The holiday season is over. Holiday shopping and the effects of the poor economy have emptied wallets. At times like this, you need some entertainment. But can you afford it? You still have year-round shopping needs. What’s the best way to save money? This report offers tips to help you enjoy good times and good shopping at reasonable and reduced costs.
Saving on Entertainment
When the budget is tight, many people cut back on entertainment. But let the good times roll with these tips to save on books, DVDs, movie tickets, dining, and more.
Avoiding "Loan" Schemes and Other "Services" Risky to Your Financial Well-being
December 2008
Economic hard times, such as the nation is now experiencing, bring out the schemes and scams that aim to make a buck on people who may be feeling pressure financially and who are unwary. In the last few weeks, I have seen dozens of ads and email solicitations for “opportunities” that could wreck an already stressed budget. So this month’s report details 1) some schemes and scams to always avoid and 2) some services that may be helpful in certain circumstances but that you must choose wisely how to use.
Get this scenario: you, a college student who has discovered the luxury of 10 Ramen Noodle cups for only a buck, are approached by a young man dressed-for-success at the local JCrew.
He begins by asking you questions like where you go to school, what you’re studying and what do you want to do with your life. He then tells you a little bit about himself—he says he’s an entrepreneur who’s been quite successful and would like you to come in for a meeting to see if you could become ‘one of them.’