Don't get totally spooked by the economic downturn! While thousands of jobs have been axed on Wall Street, smart folk don't just cower in a corner. Here are some non-ghostly tales of companies that launched in recessions -- and are thriving today.

If you run a business, here are some "cloves of garlic" to wear around your neck to stave off circumstances that can drain your financial lifeblood.

Americans are keeping their spirits high. Despite the economic downturn, U.S. families are expected to spend an average of $47 on candy and costumes this Halloween. And men spend more than women on the holiday, according to this retail study.

When you're alone in the dark (and confused by all the new marketing options), get NEON. Our new social media services will help bring even "dead" businesses to life!
We combine the best of traditional marketing with the best of new media solutions -- Wikis, blogs, Twitter, Facebook, and more -- and stir them up in a great big bubbling (and highly cost-effective) cauldron. You get new leads, greater online visibility, and increased revenue. (And we are not marketing bloodsuckers -- our fees are reasonable!)

Zombies aren't the only creatures who hang out together. Even in these days of "virtual connections," real people still need real, live gatherings. theONswitch BOND team creates business events that are so electifying your guests (and coffers) will tingle!

The largest pumpkin pie ever baked was in 2005 and weighed 2,020 pounds. And the British used to carve beets, rather than pumpkins. Want more? Click here.

This month, theONblog is all about the monster that lurks within us all..

And Hippy to Wiki covers "tricks and pranks" -- and how they became more heinous over time.

Eminent domain abuse is frightening. But activism is alive. theONswitch has taken it to the virtual streets! We launched an online petition-signing campaign for Nick Sprayregen, including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and other social media. Just like the radical '70s, but we're using tweets rather than picket signs. Close to 300 "protesters" emerged in less than 30 days.

Jef Campion, a local Yonkers artist, unearthed 100+ old photos. The history of Yonkers comes alive at 66main on Sunday, October 19.

Don't be in the dark when it comes to breast cancer facts. But sleep in the dark and reduce your risk. This study shows a correlation between bright light and the disease. Eclipse Curtains a great solution. (and will keep your home heating bills from scaring you this winter).

We'll all be in good spirits when we help Kohl Solutions host a "topping off" celebration for the new Kohl Industrial Park in Congers, NY (the Empire Zone). Refreshments by Carousel (of course).

The day after Halloween is Dios de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). And we've dubbed it "Day of the Dead Skin" too, as we launch the latest Oasis spa treatment -- the Inocente Citrus Margarita Body Scrub. Click here for details.

Stay up (very) late with theONswitch NEONand the Avid Group at our first ever Halloween "Blackout" party. Join us on October 31 @ 10pm in glowing in the dark ...and lighting up the lives of kids this summer. (The party is a benefit for S.C.O.P.E.)

Speaking of kids...Halloween candy doesn't change lives, but education does. Join us this month at the Yonkers Partners in Education "Join Hands for Yonkers Children" fundraiser.

The headless horseman toured the Hudson -- and so can you! Hudson Hues Fall Foliage Cruise travels up the river on November 2. Grab your favorite ghoul (or boy) and buy some tix.

Who gives you the creeps? Leatherface? Norman Bates? Or that guy in the cubicle up the aisle? We can't comment on the last option, but here are some picks for the scariest movies of all time. And movie buffs will also get the chills from Boo-ography.

Think you know everything there is to know about Pixie Stix? Take this cool Halloween candy quiz.

Need some companionship this Halloween? Mr Thrifty doesn't eat much and comes with a free set of eyeballs. A great bargain in this deathly economy!

We suspect feasting will be minimal next month, but we can always find things to be thankful for. Watch for our November "gratitude" issue.