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Author: Jessica Wong

  • ‘Trying to feed the family’: This Houston woman, 73, works 7-day weeks running 4 Western-wear stores — with no plans to retire

    ‘Trying to feed the family’: This Houston woman, 73, works 7-day weeks running 4 Western-wear stores — with no plans to retire

    Back in 1991, Berna Macías was just trying to make ends meet when she started selling cowboy hats at a local flea market.

    “It was very cheap,” she recalled to KHOU News, but that simple choice laid the foundation for a family-run brand that has lasted more than three decades.

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    At 73 years old, Berna, a great-grandmother of 14, is still working seven days a week. Retirement? Not even on the horizon.

    And Berna’s not the only one: more and more seniors are working into their golden years.

    From humble flea market to Texas fashion fixture

    Today, the Macías name is synonymous with handcrafted hats and rodeo-ready fashion. Her son Raul still mans the original flea market stall on Airline Drive, shaping hats with the same precision his mother taught him.

    In fact, Berna brought all six of her kids to the stall, turning the hustle into a hands-on masterclass in entrepreneurship.

    “I am the baby of the family. I’m the sixth one,” said Alfredo Macías. “Just trying to feed the family.”

    Building a business hasn’t come without challenges. When thieves once wiped out an entire store’s inventory, Berna considered walking away.

    “I thought I’d close it all, because I lost everything,” she shared.

    Instead, she doubled down.

    The family now runs four brick-and-mortar stores under the brands Indomable and Silver Back Rodeo, alongside the original flea market location. They sell everything from custom-shaped hats and leather belts to traditional cowboy boot repair, serving ranch hands to Rodeo Houston showstoppers.

    Nearly 30 employees keep things running, about half of whom are family, including grandchildren.

    The Macías family proves one thing: never underestimate the power of a cowboy hat and a hardworking mom who won’t quit.

    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

    The new retirement plan might be no plan at all

    Retirement used to be a finish line. Now? For millions of Americans, it’s a pit stop or something they skip entirely.

    In 2024, nearly 1 in 5 Americans aged 65 and up were still clocking in, nearly double the rate from the 1980s, according to U.S. labor data.

    The average retirement age in the U.S. has climbed from 57 in the 1990s to 67-plus today, and is still rising.

    So, why aren’t folks retiring yet?

    About 80% of older workers say they still need the income, and 64% are scared they will outlive their money, according to a survey by Transamerica Retirement Studies.

    A 2023 Pew study found workers 65-plus are more satisfied with their jobs than their younger peers.

    Retirees are un-retiring, coming back to work for passion, not just pay. Whether it’s consulting, freelancing, or running their own gig, retirees are becoming retirees on their own terms.

    This generational shift isn’t small potatoes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics says the number of Americans over 65 has grown 457% since 1950, with life expectancy now hovering around 79 years.

    Meanwhile, participation rates for those 75 and older are expected to nearly double by 2030, a demographic trend with big implications for the economy, housing, and even job design.

    While some older Americans are still on the clock out of financial necessity, a rising number say it’s about identity, impact, and joy.

    Retirement isn’t dead. But the old idea of sitting back on a porch and watching the world go by may become outdated for those who want (or have to) keep clocking in.

    For today’s older Americans, the new retirement plan might just be no plan at all. And for many, that’s exactly how they like it.

    What to read next

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

  • ‘Grateful to walk away’: 2 houses in this Florida county were recently engulfed in flames caused by popular lithium-ion batteries — but are battery fires covered by insurance?

    ‘Grateful to walk away’: 2 houses in this Florida county were recently engulfed in flames caused by popular lithium-ion batteries — but are battery fires covered by insurance?

    It started with a lithium-ion battery left charging on a workbench.

    That single battery caused a raging fire that tore through the Odonnell family’s garage in Spring Hill, Florida.

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    “Absolutely it was sitting on his work bench, which is wooden. Probably had some oil and WD-40 and things on it and I think it just went up,” homeowner Cindy Odonnell told WFLA.

    The fire erupted without warning, gutting the entire garage of the home in Hernando County. “And there were fire trucks all up and down the road and there was smoke pouring out of the house and water running down the sides, from all sides from everywhere I could see,” she added.

    The incident makes clear the risk posed by lithium-ion batteries — and it’s a risk that fire departments across the country are sounding the alarm on.

    ‘We’re just grateful to walk away’

    “Lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles, that’s a hot topic in the fire services across the country,” said Hernando County Fire Chief Paul Hasenmeier. “There are a large number of fires. Probably right now our leading cause of fires in residential houses is from lithium-ion batteries.”

    Hasenmeier confirmed this is the second lithium-ion battery fire within a few weeks in Hernando County alone.

    Just two weeks before the Venetia Drive garage blaze, Hernando County Fire Rescue responded to another lithium-ion battery fire, this time in Brookridge, at a mobile home on Moriah Avenue, according to a report by WFLA.

    The blaze had started while a golf cart was charging inside a side garage, then quickly spread and engulfed the mobile home. Though firefighters extinguished the fire in about 30 minutes, the property was a total loss. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

    While the Odonnells lost much of their property, they’re counting their blessings.

    “We’re just grateful to walk away from it all,” Steve Odonnell said. He and their beloved three-legged squirrel, Flash, escaped unhurt.

