Consumer Fraud Task Force Urges Consumers To Know Their Rights When Dealing With Debt Collectors

Brought to you by the Better Business Bureau:

With complaints over debt collection practices skyrocketing, consumers in Missouri and Illinois are urged to protect themselves against bogus and unscrupulous collectors.

The Consumer Fraud Task Force says that consumers need to know their rights if they are contacted by businesses attempting to recover debts. The Federal Trade Commission’s Fair Debt Collection Practices Act sets out specific rules on how collectors must operate.

“In this difficult economy, people who have never before dealt with debt collectors are receiving phone calls,” the Task Force said. “Sometimes, these callers are trying to collect on debts that were settled years ago or never existed at all. But even callers trying to collect on legitimate debts can become overly aggressive and violate consumers’ rights.”

Some of the questionable or illegal debt collecting practices include:

· Attempting to collect “phantom” or “zombie” debts. Most often, these are debts that were never owed or were previously paid or otherwise discharged.

· Harassing or intimidating collection tactics, usually involving persistent phone calls.

· Telling debtors they will be arrested or have their property seized unless they make payment.

· Claiming that the collector is a lawyer or affiliated with a law firm when that is not the case.

· Withdrawing money from a consumer’s bank account or charging his or her credit card without consent.

· Giving information on a debt to a third party.

· Communicating with a consumer after receiving written notice from the consumer that he or she is refusing to pay or no longer wants to be called.

The Fair Debt Collections Practices Act attempts to safeguard consumers from unscrupulous collectors. Many states have enacted similar laws. The federal act prohibits debt collectors from using threats of violence or harm against an individual, property or reputation. Collectors cannot threaten to garnish a consumer’s wages unless they intend to do so. The act also requires that collectors send you written proof of your debt. In recent months, consumers across the country have filed numerous cases in federal court alleging violations of the act. Additional information, and the full federal act, can be obtained by going to www.ftc.gov.

The FTC report received more complaints about debt collection than any other single industry in 2010 -- 140,000 complaints, up from 120,000 in 2009. In March, the FTC announced that a national debt collection business had agreed to pay a record $2.8 million to settle charges that its aggressive collection techniques violated federal law.

The Task Force is a coalition of local, state and federal government agencies and nonprofit business and consumer groups in Missouri and Illinois that work together to protect consumer and donor rights and guard against fraud. Previous Task Force releases have focused on tax scams, timeshare resellers, home remodelers, work-at-home scams, sweepstakes offers, online auctions, credit repair scams, debt management advice, foreclosure scams, extended auto service contracts, fire and police organizations.

FTC Permanently Halts Operation that Allegedly Made Bogus Claims about Eliminating Consumers' Debt

Two Principals Banned from Selling Financial Products and Services

As part of its continuing crackdown on scams that target consumers in financial distress, the Federal Trade Commission settled charges against a debt relief operation that allegedly lured consumers nationwide into paying thousands of dollars in up-front fees, but in most cases failed to actually reduce their credit card debts, and in many cases left them even deeper in debt. The proposed FTC settlement orders ban the company, Debt Relief USA, Inc., from doing further business, and ban company principals James Wojcik and Valerie Leath from marketing any financial products and services. Litigation continues against the two other principals, Kelly Reilly and Alvin Bell.

According to the FTC’s complaint, Debt Relief USA and its principals made deceptive claims that consumers who enrolled in their program could eliminate 40 to 60 percent of their credit card debt and be out of debt in 24 to 48 months. The FTC complaint charges that few consumers received the promised results.

Under the proposed settlements, Debt Relief USA, Wojcik, and Leath are required to protect and properly dispose of customers’ personal information. They also are prohibited from misrepresenting relevant facts to consumers.

The proposed settlements also impose a $19.7 million judgment against Wojcik and Leath, which will be suspended because of their inability to pay. If it is determined that the financial information they gave the FTC was untruthful, the full amount of the judgment will become due.

Debt Relief USA has declared bankruptcy. Through settlement of a separate action brought against Debt Relief USA by the Attorney General of Texas, consumers have received $3.7 million in refunds from the company’s bankruptcy estate and will receive additional distributions soon. The FTC participated in the bankruptcy proceeding and worked with the Attorney General of Texas to ensure maximum benefit for consumers. Because the Texas settlement recovered available company funds and provided refunds to consumers, the Commission’s settlement with the company does not involve monetary relief.

Consumers looking for help with credit card debt should be wary of anyone who tells them to stop paying their bills, to pay someone other than their creditors, or to stop talking to their creditors. Consumers should also be careful about paying for financial assistance before they receive it. For more information on dealing with debt, including public service announcements about avoiding debt relief scams, see the Debt Relief Services page of the FTC’s Money Matters website for consumers.

Changes made last year to the FTC’s Telemarketing Sales Rule prohibit companies that sell debt relief services over the telephone from charging fees before they settle or reduce a customer’s credit card or other unsecured debt. This ban on advance fees protects all consumers who have enrolled in a debt relief service since October 27, 2010. For more information about the advance fee ban see: Debt Relief Companies Prohibited From Collecting Advance Fees Under FTC Rule. For guidance to businesses on how to comply with the new Rule, see Debt Relief Services & the Telemarketing Sales Rule: A Guide for Business.

The Commission vote to file the complaint against defendants Debt Relief USA, Inc., Wojcik, Leath, Reilly, and Bell was 5-0. The vote to approve the consent agreement with defendant Debt Relief USA, Inc. was also 5-0. The votes to approve the consent agreements with defendants Wojcik and Leath were 4-0-1, with Commissioner Rosch abstaining on both. The FTC filed the complaint on August 17, 2011, and the proposed consent decrees on August 19, 2011, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division. The proposed consent decrees are subject to court approval.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the law has been or is being violated and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The complaint is not a finding or ruling that the defendant has actually violated the law. Consent decrees are for settlement purposes only and do not constitute an admission by the defendant that the law has been violated. Consent decrees have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.

