Patti S 70 I don't see the economy getting a whole lot better. I think people were just looking to save money at all costs. I personally did not go shopping on those days, because I had to work. My husband is in the construction industry and with the housing market in the tank, we are just as strapped as ever. It will be a frugal Christmas at our house!
Denell B-70 I am not so sure that the recession is close to an end but that people want a change. For the past couple of years everyone has been worried about the next pay check and paying bills. The holidays are a time to be happy and thankful for what you have. There is no guarantee that we will be here tomorrow. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Denell B-70 In response to Patti S We do agree that the economy has not changed tremendously. I did not go shopping either and Christmas will be more budget conscious at my house also! I guess that more people will be concentrating on family and friends being together for the holiday, as it should be. Merry Christmas!
Meghan Williams I do not think that the economy is getting a whole lot better and that black Friday sales were so high because people having been saving their money in preparation for all the big sales on black Friday. I feel that this black Friday had such high sales records because everyone was hoping to get their shopping done on this day because the deals are so good and they were counting on them to get everything they wanted so they didn't have to spend money they don't have on any other day that doesn't have these discount prices. I did go shopping on Black Friday and I got all of my shopping done for my daughter without putting a huge dent in my wallet.
I do not see the recession ending anytime soon, as for the record sales on black friday and cyber monday regardless of the recession people are going to spend money on what they want rather then need. The sales are just an extra way to pull people into spending their money !
Tracey D (67) I did go shopping and was shocked at the number of people, as I am every year. It certainly did not appear that the economy was hurting, however I was layed off this past June and therefore I only bought a few items and mostly went because this is a family tradition with my mom and sisters.
I think people are going to continue to spend even if they don't have the money. I don't understand why a person would rather their house be foreclosed on vs. spending money or using credit cards to get deeper in debt.
I don't see how the housing market will ever recover from all the foreclosures, but time will tell. I think the banks are the ones suffering for offering all those loans to people that could not truly afford such high priced homes. And just because people are giving their homes up to foreclosure, doesn't mean they can't earn money, find a place to live, or spend their money.
Tracey D (67) in response to Meghan, I also agree that the sales on this particular day were possibly higher due to more people wanting to save money. I was amazed to see all the news reports of fighting and over things such as towels. When people get that mob mentality and are fighting over things that truly don't matter in life, then you know people are desperate.
i beleive the only reason we had record breaking sales is because stores were open longer this year then in previous years. More hours means more possible customers, more customers means more money. the recession may eventually begin to clear up but i dont beleive we can use these times as a an excuse. i also believe sales were record breaking because people dont have money so if they can accomplish all there shopping now while everything is cheaper its less shopping they have to do later. people are spending about what they would have to begin with just packed into one weekend instead of a few weeks.
Uh, no. Don't see much good happening in the economy and, what's worse, a lot of the stupid, idiot, and yet useful (if you're a certain type of politician) policies are still in place.
For instance, despite all the talk of the recent legislation cleaning up the finance industry and ensuring "No more bailouts!", from my readings I've found there is nothing of the sort. As a matter of fact, a lot of the big players in finance (like Goldman Sachs) are STILL able to take outrageous risks with other peoples' money and incur the massive profit potential that goes with big risks, but are assured of even more bailouts if they screw up. This is a moral hazard, and will continue to produce uncertainty in the market and contribute to a weakening of the system (since the system is based on belief of equal treatment under the law).
Without going in to too much detail for what could be an hour-long blog post, we also have the continuing corruption of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These institutions continue to need additional taxpayer infusions, because their business model would never work in a true free market, but they present politicians with a way to reward their buddies with outrageous $$$ all in the name of promoting housing.
No, the economy isn't getting better. Almost every time the government publishes data, like unemployment data, within a month they have to make an adjustment "correction".....it goes like this....on Monday data comes out that looks like things are getting a little better, and that information is trumpeted all over the news for a few days; then, a couple weeks later, the government quietly issues a "correction" that things weren't quite as positive as it seemed.....I've noticed this happening so frequently that it CANNOT be unintentional.
On the bright side!!!!.......soon, the government will take over the healthcare system and, with all the savings and efficiencies that government has brought to, say, education, retirement (Soc Security), and energy (especially the green stuff).......well, things are bound to get better, right??!?!
Given record breaking sales for Black Friday, Thanksgiving weekend and Cyber Monday can we make any statements about a possible end to the recession? No it will take a long time before recession end it depends on our law maker, but this will not help, I never witness shopping on black Friday this is my first time I ever went out to shop on black Friday, but even that was after 10am, because the crown and long waiting line does not worth it. However I was not surprise to see the crown of shoppers and also about 1.2 million shop on cyber on the Monday after thanksgiving.
ALICE –P (70) Given record breaking sales for Black Friday, Thanksgiving weekend and Cyber Monday can we make any statements about a possible end to the recession? No it will take a long time before recession end it depends on our law maker, but this will not help, I never witness shopping on black Friday this is my first time I ever went out to shop on black Friday, but even that was after 10am, because the crown and long waiting line does not worth it. However I was not surprise to see the crown of shoppers and also about 1.2 million shop on cyber on the Monday after thanksgiving.
Patti S 70 in response to Alice P 70 I agree that it will take a long time to end the recession. I also agree that the law makers have a lot to do with it. The crowds were not worth the few bucks saved!
At this time of year I do not see an end to the recession. Everyone in the country is strapped for money. I do not see how people went to the black Friday and spent so much money. From what I have heard is that the sale items were very limited to maybe 5 on sale and then the rest is at regular price. I did not go because of work, but would not have gone because of the crowds. Some in those crowds will actually fight over the few items on sale.
In response to Dennell-70...I agree with you..People do want a change...This suppose to be the most happiest time of the year, but who has the money to celebrate. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL
I think the reason why we had record breaking sales is because people just want to feel normal again. This recession has put a burden on so many people many of us are just stressed. So in order to feel any sense of normalcy, most of us shop! It's one of the greatest remedies to most of our ills.
The sales are truly a way to pull more customers in. Companies know that it doesnt matter what we are going through financially, we will for sure spend on what we want and not what we need.
Rebecca G69 Black Friday and Cyber Monday will most certainly not help or change the recession. It is obvious companies made more money but it does not change the fact people are still out of jobs. I saw on ABC World News that if one spends $64.00 on an American made product from here, then it could help made 200,000 more jobs. But the big issue is that the government needs to stop spending and start earning.
Rebecca G69 In response to...Jason H67 I agree we all just want everything to be normal again. But we are an import country and most of the stuff we want to buy is not American made. It is crucial we should start exporting our products to get more money income.
Kudi I don’t know if the recession is over or not, but I do think that sales were up because we have not spent as much in past years. Personally I do not go to stores on Black Friday, but friends told me that the sales were great.
I don't feel as though much has changed. The economy is still the same. These sales do pull people in, in hopes to get a GREAT deal however, it really depends on what you are looking for. I shopped on Black Friday & only saved a small amount of money. I didn't find deals on things I was really looking for. It is really sad when stores mark up the price just to mark it down to the original price claiming it's on sale. Nothing has changed.
Sparkle R. I most def believe we are still in a recession. Everybody's income is still not what it used to be and everything has gone up in price. & with that happening and everybody loves to save money, people are still going to shop even thought they probably needed to use that money for something more important.
Domenic R.70 The record sells for Thanksgiving weekend, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are a bit misleading. Some stores opened much earlier than previous years giving them the opportunity to break last years goals. We are still in a recession, and if you work retail you can really see it. Customers used to just buy and not think of how much an item cost, now they head straight to the sales rack. We are still in a recession, and I hope it ends very soon.
Rob T Said.... I can make a great statement. The recession is here to stay for a while longer. even the dow made the highest rise since 2009. These people who are elected to lead us to a better way of life; just want to make there pockets fatter.
No, because the record breaking sales are an indication that people are going to keep spending money; although, they do not have it to spend, especially when it’s for the holidays because that is what they do.
