Latest news with #BalancingAct
Epoch Times
06-05-2025
- Business
- Epoch Times
Wage Growth Outpaces Inflation, but Economic Challenges Remain
Recent economic data show that cumulative wage gains have finally surpassed the sharp rise in consumer prices that has plagued the economy for several years. This milestone marks the first time since the inflation surge began that American households have experienced real income growth after accounting for higher prices. The crossover point comes after nearly two years of persistent inflation that eroded purchasing power for millions of Americans. Workers have seen their paychecks stretch further in recent months as wage growth continues, while inflation has gradually cooled from its peak levels. However, economists and financial analysts warn that this positive development does not necessarily signal the end of economic hardships for many households. The gains remain uneven across income brackets, industries, and geographic regions. The Long Road to Recovery The journey to this point has been difficult for American consumers. Following the pandemic-era economic disruptions, inflation surged to levels not seen in four decades, peaking above 9 percent in mid-2022. During this period, nominal wage increases—substantial by historical standards—failed to keep pace with rapidly rising prices. Labor Department statistics indicate that the average worker is now slightly ahead in the race between earnings and expenses. This represents a meaningful shift from the negative real wage growth that characterized much of 2021 and 2022. 'This is technically good news, but we need to put it in proper context,' explains one economic analyst who studies consumer spending patterns. Many households depleted savings or took on debt during the high-inflation period, so they're not necessarily feeling financial relief yet. Uneven Distribution of Gains The aggregate data masks significant disparities in how different groups have fared. Workers in high-demand sectors like technology and healthcare have generally seen more substantial wage increases, while those in service industries and retail have experienced more modest gains. Regional differences also play a role. Workers in metropolitan areas with competitive labor markets have generally fared better than those in rural regions. Additionally, lower-income households typically spend a larger percentage of their budgets on necessities like food, housing, and transportation—categories that saw some of the most dramatic price increases. Related Stories 5/5/2025 4/29/2025 Key factors affecting household financial health include: Prior savings depletion during high-inflation periods Accumulated credit card and other consumer debt Housing costs that continue to rise in many markets Ongoing price volatility in essential categories like food The Federal Reserve's Balancing Act The Federal Reserve has been overseeing wage growth as it determines its next moves on interest rates. While the central bank wants to see workers benefit from a strong labor market, it remains concerned that excessive wage growth could fuel another round of inflation. Recent statements from Fed officials suggest they view the current pace of wage increases as sustainable and not inherently inflationary. This perspective has contributed to market expectations that the Fed may begin cutting interest rates in the coming months. 'The Fed is in a difficult position,' notes a financial market observer. They need to ensure inflation stays contained without unnecessarily restricting economic growth that could lead to more wage gains for workers. Consumer sentiment surveys show Americans remain cautious about their financial futures despite the positive wage data. Many households report feeling that they are still catching up rather than getting ahead financially. As the economy continues to evolve post-pandemic, the relationship between wages and prices will remain a critical indicator of household financial health. While the current data represents progress, most economists agree that sustained periods of wage growth exceeding inflation will be necessary before most Americans feel genuine financial improvement. By John Rampton The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Edmonds schools to cut 12 full-time employees in response to $8.5M shortfall
This story was originally published on The Edmonds School District will be cutting a dozen full-time employees, My Edmonds News reported Wednesday. According to The Everett Herald, the Edmonds School Board approved a reduced education program at its meeting Tuesday—terminating up to 12 staff positions. The cuts are in response to an $8.5 million budget deficit for the 2025-26 school year, which KIRO 7 reported is on top of a $25 million shortfall over the past two years. My Edmonds News stated the district must notify the impacted staff by May 15. 'It's unfortunate that we do have to subject some people to this (reduction in force) process, but it is something that we do go through annually at different scales,' Rob Baumgartner, assistant superintendent of human resources, said at Tuesday's meeting, as reported by The Everett Herald. Andi Nofziger-Meadows, president of the Edmonds Education Association, blames the cuts on lawmakers, according to KIRO 7. 'The state is bankrupting Edmonds and just about every other school district in the state,' Nofziger-Meadows said, reported the media outlet. 'We're all on the march to bankruptcy. Some of us will get there in a year or two, others might take three or four years – but we are all teetering on the brink of being insolvent.' The district previously launched a 'Balancing Act' survey asking residents and families of students to weigh in on possible spending cuts and revenue increases. 'How can the school district be expected to decrease the budget when the price of everything else is inflating and continues to inflate?' one respondent asked. 'Do we need to go down to a four-day school week?' The most supported cut was eliminating elementary student intervention coordinators, saving $1.1 million. Follow Julia Dallas on X. Read her stories here. Submit news tips here.
