A Northern Kentucky diner announced on social media Wednesday that it has permanently shut down.

Granny's Latonia Diner, located at 3728 Winston Ave. in Covington's West Latonia neighborhood, posted to Facebook to announce that Wednesday, April 15, was its last day of service.

The diner said the closure comes after the owner of the building sold it, nullifying the restaurant's lease.

"We are so thankful for all the support everyone has shown us," the restaurant wrote on Facebook.

Despite the closure, the restaurant said it's still working to be able to host its free community Thanksgiving dinner this year.

The restaurant also said it's hoping to find a new spot to open in.

Granny's Latonia Diner is where "culinary passion meets a warm, inviting atmosphere," according to the restaurant's website.

The restaurant's menu included diner favorites like double-decker sandwiches, burgers, homemade soups and breakfast options like biscuits and gravy, omelettes and more.

You can read Granny's Latonia Diner's full announcement below:

Spring brings new opportunities to save money on grocery essentials and find time-saving meals for families tight on time.

New deals hit shelves at many stores every Wednesday. Here's where you can find some of the biggest savings this week.

WATCH: Where to find the best grocery deals this week

Kroger is running four times fuel points on produce this week. Shoppers can take advantage of those gas savings by picking up the following deals with a Kroger Plus card:

Kroger is also expanding its Private Selection brand with more than 20 new meals designed for families short on time.

The new Private Selection line brings high quality and convenience without the premium price tag or hours spent in the kitchen, said Ann Reed, group vice president of Our Brands at Kroger. The meals provide an exceptional value that allows customers to enjoy exciting and flavorful dishes that are high quality and ready in minutes.

The new ready-to-eat assortment includes:

Shoppers looking to stock up on protein and frozen favorites can find deals at Meijer, including:

Rollbacks at Walmart are hitting the drink aisle hard. Standout deals include:

Aldi is once again leading the pack on produce deals. Shoppers can find:

These weekly grocery roundups are designed to help you save on your trip to the store, so I want to hear from you.

Do you want more price comparisons on certain products? Or would you rather see more hidden ways to save on groceries? Contact me at the email below I will look into it for you, so you don't waste your money:

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Popular boutique chain Painted Tree abruptly closed all stores nationwide, leaving business owners scrambling.

Painted Tree Boutiques, a chain where small business owners rent space to sell goods on consignment, closed all locations, including the Cincinnati and Crestview Hills locations.

The company, which opened in 2015 and had over 60 locations nationwide, notified shop owners of the closure Tuesday.

In an email sent to shop owners, Painted Tree Boutiques did not say what caused the sudden closure of the company nationwide.

"We understand the impact this has on you and your business, and we are truly sorry. We know many of you have invested significant time, energy, and resources into building your spaces at Painted Tree, and this is not the outcome any of us hoped for," the company wrote in the email.

Watch below to learn more:

The email also says a "skeleton crew" will be at each location to help business owners retrieve inventory but since Painted Tree is closed, business owners will have to call the store to notify that crew, so they can open the doors.

We caught up with small business vendors at the Cincinnati and Crestview Hills locations of Painted Tree Boutiques. Many told us they were shocked by the news of the immediate closure.

There was no indication that the business was failing, so when we got the email yesterday, it was kinda like, 'um.' And no one, it seems, had any warning. Anyone in the company, Jenn Jordan said.

Jenn Jordan and her son Jakob Jordan, who is non-verbal and uses an iPad to communicate with others, own Cards by Jakob. It's a small business that prints Jakob's drawings onto cards and clothing.

It has been Jakob Jordan's dream to be a business owner, his mother said.

From day one, my goal has been to put smiles on others' faces. What made this place so amazing was getting to see those smiles as people shopped for my designs. I will forever miss that, Jakob Jordan said.

The Jordans said the sudden and immediate closure has left them devastated. But they arent the only ones.

Aadil Tayabee owns Aspire & Glo, a small business with a location inside Painted Tree Boutique in Crestview Hills.

This is peoples lives, all over the country, Tayabee said. Tens of thousands of businesses all gone ... They didnt give a notice, and thats the biggest tragedy.

WATCH: Small business owners react to the announcement

We asked how the immediate closure impacts Tayabee and the other small businesses inside the Crestview Hills location.

I just invested about $12,000, just last month (to bring in new product), Tayabee said. Financially, (a) big loss. Massive.

As for whats next, its still a big question mark for many. The Jordans said they will continue to sell their products on Etsy and at local craft fairs. Tayabee hopes to recreate the business model of Painted Trees locally in the near future.

Shop owners have until Sunday, April 24, to retrieve their inventory. Business owners will be able to access the building between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily until then.

"All merchandise and personal property in your booth or space belongs to you," reads the email. "Please bring any help, packing materials, and vehicles you may need."

Store staff will be able to facilitate access to the building, but will have limited capacity to help business owners with breakdown or loading, the email says.

Anyone with questions about access to a Painted Tree store, or removing products, can email questions@paintedtree.com.

"We are deeply grateful to every shop owner who has been a part of the Painted Tree community," the email says. "Your creativity and dedication made Painted Tree what it was, and we are truly sorry it has come to this."

On Facebook, the Cincinnati location posted the hours during which business owners can collect their belongings, adding that the shop will not be open to the public. More than 50 people have commented on the post, most trying to reach out to many of the local businesses that had stalls inside the boutique.

"Could shop owners post their individual social media pages?" one commenter said.

Others in the comment section were business owners sharing their business's Facebook pages, so fans can still support their companies.

Another person asked how Painted Tree plans to handle gift cards purchased for the boutique. Painted Tree itself has not responded to any of the social media comments.

Katelyn Fugate recently checked a savings account she set up for her young son a few years back.

Like many parents, she opened the account and left it alone.

"I went to check on it to see what the balance was and hopefully start adding to it again," Fugate said. "The balance was zero, which I was very surprised about."

What happened? It turns out the bank declared the account dormant after five years of inactivity, and turned the funds over to the state's unclaimed funds department.

However, Fugate tells us she hasn't been able to locate the money.

"It's definitely not at the bank; theyve turned it over. I can't find it on the missing funds [website] as of yet," Fugate said.

Watch as a mom warns about what can happen when you leave a bank account alone:

Inactivity risks

Ted Rossman, a principal analyst with Bankrate, said some banks flag inactivity after as little as six months.

"That would be no money moving in or out, no transactions for six months," he said. "Sometimes the threshold is a bit longer."

Some financial institutions charge a fee for inactivity ranging from about $5 to $20 per month.

If an account sits dormant for too long, the bank will close it.

"Three to five years, you might have to go to the state to get the money back," Rossman said.

In some cases, a bank may mail a check for the money left in your account.

According to Bankrate, any scheduled transactions will fail, which could cause late fees or missed income depending on the type of account.

How to avoid fees or closures

It only takes a few dollars moving in and out of an account to keep it active and prevent closure.

"Even if it's something small put your Netflix subscription on there and have that transaction once a month. Kind of restart the clock," Rossman said.

Rossman also recommends the following steps to keep an account active:

"Not every bank's policies are the same, so you might want to look around before you even sign up and get into more of a fee-friendly kind of account," Rossman suggested.

We contacted Fugate's bank, which said it will investigate where the money went.

Meanwhile, she is warning other parents to keep children's accounts active.

"I didn't know about this until it happened to me, and I don't want it to happen to somebody else," Fugate said, so you don't waste your money.

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The 2026 tax deadline is here.

You must file your tax return by the end of the day on Wednesday, April 15. If you're not ready, you can request an automatic six-month extension, but there are some things you may want to know before you get that extension.

WATCH: Tax expert warns about waiting until the last minute to file

Tax offices will be open late

It's crunch time once again for Gina Pinto and her employees at the Liberty Tax office in Norwood.

