H&R Block Fined $7M For Deceptive 'Free' Filing Ads, Must Reform Tax Services: FTC H&R Block Fined $7M For Deceptive 'Free' Filing Ads, Must Reform Tax Services: FTC
H&R Block Fined $7M For Deceptive 'Free' Filing Ads, Must Reform Tax Services: FTC H&R Block will pay $7 million in federal fines for deceptive practices and must implement sweeping changes to its filing services in time for the 2025 tax season, officials said. H&R Block reached the settlement with the Federal Trade Commission, the agency announced in a news release on Wednesday, Jan. 8. The order requires the company to revamp its services and pay $7 million to compensate its customers. The settlement stemmed from a February 2024 complaint accusing H&R Block of forcing users to contact customer service to downgrade products. The tax filer was also a…
Delta Teams Up With Uber, Ending SkyMiles Rewards Partnership With Lyft Delta Teams Up With Uber, Ending SkyMiles Rewards Partnership With Lyft
Delta Teams Up With Uber, Ending SkyMiles Rewards Partnership With Lyft Delta will enter a new partnership with Uber and allow SkyMiles customers to earn rewards on rides, ending the airline's longtime relationship with Lyft, officials said. Delta Air Lines and Uber announced their new partnership at the CES 2025 trade show in Las Vegas on Tuesday, Jan. 7. SkyMiles members will be able to earn miles for eligible Uber riders and Uber Eats orders in the spring of 2025. The heads of the companies shared their excitement about the venture, saying that about 15 percent of all Uber ride bookings either begin or end at airports. "Delta is thrilled to come together wi…
Portnoy Hits DMV's 'Taj Mahal Of Pizza' On A Tip From Other Owners Portnoy Hits DMV's 'Taj Mahal Of Pizza' On A Tip From Other Owners
Portnoy Hits DMV's 'Taj Mahal Of Pizza' On A Tip From Other Owners El Presidente's tour of Maryland pizzerias continued with his latest video, after he being tipped off by the owners of his last stop who told him to try the pie at Pizza John's in Essex. Fresh off an overwhelmingly positive visit to Frank's Pizza & Pasta in Baltimore, whose owners directed them to the Essex eatery, Dave Portnoy made his way to what was described as the "Taj Mahal of Pizza Places" for the latest "One Bite" review. "This is a huge operation," he said. "So I get (the nickname) ... It's a big space."  Dave stops by the "Taj Mahal of Pizza Shops" and …
These Two Girl Scout Cookie Flavors Will Be Retired In 2025: How You Can Buy Them These Two Girl Scout Cookie Flavors Will Be Retired In 2025: How You Can Buy Them
These Two Girl Scout Cookie Flavors Will Be Retired In 2025: How You Can Buy Them If you love Girl Scout Cookies, 2025 is the last year you can buy two special flavors. The Girl Scouts of the USA said that it will retire its S’mores and Toast-Yay! cookies after this season. The organization made the announcement in a news release on Tuesday, Jan. 7 as it kicks off the 2025 Girl Scout Cookie season. S'mores cookies were introduced in 2017 and are made by Little Brownie Bakers. Just like the campfire classic, the Girl Scout version has a chocolate and marshmallow filling in between two graham sandwich cookies. The Toast-Yay! flavor was introduced in 2021 an…
2.5+ Million Teslas Investigated For Crashes Linked To Remote Driving Feature, NHTSA Says 2.5+ Million Teslas Investigated For Crashes Linked To Remote Driving Feature, NHTSA Says
2.5+ Million Teslas Investigated For Crashes Linked To Remote Driving Feature, Nhtsa Says A federal investigation has been launched into more than 2.5 million Tesla vehicles after reports of crashes involving a system that allows vehicles to be remotely controlled through a smartphone app, officials said. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened the probe into Tesla's "Actually Smart Summon" system on Monday, Jan. 6. A preliminary investigation report said the auto safety agency was looking into at least four crashes involving Teslas using the self-driving feature. The investigation includes an estimated 2,585,000 Teslas with full self-dri…
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…
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 …
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 …
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 …
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…
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…
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…
