Access Atlanta > Blog > Archives > 2008 > October
October 2008
Do you plan to take the day off to vote Nov. 4?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thousands of voters continue to line up at polling places around metro Atlanta for early voting.
This begs the question — if the lines look like this now, what might they be like on Election Day? Some election officials are predicting that it could get as bad as a six-hour wait at peak times in some places.
If you’ve decided to wait to vote on Tuesday, do you plan to take the day off from your job to ensure that you’ll have time to brave long lines? Is your place of business allowing you to take off that day?
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Best Bets: Witches, Zombies and Musical Wizardry
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mexico’s Son de Madera performs at the Rialto Center for the Arts on Nov. 8.
Let’s take a look at some of the top events coming to Atlanta today, this weekend and in the coming weeks.
TODAY’S PICK
You only have a few more days to get “Wicked.” The Broadway Across America Atlanta production of the Halloween-appropriate musical about the witches of Oz continues through Sunday at the Fox Theatre. 8 p.m. Oct. 29 and 31; 1 and 8 p.m. Oct. 30; 2 and 8 p.m. Nov. 1; 1 p.m. Nov. 2. $39-$125. 660 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta. 404-817-8700.
WEEKEND HAPPENING
Become part of the Zombie Elimination Task Force in Undead Invasion. In the world created by this adventure game, downtown Atlanta is at risk of being infested by legions of the undead. Your team will help repulse the zombie attack. Use gadgets, crack codes and follow clues to find the secret end location. Start location will be revealed via email. See Web site to sign up. 7 p.m. Oct. 31. $35. 706-518-0985.
LOOKING AHEAD
Son de Madera showcases the Son Jarocho musical tradition from Veracruz, Mexico. The group is based in Xalapa - sometimes spelled Jalapa and home of the jalapeño pepper - the capital of the state of Veracruz. Son Jarocho is probably best known for giving us the song “La Bamba.” Los Angeles’ Quetzal, also on the bill, plays a mix of Mexican and Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz, R&B and rock. 8 p.m. Nov. 8. $32-$56. Rialto Center for the Arts, 80 Forsyth St. N.W., Atlanta. 404-413-9849.
For more fun things to do, check out accessAtlanta’s events round-up here.
Planning to attend any of these events or do you have something else on your calendar? Pitch in with your ideas for things to do. Tell us about the fun and/or fascinating events on your radar.
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Sadly, we bid adieu to Dottie
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Dottie, Zoo Atlanta’s African elephant, died late Monday of unknown causes. This is especially sad because Dottie was pregnant with her first calf. She was 26.
Officials first became concerned about Dottie’s health Oct. 10 when the zoo’s health team noticed her urine was cloudy and she had decreased protein levels in her blood.
On Oct. 21, they noted she had lost about 800 pounds or about 10 percent of her body weight. They began administering antibiotics the next day. She was in the third trimester of her first pregnancy. A routine ultrasound as late as Oct. 24 confirmed that Dottie still had a viable pregnancy.
I took my 3-year-old son to the zoo on a recent warm fall Sunday afternoon. His eyes lit up when he saw Dottie. He talked about her most when we got home. We’ll miss her on our next visit.
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Best Bets: From Athens to Sweet Apple
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Athens rock pioneers Pylon return on Halloween, playing with current Atlanta buzz band Deerhunter at Variety Playhouse. From left, Pylon is Randy Bewley, Michael Lachowski, Vanessa Hay and Curtis Crowe. Photo: Jason Thrasher
Let’s take a look at some of the top events coming to Atlanta today, this weekend and in the coming weeks.
TODAY’S PICK
Enjoy a free evening of chamber music, featuring pieces by Mendelssohn and Brahms, by local musicians including members of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. A reception follows. 7 p.m. Oct. 27. Christ Presbyterian Church, 495 Terrell Mill Rd., Marietta. 770-956-7572;
WEEKEND HAPPENING
Atlanta’s self-described “ambient punk” outfit Deerhunter will be celebrating both Halloween and the release of a new album, “Microcastle,” on Oct. 31 (the album is in stores Oct. 28). This is sure to be one of the most buzzed-about shows of the year, because Deerhunter will be joined by legendary Athens quartet Pylon. Pylon’s debut album, 1980’s “Gyrate,” was reissued in 2007 to a second wave of well-deserved acclaim. Jay Reatard and Times New Viking, both with growing fan bases and positive critical notices of their own, are also on the bill. 8 p.m. Oct. 31. $18; $16 advance. Variety Playhouse, 1099 Euclid Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-521-1786, .