Yahoo
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What Does The Valley Cast Do for a Living? Details on Their Jobs
Get ready to head back to the suburbs because The Valley Season 2 premieres on Bravo on April 15. Season 1 cast members Jax Taylor, Brittany Cartwright, Kristen Doute, Luke Broderick, Daniel "Danny" Booko, Nia Booko, Michelle Saniei Lally, Jesse Lally, Jason Caperna, Janet Caperna, Jasmine Goode, and Zack Wickham are all back to stir things up. Ahead of the sophomore season's debut, find out what the suburbanites do for a living outside of the show. Brittany Breaks Down Over Jax Divorce in The Valley Season 2 Trailer: "He Has People Watching" See Why Jax Taylor Is Calling Out Tom Schwartz in The Valley After Show First Look (EXCLUSIVE) Bravo's Spring 2025 Schedule: All Shows and Premiere Dates When viewers first met Jax on Vanderpump Rules, he was bartending at SUR and doing modeling gigs on the side. Today, in addition to being a part owner of his bar, Jax's Studio City, he also hosts a podcast called In the Mind of a Man with Jax Taylor. The mom of one is the host of her own podcast, When Reality Hits with Brittany Cartwright. Though she was also preparing to open a bar, Britt's WeHo, she confirmed that the plans fell through in early April. Like Jax, Jesse also has a background in modeling. He now works as a luxury real estate agent for The Beverly Hills Estates. Isabella Bunny Lally's mom is also a luxury real estate agent for The Beverly Hills Estates. She launched her podcast, Pursuit of Sassiness, in March 2025. Kristen and Luke co-host the Balancing Act with Kristen Doute and Luke Broderick podcast, and she has a t-shirt line called James Mae. Luke co-hosts Balancing Act with Kristen Doute and Luke Broderick. Janet previously worked as an Executive Assistant, and she's a mom to her and Jason's son, Cameron Caperna. Jason is an attorney and partner at Acumen Law, LLP, a worker's compensation firm in Glendale, California. Danny is an actor who has appeared on screen, and who now does a lot of voiceover work. His previous TV credits include iCarly, Hannah Montana, Desperate Housewives, Shameless, and The Goldbergs. As for his movie career, Danny has also popped up in The Blind Side, X-Men: First Class,The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part One, Silver Linings Playbook, The Fault in Our Stars, Fantastic Four, and Deadpool. Nia, whose maiden name is Sanchez, won the title of Miss USA in 2014. She was the runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant later that year. She and Danny share three children together, Asher, Isabelle, and Zariah. Nia is currently expecting the couple's fourth child as well. The Valley friend is a freelance communications and social media expert who previously worked as an executive assistant. Jasmine was a professional dancer and NFL cheerleader, and she actually worked as a waitress at Lisa Vanderpump's restaurant, SUR. Before The Valley, Jasmine was also a contestant on Nick Viall's season of The Bachelor. Like Michelle and Jesse, Jasmine also does real estate. Several of The Valley cast members have gotten undergraduate and graduate degrees. Jax attended Michigan State University and community college, but he dropped out to join the Navy. His estranged wife, Brittany, studied nursing at Eastern Kentucky University. Zack went to the University of Louisville for his undergraduate degree, and he got his MBA from Bellarmine University. Jasmine went to Howard University, while Michelle attended California State University San Marcos. Jesse studied at both Norwich University and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and Jason went to Boston College for his undergraduate degree. He obtained his JD from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles. Janet went to Ohio University, while Danny attended North Park University. Find out what else to expect from The Valley Season 2.
