Author: Emma Caplan-Fisher

In November, just before Thanksgiving, Ben Phillips called Box Appliance, a San Francisco Bay Area appliance repair company he’d used before, to fix a leak in his 22-year-old refrigerator.

But this time around, after several visits and a $4,000 bill, the technician not only upsold him to replace the compressor, but they also didn’t actually fix the leak.

That’s when Phillips noticed there was not one but two Box Appliances online.

"I go, I’ve been taken here," he told ABC 7 News. "I can’t believe I fell for it."

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Phillips was later told by a real Box Appliance technician that the refrigerator couldn’t be repaired and, worse, that they wouldn’t have even taken the job. "That would have saved me," Phillips, whose temporary solution became a shower pan and paper towels, had responded.

The appliance scam

Box Appliance is fully aware someone is impersonating them, stealing thousands of dollars from their customers and not fixing their appliances.

"It’s really hard explaining to these customers that they were swindled, basically," Stephanie Chapman, Box Appliance customer service manager, told 7 News.

The scammers buy domains and domain extensions similar to their own, including "box-appliance" or "boxappliances.co," Chapman explained.

Then, according to Box Appliance president Ryan Bergo, they use sponsored ads to rank higher on Google, getting exposure and appointments. While he and his team have tried to have the fake sites removed, Bergo described it as playing whack-a-mole.

"We take one down and another one goes right back up," he told 7 News.

Regardless, the company is warning customers to ensure they’re on the correct website and calling the right phone number. Bergo also says real Box Appliance technicians have vans with Sub-Zero logos on them, whereas the impersonating technicians come in unmarked vehicles.

Victims have filed reports, and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office is one agency investigating the issue — and trying to find those posting the fake sites. They want to hear from anyone in the county who’s been impacted.

"We’re seeing this not only in the Bay Area but across the state," Brooks Jarosz, senior communications officer with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, told the news channel.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

How to protect yourself and avoid financial losses

Although Phillips wasn’t so lucky, there are things you can do to protect yourself and avoid falling victim to similar scams.

• Verify service providers through trusted sources, like the Better Business Bureau. You can also use the Bureau of Household Goods and Services or other similar resources to verify the license of a repair company and confirm their legitimacy.

• Check for official certifications. If a company claims they hold a certification, look it up. Spend time researching the certifying body’s website or calling the organization to verify what their certification means and that the business in question is being honest.

• Check company reviews. There will always be poor reviews and less-than-happy customers, but the red flag to watch for is if the company is consistently low-rated across the board. Be sure to look at reviews not only on their website but also on third-party sites, like Google or Yelp.

• Understand how to report fraud. If you do end up victimized by a scam, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s site, ReportFraud.ftc.gov, to report it and see if you are eligible for available support. You can also check your state’s consumer protection office for additional information and resources.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

When most people are in their 30s, there’s a lot of pressure to be in good financial standing. But what if you’re $25,000 in debt from a mix of student loans and credit card balances, and you only make $4,000 a month?

If those monthly payments are stretching you thin, that likely means you haven’t even started saving for retirement. Although it’s a fairly common situation, and can feel overwhelming, there are ways to turn things around.

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According to Experian’s 2024 Consumer Credit Review, the average American carries $105,056 in total debt from things like credit card balances, mortgages and student loans.

So no, you’re not alone — but it’s time to make a plan. Here are three strategic options to help dig yourself out of debt and start building a better future.

Prioritize and simplify your debts

When you’re juggling multiple debts, the first step is to organize and prioritize.

Start by separating your high-interest debt — typically your credit cards — from your lower-interest student loans. You may want to explore the following options:

• Use the avalanche method. Focus on paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first (usually credit cards), while making minimum payments on the rest. This reduces the total amount you’ll pay over time. As one balance is paid off, redirect those payments to the next highest-interest debt.

