Consumer News: AI love kids — and their parents are helping

How about Texarkana, or maybe you'd prefer Topeka?

We all have days when we'd like to just throw everything in the car and take off for parts unknown Tahiti, Mazatlan or maybe even Muscle Shoals. Well, sorry to say but if you want to try Tahiti or Mazatlan it willhave to be on your tab. But Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is a different story.

It just so happens that Muscle Shoals and other cities in the Shoals region of Alabama Florence, Sheffield and Tuscumbiaare still paying people to move there. It's a program, called Make My Move, that started during the pandemic, when cities were having trouble attracting new residents, and it's still popular in various spots that you may never have thought of moving to. The Shoals region towns are paying up to $10,000 for remote workers who earn at least $52,000 annually.

Top programs currently active

West Virginia's Ascend program offers $12,000 to remote workers who move to designated communities like Morgantown, New River Gorge, or Greenbrier Valley, paid as $10,000 in monthly installments during the first year and $2,000 after the second year. The program also includes a free outdoor recreation package and co-working space access.

Texarkana, which straddles Texas and Arkansas, offers one of the most generous packages at over $18,000, including cash for a down payment, co-working space discounts, and cultural event tickets. The program also offers college students a 25% tuition discount and one free class at Texas A&M University-Texarkana.

Topeka, Kansas offers up to $15,000 through its Choose Topeka program $10,000 for renters and $15,000 for homebuyers. Unlike many programs, this one isn't limited to remote workers. Topeka is the state capital and also has a large mental health facility.

Other notable programs

Newton, Iowa is offering $10,000 in cash to people who purchase homes valued at more than $240,000. Baltimore's "Live Near Your Work" program matches employer contributions between $1,000 and $2,500, for total incentives of $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the employer.

Hamilton, Ohio was accepting applications through July 1, 2025 for a "reverse scholarship" program that helps recent STEM graduates with student loan debt. It might be worth checking to see if that's been extended.

Alaska's unique approach

Alaska's Permanent Fund Dividend pays annual dividends to all residents, with amounts varying by year Governor Mike Dunleavy requested about $3,900 per person for 2025, though the legislature is expected to approve closer to $1,400.

Requirements and considerations

Most programs target remote workers and require you to live in the area for at least one to two years. A spokesperson for MakeMyMove noted that while cash often gets attention, "the thing remote workers actually move for is a better quality of life in a community where they feel they belong".

The website MakeMyMove.com tracks these programs and can help you find options that match your situation.

New data reveals checking and writing reviews could be your best defense this holiday season

• 86% of shoppers check reviews before buying and skipping that step can cost you.

• Scammers are using AI and fake retailer messages to trick consumers during the holiday rush.

• Reading and writing honest reviews helps everyone shop safer and avoid too-good-to-be-true deals.

The holiday shopping season is officially here and so are the scammers hoping to cash in on it.

Between flashy ads, too-good-to-be-true deals, and the rush to check off gift lists, its easy to let your guard down online. But according to new data from Trustpilot, taking a few minutes to read (or write) reviews could make all the difference.

Dana Bodine, Vice President of Marketing at Trustpilot, spoke with ConsumerAffairs, and explained that this years shoppers are more review-savvy than ever and for good reason.

The companys latest survey found that 86% of Americans check reviews before making a purchase, and many have learned the hard way what happens when they dont. With 13% losing up to $100 after skipping the review step, the message is clear: a little research goes a long way toward avoiding and buying with confidence.

The biggest scam threats

What should consumers be wary of as they start preparing for the holiday shopping season? Bodine explained that the latest technology makes easier to fall for than ever.

Bad actors are becoming increasingly creative and convincing, especially now with the widespread use of AI, she said.

Some of the top threats this year include low-quality items misrepresented online with AI-generated images, and fake phishing texts or emails from scammers posing as retailers or shipping companies. Consumers should also be cautious with returns and refunds. Some fraudulent sellers disappear once a purchase is made, leaving buyers with no recourse.

The benefits of reading reviews

Despite the threats lurking online this holiday season, Bodine explained that reading reviews can be a great way for consumers to protect themselves from .

Reading reviews is one of the most accessible and effective ways to shop safely, she said. Before you buy, take a few minutes to read recent reviews about both the company and the specific product in your cart.

Afterward, pay it forward by leaving your own review share whether the item met expectations, what the shopping experience was like, and whether youd recommend it. While 86% of people rely on reviews, only about one in five (17%) actually write them.

More risk during the holiday season

Bodine explained that are even more prevalent during the holiday season, making it all the more important for consumers to take action to protect themselves.

The holiday season is when most spending occurs, meaning there is more risk, Bodine said. The busy pace and time pressure of the season can lead people to make quick decisions without proper vetting.

We encourage shoppers to take their time. If a deal seems too good to be true, make sure other shoppers have good things to say before hitting buy.

