Something you purchased has been recalled. What does that mean?
What happens if something you purchase is recalled? Is it voluntary or mandatory? And what does it mean for you?
Madewell is recalling about 5,900 women’s sweaters after federal safety officials said the clothing did not meet mandatory flammability standards and posed a risk of burns that could lead to serious injury or death.
The recall, announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on July 16, affects two types of Madewell-branded sweaters sold at Madewell and TJ Maxx stores nationwide and online at Madewell.com.
According to the CPSC, the recalled sweaters violate mandatory federal standards for clothing fibers. The agency said the clothing poses a risk of severe burns and death if it catches fire.
Madewell received one report of a sweater catching fire. No injuries were reported.
Further recalls: Target recalls 211,000 children’s sandals. See affected products
Which Madewell sweaters are included in the recall?
The recall includes the Madewell Double V-Neck Pullover Sweater (Style #NT611) and V-Neck Cardigan Sweater (Style #NT612).
The sweaters were sold with and without buttons, and were available in light blue and cream colors. It featured long sleeves and a V-neck, and was available in women’s sizes from XS to L.
Consumers can identify recalled products by looking for neck labels that display the “Madewell” brand name and size and sewn side seam labels marked Style #NT611 or Style #NT612 and “HO24.”
The sweaters were sold from December 2024 to October 2025 for $138 to $148.
What should consumers do?
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled sweaters and contact Madewell for a full refund using their original payment method or store credit.
To receive a refund, customers must cut the sweater in half and discard it, email a photo of the discarded garment to 24/7@madewell.com, and then dispose of it.
Consumers with questions can contact Madewell toll-free at 866-544-1937 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET daily or visit the company’s recall page for additional information.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or X @athompsonUSAT.
Something you purchased has been recalled. What does that mean?
What happens if something you purchase is recalled? Is it voluntary or mandatory? And what does it mean for you?
Panasonic is recalling approximately 11,500 electronic toasters sold on its website, Costco’s online shop, Amazon, and other online retailers nationwide.
A defective toaster power cord can pose an electric shock or fire hazard, according to a notice published July 16 on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website.
Here’s what you need to know about the recall and what to do if you have a toaster at home.
Defective power cord creates a risk of electric shock or fire
On July 16th, Panasonic announced a recall for the electric toaster oven model number “NB-G200”. These were on sale from October 2024 to April 2026 and cost around $170 each.
The recall affects approximately 11,480 units sold in the United States through Panasonic’s website, as well as Costco’s online shop, Amazon, and other online retailers across the United States. An additional 2,184 units were sold in Canada.
According to the notice, the problem is caused by the protective fiberglass sleeve not properly covering the power cord and providing insufficient insulation.
What should I do if I have an NB-G200 electric toaster oven?
There have been no reports of fires or injuries, but the recall notice states there have been four reports from consumers of circuit breakers or outlets tripping, and one report of the product not working.
If you own a toaster oven, please stop using it immediately and contact Panasonic for a full refund.
Panasonic can be reached at 888-943-2391 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET or by email at Panasonic6895@sedgwick.com. For more information, please visit Panasonic’s official website.
Drew Pittock covers trending news from around the country for USA TODAY. He can be reached at DPittock@usatodayco.com.
USA TODAY’s Mike Snyder demonstrated how to properly clean and store leafy greens.
Salad lovers champion lettuce as a staple of a healthy diet. But what do you do when munching on leafy greens becomes a food safety risk due to an outbreak of cyclosporiasis, which can cause painful diarrhea?
A healthy diet includes fruits and vegetables, but unfortunately, fresh foods can become contaminated with bacteria such as E. coli and the parasite Cyclospora.
As crops grow, they can become contaminated by toxic substances in the water or soil, or by the feces of infected people. Even after produce is harvested, many people handle it, increasing the risk of contamination, the Food and Drug Administration says.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the parasite (official name Cyclospora cayetanensis) is an oocyst, an organism that lives on or inside another organism and can be excreted in feces (poo) and contaminate water used for irrigation and cleaning. It can then be transmitted to others through the food chain.
Washing lettuce reduces the risk, but removing cyclospora from produce is not easy, said Dr. Tyler Evans, founder of the Wellness Equity Alliance and former New York City chief medical officer.
“Washing produce takes the load off and is worth doing,” Evans told USA TODAY. “However, Cyclospora lives on a tough, sticky shell that clings to the crevices of leafy vegetables and the fine hairs of berries, and the CDC is clear that routine chemical disinfection and disinfection will not kill it.”
Shredded iceberg lettuce is the only produce currently identified as likely to be contaminated during the current outbreak. Although you can’t eliminate all risks, washing lettuce properly will make for a healthier salad. This should be standard food safety practice.
“Good hand hygiene and safe food preparation practices are always important,” said Dr. Shira Mada, an infectious disease epidemiologist at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Studies. “Otherwise, there is no reason to broadly avoid lettuce and other raw vegetables.”
In many foods, heating to at least 158 degrees will kill parasites, but “for produce that is eaten raw, we need to avoid products that have been specifically identified by public health officials during the outbreak, rather than assuming that they are safe if washed,” he said.
More news: Also, is it possible to get “explosive” diarrhea? doctors say this
The correct way to wash lettuce
Kelsey Holloman, manager of the Foodborne Disease Epidemiology Program at the Virginia Department of Health, said leafy greens and produce should always be washed under running water before cutting, cooking or eating. “I advise people to always remain vigilant.” Here are her tips on how best to wash lettuce.
Wash your hands, as well as your cooking utensils and cutting boards. “Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before and after preparing meals and after using the bathroom or changing diapers,” Holloman said. Knives and cutting boards must be clean and disinfected.
Discard the outer leaves of the lettuce. Discard the outer leaves and any torn or bruised leaves, along with the head of iceberg lettuce or romaine.
Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly. Gently rub the surface of each leaf with your hands to remove sand and dirt. For example, iceberg lettuce is more tightly packed than romaine or Boston lettuce, so instead of washing each leaf individually, you can cut it in half and soak the center under running water for a few minutes.
Dry the lettuce. Even if you use a salad spinner to dry your lettuce, you should dry it with a clean cloth or paper towel afterwards.
Even if the lettuce you buy says it’s pre-washed, “you still need to rinse it with clean water when you get home,” Holloman says.
Should I eat lettuce?
Michigan is the state with the most reported cases of cyclosporiasis. USA TODAY contacted the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, which says residents should “purchase whole lettuce rather than pre-washed and bagged lettuce or pre-mixed salad kits.”
Dr. Susan Chen, associate dean for public health practice at Tulane University’s Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, said the current risk of strongyloid contamination is low because produce from local farmers markets is typically not shipped nationally.
However, if you’re pregnant, you may want to avoid fresh leafy greens, herbs, and berries for a while, Chen says.
“In the meantime, make sure all produce is well-cooked or has peels that can be peeled after washing well first (oranges, mangoes, melons, bananas, etc.).”
Mike Snyder is a national trends news reporter for USA TODAY. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, and X, and email him at:mike snyder & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com.
Costco samples boost sales and shoppers’ serotonin
Costco’s free samples draw crowds and members love the snacks, but stations can block aisles and cause chaos.
After nearly two months of testing in select markets, Costco has officially introduced its new chicken tenders menu option to food courts across the country.
The meal, which costs $6.99 per basket, comes with five strips and a dipping sauce, which many influencers have compared to Chick-fil-A’s honey mustard.
Here’s what you need to know about Costco’s new chicken tender meals and what the internet is saying about them.
even more generous amount
Costco has officially rolled out chicken tender meals nationwide after testing them in select markets starting in May.
According to a video circulating online, the meal is a whopping 1,640 calories, comes with five tenders and a large dipping sauce, and costs $6.99.
Tattoos and everything else: Move beyond the Trader Joe’s stand. Costco has the most loyal fans in retail.
Costco is famous for its hearty pizzas and hot dogs, and this bid seems to live up to that reputation. In a video posted to Instagram, influencer account Costco Guide said it was “literally” the size of her head.
A large portion of the dipping sauce that social media users are comparing to Chick-fil-A’s is served with the tenders.