Take Care When Paying Medical Bills

Make sure your insurer will pick up its part of the tab. By Cameron Huddleston

I was about to write a check to pay for a medical bill when I realized that I probably didn't owe the amount shown on the invoice. The bill was for a health screening that was performed in late May. I provided my health insurance card at the time of test. But I had a feeling that the lab that actually analyzed the screening samples hadn't bothered to submit its claim to my insurance company before sending me a bill. That's because the bill arrived shortly after the test was done, and I hadn't received a statement from my insurance company that a claim had been submitted. All of this sunk in as I was about to put pen to paper. So I picked up the phone, called the lab and asked whether it had attempted to get my insurance company to pay for the procedure. "No," the customer service representative said. Just as I thought. So before you pay a medical bill, make sure the claim has been submitted to your insurance company. Don't ignore the bill – you don't want credit collectors knocking on your door. Just make a quick call to the medical facility that sent the bill or to your insurer to find out whether you're really on the hook for the full amount. Reprinted with permission. All Contents ©2011 The Kiplinger Washington Editors.

Top 10 Bad Credit Installment Loans

More and more people are choosing installment loans to help with unexpected emergencies. Bad credit installment loans are repaid with a fixed regular installment, and a rate of interest fixed for the duration of the loan. Whether you are funding an education, purchasing a vehicle or simply need cash, bad credit installment loans might just be the thing you have been looking for.

How can I find a loan that is best for me?

To find the loan that is best for you, talk to a loan specialist who will be happy to work with you to establish a loan best suited to your needs. Most installment loans come with terms from one to five years. Regardless of your credit history, bad credit installment loans are there for your convenience and are a wonderful resource for people with bad credit.

How can installment loans help rebuild my credit?

Installment loans for bad credit give you options. It also gives you the opportunity to rebuild your credit score as long as you make your timely payments and stay within your credit limit. It is extremely important to do extensive research before choosing a lender. Lenders typically offer loans at very competitive interest rates, so shop around and choose the lender that offers the best possible deal. There are a variety of bad credit installment loans to choose from, some are:

1.                     Payday bad credit installment loans: A payday bad credit installment loan is similar to a short term installment loan: you make small payments each payday until your loan is paid off. If you are 18 years or older, with a reliable source of income, you may already pre-qualify for a payday installment loan. If you choose to apply online, you will need to have direct deposit on your bank account and your money can be deposited in less than two hours.

2.                     Short Term bad credit installment loans: Short term installment loans of up to $150,000 can be yours in hours. These installment loans are similar to bad credit payday loans but have the option to pay back the loan in smaller portions on your paydays until the loan is paid off.

3.                     Secured bad credit installment loan: Offers a larger amount in loan and longer repayment period. This loan requires collateral.

4.                     Unsecured bad credit installment loan: The unsecured installment loan for people with bad credit do not re not require collateral.

5.                     Vehicle bad credit installment loans: Do you have a motor vehicle emergency? Installment loans can get you back on the road in no time. Whether you have a flat tire or other serious vehicle problem, you can apply for an installment loan to take care of all your auto expenses.

6.                     Personal bad credit installment loans: If you need cash in a hurry, you can take out a personal loan with terms of one to five years. A personal loan can be used for anything.

7.                     Education bad credit installment loans: Not sure how you are going to pay for college expenses? An education loan just might be your answer.

8.                     Consolidation bad credit installment loans: Can help you consolidate all your debts by paying them off with one single loan amount.

9.                     Mortgage bad credit installment loans: Loans for home are known as mortgages. The borrower can make monthly installment payments on the mortgage.

10.                  Credit Cards bad credit installment loans: Credit card loans are open-end installment loans where you make monthly payments until the loan is paid off.

What to Look Out for When Signing for Bad Credit Installment Loans

·                                 Increase in interest rates: Late payments of installments can lead to increase in the interest rate.

·                                 Early pay off: If you repay the loan earlier than the time period, the early payment penalty can lead to an increase in charges or fees.

·                                 Automatic Loan Payments: You can avoid late fees by setting up a monthly automatic payment withdrawal from your personal checking account. If you choose to go this route, make sure that there is enough money in your bank account on the withdrawal date otherwise you will end up paying an overdraft fee.

BBB Offers Advise to Protect College Students from ID Theft on Campus

Article from BBB eBridge (http://www.enewsbuilder.net/stlouisbbbnews/e_article002182100.cfm?x=bjQDrgQ,bbpnTWW3,w)

August 12, 2011 7 Tips To Guard Against ID Theft On Campus As college students prepare to head back to campus in the next few weeks, fighting fraud may not be at the top of their list of priorities. College students are susceptible to identity theft, however, and the BBB recommends that they take seven simple steps to protect themselves on campus. “Identity thieves don’t care if you’re a struggling student and don’t have a penny to your name,” said Michelle L. Corey, BBB President and CEO. “Sometimes all they want is to exploit your clean credit record. By establishing good habits for monitoring and detecting fraud, students can lay a path for healthy financial practices for the rest of their lives.” Last year, 8.1 million American adults became victims of ID theft, with losses totaling $37 billion, according to a report from Javelin Strategy and Research. Young adults aged 18-24 are among the last to detect identity theft when compared to other age groups. It took them 132 days on average to spot it, and their average loss was roughly five times more than the amount lost by other age groups. The BBB recommends that college-bound students take the following seven steps to fight identity theft on campus: Send sensitive mail to your parents’ home or a post office box. School mailboxes are not always secure and often can be accessed easily in a dorm or apartment. Important documents should be stored under lock and key. This includes your Social Security card, passport and bank and credit card statements. Shred credit card offers and any paper documents that have sensitive financial information rather than just tossing them out. Never lend your credit or debit card to anyone. Just say no if your friend wants to borrow your card or asks you to co-sign for a loan or financing for items like a TV. Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus and anti-spyware software. Always install any updates and patches to your computer’s operating system or browser software, which help keep your computer safe from any new advances by identity thieves online. Always check your credit or debit card statements closely for any suspicious activity. The sooner you identify any potential fraud, the less you’ll suffer in the long run. Check out unfamiliar websites with the BBB. Look for the BBB Accredited Business seal along with other trust seals; click on the seals to confirm that they are legitimate. Check your credit report at least once a year. You are entitled to one free report a year from each of the three reporting bureaus: TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. Look for any suspicious activity or inaccuracies. You can do this for free by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com. For more advice on fighting fraud and managing personal finances, visit www.bbb.org or call 314-645-3300.

