Money
After 12 years, Straight Talk Advice saying goodbye in late Nov
DEAR READERS: Where to begin? I have so many thoughts to impart — in only 630 words. Such is the life of a columnist. I guess I’ll start at the beginning...
21 Comments
On crowded imperiled planet, coexistence is key to survival
Dear Straight Talk: Thank you, panelists, for addressing my question (AUG 11) regarding development of your moral compasses vis-à-vis the five major religions. For my next question, let me describe a time 2000 years ago, when…
6 Comments
Looking forward: Millennial Generation shares challenges for 2015
Dear Readers: The last round of Millennial Generation members (ages 11-33, born 1982-2004) are entering adolescence, while the rest are in various stages of adult launch. This generation inherited multiple wars, planet-wide climate…
8 Comments
Christmas shopping frenzy “on steroids” far adrift from “O Silent Night”
Dear Straight Talk: The winter holidays seem to be a stressed-out “what am I getting” and ”what am I buying” nightmare and I wonder if these once-sacred holidays hold any meaning at all for young people. (Maybe the…
9 Comments
Teen suffers post holiday blues
Dear Straight Talk: It's the day after Christmas and I'm so depressed. We do this whole thing at my grandparents where my relatives buy all this stuff and we spend the day pretending we are so thrilled with what we opened. I just…
70 Comments
Draining friend wants to drain pocketbook next
Dear Straight Talk: I work full time and live on my own while attending community college. A close friend is constantly leaning on me for emotional support around guys, school, body image, etc. I like her, but she is often depressed and…
3 Comments
Is boss out to lunch regarding wages?
Dear Straight Talk: My boss keeps telling me young people have it easy today. But I’ve worked 40 hours a week at $12 an hour for eight months and have been unsuccessful at saving money for college. I ride a bicycle six miles to work,…
6 Comments
Kids in hard-hit family not pulling weight
Dear Straight Talk: I have two daughters in college. Due to the recession, our economic situation changed drastically since they were in high school, where they enjoyed private schools, lessons, cars, trips abroad, etc. How do I get…
0 Comments
College kids give tips on stretching a dollar
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: I’m leaving for college this week and am nervous about finances. I have taken out loans, a grant helps with my dorm and tuition, but there’s not enough to…
1 Comment
Earning money when you’re under 16
DEAR STRAIGHT TALK: I need to raise $300 for driver training in August so I can get my learner’s permit. I don’t like little kids so baby-sitting is out of the question. Mowing…