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    <title>Consumer News for TriCities</title>
    <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/consumer/</link>
    <description></description>
    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>TriCities</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2008</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2008-08-28T22:33:00-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>Life&#45;Saving Blood Pressure Monitors</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/life_saving_blood_pressure_monitors/13358/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Blood pressure is a vital sign often checked once a year in a doctor&#8217;s office. But home monitoring can stave off serious complications like heart disease and stroke.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 22:33:00 EDT</pubDate>
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          <title>Coffee Maker Recall</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/coffee_maker_recall/13284/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
You could get an extra jolt with your morning cup of joe if you have one of the coffee makers on a recall list.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:13:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Shower Cleaners That Work</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/shower_cleaners_that_work/13252/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When it comes to cleaning your shower, there are lots of products to choose from. Spray cleaners, powdered cleaners, aerosol foam. All claim to get your shower sparkling clean.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2008 22:05:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Pepperoni Hot Pockets Recalled</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/pepperoni_hot_pockets_recalled/13067/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Nestle is recalling 12-pack cartons of Hot Pockets Pepperoni Pizza. The product might contain small pieces of hard red plastic and other foreign material, which pose a risk of serious injury to consumers.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:07:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Kingsport Officials Site 20% Spike In August Sales Tax Collections</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/kingsport_officials_site_20_spike_in_august_sales_tax_collections/13037/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The city of Kingsport is attributing growth in its commercial and retail sectors to a 20% jump in August sales tax collections.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 22 Aug 2008 07:25:00 EDT</pubDate>
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        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Road Smarts: Premium vs. Regular Gas</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/road_smarts_premium_vs_regular_gas/12707/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you&#8217;re using premium gas and thinking it&#8217;s better for your engine, Consumer Reports says you may be wasting your money. Most cars are designed to run on regular gas. So using premium doesn&#8217;t do anything except cost you about 20 cents more per gallon.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 22:05:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/road_smarts_premium_vs_regular_gas/12707/#When:02:05:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>BMW Recalling 200,000 Vehicles</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bmw_recalling_200000_vehicles/12672/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
 BMW AG is recalling 200,000 vehicles over concerns that the front passenger air bag may not deploy in a crash.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2008 22:52:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bmw_recalling_200000_vehicles/12672/#When:02:52:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NE TN Organization Sets the Table to Feed 2,500 Households</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ne_tn_organization_sets_the_table_to_feed_2500_households/12619/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency volunteers are boxing and bagging food and supplies for Wednesday&#8217;s commodity distributions. It begins at 9a.m. and runs until three&#8212;or until the food runs out at the Keystone Recreation Center in Johnson City and the National Guard locations in Erwin and Mountain City.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2008 07:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Natural Gas Car</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/natural_gas_car/12610/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Honda Civic GX NGV looks like any other Honda Civic, but it isn&#8217;t. It&#8217;s a natural-gas-powered car, currently sold in New York and California. Consumer Reports says there are environmental advantages to natural gas.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2008 21:52:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/natural_gas_car/12610/#When:01:52:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Protecting Your Computer</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/protecting_your_computer/12534/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There are dangerous hazards lurking online to infiltrate your computer. But help is on the way! Consumer Reports tested 10 Internet security software programs you have to pay for&#8212;like McAfee and Norton from Symantec&#8212;as well as software you can download free.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 09 Aug 2008 02:42:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/protecting_your_computer/12534/#When:06:42:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>TVA&#8217;s &#8220;Fuel Rate Adjustment&#8221; Could Hit Farmers Hard</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tvas_fuel_rate_adjustment_could_hit_farmers_hard/12475/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The proposed 10 to 20-percent increase could deliver the knockout punch to farmers reeling from drought and the skyrocketing cost of fuel, feed and fertilizer.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tvas_fuel_rate_adjustment_could_hit_farmers_hard/12475/#When:22:30:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>TVA Customers To See Big Rate Hike</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tva_customers_to_see_big_rate_hike/12444/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tennessee Valley Authority customers could be facing their biggest electric rate increase in decades this fall.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 06 Aug 2008 22:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tva_customers_to_see_big_rate_hike/12444/#When:02:15:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Faulty Tire Valve Stems Could Cause Blowouts</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/faulty_tire_valve_stems_could_cause_blowouts/12398/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As many as 30 million tires on the road are at risk of blowing out, causing a serious, even fatal accident. The problem? Potentially faulty tire valves. The valves have been recalled, but there are still plenty out there.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:43:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/faulty_tire_valve_stems_could_cause_blowouts/12398/#When:23:43:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Living Green part one</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/living_green_part_one/12339/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We are launching a new series on &#8220;Living Green.&#8221;  Meteorologist Mallory Nicholls will bring you weekly reports in this newscast.&nbsp; These reports will focus on how we can conserve energy, and save some cash in the process.