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

Thursday, February 26th, 2026
	U.S. and Iran to hold a third round of nuclear talks in Geneva Iran and the United States prepared to meet Thursday in Geneva for nuclear negotiations, as America has gathered a fleet of aircraft and warships to the Middle East to pressure Tehran into a deal.
	FIFA's Infantino confident Mexico can co-host World Cup despite cartel violence FIFA President Gianni Infantino says he has "complete confidence" in Mexico as a World Cup co-host despite days of cartel violence in the country that has left at least 70 people dead.
Wednesday, February 25th, 2026
	Bettendorf business expects continued growth discussed in mayor's State of the City address Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher highlighted business growth and infrastructure plans during his State of the City address, as businesses expect continued development.
	Moline to launch comprehensive plan update with March 4 open house Moline will kick off its first comprehensive plan update since 2001 with a community open house on March 4 at Mercado on Fifth.
	QCA sled hockey player heads to fourth Paralympic Games in Milan Kevin McKee is heading to his fourth Paralympic Games, representing the United States in sled hockey in Milan, Italy.
	Fulton program to feature spokesperson from Illinois State Climatologist office The monthly Millers program will feature Trent Ford, Ph.D., with the Illinois State Climatologist office, whose presentation will begin at 6 p.m. Monday, March 16, at the Windmill Cultural Center, 111 10th Ave., Fulton. The Illinois State Climatologist provides weather and climate data, maps, and information for Illinois farmers, government agencies, and the general public. [...]
	Mayor Bob Gallagher delivers Bettendorf State of the City address Bettendorf mayor Bob Gallagher delivered his annual State of the City address. Gallagher said the city is in good shape, but there could be obstacles in the form of proposed property tax reforms. He said he wants to continue growing the city and bring in more entertainment options to downtown Bettendorf. Gallagher said there are [...]
	130-year-old bridge in Burlington to be replaced The City of Burlington received $6 million in federal funding to improve on a 130-year-old bridge. The Cascade Bridge has been closed to drivers since 2008 and to pedestrians since 2019. "It's been a conversation piece ever since I came to town," said Burlington Deputy City Manager Nick MacGregor. City staff say they've been working [...]
	Iowa bill to freeze tuition at public universities moves forward A bill to freeze tuition at public universities in Iowa passed the State House of Representatives. House File 2242 would hold tuition steady for five years at state universities to make college more affordable. Some lawmakers raised concerns about lower state funding for higher education. House File 2488 would penalize private colleges and universities that [...]
	Davenport Fire Department gets green light to join regional fire mutual aid system The Davenport City Council approved a resolution Wednesday night that will connect the city’s fire department to a regional emergency response network
	Iowa City police seek help identifying person of interest in vehicle burglary investigation Iowa City police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man believed to be connected to a vehicle burglary investigation.
	Iowa bill for voters to prove citizenship status advances A bill to would force counties in Iowa to prove citizenship status of voters passed the State Senate. Counties would need to use the federal SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) database for the verification. Senate File 2203 lays out the framework for counties to use the database. People whose counties can't confirm they are [...]
	Trump is all in on mining in Alaska. With one glaring exception: Pebble. Kaskanak Creek in the Bristol Bay's Kvichak watershed is seen from the air on Sept. 27, 2011. The Kvichak watershed would be damaged by the Pebble mine project, the Environmental Protection Agency has determined. (Photo provided by Environmental Protection Agency) For as long as Donald Trump has been president, he has been talking about unleashing Alaska’s natural resources and boosting mining across the state. His administration’s lawyers, however, delivered an entirely different message in a new court filing about the controversial Pebble project in Alaska’s Bristol Bay region. After sending mixed signals last year, the Trump administration appears now to be firmly backing a Biden-era decision to veto Pebble, a huge proposed copper, gold and molybdenum mine that would be built near streams that support the state’s most lucrative salmon fishery. It’s the clearest indication yet of the second Trump administration’s position on the mine proposal, and it puts Trump officials in an unusual position — on the same side as Alaska environmental groups and against the administration of Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy, a Trump ally and Pebble supporter. The filing caused the stock price of Pebble’s parent company to plunge by nearly 40%, from over $2 per share to $1.23 — a sign that investors viewed it as a blow to the project. (The stock price has since rebounded to $1.52 per share, as of Feb. 24.) In a 129-page brief in Alaska’s federal district court, U.S. Department of Justice attorneys echoed the views of Pebble critics, saying the project could harm salmon habitat and threaten fishing in Bristol Bay, which generates as much as $2 billion in some years through commercial and recreational harvests. The watershed is “a largely undisturbed, globally significant economic, ecological, and cultural resource,” wrote Laura Brown and Mario Luna, lawyers with the Justice Department’s environmental defense section. Vetoing Pebble, they added, was “reasonable, and amply supported by the robust record.” The filing marks the latest twist in a decades long fight over the embattled mine project, owned by a subsidiary of Vancouver-based Northern Dynasty Minerals. The massive mineral deposit sits near some of the state’s most productive salmon streams, but supporters say building a mine there could create high-paying jobs and stimulate the rural region’s economy. The proposal has long fueled debate locally and across the state. And it has stood out as a rare resource development project that hasn’t received Trump’s full blessing. While the president has vigorously promoted other major Alaska industrial projects, including a trans-state gas pipeline and the Ambler Road, he has remained silent about Pebble. His first administration initially appeared supportive of the project, reversing Obama-era policies that slowed it. But some high-profile conservatives and Trump advisers — including his son, Donald Trump Jr., who’s fished recreationally in the region — spoke out against the project, and regulators denied Pebble a key permit in 2020. The Biden administration took further steps to block Pebble, invoking a rarely used authority under the federal Clean Water Act in 2023 to veto the project. But the developer hasn’t given up: Pebble sued federal regulators in 2024 and has been spending millions of dollars a year on legal fees, according to filings with Canadian securities regulators. After Trump took office a second time, his administration, in court filings, initially signaled an openness to reconsidering the decision and reaching a legal settlement. But the parties were unable to reach an agreement. And, now, with the new filing last week, the administration is squarely defending the decision to block the project. The news has been met with praise from environmental groups that typically fiercely oppose Trump’s actions. The Justice Department’s filing “makes clear that the Trump administration understands the proposed Pebble Mine is the wrong mine in the wrong place, posing unacceptable risks to one of America’s most valuable fisheries and those who depend on it,” Mary Catharine Martin, communications director for the conservation group SalmonState, said in a statement. Pebble officials, meanwhile, say the administration’s position is short-sighted and more aligned with anti-mining groups and Democrats than a Republican president. “This veto runs counter to the pro-development, pro-mining and pro-energy policies of this administration,” John Shively, Pebble’s chief executive, said in a statement. “America needs the minerals at Pebble. Alaska needs the economic activity it would generate,” he added. Pebble continues “to keep the lines of communication with the administration open as an administrative resolution remains an option,” the company’s vice president of public affairs, Mike Heatwole, said in a text message. Pebble spent $490,000 on federal lobbying efforts last year, according to federal disclosures. Susie Wiles, who is now Trump’s chief of staff, previously worked as a lobbyist for Pebble. The company now uses a different high-powered firm, Squire Patton Boggs. Northern Journal contributor Max Graham can be reached at max@northernjournal.com. He’s interested in any and all mining related stories, as well as introductory meetings with people in and around the industry. This article was originally published in Northern Journal, a newsletter from Nathaniel Herz. Subscribe at this link. Courtesy of Alaska Beacon
	National Invasive Species Awareness Week highlights local threats From emerald ash borers to mulberry trees, there are plenty of invasive species in the QCA. However, here's why you might see less of one of those.
	Bettendorf State of the City: Continued growth with some uncertainty on the horizon While the city is undertaking several construction projects this year, Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher warned of uncertainty ahead as lawmakers consider limiting property tax revenues.
	Pair of Moline teachers nominated for Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching Kelly Beem and Luann Lindauer of Franklin Elementary were among 28 finalists from across Illinois. They were selected from around 600 nominations.
	Two Moline teachers are finalists for the Golden Apple Award Selected from nearly 600 nominations statewide, Kelly Beem, a fourth-grade teacher covering all subjects, and Luann Lindauer, a fifth-grade teacher covering all subjects at Benjamin Franklin Elementary School in Moline, are two of just 30 finalists for the 2026 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, recognized for the impact they are making in their [...]
	Davenport City Council approves Tim Gleason as permanent city administrator He has served as the city's interim city administrator since November,
	Black Hawk College celebrates jazz history during Black History Month Moline event highlights jazz’s role in Black culture and its influence on modern music.
	Rep. Miller-Meeks responds to Whirlpool facility layoffs Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks released a statement on Whirlpool laying off hundreds of workers at its Amana production facility.
	Eisenhower Elementary, Davenport, gets nationwide donations for fundraiser Matthew Golden and the rest of the Eisenhower Elementary School PTA board were contacting various organizations around the Quad Cities area asking for donations just before Christmas. They needed items and coupons for their annual trivia night fundraiser. On a whim, Golden decided to have some fun with emails and threw out a couple to [...]
	Iowa state Senate OKs use of SAVE to verify immigration statuses for public assistance, voter registration The Iowa Senate approved five bills Wednesday requiring the state to use the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements or SAVE, which is administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
	QCA travel agent says clients in Mexico are safe as others rethink trips The aftermath of a cartel leader’s death in Mexico has some American travelers rethinking their vacation plans — weighing whether to make changes or cancel trips altogether.
	Davenport approves hire of new city administrator The City of Davenport has approved the hire of their new city administrator.
	'From prison to purpose': Davenport man competes in national fitness competition A Davenport father is one of 10 finalists in the 2026 Mr. Health and Fitness competition. Arron Jenkins' faith and fitness journey took him from a federal prison to now being an aspiring entrepreneur. "I'd caught a federal offense. I was indicted, I didn't get probation or any of that. I went straight to prison," [...]
	Could we see some flurries later tonight? After ample amounts of sunshine earlier today, we are getting some clouds and looking at a chance for snow later tonight. The timing of this snow is looking around 10pm later tonight which is mainly staying to the Southwest of the Quad Cities. This potential snow is going to be bringing a substantial amount of [...]
	Why Michelangelo’s ‘Last Judgment’ endures Michelangelo’s fresco of “The Last Judgment,” covering the wall behind the altar of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, is being restored. The work, which started on Feb. 1, 2026, is expected to continue for three months. The Sistine Chapel is one of the great masterpieces of Renaissance art. As the setting where the College of Cardinals of the Catholic Church meets to elect a new pope, it was decorated by the most prestigious painters of the day. In 1480, Pope Sixtus IV commissioned Domenico Ghirlandaio, Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino and Cosimo Rosselli to paint the walls. On the south are six scenes of the “Life of Moses,” and across on the north are six scenes of the “Life of Christ.” In 1508, Pope Julius II commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling. The theme is the Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible. The images show God creating the world through the story of Noah, who was directed by God to shelter humans and animals on an ark during the great flood. The ceiling’s most famous scene may be “God Creating Adam,” where Adam reaches out his arm to the outstretched arm of God the Father, but their fingers fail to meet. At the sides, the artist juxtaposed the male Hebrew prophets and the female Greek and Roman sybils who were inspired by the gods to foretell the future. It was completed in 1512; then in 1536, Michelangelo was asked to create a painting for the wall behind the altar. For this immense work of 590 square feet (about square meters), filled with 391 figures, he labored until 1541. He was then nearly 67 years old. As an art historian, I have been aware how, from the beginning, Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment” sparked controversy for its bold and heroic portrayal of the male nude. Many layers of meaning Michelangelo liked to consider himself primarily a sculptor, expressing himself in variations of the nude male body. Most famous may be the Old Testament figure of David about to slay Goliath, originally made for the Cathedral of Florence. The artist’s ceiling for the Sistine Chapel had included 20 nude males as supporting figures above the prophets and sibyls. Originally, Michelangelo’s Christ of “The Last Judgment” was entirely nude. A later painter was hired to provide drapery over the loins of Christ and other figures. “The Last Judgment” scene also contains multiple references to pagan gods and mythology. The image of Christ is inspired by early Christian images showing Christ beardless and youthful, similar to the pagan god of light, Apollo. Group of the damned with Minos, judge of the underworld. Sistine Chapel Collection, Michelangelo via Wikimedia Commons At the bottom of the composition is the figure of Charon, a personage from Greek mythology who rowed souls over the river Styx to enter the pagan underworld. Minos, the judge of the underworld, is on the extreme right. Giorgio Vasari, a fellow artist and historian who knew Michelangelo personally, later recounted the criticism by a senior Vatican official, Biagio da Cesena. The official stated that it was disgraceful that nude figures were exposed so shamefully and that the painting seemed more fit for public baths and taverns. Michelangelo’s response was to place the face of Biagio on Minos, the judge of the underworld, and give him donkey’s ears, symbolizing stupidity. A detail of a scene connected to the Apostle Bartholomew in ‘The Last Judgment.’ Sistine Chapel Collection via Wikimedia Michelangelo included a reference to his own life in a detail connected to the Apostle Bartholomew, who is located to the lower right of Christ. The apostle was believed to have met his martyrdom by being flayed alive. In his right hand, he holds a knife and, in his left, his flayed skin whose face is a distorted portrait of the artist. Michelangelo thus placed himself among the blessed in heaven, but also made it into a joke. Thought-provoking imagery The Last Judgment is a common theme in Christian art. Michelangelo, however, pushes beyond simple illustration to include pagan myths as well as to challenge traditional depiction of a calm, bearded judge. He uses dramatic imagery to provoke deeper thought: After all, how does anyone on Earth know what the saints do in heaven? In these decisions, Michelangelo displayed his sense of self-confidence to introduce new ideas and his goal to engage the viewer in new ways. A digital reproduction of the painting will be displayed on a screen for visitors to the Sistine Chapel during this period of restoration. Behind the screen, technicians from the Vatican Museums’ Restoration Laboratory will work to restore the masterpiece. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Virginia Raguin, College of the Holy Cross Read more: 5 weird armours from history How the next pope will be elected – what goes on at the conclave Catholics are debating whether to remove paintings by a priest accused of abusing women − but let’s not confuse the artist and the art, writes an art historian Virginia Raguin does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Temperature turnaround coming - close to a record high later this week! After a chilly Wednesday afternoon with highs only in the 30s, we'll be close to a record high on Friday! The record high for Friday is 69° and we're calling for 66° that afternoon. And after a brief cooldown this weekend (with a chance for snow) things do warm back up early in March.
	Tips for combatting invasive species in the Quad Cities area It's National Invasive Species Awareness Week. Invasive plants and insects can strain resources in our local ecosystems, driving out native plants and animals.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: REGINALD CALHOUN, 43, 5’5”, 230 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Wanted by Iowa DOC High Risk Unit for escape on a conviction for felon [...]
	Traffic Alert: Iowa DOT to begin work on U.S. 61, Monday A traffic alert for drivers in Davenport.
	City of Muscatine pauses organic recycling program amid cost concerns Muscatine has paused its organic recycling program after funding shortfalls and rising wastewater treatment costs tied to mineral buildup.
	Supreme Court appears split in tax foreclosure case At issue is whether a county can seize homeowners' residence for unpaid property taxes and sell the house at auction for less than the homeowners would get if they put their home on the market themselves.
	Moline residents invited to community open house to help shape city’s future Moline residents are invited to an open house in March to help shape the future of the city.
	Bettendorf Mayor outlines progress and challenges in “State of the City” Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher discussed the city's progress, plans and challenges in his annual “State of the City” address Wednesday, Feb. 25 at Waterfront Convention Center in downtown Bettendorf.
	Do you really need to read to learn? What neuroscience says about reading versus listening Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. “Do we need to read, or can we just get everything through audio, like podcasts and audiobooks?” – Sebastian L., 15, Skanderborg, Denmark Let’s start with a thought experiment: Close your eyes and imagine what the future might look like in a few hundred years. Are people intergalactic travelers zooming between galaxies? Maybe we live on spaceships, underwater worlds or planets with purple skies. Now, picture your bedroom as a teenager of the future. There’s probably a glowing screen on the wall. And when you look out the window, maybe you see Saturn’s rings, Neptune’s blue glow or the wonders of the ocean floor. Now ask yourself: Is there a book in the room? Open your eyes. Chances are, there’s a book nearby. Maybe it’s on your nightstand or shoved under your bed. Some people have only one; others have many. You’ll still find books today, even in a world filled with podcasts. Why is that? If we can listen to almost anything, why does reading still matter? As a language scientist, I study how biological factors and social experiences shape language. My work explores how the brain processes spoken and written language, using tools like MRI and EEG. Whether reading a book or listening to a recording, the goal is the same: understanding. But these activities aren’t exactly alike. Each supports comprehension in different ways. Listening doesn’t provide all the benefits of reading, and reading doesn’t offer everything listening does. Both are important, but they are not interchangeable. My colleagues and I use brain scans like this MRI to study what the brain is doing when a person reads. Rajaaisya/Science Photo Library via Getty Images via The Conversation Different brain processes Your brain uses some of the same language and cognitive systems for both reading and listening, but it also performs different functions depending on how you’re taking in the information. When you read, your brain is working hard behind the scenes. It recognizes the shapes of letters, matches them to speech sounds, connects those sounds to meaning, then links those meanings across words, sentences and even whole books. The text uses visual structure such as punctuation marks, paragraph breaks or bolded words to guide understanding. You can go at your own speed. Listening, on the other hand, requires your brain to work at the pace of the speaker. Because spoken language is fleeting, listeners must rely on cognitive processes, including memory to hold onto what they just heard. Speech is also a continuous stream, not neatly separated words. When someone speaks, the sounds blend together in a process called coarticulation. This requires the listener’s brain to quickly identify word boundaries and connect sounds to meanings. Beyond identifying the words themselves, the listener’s brain must also pay attention to tone, speaker identity and context to understand the speaker’s meaning. ‘Easier’ is relative – and contextual Many people assume that listening is easier than reading, but this is not usually the case. Research shows that listening can be harder than reading, especially when the material is complex or unfamiliar. Listening and reading comprehension are more similar for simple narratives, like fictional stories, than for nonfiction books or essays that explain facts, ideas or how things work. My research shows that genre affects how you read. In fact, different kinds of texts rely on specialized brain networks. Fictional stories engage regions of the brain involved in social understanding and storytelling. Nonfiction texts, on the other hand, rely on a brain network that helps with strategic thinking and goal-directed attention. Reading difficult material tends to be easier than listening from a practical standpoint, as well. Reading lets you move around within the text easily, rereading particular sections if you’re struggling to understand, or underlining important points to revisit later. A listener who is having trouble following a particular point must pause and rewind, which is less precise than scanning a page and can interrupt the flow of listening, impeding understanding. Even so, for some people, like those with developmental dyslexia, listening may be easier. Individuals with developmental dyslexia often struggle to apply their knowledge of written language to correctly pronounce written words, a process known as decoding. Listening allows the brain to extract meaning without the difficult process of decoding. Engaging with the material One last thing to consider is engagement. In this context, engagement refers to being mentally present, actively focusing, processing information and connecting ideas to what you already know. People often listen while doing other things, like exercising, cooking or browsing the internet – activities that would be hard to do while reading. When researchers asked college students to either read or listen to a podcast on their own time, students who read the material performed significantly better on a quiz than those who listened. Many of the students who listened reported multitasking, such as clicking around on their computers while the podcast played. This is particularly important, as paying attention appears to be more important for listening comprehension than reading comprehension. So, yes, reading still matters, even when listening is an option. Each activity offers something different, and they are not interchangeable. The best way to learn is not by treating books and audio recordings as the same, but by knowing how each works and using both to better understand the world. Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live. And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Stephanie N. Del Tufo, University of Delaware Read more:How do children learn to read? This literacy expert says ‘there are as many ways as there are students’There’s more than one good way to teach kids how to readWant to spur your child’s intellectual development? Use audiobooks instead of videosStephanie N. Del Tufo, Ph.D. research has been supported by the National Institutes of Health (NICHD, NIDCD, NIE, NINDS), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Spencer Foundation, the University of Delaware, the W.M. Keck Foundation, the Ellison Medical Foundation, the ASHA Foundation, and several professional organizations including American Educational Research Association (AERA), Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD), the Association for Psychological Science (APS), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the International Literacy Association (ILA).
