QCA.news - Quad Cities news and view from both sides of the river

Tuesday, March 24th, 2026
	Cook review: 'Project Hail Mary' is a crowd-pleasing, funny spin on a serious topic This science-fiction adventure is a lot funnier than you might think. "Project Hail Mary," the weekend box office smash that millions of people enjoyed, is a true crowd-pleaser - a light-hearted take on a serious subject. Based on Andy Weir's book of the same name from 2021, it's science fiction that's understandable and believable: Some [...]
	Iran fires more missiles at Israel, dismisses Trump's talk as 'fake news' Israeli health officials said Iranian missiles struck four sites across Israel Tuesday, including central Tel Aviv, injuring at least six people. Iranian authorities also said a gas supply line in southwest Iran was struck overnight.
	Anti-Saloon Students This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.By the time Billy Sunday brought his crusade to Rock Island in 1919, to wage eight weeks of war against the liquor…
	As parents age, their children face hard choices about when to take the car keys States have many policies to stop risky older drivers from renewing their licenses. But in practice, it's often adult children who must decide when to take the car keys away from an aging parent.
	Denmark holds early elections spurred by Trump's threats to take Greenland Denmark's prime minister called early parliamentary elections after gaining a popularity boost from standing up to President Trump over his threat to seize Greenland.
	ICE deployments created chaos for cities and cost them millions, NPR analysis finds Local leaders report already-strapped police departments racked up overtime bills in the millions while others report a multi-million dollar hit to business during the worst ICE surges.
	Trump takes aim at windmills despite increasing energy costs President Trump's mission to fight renewable wind energy comes at a time of rising energy costs.
	Airstrikes may have destroyed Iran's last F-14s, ending a long, strange saga The F-14 was made famous in Top Gun. The U.S. sold the planes to Iran in the 1970s, only for the two countries to become enemies. Iran kept its F-14s flying for decades in the face of U.S. sanctions.
	Permanent daylight saving time loophole: What to know Georgia is one of 19 states that have been waiting to lock their clocks on permanent daylight saving time. A new bill could go around the Congressional action they need to make that happen.
	QCA demonstrators protest Miller-Meeks' approach to health care More than a dozen demonstrators showed up outside Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks' office in Davenport to protest Miller-Meeks' approach to health care. Demonstrators protested the expiration of the enhanced federal subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and cuts to Medicaid. Five people spoke at the demonstration. One man said his family wouldn't have been able [...]
	At least 66 killed in military plane crash in Colombia, head of armed forces says Colombian officials say that a military cargo plane with 128 people on board, most of them soldiers, crashed shortly after taking off Monday in southwestern Colombia.
	UK police probe possible Iran link after Jewish charity ambulances set on fire Police in London are investigating a suspected antisemitic hate crime attack after four vehicles belonging to a Jewish ambulance service were set on fire.
Monday, March 23rd, 2026
	TLC, Salt-N-Pepa, En Vogue to perform at Iowa State Fair Three of hip-hop and R&B’s biggest groups are teaming up for a tour coming to Iowa this summer.
	Davenport preschool renovations expected to cost $5.8 million Renovations would include upgrading the first floor’s HVAC system, a playground and additional parking, according to board documents.
	Vote tabled on rezoning proposal that city leaders say could bring 100s of jobs to Rock Island Changes could be in store for several parcels of land along Sunset Lane and the Centennial Expressway in Rock Island
	Mount Pleasant School District leaders hold public meeting on future of Salem Elementary With the looming financial cuts, dozens of community members showed up to make their voices heard.
	Despite state bans and restrictions, the number of abortions in the U.S. holds steady The Guttmacher Institute has a new analysis on how many abortions happened in 2025.
	Victims identified in fatal crash off Highway 61 in Scott County The victims have been identified as 21-year-old Fashawn McCann of Chicago and his 20-month-old son, Sayvier McCann.
	DavenportU Citizens Academy kicks off News 8's Maddie Franz is one of 15 Davenport residents participating in the program, designed to teach community members about how city government works.
	Victims identified in fatal crash off Highway 61 in Scott County The victims have been identified as 21-year-old Fashawn McCann of Chicago and his 20-month-old son, Sayvier McCann.
	Scott County Sheriff's Department releases names of victims in Sunday crash The crash occurred at 4:25 p.m. in the 8500 block of 140th Street-U.S. 61 near Blue Grass, killing a 21-year-old woman and her 20-month-old son.
	Aledo business recovering following large fire A fire destroyed about 30,000 square feet of Meminger Metal Finishing late Thursday night. No injuries were reported.
	No injuries following crash between semi truck and train in Scott County The driver of the semi truck was given a citation for failing to stop at a railroad crossing.
	Officials identify 2 killed in Highway 61 crash Officials identified the two people killed in a crash on Highway 61 Sunday afternoon.
	These 5 Iowa candidates could get kicked off the ballot The State Objection Panel meets Tuesday to decide whether five Iowa candidates should be allowed to appear on the June primary ballot.
	RI City Council approves rezoning for 50-acre stretch by Illinois Route 92 Rock Island City Council voted Monday night to make more land along Illinois Highway 92 available for economic development. They unanimously approved rezoning about 50 acres south of 31st Avenue for industrial use. The area was originally zoned for nature conservation. Rock Island city officials say the land hasn't been used for that, though - [...]
	Illinois bill requiring serial numbers on handgun ammo draws skepticism from lawmakers, gun owners House Bill 4414 would require all handgun ammunition sold in Illinois to carry serial numbers and be logged in a state police database.
	Muscatine County, Iowa agencies promote Severe Weather Awareness Week The Muscatine County Emergency Management/911, Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM), National Weather Service (NWS), and Iowa Emergency Management Association (IEMA) have joined together to promote Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 23-27, a news release says. Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity to highlight the importance of being aware of, [...]
	Markwayne Mullin confirmed as the next secretary of Homeland Security The Oklahoma Republican comes to the helm in the midst of a shutdown that has left some 100,000 of the department's more than a quarter-million employees working without pay.
	No injuries following crash between semi truck and train in Scott County The driver of the semi truck was given a citation for failing to stop at a railroad crossing.
	No one hurt after train, semi-trailer crash No one was hurt after a train and semi-trailer crash Monday afternoon.
	Roller coaster temps continue in the Quad Cities this week Fortunately, we've had some rain and snow recently in the Quad Cities. but we still need more. Most of this week looks dry, with a chance for rain back in the area on Thursday. Temps are cool early in the week, but climb into the upper 70s again by Thursday! That's above normal by quite [...]
	Iowa alcohol revenue declines as drinking habits shift Iowans are drinking less, and the state is collecting less revenue as a result, according to the director of the Department of Revenue.
	Push for $2.12 million in E-15 accessibility in Iowa continues The push continues for more access to E-15 gas. Area bipartisan legislators support the idea of making E-15 available year-round. E-15 accessibility in Iowa continues to expand, as it presents opportunity for farmers. Also known as Unleaded 88, supporters say it's more cost-effective and eco-friendlier than regular gasoline, and it's made by grinding bushels of [...]
	Victim of fatal Whiteside County plane crash identified 27-year-old Justin Wiggins was killed after a small, private plane crashed on Friday afternoon.
	Illinois bill would allow mental health leave for law enforcement A bill under consideration in Illinois would ensure access to mental health leave for law enforcement officers. The Police Mental Health Leave Act (House Bill 4715) would allow officers suffering from a mental illness as a result of a traumatic event to use five days of paid mental health leave a year.The move acts as [...]
	Victim of fatal Whiteside County plane crash identified 27-year-old Justin Wiggins was killed after a small, private plane crashed on Friday afternoon.
	Demonstrators gather in Davenport for 16th anniversary of Affordable Care Act Monday was the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act being signed into law.
	Aledo business recovering after fire Officials said more than 30 employees of Meminger Metal Finishing are out of a job.
	Celebrated pianist will join string quartet Invoke at Capitol Theatre, Burlington The genre-defying string quartet Invoke will take the stage alongside acclaimed pianist and composer Clarice Assad for an evening of music at the Capitol Theater in Burlington, beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 26. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Known for blending classical, folk, bluegrass, and contemporary styles into a seamless and engaging sound, Invoke [...]
	Rock Falls women’s sober living home at risk of closure A women’s sober living home in Rock Falls is at risk of shutting down, and its leaders say without community support, it could leave a major gap for those in recovery.
	Rezoning proposal could bring 100s of jobs to Rock Island official says Changes could be in store for several parcels of land along Sunset Lane and the Centennial Expressway in Rock Island
	17th annual Midwest government contracting symposium coming to Vibrant Arena This year's event will focus on recent U.S. military events in Iran and how the Defense Department is responding.
	Traffic Alert: Temporary road closure coming to Clinton’s 14th Street, College Avenue A traffic alert for Clinton drivers to be aware of.
	How proposed bills could help first-time homebuyers In the QCA and beyond, housing affordability is an obstacle for many trying to save for their first home. Our Quad Cities News Washington correspondent Maddie Biertempfel shows industry expert reaction to the First Home Savings Opportunity Act (H. R. 6542) and other proposals and how they could help first-time homebuyers.
	Illinois politics latest: Data center tariffs, home and auto insurance regulations, primary debrief Every Monday on The Current, during the state legislative sessions, we take a dive into the latest headlines from Des Moines, Iowa, and Springfield, Illinois.
	Crews de-escalate incident on I-74 bridge, no injuries reported If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis call or text 988 for free confidential support 24 hours a day.
	Sterling man killed in 2-vehicle crash in Clinton A two-vehicle crash at 19th Avenue NW and Mills Creek Parkway in Clinton left one person dead Sunday afternoon, according to the Iowa State Patrol.
	Iowa politics latest: Tax increase on HMO insurance, limits on governor's power, end of session near Every Monday on The Current, during the state legislative sessions, we take a dive into the latest headlines from Des Moines, Iowa, and Springfield, Illinois.
	Rock and Man, Burnin' Out Their Fuses Up There Alone: “Project Hail Mary,” “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come,” and “The Pout-Pout Fish” Having not read the Andy Weir novel on which their film is based, it's hard to tell if Phil Lord and Christopher Miller were the right directors for the science-fiction adventure Project Hail Mary, or – for the book's many admirers, and maybe a few of us newbies – the absolute wrong ones.
	Virginia becomes first First Four team to reach Sweet Sixteen after 83-75 double-OT win over Iowa Kymora Johnson scored 28 points as 10th-seeded Virginia became the first First Four to reach the regional semifinals after an 83-75 double-overtime win over No. 2 seed Iowa on Monday in a women’s NCAA Tournament second-round game.
	Coroner identifies pilot who died in small-plane crash near Whiteside County Airport A small-plane has crashed in Whiteside County Friday afternoon.
	Here’s how you can help KWQC return to DISH lineup It’s now been nearly two weeks since DISH Network removed KWQC from its lineup, with no end in sight.
	Juliana Stratton and Josh Higgins Both Pulled Low(ish) Cards, But They Played Them and Won One of the biggest stories to come out of election day was that several candidates with the most money came up short.
	Enjoy a scenic run at the Quad Cities Running Festival Enjoy a scenic run along the Great River Trail on the Mississippi River, compete with live music! Steve Abel joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the Quad Cities Running Festival. For more information, click here.
	Trump administration places Christopher Columbus statue on White House grounds The Trump administration placed a statue of Christopher Columbus on the White House grounds. Some people are not happy about it.
	Crews respond to crash involving semi vs. train Crews are on the scene of a crash involving a semi-truck and a train.
	Illinois and Iowa citizen groups, providers protest expiration of health care subsidies On the 16th anniversary of the ACA, health care advocates, patients, and community leaders held events across Illinois (including Davenport) to celebrate the law’s impact expanding access to care and warn about cuts.
	57-year-old Illinois man killed in Clinton County crash on Sunday The crash occurred at 2:57 p.m. at the intersection of 19th Avenue NW and Mill Creek Parkway.
	Lee County Narcotics Task Force arrests Fort Madison man on drug charges A Fort Madison man is facing felony and misdemeanor drug charges.
	Galesburg police warn of phone scam impersonating law enforcement Galesburg police warn of a phone scam targeting residents, where callers impersonate law enforcement and demand money for a fake jail release program.
	Explore the world with Girl Scouts at Bend XPO Girl Scouts invites families, friends, and kids of all ages to Journey the World, a lively cultural celebration taking place April 18 at the Bend XPO, 922 Mississippi Parkway in East Moline from 12:30 – 4 p.m. The event brings countries and cultures to life through hands‑on activities, performances and imaginative exploration. Guests travel from [...]
	Raw milk proponents push for fewer restrictions on Illinois sales despite state health warnings Raw milk advocates saw Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s appointment as Health and Human Services Director as a win, but it hasn’t translated to loosened regulations in Illinois.
	Train, semi collide in Bettendorf Our Quad Cities News was on the scene of a collision between a train and a flatbed semi near the intersection of 247th Street and State Street (U.S. 67) in Bettendorf. The collision knocked several containers from the trailer, but there were no signs of any spillage. No injuries have been reported.
	‘Project Hail Mary’ explores unique forms of life in space – 5 essential reads on searching for aliens that look nothing like life on Earth “Project Hail Mary,” the movie adaptation to Andy Weir’s 2021 novel about a science teacher attempting to save the Earth from sun-eating microbes, was released in March 2026 to stellar ratings from critics and audiences alike. The movie explores a few unique forms that extraterrestrial life could take, from space microorganisms that produce both infrared light and an unfathomable amount of energy, to rocklike aliens that live under crushing pressure and breathe ammonia. Over the past decade, scientists have come up with a variety of frameworks to guide their search for life in the universe. While it’s most convenient to start looking for life using the knowledge that biologists have about life on Earth, scientists have also begun integrating broader conceptions of life, including life that perhaps evolved in different chemical environments. To expand on the idea that life out in space might look nothing like life on Earth, here are five articles The Conversation U.S. rounded up from our archives, and written by astronomers and astrobiologists. 1. Why base the search on life on Earth? Astronomers participating in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence typically start by identifying potentially habitable planets. And to do that, they look for what sustains life on Earth: water. Planets that are close enough to their Sun that liquid water wouldn’t freeze, but far enough away that it wouldn’t evaporate, fall into what’s called the Goldilocks Zone. But why base the search on water, which complex life on Earth uses to survive, if an extraterrestrial life-form might use different chemistry? Cole Mathis, a physicist and astrobiologist at Arizona State University who studies complex adaptive systems, explained that out of convenience, astronomers start by looking for signals similar to those produced by life on Earth. Detecting chemical signatures using the instruments on telescopes is tricky – it’s like playing hide-and-seek, but you’re outside the house and can only peer in through the window. You might as well start by ruling out the easy and more obvious hiding spots. By measuring the depth of the dip in brightness and knowing the size of the star, scientists can determine the size or radius of the planet. NASA Ames Missions to Mars have looked for signs of photosynthesis – the process by which plants take in energy – and telescopes peering deep into space look for oxygen, which organisms on Earth release into the atmosphere. “Most astronomers and astrobiologists know that if we only look for life that’s like Earth life, we might miss the signs of aliens that are really different,” Mathis wrote. “But honestly, we’ve never detected aliens before, so it’s hard to know where to start. When you don’t know what to do, starting somewhere is usually better than nowhere.” Read more: Why do astronomers look for signs of life on other planets based on what life is like on Earth? 2. Finding patterns of purpose Sometimes, scientists find chemical ingredients that make up life on Earth out in space, but they can’t assume that these ingredients on their own indicate life. Geological and environmental processes on planets may produce these chemical signatures without any living organisms involved. The key difference, to Amirali Aghazadeh, a computational scientist at the Georgia Institute of Technology, is purpose. Life grows, adapts and changes over time to better fit its environment. His research team came up with a framework that, instead of looking for a specific type of life-form, looks at patterns in collections of chemicals and evaluates whether they could have been produced by processes like metabolism and evolution. “If we assume that alien life uses the same chemistry, we risk missing biology that is similar – but not identical – to our own, or misidentifying nonliving chemistry as a sign of life,” wrote Aghazadeh. Read more: Can scientists detect life without knowing what it looks like? Research using machine learning offers a new way 3. Lessons from complex, evolving systems Like Aghazadeh, many astrobiologists are starting to look more broadly at how complexity emerges, rather than searching for a specific type of molecule that could indicate the presence of extraterrestrial life. Other forms of life may be made up of entirely different chemical ingredients to humans, but to be considered life, they would still have to adapt and evolve over time. Evolution is the process of change in systems. It can describe how a group of something becomes more complex – or even just different – over time. Chris Impey, an astronomer from the University of Arizona, attended a workshop where scientists across disciplines came together to try to understand how and why systems in the universe – from organisms to languages and information – change or grow more complex over time. Figuring out these underlying drivers of complexity, or finding signals that indicate the presence of a complex system, could help scientists search for unique forms of life in the universe. “As astrobiologists try to detect life off Earth, they’ll need to be creative,” Impey wrote. “One strategy is to measure mineral signatures on the rocky surfaces of exoplanets, since mineral diversity tracks terrestrial biological evolution. As life evolved on Earth, it used and created minerals for exoskeletons and habitats.” Read more: Extraterrestrial life may look nothing like life on Earth − so astrobiologists are coming up with a framework to study how complex systems evolve 4. Beyond biology: Looking for ‘technosignatures’ Another option for searching for life has nothing to do with biology. Some scientists, wrote astronomers Macy Huston and Jason Wright from Penn State University, look for “technosignatures:” signals that would come from technology originating beyond Earth. Human technology – from TV towers to satellite and spacecraft communications – emits enough radio waves to create faint but detectable signals traveling through space. Scientists use this idea to search for artificial signals that could potentially come from an extraterrestrial civilization. Other technosignatures could include chemical pollution, artificial heat or light from industry, or signals from a large number of satellites. Advanced civilizations may produce a lot of pollution in the form of chemicals, light and heat that can be detected across the vast distances of space. NASA/Jay Freidlander “While many astronomers have thought a lot about what might make for a good signal, ultimately, nobody knows what extraterrestrial technology might look like and what signals are out there in the universe,” wrote Huston and Wright. Read more: Signatures of alien technology could be how humanity first finds extraterrestrial life 5. Evaluating extraordinary claims Detecting extraterrestrial life in any form would be a momentous occasion, so, as Impey wrote, making a declaration might not be cut-and-dried. In “Project Hail Mary,” the fictional scientists sample and study the “space dots” they find extensively before drawing a conclusion. Scientists must first rule out any possible non-biological explanations for a discovery, meaning the discovery would have to be unexplained by any chemical or geological processes. If scientists ever found a potential life-form very different from all life on Earth, it might take extensive research before they could rule out all other possibilities and determine that it’s a living organism. But setting this bar so high protects scientists from making a claim they would later need to walk back. “A detection of life would be a remarkable development,” Impey wrote. “On scales large and small, astronomers try to set a high bar of evidence before claiming a discovery.” Read more: ‘Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence’ − an astronomer explains how much evidence scientists need to claim discoveries like extraterrestrial life This story is a roundup of articles from The Conversation’s archives.
	Officials identify 57-year-old killed in Clinton crash Officials said 57-year-old David L. Noble of Sterling, Illinois, was killed after a crash Sunday afternoon.
	Officials: Dixon man faces attempted murder charge A Dixon man is facing an attempted murder charge after deputies from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic violence incident over the weekend.