"You will be surprised how many people wait," Pinto said. "Every year, we see people walk in the door at 11 p.m., April 15."

Her office, like many others, plans to be open till midnight.

But waiting until the last minute creates problems, she said, because many taxpayers forget important forms.

"A lot of people don't bring all the documentation they need," Pinto said.

At that point, you need to scramble to find a missing 1099 (which is very common) or some other form you should have received but did not.

The good news is that the IRS makes it as easy as possible to get a tax extension.

All you need to do is submit Form 4868, the application for an automatic extension.

That will push back the 2026 deadline until October 15. But a caution: It doesn't mean you have till October to pay your taxes.

You get six more months to file, but you still need to pay what you think you owe by Wednesday night at midnight. Otherwise, you will face a penalty if you owe money and have not paid it by April 15.

If you do nothing, the IRS will slap you with a penalty, plus interest on whatever you owe.

So go to www.IRS.gov and fill out Form 4868 now. It's that easy.

One final suggestion from Pinto: "Don't wait" until the last possible moment Wednesday to ask for an extension, just in case an issue pops up or your laptop freezes.

Finally, with refunds up slightly this year due to changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill, and the IRS running on time, you should get your refund within two to three weeks, so you don't waste your money.

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A small business in Northern Kentucky announced Monday that it is permanently closing its doors.

Tuba Baking Co., located at 517 Sixth Avenue in Dayton, announced on social media that it is shutting down after eight years of business. The restaurant's final day of service will be Saturday, June 27.

"Man it's been a crazy 8 years! But the time has come for us to make the very difficult decision to end this chapter of Tuba," owners Drew and Valerie Rath wrote. "We want to be able to spend more time with our kids and give to them the time and attention they have so graciously sacrificed for us to even get this far."

The mom-and-pop restaurant specializes in Swabian-style pretzels, which have skinnier "arms" and a split baby unlike Bavarian pretzels. Outside of the pretzels, Tuba Baking Co. offers Southern German-inspired scratch-made cuisine, such as schnitzel, currywurst, spatzle and more.

The restaurant's menu also includes Cincinnati chili-influenced items like the "Swabinatian," which has spatzle a chewy egg noodle topped with Cincinnati chili lentils, shredded cheese and onion.

Tuba Baking Co. first began as a farmers market stand before they opened a brick-and-mortar location in Covington in 2019. The couple moved the restaurant to Dayton in 2022.

"Our fans and customers have blown us away with your love and passion for the food weve put on a plate and the family weve cultivated at our bar (and) in our Biergarten," the Raths wrote. "We love serving you, we love this area, and we love what we do, but it is time we focus on our next chapters."

With several weeks ahead until their official closure, the Raths are inviting guests to come celebrate the "dishes, drinks and laughter" they've shared over the years.

You can read Tuba Baking Co.'s full announcement below:

Is it time to rethink buying a hybrid or fully electric vehicle?

Higher gas prices and high rates on car loans are prompting many drivers to give fuel-efficient cars another look. 

Gas prices rose by more than $1 on average from the end of February to the end of March.

This increase has renewed shopper interest in EVs, with Cars.com reporting an average 25% surge in total EV searches during the same period.

New EV searches were up 23.8%, while used EV searches rose 25.5%.

Hybrids have also seen a healthy bump with new hybrid searches up 12.5%. 

"As an EV owner myself, I will say right now, it's a really good feeling to drive past the gas station," said Jenni Newman, editor-in-chief at Cars.com.

WATCH car buyers explain why they are now looking at hybrids and EVs:

EVs and higher upfront costs

Newmans advice to any driver considering an EV is to think about range, how many miles they drive daily, and their ability to charge at home.  

If you own an EV, Level 2 charging is often recommended for longer range and quicker charging times. While Level 2 chargers are convenient, they are also an added expense.  

"We've installed EV chargers at some of the houses of our expert car reviewers here at Cars.com," Newman said. "We found the range in price was all over the place. It was as little as $1,500 to as much as $6,000 because this person had to do a trench; they had to get a new panel."

Electric vehicles require much less maintenance due to fewer parts and no engine oil. But they are more expensive upfront. 

According to Cox Automotive, the average transaction price for new EVs in January was $55,715. 

Manufacturers are releasing more affordable, mass-market EVs in their new lineups. The redesigned 2026 Nissan Leaf starts at $31,535. The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt starts at $28,995. 

Used EV trends

The used EV market is emerging as a sweet spot for buyers.

The average listing price for used EVs was $35,442 in January, down 5.1% year over year. 

"You can get a brand-new Model Y for what, $60, $70,000? You can get a used one for $29, $30,000," said Karl Albright, general manager at National City Auto Center in National City, California.

According to CarGurus, shopper interest is translating into real demand, with used EV sales up nearly 30% year over year.

The Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Chevy Equinox EV, and Nissan Ariya are seeing some of the biggest gains. 

Shopper Anthony Kemper is considering buying a used EV. 

"You don't pay that high sticker price on the lot, and you don't lose any value right away," Kemper said. 

Corey Haire with CarMax said the company launched its own EV hub to answer common questions from consumers. 

"Giving the consumer that information so that they can make that right decision, because it can be kind of a lifestyle change," Haire said. 

Shopper Bridget Babbe checked out the fully electric Mustang Mach-E, which has an energy efficiency equivalent to 90 miles per gallon of gas. 

"It would be great to save on gas, especially with the prices on gas," Babbe said. 

An EV will save you thousands at the pump, but know the full upfront cost before you buy, so you dont waste your money. 

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A Dutch Bros Coffee is proposed for the southeast corner of Breiel Boulevard and Batsey Drive in Middletown.

Plans submitted to the city show a 986-square-foot building with two drive-thru lanes and no indoor seating. A walk-up service window is planned on the west side of the building.

The project would redevelop about 0.59 acres of the existing Middletown Shopping Center parking lot. Nearby businesses include Mr. Hibachi Japanese Grill, Burger King and Little Caesars Pizza.

Dutch Bros was founded in 1992 in Grants Pass, Oregon, by brothers Dane and Travis Boersma, who started the company from an espresso pushcart. As of late 2025, the chain had expanded to 1,081 locations across 24 states, according to the company.

The brand is known for customizable hot, iced or blended coffee drinks as well as its Rebel energy drinks, teas, lemonades, shakes and smoothies.

The proposed Middletown location is part of a broader expansion into the Miami Valley that began last year.

Dutch Bros' first location in Ohio opened in Springfield Township in 2025. According to Dutch Bros's website, they also have Greater Cincinnati area locations in Milford and Sharonville.

There's also a location north of Dayton that opened in September in Butler Township. Additional area locations are also planned near the University of Dayton campus and in Fairborn and Riverside near Dayton.

The location proposed for Middletown will go before the citys planning commission in May.

Spring is a great time to declutter your home, but it's also the perfect time to tidy up your finances.

Giving your credit score a fresh start is one move that really pays off.

"You are going to make yourself a better candidate for all the things in life that you may want," said Bobbi Rebell, a consumer finance expert with BadCredit.org.

Improving your credit score can mean lower interest rates when its time to apply for a mortgage, car loan or any kind of personal loan.

"When you get a job, they sometimes run a credit check. So having solid credit is really important and really pays off," Rebell said.

Watch as financial experts show how to easily boost your credit score:

Check your credit report for errors

The first way to avoid high interest rates and improve your credit is to check your credit report for errors at AnnualCreditReport.com.

"Whatever looks fishy, take the time, clean it up, speak directly to the credit bureaus," Rebell said.

Improve your credit utilization

Your credit utilization is the amount of credit youre using compared to your credit limits.

