Getting Out of Debt

Fed Bans ATM Card Overdraft Fees

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:42:06 -0600

In a move towards greater consumer protection from predatory banking practices the Feds have banned the practice of charging ATM Overdraft fees without the consumer being aware of the possibility.

I started following this trend a year or so ago when I discovered that my bank me authorize a debit when I didn't have the funds to cover it. Luckily, I thought that something was wrong and I checked with my bank immediately and covered the debit the same day. I blogged on it then and have been following it closely ever since.

It will be interesting to see how the banks respond to this new regulation. Hopefully this will be a positive move forward for the consumer. I do wonder how the banks will twist this into something that harms the consumers.

Consumers need to stay diligent and aware of all that is going on in the financial worlds. Too many of us are complacent and don't realize how these giants scheme to steal a dollar here an there.

Here's the Article in it's entirety.

Today is 11-11-11 - A Rare Phenomenon and a Great Day to Manifest!

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:14:13 -0600

Today, November 11th, we are experiencing a rare numerological phenomenon.

"11" is the Master Number that opens the doors of awareness and opportunity for the energies of Creation at all levels. 2009 (2+0+0+9=11) carries this vibration throughout the year - and we haven't had an "11" year since 1910.

For most of us, this vibration has not been present yet within our lifetime!

Today, therefore, is 11-11-11 ... and it is the PERFECT day for initiating any manifesting process. Not only that, but this particular numerological combination with recur on November 29th (2+9=11), making this THE month to create what you truly want.

I've been studying Law of Attraction strategies for the last year or so and have been toying with starting a group here on Active Rain. When I realized the numerological significance of this day I realized that today is the day to start the group.

The focus of the group will be to help members learn to effectively use Law of Attraction strategies with an emphasis on manifesting income, clients and success.

Today is the day to start manifesting what we desire in our lives. Please join me in the new Law of Attraction Group here on Active Rain.

Share your success, strategies and resources to help attract success into all group members lives!

Join the Law of Attraction Group Here

All the animal lovers out there, asking a very small favor of you................

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:31:31 -0500

Antime I can pass on a simple solution to help out animals, I will do so. Please take a minute to click on the link and help get homeless animals food.

I'd appreciate it.

Via Ralph Gorgoglione (EcoBroker Certified - John Aaroe Group, Inc.):

There is a Seattle based animal rescue site that is in need of our help. It doesn't involve a donation, just the one thing that I know you Active Rainers are very good at - snooping the internet.

The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily so they can meet their quota of getting FREE FOOD donated every day to abused and neglected animals.

It takes about 30 seconds to go to their site and click on the purple box 'fund food for animals for free'. This doesn't cost you a thing.

Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising.

I did this myself, and thoroughly examined the site and background information of the organization prior to posting this blog.

Here's the web site!

www.theanimalrescuesite.com

Please pass it along to people you know.

With our numbers, if we make an effort, the Active Rain community as well as visitors to my dedicated blog site can make a real difference.

Thank you for your time with this,

The Ralphster

Downsizing Due to Alzheimer's

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:45:32 -0500

My Father In Law recently fell at home and was subsequently diagnosed with acute onset Alzheimer's. Previous to his fall, we knew that he was suffering from Dementia, but no doctor had yet given a diagnosis of Alzheimer's.

We had been up to see him just the month before and knew that my husband's parents could no longer stay in their very secluded home in a resort community in Oregon. The area in which they live is an absolutely beautiful vacation spot/resort and mom and dad have been full time residents there for the past twenty years.

We've been urging them to put the house on the market and move for a few years now, but they were stubborn and refused. We wanted them to move to the Redding area with us but the thought of it overwhelmed them. At 83 moving 65 years of "stuff" was too much to deal with.

When Dad fell, he was admitted to a re-hab hospital in to try rehabilitate him to the point where he could go home. Instead of getting better he has gotten worse and the facility has given up on him. Turns out that he will never be able to make that trip home. In Dad's lucid moments he is asking if he is ever going to see his home again, then he slips behind the the veil of Alzheimer's and we lose him again.I asked the hospital if it would be helpful if we let him walk his home one last time. She said that it's not a good idea as it would likely increase the confusion and worsen the condition.

Next week we will be moving Mom and Dad from Oregon to Redding into a long term care facility.

Caretakers will move into their house for the winter and next spring we will likely have to put the home on the market. It's won't be simple at all.

Mom and Dad planned for everything but this. They have decent retirement, excellent health care benefits and have taken excellent care of their bodies. The stock market and real estate crash have taken away much of their nest egg in the last few years. They owned a lot of GM, the income from that stock is gone in the Bankruptcy.

They never purchased long term health insurance and they kept themselves secluded. Turns out that seclusion drastically increases the chances of getting Alzheimer's. Long Term Health Insurance would have meant financial security for mom. Medicare does not cover long term care for Alzheimer's. They leave this to the states. The care has to come out of existing assets, meaning that there might not be anything left to care for Mom after Dad passes.

She now faces an uncertain future with a man that she soon won't recognize. She too is leaving her home. Although she will see it again, this journey will be especially difficult.

I have learned much over the past few weeks on the topic of Alzheimer's and was planning on starting an outside blog on the topic. I finally realized that I needed to post it to the Active Rain community. This situation is impacting all aspects of their lives. Real Estate, Estate Planning, investments, insurance, medical, phychological - you name it has touches it.

With tears streaming down my face I write this post. I hadn't realized how important it was for me to get out of my mind and onto "paper".

Here are a few things that you need to know about Alzheimer's

1. It runs in families

2. Keeping the brain active and stimulated significantly slows it's progression.

3. It has the potential to leave survivors destitute - make sure that you have long term health insurance. I read once that LTH Insurance is more important than life insurance. Now I understand why.

I will continue to share this journey along the way. It won't be an easy road but I'll appreciate it if you join me.

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Debtors Revolt : How Social Media is Changing Corporate Behavior

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 02:34:57 -0500

The other day I came across an article that demonstrates the power of social media and how it can

Background: In a re-run of a story that I hear every day, Bank of America arbitrarily increased Ann Minch's interest rate to 25%. According to the video, she had been a long standing customer, had never been late and has good credit. BOA gave her no warning and refused to lower the rate when she called to complain. In todays market enviornment, this is standard procedure.

