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

Monday, June 22nd, 2026
	Vander Veer Stone Fountain to not turn on this year, parks and recreation officials say The Davenport Parks & Recreation Department says they have some disappointing news to share that the Vander Veer Stone Fountain will not turn on this year.
	Walcott woman pushed child outside naked and filmed it deputies say Ware is in the Scott County Jail on a $250,000 cash-only bond. She has a preliminary hearing on July 2.
	Traffic on 13th Avenue North, Clinton, will be reduced to one lane for construction Beginning Tuesday, June 23, traffic on 13th Avenue North between 11th Street and 14th Street in Clinton will be reduced to one lane because of ongoing construction related to the 13th Avenue North Trail project, a news release says. This temporary lane reduction will be in effect throughout the construction period. Traffic control measures will [...]
	Free admission returns to Figge Art Museum for month of July Your free admission will get you into all four floors of the Figge as well as a full month of programs and activities for adults and children.
	Iowa soybeans blooming and corn silking behind schedule Corn and soybean growth in Iowa is slightly behind pace compared to last year and the five-year average, according to the latest crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
	Cinemark sets box-office record with 'Toy Story 5' Cinemark Holdings, Inc., one of the largest exhibition companies in the world - and with a cineplex in Davenport - has announced its all-time biggest three-day opening weekend domestic box office for a G- or PG-rated film with "Toy Story 5," a news release says. Strong carryover from recent releases like "Disclosure Day" and "Obsession" contributed to Cinemark delivering its [...]
	Moline 250 event to feature music, fireworks and family activities You can join in on the free, family-friendly festivities on July 1 & 2 which will culminate in the city's first Fourth of July fireworks show.
	Next phase of Washington Street resurfacing to begin Tuesday in Burlington Beginning Tuesday, the intersection at Fourth Street will be closed to all vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
	Illinois trailer park evacuated after home explosion early Monday One person was seriously injured after a manufactured home exploded in Dixon. Elevated gas levels prompted the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
	Iowa gubernatorial candidates appeal beyond party lines Iowa has nearly 200,000 more registered Republicans than Democrats. It’s why Democrat Rob Sand is encouraging Iowans to vote for more than just an R or a D.
	Device and Conquer: “Toy Story 5,” “The Death of Robin Hood,” and “Leviticus” Thirty-one years after the franchise's debut, Disney/Pixar's latest animated comedy adventure is unusual in at least one regard: It's the first Toy Story that might be more fun to think about, and argue about, than actually watch.
	Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to reopen after major renovation After nearly two years behind closed doors, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is preparing to welcome visitors back with a completely reimagined museum experience.
	Whitey’s hosting 40th Cones for Kids fundraiser Monday Half the sales of all cones sold Monday will benefit Bethany for Children and Families.
	Students learn hands-on electrical trade skills at summer camp program The Heavy Metal Summer Experience returned to the QC Electrical Training Center in Moline for its second year Monday offering an immersive trade experience for Quad Cities students.
	Mobile home park residents allowed to return home after evacuation for high gas levels after explosion Officials said the people who live in the Chateau Estates are allowed to return home as of around 5 p.m., according to a media release.
	Heavy rain yesterday sends us over the mark for June A complete washout from Father's Day yesterday in the Quad Cities as lots of heavy rain spanned from early in the morning to early in the evening. Rain totals from across the Quad Cities showing many areas receiving over 2 inches of rain from yesterday's showers. After that rain came down and numbers were added [...]
	COLD CASE BREAKTHROUGH: Clinton County Jane Doe identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards After 51 years, Jane Doe 1975 found in the Mississippi River in Clinton County in 1975 has been identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards of Waukegan, Illinois.
	A federal judge finds a Trump data system to verify voters is unlawful Tens of millions of voters have had their data run through the Trump administration's revamped SAVE tool. A judge just found it unlawful.
	Teen victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	Bethany for Children & Families partners with Whitey's for 'Cones for Kids' 50% of the proceeds for each scoop of ice cream bought on Monday, June 22 goes to Bethany for Children and Families.
	'Moline 250' event to be held to celebrate America's 250th anniversary The two-day event will be held July 1 and 2 with free activities for families and more.
	Bethany for Children & Families partners with Whitey's for annual 'Cones for Kids' event 50% of the proceeds for each scoop of ice cream bought on Monday, June 22 goes to Bethany for Children and Families.
	Quad Cities area's first eating disorder program launches at UnityPoint Health Robert Young Center The intensive outpatient program runs four hours a day Monday through Friday.
	Iowa State to allow alcohol sales at sporting events starting this fall Because of the policy change, fans will no longer be allowed to leave Jack Trice and re-enter the stadium during games.
	Suspect in Iowa City Pedestrian Mall shooting pleads not guilty 17-year-old Damarian Jones of Cedar Rapids faces a litany of charges, including five counts of attempted murder.
	Longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa identified after more than 50 years Jane Doe 1975 was identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards, 15, from Waukegan, Illinois, according to a media release.
	Juvenile victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	Homicide victim missing since 1975 has been identified: Clinton County Sheriff's Office A homicide victim who has been missing since 1975 has been identified, according to a news release from the Clinton County Sheriff's Office. On April 11, 1975, the Clinton County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a deceased person in the Mississippi River north of Clinton, about half a mile south of the Jackson [...]
	Illinois breaks record for number of tornadoes in one year Illinois breaks record for number of tornadoes in one year
	Longest unidentified Jane Done in Iowa identified after more than 50 years Jane Doe 1975 was identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards, 15, from Waukegan, Illinois, according to a media release.
	Government Bridge closing for roadway sealing The Rock Island Arsenal Directorate of Public Works will close both the Government Bridge and the Rock Island Viaduct to vehicle traffic on Saturday, June 27 from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. for roadway sealing. Pedestrian, railroad and river navigation will not be affected. Signs will alert and direct traffic.
	Supreme Court declines to hear Texas man's intellectual disability case in capital case The court's action means Victor Saldaño is likely to be executed even though both defense and state experts determined he was not eligible for execution under the law.
	Clock Inc. to hold special art auction fundraiser at Figge Thursday The LGBTQ+ community center Clock Inc. will hold an extra special art auction fundraiser Thursday, June 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport.
	Davenport Noon Optimist Club awards scholarships to Davenport high school students Students from all four of Davenport's high schools were recently awarded scholarships by the Davenport Noon Optimist Club. The Davenport Noon Optimist Club’s Promise Awards recognize students who exemplify the values of the Optimist Creed. Each year, three students from each of Davenport’s four high schools are chosen to receive a $1,500 scholarship based on [...]
	Magnificent Messi makes history, breaks all-time World Cup scoring record Messi scored a record-setting 17th World Cup goal in Argentina's game against Austria. And, then, he netted another goal, making him the all-time leader in World Cup tournaments (men and women).
	Why this Iowan has a state job but not the one that he planned Larry Johson failed to earn the required support in the Iowa Senate -- because of Democrats in that legislative body -- to serve as the director of the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services but will instead hold a different prominent role in the department.
	Laverne Cox wrote her memoir because 'one more human story out there can help' For more than a decade, actor Laverne Cox been one of the most visible trans women in America. But the Orange Is the New Black star says she spent most of childhood keeping herself hidden.
	Dixon, Illinois, officials give update on early morning home explosion Authorities held a press conference at noon on Monday after a home explosion injured one and prompted over a hundred evacuations.
	“Legislative Add-Ons Returning to Normal Levels” Sounds a Lot Like “Cuts” When Factoring in Inflation In response to a question last week from my associate Isabel Miller, Governor JB Pritzker said he didn’t think a group of progressive legislators could pass their progressive revenue bills through both chambers by the end of the spring session.
	Country star Ella Langley bringing sold-out tour to Quad Cities Country star Ella Langley is extending her sold-out tour to the Quad Cities.
	Clive Davis, music executive and champion of legendary pop artists, has died at 94 The record executive was instrumental in shepherding the successful careers of a number of monumental music stars, including Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen, Janis Joplin, Billy Joel and Whitney Houston.
	Investigation underway after rural Rock Falls hit-and-run leaves bicyclist seriously injured A 911 call reported the crash around 10:21 p.m. on Sunday, June 21. Authorities said it happened on U.S. Route 30 in front of Crystal Lake.
	Cyclist hurt in hit and run; Whiteside County deputies search for damaged truck Deputies are searching for a damaged Ram 1500 that left the scene after striking a cyclist on U.S. 30 Sunday morning.
	Gift of Giving - Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities In April 2026, Necker's partnered with the Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities for the Gift of Giving.
	Country star Ella Langley announces Quad Cities concert date Country star Ella Langley will perform at Vibrant Arena at The MARK in Moline on Sept. 26 as part of the newly expanded Dandelion Tour.
	Eastern Iowa Community College hires new vice chancellor of academic affairs Eastern Iowa Community Colleges will be bringing in Comanchette McBee as the new vice Chancellor of academic affairs.
	Ella Langley bringing 'Dandelion Tour' to Vibrant Arena Ella Langley has extended her sold-out “The Dandelion Tour,” adding 21 new dates to her headline arena run, including a stop at the Vibrant Arena on September 26. Kameron Marlowe and Laci Kaye Booth will be the opening acts for the Moline show. Tickets for ‘The Dandelion Tour’ will be available through a presale starting [...]
	How small businesses can lean into AI’s growth moment How small businesses can lean into AI’s growth momentAI is driving growth for small businesses and changing work at the task level. It’s leveling the playing field and opening opportunities to accelerate faster than before, but any growth moment comes with challenges. AI is transforming work, but it’s not eliminating the need to manage it. To really scale with success, small businesses need to navigate increased compliance and workforce complexities.The key to sustained AI-driven growth is to put the foundational elements in place first and avoid “quick-and-easy” fixes in the form of plug-and-play solutions that won’t cut it in the long term. Only by establishing a solid business foundation can you clear the runway for success.According to ADP’s Spring 2026 Market Pulse Survey of 2,200 HR decision makers, smaller companies are more likely to believe that the use of AI can help increase productivity and help reduce costs. However, there remains an adoption gap between small and large companies. As company size increases, so does the likelihood of using AI for payroll and HR-related tasks.Set your small business up to scaleTo leverage AI to scale, small businesses need to first consider whether their operational foundation can support the growth that’s possible. Establishing clear systems early can keep you better organized as you grow and help prevent you from potentially scaling costly errors. Set up payroll early to help keep taxes accurate, speed up future hiring, and reduce compliance risk from the start. It’s important to formalize your policies too, to help set clear expectations from the outset and to have a resource for employees as you expand your team. This foundation will help power future automation and growth.Leverage AI to grow your small businessThese five common operations demonstrate how AI can be used to support a small business’s long-term goals. Hire quickly to support growthFinding qualified candidates can be one of the most difficult aspects of growing your small business. When demand increases, the need for additional headcount can often become urgent. Leveraging AI can help make recruiting faster and more efficient. However, it’s imperative that these processes have human oversight to ensure regulatory compliance.Get people up and runningThe predictability of employee onboarding workflows makes the process a top candidate for AI. AI can help automate routine tasks and checklist items, while alerting managers and HR practitioners if a new hire misses a check-in or encounters a problem. The key to AI-driven onboarding is finding a hybrid solution that integrates automation and tasks that must be done by humans. Personalization is key too, to ensure onboarding is tailored to the roles each new employee takes with custom skills-based learning paths.Stay on top of changing regulationsCompliance requirements for AI systems will get more complex, posing potential compliance risk for small businesses. Small businesses are navigating multijurisdictional AI rules, expanding paid and protected leave laws, employee classification rules, and joint-employer regulations, among others as regulatory fragmentation increases. To prepare for this evolving AI regulatory landscape, companies should establish clear governance and ownership of AI workflows, approval processes, and escalation paths while also implementing access controls, data protections, and real-time guardrail monitoring.Create a great employee experienceAI-assisted HR support services can apply data and expertise to help answer employee questions and resolve problems faster. However, using AI to enhance employee engagement requires balancing automation of routine tasks with person-to-person contact for relationship building and individualized guidance. To be successful, AI tools for skills and culture development must be able to surface internal knowledge and resources in real time, collect and analyze employee feedback just as quickly, and identify moments that need human support.Spot workforce needs and opportunitiesAs AI transforms work at the task level, job descriptions are evolving into personalized skills inventories that support proactive workforce planning intended to make companies as agile as possible. By spotting skills gaps, small businesses can better understand staffing needs based on projects. What’s required are systems that embed AI guardrails into these workflows to support compliance complexities.Rely on trusted expertise to build a strong business foundationThe most effective way for small businesses to grow and successfully scale their core business operations is by working with partners they know and trust. AI alone can’t successfully scale your business. Build a circle of trusted advisors and rely on them for practical advice when it’s time to graduate different systems and processes to support greater demand. Managing a workforce is still a deeply nuanced, human function, no matter how quickly you scale.This story was produced by ADP and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The brand ChatGPT recommends is almost never the one advertising, Floodlight data shows The brand ChatGPT recommends is almost never the one advertising, Floodlight data showsOpenAI opened its self-serve ad platform to all advertisers in May 2026, dropping the entry point from a $200,000 managed-service minimum to open access. The early coverage was predictable: Pilot brands like Expedia, Ford, Target, and Adobe got named in headlines, the platform reportedly hit $100 million in annualized revenue within its first six weeks, and the general consensus was that inventory was filling up fast. Floodlight, a programmatic ad solutions provider, ran 550 live queries across 11 consumer product categories to see if that was actually true. Here’s what the results showed.TL;DR: 84% of the 550 queries Floodlight tested returned zero ads, but in the verticals where ads did appear, the brands claiming those slots mostly had nothing to do with the product being asked about.Testing MethodologyAll 550 prompts ran on a free-tier ChatGPT account between May 18 and June 4, 2026. Currently, OpenAI only serves ads to non-paying users, so a paid subscription would have returned zero results regardless of what was being asked. The 11 verticals tested included baby gear, baby monitors, baby carriers, stroller wagons, car seats, cribs and crib mattresses, mattresses, beach tents, dog food, arch support sneakers, as well as women's care and clean beauty. Floodlight included 50 prompts per vertical.Each vertical's prompts were written across four intent types: buying intent, brand-focused, use-case, and informational. More importantly, they were written the way a real person actually types into ChatGPT. Nobody opens ChatGPT and types "arch support sneakers." That’s how they’d use a search engine like Google. Instead, they type something like: "I've been dealing with plantar fasciitis for six months and my podiatrist told me to get better arch support, what sneakers should I be looking at?" That's the kind of prompt that got used.Each of these ads was confirmed via DOM inspection and taking a screenshot. If it didn't show up in the website’s code, it didn't count. Keep in mind that this is three weeks of data on a platform that opened to everyone about two months ago, so treat this data as a first look.84% of Queries Returned NothingOf the 550 queries, 464 returned no ad at all. That's 84.4% without a sponsored result, brand name, or anything below the answer. Instead, the platform shows ChatGPT's organic response and a blank space where an ad could have been.There are five categories that had zero ads across every single query: beach tents, dog food, arch support sneakers, women's care and clean beauty, and car seats. To put this into perspective, a user asking ChatGPT which dog food is best for a senior lab with joint issues got a thorough answer and zero ads.This same result happened for every car seat query, every beach tent query, and every clean beauty query in the set. That's five categories where no brand has claimed any ad space (yet) and where any brand that sells those products could be the first to show up in these placements.However, three categories had a bit of activity. Cribs and crib mattresses had 80% of queries claimed, mattresses came in at 38%, and baby monitors only had the brand Nanit present. Everything else was somewhere between thin and empty.The Wrong Brands Are Claiming the Right QueriesOff-Category Brands Are Showing Up on High-Intent SlotsWhen someone searches for a specific product they're ready to buy, there should be an ad from a brand that sells that product. But as of writing, that’s not the case in many categories.Instead, the ad space is getting taken up by completely unrelated brands (hotels, luggage companies, grocery delivery apps, department stores). This isn’t because they're running a genius cross-industry strategy, but simply because they showed up and nobody else did.Floodlight’s findings showed that upon searching for baby carriers, the ads that appeared were from L.L. Bean and a sporting goods store. In ChatGPT’s organic answers, it consistently recommended Ergobaby. Since they hadn’t purchased ad space, they’re giving competitors the opportunity to start showing up as suggested items.The same results happened across other products. Stroller wagon searches returned ads for Away luggage and a baby registry site. Women’s care products showed Instacart ads. And searches for baby gear showed ads for Choice Hotels, Nissan, Car and Driver.The takeaway is pretty simple: If you're not advertising on searches for your own product, someone you are in competition with or completely unrelated to your business could collect that customer instead. Floodlight The Gap Between Organic Recommendations and Paid AdsChatGPT’s organic answers consistently recommend the same brands, and these are usually the ones that have great brand recognition, are producing quality insights and editorial content and have glowing reviews:In baby carrier queries, Ergobaby came up 26 times.In arch support queries, Brooks appeared 20 times.In clean beauty queries, ILIA showed up repeatedly.These brands are earning recommendations and none of them bought the ad unit sitting directly below their own name. By ignoring paid ads, these brands are giving their competitors the opportunity to get in front of their prospective customers.So the actual experience for a shopper looks like this: They ask ChatGPT about the best baby carriers, ChatGPT says Ergobaby in its organic answer, but then the first ad they see is for L.L. Bean. Ergobaby did the hard work of optimizing their online presence and building a reputation good enough to get recommended by AI, while L.L. Bean just happened to have an ad running.Ergobaby earns the recommendation. L.L. Bean gets the ad slot beneath it. The pattern stays true across every category where off-category brands appeared. The brand ChatGPT recommends isn't the one paying to show up below it. By all available evidence, they just don't know they can. Floodlight The Advantage of Moving EarlyThe opportunity for brands to capitalize is now. Crib and baby mattress brands have started buying these ad slots, and now 80% of that space is taken. This signals that the inventory doesn't stay empty forever. It fills up the moment the right brands catch on and decide they want to show up.Brands selling products like strollers, dog food, car seats, and more haven't quite figured that out yet. So right now, the opportunity to capture intent for those queries is there for the taking. Adopting a new channel early often means lower ad costs, less competition, and cleaner data on what's actually converting before everyone else arrives to the party.For any brand that's already getting recommended by ChatGPT, the math is pretty simple. Recommended brands did the work to build something valuable enough that AI mentions you by name. But someone else is buying the ad that sits right below your name.The headlines have called ChatGPT advertising a gold rush, but three weeks of data and testing across 550 queries tell a slightly different story. Floodlight found that most categories are empty, and the brands that did show up wandered in because nobody else was there.This story was produced by Floodlight and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	1 injured, hundreds evacuated after Dixon home explosion One person was seriously injured in a manufactured home explosion in Dixon. Elevated gas levels prompted the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
	Eastern Iowa Comunity Colleges names new vice chancellor of academic affairs Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) has a new vice chancellor. EICC has named Comanchette “Camie” McBee, M.Ed., to be its next vice chancellor of academic affairs. She will start in mid-July and provide leadership for academic programs and services across all college facilities, including the Clinton, Muscatine and Scott campuses. McBee has 14 years of community college experience, including work in academic operations, [...]