Lucid, BMW, and Dodge join Ford in this weeks safety recall surge

Auto Safety Recall Derby Week of Oct. 22, 2025

Top Recall: Ford leads the week with multiple major safety issues

Ford dominates this weeks recall roundup, issuing at least six separate safety notices covering everything from seat belt anchor corrosion to engine block heater fire risks and faulty trailer hitches.
Other automakers on the list include BMW, Chrysler, Nissan, Lucid, and Genesis, with several RV and heavy-truck manufacturers also affected.

Highlights by Manufacturer

Ford Motor Company

• Seat belt anchor pretensioners may corrode and break (20152017 Mustang) increases risk of injury in a crash.

• Improper passenger airbag deployment (2025 Ranger) may violate FMVSS 208 standards.

• Inadequate windshield bonding (2025 Bronco, Ranger) windshield could detach, violating FMVSS 212.

• Engine block heater short circuit may cause fire (Multiple models, 20162024) includes Bronco, Escape, Explorer, Fusion, Maverick, Ranger, and Lincoln Corsair/MKC.

• Rearview camera display failure (20202022 Super Duty trucks) may impair rear visibility.

• Trailer hitch assembly may detach (20242026 Explorer, Aviator) increased crash risk if towing.

• Low brake fluid warning inoperative (20212023 Mustang) may not alert drivers to low fluid levels.

Lucid USA, Inc.

• Half-shaft may disconnect (20242026 Lucid Air) could cause sudden loss of drive power.

BMW of North America

• Windshield not sealed properly (2026 X4, X6) risk of water leaks or detachment.

• Incorrectly manufactured driveshaft (2026 R 1300 RT motorcycle) may cause loss of drive power.

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)

• Detached shifter cable (20132016 Dodge Dart) vehicle may roll away when parked.

Nissan North America

• Blown fuel pump fuse (NV200, NV200 Taxi, and Chevrolet City Express 20132021) may cause engine stall.

Recreational Vehicles

• Jayco & Heartland (Jayco Inc.) Murphy bed may fall unexpectedly (2026 models).

• Genesis Supreme RV Air conditioner may catch fire (2024 models).

• Forest River (Coachmen & Aurora models) Missing overcurrent protection may cause fire (20252026).

Heavy Truck & Bus Manufacturers

• Autocar (Legend, Xpeditor) Loss of steering control (20242026).

• Brenner Tank Incorrect emergency valve may leak hazardous material (2026).

• Supreme Corporation Battery box may detach (2025).

• *Daimler Trucks (Thomas Built Buses) Insufficient exterior joint strength (2026).

Prevention Tips

• Always check your VIN or license plate at the NHTSA Recall Lookup Tool.

• Schedule repairs immediately with your dealerrepairs are free under federal law.

• Park outdoors if your recall involves a potential fire hazard (e.g., Ford block heater or RV air conditioners).

• Watch for warning lights or performance changes; they may be early signs of a developing issue.

What to Do If Youre Affected

1. Locate your VIN (on the dashboard or registration).

2. Check for open recalls using NHTSAs or your automakers online tool.

3. Call your local dealer to schedule the fixno charge.

4. Keep documentation of your repair for insurance or resale purposes.

Smart swaps that keep Christmas under budget

• Prices may tick up: new U.S. tariffs are raising costs, so brands bump prices or quietly trim features

• Most exposed: electronic/licensed toys; sneakers/hoodies; small appliances & copper cookware; power tools/outdoor gear; e-bikes/scooters; upholstered furniture

• Workarounds: choose non-electronic toys; last-season sneaker colors; stainless/aluminum tri-ply pan sets; holiday combo tool kits/house brands; non-electric bikes or last-year models; U.S./Mexico-made furniture + As-Is/open-box

This Christmas, dont be surprised if the price tag on that toy set, bike, or pair of sneakers is a little higher as new U.S. tariffs are showing up on holiday shelves.

Brands are responding in different ways as some are raising list prices, others are trimming features, swapping materials, or shifting production. We break down which gift categories have the most tariff exposure and how to shop around the price increases and keep Christmas as affordable as possible this year.

Toys (especially anything electronic or licensed)

Whats happening: The beeping, talking Buzz Lightyear gets pricier while a plain board game stays closer to normal price.

The guts of electronic toys made in China now carry an extra 25%-50% tariff. So anything made in Chinawith a screen, chip, or battery,will probably be more expensive.

The workaround: For younger kids who dont care about tech, swap the tablet-toy for physical-play sets (blocks, craft kits, puzzles). Same wow on Christmas morning, way fewer tariffs attached.

Also, skip the licensed versions of toys and buy the theme instead. So think more generic with a space-hero figure, dinosaur set, or princess dress in the right colors without the logo.

Then pair it with something theyll actually use like a generic playsetor a costume accessory.By shopping this way, you'll get the same vibe and not have to pay the markups on licensed toys.