Here's How Much, When Minimum Wage Will Increase In Virginia Here's How Much, When Minimum Wage Will Increase In Virginia
Here's How Much, When Minimum Wage Will Increase In Virginia Virginia workers, can start getting ready for a small, but not insignificant pay bump in the new year. The state’s hourly minimum wage will increase to $12.41 starting Monday, Jan. 1, 2025, giving workers an extra 41 cents per hour.  "The new rate was calculated under the Virginia Minimum Wage Act, which mandates an annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U). "This measure, published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, tracks changes in the cost of goods and services, and for 2023, the CPI-U rose by 3.4 percent," Virginia Department of L…
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…
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 …
Recall Issued For Popular Frozen Vegetable Product Sold In VA Recall Issued For Popular Frozen Vegetable Product Sold In VA
Recall Issued For Popular Frozen Vegetable Product Sold In VA A popular frozen vegetable product is being recalled due to undeclared milk allergens, posing a risk to individuals with milk allergies. Key Details: Company: Lidl Product Name: “Taste of Deutschland Buttered Vegetables” Product Details: 10.5 oz box, UPC 4 056489 122876 Distribution Period: Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023 to Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024 States Affected: Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia Consumer Action: Do not consume the product. Return it to any Lidl store for a full refund; no rece…
FDA Elevates Costco Egg Recall Over Salmonella Concerns FDA Elevates Costco Egg Recall Over Salmonella Concerns
FDA Elevates Costco Egg Recall Over Salmonella Concerns The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised its recall alert for a brand of eggs to the highest level due to potential Salmonella contamination, which could lead to severe health risks or even death. The brand, Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs, were sold at Costco. This follows a voluntary recall initiated by New York City-based manufacturer Handsome Brook Farms in late November. Earlier Report: Cucumbers, Eggs Recalled Due To Risk Of Salmonella Contamination The affected eggs, bearing UPC 9661910680, Julian code 327, and a use-by date of Jan. 5, 2…
These Party City Stores To Shut Down In Maryland, Virginia Amid Massive Closure These Party City Stores To Shut Down In Maryland, Virginia Amid Massive Closure
These Party City Stores To Shut Down In Maryland, Virginia Amid Massive Closure Dozens of Party City locations in the DMV region are among the hundreds set to be closed as the company announced it is going out of business. Both Maryland and Virginia were hit hard by the reported closure, which will impact approximately 800 stores across the country. Party City was founded in 1986 and is the largest retailer of party goods in North America. In Maryland, there are 19 stores among those set to be shut down in these locations, according to the company's website:  Annapolis; Baltimore; Bel Air; Catonsville; Cockeysville; Columbia; Forestville; Frederick; Gaithersb…
Nissan, Honda Eye Potential Merger Nissan, Honda Eye Potential Merger
Nissan, Honda Eye Potential Merger Two of the world's biggest automakers may soon become one. Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to discuss a potential merger aimed at revolutionizing the future of mobility and electrification.  Announced on Monday, Dec. 23, the goal is to establish a joint holding company that could significantly impact the automotive landscape, and potentially make the combined corporation the world's third-largest auto manufacturer. The merger aims to accelerate initiatives for carbon neutrality and zero traffic fatalities by pooling reso…
Brewing Tensions: Starbucks Strike Expands To 9 States Brewing Tensions: Starbucks Strike Expands To 9 States
Brewing Tensions: Starbucks Strike Expands To 9 States A Starbucks workers' strike, which began in select stores, has expanded to nine states as employees push for better wages and working conditions during the holiday rush. The strike, led by Starbucks Workers United, demands higher pay and improved staffing to address what employees describe as chronic understaffing during peak hours.  Workers at dozens of stores in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania joined the strike over the weekend. Starbucks has a total of about 16,000 stores in the US and around 35,000 worldwide. Over the weekend, picket lines formed at high-traffic stores in N…