Very simply put....NO! People spend money recklessly on materalistic things and cry broke later. I think our society has very little concept of saving. Today's job stability is very shaky and I just would not feel comfortable spending just because of the holiday season. I get frustrated just by spending money on items I need! : )
Megan, if you lost your job or whatever source of income, would the money you spent be missed? (no offense...just sparking friendly debate) If those that did shop spent money that was saved for such occasion I applaude you. Most people depend on maxing out credit cards are creating more debt for themselves.
I work for a major retail chain and from what I understand Black Friday sales were record breaking because of the bad economy. Our prices were way lower than they were last year to entice people to come in and shop, people that wouldn't or shouldn't otherwise be spending that money. If you look at the numbers though, you almost wouldn't believe how much money your local Walmart made in one day...
I agree with you completely. Black Friday (or holiday shopping in general)isn't often planned or rational. It usually consists of people buying all kinds of cheap crap just because its "such a great deal". Many people rely on maxing out their credit cards, myself no exception.
no i do not think so, i think that it is the equivalent to the spike in entertainment earlier in the recession. people need something to feel good about like presents.
I say no way...I agree with many of my fellow students. People are out spending money they simply don't have. Groceries or gifts? Hmm...irrational thinking put those folks out there to buy. One thing people want to do in this recession is do things they normally would do. Christmas is no exception, this is normal behavior, they want to hang on to the traditions they have always participated in...they'll worry about the cost later.
The economy isn't doing well, but it's not stopping people from being irresponsible with their money. Sure, black Friday could be used to an advantage if you're looking for awesome deals on necessities.. but this is rarely the case. Most were only taking advantage of the "deals" on t.v.'s and computers. Interesting to think about. This is not likely a sign of the end to our recession, but it is another way of showing what the American public's priorities are - entertainment(hundreds of millions of dollars spent on gadgets this year) and fashion(the #1 amount of purchases made during black Friday)
I really don't think end of the recession is near at all. Just because black friday did well does not mean that the recession is going away. I think the only reason that black friday did so well is because I feel like alot of people have saved for the special deals of black friday and cyber weeks. Unfortunately there are people like me, that live paycheck to paycheck and can barely save but we somehow do it to be able to wait and get the good deals. Also though there were alot of black friday deals that came a few days early, so in turn it made black friday look good this year.
Elizabeth V. I heard that alot of people were buying things for the home or necassary items on black friday. Maybe people are buying things they need and calling it christmas presents. No sign of the end of the recession just different items on the list this year? I know we replaced our old crappy crockpot and toaster and we waited until black friday to do it so as to get them cheap. I know many families who did the same thing. Wrap it up and stick it under the tree. HAHA Merry Christmas ALL.
Domenic R.70 In response to Melanie P.70.... I agree with you completely. I work for a retailer, and the incentive was unbelievable to get customers in the door. Yes, we had record sales for Black Friday, but at 50% off everything, who wouldn't? I heard Old Navy was offering cameras to the first so many people that came through the door. There are record profits, but the customer is getting way more bang for their buck!
I agree with my classmates. I do not think there has been any major improvements in our economy. I think it has been going on so long people have just become accustomed to it. I think people are spending money they do not have. I know that is the case in our house. We have struggled for years. Hit bottom many times when my husband worked construction. There may be tiny improvements but not anything substantial in my opinion. My husband now works retail and I am in Early Childcare. Our pay will never match the cost of living so we would not benefit or notice any improvement in the economy.
I do not believe that the recession is over. I do believe that the economy for most families had improve... but at a minimum. I thinks that humans are creatures of habit and we had gotten use to the new reality. We make less money, we learn to not shop any more at Publix, instead we go to walmart. We no longer eat out as often as we use to. We buy only when it is on sale. So we figure out ways to make ends meet and still be able to continue to spend as much as possible so we can be happy individuals. We are brain wash into believing that buying and spending makes our life better and happier. Imagine that we barely make enough money to cover our bare necessities -which is the reality of most americans- why would people think that spending thousands of dollares in the name of xmas would make them happy or would be a great thing for our family? I dont understand that. I feel that we can enjoy xmas in a less materialistic way and at the same time have the piece of mind that financially my home is ok... maybe not great- but still ok. I feel it is all about reassessing priorities.
I dont believe this shows an end to the recession. I dont think we will truly ever recover in our life time to where we were before. Instead I think its a matter of retraining americans to be frugal and less wasteful and focus on the things that truly matter. These last couple of years christmas has been more about being with the family and friends that I love and enjoying wonderful food with them. The gifts are inexpensive and meaningful. It truly has given us the true menaing of christmas. I feel as if last year was such a horrible year, and many were hit hard in the face with reality. this year may be the first year america is coming to terms with what is and dealing with it the best way we possibly can. Living life for today and maybe saving up for this christmas to do just a little extra because they realize it may not get any better. Life is short, and money doesnt bring happiness and in these hard times important valuable lessons are learned.
in response to tracy d 67.. yes like you black friday shopping was a family tradition as well for my family.. and we too scaled back alot of the shopping that we used to do in previous years because of limited funds. In years past the shopping lasted ALLL day, but now the past couple of years we are usually done early in the morning! I think those out still shoping when their homes are under foreclosure are in desperate need for a change in mind set. This year for christmas i am baking special cookies and writing everyone a really nice note. That is all i can afford to do this year. HOwever, I do not have kids and I knwo if i did this would not be the case for them. Iwould do anything to try to get them a little bit of christmas but it wouldnot be much and i would teach them the real meaning of christmas and how to be appreciative of what you have. Peoples mind sets have to change and focus on what is important in life. This economy will not get better anytime soon.. and to be honest banks still give too much credit for people now a days. just 3 years ago a friend of mine was approved for a ridicolous amount for a morgage and when they decided to buy a 60,000 house (because thats what they could afford and be comftable) the bank lender tried talking them into spending double that or more "to get more house for your money". Thank goodness my friend was smart and knew their limit. People have to find their limit!
Gina W.62 I think that the economy is not going to get any better anytime soon. Black friday is a weekend to save money for the hefty expense of the holidays. I just had a daughter 2 months ago so every penny I can save I will! I did go shopping on black friday and I have never went on this day in my life becuase of all the people out but needing to save money now more than ever why not take advantage of the sales?!
in response to Meghan Williams we have a lot in common.. we both think that the economy is not going to get better anytime soon. We also did some black friday shopping for our daughters to get it out of the way and to save money!! any chance I can save money at this time I will! :)
Maybe the sales helped some but I am not so sure that the recession is going anywhere just yet. People are going to jump to the thought of saving money, even when they really don't have it. I believe the sales were high this year because people wanted to get all of their shopping done and save as much as possible all at once. I would have went Black Friday shopping myself if I didn't have to work. I am all for saving money!
In response to Meghan Williams....
I completely agree. The sales were high because the deals were good and people were depending on them to get everything they wanted/needed at those discounted prices. I would've done the same!
I don't think the recession is getting better. I'm beginning to wonder where people are getting money to buy things with. I'm broke and not sure how I'm going to buy Christmas presents and didn't even think of going out those days to buy things. I do not charge up credit cards so maybe thats what they are doing. I can save money by shopping close to christmas.I'm glad people did have the chance to save if it helps them out. I look forward to the days the economy gets better and we all can shop at our leisure.
The recession is definitely not getting any better any time soon. I believe the sales were much higher because of the deals and the low prices, since many can't afford the regular price. I believe that they were high because Christmas is the next Holiday and many people want to be able to get gifts for much more cheaper and sooner than normal. I believe this proves that the recession is not yet ending. If it were then the sales wouldn't have been so high because it wasn't necessary.
Like many of the other comments stated I do not feel that one day shows that the economy is out of the recession. It does however show that most Americans have adapted in whatever way they needed to in order to live more comfortably in the present economic situation. Lets face it, no one buys anything when they do not have the resources to do it. For example: if someone put $1000 on their credit card for retail purchases, they would not have done it if their card was maxxed out because they needed to pay their mortgage, car note, utilities and pay for food to survive. Spending this much money, as one source says 11.4 billion dollars (the largest Black Friday sales amount ever, shows that things are getting better. It shows that many had a surplus and were able to benefit from that surplus.
