Now that it’s at about 8,500, I wonder how low it can possibly go before we hit bottom.

A lot of people are discounting the current financial crisis, saying that the average American isn’t seeing the problem “in their own wallet.”

My generation, the 18-30-somethings out there now, have been suffering through the last eight years more than we know, and I realized that as soon as I graduated from college.

The highest percentage of Americans ever is currently attending college, but financial aid just hasn’t been there for many.

And I do not count federal loans as financial aid. Those are exactly what they claim to be: loans, from the government, that you have to pay back, with interest.

So we’re all going to school, absorbing the loan debt because accountants and financial professionals are saying “it’s good debt.”

My primary degree is in journalism. My job offers upon graduation ranged from $25,000 to $35,000, and now I freelance my ass off to try to make a living as I put myself through grad school (more loans and “good debt”) so that I can have a graduate degree and one day teach in my field.

I am making better than that $35,000 a year we just talked about between freelancing and a little bit from Blast, but let me give you the run down that the average recent college grad living in Massachusetts has to deal with:

Monthly expenses:

Rent: $1,000
Electric and gas (landlady won’t pay): $100 
Cell phone: $120 ($99/month unlimited? yeah, right, Verizon)
Cable and internet: $120 ($69/month?!? yeah, right, Comcast)
Federal student loans: $140
MEFA/ACS student loans: $140 and parents pay $500/month for now (thank you mom and dad) 
Credit cards (personal): $300
Credit cards (Blast/business): $150
Auto insurance: $60
Renter’s insurance: $20
Groceries: $200
Health insurance: $200 (part-timers pay more!)

Monthly: $2,550
Yearly: $30,600 

Now, let’s add gas to the equation. Thankfully, the Boston Globe does pay my mileage when I’m on assignments, so let’s call that half.

Gas: $300/month – $150 = $150 * 12 = $1,800/year

So before I go out, have a beer, see a movie, buy cat food for my little monsters or do really anything else, about $30,000 is already spent.

For a lot of people, forget working at a non-profit or pursuing your art or taking a year off to volunteer or do what you “want” to do. 

Now, I’m not starving or out on the street, but that’s $30k gone just to live! My my parents weren’t there to pay that $6,000/year, I don’t know what I’d do. My point is, I graduated from college with a mortgage! But I can’t see how someone can classify that as “good debt” because I can’t sell the “house!” And if everyone is going to go to college by default this generation, that piece of paper that says “Bachelor” on it is going to be as worthless as my high school diploma.

So, like Wall Street, my investments are over-inflated and decreasing in value.

But my debts aren’t. 

Bailout please?

A condo in Dorchester costs LESS than a parking space in the Back Bay. Something to think about.

Reuters reports the 28 year-old Hackney, East London resident hid a $12,000 engagement ring inside a helium balloon hoping — for some reason — that she would pop the balloon as he proposed.

But leaving the store, the wind picked up, and the balloon, the ring, and Leanne’s affections (for now) were blown away.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Hajji told The Sun newspaper. “I felt like such a plonker. It cost a fortune and I knew my girlfriend would kill me.”

Hajji chased the balloon for two hours before giving up. After telling Leanne the story, she got pissed and demanded a new ring.

Trend #1: Hey! You’re A Rock Star!

Taking their roots from karaoke, and inspired by television hits such as American Idol and Disney’s High School Musical, the toys representative of this trend are perfect for novice musicians, wannabe performers and those who dream of being the next big rock star. The Little Superstar(TM) Sing-Along Stage(TM) from Fisher-Price(R) encourages babies to create tunes by pressing the drum, xylophone, trumpet or guitar buttons, and features a rattle microphone that activates lively songs, lights and music. Designed with beginning guitarists in mind, I Can Play Guitar(TM) from Fisher-Price(R) plugs directly into a TV and turns learning how to play a guitar into a fun videogame-like experience. The Power Tour(TM) Electric Guitar from Tiger Electronics(TM) is an authentic-sounding instrument featuring touch sensors instead of strings that show tweens the basics of playing guitar. Kids can pretend to live the rock star life with the Hannah Montana Concert Tour Bus from Play Along(R), which features eight play areas and plays two of Hannah’s signature songs. For budding artists, the 36″ Player Series Acoustic Guitar from First Act(TM) is a white, parlor-size, acoustic guitar that provides full, rich sound and easy playing for musicians of any experience level. Kids can jam like their favorite rock stars with the highly anticipated Guitar Hero(TM) III: Legends of Rock Game and Guitar Controller from Activision(R). This videogame challenges players to perform the guitar track of fast-paced songs by renowned artists including Guns N’ Roses, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Beastie Boys, Muse, Pearl Jam, Kiss and more.