	Mental health counselor charged with ethics violation The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing administers the state's Board of Nursing and Board of Behavioral Health Professionals as well as other licensing boards. (Main photo by Getty Images; logo courtesy State of Iowa)The Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals has now disclosed disciplinary charges it filed last summer against a mental health counselor. State records indicate that on July 29, 2025, the board filed charges against licensee Linda Diane Lawman of Ames, alleging she failed to comply with the American Counseling Association’s code of ethics. The board has not disclosed the manner in which Lawman is alleged to have violated the code of ethics or indicated when the alleged violation took place, although board records suggest an investigation of the matter was initiated four years ago in 2022. In 2024, Lawman’s license expired, according to board records. This week, the board’s statement of charges in the case was published for the first time by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing. Since DIAL took over responsibility for many of the state’s licensing boards in 2023, there have been ongoing issues with lengthy, unexplained delays in the public disclosure of disciplinary charges and final orders issued by the various professional licensing boards. Board records indicate Lawman practiced mental health counseling in Grundy Center “during the time period relevant” to the case. The newly published hearing notice that accompanies the statement of charges in Lawman’s case states that a hearing on the matter was to be held two weeks ago on June 1, 2026. A DIAL official said Thursday the hearing was rescheduled and is now expected to be held on July 22, 2026. The Iowa Capital Dispatch was not able to reach Lawman for comment. Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Exploring the benefits of free community college Exploring the benefits of free community collegeA good education can expand your skills and open up new career opportunities. Attending community college for free can be a huge step in the right direction for those who qualify. No matter what stage of life you’re in — whether you’re unemployed, between jobs, upskilling in your current career or about to finish high school — there are options that can help you accomplish your goals.A new educational journey begins with knowledge. Explore the Mount Wachusett Community College guide to the benefits of free community college.Key TakeawaysFree community college offers significant career advantages by providing in-demand skills and local employment opportunities.Community college education is flexible, accommodating diverse learners with jobs, families and other life commitments.Free college programs substantially reduce the financial burden of higher education and related living expenses.Choosing the right program involves considering personal and professional goals, course availability, transfer options and financial aid.The Career Advantages Of Community College Mount Wachusett Community College Exploring your community college options can open your eyes to further education and career growth. While the specifics of every student’s learning goals will vary, the following career advantages will apply to most aspiring learners.Gaining In-Demand Skills For A New CareerCommunity colleges serve 44% of the undergraduate population in the United States. Ambitious learners choose community college for a host of reasons, such as:Hands-on learning: Many institutions offer practical, hands-on learning experiences. This can typically include internships and apprenticeships.Local business relationships: Some community colleges partner with local organizations to create training that meets skills gaps in the job market.Career support and guidance: Community colleges offer support to help students with job searches, resume writing and interview preparation.Employment opportunities: The local economy benefits from a wider choice of talent, which contributes to a wider range of job opportunities.To accommodate a wider range of learners, community colleges offer a variety of program types, from full degrees to individual skill-enhancing courses.Learning New Career Skills Around Life CommitmentsOne of the main reasons community college courses attract diverse learners is the flexibility it provides. There is typically a range of part-time, evening and online classes available. This offers a more level playing field for people with jobs, children and other life commitments outside of the classroom.Affordable education and flexible pacing are ideal for busy people. It means having the freedom to enroll in one course at a time or fast-track your courses through quick-semester learning opportunities. Motivated students can complete degrees or certificates at their own pace.Creating A Stepping Stone To A Bachelor’s DegreeCommunity college is a common starting point for many learners. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be an end point. Many people choose to explore free community college courses at the beginning of a four-year degree. This can be achieved through transfer agreements, which create a pathway to higher educational qualifications.In other words, many community colleges have agreements in place for earned credit to be transferred toward a bachelor’s degree. You have the potential to save money and get started in your chosen area of study.The Financial Benefits That A Free Education ProvidesMoney is one of the biggest factors preventing people from studying. A statewide survey on college attendance in California in 2022 found that almost a third of the 75,000 respondents didn’t know whether they could afford to attend college, citing work as a priority.Free college programs help reduce these concerns and motivate learners on the path to their chosen careers.Lowering The Cost Of Higher EducationExploring the benefits of community college can turn a career goal into a smart financial choice. But even if you choose a nonfree course, community college significantly reduces student debt. According to national data, the average tuition and fees at two-year colleges are less than half those at four-year institutions.Saving Money On Living ExpensesLocal educational opportunities mean avoiding some of the essential spending that four-year university studies require. These savings include:The ability to live at home rather than pay to live in dorms on campus.An option to make lunches and go home for dinner to avoid costly meals on campus.No long-distance travel costs to get back and forth during holidays and semester breaks.Significantly fewer, if any, fees to support athletic events, student life programs or on-campus services.This combination of small and larger savings can quickly add up over the course of a study term.Earning While You’re LearningNot everyone can choose not to work while studying. Determined learners can keep their jobs to maintain a steady source of income. This means being on the path to achieving your career goals and having the financial stability to support yourself and others.The Community College ExperienceEvery student should have a positive educational experience. For some people, this may mean wanting to know more about the unique environment of a community college. There are many aspects to the community college experience, including:Smaller class sizes: Fewer students per class give you direct access to professors and academic advisors. This contributes to a more personalized learning experience.Support and well-being: Like universities, community colleges will typically provide access to resources and support systems for student mental health and well-being.Long-term support: Students can plan ahead through counseling, transfer advising and career planning resources to support any long-term goals.A diverse community: A community college classroom is diverse. Your experience will include people from all walks of life, such as veterans, working parents and high school graduates.While your studying choice is always going to be about your future, you’ll also get some priceless life experience along the way.What Costs Are Actually Covered?If you pass the eligibility requirements for free community college programs, you’ll likely be covered for all major educational costs. This includes all tuition costs, any mandatory college fees and other course-related expenses like books. These programs are commonly known as last-dollar programs, in which students are covered for any costs that state or federal grants don’t cover.In other words, qualifying students will not receive any tuition bills.What Kind Of Programs Are Eligible?While the specific subjects may vary by college, associate degree programs and career certificates are available through these programs. Some of these programs may have set minimum GPA requirements that students must meet. If you’re exploring the benefits of community college courses but are unsure of which programs qualify as free, contact the advisory team of your potential future school.The Types Of Degrees At Community CollegeWhether it’s free courses or affordable education, a community college offers a range of degree and certificate programs. Some of these options include:Associate of Science (AS): A degree in fields like business administration, science, math and computer information systems, to name a few. This kind of study is designed for transfer to a four-year university.Associate of Arts (AA): A study for students planning to transfer to a four-year university that focuses on the liberal arts, life sciences and humanities.Certificates or diplomas: A shorter program of study that provides training and upskilling for people in specific career-focused areas.The majority of subjects in these degrees provide a seamless pathway to transfer to a four-year university.Considering What You Want Out Of Your StudyAs you explore your options, it’s important to keep sight of the reason you’re considering free community college options. It’s easy to lose sight of why you’re looking into further learning. As a final checklist, ask yourself the following to ensure your path aligns perfectly with your personal and professional goals:Primary goal: Are you aiming to transfer to a four-year university, or do you want to gain skills to enter the workforce quickly?Available courses: Are the courses of genuine interest to you, and do they align with the skills you want to learn?Transferring considerations: Have you checked that the community college has strong transfer or articulation agreements with a four-year university?Schedule and flexibility: Does the class scheduling help with your life balance? Are you able to study and maintain work or family commitments?Success criteria: Does the community college have support systems in place, such as career guidance, transfer advising and tutoring?Financial aid application: Have you completed and submitted a FAFSA to potentially qualify for free tuition and financial aid?Getting confirmation on these essential points will keep you motivated and ready to study, confident that you’re on the right path for your future goals.Making The Right Choice For Your Career GoalsNo matter how many benefits and incentives are available, making the right choice will always be a personal thing. This guide provides all the information needed to make that decision to support your long-term educational and career plans. But the actual choice is all yours.While in-state community college can be free, out-of-state learners can still benefit from a cost-effective way to learn. Once you’re sure of where you want to be, it’s a matter of knowing how to apply for the financial support solutions available. This can significantly reduce the concerns and lifestyle changes that come with other educational opportunities.It’s not just about financial freedom. Taking advantage of the flexible learning and smaller class sizes that free community college provides can make the process less daunting. With a more manageable education at your disposal, you’ll be able to better plan what to do with this education and where you want it to take you in your career.This story was produced by Mount Wachusett Community College and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Survey finds 81% of customer support agents say most conversations are never reviewed Survey finds 81% of customer support agents say most conversations are never reviewedAsk a customer support agent whether quality feedback helps them get better, and most will say yes. Ask if their conversations actually get reviewed, and the answer changes.In a survey of 500 full-time customer support agents, 81% said most of their conversations are never reviewed for quality. The same agents were clear that feedback works when it reaches them: 79% said the quality assurance feedback they receive is helpful.Solidroad's State of CX 2026 report asked customer support agents about how they are trained, evaluated, and coached. The signal that runs through the report is not that feedback is broken, but that effective feedback reaches only a fraction of the work, and the gap is widest exactly where it matters most.Feedback works, but most conversations never get reviewedQuality assurance is supposed to do two things: catch problems and help agents improve. On the second count, agents agree it delivers. Although 79% say the QA feedback they get helps them improve, 81% say most of their conversations are never reviewed, so that helpful feedback lands on only a minority of interactions.The coverage numbers show how small that minority is. Just over a third of agents (37.4%) say only 0 to 10% of their interactions are reviewed, and another 43.6% say between 11 and 50% are reviewed. For most agents, quality review touches a thin, unrepresentative slice of the work they actually do.That thin slice carries a hidden cost. When feedback rests on a handful of conversations, agents cannot tell which behaviors are consistently working and which need to change. A single review reads as a one-off rather than a pattern. Over time, agents stop trusting that the score reflects their real performance, and QA loses the thing that makes it worth doing: the power to drive steady, repeatable improvement.Why review coverage stays this lowLow coverage is a capacity problem, not a problem of will. The most common way agents receive QA feedback is one-on-one coaching, named by 44.1% of agents, and it is also the format they find most useful, chosen by 51%. Personalized coaching gives an agent the context to understand why a piece of feedback matters and how to apply it in the next conversation.The catch is that coaching is manual and one-to-one. It cannot stretch to cover every interaction. The more conversations a team handles, the wider the gap grows between what gets reviewed and what gets handled, no matter how committed the QA team is.This is the limit COPC, a customer experience standards and benchmarking organization, has long flagged in contact center quality. "Typical QA programs provide a limited view into a small sample of customer transactions and do not have a measurable impact on the customer experience or key business results," COPC says.Adding more reviewers is not the answer either. As COPC explains, "Having a massive team of quality evaluators is not economically viable for contact centers and forces them to take questionable sampling approaches."Manual review cannot scale its way out of the coverage gap.Where the coverage gap actually bitesThe gap does its worst damage at the start of an agent's tenure. New agents generally feel ready for the job: 82.5% said they felt prepared when they began handling real customer interactions, largely thanks to shadowing and peer-led onboarding.Feeling prepared is not the same as being equipped. When agents named the hardest part of ramping up, the top answer was not learning the product or finding information fast. It was applying their training to real customer situations, cited by 53.3% as the toughest challenge, ahead of every other obstacle.This is where the two findings collide. The hardest moment in the job is the live, unpredictable conversation. Those same live conversations are the ones least likely to be reviewed. So the point at which an agent most needs clear, specific feedback is the point at which coverage is thinnest. Training can build confidence before an agent goes live, but only feedback on real conversations turns that early confidence into consistent quality. Without it, agents are left to calibrate on instinct, in exactly the situations the survey says they find hardest.What closing the coverage gap looks likeThe fix is not more conviction about feedback. Agents already believe in it. The fix is reach: getting clear, grounded feedback to far more conversations than a manual process can touch.That means treating review coverage as a lever for customer experience quality, not a compliance checkbox. When a team reviews broadly instead of sampling, three things change. It can see which behaviors actually drive good outcomes, coach on real patterns instead of isolated examples, and shorten the time it takes a new agent to become consistently good. A small, sampled slice of conversations cannot reveal those patterns, no matter how carefully it is scored.Approaches built for automated quality assurance review every conversation rather than a sample, which changes what QA can actually see and makes an agent's hardest moments visible instead of invisible. The data points the same direction the agents do. Feedback works, but the job now is to make it reach the work so that the gap behind the 81% finally starts to close.This story was produced by Solidroad and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	FBI report highlights rise in AI-powered scams: News 8 This Week - June 21, 2026 A new FBI report shows AI is making scams more convincing. A cybercrime expert explains the risks and how to protect yourself.
