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    <title>Consumer News for WSLS 10</title>
    <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/</link>
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        <title>Consumer News for WSLS 10</title>
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    <description></description>
    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>WSLS 10</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2008</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2008-10-10T17:57:00-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>Oil prices plunge to 13&#45;month low</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/oil_prices_plunge_to_13_month_low/19119/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A barrel of oil hasn&#8217;t been this cheap since 2007, a rare silver lining for consumers amid a rapidly imploding financial landscape
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:24:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>August trade deficit falls to $59.1B</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/august_trade_deficit_falls_to_591b/19118/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Commerce Department said Friday the trade deficit declined by 3.5 percent in August to $59.1 billion, the smallest imbalance since June
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:23:01 EDT</pubDate>
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          <title>Wall Street ends week of drastic drops with a small one</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/wall_street_ends_week_of_drastic_drops_with_a_small_one/19115/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Dow Jones industrial average finished with a loss of 128 points at 8,451 and down 1,817 points on the week
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:19:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Caution for credit card holders</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/caution_for_credit_card_holders/19099/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In these tough economic times, it&#8217;s important to keep a close eye on your credit cards. Some companies are doubling or even tripling their interest rates.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 08:43:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Oil prices drop to 1&#45;year low</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/oil_prices_drop_to_1_year_low/19081/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Oil prices closed below $85 a barrel even ,after OPEC signaled it may try to slow crude&#8217;s downward spiral by cutting production.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 19:18:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>GM shares tumble 31 percent to 58&#45;year low</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gm_shares_tumble_31_percent_to_58_year_low/19070/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Standard &amp; Poor&#8217;s said the automaker&#8217;s credit could fall further into junk status due to the &#8220;rapidly weakening state&#8221; of the global automotive market.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 18:56:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gm_shares_tumble_31_percent_to_58_year_low/19070/#When:22:56:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>So&#45;so savings programs</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/so_so_savings_programs/19035/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Several bank programs promise they can help you save by making automatic deposits every time you use your debit or credit card. Do they?


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 07:08:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Rack Room Shoes recalls girls&#8217; sandals due to choking hazard</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/rack_room_shoes_recalls_girls_sandals_due_to_choking_hazard/19021/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The CPSC and Rack Room Shoes issues a voluntary recall of girls&#8217; sandals because of a choking hazard.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/rack_room_shoes_recalls_girls_sandals_due_to_choking_hazard/19021/#When:04:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Rack Room Shoes recalls 11,000 girls&#8217; sandals</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09006.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The ornamental flowers on the sandals can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:46:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09006.html#When:21:46:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Coby Electronics recalls rechargeable batteries sold with portable DVD/CD/MP3 players</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09004.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The rechargeable batteries can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consume
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09004.html#When:21:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Stocks go on roller coaster, before ending lower</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/stock_indices_rise_following_rate_cut/18915/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The half-point rate cut by the Fed was intended to help ease the stymied credit markets. Investors were clearly pleased by the cut, but wary because it won&#8217;t necessarily spur banks to resume a more normal lending pace to businesses and individuals.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 16:19:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/stock_indices_rise_following_rate_cut/18915/#When:20:19:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Retailers report weak September sales</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/retailers_report_weak_september_sales/18914/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
American shoppers went into hiding in September, sticking to buying the bare-bone essentials and leading many retailers to report dismal sales for the month as skittish consumers grappled with the global financial meltdown.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:40:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Gas prices drop 30 cents in two weeks</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gas_prices_drop_30_cents_in_two_weeks/18931/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
AAA Mid-Atlantic expects prices to fall further and faster
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:51:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gas_prices_drop_30_cents_in_two_weeks/18931/#When:17:51:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Study finds housing costs far outpace incomes</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/study_finds_housing_costs_far_outpace_incomes/18954/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The financial squeeze on Americans got tighter in the past decade as housing expenses&#8212;everything from mortgage payments and rent to utilities and insurance&#8212;outpaced the growth in income.

