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USA Update

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Drivers are told to completely ignore new unpaid traffic fine warning – clue in the text should be a sign

DRIVERS are being told to ignore a traffic fine warning that’s been sent to numerous phones across a US state.

A text message that warns motorists of an apparently unpaid traffic fine has been reported as a scam that motorists shouldn’t act upon.

Hand retrieving a parking ticket from a car windshield.
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Numerous driver are being told to ignore a traffic fine warning that’s been sent to phones across a US state[/caption]
Worried young woman looking at her smartphone.
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Authorities say these messages are fake and advises recipients to delete them[/caption]

According to FOX13Memphis, the fake alert reads: “Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket.”

And the message goes on to say that if a payment is not made by August 1, 2025, the recipient could have their vehicle registration suspended.

However, road users in Tennessee, where the message has swept across the state, are being reminded that legitimate agencies do not send threatening texts about unpaid fines or revoke registrations for unpaid parking tickets.

The Tennessee Department of Revenue has clarified that these messages are fake and advises recipients to delete them and report them as junk.

A message posted on the Department of Revenue’s social media accounts Tuesday, July 29, said: “This text message is a scam.

“You cannot get your vehicle registration revoked for an unpaid parking ticket.”

Similar scams have occurred before, including one in June 2025 where messages pretended to come from the Department of Motor Vehicles with similar threats.

Authorities also recommend avoiding clicking on links in such texts, not responding to them, and only using verified contact details for any official queries.

This comes as a car owner trying to sell his vintage set of wheels was nearly scammed out of it by several fraudsters he met online.

A recent report revealed Matt Neff was forced to fight off three scammers posing as buyers for his classic 1948 Packard.

Neff’s ad for his vintage red car drew instant attention the moment it was posted online.

“As soon as the ad went live, I got an immediate response,” Neff told ABC affiliate WCPO.

After the ad was posted, Neff was approached by seedy buyers.

The first buyer eagerly approached Neff and offered to send a check to his home.

“He said I am extremely busy; I will send you a check, wait till the check clears, and we will arrange transportation,” Neff said.

When Neff received the check, however, it was for more than the asking price.

The scammer told the Packard owner to send the excess amount to a shipping company.

“I said I am not going to spend any money until it clears your bank,” Neff said.

“And sure enough, 10 days later, it came back as a counterfeit check.”

After he avoided that tactic, two other fraudsters messaged him using less apparent schemes.

How to avoid a contractor scam

Tips to avoid being scammed into a driveway, sidewalk, or walkway job:

Just because someone shows up at your door wearing a reflective vest, a hard hat, and work boots does not mean they come from a reputable contracting company.

A scammer may tell you they could do a driveway, walkway, or sidewalk repaving for much cheaper than the previous contractor told you, appealing to homeowners looking to save thousands on home repairs.

Before writing a check or paying cash for what seems like an offer that’s too good to be true, here are some tips to ensure it’s not a scam.

  1. Get three quotes from three different companies to see the variation in pricing.
  2. Never pay in advance. A reputable company will not take money upfront, as prices vary by the job, and complications can raise the price.
  3. Ask for a contractor license. In many states, if you ask to see their license, contractors are legally obligated to present it.
  4. Avoid door-to-door salesmen who say they’re in the area doing work. Many times, they’ll take a deposit and never show.
  5. Avoid paying by cashier’s check, cash, or via wire transfer. Paying with a credit card is the easiest way to dispute it if it is a scam.
  6. Keep communication in writing, such as email or text, to help protect you if things need to be handled legally and a police report is needed.
  7. Don’t feel pressured to make an immediate decision. Sometimes scammers will create a sense of urgency, but it’s important to take a step back and do some research.

Read more here.

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Prince Harry ‘condemns’ Sentebale charity boss for using Diana’s memory in ‘poorest possible taste’ after ‘bullying’ row

PRINCE Harry has accused the Sentebale boss of acting in the “poorest taste” after he walked away from the charity, sources claim.

The Duke slammed Dr Sophie Chanduaka after she referenced his late mother Princess Diana in the wake of their bitter “bullying” row.

