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

Monday, August 3rd, 2026
	Fire volunteers will resign Oct. 1 All 20 members of the Eldridge Volunteer Fire Company will resign effective Oct. 1, it was announced at Monday’s city council meeting. Reading a statement on behalf of the EVFC during the public comment portion of Monday’s meeting, member Bryan Yanke said all members were “formally declining consideration of appointment as a member of the City of Eldridge Fire Department. Collectively, our membership represents 165 years of experience, not one of whom has opted to accept an appointment to the City Department.” This decision imperils the vote of the city council on July 20 to move forward with a hybrid paid/volunteer department model. While the city voted Monday to begin the hiring process for a full-time, paid chief, as the EVFC’s statement read, “The City will not be able to operate this department by hiring a single paid employee.” The statement said the department’s commitment to serving the people of Eldridge has not changed. Rather, their lack of confidence in the administration led to the decision of all members to resign. “This administration has signaled, through both its decisions and its public comments, that it intends to move forward without the operational leadership and infrastructure necessary to sustain fire and EMS services in this community,” Yanke read. “That gap will not fill itself, but will be filled by whoever is able to show up, which in a hybrid-volunteer model without adequate support, that burden falls heaviest on the volunteer members and the families who sacrifice alongside them.” The statement read that the EVFC presented the city with a detailed budget request, outlining the department’s needs, supporting information on those needs, and a solution to address current staffing shortfalls. The EVFC says the city has yet to present a budget plan, a significant transition strategy or a long-term vision for the department. “For an entity that has, by their own words, been planning to take this department over since May of 2025, they appear to be woefully underprepared for the task ahead, and we view this as a clear demonstration that the City does not fully grasp, nor appreciate, what it’s taking on,” the statement continued. “We are not willing to demand our members carry the consequences of that incompetence, nor ask our families to absorb the cost of it at home.” Mayor Scott Campbell and members of the council were taken aback by the announcement. As the meeting moved towards business matters involving the establishment of the city-run fire department, Campbell acknowledged public comment at the meeting asking the council to either reconsider or slow down the process of transitioning. “We had a lot of public comment tonight … and I do believe that everybody here has heard what you guys have to say. I don’t think any of those comments were taken lightly at all,” he said. “But it’s really clear to me that we have to find a path for working together. We can’t be hostile. We can’t be at each other’s throats. We have to be able to have conversations about this. We have to have open minds, and that’s what I’m trying to figure out over the last couple of weeks, why this hasn’t happened. “Two weeks ago, we were told that 10 members would leave. Last week, I had a conversation with a firefighter – he said we’d be lucky to have three, and maybe one member of the leadership team. Tonight, we learned they’re all going to walk away,” Campbell continued. “And it’s disheartening. It’s just disheartening and it saddens me.” Campbell said he regretted comments he made at the June 15 meeting. “Everybody has said things they regret. At least I do. I’m the first to admit that. And I wish I wouldn’t have said back in June that it’s all about the money. Absolutely. Those words were said in frustration, but they didn’t need to be said.” However, he also said he believed the path chosen by the council was still the best path forward and said he had confidence in city staff to see the transition through. Campbell also said that he had offered to meet with members of the fire department privately and had received no response. Members of the EVFC took umbrage to this comment, countering that they had told Campbell they would prefer to meet publicly. As the statement read, “We offered to meet publicly so that all council members and the community could remain informed. That offer stands, as we have nothing to hide.” Following the meeting, fire chief Keith Schneckloth said the EVFC was still open to having an open conversation with the council. “We’d love to have a sit-down conversation. We encourage a committee the whole meeting to have discussions about this. I can’t speak as to if there be an ability to ratify where we’re at today but as we have said the whole time, we’re very transparent, very open, and we’d love to have conversation about it.” Schneckloth also emphasized that the members of the EVFC remain committed to the citizens of Eldridge. “We will fulfill our responsibilities to serving them” Campbell agreed that he wants to keep the lines of communication open with the EVFC. “We’ve communicated that we still want to communicate with them, have discussions with them, and they will be part of the process of hiring a new chief when it comes to that. So, we will start the hiring process tomorrow, or the next day. We’ll post a position and see what happens.” Campbell also said he believed the search for a chief will be productive. “We believe we’ll have good candidates, and we had great candidates when we looked for a police chief several years ago, and I think the same is true here,” he said. Council member Ryan Iossi, who has served on the negotiating team with the fire department for the last year, said now was an opportunity for the volunteers to be a part of making a new department. “Now that we’re moving forward, if they want to be involved in it, now’s their chance. And as a former paramedic and firefighter, you just don’t hang that up and walk away. It’s not what’s in you. So, while they’re all upset at this point — and I can understand that — I’m hoping that they sit back and take a couple breaths and rethink the situation. Because I do think, personally, that if they were involved with the hiring of the chief and the processes of building this as a partially city-run department, I think that they might see some excitement in it. I think they might realize some opportunities that they did not have before.” Iossi said a lot of how the transition plays out will depend on how much the EVFC wants to be involved. “My other hope is that if they were involved and helped hire a chief, or if they decided not to be involved when we hired a chief, that they would then realize and reconsider that Oct. 1 deadline to help the citizens and Eldridge do the transition.” Noah Glasgow contributed reporting
	'This was a monster': Families return to devastation after Washington fires Some Spokane residents returned to their neighborhoods to find their homes in ruins or covered in ash after the fires.
	Rock Island County prosecuting first case involving AI-generated child sexual abuse material 36-year-old Bjorn Boydston was arrested in July on 10 felony charges.
	Eldridge City Council passes first reading of ordinances to absorb fire department The vote followed an announcement by the nonprofit volunteer department that, were the city to continue with the process, the 20 volunteers would resign effective Oct. 1.
	Eldridge volunteer firefighters say they’ll walk if city takeover proceeds All 20 members of the Eldridge Volunteer Fire Company have formally declined to join a new city-run fire department, as the city council advances an ordinance to take over the department ahead of an Oct. 1, 2026, deadline.
	Rock Island County prosecuting first case of AI-generated child sexual abuse material 36-year-old Bjorn Boydston was arrested in July on 10 felony charges.
	Davenport man wins largest Instaplay jackpot to date Jered Sandry won $545,000 with his winning ticket.
	Cinemark swings into record domestic weekend box office with 'Spider-Man' Cinemark Holdings, Inc. has announced that July 31-Aug. 2 was the biggest domestic weekend box office of all time for the company, propelled by the opening of "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," with additional contribution from "The Odyssey’s" strong holdover performance, a news release says. Cinemark has a multiplex in Davenport, Additionally, the web-slinging success of "Spider-Man: Brand New [...]
	RIBCO closes for reorganization; owner commits to 'keep my dream alive' The owner of RIBCO confirmed Monday night with Our Quad Cities News that RIBCO is closed, but only temporarily for a reorganization. "My first commitment is to make RIBCO work and keep my dream alive," Zach Edwards said in a phone interview from Seattle. He said he is experiencing some health issues and is seeing [...]
	Free, four‑day Alternating Currents festival set for Aug. 13–16 Alternating Currents returns Aug. 13–16 with more than 200 free music, film, comedy and art events across downtown Davenport, Rock Island and Bettendorf.
	Bettendorf man sentenced to probation on child sex abuse materials, drug charges A Bettendorf man has been sentenced after he pleaded guilty to possession of a depiction of a minor in a sex act and possession with the intent to deliver marijuana.
	Davenport police warn of growing scam losses Americans lost a record $16 billion to fraud in 2025, with imposter scams leading the way, according to the FTC. Davenport police warn against pressure tactics.
	Sewer overflow discharges into Mississippi River Residents are asked to avoid the area around 13th Street and Waverly Road.
	Muscatine evaluates 200 block of downtown after building collapse Buildings on 201 and 203 E. 2nd St. in Muscatine collapsed late Friday night. They were designated for demolition earlier this summer, and now the city of Muscatine is evaluating the area via drone footage. Mayor Brad Bark said it appears that the neighboring buildings are stable for now, despite structural connections throughout the block. [...]
	Death Notice: Benjamin Mark Mink A memorial service for Benjamin Mark Mink, 84, of Eldridge, will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, at Chambers Funeral Home, Eldridge. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Inurnment will follow at Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery. Mr. Mink died Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026, at his home. Memorials may be made to worldvision.org. Online condolences may be made at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com. A full obituary will appear in the Aug. 5 edition of The NSP.
	Iowa nursing home inspections now meet federal standards, audit shows Iowa is inspecting nursing homes more frequently and is now meeting federal standards for the first time in years, according to a report released Monday by State Auditor Rob Sand.
	Court clears way for Iowa to restrict vape Products A federal appeals court has cleared the way for Iowa to begin enforcing its vape registry law, a move supporters say will help reduce youth vaping but one that local vape shop owners say could dramatically impact their business.
	Muscatine building collapse disrupts traffic and local businesses Update on the Muscatine building collapse.
	19th Century cemetery gets state grant to help with upkeep 10 Illinois cemeteries were chosen to support projects aimed at revitalizing burial grounds.
	Man charged with recklessly driving in Davenport with 4 children in his vehicle Police allege 23-year-old Leo Eckholm of Des Moines was conducting burnouts, and the children were were nearly thrown out of his vehicle.
	Streaming special on soon-to-be NFL Hall of Famer Roger Craig premieres tonight on the News 8 App WQAD Sports Director Kory Kuffler joined The Current to speak about the special and what's he learned about our hometown NFL Hall of Famer.
	Davenport man wins $545,153 jackpot after buying Iowa Lottery ticket at Hy-Vee Jered Sandry of Davenport won $545,153 as part of a jackpot prize in the Iowa Lottery's Blank Check Progressive InstaPlay game.
	Back-to-school tax-free holiday: What to know Students across the QCA are heading back to school beginning this week. Illinois' Back-to-School State Sales Tax Holiday runs August 7-16, and Iowa's Annual Sales Tax Holiday is August 7-8. Our Quad Cities News correspondent Jeremy Ross looks at the relief families can expect at the register for back-to-school clothes and supplies.
	Clock Inc. in dire need of donations as grant funding becomes sparse and demand for services increases The nonprofit provides a range of services and resources at no cost. It's the only LGBTQIA+ community center between Des Moines and Chicago, leaders said.
	3 children from the Quad Cities area have been selected as 2026 University of Iowa Health Care Kid Captains Our local captains include Harlow Taube of Orion, JJ Ward of Davenport and Ellie Walker of Clinton.
	House Ethics panel recommends censure for Chuck Edwards after harassment allegations After a months-long investigation, the ethics committee recommended censure for Edwards because of "persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct towards two young female staffers."
	Davenport police warn of rising AI voice, romance, and investment scams Davenport police are warning local residents of a sharp rise in high-tech fraud, including AI voice and romance scams designed to prey on emotions.
	SBA will be in Warren County to help businesses affected by tornado The Small Business Administration will be at Monmouth City Hall from Tuesday, Aug. 4 through Aug. 19 to meet with business owners and discuss available services for those affected by lastmonth’s tornado, a news release says. The temporary office is open to all businesses in Warren County. Representatives will be available to review recovery options [...]
	Davenport man wins thousands in Iowa Lottery jackpot It’s been some time since there was a lottery winner in the Quad Cities, but a Davenport man has just won an Iowa Lottery prize worth over $545,000. Jered Sandry won the jackpot prize in the Iowa Lottery’s “Blank Check Progressive” InstaPlay game. He bought his winning ticket at Hy-Vee, 1823 E. Kimberly Road in [...]
	Illinois launches new program to provide food benefits to people who lost SNAP Illinois launches the FRESH program, giving a one-time $400 food benefit to local families who lost SNAP due to federal rule changes.
	Cook review: 'Saturday Night Live' fans will want to take a look at 'Lorne' Every "Saturday Night Live" fan will want to see this. I'm sure that includes millions of people, because this 50-year-old show still appeals to generations. And it's the heart of producer Lorne Michaels, the "Lorne" in the title, who - even after you've watched this documentary - will remain an enigmatic icon of television. If [...]
	Love, lies and lost money: How to stay safe from romance scammers Romance scams lead to billions of dollars in losses worldwide every year. According to AARP, about 1 in 10 people age 50 and over say they have made what they consider a romantic connection online and were asked for financial help or to invest in cryptocurrency. Our Quad Cities News spoke with Randy Meier, director [...]
	Texas Roadhouse coming to Moline Company officials don't yet have an opening date for the restaurant, which will be built on 34th Avenue near 36th Street, just before the John Deere Road overpass.
	Des Moines man charged with recklessly driving in Davenport with 4 children in the vehicle Police allege 23-year-old Leo Eckholm of Des Moines was conducting burnouts, and the children were were nearly thrown out of his vehicle.
	3 Quad Cities area children named Hawkeye Kid Captains for 2026 Three inspirational Quad Cities area pediatric patients have been selected as Iowa Hawkeye Kid Captains for the 2026 football season.
	Peter, Principled: “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” There are essentially three plotlines fighting for space in director Destin Daniel Cretton's Spider-Man: Brand New Day – even though, given its generous 145-minute running length, you wouldn't think any in-fighting was necessary.
	Sanitary sewer overflow discharges into Mississippi River, residents asked to avoid area Davenport Public Works is notifying residents of a sanitary sewage overflow on 13th Street and Waverly Road.
	Ripple effects: After Hearn, three others have their Reflecting Pool charges dropped Prosecutors dropped their case against David Hearn on Friday, blaming Reflecting Pool damage on a "botched installation" rather than vandalism. That has implications for other people who were charged.
	Ripple effects: Three people have Reflecting Pool charges dropped after Hearn request Federal prosecutors moved to drop their case against David Hearn, blaming Reflecting Pool damage on a "botched installation" rather than vandalism. That has implications for others who were charged.
	With U.S. doors shutting, Cubans turn to Brazil for asylum For years, many Cubans hoping to leave the island looked to the United States. Now, with legal pathways largely closed, a growing number are heading to Brazil instead.
	Iowa Hawkeyes name 2026 Kid Captains The Iowa Hawkeyes have announced their Kid Captains for the 2026 college football season and three of them are from the QCA. Click here to learn about this year’s Kid Captains and see honorees from previous years. Twelve Kid Captains were chosen, one for each Iowa football game. This year’s Kid Captains include: The Kid [...]
	Enzo's Burger opening in late 2026 in Davenport Enzo's Chicken announced over the weekend it plans to open a new burger restaurant, Enzo's Burger, in Davenport later this year.
	Photos: Wildfires in Spokane lead to thousands of evacuations Wildfires in Spokane have destroyed hundreds of homes and led to evacuation orders for 60,000 people.
	Iowa announces 2026 Kid Captains Since 2009, the Iowa Hawkeyes have partnered with the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital to honor pediatric patients and share their stories of resilience. In that time, over 200 Kid Captains have been honored. Monday, the university announced the 2026 list of Kid Captains. To see the full list, and learn [...]
	Judge denies Trump administration access to Illinois voter data A federal judge ruled Illinois is not required to hand over sensitive, unredacted voter registration data to the Trump administration's DOJ.
	Two people in Michigan have died after becoming ill with cyclosporiasis They are the first reported deaths linked to a massive outbreak of the intestinal illness that began in May.
	As more unmarried couples buy homes, financial conversations are becoming essential As more unmarried couples buy homes, financial conversations are becoming essentialOwning a home is still a big part of the American dream. Getting there, however, looks very different from what it did for previous generations. People still buy homes today (sales increased by 3.2% in May 2026, according to the National Association of Realtors), but they face higher hurdles, such as the exorbitant cost of living and soaring housing prices.One way to overcome these hurdles is to buy a home with a partner. Yet, because younger generations (mainly Millennials and Gen Z) are either putting off marriage or skipping it altogether, homeowners are more likely to be unmarried.A 2024 Zillow report shows that 63% of buyers share ownership of their home with at least one other person, but only half of them co-buy with a spouse. The rest prefer to share with a romantic partner, friend, or even a relative.Splitting costs makes financial sense, but co-owners need clear agreements to avoid disputes if the relationship ends. Before signing the paperwork, Underwood Law, legal experts in dividing jointly owned property, recommends having an honest conversation about money, ownership, and what happens if life doesn't go according to plan.What It Means to Own Property With an Unmarried PartnerWhen hearing about unmarried couples that buy homes, the mind immediately goes to romantic partners, but this isn’t always the case.The main issue is that U.S. property laws treat unmarried individuals as separate legal entities rather than a single, blended financial entity. If two people no longer want to be co-owners, they won’t benefit from the equitable distribution of assets that’s common for married couples.On the plus side, combining two incomes and credit histories allows co-owners to qualify for a larger mortgage and split the high costs of a down payment, property taxes, and maintenance. Plus, instead of throwing money at rent, they build long-term wealth through home appreciation.Home co-ownership can also offer tax advantages. For example, one partner may choose to itemize deductions (mortgage interest and property taxes) while the other claims the standard deduction, potentially maximizing the household's overall tax savings.The Real Estate Hostage SituationNo one likes to imagine a good relationship coming to an end, but life is unpredictable. Romantic partners break up, close friends drift apart, and even family members can have falling-outs.Being tied to someone through a mortgage after the relationship ends may lead to the discovery that moving on emotionally is much easier than moving on financially. Things can get complicated if one person wants to sell and the other refuses. Unlike a divorce court, which systematically divides assets, there is no automatic legal mechanism to handle a breakup.Misaligned intentions regarding property decisions can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal battle called a partition lawsuit to force a sale.This situation can be avoided with a legal agreement between co-owners that outlines what happens if their interests no longer align or if one partner’s circumstances change drastically (loss of income, illness, or death).But to put together this type of agreement, it’s important to have some honest, albeit uncomfortable, conversations.Conversations to Have Before Searching For a HomeWhile it’s not unlikely for unmarried couples to buy homes, having honest, open conversations about finances, decision-making, asset division, and the future in general is still a touchy subject.ExpectationsWhat does each person envision this partnership to be?What are the goals regarding homeownership?What type of property are they hoping to buy, where, and why?Is there a preferred location? Do each partner’s expectations align?What’s the budget for the down payment and mortgage?How will disagreements regarding what to buy, repair, or replace be handled?These questions will help gauge desires and expectations as joint homeowners. These will serve as future frameworks for future agreements. Otherwise, this will only be a nice talk, with no power to enforce the terms should push come to shove.FinancesIncome (present and expected) and debtCredit scores (they can impact loan terms or interest rates)Savings that can go into the down payment, moving expenses, and closing costsMonthly costs (mortgage, insurance, utilities) that each party is comfortable supportingFinancial goals now and for the futureHow much to contribute monthly to the emergency fundWho Applies For The Mortgage and Who Holds the TitlePay attention: A name on the mortgage isn’t the same as ownership. The title determines who the owner is.The mortgage is a financial contract with a lender. It is a promise to repay a loan. Being on the mortgage means being legally obligated to pay for the house, but it confers zero rights of ownership.The deed is the physical legal document that transfers ownership, and the title is the legal right to use and own the property. Whoever is named on the deed owns the home.If one co-owner qualifies for the loan (perhaps due to higher income or stronger credit), but both names are on the deed, that person is legally obligated to repay the full debt. Their partner owns half of the home, with zero loan obligations. That's an imbalanced arrangement.This distinction matters. Get a lawyer involved if there's any doubt about who's on the mortgage versus the deed.Open Communication and A Solid AgreementFor many couples, buying a home can be a smart financial decision. Before signing on the dotted line, take the time to have the uncomfortable conversations.All parties should be on the same page about money, ownership, responsibilities, and what happens if circumstances change.Just as importantly, don't rely on verbal promises or good intentions alone. A home is one of the largest financial commitments most people will ever make, so it's worth protecting with a written co-ownership agreement drafted by a qualified legal professional.Setting clear expectations from the start may feel awkward in the moment, but it can save both partners significant stress, expense, and conflict down the road.This story was produced by Underwood Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Hear professional baseball scouting stories in Bishop Hill Professional baseball fans can hear the behind-the-scenes stories of professional baseball scouting in Bishop Hill. Author Tim Pletkovich will present “Confessions of a Baseball Scout”on Saturday, August 15 at 1 p.m. at the Steeple Building Museum in Bishop Hill. The program is free and open to the public. The Steeple Building is located at 103 [...]
