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

Wednesday, June 17th, 2026
	Henry County Health Dept. finds first West Nile Virus of 2026 in specimen bath The Henry and Stark County Health Department reports that its first mosquito pool of the year to test positive for West Nile virus (WNV) was a specimen batch collected and tested on June 5, according to a report from the Henry and Stark County Health Department. “The news of the first batch of mosquitos carrying [...]
	License renewal processes to change for senior drivers in Illinois July 1 Drivers license renewal processes will change for seniors in Illinois. Under the Illinois Road Safety and Fairness Act, drivers 79 through 86 will no longer be required to take a behind-the-wheel test because of their age, but they will still have to renew the license in person and pass a vision screening test. Drivers 79 [...]
	Macomb celebrates 1 year of glass recycling program Residents have kept more than 41 tons of glass out of landfills. That's the weight of almost six large elephants!
	Severe weather update for the rest of the night After a very active morning with lots of heavy rain and thunderstorms in the Quad Cities, things have began to calm down for the evening. Heavy rain dropped on the Quad Cities leading to flash flood warnings and severe thunderstorms producing 70-80 mph winds, causing damage like downed trees, and even a toppled train car [...]
	Central DeWitt school board approves updated master plan for improvements, includes no property tax increases District officials hope to put a $33.7 million bond referendum on the November ballot to help fund the plan, but it would only extend current levy payments.
	Here's how much the the Iran war cost -- and how its effects will linger More than three months after the U.S. and Israel launched their war on Iran, the costs and aftereffects are felt around the world.
	Spend your Father's Day weekend at the Geneseo Music Festival Spend your Father's Day weekend enjoying live music, parades, food trucks, tractor displays and so much more! Lindsie Akers joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the Geneseo Music Festival. For more information, click here.
	Longtime Freight House vendor publishes ‘City Farmers’ Market’ for young readers Scott Smith — known to families as “Mr. Homegrown” — has released a new children’s book, City Farmers’ Market, inspired by his decades at the Freight House Farmers Market and aimed at teaching kids about fresh produce, farming and local food.
	Iowa native, U.S. Air Force Maj. Brad Hovey, killed in B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base One of the eight B-52 bomber crash victims at Edwards Airforce Base in California this week was an Iowa native.
	Calming down Wednesday evening with quiet weather into Father’s Day weekend First Alert Day issued as a strong weather system brings damaging hail, gusty winds and isolated tornado potential through Wednesday evening
	A Taste on the River in East Moline cancelled While we are disappointed to cancel this beloved event, the safety of our guests, volunteers, chefs, sponsors, vendors, and community partners remains our highest priority, a media release said.
	J.T. Poston, Ben Griffin commit to 2026 John Deere Classic field The two players are currently in the top 40 of the World Golf Rankings.
	New local history mural completed at Davenport’s MLK Park A new colorful mural by nationally recognized artist and muralist Cbabi Bayoc is done, next to the Martin Luther King Jr. Interpretive Center, 501 N. Brady St., Davenport.
	Victim in East Moline homicide identified as Moline 27-year-old Officials have released the identity of the man killed in Tuesday morning’s shooting in East Moline. Another man has been arrested in connection with the shooting.
	Auditor examines Iowa’s Education Savings Account program State Auditor Rob Sand says the state’s Education Savings Account program cost taxpayers nearly $330 million dollars this school year.
	Multiple train cars on ground after derailment near Ormonde KWQC is working to learn more about a train derailment near Ormonde Wednesday morning.
	Victim in East Moline shooting identified A 21-year-old Rock Island man was arrested on a murder charge after a shooting in East Moline Tuesday.
	Lawmakers, stakeholders are ready for summer of data center negotiations Data centers, labor and environmental stakeholders say they’re ready to meet at the negotiating table as soon as possible because uncertainty is holding communities and projects in limbo.
	Rare Pallas’s cat kittens born at Niabi Zoo mark conservation milestone Three rare Pallas’s cat kittens born at Niabi Zoo boost North American conservation efforts after storm recovery and habitat rebuild.
	Red Cross' A Taste on the River fundraiser canceled due to weather The annual event was set to take place on Wednesday, June 17.
	Tips to keep your brain healthy, Coal Valley daycare investigation: News 8 This Week - June 14, 2026 June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. We speak with Dr. Michael Stockman on how to take care of your brain. Plus, more on a News 8 investigation.
	Friends of Muscatine Art Center host Ice Cream Social The Friends of the Muscatine Art Center is hosting its annual Ice Cream Social on Sunday, June 28 from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Art Center, 1314 Mulberry Avenue. The free, family friendly event encourages residents to an afternoon of art, music, history and fun. The Friends organization will have slices of pie, brownies, [...]
	Scott County Recorder Rita Vargas to retire after all, withdraws name from ballot Rita Vargas will have served 24 years as Scott County recorder, elected first in 2002. Democrats will nominate a new candidate at a special convention this week.
	Severe weather across the QCA causes power outages Severe weather conditions across the QCA has caused power outages in our region. To keep track of coverage, use the following links: MidAmerican Energy Ameren Alliant Energy For more weather information, click here.
	Here’s where Davenport’s mobile speed cabinets will be through late June Heads up, Quad Cities drivers! Here’s where Davenport’s mobile speed cabinets are located June 15 - 21 and June 22 - 29.
	'Pride at Wake' returns with 2 drag shows supporting LGBTQ+ organizations You can enjoy a full day of food, auctions, vendors and performances on Saturday, June 20 at Wake Brewing in Rock Island.
	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: MARK ALZAMORA, 36, 5’10”, 150 pounds, brown hair, blue eyes. Wanted by Scott County Sheriff’s Office for probation violations on convictions for harassment 1st [...]
	Upcoming showcase will feature and honor Monmouth-area entrepreneurs An entrepreneurial recognition ceremony will take place on June 27 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the American Legion on North 11th Street in Monmouth.
	'Stuff the Bus' school supply drive in Monmouth on Friday You can drop off items in front of the Recharge Teen Center at 213 S. Main St. in Monmouth from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Friday.
	Downed power lines, train derailment reported in Monmouth as severe storms hit Wednesday morning Thousands of power outages are being reported in western Illinois, with Ameren Illinois saying strong winds knocked down several lines.
	Niabi Zoo welcomes rare Pallas’s cat kittens Niabi Zoo is marking a significant conservation milestone with the birth of three new Pallas’s cat kittens. The kittens were born to Eevi and Haruto, the zoo’s Pallas’s cats, as part of the Pallas’s Cat Species Survival Plan (SSP), a collaborative breeding program designed to help maintain a healthy, genetically diverse population of the species [...]
	'One of the biggest wins' MercyOne Clinton Medical Center celebrates new surgical robot "This is one of the biggest wins we've had in a long time, so it's something that our community really should celebrate."
	Man charged with several counts of child sexual abuse A LeClaire man has been charged with several counts of sexual abuse to a child.
	Inflation drives Davenport Mexican restaurant to raise Taco Tuesday prices Azteca Bar and Grill near 53rd and Brady has been serving 99 cent tacos for over a dozen years.
	Junior Achievement of the Heartland names new CFO/COO Junior Achievement of the Heartland has named Amy Barth as Chief Financial & Operating Officer (CFO/COO). She will join the organization on June 22 and has extensive experience in financial leadership, operations and strategic planning. Barth will oversee financial management, operational effectiveness, human resources and long-term sustainability initiatives. This leadership will help strengthen the organization's [...]
	Tropical Storm Arthur is the first named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season Forecasters say Arthur could generate life-threatening flash floods along the northern Gulf Coast. But it is not expected to strengthen further.
	Greetings from Maputo, Mozambique's capital, shaped by a modernist architecture An impromptu tour of Mozambique's capital city reveals a unique imprint left by architect Amâncio "Pancho" Guedes.
	Morning storms cause damage, power outages across region Severe morning storms cause widespread damage, thousands of power outages, and a train derailment across parts of Iowa and Illinois.
	Severe weather update After seeing heavy rain and strong storms throughout the morning we are still watching for a few severe thunderstorm warnings with 60-70mph winds. The worst of the storms has passed our area, but we are still tracking the chance of more severe thunderstorms late into the morning and lingering into the afternoon. Flash Flood warnings [...]
	Don’t Turn Your Back On Dog Bite Prevention (NAPSI)— If any of the nearly 90 million pet dogs in the U.S. is part of your household, here’s news you may care to consider: Last year, U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employees suffered more than 5,200 dog attacks. What Can Be DoneTo combat this, USPS is sharing vital safety guidance to help pet owners protect mail carriers and ensure uninterrupted mail delivery: a month-long Dog Bite Awareness campaign through June with the theme of “Don’t turn your back on dog bite prevention.” “Every single day, our postal employees serve their communities across dynamic, fast-changing environments,” said Leeann Theriault, employee safety and health awareness manager. “Preventing dog-related incidents requires constant, shared vigilance. This campaign reinforces a vital truth: Animal behaviors can change in an instant, but proactive awareness from both our carriers and the customers we serve can stop painful injuries before they ever happen.” Keep Mail Delivery Safe: Tips for Dog OwnersEven the most predictable pets can act unpredictably when defending territory or feeling startled. Because dogs rely on protective instincts, owners must manage their dogs during delivery times to prevent accidents. Keep your dog in a separate closed room before opening the front door. If you step outside, ensure the door is firmly latched. Always use a leash if your dog is outdoors during mail delivery. Finally, never accept mail directly from a carrier in the presence of your dog, and teach children to avoid doing so, as dogs can misinterpret the interaction as a threat.Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery and See the Mail on Your Electronic Device Before It ArrivesBy using the free Informed Delivery feature, customers can digitally preview incoming mail and packages from a computer, tablet or mobile device. Over 70 million customers have enrolled since the service was launched in 2017. Sign up at informeddelivery.usps.com. This service can help dog owners anticipate when their carrier might arrive.About The Post OfficeThe USPS is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to more than 170 million addresses six and often seven days a week. The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.The Financial and Emotional Damage of a Dog AttackProtecting your carrier protects your wallet. If your dog attacks a postal worker, you could owe thousands of dollars out of pocket to cover their medical care, lost shifts, replacement clothing and emotional distress.“I was walking my route when a dog jumped the fence and lunged at me,” said San Antonio Letter Carrier Fiona Hudson. “I used my dog repellent and mail bag to defend myself, but it was too late. I was rushed to the hospital bleeding, with a broken bone, a severe arm sprain and was barely able to move. While my physical wounds have healed, the trauma of that vicious attack stays with me. Customers must take responsibility and secure their dogs during delivery hours.” Take Action: Unsecured Dogs Stop Mail DeliveryWhen a carrier feels unsafe because of a roaming dog, mail service can be temporarily suspended.Until the carrier feels safe enough to restart delivery, the mail will have to be picked up at the dog owner’s Post Office.If a carrier feels a house or neighborhood is unsafe to deliver to and there is no way to inform residents their mail service has been suspended, the residents will have to contact the supervisor at their local Post Office for more information. The residents would also have to pick up their mail at the Post Office until it is safe to resume delivery.If a dangerous dog issue is not resolved, owners can be required to rent a Post Office Box to receive mail.Armed with Awareness: How Carriers Prevent Dog BitesPostal carriers undergo extensive safety training to spot potential canine hazards. Carriers are instructed to remain vigilant and exercise these precautions:Announce entry. Rattle a fence gate or make a non-threatening sound before walking into a yard.Maintain visual contact. Never startle an animal and always keep eyes locked on the dog.Assume dog poses risk. Avoid petting or feeding any animal on the assumption that any dog has the potential to bite.Block exits. Secure outward-swinging doors with a foot to prevent a pet from escaping.If a dog attacks, carriers are trained to stand their ground, use their mail satchel as a protective shield and deploy dog repellent if necessary. To stay ahead of these risks, USPS also provides carriers with awareness tools, including handheld scanners that feature built-in dog warning alerts and physical warning cards that are placed into mail sorting cases to alert a carrier of a dog at a certain address.Learn MoreDog bite awareness events will be held across the country throughout June, and USPS will share information on social media using the hashtag #dogbiteawareness.Word Count: 813
	Moline City Council discusses River Station building purchase and winter shelter report he Moline City Council is reviewing a $1.65 million downtown building purchase and evaluating a report on its winter emergency shelter operations.
