Consumer Education


Feature Writer: L. Marie Dubuque
L. Marie Dubuque, Sears Portrait Studio

Whether you’re looking for the latest tech gadget, trying to find the best prices on groceries, or searching for the highest return on a CD, we’ve got information on steals, deals, bargains and just about everything consumer-related. We’ll help you navigate the physical as well as the virtual shopping world.

You’ll find out about the latest consumer product recalls, learn how to avoid scams, reduce shipping charges and take advantage of big discounts. Knowledge is key to becoming an educated consumer. Here, you’ll pick up pointers on how to avoid debit card fees, get the most out of clearance sales, and where to trade coupons online.

We would love to hear your comments on our articles and blogs.

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feature articles
L. Marie Dubuque

Furnishing a Small Apartment Inexpensively

In: Consumer Education (general)

Inexpensive ways to decorate your new digs without it looking like a college dorm room! more...

How Much Rent Can You Afford?

In: Consumer Education (general)

Before you decide to rent an apartment or house, you first need to determine what you can pay every month, and whether the place is worth it. more...

Renting Your First Apartment

In: Consumer Education (general)

Finding a place to live can be a daunting task. What you need to know before you sign a lease. more...

How to Tell Your Landlord the Rent Will be Late

In: Consumer Education (general)

If you've been laid off, fired, or simply budgeted badly, admitting this to your landlord is what most tenants dread. How to approach a property owner and what to say. more...

How to Spend Less Money at Disney World

In: Consumer Education (general)

Souvenirs, character breakfasts, swirling tea cups, fast water slides and a whole lot of memories. A trip to Disney World can be magical, if you can pay for it. more...

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feature blog
L. Marie Dubuque

Jul 19, 2008

Starbucks Closings; is it that Bad

A coffee shop on every street corner might be a good thing if you are a java addict. But for everyone else, this might be a good thing...and here's why:


Java junkies across the nation are practically spitting up their lattes over the news that Starbucks is closing 600 stores. This morning I read that one very near my house has gotten the axe. Sure, I'll miss the friendly baristas and the special Starbucks-Double-Shot-Over-Ice with soy that they artfully prepare for me every other day. But honestly, now that the aroma of percolating coffee doesn't overtake me every time I turn that street corner, maybe I will save some money! And truthfully, that is probably the reason for all the store closings. These days, $5 lattes aren't really in anyone's budget.

So now that I have to drive a little farther to get my coffee fix, I may not go as often, or at all. And who knows what kind of a store will take the coffee giant's place on all those street corners. Maybe a ma-and-pa operation that needs a good location to sell its wares...Or more likely another big chain selling who knows what.

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