2025 Acura MDX: Stylish and Functional SUV

 

The 2026 Acura MDX remains popular among midsize SUV drivers, thanks to its amenities and comfortable interior. 

The MDX is a three-row SUV more premium than luxury, and has been Acura's best seller for a few years. 

The MDX drives nicely, is well appointed, attractive and even offers an enthusiast-oriented Type S performance trim level that’s unusual in the category.

The MDX got rid of the awful touchpad-based infotainment interface in favor of a traditional touchscreen.

Fuel economy is rated at 17 mpg city, 21 highway. 

Pricing starts at around $52,000 and goes to around $76,000.

For a midsize SUV with style and solid driving dynamics, the MDX is worth a look. 

Worn Treads Can Lead to Unsafe Braking

 

Automotive equipment retailer Tire Rack released a new test video revealing how significantly tire tread depths, especially on severely worn or at-the-legal-limit tread tires, affect wet braking performance. Braking distances soared, in one example doubling the wet braking distance of new tires.   In the new  “How Tire Tread Depth Affects Wet Stopping Distance” test video Tire Rack’s TJ Campbell, tire information and testing manager, and Brent Rollins, assistant tire information and testing manager, set out to update a popular and helpful test first done by Tire Rack in 2007.    Like the original, they used a sedan with standard touring all-season tires and a pickup truck with highway all-season tires. Tests were on a straight road with 1 mm of water, simulating surface water conditions during a heavy downpour, and they recorded the stopping distances of brand new, severely worn, and at the legal limit tires. The tread depths were 11/32 to 12/32, 4/32, and 2/32 of an inch, respectively.

Using a sedan and pickup Tire Rack tested the wet braking performance of brand new, severely worn, and at the legal limit tread depth tires. The sedan's (above) the braking distance nearly doubled on at the legal limit tires.

Most alarming were the speeds each vehicle with at the legal limit tires (2/32 of an inch tread depth) recorded as they passed the point where the brand-new tires came to a halt. The sedan blew by the new tire stopping point at 50 mph, while the pickup passed at 36 mph. In any panic stop situation this likely would result in significant rear end collision damage and potential occupant injuries.   New tires have deep grooves that channel water through the tire’s footprint to provide traction. With severely worn and at the legal limit tires the test paints a clear picture. “Simply put, if the ground is wet and you’re hoping to come to a stop, the more tread you have on your tires, the better,” said Rollins.   Obviously, no one can drive on brand-new tires all the time because tires wear. But drivers should get years of safe use providing they follow routine maintenance like tire rotations and proper inflation levels, and while obvious it is helpful to remember wet braking distances increase as tires wear out.   So when is the right time to replace your tires? “We recommend replacing tires when you reach 4/32 of an inch of remaining tread depth, the distance between the edge of an inverted quarter and the top of President Washington’s head,” said Campbell. “This is like the traditional penny test, except the penny test measures the absolute legal limit, or 2/32 of an inch. Best to go with the quarter test because as our test shows the bare minimum tread depth in a panic stop means the driver and occupants are along for the ride, and a scary ride at that.”

While tread wear is noticeable among brand new, severely worn, and at the legal limit tires, always measure the tread depth. Tire Rack recommends replacing at 4/32 of an inch of remaining tread, the distance between the edge of an inverted quarter and the top of President Washington’s head. The traditional penny test measures the absolute minimum legal limit tread depth.

USA Set to Lose Billions in Tourism Revenue

 

In May, the World Travel & Tourism Council said in a report that the United States was the only country out of all 184 economies surveyed that was projected to have a decline in international travel and tourism spending in 2025 compared to 2024 – a decline they estimate could mean a loss of $12.5 billion in spending if it holds throughout the year. Without getting into the recent administration and policy changes that may be factoring into current travel trends, there is little dispute that a “significant decline” in international tourism in the U.S. could have serious financial implications for the country’s economy, with a trickle-down effect that may greatly impact businesses, consumers and communities.

