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Buddy's Blog
I'm Pastor Buddy Winn and I help to produce the Financial University sessions each week, along with our website. Also, you can follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
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Monday, December 29, 2008 - 1:06 p.m.
“End of Year Top Ten Lists”
As we wind up 2008, here is a collection of year ending Top Ten lists related to personal finance. Enjoy!
Top Ten Careers for 2009: http://is.gd/e2f2
Top Ten Personal Finance Books: http://is.gd/e2jY
Top Ten Budget Tips: http://is.gd/e2mR
Top Ten Roth IRA Questions: http://is.gd/e2nr
Top Ten Money Stories: http://is.gd/e2nP
Top Ten Tips for College Students: http://is.gd/e2pC
Look for an updated version of the Financial University website shortly after the New Year.
Also, plan to attend Relationship University at Living Word, starting January 7th at 7 pm. Whether you're single, dating, engaged, or married, we're all in relationships. We'll present practical ways to make the most of them. See you then!
Have a blessed New Year,
BW
Friday, December 19, 2008 - 3:44 p.m.
“Time to Buy?, Best Place to Live, and Last Minute Gifts”
Mortgage rates fell to the lowest rates in a generation yesterday. Is it time to buy or perhaps refinance? Learn what you can afford here: http://is.gd/cAal. (P.S. Don't buy things you can't afford!)
Did you know that in August 2008, CNNMoney ranked Plymouth, MN as the best place to live in the US? http://is.gd/cAcH
Only five shopping days until Christmas - need last minute ideas?
http://is.gd/cAhX
Travel safe and have a blessed weekend!
BW
Monday, December 15, 2008 - 2:20 p.m.
“Thrifty Christmas, Angel Food, and Christmas Radio”
Thrifty Fun is a tremendous resource for stretching your Christmas dollar: http://is.gd/bPq1
You can place your order now for Angel Food. Every month Angel Food provides boxes of high quality, cost effective food items at over half off grocery store prices. Each unit contains enough food to assist in feeding a family of four for about one week, or a single senior for almost a month: http://is.gd/bPuR
Here's a cool Christmas music option - Pandora, a streaming (and free) online music service, lets you choose a song, and then plays similar songs. You'll have to create an account with them at Pandora.com, but the time is worth it and the price is right: http://is.gd/bdfj
Have a great week as you prepare to celebrate Christmas!
BW
Tuesday, December 9, 2008 - 4:19 p.m.
“Alternate Christmas Currency, Diversification, and Probate Info”
No money for gifts? No problem: http://is.gd/aCb6
One opinion about whether diversification works: http://is.gd/aCje
Q&A from the MN Attorney General's office related to probate, wills, and health care directives: http://is.gd/aClM
Mark your calendar - Financial University graduation is Wednesday at 7 p.m. - see you there!
BW
Thursday, December 4, 2008 - 11:04 p.m.
“Jobs, Downsized Christmas, and Twitter”
If you're looking to earn a few more dollars per paycheck, here are 15 jobs that earn between $60,000 and $69,999 annually, which are also expected to experience growth through 2016: http://is.gd/a48z
Many people have a narrative about their holiday rituals: the worship, the setting, the food, the gifts, the personae, the drama. But this year, the economy is rudely tearing apart those yellowed scripts - how some are adjusting. http://is.gd/aiiN
Lastly, check out updates from Living Word at Twitter.com here: http://www.twitter.com/lwccmpls
Graduation for the charter class of Financial University is next Wednesday, December 10th, so I will look forward to seeing you there!
BW
Sunday, November 30, 2008 - 11:25 a.m.
“Sunday Update”
Has anyone heard of the Advent Conspiracy? We are encouraged to worship fully, spend less, give more, and love all in order to make Christmas a world-changing event again. Read more: http://is.gd/2piH
Traveling by air this Christmas? Here are 7 tips for surviving holiday air travel: http://is.gd/9BOG
Here's some information that suggests you think twice before giving a gift card this Christmas: http://is.gd/9BUh
See you on Wednesday!
BW
Tuesday, November 25, 2008 - 11:07 a.m.
“Giving, Retirement, Thanksgiving”
Happy Tuesday, here are three articles for you. I'll be out of the loop until early next week, so until then, Happy Thanksgiving! Hope to see you back at Financial University at 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 3rd.
