Just a taste of what you'll have to look forward to this weekend....

Find out which traffic signal in town was driving people nuts at a local farmer's market in Liz's Watchdog column.

Find out in my Consuming Interests column how American Express drove me nuts when I called them to help with a customer's complaint about a request for his Social Security Number.

Find out what Eileen says you can expect in open enrollment this month so healthcare surprises don't drive you nuts this year.

Tune in Sundays!

 (www.freefoto.com)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Complaints, Credit cards, Healthcare, Personal finance, Watchdog
        

Here's a tidbit that might make you reconsider how much you tip the pizza guy.

Maryann of Baltamour fame passed on this tip about NYC takeout delivery workers whose employers showed blatant misregard to minimum wage laws and other rules.

Dan Thanh points out that workers here in Baltimore have been similarly mistreated, recalling the owners of Mount Vernon's Kawasaki restaurant who were charged last year with housing illegal immigrants in filthy conditions, paying them nothing and even stealing their tips.

I'm wondering, as the columnist does ...

... how much would we be willing to spend for workers to be treated fairly?

Sure, the price of a nice evening out is going up along with the cost of our grocery bills and everything else. But plenty of people pay a premium for organic, fair trade foodstuffs because of questions of how food is grown ... shouldn't the way food is cooked meet a similar standard? Should we only patronize businesses we know pay workers adequately, and how can we ever know? 

Anyway, some food for thought: do you tip knowing that some workers make all their money from tips?

(photo: David Hobby/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

I'm convinced instant gratification is behind our economic downfall.

Allright, it's not the entire reason why, but I'm thinking it's got to play a significant role in the current credit crisis? Let me explain.

In the old days when you saw something you really liked but couldn't afford, you didn't just charge it and take that sucker home. You put it on layaway. Over a period of some weeks or months, you could make payments in installments -- which was a little easier than forking out all the dough all at once. This meant you couldn't take what you wanted home right away, but it was yours once you paid in full. It was a great concept that went the way of the dinosaur once credit started getting handed out like so much candy corn on Halloween.

I remember my sister used to put stuff on layaway at C-Mart (sniff, sniff) and pick it up once she made all her payments. It made things far more affordable, especially when you didn't have a lot of money.

Then easy credit made layaway plans obsolete. Why wait when you could take it home now? So stores started phasing out the ability to put merchandise on hold as you paid for it bit-by-bit. Wal-Mart discontinued its layaway option in 2006.

Fast forward a couple years to more turbulent times and guess what's making a slow comeback? Layaway plans! Web site creditcards.com says "Aside from a few large retail chains, including Kmart, Burlington Coat Factory Warehouse and select Marshalls and TJ Maxx stores, layaway remains difficult to find." Instead, the Web site said look for

layaway options in the 21st century, the best bet may be to turn on your computer. Currently, the service has a small online presence, with a handful of companies offering consumers the opportunity to make a series of incremental, interest-free payments over the Internet. "It's the same with grocery shopping -- if you can do it online and have it shipped to you, why not?" says Robert Holland, owner of the appropriately-named Web site Lay-away.com.  

K-Mart has had a layaway option for 40-plus years now. Earlier this month, the discount chain launched a K-Mart 8-week layaway ad campaign for the holidays that might make it a little easier for consumers to check off items on their gift list and pay it all off in time to ease post-holiday debt worries. With the exception of about a dozen things that you can't put on layaway, the choices are fairly open (No personal computers and No, you can't put beer, wine and cigarettes on layaway. heheheh.)

It's not instant gratification, but it might be a more sensible way to shop. Perhaps we'll see more stores re-establishing layaway plans for credit-strapped customers? Would you use layaway? Or would you rather get your hot little hands on what you want asap?

Thanks to the CreditSlips blog for tuning us into this new, old trend.

(Getty Images)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Debt, Economy, Loans, Shopping
        

So remember when I told you earlier this week that your bank checking account fees are going up?

You know, the one where I said:

• ATM surcharges moved to $1.97 while the cost of using an outside ATM reached $1.46, bringing the total average cost of using an out-of-network ATM at $3.43.
• Bounced check fees rose 2.5 percent this year, up to $28.95.
• For interest bearing accounts, monthly service fees hit a new high at an average of $11.97. Minimum balances also set a record with an average balance of $3,461.84 needed to keep an account open.

Well, Rick Webb, President & CEO of Atlantic Financial FCU wanted to remind you that you have some options. To compare and contrast, he says:

• We have 28,000 plus, ATMs that are absolutely free to our members coast to coast.  This includes 5,500 7-Eleven Stores, most of the Wawa Stores in this area and a number of participating credit union’s ATMs.
• Should a member use an out-of-network ATM we do charge $1 and the member would be charged that terminal’s surcharge fee.
• While we do charge $25 for a bounced check, our members can first have overdraft protection in two forms, courtesy pay or a an overdraft loan, both of which are far less expensive than a bounced check fee.
• We do not have any minimum account fees.
• We do not have any minimum balance requirements on noninterest bearing accounts.

That's not bad. Anyone out there with money in a credit union? Care to share the benefits and drawbacks of being a credit union customer vs. a bank customer with the rest of us?

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 5:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Banks, Budgeting
        

First comes love. Then comes marriage. Then comes streaming movies and TV shows right into your home!

I know. What am I, 5-years-old?! And yea yea, it doesn't rhyme. But I've made my point.

The two companies announced a new partnership today that will allow you to view Netflix movies on TiVO boxes with no extra cost other than Netflix's own fees. TiVo customers with a TiVo Series 3, TiVo HD, or TiVo HD XL will be able to do this come December.

Wicked cool, yes? If you remember our previous confab about the upcoming Comcast rate increase, a few of us mentioned getting rid of pay TV altogether. I know my work spouse Gus (who is at home taking care of his new, wee baby girl. Congrats babe!) has been talking about hooking up a computer to his big screen for all his TV needs.

I gotta say, I've been giving more and more thought to life without pay TV. Would I miss being able to watch favorite shows like The Closer, Monk and Battlestar Galatica on satellite or cable channels? Would I miss being able to watch 24-hour news channels like Fox and CNN? Yes. But due to my tendency to watch mostly Maryland Public Television and miss my shows when they're actually on TV, and thanks to hulu and Fancast, I've been able to watch my favorite shows anyway on my own time.

I realize most HBO and premium channel shows aren't available on either of those two Web sites, but I don't subscribe to those anyway. When I want to watch an HBO show, I just rent it on DVD after the season is over. Now that Netflix and TiVO are partnering up, they're making it even easier for people who don't want to leave the house or mess with mailing DVDs back. I'm not sure I'll sign up for that since I don't have a TiVO, but it seems to me all the forces are converging to make getting rid of cable or satellite even more doable.

Even better, I just got a coupon for a digital converter box in the mail so I'll still be able to get my regular channels. Now I just have to cancel pay TV and give the box back. I haven't really had a problem with DirecTV, but I won't miss giving them $50-plus a month.

Anyone else thinking of taking the no-pay-TV plunge with me?

(Image from www.slashgear.com)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 2:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS, Computers, Digital television, Rent, Technology
        

On Sunday, I wrote about U-Haul's gas policy and how it forces customers into purchasing more gas than they received to avoid a refueling fee. Some people thought I was too hard on the rental company since many companies use the same gas policy.

I stand firm on my position, though, since I think the policy is flawed. Using something as unreliable as a gas gauge and an eyeball test to determine whether a customer has refilled the tank to exactly where the needle was when they picked up the rental is about as inaccurate a measure as you can get. If the truck is on an incline, if the truck is old and the gauge is off, the chances of getting a bad reading are too great.

Why do I feel so strongly about it? Because there are hundreds of similar complaints online and a lawsuit based on this very issue.

Also, after the column ran, Christian from Baltimore wrote in with his U-Haul story:

Just a quick line to corroborate your story. I moved to Baltimore this summer from Boston, returned my equipment to the same Falls Road U-Haul location as your other reader, and was also slapped with a mystery refuelling charge (about $40, in my case) when I received my credit card statement.

Like your other reader, I was especially diligent in refueling, and in fact overfilled (to U-Haul's benefit) to avoid any possibility of dispute.

In addition to the variables your article discussed, I imagine that gasoline may contract thermally between evening (when I returned my equipment, after hours) and the following morning, when it was "checked in" in my absence. This seems unlikely, however, to account for a discrepancy of a full 1/8 tank, the amount U-Haul claimed I'd shortchanged them, and it would be interesting to see if you hear from other readers who were overcharged. Perhaps there is something more sinister at work here than imprecise fuel gauges.

To U-Haul's credit, they refunded my money after four or five phone calls and a fax with my fuel receipts, a process that took a few weeks. (I pursued the refund through U-Haul's nationwide number, which referred me to a Baltimore regional office.) I am unlikely to rent from them in the future, however -- not because of the fuel charge alone, but because of several other headaches they caused me in the process of my move.

So take a cue from Christian and Lauren (the customer in my column), if you're going to rent from U-Haul, it might not be advantageous to your wallet to drop the rental off without someone there to check you in. You might get hit with mystery charges the next day. If you do happen to get socked with these fees, complain. Christian and Lauren complained, spent days complaining in fact, and both got their money back.

(Sun Photographer Algerina Perna)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Complaints, Gas prices, Rent
        

We've already given you some links to fun, cheap, homemade costume ideas.

If you're still stumped, here are some Halloween costume ideas to get you ready for Fright Night:

1. Hit the thrift store for ready-made (and cheap) options, as well as inspiration. It's the logical destination when outfitting yourself for any costume from another era, but Goodwill, the Salvation Army and other shops sometimes also have ready-made costumes and disguises for adults and kids in stock at bargain prices from folks who are cleaning out their closets.

Last weekend at the Goodwill store on Greenmount Avenue in Waverly, I spotted several adult costumes, including Cinderella and a generic demon/evil thing, as well as some cute animal footie pajamas that looked very Tigger-esque.

Thrift stores can also be a source of inspiration ...

... because you'll never know what you'll find. The Greenmount Goodwill also had sporting equipment like helmets that could be fun, as well as graduation gowns for would-be judges. And I attended a party once where three people were dressed as mechanics named "Joe" because "Joe" apparently donated all his shirts with the little name patch on the chest to a thrift store.

The Thrift Store Shopper has a good thrift store directory to help you find shops.

2. Check the recycling bin. Use a refrigerator box or other packing material to fashion yourself into an iPod nano, a robot, an aquarium or even spaghetti and meatballs. Use discarded aluminum and plastic containers and disposable plates or bowls to add details.

3. Never underestimate the power of a sweatsuit. About.com has an amazing list of ideas for sweatsuit costumes, pairing inexpensive monochromatic sweatsuit separates into costumes such as a cat up a tree or a dalmatian.

4. More ideas. Disney has a list of group costumes, last-minute costumes and costumes for kids.

The Craft Zine has some fun recycled kids' costumes. Heck, I might make that monkey costume for myself! And Instructables.com has lots of good ideas, including this roll of toilet paper costume. It is a very good idea. It is.

And About.com has instructions for making a yarn wig, a fake beard or a fake mustache, as well as fake blood and homemade face paint. Why buy when you can make your own?

UPDATED: And don't miss even more last-minute Halloween costume ideas, compiled with the procrastinator in mind. 

(photo: Doug Kapustin/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

What do more than one-third of college grads expect to be doing more than 10 years from now?

Occupy the corner office at a corporation? Start their own company? Run for political office?

Unfortunately, their plans are a bit more mundane. They expect to be paying off student loans still.

Thirty-seven percent said it will take them more than a decade to pay off their debt, according to an online survey of 4,000 respondents by CollegeGrad.com, a site for entry level jobs.

Ten years is the standard repayment schedule for federal student loans. The federal program has some options, which I wrote about yesterday, to stretch out payments beyond and even to have some debt forgiven. But the longer you take to repay, the more you will pay in interest.

Some positive news from the survey: Twenty-eight percent didn’t have any loans, and 14 percent expect to pay off their debt in less than five years. About one in five expect to pay on the standard schedule.

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Student loans
        

I told you last week that I visited Comcast's office in White Marsh recently, didn't I? Spokesman Aimee Metrick was kind enough to give me a tour of the cable giants's customer service center, its dispatch center and the room full of storage servers where all the digital, video and voice signals converge to shoot back to customers all over.

Pretty impressive, I gotta say. It's quite an operation, but the thing that got my attention were the new programs and technology that Comcast has put in place to improve customer service. 

Readers of this blog know that Comcast monitors the Internet to address consumer complaints and questions. Comcast has reached out to several readers who commented on this site. Comcast also uses social networking sites like Twitter to keep in touch with customers.

In continuing with this improving customer service theme, Comcast has dedicated a network operations center (they call it the NOC, sounds like "knock") that serves as a help desk for its field techs. In the past, field techs equipped with radios had to wait in line when dialing up the call center, just like Comcast customers. That meant Joe Schmo in the Field had to wait to tell dispatch whether he was missing equipment, in need of a converter box, finished with a job, in need of another tech's assistance or what have you. If the call was dropped (which can happen as anyone who has ever called a call center knows), the tech would have to call back and wait in line again. It was very inefficient, which lengthened service times unnecessarily.

Today, those field techs are equipped with hand-held cell phones that allow them to text a nearby tech, notify dispatch of cancellations or job completions, call customers, and text or call the NOC (without waiting in line) in real time. They also can get real-time updates on service calls. This has allowed, Comcast says, a shift away from missed appointments and those all day service windows that forced customers to sit at home for hours waiting for a tech to show. Comcast say customers are given a two- or three-hour service window now and techs or dispatch are required to call customers to confirm the service call.