	Reading to young kids improves their social skills − and a new study shows it doesn’t matter whether parents stop to ask questions In 2024, 51% of families read aloud to their very young children, while 37% read aloud to their kids between the ages of 6 and 8 years old. Some parents have said they stop reading aloud to their school-age children because their kids can read on their own. I’m a neuroscientist with four children, and I wondered whether children might be losing more than just the pleasure of listening to books read aloud. In particular, I wondered whether it affected their empathy and creativity. A simple idea from the literature I have studied and written about empathy and creativity as part of my personal effort to better understand how to be a good parent. I have found that empathy and creativity aren’t talents you’re born with or without. They are skills that respond to practice, just like learning to play piano. But my children weren’t being taught either empathy or creativity in elementary school. And the data showed that young people’s empathy and creativity may have dropped over the past few decades. Empathy isn’t just about being nice. It’s a superpower that helps children predict behavior and navigate social situations safely. It makes them better at reading faces and emotional cues. And creativity is essential for self-control and problem-solving. It’s much easier to regulate your behavior if you can imagine multiple solutions to a problem instead of fixating on the one thing you’re not supposed to do. Christy Lam-Julian, a mother in Pinole, Calif., reads to her son in April 2025. Tâm V for The Washington Post via Getty Images via The Conversation About 10 years ago, I started making some changes at home to ensure that my children got these skills. Setting aside 15 minutes at night was sometimes the only one-on-one time I had with each kid, with bedtimes of 7:30, 7:45, 8:00 and 8:15 p.m. It was precious to me. I wondered whether using conflicts in bedtime stories as teachable moments would help them develop more empathy for others and boost their creativity. I wrote in 2016 about how I think my children became more empathetic when we paused at times during a book to ask: “How do you think this character feels?” and “What would you do?” But no one had tested this experiment on a broader scale. Testing the idea Beginning in 2017, four colleagues and I recruited 38 families in central Virginia with children ages 6 to 8, which is an age when kids are navigating social relationships and experiencing intense brain development. All of the children in our study were somewhat independent beginning readers or they could read independently. In our study, caregivers read one storybook nightly for two weeks. I chose seven illustrated books: “The Tooth Fairy Wars,” “Library Lion,” “A Letter for Leo,” “Stuck with the Blooz,” “Cub’s Big World,” “Nugget and Fang” and “A New Friend for Marmalade.” There was nothing special about these books except that they all contained some sort of social conflict – and my kids gave them a thumbs-up. They were about, among other characters, a polar bear cub who becomes separated from his mother in the snow, and a boy who hid his teeth from the tooth fairy. Half the families in our study read a book each night straight through without pausing. The other half paused at one conflict point per story to ask two reflection questions. For example, when the tooth fairy stole the tooth Nathan desperately wanted to keep, they asked, “How would you feel if you were Nathan?” If the child answered, parents just listened. If not, they waited 30 seconds before continuing. Before and after two weeks, we tested children’s empathetic ability to understand what others might be thinking and how they are feeling. We also tested creativity using the alternative uses task, which asked kids to generate creative ideas, such as thinking of unusual uses for a paper clip or listing things with wheels. A boost in empathy either way After just 14 bedtimes with books, we found – as our 2026 research shows – that children whose parents paused for questions got better at understanding others’ perspectives. But so did children whose parents just read straight through. We found that what scientists call cognitive and overall empathy improved significantly in both groups between childen’s initial visit and our follow-up visit two weeks after they read the books for a week. This may be because it is easier to quickly develop cognitive empathy – meaning when you put yourself in someone else’s shoes – as compared to developing emotional empathy, or feeling what others feel. Emotional empathy involves different brain regions and likely requires longer to change deeply rooted emotional processing patterns. A creative approach After two weeks of bedtime reading, children in both groups got better at creative thinking. We used a standard creativity test that measures the number and the originality of responses when children were asked to think of uses for everyday objects. For example, if asked about a brick, a common answer would be to build a wall, while a more original response might be to grind it up to make red chalk. But the children whose parents paused for questions generated significantly more ideas overall. Their responses delighted me: They suggested using a paper clip as wire in a potato clock, to help put on a doll’s shoes, or to simply see what sound it makes hitting the floor. We also noticed that the younger kids came up with more original ideas than the older ones. This matches other research showing that creativity may fade as children grow up and they prioritize fitting in with others more than thinking differently. What we still need to learn Our study had limitations: We did not have a comparison group that did not read at all. And most families had a higher income, with 92% of families earning more than $50,000 per year. Future research could address this gap and also investigate whether the benefits we found persist past two weeks – and whether they translate into real-world kindness. But importantly, we found no gender differences in our study. The practice works equally well for boys and girls. And even though the majority of our families said they already read regularly to their children, this practice still worked to boost empathy and creativity. Children who read bedtime stories with their parents are likely to benefit from a boost in creativity – especially if they consider questions about the books. Anastasiia Krivenok/Getty Images via The Conversation Bedtime stories are about more than routine As a neuroscientist, I know the elementary school years are a particularly powerful window when children experience intense formation of new brain connections. These 15 minutes of reading aren’t just about preparing kids to sleep or teaching them to decode words. They’re building neural pathways for understanding others and imagining possibilities. With repeated practice, these connections strengthen, just like practicing piano. In a world designed to pull families toward screens, bedtime reading remains a refuge where parent and child share the same imaginative space. But the pressure’s off for parents: You don’t have to read in any special way. Just read.This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Erin Clabough, University of Virginia Read more:How do children learn to read? This literacy expert says ‘there are as many ways as there are students’AI is making reading books feel obsolete – and students have a lot to loseChildren learn to read with books that are just right for them – but that might not be the best approachErin Clabough is affiliated with Neuro Pty Ltd.
	What is that voice in your head when you read? Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com. What is that voice in your head when you read? – Luiza, age 14, Goiânia, Brazil When you first begin reading, you read out loud. Reading aloud can make the text easier to understand when you’re a beginning reader or when you are reading something that’s challenging. Listening to yourself as you read helps with comprehension. After that, you might “mumble read.” That’s when you mumble, whisper or move your lips as you read. But this practice slowly fades as your reading skills develop, and you start to read silently “in your head.” That’s when your inner voice comes into play. As experts in reading and language, we see this transition from reading out loud to silently all the time. It’s a normal part of the development of reading skills. Usually, kids are good at reading silently by the fourth or fifth grade. The shift from reading out loud to reading silently is very similar to how kids develop thinking and speaking skills. Young children often speak to themselves as a way to think through challenges. Lev Vygotsky, a Russian psychologist, called this “private speech.” And kids aren’t the only ones who talk to themselves. Just watch an adult try to put together a new vacuum cleaner. You might hear them muttering to themselves as they try to understand the assembly instructions. As kids become better thinkers, they shift to talking inside their heads instead of out loud. This is called “inner speech.” Once you’re a good reader, it’s a lot easier to read silently. Reading becomes faster because you don’t have to say each word. And you can jump back to reread parts without disrupting the flow of reading. You can even skip over short familiar words. Silent reading is more flexible, and it allows you to focus on what’s most important. And it’s during silent reading that you may discover your inner voice. Developing an inner voice Hearing an inner voice while reading is relatively common. In fact, one study found that 4 in 5 people say they often or always hear an inner voice when they read silently to themselves. It’s also been suggested that there are many types of inner voices. Your inner voice might be your own: It might sound similar to the way you speak or might be just like your spoken voice. Or it might assume a different tone or timbre altogether. A study of adult readers found that the voice you hear in your head may change depending on what you are reading. For example, if the lines in a book are spoken by a specific character, you may hear that character’s voice in your head. So, fear not if you start hearing a bunch of voices in your head when you dive into a book – it means you’ve already become a skilled silent reader.This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Beth Meisinger, University of Memphis and Roger J. Kreuz, University of Memphis Read more:Why do old people hate new music?The enduring power of print for learning in a digital worldCan Bionic Reading make you a speed reader? Not so fastThe authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	What is that voice in your head when you read? Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com. What is that voice in your head when you read? – Luiza, age 14, Goiânia, Brazil When you first begin reading, you read out loud. Reading aloud can make the text easier to understand when you’re a beginning reader or when you are reading something that’s challenging. Listening to yourself as you read helps with comprehension. After that, you might “mumble read.” That’s when you mumble, whisper or move your lips as you read. But this practice slowly fades as your reading skills develop, and you start to read silently “in your head.” That’s when your inner voice comes into play. As experts in reading and language, we see this transition from reading out loud to silently all the time. It’s a normal part of the development of reading skills. Usually, kids are good at reading silently by the fourth or fifth grade. The shift from reading out loud to reading silently is very similar to how kids develop thinking and speaking skills. Young children often speak to themselves as a way to think through challenges. Lev Vygotsky, a Russian psychologist, called this “private speech.” And kids aren’t the only ones who talk to themselves. Just watch an adult try to put together a new vacuum cleaner. You might hear them muttering to themselves as they try to understand the assembly instructions. As kids become better thinkers, they shift to talking inside their heads instead of out loud. This is called “inner speech.” Once you’re a good reader, it’s a lot easier to read silently. Reading becomes faster because you don’t have to say each word. And you can jump back to reread parts without disrupting the flow of reading. You can even skip over short familiar words. Silent reading is more flexible, and it allows you to focus on what’s most important. And it’s during silent reading that you may discover your inner voice. Developing an inner voice Hearing an inner voice while reading is relatively common. In fact, one study found that 4 in 5 people say they often or always hear an inner voice when they read silently to themselves. It’s also been suggested that there are many types of inner voices. Your inner voice might be your own: It might sound similar to the way you speak or might be just like your spoken voice. Or it might assume a different tone or timbre altogether. A study of adult readers found that the voice you hear in your head may change depending on what you are reading. For example, if the lines in a book are spoken by a specific character, you may hear that character’s voice in your head. So, fear not if you start hearing a bunch of voices in your head when you dive into a book – it means you’ve already become a skilled silent reader.This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Beth Meisinger, University of Memphis and Roger J. Kreuz, University of Memphis Read more:Why do old people hate new music?The enduring power of print for learning in a digital worldCan Bionic Reading make you a speed reader? Not so fastThe authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Consumers should get tariff refunds, but it’s complicated, Sen. Grassley says Senator Chuck Grassley said the Iowans should get tariff refunds, but legal challenges complicate any possible payout.
	Two Rivers YMCA, Moline-East Moline asks City of Moline to invest in proposed expansion The City of Moline is considering plans to invest in improving and expanding the Two Rivers YMCA by waiving some of the builder’s fees.
	Top House Dem wants Justice Department to explain missing Trump-related Epstein files After NPR reporting revealed dozens of pages of Epstein files related to President Trump appear to be missing from the public record, a top House Democrat wants to know why.
	Davenport elementary PTA fundraiser draws national support Professional sports teams, presidential libraries, international museums, roller derby teams and more responded to help Iowa students they'd never heard of or met.
	ICE won't be at polling places this year, a Trump DHS official promises In a call with top state voting officials, a Department of Homeland Security official stated unequivocally that immigration agents would not be patrolling polling places during this year's midterms.
	Iowa House passes tuition freeze bill Iowa House lawmakers passed a bill freezing tuition for five years at public universities.
	Cuba says it killed 4 people aboard Florida-registered speedboat that opened fire on soldiers in local waters Cuba says it killed 4 people aboard Florida-registered speedboat that opened fire on soldiers in local waters.
	About 3 acres of woodland burned during field fire The Walnut Fire Department responded to a three-acre fire about 2:45 p.m. in the Green River Wildlife Preserve, according to a news release.
	Meet Rock Island Co. Sheriff candidate: Jamie Shoemaker Four people are running--three Democrats and one Republican.
	Aledo ends contract with LRS, announces new waste collection company The city received more than 600 complaints about Lakeshore Recycling Systems. As a result, the city council voted to terminate the contract and find a new company.
	Coroner identifies man killed in house fire Knox County Coroner Jacque Dare has identified the man killed in a house fire Saturday.
	How mortgage rates compare through the decades How mortgage rates compare through the decadesMortgage rates are one of the most influential drivers of the U.S. housing market dynamic, but they are often misunderstood. And, for generations of homebuyers, the interest rate attached to a mortgage loan has dramatically shaped affordability, savings, and the trajectory of wealth building through homeownership.Today, however, buyers face mortgage rates that are far above the record lows seen during recent decades. To understand what the highs and lows truly mean, as well as to appreciate how historical conditions affect changing prices and incomes, it’s crucial to examine how mortgage rates have trended over time. Splitero has compiled mortgage rate insights from Freddie Mac, U.S. Federal Housing data, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Federal Reserve Economic data to examine how mortgage rates have changed and break down what it means for buyers across generations.How mortgage rates have shifted through the decadesAs economic conditions have changed over the decades, 30-year mortgage rates have fluctuated with them. The following data, compiled from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and collected from 1970 to 2025, demonstrates the differences over the years. Splitero Understanding these historical shifts helps explain why today's rate environment and homeowners' equity positions look the way they do.Starting in the 1970s, rising inflation and tighter monetary policy caused rates to climb rapidly from the mid-7% range. By 1979, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate exceeded 11%.Rates reached their highest levels ever in the early 1980s, when the Federal Reserve aggressively raised rates to tame inflation. With averages peaking around 16% in 1981, the borrowing environment was one that even modern buyers can scarcely imagine.From that peak, rates began a long, gradual decline. By the 1990s, strong economic growth and easing inflation brought averages into the 7-10% range. While this was still high by today’s standards, it was a significant improvement for borrowers at the time.The 2000s saw rates hover in the mid-5% to low-7% range, though loose lending practices like subprime and adjustable-rate mortgages masked underlying risks. After the financial crisis of 2008, the Fed’s response pushed rates even lower.The 2010s and early 2020s brought historically low rates, often lingering between 3%-5%, and dipping below 3% in 2020 and 2021. This fueled a housing frenzy around the time of the pandemic and helped homeowners build the record equity levels we see today.In response to this increased demand, the Federal Reserve tightened in 2022 and 2023, pushing mortgage rates back above 7%. By late 2025, averages have settled into the mid-6% range, marking the lowest levels in several years and a window that may encourage homeowners to tap their equity.Adjusting for inflation and home prices: Who really had it harder?Just comparing mortgage rates at face value doesn’t tell the whole story. Real affordability also depends on how rates interact with home prices and incomes. To illustrate, we consider the cost of buying a home as a percentage of income over the years. Splitero In January 1984, the median home sale price was $79,950, and the average 30-year mortgage rate was 13.9%. With a 20% down payment, a buyer's monthly mortgage payment would have been approximately $753, about 15% of the median household income at the time.Fast forward to 2024: the median home price has risen to approximately $419,000, while rates have dropped to 6.7%. That sounds like progress, until you calculate the monthly payment. With a 20% down payment, today's buyer would pay roughly $2,163 per month, or about 31% of median household income.In other words, despite rates being cut nearly in half, today's buyers face a larger monthly burden relative to their earnings. The culprit isn't rates alone, it's the combination of home prices rising faster than wages over four decades.Generational Impact: Boomers vs. Gen X vs. Millennials and Gen ZEach generation has entered the housing market under a unique set of conditions. These are the key trends.Baby boomers: Boomers benefited from declining rates through the 1980s and 1990s alongside comparatively affordable home prices, allowing significant wealth accumulation through home equity. Today, 74% own their homes, the highest rate of any generation.Generation X: Gen X saw moderate rates during the late 1990s and 2000s, but Gen X homeowners in their 30s and 40s were potentially hit hard by foreclosures when the housing bubble burst. However, Gen X homeownership rates have since rebounded from roughly 50% in 2005 to 65% in 2024, after remaining relatively stagnant from 2005 to 2015.Millennials: Despite entering adulthood during a low-rate era (before the 2008 crash to the mid 2010s), Millennials faced skyrocketing home prices and tighter lending conditions. Their homeownership rate at ages 25-34 was approximately 8% lower than Boomers and Gen Xers at the same age.Gen Z: Gen Z faces elevated rates and near-record home prices, leading many to delay purchasing. A 2025 survey found that 97% report facing barriers to homeownership, with high prices cited as the top obstacle.What today’s buyers can learn from historyMortgage rates have swung dramatically over the past five decades, from the double-digit peaks of the early 1980s to the sub-3% lows of the pandemic era. However, the story of housing affordability isn’t just about the interest rates on paper. As the data shows, today's buyers dedicate a larger share of their income to mortgage payments than buyers in 1984, despite rates being half of what they were then. And generational trends reveal that younger buyers face compounding barriers their parents didn't.Rates may feel high compared to recent years, but they sit at levels that were relatively normal or even favorable for much of the last half-century. The real barrier today isn't the rate itself, but what buyers are financing: home prices that have far outpaced wage growth.This story was produced by Splitero and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How AI is transforming maintenance operations and manufacturing How AI is transforming maintenance operations and manufacturingPredictability is one of the most valuable resources for industrial companies. It’s also one of the hardest to find right now.Global trade is unstable. Supply chains remain unreliable. Consumer demand shifts daily. In this environment, many manufacturers are looking inward and doubling down on operational efficiency to protect margins. However, asset failure and labor shortages are stacking the odds against them. Unplanned equipment downtime costs the average Fortune 500 company $2.8 billion every year.Meanwhile, 40% of the manufacturing workforce is expected to retire by 2030, taking decades of institutional knowledge with them. To make matters worse, the average piece of equipment is now older than it has been in nearly 70 years.This is the backdrop that makes adopting AI such a powerful opportunity. Because it can complete formerly manual processes in a fraction of the time and serve up information in an instant, AI has the ability to help manufacturing companies survive all of these approaching threats. This is why analysts estimate AI could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy in the coming years.For industrial leaders, that means AI isn’t a buzzword—it’s the next competitive edge.But there’s a problem. Despite the hype, 75% of AI initiatives fail to deliver ROI, and 42% are abandoned entirely.That’s because most organizations struggle to bridge the gap between ambition and execution. The companies that figure it out will lead the next decade of industrial efficiency. This guide from MaintainX shows you how by breaking AI in maintenance into seven proven plays any team can start using today. The Maintenance Leader’s AI PlaybookIt can be difficult to know where to start with AI. MaintainX asked 54 maintenance teams how they are using AI, then distilled their answers into seven plays that you can adopt to fix problems faster, make smarter decisions, and reduce downtime.1. Real-time repair assistance with AIEvery minute counts when a piece of equipment breaks. Traditionally, technicians flip through manuals, hunt down supervisors, or rely on memory. That’s the kind of time you don’t have during an outage.AI changes this by acting as a digital repair assistant. These assistants allow technicians to ask plain-language questions about an asset, like, “How do I replace the hydraulic pump seal on this press?” and get instant answers drawn from manuals, SOPs, and past work orders.The result: Faster troubleshootingReduced mean time to repair (MTTR)Higher first-time fix ratesThis doesn’t replace technician expertise—it amplifies it. Instead of searching, your teams spend more time fixing.2. Analyze maintenance data and metrics with AIMost maintenance teams are sitting on years (if not decades) of unused data from work orders, downtime logs, reports, and other sources. It’s all valuable, but hard to analyze without spending hours every week on it.AI changes all this. It makes it easy to spot trends, anomalies, and performance gaps in your data. You can quickly generate reports on anything from downtime to maintenance costs, then translate those insights into briefs for anyone you want, whether it’s your technicians or your executive team.For example, you can ask AI:“Which assets caused the most downtime this quarter?”“Which site has the best PM compliance, and what are they doing differently?”“Where can we cut costs without hurting reliability?”AI can scan the data you input, have an answer in seconds, help you build stronger business cases, refine PM schedules, and identify best practices worth scaling.3. Generate maintenance procedures with AIHaving complete and up-to-date procedures for every asset is nearly impossible for most maintenance teams. This is especially true if you have hundreds of assets and thousands of SOPs, some of which live only in a technician’s head. AI can help solve this problem by generating and standardizing maintenance procedures at scale. By feeding in manuals, photos, and a short description of a task, AI can create step-by-step procedures with safety checks, PPE requirements, a bill of materials, estimated completion times, sign-offs, and more.That means:Faster digitization of decades-old knowledgeConsistency across teams and shiftsEasier onboarding for new technicians Instead of spending weeks writing SOPs, leaders can create a complete, standardized set of procedures in hours. 4. AI-driven anomaly detection and fault predictionPreventive maintenance is valuable, but it’s not always precise. Some assets get maintained too often while others don’t get maintained enough, leading to more failures, higher costs, and a maxed-out team. The answer is condition-based and predictive maintenance, but those strategies often take years to implement. AI can help accelerate this timeline with anomaly detection. By analyzing sensor data, meter readings, and historical work orders, AI learns what normal looks like for each asset. When performance deviates—say, vibration spikes above its usual range—AI flags it before failure occurs.Benefits include:Early warning signs of equipment failureSmarter scheduling (fewer unnecessary PMs)Reduced downtime and maintenance costsThis is the foundation of predictive maintenance—shifting from calendar-based schedules to condition-based insights.5. Capturing institutional knowledge with AIEvery maintenance team has technicians who know the quirks of every asset. They can hear a motor and know something’s off. But with retirement rates accelerating, this knowledge is disappearing fast.AI provides a solution by capturing and structuring tribal knowledge. Meeting notes, work order comments, and RCA reports can be summarized into training guides, onboarding materials, or updated procedures. This helps you: Preserve decades of expertiseTrain new technicians fasterIdentify recurring problems and workaroundsInstead of knowledge walking out the door, AI makes it part of your permanent playbook.6. Root cause analysis with AIFinding the true cause of asset failure can take hours or weeks. AI accelerates this process by analyzing work history, sensor data, technician notes, and past RCAs. It can provide analyses through frameworks like the 5 Whys or fishbone diagrams.More importantly, it can recommend corrective actions prioritized by impact and feasibility.Benefits: Fewer repeat failuresFaster recovery from downtimeContinuous process improvementWith AI, RCA becomes faster, more consistent, and easier to communicate across the organization.7. Parts forecasting with AIFew things frustrate maintenance leaders more than stockouts. When the right part isn’t available, you’re stuck with emergency orders, expensive shipping, or improvised fixes.AI helps teams forecast spare parts demand by analyzing PM schedules, corrective work orders, and inventory levels.It flags which parts are at risk of stockout, suggests reorder quantities, and accounts for lead times. The payoff: Lower inventory costsFewer stockouts and delaysHigher PM complianceIn short, AI ensures your team always has the right part, for the right work, at the right time.Business benefits of AI in maintenanceTaken together, these seven plays deliver measurable outcomes across safety, cost, and productivity: Reduced downtime and costs – AI identifies risks earlier, improves troubleshooting speed, and ensures parts availability.Improved safety and compliance – AI-generated procedures and real-time assistance reinforce lockout/tagout, PPE, and other critical protocols.Increased workforce productivity – Technicians spend less time searching for information and more time completing repairs.Captured knowledge – Senior expertise is preserved in digital form, accelerating training and onboarding.A shift toward predictive maintenance – Teams move from reactive firefighting to proactive prevention, improving overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). The bottom line: AI doesn’t just modernize maintenance, it also makes it a driver of competitive advantage. How to Get Started with AI in MaintenanceYou don’t need to do a massive digital transformation project to see results with AI. The maintenance teams that are already seeing value from AI today have done these four things that you can do in a few days or weeks. Step 1: Start small, scale fastPick one play, like repair assistance or data analysis, and run a pilot. Focus on a high-impact area with clear metrics like MTTR or downtime. Step 2: Prepare your dataAI is only as good as the data you feed it. Collect digital manuals, SOPs, past work orders, and technician notes. Standardize naming conventions and use structured fields to make information machine-readable. Step 3: Choose the fight toolsLook for AI solutions that integrate directly into maintenance workflows. Tools should be built to work with your team’s existing procedures, assets, and work orders—no complex integrations required. Step 4: Measure ROI and impactTrack improvements in downtime, PM compliance, safety incidents, and first-time fix rates. Use these results to build a case for expanding AI across additional plays.AI in Maintenance FAQsWhat is AI in maintenance?AI in maintenance uses machine learning, natural language processing, and automation to support core tasks like troubleshooting, data analysis, procedure generation, anomaly detection, and inventory forecasting.How is AI used in predictive maintenance?By analyzing sensor readings, work order histories, and failure patterns, AI detects early signs of equipment degradation and recommends interventions before failure occurs.Can AI replace technicians?No. AI augments technicians by providing faster insights, standardizing documentation, and reducing repetitive work. Skilled workers remain essential for execution and decision-making.What data do I need to get started?At minimum: equipment manuals, SOPs, past work orders, and technician notes. Structured, digital data produces the best results.What industries benefit most from AI in maintenance?Manufacturing, energy, utilities, and healthcare are leading adopters. But any asset-intensive industry—from aviation to food processing—can benefit.This story was produced by MaintainX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad Cities mayors lay out priorities, big projects; Iowa side concerned about tax cap Quad-Cities mayors are focused on site-readiness, infrastructure projects, and on the Iowa side, property tax reform at the state level, mayors said during a Wednesday morning breakfast
	Moline hosting Comprehensive Plan open house The City of Moline will launch its Comprehensive Plan update with a community kickoff open house on Wednesday, March 4 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Mercado on Fifth, 423 12th Street. The initiative is the first full update to Moline’s Comprehensive Plan since 2001. The updated plan will establish priorities to guide housing, transportation, parks, economic [...]