Costco Guide says it reminds them of Chick-fil-A’s honey barbecue sauce. Sushi Man, aka Fotogami, envisioned a unique recipe that combines three parts Chick-fil-A honey mustard and one part Chick-fil-A’s eponymous sauce.
From “bomb.com” to “Rare Costco L”
Social media posts from Costco Guide and Fotogami have shown a very mixed reaction, with some saying they can’t wait to try the bid and others claiming it doesn’t live up to the hype.
“Ugh, I want some!!!” one user wrote. “Oh my! I might actually like it,” another person wrote.
One person called the bid “bomb.com,” while another speculated that Costco was targeting “protein-sensitive gym buddies” and admitted it “looks delicious.”
How Costco attracts shoppers: Come for the hot dogs, stay for the gold bars
Still, not everyone was impressed.
“Unfortunately, this is a miss. Too dry, too salty…rare Costco L,” said one person. “I ate it today. The first one was very tasty, but the rest were stringy and one was very thick and unpleasant,” said another, adding, “Nothing compares to the (hot) ones.”
Others thought their experience might be a one-off until they started reading other people’s comments. “I thought the stuff at Costco was salty and dry, but looking at the comments it seems like it’s the same everywhere,” they said.
Drew Pittock covers trending news from around the country for USA TODAY. He can be reached at DPittock@usatodayco.com.
USA TODAY’s Fernando Cervantes takes a look at the states with the most Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots.
The Mega Millions jackpot has increased ahead of the Friday, July 17th drawing, and now stands at $672 million, with a cash value of $293.3 million.
If someone gets lucky and wins the jackpot on Friday, they have two options. Take home one-time cash or get paid instantly, then receive an annual check that’s 5% larger than the previous year.
Although no one hit the jackpot on Tuesday, the three of them had a fun night. Winners in Florida, New Jersey and Georgia took home $2 million, $3 million and $4 million, respectively. The last time someone won a Mega Millions jackpot was more than three months ago, when an Ohio man took home $60 million on St. Patrick’s Day.
With Friday’s Mega Millions drawing just hours away, here’s what you need to know.
What are the Mega Millions winning numbers for July 17, 2026?
USA TODAY will publish the winning numbers for Friday’s Mega Millions lottery after the drawing at 11pm ET.
When is the next Mega Millions drawing?
The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 21st at 11:00 PM ET.
States with the most lottery winners: What you need to know.
Top 10 Mega Millions Jackpots
August 8, 2023, $1.602 billion in Florida.
$1.537 billion in South Carolina on October 23, 2018
January 1, 2023, $1.348 billion in Maine
July 29, 2022, $1.337 billion in Illinois
December 27, 2024, $1.269 billion in California
$1.128 billion in New Jersey on March 26, 2024
January 22, 2021, $1.05 billion in Michigan
$983 million in Georgia on November 14, 2025
$810 million in Texas on September 10, 2024
March 30, 2012, $656 million in Illinois, Kansas, and Maryland
What is Mega Millions?
Mega Millions is a lottery that is played in 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Each ticket costs $5, and players can choose six numbers from two different number pools: five different numbers from 1 to 70 (white balls) and one number from 1 to 24 (gold mega ball), or choose Easy Pick/Quick Pick.
If you match all six winning numbers in the drawing, you win the jackpot. If there are multiple jackpot winners, the jackpot prize will be shared.
How to play Mega Millions
To play Mega Millions, you must purchase a ticket. This can be done at several locations, including local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores.
In some states, you can purchase Mega Millions tickets online.
Once you have your ticket, you have to choose six numbers. Five of them are white balls numbered from 1 to 70. Gold Mega Balls range from 1 to 24.
If you’re feeling particularly unlucky or don’t want to go through the hassle of picking, you can request a “quick pick” or “easy pick.” When you use these options, your computer randomly generates numbers.
Mega Millions tickets have built-in multipliers that increase your non-jackpot prize by 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 times. Previously, players had to pay an extra dollar to add a “Megaplier”.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact us at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow us at X @fern_cerv_.
There are more than 900 wildfires in Canada, 120 of which are currently burning out of control. Smoke from the fires has been suffocating American cities and towns from Minnesota to New York for days.
How to stay safe in wildfire smoke
Wildfire smoke can travel far, so check your air quality, protect your home, and be prepared to leave immediately if fire danger increases.
President Donald Trump is threatening to impose tariffs on Canada over record levels of dangerous air flowing into the United States from hundreds of wildfires in the north.
“The United States is being needlessly invaded by filthy, polluted, unhealthy air, and the quality of it is dangerous and completely unacceptable!” Trump wrote in a July 17 post on Truth Social.
The president said he would call Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and ask him what he plans to do about the smoke problem caused by a lack of proper forest management in Canada.
“This is willful negligence, which occurs every year, and costs the United States billions of dollars. The cost of this pollution must necessarily be added to the tariffs Canada currently pays,” Trump wrote.
The Canadian government says there are more than 900 wildfires in Canada, 120 of which are burning out of control, and more than a dozen near the border with Washington state, Minnesota, Michigan and Maine. Ontario has been particularly hard hit, with widespread evacuations and many homes threatened.
Smoke from the fires has choked American cities and towns from Minnesota to New York for days, causing sometimes record-breaking air quality.
Carney’s press office did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment on the tariff threat and accusations that the country’s forests were being mismanaged. But Carney told reporters on July 16 that “climate change is everyone’s responsibility, including America.”
Mr. Carney made the comments when asked about a letter four Michigan Republicans wrote to Mr. Carney about the smoke issue.
“Our hospitals are once again treating children, dialysis patients, and the elderly for the effects of smoke that did not originate near them,” the July 15 letter said. “This is the third year in a row that we have had to write to Canadian authorities about a crisis that Canada has the means to prevent but chose not to.”
“Nothing has changed except that our patience has reached its limit,” the letter said. “We are done accepting apologies in lieu of action. If Canada doesn’t manage its forests to prevent wildfires, the United States will look elsewhere and act on its own to protect its people.”
Lawmakers said this could include “considering direct involvement in cross-border fuel reduction and firefighting capabilities” and “reconsidering the benefit of the doubts this relationship continues to bring about on an issue where American lungs are paying the price for Canada’s inaction year after year.”
Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, has indicated he plans to introduce a bill to the House of Representatives on Monday that would declare a state of emergency, impose sanctions on the Canadian government and cancel visas over smoke.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford told reporters on July 17, before President Trump’s tariff threat, that Ontario has repeatedly assisted with U.S. wildfires.
“I truly believe that Americans are good neighbors,” he said. “If you see a politician out there complaining, maybe instead of complaining, send support, send help, because we’ve done the exact same thing to our American friends, and that’s what you should do.”
On Friday, the Canadian government announced on its wildfire page that “heavy smoke” is expected to continue for the next few days.
“At the time of writing, diplomatic engagement is being coordinated to discuss the wildfire situation and the impact of wildfire smoke on each state of the United States,” the government said.
Amanda Lee Myers is a senior crime reporter covering the death penalty, cold cases and breaking news for USA TODAY. Follow her on X at @amandaleeusat.
See the most talked about moments in the Senate about Chuck Schumer
Sen. Chuck Schumer is accused of releasing gas in the Senate chamber, but the source of the sound is unknown.
Amy Schumer tried to pardon her cousin, once removed from office, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who was accused of pouring gas into the Senate chamber earlier this week.
Schumer came to the 75-year-old Senate minority leader’s defense on Tuesday, July 14, after being called out by Republican colleagues over Toot’s dilemma. In a video obtained by USA TODAY, Schumer can be heard allegedly farting while talking to President Donald Trump about the Iran conflict.
Neither Schumer nor his office have publicly acknowledged the incident. USA TODAY reached out to Schumer’s office for comment on July 17.
Here’s what you need to know about the stinking Senate situation.
#hotmickgosotter
Amy Schumer took to social media on July 16 to explain that she was the one who farted during Chuck Schumer’s speech criticizing the Trump administration the day before.
