R.I.P. Senator Edward Kennedy

Aug 26, 09 R.I.P. Senator Edward Kennedy

Posted by in News

STR wishes to mark the passing of one of the most illustrious senators in American history.  Mr. Kennedy lived a life dedicated to public service and making the lives of his fellow citizens better.  As we mourn his passing, his presence in American politics will be deeply missed. ...

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Smart Investments Are Key To Recession Survival

Aug 26, 09 Smart Investments Are Key To Recession Survival

Posted by in Family Matters, Investing

The recent gains in the stock market have made big headlines lately.  Despite the excesses of Wall Street, the stock market has been a wealth creator for many average Americans.  Unfortunately, in the last few years, the market was clouded by irrational exuberance and needed to undergo a severe correction.  Now that our society...

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Was Cash For Clunkers Good For The Economy?

Cash For Clunkers was a federal program that subsidized car down-payments for qualified citizens.  In order to qualify, your old car must fall below certain emission standards; and you must agree to purchase a new, greener model.  Customers receive vouchers worth between $3500 and $4500 dollars.  Since its initial inception,...

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Credit Card Act of 2009

Last year, Congress passed a significant piece of legislation.  The Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act of 2009 is the first bill in many years that provides substantive new protections for consumers.  Gouged for years by a greedy and unscrupulous credit industry, Americans have watched their debt to...

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Surviving The Recession Together

Aug 25, 09 Surviving The Recession Together

Posted by in Family Matters, Soul-Survival

Surviving the recession is hard.  The statistics often obscure the human toll that massive job losses, bankruptcies, and loss of wealth has taken on very real people.  While many view these struggles as challenges to be overcome, too many succumb to the despair. The pressure of trying to deal with financial stress, especially...

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Personalize Your Finances

Aug 24, 09 Personalize Your Finances

Posted by in Budgeting, Investing, Saving

There is an age-old debate about what should be the greater priority, saving money or using it to pay down debt.  Saving, including creating a three-month emergence fund, funding 401ks, IRAs, or traditional savings accounts, will help you prepare for the future and any unforeseen occurrences.  However, debt, which includes credit...

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