Charla Nash appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show on November 11th, to

From Wikimedia Commons

update the world on her status almost 9 months after being the victim of a horrific mauling by a chimpanzee.  She is blind, cannot eat solid food, and lives at the Cleveland Clinic, the esteemed hospital where the first face transplant was carried out on American soil.  It takes a very brave person to want to appear on TV in that state.  In the wake of the attack, her family has set up a trust fund, where people may donate quick cash to help pay her medical expenses and support her in general.

A real “animal lover” desires preservation of habitats, not a pet

There seems to be a real sick fascination with having certain animals as “pets.” For instance, lions, tigers, bears (oh my! – how am I not supposed to make that joke?) and chimpanzees.  Elvis had a pet chimp, so did Michael Jackson.  (Both animals, Scatter and Bubbles, respectively, had to be gotten rid of after they grew violent, by the way.)  They are a popular fixture on television, and some people will event rent a chimpanzee for parties.  Let me assure you, they are not an animal you want around either you or your children, at all.  Perhaps the foremost expert on chimpanzee behavior, Jane Goodall, posted this opinion piece in the wake of the incident.

Here comes some learning

Despite what you see on TV, in magazines, or movies starring a former President they aren’t cute, cuddly, and safe.  (Well, they can be in infancy.  Once they get a bit older – not so much.)  An adult chimp can stand over 5 feet tall, and weigh up to 150 pounds.  They are 5 times stronger than the average human.   Furthermore, chimpanzees are territorial and can be very aggressive in the wild.  They have, and this is documented, killed human infants.  (One of Jane Goodall’s subjects did just that in Africa – a 14 month old baby.)  They carry out what amounts to tribal warfare, and males will kill infants in order to mate with the mother.  Goodall herself was almost beaten to death, and Far Side cartoonist Gary Larson, visiting the preserve where Goodall did her field studies, was also attacked and injured. They do live in troops, so the life of a chimpanzee isn’t necessarily solitary, but is nasty, cruel, brutish, and short.  Oh, and might we also mention AIDS and the Ebola virus?

At what point should it stop?

People and wild animals don’t mix very well, period.  Stick to a normal pet, like dogs, cats, the smaller and more manageable (and non-venomous) reptiles, birds, and fish, people.  Charla Nash will never see again, as her eyes had to be removed due to infection, and she wears a veil around the hospital she lives in.  She’s a brave and strong woman.  People are inclined to ask why it happened – was Travis infected with rabies?  He was negative for rabies – he just did what was in his nature, as a chimpanzee.  They aren’t pets.  They are wild animals, capable of killing a full grown person with ease.  Get some quick cash for a rabbit instead.

Get payday loans with no collateral

If you think secured loans are the only way to get quick cash and that you have to put your personal property in jeopardy to get a loan, have I got good news for you! You can get payday loans and installment loans online with no down payment and no collateral.

Payday lenders charge a simple, one-time fee that’s due at the time your loan is due. Plan to pay back your loan and lender’s fee when you get your next paycheck, and you’re on the road to financial stability. You don’t have to risk losing an expensive possession, and online payday loans are much more convenient than secured loans.

Secured loans versus online payday loans

Usually, taking out a secured loan means you have to go to a pawn shop and exchange something that belongs to you for quick cash. Another form of secured loan is a car title loan, which gives the lender the right to take your vehicle if you don’t pay back your loan on time.

Pawn shops usually give out loans with 90-day terms, but they charge fees every month. Payday lenders give you quick cash that you agree to pay back when you get your next paycheck — usually two to four weeks. You don’t have to have an expensive item to put up for collateral. With pawn shops, you have to be able to show up to the store during business hours to pay back your loan in person and retrieve your item.

The entire payday loan process can be completed online. You can fill out your application, have your money electronically transferred to your account and pay back your loan electronically, too.

How soon can I get a payday loan?

If you start your payday loan application now, you could have cash in your bank account in as little as two hours. It takes only minutes to fill out the application and find out if you are approved. There are no credit checks, so once your application is approved, you just need to accept the loan terms.

If you need quick cash but don’t have collateral to get secured loans or don’t want to leave your valuable items in a pawn shop, START YOUR APPLICATION NOW.

From Wikimedia Commons

In case you missed the last article written on this site on this subject, there was a Larry Johnson petition being circulated by fans to get him dismissed from the team, because they didn’t want him occupying Kansas City Chiefs record books or mentioned in the same sentence with Priest Holmes, and didn’t want any more quick cash spent on him.  They got their wish.  The running back (2.7 yards per carry this season – the second worst in the league) constantly feuded with management, hit women, etc., has been declared the weakest link, and summarily given the boot.

Larry Johnson won’t pass go, and won’t collect $200

Well, check that – he still is guaranteed wages by contract.  He is expected to clear waivers, and might be picked up by another team.  However, he has probably seen his last pay day with the Chiefs.  To be fair, he was a two time Pro Bowler and a first round pick out of Penn State.  From 2004 to 2007, he was one of the best running backs in the NFL for 3 seasons, appearing in 2 Pro Bowls.  It turns out he is actually a very talented player, but perhaps star power went to his head.

Suspension due to making bigoted remarks

Johnson used homophobic slurs on his Twitter account and also to reporters, and had reportedly had a negative impact in the locker room, along with a Twitter fueled feud with the head coach.  (Granted, the 1-7 record of the Chiefs this year might have something to do with that.)  During his two week suspension for conduct unbecoming, the Chiefs decided to give him his walking papers.  He will collect over $4 million, as part of his contract guarantees it in the event of a release.

But wherever shall he go?

There’s already a rumored destination for him – Washington D.C.  Not as a member of Congress (although he’d probably fit right in with that nefarious cabal of miscreants), but instead to the Redskins.  The Washington Redskins are currently in need of a running back.  (They also need to win a game.)  Clinton Portis is currently sidelined with a concussion.  Jim Zorn hasn’t commented except to say that he’s going to have to think about it.  (Read more about the possible move to the Redskins here.)

What happens now?

Well, the season is just about half over.  The Kansas City Chiefs are in a rebuilding period, as are the Redskins (if that’s where he goes), but he might return to winning ways if paired with the right team.  That said, players that feud with management constantly tend to not last long, wherever they go.  (To be fair, that goes both ways – some management is awful to players.  The following names might be mentioned: Ken Stabler, Marcus Allen, and Joe Montana.)  The news that the Chiefs had Larry Johnson released might shock a few people that a good RB might be let go of by a losing team, but perhaps a cash advance might be better spent building a new team from the ashes.

Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gamerscore/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

Raquel Houghton is making headlines today and it’s not because she was Dane Cook’s girlfriend for several long years. It’s because she’s kicking things up a notch and working hard to be the next American Idol.

Interestingly, Houghton is not a stranger to Hollywood. Apparently, the 28-year-old beauty reportedly earned some quick cash and recognition for her television commercial appearances for “Trollz”, “The Power Girls”, and a couple others. Houghton lives in Los Angeles and works as a bartender and a waitress.

