News You Can Use • May 2025

Hello, May! The flowers are blooming, the days are getting longer, and there’s something about May that just feels full of possibility. From musical trees to heartwarming kindness and schools literally seeing the light, there’s something here to inspire, uplift, and maybe even make you say, “Well, I didn’t know that!” So, pour yourself something iced or bubbly (or both!) and dive into May’s standout headlines.

This DMV Text Could Cost You—If You Fall for It

Scammers are posing as your local DMV in a text message scheme threatening license suspension over unpaid fees. These smishing scams use alarming language, spoofed agency names, and fake URLs to trick recipients into handing over personal or financial info. With over 19 billion spam texts sent in April alone, it pays to know the red flags—before you click.
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Are You Ruining Your Soy Sauce? Storage Mistake That’s Spoiling the Flavor

You might be unintentionally dulling the bold flavor of your soy sauce just by storing it in the wrong place. Experts explain why that spot in your cupboard isn’t doing your condiments any favors—and it’s not just soy sauce at risk. From pesto to olive oil, see what really belongs in the fridge and how to keep your staples fresher, longer.
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Think Twice Before That Stormy Shower: Here’s Why It Could Be Dangerous

Most of us think we’re safe from lightning once we’re indoors—but did you know that showering during a thunderstorm could actually put you at risk? According to the CDC, lightning can travel through plumbing, meaning your relaxing rinse might not be so harmless. Learn why it’s safer to hold off on showers (and a few other activities) until the storm passes—plus what to do instead while you wait.
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Amazon Finally Refunding Some Returns—Even Ones from 2018!

Amazon is issuing refunds for a small group of unresolved product returns dating back as far as 2018. After an internal review, the company found cases where refunds were never completed or verified, leading to delayed reimbursements. Affected customers don’t need to take action—Amazon is proactively fixing the issue and improving their return process. This move follows a $1.1 billion charge Amazon reported recently, tied in part to these historic returns. Some customers have already reported surprising refunds, while a class action lawsuit over refund practices is still underway.
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Home Depot’s Price Promise: Stability Ahead, But Some Products May Vanish

Home Depot plans to keep most prices steady despite rising costs from tariffs, aiming to attract customers with stable pricing. However, some products could disappear from shelves due to tariff impacts, especially those sourced from China. The company has diversified suppliers and sources more than half of its products domestically. While competitors are raising prices, Home Depot hopes its approach will boost market share even as the housing market slows. Still, looming tariff hikes on lumber and other goods may force changes down the line.
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What to Stockpile Now Before Tariff Price Hikes Hit Your Wallet

Tariffs are causing uncertainty and rising prices, but not everything is worth panic-buying. This guide helps you plan smartly by focusing on essentials like toys, medications, pet food, coffee, and everyday household staples that could see price spikes or shortages. It also highlights items that aren’t worth hoarding, like toilet paper and electronics. Think of it as your friendly heads-up to stock wisely—not wildly—before costs climb.
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Why Your Memorial Day Cookout Will Cost You More This Year — And How to Save

Memorial Day weekend is here, and so is the yearly backyard cookout price check. This year, the cost of your favorite BBQ staples is up 3.4%, mainly due to a nearly 19% jump in beef hot dog prices. On the bright side, burgers, buns, and cheese have gotten a bit cheaper, and switching your menu around can help you save. Want to keep your cookout budget-friendly despite rising condiment and soda prices?
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Standing Room Only: How Budget Airlines Plan to Transform Flying in 2026

Starting in 2026, budget airlines will introduce a bold new seating style called Skyrider 2.0—standing-only seats designed for short flights under two hours. These saddle-like seats passed rigorous safety tests and could boost passenger capacity by 20%, promising even cheaper fares. Ryanair is leading the charge, but travelers are divided on whether saving money is worth sacrificing comfort and dignity. What does this mean for the future of budget travel?
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How Nursing Homes Were Paid to Cut Hospital Trips — At What Cost?

A Guardian investigation reveals that UnitedHealth quietly paid nursing homes bonuses to reduce hospital transfers for Medicare Advantage patients—saving millions but sometimes risking residents’ health. Whistleblowers expose cases where needed hospital care was delayed, causing serious harm. Internal records show a relentless push to cut costs, including pressuring patients into do-not-resuscitate orders and incentivizing nursing homes based on hospitalization rates. UnitedHealth denies wrongdoing but faces growing scrutiny over these practices.
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Miss Your Flight, Lose It All? Hawaiian Airlines Rolls Out Strict New No-Show Policy

Hawaiian Airlines has quietly launched a new no-show policy that could cost travelers big. If you miss a confirmed flight without canceling or rescheduling, you’ll lose the entire value of your non-refundable fare — including any return flights. This policy, now aligned with Alaska Airlines following their 2024 merger, applies even to loyal HawaiianMiles and Mileage Plan Elite members. Learn how to protect your ticket and what steps to take if life throws a wrench in your plans.
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Toilet Paper Trouble Ahead? New Tariffs Spark Shortage Warnings

Remember the great toilet paper panic of 2020? It could be making a comeback. Suzano SA, the world’s largest exporter of toilet paper pulp, is sounding the alarm after a sharp drop in U.S. shipments due to new tariffs. A 20% dip in pulp exports and rising costs are raising concerns about potential shortages and price hikes at the store. While shelves are still stocked for now, this global supply hiccup may be a warning sign.
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Does Your Car’s Start/Stop System Actually Save You Gas? Here’s the Real Scoop