Apparel & footwear (sneakers, hoodies, outerwear)

Whats happening: In recent months, brands like Nike, Puma, Adidas, Lululemon, Levis and H&M have all announced price hikes due to tariffs.

Most of the increases are in the form of small $5$15 bumps on hot sneakers and logo gear, then they try to hold the price on 'basics' by swapping materials.

But if a hot new pair of shoes is on your childs wish list, youll either have to pay the price increase or use the below workaround.

The workaround: Buy last-season color of the exact shoe as brands tend to discount those first to make room for new colors. They have the same build but at a much friendlier price.

Also, consider skipping the licensed logos and instead grab the team-color lookalike to dodge the brand logo + license double hit.

Small kitchen appliances & cookware

Whats happening: The raw metals that go into small appliances like air fryers, stand mixers, and copper-core cookwarejust got pricier at the border.

The U.S. now charges big import taxes on steel, aluminum, and copper parts, as high as 50% in 2025. That raises costs on things like pans, mixer housings, espresso machine guts, and wiring.

Fancy copper cookware like Mauviel, Ruffoni, and Hestan CopperBond will get hit the hardest because copper parts now face a 50% tariff when imported. Thats why high-end copper sticker prices jump faster than basic stainless.

The workaround: Skip the all-copper showpieces and go stainless or aluminum-core tri-ply instead.

Brands like All-Clad, Made In Stainless, or Tramontina Tri-Ply cook about the same for most home recipes but usually cost a lot less because they dont rely on tariff-heavy copper. (Stainless/aluminum are still tariffed, but the designs use far less expensive copper, or none at all.)

Also, look for factory-refurbished deals that still carry a warranty. KitchenAid Certified Refurbished stand mixers include a 6-month warranty and still have a 30-day return window.

Breville Remanufactured espresso machines sell for 30-40% less than retail and also come with a generous 6-month warranty and a 30-day return policy.

Tools & outdoor gear (power tools, grills, patio heaters)

Whats happening: Metal (steel, aluminum, copper) and imported guts (motors, battery cells, control boards) now cost more to bring into the U.S., so big tool makers are under pressure.

Stanley Black & Decker (think DeWalt, Craftsman) literally told investors that tariffs are a major 2025 cost hit, which they offset with price moves and supply shifts.

Thats why some power tool kits quietly lostan extra battery or a couple of accessories so the headline price looks the same.

The workaround: When youre shopping for dads this year, pounce early on holiday combo kits. Every holiday season, the best value is the combo of a driver + drill plus extra battery/charger.

Home Depot is already running Milwaukee BOGO/starter-kit promos, and similar bundles pop up for DeWalt and Makita. Buying each piece a la carte always costs more.

Also, be sure to compare the in-house tools brands with the more expensive name-brands. Same specs in many cases, just at a lower price. This means Ryobi (Home Depot), RIDGID (Home Depot), Hart (Walmart), and Kobalt (Lowes).

Bikes, e-bikes & scooters

Whats happening: Anything with a battery (e-bikes, e-scooters) will pays extra coming into the U.S.. Recent rules add big surcharges on China-made e-bikes and battery parts, and even bike metals (steel/aluminum) are facing new or raised duties. That pushes price tags up significantly.

Brands that import a lot of the frame/drivetrain or the battery pack feel it first. Think popular e-bike makers like Rad Power Bikes and Aventon, plus big bike brands (Trek, Specialized, Giant, Cannondale) that source many frames and parts from Asia.

The workaround: When it comes to kids bikes, skip the motor. Go with non-electric bikes and modular kick scooters that grow with the kid.

A Micro Kickboard scooter (parts are replaceable) or a classic Razor kick scooter gives tons of fun without a tariffed battery so youll keep costs down.

For adults, I recommend shopping last years model at your local bike shop. Bike frames do change a little each year, but prices drop when the new models arrive.

Be sure to ask for previous-year versions of common models like Trek Marlin/Supercaliber, Specialized Sirrus/Rockhopper, Giant Talon/Escape, or Cannondale Quick/Trail. Your shop will know which 2024 models are marked down and steer you in the right direction.

Upholstered furniture (sofas, chairs, ottomans)

Whats happening: If a new couch or dining room set is on your Christmas wishlist expect to see higher prices. Tariffs on upholstered goods hit at about 25% + 10% hit on lumber + holiday freight = higher list prices on furniture. These tariffs hit IKEA, Wayfair, and Restoration Hardware especially hard.

Some furniture brands also decided to reduce or remove extras like pillows and lighter foam in an effort to hold certain price points.

The workaround: Shop furniture brands like Ethan Allen, La-Z-Boy , Flexsteel, and Joybird as they manufacturer much of their U.S. and Mexico.

Also, be sure to hit open-box/As-Is sections at places like IKEA. You can score bargains on furniture thats been returned or a marked down display model.