I worked in retail for a number of years and your comment is so true. Many stores mark up items and then have a huge reduction in order to still make their profit. Usually there are very few items that are great deals and in limited quantities. The other items that many people buy can be purchased two weeks before or after Black Friday for the same price.
We can already make statements that the recession is over. It might not feel like it, but it is over. Yes, the job market and employment rates are high. However, look at the trends around our immediate neighborhoods. You see houses being built, people are spending more ('tis the season), families are travelling for the holidays, and there are less news of companies laying off employees recently--even though no one is hiring.
It is believed that the more holiday decorations you see being displayed in neighborhoods, indicates the perceived financial state of the community. Hmmmm...
By no means I am stating that there is a "rosy" outlook for everyone. Families are still struggling (in secret) and have lost their homes... However, to keep my sanity, I focus on what I can control or impact, versus what's not happening or the latest perceived situation; because worrying about it is not going to put food on my table or money in my wallet.
The recession may be on the tail end but I dont think it is over yet. Yes records were set for black friday, but retailers are continuing to offer deep discounts well into the holiday season in order to entice shoppers in their store. They want to keep the momentum built and keep shoppers coming out as they know its a rough time for our economy. I do feel in the next 2 years we can say the recession is over, but it is not yet in my opinion.
I was one of those people who witnessed people fighting over sale items . That is why you can justify the recession being ongoing as well. People are crazy about deals more so than in a stable economy. I walked into Walmart in LOCUST GROVE.....which I thought would be less congested then say the Walmart in Johns Creek or Dunwoody. People had been waiting for sale items with their hands on the item itself since 5 pm , and I arrived at 830pm.
Octavio P 41 I always thought that if you wanted to save money, you had to deposit it in a savings account, or worst case scenario (before the Savings and Loan debacle), hide it under your mattress. But saving money also means not paying full price for what we purchase. We can’t learn that instant gratification is what brought us to the predicament that we are living through today. We can’t tell our children that, there are bigger and better things in life than electronics and “stuff”. We are afraid to discover that when past generations were poor, it was because they didn’t have money in the bank, not because they couldn’t spend what they didn’t have. The deep hole that we dug is not only material, but spiritual. We tried for years to fill our emptiness with things, and the more things we owned the “better” we felt. For many of us the gravy train has stopped, and we can’t figure out how to live out of the mall or with ourselves. We can’t let the Jones‘s know that we are out of the competition. The obsession that created the catastrophic financial mess that we are experiencing today, is alive and strong. We learned to oppress our emotional shortcomings with the things that only wealthy people should be able to obtain in a capitalistic society like ours. It will take longer for us to mend our vanity that it will take our government to repair our economy. Either one won’t be solve overnight. Life is wonderful in so many ways, and yes the economy is not improving much or at all, but this is the time to improve our lives. It’s time to read, to talk, to finally understand life for what it is, a journey worth taking.
Octavio P 41 I always thought that if you wanted to save money, you had to deposit it in a savings account, or worst case scenario (before the Savings and Loan debacle), hide it under your mattress. But saving money also means not paying full price for what we purchase. We can’t learn that instant gratification is what brought us to the predicament that we are living through today. We can’t tell our children that, there are bigger and better things in life than electronics and “stuff”. We are afraid to discover that when past generations were poor, it was because they didn’t have money in the bank, not because they couldn’t spend what they didn’t have. The deep hole that we dug is not only material, but spiritual. We tried for years to fill our emptiness with things, and the more things we owned the “better” we felt. For many of us the gravy train has stopped, and we can’t figure out how to live out of the mall or with ourselves. We can’t let the Jones‘s know that we are out of the competition. The obsession that created the catastrophic financial mess that we are experiencing today, is alive and strong. We learned to oppress our emotional shortcomings with the things that only wealthy people should be able to obtain in a capitalistic society like ours. It will take longer for us to mend our vanity that it will take our government to repair our economy. Either one won’t be solve overnight. Life is wonderful in so many ways, and yes the economy is not improving much or at all, but this is the time to improve our lives. It’s time to read, to talk, to finally understand life for what it is, a journey worth taking.
Octavio P41 response In my opinion, which I believe is a known fact, the present administration hasn’t been able to bring us out of the financial abyss, but it was not the one that started it. Did Americans honestly believe that such a mess created by all of us, by living for so long beyond our means, could had been fixed in less than a decade by anyone? I believe that race keeps playing an ugly role in our society, and many are using the political venue to conceal their dormant racist attitude. We always hear how the United States of America is hostage to Middle Eastern countries or Venezuela because of our thirst for oil. Let’s talked about how we the people are hostages to corporate America when those in power refuse to create jobs because bigger profits could result in higher taxes for them, because they must deliver an insane ROI to their shareholders, and immoral bonuses for their CEO’s, or maybe because they want this administration to fail. How much money is too much money? Do their country and fellow citizens mean anything to them besides a dollar sign? I couldn’t care less for Middle East dictators or communist Hugo Chavez, but it really bothers me to see how ruthless and greedy our own could be.
No. I think the recession is here and will be here for many years to come. Our economy is so jacked up that peoples motivation to shop and spend money on one particular day of lunatics does not make a dent in our sinking economy. I am happy to see people not losing their motivation to buy gifts and enjoy the holidays. It perhaps is what keeps us from going into a depression. But the recession isn't going anywhere anytime soon. It will only take a miracle.
In response to Seleena-
I agree with you. If we weren't in a recession then the demand for such low prices would not be so big. People would be spending money on regularly priced items rather than enduring insane crowds and ridiculous lines to get a "special deal".
Niyah Miles The economy has not changed much. The most change I notice is the recent, slow decrease in gas prices in my area. Which is the usual thing that people notice fluctuating in their local economy. The housing market is down and as some prices for certain other things raise, other prices do fall, but employment is not getting much greater. However, people spend as pricing trends change, and it all balances back. People are not seeming to get much richer or poorer these days. Going with the flow if the economy it is hard to say where the recession stands at this point. I relate to what Patti S 70 said.. The economy is not getting much better but people, like always, want to save money, even though it is spent faster than many have planned. Then most people end up right back in the financial position they began in. That is how the economy seems to be. It is like a circle that repeats itself but with very minor changes every once in a while. -Niyah Miles
Times are still tough, but not as bad as some people think. It is good to see the amount of business we did during the sales. I heard on CNN a statistic that grabbed my attention. Our rate of unemployment is around 425k people a week, opposed to 375k people a week during a good economy. This really is not a huge difference in the big picture. I think the economy is doing better.
In response to Niyah Miles,
I don't think it is as bad as you think. The gas prices are a good sign but not the only good sign.
I do not think record breaking sales in a short period of time indicate the recession is coming to an end. I feel that stores do a good job of advertising and lowering prices enough to still gain a profit, but convince people they are going to miss out if they do not jump on the deal. Even though the shopper may not have the $20 in the first place they feel that since the item was marked down from say $40 to $20 they have to buy it at this great price. As far as the end of the recession, I feel that once the holiday season is over we will still see families struggling to pay mortgages and pay bills.
JWilliams-67 I don't think that Black Friday sales are a good sign that we are out of a recession. Remember if the amount of money that they get back in sales has doubled, then since the value of the dollar has almost dropped by half, they are still only making the same amount of money. Personally, I believe the worst is yet to come.
The recession hasn't gone anywhere. I believe that most people will spend their money on holidays regardless of their financial position. Many of my relatives are living off welfare, yet they still spend all their money on the holidays because it makes their family happy. There is still a great amount of people living from check to check.
In response to Meghan Williams
I agree with you, black Friday sales were so high because people having been saving their money in preparation for all the big sales on black Friday. I believe that Black Friday sales were high BECAUSE we are in a Recession. People are taking more advantage of the deals and low prices on Black Friday simply because they need them and they prepared. If we wasn't in a recession, nobody would care as much to shop on Black Friday.