	Top cities for first-time buyers in 2026: Owning vs. renting Top cities for first-time buyers in 2026: Owning vs. rentingFor first-time buyers, the rent-or-own question has become harder to answer in recent years.Home prices have stayed high in many markets, and mortgage rates remain well above their early-2020s lows.But the rent-versus-buy math usually leaves something out. Rent buys flexibility and shields renters from many repair costs, but it doesn’t build home equity.A mortgage payment works differently: Interest, taxes, and insurance are costs, just like rent, while the principal portion chips away at the loan balance. Add any gain in the home’s value, and ownership can build equity through appreciation too.Once you factor equity in, the rent versus buy comparison changes. To find out where that equity-building gives buyers the greatest financial advantage compared to renting, Lower analyzed for-sale and city-level appreciation data from its real estate search platform, Movoto.Key FindingsBuying beats renting in 56 of 136 cities (41%) when comparing three-bedroom ZIP code-level HUD rents against the net cost of owning, which factors in principal paydown and each city’s actual recent appreciation. The other 59% of cities still favor renting, and the median city still tilts that way, pulled down by markets where appreciation was flat or negative.Hartford, Connecticut, leads nationally, with buyers saving +$2,968 per month compared to renters. That was because Hartford had the highest annualized appreciation rate in the study at an 11.1%. This result rests almost entirely on recent home price growth and stands apart from the rest of the dataset. The next-highest advantage is Worcester, Massachusetts, at +$1,640 per month.Midwest and Northeast cities dominate the top of the rankings. Of the 10 cities where buying’s edge is largest, five are Midwestern, including Cleveland (+8.6% appreciation), Dayton (+7%) and Milwaukee (+6.8%). Three are in the Northeast, led by Hartford and Worcester.The study focused on housing markets where home prices fall within Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan limits, which are designed to make homeownership more accessible to first-time buyers with lower down payments and flexible credit requirements.The final analysis includes 136 markets where home prices, rents, and appreciation data could be reliably compared.Lower compared rents against the estimated monthly cost of owning with an FHA loan. That cost included principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and the FHA mortgage insurance premium (MIP), which is a standard fee for FHA borrowers.The rent figures used throughout this study are based on Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Small Area Fair Market Rents data for three-bedroom units, measured at the ZIP code level. These annually published rent figures represent the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard-quality units, which are modest, non-luxury rentals. The study used ZIP code-level data to give each city its own rent benchmark rather than a broad metro-wide average.Why City-Specific Appreciation MattersThis analysis uses annualized listing-price changes from Movoto market data for 2023 to 2026 to reflect recent market performance. The tables break out equity from home price growth separately from equity built through monthly payments, making it easier to see what’s guaranteed versus what depends on the market. Lower National RankingsTop 25 Cities: Owning vs. Renting (3-Bedroom)Lower identified the 25 cities across the United States where buying shows the largest monthly edge over renting once equity is counted, focusing on places where homeownership is within reach for first-time buyers.The monthly difference was determined by subtracting the estimated equity-adjusted monthly cost of owning, after crediting any monthly equity built (principal paydown plus recent city-specific listing-price appreciation), from the median rent (3BR). Cities are ranked in descending order by the monthly difference.Buyers still pay the full mortgage amount each month. The net cost figure is an equity-adjusted estimate, not a cash-flow payment. Lower How the Math Works: Hartford, CTHartford leads with 11.1% annualized appreciation. Strong price growth in a market with tight housing supply, which intensified competition among buyers pushed appreciation higher over the period studied, but that trend may not reflect long-term or typical market conditions.Just because Hartford took the top spot doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best market for first-time homebuyers. Other markets where homeownership pays off, like Dayton or Cleveland, might have more opportunity for first-time homebuyers since they don’t depend on such rapid appreciation. Lower Top 5 Cities by RegionWest: Top 5The West has the lowest share of markets where buying has the advantage over renting of any region at just 26%.In most Western markets, appreciation from 2023 to 2026 was modest. The study’s average across cities in the Western United States was well below the national study average, which limits how much the appreciation component offsets mortgage costs.The West region's top two cities, Menifee, California (+$705 per month) and Lancaster, California (+$515 per month), succeed largely because their median rents are relatively high against more affordable home prices.The regional advantage narrows quickly after the top five. Only one additional Western city remained above break-even. Lower South: Top 5The South is the most represented region in the study with 74 cities, 22 of which (30%) favor buying after factoring in equity.Newport News, Virginia, leads the South at +$1,107 per month, powered by a 3.8% appreciation rate and a median rent that runs close to the gross mortgage.Maryland’s Baltimore ranks second in the South at +$990per month. Alabama’s Montgomery also reaches the top five at +$877 per month, helped by a 6.7% appreciation rate against relatively affordable home prices.The top five Southern markets are led by Newport News; Baltimore; Montgomery; Columbus, Georgia; and Jackson, Mississippi, where appreciation and principal paydown offset enough of the monthly mortgage cost to keep buying ahead of renting. Lower Northeast: Top 5Despite having the fewest cities of any region (just 11), the Northeast has the highest rate of markets favoring buyers, at 82%.Hartford, Connecticut, leads the region, and the entire study nationally, at +$2,968 per month. That result is driven by an 11.1% annualized appreciation rate from 2023 to 2026, the highest of any city in this analysis.Hartford is a genuine outlier. The next-highest advantage in the region is Worcester, Massachusetts, at +$1,640 per month, with a more moderate 5.8% appreciation rate. Lower Midwest: Top 5Buying comes out ahead in 19 of 28 cities (68%) in the Midwest, largely due to a combination of low home prices and solid recent appreciation.Cleveland, Ohio, leads at +$1,298 per month. With a gross mortgage of $1,625 per month and an 8.6% appreciation rate generating $1,314 per month in monthly appreciation equity, the net cost of owning is $152 per month against a $1,450 median rent.Dayton and Akron in Ohio, along with Milwaukee, all show the same trend of affordable entry prices and appreciation rates between 6% and 8% that drive meaningful equity accumulation each month. Noblesville, Indiana, is the exception: Higher home prices produce a $3,815 monthly mortgage, but strong 5.8% appreciation compensates for those higher prices, putting it at +$1,115 per month.For buyers focused on the most affordable markets in the study, the Midwest offers the widest selection of options. Lower What This Means For First-Time HomebuyersBuying comes out ahead in 41% of the cities studied once equity building is factored in. But whether buying pays off changes depending on both prices and appreciation.National averages tell you almost nothing about your own city. Appreciation varied widely from city to city between 2023 and 2026, and in some markets it was negative. In those cities, falling home values reduced the equity homeowners built each month, making the net cost of owning higher than the mortgage payment alone suggests. The opposite was true for markets where appreciation was high, as showcased by outliers like Hartford.Past appreciation isn't guaranteed to continue, but in every market, the principal paydown portion of equity is guaranteed by the loan’s amortization schedule, regardless of what home prices do.Keep in mind that rates can change. Rates have risen markedly so far in 2026 following a gradual decline from post-pandemic highs. A lower future rate could improve the math for buyers who refinance, while a higher rate would weaken affordability for new buyers.There are also costs beyond a mortgage when it comes to owning a home. Closing costs, maintenance, and HOA fees can all drive up the total cost of homeownership.Data and MethodologyLower analyzed homeownership costs and rents across U.S. cities with populations of 75,000 or more, focusing on markets where homes are priced within reach of FHA borrowers. Cities were included where the median listing price exceeded $100,000, median gross rent exceeded $900 per month, and the median listing price fell at or below the 2026 FHA national floor of $541,287 (per HUD and Lower.com, effective Jan. 1, 2026). Cities with fewer than 10 active MLS for-sale listings on Movoto were excluded to ensure listing price data reflected a meaningful sample. These filters produced 169 qualifying cities, of which 136 were successfully matched to both ZIP code-level HUD rent data and city-specific appreciation data.Median listing prices and city-level appreciation data come from Movoto, a real estate search platform and Lower company. Homeowners insurance estimates are from The Zebra, with state averages used where city-level data is unavailable. Population and state-level property tax rates are drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau 2024 ACS 1-Year Estimates.Monthly mortgage cost uses a 5% down payment and a 6.52% 30-year fixed rate (Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, June 11, 2026) applied to Movoto’s median listing price, and includes principal and interest, property taxes (listing price multiplied by state effective tax rate, divided by 12), homeowners insurance, and FHA MIP at 0.55% annually. The upfront FHA MIP of 1.75% is rolled into the loan balance.Monthly equity built has two components. Principal paydown is the Month-1 principal portion of the mortgage payment, which is the amount that reduces the loan balance rather than paying interest, as determined by the amortization schedule. Monthly appreciation is calculated as the listing price multiplied by the city-specific annualized appreciation rate divided by 12, where the rate for each city is the annualized listing price change from 2023 to 2026, sourced from Movoto market data. Across the 136 cities in this analysis, the mean appreciation rate is 1.6%, and the median is 1.4%. Thirty-four cities have negative appreciation rates; in those cities the monthly appreciation figure is negative and increases the net cost of owning rather than reducing it. Total monthly equity equals principal paydown plus monthly appreciation. Net cost of owning equals gross monthly mortgage minus total monthly equity. Monthly difference equals median rent (3BR) minus net cost of owning. Cities are ranked in descending order by monthly difference.The rental benchmark is the HUD FY2026 Small Area Fair Market Rent (SAFMR) for three-bedroom units at the ZIP code level, representing the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard-quality units. For each city, the median SAFMR across the city’s primary ZIP codes was used. Cities were matched to HUD FMR areas using county FIPS codes and to SAFMRs using primary ZIP codes, a deterministic method that prevents errors from cities sharing names across different states or metro areas.This study is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, mortgage, or investment advice. City-specific appreciation rates reflect what happened from 2023 to 2026, not what will happen going forward. The ownership cost does not include maintenance, closing costs, potential HOA fees, or the opportunity cost of the down payment. Individual results will vary.This story was produced by Lower and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The marketing job AI can't touch, and why the pay is up The marketing job AI can't touch, and why the pay is up Marketing jobs may be some of the earliest and clearest signals of how AI is reshaping work. For some roles, AI is outright replacing them, and for others, it is accelerating change in what marketing work is conducted and how. Most importantly, it is redefining how and where companies are willing to hire marketing professionals.Marketing was at the top of the list of job functions most exposed to automation and AI disruption. The key skills and roles that build the modern marketing function are also time-consuming and routine. As generative AI tools take off, companies are finding they can deploy them to work faster and more cheaply.However, this isn't the full picture. As generative AI takes flight, the roles most disrupted are those that manage the digital side: content marketing, digital marketing, and marketing technology. On the other hand, those that require a human touch, such as field or event marketing, are in some cases actually seeing employment growth, and paying 6.2% more than they did six months ago. As AI usage grows, authentic human presence, relationship-building, and boots-on-the-ground execution are becoming even more important.Analysis of hiring momentum and role prevalence across 9,000-plus companies shows how organizations are redesigning their workforces to meet the AI moment. Pave’s Hot Job Index scores and ranks jobs from −100 (cooling fast) to +100 (heating fast), providing insight into where organizations are investing at this moment. In short, the higher the score, the more companies value this skill set at this moment.The Marketing Jobs AI Is DisruptingMarketing Technology ManagementComing in at No. 5 on the Cold Jobs list is marketing technology management (martech), with an index score of -66. This job has seen a steady decline since 2023, with Pave data showing a drop in the prevalence of new hires from 0.08% to 0.05%. The dual forces of marketing technology consolidation and AI are amplifying this trend by enabling non-technical people to take on more technical tasks. Pave This job family often rolls up into other functions, with the senior leader wearing multiple hats. This may be another way AI is playing a role, as senior-level leaders are seeing their remits expand; companies may likely be consolidating martech ownership under a hybrid umbrella. Pave Digital MarketingDigital marketing sits at No. 3 on the Cold Jobs list, with a score of -77. These marketers are responsible for planning and executing online campaigns to build brand awareness or convert leads across various channels, such as social media, websites, and search engines. Since Q4 of 2023, hiring for this role has more than halved, from 0.40% of new hires down to 0.19%. Pave While you are seeing fewer of these jobs, that doesn’t mean you will see any fewer online ads anytime soon. In fact, AI tools are making it so quick and easy for non-marketers to build content, design, run, and optimize marketing campaigns that you are likely seeing a flood of new digital advertising.This is another role experiencing upward consolidation, as reflected in the premium companies are paying to new hires at the senior-most levels of this job family. Companies are increasingly hiring career/senior marketers to leverage their expertise and AI tooling to generate digital marketing tasks at scale—and they are willing to pay a premium for it. Pave Content MarketingThe fastest-cooling marketing job on the Cold Jobs list is content marketing, coming in at No. 2 with a score of -80. Hiring for this job has rapidly declined from 0.77% to 0.36% since 2023. As anyone who has used GenAI for their own use cases can attest, it is now easier than ever to generate assets, whether articles, whitepapers, or videos. As quickly as these tools became mainstream, leadership teams around the world began asking to what extent they still need to hire full-time copywriters and content marketers. Pave More interesting is the pay premium for this role. Unlike digital marketing, where only more senior hires are seeing a new-hire premium, content marketing is showing a premium across all three levels. As AI content proliferates and more AI slop is generated, organizations are investing in top talent to orchestrate high-quality content. The job has shifted from creation to strategic content development and curation. Pave The Marketing Job AI Can’t ReplaceAs AI takes over our digital lives, in-person engagement and connection with customers are becoming increasingly more important. Perhaps surprisingly to some, field marketing ranks No. 5 on the Hot Jobs list, with a score of +65—the only traditional marketing role currently experiencing growth.Overall, the share of field marketers being hired has risen from 0.17% to 0.25% over the last few years. The trendline shows continued growth into the latter part of this year. Also of note, Pave’s data found that the overall number of companies with a recent field marketer hire has also increased, from 4.83% to 8.35%. This shows that it is not just existing teams expanding this role; companies are building out brand-new functions. Pave The pay premium data is even more compelling. Entry-level employees are commanding new-hire premiums of 106.2%, showing that companies are competing even at the most junior level of this role. Pave Field marketing's rise isn't despite the AI moment—it's because of it. The more automated and impersonal digital marketing becomes, the higher the value of a human who shows up. In-person touchpoints are now scarcer and more valuable, and companies are hiring.Zooming OutThe ripple effects of AI tools and the transformation of work will be felt for years to come. As AI drives role consolidation, it also opens the door for new roles and expanded opportunities in ways yet to be defined. Marketing jobs may very well be the canary in the coal mine, as AI finds ways to automate time-consuming tasks, other job functions will feel the pressure.This story was produced by Pave and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How can accurate financial reporting help secure grants for nonprofits? How can accurate financial reporting help secure grants for