After going through the normal channels she got no satisfaction, the bank refused to return her interest rate to the lower level. She fought back by posting her Debtors Revolt Video on You Tube.

The Result: Within 5 days of the video being posted on You Tube, Bank of America contacted Ann and agreed to reduce the interest rate to the previous level.

Why is this significant? It demonstrates the viral impact of social media on corporate behavior. It used to be that a dissatisfied customer had to get the attention of the news media to get their message out. If they were lucky a reporter would contact the company and air the dirty laundry on the local news.

Social Media gives each and every person the opportunity to fight back without involving a third party. More importantly, the reach is further. This video created a call to action to thousands of angry consumers. It spread like wildfire across the internet and Bank of America responded - FAST.

Obviously this video caught my attention because it involves what I do for a living. Beyond getting a certain satisfaction for this woman's win, I realized that this win has nothing to do with interest rates or debt.

The real take away here is that social media has the power to make Business more responsible. Corporate America can no longer control the brand with carefully crafted PR campaigns that cover up the truth. Ultimately this video demonstrates that Social Media has power beyond the mundane. Social Media will force Corporate America make choices that are good for consumers and business. Ultimately that's good for America!

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

I Need Your Help. Your Reward? Great Blogs With Great Info. REBlogworld/Blogworld Expo In Las Vegas!

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 01:16:56 -0500

Matt has asked for help - so I'm pitching in and helping. Please pass it on and help get Matt to the Expo!!

Via Matt Stigliano (RE/MAX Access):

photo courtesy of nodomain1

I love blogging.

You may have noticed before, but it's a fact, I love to blog about real estate. It's good for my business, but I actually find it enjoyable too. In that vein, I would like to make it to this year's Blogworld and New Media Expo (including REBlogworld). Of course, these things cost money and there are expenses...blah blah blah. However, Alltop is sponsoring a contest to allow 3 lucky winners to attend this year's event.

I entered, but I need your help. First of all, I misread a rule, which has seriously put me behind the curve. I thought I was doing okay, but realized that the rule was rather specific and I needed to get moving - so I turn to you, the ActiveRain community for help.

The grand prize for the contest is entrance to the conference as well as hotel accommodations. With those two paid for, I can deal with the flights and food for the three days. I need to win this. Imagine how many blogs I'll churn out when I get back with all the new info I've acquired. Think of me as your Blogworld corespondent. I will report back to you - all you have to do is get me to the top! I don't know what it will take to get me there (I don't even know who's in the lead), but with the power of the ActiveRain and Twitter community, I'm willing to bet (Las Vegas - get it?) that I can win this!

Imagine how this will benefit the ActiveRain community as well! Having the power of 160K+ members pushing to help me accomplish this goal will certainly make people think that ActiveRain is the place to be.

Here's what I need:

First, reblog this post if you can. By spreading the word, there will be more opportunity for more people to act upon it. Put it in every category you can think of and make sure everyone of ActiveRain's members see it! I could care less about the points gained from the reblogs, so ActiveRain can pull the points - this is about getting me to Blogworld and REBlogworld.

Second, you need to retweet the information necessary in order for me to be counted. Visit MyAlltop page and at the bottom you will see a "retweet" button:

Click the retweet button. Click it whenever you have a few free seconds. Tell your friends to click it. Please don't sit there and click it 100 times in a row. I don't want to get the boot for "stuffing the ballot box." The contest ends at 8:00 am Pacific Time on October 1, 2009, so I need your clicks up until then. Let's get as many as we can and show everyone the power of ActiveRain, get me to Vegas, and let me bring back and share all that I have learned!

Please use the retweet button and have everyone you know retweet it too! This would be huge for me and I appreciate all the help I can get!
All content ©2008-2009 by Matt Stigliano, Realtor® unless otherwise noted.

Matt Stigliano, Realtor®

RE/MAX Access

(210) 646-HOME

www.RErockstar.com

"Your all access pass to San Antonio real estate."

Connect with me on Twitter and Facebook.

The CARD Act Has Backfired - It's Forcing People into Default and Bankruptcy

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 20:37:52 -0500

When I first read the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act, or the CARD Act, I remember shaking my head in disbelief. I understood instantly that it was nothing more than feel good legislation that allowed Congress to get some good press on bad legislation.

Turns out I was right. Since passage of the law, banks and financial institutions have steamrolled customers with increased fees, rate hikes and other costly changes that are pushing many clients into default and even bankruptcy.

According to an article that I read at RedTape Chronicles "Consumer Action says since spring, banks have engaged in arbitrary interest rate hikes, increased fees on balance transfers, added annual membership fees and dramatically raised minimum payment requirements."

There is not a day that goes by when I don't receive multiple phone calls from clients telling me that they could afford the payments a few months ago but the rate hikes and increased minimum payments have pushed them over the edge. They are asking me for help because the only other option is Bankruptcy.

Here are some of the things I personally am seeing happen:

1. Minimum payments are being doubled in many cases. If a consumer was on the edge before, this increase puts them over the tipping point.

2. In a rush to beat the legislation deadline, Credit Card companies are increasing interest rates, thus raising minimum payments more than would have happened under the legislation.

3. When clients call for help, they are told - too bad, pay or we will harass you with 25 phone calls a day.

The law was a sham to begin with. It did nothing to change universal default and in fact didn't change any of the tricks and traps the industry has become known for. All it did was demand that the credit card companies give 45 day notice if they are going change the terms of the agreement. There is absolutely nothing in the bill for the consumer and no recourse for the consumer other than to close the account.

Unless we as consumers understand what is happening and fight back, these companies will continue to ruin the financial futures of millions of Americans. Worse, they will force increased demand for social services as we push people into financial ruin.

I am seeing people who have lost their jobs using retirement income to keep current on credit cards. They are refusing to work with customers in hardship until after the credit is already ruined.

