News You Can Use • August 2024 • Everyday Cheapskate

As we dive into the heart of summer, we’re bringing you a delightful mix of news that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze. From quirky updates that’ll tickle your funny bone to tips and trends that’ll help you save a few bucks and keep your life running smoothly, we’ve got it all covered. So grab a cup of your favorite brew, settle in, and enjoy the latest happenings with a side of fun!

Most Recent Top News Articles

Don’t Demo Your ’90s Wood Kitchen—It Might Be Back in Style, According to Designers

If your kitchen features honey-colored or maple-hued cabinetry from the late ’90s, you might be in luck. Designers are seeing a resurgence in interest for these warm wood tones, which are now being embraced for their nostalgic charm and practicality. This article offers tips on how to update your wooden kitchen without a full renovation. From modernizing hardware and integrating open shelving to using grounding neutral colors, you can refresh your space while keeping the classic wood elements intact. Read more →

Continental Recalls 146,000 Tires Due to Safety Risk

Continental Tire the Americas is recalling over 146,000 ProContact GX AO tires, size 255/35R19, due to a potential risk of belt separation caused by excessive heat buildup. This defect significantly increases the risk of a crash. If you own these tires, Continental will replace them free of charge. Look out for owner notification letters arriving by October 7, 2024, and contact Continental customer service at 1-888-799-2168 for more information. You can also reach the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.nhtsa.gov for further details. Read more →

Consumers Push Back Against Price Hikes, Leading to Inflation Slowdown

As inflation pressures persist, American consumers are pushing back by opting for store brands, buying used cars, and avoiding high-priced items. This shift is forcing companies to slow their price increases. With grocery and consumer goods companies facing reduced sales, some have started to moderate their pricing strategies. The growing consumer resistance to high prices is contributing to a slowdown in inflation, which has dropped significantly from a peak of 9.1% in 2022 to 3.1%. This consumer-driven shift in spending habits is expected to further cool inflation rates. Read more →

Colorado Residents Hunt for Hidden Cash with Social Media Sensation

A mysterious social media account, Miracle Man Cash, has captivated over 60,000 followers in just one month by hiding cash around the Denver metro area. The account, featuring only a hand placing $30 to $50 in various locations, shares brief videos with clues, leading followers on a treasure hunt across Colorado. From parks to parking lots, locations have included cities like Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs. The viral phenomenon continues to spark excitement as residents race to find the hidden money. Read more →

How Switching to a Flip Phone Transformed My Well-Being

Feeling frustrated by the constant pull of my smartphone, I made the switch to a flip phone, and it’s been a game-changer for my mental well-being. Stripping away distractions like social media and apps, I found myself more connected to the people around me, enjoying deeper conversations and a richer internal life. While some modern conveniences still require a smartphone, the benefits of living with a flip phone far outweigh the minor frustrations. It’s a simpler, more present way of living that I highly recommend. Read more →

How to Check if Your Information Was Compromised in the Social Security Number Breach

The recent data breach at National Public Data (NPD) has potentially exposed millions of social security numbers and personal information. This article guides you on how to check if your information was compromised and what steps to take if you were affected. With a free tool from cybersecurity firm Pentester, you can search for your information in the leaked records. Experts also recommend freezing your credit, setting up account alerts, and being vigilant about your financial activities to protect against identity theft. Read more →

Subway’s $6.99 Footlong Deal Joins the Fast Food Value Menu Wars

Subway is rolling out a limited-time offer, selling any footlong sandwich for just $6.99 through its app or website using the code “699FL.” This deal, available from August 26 to September 8, aims to attract customers as fast food prices rise. With some footlongs typically costing up to $14, this offer is a significant discount. Subway is also expanding its menu with lower-priced options like $3 Dippers and Sidekick snacks to appeal to budget-conscious diners. Read more →