nonprofits?Grants are often governed by strict regulatory frameworks, especially those that come from government agencies. State and private grantors also have their own compliance standards and agreement terms. These requirements ensure that nonprofits use grant funds appropriately and effectively. Some grantors offer grants in the form of reimbursements to prevent fund misuse.Regardless of the grant terms, keeping accurate financial reports improves your relationship with the grantor. Your transparency and accountability improve trust and impact your nonprofit’s reputation. Different grant types come with different reporting expectations. Marshall Jones explains how accurate financial reporting increases the chances of grant approval for nonprofits.Key TakeawaysAccurate financial reporting increases your chances of securing grants because it helps you:Comply with relevant regulations.Manage expenses according to grant terms.Present past achievements through tangible and measurable results.Showcase your trustworthiness and avoid penalties or accusations of fraud.Why Is Accurate Financial Reporting Crucial for Nonprofits Seeking Grants? Marshall Jones Accurate financial reporting strengthens your relationships with grantors, auditors and other stakeholders. Here’s how it can help you secure future grants:1. Meets Regulations and Reporting Obligations Set by GrantorsGrants must follow relevant federal and state regulations, especially if they’re provided by government institutions. The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act established the government-wide reporting procedure that requires organizations receiving federal funds to publicly disclose their information. Among other requirements, you need to provide your organization’s name, grant amount, funding agency and location. You also need to report the following:Financial data: The expenses you paid for using federal fundsCompliance information: Information that showcases your compliance with federal regulationsProject data: Your progress report or community impactRelevant agencies may collect this information through regular progress reports, site visits and audits.Specific grant requirements will be found in the Notice of Award. With government grants, you’re required to submit a Federal Financial Report annually, unless you’re receiving domestic awards under the Streamlined Noncompeting Award Process or otherwise stated. When required annually, you may need to submit the report for each budget period up to 90 days after the end of the calendar quarter.Grants can come with other requirements, and their stringency depends on the grant type. Restricted grants can only be used for specific purposes as determined by the grantor, while unrestricted grants can often be used at a nonprofit’s discretion. Whichever grant you have, accurate financial reporting maintains transparency and demonstrates compliance with terms and regulations.2. Assigns Costs to the Appropriate Grants, Programs and Operational CategoriesProperly allocating expenses avoids overspending and fund misuse. Having a paper trail with clear, traceable financial records also makes reporting less stressful when deadlines approach. Maintaining thorough documentation involves keeping receipts, invoices, time sheets and other records that support audits. This data proves your reliability in complying with grant terms.Additionally, grant funds often need to be separated from other funds when tracking spending. You can use unique fund codes when monitoring spending to understand which expenses tie to which grant. This level of granularity improves the accuracy of your statements. It also reflects your nonprofit’s financial position, supporting board decisions and public disclosures.3. Presents How Funding Contributed to the Organization’s AchievementsAlongside financial statements, grants may require performance reports, which involve a combination of quantitative and qualitative data. This performance report demonstrates how the funds have contributed to your projects and whether your activities have benefited the community or the environment. It helps create a well-articulated mission statement that captures your nonprofit’s purpose and strategic direction. You should also define specific project outcomes you wish to achieve and their respective indicators.For instance, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) requires grant recipients to submit a research performance progress report annually as part of the noncompeting continuation award process. Among other requirements, the reports should incorporate:The organization’s accomplishments.Plans for the next year.Produced manuscripts and publications.Involved project personnel.Project challenges, delays and plans to resolve them.Accurate financial and progress reports highlight past achievements and build credibility and stakeholder trust. They tell potential grantors that a nonprofit has made a tangible difference. For instance, you can highlight the number of beneficiaries you’ve served or the number of graduates in your program. Combining qualitative stories with quantitative data enables you to create a strong case for your nonprofit’s mission.4. Avoids Penalties and Funding LossGrant funding is susceptible to fraud, waste and abuse. Inaccurate financial reports raise suspicion about whether you’re using the funds based on the agreement. Using grant funds for personal gain, unjust enrichment or other purposes than their intended use is a form of theft. People involved could be subject to criminal and civil prosecution, where violations can include:False claimsFalse statementsTheft or briberyEmbezzlementMail fraud and wire fraudAccurate financial reports protect your nonprofit and enable you to spot fraud immediately. Regularly reviewing spending, timelines and compliance with grant terms can help you avoid clawbacks, where grantors take back the funds they’ve provided due to noncompliance. These clawbacks are possible for grants with clauses that explain repercussions for unmet conditions and are often nonnegotiable.Additionally, poor financial reporting leads to penalties and failed audits. For instance, the IRS penalizes charities and nonprofits that fail to file their tax return by the due date, costing $20 per day. The same penalty applies for incomplete and incorrect tax returns, with the maximum penalty being the lesser of $10,500 or 5% of the nonprofit’s gross receipts for the year.The Single Audit Act states that grant recipients can be subject to an audit annually to ensure compliance with government regulations. Conducting routine internal reviews, whether monthly, quarterly or during key project milestones, can ensure your spending aligns with grant conditions. Comparing actual expenditures to your budget enables proactive adjustments and prevents overspending or underutilization. Underutilizing funds can also lead to clawbacks.Grant Types and Their Accounting Implications Marshall Jones Some grants come with stricter requirements than others. Payment methods also vary, where some grants pay through reimbursements instead of paying up front. Check the grant terms so you can plan and allocate funds effectively. Grants generally fall under one of the following categories:Government GrantsGovernment grants fund an organization’s ideas or projects that benefit the economy or provide public services. They often support innovative research, critical recovery initiatives and other programs listed in the annual publication of assistance listings. They’re one of the many forms of federal financial assistance. However, they also have the strictest reporting requirements.Government grants come with three award phases:Pre-award phase: This phase includes the grant announcement and the application submissions and review.Award phase: Final award decisions come from the federal agency staff with fiduciary responsibility and legal authority to enter into agreements. They often make award recommendations based on the financial and programmatic reviews of the applications.Post-award phase: Once you receive an award, the federal agency assists and ensures you comply with the grant terms and conditions.Corporate GrantsCorporate grants are provided by companies to nonprofits to support specific missions, initiatives or projects. These grants are often part of the corporate social responsibility initiatives, which also means agreements can include branding or publicity obligations. Companies often award grants based on a nonprofit’s alignment with company goals and community impact objectives.Corporate grants can be part of an ongoing partnership or a one-time donation. They also take different forms:Direct grants: These grants are cash or funding that supports a specific project or program.Matching grants: These grants involve companies matching employee donations on a dollar-for-dollar basis.Challenge grants: These grants involve a company pledging to contribute funds if a nonprofit can raise a specific amount from other sources.In-kind grants: These noncash grants often involve product donations and services that can assist in projects or operations.Getting a corporate grant can increase your nonprofit’s visibility and credibility, especially if the company is well-known and reputable. You can easily build trust with volunteers, donors and other stakeholders, as the award signals that you’re capable of managing significant funding.To increase your chances of approval, you need to demonstrate how you’ve provided tangible results and how you plan to measure success. You also need a detailed budget showcasing how the funds can support your project’s goals. You may have to highlight how your nonprofit can sustain the project after you’ve exhausted the corporate grant.Private GrantsA private grant is funded by foundations or individual donors. It may come with reporting requirements, but tends to be more flexible compared to other grants. Grantors are often willing to provide seed money or general operating support, so you can experiment with new ideas or invest in infrastructure.While private grants have simpler technical requirements, they often have higher relationship gates, where grantors favor nonprofits or organizations with which they have an existing relationship. Networking is often part of an organization’s strategy to secure private grants.Project GrantsProject grants limit funding to specific initiatives or programs. You must often track spending for these grants separately from other sources. Your spending must also align with the approved project scope and timeline. Each grant comes with its own requirements.For instance, a project grant may require projects to be related to a specific field of study. You may also need to demonstrate that your nonprofit has the qualities to complete the project.Operating GrantsAn operating grant is also known as an unrestricted grant, as nonprofits can use this funding to pay for their overhead expenses or general mission. For instance, you can use it for rent, salaries and daily operational expenses. It may have broader conditions than other grants, but still requires careful financial reporting. Because these grants often come from individual donors, there’s typically no standard application process.Operating grants are popular, making the application process competitive and rigorous. Presenting an impeccable track record and demonstrating your trustworthiness through accurate financial reports can increase your chances of approval.How to Ensure Accurate Financial ReportingAccurate financial reporting is feasible by adopting certain strategies:Maintain a centralized documentation system: Having a dedicated location for your financial documents makes it easier to access the right information quickly. This centralization mitigates the risk for human error and helps you avoid missing reporting and filing deadlines.Review and reconcile accounts regularly: Many accounting teams reconcile accounts with long gaps in between sessions or too closely to relevant deadlines. Creating a consistent workflow for account reconciliations improves accuracy and expedites account reviews.Use effective accounting and management tools: Many resources are available to help nonprofits improve financial reporting practices. For instance, a spreadsheet can help you maintain accurate financial records, while budget trackers can help you generate relevant reports. Automation provided by these tools can help you meet grantor deadlines.Leverage accounting services: You don’t always need in-house expertise, which adds to your overhead expenses. Working with professional accounting services can be more cost-effective given their experience, saving you time and resources. These services also help you stay on top of relevant regulations, increasing your chances of securing future grants.Frequently Asked QuestionsNonprofits commonly ask the following questions to further understand grant fund management:What Is Grant Accounting?Grant accounting, also known as grant management accounting, involves tracking how your organization uses the grant funds to make sure you comply with the agreement. Accurate grant accounting enables you to use funds wisely and sustainably, so you can avoid negative repercussions while ensuring that every dollar makes a difference.What Is the Difference Between Fund and Grant Accounting?Fund accounting is the overhead framework, where grant accounting is its subset. Similarly, fund accounting tracks a nonprofit’s financial activities, but instead of focusing on grants, it includes tracking activity across funding sources. For instance, these sources may include individual donations, membership fees and charity crowdfunding. Grant accounting helps ensure you’re spending grant funds according to the terms.What Do Grant Accountants Do?Grant accountants manage your grant funds. Their duties often involve:Tracking grant expenses.Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and grant terms.Preparing financial reports.Supporting audits and grantor reviews.Accurate Financial Reporting Strengthens Trust With GrantorsAccurate financial reporting helps you secure grants, as it demonstrates your nonprofit’s reliability and trustworthiness. It’s often a requirement of grantors, especially for government grants with strict regulations. Without accurate reporting, you risk fund misuse, overspending, clawbacks and even fraud charges.To increase your chances of securing grants, review the grantor’s requirements thoroughly. Financial reporting requirements may also come with performance requirements that showcase the fund’s tangible impact. Having a centralized system and leveraging accounting tools can help with accurate documentation. You can also work with professional accounting services to make the process easier.This story was produced by Marshall Jones and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The benefits of using an ERP system in manufacturing The benefits of using an ERP system in manufacturingManufacturing businesses are becoming increasingly complex as they fight to stay competitive. Managing diverse product lines and expanding business functions to support growth often leads to fragmented tools and outdated data, creating significant operational challenges.To overcome these hurdles, many manufacturers are adopting enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. An ERP centralizes core business operations by integrating key functions onto a single platform, streamlining processes, and providing real-time insights. Comprehensive integration empowers businesses to enhance communication and foster data-driven decision-making across the organization.Use this ArcherPoint by Cherry Bekaert guide to better understand the benefits an ERP can deliver to manufacturing companies.ERP systems for manufacturing businesses at a glanceAn ERP centralizes a manufacturing company’s core business functions.The ERP can either replace or integrate tools used by manufacturing companies.Finding the right solution and provider is key to getting the best results from your ERP.The right partner can make implementing the ERP solution faster and smoother.What is an ERP system, and how does it work in manufacturing?An ERP system serves as a centralized platform that consolidates a business’s critical functions. It achieves this by either integrating existing tools, replacing them, or combining both approaches. The result is a unified operational environment that eliminates the need to toggle between disparate applications and platforms.Besides centralizing many of your business’s functions, such as supply chain management, accounting, and customer relationship management, an ERP can also:Automate manual processes: An ERP system can automate many tasks, such as production tracking, reporting, and customer updates.Create business-wide standards: Rather than having each person set their own standards, an ERP can provide consistent, high-quality output across the entire business.Improve inventory management: Your ERP can provide up-to-date stock levels, ensuring you always have sufficient inventory to fulfill orders.Provide a consistent infrastructure: Since your team will use the same system regardless of their position or responsibilities, an ERP creates cohesion at every level of your business.Connect business data: Your ERP can collate information from various datasets and departments within your business, improving data accessibility and validity.What are the benefits of using an ERP system in manufacturing?While ERP systems offer substantial advantages to businesses across all sizes and industries, they prove particularly transformative for manufacturing operations, leveraging capabilities specifically suited to their complex needs. ArcherPoint Increased transparencyEven a business that promotes a collaborative culture within its team will experience data-sharing and communication issues when each department uses separate platforms for its needs. Data can lose its formatting and become inaccurate, which takes time to fix.Similarly, if a team member needs information from a platform they don’t have access to or familiarity with, they have to wait for a different team member to assist. This wastes time and decreases efficiency. An ERP system eliminates these problems. By integrating everything into a single platform, you can provide everyone with access to the information they need to make informed decisions.Decreased costsFor manufacturing businesses, boosting profitability hinges on both increasing revenue and effectively decreasing costs. An ERP system facilitates significant cost reductions through several key avenues, including:Fewer software subscriptions: Since an ERP solution