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Black Money Matters
Rethink Bling PDF Print E-mail
Written by Kandise Lucas, PhD.   
While working out at the gym, I recently saw a commercial by the Saturn Automobile Company in which the theme was to “rethink” commonly held concepts within our society.  One of the perceptions that we were instructed to rethink was the idea of what “bling” really means.

For most of us, the term “bling” symbolizes materialism and the display of excessive wealth at its most extravagant levels.  It is a superficial and materialistic term that we hear everywhere, from the radio to the pulpit.  It is considered to be a positive term in our society and a goal for which everyone should try to achieve.

We have all heard comments like, “she is bling blinging!” when we see a female with diamonds and gold dripping from her ears, hands, wrists and anywhere else that is humanly possible.  So what if her attitude is revolting or her credit cards are maxed out in her pursuit of  “bling”.



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529- Sounds Like A Plan PDF Print E-mail
Written by Administrator   
“Sounds like a plan”.  My cousin, who came right from Port au Prince, Haiti, learned this phrase from his seventh-grade teacher, upon arriving to the United States.  And as you embark upon getting your child’s educational needs in perspective, you should definitely consider a 529 Plan to help you fund your child’s college education.

What is a 529 Plan, you may ask? It's an education savings plan operated by a state or educational institution designed to help families set aside funds for future college costs.  The reason that these are quickly gaining in popularity is because they offer the “investor” a great opportunity to save for college with great tax benefits.  

First of all, while the amount that you contribute may not be tax deductible, the amount you contribute can grow tax-deferred, much like a Roth IRA.  Each state treats 529 Plans differently so, it’s important to find out how that can benefit you as well.  Secondly, the process is fairly simple.  You simply complete an enrollment form, make your contributions to the plan and the 529 Plan Administrator handles it from there.  Unless you take out funds from the plan, there isn’t even any statement that you receive at the end of the year.  It’s a very hands-off kind of arrangement- in a good way.



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I Feel This Small... PDF Print E-mail
Written by Administrator   
Dear Gil,

Hello.  Well,...I am a rising senior in college.  I was sitting at home tonight, reading an article online about a guy who started his own successful company at the age of 16.  Now, I am thinking to myself, "...ok, this guy has  seemingly financially secure future...so what's your plan!!!???"

The first thought that came to mind was stocks.  But, I know absolutely nothing about them.  I would like to know, where would I begin?  What should I do first?  Do you have any advice for me?

Signed,


Ms. B



Dear Ms. B.,

As cheesy as this may sound, the words of my father-in-law ring true, "Those who fail to plan, plan to fail".  And while life is not completely summed up in those words, it does carry a lot of weight, especially in financial matters.


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Garnishment? No Thanks! PDF Print E-mail
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Written by Administrator   
Dear Gil,

I have been notified of garnishment from a credit card company.  I don't have the finances to pay this company. Is there antything I can do to avoid garnishment?`



Signed,

"Doubting" Thomas





Dear Thomas,

I would contact the credit card company and see if they are willing to settle on the case for a fraction of the outstanding bill.  Many times credit card companies are more than willing to settle for 50% of the original debt for a couple of reasons:


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