That start/stop feature in your car might be doing more for your gas mileage than you think—but only in the right conditions. While some drivers find it annoying or worry it’s bad for their engine, experts say it’s built to handle frequent stops and can cut fuel use by up to 26%—especially if you’re doing a lot of city driving. But for highway drivers, the benefit may be minimal. Curious if it’s worth the trade-off in comfort and convenience?
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How Scam-Savvy Are You? Age-Based Fraud Tactics Uncovered

Fraudsters know exactly how to target different age groups—from Gen Z’s remote work offers to seniors’ long-term romance scams. This Arizona educator breaks down how scammers tailor their tactics based on your age and shares seven key warning signs to protect yourself before it’s too late. Knowing what to watch for can save you thousands and a lot of heartache.
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Claim Your Share of Apple’s $95 Million Siri Snooping Settlement—Here’s How

If you used a Siri-enabled Apple device from 2014 to 2024, you could be eligible for part of a $95 million settlement over unauthorized recordings. You have until July 2, 2025, to file claims for up to five devices and possibly receive up to $20 per device. Learn how to check if you qualify and submit your claim before the deadline.
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Say Goodbye to Hidden Fees: New FTC Rule Forces Full Price Disclosure Starting May 12

Starting May 12, 2025, a new FTC rule requires ticket sellers and short-term lodging platforms to clearly show total prices upfront — including all mandatory fees. This rule aims to end frustrating last-minute surprises and promote fair competition by making prices more transparent. Businesses that don’t comply could face penalties.
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Bride Skis Down the Aisle in Her Wedding Dress—8,000 Feet Above Sea Level

When Jess Hoefkens said she wanted a mountain wedding, she meant it—skiing down the snowy aisle in her wedding dress to marry Ladis at 8,000 feet in the French Alps. With a handmade gown, her father by her side, and 20 guests cheering in ski gear, this breathtaking ceremony at Mont Brévant was anything but ordinary. The couple celebrated with champagne before skiing down the mountain—photographer in tow!
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Okra and Fenugreek Could Be the Key to Microplastic-Free Water

In an exciting breakthrough from Tarleton State University, researchers discovered that extracts from okra and fenugreek remove up to 90% of microplastics from various water sources—without the toxic side effects of synthetic alternatives. With funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, this natural solution could revolutionize water treatment. It’s safe, biodegradable, and surprisingly effective.
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Amish Volunteers Rebuild NC Towns with Heart and Hammer

When Hurricane Helene tore through North Carolina, towns like Chimney Rock and Bat Cave were left devastated. But a remarkable group of volunteers—many of them Amish from Pennsylvania—stepped in to help rebuild not just homes and businesses, but hope. Their dedication, skills, and generosity have transformed the disaster zone into a thriving worksite full of compassion and resilience.
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REAL ID Deadline Is Here—But You Can Still Fly Without One (For Now)

The REAL ID deadline has finally arrived after 17 years of delays—but don’t panic! You can still fly without one for now, though expect extra scrutiny at the airport. While it’s a good idea to get your REAL ID for smoother travels, there are alternatives like a U.S. passport or Enhanced Driver’s License that will still get you through security. Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared.
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Why “No Mow May” Is a Misstep for Your Lawn and Pollinators

The popular “No Mow May” campaign sounds like a great way to help pollinators, but conservationists argue it can harm both your lawn and local wildlife. While the idea is to let your grass grow and support pollinators, the reality is it doesn’t provide the right nutrients or habitat. Instead, experts suggest planting native flower beds and reducing lawn space to create a healthier, more sustainable environment for both bees and your yard.
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10 Cheapest Grocery Stores in the U.S. for Big Savings

If rising food prices are cutting into your budget, switching to a value-focused grocery store might help you save. We’ve rounded up the 10 best grocery stores offering unbeatable value for your money, based on a recent shopper survey. From Lidl to Fred Meyer, discover where to shop to stretch your grocery dollars further. Read on to see which stores made the list—and how you can maximize your savings while grocery shopping.
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From Sidewalks to Soundboards: How Urban Trees Are Changing the Music Industry

What if your next guitar came from a tree that once shaded a city street? Taylor Guitars is transforming condemned urban trees and streaked ebony once deemed “imperfect” into high-quality instruments that are saving money, reducing deforestation, and challenging the norms of what beauty in craftsmanship really means. This new movement isn’t just changing guitars—it’s honoring the Earth in the process.
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How $20 and a Heart Full of Love Sparked 350 Acts of Kindness

When Kristina Ulmer lost her sister in a tragic car accident, she turned her grief into a ripple of goodness. Using $100 in tips her sister earned, Kristina launched a “Kindness Challenge” with her students—asking them to use $20 to do something kind and document it. Over the years, this challenge has inspired more than 350 acts of compassion, proving that even a small amount of money can make a powerful difference.
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Illinois School Adds 70 Windows—And Test Scores Soar With the Sunlight

In Jacksonville, Illinois, Eisenhower Elementary is proving just how powerful natural light can be. With help from Windex’s “Windows of Opportunity” program, the once-gloomy school added 70 windows—and the transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. Backed by studies showing daylight improves test scores, attendance, and student wellbeing, this bright idea is already paying off.
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• MORE: News You Can Use • April 2025
• MORE: News You Can Use • March 2025
• MORE: News You Can Use • February 2025

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

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