"Peanut butter ‘voluntary’ recall stirs problems amid salmonella concerns" by: Jessica Shepard

So, apparently, Jif peanut butter is part of a food recall for most of the company’s products due to potential salmonella contamination.

"It might be summer but it is no holiday for investors" by: John Sample

Last week we did something the equities market hasn’t done in 90 years - the Dow Industrial Average completed its eighth down week.    The Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index dropped for seven weeks in a row.    Last week retailers reported a loss in revenue and profits.

PSA: What investors can – and can’t – control

World events can shake up the financial markets – and your investment statements.    During periods of volatility, it’s important to focus on the things you can control.    For starters, don’t overreact to short-term price drops – hasty decisions are rarely the best ones.

"Reel Reviews: ‘Firestarter’ reboot fizzles out quick for a lame viewing" by: Jessica Shepard

I’m totally on tap to watch anything featuring psychic powers or the supernatural in general.       It usually lends itself to a blend of action, science fiction, and occasionally a handful of horror genre elements.

"Sunday closet cleanout doesn’t spark joy" by: Jessica Shepard

Keeping in line with the same manic “cleaning” energy my mom had last weekend for Mother’s Day – I decided to tackle cleaning out my closet Sunday afternoon.

"It’s at times like this that I realize how boring economics can become" by: John Sample

Another week, another loss for the major indexes and average.    This is not much fun and I am certain opening your monthly statement reflecting a drop in your retirement account’s value is not making your mood bright and sunny.    The question is where do we go from here?

PSA: Should you make extra mortgage payments?

At times, you might be tempted to make extra payments on your mortgage.     But is that a good idea?    While it might indeed be satisfying to shorten your payoff period, your mortgage does offer some benefits.     After all, it provides you with a tangible asset – your home.

"Be like Hezekiah and open up the doors to God’s house" by: Caleb Gibson

Who was Hezekiah in the Bible and what can we learn from his life?    After King David and King Solomon, the kingdom of Israel was divided into two parts, Judah and Israel.    These each had its own king. Sadly, none of the kings of Israel were good.

"Reel reviews: ‘The Bad Guys’ reinforces not judging based on stereotypes" by: Jessica Shepard

It’s been a good while since I reviewed an animated movie geared at kids, so, I took a stab at ‘The Bay Guys’ last week.    The trailer didn’t wow me very much, but at the end of the film, I was pleasantly surprised.

"Some call Mother’s Day a happy event; I’m just glad I survived" by: Mike Reddell

Here’s to the special days that honor mothers and fathers.    And to the vast difference in how those holidays are celebrated.    MaLinda’s wish for Mother’s Day was cleaning out a small building once used as a coop then later as a potting soil room.