<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
    xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
    xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
    xmlns:admin="http://webns.net/mvcb/"
    xmlns:rdf="http://www.w3.org/1999/02/22-rdf-syntax-ns#"
    xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
    xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
    xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/">

    <channel>
    
    <atom:link href="http://www2.tricities.com/tri/rss/cat_consumer/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
    <link xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" rel="display:module" type="text/xsl" href="http://cm.my.yahoo.com/feedtemplates/npc/simpletemplate_left.xsl"/>

    <title>Consumer News for TriCities</title>
    <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/consumer/</link>
    <image>
        <url>http://static.mgnetwork.com/tri/media_path/icons/my_yahoo_header.jpg</url>
        <title>Consumer News for TriCities</title>
        <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/consumer/</link>
        <width>150</width>
        <height>30</height>
    </image>
    <description></description>
    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>TriCities</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2009</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2009-11-08T00:15:23-05:00</dc:date>

    <admin:generatorAgent rdf:resource="http://www.tricities.com//" />
    
         <item>
          <title>CCS: Don&#8217;t let your financial future go up in smoke</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ccs_dont_let_your_financial_future_go_up_in_smoke/35367/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
To save hundreds of dollars each month, credit counselors advise consumers to reduce, quit smoking.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:39:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ccs_dont_let_your_financial_future_go_up_in_smoke/35367/#When:14:39:39Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Could the IRS be trying to send you money?</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/could_the_irs_be_trying_to_send_you_money/35317/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The IRS seeks to return $1.77 million in undeliverable refunds to Tennesseans - check our database here to see if your name is on the list!           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:26:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/could_the_irs_be_trying_to_send_you_money/35317/#When:19:26:06Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling Will Be Hard To Find Again</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/canned_pumpkin_pie_filling_will_be_hard_to_find_again/34526/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
For the second year in a row, fans of open-and-pour pie mixes may look to their grocery store shelves and see only emptiness where there should be cans of pumpkin pie mix.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2009 10:23:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/canned_pumpkin_pie_filling_will_be_hard_to_find_again/34526/#When:15:23:13Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tips to Winterize Your Home</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tips_to_winterize_your_home/34207/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With the chill of autumn already in the air, now is the perfect time to begin &#8220;winterizing&#8221; your home.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2009 08:50:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tips_to_winterize_your_home/34207/#When:13:50:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Your Oversized Handbag Could Be Hazardous to Your Health</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/your_oversized_handbag_could_be_hazardous_to_your_health/33901/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Your purse could be causing unnecessary strain on your neck, shoulders and back  - not to mention the bacteria it could be harboring.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:39:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/your_oversized_handbag_could_be_hazardous_to_your_health/33901/#When:15:39:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>GM To Shut Down Saturn After Penske Walks Away</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gm_to_shut_down_saturn_after_penske_walks_away/33387/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
General Motors Co. says it&#8217;s shutting down the Saturn brand after an agreement with Penske Automotive Group Inc. to acquire the unit fell apart.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:45:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gm_to_shut_down_saturn_after_penske_walks_away/33387/#When:22:45:07Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Outstanding Store Brands</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/outstanding_store_brands/31914/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It used to be when you walked down a store aisle, you&#8217;d see boring black and white packages containing generic brands that looked and usually tasted pretty bland. But these days, Consumer Reports says all that&#8217;s changed. Store brands are lot better in terms of the quality and in terms of the packaging.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 06 Sep 2009 20:22:46 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/outstanding_store_brands/31914/#When:01:22:46Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>More Than Half Of All 12&#45;Year&#45;Olds Have Cell Phones</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/more_than_half_of_all_12-year-olds_have_cell_phones/31603/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
For the first time, more than half of U.S. 12-year-olds have a cell phone of their very own, and their ranks are growing like lines at a Hannah Montana concert.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2009 07:31:55 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/more_than_half_of_all_12-year-olds_have_cell_phones/31603/#When:12:31:55Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Credit Cards Can Be a Pitfall for College Students</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/credit_cards_can_be_a_pitfall_for_college_students/31264/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While most students will finish college with a degree and promising career opportunities, many will struggle for years to repay the credit card debt they incur while in school.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:37:47 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/credit_cards_can_be_a_pitfall_for_college_students/31264/#When:14:37:47Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Maytag Recalls More Refrigerators</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/maytag_recalls_more_refrigerators/31174/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