	Best fabrics for sweating: Wear this, not that Best fabrics for sweating: Wear this, not thatYou know the feeling. You pull on a fresh shirt in the morning and by midday, there's a dark patch spreading under your arm. Or your black tee has picked up white marks from your deodorant before you've even left the house. And that polyester gym shirt, the one you washed twice, still somehow smells. What most guys don't consider is that the fabric they're wearing is doing a lot of the heavy lifting. The right one works with your body. The wrong one lets it down.AXE, the deodorant brand for guys, details how to choose the best fabrics for sweating, what to skip, and how to stop losing the sweat battle before the day even starts.The fabric factor: Why it matters more than you thinkNot all fabrics are built the same. Here are three things that determine which side your shirt is on:How quickly sweat evaporates. Some fabrics let sweat evaporate. Others trap it, bake it, and hand it straight to the bacteria that cause odor.How visible sweat is on the surface. Cotton absorbs moisture and shows it as dark patches. Performance synthetics pull it away from your skin before it becomes visible.How bacteria interact with the fabric. Body odor happens when bacteria break down sweat into the compounds that make you smell. Certain synthetic fabrics trap bacteria, which is why a worn-once polyester gym shirt can smell worse than a cotton tee worn the same way.“Clothing doesn’t just absorb sweat; it changes the climate sitting on top of your skin, which directly determines how much your body sweats,” explains Unilever R&D scientist Matt Annecharico. “Breathable fabrics and natural fibers allow for more evaporation, while synthetic fabrics that fit tightly don’t allow for as much evaporation, which means more sweat can occur and less opportunity to cool you down.”Choosing the right sweat-wicking fabric for workouts or the best sweatproof fabric for all-day wear is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. AXE Fabrics that work with you: Natural optionsNatural fabrics are a solid starting point. Most breathe well and feel comfortable against the skin, though some handle sweat better than others.CottonBreathable, soft, and the most common fabric out there. The catch: it soaks up sweat and shows dark patches fast. Great for low-key days and undershirts. Not your friend during workouts or full days in the heat.LinenThe hot weather MVP. Loose weave, dries fast, keeps air moving. It wrinkles like crazy, but for summer and outdoor settings, it's hard to beat. Linen-cotton blends give you the best of both.Merino woolSeriously underrated. Naturally odor-resistant, temperature-regulating and wicks moisture well. You can wear it multiple days without the funk. Real merino costs more, but earns it.Bamboo / TencelSoft, breathable, and better at moisture management than cotton. Bamboo is easy on your skin and comes from a natural source. Tencel holds up better over time. Both can shrink, so check the label before you wash them.Fabrics that work with you: Synthetic optionsSynthetics get a bad rap, mostly because cheap versions are genuinely awful. Engineered performance synthetics are a different story; they’re some of the best sweat-managing options out there.Performance polyesterThe best sweat-resistant fabric for workouts. Wicks fast, dries fast, doesn't wrinkle. Just make sure it's performance polyester. That’s because basic polyester is the opposite. (See below).NylonQuick-drying, lightweight and often blended with elastane for stretch. Good for active wear. Gets clammy indoors when there's no airflow, so skip it for the office.Elastane / SpandexNever worn alone, always blended in for stretch. A small percentage keeps a shirt comfortable. Higher percentages mean compression territory. Check what the main fiber is first.ModalSoft, breathable and moisture-wicking. A solid upgrade from cotton for everyday wear and underwear. Feels more natural than polyester but performs better than basic cotton.Fabrics that make sweating worseSome fabrics don't just fail to help; they actively work against you:Non-performance polyester: traps heat, holds odor, and survives multiple washes smelling rough.Rayon and viscose: go limp and lose their shape when wet. Not built for sweat.Heavy synthetic blends: common in cheap dress shirts. Avoid.Tight, non-breathable fits in any fabric: no ventilation means more heat, more sweat.Quick answer: For guys who sweat heavily, the fabric that makes you sweat least is performance polyester for high-activity contexts, and merino wool or linen for everyday wear in heat.Dress smarter, sweat lessWear loose layersTight-fitting clothing traps heat against the skin and makes sweating worse. A relaxed fit lets air circulate. For dress shirts, a slim-but-not-skinny cut works best.Choose colors that work for youPatterns hide sweat well. Solid pastels and light grays can be the worst offenders for visible patches.Use undershirtsA moisture-wicking undershirt absorbs sweat before it hits your outer shirt. One of the easiest ways to get your shirts to hide sweat.Get your underwear and socks rightUnderwear: Cotton (everyday), modal (best for comfort and moisture management), bamboo (most breathable). Avoid 100% polyester boxer briefs for daily wear.Socks: Merino wool (year-round, naturally odor-resistant) or technical synthetic blends (athletic). Avoid pure cotton socks for active wear. They hold moisture and create the conditions for athlete's foot. Why the right routine finishes the fixThe right shirt gets you some of the way there. For the rest, you need the right routine. Here's how to handle the most common problems:Sweat patches on dress shirtsThe most effective fix isn't fabric alone. It's an antiperspirant applied to clean, dry skin the night before. Sweat production is the lowest at night, which lets the active ingredients fully bond to your pits. Depending on the product, protection can last up to 48 hours or more.White marks on dark shirtsTwo things: apply less (two swipes are enough) and let it dry fully (60-90 seconds for stick) before getting dressed. A dry spray format is the best answer for guys who want an antiperspirant that doesn't leave white marks on dark clothing.Heavy sweatersIf you deal with heavy sweat, using an antiperspirant not a deodorant is key. But start with a body wash from the same scent family to clear bacteria from your skin before it has a chance to break down sweat into odor. Finish with a complementary body spray for max effect, reinforcing fragrance and odor control throughout the day.FAQsWhat fabric makes you sweat the least?Choose linen and merino wool for everyday wear, and performance polyester for workouts to wick moisture away fast.Is 60% cotton 40% polyester ok?Yes, this is a solid everyday blend. It’s more durable than pure cotton and more breathable than pure polyester. Not ideal for intense workouts, though.Do you sweat more in polyester or cotton?Depends on the polyester. Performance polyester wicks moisture fast, but cheap synthetics trap heat. Cotton breathes well but holds moisture once absorbed.Is 80% cotton 20% polyester bad?Not at all. It’s soft and breathable like cotton, with just enough polyester for durability and quicker drying. A reliable everyday blend.How do I stop sweat patches from appearing on clothing?Three things: breathable fabrics, an antiperspirant applied the night before, and a moisture-wicking undershirt if you’re wearing a dress shirt. Patterned colors hide patches better than solid pastels.What deodorant goes on dry and doesn't leave white marks on clothes?Switch to a dry spray. It dries instantly, so it won't transfer to clothing. If you prefer sticks, two swipes are enough. Let the product dry before dressing.Which men's grooming products work best for heavy sweaters?Apply an antiperspirant the night before, use an antibacterial body wash in the morning, and a body spray from the same scent family. That stack handles the heaviest everyday sweat scenarios.Your fabric choice is the first line of defense against sweat, but it works best when your routine backs it up. Get your shirt fabric right and you're already ahead. The best material for sweating also depends on its purpose. Go natural for everyday wear, go performance for the gym, and layer your products. Once you've got the right fabrics working with you, smelling good stops being something you think about and starts being something that just happens.This story was produced by AXE and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	City of LeClaire announces levee boat ramp closed The LeClaire Fire Department announced the levee boat ramp is closed until further notice.
	National accounting firm expanding Iowa footprint into the Quad-Cities UHY has more than 40 offices in the United States, including in Des Moines and Ames.
	Nonprofit grants available for Mississippi River programming Grants from the Quad Cities Community Foundation will help area nonprofits connect their programming with the Mississippi River. Quad Cities Community Foundation QC River Connections Grants support nonprofits that work to improve river health, expand access to nature, strengthen neighborhoods and deepen community connections to the Mississippi River. The grants are guided by the Clean [...]
	Here are 5 ways to stay on top of your buy now, pay later loan Here are 5 ways to stay on top of your buy now, pay later loanBuy now, pay later (BNPL) services are easier to use than ever. They're available in stores or at checkout online, and even bundled with credit cards. They're especially useful for people who want to pay off large items over time without using a credit card or incurring interest.In fact, because these payments are easy to split up, it’s easy for seemingly small payments to quietly crowd your budget.Recent Accredited Debt Relief data from a survey of nearly 1,200 U.S. adults shows that 19% of U.S. adults carry at least one unpaid balance on a BNPL or retail installment plan, and nearly half of BNPL users (47%) have experienced financial consequences.BNPL is a relatively new payment system, so it can be confusing to understand how to manage BNPL debt or pay it off.If you want to know how to manage your BNPL debt, this guide from Accredited Debt Relief will walk you through the steps you need to shop with confidence.5 ways to manage your BNPL balance1. Know your balanceChecking your account balances can be anxiety-inducing, but if you regularly use BNPL, it's important to know how much you're paying. According to the Accredited Debt Relief survey, 16% of users say they were surprised by how much they'd paid once they added up their balances.If you haven't already, make a list of your BNPL accounts and log into each one. Write down the balance, then make a special note if any balances are overdue.Next, check your bank transaction history and statements to double-check how much you're spending each month on BNPL payments. Accredited Debt Relief 2. Know your loan termsBNPL plans split payments evenly over several weeks or months. Short-term plans generally don't charge interest, unlike credit cards, which charge interest on revolving debt. But you might pay interest or additional fees if you miss payments or choose a longer repayment timeline.Whether you have an existing balance or you're about to start a new plan, read the fine print to understand your:Plan length: How long will you pay the balance? Plans can last anywhere from four weeks to a year.Down payment: Do you have to pay anything immediately? Some plans require a payment to begin.Payments: How much will you pay each month?Due dates: Make a note of due dates, preferably in a calendar or task app, so you can be reminded when the next payment is due. That way, you won't incur any late fees.Fees: How much will you pay in total using BNPL compared to paying up front? Does this plan charge interest or extra fees?Penalties: Payments can snowball over time, significantly impacting BNPL users. Fifteen percent of BNPL users have missed a payment or incurred late fees, according to the survey.3. Make a repayment goalIf you have an overdue BNPL balance, especially a large one, paying it off can feel overwhelming. A goal can help.Financial goals are easier to achieve if they're specific and attainable. "Pay off my BNPL balance" can feel vague and easy to ignore. "Pay off my BNPL balance today" is more specific, but it also may not be realistic.The best goal for you will depend on your financial situation, but these examples are great options:Pay my overdue balance within six months.Pay $100 toward my overdue balance every month for the rest of the year.Don't take out any more BNPL loans for the next six months.4. Adjust your budget (or make one from scratch)Now that you have a financial goal in mind, it's time to work it into your budget, just like you would a student loan or credit card payment. (If you don't have a budget, you can take this opportunity to make one.)Update your budget and include your regular BNPL payments. Your top priority is avoiding late payments or accidental interest charges, so you should prioritize repayments over discretionary spending. 5. Set intentions for the futureIf you want to avoid overpaying on loans in the future, set intentions now about how and when you'll use BNPL to purchase something. Maybe you only want to use them for large purchases or for a single spending category.The key is not to use BNPL loans impulsively. Fifteen percent of BNPL users say they spent more than intended because the option was there at checkout. A good rule of thumb is to treat BNPL as a tool, not a way to make purchases you wouldn't normally be able to afford.Before making a purchase with BNPL, consider asking yourself: Could I afford this if I paid it in full now?Will paying this in installments make it harder to afford bills and other necessities later?Can I save money and pay for this later, instead?BNPL loans are like any other form of loan or credit. There's nothing wrong with using them, but consider how to use them mindfully.MethodologyThis survey was conducted by YouGov on behalf of Accredited Debt Relief, May 12-13, 2026, among 1,194 U.S. adults aged 18+. Figures are weighted and nationally representative. Spending category data reflects responses among BNPL/installment plan users only (n=573). Select-all-that-apply percentages reflect individual response rates and should not be summed. Margin of error ±5% at the 95% confidence level.This story was produced by Accredited Debt Relief and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	School cameras may protect students. But who protects the footage? School cameras may protect students. But who protects the footage?Look around you at any school, and the chances are you’re going to see a security camera.Entrances, parking lots, hallways, reception areas, bus lanes and playgrounds all need visibility. When an incident occurs, footage can help staff work out what took place and why.But recently, the risk around student images has changed. AI has made ordinary images easier to copy, alter, share and weaponize. That doesn’t mean school CCTV footage is being widely misused for AI, but it does mean schools need to treat every identifiable image of a student with more care than they did a few years ago.Recent research has shown that 40% of public high school students had heard of a deepfake depicting someone associated with their school being shared during the 2023-2024 school year.The Associated Press reports that schools across the U.S. are dealing with students using AI to turn ordinary images of classmates into sexually explicit deepfakes. It also noted that at least half of U.S. states enacted legislation in 2025 addressing fabricated images created with generative AI.The point is that with the advent of AI, student images have become more vulnerable and a lot easier to misuse.Schools already collect images of their students in lots of forms — website photos, ID systems, social media posts and security cameras.A hallway camera may show a child upset after a fight. A playground camera may capture a safeguarding concern. A reception camera may record a parent dispute. A parking lot camera may show students, staff and visitors moving through the site at the same time.This type of camera footage shouldn’t be readily available or easy to export without a good reason. It shouldn’t sit in a system where lots of people share the same login, with no record of who viewed what.For a long time, the school camera conversation was mostly about coverage: which doors, corridors, parking lots or playgrounds were being watched. This is still important, but what’s becoming more important is the governance of the footage — who can access it and what they can do with it, Videoloft reports.Student images are now more vulnerableWIRED analyzed reported incidents involving AI-generated deepfake nude images in schools and they found that nearly 90 schools and more than 600 students have been affected by this across 28 countries since 2023.In the U.K., The Guardian reported that child safety experts had urged schools to remove identifiable pupil photos from websites and social media because AI tools were being used to manipulate images of children into sexually explicit material for blackmail. The report referred to an unnamed U.K. secondary school where 150 manipulated images from a blackmail attempt were classified as child sexual abuse material under U.K. law.This U.K. example just shows how frightening the risk can be. A photo that is totally harmless on a school website can now be altered and used in ways the school never intended.Schools are being urged to be more careful about what images they post online, and the same care should be applied to camera footage. A few years ago, a school CCTV policy may have focused mainly on camera placement, storage length and visible warning signs. Whilst still important, it’s no longer enough. Schools now need to think about access, exports, audit logs, remote viewing, account security, clip sharing, retention and deletion.Cameras help when the rules are clearCameras in schools are essential for safeguarding. Schools have large sites to protect, with busy entrances, parking lots, sports areas, playgrounds, corridors and buildings that may be used outside normal school hours.When an incident happens, staff need to know what took place and why. Parents want answers. Police or insurers may need evidence. Teachers may need protection from false allegations. Students may need support after something that was not seen by an adult at the time.CCTV footage is essential in those scenarios, but the management of that footage needs clearer rules. Schools need to be able to show who can view live footage, who can watch recordings and why, who can export clips, how long footage is kept for and what happens when the video footage isn’t needed anymore.Access is where schools need to be stricterWho can access a school’s CCTV footage is important. Different people need different levels of visibility. A receptionist may need to see the front entrance. A facilities manager may need to review an act of vandalism. A safeguarding lead may need access to footage linked to student welfare. Senior leadership may need export rights for serious incidents. External security teams may need limited access for specific sites or times.However, that doesn’t mean every person needs full access to everything on the system. In fact, the fewer people who can view, download or share student footage, the lower the risk of mistakes, misuse or accidental disclosure.Exporting needs particular care and attention. Once a video clip is exported, it leaves the system, and control becomes harder. For instance, a file sent by email is easier to forward or misuse. If a clip of a student is exported, the school should be able to see who exported it, when they did it, and why.Retention matters tooKeeping footage for too long creates its own problem. Schools need enough time to review incidents, deal with late reports and preserve evidence where there is a safeguarding, insurance or legal reason to do so. But footage of children should not just sit there indefinitely because no one has reviewed the settings.Retention should be a conscious decision. Keep what is needed. Lock down access while it is stored. Save incident clips properly when they are part of an investigation. Let routine footage expire when it has served its purpose.Parents do not need a technical explanation. They need to know the basics: why the school records, who is allowed to look, how downloads are controlled, and when routine footage disappears.AI makes old CCTV policies look datedMany school camera systems were installed before generative AI became part of everyday life. That doesn’t make those systems obsolete, but it does mean the policies around them may now be out of date.A policy written for an older CCTV system may not say enough about still-image extraction, remote access, staff account removal, clip sharing, vendor access or audit trails. It may not explain how footage governance connects to AI misuse or online safety.Schools are being asked to manage risks that did not look the same even three years ago. Students can create or spread manipulated images quickly and parents are more aware of digital harm. In that environment, “we have cameras” is not enough. Schools need to know how those cameras are governed.A back-to-school safety checkAugust is a practical time to review this. Before students return, schools already check buildings, staffing, routes, schedules, visitor processes and emergency procedures. Camera governance should sit in the same back-to-school review.Before students come back, someone should actually open the system and check it. Some important things to check include removing old staff accounts, reviewing who can watch live and recorded video, check the right people have the access they need - not everyone with access needs download permissionsIt’s also worth checking the messier parts of the process. If a clip needs to go to police, a parent, an insurer or a local authority, who sends it? Is it shared as a controlled link, an email attachment, a download, or something else? If student images are misused or manipulated with AI, do staff know who deals with it?These are the details that usually get tested after something has already gone wrong.The schools that handle video best will not be the ones with the most cameras. They will be the ones that know why they are recording, who can access footage, how it is protected, and when it should be deleted.That is the standard parents should expect. Not because schools should become surveillance sites. Because student footage is now sensitive data. And sensitive data needs rules.This story was produced by Videoloft and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport man facing drug and sex abuse charges enters plea agreement A Davenport man who police alleged gave drugs to and sexually abused a 13-year-old girl has entered into a plea agreement with Scott County prosecutors.
	International Clown Week: Meet circus clown Leo Acton August 1-7 is International Clown Week, and we're celebrating clowns across the world as they entertain and make people laugh. Our Quad Cities News' Brian Weckerly spoke with circus clown Leo Acton ahead of his performances August 12 in Buffalo, Iowa with Culpepper & Merriweather Circus. For show information, click here.
	Saving for children: A goal-based guide to Trump Accounts, 529s, Roth IRAs and custodial accounts Saving for children: A goal-based guide to Trump Accounts, 529s, Roth IRAs and custodial accountsSomeone seeing an ad for Trump Accounts might wonder: How is this different from the 529 plan and custodial account I already set up? Why would I open a retirement account for my 5-year-old?Those questions get to the real issue: These accounts aren’t interchangeable, and the right choice depends on what you’re trying to accomplish.Many American families are trying to balance two priorities: saving for their kids’ college and their own retirement. Now, with the introduction of Trump Accounts (also known as 530A accounts) in July 2026, there’s a new investment account option created especially for children. Alongside 529 plans, Roth IRAs, and custodial accounts, parents are weighing which option — or combination — makes the most sense.The right account depends on whether you’re saving for your child’s education or retirement and how much flexibility and control you need. Sometimes you’ll want more than one. Bob Petix, a private wealth strategist with Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management, breaks down how each account works and when to use it.“It’s less about the account itself and more about what you want the money to do,” Petix says.Key takeawaysTrump Accounts, 529 plans, Roth IRAs, and custodial accounts each serve a different purpose. They are not interchangeable, and choosing the right one depends on your goal.Time is one of the biggest advantages in saving for a child’s future. The earlier you start, the more time even small contributions have to grow and compound.Trump Accounts don’t require earned income, making them accessible for children, but withdrawals are limited until the Trump Account is converted to a Traditional IRA the year the child turns age 18. After that, withdrawals before retirement trigger a 10% additional tax plus ordinary income tax. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 may qualify for a $1,000 federal seed contribution.Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth potential and tax-free withdrawals in retirement, but only children with earned income can contribute.529 plans are built for education and offer meaningful tax advantages, including tax-free growth and tax-free distributions for qualified education expenses, but non-educational withdrawals may trigger taxes and penalties.Custodial accounts offer flexibility, but the child gains full control at the age of termination.Account comparisonsWhile these accounts may be grouped together when talking about kids and money, they are designed to work in different ways. Here’s how each one works.Trump Accounts: This investment account is available to children under 18 and is designed for long-term retirement savings, not necessarily educational spending. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 can elect to receive a $1,000 contribution from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. It’s not automatic, so you’ll have to file an election to claim it.For older children, you can fund the account with up to $5,000 in annual contributions from sources such as family, friends, and employers. Nonprofits can also make contributions, which do not count toward the $5,000 limit. The federal government’s pilot program contribution also does not count toward that limit. Contributions grow tax-deferred, meaning the taxes are delayed until the money is withdrawn. The account converts to a traditional IRA when the child turns 18. The account is in the child’s name, and an adult — typically a parent or guardian — is the custodian until the child turns 18. Investments are limited to low-cost mutual funds and ETFs (exchange-traded funds) that track broad U.S. market indexes.529 plans: This tax-advantaged account is built primarily for education expenses, including college, graduate school, and, in many states, K-12 private school tuition. Contributions grow tax-free, which means investment gains are not taxed when used for qualified education costs. Contributions may be deductible from income taxes in certain states.Roth IRAs: Children can only contribute money they earned, such as from a job, babysitting, or a side hustle, up to the annual IRS contribution limit. Contributions are after-tax, meaning that growth and withdrawals are tax-free.Custodial Accounts (UGMA/UTMA): This is a flexible investment or gifting account opened by an adult as custodian to manage for the benefit of a child. There are no restrictions on how the money is eventually used, but the child gains full legal control of the assets at the age of termination, which is the age the custodial account is required to terminate under the applicable state law. Investment earnings may be taxed under “kiddie tax” rules.You may come across Coverdell Education Savings Accounts. They’re also tax-advantaged accounts built for education expenses, but income limits and a $2,000 annual contribution cap make them a limited option for most families. Petix noted that, for many families, the limits outweigh the benefits.At a glance: How the accounts differTrump AccountsBest for getting a child started on long-term investing early.Designed for retirement-style growth, not short-term use, but with limited distribution options.529 plansBest for education savings.Offers tax advantages and some flexibility but works best when the money is used for eligible educational costs.Roth IRAsBest for working kids and teens.Combines retirement savings with tax-free growth, but contributions must come from earned income.Custodial accounts (UGMA or UTMA)Best for flexible gifting.Can be used for a wide range of expenses, but the child takes full control at the age of termination.Who should consider whatThe account matters less than the goal behind it. “There are so many arrows in your quiver. Understanding which arrows to select really depends on the target,” said Petix. And sometimes you’ll want more than one account.Parents saving for college: Consider a 529 savings plan.Parents wanting to start their child’s retirement investing early: Consider a Trump Account.Parents of working teens or kids with earned income: Consider a Roth IRA.Grandparents giving flexible financial gifts: Consider a custodial account, 529 plan, or Trump Account.Parents with significant assets to transfer: Consider trusts, which are customizable and able to address both education and broader financial goals, but don’t have the tax advantages of the accounts above.Parents with less money to contribute: Don’t count yourself out. Even small contributions can grow over time if you start early and stay invested.Parents who want to take advantage of free money: If you have an eligible child born between 2025 and 2028, consider applying to open a Trump Account and filing for the one-time $1,000 contribution from the federal government.Parents of children who are no longer children: You haven’t missed the chance to help them jumpstart their retirement fund. Petix recalled a friend with daughters in their early 20s who were starting their careers. “Instead of Christmas presents, he and his wife would contribute to their daughters’ IRAs, because while the young women did have earned income, they did not have a lot of disposable income to contribute to their retirement themselves,” Petix said.Why starting early matters, no matter which account you chooseOne of the biggest advantages you can give a child is time: The earlier money is invested, the longer it has to grow.Over time, growth can build on itself. Introducing your children to how investing works can also help build knowledge and habits that can shape financial decisions later in life.Starting early can help in different ways, depending on the goal. For education savings, more time may give 529 contributions a longer runway before tuition bills arrive. For long-term investing, early contributions can stay invested for decades, which is where Trump Accounts may have an advantage for young children who don’t have earned income.“When you consider 18 years of growth before the Trump Account converts to an IRA, and then another 50 years of tax-deferred accumulation, even a small initial investment can make a meaningful difference by retirement,” Petix said.Even small early contributions can snowball. Here’s how that looks on paper:At a 6% annual return, a one-time $1,000 investment at birth grows to about $2,900 by age 18. If left untouched, it will grow to about $53,000 by the time your child is considering retirement at age 68. This example is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the performance of any specific investment.Now consider how additional contributions change the outcome: $5,000 a year (that’s less than $100 a week) for 18 years at a 6% return grows the account to about $154,000 by the time the child turns 18. If you make no further contributions and that money stays invested for another 50 years at the same rate, it could reach roughly $2.8 million.That outcome isn’t driven by contributions alone. It comes from starting early and letting decades of compounding do the heavy lifting.Where the accounts differ is in access and purpose. Trump Accounts remove the hurdle of earned income, a requirement that makes Roth IRAs inaccessible to most young children. The 529 plans serve a different goal. They’re built for education expenses and most effective when you’re confident your child will pursue some form of schooling.How each account works — and what to know before you commitUnderstanding how these accounts change as your child grows is just as important as knowing what they do today. Every account involves tradeoffs. The tax advantages that make these accounts attractive also come with rules, limits, and restrictions.For families thinking about college financial aid, keep in mind that accounts in a child’s name are typically assessed more heavily than parent-owned accounts.Trump AccountsThese long-term retirement accounts are opened in the child’s name and managed by a parent until age 18, when the account converts to a traditional IRA and the child takes full control. Because no earned income is required, you can start contributing as soon as it’s open, which is its main advantage. The tradeoff is flexibility. Withdrawals are limited before the child turns 18. Once the account is converted to a traditional IRA, if your child withdraws the money before retirement, IRA rules generally apply. That means your child will owe regular income tax on the amount plus a 10% additional tax on top of that, unless they meet certain exceptions. Petix recommends having that conversation with your child well before they turn 18. The account will be theirs, and so will the decision of what to do with it. It’s designed to stay invested for decades, not to be cashed out early.Currently, there is uncertainty about whether the account will be treated as a student-owned asset and whether it will affect college financial aid eligibility.529 PlansWhile these accounts have some flexibility, they are most effective when education is the expected outcome. The account owner retains control, and beneficiaries can often be changed to another qualifying family member if the original beneficiary doesn’t pursue higher education or doesn’t fully utilize the funds. Some states offer a tax deduction even if you contribute to a 529 and withdraw the money right away for qualified K-12 expenses. That can make a 529 useful for current school costs, not just future ones.If you don’t end up using all the money, you can keep it for your child’s future education, transfer it to another family member, or in some cases roll it into a Roth IRA for your child. Taking money out for non-education purposes may trigger taxes and a penalty.For financial aid purposes, 529 plans are typically treated as parent-owned assets, which may reduce their impact on aid eligibility compared with accounts in a child’s name.529 plans allow superfunding — contributing up to five years’ worth of annual gift-tax exclusions at once. That can give savings more time to potentially grow before education expenses arise.Roth IRAsThis account is owned by the child from the start, so there’s no shift in control over time. The long-term advantage is tax-free growth, meaning your child won’t owe taxes on gains when they withdraw the money later, as long as they follow the rules. Qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free, though early withdrawals may trigger taxes and penalties. Contributions require earned income, which limits access for younger children.“Because of the rather inflexible rules regarding Roths and earned income, most people are not in the position to take advantage of them for young children,” Petix said.Roth IRA balances aren’t counted as assets on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, untaxed IRA distributions are included in the financial information used to determine aid eligibility, so withdrawals can affect future financial aid awards.Custodial AccountsManaged by an adult while the child is a minor, these accounts can be used for a wide range of expenses as long as the spending benefits the child. Once the child reaches the age of termination, they take full control of the account and can use the money for any purpose. That shift in control is the main tradeoff.Because the assets are in the child’s name, they’re typically assessed at a higher rate in federal aid calculations than parent-owned accounts, which can reduce eligibility.FAQWhat if my child doesn’t qualify for the Trump Account pilot seed money?The $1,000 seed is a bonus, but it isn’t the point. The account can still be worth opening. You have the flexibility of contributing up to $5,000 every year to it to maximize the compounding.Can grandparents and others contribute to a child’s accounts?Yes. Grandparents, parents, employers, and others can all contribute, but the rules vary.Trump Accounts: Contributions are capped at $5,000 per year per child, and the child can have only one account.529 plans: Grandparents can contribute to a parent-owned plan or open their own account for the same child.Custodial accounts (UGMA/UTMA): Anyone can contribute. The assets belong to the child and are managed by a custodian until the age of termination.Should I prioritize college or retirement for my child?It depends on your family’s circumstances. If education funding is still a goal, the 529’s tax-free growth on qualified expenses may come first because the money can grow tax-free when used for eligible education costs. If you already have a 529 for education goals, Trump Accounts add a separate way to start long-term retirement investing without requiring earned income.What if I don’t know whether my child will go to college?If college isn’t a certainty, flexibility matters more than tax efficiency. A 529 plan is purpose-built for education, and that’s both its strength and its limitation. If your child ends up not going to college, you can redirect the funds to another qualifying family member, but your options are narrower.“If flexibility is one of your primary objectives, then maybe a 529 isn’t the right fit,” Petix said. A trust, by contrast, can be structured to fund education, help buy a house, start a business, or make other kinds of distributions, essentially whatever the trust documents allow. “Trusts are bespoke,” he said. “You can tailor them to pretty much what you want.” The trade-off is that trusts don’t carry the same tax advantages as a 529.If you have a strong expectation of college but want a parallel vehicle for other goals, combining accounts is a reasonable approach. On the other hand, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act expanded the opportunity to use 529 funds for vocational and other professional expenses.What if my child earns money from a job or business?Earned income opens the door to a Roth IRA. Practically speaking, babysitting, lawn mowing, a part-time job, or any legitimate self-employment counts. A child can contribute up to the IRS annual limit (or their total earned income, whichever is less), and contributions are after-tax, meaning that growth and withdrawals are tax-free.What if I want the child to be able to use the money for a car, house, business, or other need?In those cases, families often look beyond these account types to more flexible options like trusts, which can be structured around specific milestones or broader financial goals.This story was produced by Wells Fargo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What's really in America's lunchboxes, according to Instacart data What's really in America's lunchboxes, according to Instacart dataWith back-to-school season quickly approaching, Instacart shares its data on what products and categories are seeing an uptick.The Back-to-School Snack SurgeGoing back to school doesn't just change the daily routine; it also changes what's in peoples’ carts. Here's what Instacart purchase data reveals about how families stock up on food and snacks when school returns.Each year, the same pattern emerges: Snack and lunch staples dip over summer break, then climb sharply starting in late July as back-to-school season kicks in.Below are the top 10 back-to-school food categories Instacart tracked, ranked by how much they climb from summer into the school year. Instacart Variety pack snacks lead by a mile — up 41% versus the yearly average — followed by snack bites (+28%), and cereal bars (+20%). The pattern makes sense: These are the grab-and-go formats that fit neatly into a lunchbox or a backpack pocket.Sunflower butter (+18%) is a standout for its niche status, likely driven by nut-free school policies.Snack packs (+17%), yogurt tubes and pouches (+17%), gummy fruit snacks (+15%), and pudding snacks (+15%) all clock double-digit gains.First Bell, First Bowl: What's Trending in the Breakfast Cereal AisleConvenience is everything when it comes to the start of the school season, and at breakfast, cereal is still king — with orders containing cereal maintaining a steady drumbeat into the school year.It's a two-cereal race at the topCinnamon Toast Crunch and Honey Nut Cheerios are neck and neck for the top spot in the nation, each claiming over 8% of all cereal orders, which is one in six boxes when combined.Coming in just behind them: Frosted Flakes (5.1%), Cheerios (4.4%), Fruity Pebbles (4.0%), Lucky Charms (3.9%), Honey Bunches of Oats (3.7%), and Froot Loops (3.5%). Instacart Protein and better-for-you cereal is on the riseThe top-growing brands year over year were better-for-you brands like Farm Girl (+9,159%), The Real Cereal Co. (+304%), and Cheerios Protein (+123%). It's part of a broader shift playing out across the grocery store: Consumers are increasingly reaching for products that pull more nutritional weight, including higher protein, less refined sugar, and cleaner ingredient lists. And with GLP-1 usage on the rise and American diets shifting fast, the appetite for high-protein, nutrient-dense options isn't going anywhere. Instacart By popularity, three brands win the continent. Local quirks tell their own storyAsk which cereal is most popular in every state, and the map is strikingly tidy: Honey Nut Cheerios tops 32 states, Cinnamon Toast Crunch claims 19 across the South and lower Midwest, and Cheerios (plain) sweeps all of Canada. Instacart However, when you ask what each state buys far more of than the country overall, the map breaks out into 16 regional favorites. Suddenly you see Fruity Pebbles and Honey Bunches of Oats over-indexing in clusters, Krave and Reese's Puffs popping up as local obsessions, and value brand Mom's Best punching well above its national weight in a handful of states. Instacart This story was produced by Instacart and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Des Moines man charged after driving off with missing Davenport children Ray L. Eckholm of Des Moines faces charges after police say he took missing Davenport children on a reckless interstate ride before crashing.