Published by Better Business Bureau Copyright © 2011 BBB Serving Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois. All rights reserved.

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FTC Charges Marketers with Tricking People Who Applied for Payday Loans

FTC Charges Marketers with Tricking People Who Applied for Payday Loans; Used Bank Account Information to Charge Consumers for Unwanted Programs

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has halted an online operation that allegedly debited consumers’ bank accounts without their consent when consumers visited the defendants’ websites seeking payday loans. The court also froze the defendants’ assets, pending further court proceedings. As part of its continuing efforts to protect financially strapped consumers during the economic downturn, the FTC seeks to permanently stop the illegal practices and make the defendants refund consumers’ money.

According to the FTC’s complaint, the defendants’ websites, such as mypaydayangel.com and juniperloans.com, asked for consumers’ personal and financial information, such as social security, driver license, and bank account numbers. Near the end of the application form, the defendants offered unrelated “Direct Benefits” and “Voice Net” programs for food, travel and merchandise discounts, or for long distance calling and Internet access. Many consumers who clicked to “submit” a payday loan application were enrolled unwittingly into the programs, which initially charged their bank accounts up to $59.90 per month, and later charged up to $99.90 per year. Consumers often did not notice the program offers, and some people who declined the offers were charged for the programs anyway, the FTC alleged.

As alleged in the complaint, the defendants sent consumers’ bank account information to Landmark Clearing Inc. and other payment processors to electronically generate remotely created payment orders that debited consumers’ bank accounts. Consumers typically discovered the problem when an unexpected debit appeared on their bank statement, or when their bank told them their account was overdrawn. They learned that Direct Benefits or Voice Net received the payments only after they contacted their bank or saw an online copy of the payment order. Consumers who called the defendants for a refund often got the run-around. Many consumers had to dispute the transaction or close their bank accounts to get a refund or stop the defendants from debiting their accounts.

The defendants are charged with violating the FTC Act by obtaining consumers’ bank account information and debiting their accounts without their consent, and failing to adequately disclose that, in addition to using consumers’ financial information for a payday loan application, they would use it to charge consumers for enrollment in unrelated programs and services.

The FTC complaint names Direct Benefits Group LLC, also doing business as Direct Benefits Online and Unified Savings; Voice Net Global LLC, also doing business as Thrifty Dial; Solid Core Solutions Inc.; WKMS Inc.; Kyle Wood; and Mark Berry.

The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint was 5-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

NOTE: The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the law has been or is being violated, and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The complaint is not a finding or ruling that the defendant has actually violated the law. The case will be decided by the court.

The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them.

Give Your Children the Building Blocks to Home Ownership

Give Your Children the Building Blocks to Home Ownership
7 Steps to a Solid Beginning
By Elizabeth Rose, CMPS, Speaker, Coach and Trainer



Owning a home is not only the American Dream, it is considered the strategic piece of a personal financial portfolio. According to the Federal Reserve Bank VIP Forum, people who own homes have greater net worth than those who rent.

As they grow older, kids often assume they will own a home without giving it much consideration. Sometimes they imagine they will own a home just like Mom and Dad's, not realizing it took their parents many years of hard work and financial discipline to become homeowners.

Homeownership requires discipline, effort, commitment, responsibility, and accountability, and yet our educational system does not always provide our children with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the process, much less lay the groundwork in advance so they are mortgage-ready when the time comes. This begs the question: What can we, as parents, do to help our kids avoid some of our own mistakes and prepare them for the largest financial transaction in their adult life?

The Latin derivative of the word "education" means "to bring forth from within," which is predicated on the idea that we all have it within us to learn and grow. But where do we start helping our children learn and grow in the area of homeownership? What exactly do our children need to know now, especially as teenagers and college students, so they'll be prepared and financially-able when they want to buy a home?

The following suggestions will help you start a dialogue with your children, and provide them with the tools they need to get a jump-start on the path to "mortgage-readiness."

1. Think about the timing. Tell your children to really be sure about when they want to own a home, and then advise them to work toward it. If they're not intentional about getting there someday, they won't. Simple as that.
   
   
2. Get a job. Tell your children to consider getting a job during school, even a part-time job. They will need money to buy a house, but they also need a steady employment history, so they should start building up their resume as soon as possible. This will also be helpful when the time comes to secure a permanent position in their field of study. FHA loans, in many circumstances, will accept a college transcript as a component of employment history. However, your children will need the "ability to repay" which comes from steady fulltime employment.
   
   
3. Create a budget. And stick to it! Explain that their budget should be detailed enough to account for all the income and outflow each month...even the Friday night date or pizza night with friends. Also, remind them to be careful with the debit card and don't forget to record the entries into their log. The challenge with using a debit card is that we feel good since we are paying with "cash." However the convenience of the plastic cash leads to temptation to spend money you might not otherwise spend. Last, tell them to include an emergency cash fund in their budget for unforeseen expenses. Many people fail to do this and it is a great practice to begin early in adult life. The key here is for your children to be conscious of their spending.
   