LOOKING AHEAD
Theater in the Square pays tribute once again to the late and beloved Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Celestine Sibley with “Christmas at Sweet Apple.” Writer Phillip DePoy brings Sibley’s yuletide tales to the stage with both traditional and original music. The show opens Nov. 9 and continues through Dec. 28. 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Also, 2:30 p.m. Dec. 24 (No 8 p.m. Show). No show Nov. 27 and Dec. 25. $25-$35. Theatre in the Square, 11 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770-422-8369, .
For more fun things to do, check out accessAtlanta’s events round-up here.
Planning to attend any of these events or do you have something else on your calendar? Pitch in with your ideas for things to do. Tell us about the fun and/or fascinating events on your radar.
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Best Bets: Greek tragedy, Artful Rock and Mexican Spirits
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
TV on the Radio. Photo: Michael Lavine.
Let’s take a look at some of the top events coming to Atlanta today, this weekend and in the coming weeks.
TODAY’S PICK
“Antigone,” Sophocles’ epic tale of one of literature’s most compelling and powerful women, is Georgia Shakespeare’s first Greek production. AJC theater critic Wendell Brock writes, “Georgia Shakespeare’s Richard Garner and Atlanta composer Kendall Simpson have found the music in Sophocles’ “Antigone,” a tragedy about pride and honor, love and loss, grief and revenge.” See the full review here. 10 a.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Through Nov. 2. Plus, 2 p.m. Oct. 25; 8 p.m. Oct. 30. $15-$40. Georgia Shakespeare at Conant Performing Arts Center, 4484 Peachtree Road N.E. at Oglethorpe University, Atlanta. 404-264-0020, .
WEEKEND HAPPENING
Brooklyn-based TV On The Radio makes tasty musical pretzels by twisting together post-punk, electronic experimentalism, avant jazziness and straight-up rock. The subtleties and staggering inventiveness of the band’s albums, including this year’s “Dear Science,” mark them as one of the rare rock combos moving music forward in such an artful way. 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25. $23. The Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St. N.W., Atlanta. 404-659-9022.
LOOKING AHEAD
In Mexico, they call it Dia de los Muertos. On the Day of the Dead (which actually takes place over several days), some believe the spirits of the departed are allowed to visit the living. Young Blood Gallery will celebrate the holiday with the opening of a show of decorative miniature coffins by local and national artists. Free. Opening reception 7-10 p.m. Nov. 1. The show continues noon-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; noon-8 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays through Nov. 26; noon-9 p.m. Nov. 28-29; noon-8 p.m. Nov. 30. 636 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta. 404-254-4127.
For more fun things to do, check out accessAtlanta’s events round-up here or our best bets for this weekend here.
Planning to attend any of these events or do you have something else on your calendar? Pitch in with your ideas for things to do. Tell us about the fun and/or fascinating events on your radar.
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What did you think about the BET Hip-Hop Awards show?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta’s own T.I. and Ludacris opened the awards show that aired Thursday night, and the atmosphere turned out to be as much Barack Obma rally as awards ceremony.
What were the highlights (or lowlights) for you?
• The show: Festivities turn into Obama rally | Photos | Winners
• Red carpet: Fashion rules the day | Photos | Video | Best accessory?
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How are you handling the stock market’s fall?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wall Street felt another major jolt as panicked investors, worried about a worsening global financial crisis, sent markets into a free fall.
The Dow Jones industrial average futures fell 550 points, triggering a halt in selling of stock future contracts, according to AP
“Japan’s Nikkei stock average fell a staggering 9.60 percent. In Europe, Germany’s benchmark DAX index was down 10.76 percent, France’s CAC40 dropped 10 percent while Britain’s FTSE 100 sank 8.67 percent after the government said its gross domestic product fell 0.5 percent in the third quarter, putting the country on the brink of recession,” the article said.
How worried are you about the markets and economy? As an investor, what is your philosophy or strategy?
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Best Bets: The Horror and the Pretty
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“Super Orchid,” a Fuji Crystal Archive printby Steve Aishman, on view at Solomon Projects.
Let’s take a look at some of the top events coming to Atlanta today, this weekend and in the coming weeks.
