Taylor Farms Texas of Dallas, Texas, is recalling products containing onions.
The products may be contaminated with Salmonella.
There are no reports of illnesses to date.
A list of the recalled products, distributed from July 30, 2020 through August 1, 2020, may be found here.
Customers who purchased the recalled products should not consume them, but discard them immediately.
Consumers with question may call the company at (855) 455-0098 from 9 am – 5 pm (CST) Monday through Friday.
Taylor Farms Texas of Dallas, Texas, is recalling products containing onions. The products may be contaminated with Salmonella. There are no reports ...
Coronavirus (COVID-19) tally as compiled by Johns Hopkins University. (Previous numbers in parentheses.)
Total U.S. confirmed cases: 5,258,056 (5,204,792)
Total U.S. deaths: 167,298 (166,148)
Total global cases: 20,967,027 (20,672,105)
Total global deaths: 760,461 (750,490)
Being required to stay at home to avoid getting the coronavirus (COVID-19) is inconvenient for most, but it’s downright dangerous if your household includes an abusive or violent partner.
In a new study published in Radiology, a team led by investigators at Brigham and Women's Hospital assessed the pattern of injuries related to intimate partner violence (IPV) in patients at the hospital during the spring of 2020. When compared to injuries over the previous three years, they found an alarming increase in physical injuries associated with IPV this year.
"Radiologists and other health care providers should proactively participate in identifying IPV victims and reach out to vulnerable communities as an essential service during the pandemic and other crisis situations," said the principal investigator and the corresponding author Dr. Bharti Khurana.
The coronavirus pandemic is apparently not preventing consumers from reaching for their credit cards. The Commerce Department reports that retail sales grew by 1.2 percent in July.
While it reflects growth in spending, the increase is about half of what most economists expected. It’s also significantly lower than June’s 8.4 percent increase.
The big winners were online retailers, who have seen sales increase by nearly 25 percent in the last year. Supermarkets, liquor stores, and wine shops, are also coming out ahead with an 11.1 percent increase in sales.
Nursing homes have been major centers of COVID-19 outbreaks, but a Wall Street Journal report says most states are failing to do all they can to protect residents.
Its investigation learned that half of all states do not require state inspectors, who regularly visit nursing homes to make sure they are meeting state standards, to be tested for the coronavirus before they visit.
The Journal found at least 26 states don’t require regular testing, though some, including New Hampshire and New Jersey, said they offer it on a voluntary basis.
The coronavirus has a number of wide-ranging symptoms, but one common effect reported by people who get the virus is the loss of the senses of smell and taste. But why? Assistant Professor Jessica Grayson, M.D., at the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) provides insight into why this might be happening.
“If the nose is congested or full of polyps, then the odorant particulates cannot reach the olfactory fibers, which sense the smell and communicate with the brain,” she said. “In other instances, the nose looks relatively normal, but there is local inflammation in the olfactory mucosa that leads to adverse effects on smell.”
In people suffering with obesity, there is also an increased risk of potential smell loss due to benign intracranial hypertension, which causes thinning of the skull base.
While the pandemic has devastated some industries, others have flourished, including companies making hydrometer test kits used for alcohol brewing. But it’s not likely that many homebound consumers are making moonshine.
Brewing America, which makes the kits, says sales have doubled compared to before the pandemic because consumers are making their own hand sanitizer at home.
"We are seeing a huge jump in the home hand sanitizer making trend, something we did not expect,” said company CEO Kyle Hove. “This is causing an enormous impact on our market and the hydrometer industry right now. The population is finding uses for hydrometers beyond the traditional home-brewing."
California: Democrats in the legislature are proposing the creation of a new financial services watchdog agency to protect consumers. They worry that the economic effects of the pandemic are leaving many people vulnerable to predatory lenders.
Alabama: Children in Alabama are heading back to the classroom for the fall term, but it’s not without some complications. Education officials say schools are being required to quarantine teachers and students after positive coronavirus cases are reported.
Kentucky: Gov. Andy Beshear is pleading with school districts across the state not to defy his order delaying the start of in-classroom instruction. "While we are desperate to get our kids back, I also want it to work," he said.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) tally as compiled by Johns Hopkins University. (Previous numbers in parentheses.)Total U.S. confirmed cases: 5,258,056 (5,204,79...
When Congress failed to reach a compromise last week on a new coronavirus (COVID-19) relief package, it was hoped that lawmakers would work something out this week. They haven’t.
The Senate has now joined the House on a month-long vacation after taking no action to help millions of Americans cope with the economic impact of the pandemic. Nearly 51 million Americans are unemployed. Until July 31, many were getting an extra $600 a week from the federal government to supplement state benefits. That’s now gone.
Besides employees who have been laid off, many small business owners are also feeling the pinch. Last month, Yelp estimated that 55 percent of the businesses that closed will never reopen.