    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

    What are lithium-ion batteries, and where are they used?

    Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere, from smartphones and laptops to drills, e-bikes, electric scooters and Teslas. They’re small, lightweight, and pack a lot of energy.

    These batteries store energy using highly reactive chemical compounds. If damaged, overheated or improperly charged, the internal components can trigger a phenomenon known as “thermal runaway,” where the battery self-heats, ignites and explodes.

    As these batteries become cheaper and more widespread, especially in off-brand e-bikes, hoverboards and power tools, fires are becoming a national crisis. Even name-brand batteries can catch fire if left charging too long, stored improperly or paired with incompatible chargers.

    Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies cover fire damage. But if the fire was caused by misuse, like charging a battery overnight on a flammable surface or using a non-certified charger, your claim could be denied, delayed or reduced.

    If you have a “named perils” policy, only specific causes of damage, like lightning, theft or vandalism, are covered.

    If battery fires aren’t listed, you may not qualify for coverage. On the other hand, “open perils” (also called “all-risk”) policies offer broader protection, covering any damage not explicitly excluded. Even these can contain fine print around personal electronics or third-party devices, so always read the fine print.

    Don’t forget to think about policy caps. Your coverage may be limited to a percentage of your home’s value, regardless of what the repairs actually cost.

    How to protect your home and your wallet

    Fire safety officials are warning homeowners to treat lithium-ion batteries with the same caution as gas-powered appliances or open flames. That means not charging batteries unattended, especially overnight, and always using Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certified products.

    Keep charging stations away from anything flammable. Avoid leaving batteries plugged in after they’re fully charged. And if a battery ever feels hot, starts to swell, or emits a weird smell, get rid of it properly and immediately. Improper disposal can lead to fires in garbage trucks and recycling centers.

    Protect your wallet and check your policy. Make sure you understand the difference between open and named peril coverage, review any exclusions for personal electronics, and ask your agent about endorsements for high-risk items like EV chargers or large-capacity battery packs.

    As fires like the ones in Spring Hill and Brookridge make headlines, it’s clear that lithium-ion batteries are a household risk and an insurance wild card. For now, the best protection is a mix of fire-safe habits and a clear, up-to-date insurance policy.

    What to read next

    Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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

  • ‘It’s time to pay the fiddler’: As chill sets in on Florida’s once-hot housing market, sellers are now getting squeezed — but here’s why it’s no buyer’s paradise either

    ‘It’s time to pay the fiddler’: As chill sets in on Florida’s once-hot housing market, sellers are now getting squeezed — but here’s why it’s no buyer’s paradise either

    Florida might still be basking in sunshine, but its once-sizzling housing market has simmered down.

    The momentum that fueled pricing spikes during the pandemic has taken a sharp turn. For the first time in years, buyers are regaining leverage.

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    Sellers, squeezed by skyrocketing insurance premiums, softening demand and growing inventory, are cutting prices, covering closing costs and easing up on contingencies just to seal the deal.

    But is this shift a buyer’s paradise? According to real estate experts, the Florida housing story is more complicated than simply buyer-friendly.

    Pandemic housing frenzy hits pause

    During the COVID-19 era, a wave of remote workers, sun-seeking transplants and looser restrictions turned Florida into ground zero for red-hot real estate. Builders raced to meet demand. Now that demand has cooled.

    Then came two hurricanes, a spiraling insurance crisis and record-breaking homeownership costs. Panic-inducing headlines are drawing comparisons to the 2008 crash, but experts urge caution before sounding the alarm.

    “It’s nowhere near that,” real estate expert Vincent Arcuri said recently on Full Circle Florida. “Interest rates are at 6.5 %, if you saw interest rates go anywhere in the 5s, you would see the market shift overnight, properties would start to skyrocket again, so it does have a lot to do with how much I’m putting down and how much is my payment? And that’s what really drives the economics of people buying homes.”

    Some homeowners who bought at the peak may be feeling the pinch.

    “You have people that came from the pandemic that overpaid, now it’s time to pay the fiddler,” Arcuri said. “I think those people that came in and paid $50,000, $100,000 over market, they’re seeing a reduction now in value, plus they overpaid when they bought, which is offsetting some of the equity in those homes.”

    So are the issues local or regional? According to Arcuri, Florida’s housing market isn’t uniform.

    Inventory is rising in parts of Florida like Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, but much of that is due to condos, not single-family homes. The surge is being driven by region-specific factors: new milestone inspection rules, skyrocketing HOA fees and soaring insurance premiums — all of which are dragging down condo sales.

    While headline numbers may suggest a broad market slowdown, many statistics are skewed by the flood of condo listings. The situation is more regional than statewide.

    Recent hurricanes have only added pressure, particularly on older and coastal condo communities, while inland areas and single-family markets remain more resilient.

    So, when will the market bounce back? That largely depends on policy. And as Arcuri puts it, “Until we have significant insurance reform.”

    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

    What does it mean for buyers and sellers?

    As homes spend more time on the market — especially in places like Tampa Bay and South Florida — buyers are seeing the return of perks not seen since before the pandemic.

    But that doesn’t mean today’s buyers have it easy. While home prices may be stabilizing, hidden costs loom:

    Florida now has the highest average home insurance premiums in the U.S., with some regions seeing rates above $11,000.

    Condo owners in coastal cities are facing 15% plus hikes in HOA fees due to mandatory inspections and storm upgrades.

    Mortgage rates remain high, hovering around 6.5%, making monthly payments a real hurdle. Many first-time buyers are already stretched thin by student loans and rising living costs.

    Sellers, meanwhile, must adjust to a slower market. Price cuts and concessions are increasingly common, especially for condos facing the brunt of the state’s insurance and structural safety challenges.

    So, what should sellers be thinking about? First, price your home realistically. Overpricing means your listing will sit. Consider offering incentives, like covering closing costs, to stand out. Know your costs. High insurance and maintenance fees can make your home harder to sell, so be upfront and ready to discuss those with potential buyers. Most experts agree — this isn’t 2008. Homeowners today typically have equity and more responsible loans. Still, without insurance reform, expect a choppy market.

    For now, buyers should do their homework and negotiate hard. Sellers should stay realistic and flexible. Arcuri suggests homeowners just stay put.

    “If you’ve got a low interest rate, be patient,” he said. “These markets are cyclical. I’ve seen this happen time and time again. Florida’s fundamentals are still strong. Give it a couple of years, and we’ll be talking about the next housing boom.”

    What to read next

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

  • This Phoenix woman thought she was covered when she was hospitalized during a ‘dream’ 72-day cruise — and then her insurer denied her $45K claim. Here’s why and what to know before you travel

    This Phoenix woman thought she was covered when she was hospitalized during a ‘dream’ 72-day cruise — and then her insurer denied her $45K claim. Here’s why and what to know before you travel

    Pat Wuensche and her family are seasoned travelers. So when they found a two-part cruise, Los Angeles to Japan, then Singapore back to the U.S., they jumped at the opportunity to go on the 72-day cruise.

    At the time of booking, their travel agent offered insurance and Wuensche didn’t hesitate.

    “I thought, ‘We’re going to be gone a long time,’” she told Arizona’s Family News, “‘we better cover ourselves.’ So I went ahead and paid for it on both trips, just as a precaution.”

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    Unfortunately, the safety net vanished when they needed it most. Now, they’re left with a little more than $45,000 in uncovered expenses, despite having paid for a policy they thought would protect them.

    A $45,000 shock

    Wuensche fell ill and was hospitalized once the family arrived in Japan.

    “So, [the doctor] said, ‘How long can I keep you in the hospital?’ And I said, ‘How about one day?’” Wuensche said. “And he said, ‘No, you need to cancel the whole rest of your trip.’”

    The second cruise was canceled, and Wuensche spent a total of 57 days in the hospital.

    “The doctors knew very few [English] words,” she said. “When they first discovered it was COVID, I was put in isolation so my family couldn’t even visit. I was really in isolation. It was tough.”

    Wuensche knew the bills would be steep, but she felt reassured by the insurance she’d purchased.

    When she got home, Wuensche filed a claim with Aon, the company affiliated with the cruise line.

    Instead of reimbursement, Wuensche says she faced months of silence and repeated requests for more documents.

    “It is frustrating because you think you can go there with peace of mind knowing if something happens, you’re OK,” she said. “And unfortunately for us, something happened.”

    After months of back and forth, Aon responded. According to the company, Wuensche’s policy only covered her cruise, not the medical emergency that caused her to cancel it.

    They agreed to cover the $8,000 cruise cancellation fee, but not the $45,000-plus in hospital and hotel costs.

    “It should be covered. Absolutely,” Wuensche said.

    The policy did save the family from cruise cancellation penalties, but it left them on the hook for the much larger cost: the actual medical emergency.

    It’s a tough lesson in the realities of travel insurance.

    Travel insurance can be quite specific, and even a slight change in your itinerary can make your coverage null and void.

    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

    The fine print travelers can miss

    For millions of Americans, like Wuensche, travel insurance feels like peace of mind.

    According to Hotel News Resource, the number of paid claims for travel delays grew by 15% in 2024, with average payouts rising by 8% compared to 2023. The most common claims were emergency medical ones — for the first time in more than a decade — making up 27% of all paid claims.

    However, insurance can feel like a maze of fine print, exclusions and technical loopholes that most travelers only likely discover after their claims are denied.

    Wuensche assumed that since she had purchased insurance for the duration of the trip, she’d be protected regardless of what happened. But based on the terms and conditions, once the second part of the trip was “canceled,” all other benefits, including medical coverage, were terminated.

    How to avoid a financial meltdown on vacation

    Want to avoid being the next headline? Here are some travel insurance tips to keep in mind.

    First, buy your insurance early, ideally, right after booking. Waiting too long can exclude you from coverage for unforeseen events, like storms or labor strikes.

    Second, read your entire policy and not just the summary. Pay attention to cancellation rules, limits on coverage and what triggers termination of benefits. Don’t assume that because you’re on a trip, you’re still covered. As in this case, policies can end medical protection the moment your travel status changes.

    Third, ask direct questions before buying. Will I be covered if I cancel midtrip? What if I’m hospitalized in another country? Do I need to file through my health insurance first? Get the answers in writing if possible.