• Consider a debt consolidation loan. Even if your credit score isn’t very good (that is, below 670, according to Experian), you may still qualify for a personal loan with a lower interest rate. You can use it to consolidate your credit card balances into one monthly payment, ideally at a fixed rate. Just be sure to avoid adding new credit card debt during the payoff process.

• For student loans, look into federal repayment programs. If your federal student loans are unmanageable, explore income-driven repayment (IDR) options — which cap payments based on your income and family size. For some, monthly payments can drop significantly or even hit $0.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Rebuild breathing room in your budget

You don’t need to suffer endlessly, but you do need to restructure your spending. Start by creating a simple budget with breathing room.

Every dollar should have a purpose, whether it’s rent, food, debt or savings. Here’s how to find extra space:

• Pause or cancel non-essentials. Think subscriptions, takeout or unused memberships.

• Renegotiate bills. Call your internet, phone and utility providers. Many offer promotions or hardship plans.

• Use an app to track spending. Net worth tracking apps like You Need a Budget make it easy to see where your cash is going.

• Add a side hustle. Things like freelancing, tutoring and rideshare driving can bring in extra cash. Even an extra $200 a month can make a big difference when applied to debt.

Start saving for retirement — even just a little

It’s tempting to delay retirement savings until you’re out of debt, but even small contributions now can compound significantly over time.

You can start by opening a Roth individual retirement account (IRA) through a low-fee provider. You could also set up a small, monthly transfer to auto-deposit on payday — that way, not only will you save time, but you won’t forget or be tempted to skip it.

Even contributing $25 a week (or $100 monthly) can help you build momentum and take advantage of compounded growth.

Plus, Roth IRAs are funded with after-tax dollars, so withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

They say if you can make it in New York City, you can make it anywhere. But for a growing number of middle-class families, just making it in the city is becoming nearly impossible.

According to a new report from Henley & Partners, NYC boasts nearly 400,000 millionaires, the most of any city in the world.

Over the past decade, the number of NYC millionaires has grown by 45%, fueled by investors, tech entrepreneurs, and business elites flocking to the metropolis. While the pandemic briefly stirred fears of a mass exodus, New York’s wealthy stayed put — and multiplied.

But the influx of wealth is coming at a cost. Everyday New Yorkers, even those earning six-figure incomes, are feeling the squeeze.

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Forced to leave

Dana Dennis, born and raised in Brooklyn, is one of many caught in the city’s affordability crisis.

She and her husband earn more than $100,000 a year — a salary that would provide a comfortable life in many other parts of the country. Yet, after the birth of their first child, they realized staying in Brooklyn was untenable.

"I was seeing things on the market for like $4,500 [monthly rent] if I wanted to stay, even in (Bedford-Stuyvesant). This is not Midtown that we’re talking about, right? I’m talking about central Brooklyn," Dennis recalled to NBC News.

Unable to find a two-bedroom apartment they could afford, the family relocated to New Jersey — and they’re far from alone, according to a study from the Fiscal Policy Institute. In 2022, residents leaving NYC were most commonly earning under $172,000 a year. What’s more, over a third of those leaving said they moved specifically in search of affordable housing.

In response to the issue, NYC Mayor Eric Adams has a "City of Yes" initiative, aimed at dramatically increasing housing construction, with the goal of adding tens of thousands of new units over the next 15 years.

Still, for many like the Dennis family, that help isn’t arriving soon enough. Even New Jersey isn’t necessarily a safe, long-term haven. "We aren’t finding houses, not even here in New Jersey, that are under $750,000," Dennis indicated.

The hidden costs of relocating

While moving may seem like an obvious solution, uprooting a family from NYC comes with its own set of challenges, both emotional and financial.

First, families often must navigate complex and competitive job markets in their new cities. Changing jobs can sometimes mean taking a pay cut or losing valuable benefits.

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Then comes the logistics of enrolling kids in new school systems, each with different standards, calendars and bureaucracies. For example, a study found that 62% of organizations identified family concerns, including children’s education issues, as a primary challenge in employee relocation decisions.

