Signs that the economy is bad, October 14, 2011

I wish I could say that I am finding some good light pieces like I used to when I started this semi-regular feature, but the economy is not getting better. If anything, given the oligarchs who insist on pretty much squeezing everyone else for yet a dollar more, and the rest of us, signs are becoming serious. However, I will continue to search for the subtle, and at times not so subtle signs, that the economy is bad. Someone has to do it because we cannot just stay silent about this. Something has to happen. Maybe presenting the signs and evidence is a small start.

• Colleges are moving to sell off their campus radio stations. Another case of colleges strapped for cash looking to make a quick buck at the expense of something that does benefit students and often gives them a unique voice. Basically, these campuses are selling learning opportunities and silencing student voices to get a few bucks. (via USA Today). 
• The 99 Cents Only Chain was recently sold.  I am sure a lot of people may say, "so what?" Well, look at who is making profits in the deal, and how they are making said profits. This is basically a chain that caters to the poor, though they are increasingly catering to middle class struggling to find a cheaper deal. That the chain, and others like it, are making more sales in things like groceries is certainly a sign that things are going from bad to worse. FTA: "The majority of the country is suffering in a bleak economic climate with high unemployment and scraping by as they hunt for the cheapest possible way to get food on the table, and the discount retailers and Wall Street are all too ready to capitalize on the desperation." Via Current TV. 
• A new report states that "nearly one in four U.S. households with children struggled to afford enough food for themselves and their families in 2010." In a way, this is not really news. It is pretty common knowledge by now that feeding a household is getting more difficult. This is just more evidence. Via the Food Research and Action Center, and a hat tip to Full Text Reports.  This is one of those things that always gets me: in a nation that is so wealthy as the U.S., they allow children to go hungry on a regular basis.