I don't know what the answer is, because Congress is in bed with these companies. Here is what I want to see happen:

1. Eliminate the use Universal Default immediately

2. Regulate the use of FICO scores to new credit only. There is no reason that FICO scores need to be viewed by potential employers or other creditors unless new credit is being applied for or the job requires security clearance.

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Banks Retreat As More Legislation Looms

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 01:30:46 -0500

In a continued tightening of oversight on the financial sector, Washington is considering passing broad legislation that will limit the types and amounts of fees that banks can levy against customers.

In an attempt to stave off the legislation, Bank of America, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., and Wells Fargo & Co. have announced that they will eliminate overdraft fees for customers when they overdraw their accounts by $5 or less . In addition the banks will impose no more than four overdraft fees per day.

I've written several posts on this issue and am glad that this issue is finally getting some air time. I first wrote about this over a year ago when I discovered that banks routinely allow consumers to make debit purchases when there isn't enough money in the checking account to cover the purchases. The most recent post was a discussion on the ungodly profits that banks are making from overdraft and other hidden and sneaky fees.

As a debt consultant, I have a healthy dislike for the practices of the banking industry. The stories that I hear on a daily basis would curl your toes. I have strong consumer advocate leanings and I absolutely agree that the banking sector needs to be reigned in. The predatory practices are crushing the middle class and hurting our economy in the pursuit of stockholder profits.

Frankly, I'm in favor of smaller regional banks. I would have preferred to see Citi and other monster banks that were deemed too large to fail, fail.

That said, I've also learned that our current Congressional Leadership have a tendency to pass feel good legislation that ultimately hurts the consumer more than it helps. The recent passage of the Credit Protection Act, has caused minimum payments to increase and have caused many consumers to reach a tipping point and is pushing many into Bankruptcy or default. The significant issue of Universal Default was never addressed and we now get to carry guns in National Parks.

Common sense regulation/legislation that benefits both consumers and banks is needed. I favor legislation that will emphasis education and gives the consumer true choice! The underhanded sneaky practices must be stopped as they benefit no one!

How and if that will be accomplished remains to be seen. Stay tuned - this issue isn't going away soon.

Would You Pay $40.00 for a Cup of Coffee

And Banks Call Mortgage Companies Predatory - This is Legal Stealing

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Are Active Rainers Looking at Healthcare through the Wrong End of the Lens?

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 02:40:32 -0500

As I watch the health-care issue rage on, I can't help but notice the political divide that this issue has caused. Perhaps it's just because I'm getting older, but it seems that the chasm between Liberals and Conservatives has never been greater. I'm thinking that too many Americans are looking at the health-care issue through a distorted lens.

I have to wonder if the challenge for many Active Rainer's, is that our livelihood is based on the perceived success of capitalism, free markets and republican values. We understand that when capitalism is working as it should, that our personal financial outlook improves. real estate appreciates and the American Dream of home ownership is realized more frequently.

Even with that understanding, I find it odd that more of us are not arguing in favor a public option or a single payer health care system. As a profession we stand to benefit greatly from ease of access to health-care. Most of us are 1099ed and independent contractors making health-care more expensive for us. As a profession,, the ease of access to group plans is narrow, premiums are higher and coverage is lower. Oddly, we support the values of big business, even though we ourselves are small businesses.

The trickle down theory so permeates our consciousness that we can't step away from lens long enough to realize that it's not in focus.

The health-care plans coming out of Congress benefit big business at the expense of small business and individuals. That's not OK.

I argue that a single payer system or public option will help us as individuals and help our businesses. If Americans are able to spend less on health-care, that means they have more to spend on housing! If health-care takes up a smaller percentage of gross income, disposable income increases, DTI ratios decrease and the American consumer will feel richer. When Americans feel richer, they are more likely to get off the fence and move towards home ownership.

As I'm writing this, I can hear the dissenters argue about increased taxes digging into the disposable income I mention above. To that I say, what is the one remaining tax shelter that benefits all Americans?

You guessed it, it's home ownership!

I think that this is an instance where "socialism" in one industry promotes capitalism in another. There is a certain synergy that exists when you turn the lens around and focus it differently.

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Will Redding Tear Down the Convention Center?

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:09:18 -0500

In July Redding's City Council, approved the appointment of a privatization committee to consider the pros and cons of privatizing or outsourcing city services. The Redding Convention Center is one of the facilities on the list for privatization or outsourcing.

Today, September 17th, at 4:00 PM there will be a Special Meeting in the Community Room at the Redding City Hall to discuss privatizing the Redding Convention Center.

There are two possible courses of action, both with substantial implications for Non-Profit and Community Organizations. Non profits use the convention center and pay less to utilize the facility, it's part of the concept called: the public good that the City subsidizes the use for these organizations.

1. The biggest worry is that if the Convention Center is privatized, the fees will be so high that the Non-Profits will not be able to afford to rent the facilities.

2 The other option that is being considered is tearing down the Auditorium because of the drain on the city budget ($900,000 per year).

Rumors abound regarding who is behind the push to privatize or tear it down. Some argue that it's driven by a fight over TOT funds. This argument suggests that local hoteliers want all the TOT money for themselves and that they want the Convention Center torn down. I checked with a local hotel owner who indicated that the hotel association has not made any recommendations as to the convention center that he knows of.

Some believe that the McConnell Foundation is behind it and that privatizing or tearing it down will afford the Foundation the opportunity to swoop in and purchase the land for development purposes.

As background, the convention center was built years ago as a public asset and was never intended to be a profit center. Because some of the members of the committee think the convention center should be profitable, they keep asking questions about why the convention center is an economic black hole.

Cities build convention centers so that people who live in other communities have a reason to come to their city. Think of San Francisco, Las Vegas or New Orleans where tourism is a major revenue generator for those communities. To make a convention center work, there has to be a major airport to get the people in and out of the city. In Redding, there is no airport to facilitate even 100 people coming into town, most of the flights are already booked with local citizens needing to get a connecting flight and business people who need to fly in and out of Redding.

Does it make sense to close the convention center? It depends on how you look at it. If there is a need to have the operation break even, it never will. The building was intended to be a gathering spot for community events that were bigger than the Veterans Hall next to the Post Office downtown and possibly bringing people from the outlying areas to spend money in Redding. One needs to look at the schedule of events at the convention center to determine if the building is still relevant; and that is a community decision.

