News You Can Use • February 2026 • Everyday Cheapskate

Hello, February! Short on days but big on happenings… from Groundhog Day forecasts to Super Bowl snack showdowns. Grab a cup of something warm and dive into the top news articles you can actually use this month!

$2.67 Billion Payouts Coming to Blue Cross Blue Shield Policyholders

Millions of current and former Blue Cross Blue Shield policyholders are finally set to receive their share of a $2.67 billion antitrust settlement, with payouts starting in May 2026. The settlement resolves claims that over 30 BCBS plans limited competition, leading to higher premiums and fewer choices. Individual payments will vary based on premiums and coverage type, with the average likely in the low hundreds. Approved claimants are being notified now, and funds will be distributed via mailed checks, digital payments, or prepaid cards.
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Trump Eyes New Retirement Savings Plan for Workers

President Trump announced plans to help private-sector workers who lack employer retirement plans by giving them access to a federal-style savings account, including a potential $1,000 annual match. While details are still forthcoming, the proposal echoes the Saver’s Match program and could resemble the Thrift Savings Plan federal employees use, with low fees and diversified investments. Experts note auto-enrollment and broader adoption remain uncertain. Millions of Americans without workplace plans may see new ways to save if the plan moves forward.
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Big Bear Eagles Bounce Back with New Egg

After ravens destroyed their first clutch, Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear Valley’s iconic bald eagle pair, welcomed a new egg this week. Friends of Big Bear Valley confirmed the arrival on the 24/7 nest cam, giving fans a reason to celebrate amid a tough season. The egg brings hope not just for the eagles, but also for conservation efforts following the recent loss of FOBBV’s executive director, Sandy Steers. Nature and resilience are on full display.
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Reese’s Heir Says the Chocolate Isn’t the Same

Brad Reese, grandson of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups inventor H.B. Reese, is speaking out after discovering that some seasonal and specialty products use chocolate-flavored coating instead of milk chocolate. He says the change undermines his grandfather’s original formula, while Hershey maintains the classic peanut butter cups remain unchanged. With cocoa prices fluctuating and recipes evolving, the debate raises bigger questions about brand legacy, consumer trust, and what makes an iconic candy truly iconic.
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Why Today’s Robots Are Designed to Be Adorably Irresistible

From food delivery bots with big cartoon eyes to household helpers styled like friendly animated characters, tech companies are intentionally designing robots to look cute. The goal? Build trust, reduce fear, and encourage human acceptance as robots become part of daily life. But experts warn that emotional attachment, especially among children and vulnerable users, raises concerns about transparency and dependency. As AI moves into physical spaces, the race is on to balance function, friendliness, and ethics.
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Stop Searching for Your Purpose… Start Doing What Lights You Up

Purpose isn’t a grand mystery waiting to be solved—it’s often hiding in plain sight. The real clue? What energizes you. Whether it’s writing, hiking, teaching, or tinkering, those activities are “purpose anchors.” The challenge isn’t discovering them. It’s having the courage to act on them. Instead of obsessing over your life’s big “why,” start with one small step toward what excites you. Momentum follows movement.
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Why Gen Z Is Trading Screens for Vinyl, Cards, and Stick Shifts

From handwritten cards to manual-transmission cars and vinyl records, younger generations are embracing old-school habits in a hyper-digital world. While technology offers convenience, many Gen Zers and millennials crave experiences that feel tangible, intentional, and personal. Whether it’s flipping through records or mastering a clutch, these analog “islands” offer focus, connection, and a sense of permanence that screens can’t replicate.
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Don’t Miss It: When the 2026 Winter Olympics Closing Ceremony Begins

The 2026 Winter Olympics are wrapping up with a spectacular Closing Ceremony in Verona’s historic Arena di Verona. The celebration begins at 2:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 22, airing live on NBC and Peacock. Expect stunning performances, the emotional Olympic flag handoff to the French Alps for 2030, and the extinguishing of the Olympic flame. After weeks of unforgettable competition, this grand finale is the moment the world says goodbye to Milan-Cortina.
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Don’t Miss the Rare Planet Parade This Week

This week, skywatchers can catch a rare planetary alignment as Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune line up in the night sky. The best viewing is Saturday, February 28, about 30 minutes after sunset, looking west. Four planets—Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn—are visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a telescope. Don’t miss this celestial spectacle—it won’t happen again until 2040!
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Are You Earning What Your Peers Do in 2026?

Wondering if you’re keeping up financially? Median income varies widely by age. In your 20s, most earn around $41K–$60K as you build experience. Peak earnings hit in your 30s and 40s, with median salaries near $72K, while income often declines in your 50s and 60s, but wealth may be at its highest. Comparing yourself to peers can highlight opportunities to boost income, save aggressively, or shift focus to passive earnings as retirement approaches.
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Is Your Bread Ultra-Processed? A Simple Test Reveals All

Ultra-processed carbs like many breads, crackers, and pasta digest quickly, spike blood sugar, and can harm gut health. A simple rule of thumb, the “10 to 1” test, checks fiber-to-carb ratio, while an easy “water test” shows if a starch is minimally processed: if it holds together in water, it’s likely healthy; if it dissolves, it’s ultra-processed. Even kids can see the difference firsthand, helping families make smarter choices for long-term health.
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The Empathy Myth: Are Women Really Naturally Kinder?