Brisa L. 70 No, I don't believe the recession is over and the breaking record sales for Black Friday proves that people are desperate in finding sales because there is no extra money leftover after paying bills, however people can save even more money other times of the year, but because of so much publicity everyone is crazy about going shopping on Black Friday.
Brisa L. 70 in response to S. Howe 70 I do agree with you S. Howe some people just buy things to have them and not because they need them, and others spend money that don't even have.
I do not think we are a tthe end of the recession. I think that more sales on BF and CM are due to more people braving the crowd to save some money on the things they would be buying anyway. I go BF shoopping every year and this year there were at least double the number of people I usually see out. I don't know if this was economy related or that the stores opened at midnight this year and more people were up. I don't forsee the economy getting better until we have a different president, less government spending and several years of serious recovery.
In response to Tracey D67 It's also a tradition for us to BF shop. The closer it gets the more I look forward to it! I agree that the housing market will probably never fully recover from the forclosures. the construction business will never be the same either.
Black Friday cannot be compared to the recession. Black Friday is the day when people try to get deals on items they have been needing or wanting. I don't feel that the country will every recover from the housing market or even the unemployment rate because of the fear of the unknown.
I agree with Ryan regarding the stores. The stores do a good job of advertising and lowering prices enough to still gain a profit, but convince people they are going to miss out if they do not jump on the deal. I did not go shopping because it wasn't in my budget. I have learned that sometimes what we think are deals really are not, if we have to sacrifice something else.
MaryO-70 I do not necessarily think the overwhelming sales on Black Friday mean we can see an end to the recession any time soon. I think people spend above and beyond their means and perhaps do so even to relieve some of the stress and depression they may be experiencing from the recession.
I agree many people will spend above and beyond their means just because of the holiday season....even those individuals who live paycheck to paycheck.
I thought the statistics you mention was interesting also. I feel it is obsurd to think that our economy is doing good when 375,000 people are drawing unemployment a week. That statistic does not account for the homeless and seasonal workers that are jobless and unable to draw unemployment.
Frank J 67 I think it comes off as looking like a plus but it is during an isolated period of the year. If this trend happened throughout the year on days that don't have knock-down-door prices, then i would say that we are coming out of the recession. People nowadays spend well beyond their means. They also try to hold on to the ability to spend for Christmas so i wouldn't be surprised if this jump in sales is a sign that most people nowadays are saving for this time of year throughout the year.
In response to everybody, Looks like we all agree, this doesn't prove that we are coming out of the recession. Spending is only part of proof of a recession ending. If there were more jobs created, less unemployed and our nation's GDP was going up, then i would believe that we were on the up trend.
BJ C.... I don't believe that one day of record breaking sales will help our economy. I believe that it is going to be in the toilet for a while. I believe that what we see on black Friday is just a lot of desperate people trying to have some normalcy in their lives. Most of these people probably haven’t shopped all year long and this was their one day to come out and shop so I am not sure how it will make any difference. If you have awful sales all year long there is no way one day could put you in the black. I just feel that we will be in this terrible recession for a while, until we decide to stop shipping everything out of our country and bring back our own industries in the good old USA.
BJ C in response to Dalton Cash Totally agree with you. While our unemployment rate is at its absolute highest how in the world can we fathom that one shopping day could make our economy better.
I believe the whole Cyber Monday and Black Friday are overrated. Our recession is still very much alive. I can Guarentee you that half of those merchdises that were brought will be returned back to the stores. There are some cases where we wanted an item and decided to wait for black friday or cyber monday for it to go on sale to be able to purchase it to save a few dollars. I wouldn't let the sales numbers fool you. Half of those people right now are probally wondering how they're going to pay their rent/mortgage or utility bill. Just my thoughts. Not hating in the least.
I agree in ref to your statement"I think people spend above and beyond their means and perhaps do so even to relieve some of the stress and depression they may be experiencing from the recession" but its like i mentioned, it always feels good to be able to shop but the aftermath is even worse. With so many people being on umenployemt or unemployeed you'd think those numbers would have been a little lower. The numbers that i'm waiting on are the estimated returns.
well i didnt join in any of those shopping days and as for the end of the recession im not sure i can agree with that over three shopping days. i think everyone just likes getting everything at a bargain and what better day to do so.
in response to Denell B-70
i couldnt agree more people have been pay check to pay check for a few years. i also agree that the holidays is a time to be thankful and to enjoy your family and friends. there really is no guarantee there will be a tomorrow!
I did not do any shopping on Black Friday, only because of all the chaos and long lines. Watching the news and seeing the long lines, scared me. I think that the recession will one day soon be over, but I do not believe it is over. People, save for Black Friday, they know that is the best time for Christmas shopping. Also,there are going to be a few that spend money that they should be saving.
I totally agree with you. Most people probably spent money they should not have and are behind on their bills. The other half prepared and saved for this day. A lot of people's priorities are not in order.
Porsha P-69 The economy is getting better in my opinion because unemployment is down. Consumers are purchasing BMW and Mercedes at high rates. People also are buying more houses this year because the value of homes has dropped alot. People can save more money because they purchase a house 40 percent cheaper than they could 5 years ago. This allows people to save money and shop during black friday.
Porsha P-69 In reference to Dalton Cash, I agree to your statement. I saw on CNN that homes that are being taken away from previous owners are being sold just as quick to lawyers ,doctors and etc.. Many people are not making money like they use to but they are taking of advantage of buying homes for cheap prices. This helps the bank free of property space for new accounts.
Michael S -69 I dont think we are coming out of the recession at all. I believe people are hurting so bad that shopping on black friday may have been the only way they could afford there Christmas this year. I never go shopping on this day and I was tempted this year because my job is laying people off till next april after this year ends. Sales projections for next year at the rock quarry are record lows. So I'm not to positive about the turn around, although I hope and pray thats the case.
Michael S-69 in response to Rebeca G-69 I agree with rebeca many people are still out of jobs. I believe in Georgia alone we have reach record number for unemployment. The government really needs to respond to whats going on around them and stop pointing fingers and do whats right to help this country climb out of this hole we've spent our self into. Spending over our means is what has got us into this mess so its hard to believe that more spending in all the wrong places is going to help matters any. Jobs need to be created before we see any major improvements in our economy.
Just because people spent a ton of money during those few days, I don't believe that means that the recession is ending. Plenty of people may have used credit or saving to buy on those days. I agree with the post above. From my understanding there is still so many people without jobs. In my opinion once our unemployment numbers go down that is when we can consider the possibility of the recession ending.
I do not think record sales at peak shopping times mark the end of a recession. People are still out of a job and others struggle with poverty. But, discounts and saved funds around this time usually gets people out and shopping.
Patti S 70
ReplyDeleteI don't see the economy getting a whole lot better. I think people were just looking to save money at all costs. I personally did not go shopping on those days, because I had to work. My husband is in the construction industry and with the housing market in the tank, we are just as strapped as ever. It will be a frugal Christmas at our house!
Denell B-70
ReplyDeleteI am not so sure that the recession is close to an end but that people want a change. For the past couple of years everyone has been worried about the next pay check and paying bills. The holidays are a time to be happy and thankful for what you have. There is no guarantee that we will be here tomorrow.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Denell B-70
ReplyDeleteIn response to Patti S
We do agree that the economy has not changed tremendously. I did not go shopping either and Christmas will be more budget conscious at my house also! I guess that more people will be concentrating on family and friends being together for the holiday, as it should be.
Merry Christmas!
Meghan Williams
ReplyDeleteI do not think that the economy is getting a whole lot better and that black Friday sales were so high because people having been saving their money in preparation for all the big sales on black Friday. I feel that this black Friday had such high sales records because everyone was hoping to get their shopping done on this day because the deals are so good and they were counting on them to get everything they wanted so they didn't have to spend money they don't have on any other day that doesn't have these discount prices. I did go shopping on Black Friday and I got all of my shopping done for my daughter without putting a huge dent in my wallet.