    Finally, don’t assume your credit card or employer-provided insurance will fill the gap. Those benefits can be secondary and cover only what is not paid for by a primary insurance plan.

    The Wuensche family’s $45,000 ordeal is more than just a travel horror story; it’s a cautionary tale for every traveler who’s ever clicked “add insurance” without doing their due diligence.

    What to read next

    Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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

  • North Carolina woman turns to The Ramsey Show after boyfriend of 10 years blindsides her with $80K in secret credit card debt — why they say she can’t make his generosity her guilt

    North Carolina woman turns to The Ramsey Show after boyfriend of 10 years blindsides her with $80K in secret credit card debt — why they say she can’t make his generosity her guilt

    A Raleigh, North Carolina woman was completely blindsided when she found out her boyfriend kept a $80,000 secret from her.

    In a jaw-dropping call to The Ramsey Show, caller Allie shared that she recently discovered the massive amount of credit card debt her boyfriend of 10 years kept hidden from her.

    The bombshell didn’t stop there.

    "I knew he had $40,000 in student loans that he was slowly paying off. And he recently asked me to co-sign on a $100,000 HELOC on his home that he owns," Allie told co-hosts George Kamel and Jade Warshaw.

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    How the caller’s boyfriend mismanaged his finances

    The first question Kamel had for the caller is what is his addiction. Allie responded that her boyfriend runs a classic car restoration shop that isn’t making any profit.

    “I thought he was making more money than he was. Apparently, he wasn’t. He was leveraging most of it on credit cards,” she said. Despite being good at what he does, he lacks business sense: “He sees a build, he buys it, he builds it, he gets bored with it, he sells it, repeat, repeat, repeat.”

    Allie added, “But then he can’t pay off that credit card debt because he has maxed out every card and is pretty much at the end of his rope.”

    Feeling emotionally indebted

    Allie did consider co-signing the HELOC loan out of guilt — despite not being on the home’s deed. Two years ago, she was in a nearly fatal car accident that left her disabled and financially devastated. Her health insurance company sued her to recoup over $500,000 in medical costs, costing her savings, her house, car and job. The only thing left untouched was her kids’ college savings.

    Her boyfriend took care of her during the ordeal and she’s since been living in his house after losing everything.

    “I felt like I owed him,” she said.

    Warshaw made it clear that generosity shouldn’t be a debt to repay and that these two situations aren’t comparable. “The hard part is you’re feeling like ‘this person took care of me’ … And if this goes south, you kind of feel like you’re up a creek without a paddle because this is where you’re living.” Kamel added that Allie shouldn’t enable financial misbehavior because of this prior deed.

    Despite being together for a decade, Allie and her boyfriend aren’t married and she’s been paying all their bills, while remaining debt-free. Still, her salary is $35,000 a year, down from the $70,000 she made as a former ER nurse.

    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

    Allie now works in a physically-demanding maintenance role for the county and suffers from spinal and traumatic brain injuries.

    Even with a good credit score, moving out is a challenge because of high rental rates, but Allie agreed with the co-hosts’ advice about looking for roommates and alternative housing to help diffuse the costs of living.

    “He’s broke. I’m broke because I’m supporting both of us,” she said.

    So what can you do if you’re stuck in a similar situation? And what should you look out for in a relationship where money is an issue?

    Toxic money problems and what to do

    Money imbalances in relationships can be a deal-breaker and they can show up in more ways than one.

    • Parent-child dynamic: This is when one partner takes on responsibility for the other’s finances and life management, similar to how a parent might. It can show up as one partner paying all the bills while the other doesn’t contribute, requiring reminders to the other partner to work or pay debts. It means the “parent” partner feels responsible for the other and carries the emotional load of managing finances for everyone.

    • Invisible labor imbalance: This can include non-financial labor, like extensive emotional support, meal planning and preparation, household chores and childcare. The bottom line is this labour isn’t equal among partners and it isn’t reflected in monetary compensation. A 2023 Pew Research study found that women still carry the bulk of household and emotional labor, even when both partners are working.

    • Rescuer-victim dynamic: This is where one partner “saves” the other from problems (often financial or emotional), making the “victim” feel codependent on the “rescuer.” It shows up as paying for bills, managing frequent crises and the use of guilt and manipulation to fortify a power imbalance.

    • Financial abuse: Financial imbalances specifically can lead to financial abuse, where the abuser withholds money in a power play that keeps victims trapped in unhealthy relationships that can also include other forms of abuse. According to The National Network to End Domestic Violence, financial abuse shows up in a staggering 99% of domestic violence cases.

    How to rebalance the relationship

    If you choose to stay and work on the relationship, here are some ways you can rebalance the partnership to avoid future enabling of poor financial management:

    • Financial transparency: List all income, expenses, debts and consider using a shared budgeting tool.

    • Create expectations: Even if you earn different amounts, each partner should contribute to the lifestyle (groceries, rent). Two ways to balance this contribution is to either split all expenses down the middle, regardless of each partner’s income, or to expect each partner to contribute a share proportional to their income. The value of invisible labour, such as childcare, should be factored in here as well.

    • Set boundaries: Agree not to pay for your partners’ nonessential bills, for example.