 Maytag is recalling about 46,000 refrigerators under the Maytag, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag and Crosley brand names, due to a fire hazard.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 10:31:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/maytag_recalls_more_refrigerators/31174/#When:15:31:33Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Deaths Prompt Re&#45;announcement Of Bassinet Recall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/deaths_prompt_re-announcement_of_bassinet_recall/31005/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Two additional infant deaths prompt re-announcement of recall for Simplicity &#8220;Close-Sleeper/Bedside Sleeper&#8221; Bassinets.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:16:14 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/deaths_prompt_re-announcement_of_bassinet_recall/31005/#When:23:16:14Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Wal&#45;Mart Recalls 1.5 Million Durabrand DVD Players</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/wal-mart_recalls_1.5_million_durabrand_dvd_players/31004/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is voluntarily recalling about 1.5 million Durabrand DVD players after the company said it received five reports of the products overheating, leading to fires and property damage.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:10:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/wal-mart_recalls_1.5_million_durabrand_dvd_players/31004/#When:23:10:33Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Little Tikes Recall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/little_tikes_recall/30604/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Little Tikes Co. is recalling about 1.6 million toy workshops and trucks, after an 11-month-old boy got a plastic nail lodged in his throat.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2009 18:26:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/little_tikes_recall/30604/#When:23:26:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>EPA Changes Eligibility of Some Vehicles in &#8216;Clunkers&#8217; Program</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/epa_changes_eligibility_of_some_vehicles_in_clunkers_program/29735/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you&#8217;re wanting to trade in your old car, and you&#8217;re hoping to cash in on the &#8216;Clunker&#8217; money currently being offered by the government program, you might want to double check that your vehicle is still eligible.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:42:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/epa_changes_eligibility_of_some_vehicles_in_clunkers_program/29735/#When:19:42:11Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>IRS: Beware of First&#45;Time Homebuyer Credit Scams</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/irs_beware_of_first-time_homebuyer_credit_scams/29670/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Internal Revenue Service is warning tax payers to watch out for scams involving the first-time homebuyer credit this year and next.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:39:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/irs_beware_of_first-time_homebuyer_credit_scams/29670/#When:22:39:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Social Media 101: Facebook Part 3</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/social_media_101_facebook_part_3/29589/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Join Marketing Mel and 11 Connects as we explore the value and usage of Facebook in a three part series.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:31:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/social_media_101_facebook_part_3/29589/#When:15:31:26Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Social Media 101: Facebook Part 2</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/social_media_101_facebook_part_2/29586/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Join Marketing Mel and 11 Connects as we explore the value and usage of Facebook in a three part series.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:29:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/social_media_101_facebook_part_2/29586/#When:15:29:58Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Social Media 101: Facebook Part 1</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/social_media_101_facebook_part_1/29584/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Join Marketing Mel and 11 Connects as we explore the value and usage of Facebook in a three part series.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:27:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/social_media_101_facebook_part_1/29584/#When:15:27:34Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Haven&#8217;t Been Able to Take a Vacation? Try A StayCation</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/havent_been_able_to_take_a_vacation_try_a_staycation/29195/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Haven&#8217;t been able to afford a vacation this year? Consumer Credit Counseling Service offers a few handy tips on making your own StayCation.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:11:52 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/havent_been_able_to_take_a_vacation_try_a_staycation/29195/#When:15:11:52Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>The Buzz on &#8216;Skeeters</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/the_buzz_on_skeeters/29137/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Experts say you don&#8217;t need new gimmicks or unproven home remedies that make the rounds on the Internet.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:27:55 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/the_buzz_on_skeeters/29137/#When:17:27:55Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Free, Online Solutions Can Be Great Options</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/free_online_solutions_can_be_great_options/29020/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We tend to spend a lot of money on technology, and for the most part, it&#8217;s a worthwhile expense &#8212; to be without it in our online world is impossible at worst and impractical at best. So we pay a lot for computers, Internet service, software, etc. and chalk it up as a necessary evil.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 10:17:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/free_online_solutions_can_be_great_options/29020/#When:15:17:24Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia Employees Could Get Up To $500 Loans</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/virginia_employees_could_get_up_to_500_loans/28771/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia will offer state employees loans up to $500 in an effort to prevent them from turning to payday or