	Mobile home park evacuated for high gas levels after explosion in Dixon, IL Officials are asking residents to evacuate immediately when contacted.
	Why vulnerability matters for men’s mental health Why vulnerability matters for men’s mental healthTraditional masculinity provides a pretty narrow definition of what it means to be a man. Picture the stereotypical “macho” guy. He’s physically big, strong, and muscular. But he has a specific personality too. He’s domineering and takes charge without hesitation. He doesn’t show certain emotions, because that could signal weakness. These harmful stereotypes have made it harder for many men to be vulnerable and ask for help, Rula reports.Vulnerability is the ability to reflect the truth about yourself even if it’s uncomfortable. It means opening up as our most authentic selves and sharing our emotions, thoughts, and experiences with others. Being vulnerable isn’t always easy. However, it can be especially difficult for men due to societal messages about masculine ideals. Learning more about men and vulnerability is especially important. That’s because 65% of men Cleveland Clinic surveyed in 2023 said they’re hesitant to seek professional help for mental health concerns such as stress, anxiety and depression.Key TakeawaysVulnerability is about opening up and sharing your authentic self with other people. Many men struggle with vulnerability due to harmful societal messages about what it means to be a “real man.”Vulnerability is a trait and skill. But sadly, many boys and young men aren’t encouraged to practice it. This can make it harder to demonstrate vulnerability in adulthood.An inability to open up can pose a risk to men’s mental health. Fortunately, you can do things to increase your comfort with vulnerability, including talking to a therapist.Why men might struggle with vulnerabilityIf you’re a man who struggles with vulnerability, you’re not alone. Many factors make it hard for men to express themselves authentically. These include:Vulnerability is practiced. Vulnerability is a trait, but it’s also a skill. Unfortunately, many men were never encouraged or taught how to practice it. From childhood onward, boys are taught to avoid emotional expression.Vulnerability can be seen as feminine. Emotional vulnerability is linked to femininity in patriarchal societies. Men are often pressured to avoid anything that could be seen as feminine.Men are taught not to ask for help. Common phrases like “man up” or “take his man card away” might seem harmless at first. But their underlying message — that a man should be able to handle any hardship without straying from the male stereotype — can have serious consequences.Men might have had negative experiences in the past. Past experiences can sometimes make vulnerability a challenge. For example, maybe a man tried opening up to someone and was met with nonacceptance, like ridicule or mocking. This may reduce the likelihood that they will be vulnerable again in the future.Men may feel ashamed of their emotional challenges. They feel that they make them less of a “real man.” So they may avoid being vulnerable because they don’t want to acknowledge their perceived flaws.How showing vulnerability benefits menNo one is immune to emotional struggles. However, not being able to open up can make emotions harder to manage. National Center for Health Statistics research shows that men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. And of the 1 in 10 men who experience depression or anxiety, less than half will receive treatment. Becoming more comfortable with vulnerability can make it easier to ask for lifesaving support. But it can benefit men in other ways too.Vulnerability can help you:Foster deeper relationships with partners, friends, and family.Signal to others that it’s safe to be vulnerable with you.Experience the feeling of being loved and appreciated for who you truly are.Play an active role in dismantling the stigma that keeps many men from opening up.Live a more authentic life and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.A note on safety: If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone. Their counselors will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe.Learning to embrace emotional vulnerabilityIt may take some time to get more comfortable with vulnerability. But know that it’s achievable with some patience and practice. Here are some actionable tips that can help you get started:Start small. What’s one small personal detail you can share with someone today? For example, if a coworker expresses something you can relate to, let them know. This simple interaction allows you to open up to another person.Challenge your fears. When you think about vulnerability, what scares you? Are you worried about being rejected? What would it be like to challenge that in the safety of a strong relationship? For example, imagine telling a good friend that you’re struggling in your marriage. What do you think they’d say?Practice positive affirmations. Part of embracing vulnerability is shifting your inner dialogue. You can use affirmations like, “It takes a lot of strength to ask for help,” to remind yourself that vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness.Talk to a professional. Some therapists specialize in men’s mental health. They can help you practice vulnerability in a safe and private setting. They can also recommend complementary supports like group therapy for men.Clinician’s takeAshley Ayala, licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical reviewer, suggests, “In therapy, men can unlearn the idea that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. When men start to see vulnerability as strength, they often feel a new sense of relief and freedom to speak honestly about what they're going through.”This story was produced by Rula and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How your business can beat the summer slowdown slump How your business can beat the summer slowdown slumpA summer slowdown doesn’t have to mean lost opportunities. If your business tends to slow down when schools let out, customers travel or seasonal demand shifts, this can be a good time to focus on the parts of your business that get pushed aside during busier months.For some businesses — like tax preparation firms, business consultants, tutoring and education services, yarn and knitting shops, winter-focused retailers, and other businesses that experience seasonal shifts in demand — summer can bring fewer customers and slower sales. But it can also create space to review your insurance coverage, train employees, refresh your marketing, improve operations, and prepare for the months ahead.ERGO NEXT compiled a list of six ways to make the most of a summer slowdown and position your business for a stronger second half of the year.1. Use your time to forecast and plan for holiday salesIf you think summer is too early to start thinking about the holidays, think again. Look at your numbers from last September through January. And ask yourself these questions:Which weeks were the busiest?What services or products seemed to sell the most?When did things start to feel a bit stretched or understaffed?Take notes, see what sales or products moved best, and put some thought into how you can do more of the same when your business starts to pick up again. Think about how you can adjust your inventory, tweak your scheduling, or make a few smarter calls on staffing before you’re in the middle of the season. Making plans for production, inventory, and staffing now can help you feel more prepared when sales pick up.2. Hire and train your team for busy times aheadA summer slowdown can be a good opportunity to invest in your team. When customer demand is lighter, you have more time to recruit and train employees before business picks up again.Summer can also be a good time to find talent. In 2025, the youth labor force grew by about 1.9 million workers between April and July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as students and recent graduates entered the job market. If you’ve been thinking about adding employees, this may be a good time to start looking.Even if you aren’t hiring right now, consider using the extra time to help your current employees build skills and prepare for busier months. Replacing an employee can range from 50% to 200% of that person’s annual salary depending on their level, according to research cited by SHRM, making retention and training worthwhile investments in your business growth.A few areas worth focusing on include:Training on core business systems. Make sure employees are comfortable using your point of sale, booking, scheduling, or inventory management tools.Review day-to-day processes. Walk through common tasks and identify areas where mistakes, delays, or confusion occur.Improve communication. Revisit how your team stays in touch, handles customer requests, and communicates throughout the day.Refresh safety training. Review equipment use, heat safety, and any job-specific risks, especially for hands-on or outdoor work.Clarify roles and responsibilities. Make sure everyone knows their role, what they’re responsible for, and who to go to with questions.A little extra training now can pay off later when business picks up and your team has less time to learn on the fly.3. Confirm your business insurance still has you coveredGive your business insurance coverage its annual review. Not just because your business needs may have changed, but because it’s easier to catch gaps when you’re not in the middle of crunch time.A lot of owners aren’t totally sure where they stand — about 90% say they’re not confident they’re adequately insured, according to a 2024 NEXT Insurance survey. A quick review of your policies can help you make sure your coverage still fits your business and the work you actually do.If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few questions to think about as you review your coverage:Has your team changed? If you’ve hired employees, brought on part-time help, or changed the type of work employees do day to day, review your workers’ compensation coverage. Annual workers’ comp audits or reconciliations often look at payroll and job classifications, so it’s important that your policy reflects both how many people work for you and the job they’re actually doing.Does your coverage match how you operate? If you’ve added services, changed locations, started selling online, or taken on different types of jobs, your coverage may need to change, too.Is your business gear, tools, and equipment covered? General liability insurance typically doesn’t cover your own business property. If you need help protecting inventory, tools, equipment, or a physical workspace, commercial property insurance may be a coverage you’d want to add. It can also help cover lost business income in certain covered situations. If you regularly take tools or equipment to jobsites, tools and equipment coverage could help protect those items while they’re away from your primary business location.Do you sell products, even occasionally? If you sell products in-store, online, or at pop-ups, make sure you have product liability insurance coverage. It doesn’t cover your inventory itself, but it can help protect your business if a product you sell injures someone or causes property damage, even if product sales are only a small part of your business.Are you driving for work more often? If you or your team use vehicles for business, commercial auto coverage may make sense or need an update.Will you need to share proof of insurance? New clients, landlords, vendors, or contracts may require certificates of insurance (COIs), or proof of your coverage, and how much you have. It helps to know how to get or access a COI before you need one.4. Pressure test your business operationsWhen business is busy, you find ways to work around small problems. But maybe you know your scheduling system is clunky. Maybe your inventory tracking isn’t quite where it should be. A slower month gives you a chance to examine your processes and fix the workflows that everyone complains about but no one has time to fix.Check these common pressure points for resource-strapped small business owners:Are your scheduling, booking, or POS systems still working for you? If your team is relying on work-arounds or manual processes, it may be time for an upgrade.Are you carrying the right amount of inventory or offering the right services? Review what’s selling and whether you can free up cash by reducing slow-moving stock. If you’re a service business, evaluate your service offerings, identify what’s most profitable, and consider whether adjustments could better meet customer demand.Do you have all the tools and equipment you need? This can be a good time to repair, replace, or maintain equipment before it becomes a problem later.Are there parts of your workflow that regularly cause delays? Look for repetitive tasks, bottlenecks, or processes that could be simplified.Are your vendor relationships still working well? Check in with suppliers, review pricing with competitors, and make sure you’re prepared for future demand.5. When’s the last time you thought about workplace safety? Do it now.Safety often falls into the “we’ll get to it later” category. The problem is that “later” never happens when business is busy. Now might be the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at your safety practices, inspect equipment, and make sure your team knows what to do if something goes wrong.Consider using your extra time to:Inspect equipment and workspaces. Look for worn tools, damaged equipment, trip hazards, blocked exits, or anything else that could create safety issues later.Review emergency procedures. Make sure employees know what to do in the event of an injury, severe weather, equipment failure, or other emergency.Update or create standard operating procedures (SOPs). Documenting routine processes can improve consistency and reduce mistakes when business picks up again.Refresh employee training. Review equipment use, workplace safety practices, and any job-specific risks your team may encounter.Prepare for seasonal weather conditions. Review safety procedures related to the weather risks your employees are most likely to face, whether that means heat and sun exposure, severe storms, cold temperatures, snow, ice, or other seasonal hazards.You don’t need a major safety overhaul. Even a few small improvements now can help create a safer workplace and prevent bigger problems down the road.6. Work on your marketing plan — or try something newQuieter work days can give you the opportunity to experiment, reconnect with customers, and find new ways to bring people through the door.You don’t need a massive marketing budget. A few focused efforts can help keep your business visible and generate future demand.Consider these ideas:Refresh your online presence. Update your website, Google Business Profile, social channels, and online directories so customers can easily find accurate hours, contact information, products, and services.Host an event or workshop. A yarn store might offer a beginner knitting class. A retailer could host a product demonstration or customer appreciation event. Even a small gathering can help build community and create repeat customers.Partner with neighboring businesses. Team up on a local promotion, sidewalk sale, or community event. Cross-promotions can help introduce your business to new customers without a significant investment.Reconnect with past customers. Send an email or offer a special promotion to remind people you’re there. Existing customers are often easier to win back than new ones.Show what you’ve been working on. Share photos, customer success stories, new products, or behind-the-scenes content. People are more likely to buy from businesses they feel connected to.Test a new idea. Consider introducing a new service, product bundle, loyalty program, or seasonal promotion while you have time to measure results and make adjustments.A slower season doesn’t have to mean standing still. Even a few small marketing experiments can help build momentum and uncover new opportunities for growth.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Explosion reported at Dixon manufactured home park One person was transported to a hospital after a reported explosion in a manufactured home community in Dixon this morning. A news release from the City of Dixon said firefighters were called to the 1500 block of Estates Road in Chateau Estates on June 22 at about 6 a.m. for a reported explosion involving a [...]
	2 students in custody after shooting at high school in Philippines kills 3 An investigation is underway to determine the cause. Police said the suspects claimed they were bullied at school.