Party City Going Out Of Business, Closing All 800 Stores, Including 17 In VA Party City Going Out Of Business, Closing All 800 Stores, Including 17 In VA
Party City Going Out Of Business, Closing All 800 Stores, Including 17 In VA The party is over for a popular chain store that's been in business for decades. Party City is “winding down” operations immediately at its approximately 800 locations, CEO Barry Litwin told corporate employees  in a video call on Friday, Dec. 20, CNN reports. Workers were told they will not receive severance pay, and that their benefits would end as the company goes out of business, CNN says. The company, headquartered in in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, is running low on cash and unable to pay rent in some locations, according to an earlier Bloomberg report. Party City was foun…
Drugstore Deserts On Rise Amid Nationwide Pharmacy Closures Drugstore Deserts On Rise Amid Nationwide Pharmacy Closures
Drugstore Deserts On Rise Amid Nationwide Pharmacy Closures Nearly 30 percent of US pharmacies closed between 2010 and 2021, according to a new study in the health-policy publication Health Affairs. The research, led by University of California Berkeley assistant professor Jenny S. Guadamuz and colleagues, analyzed data from the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs, county health statistics, and ZIP Code demographic surveys.  Of the 88,930 retail pharmacies operating in 2010, almost one-third shuttered by 2021, with those in predominantly Black and Latino neighborhoods disproportionately affected, Independent pharmacies were hit ha…
Big Lots To Begin 'Going Out Of Business' Sales At Nearly 1,000 Remaining Stores Big Lots To Begin 'Going Out Of Business' Sales At Nearly 1,000 Remaining Stores
Big Lots To Begin 'Going Out Of Business' Sales At Nearly 1,000 Remaining Stores Big Lots has announced plans to close all of its remaining 963 stores, initiating "going out of business" sales following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September. The company says it's started the process of closing stores in 48 states and liquidating inventory under its court-supervised Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.  The decision comes as the retailer seeks to maximize value for stakeholders while exploring potential going-concern sale opportunities. "We all have worked extremely hard and have taken every step to complete a going concern sale," Big Lots' President and Chie…
Virginia Man Turns $2 Bet Into $500K Jackpot; Local Store Snags $10K Bonus Virginia Man Turns $2 Bet Into $500K Jackpot; Local Store Snags $10K Bonus
Virginia Man Turns $2 Bet Into $500K Jackpot; Local Store Snags $10K Bonus When Henrico resident Lorenzo Robinson snagged a $500,000 jackpot in the Virginia Lottery's Bank a Million game, he wasn’t the only one cashing in. Robinson hit all six winning numbers—4, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 29— and courtesy of his clever use of the "Play Your Way" feature, which split his $2 wager into two sets of numbers, he walked away with a cool half-million dollar jackpot win. Robinson’s ticket didn’t even need the Bonus Ball number—32—to seal the deal. The luck didn’t stop there.  The store where Robinson bought the ticket, Varina Market at on Darbytown Road, earned a $10,000 b…
Teamsters Union Launches Strike Against Amazon Teamsters Union Launches Strike Against Amazon
Teamsters Union Launches Strike Against Amazon As the holiday season peaks, the Teamsters Union has initiated a significant strike against Amazon, targeting facilities in four states. This action is described as the largest labor movement in the company’s history. On Thursday morning, December 19, union members began protests at a fulfillment center in Queens, New York, with additional strikes occurring in Atlanta, Southern California, and Skokie, Illinois. The union aims to highlight unacceptable working conditions and Amazon’s refusal to engage in collective bargaining.  Their demands include better wages, hours, and benefits fo…
End Of An Era: Here's When Firehook Bakery Plans To Close Its Doors In The DMV End Of An Era: Here's When Firehook Bakery Plans To Close Its Doors In The DMV