	Giannoulias becomes 2nd statewide officeholder running for Chicago mayor Alexi Giannoulias is joining a crowded field of candidates hoping to unseat incumbent Mayor Brandon Johnson, who has not said yet if he is a candidate for reelection.
	How much does assisted living cost? A state-by-state guide How much does assisted living cost? A state-by-state guideThe national average cost of assisted living is $5,830 per month, but what families actually pay depends on location, apartment size, and care needs. Some communities charge one all-inclusive monthly rate, while others use tiered or a la carte pricing that adjusts as needs change. Understanding how assisted living costs are structured helps caregivers compare options, plan, and weigh overall value, not just price, when choosing the right community for a loved one. Below, A Place for Mom shares what you need to know about the costs of assisted living.Key TakeawaysAssisted living costs typically range from about $4,000 to nearly $8,000 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, depending on the state, apartment size, and level of care required.Pricing models vary by community, with assisted living costs offered as all-inclusive, tiered, or a la carte monthly fees.Care needs and apartment size drive assisted living costs more than amenities, making personal support needs a key pricing factor.Understanding assisted living cost details upfront helps caregivers compare value and avoid surprises as a loved one’s needs change.Monthly assisted living costs by stateDepending on the state, the average cost of assisted living ranges from about $4,000 to almost $8,000 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.Location greatly affects price because regulations and the cost of living vary considerably throughout the country. A community located in a large metropolitan area, near a desirable destination, or in an area with a higher cost of living is often more expensive. This is especially true in states that have many luxury assisted living communities, such as New York.The table below lists the average monthly cost of assisted living in each state. A Place for Mom The most and least expensive states for assisted livingAssisted living costs vary significantly across the U.S. due to factors such as availability and differences in the cost of living. Prices for assisted living are highest in Washington, D.C., and lowest in Alabama.See the 10 most expensive and 10 least expensive states for assisted living in the graphics below. A Place for Mom A Place for Mom What’s included in the cost of assisted living?Typically, the base fee and other up-front costs of assisted living include the following:Housing (rent and utilities)Three nutritious meals a day, plus snacksHelp with activities of daily living (ADLs)Housekeeping and landscaping services (to reduce household responsibilities)Programming and activitiesCare coordinationTransportation to medical appointmentsAssisted living costs for couplesIt’s common for an assisted living community to add a second-person fee to the bill for couples who live in the same assisted living apartment. The national median cost of this fee in assisted living is about $1,200 per month, per A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. Beyond the second-person fee, your loved ones may be charged differently depending on their individual health issues and assistance needs.If your loved ones are planning to live together in assisted living, it’s a good idea to ask prospective communities how they approach fees for couples and whether they offer a couple’s discount.Assisted living pricing modelsWhile some assisted living communities charge a flat, all-inclusive fee, others use an a la carte or tiered approach.All-inclusiveIn these communities, the monthly fee includes room and board, care services, and all other services and amenities. Costs don’t change if a resident’s needs change over time — as long as the community offers the level of care they need.A la carteThese communities charge a base fee and add or remove services as residents’ needs change. For example, if your loved one temporarily needs extra assistance with eating or bathing because of an illness or injury, their costs will be higher during that time. Common add-on services include:Medication assistancePhysical or occupational therapy (provided by a third party)Beauty shop or other personal grooming servicesParkingPet rentInternetLaundrySome transportationTieredThese communities offer different levels of care at different price points. For example, a lower tier might include help with three ADLs, while a higher tier may support help with five or more ADLs. This approach offers predictable costs while also enabling residents to receive a higher level of care without moving.Cost transparency in assisted livingMost states require assisted living communities to provide prospective residents with written disclosure of their fees, services, and residency agreement before admission or upon admission to the community, although the specific requirements vary by state.“Families are sometimes surprised by charges they weren’t expecting,” says A Place for Mom’s Niki Gewirtz, who has more than 20 years of experience in the senior living industry. “It’s important to understand your loved one’s assistance needs and that they can change over time.” Someone who didn’t need much help in the beginning may get injured and need more help for a short period of time. “The community will charge more for providing more assistance during that period. But the fees weren’t hidden,” says Gewirtz.Questions to ask about the cost of assisted livingTo avoid being surprised by changing fees, ask about a community’s pricing model up front and have a good understanding of your loved one’s assistance needs.“There are two basic factors that dictate what an assisted living community will cost,” says Gewirtz. “The apartment itself — whether it’s a studio or a two-bedroom — and the additional care fees. It’s not uncommon for families to underestimate how much assistance their loved one requires, whether it’s help with medication, showering, or remembering to eat.”Gewirtz explains, “A nurse in an assisted living community will typically do an assessment when a resident moves in and again about 30 days after move-in. That’s what determines the level of assistance someone needs.”Ask the following questions to learn more about how a prospective assisted living community approaches pricing:How much does assisted living cost per month?Is this cost all-inclusive?If the cost isn’t all-inclusive, what’s included in the base rate?Are there a la carte options to add to the base rate? How much does each of these options cost?Are there pricing tiers for different levels of care?Is there a move-in fee or community fee? If so, how much is it? Is it due all at once, or can we pay for it over time?Does the cost increase annually?How much does pricing vary by floor plan?What happens if my loved one’s care needs change and they need to move to a higher level of care?What happens if our family can no longer pay?How does the cost of assisted living compare to other types of senior living and care?According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary cost data, the nationwide average monthly cost of assisted living is about 65% more than the cost of independent living and is less expensive than memory care or a nursing home.Expect costs to rise incrementally, says Gewirtz. “The cost of assisted living has been going up about 5% per year,” she explains. A Place for Mom Note: Memory care, assisted living, and independent living costs are A Place for Mom national averages. Nursing home costs are national median estimates from CareScout.What payment options exist for assisted living?Families often pay for assisted living using a combination of options that may include:Long-term care insuranceMedicaidVeterans benefitsPrivate pay (income, savings, retirement accounts, etc.)Selling a homeFinding affordable options for assisted livingFinding the most appropriate and affordable assisted living community can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The first step is to understand your loved one’s current expenses. Checking an online senior living cost calculator can help families easily itemize those expenses and compare them to the cost of a single monthly payment in an assisted living community.Once you have a clear picture of what your loved one is spending today, consider talking with someone who can provide experienced insight about the benefits of assisted living and communities in your area. At an average monthly cost of $5,830, one year in an assisted living community costs about $69,960. That’s a significant investment, and you and your loved one deserve to feel confident about the community you choose.FAQsHow much do people spend on assisted living in total?The median length of stay at an assisted living community is 22 months, according to the National Center for Assisted Living. At $5,830 per month, that’s a total of $128,260.What’s the move-in fee in assisted living?The move-in fee, also referred to as the community fee, is a one-time charge similar to a rental deposit for an apartment or house. The national median move-in or community fee for assisted living is about $3,000, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.This story was produced by A Place for Mom and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to plan a stress-free college dorm move-in (2026 checklist) How to plan a stress-free college dorm move-in (2026 checklist)The smoothest college dorm move-ins come down to three things: arriving during your assigned time slot, packing less than you think you need, and having a plan to get everything upstairs fast. It's a rite of passage at scale — about 1.9 million recent high school graduates head straight to college each fall (62% of the class, according to the National Center for Education Statistics), and move-in is the first big logistical test for many of them. It's also an expensive day: The National Retail Federation reported that families planned to spend an average of $1,325.85 on back-to-college shopping in 2025. With that much money, emotion, and cardboard riding on a single afternoon, a little planning goes a long way.Timing also matters, sometimes just as much as money. August is the single busiest month of the year for student and dorm moves, according to 2023-2025 data from the on-demand moving platform Lugg, accounting for roughly one in four to one in three of them. So move-in day means competing for elevators, parking, and movers with everyone else who picked the same day.This guide from Lugg covers exactly when to arrive, what to bring and what to skip, how to move it all in without a backache, and how to keep the day calm, for both students and parents alike. Lugg Start by reading your housing assignment closelyBefore buying or packing anything, read your housing assignment and move-in instructions in full. Most colleges assign each student a specific move-in date and time window to stagger traffic, and many tell you exactly what's already in the room, which is typically a bed frame, mattress, and a desk.Knowing what's provided keeps you from hauling furniture you don't need. The notice also usually lists prohibited items, which vary by school but commonly include candles, halogen lamps, space heaters, hot plates, and extension cords without surge protection. Bringing banned gear only to have it confiscated at the door is a classic move-in day frustration.Two numbers are worth writing down before you shop: the mattress size (almost always twin XL) and the room's rough dimensions. A tape measure and your room layout will save you from a too-big futon or a rug that doesn't fit.Pack for a dorm, not a houseThe single most common move-in mistake is overpacking. A dorm room is a small, shared space with little storage room available. The goal should be to bring what you'll use in the first few weeks, not everything you might want all year. You can always ship stuff later, or pick up more items during winter break.A realistic dorm essentials list looks like this:Bedding: twin XL sheets, a comforter, a mattress topper, and two pillowsBath: a towel set, a shower caddy, and shower shoes for shared bathroomsStorage: under-bed bins, a few collapsible cubes, and slim hangersTech: laptop, chargers, a power strip with surge protection, and an extension cord if allowedDaily life: a small first-aid kit, basic cleaning wipes, a laundry hamper, and detergentComfort: a desk lamp, a small fan, and a few photos or postersAnd the things to leave at home: a printer (the library has one), out-of-season clothing, bulky furniture before you've seen the room, and most kitchen gear beyond a mug and a water bottle. If you're unsure about an item, leave it.Coordinate with your roommate before you buy anythingThe mini-fridge is the signature dorm purchase, but message your roommate before move-in to coordinate the big shared items. The other obvious things to divide are a microwave, a rug, and any shared electronics like a TV or a small speaker.A five-minute conversation also sets early expectations on the less glamorous stuff: who's bringing cleaning supplies, how you'll handle the trash, and whether you want a shared or separate setup.Plan how you'll actually get everything upstairsThe part most families underestimate is the physical move itself: carrying everything from a far-off parking lot, up crowded stairs or a single slow elevator, into a room down the hall on the fourth floor.A few strategies that make a real difference:Pack in stackable bins, labeled boxes, or reusable storage bags that load and carry far more efficiently.Bring or rent a folding hand cart. Many dorms loan a limited number of carts on move-in day, and they go fast, so having your own can make all the difference.Lift smart. For any heavy, bulky, or oversized items, ensure two people are lifting. There’s nothing worse than a pulled back in the middle of move-in day.Consider hiring help. For families flying in, arriving without a vehicle, or facing a walk-up with no elevator, hiring professional movers or labor-only movers, even for a short time, can turn an all-day ordeal into just a couple of hours. On-demand and same-day moving services have made this far easier to book last-minute than it used to be.If you're moving a student out of one dorm and into another, the same rules apply in reverse, and an empty room inspection usually has a hard deadline, so build in buffer time.Time your arrival to beat the crowd and the heatArrive at the very start of your assigned window rather than the middle of the day. The first hour of a move-in slot is almost always calmer than the midday rush, when elevators back up and the closest parking disappears.Move-in lands squarely in the summer moving rush, and student moves cluster even tighter, with August alone accounting for about a quarter to a third of all student and dorm moves, per the Lugg data. Late-August move-in days can also be brutally hot, so pack a cooler with water, wear breathable clothes, and take breaks. Heat exhaustion is a real and avoidable way to ruin day one.For parents: what actually helps (and what doesn't)The most useful thing a parent can do on move-in day is handle logistics so the student can focus on the room and the new people in it. That means driving, navigating parking, managing the cart runs, and keeping everyone fed and hydrated. It’s the invisible labor that keeps the day moving smoothly.Research on the college transition links over-involved “helicopter” parenting to a harder first semester: A 2024 study in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that controlling parenting frustrated students' sense of competence and autonomy, which in turn weakened their academic and social adjustment. On move-in day, resist the urge to deep-clean or fully unpack the room yourself, and let your student problem-solve the small stuff. Students settle in faster when the space — and the decisions — already feel like theirs.Student-affairs staff often describe the parent's job as shifting from director to consultant: available when genuinely needed, not running the show. The most useful prep happens before the car is even packed: making sure your student can do their own laundry, book a doctor's appointment, manage a debit card, and refill a prescription. Those everyday skills do more for a smooth first month than anything you can carry up the stairs.Plan the goodbye, too. Drawn-out departures can tend to be harder than short, warm ones. Homesickness is normal and usually temporary — a longitudinal study in the journal Emotion found it's common among first-year students and tends to ease over the first semester, though those with more intense homesickness had a tougher overall adjustment. Steady but not constant contact — a regular weekly call rather than all-day texting — gives a new student room to build a life on campus. Many student-life offices schedule a first-day event right after move-in, precisely as a cue for families to head out. Say what you want to say, then let them step into their new chapter.Don't forget about move-outThe smartest move-in planning also looks ahead to move-out, because spring departure is its own scramble. It’s happening during finals, on a tight deadline, with a room inspection at the end. If the student is staying in the area, a small storage unit over the summer can be cheaper and far less stressful than hauling everything home and back. Booking movers or storage early in the spring beats the end-of-semester rush, when both are in highest demand.What move-in day really comes down toA good dorm move-in isn't about the perfect setup or the fullest carload. It comes down to three things: arriving on time, bringing what you'll actually use, and having a plan to get it all upstairs. Read your housing assignment, pack light, coordinate with your roommate, and aim for the calm start of your window. Do that, and the hardest part of the day will just be the goodbye.This story was produced by Lugg and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	Roth and traditional IRA contribution limits for 2026 Roth and traditional IRA contribution limits for 2026When you first start saving for retirement, you need to decide where to keep your funds, along with the rules and limits of that account. For individual retirement accounts (IRAs), you can choose from traditional and Roth account types. Each has specific contribution limits, income limits and tax rules. Below, Ally Financial outlines what you need to know.What are IRA contribution limits?Because IRAs are a tax-advantaged account, the government sets limits on the amount you can contribute each year. Income and deduction limits also change annually due to inflation and new legislation passed by Congress.The difference between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRAYour money grows tax-deferred with a traditional IRA, which means you pay taxes on it when you withdraw money during retirement. On the other hand, you contribute after-tax earned income with a Roth IRA, which means it grows tax-free.Which one should you choose?Generally, you could choose a traditional IRA if you:Want a tax break nowBelieve you’ll be in a lower tax bracket in retirementYou should choose a Roth IRA if you:Want tax-free income in retirementBelieve you’ll be in a higher tax bracket in retirementWant the flexibility to withdraw contributions before retirement without penaltyYou should consider both accounts if you can afford to, as this can provide tax diversification in retirement.Roth IRA vs. traditional IRA contribution limits for 2026Stay on top of the following current IRA contribution, income and age limits, so you can take full advantage of your IRA without being penalized for contributing too much. Make sure you’re aware of potential IRA missteps that could impact your retirement savings. Ally Financial Note: You can contribute to both Roth and traditional IRAs, but total combined contributions can’t exceed these limits.Income limits for Roth IRA vs. traditional IRAWith a traditional IRA, income limits determine whether you can deduct your traditional IRA contributions. If you or your spouse has a retirement plan through an employer, your ability to deduct might change. If you have a Roth IRA, your contribution will not be deductible — but income limits do determine your maximum annual contribution.The charts below will help you figure out where you stand. You’ll need two pieces of information: your filing status and your modified adjusted gross income (which you can figure out using the instructions provided in IRS Publication 590-A).Roth IRA income limits for 2026 contributionsThe most common IRA contribution guidelines — based on adjusted gross income (AGI) — for 2026 include: Ally Financial Traditional IRA deduction limits for 2026With a traditional IRA, the income limits below are only applicable if you are covered by a workplace retirement plan. The limit is based on modified adjusted gross income after considering certain allowable deductions and tax penalties. Ally Financial Note: Traditional IRA contributions may be fully or partially deductible depending on your income and workplace retirement plan coverage.What happens if I contribute too much to my IRA?If you exceed the limit, you typically have until the filing deadline to fix the mistake (or Oct. 15 if you’re filing an extension). You can contact your plan administrator to help file the appropriate paperwork and remove the excess contribution. For every year the excess amount stays in your account, you’ll have to pay a 6% penalty on the overcontribution.How to maximize your IRA contributionsGet the most out of your retirement savings by taking strategic steps to help optimize tax advantages and long-term growth.1. Contribute earlySetting aside money in your IRA earlier in the year — rather than waiting until April of the following year to make a prior-year contribution — can allow your money to compound, which can add up over time.2. Diversify tax advantagesTraditional and Roth IRAs offer different tax advantages, so having both types of accounts can diversify the benefits you receive.3. Review and adjustEnsure your IRA aligns with your financial goals, risk tolerance and income by regularly reviewing and adjusting your contributions each year.4. Get ahead on your contributionsKnowing the limits of any account is important as you work toward being well-prepared for retirement. Whether you choose a traditional or Roth IRA, opening a tax-advantaged retirement account is a smart step to getting serious about saving for those golden years.Prepare for 2026 IRA contribution limitsThe 2026 IRA contribution limit is $7,500, or $8,600 if you're age 50 or older. This cap applies across all your IRAs combined and must be met by April 15, 2026. Be aware that income limits may affect your eligibility for Roth contributions or traditional IRA deductions, and exceeding the limit triggers a 6% annual penalty.This story was produced by Ally Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Virtual cards for AI agents: How they work and what to look for Virtual cards for AI agents: How they work and what to look forAI agents have moved beyond simply researching products for your business to buying them for you. Whether it's cloud storage, renewing a SaaS license, paying a vendor, or ordering coffee for the office, autonomous software increasingly needs a way to pay. Virtual cards for AI agents make that possible.These programmable payment credentials give agents the ability to transact independently within guardrails you define. They combine the flexibility of virtual cards with the control and auditability that finance teams require. And with network-level standards like Visa Intelligent Commerce now live, this infrastructure is available today.This guide from Ramp breaks down how agent cards work, the controls that keep