Retail bloodbath

Many companies are declaring bankruptcy. Who would've expected that the company owned stores of chains like Bennigan's or Steak and Ale would be closed without a reorganization plan? Today's Baltimore Sun reports that Reading, PA-based Boscov's has declared bankruptcy. Nearby York, PA-based Bon-Ton Stores has problems too. Sharper Image, Linens-n-Things, etc. See "Boscov's in bankruptcy."

Michele Wolf, 44, a nursing assistant from Pasadena, stocked up on pillows and other items her two sons will need at college this fall at the Boscov's at Marley Station Mall. (Sun photo by Amy Davis / August 4, 2008)

The International Herald-Tribune has an interesting AP story about people living simpler not having financial problems, in "Living simply provides economic shelter." (There is a co-housing development in Takoma DC, a couple blocks from the subway station.)