How much decline is “significant”? Inbound travel to the U.S. is a current economic priority of the U.S. Department of Commerce due to the vital impact it has on the economy. The country still hasn’t rebounded to its pre-pandemic numbers of inbound arrivals – last year, the U.S. had 7 million fewer international visitors than it did in 2019. Although estimates vary on what exactly the impact will look like, organizations are touting the same sentiment: The decline we are observing is not negligible. Tourism Economics is forecasting a loss of $9 billion in spending from a 9.4% decline in international arrivals to the U.S. this year – a stark contrast to their initial prediction in December of an 8.8% increase. Oxford Economics had also expected about a 9% increase in international arrivals at the start of the year, but now predicts a decline of 8.7% for 2025 with $8.5 billion in less spending compared to 2024 (their original expectation for 2025 was a 16% increase in spending). The U.S. Travel Association calculates that every 1% decline in international visitor spending equates to $1.8 billion in lost export revenue for the year. If the current travel trends continue, the association estimates that the U.S. will lose a total of $21 billion in travel-related exports this year.

Where does the money go? The majority of tourism spending in the U.S. actually occurs through domestic travel, but the economic impact of the average international traveler is much greater than the average domestic traveler. According to the U.S. Travel Association, international travelers inbound to the U.S. spend an average of “$4,000 per trip – eight times more than domestic travelers.” The tourism industry directly supported 6.5 million jobs and indirectly supported an additional 3.5 million jobs for the U.S. in 2023. With a total employment of 167.8 million across the country, roughly 6% of American jobs were supported by the travel industry in 2023. That same year, total tourism output came to $2.64 trillion , with tourism and travel making up 3.03% of U.S. GDP.

What and who could be impacted Jobs could be affected, of course. You’ve likely seen cheaper pricing on flights and hotel bookings this summer. International travel can impact decisions on trade deals,manufacturing plans , and other business decisions, making it an important indicator of the overall growth of a country. But when it comes to community impact, areas may feel the impact in different ways. For example, communities that border Canada often count on the extra foot traffic from our northern neighbors to help support local businesses. Compared to June 2024, Canadian arrivals were down 33% by vehicle and 22% by air – a trend that has continued for several months. The owner of a Vermont resort close to the border told a reporter: “About 50% of our traffic is Canadian, and 60% in the summer. There will almost certainly be a reduction in workforce if we don’t get this turned around.” Coastal states like North and South Carolina are often ranked as popular travel destinations and greatly rely on tourism – in Charleston, S.C., it drives 25% of the local economy. Areas like these are also at greater risk during hurricane season. As a CNR News article notes: “Tourism can provide a lifeline for local economies in the aftermath of natural disasters, with tourist dollars supporting small businesses, creating jobs and even funding repairs to infrastructure.” As with all trends, there is the question of how long the current ones will continue. As travelers choose other destinations and businesses choose other markets, where does that leave the U.S. in five years? According to Geoff Freeman, chief executive of the U.S. Travel Association, there is an “urgent need for a coordinated marketing strategy to shape more favorable perceptions of America before the current ones become ingrained.”

Virginia Highlands Festival Offers Celebration of SW Va., Family Fun

 

The 76th annual Virginia Highlands Festival is underway in Abingdon, and with over 200 individual events, the whole family will find something to enjoy. Attractions include the Antiques & Vintage Market, arts and crafts exhibitors, outdoor excursions and walking tours of historical landmarks. There will be sessions teaching about Appalachian food and history from experts, as well as a hot air balloon demonstration and music concerts for the whole family. The festival runs until Aug. 3.

https://www.vahighlandsfestival.com/

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander: Affordable SUV is Worth a Look

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander features a revised front fascia, added standard equipment, a newly tuned suspension and an upgraded Yamaha sound system. It all adds up to a decent package for an affordable three-row SUV. 

The Outlander has been known as one of the most affordable three-row SUVs available, and even with a price increase for 2025, it still offers a decent value, starting at around $31,000 and ranging to around $45,000. 

The updated styling and adjustments to the interior make this version one to consider. Standard on the Outlander now is a new 12.3-inch infotainment system with navigation, as are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control and blind spot warning.

Fuel economy is rated at 24 mpg city, 30 highway. 

For an affordable SUV, the Outlander is worthy of a look. 

Mitsubishi Mirage: Budget Friendly Transportation Option

 

If you're seeking budget friendly transportation, consider the Mitsubishi Mirage. This subcompact, which is still available on select dealer lots as a 2024 model (there is no 2025 model) comes as a four-door hatchback or G4 sedan. 

The powerplant is 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that makes 78 horsepower and is linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission.  As the old-line subcompact car category has dwindled significantly in recent years, there is still a market for those seeking inexpensive, good-on-gas transportation. 

The Mirage includes two years of limited free maintenance, including oil and filter changes and tire rotations, which is the case for all new Mitsubishi models. LE trims have extra standard features, including rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and a driver-seat armrest. 