	Where real estate investors are headed in 2026: 10 under-the-radar cities worth watching Where real estate investors are headed in 2026: 10 under-the-radar cities worth watchingThe “hot” and “trendy” cities that consistently generate the most noise often carry enormous premiums built on amenities that residents might only use a small fraction of the time. For rental housing investors, those premiums compress returns before the first tenant even moves in.The smarter play is finding cities where people genuinely want to put down roots and where the housing market hasn’t fully caught up to that reality yet. These are cities that people want to live in because of good jobs, decent schools, ample social opportunities, and the ability to build a nice life.How can investors identify these types of underrated cities? Look for markets where residents can comfortably spend less than 30% of their income on housing; where the job market is stable and diversified; where crime rates fall below the national median; where there are enough restaurants, live music, cultural anchors, and outdoor options for residents to enjoy in their free time; and where population trends confirm that people are choosing to move there and stay.Using rent growth, vacancy rates, inventory, and migration data from ResiClub, alongside quality-of-life research, RentRedi looked at 10 metro areas in the U.S. that deliver on all of those counts and are markets worth looking into.1. Grand Rapids, MichiganLinkedIn named Grand Rapids the No. 1 U.S. metro for jobs in 2025, with manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services leading hiring. The area added 2,000 positions that year and is attracting 25-to-34-year-olds at a higher rate than the entire state of Michigan or the national average. The downtown has a real identity: a dense restaurant and brewery scene that earned it the Beer City USA designation, above-average schools, and an active arts calendar. Inventory sits at 3.50 homes per 1,000 households, flat year-over-year (YoY) as demand absorbs supply as fast as it arrives. Rent is up 4.1% since last year, and net migration increased by 7,585, then 10,335, then 7,653 residents over the past three years.2. Reno, NevadaNevada’s lack of state income tax has attracted Tesla’s Gigafactory, Apple data centers, and advanced manufacturing, turning Reno into a legitimate tech and industrial hub. Lake Tahoe is 30 miles west, and downtown has a music and arts scene anchored by the University of Nevada. Inventory dropped 1.50 homes per 1,000 households over the past year, from 7.33 to 5.83, and the migration rate has accelerated three years running with 16,496 net new arrivals during that time period. Rent is also up 7% YoY.3. Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, New Jersey/PennsylvaniaThe Lehigh Valley ranked No. 1 nationally among midsize markets for corporate facility projects in 2025, for the second consecutive year, recording a $57.3 billion GDP in 2024spanning healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and professional services. This metro area is centrally located: 60 miles north of Philadelphia, and 90 miles west of New York City. Bethlehem ranks highly for education, amenities, and safety, and Allentown’s downtown revival won two 2025 Urban Land Institute Awards. The area’s cost of living runs well below the Northeast corridor average. Inventory sits at 3.48 homes per 1,000 households, and migration patterns show that the area has added 16,243 new residents over the past three years. School quality varies, as the suburban corridor consistently outperforms Allentown city schools.4. Clovis-Fresno, CaliforniaFor investors looking for entry into California’s housing market, the Clovis suburb of Fresno may be the best shot. Home prices and cost of living run well below the California average, keeping acquisition costs low enough to support positive cash flow. The greater Fresno metro area has added 25,136 net new residents over three consecutive years, inventory sits at 5.38 homes per 1,000 households, and rent is up 2.9%. Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and the San Francisco Bay Area are all within day-trip range, and the region has a diverse food scene rooted in its agricultural heritage. One distinction that matters: the quality-of-life case is strongest in Clovis, which has a crime rate well below the national average and some of the best-rated schools in California. This is not the case in Fresno proper.5. Fargo, North DakotaMicrosoft has one of its largest U.S. employment bases in Fargo, and the local job market spans healthcare, bioscience, ag-tech, manufacturing, logistics, and software. Unemployment sits at 2.6%, far below the national average of 4.3%. North Dakota State University provides a college-town energy with live music, brewpubs, and a downtown scene that surprises most first-time visitors. WalletHub ranks Fargo among the most affordable cities for renters in the country. Inventory dropped 1.46 homes per 1,000 households over the past year and currently sits at 6.33. The three year net migration is plus 10,106 residents, and rent is up 9.8%. The biggest caveat: the winters are harsh, but the combination of job security, low costs, and livability is the trade-off.6. Sioux Falls, South DakotaSouth Dakota has no income tax and no corporate tax, and Sioux Falls has built a stable economy around healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing. Niche gives it an A- overall and ranks it the top South Dakota city for jobs, healthcare, and cultural amenities. WalletHub found residents spend about 16.4% of income on rent, second lowest nationally, and placed it among the top 40 safest cities in America. More than 80 parks, 30 miles of bike paths, and a downtown district with Broadway touring shows make up the social scene. With a three-year positive migration rate of +7.69 per 1,000 that added 15,841 residents since 2023, Sioux Falls is trending up for population growth. Inventory sits at 9.94 homes per 1,000 households, with demand keeping pace and rent rising 4.5% since last year.7. Manchester-Nashua, New HampshireRecently named the hottest housing market in the U.S., this duo combines Manchester’s strong economy anchored by healthcare, education, and technology with Nashua’s commuter community for the greater Boston area, which has significantly higher median home prices. The area boasts a lower unemployment rate than the national average and attracts a high-earning demographic of young working professionals who provide a stable source of rental cash flow. Over the past three years, the metro has added 7,086 net new residents. Inventory sits at just 2.73 homes per 1,000 households (one of the tightest markets in the Northeast), and rent is up 2.8%. Although the cost of living runs high compared to the national average, New Hampshire has no state income tax and no sales tax.8. Staunton-Waynesboro, VirginiaTucked into the stunning Shenandoah Valley at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Staunton-Waynesboro is a lifestyle market with investment upside attached. Its cost of living and violent crime sit far below U.S. national averages, and the American Shakespeare Center, Mary Baldwin University, and Shenandoah National Park give the area cultural and recreational depth. A new 170-acre industrial park is under development on the I-81 corridor. The migration rate of +10.86 per 1,000 residents is the highest in this list, and has been consistent across three years. Inventory has tightened marginally, sitting at 4.75 homes per 1,000 households, and rent is up 5.4%. The area’s proximity to Shenandoah National Park also supports short-term rental demand.9. Abilene, TexasOne of the fastest growing areas in the country, Abilene’s inventory dropped off a cliff from 10.17 to 4.66 homes per 1,000 households over the past year, a decline of 5.51 and the sharpest tightening in the ResiClub dataset. Rent is up a whopping 36.8%, driven largely by construction workers arriving to build the Stargate AI data center. The underlying market was growing even before that, with net migration of 2,544, then 1,226, then 1,710 new residents across three years. Home prices run about 43% below the national average, cost of living is low, and the violent crime rate is 21% below the national figure. The economy spans manufacturing, wind energy, aerospace, healthcare, and Dyess Air Force Base, not to mention four universities. The Stargate effect on rents warrants a watchful eye as construction paces downward, and it remains to be seen whether the influx of workers is temporary or if they will stay long-term.10. Spokane, WashingtonSpokane offers Pacific Northwest geography without Seattle’s cost of living, which runs considerably above the national average compared to Spokane, which sits slightly below. Washington has no state income tax. Health and social assistance jobs have grown recently, providing stability if not the diversification of larger metros. Net migration has been consistent: 3,488, then 3,293, then 3,349 new residents over three years. Inventory is rising at 8.61 homes per 1,000 households, up 1.47, but the steady inflow suggests demand is absorbing the new supply. Spokane’s city council approved a Plan Spokane 2026 blueprint for infrastructure to support an anticipated 20,000 new residents over the next 20 years.What the data reflectsAfter a cautious 2025, when 55% of rental property owners made no purchases at all, RentRedi’s Q1 2026 Rental Investing Sentiment Survey of 884 landlords found that 51% plan to buy one or two properties this year. The same survey found 54% cite rising costs as their primary challenge. Buying into a market where entry prices run 30% to 43% below the national average improves potential appreciation and protects margins from the start.At the national level, Chandan Economics and RentRedi’s May 2026 Independent Landlord Rental Performance Report, which tracks on-time payments across more than 63,000 independently managed units, shows 84.5% of rents paid on time in May, up from a September 2025 low, with a full-payment forecast of 97.1%. That recovery is real but uneven by region. Markets where residents aren’t financially stretched by housing costs tend to produce more reliable payment behavior.Managing properties in emerging marketsFor landlords expanding into a new city, especially one outside their home region, operational efficiency is a real competitive advantage. RentRedi’s Q1 2026 survey also found that time commitment ranked as the second-biggest barrier to growth for rental investors, behind only rising costs, a gap that widens when managing properties remotely.All inventory and migration data is from ResiClub: Inventory figures reflect May 2026 vs. May 2025 (homes per 1,000 households). Rent growth figures reflect year-over-year change as of March 2026. Migration figures reflect net domestic migration counts and rates for the July 2024 to July 2025 period. Rent growth and vacancy data are also from ResiClub. On-time payment data is from Chandan Economics and RentRedi’s Independent Landlord Rental Performance Report, May 2026 (63,038 units). Survey data comes from RentRedi’s Q1 2026 Rental Investing Sentiment Survey (884 respondents) and RentRedi’s 2025 Real Estate Investment Trends Survey (3,749 respondents).This story was produced by RentRedi and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Planning a vacation? Travel scammers may already be watching Planning a vacation? Travel scammers may already be watchingTravel scams are a fast-growing type of fraud currently affecting travelers worldwide, with online retailer Booking.com reporting an up to 900% increase in fraudulent listings between 2023 and 2024.Unlike other scams that can be a shot in the dark, travel scams are becoming more targeted than ever. Scammers rely on sophisticated data scraping methods that allow them to tailor their bait to the victim’s personal interests. These methods, alongside the rise of AI-generated content that looks quite convincing, create the perfect storm, leading to higher chances of trapping the victims.PeopleFinders created this guide to boost your chances of spotting potential travel scams, and added some cybersecurity tips to protect yourself against intruders who steal your data for nefarious reasons.The Digital Footprint That Predicts Your Next VacationYou might have heard the term “algorithm” thrown around regarding how websites and apps show you their content. It simply is a series of predictions based on the type of content you usually interact with, which creates a log of data about your age, gender and sexuality, interests, hobbies, and location of residence.The algorithm is usually created by a service you use or a website you frequently visit to cater to your priorities and give you the ads you’re more likely to interact with. Some apps and websites also ask for permission to monitor your internet use elsewhere to tune the algorithm to your likes and dislikes.Things like your search history, posts mentioning travel on your social media profiles, and the cookies stored on your devices can paint a pretty accurate picture of your travel plans.How Scammers Target Travelers: From Loyalty Breaches to Ghost ListingsScammers always jump on cutting-edge technology to get their way, which means their methods are a step ahead of what regular users are familiar with. The following are some common ways travelers might get scammed.Loyalty Program ExploitationSome websites and apps that give you a service pertaining to travel (like accommodation booking or travel planning) have loyalty programs that store a bunch of your information. If the website’s data gets stolen, logs containing your travel preferences and priorities fall into the wrong hands.The hackers stealing the data usually sell it to someone who wants to target the victims of the data breach with a hyper-targeted scam, and travel scams are usually the perfect bait.Hyper-Targeted Phishing SchemesIf your contact information becomes available to scammers, you might start receiving emails, text messages, or even automated calls advertising free or super-cheap vacations.These scams aim to trick you into submitting sensitive financial information, like credit card information, so they can have access to your money. The method of contact doesn’t matter, but the way they reach out is usually personalized with your name to add legitimacy.Fraudulent Rental ListingsIf something looks too good to be true, especially when it comes to travel, it probably is. Aside from listings for rental places that don’t exist in real life, you might also run into AI-enhanced images of suboptimal rental properties with super low prices, or pay for a short-term rental, like an Airbnb, that someone else has already booked at the same time.This is one of the most common types of travel scams worldwide. It’s also is particularly damaging, costing the victim the entire amount they sank into paying for the fraudulent accommodation, airfare, and then the replacement rental, where they’ll actually stay.Reclaiming Control of Your Personal Travel DataProtecting yourself from potential travel scams requires applying a few extra layers of security to your online presence. Here are a few tips to stay on the safe side:Obfuscate travel intent. You can do this by creating burner email addresses to sign up for travel services, using “incognito mode” on your browser while searching your destination, and using private search engines that don’t track your activity.Delete unused loyalty accounts. These accounts, whether for an airline or hotel chain, can be the gateway to stealing your data because they’re not very secure. Track down all your accounts and delete them, even if they’ve been dormant for a while.Conduct a prebooking security check. Even if you trust the website you’re using to make bookings for your next stay, you could receive phishing emails that match the official email used by the website. You should do a reverse email search for each confirmation email you receive to make sure you’re on the right track before you share any sensitive financial information. You can also use a reverse phone lookup if they’re calling you directly.Practice Smart Browsing to Ensure Safe TravelsTravel scammers are joining forces with hackers, data brokers, and AI to create some of the most legitimate-looking targeted ads and emails. Even though the most experienced users can fall for these traps, being vigilant and double-checking each step can go a long way in preventing scams.Keeping an eye out for unused loyalty accounts, using private browsing, and checking every email for legitimacy can help protect your financial and personal information even as these dangers spread.This story was produced by PeopleFinders and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	QR codes are helping transit systems adapt without rebuilding infrastructure QR codes are helping transit systems adapt without rebuilding infrastructureThe passenger information systems market is experiencing unprecedented growth, expanding from $29.5 billion in 2023 to an expected $90.8 billion by 2032, according to a 2023 SNS Insider forecast. Despite this massive investment, transit systems worldwide still struggle with the same fundamental challenge: static infrastructure serving dynamic passengers.Signs and printed schedules rarely change, yet commuters need to adjust their routes in real-time, responding to delays, diversions, and crowd flows fast. Even the digital tools (apps, announcements, boards) meant to help are struggling to keep pace.QR Codes offer a simple alternative. A QR Code placed on a platform can deliver the exact information a rider needs in that moment, without friction or hardware upgrades. With the right placement, you can turn existing infrastructure into a flexible digital layer that keeps up with commuters.In this article, Uniqode examines how QR Codes can turn existing transit infrastructure into a more adaptable network.The distribution problem in transit informationOnce a commuter is already in motion, the challenge shifts from generating information to ensuring it reaches them at the exact moment they need it.Here’s where the gap shows up:Commuters who aren’t in the system daily (such as tourists, visitors, or occasional commuters) often lack established habits and tools, resulting in them missing updates entirely.Static signage can’t react to small, rapid changes, such as diversions, short delays, or platform swaps.Staff support can thin out during peak hours or disruptions, leaving commuters to figure things out on their own.The result is a distribution problem: Real-time updates exist, but they don’t consistently reach commuters when they need them most.The impact is measurable: SNS Insider’s report also found that over 80% of commuters report feeling more confident in their travel plans when provided with real-time information. Yet most transit systems struggle to deliver this information cost-effectively at scale.QR Codes as a flexible digital layerDigital transformation in transit doesn’t always require new hardware. QR Codes provide a way to add real-time digital services to physical infrastructure without altering the infrastructure itself.The contrast in implementation approaches is stark: An industry analysis of Cubic Corporation’s Umo platform estimates a roughly $30 million investment to support 900 buses across 30 transit systems in 2022, whereas QR Code implementations can cover entire networks without incurring per-vehicle hardware costs.Let’s look at some practical applications of QR Codes tailored to real operational needs.Real-time movement guidanceCommuters make decisions in seconds. QR Codes help surface real-time movement data exactly where those decisions happen. For instance:Next arrivals, delays, platform shifts: Place QR Codes on pillars, screen casings, elevator railings, and staircase landings. A commuter waiting on a crowded platform can scan once and see whether they should stay, move, or switch routes, similar to how airport travelers scan QR Codes at gate screens for instant updates.Localized direction at high-traffic nodes: At choke points, such as escalator exits or interchange corridors, passengers often pause due to uncertainty and confusion. A QR Code here can open a station-specific layout, showing the fastest path to lines, exits, or less crowded waiting zones.Ticketing and fare accessA 2021 study sponsored by the National Institute for Transportation and Communities found that around 30% of transit riders still relied heavily on paying cash when they boarded buses, which leads to longer queues. Add that to fare confusion, and you have slow boarding and an increasing staff workload.QR Codes can enable commuters to complete payment tasks without queuing or navigating a complex app.Here’s how you can implement this:Buy or top-up passes: A QR Code on turnstiles or shelter glass can lead directly to a secure top-up flow. This reduces cash handling and kiosk congestion.Instant access to pricing information: Many commuters want to check fares before they travel, but often do not know the cost until they reach the station or board. A QR Code at station entrances or inside vehicles can provide immediate access to current pricing, fare options, and payment methods before they travel.Alerts and safety informationTransit systems can use QR Codes to keep commuters oriented during unplanned events.For example:Diversions, construction, and weather-related changes: QR Codes on temporary barricades or construction fencing can direct users to updated walking paths, shuttle replacements, or alternative platforms.Emergency instructions at the commuter’s pace: Instead of relying solely on loudspeakers, QR Codes inside vehicles and stations can link to evacuation steps, multilingual safety videos, or incident reporting forms so transit riders can follow along without panic.Did you know? A 2024 Asahi Shimbun report described how a Tokyo transportation engineer used QR Codes to create a safety system while cutting costs by 99.9%.When the Tokyo Metropolitan Government faced a $13.5 million bill to install radio systems for platform safety gates on the Asakusa subway line, engineer Seiji Okamoto proposed using QR Codes instead.The solution uses QR Code stickers on train doors that cameras scan to synchronize platform gates with train doors. The total cost for QR Code implementation: just $2.7 million. The technology now operates across Tokyo's subway system and has been adopted by other railway companies across Japan, all without licensing fees.Multilingual and accessible supportCities with international visitors or diverse communities often struggle to communicate consistently. QR Codes provide on-demand clarity through:Instant translations and route explanations: A QR Code on fare machines or concourse signage can offer supported languages without cluttering physical space.Step-free routes and accessibility tools: Placed near elevators, escalators, or tactile surfaces, QR Codes can show accessible pathways, lift outages, or allow users to request assistance directly, similar to how accessibility zones in airports use QR Codes to guide passengers through mobility services.Beyond the stationThe commuter's journey doesn’t start at the platform, and it doesn’t end there either. QR Codes extend guidance into the first and last-mile movement.For example:Bike docks, shuttles, walking paths: A QR Code at transit exits can show commuters what’s immediately available, like nearby bike docks, walking routes to popular destinations, or shuttle schedules.Intermodal connections: At interchange nodes, QR Codes can display how to transition smoothly between rail, bus, ferry, or micromobility.The infrastructure advantage: Every surface becomes usefulQR Codes work best when they work with the infrastructure that commuters already interact with. Instead of adding new equipment or finding space for more screens, agencies can turn familiar surfaces into small digital touchpoints that support commuters throughout the network.Activates existing assetsTurnstiles, shelters, pillars, benches, seat backs, vehicle windows, and even temporary barriers are all surfaces commuters naturally look at or touch, and can function as real-time information points. QR Codes enable each one to share helpful information without altering the physical layout of a station or vehicle.Reduces hesitation and eases crowd flowWhen transit riders know exactly where to go or what’s happening next, they stop pausing in circulation areas. QR Codes placed at natural decision points like platform entrances, escalator exits, and interchange corridors help reduce clustering, improve wayfinding, and keep movement smooth during busy periods.Allows fast updates without replacing physical materialsBecause with dynamic QR Codes, agencies can update what commuters see instantly without reprinting maps, replacing signs, or dispatching staff. It doesn’t matter if it’s a temporary diversion, a construction detour, or a short-term service change; updates go live the moment operations publish them.A more adaptive transit experienceResponsive transit systems are designed to make everyday commuter interactions as clear and easy as possible. As agencies look for practical ways to modernize service, the real shift is moving guidance and information closer to the commuter.QR Codes offer agencies a lightweight way to support transit riders throughout their journey, adding small moments of clarity that accumulate across the entire travel network.This story was produced by Uniqode and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	First Davenport Tattoo Fest brings more than 200 artists to RiverCenter Artists from across the country gathered this weekend for the city's first Tattoo Fest, turning the RiverCenter into a showcase of art and competition.
