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

Friday, August 7th, 2026
	Can Role Model move past his viral moment by leaning into authenticity? The singer, who had a viral hit last year with "Sally, When the Wine Runs Out," filled his follow-up album, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass, with dive bar jukebox melodies and live instrumentation.
	Culver's in LeClaire opens Monday with ribbon-cutting ceremony The first 50 customers who make a purchase on grand opening day will each receive a surprise prize from MJP LeClaire.
	A new vaccine could vanquish a major cause of deadly diarrheal disease Over 1 million people a year die from diarrheal disease. Nearly half are kids under age 5. A new vaccine in trials offers great hope.
	Showers and storms possible later today After a stretch of comfortable temperatures, hotter weather is in the forecast later this weekend. Showers and storms are possible this afternoon and we'll see a daily chance into the middle of next week. There will be many dry hours, too. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	'No more family Christmases': How I reported on farm succession planning Talks on life, death and legacy directed my connections with Illinois farmers and strengthened my reporting to close out 10 weeks in the Quad-Cities.
	Life, death and taxes: How Illinois farmers navigate passing down family farms Talking about death is challenging, but farmers are engaging in the discussion more and more while the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in history looms.
	World Tour This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.If you're on a tight budget and can't afford that nine-thousand-dollar cruise around the world in 80 days, drop over to…
	East Moline receives $5 million sewer infrastructure expansion grant The City of East Moline received a $5 million Capital Ready Grant. According to a release, the grant came from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Regional Site Readiness Program. It will be used to extend sanitary sewer service to the I-80/I-88 Industrial Site. East Moline received the maximum award available through the [...]
	Rock Island receives $120,000 industrial economic development grant The City of Rock Island received a $120,000 Regional Site Readiness grant. According to a release, the grant came from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. It will be used to prepare a 53-acre site along Illinois 92 south of Sunset Park for industrial economic development. City council members approved rezoning the acreage [...]
	Kalshi and Polymarket bets on clinical trials criticized as 'ghastly' Researchers warn betting on clinical trials could incentivize insider trading and interfere with drug development. But Kalshi and Polymarket say they provide valuable information to patients.
	Everyone's talking about hormone therapy for menopause. Should I be on it? For years doctors advised women against hormone therapy for women in the menopausal transition. Now everyone's talking about how great it is. Is it really a wonder drug that women should all be on?
	When tragedy strikes, America's wildland firefighters ask, was it 'somebody that we loved?' Deaths and close calls while fighting wildfires have strained an already on-edge workforce. They've also raised questions about policies and priorities amid an intense wildfire season.
	Who or what is 'taking a step back from visibility'? The quiz knows Plus, if you know what "TMZ" stands for, you'll get at least on question right this week!
	Amid cost of living stress, many parents are supporting children well into adulthood Polls show most Americans think young adults today have it harder financially than past generations. A majority of parents help their grown children with expenses, even if it hurts their own finances.
	Why Andy Cohen is a Deadhead for life Over the last decade, reality TV mogul Andy Cohen has been spotted dancing at concerts for Dead & Company. But his ties to the Grateful Dead go much farther than that.
	Salmonella vs. cyclosporiasis: How to tell what you have Thousands of people have been infected with foodborne illnesses so far this year.
	Cook review: 'One Night Only' rom-com is a sometimes-funny uneven mess Remember when romantic comedies drew in mass audiences? That was before horror and sequels seemed to take over the box office. Some of them were formulaic, but viewers knew what to expect with a meet-cute, some kind of challenge that seems insurmountable, and a sweet ending in which the couple ends up together. This has [...]
	Student shoots multiple people at a high school in Thailand, authorities say The shooter was a student and deaths and injuries were reported.
	Student kills at least 6 in a shooting at a high school in Thailand, authorities say Authorities said the motive was still being investigated.
	Court orders Instagram and Facebook's Meta to pay $567M to address kids' mental health online Judge Bryan Biedscheid said in a ruling late Thursday that the bulk of the money will be used for treatment services for young people.
	WQPT partners with Rock Island native to bring “Forgotten Quad Cities” to screen WQPT PBS is partnering with former Quad Cities resident Jared Howe to launch a new original local history series, “Snapshots Presents: Forgotten Quad Cities.”
Thursday, August 6th, 2026
	Collette's dueling piano bar will not reopen The bar closed in April due to plumbing issues, and owners said a number of problems since then have made it impossible to reopen.
	Crow Creek Park hosts international dekhockey tournament Quad City DekHockey hosted 62 teams from across the U.S. and Canada for a week of skateless floor hockey.
	"American Pickers'" Rob Wolfe hosts antique swap and auction in the QCA An event for fans of antique items and collectibles is taking place at the Bend XPO Center. The Rust Belt Americana Antique Swap and Auction is in East Moline at 922 Mississippi Parkway, from August 6th through August 8th. The event is presented by Rob Wolfe who is best known for his work in the [...]
	Herbert Hoover Museum and Library reopens after major renovations After the first major renovations in over three decades, the Herbert Hoover Museum and Library reopened on Thursday. The museum was closed since January 2025. Now it is a completely reimagined look at the life and legacy of Herbert Hoover. "This an extraordinary update and modernization of Herbert Hoover and Lou Henry Hoover's story," said [...]
	Roger Craig’s Quad Cities chiropractor helped align Hall of Fame career Chiropractic physician Mitch Mally helped Roger Craig rarely miss a game during his 11 NFL seasons.
	Augustana College sees record transfer enrollment Augustana College expects to enroll around 80 transfer students in 2026, nearly double the number from five or six years ago, officials said.
	Teammates for life; the story of Roger Craig & Jamie Williams Before Roger Craig was the big man on campus at Davenport Central high school, he was the new kid at Jefferson Elementary after moving from Mississippi to the Quad Cities.
	Davenport police arrest New Jersey man on kidnapping and child sex abuse materials charges Davenport police arrested a New Jersey man accused of hindering a girl from leaving and allegedly possessing child sex abuse materials.
	Step way back in time to Dino Days at the Putnam Take a step way back in time to Dino Days! According to a release, Dino Days is back at the Putnam Museum and Science Center. Dinosaur lovers of all ages can embark on a prehistoric adventure as the Putnam transforms into a dinosaur-filled destination featuring hands-on activities, family entertainment, educational experiences, and blockbuster dinosaur-themed films. [...]
	Lane closures on I-280 Mississippi River Bridge begin Aug. 10 IDOT said the closures are for routine inspections.
	Orion 6-year-old named Iowa Kid Captain after rare disease journey Harlow Taube has already undergone 300+ infusions at Stead Family Children's Hospital. She'll be honored at the home opener on Sept. 5.
	The Heart of the Story: The drive to succeed Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies, and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. A young drag racer is carrying on a [...]
	Sam Hunt, Bailey Zimmerman coming to the Mississippi Valley Fair in 2027! The Mississippi Valley Fair has announced country stars Bailey Zimmerman and Sam Hunt as grandstand acts for the 2027 fair.
	Illinois Quad Cities projects receiving over $7M in state funding East Moline, Rock Island and Galesburg were all awarded a portion of $35 million that the state is distributing to 22 sites across the state.
	Iowa governor’s race puts term limits debate in spotlight The race for Iowa governor is drawing new attention to whether state lawmakers should face term limits, a change that would require those same lawmakers to approve restrictions on their own time in office.
	High school athletic trainer charged for inappropriate relationship with student, deputies say A high school athletic trainer has been charged after deputies said she had an inappropriate relationship with a student, deputies say.
	Fire officials sound alarm about battery facility proposed near Milan The facility would include 200 battery units, each the size of a semi-trailer.
	Man convicted in Moline double-homicide wants new trial Martinez’s lawyer filed a motion for acquittal or a new trial on July 27, according to court documents.
	Trump signs 2 immigration actions to curb 'birth tourism,' limit birthright citizenship Additional details weren't provided, but Trump said he thought his latest actions would be constitutional.
	News 8 Sports Director Kory Kuffler previews 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame induction Kuffler and photojournalist Cesar Sanchez made the drive to Canton to Roger Craig's induction.
	Meet one of the 3 local kids chosen for this year's Iowa Kid Captains: Harlow Taube Six-year-old Harlow Taube of Orion will be honored during Iowa's game against Northern Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 5.
	Des Moines Planned Parenthood is last in Iowa offering in-person services Officials with Planned Parenthood said other states may feel the burden as those seeking care can no longer travel to their Iowa City clinic.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted in RI Co. for man facing drug, weapon charges Crime Stoppers is looking for Juan M. Paniagua-Herrera, wanted in Rock Island County for failing to appear on meth and weapon possession charges.
	Crime Stoppers: Davenport police search for 3 suspects in July assault Davenport police are asking for help identifying three suspects wanted in connection with an early morning assault in July.
	Crime Stoppers: Fugitive escapes from work release The Iowa High Risk Unit is searching for 32-year-old Michael Noe after he escaped from a Davenport work release program. Tips are anonymous.
	Land of 10,000 Stories \| Driven Differently: Roadtrips with a Twist Most people have been on a roadtrip, but these people take roadtrips to a whole new level.
	I-80 and Middle Road interchange in Bettendorf to reopen Friday afternoon City officials said weather caused a slight delay in work on the Gateway Bridge, but the interchange should still be open before the Friday evening commute.
	Iran aims to ban U.S. and Israeli ships from Strait of Hormuz and charge others a toll Iran's parliament is reviewing a plan to ban ships linked to the U.S., Israel and other "hostile countries" from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration has rejected the plan.
	Weeklong Culture Bright celebration to feature QC Symphony Orchestra Riverfront Pops tribute of The Who he Culture Bright Summer Series will bring eight days of collaborative cultural events to the Quad Cities, highlighted by the Quad City Symphony Orchestra’s Riverfront Pops concert celebrating the music of The Who on Aug. 22 at LeClaire Park.
	New app answers Moline recycling questions Moline has a new way to let residents recycle correctly. The city has unveiled its Recycle Coach app, which provides information on local disposal for thousands of household items. The app is free to use and is available in the Apple App Store or Google Play. Residents can also access the app online. “Recycling can [...]
	Iowa puts $10.5 million towards training rural doctors DES MOINES -- Gov. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced a $10.5 million initiative to create 14 new medical residency programs in rural areas. The competitive funding opportunity is designed to increase physician training and improve access to care in underserved communities. Iowa currently faces a rural health care [...]
	Pritzker pens letter to Trump, seeking tariff refunds for Illinois families In a letter sent to President Donald Trump on Thursday, Pritzker asked the president to send direct payments of $1,700 to Illinois families.
	Davenport police find over 150 Viagra pills, more than $47,600 and gun in gas station searches Rockford man is facing felony charges after police say he and others conspired to sell and distribute narcotics.
	I-280 Mississippi River bridge lane closures begin Monday for bridge inspection Lane closures are expected to begin Monday on the I-280 Mississippi River bridge for routine bridge inspection.