           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:36:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/study_finds_housing_costs_far_outpace_incomes/18954/#When:16:36:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Oil prices fall after surprise jump in U.S. crude supplies</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/oil_fall_after_surprise_jump_in_us_crude_supplies/18925/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Energy Information Administration said Wednesday that crude stocks rose by 8.1 million barrels to 302.6 million barrels last week. Analysts surveyed by energy research firm Platts had expected crude stocks to fall by 1 million barrels.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 10:57:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/oil_fall_after_surprise_jump_in_us_crude_supplies/18925/#When:14:57:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Energy Department warns of higher heating costs</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/energy_department_warns_of_higher_heating_costs/18865/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gas, propane and electricity for home heating will go up as well, but not as much, the government says
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 07:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/energy_department_warns_of_higher_heating_costs/18865/#When:11:00:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Neiman Marcus offers volume of extravagant gifts</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/neiman_marcus_offers_volume_of_extravagant_gifts/18864/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With stock markets sinking and fear of recession rising, what&#8217;s the affluent consumer to do? Neiman Marcus hopes a few of them will escape the grim headlines by splurging on diamonds, Dior and other diversions.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2008 05:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/neiman_marcus_offers_volume_of_extravagant_gifts/18864/#When:09:00:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Stocks plunge as Wall Street worries about financials</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/stocks_plunge_as_wall_street_worries_about_financials/18861/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
This latest plunge, came after Bank of America Corp. reported its third-quarter profits fell 68 percent. The market&#8217;s gloom was also fed by comments from Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke, who warned that the financial crisis could prolong the difficulty the economy is facing.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:16:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/stocks_plunge_as_wall_street_worries_about_financials/18861/#When:21:16:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Children&#8217;s necklaces, CD and MP3 players sold at Limited Too and Justice stores recalled</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09003.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Surface coatings on these products could contain excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:06:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml09/09003.html#When:21:06:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Economic Meltdown: Consumer borrowing falls for 1st time in 10+ years</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/economic_meltdown_consumer_borrowing_falls_for_1st_time_in_10_years/18838/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Households, battered by rising job layoffs and the decaying economy, cut back sharply on their use of credit.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:22:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/economic_meltdown_consumer_borrowing_falls_for_1st_time_in_10_years/18838/#When:19:22:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Economic Meltdown: Retirement accounts have lost $2 trillion</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/economic_meltdown_retirement_accounts_have_lost_2_trillion/18834/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A new AARP study found that because of the economic downturn, one in five workers 45 and older has stopped putting money into a 401(k), IRA or other retirement savings account during the past year, and nearly one in four has increased the number of hours he works.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:42:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/economic_meltdown_retirement_accounts_have_lost_2_trillion/18834/#When:18:42:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Fed minutes show policymakers saw balanced risks</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/fed_minutes_show_policymakers_saw_balanced_risks/18829/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Even in the midst of a severe meltdown on Wall Street, Federal Reserve officials at their September meeting believed the risks from weaker growth and higher inflation were roughly equal.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:05:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/fed_minutes_show_policymakers_saw_balanced_risks/18829/#When:18:05:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Fed chief warns more economic pain ahead</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/fed_chief_warns_more_economic_pain_ahead/18826/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Fed chief&#8217;s more gloomy assessment appeared to open the door wider to an interest rate cut on or before Oct. 28-29, the central bank&#8217;s next meeting, to brace the wobbly economy
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:59:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/fed_chief_warns_more_economic_pain_ahead/18826/#When:17:59:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Ford to offer system that limits teenage driving</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/ford_to_offer_system_that_limits_teenage_driving/18764/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The system will let parents program the teenager&#8217;s car key so they can drive no faster than 80 miles per hour. And it can be made to chime if the teenager exceeds 45, 55, or 65 miles per hour.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:27:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/ford_to_offer_system_that_limits_teenage_driving/18764/#When:14:27:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Bassinets recalled after two deaths</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/bassinets_recalled_after_two_deaths/18758/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced one of the largest child product safety alerts in years.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 06 Oct 2008 09:07:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/bassinets_recalled_after_two_deaths/18758/#When:13:07:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Economy sheds most jobs since 2003, more cuts seen</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/economy_sheds_most_jobs_since_2003_more_cuts_seen/18680/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Increasingly skittish employers dropped the ax even harder in September, chopping payrolls by 159,000 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 03 Oct 2008 18:21:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/economy_sheds_most_jobs_since_2003_more_cuts_seen/18680/#When:22:21:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Candy with chemical in Chinese milk found in Conn.</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/candy_with_chemical_in_chinese_milk_found_in_conn/18506/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A chemical blamed for sickening infants

