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Meta Drops Fact-Checking Program Ahead Of Trump's White House Return, Company Says Meta Drops Fact-Checking Program Ahead Of Trump's White House Return, Company Says
Meta Drops Fact-Checking Program Ahead Of Trump's White House Return, Company Says Meta is dismantling its third-party fact-checking program in the U.S. and aims to bring back political content as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, the company said. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced the changes in a video statement on Tuesday, Jan. 7. The company that owns Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, will replace its fact-checking program with a Community Notes system similar to the one implemented on X (formerly Twitter). Zuckerberg said the new system's goal is to reduce bias and restore free expression. "Fact-checkers have be…

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by Chris Spiker
Business
McDonald's Launches McValue Menu With $1 Deals, Free Fries, Big Perks McDonald's Launches McValue Menu With $1 Deals, Free Fries, Big Perks
McDonald's Launches McValue Menu With $1 Deals, Free Fries, Big Perks A new year means a new way to save money at McDonald's. The fast-food chain has officially debuted its new McValue menu on Tuesday, Jan. 7, McDonald's said in a news release. U.S. customers can enjoy deals like the new "Buy One, Add One for $1" offer and the popular $5 Meal Deal. The McValue menu also introduces exclusive app deals, including free medium fries with a $1 purchase every Friday throughout 2025 and a complimentary McCrispy chicken sandwich for first-time app users.  Owners of the roughly 13,500 restaurants nationwide can also add their own flair and unique …

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by Chris Spiker
Business
Don't Fall For It: New Twist On Imposter Fraud Targets Your Money, Personal Info Don't Fall For It: New Twist On Imposter Fraud Targets Your Money, Personal Info
Don't Fall For It: New Twist On Imposter Fraud Targets Your Money, Personal Info The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is sounding the alarm on a sophisticated new imposter scheme designed to steal your money and personal information.  These scams are becoming increasingly convincing, but learning to spot the red flags can help you stay protected. How the Scam Works Initial Contact: Scammers pose as representatives from well-known companies, such as Amazon or a tech support service. They’ll claim there’s a routine issue, like suspicious charges on your account, a computer virus, or an account breach. Escalation: The scammers lie, saying your name is tied to serious …

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by Joe Lombardi
Business
Popular Cold & Flu Medicine Recalled Over Contamination Concerns Popular Cold & Flu Medicine Recalled Over Contamination Concerns
Popular Cold & Flu Medicine Recalled Over Contamination Concerns A widely used cold and flu medication is being recalled due to potential contamination with foreign materials. The recall affects Kirkland Signature Severe Cold & Flu Plus Congestion medication sold at Costco in October and November. Impacted products have the lot code P140082 printed on the box and are linked to item number 1729556. Costco advises consumers to stop using the product immediately and return it to any Costco location for a full refund. “If you have any issues or concerns, contact us at 1-800-426-9391 or via email at complaints-inquiries@lnkintl.com,” the company said in …

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by Joe Lombardi
Business
Layoffs Loom At Washington Post Amid Talent Exodus, Financial Struggles: Report Layoffs Loom At Washington Post Amid Talent Exodus, Financial Struggles: Report
Layoffs Loom At Washington Post Amid Talent Exodus, Financial Struggles: Report The Washington Post is bracing for significant layoffs this week, with dozens of employees in the business division expected to lose their jobs, according to a report. Layoffs are set to shake The Washington Post, targeting the business division of the Jeff Bezos-owned and Will Lewis-led newspaper, Oliver Darcy reported in his Status newsletter. Sources said the cuts will be substantial, potentially impacting dozens of employees. The news comes as morale continues to plummet at the newspaper, which has recently experienced a wave of high-profile departures. Star reporter Josh Dawsey is…

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by Chris Spiker
Business
Disney, Fubo To Combine Streaming Services In Major Merger Disney, Fubo To Combine Streaming Services In Major Merger
Disney, Fubo To Combine Streaming Services In Major Merger Disney is set to acquire a majority stake in FuboTV Inc., merging its Hulu + Live TV service with Fubo in a transformative deal expected to reshape the streaming landscape. The combined business, operating under the Fubo name, will continue offering Hulu + Live TV and Fubo as separate services, the companies announced in news releases on Monday, Jan. 6.  With 6.2 million North American subscribers, the new venture aims to deliver greater consumer choice through expanded programming and flexible pricing. "This combination enables us to deliver on our promise to provide consumers with g…