Until the end of July, there was also a moratorium in place to prevent people from being evicted from their homes while they got back on their feet. That provision has also expired.
Congress appears to agree that Americans impacted by the coronavirus need additional help. But that’s as far as the agreement goes. By their own admission, Republicans and Democrats are extremely far apart in their effort to craft an economic aid package.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) says she doesn’t know when talks will resume, but she told reporters that Democrats have one requirement -- that Republicans agree to spend at least $2 trillion for the total package. The original Democratic aid bill passed by the House in March called for spending $3.5 trillion.
Republicans have proposed a $1 trillion package and have criticized the Democrats’ bill, accusing lawmakers on the other side of the aisle of loading it down with non-aid provisions.
White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow told CNBC that Democrats are asking for “too much money” and insisting on unrelated provisions, such as making it safer for people to vote during the pandemic, calling it part of “liberal, left wish lists” that won’t fly at the White House.
“So far, it’s a stalemate,” Kudlow said.
The two sides are also very far apart on basic things like food assistance. Pelosi says Democrats are calling for more than $60 billion to provide food assistance but claims a Republican counter-measure called for only $250,000.
Pelosi also said the $3 trillion House bill passed in May included $100 billion to help people pay their rent and mortgages, but she says the Senate measure did not include any additional funds.
The rhetoric became more heated this week, not a good sign for consumers hoping for an additional lifeline from Washington. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) appeared to suggest that Democrats started bargaining with an inflated number so they could appear reasonable by settling for a lower amount.
Political realities may be having undue influence on the standoff. Pelosi candidly confirms that the House won’t consider spending anything less than $2 trillion. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has called $2 trillion “a non-starter.”
In an election year, when neither side believes it should compromise, the outlook for the millions of Americans who could use some help, as the virus shows no sign of abating, doesn’t appear all that promising.
When Congress failed to reach a compromise last week on a new coronavirus (COVID-19) relief package, it was hoped that lawmakers would work something out t...
An appeals court has ruled that Amazon can be held liable for any defective product sold on its Marketplace, at least in California.
The backstory behind the decision is rather simple: an Amazon customer purchased a laptop battery from a third-party seller on Amazon. Amazon charged the customer for the purchase and then retrieved and shipped the laptop battery to the customer in Amazon-branded packaging. However, the customer alleges that the battery exploded several months later, causing third-degree burns.
The customer sued everyone related to the product, including Amazon and the third-party seller. The suit claimed causes of action for strict products liability, negligent products liability, breach of implied warranty, breach of express warranty, and “negligence/negligent undertaking.”
The third-party seller was served a summons to appear but never showed up, leaving a wrinkle that Amazon used to move for summary judgment, arguing that the product liability didn’t apply to it because it had nothing to do with distributing, manufacturing, or selling the defective battery. It claimed its website was nothing more than an “online marketplace” and that it was the third-party seller that should be held responsible instead.
The trial court agreed, granted Amazon’s motion, and entered judgment accordingly in 2019. But the decision reached Thursday by the appeals court reverses that ruling and brings into question whether Amazon will be held liable for other defective products in the future.
Unless the appeals court’s ruling is undone by another court, the fact that Amazon -- or any online consumer goods platform -- is responsible in a situation like the one detailed above could carry a grim outlook.
For years, Amazon has maintained that it only serves as a go-between in a sale between a buyer and a third-party seller that operates on the Amazon Marketplace. Taking that posture has protected the company from other legal actions, but now that could all change.
Appeals court says Amazon can be liable for third-party sellers’ defective productsThe decision could have great consequences for online retailers goin...
American Airlines is said to be considering a reduction in flights to as many as 30 smaller U.S. cities if a federal requirement to continue those flights expires at the end of September.
Citing an airline official familiar with the matter, the New York Post reports that American only agreed to keep serving those smaller cities because it was an essential condition in receiving $5.8 billion in coronavirus aid. However, American is keeping mum on if this is a chess move designed to put added pressure on Congress and the White House to give airlines another $25 billion for labor costs and salaries.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the American Airlines official did not specify exactly which cities might lose service. However, according to the Post, the changes could appear in schedules as early as next week.
After taking a 95 percent tumble in April, air travel in the U.S. has rebounded a bit but is still a far cry from 2019. As an example, there were 590,749 travelers who went through a TSA checkpoint on Wednesday compared to 2,391,906 who were screened on the same day a year ago, according to TSA data.
As global business confidence started to rebound in May, the airlines’ outlook started to look hopeful. “Given the historical relationship between business sentiment and air passenger volumes, this rebound would normally bode well for the air travel outlook,” wrote economists at the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
“However, these are far from normal times; limited corporate travel budgets, the increased use of online conferencing, continued international travel restrictions and ongoing health (and duty of care) concerns all contribute to a weakened relationship between business confidence and air travel at present.”
The IATA went on to say that it really comes down to consumer sentiment. If that factor remains subdued, airlines will have to concern themselves about rising unemployment and the continuity of government support programs in the months ahead.