	Tipped workers expect tax boon this year, but not a long-term fix In his State of the Union address on Tuesday night, President Trump once again touted new tax benefits for tipped workers, who like many Americans are feeling the pinch of higher prices.
	How to optimize your e-commerce order management system How to optimize your e-commerce order management systemAs e-commerce operations grow, order management becomes less about shipping labels and more about decision-making. What once worked for a handful of daily orders quickly breaks down when volume increases, channels multiply, and fulfillment locations expand. Orders arrive from multiple storefronts, inventory changes constantly, and e-commerce fulfillment decisions must be made quickly. Without the right systems in place, teams struggle to keep up and execute strategically.This is where a well-designed order management system for e-commerce becomes essential. Your software should do more than collect orders. It should automatically route them, keep data in sync across systems, and support fulfillment from multiple locations without sacrificing visibility or control. The result isn’t just faster shipping, but a calmer, more predictable operation.To get the most value from an order management system, ShipStation says businesses should focus on three core capabilities: automated routing, order syncing, and multichannel fulfillment. Together, these form the backbone of a scalable e-commerce operation.Why order management breaks down as businesses scaleMost fulfillment problems don’t start at the shipping label. They begin earlier, when decisions are made about how an order should be handled. Someone must decide where the order ships from, which carrier and service level to use, and how to provide tracking information to the customer. When teams make these decisions manually, the system slows down.As volume increases, manual decisions create friction. Teams spend more time reviewing orders than shipping them. Errors become more common, especially under pressure. Customers feel the impact through late deliveries, incorrect tracking updates, and canceled orders. Over time, even small operational inefficiencies compound into missed service level agreements and higher support costs.An optimized e-commerce order management system removes guesswork by turning common decisions into predefined logic. Instead of asking a person to decide what to do, the system applies rules automatically. That shift—from manual judgment to automated consistency—is what enables sustainable growth.Automated routing: Turning best practices into default behaviorAutomated routing is more than simply assigning a warehouse. Routing includes every operational decision that determines how an order moves through fulfillment. That can include selecting a ship-from location, choosing a carrier and service, applying holds for fraud or address issues, adding insurance or signature requirements, and preparing the order for batching or picking workflows.Platforms achieve this through automation rules that trigger actions when orders meet specific criteria. Define your rules once, then let the system enforce them every time an order enters the workflow.The most effective routing rules are not complicated. They are based on patterns that occur frequently. For example, destination-based routing can reduce costs by matching zones to the most efficient services. Service-level routing ensures that expedited orders always receive the correct delivery method. SKU-based rules help handle special items, such as oversized or regulated products, without manual checks. Value-based logic protects high-value shipments with added confirmation or insurance.What matters most is timing. Automation should run as early as possible, ideally the moment an order is imported into the order management software or enters a shippable status. Early automation prevents rework and reduces the chance that someone overrides a decision before the system applies the rule.Well-designed routing also follows a clear structure. Broad conditions, such as fraud or payment holds, come first. Location assignment follows. Service selection comes next. Finally, exceptions and enhancements are layered in. This order keeps the routing logic understandable and easier to maintain over time. When something goes wrong, teams can trace the decision path rather than guess.Order syncing and centralized order processing keep systems alignedRouting only works when the underlying data is accurate. That makes order syncing just as important as automation. Syncing is not limited to importing orders from sales channels. It includes maintaining consistent order statuses, pushing tracking information back to online marketplaces, and ensuring inventory levels reflect reality.Inventory syncing deserves special attention. Overselling can cost you both money and reputation. Canceled orders lead to refunds, frustrated customers, and in some cases, marketplace penalties. Inventory must have a single source of truth, and updates must occur frequently enough to keep pace with sales velocity.As systems mature, event-driven syncing becomes more valuable. Instead of repeatedly checking for updates, systems can respond instantly to changes via webhooks that notify external systems of key events. This allows customer support tools, enterprise resource planning systems, or analytics platforms to stay up to date without delay. While not every business needs this level of integration, it becomes increasingly important as order volume and system complexity grow.Healthy syncing relies on discipline as much as technology. Order IDs must be consistent across systems. Status definitions should be standardized and understood by everyone involved. Teams should agree on where edits happen and how changes propagate. Regular reviews of canceled or exception orders often reveal sync gaps before they become systemic problems.Fulfillment for multichannel orders: expanding options without losing controlMultichannel fulfillment adds flexibility but also complexity. Orders may ship from warehouses, retail stores, drop-ship vendors, third-party logistics providers (3PLs), or other multichannel fulfillment solutions programs. The challenge is delivering a consistent experience regardless of where fulfillment happens.When working with 3PLs, fragmentation is the biggest risk. If orders leave the system and are lost in another system, visibility suffers. Tools that treat 3PLs as extensions of e-commerce order processing help avoid this by maintaining shared status updates and standardized processes.Amazon’s Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF) system presents a similar challenge. Many brands want to leverage Amazon’s fulfillment network while continuing to sell on their own sites or other marketplaces. This only works when the order management system can manage the handoff cleanly and unify tracking and status updates across channels. Systems that support selective routing—sending only certain orders or SKUs to MCF—offer more control and reduce risk.As e-commerce fulfillment strategies diversify, the breadth of integration becomes increasingly important. While the exact number matters less than the outcome, the underlying lesson is clear: Multichannel fulfillment succeeds when systems are designed to connect, not silo.A practical approach to optimizing order management systemsImproving e-commerce order management doesn’t require a full rebuild. In most cases, incremental changes deliver meaningful results. The first step is understanding the current flow. Mapping how orders move from purchase to delivery often reveals where manual decisions and delays occur. These points become candidates for automation.Next, implement a small, focused set of routing rules. Starting with location assignment and service selection often removes the most friction. From there, syncing fundamentals should be validated. Order imports, tracking updates, and inventory accuracy must work reliably before additional complexity is added.Multichannel fulfillment should be introduced gradually. Piloting one fulfillment path at a time allows teams to measure performance and exception rates before expanding. Metrics such as order-to-label time, cancellation rate, and support contacts per order help quantify improvements and highlight remaining gaps.The bigger picture: Fewer touches, fewer surprises with retail order management systemsAn optimized order management system isn’t about speed alone. The best e-commerce order management software drives predictability. Automated routing reduces decision fatigue and errors. Order syncing keeps teams aligned and customers informed. Multichannel fulfillment adds resilience without sacrificing control.That is the real goal of order management optimization—not just shipping more orders, but shipping them with confidence, consistency, and room to grow.This story was produced by ShipStation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	6 simple accessibility fixes that help small and medium-sized businesses reach more customers 6 simple accessibility fixes that help small and medium-sized businesses reach more customersAccessibility problems rarely announce themselves. They show up quietly, in the form of a customer who can’t complete a purchase, a reader who abandons a page, or a form that never gets submitted. For small and medium-sized businesses, these moments often go unnoticed, even though they happen every day.According to AudioEye’s 2025 Digital Accessibility Index (DAI), the average webpage contains nearly 300 accessibility issues. Many of those issues appear on small and medium-sized business websites just as often as they do on enterprise platforms.The encouraging part is that the most common accessibility problems are also the most fixable. They don’t require a full redesign or deep technical expertise. In many cases, they require attention to basics that can be addressed quickly and incrementally.Here are six easy accessibility fixes that small and medium-sized businesses can start working on immediately, with real impact.1. Write Alt Text That Actually Explains What an Image Is DoingImages that communicate information or prompt action need text alternatives. Product photos, promotional banners, icons used as buttons, and graphics that explain data should all include alt text that describes what the image shows and why it matters.Across the web, missing or ineffective alt text remains one of the most common accessibility issues flagged. When alt text is absent or vague, people who use screen readers lose access to information that others receive instantly.A good starting point is to review high-traffic pages and focus on images that influence understanding or decision-making. If an image affects what a user does next, its description should clearly convey that purpose.2. Make Text Easier to Read by Improving Color ContrastText should stand out clearly from its background. When contrast is too low, content becomes difficult to read for people with low vision, colorblindness, or anyone viewing a screen under challenging conditions.Color contrast issues show up frequently on business websites, especially when branding favors lighter tones or subtle color combinations. While these choices may look clean, they often reduce readability and make important content harder to absorb.Simple contrast-checking tools, including free options available online, can help teams quickly assess whether text and background combinations meet accessibility standards and identify small adjustments that improve legibility without changing the overall design.3. Make Your Site Usable Without a MouseSome people with disabilities navigate the web without a mouse, relying instead on keyboards or assistive technologies. When a site is built primarily for mouse or touch interaction, those users can quickly hit dead ends.One way to surface issues is to navigate your site using only the tab key. Links, menus, buttons, and form fields should be reachable in a logical order, with a visible indicator showing where you are on the page. If focus disappears or skips key elements, those areas need attention.Improving keyboard usability helps remove barriers for users with disabilities and makes sites easier to navigate for anyone using shortcuts or alternative input methods.4. Replace Generic Link Text With Clear ActionsLink and button text should tell users what will happen next. Phrases like “Click here” or “Learn more” offer little meaning when read out of context, which is how many screen reader users navigate pages.Clear, specific language helps users understand where a link leads and what action it triggers. Updating links to reference pricing, downloads, contact requests, or next steps improves accessibility while making content easier to scan.When users understand their options quickly, they are more likely to engage and move forward.5. Fix Forms So People Can Actually Complete ThemForms are among the most common barriers to accessibility and user engagement. AudioEye’s DAI found that more than one-third of pages scanned failed to provide clear labels or instructions for form fields.These issues commonly affect contact forms, checkout flows, and appointment requests. When users cannot reliably complete a form, the interaction often ends there.Review key forms to ensure every input has a visible label, requirements are clearly explained, and error messages describe what went wrong and how to fix it. These changes help ensure users can complete the actions you want them to take.6. Publish an Accessibility Statement and Invite FeedbackAn accessibility statement signals that a business takes digital accessibility seriously and is committed to continuous improvement. It does not need to be long or written in legal language.A simple statement can explain your approach to accessibility and provide users with a straightforward way to report barriers. This feedback often reveals real-world issues that automated scans miss, particularly those related to usability and interaction.For small and medium-sized businesses, an accessibility statement creates transparency and trust. It also gives teams a practical way to learn where users are struggling and what should be prioritized next.Why These Fixes Matter NowAccessibility is not just a usability issue. It is increasingly a legal and reputational one.AudioEye’s 2026 Web Accessibility Litigation Report shows that digital accessibility lawsuits continue to be filed in large numbers, with retail, e-commerce, hospitality, and food services among the most frequently targeted industries. Many of these claims involve small- and mid-sized businesses and focus on basic issues such as images, navigation, and forms.At the same time, accessibility improvements benefit a far broader audience than people with permanent disabilities. Clear navigation, readable text, and usable forms improve experiences for aging users, mobile users, and anyone navigating a site quickly or under pressure.For teams looking to build confidence, free educational resources can help explain foundational concepts without requiring technical expertise or budget approval.Progress Beats PerfectionAccessibility does not require everything to be fixed at once. For small and medium-sized businesses, progress matters more than polish.Fixing common issues, testing real interactions, clarifying language, and learning the basics can significantly improve how people experience your site. These changes reduce friction, build trust, and help more customers complete the actions that matter most.Accessibility is not reserved for big brands with big budgets. It is a practical way for growing businesses to serve more people and create digital experiences that work better for everyone.This story was produced by AudioEye and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Surgeon general nominee Means questioned about vaccines, birth control and financial conflicts During a confirmation hearing, senators asked Dr. Casey Means about her current positions and her past statements on a range of public health issues.
	Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2026 shortlist includes Lauryn Hill, Shakira and Wu-Tang Clan The shortlist also includes a 1990s pop diva, heavy metal pioneers and a legendary R&B singer and producer.
	How to identify the simplest CRM solution for your industry How to identify the simplest CRM solution for your industryCustomer relationship management (CRM) software has become essential for businesses of all sizes. Yet many teams hesitate to adopt CRM systems, citing one primary concern: Complexity. The irony is striking—tools designed to simplify customer interactions often overwhelm users with features they’ll never use, clunky interfaces, and lengthy implementation timelines.Today, a growing category of simple CRM software exists specifically for teams that need essential functionality without the burden of enterprise-level complexity. But here’s the critical insight: The simplest CRM solution for a real estate brokerage may look fundamentally different from the simplest CRM for a B2B consulting firm or a financial services practice.The Nutshell team has compiled this guide, which explores how to identify the simplest CRM solution for your specific industry and business model. Rather than chasing feature lists, this approach focuses on matching core capabilities to your actual operational needs—ensuring fast adoption, genuine user engagement, and measurable business impact.Key takeawaysIndustry-specific needs shape CRM simplicity: The simplest CRM for a real estate team (visual pipeline and mobile access) may differ fundamentally from a financial services firm (compliance and audit trails) or a startup (affordability and fast setup) CRM. Match your choice to your actual workflows.Simplicity means focus, not incompleteness: A simple CRM contains everything your team needs from day one and nothing more. Test with real users performing actual tasks before committing—If your team needs constant guidance, it’s not truly simple.Use the 6-step framework to evaluate systematically: Define non-negotiables → identify what you don’t need → test UX with real users → verify mobile functionality → confirm pricing transparency → evaluate support. This structured approach beats comparing vendor feature lists.What makes a CRM simple, user-friendly, and effective?Before diving into industry-specific requirements, it’s important to define what “simple” actually means in the context of CRM software. A simple CRM isn’t necessarily stripped down or lacking capability. Instead, it’s designed around a principle: Surface only what users need to do their jobs, and make those tools intuitive enough that minimal training is required.Research from CRM vendors and business technology analysts consistently identifies core features that define a simple, easy-to-use CRM:Essential simple CRM capabilities: These include contact management and organization, sales pipeline or opportunity tracking, task reminders and follow-up scheduling, mobile accessibility, email integration, basic reporting and visibility, and a clean, uncluttered interface. Additionally, security features like two-factor authentication and data encryption should be standard, even in simple solutions.What simple CRMs do NOT include: They avoid enterprise-level features designed only for large organizations, such as complex automation requiring technical expertise, advanced forecasting dashboards built for 50-plus person sales teams, endless customization options that demand specialist help, and lengthy setup and configuration processes that delay time-to-value.The distinction matters because many teams mistakenly equate “simple” with “incomplete.” In reality, a simple CRM contains everything your team needs and nothing it doesn’t. This focused approach directly translates to adoption rates. Teams embrace tools that make sense immediately, rather than systems requiring weeks of training.The average entry-level plan for a simple CRM solution typically falls within the $10 to $20 per user per month price range. This price point correlates with tools that prioritize core functionality over premium add-ons—a financial indicator that a CRM is genuinely designed for accessibility rather than feature overload.Why industry-specific needs shape your CRM choiceOne of the most common mistakes in CRM selection is the assumption that the best solution for one business type will serve another equally well. This assumption fails because different industries operate under fundamentally different constraints and priorities.Consider the variables that differ across industries:Sales cycle length varies dramatically. A real estate transaction might take 60 to 90 days from initial showing to closing, involving multiple stakeholders and negotiations. A B2C retail transaction might be completed in minutes. A B2B enterprise software sale could span six to twelve months. Each cycle demands different tracking mechanisms.Transaction size and frequency shape the team’s needs. High-volume, low-value transactions require different pipeline management than low-volume, high-value deals. A team handling 100 small transactions monthly has different organizational needs than a team closing five annual contracts worth millions.Regulatory and compliance requirements exist for some industries but not others. Financial services, healthcare, and government contracting all impose documentation and audit trail requirements that a casual services business may never encounter.Team structure and roles vary. A solopreneur needs different functionality than a 10-person sales team. A distributed remote team needs different mobile and communication features than a co-located office.Customer relationship depth differs. Some businesses maintain transactional relationships. Others build long-term partnerships requiring extensive history and context tracking.These variables explain why the simplest CRM for one business might be completely misaligned for another. Granted, top-tier, universally simple CRM solutions do exist, but the goal is to find the simplest CRM that addresses your specific industry requirements.Identifying your industry’s core CRM requirementsThe following breakdown examines how different industry categories typically approach CRM needs. Use this as a reference point for your own business, not as a definitive requirement list. Nutshell Sales-driven teamsSales-driven industries (including real estate, insurance, direct sales, and B2B sales) depend on pipeline visibility and rapid follow-up. For these teams, the simplest CRM must include visual deal pipeline management—typically a drag-and-drop interface showing deals moving through stages.Mobile field access is nonnegotiable, as salespeople frequently update information from client sites, showings, or meetings. Email and SMS communication tools should be integrated, not bolt-on additions, to minimize app-switching.Why these requirements matter: Sales effectiveness depends on consistent follow-up. Teams without mobile access miss updates. Teams without integrated communication waste time toggling between tools. Visual pipelines provide immediate clarity on deal status without requiring dashboard interpretation.For instance, real estate professionals benefit from stage-based pipelines customized to their workflow, for example:Stage 1: Qualified leads.Stage 2:Showings scheduled.Stage 3: Property viewed.Stage 4: Offer negotiated.Stage 5: Contract signed.Stage 6: Closed.This specificity matters because a generic sales pipeline doesn’t reflect how real estate actually operates.Service-based businessesService businesses (including consulting, freelancing, agencies, and professional services) often need CRM capabilities that blur into project management. The simplest CRM for these teams tracks client relationships alongside project status, deliverables, and timelines.Task management should be robust, as service delivery depends on internal workflow visibility. Client history and communication logs need to be easily accessible, as service quality depends on understanding prior work and client preferences.Why these requirements matter: Service businesses succeed through relationship continuity. New team members must quickly access historical context. Projects often involve multiple team members, requiring shared visibility. Unlike transactional sales, service delivery is relationship-intensive and timeline-dependent.Financial servicesFinancial services firms (including financial advisors, insurance brokers, and wealth managers) operate under unique constraints. The simplest CRM for these teams must include robust security and compliance features—audit trails, data encryption, and user permission controls are essential, not optional.Relationship tracking should support documenting the depth and breadth of client relationships. Document management capabilities matter, as regulatory compliance often requires maintaining detailed records of client interactions and decisions.Why these requirements matter: Financial services operate under regulatory oversight. Audit trails aren’t luxuries—they’re legal requirements. Long-term client relationships are core to the business model, meaning historical context must be preserved and accessible. Simple doesn’t mean unsecured—it means security is built in by default.B2C businessesB2C companies (including retail, e-commerce, and consumer services) typically manage larger customer bases with shorter interaction cycles. The simplest CRM for these teams prioritizes customer segmentation and basic marketing campaign capabilities.Quick transaction tracking helps identify high-value repeat customers. Contact organization should support bulk operations, as B2C teams often work with hundreds or thousands of customers rather than dozens.Why these requirements matter: B2C businesses succeed through customer segmentation and targeted engagement. Scale matters—tools built for 50 customers are unlikely to serve 5,000. Transaction frequency tracking helps identify loyalty and churn patterns without complex analytics.Startups and solo operatorsFor early-stage businesses and solo operators, the simplest CRM prioritizes three things: affordability, minimal setup time, and no IT requirements. These teams cannot justify $50-plus per user per month or dedicate resources to system configuration. The ideal simple CRM can be operational within hours, not weeks, and requires no technical expertise to maintain.Why these requirements matter: Startups often operate with constrained budgets and limited staff. Time spent configuring systems is time not spent selling or serving customers. The opportunity cost of lengthy implementations is prohibitive. Additionally, many solopreneurs and small team founders have no IT background, so systems requiring technical knowledge create adoption barriers.A practical framework for selecting the simplest CRM for your businessRather than comparing feature lists or vendor claims, use this framework to systematically identify the simplest CRM aligned to your needs. Nutshell Step 1: Define nonnegotiables for your industryBased on the industry breakdown above, identify 3-5 features that are genuinely essential for how your business operates. Not features you might eventually use—features you need from day one.A real estate agent’s nonnegotiable might be mobile pipeline management. A consultant’s nonnegotiable might be client history and task management. A financial advisor’s nonnegotiable might be audit trails and security compliance.Write these down. This list becomes your evaluation baseline.Step 2: Identify what you don’t needThis step is equally as important as identifying what you do need. Questions to ask include:Do you need advanced forecasting? Probably not if you’re a five-person team.Do you need complex workflow automation? Only if your processes are genuinely complex.Do you need multi-currency support? Only if you sell internationally.Be ruthlessly honest about what you don’t need.Step 3: Test the user experienceRequest free trials from two to three vendors that claim to meet your requirements. But don’t test alone—bring two to three actual users from your team into the trial.Have them attempt core workflows without reading documentation: Can they create a contact, add a deal, set a follow-up task, and check their mobile app—all without asking for help? If not, it’s not as simple as claimed.Note: The simplest CRM is the one your team will intuitively understand. If users need constant guidance, it’s not simple.Step 4: Verify mobile functionalityIn 2026, mobile access is essential for most teams. Test the mobile experience thoroughly.Is the app responsive?Can users perform core actions (updating deals, logging calls, viewing contact history) on mobile as easily as on desktop?Poor mobile experiences drive adoption failure faster than any other factor.Step 5: Confirm pricing transparencyPricing should be straightforward.Does the vendor quote per-user-per-month with no surprises?Are there hidden fees for integrations, storage, or specific features?Are there setup or implementation charges?Simple CRMs typically avoid surprise costs—that’s part of being simple.Step 6: Evaluate customer supportNon-technical teams need accessible CRM support.Can you reach a human via email or chat if something breaks?Does the vendor provide training resources?Does the knowledge base help self-serve users?For simple CRMs, good customer support often matters more than comprehensive features—it’s what helps teams adopt quickly.Mistakes teams make when choosing a simple CRMUnderstanding what goes wrong in CRM selection helps you avoid common pitfalls.Mistake 1: Confusing simple with incompleteSome teams, attracted by the word “simple,” select CRMs that lack essential capabilities for their industry. A real estate agent picking a basic contact management tool without pipeline management is buying simplicity at the cost of functionality. Simple means focused, not insufficient. Ensure the simple CRM you choose contains every core feature your industry requires.Mistake 2: Ignoring industry-specific requirementsTeams often evaluate CRMs based on generic capabilities without considering industry-specific workflows. A B2B sales team purchasing a B2C-focused CRM may find the tool misses critical features for complex, multi-stakeholder sales processes. Conversely, a small consulting firm doesn’t need the compliance features built for financial services. Align simplicity to your specific industry reality.Mistake 3: Skipping the trial or testing with real usersCRM demos are polished and guided by experts. Real usage by non-expert users reveals whether simplicity is genuine or illusory. A CRM that looks simple during a vendor demo might confuse your actual team. Always test with representative users performing real tasks before committing.Mistake 4: Overlooking mobile capabilitiesTeams evaluating CRMs on desktop often discover the mobile experience is an afterthought. In 2026, mobile functionality isn’t optional—it’s essential. If your team works in the field, meets with clients, or works remotely, thoroughly test the mobile app.Nearly 81% of CRM users access their system from multiple devices, ensuring convenience and seamless workflow. A CRM that’s simple on desktop but clunky on mobile will fail in actual use.Mistake 5: Choosing based on price aloneThe cheapest CRM isn’t always the simplest or best fit. For example, a $5-per-user tool that requires 40 hours of setup costs more in team time than a $15-per-user tool that’s operational in four hours. Evaluate the total cost of ownership—including setup time, training time, and staff adoption friction—not just monthly fees.Actionable advice: Spend at least two to three hours testing with your actual team before committing. This investment pays for itself many times over by preventing adoption failures.Frequently asked questions1. What’s the difference between a “simple” CRM and a “free” CRM?A simple CRM is purpose-built to be intuitive and easy to adopt, with essential features focused on your core needs—even if it costs $10 to $20/user per month. A free CRM is often a freemium model that limits features, storage, or users to encourage upgrade to paid plans. Simple CRMs prioritize usability—free CRMs prioritize affordability but may require workarounds or lack functionality.2. How long does it typically take to implement a simple CRM?Simple CRMs can be operational within hours to days, not weeks or months like enterprise solutions. However, data migration, user training, and customization can add time. Most small teams see full adoption within two to four weeks if they follow the six-step selection framework and test with real users before committing.3. Can I switch CRM vendors later if I choose wrong the first time?Yes, but it’s costly in terms of time and resources. Switching requires data migration, retraining your team, and rebuilding workflows in a new system. This is why testing with real users during