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

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026
	Pump prices plunge across Iowa DES MOINES, Iowa — Gas prices are finally moving in the right direction for Des Moines drivers — but the road ahead may not be as smooth. According to GasBuddy, the average price for a gallon of gasoline in Des Moines fell 16.3 cents in the past week, bringing the metro average to $3.35 a [...]
	East Moline plans two days of July 4 events East Moline’s fireworks display will begin at dusk at the Rock Island County Fairgrounds on Friday, July 3, with the Dietz Solis band playing from 7-9:15 p.m., according to a news release. On Saturday, July 4, the East Moline Fire Department will hold its annual pancake breakfast from 6:30-11 a.m. at the American Legion. It's $6 [...]
	Three Downtown Muscatine buildings cleared for reentry, business owners and residents await answers A downtown Muscatine business owner and displaced resident are remaining hopeful as inspections continue following building evacuations.
	Mel Foster Co. School of Real Estate is offering a summer series of Iowa pre-license courses Launch your career this summer with Mel Foster Co. School of Real Estate with Iowa pre-license courses.
	Metropolitan Community Church - QC, Davenport, will celebrate composers Bridging the 57th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots with the 250th anniversary of the United States, flutist Paul Mizzi will present "Proud Americans," a recital "celebrating queer American composers" at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at Metropolitan Community Church - QC, 2930 W. Locust St., Davenport, according to a news release. "Music of classical and [...]
	Tattoo business owner displaced by 2023 collapse faces another setback Two tattoo shops in the Village of East Davenport face closure because the district's zoning code doesn't allow tattoo shops. Now, they're trying to change it to keep their businesses.
	Comfortable weather now, but the heat is coming Below average temperatures will continue for the next few days across the Quad Cities. While a few showers are possible today, a better chance arrives tomorrow. Here's your complete 7-day forecast.
	When falling housing prices are good news — and when they're not Denver renters are celebrating falling housing costs. But sometimes cheaper housing is a sign of economic decline. How can you tell the difference?
	Dutch Elm Disease This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.What would a town look like with its clothes off? We Rock Islanders found out in the 1960s.As with towns and cities…
	Iran's president heads to Pakistan as U.S.-Iran teams work on war-ending deal President Masoud Pezeshkian's visit to Islamabad comes as technical teams were working on details of the deal, following high-level negotiations in Switzerland on Monday led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iran's parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf.
	How Trump's 'Complete and Total Endorsement' has reshaped the Republican Party An NPR analysis of more than a thousand Trump endorsements in House, Senate and governor races over the last decade finds the president now picks candidates earlier — and in safer races.
	After losing jobs for posting about Charlie Kirk, some are getting six figure payouts While workers, who were employees in government or public institutions, feel vindicated by how their lawsuits concluded, they are still grappling with the aftermath.
	Trouble getting weight loss drugs covered by insurance? Here's what to know If your doctor prescribes a GLP-1 medication for weight loss but your insurance won't cover it, you have options.
	A red alert over France, and heat that may rewrite the record books France is experiencing scorching heat, with most of the population exposed to extreme temperatures. The heat is expected to last until at least the end of the week.
	QCA Culture Bright Summer Series launches in August The Culture Bright Summer Series runs August 16-23. According to a release from The Cultural Trust, the series is "an eight-day celebration designed to establish the Quad Cities as the most inclusive creative capital in the Midwest." Culture Bright Summer Series focuses on music, art, storytelling, accessibility and community. The series is a collaboration between [...]
	Britain left the EU 10 years ago. Its politics has been an unruly mess Brexit fractured the European Union, and broke British politics. A decade on, millions of voters have deserted the two big parties for alternatives.
	What to know about a cold storage warehouse fire in Los Angeles Firefighters are still battling a blaze at a massive frozen-food storage facility near downtown Los Angeles six days after the fire started.
	Authorities arrest 2 more suspects in planned attack on Trump's UFC show Two more people in Missouri and Washington state have been arrested in connection with the planned attack. Law enforcement officials learned about the possible threat on June 10, four days before the event on the White House's South Lawn.
Monday, June 22nd, 2026
	$2.9 M in federal funds available for Davenport flood mitigation project Davenport could get $2.9 million in federal funds for a flood mitigation project.
	Eagle released back into the wild after being treated for lead poisoning Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab released an eagle back to its natural habitat after treating it for lead poisoning.
	Three Downtown Muscatine buildings cleared for reentry, business owners and residents await answers A downtown Muscatine business owner and displaced resident are remaining hopeful as inspections continue following building evacuations.
	Teenage victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	2027 Missouri Valley Conference Women's Basketball Championship will not be held in the Quad Cities The tournament moved to other cities for 2025 and 2026, but was set to return to Vibrant Arena in 2027. Here's what officials said about the change.
	Iowa joins lawsuit against phasing out single-use plastic products Iowa joined a lawsuit against a California law intended to phase out single-use plastic products. California implemented the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (Senate Bill 54), mandating products can only be sold in California if companies take plastic out of their packaging design. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird says the law imposes [...]
	Lead-poisoned eagle returns to wild after 3 months of recovery in Kewanee Three months ago, when Princeton, Ill., residents Ken and Susan Arbuckle let their dog out early in the morning, they found a bald eagle in their yard. "Susan walked out and she came back to the house and asked me 'How do we get a bald eagle out of our yard?' And I thought, 'What?" [...]
	Federal judge blocks bans on SNAP use for soda A federal judge has blocked bans on the usage of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for soda enacted by the Trump administration.
	Clinton city administrator finalists meet public Clinton residents got a chance to meet three finalists for the next city administrator Monday afternoon. Lou Leone, Joe Gaa and Brian Stineman came to Clinton City Hall for a meet-and-greet session. Leone worked as the city administrator for Harvard, Illinois, for 10 years. He wants to develop more housing to bring people into the [...]
	Vander Veer Stone Fountain to not turn on this year, parks and recreation officials say The Davenport Parks & Recreation Department says they have some disappointing news to share that the Vander Veer Stone Fountain will not turn on this year.
	Walcott woman pushed child outside naked and filmed it deputies say Ware is in the Scott County Jail on a $250,000 cash-only bond. She has a preliminary hearing on July 2.
	Maryland announces fourth measles case of 2026 found in international traveler Maryland health officials renewed their call to vaccinate against measles after a fourth case was confirmed the state this year, in an international traveler who came home with a measles infection. (Photo courtesy Veterans Administration)Health officials this weekend said a fourth measles case has been detected in the state this year, after a Maryland resident living in the Washington, D.C., area contracted the respiratory virus while traveling internationally. It’s the most cases detected in a single year since 2019, when five cases were reported in the state. The Maryland Department of Health announced the first measles case back in April, and all four cases this year were people who had traveled outside the state, two of them internationally. Despite the growing number of cases, Dr. William Moss, a professor with Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, said the trend reflects increases in measles activity across the globe and is not an effective indication of measles activity in Maryland specifically. “We in Maryland are going to have importations of measles cases into our state as long as there are cases occurring elsewhere,” Moss said. “The good news is that we have not had sustained outbreaks or sustained transmission of measles virus.” State health officials announce 2026’s first confirmed case of measles in Maryland He says that the state’s relatively high vaccination rate against measles, with over 96% of Marylanders vaccinated, largely protects it from additional transmission, unlike other states with lower vaccination uptake. Deputy Health Secretary for Public Health Services Dr. Meg Sullivan said in a written statement that vaccinations remain “essential to protecting ourselves, our families, and our communities against measles and other infectious diseases,” and she urged Marylanders to get vaccinated if they are among those who have not already done so. “Talk with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are up to date with all recommended vaccines, including the MMR vaccine,” Sullivan said in the written statement Saturday, referring to the combined vaccination against mumps, measles and rubella. Maryland children are required to receive a series of vaccines, including against measles, before entering kindergarten. But families can opt their children out of those requirement, and a growing number are doing so through nonmedical exemptions. That said, the rate of exemption is still low: Less than 2% of kindergarteners had a nonmedical exemption from required vaccination in the 2024-2025 school year. Meanwhile, health officials are working to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to the virus this month. The department is urging Marylanders who traveled through Washington Dulles International Airport in mid-June to monitor for symptoms of measles, as they may have been exposed to the infected individual. Measles virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the room, potentially exposing a high number of people if passing through a high-foot-traffic such as an airport. The virus can also spread after touching infected surfaces or through direct contact. The individual at the center of the most recent measles case is a Maryland resident in the Washington area who traveled abroad and returned to the states on June 17 through Dulles. Between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m., the individual arrived in Concourse C, took transportation to the International Arrivals Building and passed through the baggage claim area. The individual also went to the Mary’s Center Adams Morgan Clinic in Washington, D.C., that afternoon between 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The health department says Marylanders who may have shared those spaces on June 17 with the infected individual should first confirm their vaccination status. Those with a record of two measles vaccinations, or who were born before 1957, are generally considered protected. But those who are underimmunized at the time of the exposure should contact their health provider or local health departments to see if post-exposure treatments would be beneficial for the potentially exposed individual. Importantly, those who are not immunized and may have come into contact with the infected person should monitor for symptoms in the coming days, as symptoms can develop as soon as seven days after exposure to as late as 21 days. Most people will see symptoms develop 10-14 days after exposure. Measles infection symptoms start with a fever of over 101 degrees, cough, runny nose, red and watering eyes. Days later, the virus’s telltale rash may emerge, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Some who are vaccinated might still develop symptoms if exposed to the virus in what are called “breakthrough cases.” But Moss emphasizes that “vaccination is the key” to avoiding severe infection in those situations as well. “No vaccine is perfect,” Moss said, “but it’s a very effective vaccine, and those individuals, even if they do have a breakthrough case, are going to have a milder disease.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Maryland Matters
	Traffic on 13th Avenue North, Clinton, will be reduced to one lane for construction Beginning Tuesday, June 23, traffic on 13th Avenue North between 11th Street and 14th Street in Clinton will be reduced to one lane because of ongoing construction related to the 13th Avenue North Trail project, a news release says. This temporary lane reduction will be in effect throughout the construction period. Traffic control measures will [...]