Raquel Houghton, Dane Cook

Raquel Houghton and comedian Dane Cook were first spotted together at the 2006 premiere of the movie ‘Employee of the Month,’ starring Dane Cook with Jessica Simpson and Dax Shepard. Dane was quoted as saying, “We’ve been invited to other functions, but this is our first event of this caliber. This is my baby. ..[She is] independent and funny – two things I like in a woman.”

Dane Cook is not only a brilliant comedian, but he makes quite a decent actor as well. Some of my favorite Dane Cook movies include: ‘My Best Friend’s Girl,’ ‘Good Luck Chuck,’ and ‘Dan in Real Life.’

Raquel Houghton – The Next Big Thing?

I’m not sure how well the girl can sing. From what I’ve been able to dig up, she is the lead singer of a band called “The Valli Girls.” I haven’t had the chance to listen to any of her cuts, but the group’s MySpace profile says:

Raquel Houghton is our fearless lead singer who always brings the funk when we’re jamming. Plus she has the best reflexes of anyone in the Valley.

Houghton sang “Son of a Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield during her audition for American Idol. I’ve been looking all over YouTube for a video of her singing, but so far I haven’t stumbled upon any luck. Nonetheless, I wish Raquel Houghton the best of luck and success in the world.

Leo and Lucille Frank during his trial, 1915 (Photo from Wikimedia.org)

Tonight showcases a very contradicting documentary about the case of Leo Frank, and you won’t need quick cash to see it. The documentary will be aired tonight on PBS.

Leo Frank was a Cornell-educated Jewish industrialist who was lynched in Georgia for the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan, who worked at Frank’s factory. Frank was convicted of the crime and was initially sentenced to death.

Frank fought hard for his innocence. The conviction was appealed 13 times, losing each time, and made it all the way to Supreme Court. Georgia Gov. John Slaton, however, eventually reduced his sentence to life imprisonment. The decision only fueled the scorching anger and hate in the heart and mind of the people. According to the Los Angeles Times, a mob organized by a Superior Court judge, the son of a U.S. senator and a former governor took matters into their own hands. They abducted Leo Frank from a state prison and hanged him from an oak tree.

Leo Frank Lynching Story Lives On

Up till this day, the story of Leo Frank lives on. People are still fascinated by this story for many reasons. The case itself remains a puzzling mystery. There was no solid evidence that Leo Frank was the person responsible for the death of the 13-year-old girl that was found in the basement of the National Pencil Company 96 years ago. From what it looks like, the ruling judgment and the lynching of Leo Frank were based on vague understanding and direct assumption. Nevertheless, it’s quite obvious that prejudice and discrimination played a huge part in this case.

PBS Documentary: The People v. Leo Frank

“The People vs. Leo Frank” will air tonight at 10 p.m. ET on PBS. The documentary will include commentary, recollections, and archival images. Almost a century after the lynching of Leo Frank, his story still burns and continues to command attention from the general populace.

Related Video:

It can take years to save money for your child's college education (photo: flickr.com)

While 529 education savings plans can’t really promise quick cash for college, in recent years they’ve gained prominence as an effective way for parents to provide for the future higher education expenses of their children. A 529 education savings plan is a tax-deferred investment, similar to an Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA), except that the qualified withdrawals are related to higher education expenses as opposed to retirement.

Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code sanctions two types of educational plans: prepaid and savings. The prepaid plans allow participants to buy credits for future, public, in-state education at present-day prices. The savings plans, like many standard investments, are basically mutual-fund investments and are tied to market performance.

2008 stock market crash

Because they’re subject to market trends, 529 savings plans were severely eroded in the crash of 2008, with many of them losing more than ten percent of their value almost overnight. Not surprisingly, the investors who suffered these losses have been reconsidering the wisdom and value of maintaining 529 savings plans.

State offers vs. private offers

529 education savings plans are administered by individual states rather than the federal government, although they may be bought and sold – or re-sold – across state lines throughout the country. This has led to two distinct markets for 529 savings plans: those issued by the state directly and those offered privately by brokers and financial planners.

Private offers

The plans sold by brokers and planners were particularly hard hit in 2008 because many of them were invested aggressively and included a number of additional fees and costs that were added on in the re-sale market. Additionally, the brokers and planners who offer re-sale plans almost always retain the incentives paid by the issuing state. Unless you intend to contribute a lot of money quickly and require a very aggressive investment strategy, these re-sale 529 plans are probably not a good idea.

State offers

Many of the state plans fared better in the 2008 crash than private plans did. In part this was because the state plans were invested more conservatively. But their better performance was also related to their overall expense and state-incentive structure. Many states offer their 529 plans at extremely low rates and also provide the additional incentive of state income-tax credits or deductions. Some state 529 savings plans are tied to offers made by state university systems as well, which provides an additional incentive.

Overall benefits of 529 savings plans

As is the case with a Roth IRA, contributions to 529 savings plans are not deducted from your federal taxes, although they may be deducted from your state income taxes. However, distributions for qualified education expenses are tax-free and earnings within the plan are tax-deferred, even if they are not ultimately applied to qualified education expenses. Coupled with the easy “hands-off” nature of the plans and the maintenance of parental control, 529 plans really can’t be beat as a way to save for your child’s future college expenses.

Should you keep your 529 education savings plan?

Even if you lost a lot of money in the 2008 crash and are now hoping for quick cash to regain your financial footing, maintaining a 529 savings plan for your child’s college education is still a good idea. If your plan was purchased through a broker or planner, you should probably have it transferred to a 529 plan offered directly by your state. Even if you live in one of the few states that do not offer tax incentives, the lower administration costs and more conservative investment strategy will make the transfer worth the effort.

Do you think the tax credit will stimulate home sales?

A Senate committee on Wednesday reached an agreement regarding the first time home buyer tax credit. If they have their way, the first time home buyer tax credit wouldn’t be just for first-time home buyers anymore.

If lawmakers approve, the tax credit will be extended to people who have owned and lived in their houses for at least five years. Also, the credit was set to expire Nov. 30, but the proposal will extend it to April 2010.

Details on first time home buyer tax credit

I don’t know what they are going to call the first time home buyer  tax credit once it’s not for first time home buyers anymore, but I do know that the credit will change from the original $8,000 to $6,500. Obviously, the first time home buyer tax credit does not put quick cash in the hands of people making the biggest purchase of their lives, but it does give them a $6,500 discount on what they owe the federal government.

So, potentially, if an individual or couple pays their taxes in full, they could get a check for $6,500 come tax time. But not just anyone. The credit will be available to couples making up to $250,000 per year or individuals who make $125,000 or less. Right now, couples making $150,00 per year or less and individuals with salaries of $75,000 or less are eligible for the first time home buyer tax credit.

My, how stimulating

So, if the Democrats on the Senate Committee who drew up this proposal have their way, the first time home buyer tax credit would be extended to a lot more people — people who make more money, people who have already owned houses, people who want to buy a house after Nov. 30. Clearly the government is attempting to stimulate the housing market, which has been and still is in a slump.