“I was the one who (expletive) on the Senate floor,” Amy Schumer wrote on her Instagram Story, adding the hashtags “Hot Mic Just Got Hotter.”
It is unclear whether Chuck Schumer was actually leaking gas, or whether it was just a microphone issue or some other anomaly.
Are they common? Amy Schumer and Kathy Griffin talk about colonoscopy complications
Burchett: “I think he just went to Taco Bell.”
Amy Schumer’s comments came after Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) criticized his Democratic colleague during an interview with TMZ DC.
“I think he was just going to Taco Bell,” Burchett said, referring to the ongoing outbreak of cysticercosis, a parasite that causes “explosive” diarrhea, that has hit the United States in recent weeks.
Taco Bell found itself at the center of the problem and began removing food from some stores as health officials traced the origins of the disease.
“Weekend with toilet”: Reality TV star says she has cystoscoperosis
bipartisan toilet support
The Tennessee Republican extended an olive branch to Schumer, saying, “Chuck, it’s okay, baby, you’re human. If you need me, I’m here.”
Burchett also acknowledged his age and what it means for his digestive system. “I’m 61 years old. If I walk by the bathroom, it’s just a coincidence,” he said.
Drew Pittock covers trending news from around the country for USA TODAY. He can be reached at DPittock@usatodayco.com.
Are AI-run stores the future of retail? USA TODAY finds out.
San Francisco retail store Andon Market is managed by an AI bot named Luna. USA TODAY spoke with Luna. See what it said.
Discount retailer Five Below will soon open nine new stores in eight states, according to a “Coming Soon” page on the company’s website.
The chain, which describes itself as a “trend-driven, ultimate value” brand, opened its 2,000th U.S. store in La Grange, Georgia on July 17, with a grand opening celebration where the first 200 customers received a free neon squishy dumpling collection.
“Reaching 2,000 stores is an incredible milestone for our brand, which is dedicated to being a destination for children and children in all of us,” CEO Winnie Park said in a July 9 news release. “We know our unique retail concept is poised for great growth with thousands of new stores across the United States.”
Founded in 2002, Five Below says most items cost between $1 and $5. The chain has items across multiple sections, including sports, room, style, party, and candy.
Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming Five Below opening.
More news: Lowe’s will open a new store in the state in early August. Please check the location
Where will Five Below open new stores?
According to Five Below’s “Coming Soon” page, these stores are expected to open soon. A grand opening date was not listed on the website, but USA TODAY reached out to the company for more information. Five Below did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request.
1408 W Hunt Hwy., Santan Valley, AZ
8447 Alondra Blvd., Paramount, California
2005 Veterans Blvd., A3, Dublin, GA
113 Northshore Blvd., Suite 600, Slidell, LA
1246 Perry Ave., Unit C, Big Rapids, Michigan
1163 N Court St., Medina, OH
251A N Washington Hwy., Ashland, VA
240 W Commonwealth Blvd., Martinsville, VA
27339 Covington Way SE., B-110, Covington, Washington
Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@usatoday.com.
Trump didn’t know much about the game before this year’s tournament, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada, but was captivated by some of the great plays, including Argentina star Lionel Messi’s winning pass.
Argentina defeats England to advance to FIFA World Cup finals
Argentina defeated England 2-1 and booked their ticket to the FIFA World Cup finals. Seth Bartelny and Megan Hall have advanced through the semi-finals and will look to face Spain.
President Donald Trump’s family is getting into the soccer spirit of the FIFA World Cup.
He told a FIFA reception in New York that his children are big soccer fans and that many of his family will be attending the championship game between Argentina and Spain on July 19.
“Who wouldn’t go there?” Trump asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino at an event at Trump Tower on July 17. “If we had 10 million more tickets, we would have sold all the tickets.”
Trump didn’t know much about soccer until the tournament was held in the United States, Mexico and Canada. However, she said that her “very tall son” Barron enjoys sports. When the president asked how he would react if a fast player from the final four teams in the tournament (Argentina, England, France and Spain) outmaneuvered him, his son said that would not happen.
“He said, ‘Dad, I’m a very good ball handler,'” Trump said. “I said, ‘But Baron, what if he’s faster?’ ‘Dad, he never ignores me,’ I said, ‘but when he does.’ He didn’t want to answer that question. ”
Trump added: “He has great skills.”
Trump said first lady Melania Trump plans to watch the game with her father, Victor Gnyahus, who was a soccer player in his youth.
“He didn’t make it to the big leagues yet, but he’s a great athlete,” President Trump said.
President Trump said he became obsessed with sports after watching Argentina star Lionel Messi play, including his precise pass that scored the winning goal against England.
“He was well protected,” Trump said. “Then he moved to the right and his opponent just stood there. He had plenty of time to kick. I’d say he was within a quarter of an inch of perfection. That’s when the game was over. It was great.”
Spectators from 200 countries watched 104 games in 16 cities. Trump asked Infantino if the World Cup was bigger than the Olympics.
“It’s much bigger,” Infantino said to applause.
Trump didn’t want to jinx anything. But he said 50 federal agencies have provided security, expedited visas and awarded $1.2 billion in transportation grants.
“Together, we pulled it off perfectly,” President Trump said, with Infantino standing next to him.
As for the championship game, Trump declined to predict a winner.
“It’s going to be something really special,” he said.
Why Bryson DeChambeau was given a two-stroke penalty at the British Open
Bryson DeChambeau received a two-stroke penalty at the British Open. Here’s what happened and why the verdict was handed down.
The Open
Bryson DeChambeau’s meteoric rise up the 2026 British Open Championship leaderboard came to an abrupt halt when tournament officials handed him a two-stroke penalty for a rules violation during the second round, R&A officials confirmed on Friday, July 17.
DeChambeau, playing alongside Scottie Scheffler at Royal Birkdale, had just completed what appeared to be his second straight comeback round and had moved into second place behind leader Lucas Herbert when the post-round drama began to unfold. Cameras showed DeChambeau emerging from the scoring tent and having a lively discussion with the rules official. According to a report from USA Sports Broadcasting, the cause was a disagreement over how DeChambeau should approach his second shot on the fifth hole.
“The rules guy said they improved my lie,” DeChambeau reportedly told a colleague as he left the scoring tent.
There was speculation that DeChambeau, who fell to three strokes behind the leader, would withdraw, but while disappointed with the ruling, DeChambeau suggested on social media that this was not the case.
“This gets me motivated. For the weekend. Let’s give it a try,” he posted.
Open Championship: Jon Rahm throws club in second round but avoids penalty
DeChambeau’s wayward drive on the fifth hole landed on a long fescue grass, and replays showed him walking and stepping on the long grass, potentially improving his backswing situation. R&A rules officer Charlie Mullan said DeChambeau and the rules officer eventually returned to the scene of the No. 5 shot in a golf cart to “discuss his actions.”
“It just came to me as the day unfolded,” Malan explained on the British Open Championship broadcast.
A visibly shaken DeChambeau then appeared to plead an appeal from Fescue, which caused his only bogey of the round. DeChambeau’s manager, Brett Falkoff, told Golfweek that DeChambeau was not informed of the possible rule violation until after the round had ended and DeChambeau requested to return to the fifth hole.
“They feel he’s not paying enough attention around sensitive areas and not improving his swing path,” Falkoff said.
“Your guess is as good as mine,” Falkoff said when asked if DeChambeau would play in Saturday’s third round at the British Open following Friday’s controversial result.
However, DeChambeau indicated on social media that he intends to play.
“Obviously disappointed in the verdict,” he posted. “I don’t agree with it, but it’s the reality. Hearing this gets me motivated. For the weekend. Let’s do it.”
DeChambeau recorded a triple-bogey 7 on No. 5 on the scorecard and was 5 under, three strokes behind the leader, making him 5 under for the tournament.
R&A umpire Grant Moir said DeChambeau received the two-stroke penalty even though he had no intention of improving his lie or backswing, and explained the rule violation in a statement to reporters following the controversial ruling.
Moir said the rule in question “restricts what a player can do to improve the protected conditions that affect the stroke, including the area of the player’s intended swing. … I want to emphasize that this applies even when the action is accidental, as in Bryson’s case.”