   
4. Build up your credit score. Suggest that your child get a credit card or two, but no more than that, and stick to a Visa or Mastercard. Also suggest that they avoid department store cards as they can be hazardous! They often carry higher interest rates and tempt people to buy things they don't really need. Your children should routinely charge small transactions on their Visa or Mastercard to keep the account reporting as "active." However, stress to them the importance of paying off the balance monthly when possible, and being cautious in carrying a balance over an extended period of time. Other advice to pass on: Strive to keep your balances below 18% of the credit limit at all times. Maintain tight control over your spending and your accounts. When you make your payments, be sure they are on time as a late payment can hurt you. Ignoring your financial obligations will always get you into trouble and will lower your credit score. The purpose of the cards is not to build up debt–that's the opposite of what you want. Your goal is to create a history that will indicate to creditors your degree of responsibility in managing your debt. Responsible use of the cards over time will provide you with a healthy credit score, which is critical if you plan to purchase a home.
   
   
5. Minimize student loan borrowing, if possible. If it is necessary for your children to obtain student loans for their education, borrow the smallest amount you can get by with. Paying back student loans can help build their credit as well, but the monthly payments (which are initially deferred) will come due when they graduate. The monthly payments will be calculated as liabilities when qualifying for a mortgage, which will reduce their purchasing power. Also, remind your children not to use their loan money to buy a laptop, new phone, or pizza. They should keep themselves financially lightweight.
   
   
6. Learn about home finance and real estate. Obtaining a mortgage and purchasing a home are not simple things and can be emotional and stressful. There's a lot to learn and many questions will arise, such as: What is involved in qualifying for a mortgage? What kind of down payment is required? What other money is needed for the transaction? How long should I keep the house before I sell it? Are property values increasing or decreasing in my area? Tell your children to learn about the process and the lingo. You could even suggest they talk to your mortgage professional to learn some great things they can do now so they're in a good position when they are ready to buy a home. You could even work with your children to stay up-to-date on the industry, and consider reading a book or two on the subject together. It will help them immensely down the road.
   
   
7. Learn basic maintenance. One of the costs associated with homeownership is maintenance. Keeping a home well maintained is vital to keeping expenses down in the long term and will make it easier to sell later. Help your children learn how to make minor home repairs, which will save them a hefty amount of money as a homeowner.

And last but not least...tell your children to save, save, save! Whether they buy used books, drive an older car, or skip spring break, they should save a percentage of what they earn (for instance, save one out of every three dollars). Also, be sure to model that savings behavior for your children, as kids often mimic what they see rather than just do what they're told.

A great guideline for saving can be found in one of the greatest financial books of all time, The Richest Man in Babylon. Author George S. Clason says, "Gold cometh gladly and in increasing quantity to any man who will put by not less than one-tenth of his earnings to create an estate for his future and that of his family." This timeless classic reminds us to pay ourselves first and sock away ten percent of our earnings for the future.

The bottom line is that the American Dream is still alive and well. There is no secret recipe. It's a matter of spending and saving wisely and learning the necessary steps to mortgage readiness. If you have any questions about your personal situation, contact the professional who supplied you with this month's issue of YOU Magazine. Take the first step now to set your children on the path to home ownership.

Elizabeth Rose is a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist and self-proclaimed economic enthusiast. As a national speaker, she provides training and mentoring to mortgage professionals across the U.S.

Choosing the Perfect Preschool for Your Infant

Yikes, Is It Time to Go Back to Work Already?
Choosing the Perfect Preschool for Your Infant
By Blythe Lipman, Author, Help! My Baby Came Without Instructions



Finding the perfect preschool for your infant can be really scary. How can you possibly trust another person with your precious bundle? You will be looking for a school where the infant care is the best, the school the cleanest, and the teachers experienced, warm and fuzzy.

Does this really exist? And how will you know when you've found that perfect place? A place that makes you feel totally comfortable as you drop off your baby each morning. A school that will provide your baby with the love, nurturing and care she needs. That will be the perfect substitute when you can't be with her.

The following checklist should help make your decision a little easier. Print it out and take it with you. And don't be afraid to ask any question. Nothing is off limits when it concerns your baby.

Pre-School Interview Checklist
When you call for an appointment, does the director speak to you?	Yes ____	No ____
What is the director's policy for having you visit the school?	Yes ____	No ____
Does the director keep you waiting more than a few minutes when you arrive?	Yes ____	No ____
Does the director give you all the time you need to talk about the program and answer all your questions?	Yes ____	No ____
Does the director show you the school's Mission Statement?	Yes ____	No ____
Does the director give you a booklet containing information about the school?	Yes ____	No ____
Will the director supply you with references?	Yes ____	No ____
At first glance, does the preschool look clean?	Yes ____	No ____
Does it smell clean?	Yes ____	No ____
Is the preschool licensed by the state?	Yes ____	No ____
If no, why not? _________________________________________________________
Does the school do a background check before hiring a teacher?	Yes ____	No ____
What kind of experience do the teachers have? ________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________
The Infant Room
Is the infant room clean?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the electric outlets covered?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the cabinets have childproof locks on them?	Yes ____	No ____
Do you see any cleaning spray bottles sitting on the counters?	Yes ____	No ____
Do you see anything that would be dangerous lying around in a baby's reach?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the counters clean and uncluttered?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the diaper changing tables clean?	Yes ____	No ____
Are there gloves available for diaper changing?	Yes ____	No ____
Is there a crib for each baby?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the cribs in good condition? (Test to see that they are not wobbly or have any loose screws.)	Yes ____	No ____
Are there enough high chairs or a feeding table for mealtimes?	Yes ____	No ____
Are there enough swings, ExerSaucers, bouncy seats, teething toys, strollers, etc. available for the babies?	Yes ____	No ____
Is the above equipment in good condition?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the toys and equipment age appropriate?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the toys and equipment cleaned with bleach water each day?	Yes ____	No ____
Is there a bin to put dirty toys that get used during the day? (For dropped toys, or toys that other babies chew on.)	Yes ____	No ____
Is there happy music playing in the room or lullabies if it is naptime?	Yes ____	No ____
Is there a fire exit door with a sign posted above it?	Yes ____	No ____
Does the room look like a place that your baby could have fun, explore and blossom?	Yes ____	No ____
Do you have an overall good feeling about the room?	Yes ____	No ____
_____________________________________________________________________
Staff
Is there one child care provider for every four babies?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the same caregivers take care of the babies each day?	Yes ____	No ____
Do different teachers come in for the late shift (3:00-6:00pm)?	Yes ____	No ____
Do they have CPR and First Aid Certification?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the caregivers friendly and eager to tell you about themselves and the program?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers act in a professional manner?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers look clean and neat and are they dressed appropriately?	Yes ____	No ____
Are the caregivers warm and responsive to your baby when you visit?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers know what to do if a baby is choking?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers tell you about the daily activities?	Yes ____	No ____
Does the school do a background check before hiring a teacher?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers take the babies outside, play music, do tummy time, etc.?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers have specialists that come in for music, movement, etc.?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers send home daily reports?	Yes ____	No ____
Do the caregivers want to know your baby's schedule at home?	Yes ____	No ____
Do they want to know how you soothe your baby when she is irritable or crying?	Yes ____	No ____
What is their illness policy?	Yes ____	No ____
Are there conferences or just daily check-ins?	Yes ____	No ____
Are you allowed to talk directly with the teacher by phone or just the director if you need to call? ____________________________________________________________________
What are their rules for visiting your baby at school? ____________________________________________________________________
What is the policy for drop-off and pick-up? ____________________________________________________________________
If someone else needs to pick up your baby, do they need a special card, password, driver's license, etc.? ____________________________________________________________________
Do they use the same substitutes all the time? (So they know the babies and their schedules.) ____________________________________________________________________
Do you have an overall good feeling about the caregivers and the infant room?	Yes ____	No ____
____________________________________________________________________

