Mouse Print*-- Here We Shrink Again - Fall 2026 - Part 1

Prices keep going up while product quantities keep going down. Here are half a dozen grocery items like coffee, candy, cheese, and more that have been recently downsized. We'll have more next week too. That story is in Mouse Print* this week.

See last week: Starbucks Sued Over Misleading Sugar-Free Claims

Medicare Open Enrollment Begins; Supplement vs. Advantage Plans

Medicare open enrollment is October 15 - December 7. Since Medicare only covers 80% of most costs, you may want more protection. A good supplement/medigap plan costs hundreds a month, pays the missing 20%, has no copays, and allows you to see any doctor that accepts Medicare. Drugs, eyecare and hearing are not included. A Part D drug plan is cheap but has a deductible. Alternatively, an Advantage plan by private insurers replaces Medicare, typically has a limited doctor network, can include dental/vision coverage,may have copays up the wazoo, often requires referrals, has high out-of-pocket maximums, and can deny some care. If you are really healthy, MrConsumer recommends a cheap or free Advantage plan with a broad network. For those less healthy or those who don't want to worry about medical expenses if sick, go with a supplement plan, preferably plan G. But, do your own research, starting here and see related stories in Consumer Quickies.

Updated daily

Have You Been Flocked?

There has been great controversy lately about cities and towns that use Flock cameras perched on lampposts that read license plates of cars passing by. Some worry about invasion of privacy, misuse of the information, unauthorized access to the data, and more. There is now a website called "Have I Been Flocked?" where you can check if your license plate has been searched for. Keep in mind, the database is incomplete and finding a listing doesn't mean you are under investigation.

NPR Investigation: Free Cosmetic Sample Leads to Thousands of Dollars of Charges

A major investigation by NPR reveals the shadowy world of a cosmetics company that lures shoppers in with a free skincare sample. After a sales pitch, victims get hit with thousands of dollars of unexpected charges and the cosmetics cannot be returned. Here is the print version of this story.

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Stop & Shop, Giant Food Supermarkets -- 10% Off!!!

Sherwin Williams - 40% Off Paints and Stains

Consumer Reports

Blood Tests You Need (and Don't Need)