Moir said DeChambeau’s prohibition in this case pertains to the part of the rule that says “no natural object growing or attached may be moved, bent or broken.” “A player is permitted to take a stance fairly by taking reasonable steps to reach the ball, and in some circumstances may take a stance if the condition affecting the stroke is improved. However, in doing so, the player must take the most innocuous course of action to deal with the particular situation and is not entitled to a normal stance or swing. This rule applies even when there is no intention to improve that area, as in Bryson’s case.”
If you’re behind on your taxes or dealing with an IRS collection notice, you may be considering professional help. Tax relief companies act as intermediaries, helping you prepare documents, communicate with the IRS, and apply for programs such as payment plans and settlements. But not all companies operate the same way.
In this Optima Tax Relief vs. Community Tax comparison, we’ll take a look at how these two companies approach tax resolution, what services they offer, and how to decide which one is right for your situation.
Community tax and Optima tax relief
Understanding how these companies work and how the IRS ultimately determines the outcome will help you make more informed decisions.
Optima Tax Relief: For complex and challenging IRS cases.
Optima Tax Relief was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in Santa Ana, California. The company works with individuals and small businesses who typically owe at least $10,000 in unpaid taxes and need help navigating IRS programs.
Our firm offers a wide range of services designed to help you understand your options and navigate the tax resolution process. These include:
Support for compromising offers
installment plan
Tax debt resolution strategies
Tax reporting and compliance support
Negotiation/settlement support
Lien, levy, and wage garnishment support
Audit representative
Optional identity theft protection with Optima Tax Shield. There are no additional costs for the free tier plan.
At Optima Tax Relief, we offer free consultations to help you understand what programs you qualify for before using our services. Like many tax resolution firms, their pricing varies depending on the complexity of the case and typically follows a tiered structure. You can expect to be charged investigation costs and possibly additional resolution costs.
The company is well known in the industry, with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot. Positive reviews often emphasize professionalism and communication, while some negative feedback focuses on pricing and process timelines.
Who is Optima Tax best suited for?
If you are facing a more complex IRS situation and prefer a larger company with an established resolution process, Optima Tax Relief may be right for you. The company is often a good choice for taxpayers dealing with large tax debts, aggressive collection efforts such as wage garnishments or bank levies, or unresolved IRS matters that span multiple years.
If you value additional features like continuous case management, a structured resolution process, and identity theft monitoring with Optima Tax Shield, Optima may be a stronger choice.
Services, costs and what you need to know: Read Optima Tax Relief review
Community Tax: For taxpayers who need to stay compliant
Community Tax was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The company focuses on assisting individuals and small business owners with tax obligations of $10,000 or more through IRS program and compliance services.
Typical services include:
Offer in preparation for compromise
Setting up an installment agreement
First time penalty reduction request
assist with unpaid taxes
Preparation of tax return
IRS audit agent
CTAX+ offers ongoing tax support services for $39 per month. This includes IRS problem prevention, taxpayer identity theft assistance, and tax preparation services.
Community taxes focus on both resolution and compliance. This means that in addition to dealing with existing tax debts, it can also help you file missing returns and stay current going forward.
During the initial investigation stage, community taxes typically charge $295 for individuals and $595 for businesses. During the resolution stage, prices may vary on a case-by-case basis depending on the complexity of your tax situation. It’s worth noting that we offer a 14-day money-back guarantee on initial research fees, and that we offer our services in both English and Spanish.
The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot. Some positive reviews mention the company’s high level of professionalism and continuous communication throughout the process. On the other hand, some negative reviews highlight the company’s failure to help customers get the IRS tax relief they need.
Who is best suited for community tax?
If your tax issues extend beyond your outstanding balance, community tax may be a better option. The company focuses on tax compliance and is ideal for taxpayers with unfiled returns, those who need ongoing filing assistance, or those who want continued tax support after resolving an IRS debt through a CTAX+ membership.
Bilingual service, transparent survey pricing, and a money-back guarantee may also appeal to first-time tax relief customers who want more clarity on pricing up front.
Is this tax relief company right for you? Read community tax reviews
Community Tax and Optima Tax Relief: Key Differences
At first glance, Optima Tax Relief and Community Tax offer many of the same IRS resolution services. The biggest difference lies not so much in what you can do, but in how you position your services.
While Optima tends to focus on full-service representation for taxpayers facing more complex IRS collection issues, Community Tax focuses on helping clients stay compliant through tax preparation, ongoing filing support, and post-case preventive services.
Features
local tax
optima tax reduction
better
Taxpayers who need both tax relief and ongoing compliance assistance
Taxpayers with complex IRS collections who want full-service representation
Features
CTAX+’s ongoing tax support, bilingual service, and transparent research pricing
Large national office with structured case management and Optima Tax Shield
Survey fee
Starting at $295 ($595 for business)
custom quote
ongoing membership
CTAX+ available
Optima Tax Shield available
Money back guarantee
14-day investigation guarantee
No equivalent warranty advertised
Spanish language support
yes
Not prominently advertised
How tax relief company pricing works
When comparing tax relief companies, pricing is often one of the most important factors, but also the most opaque.
Most tax relief companies have a two-tier pricing structure:
Investigation stage: The company will look at your IRS records, income, assets, and tax history to determine which programs apply to you.
resolution stage: Our firm will prepare documents, submit applications, and communicate with the IRS on your behalf.
Costs may vary depending on the complexity of your case. For example, preparing an offer in compromise that requires detailed financial disclosure may be more expensive than setting up a simple payment plan. It is important to understand that no company can guarantee results. The IRS evaluates each case based on your income, assets, and ability to pay.
When should you work with a tax saving company?
The decision to hire a professional often depends on the complexity of your situation, not just the amount you owe.
You may want to consider working with a tax relief company if:
A large amount of unpaid taxes are in arrears
Facing an IRS levy, lien, or wage garnishment
There are unfiled tax returns for multiple years.
I need help organizing my financial documents
you are facing serious financial difficulties
While the potential relief amount may be important in some cases, factors such as complexity, time, and comfort with working with the IRS often play a large role in the decision.
conclusion
Optima Tax Relief and Community Tax both help taxpayers deal with IRS tax debt and collection issues, but they address slightly different needs. If you handle more complex IRS cases and prefer a larger firm with a structured, full-service approach, Optima Tax Relief may be a better choice. If you need help filing missing tax returns and achieving compliance, need ongoing tax support after litigation is resolved, or value transparent upfront pricing, Community Tax may be right for you.
Before choosing either provider, compare consultations and request a breakdown of all fees in writing. Also, remember that ultimately it is the IRS, not the tax relief company, that determines your eligibility for tax relief programs.
Community Tax and Optima Tax Relief Frequently Asked Questions
Is community tax better than Optima tax relief?
Neither company is universally better. If you have a complex IRS case, aggressive collections, or prefer a larger firm with a structured, full-service approach, Optima Tax Relief is the way to go. If you need help keeping up with your taxes, value up-front pricing transparency, or need continued tax filing and compliance support even after your IRS issue is resolved, choose Community Tax.
Can tax-exempt companies reduce their IRS liability?
Only the IRS can approve reductions through programs such as offers in compromise. The Company will assist you in completing and submitting your application, but cannot guarantee the outcome.
Do I need a tax relief company to work with the IRS?
no. Hiring a tax relief company is optional. These companies provide support, organization, and communication assistance, but do not provide access to special programs that individuals cannot use on their own. The IRS provides tools and resources to help you understand your options and determine if you qualify, including the Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool.
Are tax relief companies legal?
Many are legitimate businesses, but quality and prices vary. Checking reviews, credentials, and transparency can help you evaluate your options.
Is there a class action lawsuit against Optima Tax Relief?
yes. Optima Tax Relief has been named in a class action lawsuit involving a class action settlement involving certain customers. Separately, several law firms are investigating possible class action lawsuits related to the company’s 2025 data breach. As with many large state-owned companies, litigation does not necessarily establish liability or wrongdoing. If you’re considering working with Optima Tax Relief, we recommend reviewing recent customer feedback, understanding the company’s fees, and asking questions about included services before signing a contract.
