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New phone? Don't forget to scrub data from old one

New phone? Don't forget to scrub data from old one

By Jennifer Bowen - email

ANN ARBOR, MI (RNN) - Millions of Americans unwrapped new gadgets, particularly smartphones, on Christmas morning. While many will opt to throw that old phone in a drawer, others will go a greener route - recycling their cell phone or donating it.

Before you part ways with that iPhone, Android or Blackberry, it's important to first discontinue your service with your provider, then take a few short steps to protect your personal information.

"Phones today hold everything that a computer can hold, and oftentimes store data in places you may not realize," said Mike Newman with ReCellular, the world's largest recycler and reseller of used cell phones.

Creating presents for parents

Creating presents for parents

If your children haven't gotten mom or dad a present and you don't want to brave the crowds on Christmas Eve, have them create a coupon book! This project is good for kids of all ages, even the older ones.

Here are a few links for some coupon book templates and ideas:

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/xmas/mcoupons.html
http://fatherhood.about.com/b/2010/12/17/make-a-coupon-book-for-christmas.htm

You can also make your own coupon books for mom or dad. Make sure that when someone redeems their coupon to not complain!

Consumer spending is up: Are Americans enjoying a post-recession holiday?

Consumer spending is up: Are Americans enjoying a post-recession holiday?

By csmonitor.com

Spending is up in all retail categories compared with last year, according to MasterCard Advisors' SpendingPulse, which tracks spending on all transactions including cash. Analysts say the increase in personal savings and a decline in consumer debt are giving consumers more confidence than they had in recent years to spend on others and even themselves.

"There is tremendous pent-up demand as consumers are tired of being afraid. So they're seeing a little sunlight and a few more bucks in their pockets," says Robin Lewis, an independent retail consultant based in New York City. "They're willing to go out there and find a little treat for themselves."

SpendingPulse tracked retail sales beginning Oct. 31 and continuing though Dec. 11.

Moriah Children's Home 9th Annual Dinner & Auction

Saturday, October 16, 2010 6:00 pm Scottsboro-Goose Pond Civic Center Cost: $20.00 per person Purchase of 8 tickets will reserve a table Live and Silent Auction Door Prizes Tickets available through October 12th at these locations:
  • Deals on Wheels
  • First Jackson Bank - Laurel Street & Parkway Branches
  • Moriah Children's Home (256-599-7933)
  • Moriah Closet Thrift Store (256-228-3824, Wednesday - Saturday)
  • Anita Boatner (256-259-5065)