	Healthcare Careers: A Pathway to Success for Kansas City Professionals (NAPSI)—U.S. workers are facing a tough job market for entry-level white-collar roles—yet some of the fastest-growing, most upwardly mobile careers remain widely overlooked. Consider this: Healthcare provides in-demand jobs students can prepare for through shorter, career-aligned training programs. Nurses and doctors tend to be the first roles that come to mind when thinking of healthcare. But there are several pathways into healthcare, including roles that many people have never heard of. For example, at Concorde Career Colleges’ Kansas City Campus, students are preparing for a variety of rewarding healthcare roles. Whether you’re looking for your next step after high school or you’re mid-career and looking for a change, healthcare is worth exploring, especially if you want to make a difference in your own neighborhood. “We’re hearing from students that they want to get their training done quickly and then get into the workforce to start working in a field that is in demand,” said Dr. Amanda Oppel, President of Concorde Career College–Kansas City. “Healthcare roles require hands-on skills that are harder to automate than typical office jobs. Whether taking vitals in a clinic, or assisting with surgery in the hospital, there’s always going to be a need for healthcare workers.” Healthcare Careers You Can Start Sooner Than You May Think Here are two examples of healthcare roles students prepare for at the Concorde Career College–Kansas City campus: 1) Radiologic Technologist What They Do: As a Radiologic Technologist, you’ll perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays. A Radiologic Technologist works with physicians in hospitals, healthcare facilities, local medical centers, and imaging centers. Who is a Good Fit: This program is very competitive and a good fit for focused students with an interest in math and science who want to make a difference in patients’ lives. People with strong interpersonal skills, patience, and attention to detail are a good fit for these roles. Job Outlook: Nationwide, overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. Locally in Missouri, projected growth for Radiologic Technologists is 8%. Course Work: Course work emphasizes skills directly transferable to a real-world work setting including topics such as: anatomy and physiology, patient care in radiology, and advanced imaging. After graduation, students are prepared to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination to become Registered Technologists in Radiography. How to Get Started: Concorde can help you take the first step in realizing your career aspirations in the diagnostic health care field as a radiologic technologist. An accelerated associate degree can be completed in as little as 20 months. 2) Surgical Technologist What They Do: Surgical Technology is an exciting field where you get to work alongside surgeons, physicians, nurses, anesthesiologists and other healthcare professionals. As a Surgical Technologist, you’ll help prepare operating rooms, equipment, and assist medical professionals during surgeries. Surgical Techs keep the operating room safe and organized. They help ensure procedures go efficiently and effectively. Professionals in this field: Prepare patients for procedures and care for them post-surgery Sterilize and manage supplies, instruments, equipment and facilities Assist surgeons during procedures Who is a Good Fit: Someone who likes organization, works quickly, and is focused. This role is good for someone who wants flexibility and opportunities to travel. Job Outlook: Nationwide, overall employment of surgical assistants and technologists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Locally, in Missouri, projected job growth for surgical technologists is 9% (from 2022 to 2032). Course Work: Concorde puts you in the center of the surgical tech field through engaging coursework and hands-on learning experiences that prepare you for real-world work settings. You’ll complete 74 credit hours and 570 clinical hours to prepare for this field. How to Get Started: Concorde can help you take the first step in realizing your career aspirations through an associate degree. The Surgical Technology program can be completed in as little as 17 months. Funding Your Education Funding options for students who want healthcare careers include loans, grants, and other types of financial aid for those who qualify. Some sample grants include: Healthcare Demand Grant (amount varies per program): The Healthcare Demand Grant is designed to assist new, enrolling students pursuing education in a healthcare program. No application process. All newly enrolled students are reviewed for eligibility. Previous Education Grant (up to $4,000 for Surgical Technology): The Previous Education Grant is designed to assist new, enrolling students pursuing education in a healthcare program who have previously graduated from an accredited post-secondary institution with an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree. Learn More To learn more about these programs and others offered at Concorde Career College-Kansas City, visit https://www.concorde.edu/campus/kansas-city-missouri. 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	Supreme Court allows a ruling that ends a tool to protect minority voters in 7 states The Supreme Court has left in place a ruling that strikes down a key tool for enforcing Voting Rights Act protections for voters with a disability or an inability to read or write in seven states.
	The surprising climate fix that Democrats and Republicans both love The surprising climate fix that Democrats and Republicans both loveDemocrats and Republicans agree on virtually nothing at this point, except the desperate need to build more housing in the United States. Depending on your viewpoint, the country needs new domiciles because it puts people to work and stimulates local economies, or because it creates affordable homes and drives down housing costs, thus reducing homelessness. Affordability, including in housing, is now one of the biggest political issues in America.Neither party, though, is talking about the secret superpower of new apartment buildings: They’re much better for the planet than constructing single-family homes. According to a new report, these units are “an almost automatic form of building decarbonization,” because three-quarters of new apartments are heated electrically. That means they can run on rooftop solar panels or tap into grids humming with clean energy, instead of burning planet-warming natural gas in furnaces or boilers.While the Trump administration and the Republican Party at large try to roll back as much climate progress as they can, they’re inadvertently bolstering that progress by calling for new construction. Deep-red Montana, for instance, recently passed a flurry of bills to get more multifamily housing built. “Apartments are the climate solution hiding in plain sight,” said Alan Durning, executive director of the nonprofit Sightline Institute, which authored the report.Grist examined how the construction of more apartment buildings would be a climate-friendly way to address the nation’s housing needs.Nothing against single-family homes, but apartment buildings and condos are much more efficient for a number of reasons. For one, residents share walls, floors, and ceilings with their neighbors, surrounding them with excellent insulation. Secondly, the square footage of each unit tends to be smaller than detached homes, so there’s less air to manage. Accordingly, it takes less energy to climate-control apartment units and keep people comfortable: The typical resident of a downtown high-rise emits one-third as much greenhouse gases as a resident of a detached house in the suburbs.Because of this inherent efficiency, apartment builders have for decades opted to install what’s called electric resistance heating, like baseboard heaters, instead of gas furnaces. That’s because wiring them up is cheaper than piping in all that methane. “If I am building something with the intention of renting it, I really want to minimize my upfront costs,” said Amanda D. Smith, senior scientist at the climate solutions nonprofit Project Drawdown, who studies the built environment but wasn’t involved in the new report. “Often electric water heaters and electric heaters for space heating make sense from that perspective.”Economic forces, then, have long encouraged the adoption of such systems: 68% of apartments built since the early 1970s have been heated with electricity, the report notes. Half a century ago, no one was campaigning to decarbonize buildings to fight climate change — going electric was just the better option. Today, if you live in an apartment, you’re 60% more likely to be all-electric than your neighbor living in a house.And apartments can get even greener. Heat pumps — which move warmth from outdoor air inside, instead of generating it like a gas furnace does — are around three times more efficient than space heaters. Over the past few decades, the technology has gotten more powerful, capable of extracting heat from even freezing outdoor air. That’s helped heat pumps proliferate across even the chilliest climes: Maine installed 100,000 of the appliances two years ahead of schedule, and almost two-thirds of households in Norway use them. Heat pumps are increasingly popping up in American apartment buildings, too: While quite rare in the decades after the 1950s, heat pumps have been incorporated into 18% of these structures in the Northwest since 2010, the report notes. (Overall, heat pumps have outsold gas furnaces in the U.S. for several years now.)While traditional electric heat pumps work like air conditioners, in that you need an outdoor unit that connects to an indoor one, new varieties are easier to incorporate into apartments and condos. One from a company called Gradient fits like a saddle over a window sill and plugs into a regular outlet, with installation taking less than a half hour. (Think of it like those old-school AC units jutting out of city apartment windows, only much cooler looking.) Another launching this winter combines the two units into one attached to an interior wall, where it exchanges air with the outside. “Making retrofits simpler will be a game-changer,” Smith said.If new buildings in hotter parts of the U.S. rely upon gas heating, they’d still need an air conditioning system. The beauty of a heat pump is that it can reverse in the summer to fill a home with cool air. As temperatures rise across the country, heat pumps will not only work more efficiently than space heaters and gas furnaces to warm apartments, but to provide invaluable cooling to keep people healthy. Already in the U.S., heat kills more people every year than all other forms of extreme weather combined.Making a building’s heating fully electric encourages the adoption of another appliance critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions: the induction stove. “If you’re building a building and you’re heating and cooling with heat pumps, it doesn’t really make sense to hook it up to the gas system to pipe a tiny bit of gas in for people to cook on their gas stoves a couple of times a week,” said Matt Casale, managing director of states and regions at the nonprofit Building Decarbonization Coalition, which wasn’t involved in the report.All this electrification could potentially slot into a burgeoning technology known as networked geothermal. Instead of a building’s heat pump using outdoor air, it uses liquid pumping underground. Because the earth’s temperature remains a more consistent temperature year-round than the air, these heat pumps are even more efficient at warming a space. If all of an area’s buildings — apartments or otherwise — are hooked into a networked geothermal system, there’s no need to pipe gas into the neighborhood at all. “It’s a real community-based energy system, and you’re using energy that’s literally homegrown,” Casale said. “It’s right under your feet.”Beyond their superior energy efficiency and tendency to go electric, apartment buildings provide denser housing, fitting far more people into a footprint than a single-family home could manage. If located near daily essentials, like grocery stores, residents can walk instead of drive, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Ideally, robust public transportation systems can get those apartment dwellers anywhere they can’t walk to.Building big apartment buildings of just apartments, though, just won’t cut it, said Cécile Faraud, head of the clean construction program at C40, a global network of climate-focused mayors. These structures need mixed uses, where living spaces sit atop commercial spaces, like markets and doctors’ offices. “So you can access care, you can access education, you can access your needs in terms of shopping,” said Faraud, who wasn’t involved in the report. “But also in terms of health, so being able to exercise in parks, etc., and access to nature.”Indeed, what surrounds these apartment complexes matters, too. Green spaces reduce temperatures, boost residents’ mental health, and provide habitats for native plant and animal species. Better yet, “agrihoods” surround working farms with multifamily housing, generating nutritious produce for residents to enjoy or sell. (Faraud stresses that in addition to creating more housing, cities need to retrofit existing buildings to be more energy efficient, like with double-paned windows and better insulation.)Constructing apartments, though, is often way more difficult than it should be, housing advocates say. The new report notes that “apartment buildings of at least four stories are currently allowed on less than 1% of the residential land in all but 10 Oregon cities” — even in progressive Portland, that figure is 14%. “The main thing that we need to do is relegalize apartments in a much larger area of our cities,” Durning said.Cities and states are responsible for that, not the feds. But the growing national push from both parties to get more units built will be a win-win for people and the planet. “Even across a political landscape that’s as fractured and divided and as contentious as what we’re seeing now,” Smith said, “I think most people are willing to say: We want people to have homes.”This story was produced by Grist and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Are CDs safe? Your guide to certificate of deposit security Are CDs safe? Your guide to certificate of deposit securityHere's the quick answer: Yes, certificates of deposit (CDs) are considered safe. CDs from FDIC-insured banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership category.The beauty of CDs is that they combine safety with predictable payouts. Unlike many deposit accounts, where rates can change, CDs earn a fixed interest rate for the full length of your selected term. Ally Financial covers the basics of understanding CDs, their risks, and how to manage them.CD safety at a glance Ally Financial What is a CD?A CD is an interest-bearing deposit account in which your initial deposit is held in a savings account for a specified amount of time. A CD has a fixed-term length and maturity date, which typically can be anywhere from a few months to a few years. At the end of the CD’s term, you can withdraw your funds from the CD without penalty.Think of it as making a deal with your bank: You promise to leave your money untouched for a set period, and in return, the bank pays you a higher interest rate than you’d likely get with a regular savings account.How safe are online CDs?Online CDs are just as safe as CDs from a physical bank, provided the institution is federally insured. You can typically open your CD online in just a few steps.In fact, digital banks may even be able to offer higher rates, since they don’t have the overhead costs of brick-and-mortar banks.Compare CDs vs. other savings optionsUnderstanding how CDs stack up against other savings options can help you make the right choice for your financial goals. Ally Financial CDs vs. savings accountsCDs typically have a higher annual percentage yield (APY) than savings accounts, but they're more rigid in how you can access your money. You also cannot add money to a CD after the initial 10-day grace period is up. CDs are opened in lump sums, while savings accounts let you deposit money whenever you want.While savings accounts usually have variable interest rates, CDs allow you to lock in a fixed interest rate for a set period, which means you could keep a great rate even if market rates drop. Keep in mind that a fixed rate also means you might be stuck with a lower rate if interest rates rise before your term is up.Common risks to considerWhile CDs are among the safest options available, it's important to understand a few possible drawbacks:1. Inflation riskIf your CD's interest rate is lower than the rate of inflation, your spending power will decrease over time. For example, if your CD earns 3% annually but inflation is running at 4%, the real value of your savings is declining — even though your balance is growing. Keep the inflation rate in mind when shopping around for competitive CD rates.2. Interest-rate risk, or opportunity costLocking your funds in a long-term CD means committing to that rate for the entire term. If interest rates rise during your CD's term, you would miss out on those higher returns. A CD laddering strategy, which spreads funds across CDs with staggered maturity dates, gives you periodic opportunities to withdraw or open those same funds at better rates.3. Early withdrawal penaltiesMost CDs charge a penalty if you withdraw before the term ends. These penalties can reduce your interest earnings and, particularly with short-term CDs, may even impact your principal. That’s why it’s important to fund a CD with money you won't need during the term.Why should you consider opening a CD?CDs come with a lot of benefits that make them an attractive choice for stashing your savings:Predictable payouts: Locking in an interest rate at opening means you know exactly how much you’ll earn. CDs might also offer higher rates than traditional savings accountsSafety: As long as you’re banking with an FDIC-insured bank, you’ll be protected up to the maximum amount allowable by law. Since CDs are deposit accounts, there are no associated market or volatility risks, plus your principal is protectedFlexibility and convenience: Most banks and credit unions offer CDs, and they’re typically easy to open online, especially with a digital bank. You can also select a CD that matches your goal.Balance solid payouts with peace of mindBefore you decide if a CD is right for you, think about when you will need the money, how much you can expect to make, and the potential penalties if you need to take the money out early. With the right CDs and a good savings strategy, it's possible to strike a balance between earning interest at competitive rates and protecting your savings against loss.This story was produced by Ally Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	GIFT Gardens invites community enjoy local gardens, breakfast, in news summer series GIFT Gardens invites the community to experience the beauty and generosity of local gardens through a new summer event series: Breakfast in the Garden, a news release says. The series will feature four garden gatherings hosted at different GIFT Garden locations throughout the growing season. Guests are invited to enjoy a light breakfast, tour the [...]