Blythe's Final Thoughts:

If you like the preschool, drop in unannounced.

Before you make a decision, call with any questions.

If you get the cold shoulder or you feel like they are too busy and you are unimportant...
FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL

Once your child is enrolled, if you are told you can't visit anytime...
FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL

If the facility looks, smells or feels dirty...
FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL

If the caregivers are dressed inappropriately...
FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL

If the staff seems unhappy and not having fun...
FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL

Would you feel good leaving your baby at this preschool each day?
Yes___ No___

If you feel great about the preschool then sign the papers. But if something feels amiss, even if you can't figure out what it is, go with your intuition, it's usually right!

Above all, you want to be able to enjoy watching your baby blossom and grow in her new environment knowing you made the right decision.

Blythe Lipman is the president of Baby Instructions. She is passionate about babies, toddlers and their parents. After working in the field for over twenty-five years, she wrote her third award-winning book, Help! My Baby Came Without Instructions, which is available at www.babyinstructions.com. You can hear Blythe's weekly radio show on Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. EST at www.toginet.com. Blythe is available for in-home, video and telephone consultations. © Blythe Lipman 2011.

Making the Most of the Summer Harvest

You Say Tomato...
Making the Most of the Summer Harvest
By Kirk Leins



For tomato lovers everywhere, the summer months mark the time of year when this wonderful fruit is at its absolute tastiest. Whether a summertime tomato is harvested from a backyard garden or purchased from a quality purveyor, it is simply one of the finest fresh ingredients available to nearly every home chef.

What is a Tomato?
Scientifically speaking, a tomato is a fruit and not a vegetable. This is because a true fruit is developed from the ovary in the base of the plant's flower and contains the edible seeds of the plant. Carrots, broccoli, and lettuce develop differently as they do not have seeds within the part we eat and are therefore considered vegetables.

Within the plant world, tomatoes are members of the nightshade family (Solanaceae). While the nightshade family is responsible for other healthy offerings – such as potatoes, eggplant, and peppers – it also includes some very toxic plants like the deadly nightshade (belladonna). It's a high concentration of alkaloids that makes belladonna, as well as the green foliage of most nightshade plants, so dangerous.

The irony here is that the production of alkaloids is a normal biochemical activity for most plants. Alkaloids contain nitrogen and actually help protect plants from being completely devoured by insects. The good news is when it comes to the food produced by nightshades, the alkaloid level is relatively low. However, these low levels do explain some people's aversion to the aforementioned nightshade foods.

If you are sensitive to these types of foods, I recommend eating them in smaller doses and only when they are ripe. Ripening, along with cooking, dramatically reduces these already low alkaline levels. This probably explains why some people could never eat a raw green bell pepper but have no problem when a red bell pepper (a more ripened version) is sautéed in olive oil or fire-roasted over a hot grill.

Types of Tomatoes
There are literally thousands of different cultivars of tomatoes. Not to digress but the word "cultivar" is actually a portmanteau, or combination of the words "cultivated" and "variety." In plain English, cultivar simply refers to one variety of any cultivated plant.

Like many other plants, each tomato cultivar grows better in specific climates as well as during specific times of the year. As opposed to attempting to break down every cultivar, I thought I'd take a few moments to talk about a few broader tomato classifications.

Cherry and Grape Tomatoes
At one end of the size spectrum, we have cherry tomatoes and their diminutive cousin, the grape tomato. Averaging 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter, these tomatoes are widely available and extremely underrated. Many versions are actually sold still on the vine. They generally have an outstanding sweet, tomato taste and are perfect for many different salads. I'll show you one of my favorite salads later in the article.

Beefsteak Tomatoes
On the other end of the spectrum are beefsteak tomatoes that exceed 10 centimeters in diameter. These tomatoes, along with various smaller classifications, are also widely available but oftentimes lackluster in quality. The reason for this mediocrity has to do with modern technology.

Tomatoes in general go from perfectly ripe to rotten very quickly. So quickly, in fact, that it is very hard for large growers to transport their tomatoes without the fruit going south. For many, the solution is to pick the tomatoes while they're still green and then ripen them artificially in an ethylene bath. This practice may make the tomatoes travel better but it results in the purchase of a virtually unripe piece of fruit.

