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Recession Briefing 8.13: Fed Says Recession Almost Over

What you need to know today to survive and thrive in the recession.

JetBlue is planning to offer an “all-you-can-jet” pass for $599 in which passengers can book an unlimited amount of flights within a one-month span. (CNN/Money)

The Federal Rerserve says the recession looks to be coming to a close, and so it’s starting to return to business as usual. (NY Times)

The French and German economies both grew by 0.3% between April and June, bringing to an end year-long recessions in Europe’s largest economies. (BBC)

Thanks to the downturn, Americans are finally learning to use credit cards more responsibly. (Recessionwire)

Florida’s gator hunters are hurting as demand for high-end alligator skin purses, wallets, and belts has slackened due to the recession. (Tampa Tribune)

Should a college pay when a grad can’t find a job? Monroe College should, writes Mark Gimein. (The Big Money)

When it comes to the “Cash for Clunkers” program’s twin goals of stimulating the economy and reducing emissions, the results, many say, are mixed. (U.S. News & World Report)

Once unabashedly focused on the perks of wealth and fame, a spate of new “chick lit” is tackling the recession and its attendant woes. (New York Times)

Anxious workplace investors are easing back into their 401(k) plans, and many companies that have slashed 401(k) benefits plan to reverse those cuts within the next six months. (Wall Street Journal)

Debit card use was growing rapidly before the economy tanked, but the recession appears to have made them the preferred form of plastic. (Associated Press)

Even as the ranks of unemployed and underemployed have grown, career counselors, therapists and other experts say a certain segment is determined to suffer in silence, keeping details of job losses and financial pressure secret from all but close family and friends. (Washington Post)

Median home prices fell a record 15.6% during the three months ended June 30, compared to the same period in 2008. (CNN/Money)

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Tags: Cars, downturnaround, economy, education, jobs, travel