the recession diaries

There’s a tragic irony in a recession writer falling victim to the recession. Such is the unfortunate reality for Lou Carlozo, a 20-year veteran of the newspaper industry who found himself on the chopping block this week when the Chicago Tribune announced it would cut 53 editorial staff writers. That’s about 11 percent of its…

By now I imagine you all have realized that I feel a certain type of way about the rising costs of a college education and the limited funding options available to students. Well The College Board released a report this week that cites a need for federal legislation that would open up in-state college tuition,…

Do you have too much self-respect to hit the stroll? Are you too lazy to get in shape for the poles? Do you hate retail way too much to ever consider folding clothes at the Gap? If any of those apply to you fret not: You’re not completely out of options to earn extra cash.…

I’ve always dreamed of scoring a book deal. Growing up I studied each and every magazine writer that I admired and their respective path toward becoming a published author. Although the thought of having my own piece of work on bookshelves was motivation in itself, I also looked to netting a book deal as a…

When in predominantly low-income neighborhoods, chances are you’ll find a number of EZ Loan stores offering you “quick cash” that usually results in long-term paybacks. These loan services are known to target members of the black and brown brigade. I don’t know about any of you, but I would rather start practicing for my audition…

When I asked for parents to write me and share details on how the economy has affected the way they spend money on their kids, I was expecting someone to say they bought their child some Osh Kosh overalls and sent them to earn their Hamburger Helper.  I guess that letter is still on the…

Am I the only noticing an influx of pregnant women? I see at least two a day, and my reaction is usually the same: Babies aren’t recession-friendly. Yes, they’re cute, lovable and a gift from God. But like most gifts, they usually come with a price – one that isn’t cheap. If you don’t believe…

By the end of college I learned some valuable life lessons. One of the most important is that coupons are your friend; the grocery store is your frenemy. Another would be the benefits of peanut butter and ground meat when your wallet seems like it’s becoming bulimic. And thanks to my student loans, I’ve become…

Be honest: If your boss prompted you to jump in order to keep your job, how soon would it take you to leap into the air as if your shoes double as a trampoline?  For those fortunate enough to still have their jobs, many have decided to fall in line and be on their best…

Although written light heartedly, I wrote the “Cheer Up!” entry because I’m concerned about how the current economic climate is hurting the mental health of Americans. Recent studies suggest that more than 80 percent of Americans are stressed out by financial issues. In Britain, the government is offering free therapy to victims of the global…