News 12 @ 6 o'clock -- September 30, 2008

AUGUSTA, GA-- In the recent hard economic times Senior Financial Adviser Will Rogers says he's been getting calls at home and his office from clients panicking.

"They want to know what the future holds and so we try to look into this crystal ball and see what the future has. Crystal balls work as good as they've always have. We don't know for certain what the future has," said Will Rogers.

Just one day after the stock market fell hundreds of points and Citigroup bought Wachovia -- rogers says everyone should just relax.

"Most folks should take a deep breath -- ahh -- be patient. Wachovia used to be First Union, banks being bought out is nothing new," said Rogers.

People are even going to the extremes by tapping into retirement.

Rogers advises not to go into that 401k to pay off debt but instead use your regular cash flow to pay if off and build your credit.

"If you're in your 30's or 40's, you should have plenty of time to ride this out. If you're in your late 50's or 60's, you probably shouldn't have that much in stocks," said Rogers.

Rogers says even though the times are hard and the money's tight -- everyone should calm down and wait it out.

"Yea, it's tough right now, but things will work and panicking can hurt you, so don't panic folks," said Rogers.

Rogers says if you have FDIC backed accounts, they're strong and you'll be okay.

For those dealing with a lot of money in the market, Rogers says you should look at your risk assessment. If you can afford to stay in the market, do it but if you can't it may be in your best interest to get out.