“Recession is Coming!” “Recession is Here!” “Are we in a Recession Yet?”
I’m sure you’ve seen and heard headlines just like this.
So, exactly what is a Recession?
A Recession means that a country’s GNP (Gross National Product) drops at least 2 quarters in a row – 6 months of shrinking. Unfortunately, we only know that we are in a recession after the 2 quarters are over and all the data has been gathered and reported in the media.
Regardless of whether the US economy is in a Recession, your family may be in …

1. Pay off high-cost debt. The best investment most borrowers can make is to pay off consumer debt with double-digit interest rates. For example, if you have a $3,000 credit card balance at 19.8%, and you pay the required minimum balance of 2% of the balance or $15, whichever is greater, it will take 39 years to pay off the loan. And you will pay more than $10,000 in interest charges.
2. Buy a home and pay off the mortgage before you retire. The largest asset of most middle-income families is …

Between wonderful vacationing in Northern California and celebrating my parents’ 55th Wedding Anniversary and 75th Birthdays, watching the Olympics (and helping people “Go For The Gold!”) and Back to School, I can’t believe it’s already the 3rd week in September.
How about you? The long drive to California and my parent’s party gave me a chance to reflect on what my parents taught me about money and finance…
Mom and Dad were Depression babies who grew up in blue collar families. My Dad (#2 of 6 kids) was the first one to …

Almost daily, you hear news reports about the increasing numbers of homes in foreclosure. What you don’t hear reported is how increasing energy costs are so often the cause of this devastating problem.
Are you losing your home because you can’t afford to pay your energy bills and your mortgage? If you aren’t facing foreclosure can you afford temperature settings that keep you feeling comfortable inside your home?
During the recent U.S. housing boom, builders completed homes quickly. Interest rates were low and investors eager to cash in on high …

Come play a fast-paced, fun game while discovering your Money Habitudes. If you only have negative feelings and thoughts about money, this is the game for you! Come by yourself or bring a friend/spouse. You’ll never think about money the same way again!
October 7, 2008 from 6:30 – 8:30
Hood River Middle School Room 119
Limit 12     Cost: $29
Contact Community Education at 541-386-2055 for registration