Tax implications add another layer of complexity. States like New Jersey have different income tax structures than New York State, which introduces new rules about property taxes, income taxes and even vehicle registration.

There’s also the emotional toll of starting over. Social networks built over the years — from trusted babysitters to childhood friends and family — are often left behind. Rebuilding a support system takes time and can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness.

A vicious cycle

Affordability may not change in the near term, as the median mortgage payment nationwide reached an all-time high of $2,800 in March.

Plus, cities that once seemed like economical refuges are a contributor, as they become more expensive themselves. For example, in "tertiary cities" like Asheville, North Carolina, rising interest rates and real estate investors are driving up the cost of living, creating a vicious cycle throughout historically affordable markets.

Bill Faeth, real estate investor, noted Asheville is currently a "top-five market in the entire country" for short-term rental investors.

As he put it, "When we go in, we are going to affect that median cost of living. There is no question."

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

For the third time, Amanda Sparks, the owner of A&L Sheds, has been arrested — this time, in Montgomery County, Texas.

Authorities allege she scammed more than 100 people out of more than $1 million by promising to build sheds and tiny homes that were never delivered.

Sparks’ previous arrests occurred in Gray and Harris counties, and now a $12 million civil judgment has been issued against her by the Harris County Attorney’s Office.

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"It’s heartbreaking. It’s very heartbreaking," victim Julia Marino told KPRC 2 News Houston.

"My mother passed away just last month. If I had my $8,100, I could help with her funeral."

A web of victims and a $12 million judgment

Sparks faces felony theft charges after a warrant was issued by Johnson County. According to investigators and victims, she allegedly collected large upfront payments — ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 — often in cash, from individuals and organizations expecting sheds or tiny homes. In many cases, contracts were signed, but no work ever began.

Victims include private citizens as well as vulnerable groups including a church, a domestic violence shelter and even a construction crew claiming it completed work in 2023 but was never paid.

Victim Charlotte Clifford, who says she paid $16,800 up front, recalled her experience to KPRC reporters

"She wrote out a contract — I’ve got the contract, all the paperwork at home — telling us when she was going to start our building. It never happened.”

The fraud unraveled when more than 100 people came together via a Facebook group, where they compared notes and documented their stories, revealing a pattern of broken promises and missing funds. Their collective effort culminated in a complaint submitted to the Harris County Attorney’s Office in late 2024.

Marino, an organizer behind the complaint, emphasized the importance of recordkeeping and speaking out.

"We’re showing a paper trail because we’re all in this together,” she told KPRC News. “We’re trying to get a resolution on this. It’s just taking a little time.”

The result of that work was a $12 million judgment signed at the end of March 2025, which could help victims recover some of their losses.

With housing costs on the rise, more people are turning to tiny homes as an affordable alternative. According to one report, 73% of Americans would consider living in a tiny home.

However, this case highlights how the booming industry has presented an opportunity for scammers.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

Watch for red flags and protect yourself from builder scams

If you’re planning to purchase a tiny home, here are some ways to protect yourself. The key is staying vigilant and doing your homework before committing.

Verify builder licensing and references

Ensure your builder is licensed and bonded. Ask for references, check online reviews and their rating with the Better Business Bureau. Reputable builders should have a portfolio of completed projects and satisfied clients.

Get a detailed contract

A legitimate builder should provide a detailed contract outlining timelines, materials, payment terms and guarantees.

Avoid paying 100% up front

Never pay the full amount before any work is done. A deposit, typically 10% to 25%, is reasonable, but further payments should be tied to completed work milestones. Your state may have limits on how much a contractor can ask for up front, check your local laws.

Use escrow services

Escrow accounts protect your money by only releasing funds when both parties meet agreed-upon terms. This is especially helpful for large transactions.

Watch for red flags

High-pressure sales tactics, vague or verbal-only agreements and refusal to show credentials or provide timelines can all be warning signs.

Keep all documentation

Save emails, receipts, signed contracts and messages. This can be helpful in disputes and legal actions, should it come to that.