Will tax relief companies negatively impact your credit score?
no. Hiring a tax relief company will not directly impact your credit score, as tax debts and IRS payment plans are typically not reported to the three major credit bureaus. However, if you stop paying or miss payments on other debts while working on your tax resolution strategy, your credit score may be affected. Keep in mind that tax relief companies cannot remove accurate negative information from your credit report, and the IRS ultimately determines whether you qualify for a tax relief program.
Opening, renamed Donald J. Trump International Airport
Donald J. Trump International Airport has officially replaced Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida.
United Airlines is denying reports that it will allow passengers to change destinations for free if they object to flying into Florida’s newly renamed President Donald J. Trump International Airport.
Aviation industry blog Live And Let’s Fly published what is described as an internal memo to reservation agents telling customers who don’t want to fly to the airport, formerly known as Palm Beach International Airport, that they can offer alternative flights to places like Fort Lauderdale or Miami.
United told USA TODAY the message was poorly worded and inaccurate. United Airlines customers can change their tickets without any fees for a variety of reasons. However, (their) policy does not allow changes based on airport name or three-letter code.
The statement leaves room for agents to accommodate travelers under United’s existing change policy, but the airline said that objections to airport names or codes are not in themselves formal grounds for a fee-free change.
Excerpts from the memo published by Live And Let’s Fly said that if a customer did not wish to fly to the renamed airport, agents were instructed to “use their authority to suggest acceptable alternatives.”
United Airlines is offering an unrelated “air quality flexibility” waiver to passengers flying to any of the affected airports on the list through July 18.
USA TODAY Cars’ Keith Laing examines the best features of the 2026 Toyota bZ XLE electric vehicle, focusing on its performance, interior technology and cargo space.
California is offering a new $3,500 instant rebate to first-time electric vehicle buyers.
Thirteen major automakers, including Ford, GM, and Tesla, have announced their participation in the program.
The state-level rebate follows the end of the $7,500 federal tax credit under the Trump administration.
Thirteen major automakers have confirmed plans to participate in California’s new $3,500 instant rebate program for new EV buyers, as new electric vehicle prices average nearly $55,000 and the federal government ends the $7,500 tax credit for plug-in vehicles.
California Governor Gavin Newsom (Democratic) announced in a July 16 news release that 13 major automakers have partnered with the Golden State to offer instant rebates to Californians who purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles for the first time, pledging to participate in a new EV rebate program.
Newsom pointed out that the state’s new EV rebate program was introduced after the federal government, at the direction of President Donald Trump, eliminated the common $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles last year.
“While President Trump hands over the keys to the clean car industry to China, we are showing the world that California is open for business,” Newsom said in a statement. “We are committed to lowering costs for working families and preserving American manufacturing jobs. The future is built in America.”
California’s new EV discounts come from $135 million in state funds included in the recently announced budget deal reached between Newsom and state legislative leaders and later signed into law by the governor. Additional funding for the EV rebate program will come from grants funded by automakers, California officials said.
Which automakers participate in California’s “MyFirstEV” program?
Newsom’s office said the following automakers are participating in the state’s new EV incentive program:
ford
general motors
honda
hyundai
come
clear
mitsubishi
nissan
Rivian
Subaru
tesla
toyota
volvo
Why is California offering an EV tax rebate?
California’s plan comes nearly two years after President Donald Trump won the 2024 election, when Newsom promised to give consumers an electric vehicle tax credit if Trump followed through on his campaign promise by eliminating the common $7,500 federal tax credit. President Trump passed a bill in Congress that would end the federal tax credit on September 30, 2025.
California has the highest percentage of car buyers choosing electric vehicles.
According to the Washington, D.C.-based Automotive Innovation Alliance, EVs and hybrids accounted for 17.5% of new light vehicle registrations in California in the first quarter of 2026, across most major automakers, the latest data released by the organization. California was the only state with a market share above 20% in 2025.
Automakers have lamented the loss of federal incentives for electric vehicles, and some have cut back on plans to make future electric models in light of changes in federal support for the technology.
California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez said in an exclusive interview with USA TODAY in January that the state is stepping up to offer at least some rebates to domestic EV buyers as “the rest of the global market moves toward zero-emission vehicles,” even as federal aid levels have receded under the Trump administration.
EV advocates praise California for stepping in to fill at least some of the violations.
“When Congress repealed federal EV financing, the real threat to auto jobs was an air pocket of demand,” the American EV Jobs Alliance, an advocacy group that works with automakers to push U.S. and state legislatures to adopt EV-friendly policies, said in a statement.
“Weak orders will lead to revisions to production forecasts, which will lead to reassessment of factory investments, which will lead to job cuts,” the group continued in a statement. “California just filled a gap in the market and got automakers to fund half of that.”
Who is eligible for California’s EV rebate?
California’s EV rebate is limited to state residents who have not previously purchased an electric vehicle. The discount is expected to start being offered to car buyers by the end of the summer.
The rebates are available to car buyers of all income levels, but new EVs must cost less than $50,000, according to the law Newsom signed authorizing the rebates. According to the law, the price limit for used EVs is $25,000.
However, there is a big pitfall. California law says there are no price limits on rebates offered on cars made by “California-based zero-emissions vehicle companies,” a big boon for EV makers like Rivian and Lucid. Tesla, the largest electric car maker in the United States, got its start in California, but recently moved its headquarters to Austin, Texas.
How much can I buy a used EV?
Under California’s budget agreement, used EVs are also eligible for a rebate, but buyers will receive only $1,750.
Under the old federal tax credit, used EVs could receive up to $4,000 in tax credits. The used EV tax credit was first added in 2022 by former President Joe Biden’s administration. Previously, only new EVs were eligible for the tax credit.
Can I purchase an EV from outside of California and receive a rebate?
Previous EV rebates in California were limited to residents of the state, and this discount is also limited to residents of the state.
EV shoppers in other states may find solace in the fact that states often copy California’s auto emissions regulations, and some may decide to copy the state’s plan to offer rebates to shoppers. Seventeen states have adopted at least part of California’s clean car regulations in recent years, according to the California Air Resources Board.
The U.S. EV Jobs Alliance said it plans to encourage as many states as possible to follow California’s lead in reinstating EV discounts for first-time EV buyers.
“Thirteen companies have gone on record saying that U.S. EV demand is worth their capital,” the group said. “This is the most useful fact we have for the 2027 legislative session. We are looking to implement this model in other states.”
Lindsey Graham’s sister, Darling Graham Nordone, becomes a senator
Sen. Chuck Grassley swore in South Carolina Sen. pro tempore Darline Graham Nordone, sister of Sen. Lindsey Graham.
President Donald Trump said he has asked Darin Graham, the sister of the late U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, to run against her brother for the U.S. Senate seat in South Carolina’s special Republican primary on Aug. 11.
Graham was sworn in on July 14 to serve out the remainder of his brother’s term in the Senate, who passed away last week after a sudden illness. South Carolina’s governor nominated her as his successor three days after Graham’s death on July 11.
In a post on Truth Social on July 17, Trump said he met with Graham in the Oval Office and asked him to run in the special primary.
“We have known each other for a long time. She is a wonderful person and a true American patriot. Lindsey was one of the greatest people and senators I have ever known, and his sister shares a deep love for our country and South Carolina,” he wrote.
“I hope that’s what Darling does. No one could better honor the legacy of her beloved brother Lindsay,” Trump said in the post. “Darling comes from a really great family and has been a winner all her life, and if she accepts, I fully and completely support her in the South Carolina Senate special election. She will never let you down. Run, darling, run!”
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Ms. Graham as the state’s first female senator on July 13, following the sudden death of her 71-year-old brother from a ruptured aorta.
Several names have been floated in the Republican special primary to replace Graham, including Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, who ran unsuccessfully for governor earlier this year, Republican U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, and U.S. Rep. Russell Frey, who represents South Carolina’s 7th Congressional District. Former Congressman Trey Gowdy and current Congressman William Timmons are also mentioned.