We know that giving honors God. Here's more proof that it contributes to your quality of life. http://is.gd/8XS7
Be wise regarding invitations to "retirement seminars." http://is.gd/8XSy
Finally, four money saving tips for Thanksgiving, including a "Thanksgiving Calculator." http://is.gd/8Y5M
Sunday, November 23, 2008 - 2:19 p.m.
I've been out of the loop for a couple days with National Guard training, but here are some clips for you:
From Generation X Finance (helping a unique generation achieve financial independence) - a smattering of financial links. http://is.gd/8AUk
Here's a good one: 6 Ways Eating Out Less Has Made Our Family Better. http://is.gd/8AVw
Yet another look at how little savings add up. http://is.gd/8Hhm
Discussion of money and the "happiness" factor. http://is.gd/8HnT
Wednesday, November 19, 2008 - 9:07 a.m.
“Links”
Gazelle intense about getting your $1,000 emergency fund knocked out? Here are 13 Quick Ways to Make Extra Cash: http://is.gd/87Ii
What if your job or living situation requires a lot of eating out? Here are tips for saving a ton while doing it: http://is.gd/87TI
Part of getting your financial house in order is an awareness of your credit "footprint". I went to annualcreditreport.com, and was actually able to see some of my past credit accounts. I noticed that there were some entries that didn't look familiar, so I have some work to do on that. You'll be offered the chance to see information from all three major credit agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). You can also request a copy over the phone (877-322-8228). http://is.gd/1KRB
Hope to see you tonight!
BW
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 - 12:47 p.m.
“Use Emergency Fund for Christmas Spending?”
Hey there, I'm working to get our Week Ten slides up on the site, but didn't want to miss the chance to pass on this great question and answer from Dave Ramsey's "Dave Says" column related to Christmas spending...
Dear Dave,
We recently began your plan, and we've got our starter emergency fund of $1,000 in place. Is it okay to spend this on Christmas gifts if we know for sure we can replace it in January?
Mike
Dear Mike,
Absolutely not! That's the equivalent of financial suicide. The moment you do that, Murphy will move in your spare room and bring along his brothers, Broke, Desperate and Stupid.
Everyone wants to have a nice Christmas. And if $1,000 was all the money you had in the world, I'd be okay with you spending a little bit. But the key word in "emergency fund" is EMERGENCY. Christmas didn't sneak up on you, man. It happens on December 25 every year.
Next year, put a line in your budget for Christmas gifts. You can save a little bit each month, and by the time December rolls around you'll have a nice chunk of change for gifts and other Christmas expenses.
For now, go out and find a part-time job. If you deliver pizzas or throw boxes over at UPS for a few weeks, you can still make enough to cover Christmas gifts for your family!
- Dave
Good stuff, huh? I'll have the slides up by 4 pm today for you to print and prepare before tomorrow's session.
BW
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 - 7:59 a.m.
“Debt Snowball”
I get many emails regarding the debt snowball and how it works. One of the common questions along with that is whether to attack the smallest debt, or the debt with the highest interest rate. It's a matter of personal choice, but Dave Ramsey's recommendation is the smallest debt. This is because of the psychological momentum that builds when you achieve a victory by paying off a debt and moving to the next one. If you went after the highest interest rate, it could take you many months or even a couple years to pay off your first debt while the others still remain.
Here are some links on the subject:
http://is.gd/7Y78
http://is.gd/7Y7M
http://is.gd/7Y97
Tomorrow night we'll conduct a comprehensive review of weeks one through nine, and talk about insurance. See you then!
BW
Monday, November 17, 2008 - 9:24 a.m.
“Giving”
There are many studies and dozens of books that show the connection between giving and the effect it has on your physical and emotional health. I mean, can you watch shows like, "Extreme Home Makeover," or "Oprah's Big Give," and not be affected by the way the recipients react when they get a massive gift in the face of adversity?
It seems that Fox TV has picked up on this and offers a new show this fall called "Secret Millionaire." The Wall Street Journal describes it this way: "In the show, a rich guy goes undercover in a poor neighborhood in search of virtuous but needy souls. At the end of the show, the millionaire reveals his identity and gives away piles of cash to the winning locals."
Watch the preview video here:
http://is.gd/7Qid
Here's what occurred to me as I watched the preview video: wouldn't it be incredible for the body of Christ to be able to do this on a regular basis??