the trial phase (Step 3 of the framework) is so critical—it prevents costly switches down the road.4. What happens if my business grows beyond my simple CRM’s capabilities?Most simple CRMs are designed to scale with growing teams by adding users, not by adding complex features. If your business processes fundamentally change (e.g., moving from B2C to B2B sales), you may outgrow the tool—but a well-chosen simple CRM typically serves 5- to 50-person teams effectively for years.5. How important is mobile access for a simple CRM?Mobile access is essential in 2026, not optional. Nearly 81% of CRM users access their systems from multiple devices, and field-based teams (sales, service, consulting) rely on mobile to log interactions, update deals, and access customer history in real time. Always test the mobile app thoroughly during your trial phase.Finding the right fit for your businessThe simplest CRM solution isn’t necessarily a universal product—it’s the system that best aligns with how your business actually operates. And the framework above helps you systematically identify that fit.The real measure of CRM success isn’t feature breadth or vendor claims—it’s adoption. Teams embrace tools that make sense immediately, solve real problems, and don’t create new ones. Complexity doesn’t indicate capability; often, it indicates poor design. Simplicity—the kind built intentionally around your actual requirements—is the mark of purposeful design.As you evaluate simple CRM options, return to your nonnegotiable requirements list, and ask yourself:Does each candidate genuinely support your industry-specific workflows?Will your team intuitively understand how to use it?Is the setup fast enough that implementation doesn’t delay business value?These questions matter far more than feature lists or vendor marketing claims.The simplest CRM is the one your team will use consistently, from day one. Everything else is secondary.This story was produced by Nutshell and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Nexstar, Sinclair spend millions lobbying to rewrite TV station ownership rules Nexstar, Sinclair spend millions lobbying to rewrite TV station ownership rulesBroadcast giants are pouring millions into lobbying as they push federal regulators to loosen limits on how much of the national TV market one company can control, a change that could reshape local television across the country.OpenSecrets examined lobbying disclosures and congressional testimony to trace how the industry is working to rewrite the rules.Nexstar Media Group, which owns the most TV stations in the country, spent $3.2 million lobbying the Federal Communications Commission in 2025, roughly 10 times more than it did every year from 2018 to 2023, when its lobbying activity remained steady. Sinclair Broadcast Group, the second-largest station owner, last year spent four times its 2023 federal lobbying total.Both organizations are lobbying to change regulations that restrict their growth.National station owners are limited to owning stations that collectively reach no more than 39 percent of the national audience, but a regulatory loophole known as the UHF discount lets some stations be counted as reaching fewer households than they actually do.Without the discount, Nexstar serves 70 percent of national television households; with the UHF discount applied, however, its reach only extends to 39 percent.Potential Nexstar-Tegna merger drives record lobbying OpenSecrets Nexstar’s 2025 federal disclosure reports show the company lobbied on the ownership cap and a potential merger with Tegna, another major broadcaster.In August 2025, Nexstar announced a deal to acquire Tegna for $6.2 billion. The proposed merger would send the cumulative household reach soaring past the 39 percent ownership cap. Thus, the deal is pending while the FCC determines whether to change the ownership rules.To help sway the FCC, Congress and the White House, Nexstar hired lobbyist Jeff Miller, who served as finance chair on President Donald Trump’s second inaugural committee, at the start of 2025. Miller heads Miller Strategies, one of the firms that has benefited most from their close connection with the Trump administration. Nexstar paid the firm $510,000 over the course of the year, although most of its lobbying was handled by the company’s in-house team.Tegna reported its first year of lobbying in 2025, spending $550,000 exclusively on Miller Strategies. Combined, the lobbying firm raked in over a million dollars from just the potential Nexstar-Tegna merger.Sinclair multiplies spending as it eyes acquisitionSinclair spent $800,000 lobbying the FCC last year on issues such as media ownership and the communications ecosystem. When it nearly quadrupled its previous lobbying spending in 2024, it cited the same issues. OpenSecrets While Sinclair reaches a smaller share of TV households than Nexstar — about 24 percent when the UHF discount is applied — the company still sees the national ownership cap as limiting its ability to expand.The company has been in conversations with multiple potential merger partners and launched a strategic review in August, pointing to a desire to acquire one of its peers. Discussions with E.W. Scripps, a smaller broadcast station owner, began in 2024. The conversations never progressed, and in November, Sinclair announced it would pursue a hostile takeover of Scripps.Who gets to make the call?Rudy Brioche, a former vice president and policy counsel at Comcast, said that increases in lobbying from broadcast companies are centered on pending mergers and implementation of the ATSC 3.0 standard, which would change how television is transmitted to households. Before working for Comcast for 16 years, Brioche served as chief of staff at the FCC.“It is primarily about pending transactions, the ATSC standard 3.0, which is a new technology that would allow broadcasters to use the digital airwaves for other streams of revenue,” Brioche said.That push for regulatory changes is unfolding as broadcasters see a more favorable political climate in Washington.Trump’s push for deregulation has created hope for the largest station owners that they may gain more flexibility. The FCC has signaled its intention to do away with the 39 percent ownership cap, and its chairman, Brendan Carr, has shown support for allowing station owners to expand their reach.However, the jurisdiction over the ownership cap was one of the topics discussed in a recent Senate hearing that examined the rules around broadcast media ownership in the digital age. The debate in Congress over who has the authority to change the 39 percent ownership cap is central to Nexstar’s and Sinclair’s expansion plans. In 2004, Congress set the 39 percent cap and explicitly prohibited the FCC from using its forbearance authority to avoid enforcing the limit.Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) made clear that the authority to change the cap lay with Congress.“Just because large corporations like Nexstar and Tegna want to merge, it doesn’t mean they can simply ignore the laws that Congress has put in place,” Rosen said. “In order for there to be a merger that results in ownership above the 39 percent cap, Congress would have to change the law.”Proponents of change to the ownership cap argue that Congress didn’t set a permanent statutory limit, but instead directed the FCC to modify its rules at specific moments in time, leaving the underlying cap as a regulatory creation that the agency can revisit.The hearing also featured the National Association of Broadcasters’ chief executive officer, Curtis LeGeyt. NAB, the entertainment industry’s largest lobbying client, has long advocated for allowing station owners to expand past the ownership cap and for deregulation of the broadcast industry.“These outdated regulations distort today’s video and advertising marketplace,” LeGeyt said. “They advantage giant tech platforms, global streaming services, pay TV providers and national cable programmers, while placing local broadcasters at a severe disadvantage.”Chris Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax, a relatively small conservative broadcaster, urged members of Congress to protect the ownership cap, saying it blocks monopolization of the industry and promotes localism of stations.Whether that cap holds may depend not only on Congress but on how the FCC responds to political pressure from the White House and industry. The FCC historically has acted independently from past administrations, but has become increasingly politicized under Trump.During a congressional probe of the FCC focused on censorship and free speech in December 2025, Carr said the agency wasn’t independent of the administration, a contradiction to the mission statement that included the word “independent” prior to the hearing.Brioche, who served as former chief of staff at the FCC, noted how much things have changed under Trump.“It is different from past administrations, because past administrations viewed the FCC as an independent agency. This administration does not view the FCC as an independent agency,” Brioche said. “It views the FCC as a tool, an instrument of advancing its political interest.”Trump has recently reversed his position: Last November, he responded to a warning by Newsmax’s Ruddy against lifting the ownership cap by railing against the potential expansion of station owners because it would help enlarge “Radical Left Networks.”Nexstar has sought to represent the potential merger as aligned with the administration’s deregulation agenda. Its efforts seem to have worked. Trump reversed his position on the merger a few days before the congressional hearing, writing it would negatively impact the networks he doesn’t like and said, “GET THAT DEAL DONE!”Tom Bettag, a lecturer at the University of Maryland and former producer at ABC, said the Trump administration’s approach to regulating broadcasters and journalists was a way to control the media’s portrayal of him.“His real goal is to control the message that goes out to the American people, and to the degree that he can exercise control over the information that Americans get, he can work his will,” Bettag said. “In theory, he says that he is trying to fight anti-Trump bias, but in fact, his definition of anti-Trump bias is anything that isn’t pro-Trump.”This story was produced by OpenSecrets and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Illinois lawmakers push for regular train service between Moline and Chicago in Passenger Rail Planning Act Passenger rail service has been slowly expanding across Illinois in recent years. In 2025, provisions for new passenger lines from Chicago to Peoria and the Quad Cities were a part of the massive $1.5 billion transit bill. State Representative Rita Mayfield and State Senator Ram Villivalam think they have the answer with their Passenger Rail [...]
	This novel about family drama is so good you may want to re-read it immediately Allegra Goodman's new novel is called This Is Not About Us, but critic Maureen Corrigan says that title is coy: Readers are bound to see aspects of themselves and their families in these pages.
	Davenport West students get hands-on look at healthcare careers in UI Health Care STEM event Students at Davenport West High School got a unique look at possible healthcare career choices.
	Actor Stellan Skarsgård doesn't believe in bad guys Skarsgård plays a filmmaker struggling to connect with his two grown daughters in Sentimental Value. As the father of eight, the Swedish actor says he understands the tension his character faces.
	Gathering of the Green returns to QCs March 18-21 The Quad Cities welcomes Gathering of the Green back to the area March 18-21 for the Gathering of the Green Conference at the RiverCenter, 136 E. Third Street in Davenport. Click here for more information and the full agenda. The theme for this year is "An American Original," aligning with the nation’s 250th birthday this [...]
	Perplexity in-chat shopping with PayPal: Is it the future of e-commerce? Perplexity in-chat shopping with PayPal: Is it the future of e-commerce?Swipe. Tap. Buy. Online shopping already feels effortless — but Perplexity AI just raised the bar. Thanks to its new partnership with PayPal and Venmo, shoppers can now go from product discovery to seamless payment without ever leaving a chat interface.Welcome to Perplexity in-chat shopping, where personalized recommendations and secure checkout happen in the same thread — no new tabs, no detours, facilitating direct transactions.So how exactly is Perplexity’s latest move flipping the script on e-commerce — and how does it stack up against competitors like ChatGPT Shopping? More importantly, how are shoppers and brands navigating the AI retail curve? WebFX breaks it all down below.What is Perplexity in-chat shopping? WebFX Perplexity is rolling out this innovation while finalizing a $500 million funding round at a $14 billion valuation — a bold gesture that underscores how seriously the company is investing in the future of AI-driven commerce.Perplexity in-chat shopping is the latest innovation from Perplexity AI — a rising player in the generative AI space. With its new PayPal partnership, Perplexity allows users to shop, book travel, and purchase event tickets directly within its AI-powered chat interface.No redirects. No cart juggling. Just ask, decide, and buy — all inside the same conversation.Perplexity chat commerce’s integration with PayPal and Venmo allows users to:Complete purchases directly in chatUse passkey one-click checkoutHandle shipping, tracking, and invoicing without leaving the platformThe result? A seamless and secure experience designed for today’s fast-moving digital shopper.What does this mean for shoppers?Shopping on Perplexity AI isn’t just a tech flex — it’s a total upgrade to the shopping experience. Prospective buyers can now go from asking a product question to finishing a purchase without bouncing between apps, tabs, or screens.With secure PayPal and Venmo integration, they get peace of mind during checkout. The process is quick, frictionless, and personalized — just the way today’s consumers like it.This also means:No more checkout forms: Passkey one-click payments simplify the processNo missed context: You stay in the same session where your buying decision startedSmarter suggestions: AI tailors recommendations to match your query and intentIn short, shoppers get more convenience, fewer distractions, and smarter, safer purchases.Why this matters for the e-commerce industryPerplexity’s evolution from a search-focused AI to a full-fledged shopping channel marks a major shift in digital commerce. It’s not just about visibility anymore — it’s about actionability and converting conversations into revenue.With Perplexity AI shopping now powering search, discovery, and checkout, brands are increasingly positioning themselves to be present where decisions happen — in the chat.1. It’s the next step in AI commerceMajor players like Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal are betting big on what they call agentic commerce — AI systems that can browse, select, and buy on behalf of users. This is bigger than Perplexity chat commerce. It’s AI as your next prime sales channel.2. It’s a race — and Perplexity is ahead (for now)Perplexity’s main competitors — ChatGPT, Claude, and Google’s AI Overviews — are all expanding their shopping capabilities. But Perplexity AI shopping is one of the first to enable full checkout inside chat, giving it a potent head start.If your store is already using Shopify or PayPal, this integration means your products could soon be discoverable and shoppable inside Perplexity.3. Trust and frictionless checkout matter more than everWith PayPal and Venmo handling authentication, payment, and support, shoppers get a seamless experience that builds trust. Perplexity’s integration with passkey checkout eliminates friction — no hoops, no hassles, just a one-click transaction. That convenience could make or break the sale.How Perplexity in-chat shopping worksSo, what does the full path to purchase actually look like inside Perplexity’s AI chat? It’s simpler — and smarter — than you think.Here’s a snapshot of how the process flows:A user chats with Perplexity about a product or service.Perplexity recommends options using AI + structured data.The user selects and purchases the item inside the chat window.PayPal handles payment, shipping, and support — automatically.It’s a high-conversion, low-friction process supported by recommendations and zero distractions.How it compares to ChatGPT ShoppingWhile ChatGPT shopping nudges users toward product discovery with carousels and outbound links leading to product pages, Perplexity takes it further by shortening the loop — letting users research, choose, and purchase all in one go, no bouncing around.Here’s a quick comparison: WebFX This shift offers shoppers speed and simplicity while providing brands with a new revenue channel built directly into how people now search, decide, and shop.How businesses are adapting to Perplexity in-chat shoppingPerplexity’s platform is evolving quickly — and brands that adapt to these platforms may see early advantages in this new era of AI-driven commerce. To stay ahead, businesses need infrastructure that makes products discoverable, trusted, and ready to convert inside a chat thread.Common strategies for adaptation include:1. Indexing products with structured dataHelp Perplexity (and other AI platforms) understand your offerings with structured data. Use schema markup — especially Product and Offer schema — to highlight key attributes like price, availability, ratings, and shipping info. This fuels smarter recommendations and boosts your chances of surfacing in shopping responses.2. Synchronizing with PayPal or ShopifyPerplexity AI shopping already integrates with major e-commerce tools like Shopify, PayPal, and Venmo. If your store isn’t connected to these platforms, now’s the time to align. These integrations power the in-chat checkout experience and eliminate attrition during payment and fulfillment.3. Optimizing for conversational discoveryThink beyond SEO. AI chat platforms rely on clear, well-structured content to match queries with products. Strengthen your product pages with specific descriptions, answer common customer questions, and add high-quality user reviews to increase trust and visibility in conversational search.4. Monitoring AI-driven referrals in GA4Track your AI traffic. Set up a custom channel group in Google Analytics 4 (GA4) to monitor visits and conversions from Perplexity, ChatGPT, Gemini, and other AI engines. This gives you the data to measure performance, justify investment, and refine your strategy as the space evolves. WebFX Shopping has evolved — it’s now agenticWhat is agentic commerce?Agentic commerce refers to AI-powered systems that not only help users discover products but also autonomously browse, select, and purchase them — essentially acting as trusted digital shopping agents.The broader landscape is shifting fast. In April, Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal all launched tools to integrate AI into online transactions. Visa introduced Intelligent Commerce, allowing AI to select items and make secure, tokenized payments. Mastercard unveiled Agent Pay, combining Microsoft’s AI technologies with trusted payment systems to push the boundaries of agentic commerce.PayPal, meanwhile, released an agent toolkit to embed its payment tech into AI-driven shopping experiences — another move solidifying its role at the center of this transformation.According to recent Salesforce data, AI-driven chat for customer service jumped 42% in the past year based on their analysis of 1.5 billion shoppers and 1.6 trillion page views across its platform. AI-influenced buying decisions also grew, with global AI-driven sales reaching $229 billion during November and December 2024 alone.The journey from chat to checkout just got a serious upgrade. Embedding your brand into this AI-powered flow represents a shift in the e-commerce landscape as the industry moves toward integrated AI solutions.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The countries where you can still buy European residency, and what it actually costs in 2026 The countries where you can still buy European residency, and what it actually costs in 2026Three years ago, an investor with 500,000 euros and a desire for European residency had half a dozen options. In 2026, that list has shrunk considerably — and the programs that remain are more expensive, more complex, and more competitive than ever.Spain closed its Golden Visa to new applications in April 2025, ending a 12-year-old program that had attracted thousands of real estate-based investors. Ireland shut its immigrant investor program in 2023. The United Kingdom ended its Tier 1 investor visa in 2022. Portugal eliminated real estate purchases as a qualifying route in October 2023, though it kept the program alive through alternative investment channels.For non-EU citizens seeking European residency through investment, the remaining options are navigable — but they require careful comparison. Minimum investments range from 250,000 to 2 million euros, processing times vary from three months to over two years, and the paths to citizenship differ dramatically from one country to the next.Movingto.com highlights what every current European golden visa program costs, requires, and delivers in 2026 — ranked from the lowest minimum investment to the highest.Portugal — 250,000 to 500,000 eurosProgram: Golden Visa (Autorização de Residência para Atividade de Investimento)Launched: 2012Status: Active, but reformed. Real estate route eliminated in October 2023.Portugal’s Golden Visa is the most established residency-by-investment program in Europe and has attracted over 7.3 billion euros in total investment since launch, according to official statistics compiled by Movingto.com. Approximately 17,700 main applicants and 42,600 total beneficiaries have obtained residency through the program.Since the 2023 reforms, the qualifying routes are:Cultural heritage donations: 250,000 euros (reduced to 200,000 euros in low-density areas)Investment funds: 500,000 euros in CMVM-regulated venture capital or private equity fundsScientific research: 500,000 euros supporting certified research institutionsJob creation: Establishing a business that creates at least 10 positionsAccording to Movingto.com’s internal data from over 2,500 processed applications, 96% of current applicants choose the fund route, 3% opt for cultural heritage, and 2% choose scientific research.Minimum stay: 7 days per year (averaged over two-year renewal periods)Citizenship timeline: 5 years from application date — though pending legislation may extend this to 10 yearsProcessing time: 12 to 24 months through AIMAFamily inclusion: Spouse, children, and dependent parentsPortugal remains the benchmark for European golden visas. No other program matches the combination of a low minimum-stay requirement, a clear citizenship pathway, and over a decade of operational track record.Hungary — 250,000 eurosProgram: Guest Investor Residence PermitLaunched: July 2024 (relaunch; original program ran 2013-2017)Status: Active. Real estate route abolished January 2025.Hungary’s reintroduced golden visa is the newest program on this list and one of the most affordable. The primary route is a 250,000 euro investment in real estate fund units registered with the Hungarian National Bank, with at least 40% of the fund’s assets allocated to Hungarian residential property. A second option — a 1 million euro donation to a public trust university — exists but is rarely used.The program’s standout feature is its permit duration: 10 years, renewable for an additional 10 years, making it the longest initial validity of any European golden visa.Minimum stay: None required to maintain residencyCitizenship timeline: 8 years of continuous residence after obtaining permanent residency (available after 3 years)Processing time: Approximately 3 to 6 monthsFamily inclusion: Spouse, minor children, and dependent parentsThe main trade-off is program maturity. Hungary’s golden visa has been operational for less than two years in its current form, and only two government-approved funds were available as of early 2026. By comparison, Portugal’s fund marketplace includes more than 30 regulated options.Greece — 250,000 to 800,000 eurosProgram: Golden VisaLaunched: 2013Status: Active. Significant threshold increases took effect in September 2024.Greece introduced a tiered pricing structure that took effect on Sept. 1, 2024, fundamentally changing its value proposition. The country that once offered a flat 250,000 euro entry point across all locations now operates a three-zone system.Zone A (Athens/Attica, Thessaloniki, and islands with over 3,100 inhabitants — including Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and over 30 others): 800,000 euro minimum, single property of at least 120 square metersZone B (all other regions): 400,000 euros minimum, single property of at least 120 square metersZone C (commercial conversions and heritage buildings): 250,000 euros, regardless of locationNonproperty routes also exist: 500,000 euros in government bonds, 800,000 euros in shares or corporate bonds, or 350,000 euros in qualifying mutual funds — though these are rarely used compared to real estate.Minimum stay: None requiredCitizenship timeline: 7 years of continuous tax residence, plus language and culture exams Processing time: 4 to 9 months (though backlogs have caused longer waits)Family inclusion: Spouse, children under 21, and parents of both applicant and spouseGreece’s program remains real estate-centric, which is both its strength and its vulnerability. Investors get a tangible asset with rental income potential — but they also take on property management, maintenance, and the risk that Greece may follow Portugal and Spain in restricting or eliminating real estate as a qualifying route in the future. Short-term rentals (such as Airbnb) are now prohibited for Golden Visa properties, with violations carrying a 50,000 euro fine and potential permit cancellation.Italy — 250,000 to 2,000,000 eurosProgram: Investor Visa (Visto per Investitori)Launched: 2017Status: Active.Italy’s investor visa is often overlooked but offers one of the fastest processing times in Europe — typically three to four months. The qualifying routes span a wide range.Innovative startups: 250,000 euros in a government-approved Italian startupItalian companies: 500,000 euros in share capital of an established Italian limited companyPhilanthropic donation: 1 million euros to a project of public interestGovernment bonds: 2 million euros in Italian treasury securitiesThe initial permit is valid for two years, with a three-year renewal — shorter than most competitors. Italy’s citizenship timeline is also the longest among active European programs at 10 years of continuous residence.Minimum stay: No strict minimum, but applicants must demonstrate intent to reside Citizenship timeline: 10 years of legal residenceProcessing time: 3 to 4 monthsFamily inclusion: Spouse and minor childrenItaly’s main appeal lies in its flat-tax regime for new residents: qualifying investors can pay a lump sum of 300,000 euros per year on worldwide income (with an additional 50,000 euros per family member), valid for up to 15 years. For high-net-worth individuals with significant global income, this can represent substantial tax savings — though professional tax advice is essential.Malta — about 99,000 euros or more (combined fees, plus property)Program: Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) Launched: 2021 Status: Active.Malta’s program is structured differently from most golden visas. Rather than a single large investment, it combines several smaller financial commitments:Government contribution: 37,000 eurosAdministrative fee: 60,000 eurosProperty: Purchase at 375,000 euros minimum, or rent at 14,000 euros or more per year for five yearsCharitable donation: 2,000 euros to an approved NGOThe total outlay for a renting applicant starts at roughly 99,000 euros in fees and contributions, plus 70,000 euros in rent over five years. Buyers are looking at a minimum of approximately 475,000 euros all-in.Malta’s key differentiator is that the MPRP grants permanent residency from day one — not a temporary permit that requires renewal. It also offers a potential pathway to citizenship by merit (formerly citizenship by investment), though that route was restructured in 2025 and now requires a residency period plus demonstrated exceptional contribution to Malta.Minimum stay: None required to maintain permanent residencyCitizenship timeline: 12 to 36 months of residency before citizenship-by-merit eligibility (separate process and cost)Processing time: 4 to 8 monthsFamily inclusion: Spouse, children under 29, parents, and grandparentsMalta is the only English-speaking EU country with a golden visa, which makes it particularly attractive to American and British investors.Cyprus — 300,000 eurosProgram: Permanent Residence by InvestmentLaunched: 2021 (current version)Status: Active.Cyprus offers permanent residency for a 300,000 euro real estate investment, plus a 30,000 euro fixed-term bank deposit held for three years. The program is relatively straightforward and processes quickly — typically within two to four months.Minimum stay: One visit every two yearsCitizenship timeline: 7 years of continuous residence (with at least 5 years of the final 7 spent in Cyprus)Processing time: 2 to 4 monthsFamily inclusion: Spouse, children under 25, and parents of both applicant and spouseCyprus closed its citizenship-by-investment program in 2020 following corruption scandals, and the current residence program is more modest in scope. The island’s appeal is its speed, low taxes (no wealth tax, inheritance tax, or gift tax), and geographic proximity to the Middle East — making it particularly popular with investors from the Gulf states and South Asia.The Programs That No Longer ExistSeveral prominent European golden visas have closed in recent years, narrowing the field considerably.Spain (closed April 2025): Required 500,000 euros in real estate. Attracted thousands of investors and over 1 billion euros annually in foreign investment. Ended due to housing affordability concerns.Ireland (closed February 2023): Required 1 million euros in approved investments. Closed amid political pressure and low utilization.United Kingdom (closed February 2022): Required 2 million pounds minimum. Ended over concerns about money laundering and insufficient economic benefit.Portugal real estate route (closed October 2023): The property-based pathway that drove the vast majority of the program’s 7.3 billion euros in investment was eliminated, though the program continues through fund-based and other qualifying routes.How the Remaining Programs Compare Movingto.com *Portugal’s 5-year citizenship pathway may extend to 10 years under pending legislation currently before Parliament.What Investors Should Know Before ChoosingThe right program depends entirely on an investor’s priorities. For those who want the fastest path to EU citizenship, Portugal’s current five-year timeline — if it holds — remains unmatched. For investors who want a tangible real estate asset, Greece still offers that option, though at a higher price than before. For speed of processing and tax efficiency, Italy and Malta each have distinct advantages. And for those seeking the longest permit duration at the lowest cost, Hungary’s 10-year renewable permit at 250,000 euros is hard to beat on paper, though the program’s limited track record is a consideration.What is clear from the data is that the era of cheap, easy European residency through property purchases is ending. The programs that remain are increasingly structured around managed funds, business investment, and economic contribution — a shift that rewards careful planning over impulse purchases.Methodology: This analysis draws on program regulations and official government sources current as of February 2026, including Portugal’s Lei n.º 56/2023, Greece’s Law No. 5162/2024, Hungary’s Guest Investor Programme legislation, Italy’s Investor Visa regulations (Legislative Decree no. 147/2017), Malta’s MPRP regulations (L.N. 121/2021), and Cyprus’s Permanent Residence by Investment scheme. Portugal-specific statistics are drawn from AIMA data as compiled by Movingto.com, with internal client data from over 2,500 processed applications. Investment minimums reflect the lowest qualifying entry point for each program; total costs including legal fees, government charges, and ancillary expenses will be higher.This story was produced by Movingto.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Aledo City Council votes to terminate LRS contract, picks new waste collection provider The move comes after public complaints about LRS over service failures in the past two years.