What to read next

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• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

The heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown is under siege — not by bulldozers or policy bans, but by something just as destructive: the trade war.

The neighbourhood’s small shops are feeling the pinch from U.S. tariffs on China, which are now at 145%. The owners have weathered economic downturns for generations, shifting demographics, and even the pandemic. These businesses operate on small margins, face tight competition, and serve a largely elderly clientele living on fixed incomes.

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Edward Lau, who owns a shop selling China-imported herbal products and supplements for pain relief, is among the business owners worried about the impact. Raising prices to offset higher costs could drive customers away, gravely impacting their livelihoods. However, absorbing these increased costs indefinitely isn’t sustainable.

"It’s becoming more expensive so people will start thinking of alternatives or simply won’t use it … They’ll be hit really hard," Lau told CBS News. "The uncertainty makes it really hard to do business."

Although over 90% of North American manufacturers moved at least some of their production out of China between 2018 and 2023, small mom-and-pop businesses like Lau’s will continue to struggle under current conditions.

The impact of tariffs on small businesses

Tariffs are directly increasing the cost of imported goods — such as merchandise, food items and supplies — that small businesses rely on, both in San Francisco’s Chinatown and across the country.

Beyond higher costs, supply chain disruptions caused by tariffs can make some imports scarce or only available at steep prices.

As a result, owners struggle with strained cash flow and lower profit margins. Without financial reserves or a buffer, many have no choice but to raise prices or adjust their pricing strategies.

The longer these challenges persist, the greater the impact on customers. Many may turn to larger competitors, which benefit from economies of scale and can keep prices down.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

How consumers can cope — and help

If rising costs are affecting your go-to products, it can sting. The good news? There are ways to cope with the shift while also supporting small businesses.

• Buy locally sourced alternatives and make direct purchases from small businesses. This eliminates intermediaries, helping to keep costs down.
• Compare prices and hunt for discounts. Taking time to comparison shop, use coupons and plan around sales can make a difference.
• Consider generic brands or bulk purchases when they offer better value.
• Use a cash-back credit card. Many credit cards offer rewards based on spending categories. If you can pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest, you can turn everyday spending into extra savings.
• Consider vintage, refurbished or like-new its. Gently used or vintage goods are often more affordable. Many retailers also sell certified refurbished electronics and furniture at a fraction of the price of new ones. Just check for warranties and authentication where needed.
• Adjust your budget and lifestyle. Small tweaks — like dining out less, finding free or low-cost entertainment or hosting friends at home — can help absorb rising costs on essential purchases.

By making strategic choices, you can ease the financial strain while helping small businesses stay afloat.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Jamie Catmull, host of The Richer Way, has spent years interviewing more than 100 millionaires — from high-powered CEOs and industry leaders to self-made entrepreneurs — to uncover the key to their success.

"I wanted to help people take more control of their finances … share how (highly successful people) dealt with setbacks and came out stronger,” Catmull reveals in a CNBC article. “They don’t sit around waiting for anything, certainly not luck, because they make their own.”

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• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

Catmull has identified some common traits we can all learn from. Here are three that stood out the most and what research says about why they’re so important.

1. They’re highly disciplined

Discipline came up repeatedly in Catmull’s conversations with millionaires. Jaspreet Singh, CEO of Briefs Media, told Catmull that discipline is a factor that sets many millionaires apart.

“It takes a lot of discipline to get up when you don’t feel like it, get to work before everyone else, stay after everyone else, and keep working when people say you’re working too hard,” he said.

That discipline includes delaying gratification and committing to investment over the long term.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

According to The National Study of Millionaires by Ramsey Solutions, 94% of millionaires surveyed said they consistently lived below their means, and 75% said their secret to success lies in "regular, consistent investing over a long period of time."

2. They embrace failure and uncertainty

Rather than fear setbacks, millionaires welcome them as opportunities to learn and pivot.

“You don’t learn to walk by following rules,” Virgin Group founder Richard Branson told Catmull. “You learn by doing, and by falling over.”