Comcast has also developed new technology, that I'm not allowed to share in detail because it's still being tested, that alerts the company to problems before they affect customers. According to Comcast, it's a more proactive approach to preventing outages.

Comcast tells me that since implementing these new programs, customer complaints are down and field techs are handling more jobs, more efficiently. It was impressive, if the new technology I witnessed works as well as they say.

But, I have to ask Comcast customers out there if you've noticed an improvement in service? Are your cable outages few and far between? When you have a service appointment, are field techs making it there on time and completing their jobs without much trouble? Or do you think it's gotten worse, or it's just about the same? In the post from last week about Comcast rates going up, commenter Dave said:

I called Comcast prior to moving into my new home (1 month in advance) to schedule installation. That day I was outside for 10 minutes, came back in and noticed Comcast called. I missed their call, so no installation. I am cancelling service to rate hike.

Are other people experiencing anything similar to Dave? Do you find that what an anonymous Comcast insider told Consumerist last year is still true, that Comcast really doesn't care? Write in and let us know. In my regular duties for the print part of my job, I've noticed that I haven't received many Comcast service complaints in the past year. I'm wondering if that's because complaints are really down because of Comcast's efforts to improve customer service, or have people just given up and come to accept sub-par service?

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)
Categories: Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS, Technology
        

All right, never fear if you didn't follow my advice a few weeks ago and get started on homemade Halloween costumes for yourself and any little ones you're responsible for. There's still time to put something together that meets standards.

Personally, I like costumes that aren't cumbersome (I want to be able to sit down), permit visibility at night, are easily understood from a distance and don't require the "sexy" modifier. I am irritated by sexy cops, sexy nurses, sexy insurance salesmen and sexy Boba Fetts.

Fine, dress up as a character that is inherently alluring, but don't just tart up some ordinary costume just for the sake of wearing fishnets. It's not dignified, and frankly most years it's just too cold.

My favorite quick-and-cheap costume ...

... was a pirate. Skip the Halloween store accessories and head to your local drugstore for a black eyepatch and a dollar store for a toy sword. White button-down shirt, black pants tucked into boots, a red scarf around the waist and bandana on the head (another dollar store purchase, if necessary) and you're ready to make someone walk the plank. Arr.

What last-minute ideas have worked for you in years past? What non-traditional places do you hit for supplies or inspiration? Feel free to share and trade ideas below.

(photo: "toxic waste" costume at Clarksville Elementary last year. Doug Kapustin/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Exorcise your household of energy zappers this weekend, with this Google tip via Lifehacker.

Google provides us with a holiday-themed energy conservation calculator to help you determine how much you'd lower your energy bills by vanquishing your home of:

* "vampires" --- electronics sapping energy even when turned off;

* "ghosts" --- the sound of heat whooshing up an open chimney flue;

* "zombies" --- computers that continue to drain energy when not being used.

In addition to the estimates of how much you'd save in utility costs, Google has put together a list of links to more tips for trimming your usage.

These are just the kinds of projects to attack while working off a candy-corn-induced sugar high.

Mmm. Candy corn.

(photo: Liz)

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Energy/Utilities
        

Seriously. How many complaints from consumers need to be filed before the authorities shut down a troubled business?

We told you in February that the Federal Trade Commission reached a settlement with BlueHippo over allegations that it took consumers' money without providing the electronics purchased. BlueHippo didn’t admit to doing anything wrong, but agreed to pay $3.5 million to possibly $5 million to burned consumers. Then in May, I told you that complaints are still pouring in to Better Business Bureaus and AG Offices around the country about BlueHippo.

Today, the Associated Press tells us that the Tennessee attorney general's office has filed a lawsuit against BlueHippo for (again) claims that the computer sales company unlawfully took $2.6 million from at least 4,500 Tennesseans.

According to the story in The Tennessean , the lawsuit says the Baltimore-based company advertised on national TV to target households with poor credit making less than $25,000 annually and sell them computers through layaway or finance plans. As with the thousands of complaints that have been filed, Tennessee's lawsuit says BlueHippo mislead consumers about when they would receive their computers by mail and refused to refund the upfront payments customers made.

The lawsuit filed Oct. 23 says the upfront payment costs consumers two to three times more than what licensed retailers charge for the same product. It also says BlueHippo does not have a state lender license.

Again, I say, same old same old... When will it end?

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 4:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Complaints, Computers, Consumer protection, Consumer safety, Loans, Naughty businesses/NBotW
        

Benefits consultant Watson Wyatt Worldwide says about one in four employers plan to lay off workers in the next 12 months. Employers, though, plan to do a better job communicating with workers about pay and benefits, Watson says.

Maybe that means we’ll get a better explanation of why we didn’t get a raise or why our benefits are being cut.

By the way, if you have been laid off recently, or expect to be soon, my colleague, Lorraine Mirabella, would like to talk to you for an article. She’s writing about how the newly unemployed are coping or how those who anticipate a job loss are preparing.

Let us know if you’d like to participate. Send us a message or write to Lorraine at lorraine.mirabella@baltsun.com.

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 2:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Economy
        

Okay, okay. We usually save Cheap Tricks for Thursdays, but here's an early start to your week of savings: get a free beef taco at Taco Bell from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. today (Oct. 28) because Jason Bartlett stole a base in the World Series Wednesday night.

What's the investment by Taco Bell? Well, the odds were in favor of at least one  stolen base during the World Series --- a less than a one in 1000 chance that none would be stolen, according to a WSJ article. 

Complete rules for the Steal a Base, Steal a Taco promotion are available on Taco Bell's Web site.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal
        

How can you avoid turning credit repair into credit despair? Here are a few suggestions from the Federal Trade Commission:

Avoid any company that wants you to pay for credit repair services before they provide any services. It is against the law.

Avoid any credit repair company that will not tell you your legal rights and what you can do, yourself, for free.

Avoid any credit repair company that tells you not to contact a credit reporting company directly.

Avoid any credit repair company that advises you to dispute all of the information in your credit report.

Avoid any company that suggests creating a 'new' credit identity - and then, a new credit report - by applying for an Employer Identification Number to use instead of your Social Security number. That is against the law. If you follow illegal advice and commit fraud, you also may be subject to prosecution.

Be safe out there.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 9:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Consumer protection, Consumer safety, Credit reports, Debt, How To, Personal finance
        

Ever wonder if those TV ads claiming to help you repair your credit are legit?

Here's what the Federal Trade Commission and 24 state agencies said:

"Companies that promise they are able to scrub your credit reports of accurate, negative information for a fee are lying - plain and simple," said Lydia Parnes, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "Under federal law, accurate, negative information can be reported for up to seven years, and some bankruptcies can be reported for up to 10 years."

Earlier this month, the FTC and the state agencies launched "Operation Clean Sweep" to go after 33 operations that deceptively claimed they can remove negative information from consumers' credit reports, even if that information is accurate and timely. The FTC sought to halt the companies' allegedly unlawful business practices, prohibit further violations, and make them pay consumer redress and give up their ill-gotten gains. The FTC said it received thousands of complaints from consumers. Keep reading for the list of companies that they took action against.

Nationwide Credit Services, Inc. and James R. Dooley, based in Florida, advertise their credit repair services on www.ehappyhour.com and in the Yellow Pages, stating, for example, that bankruptcies, judgments, slow pay history, repossessions, and collection accounts 'CAN BE LEGALLY ERASED!' The defendants charge from $300 to $1,000, including an advance fee ranging from $75 to $150, and a monthly fee that they often debit from consumers' bank accounts. After paying the fees, consumers find that the defendants rarely, if ever, deliver the promised results. In many instances, they take consumers' money without providing any services. Consumers often find their cancellation requests ignored, and their refund requests are almost always denied.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

Clean Credit Report Services, Inc., Ricardo A. Miranda, Daniel R. Miranda, and Ruthy Villabona, based in Florida, advertise on radio, television, and www.ccrstoday.com, which has testimonials, such as one purportedly from an Atlanta woman, stating, '. . . When I lost my job and simply didn't pay my credit cards and when I needed to get my car loan they said I needed at least a 600 credit score but I had a 480. I got into the CCRS club and did what they told me to do . . . When I pulled my report online I realized that I had a 621. I couldn't believe this really works.' Consumers who responded to the defendants' ads on syndicated radio talk shows were told that the defendants would help remove all the negative remarks that appear on their credit, and that even current debt could be removed.

Once consumers pay $400 in advance for services, the defendants often debit the money from their bank accounts before receiving a signed contract, and then do little, if anything, to fulfill their promises. When consumers reach them to complain, they're told a variety of excuses, and those who persist are sometimes hung up on, put on hold, or ignored.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Miami Division. The FTC thanks the Better Business Bureau of Southeast Florida for its invaluable assistance.

Successful Credit Service Corporation, also doing business as Success Credit Services, and Tracy Ballard, also known as Tracy Ballard-Straughn, based in California, promote their credit repair services primarily through appearances at seminars offering real estate investment or other business opportunities. They also promote themselves via audio podcasts on third-party Web sites and through their Web sites, www.successcreditservices.com and www.successfulcreditservices.org. They claim to have special relationships 'with every creditor, collection company, public records provider and credit bureaus,' and that because of this, they can perform 'hard' or permanent deletions of all kinds of derogatory information from consumer's credit reports. Consumers typically must pay advance fees ranging from $3,000 to $4,000 per person.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, Western Division. The FTC thanks the California Attorney General's office for its invaluable assistance.

Advantage Credit Repair LLC and Mark D. Solomon, based in Illinois, advertise on www.myadvantagecredit.com and Yellow Pages ads, stating, 'We would never charge a large fee up front, or make you wait a long period of time to refund your money if we do not get results. You WILL see results in 60 days, or your money will be refunded in full . . .' The defendants charge $495 per person and $665 for a couple, and they require $219 or $269, respectively, in advance. Refund requests are almost always denied.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division

RCA Credit Services, LLC, Rick Lee Crosby, Jr., and Brady Wellington, based in Florida, advertise on www.RCACredit.com and www.RCAcreditservices.com. Their ads state, 'Boost Your Credit Score Into The 700s' in as little as 30 days' and claim that RCA can remove 'ANY or ALL Negative Accounts From Your Credit Report.' They state that a credit expert will 'coach you on ways to remove negative remarks and unpaid debts from your credit report while adding new positive reporting accounts to your credit file.' The defendants charge from $500 to more than $3,000, and they require at least partial payment in advance of providing any services. In many instances, the defendants allegedly provided consumers no services at all.

These defendants are also charged with violating the CROA by failing to provide, before contracts are signed, a written statement of 'Consumer Credit File Rights Under State and Federal Law;' failing to include in their consumer contracts conspicuous statements about consumers' right to cancel without penalty or obligation within three business days; and failing to provide a written 'Notice of Cancellation' form.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

Latrese & Kevin Enterprises, Inc., also d/b/a Hargrave & Associates Financial Solutions, Latrese Hargrave, also known as Latrese V. Williams, and Kevin Hargrave, Sr., based in Florida, advertise on www.hargraveandassociates.com and www.helpmycreditnow.com, and on radio stations with rhythm & blues, hip-hop, and gospel formats. They charge $250 to $270 per person and $450 per couple, half or all of which they require in advance. In a radio script, the defendants state, 'They specialize in erasing bad credit! Hargrave & Associates covers all three major credit bureaus, slow pays, charge-offs, repossessions can be erased for two-hundred, fifty dollars.'

Also, on www.hargravecard.com and in radio ads, the defendants offer an advance-fee credit card, for $100 to $300, claiming that applicants will be approved for a guaranteed credit limit ranging from $500 to $10,000. These defendants are also charged with violating the Telemarketing Sales Rule by requesting or receiving a fee in advance of consumers obtaining a credit card when the defendants have guaranteed or represented a high likelihood of success in obtaining or arranging for the acquisition of a credit card. In addition, they are charged with violating the FTC Act by falsely representing that consumers will receive a credit card after paying a fee.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

ACE Group, Inc., also d/b/a as American Credit Experts, Inc., The Ace Group, Inc., The Ace Group, and ACE; Legal Credit Repair Center, Inc., also d/b/a LCRC, Michael Singer, Melvin Kessler, and Gerald Roth, based in Florida, advertise on www.aceintake.com, www.foryourcredit.com, http://www.helpformycredit.com, www.helpmycredit.com, and pop-up Internet ads. One ad states, ' . . . ACE has developed a methodology which starts to show results in as little as 60 days.' In telephone calls responding to the ads, FTC investigators posing as consumers were told, '. . . everything surrounding your bankruptcy will be removed from your credit report . . .' and late payments 'are easy to remove.'

The defendants typically charge $39.95 to $59.95 initially, then $59.95 per month for their promised services, which they indicate may take up to six to eight months. They send the major credit reporting agencies repeated dispute letters on consumers' behalf, with vague statements about each disputed debt or bankruptcy record, but with no further explanation or documentation. The defendants dispute items repeatedly, even after the credit bureaus have verified them.

The Commission vote to authorize staff to file the complaint was 4-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

Operation Clean Sweep also includes three FTC cases announced earlier this year: Home Buyers Consulting Network, Inc., Payneless Credit Repair, LLC, and Lee Harrison Credit Restoration (see press releases dated May 22, July 17, and September 10).

State law enforcement efforts involved the attorney general offices in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, and West Virginia; the justice departments of North Carolina, Oregon, and Wisconsin; Idaho's Department of Finance; Louisiana's Office of Financial Institutions; Vermont's Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities & Health Care Administration; and Wisconsin's Department of Financial Institutions.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Consumer protection, Consumer safety, Debt, Naughty businesses/NBotW, Personal finance, Scams
        

Here's something that shouldn't be too surprising. Bankrate's 2008 Checking Study, which was released this morning, showed that checking account fees have risen to record highs this year.

