THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026

Heat Rash Tips

Dermatologists say if those itchy little bumps start popping up, the key is cooling your body down. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, skip heavy lotions and use cool compresses. If the rash lasts more than a few days or comes with a fever, it's time to get it checked out.

Parents Need Time Alone

A new study found parents who get even a little personal time during the day are happier, less stressed and recover from stress more effectively. So if you've been feeling guilty about taking a little "me time," consider this your scientific permission slip.

Remembering Someone's Name

Memory experts say the trick is simple: actually focus when they introduce themselves instead of thinking about what you're going to say next. Repeat their name in conversation, and if it's unusual, ask them how it's spelled. Those small steps make it much more likely you'll remember it later.

Food Americans say represents US best isn’t apple pie, survey says

So, which food represents America the most?  CBS News aimed to find out & the numbers don't lie…Hamburgers stood on top with 33% of the vote…#2 Barbecue (25%), #3 apple pie…Then hot dogs & pizza round out the top 5…

4 More sections of Tunnel of Trees close after ‘extreme rain event’

There are four new closures along the famous Michigan Tunnel of Trees scenic roadway after heavy rain caused flash flooding across Northern Michigan on Monday…MDOT was about to repair one of two washouts that occurred during the April flooding when more extreme weather hit this week…The curving 22-mile stretch of M-119 overlooks Lake Michigan & attracts sightseers year round & is partially closed until the washouts can be repaired

THE AMERICAN DREAM IS STILL ALIVE

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, a new survey finds most people still believe in the American Dream.

Nearly three out of four Americans (73%) say they're proud to be American, and 71% believe they have the same—or even more—opportunities than their parents did.

Interestingly, getting rich isn't what people say matters most. Instead, the top answers were freedom, family, honesty, personal responsibility and having a fair chance to succeed.

CAN YOUR NAME MAKE A BAD FIRST IMPRESSION?

Turns out, yes.

A new survey says one in five Americans admits they've judged someone based solely on their first name.

And if you're wondering which name has the worst reputation, Karen wins by a mile.

The names with the most negative associations were Karen, Chad, Donald, John and Damien.

The survey also found 42% of people don't feel like they fit their own first name, and one in five wishes they could change it.

THE MOST AFFORDABLE AMERICAN-MADE CARS

Buying a new car isn't cheap these days, with the average new vehicle now costing around $50,000.

But Cars.com just released its list of the most affordable American-made vehicles, and every car on the list starts under $35,000.

The top five are the Toyota Corolla LE at $24,420, the Honda Civic LX at $25,890, the Toyota Corolla Cross L at $26,830, the Subaru Crosstrek at $28,415 and the Nissan Altima SV at $28,825.

Toyota actually claimed four of the top ten spots.

MORE AMERICANS ARE CUTTING BACK ON ALCOHOL

Heading into the holiday weekend, many people are planning backyard barbecues and cold drinks, but a lot of Americans are actually drinking less than they used to.

A new survey finds 36% of adults who drink say they're consuming less alcohol than they were a year ago.

The biggest reason is simple: half say they just don't feel like drinking as much anymore.

Another 35% say they're cutting back for health reasons, while 20% say alcohol has simply gotten too expensive.

DON'T TOUCH MY FRIES

Apparently Americans take their fries very seriously.

A new survey found 60% admit they've ordered an extra order of fries just so they wouldn't have to share.

The survey also found 82% have picked a fast-food restaurant specifically because they were craving its fries, 75% say fries have to be crispy, and 72% believe serving soggy fries should be considered a food crime.

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORK REMINDER

If you're setting off fireworks this weekend, safety experts have a few reminders.

Light fireworks in an open area away from anything that could catch fire, and only light one at a time.

Never use fireworks if you've been drinking, and keep children away from them. Experts note that even sparklers can burn at nearly 2,000 degrees and cause serious injuries.

It's also a good idea to keep a bucket of water or hose nearby and, whenever possible, leave the big displays to the professionals.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2026

POLICE WARN ABOUT NEW HEALTH INSURANCE SCAM

Police in Washington state are warning people about a sophisticated health insurancescam after one victim lost $80,000. The scam targets Chinese-speaking residents withcallers pretending to be from UnitedHealthcare, claiming there's a problem with thevictim's insurance or personal information. Victims are then transferred to additionalcallers, including someone dressed as a police officer during a video call to makeeverything look legitimate. Authoritiesremind everyone that real police will never askyou to wire money to avoid arrest, and legitimate businesses won't demand immediatepayment through wire transfers.