Barbara Corcoran, real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor said she has used the ‘fake it till you make it’ mindset to push through her fears and dive into the unknown: “You must learn not to second-guess yourself.”

Research supports this growth-through-failure philosophy.

According to the Harvard Business Review, entrepreneurs who fail early and try again are more likely to succeed in future ventures, especially if they learn from their mistakes rather than fear them.

This attitude applies to investing as well, exploring alternative investments and taking educated risks as part of a diversified portfolio. Working with a financial advisor can help in this regard.

3. They don’t let their past dictate their future

Catmull found that some of the millionaires she interviewed had overcome significant adversity.

Instead of letting early hardships define or trap them, they used those experiences as fuel. Derik Fay, founder of 3F Management, shared that he experienced he grew up in poverty and experienced abuse.

“For the longest time, I thought my childhood was going to define me as a victim,” he said. “Then I discovered that the exact things I thought had destroyed me … had the power to redefine me.”

Lynette Khalfani-Cox, known as The Money Coach, also grew up in poverty. Her parents tried to make ends meet with five girls in the home.

“My dad was a shoe shiner, and my mom was a cashier and secretary,” she said. “(They) were always struggling financially."

Now Fay helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses, while Khalfani-Cox is a best-selling author helping others build wealth.

Similarly, Rachel Rodgers, CEO and founder of Hello Seven, grew up in Queens. The author of We Should All Be Millionaires is committed to helping others achieve the same success.

As she shared with the Harvard Business Review, she does ‘thought work’ every day to challenge the negative ideas that she faces. She encourages others to do the same.

“If we don’t learn how to filter those thoughts, we start to believe them,” she says. “Eventually, they can lead to a scarcity mindset."

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• Robert Kiyosaki warns of a ‘Greater Depression’ coming to the US — with millions of Americans going poor. But he says these 2 ‘easy-money’ assets will bring in great wealth. How to get in now

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

In a housing market that’s been pro-seller for a while, many Houston buyers have been scared off, choosing to rent instead. However, as things shift into buyer territory, Houstonians may soon see the scales tip in their favor, with more opportunities for discounts or other perks.

For instance, the Woolcoxes recently found their dream home. Despite expecting land and house prices to go up as they’d been seeing, the retired Houston couple decided to make an offer on a house they eventually got.

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• Gain potential quarterly income through this $1B private real estate fund — even if you’re not a millionaire. Here’s how to get started with as little as $10

A shifting Houston market

Wondering if they were "absolutely out of [their] minds," their kids advised against the purchase. Even as they were being told they should be downsizing, not upsizing, the Woolcoxes decided to put in on the house anyway. In an interview with KHOU 11, the couple shared, "If it’s really what you want and it feels right, just do it."

And there is indication their decision will pay off.

Kat Robinson, vice chair of the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR), told KHOU 11 that fear and — at times — frustration for potential buyers caused by the strong sellers’ market led many to give up, tipping the favour towards buyers.

"That negotiation fatigue is real," she said, and is something that led to an influx of housing inventory and the potential buyer’s market shift. Although technically, Houston is currently in a balanced market, "Right now we’re sitting on 4.5 months of inventory, which puts us leaning more towards that buyer’s market."

HAR confirms this tip when comparing property sales from February 2024 and February 2025, noting sales dropped 4.7%. According to Robinson, this means more opportunity for buyers, "To get a discount or more repairs done by the sellers or credits for those repairs."

How to take advantage of a buyer’s market

Even if you’re not in Houston yourself, a buyer’s market is the perfect time to purchase a home because supply exceeds demand — just as Houston is experiencing. This gives you more power in negotiations, including the ability to be pickier, take your time and strategize on price.

Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

If you feel the time might be right, maximize your opportunity with these tips:

Negotiate your price aggressively

Sellers in a buyers’ market may struggle to get offers, making them more open to price reductions. Take time to research comparable properties sold recently in your choice areas to determine a fair offer, and don’t be afraid to submit a bid below asking. If the home has been on the market for an extended period, you may have even more room to negotiate.