On average, Bankrate found that:

* ATM surcharges moved to $1.97 while the cost of using an outside ATM reached $1.46, bringing the total average cost of using an out-of-network ATM at $3.43.

* Bounced check fees rose 2.5 percent this year, up to $28.95.

* For interest bearing accounts, monthly service fees hit a new high at an average of $11.97. Minimum balances also set a record with an average balance of $3,461.84 needed to keep an account open.

* For non-interest bearing accounts, monthly service fees hit a new low at an average of $1.96. Minimum balances also hit a new low with an average balance of $109.46 required.

Bankrate's senior financial analyst Greg McBride says consumers need to be more vigilant than ever to avoid bank fees. You should balance your checkbooks regularly and check your account balances online routinely. You can also sign up for overdraft protection with a funded savings account to make sure you don't bounce a check.

McBride says think twice about taking money out of an ATM. Taking $30 or $40 from an out-of-network ATM is the same as paying 9 percent interest on your money, he says. You should also investigate online banks.  Many reputable online banks have generous ATM fee reimbursement programs for frequent users.

(Sun Photographer Kim Hairston)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Banks
        

I had one of those "a-ha!" moments yesterday when I read this comment from the organization blog Unclutterer:

"... If you weigh the banana unpeeled and then weigh the peel, it’s always about 50% of the weight, hence 50% of the cost."

Obviously nobody is going to buy or sell unpeeled bananas, freed from one of the best forms of packaging nature has to offer. But it made me consider what exactly I am paying for when I pick up my groceries.

You could make the same argument to justify the higher price of boneless, skinless chicken parts, for example ...

... in that you're not paying for the parts of the chicken you don't eat: skin, bones, feet. (Not that I don't or won't eat some of these parts ... just saying some people and recipes call for specific anatomical regions of the bird).

Blogger Jim at Blueprint for Financial Prosperity tested this theory, whether you would save money by butchering your own chicken. He took apart a prepackaged roaster (already dead and procured from a supermarket) and estimated that he saved $3.61 on just the meatiest parts alone.

Of course, you have to know how to handle a pair of kitchen shears, and take the time to do it, but if you're playing with raw poultry to begin with, it may be worth the savings.

Plus, as he points out, you can use the organ meat and bones to make a tasty healthy chicken stock afterward.

Hmm ... now I'm wondering if I buy a whole fish, do they weigh it before or after the monger chops it into tasty steaks or fillets? 

(photo: Andre Chung/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Welcome back, welcome back! Hope everyone had a good weekend.

So did you catch my column yesterday on U-Haul's gas policy? If you're using an eyeball test on a gas gauge, which in my experience with cars (my dad was a mechanic) become increasingly unreliable with age, how accurate can that be? I wonder who ends up shorted more often? U-Haul or their customers?

The only sure thing I learned from Lauren Klemm's experience is that you should never drop off a rental without someone there to check it in or else you're at risk of finding some surprise charges on your card.

I'd advise bringing a camera with you, too, so you can document the condition of the rental before you pick it up and the condition of the rental afterward... As a precaution, I'd say you should probably start taking a photo of the gas gauge, too, especially if you're renting from U-Haul.

And how about Eileen's column on teaching your children about personal finance? I thought it was interesting that classes on finance don't tend to stick with kids, like Trig (geez, I only passed trig thanks to my very good friend Michael who was a math genius... at least in my eyes, he was!).

We didn't have a lot of money growing up so it was always clear to the kids where all of my parents' money was going... to pay the rent, household bills and food. There wasn't a lot for extras. So when I started working, I opened up a savings account, too, and slowly learned how to take care of my budget that way.

How did you learn about personal finance? And have you passed that knowledge on to your kids?

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Complaints, Consumer protection, Personal finance, Rent
        

I do love Fridays... almost as much as I love the end of Thursdays. Why? Because getting through Thursdays (which is deadline day for the print part of my column) is like defusing a ticking time bomb. I never know if I'm going to finish the job or if I'm going to explode into bits before it gets done.

So the end of the day Thursday is euphoric.

Anyhoo, all the wind-up is just to prepare you for Consumer Sunday! Here's a question I have for you: If the needle on a gas gauge points to the letter "F" and no one is around to see it, does it mean the gas tank is full?

For the answer, tune in to Consuming Interests, the column, on Sunday.

We know the current economic troubles are worrying, but it also presents a pretty good opportunity to teach your children about finances and managing money. Eileen will tell you how to impart some financial wisdom the right way in her personal finance column on Sunday.

La Liz was out sick a couple days this week so Watchdog will be taking a sick day this weekend, too. We promise she'll be back in tip-top form next week. If you miss Liz's get 'er done attitude, check out the archives to see what Liz has helped fix in our fair city.

Have a good weekend everyone!

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Complaints, Personal finance, Rent, Watchdog
        

Remember yesterday when Eileen told you that if you're missing your stimulus check, it could be that the Internal Revenue Service has the wrong address for you?

Eileen says "the IRS is holding more than 4,200 stimulus checks and more than 1,500 tax refunds belonging to Marylanders. The U.S. Postal Service was unable to deliver them because of an incorrect address and returned the checks to the IRS."

All told, that’s more than $4 million waiting to be claimed. If you think you might be among the missing checks, click this handy-dandy link that our tech whizzes whipped up to help you find out if you're on the list of Marylanders owed a refund or stimulus check.

Also, Eileen warns that you need to update your address with the IRS by Nov. 28 to get your check this year.

You can change your address here on the IRS Web site.  

Just for giggles, I plugged my name and zip in... Alas, I am owed nothing. (sigh)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Tax rebates
        

The DIY-loving folks at Instructables.com have an interesting contest underway!

Given the state of the economy, they're looking for the best money-saving methods out there. 

As they say so eloquently themselves:

"Our grandparents and great-grandparents got through the Great Depression with the help of hundreds of little tricks to save money and live with less. We can do even better!

Maybe you're reusing, repurposing, or upcycling your old gear; maybe you're combining trips, hypermiling, or carpooling to save gas; maybe you're preserving produce from your garden. There are a million little things you can do to save money, and we want to see them!"

Enter your frugal ideas on the Web site to win a copy of The Best of Instructables and a Kill A Watt electricity usage monitor --- the better to measure the energy hoggin' appliances in your household! 

Whether it's an idea as intriguing as signing up Fido to be a dog blood donor ...

Better get to work writing up and illustrating your ideas --- the deadline is Nov. 2!

Still need some inspiration?

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Energy/Utilities, Food, Greenies
        

Hey, all you Windows users out there, it's time to patch Windows again because there's a nasty little bug waiting to wreck havoc on your computer.

Michael Horowitz at CNet News' Defensive Computing says:

If you use a Windows computer connected to a network, a newly discovered bug makes it possible for a bad guy to wreak havoc on the computer without your doing anything. The most vulnerable versions of Windows are XP, 2000 and Server 2003. Vista and Server 2008 are also vulnerable, but not as badly. Microsoft considers the bug important enough to issue the patch immediately rather than waiting for their normal once-a-month patch Tuesday.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Computers, Consumer protection, Technology
        

Boy, I hate being the bearer of bad news, especially after yesterday's Comcast rate increase post, but I have to tell you that the American Gas Association said yesterday that consumers should expect a likely 10 to 30 percent increase in home-heating costs this winter.

Gas is the most common form of home-heat in the U.S. so this will likely hurt a lot of households, especially those in the Northeast and upper Midwest where the winter can be especially cold.

So how exactly will this affect you? It's hard to say since the increase will depend on two factors: how much gas you use to heat your home this winter and the price per unit that your utility paid to lock in its supply for the cold season.

As the AGA explains it, "During much of the first half of 2008, natural gas prices on average were much higher than they are now. Spot prices at the popular Henry Hub in Erath, Louisiana ranged between $7.18 and $13.01 per million Btu (MMBtu) from January through July, While prices started to fall in late July, natural gas utilities acquire their winter natural gas supplies throughout the year, so those recent lower prices will be blended in with the higher prices paid earlier in the year."

In other words, the recent drop in natural gas prices won't be felt as much because most utilities locked in their supplies earlier in the year when prices were higher.

For BGE customers, the utility announced back in September that residential natural gas customers can count on a $110 average increase from last winter in the gas portion of their total bill for this upcoming heating season. Assuming a normal winter, the BGE average residential customer ccan expect to pay about $792 during the season, which lasts from Nov. 1, 2008, through March 31, 2009.

The one bit of good news for everyone is that the AGA says there are ample supplies to meet demand. Yea, I know. You can't go running to the bank with that one. Sorry folks.

(Getty Images)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Economy, Energy/Utilities
        

Haven’t gotten your stimulus check? It could be that the IRS doesn’t have the correct address for you.

The IRS is holding more than 4,200 economic stimulus checks belonging to Marylanders that the U.S. Postal Service returned to the agency as undeliverable because of address errors. The checks are worth more than $2.5 million.

On top of that, more than 1,500 regular refund checks totaling more than $1.5 million have also been returned to the IRS.

That’s more than $4 million dollars waiting for taxpayers to claim. (Check back on this site tomorrow and we will have the names of everyone who is due either a refund or a rebate.)

You need to update your address with the IRS by Nov. 28th if you want to get your stimulus check this year. You can do so, by going to the IRS Web site and using the tool for correcting your address.

If you know people who don’t have Internet access but haven’t gotten their check, tell them to call 1-866-234-2942.

You can update your address for your regular fund online also. The site allows you to check on the status of your refund. You will need to include your Social Security number, filing status and the size of the refund listed on your 2007 return. To check on your refund over the phone and find out how to update your address, call 1-800-829-1954.

If you’re not sure whether Uncle Sam owes you a stimulus check or a refund, check on the tax rebate first, the IRS says. The agency has until the end of the year to mail out the stimulus checks and the deadline is fast approaching.

As of the end of September, the IRS disbursed 116 million stimulus checks and 279,000 have been returned as undeliverable. More than 105 million regular refunds have gone out, and 104,000 have been undeliverable.

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 3:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

AlisaBS! woohoo!

Her winning 1000th comment on an e-card that informs recipients they may have contracted an STD:

"Ah, the break-up by post-it. That episode of Sex and the City was just on TBS the other night. Classic. As creepy as the STD e-mail is, it's still better to know."

But wait, wait... there's more. We're awarding the lucky 1,001st commenter, too! Why? Because that's how we roll here at Consuming Interests. Well, ok, it's because we happened to have an extra prize on our desk, but mostly because we're just kerrrrazy like that. The lucky 1,001st commenter is:

Evan for this winning comment about Comcast raising your cable rates:

While I commend everyone for taking full advantage of watching their TV shows online in lieu of cable service (I'm doing the same thing), the only thing that's going to come of it is bandwidth caps (already happened) and a tier-based pay scale for internet usage.

(At that point I would just split the cost with a couple of neighbors)

Congrats to both of you! Thanks for playing and most definitely, thanks for reading. For your prizes, you both get a Terracyle bag, which are identical and made out of recycled Kool-Aid juicies. But AlisaBS, you get first dibs on the book, "The Middle Class Millionaire" or "Mobile Home Wealth." (This is not a recommendation for either book since it's just a part all the graft that comes across our desk and neither have been cracked open by our crack team here). Evan, you get whichever one AlisaBS doesn't want.

If you can both e-mail us your address, we will mail you your fabulous winnings. Send it to consuminginterests@baltsun.com.

And now, back to your regularly scheduled programming....

(photo by Liz)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Odds & Ends
        

Many consumers are worried about the health of financial companies given that some of the biggest names have needed a bailout from taxpayers.

But don't let an unscrupulous agent or broker prey on those worries and convince you to ditch your insurance policies and annuities, particularly AIG products, and replace them with other products.

That's a warning from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, which is made up of insurance regulators across the country.

The association says that AIG's troubles involved its non-insurance parent company which isn't regulated by states and doesn't have the "same investment, accounting and capital adequacy standards as its state-regulated insurance subsidiaries."

The NAIC adds, "These AIG insurance companies are financially solvent and paying policyholder claims."

Whether it's AIG or another insurer, if it appears that the company won't be able to keep its promises, regulators in your state can take over the insurer and fulfill its obligations, the NAIC says.

Even so, some sales pitches will try to convince you otherwise and get you to replace policies and annuities, the NAIC says. But this can have some costly repercussions - taxes and cancellation penalties - for liquidating an annuity or life policy.

A good sign that an agent or broker might not have you interest in mind is if he or she pressures you to make an immediate decision, without giving you time to consider whether you would truly benefit from a switch, NAIC says.

If you decide you should replace policies or annuities, the NAIC advises:

- Contact your state insurance department to get a list of things an agent or broker must tell you before you buy.

- Read all the materials carefully and make sure your understand them.

- Get every promise and key details in writing.

- And don't make a decision until you talk to a trusted adviser or relative.

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 2:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Insurance
        

After nearly a year of compiling the best of consumer news and views for you, Consuming Interests has finally reached a milestone: we're within sight of the 1,000th comment posted on the blog. (DD: We're so close, I can almost smell it!)

We've all enjoyed sharing info about financial foibles, the infamous tax rebate and naughty businesses as well as cheap tricks to help you hang on to your money. 

Now, we'd like to reward our loyal readers --- as well as those who drop in --- with a special prize. Whoever posts the 1,000th comment will receive an excellent freebie in which to stash their spare change. (DD: yes, stuff it full of money... er.. your OWN money. Not ours. whaddaya think we get paid a lot to do this?!)