Although Graham’s current career involves supporting people with disabilities, he has no political experience. But she said she would rely on her brother’s colleagues and staff to get the job done.
“It’s a great honor to be able to complete some of his important work,” she said at a July 13 press conference. “I am committed to working hard in the coming months to support the President and continue my brother’s efforts on behalf of the people of South Carolina and the United States.”
Swatch closes stores after Audemars Piguet Royal Pops launch
Swatch has closed some stores after crowds flocked to the launch of Audemars Piguet’s Royal Pops pocket watch.
Swatch is aiming for the moon with its latest drop.
The Swiss watchmaker is collaborating with Omega on a limited edition Moonswatch made from Omega’s patented 18K Moonshine gold alloy to commemorate Apollo 11’s historic moon landing on July 21, 1969.
“Some moments are so special that they remain shining for generations,” Swatch said in a news release. “That was the case with the first moon landing in 1969.”
The watch, which includes a dial, crown and pushers, weighs 11 grams and is made from Omega’s 18K Moonshine Gold. Swatch says the gold used in the watch dates back to the same era and was sourced from old Omega spare parts.
“We melted the gold in our own foundry to create Omega’s 18K Moonshine Gold,” Swatch said, adding, “The use of gold in this luxury chronograph is more than just an aesthetic choice.” It pays homage to Omega’s “legendary 1969 gold Speedmaster, created to commemorate the historic success of the Apollo 11 mission.” The 11-gram gold component is also a “playful nod to the Apollo 11 mission number,” Swatch said.
According to Swatch, the watch retails for $570, which reflects the gold price on July 21, 1969, not the current gold price, when 11 grams of 18K gold cost $11 in 1969.
Features of Moonswatch
The watch’s notable features include:
Chronograph with limited edition number
Matte black bioceramic case
Black rubber strap with Velcro closure and bioceramic loop
Recessed counter with black hands and Arabic numerals
Black bioceramic bezel with gold-colored tachymeter scale protected by anti-scratch coating
The battery cover features a golden moon design and displays the date of Apollo 11’s moon landing and footprints representing Apollo 11’s first steps on the Sea of Tranquility.
Logo, typography and gold hallmark used in 1969
How to get Swatch MoonSwatch
According to a press release, MoonSwatch cannot be purchased directly in stores. To purchase this model, customers must fill out an Electronic Sample Watch Application (ESTA). It is similar to what U.S. travelers must complete and consists of 32 questions online. The application form will be available on the Swatch website from 15:32 CEST on July 16 and must be completed and submitted by 23:59 CET on July 21 next year.
Successful applicants will receive follow-up instructions on how to complete their purchase and pick up their watch at the Swatch Store.
According to Swatch, only 1,969 people will receive ESTA approval to purchase the limited edition product.
Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at sshafiq@usatodayco.com and follow X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.
President Trump said DHS had discovered 278,000 noncitizen voters. Experts say it’s not that fast
China and Russia deny President Trump’s election interference claims
Both China and Russia have denied President Donald Trump’s allegations of meddling in the 2020 election.
Homeland Security Secretary Mark Wayne Mullin announced on July 17 that states that do not comply with the Trump administration’s new election security order and consent to the use of federal databases to identify noncitizen voters will not receive federal election reimbursement.
If the Department of Homeland Security discovers that a noncitizen has voted, uncooperative state officials could face fines and jail time, Mullin added.
“We’re saying we need to make the machines secure and we need to purge the voter restoration list,” Mullin told reporters. “If states choose not to participate, we will let you know. We will work to ensure those states prioritize investigating who voted in their states and holding election officials accountable.”
Marin’s threat came a day after President Donald Trump announced in a prime-time White House address that a “stunning investigation” by the Department of Homeland Security found that 278,000 noncitizens were registered to vote in federal elections. Mullin said DHS used public information to discover noncitizens who were registered to vote in California, Pennsylvania, Nevada and New Jersey.
Federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting in U.S. elections. At the same time, a 2026 Bipartisan Policy Center report says there is no evidence that non-citizen votes were important enough to influence the outcome of the election. States regularly review their voter rolls for accuracy, and sporadic cases of non-referendum votes are investigated and prosecuted.
Election experts have pushed back against the Trump administration, saying its methodology is flawed and relies on commercial data with many discrepancies rather than state voter files.
“Commercial data is conceivably impossible to compare to general voter files because of the common names and the lack of personally identifiable information such as driver’s license numbers and Social Security numbers,” said David Becker, a former Justice Department attorney who heads the nonprofit Center for Election Innovation and Research. “In some cases, there may not even be a date of birth.”
“Nearly all of them are actually citizens, and I predict that states will, in fact, end up violating federal law by removing them from their voter lists at the request of the federal government.”
No refund
The impact of the Marine threat may not be as great as some expect. He did not say which federal aid would be withheld. And his agency did not respond to requests for further information.
“This is a laughable threat,” Becker said. “This threat is ineffective for any state because no significant amount of federal funding has been allocated. No state is counting on significant federal funding for elections.”
The federal government provides some grants and other funds for election administration, but that assistance is inconsistent. When funds are available, they are most often provided through the Federal Election Assistance Commission. President Trump fired two of the three commissioners last week, leaving the commission without the quorum needed to make decisions ahead of the midterm elections.
Ben Hovland, a former commissioner who was fired by President Trump, said the commission distributed a total of $55 million in Help America Vote Act grants in fiscal year 2025. The funds were distributed among all 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia. Last year’s grants totaled $15 million, Hovland said.
“We saw the government spending that money on lining reflecting pools,” he said.
Hovland pointed to research from the MIT Election Data Science Lab that showed state and local governments spend as much as $6 billion to administer elections.
In most states, voting costs are primarily borne by counties and local governments, even though state and federal elections are eligible for voting in addition to local elections. Most states and local governments pay for elections through taxes.
Colorado Secretary of State Jenna Griswold said most federal election-related grants go to local law enforcement agencies, not to state or local election administration. It’s not money that the nation depends on, she says. Mr. Griswold added that Mr. Marin’s threats could soon be challenged in court if he tried to withhold the money.
data limit
The DHS finding that 278,000 noncitizens are registered to vote in federal elections comes from public and commercial sources, largely because many states refuse to share their voter rolls with the federal government.
The Justice Department has requested voter rolls from all 50 states for the past two years. At least 17 Republican-led states have responded. But officials in many other states, led by both Republicans and Democrats, refused, citing privacy laws that prohibit the sharing of personal information and a lack of federal authority over the list.
The Justice Department sued 30 states and the District of Columbia for the unredacted list. All 16 resolved lawsuits were lost. Many people have since been appealed.
save system
Marin said DHS also found 28,000 noncitizens and 400,000 deaths in the rolls of 23 states that were using the Trump administration’s newly modified Systematic Alien Verification System for Eligibility, a clearinghouse that combines citizenship data and information from the Social Security Administration.
In late June, a federal judge blocked the Trump administration’s use of the new system, saying it was providing intentionally inaccurate data to states that are currently “actively” and “haphazardly” removing so-called noncitizens from their voter rolls.
“The federal government knowingly trampled on the privacy rights of Americans by threatening their sacred right to vote,” U.S. District Judge Sparkle Skunanan wrote in a 75-page ruling. “The court cannot sit by and watch that happen.”
more: A journey to save democracy? These judges say it’s worth a try
Marin noted that the decision was made by an “activist judge.”
“Any judge or God-fearing person who loves this country would want to make sure our elections are secure,” he said.
In July, a federal judge in Florida ordered Mr. Marin’s office to continue allowing some states to use the system, setting off a dispute that likely will take the fight to an appeals court.
An Ohio man claims in a federal lawsuit that he developed cysticercosis after eating three meals at a Taco Bell restaurant in the southwest suburbs of Cleveland.
According to a lawsuit filed July 16 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, North Olmsted resident Mohamed R. Ayyad visited Taco Bell restaurants multiple times and ate multiple menu items before becoming ill several days later.
According to the complaint, Ayyad visited the North Olmsted Taco Bell twice on June 14 and June 21.
Ayyad began experiencing early symptoms on June 23, which is consistent with the incubation period for cyclosporosis, according to the complaint. The next day he started vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms include headache, chills, weakness, and insomnia.