Ask for seller concessions

In a competitive market, buyers often cover many closing costs, but in a buyers’ market, you can ask the seller to help with expenses, which could save you thousands. These may include loan or appraisal fees, title insurance or even a home warranty. Why not put that money towards new furniture, or even in your nest egg, emergency fund or other investments? Even relatively small savings can make a meaningful difference, so ask for them.

Request home repairs or upgrades

Sellers eager to close a deal may be willing to make needed repairs, or even extra upgrades. When issues are identified after the home inspection, negotiate to have major concerns fixed before closing, or request a credit to cover the cost of repairs you oversee later.

In addition, consider taking advantage of these strategies:

Get pre-approved for a mortgage to move quickly

With more buyers competing for deals, getting pre-approved for a mortgage shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared, which can make your offer more attractive.

Work with a local agent for market insights

A knowledgeable real estate agent can help you identify motivated sellers, hidden deals and properties that have been on the market too long, giving you an edge in negotiations. Agents also provide insight into fair pricing and trends in your area of interest.

Secure favorable loan terms

Lenders may offer better mortgage interest rates and terms when fewer buyers are in the market. You could potentially secure a lower mortgage rate, reducing your monthly payments and overall loan cost.

What to read next

• Don’t have the cash to pay Uncle Sam in 2025? You may already be eligible for a ‘streamlined’ handshake with the IRS — here’s how it works and how it can potentially save you thousands
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Arizona father and son, Randy and Chad Miller, have reportedly been indicted in an alleged scheme that targeted investors looking to fund a sports complex.

The elaborate plot, which resulted in more than $280 million in defrauded funds, involved municipal bonds linked to a large sports complex in the city of Mesa.

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Federal prosecutors allege the pair deceived investors about prospective interest in the use of Legacy Park (formerly Bell Bank Park). The Millers used forged documents to sell what were essentially worthless bonds, according to prosecutors.

The father–son duo now face four major charges, with victims ranging from individuals to organizations, including one that promotes athletes living with disabilities.

What happened?

According to federal investigators, the Millers orchestrated an elaborate fraud centered on Legacy Park, a massive sports venue near Mesa Gateway Airport.

The pair reportedly created fake demand by forging "binding" letters of intent from sports groups and customers, falsely claiming that the venue would be fully occupied and generate more than $100 million in its first year — more than enough to cover bond payments.

In some instances, prosecutors allege that the Millers directed others to sign letters without permission or copied forged signatures onto fabricated documents.

“Essentially, the Millers made solicitations … particularly through bonds that were based on false statements and misrepresentations,” criminal defense attorney Jason Lamm told AZ Family.

The fraudulent documents misled investors into believing the project had significant, credible backing. However, the project began unraveling soon after opening in 2022.

By October of that year, the park had defaulted on its bond payments and filed for bankruptcy the following spring. Despite the estimated $284 million raised, federal officials say less than $2.5 million was ultimately used to repay bondholders. The complex was eventually sold for less than $26 million.

The FBI’s assistant director in charge, Christopher G. Raia, remarked to AZ Family: “Randy and Chad Miller allegedly chose to use a planned sports complex as a means to exploit and defraud investors … the FBI will continue to ensure a level playing field by holding fraudsters accountable.”

Prosecutors said the money was allegedly used to enrich the Millers personally, with things like a home, SUVs and inflated salaries.

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The father-son duo has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud, one count of securities fraud, one count of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

“The Millers allegedly executed the scheme using fraudulent documents to lie about the status of the proposed project in order to raise hundreds of millions of dollars which they used to enrich themselves,” Raia said.

How to spot similar investment scams

Investment scams involving municipal bonds or large development projects often prey on good intentions, especially when tied to community efforts.

Awareness and skepticism are your best defense. Here are some red flags and practical tips to avoid being deceived.