	An effective way to incorporate private assets into your investment portfolio An effective way to incorporate private assets into your investment portfolioIncorporating private assets into a traditional asset mix allows for a more precise investment allocation that can maintain a portfolio's risk-return balance.Investors have long relied on a classic allocation between equities and fixed income to pursue growth and manage risk. But today’s increasingly complex financial landscape calls for a more thoughtful approach to portfolio construction, which is why investors are increasingly investing in private assets. Incorporating private assets into a traditional asset mix is an effective way to boost returns while adding diversification to your portfolio. In making the change, a key question many ask is: How do private assets fit into my existing portfolio?There are many benefits to adding private equity and private credit to your investment mix. Because private asset prices tend not to be correlated with stock and bond market movements, they can offer reduced volatility through diversification — and access to the innovation that is reshaping the global economy. It doesn’t hurt that they also have a track record of higher long-term returns than public assets.How do you strategically incorporate these less-liquid, longer-horizon assets into an existing, well-constructed public markets portfolio? For Christopher Ginter, director of private markets at Fifth Third Private Bank, the answer lies in applying the same foundational investment principles — your objectives, constraints and diversification — while accounting for the unique characteristics that come with investing in private markets.How to blend private assets into your portfolioAccording to Ginter, incorporating private assets doesn’t require a complete portfolio overhaul. In fact, the most effective strategy is often a precise, thoughtful reallocation. “You begin with the same considerations you would for a public portfolio,” Ginter says. “Time horizon, liquidity and legal constraints all play critical roles in why — and how — you bring private assets into the mix.”Assuming the individual meets the regulatory requirements for buying private assets as a qualified purchaser and accredited investor, Ginter recommends a like-for-like approach: Fund private equity investments by trimming existing public equity exposure, and fund private credit by reducing bond holdings.“This way, you maintain the original risk-return characteristics of your portfolio while potentially boosting returns.”Rather than investing all at once, consider a phased approach, known as vintage year diversification. In private asset investing, vintage refers to the year in which a fund begins deploying its capital. With vintage year diversification, for example, if you want to allocate $1 million to private equity, you might commit 30% in year one, 30% in year two, and so on. This strategy spreads risk over time and helps smooth out the impact of market cycles.“Vintage year diversification also allows investors to gradually build familiarity with the asset class,” Ginter notes. “Most clients who’ve been with us for three or more years increase their allocations, but we always suggest starting small.”Understand private investment trade-offsWhile the potential upside is compelling, private market investments come with some important trade-offs. Chief among them is illiquidity. Private funds often require 10-to-12-year commitments, with distributions delayed until years six or seven. That means investors need enough liquidity elsewhere to weather market downturns without tapping into locked-up capital.“You need to match product structure with your financial strategy,” says Ginter. “Someone with $50 million might tolerate more illiquidity than someone with $5 million — but even more important is understanding how the capital will be used.”In practice, the key is balance: maintaining enough liquidity to meet spending requirements while allocating a portion of the investment portfolio to long-term, higher growth opportunities.Choosing the right fund managersFund manager selection is arguably the most important factor in private investing success. Since private funds are less regulated than public investments, due diligence is critical. Ginter’s team uses a five-pillar evaluation framework — people, process, performance, philosophy and product terms — to identify the most capable partners.“You want managers with a unique investment edge, strong operational infrastructure and a solid track record,” he explains, “and you need to understand the fine print — fee structures, leverage and key-person clauses vary widely.”Investing in private markets requires the right tools and insights. Analytical resources like the Takahashi-Alexander model, which is used to forecast capital calls and distributions, and data from PitchBook, to benchmark performance, help ensure private assets remain aligned with a broader portfolio management strategy. But as Ginter cautions, “The models are helpful, but they’re not magic. You still need sound judgment.” That’s why it’s critical to have knowledgeable investment managers to help you navigate these complex decisions. The investment teams at Fifth Third Private Bank have many years of experience with private asset investing and portfolio allocation.Private markets' future strategyPrivate market investments aren’t just a tool for diversification; they can be a gateway to where the economy is heading. Innovations in AI, robotics, blockchain and health care are often incubated in private companies long before reaching public markets. Investors who gain early access to these trends are better positioned for long-term growth.Private assets are also ideal for building intergenerational wealth. “If your time horizon is 10, 20 or even 30 years, private investments can be a powerful part of your legacy planning,” Ginter says. “They’re well suited for gifting strategies, trusts and long-term endowments.”For investors seeking to enhance returns, diversify meaningfully and invest in tomorrow’s innovation, private assets offer a compelling value proposition. They’re not for everyone, but for those who can tolerate limited liquidity and longer time horizons, they can be a transformative addition to the traditional stock-and-bond mix.This story was produced by Fifth Third and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Kansas state employees to see 15% spike in health insurance if they stay with Blue Cross Blue Shield Adam Proffitt, chairman of the Kansas State Employees Health Care Commission and secretary of administration, is concerned about the lack of a pay raise for state employees and the effects raising insurance costs will have. He appears here at a press conference on April 20, 2026, at the Statehouse. (Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)TOPEKA — Kansas state employees choosing Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas health insurance next year will see rates rise by 15% while employees choosing Aetna won’t see an increase as the state encourages a shift to the less costly insurance. Kansas state employees could lose Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance in cost-saving move Members of the Kansas State Employees Health Care Commission expressed dismay that state employees received just a 1% raise this year and spent more than three hours at their June meeting looking at ways to lessen the impact of rising health insurance costs. To meet statutory requirements and make sure there are reserve funds in the state insurance plan, rates had to be raised, commissioners said, as they considered options to change plan deductibles and determine rates for the state and employees. At previous meetings, the commission considered dropping Blue Cross as an option to save money because the proposal made by Aetna was less expensive. But employees from across the state objected, raising concerns including whether the Aetna network is strong in rural areas among other issues. About 34,500 Kansas employees chose Blue Cross as their insurance carrier in 2026, while 4,500 chose Aetna. In the end, the commission tried to incentivize employees to move to the Aetna plan by approving an increase of 15% to the employee contribution for Blue Cross, no raise for Aetna insurance and a 16% increase in what the state pays. Employee contributions will go up Jan. 1, 2027. Changes were also made to increase plan deductibles. Adam Proffitt, commission chairman and secretary of administration, listed the increases state employees have shouldered for health insurance in 2016 through 2019 — 6.4%, 9%, 7.7% and 3.3% for employee only plans. “There were no pay raises in any of those years,” he said. For employee, spouse and child plans, increases were 36.7%, 30.4%, 31.8% and 16.7% during those years, Proffitt said. “There’s only a 1% increase for state employee’s pay this year,” he said. “In my estimation, I think the state owes either a pay increase or holding the line better on benefits.” Proffitt said an employee making $30,000 a year would receive a $300 salary increase that will be “wiped out” with the increase in benefits costs. Even with the increases in costs, the state insurance funds are projected to have $7 million at the end of 2027 and nearly $40 million at the end of 2028, according to data shared at the meeting. That is about $55 million below statute requirements, which require a percentage of estimate claims to be held in reserves, in 2027 and $27 million below in 2028. Rep. Bill Sutton, a Gardner Republican who serves on the committee, said the health care fund was projected to have a balance of nearly $40 million this year, but early in the year, that was wiped out. In earlier discussions, staff attributed the drop to higher medical trends and higher pharmacy trends, with specialty drugs driving much of the reason for the higher expenses. “We’re looking at ending in a terrible position this year and what we’ve done with these changes is simply, hopefully, ending in no worse terrible position a year from now,” he said. “I’m not sure what we’ll do if we have a similar course of events that occur early in 2027 that would simply wipe out the projected balance we have.” Sutton said he’s hopeful the commission can build up the fund so “large, dramatic changes” aren’t needed to stay solvent. Courtesy of Kansas Reflector
	Who lives on your street? Here’s how to find out Who lives on your street? Here’s how to find outWhether you’re new to a neighborhood or just want to get to know the people that live around you, it’s fair to wonder who exactly lives on your street.Before you go knocking on doors or handing out platters of cookies, modern tools can help you get a head start on getting to know who your neighbors are, so you can better engage in your community, connect with the people that live near you, or even find out which houses you might want to keep your distance from. Spokeo recommends a few different methods that can help you get started.Key Takeaways:Start researching who lives on your street by checking public resources like your local recorder’s or assessor’s office.Run a reverse address search to find out more information about your neighbors or who lives at a certain address.Get involved in local community activities or programs to help get to know your neighbors.How To Use Public Records to Research Your NeighborsPublic records can be a decent jumping-off point if you’re looking for a free and easy way to start your “who lives on my street” search. That said, public records can often be disjointed, requiring multiple searches across county, state, or federal government agency websites to put together useful information. Here’s how to do the two most common (and easiest to execute) public records searches.Searching An Address with Your Local County Assessor’s WebsiteIf you’re looking for general property records, your local county assessor’s website is the place to start. It won’t have complete information for every address but can potentially provide some information about things like:Assessed property valueProperty characteristicsRegistered ownerSearching the National Sex Offender Public WebsiteIf you’re safety-minded and want to vet your neighbors (or future neighbors), the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) is a good public resource. If you want to check if a registered sex offender is living on your street, the NSOPW tracks and logs the 800,000 or so registered sex offenders in the U.S. You can run a search by simply following these steps:Navigate to https://www.nsopw.gov/.Enter your address.Select your state in the dropdown menu.Select the mile radius (1, 2, or 3 miles) you’d like to search.After pressing the submit button, you’ll be shown a map with the registered addresses of any offenders, including their photo and information on their offense.Using People Search Tools to Find Out Who Your Neighbors AreIf we’re being honest, searching up your neighbors through public records can be a bit of a slog, eating up a bunch of time for no guaranteed gain. Even if you are able to track down some of the basic information you’re looking for, most of it won’t be particularly useful in letting you know who your neighbors are as people.Conducting a reverse address search takes just seconds — less time than you’ll spend navigating a state’s or county’s website just to find where to search — to pull together data from billions of public sources and present the available information in one neatly formatted package.How To Do A Reverse Address SearchTo get the full picture of a person who lives on your street — or three streets over, for that matter — you only need the address. Here’s how it works:Type the address into a reverse address search tool.Results may include the current legal owner of the property, and also the current residents (they aren’t necessarily the same).Scroll through the report to see details about the property itself, if that’s of interest to you. There will also likely be a list of current and former residents of that address, and you may be able to click on the name for whichever one you want to learn more about.These results can contain a huge variety of information about the people who call that address home, including the names of each person registered at that house. It could also turn up some additional details about the people who live there, including:Family informationMarital statusContact info (including any phone numbers and email addresses connected to that person)Public profiles from over 120 social networksWork and education historyCriminal records/arrest records/sex offensesDepending on your goals, you could either run a reverse address search on just your next-door neighbors or continue along your block and the surrounding streets, searching each address in turn, until you’ve made it through everyone in the neighborhood.Additional SearchesThe results of your address search will arm you with everything you need to dig deeper, if you want to. Searching your neighbors’ full names, one or more phone numbers, or email addresses can reveal additional information that might not come up in the address search, including some more insightful stuff, like their public social media accounts.Glancing at their posts on social media can help you gather a general feel for their attitudes, interests, and outlook on life in general. Based on that, you can infer which of your neighbors is likeliest to be “friend material,” and find some common ground that you can leverage as the basis of a new friendship. That’s one of the challenges of moving (finding friends in a new city, as an adult, can be tricky).Join In on Neighborhood Activities and ProgramsUsing the power of the internet is certainly a good first step in getting the lay of the land as it pertains to who your neighbors are, but if you really want to get to know them, you’ll eventually have to move from your screen to face-to-face interactions.If you’re looking to get involved in your local community (and learn more about who lives near you in the process), look for programs or activities like:The Parent Teacher Association (PTA)Local fundraisersCommunity events (seasonal concerts, movie nights, etc.)Frequenting local restaurantsTrivia nightsNeighborhood clean-upsNothing is going to help you get to know your neighbors like…actually getting to know them!Just Say ‘Hi’Sometimes the most straightforward answer is also the easiest. Whether you’re out on a walk, watering the plants, or just about to hop in your car, a smile and a wave can be the basis for starting a conversation that helps you get to know each other.FAQs About Reverse Address LookupsWho has lived at my address?If you’re curious about the history of your house, there are a few ways you can learn about the previous occupants. 1. Go to your local recorder’s office to access historical property records showing every owner. Or 2. Get your address history by using an address lookup feature.How do I figure out who my neighbors are?Start by running a reverse address search if you are curious about specific neighbors. If you want to actually get to know them, just start by saying “hi” when you see them around, or get involved in local activities that will help you interact.Can you find out your neighbor’s name?Whether you’re just curious about a specific neighbor or keep forgetting their name and are too embarrassed to ask again, running a reverse address search can help you get a list of who lives at a specific address. Once you have a name, you can run it through the name search tool to get additional details (including public social media accounts) that can help you confirm it’s the current occupant.This story was produced by Spokeo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Facing scorching summers, Oregon lawmakers may revisit heat pump expansion programs Oregon could once again expand state programs reliant upon heat pumps to provide air conditioning to residents. (Photo by Douglas Rissing/iStock Getty Images Plus)The demand for more resources to support access to air conditioning continues to rise in Oregon nearly five years after the deadly Pacific Northwest heat dome, and state leaders could once again turn to a popular program to meet it. Lawmakers last week heard testimony from affordable utilities advocates and state energy and public health officials, opening with an acknowledgement of the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat dome incident which left more than 100 Oregonians dead. The meeting came the same day that Gov. Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency over wildfires as heat and drought in the state are expected to worsen over the summer. State Rep. Pam Marsh, a Democrat from Ashland and chair of the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness, told her colleagues that many more people likely died during the heat dome due to chronic and underlying medical conditions. She said she plans to convene a workgroup on the issue of providing cooling systems in housing. “We are looking at a summer that’s likely to be very hot,” Marsh said. “And as we look at the housing needs across the state, making sure that the housing people have is comfortable, healthy and supports them in these pretty exceptional conditions, I think is part of our mission.” The 2021 heat dome spurred action in Salem the next year, when state lawmakers allocated nearly $25 million to encourage owners and landlords to install heat pumps through incentives such as thousands of dollars in rebates. State lawmakers provided another $4 million for the Rental Home Heat Pump Program in 2024, but state officials have since paused such incentives for most Oregonians due to a lack of additional funding. Research has shown that heat pumps use less energy than traditional air conditioning systems by removing heat from the inside of a building and operating like regular air conditioners when in cooling mode. The 2022 law also prohibited landlords from banning portable air conditioners. On Tuesday, state energy department officials referred to a September 2025 Biennial Oregon Heat Pump Report estimating that 25% of air conditioning equipment in Oregon would be heat pumps as of December 2025. That marks a 7% increase in the technology’s use throughout the state since 2023. The next official report is expected in 2027 and likely to come after the upcoming legislative session. They contrasted that figure with a 2023 survey of Oregonians commissioned by the Oregon Department of Energy, which found that 58% of respondents lacked a permanent cooling system. The cost to fix that problem was estimated to range from around $500 million to more than $1 billion, far above what lawmakers have allocated in Salem over the past few years. No new study has been conducted to see if progress has been made on that figure, according to the agency. “The warmer climate in Southern Oregon has driven more consistent air conditioning installations in housing constructed,” Stephanie Kruse, a facilities engineer at the Oregon Department of Energy, told lawmakers. “But as more of our state is experiencing more frequent and sustained heat events, the need for cooling equipment has become more urgent.” Oregon has set a goal of installing 500,000 heat pumps by 2030. The state’s two heat pump incentive programs have resulted in the installation of 4,638 heat pumps and counting in Oregon, according to Christy Splitt, government relations coordinator for the Oregon Department of Energy. She said the agency plans to temporarily open the rental heat pump program “towards the end” of the two-year budget cycle ending in 2027, using remaining funds such as available administrative savings. “I’m hoping for 5,000,” Splitt told lawmakers. “That’ll be a nice number.” Census data places Oregon at nationwide bottom Data from the U.S. Census Bureau released in May, meanwhile, places Oregon as one of the worst states in the nation when it comes to access to air conditioning, though states such as California, Wyoming, Washington and Montana all had lower rates of reported access. In Oregon, more than 18% of the state’s households are estimated to not have any access to a form of air conditioning. The federal data relies upon estimates from 2023, but it shows that the state’s coast and Northeast areas have significantly low rates of access to air conditioning, some with less than half of households in the county. That’s often because the coastal areas of the state can rely on the ocean breeze instead of paying for cooling systems. (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); Jennifer Kalez, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Energy, distanced the federal data from the state’s own 2023 study. “The Cooling Needs Study looked specifically at low-income and at-risk households in the state and differentiated between permanent cooling equipment, and broken and temporary equipment, while the (federal) data is statewide or county wide, and did not differentiate between types of cooling equipment,” she wrote in an email. It’s up to lawmakers to decide whether to fund more of the program. In the meantime, there are also federally-funded programs for rental homes, new construction and homeowners that the state administers, such as the Heat Pump Purchase Program, which provides $2,000 for installations of heat pumps to state-approved contractors. Brian Stewart, co-founder of Electrify Now, a volunteer-run advocacy group that promotes building electrification, said Oregon has in the past enjoyed cooler summers, which explains the federal data showing rates of air conditioning lower than other parts of the nation. With hotter Oregon summers, he said that’s changing and people are “getting the news that a heat pump is better.” Stewart said Oregon lawmakers could also provide incentives to convert low quality air conditioners to heat pumps, particularly in light of the low-income families reliant upon Portland General Electric who have reported that high rates of energy use correspond with bills that cost nearly $300 more. These homes could require deeper technical fixes and repairs, he said, and the price of installing a heat pump can vary thousands of dollars depending on the size of the home and type of the system, such as a solar or geothermal-powered heat pump. “This is why incentives are so important. They reduce these kinds of barriers that people see when they’re trying to make decisions about what to do in their homes and enable them to get products that are going to be better for them in the long term,” he said. “It’s really hard to overcome ‘Wow, it’s thousands of dollars more up front, right?’ And if someone is telling you, well, you’re going to save a bunch of money in the long-term, that’s a hard argument when you’re strapped to just make the initial payment.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Oregon Capital Chronicle
	MUSC opens emergency-urgent care hybrid in Lower Richland, a first of its kind for SC Medical University of South Carolina's president, Dr. David Cole, right, shakes hands Thursday, June 18, 2026, with Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford at MUSC Health's new hybrid emergency-urgent care clinic in Lower Richland. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette)COLUMBIA — Residents of rural Richland County now have access to emergency healthcare close to home, thanks to South Carolina’s state-owned hospital system. The Medical University of South Carolina Health system partnered with a Texas-based company to build a 12,484-square-foot hybrid emergency room and urgent care for the region southeast of Columbia known as Lower Richland. The center’s opening Monday answers pleas that began more than three decades ago from state Sen. Darrell Jackson and the late Rep. Joe Neal, both Hopkins Democrats and pastors first elected to the Statehouse in 1992. Neal, a beloved champion of the needy, died unexpectedly in 2017 at a Columbia hospital. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Richland County legislators’ ask, Jackson said, was for some kind of emergency healthcare for the community, if not a full-fledged hospital. “If someone is having a health emergency, they should not have to go all the way into Columbia to do that,” Jackson said during a ceremony last Thursday. Officials with MUSC and its partner believe the Lower Richland facility is the first of its kind in the state, but it won’t be the only one they build. Plans are underway for combined centers in Florence, Summerville and West Ashley. Intuitive Health, the Texas company, also is working with Tidelands Health to build three sites in Horry County and with Beaufort Memorial to bring one to the southern end of Hilton Head Island. In addition to expanding access, it can also save people money, the partners say. If someone comes in unsure whether they need emergency level care, they’re only billed for the level of care they actually receive. “It solves a common patient problem: Where should I go?” said Dr. David Cole, president of the MUSC medical school. “If you go to the wrong place, you’ll get significant charge differentials. When you come here, you don’t worry about that.” The CT scanner at MUSC Health’s new hybrid emergency-urgent care clinic in Lower Richland. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) Unlike a typical urgent care, the new center is equipped with high-tech medical imaging, including computed tomography (commonly called a CT scan) that combines X-rays with computer technology to create detailed images, as well as ultrasounds and electrocardiogram machines. It also has a fully equipped trauma bay. So, if someone gets in a car wreck, is having a baby, a stroke or a heart attack, the center’s physicians can at least get them stabilized until they’re well enough to be transported to one of the area’s larger hospitals for admission. Founded by an emergency room doctor, it’s a model Intuitive has been following since 2008. With the addition of South Carolina, the company will have more than 35 centers across 11 states. Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia and Washington are the others. “It takes the guesswork out of the hands of the patients,” said Marshall Leslie, the chief growth officer for Intuitive. “If they don’t need emergency level services, they go home with a simple urgent care bill.” Cindy Little, the new center’s nurse manager, said she’s seen it in her personal life. She’s been dehydrated, suspecting a saline drip at an urgent care would probably be enough but not knowing for sure. And she’s had a family member go to the urgent care expecting the nurses to patch up a cut that actually ended up requiring a trip to the emergency room for stitches. The trauma bay at MUSC Health’s new hybrid emergency-urgent care clinic in Lower Richland. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) There are three other urgent care centers — one operated by Prisma Health, one by Novant Health and one by HCA Healthcare — within one square mile of the new MUSC building. “We appreciate some of the urgent care facilities, but no one was willing to do a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week facility,” Sen. Jackson said. “That is what makes this a game changer.” Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford provided details explaining the community’s great need. If you live around the towns of Hopkins or Eastover, she said, “you have a higher likelihood of death because you could not access emergency care services in a timely manner.” Since she took office in 2021 through the end of 2023, Rutherford counted the deaths she responded to in those town’s zip codes: 28 in total “from a child who was having an asthma attack to a woman who died on a day that should have been the happiest day of her life, her due date.” “If you live in rural South Carolina, you should not die because you don’t have access to emergency services,” Rutherford said. MUSC Health has been considering opening this type of facility in the state since before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, said Dr. Patrick Cawley, the state hospital system’s CEO. But when the virus hit South Carolina, overwhelming nursing rooms and blowing hospitals’ budgets, it put those plans on pause. When the hospital system finally recovered and could restart those discussions, it turned to Intuitive for its know-how in developing and operating these complicated centers. Intuitive will take care of day-to-day operations. The two will equally split ownership. And though MUSC is state-owned, Jackson said no taxpayer dollars went into building the center. It was financed by the partners and will be paid for by the revenue it generates. The X-ray machine at MUSC Health’s new hybrid emergency-urgent care clinic in Lower Richland. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) Cawley also said MUSC knew it wanted a location in the Columbia area as part of the effort. To sell the hospital system on Lower Richland, Rep. Jermaine Johnson took Cawley and other administrators on a tour. “I got them to come to my house, and I put them in my car, and I drove them around,” said the Hopkins Democrat who’s represented parts of Lower Richland since 2020. “I showed them the community. I showed them the development. I showed them the things that were happening here.” “I was surprised,” Cawley said. “You look at the numbers on a spreadsheet, and you think, well, there’s some healthcare here within a certain distance. But when you start driving around, you realize there’s not as much as there needs to be.” “This is a growing area,” Cawley added. “So, we think it’s the perfect community for this kind of access.” In addition to the Lower Richland center, MUSC has been investing in its other Columbia-area facilities, too. Since the state-owned hospital purchased the former Providence Health, Cawley said it has gone from having a lot of empty beds to jammed full, to the point they’re building a new emergency room and considering adding another tower of rooms to the downtown Columbia hospital. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of South Carolina Daily Gazette
	Tomb with a View: Genesius Guild's “Antigone,” at Lincoln Park through June 28 Genesius Guild’s current production of Antigone, directed by Michael Callahan, is the Guild’s annual high school show and features a cast of almost all teenagers – appropriate, considering that so many of the key characters, including the titular Antigone, are teenagers themselves.
	Made in America, powered by talent: How to find dependable workers (BPT) - The conversation surrounding American manufacturing has shifted as industries focus on strengthening domestic production, improving supply chain resilience and addressing persistent labor shortages. Overcoming those challenges requires more than just investment in infrastructure or technology; the solution requires investing in people.While workforce participation has increased since the pandemic, it hasn't recovered to pre-pandemic levels, with 1.7 million fewer Americans in the workforce than in February 2020, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Employers continue to search for dependable workers to help sustain production and meet growing demand. However, they're not leveraging an underutilized talent pool: people with disabilities. Expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities is an effective, proven way to help close the employment gap and bolster the American economy.Through the AbilityOne® Program and SourceAmerica®'s nationwide network of nonprofit agencies, people with disabilities are already contributing essential manufacturing and service operations that support federal agencies and military installations across the country. AbilityOne federal contractors manufacture and deliver products essential to government operations, including military uniforms, medical supplies, personal protective equipment, food products and American flags, supporting nearly 150 military bases nationwide. These efforts also reinforce broader federal priorities around domestic sourcing and supply chain stability. As of 2026, 94% of products produced through SourceAmerica's network are either Made in America or compliant with the Trade Agreements Act, while 88% of Procurement List items are made in the United States.The strength of SourceAmerica's network goes beyond what it produces. Where and how the work is done is also significant. There are more than 300 nonprofit agencies with AbilityOne contracts located across all 50 states, Guam and Puerto Rico. Together, the network employs more than 37,400 people with disabilities, including more than 2,700 veterans with disabilities.It's a broad, community-based footprint that helps create reliable domestic production capacity, reduces dependence on overseas suppliers and delivers necessary services. These flexible services provide continuity across government operations, helping agencies respond to current and unforeseen needs. Typically, that means providing essential services that help day-to-day operations for federal customers. Sometimes, that means stepping up during an emergency. For example, people with disabilities working at a Peckham call center placed and answered more than 60,000 calls to support the Department of State's work to help Americans in the Middle East get out of harm's way. The AbilityOne Program also delivers significant public value. For every dollar spent on administering it, the Program generates an average return of $2.66, with returns reaching as high as $4.40 per dollar spent. Employees with disabilities on AbilityOne contracts contribute an estimated $200 million annually in federal tax revenue, while helping reduce reliance on federal benefits programs by an estimated $191 million annually.The network's impact goes deeper than operational success and increased production capacity — it can be seen on an individual level, positively impacting communities around the country. Take Valentino Corbett, who, after serving in the military and struggling with service-related disabilities, found stability and purpose at PRIDE Industries. In his civilian work, he supports the safety and security of a military base as a licensed locksmith. In his personal life, he organizes community initiatives: Toys for Tots drives, bike giveaways, highway cleanups and charity walks — demonstrating how employment opportunities can strengthen both individuals and their communities. Despite workforce shortages nationwide, people with disabilities remain an underutilized talent pool. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is 8.3%, more than double the 4.1% rate for people without disabilities. Additionally, 62% of working-age adults with disabilities are currently not employed.Since these initiatives align with bipartisan priorities such as domestic manufacturing and supply chain security, policymakers have a unique opportunity to expand procurement pathways to enable domestic production by leveraging disability employment programs like AbilityOne.America's modern workforce is skilled and collaborative, with people of all abilities working together to contribute meaningfully across advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology-enabled roles and skilled services. The nation's future is determined by utilizing the full strength of its workforce, with programs like AbilityOne demonstrating what is possible when opportunity, capability and national priorities come together.Learn more about SourceAmerica's impact at www.sourceamerica.org/MadeHere.
	DuTrac Community Credit Union celebrating 80 years DuTrac Community Credit Union will host a ribbon cutting to celebrate 80 years at 11 a.m. Friday, June 26, at 2770 Middle Road in Bettendorf.
	Ruhl&Ruhl Realtors announces July 2026 Iowa Real Estate Pre-Licensing Course The 60-hour Iowa Pre-Licensing Course, which fulfills the state-required education needed to take the real estate licensing exam, is offered four times throughout the year.
	Mel Foster Co. Realtors named 17 REALTrends Verified top agents Seventeen of the company’s agents have been recognized among America’s Best Real Estate Professionals in the 2025 REALTrends Verified rankings.
	8 things to know about the gut microbiome and keeping yours healthy Wellness influencers often talk about fixing a broken gut microbiome. And marketers sell tests and supplements to fix your gut health. Here's what what the evidence really shows about gut health.
	Alan Greenspan, the legendary former Federal Reserve chair, dies During his chairmanship, Greenspan was celebrated as possibly the best central banker in history. But later, his reputation was tarnished by the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.
	AMERICA 250: 15 defining moments in Quad-Cities History How did the Quad-Cities become the region we know today? These 15 milestones offer answers.
	Friends of Hauberg plans Passport to Preservation event in Rock Island The Friends of Hauberg Civic Center Foundation invites the community to experience an evening of wine, gardens, and historic preservation, a news release says. Passport to Preservation is the organization’s signature annual fundraising event that will be held from 5-10 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at the historic Hauberg Estate, 1300 24th St., Rock Island. Inspired [...]
	VNA Community Services, Galesburg, to present capstone of Sunshine for Seniors VNA Community Services will Rays and Graze: A Celebration of Community, Compassion & Connection, a family-friendly community festival on Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Thrive Community Services, 2015 Windish Drive, Galesburg, a news release says. Created as the capstone event of VNA’s Sunshine for Seniors campaign, Rays and Graze will [...]
	For more than 50 years, Iowa has tested future presidents As America marks its 250th anniversary, we look back at the past 50 years of the Iowa caucuses testing the mettle of future presidents.
	Rock Island and Henry County real estate transactions for June 21, 2026 Here are homes sales and property sales in Rock Island County and Henry County.
	Gretchen at Work: Inside Whitey’s ice cream factory in Moline The Quad-Cities favorite has been making ice cream for generations. See how it’s done today.