Lafarah P
ReplyDeleteI do not see the recession ending anytime soon, as for the record sales on black friday and cyber monday regardless of the recession people are going to spend money on what they want rather then need. The sales are just an extra way to pull people into spending their money !
Tracey D (67)
ReplyDeleteI did go shopping and was shocked at the number of people, as I am every year. It certainly did not appear that the economy was hurting, however I was layed off this past June and therefore I only bought a few items and mostly went because this is a family tradition with my mom and sisters.
I think people are going to continue to spend even if they don't have the money. I don't understand why a person would rather their house be foreclosed on vs. spending money or using credit cards to get deeper in debt.
I don't see how the housing market will ever recover from all the foreclosures, but time will tell. I think the banks are the ones suffering for offering all those loans to people that could not truly afford such high priced homes. And just because people are giving their homes up to foreclosure, doesn't mean they can't earn money, find a place to live, or spend their money.
Tracey D (67) in response to Meghan,
ReplyDeleteI also agree that the sales on this particular day were possibly higher due to more people wanting to save money. I was amazed to see all the news reports of fighting and over things such as towels. When people get that mob mentality and are fighting over things that truly don't matter in life, then you know people are desperate.
constance cooper 67
ReplyDeletei beleive the only reason we had record breaking sales is because stores were open longer this year then in previous years. More hours means more possible customers, more customers means more money. the recession may eventually begin to clear up but i dont beleive we can use these times as a an excuse.
i also believe sales were record breaking because people dont have money so if they can accomplish all there shopping now while everything is cheaper its less shopping they have to do later. people are spending about what they would have to begin with just packed into one weekend instead of a few weeks.
Uh, no. Don't see much good happening in the economy and, what's worse, a lot of the stupid, idiot, and yet useful (if you're a certain type of politician) policies are still in place.
ReplyDeleteFor instance, despite all the talk of the recent legislation cleaning up the finance industry and ensuring "No more bailouts!", from my readings I've found there is nothing of the sort. As a matter of fact, a lot of the big players in finance (like Goldman Sachs) are STILL able to take outrageous risks with other peoples' money and incur the massive profit potential that goes with big risks, but are assured of even more bailouts if they screw up. This is a moral hazard, and will continue to produce uncertainty in the market and contribute to a weakening of the system (since the system is based on belief of equal treatment under the law).
Without going in to too much detail for what could be an hour-long blog post, we also have the continuing corruption of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These institutions continue to need additional taxpayer infusions, because their business model would never work in a true free market, but they present politicians with a way to reward their buddies with outrageous $$$ all in the name of promoting housing.
No, the economy isn't getting better. Almost every time the government publishes data, like unemployment data, within a month they have to make an adjustment "correction".....it goes like this....on Monday data comes out that looks like things are getting a little better, and that information is trumpeted all over the news for a few days; then, a couple weeks later, the government quietly issues a "correction" that things weren't quite as positive as it seemed.....I've noticed this happening so frequently that it CANNOT be unintentional.
On the bright side!!!!.......soon, the government will take over the healthcare system and, with all the savings and efficiencies that government has brought to, say, education, retirement (Soc Security), and energy (especially the green stuff).......well, things are bound to get better, right??!?!
In response to Patti S 70....
ReplyDeleteI agree that things ain't gettin' no better, and folks were just looking to save and stretch out the few bucks they had for presents or what have you.
Given record breaking sales for Black Friday, Thanksgiving weekend and Cyber Monday can we make any statements about a possible end to the recession? No it will take a long time before recession end it depends on our law maker, but this will not help, I never witness shopping on black Friday this is my first time I ever went out to shop on black Friday, but even that was after 10am, because the crown and long waiting line does not worth it. However I was not surprise to see the crown of shoppers and also about 1.2 million shop on cyber on the Monday after thanksgiving.
ReplyDeleteALICE –P (70)
ReplyDeleteGiven record breaking sales for Black Friday, Thanksgiving weekend and Cyber Monday can we make any statements about a possible end to the recession? No it will take a long time before recession end it depends on our law maker, but this will not help, I never witness shopping on black Friday this is my first time I ever went out to shop on black Friday, but even that was after 10am, because the crown and long waiting line does not worth it. However I was not surprise to see the crown of shoppers and also about 1.2 million shop on cyber on the Monday after thanksgiving.
Patti S 70 in response to Alice P 70
ReplyDeleteI agree that it will take a long time to end the recession. I also agree that the law makers have a lot to do with it. The crowds were not worth the few bucks saved!
At this time of year I do not see an end to the recession. Everyone in the country is strapped for money. I do not see how people went to the black Friday and spent so much money. From what I have heard is that the sale items were very limited to maybe 5 on sale and then the rest is at regular price. I did not go because of work, but would not have gone because of the crowds. Some in those crowds will actually fight over the few items on sale.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Dennell-70...I agree with you..People do want a change...This suppose to be the most happiest time of the year, but who has the money to celebrate. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL
ReplyDeleteJason H-67
ReplyDeleteI think the reason why we had record breaking sales is because people just want to feel normal again. This recession has put a burden on so many people many of us are just stressed. So in order to feel any sense of normalcy, most of us shop! It's one of the greatest remedies to most of our ills.
Jason H-67 responds to Lafarah P
ReplyDeleteThe sales are truly a way to pull more customers in. Companies know that it doesnt matter what we are going through financially, we will for sure spend on what we want and not what we need.
Rebecca G69
ReplyDeleteBlack Friday and Cyber Monday will most certainly not help or change the recession. It is obvious companies made more money but it does not change the fact people are still out of jobs. I saw on ABC World News that if one spends $64.00 on an American made product from here, then it could help made 200,000 more jobs. But the big issue is that the government needs to stop spending and start earning.
Rebecca G69
ReplyDeleteIn response to...Jason H67
I agree we all just want everything to be normal again. But we are an import country and most of the stuff we want to buy is not American made. It is crucial we should start exporting our products to get more money income.
Kudi
ReplyDeleteI don’t know if the recession is over or not, but I do think that sales were up because we have not spent as much in past years. Personally I do not go to stores on Black Friday, but friends told me that the sales were great.
I don't feel as though much has changed. The economy is still the same. These sales do pull people in, in hopes to get a GREAT deal however, it really depends on what you are looking for. I shopped on Black Friday & only saved a small amount of money. I didn't find deals on things I was really looking for. It is really sad when stores mark up the price just to mark it down to the original price claiming it's on sale. Nothing has changed.
ReplyDeleteSparkle R.
ReplyDeleteI most def believe we are still in a recession. Everybody's income is still not what it used to be and everything has gone up in price. & with that happening and everybody loves to save money, people are still going to shop even thought they probably needed to use that money for something more important.
Domenic R.70
ReplyDeleteThe record sells for Thanksgiving weekend, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday are a bit misleading. Some stores opened much earlier than previous years giving them the opportunity to break last years goals. We are still in a recession, and if you work retail you can really see it. Customers used to just buy and not think of how much an item cost, now they head straight to the sales rack. We are still in a recession, and I hope it ends very soon.
Rob T Said....
ReplyDeleteI can make a great statement. The recession is here to stay for a while longer. even the dow made the highest rise since 2009. These people who are elected to lead us to a better way of life; just want to make there pockets fatter.
Michelle J.
ReplyDeleteNo, because the record breaking sales are an indication that people are going to keep spending money; although, they do not have it to spend, especially when it’s for the holidays because that is what they do.
S. Howe 70
ReplyDeleteVery simply put....NO! People spend money recklessly on materalistic things and cry broke later. I think our society has very little concept of saving. Today's job stability is very shaky and I just would not feel comfortable spending just because of the holiday season. I get frustrated just by spending money on items I need! : )
S. Howe 70 in response to Meghan Williams
ReplyDeleteMegan, if you lost your job or whatever source of income, would the money you spent be missed? (no offense...just sparking friendly debate) If those that did shop spent money that was saved for such occasion I applaude you. Most people depend on maxing out credit cards are creating more debt for themselves.
