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

Friday, September 25th, 2026
	CNN left off Air Force One for Trump's upcoming trip, White House signals in new media restriction The White House has signaled that CNN will be left off Air Force One for President Donald Trump's Saturday trip in the latest media restriction in an ongoing dispute with First Amendment implications.
	Pigeons This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.The communities clustered along the Mississippi around Rock Island have contributed their share of sports heroes to…
	Ernst honored at Iowa GOP dinner, urges support for candidates Iowa Republicans honored retiring U.S. Senator Joni Ernst Friday night in West Des Moines. Ernst’s seat could be critical in determining whether Republicans hold the majority of seats in the U.S. Senate next year.
	OQC Crime Watch 82: Cybersecurity expert: How to 'keep kids safe on Roblox & beyond' Watch crime reporters Linda Cook and Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in the latest episode of the Our Quad Cities Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode, Linda and Sharon talk with cybersecurity expert, teacher and author Tom Arnold, who teaches in the cybersecurity graduate program at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. Arnold, who [...]
	Erie family keeps farming history alive A family in Erie, Illinois, is keeping the history of farming alive with an annual event that shows visitors how harvesting and everyday life once looked.
	QC Senior Expo brings hundreds together for services and connections Hundreds attended the QC Senior Expo in Davenport, where seniors found services, job opportunities, free haircuts and resources all under one roof.
	Longfellow Elementary students celebrate '9 2 5' with reading tribute to Dolly Parton Friday was "Dolly Day," so named in honor of the late Dolly Parton, who starred in the hit movie "9 to 5." On 9/25, one Rock Island school went "9 2 5" with a whole lot of reading. Longfellow Elementary School celebrated Dolly Parton's love for books with a story time. School district leaders and [...]
	Davenport man charged for making video of nude child Davenport man charged after making video of nude 3-year-old girl.
	Rock Island reschedules its homecoming football game against longtime-rival Moline It's homecoming weekend for Rock Island High School. Homecoming was supposed to be kicked off with a football game against longtime rival Moline. That game is now postponed, as several Rock Island players and coaches are dealing with an illness. The freshmen game will kick off at 11 a.m. Saturday, while the varsity game kicks [...]
	Moody's assessment results in upgraded Rock Island County credit rating A recent independent assessment by Moody’s resulted in a credit rating upgrade for Rock IslandCounty, from A1 to Aa3, according to a news release. A local government’s credit rating is an independent assessment by a rating agency of that government’s ability and willingness to meet its debt obligations. A sign of financial stability, a credit [...]
	State officials approve 14.6% rate increase for individual premiums on ACA marketplace Marylanders impacted by premium rate increases are urged to shop for plan options on the Maryland Health Connection. (Photo by Danielle J. Brown/Maryland Matters)Marylanders who purchase individual health care plans on the state’s insurance marketplace will see a second year of double-digit increases to their monthly healthcare costs, after state insurance officials said Friday they have approved a 14.6% average premium rate increase across plans in 2027. For the 274,000 Marylanders who purchase plans on the state’s insurance market under the Affordable Care Act, called the Maryland Health Connection, the new approved rate increases will compound on last year’s 13.4% rate hike that was issued in response to the expiration of federal tax credits that helped keep some plans more affordable. Without those tax credits, more Marylanders struggle to afford their healthcare plans, leading some of them to downgrade their coverage or go without insurance, experts say, which further puts pressure on the healthcare system. Insurance companies say the increased rates are needed to stay solvent and pay claims at a time when there is less federal funding to help offset rising healthcare and prescription drug costs. Proposed rate hikes for long-term care plans would double premiums for thousands of seniors “I think that the rates that were released today … reflect exactly what’s been brought Maryland’s way, following the expiration of the premium tax credits,” said Matthew F. Celentano, executive director of the League of Life & Health Insurers of Maryland. He’s referring to the enhanced federal tax credits that expired in December 2025 after Congress failed to renew them. Celentano said the tax credits were “critical for consumers” and in helping keep healthcare costs down. The 14.6% average rate increase approved by state insurance regulators on individual plans is actually higher than the 13.7% average increase initially requested by health insurance companies in May and June. But over the summer, insurance companies amended their rate proposals asking for even higher rate increases. State insurance officials say that the approved average rate increase of 14.6% is lower than what insurance companies ultimately asked for in their amended requests. The approved rate increases announced Friday include an average 10.2% premium increase on small group plans purchased on the Maryland insurance market. Increases in the small group market plans were driven largely by increased inpatient hospital care and rising prescription drug costs. Dental plans purchased on the insurance market will also see an 3% average premium increase, down from the 6.5% average increase requested by insurance companies. Just how much the premium rate increases impact family budgets will vary based on several factors, including insurance carrier, plan type, household size and income. For example, a household of four with an Optimum Choice Bronze plan may see a 3.5% rate increase, raising their monthly premium from from $975 to $1,009 a month, state insurance officials estimate, or a $34 per month increase. But a family of four with a CareFirst Bronze plan may see their monthly healthcare costs jump $302, with a 17.2% increase to their monthly premium. Rate increases for individual plans bought on the Maryland insurance market will vary by plan. Here are some examples of what rates may look like for a family of four on a Bronze plan. (Chart courtesy the Maryland Insurance Administration) The Maryland Insurance Administration notes that those examples do not take into account any subsidies that could lower monthly premiums for qualifying households. But rising costs in healthcare and other industries are straining Maryland household budgets, leaving them to make hard decisions of moving to a lower coverage plan or dropping their plans altogether. Maryland insurance regulators say that enrollment on the Maryland Health Connection dropped from 294,000 last year to 274,000 this year. The drop in enrollment is expected to continue into next plan year – an additional reason why insurance companies asked for another year of steep rate increases, according to Maryland insurance regulators. Vincent DeMarco, president of the Maryland Health Care for All coalition warns that the current state efforts are not enough to keep up with rising premiums and healthcare costs. “We are disappointed that Marylanders will pay higher insurance premiums because of bad decisions by the Trump Administration and Congress, especially their failure to extend critically needed health care tax credits and cuts they made in eligibility. This is exacerbated by rising hospitalization and pharmaceutical costs,” DeMarco said in a written statement. “Maryland cannot continue to protect our people without additional state revenue for health care and action to rein in skyrocketing drug costs,” his statement said. Insurance Commissioner Marie Grant urges Marylanders affected by the rate increases to explore plans offered on the state’s Affordable Care Act marketplace. Those with household incomes that fall below 400% of the federal poverty level can qualify for state subsidies that may keep costs lower. Grant also warns Marylanders to be wary of unauthorized health insurance plans in their search for more affordable insurance coverage. “People need to shop and understand their options,” Grant said. “That (14.6% increase) may not be the rate you see – depending on your age, your family structure, your plan.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Maryland Matters
	Man enters into plea agreement in Scott County human trafficking case Agron Mitchell Simpson, a registered sex offender, pleads guilty to multiple charges in federal human trafficking case.
	Spanberger proposes slate of data center regulations, puts first directives in motion Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed Executive Order 22 on Sept. 18 to kick off her data center regulation package. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury)Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger last week unveiled a package of legislative proposals to rein in the data center industry in the commonwealth, with goals to tighten environmental regulations, increase cost allocation for the industry and make the proposal process more transparent by barring non-disclosure agreements between localities and data center developers. The plan does not include a moratorium on data center development while the details of the plan are refined, a step several environmental and advocacy groups and citizens have demanded in recent weeks. Dubbed the “Data Center Accountability Framework,” Spanberger’s plan outlines five pillars as key priorities: transparency, environmental protections, lowering energy costs, promoting clean energy and focusing on local workers. “The framework is a thorough plan to end data center secrecy, protect our environment, lower energy costs for families, bolster our clean energy economy and make sure Virginia workers have the protections and assurances they deserve,” Spanberger said as she announced the plan at the Virginia State Capitol. Spanberger also signed Executive Order 22, which will kick-start her plans for clamping down on the industry ahead of the legislative session that begins in January. Transparency Perhaps the most concrete of the directives is a measure to ban nondisclosure agreements between data centers and executive branch agencies, departments, state boards and commissions. It also bars those agencies from requiring such agreements for data center projects. New data centers in Maryland to get additional scrutiny under governor’s order The order does not impact the use of nondisclosure agreements by localities, but the governor said she plans to work with the General Assembly to pass a law banning the agreements at the local level. Spanberger’s package also proposes eliminating by-right local approvals of data centers that use more than 25 megawatts of power. Many counties have taken steps toward requiring conditional-use permits, which require public hearings and a vote of approval from local leaders. Additionally, the governor wants to remove data centers from Virginia’s fast-track permitting process on permits for projects in “business ready” locations. The fast-track process is a remnant of Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s administration, which encouraged and supported rapid build-out of the state’s data center industry to boost Virginia’s business reputation. Environmental protections The framework directs lawmakers to develop policies to create data center standards for energy efficiency, water use and land impacts. Budget language that passed the General Assembly in June directed the Department of Environmental Quality to identify “water scarcity areas” where data centers’ water use for cooling could put drinking water availability at risk. Data centers in those areas, mainly east of Interstate-95, will have to reduce their water use. The framework also outlines a plan to expedite noise regulations included in the budget language, but does not set a deadline for them to be in place. Currently, DEQ has until 2029 to research the lowest possible sound levels data centers could operate on and make that the standard across the board. Lower energy costs Spanberger’s framwork requires utilities to make data centers pick up more of the energy infrastructure costs incurred by the industry. Dominion Energy has already taken action on that front, creating a new GS5 rate class that mostly includes data centers and large manufacturers. The State Corporation Commission approved the new rate class last November. Like the recommendations in Spanberger’s framework, the new rate class includes 14-year contracts and specific cost allocations for energy generation, distribution and transmission. The SCC also recently directed Dominion to create a new tariff to directly assign the cost of high-voltage transmission lines that are only necessary due to data centers to those customers. Spanberger supported the tariff, which is reflected in her framework. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Tech giant Microsoft has already put the State Supreme Court on notice that it could appeal that order. Microsoft representatives said in an email this month that the company hopes “any rates ultimately put in place are transparent, fair, and reflect the costs each customer creates.” By filing notice of appeal, they continued, “Microsoft preserves its ability to challenge any implementation that does not meet these expectations.” Elevating clean energy, hiring Virginia workers Spanberger’s plan would also limit the amount of power data centers can produce on-site through natural gas generators and other “behind the meter” methods that don’t draw from the electric grid. But it would make it easier for data centers to bring clean energy options on-site, by reforming utility charges for clean-energy investments. PJM, the regional grid operator for 13 states, including Maryland and Virginia, recently proposed a new rule to direct data centers to pay for their power generation or cover their energy needs by backstop power purchases. This would help bring more power on the grid when it’s strained on very hot and cold days. Several recent proposals by data centers in the commonwealth show the industry’s growing interest in building its own gas turbines to power data facilities. That method skirts the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which requires utility companies to retire carbon-emitting power sources by 2050. The framework prioritizes hiring local workers to build data centers and using local businesses for procurement and contractors. Lawmakers, environmental groups, data centers react Several lawmakers and environmental groups spoke up in support of Spanberger’s framework. “Governor Spanberger’s Data Center Accountability Framework is a step in the right direction,” said a statement from the Virginia House Democratic Caucus. “We look forward to continuing to work with Governor Spanberger in the upcoming 2027 legislative session to develop thoughtful legislation that holds data centers accountable.” Many of these policies would require legislative approval, and many are prospective, meaning they will apply to new data center applications but not the more than 600 centers already operating or being built statewide. Counties scramble to respond to data centers, setting moratoriums, a ban “For those that are up and running and already operating, we have the ability and intention to continue to make sure that into the future we are holding them to greater and greater standards,” Spanberger said. Representatives from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Sierra Club, and League of Conservation Voters joined Spanberger for the announcement, calling it a strong first step toward legislation to cement the framework’s goals. Other organizations criticized the framework for not including an outright pause on data center development. “It does not address the continued connection of data centers to the grid, despite inadequate power and the many impacts on air quality, water supply, electric bills, and people and communities,” the Piedmont Environmental Council said in a statement. “Not to mention the hundreds of miles of proposed transmission lines, solely to support data centers.” “We must stop the madness and issue an immediate pause on approvals until these protections – and more – are fully implemented,” said Chesapeake Climate Action Network Director Victoria Higgins. The Data Center Coalition, the leading national group that lobbies for the industry, said it is waiting for more details on the plan. “(We) are ready to engage with policymakers to ensure workable, balanced policies that keep Virginia competitive and honor prior commitments by the Commonwealth and its localities,” coalition representative Nicole Riley said. Spanberger did not answer directly when asked why she did not impose a data center development moratorium while lawmakers consider her framework, but reiterated that some localities are considering pausing data center development. “While [localities are] looking at what’s available to them as a potential option, it is up to our communities … But the state has to show leadership,” Spanberger said. “We are in a place where day by day, community members are demanding action.” The framework, she added, “is an opportunity for us to take action and ensure that we are moving forward.” — This article originally appeared in Virginia Mercury, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Virginia Mercury maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Samantha Willis for questions: info@virginiamercury.com. Courtesy of Maryland Matters
	Consortium including Sandburg recognized by U. S. Maritime Administration The Corn Belt Ports Rural Logistics & Maritime Training & Education Consortium, which includes Sandburg as a member, has been designated as a 2026 Center of Excellence (CoE) for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. According to a news release, the consortium was one of 16 CoE designees for 2026 by the U.S. Department of [...]
	Family Resources honors lives lost on National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims Family Resources gathered Friday in Davenport for the fifth annual National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims, offering healing and survivor support.
	Need to rehome a plant? Quad City Botanical Center is taking donations now The center is accepting plant and garden‑related donations through Sept. 30, with all items rehomed during the Great Garden Cleanout fundraiser on Oct. 1. Donations can be dropped off during regular admission hours.
	Military retirees learn about resources, benefit updates, at Rock Island Arsenal Military retirees from across the Quad Cities gathered to learn about resources and updates to their benefits. The annual Military Retiree Appreciation Day was Friday at Rock Island Arsenal. Vets met with medical and dental providers, veterans service organizations, and community groups. It was also an opportunity for retirees to catch up with their fellow [...]
	More rain to end September After an already wet stretch last week with 8 straight days of measurable rain totaling out to 4.7" of rain total, more rain is on the way to end the month. There is a chance of above average rainfall for the Quad Cities for next week right around when we switch from September into October [...]
	Haunted Fairgrounds to open with new design Visitors can expect to see plenty of new scares at this year's Haunted Fairgrounds.
	Rock Island school celebrates Dolly Parton on 9/25 Longfellow Elementary in Rock Island celebrated Dolly Parton on 9/25, with volunteers reading to students and sharing her legacy of kindness.
	Musco Sports Center wins People's All-Star Community Award The City of Muscatine has announced that the Musco Sports Center has won the 2026 People’s All-Star Community Award, presented by the Iowa League of Cities. The final crown was secured on Sept. 24, 2026, after a highly competitive, statewide bracket-style tournament conducted via public voting. The Musco Sports Center, recognized as the largest inflatable [...]
	Mother of man killed in McDonough County police chase settles lawsuit for $1.5 million James Mellenthin died when his vehicle crashed during a high-speed pursuit on Route 67.
	Ella Langley concert, QC Marathon to impact Moline traffic Ella Langley performs Saturday at Vibrant Arena as the QC Marathon also takes place, prompting road closures and traffic changes in downtown Moline.
	Supreme Court blocks Trump-backed Missouri congressional map The ruling is a defeat for Republicans seeking to give their party an edge in the midterm elections for control of the House. It means voters will face a different map than the one used in the primary elections.
	Rep. Hinson said that she texted U.S. House Speaker about this issue U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson said that she has been in contact with House Speaker Mike Johnson about calling back members to address rising fuel costs.