    • Set a timeline: Give a clear, time-bound plan (3-6 months) to see change. Track progress (employment, reduced debt and other efforts such as working a side-hustle).

    • Consider help: Couples counseling or financial coaching can be helpful to get neutral third-party support and to learn skills like shared budgeting.

    If you choose to leave

    In Allie’s case, the Ramsey Show co-hosts emphasize leaving, even if she has to rent with roommates because:

    • It interrupts the enabling cycle.
    • It can create less permeable boundaries around her finances and mental health.
    • Short-term discomfort (like shared living) is often worth it to get independence back.

    The Ramsey team also urged Allie to find less physically demanding, higher-paying work that accommodates her health limitations and that gives her more options than dragging her boyfriend’s debt with her.

    What to read next

    Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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

  • Some Las Vegas resorts are rolling out deals and packages to entice tourists in an effort to offset sticker shock on the Strip — but is it enough of a pull for today’s thrifty travelers?

    Some Las Vegas resorts are rolling out deals and packages to entice tourists in an effort to offset sticker shock on the Strip — but is it enough of a pull for today’s thrifty travelers?

    Sin City is sweetening the pot for tourists.

    Visitor numbers fell by 6.5% to start 2025 as of April compared to last year, according to the Las Vegas Conventions and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). This decline in tourism has led some resorts to shift gears by rolling out wallet-friendly perks aimed at travelers looking to stretch their dollars.

    “The days of the $1.99 breakfast, $7.99 steaks, that’s all gone,” Randy Luedtke from Wisconsin told Channel 13 Las Vegas in a story published June 16. “I see a lot of minimums at the tables are $25, $20, so I’m going to probably do most of my gambling downtown.”

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    He’s not alone. The Strip’s glitzy casinos experienced a small dip in gaming revenue at the start of 2025, while budget-friendly downtown quietly cashed in with a modest uptick, per the LVCVA. In addition, hotel occupancy on the Strip was also down, while daily room rates increased to $203.17 in April from $194.42 a year ago.

    Economic realities may be reshaping visitor behavior, and resorts are taking notice.

    Deals are on for visitors

    Some Las Vegas staples are turning up the value to try to get people back into the city.

    For example, The Strat launched a summer deal with weekday rooms starting at $49, weekends at $99, plus a $25 daily dining credit. Resorts World is offering free parking until Aug. 28.

    Downtown, The Plaza is offering an all-inclusive food and drink package starting at just $125 per person until Aug. 30. Circa is also offering a two-night stay for $400, including $100 in dining credits and $100 in beverage credits, through Sept. 4.

    The LVCVA has also launched a campaign called “Locals Unlocked,” aggregating deals from major resorts for residents.

    “All of our resort partners have locals programs,” LVCVA CEO Steve Hill told Channel 13.

    Luedtke says the deals are out there, but you may have to look for them.

    “They’re working with people to get them here. I will say that, they’re trying,” he said. “I can’t tell you that they’re getting the word out enough that there’s these options available.”

    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

    Are the savings worth it?

    So, do the deals being offered really make a difference in terms of savings? The short answer is, sometimes.

    It can be worth it if you make use of all the included perks, including drink credits, meal vouchers and resort amenities. All the better if you’re able to avoid resort fees. On the other hand, it may not end up being a great deal if you’re paying for bundled items you wouldn’t normally use. Gambling without a budget can also eat into your savings.

    Still want to hit up Sin City? Here are some other savings tips for travelers:

    Timing is everything: Visiting on weekdays can cut your hotel bill by a significant amount and also help you dodge the crowds.

    Sign up for loyalty programs: Many casino brands offer perks like discounted stays, complimentary parking and food or gaming credits just for joining.

    Ditch the taxis and rideshares: Las Vegas’s Deuce bus and monorail systems are budget-friendly and cover a good portion of the city.

    Pack your own basics: Small expenses add up fast, so pack snacks, reusable water bottles and other essentials to avoid paying hotel gift shop prices.

    Set a gambling budget: Gambling always has the potential to derail your finances. You can still have fun if you pick a limit and stay within it.

    For entertainment: Book tickets for shows early or maybe you’ll get lucky finding last-minute deals online.

    Las Vegas is always ready to deal visitors in, but it’s up to you to figure out how to make the deals work for your wallet.

    What to read next

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

  • Nearly 3 years after the largest heist in US history, California police arrest 7 suspects accused of stealing 24 bags of gold, diamonds and other gems worth $100M

    Nearly 3 years after the largest heist in US history, California police arrest 7 suspects accused of stealing 24 bags of gold, diamonds and other gems worth $100M

    It’s been called the largest jewelry heist in U.S. history. In 2022, thieves made off with approximately $100-million worth of gold, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and luxury watches.

    For three years, authorities tried to track the criminals — and the loot — down. As KTLA 5 reports, federal officials got a big break this June when they pulled over a vehicle en route from one jewelry show near San Francisco to another in Pasadena.

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    In the process, they recovered some of the stolen goods.

    Seven men are indicted on federal charges in connection with the heist. If found guilty on all counts, they each face prison sentences of 20 years or more.

    One of them — Jazael Padilla Resto, 36, of Boyle Heights (alias Ricardo Noel Moya, Ricardo Barbosa and Alberto Javier Loza Chamorro) — is already an inmate in Arizona state prison.