Experts suggest keeping credit utilization at less than 30% to maintain good credit. Those with excellent credit keep it below 10%.

Ted Rossman, a principal analyst at Bankrate, said a credit card user can have a high credit utilization ratio even if they pay their credit card balance in full.

"If you have a $5,000 limit and you charge $4,000 throughout the month, you're using 80% of your available credit. That's actually really high and that's going to hurt your score," he said.

Rossman suggests making an extra mid-month payment or asking your credit card company for a higher credit limit to bring that ratio down.

Make payments on time

No one wants a late ding on their credit report.

Rebell recommends automating payments, even for the minimum amount.

"Pay at least the minimum on time every month because the number one thing that can hurt your credit score is being late," she said.

Dont close old credit cards

Even if youve paid a balance in full, one thing you should not do is close old credit cards.

"You're thinking, 'I don't use that anymore. What's the big deal?' But in fact, it is a big deal because it's showing that you have a long history of being a reliable borrower. And that is something that lenders really like to see," Rebell said.

Keep an old account active with small purchases or set them up to pay a streaming service once a month.

Rossman said a credit score in the mid-700s is viewed positively by lenders. Below that, every 20 points matter.

"If you're a 720 or a 700 or a 680, every one of these is a noticeable stair step in terms of approval odds," he said.

If youre receiving a tax refund this spring, consider putting it toward high-interest credit card debt a great move toward better credit, so you dont waste your money.

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A new scam that starts as a simple wrong-number text is targeting millions of Americans, leading to potential financial loss and threats for those who respond.

A recent CNET survey found that 96% of Americans are targeted by a scam call, email or text every week.

"It's terrible, it's terrible," Tom Davidson told us, about all the texts showing up on his phone.

WATCH: Some of the wrong number text messages that people are receiving

The newest text scam often appears innocent.

Messages will show up as a wrong number, asking questions like, "Hi, are you preparing for next month's trip?"

Or, "I'm back in town if you want to meet up."

Reporters are not exempt. I received three wrong number texts just this week.

One asked me to update a contact list (what contact list?). A second wondered if I would like to meet for lunch (sure, but with whom?)

A third asked if I was still living near Pasadena. I have never lived in Pasadena, though I visited once and thought the Rose Bowl stadium was beautiful.

A report from CNBC says these messages are a new payday for scammers. By responding, you provide them with your name and confirm they have reached a live person.

Once scammers confirm a live person, they can target you with requests for money or threats. Common examples include:

Click on it, and you can go down a rabbit hole of requests for personal information.

"I'm mad at myself for clicking on it. It was like an impulse. They are looking for people who are busy ... and not thinking about it," Eric Schwartz said.

Your best bet is to never respond to an unknown text message, even if you are just trying to be polite. You should check the wording, spelling, and the calling area code.

Most importantly, do not click on any text message from someone you do not know to avoid being scammed, and so you don't waste your money.

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Restaurant lovers and foodies get ready, because Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week is returning to Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky later this month.

The week of meal deals runs Monday, April 20, through Sunday, April 26, at more than 60 participating restaurants.

Participating restaurants will be offering prix-fixe meals for lunch and dinner. The meals are $26, $36, $46 or $56 depending on the restaurant, and $1 from every meal will be donated to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Some of this year's participating restaurants include Primavista, Baru, Nicholson's The Green Line, Ivory House, Coppin's at Hotel Covington and many more.

Those who dine at participating restaurants can also download the Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week app to map out their dining experiences and check in at restaurants, earning points. Those who check in to three or more restaurants will be automatically entered to win $300 in restaurant gift cards, a Bulleit Bourbon fire pit and more.

You can download the app from the App Store and Google Play.

Here is the full list of participating restaurants for Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week:

You can click here to learn more about Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week.

Budgets are tight these days, making it more important than ever to find ways to cut back on weekly expenses. The grocery budget is one of our most consistent expenses, but there are some big markdowns to take advantage of this week so you don't waste your money.

Here is a breakdown of the best deals you can find at the grocery store right now:

Ground beef has been expensive for months, but shoppers can find some relief at Kroger this week. Whether you are feeding the whole family or firing up the grill, there are several ways to save:

WATCH: Here's where you can find the best grocery deals this week

Over at Aldi, you will find strong markdowns on fresh produce and trending items to help stretch your dollar.

Walmart is making it easy to switch up your weekly meals without the guesswork. The store's "recipes for about $5 per serving" category continues to grow in popularity.

You can get everything you need in one click, making it easier to add new meals to your week. For example, if you click on a sheet pan recipe, you can add all the required ingredients to your cart and see step-by-step instructions.

There are a few standout deals at Meijer this week for shoppers looking to stock up.

If you are looking to save by buying in bulk, now may be a good time to join Sam's Club. Memberships are marked down through April 23.

If you have been thinking about signing up, now is the time because membership prices are set to increase by $10 starting May 1.

The club tier will rise to $60 a year, while the plus membership will be $120 annually.

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From auto shows to dealer showrooms, one message is loud and clear new cars are shockingly expensive.

That has more car buyers leaning on tax refunds for help.

"It doesn't hurt," said shopper Lauren Brausch.

In February, Kelley Blue Book reported new vehicle prices averaged $49,353.

This spring, higher tax refunds are helping to close the gap with the average refund about 10% higher than last year.

"That can really give consumers the financial boosts that they need to replace that vehicle that's not reliable anymore," said Corey Haire, vice president of regional sales for CarMax.

Watch as car buyers and experts talk about using your tax refund toward a new car:

What to expect shopping for cars this spring

When new car prices climb, used car prices follow. The average listing price for used vehicles in February was $25,287, according to Cox Automotive.

"Dealers are having to pay more to acquire those used car vehicles, which means that the price that the new owner will pay is also going to be a little higher," said Jenni Newman, editor-in-chief of Cars.com. "The cars are moving quickly off the lot. That also adds a level of pressure for shoppers and also less room for negotiation."

Before shoppers get discouraged, Haire said there are plenty of affordable used vehicles still on the market.

"We've got more than 25,000 cars available across CarMax that are actually under $25,000," she said.

As far as timing goes, there's no way to predict when prices will rise or fall. Experts say to time a purchase when it's right for you.

"There really is no universal best time. It is a big investment," Haire said. "It's really about, is it the best time for you personally as a consumer."

How far a tax refund can go

If you need a car and are receiving a tax refund, you certainly want to make the most of it.

A Cars.com survey found one in three active car buyers plan to use their tax return toward a new vehicle purchase.

More than a third indicate that recent tax deductions have incentivized them to look at American-made vehicles.

"The truth is, there are a lot of foreign automakers who have built plants here in the U.S. and their cars are American-made," Newman said.

Effective 2025 through 2028, taxpayers can deduct eligible car loan interest, up to $10,000 annually. The vehicle must have undergone final assembly in the U.S.

Newman points to Cars.com's American-Made Index for help.

"You can see the 99 vehicles that were built in the U.S. in 2025," she said.

While there are perks to owning a new car, don't rule out a used vehicle.

"A new car is going to depreciate, usually in the first two to four years. So let somebody else pay for that depreciation," Haire said.

For savings, Haire also recommends:

Newman urges consumers to negotiate a lower interest rate and understand the total cost of the vehicle before you buy.

"Monthly payment is really important, but you really need to think about the length of the loan or how long you'll be making those payments and, ultimately, how much you're paying," she said.

Some buyers, like Noah Freed, plan to save their refund, hoping to make a car purchase in the next year or two.

"We're just putting money away, making sure we have a nice nest egg. You never know what's going to happen with the economy," Freed said.

Experts say there is no single best time to buy. It all depends on individual needs.

However, know what you're walking into, so you dont waste your money.