My personal solution is to buy these larger tomatoes from either quality markets where they are sold still on the vine, or from vendors who set up stands by the roadside or inside of farmer's markets. Tomatoes sold by these purveyors are not only vine-ripened, but they are also brought to market on a more regular basis and intended for quicker consumption. They are well worth any extra money they cost. But it's important to know that when it comes to great taste at a low price, nothing beats a tomato that's grown in a backyard garden.

Speaking of great taste, one classification of tomato that is turning up everywhere is known as an Heirloom. While they do vary in size and color, tomatoes tagged as Heirlooms share a few common traits. First and foremost, they must be naturally pollinated and have received no artificial genetic modifications. After that, however, there is much dispute over which tomatoes qualify. Most of the debate is either over how long the strain has been in existence, or the method in which the seeds were handed down. Regardless, if you can get your hands on Heirloom Tomatoes, I recommend doing so.

For any of these larger tomato varieties, I love slicing them thinly and using them on any burger or sandwich. My second recipe this month will be one of my favorite sandwiches featuring the tomato.

Plum Tomatoes
Tomatoes that are elongated (7-9 centimeters long and 4-5 centimeters wide) are known as plum tomatoes. These are also known as Roma tomatoes as they are popular throughout the Mediterranean. While they are tasty when allowed to vine-ripen, many stores receive their plum tomatoes on the unripe side.

Unless I can procure a high quality, fresh plum tomato, my personal preference is to buy them canned. If you want to do the same, you should look for plum tomatoes that are grown and packed in the San Marzano region of Italy, as these are some of the sweetest available. They are great for sauces, stews, and even quick blender salsas.

For the most part, when I cook with tomatoes as part of a dish, I prefer using canned rather than fresh as they produce a more consistent result. The only exception I'll make is when I have an abundance of summertime tomatoes on hand and desperately need to use them up. My last recipe will show you how to do just that.

Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Salad (Serves 3 to 4)

• 15-20 cherry or grape tomatoes, split in half lengthwise
• 1 English (hothouse) cucumber, split in half lengthwise, seeded with a spoon and cut into 1/4-inch slices
• Hand-torn basil leaves
• Crumbled goat cheese

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp sherry vinegar
• 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small shallot, minced fine or grated
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a large bowl, mix together all the dressing ingredients. Add cucumber slices, tomato halves, and basil leaves, and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least one hour. Liberally scatter crumbled goat cheese on top of salad and serve.

Note: While the salad can be made ahead of time, it is at its best when eaten on the day it's made.

The Ultimate B.L.T.A. (Makes 2 sandwiches)

• 4 slices of quality bread, very lightly toasted
• 4-6 slices of quality smoked bacon, fried crisp but not overcooked
• 4-6 thick slices of heirloom tomato
• 1 ripe Haas avocado, skinned and seeded
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 2-4 whole leaves of Butterleaf lettuce
• Real mayonnaise
• Kosher Salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a bowl, combine avocado and lemon juice. Season the ingredients with salt and pepper, and mash well with a fork. Spread equal portions of avocado mixture on two slices of bread. Spread the remaining two slices of bread with mayonnaise. On the slices with the avocado, layer an equal number of tomato slices and season with salt and pepper. Top with an equal number of bacon slices, lettuce, and remaining slices of bread. Cut in half on the diagonal and serve.

Roasted Tomatoes with Shrimp and Tarragon (Serves 2 to 4)

• 1.5 lbs. medium-sized shrimp, peeled and de-veined
• 3 to 4 cups very ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1/4 cup Italian parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup fresh tarragon, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• A large pinch of crushed red pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven's broiler to its lowest setting. Combine all of the ingredients, except shrimp, in a gratin dish or small casserole dish. Toss to fully combine and roast for 10 minutes. Remove dish from broiler, add shrimp, and toss again. Return dish to the broiler and roast until shrimp are pinkish and opaque, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from broiler, garnish with remaining parsley, and serve along with crusty bread.

Good luck and happy tomato season!

Learning the Art of Compromising

It's My Way or the Highway
Learning the Art of Compromising
By Trevor Kerrick



Compromise is something we all face at one point in our lives. The government has been facing such a situation recently, discussing whether or not to raise the debt ceiling. While the compromises you'll approach may not be as far-reaching as the one Washington has been facing, that doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared.

Ludwig Erhard, a German politician and the Chancellor of West Germany from 1963 through 1966, once noted that, "A compromise is the art of dividing a cake in such a way that everyone believes he has the biggest piece." Here are a few suggestions to help you learn the art of compromising.

Invite a third party to attend
Having someone else in the room to monitor the conversation can avoid some of the traction an intimate conversation brings. A neutral person doesn't give a side an unnatural advantage or outnumber the other. Think of this person as a referee, someone to make sure everything goes smoothly. Encourage this person to give you his or her thoughts–it's always helpful to get a fresh perspective on a situation you're familiar with.

Listen to the other side's argument completely
Just because you're there to present your views doesn't mean you can't listen to what the other side has to say. Perhaps they have another approach you weren't aware of, or they see a flaw in your plan that you didn't see. Recognize their concern and points before listing yours so that first, it proves you're willing to listen and conduct this compromise in a civil manner and second, that you aren't there to attack or discredit their argument. Show them the courtesy and respect of acknowledging their argument and they should respond in kind.

Don't go in expecting to win
Unless you have specific data that proves that their solution will not work, do not walk in expecting to win. If you walk in to the meeting thinking you've already won, then why go? There is a difference between confidence and arrogance, and your opponent can tell which attitude you have.

If you do have this data, simply present it without malice–don't rub it in. Remember, you're not there to attack them. Give every opportunity to show that you can conduct the conversation in a civil manner, and future conversations will go smoothly.

Don't get defensive
It's important that you take the emotion out of the meeting in order to stay impartial. Just because your position isn't as attractive as the other option does not mean you lost. When presenting your position, honestly list out the pros and cons to your solution–think big picture. If you can't accept your way, flaws and all, your opposition won't either.