	How to get rid of ants: A room-by-room, step-by-step guide How to get rid of ants: A room-by-room, step-by-step guideKilling the ants you can see doesn’t solve an ant problem. Every ant crossing your counter is a scout from a colony that might number in the tens of thousands, and spraying it does nothing to the nest it came from, it just tells the colony to reroute.The fix depends on what you’re dealing with. A carpenter ant problem and a pharaoh ant problem call for different tools entirely, and treating them the same way is why so many DIY attempts fail. This guide from No Contract Pest Solutions walks through identification, room-by-room treatment indoors and out, which home remedies actually kill a colony versus just repelling foragers, the mistakes that make infestations worse, and how to keep ants from coming back.First, Identify What You’re Dealing WithThis is the step most guides skip, and it’s the one that determines whether your treatment actually works. Species ID matters because the protocols are genuinely different; a carpenter ant infestation and a pharaoh ant infestation require completely different approaches, and treating one like the other can make things worse.Odorous House AntsSmall, black to dark brown, and the most common ant found in kitchens. They get their name from the rotten-coconut smell they release when crushed. They nest in wall voids, under floors, and near moisture sources, and they’ll split a colony across multiple nesting sites when disturbed, which is exactly why a spray-and-squash approach backfires.Carpenter AntsLarge, often a quarter inch or more, black or reddish-black, with a single evenly rounded thorax hump. They tunnel through wood to build nests, leaving smooth galleries and piles of sawdust-like material (frass) behind. Unlike termites, they don’t eat the wood, but sustained tunneling causes real structural damage. Any sign of carpenter ants near a wood structure deserves a closer look.Fire AntsReddish-brown, aggressive, and best known for the mounds they build in open yards and the painful, burning stings they deliver when disturbed. In Texas, fire ants aren’t a minor nuisance, they’re a legitimate safety concern for kids, pets, and anyone working in the yard.Pharaoh AntsTiny, about 1/16 inch, and pale yellow to light brown. They thrive indoors in warm, humid conditions and are notorious in apartments and multi-unit housing, where a colony can spread wall-to-wall through shared plumbing and electrical chases before anyone notices.Pavement AntsSmall and dark brown to black, usually spotted along sidewalk cracks, driveway edges, and garage foundations. They’re common and persistent but generally low-risk compared to carpenter or fire ants.How to Get Rid of Ants IndoorsIn the KitchenKitchens attract ants because of food debris and moisture, crumbs, spills, pet food bowls left out, and a sink that never fully dries. Wipe down counters, seal food in airtight containers, and don’t leave dishes soaking overnight. Then place bait near where you’re seeing activity, not directly on the counter surface itself.In the BathroomBathrooms are a moisture magnet, which is exactly what draws ants in, even without food nearby. Check under the sink, around the base of the toilet, and near any slow leaks. Fixing the moisture source does more long-term work than any spray.In the Walls/Behind BaseboardsIf you’re seeing ants emerge from a specific gap in the baseboard or a crack near an outlet, that’s an entry point, not the nest. Bait placed near, not on top of, that entry point allows foragers to carry the active ingredient back to the colony inside the wall void.In Your BedroomLess common, but it happens with pharaoh ants and odorous house ants when there’s a food source nearby (snacks, spilled drinks) or the room sits near a plumbing wall. Same approach: Locate the entry point, place bait nearby, and clean up the attractant.For Every Room: Ants generally split into two feeding preferences. Some colonies favor sugars and carbohydrates, others favor fats and proteins, and some will switch preferences seasonally. Using both a carbohydrate-based bait and a protein-based bait at the same time gives you the broadest coverage, since you often can’t tell which one a given colony prefers just by looking at it.The Counterintuitive Part: Bait works best placed near an area of activity but not directly on an active trail. Ants will detect and avoid a foreign object dropped directly in their path. Set it a few inches off to the side instead.How to Get Rid of Ants OutdoorsAround the FoundationWalk the perimeter and look for trails leading into foundation cracks, gaps around utility lines, or spots where siding meets the ground. These are the highways ants use to get inside. Treating along this perimeter is often more effective than anything done indoors, since it interrupts the trail before it ever reaches your kitchen.Ant Hills/Mounds in the YardThis is almost always fire ants in Texas. A mound treatment, bait or dust labeled specifically for mounds, needs to reach the queen underground to actually eliminate the colony rather than just disturbing the surface. Ants aren’t the only yard pest worth watching this time of year, either. If wasps or mosquitoes are showing up around the same beds and patios, rosemary is a legitimate natural repellent for both.On Patios and WalkwaysPavement ants nest in the soil beneath slabs and joints, which is why they show up along cracks. Bait placed directly in those cracks tends to work better than a surface spray, which just kills what’s visible and leaves the nest untouched.In Mulch and Garden BedsMulch holds moisture and organic debris, making garden beds one of the most common entry vectors into a Texas home, especially beds pushed up against the foundation. Pulling mulch back a few inches from the exterior wall removes a favorite ant highway with zero product needed. Standing water in the yard creates the same kind of opportunity for mosquitoes, and in Texas, that risk is bigger than most homeowners realize.Placement Notes for Outdoor Bait Stations: Put them near entry points and visible trails around the foundation, keep them out of direct sunlight (heat degrades bait quickly), and in Texas summer heat, reposition or refresh stations in the evening once daytime temps climb past 90°F, bait left in full sun during peak heat loses effectiveness fast.DIY Methods that Actually Work (Ranked by Effectiveness)Ranked for actual colony elimination, not just clearing what’s visible on the surface:1. Slow-kill borax bait. Mix two tablespoons of borax with 1/4 cup of honey or corn syrup and place small amounts on cardboard near ant activity. Workers carry it back and share it with the colony, including the queen. Slower than a spray, days to weeks, but it’s the difference between managing the symptom and ending the problem. Some newer research points to caffeine as a promising bait additive, though borax remains the reliable DIY standard.2. Non-repellent residual insecticide. Ants can’t detect it, so they walk through it and carry it back to the nest rather than avoiding it. More effective long-term than a contact killer, which only gets what it touches.3. Diatomaceous earth. A physical kill mechanism (it damages the ants’ exoskeleton) rather than a chemical one. Safe for pets when kept dry. Best used at entry thresholds and wall gaps, not as a broad surface treatment.4. Vinegar and water spray. Disrupts the pheromone trail ants use to navigate, which is genuinely useful for breaking up a visible trail on a counter. It does not touch the colony itself.5. Essential oils (peppermint, tea tree). Repellent only. Ants avoid the scent, but the colony is untouched and unaffected.6. Cinnamon or citrus peels. The least effective option here, a short-term deterrent at best, with no impact on colony size or health.Be honest with yourself about what these actually do: Most “natural remedy” advice you’ll find online is a deterrent, not a solution. The colony persists behind the wall or under the mulch bed regardless of how much peppermint oil you use. Bait that reaches the queen is what actually ends an infestation.What Not to DoGetting these wrong is the single biggest reason DIY ant control fails.Don’t spray visible ants with a contact killer. The ants you can see aren’t the problem; the colony behind them is. Killing scouts on contact does nothing to the nest and often just triggers the colony to reroute its foraging path somewhere you can’t see.Don’t place bait directly on an active trail. Ants will detect and avoid an unfamiliar object sitting in their path. Set it just off to the side instead.Don’t seal entry points before treating. Caulking a crack shut before the colony is dealt with traps ants inside your walls, which is worse than the original problem.Don’t combine repellent sprays with a bait program. Repellents make ants avoid the area entirely, including your bait. Pick one strategy per zone; the two work against each other.Don’t ignore moisture. Ants are drawn to water sources as much as food. A dry kitchen and bathroom removes half the reason they’re inside in the first place.How to Prevent Ants From Coming BackSeal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and utility line penetrationsStore all food in airtight containers, including pantry staplesKeep pet food out only during feeding time, a bowl left out all day is an open invitation, and colonies will target it aggressivelyEliminate standing moisture: Fix leaky pipes, empty standing water, address condensationTrim vegetation and pull mulch back from the home’s exterior to remove ant highwaysTreat the perimeter two to three times a year as ongoing maintenance, not just when you notice a problemRecurring activity despite consistent treatment usually means the nest itself was never reached.This story was produced by No Contract Pest Solutions and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Inspection of I-280 bridge leads to lane closures A routine inspection means lanes on the I-280 Mississippi River bridge near Rock Island will close. The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the right lane on the westbound Interstate 280 Mississippi River bridge near Rock Island will be closed from Monday, Aug. 10 through Wednesday, Aug. 12, for a routine bridge inspection, weather permitting. [...]
	The rise of legacy properties: Why families are investing in land they already own The rise of legacy properties: Why families are investing in land they already ownFamilies face mounting pressure to consolidate wealth across generations while estate planning remains fragmented and vulnerable to legal disputes. Multigenerational living arrangements create immediate practical demands—but they also offer landowners a strategic path to preserve and compound family wealth through property improvement. The challenge: knowing which investments deliver legacy value versus those that drain capital.This trend of property improvement isn't reshaping the broader housing market, but it could gain influence as wealth transfers accelerate. As Triple Crown Homes, a custom home builder, explores below, statistics from Zonda and the National Association of Realtors on property improvements reveal both the legacy investment value and practical solutions for multigenerational living. Triple Crown Homes How Grandparental Wealth Compounds Across GenerationsEstate planning is complex. But generational wealth compounds across time. Grandparental assets have a measurably greater impact on grandchildren's wealth than parental assets do—a pattern that persists across decades. That’s apparent from a study that looked at almost 50 years’ worth of data, which found that a child's relative wealth rank increases by 0.4% for every 10% jump in their parentsâ€™ wealth rank (e.g., rising from the 50th to the 60th percentile), whereas a one-decile increase in grandparental wealth corresponds to a 2.3 percentile increase in their grandchild's adult wealth position.Wealth transfer has more impact the farther back in the family tree it goes. This dispels the idea that social mobility is something achieved through merit alone. Based on the study findings, having grandparents who are able to pass down wealth to grandchildren is a powerful predictor of how those grandchildren will fare financially as well. Moreover, multigenerational living is becoming more common, with 25% of children sharing homes with parents and grandparents at some point.In light of these current realities, landowners who have the means to invest in their properties have more incentive to do so. Both from an estate planning and a practical, quality-of-life perspective, adding living space to a property so that it can accommodate more people and potentially appreciate in value above and beyond market averages makes sense.Which Property Upgrades Deliver the Highest ROINot all property improvements deliver equal value to legacy portfolios. Exterior expansions and material upgrades outperform interior renovations in cost recovery—a critical distinction for families planning multigenerational wealth. Research from Zonda suggests that changes to the property’s exterior, both expanding the floor plan and improving the materials, deliver the best ROI, whereas interior upgrades are less likely to recoup their costs. For instance, a manufactured stone veneer has an ROI of 207.9%, while a garage door replacement is worth 267.7% of the installation price at the point of the property’s sale.The result of expanding the living space of a home is further investigated in the National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact report, with analysts applying a “joy score” of 10 out of 10 for the addition of a bedroom suite. The full report details how converting existing structural shells into livable space yields relatively high ROI, often between 75% and 86%. This may be below the ROI of simpler exterior improvements at the point of sale, but those exterior upgrades have less impact than expanding livable space in the long-term context of legacy investments.For families starting from scratch and building a property on a blank slate, these considerations may come into the planning phase. While in the past a single-family home might have been the clearest choice, the need to combine the practicality of multigenerational living with the ROI of a property that can turn heads in years to come if it is put on the market gives landowners the incentive to design properties with multigenerational living in mind from the start.Why Early Estate Planning Prevents Family DisputesAnalysts predict that around $105 trillion in assets will be passed from the postwar generation to their children and grandchildren between now and 2048, a fact that will undoubtedly have a huge impact on the broader economy. It also further emphasizes the importance of proper estate planning. Deferring estate planning until after death can create ownership disputes and family conflict in legacy properties.Families who invest in land they already own should also do so with a view not only to how it will be used, but also to what exactly will happen when the older generations pass away. Early action and unified decision-making eliminate ownership disputes and establish clear succession pathways for legacy properties.This story was produced by Triple Crown Homes and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Vote for Musco Center in People’s All‑Star Community Award contest Musco Sports Center has been chosen as one of 16 statewide finalists for the People’s All‑Star Community Award, part of the Iowa League of Cities All‑Star Community Awards program. The award recognizes innovative local government projects and the People’s Award is determined entirely by public voting on social media. The bracket‑style competition launched on Monday, [...]
	Quad Cities Airport to host mass casualty drill The FAA-mandated drill will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Aug. 12 near the John Deere Hangar next to the airport.
	Road to Canton: KWQC celebrates Roger Craig in special livestream show For the first time ever, a Quad City native will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
	Muscatine students participate in Study in China Experience Eight students from Muscatine recently took part in a Study in China Experience through the Sarah D. Lande Education Co., in partnership with Wanxiang America Corporation. The immersive four-week program allowed students to explore China, study the language, participate in cultural experiences and learn about clean energy science. “Going on this trip really made me [...]
	Herbert Hoover museum reopens after renovation The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum reopens today following a major renovation, featuring new galleries, interactive exhibits and free admission throu
	3 car wash strategies every industry should steal 3 car wash strategies every industry should stealThe car care industry is reaping the benefits of long-term planning focused on automation, efficient capital usage, and migrating its business to subscription models.Americans are keeping their cars longer. According to Mobility Global, the average age of a passenger car in the U.S. is 14.5 years old. This should come as no surprise, as the price of new vehicles has also hit an all-time high of nearly $52,000, according to Catalyst IQ. Higher vehicle prices are pushing people to maintain what they have, feeding the growing demand for car wash and scheduled maintenance.Way.com explored what other industries can learn from the car wash model to smooth out revenue flows, increase the effectiveness of labor, and operate a greener business. Any industry or business that sees repeat customers can adopt this model, not just car washes.1. Subscriptions over transactionsThe car wash industry has adopted the subscription model that has been accepted in other industries. Music and entertainment have moved from purchase to subscription. Memberships are the new economy. Unlimited monthly wash memberships smooth revenue, raise lifetime value, and de-risk weather/seasonality. The next wave of subscriptions is becoming memberships. Subscriptions keep customers paying while memberships keep them continuously engaged by bundling in perks beyond the core product itself. Just as Amazon Prime is a bundle of benefits, car washes are now offering cash back on gas, free oil changes at member anniversaries, plus discounts on everything people do with and for their vehicles.2. Automation that augments laborIn the car wash industry, artificial intelligence and new point-of-sale systems not only make the job easier for attendants, but they also improve the customer experience. With license plate readers, attendants recognize repeat customers and can sell member packages. Current members are able to use automated lanes and drive through without waiting for any assistance. And AI in the tunnel uses computer vision and machine learning to adjust the experience for each vehicle, optimizing operations and reducing damage claims.3. Water reclamation for a greener washTechnology has continuously improved the systems that process and recycle the water used for washes. Multistage tanks each handle a different category of cleanup, underground settling tanks separate dirt and grit, physical filters remove sand, and ozone treatments eliminate odors and bacteria. With commercial washes using way less water than home washes, the car wash has emerged as a far more environmentally friendly service than washing a car at home.Lessons and TakeawaysThe main lesson from the car wash story is the importance of patience. The car care industry did not wait for a crisis to take action. Instead, they spent years turning their two biggest challenges, namely labor and water, into advantages. They automated their processes before a labor shortage forced them to do so and began recycling water before drought rules came into effect. This shows they planned for the long term, and it is now paying off.Other industries can take similar steps to car washes by:Encouraging their customers to switch from single purchases to memberships.Introducing automation that makes people do their job better, instead of replacing them.Making sustainability part of their operations because it saves money and works better, not just because a regulator requires it.If you make these changes now, while business is good, you will be better prepared for tough times. The car wash industry learned this early, and there is still time for other industries to do the same.This story was produced by Way.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Sticky or slippery? Snails can change their slime to meet the moment Snails are slimy. But there's more to that goo of theirs than meets the eye. It's a fact that may help inspire the creation of new materials.
	Davenport man charged after shooting at group of people, police say Craig Davis-Sims, 28, is being held in the Scott County Jail on a $100,000 bond.
	Davenport man charged with sexual abuse, assault Thomas Williams, 34, of Davenport is charged with sexual abuse in Sterling, Ill.
	The park service says Trump's arch would obstruct historic sites. Could it be moved? President Trump's proposed arch in Memorial Circle would intrude on dozens of nearby sites, says the National Park Service. But there's been minimal discussion of alternate locations.
	Rock Island-Milan teachers receive over $260,000 in grants The over $260,000 in grants will fund educator projects across the Rock Island-Milan School District.
	Enjoy downtown Burlington at Sip, Taste & Stroll Sip, Taste & Stroll returns to downtown Burlington on Friday, September 18, from 5 – 8 p.m. The event encourages the public to explore downtown businesses and enjoy samples, special stops, shopping and an evening out in the heart of Burlington. Click here for more information on the event and tickets. The theme this year [...]