In any event, today's meeting is a significant one, one that members of the community need to be involved in. Be there if you can, make your voice heard!

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt and establish a debt free lifestyle. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

Can There a Be a Market Recovery Without Real Estate?

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:33:23 -0500

Yesterday, the Federal Reserve announced that The Great Recession, which bulldozed our financial lives into a pile of rubble, is probably over. Home sales have risen for three straight months, the stock market has rallied 44 percent since March, and the June economic indicators showed seven of the top ten leading indicators to be up.

It's estimated that the economy is expanding at a 2.5 percent annual rate in the current quarter and Bernake told Congress that economic activity "will increase slightly over the remainder of 2009," By contrast, the economy shrank a staggering 6% during the months of September 2008 and March 2009.

The weak link in the recovery will be consumer spending as 70% of US economic activity is driven by how much consumers spend. Without consumer spending there will be no recovery. In July consumer debt contracted by an astounding 21.6 Billion Dollars, while unemployment continued to rise. The drop in consumer debt was 47% higher than analysts expected and indicates that consumers are in no mood to take on large purchases.

Where does housing play into this equation? Can there be a recovery without Real Estate?

Housing drives jobs and it drives consumer spending. It effects the average American far more than the Dow Jones or NASDAQ and must play a critical role in a long term recovery. Without housing there can be no sustainable recovery.

We have a new wave of foreclosures set to hit the market in 2010, banks are holding REO inventory that at some point must hit the market and mortgage money is still extremely tight. Current market inventory, without foreclosures and REO's hitting the market, indicates a 11 or 12 month absorption. It's likely higher due to the unknown factor of bank owned properties. This means that there is not a lot of room for new construction, which drives jobs, which drives consumer spending.

These factors suggest that mainstreet will not feel any kind of recovery for months if not years to come.

The only positive indicator is that interest rates are likely to stay low and if the stock market continues it rise, credit markets might loosen up and allow the inventory to be absorbed.

I find it odd that it took the Feds nearly a year to admit that we were in a recession, but it's only taking a few months before they announce its demise.

At the end of the day, the job market must be stimulated, the credit markets need to be loosened and housing inventory has to start moving before this 'Great Recession' is truly over.

We as Americans will need to think outside the box, we are going to have to create our own realities and find solutions outside historical paths and existing social norms.

What are your thoughts? Can we have a recovery without housing?

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Would you pay $40.00 for a cup of Coffee?

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 01:48:04 -0500

45% of American Banks make more from overdraft fees than then they do in profits from normal banking activity. What is wrong with an industry whose entire business model is built upon stealing money from the very people who can least afford it?

A recent New York Times article outlines a Wells Fargo customer whose teller failed to tell him that funds from a recent deposit were being held. He went about using his debit card and made a number of purchases under $10.00. He was charged multiple $34.00 over draft fees to the tune of $238.00. This means that a 4.00 cup of coffee at Starbucks actually cost him $38.00.

In my opinion, if a Bank can't make money lending money, then they shouldn't be in business. I say, close their doors now, don't pass go and don't collect $200.00

Here's what the banks do:

1. Customers are allowed to overdraft their account on their debit cards at point of purchase. (The banks bill this as overdraft protection and claim that they do this so that the customer is not embarrassed.) If the customer is aware that this is happening it's not a problem, they get to the bank and make sure that the debits are covered.

2. Unfortunately, thousands of Americans are unaware that it's even possible to use the debit card to withdraw more than is in the account. They find out the hard way that a $1.00 overdraft has cost them hundreds of dollars.

3. One of the sneaky techniques that banks use to increase revenue from overdraft fees is to process large debits first. In the old days, debits were credited based on the date and time they were incurred. No longer. By processing larger debits first, banks realized that it would force many customers into multiple overdrafts, thus increasing fees. By contrast, if the large debit were processed in order, they bank might only make a single overdraft fee- easy profit at the hands of a consumer programmer.

I for one am tired of the heavy handed financial sector. We as Americans do need to be responsible with our money, but when the systems are designed to trip us up and bury us, something is very wrong.

Unfortunately, I have no faith that any legislation being considered will actually help the consumer. Based on what we have seen in the last several year, government intervention will hurt the consumer and the small businesses who rely on small debit card purchases to stay alive.

The playing field isn't level, stay informed and watch your balances.

For those of you who are interested - here is the New York Times Article

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Understanding Debt Settlement

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 10:25:20 -0500

Debt Settlement is the fastest, most efficient way to eliminate debt - but it's not for everyone. The key to understanding if Debt Settlement is right for you, is in understanding what Debt Settlement is, and what it is not.

What Is Debt Settlement: Debt Settlement is a way to eliminate unsecured debt completely by negotiating directly with creditors to settle debt for less than the principal amount owed. Unlike Credit Counseling (CCCS), Debt Settlement actually tackles the principal balances owed and effectively eliminates future interest, late charges and other "trick and trap" fees charged by credit card companies. It is a hardship based program, meaning that there must be some financial reason that you cannot continue to make your minimum payments as they exsist today.

Goals of Debt Settlement: Debt Settlement has three goals:

To lower the monthly payment into one affordable payment. This creates cash flow for the client.
To settle the debt for about 50% of what is currently owed. As an example, if you have $30,000 in credit card debt, debt settlement will settle your debt for about $15,000 paid to creditors. This is an aggregate total and will depend on the creditors that you have. Some creditors will settle for 20% of the existing balance, some will settle for 65% - 70% of the existing balance. On average the total amount repaid to creditors will be about 50% of the total debt.
To have the client completely debt free within about 36 months. The program length will vary based on the amount of debt. Typical programs will run from 24 - 48 months. 48 months will be the maximum program length.

Benefits of Debt Settlement: The two major benefits of Debt Settlement are Time and Money.

