News You Can Use • July 2025

Hello, July! The grill’s fired up, the fireflies are out, and some of us are keeping entire ice companies in business. While the heat rises, so do the headlines: airlines making moves that actually help solo travelers (imagine that!), HVAC advice that won’t melt your budget, and turmeric turning heads in the science world. Whether you’re dodging sprinklers, road-tripping with snacks, or soaking in every golden minute of daylight, we’ve got a roundup of reads to keep you cool, curious, and maybe a little smarter by the end of it.

Public Park Grilling 101: How to Master Those Charcoal Grills Like a Pro

Those built-in charcoal grills at your local park? They’re free to use—and easier than you think. From claiming your grill early to lighting coals and cleaning up like a courteous pro, here’s everything you need to know to host a successful cookout without burning your food or the goodwill of the next griller.
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Millions Tricked by Malicious QR Codes — Are You Next?

With QR codes everywhere—from menus to parking meters—millions of people are falling victim to “quishing” attacks, where fake codes lead to phishing sites designed to steal your passwords and data. Scammers are sticking malicious QR codes over legit ones, making it tough to spot danger. Stay safe by verifying QR sources, avoiding suspicious links, and using security apps to protect your devices.
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Why Frozen Berries Might Just Be Your Healthiest Pick

Think fresh berries are always better? Think again. Experts say frozen berries can match—or even beat—fresh ones in nutrition because they’re picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen to lock in vitamins and antioxidants. Frozen berries also last longer, reduce waste, and often cost less. Learn the best tips for buying and storing both fresh and frozen berries to get the most from every bite.
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All Aboard the Megamerger: Union Pacific’s $200 Billion Power Move Could Reshape U.S. Railroads

Union Pacific is in advanced talks with Norfolk Southern to create a $200 billion coast-to-coast freight rail network—the biggest merger in railroad history. If finalized, this deal would mark the first single-line West-to-East freight corridor in the U.S., potentially redrawing the competitive map of American rail transport. Meanwhile, regulators and rival railroads prepare for ripple effects, including a second megamerger and debates over rising shipping costs.
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Think Twice Before You Donate: 7 Items Charities Just Can’t Use

Donating to charity feels great—but not everything in your declutter pile is welcome. From stained clothes to that old unassembled dresser, some items end up being more of a burden than a blessing. Knowing what not to donate saves charities time and resources, and spares you the frustration of having your donation turned away. Before you load up the car, check this list of seven things most charities just can’t take.
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The Palm Trick That’ll Change How You Pick Peaches Forever

Peach picking doesn’t have to be a gamble. A fifth-generation farmer from Georgia’s Pearson Farm shares insider secrets to help you choose the juiciest, most flavorful peaches—every time. From using your palm instead of your fingers to what skin color signals underripeness, these pro tips will up your fruit game and make sure every bite tastes like sunshine.
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What Every Parent Should Know About College Mental Health

College students are facing record levels of anxiety, burnout, and depression—but most parents won’t hear about it until things spiral. This eye-opening guide helps you recognize the real signs of struggle, ask better questions, and support your student without pushing them away. Learn practical, compassionate ways to stay connected and make a difference—even from a distance.
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Top 10 College Majors—and What They Really Pay

Choosing a major is about more than passion—it’s also about payoff. This breakdown of the 10 most popular college majors, from Business to Biomedical Science, reveals median salaries, popular specializations, and how each field ranks in terms of difficulty and career paths. Whether you’re planning for college or helping someone who is, these insights can guide smart, informed choices.
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Gen Z’s Great College Regret: Was It Worth It?

Nearly 1 in 4 Gen Z workers regrets going to college, citing overwhelming debt, low job prospects, and a rapidly changing job market reshaped by AI. A growing number say their degrees didn’t help their careers, and many now favor skilled trades, side hustles, or tech upskilling instead. As college loses its once-guaranteed ROI, Gen Z is forcing a national conversation about what higher education is really worth today.
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How a Quick-Thinking Bank Teller Stopped a $9,000 Crypto Scam

A 75-year-old retiree almost lost $9,000 in a crypto scam that promised a $90,000 payout—until a vigilant bank teller spotted the red flags. Scammers often target older adults with “withdrawal fee” scams, pressuring victims to pay upfront for fake earnings. Learn how these scams work, why seniors are vulnerable, and practical steps to protect your loved ones from falling prey.
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AT&T’s New Account Lock: Your Shield Against SIM Swapping Scams

AT&T has launched a powerful new Account Lock feature to protect users from SIM swapping attacks, a growing threat where hackers hijack your phone number to access sensitive accounts. This easy-to-enable security tool stops unauthorized changes like SIM swaps, phone number transfers, and billing updates. Learn how to activate this safeguard through the myAT&T app and keep your account locked down tight.
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Del Monte Foods Files for Bankruptcy