Trend #2: Pink Play

Tweens have spoken loud and clear in response to the question, “What’s your favorite color?” So, with young fashionistas in mind, Toys”R”Us worked with manufacturers to create an exclusive line of toys and games that shout “Pink Rules!” The following “Only at Toys”R”Us” items are sure to win the hearts of young girls: The Think Pink Game Collection created for Toys”R”Us by Hasbro(R) Games features a trio of favorite board games redesigned with pink pizzazz, including Monopoly(R): Boutique Edition, Jenga(R) GirlTalk(TM) Edition and Twister(R) Pink Edition. Not to be outdone by their older siblings, toddlers can enjoy pink play with a set of classic Fisher-Price(R) toys outfitted in pink including the Chatter Telephone, Corn Popper, Medical Kit, Lil’ Snoopy, Little People(R): Lil’ Movers School Bus and Little People(R): Lil’ Movers Airplane. Children who want to learn in colorful style can use the Pink Touch Tablet Notebook Computer(TM) from Vtech(R). This kid- sized learning toy looks like a real notebook computer and comes with a sleek, detachable touch-sensitive screen and educational games that track performance while adjusting skill levels to meet a child’s learning needs. Aspiring divas will have their friends pink with envy with Glitz & Glam from Totally Me! The dazzling make-up case comes complete with mirrors and features make-up in shades of pink and purple for eyes, lips and face. For cruising around town under pink power, the trendy Daisy Pocket Mod from Razor(R) features pink and pearl details, 12″ tires, storage under the seat and over 10 miles of smooth cruising capability at speeds up to 15 mph on a single charge.

Trend #3: Get Up! Get Active!

The introduction of the Wii(TM) from Nintendo last holiday season helped show both young and old alike that getting physical can be fun, and this innovative gaming system is expected to be one of the must-have gifts again this year. With its intuitive controls that challenge players to compete in games like tennis, baseball, bowling, boxing and more through physical motion, Wii started a revolution that has inspired several new toys designed to get kids active by making movement fun. Toddlers can get going with The Inchworm(R) from Radio Flyer, a timeless toy that lets children use a bounce- and-go motion to move themselves along. The SMART CYCLE(TM) Physical Learning Arcade System from Fisher-Price(R) combines an educational videogame system with a stationary bike, reinforcing exercise as kids pedal to control learning games on a TV screen. Nothing gets kids active like playing outside, and the Pine Ridge II Swing Set from Big Backyard offers many ways to turn a backyard into a playground, including a wave slide, sandbox, rock-climbing wall with cargo rope ladder, a monkey ladder, a two-passenger glider and two belt swings. And, kids who want to dance along with the music from their favorite TV special can get their groove on with the Disney’s High School Musical “Got the Moves” Dance Mat from Zizzle(R).

Trend #4: Internet Connectivity

Every year, the Internet is further incorporated into everyday tasks and is continually changing the way kids learn and are entertained. Parents often wonder whether or not their children are ready for exposure to the Internet, and many of this year’s new toys can help by offering kids safe online access. The Easy Link(TM) Internet Launch Pad from Fisher-Price(R) provides parents with a secure way to let curious tots surf the net. Parents simply connect the launch pad to a computer using the included USB cord, allowing young tikes to visit the game sections of preschool-appropriate websites when they plug their favorite character figures into the system. Kids can also step into the role of the Red Ranger with the Power Rangers Operation Overdrive(TM) Mega Mission Helmet from Bandai(R). Parents connect the helmet to a computer using the included USB cord and download Power Rangers missions for new adventures. Barbie Girls from Mattel(R) is a sleek and stylish device that serves as an MP3 player and fashion statement while allowing girls to unlock new pets, games, hangout spots and more when connected to http://www.barbiegirls.com/. Shining Stars from Russ Berrie & Co. brings plush pets into the digital age. Kids simply pick from one of 24 adorable characters and log onto the Shining Stars website (http://www.shiningstars.com/) to name an actual star and receive access to e-cards, online games and other activities. The U.B. Funkeys(TM) Starter Kit from Radica(R) unlocks a universe of fun and friends where players can explore virtual worlds when connected to the Internet through the U.B. hub.

Trend #5: Transforming and Robotic Toys

This summer’s biggest movie blockbuster, TRANSFORMERS(TM) helped everyone rediscover a love of robotics. From action figures that change forms to remote controlled toys, robots are popping up everywhere. Stepping straight out of the movie screen, TRANSFORMERS(TM) Ultimate BUMBLEBEE(TM) from Hasbro(R) comes to life with animatronic action, working headlights, battle sounds and music, including Devo’s “Whip It.” The V-Bot(TM) from Learning Curve(R) is a remote control car that automatically changes to a dancing robot with the push of a button. The latest in robotic pets for kids, MIO PUP from Tiger Electronics(TM)

is an adorable pal that responds to children with lights, sounds and music. Its expressive and colorful “emoto-tronic” eyes feature 100 different symbols to communicate its feelings and moods. Older robot fans will love Roboquad(TM) from WowWee(TM) Robotics, an animated robot with advanced sensory awareness, 72 pre-programmed functions, four modes (direct control, autonomous, guard and sleep), and multi-colored flashing lights and techno sound effects. Robots can also take to the skies with the XPV(TM) R-A-D Robotic Air Defense(R) from JAKKS Pacific(R). This unique robot drives, talks and flies over 300 feet at up to 30 MPH with a twin turbo engine design.