car title lenders during tough economic times.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:23:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/virginia_employees_could_get_up_to_500_loans/28771/#When:16:23:24Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tenn. Sales Tax Holiday This Weekend</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tenn._sales_tax_holiday_august_7-9/28486/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The fourth annual Sales Tax Holiday is scheduled for Friday, August 7 and continuing through Sunday, August 9.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:34:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tenn._sales_tax_holiday_august_7-9/28486/#When:15:34:24Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>A Tri&#45;Cities Family Stays Positive Through Tough Times</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/a_tri-cities_family_stays_positive_through_tough_times/28342/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A Tri-Cities boy with a cleft palate prepares for another surgery.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:04:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/a_tri-cities_family_stays_positive_through_tough_times/28342/#When:23:04:27Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cash For Clunkers</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cash_for_clunkers/28319/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you have been thinking about purchasing a new fuel-efficient car through the government&#8217;s Cash For Clunkers Program, your first step should be to make sure you qualify.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:51:44 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cash_for_clunkers/28319/#When:17:51:44Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>4 Million Baby Floats Recalled</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/4_million_baby_floats_recalled/28121/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said Thursday that Aqua-Leisure Industries would recall about 4 million floating baby pool toys that pose a drowning risk.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 18:22:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/4_million_baby_floats_recalled/28121/#When:23:22:33Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Beware of Crib Recalls</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/beware_of_crib_recalls/26791/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you&#8217;re a parent of a baby or a toddler &#8211; this information could save your child&#8217;s life.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:32:25 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/beware_of_crib_recalls/26791/#When:20:32:25Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>FDA Regulations On Tobacco Could Take 3 Years</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fda_regulations_on_tobacco_could_take_3_years/25694/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
New law will have gradual effects;smokers will not pay much more;.small manufacturers to be hurt most.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:22:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fda_regulations_on_tobacco_could_take_3_years/25694/#When:15:22:16Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Smoking Debate Has Become Nicotine&#45;Delivery Debate</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/smoking_debate_has_become_nicotine-delivery_debate/25150/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Federal regulators are cracking down on a cigarette substitute that uses technology similar to devices that Philip Morris USA researchers have focused on in recent years.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 10:04:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/smoking_debate_has_become_nicotine-delivery_debate/25150/#When:15:04:05Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Home Buyers Could Get $8000 Credit Sooner Than Expected</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/home_buyers_could_get_8000_credit_sooner_than_expected/24959/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Join two real-estate professionals tonight, live on 11 Connects and Tri-Cities.com with our  live web chat.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:33:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/home_buyers_could_get_8000_credit_sooner_than_expected/24959/#When:19:33:11Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Small Changes Can Save You Big Bucks</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/small_changes_can_save_you_big_bucks/24736/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Saving money does not have to happen in large chunks.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2009 15:27:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/small_changes_can_save_you_big_bucks/24736/#When:20:27:03Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tenn. GOP Chairman Robin Smith To Resign</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/state_regional/article/tenn._gop_chairman_robin_smith_to_resign/24247/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Robin Smith has announced she will resign effective May 30.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2009 17:40:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/state_regional/article/tenn._gop_chairman_robin_smith_to_resign/24247/#When:22:40:58Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Starting Monday: Cost Of Stamps Goes Up To 44 Cents</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/starting_monday_cost_of_stamps_goes_up_to_44_cents/23995/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Get ready to shell out a couple more pennies to mail a letter. Starting Monday, the cost of a stamp goes up to 44 cents.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 10 May 2009 22:29:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/starting_monday_cost_of_stamps_goes_up_to_44_cents/23995/#When:03:29:31Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>RECALL: Mayfield Homemade Vanilla Select Ice Cream</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/recall_mayfield_homemade_vanilla_select_ice_cream/23931/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Check the ice cream in your freezers! The 1.5-quart containers of Mayfield Homemade Vanilla Select Ice Cream has been recalled because of possible ammonia contamination.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2009 06:08:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/recall_mayfield_homemade_vanilla_select_ice_cream/23931/#When:11:08:53Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>GM Recalls 300 New Camaros Due To Cable Problem</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gm_recalls_300_new_camaros_due_to_cable_problem/23849/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
General Motors Corp. says it is recalling about 300 new Chevrolet Camaros because a battery cable could rub against
the starter motor, wearing the insulation and potentially causing the car to stop running or fail to start.
&nbsp;  &nbsp;  
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2009 14:37:15 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gm_recalls_300_new_camaros_due_to_cable_problem/23849/#When:19:37:15Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Crib Recall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/crib_recall/23664/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Jardine Enterprises is recalling about 96,000 cribs, the third crib recall the company has issued in a year.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2009 11:48:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/crib_recall/23664/#When:16:48:54Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Gap Recalls Children&#8217;s Coats</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gap_recalls_childrens_coats/23662/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gap Inc. is issuing a voluntary recall for some babyGap coats due to a choking hazard.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2009 11:44:18 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gap_recalls_childrens_coats/23662/#When:16:44:18Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tips For Creating A Budget</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tips_for_creating_a_budget/23300/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Dylan Biles with Dealtaker.com takes you through the easy steps to creating a budget.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 25 Apr 2009 11:03:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tips_for_creating_a_budget/23300/#When:16:03:09Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tax Time Approaches &#45; Here Are A Few Tips</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tax_time_approaches_-_here_are_a_few_tips/22690/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
IRS Offers Quick Tips for Last-Minute Tennessee Filers           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2009 08:52:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tax_time_approaches_-_here_are_a_few_tips/22690/#When:13:52:03Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Send &#8220;Phishy&#8221; Emails Straight To Your Spam Folder</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/send_phishy_emails_straight_to_your_spam_folder/22529/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It&#8217;s a scam called &#8220;phishing&#8221; &#8211; and it involves Internet fraudsters who send spam or pop-up messages to lure personal information (credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, passwords or other sensitive data) from unsuspecting victims.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2009 11:14:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/send_phishy_emails_straight_to_your_spam_folder/22529/#When:16:14:06Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Yamaha Recall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/yamaha_recall/22405/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Yamaha Motor Corp. USA is recalling about 120,000 off-highway recreational vehicles for repairs, after two models were involved in 46 deaths.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2009 11:47:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/yamaha_recall/22405/#When:16:47:24Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>How To Keep Date Night From Breaking The Bank</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/how_to_keep_date_night_from_breaking_the_bank/22286/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Going out, eating dinner in a nice restaurant: These things add up to big bucks.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:31:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/how_to_keep_date_night_from_breaking_the_bank/22286/#When:14:31:28Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>How Safe Is Your SUV&#8217;s Roof</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/how_safe_is_your_suvs_roof/22215/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety put 12 small suv&#8217;s through a new roof strength test designed to see how vehicles hold up in a rollover.&nbsp;  Rollover&#8217;s account for 10,000 deaths a year.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 16:45:40 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/how_safe_is_your_suvs_roof/22215/#When:21:45:40Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Mexican&#45;Style Cheeses Recalled</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cheese_recall/22201/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A type of cheese sold in Kentucky and Tennessee is being recalled.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 11:55:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cheese_recall/22201/#When:16:55:03Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Using The Library To Save Money?</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/using_the_library_to_save_money/22143/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Bristol Public Library and Woman&#8217;s Day magazine want to know how you&#8217;ve used the library as a resource during tough times.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:26:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/using_the_library_to_save_money/22143/#When:18:26:34Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Roof Strength Tests</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/roof_strength_tests/22137/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Insurance for Highway Safety released its findings in roof strength crash tests.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2009 11:41:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/roof_strength_tests/22137/#When:16:41:36Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Super Hair Straighteners</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/super_hair_straighteners/21936/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We always want what we can&#8217;t have. That&#8217;s especially true for women and their hair. Enter straightening irons with enticing promises of smooth, straight hair. Sales topped more than $85 million last year. Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine tested nine straightening irons ranging in price from $18 all the way up to $160.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:38:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/super_hair_straighteners/21936/#When:21:38:54Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Crib Makers Want Certain Cribs Banned</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/crib_makers_want_certain_cribs_banned/21917/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Crib makers have proposed a ban on drop-side cribs because of concerns over infant deaths, injuries and a series of recalls in recent months.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2009 07:48:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/crib_makers_want_certain_cribs_banned/21917/#When:12:48:59Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Electronic Tax Filing In Virginia</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/electronic_tax_filing_in_virginia/21868/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
 With tax day less than one month away, Virginians aren&#8217;t waiting until the last minute to file their
returns.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:33:37 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/electronic_tax_filing_in_virginia/21868/#When:16:33:37Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Risky Cost Cutting</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/risky_cost_cutting/21802/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Everyone is looking for ways to make ends meet.&nbsp; But a just-released Consumer Reports survey shows that some people are cutting corners in ways that could actually be jeopardizing their health.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2009 06:54:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/risky_cost_cutting/21802/#When:11:54:20Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Claypool Hill and Oakwood, Va., Now Have Access To  High Speed Internet</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/claypool_hill_and_oakwood_va._now_have_access_to_high_speed_internet/21632/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Consumers and businesses in two southwest Virginia communities now have access to Verizon High Speed Internet, allowing them to quickly download movies, share photos or video with friends and family, and create their own Internet content.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:07:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/claypool_hill_and_oakwood_va._now_have_access_to_high_speed_internet/21632/#When:21:07:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Poor Economy Means Great Travel Deals</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/poor_economy_means_great_travel_deals/21500/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Many customers are calling or stopping by the AAA office in Johnson City these days. They are cashing in on several discounts now being offered by Disney and other companies.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:42:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/poor_economy_means_great_travel_deals/21500/#When:20:42:59Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Making Tax Time Less Taxing</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/making_tax_time_less_taxing/21168/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Want to make tax time less taxing?&nbsp; The following tips could help.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:30:47 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/making_tax_time_less_taxing/21168/#When:19:30:47Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Watch Out For Mortgage Scams</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/watch_out_for_mortgage_scams/21090/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs is warning homeowners to watch out for mortgage scams.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:35:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/watch_out_for_mortgage_scams/21090/#When:16:35:45Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries March 8</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/change_your_clocks_change_your_batteries_march_8/21018/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the time change scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2009, approaches, Bristol Fire/Rescue has implemented a safety initiative in conjunction with the International Association of Fire Chiefs.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:24:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/change_your_clocks_change_your_batteries_march_8/21018/#When:21:24:54Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>2009 Toyota Prius Touring Edition:&amp;nbsp; Best New Car Value</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/2009_toyota_prius_touring_edition_best_new_car_value/20989/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The 2009 Toyota Prius Touring edition offers the best new car value, says Consumer Reports magazine.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2009 23:43:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/2009_toyota_prius_touring_edition_best_new_car_value/20989/#When:04:43:49Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Glass Cleaner Warnings</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/glass_cleaner_warnings/20982/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Murkey Glass Cleaner Warnings           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2009 22:31:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/glass_cleaner_warnings/20982/#When:03:31:05Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Grocery Store Savings</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/grocery_store_savings/20920/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We uncovered a way you can save big bucks on your next trip to the grocery store.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:58:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/grocery_store_savings/20920/#When:13:58:28Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Old Navy Recalls Stuffed Animals</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/old_navy_recalls_stuffed_animals/20642/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Old Navy has voluntarily recalled stuffed animal toys the stores have been selling since July.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:37:17 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/old_navy_recalls_stuffed_animals/20642/#When:03:37:17Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Best Colombian Coffee</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/best_colombian_coffee/20640/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Americans love their coffee. In fact, they drink about 400 million cups a day. Consumer Reports just tested 19 kinds of Columbian coffee from familiar names such as Folgers and Maxwell House&#8230;to much pricier ones from companies such as Starbucks and Caribou.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:32:51 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/best_colombian_coffee/20640/#When:03:32:51Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Does Rosetta Stone Really Work?</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/does_rosetta_stone_really_work/20447/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you&#8217;re like us and you&#8217;re 40 or over, learning new things can be tough.&nbsp; Languages in particular can prove problematic.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:01:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/does_rosetta_stone_really_work/20447/#When:05:01:31Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Top Heart&#45;Rate Monitors</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/top_heart-rate_monitors/20466/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sales of heart-rate monitors have been rising as people try to make sure they&#8217;re getting the maximum health benefit when they exercise. Consumer Reports tested eight monitors. At $30 to $100, it&#8217;s a good way to track your progress.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 21:52:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/top_heart-rate_monitors/20466/#When:02:52:06Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Can Consumers Live With Or Without Credit Cards?</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/can_consumers_live_with_or_without_credit_cards/20411/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Bad economy cuts our taste, and options, for easy credit, but that may not be so bad           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2009 16:47:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/can_consumers_live_with_or_without_credit_cards/20411/#When:21:47:30Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Charter Files For Bankruptcy</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/charter_files_for_bankruptcy/20296/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A cable company that serves thousands in the Tri-Cities  will file for bankruptcy.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2009 06:42:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/charter_files_for_bankruptcy/20296/#When:11:42:45Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Postage Stamps Increase May 11</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/postage_stamp_rate_increase/20151/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Postal Service announced Tuesday that the price of a first-class stamp will rise to 44 cents on May 11.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:50:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/postage_stamp_rate_increase/20151/#When:00:50:08Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Foreclosure Rates in Tenn. Up 70% From 2007</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/foreclosure_rates_in_tenn._up_70_from_2007/20063/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Foreclosure filings are up across the nation, but in Tennessee the increase is significant.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:20:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/foreclosure_rates_in_tenn._up_70_from_2007/20063/#When:18:20:45Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Cookbook To Be Produced With Funding</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cookbook_to_be_produced_with_funding/19907/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
BRISTOL, Tenn. &#8211; The State Street Farmer&#8217;s Market has received a grant from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture&#8217;s Farmers Market Promotion and Retail Grant program.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2009 11:52:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cookbook_to_be_produced_with_funding/19907/#When:16:52:26Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Congress Postpones Digital TV Transition To June</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/congress_postpones_digital_tv_transition_to_june/19817/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Congress has now decided to give people four
more months to prepare for the upcoming transition from analog to
digital TV broadcasting.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:50:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/congress_postpones_digital_tv_transition_to_june/19817/#When:21:50:31Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Plug In Prius</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/plug_in_prius/19760/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As part of his energy plan, Barack Obama wants to see 1,000,000 plug-in vehicles on the road in the next seven years. They will boost mileage dramatically.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2009 23:00:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/plug_in_prius/19760/#When:04:00:53Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>ECU Customers&#8217; Info Leaked in Heartland Security Breach</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ecu_customers_info_leaked_in_heartland_security_breach/19533/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you are an Eastman Credit Union debit or credit card customer, some of your personal information may have been comprised during a security breach.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:17:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ecu_customers_info_leaked_in_heartland_security_breach/19533/#When:15:17:48Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Business To Celebrate Grand Opening In Johnson City</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/business_to_celebrate_grand_opening_in_johnson_city/19496/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of East Tennessee has announced the grand opening of its new Johnson City office will be held Feb. 5. The ribbon cutting ceremony will begin at noon in the new location&#8212;suite 706 of the First Tennessee Bank building at 2112 North Roan Street.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:50:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/business_to_celebrate_grand_opening_in_johnson_city/19496/#When:10:50:08Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Last Minute Airfare Sale</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/last_minute_airfare_sale/19407/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Delta Airlines has a last minute low fare to Atlanta that you can&#8217;t pass up.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:45:12 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/last_minute_airfare_sale/19407/#When:16:45:12Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>New Store to Open in JC Mall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/new_store_to_open_in_jc_mall/19354/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Today, The Mall at Johnson City announces it will be increasing its list of regionally exclusive stores with the addition of Forever 21. There is no definite date as to when the store will open.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 10:10:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/new_store_to_open_in_jc_mall/19354/#When:15:10:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Carbon Monoxide Dangers Arise During Winter Months</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/carbon_monoxide_dangers_arise_during_winter_months/19194/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the mercury begins to dip, some families, struggling to pay their heating bills, will turn on the kitchen stove burners and the oven in an effort to take the chill off their home. What these families don&#8217;t realize is how dangerous this practice can be.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:28:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/carbon_monoxide_dangers_arise_during_winter_months/19194/#When:17:28:30Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Paying Off Your Debt</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/paying_off_your_debt/19094/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The best way to protect yourself in tough economic times is to bulk up your savings and pay off your debts.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 22:23:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/paying_off_your_debt/19094/#When:03:23:39Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Houchens Industries Acquires White&#8217;s Fresh Foods</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/houchens_industries_acquires_whites_fresh_foods/19034/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The company will assume control of 14 grocery stores and 450 employees in the Tri-Cities region.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:45:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/houchens_industries_acquires_whites_fresh_foods/19034/#When:23:45:56Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Circuit City Forced to Liquidate 567 Remaining Stores</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/circuit_city_forced_to_liquidate_567_stores/18919/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Circuit City Stores says it&#8217;s run out of options and will be forced to liquidate its 567 U.S. stores. No word yet from our Tri-Cities local stores.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 11:53:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/circuit_city_forced_to_liquidate_567_stores/18919/#When:16:53:36Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Kellogg Asks Stores To Pull Peanut Butter Crackers Off Shelves</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/kellogg_asks_stores_to_pull_peanut_butter_crackers_off_shelves/18847/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Kellogg is asking stores around the country to remove a variety of Austin and Keebler brand peanut butter crackers.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2009 06:34:30 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/kellogg_asks_stores_to_pull_peanut_butter_crackers_off_shelves/18847/#When:11:34:30Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Infant Clothing Recall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/infant_clothing_recall/18766/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Taggies Sleep &#8216;n Play Infant Clothing Recalled Due To Choking Hazard.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 18:14:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/infant_clothing_recall/18766/#When:23:14:05Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Officials: Toss salmonella&#45;linked peanut butter</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/officials_toss_salmonella-linked_peanut_butter/18737/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Health officials are urging nursing homes, hospitals, schools and restaurants to toss out specific containers of peanut butter linked to a salmonella outbreak in 43 states.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2009 10:58:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/officials_toss_salmonella-linked_peanut_butter/18737/#When:15:58:41Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>IRS Alert:&amp;nbsp; Be Aware of Suspicious Emails</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/irs_alert_be_aware_of_suspicious_emails/18692/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Be aware of e-mail scams that fraudulently use the IRS name or Logo as a lure.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:16:47 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/irs_alert_be_aware_of_suspicious_emails/18692/#When:15:16:47Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Price Cuts</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/price_cuts/18625/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
At least one maker of consumer products is offering some good news for customers: price cuts.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:02:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/price_cuts/18625/#When:23:02:27Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Infomercial Exercisers: Which Work?</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/infomercial_exercisers_which_work/18579/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Infomercials pitch all kinds of products. You can&#8217;t miss ones for exercise equipment that promises to get you looking great in no time. Consumer Reports just put nine to the test. Some promise a cardiovascular workout. Others claim to strengthen your abs.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:58:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/infomercial_exercisers_which_work/18579/#When:02:58:20Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Salmonella Outbreak Spreads to 42 States</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/salmonella_outbreak_spreads_to_42_states/18556/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak that reportedly has sickened nearly 400 people in 42 states, but they do not yet know exactly how the bacteria has been spreading.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:59:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/salmonella_outbreak_spreads_to_42_states/18556/#When:16:59:58Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Fire Officials Stress Importance of Smoke Alarms</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fire_officials_stress_importance_of_smoke_alarms/18528/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Americans were urged Wednesday to install, maintain and test their smoke alarms, in light of one of the deadliest holiday seasons in recent history and several significant fires in early 2009.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:50:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fire_officials_stress_importance_of_smoke_alarms/18528/#When:23:50:36Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>New Tennessee Highway Maps Available Online</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/new_tennessee_highway_maps_available_online/18527/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The official Tennessee transportation map for 2009, available now, features a new and easier-to-read design.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:28:10 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/new_tennessee_highway_maps_available_online/18527/#When:23:28:10Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Diet Secrets</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/diet_secrets/18445/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Two out of three American adults are overweight. We gain an average 20 pounds between the ages of 25 and 55. But some people are able to take the weight off and keep it off. And then there are the lucky folks who never seem to gain a pound. Consumer Reports surveyed 21,000 of its readers to find their secrets.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:41:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/diet_secrets/18445/#When:02:41:45Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Strategize To Pay Off Debt</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/strategize_to_pay_off_debt/18257/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There aren&#8217;t many advantages to the economic downturn, but one is that people are more focused on saving money and paying off debt. For those who&#8217;ve run up their credit cards, the average amount owed is more than $16,000.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 01 Jan 2009 21:54:28 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/strategize_to_pay_off_debt/18257/#When:02:54:28Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Save With Cordless Cell</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/save_with_cordless_cell/18184/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Looking to cut your monthly phone bills? Or maybe your cell phone drives you crazy because you don&#8217;t have good reception at home. Consumer Reports just tested a new type of cordless phone that could be just for you. It&#8217;s a cordless phone that can wirelessly connect to your cell phone. Consumer Reports tested ones from AT&amp;T, GE, and Panasonic.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 21:00:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/save_with_cordless_cell/18184/#When:02:00:53Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Gloomy Holiday Retail Sales</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gloomy_holiday_retail_sales/18190/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A gloomy week after Christmas for retailers. The slump in sales this holiday could continue into the new year.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:09:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gloomy_holiday_retail_sales/18190/#When:23:09:26Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>&#8216;Fate Of The Stallion!&#8216; Book Focuses On Love, Second Chances</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fate_of_the_stallion_book_focuses_on_love_second_chances/18005/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
&#8220;Fate of the Stallion!&#8221; by Ron Hevener, 2000, Pennywood Press, $12.95, softbound, 247 pages: First written as an adult romance novel, &#8220;Fate of the Stallion!&#8221; changed when the publishing company shut down. The author, not caring to wait for the legal red tape to be cut, decided to rewrite the story as an illustrated children&#8217;s book. 
Black-and-white versions of Hevener&#8217;s artwork are found throughout the story, and at the back of the book is an order form with which you may purchase the color prints. 
Charged with Hevener&#8217;s distinct emotional style, &#8220;Fate of the Stallion!&#8221; is about love and second chances. The story follows Dan Marshall and the bay Arabian stallion he meets, Nahgua. 
Nahgua is the horse of Dan&#8217;s dreams, and he and the ghost of Walter Farley (author of &#8220;The Black Stallion&#8221;) guide Dan into his second chance, a reunion with his estranged daughter, Adrian.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:01:42 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fate_of_the_stallion_book_focuses_on_love_second_chances/18005/#When:05:01:42Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Read About &#8216;Beast Master&#8217;s Circus&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/read_about_beast_masters_circus/17960/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
&#8220;Beast Master&#8217;s Circus&#8221; by Andre Norton and Lyn McConchie, 2004, Tor, $6.99, softbound, 301 pages: The second in a series by these two authors, &#8220;Beast Master&#8217;s Circus&#8221; is easily understood without having read the previous installment or any of Norton&#8217;s &#8220;Beast Master&#8221; series. For those who don&#8217;t know, Beast Masters are people who are able to form a special connection to animals. This includes the sensing of emotions and thoughts in those to whom they are connected. 
Focusing primarily on Laris and her large telepathic cat, Prauo, the book takes place in an interstellar circus where the girl and her cat work. Laris has been illegally bound to her employer and is poorly treated, sometimes beaten (although this is never graphically portrayed). She is forced to commit unlawful acts on his behalf and dreams of starting over somewhere else.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:01:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/read_about_beast_masters_circus/17960/#When:05:01:11Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Book Focuses On &#8216;The Story Of Success&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/book_focuses_on_the_story_of_success/17961/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
&#8220;Outliers: The Story of Success&#8221; by Malcolm Gladwell, 2008, Little, Brown and Company, $27.99/$30.99 Canada, 320 pages: Your college alumni letter came the other day. You read it, surprised and a little depressed.
A first-class slacker you graduated with is a multi-millionaire now.&nbsp; The guy most likely to succeed has done just that and more. And that cheerleader you dated? She&#8217;s parlayed her pom-poms into prosperity, and she&#8217;s living large.
And you, well, you coulda been a contender, but the only &#8220;Rocky&#8221; you know has been life since college. Although you&#8217;re not doing too badly, your classmates obviously did better. Were they born lucky or did their parents &#8220;know somebody&#8221;?&nbsp; Find out the truth in the new book &#8220;Outliers: The Story of Success&#8221; by Malcolm Gladwell.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:01:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/book_focuses_on_the_story_of_success/17961/#When:05:01:09Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>&#8216;Fate Of The Stallion&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fate_of_the_stallion/18006/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Man&#8217;s Book Inspires Him To Create Documentary 

Ron Hevener is a man who loves animals. 
They have been part of his life from the beginning. He started out as an artist, painting and making clay figurines of the animals he so loved and selling his art at farmers&#8217; markets.
As interest for his work grew, he sold his items through the mail as well as at dog and horse shows. Later, he began to write and finally to tread the waters of a television production. 
Through it all, though, his inspiration has been animals and the people who love them. Hevener says he has hundreds of animals himself. 
&#8220;I am surrounded by them,&#8221; he said. &#8220;They are characters from my stories and models for my artwork.&#8221;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Dec 2008 00:01:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fate_of_the_stallion/18006/#When:05:01:01Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Declining Lottery Sales</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/declining_lottery_sales/18085/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Many Americans are strapped for cash amid the rough economy&#8212;especially after Christmas shopping.

So how about the chance for some easy cash?

Various state lotteries offer that.

But even the lure of millions of dollars isn&#8217;t enough for some people needing every dollar they have.

Brooke Baldwin has been looking into declining lottery sales.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 26 Dec 2008 22:27:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/declining_lottery_sales/18085/#When:03:27:57Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Consumer Recall Alert: Hallmark Snowglobes</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/consumer_recall_alert_hallmark_snowglobes/17999/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Hallmark is recalling 7,000 snowman snow globes because of a fire hazard.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 24 Dec 2008 08:39:47 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/consumer_recall_alert_hallmark_snowglobes/17999/#When:13:39:47Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Best Coffeemakers</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/best_coffeemakers/17979/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Consumer Reports figures you can save almost $350 a year by brewing coffee at home instead of buying it to go. Consumer Reports tested 34 coffeemakers.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:06:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/best_coffeemakers/17979/#When:03:06:16Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Consumer Watch Alert:&amp;nbsp; Cocoa Recall</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/consumer_watch_alert_cocoa_recall/17953/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Some gourmet cocoa products are on a recall list because they could contain an industrial chemical.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:03:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/consumer_watch_alert_cocoa_recall/17953/#When:16:03:38Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Recall: Cocoa Products May Contain Melamine</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/recall_cocoa_products_may_contain_melamine/17942/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Consumer Alert: Three brands of cocoa have been recalled because they may contain melamine.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 07:11:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/recall_cocoa_products_may_contain_melamine/17942/#When:12:11:48Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Credit Card Scam Could Ruin Holidays</title>
          <link>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/credit_card_scam_could_ruin_holidays/17940/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Area sheriff warns of telephone credit card scam.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 06:56:51 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/credit_card_scam_could_ruin_holidays/17940/#When:11:56:51Z</guid>
        </item>
    
    </channel>
</rss>