Brandon Ballenger Writer

I'm a freelance writer based in Pompano Beach, Fla. who's done work for The South Florida Business Journal and BusinessMiami, covering real estate, health care, and franchising. I received a bachelor's degree in English and public communication from Florida Atlantic University in 2008, and am currently pursuing a master's degree in communication there. In my free time, I read fantasy novels, plays video games, and take advantage of South Florida's perennial summer at the beach.
Posts by Brandon Ballenger

Consumer Agency: Beware Mortgage Deception
Nov 22, 2012 - The government is warning lenders about misleading seniors and veterans, and consumers to watch out for these signs of trouble.

The U.S. Budget Deficit is Shrinking
Nov 22, 2012 - Since 2010, government spending and revenue have turned around at levels not seen since World War II. So what's with the "fiscal cliff"?

Identity Scans – With Ears?
Nov 22, 2012 - UK researchers think they can uniquely identify people by their ears and walk.

GM Buys a Chunk of Ally
Nov 22, 2012 - The automaker will repurchase part of what used to be GMAC. Both companies got a government bailout during the financial crisis.

Thanksgiving Food Dangerous to Dogs
Nov 22, 2012 - Here are eight things that could give your pet a holiday trip to the hospital. Be careful.

Should You Get a Store Credit Card on Black Friday?
Nov 21, 2012 - In some stores, they can get you a nice discount and out of lines quicker. But they can have bigger implications for your credit.

Study: Pot Psychosis May Be Genetic
Nov 21, 2012 - Marijuana use may be a risk factor in developing schizophrenia and psychotic disorders for people with a certain gene, according to new research.

Free Media Center Upgrade for Windows 8 Pro Users
Nov 21, 2012 - Some users of the new Microsoft operating system can get a free upgrade through January.

Phone Booths Go Digital
Nov 21, 2012 - Pay phones are being replaced with digital screens that provide local business deals, public information, and directions.

Most Black Friday Shoppers Buy for Themselves
Nov 21, 2012 - "Oh, wow, how sweet of me! I shouldn't have!" More than half of Americans will spend an average of $140 on "presents" for themselves this shopping season.

Where the Most Germs Are in Restaurants
Nov 20, 2012 - Neither the bathroom nor the kitchen top the list. But three items in this picture are on it.

Gift Card Fees and Limits Explained
Nov 20, 2012 - Find out how much you can put on certain gift cards, what the fees are, if and when they expire, and more.
Company Pays Employees to Date Each Other
Nov 20, 2012 - They're not only OK with office dating, they'll pay a bonus for it. Even if you date someone from a rival company.

Some Mannequins Have Secret Cameras
Nov 20, 2012 - A few fashion brands are spying on customers through their clothing displays.

China Plans to Erect World’s Tallest Skyscraper in 3 Months
Nov 20, 2012 - How could it be made so fast, and cheaper than the current tallest building?