Airlines aren’t sitting around waiting for the $419 billion in total revenue they’ve lost to magically appear. Both airlines and their affiliated labor unions are lobbying for another chunk of relief funds to get them through April 2021. They reportedly have half of the House of Representatives on their side, including more than 20 Republicans, and at least a dozen Republicans in the Senate. President Trump also recognizes the airlines’ pain.
“Obviously the airline business is not doing very well,” he said when asked about the issue at a news briefing last week. “I would be certainly in favor. We can’t lose our transportation system.”
American Airlines is said to be considering a reduction in flights to as many as 30 smaller U.S. cities if a federal requirement to continue those flights...
When you take down a post or photo from a social media site, you might expect it to be gone for good. But one cybersecurity expert found this wasn’t the case for some content posted on Instagram.
TechCrunch reports that security researcher Saugat Pokharel recently dug into his own data on the social media platform and found that messages and pictures he had deleted over a year before were still present on Instagram’s servers. After notifying the platform, he received $6,000 under Instagram’s bug bounty program for bringing the issue to light.
“The researcher reported an issue where someone’s deleted Instagram images and messages would be included in a copy of their information if they used our Download Your Information tool on Instagram. We’ve fixed the issue and have seen no evidence of abuse. We thank the researcher for reporting this issue to us,” an Instagram spokesperson told TechCrunch.
What Pokharel did to find this cybersecurity issue isn’t something that’s beyond any other Instagram user. The Download Your Information tool was introduced back in 2018 to allow the platform to comply with data information policies established under the European Union’s GDPR rule.
Instagram states that it usually takes around 90 days for deleted content to be removed from its servers, but users can check out the tool for themselves to see exactly what personal information is being stored on the site.
Consumers can find directions on how to access the tool on Instagram’s help page here.
When you take down a post or photo from a social media site, you might expect it to be gone for good. But one cybersecurity expert found this wasn’t the ca...
Researchers have discovered vulnerabilities in Amazon’s digital assistant, Alexa.
In a report published Thursday, researchers from Check Point said they found that attackers could exploit a flaw in Amazon’s Alexa that could enable them to extract personal information.
“We conducted this research to highlight how securing these devices is critical to maintaining users’ privacy,” wrote Oded Vanunu, head of products vulnerabilities research at Check Point. “Alexa has concerned us for a while now, given its ubiquity and connection to IoT devices. It’s these mega digital platforms that can hurt us the most. Therefore, their security levels are of crucial importance.”
The team said they found several web application flaws on Alexa-related subdomains, including Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) and Cross-Site Scripting (XSS).
The presence of these vulnerabilities could enable attackers to access personal information like home addresses or banking data, remotely install or remove skills on a user’s Alexa account, or extract the victim’s voice history.
“Successful exploitation would have required just one click on an Amazon link that has been specially crafted by the attacker,” said Dikla Barda, of Checkpoint Research, who helped discover the vulnerabilities.
The team noted that Amazon doesn’t record users’ banking login credentials, but that information could be extracted via recorded interactions with the smart assistant.
“Since we have access to the chat history, we can access the victim’s interaction with the bank skill and get their data history,” said researchers. “We can also get usernames and phone numbers, depending on the skills installed on the user’s Alexa account.”
Given how many consumers use virtual assistants, Check Point said these devices are “attractive targets to attackers looking to steal private and sensitive information, or to disrupt an individual’s smart home environment.”
“Smart speakers and virtual assistants are so commonplace that it’s easy to overlook just how much personal data they hold, and their role in controlling other smart devices in our homes,” Vanunu said. “But hackers see them as entry points into peoples’ lives, giving them the opportunity to access data, eavesdrop on conversations or conduct other malicious actions without the owner being aware.”
These devices “must be kept secured at all times to keep hackers from infiltrating our smart homes,” the researchers added.
Researchers have discovered vulnerabilities in Amazon’s digital assistant, Alexa. In a report published Thursday, researchers from Check Point said the...
While many consumers worry about the best time to neuter their dogs, a new study conducted by researchers from the University of California Davis is exploring risk factors certain breeds could face if owners decide to neuter too early.
According to their findings, bigger dogs are at the biggest risk of facing health complications following the neutering procedure; however, timing is also key. The researchers explained that spaying or neutering before a dog is one year old can increase the likelihood of joint disorders in larger breeds.
“Most dogs are mixed breeds,” said researcher Benjamin Hart. “We hope this study will influence the spay or neuter process in order to give people wishing to adopt a puppy the time to make an informed decision on when to spay or neuter.”
To better understand the risks associated with premature neutering, the researchers analyzed 15 years worth of data from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. The researchers assessed when the dogs were neutered, their breed and weight, and any associated complications or risks that were associated with the procedure.
The study revealed that dogs that typically weigh upwards of 40 pounds are at the biggest risk of health complications following an early neuter or spay procedure.