    His co-accused are:

    • Carlos Victor Mestanza Cercado, 31, of Pasadena
    • Pablo Raul Lugo Larroig, (alias Walter Loza), 41, of Rialto
    • Victor Hugo Valencia Solorzano, 60, of Rampart Village, Los Angeles
    • Jorge Enrique Alban, 33, of South Los Angeles
    • Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores, 42, of Upland
    • Eduardo Macias Ibarra, 36, of Westlake, Los Angeles.

    ‘Kind of stuff you see at the Oscars’

    While authorities are still trying to locate the remainder of the stolen gems and watches, they do know how criminals carried out the heist.

    As KTLA 5 reports, on July 10, 2022, criminals followed a Brinks truck — loaded with priceless gems and luxury goods — 300 miles from a jewelry show in San Mateo to a rest stop in Lebec, California.

    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

    One of the Brinks crew went inside the rest stop for a 27-minute break while his colleague slept.

    It was enough time for thieves to break into the truck and make off with 24 out of 73 bags of jewelry bags of priceless gems and luxury goods, described by the Los Angeles Times reveals as “the kind of stuff you see at the Oscars.”

    Authorities also accuse Mestanza, Padilla, Lugo, and Valencia of allegedly stealing $240,573 worth of Samsung electronics from an interstate cargo shipment in Ontario, California on March 2, 2022.

    The same seven suspects are accused of attempting a brazen crowbar break-in at a Fontana rest stop. Though that job failed, they bounced back, making off with about $14,081 worth of Samsung electronics from another interstate shipment in Fontana, according to federal officials.

    Why jewelry heists are big business for thieves

    Industry experts say high-value jewelry thefts are surging, and that thieves are outpacing security measures with sophisticated criminal tactics. Jewelry’s compact size and high value make it an attractive target for thieves.

    In 2023, reported losses reached $133.2 million, a 2.9% increase from 2022, according to the Jewelers Security Alliance.

    “The increase in dollar losses can be attributed to highly professional criminals and organized gangs carrying out high-dollar crimes resulting in large losses,” the alliance reports.

    High-tech methods

    Jewelers Mutual reports that today, jewelry thieves use mobile hunting cameras for surveillance, Wi-Fi jammers to disable alarms and tools like torches and angle grinders to break into safes. They exploit jewelry stores with outdated security systems by gaining access through rooftops and shared walls.

    Organized and sophisticated crime

    The FBI links the rise in jewelry thefts to organized criminal rings, some from Columbia. These groups work out detailed plans to pull off big heists. They use big cities like Los Angeles, Miami and New York as ‘fencing cities’ to convert stolen jewels into cash.

    Industry response

    Now industry groups like Jewelers Mutual and the Jewelers Security Alliance are sounding the alarm. They recommend that jewelry businesses update alarm and other security systems, train staff in security measures and conduct regular security audits.

    The stakes are sky-high, and the race between law enforcement and sophisticated crime rings is far from over. For now, the glittering haul from that Lebec rest stop is a reminder that in the world of jewelry theft, the thieves still hold the cards — and the diamonds.

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

  • A Rolls-Royce was brazenly nicked from a Texas valet stand — and police say it led them to a $1.5M luxury car theft ring. How to protect your ride from those looking for ‘an opportunity’

    A Rolls-Royce was brazenly nicked from a Texas valet stand — and police say it led them to a $1.5M luxury car theft ring. How to protect your ride from those looking for ‘an opportunity’

    In a high-stakes bust, local and federal authorities swooped in on a suspected Dallas-area luxury car theft ring on June 11, recovering nearly $1.5 million worth of stolen high-end vehicles, including two Rolls-Royces, police say.

    Home surveillance footage obtained by NBC DFW shows Dallas SWAT, Plano officers and the FBI executing a search warrant on one of two properties that were raided, according to the broadcaster. It was the conclusion of a multi-agency investigation spanning several Texas cities.

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    As a result, police say, six stolen luxury vehicles were recovered, along with firearms, body armor and car theft tools. Three suspects were also arrested for theft over $300,000.

    Plano police were only looped into the larger investigation after the brazen theft of a Rolls-Royce at a local restaurant days earlier, reports NBC DFW. Here’s what happened, along with more details of the investigation.

    Haul of high-end cars

    On June 6, a 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre was stolen from the valet stall of a restaurant in an upscale neighborhood, Plano detective Jerry Minton says, after the vehicle owner handed the keys over to staff.

    “The suspect saw a targeted opportunity,” Minton explained to NBC DFW in a story published July 2. “They drove up in another vehicle, a white Mercedes, saw where the vehicles were parked and was able to obtain a set of keys.”

    As Plano detectives began their investigation, they were alerted by the Texas Department of Public Safety that the 2025 Mercedes S63 AMG at the scene was linked to other car thefts reported in Dallas and Grapevine, according to NBC DFW. Minton says the Mercedes was also stolen, and PPD joined the ongoing case.

    “We got in on the tail end of it, after they had already planned for the search warrants,” Minton said.

    The six vehicles recovered include a Rolls-Royce Spectre, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Cadillac Escalade-V, Maserati Levante and Audi RS7 — valued at nearly $1.5 million — police say.

