News You Can Use • October 2024

Welcome to October’s News You Can Use! This month, we’re keeping an eye on some important developments. As holiday shopping ramps up, be alert for email scams—recognizing red flags can save you money. Plus, if you’ve shared your DNA with 23andMe, recent changes raise questions about your privacy. Stay informed with the latest insights to help you navigate this month.

Can Kids Stay Home Alone? Know the Laws and Guidelines by State

Wondering if it’s legal to leave your child home alone? The answer varies from state to state! While some states set specific ages, most leave it up to parents to decide based on their child’s maturity and circumstances. Family therapist Sheryl Ziegler shares expert insights on assessing your child’s readiness for this big milestone. Check out the complete rundown of legal ages and tips to help you make the right choice for your family. Read more →

Data Breach Alert: Landmark Admin Exposes Personal Info of 800,000

In a significant data breach, Landmark Admin has revealed that a cyberattack in May has potentially exposed the personal information of over 800,000 individuals. The company, which provides administrative services for various insurance carriers, detected suspicious activity on May 13, prompting immediate action to secure its IT systems. An ongoing investigation has confirmed unauthorized access to sensitive data, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and medical information. Landmark will notify affected individuals as more details unfold. Read more →

Fall Flavor Alert: The Healthiest Food of the Season

As the leaves change, so does the produce at your local market! One of the best things about fall is the abundance of healthy, delicious foods available. Among the many seasonal delights, pomegranates take the crown for their impressive health benefits, including fiber, vitamins, and inflammation-fighting polyphenols. Not only do they reduce risks for obesity and cardiovascular disease, but they also enhance cozy dishes like oatmeal and roasted veggies. Explore other nutritious fall favorites like pumpkins, apples, and Brussels sprouts that make for perfect autumn meals. Read more →

Health Scare: E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders

A recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has sickened at least 75 people across 13 states, with one confirmed fatality. The CDC is investigating the source, believed to be contaminated onions, as McDonald’s has removed the affected product from hundreds of locations. Symptoms of infection can be severe, prompting health officials to urge those who consumed the burgers to monitor their health closely. Read more →

Saying Goodbye? The Future of the $100 Bill in a Digital Age

The iconic $100 bill, America’s most circulated banknote, is set to undergo a redesign with enhanced security features, expected to hit circulation between 2034 and 2038. As digital payment methods gain popularity, questions about the future of cash are on the rise, particularly regarding its accessibility and relevance. While cash may not vanish entirely, its role is poised to evolve significantly, prompting consumers to rethink their reliance on physical currency. Read more →

Unlocking Heart Health: Why the DASH Diet is Your Best-Kept Secret

Despite its proven benefits for heart health, the DASH diet remains surprisingly unpopular among Americans. This article explores the reasons behind this trend and offers practical tips to make the DASH diet easier to follow. Discover how small, gradual changes can lead to significant health improvements and why now is the perfect time to consider this heart-healthy approach! Read more →

Frozen Waffles Recalled Nationwide Over Listeria Concerns

Frozen waffle lovers, check your freezers! TreeHouse Foods has recalled several popular brands, including Walmart’s Great Value and Target’s Good & Gather, due to potential listeria contamination. The recalled waffles, sold at major retailers across the U.S. and Canada, may pose health risks, especially to pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Consumers are urged to review product codes on the TreeHouse Foods website to identify affected products… Read more →

The Iconic VW ID Buzz Is Back—And It’s Electrifying!

The long-awaited Volkswagen ID Buzz is finally here, bringing an iconic design and eco-friendly power to the electric minivan market. This beloved bus has evolved with cutting-edge tech, a spacious three-row layout, and surprising agility for its size. But was it worth the wait? Discover the details of its performance, why the wait took so long, and how the new Buzz compares to past attempts. We took it for a spin—find out what we loved and where it falls short. Read more →

Top 10 Healthy Fall Foods You Should Be Eating Now

Fall brings a harvest of nutritious and delicious foods perfect for the season. From vibrant pomegranates rich in antioxidants to fiber-packed sweet potatoes and immune-boosting Brussels sprouts, these 10 dietitian-approved foods are both tasty and packed with health benefits. Whether you’re craving a cozy soup or a hearty side dish, these seasonal staples will add flavor and nutrition to your fall meals. Curious about the number one healthiest food this season? Read on to discover why pomegranates take the top spot! Read more → 