Joint disorders were the most common side effect for larger dogs who were spayed or neutered before their first birthday. The study revealed that the likelihood of a joint disorder was 12 percent more likely for a dog that weighs over 40 pounds and was spayed or neutered at less than one year old. Conversely, dogs of the same weight that weren’t spayed or neutered had just a four percent chance of developing a joint disorder.
“The study raises unique challenges,” said researcher Lynette Hart. “People like to adopt puppies from shelters, but with mixed breeds it may become difficult to determine just how big the dog will become if you don’t know anything about the dog’s parents.”
Moving forward, the researchers are calling for a change in policies regarding spaying and neutering young dogs. They explained that many shelters won’t allow consumers to adopt dogs without first getting them spayed or neutered -- regardless of how old they are or how much they weigh.
However, this study made it clear that the procedure can negatively impact larger dogs’ day-to-day lives, and it’s important that each dog’s unique situation be taken into consideration before performing a procedure that could lead to serious health complications.
“They need to take a serious look at this,” said Lynette Hart. “Joint disorders can shorten a dog’s useful working life and impact its role as a family member.”
While many consumers worry about the best time to neuter their dogs, a new study conducted by researchers from the University of California Davis is explor...
Following a two-year investigation, the Department of Justice has concluded that Yale University’s undergraduate admissions process “illegally discriminates” against White and Asian American students.
In a letter sent Thursday, the DOJ informed university officials that it found that Yale “discriminates based on race and national origin in its undergraduate admissions process, and that race is the determinative factor in hundreds of admissions decisions each year.”
The investigation was launched in response to a complaint filed by Asian American groups. Upon completion of the investigation, the DOJ said it found that race was “the determinative factor in hundreds of admissions decisions each year.”
Based on that fact, the DOJ argues that the Ivy League school is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
"Yale grants substantial, and often determinative, preferences based on race to certain racially-favored applicants and relatively and significantly disfavors other applicants because of their race," the letter said. “Yale’s race discrimination imposes undue and unlawful penalties on racially-disfavored applicants, including in particular Asian American and White applicants."
In a statement, Yale denied the allegation and called it “meritless” and “hasty.” The school said it stands by its admissions practices.
"At Yale, we look at the whole person when selecting whom to admit among the many thousands of highly qualified applicants," the statement said. "We take into consideration a multitude of factors, including their academic achievement, interests, demonstrated leadership, background, success in taking maximum advantage of their secondary school and community resources, and the likelihood that they will contribute to the Yale community and the world."
A spokesperson for the university said the DOJ made the allegation before Yale had a chance to provide all the information the Department requested.
"Had the Department fully received and fairly weighed this information, it would have concluded that Yale's practices absolutely comply with decades of Supreme Court precedent,” the spokesperson said.
Nonetheless, the DOJ said that if Yale plans to use race as criteria in the future, the school “must first submit to the Department of Justice a plan demonstrating its proposal is narrowly tailored as required by law, including by identifying a date for the end of race discrimination.”
Following a two-year investigation, the Department of Justice has concluded that Yale University’s undergraduate admissions process “illegally discriminate...
Antibiotic resistance is a widespread issue, as some superbugs have adapted to withstand the antibacterial powers of hand sanitizer.
Now, researchers from the University of Georgia are looking at how environmental factors could play a role in antibiotic resistance. According to their findings, pollution could increase the incidence of antibiotic resistance nationwide.
“The overuse of antibiotics in the environment adds additional selection pressure on microorganisms that accelerates their ability to resist multiple classes of antibiotics,” said researcher Jesse C. Thomas IV. “But antibiotics aren’t the only source of selection pressure. Many bacteria possess genes that simultaneously work on multiple compounds that would be toxic to the cell, and this includes metals.”
To understand how pollution can affect antibiotic resistance, the researchers analyzed soil samples from four spots in South Carolina. They evaluated the genetic make-up of the soil in order to determine any present bacteria that could be resistant to antibiotics.
The researchers also paid particularly close attention to the effect of metals in the samples, as heavy metals aren’t biodegradable. This means that the effects of such contamination can last indefinitely. Ultimately, the team learned that the soil samples that were most contaminated by heavy metals were the most likely to contain antibiotic resistant bacteria.
The study also revealed that there was a great deal of overlap between antibiotic-resistant genes and metal-resistant genes within the samples. This is important because heavy metals are often associated with antibiotic resistance, so this likely amplifies the resistance to traditional treatment methods.
Specifically, the researchers found that these soil samples resisted the powers of three commonly used antibiotics that are used to treat infections: polymyxin, vancomycin, and bacitracin.
Though the researchers plan to do more research on the relationship between metal resistance and antibiotic resistance, these findings are important because they can help identify how actions associated with pollution can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
“We need a better understanding of how bacteria are evolving over time,” said Thomas. “This can impact our drinking water and our food and eventually our health.”