Time: Because Debt Settlement (aka Debt Negotiating) cuts the actual principal owed, Debt Settlement will have you out of debt sooner than any other method. The typical Debt Settlement program is 36 months (just three short years) compared to 7 - 9 years with Credit Counseling and 17 - 20 years by making minimum payments. At the end of the day, time is money.
Money: Debt Settlement effectivly eliminates future interest payments. Interest savings combined with principal reduction, are a powerful combination.
Finally, Debt Negotiation is an excellent alternative to Bankruptcy. There are no public records and no one knows that you used the service (unless of course you share it)

Cons of Debt Settlement:

A client needs to live without credit cards for the duration of the program. It is possible to keep out credit cards that have balances below a certain benchmark ($350 - $500). Todays world allows for debit cards to be used when a credit card is needed.
While you are in the program your credit is impaired. That said, by the time you graduate from the program your debt to income ratio will be lower because all your unsecured debt is Settled, Paid in Full. A good company will hook you up with a reputable Credit Repair company who will help clean up inaccuracies on the report after you graduate from the program.

Overall Debt Settlement is an excellent solution for people in a financial hardship. It is not a program for people who just don't want to pay their debt anymore.

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

The Best Six Minutes on Active Rain - Are You Up for the Challenge?

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:15:12 -0500

A co-worker sent this to me today. I'm a Centrist, he's a hard core Conservative, but somehow this talks to both of us.

I've reached a point where I have lost complete and total faith in our system. This well made video has pointed out things that I wasn't even aware of. It has nothing to do with right or left and everything to do with the lives we live. It effects Real Estate, education, health care - you name it.

Do we as a nation have what it takes to fire Congress and take our country back? I'm not sure if I feel saddened or empowered after I watch this. Mostly I feel sad, but somehow I feel empowered enough to share it here on AR.

Somehow I still feel apathetic - Chris told me that's what they want - business as usual. Can a teabag make a difference?

Will you send one?

I'd Rather Live In Redding

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:33:47 -0500

This wonderfully fun Your Tube Video pays homage to the beautiful city of Redding, CA. I really enjoyed the images of some of our local landmarks, from the Sacramento River to the beautiful Lake Shasta. WinRiver Casino to the magnificant Sundial Bridge, the only glass bridge to cross a major River - it's magnificant. Mount Shasta, to Downtown by the old bus station. He missed the Cascade Theatre though. The Cascade is one of the most beautiful man made landmarks we have here in town.

Enjoy!~

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

The Ugly Truth about Consumer Credit Counseling - aka CCCS

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Thu, 07 May 2009 03:22:45 -0500

There's an ugly side to Consumer Credit Counseling. These companies bill themselves as not for profit companies created to help consumers get out of debt. The truth is considerably different!

Most of us have bought into the banking industries hype that when a consumer gets in trouble with debt, the first stop should be consumer credit counseling. After all these non-profit organizations only have the consumers best interest at heart. It's the only non-partial place to get good information about tackling debt - right? WRONG!

In our current economy, the government refers consumers to CCCS organizations. Many bloggers here on Active Rain advise clients to call Consumer Credit Counselling if they get in trouble with debt or fall behind on their mortgage. While there is some educational value to CCCS, in many cases this advise is wrong.

Here's the truth:

Most CCCS companies are indeed set up as not for profit. What isn't disclosed is that the non-profit company is actually owned by a bank. In reality most of these companies are set up as 2nd or 3rd tier companies so that they are distanced from the true ownership.

In 2007, when the bankruptcy laws were revised, CCCS became a requirement before a consumer would be allowed to file for bankruptcy. At a cost of $60 - $90, in addition to Attorneys Fees, the consumer takes an on-line course designed to teach them how to manage money. MAJOR Red Flag. The revision to the bankruptcy laws were a direct result of the powerful banking lobby. Everything about the law benefited banks -including the CCCS requirement.

What Is Consumer Credit Counseling?

Hardship based program designed to help consumers who can no longer make the minimum payments on their credit cards.
Once enrolled the interest rate on the debt is lowered, but the principal balance remains the same.

How Does Consumer Credit Counseling Work?

A monthly payment is established and an auto-draft is debited from the consumers checking account once a month. The CCCS controls the money from this point forward. The monthly payment is usually lower than the current minimum payments, but not dramatically. In some cases it's higher!
At this point the consumer loses control of which creditors get paid and which ones don't. Monthly payments get made to some creditors but not all.
A public notation is made on the consumers credit report showing that they have been enrolled in a consumer credit counseling program. For all intents and purposes, this public notation acts like a bankruptcy.
The CCCS is paid a fee by the consumer and it's also paid a fee by the banks it represents.
At the onset, the CCCS program length is usually established to be 5 years. Unfortunately when 5 years arrives the consumer is usually still in debt and the program continues. The actual program length is usually 7 - 9 years.

Pros of consumer Credit Counseling

Financial Education
It can keep you out of Bankruptcy.

Cons of Consumer Credit Counseling:

The consumer loses control of their money.
No new credit can be established when enrolled in a consumer credit counseling company. That's 7 - 9 years of living without credit - that's a long time.
The payment is usually higher than what the consumer can afford.
The failure rate is 70- 80%. This can be attributed to the length of the program and the high payment doesn't really provide relief.
Because interest is still being charged, the balances are slow to drop. Usually, the consumer ends up in more debt, not less.
You definitely won't be buying a house anytime soon when enrolled in CCCS.

The main reason that people enter consumer credit counseling is because they believe that payments will be made to their creditors. CCCS is not what it's billed out as. Think twice before entering such a program.

Don't be fooled. At the end of the day, Consumer Credit Counseling benefits the banks, not the consumer.

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

Banks Fail Stress Test - So What's the Downside? Business As Usual?

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Thu, 07 May 2009 01:37:37 -0500

Is anyone else perplexed by the Governments plan of action regarding the banks that are failing the big scary "STRESS TEST?"

I'm not getting the downside to these banks.

The rules as I understand them are:

Bank Fails Stress Test and needs $xxx amount of capital.
Bank has six months to raise capital from the private sector.
If the banks can't raise private capital, the Government bails out bank with Taxpayer Money?

What's wrong with this picture?.

Under this plan the banks are not required to improve operations. It will be business as usual. Short Sales, REO's and Foreclosures will continue to be grossly mismanaged.