	Free admission returns to Figge Art Museum for month of July Your free admission will get you into all four floors of the Figge as well as a full month of programs and activities for adults and children.
	Iowa soybeans blooming and corn silking behind schedule Corn and soybean growth in Iowa is slightly behind pace compared to last year and the five-year average, according to the latest crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
	Cinemark sets box-office record with 'Toy Story 5' Cinemark Holdings, Inc., one of the largest exhibition companies in the world - and with a cineplex in Davenport - has announced its all-time biggest three-day opening weekend domestic box office for a G- or PG-rated film with "Toy Story 5," a news release says. Strong carryover from recent releases like "Disclosure Day" and "Obsession" contributed to Cinemark delivering its [...]
	Moline 250 event to feature music, fireworks and family activities You can join in on the free, family-friendly festivities on July 1 & 2 which will culminate in the city's first Fourth of July fireworks show.
	Next phase of Washington Street resurfacing to begin Tuesday in Burlington Beginning Tuesday, the intersection at Fourth Street will be closed to all vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
	Illinois trailer park evacuated after home explosion early Monday One person was seriously injured after a manufactured home exploded in Dixon. Elevated gas levels prompted the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
	Iowa gubernatorial candidates appeal beyond party lines Iowa has nearly 200,000 more registered Republicans than Democrats. It’s why Democrat Rob Sand is encouraging Iowans to vote for more than just an R or a D.
	Device and Conquer: “Toy Story 5,” “The Death of Robin Hood,” and “Leviticus” Thirty-one years after the franchise's debut, Disney/Pixar's latest animated comedy adventure is unusual in at least one regard: It's the first Toy Story that might be more fun to think about, and argue about, than actually watch.
	Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to reopen after major renovation After nearly two years behind closed doors, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is preparing to welcome visitors back with a completely reimagined museum experience.
	Whitey’s hosting 40th Cones for Kids fundraiser Monday Half the sales of all cones sold Monday will benefit Bethany for Children and Families.
	Students learn hands-on electrical trade skills at summer camp program The Heavy Metal Summer Experience returned to the QC Electrical Training Center in Moline for its second year Monday offering an immersive trade experience for Quad Cities students.
	Mobile home park residents allowed to return home after evacuation for high gas levels after explosion Officials said the people who live in the Chateau Estates are allowed to return home as of around 5 p.m., according to a media release.
	Heavy rain yesterday sends us over the mark for June A complete washout from Father's Day yesterday in the Quad Cities as lots of heavy rain spanned from early in the morning to early in the evening. Rain totals from across the Quad Cities showing many areas receiving over 2 inches of rain from yesterday's showers. After that rain came down and numbers were added [...]
	COLD CASE BREAKTHROUGH: Clinton County Jane Doe identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards After 51 years, Jane Doe 1975 found in the Mississippi River in Clinton County in 1975 has been identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards of Waukegan, Illinois.
	Commission greenlights marijuana being legally planted in Nebraska Commissioners on the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission during an April 13, 2026, meeting. From left, Commissioners Bud Synhorst of Lincoln, Jim Elworth of Nebraska City, Lorelle Mueting of Gretna (interim chair) and J. Michael Coffey of Omaha. All but Mueting also serve on the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)LINCOLN — The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission cleared the way Monday for the first state-licensed cultivator to put marijuana plants in the ground, while another is taking steps to fight a local zoning decision. The four-member commission voted unanimously to ratify the successful inspection of MahāMotā Cultivation Company in Raymond. This paves the way for the first legal marijuana plants in the state to take root. The commission began meeting last June, and starting Wednesday, the commission will begin accepting applications for product manufacturers. The commission can license four product manufacturers, under agency regulations, which also allow licensing of up to 12 transporters and up to 12 dispensaries. ‘We’re losing time’ Meanwhile, former State Sen. Kent Rogert, a registered lobbyist and sole owner of another licensed cultivator group, KRL Med LLC, said Monday that his company has been stopped in its tracks over a reversal from the Washington County planning and zoning administrator. Commissioner Jim Elworth, who serves on the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission and Nebraska Liquor Control Commission, listens to public comment during a hearing on proposed medical cannabis rules and regulations set by the overarching commission. Feb. 26, 2026. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) Rogert said commission staff had been set to inspect the property on May 26, but days before, the county administrator said KRL Med could not use a recommended agricultural exemption to grow marijuana. Hemp, Rogert was told, would qualify, but not marijuana. “Every day that goes by, we’re losing time and availability,” Rogert told commissioners Monday. The former lawmaker said the Washington County rules are “very, very broad, and we definitely fit within that,” but his company is complying with and appealing a stop-work order that also prevents Rogert and his team from going on the property or finishing a greenhouse. Rogert said his group has reached out to the Washington County attorney, but has not heard back. Last year, as state lawmakers considered a broad medical cannabis regulatory bill backed by supporters of the 2024 ballot measure, Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers united dozens of sheriffs and law enforcement organizations in opposition. The Washington County sheriff was one such opponent. Upon questioning from commissioners about whether Rogert’s company could grow this year, Rogert said the “days are ticking away pretty fast,” but, if resolved soon, he’s “cautiously optimistic that we can get something done.” Commissioner J. Michael Coffey, of Omaha, of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission. June 26, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) Commissioner J. Michael Coffey of Omaha, a retired district judge, asked whether Rogert would pursue litigation. Rogert said he will go through the local appeal first, outside the courts. Commissioner Lorelle Mueting, interim commission chair, offered to help however Rogert needs, and commissioners voted 4-0 to renew KRL Med LLC’s license for six more months, a sign they are at least OK with Rogert trying to move forward. Two other cultivators Another cultivator, Meadowlark Medicinals, delayed its inspection. Mueting did not give a reason why but said when the cultivator is ready, an inspection can be rescheduled. Commissioners on Monday also approved the request of the fourth and final licensed cultivator, Midwest Cultivator Group, to relocate from Omaha to Gretna. The group also faced changing zoning requirements in Omaha, but a leader of the company, Robert Wagner, said Gretna leaders already approved a requested conditional-use permit for the organization. Wagner said while the company is monitoring the movement of other license types, they will be ready to move forward with a “minimal viable product” when possible and after clearing inspection. Product manufacturer applications Commissioner Jim Elworth of Nebraska City made a successful motion, 3-1, to open up applications for product manufacturers beginning Wednesday. The plan is to solicit applications over the next four weeks and, once the commission can assess application fees, ask applicants to submit the payment and comply with any updated regulations at that time. Elworth said the Legislature appropriating funds for the commission’s work influenced his decision to move ahead, rather than wait for pending regulations to be approved first. “I’m just very concerned about waiting that much longer,” Elworth said. Commissioner Lorelle Mueting of Gretna of the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission. June 26, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) Mueting, the no vote, expressed concern that not accepting application fees would make Nebraska an outlier nationwide for another round of applicants. She was also concerned the application time frame was longer than the previous 19-day period for cultivators last fall. However, Commissioner Bud Synhorst of Lincoln agreed to Elworth’s plan with the idea that applicants could amend their application – or back out – later. Elworth said he will work with commission staff so applicants understand that fees will be charged and that there might be other changes later, such as a willingness to take on transportation duties and amend the planned license type. “Let’s get them in hand so we can deal with them as fairly as possible,” Elworth said. The commission’s next scheduled meeting is 1 p.m. July 20, which would be five days after the current set of temporary regulations expires. The regulations can be extended for 90 days. Regulations await sign off Commissioners in April voted unanimously to advance a formal set of regulations to Hilgers for his signature. Hilgers, who opposes medical marijuana, has not yet signed, but if he does, Gov. Jim Pillen would also need to sign off for the regulations to take effect without an end date. After that, commissioners hope to amend the regulations once again to add application fees, as authorized by the Legislature this spring. The 2026 candidates for Nebraska attorney general: Republican Attorney General Mike Hilgers, left, and Democrat Jocelyn Brasher of Omaha. (Photos courtesy of the candidates/campaigns \| Nebraska Capitol photo by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) Hilgers’ office did not respond to a reporter’s question Monday on the status of the regulations, which were sent to him in mid-April. The issue of medical cannabis is also shaping up to be a hot-button issue for 2026 elections, with Hilgers’ general election opponent, Democrat Jocelyn Brasher, a former assistant attorney general, attending Monday’s meeting to see the commission’s work for the first time. “Today’s meeting made one thing clear: That people and patients in Nebraska deserve more than delay, confusion and dysfunction currently happening under Attorney General Mike Hilgers,” Brasher said after the meeting. “As attorney general, I will uphold the will of the people and respect Nebraska voters on medical cannabis.” Asked about the possible hiccup, should Hilgers not sign in time, Mueting told reporters after the meeting: “We anticipate final regulations to be done by then.” Other agency business In other agency action: The commission will end its agreement with the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission this Friday that had allowed the sharing of office space and staff on a limited basis for almost a year. The overlapping structure largely existed because three of the four commissioners — all but Mueting — also serve on the Liquor Control Commission. The commission will seek permanent office space for dedicated staff and pursue changes to a lease agreement to permanently use a hearing room in downtown Lincoln. A job posting for a commission executive director, with a hiring salary of $100,000, is now public. The commission hired legal counsel. The commission had previously received legal help from the chief legal officer of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, an agency that has long opposed medical cannabis, and, recently, an attorney from the AG’s Office. Commissioners in April said the move was about optics and a possible appearance of “impropriety,” not a judgment on past legal help. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Nebraska Examiner
	A federal judge finds a Trump data system to verify voters is unlawful Tens of millions of voters have had their data run through the Trump administration's revamped SAVE tool. A judge just found it unlawful.