&nbsp; Here, Mallory investigates the many shades of green when it comes to savings.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:18:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/living_green_part_one/12339/#When:14:18:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Plastic Baby Bottle Tests</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/plastic_baby_bottle_tests/12324/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Concerns are on the rise about the chemical bisphenol A, or BPA. It&#8217;s used to make a variety of food containers, including some plastic baby bottles. The National Institutes of Health issued a draft report this spring expressing concern about BPA&#8217;s health risks for infants and children. The latest laboratory research suggests it may affect the brain and the prostate and may cause other health problems.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 03 Aug 2008 22:46:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/plastic_baby_bottle_tests/12324/#When:02:46:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>One Gallon, One Week</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/local/consumer/consumer/article/one_gallon_one_week/12269/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
This week I tried all kinds of forms of transportation, at least as many as there are available in this area.&nbsp; Some were more financially beneficial than others.&nbsp; Do you think Garrett at O&#8217;Sully&#8217;s Scooter Shop actually let me take a ride?&nbsp; You&#8217;ll find out on News Channel 11 Wednesday at 6pm.&nbsp; And, how did I use that one gallon of gas I had to splurge?&nbsp; What would you do with just one gallon in your tank?&nbsp; All things to consider over the weekend as I decide if I really need to keep the roads hot as much as I do.&nbsp; Have a great weekend.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:19:18 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/local/consumer/consumer/article/one_gallon_one_week/12269/#When:13:19:18Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gas Prices Loosen Grips at the Pump</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gas_prices_loosen_grips_at_the_pump/12067/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There is steady traffic pouring into the Roadrunner Shell gas station on State of Franklin in Johnson City. Regular gas costs $3.79 per gallon and diesel prices cap off at $4.01. This is a sign of the trends across the United States.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2008 08:02:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gas_prices_loosen_grips_at_the_pump/12067/#When:12:02:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Smart Car: Gas&#45;Saving Solution?</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/smart_car_gas_saving_solution/11970/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In this era of high gas prices, the Smart ForTwo is creating quite a stir. It made its debut in the U.S. this spring, although it has been buzzing around Europe for 10 years. It&#8217;s made by Daimler Benz.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:08:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/smart_car_gas_saving_solution/11970/#When:01:08:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>SCC Gives Thumbs Up To Interim Appalachian Rate Increase</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/scc_gives_thumbs_up_to_interim_appalachian_rate_increase/11918/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The average customer will pay an additional eight-dollars per month.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:20:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/scc_gives_thumbs_up_to_interim_appalachian_rate_increase/11918/#When:11:20:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Auto Industry Troubles Force Cooper&#45;Standard to Layoff 30 in Hawkins County</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/state_report_cooper_standard_laying_off_30_in_hawkins_county/11841/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Cooper-Standard Automotive in Hawkins County, Tennessee laid off 30 employees after Ford Motor company cut back production of its new 2009 model pick-up trucks.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:36:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/state_report_cooper_standard_laying_off_30_in_hawkins_county/11841/#When:14:36:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Best Running Shoes</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/best_running_shoes/11756/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Nine men and women ran more than 1,200 miles to help Consumer Reports test running shoes. The tests covered all the big name brands, including Nike, New Balance, Asics, and Adidas, costing between $80 and $120. Also in the tests were shoes from Target called Champion for around $30.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/best_running_shoes/11756/#When:03:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Abingdon Mining Company Sold for $10 Billion</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/abingdon_mining_company_sold_for_10_billion/11705/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Alpha Natural Resources Inc. in Abingdon, Virginia was sold to Cleveland Cliffs, according to the AP.&nbsp; The new company will be called Cliffs Natural Resources.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/abingdon_mining_company_sold_for_10_billion/11705/#When:13:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Scoring Hard To Find Tickets</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/scoring_hard_to_find_tickets/11690/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Have you tried to buy tickets lately for a sporting event, concert, or play, only to get shut out? Or were you able to get tickets but you paid through the nose? Getting tickets to much-sought-after events for a good price has gotten harder than ever.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 22:50:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/scoring_hard_to_find_tickets/11690/#When:02:50:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Johnson City Lone Star Closes Abruptly</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/is_lone_star_closing_in_johnson_city/11657/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A sign on the door says Monday was the last day of business for the steakhouse and saloon in Johnson City.&nbsp;  
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:20:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/is_lone_star_closing_in_johnson_city/11657/#When:21:20:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Work To Restore Bristol&#8217;s Train Station Nearly Complete</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/work_to_restore_bristols_train_station_nearly_complete/11607/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Finalizing an arrangement with investors is all that prevents the Twin City&#8217;s historic train station from finally reopening, a member of the ownership group said Friday.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 07:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/work_to_restore_bristols_train_station_nearly_complete/11607/#When:11:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Maytag Reliability Problems</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/maytag_reliability_problems/11447/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
To watch Maytag&#8217;s commercials, you&#8217;d think the lonely repairman doesn&#8217;t have a thing to do. Maytag&#8217;s appliances are just so reliable. But Consumer Reports&#8217; latest research shows there appears to be plenty of work the Maytag repairman could be doing.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 13 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/maytag_reliability_problems/11447/#When:02:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Lawn Mower Recall</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/lawn_mower_recall/11537/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