MelanieP.70
ReplyDeleteI work for a major retail chain and from what I understand Black Friday sales were record breaking because of the bad economy. Our prices were way lower than they were last year to entice people to come in and shop, people that wouldn't or shouldn't otherwise be spending that money. If you look at the numbers though, you almost wouldn't believe how much money your local Walmart made in one day...
MelanieP.70 in response to Megan Williams....
ReplyDeleteI agree with you completely. Black Friday (or holiday shopping in general)isn't often planned or rational. It usually consists of people buying all kinds of cheap crap just because its "such a great deal". Many people rely on maxing out their credit cards, myself no exception.
no i do not think so, i think that it is the equivalent to the spike in entertainment earlier in the recession. people need something to feel good about like presents.
ReplyDeleteLelia C.
ReplyDeleteI say no way...I agree with many of my fellow students. People are out spending money they simply don't have. Groceries or gifts? Hmm...irrational thinking put those folks out there to buy. One thing people want to do in this recession is do things they normally would do. Christmas is no exception, this is normal behavior, they want to hang on to the traditions they have always participated in...they'll worry about the cost later.
The economy isn't doing well, but it's not stopping people from being irresponsible with their money. Sure, black Friday could be used to an advantage if you're looking for awesome deals on necessities.. but this is rarely the case. Most were only taking advantage of the "deals" on t.v.'s and computers. Interesting to think about. This is not likely a sign of the end to our recession, but it is another way of showing what the American public's priorities are - entertainment(hundreds of millions of dollars spent on gadgets this year) and fashion(the #1 amount of purchases made during black Friday)
ReplyDeleteSandraS/69
ReplyDeleteI really don't think end of the recession is near at all. Just because black friday did well does not mean that the recession is going away. I think the only reason that black friday did so well is because I feel like alot of people have saved for the special deals of black friday and cyber weeks. Unfortunately there are people like me, that live paycheck to paycheck and can barely save but we somehow do it to be able to wait and get the good deals. Also though there were alot of black friday deals that came a few days early, so in turn it made black friday look good this year.
Elizabeth V.
ReplyDeleteI heard that alot of people were buying things for the home or necassary items on black friday. Maybe people are buying things they need and calling it christmas presents. No sign of the end of the recession just different items on the list this year? I know we replaced our old crappy crockpot and toaster and we waited until black friday to do it so as to get them cheap. I know many families who did the same thing. Wrap it up and stick it under the tree. HAHA Merry Christmas ALL.
Domenic R.70
ReplyDeleteIn response to Melanie P.70....
I agree with you completely. I work for a retailer, and the incentive was unbelievable to get customers in the door. Yes, we had record sales for Black Friday, but at 50% off everything, who wouldn't? I heard Old Navy was offering cameras to the first so many people that came through the door. There are record profits, but the customer is getting way more bang for their buck!
Dana M. 70
ReplyDeleteI agree with my classmates. I do not think there has been any major improvements in our economy. I think it has been going on so long people have just become accustomed to it. I think people are spending money they do not have. I know that is the case in our house. We have struggled for years. Hit bottom many times when my husband worked construction. There may be tiny improvements but not anything substantial in my opinion. My husband now works retail and I am in Early Childcare. Our pay will never match the cost of living so we would not benefit or notice any improvement in the economy.
Maria S
ReplyDeleteI do not believe that the recession is over. I do believe that the economy for most families had improve... but at a minimum. I thinks that humans are creatures of habit and we had gotten use to the new reality. We make less money, we learn to not shop any more at Publix, instead we go to walmart. We no longer eat out as often as we use to. We buy only when it is on sale. So we figure out ways to make ends meet and still be able to continue to spend as much as possible so we can be happy individuals. We are brain wash into believing that buying and spending makes our life better and happier. Imagine that we barely make enough money to cover our bare necessities -which is the reality of most americans- why would people think that spending thousands of dollares in the name of xmas would make them happy or would be a great thing for our family? I dont understand that. I feel that we can enjoy xmas in a less materialistic way and at the same time have the piece of mind that financially my home is ok... maybe not great- but still ok. I feel it is all about reassessing priorities.
I dont believe this shows an end to the recession. I dont think we will truly ever recover in our life time to where we were before. Instead I think its a matter of retraining americans to be frugal and less wasteful and focus on the things that truly matter. These last couple of years christmas has been more about being with the family and friends that I love and enjoying wonderful food with them. The gifts are inexpensive and meaningful. It truly has given us the true menaing of christmas. I feel as if last year was such a horrible year, and many were hit hard in the face with reality. this year may be the first year america is coming to terms with what is and dealing with it the best way we possibly can. Living life for today and maybe saving up for this christmas to do just a little extra because they realize it may not get any better. Life is short, and money doesnt bring happiness and in these hard times important valuable lessons are learned.
ReplyDeletesarah b16
in response to tracy d 67..
ReplyDeleteyes like you black friday shopping was a family tradition as well for my family.. and we too scaled back alot of the shopping that we used to do in previous years because of limited funds. In years past the shopping lasted ALLL day, but now the past couple of years we are usually done early in the morning! I think those out still shoping when their homes are under foreclosure are in desperate need for a change in mind set. This year for christmas i am baking special cookies and writing everyone a really nice note. That is all i can afford to do this year. HOwever, I do not have kids and I knwo if i did this would not be the case for them. Iwould do anything to try to get them a little bit of christmas but it wouldnot be much and i would teach them the real meaning of christmas and how to be appreciative of what you have. Peoples mind sets have to change and focus on what is important in life. This economy will not get better anytime soon.. and to be honest banks still give too much credit for people now a days. just 3 years ago a friend of mine was approved for a ridicolous amount for a morgage and when they decided to buy a 60,000 house (because thats what they could afford and be comftable) the bank lender tried talking them into spending double that or more "to get more house for your money". Thank goodness my friend was smart and knew their limit. People have to find their limit!
sarah b 16
Gina W.62
ReplyDeleteI think that the economy is not going to get any better anytime soon. Black friday is a weekend to save money for the hefty expense of the holidays. I just had a daughter 2 months ago so every penny I can save I will! I did go shopping on black friday and I have never went on this day in my life becuase of all the people out but needing to save money now more than ever why not take advantage of the sales?!
in response to Meghan Williams
we have a lot in common.. we both think that the economy is not going to get better anytime soon. We also did some black friday shopping for our daughters to get it out of the way and to save money!! any chance I can save money at this time I will! :)
ToniaD15
ReplyDeleteMaybe the sales helped some but I am not so sure that the recession is going anywhere just yet. People are going to jump to the thought of saving money, even when they really don't have it. I believe the sales were high this year because people wanted to get all of their shopping done and save as much as possible all at once. I would have went Black Friday shopping myself if I didn't have to work. I am all for saving money!
In response to Meghan Williams....
I completely agree. The sales were high because the deals were good and people were depending on them to get everything they wanted/needed at those discounted prices. I would've done the same!
Renee A 67
ReplyDeleteI don't think the recession is getting better. I'm beginning to wonder where people are getting money to buy things with. I'm broke and not sure how I'm going to buy Christmas presents and didn't even think of going out those days to buy things. I do not charge up credit cards so maybe thats what they are doing.
I can save money by shopping close to christmas.I'm glad people did have the chance to save if it helps them out. I look forward to the days the economy gets better and we all can shop at our leisure.
The recession is definitely not getting any better any time soon. I believe the sales were much higher because of the deals and the low prices, since many can't afford the regular price. I believe that they were high because Christmas is the next Holiday and many people want to be able to get gifts for much more cheaper and sooner than normal. I believe this proves that the recession is not yet ending. If it were then the sales wouldn't have been so high because it wasn't necessary.
ReplyDeleteLike many of the other comments stated I do not feel that one day shows that the economy is out of the recession. It does however show that most Americans have adapted in whatever way they needed to in order to live more comfortably in the present economic situation. Lets face it, no one buys anything when they do not have the resources to do it. For example: if someone put $1000 on their credit card for retail purchases, they would not have done it if their card was maxxed out because they needed to pay their mortgage, car note, utilities and pay for food to survive. Spending this much money, as one source says 11.4 billion dollars (the largest Black Friday sales amount ever, shows that things are getting better. It shows that many had a surplus and were able to benefit from that surplus.
