It's The Economy Stupid

It's The Economy Stupid                                                         

How to tell if you're middle-class

Find out what typical median-income families earn, and how much they spend on homes and cars. 

Are you close? 

Also:

• 7 middle-class worries
• How to avoid marriage tax
• Find top-paying jobs

Things bosses should never say

Managers looking to burn out workers or crush their initiative might try these phrases.  

'You should work better' 

Also:

• What not to tell your boss
• Move up to management
• Layoff warning signs

How your freezer can save you money

It sounds odd, but putting wax candles on ice will make them burn longer.

Pantyhose, seeds may benefit, too 

Also:

• Frozen-food time limits
• Organic foods to skip
• Beat credit card debt

Why the stock market looks risky

Despite the recent rally, Wall Street could be in for a rude awakening.

Housing plays pivotal role 

Also:

• 'Shadow' over housing
• Lehman angers senator
• Stock market history

Thousands of Hill staffers make six figures

Some top congressional aides earn almost as much as elected officials.

3 times U.S. median  

Also:

• Mailings cost $11 million
• Pricey NASA snacks
• Government salaries

White House unveils new home-loan plan

In an effort to stem foreclosures, the Obama administration will help troubled borrowers get new loans.

Details 

Also:

• Worst state for FHA loans
• Delinquencies on the rise
• Short-sale process

Taxpayers foot bill for empty buildings

The government owns many crumbling properties that have been vacant for years.

The hefty cost to maintain them 

Also:

• Government waste
• JPMorgan's tax refund
• NY market improves