American Honda Motor Corp. recalls over 20,000 walk-behind lawn mowers.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:26:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/lawn_mower_recall/11537/#When:02:26:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Refrigerator Money&#45;Savers</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/refrigerator_money_savers/11521/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Refrigerators typically get replaced after 14 years. If you need a new one, Consumer Reports says now is a good time to buy. Even basic refrigerators are coming with glass shelves and door shelves that can hold gallon milk jugs. And today&#8217;s refrigerators use a lot less energy&#8212;just half what they used in 1990.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:05:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/refrigerator_money_savers/11521/#When:02:05:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Nature Watch: White Clover Self Seeds; Be Careful When Trying To Remove It</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/nature_watch_white_clover_self_seeds_be_careful_when_trying_to_remove_it/11516/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
White clover grows abundantly in our yard; sometimes it is so prolific that when we step into the grass, we are greeted by a delectable fragrance.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:58:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/nature_watch_white_clover_self_seeds_be_careful_when_trying_to_remove_it/11516/#When:17:58:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>E&amp;H Professor Tells Of Guatemala Atrocities After Her Return</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/emory_henry_professors_return_to_describe_guatemalans_plight/11483/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Basic human rights are by no means a worldwide commodity. They come at a price &#8211; many times the ultimate price.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/emory_henry_professors_return_to_describe_guatemalans_plight/11483/#When:05:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>BMS Officials Roll Out Recent Economic Impact Numbers</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_race_complex_able_to_avoid_skid_on_rising_oil/11484/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The nation&#8217;s nightmarish oil dilemma won&#8217;t disappear any time soon, but it was hard to notice it Wednesday at Bristol Motor Speedway.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:13:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_race_complex_able_to_avoid_skid_on_rising_oil/11484/#When:05:13:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>First Arrest Of Golf Cart Driver Left Teens In A Bind</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/arrest_left_lost_teens_with_nowhere_to_go/11488/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The traffic stop on a rural road in Washington County, Va., split up a trio of young, out-of-town campers and left two disoriented juveniles without driver&#8217;s licenses to navigate their friend&#8217;s car late Monday.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:02:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/arrest_left_lost_teens_with_nowhere_to_go/11488/#When:05:02:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Fallout Still Felt From Last Year&#8217;s Herbicide Spray Incident</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/a_year_after_children_sprayed_with_herbicide_questions_linger/11481/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A year after some children at Miss Amy&#8217;s Child Care were sprayed accidentally with herbicide, at least one child is still suffering health effects from the incident.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/a_year_after_children_sprayed_with_herbicide_questions_linger/11481/#When:04:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Former Knox County Clerk Challenges Alexander For Senate Seat</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/padgett_i_classify_myself_as_a_problem_solver/11479/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Democrat Mike Padgett stretched out his arms, turned his palms upward and said, &#8220;This is not the America I grew up in &#8211; what&#8217;s happened?&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2008 00:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/padgett_i_classify_myself_as_a_problem_solver/11479/#When:04:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Convection Oven Bake&#45;Off</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/convection_oven_bake_off/11430/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Consumer Reports tested 64 electric, gas, and dual-fuel ranges. Several are convection ovens, which are heavily touted by manufacturers. They&#8217;re supposed to speed up roasting and make multi-rack baking more even. But they can also be pricey. Are they worth it?
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 08 Jul 2008 22:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/convection_oven_bake_off/11430/#When:02:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Fresh From The Farm</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fresh_from_the_farm/11405/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Why shop at a farmers&#8217; market?

a. The vendors are local, and that means what you buy is, too.

b. The food is fresh, just picked or baked.

c. You&#8217;ll find varieties you&#8217;ll never see in a supermarket.

d. In many cases, the produce is organic.

e. It&#8217;s convenient.

f. All of the above.

Read this story to find the answer.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:52:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fresh_from_the_farm/11405/#When:12:52:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Riding Out High Gas Prices</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/riding_out_high_gas_prices/11404/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Record gas prices have more people visiting Internet ride boards every day, experts say. The creators of Internet ride boards say the sites capitalize on one of the Web&#8217;s best characteristics: the ability to connect strangers who share similar interests or desires. In this case, that means sharing rides to save money.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:46:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/riding_out_high_gas_prices/11404/#When:12:46:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Tennessee Lottery Officials Issue Scam Warning</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tennessee_lottery_officials_issue_scam_warning/11390/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A scam warning From the Tennessee Lottery: an e-mail that suggests recipients are prize winners and asks for money to cover processing fees is a fake.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2008 22:20:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tennessee_lottery_officials_issue_scam_warning/11390/#When:02:20:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>WALLET WATCH: Sticker Shock at the Gas Pump</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/wallet_watch_sticker_shock_at_the_gas_pump/11360/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
This Independence Day weekend was not free from high gas prices. According to the AAA fuel gauge report, July 5th gas prices reached an all time high in Bristol, Johnson City and Kingsport. Tell us where are the high and low gas prices are around the Tri-Cities region. 