According to the complaint, Ayyad was not feeling well until July 2 and had trouble keeping food down after that day.
He went to urgent care at the Cleveland Clinic in North Olmsted and was told to take an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication. A few days later, the man provided a stool sample that tested positive for cyclosporosis, and it was confirmed that he had cyclosporosis, according to the complaint.
more: Taco Bell Lettuce, Cases, and Other Cyclosporosis Outbreak Updates
After the diagnosis was confirmed, he was prescribed the antibiotic Bactrim, which he continued to take at the time the lawsuit was filed on July 16. He continued to experience nausea and persistent headaches, and missed about two weeks from work due to the infection, according to the lawsuit.
Many people who contract food poisoning continue to suffer for several weeks. Ayyad is represented by William Marler, a lawyer who specializes in food safety cases.
The lawsuit names Pacific Bells LLC, which owned and operated the North Olmsted Taco Bell locations, as a defendant. Pacific Bells did not immediately respond to a voice message and email from USA TODAY.
On July 16, Taco Bell announced it would remove lettuce from an anonymous supplier in some states.
Taco Bell said in a statement: “While no formal recommendations have been issued, we believe public health is a shared responsibility of our restaurants, our suppliers, and our authorities, and we are proud that we have consistently acted quickly and aggressively to protect our customers.” “Taco Bell is taking precautions and we encourage all associated restaurants, retailers and food service providers to do the same.”
There are major concerns when purchasing an older home or one that hasn’t been thoroughly inspected. What happens if something that was already falling apart breaks down? Most home warranties won’t address problems that existed before the coverage began. However, a small number of providers will intervene if they cannot detect a problem.
Finding these providers requires some research, as the meaning of “undetectable” varies from contract to contract. So we compared how major home warranty companies define and handle pre-existing conditions, weighing the coverage terms, costs, and the finer points behind those words.
After careful consideration, we have determined the three best home warranty providers for your existing conditions in 2026.
Why trust USA TODAY?
Home warranty contracts are very detailed, and the promise of a warranty tends to break down in the smallest details. That’s why USA TODAY scours service contracts, gets real quotes, and speaks with customer service teams to see how each provider handles claims not just on paper but in practice.
We scored every company on this list using an in-house methodology that covered cost, responsiveness, customer satisfaction, and more. The team behind these rankings has over 25 years of combined experience in the personal finance and home services space and holds all providers to the same standards. “Would you recommend it to your own family?”
Top 3 Best Home Warranties for Your Existing Situation
American Home Shield: Best Overall
Cinch Home Services: Ideal for long-term workmanship guarantees
2-10 Home Buyer Guarantee: Great for discounts and membership benefits
American Home Shield: Best Overall
Best plan for existing conditions: shield platinum
Fee: $50-100 per month
Service fee: $100 or $125
Upper limit of coverage: $5,000 per system. $4,000 per appliance
American Home Shield goes further than most other companies, taking the top spot in coverage for pre-existing conditions. Its ShieldPlatinum plan covers breakdowns due to rust and corrosion, and won’t deny your claim just because you don’t have maintenance records (which many providers require before paying).
However, known issues, physical damage, and improper connections are still excluded from coverage, no matter how comprehensive your plan. There is also a 30-day waiting period before filing your first claim.
Strong Points:
There are two service fee options to balance your monthly premiums
Generous total annual coverage limit of $50,000
Provides real-time video chat access with home repair experts
Cons:
Quality of customer service varies by region
Prices are higher than budget-level plans
I can’t choose my own vendor
Cinch Home Services: Ideal for long-term workmanship guarantees
Shop Home Warranty Plan
Best plan for existing conditions: complete home
Fee: $30.99 – $44.99 per month
Service fee: $100, $125, or $150
Upper limit of coverage: $1,500 per system. $2,000 per appliance
In addition to covering unknown pre-existing conditions, Cinch backs repairs with a 180-day workmanship warranty. If the same problem occurs again during that period, you will not have to pay a second service fee to fix the problem.
However, there are limits to that generosity. Service fees here reach $150 per visit, and coverage limits are lower than elsewhere on this list. Even if you need to completely replace a major system, you could end up paying a lot of money out of pocket.
Strong Points:
In business for over 45 years
Covers up to 37 home systems and appliances
Provides 24/7 insurance claims support
Cons:
Not available in Alaska or Hawaii
No affordable service fee options
Lower total limit per aggregation period ($10,000)
2-10 Home Buyer Guarantee: Great for discounts and membership benefits
buy home warranty
Best plan for existing conditions: vertex
Fee: $39.99 – $59.99 per month
Service fee: $65 to $100
Upper limit of coverage: $5,000 per system. $2,000 per appliance
2-10 Home Buyer Guarantee covers unknown pre-existing conditions and its members enjoy ongoing benefits. For example, GE and Whirlpool appliances can be purchased at up to 65% off retail prices. Alternatively, if your broken appliance isn’t worth repairing, you can instead receive a $100 refund to purchase a replacement.
However, a score of 2 to 10 may improve customer satisfaction. Trustpilot has a rating of 1.4 out of 5, and homeowners frequently report slow claims processing and long hold times when they call.
Strong Points:
If your claim is found to be ineligible, we will refund your service fee
Offers six add-ons to enhance your coverage, including guest units, pools, and spa facilities
Backed by Frontdoor Brands, the largest home warranty company
Cons:
There is no plan that includes only home appliances.
You must call to cancel your home warranty plan
Cannot work with preferred technician
Honorable mention
Liberty Home Guard and Select Home Warranty were not included on the list because neither covers pre-existing conditions, known or unknown. But even if that coverage isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s still worth considering both.
appreciate liberty home security guard‘s long list of add-ons includes everything from pool coverage to pest control. Additionally, it comes with a 365-day workmanship guarantee and no home inspection is required for enrollment.
Select home warranty Plans start at around $44 per month and include free roof leak coverage every step of the way, making it easy to manage your costs. However, the payment limits are lower than average, with the maximum price for an HVAC system being $3,000.
What is the difference between known and unknown pre-existing conditions?
A known pre-existing condition is one that you or your medical examiner could have discovered before reporting, even if no one mentioned it. Unknown pre-existing conditions have no visible signs and will not be detected by routine tests, no matter how careful you are.
Matt Brown, a luxury real estate advisor at Naples, Fla.-based home brokerage firm William Laveis, offers an example of each:
Known conditions: During the explanation, the seller stated that the water heater would “take forever” to repair. Then the technician discovers corrosion on the bottom or hears the tank struggling. It’s enough to call it already exists, whether it’s written somewhere or not. “If the buyer takes over the home with a warranty and files a claim three weeks later, it’s easier for the company to defend the rejection,” he says.
Unknown status: Your HVAC system is cooling properly and passing normal inspections, but either the refrigerant is slowly leaking or the compressor is starting to fail internally. We didn’t see anything about it the day the reports started, and regular tests wouldn’t have discovered it.
Why do home warranties often exclude pre-existing conditions?
“This exclusion exists because the price of the warranty covers sudden failures in the future due to normal wear and tear, not problems that were already present when the watch was started,” Brown explains. “Every contract I’ve seen discloses a pre-existing condition, and those that advertise covering it almost always only mean the undetectable kind.”
The difficult question is who decides what counts as “existing.” Brown points out that a call typically comes down to one technician’s diagnosis when filing a claim. If its technicians point out signs of long-term wear, corrosion, or previous improper repairs, the company will classify the claim as pre-existing and deny it.
That’s why Brown recommends taking two steps to file a lawsuit before a dispute arises:
Get a home inspection before coverage begins. “A clean, dated inspection report is the most powerful tool a homeowner can have,” Brown says. This records that the system is working properly from day one.
Leave traces of maintenance. Dated service receipts for your HVAC, water heater, and major appliances prove both that you took good care of them and that they were working on that date.
Finally, if you get rejected, don’t be afraid to argue. Request the engineer’s written report and the exact contract terms cited. Next, refute it with your own inspection and maintenance record. “Most denials are reversed or partially paid on appeal, but only for homeowners who push back with evidence,” Brown said.