Sunday, November 16, 2008 - 1:29 p.m.
“Ah, the Sabbath”
Here are a few links for your browsing convenience on this fine Sunday afternoon (no claim on accuracy as all links are outside the LWCC site):
• What does your Christmas spending plan look like? http://is.gd/7LnZ
• Craigslist success stories (I'm selling my cable modem and wireless router out on Craigslist myself right now...) http://is.gd/7LoR
• Chopping down the monthly budget. http://is.gd/7Lps
• Is Now The Right Time To Invest? (Remember the Baby Steps!) http://is.gd/7LpG
• We get this question a lot through the askmark@lwcc.org email account: Is It A Good Idea To Get A 401k Loan To Pay Off Debt? http://is.gd/7Lqf
Don't forget that this Wednesday November 19th, we'll recap weeks one through nine and start to pull it all together. We'll take a break next week for a Family Thanksgiving service, and pick back up on Dec 3rd. Enjoy your Sunday!
BW
Thursday, November 13, 2008 - 9:04 a.m.
“Updated Notes”
The Week Nine slides we posted Tuesday afternoon on the downloads page will be updated shortly to reflect what Mark covered last night, so you can go out and get those updated slides at your convenience.
Also, you might recall that we give away a date night/family night/fun night package each week to someone who has completed our Financial University Survey. Each package includes gift certificates for $10 at Potbelly Sandwich Shop, $20 at the AMC movie theatre, and $5 at Caribou Coffee. Here's the thing - only 19 people submitted surveys last week, so if you haven't completed it yet, you can go here: http://is.gd/5bzP. Must be present at the service to win.
Lastly, updated poll information will be posted later today.
BW
Tuesday, November 11, 2008 - 2:54 p.m.
“Financial University on CD/DVD”
I've received many inquiries regarding the availability of Financial University sessions on CD or DVD.
You can purchase copies of past services in the Living Word Bookstore, with hours and more info here: http://is.gd/73Ik
You can also order a DVD, CD, or MP3 of past services at the LWCC online store: http://is.gd/73LE. Enter "Financial University," and then click search.
Don't forget that each service is available online for one week using our on-demand webcast, which you can access here: http://is.gd/5bBf. Find the Wednesday PM Service link in the lower-right corner.
BW
Tuesday, November 11, 2008 - 11:46 a.m.
“I’m 62 and my retirement portfolio tanked. Now what?”
Syndicated personal finance columnist Liz Weston offers practical advice for those who may have seen their retirement plans take a hit, with encouragement that all is not lost.
"If you sell everything now, you’re locking in your losses and precluding any chance of gaining from a rebound."
Read the full article here: http://is.gd/72wu
Hope to see you tomorrow night...
BW
P.S. Happy Veteran's Day! It has been my privilege to serve for over 20 years alongside those who willingly sacrifice to defend the freedoms all Americans enjoy.
Monday, November 10, 2008 - 11:58 a.m.
10 Tips, Glo$$ary, and What Grandma Knew
Here are 10 Tips for keeping money in your wallet, by way of practical automotive, family, and consumer advice. http://is.gd/6USC
Want to learn more about 401k's, mutual funds, and real estate investing? Visit Morningstar's Personal Finance resource page (links are on the left side): http://is.gd/6URA
It might sound a little odd, but there is value in growing, harvesting and preserving your own food. It is a vintage way to save money, appreciate hard work, and perhaps create a great tradition as you involve your family in the process. Food storage like Grandma's: http://is.gd/6V5D
It's been said that winning with your finances is 20% knowledge and 80% behavior. So arm yourself with information and then take action!
BW
Thursday, November 6, 2008 - 9:23 a.m.
Thursday Morning Musings
Wow, last night was great. It's fun to have a fast-paced service with a lot of variety, and giving stuff away is a blast too. Here are links to the sites Mark mentioned last night:
http://www.finra.org
http://www.sec.gov
http://www.finra.org
http://www.ftc.gov
http://www.commerce.state.mn.us
Also, if you haven't taken the Financial University survey, here's a link: http://is.gd/5bzP. Follow the instructions at the end of the survey to be entered into the weekly drawing.
Next week we take a closer look at the specifics of investing and describe the differences between mutual funds, 401k, stocks and bonds. Have a great week and check back for additional resources I'll be posting through next Wednesday
BW
Monday, November 3, 2008 - 2:18 p.m.