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by Chris Spiker
Business
New Savings Stations Hit Stop & Shop New Savings Stations Hit Stop & Shop
New Savings Stations Hit Stop & Shop Stop & Shop is introducing Savings Station kiosks to make digital coupons accessible for all customers, including those without smartphones or internet access. The kiosks are expected to be installed in all of the company’s 350+ stores by the end of January. Customers can activate digital coupons and personalized offers by scanning their GO Rewards loyalty card or entering their phone number at the kiosk.  A QR code option is available for touchless activation, and customers can print a list of their loaded coupons for reference while shopping, with savings applied automatically at…

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by Joe Lombardi
Business
Alleged Eavesdropping Costs $95 Million As Apple Reaches Siri Settlement Alleged Eavesdropping Costs $95 Million As Apple Reaches Siri Settlement
Alleged Eavesdropping Costs $95 Million As Apple Reaches Siri Settlement Apple will pay a $95 million settlement regarding allegations that its virtual assistant, Siri, eavesdropped on users without their consent, according to multiple reports. The settlement, filed in federal court in Oakland, California this week, addresses a lawsuit that dates back five years and must be approved by a US District judge at a hearing on Friday, Feb. 14, Bloomberg Law reports. The lawsuit claims that Siri was activated to record conversations even when users did not use the launching phrase, “Hey, Siri.” These recordings were allegedly shared with third parties s to target user…

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by Joe Lombardi
Business
Table For None: Looking Back At Long Island Restaurants That Closed Their Doors In 2024 Table For None: Looking Back At Long Island Restaurants That Closed Their Doors In 2024
Table For None: Looking Back At Long Island Restaurants That Closed Their Doors In 2024 As the sun sets on 2024, Long Islanders are saying bittersweet goodbyes to some beloved eateries that served up more than just meals — they offered fond memories, good company, and plenty of laughs. From cherished neighborhood spots to bold new ventures that couldn’t weather the storm, these restaurant closures tell the story of a dining scene as dynamic as the island itself. Google Maps street view Lindencrest Diner Closing After 39 Years The Lindencrest Diner – located in Lindenhurst at 330 West Montauk Highway – announced it was closing after 39 years in business. Facebook // Stell…

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by Michael Mashburn
Business
Big Lots Reaches Deal To Keep Hundreds Of Stores Open Big Lots Reaches Deal To Keep Hundreds Of Stores Open
Big Lots Reaches Deal To Keep Hundreds Of Stores Open Big Lots has announced a major development following its September bankruptcy filing. The discount retail chain says it's entered a strategic agreement with Gordon Brothers Retail Partners and Variety Wholesalers to preserve the brand, save thousands of jobs, and keep hundreds of stores open. Variety Wholesalers, known for its portfolio of retail brands, plans to acquire between 200 and 400 Big Lots locations, along with up to two distribution centers. There are about 1,400 Big Lots stores nationwide. The transition ensures Big Lots can transfer key assets and maintain continuity of its br…

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by Joe Lombardi
Business
Warning Issued After Nationwide Recall Of Popular Candy Bar Warning Issued After Nationwide Recall Of Popular Candy Bar
Warning Issued After Nationwide Recall Of Popular Candy Bar Federal authorities have issued a nationwide warning after the recall of a popular candy bar. Gardners Candies, based in Tyrone, PA, has voluntarily recalled its Cappuccino Meltaway Bars due to undeclared tree nuts (cashews), posing a serious risk to those with allergies. What to Know: Affected Products: 1.25-ounce packages of Cappuccino Meltaway Bars. Distribution: Sold across the country through retail stores and mail orders starting Sunday, Sept. 1. Packaging: The bars are in white plastic wrappers marked with lot #082725 and an expiration date of Aug. 27, 2025. They can also be found …

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by Joe Lombardi
Business
Minimum Wage To Increase On Long Island: Here’s How Much Minimum Wage To Increase On Long Island: Here’s How Much
Minimum Wage To Increase On Long Island: Here’s How Much New Yorkers earning minimum wage will see an increase in their paychecks.  This change, which takes effective on Wednesday, Jan. 1, is part of a broader state initiative aimed at easing the financial burden of rising living costs. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the plan as part of a multi-year agreement with the state legislature.  In New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County, the hourly pay will increase from $16 to $16.50.  Meanwhile, the rest of the state will see a jump from $15 to $15.50.  Further annual adjustments linked to inflation will begin in 2027. …

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by Joe Lombardi