	The backup airports absorbing America's private jet boom The backup airports absorbing America's private jet boomThis year, more and more people flying private won’t touch down at JFK, LAX, or O’Hare. Instead, they will land at airports most travelers haven’t even heard of, places such as Teterboro, Westchester County, Van Nuys, and Opa-locka.An underlayer of aviation infrastructure carries the bulk of the country’s business jet traffic, and an analysis of the 2025 numbers helps put the extent of the trend in perspective.Flight restrictions, government shutdowns, and even wildfires all reshaped air traffic patterns around some of the country’s busiest general aviation fields. None of the traffic disappeared, but it did move directly into a tier of reliever and aviation airports that were built for exactly those types of situations. Paramount Business Jets has analyzed flight data from the National Business Aviation Association, the Federal Aviation Administration, the New York Times, GlobalAir, and more to uncover how the system works and the data that tracks it.Why travelers are landing mattersThe trends of where private jet travelers are moving may not seem important at first, but the story of business travel reveals something deeper about the economy more broadly. Based on data from the National Business Aviation Association, general aviation, including business jets, supports more than one million U.S. jobs and generates roughly $340 billion in annual economic impact. These are not small figures.Most of this activity happens outside the main commercial airports. When a restriction, staffing shortage, or disaster hits one location, the jobs, fuel sales, and tax revenues tied to that traffic don’t vanish. They simply move to whichever side the airport can absorb the overflow.In WingX’s own words, last year was the “busiest year ever” for global business aviation, with flight sectors up 5% worldwide. North America handled 72% of all activity. That growth is happening against an already tight system.Defining the tiers: What counts as a reliever airportLet’s clear up what exactly a reliever airport is. The Federal Aviation Administration’s National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems, or NPIAS for short, is the master list of around 3,300 airports the agency considers to be part of the national system. This list includes every commercial service airport, reliever airport, and a select group of public-owned general aviation fields and airports that make up around 88% of the grand total.Reliever status is a statutory category. It was created in 1968 for airports that were drawing slower general aviation traffic away from congested airports in major metropolitan areas. Historically, this meant 100 or more based aircraft or 25,000 or more annual itinerant operations. Nowadays, the FAA just classifies it as a nonprimary airport if it holds a reliever designation with 90 or more based aircraft.Teterboro in New Jersey, Westchester County in New York, and Van Nuys in California are some classic examples. None handle scheduled airline service, but all sit inside or next to major metro areas and are equipped to catch traffic that would otherwise stack up at the primary hub.The dataThere are two main tools for tracking the change in airport traffic:1. ATADS (Air Traffic Activity Data System): This is the FAA’s public tool for pulling historical operation counts and airport rankings. It serves as the raw material for seeing which fields around the country are gaining or losing traffic over time.2. OPSNET (Operations Network): This is the companion system to ATADS that logs facility-level operations for air traffic control workloads and is used for staffing purposes as well. It is also the same data that underpinned the FAA’s decisions during the fall 2025 government shutdown.Neither of the systems isolates business jet traffic specifically, since both count all operations at towered airports. This is why the best analysts pair the FAA counts with private-industry trackers like ARGUS TRAQPak and WingX. These break down activity by aircraft segment, including light, midsize, heavy, and fractional. They can also isolate business jet departures in a way that the FAA data just can’t.Case study 1: Palm Beach's Mar-a-Lago problemDuring President Trump’s first term, flight restrictions around Mar-a-Lago applied only when he was actually there. That changed on Oct. 20, 2025. It was at this point that the FAA made the restriction permanent, implementing a 1-nautical-mile no-fly zone around the estate at all times.The restrictions also include 10-mile and 30-mile rings that activate whenever he is there. Palm Beach International sits less than three miles from Mar-a-Lago, and the airport has had to reroute departures over different neighborhoods even on days when the president is nowhere near his Florida residence.The repercussions were reflected at the airport level. At a county commission meeting in November, officials compared two example days in March to days before the restriction took effect. There were 630 total operations on a day without temporary flight restrictions compared to 338 operations just three days later when one was active. That’s nearly a 50% swing.The traffic that left Palm Beach didn’t just disappear. Fort Lauderdale International jumped 17.6% and climbed four spots to 16th nationally for business aviation traffic, while Fort Lauderdale Executive gained 3.9%. Similarly, Boca Raton’s airport authority reported its own significant increase in activity during Trump’s visits. This was a direct result of sitting inside the restricted 30-mile outer ring. One restriction brought about a visible transfer of volume from primary airports.Case study 2: The November 2025 shutdown bypassThe 2025 government shutdown lasted 43 days, leaving FAA controllers unpaid. By early November, the strain forced the agency’s hand.On Nov. 6, the FAA ordered flight reductions ramping toward 10% at 40 of the busiest airports across the country. It escalated from 4% the first Friday to 6% by Nov. 11 and to the full 10% by Nov. 14, according to coverage from The Hill.Three days after the initial Nov. 6 announcement, general aviation, including business jets, was outright barred from 12 of the 40 airports. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles International, and JFK are just a few airports that were impacted.The National Business Aviation Association said the move disproportionately affected an industry that supports over a million jobs. There were exceptions carved out for based aircraft, medical flights, firefighting or military operations, and more, but everyday charter and fractional traffic had nowhere to go except a reliever airport.The episode was brief, ending on Nov. 12 when the House voted to reopen the government, but it was a real-time demonstration of what happens when 12 of the busiest airports in the country go dark. The FAA has no published airport-level figures showing where the redirected traffic went, but reliever spots were the only available option.Case study 3: Van Nuys and the January 2025 L.A. firesIn January 2025, the Palisades and Eaton fires broke out. By the time they were eventually contained, more than 11,000 homes were destroyed, along with other structures throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Van Nuys, one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country and the preferred field for celebrities and executives, sits within the broader region of the wildfires.The airport’s full-year numbers reflect this. Departures fell by 12.3% in 2025, pushing the airport down to ninth place nationally for business aviation, per Paramount Business Jets’ own reporting. Commercial aviation felt a milder version of the same disruption, with roughly 15% of LAX departures and 12% of arrivals running late in the days immediately following the fires. Smoke, firefighting aircraft in the surrounding airspace, and general congestion all played a role.Despite this, Van Nuys still remained in the top 10 in the country, demonstrating how deep demand runs in the market even amid a natural disaster.The bigger pattern: Congestion as a constant taxThree unrelated shocks to the airline industry — a permanent security restriction, a temporary staffing issue, and a natural disaster — led to the same underlying result.Instead of traffic disappearing, it moves to the nearest field with a runway and ramp capacity. That is exactly what the reliever system is meant to do and has been doing since it was designated in 1968.What makes the churn more visible now is sheer volume. U.S. private jet departures hit 2.63 million in 2025, a 5% year-over-year gain, soaring 29% above 2019 levels. A system running at record highs has far less slack to absorb a restriction easily, so when one airport gets squeezed, it’s easy to see the overflow in a neighboring field.The pattern tends to repeat across the country. Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Teterboro and Westchester. Los Angeles International and Van Nuys. Dallas-Fort Worth and Love Field. Each of the pairs functions less like two separate airports and more like one cohesive system with two runway options, where restricting one field just reroutes the traffic to the other.What to watch nextThese changes in traffic will test how durable the reliever system actually is. The Mar-a-Lago restriction is set to run through October 2026 at a minimum, so Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton will likely keep absorbing traffic through the rest of this year. Precautions have been put in place to avoid another staffing issue in the event of a shutdown. Natural disasters, on the other hand, are unpredictable. And no one can predict what other impacts may shake up airline traffic in the coming years.This story was produced by Paramount Business Jets and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Can doctors from other countries practice in the US? Can doctors from other countries practice in the US?Doctors from other countries can and do practice medicine in the United States. In fact, foreign-born physicians make up roughly 1 in 4 U.S. doctors, with an estimated 325,000 trained abroad and now working here as of late 2025.The challenge is that practicing legally in the U.S. requires two separate things: a state medical license and a visa that authorizes you to work in the country.For most internationally trained physicians, earning that license means passing U.S.exams, obtaining certification, and completing supervised training before treating patients on their own. A growing number of states have recently opened faster routes for experienced doctors.Manifest Law explored the requirements for foreign-born doctors trained in another country to practice medicine in the United States.Key TakeawaysForeign-trained doctors can practice in the U.S., but nearly all must earn state licensure through exams, certification, and supervised training first.A growing number of states now grant limited licenses that let experienced international physicians practice without repeating a full U.S. residency.Licensure and immigration are separate hurdles. A state license alone does not grant the legal right to work without a visa or green card.Physicians have several employment-based immigration options, for both short-term work and permanent residence (a green card) in the U.S.How can foreign doctors practice in the US?Foreign-trained doctors can generally practice in the U.S. with a valid visa and by getting a valid license from the state where they work. There is no national medical license. Each state board sets its own exams, training, and eligibility rules. Once a state grants you an unrestricted license, you can practice like any other physician, limited only by the need to keep a valid immigration status.If you hold only a foreign medical degree or a license from another country, that credential by itself does not authorize you to treat patients in the U.S. International graduates generally must obtain certification, pass U.S. exams, and complete supervised training before a board will license them for independent clinical practice.There are narrower exceptions. Foreign physicians can work in nonclinical roles such as research, public health, or administration without a clinical license. And as covered below, several states now issue limited or provisional licenses that let experienced international doctors practice under supervision sooner.The process for foreign doctors to practice in the USFor most foreign physicians to practice in the United States, six steps are involved. The first five build toward a state license, and the last secures the legal right to work. The exact order and timing may shift with your country of training and your target state.For many doctors, licensing and immigration are pursued in parallel rather than one after the other.1. Earn a medical degreeYou need a degree from a medical school recognized by the U.S. International graduates must have attended a school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools with an ECFMG sponsor note, and must have completed at least four credit years of medical education there.2. Get ECFMG certification (international graduates)ECFMG certification is the mandatory gateway for international medical graduates (IMGs). You cannot enter a U.S. residency without it.The certification confirms your medical school is eligible, verifies your diploma directly with the school, and confirms you have passed the required exams and a clinical and communication skills pathway.3. Pass the USMLEThe United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) is a three-step exam that both U.S. and international graduates must pass for an unrestricted license. Steps one and two cover the medical science and clinical knowledge and are needed for certification. Step three is usually taken during residency.4. Complete a U.S. residencyMost states require at least one to three years of supervised postgraduate training in an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited residency, even for doctors who practiced for years abroad.International graduates apply through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), also known as The Match. Placement is not guaranteed because there is often serious competition for these positions.5. Get licensed by a state medical boardOnce you meet the exam, certification, and training requirements, you can apply to the medical board in the state where you want to practice. The board reviews your credentials and issues the license. Requirements differ by state, so the same physician could qualify in one state sooner than another.6. Secure U.S. work authorizationA state license lets you practice, but it does not give you the legal permission to stay in the U.S. International physicians who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents also need a valid nonimmigrant visa that authorizes employment or a green card.The process to get a visa can take a year or more, so you generally plan the visa alongside your state licensure planning.What visa and green card options do foreign doctors have?Physicians have more immigration routes than most professionals, because federal programs actively recruit doctors into underserved areas. The main options fall into temporary work visas and permanent, employment-based green cards. Manifest Law Example of a common path for foreign doctorsOne potential path for many international physicians is to receive a J-1 visa to complete graduate medical training, clear the two-year home-residence requirement by applying for a Conrad 30 waiver tied to their work in a designated medically underserved area, move to H-1B status, and then pursue a green card through the national interest waiver as that service builds toward five years.This is not the only path for physicians. There are multiple green card options for foreign doctors. If you're unsure of the right choice for your situation, an immigration attorney can review your specific training, specialty, and goals before you commit to a path.Conrad 30 waivers: Each state may sponsor up to 30 Conrad 30 waivers per year, allowing them to skip the J-1 requirement to return to their home country for two years. That said, new waivers through Conrad 30 are currently on hold unless the program receives reauthorization from Congress.Which states let international doctors practice without a US residency?A growing number of states grant limited or provisional licenses to experienced international medical graduates without requiring a full U.S. residency. These programs are often a response to physician shortages in rural and underserved areas.The states below target physicians who are already licensed and experienced abroad, require ECFMG certification or at least part of the USMLE, and tie the license to supervised work in shortage areas, often for two to four years before full licensure becomes available. The years reflect enactment or effective dates.These laws are still new and may change, so confirm current terms directly with the state board. In general, these are best treated as a starting point rather than a guarantee. Manifest Law Plan your path to practicing in the USForeign-trained doctors can build a career in the United States, and the system needs them. But you're required to clear two distinct processes at once: getting a state license to practice and applying for a U.S. visa.New state pathways have sped up licensing for experienced physicians, but the immigration side rewards early planning.FAQs for foreign doctors practicing in the USCan a foreign doctor work in the U.S. without passing the USMLE?Usually not. The USMLE is required for an unrestricted state license. The narrow exceptions are nonclinical roles and a few supervised state programs, some of which accept partial USMLE or equivalent foreign exams.Do international doctors have to repeat residency in the U.S.?Yes, usually. Most states require one to three years of U.S. residency, even for doctors with years of experience abroad. The main exception is the new state pathways that allow supervised practice instead.Can you practice medicine in the U.S. with only a foreign medical degree?No. A foreign degree alone does not authorize practice. International graduates must add ECFMG certification, the USMLE, and usually a U.S. residency before a state will license them.How long does it take for an international doctor to start practicing in the U.S.?Exams, the Match, and residency usually take several years before the licensing and immigration process. The new state pathways can shorten that for already-licensed, experienced physicians.This story was produced by Manifest Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad Cities Chamber celebrates strong momentum, awards local businesses and leaders This past year, the Chamber celebrated 53 ribbon cuttings across the region, marking business openings, expansions and milestones.