Free CD from Dave Ramsey (you pay shipping).
Here's a chance to get a free (expect for about $4 for shipping) CD from Dave Ramsey that discusses how debt requires you to completely change the way you look at things in order to win with in your personal finances, and that's a hard thing to do. It's like asking someone to quit smoking - it mandates that you change behaviors and mindsets that you've had for years, and at the same time, you can definitely see the benefit and advantages of those changes.
Expose you to the concept of living the debt-free life, teaches you the *basics* about how to get going on the debt-free journey, and helps you see how being debt free will change you and your family's lives.
Order the CD here:http://is.gd/6ehx
Also, if you haven't taken the Financial University survey (and registered for our Date/Family/Movie night giveaways), you can do that here: http://is.gd/5bzP
Thursday, October 30, 2008 - 8:43 p.m.
Faith Based Job Search
(Ok, small disclaimer - I lifted this from the LWCC Small Groups page - you can check that out at http://smallgroups.lwcc.org). If you are between jobs or are considering a career change, this group is for you. Come and learn what employers are looking for and how to best represent yourself on your resume and in interviews. This group will give you tips on making the best impression on a potential employer and what to avoid and why. Along with the practical information, you will receive reinforcement in prayer and encouragement in what the Word says regarding your situation, as well as time to network with other people.
Leaders: Rick Fox and J.R. Croston
Location: Church
NEW Time: 6-8 p.m., 2nd & 3rd Monday on the month (starting November 10, 2008)
If you have questions, please contact Pastor Daniel Gutierrez at 763-315-7063. We look forward to seeing you at the next session.
BW
Wednesday, October 29, 2008 - 10:35 p.m.
Acres, Shares and People
Wow! Great service tonight as Mark shared about how to determine your FIN (Financial INdependence) number and gave a different perspective about reinventing retirement. It looked a little intimidating to me because it's hard to imagine producing those kinds of numbers in today's economy. It put my mind at ease when he showed those numbers are simply the result of normal growth and inflation. I remember my parents paid just $32,000 for their first house in 1974, and I bought my first small townhouse in 2001 for $117,000 - nearly four times more. If you didn't catch it, view the webcast here: http://is.gd/5bBf, and remember to download the notes here: http://is.gd/5bBx.
Thanks to all those who went out and shared at the testimony booth tonight. Maybe sitting in front of a camera and telling your story isn't your thing - that's fine, but would you send us an email (askmark@lwcc.org) and tell us what's working for you? People need to hear your story because it's encouraging and gives them hope! And also, we want to hear your thoughts about Financial University - don't forget to take our survey (click on this link: http://is.gd/5bzP). For those who participate, we'll throw your name in our drawing for a series of gift certificates for a movie or date night that we'll give away before the end of Financial University in mid-December.
We're having a lot of fun doing the service this week, and hope it has been a practical and relevant resource to you.
BW
Wednesday, October 29, 2008 - 10:21 a.m. Welcome to Buddy's Blog
Hey there! Just wanted to take a minute to thank you for visiting Buddy's Blog, one of many resources available here on the Financial University site. Financial University is here to help to teach people how to become debt free and financially independent in order to become impact players for the kingdom. No matter how you slice it, you cannot pursue your goals, whether personal or spiritual, without financial discipline. When money is tight, sometimes it's all we think about. It stresses us out and causes us to take a very monocular view of our lives. Stress, which can be defined as the perception of threat or loss, is tough on the mind and body. It can give us headaches, nausea, and challenge our ability to concentrate. It puts wrinkles on our face and incites many other unhealthy behaviors we resort to in order to cope. Be encouraged this week, because there is a way out. I remember a story Dave Ramsey told about a billionaire he met with who was going to tell Dave about a book he had been reading recently. Naturally, Dave, a successful person with intentions of increasing his organization's influence, was eagerly anticipating the title of the book. The billionaire friend said it was a simple book, one that he could even read to his grand kids. The title of the book? The Tortoise and the Hare (read it here: http://is.gd/57zR). Slow and steady wins the day. Couple your common sense approach to personal finance with a keen and continued awareness of God's presence, promises, and provision, and you're going to win in the end. When you win, your family wins, and the Kingdom wins! Hope to see you tonight.
BW
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