Lack of transparency. If financial documents, contracts or project plans aren’t readily available, that’s a warning sign.

Pressure to act quickly. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to discourage due diligence.

Unrealistic returns or projections. Promises of high or guaranteed returns, especially on municipal bonds, should raise suspicion.

Missing independent verification. If third-party audits or evaluations are unavailable, it may signal fraudulent intent.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Verify bond issuers. Check with the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board and Electronic Municipal Market Access database to confirm a bond offering’s legitimacy.
• Consult financial advisors. Before investing significant sums, especially in unfamiliar financial products, speak with a licensed investment advisor or securities attorney.
• Research the project thoroughly. Look for third-party confirmations, such as news reports, planning commission documents or business filings.
• Don’t rely on just the pitch. If the only source of information is the promoter, it’s time to ask questions and dig deeper.

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A Reddit post that went viral spurred debate around seat-swapping on flights and issues of fairness, entitlement and airplane etiquette.

The "finally said no" poster in the "r/delta" forum shared their experience with a couple asking to swap seats so they could sit together.

Describing themselves as a lifelong "people pleaser," the poster explained they’d often agreed other times. But this time, they weren’t interested in giving up their aisle seat for a middle one.

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“I looked at this woman and her husband and simply said, ‘no thanks,’” they wrote.

“The look on her face! You would’ve thought I slapped her.”

Despite some initial guilt, the poster maintained their decision as the couple’s behavior and comments "steeled my nerves." The woman, on the verge of tears, stated that her trip would be "absolutely awful" without her husband beside her.

The debate

The story drew significant attention. Commenters applauded the decision and shared similar experiences, suggesting that the couple could have paid for seat selection and that there should be mutual benefit when switching seats. One commenter also wrote, “If you’re brave enough to ask, you have to be brave enough to handle a NO."

The post highlights how passengers broadly view personal boundaries on flights. While some view these requests as innocent and situational, others argue they’re presumptuous — especially when made without offering a comparable seat or when the seats weren’t selected in advance. It’s often about asserting personal comfort and agency in a high-stress, confined environment.

"The person making the request has no right to expect [this] or make a scene when they don’t get their way,” etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall told Fox News.

Randall pointed out the circumstances when it might be reasonable or only mildly inconvenient to switch: during a short flight, when there’s a comparable seat elsewhere or if you’d prefer to sit apart from your current neighbor.

Similarly, a commenter said they would only give up their seat for a person bumped from another flight and consequently split up from their child or someone with special needs.

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Secure ideal seats and avoid the swap dilemma

To avoid the discomfort of being asked to switch seats or feeling pressured to ask someone to switch for you, it’s important to plan ahead. Remember, while consumer rights vary by airline, typically, seat assignments aren’t guaranteed unless reserved.

Here are some tips to get your preferred seating arrangement:

• Book early. The earlier you book your flight, the better your chances of selecting desirable seats, especially when traveling with others.
• Use seat selection tools. Most airlines offer online seat maps from which to choose seats during booking or check-in.
• Join loyalty programs. Frequent flyer status can offer you early seat selection access, preferred seating options or complimentary upgrades.
• Pay for preferred seats. If sitting together is important, consider the upgrade fee for guaranteed adjacent seats.

How to navigate the conversation smoothly

Despite best efforts, the switching question can still come up. But seat-swapping doesn’t have to be tense. Come from a place of humility and understanding. If you’re asking, do so politely and, obviously, never with the assumption that someone is obligated to accommodate you.

Likewise, if you’re asked and feel uncomfortable responding, remember, you’re entitled to the seat you booked. Standing your ground and advocating for yourself will bring you peace of mind.

You can be kind and respectful yet firm and assertive, without guilt. Short, direct responses are usually best, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Here are a few polite yet assured things to say:

• “No, thank you — I prefer to keep this seat,” is concise and clear.
• “I specifically booked this seat,” indicates your choice wasn’t random.
• “Sorry, but I’m not comfortable switching,” courteously sets a boundary.

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