Prince Harry, Alix Lebec, and Dr. Sophie Chandauka speaking at a panel discussion.
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The Duke of Sussex accused Sentebale chief Dr Sophie Chanduaka of acting in the ‘poorest taste’[/caption]
Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE speaking at a panel discussion.
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The Charity Commission said chances were missed to settle differences at Sentebale[/caption]
Princess Diana sitting on steps with Prince Harry on her lap.
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The Duke is said to be ‘devastated’ that his late mother was referenced by Chandauka[/caption]

Harry, 40, set up the charity in 2006 in memory of Diana for young people and kids living with HIV and Aids.

But he stepped down from his position – alongside co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho – in March following a public fall out with Dr Chandauka.

Yesterday, it was revealed that the prince was walking away from the charity after a damning report accused him of “harming” its reputation.

The investigation rebuked “all parties”, but judged that Dr Chandauka could remain in place as chair of trustees with the current board.

In response, she hailed the ruling and pointed to the co-founders’ mothers, who inspired the creation of the organisation.

She said: “Despite the recent turbulence, we will always be inspired by the vision of our founders, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso, who established Sentebale in memory of their precious mothers, Princess Diana and Queen ‘Mamohato.

The Duke is said to be “devastated” that his late mother was referenced by Chandauka, who he has accused of destroying his “life’s work”.

Speaking to The Telegraph, a source close to Harry said: “For Sophie Chandauka to have invoked Princess Diana’s memory in her own defence was in the poorest possible taste.

“She’s got what she wants, which is control of the charity, but unfortunately the people who suffer most out of all of this… are the children of Lesotho and Botswana.

“The most devastating thing for Prince Harry in all of this is that his life’s work and all the money he was able to pump into Lesotho and Botswana through his work has gone down in flames.”

The co-founders publicly fell out with Dr Chandauka, a Zimbabwe-born lawyer, who was selected to be chair of the trustees last year.

The bitter feud appeared to be triggered by the move to transfer the youth charity’s fundraising operation to Africa.

Board of trustees chair Dr Chandauka said the “toxicity” of Harry’s brand since his move to live in the US had seen a drop in donors. 

The decision had caused several key figures to quit the organisation.

The Charity Commission said chances were missed to settle differences at Sentebale.

A probe was launched after Harry and Prince Seeiso stood down in support of trustees.

Dr Chandauka slammed the “adverse media campaign” launched by those who resigned, which she said had “caused incalculable damage” to the charity.

She said: “The unexpected adverse media campaign that was launched by those who resigned in March has caused incalculable damage.

“We are emerging not just grateful to have survived, but stronger: more focused, better governed, boldly ambitious and with our dignity intact.

“To all who believe in our mission: please walk with us as Sentebale recovers, renews, and rises to meet the hopes and expectations of the next generation.”

David Holdsworth, chief executive of the Charity Commission, said the public feud risked overshadowing Sentebale’s achievements. 

He added: “Passion for a cause is the bedrock of volunteering and charity, delivering positive impact for millions of people here at home and abroad every day.

“However, in the rare cases when things go wrong, it is often because that very passion has become a weakness rather than a strength.

“Sentebale’s problems played out in the public eye, enabling a damaging dispute to harm the charity’s reputation.

“It risks overshadowing its many achievements, and jeopardising the charity’s ability to deliver for the very beneficiaries it was created to serve.”

The regulator, which cannot investigate individual allegations of bullying, found no evidence of systemic bullying or harassment, including misogyny or misogynoir at the charity.

But it acknowledged “the strong perception of ill treatment” felt by some involved. 

The Duke of Sussex has been approached for comment.

Prince Seeiso of Lesotho and Prince Harry smiling together outdoors.
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Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho both quit the charity they set up in 2006[/caption]
Prince Harry leaving the Royal Courts of Justice.
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The Charity Commission launched a probe when Harry and Prince Seeiso stood down[/caption]

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Diver rescued after surviving for 5 DAYS in underwater cave.. and had incredible first request after being saved

A DIVER was miraculously rescued after five days trapped in an underwater cave.

Wang, from Hunan province in central China, was pulled from the water seemingly unscathed but had one very specific request.

Rescue workers assisting a diver near a body of water.
Wang was rescued after five days underwater
Two divers in a flooded cave.
A rescue team said they heard what sounded like knocks on the cave’s surface

Buried nine metres below the surface, the 40-year-old diving enthusiast lived off a diet of raw fish before he was astonishingly rescued.