	Man’s best friend, or man’s best nurse? 61% say pets provide major comfort Man’s best friend, or man’s best nurse? 61% say pets provide major comfortWhen recovery happens at home, the environment matters.Hospital discharge rates are rising. Chronic conditions are increasingly managed in living rooms rather than in clinics. And in many of those homes, someone else is already on duty.A February 2026 survey of pet owners finds that 61% say their pet provides a great deal of comfort. It is more than a sentimental statistic. It reflects a shift in how Americans experience care, coping, and daily stability inside their own homes.As healthcare continues moving beyond hospital walls, the quiet role of pets is becoming harder to ignore. Burd Home Health shares findings from a new survey on the role pets play in recovery and daily wellness.Key Findings61% of pet owners say their pet provides a huge amount of comfort.96% feel their pet is a key part of their mental well-being.72% have stayed more consistent with medication, hydration, or meals because their pet kept them in a routine.57% say their pet played a big role in helping them cope through a major emotional season.58% say pet-friendly care would be extremely important if they or a loved one needed at-home care.75% believe pets reduce loneliness a lot for people who spend significant time at home.98% agree that pets deserve more recognition as part of the support system for people healing at home.Comfort Is the Entry PointEmotional support often begins with presence. Burd Home Health The survey shows 96% of pet owners consider their pet a key part of their mental well-being. That level of agreement is rare in public opinion research. It signals that pets are not viewed as background companions. They are integrated into how people regulate stress and process emotion.When people feel overwhelmed, many turn to their animals before anyone else. Thirty-one percent of pet owners say they open up to their pet first. Nearly half of dog owners and 42% of cat owners talk to their pet daily about how they are feeling.In a culture marked by social fatigue and constant digital interaction, pets offer something simple: attention without judgment.Routine Becomes TreatmentComfort alone does not explain the data. Burd Home Health The survey finds 72% of pet owners have stayed more consistent with medication, hydration, or meals because their pet kept them in a routine. Among Gen Zers, that rises to 78%.Routine is often the first thing to slip during illness or emotional strain. Pets interrupt that slide. Feed times require waking up. Walks demand movement. Even basic care tasks create structure.That structure can have a measurable impact. A person who gets up to let the dog out may also take their morning medication. A scheduled feeding time may prevent skipping meals. In homes where recovery unfolds slowly, rhythm can support resilience.Loneliness Is a Health FactorTime at home can bring isolation, especially for older adults or those managing chronic conditions who rely on at-home care services. Burd Home Health Three-quarters of respondents (75%) believe that pets reduce loneliness among people who spend significant time at home. At the same time, 60% believe their pet can sense when they are not feeling well.Whether animals truly detect illness is a scientific question. The perception, though, matters. Feeling noticed can reinforce connection, and connection is increasingly discussed as protective in public health research.Pets may not replace human relationships, but they appear to buffer isolation in ways people clearly feel.A Generational Shift in SupportThe emotional weight of pets is even stronger among younger adults. Burd Home Health A third of millennial pet owners describe their pet as a family member.Younger generations have grown up during economic instability, COVID-19 pandemic disruption, and heightened awareness of mental health. Their definition of support looks different.For many, pets are not a supplement to coping. They are part of the foundation.Care at Home Is Changing ExpectationsThe findings point to a larger implication.If healthcare increasingly happens at home, then the realities of home life matter. And for millions of households, home life includes animals. Burd Home Health More than half of respondents (58%) say it would be extremely important that any at-home care plan be pet-friendly. Nearly all (98%) believe pets deserve more recognition as part of the support system for people healing at home.That level of agreement suggests the public may already see pets as part of the caregiving structure. Formal care models have been slower to reflect that view.When patients recover at home, support is not limited to clinicians and family members. It includes the dog that insists on a morning walk and the cat that curls up during a difficult afternoon.The TakeawayFor decades, “pet therapy” meant trained animals visiting hospitals.The survey suggests something quieter but widespread. Therapy is already happening at home.Pets do not write care plans. They do not administer medication. Yet for many Americans, they provide comfort, structure, and steady companionship that shape how healing unfolds.As home-based care expands, the four-legged presence in the room may not be incidental. It may be part of how recovery works.MethodologyTo understand how Americans view the role of pets in healing and at-home care, we surveyed 1,000 adults nationwide who currently own a pet on Feb. 4, 2026. Participants answered a series of questions about the emotional support their pets provide, the impact pets have on daily routines and health habits, and the importance of pet-friendly environments during recovery at home. Responses were analyzed by demographic groups, including age, gender, and income, to identify trends and generational differences.This story was produced by Burd Home Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Intermittent fasting for beginners: A science-based guide Intermittent fasting for beginners: A science-based guideIntermittent fasting should be simple, but it’s complicated by endless noise. “Try our 30-day fasting reset diet for effortless weight loss and eternal life.” “Look good at the turn of the 22nd century!”This article from LMNT will help cut through the nonsense so you can decide how and why to pursue intermittent fasting — or if fasting even makes sense for you. Whatever your fasting experience, you’ll find something useful here.Why fast to begin with? Most people practice intermittent fasting for weight loss, but that’s not the only benefit. You might also see improved metabolic health, energy levels, mental sharpness, and sleep. Even a 12-hour overnight fast can help reduce late-night eating and support circadian rhythm, but there are many different ways to fast, which will be discussed later.Short on time and just here for the quick tips? Here are five ways to improve your intermittent fasts:Take electrolytes to prevent deficiency symptoms.Drink to thirst to maintain sodium levels and energy.Eat a nutrient-dense, protein-rich diet during your feeding windows.Try a low-carb diet to fat-adapt before transitioning to fasting.Don’t be a hero (fasting isn’t a competition).If you have a minute, stick around. This article covers intermittent fasting benefits, types of fasts, how to choose a regimen, and practical strategies to make fasting easier. But first, let’s define what fasting actually is.What is Intermittent Fasting?Fasting, broadly, is intentionally abstaining from food for any length of time. Intermittent fasting is a type of fasting that involves regularly going without food for 12-36 hours.It’s worth noting that not all fasts require zero calories. Some regimens allow for reduced calories on “fasting days,” and the science suggests these “modified fasts” have similar benefits to zero-calorie fasts. When overeaters eat fewer calories, good things tend to happen. Most commonly, though, you’ll see fasters avoiding all calories.Why is fasting beneficial? Because it signals your body to access its backup energy stores (body fat) when calories are scarce.This is an adaptation that’s millions of years old. Our ancestors often failed at hunting and gathering. They needed their body fat (worth tens of thousands of calories, even on a lean human) to last through famines. They stayed lean because they moved frequently and burned through fat stores when mammoth meat was hard to come by.Modern society promotes the opposite dynamic. With virtually limitless access to food, we can be eating constantly. This promotes fat storage rather than fat burning, because overeating (especially fat/carb combos) raises blood sugar, which raises the blood sugar-regulating hormone insulin.Insulin keeps our blood sugar in check by shuttling glucose (sugar) out of our blood and into our cells — tucking excess calories away as fat for safekeeping in case of a famine. Persistently high insulin can make cells less responsive over time. In other words, overeating plus weight gain can contribute to insulin resistance, a major driver of Type 2 diabetes. Insulin-resistant folks put on fat especially easily.Intermittent fasting can improve insulin sensitivity, especially when it leads to weight loss. Fasting lowers circulating insulin and nudges your metabolism toward burning more stored fat for fuel — a shift that can improve how well your body handles glucose over time.It’s also worth noting that depriving yourself of calories may activate a cellular recycling program called autophagy, which is getting more buzz recently even though most evidence comes from animal or laboratory studies. Essentially, autophagy breaks down the old, damaged parts of your cells, allowing the body to recycle those proteins and lipids into something new.Now, let’s talk about the benefits brought on by fasting and the shift from insulin-resistant to insulin-sensitive.Benefits of Intermittent FastingIntermittent fasting can help with weight loss, metabolic health, energy levels, cognition, and your wake-sleep cycle. Let’s explore some science on these benefits.1. Weight lossAll 27 trials in a 2020 systematic review found intermittent fasting (various protocols) led to weight loss in overweight or obese adults — 0.8%-13% weight loss, depending on the trial. That said, recent meta-analyses suggest IF works about as well as traditional calorie restriction for weight loss. Its real advantage may be simpler: Some people just find it easier to stick to. When people compress their feeding window — the amount of hours in a day that they allow themselves to eat — they tend to eat less.2. Metabolic healthFasting can help folks get off the insulin resistance train. How? Food breaks keep blood sugar and insulin levels down, leading to improved insulin function. Because of this, intermittent fasting is a promising therapy for Type 2 diabetes and other metabolic issues. Low-carb and ketogenic diets can also help improve insulin resistance (fewer carbs equals lower blood sugar equals less insulin production).3. More stable energyIntermittent fasting improves your fat-burning capacity, decreasing your reliance on carbs for energy. Our bodies burn carbs for energy by default, causing our energy levels to rise and fall with our blood sugar levels (if you’ve ever experienced an afternoon crash where you crave candy, you’ll understand). Fasting removes carbs from the equation, prompting the body to run on fat instead. Some people report steadier energy levels when fasting or eating fewer carbohydrates, though responses vary.4. Mental sharpnessWhile fasting, your liver burns fat for energy and produces molecules called ketones. Ketones then supply a portion of the brain’s ravenous energy requirements. A 2016 study found that higher ketone levels (from a high-fat meal) improved performance on various mental tasks in older adults, but more research on intermittent fasting and cognition in healthy adults is needed. Some people report feeling sharper while fasting, but others don’t. Listen to your body (and brain). Rather than fasting, you can also consider reducing carb intake to boost your ketones.5. Circadian rhythmYour circadian rhythm (24-hour wake-sleep cycle) governs the quality of your sleep and the function of countless genes that impact your health. Two main factors regulate the circadian rhythm:LightFoodBright light and food (especially protein) early in the day help wake you up. Avoiding blue light and food at night helps you wind down and produce your sleep hormone, melatonin. Fasting overnight — aka avoiding those late-night snacks — is a simple way to tune this rhythm.Types of Intermittent FastingThere are myriad ways to intermittently fast. Below are a few of the popular ones, but don’t be afraid to create a fasting schedule that works best for you.Popular Intermittent Fasting Protocols:12/12. Also known as overnight fasting, 12/12 entails 12 hours of eating and 12 hours of calorie deprivation. Typically folks fast from dinner to breakfast without food, such as 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Most folks can handle a 12-hour fast.16/8. Popular among athletes and biohackers, 16/8 entails eating all your meals within an 8-hour feeding window (thus fasting 16 hours).OMAD. One meal a day (OMAD) involves consuming all your daily calories in one sitting.5:2. 5:2 entails five days of normal eating with two non-consecutive fasting days per week. Some folks will still consume up to 25% of their usual calories on fasting days.ADF. Alternate-day fasting (ADF) entails fasting every other day. Again, some folks will consume up to 25% of their usual calories on fasting days.How to Choose a Fasting ProtocolIf you’re new to fasting, consider starting with a 12-hour overnight fast. Most folks can do an overnight fast comfortably. Plus, it’s great for your circadian rhythm and helps you start adapting to burning fat for energy.If you want to extend your fast from there, try adding one hour of fasting to your protocol per week (13, 14, 15, etc.) and see how your body reacts. Jumping straight to longer fasts like OMAD or 5:2 can make folks quit early. For instance, a 2022 study found that compliance was poor among participants doing 5:2 fasting.Longer fasts have other risks, too. The extra hunger can negatively impact sleep, for one. Also, the longer your fasts, the harder it is to get enough nutrients (like protein) from food. Keep this in mind when choosing how you want to fast. If you’re losing weight and feeling better with a 14-hour fast, that may be your optimal protocol. When it comes to fasting, more isn’t always better.Along these lines, get clear on why you’re fasting. To lose 20 pounds? To stay lean and mentally sharp? To have more time for work?If you want to lose weight, the longer fasts may get you there faster. But only if your body and schedule can tolerate them. If it’s no fun, there’s no shame in backing off.If you want to gain or maintain muscle, shorter fasts are better. They give you more chances to consume sufficient protein and calories for muscle growth (assuming you’re strength training). Interestingly, a 2021 review found that various intermittent fasting protocols (16/8, OMAD, 5:2) combined with strength training did not lead to significant muscle loss in participants. To be clear, they still lost some muscle, just not a statistically significant amount, and the included studies were fairly short at 4-8 weeks — perhaps not long enough to show effects of long-term fasting.Bottom line? Start small, work up to longer fasts slowly (if at all), and listen to your body.Groups That Should Be Careful With Intermittent FastingCertain folks should generally avoid any fast longer than 12 or 13 hours. These groups include:ChildrenAthletesUnderweight peopleThose with eating disordersPregnant and nursing womenPeople with diabetesThough early evidence suggests fasting is therapeutic for Type 2 diabetes, folks with diabetes shouldn’t fast without medical supervision (especially those taking insulin or sulfonylureas, which can cause hypoglycemia). Don’t wing it. Work with a clinician.Tips for Intermittent Fasting SuccessThe world of fasting is filled with bad advice and pseudo-wisdom. These five tips will help you cut through the clutter.1. Take electrolytesLonger fasts increase the risk of electrolyte losses, particularly sodium, for two reasons:Lower intake of electrolyte-rich foodsHigher urinary excretion of sodium and potassiumUsing an electrolyte drink can help keep electrolyte levels stable and prevent the headaches, muscle cramps, and tiredness that often accompany low electrolyte levels (and, therefore, fasting). LMNT 2. Drink to thirstA typical nugget of pseudo-wisdom is to drink more water while fasting. Unfortunately, if you drink too much plain water, you’ll dilute blood sodium levels and circle back to those same low sodium symptoms (headaches, tiredness, etc). The solution is to add electrolytes to your water and drink to thirst. Thirst is a well-calibrated system to guide fluid intake. Lean on it.3. When you eat, eat wellWhen you’re eating fewer meals, those meals should be as nutrient-dense as possible. Get plenty of protein, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and other essential compounds by eating meat, fish, eggs, and vegetables during feeding windows. Something like paleo or keto tends to work well.If you’re struggling to digest your massive meals, lengthen your feeding window. Don’t force a fasting protocol if your body doesn’t like it.4. Go keto firstBefore progressing beyond an overnight fast, consider shifting to a low-carb diet. A low-carb diet keeps insulin low, helping you access body fat for energy. This “fat adaptation” makes fasting easier — or you may find that keto is working just fine for your goals and you don’t need to fast after all.5. Don’t get competitivePeople are pretty gung ho about intermittent fasting these days. They get competitive with others and themselves.But if a 16-, 20-, or 24-hour fast doesn’t feel right, don’t pressure yourself to power through. Maybe 12 or 13 hours is your sweet spot.In the end, it’s your body, and how you feel moment to moment is the most critical data point. How’s your energy? How’s your mood? How are you sleeping? Are you feeling strong?Intermittent fasting should support — not derail — these areas. If it’s not, consider retreating to a lighter regimen as you inch toward your health goals. That’s how you pursue intermittent fasting sustainably.This story was produced by LMNT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cooking with Heart classes expand into evening hours UnityPoint Health – Trinity is listening to the public and expanding its free Cooking with Heart Foundational series this year with new evening class times. “We heard from our community that they would like an evening option and we’re proud to deliver,” says Marli Apt, community engagement manager at UnityPoint Health – Trinity. “By adding [...]
	What $2,000 rent gets you across America What $2,000 rent gets you across AmericaA monthly rent of $2,000 can look very different depending on where you live in the United States. In large cities, that amount might cover a modest studio or one-bedroom apartment. In mid-sized metropolitan areas or smaller regional hubs, where the average rent is lower, it could stretch to a three-bedroom space, upgraded amenities, or even a downtown location.Since $2,000 doesn’t look the same in every city, it’s important to explore what that budget looks like in cities across the U.S. so you don’t end up breaking the bank. In smaller cities, it might cover a luxury one-bedroom apartment, while in major metros, it could only get you a compact studio. Understanding how far your budget goes can help you plan your move and find the best fit for your lifestyle.In this article, Apartments.com breaks down what a $2,000 monthly budget can get renters in cities across every U.S. region.Key TakeawaysIn 46 of 50 U.S. states, the average rent is below $2,000; renters can find a range of options even in major metro areas, with the national average rent for a one-bedroom at $1,630.Renters in smaller cities like Memphis, Buffalo, and Indianapolis can afford three-bedroom apartments within a $2,000 budget, while in big cities like Boston, Los Angeles, and Seattle, that same budget often only covers a studio. National Average TrendsRent prices vary widely across the country, but national trends help set expectations. As of October 2025, the average U.S. rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,630 per month, with an average size of 696 square feet. Forty-six of 50 states have an average rent below $2,000, showing that most renters can find options under this benchmark even in the biggest cities. Apartments.com Comparing How Far $2,000 in Rent Goes for Different RegionsEvery city has its own charm — and its own version of what $2,000 in rent can get you. In Boston, for instance, the only option under $2,000 are studios in Columbia Point, as every square foot in the city comes at a premium.But just a few hundred miles away in Buffalo, that same budget stretches much further, covering an average three-bedroom apartment in Black Rock with nearly double the space.Check out the cities organized by region below to get a quick overview of how they compare. Apartments.com New EnglandRocky coastlines, cobblestone streets, and historic downtowns with a small-town feel create the charm of New England. From Providence’s artsy West End to Boston’s brownstone-lined Back Bay, the region captures classic charm with a modern twist. A $2,000 budget can get you several bedrooms in some New England cities, while in others, it only amounts to a small room. Apartments.com Portland, MaineAverage One-Bedroom Rent: $1,839/monthAverage One-Bedroom Size: 567 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 617 sq. ft.Portland is considered one of the best places to live in Maine because of its strong job market, waterfront charm, liveliness, and affordability. Seventy-eight percent of rents in Portland are within a $2,000 budget, including one-bedrooms that average $1,839 per month.Downtown Portland’s City Center sits at the higher end of the rental market, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,981. Brick sidewalks along Fore and Commercial Street lead to historic buildings filled with oyster bars, cafés, and galleries, while Congress Street in the Arts District blends classic architecture with modern energy. North Deering offers a quieter, more affordable option since two-bedrooms average $1,740. Residents enjoy peaceful parks and trails along the Presumpscot River.Portsmouth, New HampshireAverage Studio Rent: $1,894/monthAverage Studio Size: 510 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 540 sq. ft.Portsmouth is a charming but small coastal city next to the Piscataqua River. Due to its size, rental options are limited compared to larger metros. As a result, renting in the city is pricier, as only 17 percent of rents are $2,000 or less. However, the lifestyle in Portsmouth is second to none, with its coastal and historic charm.Brick row buildings holding galleries and restaurants fill the waterfront in Downtown Portsmouth. Around Market Square, theaters and live music venues keep the streets packed well into the night. Walk down to South Mill Pond to enjoy greenery or catch a festival at Prescott Park.Boston, MassachusettsAverage Columbia Point Studio Rent: $1,879/monthAverage Columbia Point Studio Size: 520 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 553 sq. ft.Renters love the classic New England charm and big-city offerings in Boston. Since it offers a lifestyle like no other city, rents run high, as only about 12 percent are $2,000 or less. Still, affordable options can be found with a bit of perseverance and patience.Get the waterfront living that Boston is known for at a fraction of the price in Columbia Point. Studios average around $1,932, and renters get front-row access to UMass Boston, the JFK Library, and the scenic Harborwalk. With beaches, parks, and miles of bike paths nearby, it’s the perfect place to spend weekends outside.Burlington, VermontAverage Studio Rent: $1,724/monthAverage Studio Size: 462 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 805 sq. ft.One of the most beautiful cities in Vermont, Burlington is set in the Green Mountain range on the edge of Lake Champlain. This picturesque city doesn’t break the bank, with 66 percent of rent under $2,000. Whether you’re looking for city living or waterfront neighborhoods, you can find it under budget in Burlington.Live close to Downtown Burlington in Old North End, where studios rent for an average of $1,737 a month. You’ll be within walking distance of local eateries, theaters, grocery stores, and weekly farmers markets. Stroll over to Church Street’s lively shops and restaurants. Each side of the neighborhood has its own draw, with the University of Vermont to the east and the waterfront, parks, and the Island Line Trail to the west.Providence, Rhode IslandAverage Studio Rent: $1,750/monthAverage Studio Size: 621 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 684 sq. ft.Living in Providence means being surrounded by history, from Colonial and Victorian architecture to museums telling stories of the past. That timeless charm comes with flexibility since 48 percent of rent is $2,000 or less.Federal Hill, Providence’s Little Italy, keeps the night alive with restaurants and nightlife along Atwells Avenue, where studios average about $1,990 per month. North of Downtown, Mt. Hope is a relaxed neighborhood close to Brown University and the College Hill dining scene, with two-bedroom apartments averaging $1,835.NortheastThe Northeast balances grit and culture, with industrial roots reshaped into neighborhoods alive with art, food, and history. Buffalo’s revitalized waterfront, Pittsburgh’s creative corridors, the Bronx’s restless energy, Philadelphia’s cobblestone charm, and Baltimore’s eclectic harbor all tell their own stories of reinvention. Across the region, renters can still find space, character, and walkable city living without losing that unmistakable Northeastern touch. Apartments.com Buffalo, New YorkAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,583/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,101 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,391 sq. ft.Buffalo is a Great Lakes city on Lake Erie that enjoys winter wonderlands and beautiful summers. A rent budget of $2,000 goes a long way in the city, where 92 percent of rent is equal to or less than that amount. Yet the city is overflowing with energy as residents frequent waterfront parks, museums, and a growing downtown of restaurants and venues.Downtown Buffalo has two-bedroom apartments for $1,751 a month. This puts you next to the fun of Canalside, breweries, KeyBank Center, and annual events, such as the Taste of Buffalo. Black Rock is a historic neighborhood known for its artsy vibes, breweries, and walkable streets lined with galleries and cafés. Three-bedroom apartments in Black Rock hover around $1,797. Live next to Buffalo State University, Delaware Park, and cultural destinations like the Buffalo AKG Art Museum.Bronx, New YorkAverage One-Bedroom Rent: $1,643/monthAverage One-Bedroom Size: 509 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 620 sq. ft.In New York City, space is a luxury, and it’ll cost you, depending on the borough. While Manhattan and Brooklyn command sky-high rents, the Bronx still offers a rare find: the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,643 per month. Though finding rents lower than $2,000 is like looking for a needle in a haystack in New York, 76 percent of rents are actually under $2,000 in the Bronx. This allows you to find the perfect place in the perfect borough.Leave the city behind by living in a studio in Fieldston, where the average rent is $1,737. At the northern end of the Red Line, high-rises melt away to the greenery of Van Cortlandt Park. Belmont, the “Little Italy of the Bronx,” has strong community roots and an authentic Italian heritage. Two-bedroom apartments renting for $1,938 a month are centered around Arthur Avenue and its family-run bakeries and restaurants. You’ll also be near Fordham University, the Bronx Zoo, and the New York Botanical Garden.Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaAverage One-Bedroom Rent: $1,731/monthAverage One-Bedroom Size: 668 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 772 sq. ft.Every street in Philadelphia is filled with one of the many unique cultural identities of the city, whether it’s history, sports, or food. Nearly 80 percent of rentals fall below $2,000, giving renters room to choose between downtown convenience and more spacious apartments in the suburbs.Center City West puts Philadelphia’s history, art, and nightlife at your doorstep with the Liberty Bell and Independence National Historical Park next to theaters and galleries. The average monthly price for a studio is $1,835 a month for this walkable paradise. Across the Schuylkill River, Spruce Hill balances city access with small-town charm. One-bedroom apartments for around $1,564 are just minutes from Center City, the University of Pennsylvania, and Fairmount Park.Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,911/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,211 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1267 sq. ft.Old steel mills have given way to sleek tech hubs and educational institutions in Pittsburgh. At the $2,000 price point, you’re comfortably above the city’s average rent for a three-bedroom apartment, which sits around $1,903 per month. Even better, roughly 88 percent of local rentals fall at or below $2,000, giving you plenty of room to find the right fit without stretching your budget.Live in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle in Market Square, where PNC Park, Heinz Hall, and top spots along Penn Avenue are only a short walk away. You don’t have to sacrifice space; the average rent for a one-bedroom is $1,605 per month. In Squirrel Hill South, one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, two-bedroom apartments usually go for $1,647 a month. The neighborhood lies between Schenley and Frick Park, and nearby Carnegie Mellon University adds world-class museums and live performances to the mix.Baltimore, MarylandAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,884/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,169 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1241 sq. ft.Baltimore's roots come from being a major port town on the Patapsco River that flows into Chesapeake Bay. The city continues to honor its past and maritime heritage with many historic landmarks and districts. With a $2,000 monthly budget, renters can take their pick, from downtown lofts with skyline views to historic townhouses. And with 87 percent of the city’s rentals meeting that price, renters are able to explore the best neighborhoods in Baltimore.Historic Baltimore shows character on every block, with 19th-century architecture and landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Inner Harbor. Live in history and style, a two-bedroom apartment averages $1,933 per month. Meanwhile, Charles Village delivers a classic Baltimore feel with a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy weekend farmers markets and short trips to nearby Wyman Park, the Baltimore Museum of Art, and Johns Hopkins University for the reasonable price of $1,620 per month for a two-bedroom apartment.MidwestOnce defined by manufacturing and industrialism, the Midwest is rewriting its story. It’s now powered by food, tech, and culture. Renters are taking notice of Chicago’s growing food scene and Cleveland’s dedication to the arts. With affordable rents and a renewed sense of purpose, the Midwest proves that reinvention doesn’t have to come at the cost of community or character. Apartments.com Cleveland, OhioAverage Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,596/monthAverage Two-Bedroom Size: 995 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,247 sq. ft.Cleveland adds an artsy twist to industrial with converted warehouses turned into galleries, theaters, and trendy lofts. Style comes with space, as two-bedroom apartments have an average rent of $1,596 a month. The city lets you leave worries about budget behind with 92 percent of rentals $2,000 or below in price.$1,605 a month secures a one-bedroom in Public Square, steps from seasonal markets, concerts, and Playhouse Square, the nation’s largest performing arts center outside New York City. Farther east but every bit as lively, University Circle contains cultural landmarks like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History, as well as Case Western Reserve University. The compactness comes at a premium, with one-bedroom apartments renting for $1,771 per month.Cincinnati, OhioAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,704/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,264 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,484 sq. ft.Along the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati is an affordable city where a lower budget can get you a lot of space. With 96 percent of rentals priced at $2,000 or less, renters have plenty of options across the city’s most desirable neighborhoods. You can typically find a three-bedroom apartment going for $1,704.City Center is walkable to Smale Riverfront Park, Paycor Stadium, and the Taft Museum of Art. One-bedrooms typically cost $1,653. Clifton pairs historic homes in quiet neighborhoods with modern apartments near the University of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. Larger options are common, with a two-bedroom apartment renting for an average of $1,342 a month.Indianapolis, IndianaAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,539/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,291 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,678 sq. ft.Indianapolis is built on the backbone of racing and powered by innovation. From the roar of the Indy 500 to the steady hum of growing tech startups, the city runs on momentum. And for renters, that energy comes with surprising affordability: 97 percent of rents are priced $2,000 or less, and a three-bedroom apartment averages $1,539 a month.Downtown Indianapolis delivers the energy of a big city with the comfort of a spacious home, with two bedrooms averaging $1,880 a month. The district’s walkable streets make it easy to get to restaurants, scenic canal paths, and cultural landmarks like the Indiana State Museum. For a more affordable neighborhood, Near Westside offers three bedrooms for $1,422 per month. The Central White River Trail, alongside the neighborhood, connects to the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens.Chicago, IllinoisAverage One-Bedroom Rent: $1,951/monthAverage One-Bedroom Size: 662 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 679 sq. ft.Set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline defines Midwestern city life. Though it is a large metropolitan area, Chicago is still more affordable compared to its coastal counterparts, with 77 percent of apartments priced at $2,000 or less. Chicago rentals may not be as spacious as those in small towns, but you can get a one-bedroom for about $1,951 per month.In River North, studios average around $1,682 per month, a great deal for a home in a walkable setting near downtown. The Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier put Chicago’s best shopping, dining, and lakefront views within arm’s reach. Hyde Park delivers lakefront living and historic architecture at a low price. One-bedroom apartments average around $1,623 per month, placing renters steps from the University of Chicago, Washington Park, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, and miles of scenic waterfront trails and parks.Saint Louis, MissouriAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,602/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,262 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,591 sq. ft.With its skyline crowned by the Gateway Arch, Saint Louis imbues every block with history and creativity. That Saint Louis spirit comes at an unbeatable price, with 94 percent of apartments priced at $2,000 or less. Large three-bedroom rentals are even within the price range, as they average $1,602 per month.Live in the heart of Downtown Saint Louis in Downtown West, where two-bedroom apartments cost $1,624 a month. Views of the Gateway Arch, the Gateway Mall, City Museum, Busch Stadium, and Stifel Theater are a part of daily life. Central West End gets you close to Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo, the art museum, and countless trails for $1,924 a month for a two-bedroom apartment.SoutheastLife in the Southeast goes along with your pace; slow when you want it to be, lively when you don’t. Jazz spills into the streets, magnolias lean over wrought-iron balconies, and the scent of barbecue drifts past murals and high-rises. In cities like Memphis, Birmingham, and Houston, history isn’t a backdrop but an integral part of the city, running through the cobblestones and neon lights. Welcoming communities and unmistakable Southern energy make the region one of the most magnetic places to live. Apartments.com Louisville, KentuckyAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,668/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,326 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,590 sq. ft.Set along the Ohio River and famous for bourbon, baseball bats, and the Kentucky Derby, Louisville pairs Southern charm with city fun. A lower budget stretches impressively far compared to many bigger cities. Renters can find spacious three-bedroom apartments averaging about $1,678 per month. In fact, 97 percent of Louisville apartments rent for $2,000 or less.Two-bedroom apartments in the Fourth Street neighborhood average around $1,757 per month. The area’s walkability makes it ideal to be close to the city’s best dining, music, and nightlife. Catch a show, grab a bat, and toast the night away at the Kentucky Center, Slugger Field, and Whiskey Row. For a quieter setting, Old Louisville delivers history and suburban calm. A three-bedroom rental will cost you about $1,239, placing you among the largest collection of Victorian homes in the country.Memphis, TennesseeAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,290/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,292 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 2,009 sq. ft.Memphis moves to its own rhythm as the city is steeped in the sound of blues, soul, and rock ’n’ roll. It’s one of the South’s most affordable big cities as well as one with unmistakable character. The average rent for a three-bedroom runs about $1,286 per month, and roughly 98 percent of rentals cost $2,000 or less.Find two-bedroom apartments averaging about $1,689 per month in Downtown Memphis. You’ll be next to museums, landmarks, and live performance venues on Beale Street. Midtown Memphis keeps it chill while being next to downtown, the Memphis Zoo, Overton Park, and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Rentals in this neighborhood are quite affordable, as a three-bedroom will only run you about $1,388 per month.Jacksonville, FloridaAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,884/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,370 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,454 sq. ft.Where the St. Johns River meets miles of Atlantic shoreline, Jacksonville balances laid-back living and opportunity. The average three-bedroom apartment rents for about $1,884 per month, and roughly 93 percent of homes cost $2,000 or less, proof that life by the water doesn’t have to cost millions.In Northbank, you can live right on the St. Johns River next to the restaurants and shops along Bay Street. Watch the city’s expanding dining and entertainment scene for $1,662 per month for a two-bedroom apartment. Riverside delivers a community-focused vibe with its historic charm and walkable streets. One-bedroom apartments in this artsy district average about $1,392 and are surrounded by independent cafés, vintage shops, and the popular Riverside Arts Market.Birmingham, AlabamaAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,590/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,344 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,691 sq. ft.Atop Red Mountain resides Birmingham, a city that continually reinvents itself. From its steel-making roots, it is now a place of innovation, art, and food. The average three-bedroom rents for about $1,590 per month, and roughly 96 percent of apartments fall below $2,000.In Five Points South, two-bedroom apartments are available for an average of $1,546 a month, putting residents in historic buildings near the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and the area’s dining and entertainment. Mountain Brook delivers suburban calm with city convenience. Three-bedroom apartments average about $2,000 a month in a neighborhood renowned for its walkable village centers, cafes, and outdoor spaces, including Jemison Park and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.Houston, TexasAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,879/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,355 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,442 sq. ft.“Everything is bigger in Texas” is certainly true in Houston, where you can get a three-bedroom apartment for an average of $1,879 a month. With 93 percent of rentals priced at $2,000 or less, finding room to spread out is the expectation, not the exception.The Discovery Green neighborhood is alive at all times with streets packed with people heading to restaurants, concert venues, and sports arenas. One-bedroom apartments sit near the top of the budget at $1,876 a month, reflecting the area’s prime location and skyline views. Just south, the Museum District delivers culture and value with more than a dozen museums, Hermann Park, and scenic trails, while three-bedroom apartments average a more affordable $1,689.Energy Corridor is the place to find suburban life in Houston. Everything is packed in, so you don’t have to go far to find major employers, miles of trails through Terry Hershey Park and George Bush Park, or weekend farmers markets and festivals. Three-bedroom apartments average about $1,971 per month, offering an active lifestyle in one of west Houston’s most connected areas.SouthwestThe Southwest stretches from mountain skylines to desert valleys, where cities burn bright long after the sun goes down. Renters come for the light and stay for the lifestyle: Denver’s trails that lead straight into downtown, Phoenix’s endless sunshine, Las Vegas’s neon lights, and San Diego’s ocean breeze. Even Los Angeles finds its place, mixing creative ambition with that unmistakable California sprawl. Across the Southwest, $2,000 stretches into more space, more light, and a lifestyle built around open skies and endless possibilities. Apartments.com Denver, ColoradoAverage One-Bedroom Rent: $1,627/monthAverage One-Bedroom Size: 696 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 856 sq. ft.With the Rockies on the horizon, Denver centers around nature, but innovation has carved out its place in the landscape as renowned companies in many fields, including tech, have migrated to the city. One-bedroom apartments average about $1,636 per month, and roughly 85 percent of rentals are priced at $2,000 or less, showing that the Mile High City’s lifestyle doesn’t have to come with sky-high costs.LoDo rests at the confluence of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,983. This neighborhood backs right up to parks, trails, and the South Platte River, putting restaurants, shops, museums, and attractions all within a short walk. Congress Park is a pocket of calm and affordability, as two bedrooms cost around $1,838 a month. Live within walking distance of City Park, home to the Denver Zoo, Cheesman Park, and the Denver Botanic Gardens.Phoenix, ArizonaAverage Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,560/monthAverage Two-Bedroom Size: 967 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,240 sq. ft.With an average two-bedroom rent of $1,566 per month, Phoenix offers renters impressive value for a major metro area with year-round sunshine and a growing job market. About 92 percent of Phoenix apartments rent for $2,000 or less, giving renters a wide range of modern options in both downtown high-rises and suburban communities.Roosevelt Row draws renters to its creative energy, colorful murals, and First Friday art walks, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,820 in this walkable arts district. Midtown Phoenix offers more space without losing downtown convenience, since it sits near the light rail. A three-bedroom apartment costs around $1,991.Las Vegas, NevadaAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,854/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,248 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,346 sq. ft.The bright lights of the Strip meet the calm of the mountains in Las Vegas. With an average three-bedroom rent of $1,845 per month, Las Vegas offers renters impressive space and value for a city that is always exciting. About 95 percent of apartments in Las Vegas rent for $2,000 or less, giving renters a wide range of choices across the valley.Just east of the Strip, University District has three-bedroom apartments going for $1,500 a month. The neighborhood sits between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus and Harry Reid International Airport, making it ideal to be close to the Strip. Set against the backdrop of the Spring Mountains, the suburbs and desert meet in Summerlin. Two-bedroom apartments average around $1,714 a month, surrounded by public parks, hiking at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, and shopping and dining at Downtown Summerlin.San Diego, CaliforniaAverage Clairemont One-Bedroom Rent: $1,990/monthAverage Clairemont Size: 631 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000 in Clairemont: 634 sq. ft.Every day feels like a weekend getaway in San Diego, where you can taste the ocean in the air, and the sun is always shining. However, this vacation life comes at a price, as only 63 percent of San Diego rentals are priced at $2,000 or less per month. While premium neighborhoods like East Village and the Marina District in Downtown San Diego are typically above that price point, you can still find affordable options farther from downtown.Creative energy runs through North Park’s walkable streets, where vintage shops, murals, and microbreweries share space with tree-covered sidewalks. One-bedroom apartments averaging around $1,761 put renters close to Balboa Park’s scenic trails, museums, and gardens.Clairemont sits between the canyons and the coast, offering affordable living with one-bedroom apartments averaging about $1,990 a month, a good option for living near Mission Bay and Pacific Beach.Los Angeles, CaliforniaAverage Studio Rent: $1,701/monthAverage Studio Size: 452 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 531 sq. ft.Los Angeles lives up to the hype, with sun warming the sand, ocean breezes, and hillside views. This life comes with a high price tag, as apartments are known for being expensive. About 50 percent of rentals across the city list for $2,000 or less, giving renters solid choices in this price range. On average, studios go for around $1,706 per month.Downtown Los Angeles studios average just over $2,000, but nearby Koreatown offers one-bedrooms around $1,957 amid late-night BBQ spots, karaoke bars, and walkable streets full of character. Farther north, North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District is a creative playground of theaters, murals, dance studios, and coffeehouses, where one-bedrooms average $1,917, and renters enjoy a creative, transit-connected vibe.NorthwestThe Northwest is defined by towering evergreens beside tech campuses, indie art scenes framed by mountain skylines, and coffeehouses humming beneath gray skies. In Boise’s trails, Salt Lake City’s studios, Portland’s street art, and Tacoma’s industrial history, the Northwest reveals an identity of creativity and hard work.Seattle crowns it all, balancing innovation with quick escapes to peaks, forests, and saltwater views. It’s a region that never has to choose between the outdoors and city life, with opportunity wrapped in nature and a creative spirit. Apartments.com Salt Lake City, UtahAverage Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,826/monthAverage Two-Bedroom Size: 983 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,077 sq. ft.Framed by snow-capped peaks and crisp mountain air, Salt Lake City offers renters the best of both worlds, urban living with nature always in view. With a $2,000 monthly budget, renters can choose from a wide range of apartments, as 87 percent of local listings are priced at $2,000 or less. The average two-bedroom rents for around $1,826 a month, leaving plenty of room in the budget for weekend adventures in the Wasatch Range.In Central Salt Lake City, one-bedroom apartments average around $1,652 per month, ideal for those who want to live close to local restaurants, coffee shops, and the city’s expanding nightlife. East Central offers a charming alternative to downtown, where two-bedroom apartments, set among historic homes, cafes, and Liberty Park, average around $1,544.Boise, IdahoAverage Three-Bedroom Rent: $1,757/monthAverage Three-Bedroom Size: 1,265 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,440 sq. ft.At the base of the Rockies, Boise thrives on outdoor adventure and a growing city energy. Its revitalized downtown buzzes with energy, where locals take full advantage of the city’s rivers, trails, and mountain views. About 93 percent of apartments are priced at $2,000 or less, and the average three-bedroom rents for around $1,852, providing lots of value for renters who want extra space without stretching their budget.Downtown Boise is the city’s energetic core, where one-bedroom apartments average around $1,666 per month. Morning coffee turns into afternoon brewery hops and evening gallery walks in this easily walkable area. High-rises stand next to historic buildings, where renters can find an apartment that suits their style while being close to work, nightlife, and cultural events like the Boise Farmers Market or First Thursday art walks.Portland, OregonAverage Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,816/monthAverage Two-Bedroom Size: 922 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,015 sq. ft.Quirky, green, and endlessly creative, Portland wears its personality on every block, from mural-covered coffee shops to the scent of rain on pine-lined streets. For a big city, there is a surprising number of budget-friendly rentals, as 93 percent are priced at $2,000 or less. You also get a good amount of space with two-bedroom apartments averaging $1,816 a month.Waterfront offers classic Portland living: river views, open green spaces, and a calendar packed with festivals and events. For living in the heart of downtown, rent is affordable with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,670 per month. Trade downtown’s hustle and bustle for historic-yet-hip charm by finding a one-bedroom in Uptown Portland. For $1,671 a month, live next to NW 21st and 23rd avenues, where you’ll find local cafés, wine bars, and restaurants.Tacoma, WashingtonAverage Two-Bedroom Rent: $1,771/monthAverage Two-Bedroom Size: 932 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 1,053 sq. ft.Tacoma may sit in Seattle’s shadow on the map, but it shines in its own right as a city where art, industry, and the Puget Sound meet. About 93 percent of Tacoma’s apartments rent for $2,000 or less, giving most renters plenty of options to match their lifestyle and budget. The average two-bedroom goes for around $1,769 a month, making this waterfront city one of Puget Sound’s most affordable hubs.Downtown Tacoma is the place to be in the city, hosting year-round festivals and a growing selection of shops and restaurants on Pacific Avenue and Broadway. Renters can live steps from it all as the average one-bedroom rent is $1,778 per month. For about $1,984, you can live in a two-bedroom apartment in Stadium District on sidewalk-lined streets shaded by oak and maple trees. Walk past manicured lawns and blooming gardens to Wright Park’s trails, trees, and glass conservatory.Seattle, WashingtonAverage Studio Rent: $1,511/monthAverage Studio Size: 405 sq. ft.Average Size for $2,000: 536 sq. ft.Seattle is more than a tech powerhouse; it’s where the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and city life converge. While prices can run high, 73 percent of apartments across the city rent for $2,000 or less, so you can find the right home with a bit of searching. Studios are the most affordable option at an average of $1,511 a month, making them a gateway to some of Seattle’s most iconic neighborhoods.Belltown has studios averaging $1,566 with skyline and Elliott Bay views, plus short walks or bike rides to Pike Place Market, the Seattle Center, and the Space Needle. North in the University District, powered by the University of Washington’s energy, one-bedrooms average $1,778 in between coffee shops, bookstores, vintage stores, and green spaces like the Burke-Gilman Trail.Find Your Next Apartment in Your BudgetFinding the right apartment starts with understanding your budget and the average rent in your area. With a cost-of-living calculator, you can estimate monthly expenses, compare cities, and make informed decisions before signing a lease. Whether you’re exploring new neighborhoods or upgrading your space, having a clear view of costs helps you plan with confidence.MethodologyAll rent data is from Apartments.com. Data was gathered in October 2025 and may change over time.FAQsIs $2,000 a competitive rent budget in 2025?Yes, $2,000 is above the national one-bedroom average, so it’s competitive in most places except for some of the toughest markets.What apartment size does $2,000 usually get nationwide?In big cities, $2,000 can land a large one-bedroom or standard two-bedroom; in smaller cities, three-bedroom rentals are common at this price.This story was produced by Apartments.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Where e-scooters are legal and where they’re restricted in the US Where e-scooters are legal and where they’re restricted in the USElectric scooters have gone from novelty to everyday transportation in many American cities, but the rules governing where they can be ridden still vary sharply from state to state. The result is a patchwork of laws that can change from one jurisdiction to the next, with differences over speed limits, helmet rules, minimum rider ages, sidewalk riding, and whether local governments can make their own restrictions.Most states that have addressed e-scooters in law now treat them as a distinct type of micromobility device rather than as mopeds or motorcycles. But “legal” does not always mean riders can use them everywhere. In many places, state law allows e-scooters on certain streets or bike facilities while leaving cities and counties free to decide whether they belong on sidewalks, trails, or higher-speed roads.THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, a personal injury law firm, reviewed state transportation statutes and agency guidance, as well as national legislative and safety data, regarding e-scooter laws.A growing number of states now have e-scooter laws on the booksAccording to NCSL’s latest 50-state legislative review, 28 states and Washington D.C., have enacted e-scooter laws addressing issues such as minimum age, speed, and roadway use. Those states are:AlabamaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutFloridaHawai'iIllinoisIndianaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMarylandMinnesotaMississippiNew JerseyNevadaNew YorkOklahomaOregonSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVirginiaWashingtonWisconsinThat still leaves a split national landscape. In states that have passed micromobility laws, riders usually get a clearer answer about where e-scooters fit. Elsewhere, riders can run into older vehicle codes that were written before stand-up scooters became common, or into rules that effectively bar them from public roads because they cannot be registered like other motor vehicles.Where e-scooters are clearly legal, riders still face tight limitsCalifornia is one example of a state where e-scooters are clearly legal but tightly regulated. The California Highway Patrol says scooters may not exceed 15 mph. They may be used on a bicycle path, trail, or bikeway unless prohibited, and on roads over 25 mph only if the rider uses a Class II bicycle lane. California also requires a Class C driver's license or permit, helmets, and a minimum rider age of 16.Nevada statute is also fairly clear on where scooters can be used. Under NRS 484B.785, an electric scooter may be operated on a roadway, bicycle lane, path, or route at no more than 15 mph, and on a sidewalk or other pedestrian area at whatever speed limit is set by local ordinance, if any. The same statute says e-scooters are generally subject to the laws that apply to bicycles and electric bicycles.New York also allows e-scooters, but not everywhere. The state DMV says riders can operate them on streets and highways with posted speed limits of 30 mph or less, while municipalities can impose additional rules on the time, place, and manner of operation. Sidewalk riding is prohibited unless a local law permits it, and the DMV notes that operating an e-scooter at speeds above 15 mph is illegal. In New York City, the Department of Transportation says scooters may be ridden in bike lanes and on streets with speed limits of 30 mph or less, but not on sidewalks.Florida takes a somewhat more permissive statewide approach. Under Florida Statute 316.2128, operators of motorized scooters and micromobility devices have the same rights and duties as bicycle riders in most respects, and the law says riders do not need a driver's license, vehicle registration, or insurance solely to operate one. But the same statute also preserves local authority to regulate or restrict where scooters can be used on streets, highways, sidewalks, and sidewalk areas.New Jersey’s micromobility rules likewise reflect that in-between approach. State guidance says low-speed electric scooters are not subject to a minimum age requirement under state law, though helmet rules apply to riders under 17, and local governments may create additional operating rules.Sidewalks remain one of the biggest dividing linesOne of the biggest legal fault lines is whether e-scooters belong on sidewalks. NCSL’s review found that Minnesota does not permit e-scooters on sidewalks except when needed to enter or leave property, while 11 states allow local governments to decide whether sidewalk riding is permittedHawai'iIllinoisIndianaKansasLouisianaMarylandNevadaNew YorkTexasUtahVirginiaThat distinction matters because available safety research suggests riders often shift between roadways, bike lanes, and sidewalks depending on traffic conditions and local rules. NCSL, citing federal and academic research, says 63% of injuries in one CPSC report occurred on roadways versus 29% on sidewalks, while riders often choose sidewalks when bike lanes are unavailable, and vehicle traffic feels heavy. NHTSA has also noted that many e-scooter crashes are single-vehicle incidents that occur on sidewalks or in areas with poor pavement conditions.In some states, public road use remains heavily restrictedNot every state has embraced e-scooters as a standard mode of transportation. In Pennsylvania, PennDOT says a motorized scooter is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an engine or electric motor without a seat or saddle. Because those vehicles do not comply with the state’s equipment and inspection requirements for motor vehicles, PennDOT adds that they cannot be titled or registered in the commonwealth and cannot be operated on Pennsylvania roadways or sidewalks.Delaware also remains restrictive. Under Delaware law, “motorized skateboards or scooters” generally may not be operated on a public highway, street, sidewalk, or right-of-way in the state, with narrow exceptions spelled out in statute.Those rules underscore a broader point in the U.S. e-scooter landscape: in some states, the central legal question is how scooters may be used, while in others it is whether they can be used on public ways at all.Why the legal map is still shiftingThe pace of lawmaking suggests the issue is still evolving. NCSL says most states that have enacted e-scooter laws did so only in recent years, with 18 passing legislation in 2019 alone and several others revising their rules since 2020. The same report says lawmakers have focused on speed, roadway access, age minimums, and operator behavior as states try to fit a newer device into transportation systems built around cars, bikes, and pedestrians.That legal uncertainty comes as injuries continue to draw public attention. The CPSC said micromobility-related injuries rose nearly 21% in 2022 from 2021, and its safety center warns that emergency room-treated injuries and deaths tied to e-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards have been increasing.For riders, that means the answer to whether e-scooters are “legal” in the U.S. is often yes, but only on certain streets, at certain speeds, under certain age and helmet rules, and sometimes only if a city has chosen to allow it. In practice, the safest assumption is that legality does not travel well across state lines, and sometimes not even across town lines. This story was produced by THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad City Fire Wire debuts scholarship program for aspiring EMTs The popular Facebook page became a nonprofit earlier this year to support QCA fire, EMT and first responder crews. Here's how to apply for their first scholarship.
	8 architecture and culture groups sue Trump and the Kennedy Center board The groups, which include the American Institute of Architects, are asking for compliance with historic preservation laws and to secure approval from Congress.