	More 7-OH related products made illegal in Florida by a new emergency rule Attorney General James Uthmeier announces a new emergency rule regarding 7-OH and similar compounds. (Photo courtesy of the Attorney General's Office)Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced a new emergency rule Monday to further crack down on sales and use of concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and other related chemical products in Florida. Appearing at Tampa General Hospital, Uthmeier — appointed by his former boss Gov. Ron DeSantis more than a year ago but facing Florida voters for the first time in November — was joined by Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Wilton Simpson, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, and state Rep. Dean Black, R-Jacksonville. Two emergency room physicians — Dr. Cory Howard and Dr. Thomas Nappe — along with Tampa General Hospital President Melissa Golombek, also joined Uthmeier. Kratom is an herbal extract that comes from a tree that grows in Southeast Asia. According to the Mayo Clinic, people who use kratom report that, at low doses, it acts as an upper. At higher doses, kratom users report that it reduces pain and acts more like a sedative. 7-OH occurs naturally in kratom in trace amounts (0.01–0.04%), but concentrated versions sold in gas stations, vape shops, and online under brands like Hydroxy, 7Tabz, and 7OHMZ are far more hazardous. The rule is an extension of a similar one Uthmeier announced last year that labeled 7-OH as a Schedule 1 substance. Florida AG issues emergency rule banning kratom compound Specifically, the new emergency rule announced Monday labels these 7 OH-related compounds as Schedule 1 drugs, according to the AG’s office: 7-hydroxymitragynine, mitragynine pseudoindoxyl, 7-acetoxymitragynine, 9-hydroxycorynantheidine, 10-hydroxycorynantheidine, MGM-15, or MGM-16. The federal Drug Enforcement Agency labels has defined level 1 substances as those with great potential for abuse but no accepted medical use. Schedule 1 substances cannot legally be prescribed or dispensed. The Tampa General representatives said the hospital has seen its share of overdoses from the synthetic drugs. “With access to 7-OH at every convenience store, we are having kids, we are having teens purchase this without understanding the true addiction and the highly lethal ability that this drug has,” said Golmobek. Howard, who also is associate medical director at the Florida Poison Control Information Center in Tampa, said that in the first four months of 2026 there have been 95 calls involving these drugs and derivatives. He has seen overdoses in people as young as three months to as old as 97. “We are seeing this affect Floridians of all ages, from infants to the elderly, which speaks directly to how aggressively and irresponsibly this drug is marketed,” he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Uthmeier warned Monday that anyone violating the rule could be arrested and charged with a felony. “If you violate our rule, we are going to make you pay for it. You could be looking at up to a 30-year prison sentences — and believe me, we will be looking to make some examples of bad actors,” Uthmeier said. In addition to the pair of Uthmeier-issued rules, Simpson issued an emergency rule last year that requires retailers to list how much of the opioid-like compound exists in each package. If the concentration is over 400 parts per million, Simpson said at the time, his agents will remove the “gas station morphine” from the shelves. “Since our emergency rule took effect, FDACS has removed over 23,000 illegal 7-OH packages from retailers across Florida, and our inspectors continue to conduct routine checks and targeted sweeps across our state,” Simpson said Monday. “We will use every tool available to protect consumers, safeguard our communities, and keep these addictive substances out of the hands of kids and families.” Courtesy of Florida Phoenix
	Teen victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	Bethany for Children & Families partners with Whitey's for 'Cones for Kids' 50% of the proceeds for each scoop of ice cream bought on Monday, June 22 goes to Bethany for Children and Families.
	'Moline 250' event to be held to celebrate America's 250th anniversary The two-day event will be held July 1 and 2 with free activities for families and more.
	Bethany for Children & Families partners with Whitey's for annual 'Cones for Kids' event 50% of the proceeds for each scoop of ice cream bought on Monday, June 22 goes to Bethany for Children and Families.
	Iowa soybeans blooming and corn silking behind schedule Young corn grows near Nevada, Iowa on June 19, 2026. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Corn and soybean growth in Iowa is slightly behind pace compared to last year and the five-year average, according to the latest crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The report shows just 3% of soybean acreage across the state is blooming, while typically 7% of the crop is blooming during the June 15 to June 21 reporting period. In 2025, 12% of the crop was blooming during the same reporting period. In 2025, 2% of planted corn acres had reached the silk stage by the solstice reporting period. The most recent USDA report shows a negligible amount of corn silking, which is behind last year but on par with the five-year average. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. The condition rating for both corn and soybean crops in the state declined from the week prior. Corn rated 77% good to excellent, compared to 79% good to excellent in the previous reporting period. Soybeans rated 74% good to excellent, down from 77% good to excellent the week prior. Oat condition remained the same as the week prior, at 83% good to excellent. Nearly 90% 0f oats have headed across Iowa, which is 8% higher than this time last year and the five-year average. There were some reports of crop damage from severe thunderstorms, winds and flash flooding that swept across the state. Statewide average precipitation for the week was 1.66 inches which was 0.46 inches above the average, according to a report from State Climatologist Justin Glisan. With another week of above-average precipitation, soil moisture conditions trended toward surplus, with topsoil moisture rated 22% surplus, and subsoil moisture 17% surplus. Glisan’s report showed that temperatures cooled across the state, with a statewide average of 67.8 degrees Fahrenheit, more than 4 degrees below normal. This is the first week since the end of May that average temperatures have been below, rather than significantly above, the normal. Temperature outlooks from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, show warmer temperatures on the horizon for Iowa. “Outlooks show warmer temperatures will likely return as we get closer to the 4th of July,” Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig said in a news release. “The crops would benefit from some sun and warmer weather as we enter the heart of the growing season.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Quad Cities area's first eating disorder program launches at UnityPoint Health Robert Young Center The intensive outpatient program runs four hours a day Monday through Friday.
	Iowa State to allow alcohol sales at sporting events starting this fall Because of the policy change, fans will no longer be allowed to leave Jack Trice and re-enter the stadium during games.
	Suspect in Iowa City Pedestrian Mall shooting pleads not guilty 17-year-old Damarian Jones of Cedar Rapids faces a litany of charges, including five counts of attempted murder.
	Longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa identified after more than 50 years Jane Doe 1975 was identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards, 15, from Waukegan, Illinois, according to a media release.
	Juvenile victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	Missouri marijuana microbusiness application period to open July 13 An employee of Robust Cannabis shows cannabis grown at their facility in Cuba, Missouri (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent).The application window to win one of 77 microbusiness marijuana licenses through a lottery selection will open July 13-27. The selection lottery is scheduled to take place on Sept. 9, and the Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation expects to issue the licenses in December, according to a press release issued Monday. Microbusinesses are marijuana facility licenses that are issued to eligible entities and individuals and are designed to allow marginalized or underrepresented individuals to participate in the legal marijuana market, the release states. Lesley Turek, the division’s chief equity officer, has been traveling the state this month to educate people about the application process. “I really feel strongly that the microbusiness licensees are a community of people, first and foremost, that support each other,” she said. “They’re the ones that are making this program move forward, so I’m looking forward to meeting some new people and sharing as much as I can about the program. It’s a great program.” A big part of what she’s been covering are the new rules that went into effect at the end of May — rules cannabis regulators proposed in 2024 after they revoked numerous licenses due to unconstitutional ownership deals. The new rules, she said, allow regulators to complete an extensive review before the licenses are issued, rather than afterwards. They also provide a deeper explanation of what it means to “majority own and operate” a license, which is a requirement in the Constitution. They mandate that regulators communicate directly with majority owners and that applicants take a course on compliance before applying and after receiving the license. The microbusiness program was established through the 2022 constitutional amendment voters approved to legalize recreational marijuana. In Missouri, there are seven categories where people could qualify for a microbusiness license, ranging from a lower income level or living in an area considered impoverished to having past arrests or incarcerations related to marijuana offenses. Applicants pay a $1,500 application fee that’s refundable if they don’t get picked. The Missouri Lottery will pick 77 applicants for licenses to open up either dispensaries or cultivation facilities. The goal is to fill the remaining slots in the minimum 144 microbusiness licenses mandated by the Constitution. Turek believes the application is pretty straightforward and something people can complete on their own, unlike the much more complicated application for comprehensive licenses. “We have lots of tutorials, and we have a step-by-step guide that we provide as well,” she said. “Anybody could sit down and do the application. I don’t think it’s challenging.” The part that most people don’t often understand is everything that comes with being a marijuana facility owner. “It’s very expensive, it’s very regulated, and so it’s challenging,” she said. “I want to make sure people have a clear understanding beforehand, so that they can make a good decision about whether or not they want to apply to this program.” A big part of her presentation is focused on the fact that the licenses must be majority owned and operated by eligible individuals, she said. They have to hold more than 50% of ownership and more than 50% of the power to direct the decisions that are made with the license. “It’s more than just ownership percentage,” she said. “It is really about being able to have that control of it.” She also talks about the designated contact, and why in the new rule regulators will require the designated contact to be the applicant or an eligible person who holds majority ownership. The designated-contact role was envisioned as a way to ensure clear communication between the state and licensees. Instead, state regulators discovered many designated contacts have kept the actual eligible applicants in the dark about business and license dealings. Applicants get locked into agreements that limit their voting power and profits in the business. That’s also why the state is now requiring a pre-application training, which is a three-video online course to ensure that applicants have an understanding of “potential predatory practices,” regulators stated in responses to public comments in the rulemaking process. The press release states that those needing assistance with eligibility requirements or application forms can contact facility application services at CannabisFAS@health.mo.gov. Microbusiness education outreach events In-person forums: June 22 – 6 to 8 p.m. – Kansas City Webinars: June 24 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 29 – 6 to 8 p.m. Registration is required for all in-person and virtual sessions. Interested participants may register at Microbusiness Education. Additional information about the microbusiness program is available at cannabis.mo.gov. Those needing assistance with eligibility requirements or application forms can contact Facility Application Services at CannabisFAS@health.mo.gov. Courtesy of Missouri Independent
	Homicide victim missing since 1975 has been identified: Clinton County Sheriff's Office A homicide victim who has been missing since 1975 has been identified, according to a news release from the Clinton County Sheriff's Office. On April 11, 1975, the Clinton County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a deceased person in the Mississippi River north of Clinton, about half a mile south of the Jackson [...]