Antibiotic resistance is a widespread issue, as some superbugs have adapted to withstand the antibacterial powers of hand sanitizer. Now, researchers f...
In the 1960s, gas prices hardly budged from one week to the next. Late July and early August have been almost like going back in time.
The AAA Fuel Gauge Survey shows that the national average price of regular gas is $2.17 a gallon, down a penny from last Friday. The average price of premium gas is $2.78 a gallon, also one cent less than a week ago. The average price of diesel fuel is $2.42 a gallon, the same as last week.
Gas prices are about two cents a gallon less than they were four weeks ago. Most people are still working from home, and when they’ve taken car trips this summer, they’ve stayed fairly close to home.
Prices could fall even more as we get into the Autumn months. Jeanette Casselano, a AAA spokesperson, says there’s nothing on the horizon, other than the possibility of a Gulf hurricane, which could push prices higher.
“Gas prices have high potential to push cheaper, especially with many school districts planning for virtual learning,” she said. “This could drive demand down in the weeks ahead as school starts at-home.”
At mid-week the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that demand ticked up a bit in the previous week, but oil refineries operated at only 81 percent of capacity. In normal times, they operate at around 96 percent capacity.
Demand for fuel increased to 19.37 million barrels per day last week, the highest since March. That had the effect of drawing down inventories, which could keep prices from falling further.
These states currently have the highest prices for regular gas, according to the AAA Fuel Gauge Survey:
Hawaii ($3.25)
California ($3.19)
Washington ($2.80)
Oregon ($2.65)
Nevada ($2.65)
Alaska ($2.52)
Utah ($2.45)
Idaho ($2.43)
Pennsylvania ($2.43)
Colorado ($2.40)
The survey found these states currently have the lowest prices for regular gas:
Mississippi ($1.82)
Louisiana ($1.85)
Arkansas ($1.86)
Texas ($1.87)
Alabama ($1.87)
Oklahoma ($1.88)
Missouri ($1.88)
South Carolina ($1.90)
Tennessee ($1.90)
North Carolina ($1.96)
In the 1960s, gas prices hardly budged from one week to the next. Late July and early August have been almost like going back in time.The AAA Fuel Gaug...
Ford Motor Company is recalling about 3,600 model year 2020 Lincoln Corsairs.
The vehicles may have insufficient clearance between the left and right rear coil springs and the toe link bracket. This may result in a condition in which the spring and bracket touch, potentially wearing away the protective coating on the coil spring.
Over time, corrosion due to removal of the protective coating may reduce the full life of the spring and may result in fracture of the spring.
A fractured rear coil spring may separate from the vehicle and cause a potential road hazard for traffic following behind, increasing the likelihood of a crash for other vehicles.
There are no reports of accidents or injuries.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles for proper clearance between the toe link bracket and rear coil spring. If needed, the toe link bracket edge will be trimmed, and a new coil spring will be installed.
Owners may contact Ford customer service at (866) 436-7332. Ford's reference number for this recall is 20S41.
Ford Motor Company is recalling about 3,600 model year 2020 Lincoln Corsairs. The vehicles may have insufficient clearance between the left and right re...
Thule Group of Sweden is recalling about 4,900 Thule Sleek strollers sold in the U.S., and Canada.
The handlebar can detach, posing an injury hazard to children.
The firm has received one report of the stroller’s handlebar detaching. No injuries have been reported.
This recall involves Thule Sleek strollers sold in black, dark gray, light gray, navy blue and red with a silver or black frame.
Only strollers without a QC2020 sticker next to the product label and manufactured between May 2018, through September 2019, are included in this recall.
The manufacture date code in YY/MM format, Thule Sleek and product number: 11000001-5, 11000017, 11000330 or 11000337-342 can be found on the product label located on the lower inside frame of the stroller.
UPC code 091021978485, 091021883703, 091021460256, 091021761773, 091021079779, 091021070585, 091021349001, 091021433137, 091021514386, 091021037090,091021091900, 091021648937 or 091021190214 can be found on the product packaging.
The strollers, manufactured in Poland, were sold at Buy Buy Baby, REI and others stores nationwide and online at Thule.com and Amazon.com from July 2018, through June 2020, for between $830 and $850.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled strollers and contact Thule Group to arrange for the return of the product and to receive a free replacement Sleek stroller frame.
Consumers may contact Thule Group toll-free at (855) 929-3531 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday, by email at thulesleek18@thule.com or online at www.thule.com/recallthulesleek or www.thule.com and click on “Product Recall” at the bottom of the page for more information.
Thule Group of Sweden is recalling about 4,900 Thule Sleek strollers sold in the U.S., and Canada. The handlebar can detach, posing an injury hazard to ...
Gold and other precious metal IRAs are an investment and carry risk. Consumers should be alert to claims that customers can make a lot of money in these or any investment with little risk. As with any investment, you can lose money and past performance is not a guarantee of future performance results. Consumers should also obtain a clear understanding of the fees associated with any investment before agreeing to invest.