	The best and worst states for accessing novel treatment trials The best and worst states for accessing novel treatment trialsThere are more medical treatments available today than ever before, and yet each day, someone new is diagnosed with a condition for which effective treatments are not publicly available.For folks in this position, there remains hope that a novel treatment exists within the thousands of clinical trials happening around the U.S. Clinical trials are the primary catalyst for medical progress. They are the conduit for turning ideas into treatments.But whether or not a patient can get access to the right trial has a lot to do with their location.Clinical trials are concentrated much more heavily in states that host the research hospitals, physician networks, and federal funding to support them. And that means that where you live dictates your access to care today, as well as how long it takes new treatments to reach you in the future.This analysis looks at which states are running the most clinical trials, which are lagging, and what that geographic gap means for patients. This analysis was created by Kivo, a document, content, and process management platform designed for modern pharma teams.What Clinical Trial Activity Actually MeasuresNot all clinical trial volume is equal. A state can have thousands of registered trials without being a meaningful hub for patient enrollment. For this analysis, we focused on trials that are currently open and seeking participants, normalized per one million residents to allow fair comparison across states of very different sizes.The data comes from ClinicalTrials.gov, the NIH's public registry of federally and privately supported clinical studies.Active trial counts were captured for all 50 states.Population figures were drawn from U.S. Census estimates via the FRED database.The resulting access score reflects two things: active trial volume and trial density per capita. Together, they give a picture of where clinical trials are most accessible around the U.S.States With The Best Access To Clinical Trials Kivo The 10 states ranking highest in access to clinical trials include:Massachusetts — 1,249.2California — 1,188.8New York — 1,158.9Maryland — 997.2Pennsylvania — 955.3Texas — 813.3Illinois — 796.0Connecticut — 790.3Ohio — 748.7North Carolina — 727.1Massachusetts wins the top access score by a fair margin. Not only does it rank first in active clinical trials per capita, but it also ranks fifth in total active trials. The state's top-rated trial access is due in large part to it being home to some of the most important medical research institutions in the world, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and the Brigham and Women's Hospital.California, New York, and Texas place high in the rankings off the back of sheer volume. Despite one of the lowest trial rates per capita in the country, California's 2,160 active trials dwarf the competition. New York hosts the second-most trials (1,660) while also boasting a high trial rate per capita. Texas shares California's bottom-tier rate per capita but comes in third for total trials, with 1,390.A patient in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or New York City will have access to a concentration of trials that few places in the world can match, and around half of Texas lives within a one-hour drive of research hubs in Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio.Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut also showing up in the top 10 demonstrates the exceptional healthcare and medical research access within the Northeastern United States.Finally, Ohio, Illinois, and North Carolina's presence proves that states don't need to boast massive population centers in order to build exceptional medical research infrastructure.When More Trials Doesn't Mean Better AccessRaw trial count can be misleading. California ranks second overall with 2,160 active trials, but with nearly 40 million residents, it sits 47th in the country on a per-capita basis. Texas ranks sixth overall despite ranking 49th per capita. Florida runs 945 active trials and still finishes last in per-capita access.One reason for this is that population growth in these states has consistently outpaced the expansion of research infrastructure. California has gained roughly 10 million residents since 2000. Texas has added more than 12 million. The medical research infrastructure in these states has been unable to keep pace, and in Texas' case, neither has the broader healthcare infrastructure.This can often create two vastly different experiences for residents in large states. A patient in or near a large urban area like Los Angeles, Houston, or Miami will have access to world-class research hospitals running hundreds of active studies.Meanwhile, a patient three hours away in rural East Texas or the Florida Panhandle is working with an entirely different set of options. The statewide average fails to tell either story accurately, and that is one of the biggest limitations of ranking access by state.Texas illustrates this tension better than anywhere else. Despite its low per-capita ranking, roughly half of the state's population lives within an hour's drive of major research hubs in Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin, or San Antonio. For those residents, access is genuinely strong. For the other half, spread across 254 counties in a state larger than any country in Western Europe, access feels closer to the states making up the bottom of our ranking.The States Falling Behind Kivo The 10 states with the lowest access scores are:Arkansas — 457.1Kansas — 445.9Hawai’i — 433.4New Mexico — 431.1Montana — 421.8Oklahoma — 417.0Alaska — 412.6Idaho — 378.3Wyoming — 360.5Mississippi — 348With only 142 active trials, despite a population of nearly three million, Mississippi ranks in the bottom three in access per capita and gets the lowest access score on our list. As might be expected from a state that has consistently refused to invest in healthcare and medical research, Mississippi also ranks near the top of the list for cancer mortality and chronic disease burden.Arkansas joins Mississippi in representing the worst trial access in the Southern United States for essentially the same reasons: a sizable population with a very small number of active trials.Wyoming and Alaska find their way to the bottom of the list in large part due to their tiny populations. With under a million residents, very little medical research infrastructure exists in these states, and as a result, they make up the bottom two spots in total active trials, with fewer than 50 in either state.Oklahoma, Montana, New Mexico, and Kansas join Mississippi and Arkansas as states where long-term failure to invest in medical infrastructure has resulted in both low trial access and generally low healthcare scores across numerous studies.And finally, Idaho and Hawai’i demonstrate that healthcare infrastructure and medical research infrastructure are not always equivalent. These states boast top-20 scores for healthcare while still showing up in the bottom 10 for clinical trial access, likely due to their more remote locations relative to coastal research hubs.What Conditions Are Being Studied?Cancer research is the dominant focus among active clinical trials today, and that should come as no surprise, as cancer has been one of the top two leading causes of death in the U.S. for the last 75 years.More than a third of all actively recruiting trials are focused on oncology, driven largely by NCI funding and the network of cancer centers that receive it. Most of the states with top access scores, like Massachusetts, Maryland, and New York, are home to multiple NCI-designated centers.Heart disease, neurological conditions, and rare diseases make up a significant share of the remaining studies. Rare disease trials in particular tend to stay close to large academic medical centers, since the patient populations are small and the diagnostic work requires specialized equipment and expertise.The hardest cases are the states with both serious disease burdens and limited trial access. Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas have some of the highest cancer mortality and chronic illness rates in the country, which means patients in those states are dealing with some of the most pressing health needs while having below-average access to healthcare and the clinical studies that might offer them help.What This Means for Patients and PolicymakersFor patients, it’s important to understand that where you live affects your chances of joining a trial. Once you know that, you can start looking for options beyond your local area.Some programs now let patients take part in trials remotely, using telehealth visits instead of driving to a research hospital. These options are growing, but they haven't reached everyone yet.For lawmakers and healthcare leaders, the message is clear. States that train more doctors, support major research hospitals, and build stronger health systems are both helping patients today and ensuring residents have timely access to the next generation of treatments.This story was produced by Kivo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why a $50,000 settlement isn’t what it used to be: The quiet shift in US civil courts Why a $50,000 settlement isn’t what it used to be: The quiet shift in US civil courtsOn paper, a $50,000 settlement still sounds substantial. In reality, many attorneys, insurers, and plaintiffs say the figure carries far less weight than it once did.Civil litigation in the United States has quietly evolved over the past decade. Rising medical costs, inflation, and shifting legal dynamics have changed how courts and insurers value injury claims and other civil damages. What might once have been considered a meaningful resolution for a moderate injury or dispute may now cover only a fraction of the financial burden associated with medical care, lost wages, or long-term recovery.To better understand how compensation expectations have shifted, Temple Injury Law, a personal injury law firm, examined publicly available data on settlement trends, court filings, and the broader economic forces shaping civil litigation across the United States.Most cases never reach a courtroomMany personal injury cases settle before reaching a jury, often through negotiations between attorneys and insurance companies.This reliance on settlements has become central to how the civil justice system functions. Negotiated outcomes typically save both parties time and legal costs, but they also mean that settlement values effectively determine how compensation works in practice.Even among cases that do proceed to court, damages can vary dramatically depending on the type of claim and jurisdiction. Historically, median jury awards have ranged widely from tens of thousands of dollars in some auto accident cases to hundreds of thousands in complex malpractice or product liability claims.With such variation, settlement figures often serve as the benchmark attorneys use to estimate a claim's potential value.Inflation is reshaping the meaning of damagesOne reason settlements may feel smaller today is straightforward: inflation.While everyday consumer prices have risen sharply in recent years, litigation costs and claim values have also climbed. Researchers and insurers often refer to this phenomenon as social inflation, a term that describes rising legal costs driven by larger jury awards, changing litigation strategies, and increasing claim severity.Between 2017 and 2022, social inflation in the United States rose by about 5.4% annually, outpacing general economic inflation, which averaged roughly 3.7% during the same period. These trends mean that settlement figures that might once have covered medical bills, rehabilitation, and income loss may no longer stretch as far as they did.Medical expenses illustrate the shift particularly well. According to the American Medical Association, healthcare costs have consistently increased faster than overall inflation for many years, meaning injury-related care, from hospital visits to physical therapy, can rapidly consume a settlement amount that might once have seemed generous.The numbers behind modern settlementsPrecise settlement figures are difficult to track because most agreements remain confidential. Severe injuries, permanent disability, or large medical expenses can drive settlements far higher, while smaller claims may resolve for significantly less. Fewer cases, but complex litigation remainsAnother factor shaping settlement expectations is the changing volume of civil cases. According to the U.S. Courts, civil case filings in federal district courts fell 22% in 2025, in part due to fluctuations in large multidistrict litigation cases.Personal injury and product liability filings, which can generate large settlements or verdicts, declined sharply after the resolution of major mass-tort cases that previously dominated court dockets.Yet, even as the number of filings shifts from year to year, the financial stakes involved in many cases have grown. Legal analysts have noted a rise in “nuclear verdicts” (jury awards exceeding $10 million), which can reshape settlement negotiations across entire industries.Those large awards remain rare but influence how insurers and attorneys evaluate risk in more typical cases.Why settlement values fluctuate so widelySeveral forces contribute to how civil claims are valued today.Medical costs: Treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care often make up the largest share of damages in injury cases.Insurance dynamics: Liability insurers closely track court trends, adjusting settlement strategies based on verdict patterns and litigation risks.Economic pressures: Wage growth, inflation, and rising costs of living can all influence the damages sought in civil lawsuits.Legal strategies: The increasing complexity of litigation, including expert testimony, electronic discovery, and case financing, can push both parties toward negotiated settlements.What the shift means for plaintiffs and courtsFor individuals involved in civil disputes, the changing value of settlements can affect how cases are evaluated from the start.Attorneys must balance the uncertain outcome of a trial with the practical limits of settlement negotiations, while plaintiffs weigh immediate financial relief against the possibility of higher but less certain awards in court.At the same time, courts continue to rely on settlements to manage crowded dockets. When most disputes are resolved outside the courtroom, negotiated compensation effectively becomes the system’s primary mechanism for delivering civil justice.The result is a quiet recalibration of expectations. A settlement figure that once signified meaningful compensation may now serve only as a starting point in a legal landscape shaped by rising costs, shifting litigation strategies, and evolving economic realities.This story was produced by Temple Injury Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Spring allergies in dogs: What pet parents should know when pollen season arrives Spring allergies in dogs: What pet parents should know when pollen season arrivesSpring brings a lot of things dogs love: longer walks, open windows, afternoons in the park, and yards full of new smells. For many people, though, the season also means tissues in every pocket and a constant check of the pollen forecast.What many dog parents don’t realize is that allergy season affects dogs, too — just in a very different way.Instead of sneezing and watery eyes, dogs tend to show allergies through their skin. That means the first signs are often things like itchy paws, ear infections, or a dog rubbing their face along the carpet. A pup that seemed perfectly comfortable all winter may suddenly start scratching constantly once spring arrives.Veterinarians say this is extremely common. Environmental allergies — often called atopic dermatitis — are among the most frequent chronic conditions seen in dogs. Research from the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine suggests that roughly 10%–20% of dogs experience environmental allergies at some point in their lives, with pollen, grasses, and mold among the most common triggers.Because the symptoms don’t look the same as human allergies, many pet parents don’t immediately recognize what’s happening. Below, Spot & Tango outlines what to watch for so seasonal allergies are easier to spot — and manage.Why Spring Triggers Allergies in DogsLike people, dogs have immune systems designed to protect them from harmful substances. But sometimes that system becomes a little overprotective.When dogs with environmental sensitivities encounter substances like pollen, mold spores, or grass particles, their immune systems can treat those harmless particles as threats. The body responds with inflammation, which shows up as itching, redness, and irritation.Spring creates the perfect conditions for these reactions.Trees release pollen first, followed by grasses and weeds as the season progresses. Wind carries those microscopic particles everywhere — through neighborhoods, into parks, and eventually into homes.Dogs also experience the outdoors differently from humans.While people mostly inhale pollen, dogs tend to collect allergens through their skin and fur. Running through grass, rolling in the yard, or simply walking along a pollen-covered sidewalk can leave allergens clinging to their paws, belly, and coat.That’s why many dogs with seasonal allergies develop irritation on the parts of their body that touch the ground most often.There’s another reason spring allergies can seem to appear suddenly: they often develop over time. Many dogs don’t show symptoms as puppies. Instead, sensitivities gradually build as their immune systems encounter the same allergens year after year.By the time a dog reaches young adulthood, those exposures can begin triggering noticeable seasonal reactions.Signs Your Dog Might Have Seasonal AllergiesOne of the biggest reasons spring allergies go unnoticed at first is that the symptoms can be subtle.Dogs rarely sneeze the way people do. Instead, allergies often show up as behavioral changes or skin irritation.Common signs include frequent scratching, especially around the neck, ears, or belly, and hot spots caused by repeated licking or scratching. Other signs include licking or chewing at the paws, red or irritated skin, recurring ear infections, or head shaking, watery or irritated eyes. Sometimes, allergies can even cause dogs to rub their face against furniture or carpet for relief.Paw licking is one of the most common early clues. During walks, pollen and grass particles easily collect between a dog’s toes. Once indoors, many dogs try to relieve the irritation by licking their feet — sometimes for long stretches.Ear infections can also appear during allergy season. Inflammation inside the ear canal can make dogs more susceptible to yeast or bacterial overgrowth.If these symptoms show up around the same time each year, particularly during peak pollen months, seasonal allergies may be the underlying cause.Why Allergies Often Appear on the Paws, Ears, and BellyAllergy symptoms in dogs tend to show up in very specific places.That’s largely because of how dogs interact with their environment: they run through grass, roll in the yard, sniff along sidewalks and shrubs, and lie down wherever something interesting smells. All of those behaviors bring their skin into contact with pollen, mold spores, and other environmental irritants.Because of this, allergic reactions often appear in areas where allergens collect most easily:Paws: Pollen and grass particles get trapped between the toes during walks.Belly and inner legs: These areas brush against grass and plants.Ears: Allergic inflammation can disrupt the ear canal and increase the risk of infections.Skin folds and armpits: Warm, moist areas of the body can become irritated more easily.Once the itching begins, a frustrating cycle can follow. Scratching and licking damage the skin barrier, which makes infections more likely — and infections often cause even more itching.That’s why veterinarians usually emphasize early management and prevention, rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.Simple Ways to Help Reduce Allergy Irritation at HomeWhile allergies can’t always be eliminated entirely, small habits can make a noticeable difference in how comfortable your dog feels during pollen season.Wipe paws after walksPollen and grass particles often stick between a dog’s toes. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe after outdoor time can remove many of those allergens before they irritate the skin.Bathe more frequently during allergy seasonRegular baths help wash away pollen and environmental debris that cling to your dog’s coat. Gentle shampoos formulated for sensitive skin can help soothe irritation while removing allergens.Wash bedding regularlyPollen settles on indoor fabrics just as easily as on outdoor surfaces. Washing dog beds, blankets, and favorite sleeping spots weekly during allergy season can help reduce ongoing exposure.Maintain outdoor areasKeeping grass trimmed and avoiding heavily overgrown areas can reduce how much pollen your dog encounters during playtime.Improve indoor air qualityAir purifiers and regularly replacing HVAC filters can help reduce the amount of pollen circulating inside your home — something both pets and people may appreciate.When It’s Time to Call the VetFor many dogs, seasonal allergies are manageable with small adjustments at home. But some dogs need additional support.It’s worth scheduling a veterinary visit if your dog experiences: constant scratching or chewing, inflamed or infected skin, frequent ear infections, open sores or hot spots, hair loss from excessive licking, or swelling around the face or eyes.Veterinarians have several treatment options available, including antihistamines, anti-inflammatory medications, medicated shampoos, and allergy testing. In some cases, long-term treatments like immunotherapy may be recommended to gradually desensitize the immune system.The goal isn’t just to stop the itching — it’s to prevent infections and skin damage that can develop when allergies go untreated.Spring Bee Stings: Another Seasonal HazardPollen isn’t the only thing that arrives in spring. So do bees — and for curious dogs, buzzing insects can be irresistible. Many pups try to chase or snap at bees, which sometimes ends with a painful sting.Most bee stings cause only mild symptoms, such as sudden yelping, swelling around the muzzle or paw, limping if the sting occurs on the foot, licking or chewing at the area, and redness or mild irritationIf a stinger is still visible, veterinarians often recommend gently scraping it away with a flat object like a credit card. Applying a cool compress can help reduce swelling. Some veterinarians may also recommend antihistamines, though it’s best to consult your vet before giving human medications.However, more serious reactions can occur in rare cases. Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog develops difficulty breathing, severe swelling around the face or throat, vomiting, or collapse, or widespread hivesFortunately, most bee encounters end with a startled yelp and a quick recovery.Can Diet Help Dogs With Seasonal Allergies?Environmental allergens like pollen are often the primary cause of spring allergies, but overall skin health can influence how strongly dogs react to those irritants.Healthy skin acts as a protective barrier. When that barrier is compromised — whether from dryness, inflammation, or poor nutrition — allergens may penetrate the skin more easily.Veterinarians often emphasize nutrients that support skin and coat health, including:Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation.High-quality protein, which supports skin repair.Vitamins and antioxidants, which help support immune function.While nutrition alone won’t eliminate environmental allergies, a thoughtfully balanced diet can help support the skin barrier and overall resilience.Helping Dogs Enjoy Spring AgainSpring should be one of the best times of the year for dogs. Long walks, sunny afternoons, and backyard playtime are some of the simple joys dogs wait for all winter. But for dogs dealing with seasonal allergies, those same activities can quickly become uncomfortable.The good news is that once pet parents recognize the signs, most allergy symptoms can be managed.By watching for early changes, reducing exposure to allergens, and working with a veterinarian when needed, you can help ensure your dog stays comfortable throughout the season. Because spring should be full of wagging tails — not itchy paws.This story was produced by Spot & Tango and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Riz Ahmed is his own worst critic. His new show 'Bait' explores that In his Prime Video series, Ahmed plays a struggling actor auditioning to be the next James Bond. Ahmed says Bond is a "symbol of aspiration, this unattainable kind of self" his character is pursuing.