TODAY’S PICK
The Atlanta Horror Film Festival got under way yesterday. Today’s lineup includes the charmingly titled “Brain Dead,” and you can see the complete schedule for Thursday here. The independent horror features and shorts keep on coming through Oct. 25 at The Drunken Unicorn (MJQ Concourse), 736 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E., Atlanta; and Young Blood Gallery, 636 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta. $5-8 per screening; $20 all-access pass. 404-246-0365.
WEEKEND HAPPENING
Check out Atlanta photographer Steve Aishman’s eerily beautiful free-floating flowers in Solomon Projects’ ”Super Flowers.” Aishman will speak about his work at 2 p.m. Oct. 25 at the gallery. Aishman is also involved with a project at this weekend’s LeFlash event, part of the Castleberry Hill Art Stroll. He’ll join three other artists in creating a “Conceptual Video Billboard Projection” on Peters Street. LeFlash takes place from 7 p.m.-midnight Oct. 24 in the Castleberry Hill Neighborhood around Walker and Nelson streets, Atlanta. 404-413-5230. “Superflowers” continues at Solomon Projects - along with a show of work by Wendy Given called “No Man’s Land” - through Dec. 6 (closed Nov. 27-28). Solomon Projects, 1037 Monroe Drive, Atlanta. 404-875-7100.
LOOKING AHEAD
Folk, blues and country combine under the steady hand of this seasoned singer, songwriter and guitarist Guy Clark. The Texan’s own recordings have never been big sellers, but he’s held in high esteem by fellow musicians. Vince Gill, George Strait and Ricky Skaggs, among others, have hit the charts with his tunes. He’ll make his way to Variety Playhouse at 7 p.m. Nov. 1. Tickets are $22.50; $20 advance. 1099 Euclid Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-521-1786.
For more fun things to do, check out accessAtlanta’s events round-up here.
Planning to attend any of these events or do you have something else on your calendar? Pitch in with your ideas for things to do. Tell us about the fun and/or fascinating events on your radar.
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Best Bets: Pigs, Pugs and (Pretend) Pink Floyd
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
After performing a trick for several hundred pug lovers to appreciate, two and a half year old pug, T.J., takes a break during the 2007 PugFest, a fundraiser event for the Southeast Pug Rescue & Adoption organization held at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville. (SARA HOPKINS/Special)
Let’s take a look at some of the top events coming to Atlanta today, this weekend and in the coming weeks.
TODAY’S PICK
With the death of keyboardist Richard Wright in September, there can never be a true Pink Floyd reunion again. It had only happened once since 1981 anyway, when the four members of the band’s most successful incarnation played together at the Live 8 concert in London in 2005. You can see and hear “The Wall” live, though, with all the bells and whistles. The Australian Pink Floyd will play tonight at Gwinnett Arena, bringing all the bells and whistles and lasers. They’ll play “The Wall” in its entirety, along with selected songs from the rest of the Pink Floyd catalog. These Aussies were even asked to perform at Floyd guitarist David Gilmour’s 50th birthday celebration in 1996, with Wright joining in. It’s not the real thing, but since we’ll never have the real thing again, this will have to do. 8 p.m. Oct. 22. $40.50-$50.50. Gwinnett Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. 770-813-7600, 404-249-6400.
WEEKEND HAPPENING
Ah, pugs in Halloween costumes. That’s just too much cute to resist. The Southeast Pug Rescue & Adoption organization’s annual Pugfest fund-raiser is this weekend at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 25. $6; $3 for children under 12, free for pugs and other small dogs. 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville. 770-963-6522.
LOOKING AHEAD
It’s almost time to pull out the pig again. Atlanta’s holiday tradition, Priscilla the Pink Pig, takes us on a train ride through a life-size storybook that includes the original Pink Pig and her friends. Priscilla returns Nov. 1 under the big tent in the Lenox Road upper-level parking deck at Macy’s at Lenox Square and benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 1-Dec. 30; noon-6 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 1-30 and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 7-28. Plus, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 1-3 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 4 (except 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Nov. 28; and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 24 and Dec. 31). Closed Nov. 27 and Dec. 25. $3; on Nov. 1, all children who wear their Halloween costumes ride for free. 3393 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta. 770-913-5639.
For more fun things to do, check out accessAtlanta’s events round-up here.
Planning to attend any of these events or do you have something else on your calendar? Pitch in with your ideas for things to do. Tell us about the fun and/or fascinating events on your radar.
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Beauty on a budget
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
There’s an old saying that it hurts to be beautiful.
That doesn’t mean, though, that beauty has to be a pain to your wallet, especially in this tough economic times.