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With grocery prices still high, more shoppers are turning to warehouse clubs like Sams Club and Costco to stretch their budgets.

But starting next month, Sams Club is raising membership fees, making it more important than ever to plan wisely. For longtime Sams Club member Nyshyara Wells, buying in bulk has always been a practical way to save.

I have a family to feed, and they eat a lot, she said.

Wells said for families like hers, the value is clear.

You get three, four times more than you would at a regular store, Wells said.

Buying in bulk can save you money, but experts say it only works if you focus on the right items. Christopher Baxter, general manager at Sams Club, points to everyday essentials as some of the best bulk buys.

When you look at things like paper towels, toilet paper, I think baby care items are really big for our members, Baxter said.

He said cleaning supplies and laundry detergent are also valuable buys.

WATCH: What to expect from Sam's Club membership price increases

Sams Club memberships are increasing by $10. The basic club membership will rise to $60 a year, while the plus membership will cost $120.

Sam's Club pricing after May 1:

Even after the increase, Sams Club will still be slightly cheaper than Costco:

Baxter said the price increase will support added perks for members, including enhanced delivery programs and the ability to shop on your phone and skip checkout lines.

Members can also save at the pump. Both Sams Club and Costco often charge 10 to 30 cents less per gallon than other nearby stations.

Still, bulk buying isnt automatically a money-saver. Experts warn that impulse purchases can quickly erase the benefits. Before you join, ask yourself:

For those looking to join, there are limited-time offers that could reduce membership fees. Sams Club is offering new member discounts through April 23, but these deals do not apply to renewals:

If you buy essentials in bulk, take advantage of fuel discounts and shop strategically, a warehouse club membership can help stretch your budget. But if you rarely visit or dont have space for large packages, the membership fees could outweigh the savings.

For larger families, joining may make sense, but for one or two people, it might be better to waitthat way you don't waste your money.

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UPDATE: This deal has ended, and Kroger has not announced any more upcoming Senior Discount Days. This story is now for archive purposes only.

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With the price of groceries higher than ever and inflation still running at nearly 3%, Kroger is giving its older shoppers a break ... at least for a day.

The company told WCPO that all of its stores in the Greater Cincinnati area will offer seniors a 5% discount on Wednesday April 8, 2026. Spokesperson Danielle Gentry told us the discount will work all day at any Cincinnati, Dayton or Northern Kentucky area store.

In addition, she says, "most of the Kroger Family of stores, including stores in Columbus, Indianapolis, Atlanta, Louisville, Nashville and Detroit will also participate," but be sure to check with the store if it is in another market.

Watch: What you need to know about Senior Discount Day at Kroger

And early birds will get a bonus.

"In addition to hosting the senior day, well have engagement tables with treats set up in the stores between 9 and 11 a.m. on that day to greet our customers," Gentry said.

Best of all, you don't have to be 65 to qualify for the discount. The sale is open to everyone age 55 and older as long as you can show your age on your driver's license or state ID, and have a Kroger Plus Card.

All food items qualify for the markdown. Gift cards, alcohol, tobacco and lottery tickets, however, do not qualify for the discount.

Kroger is sometimes criticized for not offering a weekly senior discount, as Jungle Jim's and several other grocery chains do. AARP lists grocery stores that offer a regular discount for seniors.

But at least on this one day, older (and many middle-aged) shoppers can save a few bucks at Kroger, so you don't waste your money.

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As hibernating lawns shake off winter, homeowners might be scrambling to hire a lawn care service for the spring and summer.

But with the rising cost of fertilizer adding to the high price of lawn care, a few smart selections and some simple chores on your own can save hundreds of dollars.

Watch lawn care experts show how to keep your costs down this year:

Basics add up quick

The cost to maintain lush grass and healthy flower beds keeps going up, but to no ones surprise, do-it-yourself lawn care is still your cheapest option.

We checked out prices of common products at Ace Hardware:

Thats $100 or more just to green up the lawn.

Instead of paying for some of these products individually, Ace Hardware manager Sean Moore recommends multi-step programs with discounted rates.

Scotts 4 Step Program with weed control and lawn food, for instance, is $229 for four products used in early spring, late spring, summer and fall. Ace offers a $60 rebate.

"There are specific chemistry makeups in each one of the products that take you through spring, summer, fall and winter," Moore said. "If you put this stuff down at the right time, it takes care of the specific problems that your lawn can face."

Hiring lawn care help

When yard work becomes too much to handle on your own, tools such as GreenPal can help find vetted lawn care professionals.

The app provides multiple quotes for services like mowing, edging, weeding and mulching from companies in your area.

"GreenPal has been described as the Uber for lawn care," said GreenPal co-founder Gene Caballero. "They get different pricing, and they get to review all those vendors' ratings and reviews and see pictures of his previous work."

When deciding which company to hire, Caballero said lawn care professionals should have a social media presence to share previous work, professional-grade equipment and references from other customers.

The marketplace Angi suggests the following ways to save:

Professionals cost more than DIY. Angi estimates $100 to $500 depending on lawn size, services performed and your lawns current condition. But professionals know how to properly care for different soil, grass and plant types.

"It sometimes pays for the experience. It's what we do every single day," said landscape designer Jennifer Egbert.

Experts say regular maintenance throughout the year can really help you save, so youre not stuck with one giant bill to get your lawn back into shape in early spring.

"In the years to come, youre going to notice that you have to do less maintenance on your lawn," Moore said.

Whether youre cleaning up on your own, or hiring a service, try these simple steps so you dont waste your money.

_______________________

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With identity theft on the rise, it's more important than ever to make sure you are safely disposing of documents that could leave you vulnerable. The Furniture Fair WCPO 9 Shred Day is the perfect option to protect yourself.

The free event takes place on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at five Furniture Fair Cincinnati locations:

There is a limit of four bags or boxes per vehicle. To keep the line moving, please keep these guidelines in mind:

What you can shred: All paper, rubber bands, paper clips, staples, notebooks, file folders, alligator clips, blueprints.

What you cannot shred: Batteries, metal items, hard drives, computers, electronics, plastic bottles, glass, perishable items, food, liquids.

You can also dispose of unwanted and expired medications at the Shred Day event. Over-the-counter medications and prescription pills will be accepted for an environmentally safe destruction. But liquids, ointments, needles, pens, gels and creams cannot be accepted.

The Federal Trade Commission's website lists documents it states are safe to shred:

The Federal Trade Commission recommends that while some documents are considered safe to destroy after a year, others should be kept longer, and in some cases, indefinitely.

The FTC suggests keeping bank statements, pay stubs, undisputed medical bills, credit card and utility bills and deposited checks for at least a year. As long as you can access these documents electronically, you can consider shredding paper copies.

But it says you should keep income tax returns, along with tax-related documents like canceled checks, receipts, W-2 forms and 1099 forms; and records related to selling a home for at least three years.

On top of that, the Internal Revenue Service says there are circumstances in which you should keep tax returns and tax-related documents for even longer.

There are some documents the FTC says should be kept indefinitely. You should retain documents like your vehicle title, the title or deed to your home, documents related to your mortgage or vehicle loans, home improvement receipts, rental agreements and leases, and sales receipts and warranty information for major appliances for as long as you own them.

You should always keep birth certificates, adoption papers, Social Security cards, valid passports, citizenship or residency papers, marriage licenses and divorce decrees, military records, wills, living wills, powers of attorney, retirement and pension plan information, family member death certificates and vital health records. The FTC urges that you keep them locked in a safe place.

Donations for the Shred Day 2026 event will benefit Greater Cincinnati Crime Stoppers by helping fund rewards that can get wanted criminals off the street.