ReplyDeleteI worked in retail for a number of years and your comment is so true. Many stores mark up items and then have a huge reduction in order to still make their profit. Usually there are very few items that are great deals and in limited quantities. The other items that many people buy can be purchased two weeks before or after Black Friday for the same price.
ReplyDeleteMauriceR
ReplyDeleteWe can already make statements that the recession is over. It might not feel like it, but it is over. Yes, the job market and employment rates are high. However, look at the trends around our immediate neighborhoods. You see houses being built, people are spending more ('tis the season), families are travelling for the holidays, and there are less news of companies laying off employees recently--even though no one is hiring.
It is believed that the more holiday decorations you see being displayed in neighborhoods, indicates the perceived financial state of the community. Hmmmm...
By no means I am stating that there is a "rosy" outlook for everyone. Families are still struggling (in secret) and have lost their homes... However, to keep my sanity, I focus on what I can control or impact, versus what's not happening or the latest perceived situation; because worrying about it is not going to put food on my table or money in my wallet.
George M 67
ReplyDeleteThe recession may be on the tail end but I dont think it is over yet. Yes records were set for black friday, but retailers are continuing to offer deep discounts well into the holiday season in order to entice shoppers in their store. They want to keep the momentum built and keep shoppers coming out as they know its a rough time for our economy. I do feel in the next 2 years we can say the recession is over, but it is not yet in my opinion.
George M 67 in response to Ann L 49
ReplyDeleteI was one of those people who witnessed people fighting over sale items . That is why you can justify the recession being ongoing as well. People are crazy about deals more so than in a stable economy. I walked into Walmart in LOCUST GROVE.....which I thought would be less congested then say the Walmart in Johns Creek or Dunwoody. People had been waiting for sale items with their hands on the item itself since 5 pm , and I arrived at 830pm.
Octavio P 41
ReplyDeleteI always thought that if you wanted to save money, you had to deposit it in a savings account, or worst case scenario (before the Savings and Loan debacle), hide it under your mattress. But saving money also means not paying full price for what we purchase.
We can’t learn that instant gratification is what brought us to the predicament that we are living through today. We can’t tell our children that, there are bigger and better things in life than electronics and “stuff”. We are afraid to discover that when past generations were poor, it was because they didn’t have money in the bank, not because they couldn’t spend what they didn’t have. The deep hole that we dug is not only material, but spiritual. We tried for years to fill our emptiness with things, and the more things we owned the “better” we felt. For many of us the gravy train has stopped, and we can’t figure out how to live out of the mall or with ourselves. We can’t let the Jones‘s know that we are out of the competition.
The obsession that created the catastrophic financial mess that we are experiencing today, is alive and strong. We learned to oppress our emotional shortcomings with the things that only wealthy people should be able to obtain in a capitalistic society like ours. It will take longer for us to mend our vanity that it will take our government to repair our economy. Either one won’t be solve overnight.
Life is wonderful in so many ways, and yes the economy is not improving much or at all, but this is the time to improve our lives. It’s time to read, to talk, to finally understand life for what it is, a journey worth taking.
Octavio P 41
ReplyDeleteI always thought that if you wanted to save money, you had to deposit it in a savings account, or worst case scenario (before the Savings and Loan debacle), hide it under your mattress. But saving money also means not paying full price for what we purchase.
We can’t learn that instant gratification is what brought us to the predicament that we are living through today. We can’t tell our children that, there are bigger and better things in life than electronics and “stuff”. We are afraid to discover that when past generations were poor, it was because they didn’t have money in the bank, not because they couldn’t spend what they didn’t have. The deep hole that we dug is not only material, but spiritual. We tried for years to fill our emptiness with things, and the more things we owned the “better” we felt. For many of us the gravy train has stopped, and we can’t figure out how to live out of the mall or with ourselves. We can’t let the Jones‘s know that we are out of the competition.
The obsession that created the catastrophic financial mess that we are experiencing today, is alive and strong. We learned to oppress our emotional shortcomings with the things that only wealthy people should be able to obtain in a capitalistic society like ours. It will take longer for us to mend our vanity that it will take our government to repair our economy. Either one won’t be solve overnight.
Life is wonderful in so many ways, and yes the economy is not improving much or at all, but this is the time to improve our lives. It’s time to read, to talk, to finally understand life for what it is, a journey worth taking.
Octavio P41 response
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, which I believe is a known fact, the present administration hasn’t been able to bring us out of the financial abyss, but it was not the one that started it. Did Americans honestly believe that such a mess created by all of us, by living for so long beyond our means, could had been fixed in less than a decade by anyone? I believe that race keeps playing an ugly role in our society, and many are using the political venue to conceal their dormant racist attitude. We always hear how the United States of America is hostage to Middle Eastern countries or Venezuela because of our thirst for oil. Let’s talked about how we the people are hostages to corporate America when those in power refuse to create jobs because bigger profits could result in higher taxes for them, because they must deliver an insane ROI to their shareholders, and immoral bonuses for their CEO’s, or maybe because they want this administration to fail. How much money is too much money? Do their country and fellow citizens mean anything to them besides a dollar sign? I couldn’t care less for Middle East dictators or communist Hugo Chavez, but it really bothers me to see how ruthless and greedy our own could be.
Susette R. 67-
ReplyDeleteNo. I think the recession is here and will be here for many years to come. Our economy is so jacked up that peoples motivation to shop and spend money on one particular day of lunatics does not make a dent in our sinking economy. I am happy to see people not losing their motivation to buy gifts and enjoy the holidays. It perhaps is what keeps us from going into a depression. But the recession isn't going anywhere anytime soon. It will only take a miracle.
In response to Seleena-
I agree with you. If we weren't in a recession then the demand for such low prices would not be so big. People would be spending money on regularly priced items rather than enduring insane crowds and ridiculous lines to get a "special deal".
Niyah Miles
ReplyDeleteThe economy has not changed much. The most change I notice is the recent, slow decrease in gas prices in my area. Which is the usual thing that people notice fluctuating in their local economy. The housing market is down and as some prices for certain other things raise, other prices do fall, but employment is not getting much greater. However, people spend as pricing trends change, and it all balances back. People are not seeming to get much richer or poorer these days. Going with the flow if the economy it is hard to say where the recession stands at this point.
I relate to what Patti S 70 said..
The economy is not getting much better but people, like always, want to save money, even though it is spent faster than many have planned. Then most people end up right back in the financial position they began in. That is how the economy seems to be. It is like a circle that repeats itself but with very minor changes every once in a while.
-Niyah Miles
Times are still tough, but not as bad as some people think. It is good to see the amount of business we did during the sales. I heard on CNN a statistic that grabbed my attention. Our rate of unemployment is around 425k people a week, opposed to 375k people a week during a good economy. This really is not a huge difference in the big picture. I think the economy is doing better.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Niyah Miles,
I don't think it is as bad as you think. The gas prices are a good sign but not the only good sign.
Ryan H. (69)
ReplyDeleteI do not think record breaking sales in a short period of time indicate the recession is coming to an end. I feel that stores do a good job of advertising and lowering prices enough to still gain a profit, but convince people they are going to miss out if they do not jump on the deal. Even though the shopper may not have the $20 in the first place they feel that since the item was marked down from say $40 to $20 they have to buy it at this great price. As far as the end of the recession, I feel that once the holiday season is over we will still see families struggling to pay mortgages and pay bills.
JWilliams-67
ReplyDeleteI don't think that Black Friday sales are a good sign that we are out of a recession. Remember if the amount of money that they get back in sales has doubled, then since the value of the dollar has almost dropped by half, they are still only making the same amount of money. Personally, I believe the worst is yet to come.
JWilliams67
ReplyDeleteIn Reply to Ryan H (69)
I agree. One day out of the year cannot possibly predict economic stability for the future.
