Free Republic

Reporting from North Fork, Calif. — Located almost in the dead center of California, North Fork is like a lot of other rural outposts: It's losing businesses and hopes for a turnaround. But there's nothing typical about the town's biggest booster, Josh Freeman. His efforts to resuscitate this tiny town include launching a local currency emblazoned with butterflies and hummingbirds in a bid to keep wealth in the community.

With the economy riding a downward-arrow, and bailout talk getting more airplay then the Beatles did when they invaded in 1964, it may be time to trek to your friendly neighborhood office supply chain and stock up on ink jet cartridges and follow the lead of two Milwaukee, Wisconsin neighborhoods – that is, if the people there decide to follow through on a plan that will have eyebrows flexing John Belushi-style.The plan?To take matters into their own hands.As they see it … When the going gets tough, the tough print their own money.Really.Funny money discussions are set to take place...