GEN Z HABITS THAT MAY DISAPPEAR

Reddit users are predicting which everyday habits could disappear with Gen Z, and thelist is pretty relatable. Among the most common answers were answering unknownphone calls, writing in cursive, memorizing phone numbers, buying CDs, ironing clothesand watching traditional TV instead of streaming. Others thinkphone calls themselvesare becoming a thing of the past, with texting now the preferred way to communicate.One prediction that's a little more concerning: people may soon stop trusting photos andvideos altogether because AI has become so convincing

World's Most Expensive Travel Destinations

If you're planning a bucket-list vacation, be ready to open your wallet. A new study says Greenland is the most expensive travel destination this year, with travelers spending an average of more than $1,100 a day. The British Virgin Islands and French Polynesia round out the top three, while Antarctica has the highest overall trip cost—an average 18-day adventure tops $27,000.

Americans Are Breaking Up With Their Favorite Brands

A new survey finds 60% of Americans have ditched a favorite brand this year because it's gotten too expensive. Groceries are where most people are making the switch, followed by personal care products and household items. Researchers also found seven in ten shoppers say they're less loyal to brands than they were just a year ago.

Amazon Prime Gas Deal

Prime members can save 50 cents a gallon on one fill-up of up to 20 gallons through Saturday. The discount works at participating BP, Amoco, AMPM and Thorntons stations after linking your Prime account with a free Earnify account and activating the offer.

Summer Parenting Hacks

From color-coded cups so kids stop dirtying every dish in the house to keeping grab-and-go healthy snacks in the fridge, parents on social media are swapping their favorite survival tips for summer break. Other clever ideas include using a makeup brush to apply sunscreen to squirmy kids and packing popsicles in an insulated tumbler filled with ice for trips to the park.

Retirement Planning

Financial experts say your retirement plan depends on much more than how much you've saved. Your lifestyle, healthcare costs, investment returns, how long you'll be retired and even how much you withdraw each year all play a role. The advice? Revisit your retirement plan every year and adjust as life changes.

What To Bring To A Fourth Of July Party

Party experts say the best guest gifts don't have to be expensive. A small gift for the host, a ready-to-serve side dish, or even backyard games can make you everyone's favorite guest. Just one rule—if you're bringing food, check with the host first so you don't show up with the third bowl of potato salad.

One-Minute Cleaning Tricks

Cleaning experts say a few one-minute habits can make a surprisingly big difference. Swapping out dirty dish towels, wiping down the bathroom sink, tossing clothes in the hamper, sorting the mail and clearing off your nightstand can all help keep your home looking tidy without spending hours cleaning.

Heat Rash Tips

Dermatologists say if those itchy little bumps start popping up, the key is cooling your body down. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, skip heavy lotions and use cool compresses. If the rash lasts more than a few days or comes with a fever, it's time to get it checked out.

Parents Need Time Alone

A new study found parents who get even a little personal time during the day are happier, less stressed and recover from stress more effectively. So if you've been feeling guilty about taking a little "me time," consider this your scientific permission slip.

Remembering Someone's Name

Memory experts say the trick is simple: actually focus when they introduce themselves instead of thinking about what you're going to say next. Repeat their name in conversation, and if it's unusual, ask them how it's spelled. Those small steps make it much more likely you'll remember it later.

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2026

AIR QUALITY ALERTS COULD LAST THROUGH THE HOLIDAY

If you're planning to spend time outside this week, you may want to keep an eye on the air quality. State officials say the combination of 90-degree temperatures, sunny skies and light winds is creating unhealthy ozone levels across parts of Michigan, and the poor air quality could stick around through the Fourth of July weekend. People with asthma, heart disease or other breathing problems are being urged to limit strenuous outdoor activity. Officials also recommend driving less, waiting to refuel your vehicle until evening and avoiding gas-powered lawn equipment to help reduce ozone pollution.