	Highlight Zone: Week 6 Week 6 of the Highlight Zone
	Jaden and Cece from Family Resources talk Domestic Violence Awareness Month Jaden and Cece from Family Resources talk Domestic Violence Awareness Month
	I have spent the past 6 months reading hundreds of poems by young people – I was surprised to find hope, not despair If you’ve read any commentary about younger people, none of the following statistics will surprise you. Approximately 19% of Americans who are 12 to 19 years old are depressed – higher than any adult age group. Only about 58.5% of teens who are 12 to 17, meanwhile, say they consistently receive the emotional and social support they need. They often have little faith in institutions – be it the government or schools, or one another. And the average American child age 8 to 18 spends 7.5 hours a day watching or using screens. On the one hand, these statistics are understandable: Young people are facing a future shaped by climate anxiety, political extremism, economic instability and chronic loneliness. But those numbers may only be telling part of the story. I have spent the past six months reading hundreds of poems submitted by young writers age 10 to 21. In June 2026, we will publish an anthology of writing from 177 of these young people in the “1455 Young Poets Anthology.” More than 300 young people submitted their poems to a nonprofit I run, called 1455 Storytelling Arts. The poets mostly come from the U.S., but nine other countries are represented. I continually found myself surprised, encouraged and inspired while reading their poetry. In a world that sometimes seems to reward the noisiest and the most aggressive, the wealthiest and the most selfish, these young poets understand something at once simple and profound that I think many adults have forgotten: Hope is not optimism. It’s endurance. The 177 poets featured in the ‘1455 Young Poets Anthology’ range from 10 to 21 years old. 1455 Literary Arts ‘The only way through is through’ For the young writers whose work crossed my desk, hoping for a better future seems to be both a personal and collective act of accountability. It’s a refusal to accept a status quo in politics and other ways of life that might not work for some people. Again and again, young people submitted poems that wrestled with loneliness, fractured families, violence, identity, anxiety, grief and uncertainty. Layla Dwelle, age 15, confronts this tense atmosphere of information overload and anxiety, writing, “I’m tired of the cycle / I’m tired of evil / I’m tired of what is done / I’m tired of what isn’t.” Yet many also revealed an unwillingness to surrender entirely to despair. Alicia Chow, age 14, writes, “I realize the only way through is through / So I keep moving as defiance of loss.” These poems acknowledge pain, but identify tenderness in the darker corners of life. They describe a world that has a soundtrack set on two extremes: chaos and silence. They grapple with real fear and insist that bearing witness to the world gives purpose and meaning to people’s lives. These writers, in short, are not giving up – they are looking to create a future that revises the dysfunctional present, which they see as a work in progress. The titles of some poems speak volumes about the worlds and feelings these poems explore: “Self-Portrait as a Firefly,” “The Cost of Rain,” “The Ones Who Run,” “Prayer for a New Season,” “The Grass That Grows in the Cracks” and “Scars on Soul.” Where reality meets urgency What struck me most while editing this anthology was not the poets’ honesty or vulnerability, though both of those qualities were present. Instead, it was their maturity that really stood out. There’s a focused seriousness present in their writing that combines political reality with a sense of urgency. Here’s Emily Bennett, age 18, from her poem, “For the Love of the Sunk Cost Fallacy”: Because,nothing true aches forever.And sometimes the bravest thingyou can do is simply open your hands. Many of these young writers are trying to answer questions that adults themselves struggle with or avoid, including how to remain human in a culture that monetizes distraction. This is an issue the American writer Jenny Odell compellingly addresses in her 2019 book, “How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy.” Her thesis, simple yet radical, is that attention is people’s most vital resource, and all people are being bombarded, 24/7, with algorithmic strategies looking to distract and divide them. She astutely describes “the mindless traffic of information,” which, not so coincidentally, is something poetry has always stood in quiet defiance of. The poems raise other questions. How do people care for one another without becoming uncomfortably numb to others’ pain and suffering? How do people imagine and create a future while they are constantly reminded of growing inequality within many countries, and with the world’s wealthiest people quickly growing richer? The fact that so many young people are still turning to poetry feels, to me, significant, if not momentous. Poetry is typically not a commercially rewarded art form. It obliges readers to slow down, sit with ambiguity and experience language in ways that plumb interior life. If today’s algorithms reward speed, branding and certainty, poetry rewards reflection. This is the thesis of professor and Atlantic editor Walt Hunter’s illuminating – and quite encouraging – recent article, “Stop Meeting Students Where They Are,” which we recently discussed in detail on my podcast, “Some Things Considered.” Young Americans may not have given up after all Younger people are not oblivious about the world’s problems. The young poets I’ve been reading see empathy not as weakness, but as a bold imperative to help make the world a kinder, more just place. I can hardly think of a better example than 16-year-old poet Dave Thompson’s provocatively titled “What if Jesus Was a Little Brown Boy in the USA”: But you are here.A little God walking to school,still foolish enoughstill holy enoughto believe love might meanwhat it says. As a podcaster and professor of storytelling, I can’t count how many times I’ve heard people my age or older lament that today’s generation doesn’t read or doesn’t care. This issue comes up at almost every panel discussion I’ve recently participated in. I think these kinds of assertions about young people are both simplistic and unhelpful. In some ways, while mental health is a real concern for young people, they are doing better than their predecessors in other ways. Youth arrest rates have been declining since the 1990s in the U.S., for example, and American high school students are more likely than ever to graduate. I think we should pay attention to some of the messages that these young poets are sending. We might even seek to emulate them. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Sean Murphy, Shenandoah University Read more: Trump’s first term polarized teens’ views on racism and inequality From Norway to Wisconsin, children want to be social media influencers when they grow up School start times and screen time late in the evening exacerbate sleep deprivation in US teenagers Sean Murphy does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	“This prosecution is crazy”: Iowa election volunteer charged with election interference Protests are planned Monday over the pending court case against an Iowa election volunteer charged with interfering with vote counting in the 2024 election.
	Former Davenport fire chief dies at 76 The Davenport Fire Department announced the death of former Fire Chief Mark Frese.
	CDC reports first measles death of year as Illinois, Iowa track rising cases As national measles cases reach a 30-year high, Illinois reports 23 cases and Iowa confirms 38, with health officials urging residents to verify MMR status.
	Former St. Ambrose University president dies Edward Rogalski served the school for nearly 40 years, including 20 as president.
	Former Davenport Fire Chief Mark Frese dies at age 76 Mark Frese served 37 years on the Davenport Fire Department, the last 10 leading as its chief.
	Longtime Davenport firefighter, chief, dies A longtime Davenport firefighter and fire chief has passed away, according to a news release from the City of Davenport. "The City of Davenport and the Davenport Fire Department are deeply saddened to announce the passing of former Davenport Fire Chief Mark Frese #419, who passed away at his home this morning, September 25, 2026, [...]
	Johnson County lowers flags to half-staff in memory of student and teacher drowning victims Johnson County has lowered its flags at government buildings in memory of the student and teacher who died this week at Lake Macbride State Park.
	Seniors provided free resources, services at 5th annual QC Senior Expo Quad City seniors were treated to a one stop shop on Friday at the Golden Leaf Banquet Center for the QC Senior Expo.
	Mark Frese, former Davenport Fire Chief, dies at age 76 A longtime Davenport Fire Department chief has died. The City of Davenport and the Davenport Fire Department announced in a news release that former Davenport Fire Chief Mark Frese #419 died at his home on Sept. 25 at the age of 76. Chief Frese dedicated almost 37 years of his life to serving the citizens [...]
	Iowa League of Cities holds conference in Bettendorf The Iowa League of Cities held its annual conference and exhibit in Bettendorf for the first time this week. From Wednesday, September 23 through Friday, September 25. Hundreds of city officials from across the state traveled to the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf for the three-day event from Sept. 23 – 25, the League’s largest educational [...]
	Rock Island school celebrates Dolly Parton Day Students at Longfellow School in Rock Island celebrated Dolly Parton Day on Friday.
	New owners bringing back Captain’s Table name to Moline riverfront The owners of Stumphy’s in Geneseo are moving to Moline to revive the longtime Captain’s Table riverfront restaurant, aiming for a November opening date.
	Early voting underway in Illinois, starts soon in Iowa: What Quad Cities voters need to know Early voting has begun in Illinois and starts soon in Iowa. Here are key dates, deadlines, and ID laws Quad Cities voters need to know before Election Day.
	The Pacific is churning with hurricanes. The Atlantic is quiet. Blame El Niño The Pacific Ocean has had an unusual number of storms this year, while the Atlantic hasn't recorded a single full-blown hurricane. Scientists point to an exceptionally strong El Niño.
	Davenport fire chief retiree dies Mark Frese dedicated 37 years to the Davenport Fire Department until his retirement in 2011.
	Rock Island homecoming game postponed due to 'unexpected illness' impacting athletes, coaches The district said several athletes, coaches and family members "were impacted by an unexpected illness" Thursday evening.
	Aseguradoras dicen que están empezando a emitir nuevas pólizas de seguro de viviendas en California, pero ¿cuántas? This article is also available in English. Read it here. Las compañías de seguros están comenzando a emitir nuevas pólizas en California después de años de reticencia debido al creciente riesgo de incendios forestales. El Departamento de Seguros del estado afirma que esto significa que las nuevas regulaciones del comisionado saliente Ricardo Lara, destinadas a aumentar la disponibilidad de seguros, están dando resultado. Cada vez que una compañía anuncia sus planes para volver a vender pólizas, el departamento lo celebra como un éxito. Sin embargo, el estado no ha publicado la cantidad de nuevas pólizas que las compañías han emitido hasta el momento. Entra en escena Consumer Watchdog, el grupo de defensa que a menudo se enfrenta al departamento. Publicó una estimación de los nuevos compromisos de póliza: 12,189 desde enero de 2025, cuando entró en vigor la denominada estrategia de seguros sostenibles de Lara. Esta estrategia permite a las aseguradoras utilizar modelos de catástrofes, que según afirman tienen en cuenta el riesgo de forma más adecuada porque incluyen modelos prospectivos, y considerar los costes de reaseguro al fijar sus tarifas. Consumer Watchdog, cuyos datos provienen de un análisis exhaustivo de las solicitudes de tarifas de las compañías de seguros, afirma que esa cifra es baja, considerando que las aseguradoras han solicitado u obtenido aumentos de tarifas por valor de 571 millones de dólares en virtud de las nuevas regulaciones. El departamento de seguros discrepa del análisis del grupo, afirmando que tiene la intención de publicar sus propios datos y análisis, y descarta las cifras del grupo por considerarlas “incompletas y prematuras”. Ben Armstrong, actuario de Consumer Watchdog, está haciendo un seguimiento de los voluminosos informes de tarifas disponibles públicamente. Analizó las declaraciones de las aseguradoras sobre la cantidad de nuevas pólizas que se comprometen a emitir y comparó los nuevos informes con los informes de tarifas anteriores de cada compañía. Armstrong explicó a CalMatters que no se trata de una ciencia exacta, ya que los informes mencionan compromisos, no ventas reales, y en algunos casos no incluyen un cronograma preciso. Las nuevas normas permiten a las aseguradoras tener en cuenta los modelos de catástrofes y sus costes de reaseguro, siempre que se comprometan a aumentar las ventas en zonas de alto riesgo. De las 10 compañías que solicitaron aumentos de tarifas conforme a las nuevas normas, solo cinco se han comprometido a vender más pólizas, según el análisis del grupo. La normativa exige que las aseguradoras elijan una de estas opciones : suscribir el 85 % de su cuota de mercado en zonas de alto riesgo; aumentar sus pólizas un 5 % en dichas zonas; o incrementar su número de pólizas un 5 % excluyendo a los clientes del Plan FAIR. Algunas de las compañías que han solicitado u obtenido aumentos de tarifas afirman que ya cumplen con el umbral del 85 %. “Lo que estamos viendo es la realidad actual para los californianos que se han visto obligados a soportar aumentos de tarifas a cambio de la promesa de más políticas en el futuro”, dijo Carmen Balber, directora ejecutiva de Consumer Watchdog. <img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XxJ0Q/full.png?w=780&ssl=1" alt="Una tabla con las compañías de seguros, los aumentos de primas que han solicitado y sus compromisos de crecimiento de las pólizas." style="margin-bottom: 10px; max-width:100%;" /> En la última década, el estado ha sufrido los incendios más mortíferos y destructivos. Hace varios años, las compañías de seguros comenzaron a quejarse de que California, que tiene autoridad sobre los aumentos de primas, no los aprobaba con la suficiente rapidez para que pudieran ajustar sus tarifas al creciente riesgo del cambio climático y los incendios forestales. Algunas compañías dejaron de emitir nuevas pólizas o decidieron no renovar las existentes. Las nuevas regulaciones de Lara, que incluyen disposiciones impulsadas por la industria aseguradora, buscan abordar este problema. Balber afirmó que su grupo publicó su análisis para recalcar que el estado debe redoblar sus esfuerzos para garantizar que las viviendas resistentes al fuego cuenten con cobertura de seguro. Señaló que el número de nuevas pólizas a las que las aseguradoras se han comprometido hasta el momento es minúsculo en comparación con el número de pólizas del Plan FAIR, el último recurso, que sigue creciendo, aunque a un ritmo más lento. Los propietarios recurren a esta alianza estatal gestionada por las aseguradoras cuando no pueden adquirir pólizas en otros lugares, por lo que cuanto mayor sea el número de pólizas en el plan, peor será la situación del mercado principal de seguros. A junio, el Plan FAIR aún contaba con aproximadamente 697.000 pólizas activas, un 157% más que en septiembre de 2022. Michael Soller, portavoz del departamento de seguros, declaró que el departamento publicará su análisis una vez que haya examinado el mercado en general y los datos que recopila anualmente. Desconoce si el departamento publicará un análisis antes de que finalice el mandato de Lara en enero. Los californianos votarán para elegir a un nuevo comisionado en noviembre. “El comisionado Lara ha dicho que la estrategia de seguros sostenibles no es una solución inmediata”, afirmó. “Es una solución y una recuperación que lleva varios años”. David Russell, profesor de seguros y finanzas en Cal State Northridge, coincidió con el departamento en que la estrategia de Lara tardará en dar resultados. “Las aseguradoras están volviendo al mercado con cautela”, dijo Russell. “Lo están haciendo de forma selectiva. Siguen siendo propiedades de alto riesgo”. Una casa en Magalia, condado de Butte, el 4 de noviembre de 2023. Fotografía de Manuel Orbegozo para CalMatters. El excomisionado de seguros Dave Jones dijo que Lara podría haber exigido a las aseguradoras que suscribieran más pólizas de alto riesgo, especialmente considerando que el punto de partida era bajo porque se estableció después de un período de no renovaciones y sin nuevas pólizas. Jones también mencionó que las pólizas de líneas excedentes —pólizas de compañías que no están autorizadas ni reguladas por el estado, y que no cuentan con el respaldo estatal en caso de quiebra— están aumentando en California debido a que la disponibilidad sigue siendo un problema. Soller no cuestionó ninguna cifra específica del análisis de Consumer Watchdog. Sin embargo, señaló que Mercury afirmó que su objetivo a ocho años es convertir aproximadamente el 6,5 % de las pólizas residenciales del Plan FAIR, en consonancia con su cuota de mercado, a pólizas estándar para propietarios de viviendas. «Eso por sí solo representa decenas de miles de nuevas pólizas», declaró Soller. Pero hasta el momento, la documentación presentada por Mercury muestra que se ha comprometido a emitir solo 2107 nuevas pólizas en zonas desfavorecidas, por lo que eso es lo que se incluye en el análisis de Consumer Watchdog. El estado aprobó un aumento de tarifas de 85 millones de dólares para la compañía. La compañía que ha conseguido el mayor aumento de tarifas, de más de 150 millones de dólares, Farmers, se ha comprometido a emitir 5.596 nuevas pólizas. “La disponibilidad está mejorando, pero a un precio”, dijo Russell. “Eso siempre iba a ser así”. Según el sitio web de comparación de seguros Insurify, el costo promedio del seguro de vivienda en California ha aumentado un 5% en lo que va del año , uno de los mayores incrementos del país. Más de 8 millones de propietarios de viviendas en el estado cuentan con pólizas de seguro, según el departamento de seguros. Courtesy of Cal Matters
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	The AI career premium: How AI skills are accelerating career paths As companies continue to embed AI across business functions, AI fluency has moved from an experimental skill to an expected competency. Pay and promotion decisions are starting to reflect that shift. At companies where AI is already central to how work gets done, those skills are increasingly shaping how employees are evaluated, rewarded, and promoted.Jobs that require AI skills are growing nearly eight times faster than the overall job market, increasing at 69% compared to 9%, respectively. That gap between supply and demand is starting to change how quickly people can move up in their careers.From Nice-to-Have to Non-NegotiableThis shift is starting well before promotions come into play, influencing who gets hired in the first place. Third-party research surfaced by the AlphaSense platform shows approximately 74% of employers now consider AI skills a "strong advantage" or an outright requirement for new hires, and more than half expect candidates to already be practical or advanced AI users on day one. Recent World Economic Forum data confirms the trend, with U.S. job postings requiring AI literacy up 70% from last year.There’s a clear business justification for this trend: Employers value AI skills because they boost productivity, cut costs, speed up decisions, and create new growth opportunities. That means the biggest career advantage goes to people who can show they are proactively applying their AI skills toward more efficient and accurate work. Meanwhile, workers gain productivity advantages as well. A global research survey of 1,028 AI decision-makers and leaders in financial services and corporate functions, fielded May 27 to July 30, 2026 by AlphaSense found 60% of professionals say AI helps them make better decisions, and 84% say AI surfaces an insight weekly they would not have discovered otherwise.The AI Skills Gap Is WideningThe problem for employers—and the opportunity for workers—is that there are not enough people with AI skills to meet demand. Data from a 2026 survey of more than 39,000 employers found that AI skills are the hardest to find worldwide, with 72% of employers reporting difficulty hiring specifically for AI application development.Even as the broader hiring market cools, the industry-wide AI-skills wage premium has risen steadily since 2024. For employees, that makes durable, practical skills working with AI as a collaborator more valuable than simply upskilling on the most recent tool available.Inside the Numbers: Faster Promotions, Bigger Paychecks Professionals with advanced AI credentials can get promoted up to 3.5 years faster and can earn up to 25% more, according to third-party research. Still, just 5% of workers currently hold advanced AI credentials, including formal AI training, applied project experience, and demonstrated skill using AI tools on the job. That small group stands apart, as the research shows they’re 4.5 times more likely to report higher wages, and four times more likely to report a promotion they attribute directly to their AI skills.How to Build Your AI Edge That gap between the minority with AI credentials and everyone else raises the obvious question: What should the other 95% be doing? The starting point is recognizing that the right skills to prioritize depend heavily on function. LinkedIn's 2026 Skills on the Rise report breaks it down by role: financial data analysis and reporting for finance; prompt engineering and AI literacy for marketing; model training and retrieval-augmented generation for engineering; and health informatics for healthcare.The commonality across these examples is that generic AI familiarity isn't enough. The credentials that translate into real career movement are the ones tied to how AI is used in your specific job. The real opportunity is to learn the AI use cases most relevant to the work already in front of you.Credentials matter most when they translate into measurable impact on the job, not just on a resume. Here are a few ways to make that happen:1. Start with your own function's skill gapRather than treating AI learning as one-size-fits-all, look at what employers in your field are actually prioritizing and use that to decide where you focus your time. For example, a finance professional who learns AI-assisted financial modeling or deal due-diligence is positioning themselves apart from one who dabbles broadly across tools without a clear focus.2. Document the outcomes, not just the activityMap your use of AI tools to business outcomes. Track specific results, whether that's time saved, errors caught, or revenue influenced, and bring that documentation into performance conversations and promotion cases.3. Seek out cross-functional, high-visibility workTake on challenging projects that put your AI skills to use, especially ones that involve working across team lines. This kind of exposure is valued by top talent programs and helps you build a track record that extends beyond a single manager or team, which is often what elevates a skill on a resume to a tangible business benefit.4. Treat AI skill-building as a career-long habit, not a one-time credentialAI is evolving quickly, and employers’ expectations for employees will keep rising. Those who keep building their skills over time instead of treating it as a one-time event are most likely to keep gaining the career advancement and salary increases that the data shows are possible.This story was produced by AlphaSense and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Applications open soon for Iowa LIHEAP heating assistance Iowa residents who need help paying heating costs can soon apply for supplemental assistance. The 2026-2027 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying low-income Iowa homeowners and renters pay part of their primary heating costs. The program offers supplemental assistance and is not designed to pay a household’s total energy costs. Households with an [...]