Last month, home sales in the U.S. fell to the lowest levels seen since 1982. Of course, a $6,500 tax credit is not enough to get people who were not previously considering buying to go out and sign mortgage papers. However, for those who have been thinking about it, this not-just-for-first-time home buyers tax credit might be the push that they need.

Remember the mortgage crisis

Of course, anyone who is considering buying a home should not let this first time home buyer tax credit convince them to do something risky. Remember the whole sub-prime mortgage crisis? Yeah, that was the thing that pushed us into a huge, foreclosure-filled recession. So home buyers must make sure, tax credit or not, that they do not sign up for a mortgage they cannot afford.

Your monthly mortgage payments should be no more than one-third of your income, and even that is a little much if you ask me. There is no such thing as “a good time to buy” for everyone. Whether buying a house is a smart decision depends on your financial situation, and yours alone. The price of the home and its possible value in the future doesn’t matter as much as whether  you can realistically afford your house payments.

Scammers at  every turn

It remains to be seen whether this new version of the so-called first time home buyer tax credit will pass. Many critics have pointed out that a lot of people scammed the government out of $8,000 when they were ineligible for the tax credit.

Some people scammed the government by getting the credit even though they were not purchasing their first home. The new version of the tax credit would deem this a non-problem. Trouble is a lot of people pulled off getting the tax credit without purchasing homes. That scam is one that hurts fellow taxpayers because it does not stimulate home sales, and it does bilk the government out of much-needed funds.

Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/compujeramey/ / CC BY 2.0

No matter how far you go or how much quick cash you have access to, the importance of the responsible use of money remains the same. The more money you make doesn’t necessarily mean you’re the next Bill Gates. As a matter of fact, the more money you have, the greater your responsibilities become. Let’s consider the story of Antoine Walker for a moment.

Antoine Walker in Need of Credit Repair

Former Celtic star Antoine Walker had it all; fancy cars, dazzling jewels, beautiful houses and, of course, the pricey life of gambling. He lived amongst the all-stars and Hall-of-Famers of the world. With all the money in the world at hand, you would never have thought someone like him would be in desperate need of a credit repair. The truth is, however, Antoine Walker is broke.

According to the Boston Globe, Walker was taken into custody in July for writing almost a dozen bad checks for casino markers in Las Vegas. The total amount added up to a whopping $1 million. Walker was able to pay off only a small percentage of that debt before charges were filed, leaving the total amount owed, including court costs, at $905,050.

Antoine Walker also owes an enormous amount of quick cash to several financial institutes. Boston Globe reports that Walker owes J.P. Morgan Chase Bank $1.5 million, American Express $53,000, and $1.5 million to Wachovia. He also owes his former agent almost half a million dollars in unpaid fees.

According to the report, Antoine Walker, 33, is facing three felony counts for drawing and passing checks without sufficient funds with intent to defraud. He could face up to 4 years in prison for each of the charges.

Another Lesson Learned

The story of Antoine Walker provides a very good lesson and reminder for all of us. Money is both a blessing and a curse. It all depends on how well you manage your finances. If you need quick cash, you’re in the right place for it. Just remember to add it to your budget and manage your money wisely.

Tom Cruise, famous Scientologist. Image from Flickr.

The French government has never recognized the Church of Scientology as a religion. It has always viewed it as a “sect” or simply a commercial operation. Now, after two women filed complaints against the Church of Scientology, the French court has said the Church of Scientology is guilty of fraud.

Now, several French Church of Scientology leaders and two branches of operation in France have been fined. Prosecutors also asked that the Church of Scientology operations in France be dissolved.

Church of Scientology not banned … yet

BBC News reports that the court stopped short of banning Church of Scientology operations from the country. However, BBC also reports that a ban on the Church of Scientology is still possible, though it does not say where it got that information. France has always taken a stance on the Church of Scientology, saying it was only out for quick cash and has never been a legitimate religion. BBC News says:

Unlike the US, France has always refused to recognize Scientology as a religion, arguing that it is a purely commercial operation designed to make as much money as it can at the expense of often vulnerable victims, the BBC’s Emma Jane Kirby reports from Paris.

Church of Scientology has more troubles

In the U.S., a Hollywood connection has yet again brought the Church of Scientology to the forefront of the media. The director of the Oscar-winning film “Crash” has left the Church of Scientology after 35 years. Paul Haggis says his reason for leaving the church  is its stance against gay marriage and its position on gay rights.

Paul Haggis wrote a letter to the Church of Scientology’s Celebrity Centre, saying he could no longer be part of an organization that tolerates “gay-bashing.” The Church of Scientology officially supported the Proposition 8 ban in California, which made it illegal for same-sex couple to marry after the supreme court declared it legal.

Who will end up at Bryant Park this year? Image from Flickr.

On “Project Runway” season 6, episode 9, the designers were instructed to design an outfit inspired by a place, such as New York, Greece, St. Tropez, etc. They got $300 in quick cash to get fabric and supplies. But that wasn’t the interesting part.

Since last night’s airing of “Project Runway” season 6, episode 9, there seems to be a rift developing among my friends. The two sides? Those who agree with the judges decision last night, and those who don’t. I even have one friend who says he is convinced that Tim Gunn disagrees with the judges. So what happened to create this controversy?

Personality versus talent

As much as “Project Runway” fans may want to judge the contestants based only on their clothing –  not their personalities — it just might be impossible. Michal, Heidi and Nina don’t see the sides of the designers that we see, and some viewers just care more about character than fashion. (Could that be me?)

So “Project Runway” fans seem to be splitting into two camps:

1. Those who disagree with the judges’ decision on “Project Runway” season 6, episode 9 because they eliminated a designer who was clearly more talented than the other possible loser.
2. Those who are happy with the judges decision because they like the person who they kept and hate the person who went home, even though he might be a better designer.

But first, the winner

Before I reveal who got the boot and who got saved, do you want to know who won? If not, skip this paragraph. Resident B-word Irina easily won with her Aspen-inspired outerwear, consisting of deep brown tones. Her fitted pants, fluffy sweater with an oversized cowl neck and faux fur vest wowed the judges with “fantasy” and guess judge Milla Jovovich said she wanted to be the girl in that outfit.

Gordana was runner-up with her simple gray Park Avenue dress paired with a crystal necklace/collar. Carol Hanna’s flowy Palm Beach creation came in third. Althea apparently came in fourth with her St. Tropez short-shorts, as her “scores have qualified her to move on to the next round.”

Now the reveal!

After all the sighs of relief and hugs, Nicolas, Christopher and Logan were left on the stage. Logan was told he was safe, even though his white pants, blue tank top, vest and suspenders (suspenders!?) did not invoke Hollywood at all. Michael Kors remarked, “They are clothes, not fashion.” Heidi said she didn’t mind it, and Milla said “If this was Project I Didn’t Mind It,” he would win.