25 Simple Ways to Reset Your Relationship with Your Phone

Is your phone dominating your life a bit too much? From using Do Not Disturb during alone time to setting screen time limits, these 25 practical tips will help you take back control. Whether it’s rearranging your apps, turning off notifications, or finding new hobbies, small changes can make a big difference in your digital habits. It’s all about finding balance in a tech-filled world without ditching your phone entirely. Read more →

Chips Rebellion: Why Tostitos and Ruffles Are Stuffing Their Bags Again

Consumers have finally had enough of paying more for less, especially when it comes to their beloved chips. In response to growing backlash against shrinkflation, PepsiCo is now adding 20% more chips to certain Tostitos and Ruffles bags without raising prices. This move comes after years of shrinking bags and rising costs. As inflation squeezes wallets, more shoppers have turned to cheaper brands, and PepsiCo is trying to win them back with bigger bags and new promotions… Read more →

FTC’s ‘Click to Cancel’ Rule: Goodbye to Streaming Subscription Headaches

Tired of jumping through hoops to cancel your streaming subscriptions? The FTC is stepping in with its new “click to cancel” rule, making it as simple to cancel services like Netflix and Hulu as it is to sign up. The rule, set to take effect in 180 days, bans complicated cancellation processes and prevents companies from trapping customers in auto-renewals. This move is part of a broader crackdown on deceptive practices, aiming to save consumers time and money… Read more →

Rare Comet C/2023A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS Dazzles Across the U.S

A breathtaking sight awaits stargazers as Comet C/2023A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, a once-in-a-lifetime comet visible every 80,000 years, lights up the night sky over the U.S. This weekend marks one of the best opportunities to view the comet, which is making its closest approach to Earth on October 12. While it can be spotted with the naked eye, binoculars will enhance the experience as it becomes more distant and dimmer throughout October. Don’t miss your chance to witness this rare celestial event! Read more →

Bake Like a Pro: King Arthur’s 4 Must-Try Bread Mixes

If you’re a bread lover, King Arthur Baking Company has just launched four game-changing bread baking mixes that every baker needs to try! These mixes—Pull-Apart Garlic Bread, Crisp & Airy Focaccia, Soft & Chewy Pretzel Bites, and Perfectly Tender Flatbread—are designed for bakers of all skill levels and ready in just one hour. Each kit includes a bread mix and a seasoning kit, requiring only water and oil or butter. After testing all four mixes, I can assure you they deliver delicious results that will elevate your baking game. Read more →

SpaceX Achieves Rocket Recovery Breakthrough with Catching Arms

In a remarkable feat of engineering, SpaceX successfully caught its Starship rocket booster with mechanical arms at the launch pad during a test flight. This significant milestone marks a step toward reusable space travel, as the booster returned seven minutes after launch, secured by the tower’s “chopsticks.” SpaceX CEO Elon Musk hailed the event as “science fiction without the fiction part.” With plans for moon and Mars missions, this achievement adds to SpaceX’s goal of making space travel more efficient and sustainable. Read more →

Internet Archive Hacked: 31 Million Emails Exposed

The Internet Archive’s Wayback Machine, a vital resource for accessing historical web content, has suffered a major security breach, compromising over 31 million user records, including email addresses and hashed passwords. The attack, confirmed by HIBP, reveals the urgent need for users to check if their information has been affected. As the Archive faces ongoing DDoS attacks, users must take proactive steps to protect their data. Read more →

End of an Era: Jelly Belly Closes North Chicago Plant After 110 Years

Jelly Belly, the iconic candy company known for its jelly beans, has officially closed its North Chicago plant after 110 years in operation. Following its acquisition by Ferrara Candy Company in 2023, the decision to shut down the facility will impact 66 employees, though relocation opportunities within Ferrara’s other local facilities are being offered. This marks a significant transition for the beloved brand, which has deep roots in the Chicago area since 1904. Read more →

