News You Can Use • August 2026 • Everyday Cheapskate

Hello, August! The sun’s blazing, the snacks are melting, and some of us are wondering if back-to-school aisles always show up this early. While summer clings on, the headlines are heating up too. Whether you’re soaking in the last rays or just looking for a break from the news cycle, here’s your monthly dose of smart, useful, and occasionally surprising updates.

Food Recalls Are Piling Up: What Should You Still Eat?

With recalls and outbreaks involving lettuce, jalapeños, berries and eggs, grocery shopping can suddenly feel like a game of “Is this safe?” The good news is you don’t need to avoid fresh food altogether. A gastroenterologist shares a few simple precautions, including what to watch for when buying produce and the safest way to handle lettuce at home.
Read more →

A Solar Eclipse Is Coming: Will You Be Able to See It?

A solar eclipse is headed our way Wednesday, and parts of the U.S. will get a front-row glimpse, even though only a small portion of the Sun will be covered. Meanwhile, skywatchers in parts of Europe will experience something much more dramatic: total darkness during the day. If you’re planning to look up, there’s one important safety rule you absolutely shouldn’t skip.
Read more →

Moneymaxxing? We’ve Been Doing That for Years

“Moneymaxxing” may sound like the latest social-media trend, but there’s really nothing new about it. Cutting unnecessary expenses, stretching every dollar, paying down debt, automating savings and getting the most from what you already have are the same practical money habits that have helped families build financial breathing room for decades. The new part is simply giving an old-fashioned idea a trendy name.
Read more →

Three Midlife Habits That Could Buy You 13 More Years of Brain Health

Your brain may have a longer memory than you think. A 26-year study found that avoiding just three common health risks in midlife was linked to about 13 extra years without dementia. The encouraging part? Experts say it’s never too late to start making changes that benefit both your heart and your brain.
Read more →

The Moon Has a Brand-New Crater and a Satellite Caught It Happening

The Moon has a fresh scar after a stray SpaceX rocket stage slammed into its surface at nearly 5,400 mph. A South Korean lunar orbiter captured rare before-and-after images showing the new impact crater and the darker debris left behind. Even more detailed photos are expected soon, offering a fascinating look at an accidental cosmic collision.
Read more →

Ford’s New Electric Truck Has a Surprising Price Tag

Ford has finally revealed the name of its upcoming affordable electric pickup and the biggest surprise may be the price. Starting just under $30,000, the new truck is designed to make EV ownership more accessible while packing in features like hands-free driving, a front trunk, and room for five. If you’ve been waiting for an electric truck that won’t break the budget, this one is worth watching.
Read more →

Prime Members Have Free Books Waiting This Month

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, don’t overlook one of the quieter perks of your membership. This month, you can claim two free Kindle e-books through Amazon First Reads, including an early-release title and a bonus short read. It only takes a minute to add them to your library and they’re yours to keep.
Read more →

Fitbit Users Just Got a Feature They’ve Wanted for Years

If you use a Fitbit and an iPhone, managing your health data just got a lot easier. A new update finally lets Fitbit information like steps, sleep, workouts, and heart rate sync directly with Apple Health. No third-party apps or complicated workarounds required.
Read more →

The Hidden Retirement Cost of Helping Grown Kids

More adult children are moving back home, but the financial impact doesn’t stop with higher grocery bills. Financial planners say many parents are delaying retirement or saving less because supporting grown kids can cost thousands each year. Here’s why more families are rethinking the “empty nest” years and what to consider before saying yes.
Read more →