	Illinois breaks record for number of tornadoes in one year Illinois breaks record for number of tornadoes in one year
	Longest unidentified Jane Done in Iowa identified after more than 50 years Jane Doe 1975 was identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards, 15, from Waukegan, Illinois, according to a media release.
	Turek criticizes Hinson’s vote for Medicaid cuts at healthcare event Josh Turek, top center, the Democratic candidate for Iowa's U.S. Senate seat in 2026, held a discussion with providers and patients about problems in accessing healthcare June 22, 2026, at the South Central Iowa Federation of Labor office in Des Moines. (Photo by Robin Opsahl/Iowa Capital Dispatch)As the country nears the one-year anniversary of the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act,” Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Josh Turek said Monday he plans to show Iowans how his Republican opponent Ashley Hinson’s vote for the 2025 tax and spending law and other GOP-backed measures have hurt people in the state. Turek, a state representative from Council Bluffs, held a roundtable discussion on healthcare Monday in Des Moines. Participants at the roundtable, including nurses, doctors, a pharmacist and a patient, discussed measures they would like to see Turek pursue if he wins the 2026 midterm election. Ideas included introducing a public option for healthcare coverage, instituting new rules for Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and measures supporting union protections for healthcare workers. But Turek and others also brought up laws passed by Republicans and President Donald Trump in the past year they believe would need to be reversed by Congress in order to avoid further healthcare provider closures and increased costs. They cited Medicaid cuts and changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) made through the 2025 “Big, Beautiful” law. Turek said Hinson, who currently represents Iowa’s 2nd Congressional District, “voted for the largest Medicaid cut ever” when she supported the tax and spending law last year. He said the law will hurt Iowans most who are already facing difficulties obtaining healthcare. “Two in five Iowans who rely on Medicaid in rural communities are already seeing the impact of these cuts, with rural healthcare and hospitals closing,” Turek told reporters. ” Just since the passage of the ‘Big Beautiful’ bill, five Iowa healthcare centers have announced closures, elimination of units, significant reduction in services, to both rural and urban communities. Many of these clinics seek cuts coming their way, and know they just can’t survive.” Turek also brought up Hinson’s vote against extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax subsidies. U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn was the only member of Iowa’s all-GOP federal delegation to vote in favor of extending the enhanced ACA tax credits, which expired at the 2025, and led to higher premium costs for people receiving healthcare coverage from ACA Marketplace plans. “When you’re looking at a state with a legitimate healthcare crisis — only state with a growing cancer rate, closed 250 more healthcare clinics than we opened — then what has she done?” Turek said. “She has voted to see 110,000 Iowans lose their health care, thousands more lose their basic food assistance, just to give tax breaks to billionaires. Voted against the ACA subsidies, as you heard out here, what that has done to Iowans, seeing their healthcare premiums double, triple, quadruple. “She’s not looked out for Iowans, she has just looked out for billionaires, large corporations, lobbyists, and donors … that’s not what Iowans are, and that’s not what we stand for, that’s not what I’m going to be up there. I’m not taking a nickel of corporate PAC money, I’m going up there to fight for Iowa and Iowans, and that’s going to be certainly fighting for their healthcare,” Turek said. Billy Fuerst, Hinson’s campaign communications director, said Hinson has taken steps in Congress to make healthcare more affordable for Iowans, including support for measures regulating PBMs as well as for the $209 million going to Iowa healthcare facilities as part of the federal Rural Health Transformation Program to help offset expected reductions in rural Medicaid spending as part of the tax and spending law. “Ashley understands that healthcare is too expensive for Iowa families. That’s why she’s working across the aisle to lower costs by taking on Big Pharma and Big health insurance,” Fuerst said. “Ashley worked with both parties to deliver millions in funding for healthcare access and cancer research. She passed bipartisan legislation to end stillbirths and is leading the charge to make birth control available over the counter at local pharmacies. While Josh Turek plays politics with Iowans’ healthcare, Ashley will keep working to expand access and lower costs for Iowa families.” Roundtable participants, however, argued that Medicaid cuts are having a large impact in Iowa, even in metro areas. State Rep. Austin Baeth, D-Des Moines, a physician, said as an internal medicine doctor at a primary care clinic, he encounters the impacts of cuts to federal healthcare funding firsthand. “The damages of these federal policies like the ‘Big Beautiful’ bill are really apparent, because I have patients who are no longer my patients because they don’t have the health insurance to come see me,” Baeth said. Baeth said he has worked with patients who know they will soon lose their health insurance and ask him to “front load” prescriptions and tests in order to try to remain healthy as they know they will not be able to access care for a significant period of time. He and other healthcare providers at the discussion, including Amy Hennings, a critical care nurse at UnityPoint, said not only does this put patients in potentially dangerous situations, but it will also cost more for the healthcare provider when an individual must seek emergency care for a problem that could have been addressed through available medicine and treatment. Turek, who was born with spina bifida and uses a wheelchair, said he personally has struggled with lack of access to preventative care. “Even from personal experience, I use a cushion that prevents me from getting a pressure sore …,” because a pressure sore would leave him “laid up in bed,” Turek said. “I mean, I’ve seen many, many individuals with disabilities have lost their lives sadly from issues like pressure sores. And to get qualified for a pressure-relieving cushion, I have to show that I’ve had issues with pressure sores. And it’s like it’s just totally backwards the way the whole entire healthcare system is working.” When Turek asked for what “solutions” providers and patients would like a U.S. senator to put forward, Larry Severidt, a primary care physician at Broadlawns Medical Center, said, “we need some kind of nationalized health care system,” bringing up U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders’ “Medicare for All” proposal as one way to implement a national system. Turek said he believed Congress should set a higher floor for minimum healthcare coverage. “If I could only get one thing done in the United States Senate, this would be the thing that I would like to get done, to ensure that every single American has access to a baseline level of healthcare coverage,” Turek said. “And I think that that best route is through a public option, a public-private hybrid system.” Speaking with reporters, Turek said he would support allowing people to keep their private insurance if wanted, but said “every single Iowa and every American would have a baseline level of coverage — very similar to like what you see with a VA hospital, or what you see with an option like Medicare.” He said there are many “models” of how this could be achieved, but said he supports some form of a public option because he believes “healthcare is a human right.” “In the Iowa Legislature, it’s been something I’ve really championed, is carrying the flag and fighting for better access, Medicaid improvements, and fighting for the most vulnerable,” Turek said. “Because that’s who it really affects the most: children, the elderly, the disabled.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Virginia legislators advance $205 billion budget including new tax on data centers Members of Virginia's Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee speak with the press in the Capitol Rotunda on June 22, 2026. The legislature advanced a $205 billion, two-year spending plan the same day. (Photo by Charlotte Rene Woods/Virignia Mercury)On Monday, Virginia legislators approved a two-year, $205 billion budget proposal to fund healthcare and public education, provide 4% teacher raises and a 3.5% pay bump to state employees, establish a retail weed marketplace and hedge against decreased federal dollars. The spending plan also includes a provision to tax data centers for their energy consumption, which is slated to generate a maximum of $600 million each year but doesn’t include the environmental standards the House of Delegates wanted to impose on the industry or the end of the sales tax exemption that the Senate sought. Senate Finance Committee chair Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, said after her chamber’s morning session that she “didn’t love” the data center compromise and framed it as a necessity — but not the final solution. “I would have preferred another method, but we had to get a budget. We were not going to let the government be shut down, and so this was a good start,” Lucas said. “This is a compromise proposal — one my administration helped craft — and it builds a strong foundation for further discussions about the future of this industry in Virginia on issues like environmental and community impact,” Spanberger said about the data center provision in a statement. The Senate passed the budget proposal 23-16 vote, while the House advanced it 71-22. With both chambers finally on the same page after months of gridlock over data centers, the plan will now be reviewed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger. She can sign it as-is, recommend changes or veto line items. The whole process must be finalized by July 1, when the new budget will take effect. Here are the key priorities addressed by the spending plan. Data centers The amended budget proposal creates an energy consumption tax for data centers which totals $.011 per kilowatt hour used per month. The state will collect up to $600 million a year from this new tax, according to budget language. Any funds collected over that cap would be put into a fund and given back to data centers at the end of each fiscal year. This is only a fraction of what the state could have made if they had ended the sales and use tax exemption, but, after months of arguing, lawmakers ultimately didn’t agree to that measure. Spanberger supported keeping the exemption in place through the end of the agreement’s term in 2035. Additionally, language was put into the budget to direct the Department of Environmental Quality to study the groundwater impacts of non-closed loop data centers, which use millions of gallons of water each year. DEQ will locate “cooling water scarcity areas” where the use of potable water for computer cooling systems could be detrimental to surrounding areas’ water quality and availability. The department will have until July 2027 to create regulations for the scarcity areas. After they are developed, future data centers in that area will be required to “use air cooling, closed loop cooling systems, or more efficient cooling systems that become available.” After July 1, 2027, data centers in the Eastern Groundwater Management Area will have to “use air cooling systems, 100% recycled water and/or stormwater for cooling, or use a closed loop system.” A study will be released in October 2026 on how to retrofit existing data centers in those areas to align with the new regulations. Some Republican lawmakers characterized the measure as inconsistent. “The budget does not create one strong statewide water usage standard for data centers. Some parts of Virginia get stronger protections and other parts get weaker protection or no protection at all,” said Sen. Glen Sturtevant, R-Chesterfield. “That should concern every locality that is concerned about becoming the next target for a massive data center.” Senate budget proposal keeps data center sales tax exemption, adds new tax for industry Budget language also directs DEQ to put in place noise abatement regulations for data centers before the end of 2029. The department will determine the lowest possible noise level for data centers and make it the standard starting in 2030. After that date, facilities who violate the noise standard will face a fine of $32,500 per day. “The noise issues are some of the things we hear the most from people that live next to data centers,” said Sen. Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, whose district contains dozens of data centers. “Water is a rising concern, especially for any data centers that are gonna be put east of I-95, where we already have a real problem with our declining aquifer.” Lucas told reporters that this is not the end of the conversation about doing away with the sales and use tax exemption, and that a study group will look closer at the issue and provide a report on their findings in November. Health and human services Overall, the pending budget will earmark $158.3 million in the state’s general fund for fiscal year 2027 and $245.1 million in 2028 for healthcare and social services. The money was set aside both for healthcare and social services the state typically handles along with support to comply with new federal mandates and partially plug holes created by federal funding shortfalls. As thousands of Virginians have fallen off Affordable Care Act health insurance this year, Virginia’s new budget entails $150 million to support a state-level version of the expired federal assistance for people between 138% and 250% of the federal poverty level. Sen. Danica Roem, D-Manassas, a former journalist and restaurant worker, described the difficulty of living uninsured for two years in a floor speech on Monday. “I don’t want anyone to live like that,” she said. She added that the budget “puts major money” into making sure that the state is “taking care” of people. Sen. Danica Roem, D-Prince William, speaks on the Senate floor during the special budget session on June 22, 2026. (Photo by Charlotte Rene Woods/Virginia Mercury) The plan calls for $3.5 million to determine ways the state can ensure eligible people remain on Medicaid amid forthcoming eligibility requirement shifts and additional verification work. Virginia’s roughly 850,000 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program beneficiaries went without their food stamps last fall during the federal shutdown. And due to a reconciliation bill Congress passed last summer, states like Virginia are attempting to reduce their error rates. State lawmakers have designated $135 million to handle SNAP, should the error rate not fall to the required 6% by the end of the calendar year. Sometimes SNAP households are overpaid or underpaid because of paperwork mistakes by government staff or outdated information from beneficiaries. Work in social service departments is already underway to reduce error rates. Free clinics will receive $20 million in state funding over the next two years while federally qualified health centers will get $10 million in that time. While federally qualified health centers offer sliding scale fees for low-income patients, free clinics are also a resource for uninsured patients. Both entities have been bracing for additional clients as Virginians lose their ACA or Medicaid insurance. A little over $1 million is allocated to help local health departments statewide handle rent increases. The regional centers help fill healthcare access gaps and are often tailored to the local communities they serve. As federal dollars for HIV/AIDS care are slashed, the state budget also contains over $26 million for that specific type of healthcare over the next two years. Staying on top of medication is critical in preventing the spread of the disease. Education Under the newly approved budget proposal, K-12 education funding would increase by $1.4 billion, including a 4% increase for teachers in each of the next two years. Lawmakers propose $590 million for rebenchmarking, declining enrollment, and high-need groups, including $28.9 million for at-risk and $148.4 million for special education students. Also included: $500,000 for grants to help schools purchase Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and implement cardiac emergency response plans. In higher education, the budget proposes restoring funding for affordable access and tuition moderation, as well as expanding nursing programs at several public universities. The Internships Virginia (InVA) initiative to provide paid internships for postsecondary students would also be funded. Virginia localities raise $119M for school construction through targeted sales tax To support educational infrastructure, lawmakers also agreed to expand the authority to allow all localities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for construction costs, contingent on a referendum that must pass in each jurisdiction. The language also permits jurisdictions in Northern Virginia to use the funds for transportation projects to address public transit needs. Tax deductions Taxpayers will be able to keep a bit more of their cash, as the new budget increases the standard income tax deduction from $8,750 for single filers and $17,500 for joint filers to $9,200 and $18,400 in 2027 and $9,300 and $18,600 in 2028. RGGI/environment A budget amendment was added into the conference report that would divert 45% of the funds earned from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative back to ratepayers. The funds come from carbon credit sales, which utilities must purchase if they want to burn carbon-based fuels sources that release emissions. Those costs are then passed down to utility customers. When former Gov. Glenn Youngkin removed the state from the agreement in 2021, it cost about $4 a month on the average residential customer’s bill. Recently, Dominion Energy filed for the “RGGI Rider” to be added back to monthly bills as mandated by a law to rejoin the agreement, signed by Spanberger in recent weeks. Dominion is required to begin purchasing from the carbon credit auction in July but the charge to customers won’t begin until March should the State Corporation Commission approve the application by the utility. This will lead to an increased charge of $10-$13 monthly. The state previously earned about $800 million from the RGGI funds that had to go towards community flood preparedness projects and low-income energy efficiency projects. The new budget language includes the rebate for customers, which would put money back in wallets but detract from the funds for flood and efficiency projects. The rebate will not apply to co-op utility customers. Housing While a handful of housing bills passed the 2026 session and have since been signed into law, the new spending plan includes measures to ensure bills with fiscal impacts get off the ground. The state budget proposal directs $60 million overall for housing initiatives, $40 million of which will go to the state’s Housing Trust Fund and $20 million that will go towards a mixed-income housing pilot program. Additionally, lawmakers set aside $11.5 million for the Virginia Eviction Reduction Program and $10 million for the Clean Energy Innovation Bank. Cannabis Spanberger and lawmakers announced June 16 a reworked proposal for a retail cannabis marketplace that included key compromises between legislators’ and the governor’s visions. The marketplace is set to launch July 1, 2027 and will be limited to 350 stores statewide. Spanberger, legislators roll out retail weed plan, set to launch in July 2027 State sales tax on retail weed will be 6% at launch and will increase to 8% in 2029. Localities also have the option to add an additional tax of 1 to 3.5%. Because lawmakers added a Part 5 amendment, the market will be permanently established in the state. The new framework includes a $250 public consumption civil penalty that will not take effect until 2027. “We had serious concerns about creating extreme new penalties that would not have meaningfully reduced the illicit market,” Sen. Lashrecse Aird, D-Henrico, said at a press conference announcing the framework last week. “But we believe this final framework strikes the right balance for enforcement mechanisms, but also in accountability, but also not harming those who just choose to participate in the market.” Child care The budget sets aside $137.6 million for the state-subsidized child care program slots, which will be devoted to families making 85% or less of the state median income. This follows legislation carried by Del. Briana Sewell, D-Prince Wiliam, requiring the state education department to update how it calculates the cost of childcare for Virginia families. A majority of Virginia parents and employers say child care costs are prohibitive. Spanberger signed the bill into law last month. A new cost-sharing program for child care will be funded through the new budget, with lawmakers allocating $25 million for the initiative to spread the price of child care between families, employers and the state. Transportation Lawmakers included $153 million in the budget for additional operating assistance for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, or Metro, with the caveat that Metro must produce a 20-year capital plan and annual performance reports. The action comes as inflation has driven up the costs of operating transit services. Lawmakers also proposed directing the secretary of transportation to evaluate options, including public-private partnerships, to accelerate large-scale improvements to the I-81 corridor. The legislature allocated $7 million for the Route 460 Phase IIA Finish Grade Project and directed stakeholder engagement to prioritize improvements along the U.S. Route 220 corridor. The budget also directs the state to identify federal funds to support rural electric-vehicle charging infrastructure and provides $500,000 to continue developing Advanced Air Aviation Test Sites to enable advanced air mobility. What’s next The proposal will now head to Spanberger, who said it contained “a lot to be proud of” in a Monday afternoon statement. “Today, the General Assembly has moved forward with a budget proposal — and that means we are keeping our government open and delivering for the 8.8 million people who call our Commonwealth home,” she added. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A view from inside the Virginia House of Delegates chamber on June 22, 2026. (Photo by Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury) Courtesy of Virginia Mercury
	SC’s red snapper season on pause amid federal lawsuit Gettys Brannon, left, holds a red snapper on a fishing trip with Russ Tomlinson, on July 12, 2024, the one day that year they could fish for snapper. Tomlinson, president of Sportsman Boats, is holding an African pompano. (Photo provided by Gettys Brannon)COLUMBIA — Anglers won’t be able to reel in red snappers off South Carolina’s coast this summer after a federal judge paused the state’s extended season. The decision, which came in response to a lawsuit filed last month in Washington, D.C., reversed a federal agency’s approval to extend the state’s recreational fishing season from two days last year to 62 days this year. The state Department of Natural Resources touted that approval as a victory following years of pushing for longer seasons to catch the large, red fish. SC anglers to get 2-month red snapper season instead of 2 days South Carolina’s red snapper season was set to begin July 1. Because the legal case won’t be resolved before then, state officials withdrew the application for a longer season and are instead working with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to set dates for a red snapper season this fall, DNR said in a news release Friday. The Southeastern Fisheries Association, which represents nearly 300 southeastern businesses, sued Secretary Howard Lutnick, arguing the U.S. Department of Commerce, which oversees the permits, failed to consider the possibility of overfishing in violation of a 1976 conservation law. The agency also approved incomplete permits, since the four coastal states that received extensions declined to say how many fish they expected anglers to bring in, the lawsuit argued. The other three are Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras agreed to put the extensions on pause while the case continues through the courts. The four states argued the longer seasons would help boost business and spread out fishing over multiple days instead of encouraging a mad dash for a single weekend. But any damage done during the longer season would prove difficult to undo, if not permanent, Contreras wrote. “Overfishing would undermine years of rebuilding efforts and would lead to additional restrictions affecting all participants in the South Atlantic fishery, including both commercial and recreational anglers,” he wrote May 21. “The conservation of public fishery resources and the prevention of irreversible environmental harm outweigh the temporary loss of additional recreational fishing days.” Federal approval of the extended season hinged on a requirement that anglers report the fish they caught, to determine how many red snappers are swimming off the coast. Supporters argued that would create a comprehensive picture of the health of red snapper fisheries along the Atlantic coast. “We are disappointed that anglers will not have the opportunity to participate in this project beginning July 1st,” natural resources director Tom Mullikin said in a statement. “However, the need for better data coupled with improved management tools has not changed. Reliable information is essential to ensure that future decisions are based on sound science and that anglers have the ability to directly provide accurate data through meaningful access to a healthy red snapper fishery.” The Coastal Conservation League, a South Carolina-based nonprofit, supported the expanded season, since it would mean more data on the fish. Dwindling numbers of red snapper led to the abbreviated seasons beginning in 2008. Some anglers said the population had rebounded and they should be able to fish for them over the course of two months, instead of cramming a season’s worth of fishing into two days. National nonprofit Ocean Conservancy, which joined the lawsuit, said the number of fish hasn’t grown enough to support more days of fishing. “Opening the red snapper season for two months — when last year it was two days — is fast-tracking the crash of this species,” said Meredith Moore, the nonprofit’s senior director of fish conservation, in a statement. “There’s just no way the stock can endure this level of fishing pressure so we can continue to fish for red snapper in the long term.” Courtesy of South Carolina Daily Gazette