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	Hurricanes happen: How ready is your home? When preparing for hurricane season it is, for starters, important to be aware of when hurricane season is so that you remain on high-alert during that time. The exact dates hurricane season begins and ends changes on a yearly basis, but the season generally lasts from June until November. During this time, those who live in high-risk areas should remain mindful of the threat of a hurricane or tropical storm.The season peaks between August and October, with Sept. 10 being the day you’re statistically most likely to find a tropical cyclone somewhere in the Atlantic basin. Hurricanes are common during this time because the ocean water is warm and there’s weak vertical wind shear. HomeServe covers what to know about hurricanes and how to prepare your home.What Areas Are Most Affected by Hurricane Season?In the United States, the most common areas affected by hurricanes are Southeastern states located along the Atlantic seaboard, including Florida, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana and others. Hurricanes mainly make landfall in coastal cities along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Occasionally, hurricanes hit Northeastern states like New York and New Jersey, either directly or indirectly.It is believed that such severe storms often hit these areas because disturbances propagate from the coast of North Africa and get energized in the warm Atlantic climate.How Hurricanes WorkNow that you better understand when and where hurricanes are most likely to occur, it’s time to prepare yourself for hurricane season. First things first: If you live in an at-risk area, make sure you’re always monitoring warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Meteorologists use three distinct terms when categorizing hurricane conditions.AdvisoryAn advisory is issued when conditions can cause inconveniences that may be hazardous, but not likely life-threatening.WatchA watch is issued when a tropical storm or hurricane is possible within 48 hours. When a watch is issued, you should pay close attention to news sources for information, preparing your home and getting ready to evacuate, if necessary.WarningThis is issued when the NWS expects a tropical storm or hurricane to make landfall within 36 hours. You should leave the threatened area if directed to do so by local officials.Knowing these warnings will help you determine what’s going on in your area. It’ll also help you stay prepared when a storm is brewing.How to Prepare Your Home For a HurricanePrepare for High WindsHigh winds are one of the most dangerous aspects of hurricanes and tropical storms, leading to millions (and sometimes billions) of dollars’ worth of damage. In order to protect yourself, your home and your belongings, you need to prepare for these high winds.Reinforce Weak PointsStrengthen your windows, walls and roof. Secure hurricane shutters over your windows. Add bracing to garage doors.Tie Down Loose ItemsBefore a storm, bring loose, lightweight objects such as patio furniture inside your home to ensure they don’t blow away. Any object you can’t bring inside should be anchored. You should also trim or remove trees that could fall on your home or surrounding homes.Consider a Safe RoomYou should also consider having a safe room in your home that meets Federal Emergency Management Agency criteria, or a storm shelter that meets criteria set forth by the “Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters under the auspices of the International Code Council and National Storm Shelter Association,” known as ICC-500.Surviving a BlackoutHigh winds may bring down power lines, which can plunge your home into a power outage. It’s important that you’re ready to ride out the storm in the dark.Gather SuppliesStock up on flashlights, batteries, lanterns and candles. Charge devices and powerbanks. However, to protect them from power surges, you should unplug pricey electronics (like computers and TVs) before the storm begins.You’ll also want to ensure you have enough nonperishable food and water available for you and your family. Foods that don’t require refrigeration or cooking are the best.Preserve Your FoodTo that end, keep your fridge and freezer doors closed during a power outage. Do your best to keep the food inside as cold as possible. If the power comes back on within four hours, it’s typically safe to eat items out of the fridge. Items in a full chest freezer may stay frozen for up to 48 hours. If you suspect a power outage is coming, you can eke out a few more hours of cold storage by lowering the temperature settings on your fridge and freezer before the storm rolls in.Use a Generator — SafelyIf you have a generator, it’s probably one of two types: a portable model or a whole-house standby model. Regardless, make sure you have enough of the right fuel to fill it up. Follow these safety tips:Never use a portable generator inside a garage or in your home.Store fuel in proper containers.If you’re running extension cords outside, make sure to use outdoor-rated ones.Let the generator cool off before adding more fuel.Avoid backfeeding, which is illegal in most jurisdictions.Protect Your HVAC SystemOutdoor AC units are vulnerable during storms. Do these things before a storm hits to protect your air conditioner:Shut off your HVAC system to protect it from power surges and other electrical issues.Cover the outdoor AC unit with a heavy tarp.If you’re putting sandbags around your home, put some around our AC unit, as well.Inspect your unit for damage before turning it back on.How to Prepare for FloodsFlood-Proof Your HomeFlooding also causes catastrophic damage when a hurricane makes landfall. Steps to make your home more flood-resistant include:Make sure gutters and drains are free of debris.Check on your sump pump and remove any debris from the sump pit.Install a water alarm that will alert you when water seeps in.Put irreplaceable, vulnerable items (documents, photos, etc.) on higher floors or shelves.Roll up basement rugs and elevate furniture on plastic totes, if you can.If flooding is expected to be particularly bad, you may want to use sandbags to keep your home dry.What to Do During a FloodA few inches of rainwater in your basement may do some damage, but it’s not the end of the world. A storm surge is what you really need to watch out for. During a hurricane, flood waters can rise rapidly. Just 12 inches of water can sweep away an entire car. Storm surges could bring several feet of water your way.Get to higher ground if you can, and comply with any evacuation orders. If you’re stuck in your home while waters rise, get as far away from electrical outlets and cords as you can. And avoid wading through flood water. It’s not just rain. It may contain chemicals, sewage, sharp objects, rocks and anything else that can get swept away.Protect Your InvestmentA hurricane is going to do a number on your house. Before the storm is the time to take stock of your insurance coverage. Does your homeowners policy cover hurricane-related storm damage? Do you have flood insurance? How much can you expect your policy to pay out if you need to replace your roof, for example?If you have to replace your belongings after a storm, the insurance company is going to want to know exactly what you owned. Before the storm rolls in, take photos of every room in your home, paying careful attention to valuable items. If you have receipts, take photos of those. Write down the approximate value of your items. Email the photos to yourself so you can access them, even if you lose your cellphone.Should You Evacuate During a Hurricane?It can be a difficult decision as a homeowner to leave your home when a storm seems imminent. But, sometimes, it’s necessary. If local authorities advise or order you to evacuate your home, you should grab your important belongings and comply immediately.If you decide to stay home during an evacuation order, you are taking a serious risk. In some places, it may be illegal. You will likely not have access to vital services, including emergency medical assistance.If a storm isn’t expected to be life-threatening in your area, authorities may not issue an evacuation order. If you choose to stay at home, remember that, even if high winds and floodwaters do not reach your house, you may lose power and water, and you may not be able to leave your home for several days if the roads become impassable.If you do evacuate your home, wait until public officials and authorities say it’s safe to return. In the aftermath of hurricanes, people are often injured or even killed while cleaning up. When you return, avoid floodwaters and do not enter a building until it has been inspected.Emergency Supplies to Have on Hand in a HurricaneYou should have emergency supplies at the ready in case a storm hits. These supplies will be needed as you hunker down in your home and wait for the storm to pass. They’ll also come in handy after the storm, if you’re left without power. Recommended supplies include:Means of emergency communication. Keep a backup power source for your cellphone in case of emergency.Medical supplies. You should always be equipped to tend to expected or unexpected medical needs.Documents. Critical documents, such as birth certificates, should be kept in a waterproof container.Food. You should have at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and water.Protective gear. Pack warm clothes and blankets to prevent hypothermia.Comfort items. If you evacuate your home and the situation permits, you can grab items that are irreplaceable or may provide comfort to your family.You can build up your supplies stash over time by adding a few items each week or each month.This story was produced by HomeServe Editorial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	RevOps job postings are outpacing hires so fast that one company is running the same search on two continents One company running two concurrent global Head of Revenue Operations searches simultaneously, in different regions, at the same time — one example pulled from a broader scan of RevOps-related hiring-plan signals ZoomInfo tracked over the past 13 months (June 2025–July 2026).That's not a company being indecisive. It's a company that genuinely can't find the person fast enough in either market, and the tracking shows several other companies with RevOps roles that have sat open for weeks.The scale behind that single example is large: Revenue operations has become one of the fastest-growing job categories in the country, with more than 174,000 open positions listed on ZipRecruiter recently.The demand isn't a blip. Gartner predicted in 2021 that 75% of the highest-growth companies would operate a formal RevOps model by 2025, up from less than 30% a few years earlier. Industry tracking since suggests the share of companies with a dedicated RevOps function has grown from roughly a third in 2020 to nearing half today. Though that particular adoption figure is a directional industry estimate rather than a single, clean, citable study, it’s worth knowing.Titles are growing faster than talent. That's the plain read on the gap between how fast companies are standing up RevOps functions and how many qualified people exist to fill them.Why the role is so hard to fillRevOps sits at the intersection of three skill sets that rarely live in one person: systems and data fluency (CRM administration, reporting, integration), commercial judgment (understanding what a sales or marketing team actually needs from the data), and process design (building the workflows that connect the two).Most candidates come in strong on one or two of these and thin on the third. Combine that with a role that's only existed at scale for a handful of years — there's no deep, decades-old talent pipeline to draw from the way there is for, say, sales or finance leadership.Revenue Operations Alliance survey data found 76% of RevOps job descriptions list collaborative, cross-functional skill as the top requirement, ranked above technical proficiency. That lines up with why the role is hard to fill from a single, pre-existing talent pool: Most hiring processes are searching for someone strong across all three dimensions, systems, commercial judgment, and cross-functional collaboration at once, not just the technical one.What GTM teams can do about it nowWaiting for a perfect external candidate is proving to be a slow strategy, given how long these roles are sitting open. The more workable path for a lot of organizations is building the role internally by taking someone with strong systems fluency from sales operations or a data-adjacent function and investing in the commercial and process-design skills. It's a longer runway than a clean external hire, but a more realistic one given how thin the external candidate pool is.The RevOps hiring gap isn't closing on its own. Companies that treat it as a build problem, not just a search problem, are more likely to actually fill the seat this year instead of running the same open request into next.This story was produced by ZoomInfo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	How to explain being a futures trader to your friends and family Many of us have been there: You’re at a social gathering, hanging out with friends or family you haven’t seen in a while, when someone asks what you’re doing these days. And you say, “I trade futures.”Uncomfortable pause, blank stares, perhaps a polite nod. Maybe someone asks, “Like … predicting the future?” And you sigh.If you’ve ever struggled to explain futures trading without going down a technical rabbit hole, this guide is for you.NinjaTrader breaks it down in a way that makes sense, even if your audience has never looked at a trading chart in their life.What are futures?Just like in school, start with the basics. A futures contract is just an agreement to buy or sell something at a set price at a later date.That “something” could be a range of assets, like:CornOilGoldStock indexes (like the S&P 500)To make it click, bring it into everyday life. Use an example about buying concert tickets early. You might pay $100 today, knowing that as demand increases, those same tickets could be worth $200 later.That early agreement is the essence of a futures contract.Key takeawaySimply put, futures contracts are standardized agreements that reflect expectations about future prices, traded on regulated exchanges.In real markets, this plays out across industries. Farmers manage crop prices. Companies track input costs like fuel or cocoa. Traders participate based on how they think prices will move.Once people see that connection, the concept usually sticks. If they’re still looking for more insight, give it to them.Why people trade futuresThis is where the “why” starts to land.Futures markets exist for two main reasons: managing risk (hedging) and trading opportunity (speculating). Both are essential to how the markets work.Some participants (hedgers) use futures to stabilize costs. Hedgers might produce, distribute, or consume a physical commodity. But hedging isn’t restricted to physical products; it occurs in the financial space as well. Financial institutions might hedge their portfolios with index futures. The common theme in hedging is reducing uncertainty and planning ahead.Other participants (speculators) focus on price movement. They’re watching how markets react to supply, demand, and global events. They’re not buying physical goods; they’re trading how prices change over time.HedgingHedging is about protection. It’s how commercial traders use futures to reduce uncertainty around prices.Imagine a farmer growing corn. Prices can change significantly between planting and harvesting. By locking in a price ahead of time, the farmer has more clarity on what they’ll earn—regardless of how the market moves later.The same idea applies across industries:A food company managing ingredient costs like wheat or cocoaAn airline managing fuel expensesA manufacturer planning around raw material pricesHedging doesn’t eliminate risk completely, but it can make outcomes more predictable. That predictability can help businesses plan, budget, and operate with more confidence.SpeculatingSpeculating is about opportunity. Instead of locking in prices, large professional speculators and small retail traders focus on how prices move. They analyze trends, react to market news, and take positions based on whether they think prices will rise or fall.For example, a speculator might look at:Supply disruptions in oilWeather impacts on cropsEconomic data affecting stock indexesThen decide how to position accordingly.Most traders aren’t taking actual (physical) delivery of corn, oil, or gold. They’re participating in price movement—often over shorter timeframes, but sometimes longer ones, too.In short, you can put it like this:Key takeawayHedgers want predictability. Speculators look for opportunity.That balance is what keeps futures markets active and dynamic.The role of leverage (and why it’s not as scary as it sounds)Leverage is one of those terms that can derail a conversation if it’s not explained well. Keep it simple.In futures trading, you don’t need to put up the full value of a contract. Instead, you post margin—a smaller amount that acts like a deposit.For example:A contract might represent $100,000 of market value.You might only need $5,000–$10,000 in margin to trade it.Key takeawayThat’s leverage. It allows traders to use capital efficiently and access larger markets.But it also means price movements have a bigger impact—both positive and negative.This is why risk management matters. Position sizing, planning trades, and understanding exposure all play a role.Leverage isn’t inherently risky; how it’s used makes the difference.What makes futures different from stocksStocks represent ownership in a company. When you buy a stock, you’re buying a small piece of that business. Futures, however, represent a contract tied to the price of an underlying asset—like oil, gold, or a stock index.That distinction shapes how each market behaves.With stocks, investors often think long-term—company performance, earnings, growth potential. With futures, the focus is more direct: How is the price moving, and why?Futures also offer a few structural differences:Nearly 24-hour trading during the week, allowing traders to react to global events in real timeThe ability to go long or short just as easily, without additional constraintsAccess to a wide range of markets(e.g.,commodities, indexes, interest rates)Another key difference is how positions are used. Futures trades are often shorter-term and more tactical, while stock positions are commonly held longer (though not always).Key takeawayFutures trading is less about owning something and more about participating in how prices move.That shift in perspective is usually what makes the difference click.How traders participate in the futures marketsFrom the outside, futures trading can seem fast or complicated. In practice, it’s more structured than most people expect.Traders typically follow a consistent process. They analyze the market, choose a contract, and decide whether price is likely to move up or down. Then they place and manage the trade.Most are using advanced trading platforms like NinjaTrader to:View charts and price actionApply indicatorsExecute tradesMonitor positionsSome focus on short-term moves. Others take a longer-term view. There’s no single approach—just different styles built around how traders interpret the market.Common misconceptions about futures tradingThis is where things can get interesting. Futures trading comes with a few built-in misunderstandings.“You’re predicting the future.”Not exactly. Traders aren’t guessing outcomes—they’re reacting to current market behavior. Futures trading is based on analyzing price, trends, and market conditions in real time.“You have to buy physical commodities.”Nope. Most traders never take delivery of anything. They’re trading price movement, not handling physical goods like oil or corn.“It’s just gambling.”This comes up a lot. The difference is structure. Traders often use defined risk, position sizing, and planned strategies. Markets are driven by supply, demand, and economic data—not randomness.“It’s only for professionals.”Futures trading used to feel less accessible, but that’s changed. Today, individual traders can participate using modern platforms and educational resources. There’s a learning curve, but it’s not limited to institutions.“It’s too complicated.”It can feel that way at first. But a beginner’s guide to futures trading really comes down to a few core ideas:Prices moveTime mattersMarkets react to informationEverything else builds from there.Clearing up these points can change how people understand futures trading—and how you explain it.Leave them interested (and impressed)Explaining futures trading doesn’t have to feel complicated. Keep it simple and relatable. It’s about price, not products. It’s about agreements, not predictions. It’s about managing risk, not guessing and gambling.Key takeawayFutures trading isn’t about predicting the future; it’s about understanding how markets move.And once you frame it that way, it starts to make a lot more sense—to you, and to everyone else in the room.This story was produced by NinjaTrader and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The life expectancy gap is putting a new focus on long-term financial planning An increase in life expectancy is a cause for celebration, although it brings with it complications and concerns from the knock-on effects of increased longevity on areas like healthcare and housing. Things are further complicated when broad national averages are contrasted with cohort-specific estimates, which provide insights into life expectancy post-65 as opposed to only estimating expected longevity at birth across the entire population.It’s here that the life expectancy gap emerges, and challenges for long-term financial planning become apparent, with implications for individuals and society at large. As the latest data on life expectancy from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) arrives, now is a good time to investigate exactly what’s at stake.Unpacking Life Expectancy DataTraditional retirement planning relies on a static assumption about how long most people live. CDC reporting shows life expectancy at birth in 2024 reached 79.0 years, up 0.6 years from 2023. As mentioned, that single data point muddies the waters when it comes to financial planning, because it is a combined average across the entire population.Moreover, a period life table captures a snapshot of current mortality conditions but does not account for future medical advances or lifestyle changes. SSA cohort estimates are more illuminating in this regard and project that a child born in 2024 will live to 84.2 years. The same SSA data set projects that when that child reaches age 65, they can expect another 20.4 years of life.The clear conclusion is that planning a financial portfolio or buying coverage based strictly on population-level period table averages leaves a gap of roughly five years. Closing this gap requires restructuring income strategies, term lengths, and asset protection.The Hidden Financial Risk in Period Life TablesThe divergence between period snapshots and cohort realities changes how financial assets must perform over time. Period statistics reflect death rates across all age groups in a single calendar year, meaning they carry the weight of temporary spikes and historic health crises.Cohort tables track actual populations as they age, factoring in persistent improvements in survival rates. The previously cited CDC National Vital Statistics Report demonstrates that period measurements lag behind cohort projections across almost every adult demographic.According to AccuQuote, a life insurance broker, long-term financial planning that ignores cohort projections increases the risk of systemic depletion. When income strategies underestimate survival by five years, portfolio withdrawal rates calculated at age 65 will fail to support basic needs past age 80.How Extended Coverage Protects Against Longevity RiskLonger life spans require guaranteed risk transfer mechanisms that extend beyond typical working years. Relying exclusively on standard 20-year or 30-year term coverage can leave individuals exposed when health risks begin to compound.As individuals live longer than past population averages, traditional fixed-term policies often expire before the need for financial protection ends. Evaluating modern coverage options helps align insurance durations with dynamic cohort projections rather than static population averages.To prevent systematic shortfalls, income strategies must include dynamic withdrawal rates that adjust automatically based on market sequences and age milestones, extended policy terms that protect surviving spouses well into their nineties, and inflation-protected annuities designed to absorb rising healthcare overhead over three decades. Extending policy terms and income safety nets shields accumulated wealth from late-life medical costs. Longevity planning moves the focus from accumulating a lump sum to sustaining income streams over an unpredictable timeframe.Why 30-Year Retirements Require Different Asset AllocationAccumulating wealth for a 20-year retirement requires a fundamentally different asset allocation than preparing for a 30-year horizon. Conservative portfolios heavily tilted toward fixed income could struggle to outpace cumulative inflation over extended periods.The aforementioned SSA research indicates that unisex life expectancy at age 65 continues to increase as mortality rates decline across older age brackets. Keeping an equity allocation deeper into retirement helps maintain purchasing power while reducing the risk of outliving total capital.Managing portfolio longevity demands balancing market growth with guaranteed income floors. When predictable lifetime income covers fixed costs, liquid assets can remain invested to counter the long-term erosion of purchasing power.Closing the Gap for GoodAddressing the life expectancy gap must involve moving away from simplified rule-of-thumb retirement planning. Relying on headline average lifespan metrics could create a structural vulnerability in long-term financial security.Incorporating cohort longevity projections ensures that term durations, withdrawal strategies, and risk protection models remain functional for 30 years or more post-retirement. Reevaluating existing risk models today can protect personal capital against the rising costs of longevity.This story was produced by AccuQuote and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Three things to know: Sept. 25, 2026 Today's Three Things to Know: Give Like Dolly Day, Special Olympics Polar Plunge and Kewanee Hispanic Heritage Celebration.