Del Monte Foods, the iconic canned fruit and vegetable maker, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy but plans to keep its operations running during a court-supervised sale process. Backed by nearly $1 billion in financing, the company aims to restructure and emerge stronger. Learn what this means for the brand and its future as the sale moves forward.
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Caught by A.I.: Rental Car Dings You Didn’t See But Still Paid For

Think that tiny dent on your rental car will go unnoticed? Think again. Hertz and other major rental agencies are rolling out A.I.-powered scanners that use thousands of high-res images to detect even the tiniest scratches—and bill you for them. While the companies say the tech ensures transparency and fairness, some renters are getting hit with unexpected charges for damage they never saw. As this system expands to more airports, travelers are pushing back.
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Stop Using These Now: Costco Shoppers Warned About Dangerous Recalls

Costco shoppers, take note: a string of urgent product recalls has been issued for items ranging from power banks and pressure cookers to air conditioners and rolling coolers. Some products were sold through Costco Next, while others hit shelves directly. Several carry serious risks—fire, mold exposure, listeria contamination, and even fingertip amputation. Experts say these products should be stopped immediately and returned if possible. Here’s everything you need to know to check your recent purchases and stay safe.
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Why Your Burger Costs More Than Ever: Inside the U.S. Beef Price Surge

Beef prices have hit an all-time high, with ground beef now averaging $5.80 a pound—up nearly 50% from five years ago. From record-high cattle prices to ongoing drought and soaring feed costs, ranchers are feeling the squeeze, and consumers are footing the bill. Some cattle producers are downsizing herds to stay afloat, further tightening supply. And the USDA says prices will likely keep rising through 2025. What does this mean for your next grocery trip or summer barbecue?
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The Lunch Combo Heart Doctors Avoid Like the Plague

It’s easy to default to a cheeseburger and fries at lunchtime—but cardiologists say this classic combo is a recipe for heart disease. In fact, they call it the “poster lunch” for atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, and obesity. The good news? There are satisfying alternatives that are just as convenient and far better for your heart. From protein-packed salads to easy grain bowls, here’s what the pros actually eat—and what they urge you to skip.
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Why Your Snacks Are Getting Smaller (and What It Really Means)

If your favorite bag of chips feels a little lighter these days, you’re not imagining it. Big brands like PepsiCo, Campbell’s, and Mondelez are downsizing packaging to offer lower price points and keep budget-conscious shoppers from walking away. These smaller packs often have higher profit margins—and while they seem like a win for your wallet, they come with trade-offs. Here’s what’s driving this trend, who it helps (and who it doesn’t), and why even Costco is playing along.
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Lululemon Sues Costco Over $20 ‘Dupes’—Here’s What’s at Stake

Lululemon has filed a lawsuit against Costco, accusing the wholesale giant of selling lookalike apparel that closely mimics Lululemon’s signature styles at bargain-bin prices. The lawsuit claims these “dupes” are confusing customers and damaging Lululemon’s brand reputation. Products like Kirkland pants and Danskin hoodies are called out by name, with Lululemon alleging they infringe on its design patents and trade dress. While Costco hasn’t responded publicly, this legal battle could have ripple effects for retailers and budget-minded shoppers alike.
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Solo Travelers Just Got a Win: Delta and United Backtrack on Sneaky Fare Hike

Delta and United Airlines have quietly rolled back a controversial fare policy that charged solo travelers more than groups for the same flights—after a wave of backlash from frustrated flyers. While the move appears to be a response to bad press, it’s unclear if this is a permanent fix or a temporary pause. Meanwhile, American Airlines still hasn’t budged. Here’s how it all unfolded and what it means if you’re flying solo.
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This Is the Best AC Setting During a Heat Wave, According to a Pro

Cranking your AC to the coldest setting might seem like the only solution during a heat wave—but it’s actually doing more harm than good. HVAC expert Elizabeth Shavers shares why keeping your thermostat steady between 75–78°F is smarter, safer, and more energy-efficient. Plus, learn easy ways to keep your home cooler without overworking your system (or your budget).
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Turmeric’s Hidden Superpower? Science Just Uncovered a Surprising New Benefit

Turmeric has long been praised for its anti-inflammatory powers, but a new review of global studies reveals it might also support brain health, improve blood pressure and cholesterol, ease menstrual cramps, and help manage conditions like type 2 diabetes and PCOS. Researchers examined evidence from 25 high-quality studies—and while the findings are promising, they also came with caveats. Here’s what the science actually says about turmeric, and how to work it into your routine.
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• MORE: News You Can Use • June 2025
• MORE: News You Can Use • May 2025
• MORE: News You Can Use • April 2025

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Check back regularly for updates! We’ll be adding new top news articles throughout July 2025.

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