provides so many functions, it will likely mean you can cancel subscriptions for software that provides the same functions as your ERP.Faster, informed decision-making: When information is time-sensitive, being able to act quickly with the most current information can make all the difference in how much revenue you generate or costs you cut.Simpler IT maintenance: Rather than managing perhaps dozens of applications and platforms, your information technology team can focus on your ERP system.Accurate job pricing: By providing up-to-date cost information, your ERP enables you to confidently set job prices at your desired margins. It also helps to minimize waste by optimizing resource allocation and production processes.Collectively, these factors contribute to a leaner, more efficient operation, directly impacting your bottom line.Increased efficiencyA leading benefit of leveraging an ERP is that it speeds up many manual tasks by eliminating data barriers and providing a user-friendly interface. This makes it easier to access and share information.The ERP can also automate many tasks that may otherwise have to be completed manually, such as pulling reports, managing production schedules, and streamlining quality checks. By relieving your team from repetitive tasks that require minimal decision-making, you give them the freedom to focus on tasks that require more strategy and consideration.Your ERP can also provide accurate estimates of how long tasks will take, helping you better plan your team’s time. This applies to your machines, too, allowing you to minimize idle time and ensure maximum output. Plus, it can optimize your labor and material utilization, further improving your business’s efficiency.Real-time operational visibilityIt’s often said that information is everything, and this is especially true for a manufacturing company. ERPs can provide live data reports on demand, rather than waiting days or weeks for someone to manually pull a report from historical data. With this real-time visibility over your entire business, you can make timely decisions based on the best data possible.Beyond making decisions for the present, fast access to current data also makes looking to the future easier. User-friendly dashboards and customizable reports based on live data make it easier to forecast your finances for upcoming months and years. This foresight allows you to better plan for the future and meet your long-term business goals.Increased scalabilityThanks to automation, an ERP can help you quickly scale your processes up or down as needed without major changes to your operations. For a manufacturing company, this could mean pulling reports on larger inventory quantities or calculating the most efficient way to buy materials as production levels increase. Whichever way your business is scaling up, there’s a reduced need to hire additional personnel, increase costs, or decrease efficiency as you grow.Since you can easily add new functions and modules to your ERP, you can easily diversify your business functions and products, too.Robust compliance managementWhile an ERP system cannot guarantee compliance or identify specific regulatory requirements, it provides the tools and framework to significantly streamline your operations toward meeting the standards your business targets.When you implement an ERP, you can create workflows and add checks that help your team to comply with various aspects of any relevant standards as they carry out their duties. An ERP can also provide audit trails to serve as proof of compliance with standards or as an internal check to ensure your company is operating in accordance with them. These capabilities can be crucial aspects of certain standards, such as ISO certification and environmental guidelines.An ERP can also offer security features that help you meet data protection standards. It can protect your customer and business data from both internal and external threats while helping your business comply with data protection laws.Enhanced customer satisfactionSince an ERP can help your business operate more efficiently, you’re ultimately better able to meet your customers’ needs. Customers can benefit from your ERP through:Competitive pricingAccurate time estimatesTimely order updatesSince your customer support team will have access to all your business information, they’ll also be able to answer any customer query without having to ask another department for the relevant information.Plus, an ERP can enhance your data protection measures, so your customers can rest easy knowing their information is well-protected.How to choose the right ERP system for your manufacturing businessGiven the unique operational demands of each manufacturing business and the diverse capabilities of ERP solutions, selecting the system that aligns with your specific needs is crucial. ArcherPoint 1. Determine your functional requirementsWhether you’re implementing an ERP for the first time or switching from an existing ERP that doesn’t meet your needs as well as you’d hoped, you need to review which functions you’d like your system to provide.While core accounting and finance capabilities are standard for most manufacturing businesses, it’s crucial to actively determine how your ERP will support and enhance other vital areas, such as supply chain and customer relationship management.2. Ensure your ERP can integrate with your existing systemsIf your goal is to integrate your ERP with existing software rather than replacing it, prioritize solutions with robust integration capabilities. While many ERPs connect with popular business applications, this isn’t universally true for all programs. It is crucial to thoroughly verify compatibility with all your current systems before committing to implementation.Failure to integrate effectively can lead to significant compromises. You might be forced to acquire alternative software, rely on the ERP’s native modules, or undertake time-consuming manual data transfers to successfully maintain centralized data.3. Decide between a cloud or on-premise ERPYour ERP can be deployed on-site or in the cloud, with remote hosting by your provider. You can also choose a hybrid option.Each has its own benefits, so it’s essential to evaluate which one best meets your needs. While on-site ERP solutions can provide better data and system control, cloud-based ERP solutions can typically be:Deployed faster.Updated more frequently and with less disruption to the business.Accessed more easily on a mobile device.With cloud-based ERPs, your manufacturing business will also have the freedom to choose the solution that works best for them, regardless of your location. However, when you choose an on-site solution, you may be limited to an ERP provider that operates in your area.4. Find a partner to help with your ERPBeyond selecting your ideal ERP solution, securing the right implementation partner is crucial for success. An experienced and knowledgeable partner enhances the entire ERP journey, transforming a complex undertaking into a streamlined, efficient process.They offer invaluable strategic guidance and technical expertise, ensuring your investment yields maximum returns. A dedicated ERP partner delivers several distinct advantages:Optimal solution alignment: They leverage their deep industry and product knowledge to help you not just choose, but also configure, the ERP solution that aligns with your unique operational workflows and strategic business objectives.Proactive risk mitigation: ERP implementations can be complex and may introduce challenges, from unforeseen technical issues to user adoption challenges. An expert partner anticipates these common obstacles, guiding you away from costly mistakes and ensuring a smoother transition.Accelerated deployment and go-live: With their specialized methodologies and experienced teams, partners can shorten the deployment timeline, getting your new system operational faster and enabling your business to realize its benefits sooner.Comprehensive user empowerment: Beyond technical setup, a partner’s key role is to empower your team. They provide tailored training and support, ensuring your employees are proficient and confident in utilizing the new ERP program effectively from day one.Understanding these benefits underscores the value of an ERP partner. For detailed guidance on selecting the best partner for your manufacturing business, refer to the following section.How to find the right ERP partnerFinding the right partner for your ERP implementation can be the difference between a fast and successful deployment and an imperfect alignment with your business. To judge whether an ERP partner is right for you, consider their:Experience: An ERP partner who has successfully helped other businesses implement their ERP is likely to deliver the same for your business.Reviews: The opinions and experiences of an ERP partner’s past clients will shed light on what you could expect from them.Industry expertise: Many ERP partners specialize in particular industries. A partner with strong knowledge of the manufacturing sector will be better placed to help your company implement its ERP. Embrace the advantages of an ERP in your manufacturing businessTo address manufacturing complexity, ERP systems centralize operations, driving efficiency and enabling informed decisions. Achieving these benefits requires strategic planning — defining needs, ensuring integration, selecting a deployment approach, and partnering with specialists.With informed choices and expert guidance, your business can streamline operations, optimize resources, and secure a lasting competitive edge.This story was produced by ArcherPoint and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Moles vs. birthmarks: What's normal and what warrants a check Moles vs. birthmarks: What's normal and what warrants a checkMost people have spots on their skin they've never thought much about. A cluster of brown dots on the shoulder, a faint blue-gray patch on the lower back, and a bright red bump that appeared in infancy. These marks are common, and the vast majority are completely harmless. But knowing what each one is, and when its appearance should prompt a conversation with a doctor, is genuinely useful information.Below, Doctronic explains what’s normal and what needs attention when it comes to moles and birthmarks.Key TakeawaysMost adults have 10 to 40 moles, most of which are benign and stable throughout life.Birthmarks fall into two categories: pigmented (café-au-lait spots, Mongolian spots) and vascular (hemangiomas, port-wine stains).The ABCDE checklist (asymmetry, border, color, diameter, evolving) is the standard tool for self-evaluating a mole.Additional warning signs include bleeding without injury, persistent itching, crusting, the "ugly duckling" sign, and any new mole appearing after age 40.Sun protection, monthly self-exams, and annual dermatology screenings (for high-risk individuals) are the core of prevention and early detection.What Are Moles?Moles are skin growths that form when melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in your skin, cluster together rather than spread out evenly. They appear after birth, usually beginning to show up in childhood and continuing to develop through about age 35. Most adults have somewhere between 10 and 40 moles, the majority of which appear on skin that gets regular sun exposure: the face, neck, arms, and upper back.In their typical form, moles are round or oval, evenly colored (tan, brown, or nearly black), and no larger than a pencil eraser. They can be flat or slightly raised. Most stay the same throughout a person's life, though they may gradually lighten or become less prominent with age.A small percentage of the population, roughly 2% to 8% of Americans, has what are called atypical or dysplastic moles. These are larger than average, have irregular borders, and may display more than one color within the same spot. Having atypical moles doesn't mean cancer is present, but it does mean those moles warrant ongoing monitoring.What Are Birthmarks?Birthmarks are marks present on the skin at birth or appearing within the first few weeks of life. They fall into two main categories based on their cause.Pigmented BirthmarksPigmented birthmarks result from an overgrowth of pigment cells in a localized area.Café-au-lait spots are flat, light brown patches that can appear anywhere on the body. The name comes from French and roughly translates to "coffee with milk," which describes their color accurately. They're common and usually harmless on their own, though a large number of them (typically more than six) can sometimes be associated with a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis.Mongolian spots, now more often called congenital dermal melanocytosis in clinical settings, appear as blue-gray patches, most commonly on the lower back or buttocks. They're more prevalent in people with darker skin tones, are present from birth, and in most cases fade entirely by adolescence.Vascular BirthmarksVascular birthmarks are caused by abnormal blood vessels near the skin's surface.Hemangiomas are raised, bright red marks sometimes called "strawberry hemangiomas" because of their appearance. They're not typically present at birth but usually appear within the first few weeks of life and grow rapidly before slowing down. Most hemangiomas shrink on their own and are gone by ages 7 to 10 without any treatment.Port-wine stains are flat birthmarks that range in color from pale pink to deep red or even purple. Unlike hemangiomas, they are permanent and tend to darken and thicken over time. They appear most often on the face and neck, and some individuals choose to treat them with laser therapy for cosmetic reasons or because of associated health concerns.ABCDE: The Mole Evaluation ChecklistDermatologists use the ABCDE checklist as a practical framework for evaluating whether a mole shows signs that should be looked at more closely.Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other.Border: The edges are ragged, notched, or blurred rather than smooth and defined.Color: There are multiple shades within the mole (brown, black, red, white, or blue).Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser.Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or texture, or a new symptom like bleeding or itching has appeared.No single criterion is a definitive alarm, but any one of them is reason to book a dermatology appointment rather than wait.Warning Signs That Go Beyond the ChecklistThe ABCDE framework focuses on visual characteristics, but there are other warning signs worth knowing.A mole that bleeds without any injury, itches persistently, crusts over, or develops a scab should be evaluated. These are signs that something may be happening beneath the surface.The "ugly duckling" sign is a useful self-examination concept: Most moles on a person tend to look similar to each other. A mole that looks noticeably different from all your others, the "ugly duckling" in the group, stands out for a reason and deserves attention even if it doesn't meet the classic ABCDE criteria.Any new mole appearing after age 40 is worth showing to a dermatologist. While new moles can form throughout life, they become less common as people age, and a spot that appears later in life should be examined.Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society projects approximately 112,000 new melanoma cases in 2026, around 65,000 of which are expected to be invasive. Early detection remains one of the most important factors in treatment outcomes.What to Do About BirthmarksMost birthmarks require no treatment at all. They're benign, and for the majority of people, the only decision is whether to leave them alone or pursue cosmetic treatment if they're in a visible location or affect confidence.Port-wine stains and large congenital melanocytic nevi, a type of pigmented birthmark, may be monitored over time because of a slightly increased risk of changes. A pediatrician or dermatologist can advise on whether any follow-up is appropriate.If a birthmark changes in color, texture, or size, or if it develops raised areas, irregular edges, or new symptoms, those changes should be brought to a doctor's attention.Prevention and Monitoring RoutinesSun protection reduces the risk of mole development and lowers the overall risk of skin cancer. Daily use of SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, protective clothing such as wide-brim hats and long sleeves during peak hours, and avoiding tanning beds all reduce cumulative UV exposure.Monthly self-exams using a full-length mirror and a hand mirror to check hard-to-see areas help build familiarity with what your skin normally looks like. That baseline is what makes it easier to notice something new or changing.Annual skin screenings with a dermatologist are recommended for people at higher risk: those with a family history of melanoma, a personal history of atypical moles, fair skin that burns easily, or significant past sun exposure. For lower-risk individuals, speaking with a primary care provider about the right screening interval is a reasonable starting point.