	Woman who accused Jay-Z of sexual assault says her claims were false On Thursday, the woman identified as Jane Doe filed a declaration in Manhattan federal court stating that all of her original claims against the rapper were false.
	Honor Flight guardian helps Vietnam veteran reconnect with a lasting bond An Honor Flight guardian helps a Vietnam veteran search for a connection to a fallen friend, while honoring her late father's dream of taking the trip to D.C.
	Whiteside County Animal Control director files defamation suit over Starsky comments The Whiteside County Animal Control director filed a defamation suit against two people over social media comments about the euthanasia of a dog named Starsky.
	Banks made $3 billion from overdraft fees in just 6 months: Here's how to avoid paying them The average overdraft fee is about $35, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and U.S. banks collected $2.96 billion in combined overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees in just the first six months of 2026, according to a Motley Fool Money analysis of Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) Call Report data. That covers 512 banks with more than $1 billion in total assets. Smaller banks are not required to report that data, so the true nationwide total is higher.Several major banks have cut or eliminated their overdraft fees since 2019, providing their checking accounts an extra perk, but overall, banks are still raking in billions from overdraft fees.Key pointsOverdraft fees cost: The average overdraft fee is $35, with U.S. banks collecting nearly $6 billion annually.Big banks dominate: Major banks like JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo generate most overdraft fee revenue.Disproportionate impact: Lower-income, younger, and underrepresented groups are more likely to pay overdraft fees.How much banks made on overdraft fees in 2026 and over timeBanks are on pace to generate overdraft fees at about the same level as 2024 and 2025, close to $6 billion, after a roughly $1.7 billion decline from 2022 to 2023. Motley Fool Money Revenue from overdraft and NSF fees dropped by nearly half between 2019 and 2023 as several major banks cut or eliminated their fees, with a sharp one-year drop in 2020 as pandemic-era spending patterns and stimulus payments briefly reduced overdrafts.Overdraft fee and NSF revenue have risen slightly for two straight years since.One bank accounts for 19% of all overdraft fee revenueA small number of the largest banks drive most of the industry's overdraft and NSF revenue. Motley Fool Money JPMorgan Chase alone accounted for about 19% of all reported overdraft and NSF fees in the first half of 2026, more than any other bank in the data.Three banks account for most of the swing in overdraft and NSF revenue since 2019: Chase and Wells Fargo are the two largest collectors in the group, and Bank of America made the deepest overdraft fee and NSF cuts of any bank in the data.Bank of America's overdraft and NSF revenue fell from $1.56 billion in 2019 to $140 million in 2023, after the bank lowered its overdraft fee and dropped its NSF fee entirely, and it has edged up only slightly since, to $152 million in 2025.Chase's revenue fell from $2.06 billion in 2019 to $1.1 billion in 2023, then recovered to $1.11 billion in 2025 and is on pace for a similar total in 2026.Wells Fargo's revenue fell from $1.7 billion in 2019 to $937 million in 2023 and has stayed roughly flat since, at $928 million in 2025, according to Motley Fool Money's analysis of FFIEC data.The average overdraft fee is $35, but one major bank charges just $10The typical overdraft fee is about $35, according to the CFPB. That figure lines up closely with what the largest banks actually charge. For example, JPMorgan Chase charges $34 per overdraft item, capped at three fees per day. Bank of America is the exception at $10 per overdraft, capped at two fees per day, down from $35 before it cut the fee in May 2022, according to the bank.12% of Americans paid an overdraft fee last yearTwelve percent of Americans paid an overdraft fee in 2025, according to the Federal Reserve, but lower-income, younger, and Black and Hispanic Americans were more likely to have paid one. Motley Fool Money Those same groups have lower average checking account balances than the groups less likely to overdraft.How to avoid overdraft feesThe most direct way to avoid an overdraft is to catch a low balance before overspending. Some banks have apps that provide low-balance alerts in real time.“Set up a low-balance alert and treat that number like it's your actual zero,” advises Motley Fool Money personal finance expert Joel O’Leary. “A little heads-up text that says ‘hey, you're getting close’ gives you a chance to react while it's still a small deal instead of a fee.”Checking account activity often and keeping a basic budget to provide a running sense of income versus spending can also catch spending that an alert alone might miss. In addition, some checking accounts are no-overdraft-fee accounts, which waive the fee even for accidental overdrafts.“If you're overdrafting on the regular, it's definitely worth switching to a bank with no-overdraft fees,” O’Leary said. “One tradeoff is the best no-overdraft-fee accounts live online, so you'll need to be comfortable banking mostly from your phone. On the plus side, most online banks have no account fees and great mobile apps, so you usually come out ahead.”FAQsWhat is the average overdraft fee?The average overdraft fee is about $35, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Some of the largest banks charge close to that: JPMorgan Chase charges $34 per overdraft item, while Bank of America charges $10, down from $35 before it cut fees in May 2022.How much money do banks make from overdraft fees?U.S. banks with more than $1 billion in assets collected $2.96 billion in combined overdraft and NSF fees in the first half of 2026, according to a Motley Fool Money analysis of FFIEC Call Report data. That is on pace with 2024 and 2025, after revenue fell by nearly half between 2019 and 2023.MethodologyThe bank-level and industry-wide revenue figures in this article come from a Motley Fool Money analysis of FFIEC Call Report data, Schedule RI, item RIADH032, which combines overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee revenue on consumer deposit accounts. Only banks with more than $1 billion in total assets are required to report, so the totals in this article do not capture the entire U.S. banking industry; the true nationwide figure is higher.Full-year figures for 2019 through 2025 use each bank's year-end (Dec. 31) report, which reflects the full calendar year on a cumulative basis. The 2026 figure uses each bank's most recent report as of September 2026, which was the second quarter (six-month, January-through-June) report for 507 of the 512 banks and the first quarter (three-month) report for the remaining five. Any full-year 2026 estimate in this article doubles the six-month total and is a rough estimate, not a projection.This story was produced by Motley Fool Money and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	There's a global pandemic treaty that's signed -- and in 'limbo.' What's the holdup? The treaty aims to help the countries of the world prepare for — and defeat — any future pandemic. Why hasn't it gone into effect?
	Illinois bill calls for K-12 student athlete cardiovascular screenings An Illinois bill could require cardiovascular screening for K-12 student athletes in the near future.
	Man arrested after months long investigation into Burlington cocaine distribution A man was arrested on Thursday after a several months long investigation into cocaine being distributed throughout Burlington.
	The Supreme Court revives a controversial data system for citizenship checks The Supreme Court is allowing use of a data system that Trump officials overhauled. The system has erroneously flagged U.S. citizens and a lower court found it violated federal privacy protections.
	High diesel prices put pressure on school bus budgets in the Quad Cities Rising diesel prices are putting pressure on school districts that operate their own buses, while one district says another fuel source is helping control costs.
	Running a small business means making sacrifices. Are they permanent? Small business ownership means sacrificing time, predictable income, and sometimes even your own paycheck to build a business. Those sacrifices can become permanent if you’re not careful.Becoming your own boss often comes with a trade-off or two. Starting a business can mean leaving behind a steady paycheck and paid time off, only to find yourself working evenings and weekends, while losing sleep over planning.Based on input from 883 U.S. small business owners, and fielded in June 2026, Rocket Lawyer's 2026 Small Business American Dream Survey found that 55.3% of small business owners started their business in part for more flexibility in their schedule. However, 23% named time as one of the biggest barriers to starting or growing that same business.One small business owner put it plainly: Business ownership means working constantly, "often times more than a traditional 9-5," with the tradeoff being control over your own schedule and job security. Another owner described the exchange more bluntly: Having a business might mean a more flexible schedule, but it might also mean "not enough income."As Rocket Lawyer explains below, these insights show just how much business owners may be giving up. But instead of accepting those sacrifices as part of the job, it may be time to ask whether the sacrifices that helped you get started are still helping you grow.Which sacrifices are necessary?In the short term, working extremely long days or taking less pay can make sense. Maybe you are saving cash for new equipment, covering a slow season, still finding clientele, or just doing most of the work yourself.But if those temporary sacrifices become your normal way of operating, they may point to a business problem worth examining. Start by examining these sacrifices:Look at your time. If you still handle every invoice, customer question, order, and administrative task yourself, ask whether you can delegate or automate some of the work. Improving an entrepreneur's work-life balance isn’t an overnight change. It’s building systems that make your business less dependent on you over time.Look at your money. Paying yourself as a business owner can be complicated because the appropriate method may depend on your business structure and tax situation. But repeatedly skipping your own pay can be an issue. This usually means it’s time to examine pricing, costs, margins, and cash flow.Where is your money going?Sometimes, the sacrifices you’re making may be tied to how money comes into and goes out of your business. Reviewing key parts of your business operations to understand your cash flow is important to ensure your business is running properly.Review your customer agreements. Are your current prices still covering your costs and the time required to do the work? Are customers paying you for your service or product on time? Could deposits, milestone payments, shorter payment periods, or clearer late-payment terms improve cash flow?Review your expenses. Many software subscriptions, supplier agreements, professional services, and other costs can increase over time. Have you seen those increased prices? Are you still willing and able to pay those increases? Renegotiating a contract, changing vendors, or eliminating an expense you no longer need could give your business more room to pay you and reduce some of the pressure that comes with common small business challenges.It may be time to reassess the sacrificesThe goal when reviewing your cash flow and business operations is to choose them intentionally, rather than continuing habits your business has outgrown.Am I still working the hours I worked when I started? Which tasks do I need to handle, and which could someone or something else handle?Am I paying myself enough and consistently? If not, is the problem pricing, expenses, cash flow, or how customers pay me?Could better contract terms improve my income? Should I revisit prices, deposits, payment deadlines, or vendor costs?Could my business operate without me for a few days? If not, which processes, responsibilities, or decisions should I document or delegate?What to do nextTrack where your time goes. For one or two weeks, note which tasks take the most time and which you could delegate, outsource, or automate.Review how your business pays you. Look at your cash flow, pricing, margins, and owner compensation to see whether your current approach is sustainable.Revisit important contracts. Check customer payment terms and recurring vendor costs for opportunities to improve timing or reduce expenses.Build a business that depends less on you. Document repeatable processes, assign responsibilities, and research and implement available tools to help with routine business and legal tasks. Consider asking an attorney before changing important contracts.It’s very common to make sacrifices when starting your business. As your business grows, remember to review those sacrifices regularly to make sure you’re still getting the flexibility you set out to have.This story was produced by Rocket Lawyer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The CRM AI tools built for email personalization are the ones teams often overlook Many sales teams have enough faith in AI to let it help them with prospect outreach. In fact, HubSpot’s 2025 State of Sales Report reveals that 83% of sales professionals agree that AI can be used to personalize prospect engagement, and 31% deem it the tool that delivers the highest return. Despite that, 72% of sales organizations fail to invest in high-value sales activities (such as email personalization), according to a Gartner survey conducted in 2026.The technology is there, but many sales teams haven’t taken the time to implement it. This Nutshell guide offers an insight into how the trust in CRM AI tools hasn’t yet evolved into high-value habits, how sales reps should deploy email personalization, and how to gauge if your personalization efforts are paying off.Key takeawaysThe barrier to AI email personalization is awareness of the feature availability, and developing a habit of using the AI tools when sending emails.Effective email personalization focuses on high-value data points, such as deal stage, interaction history, and behavioral signals.An increase in email reply rate and sales meetings booked are signs that your personalized emails are working.What is AI email personalization in a CRM?AI email personalization involves using your CRM’s native AI features to craft custom email content, including subject and opening lines, using the contact’s stored data and behavior. The AI in your CRM uses data points like the contact’s industry, last activity, and deal stage to customize the email content.Data volume affects the depth of AI personalization. In other words, the more contact history in your CRM, the more specific your messaging can be. That means that an email sent to a contact with years of purchase history and support tickets could potentially include many more specifics than one sent to a brand-new lead that has only completed a submission form.Beyond the historical context, another common function in the personalization process is optimizing when the email is sent. A CRM AI tool uses a contact’s past activity to predict when they are most likely to open an email, and tailors the send time to maximize the chances of an open.It’s a level-up approach to standardized email templates used for prospect outreach and lead follow-ups. And it’s a capability that most modern CRMs include.Why do many sales teams still send generic emails?Sales teams are still sending out non-personalized generic emails because activating that capability involves making a deliberate decision, which is often just postponed to a “more convenient time” later. Considering the praise teams have given AI personalization, it’s likely that they have enough faith in the feature.The missing element is ownership, because without an official owner, teams are unlikely to switch the capability on. Businesses must identify and assign ownership of the feature’s rollout, the creation of its initial templates, and the continuous monitoring of the tool’s efficacy to ensure it’s turned on and utilized.A framework for turning on AI personalization the right wayTurning on the AI personalization feature is the easiest part of the process. Making sure your team uses it well and reaps the benefits is where the real work lies.Which data points are worth using for email personalization?These days, adding the name of the recipient to the email subject line and greeting doesn’t really count as personalization. And some CRM fields are better suited for personalization than others, so it’s important to know what data is useful here.It’s important to focus on more than just demographic data. Data points that typically prove helpful for personalization include deal stage, interaction history, and behavioral signals. Nutshell How do you ensure AI-personalized emails sound natural?To make sure that your AI personalization efforts deliver natural-sounding emails, it’s important to read every email draft before it’s sent to your recipients. Check for everything from openers and subject lines to information the contact already knows. Make the necessary adjustments before you hit send.But beware of crossing the line when personalizing your messaging. A 2021 study by McKinsey discovered that while 71% of consumers expect personalized brand interactions, 76% don’t respond well to messaging that feels invasive or misses the mark.For example, mentioning a specific LinkedIn comment posted by the prospect in your first meeting might give them the impression that you’ve been surveilling their social media accounts. The better play is to keep the conversation focused on the information they’ve volunteered.What’s a simple rollout plan for a CRM AI email personalization tool?Rolling out your CRM’s AI email personalization feature shouldn’t be a complicated process, but it should incorporate a few stages for the smoothest possible integration into your workflow.These four steps should be all you need to get up and running:Audit active features: Run an audit to establish whether you already have any active AI personalization features.Select your data points: Avoid trying to personalize your messaging with every possible piece of data off the bat, and pick one or two core data points as a start instead.Review emails manually: Although the point is to speed up the email personalization process, test and double-check an initial batch of emails before locking in.Expand if effective: If your CRM’s AI tool has successfully personalized your emails to the point that you’re seeing an increase in replies and conversions, start implementing the feature across a broader set of email communications. Nutshell How do you measure personalized email performance?To figure out whether AI personalization actually improves email performance, run an A/B test sending a personalized email to a portion of your list and your standard email template to a different portion. Then, compare the numbers to see which one performs better.Two core metrics you’ll want to keep tabs on to determine whether your AI personalized emails are performing well, including:Reply rate: This is the percentage of emails that your recipients actually respond to, and a great indicator of real engagement.Time-to-first reply: This is the time between when the email is sent and when you receive a response. A quick response is indicative of stronger engagement.But at the end of the day, the real impact of effective AI email personalization through your CRM tools is seen in your team’s sales productivity. When personalization works well, it reduces time spent on manual personalization, increases your reply rate, and makes your team more productive.The next step is turning AI personalization onAnother key insight from McKinsey’s 2021 research is that companies that personalize their messaging generate 40% more revenue from their personalization efforts than standard messaging.AI email personalization already exists as part of your team’s CRM toolset. What’s missing is the decision to flick the switch and the ownership that comes with that. Then, teams can start personalizing based on the data points that matter most to them, and track and check results as they interact with contacts.The gains are literally one simple setting away.Frequently asked questions about AI email personalization1. Does AI email personalization work for small sales teams, or only large teams?It works at any team size. Small teams often see the clearest gains because a handful of reps can review and adjust AI-drafted emails quickly, without layers of approval slowing down the rollout.2. Is AI email personalization the same as mail-merge?No. Mail-merge inserts a name or company name into a fixed template. AI email personalization adjusts the message itself, including the opening line, examples included, and sending time, based on CRM data.3. Will personalized emails have a negative impact on deliverability?Deliverability is the likelihood that an email reaches a recipient’s inbox and not a spam folder. Personalization itself won’t hurt your deliverability. Things like sending volume, list quality, and authentication protocols like SPF and DKIM affect deliverability far more than whether an email is personalized.4. How much editing does AI-drafted copy typically need before sending?Most teams do a quick manual pass, checking the tone of the email, removing anything that feels invasive, and confirming factual details pulled from the CRM are current.5. How long before a team sees measurable results?Reply rate differences between personalized and generic emails typically show up within a few weeks, once a reasonable sample size of sent emails accumulates.This story was produced by Nutshell and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Running a small business means making sacrifices. Are they permanent? Small business ownership means sacrificing time, predictable income, and sometimes even your own paycheck to build a business. Those sacrifices can become permanent if you’re not careful.Becoming your own boss often comes with a trade-off or two. Starting a business can mean leaving behind a steady paycheck and paid time off, only to find yourself working evenings and weekends, while losing sleep over planning.Based on input from 883 U.S. small business owners, and fielded in June 2026, Rocket Lawyer's 2026 Small Business American Dream Survey found that 55.3% of small business owners started their business