spend in check, the security architecture behind them, and what to look for when choosing a provider.What is a virtual card for AI agents?A virtual card for AI agents is a programmable payment credential built specifically for autonomous agents to make purchases.Instead of giving an agent your corporate card number, you issue a scoped, revokable virtual card configured for that agent's specific task. The agent only gets the access it needs: a card number with defined spend limits, merchant restrictions, and an expiration window. If something goes wrong, you can revoke the credential instantly without affecting any other payment methods on file.Think of it as giving your agent a company card with preset rules that are enforced automatically, not by a human reviewing expense reports after the fact.How does it differ from traditional virtual cards?Traditional virtual cards are designed for people. You generate one in a dashboard, copy the number, and use it for an online purchase. Virtual cards for agents are designed for machines. Ramp The key differences come down to programmability and autonomy. Agent cards expose granular controls through APIs or CLI servers, integrate with orchestration layers like Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers, and operate without a human in the loop. They enable fully agentic commerce with autonomous policy evaluation, real-time decisioning, and telemetry built for machine-driven workflows.How virtual cards for agents work under the hoodAgent cards have a predictable lifecycle: The agent requests a credential, receives transaction-scoped card details, executes a transaction with real-time authorization checks, and the card network posts settled charges to your funding account, complete with metadata for reconciliation.Here's what each stage looks like:1. Agent requests a card via API or MCPThe process starts when an agent needs to make a payment. It calls the card issuer's API or invokes an MCP server to mint a virtual card.The request includes policy parameters like spend limits, allowed merchant category codes (MCCs), and expiration rules. The issuer's service validates the request against your organization's policies and returns tokenized credentials that the agent can use at checkout.MCP is worth noting here because it's becoming the standard way AI agents interact with external tools. Instead of building custom integrations for every payment provider, an agent using MCP can call a standardized card-issuance tool the same way it calls any other service.2. Payment authorization and real-time limitsWhen the agent uses the card at checkout, the transaction hits the card network and issuer for authorization. Multiple checks happen in milliseconds:Spend caps: Is this transaction within the card's per-transaction or cumulative limit?Merchant category rules: Is this merchant on the approved MCC list?Velocity limits: Has the agent exceeded a defined number of transactions in a given time window?Geofencing: Is the merchant in an approved region?If any check fails, the transaction is auto-declined. Anomaly detectors can also trigger step-up verification or immediately revoke the card if something looks off, like a sudden burst of rapid-fire purchases.3. Transaction settlement and postingApproved transactions settle through the card network just like any other card payment. Funds are debited from your selected funding source (a bank account, credit line, or prepaid balance).Depending on your agent card issuing platform, you'll see each line item with tags for cost centers, GL accounts, and the specific agent ID that initiated the purchase. This metadata is what makes account reconciliation possible at scale without manual intervention.Key spending controls that keep agents in checkGiving an AI agent a payment method without guardrails is a recipe for trouble. Agent cards expose fine-grained controls that limit your exposure, enforce budgets, and prevent unauthorized purchases before they happen.Scoped transactions and spend limitsDepending on your issuer, the agent's virtual card may be scoped to just a single transaction. This eliminates any risk of error or overspending; the agent knows exactly what it's allowed to buy, from whom, and for how much. Any other attempted transaction will be blocked at the network level.Some issuers may allow you to set a per-transaction spend limit on any one authorization. If an agent tries to make a purchase above the threshold, the transaction is automatically declined. These controls represent your first line of defense against costly mistakes, whether it's a bug, a misconfigured workflow, or an unexpected price change from a vendor.Merchant category blockingMCC-based policies restrict where an agent can spend. You define an allowlist of approved merchant categories or specific vendors, and any purchase outside that list gets blocked.This prevents off-policy purchases like gift cards, consumer marketplaces, or expense categories that have no business showing up in your agent's workflow. It's a simple control, but it eliminates entire classes of misuse.Time-bound expirationCards can auto-deactivate after a defined window. You set the expiration based on the task, whether you expect it to complete in minutes, hours, days, or months.A card issued for a one-time purchase of office supplies might expire in an hour; a card for a monthly SaaS subscription might last a year. Time-bound expiration reduces the risk from stored credentials and forgotten recurring tasks that could otherwise keep spending indefinitely.Security features and tokenizationAgent cards rely on a defense-in-depth strategy that spans tokenization, encryption, and scoped identity controls. The goal is to keep raw card data and your accounts safe, even if one layer is compromised.Tokenization flowWhen a virtual card is issued, the primary account number (PAN) is replaced with a non-reversible token. This token is mapped securely by the issuer or card network, and only they can resolve it back to the real number.Tokens are scoped to a specific merchant or domain. If a token leaks, it's useless outside its original context. An attacker can't take a token from one merchant and use it at another.AES-256 encryption standardsCard data at rest and in transit is protected with AES-256 encryption and TLS 1.2 or higher. Encryption keys are rotated on schedule and stored in hardware security modules (HSMs) with strict access controls.Every access event is logged for audit purposes. This isn't optional. It's the baseline for any provider handling card data in a PCI-compliant environment.API key scoping and agent identity verificationEach agent receives narrow-scoped API credentials tied to specific card policies. An agent authorized to issue cards for cloud storage can't suddenly start issuing cards for office supplies.Authentication relies on OAuth2 token-based authorization, and webhook signature verification ensures that only authenticated agents can request credentials or receive authorization events. This layered identity model means that even if one agent's credentials are compromised, the impact is contained.Top use cases driving adoption of virtual cards for AI agentsAI agents in finance need payment capabilities to close the loop on end-to-end automation. Without a way to pay, an agent can recommend an action but can't execute it. Here are the use cases where agent cards are already making an impact.Cloud resource auto-scalingInfrastructure agents add compute instances, storage, or bandwidth in real time to meet demand spikes. They pay per usage with preset caps, scaling resources up or down without waiting for you to approve a purchase order.Transaction-scoped credentials and velocity controls ensure the agent can't accidentally spin up a six-figure cloud bill overnight.Domain and SaaS subscriptionsAgents register domains, renew SSL certificates, and subscribe to APIs or developer tools on behalf of your team. Multi-use cards with recurring limits handle these ongoing charges cleanly.Because the card carries metadata identifying the agent and the project, your finance team can trace every subscription back to the workflow that initiated it.Autonomous procurement and APAP agents issue payments to approved vendors, pay for software licenses, and handle contract renewals, all within policy and without manual accounts payable intervention.This is where agent cards start to replace entire manual workflows. Instead of a traditional cycle that starts with a purchase request and goes through approval, PO creation, invoice processing, and finally payment, the agent handles the transaction in seconds, with every control enforced programmatically.How to evaluate virtual card providers for AI agentsNot all virtual card platforms are built for agentic workflows. The right provider depends on your control requirements, integration complexity, reconciliation needs, and compliance posture.API maturity and MCP supportStart with the API. Does the provider expose card issuance, lifecycle management, and event webhooks through well-documented, production-ready APIs? Can you programmatically create, modify, freeze, and revoke cards?MCP server support is increasingly important as agent orchestration frameworks standardize around it. A provider with MCP compatibility reduces the integration burden for your engineering team.Programmatic controls and policy automationLook for controls you can set programmatically, not just through a dashboard. The essentials include:Per-transaction credentialsPer-card spend limitsMCC allowlists and blocklistsVelocity rules (max transactions per window)Expiration controls (time-bound deactivation)Vendor-level restrictionsIf you have to log into a UI to adjust a policy, it's not built for agents.Reconciliation and ERP integrationEnterprise deployments need more than raw transaction data. You need transactions tagged with cost center, GL account, department, and other metadata.Look for native integrations with your ERP and accounting systems like NetSuite, QuickBooks, Sage, and Xero. The less manual mapping your finance team has to do, the faster you close the books.Network standards and complianceThe major card networks have launched infrastructure specifically for agentic commerce, and this matters more than most buyers realize:Visa Intelligent Commerce (VIC) provides network-level tokenized credentials with lifecycle management and developer-friendly APIs.Mastercard Agent Pay offers similar standards for autonomous payments with network-integrated policy controls.Providers built on these network standards offer deeper compliance and interoperability than proprietary issuance-only platforms. When you're evaluating providers, ask whether they're building on top of network infrastructure or around it.What to look for when evaluating providersEvery platform makes different trade-offs between control depth, developer experience, reconciliation features, and network standards. Match the evaluation criteria to your team's priorities. Ramp Integrating agent cards with engineering and finance workflowsLaunching virtual cards for agents is a shared responsibility across your engineering, security, and finance teams. It covers secure API integration, policy definition, ongoing observability, and risk mitigation.Sandbox testing for developersStart in a test environment. Use sandbox APIs with simulated authorizations and webhooks to validate your flows before going live.Test the full lifecycle: card creation, authorization, decline handling, expiration, and revocation. Validate error handling and rollback paths so your agents fail gracefully in production.Policy automation for controllersControllers should define the rules that govern agent spend. This includes:Budget limits per agent, project, or departmentApproved MCCs and vendor listsApproval workflows for spend above certain thresholdsLifecycle rules (auto-expire cards when a project closes)The best implementations auto-issue cards per project or agent, with lifecycle events tied directly to business expense policies. When a project wraps up, its cards deactivate automatically.Alerting and real-time monitoringSet up alerts for events that signal something's wrong:Rapid retries: An agent attempting the same purchase repeatedlyMCC drift: Transactions appearing in unexpected merchant categoriesVelocity spikes: A sudden surge in transaction volumeStream events to your SIEM, Slack, or monitoring tool for visibility. The faster you catch an issue, the smaller the impact.This story was produced by Ramp and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	USDA vs. FHA, VA and conventional loans USDA vs. FHA, VA and conventional loans When you’re buying a home, choosing the right loan can feel just as big as choosing the home itself. The loan you choose can shape how much money you need upfront, what your monthly payment looks like, where you’re able to buy, and how comfortable you feel moving forward.If you’re trying to keep upfront costs low, a USDA loan may be one helpful option to understand. USDA loans are designed for eligible buyers purchasing homes in approved rural and some suburban areas. They do not require a down payment, and lenders typically look for a credit score of 640 or higher. USDA loans also include income limits, which generally cap total household income at 115% of the area’s median household income. While USDA loans do not require private mortgage insurance, you will pay a one-time guarantee fee at closing and an annual fee that is added to your monthly payment.Because USDA loans come with specific location and income rules, they are not the right fit for every buyer or every home. Comparing them with other common mortgage types can make the decision easier. The right fit depends on where you buy, how much you’ve saved, your credit, and what feels comfortable for your monthly budget, Neighbors Bank reports.USDA Loans vs. VA LoansVA loans are the other type of zero down payment mortgage and a great option for qualifying veterans and service members. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs backs these loans, which are known for their flexibility and excellent benefits. Here’s how they compare to USDA loans in particular:Eligibility and Property RulesUSDA loans are limited to eligible rural and suburban areas. VA loans do not have location restrictions, but they do require eligible military service. Both programs require the home be your primary residence and are not meant for vacation or investment properties.Down Payment and CreditBoth USDA and VA loans offer 0% down payment options. Credit requirements can vary by lender, but VA loans are often known for flexible underwriting.Income and Loan LimitsVA loans do not have income caps like USDA loans. Your income can be as high as you qualify for, as long as the payment fits comfortably within your overall financial picture.For eligible borrowers with full VA entitlement, there’s no official loan limit (like with FHA and conventional loans) — meaning you aren’t capped by a set maximum loan amount. However, lenders still review your income, credit, and repayment ability when determining how much you can borrow.Mortgage Insurance and CostsVA loans don’t require monthly mortgage insurance. Instead, they include a one-time VA funding fee, which helps keep the program running for future Veterans.The funding fee typically ranges from about 1.25% to 3.3% of the loan amount, depending on factors like your down payment, whether it’s your first time using a VA loan, and your service history.Many buyers choose to roll this fee into the loan rather than pay it up front.USDA vs. VA: Which is better?If you’re eligible for a VA loan, it often provides more flexibility, especially since there are no location or income restrictions and no monthly mortgage insurance. For many eligible service members and Veterans, VA loans can offer lower overall costs.However, if you don’t qualify for VA benefits, USDA can still provide a powerful zero-down payment option in eligible areas.USDA Loans vs. FHA LoansFHA loans are a common home loan choice, especially among first-time buyers, because they offer more leniency toward lower credit scores and higher debt amounts and require a low down payment of only 3.5%. If USDA loans aren’t an option due to location or income limits, FHA loans are a strong choice. There are also many FHA down payment assistance options available.Eligibility and Property RulesUSDA loans require the home to be in an eligible rural or suburban area, and it must be your primary residence. FHA loans do not have location restrictions, and they allow more flexibility for purchasing different property types, including certain multi-family homes. However, you’ll still need to live in the home as your primary residence for at least the first year.Down Payment and CreditUSDA loans require no down payment, while FHA loans require at least 3.5% down if your credit score is 580 or higher. Though FHA rules allow lower credit scores, many individual lenders set their own minimum standards.Income and Loan LimitsFHA loans don’t place caps on how much you earn, which can make them a better fit if your household income exceeds USDA limits.However, FHA loans do have loan limits. These limits vary by county and are based on local home prices. In higher-cost areas, the limit is higher. In more affordable areas, the limit is lower.If the home you’re buying costs more than the FHA limit in your area, you may need to consider a conventional loan instead.Mortgage Insurance and CostsFHA loans require two types of mortgage insurance:An upfront premium of 1.75% of the loan amount (often rolled into the loan), andAn annual premium that typically ranges from 0.45% to 1.05% per year, divided into monthly payments.In many cases, FHA mortgage insurance lasts for the life of the loan unless you refinance into a different loan type later.USDA loan upfront and annual fees are less expensive than FHA mortgage insurance, but the annual fee also lasts the life of the loan.USDA vs. FHA: Which is better?If the home you want is in a USDA-eligible area and your income falls within the limits, USDA may offer a lower-cost path to homeownership. If location flexibility or higher income make USDA unavailable, FHA can provide a strong alternative.USDA Loans vs. Conventional LoansConventional loans are the most popular loan type for their flexibility. Unlike other mortgage types, a government agency does not back conventional loans. Conventional loans cover a wide range of home loans, but generally refer to any home loan that is privately funded and follows guidelines set by government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.Eligibility and Property RulesUSDA loans restrict location and require the home to be your primary residence. Conventional loans do not have location restrictions and may be used for primary homes, second homes, or investment properties.Down Payment and CreditUSDA loans require no down payment. Conventional loans typically require at least 3% to 5% down, depending on the program. Programs that require 3% down include:HomeReadyHomeOneHome PossibleHowever, these programs have additional income and first-time homebuyer status requirements.Conventional loans generally require a minimum credit score around 620, though stronger credit often leads to better terms.Income and Loan LimitsUSDA loans have household income caps. Most conventional loans do not limit how much you earn, but certain programs designed for moderate-income buyers do include income restrictions.Conventional loans also follow loan limits set each year by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These limits vary by county and tend to be higher in more expensive housing markets.If the home price exceeds the local conventional loan limit, you may need a jumbo loan, which comes with different qualification requirements.Mortgage Insurance and CostsIf your down payment is less than 20% on a conventional loan, you’ll typically pay private mortgage insurance (PMI).PMI usually costs about 0.2% to 2% of the loan amount per year, depending on your credit score, down payment, and loan details. The stronger your credit and the larger your down payment, the lower your PMI tends to be.The good news is that PMI isn’t permanent. It’s automatically removed once you reach 22% equity in your home, and you can request removal once you reach 20%, as long as you meet lender guidelines.USDA vs. Conventional: Which is better?Conventional loans offer flexibility and may provide long-term savings for buyers with stronger credit or larger down payments.USDA loans, on the other hand, can make homeownership possible with no down payment if the home and your income meet program guidelines.Ultimately, the right home loan depends on your goals, where you’re buying, and what your finances look like today.This story was produced by Neighbors Bank and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Which artists are building momentum beyond Spotify? Which artists are building momentum beyond Spotify?A new artist rarely breaks in one place only. A song may start gaining traction on Spotify, then appear in more playlists, draw more YouTube activity, or begin showing up in radio rotation. Sometimes those signals move together. Other times, one metric rises while the rest stay flat.That distinction matters because a single number can make momentum look broader than it is. Monthly listeners can jump after a playlist placement, a viral clip, or renewed interest in one song. But if video activity, playlist exposure, and radio do not move in the same direction, the growth may be more concentrated than it first appears.This analysis from Viberate looks for the less common pattern: artists whose recent growth spread across several measurable music channels at the same time.3 artists gained across all 4 channelsFor Spotify to qualify, an artist needed stronger growth in monthly listeners, followers, and streams during the recent period. YouTube required increases in both views and subscribers. Playlist exposure was assessed through playlist reach and the number of active Spotify playlists featuring the artist. Radio was measured through airplay spins.Gat Putch, Kidd Carder, and Wyatt Flores met every requirement.Gat PutchPhilippine hip-hop artist Gat Putch ended the study period with about 4.1 million Spotify monthly listeners.The artist added roughly 590,000 monthly listeners during the earlier 90-day period. That increase grew to approximately 2.6 million during the recent period.Gat Putch generated about 48 million Spotify streams during the earlier window and nearly 72 million during the second. YouTube views rose from approximately 6 million to almost 16 million, while subscriber additions more than tripled.Playlist exposure showed one of the clearest changes. Gat Putch’s Spotify playlist reach increased only modestly during the previous period but expanded by more than 10 million during the recent one. Growth in active Spotify playlists rose from fewer than 50 to more than 150.Radio activity increased at a slower pace, from about 360 spins to just over 500.The increases were distributed across the study period. No single week accounted for more than 60% of the positive movement in any qualifying indicator.Kidd CarderNigerian artist Kidd Carder finished the period with approximately 2.2 million Spotify monthly listeners.Monthly listener growth rose from around 360,000 during the earlier period to nearly 1 million during the recent one.The artist generated about 16 million Spotify streams during the first period and more than 50 million during the second. YouTube views increased from approximately 1.7 million to 2.6 million, accompanied by faster subscriber growth.Kidd Carder’s playlist reach expanded by about 7 million during the recent period, compared with an increase of roughly half a million previously. Growth in active Spotify playlists rose from fewer than 70 to more than 260.Radio spins increased from approximately 380 