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre moles and birthmarks the same thing?No. Moles form after birth when melanocytes cluster together, while birthmarks are present at or shortly after birth and result from either an overgrowth of pigment cells or abnormal blood vessels. They have different causes and different patterns of development.Can a mole turn into melanoma?Most moles never become cancerous. However, melanoma can arise within an existing mole or as a new spot on normal-appearing skin. Atypical moles carry a slightly higher risk, which is why they're monitored. Using the ABCDE checklist and reporting changes to a dermatologist is the most reliable way to catch problems early.When do hemangiomas go away?Most hemangiomas begin to shrink by around age 1 and continue fading through childhood. The majority are fully gone or significantly reduced by ages 7 to 10. Some may leave behind minor changes in skin texture or color, and in some cases, a doctor may recommend earlier treatment if the hemangioma is near the eye, mouth, or airways.Does SPF 30 sunscreen really prevent new moles?Sunscreen reduces the cumulative UV exposure that contributes to new mole formation and to melanoma risk. It doesn't guarantee that no new moles will ever appear, but consistent use from childhood onward meaningfully lowers the overall burden of UV damage to the skin.What does the "ugly duckling" sign mean?The term refers to a mole that looks distinctly different from the other moles on your body. Most moles on any one person share a similar general appearance. One that stands out from the rest, in size, color, shape, or feel, is worth having examined even if it doesn't fit the classic ABCDE warning criteria.Is it normal to get new moles as an adult?New moles can appear through about age 35 and occasionally beyond, but the rate slows with age. A new mole appearing after age 40 should be checked by a dermatologist, since new spots later in life are less common and warrant evaluation to rule out a concerning change.The Bottom LineMoles and birthmarks are a normal part of human skin, and the vast majority will never cause any health problems. The difference between something harmless and something that needs attention usually comes down to change: A spot that looks different from how it looked before, or a new mark that doesn't look like anything else on your body, is the one worth bringing to a doctor.This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The rise of jojoba oil: Why it's becoming more popular in skincare formulas The rise of jojoba oil: Why it’s becoming more popular in skincare formulasAs consumers pay closer attention to what goes on their skin, jojoba oil has become one of the most trusted ingredients in modern skincare, valued for its versatility, compatibility with the skin, and ability to support hydration without heaviness.Most shoppers today already carry a mental list of what they want on their skin and what they'd rather avoid. They're checking labels with the same attention they give to food packaging, scanning for ingredients they recognize and skipping past anything they can't pronounce.Research shows interest in skincare topics has doubled over the past five years, and a growing part of that is people trimming their routines down to fewer products built around ingredients they understand and benefits they can see.Dermatologist Dr. Emma Craythorne told Vogue that today's shopper has gotten a lot more specific about what they expect. "Consumers are no longer satisfied with vague promises of glow and hydration," she said. "They want to understand mechanisms, data and longevity."Jojoba oil has become one of the ingredients consumers keep coming back to, and as Ogee, a Vermont-based certified organic beauty brand, explores below, the reasons behind it go deeper than good marketing.What Makes Jojoba Oil UniqueDespite being called an oil, jojoba is technically a liquid wax, and that puts it in a class of its own among plant-based ingredients. Most plant-based oils are made up of fats, but jojoba's makeup closely mirrors the natural oils your skin already produces on its own.Dermatologist Alok Vij of the Cleveland Clinic describes it as "very close in composition to your skin's normal sebum, or the normal oil secreted by your skin." Because of that natural compatibility, jojoba absorbs readily without leaving a heavy or greasy film behind, and that is what separates it from most other plant-based oils people are used to reaching for.Why It Works Across Skin TypesPart of what makes jojoba oil so relevant to today's skincare conversation is how consistently it holds up across different skin types. Part of what makes jojoba oil so relevant to today's skincare conversation is how consistently it performs across different skin types. For people with dry skin, jojoba oil is valued for its ability to help reduce moisture loss and support the skin's natural barrier without the heavy or greasy feel associated with some other oils.Oily skin tends to respond well for a different reason entirely. Dr. Vij has noted that jojoba won't overhydrate the skin or make it feel oilier, and because it doesn't clog pores, it holds up well even for those who are acne-prone.Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian also points to how well it tends to be tolerated by people with more sensitive or reactive skin, which is part of why it continues to get recommended across so many different skin profiles.A Multi-Functional Skincare StapleSkincare enthusiasts and experts tend to agree that jojoba oil rarely gets put to just one use. It shows up in moisturizers and facial oils, where its ability to attract and hold moisture makes it a reliable base. It also works well in cleansing oils and makeup removers, where its mix of fatty acids helps lift away oil-based buildup without leaving the skin feeling stripped.Beyond the face, it finds its way into lip treatments, body oils, and hair care, which is part of why consumers cutting down their routines keep returning to it.Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, describes it as "an emollient oil commonly used in moisturizers and cleansing oils" with hydrating and skin-soothing benefits that hold up across a wide range of uses.The Role of Jojoba in Modern FormulationsBeyond what consumers see on the shelf, jojoba oil has become a go-to foundation for formulators building clean, plant-based products.Its natural stability and long shelf life make it a reliable base, which is part of why brands working within certified organic standards tend to look to it first. It also pairs naturally with other botanical ingredients, helping carry their benefits into the skin rather than leaving them on the surface.Dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Libby of Brown Dermatology notes that oils like jojoba, because of how closely they mirror the skin's own natural oils, can help support the skin's lipid balance, making it a strong fit for formulas built around how skin actually behaves.Clean Beauty and the Appeal of SimplicityKeeping a clean, simple skincare routine has become less of a lifestyle choice and more of a standard expectation.Consumers are pushing back on long, unrecognizable ingredient lists and gravitating toward products built around things they can actually understand. Nearly half of consumers now say they prioritize 100% pure and natural ingredients, and 45% specifically seek out non-toxic or clean formulations when shopping.Jojoba oil checks both of those boxes in a pretty direct way. It's a single, plant-based ingredient with a name people recognize, and it does enough on its own that consumers don't feel the need to stack it with a dozen other products to see results.Given that the FDA still does not regulate terms like "clean" or "natural" in beauty, a verifiable, recognizable ingredient carries more weight than any marketing label.What This Means for the Future of SkincareNobody reaches for a skincare product thinking about its chemistry, but more people than ever are thinking carefully about what's actually in it. Beauty has moved closer to wellness, and with that comes a level of personal investment that goes well beyond the bathroom shelf.The global jojoba oil market is projected to reach $255.5 million by 2033, and the demand powering that growth is coming from people who are paying closer attention to their skin health than any generation before them.Jojoba oil has earned that place because it delivers on what it promises, and for a consumer who now treats their skincare with the same care they give to everything else that touches their body, that kind of reliability is hard to walk away from.This story was produced by Ogee and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	Make the money moves that actually hold up when markets don’t Make the money moves that actually hold up when markets don’tWhen the market gets shaky, the instinct is to do something. Check your portfolio, read the news, move things around. Mostly, that just wastes your time and sometimes costs you money.What actually helps is having a setup that doesn’t require you to react, Intuit TurboTax reports.Look at your debt without judgmentSit down one evening and write down every debt: the balance owed, interest rate, and minimum payment. That’s the whole exercise.The actual numbers are usually more actionable than a rough mental estimate. Plus, guessing just causes anxiety you don’t need.Focus on making extra payments on the highest interest rate items first, usually credit cards at 20–25% APR. A card at 22% is costing you more than almost any investment that is creating income for you. Paying the credit card balance down is a guaranteed return.Think about setting up an automatic payment once a week, say Fridays, that’s more than the interest. It doesn’t have to be a dramatic amount, just something you can afford that drives down the balance (and doesn’t just pay the interest).Pause and review big purchasesBefore making any major purchase, check to see if the pricing and financing terms still make sense given current market conditions.What felt like a reasonable car payment or appliance financing plan six months ago may look different today if interest rates have shifted or your income has become less predictable. A brief pause to compare options and confirm the terms still work in your favor is one of the simplest ways to protect your financial foundation during uncertain times.Automate one thing and stop decidingThe goal isn’t to make better money decisions every week. It’s to make fewer decisions in total.Set up a small automatic transfer to savings or investments — even $50 or $75 — on a set schedule. When it runs on its own, you stop debating whether you can afford it. It just happens automatically.And if your income isn’t steady, use percentages instead: 50% to bills, 20% to spending, 20% to debt, 10% to investing. Everything works together automatically.Keep your investments simpleVolatile markets generate a lot of opinions. Most aren’t worth acting on.Broad diversified funds are low-cost, require no stock-picking, and don’t need your attention every week. These include stock market indexes that are used by many firms to diversify investments for individuals, but they provide a safe balance without being too aggressive or conservative. Unflashy, but genuinely solid investments.What’s the money for? Long-term money can ride out a downturn in the economy. But short-term money used to cover anything you might need in the next year or two, shouldn’t be in the market at all. Keep those buckets separate, and a bad month won’t force your hand.If you’re wondering whether now is a bad time to start, the market will always give you a reason to wait. There’s just no perfect timing. Think of it this way: Time in the market matters more than timing the market.Retirement planningIf you qualify, Roth IRA and Roth 403(b) plans can be two of your smartest retirement moves. Many Roth IRA accounts give you the option of selecting diversified investment options from aggressive to conservative investments that grow over time. They’re tax-advantaged accounts that provide you the opportunity to grow your savings tax-free.And, if you are also considering a 401(k), check out this article, which compares Roth IRAs to 401(k) accounts.Know what triggers a tax billUnderstanding capital gains rates and resisting the urge to react to market swings can save you significantly come tax time.When you sell an investment at a gain, that’s taxable income. Hold it under a year and it’s taxed at your ordinary tax rate. Over a year and it’s taxed at capital gains rates, which are lower than your ordinary income tax rate.This is worth knowing before a rough market month tempts you to move everything around. Reacting fast can cost you twice: once on the sale and once on the taxes.Also, keep in mind that dividends and reinvested interest also count as taxable income in the year you receive them, even if you never touch the money.You’re closer than you thinkList your debts.Automate one transfer.Put long-term money somewhere diversified and leave it alone.Know the tax consequences before you sell.Those are the most important things to think about. No perfect timing required, just a few quiet habits doing their thing, regardless of an uncertain market.This story was produced by Intuit TurboTax and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to travel this summer on a budget How to travel this summer on a budgetWhen school’s out and the sun is shining, many of us get excited for summer travel. But nowadays, the cost of a trip can seem prohibitive.According to a new survey of 5,000 Americans commissioned by Current, a consumer fintech banking platform, and conducted by Talker Research, four in 10 respondents are skipping summer travel due to budget constraints.. For those who aren’t planning to travel, most (52%) said they’re not able to afford a trip, and 21% highlighted concerns around the rising costs of travel.But there are ways to explore new places while on a budget. Here’s how you can travel this summer without breaking the bank.1. Be flexibleIf you’re heading to a wedding or friend’s birthday, you may not be able to choose when or where you’re traveling. But if you can be flexible, it often pays off. Shifting your dates to August can help you save upward of 23% this year, says Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going.“August is typically when summer travel starts to fade,” Nastro says. “This year, we are seeing savings of $175 per ticket traveling the last two full weeks of August versus any time in June. This can really add up for families who are looking to still take advantage of a summer vacation but can be slightly strategic when they travel.”Where you look can matter this year more than ever.“We all have bucket list destinations on our ever-growing wish lists, but sometimes, the strategy to savings is letting the deal decide,” Nastro says. “Try focusing on destinations in the southern Caribbean, coastal Mexico or even the southeast, as we are still seeing savings to destinations like Orlando for just $144 roundtrip this June from New York.”As of mid-May, she says some deals are still available across summer dates, including Washington D.C. to Cabo San Lucas for $350 (50% off) and Indianapolis to Grand Cayman Island for $301 (55% off).You could also opt for a shorter “microbreak” that’s just a few days or a staycation to see your own home in a way. The survey found that 22% of travelers are planning to explore their own city or state, and another 22% will be traveling for a shorter amount of time.2. Consider main economyMany of us look for the cheapest airfare when booking a flight. But opting for main economy instead of basic economy may pay off for two reasons: price drops and better boarding with a bag.Nastro says to take advantage of any savings this year that may happen, even if that means your flight price drops by $25. If you book a basic economy ticket, you won’t be able to take advantage of getting that $25 back in the form of a flight credit to use in the future. But book with the main economy, and you can take advantage of a price drop. (With a basic economy ticket, you typically can’t make changes. You’re locked into the initial price you paid.)Another reason to consider the main economy ticket this year is to get a better boarding position so your bag doesn't get gate-checked, Nastro adds.“With higher bag fees across most U.S. airlines, people will be looking for ways to cut down on checked bags, which means more carry-ons, yet only so much carry-on space,” she says.3. Consider driving instead of flyingFlying is more expensive this year than last, due in part to soaring costs for jet fuel. The average price for domestic airfare as of May 4, 2026, was $380, according to data from Kayak. That’s significantly more than the $290 it was during the same time last year.But that doesn't mean you can't plan a fun memorable vacation. You can drive instead.“Look up places to visit within a day's driving distance to ensure you don't have to travel too far,” consumer finance expert Andrea Woroch recommends, adding that you can use the RoadTripper's app to find sights to visit along the way.Of course gas isn’t cheap right now either: The average driver in the U.S. was paying $4.53 per gallon as of May 14, with drivers in states such as California and Nevada paying more than $5 per gallon, according to AAA. Woroch says to use the Gas Buddy app for help tracking down cheaper gas along your route.4. Strategically use discount gift cardsYou can buy discount gift cards for up to 30% off to restaurants, spas, theme parks like Disney and more to use on your trip to cut costs, Woroch says. You can find gift cards for everything from Southwest Airlines to Panera Bread at warehouse retailers such as Costco and Sam’s Club and on online marketplaces (just make sure they’re reputable). You can also earn free gift cards to use on your trip to cut travel costs toward restaurants, hotels, transportation and activities like TopGolf by using the Fetch app, Woroch adds. It requires uploading photos of your receipts to earn points toward gift cards for a variety of companies, including Uber and Airbnb.5. Consider a new credit cardTravel can often equate to spending more than you typically would — even if you budget. Because of that, you may want to consider opening a new credit card (or secured charge card) to earn rewards on your spending that will help you save in other ways.“Ahead of your summer trip, opening a new credit card is a great way to earn rewards toward your trip,” Woroch says. “Whether that's free cash, points or miles that you can redeem for flights, car rentals, hotels or toward savings.”6. Save elsewhereFigure out where in your budget you can cut back or which daily or weekly splurges you can live without temporarily and put the money you save toward your summer vacation savings.“I say temporarily because it's easier to make a cut when you think about it as a temporary move that you can add back in,” Woroch says. “This could look like cancelling some subscription services or cutting back on take out and cooking at home more or forgoing coffee runs and brewing it at home. Every little bit adds up.”Where you save matters too. If you funnel the extra cash into a traditional savings account, you’ll only earn miniscule interest on your earnings. But if you open a high-yield savings account, your money will work for you even while it’s sitting idly.This story was produced by Current and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Pakistan ends 'luxury tax' on menstrual products, contraceptives. Will prices drop? In Pakistan, taxes on menstrual products can add up. Activists have long worked to change this. Now a new budget wipes out the 18% sales tax. But questions remain about the impact on prices.
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	Tree blocks 12th Avenue, Moline A post on the Moline Police Department's Facebook page says high winds have caused a tree to fall into the roadway on 12th Avenue, east of 19th Street. 12th Avenue will be closed between 19th and 25th Streets while Moline Public Works clears the area. Drivers are asked to use alternate routes around the area.