End Of An Era: Here's When Firehook Bakery Plans To Close Its Doors In The DMV Soon to be gone, but not forgotten. Firehook Bakery, a staple for DMV foodies, announced that it will be closing all three of its bakeries in the region effective as of Tuesday, Dec. 24, though their presence in the area will live on through their beloved products. "As a result of the store closings, as of Dec. 24, we will no longer be selling the specialty items offered at the bakeries on-line, but will continue to sell our full range of Mediterranean Baked Crackers," officials at the store said. This is what we really mean when we say we’re running to the store for ‘one last thing.’ …
Youngkin Proposes Cutting State Income Tax On Tips To Help Virginia Service Workers Youngkin Proposes Cutting State Income Tax On Tips To Help Virginia Service Workers
Youngkin Proposes Cutting State Income Tax On Tips To Help Virginia Service Workers Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin is pushing to cut state income tax on tips for workers, a proposal he says will put millions of dollars back into the pockets of hardworking employees. Youngkin’s budget plan, announced Tuesday, Dec. 17, could mean an extra $70 million annually for service industry workers across the Commonwealth, including food servers, hair stylists, and hotel staff, he said. “We have delivered over $5 billion in tax relief to date, and we remain committed to lowering the cost of living for hardworking Virginians. It’s their money, not the government’s,” Youngkin said. The ta…
Amazon Dismissed Warnings On High Rates Of Worker Injuries, Report Says Amazon Dismissed Warnings On High Rates Of Worker Injuries, Report Says
Amazon Dismissed Warnings On High Rates Of Worker Injuries, Report Says ityAmazon is under fire following a US Senate report accusing the company of prioritizing speed over worker safety.  Released by the majority staff of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee late Sunday night, Dec. 15, the report claims Amazon’s intense focus on productivity has led to unsafe working conditions. The Senate report outlines how Amazon’s warehouse workers face high rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and other injuries caused by repetitive tasks and demanding quotas.  It accuses Amazon of knowingly exposing employees to these risks, …
Shake Shack Offers Free Burgers With Purchase During Holiday Promotion Shake Shack Offers Free Burgers With Purchase During Holiday Promotion
Shake Shack Offers Free Burgers With Purchase During Holiday Promotion Shake Shack is launching a limited-time promotion offering free burgers with a qualifying purchase during the holiday season.  The “Holiday Burger Blitz” will run from Monday, Dec. 16, to Tuesday, Dec. 24, providing customers with a free burger each day when they spend a minimum of $10 and use the code BURGERBLITZ at checkout. The promotion features a different burger each day, including popular items like the ShackBurger, SmokeShack, and Avocado Bacon Burger. The schedule for the free offerings is as follows: Monday, Dec. 16: ShackBurger Tuesday, Dec. 17: SmokeShack Wednesday, Dec. …
Cyberattack Hits Krispy Kreme As Hackers Find Hole In Online Ordering System Cyberattack Hits Krispy Kreme As Hackers Find Hole In Online Ordering System
Cyberattack Hits Krispy Kreme As Hackers Find Hole In Online Ordering System Hackers have found a hole in Krispy Kreme's online ordering system, leaving some customers temporarily unable to place digital orders for their favorite donuts.  The company has confirmed the incident and stated that its technical team is actively working to resolve the issue. Krispy Kreme reported that the breach influenced its web-based platforms but did not affect in-store operations or the safety of customers' personal data.  The attack was first discovered at the end of November, the company said in a filing with Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). Krispy Kreme said it "i…
Here's How Much, When Minimum Wage Will Increase In Virginia Here's How Much, When Minimum Wage Will Increase In Virginia
Here's How Much, When Minimum Wage Will Increase In Virginia Virginia workers, can start getting ready for a small, but not insignificant pay bump in the new year. The state’s hourly minimum wage will increase to $12.41 starting Monday, Jan. 1, 2025, giving workers an extra 41 cents per hour.  "The new rate was calculated under the Virginia Minimum Wage Act, which mandates an annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U). "This measure, published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, tracks changes in the cost of goods and services, and for 2023, the CPI-U rose by 3.4 percent," Virginia Department of L…