in part for more flexibility in their schedule. However, 23% named time as one of the biggest barriers to starting or growing that same business.One small business owner put it plainly: Business ownership means working constantly, "often times more than a traditional 9-5," with the tradeoff being control over your own schedule and job security. Another owner described the exchange more bluntly: Having a business might mean a more flexible schedule, but it might also mean "not enough income."As Rocket Lawyer explains below, these insights show just how much business owners may be giving up. But instead of accepting those sacrifices as part of the job, it may be time to ask whether the sacrifices that helped you get started are still helping you grow.Which sacrifices are necessary?In the short term, working extremely long days or taking less pay can make sense. Maybe you are saving cash for new equipment, covering a slow season, still finding clientele, or just doing most of the work yourself.But if those temporary sacrifices become your normal way of operating, they may point to a business problem worth examining. Start by examining these sacrifices:Look at your time. If you still handle every invoice, customer question, order, and administrative task yourself, ask whether you can delegate or automate some of the work. Improving an entrepreneur's work-life balance isn’t an overnight change. It’s building systems that make your business less dependent on you over time.Look at your money. Paying yourself as a business owner can be complicated because the appropriate method may depend on your business structure and tax situation. But repeatedly skipping your own pay can be an issue. This usually means it’s time to examine pricing, costs, margins, and cash flow.Where is your money going?Sometimes, the sacrifices you’re making may be tied to how money comes into and goes out of your business. Reviewing key parts of your business operations to understand your cash flow is important to ensure your business is running properly.Review your customer agreements. Are your current prices still covering your costs and the time required to do the work? Are customers paying you for your service or product on time? Could deposits, milestone payments, shorter payment periods, or clearer late-payment terms improve cash flow?Review your expenses. Many software subscriptions, supplier agreements, professional services, and other costs can increase over time. Have you seen those increased prices? Are you still willing and able to pay those increases? Renegotiating a contract, changing vendors, or eliminating an expense you no longer need could give your business more room to pay you and reduce some of the pressure that comes with common small business challenges.It may be time to reassess the sacrificesThe goal when reviewing your cash flow and business operations is to choose them intentionally, rather than continuing habits your business has outgrown.Am I still working the hours I worked when I started? Which tasks do I need to handle, and which could someone or something else handle?Am I paying myself enough and consistently? If not, is the problem pricing, expenses, cash flow, or how customers pay me?Could better contract terms improve my income? Should I revisit prices, deposits, payment deadlines, or vendor costs?Could my business operate without me for a few days? If not, which processes, responsibilities, or decisions should I document or delegate?What to do nextTrack where your time goes. For one or two weeks, note which tasks take the most time and which you could delegate, outsource, or automate.Review how your business pays you. Look at your cash flow, pricing, margins, and owner compensation to see whether your current approach is sustainable.Revisit important contracts. Check customer payment terms and recurring vendor costs for opportunities to improve timing or reduce expenses.Build a business that depends less on you. Document repeatable processes, assign responsibilities, and research and implement available tools to help with routine business and legal tasks. Consider asking an attorney before changing important contracts.It’s very common to make sacrifices when starting your business. As your business grows, remember to review those sacrifices regularly to make sure you’re still getting the flexibility you set out to have.This story was produced by Rocket Lawyer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Millie Moo Foundation Walk raises pediatric cancer awareness The Millie Moo Foundation is hosting its Pediatric Cancer Awareness Walk in downtown Port Byron on Saturday, September 26th. Community members are encouraged to “chalk the walk” and write positive messages along the walk route from Rams Riverhouse, 102 S. Main Street, to Riverbend Pizza, 709 S. High Street at 9:30 a.m. There will be [...]
	Volkswagen recalls 2.86 million VW and Audi models over possible steering issue Volkswagen Group said Friday it is recalling 2.86 million Volkswagen- and Audi- branded vehicles as a precautionary measure over a screw whose failure could cause a loss of steering.
	Farm bill provision on SNAP error payments holds up Senate vote States could soon pay a share of benefit costs based on error rates.
	Family holds vigil for 10-year-old who died on school field trip The family of 10-year-old Ahmed Osman held a vigil Thursday night to honor him and his teacher, whom they called a “hero” after the two died during a field trip.
	How to adjust to new eyeglasses You wear your new glasses for the first time, but something feels off. The edges of the room curve slightly, straight lines look tilted, and a dull headache begins to develop. It's natural to think that something isn’t right with your prescription, but in most cases, what you're experiencing is completely normal.Mild visual changes and discomfort are often part of adjusting to new glasses. These symptoms are temporary for many people. Whether you're wearing glasses for the first time or switching to a new prescription, your brain needs time to adapt to clearer visuals.This guide from Eyemart Express helps you understand common adjustment symptoms, expected timelines and signs you should follow up with your eye care provider.Key TakeawaysThese takeaways can help you set expectations for the adjustment period:Adjustment timeline varies: Most people adjust to new glasses within a few days to a couple of weeks, but complex prescriptions may take longer.Symptoms are temporary: Headaches, blurriness and the fishbowl effect are standard and typically fade within the first week.Consistent wear is key: Switching back to old glasses may slow your adjustment.Fit affects comfort: Frame fit issues can lead to physical discomfort like sliding or pressure marks, while prescription symptoms are primarily visual.Know when to call: Follow up with your eye care provider if symptoms do not gradually improve.How Long Does It Take to Adjust to New Glasses?Many people adjust to new glasses within a few days to two weeks. However, the exact timeline depends on whether you’ve previously worn glasses, your prescription and lens type.During the first day, you may notice mild distortion, tilted lines, headaches, dizziness or unusual peripheral vision. These symptoms can occur as your brain learns to interpret the clearer visual information your new lenses provide.Within the first week, symptoms should start to become less noticeable, particularly if you consistently wear your glasses. Stronger prescriptions, bifocals, astigmatism correction and progressive lenses can take longer to feel natural. Eyemart Express Here's what you can typically expect within the first couple of weeks:First day: Mild blurriness, distortion, headaches, dizziness.First week: Symptoms may gradually improve.Weeks 2-3: Complex prescriptions continue to settle.After 2-3 weeks: Most people feel fully adjusted. Persistent symptoms may require a follow-up with your eye care provider.Follow up with an eye care provider if significant discomfort continues beyond the normal adjustment window.Is It Normal to Have a Hard Time Adjusting to New Glasses?Yes, it is normal to have a hard time adjusting to new glasses, especially during the first few days. The key is steady improvement. Symptoms should become less noticeable over time and likely won't disappear immediately.First-time glasses wearers may need a little longer to adjust because the frames, lenses and corrected vision all feel new at once. You may notice the frame edges in your vision, feel more tired with screen use or find brighter spaces more intense than usual.These symptoms usually fade as your brain adjusts to the frames and corrected vision. Wearing your glasses consistently during the first two weeks can help make the adjustment smoother. Activities such as reading or using a computer may feel slightly different at first, but they generally become more comfortable as your brain adapts.Common Symptoms of Adjusting to New GlassesNew glasses change the visual information reaching your brain, so mild symptoms are common during the first few days. Some people experience only one or two of the symptoms, while others may notice several at once.The combination depends on factors such as any differences in lens type and prescription.Blurriness, Peripheral Distortion and the Fishbowl EffectBlurriness and mild visual distortion are among the most common symptoms. Although these changes can feel unsettling at first, they usually improve as your brain adapts to your new prescription:Blurry edges: Mild blurriness around the edges of your lenses is normal during the first few days as your brain learns to translate clearer visual information.The fishbowl effect: You may notice the edges of your vision looking curved or slightly distorted, particularly with stronger prescriptions, progressive lenses or astigmatism correction.Environmental changes: Straight lines may appear slightly bent, and floors or walls can seem tilted. Many people notice this most when walking through large open spaces or long hallways.Noticeable astigmatism correction: Even small changes to an astigmatism prescription can temporarily change how your vision feels, as astigmatism causes distorted vision. This makes the adjustment period feel more pronounced.Your central vision should remain clear during normal adjustment. If you’re experiencing persistent blur through the center of your lenses, book an appointment with your eye care provider.Headaches and EyestrainHeadaches and eyestrain are common during the first few days, especially across the forehead, around the brow and behind your eyes. They should become less frequent or intense during the first week.Keeping your glasses on, even if they're slightly uncomfortable, is usually more effective than taking them off repeatedly throughout the day. Even small prescription changes can cause mild eyestrain or headaches early on.If headaches persist or worsen after the first two weeks, contact your eye care provider.Dizziness and Balance IssuesDizziness during the adjustment period can feel similar to mild motion sickness because your balance and visual systems are learning to work together. Curbs, stairs and depth perception may feel temporarily unfamiliar, especially with significant prescription changes or progressive lenses.Walk a little more slowly than usual when going down stairs or stepping off curbs until your depth perception feels comfortable again. Most wearers only notice this symptom during the first couple of days. If dizziness is severe or does not improve, follow up with an eye care provider.How to Adjust to a New PrescriptionKnowing what to expect from your lens type and prescription strength can help you stay patient while your vision adapts.Adjusting to a Stronger PrescriptionStronger prescriptions can make objects appear slightly smaller or larger, or change your perception of distance, during the first few days. This perception usually settles as your brain adapts to the corrected input.For standard single-vision changes, adjustment often takes a week or two. Larger prescription changes may take longer. Even if your new prescription offers clearer vision, your brain still needs time to adjust to that level of clarity.Adjusting to Astigmatism CorrectionAstigmatism typically involves an irregular curve in the cornea or lens, which affects how light focuses in the eye. New astigmatism correction can make straight lines seem skewed, floors appear tilted and peripheral distortion feel more noticeable.Glasses correct that imbalance, but the correction can feel unfamiliar until your brain adjusts. Your brain can take time to adapt because astigmatism correction changes how visual information reaches the eye. Proper frame fit and lens positioning are especially important for astigmatism.Adjusting to Bifocals and Prism-Based PrescriptionsBifocals can create an “image jump” as your eyes move between prescription zones. This typically fades with practice as you learn where to look for distance and close-up tasks.Prism prescriptions can also take longer to adjust, as they affect spatial perception and eye alignment. Schedule an appointment with your eye care provider if these lenses continue to feel disorienting.How to Adjust to Progressive LensesProgressive lenses can take extra time to adjust to because they feature multiple prescription zones in a single lens. Distance correction sits at the top, intermediate vision is in the middle and near vision is at the bottom.At first, you may worry you’ve received the wrong prescription as you notice peripheral blur, a sway sensation or difficulty finding the right viewing zone. These symptoms are common while your brain learns how to use the lens design.Here are some tips to make the adjustment process smoother:Practice head movement and finding the right zones: Progressive lenses work best when you move your head, not just your eyes. Point your nose to what you want to see, then adjust your chin up or down to find the correct prescription zone. For distance, look through the top of the lens. For reading, look down at the end of the page with your chin slightly down. For computer work, use the middle zone.Wear them consistently: Daily wear helps your brain learn the new lens zones.Use caution on stairs: Look through the distance zone at the top of the lens when walking, especially on stairs and curbs.Progressive lens adjustment can take anywhere from a week to a couple of months.How to Adjust to New Glasses More QuicklyThere is no way to skip the adjustment period entirely, but consistent habits can make it smoother:Put them on in the morning: Start wearing your glasses when you wake up to give your brain more time with the corrected visual input.Do not switch back: Stick with your new prescription as much as possible. Going back to old glasses can make it harder for your brain to adapt.Start at home: Spend the first day or two in familiar spaces before tackling visually demanding settings like crowded stores or busy roads.Wait to drive: Avoid driving until you feel safe and confident, especially if your depth perception or peripheral vision feels off.Use the 20-20-20 rule: If screens make your eyes tired, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.Clean your lenses: Smudges and fingerprints can make it difficult to judge how your vision is improving.How Frame Fit Affects Your Glasses Adjustment Eyemart Express Not every uncomfortable symptom is caused by the prescription. Poor frame fit can also cause headaches, slipping and visual distortion that mimic prescription adjustment. Some signs that your frames may need adjustment include:Pressure at the temples or behind the ears.Red marks on your nose.Uneven lenses.Off-center pupils.Frames touching your eyebrows or cheeks.Fit issues tend to cause physical discomfort, while prescription adjustment symptoms are usually more visual. If your frames consistently feel uncomfortable or sit unevenly, return for a professional refit instead of bending them yourself.Small professional adjustments can usually resolve most fit problems. Many frame adjustments only take a few minutes and often improve comfort without replacing your lenses.When to Follow up With Your Eye DoctorContact your eye care provider if your symptoms worsen or something clearly feels wrong with your new glasses. Watch for warning signs such as:Persistent blurry vision: If your vision is still blurry after two to three weeks, schedule a follow-up appointment to check that your prescription and lens measurements are correct.Eye pain: Eye pain is not a typical part of adjustment, and it’s advisable to see your eye care provider as soon as possible.Consistent headaches: If you’re experiencing headaches beyond the first two weeks, your eyes may be struggling to adapt.Severe dizziness: If balance or dizziness symptoms do not improve, avoid activities like driving until you've spoken with an eye care provider.Double vision: Continuous or new double vision requires prompt evaluation, especially if it develops suddenly or persists beyond the first few days.Worsening vision: If your vision feels worse with new glasses than without them, your lens positioning, prescription or frame fit may need to be evaluated.Damaged or misaligned lenses: If your lenses appear distorted or scratched, return to your eyewear provider for a follow-up appointment.What to Expect After Adjusting to New GlassesThe discomfort you feel today will not last. Within a few weeks, your new glasses will feel like a natural part of how you see the world. You will move through your day without thinking about the frames on your face.Depth perception settles, and headaches fade. This adjustment period is temporary, but the benefits are lasting. Clearer vision means you can read without straining, drive with confidence and see the details that matter most in your daily life. The learning curve may feel challenging now, but it leads to a more comfortable, capable way of navigating the world.Give yourself time to adapt. Gradual improvement is usually a sign that your eyes and brain are adjusting successfully.This story was produced by Eyemart Express and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	6 reminder email templates for small business waiting up to a month to get paid Chasing a late invoice is one of the more awkward parts of running a small business. The work has been done and the invoice has been sent, yet the money still hasn't landed. According to Xero Small Business Insights, U.S. small businesses were paid an average of 8.5 days late and waited about 29.3 days to be paid in the June quarter of 2026.Late invoices can hurt a small business, as they tie up cash needed to run the business, and reminders can be uncomfortable to send. However, a simple sequence of payment reminder emails (starting friendly and getting firmer over time) can create a system to collect without damaging client relationships. Xero compiled the six templates below to cover every stage of that cadence, with suggested timing for when to send each one.Stage 1: A few days before due dateA short, friendly note a few days ahead of the due date confirms the invoice arrived and keeps the payment on the client's radar without any pressure attached.There’s little harm in an early reminder. For an owner juggling several clients, a couple of days shaved off each payment can add up across a month of receivables. Include a copy of the invoice and a payment link to make it easy for the client to pay right away.Subject: Quick reminder: Invoice [#0000] due [date]Hi [client name],This is a friendly reminder that invoice [#0000] for [amount] is due on [date]. A copy is attached for your reference, and you can pay online using the link below.[payment link]If it's already on its way, thank you, and please ignore this note. If you have any questions, just reply here.Best,[your name]Stage 2: A few days after it’s dueOnce the due date passes, the payment is officially late. Keep the tone light, as most late payments are simply oversights.In this nudge, be sure to restate the specifics: the invoice number, the amount, and the original due date. Then give one easy next step. It also helps to hint at what comes next if it remains unpaid.Subject: Invoice [#0000] is now past dueHi [client name],Just following up on invoice [#0000] for [amount], which was due on [date].You can settle it in a couple of clicks here: [payment link]. If there's a question holding it up, let me know and I'll sort it out. If I haven't heard back by [date], I'll follow up again.Thanks,[your name]Reminders also convert better when paying is easy. Offering a couple of one-click options, such as card and bank transfer, with a pay-now link on the invoice itself, takes away the small frustrations that push a payment to next week.Stage 3: One and two weeks overdueOnce an invoice is one to two weeks overdue, it’s appropriate to shift the tone. Still keep it professional, but be firmer. Be clear about what’s owed, days overdue, any late fees that apply, and what comes next.Repeated lateness by the same client is worth taking seriously. In the Federal Reserve Banks' 2025 Report on Employer Firms, drawn from the 2024 Small Business Credit Survey, 51% of small employer firms cited uneven cash flow as a financial challenge. Every invoice stuck in limbo feeds that problem.Late fees or interest should be included in this reminder, but only if they were agreed upon up front. This is why talking about payment terms is important. Second reminder, subject: Second notice: Invoice [#0000], [X] days overdueHi [client name],Invoice [#0000] for [amount] is now [X] days past due, and I haven't received payment or a reply to my last note.Please arrange payment by [date]. If something is preventing that, tell me and we can work out a plan.Regards,[your name]Third, firmer reminder, subject: Action needed: Invoice [#0000] overdueHi [client name],Despite two reminders, invoice [#0000] for [amount] remains unpaid and is now [X] days overdue. Payment is due by [date].Per our agreed terms, a late fee of [amount or %] applies from [date] if the balance isn't settled. I would much rather resolve this directly, so please call me at [number].