Author: 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.
The Black Friday or Riot Quiz
Brandon Ballenger on November 23, 2012
Look at 15 pictures and guess whether the cause is civil unrest or a short supply of discount electronics.
Consumer Agency: Beware Mortgage Deception
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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?
Brandon Ballenger on November 22, 2012
UK researchers think they can uniquely identify people by their ears and walk.
GM Buys a Chunk of Ally
Brandon Ballenger on November 22, 2012
The automaker will repurchase part of what used to be GMAC. Both companies got a government bailout during the financial crisis.
Should You Get a Store Credit Card on Black Friday?
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 21, 2012
Some users of the new Microsoft operating system can get a free upgrade through January.
Phone Booths Go Digital
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 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
Brandon Ballenger on November 20, 2012
How could it be made so fast, and cheaper than the current tallest building?
Citi Users: Get a Better Price After Purchase
Brandon Ballenger on November 19, 2012
A free new program can help Citi cardholders save up to $1,000 a year on things they already bought.
Black Friday Freebies
Brandon Ballenger on November 19, 2012
The goal of Black Friday is to get people to spend a ton of money. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get free stuff.
Secrets from People With Amazing Credit Scores
Brandon Ballenger on November 19, 2012
Want to know how to get an almost-perfect score? Ask people who have them.
Don’t Panic About Twinkies
Brandon Ballenger on November 19, 2012
The brand will probably be sold to another snack-maker. And if not, there are recipes to make your own.
Ad-Tracking Critics Use Ad Trackers
Brandon Ballenger on November 19, 2012
Two popular sites concerned about online consumer privacy protections share a flaw they’re criticizing.
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