	Orange County loses ‘tireless advocate’ with death of Commissioner Bedford Orange County Commissioner candidates from left to right: Maria Palmer, Jamezetta Bedford, Karen Stegman and Jeffrey Hoagland. (Photo: Greg Childress)Orange County residents are mourning the death of longtime county Commissioner Jamezetta Bedford, who died unexpectedly Sunday. Bedford was 67. According to multiple media reports, Bedford died from complications following hernia surgery at UNC Hospital. She is survived by her husband Ed Bedford and three adult children — a daughter and two sons. Bedford was first elected to the board of commissioners in 2018, and served as chairwoman from 2022-24. “Commissioner Bedford was a tireless advocate for our community and a trusted colleague whose impact will be felt for generations,” Orange County Commissioners Chair Jean Hamilton said in a statement. “From her years of service on the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education to her leadership on the Board of County Commissioners, she never lost sight of the people she represented.” Before being elected to the board of commissioners, Bedford spent 12 years on the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education, where she was an unwavering advocate for children, especially those with disabilities. She and husband Ed Bedford have a daughter with autism. “What I’ll remember most about Jamezetta Bedford is that she always showed up for us,” said Superintendent Rodney Trice. “Not in a superficial or ceremonial way, but in a way that let you know she was truly with you. She was a steady presence during some of our hardest moments as a district, when the decisions were complex and the path forward wasn’t easy.” According to Bedford’s bio on the Orange County website, she and her husband moved to Chapel Hill in 1992 to seek better services for their autistic daughter. She also served on the board of directors and as president of the local chapter of the Autism Society of North Carolina. Commissioner Earl McKee said he and Bedford didn’t always align on issues, but recalled that she was always “collegial” and “accommodating” while trying to understand various perspectives. “Regardless of where we ended up on those issues, I always respected Jamezetta greatly,” McKee said. Property taxes take center stage in Orange County Commissioners race Jamezetta Bedford was an accountant and brought a unique combination of “paying attention to details” and “caring for the citizens of Orange County” to the board that will be difficult to replace, McKee said. “She was able to process issues that came before us quite quickly, and worked toward suggesting solutions to those situations that we were facing,” McKee said. “Over the years, we faced some very difficult decisions.” Bedford was just reelected to the board of commissioners in March. McKee said the board is currently on summer break and will likely begin the process to find a replacement to fill Bedford’s seat in August or early September. In her bio, Bedford described herself as an “Army brat” who lived in Germany, Virginia, California, Hawaii and Utah before graduating from McLean High School in Northern Virginia. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Virginia, and a master’s degree in accounting from UNC Chapel Hill. Courtesy of NC Newsline
	After child endangerment convictions, Iowa man is denied a nurse’s license (Photo courtesy of the Iowa Board of Nursing)The Iowa Board of Nursing has refused to issue a license to a Sioux City man convicted of child endangerment. Court records show that in late October 2025, David Nseka, 33, of Sioux City was arrested on two counts of child endangerment after police alleged he left his two children, ages 1 and 3, alone in their apartment while he went to a doctor’s appointment. Two weeks later, police reported they were called back to Nseka’s apartment complex when residents there stated that a 3-year-old girl was “running around the apartment hallways unattended for approximately 30 to 45 minutes” and they were not able to reach the child’s father, Nseka. After a manager at the complex let police into Nseka’s apartment, officers allegedly found him lying on the kitchen floor, smelling of alcohol and with multiple open containers of alcohol nearby. Police reported that Nseka told them both of his daughters were in the bedroom of the apartment, but they later found the 1-year-old girl in the care of a neighbor. Nseka was charged with one count of child endangerment. The two criminal cases were ultimately resolved with Nseka pleading guilty to two counts of child endangerment, resulting in a deferred judgment and one year of probation. In December 2025, while the two cases were still pending, Nseka submitted an application to the Iowa Board of Nursing seeking licensure as a practical nurse. The board recently denied the application, stating that his “description of the events leading to the charges do not align with the police officers’ reports,” and that “there are concerns regarding (his) alcohol consumption.” Nseka told the Iowa Capital Dispatch on Monday he intends to reapply for licensure once he has completed probation and court-ordered parenting classes. Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Government Bridge closing for roadway sealing The Rock Island Arsenal Directorate of Public Works will close both the Government Bridge and the Rock Island Viaduct to vehicle traffic on Saturday, June 27 from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. for roadway sealing. Pedestrian, railroad and river navigation will not be affected. Signs will alert and direct traffic.
	Supreme Court declines to hear Texas man's intellectual disability case in capital case The court's action means Victor Saldaño is likely to be executed even though both defense and state experts determined he was not eligible for execution under the law.
	How investors spot Airbnb cash cows before everyone else (and how you can too) How investors spot Airbnb cash cows before everyone else (and how you can too)After the meteoric surge in pricing the short-term rental (STR) market experienced in the early 2020s, it became apparent that the Airbnb model is here to stay. Many investors seeking to diversify their portfolios concluded that, no matter how high the upfront cost, this is a buyer’s market.That said, STRs have a way of being especially profitable to the people who buy in early. Apart from benefiting from less competition, local legislation also takes a while to catch up, leaving room for investors to make back their money before the grip of zoning laws and bans takes hold.So how do smart investors find the perfect market for STRs early? PropertyReach offers a closer look at their strategies and how you can benefit from them.Tracking the Volatility of Modern STR MarketsSTRs were once a foolproof way of investing money, thanks to the simple business model and higher profitability compared to traditional long-term rentals (LTRs).However, with the huge expansion witnessed right after the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, local governments started paying closer attention to how this type of business affects the economy, and added “bans” or regulations that heavily control STRs. This is especially true for markets that see a lot of tourism, like Orlando, Florida; New York City; and Santa Monica, California.That said, it’s wiser to look at the STR business as comprising several markets, not just one. While some of the aforementioned cities are closing in on investors, others are opening up.Places like Buffalo, New York; Sarasota, Florida; and New Orleans are all booming with opportunity thanks to more lax regulations and falling property prices.How Proactive Investors Locate Profitable Properties EarlyThe decision to invest in an STR property might seem easy to some, but a smart investor does their homework about where to invest, how much to pay for a property, as well as projected profitability from the STR model. Here are some metrics to consider:Stable Home Value vs. Surging RentSome markets have been witnessing slow growth property value growth due to decreased demand. However, this doesn’t mean that rent prices aren’t rising alongside the general cost of living.In the markets where home prices are stable, or even decreasing, you might find a property that would work perfectly for the STR model. Places like Portland, Maine; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Madison, Wisconsin, are all potential candidates for this investment.GentrificationWhile considered a “dirty” word by some activists and organizations, it’s true that having amenities and gathering places, like workspaces, coffee shops, and grocery stores, close to a residential area is a magnet for property investment.It’s beneficial for the residents but also an excellent marker for a refreshed new look for the area, and maybe even a desire to create new social and cultural hubs.Low Owner-Occupancy RatesIf an area is mostly occupied by tenants instead of homeowners, it’s more likely to be accepting of a new STR business thanks to the absence of dreaded NIMBY (not in my backyard) sentiments and strict homeowners’ associations.A quick lookup using a property search tool can let you know the status of each property in a specific area, so you can make sure you’re on the right track with the area you’re targeting.Do High-Density Vacation Rentals Inflate Local Housing Costs?The short answer is yes. Every 1% increase in the number of Airbnb listings in an area corresponds to a 0.026% increase in the house prices there, according to a 2020 study by Kyle Barron, Edward Kung, and Davide Proserpio, published in Marketing Science.The effect balloons in high-density areas where the STR model reigns supreme, too. Another study found that in Barcelona, high Airbnb activity neighborhoods faced a 1.9% increase in rent, reaching 7% in highly coveted areas.However, there seems to be a growing number of cities in the United States proactively putting out legislation to fight this phenomenon. STR “bans” are laws and local regulations that make it harder for someone to own and operate an STR property. These include, but aren’t limited to, the New York City law that prevents owners from adding internal locks on the doors inside their house, and the laws that force the owner to register the STR property as their primary residence, like in many California cities.How to Future-Proof Your Rental Against Sudden Local BansThese are a few strategies to consider when you’re preparing to invest in an STR property:Spot the Red Flags: No one can predict the future, but whenever a market turns on the STR model, there usually are signs that new legislation is about to be drafted. Look for local representatives adding anti-STR legislation on their election agenda, NIMBY homeowners, and general political leanings in the area.Cost-Benefit Analysis of a Sudden Lockdown: How much will you lose if the city you’re investing in suddenly cuts off STRs? Is it possible to flip the home and make back your money? These are questions you should be asking, and depending on the answer, you can decide if this property is right for you.LTR Pivot: Having a plan B for the property as a long-term rental could be helpful in uncertain times. Even though it might not be as profitable, it could still bring in cash with fewer risks.Find Your Next STR Property NowUnderstanding the right strategies for STR investment is an excellent way to diversify your portfolio and unlock a new income stream. All you have to do is keep an eye out for properties with a somewhat stable market value, but with high potential as a STR. You should also do your research about the property, the area, as well as local legislation that could present challenges in the future.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Clock Inc. to hold special art auction fundraiser at Figge Thursday The LGBTQ+ community center Clock Inc. will hold an extra special art auction fundraiser Thursday, June 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport.