He survived thanks to an air pocket that allowed him to breathe in the water.

His first words to his rescuers were: “Do you have a cigarette?”

He reportedly went missing just five minutes after plunging into the river with a friend, where he became trapped in the water’s complex network of caves.

Cops immediately launched a search operation with the help of Xiangxi Shuguans Rescue team and special police forces, South China Morning Post reports.

A specialist team carried out two initial deep dives when they heard what sounded like someone knocking on the rocks.

They switched off the boat engines to get a better listen but the sound didn’t return.

On their third dive, they spotted Wang – whose oxygen supply had dropped to just four per cent at this point – who lunged into the water waving his flashlight.

Tian Yanglin, the captain of the rescue team, said “that moment was his last chance.”

Wang didn’t sustain any injuries and even walked to the ambulance.

His story has sparked widespread discussion online with many calling his rescue a “miracle”.

One person said: “Nine metres underwater, pitch black, survived for five days. Unbelievable. A true miracle. His mind did not collapse. What incredible willpower!”

“To survive five days and still be in good condition, he is not just lucky, he is superhuman,” said another.

While a third asked: “It must have been pitch black in that cave. I am really wondering, how did he manage to catch fish?”

This isn’t the first time a diver has been rescued alive from perilous waters.

In 2016, a terrified scuba diver was found after being lost at sea for more than 14 hours in shark-infested waters.

Incredible footage showed the 68-year-old being tossed around in the waves off the coast of Australia before he is winched to safety.

He had been exploring wreck of the SS Yongala alone in the Coral Sea before he failed to return.

The diver was eventually found by a search helicopter off the coast of Queensland more than 30 miles away from the shipwreck.

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Amazon is selling a ‘bamboo’ privacy fence for $45.99 – it’s perfect for shading your backyard and protecting privacy

IF you’re tired of your neighbors peeking over the fence, Amazon’s got a budget-friendly fix that’s got shoppers obsessed.

A natural-looking privacy fence is now trending and you can snap it up for just $45.99.

Natural Reed Fencing Rolls: Privacy Bamboo Fence 3/4/5/6ft High Roll Reed Screen, Decorative Bamboo Fencing for Outdoor Balcony Patio Garden Backyard,with Cable Zip Ties(Coffee, 3.3x16.4ft),
Amazon is selling a Natural Reed Fencing Roll
Amazon
Natural Reed Fencing Rolls: Privacy Bamboo Fence 3/4/5/6ft High Roll Reed Screen, Decorative Bamboo Fencing for Outdoor Balcony Patio Garden Backyard,with Cable Zip Ties(Coffee, 3.3x16.4ft),
The fence retails for $45.99
Amazon

The Natural Reed Fencing Roll is being praised by buyers for its sleek look, simple setup, and eco-friendly feel.

The bamboo-style screen gives your outdoor space instant tropical vibes, while also doubling as a shield from nosy passers-by.

It comes in different heights, from 3ft to 6ft, and measures 3.3ft x 16.4ft per roll, making it a perfect option for patios, balconies, backyards or even just hiding that ugly side of your shed.

But it’s not just about looks.

This reed fence packs serious function too. It blocks more than 85% of sunlight and visibility while still letting in fresh air and light, so you stay cool, shaded, and blissfully unseen.

And unlike some privacy screens that look plasticky or industrial, this one is made from pure natural material.

The reeds are heat-treated and tightly woven with cotton thread to help it last and it’s naturally waterproof, meaning it won’t fall apart after one stormy weekend.

One Amazon buyer who picked up multiple rolls was thrilled: “I have all three units now.

“They’ve all been installed and look great.

“Honestly, they feel more durable than the bamboo fencing I bought eight years ago at Home Depot. These came with their own zip ties and worked perfectly for privacy and shade.”

Another raved: “It’s a nice, organic and simple-to-install privacy barrier. Just what I needed!”

You can cut the fence to size or adjust the length by knotting the rope, so it’s easy to tailor for your space without the need for professional help.

The manufacturer recommends wearing gloves during installation to avoid burrs, since it’s a natural material.

Shoppers say the roll is so versatile, it’s even being used indoors for decor or as a rustic backdrop for events.