Before you hit the road, check out the Tricities.com Pump Patrol&#8230; keyword: &#8220;wallet watch.&#8221; 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/wallet_watch_sticker_shock_at_the_gas_pump/11360/#When:09:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>The Cause Is About PAWS</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/the_cause_is_about_paws/11346/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sometime early last month, a dog and her four newborn puppies were dumped at a garbage site on Radio Road in Castlewood, Va.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2008 01:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/the_cause_is_about_paws/11346/#When:05:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Reason&#8217;s For People Abandoning Their Pets Vary</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/reasons_for_people_abandoning_their_pets_vary/11347/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The list of excuses or rationales for why people abandon their pets is long.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2008 01:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/reasons_for_people_abandoning_their_pets_vary/11347/#When:05:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Construction On Controversial Coal Plant To Officially Begin Monday</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/construction_on_controversial_coal_plant_to_officially_begin_monday/11348/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Though Dominion Virginia Power officially began construction of a power plant here Monday, those opposed to the project say the $1.8 billion facility remains up in the air.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:46:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/construction_on_controversial_coal_plant_to_officially_begin_monday/11348/#When:04:46:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Young And Old Alike Celebrate Twin City&#8217;s Star&#45;Spangled Fourth Of July</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/young_and_old_alike_celebrate_twin_citys_star_spangled_fourth_of_july/11349/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Bristolians young and old came out for the Twin City&#8217;s Star-Spangled Fourth of July celebration on Saturday &#8211; and most said the festivities didn&#8217;t disappoint.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:32:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/young_and_old_alike_celebrate_twin_citys_star_spangled_fourth_of_july/11349/#When:04:32:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Witness: Rebel Ridge Kennel Owner Is First US Dog Importer Prosecuted</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/dog_import_prosecution_first_in_us_witness_says/11316/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A Blountville, Tenn., kennel owner&#8217;s trial is the first time a dog importer has been prosecuted in the United States, according to a California attorney who has followed the issue for several years.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/dog_import_prosecution_first_in_us_witness_says/11316/#When:17:00:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Fireworks Recall</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fireworks_recall/11319/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Some of the fireworks you purchased for your Impendence Day celebration may be on The Consumer Product Safety Commission&#8217;s recall list.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:21:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fireworks_recall/11319/#When:04:21:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Cabinet Organizers To The Rescue</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cabinet_organizers_to_the_rescue/11302/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Whether it&#8217;s getting your cupboards more organized, taking advantage of wasted cabinet corners, or easier access to your garbage, cabinet organizers are a great way to utilize space. Consumer Reports tested 27 different ones that can tackle those jobs.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2008 23:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/cabinet_organizers_to_the_rescue/11302/#When:03:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Twin City Gas Prices Vary, Depending On Location</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/twin_city_gas_prices_vary_depending_on_location/11267/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you want to save a few cents on Twin City gas prices this weekend, pull off of I-81 at Exit 7 instead of Exit 5.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:35:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/twin_city_gas_prices_vary_depending_on_location/11267/#When:16:35:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>How to Have a Blast With Fireworks</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/how_to_have_a_blast_with_fireworks/11257/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tennessee State Marshal Leslie Newman released a reminder on the importance of fireworks safety. The Center for Disease Control reports 11 people died from fireworks-related injuries in 2006.Your Tri-Cities News Source is LIVE at the Central Carter County Volunteer Fire Department Station on News Channel 11&#8217;s Morning Edition.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2008 05:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/how_to_have_a_blast_with_fireworks/11257/#When:09:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Experts: Alcohol&#45;Related Dangers Are Biggest Holiday Threat</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/alcohol_tops_fireworks_as_main_safety_concern_on_4th/11264/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Fireworks aren&#8217;t the biggest safety hazard during the Fourth of July holiday anymore &#8211; and they haven&#8217;t been for years.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/alcohol_tops_fireworks_as_main_safety_concern_on_4th/11264/#When:05:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Tri&#45;Cities Holiday Travel Projection and &#8220;Staycation&#8221; Alternatives</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tri_cities_holiday_travel_projection_and_staycation_alternatives/11215/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The countdown is on. We&#8217;re less than 48-hours away from the July 4th holiday. That means Tri-Cities travelers are already hitting the road for their vacation destinations. Your Tri-Cities News Source is LIVE in Johnson City with East Tennessee AAA experts to explain the holiday travel projections on News Channel 11&#8217;s Morning Edition.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tri_cities_holiday_travel_projection_and_staycation_alternatives/11215/#When:08:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>St. Paul, Va., Police Chief Ousted</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/st_paul_va_police_chief_fired/11214/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
ST. PAUL, Va.&#8212;With newly elected town council members now in office, the council voted at an organizational meeting Tuesday not to re-hire Police Chief Scott Brooks.