Do you shop drug stores instead of department stores for cosmetics? Do you make your own beauty treatments? Have you reduced the number of visits to your hair salon and instead do it yourself?
The Associated Press recently pulled together these inexpensive beauty tips:
Slice a cucumber and place slices over your eyes to treat puffiness.
Shop at drug stores for cheaper eyeshadow and foundation.
What about you? How do you stay fine fine on a budget?
For more money saving tips go to Your Money
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For the love of shoes
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Christian Louboutin, maker of those ubiquitous red-soled shoes, is just a baby in the shoe biz having formed his solo business in 1992.
Still, he is heralded as a shoe genius who understands both the psychology and physiology of shoes.
Louboutin is making an appearance in Atlanta at Jeffrey in Phipps Plaza on Friday October 24, from 1 - 4 p.m. and the public is invited.
The Paris based designer will be on hand to chat with customers and offer a preview of his Spring 2009 collection.
Louboutin was only 10 years old when he first discovered his passion for shoes. A sign at the Museum of Oceanography in Paris featured a stiletto shoe crossed out with a red line as a warning for women not to enter - and possibly damage the parquet floors - with their skinny sky-high heels.
Two things occurred to Louboutin: 1. Shoes can be dangerous 2. Stilettos are incredible and he could design them.
Shoe lovers, when did you first discover your obsession with shoes? Who is your favorite shoe designer?
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UPDATED Ryan Adams in metro Atlanta: Gone in 60 minutes (or less)
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Ryan Adams pulled the plug on himself Friday night
Well, it’s not much of an update, but figured RA fans would want to know.
I called and e-mailed around yesterday trying to learn if there would be refunds or a rescheduled show or just free T-shirts for everyone.
This morning I received a response from the Woodruff Arts Center, which operates the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatere in Alpharetta, where Adams performed Friday. Here it is:
Thanks for your email. We are still looking at all options with his representation. Once something is confirmed, we will let everyone know.
Thank you again, have a nice day.
So, there you have it.
Here’s the original post ..
Ryan Adams’ Friday night concert at Alpharetta’s new Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park turned out to be a sweet illusion.
Performing with his band, the Cardinals, Adams sang about a dozen songs including “Everybody Knows,” and his cover of Oasis’ “Wonderwall.”
But an hour or maybe even less into the show Adams, who had been complaining he was losing his voice, abruptly ended the performance, uttering his apologies on the way out.
At first, the crowd seemed stunned, like maybe this was another of Adams’ antics. Then the lights came on. Encore staffers seemed flummoxed, and the poor roadies endured the brunt of the crowd’s booing, as they packed up the band’s gear.
But while disappointed, the audience didn’t get out of hand. (This was Alpharetta, remember. How rowdy could things get?)
Actualy, the truncated show elicited some droll remarks we overheard on the way out.
“He’s back there playing Guitar Hero on the Wii,” one patron hypothesized.
“There goes Ryan Adams’ voice,” another mused, as a tow truck lumbered by in the parking lot.
I’m told by an eyewitness that at least one male audience member experienced a violent bout of dyspepsia after the show.
“That guy’s so disgusted he’s puking!” one men’s room pundit suggested.
(I’m guessing that late bit of unpleasantness was unrelated.)
One girl lamented to a friend that if the sudden cancellation had occurred in town, they could at least hit some bars.
“We’re in Alpharetta,” she said. “Want to go to Chili’s, or Ruby Tuesday?”
Ouch.
A few people lined up outside the box office to see about refunds, but came away with forms to fill out. It seems if any refunds are to be offered, they should come from the artist. It’s not the venue’s fault Adams decided to call it quits.
Were you there? Are you disappointed? Will you seek a refund?
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Grrrrrrrr! Do you know a grouch?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It’s National Grouch Day and I’m not in a very good mood.
I didn’t get enough sleep last night, my commute was horrible and I have to do everyone else’s work. Grrrrrr…
You get the picture.
Do you know a grouch or are you one? Do you have a job that requires you to deal with more than your fair share of complainers? How do you deal with someone who grumbles all the time?
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What have you given up?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In good times, we trade up.
In bad times, we trade down…or quit trading at all.
Maybe that means a home dye job instead of the highlights at the salon. The store brand groceries over the name-brand. A nice detail job on an old car we would’ve replaced, the home whitening kit on our teeth, last season’s jeans, a bit faded and saggy, but good enough to wear till we can buy the good ones again.