Unless the rules have changed in the last few days :

As a consumer if you fail to pay your mortgage the banks foreclose, no bailout, no reprieve no safety net.
If your business fails the banks won't give you a bailout. No safety net there. You lose your business - period.

These under-capitalized banks need to be broken up into smaller regional banks that can effectively react to the needs of the local market. There is no excuse or logical argument that can explain the current enviornment.

Under the current capital plan, the only downside to the banks is that the government is given preferred stock that it may or may not be able to convert to common stock at some point in the future.

hmmmm, Government owned common stock equates to nationalization of our banking system. Is that what this is all about nationalizing our banks or am I just missing something?

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

How To Get Out Of Debt Blog

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

Go Green and Make Money with Re-Planet Recycling - A Winning Combination

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Mon, 04 May 2009 02:43:54 -0500

Two Re-Replet recycling centers have opened here in Redding.

I love these machines because they make it so simple to bring in just a few bottles so I don't have to save up the cans and bottles in big plastic bags that get smelly or worse attract bugs.

I recycle here all the time. It's like a vending machine. You simply feed the cans into the machine and it counts them, adds up your money and you print a redemption ticket. The redemption tickets can be taken into Holiday Market for cash!

So simple and easy.

One of the really neat things about these recycling centers is that they are completely self contained.

Inside the building the bottles and cans are sorted and crushed right on site. This diminishes the carbon footprint from having to truck the uncrushed cans somewhere else.

Brilliant.

Right now there are two Re-Planet recycling centers here in Redding.

The Holiday Market Shopping center on Placer and Buenaventura. You'll find the center next to Blockbuster on the Buenaventura side of the center.

The second center is located behind hte Holiday Market off Highway 273.

Re-Planet is an international company with centers across the United States.

Check out the Re-Planet Websitefor information on how recycling pays and the positive impact that it has on our environment!!

I am Kate Bourland. I help my clients get out of debt, get loan modifications and establish a debt free lifestyle. We Guarantee our Loan Modifications. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

How To Get Out Of Debt Blog

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

Debt Free Does Not Mean Financially Free

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Sat, 02 May 2009 23:58:46 -0500

I've been following an often heated debate regarding Mortgage Accelerator Programs. I'm a proponent of these programs for a number of reasons, but primarily because they provide a system to follow that eliminates debt and creates wealth. Systems are powerful because they take away the guesswork and allow decisions to be made from a position of strength.

That said, being debt free, even mortgage free, is not the same as financial freedom.

Being debt free does not mean that money is suddenly going to fall from the sky and solve all your financial problems. At the end of the day, even if you have no debt, you still have Putting food on the table, paying taxes and other fixed expenses are a necessary part of life.

Don't get me wrong, helping people find viable solutions to get out of their debt is what I do. That said, debt is only one piece of the puzzle.

So What is Financial Freedom?

Financial Freedom is the freedom to focus on what is truly important to you without having to trade time for a wage. It is driven by passive income producing assets, which generates sufficient income to cover your yearly expenses on an ongoing basis.

In a nutshell Financial Freedom means that you have both time and money.

How Do you Achieve Financial Freedom? There are really only two steps:

Step 1: Start with a system. Systems leverage all resources to highest and best use. A debt elmination system should:

Be Flexible
Be easy to Understand
Allow for financial changes as they occur in life. An individuals financial needs are going to change over their lifetime. What is right for a 30 year old will not be right for 50 year old.
Make sure that there is a cushion to cover unexpected expenses as they arrive. This can be in the form of cash savings or access to credit.
Provide projections on

Step 2: If you have to buy something, only buy assets. Assets will either provide income or appreciate in value over time.

It really is that simple.

Kate Bourland is a Debt and Credit Specialist who creates customized Debt Solutions and wealth plans fore every client. Got Debt? I can help! Call today - 1- 530-419-3967.

How To Get Out Of Debt Blog

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

Foreclosure Vs Short Sale

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:46:32 -0500

This is one of those questions that I get asked often. I couldn't have said it better than Donna. In the order of preference go for a loan modification first, a short sale second and a foreclosure as a last option.

Via Donna Bigda Realtor® CDPE ABR SRES e-PRO Branford Connecticut Real Estate (RE/MAX Alliance):

There are many homeowners today without a clear understanding of the differences between a foreclosure and a short sale. The consequences a homeowner faces between the two can have a huge impact on their credit and employment especially if their job requires a security clearance.

In an effort to help these homeowners who may not be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of foreclosure vs short sale, I would like to explain the points at issue and consequences of both.

In a foreclosure credit your credit score may be lowered from 250 to over 300 points and it typically can affect your score for over 3 years.

With a successful short sale on your home only late payments on a mortgage will show and after sale mortgage will be reported as paid or negotiated. If all other payments are being made this will lower the score as little as 50 points. The effect of a short sale can be as brief ans 12 to 18 months.

Your credit history in a foreclosure will remain as a public record for 10 years or more. A short sale is not reported on your credit history as there is no specific reporting item for a "short sale." The loan is typically reported "paid in full, settled."

Outside of a conviction of a serious misdemeanor or felony a foreclosure is the most challenging issue against a security clearance. If you are in the military, in the CIA, Security, are a police officer or any other position that requires a security clearance and have a foreclosure in almost all cases that clearance will be revoked and the position terminated. A short sale on its own does not challenge most security clearances.

If you are currently employed employers have the right and are actively checking the credit regularly of all employees who are in sensitive positions. In many cases a foreclosure is grounds for immediate reassignment or termination. Since a short sale is not reported on a credit report it is as a result not a challenge to employment.

In the case of future employment many employers are requiring credit checks on all job applicants. In most cases a foreclosure will challenge employment and is one of the most detrimental credit items an applicant can have. As stated above because a short sale is not reported on a credit report as a result is not a challenge to employment.

A bank has the right to pursue a deficiency judgment in 100% of foreclosures (except in those states where there is no deficiency). It is possible in some successful short sales to convince the lender to give up the right to pursuit a deficiency judgment against a homeowner.