WHAT AMERICANS SAY IS THE BEST THING ABOUT THE U.S.

As America gets ready to celebrate its 250th birthday, a new poll asked people what makes the country special. The top answer? The people, with 44% saying that's the best part of the American way of life. Land and natural resources came in second, followed by the economy. When asked about America's greatest invention, freedom and democracy topped the list, beating out the lightbulb and the internet.

PARENTS SAY CHILDHOOD IS FLYING BY

A new survey finds two-thirds of parents feel one year with their children goes by fast, and 91% say time seems to speed up as kids get older. Parents believe there's only about a seven-year window when children are old enough to enjoy family vacations but still actually want to go, and many worry that window is closing fast. Eight out of 10 parents wish they'd taken more trips when their kids were younger, while nearly nine in 10 say they didn't realize just how quickly childhood would disappear until it was already happening.

MIDLAND'S PLYMOUTH POOL IS CLOSED

If you were hoping to cool off at Plymouth Pool in Midland, you'll have to make other plans. The city says the pool is closed until further notice after a key part of its filtration system broke. Crews are working on repairs, and officials say they'll announce a reopening date as soon as the system is fixed. Residents can check the City of Midland website, the Parks and Recreation Rainout Line or the department's social media pages for updates.

AMERICANS ARE GOING BIG FOR THE FOURTH OF JULY

It looks like Independence Day celebrations are back in full force. A new survey finds 87% of Americans plan to celebrate the Fourth of July this year, spending a record average of more than $94 per person on food. Cookouts, barbecues and picnics remain the most popular tradition, with nearly two-thirds planning to fire up the grill, while 44% will head to fireworks or community celebrations.

THE HOT DOG TASTE TEST HAS A WINNER

If you're wondering which hot dogs deserve a spot on your Fourth of July grill, the website Art of Manliness rounded up eight popular brands for a blind taste test. The winner was Oscar Mayer Jumbo Beef, praised for its great flavor and satisfying snap. Costco's Kirkland dogs came in second, followed by Ball Park Angus, which testers said tasted exactly like a classic hot dog should. At the bottom of the list were Oscar Mayer Classic and Bar-S, with judges calling them bland, mushy and forgettable.

MICHIGAN'S FIREWORKS RULES AHEAD OF THE FOURTH

Before you light that fuse this Fourth of July, make sure you know Michigan's fireworks laws. Consumer fireworks like bottle rockets, Roman candles and firecrackers are legal on private property with the owner's permission, but they're not allowed on public streets or in parks. It's also illegal to use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or while smoking. Violating the law can lead to fines, and in serious cases involving injuries or deaths, the penalties can include hefty fines and even prison time. The safest bet? Save the fireworks for legal areas, keep water nearby and leave the professional displays to the pros.

POLICE WARN ABOUT NEW HEALTH INSURANCE SCAM

Police in Washington state are warning people about a sophisticated health insurance scam after one victim lost $80,000. The scam targets Chinese-speaking residents with callers pretending to be from UnitedHealthcare, claiming there's a problem with the victim's insurance or personal information. Victims are then transferred to additional callers, including someone dressed as a police officer during a video call to make everything look legitimate. Authorities remind everyone that real police will never ask you to wire money to avoid arrest, and legitimate businesses won't demand immediate payment through wire transfers.

GEN Z HABITS THAT MAY DISAPPEAR

Reddit users are predicting which everyday habits could disappear with Gen Z, and the list is pretty relatable. Among the most common answers were answering unknown phone calls, writing in cursive, memorizing phone numbers, buying CDs, ironing clothes and watching traditional TV instead of streaming. Others think phone calls themselves are becoming a thing of the past, with texting now the preferred way to communicate. One prediction that's a little more concerning: people may soon stop trusting photos and videos altogether because AI has become so convincing.

LOTTERY JACKPOTS KEEP CLIMBING

If you've been thinking about buying a lottery ticket, this might be the week to do it. the Mega Millions jackpot continues to grow after another drawing without a grand prize winner. Mega Millions has now climbed past the half-billion-dollar mark, with tonight's jackpot sitting at an estimated $511 million.