Maybe, just maybe, we’ll find that we can do without?
With gasoline and utility costs up, uncertainty on the stock market, growing unemployment rates and scary news about housing costs, how are you changing your habits? What seems like a luxury now, and what does it feel like to give it up? How do you get around it, and how does it compare to what you used to do?
If you’ve got a story or tips to share, e-mail reporter Jamie Gumbrecht at jgumbrecht@ajc.com. She might contact you for a story.
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Know any jokes about the economy?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Is there a humorous lining in an otherwise dark cloud of economic news?
We think so. We culled these gems from our Money Vent:
“I was about to open my retirement statement, but thought I should be near someone who knew CPR, so I went to the hospital ER first.”
“Freddie and Fannie sitting in a tree, S.P.E.N.D.I.N.G.”
Viewers of late night talk shows know that even a bad economy is fair game for a good laugh. According to About.com, Conan O’Brien once lobbed this at former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan: “Yesterday Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan said he would be willing to serve another term. Greenspan said, ‘Where else would I get a job in this economy?’”
And who would expect a New York Stock Exchange floor trader to have sense of humor?
NYSE floor trader Ted Weisberg, who is president of Seaport Securities, was recently a guest on NPR’s “All Things Considered.”
“There are only two positions to take in this market: cash and fetal.”
We understand that the economic crisis is a serious matter that affects most metro Atlantans. But, for a moment at least, let’s find something to take the edge off. Afterall, laughter is the best medicine. What good jokes and one-liners have you heard about the economy?
You can find more tips on eating well for less, suggestions for cheap or free entertainment and general ways to cope with the economy at Your Money.
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What are your colleagues saying today?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The stock market free fall continued today on Wall Street, leaving many office workers stunned at the wild swings. What’s the mood in your office, and what sort of advice are you and your colleagues hearing? Are you ready to get out, or are you in for the long haul?
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Financial crisis may steal Christmas cheer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Will the financial crisis steal Christmas cheer this year?
As the holiday season fast approaches, some retailers are already reporting a drop in clothing sales, while others are noticing more customers are delinquent on credit card payments.
What about you. Do you plan to spend as much on gifts and travel this year compared to previous years? How will the financial crisis affect your holidays?
For tips that can help you now and through the holidays, check out Your Money.
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Did McCain diss Obama with “That One” remark?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Politics is a dirty business, so a jab here or there can be expected.
But did Sen. John McCain cross the line when he dismissively referred to Democratic rival Barack Obama as “That one” during the second presidential debate?
The remark, shown here on YouTube, was made during discussion of an energy bill. “You know who voted for it? You might never know. That one,” McCain said, pointing to Obama. Obama showed no reaction.
Were you bothered by McCain’s “that one” remark? Was it inappropriate or just politics?
What would you ask Ford to add?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Ford Motor Co. just answered your parental prayers.
Ford plans to roll out a new feature on many 2010 models that can limit teen drivers to 80 mph, using a computer chip in the key, according to AP
Parents will also have the option of programming the key to limit the audio system’s volume, and to sound continuous alerts if the driver doesn’t buckle up.
There are probably other parental-inspired features that Ford forgot to add. So what would you like to see? Perhaps, an alarm feature that sounds when there are more than four passengers. Or, what if the car ignition disengages if sensors detect the aroma of weed or alcohol? Teens drivers can weigh in as well. Some of this technology may not even exist yet, but it’s OK to get futuristic.
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How real an Atlanta housewife are you?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Bravo, the channel that gave us “Project Runway,” has a new show debuting Tuesday: “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” a soapy “reality” (cough, cough) series about five very well-off women who live in the northern suburbs.
One lives in a country club and is married to an NFL player, one lives in a country club and is trying to launch a career as a singer … you get the idea.
These shows are all in fun, but we thought it would also be fun to gather a group of REAL real housewives of Atlanta for a viewing party to react to “The Real Housewives.”
We’re looking for housewives, stay-at-home moms, call ‘em what you will, from all income brackets, of all races, from all geographic points in the metro area.
We want to know: What makes you a real housewife?
Make sure you use a real email address! I will contact some submitters and arrange for the viewing party.
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Havana Sandwich Shop heavily damaged by fire
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Havana Sandwich Shop, which filled diners’ cravings for pressed sandwiches for more than three decades, was severely damaged by fire.
The small, bright yellow cinder block building on Buford Highway was strictly no frills dining with some of the best homestyle Cuban food around. Customers placed their orders at the counter, then waited at small tables for their numbers to be called.