FAQ
Is there a home warranty that covers pre-existing conditions?
Yes, some home warranty providers, such as American Home Shield and Cinch Home Services, offer warranties. unknown existing condition.
What are the typical home warranty exclusions?
Common home warranty exclusions include: known Pre-existing conditions, poor maintenance, damage to surfaces and structures such as roofs and foundations.
Do I need to cover an existing condition?
Yes, it is wise to work with a home warranty company that covers unknown pre-existing conditions. This is most important if you are purchasing an older home where hidden wear and tear is more common.
There are only a limited number of theaters showing “The Odyssey” in director Christopher Nolan’s preferred format. Here it is.
Anne Hathaway recalls the moment she was sleep deprived on set of ‘The Odyssey’
Anne Hathaway of ‘The Odyssey’ recalls the moment she lost sleep after blanking out lines on set, and how Christopher Nolan nailed it.
Seeing Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey in the director’s preferred format may require a quest as arduous as Odysseus’ journey home.
The Oscar-winning filmmaker’s film is best viewed in 70mm IMAX, allowing moviegoers to soak up the spectacular visuals of this epic film on a giant screen. However, participating in these reviews is easier said than done. There are only a limited number of theaters in the United States that can technically show movies in 70mm IMAX, and even if you can get to one, tickets can be difficult to get.
The movie hits theaters on July 17th, but here’s what you need to know about watching The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX and other premium formats available.
Join the watch party! Sign up to receive USA TODAY’s movie and TV recommendations in your inbox
What is 70mm IMAX?
In the simplest terms, 70mm IMAX is a way to see “The Odyssey” in both the highest resolution and largest screen possible.
The standard film strip is 35 mm, so 70 mm film is physically larger and provides a higher resolution image. Showing a movie in IMAX gives you a more enlarged image. So when you watch The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX, you see more frames than you would in a regular theater, and the image itself looks better.
Director Nolan recommends seeing “The Odyssey” in this way, but it can be difficult to secure a seat, especially on the first day of release. Tickets were in such high demand that 70mm IMAX screenings went on sale in July 2025, one year before the film’s release. New York City’s famous Lincoln Square IMAX theater is sold out even for 3 a.m. screenings.
What’s special about seeing The Odyssey in 70mm IMAX?
Director Nolan has previously shown his films in 70mm IMAX, including his latest film, “Oppenheimer.” But The Odyssey was a historic first for Nolan and for cinema in general, being the first narrative film to be shot entirely using IMAX cameras.
IMAX cameras are loud, bulky, and expensive, so movies typically shoot only selected sequences in IMAX. It was difficult to film the dialogue in this format because the camera noise was so loud. That’s why most movies have only used IMAX cameras for big action sequences.
However, for “The Odyssey,” Nolan solved this problem by placing the camera inside an enclosure called an “blimp” to reduce noise, allowing him to shoot both action and dialogue scenes for IMAX and maintain an extended frame throughout the film.
Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway reveal behind-the-scenes footage of ‘The Odyssey’
Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway reveal the funniest behind-the-scenes stories from The Odyssey, from forgotten lines to Christopher Nolan’s style.
video team entertainment
Where can I watch “The Odyssey” in 70mm IMAX?
According to IMAX, The Odyssey will be shown in 70mm IMAX at the following locations in the United States:
arizona
Harkins Arizona Mills & IMAX – Tempe
California
Regal Hacienda Crossing and IMAX – Dublin
TCL Chinese Theater IMAX – Hollywood
Regal Irvine Spectrum + IMAX – Irvine
Regal LA Live & IMAX – Los Angeles
Regal Edwards Ontario Palace & IMAX – Ontario
Esquire IMAX – Sacramento
AMC Metreon 16 & IMAX − San Francisco
Universal Cinema AMC at CityWalk Hollywood & IMAX − Universal City
colorado
Cinemark Carefree Circle & IMAX – Colorado Springs
Regal Colorado Center 9 & IMAX – Denver
florida
AutoNation IMAX, Museum of Discovery and Science – Fort Lauderdale
georgia
Georgia Regal Mall & IMAX − Buford
illinois
Cinemark Seven Bridges & IMAX – Woodridge
Indiana
IMAX Theater at Indiana State Museum – Indianapolis
Michigan
Celebration! Cinema Grand Rapids North & IMAX − Grand Rapids
nevada
Brenden Palms 14 & IMAX – Las Vegas
new york
AMC Lincoln Square 13 & IMAX − New York
Cinemark Tinseltown Rochester & IMAX – Rochester
pennsylvania
Regal UA King of Prussia & IMAX − King of Prussia
rhode island
Apple Cinema Providence Place & IMAX – Providence
tennessee
IMAX, Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga
Regal Opry Mills & IMAX – Nashville
texas
Cinemark Dallas & IMAX – Dallas
AMC Rivercenter 11 & IMAX − San Antonio
What other premium formats is The Odyssey available in?
If you can’t attend an IMAX 70mm screening, there are several other premium format options that are the next best thing.
One is standard IMAX, which offers larger screens and more enhanced images than regular theaters. According to the film’s official website, you won’t get the 70mm film experience, but the footage will “fill the entire field of view of the floor-to-ceiling screen.”
“The Odyssey” will also be available on non-IMAX 70mm film in some locations. This format gives you a high-resolution image, but it doesn’t give you the full portrait image available in IMAX.
Dolby Cinema is another option that provides a sharper image and is more widely available than 70mm. “What’s really interesting about Dolby Vision is that you see very high contrast ratios: incredible blacks, very high, peak whites, peak brightness,” Nolan explained to Letterboxd, noting that the nighttime storm scenes in the film look great in the format.
You can use this page on the movie’s website to see a helpful comparison of how “The Odyssey” images change based on format.
Taylor Farms will remove its iceberg lettuce from central Mexico after multiple reports citing anonymous sources linked Taylor Farms’ lettuce to cyclosporosis outbreaks in multiple states, the company said in a social media post.
“Based on information provided by the FDA yesterday, Taylor Farms de Mexico is voluntarily removing all iceberg lettuce from central Mexico,” Taylor Farms said in a statement Friday.
Taylor Farms brand salads and kits are not linked to this outbreak, the statement added.
USA TODAY has reached out to Taylor Farms, HHS, FDA and CDC for comment.
Lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants has been linked to an outbreak of a stomach-wrenching parasitic infection, federal health officials say, as thousands of people across the country contract cysticercosis.
An investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration and state health officials found that shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell stores in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia was linked to the outbreak.
The FDA’s follow-up investigation has identified a single supplier of the Mexican iceberg lettuce used in these Taco Bell locations, the agency announced late Thursday, July 16.
Taylor Farms lists “no active product recalls”
As of Friday, Taylor Farms’ website stated that “there are no active product recalls in place for Taylor Farms products,” but it was last updated on July 14.
“At Taylor Farms, the health and safety of our consumers is always our top priority,” the site added. “We are committed to delivering fresh, healthy products that meet the highest quality standards. In the unlikely event that a product does not meet these standards, we will take immediate action to remove the affected product from distribution and notify our customers.”
USA TODAY has reached out to Taylor Farms.
Food safety expert opinion
Many food safety experts who attended the 2026 Food Safety Latin America Summit, held July 15-16 in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, suspected Taylor Farms was involved in the outbreak.
“Of course, the story that came up was when someone was trying to leak that it was Taylor Farms, and the question was, is that lettuce from Mexico or Salinas,” food safety attorney Bill Mahler told USA TODAY.
“Basically, everyone here was like, ‘Taylor Farms is a big company and supplies Taco Bell.’ I was actually waiting for the public health experts to say that,” Marler said. Marler filed the lawsuit in federal court in the Northern District of Ohio on July 16 on behalf of a man who claims he contracted Cyclospora after eating at a Taco Bell in North Olmsted, Ohio, on June 14 and June 21.
This gastrointestinal disease, which can cause frequent watery diarrhea or explosive bowel movements, nausea, cramping, bloating and low-grade fever, affects people in 34 states.
