By Rina N. Risper
The New Citizens Press

    LANSING, MI -- Judy Johnson, a customer service representative from Columbus, OH who works for a large insurance company said that she is looking for more ways to make her money stretch further. She said that recently she was going to discard a pair of boots but opted to go to the shoe repair store to get new heels put on them.
     Ms. Johnson along with many Americans are  understanding that with significantly less income in today’s economic climate, people are re-discovering how to cut back and become more savvy with their money.

Coupons A Thing of the Past?

More people are beginning to use and clip coupons which was becoming a thing of the past.

Sunshine Laundro mat located at 402 N. Homer St. provides various incentives for their patrons including offering free soap on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  They also give a senior citizen discount to those aged 65 and older.

Their innovative partnership with Kroger is unique. There is a coupon for $2.00 off on any dry cleaning or laundry order of $10.00 or more on  the the back of Frandor Kroger receipts. 

Get it Fixed, Don’t Throw it Away

Professional Applicance Repairman, Mike Baird, says that he can repair just about any applicance.   Even though he has a fee to drive to your home and inspect the appliance, it’s not applied to the bill if the client chooses to get the appliance fixed.  He services most major brands.  For more information, contact him at 517.282.3354

Baird said that he has been very busy but has time for new customers.  He wants to help people start saving money.

Car Efficiency Helps with Gas  Costs
   
According to Midas, with America’s oil and gas prices remaining at record levels, there are a few simple ways that motorists can improve the efficiency and life of their vehicles.  These include changing oil, oil filters and air filters at regular intervals, making sure tires are properly inflated and aligned, ensuring the gas cap is completely tightened, and sticking to the factory maintenance schedule.
 
According to Lauren Fix, nationally known as “The Car Coach,” routine auto maintenance can go a long way.  “By checking your air filter and tire pressure regularly as well as changing your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, drivers will see a difference in the performance of their automobile,” she said.
 
Consumers can find a free brochure with fuel-saving tips at any Midas shop location nationwide.  Additional maintenance information and efficiency tips can also be found at www.midas.com. 

The Simplier Things

Families are now writing letters to loved ones and families are sitting down with their children to make homemade cards. The average cost of a greeting card is $3.00 and doesn’t include postage.

Try to wrap presents in a reusable container like a photo box or another container that will provide use after the gift has been received.