to more than 630.Kidd Carder’s largest gains appeared in Spotify streams and playlist activity, but the artist also passed the study’s requirements for audience growth, YouTube, and radio.Wyatt FloresU.S. country artist Wyatt Flores ended the period with about 4.6 million Spotify monthly listeners.His monthly listener growth rose from approximately 440,000 during the earlier period to just over 1 million during the recent one. Spotify streams increased from about 49 million to 62 million.YouTube growth was considerably narrower. Views edged up from approximately 1.43 million to 1.45 million, while subscriber additions increased from about 2,400 to 2,700.Both measures remained above the study’s minimum activity requirements and passed the concentration check.Playlist exposure showed a more substantial change. Playlist-reach growth increased from about 1.1 million during the earlier period to more than 10 million during the recent one. Growth in active Spotify playlists rose from approximately 400 to nearly 600.Radio spins increased from roughly 2,800 to more than 4,500.Flores’ results show that cross-channel qualification did not require equally large gains everywhere. His YouTube improvement was limited compared with the changes on Spotify, playlists, and radio, but both selected video indicators still moved upward.7 more artists accelerated across 3 channelsAnother seven artists qualified across three of the four measured channel groups.They are presented as a cohort rather than ranked from fourth through 10th. The combination of qualifying channels differed by artist, making a precise overall order less informative than the breadth of each result. Viberate Serkan Nişancı and Bayaan gained across streaming, video, and radioTurkish pop artist Serkan Nişancı recorded some of the largest increases in the sample.His Spotify monthly listener growth rose from about 220,000 during the earlier period to more than 4 million during the recent one. Spotify streams increased from roughly 6 million generated during the first period to more than 71 million during the second.YouTube views rose from approximately 13 million to more than 93 million. Radio activity also increased, from just over 1,000 spins to about 3,000.Playlist exposure did not qualify because one week accounted for more than 60% of the positive recent-period playlist-reach movement.Pakistani rock band Bayaan also qualified across Spotify, YouTube, and radio.The group moved from losing roughly 370,000 Spotify monthly listeners during the earlier period to gaining more than 2.3 million during the recent one. Spotify streams increased from about 14 million to 23 million, while YouTube views rose from approximately 7.5 million to 11.7 million.YouTube subscriber additions grew from about 9,000 to 28,000. Radio spins also increased.Bayaan’s playlist reach was excluded for the same reason as Nişancı's: Most of the positive movement was concentrated in one week.Large weekly changes can reflect genuine breakout moments or major playlist placements. They may also result from data backfills, account relinking, or the addition or removal of data points. The analysis, therefore, favored movement that was distributed more broadly across the 90-day period.Four artists gained across Spotify, YouTube, and playlistsAksomaniac and Yapi passed the requirements for Spotify, YouTube, and playlist exposure, but usable historical radio data was unavailable.Missing data was treated as unavailable rather than interpreted as zero activity or declining performance.Elif Buse Doğan and BNYX qualified across the same three channels, while radio performance either slowed or remained below the study’s activity threshold.Doğan’s Spotify monthly listener trend shifted from a slight decline during the previous period to growth of nearly 2.4 million during the recent one. The Turkish pop artist generated about 9 million Spotify streams during the earlier period and almost 22 million during the second.Her YouTube views increased from approximately 23 million to 32 million. Playlist reach and active-playlist growth also strengthened.BNYX recorded a stronger Spotify audience, streaming, YouTube, and playlist results. Radio did not qualify because recent spins were lower than in the previous period and remained limited in volume.Mizmo followed a different patternFrench electronic artist Mizmo qualified across Spotify, playlist exposure, and radio.The artist’s Spotify monthly listener growth accelerated from roughly 120,000 during the earlier period to about 2.7 million during the recent one. Spotify streams increased from approximately 10 million to nearly 23 million.Mizmo’s playlist reach declined during the earlier period before increasing by almost 9 million during the recent period. The number of active Spotify playlists also moved from a slight decline to a growth of nearly 500.Radio spins increased from approximately 260 during the earlier period to more than 400 during the recent one.YouTube did not qualify because activity remained well below the study’s minimum view and subscriber requirements.Broad momentum remained relatively uncommonThe artists included in the detailed analysis had already been selected because they were showing notable Spotify movement.Even within that high-growth group, only three of 24 scored artists qualified across all four channel categories. Seven more qualified across three.The remaining artists generally followed narrower patterns. Some posted strong Spotify gains without comparable movement on YouTube or radio. Others recorded large playlist changes concentrated in one week. Several lacked sufficient historical data for one or more channels.The results demonstrate why a single headline metric can provide an incomplete picture.Spotify monthly listeners may rise while YouTube activity slows. Playlist exposure can expand without stronger radio airplay. Video views may increase while subscriber growth remains below a meaningful threshold.The data cannot establish what caused the changes. It does not show whether playlists produced additional streams, whether YouTube activity affected radio programming, or whether releases, collaborations, touring, or outside events influenced several channels at once.The analysis only identifies artists whose selected indicators strengthened during the same period.MethodologyThe research began with high-growth artist profiles across eight broad genre groups: country, pop, hip-hop, R&B, Latin, electronic, rock, and African music.Artists were required to have between 250,000 and 5 million Spotify monthly listeners in the June 15, 2026, data pull. June 14 was used as the latest complete historical date.The underlying Viberate data was accessed through Viberate’s MCP server connector and analyzed using the screening, comparison, and validation rules described below.The initial pool contained 90 artist records. Profiles were removed when they were inactive, duplicated, ambiguously identified, associated with functional audio or children’s entertainment, primarily known as nonmusic creators, or lacked sufficient historical data for comparison.Twenty-five artists advanced to detailed historical analysis. One was later excluded because its Spotify history began after the study had started, leaving 24 artists with complete breadth scores.The study compared two consecutive 90-day periods:Dec. 17, 2025, through March 16, 2026March 17 through June 14, 2026The analysis examined Spotify monthly listener movement, followers, and streams; YouTube views and subscribers; Spotify playlist reach and active playlists; and radio spins.For cumulative metrics such as Spotify streams and YouTube views, activity during each period was calculated by subtracting the cumulative total immediately before the period began from the total at the end of the period.Follower and subscriber additions were calculated using the same endpoint method. Changes in monthly listeners, playlist reach, and active playlists were measured by comparing values at the beginning and end of each period.Weekly data was used only to identify unusually concentrated movement. It was not summed to produce the published 90-day totals.Spotify playlist reach represents the combined follower count of playlists containing an artist’s music. It estimates potential maximum exposure rather than actual streams, unique listeners, or confirmed audience reached.A channel qualified only when all its selected indicators improved during the recent period, exceeded the previous-period result, met minimum activity requirements, and passed continuity and concentration checks.Minimum requirements included:At least 50,000 in positive Spotify monthly listener growthAt least 2,500 Spotify followers addedAt least 250,000 YouTube viewsAt least 1,000 YouTube subscribers addedAt least 25 active Spotify playlists addedAt least 250 radio spinsSpotify streams and playlist reach also had to be positive and greater than in the previous period.An indicator was flagged when more than 60% of its positive recent-period movement occurred within one week. Flagged indicators were excluded from the breadth score unless the change could be independently validated.The findings describe the screened candidate sample. They should not be interpreted as a complete global ranking of recording artists or as a prediction of future commercial success.This story was produced by Viberate and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Washington wildfires destroy homes, force thousands to evacuate Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown says nearly half of the city's neighborhoods have either been evacuated or are at risk as the fires remain uncontained.
	Area back-to-school dates for 2026-27 school year KWQC has compiled a full list of Quad Cities area schools’ first-day-of-school dates in Iowa and Illinois.
	Clinton Fire battles weekend structure fire Clinton firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire on Harts Mill Road on Saturday night. A news release from the Clinton Fire Department said firefighters were called to a structure fire in the 5400 block of Harts Mill Road on August 1 at about 6:37 p.m. Crews saw heavy smoke coming from the [...]
	Putnam Museum hosts Marlee Matlin for film screening, keynote during Culture Bright series The Putnam Museum will host Academy Award‑winner Marlee Matlin on Aug. 19 for a film screening, keynote address and the launch of new accessibility technology as part of the Culture Bright Summer Series.
	Muscatine man faces charges of enticing, grooming, sex abuse Joseph Leaver of Muscatine faces multiple felony charges, including enticing a minor, and is being held in the Muscatine County Jail on $50,000 bond.
	U.S. men's national team coach Mauricio Pochettino will stay through 2030 World Cup Pochettino came on in 2024 to right the ship ahead of this year's World Cup, in which he led the team to a record three wins and helped ignite enthusiasm in millions of fans before a round of 16 exit.
	5 money conversations to have before kids go back to school 5 money conversations to have before kids go back to schoolA new school year, for many families, means new expenses. Beyond school supplies, there are technology fees, lunches, club expenses, and the daily temptations of vending machines and in-app purchases for kids with access to mobile devices.Only 25% of U.S. parents who live with children say they talk with their kids about finances, according to Forbright Bank's recent survey of more than 1,800 U.S. consumers. As kids start a new school year, they typically gain some independence — and it's a great time to help them build money confidence.Parents teach by example, and deliberate conversations about finances drive the point home. These don't have to be formal chats; they can happen while driving to the store or taking a walk. Before your kids return to school, consider having these five money conversations.1. Where Does Money Come From?In today's world, when we complete transactions with a smartphone or a tap of a card, even older kids can miss that money is a real, tangible thing with limits.Show younger kids the different denominations of bills and coins and teach them how to count and divide money. Give them chances to pay with cash so the transactional element really sinks in. Explain that bank cards and digital wallets connect to real money in a bank account.Share how your household earns money. If your kids are old enough, give them opportunities to earn some of their own. Consider a small allowance tied to specific chores to demonstrate the link between effort and reward.2. How Do You Teach Kids to Save Money?Encourage your children to save money as an important step toward security. If your middle-schooler wants to join the group that walks to an ice cream shop after school, consider allowing them to join once they save enough to buy their own cone.With guidance, school-age kids can set weekly or monthly savings goals. If they want to buy a gaming pass next month, help them figure out how much they'll need to save to get it.Teach older kids about the power of compound interest with a savings calculator. They may better appreciate saving for long-term goals, such as buying a car or paying for prom next spring.3. How Do You Teach Kids to Spend Money Wisely?The foundation of healthy financial habits is learning to tell essentials from nonessentials. Shop with your kids and give them a small allowance to help them weigh their options.If your kids have access to a mobile wallet for purchases at school or during after-school activities, discuss your expectations for what they can buy and how much they can spend. Show your kids how to monitor their spending in the app or digital wallet and consider placing a limit on the linked card if needed.Kids who feel pressure to keep up with friends' spending may need help talking about their budget without embarrassment. It's easy to say something like, "I'm not going to buy that because I'm saving for the new video game coming out next month."4. How Do You Teach Kids to Make Smart Money Decisions?Financial decisions are personal, and it's a good idea to share yours with your kids. For example, you choose the more expensive laundry detergent because it has fewer harsh chemicals. You buy cotton balls on the two-for-one sale. You go to the farmers' market for eggs and peaches, but to the grocery store for bananas and milk. Explain your choices so kids see money management in action.When your kids ask for an item you can't or won't buy, give them more insight than a simple "no." Try "We have other expenses right now," or "It's not a wise use of our money right now," with a basic explanation to help them understand the value of money.Consider sharing your own experiences with money, both good and bad, to make an impact.5. How Do You Keep Your Money Safe Online?Kids are not immune to online financial scams. Scammers may reach out to kids through texts, social media, and gaming platforms, hoping to gather parents' financial information or use kids' information to open credit cards or take out loans.Talk with kids about how scammers gather information. Tell them to come to you if something feels off and stress the importance of strong passwords.Teach kids to watch out for common signs of a scam, such as:Messages or texts from strangers.Requests for a fee to win a prize."Get-rich-quick" schemes and deals that sound too good to be true.Pressure tactics that rush decisions.Instructions to pay with cash, gift card, wire transfer, crypto, or a payment app.Personal email domains paired with claims of representing a business.Misspelled web links.Generic greetings like "Dear Customer" or "Dear Member."Back-to-school season is a great time to start — or continue — a dialogue with kids about finances. Keep the conversation going as they gain more independence and more opportunities to manage money. Financial missteps may happen, but more knowledge can translate into fewer, smaller stumbles.This story was produced by Forbright Bank and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The states where vacation rental returns are holding and where they're falling apart The states where vacation rental returns are holding and where they're falling apartShort-term vacation rentals remain a solid investment for many landlords and property managers—as long as you know where to buy. As the market has matured and become saturated in some places, owners have also had to contend with more statewide and municipal-level regulations.These conditions have forced STR investors to analyze more data than ever before in their search for profitable properties. To give you a head start in your search, Property Reach has compiled a list of both STR-positive states and states where the landscape is relatively difficult.The State of the US Short-Term Rental (STR) Market in 2026The novelty of the short-term rental market has, in many respects, subsided for many consumers. As the U.S. STR market matures, the U.S. market specifically is expected to experience steady but not explosive growth. These trends are positive signs for STR property owners who saw a sharp drop in demand over the past three years after a strong uptick post-pandemic.As for the larger real estate market, the record-high median sales prices of 2022 seem like distant memories. The national median sales price has fallen 2.5% year over year and now sits at $403,200. Buying also seems to have picked up, in no small part due to lowered interest rates.Would-be STR property owners are noticing the increased affordability of U.S. homes, which is sure to lead to greater competition in 2026 and in the near future.States where Vacation Rental Returns are SolidThe attractiveness of STR properties can (and often does) vary wildly within the same state. As a result, ranking the 50 states by short-term vacation rentals involves the consideration of several factors, including each state’s current laws on STR management, available housing, and median home sales price.Even looking at the average return can be deceiving, as one or two large metros can present a distorted picture of the state’s full offerings. Below are the states where potential STR property owners can find profitable vacation rentals in numerous areas of the state, and not just in one hotspot where competition is likely to be fierce.Data from Realtor.com, AirDNA, Houfy, and The Motley Fool were used to compile the lists you see below. States are listed in no particular order.1. TexasEven after incoming migration has slowed somewhat in the Lone Star State, it’s difficult to find a better place to set up an STR property. Population growth remains strong, anchored by a steady job market and the absence of a state income tax. Although Dallas, Houston, and Austin attract the most attention, Texas contains many more attractive metros for STR properties, including Port Arthur, Abilene, and Waco.Another positive trait is the state’s preemption law. Statewide preemption laws, in the context of the STR market, are designed to prevent municipalities from enacting strict restrictions or outright bans on such property listings. STR owners and managers can then operate in a more predictable ecosystem without the looming threat of new municipal rules.Statewide preemption law: YesAverage home value: $301,1552. IndianaAlthough not included in many national conversations concerning top vacation spots, Indiana’s affordability, lack of STR competition, and investor-friendly laws make it too attractive not to include on this list. The state has plenty of lakes, state and national parks, and recreational opportunities, and its largest metro is among the nation’s fastest-growing metros.Statewide preemption law: YesAverage home value: $253,1973. ArizonaThe Grand Canyon State has long been friendly to landlords, offering a predictable operating environment and a long-standing STR preemption law. The mild winters support year-round tourism, especially in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Landlords also enjoy relatively short timelines for filing evictions and handling lease violations.Statewide preemption law: YesAverage home value: $423,3254. TennesseeThe combination of a strong statewide preemption law, gorgeous mountain views, and perhaps one of the hottest destinations for bachelorette trips (Nashville) makes Tennessee a strong candidate for the best STR state. The state’s eastern edge consistently produces strong STR returns for property owners, as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are top locales for vacationers across the country.Statewide preemption law: YesAverage home value: $333,020States where STR Returns are CrumblingSome states have given municipalities permission to enact heavy restrictions on STR properties. Many of those states are also contending with high property values that price out many would-be homebuyers.While it’s certainly possible to find diamonds in the rough, the following states’ STR markets are not easily navigable, relatively speaking.1. CaliforniaMany of California’s municipalities have implemented especially harsh restrictions on STR properties. Santa Monica, for instance, requires STR properties to be the owner’s homestead and restricts the number of nights the properties may be occupied. Combine that with the state’s high sales prices, and many investors think twice before going into the Golden State.Statewide preemption law: NoAverage home value: $774,9322. New YorkSpeaking of aggressive STR regulations, it’s impossible not to mention the Empire State. New York City’s rules make it impossible for a large percentage of property owners to list on Airbnb and Vrbo. While the rest of the state has some decent areas, the lack of a statewide preemption law makes New York a risky STR investment.Statewide preemption law: NoAverage home value: $505,2373. ColoradoAlthough Colorado is experiencing steady population growth, its STR market is less bright. The high demand for vacation rentals among the state’s skiing destinations has led many cities to cap the number of STR properties, and more regulations may come to pass in the November 2026 elections. Demand has also driven home prices higher, making it difficult for prospective owners to get a foothold.Statewide preemption law: NoAverage home value: $543,6264. Hawai'iThe barrier to entry in Hawai'i’s STR market is perhaps the nation’s highest. The state already has the most expensive property; add to that a number of restrictions and fierce competition, and you have a notoriously difficult market.Statewide preemption law: NoAverage home value: $832,071Resources for Learning MoreAs much as statewide restrictions inform prospective investors, they can only reveal so much. Demand for vacation rentals remains sky-high in southern California, for instance, and the right properties can yield strong returns.Use the following resources to drill down into the most attractive metros, cities, and neighborhoods:Airbnb’s proprietary analyzer tool that can estimate earnings based on a property’s locationVrbo’s performance and rankings tools that suggest adjustments to your STR propertiesAirDNA’s website—specifically blog postsHoufy’s guide to STR regulations by stateSelective STR Buying Wins the Day for InvestorsIt’s more important than ever to analyze the permitting process for STR properties by state, metro, and municipality. Regulations are becoming the norm in many places, and stubbornly high home prices make due diligence essential for investors wanting to maximize profits.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Clinton Area Showboat Theatre to present 'Putnam County Spelling Bee' The Clinton Area Showboat Theatre will present "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" opening Thursday, Aug, 6, and running through Sunday, Aug. 16, a news release says. The production is directed by Clinton Area Showboat Associate Producer Ryan Scoble.Winner of two Tony Awards, including Best Book, "The 25th Annual Putnam CountySpelling Bee" is a [...]
