This weekend, I attended Communiversity 2010 in Princeton, New Jersey, an annual arts festival in town and on campus organized by the Arts Council of Princeton. The highlights included several collegiate a cappella performances and a Beatles tribute band. Look for a photograph of the Deaftones of Westminster Choir College, one of the a cappella groups performing on the Princeton University campus, a bit farther down in this article.

Here are some articles from other websites I enjoyed reading recently.

Cuts to Education and Teachers Salaries: Voting Day at Rainy Day Saver. Earlier this week, many residents of New Jersey voted to approve or reject their school district operating budget. Schools in this state are receiving less federal funding, less state funding, and are in danger of receiving less funding through property taxes. The crunch is making everyone a bit on edge. Most public schools are significantly underfunded, and the discussion will usually lead to salaries of administrative positions (such as principal and superintendent) and long-time teachers, often earning over $100,000 a year with better-than-average benefits.

I agree that the tenure system makes it difficult to eliminate teachers who no longer have any interest in doing in their jobs, just waiting patiently until they can retire and receive a pension. As a result of seniority rules and budget cutbacks, the teachers who may be eliminated might be younger, enthusiastic, and successful teachers rather than those more experienced but less effective. In addition, educational and extra-curriculuar programs important to the development of capable young adults will be eliminated.

8 Simple Steps of Having an Organized Life at Money Funk. At thirty-four years of age, I’ve accepted one weakness: organization. I make minor improvements to my ability to live an organized life, but after many attempts at major reform, I’ve come to accept who I am. Organization tips makes sense to me, and in theory they should be helpful. There are times when I believe time is better spent working on and cultivating our strengths than frustrating ourselves trying to improve a weakness whose improvement has limited benefits.

Regarless of Your Financial Situation, Don’t Forget to Be Happy, by Evan’s wife at My Journey to Millions. Don’t forget to look beyond money at the bigger picture. If you’re in a difficult financial situation, and you’re aware that you’re in that situation, being happy could be the last thing on your mind. Happiness is simply a choice. There is only so much in the world that you can control. While you can control a significant portion of your life, there are limits. What you can control is your reaction to those things you cannot control, so choose to react by being happy.

Finally, I’m sharing a programming note. Consumerism Commentary is participating in the Yakezie Challenge, a network of bloggers spearheaded by Financial Samurai, working together to bring their websites to the next level. I’m looking forward to working more closely with motivating colleagues. We introduced Sam from Financial Samurai to Consumerism Commentary in an episode of the Podcast.

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