And while some vinyl privacy panels, like Home Depot’s Linden White Vinyl Fence, can run well over $250 per panel with installation, this Amazon option is a fraction of the price and just as effective.

If you’re craving backyard zen on a budget, this is the no-drama, all-style way to get it.

Whether you’re sunbathing in peace, hosting guests, or just blocking out the world, this bamboo-style screen is your new secret weapon.

But with reviews stacking up and summer still going strong, you may want to grab yours before stock runs out, because privacy this pretty never lasts long.

Know your rights

Homeowners have several rights when it comes to fencing rights:

  • How high can you build a fence:
    • In many residential areas, front yard fences may be limited to 3-4 feet in height, while backyard fences could be allowed up to 6-8 feet.
    • To find out the specific restrictions for your property, consult your local government’s planning or building department.
    • Consult a professional surveyor to help determine your property lines accurately
  • What to do if your neighbor is building a fence too high:
    • First, try talking with your neighbor about the issue
    • Familiarize yourself with local fence height restrictions
    • If talking doesn’t work, you can report your neighbor’s violation to your local planning or building department
  • Who should pay for a fencing repair
    • The responsibility for maintenance and repairs may depend on local laws and previous agreements
    • If the fence is located directly on the property line and is considered a shared or “boundary fence,” the responsibilities may be different
    • Higher a property lawyer to help with any other issues

[Source: Legal Rights]

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Trader Joe’s fans urge chain to bring back beloved household staple – it could be gone indefinitely

TRADER Joe’s shoppers are begging the chain to bring back a cult-favorite household staple and it’s causing serious panic online.

The missing item is the Trader Joe’s Organic Super Bread, a hearty, seed-studded loaf that fans say was a must-have in their weekly grocery haul.

Shoreview, Minnesota. Trader Joe's, an American chain of grocery stores does not have sales, coupons, loyalty programs or membership cards. It has good prices and the best products available for its customers. (Photo by: Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Trader Joe fans are devastated as popular product may have been discontinued
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Trader Joe's fans urge chain to bring back beloved household staple : https://www.whatsgoodattraderjoes.com/2024/03/trader-joes-organic-super-bread.html#google_vignette
Fans have plead with the retailer to bring back its Super Bread
@whatsgoodattraderjoes

One desperate fan took to Facebook to plead: “Please bring back Superbread!”

Packed with organic grains like wheat, rye, rolled oats and millet, the beloved loaf was known for its dense, chewy texture and nutritional boost, thanks to its high fiber and protein content.

But now it’s vanished from shelves across the country and loyal customers aren’t handling it well.

“I feel your pain,” one Reddit user replied to a shopper searching for the bread.

“It’s such a bummer.”

Another said: “Last two times I was at my Trader Joe’s I couldn’t find the Super Bread and one of the employees did a search for me.

“It appears they’re temporarily unable to order more – not clear why, but such a bummer.”

One user speculated the bread is on a production delay, with no clear time frame for its return.

And while that may leave a tiny crumb of hope, regulars know the chain has a long-standing habit of pulling products off the shelves permanently.

Trader Joe’s often rotates items in and out of stores to make room for seasonal offerings and new product launches.

But shoppers who rely on staples like Super Bread are devastated.

One frustrated shopper posted: “Please don’t discontinue it.”

The growing outcry over Super Bread comes just days after another TJ’s fan went viral for trying to track down her favorite snack — the Triple Ginger Pretzels, which were discontinued over a year ago.

“They were some of the most amazing, addictive treats I’ve ever had!” she wrote in the Trader Joe’s Discontinued Facebook group.

“I’m hoping someone has a leftover stash.”

She’s not alone.

Sausage Drama

It’s not the only discontinued product that has left Trader Joe’s fans devastated.

One foodie took to social media to share their upset after claiming the chain stopped selling their Turkey Summer Sausage.

Taking to the Facebook group TraderJoe’s Discontinued:(, they wrote: “Was informed that Trader Joe’s lost their supplier. 

“Does anyone have a suitable replacement brand??? 

“This was my spring and summer go to for cold meals!!”

Many fellow shoppers were distraught to hear the news and took to the comments to share their dismay.

One said: “Noooooooooo!”

Another added: “Oh man!!!I loved this stuff!!”

While some discontinued items never make a comeback, others do resurface, especially if enough customers rally behind them.

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