Brandon Ballenger

I'm a freelance journalist living in South Florida. If I'm not writing, I'm playing video games or at the beach. My favorite spice is oregano, and I thought you should know. I got my bachelor's degree in English and public communication from Florida Atlantic University in 2008.

Need a Mortgage? Try Costco
Need a Mortgage? Try Costco

on November 15, 2012

The warehouse store can now help you get your own house. Their program’s already helped thousands.

The Best Day to Buy Everything This Shopping Season
The Best Day to Buy Everything This Shopping Season

on November 15, 2012

There are at least seven days where many deals beat Black Friday – maybe more, depending on what you want.

Black Friday Deals at Toys “R” Us and Sears
Black Friday Deals at Toys “R” Us and Sears

on November 15, 2012

Between the two, there are over 1,200 planned doorbuster items. Here’s a sneak peek.

How to Avoid Waiting on Hold
How to Avoid Waiting on Hold

on November 14, 2012

Companies use robots to keep you waiting for customer service. But what if you had your own robot?

Most Black Friday Items Same or Worse Than Last Year?
Most Black Friday Items Same or Worse Than Last Year?

on November 14, 2012

Retailers are “price-matching” themselves. The items in the sales ads – and how much they cost – often haven’t changed from last year’s deals.

States More Willing to Implement Healthcare Reform?
States More Willing to Implement Healthcare Reform?

on November 14, 2012

Some states put off health insurance exchange decisions until after the election. Now, they may be ready to go along.

Travel Destinations That Are Gaining Popularity
Travel Destinations That Are Gaining Popularity

on November 14, 2012

TripAdvisor says these places in the U.S. and around the world have been getting more interest and positive feedback lately. Vacation time?

How to Safely Send Secrets Online
How to Safely Send Secrets Online

on November 14, 2012

Whether it’s business documents, passwords or sexy messages, there are safer ways to transfer files online.

How to Stop Companies From Collecting and Selling Your Facebook Info
How to Stop Companies From Collecting and Selling Your Facebook Info

on November 14, 2012

Your online personal information and Internet habits are being collected and sold – possibly for more than $1,000 a year. Here’s a simple way to guard your privacy.

7UP Sued Over Antioxidant Claims
7UP Sued Over Antioxidant Claims

on November 13, 2012

Wait, you mean artificially flavored soda doesn’t contain real fruit?

The $20 Tablet That Could Ruin Microsoft
The $20 Tablet That Could Ruin Microsoft

on November 13, 2012

The cheapest tablet in the world has a processor that rivals the original iPad’s.

Daily Deals Sites Fading Fast
Daily Deals Sites Fading Fast

on November 13, 2012

They may not die out, but they’re losing popularity and seeking to add new services.

Should Black Friday Shoppers Just Sleep In?
Should Black Friday Shoppers Just Sleep In?

on November 13, 2012

Unless you’re willing to wait all night for those “doorbusters,” you may find the best deals out of stock or actually at higher prices than usual.

Could Climate Change Make Coffee Disappear?
Could Climate Change Make Coffee Disappear?

on November 13, 2012

New research suggests an environmental risk to the world’s coffee bean supply. Will your grandkids know what coffee is?

How Much the Fiscal Cliff Could Cost You
How Much the Fiscal Cliff Could Cost You

on November 12, 2012

Your tax bill might grow by hundreds next year if Congress doesn’t take action in the next few weeks.

Carry-on Bags on Spirit Airlines: Now Up to $100
Carry-on Bags on Spirit Airlines: Now Up to $100

on November 12, 2012

But you can reduce the fees before you get to the airport. Here’s how.

Companies Lay Off Workers, Cut Hours to Avoid Obamacare
Companies Lay Off Workers, Cut Hours to Avoid Obamacare

on November 12, 2012

To avoid a legal obligation to pay employee healthcare costs, employers are cutting hours – and jobs.

Bank Bailouts Didn’t Help Small Businesses
Bank Bailouts Didn’t Help Small Businesses

on November 12, 2012

Big banks that received taxpayer help after the 2008 financial meltdown have been less willing to lend than smaller banks, according to a new government study.

People Still Buying Fake Wooden iPads
People Still Buying Fake Wooden iPads

on November 12, 2012

Pro tip: Don’t buy your electronics from the trunk of a car in a retail parking lot.

The Most Expensive Election in History
The Most Expensive Election in History

on November 9, 2012

Take a look at the numbers – including what the candidates’ wives spent on their debate dresses.

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