This week was an interesting one for hundreds of thousands of people nationwide, as Hurricane Ike left a path of destruction from the gulf coast of Texas, up through Pennsylvania. Here in Ohio we had sustained winds in the 50-60 mph range for several hours, which caused wind damage to trees, houses, and other property, and knocked out power to over 1 million people. We were without power for about 24 hours, but power was not fully restored to our area for almost a week. We were without cable or internet for 5 days, but that is a small inconvenience compared to those who lost everything.

The PF Challenge, by Lending Club. Lending Club recently launched “The PF Challenge,” a game application for FaceBook. This month, Lending Club sponsored a tournament with several personal finance bloggers. I’m happy to announce that I won 3rd place out 16 entrants! Madison from My Dollar Plan was the winner, followed by Step3Prophet. You can read more about it here.

I’m on FaceBook. I’ve been on FaceBook for about a month or so now. Feel free to check out my profile and add me as a friend.

This week’s recommended articles:

MyPoints Balance Continues To Climb; What Shall I Redeem Them For? MyPoints is a great way to make a few extra bucks online - using only a few minutes of your spare time every now and then.

Self-Employment, Estimated Tax, and Safe Harbor. This is the first year I’m going to have any substantial self-employment tax. I should be covered by the Safe Harbor rule, but I think I will end up owing a pretty penny. I’d like to meet with a tax professional later this year to determine the best way to handle my self-employment taxes, and try to shelter some of my business earnings in a Solo-401(k), SEP IRA, or similar investment plan.

Are You a Millionaire in the Making? Tips on how to become a millionaire. Becoming a millionaire doesn’t need to be difficult; Take it step by step, and doing it is achievable for most people.

How to sell a used car. Tips include how to clean and prep your car for sale, how and where to list it, and how to negotiate the sale. Great tips if you plan on selling a car yourself!

grateful for my emergency fund. Plonkee’s house was broken into. Thankfully, no one was hurt. But the thieves did ge away with 2 laptops, a camera, and some important paperwork.

Just Because You Clip It Doesn’t Mean You Have To Buy It. Amen! I know people who go out of their way to buy things on sale even if they don’t need it. Why? Because they are “saving money.” I never understood that idea!

How I Prepared To Be A Freelancer Problogger. About 6 months ago, Jim made the leap fro full-time employee/part-time entrepreneur, to full-time entrepreneur. Here is how he did it.

Be Careful When Asking For A Raise. There is more to receiving a raise than just asking for it. You need to be aware of your value, how much you are worth to your company, the company’s current state, and more. Then, be careful how you ask!

Worried About Your Savings Accounts In Problem Banks? There is a lot going on in our economy right now - especially with several financial institutions. Here is what you need to know regarding your money.

Stealing Restaurant Condiments: It’s Time To Settle An Age-Old Debate. And for some weekend levity… One or two packets of ketchup, you’re probably OK. Salt and pepper shakers, a dozen sporks, and 20 packs of every condiment available… not so much!

29 Steps I Took to Leave the Workforce at Age 29. Madison shares how she was able to leave the workforce at an early age, so she could spend time enjoying her passions.

How to Set New Financial Goals. Solid tips for determining your financial goals, and how to make them happen.

Savers Losing Out in the Current Economy. Inflation is eating away at the relative value of your money, so even if you are saving, you may be losing purchasing power.

2008 Election - Don’t Forget to Register for Absentee Ballot. don’t forget to register for the 2008 General Election - especially if you live overseas and are voting by absentee ballot!

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