The economy may be tattered, but there are plenty of reasons for consumers to feel good in this market. For one, it no longer costs more to fill up the gas tank than it costs to take your sweetheart out to dinner. The following price comparisons may inspire gratitude. ...more

November 26, 2008

Everything costs more these days, right? Not really. Despite what you hear on the news about expensive fuel and food, the prices of some consumer items - from women's clothing to electronics - are dropping faster than you can say disinflation. And a week ago, the Consumer Price Index - the yardstick for what people pay for things - showed prices are moderating, as long you exclude the big two. ...more

June 29, 2008

AVON PARK — Lakeshore Mall won't open its doors until 6 a.m. Friday. But by then, all the department stores will have been open at least an hour. The mall will be a madhouse. "We just try not to get trampled," said Jenny Cheek, the mall's general manager. "It's not for the faint of heart. The die-hard shoppers come in for the door-busters. For some women, it's like an all-day experience. Some will go home, then come back later in the day." Every store will have a sale, Cheek said. "It's the biggest shopping day of the year." Wal-Mart is open all night, so some shoppers will arrive as early as 3 a.m. and begin lining up behind the special they want. ...more

November 22, 2007