	Traffic alert: Middle Road and I-80 interchange reopening delayed Friday morning for pedestrian bridge work The interchange at Middle Road and Interstate 80 in Bettendorf will reopen later on Friday as crews work on the new pedestrian bridge.
	Death is everywhere in the desert — it's where Claire Vaye Watkins feels most alive Living in the desert is "not for everybody," says Watkins. Her home, in the Mojave Desert near Death Valley, is staggeringly beautiful and brutal. Her new novel Yellow Pine shares this landscape.
	European nations say World Cup boycott is still on, keeping FIFA's Infantino in limbo A continued boycott of the World Cup poses a big threat to FIFA, keeping President Gianni Infantino under intense pressure to resign.
	A new flu vaccine geared to older people is coming soon The first mRNA-based flu shot to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration will be ready for the upcoming flu season. Moderna, the vaccine's maker
	Why vacation rental investors are spending more time on market research before buying Why vacation rental investors are spending more time on market research before buyingShort-term rental investors confront a dual threat: cooling returns and tightening regulations that squeeze profitability while raising loan qualification hurdles. Platforms like Airbnb have democratized vacation rental investing, but they've also triggered state and local crackdowns on tax compliance, licensing, and occupancy caps.For investors already holding properties or considering new purchases, miscalculating revenue in this environment, or ignoring regulatory shifts, can turn an expected return into negative cash flow or loan default. Market research has moved from helpful to essential. Griffin Funding Why 2026 ROI Isn't What It WasThe annual STR outlook research published by AirDNA is one of the most useful top-level data sources demonstrating the health of the market as a whole, from which investors can glean a great deal. Among the various statistics highlighted in the report, the fact that 2025 saw average return on investment (ROI) for STRs hit 10.3% by year’s end was a major positive. That’s well below the 30.8% ROI peak achieved when the market was booming in the afterglow of the pandemic during 2021, but still a healthy margin for most investors.Likewise, the report pinpoints the STR premium, meaning the typical gap between mortgage repayments and expected property revenue per month, at around the $1,000 mark in late 2025, with this projected to remain fairly constant throughout 2026 and 2027, unless market conditions shift sharply.Coupled with property prices showing little to no growth in many regions and mortgage rates remaining stable for the moment, the temptation to start or expand an STR portfolio may be strong. However, the broad view doesn’t account for geographic variance.Region-Specific ChallengesAirDNA’s granular data on the STR market in different parts of the country, as well as the regulatory outlook, which is changing in many states, means investor market research must be thorough. In some cases, the data points to both challenges and opportunities, with an investor’s own position as the defining factor.For instance, the report points out that property prices are falling in some markets that are traditionally associated with vacationing, dipping 10% in Punta Gorda, Florida, and 6.7% in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. For those in a position to buy, this makes these markets appealing prospects, as they’re likely to save money compared with if they’d bought in 2024. However, if someone already owns and is looking to sell or is dealing with rising costs associated with mortgage rates, they face a squeeze because of shrinking house prices.Likewise, the imposition of stricter regulations in certain jurisdictions creates additional costs and administrative obstacles to overcome for investors. In California, for instance, Senate Bill 346 was passed in 2025 and came into force this year to target the estimated 75% of STRs that aren’t properly licensed and taxed, according to the authorities in the state. This legislation effectively requires platforms like Airbnb to provide information on property owners and operators so that more tax revenue can be recovered.Similar increases in scrutiny for the STR market are taking place in other states, including Texas. That’s why thorough market research is a must for all investors, as tougher rules can erode ROI.Making Accurate Revenue CalculationsBecause traditional mortgage products often disallow projected STR income as proof of affordability, real estate investors rely heavily on Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans and private transition loans. In that context, it’s common for non-QM lenders to require proof of short-term rental market performance for the specific location and property in question before they will greenlight a loan.According to Griffin Funding, a mortgage and home loan lender, investors must use a combination of data sources to calculate their expected ROI on a rental purchase, especially if they intend to buy an STR in a state where rules on ownership and taxation expectations are getting stricter at the moment. Looking at average daily rates (ADR), which actually dipped at the end of last year in AirDNA’s report, coupled with the projected decline in occupancy in 2026 and 2027, alongside location-specific research, must be done with care. Even if investors qualify for a DSCR loan on expected income, if that calculation is not accurate because it uses data that’s too broad or not up to date, the risks of having their ROI squeezed or even going into arrears are higher.How to Avoid Revenue Modeling MiscalculationsThe STR market over the last five years has been a rollercoaster, spiking post-COVID-19, then dipping hard in 2023, before making a recovery last year, and seeming to level off going forward. Investors can take heart in top-level data demonstrating that decent returns are achievable, and that alternative lending products make it possible for more people to enter the market if they’re comfortable with the risks involved.Most importantly, rigorous market research remains crucial because differences in regulations, occupancy rates, ADR, and other metrics can make or break the ROI of an STR investment. There’s ample data available for regional markets, so there’s no excuse for inaccuracy or an excess of optimism.This story was produced by Griffin Funding and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Survey: More than 80% of pet parents consider their pets to be family Survey: More than 80% of pet parents consider their pets to be familyAmericans’ bond to their pets is reshaping how they spend their money, organize their lives, make daily decisions and care for their own well-being, according to new research from PerkyPet AI. The findings also point to growing opportunities to better support pet parents between veterinary visits.A July 2026 survey of 1,250 U.S. pet owners reinforced what many already feel: Pets are family. More than 5 in 6 (83.6%) respondents said their pet is a member of their family, closely aligning with a 2023 study from the American Psychiatric Association (APA), which found that 88% of Americans feel the same.For many, that bond goes even deeper. More than half (55.8%) of respondents in PerkyPet AI’s survey said they viewed their pet like a child. Notably, that sentiment is remarkably consistent regardless of parental status: 55.2% of respondents with children in their home likened their pet to a child compared to 56.3% of those without. This parallel demonstrates that pets maintain a strong, emotionally driven role in the lives of their families regardless of their makeup. PerkyPet AI More than 5 out of 6 pet parents find purpose in caring for their petPets have become woven into the fabric of everyday American life, with pets occupying hearts in nearly 95 million households across the U.S., according to the American Pet Product Association (APPA). PerkyPet AI’s survey data underscores how the relationship between pets and pet parents transcends fellowship, influencing stress levels, mental health and even sense of purpose.More than 5 out of 6 pet parents (83.8%) say they find purpose and companionship in caring for their pet, and more than 4 out of 5 (82.5%) report their pet’s health directly affects their own stress levels and emotional state. Nearly 4 in 5 (78.6%) go so far as to say they prioritize their pet’s health and well-being much like their own. PerkyPet AI These personal connections extend well beyond companionship and directly translate into the decisions that shape daily life. PerkyPet AI data found everyday routines are the most frequently cited area of influence for those with pets at 76.2%, followed by travel (45.7%), spending (43.8%) and social plans (40.5%). Today’s pet parents make their daily plans with their pets in mind.Even the most devoted pet parents face obstacles to careUnfortunately, the strong commitment to pet health doesn’t eliminate the financial realities of caring for a pet and the obstacles it can create. More than 2 in 5 (41.7%) of pet parents have delayed or skipped veterinary care due to financial pressures, while one quarter (23.7%) say an unexpected vet bill of any dollar amount would cause financial strain. The rate of delayed care decreases as income band increases, but it does not disappear. These findings highlight a challenging reality: While most pet parents will go to great lengths for their animals, financial constraints can make accessing the care they want to give difficult. PerkyPet AI Cost, however, is not the only obstacle pet parents face. Despite feeling generally confident in caring for their pets, many still struggle with uncertainty when something seems wrong. Although most (79.8%) feel confident in their ability to determine when veterinary care is needed, more than 71% of that group says they struggle to judge whether they are overreacting or not doing enough for their pet when something seems off. This uncertainty often results in precautionary appointments, with the vast majority (83.4%) reporting at least one vet visit in the past year that ultimately proved unnecessary.With uncertainty comes anxiety. Nearly half (47.2%) of pet parents say they worry about their pet’s health and well-being every single day, while another 22.8% worry at least weekly. Only 1.2% of pet parents say they never worry about their pet’s health.Existing at-home pet health monitoring tactics often fall short. Pet parents have an appetite for technology to fill the gapsThat concern highlights the importance of ongoing pet health monitoring between veterinary visits, though many pet parents find current methods are often disconnected and fall short. When asked how they track their pet’s health between appointments, 19.4% rely on a running digital note, 17.4% use their vet’s patient portal, 17.1% use a pet health app, 12.5% keep paper notes and 5% use other methods in an effort to understand their pet’s well-being. Despite these efforts, many pet parents still feel they lack the information they need when it matters most. More than 3 in 5 (61%) report that they often wish they had a better record of their pet’s symptoms, habits or behavior changes when speaking with their veterinarian, and nearly three-quarters (73.2%) believe better health records would make them more confident caring for their pet.The desire for more confidence is driving pet parents to consider digital tools to manage their pet’s health. More than 70% express interest in using technology to track their pet’s health and behavior between veterinary visits. When asked what matters most in using a digital pet health monitoring tool, “ability to share information with a vet” ranked highest, with 40.1% placing it among their top two priorities. “Veterinarian oversight” was a close second (37.4%), followed by “cost savings on pet insurance and vet visits” (31.8%).Pet parents’ appetite for artificial intelligence tools is similarly pragmatic. According to PerkyPet AI survey data, nearly two-thirds (65.9%) of pet parents agree that “AI could be helpful in pet health if it helped pet parents better understand when to seek veterinary care, without replacing the veterinarian.” While interest is widespread, veterinary oversight is crucial, with 70.6% of respondents agreeing that “I would only use a pet health app if it was built with input from licensed veterinarians.”The Bottom LineToday’s pet parents are more engaged than ever in their pet’s health but need more from modern pet care to ensure confidence between annual visits, recognize meaningful patterns or changes in their pet’s health and empower more productive conversations with their veterinarian around their pet's overall well-being.About the Research: PerkyPet AI partnered with market research platform Pollfish to conduct a survey of 1,250 dog and cat parents in the U.S. 509 respondents had dogs, 265 had cats, and 476 had both dogs and cats. Respondents ranged from age 18 to 64 and were 52.4% male and 47.6% female.This story was produced by PerkyPet AI and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Lee Enterprises reports strong third quarter, positive net income "Our return to positive net income reflects the progress we've made in strengthening the business and improving our financial foundation," said Josh Rinehults, vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer.