	Many homeowners feel traditional lenders don't have their best interests at heart. New data explains why. Many homeowners feel traditional lenders don't have their best interests at heart. New data explains why.A new survey of 1,000 U.S. homeowners reveals a striking disconnect between how the financial industry designs home equity products — and how homeowners actually experience them. The gap has real consequences for both sides.The findings, from an October 2025 survey conducted by Hometap, show that the majority of homeowners approach equity financing through a lens of emotional stress, income uncertainty, and a desire for flexibility. While most lenders lead with rate comparisons and amortization tables, homeowners are actually looking for an empathetic financial partner.Homeowners Tap Into Equity Because Life Happens — Not Because the Timing Is RightHomeowners rarely access equity as part of a pre-planned financial strategy. Instead, they’re usually responding to unexpected life events: a job loss, a parent needing care, an upcoming college tuition bill, a failing HVAC system, or a growing family.According to the survey, 65% of homeowners said their primary concern when financing home expenses is covering unexpected costs. The implication is significant: The majority of people reaching for home equity products need tools that can adapt to unpredictable circumstances, not ones with rigid structures built for stable, predictable financial situations. Hometap Generational differences are pronounced. Millennials and Gen X reported notably lower confidence in traditional products than baby boomers and expressed stronger demand for flexible alternatives. Among millennials specifically, 71% said that a lack of financing flexibility adds to their financial stress, compared to 52% of baby boomers. That gap is consistent with broader research: The NAR's 2025 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report found that younger millennials carry the highest rates of student debt among all homebuying generations, shaping a distinct set of financial priorities centered on cost management and versatility.8 in 10 Homeowners Don't Trust Traditional LendersThe survey's most striking finding: 81% of homeowners agreed that traditional lenders don't have their best interests at heart. Hometap That distrust has direct market consequences. According to the survey data, 20% of homeowners have avoided traditional home equity products entirely due to rising rates and costs, while another 11% have delayed using them. When faced with a major funding need, only 8% said they would choose a home equity line of credit (HELOC) first, and just 5% said they would turn first to a traditional home equity loan.Financial decisions often coincide with vulnerable moments — a job transition, a family crisis, a home emergency. When homeowners believe the lender across the table is optimizing for its own returns rather than theirs, avoidance becomes a rational response.What Homeowners Are Actually Asking ForThe survey found that 39% of homeowners said lower fees and closing costs were their top priority when choosing a financing product. The majority, 78%, said they wished there were more flexible options for accessing home equity without monthly payments. Among millennials, that figure rose to nearly 4 in 5."Flexible" in this context means a range of things: adjustable terms, the ability to pause payments when circumstances change, or alternative structures without a fixed monthly commitment. The survey found that 64% say the lack of flexibility adds to their financial stress.Meanwhile, 72% of respondents described the traditional home equity application process as outdated and difficult. More than a quarter said that if traditional options don't meet their needs, they would seek alternative or innovative financing solutions. Hometap Hometap The Trade-offs of Alternative ProductsOne category drawing growing interest is home equity investments (HEIs), which allow homeowners to receive a lump sum in exchange for a share of the property's future value — with no monthly payments required during the investment term.The trade-off is real and worth understanding clearly. If home prices appreciate significantly, the homeowner may give up more long-term value than a traditional loan would have cost, so HEIs are not the right fit for every situation.For homeowners with stable income who can comfortably carry a monthly payment and want to retain full upside on their home's appreciation, traditional products often make sound financial sense. But for homeowners managing income volatility, navigating a job transition, or prioritizing near-term cash flow, trading some future appreciation for financial breathing room can be a rational choice.The data suggests the industry has too often treated traditional products as a one-size-fits-all solution — a posture that may be accelerating the trust deficit. Hometap A Market Signal Lenders Can't IgnoreThe survey data reflects a market in transition. Three-quarters of homeowners said the industry needs new types of financing beyond traditional mortgages, HELOCs, and home equity loans. The generation most critical of current products — millennials — will shape the housing market for the next several decades.Lenders that design products around how people actually live, rather than how financial models assume they live, may find themselves better positioned to capture a share of a market that is actively looking for alternatives.Methodology: Hometap surveyed 1,000 homeowners in the U.S. ages 18 and older through AYTM (Ask Your Target Market) in October 2025.This story was produced by Hometap and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	US Supreme Court’s uneven rulings in election lead-up causing chaos, experts say US Supreme Court’s uneven rulings in election lead-up causing chaos, experts sayWhen the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Texas’ gerrymandered congressional map to take effect in December, its conservative majority wrote that a lower court had “improperly inserted itself into an active primary campaign” when it blocked the map more than three months before the election.Now, as News From the States examines here, the Supreme Court is the one upending elections.For the past two decades, the Supreme Court has advanced the idea that federal courts should not order major changes close to an election to limit voter confusion. Over time the doctrine, first articulated in the 2006 case Purcell vs. Gonzalez, became known as the Purcell principle.But election law experts and one of the court’s liberal justices say the Supreme Court is wielding — or disregarding — the principle unevenly in ways that aid Republicans.In recent weeks, the Supreme Court has effectively allowed last-minute election changes in Southern states that hold major consequences for what districts voters are assigned to and the future of Black political representation across the region.These Republican-controlled states are racing to redraw congressional maps to eliminate majority-Black districts, many of which have elected Black Democrats to Congress. The gerrymandering rush has come even with early voting underway in some states.Wilfred Codrington III, a professor of law at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York, who has studied the Purcell principle, said limiting voter confusion is common sense. But after that general idea, the principle “just falls apart” because the Supreme Court has never answered questions raised by the doctrine — like how close to an election is too close.“The court has not thought through them and it seems like when the court applies them, they’re being applied in partisan ways,” Codrington said, about questions the doctrine raises.April ruling OK’d redistrictingAfter the high court gutted the federal Voting Rights Act in Callais, a landmark decision on April 29 that found Louisiana’s map unconstitutional, it fast-tracked paperwork so the state could quickly redraw district lines.Voting had begun in the state’s congressional primary election, which Republican Gov. Jeff Landry suspended, discarding 42,000 votes already cast.A majority of the court voted to immediately certify its decision instead of observing its typical 32-day waiting period. In a blistering dissent, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote that the justices were disregarding their previous insistence that courts shouldn’t risk assuming political responsibility for a redistricting process that often produces hard feelings.“There is also the so-called Purcell principle, which we invoked only five months ago to chide a federal district court for ‘improperly insert[ing] itself into an active primary campaign,’” Jackson wrote. “The Court unshackles itself from both constraints today and dives into the fray. And just like that, those principles give way to power.”The conservative justices on May 11 then cleared a path for Alabama to move toward implementing a Republican gerrymander that state lawmakers approved in 2023 but was blocked by a lower court. Their decision came a little more than a week before the state’s primary election.Republican Gov. Kay Ivey has called an August special primary election for some of the state’s congressional districts.“The United States Supreme Court’s decision is plain common sense and enables our values to be best represented in Congress,” Ivey said in a statement.‘Like it doesn’t exist’The Supreme Court’s actions this spring stand in stark contrast to its December decision to allow Texas’ gerrymander to take effect. After President Donald Trump urged GOP states to redraw their maps for partisan advantage, Texas was the first state to respond, enacting new lines that could help Republicans pick up five seats.A three-judge district court panel ruled against the map, finding that it was racially gerrymandered. The Supreme Court paused the panel’s decision, finding that the panel likely made serious errors and that the district court was “causing much confusion and upsetting the delicate federal-state balance in elections” amid the campaign season.That language echoed the Purcell decision, which found that an appeals court had erred in blocking an Arizona law requiring a photo ID to register to vote. The Supreme Court’s unsigned opinion cautioned that court orders affecting elections can cause voter confusion.“As an election draws closer, that risk will increase,” the 2006 opinion said.Nearly 20 years later, the Supreme Court made no mention of Purcell in its Callais opinion, which dropped like a political bomb across the South. Since the decision, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, South Carolina and Tennessee have either enacted new maps or are seeking to do so ahead of the November midterm elections.Mark Johnson, a Kansas City-based lawyer with a long history of working on election litigation, noted that Callais was argued at the Supreme Court twice, first in March 2025 and again in October. The justices then waited a long time before releasing their decision, he said, adding that if they didn’t realize the implications of their ruling they were “asleep at the wheel.”“That’s why the Callais case is so disturbing, because a Supreme Court that has by and large followed Purcell just acted like it doesn’t exist,” Johnson said. Ashley Murray // States Newsroom Court legitimacy at stakeSeveral high-profile observers of the Supreme Court have been unsparing in their criticism of the justices’ approach.Steve Vladeck, a professor of law at the Georgetown University Law Center and a foremost expert on the court, wrote in an online post that the court’s recent decisions “fatally undermine” the animating purpose of the Purcell principle.“The Court’s own interventions are now wreaking havoc—and a majority of the justices either don’t think it’s their fault, or don’t care that it is. Either way, they don’t seem to mind the inconsistency—in a context in which it’s having the remarkably coincidental effect of benefiting Republicans,” Vladeck wrote.Rick Hasen, a professor at UCLA School of Law and director of the Safeguarding Democracy Project, wrote on social media that the Supreme Court in Chief Justice John Roberts’ hands “has become a chaos agent in elections.”Public support for the Supreme Court was dropping prior to Callais. An August 2025 Pew Research Center survey found 48% of Americans hold a favorable view of the court, a 22-percentage point drop from August 2020.In the wake of the decision, Democrats have renewed their calls for court reform. Some have proposed term limits for the justices or expanding the size of the court to dilute its conservative majority. However, major changes are unlikely to become law while the U.S. Senate retains the filibuster and Trump remains in office.For his part, Roberts has taken pains to paint the court as outside of politics. But at a judicial conference in Pennsylvania in early May, Roberts acknowledged the public thinks the justices are expressing policy preferences rather than interpreting the law.“I think they view us as purely political actors, which I don’t think is an accurate understanding of what we do,” Roberts said, according to The Associated Press.Justice Brett Kavanaugh, another of the court’s conservatives, has drawn a distinction between federal courts ordering last-minute changes to elections and states making changes themselves — suggesting that courts shouldn’t necessarily thwart state legislatures that alter rules and procedures in the run-up to elections.In a 2020 concurring opinion about a federal judge who had altered Wisconsin’s absentee ballot deadline amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Kavanaugh wrote that it was one thing for state legislatures to change their own election rules “in the late innings” and bear responsibility for unintended consequences.“It is quite another thing for a federal district court to swoop in and alter carefully considered and democratically enacted state election rules when an election is imminent,” Kavanaugh wrote.Chaotic campaign seasonBut voting rights advocates say Callais is unleashing a wave of voter confusion as Southern legislatures rush to gerrymander.Tennessee’s Republican-controlled legislature passed a map on May 7 that divides the Memphis area among three congressional districts. The move splits a majority-Black district in Memphis represented by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, a white Democrat. Cohen announced on May 12 he wouldn’t seek reelection.The state’s primary election is scheduled for Aug. 6. John Partipilo // Tennessee Lookout “This is a year where we’re already in the cycle and they’re going to have to redo everything they’ve already worked on because these districts are completely different,” Matia Powell, executive director of the voting rights group Civic TN, told reporters.The Tennessee Democratic Party and several Democratic candidates, including state Rep. Justin Pearson, who is running for Cohen’s current seat, have filed a federal lawsuit against the map. They argue the new map will cause “significant voter confusion” and severely burden the right to vote.Tennessee Republican Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti argues the Democrats have a solution in search of a problem. Tennessee lawmakers have provided more than $3.1 million to implement the new map and that state officials are already working to meet election deadlines, Skrmetti’s office wrote in a May 10 court filing.“At bottom, this suit is an invitation to play politics, not law,” Tennessee Senior Assistant Attorney General Zachary Barker wrote in the filing.U.S. District Court Judge William Campbell, a Trump appointee, on May 11 declined to immediately halt the map.The Supreme Court has sent states the message that “there are no rules” and that state legislatures are welcome to gerrymander Black representation at any point, said Anna Baldwin, voting rights litigation director at Campaign Legal Center, which has sued over Florida’s recent gerrymander.And the way the court applies the Purcell principle encourages states to make changes close to elections — because courts are more reluctant to block them.“The court is creating a perverse incentive structure that ultimately does make it harder for people who are trying to protect voting rights to prevail,” Baldwin said.This story was produced by News From the States and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Taiwan says Chinese pressure over the island is the "new normal" Taiwan's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday said the scholars' passports and mobile phones were confiscated, and they were detained in Mombasa for more than 20 hours before being allowed to leave the country.
	Survey finds 78% of dads are parenting more openly than their own fathers did Survey finds 78% of dads are parenting more openly than their own fathers didFathers pass down so much more than just genes or last names. How a man's father handled stress and vulnerability often became the default behavior his children absorbed. For a lot of men, that meant learning to keep their feelings to themselves.Men have historically been less likely than women to seek mental health support. Grow Therapy's Caregivers Report confirms that women caregivers are consistently more likely than men to seek out mental health support.Grow Therapy surveyed over 1,500 fathers of children under 18 to understand how today's dads are approaching emotional openness and mental health at home. Seventy-eight percent say they approach those conversations more openly than the household they grew up in.A separate Grow Therapy survey of 752 parents and children under 18 conducted from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3, 2025 focused on parents’ understanding of their children’s mental health. That survey also found that fathers were nearly identical to mothers in their confidence in recognizing signs of mental health struggles in their children. 