In compiling a list of the best cars for city dwellers, Cars.com’s automotive experts considered size, performance, ride quality and cabin comfort. They also looked at helpful features like parking sensors and backup cameras, and analyzed turning circles and stop-and-go gas mileage.

“There is a reason why insurance premiums are higher for city dwellers,” said Cars.com managing editor Patrick Olsen. “Parking on city streets, driving on less-than-perfect roads and navigating through traffic can be a risky proposition. However, with the right car, city driving can be a little more enjoyable.”

From a range of body styles, here are the cars that impressed the Cars.com experts most:

The Ultimate Urban Car

2007 Mini Cooper – It didn’t take long to decide on the ultimate urban car: At just more than 12 feet long, the Mini Cooper was the shortest car in contention. Add in a reasonably tight turning circle, and the Cooper can take parking spaces everyone else passes up. For good measure, Mini also offers parking sensors for the rear bumper. The Cooper is the ultimate car for what it gives, as well as for what it doesn’t give up. Despite its size, the cabin can seat four adults and is outfitted with six airbags, and the hatch design and folding backseat provide a surprisingly roomy cargo space. Front-wheel drive and traction control mean winter driving in this stylish car is no problem. The pricier S model gives excellent power and braking on city streets, and you can even get a convertible version.

— Length: 145.6 inches
— Turning circle: 35.1 feet
— Seats: 4
— City MPG*: 26 – 27 (premium gas)

Other Worthy Contenders

2008 BMW 328i wagon – The latest generation of BMW’s venerable 3 Series is arguably its best yet. Once radical in the styling department, its sharp edges have become the norm in today’s modern urban design. A much faster twin-turbo engine is available in the 335i, but the wagon — which packs 35 percent more cargo room than the sedan without incurring any extra length — comes only in the 328i. Plus, it has all those BMW attributes at a price that’s easier to digest. The steering may be a bit heavy for some, but that’s the tradeoff for owning an “ultimate driving machine” in the city.

— Length: 178.2 inches
— Turning circle: 36.0 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG: 17 – 18 (premium gas)

2008 Ford Escape Hybrid – City dwellers know what a nightmare traffic can be. Ford’s Escape Hybrid brings a little relief to city air quality thanks to its low CO2 emissions — and it offers a break for your wallet, too. According to the EPA, the Escape Hybrid is the most efficient SUV on the market. Besides the fact that the gas engine automatically turns off when stopped — so you don’t have to waste precious fuel in rush hour — the hybrid can also cruise in near-silence on electric power at slow speeds. Now there’s a surefire way to impress your friends.

— Length: 174.7 inches
— Turning circle: 36.7 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG: 29 – 34

2007 Honda Civic Hybrid – Even though Honda’s futuristically styled Civic Hybrid looks much like the mainstream Civic, it has lower emissions and uses a lot less fuel. A small turning circle means enhanced maneuverability in tight spots, and the optional navigation system has more than 7 million points of interest, so you’ll be sure to find that new tapas restaurant or blues lounge you’re looking for. Stellar crash-test scores for front, side and rear impacts are also reassuring and set the Civic apart from most of its competitors. An impeccably finished cabin adds to the car’s appeal.

— Length: 176.7 inches
— Turning circle: 34.8 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG*: 40

2008 Honda CR-V – What the SUV lacks in turning radius and seating flexibility — folding the second row is a real drag — it makes up for in features, with sturdy plastic bumpers and a cargo-area storage shelf on which you can stack 20 pounds of groceries. Gas mileage is respectable for an SUV, and the ride is comfortable enough for bumpy streets. The large rear window makes for good visibility, and an optional backup camera means you can ace that back-alley parking.

— Length: 178.0 inches
— Turning circle: 37.8 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG: 19 – 20

2008 Honda Fit – Pay a slight premium for the Honda nameplate, and you get a friendly-looking hatchback that’s a cut above most economy cars. The Fit has just enough zip for stop-and-go duties, and gas mileage is predictably thrifty given that the car weighs just three-fourths of a Toyota Camry. It’s small enough to squeeze between garbage trucks and buses, and its tall windows and large mirrors take the guesswork out of tight maneuvers. The front and rear seats can fold flat for extra cargo space.

