Credit card rates rise
Banks across the country having been raising interest rates on credit cards ahead of new federal regulations that go into affect in February. Fifty percent of Americans have had their credit card interest rate increased in the past six months, according to a Rasmussen report.
Federal Reserve strengthens overdraft fee rules
Earlier this month, the Federal Reserve announced that starting July 1, banks cannot charge new customers overdraft fees unless a customer gives their consent. Currently, many customers have to opt out of overdraft fee programs or are hit with hefty fines when they have insufficient funds in their accounts.
State cuts reach private schools
Cuts to state financial aid programs for higher education in Massachusetts and neighboring states have even had an impact on private colleges and their students.
Green is the new black
Earlier this year, President Barack Obama included $80 billion in his federal stimulus package for greater energy efficiency and cleaner technologies. Currently, Congress is halfway toward passing a bill to cap greenhouse gas emissions. Much like what is taking place in the political sphere, green initiatives are now in vogue in the fashion industry.
Meshing Around
Kate Vander Wiede places her bare feet on the slackline suspended a few feet off the ground between two large trees in a park in the South End. She stands up on the line with her hands over her head for balance, and spectators gather in awe.