In regards to deficiency judgment amounts a home in foreclosure will have to go through an REO process if it does not sell at auction and can in most instances result in a lower sales price and longer time to sell in a declining market. This will result in a higher possible deficiency judgment.

When a short sale is properly managed a home is sold at a price that should be close to market value and in almost all instances will be better than an REO sale resulting in a lower deficiency.

The period for eligibility of a future loan differ greatly between a homeowner who loses a home to foreclosure and a homeowner who successfully negotiates and closes a short sale.

Effective May 21, 2008 the homeowner of a primary residence who loses a home to foreclosure is ineligible for a Fannie Mae backed mortgage for a period of 5 years. With a successfully negotiated and closed short sale a homeowner will be eligible for a Fannie Mae backed mortgage after only 2 years. In a non-primary residence an investor who allows a property to go to foreclosure is ineligible for a Fannie Mae backed investment mortgage for a period of 7 years. In a successfully negotiated and closed short sale an investor will be eligible for a Fannie Mae backed investment after only 2 years.

Eligibility for a future loan with any mortgage company for a homeowner who loses a home to foreclosure will affect their future rates and will require the prospective borrower to answer YES to question C in Section VII of the stand 1003 application that asks "Have you had property foreclosed upon or given title or deed in lie thereof in the last 7 years?" There is no similar question or declaration regarding a short sale.

A short sale is an emotional transaction but as a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I want to help take the stress out of losing your home to foreclosure and explain the full range of solutions that are available. Call me today for a confidential consultation.

Donna Bigda
Licensed Connecticut REALTOR®
10 Pine Orchard Road
Branford, Connecticut 06405

Call Donna at 203-488-1641, ext. 214
Fax 203-315-2127
by email Donna@DonnaBigda.com
or visit www.distressedhomeownershelpline.com

Copyright © 2009 by Donna Bigda, All Rights Reserved ...*Foreclosure vs Short Sale*

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is strictly an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive. Sellers are advised to obtain legal advice regarding the advisability and terms of any short sale agreement with creditor(s) and professional tax advice regarding tax implications of a sale.

Planting the Seeds of Prosperity - Spring Fresh

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 20:32:25 -0500

Spring is a beautiful time of year when the plants around us come to life. It's a rebirth of everything beautiful. Spring is when we plant our gardens, carefully choosing the plants, the soil and the location. Once planted we nurture it until we harvest the fruit of our labor of love.

As we approach this Spring and start to prepare our gardens, I can't help but think about spending some time planting the seeds of Prosperity. These are challenging economic times. Many of us are still in Winter when to comes to our prosperity. This spring, how about spending a little time planting the seeds or prosperity. garden.

Dictionary.com defines prosperity as a successful, flourishing, or thriving condition, esp. in financial respects; good fortune.

So how does one go about planting seeds of prosperity? To start, think about how you would go about planting a garden.

Step One: Planning

Decide what seeds you are going to plant and when you want to harvest those plants.
Will you be planting vegetables or fruit.
When do you plan to harvest what you plant? Summer or Fall?

When you are planting for prosperity this means setting financial goals.

Where do you want your financial future to take you?
What does financial prosperity look like to you?
Does it mean more clients, less debt, more savings?
Draw a picture of what your prosperity will look like?

Step Two: Ammending the Soil

What do you need to amend the soil of your garden with to get the desired results?
Is it rich organic mushroom soil for healthy and big vegetables or is a soil designed to grow beautiful roses in? Or will you plant a tree that will provide shade for years to come?

When amending the soil for prosperity you need to choose how to enrich yourself so that you can reach the goals you set in Step One.

Will you take classes to further your education?
How will you stretch yourself so that you gain the skills needed to reach the prosperity you desire?
Will you tackle your debt and set yourself up for long term financial health,
How about adding adding another profit center to increase income?
Most important in this phase is developing a prosperity state of mind.

Step 3: Planting

This is where you get your hands dirty.
Dig the holes, and plant those seeds.
Water them in.

Planting for Prosperity means taking action every day to reach that prosperity goal.

Take the step to enroll in that social networking class
How about making an appointment with a financial consultant to plan for the future
Talk to a debt consultant about strategies for managing debt.

Step 4: Nurturing

Water your garden daily or as appropriate.
Pull the weeds, stake the plants and watch them grow.

Nurturing your Financial Prosperity will entail:

spending a few minutes each day focusing on your prosperity
defining 1 or 2 actions that you'll take that day towards your prosperity goal.
Spend a few minutes each day focusing on a prosperity mindset and focusing on abundance.

Step 5: Harvesting

Here is the fun part, harvesting those beautiful plants that you grew.

Imagine right now what your prosperity harvest will look like? Draw a picture and see yourself harvesting your plans.

The beautiful prosperity garden will provide great joy for years to come in the form of financial freedom.

What seeds of prosperity will you plant this spring?

Kate Bourland is a Debt and Credit Specialist who creates customized Debt Solutions and wealth plans fore every client. Got Debt? I can help! Call today - 1- 530-419-3967.

How To Get Out Of Debt Blog

http://www.katebourland.com

Things to Do In Redding California

The One Best Way to Get Out of Debt

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 02:14:08 -0500

Debt is one of those words that brings up all kinds of negative emotions, fear, shame and guilt among them. It's also a topic that everyone has an opinion on.

Some will argue that some debt is good while others will argue that all debt is bad.

What I find most interesting is the idea that there is a single best way to get out of debt. The truth is that there is no one size fits all strategy to eliminating debt. There are however two truths when it comes to tackling debt:

You must spend less than you make.
In order to spend less than you make you must either increase your income or lower your expenses.

The trick is figuring out the combination for your individual circumstances. If you have suffered a Financial Hardship, your strategy will be different from someone who hasn't undergone such an event. It's important to understand the difference.

A financial hardship is anything that has lowered your income or increased your expenses to the point where you can no longer afford to make your minimum payments. Financial Hardships include loss of job, reduced income, a house payment that has adjusted upward, birth of a child, medical expenses.