Many people back their retirement savings with gold or other precious metals to diversify their investments in case the economy falters. A gold IRA could be a smart option for several reasons, but we recommend that you thoroughly analyze and discuss any investment decision with a trusted financial advisor. Here are our top reasons you may want to explore a gold IRA account.
Investors like gold because it typically does well when the U.S. dollar weakens. Even as the economy faltered during lockdown earlier this year, gold went up in value. Gold was selling for $1,519 an ounce at the end of 2019, but it increased to $1,732 an ounce in May 2020. As of mid-August, the price of gold is hovering around $2,000.
Additionally, the price of gold roughly doubled between 2008 and 2012 during the Great Recession. Although the difference between gold and the money market fluctuates depending on several factors — such as when the Federal Reserve changes interest rates — it may be a good idea to diversify up to 10% of your retirement portfolio with gold.
Just like regular retirement accounts, there are traditional and Roth gold IRAs.
Many investment professionals disagree on which is better, and individuals have different reasons for choosing one over the other.
With a rollover, you can convert a portion of your existing 401(k) or traditional retirement account into a gold IRA. There aren’t any penalties or fines since a custodian handles the process.
It may be advantageous to roll over those funds into an account backed by gold. However, it can be confusing because there are many IRS rules for transfers and rollovers. Be sure to discuss the process with your financial advisor.
If you’re interested in learning more about gold IRAs, an excellent next step is to research gold IRA companies.
Reasons to consider opening a gold IRA...
The following companies participate in our Authorized Partner Program: Sunpower, Zenernet, Sunlux and Vivint Solar.
Since the industrial revolution, our use of energy and greenhouse gases has exponentially increased. Fortunately, the latest research and technology can help curb our dependence on non-renewable energy. Making energy-efficient upgrades may cut back on energy consumption and saves you some serious coin in the long run.
Local government and public service companies often offer cash rebate programs for residents who install new, energy-efficient equipment or cooling systems. Some programs let homeowners make multiple upgrades at once for even more savings. Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) to find policies and incentives in your area for solar panels and other household upgrades.
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Smart thermostats track your preferences, schedule and local climate to cool and heat your space in the most energy-efficient way. You can use an app to control the thermostat remotely. Climate control is one of the most significant energy users in most homes.
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Tracking your energy consumption is an easy way to discover how you’re wasting electricity throughout your home. There are several ways for you to track your energy usage, including:
By tracking your energy consumption, you might be shocked by how much energy you could save!
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Infrared heating is a great way to go if you’re trying to save on heating. Also called radiant floor heating, it transfers heat from the air around you to a specific object. This process uses 100% of the energy produced, so nothing is wasted. It’s also a simpler alternative to some other heating options — no need for complex fuels, filters, ducts or pumps!
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If you have an older water heater that isn't insulated, invest in a blanket! Studies show that a water heater blanket can reduce standby heat by up to 25% or 45%, meaning you can save up to 7% or 16% on water heating costs.
These blankets can be incredibly inexpensive and some utility companies even provide them at no charge! Just remember to check for any leaks around your older water heater before installing — if that is the case, you may need a replacement.
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You probably already know about outdoor motion sensors for lighting, but you may not be aware of occupancy sensors that can monitor the inside of your house. They automatically turn on if they sense motion and flip off once people leave the room.
For instance, if you keep forgetting to turn off the bathroom or bedroom lights, then motion detector sensors could be just the thing to help you save that extra electricity from being wasted. These indoor sensors are fantastic for task-focused activities like cooking or cleaning.
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With these products, you can make a real impact by simply using less energy. If you want to take greater control of your energy-saving powers, you may want to invest in solar panels. To learn more, take a look at our solar energy guide.
Energy-saving tips for your home...
Consumer complaints continue to pour in at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). For the fifth month in a row, gripes from consumers set a new monthly complaint volume record, according to an analysis by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) and the Frontier Group.
At the top of consumer grievances are gripes about credit reporting. Actually, credit reporting beefs have been one of the chief complaints historically, but the total number of complaints in this category rose by 86 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a percentage of total complaints overall, credit reports accounted for 65 percent in July, up from 54 percent in February when the pandemic was still in diapers.
PIRG researchers point out that the accuracy of credit reports is a delicate barometer for consumers since credit reporting agencies essentially act as gatekeepers to financial or employment opportunities.
As many consumers know, it’s almost impossible to get a line of credit, a loan, or the thumbs-up to buy anything on a payment plan without creditors reviewing a credit report or credit score. PIRG also notes that while most consumers aren’t aware of it, landlords, insurers, and even employers are now using credit reports as background checks and justification.
The recent spike in credit reporting complaints was driven by nearly twice the number of consumers complaining about incorrect information in a credit report. Nearly three out of four -- 75 percent -- of those complaints claim that information on a consumer’s credit report actually belongs to someone else. To make matters worse, the number of subsequent complaints about dead-end investigations into inaccurate reports have also shot up.