41% of fathers said they feel very prepared and know what signs to look for, compared to 40% of mothers.What this new survey of fathers shows is that wanting to parent differently and knowing how to do it in the moment aren't always the same thing, and there are specific places where old habits still hold.Key takeaways78% of fathers say they approach emotional and mental health conversations with their children more openly than in the household they grew up in.70% actively encourage their children to come to them with emotional or mental health problems, but only 52% say they proactively start those conversations and feel prepared to lead them.Only 35% of fathers selected “express vulnerability openly” as an approach they use or plan to use in parenting, suggesting that many fathers may still be navigating what emotional openness looks like in practice.Only 20% would tell their children if they’ve attended therapy, even though 38% want professional support for their child and 35% want it for themselves.Today's fathers are having the mental health conversations their own dads largely didn'tNearly 4 in 5 fathers describe their approach to emotional and mental health conversations with their children as more expressive than what they experienced growing up. That comparison is often shaped by early models of masculinity, caregiving and emotional expression: 82% said a father or stepfather was their primary male adult figure in childhood.Most fathers in this survey weren't raised in emotionally closed homes. Three-quarters of those who had a primary male adult in childhood felt at least somewhat comfortable bringing emotional or mental health problems to that person. And 70% of all fathers actively encourage their own children to come to them with those same conversations.The 23% who felt uncomfortable opening up to their own father figure are showing up differently for their households. Of those, 51% said their approach is much more expressive and emotionally open than the way they grew up. Fathers who felt less comfortable opening up to their own male figures and fathers who felt comfortable are both choosing to go further, just from different starting points. The data doesn't rank those motivations, but both count.The fathers who had the toughest time opening up to their own dads are actually the most likely to parent differently. Eighty-eight percent of those who felt very uncomfortable opening up to their own primary male adult figure growing up now describe themselves as more emotionally expressive with their own children, compared to 77% of fathers who had a very comfortable relationship with their own dad.Avoiding these conversations is now a fringe position, with fewer than 2% saying they prefer to. Grow Therapy Most dads are starting the conversation, but modeling is the harder stepStarting a conversation about emotions and actually showing emotional vulnerability aren’t the same skill. Showing vulnerability takes practice most adults never got. Few grew up with adults around who modeled it. Data suggests fathers are further along on one than the other.More than half (52%) of fathers say they actively start mental health and emotional conversations with their children and feel prepared to lead them. Many others are engaged but still building confidence: 26% say they try to start these conversations but sometimes feel like they are winging it or unsure of the right words, while 15% say they do not proactively start conversations but make themselves available to listen when their child comes to them.Only 35% of fathers selected “express vulnerability openly” as an approach they use or plan to use in parenting. Showing vulnerability with children can feel like walking a tightrope. Too little, and your child may not see emotional openness modeled. Too much, and your child may take on your stress as their own. Many fathers are still finding that balance. Grow Therapy Dads are warming up to therapy, but talking about it at home is the next frontierMost fathers have made real progress with emotional openness. But therapy is the part of that conversation that still feels personal in a different way.Only 31% of fathers talk to their children about therapy as a normal part of life, and only 20% say they would tell their children if they've attended therapy. Those numbers are low, but they're not surprising. For fathers who didn't grow up seeing it modeled, knowing how to introduce it naturally at home is its own learning curve.But that doesn’t reflect a lack of interest: 38% said professional support for their child would be most helpful to them right now, and 35% said the same for themselves. The willingness to seek help and talk about it is just arriving on different timelines.Fathers also have a desire for more support, with 37% having said books, podcasts or content made specifically for fathers would be helpful. Thirty-one percent wanted a community of other fathers navigating similar situations, and 28% wanted specific language or scripts for starting conversations.Only 20% feel adequately equipped already. Research consistently shows that therapy stigma remains a barrier for men. And this data suggests it hasn’t fully lifted even among fathers who already value mental health care. Grow Therapy What this means for the next generationA 2024 report from the U.S. Surgeon General on the mental health of parents confirms that a parent's own emotional well-being directly shapes the environment children grow up in. Fathers in this survey seem to understand that connection and are working toward it.Many are further along than their own fathers were, and some are still figuring out what emotional openness actually looks like in their day-to-day lives.MethodologyThe survey was conducted by Centiment for Grow Therapy, and fielded from May 11–15, 2026. Results are based on 1,534 completed surveys. The framing of these findings was informed by insights from a father on the Grow Therapy research team. Respondents were screened to be U.S. residents, over 18 years of age, and a father of at least one child aged 18 or younger. Data is unweighted, and the margin of error is approximately +/-3 % for the overall sample with a 95% confidence level.This story was produced by Grow Therapy and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How deep-red Utah helped launch a portable plug-in solar movement How deep-red Utah helped launch a portable plug-in solar movementUtah state Rep. Raymond Ward was reading a story in The New York Times about a growing trend in Europe, and it sparked an idea to make energy more affordable and portable at home.Plug-in solar panels — sometimes called “balcony solar” — allow people to generate electricity by plugging panels directly into a standard outlet and help cut down on utility bills, without the need for expensive rooftop installations. The relatively cheap technology has taken off in parts of Europe, and a recent Utah law sponsored by Ward has spurred interest across the U.S.Utah lawmakers passed HB 340 last year with bipartisan and unanimous support, becoming the first state to allow residents to plug solar systems directly into residential outlets.“It’s great for anyone who wants a little solar power but does not want to pay $30,000 for a roof install,” Ward, a Republican, told Grist.Ward learned about plug-in solar panels after reading about their popularity in Germany. Balcony panels there added 10% more solar capacity to the grid in just a few months, The New York Times reported, just as Russia’s war with Ukraine was draining energy supplies. Alexandra Schuler // picture alliance via Getty Images Since Ward’s bill passed last year, 30 more states plus the District of Columbia have drafted similar bills, according to information tracked by the plug-in solar lobbying group Bright Saver.“Thank you, Utah,” said Cora Stryker, a cofounder of the California-based nonprofit. “It’s a common-sense, no-brainer thing that should keep sweeping the country.”Maine’s governor signed a similar bill earlier this month. Virginia’s plug-in solar bill currently sits on the governor’s desk awaiting a signature. Colorado and Maryland have legislation approved by both chambers of their statehouses. Bills in Hawai‘i, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Vermont have passed in one chamber so far.Despite that momentum, U.S. residents still can’t buy plug-in panels from the same big-box stores that sell other consumer electronic appliances, like hair dryers, washing machines, or toasters. That’s because Utah and other states also need rules and regulations for the panels, because while they sound simple, they flip the way the electrical utility system works on its head.Residential households are only designed to pull power off the grid, through wires to outlets, and into plugged-in devices. Balcony solar does the opposite by creating power and pushing it backward into the outlet and “upstream” through a home’s wires, Ward explained. “Utilities tend, in general, not to want anybody else to make power,” he said.Power providers also have concerns about safety, the lawmaker said. If line workers are trying to repair an electrical line they think is switched off, for example, but a condo’s solar panels are still pushing electricity through that line, it could put those employees in danger of getting electrocuted.To Ward, those problems were solvable. “The electricity is the same over [in Europe] as it is over here,” he said. “All the same rules of physics work and have proved to be safe.”But U.S. residents can’t smuggle balcony solar systems over in a suitcase from Europe, because North America uses different plugs and voltages.Ward collaborated with Utah’s largest electricity provider, Rocky Mountain Power, to craft language for his bill so that the plug-in movement in Utah can be homegrown.A spokesperson for Rocky Mountain Power noted the utility took no position on Ward’s bill. “We remain concerned that some products entering the market may not meet the requirements of the bill,” the spokesperson wrote in an email, “potentially creating electrical hazards for utility workers.”The legislation removes liability for utilities, and owners of plug-in panels can’t ask for payments for the electricity they send back to the grid. It also requires a company called Underwriters Laboratories, often shortened to UL Systems, to develop safety certification for plug-in panels.UL develops all kinds of safety standards for consumer products, building materials, and other goods. But Utah’s legislation marked the first time they were asked to test plug-in panels, and the company got to work over the summer. Kenneth Boyce, vice president of engineering for UL, said he was surprised to see his company named in Utah’s legislation.“But we take it very seriously,” Boyce said.The company issued a white paper in November outlining potential hazards with the panel systems themselves as well as how they might interact with a typical home’s wiring. From there, it developed product-level requirements that will allow the UL mark to appear on certified products.“We’re … making sure we keep [consumers] safe while they get the benefits of participating in the energy transition,” Boyce said. “We can do both.”UL’s researchers tested ways to ensure that plug-in panels don’t make circuit breakers explode, or that GFCI plugs that are supposed to trip and switch off — commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors — don’t fry and malfunction without the residents’ knowledge.No plug-in systems have been certified by UL to date, Boyce said. “We expect that will change soon,” he said, noting he’s heard from multiple manufacturers. He expects the UL stamp to appear on U.S. panels in “months, maybe even weeks.”Some inventive individuals, including the popular Utah YouTuber JerryRigEverything, have cobbled together their own plug-in systems. They use components that are individually UL certified, like panels, cords, and inverters. But all the components combined into a balcony system haven’t been tested and green-lit for safety, Boyce cautioned. Courtesy of EcoFlow For those willing to take the risk, a global company called EcoFlow, whose product is shown above, is one of the most popular online retailers for plug-in panels in the U.S. They’re currently in conversations with UL about how to certify their product, according to Ryan Oliver, a spokesperson for EcoFlow.They’ve sold portable solar systems for about four years in Europe, “where they’re very popular,” he said.An inverter, which brings electricity from the solar panels into the home and shuts down generation to ensure safety, currently costs about $300 on EcoFlow’s website. A system that includes a battery to store solar energy costs $1,200. And compatible solar panels run between $250 to $1,000, depending on the size of the array.“It’s consistent with Utah’s values of wanting to supply your own energy, and letting people make their own decisions around meeting their needs,” said Josh Craft, director of government relations and public affairs for Utah Clean Energy.Craft, pictured below, said he’s experimenting with his own plug-in system at home, donated by EcoFlow. “It works. It’s fun,” he said. “I have foldable panels set up on my patio roof.” Bethany Baker // The Salt Lake Tribune The panels could also amp up an entirely new market for clean energy. Their surge in popularity comes at a time when the Trump administration is slashing subsidies for wind and solar projects, even as energy bills are expected to spike due to demands from data centers and artificial intelligence, Craft noted.Utah code resulting from Ward’s bill caps power output from plug-in systems at 1,200 watts, which means they won’t offset all the electrical use from a typical household.On his YouTube channel, JerryRigEverything reported that his array saves about a dollar a day on his electricity bill. Craft figures his system, which is combined with a battery, cuts down his power bill by about 10%, but he hasn’t tested it while running an air conditioner.In just the last few weeks, Ward said he’s had conversations with lawmakers in Hawai‘i, Washington, Minnesota, and Colorado about how to facilitate plug-in solar in their states. With Maine adopting a similar policy and several other states close behind, Utah’s experiment is already spreading.“Heck yeah,” Ward said.This coverage is made possible through a partnership between Grist and The Salt Lake Tribune, a nonprofit newsroom in Utah.This story was produced by Grist and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Severe Thunderstorm Warning from WED 7:35 AM CDT until WED 8:30 AM CDT Severe Thunderstorms with Damaging Winds Impacting Northwestern Illinois and East Central Iowa Until 8:30 AM CDT
	Marine Highway 35 Workshop to spotlight freight, jobs and investment Marine Highway 35 Workshop to spotlight freight, jobs and investment to unite river community and municipality leaders.
	Orion trustees delay band shell repairs until after Fall Fest Orion trustees discussed the odds of being able to repair and repaint the band shell before the Aug. 1 celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary.
	Senate to proceed with intel chief confirmation hearing despite Trump's call to delay The Senate Intelligence Committee said it will move ahead with the confirmation process for Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence Today. But President Trump is calling for a delay.
	Concrete This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.It's there, everywhere. Our skyscrapers rest on it, it lies under the wheels of our cars from New York to San…
	'Rejected': How federal prisons stonewall grievances and deny care for years People who go to prison keep one important right — to file a grievance over their treatment: from abuse to denied medical care. But in the vast majority of cases, those efforts go nowhere, according to an analysis of federal data by The Marshall Project and NPR.
	Movies and TV shows casting across the US muratart // 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 'The Tarot Oracle' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Astra Wisdom (lead, female, 18-25)--- Jack Bennett (lead, male, 23-30)--- Alan Habsburg (supporting, male, 45-55)- Roles pay up to: $4,800- Casting locations: Baldwin Park, CA; Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the vertical series here Dpongvit // Shutterstock 'Love in the Wind' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Luke (lead, male, 18-30)--- Savannah (lead, female, 18-30)- Roles pay up to: $1,000- Casting locations: Los Angeles, CA; Austin, TX- Learn more about the feature film here Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock 'Ghost' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Photo Double for Black Male Actor, Shaved Head, 6'2-6'3 (background / extra, male, 23-50)--- Photo Double for White/Latino Male Actor, 6'0-6'2 (background / extra, male, 25-50)- Roles pay up to: $262- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Brooklyn, NY; Queens, NY; White Plains, NY; Yonkers, NY- Learn more about the feature film here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock Untitled Friendship Feature Film - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Young Sara (lead, female, 6-12)--- Young Sarah (lead, female, 6-12)- Roles pay up to: $1,514- Casting locations: nationwide- Learn more about the feature film here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Friends with Biases' - Project type: documentary series- Roles: --- Politically Open Americans (real people, 21-55)- Roles pay up to: $1,600- Casting locations: nationwide- Learn more about the documentary series here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'Ex-Libris' - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Clara Vance (lead, female, 18-25)--- Zoe Chen (lead, female, 16-25)--- Harper Blythe (lead, female, 16-25)- Roles pay up to: $400- Casting locations: Dorchester, MA; Boston, MA; New York City, NY; Providence, RI; Concord, NH- Learn more about the scripted show here Tikkyshop // Shutterstock Aishah Sofey Skit - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Stunt Double (supporting, female, 18-35)--- Bodyguard (supporting, male, 18-40)- Roles pay up to: $500- Casting locations: Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the scripted show here guruXOX // Shutterstock 'School Jam' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Zara (supporting, female, 14-15)--- Olivia (supporting, female, 14-15)--- Diego (supporting, male, 14-15)- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Jersey City, NJ- Learn more about the feature film here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'Trust the Man' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Young 1960s Military Types (lead, male, 25-45)--- Gay Bar Patrons (lead, male, 24-45)- Casting locations: Jersey City, NJ; Montclair, NJ- Learn more about the feature film here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'The Gilded Age' Season 4, Extras - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Speech Attendees (NON SAG-AFTRA covered) (background / extra, female, male, 18-70)- Roles pay up to: $187- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Jersey City, NJ; Brooklyn, NY; Queens, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock YouTube Video Series - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (day player, female, 18-24)--- Police Officer (day player, male, 30-50)--- Delivery Driver (background / extra, 18-25)- Roles pay up to: $900- Casting locations: Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the scripted show here Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock New Dating Show - Project type: reality TV- Roles: --- Singles With A Secret (real people, 21-37)- Casting locations: nationwide- Learn more about the reality TV show here KinoMasterskaya // Shutterstock 'Lights Out: Who's Out' Vertical Thriller Series - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Richard (lead, male, 40-50)--- Mia (lead, female, 25-30)--- Liam (lead, male, 25-30)- Roles pay up to: $4,800- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the vertical series here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Cupertino' - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Background Talent (background / extra, 18-28)- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Passaic, NJ; Kearny, NJ; Lyndhurst, NJ; Newark, NJ- Learn more about the scripted show here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock The Movie Lovers'' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Katherine (supporting, female, 30-40)--- Various Roles (supporting, 18+)- Roles pay up to: $800- Casting locations: Austin, TX- Learn more about the feature film here This story was produced by Backstage and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	El Niño is here, so what does it mean? An El Niño has formed amid the warmer-than-normal waters in the tropical Pacific. Now it's a question of how intense the phenomenon will be, and where effects like heat and drought will strike.
	Trump's Iran agreement dominates G7 but big questions remain The U.S.-Israel-led war in Iran has rocked the global economy and decimated Trump's standing at home
	Severe Thunderstorms Expected Today in Quad Cities: Two Rounds of Storms Bring Hail, Wind, Tornado Threat First Alert Day issued as a strong weather system brings damaging hail, gusty winds and isolated tornado potential through Wednesday evening
	UN chief visits Haiti, where a new 'gang-suppression force' will be deployed U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres's visit to Port-au-Prince comes as gang violence persists. According to U.N. data, 2,300 people have been killed in Haiti this year, with another 100 kidnapped.
	U.S. strike on an alleged drug boat kills 1, leaves 2 survivors The U.S. military attacked a boat accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, killing one man and leaving two survivors. This brings the number of people who have been killed in boat strikes to at least 208.
Tuesday, June 16th, 2026
	Illinois End of Life Options Act faces challenge from lawsuit HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) - A lawsuit has been filed to attempt to stop a controversial assisted suicide bill from becoming a law in Illinois. The Illinois End of Life Options Act would allow doctors to prescribe lethal medication to certain terminally ill patients. It is scheduled to become a law on September 12. However, a [...]
	High school baseball and softball: June 16th Watch highlights from Pleasant Valley vs Ankeny Centennial, Cal-Wheat vs Central DeWitt baseball, and Muscatine vs Central DeWitt softball.
	River Bandits fall to Timber Rattlers 11-6 The Quad Cities River Bandits fall to Wisconsin Timber Rattlers 11-6 in game one of the series.