	Raising stars: Family office lessons from Beyoncé and Serena Raising stars: Family office lessons from Beyoncé and SerenaBoth Beyoncé Knowles and Serena Williams emphasize core values and personal responsibility to prepare their children for future leadership roles.Their strategies for involving the next generation in family decisions can be useful models for other family offices looking to ensure children stay invested in the family’s legacy.Bernstein Private Wealth Management explores how these icons foster family unity and hard work, encouraging their children to make their own mark on the world.Imagine being at a concert where the stage transforms into a heartfelt family gathering. That’s exactly what happened during Beyoncé’s last two tours. She turned her performances into a masterclass on bringing the next generation into the family business, blending her incredible talent with the values she holds dear.Picture this: During her Cowboy Carter tour, Beyoncé sang “Protector” while locking eyes with her youngest daughter, Rumi, who was on stage for the first time. Her eldest daughter, Blue, stood by, guiding her sister with a gentle hand. As Beyoncé sang about protection and independence, it was clear she was doing more than just performing—she was teaching.This moment was like a modern-day family meeting, complete with a living family mission statement, where values like protection, guidance, and independence were all on display. By bringing her children into her world of music and performance, Beyoncé is not just nurturing their talents; she’s showing them the power of family unity, hard work, and using their voices for good.When Family Meetings Are More than Just a GatheringWhile Beyoncé might hold her family meetings on stage, there’s a lot to be said for having regular family gatherings at home. These meetings can serve as a platform to discuss goals, tackle challenges, and reinforce what your family stands for. They help everyone feel connected and accountable, instilling in children the value of mutual respect and collaboration. By incorporating governance concepts like family meetings and mission statements into family dynamics, you can create a nurturing environment that empowers children to become responsible, compassionate, and productive members of society.Teaching Financial Responsibility: The Serena and Alexis WayOne common concern for many families, especially those with wealth or fame: how do you raise children who aren’t spoiled? Whether you’re a celebrity or not, the principles remain the same.Serena Williams and her husband, Alexis Ohanian, are already teaching their 8-year-old daughter, Olympia, the ropes of money management. Instead of just handing her an allowance, they’ve set up a system where she earns $7 a week by doing chores like feeding her dog, tidying her clothes, and making her bed. Alexis even drew up a real contract to make it official. Why? They want Olympia to understand the connection between hard work and earning money, and the patience needed to save up for things she wants, like that coveted American Girl doll dress.With Serena’s incredible work ethic both on and off the tennis court—and Alexis’s success as a co-founder of Reddit—Olympia has two entrepreneurial role models to guide her. Despite their success, neither Serena nor Alexis grew up with wealth, and they’re navigating how to raise a grounded child in a world of abundance. “We’re trying to create that flywheel between doing the work and getting the money and then understanding that there are things you could want,” Ohanian noted in an interview for the podcast “Spolitics with Jemele Hill.” “Neither Serena nor I grew up with wealth, so that’s the other weird thing. We’re both trying to navigate how to create the circumstances for her to be … a functional adult, while also having resources that we couldn’t have imagined.”This story isn’t just about Olympia; it’s a reminder that it’s never too early—or too late—to start teaching kids about money and values. Many families struggle with revealing the magnitude of their wealth, fearing it might affect relationships or demotivate their children. But preparing the next generation for success involves more than just talking about money; it’s about sharing family values and expectations. Some families find that starting with an educational program for the younger generation is a great way to begin.How Family Offices Convey Shared ValuesOne often sees this level of intentionality when families organize their wealth via a family office. The key is to define the values that will serve as your family’s mission statement, acting as the glue that holds generations together. Icons like Beyoncé and Serena have already started down this path for their families—and provide a glimpse for others.Begin by identifying what truly matters to your family. A family office is more than just managing wealth; it’s about having a shared purpose across generations. Families focused on lasting wealth realize that understanding their “why” and creating the right “value allocation” is as important as managing their assets.Preserving family wealth requires preparation, thoughtfulness, and open communication. Ask yourselves: What is our purpose? What do we stand for? Who are we as a family? These questions help pinpoint the values that unite you. When a family is clear about their values, it sets the tone for how they think, feel, and act, ensuring they stay connected through future changes.Yet putting words to values is easier said than done. Families often benefit from a formal exercise to purposefully define their values in a hands-on way. By reflecting on their principles, they gain insight into what’s important to each family member. Conveying ideals can also help establish common ground and reveal disparities.From Values to ActionOnce you’ve identified and communicated your family’s values, you can weave them into your governance, philanthropy, estate planning, and investment strategies. Based on surveys of families with wealth ranging from $100 million to $4 billion, their biggest concern was ensuring the next generation doesn’t become “trust fund babies.” Yet, there’s also excitement about what the rising generation can achieve. And while athletes and entertainers often grab headlines, significant wealth can put any family in the spotlight, posing challenges for the next generation without proper guidance. By embracing these family office lessons, you too can nurture the potential of future leaders in your family, just as Beyoncé and Serena are doing with their own rising stars.The views expressed herein do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations, do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to change over time.This story was produced by Bernstein Private Wealth Management and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	QR Codes are here to stay: Are brands meeting expectations? QR Codes are here to stay: Are brands meeting expectations?QR Code engagement has plateaued.Uniqode's State of QR Codes 2026 found that 70% of consumers scan QR Codes monthly, and 47% report their scanning habits haven't changed. This stability signals a shift: QR Codes have moved from novelty to infrastructure.The question is no longer whether consumers will scan, but whether brands are treating QR Codes with the same rigor they apply to product design. When 75% of scans are driven by the need for information, every failed scan (whether from a dead link, slow page, or irrelevant promotional pop-up) erodes trust at the exact moment it matters most. In their mature adoption era, QR Codes should make every scan both useful and reliable.In this article, Uniqode dives into what consumers expect and how brands can meet those expectations in that moment, rather than losing them.What mature QR Code adoption demandsDespite widespread adoption, execution remains inconsistent. 36% of consumers have experienced improper scans, 29% have hit dead links, and 27% have waited through slow-loading pages. These aren't edge cases but symptoms of brands still treating QR Codes as marketing add-ons rather than core product infrastructure. Uniqode Most consumers are comfortable scanning when a QR Code is present. The gap isn't a lack of willingness but a lack of execution. The difference between a trusted QR Code and one that gets ignored comes down to scan reliability and contextual relevance.Here's what infrastructure-grade QR Code systems must deliver:Clear and context-specific information75% of consumers say gaining information is their primary reason for scanning, well ahead of discounts or payments. Also, 49% are likely to scan when the code clearly fits the context.The physical context of a QR Code should determine what a consumer sees after they scan it. Restaurant QR Codes that deliver menus work because they’re relevant to the consumer at the moment. Product packaging QR Codes work when they provide answers to product questions after purchase. Once the content matches the context, the scan feels intentional rather than forced.Consistent experience across touchpointsScanning occurs in familiar, everyday settings across various industries, and trust is built through repetition. According to the 1,000 consumers surveyed for the report, 55% said they are more likely to scan in trusted environments, and 42% look out for QR Codes that appear safe and legitimate. Uniqode Having the same branded codes repeated across packaging, receipts, signage, and websites is what creates trust here. When a consumer scans a QR Code on your packaging, they are borrowing trust from every other place they see your brand. A sloppy or off-brand experience can erode the trust you've earned, making the brand feel less trustworthy.Pages that load fastWhen people scan, they expect the page to open quickly and function smoothly.42% of consumers want QR Codes to load faster and work more reliably to improve the scanning experience.A QR Code feels sensible when the information behind it is swift to access. If the page is slow, breaks, or disappears later on, the scan feels unreliable. These delays do not just hurt that one interaction, but can stop repeated scans if they constantly happen.A scan that will lead somewhere usefulWith 47% of consumers saying their scanning habits haven’t changed, there’s a solid baseline of confidence for brands to build on.For consumers who scan to solve a problem or get information, their confidence grows in the brand when they know the QR Code will lead to what they need. Using QR Codes for promotions is not a problem; the risk arises when promotional destinations fail to meet consumer expectations after scanning and erode their confidence.Bridging the gap between consumer expectations and QR Code executionMany brands still deploy QR Codes as campaign accessories that are printed for a product launch, used in a seasonal promotion, and then abandoned once the campaign ends. This approach might have worked during the novelty phase, but it's fundamentally at odds with how consumers now use QR Codes.Closing the gap between mature scanning behavior and inconsistent brand execution requires treating QR Codes as permanent infrastructure rather than temporary marketing tactics. Here's how:Make information the first valueConsumers scan first because they need something. That need might be practical, such as setup instructions, sizing guidance, or care information. It may be time-sensitive, such as confirming authenticity or checking a service schedule.When a scan leads instead to a generic landing page, newsletter signup form, or promotional overlay that is disconnected from the product context, it interrupts the task rather than completing it. This is the tax brands pay for treating QR Codes as marketing real estate instead of service infrastructure.Brands that design for mature QR Code usage prioritize information before persuasion. They treat the QR Code as a shortcut to answers consumers are already seeking and not as a detour through unrelated promotions.Treat QR Codes as part of the product experienceQR Codes perform best when they are embedded into the product experience, rather than layered on top of it for marketing purposes. They should extend beyond campaign calendars or seasonal activations.When QR Codes are designed as part of the product system, they become places customers return to over time. They support ownership, usage, and service, rather than one-off interactions. Over time, this consistency builds trust and sets expectations about what a scan will reliably provide.This requires cross-functional ownership. Product, CX, operations, and marketing should all influence what lives behind the QR Code and how it evolves. Without that shared responsibility, QR Code experiences tend to fragment.So, for example, a furniture brand can print a single QR Code under each dining table that always leads to a “table hub” for that model: assembly steps, spare-part ordering, finish and cleaning guidance, warranty details, and even layout ideas or extension-leaf instructions.Over the years, the brand can update those resources, such as adding new care tips, compatibility notes, or sustainability information, without changing the code on the furniture, so the same scan continues to support ownership long after the purchase.Pro tip: Dynamic QR Codes are very helpful for this; you can change the destination without replacing the QR Code itself.Build durable use cases that support long-term needsTie QR Codes to needs that don't disappear after a launch or campaign. Think about moments consumers return to repeatedly:Checking authenticity on a high-value itemPulling up a manual months after purchaseConfirming warranty coverageInitiating a repairUnderstanding how a product was sourcedThat’s why the strongest use cases tend to sit deeper in the product lifecycle. For example, you can place one QR Code on a packaging that resolves to a product-specific hub, where customers can verify legitimacy, access onboarding content, view service timelines, or initiate a return, depending on their needs at that point in time.When one scan supports multiple long-term tasks instead of a single promotion, the QR Code starts earning its place as part of the product’s infrastructure.Maintain a dynamic information layerOnce QR Codes are tied to long-term use cases, the next step is to keep the information behind them useful over time. You can use scan data and support patterns to continuously refine the QR Code.This approach also addresses the data exchange consumers are willing to make. According to the report, 83% consumers are willing to share their data to receive rewards, personalized offers, and support, as long as they give consent (42%), can opt out later (41%), or receive transparency about data use (37%).If regulations change, materials are updated, or instructions are improved, the QR Code layer should reflect these changes without requiring a physical update. When brands maintain dynamic, personalized content behind QR Codes, they can deliver on this value exchange effectively.Design the post-scan journey with product-level rigorThe post-scan journey must start immediately. The QR Code must lead somewhere with value, and brands should be deliberate about what consumers see first, what they can do next, and how easily they can complete the task that led them to scan in the first place.This is especially critical given that 29% remain neutral when it comes to scanning. Seamless, fast-loading experiences with clear security signals, like secure branded domains and “Scan to verify” messaging, can convert neutral scanners into confident, repeat users.Understanding QR Code adoption for the long haulQR Codes are now embedded in consumer behavior. The brands that win in this mature phase won't be the ones deploying the most codes but will be the ones whose codes work every time.When QR Codes function as reliable product infrastructure rather than disposable marketing tools, they create compounding value. Each successful scan builds trust for the next one. Over time, these codes become reference points that consumers return to, rather than promotional interruptions they learn to avoid.The cost of an outdated QR Code strategy is measurable: Broken links train consumers to skip your codes entirely, slow pages erode confidence, and irrelevant destinations damage brand credibility. Meanwhile, competitors who treat QR Codes as durable systems will capture the attention, trust, and repeat engagement you're leaving on the table.The opportunity is clear. Consumers are ready to scan. The question is whether your QR Codes are ready to deliver.MethodologyUniqode surveyed 524 marketers and 1,000 consumers and analyzed 188 million scans across 796k QR Codes. The State of QR Codes 2026 includes what came back on how marketers use QR Codes, user adoption and behavior trends, and industry benchmarks.This story was produced by Uniqode and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Free dinner and cake walk at Rock Island Easter egg hunt this Saturday The Granny Grayson Outreach group is hosting its inaugural day of fun on Saturday, March 28, at Johannes Bus Service in Rock Island.
	Traffic slowed on Illinois-bound I-74 Bridge as emergency crews respond Traffic is slowed on the Illinois-bound I-74 Bridge as emergency crews respond on the downstream side. Multiple rescue vehicles are on scene.
	Traffic returns to normal on Illinois-bound I-74 Bridge after emergency response Emergency crews cleared the I-74 Bridge after responding to an incident that temporarily blocked a lane. Traffic in the Illinois-bound lanes is moving again.
	Moline to host Midwest defense contracting event in June The 17th annual symposium will be June 2-3 at Vibrant Arena. This year’s theme, “Readiness Without Limits," focuses on shifting global demands & defense priorities.
	Rock Island Parks & Recreation hosting 2 aquatic egg hunts Rock Island Parks and Recreation has two fun aquatic egg hunts planned at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center, 4303 24th Street (RIFAC). Families can enjoy the Underwater Egg Hunt, as well as a welcoming All Abilities Egg Hunt Swim Party for people with disabilities. The Underwater Egg Hunt will be on Saturday, March [...]
	How to find your signature fragrance How to find your signature fragranceFinding a fragrance that you can call a signature scent can be a challenge. It’s one that you hope people will instantly recognize, one that they’ll remember you by for all the right reasons. You may also be hovering in a space where you’re not sure how many sprays are too much, or where exactly to apply your favorite fragrance. AXE demystifies fragrances here. Find out what types of scents there are, what the fragrance wheel is, how you can find that signature scent, and then make it last. This is your chance to show off your unique vibe using scent.What are the different fragrance types?How can you smell irresistible if you don’t quite understand what types of fragrances are available to you? It’s not just about smelling a few fragrances and picking one you like. It’s also about choosing a product and scent profile that works with your personal style and your lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know.Deodorants and antiperspirantsThese act as the foundation of your scent game. They help keep you fresh throughout the day. But you need to understand the difference. “A deodorant’s function is to reduce body odor by absorbing or masking it,” explains Jaime Regan, R&D manager at Unilever. “An anti-perspirant, on the other hand, reduces sweat by creating a barrier to sweat production.” A deodorant is sometimes also called a body spray, and for that reason, you can apply it across your chest, neck and underarms. “But an antiperspirant is FDA regulated,” adds Regan. “It can only be applied to underarms.”Both deodorants and antiperspirants are often made with a fragrance so that you get a sensory boost as well as tackle odor and sweat.Eau de CologneAn eau de cologne usually contains about 2%-5% perfume oils. It’s a light fragrance that gives a subtle hint of scent. It’s ideal to wear every day, and can be layered on top of a deodorant or antiperspirant if the notes don’t clash or feel too overpowering.Eau de ToiletteA mid-strength fragrance, an eau de toilette boasts about 5%-15% perfume oil, giving you a noticeable scent. You can wear it daily, and it lasts a few hours without coming across as being too strong.Eau de ParfumWith a high concentration of fragrance oils (between 15% to 20%), an eau de parfum is a rich scent with staying power. A little goes a long way. What are fragrance notes?Fragrances are built up of notes that make a scent memorable. They are divided into base, middle and top notes. The top notes are the ones you smell first. Then the middle notes develop before you pick up the base notes. They work together to make a lasting impression. Understand the fragrance wheelYou may have heard of the color wheel. The fragrance wheel looks similar but acts as a cheat sheet to different fragrance notes. It’s broken up into major scent families: floral, woody, amber and fresh. Depending on what you’re drawn to, these scent families can help you zero in on one that feels right for you. For example, if you’re into that fresh, outdoorsy smell, you might lean toward woody or fresh scents. If warm, spicy notes are more your thing, amber fragrances might be right for you. They’re bold and exotic. Or, if you’re all about fresh-cut flower smells, floral scents could be your match. AXE Once you've narrowed down your fragrance preferences, test the different notes on your skin to see how they interact with your body chemistry. Sometimes, a scent that smells great on someone else might not smell the same on you.Know where to apply your fragranceThere’s a technique for applying your deodorant, antiperspirant or fragrance.How to apply your deodorant or antiperspirant When applying your deodorant or antiperspirant, stick to your underarms. Make sure the skin is clean and completely dry. Spritz from a few inches away. Or, if you’re using a stick, give the area one or two swipes. Apply fragrance to your pulse pointsYour pulse points are spots on your body where blood vessels are closest to the skin, such as your wrists, neck and behind your ears. Applying your fragrance there means the warmth from your skin helps the scent diffuse better.Top tip: Don’t rub your wrists together after you spray your fragrance. It messes with the fragrance’s structure and can change the way it smells.Spray your fragrance from a distanceHold your fragrance bottle at about a forearm’s distance to get an even mist. If you spritz from too close, the scent is all concentrated in one spot and can be overpowering.Don’t overdo itA little spray of deodorant or fragrance goes a long way. Always start light and see how it wears. Only spray more if needed.How to make your fragrance last longerThe best way to smell good all day long is to layer your scent using different products from the same fragrance families. This could include your body wash, lotion, deodorant and your fragrance. By layering these, the scent can linger for longer.How to layer your signature scent with your deodorantA few simple tricks can make sure that your deodorant or antiperspirant is working with your fragrance, not competing for the spotlight. Start with your deodorant or antiperspirantAlways apply your deodorant or antiperspirant first. It’s the base layer of your scent routine. These help reduce odor where it shows up first, your underarms.Match scents where possibleIf you can, choose a deodorant or antiperspirant with similar notes to your cologne or perfume. For example, if your fragrance has woody notes, a lightly scented woody deodorant helps stop them from clashing.Apply your fragrance to pulse points onlyAvoid layering your fragrance directly over your deodorant. Keep your fragrance focused on your pulse points. Spritz lightlyConsider using a lightly scented or unscented deodorant or antiperspirant if your fragrance is strong. An eau de parfum is long-lasting and can overpower any other scents. An eau de cologne or eau de toilette is lighter and could be boosted by a scented deodorant or antiperspirant if the notes complement each other.Refresh only as neededMany deodorants and antiperspirants show how long they last on the label. Look out for ones that have a 24-hour or more label. These should keep you fresh throughout the day. Avoid reapplying your fragrance too often. It’s best to stick to one or two sprays throughout the day, as most scents will develop and last several hours when applied on pulse points.When to say goodbye to old fragrancesOver time, your favorite scent can start smelling different or change color. This might happen if it was stored in a hot space or exposed to sunlight. If it’s altered in any way, it might be time to grab a new bottle.Pro tip: The best place to store your deodorants, antiperspirants or fragrances is in a cool, dark place like your wardrobe. Use them within two years for the best results.Your fragrance questions, answeredQ: Can I spray my fragrance on my clothes? Or only my skin?A: It’s best to spray your fragrance on your skin. The warmth from your body helps the scent develop and last longer. If you spray it on your clothes, you risk staining them.Q: How often should I reapply my fragrance?A: Most fragrances last about four to six hours. You might want a touch-up after that time. Many deodorants and antiperspirants are long-lasting. Check the labels for formulas that last 24 hours or longer for extra protection.Q: How do I know if a fragrance is working for me?A: Test a few fragrances on your skin. Walk around and see how it mixes with your natural scent. Don’t rush the process. The scent you keep coming back to is the one for you. Q: Should I change up my fragrance according to the season?A: In the warmer months, scents that make you think of summer breezes and beach days work well. Popular choices include fruity, light notes. When it’s colder, switch to warm and cozy notes like vanilla, amber, or spice.Following a few simple steps can help you find that signature scent that reflects how you want to show up in the world. Understanding fragrance notes, how to layer and the best ways to apply them, helps you level up your scent game.This story was produced by AXE and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Portugal Golden Visa takes longer than legally required, while Italy delivers on time Portugal Golden Visa takes longer than legally required, while Italy delivers on timeWhen Portugal’s Minister of Parliamentary Affairs António Leitão Amaro addressed the country’s golden visa backlog in October 2025, he made a candid admission: The government had deliberately processed wealthy investors last."Next year we will resolve the outstanding issues that, for reasons of social equity, we left until the end, which are those that pay the most, the ‘golden visas,’" Amaro said publicly.The statement confirmed what thousands of applicants had experienced firsthand: Portugal’s golden visa program, which legally requires processing within 90 days, was taking years to deliver approvals.A new analysis by MovingTo, an immigration advisory firm, examined processing times across four major European golden visa programs using data from 127 client applications between January 2023 and February 2026. The findings reveal that some countries dramatically exceed their stated timelines while others deliver on schedule.The Gap Between Promise and RealityPortugal’s golden visa backlog has reached crisis levels. Under Lei 23/2007 and Regulatory Decree 84/2007, the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) is legally required to process applications within 90 days. The actual average processing time, according to MovingTo’s data: 34 months—more than 12 times the legal requirement.The slowest Portugal application in the dataset has been pending for 52 months and counting.By contrast, Italy’s investor visa program consistently meets its commitments. The Ministry of Economic Development promises a 30-day decision on the initial Nulla Osta certificate. MovingTo’s data shows actual processing averaging 68 days from application to residence permit—roughly double the initial phase timeline but still within a predictable range.Processing Time Comparison• Portugal: 90 days required — 34 months actual (12x longer)• Greece: No official timeline — 11 months actual• Spain: 20 days required — 3.2 months actual (3-4x longer)• Italy: 30 days required — 68 days actual (minimal gap)Why Italy Works and Portugal Doesn’tThe divergence stems from structural differences in how each country handles investor applications.Italy created a dedicated investor visa unit within its Ministry of Economic Development with clear documentation requirements and a functional digital application system. The program processes lower volumes than Portugal’s, but the infrastructure was designed to handle investor cases specifically.Portugal’s golden visa applications flow through AIMA, the same agency processing asylum claims, work permits, and general immigration matters. When application volumes surged following favorable program terms, the system couldn’t scale.The backlog grew to over 55,000 pending applications by early 2025, including initial applications, renewals, and family member cases. The Portuguese government allocated €5.97 million to clear the backlog by June 2025—a target it failed to meet.Immigration Lawyers Push BackThe minister’s admission that golden visa holders were deliberately deprioritized drew sharp criticism from Portugal’s immigration bar.André Miranda of Fieldfisher Portugal called Amaro’s statements “very offensive and shameless.” Madalena Monteiro of Liberty Legal noted that “applicants find it hard to believe in any promises after years of delays and unmet commitments.”Some investors have begun challenging the delays at Portugal’s Constitutional Court, though outcomes remain uncertain and the legal process itself adds years to an already extended timeline.Greece Offers No AccountabilityGreece presents a different problem: The government publishes no official processing timeline at all.The Migration Ministry website lists application requirements but makes no commitment on timing. This means applicants have no legal standard to enforce when processing drags.MovingTo’s data shows Greece averaging 11 months from application to approval, with a range of 6 to 16 months. Industry sources that previously marketed Greece as a “3-6 month” program have quietly adjusted their estimates upward.The delays coincide with a surge in applications following Portugal’s 2023 decision to eliminate real estate as a qualifying investment. Many investors who would have chosen Portugal pivoted to Greece, overwhelming a system that—like Portugal—lacks dedicated processing infrastructure for investor cases.IMI Daily reported in late 2024 that at popular processing offices like Piraeus, appointment wait times alone could exceed 14 months before an application was even reviewed.Spain Falls in the MiddleSpain’s UGE (Large Business and Strategic Collectives Unit) is supposed to process investor visa applications within 20 days under Law 14/2013 (Ley de Apoyo a los Emprendedores), Article 76.Actual processing runs 2-4 months according to MovingTo’s data, with an average of 3.2 months. That’s 3-4 times longer than promised, but not catastrophic.Spain represents what might be called “normal bureaucratic delay”—the kind of timeline slippage common in government services. It’s frustrating but manageable for planning purposes.The more pressing issue for Spain is program availability. The country’s golden visa for real estate investment closes in 2025, leaving only fund and business investment routes.What This Means for Prospective ApplicantsThe data suggests several practical considerations for anyone evaluating European golden visa options:Timeline sensitivity matters. If residency is needed within a specific window—for tax planning, business relocation, or family reasons—Italy offers the only predictable timeline among major European programs. Portugal should be considered a three-plus-year commitment minimum.Portugal means fund investment. Since Portugal eliminated real estate as a qualifying route in 2023, investors must now commit €500,000 to qualifying venture capital or private equity funds (see funds.movingto.com for current options). The three-plus-year processing timeline affects liquidity planning for these fund commitments.Citizenship timelines compound. Portugal’s golden visa theoretically offers a path to citizenship after five years of residency. But if initial approval takes three years, the actual timeline from application to citizenship is closer to eight years.Published timelines are unreliable. Official government claims bear little relationship to actual processing in most countries. Only Italy’s program delivers results close to stated expectations.No timeline means no recourse. In countries like Greece that publish no official processing time, applicants cannot challenge delays or hold authorities accountable. The wait is simply what it is.MethodologyThis analysis draws from three source categories:Government sources: Portuguese Lei 23/2007 and Regulatory Decree 84/2007; Italian MISE Investor Visa Operating Manual; Spanish Law 14/2013 (Ley de Apoyo a los Emprendedores), Article 76; Greek Migration Ministry publications.Industry data: IMI Daily reporting (2024-2026); Schengen News visa processing reports; immigration law firm publications from Fieldfisher and Liberty Legal.Client data: 127 golden visa applications processed through MovingTo between January 2023 and February 2026. Processing times measured from initial submission to residence permit issuance. Data anonymized and aggregated by country.This story was produced by MovingTo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What