[your name]If two written reminders still go unanswered, a phone call often helps to get a more direct response from the client to understand why the payment is delayed.Stage 4: 30 days and beyond (final notice)If reminders and a phone call haven't worked, it’s time to be direct. A clear final notice should state the total due, including any late fees, the days overdue, a firm deadline, and the consequence for continued nonpayment, whether that’s pausing further work or applying a late fee.The stakes are real for a small business. With payments averaging nearly a month late, that’s potentially a month of revenue sitting locked up in receivables at any given time. That wait strains cash flow directly: One large unpaid invoice can push an owner from comfortable to scrambling, especially when several clients pay late in the same cycle.For serious cases, a formal payment reminder letter, sometimes called an overdue payment letter, escalates beyond email. It carries the same facts in a more official register, typically on letterhead and sent by mail or as a signed PDF, which shows the matter has moved past routine follow-up.If it stays unpaid, the next steps should be practical rather than alarmist: Offer a payment plan, make a direct phone call, document every attempt in writing, and only then consider a collection agency or legal action such as small claims court.Final-notice email, subject: Final notice: Invoice [#0000], [X] days overdueDear [client name],This is a final notice for invoice [#0000] for [amount], originally due [date] and now [X] days overdue. Earlier reminders remain unanswered.Please pay the full balance by [date]. If payment doesn't arrive by then, I will [pause work / apply the agreed late fee / refer the account for collection]. I remain open to a payment plan if you contact me first.Regards,[your name]Formal payment reminder letter[Your business name and address][Date][Client name and address]Re: Overdue invoice [#0000]Dear [client name],Our records show invoice [#0000], dated [date] for [amount], remains unpaid at [X] days past due. This letter is a formal request for full payment of [amount] by [date].If payment is not received by that date, we may pursue further steps to recover the amount owed, including [late fees / a collection agency / small claims court], as allowed under our agreement and applicable state law.Please treat this as a priority. Contact us at [phone or email] to arrange payment or discuss options.Yours sincerely,[your name], [title]The system that actually worksThese four stages share a simple backbone. Whatever the tone, every message should state the invoice number, the amount, the original due date, and a clear way to pay. Whether reminders go out from a spreadsheet or online invoicing software, the cadence matters more than the tool.Keep it friendly and assume an oversight at first, then get progressively firmer. At 30 days, a final request for payment is appropriate, followed by offerings of payment plans.A predictable reminder system turns an uncomfortable task into routine admin and gives small businesses a fair shot at getting paid on time. The sooner the reminders become routine, the less any single late payment can knock a business off balance.This story was produced by Xero and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	Merchants are running separate shipping operations for parcel and LTL freight, and only optimizing one Most retail businesses run two shipping operations. One is integrated into their software, automated, and refined over time. The other is simply managed.For many merchants, parcel receives the most attention. Those businesses often use rate shopping, automation, real-time tracking, returns management, and other tools that connect parcel shipping to the rest of the business.But freight has evolved differently. It often runs through phone calls, broker relationships, separate portals, and workflows that were never integrated with anything else. Some businesses don’t even consider freight part of their shipping system.That’s exactly the problem.ShipStation’s 2026 Merchant Insights Report surveyed 868 U.S. retail merchants and found that 78% already ship freight. Yet most manage it through a platform that doesn’t connect to the one handling the parcel.This structural gap runs through a significant portion of retail businesses—and, in many cases, one that nobody is actively working to optimize.Modern shipping has always been more than parcel. Most businesses simply haven’t managed it that way.Here’s what the data reveals, why the divide matters, and how merchants can address the fulfillment and shipping challenges that arise when running freight and parcel as separate operations.When shipping costs start setting the limitsShipping and freight rates limit growth for 62% of merchants—nearly double the next-closest challenge, expensive or limited warehouse space at 34%. It’s also the only challenge that appears consistently across businesses of every size.And the costs continue to rise. Shipping costs increased over the past 12 months for 75% of merchants, while 67% now spend more than 10% of total revenue on shipping and fulfillment.At those levels, shipping and fulfillment costs don’t just affect margins. They can limit what a business can afford to do next.But here’s the part many merchants miss when they talk about “shipping”: They’re often only looking at half of the operation.LTL freight shipping is still operating outside the systemFreight is now the norm: 78% of merchants already ship freight, handling shipments that are too large for traditional parcel networks but don’t require an entire truckload. In less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, multiple shippers share trailer space and each pays for the capacity their freight occupies.Whether freight originates from a bulk order, a growing wholesale account, or another part of the business, it’s often handed to a broker or representative. Once the shipment moves successfully, the process rarely gets a second look because it “works, more or less.”The businesses that don’t ship freight tend to be the smallest, and that isn’t always a strategic choice. Freight requires merchants to understand how to quote, classify, and book shipments. Without that capability, businesses can quietly limit the size of orders they can accept—and the revenue and profit those orders could generate.The result is two completely different shipping workflows inside the same business, with only one receiving consistent attention and optimization.That’s where the problem becomes structural.Among merchants that ship freight, 58% use a third-party provider that isn’t connected to their parcel platform. Every quote, booking, tracking update, and invoice occurs elsewhere. Teams move between carrier portals, wait for emailed quotes, and reconcile separate invoices. Manual handoffs appear throughout the process.Comparing the parcel and freight workflows side by side:Parcel: An order enters the system, rates are automatically compared, a label prints, tracking flows back to the order, and billing is managed through the same platform.Freight: Someone emails or calls a broker, waits for a quote, has limited visibility into alternatives, books via a phone call or a separate portal, tracks the shipment elsewhere, and then receives another invoice.Without centralized LTL tracking, merchants often don’t know where a shipment stands until a customer asks, and every additional step creates opportunities to lose time, visibility, and money. Building a smarter freight strategy starts with understanding what that second workflow is actually costing the business.Freight is an outlier in another important way. Merchants often keep fulfillment, warehousing, returns, and parcel shipping under their direct control. Freight is the activity they’re most likely to hand off to a third party—and more than a fifth of merchants skip it altogether.That’s the second workflow in a nutshell: not necessarily a system merchants deliberately chose, but one that was never integrated into the rest of the operation.Peak season exposes the cracksA second workflow can seem manageable when volume is predictable, and there’s time to chase down a quote. Then comes the one quarter of the year when neither is true.More than 70% of merchants earn over a quarter of their annual revenue in a single quarter, while 25% generate more than 40% of their annual revenue during peak season. And businesses aren’t waiting until Q4 to prepare: when the survey was conducted in the second quarter of 2026, 45% were already preparing for peak or planned to begin within the following month.Ask merchants what concerns them most heading into peak, and the issue isn’t simply generating demand. It’s whether they have the capacity to handle it, whether shipments can move reliably, and what those shipments will cost when volume increases.When shipping operations are fragmented, those pressures become harder to manage. The manual freight workflow, which is merely inconvenient during normal periods, can become a bottleneck when volume spikes, and teams have less time to intervene.Price opens the conversation. Capability closes it.When merchants rank what matters most in a logistics partner, rates come first—no surprise there. What’s more interesting is everything that follows.Better carrier rates matter to 88% of merchants. But the ability to scale during peak season, technology that provides real-time visibility across the fulfillment operation, and access to a single provider for shipping, freight, and warehousing rank close behind.Cost still opens the door. Saving money is the top reason 32% would switch logistics providers—more than any other single reason.But larger businesses are already looking beyond price alone. Companies with 50 or more employees are three times as likely as the smallest businesses to choose a logistics partner based on technology and visibility rather than cost.That distinction matters. As operations become more complex, the value of a logistics platform isn’t limited to negotiating a better rate. It’s also about reducing the number of systems, handoffs, and disconnected workflows required to move an order from start to finish.Asked directly whether they would value consolidating freight and parcel shipping on a single platform, merchants are clear: 74% say having a single provider for parcel shipping, freight, and warehousing is important or very important.What’s been missing is a practical way to bring both halves of the shipping operation together.Parcel and LTL freight shipping work better as a systemFor years, merchants have invested heavily in making parcel shipping faster, more automated, and easier to manage. Freight hasn’t always received the same treatment.That divide may have been manageable when freight represented an occasional exception. But with nearly four out of five merchants now shipping freight, it increasingly looks like a core part of the operation that has simply remained disconnected from the systems around it.The opportunity isn’t just to find better freight rates. It’s to eliminate the idea that freight and parcel need to operate as separate businesses inside the same company.The merchants that bring those workflows together can reduce manual handoffs, improve visibility, and create a more consistent process across the full range of shipments they need to move.This story was produced by ShipStation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	5 reasons why enterprise AI implementations fail If you’ve felt the pace of AI innovation is surpassing your ability to keep up, you’re not alone. A recent survey of 2,000 CIOs and CTOs across 33 countries found that 70% of respondents felt their teams were deploying AI faster than IT could track.These numbers are often read as evidence that GenAI technology is not ready for the enterprise. Foundation models improve almost quarterly, resolving previous issues each time. What's inhibiting organizations' ability to scale GenAI implementations is their ability to build systems around frontier models, including governance and data strategy. Additionally, the teams’ understanding of the technology determines whether a deployment delivers value or becomes a sunk cost.Ironclad shares some of the recurring mistakes organizations make when trying to use GenAI and the implementations to fix them. 1. Treating foundation models as universal toolsThe instinct to route every task through the largest available model is understandable, given its capabilities. But conflating capability with efficiency is a costly mistake. A recent Gartner survey found that only 28%of AI infrastructure projects deliver the promised return, and one in five failed outright because they were “overly ambitious or poorly scoped.” Matching a model to a task’s complexity and risk profile is a critical step for delivering better ROI.Extraction of a contract’s data from a complex legal risk analysis are two applications that require different models because of the associated work, risk, and validation. Could a powerful model deliver on both tasks? Probably, but that’s the wrong question to ask. The right question: "Which model delivers the best ROI for a given task?”2. Underspecified objectives, i.e.what AI should and shouldn't doGenerative AI operates probabilistically and must be used accordingly. When you give a model an open-ended objective without constraints, it will likely take the path of least resistance to satisfy it, and that path may diverge significantly from what you intended.Research shows that detailed prompts with structured guidelines will generate more accurate results. When tuning models using methods like Reinforcement Learning, where AI systems improve through iterative feedback, a model's improvement is tied to clear goals, as well as what not to do. For complex enterprise work, building production-ready systems should include reference documents, boundary conditions, and explicit constraints that give models the necessary context.3. Building feedback loops around the wrong dataUnlike previous software, GenAI tools are shaped through interaction data: Every prompt, correction, and accepted output teaches the system what "good" looks like. But that learning loop only works if the data collected is representative of the full range of intended applications.If an enterprise’s finance team uses an agentic expense management tool primarily for one region's spending patterns, the system learns specific tax codes, vendor classifications, and reporting requirements that differ significantly from those used in global applications. Unaware of this training, the team inadvertently builds a compounding deficiency with the tool’s applicability.It’s critical to assess AI tools against the full scope of work your team actually does. To ensure feedback loops share the right data, it's important to monitor inputs and regularly evaluate the tool’s outputs.4. Relying on one model for both creation and verificationAs AI-generated code and content scale beyond what any team can manually review, engineering organizations are building verification models to check the output of generation models. This layered approach is architecturally sound, but only when the verification model is genuinely independent of the generation model.Using the same provider's model to generate and verify output is the equivalent of seeking a second medical opinion from the same doctor. Models from different providers, trained on different datasets with different methodologies, carry different biases. Cross-provider verification introduces the randomization needed to surface errors that single-model confidence will mask.5. Ignoring hidden errors in the technologyThe wide gap between what these models can do and how they’re applied is certainly a factor for enterprises’ failed attempts, as the Gartner report illustrated. When developing software for past mobile or cloud technologies, an incorrectly structured push notification or cloud deployment generated a failure notice, but that's not the case with GenAI. Even poorly framed inputs will yield seemingly plausible outputs, hiding the underlying structural issues.Closing the gap requires teams across an enterprise to have operational fluency with the technology. Designers, engineers, and product managers should all have equal footing. Otherwise, engineers, agentically coding, are constantly seeking new tasks, while designers and product managers inefficiently wire together new features.What these mistakes shareThese five mistakes all stem from treating GenAI as a technology problem, but it’s actually a systems problem. The models are the easiest component to improve. Governance, data discipline, and organizational adaptation are where value is actually created or destroyed. Successfully scaling GenAI usage starts with teaching and building the understanding of how to use the technology, because without it, better technology only scales the same mistakes faster.This story was produced by Ironclad and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	ADD vs. ADHD: Is there a difference? What parents and other adults need to know The confusion between ADD and ADHD affects millions of families trying to understand attention-related challenges. Parents often wonder if their child has ADD or ADHD, while adults question whether their childhood diagnosis still applies under current medical terminology.This distinction matters more than you might think. Using outdated terms can create confusion during medical appointments, insurance claims, and school accommodation meetings. Doctronic explains the current classification system to help you communicate effectively with healthcare providers and access the right treatment options.Key takeawaysADD is now considered an outdated term. ADHD is the official medical diagnosis with three subtypes.Inattentive ADHD (formerly called ADD) focuses on attention difficulties without hyperactivity.Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD involves restlessness and impulsive behaviors but fewer attention problems.Combined ADHD presents both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms together.What Are ADD and ADHD? Understanding Current Medical TerminologyADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder, was the original term used in psychiatric manuals until 1987. This classification separated attention problems from hyperactivity, creating categories like "ADD with hyperactivity" and "ADD without hyperactivity." However, medical understanding has evolved significantly since then.ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) became the official diagnosis in 1987 and remains the current medical standard today. This change wasn't just cosmetic — it reflected new research showing that attention and hyperactivity symptoms are more interconnected than originally thought. The modern ADHD diagnosis encompasses three distinct presentations: inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type.Many healthcare providers and families still use "ADD" colloquially when referring to attention problems without obvious hyperactivity. While understandable, this can create confusion during medical consultations. When discussing symptoms with your doctor, it's helpful to use current ADHD terminology.The shift to ADHD terminology also acknowledges that hyperactivity can manifest internally as restlessness or racing thoughts, not just external fidgeting or movement.When ADD vs. ADHD Terminology Matters MostUnderstanding current terminology becomes crucial in several important situations. School IEP meetings and 504 plan discussions require precise ADHD language for proper accommodations. Special education teams need to document specific ADHD presentations to justify classroom modifications, extended test time, or behavioral support plans.Insurance claims and medical records exclusively use ADHD diagnostic codes from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Using outdated ADD terminology on forms or during phone calls with insurance representatives can create processing delays or coverage denials. Healthcare billing systems recognize specific ADHD subtypes but may not process older ADD classifications correctly.Research studies and clinical trials specify ADHD presentations when determining participant eligibility. If you're interested in new treatments or contributing to ADHD research, understanding your specific subtype helps match you with appropriate studies. This precision also matters for accessing specialized treatment programs.Adult workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act reference specific ADHD presentations in legal documentation. Employers and human resources departments need current diagnostic language to implement reasonable accommodations like flexible scheduling, written instructions, or modified work environments. Whether using telehealth to help with adhd treatment or in-person care, using proper terminology ensures smoother communication with all healthcare providers.How ADHD Subtypes Work in Modern DiagnosisModern ADHD diagnosis relies on specific symptom criteria for each presentation type. Inattentive ADHD requires six or more symptoms of inattention lasting at least six months. These include difficulty sustaining attention in tasks, frequent careless mistakes, seeming not to listen when spoken to directly, and struggling to organize activities.Hyperactive-impulsive ADHD needs six or more hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms for the same duration. Common signs include fidgeting with hands or feet, leaving seats inappropriately, running or climbing excessively, talking excessively, and blurting out answers before questions are completed.Combined ADHD meets the full criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive presentations simultaneously. This is the most common ADHD subtype, affecting roughly 60-70% of people diagnosed with ADHD. Symptoms must be present before age 12 and significantly impair functioning in at least two settings, such as home and school.Healthcare providers use standardized rating scales and behavioral observations to assess symptom severity. The diagnosis process often involves input from multiple sources, including parents, teachers, and sometimes the individuals themselves. Whether seeking urgent care help with mental health concerns or specialized ADHD evaluation, thorough assessment ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.Recognizing Symptoms Across Different ADHD PresentationsInattentive ADHD symptoms often appear as daydreaming, losing important items like homework or keys, avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort, and making frequent careless mistakes in schoolwork. Children with this presentation may seem quiet or withdrawn in classroom settings, leading to delayed identification compared to their hyperactive peers.Hyperactive symptoms manifest differently across age groups. Young children might climb furniture inappropriately, run when walking is expected, or struggle to play quietly. Teenagers and adults often experience internal restlessness, excessive talking, or difficulty engaging in leisure activities calmly.Impulsive behaviors include interrupting conversations, difficulty waiting for turns in games or lines, making hasty decisions without considering consequences, and blurting out inappropriate comments. These symptoms can strain relationships and create social challenges across various environments.Combined presentation shows fluctuating patterns of both attention and hyperactivity-impulsivity challenges throughout the day. A child might struggle with focus during morning math class but display hyperactive behavior during afternoon recess. Adults might experience attention difficulties at work while showing impulsive decision-making in personal relationships. Understanding these patterns helps families and educators provide appropriate support to help individuals succeed in school and other environments.ADD vs. ADHD: Diagnostic ComparisonThe evolution from ADD to ADHD reflects significant advances in understanding attention-related disorders. Here's how the old and new systems compare: Doctronic Research shows that what was once called "ADD without hyperactivity" often involves subtle hyperactive symptoms like internal restlessness, racing thoughts, or emotional reactivity. The current system better captures these experiences while maintaining clear diagnostic categories.Modern ADHD understanding emphasizes executive function challenges rather than just attention span problems. This includes difficulties with working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control that affect daily functioning beyond traditional "attention" measures.Frequently Asked QuestionsIs ADD still a valid medical diagnosis in 2024?No, ADD is no longer an official medical diagnosis. Healthcare providers now use ADHD with specific subtypes (inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, or combined). While some people still say "ADD" informally, medical records and treatment plans use current ADHD terminology for accuracy and proper documentation.Can adults have inattentive ADHD without childhood hyperactivity?Yes, many adults receive inattentive ADHD diagnoses without obvious childhood hyperactivity. Girls and women particularly may have been missed in childhood because inattentive symptoms are less disruptive than hyperactive behaviors. Adult evaluation focuses on current symptoms and retrospective childhood history.Does insurance cover ADHD treatment regardless of subtype?Most insurance plans cover ADHD treatment, including medication, therapy, and evaluations for all subtypes when medically necessary. Coverage depends on your specific plan benefits rather than ADHD subtype. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications, particularly newer or brand-name options.What's the difference between ADHD medication for inattentive vs hyperactive types?ADHD medications (stimulants and non-stimulants) work similarly across all subtypes by improving dopamine and norepinephrine function. Dosing and timing might be adjusted based on individual symptom patterns, but the same medications treat all ADHD presentations effectively. Mental health medication decisions depend on individual response rather than subtype alone.How do doctors determine which ADHD subtype someone has?Doctors use standardized rating scales, clinical interviews, and behavioral observations from multiple sources. They count specific symptoms in inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive categories, assess impairment levels, and review developmental history. The subtype reflects which symptom category predominates, though individuals may show mixed presentations over time. The Bottom LineUnderstanding the difference between ADD and ADHD terminology helps you navigate modern healthcare and educational systems more effectively. While ADD was the original term used until 1987, ADHD is now the official diagnosis with three distinct presentations: inattentive (formerly called ADD), hyperactive-impulsive, and combined types. This evolution reflects a better understanding of how attention and hyperactivity symptoms interconnect and affect daily functioning. Using current ADHD terminology ensures clear communication with healthcare providers, schools, and insurance companies while accessing appropriate treatment and accommodations for yourself or your loved ones.This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to cope after losing someone to suicide There aren’t many losses in life that compare to grief after suicide. It’s intense, unique, and devastating. Many people can’t understand this type of grief unless they’ve experienced it themselves. Suicide grief is complicated and can be more isolating than other forms of grief. Your pain might feel so deep that it seems like you’ll never find a way through. The truth is, there’s no “right” way to experience suicide grieving, but there are ways to care for yourself as you start to heal.If you or someone you love is trying to navigate grief after a suicide, Talkspace offers healthy coping tools to help you get through this time.Give Yourself Permission to Feel EverythingOne of the most important things about healing from a loss like this is that you accept it’s OK for you to feel whatever you’re feeling. Feelings aren’t forever, and there’s no formula for how to walk through suicide grief. It’s vital that you give yourself permission to feel anything and everything you are.The range of emotions that can follow such a loss can be wildly unpredictable. Research shows that losing someone to suicide can cause shame, blame, and feelings of judgment. You might be angry one minute and ashamed or embarrassed the next. You may wake up feeling guilty about what you did—or didn’t—say or do, and go to bed confused because you have a sense of relief. Whatever you feel during this time, know that your feelings are valid and important.“When someone loses a person to suicide, they may feel a range of emotions such as anger, guilt, relief (especially if they believe the person was suffering), or confusion because nothing seems to make sense,” says Talkspace therapist Famous Erwin LMHC, LPC. “It’s important to let them know that these emotions are normal and do not mean they are a bad person. Grief is not simple, and there is no one right way to feel. When a person expresses their emotions, it reveals what’s going on inside them—and that’s a key part of healing.”Let Go of the “Why” (When You’re Ready)There’s no timeline for grief. Learning how to cope with a suicide loss is a process, and a big part of it involves being able to let go of the why.Trying to understand someone’s decision to end their life can be agonizing. You can’t predict or rush when or how it’ll happen. One day, though, you will be able to free yourself from the burden of needing to understand. You may never fully understand their decision, but coming to terms with this is a powerful part of your healing after a loved one dies by suicide.“As a counselor, I often encourage clients to begin by naming the uncertainty they're sitting with,” Erwin says. “ Acknowledging ‘I don’t have all the answers’ can ease the pressure to resolve the unresolvable. I help them practice self-compassion and focus on what they can control, like daily structure or meaningful routines, while gently normalizing that some questions, especially in grief may remain unanswered. Together, we explore ways to stay grounded in the present moment, create meaning in small ways, and lean into safe relationships for support and healing.”Talk About Your Loved One and Your GriefThe American Psychological Association (APA) discusses the importance of talking about your loved one's death. Openly sharing memories and emotions helps you process the reality of death, rather than avoiding it. Avoidance may feel protective in the moment, but it can intensify loneliness, strain your connection with others, and slow down the grieving process. By naming your grief and speaking about your loved one, you make space for support, meaning, and emotional release.Create a Ritual or Tribute That Honors Their LifeIt feels good to honor a loved one. Find comfort in celebrating the good things you remember about them. Do things to celebrate the connection you had with them and their impact on others. It can be as simple as getting together for an annual gathering with family, lighting a candle for them on future birthdays, planting a tree in their memory, or even writing them a letter every so often.Rituals help you feel connected, even after a loss. It reminds you how special they were and that they’re still in your heart. There’s no right or wrong way to have a tribute to honor someone’s life. All that matters is whatever you plan feels meaningful to you.If you’re overwhelmed at the idea of planning a tribute, think about things they loved, that made them happy, or that you enjoyed doing together. Small acts of remembrance can help you feel close to them, even years after their passing.Make Space for Self-CareSelf-care is a critical part of learning how to cope with the suicide of a loved one. Being aware of your own needs and taking steps to care for yourself ensures you have the strength to heal.Remembering to do the little things—like eating, sleeping, and sometimes, just getting out of bed—can be incredibly difficult as you recover from the death of a loved one. If you’re struggling with your basic self-care routine or daily functioning, be kind to yourself.Grief is complex, messy, and challenging. In the moments when you feel like you can’t manage, focus on the basics: rest, nourishment, and gentle movement. If all you have the strength for is showering one day, you’re doing enough. If it’s all you can manage to make a bowl of cereal, that’s enough, too.Simple ways to practice self-care when you’re grieving include:Going for a walkTaking a bath or showerGoing to bedMaking a simple meal, like toast or soupAsking for help from a friend or family memberMeditatingDoing yogaJoining a grief support groupFind Support from People Who Understand Suicide LossFew things are more powerful than connecting with someone who understands suicide grief. It can be someone who’s also lost a family member or loved one to suicide, a support group, or anyone who understands where you are emotionally and physically. Finding a safe space to share what you’re feeling and listen to others will help you feel understood and less alone as you learn how to manage grief.According to research, participants of peer support groups for suicide bereavement report reduced grief and significant improvement in overall well-being.Work with a Therapist or Grief CounselorSurviving a suicide loss can be incredibly difficult to do alone. Working with a therapist or grief counselor ensures you have the tools you need to heal. A professional who’s trained in suicide bereavement can help you process the complex emotions and feelings you’re likely experiencing. They can help you navigate your trauma and teach you healthy coping skills that support your recovery process.If it feels like your grief is all-consuming or too much to handle on your own, it’s OK. You’re not alone. Reaching out for help is empowering—it’s a sign of strength, not something to feel weak about. Through tailored grief therapy techniques, a grief therapist will help you make sense of your feelings and honor the memory of your loved one. They can help you find a path forward, even if it feels impossible right now.“With suicide loss survivors, I often use a combination of grief-focused therapy and trauma-informed care to help them process complex emotions like guilt, anger, and confusion,” Erwin says. “Techniques like narrative therapy allow clients to share their story and find meaning, while grounding exercises help manage overwhelming feelings. I also emphasize creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where all emotions are valid and healing can unfold at the client’s pace.“Accept That Healing Takes TimeGrief is a journey you can’t rush. Surviving a suicide loss is not a linear process. You can feel completely “normal” one day, like you’re making progress and healing, only to feel like you can’t function the next. Your pain will be daunting and all-encompassing at times, and that’s completely normal. Be patient with yourself and accept that the only thing you can rely on is the fact that healing takes time. You might still have difficult days, even months or years later.It’s worth noting that, sometimes, dealing with loss evolves into what’s known as complicated grief. Also called persistent complex bereavement disorder, complicated grief describes painful feelings and emotions that last more than a year after a loss. If you’re carrying pain from suicide grief, and it’s been over a year, and you just can’t see a way out, it might be time to seek professional help. Healing from complicated grief can happen, but you might need to seek counseling or therapy to get there.Take Breaks from Grief When You Need ToIt sounds strange, but you might need to take a break from your grief. Of course, this doesn’t mean forgetting what happened or pretending that you’re over the loss, but it’s OK to give yourself permission to step away for a little while. Finding small moments of peace will help you heal and recover. You can watch a movie, go to lunch or coffee with a friend, or do a hobby you enjoy. Over time, doing things outside of your grief will become easier.Taking a break from your heartache doesn’t mean you’re forgetting about the loss. It also doesn’t mean you’re moving on too soon. It just means you’re allowing yourself the space and time you need to heal. At first, you might feel guilty for enjoying yourself or laughing, but moments like these are part of healing, and they’re essential for your well-being.You’re Not Alone—Support Is Always AvailableGrieving after suicide can be a lonely, isolating experience, but support and help are available. Healing is an ongoing process, so it’s all right if you’re struggling right now. The most important thing to remember is to ask for help, whether it’s from a friend, a grief counselor, a support group, or a trained mental health professional.This story was produced by Talkspace and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	A rural county banned renewables. It’s having second thoughts Jeff Hough did not pull any punches. What his fellow Republican county commissioners were about to do, he said to the packed courthouse, would violate America’s founding ideals. He quoted the Declaration of Independence to make his case.The three-person commission was about to vote on an ordinance that would ban utility-scale solar and wind development in Bannock County, Idaho.“We cannot deny the entire county the opportunity to exercise their property rights,” Hough said. “That goes against the principles this country was founded on.”A few minutes after Hough’s emphatic speech, the ordinance passed by a 2-1 vote. Hough was the lone dissenter.Since that consequential vote in March 2024, Hough has become the chair of the county commission and has dedicated himself to overturning that ordinance. He will soon have a chance to make that happen. This fall, Hough and the other two commissioners are set to vote on an ordinance with new language that would allow the development of solar and wind, along with nuclear energy, in the county.The Bannock County vote is a test case of whether — and how — a community can revisit its assumptions about the costs and benefits of clean energy and decide to welcome development it once swore off.In 2025, nearly 1 in 4 U.S. counties had some kind of ban, moratorium, or impediment to clean energy development, up from 15% of counties in 2023. More than 60% of counties with bans are rural, according to a Daily Yonder and Canary Media analysis of data from USA Today and the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia University. (The Daily Yonder defines “rural” using criteria from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.) Julia Tilton // The Daily Yonder Bucking this national trend and reversing the ban would put Bannock County back in play at a moment when Idaho needs all the energy it can get. Idaho Power, the state’s largest utility, expects electricity demand to grow by 1 gigawatt by 2030, a roughly 26% leap from current levels.“The need to build stuff now is critical to Idaho’s economic future,” said Aaron Menenberg, the Idaho policy manager for Renewable Northwest, a nonprofit working to decarbonize the region’s grid. “We can’t afford to say no to anything.”Bannock County, nestled in a valley a few hours north of Salt Lake City and 100 miles west of Wyoming’s Teton Range, is a prime location for new power plants. It’s home to the Populus substation, a critical juncture for getting electrons onto the grid and into Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and the Pacific Northwest. Building new power plants near a substation is cheaper, and those savings can help bring down costs for utility customers.But the biggest opportunity for county residents, as Hough sees it, is not utility-bill savings: It’s economic development. In recent years, Bannock County’s population has grown far more slowly than Idaho’s. The county’s rural communities, meanwhile, are watching essential services disappear, and drought worsened by climate change is making it difficult for family farms to stay afloat.Hough believes renewables would bring money into the community. Bannock County’s neighbors offer local proof: In 2024, projects in nearby Power and Bingham counties generated $909,000 and $639,000 in tax revenue, respectively. Hough wants to send a message — to the renewables industry and others — that Bannock County is “open for business,” too.“Rural America is in a transition state,” Hough said from his office in Pocatello, the county seat, in July. “How do we make or help rural America … transition to this new way of life, so that they can thrive and prosper?”Not everyone shares Hough’s vision of prosperity. In south Bannock County, Hough’s campaign has met with fierce opposition. Two camps exist: On one side are residents who are willing to lease their own land to solar energy developers or stand by their neighbors’ right to do so. On the other are those who are skeptical of renewables and believe that leasing land to developers is equivalent to selling out — many of them do, however, support nuclear.Steve Criddle, a third-generation farmer and lifelong resident of south Bannock County, voiced his support for solar in 2024 before the ban passed. He described the situation today simply: “It’s confrontational.”Bannock County’s moratorium on solar and wind stemmed from an unlikely source: Hough himself.It was the fall of 2023, and he had just attended a conference of the Idaho Association of Counties in Boise.At the conference, the Lava Ridge Wind Project, a 1-GW development slated for more than 57,000 acres of federal land in southern Idaho, dominated the conversation. County leaders from around the state were concerned about clean energy developers running roughshod over their communities. (President Donald Trump’s Interior Department canceled Lava Ridge in August 2025.)The discussion got Hough thinking. Months before the conference, he had learned that several developers, including Chicago-based Hecate Energy and Moab, Utah-based Balanced Rock Power, were approaching landowners about solar projects in Bannock County.When Hough returned from Boise, the cautionary tale of Lava Ridge fresh in his mind, he took action.“I realized that we didn’t have any kind of ordinance,” Hough said. “So I knew they’d come in and do whatever they wanted.”On Oct. 12, 2023, spearheaded by Hough, the county commissioners voted unanimously to enact a six-month moratorium on large-scale energy projects. The idea was not to ban solar and wind, but simply to give the county time to regulate the developments and ensure they balanced economic opportunity with responsible land stewardship. A public hearing on the topic was set for the following February, and the commissioners would vote on the future of the moratorium in March.But Hough’s moratorium took on a life of its own. In the months that followed, a group of concerned residents organized to make it permanent. Otto Kitsinger Rebecca Falcon, above, led the charge. A decades-long resident of Downey, a town in south Bannock County, Falcon had been approached by Balanced Rock in September 2023 about leasing a portion of her 80 acres for solar. Appalled, she turned the company away. But Balanced Rock’s proposed Harmon Solar Project (aka Harmon I), a 300-megawatt solar facility with a 1,200-megawatt-hour on-site battery energy storage system, included her neighbors’ land. Stopping it would take more than just Falcon saying no.Falcon and another neighbor, Dez Hauser, who had also turned away Balanced Rock, encouraged other concerned community members to show up to the February 2024 public hearing about the future of the moratorium.By the time the hearing rolled around, residents had sorted themselves into two groups: for solar and against it. The meeting attracted such interest that it was moved from the county courthouse to a local high school auditorium in south Bannock County. The venue was still packed.More than two dozen speakers, nearly all of them from south Bannock County, showed up to say their piece. The vast majority testified in opposition to solar.The commissioners convened the next month to decide what to do with the moratorium. Hough voted to repeal it. The other two commissioners voted to extend it. The commissioners framed it as an additional pause to study the potential effects of large-scale renewable energy development in the county. Yet as the controversy mounted through the spring and summer of 2024, the county declined to take further action.The ban stayed in place. Falcon, Hauser, and the other opponents had won.Dale Lish, a grain farmer based in Downey, was frustrated with the decision. Recently retired from a career at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Lish became familiar with solar while working on projects in Idaho and Washington through the Rural Energy for America Program. He spoke in favor of the energy source at the same hearing where Falcon and Hauser expressed their concerns.