In addition to Furniture Fair and Greater Cincinnati Crime Stoppers, the Shred Day 2026 event is also made possible with support from Walgreens, Royal Document Destruction and Shred-It.

Want an overstuffed barbecue sandwich and a giant bag of Beaver Nuggets? Ohioans no longer have to drive hours to get their fix.

Ohio's first-ever Buc-ee's officially opened Monday morning.

The new travel center is located just north of Dayton off I-75, in Huber Heights, about an hour and 15-minute drive from Cincinnati.

Watch: Get a sneak peek at the new Ohio location here

While it may look like a highway rest stop from the outside, the inside offers a different experience.

Spokesman and showman Randy Pauly showed what draws people from three states away.

"We dont want to be just another gas station. We are a family travel center, and we focus on the details," Pauly said.

Pauly said it's all about attention to detail, from the souvenir cups to the stuffed beaver toys and freshly made fudge, roast almonds and brisket.

"You'll notice the difference from that famous smile when you come through the front door, to the clean restrooms to the delicious brisket," Pauly said.

Fresh beef brisket and pork barbecue are carved and served all day long, in a giant "pit" in the center of the store.

When it is ready, employees yell out "fresh chopped brisket on the board" to alert visitors that it is time to grab a sandwich.

Don't expect roadside gas station prices, however:

Firefighter Brendan Cochran drove six hours from Georgia for Buc-ee's preview day for first responders, where active military, firefighters, police and EMTs received free sandwiches for their service.

Cochran said the slightly higher prices are worth it.

"The bang for your buck ... if you get a brisket sandwich somewhere else, thats a plate. You are going to spend $15 to $20 for a brisket sandwich anywhere else," Cochran said.

Police officer Jordan Alexander also attended the preview event and shared his thoughts on the theme-park atmosphere.

"It can be a little overwhelming there is a lot going on," he said. "But it can be a good experience."

So if you want to get a Buc-ee's fix or try it for the first time, you no longer need to plan a trip south. Just drive 70 miles up I-75 from Cincinnati, and you can see the excitement for yourself.

As always, don't waste your money.

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Forget about last year's $5 value meal battles.

Some fast-food restaurant chains now hope beefier options keep customers coming back for more.

But as consumers grow more selective, is more beef really the answer?

McDonald's launched its giant Big Arch burger in March. The burger is like two Quarter Pounders with cheese, with extra cheese and sauce on top.

"I like that it's got white cheddar cheese, as well as regular cheese," said customer Tyler Long.

Betting big on protein

McDonald's franchise owner Katie Blankenship said diners love the Big Arch's 53 grams of protein.

"Anyone looking for that protein and flavor, this is the sandwich for you," Blankenship said.

Other chains are upping their burger game as well. Burger King introduced an elevated Whopper, which comes in a box to protect the bun.

"We had Burger King. It was just perfect," said customer Glory Batubo. "The fries, the Whopper, was top notch."

These sandwiches are not cheap. We compared costs to see how these beefy burgers stack up in the Cincinnati area (prices vary by region):

Watch as customers give their take on the the new Big Arch and Whopper:

Mixing value with premium products

R.J. Hottovy, head of analytical research with Placer.ai, said limited-time offerings, like McDonald's Grinch Meals last year, often generate more traffic even compared to lower-cost value meals.

"People come in for that quick discount, but it doesn't generally drive all that much in terms of repeat visits," Hottovy said.

He said deep discounts, like a $5 bundle meal, can eat into profitability, making them less attractive to franchise owners.

"For some of these more innovative and exclusive limited time offers, particularly on the premium side, that can actually drive excitement and keep people coming back," he said.

According to Placer.ai data, the Big Arch generated a modest 2.2% year-over-year traffic boost during its launch week.

Hottovy said restaurants need to balance everyday value and limited offers to prove their burgers are worth a bigger bite of a customer's budget.

"Create excitement while doing competitive pricing for that middle income consumer," he said.

Sure, you will be paying more. But restaurant owner Blankenship said you are getting more bang for your dining buck.

So decide whether a bigger burger is worth the higher cost, so you dont waste your money.

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Just ahead of the Easter holiday travel weekend, gas prices have risen again nationwide, bringing the national average to $4.08 a gallon.

For drivers like Deon Borden, the sticker shock is hitting hard.

Its just crazy man, I mean like $5 for a gallon of gas?! I hope prices go down soon, Borden said.

But analysts like John Bovard with Incline Wealth Advisors predict relief isnt likely in the immediate future.

Bovard said the spike at the pump will start to impact your wallet far beyond just filling up at the pump.

So unfortunately, this could start to spread to multiple other areas of our everyday living, especially companies that rely on trucking and delivering to transport a lot of goods, Bovard said.

WATCH: Where you could see impacts of gas prices beyond the pump

Air travel:

(Air travel is) the most immediate one with jet fuel prices, and those going up, where we could see an immediate impact on the cost of flights and travel, Bovard said.

Airlines are also dealing with congestion from TSA staffing challenges due to the government shutdown, only adding further pressure to travel costs.

Delivery services:

Bovard said higher transportation costs are expected to trickle down to online shoppers soon.

Typically, what we will start to see is those prices, when youre checking out for shipping, the prices increase a little bit slightly, Bovard said.

Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart depend on shipping for daily operations. Their rising logistics expenses could soon show up in customer checkout totals.

Grocery stores:

The price hike could also make its way to grocery store shelves but the increase may take some time to show up.

The ripple effect typically takes between 60 and 90 days later to where well see potentially higher prices there. Because the simple fact is these companies, their profit margins are getting a little bit squeezed by the increase in fuel costs, and theyll eventually start to pass these on to customers, Bovard said.

Higher gas prices are also affecting rideshare and delivery drivers.

Bovard said this is called the "hidden inflation."

He said it's an example of inflation that affects daily living but isnt always reflected in official reporting.

When it comes to the stock market, Bovard said dips like this are common, happening almost every year. He advises consumers to keep their money invested because market rebounds often happen quickly.

"Dont panic. For right now, I do think this will be passing and transitory. I don't think this would be anything that would be lasting and ongoing," Bovard said.

However, in the short term, price increases could continue. Bovard said he doesn't believe prices have peaked yet.

I do expect there to be a little bit more of an increase. I dont think we have peaked," Bovard said. "But it all comes down to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz."

He said that once the blockade resolves, prices could drop quickly, but until then, short-term prices are expected to stay elevated. He said he estimates it could be up to about five months.

Do you have a story for Taylor? You can contact her here:

Even before prices peak, there are ways to lessen the impact:

As long as the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, high gas prices will continue to ripple through the economy from airfares and shipping costs to groceries.

Bovard said households should plan ahead, watch for creeping costs across multiple sectors and take steps now to protect their budgets.

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Thinking of selling your home in 2026? You may want to list it this month if you want to get top dollar and possibly even a bidding war for it.

Rich and Heidi Mallory have been wanting to sell their condo and buy a new home, but that means giving up their current 3% rate.

"We've had this place 25 years, so the mortgage we've had on this place is quite a bit lower than where we are looking to buy now," Heidi Mallory said.

With mortgage rates falling in the past year from 7% to 6% (and briefly falling to 5.5% earlier this year), they decided it was finally time to make their move.

"The rates aren't extremely low right now, but they are lower than they were," Rich Mallory said.

WATCH as real estate experts show when to list your home for sale:

Homebuyers looking to move are approaching the "best time to sell," according to a new report in Realtor.com

It says the week of April 12-18 will have the most ideal market conditions for sellers in 2026.

"At a national level, this week represents a balanced selection of market conditions that favor sellers," the report says. "By balancing prices, inventory, demand, and market pace, sellers are expected to have a better-than-average selling experience by taking advantage of the best week."