    Minton says there was no pattern to how the vehicles were stolen. One more was taken from valet parking, he says, but another came from a vehicle transport, while the second Rolls-Royce may have been lifted from a gas station.

    “They weren’t targeting one specific method of stealing,” Minton said. “It was: they see an opportunity, they took it if they liked the car.”

    The arrested were Oscar Valdez, 28, Miguel Hernandez, 27, and Salvador Hernandez, 29, reports NBC DFW. Plano police say Valdez is a repeat offender with 15 active felony warrants, per the broadcaster, and remained in custody without bond. Meanwhile, both Hernandez men, who Minton says are not related, posted bond.

    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

    Drivers of all vehicles must stay vigilant

    Even if you don’t drive a swanky vehicle, Minton urged car owners to stay vigilant with regard to potential auto theft.

    “If you leave your vehicle, or even if you just get out, don’t leave it running, don’t leave the keys in it,” he warned. “A Honda Civic is as important to that person as the Rolls-Royce is to that owner.”

    It’s also a good idea to park in well-lit areas, or even behind a fence or in a garage. Don’t leave any valuables inside a vehicle.

    There are also several devices drivers can purchase to deter would-be thieves:

    GPS tracker: Hardwired or plug-in, a GPS tracker can be helpful at locating your vehicle if it gets stolen. Be warned these devices may come with a monthly service fee.

    Kill switch: Want a thief to sit confused while they try to start your car? A kill switch can interrupt vehicle ignition until toggled.

    Visible deterrents: Old-school methods still work in many cases. Steering wheel locks, brake locks and window stickers that warn of GPS tracking or other tech are some traditional methods of theft deterrent. A determined thief may still find a way past them, or they may opt for an easier target.

    Opportunity for thieves can be found anywhere, whether it’s a valet stand, a car transporter or even a gas station. Regardless of whether you drive a Bentley or a Buick, the right tech and habits can make all the difference.

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

  • A Washington man who was tricked into believing his Social Security Number was stolen was then scammed out of over $500,000 — here’s how to protect yourself from this slick scam

    A Washington man who was tricked into believing his Social Security Number was stolen was then scammed out of over $500,000 — here’s how to protect yourself from this slick scam

    It’s a scam so convincing that it’s raked in millions from unsuspecting residents across Washington State, including one victim who lost a jaw-dropping $870,000.

    Con artists posing as government agents are using high-pressure, fear-fueled tactics to trick victims into handing over huge sums. Many of the scams involve references to victims’ Social Security.

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    At least 47 victims have come forward — 27 in King County alone. Authorities believe that’s just the tip of the iceberg and are asking anyone with information about the scam to come forward.

    Patrick Hinds, who heads the Economic Crimes and Wage Theft Division at the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, is talking to local media to raise awareness of the problem.

    “In a nutshell, this scam really works by playing on people’s fear,” he told Fox 13 Seattle.

    Fake officials, real devastation

    It begins with an ominous email, text, or computer pop-up that appears to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or a related agency that claims your identity has been stolen or your accounts hacked.

    Victims are told to act fast and click on a link or call a number to connect with an official — when in fact they’re directed to a live con artist.

    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

    The scammers tell victims their safest course of action is to liquidate all their accounts — storing their money as cash or gold — and hand it over to a courier, who will deliver it to a federal agency, for “safekeeping.”

    “Of course none of that is true,” Hinds says.

    Social Security scams are among the most common of the imposter scams in the U.S., and cost unsuspecting Americans $577 million in 2024 alone.

    One Washington victim fell for just such a ruse when a scammer told him his Social Security Number had been compromised. He ended up losing more than $500,000 to the fraud.

    He told KIRO 7 that the imposters are convincing and definitely instill fear.

    “One of the first things they do is say, ‘We’ll have you electronically sign a non-disclosure agreement,’” he said. “They kept saying, ‘You can’t discuss this with anybody.’”

    Hinds confirmed the scammers create a sense of urgency and secrecy to manipulate their victims and conceal their wrongdoing. They keep the con alive with fabricated letters confirming “receipt” of funds, and more calls with “officials.”

    “They’ll bring in someone else who claims to be from a different agency, like your bank or the FBI,” said Hinds. “It’s all part of the trap.”

    How to protect yourself

    Of course, Washington isn’t the only state where this is happening. Across the U.S., imposter scams ranked first among all fraud types in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission, accounting for $789 million in losses — an increase of $171 million from 2023.

    Hinds urges the public to remember key ways to stay safe:

    Watch for 3 Red Flags:

    1. Fear: The message is meant to scare you.

    2. Urgency: You’re told to act now, with no time to think or ask questions.

    3. Secrecy: You’re warned not to tell anyone, not even your family or bank.

    Gut check

    Ask yourself, “Does this make sense?” If something feels a little off, your gut may be telling you something. Get a second opinion from family, friends and trusted advisors.

    Keep in mind:

    1. A real government agency would never use robocalls or texts to demand money via gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Hang up on suspicious calls and delete any such texts.

    2. Con artists ‘spoof’ (fake) legitimate email addresses and caller IDs to trick you, so even if an email or phone number looks real, it could be fake. Moreover, in this era of deep fakes, fraudsters can forge convincing documentation, with authentic-looking signatures and government logos, so be wary.