in China has been found in candy on American shelves.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/candy_with_chemical_in_chinese_milk_found_in_conn/18506/#When:20:00:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>CarMax laying off 600 service associates</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/carmax_laying_off_600_service_associates/18498/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Auto retailer CarMax says it&#8217;s laying off

600 employees to cut costs amid declining car and truck sales.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:29:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/carmax_laying_off_600_service_associates/18498/#When:19:29:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Mineral makeup put to the test</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/mineral_makeup_put_to_the_test/18559/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The hot word in makeup products is &#8220;minerals.&#8221; And some of them claim to offer health benefits. Are they the real deal or just hype? Good Housekeeping digs out the truth about mineral makeup, in today&#8217;s Good Housekeeping Report.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:01:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/mineral_makeup_put_to_the_test/18559/#When:15:01:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Salem leads list of local gas price gouing complaints</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/salem_leads_list_of_local_gas_price_gouing_complaints/18374/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia Attorney General&#8217;s Office of Consumer Affairs says the orginial number of complaints has been cut in half
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:41:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/salem_leads_list_of_local_gas_price_gouing_complaints/18374/#When:16:41:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>210,000 GE toasters sold at Wal&#45;Mart recalled</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08413.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
About 210,000 General Electric toasters, manufactured in China and imported by Wal-Mart Stores Inc., because they can short circuit and pose a fire or shock hazard.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 11:31:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08413.html#When:15:31:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Appeals made to House Republicans to bring them on board with bailout plan</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/appeals_made_to_house_republicans_to_bring_them_on_board_with_bailout_plan/18235/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Negotiators are trying to lure some House Republicans to support the Bush administration&#8217;s bailout plan.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 27 Sep 2008 15:46:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/appeals_made_to_house_republicans_to_bring_them_on_board_with_bailout_plan/18235/#When:19:46:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>103,000 Razor PowerWing 3&#45;wheeled scooters recalled</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08409.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The undersides of the foot platforms can have sharp edges, posing a laceration hazard to children
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:59:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08409.html#When:21:59:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>30,000 Razor Dirt Quad electric 4&#45;wheelers recalled</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08410.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The control module for the throttle can fail and cause the electric ride-on vehicle to unexpectedly surge forward, posing a risk of injury to the user or a bystander
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:58:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08410.html#When:21:58:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Toy police cars recalled for lead</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08412.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The red paint on the toy cars contains excess levels of lead
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:57:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08412.html#When:21:57:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Jo&#45;Ann Fabric &amp;amp; Craft Stores Recall SmartSpace&#8482; Chairs</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08406.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Jo-Ann has received five reports of chairs collapsing when the legs were not locked
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:31:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08406.html#When:20:31:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Igloo Marine Elite Coolers recalled for cut hazard</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08407.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sharp edges on the stainless steel latch attached to the cooler can pose a laceration hazard to consumers
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08407.html#When:20:30:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Studio RTA TV stands recalled</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08408.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The stability of the stands does not meet industry standards to prevent TV tip-over, posing a risk of injury or death to consumers
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:29:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08408.html#When:20:29:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Weighty backpack caution</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/weighty_backpack_caution/17949/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Kids today are dealing with ever-increasing academic demands. But could your child&#8217;s homework load actually be causing physical injury? Consumer Reports had students weigh in to see if the backpack they&#8217;re carrying could literally turn into a real pain.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2008 08:16:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/weighty_backpack_caution/17949/#When:12:16:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Bank of the James will record Fannie Mae write&#45;down</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/bank_of_the_james_will_record_fannie_mae_write_down/17780/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It does not affect deposits held by Bank of the James, bank leaders said, but it will create negative earnings for the third quarter
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:32:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/bank_of_the_james_will_record_fannie_mae_write_down/17780/#When:20:32:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Shifting to manual for gas savings</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/shifting_to_manual_for_gas_savings/17675/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Prices at the pump might have started to come down, but people are still looking for any way they can to save on gas. Driving a stick shift could be one option. Consumer Reports pitted seven manual vehicles against automatic ones to see just how much a manual might save you. Testers found that in every matchup, the manual vehicles cut fuel use by at least 10 percent.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:16:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/shifting_to_manual_for_gas_savings/17675/#When:12:16:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>TV digital converter boxes tested</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tv_digital_converter_boxes_tested/17596/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