And as always ...

let us know what you like, what's not working, and what you'd like to see more of. More technology reviews? Fewer coupons? (DD: Gus serenading you with, "You Give Love A Bad Name"???) Just say the word.

(photo: Gene Sweeney/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Odds & Ends
        

Thanks once again to Frequent Commenter Bob for his tip to yet another interesting WSJ column, this time about the Costco Effect: when buying at warehouse stores entices shoppers to purchase more than they need.

Sure, you can get paper products and other shelf-stable staples for less at a warehouse store, but if you can't leave the store without picking up a discounted New York Times bestseller or some gourmet snack, you may be frittering away your money.

And if buying your household staples in larger quantities prompts you to use or eat them in greater quantities than you normally would ... are you really saving in the long run? And if you still have to hit a traditional supermarket to get the last few items on your list ... you're vulnerable to even more impulse purchases.

Last Thursday we tipped you off to a Sam's Club membership deal --- just $10 for 10 weeks.  However ...

Consumer Reports points out that this promotion actually costs more per week than the regular family membership of $40 per year.

But, it could be your opportunity to test the waters ... see what kind of inventory they have, and stock up for any holiday parties you might be having.

(photo: David Hobby/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

 So I just received an e-mail from a group called TV4US about Maryland residents paying an average of 6.4 percent more for cable on Nov. 1.

Says TV4US, "the cost of Comcast's standard cable package will go from $55.45 to $59, an increase of 6.4 percent. In some counties, like Montgomery, rates have increased 13.75 percent since January 2007."

Comcast disputes those figures. (I'll get to this in a sec.)

Comcast is not, however, disputing the fact that your cable bill is going up come Nov. 1. Customers in the Maryland-Delaware-Richmond region, which includes Greater Baltimore, will see a 3.7 percent increase in their bill.

The average bill increase is representative of customers who purchase multiple products from Comcast (Internet, phone, etc.), as the majority do, the company says. Customers in bundle packages will not see a change to their pricing and Comcast will not increase prices for any digital voice customers or for high-speed Internet customers who subscribe to at least one other service, says Comcast spokesman Aimee Metrick.

"As we discussed, it is impossible to comment on how TV4US came up with their calculations as they omit that from their press release," Metrick says. "but the numbers they provide are not in fact representative of the average increase our customers will see or have seen in Maryland."

Metrick says that the price adjustments are needed "in view of the increased cost of doing busines in this challenging economic environment, including gas prices, healthcare costs, increases in the cost we pay for programming, and technology and service improvements." (The company spends $6 billion a year on programming.)

Metrick also says that "While we have been aggressive at controlling costs, we expect continued increases in programming, particularly in sports." Reasonable people might deduce that rising programming costs for Comcast could again affect your bills down the road, too.

How much do you currently pay for cable? Has anyone out there seen whether cable prices are more competitive in areas that have competition? What will the increase mean for your bill and your pocketbook? Shoot us a comment here.

(photo courtesy of stockxchng)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 6:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (46)
Categories: Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS
        

Frequent reader Bob shared a link to this WSJ article about the impact of nature vs. nurture in the making of a miser.

The writer explains how he was raised to understand the value of a dollar by relatives who kept their cars on the road for decades. This was in contrast to his wife, who will save when it comes to furniture and clothing but splurges on food.

According to the article, research shows that ...

if you have two thrifty parents, you'll grow up thrifty as well. That makes sense to me --- your parents or closest caregivers are the ones who impart their values on you, so if you see them trying to stretch their money, you'll adopt their techniques as well.

But what happens when the frugal meet the not-so-frugal? I thought it was interesting how the writer and his wife compromised when it came to making their respective instincts work. They decided he would do the food shopping to avoid impulse buys, for example. They also decided *not* to live in a tent, as the writer suggested when they first got married. Good move.

Any tips on making frugal compromises? Anything you refuse to back down on --- a certain brand of cereal, a minimum ply for your toilet paper? Share them below. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal
        

 Raise your hand if you've gotten an e-card in your e-mail Inbox, only to delete it because you're worried it could contain malicious software or other virus just waiting to muck up your computer?

I don't really know of anyone who sends e-cards, do you? I don't think I've ever opened one for fear of what might be in it.

Now if those e-greeting cards aren't bad enough, I just saw this U.S. News & World Report story online about a Web-based system that allows you to electronically tell people that they may have contracted a sexually-transmitted disease.

No. I am not kidding. Yes. It's true. Read about the you've-possibly-been-exposed-to-an-STD-e-card story here.

Imagine opening up a card that says:

"No one wants to be the bearer of bad news...but I got diagnosed with STDs (You might have one, too)."

The free e-cards are part of inSPOT, a peer-to-peer, Web-based system developed by the nonprofit Internet Sexuality Information Services and the San Francisco Department of Public Health. Since its inception in 2004, more than 30,000 people have sent more than 49,500 of the cards, and more than 750 people browse the site each day, according to what the site's creators told U.S. News.

I can understand that it can be difficult to tell someone this kind of news. I can also understand that it's very, very important to tell people this kind of news so that they can go see a doctor and get medical help. But the part that really gets me is that you can do this anonymously. That's right, the recipient can get devastating news without ever knowing who sent it. Wow.

I'm just not sure how I feel about this. On the one hand, I can understand it. It avoids all that drama that could result from dropping such bad news on someone. It gets an important health message out there. On the other, it just seems like such an impersonal, cowardly move after you engaged in such an intimate act with that person. And what if someone uses this service maliciously? And what ever happened to taking personal responsibility for your actions?

Makes breaking up with someone by Post-it seem almost nicedecent by comparison.

(looloo e-card image)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 11:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Consumer protection, Consumer safety, Healthcare, Technology
        

We've told you before that you can save money on prescription drugs by comparing prices, because different pharmacies can charge wildly different prices.

Now the Maryland attorney general office Web site has a prescription drug price finder, a great tool to compare prescription drug prices among local pharmacies that I discovered on a list of health care savings tips from Consumer Reports.

Here's how it works: 

You enter your zip code to locate local pharmacies and check off drugs you use. The prices were reported to the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and would be what a normal customer without insurance would pay for a 30-day supply. It also does not include any discounts for seniors or others.

(photo: stock.xchng)

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: CWSotW, Consumer protection
        

On a day when I usually tell you about naughty companies, naughty people or naughty business practices, I thought it might be kind of nice to share a nice story for a change.

In these tough economic times as businesses are tightening the belt and cutting costs, Frederick-based, family-run business Metropolitan Steel delivered a private stimulus package earlier this month to its 50 steel workers and their families.

Employees were worried that there would be news of pay cuts, layoffs or shutdowns announced at a recent financial meeting held by company executives, but instead, CEO and President Rick Hill handed them $600 checks. (That's a photo of Hill there to the right.)

Hill doled out a total of $30,000 to employees at the Frederick plant and his two other local companies — Metropolitan Choppers in Frederick and Regal Printing in Hagerstown — after he had been slowly saving for about a year. Giving employees chunks of money is his idea of a meaningful economic stimulus plan, mimicking the federal stimulus checks sent to taxpayers this year.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Above and Beyond, Economy, Tax rebates
        

My earlier post got me looking at infomercials at work. I've already told you I'm mesmerized by the make-a-hot-pocket-out-of-anything commercial, but I also like this one on the Tater Mitts.

I can't explain why, especially since I almost never buy potatoes to cook at home, but the ease of peeling those darn potatoes makes me want to get some Tater Mitts (if not just for being able to say Tater Mitts repeatedly whilst giggling over the kitchen sink).

It also got me to thinking that I've only ever bought two things from an infomercial ever despite watching countless hours of such nonsense. What can I say? I'm easily entertained.

I know I'm not the only infomercial watcher out there and I know I can't be the only person who has ever bought something from watching those things so if you share your favorite infomercial with me and you tell me what you bought, I'll tell you what I bought. Deal?

By the way, just in case you find yourself buying far too many of these infomercial products that don't seem to work as promised, check out sites like CBS Channel 3 news investigator Andy Wise, Infomercial Watch by Stephen Barrett, or Good Morning America's Does it Work segments.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Marketing/Advertising
        

Anyone who knows me, knows that I have a fondness for watching cheezy infomercials.  They used to air late at night, but now there are entire channels devoted to them.

So I often find myself lingering far too long, when I'm channel surfing, on the dozens of client affirmations for Proactiv, Cindy Crawford's buy-these-beauty-products-and-never-age-like-me schtick, and that one doo-dad that makes hot pockets out of any kind of food you want to eat. I have just one word for that last infomercial: awesome.

One infomercial, however, drives me up the wall. Which one, you ask? Any infomercial that involves Kevin Trudeau and whatever book he's shilling on natural cures or weight loss. Why does this dude bother me?

Because a federal judge has banned Kevin Trudeau from infomercials in which he has an interest for three years. He's also been ordered to pay more than $5 million in profits from his book, "The Weight Loss Cure 'They' Don't Want You to Know About." This recent ruling in August confirms a 2004 contempt finding against Trudeau -- the second time he's been found in contempt of court in the past four years.

Judge Robert W. Gettleman of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois affirmed his 2007 ruling that Trudeau "clearly, and no doubt intentionally," violated a provision o a 2004 stipulated court order that prohibits him from misrepresenting the content of his books in his infomercials.

The judge stated that "the Infomercial[s] falsely and intentionally led thousands (probably hundreds of thousands) of consumers to believe that the Weight Loss Book would describe an 'easy,' 'simple' protocol that, once 'finished' would allow the consumer to 'eat anything' he or she wants."

Some of the "undeniably false" statements that the judge said Trudeau made:

the diet protocol could not be done "easily" and "at home," because the protocol described in Trudeau's book requires colonics, which must be done at the office of a licensed practitioner, as well as injection of human growth hormone;

dieters could not "complete" or "finish" Trudeau's four-phase program, because Trudeau's book states that "Phase 4 is for the rest of your life";

dieters could not eat "anything" they want, because Trudeau's book prescribes that dieters following Phase 4 must eat "only 100% organic food," and no "brand name" food, "fast food," or "food served by regional or national chain restaurants"; and

the diet protocol did not require "no exercise," because Trudeau's book states that three of the diet's four phases, including Phase 4, require walking one hour outside every day.

The Federal Trade Commission filed its first lawsuit against Trudeau in 1998. He was charged him with making false and misleading claims in infomercials for products he claimed could cause significant weight loss and cure addictions to heroin, alcohol, and cigarettes, and enable users to achieve a photographic memory, the FTC said.

In 2003, Trudeau was charged with violating the 1998 order by falsely claiming in infomercials that a product, Coral Calcium Supreme, could cure cancer. Then in 2004, Trudeau agreed to an order that resolved the Coral Calcium matter. The order directed him to pay $2 million in consumer redress and banned him from infomercials, except for infomercials for informational publications such as books, provided that he "must not misrepresent the content" of the books.

Let's hope this recent action keeps Trudeau off the air. And people, please please please stop falling for his spiel.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS, Complaints, Consumer protection, Consumer safety, Healthcare, Marketing/Advertising, Naughty businesses/NBotW
        

We’re bailing out banks and financial institutions with more than $700 billion in our tax dollars. Will it work?

TrueCredit.com commissioned a poll to gauge how successful consumers think the bailout will be and what changes they are making personally during these recessionary times. The results:

A mere 1 percent of those surveyed were confident the bailout would be highly effective.

Most, or 62 percent, say it might be somewhat effective. TrueCredit didn’t say, but does that mean one-third is pessimistic about the bailout’s prospects?

Meanwhile, the survey found that nearly 70 percent said they have already cut back on spending or plan to do so soon. Three in 10 won’t change their spending habits at all. More than half said the current weak economy will mostly affect their discretionary spending.

About half figured the economy will affect their retirement savings. About one in four thinks they might have trouble getting approved for a loan or mortgage because of the economy.

So, what do you think? Will the bailout save Wall Street and Main Street? And how have you been adjusting to the lackluster economy?

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 1:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Investments
        

Just making sure no one ages 18 to 23 --- or anyone who knows people 18- to 23 years old --- misses out on these student travel discounts offered by AirTran and Southwest, from Sunday's travel section.

With AirTran U program, students ages 18 to 22 can fly standby for $69, as long as they abide by the many restrictions. Oddly, you don't actually have to be a student to qualify --- just within the age window.

Southwest's College Rapid Rewards program offers students 18 to 23 a free round-trip ticket for every three round-trips traveled within 24 months.

The article also recommends getting a Student Advantage card for 15 percent off Amtrak and Greyhound tickets, as well as the International Student Identity Card for discounts for the study-abroad bound. The cards cost $20 and $22 to sign up for a year respectively.

Personally ...  

based on my own experience and that of friends, I'd only buy one of these cards if you were absolutely sure you'd make up the membership cost within one or two trips. You can map it out by checking discounts in guidebooks or online. Otherwise it's just one more thing weighing down your backpack.

Any other advice for young folks traveling frequently? 

(photo: Amy Davis/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Travel
        

Did anyone notice that there was a running theme in the Consumer Sunday columns this past weekend? All the issues we covered called for patience and calm heads to get through trying times or problems. 

An unreliable street light in Roland Park was finally shining all night long in Liz's Watchdog column after what residents said was a long wait. After more than a year locked in dispute, a homeowner and a paving company decided to put the past in the past and try resolving their issues again without getting the state involved.

Eileen advised parents to stop wringing your hands over your 401K plans for a minute and take a good look at those 529 college savings plans you started for that college bound kid in your house. The stock market is likely putting a hurt on those 529s, too, but as Eileen told you, you can move that money to a different investment plan or you can put new contributions in a more conservative plan going forward. Has anyone already started doing this or are you going to?