At this point I’m sure you see where this is going. Fan-favorite because of his humble personality, Christopher, stood next to his supposedly Santa Fe inspired little dress with a super short skirt, somewhat bland colors, but a really cool wide belt. Then we have Nicolas, with the huge ego and the bad attitude, standing next to a bland pair of gray pants and a white, criss-cross top that didn’t quite turn out right.

Christopher versus Nicolas

As you can guess, Nicolas was sent home, and Christopher was saved, yet again. Christopher, though he is has been voted fan favorite on the Project Runway site, has been in the bottom three now three times in a row. A lot of people think he should have been sent home for last week’s booty shorts/corset atrocity.

On the other hand, everyone pretty much agrees that Nicolas is not very nice, kind of annoying and way too cocky. But this was not his third time in a row on the bottom, so eve though he did make a boring outfit, a lot of fans think he should not have gone home because his overall performance has been better than Christopher’s.

But every “Project Runway” fan knows, challenges are judged on an individual basis. So what do you think? Did the judges make the right call on “Project Runway” season 6, episode 9?

Image from Flickr.com. Coming to a small town near you - ain't that America!

The reasons aren’t clear, but the targets sure were

First World Management runs a butcher shop on the edge of town, and the meat it provides is meat that is slaughtered and butchered to Islamic dietary specifications.  Islamic dietary laws are very specific about meat, and for meat to be considered Halal (similar to Kosher) it must be procured according to a very specific set of rules, or dhabiha.  The shop in question slaughters and butchers dhabiha meat for consumers, most of which are in Chicago.  There are only a few employees, all Muslims – less than 10, most of which live in trailers behind the shop.

Over a dozen FBI vehicles, snipers and a helicopter…and no arrests!

Nearly 100 FBI personnel descended on this location on Sunday, October 18th, and no arrests were made.  (This cost taxpayers a lot more than a few payday loans worth.)  No one in the town, not even the mayor was aware anything was going to happen.  The only people who did were the Grundy County Sheriff’s Department, who were notified two weeks in advance of the incident. You can read up on the incident at Fox News, though more coverage is likely to be forthcoming.

Aren’t we supposed to NOT have secret police in this country?

It’s speculated that the raid was done in order to root out immigration violations.  However, no arrests were made, and the size of it makes it look like something beyond the scope of immigration affairs.  There was a recent terrorism arrest and plot, but if this were an anti-terror raid, why wasn’t anyone detained, and why weren’t any charges filed?  The FBI is a multi-billion dollar a year expense on the taxpayers, and it is highly dubious that they don’t have anything to do.  State intimidation is one of the things that the Founders and Framers were universally against, so this looks suspicious to say the least.

UPDATE: It wasn’t for nothing

Destroying the payday loans industry creates problems and solves nothing. Balance is needed in legislation. (Photo: wikipedia.org)

Even if you’ve never been a customer of a payday loan business, you’ve likely seen or heard about the product. You probably also know that payday loan businesses are fairly easy to find in both the brick-and-mortar world and in cyberspace. With such a proliferation, it seems obvious that there is a demand for such consumer loans. Yet for a product that millions of consumers use each year, it’s interesting that the entirely legal payday loan industry has been affixed with such a negative reputation.

Throwing Stones

The most common allegation levied against the payday lending industry is that it constitutes predatory lending, exploiting helpless consumers with high rates and other loan shark tactics. On their behalf, those who offer payday loans assert that the rates charged are appropriate to protect against risk, yet much less damaging than what consumers can encounter in fees if they don’t pay their bills or have their utilities shut off. Unfortunately, there is relatively little objective analysis that looks beyond the rhetoric of both sides of the payday lending issue. Critics adopt what they consider to be a moral high ground where they use “payday loans” and “usury” in the same sentence, while lenders defend their practice by illustrating that customers are made aware of costs before a contract is signed and by claiming that current rates are necessary in light of operating costs.

Let’s Take a Balanced Look at the Stats, Shall We?

That’s exactly what Aaron Gold does in his New York University honors thesis “Payday Lending: Grounding the Policy Debate Through Economic Analysis.” His study compares some key metrics between payday lenders (five of the largest chains, representing 25 percent of U.S. stores) and a sampling of “traditional” lenders such as banks and credit unions. In a nutshell, Gold finds that high operating expense does seem to justify the cost of payday loans. While data supports the notion that payday lenders are more profitable than traditional lenders, their profits in relation to their “break even” point aren’t as outrageous as overheated critics claim.

The Social Forces behind Payday Lending

While people from all walks of life have had the occasion to use payday loan services, averages definitely point in the direction of an upper-middle to lower class demographic. Gold cites the M.S. Barr article “Banking the Poor” in the Yale Journal on Regulation. Barr suggests that an increasing number of Americans are “under-banked” (Barr, 2004, p. 2). “Real or perceived costs and fees of maintaining traditional banking services,” suggests Barr, are simply too much of a hurdle for scores of people to clear. Considering the shenanigans of financial institutions that steered America toward the current recession, such skepticism is no surprise. Douglas McGray writes in an article entitled “Check Cashers, Redeemed” that lower income consumers and (anecdotally) some segments of immigrant communities tend to disdain the system of traditional banking and credit. Furthermore, he alludes to public relations efforts made by payday lenders in their communities (such as employing local, multi-lingual people). Thus, payday loan stores serve as comfortable, convenient one-stop shopping for those in need of quick cash during an emergency.

Payday Loans Are For Consumers with Steady Income

It is simply untrue that payday loan companies prey upon people who don’t have the money to repay. Only those with a verified steady income are eligible, a safety measure for both the consumer and the lender. An analogy Huckstep uses in his important study “Payday Lending: Do Outrageous Prices Necessarily Mean Outrageous Profits?” is that payday loans are like a financial taxi: “Expensive for long trips, but perfectly viable for short distances” (Huckstep, 2007, p. 207). Used properly, payday loans can save consumers a great deal of money over more catastrophic alternatives. This is a fact that reputable payday lending businesses stress to consumers through their literature and service counseling.

But Are Payday Loans Too Expensive?

That’s what critics say, and the key defensive position has been that high risk justifies the price. Gold points to the 2005 FDIC study by Flannery and Samolyk “Payday Lending: Do the Costs Justify the Price?” in support of the defense, but Huckstep counters that “while loan losses may be high… that seems to be a trait of the lending industry generally, rather than a unique trait of payday lending institutions” (Huckstep, 2007, p. 230). Looking at said charge-off rates, Gold finds the ratios (dividing yearly charge-offs by the amount of originated loans during that period) between payday lenders and traditional lenders to be rather similar, and very much in keeping with overall Fed averages. In fact, the average for payday loan default is shown in Huckstep’s study to be below those of credit cards. This suggests that consumers are indeed able to handle their payday loans when compared with other kinds of consumer lending.

Do Payday Lenders Reap “Obscene” Profits?

Overall, multiple sources confirm the truth that payday lenders have enjoyed greater profits in recent years than traditional lenders based upon similar products. But Gold would have us understand that from 2006 to 2008, the profit margin above the “break even” point for the major payday loan companies decreased dramatically. There are numerous reasons for this, but Gold intimates that a lack of growth opportunities within the payday lending industry may have something to do with it. Whether this is because the industry has become overgrown and needs pruning or overzealous regulation has hamstrung businesses in too many states is debatable.

From the standpoint of the numbers, loan volume is considered to be the key to payday loan store profitability (rather than exorbitant rates). Growth and competition have a definite impact upon loan volume on a per store basis. Gold believes that consumers are attracted to payday loan locations primarily because of convenience, so expansion of store locations and operating hours are necessary to compete. However, venturing beyond a saturation point may actually decrease profits.

Good Return on Assets and Equity

Payday loan business, according to Gold’s findings, produce a greater return on assets (ROA; the ratio of operating income to average assets), which indicates that they are more efficient at what they do than banks and credit unions that offer similar products. Considering that payday loan companies tend to have a relatively small number of physical assets when compared with big traditional lenders, the payday lenders experience much less loan turnover and require much less operating capital in order to produce positive returns.

Does this mean that shareholders of payday loan companies are making a killing? Relative to traditional lenders, the equity tale of the tape says no. Gold finds that from 2004 through 2006, payday loans originators and traditional lenders were basically dead even. By 2008, however, the subprime mortgage crisis sent traditional lenders plummeting. Payday lenders readily took up the slack of consumer demand and posted a much more positive return on equity.

Scale Down, Payday Lenders?

Gold appears to lean toward the idea that if “store density is a function of price, then a reduction in density would increase loan volume and profit at remaining stores.” In such an instance, payday lenders could conceivably charge less and still collect a decent profit. A reduction in competition would then help consumers.

Payday loans could continue to satisfy consumer demand, provided the constant attack mentality of legislators (who no doubt receive sizable campaign contributions from traditional lenders). Some regulation is beneficial (since there are lenders with room in their profit margins to decrease price), but a 50 to 75 percent reduction in APR will only serve to put legal businesses down and increase unemployment. Cooler heads must prevail. As Gold puts it,

For real progress to be made toward finding an equilibrium that works for all involved in the payday debate, interested parties need to move away from inflammatory rhetoric and legislation that views the industry in binary terms. They must move toward defining acceptable interest rates and profit margins and take cautioned steps to satisfy the credit demand in an economically sustainable way.

Follow the Numbers

In America’s recessionary economy, sustainability is a highly desirable goal. Payday loans are here to stay. When will legislators admit that and work toward economic harmony?

If you could use Payday Loans, please apply here

You know they call them killer whales
But you seem surprised
When it pinned you down to the bottom of the tank
Where you can’t turn around
It took half your leg and both your lungs
- Neko Case, “People Gotta Lot of Nerve”

Ross Township, PA isn’t far north of the “Steel City” of Pittsburgh. It isn’t the “New Frontier.” The vast majority of pet owners there are perfectly content with dogs, cats, fish, gerbils and reptile variants. Black bears are an uncommon pet choice, to say the least. Most people would need quick cash in order to keep up with feedings alone. Yet Kelly Ann Walz kept one in a steel and concrete cage near her residence. Now both owner and her 350-pound black bear are dead (see http://www.mcall.com/news/police/all-a7_5bear.7043692oct05,0,3099677.story).

Kelly Ann Walz Was Mauled While Cleaning the Cage

Walz, 37, was cleaning her “pet” bear’s 15-by-15 foot cage when law enforcement say it “turned on her.” Apparently the cleaning routine was that she would throw a shovelful of dog food to the opposite side of the cage, which distracted the bear and gave Kelly Ann Walz time to clean. This time, it didn’t work. Things can turn on a dime in the blink of an eye.

A Wild Animal Will Not Play Our Game For Long

As these cases always go, the black bear was shot and killed after it turned on Kelly Ann Walz. As if the bear were suddenly tainted in human eyes because it acted instinctually. Yet you can be certain that taking it into captivity and “taming” it had made it impossible to return to the wild. It’s always the prerogative of human beings, isn’t it? They have the ability to obtain quick cash and believe in old books, so they think they have dominion over the animals.

Kelly Ann Walz had Owned the Bear Since 2000

It so happens that she also owned a Bengal tiger and an African lion. All problems just waiting to happen, I guarantee you. If a wild animal is kept in a very well-equipped zoo or wildlife refuge, then perhaps their health, behavioral and psychological needs can be met. But keeping them at a private residence? It’s simply too much to ask of both the person and the animal. Even Siegfried & Roy were unable to escape incident with one of their tigers.

Suppress that “Saving” Impulse

Wild animals cannot be saved by private residents. For whatever good intent she had, Kelly Ann Walz was not saving her black bear, tiger or lion. Regardless of whether they came from the wild or from a zoo, she was not equipped to handle them safely and provide what they needed. Authorities believe the animals were licensed with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, but that doesn’t mean that Kelly Ann Walz was equipped to handle them. She may have needed more quick cash to help. As I see it, such is a failing of the law that her death should have come to pass in this manner.

Ross Township, PA Mourns the Loss of Kelly Ann Walz

As do I. I also mourn the loss of the black bear, which should never have been kept at a private residence in the first place. Hopefully all of her animals will go to a properly equipped zoo or wildlife refuge than can approximate their wild habitat as closely as possible. Quick cash from a lender can only take you so far. Let a good zoo do its work.

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Why not get it right the first time when you try payday lending, credit unions? (Photo: wikipedia.org)

Payday lending has been consistently bashed by banks and credit unions that have been eager to capitalize on a legitimate market where there is real demand. The overriding desire has been to get people away from small loans and lock them into longer-term (read: longer period to compound interest), higher-dollar loans. While profitable for these large institutions, it’s wasteful for the consumer in the long run. If you need $100 to $1,500 quickly, why should you have to wait to take out a loan for a few thousand more? Why should you also have to pay interest on money you don’t need?

Some credit unions get this

They’re attempting to meet the public demand for payday lending. The Las Vegas Sun reports that Nevada Federal Credit Union has been offering a service called AdvancPay for the past few years. It took a while for it to catch on, but America’s current economic conditions have upped demand, proving that consumers are eager to take advantage of short-term loans when they’re in a financial pickle.

Nevada Federal Credit Union President Brad Beal indicated that AdvancPay is (for a non-payday lending establishment) a low cost alternative for consumers in need of quick cash. Much like those in the payday lending industry, the credit union charges an appropriate interest rate to cover the risk in the transaction. In order to keep the unjust criticism surrounding payday lending from sticking to them, Beal claims that they struggle with whether they’re “helping or hurting” consumers. It’s lip service, to be sure. Any financial organization needs to make sure they’re protected when they enter into a loan situation with a consumer. Charging appropriate interest is vital. Nevada Federal Credit Union knows that as well as any payday lending establishment.

Free financial counseling is available

Like any reputable payday lending business, Nevada FCU offers free financial counseling. Payday loans should never be used in a cyclical nature to continually supplement your bank account. Occasional use and proper budgeting techniques are optimal.

How has Nevada FCU been doing with payday lending?

For 2009, they have issued approximately 12,000 payday loans totaling about $8 million. That is an estimate based on the maximum amount allowed per loan, which Nevada FCU caps at $700. These numbers would not be too far out of step with a wide range of payday lending businesses. However, unlike reputable payday lending businesses, the credit union charges a $60 application fee, even though they don’t guarantee the applicant will receive a loan. Furthermore, they give the customer a year to pay back their loan, which is quite different than the standard two weeks payday lending businesses tend to give customers to repay their loans. Imagine how easy it would be for a customer to forget if they let their loans go full term. Imagine what penalty fees will immediately be assessed.

I’ll go with the payday lending business model

Two weeks is ideal for customers who want to keep repayment on payday loans fresh in mind. Those establishments that use post-dated checks have a built-in security measure as well. If Nevada FCU truly wants to help their customers, they would be wise to keep this in mind and perhaps follow a proven method. That way, the reported $75,000 in payday lending losses they’ve suffered in 2009 through July would likely be much less, if not in the black. Writing things off as a loss hasn’t helped the overall economy, has it?

The National Credit Union Administration supports payday lending

Done right, payday lending works for both the responsible consumer and the lending organization. Credit unions see part of the puzzle, but they are still unwilling to go all the way. This is clear in their PR efforts regarding payday lending. In a recent letter, the National Credit Union Administration claims that they can “enhance their members’ economic well-being” with products related to payday lending. They wouldn’t offer products if they weren’t financially lucrative for credit unions, so I imagine there’s been a misrepresentation of information here. Perhaps this is another way to feed a smear campaign against payday lending. It’s the “payday lending isn’t financially feasible for lenders” angle. It simply isn’t true if payday lending is done correctly.

If you’re looking for payday lending organizations who know how to help you, apply below.

Managing my money was a blur before payday loans (Photo: flickr.com)

Payday loans weren’t around when I first learned how to handle money. If they had been (and had I been eligible to apply for them), I’m sure I would have learned very quickly that in the real world you simply don’t get something for nothing.

Many of you have been in this situation before. When you were a child — and I know that you were a child at some point — you may have received an allowance each week. What an exciting time that was! All the hard work keeping up with chores, schoolwork and doing those extra-special things had finally come to fruition. Would you save all your pennies in the robot piggy bank on your dresser? Or would you run down to the local store with that fresh wad of dollar bills and spend it on that toy you’d been eyeballing for some time?

The possibilities were endless

Now, if you were like me, you were a spender. Even when you were at the store purchasing something like those new action figures, toy guns or robots, you had your eye on the next deal. Money was a fluid thing, and you saw no value in holding onto it just so that you could know that you were saving for a rainy day. Let that river run. Grab a tube, hop on and float your way toward some sort of buyers’ paradise.

Unfortunately it didn’t take much to get my parents to give me money. I was an only child, so I didn’t have to share their resources with brothers and sisters. Couple that with the fact that my father was often away from home as a requirement of his job. He felt guilty about that, and that guilt translated into a bit more of a willingness to buy me things if I needled him. Looking back, I truly am ashamed at some of the things that I did — the pouting, the kicking and screaming — but my parents also failed to take control of the situation. Thus, the lesson I learned was that if I needed money, all I had to do was come crying to mom or dad.

They’d give me something for nothing

Essentially, I could get something for nothing. I say nothing because all of the bellyaching and pleading wasn’t even worth its weight in feathers. I never had to pay mom and dad back. If I had, perhaps I would’ve learned something. If the bank of mom and dad operated the way payday loans do, it would have been quite clear that in two weeks the loan was going to be repaid. Not only that, but the fee for applying for the payday loans would’ve been spelled out up front.

But back to the spender I was then. I had no real conception of the value of money. Once I moved out of the house, had a job and had to make payments on rent and utilities, I began to understand that money didn’t exactly grow on trees or out of my father’s wallet. I was a man and I had to take care of not only myself, but my growing family. I would say that there were still occasional times when I went to my parents when I was in a desperate financial situation. They would oblige, but the weight of lessons lost became more palpable each time I rang them in search of quick cash. I knew that the ways of the past would no longer work for me as a mature person, yet old habits were hard to break.

Hiding from creditors wasn’t the answer

So I resolved to handle those little financial snafus myself. That in itself is a noble idea, but in practice all I did was dig myself a hole. Rather than budgeting better and saving more, I entered the world of credit cards. It’s a magical place at first, and I even made my payments on time regularly. But a period of unemployment and medical bills left me in a deep hole when it came to credit cards. Collections notices and calls flew fast and furious, but in my infinite wisdom I decided that I would never have to engage them in any kind of conversation. I was hiding from reality. By ignoring the problem and sending payments when I was able to, I felt that that would be enough. But since I had waited too long to speak with my creditors about forming a reasonable payment plan, they weren’t interested in my occasional payments.

I filed for bankruptcy

It was discharged a number of years ago. Since then, my spending habits have been rather different. I think more in terms of long-term goals than short-term gratification. Oh, I do splurge now and again, but it’s nowhere near as bad as it used to be. The most obvious reminder to me of the way I used to spend money is my music collection. It began in junior high and today I have several hundred compact discs to show for it. I used to spend almost everything I earned on new music.

Today, I make a budget and stick to it. I make sure that I have what I need, and more importantly, that my family has what it needs. When I get involved in anything that deals with money, I refer to my records. It’s nice that way because having documentation of your spending habits paints a very clear picture. You know where your money is going and you know what areas may be cause for concern.

With payday loans, I knew when repayment would occur

That kind of documentation has also been key in the choice I’ve made now and again to apply for payday loans. I remember when I needed to put a security deposit down on my family’s first apartment. I was earning enough money to pay the rent and take care of our other expenses, but the deposit happened to come at a difficult time. It was a very desirable apartment and I needed to put the deposit down quickly in order to secure it. Applying for payday loans to bridge that gap helped me get that brand new apartment. The terms were very easy to understand. All I had to pay was $15 for every $100 borrowed. This amounted to $345 ($300 payday loan plus $45 as the solitary fee). I knew the exact date on which the payment for my loan would be deducted from my checking account, which made it very easy to plan my budget.

If you need payday loans and would like to know where your money is going (and when), click the button to apply here.

Little dogs have big needs

One day Puppy found Al in a parking lot. It was August 26, which happens to be National Dog Day. On National Dog Day, people are supposed to say “thank you” to all the dogs by having bark-a-thons, photo contests, and picnics.

It was hot out, but Puppy was shivering because she wanted something to eat. Luckily, people are also supposed to help needy dogs on National Dog Day, so Puppy got in Al’s car and went to his house.

Dogs need things

Al gave Puppy a bowl of water and the last hot dog out of his refrigerator. Then he went upstairs to fill out a personal loan application. Al said they were going to need some quick cash to fix the place up a little now that Puppy was living there.

They were going to need a new screen door, some fence materials, a dog house for the back patio, one of those pet enclosure systems to keep Puppy out of mischief, a vet appointment, a license, and proper dog food.

Dogs need to work

But Puppy wasn’t listening to Al talk about borrowing money. The hot dog was gone and she was busy going through the garbage in her new kitchen. Al said there was a time and place for everything, and that this was the time and place for a quick payday loan. But Puppy wasn’t listening to Al talk about philosophy. She was working on the garbage in her new bathroom now.

Dogs need to go outside

Al went to the best place he knew to get emergency cash loans online. Personal Money Store was fast, but Puppy was faster. By the time Al had his easy loan wrapped up, Puppy had sorted through everything in her new laundry basket and was half-way down the block. Al came downstairs and took a quick look around at how much Puppy had done. He threw open the screen-less screen door and there she was, running down the sidewalk with a hot dog wrapper and a dirty sock in her mouth.

Dogs need to run

Puppy had gone out because she wanted something to do. When she saw Al running, she thought a race would be good. So she dropped her things on the sidewalk and took off as fast as she could.

Dogs need to dream

Little dogs have big dreams

Suddenly she was a big, red, professional racing dog with long legs and an official identification tag with her name and information on it. All her feet were off the ground. Her tail was quite big and her ears went straight back. Her mouth hung part-way open.

Dogs need attention

She was a mile off the ground and the background was a blur. Regular dogs from all around came running after her but she didn’t look at them. She just kept staring straight ahead and no one could catch her. Cars slowed down and people came out to see her run. No one could believe how fast she was.

Dogs need to be kept safe

Then Al grabbed her. He scooped her up and flipped her belly-side over, but she kept right on running, even if it was only in the air. Just as she crossed the finish line, Al said the race was over. Puppy was the winner and Al was happy, too, so they went home. Al put Puppy in the mudroom. “Wait here,” he said, “I have to go spend my cash now, but I’ll be right back,” and he closed the door. Puppy didn’t mind waiting, because Al had left the light on so she could see all the shoes lined up in a row.

Like a weight lifted from your shoulders (Photo: flickr.com)

Is a short-term financial problem weighing you down? If there were an exciting solution, would you want to discover it?

Of course. And wouldn’t you want to know where to look for that solution?

What if you could obtain installment loans while suffering from bad credit or bankruptcies? What if you could do it today, right away?

If quick cash that typically avoids time-consuming credit checks is your goal, you may want to continue reading.

Here’s a scenario

Imagine your monthly income gives you the boost you need to escape the paycheck to paycheck trap. Or to turn it around, perhaps you tighten the budgetary belt once in a while because you have periodic car repair to factor in or a larger than normal bill you know is heading your way. Another situation might entail you stockpiling money out of each paycheck for a while to brace you for holiday shopping or back-to-school deals for the kids.

What would you do in this situation?

It’s almost time for the kids to go back to school after a long, happy summer. Once you’ve purchased everything you think they’ll need for school, your bank account is crying uncle. By the time the wardrobes are updated, lunches are packed and they’re on that big yellow bus, your balance is close to running on empty. You’ll make it through, you think. But what if their teacher sends them home with a list of all new things they’ll need for class projects? If payday’s not for another week and paying for it all would send your account dangerously low, an installment loan can be a financial life-saver.

What you get with an installment loan

The installment loan is intended to help people just like you avoid the surprise financial sinkholes that can bury your budget. If you’re looking for anywhere from $100 to $1,500, enough for a problem situation, but not enough to finance a car, home or college education, a payday loan is for you. Apply now and you may receive that little bit of cash you need to tide you over between paydays. This comes without the waiting, hassle and/or negative consequences associated with applying for money from other sources. It is also much preferable to skipping utility or credit card payments.

Please use installment loans as they are intended

If you do this, this short-term consumer credit loan can put your mind at ease and send the over-inflated bill blues packing. Always try to borrow what you can afford to repay, since a payday loan is not free money. The aid of an installment, when fit into the framework of a solid long-term budget plan, can be advantageous. Again, remember that they are short-term products. If you need more long-term assistance, seek the advice of a financial planner or credit counselor.

Installment loans may be the solution to your short-term cash flow issues. Apply now by clicking the green button. A cash infusion may raise your checkbook’s spirits. If more knowledge is what you seek, stick around, because Personal Money Store is your source for consumer finance news, notes and forays into the unexpected.

Be tactical. Imagine this is you, perhaps without the gun. (Photo: commons.wikimedia.org)

We all know that it’s important to have the right tool for the job. If you need a flashlight to light the way in dark places, you want one you can rely upon. If you’re in a different kind of dark place, you may need a blunt object to fight your way out. For instance, you may find yourself trapped at the end of a dark alley, surrounded by Dick Armey’s shadowy Tea Party Patriots. Situations like that – where rational discourse is choked out by a call to violence – require that you are able to defend yourself against whatever may happen until the authorities can intervene. While Energizer certainly would never say this (and I will not put words in their mouth), I say that having a flashlight that can double as a club is infinitely useful. That’s why I thank flashlight engineers for things like the Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight.

You won’t even need unsecured loans or installment loans to buy one

However, if you do find yourself in need of some quick cash, click the big button below. It’s much easier than fighting your way out of a brawl with a flashlight.

A recent review of the Energizer MIL2AAIL (the Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight) indicates that if you did have to defend yourself, you’d have a “rocky and powerful” instrument on your side. Truly, it has been designed to be a “tactical, self-defense or general use” flashlight. It is up to any task you set before it, save for balancing your budget. For that, you need good old-fashioned brains and the willingness to be flexible when you plan. A flexible budget leaves room for life’s little surprises, things that installment loans and unsecured loans can help with if you haven’t already planned for long-term security.

Infrared night vision for tracking the most stubborn Tea Party Patriots

That’s right; the Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight (aka the Energizer LED Infrared Night Vision Flashlight and the MIL2AA1L) boasts five different kinds of light. White, Blue, Red, Infrared and Infrared Strobe light your way through darkest night. Other things that come standard on the Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight include rubber gaskets that resist water damage, a recessed switch that keeps you from lighting your torch before you’re ready to give away your position and a red signal to let people know that you’re the kind of person who will turn on the red light. Or paint a target red or blue before discharging tactical firearms… but you don’t have any of those, right?

And the white light? It’s a great way to blind someone waiting to accost you, like Republican staffers hired to protest health care reform. Ask them if they have any AA Engerizer Lithium Batteries before you take action, however. That’s what the Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight runs on, according to… well, Energizer. I’m sure other lithium batteries will work.

The rest of what you need to know

So you need a good flashlight (Photo: darkmatterpolitics.typepad.com)

Remember how I mentioned that you won’t break the bank when you go to buy one of these beautiful Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlights? It’s true! The Energizer MIL2AA1L Hardcase Tactical Flashlight is available for $19.99 with $5 shipping through sources like Woot. Depending upon your outlet, that price will vary somewhat.

Here are some more important features that you’ll need to know about on your next hunting trip or town hall excursion:

• Shatterproof lens – Because you don’t want dim bulbs when you’re being assaulted by dim bulbs
• Rubber overmold – Because you want to show mercy on the flashlight when you inevitably fling it to the ground in disgust over Obama’s flip-flop over the single-payer plan, or on assailants if you are ever in the unfortunate situation where you must defend yourself. Oh, and it won’t slip out of your sweaty palms and you fret over the future of America
• Stainless steel side guards – Because you don’t want to be too nice when your life or the finish of your Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight are at stake
• Lifetime guarantee – In case your life depends upon it
• Built-in hold-fast clip – Makes getting a grip easier, even when others refuse to do so
• Impact-resistant ABS plastic – It makes a real impression without shattering
• Lifetime push button quiet switches – Because we’ve needed a more discreet flashlight for some time now
• Sliding lock secures IR switch – Keep on tracking without losing your light
• Lanyard ring – Keep this close to your heart, please
• Weighs eight ounces when used with lithium batteries – Be quick when you need to be
• Survives 20-foot drop – But they won’t get the drop on you
• Rotating 125-degree swivel head – Be more flexible with your lighting requirements
• Steel clip for hands free use – You’ll need those hands at the ready if you’re a man of action

Life, illuminated

The Energizer Hardcase Tactical Flashlight is military grade, so it should be good enough for you. And at $19.99, it’s affordable. Installment loans and unsecured loans are not required, but are around if you need them. Go stun something threatening you (or avoid being stunned) today!

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Hope those jammies are flame retardant, because these Wii remote rechargers get HOT - hence the recall (Photo: flickr.com)

I’m a big video gaming fan, and I think that the Nintendo Wii is a marvelous invention. While the overall stock of games for the Wii may not be to my particular liking, I cannot deny that the Wii has bridged the gap better than any other console gaming system in recent memory. People who would not normally be playing video games enjoy the Wii for its innovative control system. I’d almost go get quick cash from short term loans to buy one, but I have more important things to spend my money on right now. As much as I’d love to, I’ll take a pass.

Which is exactly what the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is doing on a couple of 4-Dock Battery Recharge Stations. There is a Wii recall in effect for two of the more popular recharger units, as they can cause burns or even start fires.

Which ones will burn me in this Wii recall?

PC World reports that you should unplug your Wii 4-Dock Battery Recharge Station if you own one. Specifically, the Psyclone Essentials and React Wii 4-Dock Battery Recharge Stations are the hot items in question. They were distributed by Griffin International Cos., Inc., of Minneapolis, Minn. The former unit was sold at Amazon.com, Target, and Toys R Us; the latter came from Best Buy. They cost around $50 each and were sold between January 2008 and July 2009.

What’s the problem?

Nearly 220,000 recharger units are being pulled off the shelves because they can overheat to the extent that skin burns and fires are a risk. There have been multiple reports of minor hand burns from the recharging units. Commercial rights prevent me from posting an image of the exact device, but you can see them in the PC World report above. They’re white and have four recharger slots for Wii remotes. The device is a white docking station with four recharging stations and a rechargeable battery pack.

Do you own one of these devices?

Look for the brand names “Psyclone” or “React” on the front of the charger. Even turn the product upside down so you can view the underside if you aren’t completely sure. If the model numbers PSE6501 (Psyclone) or RT530 (React) appear, your recharger is part of the Wii recall.

What should you do if you own one?

First of all, one option is to invest in something better. If you need quick cash from a short term loan to accomplish that, you can apply here if you like. Just hit the button.

But by all means, don’t use it any longer. Get in touch with the manufacturer – Griffin International – for information on how you should go about returning the Wii recall product. They’ll send you a free replacement that doesn’t overheat. Here are some contact options:

1. Call Griffin International toll free at (888) 344-4702 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, Monday-Friday
2. E-mail them at productsafety@psyclonegamer.com
3. Visit their Web site for more info: at www.psyclonegamer.com/Wii4Dock
4. If you suffer an injury due to either of these products, report it to the CPSC (at http://www.cpsc.gov/about/contact.html) after seeking medical attention (if necessary).

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(Photo: icanhazcheezburger.com)

You know this happens to countless people; you’ve probably been there yourself. I know I have. I’m talking about the dreaded expense or bill that you never saw coming. How many times have you prepared your budget and had a soft a cushion after paying bills, only to see it thrown off by a trip to the emergency room, a request for money from your child’s teacher or the dreaded car that broke down again? I feel your pain, but that doesn’t mean we should sit around swapping stories and crying in our beer. Do something about it; find a secret weapon to knock out that debt.

What do I mean? Why, installment loans, payday loans, secured loans and quick cash from Personal Money Store, of course!

Networking. It’s a great thing.

Personal Money Store, with its working relationship with a wide network of lenders offering low-fee installment loans, payday loans, secured loans and quick cash for those of us whose credit has hit a few speed bumps, wants to be the only place that you keep in mind when your financial situation is in a state of chaos. Whatever your current or past credit situation is like, one or more lenders just might be able to wire you the installment loans or payday loans you need in only a little bit of time upon approval.

Sometimes in two hours or less

Now, you might have a few questions on your mind as to whether or not conducting your business with Personal Money Store for all of your cheap payday loans needs is a smart move. After all, a lot of people still have cold feet about conducting any type of business transactions over the Internet. Why? It seems an increasing number of security threats such as identity thieves or other cyber criminals. And frankly, why would some people not worry, especially with an estimated 1 in 20 or more adult Americans’ identities being stolen every year.

Your information is secure with us

Let us be the first to assure you that should you opt for utilizing the resources that Personal Money Store has to offer, not only will you be stuffing your cash crunch with installment loans, payday loans, secured loans and quick cash, but you’ll learn a little bit in the process. Browse our blog and you’ll learn  some other financially-sound tips and tricks that we all can use. And through it all, your data will remain safe, as we use industrial-strength 128-bit encryption. That makes your identifying information as safe as can be online. Considering how convenient online transactions are, it’s no wonder consumers look to Personal Money Store when they’re in a jam.

What about your credit rating?

Will applying for one damage your FICO score? No; the entire application and/or transaction process will not damage your credit today, tomorrow or beyond. Not only is the information you share with us secure, but typically only a soft credit pull is performed to determine your loan worthiness. In other words, we don’t leave an inquiry on your report. The more inquiries you have, the less apt new creditors are to lend you money, so this is certainly significant.

We’re here to help you

But the best thing about coming to Personal Money Store for help obtaining installment loans, payday loan, secured loans and quick cash is the fact that we’re always working to help you get the money you need as quickly as possible. In fact, with some lenders we have relationships with; you could have your money as early as the end of the same business day. Apply now and see what we can do for you!

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