People who have an older analog TV will need a converter box when television goes all-digital next February, unless they want to sign up for cable or satellite. Consumer Reports has tested two dozen converter boxes, costing from around $50 to about $80. But they&#8217;ll cost you less if you get a $40 coupon from the government.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:51:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tv_digital_converter_boxes_tested/17596/#When:14:51:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>600,000 Simplicity Brand Drop Side cribs recalled because sides can detach and trap child</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/600000_simplicity_brand_drop_side_cribs_recalled_because_sides_can_detach_a/17572/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Some drop side cribs are being recalled because they can detach and create a dangerous gap that could kill a child.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/600000_simplicity_brand_drop_side_cribs_recalled_because_sides_can_detach_a/17572/#When:13:02:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>New Steve and Barry&#8217;s owners finalize store closing plan</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/new_steve_and_barrys_owners_finalize_store_closing_plan/17546/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Final answer: The Tanglewood Mall store will remain open, but the store in Lynchburg will close.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 18:42:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/new_steve_and_barrys_owners_finalize_store_closing_plan/17546/#When:22:42:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Pottery Barn recalls children&#8217;s metal water bottles</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08399.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The sip top on the water bottles can pull off, posing a choking hazard to young children
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:09:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08399.html#When:21:09:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Regent Sports recalls soccer goal nets following death of a child</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08400.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The fixed knot flexible openings in the soccer goal net can pose a head and neck entrapment or strangulation hazard to young children.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:08:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08400.html#When:21:08:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>12 brands of dog &amp;amp; cat food recalled over salmonella fears</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/12_brands_of_dog_food_recalled_over_salmonella_fears/17520/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Name brands include PEDIGREE, Ol&#8217; Roy, and Special Kitty.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:17:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/12_brands_of_dog_food_recalled_over_salmonella_fears/17520/#When:19:17:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tankless water heaters tested</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tankless_water_heaters_tested/17455/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When it comes to your gas and electric bill, it might surprise you to learn that up to 30 percent of your money goes to heating your water.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:05:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tankless_water_heaters_tested/17455/#When:12:05:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UVA economic summit</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/uva_economic_summit/17166/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The U.S. government&#8217;s takeover of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac marks a sharp change in the world&#8217;s long-standing view of the United States as a low-risk investment, according to several former foreign finance ministers Monday at a global economic summit at the University of Virginia
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:31:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/uva_economic_summit/17166/#When:12:31:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Lowdown on downsizing</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/lowdown_on_downsizing/17162/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
You might be getting less of what you want at the grocery store and not even know it. That&#8217;s because some favorite items are getting smaller in size, but unfortunately, the price isn&#8217;t shrinking. Consumer Reports has the lowdown on downsizing.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:05:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/lowdown_on_downsizing/17162/#When:12:05:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Starbucks to offer free &#8220;Good&#8221; paper with drinks</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/starbucks_to_offer_free_good_paper_with_drinks/17161/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Starting Thursday, September 11th, the chain will give away a free paper from the magazine &#8220;Good&#8221; in its stores.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/starbucks_to_offer_free_good_paper_with_drinks/17161/#When:12:00:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Virginia exports at an all&#45;time high</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/virginia_exports_at_an_all_time_high/17138/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Overseas ventures help keep state from feeling the brunt of a recession
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Sep 2008 05:51:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/virginia_exports_at_an_all_time_high/17138/#When:09:51:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Carry_on luggage to count on</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/carry_on_luggage_to_count_on/17069/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Many of the major airlines are charging major fees&#8212;$15 to $25 a bag&#8212;to check your luggage. If you&#8217;re looking to circumvent those fees by stuffing everything into one carry-on, Consumer Reports&#8217; latest tests can help you save money all the way around.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:15:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/carry_on_luggage_to_count_on/17069/#When:12:15:01Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Nonprofits have big role in Virginia&#8217;s economy</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/nonprofits_have_big_role_in_virginias_economy/16951/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
1 in 17 workers in state employed by one, says a new study of their impact
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:40:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/nonprofits_have_big_role_in_virginias_economy/16951/#When:15:40:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Sony recalls 73,000 VAIO TZ&#45;series Notebook Computers</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08392.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Irregularly positioned wires near the computer&#8217;s hinge and/or a dislodged screw inside the hinge can cause a short circuit and overheating. This poses a burn hazard to consumers
