A Blogadore

It’s that time of the year again, when most of us are dreading filing our taxes.  It used to be harder and more time consuming, but today things have changed and if you can, take advantage of the new software that is available to make this dreaded job easier.  You have several options when filing your taxes.  If you prefer to do this job yourself, you should consider using Turbo Tax.  This tax filing software has many advantages.

The first advantage to using Turbo Tax is that it is a reputable company that does update their software with the current tax codes.  Turbo Tax is very comprehensive and will walk you through the process.  When you are finished, you have the option to print the forms to mail yourself, or for a nominal fee, you can have your taxes e-filed.  This software is compatible with accounting software, such as Quickbooks, so it is possible to transfer your information from your accounting software to Turbo Tax.  This makes things extremely helpful and saves time.  Another good thing about Turbo Tax is that is stores your information from previous years in your online account.  This is great, because if something happens to your paperwork, you have a backup.  Lastly, Turbo Tax offers audit assistance and even offers you the option of letting a tax professional look over what you have done, of course, you must pay for these added extras. 

In a state where health care is in a state of emergency, as over 20% of the population is uninsured, New Mexico’s Governor Richardson, is proposing that all residents of New Mexico be covered by health insurance regardless of their abiltiy to pay.  If the Governor’s plan is accepted, all citizens would be required to have health insurance. This raises many questions including the following:

1) How would mandatory insurance be enforced?
2) How does this affect employers who currently do not offer insurance for their employees?
3) Could this plan cause health insurance premiums to rise significantly for those that are already insured?
4) How would more governmental regulations affect physicians who are currently practicing in the state?

Health insurance is certainly a need that many people just cannot afford these days.  Many go without needed medical care and necessary medications so that they can provide meals for their families. With this being said, is government intervention the answer to assisting people get the medical care that they require?

Now days, more and more consumers are searching online for the products and services they need.  If you are new to shopping online, you will want to use caution with the companies that you choose to do business with.  Experts give us recommendations when using your personal and financial information for an online transaction. 

First and foremost, word of mouth, is a powerful tool.  If your friends or family members have had bad experiences with online companies, you might want to research the company more carefully, or reconsider your options altogether. Secondly, more and more online business are willing to accept third party payments in which they never actually see your bank account or credit card account information.  This is a very wise thing to do.  There are several reputable third party payment companies, such as Paypal and 2Checkout.  Just by doing this, you are almost eliminating fradulent charges to your account.  Thirdly, make sure you READ everything!  Know what you are getting into before submitting your order. Most companies doing business online have specific policies on returns and or refunds. And lastly, if you have to pay via your credit card and submit personal information, do so only on a secure site.  Make absolutely sure that the url on the page that asks for this type of information begins with “https:”, a page that begins with “http:” is not secure, and never apply for anything via email. 

These are just a few tips to ensure a safe and confidential online purchase.  Above all use your common sense. If something seems odd or strange, do more investigating before buying online.

FFA is a school extra-curricular activity. FFA stands for Future Farmers of America, but it is not dealing with farming, many city kids are in it also. It has a wide variety of agricultural activities including judging, showing, and also metal work. FFA provides students with leadership opportunities and along comes respect, responsibility, and teamwork. I believe FFA is a great organization and students all across the states should try it, I think it would be a good experience. 

Have you ever been to the beautiful state of New Mexico?  If not, you will enjoy the weather and friendly people.  There are many fun things to do that the entire family will enjoy.  If you have a couple of days, you may want to visit the Mesilla Valley.  In 1982, the Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally began, and continues to be an event in which people from all over the country come to see. The Balloon Rally offers a variety of events including regular balloon flights, special night glow events, and games for both the participants and spectators of the rally.  The event is held yearly in January, a bit chilly, but the conditions are perfect for ballooning!