Objects in Mirror: May 14, 2008 Archive

Public Insight Journalism asks: How do gas prices factor in finances?

Posted at 8:27 AM on May 14, 2008 by Julia Schrenkler

How do gas prices really factor in your financial decisions? Share your answers to these and other questions with MPR News:

*What if any changes have you made to your driving habits or travel plans because of rising gas prices?

*How have gas prices altered your household/personal spending decisions?

*How much have gas prices affected your workplace's spending and budgeting?

Join our Public Insight Network (Unsure about it? Get the FAQs) and inform our coverage.

Discuss the mortgage meltdown

Posted at 1:35 PM on May 14, 2008 by Julia Schrenkler

The mortgage market mess is worth discussing. Where do we begin?

MPR and the Citizen's League team up for a live event discussion in Policy and a Pint: Mortgage Meltdown, Thursday May 15, 2008. (Note: You must register to attend)

For those that haven't attended a Policy and a Pint event, I can only describe it as an open, direct, and engaging community discussion in a relaxed setting. The Current's Steve Seel opens and moderates the conversation, and also gives attendees a chance to pose questions. Guests Richard Todd and Kara McGuire share answers and advice during the event, but we can start - and continue - the discussion online. From the event description:

Everyone knows the mortgage market is in crisis - and that it's dragging down the rest of the economy. But what caused it? How can we get out of it? And how can homeowners - and potential buyers - in Minnesota protect themselves?

Faced with those questions, what advice would you give to others on buying, selling, or financing a home? What paths can we take to correct the market? Join the online discussion and/or attend the event.