April typically brings out the most eager buyers, especially families who want to move during the summer, before the next school year begins.

It also often brings competing offers, which result in a higher sale price.

"Homes during this week have historically reached prices 1.3% higher than the average week throughout the year, and are typically 6.6% higher than the start of the year," the report says.

Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, says don't worry about timing mortgage rates, because no one can predict if they will head higher or lower soon.

"If you're in the market and you found a home that's a good fit, I think it makes sense to move forward," Hale said.

Plus, buyers can always refinance in a year if rates drop a point.

Realtor.com says the best time to make a purchase is in October, after the spring and summer rush.

Competition from other buyers is much lower because children are back in school, and few people want to move during the Christmas holiday season.

Hale said prices tend to fall as we get into the winter months, but if you wait beyond October, you'll most likely have fewer homes to choose from.

"If you're in the market and you found a home that's a good fit, I think it makes sense to move forward," Hale said.

Rich and Heidi Malloy said they're happy rates have dropped a bit from two years ago, so they can finally sell their condo.

"We're sitting pretty and glad we made the decision at this time," Heidi Mallory said.

So consider selling this spring, so you don't waste your money.

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If youre rushing to grab your Easter dinner essentials, dont stress.

Sometimes, waiting until the last minute can bring the best discounts. Between holiday markdowns and bonus fuel rewards, this week is packed with ways to save.

Here are the best deals we found at Kroger, Aldi, Walmart, Meijer and Target ahead of the holiday.

Easter grocery savings:

Kroger's Spring Fuel Weekend Events:

Stack grocery savings with fuel point bonuses to cut costs both at the store and at the pump.

WATCH: Here's how to save on Easter staples ahead of the weekend

Do you have a story for Taylor? You can contact her here:

Consider skipping candy until the day after Easter. Many sweets will be marked down up to 70% after the holiday is over.

Instead, stock up next week and avoid paying full price. That way, you don't waste your money.

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A popular, decades-old store at Over-the-Rhine's Findlay Market has expanded into a new neighborhood this time with sit-down dining.

Dean's Mediterranean Imports, located at 108 W Elder St. in OTR, recently held the grand opening for Dean's Mediterranean Table, located at 4024 Hamilton Avenue in Northside.

Dean's is owned and operated by Kate Zaidan, who took over the Findlay Market store from her father, Dean, in 2014. Dean Zaidan first opened Dean's Imports at Findlay Market in the 1970s after emigrating from Beirut, Lebanon.

Katie Zaidan told WCPO 9 that getting to build upon the store her father built and expand it into a new concept has been one of the most gratifying parts of the process.

"It's a huge deal," Zaidan said. " ... I grew up in the store. I have memories of, like, sleeping in the back on big bags of lentils, and you know, drawing pictures for the windows and stuff. So it's very much home for me, but it was also, you know, I wanted to put my own spin on things."

Those who love and frequent Dean's Imports know the grocery store is packed to the brim with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern goods and foods, and Zaidan said the space at Table allows her to modernize and do more. She also said Table allows her to hold cooking classes and host educational sessions.

"(The) number one comment I would get from our customers and people in the store is like, 'Oh my gosh, all of these ingredients are so cool, but I just have no idea how to use them,'" Zaidan said. "And so I had to start doing cooking classes for that reason ... because we do carry, I think, some of the best ingredients in the world. But if you don't know how to use them, they're just items on a shelf."

Inside Table, guests can expect several seating options, including a large round booth that anchors the front of the restaurant. Zaidan said there are 25 seats indoors as well as 25 outdoor seats that will be added in the future. The restaurant also includes its own grocery area, with items such as chutneys and curry pastes, tinned fish, olive oils, freshly prepared hummus and much more.

Zaidan said Table's menu also builds off of the menu offered from the kitchen at the back of Dean's Imports.

"It's similar to our menu at Dean's, but definitely elevated," Zaidan said.

Zaidan said a lot of the recipes are derived from her family's recipes that she learned from her father and grandmother while growing up. On top of that, she said Table's chef, Alex Boland, has crafted beautiful plates that showcase Lebanese food's bright colors and accoutrements.

She said a standout on the menu is the mezze options, which are small plates that work best when they're served together, and a nice way to eat around the menu. She also said in the few weeks of business they've already had fan favorites that have become staples of the menu, such as their grilled dates.

For those wanting something lighter, Zaidan said she's thrilled to be able to bring Turkish and Yemeni coffee to the Cincinnati area.

She said their Turkish coffee is not overly sweet but a strong demitasse coffee that's perfect with sweets. Yemeni coffee dates back millennia, and Zaidan said it separates itself with its beans, roast and spices, with notes of ginger, cinnamon, cardamom and others.

Zaidan said she had a customer come in, order a coffee and pastry and sit with a book in the cafe, and that's the epitome of what she was trying to do with Dean's Mediterranean Table. She said Table has become sort of a one-stop shop for all things, whether that be coming in for a meal, a cup of coffee and a pastry or stopping in for some groceries.

At the end of the day, Zaidan said she wanted to create a space that was accessible to the community and welcoming to all.

"You know, that was kind of the genius of my dad's store that I really love is that we have spices that we sell for 50 cents, and we have a balsamic vinegar that's $235," Zaidan said. "So I sort of wanted to ... just make a place that anybody can feel at home in."

Dean's Mediterranean Table is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can also check out Dean's Mediterranean Imports at Findlay Market from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

You can click here to follow along with the grocery store and restaurant.

Drivers were already feeling the pinch when the national gas average reached more than $4 per gallon on Tuesday.

"Almost $60 to fill up my tank," said driver Dorian Spence. "I mean, life was already hard. Gas prices got to come down."

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is up a dollar since last month, according to AAA.

From apps to loyalty points, to changing driving habits, consumers are willing to try just about anything for some relief at the pump.

Luckily for many drivers, shopping around for a gas rewards card may be the best option for quick and easy savings.

Watch as experts run down the best credit cards to save on gas:

Best gas credit cards

The personal finance website WalletHub recently released its best gas credit cards for April.

Writer and analyst Chip Lupo said with the right card, some drivers can save 5% to 6%, which can add up to hundreds of dollars.

"It is a lot easier than retraining yourself to drive slower or turn the air conditioner off. Or driving across town trying to find a gas station thats two or three cents cheaper," Lupo said.

WalletHubs picks for gas credit cards include:

Ted Rossman, a senior industry analyst with Bankrate, recommends credit cards offered by warehouse clubs for greater gas savings.

"The Sam's Club Mastercard is 5% on gas. The Costco card is 4% back at most gas stations. It's 5% at their own branded stations," he said.

How to choose a gas rewards card

When choosing a gas rewards card thats right for you, Rossman prefers a percentage discount over a cents-per-gallon discount.

"That's less and less valuable these days. What is really valuable is the percentage. Like if you can get 5% back on gas, that's meaningful," he said.

However, if you regularly fill up at the same gas station, a station-affiliated card could be the right move.

"The biggest drawback is that store credit cards tend to have much higher interest rates than regular rewards cards, sometimes upwards of 30% plus," Lupo said. "So you have to be careful there."

When choosing a gas credit card, be aware of spending caps, annual fees and interest rates. And remember, rewards wont help if a user carries a balance.

"Then any rewards that you've earned are going to be canceled out by the interest rates, plus you'll have extra interest charges on top of your balance," Lupo said.

More ways to save on gas

Rossman recommends stacking credit card rewards with loyalty programs whenever possible.

"A lot of supermarket chains have grocery rewards that can give you money off at the gas station. So that might be a way to double dip," Rossman said.

Spence leans on grocery fuel points to help offset rising prices. But even that can feel like fighting a losing battle.