Set goals and a deadline for the meeting
The last thing anyone wants is to have something like this dragged out or delayed indefinitely. Set a timetable for this issue to be solved or "Plan B" goes into effect. It's reasonable to think that both parties would like to avoid Plan B, so as long as they are aware of when the negotiations stop taking place they can reach a solution before the deadline.

Hopefully your future compromises will go smoothly with these tips. Remember it's not your way or the highway–there's more than one path to a destination!
Trevor Kerrick earned his degree in Technical Communication, with a minor in Mass Communications, from Texas Tech University. He researches and writes about communication and new media.

Advance Fee Loan Scams

Advance fee loan fraud takes advantage of the most vulnerable members of our society. These leeches often promise large unsecured loans to people who are unable to have a loan approved through traditional financial institutions, or take advantage of trusting souls with little financial experience. Armed with a smooth-as-silk sales routine and a complete lack of conscience, these scam artists often steal amounts that range from hundreds to thousands of dollars from unsuspecting consumers. Adding insult to injury, these losers often gather enough personal information from their victims to make them candidates for identity theft. Don't become a victim! Please review and share the tips below.

Loan fraud warning signs:

1.                 Be especially wary of unsolicited calls, e-mails or letters offering you a loan,

2.                 Calls about a delinquent debt from unknown numbers, claiming to represent a collection agency or cash advance company (especially if you know you have no such delinquency).

3.                 Requests for money to be sent in advance to cover "processing", "application", "insurance", or the "first month's payment" are a red flag of loan scams. Legitimate lenders NEVER ask for these things to be paid before a loan is disbursed.

4.                 Once you fall for a loan scam, the greedy thieves may ask for even more money by telling that the original amount was erroneous, insufficient upon a second look at your credit, or that you will need to send payment for a second company to complete the loan process.

5.                 Requests that you "wire" or "send" money, as soon as possible to a large U.S. city or to another country, such as Canada, England, or Nigeria, by Western Union, Moneygram, or similar means.

Have you have been scammed? Report It to:

1.                 The FTC

2.                 The FBI

3.                 Your local police (but don't automatically assume the company name and address on your documents are legitimate. Remember, the scammers use fake addresses, those of REAL companies, or random residential addresses far away, in order to hide their operation)

4.                 File fraud alerts with each of the three credit bureaus. This is necessary because the scammers typically obtain your sensitive information, such as your Social Security Number and information on your driver's license. They can use this to obtain credit in your name.

How Advance Fee Loan Scam Artists Find Their Victims

You may be on their list. If you have applied for loans lately, you can be assured that your need for financial assistance has been made known to others besides the company to which you have applied. Often, such consumer information is sold by the credit reporting agencies, passing into hands far and wide. This practice makes it easy for unscrupulous companies to find potential victims for scams like advance fee loans. Be wary of unsolicited offers promising guaranteed loan approval made by mail, phone, or email, especially if personal information is requested. Never give out any personal information, such as your social security or bank account numbers, unless it is to a trusted company with which you have initiated contact.

In other cases, the consumer may come across an advertisement that offers loans, often assuring the reader that poor credit or no credit is not a problem. Commonly appearing in classified sections of newspapers or posted on the Internet, these ads are often placed in very reputable publications or on respected web sites in an attempt to lend credibility to their claims. Others have used the names and logos of well-established financial institutions, counterfeiting their ads but inserting their own contact information, leading the consumer to believe they have placed a call to a legitimate lender.

The Typical Advance Fee Loan Scheme

There are many variations of the advance fee loan scam, but the basic steps remain the same in most of these schemes. First, the consumer is assured that they have qualified for an unsecured loan, usually for a large sum of money. Often, these consumers will be sent authentic looking documents and loan contracts to convince them that this is indeed a legitimate offer. Many times, these documents are embossed with fraudulent logos and names stolen from reputable lenders, helping to convince the consumer that this company can be trusted.

Correspondence from the scammers, including calls, emails, contracts, and letterhead, may seem very professional. This is meant to smooth away any suspicions the target of this scam may be feeling, part of the manipulation these predators practice so skillfully.

Next, the consumer is told that due to the amount of the loan or their questionable credit rating, a deposit is needed. This upfront payment is often explained away as a down payment, insurance premium, or processing fee and can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand. Generally, the scammers will then instruct the consumer to send the deposit through Western Union or Moneygram, and fax applications complete with personal and financial information to them, with the assurance that they will receive their loan very quickly after these steps are taken. Of course, the consumer receives nothing, while the scammer disappears with both the deposit and all the information needed for identity theft.

Some of these fraudulent advance fee loan companies will make repeated demands for money from their victims, convincing them that upon looking up a current credit report, their ratings require a larger deposit than was first quoted. Another common excuse is that the original lender has backed out, but for a larger fee, they can secure another loan for the consumer. With these tactics and others, scammers have often convinced consumers to send substantial sums of money three or four times before they realize they have been victimized.

Usually, by the time the consumer has given up on receiving the funds they expected, coming to the realization they have been scammed, the perpetrators have disappeared. The toll free numbers provided are disconnected or are answered by a recording or machine, the operation probably moved to a new location to stay one step ahead of the law and groom a new batch of potential victims.

No legitimate company will ask for funds in advance of a loan, nor will it ask for any fee to be wired to them directly by Western Union, Moneygram, or any other wire service. Fees incurred in a legitimate loan generally are deducted before the funds are dispersed. These requests should be a clear warning to the consumer, as should any loan company that is pressing you for an instant decision on their offer.

What to Do if You Have Fallen Prey to Advance Fee Loan Fraud

Reporting this crime is essential. Many are ashamed to admit that they have been conned by such schemes, failing to report the fraud due to embarrassment. Those that do not make these crimes known leave the door open for these predators to strike again. While reporting such crimes does not always assure that the scam artist is caught, it does raise awareness of these schemes, shrinking their pool of potential victims. Filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission can be done online in approximately ten minutes. This small investment of your time can help towards shutting these operations down before they victimize scores of other unsuspecting consumers.

