Thursday, April 15, 2010

Futile Frugality

I'm starting to feel foolish about being a saver.











Writing isn't a big-bucks pursuit, but I've managed to support a decent lifestyle and sock away at least 10 percent of my gross income every year of my professional life.

My reward for this fiscal discipline? 1% interest. Inflation ran at 2.63% during 2009. 

Soon banks will be asking me to pay for the privilege of storing funds they can lend out at much higher interest rates. Where's the incentive to save? We're all aware that the financial crisis has hit over-leveraged customers. But what's not discussed is how those who eschew debt are paying dearly for doing the "right" thing.

Back in 2000, the average 6-month CD paid 6.5% interest while inflation was at 3.7%. This seems to my non-mathematical mind to be a golden ratio of sorts. I'm not suggesting we go back to, say, the rotten early 80s when a CD could pull 15.77% and inflation was 8.4%. But come on, bankers. Give a girl a reason to keep feeding the piggy.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Public Servant Whose Salary I'm Pleased to Pay

Robert J. Freeman is, appropriately enough, the man to see when looking to free government information from reluctant agencies.

As executive director of the Committee on Open Government, Freeman advises journalists and other interested citizens on the laws and procedures for accessing government records in New York.

I called him to discuss a criminal case that's currently "under seal." He had the answers I sought [though not the news I wanted to hear.]

Contact the good people at COOG if you're feeling foiled by FOIL matters. They know best how to negotiate bureaucratic minefields and access information to which we are all entitled.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Crazy Busy Beautiful Available Now

Busy ladies, have we got a sassy beauty book for you.

Kitchen Table Productions [Carmindy, Sarah Burningham, Jay Sternberg and yours truly] put together the best, budget-friendly beauty tips for gals who want to glow on the go.

You'll find answers to your most vexing makeup questions [Can a nervous Nelly handle liquid eyeliner? Yes.]

You'll chuckle at Carmindy's advice on tackling "The Nasties" e.g. zits, hangovers and, oh yeah, passion rash from necking with bearded boys.

You'll learn simple ways to update your usual looks, and come away with some wacky tips from ladies across the USA. Who knew Elmer's Glue worked as a pore strip?

Indulge in some girly fun! Order here for only $9.35!