Sudoku

Sudoku is one of the most popular puzzle games of all time. The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9. As a logic puzzle, Sudoku is also an excellent brain game.

Dave Says -By Dave Ramsey

Dear Dave, I know you recommend using cash or debit cards instead of credit cards. But can you explain why my husband and I shouldn’t take advantage of credit card points for travel expenses that are required for work but will be reimbursed by the employer?

-Cathy

Ask The Motor Medics®

From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.

Dear Cathy,

So, your employer is so poor they require you to advance them for your travel? You do understand if your employer decides not to pay you one month—for whatever reason—that it’s your credit card and your debt, right? Even if this hasn’t happened yet, you’re exposed to the risk. All for a couple of airline miles that are virtually impossible to use? No, thanks.

I understand this is standard procedure for some companies, but then a big chunk of corporate America has conned its employee base into taking out a loan on their behalf—with a promise of repayment—and the employee taking on all the risk. On top of that, these companies act as if operating this way is no big deal. Well, it is a big deal. And it’s not a good way to run a business or treat your employees.

Cathy, I once counseled a guy who walked into my office with $11,000 on his

American Express card that was “supposed” to be reimbursed. Guess what happened? When he went into work earlier that day, he found a padlock on the door. The company he worked for had filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and he got nothing. At that point, he had $11,000 on his American Express card, and the credit card company didn’t care one bit about his company going broke. They wanted their money.

When you use a credit card, you spend more than when using a debit card or cash. Tons of research has proven this to be true. Using someone else’s money just doesn’t produce the same friction in your brain as paying for something with your own money. You don’t feel the sting of it leaving your personal account. Do you want to know something else? I’ve never met a single millionaire who pointed to credit cards and airline miles as the reasons for their financial success.

But I do know a lot of broke, middleclass people strutting around, bragging that they gamed the system. They’ll tell you they beat a multi-billion-dollar company, one that spends tens of millions of dollars every year on studying consumer behavior in depth, at their own game. No, they really didn’t. I’m telling you all this, Cathy, because I want you and your husband to protect your number-one wealthbuilding tool: your income.

Long story short: If you play with snakes, sooner or later you’ll get bitten.

-Dave

* Dave Ramsey is a seven-time #1 national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

Rick’s Painting

Dear Motor Medics,

I have a 2013

Toyota SUV I am going to drive across country and back and will accumulate about 8000 miles on the odometer by the time I return. This vehicle has 45k miles on it and has not had any problems as of yet and no repairs other than tires and oil changes. Is there anything that I should do before I make the trip to be sure I am as safe as possible?

-Tracy in Hastings, Nebraska

Dear Tracy, Anytime you are going on an extended trip it is good to have your vehicle at its best. Many folks have disappointing trips because they failed to have a simple check done and they experience a preventable breakdown. When a vehicle is brought in for oil changes on a regular basis to your local mechanic they usually inspect for basic things like tire wear and pressure and anything out of the ordinary that could cause a failure like worn belts and hoses but not always. When preparing for a trip make sure to ask your mechanic specifically about a general check-over and tell them how far you will be traveling so they can look for things that may affect your journey. Failed tires, belts, hoses and batteries are the most common items that leave motorists stranded so be sure these are among the list of items checked before you go. Have a safe and fun trip and enjoy the ride Tracy.

-Take care, the Motor Medics

Dear Motor Medics, I am thinking about purchasing a new Jeep Grand Cherokee with the diesel engine but don't know much about it. I have heard you talk about them on your radio show Under The Hood and have not heard any negatives about them from your callers. I plan to drive about 40k miles a year and haul trailers in the 4500 lb. range about 30k of that as I haul a display for my company to trade shows. I want the comfort of a car and good mileage but also the load hauling capability. What are your thoughts?

Dear Mike,

-Mike in Portland, Maine half-ton trucks and smaller SUVs meant to give better mileage when towing smaller loads where a larger more powerful diesel was not needed; these new diesels are also very clean compared to the older larger ones which is good for the environment. You have a couple of key things in your question that are important factors on a vehicle for you. First, you say you will be towing a lot of miles which justifies more power and the added cost of the diesel option. Second for better fuel mileage the use of diesels for towing long-haul should help with your economy. You ultimately have to decide when it comes to a purchase so always research and see what others are saying before you decide.

-Take care, the Motor Medics For entertainment only. Always consult your local shop and follow all safety procedures before repairs. Come visit the Motor Medics® online at Underthehoodshow.com.

Albany Senior Dining

Mon., July 3: Meatballs, noodles, vegetables, peaches.

Tues., July 4: Closed.

Wed., July 5: BBQ chicken, baked potato, mixed vegetables, baked apple slices.

Thurs., July 6: Pork roast, whipped potatoes, gravy, broccoli, cantaloupe.

Fri., July 7: Baked pollock, red potatoes, baked beans, fruit salad.

Pre-registration requested to dine daily. For more info. call 320-845-4070.

Upsala - All Ages

BREAKFAST: Mon.-Fri. 7-10 a.m.: Walk in & dine. Take out available, call ahead.

Mon., July 3: Cheeseburger, potato, vegetable, dessert.

Tues., July 4: Closed.

Wed., July 5: Pulled pork sandwich, potato wedges, vegetable, dessert.

Thurs., July 6: Ham, potato, vegetable, dessert.

Fri., July 7: Creamy chicken casserole, garlic bread, vegetable, dessert. Pick up or eat in by 11:30 a.m. For meals, call a day before: 320-573-4435.

Todays Thought

When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing.