For Economy's Casualties, Franchises Offer A Brand To Build On

Bernie Howard is betting his 401(k) that his new franchise business will set him up better over the long-term than his 23-year career in the automotive industry.

The Cedar Springs man isn't regretting the gamble yet -- especially since he took his money out before the Wall Street meltdown.

"When I look at the numbers, it probably isn't that much different if I had kept the money in the 401(k)," Howard jokes.