ConsumerAffairs reached out to PIRG to get some pro-consumer advice when an inaccurate credit report leaves a consumer twisting in the wind. Ed Mierzwinski, U.S. PIRG Senior Director for Consumer Programs, said that consumers should check their credit reports for mistakes, especially if they’re seeking new credit in the future.
“You can generally see your credit report for free, especially during the pandemic. You'll need to file disputes with both the credit bureau(s) at fault and the company that made the alleged mistake,” Mierzwinski told ConsumerAffairs.
“If you also file a complaint with the CFPB, you'll have a better chance of getting action to resolve your problem. The CFPB doesn't take over your complaint, but it requires followup by both the credit bureau(s) and the company, and that means you've gotten their attention."
When Americans started getting their stimulus payments from the federal government to cope with the coronavirus, some recipients quickly found out that those payments could be seized by debt collectors if they were in debt.
Some Senators called foul, but nothing was done to keep the credit wolves from the consumer’s door.
But, like they say, it’s not over ‘til it’s over. The House-passed Heroes Act (HR6800) includes a section (Sec.110402) that will ban debt collection during a natural disaster, including the pandemic. If the Senate does not pass HR6800, PIRG suggests that the Senate should include a ban on debt collection in its next pandemic response package.
Consumer complaints continue to pour in at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). For the fifth month in a row, gripes from consumers set a new m...
Coronavirus (COVID-19) tally as compiled by Johns Hopkins University. (Previous numbers in parentheses.)
Total U.S. confirmed cases: 5,204,792 (5,161,612)
Total U.S. deaths: 166,148 (164,994)
Total global cases: 20,672,105 (20,412,501)
Total global deaths: 750,490 (744,211)
On Wednesday, the COVID-19 Tracking Project at Johns Hopkins University reported more than 1,500 deaths from the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the U.S., making it the deadliest single day for the virus in more than two months.
The spike in deaths follows a jump in reported cases that began in mid-June and has only begun to decline. Health policymakers say deaths usually lag cases because many victims who eventually die remain hospitalized for weeks.
The Labor Department reports that new claims for unemployment benefits last week totaled 963,000 -- the first time claims have been under 1 million since the economy shut down in late March.
In the week ending August 8, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims fell by 228,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised up by 5,000 from 1,186,000 to 1,191,000.
Despite the improvement, unemployment remains historically high and is providing a drag on the economy. The jobless rate in July was 10.2 percent. Making life even more difficult for those on unemployment is the fact that relief under the CARES Act expired at the end of July and Congress has been unable to agree on extending it.
If it isn’t clear by now, Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) wants to drive home the point. Follow coronavirus safety procedures or risk having the worst public health disaster in history this fall.
In an interview with WebMD, Redfield says Americans have to do four simple things -- wear a mask, social distance, wash your hands, and be smart about crowds.
"I'm not asking some of America to do it," he said. "We all gotta do it."
The migration from the cities to the suburbs appears to be picking up steam, especially in New York City. What appeared at first to be a trickle of people moving out of the city now looks like a tidal wave.
CNBC reports that the number of vacant apartments available for rent in Manhattan has reached its highest level in recent history, exceeding 13,000. In the wake of the coronavirus and civil unrest, residents appear to be fleeing the city.
As a result, the normally pricey real estate is being offered at relatively bargain rates. Landlords are reportedly offering nearly two months free rent to lure in tenants.
School district leaders have agonized over whether to reopen classrooms this fall. Those who have decided to allow in-person education have presented parents with a decision of their own -- how to get their children to school.
A survey by Cars.com suggests that the inconvenience of driving their kids to school is an acceptable alternative for many parents who want to avoid exposing their children to crowded school buses. Fifty-five percent of parents say they plan to drive their children to and from school.
“Interestingly, we're seeing a significant increase in the number of families planning to carpool with friends or neighbors, which may mean parents feel it's still a safer alternative to the school bus," said Jenni Newman, editor-in-chief for Cars.com.
Illinois: Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed a law making attacks on retail employees enforcing mask rules a felony. "It's clear there is still an even greater need to get people to wear masks – especially to protect front line workers, whether they’re at the front of a store asking you to put on your mask or whether they’re responding to 911 calls to save those in distress," Pritzker said.
Texas: State health officials are worried about a significant drop in coronavirus testing in the state. They say that presents a potentially dangerous problem as schools prepare to reopen in the state.
Florida: United Airlines is betting that the coronavirus will be under control by winter and that consumers in northern states will be ready to fly again. It’s added more flights to Florida destinations during the fall and winter months, particularly Orlando and Miami.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) tally as compiled by Johns Hopkins University. (Previous numbers in parentheses.)Total U.S. confirmed cases: 5,204,792 (5,161,61...