Sea Lions Take Over Monterey’s San Carlos Beach, Prompting Closure

Hundreds of sea lions have taken over San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California, leading local officials to close the popular tourist spot. Despite caution tape, crowds continue to gather, snapping photos of the marine mammals as they rest and play. Marine biologists suggest that the sea lions, primarily males, may be drawn to the beach by the rich food supply in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The sea lions are expected to stay for several weeks, and residents are reminded to keep their distance due to protections under the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act. Read more →

Free COVID-19 Tests to Be Mailed Starting Late September

In response to a summer surge in COVID-19 cases, the U.S. government will soon allow households to order up to four free COVID-19 test kits by mail starting in late September. The tests, available through COVIDtests.gov, will help detect current virus strains as families prepare for the holiday season. This initiative follows the approval of an updated COVID-19 vaccine aimed at combating recent strains. With vaccine uptake declining, the program aims to ensure accessible testing for all. Read more →

August Supermoon: The Start of Four Months of Lunar Magic

Get ready for a celestial treat! August’s supermoon marks the beginning of a spectacular lunar lineup, with four supermoons lighting up the sky over the next four months. Starting Monday, the moon will appear slightly larger and brighter as it comes closer to Earth. Don’t miss this chance to marvel at our natural satellite and learn more about what makes a moon “super.” Read more →

Freeze Your Credit for Free: A Smart Move for Financial Security

Protecting your credit from fraud and identity theft is crucial in today’s digital age. Freezing your credit can prevent thieves from opening new accounts in your name without affecting your credit score. Learn how to easily place a freeze with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, and discover additional steps to safeguard your personal information. With breaches on the rise, this simple tool is a powerful way to maintain your financial health. Read more →

Urgent Warning: 51 Million Cars with Dangerous Airbags Under Review

The NHTSA has issued a critical warning about potentially deadly airbags in up to 51 million vehicles. The airbags, manufactured by ARC Automotive Inc. and Delphi Automotive Systems LLC, have been linked to serious safety defects similar to the infamous Takata inflators. The NHTSA is pressuring manufacturers for a recall as investigations reveal the risk of explosions and metal fragments. Stay informed about the latest safety concerns and potential impacts on your vehicle. Read more →

Rising Costs: CBS News Price Tracker Reveals Inflation’s Impact on Your Wallet

CBS News has updated its price tracker to show how inflation is affecting everyday expenses. From groceries to utilities and housing, see how prices have shifted from before the pandemic to now. The tracker uses comprehensive data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Zillow, providing a clear picture of rising costs across various sectors. Dive into the details of this crucial update. Read more →

How I Spend Less Than $40 a Week on Food in NYC: The Secret’s in the Dumplings

Living in New York City on a budget is no easy feat, especially for a college student. But one savvy intern has managed to spend less than $40 a week on food by embracing a simple yet delicious staple: frozen dumplings. By pairing them with affordable sides and being mindful of other meal choices, she’s found a way to save big while still enjoying life in the city. Learn her tips and tricks for stretching your food budget without sacrificing flavor. Read more →

LA’s Bold Plan for the 2028 Olympics: ‘No Car Games’ to Combat Gridlock

Los Angeles is gearing up for the 2028 Olympics with a unique plan to tackle the city’s notorious traffic: the “No Car Games.” Organizers, led by Mayor Karen Bass, intend to enforce the use of public transportation for all spectators and encourage remote working to reduce congestion. By expanding the city’s transit system and borrowing over 3,000 buses, the initiative aims to avoid the traffic woes that could plague the event. With a nod to the success of similar strategies during the 1984 Olympics, LA hopes to make history again in 2028. Read more →

Welcome to the AI Price-Fixing Dystopia: How Algorithms Are Quietly Redefining Free Markets

A growing number of lawsuits allege that AI-driven tools like RealPage are enabling a new form of price-fixing, where landlords and businesses across various industries use algorithms to coordinate and raise prices, bypassing traditional competitive practices. This shift could usher in an era where pricing is controlled by algorithms rather than market competition, leading to higher costs for consumers and potential stagnation in economic growth. The implications are vast, and current antitrust laws may not be prepared to address these new challenges. Read more →

