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VIDEO: Coping with tough times

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With apologies to Benjamin Franklin, there's a saying that fits these times: A dollar saved is ... not even enough for a quart of gas.

Hey, Ben didn't have to deal with regular unleaded pushing $5 a gallon, layoffs, foreclosures and a world economy gone wacky.

We do. Around the Valley and across the country, household budgets have taken a beating.

And experts worry about families that have to make painful choices.

"If a mother is worrying about whether to pay the rent, PG&E or buy the asthma inhaler, you can guess which is not going to get done — the inhaler," says Yolonda Reeves, an attorney with Central California Legal Services in Fresno.

What are we to do?

Many of us are finding smart ways to cope.

We park the gas-guzzler and buy a scooter.

We look for a second job.

We cut back on extras.

We don't let bills pile up.

We get help.

Recognizing that times are as tough as many of us have ever known, The Bee set out to find folks who are trying to make ends meet. We split our search into six categories. We talked to real people and found some tips for getting by and avoiding mistakes.

• Transportation: Two wheels are better than four — but even if you keep the car, there are ways to save money.

• Food: Sure, the best advice is to eat at home — but who has the time? Find out how to economize while eating out.

• Debt: When the bills get too high, the most prudent thing to do is get help. Here's how.

• Extra income: Before you run out of cash, find a way to make some more. We introduce you to one person who found a simple solution.

• Health: Smart consumers can save on doctor and hospital bills, even after a catastrophic illness.

• Entertainment: Families can save money on sports events, vacations and other pastimes with smart timing and options close to home.