           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:42:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/st_paul_va_police_chief_fired/11214/#When:22:42:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Great Kitchen Fixes On The Cheap</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/great_kitchen_fixes_on_the_cheap/11208/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Kitchens are by far the most expensive rooms to renovate. And new cabinets are usually the priciest part of the job. A survey of readers finds they average more than $9,000 and can easily run much higher. But Consumer Reports has some money-saving advice to help you update your kitchen on the cheap.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2008 15:56:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/great_kitchen_fixes_on_the_cheap/11208/#When:19:56:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Two SW Virginia Towns Have Different Views Of Wal&#45;Mart</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/a_savior_to_some_the_devil_to_others/11142/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sixty miles away in Abingdon, Wal-Mart is the devil to many. In Grundy, Wal-Mart is considered the savior.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 01:15:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/a_savior_to_some_the_devil_to_others/11142/#When:05:15:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Exit 14 Traffic Improvements Might Create Other Problems</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/exit_14_traffic_improvements_might_create_other_problems/11144/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Correspondence between the Federal Highway Administration and the Virginia Department of Transportation confirms what many Abingdon residents are saying: A major shopping center at Exit 14 could pose a safety hazard.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 01:01:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/exit_14_traffic_improvements_might_create_other_problems/11144/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bristol, Va., Mayor Jim Rector Likely To Hold Post Again</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_va_mayor_jim_rector_likely_to_hold_post_again/11145/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Current Mayor Jim Rector is expected to retain the post when the City Council holds its annual reorganizational meeting on Tuesday morning.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 00:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_va_mayor_jim_rector_likely_to_hold_post_again/11145/#When:04:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Neighborhood Watches Move To Cyberspace In Washington County, Va.</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/neighborhood_watches_move_to_cyberspace_in_washington_county_va/11146/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Washington County, Va., Sheriff&#8217;s Office recently enhanced its crime-fighting efforts by extending Neighborhood Watches into cyberspace.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 00:32:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/neighborhood_watches_move_to_cyberspace_in_washington_county_va/11146/#When:04:32:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Hewlett&#45;Packard Fax Machine Recall</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/hewlett_packard_fax_machine_recall/11143/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Hewlett-Packard is recalling over 350,000 fax machines.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 22:24:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/hewlett_packard_fax_machine_recall/11143/#When:02:24:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>SW Virginia Projects Benefit From Federal Block Grants</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gov_kaines_office_announces_community_development_block_grants/11123/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Estimated to have a $28 million annual economic impact in the region, Heartwood: Southwest Virginia&#8217;s Artisan Gateway, which is to be built in Abingdon, Va., will receive a $1.2 million community development block grant.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/gov_kaines_office_announces_community_development_block_grants/11123/#When:05:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Officers To Have Greater Presence On Roads To Reduce Fatalities</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/troopers_launch_offensive_for_safety/11125/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Drivers beware.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:31:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/troopers_launch_offensive_for_safety/11125/#When:04:31:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Acetylene Torch Sets Off Fire In Two Trailers</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/acetylene_torch_ignites_fire_in_trailers/11090/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A man using an acetylene torch on Thursday says he accidentally started a fire that severely damaged two large trailers and their contents.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/acetylene_torch_ignites_fire_in_trailers/11090/#When:05:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Sen. Ron Ramsey To Lead State Republicans At Convention</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ramsey_to_lead_gop_group/11087/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tennessee delegates have unanimously elected Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville, to lead the GOP delegation at the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis-St. Paul.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/ramsey_to_lead_gop_group/11087/#When:04:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bluff City Must Hire Manager For Storm Water Program</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/officials_trying_to_fit_storm_water_solution_into_tight_city_budget/11094/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
City officials may hire a new public works supervisor at a time when they are looking to save money in next year&#8217;s budget by cutting an officer from the police force.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/officials_trying_to_fit_storm_water_solution_into_tight_city_budget/11094/#When:04:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Boucher Collected Thousands From Telecom PAC, Switched Phone Vote</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/maplight_executive_director_there_is_a_river_of_money_underlying_everything/11051/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Southwest Virginia Congressman Rick Boucher received $25,000 from telephone companies that he voted last week to legally protect under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/maplight_executive_director_there_is_a_river_of_money_underlying_everything/11051/#When:17:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Approval Of Power Plant Permits Clear Way For Construction</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/approval_of_power_plant_permits_clear_way_for_construction/11053/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia City Hybrid Energy Center will move swiftly toward construction, officials said Wednesday after the state Air Pollution Control Board approved permits for the 585-megawatt, coal-fired power plant.