The number of individuals relying on credit cards continues to skyrocket, and as interest rates climb, that debt only gets more expensive. While paying that minimum balance might avoid late fees, that method usually leads to long-term debt. We spoke to a local financial advisor who says if you are paying down your debt but the balance isn't budging, it may come down to your payment strategy.

The Treasurer of the State of Ohio Robert Sprague announced a new revamped version of Ag-link, a program that aims to give farmers, agri-businesses, and co-ops reduced interest rates on new or existing operating loans. Those who are considered organized for profit, have headquarters and fifty-one percent of operations in Ohio, have a loan exclusively for agricultural purposes, and agree to all financial regulations, are eligible for the program.

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates by another .75, which causes prices to rise like car and student loans and credit card debt. Senator Rob Portman says if you look at the numbers the United States is already in a recession. While inflation remains at a 40-year high and everybody is feeling it even though wages have gone up slightly, the problem is that the cost of everything has gone up even higher.

Robert Sprague visited The Central District's Makerspace to meet with entrepreneurs to talk about what programs are available to them to take advantage of. The partners in The Central District say some local business owners need to be pointed in the right direction to help them take their next step, to start or expand their business.

Farmers in Ohio are getting help with the up-front costs that come with the beginning of the growing season thanks to Ohio’s State Treasurer.

Many farmers have to take loans out to buy the supplies they need to start the season like seeds, fertilizer, and fuel. Robert Sprague, the Ohio State Treasurer, says that the program “Ag-Link” will help reduce interest rates on  agricultural business operation loans.