“The approach was just no to everything, which bothered me,” Lish said of the county’s decision, in a June interview on his property. “A straight-out ban — I don’t think that’s American. I think we, as private-property owners, ought to have a chance to do what we want within reason.”In 2023, Lish signed a one-year contract with Hecate to option about 400 acres of his land for solar development. Hecate declined to renew the contract in 2024 because of the county’s ordinance.The company has since pulled out of the county altogether. Representatives from Hecate did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Otto Kitsinger For the two and a half years since that March vote, Hough has been beating the drum of private-property rights while also trying to educate the community on Idaho’s power needs and how they might be met in Bannock County.While the commission won’t vote until later this fall on the new ordinance, which is still undergoing public review, at least one of Hough’s colleagues may have changed his tune. Ernie Moser, an incumbent who supported the ban in 2024, said in an interview in June that his fears about solar and wind are “not as big” as they were two years ago. Still, Moser, who’s retiring from the commission at the end of this year, stressed that he wants “to do it right” when it comes to revisiting the county’s energy policy. The other commissioner, Ken Bullock, declined to comment.May’s primary elections offered another indication of the county’s divided views. In the Republican primary, Hough faced a challenger from south Bannock County with an anti-solar platform, and though he won his race by 14 percentage points overall, his opponent captured 70% of the vote in Downey. No Democrat is running in the race, so Hough won’t face competition in the November general election.This year’s results mirror those of 2024, when former county commissioner John Crowder, who voted for the ban in March of that year, won big in Downey but lost to Ken Bullock, an ally of Hough’s.“In south Bannock County, it’s a supermajority of residents that do not want this,” Crowder said about solar development. Otto Kitsinger Steve Criddle, above, can trace his family’s roots in Downey back to 1876, when his ancestors first filed paperwork for water rights. His grandfather farmed grain, including wheat. Criddle’s father did the same. He’s kept the agricultural heritage alive himself, but because of a changing climate, grain farming is no longer enough to sustain him.“We don’t get enough moisture anymore,” Criddle said. The fields where he grows crops without irrigation now hardly produce enough to make ends meet. He’s turned some of his land over to cattle grazing and has worked odd jobs over the years to hold on to the farm.On a sunny day in late June, Criddle drove down a dirt road in his wife’s pickup truck. He was headed to one of his alfalfa fields. Three years ago, he said, the field produced some 800 bales of hay. This year, it produced only a dozen.“The drought’s been tough,” Criddle said. Before last year, he’d never had to buy hay for his cows. This year, he’ll likely have to buy hay again, as more than 87% of the county is now experiencing extreme drought conditions after a winter with record-low snowfall.Lish, who also grows crops without irrigation, said that wells in the valley are limited.“That’s the Achilles’ heel of this area. There’s just a lack of groundwater, and then, of course, sparse rainfall,” he said. To accumulate enough moisture to grow wheat, Lish leaves his fields fallow every other year, allowing the soil to stock up on water.While Criddle and Lish have fought to hang on to their land over the past six decades, climate change and the loss of small-scale farming have reshaped their community.“You don’t have family farms anymore,” said Criddle’s wife, Keedrin. “The families can’t survive on a farm.”As neighbors sold their land to corporations or moved out of Downey altogether, the town’s services have struggled to stay open. Over the years, the rural hospital closed, along with the town’s bank, pharmacy, movie theater, grocery store, and farm-equipment shop. Gone too are the dairies and granary. Otto Kitsinger So when representatives from Hecate knocked on the Criddles’ door in 2023 proposing a lease for solar development, Steve and Keedrin heard them out. And while the couple didn’t sign a contract, they realized how such a lease could bring them a stable source of income, which they could use to hire help and reinvest in the long-term sustainability of the farm.The Criddles now have 11 grandchildren, with another one on the way. Steve often thinks about what he’ll leave for the next generations.“I don’t want my kids to have to work this hard,” he said.Lish, who did sign a contract with Hecate, said the decision didn’t come easily. But, he added, it would have been “kind of irresponsible” not to consider the opportunity. With solar, the per-acre income projections were four to five times higher than with wheat alone, Lish said.“Lots of people have lots of opinions on what you’re going to do to your ground. I get that, and I can appreciate it. But we love this land too, and we’re not going to do something that’s going to be harmful,” Lish said. “We’re just looking at something that’s going to help us continue on to multiple generations.”A few years earlier, Lytton Bastian, below, another farmer in Downey, had found himself contemplating the same questions. Otto Kitsinger Bastian, who was born and raised in Bannock County, is a multigenerational farmer and father of six. He owns over 2,000 acres in the valley. Balanced Rock was interested in 840 of those acres adjacent to the Populus substation, a parcel Bastian currently uses as a gravel pit and as cattle pasture for a month each fall and spring. In 2021, he signed a five-year contract with Balanced Rock that includes modest quarterly payments. If the ban lifts and Balanced Rock installs solar, the payments would increase.Bastian’s neighbor is Falcon. She criticized his decision to lease to Balanced Rock, saying that he sold out to make more money than he could with agriculture.“My biggest issue is that it’s all ag land,” Falcon said. “They’ll take the grain; they’ll take the hay; they’ll take the cattle; they’ll take it all.”Bastian said he only went through with the contract because Balanced Rock wanted his “least productive piece of ground.” An irrigated parcel would have been out of the question, he said. “Any normal farmer will not sell out good prime ground, because that’s hard to come by.”At the February 2024 hearing at the high school, Bastian was among the few local farmers who spoke in favor of solar.For Bastian, the stakes are getting higher. His contract with Balanced Rock is up at the end of this year. He thinks the renewal hinges on the county overturning the ban. Otherwise, he fears that the company could go the way of Hecate and look elsewhere.“If the ban is lifted, the short answer is yes, we will move forward with our project,” said Katarina Bagri, a senior manager of development at Balanced Rock who’s leading the Harmon Solar Project, which includes Bastian’s land. “If there’s still a ban, there’s not many options, so we’ll just have to see what are the options left.”It’s not just individual landowners who stand to miss out if the ban continues. Property tax payments from solar development would also deliver revenue to help the town bring back much-needed local services, like a grocery store. Balanced Rock, anticipating that the ban would be lifted, offered the city of Downey $100,000 in direct payments last fall via a community benefit program.If Balanced Rock is unable to build, the city will not receive this money. Hough addressed this directly in an op-ed published in the local paper in February. Counties with bans in place, he wrote, “will watch the projects — and the money — go elsewhere.”Just outside Downey, the northbound portion of Interstate 15 stretches over a pass and opens onto a sprawling valley. Golden fields give way to towering peaks. It’s part of why Falcon, who grew up in Utah, moved to Idaho: The landscape is all mountains and rolling hills. The idea that solar panels could become part of the view is unthinkable.“I think, my goodness, why do you have to build it where we live?” Falcon said.Falcon and her husband, Rudy, bought their 80-acre parcel of land in Downey more than three decades ago. That was before the Populus substation was built within view of their house. Now, transmission lines crisscross their land and that of their neighbors.“It is the ugliest thing on this planet,” Falcon said about the substation. “I wish it wasn’t there.”In the coming years, two new high-voltage transmission lines will join the existing lines running through Populus. They’re part of the yearslong Energy Gateway project being built by PacifiCorp, one of the largest utilities in the West. The goal is to improve the region’s power transportation and reliability as energy demand grows, said Jonathan Whitesides, a spokesperson for Rocky Mountain Power, a division of PacifiCorp that operates in Idaho.As much as Falcon doesn’t like looking at the substation, she understands the need for transporting power. Rudy works for the Bonneville Power Administration and is often on the road in Washington and Oregon building substations himself. But solar, to Falcon, is a different story. She said that she struggles with the amount of land it requires to produce power, a talking point that’s been popularized by the fossil fuel industry.She and Hauser, her Downey neighbor, have continued to speak out against solar since the 2024 ban. Hauser is active on community Facebook pages, and Falcon runs an email chain to share information with friends and neighbors. “I wasn’t willing to be quiet about it,” Hauser said.For years, the women have regularly filed public records requests with Bannock County and the federal government. That’s how they discovered that a month after Bannock County voted to maintain its ban, Balanced Rock applied for federal authorization for a second solar project, called Harmon II. The project, like Harmon I, was slated for 300 MW, and its application outlined solar and battery energy storage development on approximately 1,300 acres of public land administered by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in Bannock County. Harmon II was proposed on land adjacent to Harmon I, which had stalled because of the county’s ban.In July, Bagri from Balanced Rock acknowledged that the company had been sitting on the application. “All of our focus is on the private land, [the] initial 300 megawatts. So once we make progress with that, we’ll figure out whether we want to pursue an expansion,” she said. In August, Balanced Rock officially withdrew its application for Harmon II.Falcon and Hauser saw the second project as evidence of a lack of transparency from the developer.“The public has a right to know this will change this valley for 50 years,” Falcon said. “We will have left that mess to our children and grandchildren, because who’s going to guarantee who owns it in 50 years to decommission it and clean it up? You can’t make those kinds of guarantees.”Bagri said the guardrails the county was considering in early 2024 — which are now baked into the ordinance the commissioners will vote on this fall — include provisions on decommissioning. The draft ordinance stipulates that in order to get projects permitted, developers must pay into a bond and submit a plan for the removal of all energy infrastructure at the end of the project’s lifetime. Bagri said these plans involve restoring project sites “back to as close to preconstruction condition as possible.” Today, project lifetimes range from 35 to 40 years, she said.Still, for Hauser and Falcon, the feeling of disempowerment persists. Falcon pointed to other counties across the state, including Ada County, home to Boise, that have taken matters into their own hands to “put a limit” on development. In Ada County, solar is now prohibited on prime farmland, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In southeast Idaho, some of Bannock County’s neighbors, like Caribou County, have also banned utility-scale solar, though others, such as Power and Bingham counties, have embraced it.“If you don’t build in the brakes, they will run you over,” Falcon said.For all their ire toward solar, Falcon and Hauser see promise in nuclear energy. That puts them in the majority: In January, Bannock County surveyed residents to gauge public opinion on nuclear energy. Over 700 people responded, with 90% indicating favorable views toward the industry.Hough was surprised by the results. “I didn’t think our community could agree on anything,” he said.Southeast Idaho is home to Idaho National Laboratory (INL), which leads the nation’s advanced nuclear research. As part of the Trump administration’s embrace of nuclear energy, the lab was given priority in May 2025 to expedite construction of on-site microreactor test beds. The U.S. Department of Energy announced in July that INL will receive $60 million as part of a public-private partnership to use AI in nuclear energy development and operation. Buzzy nuclear startup Oklo aims to build its first fission reactor there.Plus, next door in western Wyoming, the Bill Gates-backed TerraPower is building what it hopes will be the country’s first utility-scale advanced nuclear power plant. The project, now under construction in rural Kemmerer, is expected to be completed in 2030 and will supply PacifiCorp with up to 500 MW of power.The excitement around INL and the TerraPower project leaves many in Bannock County wondering when their big opportunity might come along. In July, the Bannock County commissioners hosted a public educational forum with INL to discuss how the county could get involved with small modular reactors (SMRs), microreactors, and nuclear manufacturing.Falcon and Hauser were both in attendance. They said they’d much rather see the development of nuclear energy in Bannock County than renewables. “If you can have 30 acres with a semitruck-size nuclear plant on it, why wouldn’t you do that? Why would you give up thousands of acres to solar?” Falcon said.But the construction of SMRs and the broader nuclear revival touted by Trump remain highly uncertain prospects.Only two next-generation nuclear projects in the U.S. have received construction permits: TerraPower’s Kemmerer 1 and Kairos Power’s Hermes 2 reactor in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Neither has an operating license, however.Even if more projects obtain licenses from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission amid Trump’s push to streamline permitting, the SMR industry is far from a sure thing. Most companies are proposing first-of-a-kind projects rife with engineering and economic unknowns. There’s little to no supply chain for the type of fuel many SMRs are designed to use. The United States’ first fully licensed SMR project was canceled in 2023 over cost concerns. Only two commercial SMRs operate in the world today — one in Russia and one in China.Dustin Manwaring, a Republican state representative for Pocatello and a land-use and development attorney for Balanced Rock, is an ally of Hough’s. He said the commissioner wants to usher in a future where Bannock County leads Idaho’s burgeoning nuclear industry.“[It’s] a worthy, noble thing to do,” Manwaring said. “If you take a step away, I don’t know how realistic that is. I love that he’s trying.”In the near term, Hough recognizes that bringing nuclear power to Bannock County could take years. That’s why he doesn’t want to turn down other types of economic development — like solar and wind — in the meantime. “Everybody’s claiming nuclear is the future, which it is, but nuclear is 10 years away, maybe, so you’ve got to have something to help get you there,” Hough said.Some clean energy advocates, like Linda Engle with the Portneuf Resource Council, the region’s environmental nonprofit, are optimistic that the support for nuclear energy could help overturn the ban. “With the nuclear piece in there, hopefully it gets passed,” Engle said.For all the community debate, the future of clean energy in Bannock County ultimately rests on the decision of the three commissioners. To Commissioner Moser, who in 2024 voted in favor of the ban, the choice isn’t black-and-white.Hanging on the walls in Moser’s office are two landscape paintings depicting Idaho’s wilderness. In one, a crisp blue stream is flanked by forest and purple mountain cliffs; in another, two people perch on a log, fishing rods in hand, waiting patiently for a catch. Moser has arranged the paintings, which were created by his now-grown son, so he can see them while sitting at his desk. On another wall, a second pair of paintings depicts the American Revolution. In a snowy forest scene, George Washington kneels beside a horse, praying.Five days before the Fourth of July, Moser sat in his office, considering the paintings. “I love our country, the freedoms that we enjoy — 250 years is amazing,” he said. “God created this for us. I’m a steward now. I’ve been called to take care of it.”It is this ethos that guides Moser, who was born in south Bannock County, as he contemplates the county’s new energy ordinance.Moser’s fears have to do with solar site cleanup and the risks of battery fires. Moser is not alone in these concerns; they are often cited by solar opposition groups, which point to rare but devastating instances of battery fires in California. Such anxieties are also spreading nationwide. In December 2025, the volunteer fire departments in Downey and Lava Hot Springs, another rural community in south Bannock County, sent letters to the county commissioners warning that they were unprepared to fight battery fires and would need special equipment and training to do so.Bagri said Balanced Rock has tried to ease concerns about decommissioning and fire risk. During the numerous public hearings in 2024, representatives from both Hecate and Balanced Rock responded to the community’s concerns. “They addressed every one of those fears head-on, concisely with facts, and I thought they communicated very well,” said E.J. Zita, a rancher in Robin, Idaho, who’s had residential solar on her property for over a decade. But she said the anti-solar camp had dug in. “People didn’t listen; they just didn’t hear it.”Despite his fears, Moser said he understands the weight of his responsibility.That’s why he’s tried to educate himself about Idaho’s energy needs over the past two years. In 2025, Moser visited a 40-MW solar project in neighboring Power County, a 20-minute drive west from Pocatello. The visit was organized for the Bannock County commissioners by Balanced Rock. The same year, Moser and Hough attended the energy academy hosted by Idaho Power in Boise and had conversations with Rocky Mountain Power. Language in Bannock County’s new draft ordinance requires energy developers to help local fire departments with training and equipment for dealing with battery fires.In June, Moser said he recognized that there’s a need for growth in Bannock County. He’s not the only one whose opinion has shifted. Wade Egan, the former chair of the county’s volunteer planning and development council, was “neutral” about the ban passing in 2024. Egan grew up next door to Dale Lish in Downey and now farms around 5,000 acres in the area. He has friends on both sides of the issue.This time around, though, Egan is pro-solar. Echoing Hough, Egan said he sees it as a matter of property rights. “I really do believe the right to control and own personal property is as fundamental as speech,” he said.Moser, meanwhile, is focused on getting things right for future generations. Pointing to the landscape paintings in his office, he spoke about the Idaho wilderness that he wants his son and grandchildren to enjoy.“It’s not a personal choice. It’s hard choices,” Moser said. “We wake up at two o’clock in the morning thinking about them, and it isn’t a simple deal.”This article was co-published with Canary Media, a newsroom covering clean energy.This story was produced by The Daily Yonder and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Are you a DINK? How to manage your money when you don't have kids Are you in a DINK (double income, no kids) household? Whether you and your partner are waiting to expand your family or have no plans for children, being kid-free can impact your finances in a variety of ways. If you fall into the DINK category, take full advantage of this period of your life with these tips from Ally Financial.Financial planning essentials for DINK couplesWhether you have combined finances or keep separate accounts, make the most of your extra funds by being on the same page about budgeting.Setting financial goals togetherAre you saving up for a dream wedding, investing in your retirement or putting money aside for a down payment on a home? Whatever your priorities, it’s important to set financial goals that matter to both you and your partner.Maximizing your two incomesTo make the most of your double income, first determine how much your household earns. Then, review joint expenses, including needs (think rent, utilities, etc.) and wants (like dining out or entertainment). Understanding your full financial picture will help you set realistic goals and determine where you can spend and save.Preparing for the unexpectedYou can’t plan for every possibility, but setting up an emergency fund can help. You’ll want to have easier access to this money, so consider keeping it in a savings account, rather than in investments.Consider life insuranceAdditionally, life insurance is an important piece of creating financial security for you and your partner. Without kids, you might think it isn't as much of a priority, but it can help take care of your significant other financially in the event of your passing.The amount of life insurance you need depends on your life stage, goals and budget. One rule of thumb is to purchase a life insurance policy worth approximately 10 times your income. But you may need more depending on your individual needs.Planning for retirementWithout the costs of kids, DINKs may also have more money to put toward retirement. Depending on your personal, professional and financial goals, that could mean an early retirement. If that is one of your goals, consider contributing a little bit extra from your paycheck.Preparing your legacyEstate planning is an important but sometimes difficult part of planning your financial future. Whereas couples with children might leave their assets to the next generation, DINKs might choose other options like donating to a charity, or leaving assets to family and friends.Free to choose your financial futureDINK status means you have some clear-cut financial benefits: Two incomes and more flexibility with where that money goes. Make sure your budget reflects your priorities and you consider using extra income to plan for unexpected expenses, invest more for retirement and prepare your legacy.This story was produced by Ally Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	DeWitt’s Lincoln Park to host annual Autumn Fest with live music, car show, and family fun The DeWitt Chamber & Development Company will host its free 39th annual Autumn Fest on Sept. 25 and 26 in Lincoln Park, featuring a Friday night movie followed by a Saturday car cruise-in, live music from The Hot Rods, and family activities.
	Future of regional tourism and storytelling takes center stage at Destination QC! 2026 National travel experts and local visionaries will gather on Oct. 29 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at Rhythm City to reveal a fresh strategy for regional economic development and community storytelling, as hosted by Visit Quad Cities

Friday, September 25th, 2026