Daquan F-70
ReplyDeleteThe recession hasn't gone anywhere. I believe that most people will spend their money on holidays regardless of their financial position. Many of my relatives are living off welfare, yet they still spend all their money on the holidays because it makes their family happy. There is still a great amount of people living from check to check.
In response to Meghan Williams
I agree with you, black Friday sales were so high because people having been saving their money in preparation for all the big sales on black Friday. I believe that Black Friday sales were high BECAUSE we are in a Recession. People are taking more advantage of the deals and low prices on Black Friday simply because they need them and they prepared. If we wasn't in a recession, nobody would care as much to shop on Black Friday.
Brisa L. 70
ReplyDeleteNo, I don't believe the recession is over and the breaking record sales for Black Friday proves that people are desperate in finding sales because there is no extra money leftover after paying bills, however people can save even more money other times of the year, but because of so much publicity everyone is crazy about going shopping on Black Friday.
Brisa L. 70 in response to S. Howe 70
ReplyDeleteI do agree with you S. Howe some people just buy things to have them and not because they need them, and others spend money that don't even have.
Linuel S67
ReplyDeleteI do not think we are a tthe end of the recession. I think that more sales on BF and CM are due to more people braving the crowd to save some money on the things they would be buying anyway. I go BF shoopping every year and this year there were at least double the number of people I usually see out. I don't know if this was economy related or that the stores opened at midnight this year and more people were up. I don't forsee the economy getting better until we have a different president, less government spending and several years of serious recovery.
In response to Tracey D67
It's also a tradition for us to BF shop. The closer it gets the more I look forward to it! I agree that the housing market will probably never fully recover from the forclosures. the construction business will never be the same either.
Linuel S67
Black Friday cannot be compared to the recession. Black Friday is the day when people try to get deals on items they have been needing or wanting. I don't feel that the country will every recover from the housing market or even the unemployment rate because of the fear of the unknown.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Ryan regarding the stores. The stores do a good job of advertising and lowering prices enough to still gain a profit, but convince people they are going to miss out if they do not jump on the deal. I did not go shopping because it wasn't in my budget. I have learned that sometimes what we think are deals really are not, if we have to sacrifice something else.
ReplyDeleteMaryO-70
ReplyDeleteI do not necessarily think the overwhelming sales on Black Friday mean we can see an end to the recession any time soon. I think people spend above and beyond their means and perhaps do so even to relieve some of the stress and depression they may be experiencing from the recession.
MaryO-70
ReplyDeleteIn response to Daquan F-70
I agree many people will spend above and beyond their means just because of the holiday season....even those individuals who live paycheck to paycheck.
Ryan (69)
ReplyDeleteResponse to Dalton Cash (70)
I thought the statistics you mention was interesting also. I feel it is obsurd to think that our economy is doing good when 375,000 people are drawing unemployment a week. That statistic does not account for the homeless and seasonal workers that are jobless and unable to draw unemployment.
Frank J 67
ReplyDeleteI think it comes off as looking like a plus but it is during an isolated period of the year. If this trend happened throughout the year on days that don't have knock-down-door prices, then i would say that we are coming out of the recession. People nowadays spend well beyond their means. They also try to hold on to the ability to spend for Christmas so i wouldn't be surprised if this jump in sales is a sign that most people nowadays are saving for this time of year throughout the year.
In response to everybody,
ReplyDeleteLooks like we all agree, this doesn't prove that we are coming out of the recession. Spending is only part of proof of a recession ending. If there were more jobs created, less unemployed and our nation's GDP was going up, then i would believe that we were on the up trend.
BJ C....
ReplyDeleteI don't believe that one day of record breaking sales will help our economy. I believe that it is going to be in the toilet for a while. I believe that what we see on black Friday is just a lot of desperate people trying to have some normalcy in their lives. Most of these people probably haven’t shopped all year long and this was their one day to come out and shop so I am not sure how it will make any difference. If you have awful sales all year long there is no way one day could put you in the black. I just feel that we will be in this terrible recession for a while, until we decide to stop shipping everything out of our country and bring back our own industries in the good old USA.
BJ C in response to Dalton Cash
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with you. While our unemployment rate is at its absolute highest how in the world can we fathom that one shopping day could make our economy better.
Latanya k-95
ReplyDeleteI believe the whole Cyber Monday and Black Friday are overrated. Our recession is still very much alive. I can Guarentee you that half of those merchdises that were brought will be returned back to the stores. There are some cases where we wanted an item and decided to wait for black friday or cyber monday for it to go on sale to be able to purchase it to save a few dollars. I wouldn't let the sales numbers fool you. Half of those people right now are probally wondering how they're going to pay their rent/mortgage or utility bill. Just my thoughts. Not hating in the least.
Latanya K-95 in response to Mary o-70
ReplyDeleteI agree in ref to your statement"I think people spend above and beyond their means and perhaps do so even to relieve some of the stress and depression they may be experiencing from the recession" but its like i mentioned, it always feels good to be able to shop but the aftermath is even worse. With so many people being on umenployemt or unemployeed you'd think those numbers would have been a little lower. The numbers that i'm waiting on are the estimated returns.
well i didnt join in any of those shopping days and as for the end of the recession im not sure i can agree with that over three shopping days.
ReplyDeletei think everyone just likes getting everything at a bargain and what better day to do so.
in response to Denell B-70
i couldnt agree more people have been pay check to pay check for a few years. i also agree that the holidays is a time to be thankful and to enjoy your family and friends. there really is no guarantee there will be a tomorrow!
I did not do any shopping on Black Friday, only because of all the chaos and long lines. Watching the news and seeing the long lines, scared me. I think that the recession will one day soon be over, but I do not believe it is over. People, save for Black Friday, they know that is the best time for Christmas shopping. Also,there are going to be a few that spend money that they should be saving.
ReplyDeleteSamisha S-67
ReplyDeletein response to Latanya k-95
I totally agree with you. Most people probably spent money they should not have and are behind on their bills. The other half prepared and saved for this day. A lot of people's priorities are not in order.
Porsha P-69
ReplyDeleteThe economy is getting better in my opinion because unemployment is down. Consumers are purchasing BMW and Mercedes at high rates. People also are buying more houses this year because the value of homes has dropped alot. People can save more money because they purchase a house 40 percent cheaper than they could 5 years ago. This allows people to save money and shop during black friday.
Porsha P-69
ReplyDeleteIn reference to Dalton Cash,
I agree to your statement. I saw on CNN that homes that are being taken away from previous owners are being sold just as quick to lawyers ,doctors and etc.. Many people are not making money like they use to but they are taking of advantage of buying homes for cheap prices. This helps the bank free of property space for new accounts.
Michael S -69
ReplyDeleteI dont think we are coming out of the recession at all. I believe people are hurting so bad that shopping on black friday may have been the only way they could afford there Christmas this year. I never go shopping on this day and I was tempted this year because my job is laying people off till next april after this year ends. Sales projections for next year at the rock quarry are record lows. So I'm not to positive about the turn around, although I hope and pray thats the case.
Michael S-69 in response to Rebeca G-69
ReplyDeleteI agree with rebeca many people are still out of jobs. I believe in Georgia alone we have reach record number for unemployment. The government really needs to respond to whats going on around them and stop pointing fingers and do whats right to help this country climb out of this hole we've spent our self into. Spending over our means is what has got us into this mess so its hard to believe that more spending in all the wrong places is going to help matters any. Jobs need to be created before we see any major improvements in our economy.
Megan C.
ReplyDeleteJust because people spent a ton of money during those few days, I don't believe that means that the recession is ending. Plenty of people may have used credit or saving to buy on those days. I agree with the post above. From my understanding there is still so many people without jobs. In my opinion once our unemployment numbers go down that is when we can consider the possibility of the recession ending.
I do not think record sales at peak shopping times mark the end of a recession. People are still out of a job and others struggle with poverty. But, discounts and saved funds around this time usually gets people out and shopping.
ReplyDelete