happens to your brain when you put your phone down for 90 days? What happens to your brain when you put your phone down for 90 days?The first thing many people notice is the phantom buzz. A vibration in the pocket where the phone used to be, except the phone is sitting on the counter or on a desk across the room.Most people who carry a phone have felt it at least once. The sensation is so common among people who give up their smartphones that researchers have a name for it. Roughly nine out of ten college students report feeling vibrations that never occurred.It is the body expecting a signal that is not coming. And it is only the beginning.A growing body of research now shows that putting down a smartphone after heavy use produces measurable physical withdrawal: rising heart rate, climbing blood pressure, spiking anxiety, and disrupted sleep. The responses look less like a bad habit being broken and more like a dependency being interrupted.Treatment centers have started borrowing the same 90-day recovery framework built for drug and alcohol addiction, and addiction specialists are increasingly pushing for smartphones to be treated with the same clinical seriousness as substances.The medical establishment has not caught up yet. But the neuroscience is getting harder to ignore.Augustine Recovery, an addiction treatment center specializing in alcohol and drug rehabilitation, reviewed the published neuroscience and behavioral research to examine the brain science behind smartphone use and how it compares to the substance addictions that clinicians treat every day.The Itch that Shows Up on a Heart MonitorIn one experiment, researchers handed 40 iPhone users a series of word puzzles, then quietly removed their phones from the room. When the researchers called the phones so participants could hear them ringing but could not answer, heart rates rose. Blood pressure climbed. Anxiety scores jumped. Performance on the puzzles dropped.The participants were not in danger. They were not being threatened. They were sitting in a lab, hearing their phone ring in the next room, and not being allowed to pick it up.A separate experiment took devices away from 163 college students and measured anxiety three times over the course of an hour. Light users barely noticed. Heavy users showed anxiety that climbed with each measurement, getting worse the longer the phone was gone.That pattern has a name in addiction research: dose-response. The more you use, the harder the withdrawal hits. It is the same relationship that shows up in alcohol, nicotine and opioids.Anyone who has left their phone in the car and felt a low-grade unease for the next hour has experienced a mild version of what these studies measured. The difference is that in a lab, with monitors attached, you can see the body responding the way it would to any other threat: heart pumping faster, palms sweating, focus fragmenting. All because a phone rang and nobody could answer it.Why the Brain Treats a Notification Like a DrugThe physical symptoms have an explanation, and it runs deeper than habit.When researchers put 32 teenagers inside a brain scanner and showed them social media photos with lots of "likes," the same part of the brain lit up that activates during drug use: a small region called the nucleus accumbens, which is the brain's primary reward center. A follow-up found that giving likes and receiving them both triggered the same circuitry.This is the same mechanism that makes a slot machine compelling. The phone delivers rewards on an unpredictable schedule. Sometimes the notification is nothing. Sometimes it is a message that makes your day. The brain cannot tell in advance which one it will be, so it stays alert, releasing a small hit of dopamine every time something new appears. Over time, the brain adjusts by dialing down its own sensitivity. It takes more stimulation to feel the same effect.Addiction researchers call that tolerance. In everyday language, it is the reason an hour of scrolling that used to feel satisfying now feels like nothing.The structural picture points in the same direction. Heavy smartphone users tend to show less grey matter in the parts of the brain that govern self-control and emotional regulation, a pattern that overlaps with what researchers see in substance addiction. The science comes with an important caveat: Most of these studies are snapshots, not long-term tracking, so they cannot prove the phone caused the changes. But the overlap is consistent enough across multiple research groups that scientists have stopped treating it as a coincidence.Why 90 DaysThe 90-day recovery timeline did not come from a hunch. It came from decades of federal research tracking tens of thousands of patients trying to get clean from drugs.The pattern emerged in the 1970s and was confirmed again in the 1990s: Patients who stayed in treatment fewer than 90 days did about as well as those who never started. Only those who stayed 90 days or longer showed lasting improvement, and the results held up years later. That evidence became the backbone of federal treatment policy. The National Institute on Drug Abuse now states that treatment lasting less than 90 days is of limited effectiveness.The biology lines up. After drug use stops, the brain's dopamine system begins recovering within the first month. Mood improvements typically show up between one and three months. Full emotional stability takes three to six months. Researchers have also found that teenagers treated for compulsive phone habits showed their brain chemistry returning to normal after about nine weeks of therapy.The reasoning is straightforward: if the brain needs roughly 90 days to start recovering from cocaine, and heavy phone use disrupts many of the same circuits, the same timeline is a reasonable starting point.No study has proven that the 90-day model works specifically for phone addiction. But treatment programs are not waiting for the proof.What Recovery Actually Looks LikeThe first residential treatment center for digital addiction in the United States opened in 2009, on a five-acre property outside Seattle. It started with six beds and a model borrowed directly from substance abuse recovery: surrender the device on arrival, then work through therapy, life skills coaching, fitness and mindfulness training over weeks and months.The program now serves teens and young adults aged 13 to 30, with stays ranging from the initial residential phase to extended care spanning six to twelve months. Other programs have followed. A hospital-based program opened in Pennsylvania in 2013. South Korea declared internet addiction a national crisis and built government-funded treatment camps for teenagers.None of these programs have published independent, peer-reviewed outcome studies. What they have is a clinical framework that makes sense on paper, a growing number of patients who say it worked, and a waiting list that keeps getting longer.The gap between the demand for treatment and the evidence supporting it is one of the defining tensions in this field. Clinicians see people whose lives have been disrupted by compulsive phone use. Researchers say the science is not yet strong enough to call it a formal addiction. Meanwhile, the patients keep showing up.A Habit Almost Everyone RecognizesAsk Americans whether they spend too much time on their phones and most of them will say yes. In a national survey of more than 34,000 adults, 58% said they use their phone "too much." Among adults under 30, that figure was 81%. Half said they cannot imagine life without their smartphone. Eight in ten keep it within arm's reach during every waking hour.Those numbers describe a population that is aware of the problem and unable to stop. It sounds less like the way people talk about a casual preference and more like the way people talk about a habit they wish they could break.The harder question is where to draw the line. Broad screening tools suggest roughly a quarter of people worldwide qualify as "problematic" smartphone users. But when the bar is raised to documented functional impairment, the kind that costs someone a job or a relationship, the number drops dramatically. Even by the most conservative clinical estimate, the affected population in the United States is larger than the number of Americans currently receiving treatment for opioid addiction. The debate is not about whether the problem exists. It is about how far it has already spread.The Diagnosis That Does Not Exist YetThe medical world is in an awkward spot. Doctors are treating it. Researchers are scanning brains and measuring withdrawal symptoms. Treatment centers are filling beds.And the systems that formally decide what counts as a psychiatric disorder have not made room for it.The handbook that American psychiatrists use to diagnose mental illness does not include smartphone addiction. The only behavioral addiction it recognizes is gambling. It lists internet gaming disorder as a "condition for further study," which is the psychiatric equivalent of a maybe. The most recent update, in 2022, did not change that.The WHO added gaming disorder to its own classification system in 2019, but drew the line there. No broader smartphone or internet addiction category exists.Professional organizations are moving faster than the manuals. The American Society of Addiction Medicine expanded its definition of addiction over a decade ago to include behaviors, not just substances, calling it a disease "not limited to psychoactive substances." Its next treatment manual will include a full volume on behavioral addictions. The president of the American Psychiatric Association described technological addictions in 2024 as "the new frontier in addiction medicine."The clinical world is treating it as real. The diagnostic books have not caught up. For the millions of Americans who feel the pull every time they try to put the phone down, the distinction may not matter much.MethodologyThis article draws on peer-reviewed neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and addiction medicine research alongside national survey data to examine the evidence for smartphone withdrawal and the clinical response to compulsive phone use.Withdrawal symptom evidence relies primarily on two experimental studies. Clayton, Leshner, and Almond (2015), "The Extended iSelf: The Impact of iPhone Separation on Cognition, Emotion, and Physiology," published in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication (DOI: 10.1111/jcc4.12109, N=40), measured heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety and cognitive performance during involuntary iPhone separation. Cheever, Rosen, Carrier, and Chavez (2014), "Out of sight is not out of mind: The impact of restricting wireless mobile device use on anxiety levels among low, moderate and high users," published in Computers in Human Behavior (DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2014.05.002, N=163), established the dose-response relationship between usage levels and separation anxiety.Additional withdrawal evidence is from Eide et al. (2018), published in Frontiers in Psychology (DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01444, N=127, 72-hour restriction protocol), and Cheever et al. (2021), published in the International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, which measured galvanic skin response during smartphone separation.Phantom vibration prevalence is documented in Drouin, Kaiser, and Miller (2012), published in Computers in Human Behavior (DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2012.03.013, 89% prevalence among 290 undergraduates); Rothberg et al. (2010), published in BMJ (DOI: 10.1136/bmj.c6914, 68% prevalence among medical staff); and Lin et al. (2013), published in PLOS ONE (PMC3677878).Brain imaging evidence draws on Sherman et al. (2016), "The Power of the Like in Adolescence," published in Psychological Science (DOI: 10.1177/0956797616645673, N=32, fMRI); Sherman et al. (2018), published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience (DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsy051); Kim et al. (2011), published in NeuroReport (DOI: 10.1097/WNR.0b013e328346e16e, N=12, PET imaging, reduced D2 receptor availability); Horvath et al. (2020), published in Addictive Behaviors (DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106334, N=48, structural MRI); and Solly et al. (2022), published in Molecular Psychiatry (DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01315-7, meta-analysis of 15 VBM studies, 718 participants). The cross-sectional design of brain imaging studies means causation cannot be inferred from observed structural differences.Neurotransmitter normalization after therapy is from Seo et al. (2020), published in the American Journal of Neuroradiology (PMID: 32616578, N=38, GABA-to-glutamate ratio normalization after 9 weeks of CBT in smartphone-addicted youth).The 90-day treatment threshold traces through the Drug Abuse Reporting Program (DARP, approximately 44,000 admissions, 1969-1973), the Treatment Outcome Prospective Study (TOPS), and the Drug Abuse Treatment Outcome Studies (DATOS, 10,010 admissions, 1991-1993). The federal guideline is from NIDA's Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide, Third Edition (2018). Dopamine receptor recovery timelines are from Lu, Grimm, Shaham, and Hope (2003), published in the Journal of Neurochemistry. The 90-day model has been validated for substance use disorders but not independently for digital or behavioral addiction.National prevalence data is from Gallup (2022, probability-based panel, N=34,591). Additional context is from Pew Research Center (2025/2026 NPORS survey, N=5,022; 2024 teen survey, N=1,453). The global pooled prevalence of self-reported problematic smartphone use (approximately 27%) is from Meng et al. (2022), published in Clinical Psychology Review (498 articles, N=2,123,762). The functional impairment prevalence estimate (0.75-1.2%) is from Lu, An, and Chen (2024, PMID 39700606, N=1,989). The comparison to opioid treatment population is based on SAMHSA National Survey on Drug Use and Health data.Treatment program information for reSTART Life (Fall City, Washington, opened 2009) and Bradford Regional Medical Center (opened 2013) is from published reporting. No independent peer-reviewed outcome evaluations were identified for either program. South Korea's government response is from published government statistics.DSM-5 classification is from the APA's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (2013) and Text Revision (2022). ICD-11 Gaming Disorder (6C51) was approved by the WHO May 25, 2019, effective January 1, 2022. ASAM's expanded addiction definition is from its August 2011 public policy statement. The APA presidential address on technological addictions was delivered at the 2024 Annual Meeting by President Petros Levounis.This story was produced by Augustine Recovery and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How entertainment production hubs are creating new housing hotspots How entertainment production hubs are creating new housing hotspotsStreaming platforms, film, and TV studios are producing more content than ever and investing in permanent facilities instead of temporary sets, often outside of Hollywood.This trend is shaping housing markets and local infrastructure across the country, notably in states like Georgia and Texas, where generous incentives attract production crews and creative workers. In this article, NewHomeSource explores the trend and what it can mean for new home buyers.Productions bring a huge financial boost to these areas, adding anywhere from $670,000 a day for smaller projects to $1.3 million on average for big-budget productions, according to the Motion Picture Association.For new home buyers, the expansion of film and streaming production offers a unique opportunity to purchase homes in vibrant, growing communities where economic growth, creative energy, and thoughtful design converge. This means:More choices in move-in-ready neighborhoods built for modern living.Convenient locations near creative job centers and amenities.Communities designed for both work and play, reflecting the culture of their areas.Star-worthy style influencing new home design.Markets Seeing the Rise of Entertainment Production HubsWhile film and streaming production sets are appearing across the country, here are some of the most notable.Atlanta and Southeast Georgia: Atlanta remains a top U.S. production hub, while various locations across the state are robust entertainment centers. Netflix’s hit “Stranger Things” was shot primarily in Georgia, adding over $650 million to the state’s GDP and involving more than 2,000 local vendors.Texas (Dallas, Austin, San Antonio): State incentives are attracting film and TV shoots. Several shows from the popular Taylor Sheridan universe are shot in Texas, including “Landman,” “Madison,” “Lioness,” and season two of “1883.”New Jersey (Fort Monmouth): Netflix is building a major East Coast studio at a former military base. Oscar nominee “Marty Supreme,” Sydney Sweeney’s “The Housemaid,” and Apple TV’s “Severance,” were all primarily filmed in New Jersey.New Mexico: Competitive incentives continue to attract film and television location shoots. Oscar-winning “Oppenheimer” was filmed in New Mexico, as were “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul.”What This Growth Means for Today’s New Home BuyersProduction-driven growth brings jobs, community investment, and vibrant development. prompting builders to create communities for both production workers and relocating residents.Production work often requires extended stays. Cast and crew may live in planned communities or short-term housing near studios. Streamlined developments allow builders to respond quickly to rising demand, often offering modern layouts, flexible floor plans, and move-in-ready homes with great community amenities.House hunters benefit from the increase in supply of modern homes, purposeful design, and neighborhoods in coveted areas with lifestyle-boosting amenities, fit for film stars and their fans, creating sustainable markets for new construction.From Film Sets to Livable Interior DesignAcross entertainment-adjacent communities, home design naturally takes a cue from cinematic sensibility. These film-influenced design trends can elevate everyday living to star status.Multi‑Purpose Spaces: Many buyers now look for home offices that double as creative studios, ideal for work, art, or even podcast and screenwriting sessions after shoot days.Family Rooms That Feel Like Screening Spaces: Open, comfortable spaces support movie nights, casual gatherings, and community events.Outdoor Living That Encourages Connection: Walkable paths, shared green spaces, and patios tailored for socializing mirror open-air lifestyles.Narrative Interiors: Interiors often lean into warm neutrals, layered textures, and tactile finishes — spaces that feel collected and personal rather than sterile.Red Carpet Entry: Make a dramatic first impression with a statement-making foyer, bold lighting, or luxe flooring that feels like a premiere every time you walk in.Awards Night Dining: Add flair to your dining area with chandelier lighting, metallic accents, or seating arrangements that make every meal feel like a celebration.Cinematic Lighting: Use layered lighting, spotlights, and accent lamps to highlight key areas of the home, as if every corner deserves a close-up.These design touches make homes feel like stories waiting to unfold, perfect for buyers attracted to dynamic, creative communities.Bottom LineCall it smart casting — these hubs pair lifestyle appeal with the kind of economic momentum that can deliver long-term returns. In entertainment production hubs, you’re not just buying a home — you’re buying into an economic engine. Film, television, and streaming bring sustained job growth, infrastructure investment, and a steady influx of creative talent. That kind of ecosystem supports housing demand over time, helping underpin property values long after the opening weekend buzz fades.This story was produced by NewHomeSource and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Emergency crews respond to I-74 bridge Emergency crews are responding to an incident on the I-74 bridge.
	GLP-1 medications and mental health benefits: What new research shows GLP-1 medications and mental health benefits: What new research showsGLP-1 medications are best known for helping people manage diabetes and lose weight. Over the past several years, researchers have begun to notice something else. Many patients report changes not only in appetite and weight, but also in mood, cravings and emotional regulation.As more data has become available, scientists have taken a closer look at how GLP-1 receptor agonists affect the brain. LifeStance Health reports that a growing body of evidence suggests that GLP-1 medications, while prescribed primarily for weight loss, may also support mental health when used as prescribed by a qualified clinician.Why mental health is now part of the GLP-1 conversationWhen GLP-1 medications first entered widespread use, their effects were viewed mainly through a metabolic lens. After several years of real-world use, consistent patterns have emerged. Some individuals report fewer intrusive food thoughts, reduced cravings for alcohol or other substances and improved emotional regulation. These observations led researchers to explore whether GLP-1 medications might influence mental health directly, not only through weight loss. Especially since GLP-1 receptors are active in areas of the brain involved in mood, motivation and behavior.What is GLP-1 and how do these medications work?GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a naturally occurring hormone involved in appetite regulation, digestion and insulin release. GLP-1 medications mimic this hormone by slowing gastric emptying, increasing satiety, reducing hunger and food cravings and influencing reward pathways related to eating behavior. Because these pathways overlap with those involved in emotional and psychological functioning, GLP-1s may have effects that extend beyond weight management.Types of GLP-1 medications by generic and brand nameSemaglutide: Brand names include Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus.Ozempic is FDA-approved for diabetes, Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss and Rybelsus is an oral tablet FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes.Tirzepatide: Brand names include Mounjaro and Zepbound.Mounjaro is FDA-approved for diabetes, while Zepbound is FDA-approved for weight loss.Liraglutide: Brand names include Victoza and Saxenda.Victoza is FDA-approved for diabetes, and Saxenda is FDA-approved for weight loss.Dulaglutide: Brand name Trulicity.Trulicity is FDA-approved for diabetes and is sometimes discussed in the context of weight management.Exenatide: Brand names include Byetta and Bydureon.Byetta and Bydureon are FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes.Lixisenatide: Brand name Adlyxin.Adlyxin is FDA-approved for diabetes.Some GLP-1 medications are taken as weekly injections, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity, Bydureon and Zepbound. Others are taken daily by injection, such as Victoza, Saxenda and Byetta, or as a daily oral tablet, such as Rybelsus.Although these medications share a common mechanism, individual experiences can vary based on the specific drug, dosage and a person’s physical and mental health history. Always follow your prescribing clinician’s directions on medication dosage and timing.What the research shows about GLP-1 medications and mental healthAccording to a 2024 systematic review published in the National Library of Medicine, GLP-1 receptor agonists have been associated with several potential mental health benefits across animal and human studies. Key findings from this research include:Improvement in depressive symptomsThis 2024 review found evidence that GLP-1 medications may help reduce symptoms of depression. These effects are thought to be related to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant processes in the brain, as well as changes in neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.Better cognitive functionSome studies included in this 2024 review showed improvements in cognitive areas such as attention, learning and mental clarity. Researchers from those studies suggest this may be linked to improved brain signaling and reduced oxidative stress.Reductions in alcohol and substance useGLP-1 medications were associated with decreased alcohol consumption and reduced substance use in several studies from this 2024 review. These effects are believed to stem from changes in reward and impulse-control pathways in the brain.Decreases in binge eating behaviorsThis 2024 review also found that GLP-1 medications may help reduce binge eating by lowering appetite and food cravings. For some individuals, this may support better control over eating behaviors when combined with appropriate mental health care.While research findings are promising, human experiences with GLP-1 medications are not identical. Some people notice emotional benefits, while others experience little change. Researchers point to several reasons for this variation, including differences between specific GLP-1 medications, individual mental health history, the presence of eating disorders or mood disorders and differences in dosage, duration of use and overall health. These differences highlight the importance of personalized care rather than a single approach for everyone.GLP-1 medications and eating disordersOne area where GLP-1 medications appear particularly helpful is in reducing binge eating and compulsive eating behaviors.By decreasing appetite and cravings, these medications may help some individuals break cycles of emotional or impulsive eating. For certain patients, quieter hunger signals allow more effective participation in therapy and the development of healthier coping strategies.However, appetite suppression alone does not treat eating disorders. Individuals with a history of restrictive eating, body dysmorphia or disordered eating should use GLP-1 medications if prescribed by a qualified clinician and alongside mental health treatment. Therapy remains essential to help address underlying emotional patterns and prevent shifts toward other compulsive behaviors.GLP-1 medications and suicide risk: FDA updateIn January 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it is requesting the removal of suicidal behavior and suicidal ideation warnings from certain GLP-1 receptor agonist medications. This decision followed a comprehensive FDA review that found no increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors associated with GLP-1 use.The FDA analyzed data from large clinical trials and real-world studies involving more than 100,000 patients and did not identify higher rates of suicide-related outcomes or serious psychiatric side effects compared to placebo or other diabetes treatments. Based on these findings, the FDA concluded that GLP-1 medications are not associated with an increased suicide risk and moved to update labeling for consistency across the drug class.Even though current evidence suggests GLP-1 medications do not show an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors when used as prescribed, individuals should report any mood changes to their health care provider.What this means for patientsAfter several years of real-world use and growing scientific study, evidence suggests that GLP-1 medications may support mental health in addition to weight loss. Benefits related to mood, cognitive function, binge eating and addictive behaviors appear to be biologically plausible and supported by emerging data. At the same time, careful screening and monitoring remain important, especially for individuals with eating or mood disorders.While the clinical potential is promising, the reality of access is complex. Issues of equity, cost and supply mean these medications are not yet available to everyone. Addressing these barriers is a key part of the conversation between patients and providers.GLP-1 medications should only be taken as prescribed by a qualified clinician. Individual experiences vary, and these medications may not be appropriate for everyone.This story was published by LifeStance Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Answers to over 60 content marketing FAQs: Strategy, SEO, ROI, AI and more Answers to over 60 content marketing FAQs: Strategy, SEO, ROI, AI and moreMost businesses treat content marketing like a checkbox. Publish a blog post. Share it once. Move on. Then wonder why nothing ranks, no one converts, and the whole thing feels like a waste of time.Content marketing, per se, works. But only when you understand the strategy behind it, not just churning out content.This guide from digital marketing agency WebFX answers 60-plus content marketing FAQs, covering topics from content creation and distribution to the timeline for seeing results. It provides a comprehensive overview of common questions in one place.Content marketing basics FAQsBefore diving into strategy, formats, and distribution, it helps to understand what content marketing actually is and why it matters. These common questions about content marketing cover the fundamentals.1. What is content marketing?Content marketing is a strategy where you create and distribute helpful content (like blog posts, videos, guides, and infographics) to attract, engage, and educate your target audience.At its best, content marketing:Builds trust and authority with your ideal customers.Answers real questions and solves real problems.Drives profitable actions like leads, sales, and repeat business.Unlike traditional advertising, content marketing earns attention instead of buying it.2. How does content marketing work?Content marketing works by putting helpful, searchable information in front of people who are already looking for answers.In practice, that means you:Research your audience and what they’re searching for.Create content that answers their questions or solves their problems.Distribute it through channels like search, social media, and email.Over time, that content builds trust and moves people through the buyer’s journey, from awareness to consideration to purchase.3. Why is content marketing important?Content marketing helps you reach your audience where they already are: searching for answers online. It generates three times more leads than outbound marketing, and 72% of businesses say content marketing increases their leads.Beyond lead generation, it builds brand awareness, establishes your credibility, and creates long-term visibility. Unlike paid ads that stop working when you stop paying, strong content continues to drive traffic and results over the years.4. What results can content marketing actually drive?Content marketing can drive brand awareness, website traffic, leads, and revenue. 77% of businesses are satisfied with the ROI they receive from content marketing. Businesses that use content marketing earn six times more conversions than businesses that don’t.Companies with blogs produce 67% more leads per month compared to those without. High-quality content also helps meet people at different stages of the sales funnel, from early research to purchase-ready.5. What types of content count as content marketing?Content marketing includes any valuable material you create to attract and engage your audience:Blog posts and articlesVideos (explainers, tutorials, testimonials)InfographicsEbooks, whitepapers, and guidesCase studiesWebinarsPodcastsSocial media contentThe content format depends on your audience’s preferences and where they spend time online.6. Is content marketing the same as SEO?No, but SEO and content marketing work closely together. Search engine optimization (SEO) focuses on improving your website’s visibility in search results. Content marketing focuses on creating valuable material that attracts and engages your audience.Content is the fuel that powers SEO. When you create optimized content, it ranks in search engines and drives organic traffic. The better your SEO, the better your content performs, and vice versa. SEO attracts qualified traffic to your site, while content marketing keeps those visitors interested and moves them closer to becoming customers.Content marketing strategy and planning FAQsPublishing content without a plan is like driving without a destination. These frequent questions on content marketing dive into strategy fundamentals, from setting goals to building a content calendar that keeps your team on track.7. What should a content marketing strategy include?A content marketing strategy should include clear goals, a defined target audience, content topics and formats, a publishing schedule, distribution channels, and a plan for measuring results. It should also outline your brand voice and how content ties into your broader marketing efforts, like SEO, email, and social media. Without a documented strategy, you’re just creating content and hoping something sticks.8. How do I set content marketing goals that tie to revenue?Start by working backward from business outcomes and use SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely) to define what success looks like.To set revenue-tied content goals:Identify your target outcome (leads, conversions, or revenue).Work backward from the numbers you need to hit.Set specific benchmarks you can track and measure.For example, say you want to generate $20,000 in new revenue from content over the next six months. If your average customer is worth $2,000, you’ll need about 10 new customers from content. With a close rate of around 25% on content-driven leads, you’re aiming for roughly 40 qualified leads from content to hit that target.In SMART terms, your goal becomes: “Generate 40 qualified leads from content in the next six months to drive approximately $20,000 in new revenue.”Your content marketing goals should always answer the question: How does this impact the bottom line?9. How do I identify my target audience for content marketing?Look at your current customers first. What demographics do they share? What problems do they need solved? Use platform analytics, customer surveys, and CRM data to build a clear picture. Consider attributes like demographics, socioeconomic status, buying habits, and interests. The more specific you get with your target audience, the easier it becomes to create content that resonates and drives action.10. What is a content calendar, and do I need one?A content calendar is a planning document that maps out what content you’ll create, when you’ll publish it, and where it will be distributed. It helps you stay organized, maintain consistency, and avoid last-minute scrambling.Content calendars also help teams avoid miscommunication and overlap. If you’re managing multiple content types or working with a team, a content calendar is essential. Even solo marketers benefit from planning at least a month ahead.11. How do I brainstorm content ideas?Look at the real questions your customers ask and the problems they encounter every day. Use keyword research tools to find topics people are actively searching for. Look at what competitors are covering and identify gaps you can fill. Review comments and questions from your sales team, customer service, and social media. Industry news and content marketing trends can also spark ideas. Capture ideas in one place as they come up, so you always have fresh topics ready to go.12. How often should I update my content marketing strategy?Review your strategy quarterly at a minimum. Content marketing isn’t static, and what worked six months ago may not work today. Use performance data to identify what’s hitting and what’s falling flat. Major algorithm updates, new platform features, or shifts in your business goals should also trigger a strategy refresh. The key is to stay flexible and adjust based on what the data shows.Content creation and formats FAQsContent is what makes content marketing work. These content marketing FAQs look at what to create, which formats perform best, and how to keep your content engaging and valuable:13. What type of content is most effective?The most effective content depends on your audience and goals, but video drives strong results across the board. 