	Davenport Noon Optimist Club awards scholarships to Davenport high school students Students from all four of Davenport's high schools were recently awarded scholarships by the Davenport Noon Optimist Club. The Davenport Noon Optimist Club’s Promise Awards recognize students who exemplify the values of the Optimist Creed. Each year, three students from each of Davenport’s four high schools are chosen to receive a $1,500 scholarship based on [...]
	Magnificent Messi makes history, breaks all-time World Cup scoring record Messi scored a record-setting 17th World Cup goal in Argentina's game against Austria. And, then, he netted another goal, making him the all-time leader in World Cup tournaments (men and women).
	How to improve metabolic health with, without, or after GLP-1s (BPT) - By Sami Inkinen, CEO and co-founder of Virta HealthFew pharmacological therapies have captured public attention like GLP-1s.Originally developed as a medical intervention for diabetes patients to lower their blood sugar, they are now part of everyday conversations about health and weight loss. For many people, these medications have been transformative, helping manage blood sugar, supporting meaningful weight loss, and even lowering the risk of heart attacks, stroke and death.1At the same time, the 2026 Virta Vitals report from Virta Health, a provider-led digital health clinic that specializes in metabolic disease reversal, found most Americans surveyed still remain hesitant about these medications, even when recommended by a doctor. High cost, side effects, uncertainty about long-term use, and questions about maintaining results after discontinuing the drugs were among the most common concerns. Those concerns point to a larger question: How do people improve metabolic health, and how do you maintain the results from sustained weight loss to Type 2 diabetes reversal?Many people have heard terms like "metabolism" and "metabolic health," but they're rarely explained. At its simplest, metabolic health refers to how well the body processes and uses energy from the food we eat. When that system begins to break down, blood sugar regulation, hunger signals, fat storage, and many other biological processes can become disrupted. Over time, those disruptions often contribute to weight gain and development of many chronic diseases from type 2 diabetes to liver disease and more.Metabolic disease is now one of the largest health challenges facing our country. More than 90% of U.S. adults are metabolically unhealthy and affected by one or more chronic metabolic conditions,2 including obesity, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. CDC reports that more than $4 trillion of our $5.3 trillion healthcare spending is driven by chronic disease.3 That's four times our annual military spending.4While medications can help manage many of these chronic conditions, long-term success depends on sustainable changes that improve the underlying drivers of disease. Research has shown that most people regain weight after stopping GLP-1 therapy, not because the medications failed, but because the metabolic dysfunction remains. Lasting health improvements often require lasting changes.That's where nutrition, behavior change, and ongoing support become essential to building healthy habits. While GLP-1 drugs do change 'how much' one eats by suppressing appetite, only by changing 'what one eats' can one achieve metabolic health and sustained results.Food is one of the most powerful inputs into human metabolism. The way we eat — most importantly 'what' we eat — directly influences blood sugar, insulin levels, hunger, body weight, and many other factors that affect long-term health. When nutrition improves metabolic health, the benefits can extend far beyond weight loss alone.A growing body of peer-reviewed research has also become increasingly important. Studies with peer-reviewed results have shown that a nutrition-focused intervention like the Virta Method™ — Virta's personalized nutrition-based approach — reduces inflammation, improves glycemic control and reduces weight, improves cardiovascular risk factors, is associated with reduced incidence of liver disease, and even supports pancreatic cancer treatment. Research published in Diabetes Therapy also demonstrated that patients were able to maintain meaningful weight loss even after discontinuing GLP-1 therapy, suggesting that nutrition can play an important role before, during, and after medication use.One finding in the latest Virta Vitals report stood out to me: 61% of Americans said they would prefer to improve their health through behavior change rather than relying on a prescription. This statistic reflects something important. While GLP-1s are an important advancement and useful tool for some patients, people still want to play an active role in their own health. They want practical tools, support, and guidance that will help them make changes they can sustain.The future of metabolic health is not a binary choice between medications and lifestyle change. The more compelling issue is how to best help people address the root causes of disease and give them the tools to build lasting health.Whether someone uses a GLP-1, chooses not to, or eventually stops taking one, the same principle applies: sustainable metabolic health requires sustainable habits and primarily changing 'what' one eats, not just 'how much.' Medications can be powerful accelerators, but nutrition, behavior change, and ongoing support are what help turn short-term results into lifelong health.Americans deserve a path toward better metabolic health that actually lasts.[1] https://www.aasld.org/liver-fellow-network/core-series/why-series/why-are-glp-1-agonists-being-used-treat-patients[2] Aggarwal R, Ostrominski JW, Vaduganathan M. Prevalence of Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome Stages in US Adults, 2011-2020. JAMA. 2024;331(21):1858-1860. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.6892 [3] https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/data-research/facts-stats/index.html[4] https://www.usaspending.gov/agency/department-of-defense?fy=2026
	How long does it take to get a personal loan? How long does it take to get a personal loan?Sometimes, life throws curveballs at you that just can’t wait, such as an urgent car repair, a vet bill or a time-sensitive expense you didn’t see coming.If you're thinking about applying for a personal loan to help cover the cost, you’re probably wondering how quickly the money can actually be accessible. OneMain Financial broke down how long the personal loan approval and funding process usually takes and what you can do to help things move forward more smoothly.Personal loan approval and funding timesMost people may be able to get a personal loan quickly, but the exact timing depends on the chosen lender and their approval and funding process. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:Personal loan companyDepending on the lender, you may be able to apply for a personal loan online or at a branch. Typically, you’ll need to provide documentation like proof of identity and income — the exact requirements may vary by lender, and it may take a few days to verify your information.Although funding times vary, most personal loan lenders typically transfer funds to the borrower’s bank account within three business days after approval, and sometimes even the same day.Traditional bankA traditional lender, like a bank, could take one to three business days to approve a personal loan and three or more business days to fund it. Banks may also have stricter credit requirements than some other lenders, which might make it harder to get approved if you have less-than-perfect credit.If you already have an account with the bank and are in good standing, you may be more likely to be approved.Credit unionPersonal loan approval at a credit union may take one to three business days, and funding may take three or more business days. If you’re not already a credit union member, you’ll need to join first, and some credit unions don’t let new members take out loans immediately. However, compared to banks, credit unions are usually more flexible with credit requirements and may offer more competitive interest rates.Personal loan approval factorsAlthough the type of lender you apply with could affect how quickly your application can be evaluated, other factors impact the approval process, including the following:Credit historyMost lenders review credit history to assess creditworthiness when evaluating a loan application. For someone with less-than-perfect credit, some lenders might use a more rigorous review process to evaluate the application, which can lead to longer wait times. They may also request additional information.Type of loanThe type of personal loan you apply for may affect how quickly your application can be evaluated. For instance, secured loans require backing the loan with collateral, which is something of value, like a car. When applying for a secured loan, applicants typically have to provide information and documentation to verify the value, ownership, condition and insurance coverage of the collateral. Because of the extra paperwork, it may take some additional steps to get a secured loan.A secured loan may boost borrowing power with a lower interest rate, higher loan amount or longer repayment period (also called the “term of the loan”). If an applicant’s credit score is less than favorable, a secured loan may also be easier to qualify for than an unsecured loan. Just keep in mind that if you miss payments, the lender has the right to take the collateral to recover their losses.Unsecured loans, on the other hand, don’t require collateral and are based primarily on creditworthiness and financial profile. Because there’s no verification process for collateral, an unsecured loan application may take a little less time for lenders to assess and approve than a secured loan.Application accuracyMistakes happen, like filling in the wrong address or misspelling your name, so this could be why your personal loan application is either declined or takes longer to review. The lender may contact you to verify or clarify information on your application, which may add time to the approval process.Income verificationLenders verify income information to ensure you can repay the loan. Some lenders may allow you to set up an online connection to your bank account’s transaction history to help them confirm your paycheck deposits, while others may require you to upload paperwork like pay stubs, investment income and/or tax returns. If your employment status or other proof of income is easy to verify, this step may be quick. If not, getting approved and receiving the money you requested may take a little longer. Likewise, if you have to provide verification for your collateral, the process may take extra time.Make sure you provide all the important information, like your employer’s contact information, and upload any requested documents, like your check stubs or bank statements, so the lender can easily verify your ability to repay the personal loan.Tips to help streamline loan processingWhile some parts of the loan process are out of your control, there are steps you can take to make sure your application goes as smoothly as possible.1. Review your credit reportWhen applying for a personal loan, lenders look at credit history, income and debt to determine eligibility. Before applying, check your credit score. If it’s lower than you’d like, it could be helpful to pay down some of your debts to make sure your credit score is as strong as possible before you apply for a personal loan. Also, review your credit reports for any mistakes or inaccuracies and correct them before submitting a new loan application.2. PrequalifyChecking to see if you could prequalify for a personal loan lets you consider the options and budget before committing. Checking for offers is typically a quick and easy process, but timing does depend on the lender.Consider prequalifying with a few lenders, comparing their offers and then choosing the one that best suits your needs. Once you find the right fit, you can submit your loan application. When you apply, the lender then reviews your credit report using a hard credit check, which has a small, temporary impact on your credit score.3. Gather your documents ahead of timeCollecting paperwork or information while completing a loan application may make the process take longer. Instead, try to gather the documents you need before beginning the loan application. To get a loan, you’ll typically need to provide the following:Proof of identity (like your driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport or available third-party verification service)Proof of residence (like a driver’s license with current address, utility bill or signed lease)Proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns)For a secured loan, you’ll also need to provide verification of your collateral.Different lenders may have different requirements. Double-check before beginning your application to make sure you have what you need.4. Review your application carefullyErrors on a loan application, like typos or incorrect information, could delay approval or cause an application to be declined. To avoid this, check that everything is correct before submitting an application so the lender doesn’t have to ask you to correct any mistakes.Lay the groundwork for your loan applicationGetting a personal loan doesn’t always mean a long wait to get money, but the timeline can vary based on the lender, the type of loan and how prepared you are when you apply.Understanding what affects approval and funding times and taking simple steps like reviewing your credit report, prequalifying and double-checking your application could help avoid delays and get the funds you need faster.Whether handling an unexpected expense or planning something important, a little preparation could go a long way in making the loan process smoother and less stressful.This story was produced by OneMain Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why this Iowan has a state job but not the one that he planned Larry Johson failed to earn the required support in the Iowa Senate -- because of Democrats in that legislative body -- to serve as the director of the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services but will instead hold a different prominent role in the department.
