Last week's media hype on Shirley Sherrod and the Department of Agriculture obliterated what should have been a triumphant moment for the nation: President Barack Obama's signing of the historic Dodd-Frank bill and the creation of a new bureau dedicated to consumer protection. As with all major legislation, a signing ceremony still occurred; but it's significance was dwarfed by the tabloid effects of the Sherrod incident.

It took more than a year of federal deliberations to develop a bill that both the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives could agree to support. From the outset, it seemed that the deep pockets of Wall Street bankers and their army of lobbyists would overwhelm a grassroots coalition of consumer groups, civil rights organizations, clergy and unions in a modern day David and Goliath saga.

According to the Center for Responsive Politics, in 2009 alone, $465 million was spent by the financia.
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Everyday family savings made easy, fun

Family Features

The U.S. economy is showing signs of a turnaround; however, the recession taught many Americans responsible spending habits that will stick with them years to come. Many families are implementing small everyday changes that will curb those small everyday costs that can really add up over time. Some of the best, simplest and most fun ways that your family can start saving money today include:

Kick Paid Directory Assistance to the Curb

Americans make billions of calls to paid directory assistance services every year, and some providers charge as much as $2 per call. Next time, you reach for the phone to call 411, try a free alternative service such as 1-800-Justdial (1-800-587-8342). 1-800-Justdial provides live operator service 24 hours a day, delivering local listings via text or e-mail and can even connect your call free of charge. You can also get recommendations for local restaurants, plumbers, tow trucks, dentists.
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