I read with interest the latest numbers from GM and Ford.  The term of burning money was used when describing just how much was used in retooling for newer fuel efficient cars.  Now the two companies are in Washington, again with their hands out looking for another "taxpayer" gift.  Asking the same taxpayer, who can't afford to purchase one of these new cars or can't get a loan from banks who are still hoarding  (700 billion bailout) of taxpayer money.

The Holiday Season is at our doorstep and many of us are facing tough economic times. Here's a tough one: Would you – should you – lend money to a family member or friend in need? Parents are often asked to be "bankers" for a loan to a family member who may need some bucks to get through a period of unemployment, or maybe to make a down payment on a home.
Whatever your reaction to such a request for financial assistance
DON'T LET YOUR HEART OVERRULE BASIC GOOD SENSE. Get some necessary protection.
We're not saying don't lend the money if you can, but we are saying consider what you are doing before you make the final decision. We've all lost count of how many family loans have gone very bad!

With Election Day exactly one week ago, the Nation can sit back and take a break, and what a ride it was.  There is one person who can't do that and who hasn't,  President elect Obama.  He now faces challenges that no other President has had to face.  A sinking economy not only in this country but other countries around the world, many who are blaming the US for their problems.  The biggest problem he is facing is a Nation that is expecting him to solve all these problems, and quickly.

I know, the latest survey about "last pleasures to give up in a recession" overwhelmingly claims tobacco, alcohol and going to the movies. But think about it: Take your last puff. Depending on the wallop packed by the “sin taxes” where you live, you could save more than $2,000 a year if you go from being a pack-a-day smoker to a non-smoker. You’ll also qualify for significantly cheaper life and medical-insurance rates after you quit. And imagine, you don't have to write it once again on your list of failed New Year's Resolutions.

If you want to find hundreds of great saving tips and ideas, go to www.paragoexports.com and check out the series of e-books with tips collected from ideas from every corner of the globe.

At a time when the average consumer on the street is looking for a bit of good news, the Fed offered a little this past week.  Rates are now at 6.20 percent for the week ending November 6th.; down from 6.46 percent last week.  The reason for this reduction is due to the fact that there were new indications of a pullback in consumer spending and a weaker job market.

The answer to why your government is footing the bill for the wedding of Chrysler and GM, both ancient corporate dinosaurs with mountains of losses, might just surprise you.  Here’s a few reasons from a very astute investment advisor, Charles Delvalle from Agora Publishing, that might make you look at the US economy and our government's involvement with it in a new frightening way.
 Here are some of the more compelling reasons……….