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 01:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/approval_of_power_plant_permits_clear_way_for_construction/11053/#When:05:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Chubby Checker To Headline 2008 Highlands Festival</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/highlands_fest_organizers_add_checker_youth_oriented_events_to_lineup/11046/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia Highlands Festival organizers hope several new events added to this year&#8217;s schedule will make the annual festival more appealing to teenagers.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/highlands_fest_organizers_add_checker_youth_oriented_events_to_lineup/11046/#When:04:44:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Air Board Members Are Listening Before Deciding On Power Plant Permits</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/air_board_hearing_draws_a_crowd/11013/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Local elected officials presented a united front to the state Air Pollution Control Board on Tuesday in favor of the 585-megawatt power plant planned for Wise County.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 01:47:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/air_board_hearing_draws_a_crowd/11013/#When:05:47:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>&#8216;Unleashed Dogs&#8217; Are Biggest Danger, Local Bicyclists Say</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/unleashed_dogs_listed_as_biggest_danger_to_bicyclists/11012/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When asked to name the biggest danger to bicyclists who travel local roads, Hal Boyd answered unequivocally.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 01:31:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/unleashed_dogs_listed_as_biggest_danger_to_bicyclists/11012/#When:05:31:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Ozone Action Day Alert</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/warning_issued_as_air_quality_in_area_unhealthy_today/11011/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Bristol Herald Courier and News Channel 11 team up to detail what the first ozone action day of this summer means for you.&nbsp; 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 01:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/warning_issued_as_air_quality_in_area_unhealthy_today/11011/#When:05:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bristol, Tenn., Tap Water Makes The Grade In Quality Report</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_tap_water_passes_check_up/11017/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The city&#8217;s tap water has passed its annual check-up.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_tap_water_passes_check_up/11017/#When:04:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Tomatoes Making A Comeback</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tomatoes_making_a_comeback/10775/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Good news for tomato lovers who like to eat out.&nbsp; Tomatoes are back on the menu at some of your favorite fast food eateries.&nbsp; 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:17:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tomatoes_making_a_comeback/10775/#When:21:17:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Boucher Proposes Fee To Pay For Carbon Capture Research</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fee_for_coal_fired_utility_customers_introduced_by_boucher/10689/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
U.S. Rep. Rick Boucher introduced federal legislation on Thursday that would add a fee for coal-fired utility customers to pay for research on carbon capture and storage technology.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fee_for_coal_fired_utility_customers_introduced_by_boucher/10689/#When:04:44:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Senior Citizen Expo Offers One&#45;Stop Networking</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/senior_citizens_expo_held_at_anderson_park/10656/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Senior citizens were able to make one stop Thursday morning to learn about a wide range of products and services they need.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:30:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/senior_citizens_expo_held_at_anderson_park/10656/#When:04:30:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Some Lawmakers Concerned About &#8220;Digital Switch&#8221; Converter Box Coupons</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/some_lawmakers_concerned_about_digital_switch_converter_box_coupons/10647/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
If you watch television with a TV set that&#8217;s not connected to cable or satellite, you probably already know the times are changing. Come February, all television stations, including Your Tri-cities News Source, will make the digital switch. That means people who use an antenna to tune in on analog TV have to buy a converter box.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:03:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/some_lawmakers_concerned_about_digital_switch_converter_box_coupons/10647/#When:22:03:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Washington County, Va., Agrees To 60/40 Rec Complex Partnership</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/washington_board_votes_in_favor_of_60_40_partnership_in_planned_recreation_/10578/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
&#8220;I think the county has to take care of its interest,&#8221; Supervisor Jack McCrady said. &#8220;If we&#8217;re going 60 percent we have to have 60 percent authority ownership.&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 01:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/washington_board_votes_in_favor_of_60_40_partnership_in_planned_recreation_/10578/#When:05:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bristol, Va., City Council Approves Intersection Designed By Residents</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_virginia_to_seek_more_public_input_into_future_street_projects/10577/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The city will solicit more public input into future street projects after residents played a key role in redesigning a busy intersection, City Manager Bill Dennison said Tuesday.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 01:12:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/bristol_virginia_to_seek_more_public_input_into_future_street_projects/10577/#When:05:12:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bristol, Va., Takes Action To Save Fuel And Money</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/skyrocketing_fuel_prices_prompt_city_to_curtail_some_vehicle_operations/10572/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Everything from police and fire vehicles to brush trucks will be used less to try and save both fuel and money, City Manager Bill Dennison said.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 01:03:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/skyrocketing_fuel_prices_prompt_city_to_curtail_some_vehicle_operations/10572/#When:05:03:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Spraying To Begin For Gypsy Moths</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/spraying_set_for_southwest_virginia_in_hopes_of_slowing_spread_of_gypsy_mot/10569/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Next week, close to 100,000 acres in Southwest Virginia will be sprayed with a chemical in hopes of slowing the spread of gypsy moths, whose caterpillars damage the forest.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/spraying_set_for_southwest_virginia_in_hopes_of_slowing_spread_of_gypsy_mot/10569/#When:04:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>&#8216;Innovative&#8217; Sapling Grove Apartments Open As Affordable Housing</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/city_officials_celebrate_opening_of_sapling_grove_apartments/10570/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