If you have suffered a financial hardship your choices are going to be as follows:

Continue to try to make the minimum payments, missing a payment here and there and living off of credit cards. This is a ticking time bomb and you hurt your credit big time usingthis strategy.
Credit Counseling (aka - CCCS): These organizations are typically sheep in wolves clothing. They are usually owned by credit card companies themselves and take money from you the consumer and the credit card companies themselves. They work by lowering your interest payments, and charging you a monthly fee to manage your debt. You send them a monthly payment, that is slightly lower than your current minimums and decide who gets paid and who doesn't. CCCS also puts a mark on your credit report which acts as if you've undergone a bankruptcy. The quoted payoff time is typically 5 - 7 years but typically it's 7 - 9 years before you are out of debt.
Debt Settlement: Debt settlement companies will actually tackle the principal balance of your debt. They do it by negotiating with your credit card companies and will save you 50 - 60% off the principal balance. A good company will have you out of debt in 2 - 3 years, no longer than 48 months. There is no hardship program that is faster or more effective than debt settlement. Your credit takes a serious hit when you are in the program but it quickly recovers once all your debt is paid. It's not for everyone and it only works with unsecured credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. Be wary as there are a lot of new companies cropping up who don't have your best interest in mind.
Bankruptcy: Bankruptcy is the last alternative. The goal of Debt Settlement and Credit Counseling are to help you avoid bankruptcy.

In most circumstances, debt settlement is the least harmful and most effective of the hardship categories.

For those who are not in a financial hardship, your options are much wider. The debt strategy that is right for you will depend on your goals, your age, and your exit strategy. By your exit strategy I mean what do you want to do once you are completely out of debt?

Your options are going to be debt consolidation loans, debt roll-down strategies, interest cancellation strategies, or a combination of all three.

The solution is to seek help from a professional who is experienced in reviewing individual situations. There is no one size fits all solution to managing debt. What works for you might not work for your neighbor. If you find yourself struggling to make payments, get a qualified opinion sooner, rather than later.

Kate Bourland is a Debt and Credit Specialist. Customized Debt Solutions. Got Debt? I can help!

Call Today 1-530-419-3967

Things to Do In Redding: Kool April Nights - April 15 - 19 2009

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 02:01:03 -0500

Kool April Nights is will be rumbling the streets of Redding again starting April 15th. This fun four day event brings out the cars from the 50, 60's 70;s and 80's.

The highlight of the event is the annual cruise where parts of Churn Creek and Hilltop are closed down from 6 - 8pm. This fun street fair and car cruise is enjoyed my the entire town. We bring our coolers, and lawn chairs and enjoy the sights and sounds of beautiful cars. Some are restored, some not. But it's all fun stuff.

Overall 2,300 classic cars will cruise the streets of Redding.

To Register Your Car go the the Official Kool April Nights website.

Don't Miss the fun. Hope to see you there.

Organic Farming Is About to Become Illegal? Act Now!

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 01:35:10 -0500

This past week Bill HR 875 was introduced with little media fanfare. I saw a little bit of news coverage which basically espoused how the bill was designed to make our food supply safer. Like so much going on in our government right now, nothing is further from the truth. It turns out that HR 875 is an attempt by two major corporations, one of which is Monsanto, to eliminate organic seeds from our food supply and replace them with genetic and chemically altered seeds.

This has the potential to put small organic farmers out of business. It will effect the real estate value of rural farming towns and will forever change our food supply. Don't let this happen.

It could end Farmers Markets - this is serious business! Don't Let It Pass.

If you understand the importance of sustainable agriculture and choose to eat organic and pure foods as nature intended for our bodies, please take a second to call your congressional rep and ask them to vote down bill HR 875 which will outlaw organic farming. If we all do not do our part, we'll be stuck with GMO and pesticide-ridden garbage "foods."

If this passes, then NO more organic ancient heirloom seeds will be allowed. Instead only Monsanto genetically altered seeds that are now showing up with unexpected diseases in humans will be legally grown.

The US House and Senate are about (in a week and a half) to vote on bill that will outlaw organic farming (bill HR 875).

This bill is cleverly disguised to fool Americans into thinking it's to our benefit. is also disguised as the Food Safety Modernization Act of 2009 (bill HR 875).

Main backer and lobbyist is Monsanto - chemical and genetic engineer ing giant corporation along side Cargill, ADM, and about 35 other related agri-giants. This bill will require organic farms to use specific fertilizers and poisonous insect sprays dictated by the newly formed agency to "make sure there is no danger to the public food supply". This will include backyard gardens that grow food only for a family and not for sales essentially making tons of money for these companies through the sale of their pesticides and also polluting our waterways.

Short Video 1:http://pr1.netatlan tic.com/t/ 9661579/7793682/ 598242/0/

Short Video 2: http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=eeWVkTU1s1E

To Find & Call Your Representative:

Go to http://pr1.netatlan tic.com/t/ 9661579/7793682/ 598244/0/ and enter your zipcode. Express your concern politely and nicely and pass the word on. Thanks!

Quote of the Day - Saturday

Kate Bourland Empowering America to Live Debt Free (Financial Solutions Inc.) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 21:24:01 -0500

Let others lead small lives, but not you.
Let others argue over small things, but not you.
Let others cry over small hurts, but not you.
Let others leave their future in someone else's hands, but not you.

-Jim Rohn

This is one of the most powerful quotes that I've read in a long time. What will you do this week to live a large live? What will you do to take charge of your own future?

Kate Bourland: I am committed to helping my clients find solutions to their financial challenges. Call me if you are at risk of losing your home to foreclosure and need a loan modification. I can help.
Too much credit card debt - let's find a solution that works for you. Wanna pay off your home fast- call for a free analysis. Ask me how I can help you manage your debt... it's easier than you think. You can reach me at 530-419-3967.

Copyright 2007 - 2009.

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Organic Farming Is About to Become Illegal? Act Now!

Quote of the Day - Saturday

Let others lead small lives, but not you. Let others argue over small things, but not you. Let others cry over small hurts, but not you. Let others leave their future in someone else's hands, but not you.

Let others lead small lives, but not you.
Let others argue over small things, but not you.
Let others cry over small hurts, but not you.
Let others leave their future in someone else's hands, but not you.