	Paint It Back will return to downtown Clinton Paint it Back is coming to downtown Clinton in 2026 starting a bold new chapter, a news release says. After three years of transforming a former anchor, now vacant building, in the Lyons District into a colorful open-air gallery, Paint it Back will take the public art movement to a new location in downtown Clinton. [...]
	Bureau Co. man accused in standoff that killed toddler due in court Monday ureau County man Anthony Rodriguez faces a status hearing Monday after a hostage standoff that tragically ended in a toddler's death last year.
	More than 74,000 older adults seek measles immunity tests amid US outbreaks More than 74,000 older adults seek measles immunity tests amid US outbreaksMeasles was surging in West Texas as Nancy Churnin eagerly awaited the birth of two grandchildren. She was sure she had been vaccinated decades ago, but she wanted to confirm she was still protected.She didn’t want to risk spreading the highly contagious disease to vulnerable newborns, so she got a simple blood test last year.“I wanted to double-check my immunity,” said Churnin, a children’s book author who lives in Plano, Texas, near Dallas.Churnin is among more than 74,000 U.S. adults over age 50 who have received blood tests checking their measles antibody status from January 2025 through March of this year, according to an exclusive analysis of medical records data conducted in response to questions from Healthbeat.The rates of older adults seeking measles immunity tests spiked across the country during last year’s West Texas measles outbreak and again earlier this year as South Carolina’s measles outbreak became the nation’s largest in decades, according to the analysis by a research team at Truveta, a healthcare data and analytics company that receives patient care data from major health systems that serve about 1 in 3 U.S. residents.Truveta’s research team said its analysis suggests that public awareness of high-profile local measles outbreaks might be influencing more people across the country to seek the immunity tests, which are called titer tests.Nina Masters, the principal applied research scientist at Truveta who led the analysis, told Healthbeat she was struck by the spikes in titer testing during outbreaks because historically, the standard recommendation has been to just vaccinate people who don’t have proof of immunity.“To me, that suggests outbreaks are influencing healthcare-seeking behavior and reflects growing concern among Americans who want to understand their immunity status and protect themselves and their loved ones amid rising measles activity,” said Masters, a former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention epidemiologist who has deployed to multiple measles outbreaks.As the U.S. is poised to have another record year for measles, people who are infected are increasingly exposing others to the virus in a wide range of public settings, from schools and churches to restaurants, stores, and airports. The virus spreads through the air and can linger in a room for two hours after the infectious person has left, putting anybody who goes through the area at risk if they lack immunity.The result is that large numbers of people need to quarantine at home for up to 21 days if they are not vaccinated against measles or cannot provide proof of their immunity through previous vaccination or illness.“We think it’s important for people to know their immunity status,” said Dr. Emma Doran of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, which recommends titer tests as one of the ways people can check their immunity before they are exposed.Titer tests can be particularly helpful for older adults who were vaccinated against measles long before electronic medical records and state immunization registries, and no longer have their paper vaccination records. The measles vaccine provides lifelong immunity for most people. Two doses of the combination measles-mumps-rubella shot is 97% effective against measles, and one dose is 93% effective.“There is a good chunk of the population there that, unfortunately, if somebody didn’t hold on to that paper, they don’t have it,” said Doran, who is the medical director of the department’s Vaccine Preventable and Respiratory Diseases Medical Consultation Unit.Immunity tests spiked in US during Texas, South Carolina outbreaksThe new data on titer testing provides a window into one of the many ways the return of measles in the United States is impacting people’s lives. The disease was declared eliminated from the country in 2000. In November, an international public health body will review whether the disease has once again become endemic to the United States.During 2025 — as a major measles outbreak was underway in West Texas — more than 62,000 older adults across the country went to doctors’ offices to get measles titer tests, the Truveta analysis found. Thomas Wilburn // Healthbeat, Source: Truveta Research The surge in testing was dramatic, and not just in Texas.Nationwide, adults 50 and older received measles immunity testing last year at nearly seven times the rate they had in recent years. From 2021 through 2024, a typical month saw about 50 people get tested for measles immunity for every 100,000 adults who had an outpatient doctor’s visit. But in 2025, that figure reached nearly 341 tests per 100,000 adults.The rate of titer testing within the state of Texas was particularly high, peaking at 627 tests per 100,000. But even when data from Texas was excluded, the data for the rest of the United States still showed a spike in testing at nearly 309 tests per 100,000.A similar pattern played out during the first three months of this year, when more than 12,000 U.S. adults over 50 received titer tests as the South Carolina measles outbreak became the nation’s largest in 35 years. The analysis showed an even larger spike in testing rates in 2019, when measles outbreaks also fueled an earlier record number of cases.The Truveta analysis involved an examination of electronic health record data from nearly 30 million patients over 50 who had outpatient visits from January 2018 through March 2026. The data is provided to Truveta by the company’s health system members. The researchers looked at data for older adults to try to focus on those seeking the tests long after childhood vaccination or illness, as well as to reduce the inclusion of routine prenatal testing.Truveta conducted the analysis after Healthbeat asked the company whether its data could provide any information about whether more people were seeking titer tests amid the recent measles outbreaks.While the data does not say why the individuals received measles titer tests, Masters and her research team said the spikes in titer testing during outbreaks likely reflect a combination of patient concern, vigilance by healthcare providers, exposure-related evaluations, and adult uncertainty about immunization status. Media coverage might also play a role.There could be many reasons why an adult might want to check their immunity amid the increased spread of measles, the researchers said. They include grandparents seeking to confirm they are protected before visiting infant grandchildren, as well as adults who are worried about the risk of living in or traveling to an outbreak area.Protecting her newborn grandbabies was Nancy Churnin’s motivation in getting a measles titer test last year before they were born. The babies’ parents were also seeking to safeguard their infants against infectious diseases.“Anybody who wanted to see the baby was on notice: Get all your shots or we can’t let you around the baby unless you’re fully, fully vaccinated,” recalled Churnin.When Churnin’s titer test result came back, she was surprised to learn she was not immune to measles. She was certain she had been vaccinated as a child, but she was born in 1957 and she has no access to her records, and her parents aren’t around to ask. After the test, she got vaccinated.“I was very, very glad I got the test. I’m very, very glad I got immunized,” Churnin said. “I don’t want to do anything to endanger those babies, anybody’s babies.”Should you get a titer test? Cost, doctors’ views shape decisions.Most older adults are likely to be protected against measles either because they were vaccinated as children or had the disease before vaccines became available.Adults born before 1957 are officially presumed to be immune to measles because they were likely infected when they were children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaccines against measles have been available in the United States since the early 1960s, with an improved version of the vaccine distributed since 1968.Should those who can’t find their vaccination records ask their doctors for titer tests?The CDC recommends that adults born during or after 1957 who can’t find their immunization records get the MMR vaccine. But the CDC guidance also says they can get a measles titer test to determine if they need the vaccine. “There is no harm in getting another dose of MMR vaccine if an individual may already be immune,” the CDC says.There are several factors to consider in deciding whether to do a titer test or just get another MMR shot, experts said.Dr. Margot Savoy, chief medical officer of the American Academy of Family Physicians, told Healthbeat that it’s not common for patients to ask for a titer test unless they work in a healthcare field where the test is required.“The question that they normally ask is: How do I know if I’m protected?” she said.“For most family physicians, and most physicians in general, their answer would be, I don’t know that I would draw titers on most people. If we’re at all worried that you might not be protected, we would just give you another MMR” vaccine, she said.Savoy said the time and cost of getting a titer test is not worth it for the average patient, because the test may show the person needs to get vaccinated anyway.Unlike the MMR vaccine, which is routinely covered by insurance plans without patient cost-sharing, there are no requirements for insurance coverage of titer tests, although insurers can choose to cover them. In addition to getting the tests through a doctor’s office, many direct-to-consumer labs and walk-in clinics also will do the tests without a prescription, but the costs can range from $40 to $150 or more.Individual patients may weigh the costs and benefits differently when deciding between just getting an MMR shot or getting tested, said Doran.“I think there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for whether to do an MMR vaccine if you don’t have the records or whether to get a titer first,” she said.This story was produced by Healthbeat and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Young people turn to AI to be ‘their real, unfiltered selves’ Young people turn to AI to be ‘their real, unfiltered selves’Alison Lee still remembers the conversation that helped her understand why young people turn to the safety of artificial intelligence for companionship and belonging. She was talking to a high school student and the girl told her, “Nobody dances at prom anymore.”A researcher at The Rithm Project, a nonprofit focused on human connection in the age of AI, Lee asked: Why not?In a word, the girl said: Instagram.“If you try to dance at prom, you’re going to look stupid at some point,” Lee recalled her saying. Eventually someone will pull out a phone, the girl went on, and you’ll end up on someone’s feed, seen by “the entire school” with mortifying results. Better just to play it safe.“Everybody just goes to prom to look cute,” the girl explained, “take a picture for the ‘gram, eat and leave.”For Lee, who has spent years studying human belonging, that exchange unlocked an important, if unspoken, part of why AI holds such appeal. “We’ve created this set of conditions where young people don’t feel like they have permission to be their real, unfiltered selves,” she told The 74 for this story. So they turn to AI, which is programmed to affirm them at every step.Recent findings from Lee and her colleagues at the Rithm Project offer this insight among others, painting a detailed portrait of how young people use AI and why. For the March 2026 report, "Youth, AI, and the Relationships That Shape Them," the researchers surveyed 2,383 people ages 13 to 24 across the U.S. and found that for nearly half of them, AI has already reshaped their relationships in ways that are largely flying under the radar of parents, teachers and policymakers.Among the findings:Just 15% of young people are in relationships with “personified AI” characters — but for about 45%, AI is already reshaping their real-life relationships.53% of young people say they set clear boundaries with AI, using it alongside — not instead of — human support.61% say parents rarely or never talk to them about AI, and 53% say the same about teachers.Youth from low-income households are three times less likely than others to engage with AI. However, 21% feel lonely often or all the time, compared to 6% of high-income youth; 57% feel like a burden to others, compared to 42%; and only 34% feel a strong sense of belonging at school, compared to 62%.For the study, researchers sorted respondents into four broad clusters. About 28% rarely or never use AI, often out of ethical reasons or just disinterest. The largest group, 39%, uses AI primarily as a practical tool. They turn to chatbots such as Claude, ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini for homework and research, while keeping clear boundaries between AI and their emotional lives.Another 18% use AI for personal and relational support, such as venting about a tough day, seeking relationship advice and processing emotions. And 15% engage with AI characters and personas in more intimate, companion-like ways.Within the four groups, researchers found nine variations that challenge the conventional wisdom around AI use. For instance, among those who use AI for emotional support were two very different groups, called “Social Processors” and “Private Processors.” While they may look similar from the outside — both say they have lots of friends and use AI to work through their emotions — the research found that the Social Processors use AI as just one tool among many. The Private Processors, by contrast, use it as a substitute for real human interactions because they feel they can’t bring problems to those around them.One 24-year-old male participant in The Rithm Project’s study began using AI again after taking a break, saying: “I started using it once, I guess, I realized people got tired of me complaining about the same thing over and over again. And I didn’t want to keep burdening people about the same issue.”That data point could hold the key to understanding problematic AI use, Lee and her colleagues said, challenging the idea that lonely teens with small social circles are most at risk of unhealthy AI dependence. The data suggest something else altogether, said Kashyap Rajesh, a rising junior at Cornell University who consulted on the report.“The driver of risky AI use is not necessarily isolation,” he said, but rather “feeling like a burden” to others. “That came through in the research,” Rajesh said.The number of friends a young person has, the size of their social circle, how busy they are, whether they’ve got family nearby and even their feelings of loneliness barely predict whether they’ll fall into dependent AI use, Rajesh said. “What actually predicts it is specific feelings: Feeling like a burden to others, feeling like you can’t be your real self, feeling like there’s no one to turn to.”Julia Freeland Fisher, a researcher at the Clayton Christensen Institute who advised on the study, said that the finding should help start a different kind of conversation around AI. “Burdening one another is building reciprocity, which is how we maintain the social contract, how we maintain social cohesion,” she said. That young people are increasingly bypassing this step should be alarming, she added.“AI companions wouldn’t be nearly so disruptive to human connection if we had a sturdier social fabric,” said Fisher. It’s the weakness of our social fabric that makes these findings so worrisome, Fisher noted, not necessarily the technology itself.‘It just keeps feeling easier than the alternative’For Lee, the finding on being a burden reframes so much of our understanding about young people’s relationship to AI. Virtually every survey respondent reported a specific “relational rupture” or crisis that made them turn to the technology.One young woman’s first question to a chatbot was, “I didn’t get asked to Homecoming — am I unlovable?” Another: “I got into a huge fight with my best friend, and I don’t want to tell anybody else because I don’t want them to take sides, so I needed to ask AI.”“Story after story after story,” Lee recalled, “of a very singular, acute, discrete moment when they really had a moment of need and needed somewhere to put it.”Rajesh, the Cornell student, said the data reveal a steady shift in which perhaps millions of young people are moving from letting AI help with homework to asking it to mediate their emotional lives.“They start off using it to help them write an essay, or help them prepare for their interview, or to study for an exam,” he said. “And they’re like, ‘OK, damn, this is really good, this is really helpful.’ And eventually their interactions escalate.”The drift happens gradually, he said. AI helps draft an email or respond to a text. Next it’s helping to navigate a social situation. Before long it’s processing a breakup.Rajesh, who’s studying information science and AI policy, said his own AI use crept up on him: He went from studying with Claude to creating personalized AI study guides to wondering if even attending class mattered.“I found that how many times I go to class and how actively I’m paying attention in class is actually not the biggest indicator of my understanding of the content or exam performance,” he said. “It’s actually just how much time I spend with Claude dissecting the lecture slides and building study guides that work for me.”The report notes that because even productivity-focused platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude are engineered to interact with warmth and reassurance, what starts out as homework help or playful experimentation can evolve into a substitute for human interaction.“Nobody wakes up and decides they want AI to be their emotional support system,” Rajesh said. “It just keeps feeling easier than the alternative. And so by the time you notice it, the habit is already there.”What adults get wrongAlongside the findings on AI use, researchers found that how adults talk about AI is also potentially problematic: Their conversations are almost always about academic integrity — cheating, plagiarism, source citation — and rarely about relationships.Rajesh said adults should be asking directly whether young people are using AI to process emotions, to rehearse hard conversations and to get support when they’re struggling. “Those are questions that signal to a young person that the adult knows this dimension exists and isn’t going to freak out about it — which is, I think, the prerequisite for any honest conversation happening at all.”Michelle Culver, the Rithm Project’s founder and a co-author of the report, said young people tell researchers that when the topic is AI use, they’re “navigating it alone.” She suggested that adults approach the topic with “curiosity” rather than “judgment or shaming.” That could help both sides gain insight into each others’ struggles in the face of a technology that’s constantly challenging their reality.In the same way that educators are worried that young people aren’t engaging in the “productive struggle” of learning academic content, Culver said, “We similarly worry that young people might offload the relational work to AI and become ill-equipped to handle the very messy human friction of real relationships.”This story was produced by The 74 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	5 ways to help kids adjust to the new school year (BPT) - As backpacks get packed, homework returns and family schedules fill up, many parents and caregivers assume the hardest part of back-to-school season is the initial reentry.But for many children, the real adjustment happens in the weeks after school begins.New teachers, academic expectations, social dynamics, extracurricular activities and changing routines can create stress that isn't always obvious. While some children openly talk about their worries, others show signs through changes in behavior, sleep, mood or motivation."Many families focus on getting through the first day of school, but the real adjustment often happens over the following weeks," said Dr. Sascha Arbouet, child/adolescent psychiatrist and Medical Director, Pediatrics at Bend Health, a national provider of pediatric mental health care. "Children aren't just adjusting to being back in the classroom. They're taking on new teachers, new routines, new classmates, new expectations and often a full schedule of extracurricular activities. That's a lot for any child to process. While the start of the school year is often exciting, it can also be mentally and emotionally exhausting. Paying attention to changes in mood, sleep, behavior or school avoidance can help families identify concerns early."Parents and caregivers can play an important role in helping children navigate the transition and build confidence as the school year gets underway.1. Ask intentional questionsMany children struggle to answer broad questions like, "How was school today?"Instead, try asking more specific questions:What was the best part of your day?What felt challenging?Who did you spend time with today?Is there anything you're worried about this week?Small, consistent conversations can help children feel comfortable sharing concerns before they become bigger issues.2. Watch for changes in behaviorSchool-related stress doesn't always sound like, "I'm scared."Children may become more irritable, withdrawn, emotional, tired or resistant to school routines. Others may seem less interested in activities they typically enjoy.Some sadness that summer is over, irritability from feeling exhausted or anxiety about a new routine is completely normal during the first few weeks of school. What becomes more concerning is when those reactions are persistent or begin interfering with everyday life. If a child doesn't want to go to school several days each week, consistently struggles to sleep or eat, or their mood or behavior continues to worsen instead of improving, it may be time to seek additional support.3. Prioritize sleep and routinesOne of the simplest ways to support children's mental health is maintaining consistent routines.Regular sleep schedules, predictable mornings and structured after-school routines help children feel more secure during periods of change. Sleep plays an important role in emotional regulation, attention, learning and overall well-being.Caregivers should also be mindful of overscheduling. Sports, clubs and extracurricular activities can be valuable, but children also need time to recharge.4. Stay connected with teachers and other trusted adultsFamilies don't have to navigate school transitions alone.Teachers, school counselors, coaches and other trusted adults can often provide valuable insight into how a child is adjusting. Open communication between home and school can help identify concerns early and create a stronger support system around the child.This can be especially helpful for children with ADHD, anxiety, autism, learning differences or other behavioral health needs.5. Know when to seek helpSome adjustment challenges improve naturally as children settle into new routines. Others may persist or worsen over time.Parents and caregivers should consider seeking professional support if anxiety, mood changes, behavioral challenges, school avoidance or emotional distress begin interfering with daily life, friendships, family relationships, sleep or academic performance."The earlier we identify concerns, the easier it is to provide support before small challenges become bigger obstacles," said Arbouet. "Parents and caregivers know their children best. If something feels different or concerning, it's worth paying attention to."Bend Health provides virtual mental health care, coaching, psychiatry and caregiver support for children, teens and young adults. By working with young people and their families, Bend helps build practical skills that support emotional well-being throughout the school year and beyond.For more information, visit www.BendHealth.com.