	Amana Colonies — where German roots grew into an American story A communal society that fled persecution in Europe found freedom — and a lasting home — in eastern Iowa
	The modern public finance workforce: Developing future-ready talent The modern public finance workforce: Developing future-ready talentAn approaching talent cliff is on a collision course with technology shifts in public-sector finance offices. Across the U.S., retirements are accelerating, and recruitment pipelines are thin, with younger professionals less likely to remain in one organization for long periods. Meanwhile, pressure to provide faster reporting, stronger transparency, and deeper analytics continues to increase in a new era shaped by digital tools and AI-influenced workflows.For public CFOs and controllers, the challenge is keeping complex financial and operational systems running smoothly with a smaller, more tech-savvy workforce. And AI readiness has become increasingly important even as public sector office leaders face a decline in workers who understand the institution’s history, processes, and legacy systems. This guide from BDO USA explores why public sector finance offices are especially exposed right now and what leaders can do to lower risk, build resilience, and prepare their organizations for the future.The Talent Cliff in Public FinanceMany finance leaders are seeing the same pattern unfold: A long-tenured controller retires, a grants specialist leaves for the private sector, a payroll manager announces plans to step down after decades in service. Suddenly, tasks that once flowed smoothly become erratic. In many cases, finance departments discover that critical processes live primarily in someone’s memory rather than in documented procedures.The challenge is demographic as much as operational. A large segment of public finance professionals entered into government service in the 1980s and 1990s. These professionals are now retiring in large numbers, often faster than replacements can be recruited and trained.At the same time, competition for talent has intensified. Private-sector firms and consulting organizations often offer higher compensation, flexible work arrangements, and faster career mobility. Remote work has expanded the competitive landscape, allowing professionals to work nationally rather than locally. The result is that many governments are competing not just with neighboring jurisdictions, but with diverse employers across the country.The need for new skills compounds the loss of talented workers with institutional knowledge. Public finance teams will always need people well-versed in traditional accounting and controls. Now, staff must understand AI-supported processes while applying professional judgment to mitigate automation risks.The implications extend well beyond staffing inconvenience. When experienced staff leave or retire, governments risk:Delays in financial reporting and audit completionIncreased audit findings or compliance challengesWeakening internal controlsLoss of historical knowledge behind funding structures and accounting decisionsOperational disruption in budgeting, grant management, and treasury functionsReduced readiness to evaluate, govern, and adopt AI-assisted finance tools responsiblyThe risk is not only today’s disruption but tomorrow’s declining organizational capability.Finance offices aren’t simply losing employees; they’re losing decades of operational memory and the knowledge base needed to confidently modernize with AI tools.The Future Skill ProfileReplacing staff is not simply a matter of hiring new accountants. The job itself has changed. Historically, finance professionals were expected to record transactions, establish compliance, and produce accurate reports. Today, modern finance professionals must still master core technical areas like governmental accounting, budgeting, and grant compliance. However, technical competence alone is no longer sufficient. Finance teams are increasingly expected to serve as strategic advisors, translating data into insights that guide policy and operational decisions.AI considerably raises the bar. As finance functions adopt AI-assisted reconciliations, forecasting tools, workflow automation, and decision-support platforms, public finance leaders need people who can question outputs, understand data limitations, preserve controls, and explain how technology affects financial decisions.Finance leaders increasingly need staff who can:Translate Data Into InsightLeaders and elected officials now expect dashboards, forecasts, and performance analysis, not just historical financial statements. Staff must be comfortable working with data tools, analytics platforms, and AI-generated outputs, while knowing when human review is required.Communicate Financial Impacts ClearlyFinance teams must explain complex funding, budget, and policy impacts to nonfinancial stakeholders. Communication skills are now as important as technical accuracy, particularly when AI-assisted analysis must be translated into practical decisions.Manage Projects and ChangeSuccessful management of ERP system implementations, compliance initiatives, grant programs, and AI-enabled workflows requires professionals who can manage project timelines, coordinate with stakeholders, and support organizational change.Navigate Technology, Automation, and AI GovernanceAutomation tools, AI-assisted reconciliations, and workflow systems are reshaping routine accounting tasks. Finance staff must understand how to use these tools while maintaining appropriate controls. AI governance guidelines may also cover generating documentation, procedures for review, and segregation of duties.Understand Operational and Policy ContextFinance increasingly intersects with policy and program decisions. Staff must understand how operational changes affect financial outcomes and where AI or automation may change the timing, quality, or interpretation of financial information.The professionals who thrive combine accounting knowledge with technology fluency, analytical thinking, and collaborative leadership.Assessing Workforce RiskBefore solving workforce challenges, finance leaders must understand where vulnerabilities lie. Many organizations are often surprised when they conduct even a basic workforce risk assessment.Conducting a Talent Gap AnalysisA practical starting point is mapping current staff capabilities against future needs. Leaders should ask:Which functions rely heavily on a single individual?Where do we lack backup or cross-training?Which skills will be critical in five years but are scarce today?Which processes are likely candidates for automation or AI assistance?Do we have the skills to validate AI outputs, document decisions, and maintain controls?This exercise often reveals an unexpected concentration of knowledge and a gap between current finance roles and the skills required for future-ready operations.Identifying Roles Most at RiskSome roles carry disproportionate operational risk, including:Grant compliance specialistsEnterprise resource planning (ERP) system administratorsFinancial reporting leadersTreasury and debt management personnelPayroll and benefits specialistsData, automation, and AI-enabled reporting ownersIf these individuals leave tomorrow, could operations continue smoothly? Could the organization still explain key assumptions, validate system-generated outputs, and maintain audit-ready documentation?Building Knowledge Transfer MechanismsToo often, processes are learned informally and never documented.Governments should prioritize:Documenting key proceduresCross-training staffJob rotation opportunitiesStandardizing workflowsDeveloping transition plans before departures occurDocumenting data definitions, system dependencies, and review controls for AI-assisted processesInstitutional knowledge must become embedded in systems and processes rather than remaining dependent on individual employees.Succession Planning as an Ongoing ProcessEffective succession planning is continuous. However, succession planning frequently begins only after someone announces retirement. By then, valuable transfer time is already lost. It’s important for finance, human resources, and technology leaders to work together. Workforce planning cannot occur in isolation from hiring policies, career pathways, and compensation frameworks, or the organization’s broader AI and digital strategy.For public finance leaders, succession planning can include:Mentoring relationships that allow emerging professionals to absorb not only technical knowledge but also organizational context.Shadowing arrangements that expose staff to responsibilities before transitions occur.Rotational assignments that broaden experience and reduce dependency on single individuals. Emerging leaders benefit from exposure to budgeting, reporting, treasury, grants management, and data governance functions.Succession planning is not about replacing individuals; it is about preserving organizational capability and preparing the next generation of finance talent to work in a more technology-enabled environment.Recruitment and Retention: Competing DifferentlyPublic sector employers cannot always compete on salary alone. But they can compete in other powerful ways.Many professionals seek meaningful work, flexibility, and growth opportunities. Governments can strengthen recruitment by emphasizing mission impact: how finance professionals directly support community services and public outcomes.Flexible and hybrid work arrangements increasingly influence career decisions. Jurisdictions that modernize workplace expectations often expand their talent pools significantly.The pipeline challenge also creates an opportunity. Instead of trying to fill yesterday’s job descriptions, public finance leaders can recruit for the work finance teams need to perform today: data analysis, systems fluence, technology governance, change management, and the judgment to use AI responsibly.Partnerships with universities and fellowship programs help introduce students to public finance careers early, before private-sector opportunities dominate their choices. These programs can also highlight emerging career paths that combine public service with technology, data, and analytics.Retention, meanwhile, depends heavily on development. Professionals stay where they see opportunities to gain experience and advancement. Employees rarely leave only for compensation; they leave when they cannot see their future in the organization or cannot build the skills needed to remain relevant as the work changes.Building a Learning CultureFuture-ready finance organizations treat learning as part of the job, not an occasional activity. This includes ongoing professional education, technology training, and support for certifications. It also involves encouraging curiosity and innovation rather than rewarding only routine execution.For AI readiness, learning must be practical and role-based. Finance staff need to understand where AI can support efficiency, where it introduces risk, how outputs should be reviewed, and what controls are needed before AI-assisted processes can be trusted.Cross-department collaboration helps finance staff better understand operational realities, while operations staff appreciate financial constraints better. Collaboration with IT, HR, legal, and procurement is also essential as finance teams evaluate new tools, vendors, and data-use considerations.Organizations that invest in learning build adaptability, one of the most valuable capabilities in today’s environment.Public-sector employers can’t always win on salary, but they can win on purpose, flexibility, growth, and the chance to build future-ready skills in service of the public good.From Crisis to CapabilityThe workforce challenge facing public finance is real, but it is also an opportunity. Organizations that approach workforce development strategically can emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to serve their communities. Finance leaders who invest in knowledge transfer, leadership development, recruitment modernization, and continuous learning build teams capable of navigating complexity and change.The need for AI readiness gives that work new urgency. Public finance departments cannot prepare for AI simply by buying tools. They need people who understand the work, the data, the controls, and the public trust responsibilities that come with managing public resources.Workforce development is not an administrative task; it is a strategic investment in financial stewardship. The future of public finance depends not only on funding and technology, but on the people entrusted to manage public resources wisely and adapt responsibly as the work evolves.Public Finance Competency ModelThe Public Finance Competency Model is a structured “health check” of your finance team’s capability, continuity risk, and AI readiness.Use this model to assess your team’s current strengths and priority gaps.Rate each competency 1-4:1 = Awareness2 = Working3 = Proficient4 = ExpertHave each team member (or the finance leadership team) rate the listed competencies, then flag any single point of concern where only one person can perform a critical task. Once ratings are complete, focus action where it matters most. For any competency scored 1-2, assign a backup for cross-training, define a short development step (training, shadowing, documented procedure, rotation), and set a target proficiency level by the next budget cycle to strengthen resilience, audit readiness, future-ready capacity, and AI readiness.1. Technical (Public Finance Core)Governmental accounting and reporting (e.g., fund accounting, Governmental Accounting Standards Board implementation)Budget development and monitoringGrant compliance and reporting requirementsInternal controls and audit readiness (including documentation)2. Analytical (Decision Support)Data analysis and interpretation (trend/variance drivers)Forecasting and scenario modeling (revenues, staffing, capital)Performance measurement and KPI designCommunicating insights through dashboards or concise summariesReviewing and explaining AI-assisted analysis before decisions are made3. Leadership (Execution and Influence)Clear communication with nonfinancial stakeholdersCross-functional collaboration (programs, HR, IT, procurement)Project management (deadlines, dependencies, stakeholder alignment)Change leadership (process redesign, adoption, training)Responsible AI adoption and role-based change management4. Digital (Modern Finance Operations)ERP/reporting tool proficiency (queries, workflows, controls awareness)Automation awareness (Robotic process automation/AI-assisted reconciliations, workflow tools)Data governance basics (data quality, definitions, access discipline)Cybersecurity and segregation-of-duties awareness in digital environmentsAI literacy, including prompt awareness, output validation, human review, and documentation expectationsNext step: For any competency rated 1-2, identify (i) a backup person to cross-train, (ii) a short development action, and (iii) a target proficiency level for the next budget cycle. Where AI or automation may affect the competency, also identify the control, documentation, and review expectations required before the process is changed.This story was produced by BDO USA and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Farm-bots: Bringing AI into the fields Farm-bots: Bringing AI into the fields“We do a lot of wonderful work with onions,” is a phrase you don’t hear often while reporting on artificial intelligence. But using algorithms to help farmers improve yields while reducing chemical usage is Swiss startup Ecorobotix’s bread and butter, according to Abbey Flury, global marketing and communications manager at the company.“Our onion algorithm is very strong. We have a lot of people using it,” she told The Infinite Loop.One of those people is Cody Anderson, an onion farmer based in Washington state who says he has reduced the amount of herbicide he’s using on a 20-acre field by 16 times.“It’s allowing us to be more precise in where we put our chemicals, and just helping us be better stewards of the land that we farm,” he said.Agriculture is one of the biggest industries to have historically resisted tech disruption, with farming robots attracting a tiny fraction of the capital that’s gone into the wider robotics market since 2020. Today, this is starting to shift, as the falling costs of compute and hardware are making the unit economics of autonomous tech make more sense for farmers, with revenues from AI-powered agriculture expected to climb from $1.5 billion in 2023 to $3 billion in 2026.The Infinite Loop by Nebius explored how investors might now be seeing dollar signs in the opportunity to bring AI to this huge industry. But some who’ve been in the sector for a long time are advocating for more targeted use of data and algorithms, as high compute costs don’t always mix well with farmers working on wafer-thin profit margins.Precision agricultureEcorobotix launched in Switzerland in 2014 and develops high-precision crop sprayers designed to be towed behind a tractor. Each unit is fitted with six cameras which gather data that’s then fed to algorithms to determine exactly where fertilizers and herbicides should be sprayed.“The farmer can select if he wants to spray just herbicides on the weeds, or maybe he wants to do a crop treatment like a biostimulant, or a fertilizer,” Flury said. “Because of this precision technology, we can reduce the use of these types of products by up to 95%.”By using AI to deliver chemicals more precisely to where they’re needed, Ecorobotix is also allowing farmers to avoid more expensive products, like selective herbicides that can be sprayed all over fields but are engineered to not damage the crop.“What sets us apart is we can use nonselective herbicides, so something that's a bit more potent, that gets rid of the weeds quicker,” Flury explained. “We can put a safety zone around the crop, so we're totally protecting the crop, and it's not even touched by the nonselective herbicide.” Ecorobotix While Ecorobotix has been running for more than a decade, Flury said that the recent AI boom and falling costs of hardware have led to an uptick in competitors, meaning it’s more important than ever to be able to show return on investment.“It's hard to convince the farmer, because now there's more of us. There's more of these technologies,” she told The Infinite Loop. “It's also a question of price. I think we try to make our products affordable. The ROI of the reduced use of chemicals means it pays off very quickly. But there's a lot of hesitation in the market still.”Healthier soil, healthier plantsAnother veteran of autonomous agriculture is Danish startup FarmDroid, which was founded in 2018. The company develops small, solar-powered autonomous robots that plant seeds and weed fields.Alongside reducing the amount of chemicals needed to control weeds, the company said that, because its robot is lighter than a tractor, it contributes to healthier soil by not compacting the land so much.“It's a lightweight machine. Around 900 kg, compared to a big tractor, which might be 10 tons,” said Rasmus Thuesen, sales manager at FarmDroid. “We’re doing less damage by applying less pressure to the soil, which means it is easier for the plants to get water and nutrients from the ground when it’s less compacted.” FarmDroid On top of reducing the costs of chemicals needed, FarmDroid said that one of the big factors pushing growers to invest in more autonomous machines is the difficulty of attracting workers to do hard manual jobs like weeding.“It's just really hard to get the labor, no matter where you are, it’s difficult to get people to do these jobs,” Thuesen said.To AI or not to AIFarmDroid claims that it’s developed one of the most affordable autonomous agriculture robots out there, driven partly by the fact they don’t actually rely on AI to drive, locate themselves and identify weeds, but instead on precision GPS.“AI is brilliant for some tasks, but it also can become expensive really fast,” Thuesen said, adding that FarmDroid does use AI for customer service and is considering new applications powered by machine learning to assess field health.Using AI in farming settings is also particularly complex due to the unpredictability of the environments these devices need to operate in, Flury explained.“Agricultural environments are among the most challenging settings for computer vision. Conditions change constantly: Sunlight intensity, shadows, soil types, weather conditions, crop growth stages, residue, dust, and field variability can all alter what a system sees,” she said. “The challenge isn’t simply processing large volumes of data, it’s extracting meaningful signals from highly variable environments.”The agriculture sector will also require flexibility from cloud providers, due to demand changing in response to planting seasons and crop cycles. Flury added that the compute industry will need to focus on hybrid architectures which make switching between cloud and edge operations seamless.“Sending every image captured in a field to a distant data center isn’t practical or necessary,” she said. “In agriculture, decisions often need to happen instantly and in environments where connectivity may be limited. That creates a strong need for edge computing, where intelligence exists directly on the machine… We expect increasing innovation around hybrid edge-cloud systems.”Companies like Ecorobotix and FarmDroid are helping farmers generate strong yields while using fewer chemicals, while also addressing labor shortages in one of the most vital industries. The question will be how they can use AI most efficiently to keep costs down in an industry where every penny counts.This story was produced by The Infinite Loop by Nebius and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	US 20 bridge between Dubuque, E Dubuque to reopen soon The Iowa Department of Transportation said the span that connects Dubuque and East Dubuque will reopen at 6 p.m. Friday.