And how about FDR's calming words? Did they help ease your mind and prepare you for another week of possible ups and downs on the stock market? Did his speeches from the 30s still seem appropriate for these times?

I can't help but wonder if his Fireside Chats would have had the same effect on Americans during the current difficult economic times. Yes, what we're experiencing is similar. But we, as a people, have changed a lot. Would FDR's words be as calming now as they were then? Would it have played as well on TV instead of radio? Or are Americans too cynical and divided to listen today? I can't help but wonder if President Bush or either of the presidential hopefuls, John McCain or Barack Obama, spoken these words after the $700 billion rescue/bailout plan was passed, would it have calmed a nation?

"I know that the people of this country will understand this and will also understand the spirit in which we are undertaking this policy. I do not deny that we may make mistakes of procedure as we carry out the policy. I have no expectation of making a hit every time I come to bat. What I seek is the highest possible batting average, not only for myself but for the team." -- May 7, 1933

I know what I think, but what about you? Send us a comment and let us know.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Complaints, Economy, Personal finance, Watchdog
        

Happy Friday, people! This week just felt like it was never going to end, huh? We've had lots to do, though, preparing columns and stories for you dear readers this weekend. We've also been busy hammering away here on the blog. Did you check out our redesigned blog with our happy little family of four? Groovy, yes?

First up on Sunday... If you're still feeling a little dizzy and sick to your stomach over the stock market roller coaster ride we've been riding, what better time, then, to hear some sage words of reassurance? Americans living through the Great Depression had Franklin Roosevelt and his Fireside Chats to get them through the Great Depression. Read some of the words that calmed a nation in Money & Life on Sunday.

Eileen doesn't just stop there. She also tells you how the downturn in the stock market has hit college savings plans. Find out what you should do if your balance is down and your child is heaed to school in a year or two. 

With the economy in a slump, every dollar we spend now counts. Find out what you should do in a home improvement dispute where your money is tied up in a job that's not completed or finished to your satisfaction. Whether you're a homeowner or a business, I'll you in my Consuming Interests column what steps you can take to come to resolution.

And, last but certainly not least, Liz's Watchdog column tackles an unreliable street light that may or may not be fixed. Is it in your neighborhood? Find out on Sunday.

(AP Photo)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Complaints, Consumer protection, Economy, Personal finance, Watchdog
        

Now those boots there might not look like much. They're pretty old and worn. But I love them. Why? Because when I wasn't really making a whole lot of money to support my love for shoes, I found them wandering through C-Mart, a favorite haunt of my sisters and mine for as far back as I can remember.

Whether male or female, you've probably all got one story about your greatest find while shopping. That there is my favorite find. A pair of leather boots from Spain for a mere $10.

It was love at first sight. I don't know exactly how many years I've owned them, but they've traveled all over with me, gotten me through snow storms and more nights out than I can remember. I love them so much, I've had the zipper repaired on each boot at least once so that I could keep wearing them with pants, skirts and whatever struck my fancy at the time.  

Fashion on a budget, that was what C-Mart was all about. It was a business that allowed those of us with expensive taste but no bank to fulfill our little wants for little money.

But C-Mart was not for the faint of heart. You had to have patience to tackle the racks of shoes, the row upon rows of clothing, the piles of sweaters and knick knacks crammed inside its walls. But if you were smart, you got to know the wonderful ladies who worked there. They'd tell you when new merchandise was in, where to look for styles they knew you'd love, and when to come back for better markdowns.

I found a beautiful little black dress made in Paris that way. I spent $50 on what was worth hundreds before C-Mart got a hold of it. It was worth every penny. That little number helped remind an ex what he was missing when we crossed paths at a wedding a couple weeks later.

It's disappointing that at a time when we could all use a place that offers us more for less, we wannabe fashionistas will have to search elsewhere to fulfill our style-on-a-budget fix after C-Mart closes tomorrow. What a shame the new owners didn't know what they had before they changed it because we customers knew what a fabulous gem C-Mart already was for so many years.

Anyone out there have a C-Mart find to share? Commiserate with me here.

(photo by me)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Shopping
        

Democrats in Congress are talking about passing another stimulus package shortly after the election.

The details are still sketchy. But the cost is expected to range from $150 billion to $300 billion.

The money could go to transportation projects, infrastructure, housing, job creation, unemployment insurance, tax cuts and health care for children and seniors. And, yes, more tax rebates.

What do you think? Do we need another stimulus package? And if so, where do you think the money should be spent to do the most good for the econony? Infrastructure? Home loan relief? Tax rebate?

The last rebate was worth up to $600 for singles and twice for married couples. Families with young children got even more.

And if you favor another round of rebate checks, can you suggest a better way to disburse the money? This last one caused a lot of headaches.

(AP Photo)

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Tax rebates
        

Seniors will be happy to note that their Social Security benefits will increase 5.8 percent starting in January, the highest annual cost-of-living adjustment since 1982. The boost comes in response to higher prices for food and energy.

The increase will mean about $60 extra for seniors nationwide. The 786,000 Marylanders receiving Social Security benefits on average as of December 2007 received about $1,020 a month, according to the Social Security Administration.

But a reader called with a question I'd like to answer in case others were wondering, too: what about Medicare premiums for 2009?

It turns out that although Social Security benefits are rising ...

... monthly Medicare premiums for physician services will remain the same, at $96.40 per month --- as long as your income is less than $85,000 (single) or $170,000 (married couple). The Associated Press reports that the prices remain the same because of growth in the Medicare Part B trust fund.

Here's a breakdown of 2009 Medicare premiums no matter what category you fall into.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Healthcare, Social Security
        

Guess what city is 8th on BusinessWeek's list of top cities for riding out a recession, because a majority of jobs are in recession-proof industries such as health care and education?

Yup, it's Baltimore, not far under Arlington, Va. at #1 and the District at #2.

With nearly a quarter of a million workers, Charm City has more than 40 percent of its jobs in strong industries, including 11 percent in education, more than 15 percent in health care and nearly 10 percent in government/public administration jobs.

According to the article:

"Baltimore, once a major port and manufacturing center, has developed more sturdy industries such as medicine, law, and health. Major employers include Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Hospital. The city, however, still struggles with poverty and crime and could face challenges, especially with its financial sector and tourism-related jobs, if the economy continues to worsen."

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Economy
        

For the first time in its history, Sam's Club is offering a $10 membership good for 10 weeks for families and businesses not currently members.

This weekend starting Friday and next (Oct. 24-26), you can sign up for this membership offer during regular club hours. Sam's Club says reasons for joining include saving on upcoming holiday decorations, USDA choice meats, $4 generic drugs, and holiday photo prints as low as 35 cents a piece.

Advantage Membership, which gets you and a family member a card, normally costs $40. A Business Membership, which which is available at a slightly lower cost and provides a company Membership card plus two personal Membership cards, is normally $35. So ten bucks for ten weeks sounds like a pretty good deal to help you get through the holiday season.

Updated: Check out what other experts have to say about the Sam's Club deal as well as ...

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Economy, Shopping
        

Got that mid-afternoon hankering for something caffeinated? Print out this coupon for a free cappuccino at Barnes & Noble and jump-start your day.

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

We've told you about how Whole Foods is trying to help customers save money while shopping at the store facetiously known as Whole Paycheck. 

Now you can print out this Whole Foods coupon to save $5 on purchases of $25 or more. It's valid until Oct. 22.

You can also see a list of Whole Foods sale items, called "Sure Deals."

Special thanks to Multimedia Editor Mary for discovering this savings via Twitter. You can follow wholefoods at  Twitter/wholefoods.

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

(ooph.) Ya hear that sound? That's the sound of me being sucker punched in the tummy by reality.

Thanks for really, really bumming me out that sobering news, reality.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Economy
        

So, if you're looking for some cheap thrills, you might want to consider options that are close to home. Baltimore.org has lots of great deals and discounts for folks looking to explore their surroundings or just entertain some visitors who have landed on their doorstep, compiled by the Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Association.

And it's not just for attractions like the B&O Railroad Museum or Geppi's Entertainment Museum, or the arts such as the Baltimore Opera Company and Centerstage. There are even dining specials such as one free Jewish hot dog with bologna, with the purchase of any sandwich at Attman's.

Some of the coupons are somewhat less attractive ...

like the free meal if it doesn't arrive within 15 minutes of ordering, at the Luminous Restaurant at The Westin BWI Airport.

But other sound worth the cost of opening and printing. Let us know what seems like the best deal for you!

Updated: Thanks to Multimedia Editor Anica for this great tip!

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Travel
        

OK. So have I mentioned to you how absent-minded I am? I forget my cell phone all the time. I forget birthdays. I pour a cup of coffee to bring to work and forget it on the counter at home. I forget a lot of things. So when the writer's strike put all my TV shows on hiatus last season, I forgot to watch TV... or, at least follow the TV shows I used to like to watch.

So I'm finding that now that the new season has started, I've completely forgotten when Monk was on, or when to watch Battlestar Galatica, or when to catch The Closer on TV. Or sometimes I do remember and I'm stuck trying to decide between a TV show and something on Maryland Public Television (yes, I'm low-tech. I don't have a digital recorder). I almost always pick MPT.

Given my dilemma, I gotta say, I'm digging Fancast.com, Comcast's next generation entertainment site which is free for anyone to use.

As I was playing around with the site over the weekend, I was surprised by how many full episodes of shows that it offered. Not only can I now catch up on my current TV shows that I almost always miss, but I can also get all nostalgic and watch some old shows I used to love like Wonder Woman. Sweet. LoooOOooved Wonder Woman and The Incredible Hulk. Ok, and Doogie Howser, MD and the cheesetastic Love Boat (hey. don't judge me.).

Anyhow, what's convenient about Fancast is that you don't have to spend time searching for full episodes of shows online. They're right there listed in alphabetical order. It works along the same lines as hulu.com, so if you like hulu, you'll probably like Fancast. Fancast didn't have HBO series like Deadwood when I last checked, but you can find premium cable channel produced episodes of Sex And the City and Dexter. Still, a pretty good list and a good start, I'd say.

Also, for you multi-tasking technophiles out there, Fancast also links you up with Amazon or iTunes to buy a DVD or connects you with Blockbuster and Netflix to add a movie to your delivery line-up. Also, it also allows you to find out about a movie star or celebrity you're interested in and buy tickets to a movie that's still out on Fandango.

Check it out and let us know what you think.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: CWSotW, Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS, Computers, Technology
        

Super-colossal sale on gift certificates to Baltimore restaurants until 1 p.m. today (Oct. 15) at Restaurant.com!

Here's how it works ordinarily at Restaurant.com: the site sells discounted gift certificates, for example a certificate worth $25 for only $10.

But until 1 p.m. today, use the Restaurant.com coupon code "EIGHTY" at checkout to save 80 percent. That means your $25 value certificate costs only $2!

And be sure to check out the restrictions on minimum purchases, gratuity, alcohol and the like, because they change for different value coupons. For example, a $25 certificate to Abacrombie requires a $35 minimum purchase on two or more entrees and does not include drinks. An 18 percent gratuity will be added. 

UPDATED: missed the discount the first time around? Here's a new code, TREATS, valid until Oct. 31.

(image: Restaurant.com)

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

If you and your spouse didn't get your IRS stimulus check earlier this year, here's some news: it might be in the mail by the end of the month. 

The IRS doled out the tax rebates earlier this year -- up to $600 for eligible singles and up to $1,200 for married couples. But there were many instances where a married woman's name on her tax return didn't match Social Security records, leading the IRS to "inadvertently" omit thousands of married couples from their list of those eligible for the rebate checks, according to its Website. (Our very own Eileen Ambrose covered the problem here at Consuming Interests last month.)

But it looks like the IRS was able to go back and reconcile the records. The government bean counters finally determined that another 260,000 people were eligible to receive the checks. Are you still waiting for yours? Have you pulled your hair out trying to reconcile this with the Feds?

For more information, you'll probably want to check out the IRS's "frequently asked questions" web page dedicated to dealing with the stimulus checks.

The Associated Press was on the case, in terms of following up on the issue with the IRS. If you've been irked by the way this has been handled by the IRS, you probably want to read this article by Jim Salter. Salter reports that people who are due the checks will get a notification letter "within days" and their checks "by the end of the month."

(Photo courtesy of IRS.gov)

Posted by Gus Sentementes at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Tax rebates
        

Is it me or are things starting to feel a teen tiny bit brighter this week? Last week we were down in the dumps. This week, we have a bit o' hope.

The stock market came roaring back on Monday only to drop by 200-plus points on Tuesday as the country waited to see how the feds carry out the rescue plan.

Apple announced plans to start selling a $999 laptop. Still not cheap, by any means, but hey... at least they're acknowledging that there's room to price Mac's a bit more attractively to everyone coveting Apple products, but also watching their wallets.

And last, but not least, gas prices have dropped across the country, says AAA's Fuel Gauge Report. Dude. I filled up my 18-gallon tank for less than $50 on Monday. I think I did a happy Snoopy dance because I can't remember the last I've been able to fill my tank for anything below $65. Lots of Marylanders are feeling a little better about gas prices, too, according to this Mike Dresser story.

This is not to say that I think gas is cheap. I don't, especially when I still find myself reminiscing about the old days when I complained about how high $1.05 a gallon gas seemed back then. And it certainly wouldn't prompt me to go out and buy a gas guzzler because I think prices will stay down.