	State board approves options for prenatal videos in schools, including one from anti-abortion group Members of the South Dakota Board of Education Standards meet on May 4, 2026, at the DoubleTree convention center in Rapid City. From left are board members Linda Olsen and Tonia Warzecha, state Education Secretary Joe Graves, and board members Steven Perkins, Greg Von Wald, Phyllis Heineman and Rich Meyer. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)South Dakota schools will have multiple options for new state-required prenatal development videos — including one from an anti-abortion group. South Dakota Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden signed House Bill 1313 into law earlier this year, requiring public schools to show students “age-appropriate and research-based” videos. The law takes effect July 1. Each video must be at least three minutes long, and each video or combination of videos must include two things: high-definition ultrasound footage showing brain, heart and organ development, and imagery tracing prenatal development from fertilization through birth. Videos from groups that perform or promote abortion are prohibited. The South Dakota Board of Education Standards approved three videos Monday. Lawsuit challenges South Dakota’s new ban on abortion-pill advertising State Education Secretary Joe Graves said the department vetted all three videos for scientific accuracy before sending them to the board. “Will there be a controversy somewhere? It’s possible. But I don’t see it being based on there being any inaccurate information in the videos,” Graves said. One is the three minute, 13-second “Baby Olivia” video, which has drawn criticism from medical professionals and abortion-rights groups, including for misaligning with how doctors date pregnancies. The video dates an embryo’s age from conception, rather than the mother’s last known period. The video comes from Live Action, an anti-abortion group, and has been the inspiration for similar legislation in other states. “Baby Olivia” alone doesn’t meet the law’s two requirements and must be paired with a second video, said Shannon Malone, the department’s director of learning and instruction. That second video, “How a Human Embryo Develops into a Fetus,” is nearly four minutes long and produced by Encyclopedia Britannica. Both videos are available online for free. The third video option, which covers both of the law’s requirements, is the only recommendation that costs school districts money. It’s a 42-minute DVD, “The Biology of Prenatal Development,” produced in 2006 by the Endowment for Human Development and available from various sellers for up to $29. The endowment describes itself as a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health science education and public health. “The DVD was obviously superior,” board member Phyllis Heineman said. Malone said the department will explore options to license and share the 42-minute video on its website. School districts must confirm annually that they’ve met the requirement, Malone said. The school districts will also report which video or videos they used. No members of the public spoke about the videos during the meeting. The state law describes the requirements only as “age appropriate” and does not specify what age of students should watch the videos. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of South Dakota Searchlight
	Arkansas sues Roblox and Discord, accusing platforms of putting children at risk Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin speaks at a news conference on Feb. 26, 2025. (Photo by Sonny Albarado/Arkansas Advocate)Arkansas is accusing social gaming platforms Roblox and Discord of profiting from putting children at risk of sexual predation in a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Tim Griffin earlier this month. The June 11 lawsuit filed in a Los Angeles trial court claims that Roblox and Discord lied to the public about how safe their platforms are because both do not require age verification or parental consent for minors to set up accounts. The Republican attorney general’s complaint accuses the platforms of unjust enrichment and of violating the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and the Arkansas Public Nuisance Law. Both companies have more than 140 million users each. The complaint asks the court to enjoin both companies from continuing to advertise their platforms as safe. The state also seeks $10,000 per violation of the deceptive trade practices law, as well as attorneys’ fees. Roblox and Discord both issued statements Monday disputing the lawsuit’s allegations. “Roblox is deeply committed to fostering a safe, healthy, and age-appropriate environment for our community,” the company’s statement reads. “…[The suit] fundamentally misrepresents how our platform works and fails to recognize the extensive, proactive measures we are taking to set a new standard in online safety.” Discord’s statement claimed the lawsuit “does not reflect the platform we have built or the investments we have made in user safety.” 2026.06.11-Complaint_Roblox_Discord “Our safety systems combine advanced technology and human-led investigations, alongside user reports to help identify accounts or spaces engaged in harmful activity,” the statement reads. “…We look forward to collaborating with policymakers in working toward a safer online experience for all users on Discord and across the internet.” Roblox allows users to create and play each other’s original games. Its website says the company believes in “aligning access to games and features with users’ ages.” “Based on information and belief, there are tens of thousands of children logging onto Roblox in Arkansas with children users under 16 and tens of thousands also under 9 years of age,” the complaint states. Discord markets itself as “the social platform for all of gaming.” The complaint does not estimate how many minors in Arkansas use Discord. Roblox’s facial recognition software is flawed because “children have defeated it using avatar photographs, images of adults, or simply drawing wrinkles on their faces,” the complaint states. Discord’s terms of service states that users under 13 years of age cannot set up accounts, but the platform “has no mechanism to verify that a stated birthdate is accurate, no system to screen out underage users, and no process for confirming parental consent before a child’s account is activated,” the complaint states. “You may think that Roblox and Discord see these problems as a result of a flaw in their product,” Griffin said in a news conference Monday. “They see it as a feature. They’ve known about this, and they have had every opportunity to change it, to stop it, to do something about it, and they have refused to do that. Why? Because they’re making a lot of money.” Both platforms are valued at billions of dollars, and Roblox’s chief financial officer told investors in 2023 that the company’s safety expenses would decrease year after year “as a point of pride,” according to the complaint. Roblox recently launched two child protection initiatives not mentioned in the lawsuit, according to the company’s statement. The platform requires age verification in order to use chat features “so that younger users are limited to chatting with similarly aged users by default,” and it has “new age-based accounts that automatically match our youngest users” with age-appropriate games, according to the statement. Federal judge blocks reworked Arkansas law restricting minors’ social media Griffin’s suit is the latest in a string of lawsuits Roblox has faced over its alleged lack of child safety measures. In April, Alabama, Nevada and West Virginia settled with the company for more than $11 million each. Other states that have sued Roblox include Louisiana, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, Iowa and Tennessee. More than 100 families have also alleged in lawsuits, combined into a single California lawsuit, that Roblox has failed to protect children from sexual grooming and assault. In 2023, Arkansas became the first state to require social media companies to verify children’s ages before signing up for accounts. A federal judge blocked the law in 2025, around the same time the Legislature approved changes to the 2023 law. Those changes were also blocked in federal court this year. Courtesy of Arkansas Advocate
	Iowa ag department launches Des Moines watershed program; cover crop incentives The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship announced cover crop incentives for farmers in the greater Des Moines watershed. Pictured is a cover crop growing in a field of corn stubble. (Photo by Lance Cheung/USDA)Farmers upstream of the Des Moines region are eligible for cover crop incentives as part of state legislation to improve water quality in central Iowa. The expanded incentive program, which Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced Monday, is the“first of several” conservation initiatives in the Greater Des Moines Watershed Program rolling out over the next several weeks. “Improving water quality requires a system-wide approach from the farm to the faucet, and farmers continue to step up by implementing proven conservation practices on their farms,” