More than 15,000 children’s squishy toys recalled over deadly water bead hazard

More than 15,000 children’s squishy toys have been recalled or flagged by federal regulators because they contain water beads that can expand if swallowed.

Elmo teething toy recalled over choking hazard

The new recall involves Baby Sesame Street Elmo Silicone Teethers which were sold in stores and online between January 2025 and March 2026, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Walmart berry recall expands over E. coli contamination risk

The new recall is an expansion of one issued in July with federal health officials saying the affected frozen berries were sold at Walmart stores in multiple states including Florida, Illinois, and Minnesota.

Thousands of magnetic wireless power banks recalled over fire, burn hazards

About 32,400 XO Poppy Power Trip Magnetic Wireless Power Banks sold exclusively at TJX and Marshalls stores have been recalled because their lithium-ion batteries can overheat and ignite.

New USDA rule could force thousands of convenience stores to stop accepting food stamps

Thousands of convenience stores in the U.S. could have to stop accepting food stamps unless the federal government delays a new rule requiring them to carry more fresh produce and protein.

Mortgage rates hit highest level in more than a year

Mortgage rates rose to their highest level in more than a year, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate increasing, Freddie Mac reported.

JetBlue unveils new first-class seating for domestic flyers

The airline's new BlueFirst cabin will offer more legroom, upgraded dining, priority airport perks and enhanced onboard technology on select domestic routes.

Chevron plans to double Venezuelan oil production
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We are learning more this week as oil giant Chevron confirmed that it will expand operations in Venezuela. This comes after President Donald Trump announced a deal to develop the nation’s oil reserves and give the Pentagon a stake in the profits. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Wednesday attended a ceremony in Venezuela’s capital to sign new agreements. LiveNOW’s Austin Westfall is speaking with Ed Hirs, an University of Houston Energy Fellow, as we learn more about how these deals will impact consumers. 

Labor Day 2026 food deals and discounts

Labor Day, observed annually on the first Monday in September, is a celebration of the achievements of American workers. To help you celebrate, many restaurants and eateries are offering deals and discounts.  

Labor Day 2026: Here’s what's open and closed

As the nation prepares to celebrate Labor Day, local businesses and major retailers are operating on varying schedules, with some stores modifying their hours while others remain closed for the holiday.

Recalled weight loss products are tainted with toxic substance, FDA says

A product sold for weight loss has been recalled because it contains toxic substances that can cause “a wide range of serious and potentially life-threatening adverse effects.”

Ford recalls nearly 150,000 Mustangs over wiring issue

Nearly 150,000 Ford Mustangs have been recalled over concerns that a wiring issue could cause a wide variety of problems, ranging from headlights not operating to the car not being able to move. 

Nationwide recall of pet food issued over salmonella concerns

Food and Drug Administration officials said the latest pet food recall covers Northwest Naturals Frozen Chicken Recipe and Northwest Naturals Frozen Raw Diet for Dogs Chicken Recipe sold in stores across the country.