How many Harford County residents got to take advantage of that gas war in Bel Air last Friday? My good friend Jaime (from high school, not Real Estate Wonk-ette Jamie who sits next to me) said a glitch in the computerized board at WaWa (I hope I'm remember the gas stations right) priced regular gas at $2 by mistake so the 7-11 nearby immediately lowered their price to below $2 to compete.

It caused a feeding frenzy. Jaime said the gas lines snaked around the stations for hours to take advantage of prices you won't see anytime soon.

Anyone get in on that? Give us a shout here. If you're feeling slightly upbeat like we are today, shoot us a comment to share in our slightly more positive attitude. Because, really, you gotta take advantage of the good news while you can. It probably won't last.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Computers, Economy, Gas prices
        

It may be only a dollar shy of a thousand bucks, but that's an important psychological barrier to break for many consumers. Yes, you can now buy a MacBook laptop for $999. 

[ed note: catch our own David Zeiler's Apple a Day expertise on the announcement, details on the new upgrades at Apple, and the somewhat disappointing pricing drop -- DD]  

Some seem to think that dropping the price of the front-line MacBook by $100 in Apple's latest round of upgrades to its laptops will attract more people who've sat on the sidelines, hoping for these coveted little machines to come down in price. For days and weeks, the Web has been abuzz with rumors that Apple would introduce a sub-$900 laptop. That didn't happen today. Instead, consumers hungry for new Apple products saw a few new laptops with some nice touches that may, or may not, make you drool. 

Apple is offering a $999 "white MacBook" that's been "updated" for the budget-conscious crowd; but it has specifications that don't depart much from the previous Macbook incarnation. 

If you were waiting on making a big computer purchase in this tough economy, is this lower price enough to make you walk into an Apple store and plunk down your hard-earned dough? If you're willing to spend more money, then hit the jump for some more details about the pricier new MacBooks (see the photo above), which are catching all the buzz today.

You have to bump up another $300 in price -- to $1,299 -- to get a taste of Mac's newest design elements in the MacBook line.

The most obvious new "wow" feature: the pricier MacBooks are built using Apple's new "unibody" manufacturing process, where they essentially make them out of one "brick" of aluminum. (The $999 MacBook is made of polycarbonate, a very tough plastic.) With this process, Apple is claiming that it can make a beefier computer that, nevertheless, is thinner and lighter -- but don't take my word for it. Check out the official specifications here. They're using the same process for the MacBook Air, that super-thin laptop they debuted several months ago.

Apple claims the computers are slimmer and lighter, and need fewer parts. Other new features include a glass LED monitor, a glass touchpad, and a new NVIDIA graphics processor that promises faster performance for gaming and image manipulation.

Want to read more about the new MacBooks? Here are some links:

* Check out Apple's press release here. Patting themselves on the back, Apple notes their newest MacBooks set a "new standard for environmentally friendly notebooks."

* Matthew Elliott, from over at CNET.com's Crave blog, offers a handy comparison of the new MacBook lineup vs. the previous one -- with screenshots of the new and old pricing. Handy.

* Gearlog, the "gadget guide for geeks, by geeks," does a good job of covering some of the changes to the Mac's higher-end laptops: the MacBook Pros.

* Scientific American also has their own "new MacBooks" story to contribute.

If you're one of those impulse buyers who orders one of these computers online today, drop us a line to let us know why you did so. Were you saving up for weeks/months for this new rollout today?

(MacBook photo courtesy of Apple Inc.)

Posted by Gus Sentementes at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Computers
        

It's time to spend every last dollar left on a Linens 'N Things gift card, lest you be left holding a worthless piece of plastic after today's auction of the company, which declared bankruptcy in May.

Consumer Reports' Money blog warns readers that buyers of bankrupt retailers may not honor gift cards sold by previous owners, although a LNT spokesman felt confident that a new owner would still accept them.

There's certainly some unfortunate recent history with gift cards. Remember in March when Dan Thanh told us about how Sharper Image stopped accepting their gift cards, accepted them at a lower value and then stopped when they went completely under?

Not every business does it --- Boscov's continued to honor its gift cards after the department store declared bankruptcy in August, but it was able to keep some stores open.

Since there's no guarantee, you're better off trading that Linens 'N Things gift card in for some high-thread count sheets or other home item much sooner than later.

(photo: Associated Press)

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Consumer protection, Shopping
        

The tech world's all a-twitter today with the speculation that Apple will announce a new lineup of notebook computers with more <ahem> accessible pricing for consumers in these trying economic times.

Currently, for you to join the Apple laptop club, you'll have to shell out at least $1,099 for one of its Macbooks. In some cases, you can find a Windows-based laptop for half that price -- though it'll probably have fewer bells and whistles.

But there's tons of chatter online right now that the new low price for a Mac notebook will start at $899. A Macbook under a thousand bucks? That would be news.

If you've been on the fence before with buying a Mac laptop, would such a lower price entice you to take a bite of Apple? Hit the jump for some quick links to articles about Apple's announcement today, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. Pacific (1 p.m. Eastern)

* CNET.com will be live-blogging the Apple announcement. You can follow their reports here.

* The Boy Genius Report claims that one of its "trusted Apple ninjas" was able to confirm the $899 figure by poking around on Apple's Website.

* Care to glimpse all the chatter about the expected announcement on Twitter.com? Tap this link for a taste. People are actually counting down the hours to the announcement.

* Fortune's Apple 2.0 blog says an analyst is predicting that the newest, lowest-priced Macbook will start in the $899 to $999 range.

[ed note: Don't forget our very own David Zeiler and his Apple a Day blog... check his post out on Apple's earnings this year to understand why a more affordable laptop is necessary for their tool box. -- DD]

Posted by Gus Sentementes at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Computers
        

So you know how we try to tell you about naughty businesses every week? Well, here's an interesting twist on that thought. There's a new Web site out there that wants to tell you about naughty consumers out there.

Instead of complaining about companies, uradeadbeat.com allows businesses to post the names of naughty people. Maybe someone who stiffed them on a bill. Or a customer who refuses to pay even after the court has ordered them to do so. In this little role reversal, instead of customers bad-mouthing a business, businesses can bad-mouth an individual by name, for a fee.

I can definitely see why something like this has popped up. It's very similar to that other Web site we told you about, DoNotRentTo.com, which allows landlords to post the names of bad renters on the Web site. Both sites, of course, allow the other side a chance to vent against bad consumers... and we are firm believers here that there is such a thing as a bad consumer.

With that said, I'm troubled by what I'm seeing on the so-called Deadbeat List.

Businesses are allowed to post anonymously if they wish. In fact, anyone can post anything without any names attached. One post about a Maryland man, who shall remain nameless here, accused him of not paying child support and running off with thousands of dollars he scammed from a lover. It wsa posted by a "Concerned Citizen."

It makes me think anyone can accuse anyone of anything on the site without proof. All you have to do is provide the person's address or e-mail and uradeadbeat.com send the person an e-mail or postcard notifying them of the accusation.

The Web site does instruct people that if you are listed as an "alleged" deadbeat, you have the chance to respond. But my concern is, what if the target never receives the notification? How can a person respond if they aren't aware of what's being said about them? What if the charge isn't true? What if innocent people are being maligned for malicious and invalid reasons? How would you feel if all I had to do was pay $9.99 to post your name, the state where you live and details of an alleged (and I do emphasize alleged) bad act on your part?

I think this could be a useful Web site, but I do think that there needs to be more work done and some greater level of scrutiny built into the system as a form of checks and balances to make sure uradeadbeat isn't beng used as a vehicle for personal vendettas and false accusations. Let's make sure innocent people aren't being slandered.

I'd warn anyone reading this site to take it with a giant grain of salt. Do some court searches and research first, as you would on a business you're checking up on, to make sure the charges against the individual have merit. It's only fair.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Complaints, Debt, Naughty businesses/NBotW
        

I cruised around Baltimore this past weekend with a new Lenovo laptop (the ThinkPad X310), which I used in my first independent test of Sprint's new XOHM network. (See part 1 from earlier today.) Here are some more of my impressions of Sprint's new way to get online in Charm City:

Sunday, 10:20 a.m., Lake Montebello, Northeast Baltimore: One of my favorite spots in the city. You'll see people jogging, biking, rollerblading, waxing their cars and playing musical instruments here on a nice day. I pulled out a camper chair, sat under a tree, and fired up the Lenovo. It picked up the WiMAX signal at 70 percent strength, which offered very good performance.

The speed test results: 3.246 megabits per second on the download; 1.906 megabits on the upload -- more than enough to watch high-quality online video. The strong connection passed my own video test: I was able to watch a show on Hulu.com and another on Amazon.com, plus do additional Web surfing. Mobile broadband while chillin' at Lake Montebello? Very cool.

Sunday, 11:10 a.m., the Pagoda at Patterson Park, Southeast Baltimore: While sitting on the steps of the pagoda, I used the Lenovo to pick up several public Wi-Fi networks, plus XOHM -- a connection that was again at 70 percent strength. Speedtest.net showed me how fast the connection moved: 3.068 megabits per second on the download, 2.112 megabits on the download.

Huh? The upload speed got faster? That's interesting.

Sunday, 11:40 a.m., Patterson Perk coffee shop on Eastern Avenue, Southeast Baltimore: Just down the hill not too far away from the pagoda is a coffee shop, where I stopped for an iced soy chai latte. Very tasty and robust.

The WiMAX connection inside the shop was also strong: At 11:44 a.m., I clocked it at 3.526 megabits per second on the download, and 1.501 megabits on the upload -- well within XOHM's "high performance" range. Five minutes later, I did another speed test and got noticeably different -- but still good -- results: 2.846 megabits on the download and 1.272 megabits on the upload. There was some "hitching" in the videos I tried to watch, but it smoothed out after a few moments. (By comparison, my Dell laptop's Verizon EV-DO card was only pulling in 331 kilobits per second on the download and 111 kilobits on the upload -- so XOHM was blowing it away.)

But suddenly, XOHM just dropped me -- and I hadn't even finished my iced latte yet. I reconnected to XOHM and surfed the Internet again for another 45 minutes, with no problems, before leaving for Federal Hill.

Sunday: 2:40 p.m., Federal Hill Park, downtown Baltimore: After a leisurely lunch break with my wife, we mosied over to Federal Hill Park, where I sat on a bench overlooking the Inner Harbor with the laptop. The city's downtown skyline figures prominently in XOHM's marketing materials, so I figured I'd test it while staring at that same skyline.

Ironically, the XOHM service at Federal Hill park was the spottiest of all the areas I had tested. While trying to do my first speed test and watch the pleasure boaters float around the harbor, I got dropped by XOHM. Over the course of about 45 minutes, XOHM would drop me four more times. Not cool. When I was able to get online and do a speed test, I measured a download pace of 2.214 megabits per second and an upload rate of 2.208 megabits.

At this rate, XOHM struggled to deliver two videos at the same time (via Hulu.com and Amazon.com). And at one point, Internet Explorer just crashed. It got to the point where I was having trouble discerning if some of the problems were due to XOHM or to Windows. Interestingly, subsequent speed tests showed that upload speeds were actually faster than download speeds, which was unusual. It made me think that XOHM still has some work to do fixing some of the patches in the downtown area.

Monday, 11:12 a.m., my desk at the Baltimore Sun building, 501 N. Calvert St.: Amazingly, the Lenovo is catching a WiMAX signal deep within our newsroom. I sit about 40 feet from the nearest window and I'm picking up a modest signal. Sprint officials told me they've designed their network to penetrate, on average, about 15 feet into buildings, so catching XOHM on a laptop where I sit is a pleasant surprise. Sure, it's only 1.623 megabits per second on the download and a measly 62 kilobits on the upload, according to my speed test -- but it's something, and it's steady. I'm checking email and watching videos on YouTube with no problem. It's moving extremely slow in pulling up videos at Hulu.com -- but they work fine once they get going.

My thoughts on XOHM, overall: It has tremendous promise -- and its share of hurdles to leap over. It obviously needs to finish building out the rest of its network in Baltimore for most consumers to even begin to seriously consider using it regularly. The network has to offer a consistent experience to its customers -- and Sprint knows that. See the map of the network's current coverage below:

If it can't offer a seamless coverage experience for customers, than its monthly fees might have to come down a little. [ed note: I made this point to Barry West last week. -- DD] Offering a mobile, wireless broadband service in a metropolitan area shouldn't mean you should have to get into your car and drive your laptop to a spot that catches the WiMAX signal.

That said, it's not quite fair to be overly-critical of its coverage so far, since Sprint just launched the network two weeks ago. It worked very well in most places I could see myself naturally wanting to use it. Plus, remember how long it took for the major cellphone companies to build out their cellular networks? Years. Many years. Sprint's pushing to cover 1.3 million people in the Baltimore area by the end of next year. It's an ambitious goal.

If you're not in the market for a new laptop that comes WiMAX-enabled, then you'll probably be using one of the plug-in devices for your laptop. Stay tuned for more on WiMAX.

(Photos by Karen Sentementes)

Posted by Gus Sentementes at 3:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Computers, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

This past weekend, I got my first solo taste of Baltimore's new way to surf the Internet wirelessly -- with a Lenovo laptop that incorporates the new technology. The new network is called XOHM, and it's Sprint's wireless broadband network built specifically for heavy-duty Web surfing using WiMAX  technology. No, it's not a new cellphone network -- rather, it's more like a massive Wi-Fi hotspot covering most of Baltimore.

To use the network, you can either buy a $79.99 modem for your home or a $59.99 ExpressCard to plug in to your laptop. But if you're looking to buy a new laptop soon, there's a chance you might end up purchasing one that's WiMAX-ready. Lenovo introduced five laptops  last week that come with the new WiMAX chipset built in, and they sent us one to test. I played around with the ThinkPad X301, which is selling at a base price of $2,556.