Debbie Benedit, her late husband, Eddie, and his father and brothers opened the sandwich shop in 1976. The Benedits came to the United States from Cuba in the early 1960s, according to an article on ajc.com.
Are you a big Havana Sandwich Shop fan? Where will you get your Cuban food fix until it, hopefully, reopens?
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Bank changes continue to evolve
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wells Fargo & Co. and Wachovia became the latest financial players to strike a deal.
Wachovia said it agreed to be acquired by Wells Fargo in a $15.1 billion, all-stock deal, beating back rival Citigroup’s proposal to buy Wachovia’s banking operations, according to an AP article.
“The Wachovia-Wells deal, announced Friday, comes in a turbulent time for banks and financial firms as they grapple with the ongoing credit crisis, which led to the recent bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. and the failure of Washington Mutual Inc.,” the article stated. Earlier, JPMorgan Chase agreed to buy Washington Mutual.
In the near term, customers shouldn’t notice much difference, aside from getting new checks and ATM cards. Still, some consumer advocates worry about an eventual increase in fees, lower interest rates on deposits and the closing of unprofitable branches.
What are your concerns about the recent deals and the health your financial institutions?
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Bank changes continue to evolve
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wells Fargo & Co. and Wachovia became the latest financial players to strike a deal.
Wachovia said it agreed to be acquired by Wells Fargo in a $15.1 billion, all-stock deal, beating back rival Citigroup’s proposal to buy Wachovia’s banking operations, according to an AP article.
“The Wachovia-Wells deal, announced Friday, comes in a turbulent time for banks and financial firms as they grapple with the ongoing credit crisis, which led to the recent bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. and the failure of Washington Mutual Inc.,” the article stated. Earlier, JPMorgan Chase agreed to buy Washington Mutual.
In the near term, customers shouldn’t notice much difference, aside from getting new checks and ATM cards. Still, some consumer advocates worry about an eventual increase in fees, lower interest rates on deposits and the closing of unprofitable branches.
What are your concerns about the recent deals and the health your financial institutions?
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Biden vs. Palin: What do you expect?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The debate between VP rivals Sen. Joe Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin will pit a 35-year congressional veteran against a newcomer to the national political scene. And some people expect it to be a verbal bloodbath.
Interest has heightened in the debate since airing of several Palin interviews in which she came across as being ill-prepared to take on rough foreign policy and economic issues. Biden, according to some, must tread carefully so as not to be seen attacking Palin personally. Palin clearly propelled the Republican ticket forward after the addition to the ticket, but since then her popularity has fallen.
A Washington Post-ABC News Poll found 6 in every 10 voters see her as lacking the experience to be an effective president, and a third are now less likely to vote for McCain because of her, according to an article in the Post. One thing is clear, they both will have to stay focused on how each ticket will deal with the pressing issues of the economy and foreign policy.
What are your expectations for the debate?
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Older and working for the fun of it
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Many retirement-age Americans say they’ll continue to work, not just for the money, but for the fun of it.
A random telephone survey of 1,515 workers conducted by Sun Life Financial Inc. indicates nearly half - 48 percent - of them expect to be working at the traditional retirement age of 67, according to an AP article.
Other reasons cited include: Love of career, staying close to people and keeping health care benefits.
What about you? Are you 67 and still working? If so, why? Or, are you enjoying your golden years away from the job?
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Are Clear lanes worth the money?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Passengers at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport now have the option of paying extra to zip through security lanes.
To use the Clear lanes, passengers pay a $128 annual fee and, so far, more than 11,000 customers in Atlanta have signed on, said Steven Brill, whose New York-based company, Clear, offers the service.
Clear promises a 5-minute travel time through security. The service, which has about 200,000 customers nationwide, is designed primarily for business travelers.
But Hartsfield is considered a jewel in the company’s crown. About 86 million people fly through the airport each year.
Are you a Clear customer? If so, how much time do you think you’ve saved? Any complaints? Or, if you haven’t signed up, would you pay extra to breeze through security?
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Finding more gas at the pump?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This morning, I did an unscientific, drive-by survey of gas stations in Marietta. Absent were the long lines of just a few days ago, although I did see several stations with darkened pumps.
Does the crisis appear to be easing? Did you have to wait in line to fill up? Still hard to find gas? Have you had a hard time finding premium gasoline?
Also, how would you rate the state’s handling of the gas crisis? Did Sonny do or do nothing much?
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