CNN has this report today: Consumers are down, but not out during downturn.

A snippet:

Generation X, defined here as Americans between 28 and 43 years old, are also getting especially pinched. They are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to have young children, recently purchased a home or are in the market for one, and fall mostly within the middle class.

But while consumers across the board are cutting back, they’re not cutting back across the board.

In the meantime, if you’ve got a tip or story link to share that would be of interest to Monroe on a Budget readers, feel free to send me an e-mail. I’ve had several posts that resulted from ideas or referrals from readers.

And if you live in Monroe County, Mich., and are willing to share your story with The Monroe Evening News on how you’re getting by on tight finances, contact city editor Doug Donnelly. While my newspaper does have access to Associated Press and other sources that provide consumer information, tips and statistics, these local leads and contacts help us focus on the topics that matter the most to local readers.