	Florida’s GOP AGs used to intervene in utility rate cases, but no longer Duke Energy Florida's office located in St. Petersburg. (Photo via Duke Energy's website)As electricity cost increases outpace other measures of inflation, attorneys general around the country have intervened to stop what they consider exorbitant rate hikes: Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes stepped in after Arizona Public Services asked to raise rates by more than 14% last fall. In Michigan, Attorney General Dana Nessel filed testimony in March to slash an 85% rate hike by energy provider DTE. And in North Carolina, Attorney General Jeff Jackson just urged state regulators to reduce Duke Energy Carolinas’ proposed rate increase. But after Florida Power & Light hit its 12 million customers with a nearly $7 billion rate hike last year, Florida Attorney General James Uthemier made no such move. Neither had his predecessor, now-U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody, when rates from Florida’s four investor-owned utilities (IOUs) soared during her six years in office. How much? From December 2020 to January 2026, Tampa Electric raised its utility bills by 86%, Duke Energy by 49%, and Florida Power and Light (FPL) by 45%, according to Food & Water Watch. (The fourth IOU is Florida Public Utilities Co., a much smaller provider serving North Florida). The first line of defense for Florida energy ratepayers is supposed to be the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), a five-member board appointed by the governor. He selects those members from a pool of nominees submitted by a joint state House-Senate committee subject to confirmation by the Senate. Critics contend the panel has been toothless in fighting such increases for decades, however. That’s when an attorney general can wield the power of his or her office to intervene. “As attorney general, I sued utility companies,” said former Florida Gov. Charlie Crist when speaking at a St. Petersburg mayoral forum last week. “I sued power companies,” he continued. “I sued insurance companies. Why? Because the Public Service Commission was supposed to regulate them, [and] was not regulating them hardly at all. They would rate virtually every rate increase that came to the Public Service Commission to receive. Now, suing them probably was popular among constituents, but it sure wasn’t popular with those companies. But I’m proud to have done it.” “Florida is in the midst of an affordability crisis, and that includes housing and insurance and people’s utility bills. And we’ve watched the utility bills for Florida rate payers go up and up and up,” said Susan Glickman of the CLEO Institute, a nonprofit that works to advance clean energy policies across Florida. Although the PSC is statutorily charged with protecting consumers, “the attorney general becomes the backstop for this continued gouging of ratepayers,” Glickman said. “So, it would be really vital for our state attorney generals to do what they’re doing in North Carolina and Michigan and intervene in these rate cases to protect people.” There is no evidence that Moody ever contemplated doing so when she was attorney general, even though her tenure saw more than $1.25 billion in rate hikes. That included PSC approval of a $692 million rate hike by FPL effective in 2022 and another $560 million effective in 2023, as reported by the News Service of Florida. Her campaign did not reply to a request for comment. When Florida GOP AG’s intervened in rate cases In 2009, then-Florida Republican Attorney General Bill McCollum supported the Florida Office of Public Counsel’s petition to oppose FPL’s proposal to increase base rates by approximately $1.3 billion annually over two years. The result was a freeze of base rates paid by customers through the end of 2012. (That office represents ratepayers in PSC cases.) In 2005, when Crist served as attorney general, he filed petitions with the PSC to intervene on behalf of Florida consumers and taxpayers to oppose rate hikes proposed by FPL and Progress Energy Florida (which later became Duke Energy). FPL ultimately agreed to freeze rates for four years. “The utility companies are entitled to make a profit,” Crist said at the time, “but not exorbitant profit borne on the backs of our people and our businesses.” Florida U.S. GOP Sen. Ashley Moody speaking in St. Petersburg at the Florida Holocaust Museum on June 15, 2026. (Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix) Like many elected officials in Florida, Moody has received significant campaign contributions from the major investor-owned utilities since she began her first campaign for attorney general in 2017. Campaign records show that the utility industry spent nearly $300,000 to support her runs for attorney general in 2018 and 2022. And she has raised more money from the electric power utilities (around $90,000) than any other candidate for Senate this election cycle, according to Open Secrets, a D.C. nonprofit that tracks money in politics. All told, Moody has received $431,000 in campaign contributions from the IOUs, according to a report released in February by the CLEO Institute. Although formidable, that’s well below the amounts taken by Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson ($1.86 million) and U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, the Florida GOP’s leading candidate for governor ($1.13 million). “Ashley Moody is a corrupt career politician who never challenges a utility rate hike because the utility monopolies keep spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to elect her,” said Alex Vindman, one of her Democratic opponents in the race for U.S. Senate. “Moody is fighting for large corporations and not you. While the large corporations and special interests continue to bankroll her Senate campaign, I refuse to take a dime in corporate PAC money because my focus is on lowering costs for Floridians and ending the corruption in D.C.” One Florida Republican incumbent who hasn’t taken in any major contributions from Florida’s public utilities is Uthmeier. His PAC shows contribution from FPL of $5,674 for in-kind services from April of 2025. All told, Florida investor-owned utilities have donated more than $23 million to the Republican Party of Florida since the 2018 election cycle, according to the CLEO Institute report. Those companies have given about $3.7 million to the Florida Democratic Party and its affiliates during that period. Can an intervention by the attorney general really make a difference? Bradley Marshall is an attorney with Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental legal organization. His group is appealing FPL’s nearly $7 billion rate hike, which went into effect in January, to the Florida Supreme Court. “The AG’s office certainly has resources that we and other intervening parties lack, even compared to the Office of Public Counsel (which is pretty small given the size of the State),” Marshall wrote in an email. “That being said, it would depend on whether the AGs intervened in the rate case to truly fight for consumers or to make a utility-friendly ‘settlement.’ If the AGs had intervened to truly fight for Florida consumers, I do think it would have helped and potentially made a difference. How big of a difference would be just speculation on my part, though.” Former Miami-Dade Democratic state Sen. José Javier Rodríguez will face Uthmeier in the election for attorney general in November. He says it’s not just a campaign slogan, but part of the job description, that the attorney general is supposed to be “the people’s lawyer.” “That is not a partisan statement,” he said. “Before General [Pam] Bondi, it was routine for our attorney general, even if some were more robust than others in terms of bringing legal actions, at least if there was a case in front of the PSC, they would show up and do something. Advocate on behalf of the people.” The Uthmeier campaign did not return a request for comment. The current members of the Florida Public Service Commission via the PSC’s X account. The last time the PSC denied FPL a base rate increase was in 2010. In response, then FPL Group Chairman and CEO Lew Hay lashed out, accusing the commission of reinforcing “investor perceptions that the regulatory climate in Florida continues to deteriorate and is increasingly hostile to investment.” The net effect of that vote was that four of those five PSC members were gone within months. Other attorneys general boast of saving ‘billions’ in rate hikes The work by attorneys general around the country to stop rate hikes saved ratepayers real money. In March 2025, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that she had helped save Michigan ratepayers $41 million after successfully arguing before the Michigan Public Service Commission in two cases. Her office said earlier this month that she has saved Michigan consumers more than $4.6 billion by intervening in utility cases since taking office in 2018. In Connecticut, Attorney General William Tong announced last month that his office was “going to scrutinize every profit, every bonus, every perk and every padded expense” in a $503 million rate increase for 2027 that Eversource Energy, the state’s largest public utility company, has requested. In North Carolina, Attorney General Jeff Jackson testified before the North Carolina Utilities Commission earlier this month against Duke’s request for a 10.95% return on equity (ROE), arguing instead that it should earn a 7.4% return. Meanwhile, in Florida, FPL’s four-year rate plan approved by the PSC was guaranteed a midpoint ROE of 10.95%, with an allowed fluctuation ranging between 9.95% and 11.95%. The Phoenix reached out to Duke Energy, FPL, and TECO for comment. “All political contributions made by Duke Energy come from shareholders, not customers. Each contribution is done in accordance with campaign finance laws and are publicly reported,” a spokesperson for Duke told the Phoenix. “Duke Energy Florida is implementing its third rate reduction of 2026 from June through September, lowering residential customer bills by a total of approximately $50, or 25%, for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy used when compared to January.” A spokesperson for TECO declined to comment. FPL did not respond at all. Courtesy of Florida Phoenix
	Bettendorf City Council approves construction of new pump track at Middle Park The new attraction will be designed by the American Ramp Company.
	Inflation drives Davenport Mexican restaurant to raise its Taco Tuesday prices Azteca Bar and Grill near 53rd and Brady has been serving 99 cent tacos for over a dozen years.
	Man pleads guilty in fatal 2020 East Moline stabbing Kerry Clark has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the 2020 death of 64-year-old Rodney Griffin.
	What's ahead as Gov. Pritzker signs $56 billion budget? Gov. JB Pritzker signed a $56 billion budget into law, promising relief for working families.But some House Republicans say the money in the budget won't go to the right places. Illinois Capitol Bureau chief Alex Whitney takes a look at what could be ahead for the biggest budget in state history.
	Moline plans to move forward with acquisition of RiverStation Building, discusses financing Tuesday night, at a committee of the whole meeting, city leaders talked about the next steps for acquiring the building located at 1601 River Drive.
	Rain along Gulf Coast could become the first named storm of Atlantic hurricane season The National Hurricane Center in Miami says the system is expected to bring intense rain to southern states including Texas and Louisiana this week.
	Illinois 40 Bridge, Hennepin Canal Trail closed for construction Construction started Tuesday and will replace the bridge deck, according to a media release.
	Rock Island man pleads guilty to 2020 murder of East Moline man A man involved in the 2020 stabbing death of a 64-year-old East Moline man has entered a guilty plea and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
	Illinois bets on biodiesel: Expanding the market for domestic soybeans The surge highlights how global oil shocks, brought on by the U.S. war with Iran, and trade uncertainty have increased interest in homegrown energy alternatives.
	New Illinois e-bike regulations go into effect next month Starting on July 1, there will be regulations on high-speed motorized bikes on sidewalks. At the start of 2027, vehicle registration enforcement will go into effect.
	Rock Island man arrested, charged with sexually abusing 13-year-old girl A 20-year-old LeClaire man is facing charges after authorities allege he sexually abused a 13-year-old girl over the course of 45 days between March 1 and May 25.
	Blackhawk Bank & Trust reopens Valley Center branch, Moline Blackhawk Bank & Trust has reopened ts Valley Center branch at 4100 44th Ave., Moline, a news release says. The Valley Center location has undergone a complete rebuild, adding about 3,860 square feet to the facility and creating a modern banking environment designed to better serve customers and the surrounding community. The updated branch features [...]
	Georgia Rep. Collins will challenge Ossoff in high-profile Senate matchup The Collins-Ossoff matchup will be closely watched nationally as the major political parties vie for control of the Senate.
	Georgia results: Collins will face Sen. Ossoff; Trump's pick loses governor runoff In an upset, Georgia Republican voters rejected President Trump's preferred nominee for the competitive open governor's race. They also picked Rep. Mike Collins to face Sen. Jon Ossoff.
	Humane Society of Scott County faces overcrowding; adoption fees waived through July 3 The Humane Society of Scott County says overcrowding has become an issue at the shelter. Since June 1, 210 animals have come through the shelter doors. Of that number, only 124 have been returned or welcomed into a new home. According to a Facebook post, within 48 hours, the shelter took in 53 animals. "Not [...]
	Davenport Speedway will host summer nationals in mid-week racing On Wednesday, June 17, the DIRTcar Summer Nationals late models return to the Davenport Speedway for the 31st running of the Iowa Governor’s Cup. The year 2026 is the 40th anniversary for the DIRTcar Summer Nationals. This year’s tour started June 9th. Thus far, race wins have gone to Shannon Babb(2), Jason Feger, and Brian Shirley. The [...]
	Galesburg donates retired police SUV to student training program A retired Galesburg police SUV is getting a second life, this time as a hands-on training tool for students exploring careers in law enforcement.
	Lee County passes data center moratorium No data centers will be built within the county for at least a year.
	Demolition begins on 2 buildings in downtown Muscatine due to structural issues A road closure is in place while crews work on bringing the buildings at 201 and 203 East 2nd St. down.
	Advocates say WIC funding cuts could impact thousands of Iowa families Millions of dollars that support children and pregnant women in low-income households are at risk after the U.S. House passed a cut in funding that would impact WIC benefits.
	Rock island man arrested in connection with Tuesday homicide in East Moline Officers were sent to the Crowne Forest Apartment complex in East Moline at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday to investigate a report of a man who had been shot.
	QC Severe weather chances rising for Wednesday There's a moderate risk for severe storms with tornadoes around a large part of Illinois on Wednesday. All modes of severe weather will be possible, including tornadoes around the Quad Cities.: Similar to last Thursday, our afternoon and evening severe weather threat will depend on what happens Wednesday morning:
	Anti-tethering bill for companion animals advances in NC House, but its future is uncertain Duke, the dog H657 is named after, was found chained up outside next to another dog that had died. (Photo: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.)A bill that would establish minimum standards of care for domestic dogs and cats unanimously passed the North Carolina House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, but its future is uncertain as the session moves toward its end. House Bill 657 would require owners to provide care, exercise, food, shelter, space, water, and veterinary treatment for “companion animals,” which the bill defines as only domestic dogs and cats. The bill was named after Duke, a dog who was rescued after being found chained outside next to another dog who had starved to death. H657 would prohibit owners from tethering animals outside in extreme weather conditions, including in temperatures below 32 degrees and above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. A first violation would be a class three misdemeanor, and a second violation would be elevated to a class two misdemeanor, neither of which involves jail time or significant fines. Committee members questioned whether the punishment is sufficient, since under the state’s current animal cruelty law, depriving animals of “necessary sustenance” is a more serious class one misdemeanor. “I think people who are cruel to animals are cut below the rest of us, just to be blunt about it, and I’d like to see some of them tethered to a tree for a couple three hours, just to see what it is like,” Rep. Abe Johns (D-Wake) said during Tuesday’s committee meeting. Rep. Stephen Ross (R-Alamance), one of the bill’s primary sponsors, said he worked with various organizations with concerns about the bill to create exceptions for dogs used for hunting, sport or shepherding. The committee also passed an amendment that allows domestic companions to be tethered by veterinarians or groomers when needed. Despite those carve-outs, Nathen Honaker, an attorney representing the North Carolina Sporting Dog Association, told the committee the group remain concerned about the ambiguity of the bill and doesn’t think it’s necessary because current law should cover the problem. Senator to constituent: Puppy mills bill will be blocked to punish supporters “We’ve got standards in this bill that mention what’s appropriate for the age of the species, or what’s appropriate for an animal with this particular type of muscle tone. There’s a lot of ambiguity in those standards,” Honaker said. “The current standard is, if you’re causing an animal pain, you’re guilty of a serious misdemeanor.” Laws that would set minimum standards for care or breeding of domestic animals have faced an uphill battle over the years at the General Assembly. An attempt to outlaw puppy mills in 2013 died in the state Senate, despite the backing of the governor and his wife. Groups that advocate for breeders, farmers and hunters who hunt with dogs have also objected to animal welfare bills over the years. A spokeswoman for The American Kennel Club said they need to evaluate the amendments made to the bill Tuesday before taking a position on it. Duke was rescued by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. (Photo: PETA) PETA, one of the largest animal rights advocacy organizations, is backing the proposal. “North Carolinians have been sounding the alarm for years about inadequate animal protection standards,” said PETA Senior Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. “With dogs throughout the state being left to suffer on chains and in pens outdoors 24/7 through all weather extremes, Duke’s Rescue Act is a long-overdue step in the right direction.” Courtesy of NC Newsline

Wednesday, June 17th, 2026

Tuesday, June 16th, 2026