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:07:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08392.html#When:21:07:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Chesterfield dog owner sells puppy survival kits</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/chesterfield_dog_owner_sells_puppy_survival_kits/16836/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The puppy survival kit, which sells for $89, includes a durable chew toy, an organic soft squeaky toy, a travel tin with pup treats, chewing deterrent, training spray, training treats, spa dog shampoo and the training booklet.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:02:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/chesterfield_dog_owner_sells_puppy_survival_kits/16836/#When:10:02:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>TIVO  to roll out HD recorder with DirectTV</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tivo_to_roll_out_hd_recorder_with_directtv/16851/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
TIVO is planning to roll out a new High Definition DVR in conjuction with Direct TV.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2008 04:09:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tivo_to_roll_out_hd_recorder_with_directtv/16851/#When:08:09:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Kroger applying no smoking policy to customers, employees, delivery workers</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/kroger_applying_no_smoking_policy_to_customers_employees_delivery_workers/16839/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
On November 1st, all Kroger Mid-Atlantic stores, offices, warehouses, and vehicles will go smoke free.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/kroger_applying_no_smoking_policy_to_customers_employees_delivery_workers/16839/#When:22:15:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Wolf Appliance recalls 24,000 gas ranges</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08391.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Delayed ignition of gas in the 18-inch oven can cause a flash of flames to be projected at a consumer when the range door is opened, posing a burn hazard to consumers.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08391.html#When:21:44:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>57,000 Fairy Dust Pendants and Candle Charms recalled for lead</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08390.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The recalled metal pendants and charms contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:43:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08390.html#When:21:43:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Rapid Reel&#174; Recalls Portable Garden Hose Carts</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08384.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The tires on the portable garden hose reel can explode while being inflated
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:36:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08384.html#When:21:36:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Target recalls 330,000 Circo Children&#8217;s bobbie socks</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08386.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The ribbon on the sock can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:36:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08386.html#When:21:36:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Steve &amp;amp; Barry&#8217;s to close Candlers Station store</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/steve_barrys_to_close_candlers_station_store/16819/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
&#8220;Store Closing&#8221; signs were hung in the store&#8217;s windows over Labor Day weekend.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:24:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/steve_barrys_to_close_candlers_station_store/16819/#When:21:24:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Best String Trimmers</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/best_string_trimmers/16774/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
String trimmers are a handy gardening tool, but with prices from $20 to $700, how do you trim down your choices? Your first decision&#8212;should you get an electric, cordless, or gas trimmer?
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 08:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/best_string_trimmers/16774/#When:12:45:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Start your day off at Starbucks</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/start_your_day_off_at_starbucks/16766/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Starting today, you&#8217;ll be able to get a healthy start at Starbucks.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Sep 2008 03:48:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/start_your_day_off_at_starbucks/16766/#When:07:48:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Gas prices spike over Labor Day holiday weekend</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gas_prices_spike_over_labor_day_holiday_weekend/16724/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gustav fears, holiday travel to blame
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gas_prices_spike_over_labor_day_holiday_weekend/16724/#When:20:44:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Over 40,000 strollers recalled for laceration hazard</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/over_40000_strollers_recalled_for_laceration_hazard/16510/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of some strollers Thursday.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:16:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/over_40000_strollers_recalled_for_laceration_hazard/16510/#When:19:16:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Columbia Gas to lower Fall rates</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/columbia_gas_to_lower_fall_rates/16477/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The reduction follows rate increases that Columbia Gas imposed in the summer
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:03:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/columbia_gas_to_lower_fall_rates/16477/#When:13:03:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Company recalls dog toy because of choking hazzard</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/company_recalls_dog_toy_because_of_choking_hazzard/16411/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A company that makes dog toys is warning consumers about a defect that could cause harm to your dog.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:07:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/company_recalls_dog_toy_because_of_choking_hazzard/16411/#When:21:07:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>New federal law requires safeguards for records of customers, employees</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/new_federal_law_requires_safeguards_for_records_of_customers_employees/16376/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
By Nov. 1, many businesses need to be in compliance with new federal &#8220;red flag&#8221; rules, which require them to have a plan to prevent, detect and mitigate identify theft.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:29:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/new_federal_law_requires_safeguards_for_records_of_customers_employees/16376/#When:14:29:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Testing blood pressure monitors</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/testing_blood_pressure_monitors/16373/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Blood pressure is a vital sign often checked once a year in a doctor&#8217;s office. But home monitoring can stave off serious complications like heart disease and stroke.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:36:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/testing_blood_pressure_monitors/16373/#When:12:36:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Roanoke gas prices reverse downward trend</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/roanoke_gas_prices_reverse_downward_trend/16372/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