I took it to some of my usual haunts around Baltimore, from the Waverly Farmer's Market to Patterson Park to Federal Hill. We're the first city in the country to get a taste of this next-generation network. So how does it rate? Hit the jump for my review.

First off, for all you Lenovo fans out there: my review will focus more on using Sprint's new WiMAX network rather than the laptop itself. The laptop we sampled had some extra bells and whistles, including 4 GB of RAM memory (standard is 1 GB), neat security features (fingerprint recognition, anyone?), and a DVD drive. Getting it WiMAX-enabled tacks on another $60. This laptop was fast, sleek and thin -- and muscular enough to easily perform with the Windows Vista Business edition.

I took this bad boy around Charm City and here was my experience:

Saturday, 9:50 a.m. Greg's Bagels in Belvedere Square (North Baltimore): It was a busy morning for these masterful bagel makers. I ordered up an everything bagel with cream cheese and Jail Island Smoked Salmon. While chomping away, I punched up Lenovo's "Access Connections" feature, which picked up the free Wi-Fi of another business. But WiMAX was a no-go.

This wasn't a surprise, since I checked XOHM's online map of their current coverage areas before I left my house, and saw that a large swath of North Baltimore wasn't covered yet.

Saturday, 11 a.m. Waverly Farmer's Market, near East 33rd Street (North/Central Baltimore): My wife and I picked up some fresh veggies and then sat on a median strip on 33rd Street to cheer on the thousands of marathon runners who jogged past us for the next 90 minutes. I opened the Lenovo again and it picked up several encrypted and public Wi-Fi networks in the area, but no XOHM. (With my other laptop, a Dell with a Verizon EV-DO cellular card, I was able to get online to check XOHM's map and saw that I was sitting on the edge of the network as it curved through Waverly.)

To juggle the various ways a computer user now has to get online, Lenovo has a little program called "Access Connections." I noticed the program wasn't responding well, so I decided to reboot the laptop. Eventually, I would unscientifically conclude that if I put the laptop in "sleep" mode and reawakened it, the "Access Connections" program got hinky; if I put it in "hibernate" mode, and then fired it up again, it ran smoothly. 

The reboot did the trick. I connected to XOHM and tested the speed of my connection (using Speedtest.net for this and all subsequent tests). My download speed was a very fast 4.223 megabits per second, and my upload time was a modest 449 kilobits per second. (XOHM says performance can vary, but they try for a "high performance" range of 2 to 4 megabits per second on the download, and 0.5 to 1.5 megabits per second on the upload.)

That fast download speed -- far better than my wired DSL connection at home -- allowed me to watch videos on Hulu.com and Amazon.com -- at the same time -- plus do additional web surfing in other browser windows. Pretty darn good, I thought, while I Twittered about the marathon and ate an almond cheese danish while watching runners go by.

[ed note: Find out where in Baltimore Gus went next with the Lenovo in a post to come -- DD]

(photo by Karen Sentementes)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Computers, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

Here's a bonus cheap tip this week: during Spa Week, enjoy $50 spa treatments at 30 spas and salons around Maryland (13 in Baltimore or the five surrounding counties).

Register for the site, and indulge in discounted facials, massages or mani-pedis from Monday (Oct. 13) through Sunday (Oct. 19).

You better book early, though. The event started today and I'm sure Spa Week appointments fill up fast. 

I already know which treatments I'll be trying ...

none of them.

For a minute, I was very tempted by the promise of a discount, but these services are not a regularly scheduled part of my beauty regimen, so spending money just to try something out won't save me much dough.

Also, none of the spa Web sites list their original prices for these treatments, so it's not clear how much of a deal this even is. 

Anyone have a better sense on what the going rate for a massage is in the Baltimore-Washington region? Please weigh in.

(photo: Amy Davis/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

And you thought there was nothing for you in that $700 billion rescue package... That was pretty useful information that Eileen told you about, wasn't it? There's mortgage debt forgiveness, a higher income amount for the alternative minimum tax, and two education tax breaks just to name a few to help out every day people cope in these tough times. 

If you missed it, check out Eileen's personal finance column for the other tidbits available to taxpayers in the rescue plan. 

Did you catch Liz's updates for prior Watchdog queries? She found the owner of that SUV that residents of the Park Circle neighborhood thought was abandoned. The clocktower in Govans is one step closer to telling the right time. Liz got the MTA to finally put up that bus shelter in Northeast Baltimore that Edna Moore Bedford wanted to rest in while she waited. Sadly, Ms. Bedford passed on July 25, ten days after Liz's initial column ran. Thanks to Ms. Beford, though, her fellow seniors will have a place to sit under shelter while they wait for the bus.

And finally, I know I can't be the only person getting these e-mail scams offering me money from the likes of people in Tanzania, Nigeria and even officials from the "IRS."

Why is it those letters are always full of misspellings? Why is it they always have terrible punctuation? Why do they mostly come from overseas? And does anyone out there know someone who has fallen for one of these scams? They're just so elaborate and over-the-top, it's hard not to chuckle when you read them.

Happy Monday everyone. 

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Scams, Taxes, Watchdog
        

If you've been angry about this whole $700 billion bailout and how it doesn't really help you much personally, maybe this little bit of news may make you feel better.

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. and Department of Education Secretary Margaret Spellings announced today that the Administration is going to take a number of steps to support the student loan market.

As we all know, the credit crunch isn't just affecting mortgages, auto loans and credit cards. It's also hurt student loans. 

Here's part of the text of what Paulson and Spellings released, explaining that they recognize that education is the foundation of a strong American workforce: 

Earlier this week, President George W. Bush signed H.R. 6889, the extension of the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act. We appreciate Congress providing the Department of Education, in coordination with the Treasury Department and the Office of Management and Budget, renewed temporary powers to use federal funds to ensure students and families continue to have access to student loans

The loan purchase and participation interest programs implemented over the last few months have helped ensure that Federal student loans were available to students enrolling in postsecondary institutions for the 2008-2009 school year, and Federal student lending is exceeding last year's pace.

Our financing program has supported just over 40 percent of the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) loans that have been disbursed this year. Over 800 lenders have enrolled in our loan purchase program. Almost $51 billion of federally guaranteed loans have been originated for the current school year, up from approximately $45 billion for the same period last year.

Over the next few months, schools and lenders will be making decisions for the 2009-2010 school year. Using our newly extended authorities, the Administration is moving aggressively to support the continued availability of funding for federal student loans in the next school year with the goal of restoring the government guaranteed student loan market to normal operations. We are working on an expedited basis and will make further announcements in the coming weeks.

And on that somewhat positive note, I wish you all a good weekend. 

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: College/Financial aid, Economy, Loans
        

All Hallow's Eve is still weeks away, and you (or your offspring, or your pets) might not even have any plans yet.

But you can save yourself some cash by thinking of an idea now and putting it together, rather than waiting until the last minute and plunking down your hard-earned cash in exchange for whatever is leftover at the seasonal Halloween store. [ed note: ok, those costumes to the left aren't homemade, but they made me laugh. so there. -- DD]

Planning ahead of time also allows you to get the best deals on essential supplies. No need to pay top dollar for aluminum foil for your Sputnik headpiece, hours before you head to a party ... instead, shop around and save!

You also don't need to be super handy or even own a sewing machine --- there are plenty of no-sew options. You can do wonders with fuseable tape, spray adhesives and other quick fasteners, according to sewing.org. 

If you do go the DIY route, Consumer Reports reminds everyone to think of safety when making your own Halloween costumes. Consider the weather, and make sure to make eyeholes large and add reflective tape to dark fabrics so they can be seen at night.

Here are some links with Halloween costume ideas, some no-sew:  

--- Parenting blogger Kate shared some easy costume ideas from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

--- About.com's Family Crafts site has a compendium of Halloween costume patterns and ideas, including recipes for face paint and fake blood.

--- Martha Stewart's site has a lot of beautifully executed Halloween costumes that seem ... somewhat ambitious to make at home. The site's a great source of inspiration, at the very least. 

*Okay, perhaps some things are worse than paying too much for a bad outfit ...

Making your child wear a toilet costume is terrible. And the site suggests you can pull it out year-round as a contemporary dunce cap.

Shocking.

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

It's been a tough week, yes? The stock market is waaaaay down. We might be headed for another depression. And C-Mart is closing (ok, maybe I'm the only one who is really bummed about that). 

(sigh)

But look, if you find yourself with the money or need to shop soon, think about putting that money to good use while you're indulging in a little pick-me-up. Hopewell Cancer Support, a community for cancer patients, is holding the 2nd Shop for Hope event from Oct. 16 to Oct. 25. More than 50 local merchants along the Falls Road corridor are offering customers a 10 percent discount and they'll make a 10 percent donation to benefit Hopewell. Proceeds benefit programs and services for individuals living with cancer, their families and caretakers.

Shop for Hope features 52 stores from Green Spring Station through Hampden’s 36^th Street. Participating merchants will honor Shop For Hope coupons offering shoppers a 10% discount for goods or services. Individuals who support HopeWell merchants through Shop For Hope get an added bonus as their names are entered into a drawing for valuable prizes including museum memberships, retail store and restaurant gift certificates. The drawing will take place at the conclusion of the campaign. At the end of the promotional period, merchants will donate 10% of their sales to HopeWell.

See that? You can do some retail therapy, maybe get a head start on your holiday shopping, help out a good cause and give a little much needed boost to our ailing economy.

Check out the list of Shop for Hope merchants here.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Healthcare, Shopping
        

 I had two questions on my mind this week as Gus and I were covering XOHM Sprint Nextel's WiMAX launch at the Bond Street Wharf in Fells Point on Wednesday.

The first question was something that had our friend, Mario Armstrong, that digital dynamo who hosts tech shows on NPR and WYPR, scratching his head. And the second question is something my work spouse and resident tech guru, Gus, has been trying to find the answer for since we heard about WiMAX, which is like one big "hotspot" for wireless Internet connectivity.

Now, we realize the actual XOHM WiMAX launch happened on Sept. 29. But c'mon. The official launch on Wednesday was quite a big to-do. Filled with lots of top executives from Sprint, Nokia, Intel, Samsung and the like. They rented a $1.6 million house, water taxis, Kali's Court and more to show off their baby. It was a big event that attracted press from across the country. Lots of ubertechgeek eyeballs all trained on our great, big little city, Baltimore.

And yet --- Mario, please correct me if I am wrong since I didn't have time to hang around after the press conference -- I didn't spot a single high level politician anywhere in sight to support the event. Odd? Methinks so.

This was a big event that put Baltimore on the map. This is a hot new technology. Where was the love, B-more?

If you were there and spotted a politico, clue me in. Maybe I missed them standing behind a tree or something. 

The second question was something that Gus was wondering about, and one that would affect both of us since we both use Apple products. With all these other companies jumping on board the WiMAX train, what's up with Apple? Will Apple grace us with some nifty WiMAX gadgets any time in the near future?

Barry West, chief tech officer and President of XOHM Sprint Nextel, had an answer for us after the presser:

"I hope [Steve] Jobs will wake up one day and say, 'God, I really made a big mistake. I want to put WiMAX in Apple products."

So there you have it. An answer to our Apple question, sorta. I guess we won't be seeing WiMAX-enabled Apple products anytime soon. But maybe Apple's Genius CEO will one day wake up and make the leap, and maybe one day he'll let iPhone owners pick their own service provider.

Ah. Dreamer, I am. 

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cellular/Landline/Voice over Internet, Computers, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

I don't really have a post to go with this. But I just thought this photo of a dude on a WiMAX equipped Segway (taken by my good friend and ultra-talented photographer Jed) was wicked cool.

Talk about being connected on the go. Imagine tooling around town on one of those with the Internet at your fingertips.

If I sound a little taken with the technology, it's because there were some really interesting things going on at XOHM Sprint Nextel's official WiMAX launch yesterday in Fells Point, as Gus told you yesterday.

Jed says the Segway guy is Keshab Lamichhane of Intel. The guy taking video of him is Matt Hamblen of the good folks over at Computerworld.

(Sun Photographer Jed Kirschbaum)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Computers, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

Card issuers are paying attention to a number of different factors to predict cardholder risk now. If you're deemed a high risk, it could push your rates up.

Hardekofp says the following are other factors that could affect your rates:

Your credit score is low or was lowered recently. 

You balance is too close to your credit limit on your card or other cards -- even if it was the issuer who lowered your limit and caused your balance to be closer to your limit.

Many card issuers still give themselves the right to change rates at any time for any reason. Read your contract. "Any time for any reason." Sometimes it's random, but sometimes it could actually be for a legitimate reason like economic market conditions.

Hardekofp suggests asking your card issuer to lower your rate. If it doesn't work, continue building a good payment history and credit score and ask again. It never hurts to ask.

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Credit cards, Debt, Economy
        

[That there photo to the right is a Lenovo X300. It's WiMAX ready. We meant to tell you yesterday about the WiMAX gadgets galore available to consumers now, but there weren't enough hours in the day. Without further ado, I'm turning this post over to Gus to tell you more. -- DD]

For now in Baltimore, there have been only two ways to get a taste of Sprint's new XOHM network -- a broadband system that's basically turning the city into one big "hotspot" for wireless Internet connectivity. You could buy a little plug-in device for your laptop at $59.99 -- or a home modem for $79.99 -- and then pick a service plan that suits you over at www.xohm.com.
 