89% of businesses use video as a marketing tool, and 87% of consumers have been convinced to buy a product or service after watching a video. Blog posts remain foundational for SEO and thought leadership.Case studies and customer stories are particularly effective for B2B, with 53% of B2B marketers saying they’re the most effective content format. You’ll typically find the most effective content for your company by matching content type to what your audience prefers and where they spend time.14. How long should blog posts be?The ideal blog post length depends on your goals. The average blog post is 1,333 words long. Posts with 1,000 to 1,500 words work well for social sharing and general engagement. For ranking on Google, longer content tends to perform better, with top-ranking articles averaging around 2,450 words. More important than hitting a specific word count is covering the topic thoroughly and providing genuine value to readers.15. Should I prioritize video content?Yes, if you have the capacity to produce it steadily. 95% of marketers consider video marketing an important part of their overall strategy, and 96% say video has helped boost brand awareness. Video keeps users engaged and increases time on site.If video feels overwhelming, start small with short clips, behind-the-scenes footage, or repurposed content from longer videos. You don’t need expensive equipment. A smartphone and basic editing software can get you started.16. What makes content engaging?Engaging content is useful, relevant, and easy to consume. It answers questions, solves problems, or entertains. Use clear headlines and break up text with visuals, subheadings, and short paragraphs. Add calls to action (CTAs), so readers know what to do next. Most importantly, write for humans first. Content that feels like a conversation rather than a lecture will keep people reading.17. How do I create content that generates leads?Create content that targets what your ideal customers are searching for when they’re close to taking action.To build lead-generating content:Choose topics tied to high-intent searches (comparisons, pricing, “best” lists, how-to guides).Offer something valuable like a template, checklist, or demo in exchange for contact info.Place clear, relevant CTAs throughout your content so readers know exactly what to do next.72% of businesses say content marketing increases their leads, but only when the content itself is designed with conversion in mind.18. Can I repurpose content across different formats?Yes, and you should. Repurposing content extends the life and reach of your content without starting from scratch. A blog post can become a video, infographic, email series, or social media carousel. A webinar can turn into short clips, quote graphics, or a downloadable guide.Keep the core message, but adapt the format to fit how people consume content on each platform. Most audiences won’t see every version, especially across different channels.Content marketing and SEO FAQsContent and SEO go hand in hand. Here are some of the most common content marketing questions regarding optimizing content for search engines, earning rankings, and driving organic traffic.19. How does content marketing improve SEO?Content marketing fuels SEO by giving search engines something to rank. When you create high-quality content optimized with relevant keywords, search engines understand what your pages are about and can match them to user searches.Strong content also earns backlinks from other websites, which signals authority to Google. 72% of marketers say content creation is the most important SEO tactic. The more valuable content you publish, the more opportunities you have to rank for relevant searches.20. What role do keywords play in content marketing?Keywords help search engines understand what your content is about and match it to what people are searching for. Use keywords naturally throughout your content, including in titles, headings, and body text. Avoid keyword stuffing, which can hurt your rankings.Research keywords to find topics your audience is actively searching for, then create content that thoroughly addresses those queries. Keyword research tools can help you identify high-value keywords for your content.21. How do I optimize content for search engines?Start with keyword research to identify what your audience is searching for. Then follow these content optimization best practices:Include your primary keyword in your title tag, meta description, headings, and naturally throughout the content.Write descriptive, compelling title tags that encourage clicks.Use header tags (H2, H3) to structure your content and make it scannable.Optimize images for visual search with descriptive alt text.Internally link to other relevant pages on your site.Ensure your page loads quickly and works well on mobile.Most importantly, focus on creating genuinely helpful content that answers the searcher’s question better than competing pages. Google rewards content that satisfies search intent, not content stuffed with keywords.22. How do backlinks relate to content marketing?Backlinks are links from other websites pointing to your content. They signal to search engines that your content is valuable and trustworthy. When you create high-quality content like original research, infographics, or comprehensive guides, other sites are more likely to link to it as a resource.These links boost your domain authority and help your pages rank higher. Content marketing is one of the most effective ways to earn backlinks naturally.23. What is E-E-A-T, and why does it matter for content?E-E-A-T stands for Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. It’s a framework Google uses to evaluate content quality. Content that demonstrates real experience, deep expertise, established authority, and trustworthiness ranks better, especially for topics that affect people’s health, finances, or safety.To improve E-E-A-T, create content from subject matter experts, cite credible sources, keep information accurate and up to date, and build your reputation through consistent, high-quality publishing.24. How long does it take for content to rank in search results?Most content takes about three to six months to start ranking and gaining meaningful traction in search results.How fast you see movement depends on factors like:Your site’s authority and backlink profile.How competitive the keyword or topic is.The quality, depth, and freshness of your content.New websites or pages without established authority may take longer, while low-competition topics can rank faster. Track your rankings regularly and update content as needed to keep improving performance.Content distribution and promotion FAQsCreating great content is just the very beginning. Let’s break down how to get your content in front of the right audience through distribution and promotion.25. How do I distribute my content?Distribute content through the channels where your audience already spends time. Start with your website as the hub, then share through email newsletters, social media, and paid promotion. 73% of marketers use organic social media to promote their content, and 53% use email marketing.You can also repurpose content for different platforms, like turning a blog post into a LinkedIn article or a short video. The goal is to meet your audience where they are, not wait for them to find you.26. How do content marketing and social media work together?Social media and content marketing complement each other naturally. You create content on your website, then share it on social platforms to expand your reach. Social media helps your content reach people who may not visit your site routinely. It also lets you gather feedback, encourage discussion, and get input on future content ideas. As you reliably share valuable content, you build a following that drives traffic back to your site and increases engagement.27. Should I use paid promotion for my content?Paid promotion can accelerate your content’s reach, especially for high-value pieces. 63% of marketers use paid channels to boost content distribution. Effective paid channels include social media advertising (66%), paid search ads (45%), and YouTube ads (40%).Paid promotion works well for gated content like ebooks or webinars where you’re capturing leads. Start with a small budget to test what works before scaling. Organic reach takes time, so paid promotion can help bridge the gap while you build momentum.28. What are effective ways to promote a new blog post?Promote new blog posts through multiple channels to maximize reach:Share on your social media profiles (multiple times over several weeks).Send to your email list, either as a dedicated email or within a newsletter.Link to it from related pages on your website.Reach out to influencers or industry sites who might find it valuable.Repurpose key points into social media posts, graphics, or short videos.29. How do I build an email list for content distribution?Offer something valuable in exchange for an email address. This could be an ebook, guide, template, checklist, or access to exclusive content. To grow your email list effectively:Place signup forms on high-traffic pages and within relevant blog posts.Use clear calls to action that explain the benefit of subscribing.Offer webinars or free courses that require registration.Gate high-value content behind a simple email form.Once you build your list, send regular email newsletters featuring your latest content to keep subscribers engaged and driving traffic back to your site.30. How often should I promote my content?Promote each piece of content at least three times across your channels, since your entire audience won’t see it the first time.For an effective content promotion cadence:Share new content multiple times over the first few weeks.Space those shares out appropriately, and vary your messaging and format each time.Repromote evergreen content periodically since the value doesn’t expire.Track which posts drive the most engagement and double down on your top performers.Be steady without being repetitive. A single share rarely moves the needle, but a coordinated push across platforms does.Content marketing leads, conversions, and ROI FAQsContent marketing can absolutely drive revenue, but only if you’re measuring the right things. In this part of the guide, we’ll walk through how to generate leads, track conversions, and prove ROI to the people who control your budget.31. How do I generate leads from content marketing?Generate leads by building a content marketing system that attracts the right audience, nurtures interest, and captures contact information at the right moments.Key strategies include:Using SEO, social, and email to steadily drive your ideal buyers to your content.Mapping content to each stage of the funnel (awareness, consideration, and decision).Pairing high-intent content with lead capture offers and following up with nurture campaigns.The difference between content that generates leads and content that just sits there is a system that moves people from first click to conversion.32. What is content marketing ROI?Content marketing ROI is the revenue you earn compared to what you spend on content marketing.It shows you:How profitable your content efforts really are.Whether your current strategy is worth scaling, fixing, or cutting.How to justify (or grow) your content marketing budget with data.77% of businesses are satisfied with the ROI they receive from content marketing, and 67% of marketers say they can calculate revenue from leads and conversions driven by their content.33. How do I calculate content marketing ROI?Use this formula: Content Marketing ROI = (Return – Investment) / Investment × 100Your investment includes content creation costs, tools, labor, and any agency fees. Return is the revenue generated from content-driven conversions. For example, if you spend $1,000 on content and generate $5,000 in sales, your ROI is 400%.To accurately measure your content marketing ROI, you need tracking in place. Use Google Analytics to track conversions, set up goals for form fills and purchases, and use UTM parameters to identify traffic sources.34. What metrics should I track for content marketing?Focus on content marketing metrics that tie to business outcomes. The most important ones include:Conversions: Form fills, downloads, purchases driven by content.Organic traffic: Visitors coming from search engines.Engagement: Time on page, bounce rate, pages per session.Email engagement: Open rates, click-through rates from content emails.Social engagement: Shares, comments, clicks on content posts.Lead quality: How many content-driven leads convert to customers.Google Analytics is a widely used ROI tracking tool, with 64% of marketers using it. Avoid getting distracted by vanity metrics like page views unless they connect to a larger goal.35. How long does it take to see ROI from content marketing?Most businesses start to see meaningful content marketing ROI in about three to six months, with a significant impact showing up as your content library grows.In those first few months, your content needs time to:Get crawled, indexed, and ranked in search results.Build authority and backlinks in your space.Start driving steady traffic, leads, and assisted conversions.Early on, focus on leading indicators like organic traffic growth and engagement. With consistency, those translate into leads and revenue. Be patient, track progress monthly, and adjust based on what the data shows. Results compound as your content library grows.36. How do I prove content marketing value to stakeholders?Use data to connect content efforts to business outcomes. Track which content pieces generate traffic, leads, and revenue using tools like Google Analytics. Show how content supports the sales funnel by measuring conversions at each stage. Compare the cost of content marketing to other lead generation methods.Present ROI as a percentage and highlight specific wins, like a blog post that generated a certain number of qualified leads or a guide that contributed to closed deals.Content marketing timelines and expectations FAQsContent marketing is a long game. These content marketing FAQs cover realistic timelines, when to expect results, and how to set expectations with stakeholders.37. Why does content marketing take so long?Content marketing relies on organic discovery, which takes time. Search engines need to crawl and index your content before they can rank. New websites or domains without established authority take longer to build trust with Google.Competitive keywords require sustained effort and quality content to outrank established players. Your audience also needs time to discover your content, engage with it, and move through the buyer’s journey. Content marketing is an investment that compounds, not a quick fix.38. How often should I publish new content?Consistency matters more than volume. However, publishing frequency should match your resources and quality standards.Posting three to four high-quality pieces per month is better than publishing daily content that’s thin or rushed. Create a realistic publishing schedule your team can sustain, then stick to it.39. How do I set realistic expectations with leadership?Set expectations early and anchor them to how content marketing actually performs during a set period.Position content as a long-term strategy: Content marketing compounds. It’s not designed for instant wins like paid ads, but for sustainable traffic, leads, and authority.Share realistic timelines: Most businesses begin seeing measurable traction in three to six months, with ROI increasing as content assets accumulate and rankings improve.Track leading indicators first: Use early metrics like organic traffic growth, keyword visibility, engagement, and assisted conversions before expecting direct revenue impact.Ground expectations in benchmarks: About 77% of businesses report satisfaction with their content marketing ROI, but that satisfaction comes from discipline and patience.Create a phased plan: Set quarterly milestones and checkpoints so stakeholders can see progress, optimization opportunities, and momentum well before the full payoff.This approach reframes success as progress, not instant revenue, and helps leadership stay aligned while results build.40. What happens if I stop creating content?If you stop publishing, your results will plateau and gradually decline. Competitors who continue creating content will outrank you. Your existing content will age and may become outdated or less relevant. Traffic and leads that depend on fresh content will drop.Content marketing requires ongoing investment to maintain momentum. Notably, that evergreen content drives traffic long after it’s published, but even evergreen pieces need periodic content refreshes to stay competitive.41. Is content marketing worth it?Yes, content marketing is worth it because it attracts qualified traffic, generates leads, and drives revenue in the long run. Here’s why it’s worth the investment.It reaches people already searching for answers (high-intent visibility).It helps you rank better on Google with helpful, search-optimized content (and stronger E-E-A-T).It supports the full buyer journey, from awareness to conversion.It keeps delivering after publishing, unlike ads that stop when spend stops.Content marketing takes effort, but the results compound, making it a high-ROI long-term strategy.Content marketing costs and budgeting FAQsContent marketing isn’t free, even when you’re not paying for ads. For these content marketing questions, we’ll talk more about realistic budgets, where to allocate spend, and what results you can expect for your investment.42. How much does content marketing cost?Content marketing costs vary widely based on scope, quality, and whether you handle it in-house or outsource. Most businesses spend $5,001 to $10,000 per month on content marketing. Smaller budgets are possible, with 27% of marketers spending less than $1,000 per month.Costs include content creation (writing, design, video), tools and software, distribution and promotion, and labor. If you work with freelancers, expect to pay $1,000 to $10,000 monthly, depending on volume and complexity.43. What is a realistic content marketing budget for small businesses?Small businesses can start content marketing with a modest budget and scale as they see results. Nearly a quarter of businesses spend $501 to $1,000 monthly on blog content alone.If you’re handling content in-house, your main costs are time and tools. If outsourcing, budget for at least a few quality pieces per month rather than a high volume of low-quality content. Start with what you can sustain, then increase investment as you see results.44. How should I allocate my content marketing budget?Allocate budget based on your goals and gaps. Most businesses split spend across content creation (writing, design, video production), tools and software (CMS, analytics, SEO tools), and distribution (paid promotion, email marketing).If you’re just starting, prioritize creation and foundational tools. As your library grows, shift more toward promotion and optimization.45. Is content marketing cheaper than paid advertising?Content marketing typically costs less per lead as time goes on, but it requires up-front investment and patience. Content marketing generates 54% more leads than traditional marketing and costs significantly less per acquisition in the long run.Paid ads deliver immediate traffic but stop working when you stop paying. Content continues driving traffic and leads long after it’s published. One effective approach often combines both: Use paid promotion to amplify high-performing content while building organic visibility.46. Should I invest in content marketing tools?Yes, but start with essentials and add tools as your needs grow. Appropriate content marketing tools can streamline tasks and speed up results. Consider tools in these categories:Content management systems (CMS): WordPress is the most popular option for publishing and managing content.Analytics tools: Google Analytics helps you track performance, traffic, and conversions.SEO and optimization tools: KeywordsFX, SEMrush, Surfer SEO, and Ahrefs help with keyword research and content optimization.Writing and editing tools: Grammarly and Hemingway Editor catch errors and improve readability.Content planning tools: Trello, Evernote, and Google Docs help organize your content calendar and workflow.Invest in tools that save time, improve quality, or provide insights you can’t get otherwise. Start with free tools and add paid options as your content operation scales.Common content marketing challenges and mistakes FAQsEven experienced marketers run into roadblocks with content. The following questions about content marketing explore the most common challenges, mistakes to avoid, and how to get your strategy back on track.47. What are the biggest content marketing challenges?The most common challenges marketers face include:Lack of internal resources.Measuring results.Aligning content with the customer journey.Creating the right content.Scaling production.These challenges are normal. The key is prioritizing quality over quantity, focusing on your highest-value content, and building systems to measure what carries weight.48. What content marketing mistakes should I avoid?Several common content marketing mistakes can undermine your content efforts.Not having a specific audience in mind: Writing for everyone means connecting with no one. Create marketing personas and tailor content to the people most likely to convert.Not having a unique angle: If hundreds of sites have already covered a topic, you need a fresh perspective to stand out. Ask how the topic is relevant to your specific audience.Writing about extremely broad topics: Vague overviews don’t help readers solve problems. Detailed explanations of specific topics perform better and rank for more keywords.Being overly promotional: Your content should inform and help, not sell. Build trust first. Save the sales pitch for your product pages.Not promoting content after publishing: Great content won’t find readers on its own. Share across social platforms, email, and consider outreach to expand reach.Not having measurable goals: If you’re not tracking results, you can’t improve. Set specific goals, measure performance, and revise your strategy based on what works.Avoiding these mistakes starts with having a clear strategy, understanding your audience, and committing to disciplined execution.49. How do I create content faster without sacrificing quality?To speed up without losing quality, build systems and processes.Create content templates for common formats.Batch similar tasks like research, writing, and editing.Repurpose existing content into new formats.Use AI tools for ideation and first drafts, then refine for quality and brand voice.Build a content calendar, so you’re never scrambling for ideas.Consider outsourcing specialized tasks like design or video production to free up internal bandwidth.50. How do I come up with new content ideas?16% of marketers say finding new ideas is a challenge, but ideas are everywhere once you know where to look.Start with your audience’s questions and pain points.Use keyword research tools to find what people are searching for.Review comments and questions from sales, customer service, and social media.Monitor competitors and industry publications for trending topics.Revisit and update older content with fresh angles.Keep a running list of ideas so you always have topics ready when it’s time to create.AI in content marketing FAQsAI is changing how marketers research, create, and optimize content. This list of questions on content marketing covers how AI fits into your strategy, where it adds the most value, and where human expertise still matters.51. How is AI changing content marketing?AI is transforming content marketing by speeding up research, streamlining workflows, and enabling personalization at scale. More than half of marketers now use AI for content marketing tasks like brainstorming topics, generating outlines, and optimizing copy.AI tools can analyze data, surface trends, and automate repetitive tasks that used to take hours. But AI works best as an assistant, not a replacement. The most effective teams use AI for efficiency while relying on humans for strategy, creativity, and quality control.52. Can I use AI to create content?You can, but proceed with caution. AI tools like ChatGPT and Jasper can generate drafts, outlines, and ideas quickly. However, AI-generated content often lacks originality, brand voice, and the depth that helps content rank and resonate.Websites that published AI content without human oversight have seen up to 95% drops in organic traffic after Google’s core updates. Use AI to assist with ideation, research, and first drafts, but always have humans refine, fact-check, and add expertise before publishing.53. What content marketing tasks can AI help with?AI works well for content tasks that benefit from speed and pattern recognition.Keyword and topic research: Generate keyword ideas and content clusters.Content outlining: Create draft structures and section breakdowns.Brainstorming: Surface new angles and ideas when you’re stuck.Proofreading: Catch grammar, spelling, and readability issues.Content optimization: Suggest SEO improvements and keyword gaps.Personalization: Tailor content for different audience segments at scale.AI is less effective for tasks requiring creativity, nuance, and expertise, like writing original content, building brand voice, or making strategic decisions.54. Will AI replace content marketers?No. AI is a tool that enhances what marketers do, not a replacement for human creativity, strategy, and judgment. AI can automate repetitive tasks, surface insights, and speed up production, but it can’t build authentic connections, understand nuanced brand voice, or make strategic decisions based on business context. The marketers who thrive will use AI as an assistant to boost efficiency while focusing their energy on strategy, creativity, and genuine audience engagement.55. What are the risks of using AI for content?AI content comes with real risks if not managed carefully.Accuracy issues: AI can hallucinate facts, cite sources that don’t exist, or produce outdated information.Quality control: AI content often lacks depth, originality, and the human touch that makes content engaging.SEO penalties: Google’s updates have penalized sites with thin, unhelpful AI-generated content.Plagiarism concerns: 60% of ChatGPT responses contain some form of plagiarism, according to a 2024 study.Brand voice: AI doesn’t understand your brand and produces generic, robotic-sounding copyThe solution is human oversight. Use AI as an assistive tool, but always review, edit, and add real value before publishing.56. What AI tools are useful for content marketing?Several AI tools can streamline your content workflow.ChatGPT: Topic research, outlines, brainstorming, clarification.Jasper AI: Marketing copy, ad copy, content drafts.Grammarly: Proofreading, tone analysis, readability improvements.Surfer SEO: Content optimization, keyword suggestions, SERP analysis.Canva AI: Quick graphics and visual content creation.TeamAI: Collaboration platform with access to multiple AI models.Choose tools based on your specific needs and always verify AI outputs before using them.Content marketing agency vs. in-house FAQsNot sure whether to build an internal content team or partner with experts? These content marketing FAQs uncover when to outsource, what agencies actually do, and how to find the right fit.57. Should I hire a content writer or work with an agency?It depends on your budget, content volume, and goals. Hiring an in-house writer gives you someone dedicated to your brand who understands your voice. However, salaries, benefits, and training add up, and one person may not have all the skills you need.A content marketing agency gives you access to a full team of writers, strategists, editors, designers, and SEO specialists that scales with your needs. If content marketing is stretching your bandwidth or you need expertise across multiple formats, an agency is often the smarter investment.58. What does a content marketing agency actually do?A content marketing agency handles strategy, creation, distribution, and measurement. Content marketing services typically include:Content audits and research: Reviewing existing content, analyzing competitors, and identifying gaps.Content strategy development: Building a custom plan aligned with your goals and audience.Content creation: Producing blog posts, videos, guides, infographics, social content, and more.Content calendars: Planning and scheduling content for consistent publishing.Distribution and promotion: Getting content in front of the right audience through SEO, social, email, and paid channels.Tracking and reporting: Measuring traffic, leads, engagement, and tying results to business outcomes.A good agency doesn’t just create content. They ensure it reaches the right people and drives measurable results.59. How do I choose the right content marketing agency?When choosing a content marketing partner, evaluate potential agencies based on:Results-driven focus: Do they prioritize metrics that impact revenue, not just vanity metrics like page views?Custom strategies: Do they create tailored plans or use a cookie-cutter approach?Transparency: Are they upfront about pricing, process, and reporting?Portfolio and testimonials: Can you see examples of their work and hear from past clients?Industry experience: Have they worked with companies in your industry or similar fields?Communication: Are they responsive, clear, and easy to work with?Effective content marketing companies understand how content marketing fits into your broader digital marketing strategy and business goals.60. What questions should I ask before hiring a content marketing agency?When writing a request for information (RFI) or before signing a contract, ask these key questions:What experience do you have in my industry?How do you develop a content strategy and choose topics?What does your content creation process look like?What content formats do you offer?How do you ensure content is optimized for search?What metrics do you track, and how often do you report?How do you measure content marketing ROI?Who will be my main point of contact?A good agency should explain its approach clearly and show how its work connects to business results. They should also be transparent about what’s included in their services.61. When should I consider outsourcing content marketing?Consider outsourcing content marketing when:You don’t have the internal resources to create content reliably.Your team lacks specialized skills like SEO or video production.You need to scale content output quickly.Your current content isn’t driving the results you want.You want access to diverse expertise without the overhead of multiple full-time hires.If you can’t execute well in-house, outsourcing is worth the investment.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Farmers and rural community members can access free mental health resources Farmers and those living in rural parts of the country are affected by mental health issues, and statistically, die by suicide at higher rates than other segments of the population.
