Don't espouse the idea presented in the letter "A different bailout plan" because the math is incorrect: $85 billion divided by 200 million equals only $425 dollars, not the staggering $425,000 stated by the writer.

Those who have chosen to acquire more than they can afford by racking up consumer credit, purchasing large homes with subprime loans and other mathematical blunders, need to reevaluate their thinking and come back to the basics. Buy only what you can afford. Period.

Quick handouts have never been a valid long-term solution to any financial crisis. Should you and I pay for the poor decisions of others? What about personal accountability? True there are those who are in need. The following quote rings true in this matter, "Give a man a fish he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish he eats for a lifetime." This sentiment can be applied to financial matters as well. There are many books and web sites for people to learn budgeting and financial frugality and that is where the solution lies.

•Catherine Shumway,

Orem