	Back-to-school made easier: 5 benefits of shelf-stable milk (BPT) - The back-to-school season is officially here! This time of year is full of shopping and planning to make the first day of school — and the rest that follow — easier on you and your kids. One way to simplify your school-day prep and upgrade your kid's lunch is by picking up a few cartons of shelf-stable milk at the grocery store.By using a combination of ultra high temperature (UHT) treatment and sterile aseptic packaging, dairy milk becomes shelf-stable without additives or preservatives. That means it can be stored at room temperature for six months or more when unopened.Read on to discover five reasons why shelf-stable milk is a total game-changer for your family this school year.Eliminates the need for ice packsHave you ever started to pack your kid's lunch only to discover you didn't freeze the ice packs the night before? Now you have to choose between sending your child to school with a less nutritious drink or rolling the dice with milk — hoping it stays cold until lunchtime.With shelf-stable milk, you can kiss those worries goodbye. That's because shelf-stable milk cartons don't require refrigeration. You can toss one straight into your kid's lunchbox, so they never miss their favorite drink. Also, shelf-stable milk cartons are perfect for playdates, road trips and weekend sports!Encourages recyclingTeaching the next generation to go green can start at home and in the cafeteria. Shelf-stable milk packaged in recyclable containers like Tetra Pak® aseptic cartons provides an opportunity for kids to start recycling. By encouraging this small daily habit, your family can help the planet in a big way.Cuts back on food wasteShelf-stable milk is a great way to reduce food waste! Because Tetra Pak aseptic cartons provide six layers of protection, the dairy milk inside is safe from light, oxygen, bacteria and moisture.These cartons make it possible to safely transport and store perishable food and beverages, even with limited cold storage. That means kids don't have to toss out milk that's been sitting unrefrigerated in the classroom before lunchtime, decreasing food waste, minimizing environmental impact and protecting your budget. Provides several dietary optionsEvery child is unique, and so are their dietary needs. Thankfully, shelf-stable milk comes in a variety of formulations, including lactose-free options to suit practically every dietary preference. Now you can rest easy knowing your child can have milk without a tummy ache.Preserves without preservativesBecause of the UHT method used to create shelf-stable milk, you can make sure your child has consistent access to delicious, nutrient-rich dairy milk without any added preservatives or artificial additives. It's the same wholesome, nutritious milk you love, just packaged smarter to suit modern families and busy lifestyles.Get ready for the back-to-school season with these five tips. While you do your weekly grocery shopping, visit the baking or breakfast aisle to find and stock up on shelf-stable milk, so you'll be ready for the first day of school and the year ahead. Plus, you can use them this summer, no matter where your warm-weather activities take you.To learn more about the benefits of shelf-stable milk, visit TetraPak.com/EN-US/SchoolMilk.
	More drivers are staying in their current cars. Why they should consider revisiting their original loan. More drivers are staying in their current cars. Why they should consider revisiting their original loan.With new car prices averaging $50,000 and inflation squeezing household budgets, more Americans are holding on to their car for longer. Findings from Caribou’s 2026 Car Loan Sentiment Survey of 2,000 U.S. auto loan holders suggest that this decision to stay put raises the financial stakes on loans most borrowers have never revisited. Only 29% of borrowers have ever checked whether they qualify for a lower rate, yet 85% agree that saving $150 a month on their car loan would make life significantly easier. Caribou broke down why drivers should revisit their original auto loan.High car prices compel drivers to stay putThe average vehicle on U.S. roads today is approximately 13 years old, a record high according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics data. This is up from nearly 10 years in 2006.Caribou’s survey data tracks closely with what the broader auto market shows. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of auto loan holders say they’ve noticed new car prices rise over the past year. Among that group, the single most common response—by a wide margin—is to keep their current vehicle longer, cited by 41%. Buying a used car instead came in second at 17%. Caribou This “stay put” decision is reinforced by another factor: Most of these borrowers bought new. Sixty-two percent of survey respondents purchased a new vehicle at their most recent transaction, meaning they’re more likely to keep their car for longer. With new cars averaging $50,000, it’s no surprise why owners see this as a long-term financial commitment.Older generations are also more likely to hold on to their cars. Among Baby Boomers who noticed vehicle price increases, 58% say they’ll keep their current car longer—the highest response of any generation and nearly double the share of Gen Z. Gen X came in at 49%. These are also the generations most likely to have paid down a meaningful portion of their loan, making their current car an asset worth preserving.Prime credit borrowers follow a similar pattern. Among those with scores of 800–850, 52% plan to keep their vehicle longer in response to rising prices. They’re also the borrowers most likely to qualify for better loan terms through refinancing.Keeping a car longer raises the stakes on the original loanFor the growing number of drivers keeping their cars longer, the terms of the loan they took out—possibly in a different rate environment and under pressure at a dealership—become more consequential over time. Most borrowers didn’t accept their original terms under favorable conditions. Forty-four percent of respondents felt moderately to very pressured during the financing process, and about 1 in 4 believe they did not get the best deal.High car prices have also led more borrowers to take on longer loan terms to keep monthly payments affordable. According to Edmunds, 84-month loans hit an all-time high in Q2 2026, now accounting for nearly 1 in 4 new-car financing agreements. But a longer term means more months of exposure to whatever rate was locked in at signing.Payment strain raises the stakes even further. Nearly 1 in 3 borrowers struggled to make their car payment on time in the past year. And 23% currently owe more than $30,000 on their loan, meaning they’ll be carrying this balance for years. The question is at what rate. Over half (53%) of borrowers took out their current loan one to four years ago, during a postpandemic, high-rate environment. Auto loan rates climbed sharply in 2022, peaking in early-mid 2024. These same borrowers could see meaningful savings based on today’s rates. Caribou As vehicles age, drivers need a stronger safety netFor a borrower already managing a tight car payment, an unplanned engine, transmission, or brake repair is a genuine financial threat. According to a recent Federal Reserve survey, the single most common unexpected expense Americans reported in the past year was a major vehicle repair or replacement—cited by 30% of adults, ahead of both home repairs and medical expenses.When asked what they’d do saving $150 a month on their car payment, 56% of borrowers said they’d build emergency savings. For someone holding onto a vehicle longer, this buffer is what keeps an unexpected repair bill from derailing their budget. Drivers should also consider other protections designed for extended ownership, such as a vehicle service contract (VSC), which helps cover certain mechanical repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty expires, and guaranteed asset protection (GAP) coverage that can pay the difference if a car is totaled or stolen and the insurance payout is less than the remaining loan balance.The original deal doesn’t have to be the final oneCar owners may be staying put, but they don’t have to carry their original loan terms all the way through. Yet, only 29% of auto loan holders have ever checked whether they qualify for a lower rate. Among those who have refinanced, 95% succeeded in lowering their payment, their annual percentage rate (APR), or both. The challenge is that most borrowers closed the chapter on their car loan the day they drove off the lot.But changes in the market suggest that these borrowers are starting to reconsider their original loan terms. More than half (56%) say they’re likely to consider refinancing in the next 12 months—a meaningful signal of intent. For the majority who haven’t checked yet, the window is open, and the longer the car stays in the driveway, the more that window is worth using.This story was produced by Caribou and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Back-to-school checklist: Toiletries, gym bag essentials and dorm room must-haves for teens and college students Back-to-school checklist: Toiletries, gym bag essentials and dorm room must-haves for teens and college studentsBack-to-school shopping is about more than notebooks, backpacks, lunch boxes and traditional school supplies. Sending your kids to school with personal care items can help make the transition easier, whether they are stocking a locker, packing a gym bag or moving into a dorm with a shared bathroom.Use this back-to-school checklist from Dove to plan toiletries, sweat-management essentials, shower products and semester restocks for your middle school, high school and college-age kids. This guide is designed for parents and caregivers who want to promote a healthy and confident lifestyle for their kids by equipping them with a few personal care essentials.Talk to your kid about what they needWhen you’re back-to-school shopping, have a conversation with your child about what they need to be successful this school year and how you can help support them. Listen to what they say they need. This may open the door for them to talk beyond just school supplies and about their friends, hopes and fears for the upcoming school year. Whatever they share, be an active listener and a supportive parent and help give them self-confidence.How to build a back-to-school toiletries checklistA complete back-to-school toiletries checklist should include everyday hair, skin, deodorant and dental basics. Start thinking about when your student will be using the items and build your shopping list accordingly. Here are some questions to ask yourself when packing:What is their schedule?Do they need to pack for multiple occasions (everyday backpack, locker, gym class, etc.)?What toiletries do they like to use?What personal care items are they most likely to need on the go?How much space will they have to store things?Will they have a car?What to avoid packing for your teenWhen you are packing your back-to-school list, expect your kid to use, share or even lose all of the items that you pack before the end of the school year. Some things to avoid packing include:Expensive items: While you should pack some of your kid’s favorite items, avoid items that you would be upset about if they were lost.Heavier-than-necessary toiletries in daily bags: When your teen is carrying these items in their bags, they won’t want extra weight and will appreciate travel-size bottles.Improperly packaged bottles: School is hard enough without your hand sanitizer exploding in your backpack. Make sure all the items have a secure lid and won’t leak.What to pack in a teen’s backpack?A backpack is something your student will have access to most of the time, so it’s a great place to put toiletries that they may need on the go, before school, during class (depending on your school’s rules) or after school.To help keep their backpack organized, dedicate one section of your kid’s backpack to emergency items or get a small bag that can fit into their backpack to house everything.Backpack Checklist (travel-sized or small items):DeodorantHand sanitizerLip balmTissuesHair ties, bobby pins or claw clipsTravel toothbrush and pasteDental floss or floss picksMenstrual care (pads, tampons, etc.)Middle school or high school locker checklistTypically, middle and high school students have lockers to keep things in between classes and overnight. To help your kids prepare for any hygiene emergency they (or one of their friends) might have, send them to school with a small stash of personal care products.Similar to packing a backpack, consider a small bag of items that they may not want to ask a teacher or nurse for when they need them. If you have included an item in their backpack, you probably don’t need to include it in their locker kit, since they’ll rarely be at their locker without their backpack. When packing for a locker, think about how often they will use the item. If it is used daily, consider a larger size, but if it’s rarely used, prioritize travel or trial sizes.Locker Checklist:DeodorantWhole body anti-chafe stick or whole body deodorant sprayHand sanitizerLip balmLotionFace wipesDry shampooHair ties, bobby pins or claw clipsMini mirrorTravel hairbrushNail fileSafety pinsToothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwashDental floss or floss picksMenstrual care (pads, tampons, etc.)Gym bag toiletry listWhether your kid has before-school practice, midday gym class, or after-school sports, they will need one dedicated bag for their workout attire and post-workout care.Tips for packing a gym bag:Use multiple bags: If your kid has multiple activities, such as before-school swim practice and after-school ballet, consider using two clearly labeled bags so they are easy to find and grab when needed.Keep the bag packed: If your child needs a gym bag every day, there’s no need to completely unpack everything. Simply remove the sweaty clothes and replace them with clean clothes (or have them do it) and keep all other items in the bag so nothing is forgotten.Gym Bag Checklist:DeodorantWhole body anti-chafe stick or a whole body deodorant sprayBody wash or a beauty barShampooConditionerHair styling productsHairbrushLotionFace wipesHair ties, bobby pins or claw clipsToothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwashMenstrual care (pads, tampons, etc.)Tips for helping to manage sweat and body odor at schoolSweating or body odor after P.E. class, sports or even just a long school day is normal, especially during middle and high school. Creating a routine can help them manage their sweat confidently and discreetly.Tips for building a sweat management routine include:Allow your kid to pick out their deodorant or antiperspirant at the store so they can test the different scents.Apply deodorant or antiperspirant before school.Keep a backup deodorant in a locker, gym bag or sports bag.Change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible after practice.Bring a small towel and clean socks for long activity days.Remind them to shower after sports or heavy sweating when facilities and schedules allow. If they don’t have time or access to a shower, consider sending them with body wipes and encourage them to reapply deodorant or antiperspirant.Restock gym bag items frequently so products do not run out unexpectedly.College dorm toiletries checklistCollege students living away from home need toiletries for daily routines, shared bathrooms, gym visits and weekend travel. Many college students do not have a car on campus, so it’s important to send them with a few months’ supply when they leave for school. A good dorm checklist should include in-use products for the shower caddy, plus backup products that can stay in dorm storage.Shower basics: body wash, beauty bar, shampoo, conditioner, razor and shaving creamDaily freshness: deodorant, whole body deodorant, lotion, facial cleanser, moisturizer and lip balmShared bathroom items: shower caddy, shower shoes, robe, towels and washclothsDental care: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash and a toothbrush coverHair care: dry shampoo, hair styling products, brush, comb, and hair ties or clipsFor communal bathrooms, a shower caddy and shower shoes are especially important. Keep the products your student uses daily in the caddy, then store club-pack extras in a bin, closet shelf or under-bed storage so they can refill without taking every bottle to the bathroom.Tips for helping college students take care of themselves during their first semesterCollege is an incredibly exciting milestone for both students and parents. Kids are becoming adults and have more freedom and responsibilities than ever before. The first semester of college can be a challenge for students, learning how to balance studying and classes, extracurricular activities, and friendships. Sometimes this can lead to a slippage in taking care of themselves.Tips for talking to your college freshman about personal care:Be honest: You were 18 once and know that they are excited about all of the new things they’re going to experience. Get excited with them about all of the things they will get to do at college.Instill routine: Throughout your kids’ childhoods, you helped them set routines by getting them to school on time, making healthy meals, providing an outlet for exercise and setting reasonable bedtimes. As they move to their college campus, talk to them about building a new routine with the resources they will have available to them.Set goals: College is a time to explore new things. Creating goals at the beginning of the semester can help you guide new students and keep them on track even when there are a lot of potential distractions.Address peer pressure: As they are meeting new people and making friends, they may feel peer pressured to stay up late or eat unhealthily. Remind your teen that they don’t have to do any of these things to have a full college experience. It’s okay to say you have to go to bed early if you have a test the next morning.Be available: Make sure they know they can call or text you anytime with questions and that you won’t be judgmental.How many toiletries does a college student need for a semester?How much body wash, deodorant or shampoo a college student uses depends on product size, shower frequency, activity level, climate and personal routine. Instead of packing one of everything, plan for your child’s personal use plus backups. Look at your student’s schedule and try to plan to send enough products so that they won’t need to refill until you see them next (fall break, Christmas, etc.).Bulk packs can be helpful because they let families stock a semester’s worth of essentials before move-in. They are also useful when students want one product in the dorm, one in the shower caddy and one in a gym bag or backpack.If your student runs out of an item in the middle of the semester and doesn’t have easy access to a car, do not worry. There are a lot of retailers who can easily and quickly ship products for affordable prices to student mailboxes.How and where to shop for personal care productsToday you can get personal care products nearly everywhere, both in stores and online. The number of choices can be overwhelming. Use these tips to simplify your shopping experience:Create a list: Talk to everyone in your family so that you know exactly what you need to buy for each person and in what quantity. This will help avoid impulse purchases in the store.Limit the number of stores: Simplify your shopping by sticking to one to two stores for all of your products. This will save you time from having to drive to multiple stores.Shop in bulk: Multipacks are a great way to shop economically, especially when your family needs multiple bottles of the same product.Check the sales: As back-to-school approaches, there are often sales on school supplies and personal care items to help families prepare for the season.Personalize your back-to-school shopping for your studentsRemember, everyone has different product format and scent preferences that may be changing rapidly as they mature, try new things and are influenced by friends and social media. Helping them prepare for the unknown scenarios shows that you care and gives them confidence that you trust them if they have a hiccup.Once you have gone back-to-school shopping, make sure you talk about what you bought, how it’s packed, why you packed it and how to use any new products. Give them an easy way to communicate with you that they need more of something, such as adding it to your weekly shopping list. Set reminders (monthly or on school breaks) for checking on when your kids might need product restocks. Keep the conversation open so they know they can always come to you for advice, especially during the teenage years when they are experiencing a lot of changes.This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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