"Even grocery prices are going up. It's just a vicious cycle at this point," Spence said.

If youre paying for gas with cash or debit, or not earning cash back for your gas purchases, finding a new gas credit card can help put money back in your pocket.

The best cards reward you for gas purchases, as well as other spending categories, so you dont waste your money.

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Three chefs in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas have been named finalists in the 2026 James Beard Awards.

The annual awards recognize the best of the best in the restaurant industry, honoring regional best chefs, best bar professionals, new restaurants and more.

Sarah Dworak and Jeffery Harris have been named finalists in the "Best Chef: Great Lakes" category, which showcases chefs in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. David Willocks was named a finalist in the "Best Chef: Southeast" category, which includes Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia.

Harris had previously been honored by the James Beard Awards, being named a semifinalist for the same category in 2024 and a nominee for "Best New Restaurant" in 2023.

Nolia, located in Over-the-Rhine at the corner of Clay and 14th streets, offers Harris' take on classic Southern flavors and dishes inspired by his upbringing in New Orleans. The restaurant's menu changes seasonally, with recent options including goat gnocchi with mustard greens and sweet potatoes and skillet cornbread, to name a few.

WATCH: WCPO sat down and talked with Harris about Nolia

The restaurant celebrated Harris' finalist honor on social media, saying, "This incredible honor is a testament to the dedication, passion and flavor Jeff puts into every single dish, bringing the heart of New Orleans to the soul of Cincinnati."

Dworak, who was a first-time semifinalist and now a first-time finalist, owns and operates Sudova, an Eastern European dining spot that opened on Court Street in downtown Cincinnati in 2024. Dworak told us Sudova celebrates her heritage, offering Eastern European staples like cod pelmeni, latkes, rye varenyky and more.

"We are thrilled to announce that we are James Beard 2026 finalists," the restaurant wrote on social media. " ... Excited does not even begin to describe the feeling. Thank you to everyone who has dined with us, shared stories and supported us."

Willocks is also a first-time semifinalist and finalist. The chef owns and operates The Baker's Table in Newport with his wife, Wendy Braun. A more unique fine dining experience, The Baker's Table offers a six-course tasting menu that rotates each month. The restaurant prides itself on using local and regional farmers and producers for produce, meat, grains and more.

The Baker's Table also posted to social media, celebrating the finalist honor and congratulating both Sudova and Nolia.

Dworak, Harris and Willocks were three of five total semifinalists named from the Tri-State.

Hideki Harada, who owns Kiki, an izakaya and sushi bar in Clifton's Gaslight district, was also named a semifinalist for "Best Chef: Great Lakes." Harada also received that honor in 2023.

Mike Stankovich was also recognized as a semifinalist for "Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service." Stankovich runs Longfellow, a bar located a block away from Nolia at the corner of Clay and 13th streets in OTR. Stankovich was also a nominee for the same category in last year's James Beard Awards.

The 2026 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Ceremony will be held on Monday, June 15, in Chicago.

A Canadian-based transportation company is laying off 149 employees, the majority of them at its Butler County location.

Day & Ross USA, which is based in New Brunswick, will cut 100 jobs from its site at 3560 Symmes Road in Hamilton, effective May 30, the company said in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, or WARN, filed with the state last Wednesday.

At the Butler County facility, the majority of the layoffs will affect drivers (54) and dock workers (36). The remaining positions affected are dispatchers and dock leads (two each), plus administrative assistant, driver manager, inbound dock manager, operations coordinator, operations supervisor and senior operations manager (one each).

Thirty-two layoffs will come from the companys facility in Livonia, Michigan, while the remaining cuts will be carried out in Indiana (6), Kentucky (6), Tennessee (3) and West Virginia (2), according to the WARN notice.

Day & Ross started in 1950 and was bought by McCain Foods in 1966. It is now owned entirely by McCain, the worlds largest manufacturer of frozen french fries and potato products.

The company opened its Symmes Road location in 2000 and hired workers who had lost their jobs when the previous company there, Dedicated Logistics Inc., shut down after General Motors chose a different shipping company.

Day & Ross has no union, the company said in the notice. Employees who are laid off will not be able to move into other jobs at the company and will not receive severance pay, it said.

The company said it will provide information on how employees can access unemployment insurance benefits and available services, including job placement assistance, retraining programs or counseling.

Asked in the WARN form what actions the company took to mitigate the impact of the employment loss, Day & Ross said, Contract negotiation with our customer over calendar year 2025 while customer took business out to bid and New contract ultimately awarded elsewhere impacting our current workforce.

Think you would never fall for a bogus phone call? One victim is now warning about how easy it is to be taken in by an impersonator call.

Lynn, an Ohio woman who asked that we not reveal her full name, said she received an urgent phone call from a number that showed up on caller ID as the local sheriff's office.

"Immediately, I thought something maybe was wrong, like something happened to my husband or my son," Lynn said.

The caller told Lynn she missed jury duty, and there was a warrant for her arrest.

Lynn thought the call was a joke, but every time she questioned the caller, she was threatened with fines and arrest.

"Every five minutes he came back on the phone and made sure I was there," she said.

Lynn followed instructions sent to her via text message, a telltale sign of a scam.

"Over text they sent me the copy of the warrant. It had my name on it. They told me I needed to withdraw $9,100," Lynn said.

She withdrew the money and, according to the instructions, deposited it into a local Bitcoin ATM, losing over $9,000 in an instant.

Watch as a woman shows how she ended up losing thousands to an impersonator call:

"They even said, 'this does look like a scam.' They brought it up and kept manipulating my mind," Lynn said. "I was so upset, I wasn't thinking clearly."

Protect yourself from impersonation scams

Ryan Lippe, a consumer educator with the Ohio Attorney General's Office, said impostor scams are the most reported type of fraud by volume.

"People posing as Social Security, people posing as Medicare, people posing as the IRS," Lippe said.

These schemes often start with a phone call, text or email, with the goal of convincing the victim to send money right away.

The most telling red flag: Urgency.

"If they're giving you 45 minutes to come up with $2,100, that is a tactic they use to catch you flat-footed," Lippe said. "That's a tactic they use to put that pressure on you, to put that lock on you, so they have your attention."

The Better Business Bureau advises anyone who thinks they are dealing with an impostor to follow these steps:

The organization recommends calling the person or company on another line, never responding directly to a call, text or email.

And remember, impostor scams occur when a scammer pretends to be a trustworthy organization or agency, such as law enforcement.

"They put the sergeant on. They used a lot of lingo that you would expect from lawyers, or police. It sounded very official," Lynn said.

If you already sent money to potential scammers, Lippe said contact your bank and the wire transfer service immediately.

"Time is of the essence to be able to try to save any part of those funds that you've sent through crypto, gift card, MoneyGram, Western Union, things like that," Lippe said.

Lynn is sharing her story with the hope she can help others avoid a huge financial loss.

"I just want other people to know to go with your gut," Lynn said. "I just knew something was not right."

Take her advice, so you don't waste your money.

________________________________

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Seventeen months after the evictions began, Frischs restaurant properties are again poised for big changes.

A Florida landlord is unloading the dormant real estate to buyers who have yet to reveal definitive plans for them. And that is triggering speculation about what lies ahead for these former neighborhood anchors.

In the 50s and 60s, this place was just booming, said Scott Sayre, whose Advance Dentistry practice flourished on Wooster Pike as the Frischs Mainliner declined in the last 40 years. Fairfax has done some nicer things in this area and its just kind of sad to see the building sit here without anybody doing anything.

Watch: What will happen to the now-dormant Frisch's locations across the Tri-State

Sayre was encouraged to learn a Lexington developer that specializes in redeveloping retail properties bought 11 former Frischs locations in the last five months, six of them in Greater Cincinnati.

