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US national debt surges past $39 trillion just weeks into war in Iran

WASHINGTON (AP) — The national debt surpassed a record $39 trillion on Wednesday, a milestone that comes just weeks into the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran. The unprecedented figure highlights competing administration priorities, from passing a massive tax law and boosting defense spending and immigration enforcement to chipping away at the debt itself — the latter of which Donald Trump promised to do as both a candidate and as president. The Government Accountability Office outlines some of the impact of rising government debt on Americans — including higher borrowing costs for ...

Nominees for prestigious ATHENA honor named

Staff report The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber and The Vindicator continue their tradition of honoring the Valley’s accomplished women professionals when they present the 33rd annual ATHENA Award Dinner in May. Thirty-one nominees will be recognized at the ceremony. The ATHENA Award honors women who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment: those who excel in their chosen field, devote time and energy to their community in a meaningful way and open doors so that others may follow in their path. “Each year, this group of nominees reminds us how much ...

Chamber event spotlights three leaders

The Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber will recognize three Valley leaders for their contributions to business and community leadership during its annual meeting 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. April 16 at Waypoint 4180 in Canfield. The gathering is a signature opportunity to reflect on the past year’s progress, celebrate the partners helping move the Valley forward and highlight the work of the Regional Chamber throughout the year. During the event, the Chamber will present the Spirit of the Valley Award to Eric Ryan, president and CEO of JAC Management Group, and the Spirit of the Chamber ...

Iran war sends Valley gas prices soaring

Fuel prices for regular-grade gasoline jumped nearly 70 cents in the Mahoning Valley since hostilities erupted among the United States, Israel and Iran. Average diesel prices were $1.353 higher per gallon. AAA reported the average price for regular gas was $3.429 per gallon on Monday in the Youngstown-Warren region. A month ago, a gallon of the same grade was $2.735. Monday’s regional average for diesel was $4.885 compared with $3.532 during the same period. The attack by American and Israeli forces against its longtime antagonist started Feb. 28. In its dispatches Monday, the ...

Should retirement savings plans be used to fund a down payment?

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Raiding retirement savings for a down payment on a home can be tempting, especially if you’ve struggled to scrape together enough money to buy. But should you? Most 401(k) and similar retirement savings plans like Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) allow homebuyers ...