Tuesday, August 04, 2009

Can You Still Get Cash for Used Cars? You're probably familiar with the CARS program by now - you know the program that offers cash to people who own old, fuel inefficient cars to help them buy new, fuel efficient cars. Even though the program is still very new, it's been so popular that it's almost out of money. The Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act of 2009 that created the program allocated only a billion dollars (I can't believe that I just used the phrase "only a billion dollars") for the whole program. When the money runs out, the program ends. The House of Representatives has decided that they don't want the program to end and passed a bill on Friday to allocate more money so more people can take advantage of the program. The Senate is considering the issue this week. I did a post about the CARS program about a month ago, and I heard from a lot of you. Some people like the program, some people don't. Many of you are like me and have an old clunker that doesn't qualify for the program. Rats. Well, now is the time to contact your Senator and let them know what you think about the program. - Joanne [Gov Gab: Your U.S. Government Blog] 12:32:54 PM     Book Reviews from Master The Art of Reading participants Dark Victory by Brenda Joyce: this is the best of the Masters of Time series. Full of everything that makes a great romance! The Stand by Stephen King: I have readthis book three times before, but really enjoyed this "uncut" edition. The author improved on an already great story. Jester by James Patterson: Not the typical James Patterson book, but still a good one. This is a long one but well worth it. Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult: A book that doesn't disappoint, a story filled with imagination and skepticism. A good, deep read. Handle with Care by Jodi Picoult: A beautiful story with an awful end. I loved it, the drama, the courtroom, the whole story, up until I read the last page. Collected stories of Katherine Anne Porter by Katherine Anne Porter: I love short stories and there are many to love in this collection. "He" is a simple story with an easy dialect that yet pierces the heart. "Holiday" and "The Old Order" are as cozy as a ticking clock with the tradition and folkways of peopleand times long gone. Yet, their stories are about all of humanity and will never grow old. Saving Face by Andy Robin: How to lie, fake, and maneuver your way out of life's most awkward situations. This book made me smile. Shanghai Girls by Lisa See: It was a good book, but I found the ending a bit disappointing. East of Eden by John Steinbeck: Absolutely phenomenal! Petropolis by Anya Ulinich: This is a fast-paced and interesting read. The characters are very well written and the plot keeps you reading. By the Light of My Father's Smile by Alice Walker: Cannot forgive her father for a single hypocritical soul crushing act. 12:20:17 PM

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