	Sunshine returns after soggy, cool Sunday Father's Day and the start of summer Sunday was cool and wet. It'll be much warmer today, but still comfortable. A few random shower chances are in the forecast for the week ahead. Heavy rain fell across much of the area Sunday and June's total is well above average. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Childbirth left a Missouri mother paralyzed. Childcare access helped her heal Danielle Stewart looks at her 11-year-old daughter, Marilyn, as they get ready for the day at their Ladue home. Stewart is a fierce advocate for affordable childcare in Missouri (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).The birth of Danielle Stewart’s daughter thrust her into advocacy. She tells the story often. “Imagine walking into a hospital to have your first child,” Stewart said. “And leaving on a stretcher alone, paralyzed from your waist down.” Stewart says a failed epidural left her paralyzed from the waist down — a claim at the center of a lawsuit she later filed against the hospital, which ended in a settlement. She had to learn to navigate new parenthood and a disability at the same time. As she spent the following years learning to walk again, Stewart said her saving grace was access to safe, affordable childcare for her daughter, who she named Marilyn. Now Stewart is joining forces with some of the state’s leading advocacy groups to tell her story to a wider audience as campaigns advocating for both Black maternal health and access to childcare continue to gather momentum around the state. In Missouri, Black women are more likely to suffer maternal morbidity as state and community leaders work to reverse adverse outcomes. And as the state’s childcare crisis continues, a growing number of families are seeking out state subsidies to access affordable daycare. It’s all connected, Stewart said. “How do you talk about maternal health without talking about childcare?” she said. ‘Listen to your patients’ Stewart was induced in October 2014. Her epidural was placed, but she continued to feel contraction pains. Encouraged by the medical team to press the bolus to inject an extra dose of pain medication through the catheter, she instead felt an “electrical jolt” through her back that sent her scurrying up the side of the bed in agony. The anesthesiologist dismissed her concerns, she said, attributing her pain to back labor. Eventually, a new epidural was placed before her labor ended in an emergency cesarean section. Seventy-two hours later, Stewart still couldn’t feel her legs. According to her hospital records, which she obtained through her lawsuit, a nurse documented that Stewart refused to get out of bed to feed her baby. Stewart survived, but her experience reflects a broader pattern advocates point to in Missouri delivery rooms. In Missouri, Black women are 2.5 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women according to the state’s 2025 pregnancy-associated mortality review published by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. In 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched the Hear Her campaign highlighting women’s experiences with pregnancy, delivery and postpartum complications with the goal of increasing awareness around complications and encouraging medical providers to address implicit biases and take all patient concerns seriously. Missouri still among worst states for infant, maternal health as new Medicaid cuts loom Stewart is part of a local storytelling campaign called 2BHeard that mirrors the federal effort. The initiative was launched by Generate Health, a St. Louis area nonprofit focused on addressing racial disparities in maternal and infant health. Lora Gulley, chief operating officer at Generate Health, said Stewart’s experience “tells a story of the importance of listening to women, listening to pregnant people, when they feel or notice things that aren’t right.” This spring, Stewart told her story to a group of mothers and healthcare providers gathered in St. Louis. Her resounding call to action: “Listen to your patients.” When members of her birth medical team called to check on her in the weeks following her injury, she told them: “Once I tell you something’s wrong, listen. Do you understand the scariest thing to me is a doctor that doesn’t listen to their patient.” Childcare as a turning point A few days after Marilyn was born, Stewart signed over temporary custody of her daughter to her mother. Then she was wheeled to a rehabilitation center in St. Louis where she spent the next several weeks. She wasn’t able to breastfeed her daughter. Her career as a parent educator at St. Louis Public Schools was put on hold. When Stewart returned home, she faced rigorous physical therapy. “It was the main focus of my life. I was a spectator in the caring of my child, she said. “I had to sit on the sidelines because of my physical state and watch my mom and brother take care of my child, which was traumatic enough.” Marilyn turned 1. Time went by, and the toddler still wasn’t walking. “At that point I realized my child wasn’t walking because I wasn’t walking,” Stewart said. Eventually Stewart regained enough control of her legs to drive. The first place she took herself was on a search for childcare, anxious to put Marilyn in an environment with children who were walking. Because of her disability and income, Stewart qualified for state subsidies, including the federal Early Head Start program which allowed her to access high quality childcare for her daughter at no cost. Marilyn became the first Head Start student enrolled at University City Children’s Center in St. Louis County. “This allowed me to focus on me enough, to rehabilitate myself enough, to not just be a mom to my kid, but to also rejoin the workforce eventually.” Healthcare bill expanding maternal care, contraception access heads to Missouri governor For the first time since Marilyn was born, Stewart became the primary caregiver for her daughter, a role her mother and brother had previously filled. While her child was at the daycare center, Stewart could focus on outpatient rehabilitation, as well as taking care of household needs, like grocery shopping while using a scooter, without a roaming toddler in tow. “When I saw what having childcare and affordable childcare did for my trajectory, I was convinced that it was extremely important that people, especially vulnerable people, have access to affordable child care,” she said. “Because it didn’t just help my child. It helped me too.” There was no waitlist a decade ago when she enrolled Marilyn in Head Start. But today, Missouri families living below the poverty line could face a delay. In March, the state began placing families who apply for childcare subsidies on a waitlist and now grants funding on a priority basis rather than first-come, first-served, attributing the change to a 19% increase in program demand the year prior. Within three weeks, more than 550 families were on the waitlist. Stewart said the state’s ongoing child care crisis has motivated much of her advocacy work. This spring, she joined Kids Win Missouri in advocating for more access to safe, affordable childcare, sharing her story with lawmakers. “It’s not only a story about all the things wrong with the system, but her triumph over it all,” said Casey Hanson, deputy director of Kids Win Missouri. “… I hope those kinds of things are a reality check to our legislators, because we bring those statistics and things to them all the time, but it doesn’t take in the same way as when you actually hear the story and see this isn’t someone who did something wrong or someone who made choices themselves that landed them in that position. This is a bigger systems issue that led to experiences that (Stewart) had.” The safety net that helped her rebuild Five years to the day after her daughter was born, Stewart reached a settlement agreement with the hospital. She used the money to move out of St. Louis, purchasing a home in Ladue so she could send her daughter to one of the best school districts in the area. Her feet are still paralyzed, but she can walk on her own with the help of ankle and foot orthotics. Her back is often in pain, and she still uses a scooter on days when she has to be on her feet often. Stewart, who now works as a parent-community engagement specialist at the YWCA in St. Louis, said she frequently works with families who could benefit greatly from enrolling their children in childcare in order to invest time into their own work, education and personal betterment opportunities. Danielle Stewart sits with her daughter, Marilyn, as they look at photos on June 15, at their Ladue home. Stewart was paralyzed during childbirth in 2014 (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent). “Something just as simple as childcare allowed me to be able to focus on changing our trajectory,” Stewart said. “I wanted to take the situation and turn it into the best thing that it could possibly be for not only my daughter, but for me too, and I needed community to do that. And I didn’t do it alone. I needed social safety nets to do that.” Stewart relied on a range of government and community programs to care for herself and her daughter as she underwent rehabilitation, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, also known as WIC, utility assistance and Medicaid. Now some of those programs face cuts. Earlier this month, the U.S. House approved a bill that would cut $141 million in fruit and vegetable benefits for WIC. Experts have estimated that if the appropriations bill ultimately passes, it would reduce monthly vegetable and fruit allowances by about 10%, according to The Washington Post. “I don’t know of anybody who’s proud of having used food stamps or proud of having to use WIC; however, it fed my daughter,” Stewart said. “I think that it’s better to understand that we all share the same world but we don’t all share the same realities and there are things that we can make more equitable for people so that their outcomes can be better.” Courtesy of Missouri Independent
	Walcott woman arrested for allegeldy physically abusing, neglecting her minor children A Walcott woman has been arrested for allegeldy abusing and neglecting her minor children for at least two years.
	Wundram This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Ever wonder what it must have been like to live in Old Testament times and have one of those prophets next door…
	Keir Starmer announces resignation as UK prime minister British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday he is stepping down as leader of the governing Labour Party and will leave office within weeks, scarcely two years after being elected in a landslide.
	Despite state bans, abortions have almost doubled. The reason? Pills via telehealth States that have banned abortion are suing to stop mailing of abortion pills over state lines. But the telehealth providers say no matter the outcome, they can adapt, and so will their patients.
	Cook review: 'Toy Story 5' is 'flawless' Every frame is flawless. 'Toy Story 5' is a masterpiece of film making - an astonishing film regardless of the age of its viewer. It's one of those "movie miracles" cinema buffs live for. Is it possible that this franchise began more than 30 years ago? This Pixar series has been entertaining generations for three [...]
	Australian police uncover 3 tons of cocaine The drug was found on June 19 in plastic tubs buried in bunkers hidden beneath three shipping containers. Two Sydney residents were arrested. They face potential sentences of life in prison.
	China hits back at U.S. sanctions restricting its exports to American defense firms China on Monday announced sanctions on 10 American military-related companies in response to a recent U.S. move that bars some leading Chinese tech companies from defense contracts.
	A larger World Cup had some worrying the competition would suffer. It hasn't This year's edition of the FIFA World Cup continues to be thrilling with unexpected performances from tournament first-timers and surprising results from some of the favorites.
Sunday, June 21st, 2026
	QCA public gallery to the celebrate power of local female athletes A public gallery will celebrate the power of area female athletes. According to a release from Orange Door Studios, the Simply STRONG Gallery will showcase local female athletes from elementary school through high school in a portrait exhibition: Through striking portraiture and personal stories, the exhibit shines a spotlight on the strength, determination, confidence, and [...]
	Vacation Hangover: The Financial Stress Travelers Feel After the Trip (Feature Impact) Weekend getaways and cross-country trips are supposed to offer a break from daily routines and financial stress. Yet for many travelers, the return home comes with an uncomfortable reality: the trip cost far more than expected. From luxurious dinners and spontaneous excursions to airport snacks and daily coffees, vacation spending is becoming increasingly difficult to control in an era of rising prices and experience-driven travel. According to a survey conducted by TopCashback, a cash back site serving more than 20 million members worldwide to help people save as much money as possible on everyday spending, overspending while traveling is now the norm rather than the exception. Nearly 94% of respondents said they have spent more on vacation than originally planned, with more than 65% reporting they typically overspend by at least $250. "Vacations should create memories, not money stress," said Elisabella Ricca, personal finance and consumer analyst at TopCashback. "Giving yourself a spending plan before you travel can make it easier to enjoy the experience in the moment and avoid feeling guilty about the cost afterward." These findings reflect a growing disconnect between travel budgets and actual spending as vacationers navigate higher costs and pressure to make their trips feel worthwhile. Inflation's Impact On Travel Behaviors Airfare, hotel rates, dining and entertainment costs are all climbing, forcing many households to rethink how often they take trips and what those trips look like. In fact, nearly 78% of respondents said rising travel costs have changed the way they vacation. Meanwhile, nearly 83% said they're traveling less often altogether due to rising costs. Travelers are Turning to Financing These changing behaviors may also explain why financing vacations is becoming more common. The survey found 67% of respondents have used credit cards, financing plans or "buy now, pay later" services to pay for a vacation. While these tools can help make trips more accessible in the short term, they may also extend the financial impact of a vacation long after travelers return home. Financial Stress After the Fun For some travelers, that long-term effect is already being felt. More than 58% of survey respondents said they feel guilty at least sometimes about how much they spend on vacation, a feeling that often emerges after returning home and assessing purchases that seemed easier to justify while away from normal routines. Small Purchases are Adding Up to Big Overspending Vacation overspending rarely happens through one large purchase alone. Instead, smaller expenses accumulate steadily throughout the trip. For example, 53% of respondents said they're most likely to spend more on coffee or drinks while traveling than they would at home, and another 53% said snacks are the common overspending culprit. These purchases may seem insignificant individually, but multiple small transactions each day can quickly add up. Experiences Outweigh Luxury When Justifying Expenses Even as travelers look for ways to cut costs, most remain willing to spend on experiences they view as meaningful. The survey found the top vacation splurges respondents are most likely to justify are fancy dinners (56%) and excursions or tours (48%). This suggests travelers are placing greater value on memorable moments rather than luxury, such as high-end accommodations. Careful planning isn't enough for most travelers to stay within a budget, as 59% of respondents said they set a vacation budget beforehand, signaling that overspending is often less about a lack of preparation and more about the realities of modern travel costs. Nearly 90% of survey respondents said earning cash back or rewards on travel purchases would influence their spending decisions at least slightly. As people look for a better way to manage expenses and offset costs, many are turning to programs such as TopCashback, which offers travel-related cash back on airfare and last-minute flights, vacation packages, hotels and lodging, transportation and parking, car rentals, travel insurance, cruises, resorts and more. To learn how cash back programs could help you stay within your next vacation budget, visit topcashback.com. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
	When School's Out, Community Steps In (Feature Impact) The joy of being a kid on summer vacation offers a time to explore with your friends, discover new things about the world and yourself and recharge for a few months before heading back to school in the fall. However, for millions of families, the end of the school year also marks the beginning of a stressful season filled with tough choices, as children can fall behind in the months away from the classroom. The summer gap begins when the school doors close and many children lose access to the daily routines, educational support and dependable nutrition that help them thrive. For families already juggling tight budgets and demanding schedules, summer can quickly become a season of added pressure and stress. Summer learning loss - or the decline in academic skills and learning during the school break - can have a lasting impact on academic outcomes. Studies show over the summer, students can forget 20-30% of what they learned during the school year. Without the right support, students often start the new school year playing catchup, which can cause them to fall further behind. Summer can also intensify food insecurity. Of the more than 22 million kids who rely on free or reduced-priced school meals, many lose access to these vital programs over the summer. When those meals disappear, families must stretch already limited budgets to cover up to 10 additional meals a week per child. In fact, recent United Way Worldwide data from 211 - the free 24/7 helpline that connects people with local resources - identified food access as one of the most pressing needs facing millions of families nationwide. These overlapping pressures fall especially hard on millions of working families living paycheck to paycheck, including ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households. They earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford basic expenses like housing, medicine, food and transportation. Addressing the summer gap requires a community-wide approach and solutions that meet hardworking families where they are. For example, United Way Community Schools are community-based hubs that bring together schools, social services agencies, volunteers and other community partners to provide students and families with essential support like tutoring, food access and health and wellness resources. Families also need easy, practical, daily tips and local resources to make ends meet and help their kids stay on track. Learning that Fits Your Day For busy families, low- or no-cost learning moments that fit into packed schedules can make a real difference. Many communities and nonprofits offer dedicated programs to keep children active and learning during the summer, such as: Summer art classes, creative writing workshops and digital literacy tutoring at local libraries Free monthly book deliveries and reading challenges through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library - a United Way partner - or book exchanges at Little Free Libraries in high-traffic areas Gardening classes, nature appreciation classes and swim lessons through local parks and recreation departments Free weekly youth workshops offered by many public museums, zoos and botanical gardens Free virtual museum field trips through institutions like the Smithsonian and NASA Glenn Research Center Free online courses in topics ranging from coding to art or language learning Accessing Your Community's Food Network Families shouldn't have to choose between nutritious food and other essentials. Help is available to ensure kids have the nutrition needed to thrive over the summer. While resources vary by community, examples include: Youth-serving organizations serving as open summer meal sites, offering free breakfast and lunch to kids and teens City parks departments offering daily meal stations School districts offering summer meal programs; food delivery may be an option Local places of worship hosting open-door meal programs or distributing weekend grocery bags for families For those looking to make a difference this summer, consider lending a hand to help children and families. Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to your community. Whether it's mentoring, serving meals, reading with students or supporting local programs, even a small time investment can make a lasting impact. After all, when families thrive, communities thrive. To learn more about childhood summer learning programs, food initiatives and ways to support your community, visit unitedway.org.

Monday, June 22nd, 2026

Sunday, June 21st, 2026