Melody Avecilla

A ‘Common Cent$’ approach to financial education

Sunday, 23 November 2008 21:52 Melody Avecilla

People today have more choices than ever when it comes to managing their money. But a State Farm survey found fewer than one-quarter of young adults (24 percent) claim to have a good understanding of how to invest in the stock market or mutual funds and fewer than half pay off their credit card(s) every month or have a rainy-day fund.

Only a few states require students to complete a financial literacy course. Experts say money should be a bigger part of the curriculum.

Keep your cool on the road

Monday, 17 November 2008 01:40 Melody Avecilla

Does it seem to you that the highway is a much more hostile place than it used to be? Do you notice a lot of rude drivers tailgating you, cutting you off, blocking you when you want to pass, weaving from lane to lane to beat the flow of traffic, maybe even making unfriendly gestures?

If so, you’re not alone. "aggressive driving" has become one of America’s most talked-about traffic safety issues. On occasion it may lead to "road rage"—use of violence to settle a dispute related to driving.

Is CD laddering right for you?

Sunday, 09 November 2008 19:02 Melody Avecilla

WITH the recent volatility in the stock market, I often speak with people who are hesitant to put their entire nest egg into the market. Additionally, with the economy creating tight times for families, it’s often necessary to make sure funds are available if and when we need them. For those investors who are either reluctant to jump head first into the market or those who may have a need for cash, the strategy of laddering Certificates of Deposit (CDs) may be appropriate.

Women must focus on retirement income

Sunday, 02 November 2008 21:49 Melody Avecilla

Whether they are the breadwinner in their household or not, preparing for retirement should be extremely important to women. One item of planning that must be considered is the financial situation of the surviving spouse and what can be done to prepare for a potential shortfall.

Women survive their spouses more often then men. The Administration on Aging estimates that seven of ten women will outlive their husbands, highlighting the need for retirement planning even more.