AAA Mid-Atlantic says the average cost of a gallon of regular unleaded rose a penny overnight
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:24:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/roanoke_gas_prices_reverse_downward_trend/16372/#When:12:24:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Alternative energy tax credit spurs green power projects</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/alternative_energy_tax_credit_spurs_green_power_projects/16326/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Developers and homeowners can save 30% of their costs right now by moving ahead with projects.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:20:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/alternative_energy_tax_credit_spurs_green_power_projects/16326/#When:09:20:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>IMS recalls car chargers used with halogen spotlights sold at Sears and K&#45;Mart</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08374.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The car charger is incompatible with the spotlight&#8217;s battery, which can cause it to overcharge inside of a vehicle and pose a fire or burn hazard to consumers.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:16:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08374.html#When:09:16:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Stroller activity bars recalled by International Playthings</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08373.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The shiny material on the elephant&#8217;s ear on the activity bar can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08373.html#When:09:15:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Sears, K&#45;Mart recall Kenmore 145,000 coffee makers</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08372.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The wiring in the coffee maker can overheat, posing burn and fire hazards to consumers
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:10:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08372.html#When:09:10:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>An explosion of great beer</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/an_explosion_of_great_beer/16157/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With planned &#8216;beer trail,&#8217; Charlottesville area brewers hope emulate Virginia&#8217;s wine industry.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:05:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/an_explosion_of_great_beer/16157/#When:16:05:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Alarming clocks get kids moving</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/alarming_clocks_get_kids_moving/16041/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The kids have been back in school only a few days and already you&#8217;re secretly loading squirt guns with ice water. There was a time you would&#8217;ve called such an idea cruel. Remember? Now, blasting your slumbering schnookums out of bed sounds, simply, brilliant.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 25 Aug 2008 06:02:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/alarming_clocks_get_kids_moving/16041/#When:10:02:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>How&#8217;d you sleep last night?</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/howd_you_sleep_last_night/15978/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you didn&#8217;t get enough sleep last night, join the club. Americans are sleeping two hours less per night on average than they did a century ago.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2008 05:18:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/howd_you_sleep_last_night/15978/#When:09:18:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Hot Pockets Recall</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/hot_pockets_recall/15973/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Nestle Prepared Food Company is recalling Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza sandwiches because some many contain &#8220;foreign materials.&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 21 Aug 2008 23:13:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/hot_pockets_recall/15973/#When:03:13:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Protecting Your Computer</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/protecting_your_computer/15920/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There are dangerous hazards lurking online to infiltrate your computer. But help is on the way! Consumer Reports tested 10 Internet security software programs you have to pay for&#8212;like McAfee and Norton from Symantec&#8212;as well as software you can download free.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:03:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/protecting_your_computer/15920/#When:12:03:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Small SUV&#8217;s tested in crash tests</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/small_suvs_tested_in_crash_tests/15875/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety releases its new crash test results.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:28:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/small_suvs_tested_in_crash_tests/15875/#When:15:28:01Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Lead paint test kits</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/lead_paint_test_kits/15831/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Lead can cause serious health problems, including damage to the brain and nervous system. Young children are especially at risk. While lead-based paint was banned in the U.S. in 1978, every home built before then probably has some. To help you check out your house, Consumer Reports just evaluated do-it-yourself lead test kits.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2008 08:18:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/lead_paint_test_kits/15831/#When:12:18:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Virginia among national foreclosure leaders</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/virginia_among_national_foreclosure_leaders/15687/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia is among 10 states with the nation&#8217;s highest foreclosure rates
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:10:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/virginia_among_national_foreclosure_leaders/15687/#When:15:10:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Plastic baby bottles tested</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/plastic_baby_bottles_tested/15669/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Concerns are on the rise about the chemical bisphenol A, or BPA. It&#8217;s used to make a variety of food containers, including some plastic baby bottles.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 08:10:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/plastic_baby_bottles_tested/15669/#When:12:10:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>BMW issues recall over air bag problem</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/bmw_issues_recall_over_air_bag_problem/15662/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