Tesla’s Bold Move: Introducing the Cybercab and Autonomous Driving Revolution

Elon Musk has officially unveiled Tesla’s highly anticipated “Cybercab,” a fully autonomous robotaxi without steering wheels or pedals, set to hit the market in 2026. At a presentation in Hollywood, Musk highlighted the advancements in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving technology, allowing for future rides where passengers can relax or even sleep during their journey. Despite the excitement, skepticism remains regarding the timeline and reliability of this technology, especially with other companies already deploying autonomous vehicles on public roads. Read more →

How Coffee Could Lower Your Risk of Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Stroke

New research suggests that drinking one to three cups of coffee daily may reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke by up to 48%. Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, the study highlights the benefits of moderate caffeine consumption. However, experts caution that not all caffeinated drinks are created equal—coffee and tea are safer bets. Learn how coffee’s antioxidants, caffeine effects, and other factors contribute to this health boost. But be mindful of portion sizes and skip the sugary add-ons. Read more →

Gourmet on a Budget: Mastering Elevated Cooking Without Breaking the Bank

Did you know the average household spends around $3,600 a year dining out? If you’re looking to save money while still enjoying gourmet meals, this guide is for you! Discover how to elevate your home-cooked dishes by starting with great ingredients, planning ahead, and mastering presentation. With a few strategic tips, you can whip up restaurant-worthy meals on a budget and even explore creative ways to turn your cooking into a side hustle. Ready to upgrade your kitchen game? Read more →

Dog Food Recall: Nationwide Withdrawal Over Salmonella & Listeria Concerns

ANSWERS Pet Food has voluntarily pulled some of their beef and chicken dog food products after the FDA found samples containing salmonella and listeria monocytogenes. Sold in 4-pound bags nationwide and online, these contaminated items pose a risk to both pets and humans. The FDA urges owners to discard the products and thoroughly sanitize any areas that came into contact with the food. No illnesses have been reported, but caution is advised. Find out more about this recall and safety tips here. Read more →

Brain Drain: The Alarming Rise of Microplastics in Our Minds

Recent studies reveal an “alarming” presence of microplastics in human brains, prompting urgent calls for a global emergency response to plastic pollution. Researchers found that the brain contains significantly more microplastics than other organs, raising serious health concerns. As exposure to these tiny particles continues to increase, it’s crucial to understand the implications for our health and the environment. Discover what you can do to reduce your risk in your daily life. Read more →

Could Tide Evo Be the Future of Laundry Detergents?

Tired of lugging heavy detergent bottles or dealing with underperforming pods and sheets? Enter Tide Evo—a dissolvable fiber detergent tile promising a more sustainable and effective clean. In our hands-on evaluation, we washed 12 loads to see if this new product lives up to the hype. From sweat-drenched workout gear to stained whites, here’s what you need to know about this potential laundry game-changer. Read more →

Toilet Paper Shortage? Not So Fast! What You Need to Know About the Port Strike

As a dockworkers’ strike shut down 14 ports, concerns about a toilet paper shortage have sparked panic buying among consumers. However, experts confirm there’s no need to worry. About 85% of toilet paper is produced domestically, meaning the strike won’t impact supplies. While retailers may consider limits to prevent hoarding, many supermarket staples are still abundantly available. Keep calm and stock up wisely—this situation isn’t a repeat of the pandemic! Read more →

Don’t Fall for It: Avoid These Red Flags in Emails to Protect Your Wallet!

With cyberattacks on the rise, nearly half of people surveyed have fallen victim to scams. A recent study reveals that certain words in emails—like “money,” “investment,” and “free”—are major red flags for phishing attempts. By recognizing these dangerous terms, you can better protect yourself from scams that could drain your bank account. Stay vigilant and don’t let a careless click cost you! Read more →

Is Your DNA at Risk? The Troubling Future of 23andMe

23andMe is facing a significant crisis, with its stock nearing delisting, a shutdown of its drug-development unit, and a mass resignation of its board, leaving only CEO Anne Wojcicki. As the company considers selling, the genetic data of its 15 million customers could be up for grabs. While this data has helped connect families and solve crimes, the uncertain future raises concerns about how it might be used. If you’ve shared your DNA with 23andMe, it’s time to pay attention to what this could mean for your privacy. Read more →

• MORE: News You Can Use • September 2024
• MORE: News You Can Use • August 2024
• MORE: News You Can Use • July 2024

 

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Check back regularly for updates! We’ll be adding new top news articles throughout October 2024.

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