Community Rallies to Save Local Grocery Store Amid Struggles

The Erie Market, a city-owned grocery store in a small town, faces the threat of closure due to financial difficulties. Despite initial controversy over the city council’s decision to purchase the store, the new mayor and dedicated staff are determined to revitalize it. The community has come together, donating money and volunteering to keep the market afloat. With an upcoming open house, the mayor hopes to showcase improvements and inspire more residents to support their local store. The survival of Erie Market is crucial for the town’s future. Read more →

Boar’s Head Expands Recall: 7 Million Pounds of Deli Meat Pulled Over Listeria Fears

Boar’s Head has expanded its recall to include 7 million pounds of deli meat and poultry products due to a deadly listeria outbreak affecting 13 states. With 34 confirmed cases, 33 hospitalizations, and two deaths, the recall now covers 71 products produced from May to July 2024. Consumers are urged to discard or return affected items and clean refrigerators to prevent contamination. The company has paused operations at the impacted facility and is cooperating with federal and state investigations. Read more →

Big Lots Announces Major Store Closures: Up to 315 Locations Affected

Big Lots is planning to close up to 315 stores nationwide, with California hit hardest, losing 75 of its 109 locations. The retailer also faces financial challenges, including reduced credit limits and increased interest rates. Despite a recent plan to open new stores, Big Lots is grappling with significant losses and a pullback in consumer spending. Read more →

Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level Since April 2023: What It Means for Homebuyers

Mortgage rates have fallen to 6.34%, the lowest since April 2023, due to recession concerns impacting the housing market. This decline is coupled with a decrease in median home prices, now at $389,750, and a slight slowdown in price growth. Despite fewer pending sales, there’s a surge in mortgage applications and home tour interest as buyers rush to secure deals before rates potentially rise again. Read more →

Drone Bystander Aids in Dramatic Rescue of Family from Sinking Boat on Utah Lake

A bystander using a drone played a crucial role in rescuing a family of seven whose boat was sinking on Utah Lake. The drone operator’s live footage helped emergency crews locate and reach the distressed family more quickly. The dramatic rescue highlights the growing importance of technology in emergency situations. Read more →

Annabelle Candy Company to Close Factory, but Classic Candies Will Continue

Annabelle Candy Company, famous for its Big Hunk, Rocky Road, and Abba Zaba treats, is closing its Hayward manufacturing facility on September 27 due to financial challenges and the costs of upgrading an aging plant. While the factory will shut down, the iconic candies will still be produced by Promise Confections at other locations. The closure will affect 43 employees, who will be supported through the transition. Read more →

FBI Warns of New Bank Impersonation Scam: How to Protect Yourself

Scammers are now impersonating banks over the phone to steal debit card information. They trick victims into cutting up their cards and then send an accomplice to collect the chip from the broken card. The FBI has issued a warning about this scam, which uses spoofed caller IDs and social engineering to gain access to victims’ accounts. Here’s how you can stay safe and what to do if you suspect you’re being targeted. Read more →

Discovering Life on the Road: A Journey in a Camper Van

Ever wondered what life would be like in a camper van? Join the author on a three-week adventure along Route 66, exploring the highs and lows of van life. From the thrill of a cost-efficient road trip to the personal growth gained from living in tight quarters, find out how this unique travel experience transformed their perspective on life. Read more →

Pumpkin Spice Season Arrives Early: 7-Eleven Leads the Way with New Treats

Get your pumpkin spice fix ahead of the crowd! 7-Eleven has kicked off the season with a variety of pumpkin-spiced drinks, including the new Pumpkin Spice Slurpee. Available now at select locations, this early launch highlights the growing pumpkin craze, with other retailers and restaurants also embracing this seasonal flavor in innovative ways. Read more →