If these criminals have collected your personal identifying information, identity theft is a serious risk. With access to information from your social security card, driver’s license, pay stubs, and bank statements, stealing your identity will be quite easy, allowing these scammers to use your credit for their own purposes. Thousands in debt could be run up in your name in a very short period. Checking your credit report every three months to monitor for fraudulent activity is a good idea under such circumstances. If there is a problem, file formal disputes with each credit bureau.

Is Your Cell Phone Bill Too High?

You could save hundreds of dollars a year if you switch to a no-contract plan.
Americans waste an average of nearly $350 a year on wireless service, according to BillShrink, a service that compares rates for phone plans, among other products. Most of the excess spending comes from overestimating how many voice minutes and text messages they need and underestimating how much data usage their plans should cover. It doesn't help that plans from the major wireless carriers make it difficult to balance voice, text and data offerings to get the best price.

As the big carriers grapple with rapid changes in phone technology and competition from Skype and other Internet calling services, their service plans are becoming more and more complex – leaving consumers with a maze of prices and services to navigate. Plus, wireless providers have designed a golden-handcuffs business model that dangles an inexpensive or free phone in exchange for committing to a two-year contract. Breaking that contract means you're on the hook for a prorated fee that can be as high as $350. And to entice you to stay, your carrier is likely to nudge you to upgrade to a slick new gadget just as your contract is about to expire.

When it's time to renew your wireless contract, think twice about your options before you sign on the dotted line. These FAQs will help you figure out whether you'll benefit from switching to a no-contract plan.

How do I know a no-contract plan is best for me? It may not be. If you prefer a wide range of services and you like choosing among a variety of phones at low or no cost, a contract with a major carrier is still the best option. And contract-based service may be the most economical if you want to add multiple lines with a family plan. But if you can live without some phone choices and fewer perks – for example, some plans don't offer the fastest network speeds or the best coverage – a prepaid plan could be a winner. Study your current plan to get a sense of the services you use. A tool at BillShrink.com analyzes usage information from your plan and suggests plans that may be a better fit at a better price. The information at MyRatePlan.com can also help you make a choice.

Aren't no-contract plans prepaid? Many are. That means they may charge a flat amount upfront for a month's worth of service, or charge by the day or by the minute, deducting from a preset balance of cash or minutes. They're often a good choice if you tend to use your phone only for emergencies or you are trying to budget phone use for, say, a child. But some carriers have introduced contract-free "post-paid" plans, which bill you every month. These plans offer many of the benefits of contract-based plans, such as 4G network speeds and wide phone selection, and lower monthly charges than contract-based plans, says Schwark Satyavolu, chief executive of BillShrink.

Is there a downside to a no-contract plan? The lack of commitment you enjoy with a contract-free plan also works in a carrier's favor: It can boost rates and change terms anytime. And if you have a prepaid plan and fail to reload your account by the expiration date or a specified time thereafter, you may risk losing your phone number. Also, some plans have extra fees, such as activation charges or daily access charges. And sometimes the phone rebates associated with no-contract programs require you to maintain service for a certain amount of time.

Do I have to wait until the end of my contract to switch? No. Most carriers now charge a prorated fee when you exit a contract early rather than impose the full fee. If you're tethered to a contract, an early-termination fee could be worth the cost if you'd save a lot by switching to a new plan. If you're waiting out your contract's term and want to trim costs, study your most recent bill for each fee, or call your carrier and ask for a breakdown of the expenses line by line. Usually, you're obligated to keep only core services, such as voice, text and data plans. You can drop anything else, such as insurance or a carrier's proprietary navigation application.

Do I have to pay a lot for a phone with a no-contract plan? You'll pay more for a phone than you would if you were signing a contract. Contract plans offer significant discounts on phones because carriers subsidize the phones' costs to draw customers. The Android-powered LG Optimus S, for instance, was recently $20 from Sprint if you ordered it online and agreed to a two-year contract; the nearly identical LG Optimus V from prepaid service Virgin Mobile had a $200 price tag. But over several months you could pay that cost difference many times over on your service bill if you have a contract.

For a price, you can find the latest, greatest technology with no-contract plans. Several services offer Android and BlackBerry phone models. And you could buy an iPhone from AT&T or Verizon and use it with a no-contract plan, but you'd pay $650 for a 16GB iPhone 4, versus $200 if you signed a two-year contract.

Will I be able to surf the Web? Wireless carriers are still figuring out how to structure and price data services, which allow customers to surf the Web and send e-mail on their phones. Some no-contract plans offer unlimited Web surfing and e-mail in all-in-one plans – voice, text and data – that cost $40 to $80, and that could save you money. For example, AT&T has moved to a tiered pricing system, which charges customers based on the amount of data they download. If you have, say, an iPhone with AT&T, you'll pay $15 a month for 200 megabytes of data usage, $25 a month for 2 gigabytes and $45 monthly for 4GB. Verizon Wireless is rolling out a tiered data plan, effective July 7. New customers with smart phones pay monthly prices of $30 for 2GB of data, $50 for 5GB and $80 for 10GB.

Is the service and reception as good with no-contract plans? That depends. Some no-contract carriers are owned by the wireless giants and operate on their networks. Sprint, for example, owns Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile. Others, such as MetroPCS, use separate, smaller networks that may have spotty coverage in some areas and charge extra for roaming.

How do I make the switch? Most carriers will allow you to keep your existing phone number when you move to a new service. And they're required to port a phone number for anyone who stays within a general metropolitan area. Contact your current carrier to ask how best to schedule the move, but don't cancel your service yet.

Make the transfer when you're least likely to need your phone – you won't have service for a few hours, and possibly a day or more. Once you're set up with the new carrier, call the former one to confirm that you're canceling service.

By Lisa Gerstner, Kiplinger.com

Reprinted with permission. All Contents ©2011 The Kiplinger Washington Editors. http://www.kiplinger.com/.