Greer Companies, once the largest franchise operator of Cheddars Scratch Kitchen restaurants, did not respond to calls seeking comment for this story. It has redeveloped more than 100 retail properties by attracting users like Starbucks, Shoneys, Taco Bell, Burger Fi and Fazolis, according to its website.

With that kind of background even if they decide to hold it and sell it to somebody else, theyll be a driving force, Sayre said. Weve got a lot of fast food around. But we dont have anything where you could come here at night, have a dinner, bring the family.

Greer Companies isnt the only local buyer of empty Frischs locations.

Middletown entrepreneur Brett Oakley bought the Germantown Road Frischs location in January but hasnt decided what to do with it.

In Bethel, a corporate affiliate of Mt. Orabs Mi Camino Real restaurant purchased a former Frischs location at 551 West Plane Street.

The WCPO 9 I-Team tried to reach the buyers of all 13 properties. All either failed to respond or declined to identify future plans for the real estate.

One thing is clear: The sales will continue.

According to local real estate records, two dozen empty Frischs locations are still owned by NNN REIT Inc. Thats a real estate investment trust that filed dozens of eviction cases against Frischs in 2024, then signed a deal with a Michigan Big Boy chain to bring its Dollys concept to town.

As WCPO has previously reported, Dollys never got close to its stated goal of more than 50 Southwest Ohio locations before folding in September. By that time, NNN REIT was in active negotiations with other potential buyers.

The companys annual report said it sold 67 vacant properties in 2025. CEO Stephen Horn told investors last month the vast majority of those sales were Frischs locations.

The biggest buyer, Greer Companies, owns the Mainliner site and a Lawrenceburg property through a corporate affiliate, Olowalu Land Company LLC. It also owns four Northern Kentucky locations in Florence, Fort Wright, Independence and Cold Spring.

The companys president told the Lexington Herald Leader that he was talking to a Frischs franchise owner about leasing "one or more" properties for a Big Boy restaurant outside of Lexington.

And it turns out that a rendering on display at the Kyles Lane Frischs in Fort Wright shows that location is moving to a Greer-owned property on Madison Pike at Orphanage Road. Frischs declined to comment on the relocation, but employees said it will happen by July.

The rendering also shows a new look for the fresh 3L Frischs, one that de-emphasizes the Big Boy logo and recasts the Frischs name in a different font style. They call it the 3L Frischs because Madison Pike, or Kentucky Route 17, connected the horse racing cities of Louisville, Lexington and Latonia in the early 20th century.

The Kyles Lane Frischs is operated by Cheryl White, one of two Frischs managers who bought multiple locations and future development rights of the Frischs Big Boy brand, according to a November 2024 press release. White did not respond to an email seeking comment.

When the dust settled after the 2024 evictions, Frisch's had 31 locations including 11 in Greater Cincinnati. The Kyles Lane store was among them.

Real estate records show that the store got a new landlord in September, when Guardian Savings Bank sold the land and building to 20 Kyles Lane LLC. It isnt clear whether the ownership change was a factor in the restaurants relocation.

But longtime Frischs customer Janie Van Winkle was happy to learn that her current favorite Frischs found a long-term home nearby.

Our local Frischs closed, and this is the closest one we have, said Van Winkle, who lives in Aurora but drives regularly to Kyles Lane for lunch. Orphanage road is a little big further drive, but thats OK. Ill still go for my fish sandwich.

In the meantime, Van Winkle asked WCPO to pass along a message to Greer Companies. Shed like Frischs to return to the Eads Parkway location that a Greer corporate affiliate purchased for $1.75 million in October.

Put a bug in their ear, Van Winkle said. In high school, a lot of the kids would go to (the Lawrenceburg) Frischs. It would be the main place that they would hang out. So, it has a lot of memories."

With Easter just a hop away, families are feeling the pinch of rising prices on everything from holiday hams to budget-busting chocolate bunnies.

In the governments most recent inflation report, candy prices, including chocolate, were up nearly 12% compared to last year thanks to cocoa shortages and price hikes.

"Chocolate prices are very high right now, and it's one of those things thats just out of our control," said Kelly Schneider, third-generation owner of Schneider's Sweet Shop in Bellevue, Kentucky.

She said the shop, founded in 1939, refuses to sacrifice quality, which can result in the occasional price hike.

"We still use the same chocolate no matter what," Schneider said. "Unfortunately, sometimes we do have to raise the prices a little bit, but you know that youre getting that same quality."

There are still plenty of ways to lower costs, and enjoy Easter treats on budget.

Watch to learn how to save on baskets and dinner this Easter:

Chocolate and candy savings

Schneider sells everything from premade Easter baskets to cream eggs for $2.35 each. Solid chocolate rabbits range from $4.69 for a 2 ounce bunny, to $16.99 for a 15-ounce.

To save, she suggests customers mix and match to fill multiple baskets.

"You can pick everyone's favorites. You can grab some malted milk eggs, Easter eggs, little chocolate bunnies, so we have everything you need ready to go for your Easter baskets," Schneider said.

Stephanie Carls of RetailMeNot advises shoppers not to be tempted by expensive treats placed in high-traffic areas of the grocery store.

"Seasonal candy altogether is still one of the biggest impulse purchases in retail," Carls said.

She suggests mixing chocolates with less expensive sweet candies like Peeps and jelly beans.

Finally, see if a local candy store can give you a better price if you buy more.

"The more you buy the cheaper it can get," Schneider said referring to homemade cream eggs. "If you buy a dozen, youre going to get one free."

Save on ham

In the inflation report, Easter hams cost 4.2% more compared to February 2025. To save, Carls suggests buying your ham as soon as possible.

"Grocery stores they do start promoting Easter meal staples about one to two weeks before the holiday," Carls said. "Watching those grocery ads during that window is going to be one of the best ways to catch that deal."

When choosing a ham, pay attention to the different cuts. A rump or sirloin tends to be more flavorful, according to Southern Living, but also more expensive.

The shank is considered a budget-friendly option compared to pre-cooked, spiral-sliced hams that dont require fussing with a carving knife.

Whichever cut you choose, know how many mouths youre feeding. Dont overbuy and overspend.

As a rule of thumb:

Save money on Easter baskets

For Easter baskets, think about practical fillers like art supplies and healthy snacks.

"You have plush animals, even beauty products, and other small gifts that can go inside those baskets," Carls said.

More ways to save, according to the blog Sunny Sweet Days:

"One standout item, maybe a few smaller treats," Carls said. "Thats still going to make the basket feel full as well as fun."

Simple ways to celebrate Easter on a budget, so you dont waste your money.

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When one expense goes up, something else in the budget has to come down. But cutting your grocery bill does not mean you have to sacrifice.

There are big savings to be found at local grocery stores this week, with many of them centered around Easter gatherings.

From brunch to dinner and even Easter basket extras, there are multiple ways to save if you know where to look.

WATCH: Where to find savings on staple Easter dishes and more

Walmart is offering two holiday bundles designed to feed a group without overspending. Both meals come in at under $5 per person.

The Easter dinner bundle serves eight people and includes:

The Easter brunch bundle serves eight people and includes:

Hams are a centerpiece for many Easter tables and this week, theyre marked down at several retailers:

Aldi is discounting multiple Easter dinner sides and desserts, including:

Holiday decor and basket fillers are discounted this week at Meijer:

Do you have a story for Taylor? You can contact her here:

Kroger is combining seasonal product discounts with ways to save at the pump:

Spring refresh sale:

Spring fuel event:

Maximize savings by pairing sale prices with digital coupons and taking advantage of fuel rewards.

Follow John:

Follow Taylor:

For more consumer news and money saving advice, go to www.dontwasteyourmoney.com