Research shows empathy isn’t an inherent female trait but a mix of socialization, motivation, and context. Men and women can be equally empathetic when encouraged, rewarded, or taught to pay attention to others’ feelings. Societal expectations, childhood experiences, and even perceived power shape how empathy is expressed, not biology alone. Understanding this helps reshape gender norms, leadership perceptions, and relationships.
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Crew-12 Lifts Off: Inside NASA’s Latest Mission to the Space Station

Four astronauts are headed to the International Space Station after a dramatic predawn launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. NASA’s Crew-12 mission includes two American astronauts, a European Space Agency astronaut, and a Russian cosmonaut who will spend eight months conducting research and maintaining the orbiting lab. The launch comes after an unusual early medical evacuation left the station short-staffed. Here’s what to know about the crew and their mission.
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Costco’s $20 Rule Is Changing Retail

Costco’s decision to set a $20-per-hour minimum wage, rising to $21, may look generous, but it’s also strategic. While Walmart and Target offer lower starting pay ranges, Costco pairs higher wages with strong benefits and internal promotions. The payoff? Lower turnover, more experienced staff, stronger productivity, and steady sales growth. Research suggests investing in frontline workers isn’t a cost. It’s a competitive advantage. Here’s why the $20 rule could reshape retail.
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Longer Lives, New Retirement Rules: What You Need to Know

With people living well into their 80s and 90s, traditional retirement planning is quickly becoming outdated. Longer retirements bring new risks: inflation, rising healthcare costs, and the chance of outliving your savings. Experts recommend planning for a range of lifespans, adjusting withdrawal strategies, delaying Social Security when possible, and keeping some portfolio growth later in life. Flexible, layered income streams are now key to enjoying a secure retirement, whether you’re already retired or still working.
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Why “Burping” Your House Is Suddenly Everywhere

Opening your windows in winter sounds backwards, but it’s an age-old habit making a modern comeback. Known as lüften, this simple practice replaces stale indoor air with fresh air in just minutes, helping reduce odors, moisture, and allergens. Even in cold weather, a short daily airing can improve indoor air quality without wasting energy. It’s low effort, free, and surprisingly effective.
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The Car Brands Least Likely to Let You Down in 2026

Buying a car is stressful enough. Unexpected repairs make it worse. A new Consumer Reports analysis of more than 380,000 vehicles reveals which car brands are the most reliable in 2026, and the results change depending on whether you’re buying new or used. Some brands shine as they age, others stumble, and a few surprise in both directions. Knowing the difference could save you thousands over time.
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Think You’d Beat a Chimp? Here’s How Humans Really Compare to the Strongest Primates

A surprising number of men think they could take on a chimpanzee and win. Science says otherwise. From silverback gorillas and powerhouse chimps to long-leaping lemurs and tool-using monkeys, primate strength comes in many forms: brute force, explosive power, iron grips, and even tails that act like a fifth limb. This fascinating breakdown explains where humans truly shine (hint: it’s not wrestling) and why some primates would leave us flat in a heartbeat.
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Goodbye, Frozen OJ: Minute Maid Bids Farewell

After 80 years, Minute Maid is saying goodbye to its frozen juice concentrates in the U.S. and Canada. The brand, which made orange juice a year-round staple starting in 1946, is shifting focus to fresh and ready-to-drink juices as consumer tastes change. Rising prices, competition from smoothies and energy drinks, and concerns over added sugar have all contributed to the decline of frozen juice. Existing inventory will be available until April, marking the end of an era for this iconic freezer staple.
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Most Americans Barely Saving for Retirement

A new report shows the typical U.S. worker has only $955 saved for retirement, highlighting a growing financial gap for millions. Even among those with 401(k)s or other plans, median balances sit around $40,000, far below the $1.5 million many experts say is needed for a comfortable retirement. Social Security’s looming funding shortfall and rising poverty among seniors add to the concern. Without urgent action, many Americans may face longer work years and less financial security in old age.
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Bonobo Tea Party Reveals Surprising Imagination

A study shows Kanzi, a bonobo, can play pretend like a human child. Researchers staged an imaginary tea party with invisible juice and grapes, and Kanzi tracked pretend objects while distinguishing them from reality. The experiments suggest apes may share the cognitive ability to imagine multiple scenarios, challenging the idea that pretending is uniquely human. This insight could reshape how scientists understand animal intelligence and evolution.
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Punxsutawney Phil Sees His Shadow: Winter Isn’t Over Yet

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog Day, signaling six more weeks of winter ahead. While the tradition is fun, NOAA data shows Phil’s predictions have been right only about 35% of the time in the last 20 years. Meteorologists expect colder-than-normal conditions in much of the East and early spring warmth in the West and Southern Plains. Whether you trust the groundhog or the forecast, winter isn’t ready to pack up just yet.
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Why Disney Fans Will Travel Miles for Popcorn Buckets

Disney’s limited-edition popcorn buckets aren’t just souvenirs. They’re a reason some fans plan entire trips. From Pixar-themed light-up designs to nostalgic collectibles, these buckets fuel passion, fandom, and even social media buzz. Collectors share tips for snagging hard-to-find items and making the hunt part of the magic. Whether it’s soft serve in hand or a coveted bucket on the shelf, Disney fans turn memories into tangible keepsakes.
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Ravens Attack! What Happened to Big Bear’s Eagle Egg?

Nature took a dramatic turn at Big Bear Lake when ravens targeted one of the two recently laid eagle eggs, leaving viewers worried. While one egg was damaged, the dedicated parents, Jackie and Shadow, continue to incubate the remaining egg, and there’s hope for more this season. Fans are watching closely, rooting for a successful hatch and reminding us that wildlife is always full of surprises.
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Check back regularly for updates! We’ll be adding new top news articles throughout February 2026.

News You Can Use • February 2026