The Great REcession?

"Unemployment jumps to a 26-year high of 9.7%" according to Chris Isidore of CNNMoney.com.  As the recession continues, jobless America continues to expand its population.  Hours and wages are being reduced in many cases as business slows.  Other companies burden their salaried employees with a longer work week as the employees assume the workload of recent lay-offs.   Many people have filed for unemployment and have been living on their savings.  However, those ineligible for unemployment and/or without savings are greatly affected by the economic downturn. 

How has the recession affected you?