City officials celebrated the Tuesday opening of what is being called an &#8220;innovative concept in affordable housing.&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/city_officials_celebrate_opening_of_sapling_grove_apartments/10570/#When:04:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>FDA Probing Tainted Tomatoes</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fda_probing_tainted_tomatoes/10531/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration continues to investigate a surge of salmonella infections believed to come from certain tomatoes, local restaurants and retailers are taking precautions to keep customers safe.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/fda_probing_tainted_tomatoes/10531/#When:04:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Find A Fuel Friendly Ride or Compare Gas Prices Around Town</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/find_a_fuel_friendly_ride_or_compare_gas_prices_around_town/10517/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
http://www.automotive.com
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:27:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/find_a_fuel_friendly_ride_or_compare_gas_prices_around_town/10517/#When:20:27:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Web Site Lists Cheapest Gas Pumps In Town</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/web_site_lists_cheapest_gas_pumps_in_town/10516/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gasbuddy.com 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:19:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/web_site_lists_cheapest_gas_pumps_in_town/10516/#When:20:19:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Pump Patrol:&amp;nbsp; Your Source For Tri&#45;Cities Gas Price Comparisons</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/pump_patrol_your_source_for_local_gas_price_comparisons/10514/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The national average for a gallon of gasoline has topped the $4 mark for the first time in history, and all indications are that prices at the pump will keep on rising.&nbsp; We&#8217;re all feeling the pinch, and can help each other save a few precious pennies.&nbsp; Pump Patrol on Tricities.com is your one-stop-shop for sharing tips about where you&#8217;ve found the lowest gas prices, and learning more about getting the best gas mileage.&nbsp; Check out the comments posted by your fellow commuters across the Tri-Cities here, then share the best deal you&#8217;ve found.&nbsp; 

           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Jun 2008 14:48:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/pump_patrol_your_source_for_local_gas_price_comparisons/10514/#When:18:48:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Salmonella Linked To Tomatoes Spreads To 16 States</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/salmonella_linked_to_tomatoes_spreads_to_16_states/10503/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
You may have seen the signs at some local fast food restaurants: &#8220;No tomatoes due to a possible salmonella outbreak.&#8221;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Jun 2008 05:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/salmonella_linked_to_tomatoes_spreads_to_16_states/10503/#When:09:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Inventor Claims To Have Developed &#8216;Super Clean&#8217; Coal</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/former_abingdon_researcher_claims_hes_built_a_better_lump_of_coal/10487/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Every few minutes, Richard Wolfe poked his gloved hands into coal dust to remove a block from a pottery kiln&#8217;s viewport so he could peer at the metal 55-gallon drum inside.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 01:11:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/former_abingdon_researcher_claims_hes_built_a_better_lump_of_coal/10487/#When:05:11:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>U.S. Rep. David Davis Received Donations From Company He Secured Money For</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/davis_top_beneficiary_in_defense_firms_gifts/10488/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
U.S. Rep. David Davis, R-Tenn., is this election season&#8217;s leading congressional recipient of donations from a billion-dollar global defense contractor accused of bribing Saudi officials with call girls and money.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/davis_top_beneficiary_in_defense_firms_gifts/10488/#When:05:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Sports Teams From Four SW Virginia High Schools Win State Championships</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/four_southwest_virginia_schools_claim_vhsl_state_championships_saturday/10490/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Teams from four Southwest Virginia high schools were crowned Virginia High School League state champions on Saturday.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 00:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/four_southwest_virginia_schools_claim_vhsl_state_championships_saturday/10490/#When:04:44:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Mock Plane Crash Keeps Responders Sharp For Actual Emergencies</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/mock_air_crash_helps_emergency_responders_prepare_for_the_worst/10489/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Dozens of people lay sprawled across the Air Cargo tarmac at Tri-Cities Regional Airport on Saturday morning, waiting for emergency crews to arrive.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 00:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/mock_air_crash_helps_emergency_responders_prepare_for_the_worst/10489/#When:04:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Hot Weather Brings Out AC Shoppers</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/hot_weather_brings_out_ac_shoppers/10459/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Joseph Asbury gave his wife of eight years an ultimatum on Friday &#8211; either buy a window air conditioner for their home or he was moving into an outbuilding.