	How to assess CRM vendor reliability before you sign How to assess CRM vendor reliability before you signTeams evaluating CRM solutions typically follow a similar process, including assessing features, pricing, and integrations, booking a demo, and testing through a free trial. A key component that’s often overlooked is whether the company behind the CRM will be the same or better a few years down the line.The worldwide CRM software market grew by 13.4% in a year, reaching $107.5 billion in 2023, according to an analysis by Gartner in 2024. That makes CRM one of the fastest-growing segments in all of enterprise software.Vendors could be acquired, restructured, and even rebranded. Their product roadmaps could shift, taking on a completely different direction, and their support team members could leave to explore other opportunities. In these situations, the businesses reliant on these chosen platforms are sometimes left managing fallout they had never anticipated.Assessing CRM vendor reliability tells you the degree to which that vendor can be trusted to remain financially stable, actively invest in its product, and deliver consistent support over the long term.This Nutshell guide provides the methodology for assessing CRM vendor reliability before you commit. The framework covers three core dimensions, including financial health, update frequency, and long-term viability signals.Key takeawaysThe best way to assess CRM vendor reliability is through the company’s financial stability, product update cadence, and ownership structure.The CRM market is one of the fastest-growing sectors in business software, which makes vendor reliability a crucial evaluation factor.Employing a five-point vendor reliability scorecard offers teams a repeatable, objective vendor comparison tool to establish dependability before signing.What does CRM vendor reliability mean?CRM vendor reliability is a gauge of how consistent a vendor is when it comes to delivering on its commitments. This doesn’t only apply to the point of sale. Vendor reliability is measured across the full life cycle of the vendor-client relationship.Think of all that CRM implementation actually involves, including data migration, workflow redesign, team training, and the time and effort it takes to ensure adoption. Selecting a vendor that is later acquired, puts a hold on its product roadmap, or undergoes a massive pricing change, can unravel all of that, making vendor reliability an active risk factor.How do you evaluate a CRM vendor’s financial health?Because the cornerstone of vendor reliability is financial health, it’s the most crucial element of the evaluation process. You can consider a CRM vendor financially healthy when the company generates consistent revenue, carries manageable debt, and noticeably invests in its own product instead of directing resources to sales growth alone.A financial stability evaluation framework designed by Venminder in 2025 identifies five questions worth asking when assessing vendors:How does it generate and sustain revenue?Does it have sufficient capital for ongoing operations?What is its debt-to-worth ratio?What is its tangible net worth relative to goodwill and intangibles?Can it sustain operations at its current cash level?When it comes to publicly traded vendors, you’ll find the answers to those questions in publicly accessible SEC filings and quarterly earnings reports. In the case of private vendors, your most useful proxy would be the ownership structure.Founder-led and bootstrapped CRM vendors will display a more predictable product trajectory than those backed by private equity firms, often maximizing valuation to ensure a seamless transition for potential buyers.A 2026 vendor risk analysis by ERP Implementation stated that vendor financial solidity is rarely scrutinized during software evaluations, even though a PE-acquired vendor can turn a successful project into a forced migration just a few years after go-live.The following table highlights the key differences between vendor financial stability and instability. Nutshell Why is update frequency a sign of vendor investment?CRM update frequency refers to the cadence at which a vendor ships new product features and improvements. The update frequency shows you whether there’s any real investment in product research and development (R&D).If a vendor regularly launches product features and updates, and documents them well, it’s a clear sign that it’s investing in its platform. When vendors are silent for extended periods, they likely aren’t investing much back into their product, and that’s not a confidence-inspiring sign.An example of a strong update cadence is when a vendor releases updates in waves, like quarterly or biannually, and publishes detailed documentation about the feature, potentially providing sandbox testing windows for customers.On the other hand, irregular, unannounced releases without a visible changelog and no planned roadmap present are all warning signs of a weak vendor update frequency, and potentially little to no investment.Teams evaluating CRMs should ask vendors whether they provide any of the following:A release history or changelog that’s publicly accessibleAdvanced notice of future feature releases and updates (ideally two to four weeks’ notice)Sandbox or staging environments for testing updates before they go liveA product roadmap available to the public that highlights future releases at least three months aheadFeature launches and updates that happen on a consistent basisIf a vendor is unable to share its feature release and product update history, it’s a telltale sign that there’s either zero investment or they’re hiding something they don’t want you to see.What long-term vendor viability signals should you consider when selecting a CRM?Long-term vendor viability is all about whether partnering with the vendor will meet the customer’s business needs. For instance, teams should prioritize fair vendor terms, consistent and reliable customer support, and signs of recent or potential structural changes that could prove expensive later.A good sign of long-term viability is when a vendor remains independent and actively invests in its platform over the duration of the customer life cycle. Vendors that display these characteristics typically ensure ownership stability, contract protection, data portability, and customer retention.When assessing your options, consider these viability signals:Community health: A growing community of users in trusted review platforms like G2 and Capterra is a positive signal. Negative reviews typically spike during business or structural changes and are the first signs of a decline in service level. Look beyond the rating and focus on the review patterns.Data portability: The ability to easily move your data from the platform without incurring costs should be a given. Ask the vendor what data you can export and in what formats. If they have any restrictions, it’s a negative sign.Contract terms: Change-of-control clauses, limits on price increases, and notice periods for changes of service are important terms of a contract. Reputable vendors publish their terms publicly. It’s prudent to read the terms of the agreement thoroughly before signing the contract.Real-world evidence: Look for examples of customers who have seen success since using the platform. Vendors should have testimonials or case studies available to view. If these are not on the vendor website, ask them for some real-world customer examples.How do you compare CRM vendors on reliability?The best way to measure and compare vendor reliability is to apply a consistent scoring framework across all prospective vendors.The five dimensions that follow can help predict reliable, long-term CRM vendors. Nutshell Each of these dimensions should be scored on a scale of 1 to 5. Vendors that score consistently across all five dimensions are most likely to be strong long-term partners.Reliability is the real evaluation criterionChoosing a CRM solution is a critical, long-term business decision. The features that impress in a vendor demo aren’t necessarily the ones that determine whether investing in the CRM will be a success. However, the vendor’s overall stability is almost always a solid indicator.To make a smart, informed selection, teams should take the time to evaluate financial health, update cadence, and long-term viability signals before committing to a vendor.The best partners are those still standing strong many years later, investing, improving, and maintaining their responsiveness. This level of reliability is the most important, especially for any business building the foundation of its operations on its CRM platform.This story was produced by Nutshell and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Greece cut its Golden Visa queue by 7% in two months Greece cut its Golden Visa queue by 7% in two monthsGreece's Golden Visa grants renewable residence permits to qualifying non-EU investors and eligible family members, most commonly through property investment. At the end of May 2026, the country still had 33,051 related applications awaiting a decision, Movingto reports. That was 2,618 fewer than the 35,669 pending at the end of March, a 7.3% reduction in two months. Movingto The queue fell across investor and family filesThe Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum's May 2026 legal-migration report counted 9,210 pending permanent-investor files and 23,841 pending family-member files. Both categories declined from March, when the ministry listed 10,032 investor files and 25,637 family files.The investor inventory fell by 822 files, or 8.2%. The family inventory fell by 1,796, or 7%. Family applications still represented about 72% of the total queue, so the 33,051 headline does not mean that 33,051 principal investors were waiting.Most of the May inventory was recent. Files submitted in 2024 and 2025 accounted for 22,284 pending applications, roughly two-thirds of the total. Another 8,845 were submitted during the first five months of 2026. The ministry still listed 1,922 pending files from 2022 and 2023.Authorities issued nearly 3,000 investor decisionsThe same May report contains a revised series for decisions issued by month. Greece recorded 1,446 permanent-investor decisions in March, including 1,239 initial permits and 207 renewals. Authorities issued another 882 decisions in April and 659 in May.That produces 2,987 investor decisions across the three months. The March figure is substantially higher than the 914 decisions shown in the ministry's earlier March release, illustrating how its rolling administrative tables can be revised as files are updated.The decision series does not account for the entire 2,618-file decline in the headline queue. The pending total includes family-member files, while the decision table cited here covers permanent investors. New applications, withdrawals, reissues, renewals, and later data corrections can also change the stock.New application volume remains below its 2024 peak Movingto The ministry's latest rolling totals show 9,382 initial permanent-investor applications filed in 2024 and 7,025 in 2025. That is a 25.1% annual decline. The May report lists 2,137 initial applications submitted during the first five months of 2026.Of those 2026 applications, 250 had been issued, two rejected, and 1,885 remained pending at the end of May. These categories describe the status of files submitted in 2026, rather than all decisions made during the year. Many 2026 decisions relate to applications filed earlier.Greece raised the standard property minimum to 800,000 euros in Attica, the Thessaloniki Regional Unit, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with more than 3,100 residents. The ordinary minimum is 400,000 euros elsewhere. A 250,000-euro route remains for specified property conversions and listed-building restorations that satisfy additional conditions.A Bank of Greece research paper on an earlier threshold increase found that qualifying transaction activity shifted geographically toward places that retained the lower minimum. The study shows that thresholds can influence where investment clusters. It does not isolate the reason for the current decline in applications, which may also reflect timing, property prices, financing conditions, exchange rates, and buyer preferences.A shrinking queue is still a large queueThe May update changes the direction of the story. The pending inventory is no longer simply large; it is measurably lower than it was two months earlier. The reduction was broad enough to appear in both investor and family-member categories.It is too early to infer a standard processing time from that movement. The ministry publishes an aggregate stock and monthly decision counts, not a cohort measure that follows the same applications from filing to decision. Applicants also enter the queue with different filing years, locations, case types, and family structures.For prospective investors, the practical distinction is between demand and administration. Lower application volume can ease future pressure if it persists. It does not make the remaining 33,051 files disappear, and it does not establish when a newly filed case will be decided.This story was produced by Movingto and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	International Clown Week: Let's make balloon animals! August 1-7 is International Clown Week, and we're looking at some of the skills clowns can use in their clowning. Clown Brian 'Stinky' Weckerly dropped by Our Quad Cities News to show us how to make some basic balloon sculptures.
	Restaurants are losing $12.6B to allergy menu confusion Restaurants are losing $12.6B to allergy menu confusionSomeone in the group is scrolling a restaurant's menu from the couch, phone tilted sideways, hunting for any mention of tree nuts or shellfish. They don't find it and send a message out to the group chat saying, “Not sure I can eat here.” Ten minutes later, the plan has shifted to a different restaurant, or to no restaurant at all.The restaurant never finds out: There's no reservation to cancel and no order abandoned mid-checkout. The table that would have come simply never appears on the schedule.According to new research from Nutritics, a recipe and menu management platform for restaurant and food service operators, that vanishing act has a price tag.The Nutritics 2026 Allergy Dining Report was developed based on a survey conducted in June 2026 of 1,000 U.S. adults who have dined out more than once in the past six months and whose dining decisions are influenced by food allergies, either their own or those of someone in their household, social circle, or workplace. It found that unclear allergen information puts an average of $78 in table spend at risk every time an allergy-affected diner picks somewhere else instead, a pattern that scales to an estimated $12.6 billion in missed revenue across the U.S. restaurant industry each year.For restaurant operators already squeezed by food costs and thin margins, that's a lot of business disappearing before anyone on staff knows it was ever in play. In California, that exposure is no longer just reputational. The state's Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE) Act, which took effect July 1, 2026, now requires restaurant chains with 20 or more locations to disclose the same allergen information that diners are already asking for. That disclosure reaches more people than restaurants might expect, because the person deciding where the group eats isn't always the one with the allergy.One Person's Allergy Decides Where the Whole Table EatsThe $12.6 billion problem is bigger than the allergy-affected diner alone. Sixty-one percent of respondents say their restaurant choices are shaped most often by someone else's allergy: a family member, a spouse, a friend or a child in the household. Only 39% say it's their own allergy driving the decision.That math means an operator isn't just trying to win over the diner with food sensitivities, but also whoever's holding the phone and doing the research on behalf of the group. If that person can't get a clear answer, the whole table looks elsewhere.Parents feel this hardest: Among parents whose child's allergy shapes where they eat, 61% look for allergens marked directly on the menu, compared with 54% of respondents overall, and they're more likely to walk away rather than gamble on a maybe.A Server's Word Isn't Enough AnymoreMany restaurants still lean on staff to fill in gaps that aren't written down anywhere, and that isn't landing the way operators might hope. When a server says they'll check with the kitchen, only 24% of allergy-affected diners are fully confident the answer that comes back is a confirmed fact rather than a guess. Nearly half say it's hard to tell either way, feels more like a guess, or is one outright.For restaurant operators, one of the biggest losses is the guests who considered dining with them but ultimately chose another restaurant or ate at home.More than half of respondents, 57%, either skip a restaurant entirely or pick a different one once its allergen information fails to reassure them. Sixty-one percent have gone further and skipped eating out altogether, choosing to eat at home instead because finding a safe option felt like too much work.A Marked Menu Beats Every Other Trust SignalThe data also points to a fix operators can act on without an overhaul. Asked what would most increase their trust in a restaurant's allergen practices, 57% of respondents named one thing above all else: allergens clearly marked next to every menu item, ahead of a dedicated website policy page, a consistent in-person answer from staff, or third-party certification.That single change appears to move real behavior. Seventy-one percent of allergy-affected diners say they'd eat at a restaurant more often if it had clear, easy-to-find allergen information, and 28% say they'd eat there a lot more often. More than half, 52%, have recommended a restaurant specifically because they trusted its allergen information.The Fix Is Cheaper Than the LossSince July 1, ADDE SB68 has already made disclosure mandatory for California's largest chains, but every other restaurant is being asked the same question by its guests, law or no law.Marking the menu is the most effective place to start, though the trust it builds holds only if the information matches across printed menus, menu boards, delivery apps and online ordering, and gets updated the moment a recipe or vendor changes.A written cross-contact statement is worth adding too. It isn't required under the ADDE Act, but with only 24% of diners fully trusting a server's verbal reassurance, a printed note settles the question before it's asked. For restaurants willing to make allergen information clear, the $12.6 billion is still there to be won.This story was produced by Nutritics and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What does an aging population mean for economic growth? What does an aging population mean for economic growth?There’s no way around it: America is getting older.The country’s median age climbed to a record-high 39.4 in 2025, according to U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, up from 35.6 in 2001. Almost one-third of Americans are over the age of 55, compared with roughly a quarter of the population in 2010.It would be tempting to attribute this phenomenon to Americans living longer, but the data shows that is the less significant of two main factors. While life expectancy increased from 78.1 in 2007 to 79.0 in 2024—a change of just over 1%—the general fertility rate, a measure of births per 1,000 women aged 15-44, fell by 22% over that same period. Life expectancy may be creeping upward, but over the past decade, American women have given birth at a lower rate than any cohort since the late 1970s, and demographic trends are adjusting accordingly.With an aging population comes inevitable questions about the future of economic growth, particularly as the number of Americans in the labor market decreases and businesses must find ways to sustain productivity with fewer human resources. Meanwhile, the entire baby boomer generation will soon surpass the U.S. full retirement age of 67, putting extra fiscal strain on entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare.That prognosis might appear dire, but there is also some cause for optimism. Despite the conventional wisdom that aging populations slow economic growth, new research is changing our understanding of how economies adapt to demographic shifts in surprising ways.The trade-offs of agingResearch has typically suggested that an aging population is likely to reduce a country’s per capita GDP—the measure of total economic output divided by population. One recent study found that, between 1980 and 2010, for every 10% increase in the proportion of the U.S. population that was older than 60, per capita GDP decreased by 5.5%, a reduction brought about by a combination of slowing employment growth and slowing labor productivity growth. The authors concluded that, during this period, population aging reduced the growth rate of America’s per capita GDP by 0.3%.The logic behind this claim often amounts to a simple math problem that economists call the “support ratio.” The ratio is derived by taking a country’s working-age population (for example, those aged 20–64) and dividing it by the total population. A higher support ratio means a country has more workers earning incomes to care for fewer dependents, like children and retirees. The lower the support ratio, the less capable an economy is of supporting a country’s non-working population. As the U.S. heads toward a lower support ratio, the argument goes, economic growth metrics are likely to slide.