— Length: 157.4 inches
— Turning circle: 34.3 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG: 27 – 28

2008 Land Rover LR2 – If you want an SUV to use in the city, you’ll be best off with a small one. Most premium and luxury SUVs are larger, but there are a few that qualify as compact. The best choice for tackling city life is the handsome Land Rover LR2. For ease in maneuvering and parking, it’s shorter from bumper to bumper than the Acura RDX and BMW X3, and it has a tighter turning circle. Even so, its headroom and front-seat legroom are better than either competitor. Standard parking sensors on the rear bumper and optional approach and puddle lights are also great to have.

— Length: 177.1 inches
— Turning circle: 37.1 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG: 16 (premium gas)

2008 Mazda5 – There aren’t many minivans that scream “city-friendly,” but the Mazda5 takes the family-hauler concept and shrinks it to a manageable size that still has room for six. The 2008 model has a fresh look but retains its distinct Japanese edginess. Even though it’s 20 inches shorter than a Honda Odyssey, the Mazda5 is still substantial, coming in at almost exactly the same length as a Toyota RAV4. Steering is sharp for tight parking maneuvers, and the ride is relatively smooth.

— Length: 181.5 inches
— Turning circle: 34.8 feet
— Seats: 6
— City MPG: 19

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Mazda MX-5 Miata isn’t the shortest car on our list, but it has the smallest turning circle — 4 feet tighter than the Mini’s. This makes it most adept at hanging U-turns, and its nose swings sharply into parallel parking spaces, which are easy to navigate when the top is down. It slips through congestion where most cars are gridlocked. Unfortunately, when the weather turns bad, so does the Miata’s viability as a city car: Top-up visibility and rear-wheel drive aren’t great, and potholes start to look (and feel) mighty big.

— Length: 157.3 inches
— Turning circle: 30.8 feet
— Seats: 2
— City MPG: 20 – 22 (premium gas)

2008 Scion xB – If you’re looking for an affordable car that sets you apart from the crowd, Scion’s xB is an easy way to go. The xB delivers on the promise of its boxy shape by offering loads of cargo room in a compact package — up to 69.9 cubic feet — which makes it ideal for carting your belongings around. Engaging steering response and the tight turning radius are a boon for narrow streets, too.

— Length: 167.3 inches
— Turning circle: 34.8 feet
— Seats: 5
— City MPG: 22

Cars.com is the most comprehensive destination for those looking to buy or sell a new or used car. The site lists more than 2 million vehicles from 13,000 dealer customers, classified advertisers and private parties to offer the more than 8 million unique visitors who log on to the site each month the best selection of new and used cars online, as well as the content, tools and advice to support their shopping experience. Cars.com combines powerful inventory search tools and new-car configuration with pricing information, photo galleries, buying guides, side-by-side comparison tools, original editorial content and reviews to help millions of car shoppers connect with sellers each month.

Modulus, according to a press release, is a leading MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding (AVC) company that specializes in putting this video over the Internet and broadcast/television systems.

Both sides seem pleased.

“As consumers demand more high definition video and interactive services, the need for advanced compression technology is increasingly important,” said Dan Moloney, President, Home and Networks Mobility business, Motorola, Inc, Modulus Video has a powerful architecture and product development framework that is well suited for continued technological advancement.”

“Through this acquisition, Modulus Video will become part of a world-class organization in a highly strategic market segment. Our team will benefit from Motorola’s rich heritage and leadership of video delivery expertise,” said Bob Wilson, Chairman and CEO of Modulus Video. “Modulus Video will bring to Motorola a software-centric platform that ensures flexibility, reduced cost and fast development time.”

Modulus will become a wholly-owned subsidiary, and Motorola has said it will allow them to continue their Sunnyvale, Calif., operations, which will save jobs in the area.

Name of product: Electronic Musical Keyboards

Units: About 12,000

Manufacturer: Casio Computer Co. Ltd., of Tokyo, Japan

Hazard: The recalled keyboards can overheat when in use, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Users are advised to stop playing the faulty keyboards immediately, remove the batteries and contact Casio (866) 800-4302 for a free repair.

“We are sorry and embarrassed. But most of all, we are deeply sorry,” said David Neeleman JetBlue’s founder and CEO.

The low-cost air carrier acknowledged many canceled flights, long delays and lost baggage its customers faced in what Neeleman called “the worst operational week in JetBlue’s seven year history.”

Words cannot express how truly sorry we are for the anxiety, frustration and inconvenience that we caused. This is especially saddening because JetBlue was founded on the promise of bringing humanity back to air travel and making the experience of flying happier and easier for everyone who chooses to fly with us. We know we failed to deliver on this promise last week.

Promising that its customers deserved better, JetBlue published its Customer Bill of Rights. Neeleman issued a video message to customers earlier.