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:33:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/hot_weather_brings_out_ac_shoppers/10459/#When:05:33:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Contractors To Pay $500,000 To Buchanan County In &#8216;Coon Dog&#8217; Case</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/contractors_to_pay_500000_to_buchanan_county_in_coon_dog_case/10458/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Jurors on Friday awarded $500,000 to Buchanan County for money it spent in flood-relief work plagued by corruption six years ago.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:17:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/contractors_to_pay_500000_to_buchanan_county_in_coon_dog_case/10458/#When:05:17:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Police K&#45;9s Compete To Be Top Dog</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/police_k_9s_compete_to_be_top_dog/10460/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Nytro sat obediently next to his handler and waited for the command.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/police_k_9s_compete_to_be_top_dog/10460/#When:05:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Fifth Liquor Store To Open In Bristol, Tenn.</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/new_liquor_store_on_tap_for_bristol_tennessee/10457/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Three months after the city&#8217;s newest liquor store opened near Bristol Motor Speedway, another business has entered the picture.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 00:44:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/new_liquor_store_on_tap_for_bristol_tennessee/10457/#When:04:44:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bristol, Va., Girl To Appear On &#8216;Next Child Superstar&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tennessee_avenue_christian_academy_sixth_grader_no_stranger_to_the_spotligh/10456/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Amber Dixon has been performing since she was a toddler, and later this month, she will display her talents nationally on the reality TV show &#8220;The Next Child Superstar.&#8221; 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 00:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/tennessee_avenue_christian_academy_sixth_grader_no_stranger_to_the_spotligh/10456/#When:04:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Enjoy &#8216;Mountain Blues Barbecue&#8217; Today At Crab Orchard Museum</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/enjoy_mountain_blues_barbecue_today_at_crab_orchard_museum/10454/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Belly up to the blues today. Literally.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 00:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/enjoy_mountain_blues_barbecue_today_at_crab_orchard_museum/10454/#When:04:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama Promises Bristol, Va., Crowd Health Care Changes</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/obama_vows_affordable_health_care_for_america/10399/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In his first public appearance since securing the Democratic presidential nomination, Barack Obama promised here Thursday that every American would receive affordable health care by the end of his first term.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 01:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/obama_vows_affordable_health_care_for_america/10399/#When:05:45:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>SW Virginia Will Be A Player In Presidential Election</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/southwest_virginia_takes_nations_center_stage_thursday/10396/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Long the doormat of presidential politics, Southwest Virginia took the nation&#8217;s center stage on Thursday when presumptive Democratic nominee Barack Obama kicked off his general election campaign for president here.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 01:30:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/southwest_virginia_takes_nations_center_stage_thursday/10396/#When:05:30:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Big Stick Wielded By Obama</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/obama_receives_roar_of_approval_in_bristol_town_hall_meeting/10398/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Barack Obama was caught off guard Thursday when a 95-year-old man stood and offered him the gift of a long, handmade maple walking stick.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 01:15:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/obama_receives_roar_of_approval_in_bristol_town_hall_meeting/10398/#When:05:15:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Reporter&#8217;s Notebook Records Quotes</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/reporters_notebook_soundbites_on_issues_at_obama_town_hall_meeting/10401/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A glimpse at some of the more notable quotes from Sen. Barack Obama during his stop in Bristol Thursday.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/reporters_notebook_soundbites_on_issues_at_obama_town_hall_meeting/10401/#When:05:00:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Federal Jury Is Deciding Liability In Buchanan County, Va., Bribery Case</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/federal_jury_to_decide_if_convicted_officials_and_contractors_owe_buchanan_/10404/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Whether Buchanan County can extract money in damages from officials and contractors convicted of corruption charges is in the hands of a federal jury.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:46:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/federal_jury_to_decide_if_convicted_officials_and_contractors_owe_buchanan_/10404/#When:04:46:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Saltville Residents Anticipate Today&#8217;s Opening Of Wave Pool</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/wave_pool_opens_in_saltville_today/10403/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With near-triple-digit temperatures Thursday, a steady flow of traffic cycled through the parking lot of the new Hardy Roberts Memorial Wave Pool.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:31:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/wave_pool_opens_in_saltville_today/10403/#When:04:31:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama Visit Signals Virginia Will Be Battleground State In Election</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/obama_mccain_expected_to_stump_heavily_across_virginia/10350/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sen. Barack Obama&#8217;s visit today to the Twin City is a sign that Virginia is in play for the general election, the region&#8217;s congressman says.&nbsp; Tricities.com will stream his town hall meeting in Bristol live here starting at 11:40 this morning.&nbsp;
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2008 01:45:00 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/local/consumer/article/obama_mccain_expected_to_stump_heavily_across_virginia/10350/#When:05:45:00Z</guid>
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