“I think it’s clear, AI and such aside, that slowing population growth translates into slower GDP growth almost on a one-to-one basis,” Ronald Lee, a professor emeritus of economics and demography at the University of California, Berkeley, told The Dispatch. Yet Lee said that while GDP growth animates much of the discussion surrounding the economics of aging, more precise measures of quality of life paint a different picture. “To me, a measure that is closer to individual well-being, like per capita income, is more relevant, and the effect on per capita income is not at all clear.”Economists, including Lee, have argued that stagnating labor force growth might increase the amount of capital available to each worker, which could in turn raise productivity and wages. Lee has also argued that a lower birth rate can increase the capital invested in each child, partially offsetting the economic effects of having fewer workers.More than any other mitigating factor, however, the possibility that technological innovation could neutralize the negative effects of an aging population may be most promising.Can technology fill the gaps?In a new working paper published by the National Bureau of Economic Research in July 2026, economists from MIT and the London Business School analyzed seven decades of demographic change across dozens of countries. The paper found that, contrary to popular assumptions, lower birth rates have raised GDP per working-age adult to such an extent that the trend “fully offset the negative effect of population decline, leaving aggregate GDP broadly unaffected.”Keelan Beirne, an MIT doctoral student and one of the paper’s co-authors, told The Dispatch that his team was surprised by the results but found the evidence for them to be overwhelmingly corroborated across countries and within different geographic regions of the U.S. “Across the board, we found that these lower birth rates were leading to a faster pace of technological adoption and progress,” Beirne said. In other words, when countries were forced to adapt to a sparser workforce, they more readily leaned into technological solutions and saw a boost in productivity.Recent research by Harvard Business School professor Joseph Fuller also suggested that technological adaptation could be crucial to offsetting population aging. Fuller proposed that artificial intelligence can help older Americans work later into their lives if companies lean into midcareer reskilling programs and allow more experienced workers to focus on roles that emphasize judgment. “We have to stop presuming that older workers are incapable of responding to advances in technology and start thinking about them as a source of knowledge and perspective that is essential for unlocking the potential of that technology,” Fuller said in a Harvard Business School interview.Yet, despite the promise of technology to maintain growth, innovation cannot mitigate every economic problem created by an aging population—most notably, the increasing strain put on Social Security by its growing cohort of beneficiaries. “While this is what happened in the past, and maybe this is how the economy works, this isn’t necessarily how aging is going to play out in the future for a variety of reasons,” Beirne said of the ameliorative effects of technology. “I think one of those reasons is the government’s fiscal position.”The future of pension programs.The good news for the U.S. is that, compared to its Western peers, America’s elderly population is among the least reliant on public transfers like Social Security, welfare benefits, and pensions. While those over the age of 65 in countries like Belgium, France, and Finland receive, on average, more than 70% of their post-retirement income from public transfers, Americans in the same age bracket draw less than 40% from public coffers. Americans work later into their lives than in most other high-income countries, but the primary difference comes from the large amount of asset income Americans earn from voluntary private pensions like 401(k)s. And America’s birth rate, while shrinking, is still higher than that of almost every European country.The bad news is that it probably won’t be enough to ward off Social Security’s impending fiscal crisis, which could lead retirees to lose an estimated $16,900 per year in benefits, according to a recent report by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a nonpartisan think tank. According to the annual Social Security trustees’ report released last month, Social Security is set to become insolvent in 2032 if its current trajectory continues unabated. “We have to do something,” Lee said. “That’s obvious. It’s been obvious for decades, but now it’s becoming increasingly pressing that we do something.”The trustees’ report projected that Social Security’s actuarial deficit—the average change in income needed to achieve a balance of zero—over the next 75 years is 4.42% of taxable payroll, or 1.5% of GDP. However, Lee suggested that any revenue of that magnitude would be better spent on children, and instead proposed raising the age at which high lifetime earners can begin receiving Social Security benefits. Lee also proposed introducing automatic stabilization measures so that the benefit structure of Social Security reliably adjusts to demographic and economic changes. He cited Sweden and Germany as examples of countries that have successfully introduced automatic stabilization to their pension programs.“I think it’s very important that we get used to the idea that people are living longer,” Lee said. “They’re healthier longer, they’re cognitively strong longer, they should be working longer as well.”This story was produced by The Dispatch and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Foundation awards $260,000 in grants to Rock Island-Milan school district On August 3, the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation (RIMEF) awarded a record-breaking $260,888 in Promoting Rock Island-Milan Education (PRIME) Grants to teachers and educators of the Rock Island-Milan School District for the 2026-2027 school year. The grants support innovative programs and classroom enhancements through individual teacher grants, department or school-wide grants and collaborative multi-school grants. [...]
	Inside the summer program boosting skills and confidence for 40,000 kids Inside the summer program boosting skills and confidence for 40,000 kidsWhen Reneta Johnson, head of a small charter network in Birmingham, Alabama, asked students how they wanted to spend this summer, they said they liked to make TikTok videos.That gave her an idea.The staff at Legacy Prep built a three-week summer schedule around the theme of “Lights, Camera, Action,” blending drama, music and dance, culminating in a final performance. But between learning choreography and exploring careers related to content creation, this June, students spent three hours a day polishing the math and reading skills they’ll need for next school year.After three years of the program, Johnson sees more confidence in kids when they come back in the fall and considers it one of the reasons why Legacy Prep’s elementary school went from a D to a B last year on the state report card.“Our test scores were in the tank,” she told The 74. During summer school, “our kids have more time to talk to the teacher. They know what they need to focus on,” she added.It’s a model that prevents what’s known as the summer slide, not just at Legacy Prep but at nearly 460 charter schools in seven cities. Standardized assessments show that over 39,000 students in Summer Boost gained, on average, nearly a month more learning in math and 2 1/2 extra weeks in English language arts, according to a new study. While the growth is significant, the fact that the study found improvement across so many sites makes the findings stand out even more, said Geoffrey Borman, a researcher at Arizona State University who led the study.“A key thing to keep in mind is the scale at which these impacts are being made,” he said. “We’re talking, in this case, about tens of thousands of students per year.” MGT In education research, he added, there are examples of small, “one-off efforts” that produced “groundbreaking impacts.” But those effects often fade when a program — high-dosage tutoring, for example — expands to more students and locations.Bloomberg Philanthropies, founded by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, spent $50 million to launch Summer Boost in 2022 to help students recover from academic decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program served over 16,000 students that year in New York City and has since spread to six more cities, including Baltimore; Nashville, Tennessee; and San Antonio.Students retained the skills and material they learned into the next school year, even though they often didn’t take follow-up tests, either i-Ready or NWEA’s MAP tests, until months after the summer program ended.“These kids are going back to school better prepared to engage in instruction and benefit from it,” Borman said.The study design didn’t include a comparison group, but the researchers looked at whether scores were higher than what they would have predicted if students hadn’t attended the program.The positive effects in math are similar to those found by the Rand Corp. in a study of summer learning programs in five urban districts, several years before the pandemic. The Rand sample, however, was much smaller — about 5,000 kids — and the researchers found no improvement in reading, attendance or social-emotional skills.In another study, after the COVID-era school closures, a team from Harvard, NWEA and the Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research examined the use of federal relief funds for summer learning in 10 districts, serving nearly 450,000 students. Students gained two to three weeks of learning in math on MAP tests, but as with the Rand study, the researchers saw no impact on students’ reading skills.In the Arizona State study, Borman noted that because students often lose more math than reading skills when they’re out of school, a summer program can have a bigger impact in math.The expectation that sites prioritize phonics-based instruction, a shift that has picked up momentum since the pandemic, may help explain why students in Summer Boost made gains in reading when the earlier studies didn’t find impacts on literacy, said Harvard University researcher Thomas Kane, who served as an adviser on the Summer Boost study.Small classes also contributed to the reading gains, Borman wrote. The results were weaker when class sizes exceeded 21 students.Consistent student attendance, a rate of at least 70%, matters as well. It’s a principle Summer Boost reinforces by holding back 30% of the funding to sites until the program is over. Students exceeded the target with a 75% rate last year.“The more kids attend, clearly, the better they perform,” Borman said. “This is something that has been a problem with a lot of summer school programming in the past.”‘The big question’The findings clarify what it takes to run an effective summer learning program. But districts no longer have federal COVID funds to spend on summer school. Foundation funds, like those for Summer Boost, are limited.“The big question is how to sustain summer learning programs now that the federal [relief] funding has lapsed,” Kane said.One source will likely be the new federal education tax credit, he said. Advocacy organizations like the Afterschool Alliance are encouraging nonprofits to form scholarship-granting organizations that focus on public school students.In Alabama, districts are already required under state law to offer summer instruction for students who are significantly behind in reading and math. But the $29,000 Legacy Prep received from the state would have only been enough to pay three teachers, Johnson said. Without the $200,000 Summer Boost grant from Bloomberg, she would have had to narrow the focus of the program to third graders who needed to pass the state reading test to advance to fourth grade.She found, however, that just reaching proficiency by the end of third grade doesn’t mean kids are strong enough readers and writers to tackle challenging material. The Bloomberg grant allowed the school to hire 12 teachers. Linda Jacobson // The 74 On a Thursday morning earlier in June, the school was busy with activity as younger students worked on reading and math skills while middle schoolers danced to a hip-hop beat in the gym. After lunch, they switched.Using a curriculum that’s specially designed for a compressed summer schedule, teacher JaMeshia Moore worked with rising first graders on words they should learn by sight. She wrote “because” on the board, carefully demonstrating where each lowercase letter should fit on the lined pages in their workbooks. In math, students worked out subtraction problems by hand, using small strips of paper that represent hundreds, tens and ones.Before opening enrollment to all Legacy Prep families, Johnson prioritizes students who are significantly behind and often need one-on-one instruction to catch up. The research showed that students who often fall below grade level — English learners, those from families with low income and kids with disabilities — benefited the most from the program. They gained over four weeks of learning in math, compared to 3 1/2 weeks for the overall sample. MGT At Legacy Prep, the staff works just as hard to make sure students attend as they do during the regular school year. They call students if they’re absent, and for the first time this year, Johnson offered door-to-door bus service if students needed it. Some students come from as far as Huntsville, roughly an hour and a half away.Daniel Runner, a rising eighth grader, said he hoped to get some extra help on percentages, while Malaysia Speight said she didn’t have a lot of choice over whether to attend.“My aunt said that me and my sister were not going to be sitting around in the house all summer,” she said.But she was drawn to the lineup of activities, like learning how a storyboard illustrates the scenes that make up a film and the chance to work with professional musicians. The Summer Boost grant paid for the artists’ involvement as well as special T-shirts, a field trip to a local theater and a red carpet awards show. Linda Jacobson // The 74 The academic and attendance requirements combined with the flexibility for schools to design an engaging program are why Bloomberg Philanthropies has seen a positive return on its investment, said Sunny Larson, who leads K-12 programs for the foundation.“We really need to do everything we can to catch back up to where we need to be,” she said. “Beyond that, we didn’t want to be too prescriptive. We really wanted to leave a lot of flexibility, creativity and ingenuity up to those individual schools.”This story was produced by The 74 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Miller-Meeks visits eastern Iowa companies in second Made in America Manufacturing tour Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks began her second annual Made in America Manufacturing tour at Wilton Precision Steel on the morning of Aug. 5.
	State asks court to deny case dismissal from woman charged with murdering newborn The state has responded to a request for the Johnson County Court to drop the case of a former Iowa City woman who is accused of killing her newborn son and putting him in the trash.
	Greetings from a wildlife park in central Sri Lanka that's a haven for elephants At a time of increased conflict between elephants and humans, as elephant habitats are converted to intensive agriculture, the Hurulu Eco Park is a place where the animals can graze unimpeded.
	Trial scheduled for Iowa’s lawsuit against Roblox Court documents reveal a new trial date has been scheduled for Iowa’s lawsuit against the online gaming company Roblox.
	Bailey Zimmerman, Sam Hunt announced for 2027 Mississippi Valley Fair The Mississippi Valley Fair has announced country stars Bailey Zimmerman and Sam Hunt as grandstand acts for the 2027 fair.
