Bernie Madoff, housing bubble: Costume suggestions for a recession Halloween

Reeling from sticker shock over the price of elaborate shovel-ready Halloween costumes this year? We feel your pain, so we brainstormed some topical, frugal make-it-yourself alternatives to turn your fright night into a delight night.

1. The Bernie Madoff pyramid. With a little cardboard and green paint, you can create your own walking pyramid scheme. Carefully trim off the point of the pyramid to wear as a hat. Remember to tell the candy giver that for every piece of chocolate they give you, they'll get 10 back within the year.

2. For Californians only -- make a large cardboard sign to wear around your neck that reads "IOU one Halloween costume -- signed Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger"

3. Visit the junk yard and grab a few light car parts, the rustier the better. Tie a couple of old car headlights to a length of string and hang it around your neck. Attach the rest of the car parts to your body. Now you're dressed as a clunker, ready to receive some delicious government cash.