Looks like COVID-conscious consumers have another substance found in hand sanitizers to worry about -- 1-propanol.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning both consumers and health care professionals about hand sanitizers manufactured by Harmonic Nature S de RL de MI in Mexico. Those sanitizer products are labeled to contain ethanol and/or isopropyl alcohol, but laboratory tests have also found levels of 1-propanol. The agency says the chemical is not an approved ingredient for hand sanitizers sold in the U.S. and could be harmful to those who are exposed to it.
“Ingesting 1-propanol can cause central nervous system (CNS) depression, which can result in death,” the agency said. “Consumers who have been exposed to hand sanitizer containing 1-propanol and are experiencing symptoms should seek immediate care for treatment of toxic effects of 1-propanol poisoning.”
The FDA urges consumers to avoid using any hand sanitizer containing 1-propanol and has added the ingredient to its list of unsafe hand sanitizers. The agency cites studies that have indicated that 1-propanol’s depression effects on the central nervous system are 2 to 4 times more potent than alcohol (ethanol).
In addition to the negative impact on the nervous system, skin exposure to 1-propanol has shown to result in irritation and, in rare situations, allergic skin reactions have been reported. In ConsumerAffairs’ research on the subject, data prepared for the World Health Organization listed incoordination, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, weakness, abdominal pain, sore throat, and vomiting as related symptoms.
The FDA notes that adolescents who may drink the liquid accidentally, as well as adults who drink the liquid as an alcohol substitute, are particularly at risk.
The FDA asks consumers who have products on the list of hand sanitizers with potential methanol or 1-propanol contamination to stop using them and dispose of them promptly, preferably in a hazardous waste container.
Consumers should not pour these products down the drain or flush them in the toilet. Instead, the agency advises contacting local waste management and recycling centers for instructions on how to dispose of the substance properly.
Looks like COVID-conscious consumers have another substance found in hand sanitizers to worry about -- 1-propanol. The U.S. Food and Drug Administratio...
Earlier this week, a California judge ruled that Uber and Lyft must reclassify their workers as employees in order to comply with the state’s new Gig Economy Law. Now, the companies say they might have to temporarily pull out of the state if efforts to appeal the ruling aren’t successful.
“If the court doesn’t reconsider, then in California, it’s hard to believe we’ll be able to switch our model to full-time employment quickly,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshai told MSNBC.
He said the company might have to shut down in the state until at least November, when Proposition 22 -- an initiative supported by Uber, Lyft, and Doordash with $110 million in funding from gig companies -- is set to be voted on. Prop 22 would enable ride-sharing companies to continue classifying drivers as contractors.
Just a few days ago, Khosrowshahi wrote in an op-ed for the New York Times that drivers deserved more benefits under an employment classification that falls somewhere between contractor and employee.
“Our current employment system is outdated and unfair. It forces every worker to choose between being an employee with more benefits but less flexibility, or an independent contractor with more flexibility but almost no safety net,” he said. “Uber is ready, right now, to pay more to give drivers new benefits and protections.”
Khosrowshahi advocated for what he called a “third way” to classify drivers that would give them some protections without compromising their flexibility.
“I’m proposing that gig economy companies be required to establish benefits funds which give workers cash that they can use for the benefits they want, like health insurance or paid time off. Independent workers in any state that passes this law could take money out for every hour of work they put in. All gig companies would be required to participate, so that workers can build up benefits even if they switch between apps,” the executive suggested.
Ride-sharing service Lyft echoed its rival’s sentiments, suggesting that California’s new labor law may keep it from doing business. “If our efforts here are not successful it would force us to suspend operations in California,” Lyft President John Zimmer said on an earnings call.
Earlier this week, a California judge ruled that Uber and Lyft must reclassify their workers as employees in order to comply with the state’s new Gig Econo...
It might be too soon for some consumers to feel comfortable with the idea of taking a vacation away from home, but those who want to sate their wanderlust can do so a little more safely if they’re using Google to book their trip.
In an announcement on Thursday, the company said that it is adding new travel-related updates when users use Google to look up information about hotels, flights, or things to do in an area they want to visit. The new tools also include information on travel advisories or restrictions that consumers should be aware of, as well as the number of COVID-19 cases that are present in the area they’re planning to visit.
“Because the impact of COVID-19 on destinations can vary, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest travel-related information for places you may want to visit,” the company said in a blog post.
Google says that it will continue to update Google Search to include the latest information as more areas of the U.S. begin to reopen. In the next week, it says users will be treated to more hotel information, like the percentage of open hotels with availability and whether the hotel has a free cancellation policy. It also plans to add more flight information at the city and county level.
“The uncertainty of COVID-19 makes it hard to navigate travel decisions. We’ll continue to share the most relevant information so you can make informed decisions and travel safely when the time comes,” the company said.
It might be too soon for some consumers to feel comfortable with the idea of taking a vacation away from home, but those who want to sate their wanderlust...