	Regrettable attrition: Leading indicators and how to prevent it Regrettable attrition: Leading indicators and how to prevent itYou know the feeling. An email lands in your inbox with the subject line: "My two-week notice." It is not from the employee struggling to meet their KPIs or the one who has been openly discussing retirement. It is from your team lead, your top engineer, or your most reliable project manager.This could be the person you were counting on for next year’s strategy. This could be a culture driver, a high performer, and now, they are leaving. This is what regrettable attrition looks like.For HR leaders, the goal isn't to stop all turnover. The goal is to identify and prevent the loss of the people you most want to keep and whose departures seem preventable.To do this, organizations must move beyond simply analyzing exit interviews and start recognizing the warning signs while people are still there, Spring Health reports. By understanding the link between mental health, employee burnout, and engagement, HR leaders can build a system that detects these signals early enough to intervene.What is regrettable attrition?Not all turnover is created equal. Regrettable attrition (or regretted attrition) refers to the avoidable loss of high performers, individuals in critical roles, or employees with institutional knowledge that is difficult to replace. These are the exits that hurt the business.This stands in stark contrast to healthy or expected turnover. Healthy turnover might include the departure of an employee who was a poor fit for the role, creating space for someone who can perform at a higher level. It also encompasses planned life transitions, such as retirements or relocations that the organization anticipated.While the financial cost of replacing an employee is often cited—ranging from one-half to two times an annual salary—the operational impact is often more damaging. Regrettable attrition can: Break continuityStall projectsSever client relationshipsDamage team moraleForce remaining team members to absorb extra work, which increases their own risk of burnoutProtecting your organization against this slide is not just about headcount. It is about stabilizing the foundation of your business performance.Moving beyond lagging indicatorsFor decades, the exit interview has been the primary tool for understanding attrition. HR teams diligently code the reasons for departure—compensation, career growth, management—and report them to leadership.The problem is that exit data is a lagging indicator. By the time you capture it, the talent has already left. You are analyzing the past rather than influencing the present.A strategic HR function builds a "leading indicator system." This means looking for signals across the employee lifecycle that suggest an employee is disengaging or struggling. These signals appear in onboarding friction, performance review nuances, and benefit utilization patterns long before a resignation letter is drafted.4 hidden pathways to regrettable exitsEmployees rarely quit on a whim. The path to a regrettable exit is usually a slow, silent slide. Here are four common pathways that lead to regrettable attrition and how a mental health strategy can intercept them:Burnout to disengagement to job searchBurnout is not just about being tired. It is a state of chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It creates a sense of cynicism and distance from one's job.The pathway. It begins with unmanageable workloads or a lack of recovery time. The employee tries to power through but eventually hits a wall. Motivation drops. Productivity slows. Finally, the employee disconnects psychologically. Once disengagement sets in, the exit is the next logical step.How to reduce the risk. An innovative mental health solution, such as an enhanced EAP, can intercept this. Not every stressed employee needs clinical therapy. Some need coaching to manage time better. Others need self-guided exercises to decompress. By providing fast access to the right level of care, you help employees build resilience before they reach the breaking point.Actionable ideas. Review teams with consistently high hours and redistribute tasks. Encourage leaders to model taking PTO and disconnecting after hours. Use AI to reduce or replace tactical and repeatable tasks so you have more time to focus on employee experience.Manager friction and the performance spiralThe relationship between an employee and their direct manager is one of the biggest drivers of engagement, but can also influence attrition. Consider that managers have an impact on an employee’s mental health as much as spouses do, according to one study. The pathway. This often starts with unclear expectations or a lack of feedback. An employee feels unsure of their standing. The manager, perhaps burned out themselves, avoids difficult conversations. A surprise negative performance review damages trust. The employee feels slighted and starts looking for a culture where they feel valued.How to reduce the risk. Manager enablement is critical. Managers need to know how to recognize distress and how to respond with empathy rather than judgment. When a manager can say, "I notice you seem stressed, and I want to support you," instead of "Your output is down," they build loyalty.Actionable ideas. When a manager notices a team member struggling, observe any changes, ask non-judgmental questions, and remind them of the mental health resources available to them.Unplanned mental health leaves as "retention smoke"Unplanned leaves of absence (LOA) are often a final distress flare. When high performers suddenly need time off for mental health reasons, it indicates the environment has become unsustainable for them.The pathway. HR may see this pattern: An employee struggles, perhaps goes on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP), and shortly after files for short-term disability or FMLA for mental health. To the organization, this looks like a compliance process. To the employee, it is a crisis.How to reduce the risk. Treat unplanned leaves as "retention smoke" — a sign of fire somewhere in the organization. A mental health solution with a Care Navigator can help an employee on leave get the treatment they need faster, leading to a smoother, more successful return to work. Even better, early access to care can prevent the leave entirely.Actionable ideas. Look for hotspots in specific departments or under specific managers. Ensure employees know they can access mental health support confidentially, without manager approval.Financial strain and life instabilityEmployees bring their whole lives to work. Financial stress is a massive driver of anxiety and can force employees to seek roles with even marginally higher pay, even if they like their current job.The pathway. Inflation, debt, or family caregiving costs create chronic low-level panic. This cognitive load makes it hard to focus at work. The employee feels unstable and seeks a "safety raft" - often a new job with a signing bonus or a salary bump.How to reduce the risk. While you cannot always solve an employee's personal financial crisis, you can offer stabilization. Access to financial coaching, work-life services (like child care or elder care support), and mental health support helps lower the temperature. When an employee feels the company cares about their human needs, retention rises.Actionable ideas: Remind employees of financial wellness benefits and EAP resources. Ensure managers understand that performance dips might be related to life factors, not ability.A simple measurement approachYou do not need to measure everything to make an impact. The goal is to select a few key HR metrics that tell the story of your workforce's health.Leading indicators (the early warning system) Spring Health ‍Operational strain indicators (the stress test) Spring Health ‍Retention and continuity outcomes Spring Health From explanation to preventionBurnout is one of the biggest drivers of regrettable attrition, and it doesn’t happen overnight. It builds up over time, fueled by unnoticed signals like rising stress, declining engagement, or unaddressed workload concerns.Take a close look at your mental health support. Is it something employees actively trust and use, or just a passive resource collecting dust? By offering accessible, proactive, and timely care, you can address burnout before it drives your people to leave — and keep your team thriving.FAQWhat is the difference between regrettable attrition and non-regrettable attrition?Regrettable attrition is the loss of high-performing employees, those in critical roles, or those with vital institutional knowledge that the company wanted to retain. Non-regrettable attrition includes the departure of low performers, those who were a poor cultural fit, or planned exits like retirement.Why are exit interviews considered lagging indicators?Exit interviews occur after the employee has already decided to leave. The data collected explains the past, but comes too late to prevent the departure. Leading indicators, such as engagement scores or absenteeism, offer data that allows for intervention before an employee quits.How does burnout impact employee turnover?Burnout is a major driver of turnover. Research indicates that employees experiencing burnout are significantly more likely to actively search for new jobs. Burnout leads to disengagement, reduced productivity, and eventually, the decision to leave the organization to recover.What is the role of managers in preventing regrettable attrition?Managers are the first line of defense. They impact employee engagement more than any other factor. By conducting regular check-ins, providing clear feedback, and recognizing signs of distress, managers can connect employees to support and resolve issues before they lead to resignation.How can mental health benefits improve retention?Comprehensive mental health benefits signal that the company values the employee as a person. More importantly, fast access to care (coaching, therapy) helps employees manage stress and burnout effectively, preventing the "silent slide" toward disengagement and exit.What are some examples of leading indicators for attrition?Common leading indicators include a sudden drop in productivity, a change in attitude or withdrawal from team activities, a lack of vacation usage (or sudden sporadic absences), and low scores on pulse surveys regarding stress or workload.This story was produced by Spring Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Bettendorf mayor to deliver state of the city address Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher is set to give the 2026 state of the city address.
	Why modern cars look and feel so different today Why modern cars look and feel so different todayOne surefire way to trace just how quickly the world has changed in recent years is to take a look at the road and marvel at the latest breed of automobiles. The newest vehicle designs reflect evolving lifestyles, safety rules, functional needs and technology expectations.Contemporary cars boast eye-catching styling elements and innovative technology—from more powerful electric batteries and sleeker touchscreens to greater connectivity and autonomous capabilities. Stronger sales of hybrids and EVs in recent years demonstrate that drivers have embraced electrification.TheZebra explores the latest trends in automotive design, different factors influencing today’s cars and what to expect in the near future.The Biggest Forces Shaping Modern Car DesignToday’s cars are heavier, larger and packed with more forward-thinking technology.“A lot of today’s car designs aren’t about style—they're about compliance and efficiency,” Zoriy Birenboym, CEO of eAutoLease.com, notes. “Safety regulations have become far more demanding, with higher crash standards, pedestrian protection and rollover requirements that all influence size and structure.”Lauren Fix, an automotive expert and analyst with Car Coach Reports, agrees that modern vehicles look taller, bulkier and more similar because strict safety requirements necessitate bigger crush zones, thicker pillars and softer edges to protect passengers.“Autos increasingly use sensors and cameras that require integrated placements on the front and sides. Efficiency standards push for sleeker, more aerodynamic shapes to improve fuel economy and meet emissions rules. And consumers want more versatility in their vehicles so they can haul families, gear or groceries, which helps explain the popularity of SUVs and crossovers.”Additionally, manufacturers are sharing platforms across multiple models to help control costs, which often results in visual consistency across makes and models.Why Interiors Have Changed More Than ExteriorsToday, interior amenities are often more eye-popping than the exterior features, among them heads-up displays, driver-assist alerts and more interactive touchscreens that have replaced physical buttons.“Interiors have changed more quickly than exteriors because software, screens and digital technology have evolved quickly, while exterior designs must meet long-term safety and regulatory requirements,” explains Shawn Miller, blogger with The Cars Daily.Inside the car, brands can change things up quickly without reengineering the entire vehicle. Exterior modifications, on the other hand, require expensive tooling and crash revalidation.How Driver-Assist Tech Reshaped Car DesignAdvanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) have quietly impacted how cars are built and styled. Radar, lidar, cameras and sensors require clear sightlines, which affect grille openings, mirror placement, bumper design, windshield angles and rooflines. Hoods are higher and pillars thicker because they need to house airbags, sensors and structural reinforcements.Intelmarket Research reports that over three in five new vehicles today come equipped with basic ADAS features, and ADAS is projected to prevent 37 million crashes, 14 million injuries and 250,000 deaths over the next 30 years in America alone. In the chart below, you can see how the rate of traffic deaths over time has decreased sharply with the introduction of new safety features.“However, full self-driving remains stuck due to complicated technology, legal and liability issues. But partial systems like adaptive cruise, lane centering, and auto braking have exploded because they are reliable and affordable and can improve safety,” Fix says. TheZebra Electrification’s Quiet Influence on All CarsMeanwhile, more cars nowadays are equipped with electric batteries, which have also changed layouts and proportions. Placing a flat battery pack low in the chassis with compact electric motors at the axles eliminates the engine, transmission tunnel and exhaust, which creates flatter floors, longer wheelbases and cabins and shorter overhangs.“But heavier battery packs add weight that can reduce efficiency by increasing energy use for acceleration and rolling resistance, while also making handling feel less agile,” says Fix.Connected Cars and Changing ExpectationsBeyond basic Bluetooth, many modern rides stay connected via high-speed 5G cellular, Wi-Fi hotspots and even Satellite links for emergency safety in remote areas. Some models also use V2X tech to "talk" to traffic lights and other cars, while utilizing NFC and Ultra-Wideband to transform your smartphone into a secure, pocket-ready digital key.“Built-in connectivity is no longer optional. Today’s drivers expect navigation, updates and apps to work seamlessly without relying on their phones alone,” Miller says.Features That Came Standard – and Those That DisappearedMany new cars promise a variety of standard features at no extra charge, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, backup cameras, automatic emergency braking, lane assist, automatic high beams, rear cross-traffic alerts, driver monitoring systems and over-the-air update capability.On the other hand, CD players, manual transmissions, spare tires, physical volume knobs and car manuals are being phased out, as are sedans in general.Design Trade-offs Consumers Don’t Always RealizeHowever, newer, larger and digital don’t always mean better for consumers.“Larger vehicles offer more space and perceived safety but sacrifice fuel efficiency and maneuverability due to added weight and worse aerodynamics. Meanwhile, bigger wheels and low-profile tires look sporty and improve handling grip but deliver a harsher ride, more road noise and higher repair costs from pothole damage,” cautions Fix.Also, while touchscreens are trendy, many drivers prefer physical buttons that simplify basic tasks.Truth is, many autos look similar nowadays. That’s because safety laws and cost targets help push designers toward the same practical shapes.“There’s only so much freedom when aerodynamics, crash physics and efficiency rule the room,” Birenboym says. “True differentiation today often comes from lighting signatures, interior experience, and software – not body shape alone.”Where Car Design May Shift TowardIn the years ahead, the experts anticipate vehicles offering:Fewer screens, but more physical buttons and tactile controls to reduce driver distraction. “Expect technology to fade more into the background rather than demand your attention while driving,” predicts Miller.Advanced voice controls, gesture controls and eye-tracking AI that allow drivers to focus on the road.Biometric health-sensing seats that employ embedded sensors to monitor driver fatigue and stress levels, automatically adjusting the cabin’s climate and haptics.More personalized and user-friendly cabins with less clutter. “Expect cars to balance high-tech capability with the kind of simple, safe operation people actually want from everyday driving,” Fix says.More sustainable interior appointments, such as recycled ocean plastics and bio-based textiles that provide more tactile luxury over hard plastics.The Bottom LineDesign choices in new autos play a major role in comfort, safety, repair costs and ownership experience. It’s smart to pay close attention to the latest car styling trends and offerings so you can make a more informed decision when it’s time to purchase, avoid buyer's remorse, and get better value from your chosen vehicle.This story was produced by TheZebra and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The hidden costs of waiting until tax season to review rental finances The hidden costs of waiting until tax season to review rental financesAs the April tax filing deadline approaches, a familiar scene will play out across the country: Rental owners will dig through old text and email messages and scramble to collect receipts and bank statements.This is a reactive strategy that can actually cost you more than just stress. Year-end bookkeeping and scattered accounting can distort the financial reality of your rental business, and cost you valuable insights and real money.RentRedi shares what to know about waiting until tax season to review a year’s worth of rental finances, and how you can develop real-time expense tracking habits that will save you time and money.Missed deductions are more common than landlords thinkMemory-based tracking is unreliable, especially when many months have passed by the time they are being recalled. It’s easy to forget expenses that felt minor at the time or were spread across different cards, bank accounts, or apps. Small but frequent costs (i.e., cleaning supplies, hardware store runs, mileage to and from a property, partial repairs) often don’t stand out individually, but they add up. Together, they can represent thousands of dollars over a year.When those expenses aren’t captured in the moment, they’re more likely to be missed entirely. Underclaimed deductions may result from the miscategorization of repairs versus improvements and from inconsistent tracking and reporting of vehicle mileage, home office use, and prorated expenses tied to specific units.If you don’t have a complete record when it’s time to file taxes, you may end up paying more in taxes than necessary. That’s not because certain deductions weren’t allowed; it’s because they weren’t remembered or documented in time. Catching these deductions requires detailed records, clear categorization, and supporting documentation, none of which are easy to recreate months later.Delayed bookkeeping hides problems until it’s too lateReviewing rental finances only during tax season can delay important insights into how a property or portfolio is really performing. Small financial issues often stay hidden until they’ve had time to grow, and the lack of ongoing visibility makes it harder to adjust spending or operations in ways that could save money during the year.Uncategorized or delayed expenses inflate perceived margins. Shared costs, such as insurance, utilities, or maintenance across multiple units, may never get properly allocated. Without consistent tracking, it’s nearly impossible to see trends like rising maintenance costs, increasing vacancy-related expenses, or underperforming units that require attention.This lack of visibility makes it risky to make growth decisions. Expanding a portfolio, raising rents, refinancing, or investing in renovations based on incomplete data can amplify financial strain. What feels like a strong year-end snapshot may actually be masking issues that have been building for months.Waiting raises the costs of professional helpWhen bookkeeping is delayed, accountants spend more time cleaning up records instead of advising. Hours that could be used to identify tax strategies, depreciation options, or planning opportunities are instead spent reconstructing transactions and asking follow-up questions.More time spent piecing together financial records often results in higher fees. Tax season is already the busiest time of year for professionals, and additional back-and-forth increases the risk of mistakes or decisions based on incomplete information. The pressure to meet deadlines can force everyone involved to move faster than is ideal, which benefits no one.In contrast, organized, up-to-date records allow tax preparation to focus on review and optimization rather than reconstruction.Why more landlords are shifting to year-round trackingSuccessful rental owners are moving away from once-a-year accounting toward real-time tracking. The primary reason is visibility. Having an up-to-date view of the health of each rental property, or an entire portfolio, makes it easier to spot issues early and respond with intention.Year-round tracking turns accounting into a healthy habit, rather than a stressful deadline. It reduces procrastination and spreads the workload evenly across the year. Instead of rushing to assemble information in March or April, financial data is reviewed incrementally, which lowers stress and improves accuracy.This approach also shifts the emphasis from speed to predictability and confidence. Keeping numbers current leads to decisions made with clarity rather than guesswork.What real-time tracking looks like in practiceReal-time tracking doesn’t require complex systems or accounting expertise. It comes down to consistency, timing, and using tools that can help you organize your rental finances according to how they must actually be reported for taxes.In practice, real-time accounting looks like this:Log expenses as they happen. Record purchases, services, and mileage when they occur (not weeks or months later). This captures both major costs and the smaller, recurring expenses that are easiest to forget but often make a meaningful difference by year-end.Save and upload receipts at the moment of purchase. Captured receipts as photos while details are still fresh and digitally upload them to a central location where they can be stored together until they are needed for tax prep. Some accounting technologies have the ability to extract key information from receipt uploads and assign each expense to the appropriate property and tax category, creating clean records that support (and even automatically populate) both profit-and-loss statements and Schedule E reports.Track income and expenses in one place. When rent payments and expenses are recorded together, it’s easier to understand true cash flow. A centralized view allows owners to see accurate, up-to-date profit-and-loss performance without manually reconciling spreadsheets, bank statements, or multiple apps.Keep P&Ls and Schedule E documentation continuously updated. As transactions are recorded throughout the year, update financial reports (technology can help you do this automatically). By the time tax season arrives, profit-and-loss statements and Schedule E summaries are already organized, current, and ready to review.Tax season should be a financial review, not a rebuildTax season is much less painful when it becomes a financial review instead of a rebuild. Focusing on consistent visibility and preparedness gives you more control over your rental business and reduces the likelihood of unpleasant surprises.Tracking finances in real time allows you to address issues as they arise and enables you to make more informed, timely decisions that can improve the performance of an entire portfolio. When April arrives, your focus can then shift from scrambling to understanding, so that you can review what happened, learn from it, and plan what comes next.This story was produced by RentRedi and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Kalshi reveals insider trading case against editor for MrBeast With prediction markets booming, so have concerns about insider trading. Now, Kalshi has disclosed its first public actions against accounts suspected of trading on confidential information.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Feb. 25, 2026 Bettendorf's mayor is set to give his State of the City address, and Davenport council members will vote to approve Tim Gleason's city contract.