Overall, standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, automatic climate control, automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. 

Options include LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, automatic high-beam headlights, heated front seats, push-button start and lane departure warning.

The key selling points of the Mirage are its affordability and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

Fuel economy is another strongsuit. EPA figures rate the Mirage at 36 mpg city, 43 highway. 

But keep in mind you won't win any drag races; the engine lacks power and is loud. Along with a noisy ride, you'll notice low-end quality materials on the interior. 

But it's also a subcompact, so getting in and out of tight spaces is easy. 

Mitsubishi hasn't always been known for high quality vehicles. But with the warranty giving some peace of mind, and for the low price tag and operating costs, it might be worth a look if you're considering a budget friendly ride. 

The Mirage starts at around $17,000 and ranges to close to $20,000.

When to Hire a Public Adjuster for Your Insurance Claim

 

Filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with property damage or a car accident. While your insurance company assigns an adjuster to evaluate your claim, these professionals work for the insurer—not for you. This is where a public adjuster can make all the difference.

A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents policyholders, not insurance companies. They work exclusively on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum settlement you're entitled to under your policy. Understanding when and why to hire one could save you thousands of dollars and significant stress.

What Does a Public Adjuster Do?

Public adjusters handle every aspect of your insurance claim from start to finish. They inspect your property damage, review your insurance policy, document losses and negotiate directly with your insurance company.

Unlike company adjusters who aim to minimize payouts, public adjusters focus on maximizing your settlement. They understand insurance policy language, know how to identify all covered damages and have experience negotiating with insurers.

For auto insurance claims, public adjusters can help with total loss valuations, diminished value claims, and ensuring all repair costs are properly covered. They're particularly valuable when dealing with classic cars, modified vehicles, or when you disagree with your insurer's damage assessment.

Key Benefits of Hiring a Public Adjuster

Expert Knowledge of Insurance Policies

Insurance policies contain complex language that can be difficult to interpret. Public adjusters understand these documents inside and out. They know which coverages apply to your situation and can identify benefits you might have missed.

Thorough Damage Assessment

Company adjusters often work quickly and may overlook certain damages. Public adjusters take time to conduct comprehensive inspections, ensuring nothing gets missed. They document everything with photos, measurements and detailed reports.

Professional Negotiation Skills

Negotiating with insurance companies requires expertise and persistence. Public adjusters know industry standards, local market rates and effective negotiation strategies. They handle all communication with your insurer, removing this burden from your shoulders.

Time and Stress Savings

Managing an insurance claim involves paperwork, phone calls, meetings and follow-ups. Public adjusters handle these tasks, allowing you to focus on getting your life back to normal.

When You Should Consider a Public Adjuster

Large or Complex Claims

For significant property damage or high-value auto claims, the potential increase in settlement often justifies the cost of hiring a public adjuster. Complex claims involving multiple types of damage benefit from professional expertise.

Claim Disputes

If your insurance company denies your claim or offers a settlement you believe is too low, a public adjuster can reassess the situation and present additional evidence to support your case.

Lack of Time or Experience

Not everyone has the time or knowledge to effectively manage an insurance claim. If you're uncomfortable negotiating or don't understand your policy, professional help makes sense.

Previous Bad Experiences

If you've had claims underpaid in the past or felt taken advantage of by insurance companies, a public adjuster ensures you have professional representation.

Understanding the Costs

Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of your final settlement, usually 10-15 percent for property claims and sometimes less for auto claims. While this might seem expensive, studies show that policyholders who use public adjusters often receive settlements 40-50 percent higher than those who handle claims themselves.

Consider this: if a public adjuster increases your settlement from $20,000 to $30,000 and charges 10%, you still net $27,000—$7,000 more than handling it yourself.

Making the Right Choice for Your Situation

Not every claim requires a public adjuster. Small, straightforward claims with cooperative insurers might not justify the cost. However, for significant losses, disputed claims or when you feel overwhelmed by the process, professional representation can be invaluable.

Public adjusters level the playing field between you and your insurance company. They ensure you receive fair treatment and maximum compensation for your covered losses. When dealing with property damage or auto claims, having an experienced advocate on your side can make the difference between financial recovery and financial hardship.

If you're facing a complex claim or feel your insurance company isn't treating you fairly, consider consulting with a licensed public adjuster. Most offer free initial consultations, allowing you to understand your options before making a commitment.

More information:

https://www.gapia.org/