Sunday, June 14, 2009, 2:58 PM
Atlanta, Sunday Paper News, Stop the Presses
By Kevin Moreau

Looking for a new columnist. Is it you?

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably sick to death of hearing about the recession. We all know it’s out there. Whether struggling to find a job or reasonably secure in a well-paying position—or, like most of us, somewhere in the vast, amorphous middle—we’re all feeling its effects in some form or fashion. 

Businesses are closing their doors. Retirement accounts are dwindling down to scraps. It’s not like we need any more reminders that the economy looks like it just went 12 rounds with Mike Tyson.

So I hope you’ll forgive me for broaching the subject. And, for what it’s worth, some experts are crossing their fingers that the worst is behind us. The USA Today/IHS Global Insight economic index suggests that the recession could end by September, followed by a mild recovery, the paper reported last week.

Of course, not everyone agrees that we’re out of the woods yet, or even that we’ve found the path leading out of the forest. 

We’re not in any immediate danger of the recession coming to a screeching halt, with a gaggle of economists and stockbrokers unfurling a “Mission Accomplished” banner on the deck of an aircraft carrier. But even if the economy starts looking like Tyson only slapped it around a little, it’s going to be sporting some serious bruises for the foreseeable future.

Which is why The Sunday Paper is looking for a new recession columnist. And because I believe there’s nothing like advice from regular Joes and Janes to help other Joes and Janes navigate the turbulent financial landscape, we’re opening that search up to the public.

In short, I want to hear from you. Whether you’ve got an eye for hot deals or a passion for pointing out scams, rip-offs and bad investments—whether you’re an aspiring Clark Howard or just a really savvy shopper—I invite you to send in your pitch for a regular freelance column or feature on ways to survive in the current economic climate. 

Bonus points for creativity, and for being able to string words together in a clear and concise manner. If you can make fiscal responsibility, bargain-hunting or investment advice sound fun and engaging in the process, so much the better. (You might have heard that the newspaper industry is feeling the pinch more than most, which means we’re also looking for someone willing to work relatively cheap.)

If you’re interested, drop me a line at kevinmoreau@sundaypaper.com. (No phone calls, please.) Meanwhile, here’s hoping “the R word’ isn’t treating you and yours like Iron Mike’s sparring partner. Be good, and be safe.