    3. You can always verify that communications are legitimate by cross-referencing with official government agency contact information.

    What to do if you’ve been scammed

    If you have fallen victim to a scammer, or suspect you have, here’s what to do:

    • Stop all contact with the scammer immediately.
    • Document everything including screenshots, messages and receipts.
    • Contact your bank to freeze accounts, reverse transfers or flag suspicious activity.
    • Contact local police.
    • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, and in the case of Social Security scams, the SSA Office of the Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov

    It’s important to act fast.

    Banks and card issuers may be able to reverse fraudulent charges. State and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) reimbursement programs might help in limited cases.

    Bottom line?

    “If someone asks you to withdraw all your money and give it to a stranger ‘for safekeeping’ — don’t do it,” Hinds said. “Real agencies don’t work like that.”

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

  • ‘Abusive and unfair’: Florida mom takes fight against her town to state Supreme Court after receiving $165K in ‘unconstitutional’ fines — her lawyers say it’s part of a broader national trend

    ‘Abusive and unfair’: Florida mom takes fight against her town to state Supreme Court after receiving $165K in ‘unconstitutional’ fines — her lawyers say it’s part of a broader national trend

    Sandy Martinez, a single mom in Lantana, Florida, is taking her town to the Florida Supreme Court to fight $165,000 in “outrageous” and “unconstitutional” fines for things like parking on her own property.

    “Six-figure fines for parking on your own property are outrageous,” her attorney Mike Greenberg said in a news release.

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    Greenberg works for the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit public interest law firm representing Martinez in the case.

    According to the organization’s website, its mission “is to end widespread abuses of government power.”

    Its lawyers argue that Martinez’s case is a textbook example of “taxation by citation” — where cash-strapped municipalities use minor infractions to justify outsized penalties as a revenue-generating machine.

    $100K in fines for parking at home

    As the New York Post reports, Martinez’s problems started in May 2019, when she was cited because cars at her home occasionally had two tires parked on the lawn.

    She said it was bound to happen with four family members and four vehicles. The penalty? A staggering $250 per day.

    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

    Martinez claims she tried to resolve the situation by meeting with a code enforcement officer after the initial violation, but those attempts were “fruitless,” and fines kept mounting — tapping out at $100,000 in parking violations.

    Lantana officials didn’t stop there. According to court filings, Martinez was fined for cracks in her driveway, something she didn’t have the money to fix right away. That resulted in daily $75 fines for 215 days, totaling $16,125, “far greater than the cost of an entirely new driveway,” Martinez said in her lawsuit.

    Then came the fence. After a major storm knocked it down, Martinez waited for her insurance to cover repairs. While she waited, the city fined her $125 a day for 379 days, adding up to $47,375 in penalties.

    Martinez sued the city over the fines in 2021, but lower courts sided with the town.

    “It’s surreal that the town still refuses to admit that what it’s doing to me is abusive and unfair,” Martinez said.

    Now in her appeal to the Florida Supreme Court, her lawsuit cites Florida’s Excessive Fines Clause, which mirrors protections in the U.S. Constitution.

    Local officials have not publicly commented on the case.

    It’s up to Florida’s Supreme Court to decide whether the punishment truly fits the "crime", or if it’s an abuse of power dressed as municipal regulation.

    How to protect your wallet from property fines

    While Martinez’s case may be extreme, it highlights just how quickly minor violations can snowball into major financial stress.

    Here are some practical ways homeowners can stay ahead of fines, reduce financial risk and protect their assets:

    Get written notice and document everything. If you receive a code violation notice, ask for it in writing. Keep records of all correspondence, photos of your property before and after corrective actions and any receipts or repair quotes. Paper trails are crucial if you have to defend yourself legally or contest fines.

    Know your local ordinances. Municipal codes can vary, with some towns enforcing rules more strictly than others. Review your city’s or HOA’s code enforcement policies so you’re not caught off guard by unexpected fines. Most city or county websites post their code enforcement rules and fine schedules.

    Act right away. Respond immediately to any violation notice. Contact the code enforcement office and ask for a walkthrough or extension while you fix the issue. Proactive communication can sometimes prevent daily fines from stacking up.

    Set up a home emergency fund. Even minor home repairs, like fixing a cracked driveway, can carry steep price tags. A home emergency fund (separate from your general savings) can help prevent you from dealing with fines, like Martinez. Realtor.com recommends putting aside 1–3% of your home’s value for unexpected repairs.

    Ask for a fine reduction or hardship adjustment. Many municipalities offer hardship waivers or payment plans. You can often negotiate fines, especially if you can show financial hardship or prove the issue was out of your control (e.g., a delayed insurance payout). Ask in writing and reference any delays due to insurance or contractor availability.

    Know your rights. Florida, like many states, protects homeowners from “excessive fines” under its state constitution. If fines feel disproportionate, especially compared to the violation, consult a legal aid group or nonprofit like the Institute for Justice.

    While most homeowners won’t face six-figure fines like Sandy Martinez, the financial consequences of even “minor” code violations can be devastating if ignored. Staying informed, communicating early, and having a financial safety net can help you avoid falling into a costly trap.

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