	Davenport city council to consider joining regional fire mutual aid system City leaders are considering a proposal that could connect Davenport firefighters to a broader regional system for large-scale emergencies and specialized rescues.
	Rising SR-22 filings: Why more drivers are turning to nonowner insurance Rising SR-22 filings: Why more drivers are turning to nonowner insuranceFor the 67% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck in early 2026, a single traffic ticket can feel like the start of a financial tailspin. We all know a clean record is the goal, but for those who literally cannot get to work without a car, the stakes are much higher. It only takes one bad weekend to flip your status from a "preferred" driver to a "high-risk" liability, a move that can complicate your life—and your bank account—for years.In most states, that high-risk label follows you after just two major violations, like reckless driving, or even a single lapse in your insurance coverage. Even if you don't lose your license entirely, you're looking at a premium spike that can hit 40% to 100%. When you’re already watching every dollar, absorbing a $200-a-month increase is nearly impossible. This is why more people are looking at the SR-22 nonowner policy as a legitimate way to keep their mobility without going broke.SR22 Insurance explains how these filings work and why nonowner policies are gaining traction.What Is SR-22 Insurance and Who Needs It?Technically, "SR" stands for Safety Responsibility. An SR-22 is not an insurance policy but a certificate of financial responsibility filed electronically by a carrier with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).Its primary function is to provide the state with real-time verification that a driver meets mandated liability minimums. This filing is a critical component of the license reinstatement process and is often a court-ordered prerequisite for obtaining a restricted or "hardship" permit.In most jurisdictions, drivers must maintain an active SR-22 for a period of three to five years, during which there is zero tolerance for a lapse in coverage. In 2026, this system operates as a digital compliance bridge: If a policy lapses for even 24 hours, the insurer’s software is legally programmed to automatically file an SR-26 (Notice of Cancellation).This digital notification usually triggers an immediate, automated suspension of driving privileges by the DMV, resetting the "compliance clock" in many states. While the filing fee for the form itself is nominal—typically around $25—the true financial burden lies in the loss of "preferred" status. This forces drivers into expensive high-risk pools, where they must remain until they "age out" of the mandate by maintaining a perfect record.What about Nonowner Insurance?Drivers navigating the SR-22 system typically face two distinct paths:Owner-operator policy — required if the driver owns a registered vehicleNonowner liability policy — attaches the SR-22 filing specifically to the individual’s name.While both options fulfill the state's mandate, the nonowner path is frequently the most viable option for those looking to mitigate the high-risk "premium penalty."Because a nonowner policy only provides secondary liability coverage—and excludes expensive collision or comprehensive protections—it typically functions at a significantly lower price point than standard policies.However, there is a strict eligibility threshold: The driver cannot own a vehicle or have "regular access" to one in their household. For many drivers in 2026, this requirement is less restrictive than it initially appears. Amidst rising inflation and high interest rates, many have already liquidated automotive assets to cover legal or living expenses.Using a nonowner policy allows these individuals to "start the clock" on their three-year coverage requirement, ensuring they maintain a continuous insurance history without the monthly financial burden of vehicle maintenance and registration.The Borrowed Car RiskAs a nonowner with a reinstated license, you can drive occasionally (a friend's car, a rental, or a company vehicle). What happens if you’re involved in an accident while behind the wheel of a borrowed vehicle?The car owner’s insurance is the first to kick in, but if it doesn’t cover the full damages, then the nonowner SR-22 becomes the secondary layer of protection.Nonowner Insurance as a Strategy for RecoveryGetting labeled as a high-risk driver is stressful and financially draining. However, if you are already part of the SR-22 system, nonowner insurance is often the most cost-effective path toward full reinstatement.In 2026, a standard SR-22 policy for a vehicle owner can easily exceed $3,000 annually—a cost that jumps even higher if the driver is forced to maintain comprehensive and collision coverage for a financed car.By contrast, a nonowner policy typically hovers between $300 and $900 per year, or roughly $25 to $75 per month.This isn't just a budget-friendly alternative; it’s a strategic move to "start the clock" on the state’s mandatory filing period. By fulfilling this obligation early, drivers maintain a continuous coverage history and avoid the 20% to 30% penalty typically assessed for a gap in history.Navigating these specialized rates requires a targeted approach that allows drivers to compare high-risk pools and secure the mandated coverage needed to apply for a hardship license.This restricted permit is often the only way for drivers to maintain employment during a suspension, making the nonowner SR-22 a critical bridge back to financial independence.The Way UpUnforeseen legal and financial setbacks can disrupt even the most stable professional lives, but a suspended license does not have to be a permanent barrier to mobility. Navigating the path toward reinstatement is an exercise in incremental recovery, and choosing a nonowner SR-22 is often the first logistical win in that process.By prioritizing continuous coverage and utilizing specialized resources, drivers can secure the most competitive rates in a high-risk market that is often prone to predatory pricing. The goal is to move beyond the "high-risk" label as efficiently as possible. By starting the three-year compliance clock today and maintaining a flawless record, drivers protect their future insurability and ensure that when they are ready to return to the road as owner-operators, their financial foundation remains intact.This story was produced by SR22 Insurance and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	When is it time to consider respite care? When is it time to consider respite care?There is a growing recognition of the challenges faced by 53 million American family caregivers, with mental health issues being a top concern. Being a caregiver to a loved one is a rewarding but exhausting task. Respite care is one of the best resources that caregivers have for prioritizing their mental health, passions and relationships while still offering supportive care to individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions or age-related illness.This guide from Village Caregiving will unpack what respite care is, its benefits and how to tell if you need it.What Is Respite Care?Respite care is temporary care that lasts from a few hours a day to a few weeks. It’s designed to offer relief to primary caregivers and provide additional support when a patient’s needs temporarily increase. It allows caregivers to take breaks for mental health, run errands or attend to other responsibilities, while having peace of mind that their loved one is receiving the support and care they need.Respite care can take place in various settings, such as at home, an adult day care center or an assisted living facility. Home care is a popular option because it provides a familiar environment for the patient. Respite care services can include help with:Medication management.Household tasks like meal preparation and light cleaning.Transportation to and from medical appointments.Personal care tasks like dressing, toileting and bathing.It’s important to note that professionally trained caregivers can perform basic tasks, such as monitoring vital signs, but they can’t offer complex medical care.How Can Respite Care Benefit Family Caregivers? Village Caregiving Respite care offers primary caregivers a helping hand when their patient requires more support or the opportunity to take a break when needed, knowing their patient is still being looked after. This assistance provides caregivers with benefits that help them perform their duties more effectively:Improved Personal AffairsIt’s easy for family caregivers to neglect their own personal needs and relationships when taking on the responsibility of caring for someone else. That can lead to a decline in one’s well-being, feelings of loneliness and disappointment from loved ones.Respite care allows primary caregivers the opportunity to let go of the reins a bit, knowing an experienced and trustworthy professional is taking over in their stead. It’s a crucial service that helps caregivers maintain some balance within their personal lives and not feel like they’re letting someone down by not being available.Increased Time to Rest and RechargeFamily caregivers often reach a point where they need support in caring for their loved ones, as this can be a challenging and highly demanding responsibility. Respite care helps them avoid facing this task alone, offering a brief break essential to their well-being and mental health.Giving a caregiver time to rest and recharge can mean:More quality time with friends and family.Lower stress levels for the family and the caregiver, increasing patience levels in turn.A better relationship between the person being cared for and the caregiver.Improvements to the caregiver’s personal well-being.Increased levels of energy, feeling supported and resilience. Lowered Potential for Social IsolationIt can be easy for primary caregivers to feel isolated from their friends and family while juggling a career, family commitments and caring for a loved one, which often feels like a full-time job. It’s a common occurrence that can be managed with respite care, which gives caregivers the time they need to spend with loved ones. Taking this break supports mental well-being and reduces the likelihood of burnout or resentment toward their patient.Reduced Stress and PressureOver time, stress and pressure can build up between the caregiver and the person being cared for, straining their relationship. The caregiver may struggle to find a balance between the new commitments of caring for their loved one and those of their personal life, while the individual in care may start to feel guilty or like they’ve lost their independence.Respite care offers caregivers a chance to “recharge their batteries” and take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. This time away benefits both the caregiver and their patient, helping them provide the best possible care while improving their work-life balance.How Can Respite Care Help the Patient?The patient can experience similar issues to those of their caregiver, often feeling like they live in a bubble, interacting with the same person every day. Any negative feelings the caregiver may have, such as burnout or resentment, can directly affect the patient, making them feel guilty or altering the level of care they receive. Here are some ways respite care helps reduce these effects and benefits the patient:Provides new social interactions: Respite care offers the patient a chance to interact with someone new who might share their interests, encouraging them to participate in various activities and even make new friends. These opportunities boost the patient’s mood and help them combat isolation.Enhances routine and environment changes: Being stuck at home can start to feel boring, so a change of scenery often helps refresh the patient. It offers mental stimulation, adaptability, reduced stress or tension, the opportunity to try new things and a break from monotonous routines.Offers professional support and specialized care: Respite care providers are typically trained professionals with specialized expertise. They can provide specific therapies that the family caregiver may not be equipped to give, administer medications correctly and on time, and provide professional hygiene and grooming assistance that maintains dignity and comfort.Improves safety and well-being: Burnout and overwork can lead family caregivers to provide lower-quality care, increasing the risk of accidents and oversight. Respite care ensures patients receive continuous care and supervision, especially for those with complex needs like nutritional support, or safety concerns like cognitive impairment or being prone to falling or wandering off. Respite caregivers also encourage and guide patients through self-care activities.Types of Respite CareHere are some of the types of respite care: Village Caregiving Respite Care at HomeIn-home respite care provides patients with a professional yet familiar environment. It makes it easier for primary caregivers to care for their loved ones without transporting them elsewhere.Respite care at home enables a more personalized experience where the patient can stick to their typical routine, which can be especially important for people living with dementia. Research shows that in-home care can improve the communication of patients with dementia, highlighting the importance of the environment.Day Care CentersMany adult day care centers offer respite care, typically for set hours in the day. Patients receive a structured environment and more social interaction. Typically, there are also activities, mealtime and therapeutic services included. These centers allow family caregivers to rest and recharge, knowing their loved one is in a safe environment.Residential Respite CareThis type of care is provided in a residential environment, such as an assisted living community, a nursing home or a specialized group home. Residential respite care is a popular option for patients who require constant supervision and higher levels of care. It’s also a good choice for people who are relocating and want to temporarily move their loved one to a safer environment. However, residential respite care can be stressful for people with conditions like Alzheimer’s who don’t handle change well.Emergency Respite CareEmergency respite care is available to provide quick relief in urgent situations when family caregivers can’t care for their loved ones. The emergency respite caregiver can take over when the primary caregiver needs an immediate break. This service provides peace of mind during stressful times and is a crucial option for those who need fast, reliable care.Who Is Respite Care Best Suited For?Knowing when it’s time to consider respite care isn’t always easy. However, recognizing the signs of physical and emotional strain is vital for maintaining long-term caregiving capacity. If you feel constantly exhausted, overwhelmed or unable to manage stress, it may be time to consider respite care. Respite care is often best in the following scenarios:Increased Difficulty With Activities of Daily LivingWhen a loved one is experiencing increased difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs), it can be hard to handle the extra work. Respite care can help relieve you from some of the tasks and take the load off when you need help. Hiring a caregiver can also help you learn how to better assist your loved one with tasks like transferring them from a bed or chair.Inability to Stay AloneIf the individual is a potential danger to themselves when left alone, you might want to look into respite care if you need to leave the house. Even if you don’t plan on being gone for long, a person with cognitive impairments is at risk of wandering and endangering their safety and the house.A respite caregiver can give you peace of mind when no one is there to observe your loved one. Studies show that in-home respite caregiving services can help reduce security risk events for people living with dementia and improve caregivers’ quality of life.Social IsolationBoth the caregiver and care recipient can become socially isolated if they spend most of their time together alone. Family caregivers can miss out on social events and spending quality time with other family and friends. Patients may not interact with individuals other than the caregiver, leading to loneliness and a lack of socialization.Respite care can help patients socialize with another person in a safe environment, and primary caregivers can take a meaningful break to spend time with other people.When to Consider Respite CareFamily caregivers should consider short-term care options when they start experiencing burnout, depression or a lack of motivation. While occasional fatigue is common, it can lead to severe burnout when it becomes a regular occurrence. One study found that 33.35% of primary caregivers experienced depression, anxiety (35.25%) and burden (49.26%).These challenges are all influenced by a lack of support or time off. Juggling family responsibilities, friends, a full-time job and taking care of a loved one takes a toll on your mental health, making self-care all the more critical. Respite care provides that opportunity through temporary relief, giving family caregivers the chance to rejuvenate before they reach the point of depression, burnout, anxiety or burden.Here are some key signs that reveal when to consider respite care:Increased burnout and stress: This occurs when caregivers feel overwhelmed by the demands of caring for a loved one, which leads to physical, mental and emotional exhaustion. When they neglect their needs, they can experience health problems, anxiety and depression. If this stress becomes prolonged, it can negatively affect their well-being and the quality of care they provide.Declining well-being: If your well-being is being affected by exhaustion, depression, chronic health conditions and anxiety, it could weaken your resilience, making providing effective care and managing daily responsibilities more challenging.Reduced ability to manage daily responsibilities: When your patient’s needs become overwhelming, you may feel exhausted or unprepared. Juggling tasks like managing household duties, administering medication and assisting with personal care becomes more difficult as this fatigue and stress build up. It can result in you feeling frustrated, making mistakes or missing appointments, which negatively impacts both your and your patient’s quality of life.Declining health: If you continue to go without sleep, experience stress and neglect your needs, your mental and physical health can take severe strain, ultimately leading to chronic health conditions. These can include high blood pressure, weakened immune function and depression or anxiety, which all make it difficult to care for your loved one effectively, creating a negative cycle for you both.Reduced family or work-life balance: Juggling family commitments, caregiving and work deadlines can leave you feeling exhausted, stressed and stretched thin. It also leaves little to no time for relaxation or self-care, creating an imbalance that increases frustration or guilt and negatively affects your job performance and relationships.Evaluating Care NeedsWhen determining whether respite care is the right choice, assess the current level of care your loved one requires. Consider if they need help bathing, dressing or eating. Maybe they have cognitive or mobility issues that require constant supervision. While evaluating your loved one’s needs, look at how caregiving responsibilities affect your well-being. Think about whether you are struggling to coordinate care with other family members or if the intensity of care has increased beyond what you can manage alone.Considering these factors can help identify the right type of respite care, whether it’s occasional support to provide companionship or more intensive care for seniors with complex needs. An honest look at both the recipient’s needs and your own can clarify when and how you might benefit from respite care services.Exploring Respite Care ServicesThere are various types of respite care services to suit different situations. These services can be provided in-home, at a specialized care facility or through adult day centers. In-home respite care is popular since it offers personalized support in the comfort of the senior’s home. Respite care can include help with daily tasks, companionship or other errands. Having a professional caregiver step in ensures continuity of care and gives primary caregivers peace of mind to rest and focus on their own well-being.Seek Respite Care to Prevent BurnoutRespite care provides temporary relief to primary caregivers and ensures that care recipients continue to receive the support they need. It’s important not to neglect your other interests and social life.If you are experiencing caregiver burnout or just want time for yourself, respite care can offer you a well-deserved break, so you can return refreshed and leave your loved one in the hands of a professional caregiver.This story was produced by Village Caregiving and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Violins of Hope concert will feature ATLYS String Quartet at Augustana, Rock Island Violins of Hope Iowa will host the female-powered string quartet performance by ATLYS at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 1, at the Augustana College Wallenburg Hall in the Denkmann Memorial Building, Rock Island. The quartet will play instruments from the Violins of Hope Project. The concert is free. Violins of Hope Iowa is bringing a powerful international [...]
	What to do when you max out your credit card What to do when you max out your credit cardMaxing out a credit card can lead to financial distress if not handled correctly. It can also signal budgeting issues or deeper financial wellness concerns like overspending.This is a growing reality for many, as recent data from Debt.com shows that 32% of Americans have maxed out a credit card due to inflation and rising costs, with 11% of all accounts currently showing utilization rates over 80%.Accredited Debt Relief explains what happens when you max out a card and provides a practical roadmap for regaining control of your debt.What is a maxed-out credit card?Maxing out your credit card means you’ve reached or exceeded all its available credit. When you max out a card, you can’t spend any more on that card until you make a payment to reduce the balance.People max out their cards for different reasons. Sometimes it’s intentional — you need the funds for a large or urgent purchase. Other times, it happens gradually, especially if you lose track of your remaining balance or rely on the card for daily spending.Common Reasons People Max Out a Credit CardLarge, intentional expensesMedical emergenciesEmergency car or home repairsMoving expensesVacation expenseWeddings or other eventsTravel for family or urgent situationsGradual balance buildupJob loss or reduced incomeRelying on credit for everyday expensesBudgeting challengesRising costs outpacing incomeIf you’ve maxed out your credit card and can afford to pay down the balance, you’ll want to do that as soon as possible. If you can’t, you’ll want to follow the tips in this blog to get things under control.The Financial Consequences of Reaching Your Credit LimitWhile policies vary by issuer, maxing out a credit card can have both immediate and longer-term financial repercussions.Declined Transactions: Once a card reaches its credit limit, additional charges may be declined unless the issuer permits over-limit transactions. This can disrupt any automatic payments linked to that card and lead to a chain reaction of late payment and fees.Higher Minimum Payments: As balances increase, required minimum monthly payments typically rise. This can strain household cash flow and make it harder to manage other expenses.Increased Interest Charges: Carrying a maximum balance results in substantial interest costs, slowing progress toward paying down the principal. If your maxed-out balance has a 20% APR or higher, the impact can be severe.When you’re only making the minimum payment on a maxed-out card with a high interest rate, most of that payment often goes toward interest—not the principal. That means your balance barely shrinks, even though you’re paying every month.Penalty Fees: Some issuers may charge over-limit fees if transactions are approved beyond the credit limit, though many no longer do. Terms vary by card agreement.Credit Score Impact: Credit utilization (the ratio of balance to credit limit) is a major factor in credit scoring models. Utilization above 30% is generally considered unfavorable, and maxing out a card can significantly lower a credit score if you do not pay down the balance before it shows up in the next reporting cycle.Reduced Borrowing Power: High utilization may make it more difficult to qualify for new credit or secure favorable interest rates.Possible Issuer Action: In some cases, credit card issuers may reduce a cardholder’s limit or close an account if they determine the borrower to be an increased risk, which can further affect credit scores.What to Do When Your Credit is Maxed OutIf you experience difficulty paying down a maxed-out credit card, it can create a domino effect that can derail your finances. If you feel that a maxed-out card is causing you financial distress, follow these tips.Create a Budget and Reduce Your SpendingOnce you’ve maxed out a credit line, you may realize that your new minimum payment is more than you can afford. Even if the payment is still affordable, you’ll want to update your budget and make adjustments to your spending as needed.Make a Repayment PlanIf you can’t pay down the credit card in a lump sum, you’ll probably want to plan on paying more than the minimum payment to get the balance down. This is especially important if your credit utilization is above 40% or the interest rate is very high.Do Not Take on New DebtTaking on new debt like credit cards, store cards, personal loans, mortgage payments, and car loans may not be a good idea if you are overwhelmed with your current debt. Focus instead on your repayment plan and sticking to a budget.Explore Debt Consolidation OptionsIf you are struggling to manage your debt, you may want to consider all of your debt consolidation options. Some options, like a balance transfer or a debt consolidation loan, work best if your credit is still in good shape, while working with a debt relief company may be a better option for those struggling with poor credit or who want to pay down their debt in 24-48 months.Debt Consolidation Options for a Maxed-Out Credit CardBalance TransferDebt Consolidation LoanWorking with a Debt Relief CompanyLook for New Sources of IncomeSecuring new or higher-paying employment is a great way to get your debt under control. If you are happy with your current job, but still need extra income, you may want to consider a part-time job or freelance work to help you pay down your debt.Working a few extra hours in the evenings or on the weekends, so that you can pay more than your minimum payment, may help you pay down your debt faster.This story was produced by Accredited Debt Relief and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Visual equity in e-commerce: How modeling brands use consistent imagery to reduce returns Visual equity in e-commerce: How modeling brands use consistent imagery to reduce returnsThe math behind e-commerce returns is officially reaching a breaking point in 2026. While offering free, frictionless returns is still the "holy grail" for conversion—cited as a nonnegotiable by 82% of shoppers in the latest National Retail Federation data—the operational costs are quietly gutting profit margins.According to the 2025 Retail Returns Landscape report, online returns have climbed to nearly 19.3% of total sales, leaving roughly 1 in 5 merchants effectively overwhelmed by the logistics of reverse commerce and the rising tide of return fraud.But labeling returns as a "logistics problem" ignores the root cause. Most merchants treat returns as an inevitable cost of doing business, yet the data shows a significant portion of these losses are preventable. Beyond damaged goods or shipping delays, the single most influential factor in the return cycle is the product image. For fashion and lifestyle brands, high-quality imagery is no longer just a marketing asset; it is a defensive strategy designed to align customer expectations with reality before the "Add to Cart" button is ever clicked.Below, SJOLIE explores how visual consistency in product imagery can help reduce return rates. SJOLIE Product Imagery: The Science of Expectation AlignmentOnline storefronts operate at a significant sensory deficit compared to brick-and-mortar retail; they cannot offer the weight of a fabric or the true drape of a silhouette. To bridge this gap, brands rely on a precise mix of lighting and visual consistency to help customers "mentalize" the product.It is essentially a contract: The image sets the expectation, and the product must fulfill it. When that contract is broken by inconsistent or low-quality visuals, the customer feels misled, and a return is almost inevitable. This explains why “product not as described or pictured” remains the most cited reason for returns in 2026.What’s often overlooked is that this mismatch is rarely an intentional bait-and-switch. It is usually the result of "technical drift"—varying camera angles, inconsistent lighting setups, or aggressive editing styles that distort a product's online twin. When a brand cycles through multiple studios without rigid visual guidelines, a navy dress can shift from charcoal in one shot to electric blue in the next.This lack of uniformity drives "bracketing," a behavior where shoppers order three sizes or colors with the specific intent of returning two. By standardizing the visual environment, brands aren't just making their site look better; they are actively lowering the incentive for customers to over-order.How Modeling Brands Maintain ConsistencyTop-tier retailers like Zara, Revolve, and ASOS have effectively industrialized the photoshoot. They operate on a system where every variable—from lighting rig intensity to model positioning—is predetermined before a single frame is shot.This isn't just about aesthetics; it is a strategy to ensure "visual equity." When every photo on a grid maintains the same exposure and color balance, textures are presented more realistically, and the shopper's "user experience" remains harmonious.But it’s not just about the lights. The model is also an important part of product presentation.The Human CanvasWhile lighting is vital, the "human canvas" presents the greatest challenge for visual consistency. Apparel requires the drape and movement of a real person to appear natural, but human skin tone and texture are inherently varied and react differently to studio strobes.Many brands attempt to fix these discrepancies in post-production, but excessive filtering and multiple editors often lead to "image drift," where the garment's color is unintentionally altered along with the model’s skin. The industry solution is to achieve uniformity before the shoot. This is where professional-grade protocols become essential.High-end brands frequently utilize certified sunless tanning protocols to prep models. By using professional-grade, high-definition-ready solutions, studios can maintain a consistent skin tone across multiday shoots and diverse model rosters. This eliminates the need for aggressive color correction in editing, ensuring that the dress the customer sees on the screen is a 1:1 color match to the one that arrives in the mail.Fixed Focal LengthsConsistency also extends to the hardware. To prevent the "funhouse mirror" effect that leads to returns, top-tier brands use a strict formula for lenses and angles. Most professional e-commerce studios rely exclusively on prime lenses—specifically 50mm or 85mm focal lengths.The 50mm lens is the industry standard because its perspective closely mimics human ocular perception, providing the most "honest" view of a garment’s silhouette. Wide-angle lenses (anything under 35mm) are strictly avoided for product pages because they distort the proportions of the clothing, leading to the dreaded "fit not as expected" return.The Get it Right in Camera (GIRIC) PrincipleStandardizing every variable—from the light rig to the focal length—leads to the fundamental philosophy of modern e-commerce: the Get It Right In Camera (GIRIC) principle. In the high-speed fashion industry of 2026, these preparations are no longer considered "extra"; they are a mandatory method for minimizing post-production bloat.Beyond the obvious labor expense, heavy retouching is a primary driver of return rates because it often disrupts color consistency and alters the visual reality of the product. When you rely on "fixing it in post," you introduce human error. Five different editors might produce five slightly different shades of the same product. By contrast, a GIRIC-focused shoot ensures the "digital twin" is accurate before the SD card is even pulled.This principle applies even to brands that don't utilize a "human canvas." Whether you are shooting natural-fiber tote bags or electronics, the prep phase—the lighting, the product positioning, and the background—functions as the "source of truth." It ensures that the consumer receives exactly what they saw on the screen, protecting the brand from the high costs of reverse logistics.Visual Equity as a Competitive AdvantageIn a saturated market, visual equity is a trust signal. Brands that can promise and deliver visual 1:1 accuracy are the ones shoppers return to. Whether you’re selling apparel or cute tote bags, the principle of image consistency will serve your brand well.This story was produced by SJOLIE and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Advanced components for everyday appliances: LG Electronics' core technologies take center stage at AHR Expo 2026 (BPT) - Every year, AHR Expo brings together the biggest names in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to showcase their latest innovations and discuss topics of key importance for the industry, from new and emerging trends to current challenges and future direction. AHR Expo 2026, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, this February, centered on the themes of energy efficiency, sustainability, and system-level innovation — three areas of focus that are helping to shape the global HVAC landscape.A regular exhibitor at AHR Expo and a company at the forefront of HVAC innovation, LG Electronics Inc. (LG) presented its core component technologies and shared its broader technology direction with event attendees, reinforcing its commitment to creating high-quality solutions for a better tomorrow. Why Components MatterLG's exhibit focused primarily on the role of core technologies: essential components that determine the performance, efficiency, and reliability of the products they are deployed in. John Kim, vice president and head of the Component Solution Sales & Marketing Division at LG Home Appliance Solution Company, emphasized that the performance of everyday appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and dryers, begins with the quality of the core tech inside them."Strong component technology is essential to enhancing the performance and reliability of finished products, which ultimately leads to better quality and user experiences," he explained.Kim added that LG's advances in component technology are complemented and reinforced by its innovation in product design — a virtuous cycle that has given rise to continuous improvement across the company's solutions portfolio. The momentum generated by this has also enabled LG to significantly expand its component solutions business, which has grown rapidly since 2019, particularly in North America.With a broad range of residential and commercial solutions leveraging its cutting-edge component tech — such as compressors, EC motors, EC fans, and drives — LG possesses an unmatched ability to respond proactively to the evolving needs of the HVAC market. Moreover, the company continues to strengthen its status as a total solutions provider. Heat Pumps and the Compressor at the Core LG's booth at AHR Expo 2026 also featured technologies such as heat pumps and compressors — essential elements that form 'the heart' of the company's HVAC systems. In the U.S., rising energy prices are driving growing interest in heat pumps, which provide an effective way for businesses and homeowners to help reduce energy consumption. Viewed as a critical transition technology across both residential and commercial markets, heat pumps are helping to lower global dependence on fossil fuel-based and electric resistance heating systems.For any heat pump, the compressor is a critical factor in determining performance, both in terms of power and energy efficiency. Jerry Edwards, head of Sales Engineering for LG Component Solution, notes that one of the biggest challenges for heat pump systems is maintaining reliable heating performance in low outdoor temperatures. To address this, LG has applied its variable-speed compressor designs and vapor injection technology — a pairing that enables efficiency and sufficient heating capacity even in bitterly cold environments. These innovative compressor technologies, verified for their robust performance and stability under real operating conditions, are major contributors to the overall competitiveness of LG's heat pump systems.Industry Perspectives on AHR Expo 2026 and LG's Component Solution Akane Ka from JARN magazine, a renowned HVAC industry publication headquartered in Japan, attended LG's exhibition at AHR Expo 2026. Impressed by LG's latest technologies, and its approach to presenting them, she described the company as "very energetic and dynamic."Ka also highlighted that LG's compressor and motor technologies are employed not only in HVAC solutions, but in a wide range of everyday appliances, including refrigerators and washing machines. This breadth of application speaks to LG's technological competitiveness across product categories and markets, and to its ability to bring value to almost every aspect of daily life.She went on to note LG's effective use of internal synergies to create innovative products for customers worldwide, adding that LG is well positioned to meet the growing demand for energy-efficient products. LG's Commitment to Elevating Appliance Quality Through Core TechnologiesAt AHR Expo 2026, LG put the spotlight on how crucial core technologies are to ensuring the quality, efficiency, and longevity of everyday appliances. Looking ahead, LG will continue evolving and refining its key component technologies in tandem with its differentiated product designs and features, delivering solutions that prioritize sustainability without compromising performance of usability.
	Greetings from Jordan's Wadi Rum desert, where patches of green emerge after winter rains Wadi Rum's otherworldly landscape is where Star Wars movies and The Martian were filmed. In late winter, plants emerge in this desert — but some are toxic to camels, so their herders must protect them.
	What to know about hair loss on weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy What to know about hair loss on weight loss medications like Ozempic and WegovyA few months into GLP-1 treatment, many patients encounter an unexpected and distressing side effect: significant hair loss. While alarming, medical experts say this shedding is typically temporary and linked to rapid weight loss rather than the medications themselves.“One of the most distressing things patients tell me when they’re a few months into GLP-1 treatment isn’t about nausea or fatigue. It’s ‘I’m losing my hair,’” says Dr. Jessica Duncan, a board-certified obesity medicine physician and Medical Director at Ivim Health. “And I get it. You’re finally making progress on something you’ve struggled with for years, and now you’re watching more hair than usual collect in your brush every morning.”Understanding telogen effluviumThe hair loss associated with GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is typically due to a condition called telogen effluvium—a temporary shedding triggered by physical stress on the body, Ivim Health reports.Under normal conditions, approximately 85-90% of hair follicles are in an active growth phase while 10-15% rest in a dormant phase. When the body experiences significant stress—whether from surgery, illness, or rapid weight loss—more follicles shift into the resting phase simultaneously. Two to three months later, these hairs shed at once.Research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that telogen effluvium can occur after any significant physiological stressor, including rapid weight loss of 10 pounds or more. A 2020 study in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual identified nutritional deficiencies and rapid weight changes as leading causes.Data from the American Hair Loss Association indicates telogen effluvium is almost always reversible, with hair returning to normal growth patterns once the triggering stressor resolves or the body adapts.The real culprit: rapid weight loss, not the drugsHair loss isn’t listed among common side effects in clinical trials for semaglutide or tirzepatide. Medical experts point instead to the rapid weight loss these medications facilitate.A study in Obesity Surgery examining post-bariatric surgery patients found that 57% experienced telogen effluvium, with rapid weight reduction and inadequate protein intake as primary factors.“When patients have a significantly reduced caloric intake, they may not be getting enough of the nutrients they need, especially protein, iron, biotin, zinc, and essential fatty acids,” Dr. Duncan explains. “Your body is in rapid change mode. Hair growth isn’t a priority when you’re in a calorie deficit and potentially not meeting basic nutritional needs.”Key nutrients often deficient during GLP-1 treatment include:Protein: Essential for hair structure (60-80g daily recommended)Iron: Low ferritin levels correlate with hair thinningBiotin and zinc: Support healthy hair growthEssential fatty acids: Important for scalp healthWhen hair loss begins and how long it lastsPatients typically notice increased shedding two to six months after starting GLP-1 therapy or after periods of rapid weight loss. This timing aligns with the hair growth cycle—the hair shedding at any given moment was predetermined to fall out based on what occurred months earlier.The shedding phase usually lasts several months but typically resolves within three to six months once weight stabilizes, even if patients continue taking the medication.“The hair you’re losing now was already predetermined to shed based on what happened months ago,” Dr. Duncan says. “Stopping the medication won’t immediately stop the shedding, and continuing it won’t necessarily make it worse as long as you’re addressing the nutritional factors.”Patient experienceThat’s exactly what happened with Bonnie, a patient at Ivim Health, a physician-led virtual obesity medicine practice delivering individualized GLP-1 treatment: “I first noticed hair loss when I was brushing or washing my hair. Of course, I was alarmed and immediately reached out to my care provider for guidance. They reassured me that this is a normal occurrence due to rapid weight loss, and advised me to up my protein. I also started taking a hair growth supplement. Between the two my hair loss has slowed down dramatically.”Other causes to rule outWhile telogen effluvium is temporary, medical providers recommend evaluating patients for other potential causes of hair loss:Thyroid dysfunction (both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism)Iron deficiency anemiaHormonal changes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)Chronic stress or recent illnessOther medications in which hair loss is a side effect“If you’re experiencing hair loss with other symptoms—extreme fatigue, cold intolerance, changes in your menstrual cycle, or if the shedding continues beyond a few months—see your doctor,” Dr. Duncan advises. “You’ll want to make sure to rule out other causes.”Managing GLP-1-associated hair lossMedical experts recommend several strategies to minimize and manage hair shedding during GLP-1 treatment:Nutritional support: Prioritizing protein at every meal is critical. Even with reduced appetite, aim for proteins like Greek yogurt, eggs, or lean meat at each meal. A multivitamin containing iron, biotin, and zinc may provide additional support, though patients should consult healthcare providers before starting a supplement.“High-quality protein matters most,” Dr. Duncan emphasizes. “Make it non-negotiable at every meal.”Gentle hair care: Avoiding tight hairstyles, excessive heat styling, and harsh chemical treatments during shedding phases can minimize additional stress on hair. Use wide-tooth combs and be patient during this phase.Paced weight loss: Research suggests that losing one to two pounds per week is generally better tolerated than more rapid loss. Working with a healthcare provider to find the right medication dose for sustainable results may help minimize hair shedding.Medication continuation: Experts generally don’t recommend stopping GLP-1 medications due to hair loss, as the shedding won’t stop immediately—the hair currently falling out was already predetermined to shed months earlier. But if continuing medication, addressing factors like nutrition, sleep, and stress will be key.What patients should knowHair loss associated with GLP-1 medications is typically temporary and resolves within three to six months. Clinical evidence points to rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies rather than the medications themselves as the primary cause.“In my practice, patients who maintain adequate nutrition and give their bodies time to adjust slowly to weight loss almost always experience less hair shedding or a quicker return to normal,” Dr. Duncan says. “If you’re experiencing significant shedding, you should talk to your provider. But most people don’t need to abandon treatment that’s working for them.”With proper nutritional support and time for the body to adjust, hair typically returns to normal growth patterns, even with continued GLP-1 therapy. The key is supporting the body through the transition rather than viewing hair loss as a permanent side effect.This story was produced by Ivim Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What to do if a debt collector calls you for someone else's debt What to do if a debt collector calls you for someone else's debtWhen a person owes money and doesn’t pay, it’s not unusual for debt collectors to get involved. It’s also not unusual for collection agencies to resort to aggressive tactics to get people to pay their debts.But what if you’re being contacted by a debt collector for a debt that isn’t yours? It could be that you have a similar name to the actual person who owes the money, and the debt collector is confused. Or it could be that a family member of yours owes the debt, and the debt collector is trying to pressure you into getting them to pay. Any number of situations could lead to you being contacted for a debt that isn’t yours.It’s important to know your rights when a debt collector reaches out to you. Freedom Debt Relief explains how to handle this type of situation.Key Takeaways:A debt collector might contact you for a debt you do not owe.Make sure you know your rights in this situation, and be clear that they have the wrong person.Keep a record of all communications in case you need to file a complaint or take legal action.Make It Clear That They Have the Wrong PersonIf your name is similar to that of someone whose debt has landed in collections, a debt collector might contact you accidentally. If that's the case, make it clear that the debt in question is not yours. You should also state that you have no knowledge of the debt or the person whose debt it is.Keep in mind that if a debt collector has the wrong person, the burden is not on you to prove that you don’t owe the money. You are not required to provide a debt collector with personal details such as your address or Social Security number.In fact, you shouldn’t provide a debt collector with this information because sometimes, scammers can pose as debt collectors in an attempt to obtain your personal data.If the debt collector continues to call you despite having been told that the debt is not yours, send them a letter by certified mail demanding that they stop communicating with you regarding the debt. If they don't comply, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC).You might also, depending on the situation, need to seek the help of an attorney if the calls don't stop.Know Your Rights Under the FDCPAThe Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a set of rules that dictates what debt collectors can and cannot do.Debt collectors are allowed to try to locate debt holders by reaching out to known associates, such as family members. If you have a family member who owes money, a debt collector is legally allowed to ask you for their address, phone number, and where they work. They can ask, but you don’t have to answer. You are not obligated to share any details about that person, even if you know them.Also, debt collectors are not allowed to discuss somebody else's debt with you. They also generally can't call you more than once to track down somebody you know who holds the debt.If you continue to receive calls about someone else’s debt when it’s been made clear to the debt collector that you’re not the debt holder, you can report them to the CFPB and FTC. In an extreme case, you could contact an attorney if you feel you’re being harassed.Keep Detailed Records of All CommunicationsIf a debt collector calls you for a debt you don't owe, in some cases, explaining that they have the wrong person will put the matter to rest. If it doesn't, make sure to keep a detailed record of all communications with the debt collector so you're able to file an accurate complaint and/or pursue legal action if necessary.That record should include:The date and time of each callThe incoming phone numberThe number the debt collector contacts you atThe name of the debt collection representative, if it's provided to youThe nature of the call (meaning, what the debt collector says and what you say in return)Also, keep any written communication you receive from a debt collector, as well as a record of any communication you send them via mail (like a letter demanding that they stop contacting you).Understand Your Rights if You're Contacted About a Deceased Family Member's DebtIt may be that you're being contacted by a debt collector because a parent of yours has passed before paying off their debt, and you're the next of kin. Generally speaking, you're not responsible for paying a parent or family member's debt unless you co-signed an agreement.For example, if you cosign a personal loan for a parent or the two of you submitted a joint application, and they pass away, you are generally responsible for the balance. If the loan was in their name only, you are not personally responsible for it.That said, when a person passes away, their remaining debts become part of their estate. Whoever administers the estate is required to pay off debts before assets can be distributed.In other words, let’s say your mom passes away and leaves a $500,000 home, a $100,000 mortgage, and $50,000 worth of various debts. The estate would need to repay the $150,000 in debt before giving the heirs money from the sale of the home.If you're not the executor or administrator of the estate, you want to make a note of the details of the debt and inform the executor or administrator so they're aware of it.If you're the person administering the estate, it's a good idea to consult with an attorney if you receive a call from a debt collector about money that's owed.Know How to Handle Debt CollectionsIt’s important to know what rights you have as a consumer if you’re contacted by debt collectors—whether by mistake or due to a debt you did incur. While it’s not so uncommon to be contacted about somebody else’s debt, know that you do not have to put up with repeated collection calls. If a debt collector doesn’t leave you alone, you shouldn’t hesitate to take appropriate action.Frequently Asked QuestionsHow can debt collectors contact you?Debt collectors can call you between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. unless you allow them to call you at other times. However, they are not allowed to harass you. If you’re getting multiple calls each day, or if you are getting threatening calls, tell the debt collector you know your rights, and report the collector to your state’s attorney general.How can I file a complaint against a debt collector?You can contact the debt collector and ask them to stop, or you can sue them. You can also submit a complaint with the CFPB or contact your state’s attorney general.What is the difference between FCRA and FDCPA?It’s the difference between fair credit reporting and legal debt collection.The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is designed to ensure fairness in credit reporting. Under the FCRA, you have the right to dispute inaccurate or erroneous information in your credit reports.The Federal Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) deals with debt collections and what debt collectors are allowed to do when contacting you.This story was produced by Freedom Debt Relief and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	St. Patrick’s Day recipes with a twist St. Patrick’s Day recipes with a twistMany Irish and non-Irish Americans celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a meal that includes the key ingredients of corned beef, potatoes, and cabbage. Traditional Irish dishes like colcannon and shepherd’s pie, and Irish American dishes like corned beef hash, are also consumed on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s time to give these entrees a modern-day update. Celebrate Irish American culture by preparing these recipes rooted in tradition, but with an added twist — and don’t forget the drink pairings that go with them, too. Wildfire Outdoor Living Corned Beef Hash Breakfast BurritoUnlike shepherd’s pie and colcannon, corned beef and corned beef hash originated not from Ireland, but here in America. Irish immigrants who came here in the 19th century utilized corned beef from the kosher butchers from the neighboring Jewish population, who made the tender corned beef from brisket. Soon enough, a practical meal combining chopped and fried household leftovers like corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and onions birthed corned beef hash. Honor the traditional corned beef hash by updating it into a delicious medley of flavors, a true breakfast of champions dish with this corned beef hash breakfast burrito.Prep time: 15 minutesCook time: 20 minutesServings: 2-3Ingredients1 lb. corned beef, medium diced1 lb. potatoes, diced2 large eggs1 tbsp olive oil½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded1 onion, chopped1 green pepper, choppedBurrito-sized tortillasInstructionsHeat up a griddle to 375 degrees.Add the olive oil to the pan, then add the onions, peppers, and potatoes.Once the potatoes are crispy, add in the chopped corned beef, and cook until the corned beef is slightly brown.Beat eggs and add to the corned beef and vegetables. Scramble until cooked through.Place tortillas on a flat surface, spoon ¼ of the mixture onto it, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and wrap tightly.Serve with sour cream, salsa, or any dip you want.Pair your corned beef hash breakfast burrito with Irish coffee. Simply combine hot coffee with two shots of your favorite Irish whiskey, and top with whipped cream. Wildfire Outdoor Living Loaded ColcannonThe term “colcannon” originates from the term “white-headed cabbage” and was a traditional Irish staple food, so much so that at one point, one third of the population was eating it, according to the Smithsonian Magazine. The dish is traditional and simple, but simultaneously hearty and delicious, the publication describes it as a side dish of mashed potatoes mixed with garden-grown kale or cabbage. This St. Patrick’s Day, try the loaded colcannon recipe, with enhancements like bacon, green onions, and cheddar cheese, that will brighten up this tried-and-true Irish favorite.Prep time: 5 minutesCook time: 40 minutesServings: 2-3Ingredients3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes5 strips bacon, diced2 cups cabbage, shredded½ cup butter½ cup heavy cream½ cup of whole milk4 green onions, sliced½ cup cheddar cheese, shreddedSalt and pepper to tasteInstructionsHeat up your griddle to 375 degrees.Fry bacon; when crispy, remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.Add shredded cabbage on top of the bacon grease. Sauté until soft, less than 10 minutes.Add water and salt to taste in a large pot, boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then strain.Add the potatoes back into the pot with butter, heavy cream, and milk, and mash together.Add cabbage, bacon, green onion, and cheddar cheese, stirring to combine.Add salt and pepper to taste.Pair with your favorite Irish beer. Add green food coloring for fun. Wildfire Outdoor Living Shepherd’s Pie Potato SkinsShepherd’s pie started as “cottage pie,” a hearty meal of leftover vegetables (carrots, peas, onions) mixed into a pie by local Irish shepherds, who resided in cottages. The topping of potatoes was introduced later when potatoes came to Ireland, to make it heartier. Though the original recipe calls for lamb or mutton, today, the recipe has evolved to include other varieties of meat, including beef. To modernize this favorite Irish dish, skip the flaky pastry crust and use potato skins instead with this shepherd’s pie potato skins recipe.Prep time: 45 minutesCook time: 60 minutesServings: 2-3IngredientsPotato Boats and Mashed Potatoes5 Russet potatoes1 cup milk2 tbsp butterSalt, pepper, and garlic powder to tasteFilling1 lb ground beef1 tbsp olive oil1 onion, small diced2 cloves garlic, minced1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables2 tbsp flour1 cup beef broth1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce2 tbsp tomato pasteSalt and pepper to tasteInstructionsPrepare the Potatoes and MashCook the potatoes over indirect heat at 400 degrees for 60 minutes, or until fork-tender, on the grill.Cut off the tops and scoop out the flesh using a spoon, leaving the skins intact.Place the potato flesh in a bowl. Add milk, butter, and salt, and mash until smooth.Beef FillingHeat the olive oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat on your grill.Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.Add garlic, sauté for an additional 30 seconds or until fragrantAdd ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through.Add flour and stir until combined.Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine until thick and glossy.Remove from heat.Assemble PotatoesHeap each potato with meat filling.Spoon mashed potatoes on top.Place in a skillet and cook on indirect heat at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.Pair with your favorite Irish dry stout, like Guinness.This story was produced by Wildfire Outdoor Living and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	GDPR compliance for startups: What every founder should know GDPR compliance for startups: What every founder should knowThe General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is the EU’s landmark law for data security and privacy, and is mandatory for any organization that processes the data of individuals within the EU.While GDPR compliance is a legal requirement, the framework also serves as a benchmark for ethical and transparent data management. For growing startups, aligning with the GDPR boosts credibility early on and signals to customers and investors that privacy and trust are critical to the organization.In this GDPR compliance guide for startups, Vanta will cover:Benefits of aligning with the frameworkA step-by-step process for achieving GDPR compliance as a startupNote: This guide primarily addresses the EU GDPR, since the UK GDPR is a separate legal framework post-Brexit. While the two regulations still share many similarities, the enforcement of the UK GDPR is handled independently by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).‍What is the GDPR?The GDPR is an EU regulation enacted in 2018 that defines how organizations should collect, process, store, and use the personal data of individuals within the EU or European Economic Area (EEA). The regulation has two main goals:Safeguarding data privacy and securityGiving individuals greater rights over their personal informationThe GDPR holds organizations accountable for securing, justifying, and documenting how they process personal data. Still, unlike some other compliance frameworks, such as ISO 27701 or SOC 2, the GDPR doesn’t offer certification or allow for self-attestation. Instead, organizations are expected to align their internal practices with GDPR requirements and be prepared to demonstrate compliance to regulators or clients when asked.Violations can result in fines of up to €20 million, or up to 4% of the global annual turnover (whichever is higher). For the UK GDPR, the higher maximum amount is £17.5 million or 4% of the total annual worldwide turnover. Supervisory GDPR authorities can also impose corrective actions, including temporary or permanent bans on data processing activities.If your startup also targets or collects data from individuals in the United Kingdom, you must comply with the UK GDPR, a nearly identical version of the EU regulation that applies post-Brexit.Importance of GDPR compliance for startupsIn the early stages of growth, it can be tempting for startups to put GDPR on the back burner. However, limited resources or competing priorities shouldn’t delay compliance for several reasons.First of all, regulators can impose corrective actions that can disrupt operations at a critical scaling phase, while hefty financial penalties can be devastating to a startup’s cash flow.Besides the financial hit, non-compliance can cause lasting reputational harm—a serious setback for an emerging company still working to earn the trust of customers, partners, and investors.By demonstrating adherence to one of the world’s strictest data protection frameworks, startups signal maturity and responsibility, laying the groundwork for sustainable expansion into international markets.Because the GDPR is consistently updated to address emerging cybersecurity threats, maintaining GDPR compliance ensures your startup stays prepared, adaptable, and resilient in an increasingly data-driven market.8 steps to GDPR compliance as a startupAchieving GDPR compliance as a startup can seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into clear, structured steps can make the process manageable. Here are the essential actions you should take:Understand your role under the GDPRMap the personal data you collectEstablish a lawful basisCompare your existing practices to a list of GDPR requirementsUpdate your privacy policies and proceduresEstablish data subject rights workflowsTrain stakeholdersMaintain thorough documentationStep 1: Understand your role under the GDPRThe first step toward GDPR compliance as a startup is to clearly define your role in data processing. In-scope organizations can fall into one of the two categories:Controllers: Decide how and why personal data is processedProcessors: Handle data on behalf of controllersThis distinction is crucial because each role carries different obligations. Controllers hold the primary responsibility for ensuring compliance with the GDPR. They need to establish a lawful basis for data processing, respond to data subject requests, and report breaches, among other duties.On the other hand, processors must implement appropriate security measures, keep records of processing activities, and assist the controller with compliance efforts when necessary.Step 2: Map the personal data you collectThe next step is categorizing all personal data you collect and mapping how it moves through your systems. This includes identifying where the data comes from, how it’s stored, and why it’s used.Pay special attention to sensitive categories of personal data, such as health or biometric information, since they require additional safeguards and stricter handling procedures.Mapping your data also allows you to track who can access sensitive information, which helps establish clear accountability. The output of your data mapping exercise can also serve as the foundation for your Record of Processing Activities (RoPA), which is mandatory under Article 30 of the GDPR.To make the mapping process efficient, consider the following best practices:Prioritize core data flows: Focus on the data most essential to your operations.Choose scalable tools: Use a top-rated compliance management software that grows with your business.Assign clear ownership: Decide who is responsible for managing and protecting specific data categories.Automate where possible: Leverage automation to track and document data flows.‍Integrate into existing processes: Embed data-mapping practices into your everyday workflows.“For lean startups, try to keep data mapping practical, not academic,” says Evan RowseGRC subject matter expert at Vanta “Start with the flows that actually drive your business, use tools that won’t add friction, and revisit when your product or vendors change. That’s how you avoid turning mapping into busywork.”Step 3: Establish a lawful basisUnder the GDPR, you can’t process personal information of individuals in the EU without a valid reason, also known as a lawful basis.GDPR recognizes six types of lawful bases for data processing: Vanta To make this step more practical, focus on the most common processing activities relevant to your business, such as user sign-ups, newsletter subscriptions, or beta testing, and determine the lawful basis for each. This approach saves time and effort compared to mapping every possible data flow upfront. Each processing activity must have a single lawful basis identified and documented; you can’t rely on multiple bases for the same purpose.“For startups, consent and contract are common lawful bases,” Rowse says. “Consent fuels growth activities like marketing, while a contract underpins the core services you deliver. Together, they cover many of the data uses that matter in the early stages.”Step 4: Compare your existing practices to GDPR requirementsTo identify compliance gaps early, review the GDPR requirements relevant to your organization and compare them to your current security posture.A comprehensive assessment helps clarify critical aspects of data security, such as:Technical controlsAccess to sensitive informationData collection and storage proceduresIncident response protocolsFull-scale audits may seem unrealistic for startups with limited resources. However, instead of postponing the assessment, you can take a phased approach (prioritizing the most critical data flows) or use an automated GDPR compliance software to reduce manual workload.At this step, you should also decide whether you need to appoint a data protection officer (DPO). They are responsible for overseeing compliance and addressing questions and requests from data subjects and regulators. Under the GDPR, appointing a DPO is mandatory only if your organization:Manages large volumes of dataRegularly monitors individualsProcesses special categories of sensitive dataEven when a DPO isn’t mandatory, startups that handle personal data at scale or work with EU enterprises often appoint one voluntarily, as customers or partners may request it for assurance and trust purposes. Doing so establishes clear accountability and improves governance.Step 5: Update your privacy policies and proceduresBased on your assessment findings, you should update your policies and procedures to ensure alignment with the GDPR. Your new privacy policy should clearly explain:How personal data is collected, processed, and storedWho the data is shared with, including any third-party processorsWhat rights data subjects have and how they can exercise themWhether and how data is transferred outside the EUWhen sharing these privacy statements on your website or app, avoid lengthy, jargon-heavy legal texts. Plain, concise language is far more effective for helping users understand their rights, lower friction in B2B sales cycles, and ultimately build trust. Maintaining a GDPR compliant website is a key part of this.What’s equally important is how you document internal privacy procedures. They should be practical, easy for small teams to follow, and designed to integrate smoothly into your everyday operations.Step 6: Establish data subject rights workflowsData subject rights are the cornerstone of GDPR compliance. Individuals have the right to know what data you have about them, ask for corrections, and even request that you erase their personal information entirely.When planning how you’ll handle these requests, think long-term. In a startup’s early days, a founder or someone else on the team can easily export or delete a record manually. But, as the organization scales, data becomes scattered across multiple systems, tools, and teams, making this approach unmanageable.To stay compliant, you’ll need to establish structured workflows from the start. These should allow you to review, update, or potentially delete data efficiently whenever a request is made.It’s equally important to create clear communication channels (such as a dedicated email address or a contact form) so individuals can easily reach you with requests or questions about their personal information.Step 7: Train stakeholdersEven the best data protection policies will fail if your team doesn’t know how to apply them properly. That’s why you should conduct regular training sessions that will cover the basics of handling personal data, including:How to protect sensitive informationHow to recognize potential security incidentsWhat steps to take in the event of a data breachHow to report privacy incidentsIn startups, where employees often juggle multiple roles, cross-training is crucial. Don’t limit training to technical staff, as any team member may handle customer data and should have at least a basic understanding of data privacy and security principles.However, frequent, formal training programs may not be practical for smaller teams. A more effective approach is to create brief, actionable training guides tailored to different roles. They can serve as quick refreshers for existing team members and an easy onboarding resource for new hires.Step 8: Maintain thorough documentationMaintaining thorough documentation is one of the core requirements of the GDPR. According to the regulation’s accountability principle, you need to be able to demonstrate who accessed sensitive data and why.The most important document is the record of processing activities (RoPA), which tracks how personal data moves through your systems. In addition, you should keep detailed records of:Employee training completionVersion histories of your privacy policiesData subject requests and how they were handledKeeping these records current is crucial, as outdated documentation can undermine compliance and expose you to the risk of financial penalties and corrective actions.Managing all this documentation manually can become overwhelming as your startup scales, so consider implementing automated cloud-based solutions. They streamline recordkeeping, minimize human error, and help you prepare for audits faster.Key GDPR considerations and best practices for startupsTo achieve continuous and sustainable GDPR compliance as a startup, you should embed certain privacy principles into your existing processes to ensure accountability, resilience, and long-term scalability.Here are some best practices to keep in mind:Adopt privacy-by-design safeguards into your workflows, products, and systems from the start, this helps demonstrate accountability—one of the GDPR’s core principlesMake sure all data processing activities are clearly documented and easy to auditRegularly review and update processes to stay aligned with GDPR requirementsUse clear data processing agreements and conduct periodic audits to ensure your processors meet GDPR standardsAutomation, in particular, can be a game-changer for startups pursuing GDPR compliance. Many early-stage companies don’t have to demonstrate compliance until a major customer audit or regulatory inquiry arises, so they rely on manual workflows. However, not streamlining the process from the start can leave hidden gaps that can derail deals, undermine customer trust, or expose the company to regulatory action.“Automation gives founders the confidence that compliance won’t become the bottleneck to growth,” says Rowse.GDPR compliance as a growth advantageGDPR compliance may feel complex, but for startups, it can also be an opportunity. By building strong data protection practices early, founders can reduce risk, earn trust faster, and scale with confidence. With the right processes and tools in place, GDPR becomes a foundation for sustainable growth rather than a barrier to it.This story was produced by Vanta and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Light snow followed by warmer weather then more snow A light snow event will affect parts of the Quad Cities area tonight, then we warm into the 60s Friday. However, more snow chances are in the weekend forecast. February temperatures are running above average and that trend will continue. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Two Rivers YMCA seeks city support for $23.5 million renovation Two Rivers YMCA in Moline is planning a $23.5 million renovation and asking the city to waive more than $100,000 in permit fees to help fund upgrades.
	How to take care of your brain at any age (BPT) - Key takeaways:Brain health should be a priority for adults of every age.There are many ways to take care of your brain, from socializing to taking brain-boosting supplements like Cognizin citicoline.When you invest in your brain health, you can improve your focus and attention today as well as preserve your cognitive abilities and memory down the line.It may only weigh 3 pounds, but your brain is one of the most important organs in your body. The brain is responsible for your thoughts, feelings, memory, experiences, communication, motor skills and so many other processes. That's why it's important to invest in your brain health now.Brain health isn't just important for older adults. Brain health and performance should be top of mind for everyone at any age. Investing in brain health when you're young can help sharpen your focus and mental energy, so you can zone in and be more productive. And, as you age, maintaining brain health can help to preserve your memory and other cognitive functions.Not sure how to start taking care of your brain? Read on to discover just a few tips that can keep your brain working well, whether you're 18 or 80.Eat smart to fuel your thoughts Food nourishes your whole body, and that includes your brain. So, what foods can help your brain function at its best now and in the future? According to Harvard Health, your best strategy is to change your dietary habits to prioritize veggies, fruits, legumes, whole grains, fish and healthy fats. The next time you're at the store, consider buying:Green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach and broccoliStrawberries and blueberriesBlack beans and chickpeasCracked wheat, oats and whole-grain couscousOmega-3 rich fish like salmon, cod and canned light tunaOlive oil and other healthy fatsIncorporate brain support supplements into your routineSupplements are a great way to optimize brain-fueling nutrients. For example, Cognizin Citicoline is a great supplement to add to your daily routine to support mental focus and memory.What is citicoline? You may not know it by name, but it's already inside of you! Citicoline is a naturally occurring brain nutrient that protects and repairs your brain cells.Many cognitive health ingredients on the market can enhance your brain performance. However, Cognizin Citicoline provides brain performance and comprehensive brain health support over time. Clinical trials have shown that this brain health nutrient offers cognitive benefits for young professionals and improved memory function for older adults.Cognizin is used in over 300 products, from capsules to beverages. You can visit Cognizin.com/en/Buy-Cognizin to learn more and find the products that work best for you.Protect your brain when you exerciseStaying active is great for your body and brain, but don't forget to wear a helmet. Whether you bike, ski, snowboard, roller skate, skateboard, horseback ride, or participate in high-impact sports like football and hockey, wearing a helmet can reduce your risk of a head injury.According to the Mayo Clinic, a moderate to severe TBI can lead to cognitive issues with memory, attention, concentration, communication and problem-solving.Invest in social connections and reap brain benefits Social connections are incredibly vital to your well-being throughout every stage of life and can protect your brain health. Socializing can improve a person's longevity, stress levels, mood and — most importantly — boost their thinking and memory.How do social connections improve brain health? When you participate in social interactions, you're activating neural pathways and preserving neural plasticity. In other words, it keeps your brain flexible, allowing it to adapt and function well now and in your golden years.If you're struggling to connect with others, try one (or a few) of these activities:Having a weekly phone or video call with an old friendHosting a game nightMeeting up with loved ones for lunch or dinnerPlanning a hike, bike ride or other activityJoining a book clubNo matter your age, take care of your brainIt's never too early or too late to invest in your brain health and function. The time and energy you spend trying these and other brain-boosting tips can help you in your personal and professional life now and keep your cognition and memory in tip-top shape in your retirement.To learn more tips to keep your brain healthy at any age, visit Cognizin.com.
	YWCA Quad Cities to host Youth Career Fair & Career Readiness Workshop YWCA Quad Cities will host a Career Readiness Workshop on Friday, Feb. 27 and Youth Career Fair on Friday, March 6.
	11th annual Black Business Expo happening in the Quad-Cities this weekend The event will be held Saturday, Feb. 28, 1-4 p.m., at NorthPark Mall, 320 W. Kimberly Road in Davenport. Admission is free.
	Job fair connecting teachers with local school districts to be held March 2 in Bettendorf The fair is open to anyone interested in teaching opportunities in the region and includes school districts in both Iowa and Illinois.
	Two Rivers YMCA planning $25 million in upgrades in Moline Mike Wennekemp and Rob Anderson requested the city waive approximately $130,000 in building permit fees and inspection fees for the project located at 2040 53rd St.
	East Moline mother of 7 works to earn her bachelor's degree in remembrance of her own mom Sierra Ellis asked the Quad-City Times Wish List for a dining room table to continue the traditions her mother passed down to her.
	Former Davenport School Board member memorialized with stage renaming A former Davenport School Board president will have a theater stage named after her at Central High School.
	What to know about Meta’s proposed Davenport data center About a year after a Meta-controlled company finished buying farmland in northern Davenport, there has been no groundbreaking or public update.
	David B. Sears This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.When Mother Nature hands out souls, she is generally careful to separate those who are hard-working,…
	When a horse whinnies, there's more than meets the ear A new study finds that horse whinnies are made of both a high and a low frequency, generated by different parts of the vocal tract. The two-tone sound may help horses convey more complex information.
	Movies and TV shows casting across the US Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock Movies and TV shows casting across the US The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities' Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of that journey.Whether you're a working actor or an aspiring one, you might be curious to know which movies and TV shows are casting roles near you. Backstage compiled a list of projects casting right now across the U.S., and which roles they're looking to fill. Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Stable Boy' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Hank Maddox (lead, male, 45-55)--- Hazel Maddox (lead, female, 18-24)--- Stone (lead, male, 18-24)- Roles pay up to: $1,800- Casting locations: Las Cruces, NM- Learn more about the vertical series here guruXOX // Shutterstock The Sequel, Part 26 - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Dan Smith, the Sixth (supporting, male, 18-25)--- Jennifer Robinson the 2nd (supporting, female, 18-26)--- Tom Thompson, IV (lead, 17-20)- Roles pay up to: $300- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the feature film here Media_Photos // Shutterstock Microdrama China - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Amber Scott (lead, female, 18-22)- Roles pay up to: $800- Casting locations: nationwide- Learn more about the vertical series here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Lycan Princess Marries Her Nemesis' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Aria Kingsley (lead, female, 18-24)--- Lucien Blackwood (lead, male, 18-28)--- Alaric Lyon (supporting, male, 18-28)- Roles pay up to: $4,000- Casting locations: Baldwin Park, CA; Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the vertical series here Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock 'Fated to the Alpha Who Left Me' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Elena Silver (lead, female, 18-25)--- Noah Storm (lead, male, 20-28)--- Ivy (supporting, female, 18-26)- Roles pay up to: $4,800- Casting locations: Baldwin Park, CA; Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the vertical series here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Out The Kitchen' - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Criminal Gang Members (SAG-AFTRA Covered) (background / extra, male, 18-75)--- Criminal Gang Members (Non-SAG Covered) (background / extra, male, 18-75)--- Dangerous Criminals (SAG-AFTRA Covered) (background / extra, male, 18-75)- Roles pay up to: $224- Casting locations: New York City, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'Minivan,' Students - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Students (Ages 10-15) (Non SAG Covered) (background / extra, 10-15)- Roles pay up to: $187- Casting locations: New York, NY; Dobbs Ferry, NY; Nanuet, NY; Yonkers, NY; Purchase, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Cheating Ex I'll Never Forgive' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Emma (lead, female, 18-24)--- Ethan (lead, male, 18-25)--- Carter (supporting, male, 18-25)- Roles pay up to: CA$400- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the vertical series here muratart // Shutterstock NASCAR x Coronado Promo - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Pilot 1 (Rowdy) (supporting, male, 30-45)--- Pilot 2 (Peaches) (supporting, female, 25-40)--- Pilot 3 ('Stache) (supporting, male, 21-30)- Roles pay up to: $5,000- Casting locations: San Diego, CA- Learn more about the scripted show here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock Streaming Series, Parent Roles - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Parents (Of Middle Schoolers and High Schoolers) (background / extra, 35-60)- Roles pay up to: $187- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Purchase, NY; Yonkers, NY; Nyack, NY; Nanuet, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Tikkyshop // Shutterstock 'The Middle' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Adriana Perez (lead, female, 18-25)--- Andrew (supporting, male, 18-25)- Roles pay up to: $3,000- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the feature film here KinoMasterskaya // Shutterstock 'AIG' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- 5'4 Black Female Nude Body Double (day player, female, 25-40)--- 5'10 White Male Nude Body Double (day player, male, 25-40)--- 5'5 White Female Nude Body Double (day player, female, 18-30)- Roles pay up to: $1,246- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Jersey City, NJ; Hoboken, NJ- Learn more about the feature film here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'The Gilded Age,' Season 4 - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- People to Portray Footmen (Non SAG AFTRA Covered) (background / extra, male, 18-25)- Roles pay up to: $187- Casting locations: New York City, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Dpongvit // Shutterstock 'The Price of Letting Go' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Young Fans (background / extra, female, 18-25)- Roles pay up to: $180- Casting locations: Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the vertical series here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'Let's Switch Spots!' (WT) - Project type: reality TV- Roles: --- Family Member (real people, 5+)- Roles pay up to: $10,000- Casting locations: nationwide- Learn more about the reality TV show here This story was produced by Backstage and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Thursday, February 26th, 2026

Wednesday, February 25th, 2026