	7 tips for a healthy back-to-school season 7 tips for a healthy back-to-school seasonAs the school year begins, your family is likely getting supplies ready and adjusting to a new routine after summer break. Whether your child attends elementary, middle, or high school, it’s natural for them to feel both excited and nervous at the same time. And keeping them happy, healthy, and safe is likely your top priority.GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, put together a few simple pharmacist tips to help your family achieve these goals. From helping your family stay current on immunizations to keeping over-the-counter (OTC) medications on hand, your pharmacist has your back.Key takeaways:Practicing good hand hygiene, staying up to date on immunizations, and checking on your child’s mental health are a few pharmacist tips to consider following this school year.If your child has a prescription for albuterol (Ventolin HFA) or epinephrine (EpiPen, neffy, Auvi-Q), they should be able to carry their medication with them at school. Other medications will likely need to be stored and administered by the school nurse.If your child is experiencing fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, it’s a good idea to keep them home from school.1. Practice good hand hygieneTeaching your kids about the importance of handwashing is one tool for a healthy school year. They should routinely wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time. One fun way to make sure you’ve spent enough time washing is by singing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” one time through.At school, kids should wash their hands at these key times:After getting off the school busAfter using the bathroomBefore eating their snack or lunchAfter sneezing, coughing, or blowing their noseAfter recess and gym classIf their hands are dirtyAfter touching animalsWhy does it matter? Washing your hands with soap and water fights off germs and is a proven way to help prevent illness. In fact, it can lower your risk of experiencing a respiratory illness, such as a cold, by about 20%. But if a sink isn’t available, hand sanitizer is a good backup option.2. Stay up to date on immunizationsMost people ages 6 months and older are eligible for flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Flu shots are recommended yearly. September and October are ideal times for most kids to get a flu shot. However, COVID vaccine recommendations frequently change, so your pharmacist can tell you if and when your child needs this vaccine.Talk to your child’s pediatrician or pharmacist to make sure they are up to date on other routine vaccines based on their age:Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP)PolioMeasles, mumps, rubella (MMR)Varicella (chickenpox)Hepatitis ATetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap)Human papillomavirus (HPV)Meningococcal (meningitis)Good to know: It typically takes about two weeks (14 days) for your body to build up immunity once you get a vaccine like the flu shot. Keep this in mind as you schedule vaccine appointments for your child.3. Set up your child’s physicalBack-to-school physicals are a must to start the year out right. Your child’s pediatrician can monitor their growth and development to make sure they’re reaching developmental milestones. Annual preventative screenings can also help catch potential health issues before they become a more serious problem.These examinations can provide other benefits, too. They’re a great time to make sure your child is caught up on their immunizations. And if your child needs any medications for health conditions, they can get refills during this time.4. Keep OTC medications handyAt some point in time, you’ve likely received a call from the school nurse when your child isn’t feeling well. When a situation like this comes up, it’s important to have OTC medications at home to manage symptoms as needed. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) are helpful resources for lowering fever and relieving pain. They’re especially handy for managing symptoms of various illnesses, such as the cold, flu, and COVID.Here are some other OTC products to keep at home:Medications that manage allergic reactions, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine)Antibiotic ointments for cuts and scrapes, such as Neosporin (neomycin / polymyxin B / bacitracin)Saline nasal spray for nasal congestionHydrocortisone cream for insect bitesElectrolyte replacement beverages, such as PedialyteBand-AidsAlcohol prep pads (or hydrogen peroxide) to disinfect cutsA thermometerTissues5. Keep an eye on your child’s mental healthSchool can be stressful for many kids for many reasons. It’s important for mental health to be on parents’ radars.Unfortunately, there’s a growing rate of kids and teens ending up in the hospital and emergency room from self-harm. One study found that about 66% of childhood suicide cases happen among adolescent girls, with an average age of 15.Look for suicide warning signs in your kids, especially if they seem down or their behavior isn’t typical for them. It’s a tough thing to watch out for, but it’s an important one. Use these five action steps if you believe your child might be experiencing thoughts of suicide:Ask. Check if your child is thinking about suicide or thoughts of self-harm. Seek medical attention right away if your child has harmed themself or if you believe they will.Be there. Listen and show support. Don’t take their feelings personally either — chances are their feelings aren’t related to something that you’ve done.Keep them safe. Don’t leave your child alone. Put safety measures in place to remove anything they can harm themselves with.Help them connect. Help your child connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This service provides free and confidential support.Follow up. Keep open communication with your child to see how they’re doing.If your child is experiencing depression, your healthcare team can recommend treatment options. Therapy and social support are two helpful, medication-free resources. When needed, antidepressants, such as Zoloft (sertraline), can also help.6. Check requirements for administering medications at schoolIf your child takes any medications, ask the school about their medication administration requirements. Your child may be able to take some medications by themselves during school hours, but others should be stored with the school nurse.All 50 states (and Washington, D.C.) have laws in place that allow kids to carry and administer their own asthma inhalers and medications to manage anaphylaxis (severe allergic reactions). Albuterol (Ventolin HFA) is a common rescue inhaler for managing asthma symptoms. Epinephrine (EpiPen, neffy, Auvi-Q) treats anaphylaxis.Other medications may need to be stored and administered by the school nurse. The medication should be placed in the original, labeled container that you receive from the pharmacy. The bottle should include the following information:Child’s nameMedication nameDosageHow it’s administered, such as by mouth or under the tongueHow often and the time the medication is administeredPrescriber’s namePrescription dateMedication expiration dateGood to know: Remember to keep one bottle of your child’s medication at home and one at school. This way they have enough medication for their whole day. Your pharmacist can provide you with extra labels and bottles if needed.7. Get a good night’s sleepGetting adequate sleep can help kids focus better at school. Research also shows a healthy sleep schedule helps prevent certain health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity, down the line.The “right” amount of sleep varies for everyone, but it often boils down to age. Kids ages 6 to 12 should aim to sleep nine to 12 hours each night. Teens ages 13 to 18 should try to get eight to 10 hours of sleep.Here are some tips to help your child get a good night’s sleep:Avoid screen time one hour before bedtime.Limit exercise before bedtime.Avoid caffeine, including caffeinated sodas and chocolate, at least six hours before bedtime.Limit liquids one to two hours before bedtime.Create (and maintain) a bedtime routine — even on the weekends and holidays. When should you keep your child home from school if they’re not feeling well?It’s 6 a.m., and your child wakes up with a fever of 101 F (or higher). It’s a common scenario for parents, and when this happens it’s best to keep your child home from school. If your child is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, they should also stay home from school to prevent spreading illness to other kids.For a runny nose or congestion, you may want to administer an at-home flu or COVID test. If the test is positive, then your child should stay home until they’re feeling better.They can return to normal activities when they’re feeling better overall and have been fever-free without fever reducers for at least 24 hours. It’s a good idea to have your child wear a well-fitted mask for five days after returning to normal activities. This helps prevent the spread of germs.The bottom lineYour pharmacist is a great resource when it comes to preparing for a healthy back-to-school season. Practicing good hand hygiene, staying current on immunizations, and keeping over-the-counter medications on hand are a few helpful health tips. If your child has a fever, is vomiting, or tests positive for the flu or COVID-19, it’s a good idea to keep them home from school.This story was produced by GoodRx and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Report: One-third of small business owners worry they’ll close every week Report: One-third of small business owners worry they’ll close every weekIt’s easier than ever to start a business: Often all you need is a laptop and a business plan. But today’s business environment tests owners’ resilience in new ways.The familiar challenges of securing financing, managing expenses and building a loyal customer base now exist alongside emerging cyber and legal risks. With sustained economic volatility showing little sign of easing, many entrepreneurs face the added challenge of protecting both their business interests and their personal financial well-being.To understand how entrepreneurs are responding, ERGO NEXT surveyed 501 new (in their first year of operation) and established (operating one to five years) small business owners across the United States. The results reveal a nuanced picture of entrepreneurship, where growing awareness of risk coexists with enduring optimism.Key findings58% of new entrepreneurs say their business has felt at risk of failing during their first 12 months.27% of entrepreneurs say the risk of a cyberattack or data breach is a top concern.43% of entrepreneurs wish they had understood their insurance coverage needs sooner.40% of entrepreneurs say they were surprised by the number of risks they weren’t aware of.50% of entrepreneurs are “very confident” they’ll still be in business in five years.The first year danger zoneFor new business owners, the first year is often the most precarious: 58% of new entrepreneurs say their business has felt at risk of failure during their first 12 months. Just 23% say their business has never felt at risk.For many, those concerns aren’t fleeting. A third of all small business owners (33%) worry about unexpected issues and risk of closure at least once per week. For new business owners in business less than one year, that number jumps to 44%, compared with just 22% for established entrepreneurs in business one to five years. ERGO NEXT That heightened sense of vulnerability carries into new entrepreneurs’ outlook for the future. They’re looking ahead with more caution than their more established peers:80% of new business owners expect business risks to increase over the next one to two years, compared with 53% of established business owners.78% of new business owners feel their business is more exposed to challenges today than when they first launched, versus 49% of established owners.Those findings suggest that while surviving the first year of business doesn’t eliminate uncertainty, it does change entrepreneurs’ relationship with it.As owners gain firsthand experience navigating challenges, many develop a more realistic understanding of the risks that could threaten their business and the protections they wish they had put in place sooner.Insurance stands out as one of the most common lessons learned. When asked what they wished they had done earlier to better protect their business, 43% of entrepreneurs cited understanding what insurance coverage they needed. ERGO NEXT Top risk concerns for small business ownersSmall business owners are most focused on risks that could put their profitability and reputation on the line.For nearly half of all entrepreneurs (46%), economic downturn or inflation is a top concern. Macroeconomic pressures are some of the hardest risks to control, and when margins are already tight, even small shifts in cost or demand can be destabilizing.However, entrepreneurs are also keeping a close eye on risks that stem from the day-to-day realities of running a business in a digital-first environment. More small businesses now operate in the cloud than on Main Street, which adds risk exposure. In addition to traditional physical liabilities, such as property damage and workplace injuries, business owners now worry about a new class of more complex and less visible risks.The most pressing operational and compliance concerns include:Cyberattack or data breach (27%)Making a mistake that costs a client money (25%)Issues with contracts, licenses or regulatory requirements (24%)Just 32% of survey respondents operate fully in person, meaning many are more exposed to digital, financial and regulatory risks. For these entrepreneurs, a single mistake, security incident or compliance issue can cause significant financial, legal and reputational liabilities that could ultimately put them out of business. ERGO NEXT The emotional toll and enduring optimism of entrepreneurshipUnderstanding business risk is one thing. Living with it every day is another.The small business risk landscape is becoming increasingly complex, exposing business owners to a wider range of threats than many anticipated when launching their companies.For the many entrepreneurs who operate independently or with only a few employees, there is often no one else to absorb the pressure when unexpected challenges arise.As a result, risk can take a significant emotional toll:40% of all entrepreneurs were surprised by the number of business risks they weren’t aware of when they started their company.27% of all entrepreneurs didn’t expect worrying about business risks would be so emotionally draining.The good news is the emotional burden of risk often becomes more manageable as businesses mature.While 72% of new entrepreneurs say expanding their business has made them feel more vulnerable to risk, that figure drops to 44% among established business owners, suggesting confidence and stability often strengthen with experience. ERGO NEXT When business becomes personalThe financial and emotional pressures of running a company often spill into entrepreneurs’ personal lives: 29% say balancing business demands with their personal life is a top source of stress.For solo entrepreneurs and sole proprietors in particular, the line between personal household and business finances is often blurred, leaving them more financially exposed when unexpected events occur, either at home or at work.For example, an unavoidable car repair or healthcare bill can force difficult trade-offs between personal needs and business priorities.When cash is constrained, insurance may feel like a nice-to-have rather than an immediate necessity, leading some entrepreneurs to delay or forgo coverage. In fact, 25% of entrepreneurs say they have made personal purchases instead of paying for business insurance.However, the overlap between business and personal finances is exactly why insurance matters.The right protections can help entrepreneurs weather unexpected challenges without jeopardizing their business goals or personal financial security. For many small business owners, that peace of mind may be more accessible than they realize, as coverage is often less costly than expected.Entrepreneurs continue to bet on themselvesBusiness owners may worry about what could go wrong, but they haven’t lost faith in what could go right.Despite mounting macroeconomic pressures and growing awareness of risk, optimism remains a defining characteristic of entrepreneurship. Half of all entrepreneurs (50%) are very confident they’ll still be in business in five years. ERGO NEXT That confidence may be rooted in a natural tendency toward optimism, but it’s also shaped by experience. More than three-quarters of entrepreneurs (77%) say they’ve become more proactive at identifying and managing risks as their company has matured.Worrying about tomorrow, believing in the futureOne theme appears consistently throughout the data: Economic and business challenges have not diminished the entrepreneurial spirit. Even as many business owners regularly worry about keeping their doors open, they still believe the rewards of entrepreneurship outweigh the obstacles.Their confidence to take calculated risks often comes from knowing the business is protected against setbacks that can be anticipated and managed.MethodologyERGO NEXT Insurance surveyed 501 U.S. small business owners, founders and sole proprietors about their business risk profiles. The respondent pool consisted of 250 entrepreneurs in their first year of business and 251 entrepreneurs in their first 2-5 years of business. The survey was conducted April 29 – May 12, 2026.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Empowering Abilities Boosters hold mums fundraiser The Empowering Abilities Booster Organization is welcoming fall with its second annual mum sale, featuring locally grown hardy mums, a news release says. Each purchase supports opportunities for adults with disabilities to build friendships, make memories and enjoy meaningful social connections. The Empowering Abilities Boosters are committed to providing fun, engaging social activities foradults with [...]
	Herbert Hoover Museum to reopen Thursday after major renovation The hometown of Iowa’s only U.S. President will celebrate the grand reopening of the newly-renovated museum dedicated to his life.

Friday, August 7th, 2026

Thursday, August 6th, 2026