Today's number: 20 billion

Letters, packages and other items that the U.S. Postal Service expects to deliver between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Associated Press

Today's mover

Elena Hlebiczki has joined Loren/Allen/Odioso as assistant account executive. Ms Hlebiczki will contribute to existing campaigns and serve as communication liaison between clients and the downtown Cincinnati-based firm. She graduated from Xavier University with a bachelor's degree.

Shirley Dees

Today's career tip

Thinking about taking off in a new direction or seeking a new position? asks Pam Lassiter, author of The New Job Security. First, catch a "value wave." "It's always amazing to me how many incrediblty talented people aren't aware of what they have to offer when they first start networking," she says. One way to do that is to analyze help wanted ads. Soon strengths will emerge. "Pick out your top five favorite strengths and then begin to structure a network."

John Eckberg

Today's money tip

Don't buy shares of companies that you don't understand. Before you put any money in a company, make sure you know what the company is and how it makes its money. Also make sure you read and understand its financial statements (10-Qs and 10-Ks). For example, analysts now say they could have predicted Enron Corp.'s downfall because its complicated statements were beyond normal comprehension.

Amy Higgins

Today's company: Funhouse LPG Co. Inc.

New Playground: Kenner Products veteran Greg Doherty started his self-described "small and humble" toy company in 2001. The enterprise employs 16 people with experience at such major toy manufacturers as Hasbro, Kenner and Mattel. FunHouse produced its first merchandise this past summer and sells online at www.funhousecompany.com. A few of its products are available at Johnny's Toys in Covington.

Action-Packed Lineup: Among the new company's product lines are Jetforce military vehicles and dart blasters, Dragon Master collectible figures and games, Princess Butterfly small action dolls, Happy Mugs sip-cups and Cap'n Crunch action figures and accessories.

Under The Tree: FunHouse is donating 2002 toys to the annual Toys for Tots campaign operated by the U.S. Marine Corps. The items will be distributed to needy children throughout the Greater Cincinnati area prior to Christmas.

Jenny Callison