BMW recalls 200,000 cars over concerns that the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2008 23:53:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/bmw_issues_recall_over_air_bag_problem/15662/#When:03:53:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>In hard times, people turn to auto salvage yards</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/in_hard_times_people_turn_to_auto_salvage_yards/15570/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While some retailers are reporting soft sales of new auto parts, used-parts companies are reporting a rise in sales.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2008 06:42:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/in_hard_times_people_turn_to_auto_salvage_yards/15570/#When:10:42:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tires at risk of blowing out</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tires_at_risk_of_blowing_out/15560/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Consumer Reports reports on tire dangers.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:58:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tires_at_risk_of_blowing_out/15560/#When:15:58:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>A turning economy pulls business to Danville</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/a_turning_economy_pulls_business_to_danville/15492/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Over the past couple decades, companies looking to cut costs moved operations from manufacturing to customer service overseas. But recent economic conditions are forcing multinational corporations to reexamine their books.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:32:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/a_turning_economy_pulls_business_to_danville/15492/#When:14:32:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Experts: Housing tips Florida into recession</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/experts_housing_tips_florida_into_recession/15405/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Top economists from Wachovia and Regions banks say there&#8217;s little doubt Florida has fallen into a recession. But on a more positive note, Florida continues to attract new residents.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 08 Aug 2008 07:43:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/experts_housing_tips_florida_into_recession/15405/#When:11:43:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Fisher&#45;Price Recalls Learning Pots and Pans Toys</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08362.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Missing screws in the blue toy pan can cause the clear plastic cover to come loose and release small balls, presenting a choking hazard to young children
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08362.html#When:23:44:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>RECALL: Signature Gourmet&#8482; and Crofton&#174; Personal Blenders</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08361.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While placing the cup on or off the base of the blender, the blender can be inadvertently turned on, activating the blade. This can pose a serious laceration hazard to consumers.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:43:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08361.html#When:23:43:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Progress Lighting Recalls Indoor Light Fixtures</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08360.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The ceiling-mount assembly that supports the light fixture can fail, causing the fixture to unexpectedly fall and injure consumers
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:42:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08360.html#When:23:42:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Tyson Foods recalls 51,000 pounds of chicken</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tyson_foods_recalls_51000_pounds_of_chicken/15360/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tyson Foods Inc. is recalling more than 51,000 pounds of frozen raw chicken breast tenderloin over concerns it may contain soy.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 08:14:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/tyson_foods_recalls_51000_pounds_of_chicken/15360/#When:12:14:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Mobile banking is catching on</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/mobile_banking_is_catching_on/15318/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
About 60 percent of the banks in the country will offer at least one type of mobile banking by the end of the year, according to the American Bankers Association. 


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:13:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/mobile_banking_is_catching_on/15318/#When:14:13:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Halogen Work Lights Recalled by Harbor Freight Tools</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08353.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The halogen work lights can overheat and melt, and pose a risk of fire and electrical shock to consumers
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:27:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08353.html#When:00:27:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>DEWALT Recalls Cordless Brad Nailers</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08352.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The nailer can operate when the lock-off (safety) is in the locked position. Also, the nailer can operate when the trigger is not pulled and the contact trip is depressed. The unexpected ejection of a nail poses a serious injury hazard to consumers.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:26:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08352.html#When:00:26:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Bicycle Pedals Recalled by Look Cycle</title>
          <link>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08354.html</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The steel axle inside the pedal can break, posing a fall hazard to cyclists
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:28:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml08/08354.html#When:23:28:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Gas prices drop over the weekend</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gas_prices_drop_over_the_weekend/15233/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The temperature may be going up, but the price of gas is slowly going down
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:10:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/gas_prices_drop_over_the_weekend/15233/#When:23:10:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Roanoke may be the best place in state to buy a home</title>
          <link>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/roanoke_may_be_the_best_place_in_state_to_buy_a_home/15133/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While Northern Virginia and other urban areas around the state have seen double-digit increases in housing prices in recent years, Chmura says, the Roanoke region &#8220;saw only one quarter of double-digit appreciation over the past 10 years. Homes are much more affordable there.&#8221; 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2008 10:52:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.wsls.com/sls/business/consumer/article/roanoke_may_be_the_best_place_in_state_to_buy_a_home/15133/#When:14:52:00Z</guid>
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