The upside of the downturn

For richer, but mostly for poorer: A recent poll called "What's on Brides' Minds?" found that 53 percent of engaged couples plan to spend less than $25,000 on their weddings. Most are cutting back on the size of the wedding party and the number of guests.

The good news is this means fewer ugly bridesmaid dresses and a decrease in the playing of "The Chicken Dance."

Are you talking to me? The makers of high-tech gadgets are keeping aging baby boomers in mind, notes Herald columnist Linda Bryant Smith. Products introduced at a recent electronics show in Las Vegas included a pill box and a scale that talks.

The basic model of the talking scale will announce what you weigh in a loud voice. For $40 more the deluxe model will whisper it and add the phrase "but you carry it well."

Already thinking about Plan J: Herald columnist Julie Muhlstein asks the timely question: If you lost your job, what would be your Plan B?.

The market for smart alecks being what it is, The Buzz might have to return to his first job: writing gags for Bazooka Joe bubble gum comics.

-- Jon Bauer, Herald staff