EASY WAYS TO STAY HYDRATED THIS SUMMER

With dangerous heat settling in across much of the country, experts say staying hydrated is more important than ever—even if you're not a fan of plain water. They recommend carrying a reusable water bottle, adding fruit or natural flavors to make water more appealing, blending fresh smoothies or juices, using hydration reminder apps and eating foods with high water content like watermelon, cucumbers and strawberries. The key is finding a method that works for you before dehydration becomes a problem.

MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2026

Americans Are Eating a Lot of Ice Cream This Summer

July is National Ice Cream Month, and a new survey shows Americans can't get enough of the frozen treat. Six in 10 people call themselves ice cream fanatics, and the same number say it's their favorite dessert of all time. The average American eats 11 scoops of ice cream every week during the summer, adding up to more than 35 pounds per person over the season. And if you're wondering about the great cone versus cup debate, nearly twice as many people say they'd rather eat their ice cream from a cup or bowl than a cone.

Mom's "Strict" Summer Rules Spark Online Debate

A mom on TikTok is sparking a heated debate over her "strict" summer rules for her kids. She says her goal isn't to punish her children but to keep them from getting bored with a little structure. Her rules include reading every day to earn screen time, practicing math for 20 minutes, spending at least two hours outside being active, and sticking to a bedtime. The video has been viewed more than 12 million times, with some people saying kids deserve a carefree summer, while others praise the routine and say it's helping prepare them for success.

Study Finds Young Adults Are More Nervous About Growing Up

A new study suggests today's young adults are more anxious about growing up than previous generations. Researchers found that while fears about adulthood tend to fade with age and experience, younger generations are reporting higher levels of what's called "maturity fears." Researchers believe concerns about the economy, social pressures and an uncertain future are making the transition into adulthood feel more overwhelming than it did for college students in past decades.

Daily Habits That Can Make You Happier

People may think happiness just happens, but experts say it's actually something you can build with small daily habits. Researchers say simple things like performing a few acts of kindness, spending time in nature, practicing gratitude, finding humor in everyday life and even taking a break from your phone can all help boost your mood. Other suggestions include showing yourself more compassion, letting go of anger and taking time to appreciate moments of awe. The idea is that when positive habits make you feel good, you're more likely to keep doing them.

Simple Hacks for a More Comfortable Long Flight

If you're getting ready for a long flight, a few simple tricks can make the trip much more comfortable. Travel experts recommend bringing a neck pillow, sleep mask and headphones to make it easier to rest, while compression socks and getting up to stretch every couple of hours can help improve circulation. Staying hydrated, dressing comfortably and choosing your seat carefully can also make a big difference. They also suggest downloading movies, shows and offline maps before you leave, and packing your carry-on as if your checked luggage might not arrive with you.

Why Pilates Continues to Grow in Popularity

Pilates has become one of the most popular workouts around, and experts say there's a good reason for it. Physical therapists say Pilates helps build core strength, improve flexibility, posture and balance while also increasing overall strength and muscular endurance. It can even help reduce back pain and support mental health by reducing stress. Whether you're new to fitness or looking to mix up your routine, Pilates offers benefits that go well beyond just getting a good workout.

THREE PHRASES YOU SHOULD NEVER SAY TO YOUR PARTNER

Couples therapists say arguments are normal... but your choice of words matters.

Here are three phrases they say you should avoid:

• "You always..." or "You never..." It puts people on the defensive.
• "You're overreacting." It dismisses how the other person feels.
• "If you loved me, you would..." That's emotional manipulation, not communication.

Therapists say healthy couples aren't the ones who never argue—they're the ones who make each other feel heard, even during disagreements.

BEAUTY MYTHS PEOPLE ARE READY TO STOP BELIEVING

Some beauty advice just refuses to die—even when it's wrong.

Here are a few myths people say need to disappear:

• Shaving doesn't make hair grow back thicker or darker.
• You can't "train" your hair to need less washing.
• Brushing your hair 100 times a day isn't necessary.
• "Clean beauty" doesn't actually have a regulated definition.
• Expensive skincare isn't automatically better skincare.
• If a product tingles, it doesn't necessarily mean it's working.
• And maybe the biggest myth of all... that aging is something you have to "fight."

Sometimes the best beauty advice is also the simplest: be kind to yourself.