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Facing an $8.5M shortfall, Edmonds schools face cuts and layoffs
This story was originally posted on The Edmonds School Board is considering cuts to staff and student programs as the district faces an $8.5 million budget shortfall for the 2025-26 school year. According to The Everett Herald, the board will review a proposed reduced education plan that includes job cuts on Tuesday. Officials said additional staff reductions could follow when the final budget is approved in July. To get community feedback, the district launched a 'Balancing Act' survey asking residents and families of students to weigh in on possible spending cuts and revenue increases. The survey received 1,165 responses and nearly 100 pages of feedback. Edmonds school district faces $8.5M shortfall 'How can the school district be expected to decrease the budget when the price of everything else is inflating and continues to inflate?' one respondent asked. 'Do we need to go down to a four-day school week?' Favored by 88.2% of respondents, the most supported cut was eliminating elementary student intervention coordinators, saving $1.1 million. Though smaller than recent years—$15 million in 2023-24 and $10.6 million last year—the deficit could still shrink or grow depending on state funding decisions. A bill to increase special education funding could reduce the shortfall. The legislative session ends on April 27.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Old Rochester Regional Junior High School student wins Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
MATTAPOISETT — An eighth-grader at Old Rochester Regional Junior High School has been awarded a Silver Key in the prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, according to a community announcement. Sophie Zhou, an eighth-grade student, was recognized in the Drawing & Illustration category for her piece, 'Balancing Act.' The self-portrait depicts a girl in a yellow shirt balancing three books on her head. 'This piece in particular was one where I was experimenting with colors. It is a self-portrait in which I tried to utilize every color in the rainbow while coloring the skin,' Zhou said. 'I also experimented with posture and drawing how gravity affected the books on my head. I was inspired by the symbolism of consuming knowledge, balance, and fragility.' The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, dating back to 1923, is the nation's longest-running recognition program for creative teens, rewarding outstanding achievements by students in grades 7-12. This year, the Massachusetts region received nearly 8,000 individual art entries, awarding 730 Silver Keys and 1,330 Honorable Mentions. Zhou, whose love for drawing began before she started school, said she was surprised and grateful for the award. 'When I got the email that awards had been given, I set it aside until later that day because I did not expect anything,' Zhou said. 'When I checked and found out that I had been awarded a silver key, I was shocked. My main reaction was along the lines of, 'No way!' It felt really rewarding to be recognized for my art.' Superintendent Michael S. Nelson commended Zhou for her achievement, emphasizing the dedication and creativity required to stand out in such a competitive field. 'Sophie's recognition in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is a reflection of her talent, hard work, and passion for artistic expression,' Nelson said. 'We are incredibly proud of her for earning this honor, and we celebrate the creativity she brings to our school community.' Principal Silas Coellner also praised Zhou's accomplishment and the importance of artistic opportunities for students. 'Sophie's artwork demonstrates both technical skill and a unique artistic voice, and we are thrilled to see her talent recognized at such a high level,' Coellner said. 'The arts play a vital role in education, fostering creativity and self-expression, and we are proud to support our students as they pursue their passions.' Zhou and other Silver Key recipients from across the state have been invited to an awards ceremony at Cohen Auditorium on the Tufts Medford Campus on Sunday, March 16. For more information about the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards and to see the full list of winners, visit the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards of Massachusetts website. This story was created by reporter Beth McDermott, bmcdermott1@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more. This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Local student wins Silver Key in Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