	OSF names new president for QCA hospitals OSF HealthCare has a new president for three of its Western Region hospitals. Effective March 29, Zach Yoder, MHA, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE will transition to president of OSF HealthCare Holy Family Medical Center in Monmouth, OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee and OSF HealthCare St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg. He has been [...]
	What’s driving Easter menus this year? Taste, time and budget What’s driving Easter menus this year? Taste, time and budgetAs households prepare for Easter gatherings, many are looking for ways to make their favorite holiday classics more convenient without sacrificing the flavors that appeal to everyone, along with ways to make their favorite holiday classics more convenient and low-cost. Findings from a new survey provide a snapshot of how families are approaching holiday meal planning this year.Data from the survey conducted on behalf of Green Giant Vegetables by YouGov and fielded from Jan. 30 - Feb. 3, 2026 with 2,393 U.S. adults shows that shoppers preparing for Easter cooking are curating their menus with flavor, cost, time, and ingredient familiarity all in mind.Survey finds taste, time, quality and cost are top prioritiesAccording to the survey, home cooks aren’t choosing between taste and convenience this Easter: They want both.While planning to shop for Easter meal ingredients, the survey found:75% prioritize taste/flavorA combined 54% include prep time (35%) and ease/convenience (30%) in top three factors43% prioritize quality of ingredients37% cite costTime and money savings are keyThere is nothing worse than spending money on fancy ingredients and spending an extended amount of time cooking a complicated recipe only to have it turn out badly.Cooking with familiar ingredients builds confidence in the kitchen. A holiday like Easter is often tradition-driven, so tried and true staples empower home cooks with the confidence they need to create crowd-pleasing meals.Cost-conscious shoppers know how to prioritize familiarity and value when planning a holiday meal. Still, there is no doubt that hosting a home-cooked sit-down meal for a large group costs the host both time and money. Exactly how much time and money? According to the survey:75% spend 15 minutes or more prepping vegetables34% spend over 30 minutes prepping vegetables10% spend over an hour prepping vegetables57% plan to spend $1-$50 on side dishes Green Giant Vegetables Modern Easter cooking plansHosting an Easter meal for a large group of family and friends takes time, organization and creativity. Today’s home chef wants to impress and delight guests with recipes that are practical and easy to prepare, so they can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities. While flavor is nonnegotiable, the survey underscores that convenience often drives menu decisions.Save time on the sides Green Giant Vegetables While the holiday food centerpiece may require hours of preparation and cooking, the side dishes should be the simplest elements of the meal. Pantry and fridge staples are convenient, time-saving ingredients that can be easily added to every dish.Create a crowd-pleasing starter by combining zucchini and canned corn for savory zucchini corn bites with dill yogurt dipping sauce, or grab canned green beans from the pantry to quickly whip up these sautéed green beans with caramelized onions. Green Giant Vegetables This Easter, the perfect menu isn’t just about tradition; it’s about finding that sweet spot between celebration and real life. While great flavor is still the top priority, today’s shoppers are also weighing the importance of cost, prep time, and ingredients they already know and love.MethodologyAll figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,393 adults, of whom 1,134 plan to prepare at least one dish from scratch for Easter. Fieldwork was undertaken between Jan. 30 and Feb. 3, 2026. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all U.S. adults (aged 18 and over).This story was produced by Green Giant Vegetables and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What artist data reveals about the rise of Amapiano, a house music subgenre What artist data reveals about the rise of Amapiano, a house music subgenreMusic trends often arrive with a sense of urgency. A song goes viral, a dance spreads across social platforms, and a genre is suddenly labeled as “next up.” But viral moments do not always translate into lasting growth. To understand whether a genre is truly expanding, it helps to look past individual hits and examine how audiences are growing across artists over time.To evaluate genre-level growth patterns, this story analyzed artist data from Viberate Analytics, including profiles accessible via its artist search feature. By analyzing artist-level performance data across multiple genres, it asks which genre shows signs of sustained, structural growth rather than short-lived attention. The findings point consistently in one direction: Amapiano.Looking beyond chart spikesMany of the world’s most recognizable genres already command enormous audiences. Pop, hip-hop, and electronic music regularly dominate global charts, but short-term changes in those genres are often driven by superstar releases, promotional cycles, or seasonal listening patterns. That makes it difficult to tell whether a genre itself is growing or whether attention is simply shifting among familiar names.To address that challenge, this analysis focused on growth behavior instead of scale. Rather than asking which genre is biggest, it examined how growth is distributed across artists and whether that growth holds up over time.The data came from global Top 500 artist charts filtered by genre and observed over two timeframes: a 30-day snapshot and a three-month snapshot. Each genre was analyzed using the same approach, allowing patterns to be compared on equal footing.How growth was measuredFour indicators were used to evaluate whether a genre could reasonably be described as rising.First, growth distribution measured whether listener gains were shared across many artists or concentrated at the very top. If most growth comes from a small handful of stars, the genre may be popular without expanding.Second, pipeline strength looked at whether mid-tier and smaller artists were growing faster, in percentage terms, than established leaders. This pattern often signals that new listeners are entering the genre through multiple artists rather than circulating among the same few names.Third, persistence examined how many artists appeared in both the 30-day and three-month charts. A stable but not overwhelming overlap suggests continuity without stagnation.Finally, temporal consistency compared short-term growth with three-month trends to reduce the risk of mistaking short-lived spikes for meaningful momentum.Comparing genres on equal termsSeveral genres were evaluated using this framework, including Amapiano, Afrobeat, Afropop, K-pop, and Techno. Each of these genres is influential in different ways, and each showed strength in at least one dimension.Afrobeat and Afropop posted strong short-term growth, but much of that growth was concentrated among a small group of top artists. K-pop showed high persistence across timeframes, with many of the same artists remaining visible month after month, though growth was heavily centered on its biggest acts. Techno, meanwhile, displayed remarkable stability but relatively modest growth, consistent with a mature genre in equilibrium.Amapiano stood apart because it combined several favorable signals at once. Viberate Analytics Lower concentration indicates that listener growth is spread across more artists, rather than being driven by a small number of top acts.Amapiano’s growth is widely sharedIn the 30-day snapshot, Amapiano showed one of the lowest levels of growth concentration among the genres analyzed. The top artist accounted for less than 6% of observed listener gains, while the top 10 together represented just over one-third. In comparison, the top 10 artists in K-pop captured more than half of all observed growth.This distribution matters because it suggests that Amapiano’s momentum does not hinge on a single breakout moment. Instead, growth is spread across dozens of artists at the same time.A clear pipeline of rising artistsTier-level analysis reinforced this picture. When artists were grouped by current listener size, smaller Amapiano artists showed faster median percentage growth than the genre’s leaders. Artists ranked outside the top 200 recorded median percentage growth above 24% in the 30-day window, compared with under 16% for the top tier.That pattern points to a functioning pipeline, where new and mid-level artists are attracting listeners at a faster relative pace. In genres with flatter pipelines, growth tends to recycle attention among established names rather than bringing in new audiences. Viberate Analytics The upward trend toward smaller artists highlights the genre’s ability to generate new audience growth beyond its most established names.Momentum that holds over timeShort-term growth can be misleading if it fades quickly. To address that risk, the analysis compared Amapiano’s 30-day and three-month charts.Of the Top 500 artists in each period, 281 appeared in both. More than three-quarters of those overlapping artists recorded positive growth in both windows. At the same time, over 200 artists entered or exited the chart between snapshots, showing that the genre continues to renew itself.This balance between persistence and turnover suggests that Amapiano’s rise is not a fleeting surge but an ongoing process.What individual artists showArtist-level examples mirror the broader trend. Established figures such as Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa continued to add listeners across both timeframes, showing that leading artists are still expanding their reach. Mid-tier artists like Tyler ICU recorded steady gains, while artists such as Mellow & Sleazy and Scotts Maphuma posted strong relative growth over both the short and medium term.Not every artist followed the same path, and some experienced periods of stabilization. Taken together, however, these trajectories align with the genre-level pattern of distributed and sustained growth.A genre in expansionAcross all measures used in this analysis, Amapiano stands out as the clearest example of structural genre growth among those examined. Its rise is not defined by a single hit or star, but by broad, persistent audience gains across its artist ecosystem.For readers trying to understand how genres evolve in a crowded global music landscape, Amapiano offers a case study in how sustained growth looks when viewed through music analytics rather than headlines alone.This story was produced by Viberate Analytics and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Most Americans feel financially literate, but tax confidence and education gaps persist Most Americans feel financially literate, but tax confidence and education gaps persist New data from a survey of 1,095 U.S. adults by Intuit Credit Karma and TurboTax highlights how many Americans feel they are making informed financial decisions. Here’s what the data reveals.74% of Americans consider themselves to be financially literate83% said their parents’ attitudes toward money and financial tools (e.g., credit cards, saving, and budgeting) influenced how they think about and approach those same topics today52% said they have experienced a setback due to a financial decision they made that was based on incorrect information“I’ve Got This” … Or Do We?Nearly three-quarters of Americans (74%) say they consider themselves financially literate, especially when it comes to budgeting, with 64% feeling very or extremely confident managing a budget. But confidence drops sharply with more complex financial topics. 35% of Americans feel only slightly or not at all confident about their investing knowledge, 22% feel slightly or not at all confident about taxes, and 26% feel slightly or not at all confident about loans.Even though many Americans feel financially literate to an extent, one-third of respondents (67%) admit they’d be further ahead in life if they were more financially literate. This shows that while many feel confident in their financial knowledge, they still recognize there are gaps that may be holding them back.The Tax Knowledge Gap Is RealTaxes are a particular sticking point for Americans. More than half of Americans (55%) say they depend on a parent, accountant or friend to help them file their taxes because they lack the foundational knowledge to do it confidently on their own. Among Gen Z, that number jumps to 72%.When it comes to understanding the fundamentals, only about half (49%) say they can confidently explain the difference between a tax deduction and a tax credit. Meanwhile, 17% say they aren’t knowledgeable about any of the major deductions and credits, from the Child Tax Credit to the Earned Income Tax Credit.Given these gaps, it’s no surprise that three-quarters (76%) say a required school course on personal tax filing would have been very-to-extremely valuable to their lives today.When it comes time to file, most Americans turn to online tax preparation software like TurboTax (54%), while 21% use a certified accountant and 19% go with an in-person service. Just 7% still file by hand.Schools Fall Short on MoneyToday’s financial literacy gap starts in school. Nearly 4 in 10 Americans (39%) don’t believe school prepared them to manage their finances as an adult.Here are the financial topics they wish they’d learned in class:64% investing56% creating a budget50% filing taxes51% credit card basics51% debt managementParents Shape Money HabitsIf school fell short, who filled the gap? For most people, it was family: 61% of Americans say their parents or grandparents had the greatest influence on their financial habits growing up, and 83% say their parents’ attitudes toward money still shape how they think about it today.But influence doesn’t stop at home. Roughly 1 in 5 (21%) say social media and influencers influenced their financial habits growing up, climbing to 29% among millennials.The Convenience TrapOne area where the survey reveals a generational divide: the prioritization of convenience over cost. More than half of Americans (53%) agree that when it comes to subscriptions and services (like Netflix or DoorDash), convenience wins over price-consciousness.But that tendency skews heavily by age. A striking 76% of Millennials agree, compared to just 25% of Boomers. Gen Z clocks in at 58%, suggesting that the “subscribe to everything” mentality may be softening slightly among the youngest adults.On the flip side, 80% of Americans say they do know exactly how many subscription services they’re currently paying for, which is a start.How Emotions Shape Financial Decisions … and Increase RiskWhen it comes to the emotions that influence Americans’ financial decisions, confidence tops the list (39%), followed by optimism (20%), with fear not far behind at 14%.That emotional decision-making can come at a cost. Nearly half of Americans (52%) say they’ve experienced a financial setback due to a decision based on incorrect information.That vulnerability may also help explain rising concern about financial scams: 40% of Americans say they’re very or extremely worried about falling victim to one, while another 48% are at least moderately concerned. In an era of increasingly sophisticated fraud, that wariness may be well-founded.The Bottom LineAmericans are more financially engaged than they sometimes get credit for, but engagement and education aren’t the same thing. The data suggests a population that is largely winging it, learning from family by default, and quietly wishing someone had given them a proper foundation earlier.The good news? It’s never too late. Whether it’s finally understanding your W-4, getting clear on what deductions you qualify for, or building a budget that actually sticks, one of the most important financial moves is simply deciding to learn and take action.MethodologyThe survey was conducted online within the United States by Qualtrics on behalf of Intuit Credit Karma from March 5 to March 8, 2026, among 1,095 adults ages 18 and older.This story was produced by Intuit Credit Karma and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Supreme Court declines to review press freedom case At issue was the 2017 arrest in Texas of a journalist who published news stories about a border agent's public suicide and a car crash.
	The protection gap: Why 54 million women don’t have enough, or any, life insurance coverage The protection gap: Why 54 million women don’t have enough, or any, life insurance coverageIt’s no secret that women are continuing to make great strides from an economic and financial standpoint. Women made up over half of the labor force (57%) in 2025, and according to McKinsey, they controlled over a third of total U.S. assets under management as of 2023. Women are reshaping financial power in America.Women also consistently outpace men in financial concern, with more women than men worried about having enough money for retirement (47% vs. 42%), paying for long-term care services (40% vs. 35%), and being able to save money for an emergency (40% vs. 35%), according to LIMRA’s 2023 Insurance Barometer Study. In other words, women are building wealth and are concerned with how to protect that wealth over the long term.So why do 54 million women not have enough — or any — life insurance coverage? Everly Life looks at data that offers insight into the gap.Why Does Life Insurance Ownership for Women Lag Behind Men?That question sits at the center of one of the biggest protection gaps in the life insurance industry — that between men and women. Pew Research in 2023 found almost a third of women earn the same amount of money as their male spouses, and 16% of households have the wife as the primary breadwinner. Still, women are more likely than men to remain underinsured or lack coverage altogether (49% vs. 55%, respectively), according to LIMRA.This gap isn’t a new phenomenon; in fact, LIMRA research suggests that this gap has been present since 2011, when 65% of men and 61% of women had life insurance coverage. What’s even more interesting is that the protection gap has widened over the last 15 years, with the biggest ownership discrepancy between women and men occurring in 2021 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic (58% men vs. 47% women).The Roots of the Protection Gap: How Did We Get Here?The reasons driving the protection gap largely come down to misconceptions about life insurance as a product and the need for better life insurance education from carriers.As it turns out, persistent beliefs prevent women from wanting to learn more about life insurance. A quarter of women believe that life insurance shouldn't make anyone richer from their death. Nearly as many believe they can't personally benefit from a policy. One in 5 think life insurance is only for final expenses, according to a 2023 LIMRA survey.The protection gap may also be compounded by the industry’s lack of accessible education on life insurance as a financial product. When asked for reasons why they didn’t own life insurance, women pointed out that it’s too expensive (42%), they had other competing financial priorities (30%), and they weren’t sure how much they needed or what type they should buy (25%).Inaccessible product education ends up having a trickle-down effect on confidence levels. Only 22% of women describe themselves as "very" or "extremely" knowledgeable about life insurance, compared to 33% of men. When misconceptions persist and education remains inaccessible, even financially engaged women may hesitate to get life insurance protection.Showing Up Where It Counts: How Carriers Can Better Engage WomenGiven women are more likely than men to be concerned about their finances, it stands to reason that removing the above barriers and better engaging with women could help carriers significantly shrink the protection gap.Thirty-nine percent of women surveyed by LIMRA in 2023 had an insurance agent or primary financial advisor, and 44% say they would research life insurance online but ultimately buy from a professional in person. This research suggests carriers should invest in stronger partnerships with advisors who are already having broader financial conversations with women, as they can help position life insurance as a critical component to retirement and estate planning.Carriers may also provide accessible insurance education where women are likely to encounter it. Sixty-three percent of women use Facebook to research financial products, 51% use YouTube, and 35% use Instagram. Carriers who want to build trust with women policyholders may want to prioritize providing women on these platforms with education-first content that demystifies life insurance.It’s Time to Close the Protection GapThe life insurance protection gap is a solvable problem, but closing it requires carriers to show up differently, through stronger advisor partnerships and more accessible education.Women are already building wealth, carrying financial responsibility, and thinking about their families' futures. The next step is making sure the insurance industry meets them with the tools and access they deserve.This story was produced by Everly Life and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to prevent razor bumps and burns when shaving How to prevent razor bumps and burns when shavingWhat are razor bumps and burns?Razor burn is a very common skin irritation that happens after shaving. Razor bumps are little raised bumps, often red, white or black that appear as a symptom of razor burn. Other symptoms or razor burns include red, itchy or burning sensations on your skin. Typically razor burns are temporary and can be resolved at home by cleaning and moisturizing the affected area. Read on for tips from Dove on how to prevent razor bumps and burns.What causes razor burns and bumps?The most popular reasons you might experience razor burn, include:Dull razor bladesShaving against the grainIngrown hairsNot using shaving cream or gelUsing shaving cream or gel that irritates your skinSensitive skinNot taking your time shavingShaving too oftenTips for preventing and avoiding razor burns and bumpsFollowing a shaving routine to care for your skin can help prevent razor burns and bumps. We recommend the following steps for days you are shaving:1. Start your shower with exfoliation.Use a gentle body scrub to exfoliate the area you are shaving at the beginning of your shower or bath. This will help remove dead skin cells and open pores, allowing for a closer shave.2. Prepare your skin before shaving.To help minimize skin irritation after shaving, make sure you spend a few minutes under the shower before applying shaving cream. Shaving at the end of your shower makes remembering this easy. Warm water softens and raises the hair, working with the foam to make it easier to shave without catching the skin. If you are short on time, thoroughly dampen your underarms, legs or the area you are shaving with a warm, wet wash cloth before picking up your foam and razor to reduce discomfort after shaving.3. Apply shaving cream or gel.Shaving cream or gel provides an extra barrier between your skin and the razor. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin or existing razor burn.4. Shave in the right direction.You should always try to shave in the direction of hair growth — i.e. stroking the razor from the root to the tip of the hair. This causes less disturbance to the skin, so you’re less likely to provoke a razor burn or an itchy rash.5. Use a clean, sharp razor blade.Using a sharp razor blade allows you to shave close to get a shave that is close to the skin, minimizing the risk for razor burn and bumps. Rinsing your razor blade after each stroke can help with this too.6. Choose an antiperspirant deodorant that doesn’t irritate skin.If you find yourself searching “how to calm razor burn?” it’s important to choose a deodorant that will help to care for and sooth dry underarms. Underarm skin tends to be more delicate, so a good way to choose an antiperspirant deodorant that doesn’t irritate skin is making sure it doesn’t contain alcohol.7. Rinse skin with cold water.Cold water can help close your pores, reducing the risk of bacteria entering after shaving.8. Apply sensitive skin moisturizer.After shaving, it’s important to soothe your skin with a moisturizer made for sensitive skin.Does deodorant burn after shaving?Deodorant can burn after shaving because shaving removes the top layer of skin, making your skin more sensitive to harsh ingredients. If your deodorant burns your armpits after shaving, consider switching to a sensitive skin deodorant. You can also shave at night or wait a few minutes to apply deodorant.How to soothe and calm razor burn and bumpsNearly everyone is going to experience razor burn some time in their lifetime. The good news is it is fairly easy to treat and should go away quickly. As soon as you notice your razor burn or bumps, apply a clean, cold washcloth to the affected area to reduce inflammation. After that moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Use a sensitive skin friendly body lotion with minimal fragrance to help soothe and replenish the irritated skin.This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Tuesday, March 24th, 2026

Monday, March 23rd, 2026