But, at Sprint's big launch party for XOHM yesterday in Fells Point, we learned of several new laptops that will hit the market that will come with the WiMAX chipset already embedded inside. This means, if you buy one of these laptops from Lenovo, Acer, Asus or Toshiba, you won't need to also purchase the $59.99 plug-in device to tap into the Sprint's XOHM in Baltimore.

Intel designed a new chipset that catches both WiMAX and Wi-FI signals, and will be pushing them into the hands of these computer-makers. Other heavyweights, including Sony, Panasonic, and Dell, have also committed to incorporating the WiMAX/Wi-Fi chipset in their computers in the near future, according to an Intel marketing director I spoke with yesterday at the XOHM launch.
 
Getting major computer manufacturers to embed the WiMAX chipset is important for the Sprint, but it's also good for consumers. In the future, when you go out to buy a new laptop, there's a good chance that it will already come WiMAX-ready. So, catching the WiMAX signal and registering for the service will be a far more integrated experience.
 
So far, these four computer makers are only selling their WiMAX-ready computers online. In most cases, you'll be able to place an order but you may have to wait a few weeks to receive your new toy. I've done my best to track some links to the products for you, in case you're interested at looking at their specifications. These companies are counting on WiMAX getting traction with consumers who want to "future-proof" their next laptop purchase, by making sure it's WiMAX-ready. So far, XOHM is only available in Baltimore, but Sprint's goal is to cover about 200 million Americans with the network in the next two years. In Baltimore, the company is about three-quarters of the way complete with building out the network.
 
Without further ado, let's take a look at some of these new laptops that should work seamlessly with Sprint's XOHM in Baltimore:

Lenovo has four WiMAX-enabled laptops for sale today. Here are the product series ID's: X301, T-400, SL300 and SL500. They range in price from around $720 to $3,000, depending on the model and add-ons you choose, I was told yesterday. A fifth type, the Y530, will be available for sale later this month, and the company has plans to introduce 6 more laptops that are WiMAX-enabled in the near future, according to David Critchley, a product marketing manager for Lenovo I spoke with yesterday. Kudos to Lenovo for actually having an easy to navigate Website that points you exactly to the WiMAX computers. Check the Lenovo WiMAX laptops out here. The lowest-priced Thinkpad was actually at $570.

Acer apparently has two laptops for sale that are WiMAX-enabled. But you'd never know it from their Website. I can't find the two WiMAX models there. I found a 16-inch Acer Aspire 6930-6771  laptop for sale on Amazon.com and it was priced at $941.99. The other model apparently is the Acer Aspire 4930-6862.  

Asus has a 15.4 inch laptop that's up for sale, and priced for $1,399 on Amazon.com. It also looks like they'll have a second WiMAX laptop hitting the market soon. Check out the Asus WiMAX promo site here.

Toshiba has a WiMAX laptop that will start shipping soon from its ToshibaDirect.com Website. It's an "ultra portable" that weighs about 4.8 pounds, has a 13.3 inch screen, and is designed for consumers and small businesses. Philip Osako, a product marketing director for Toshiba, told me yesterday it will be priced at around $1,199. I was told that the computer would be "up for sale" as of yesterday, but it looks like the Toshiba folks haven't enabled the ordering on their Website.

If you find better and more specific information about any of the computers I mentioned above, just leave a note for us below. Thanks!

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Complaints, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

Given the direction of the economy, your friends and loved ones might not be able to pick up the bill for a pricey birthday dinner.  But plan appropriately for your natal anniversary, and you might be able to enjoy up to two weeks of freebies and discounts!

The preparation should begin with arming yourself with a very important tool: the secondary e-mail address. 

Everyone should maintain a different e-mail address to use to register for newsletters, sign up for discounts and other activities that might create a spam snowball in your inbox. [ed note: really great point, Liz. -- DD]

Create a gmail or yahoo mail account for just this purpose.You don't have to check it every day, or even every month --- just when you're in the market for a discount that might be available. That keeps the temptation to shop at bay.

After all, a reminder that your favorite big-box bookstore is offering a 20 percent off coupon might entice you to stop in on a whim and make an impulse purchase, whereas just checking for a coupon whenever you're truly in the market for a bestseller or a gift keeps the temptation at bay.

Secondly, be sure to double-check the offer for any caveats or exceptions. You never know --- you might have to print out a coupon, declare that it's your birthday at the beginning of a transaction or find out that the offer is only valid for the young'uns --- ages 13 or 16 and younger.

Don't forget to bring your ID, like Jenna Bush (second item) or Michael Phelps

And as the Dollar Duo at the Minneapolis Star Tribune advise, don't be shy about asking a favorite retailer if they have a birthday promotion. You won't lose anything by asking!  And businesses make up for the investment through sales to the rest of the people in your party and any other splurging you do in the course of your transaction --- spending on drinks, appetizers, desserts or other extras you might not otherwise indulge in.

Here's a list of a few of our readers' favorite deals, as well as other sources:

--- As Danielle noted, Cafe Hon offers free dinner on your birthday for signing up for its Repeat Rewards or "birfday club". 

--- Coldstone's not the only place to get a chilly treat. Sign up for Baskin Robbins' birthday club and get a coupon for 2.5 oz. of free ice cream, or Friendly's birthday club, as well.

--- free movie rentals from hollywood video and safeway? http://www.bargainshare.com/index.php?showtopic=684

--- Get a free birthday entree at Austin Grill by signing up for their eClub, and a "big surprise" on your birthday from Qdoba Mexican Grill for signing up for theirs. Quizno's gives customers a free cookie on their birthday for signing up, and Famous Dave's BBQ and Damon's Grill also offer free birthday gifts as well.

--- Get a free something-something from Fuddruckers by signing up for the Fuddsclub. 

--- The Cheesecake Factory offers diners a free scoop of ice cream with a candle for meals.

--- And don't forget the birthday deals, discounts and specials I listed earlier this week!

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal
        

I thought you might appreciate some insight as to how Comcast is servicing their long-time internet customers. Here's an online chat I had with one of their rep's as I tried to learn how I could monitor my bandwidth usage and avoid being penalized for exceeding their new limit. To summarize - they do not provide customers with access to their current measurements of our bandwidth usage, yet they will penalize us if we exceed it.

Live Chat

Status: Analyst Cariza is here and your issue status is: working

Problem: How can I monitor my monthly bandwidth usage?

End Session

user Ken_ has entered room

Ken(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:38:37 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

How can I monitor my monthly bandwidth usage?

analyst Cariza has entered room

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:38:45 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

Hello Ken_, Thank you for contacting Comcast Live Chat Support. My name is Cariza. 

Please give me one moment to review your information.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:38:53 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

Hello. How are you today?

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:39:08 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

Hi Cariza. How are you?

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:39:38 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I'm doing fine. Thank you for asking. How about you?

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:39:51 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I'm great! Life is good.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:40:09 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

It's nice to hear that you are great!

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:40:14 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I can help you with that and I am going to run a health check on your account todday

to make sure everything is performing as it should.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:40:15 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

For Security purposes, I may need to verify your security. 

Can I have your Account holder's full name and your account number.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:40:52 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

So - I understand comcast has a new monthly bandwidth limit. 

I just want to know how I can keep track of what I've used each month.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:41:17 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

<DELETED FOR PRIVACY>.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:42:09 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

Thank you for that.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:42:35 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))> Here is the link that will help you in monitoring your usage:http://manageengine.adventnet.com/products/netflow/monitor-bandwidth.html?adwords33bm&CampaignID=104228422&CampaignID=NFA_Search_US&CampaignID=20072000&gclid=CJyxmqv0mJYCFQmdnAodjC9i7g

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:43:10 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

Was I able to provide you the information that you needed?

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:43:31 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

ok. Is this a comcast product and does comcast guarentee that it is accurate?

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:44:26 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

For now, comcast has no bandwidth meter available for you but I assure you that, 

that is accurate for most of our customer are using that meter.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:44:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

oh... this is a tool that I must install. I thought that I could have access to comcast numbers.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:44:46 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

You need to download it in your end.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:45:01 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I presume Comcast must be tracking my bandwidth, 

can't I just get access to what you are recording for my usage each month?

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:46:05 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I do apologize but your issue is already beyond my scope of work. 

We currently do not have any information regarding your issue 

but I suggest that you use the tool that I have provided you to track or monitor your bandwidth usage.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:46:45 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

ok, i understand. Is there anyone that you can escalate this too?

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:46:47 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

Cocmast has no bandwidth meter for available for you at this moment.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:47:57 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I'm very sorry but as I check it to our supervisor 

the only way for you to track your bandwidth usage you must install a meter for it 

and for now comcast does not offer that meter.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:48:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

ok, thanks so much for trying. I appreciate your help.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:48:33 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I suggest that you install the meter that I have provided you so that 

you will be able to monitor your usage.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:48:47 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

You are most welcome.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:49:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

For your notes, you can record that I really want to know what Comcast think's I'm using, 

not what I think.

Ken_(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:49:30 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

bye now. have a great evening.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:50:31 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>

I just want to set an expectation that I have already solved this issue 

by providing you the bandwidth meter that you can install to measure your usage 

for comcast does not offer the meter at this moment.

Cariza(Wed Oct 08 2008 20:50:32 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>   

I am happy that I was able to help you in resolving this issue.

If you do not have any other concerns, you may properly close this interaction by clicking on the 

End Session button. You may receive a 3-question survey after this chat. 

Kindly take some time to fill it up as we value your feedback about our services. 

Thank you for contacting Comcast. Have a great day!

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 6:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS, Complaints, Computers, Technology
        

If you want to jump on the WiMAX bandwagon, you can buy the devices online at XOHM.com, Amazon, Nokia, and NewEgg. You can also by it by phone or visit one of the kiosks in local shopping malls or find them at local independent retailers. Once you buy the device (sorta like buying a cup of coffee), you can take it home, plug it in, go to the Web site and sign up for the level of service you want (by the day, month or lifetime).

West said much thought was put into making the sign up process as easy as possible for consumes. 

Asked why there are still gaps or "bubbles" in the Baltimore networks for users, West responded that the system is three-quarters of the way into build out and that "We're not trying to go head-to-head with cellular services today." As the build out continues, those bubbles will improve, he said.

I also asked West after the press conference about the current price points for the devices, which can cost $60 to $80, and whether the daily-monthly-lifetime rates were affordable for people in this ailing economy? Why not charge less to get more people to try out this new technology, in other words, especially since it's still only currently avaiable in Baltimore? What about people who want to try it out, but are currently locked into contracts with other providers?

"Eventually, you'll get out of those contracts," West said. "You will want to since we are going to grow this out. This might not be the right time to adopt this for people who are still in contracts or who are highly mobile. But for small businesses in Baltimore and for people who only need to connect in the city, this is a great deal, an amazing deal."

If WiMAX performs as promised, this could really change the way we connect to others in our personal and business lives. West talked at length after the presser about how WiMAX-enabled appliances could help cut short those exasperating service calls where you have to make a service appointment, a technician visits your house, diagnoses the problem, orders the part, makes an appointment to come back and then fixes your washer. With WiMAX, West said he sees the day coming when the tech can just diagnose your problem without a home visit. 

That will be the day. And to think, as West said, "Just remember... It started here today."

Very exciting news. Anyone out there who is using WiMAX already? We want to hear from you. 

(photo by me)

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 1:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Computers, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

Wondering whether it's worth it to replace your old refrigerator with a more energy-efficient model?

The Energy Star program does the heavy lifting for you with the Refrigerator Retirement Savings Calculator.

The calculator is part of the Recycle My Old Fridge campaign, a program designed to help you switch from the old appliance to something that won't drain your wallet to run.

The site also has links to recycling programs and watch inspiring stories of why you should switch to an energy-efficient fridge.

Check out this entry from a Marylander ...  but I thought Ben Franklin was from Philadelphia?

(photo: Andre Chung/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Greenies
        

Live report from our roaming tech guru Gus -- DD:

Sprint's throwing a party right now in Fells Point, where they're formally kicking off the launch of their new wireless broadband network in Baltimore, known as XOHM. They're using it as an opportunity to announce some new products from computer makers, which consumers will be able to buy. For now, consumers with laptops can only tap the XOHM network in Baltimore by buying a plug-in device that catches the wireless signal.

But today, Lenovo, a major computer maker, is announcing that they'll "immediately" be selling a new lineup of their Thinkpad and Notebook PCs that are WiMAX-enabled. (Need a refresher in WiMAX? Here's the gist: Sprint's XOHM network is based on WiMAX technology, which -- in the simplest way of thinking about it -- is expected to cover the Baltimore area with wireless Internet connectivity. Sorta like the "hotspot" at your local coffee shop, but bigger.)

So Lenovo and other computer makers -- we'll let you know who else a little later -- have gotten aboard the WiMAX bandwagon and are starting to make computers and o

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Computers, Technology, WiMAX Watch
        

Time is running out.

You have until Oct. 15 to file a 2007 tax return if you want to get a tax rebate this year. Miss the deadline, and you will still be able to claim the tax rebate - on NEXT year's return 

More than 74,000 Maryland retirees and disabled veterans — including about 16,200 in Baltimore — have yet to file, according to the latest figures from the IRS. Many of these taxpayers usually don’t have to file a return because of low-income and may not be aware that they need to file a return to collect a check.

The rebate is worth at least $300 per person for those with qualifying income.

The IRS and other groups are offering free tax preparation for retirees and disabled veterans. Check out the IRS locations online or call 800-829-1040. Those with incomes under $54,000 can file for free online using Free File on the IRS Web site.

Or, call First Call for Help at 800-492-0618 to find free tax help or seek assistance through AARP’s Tax-Aide program at 888-687-2277 or at the AARP Web site.

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Tax rebates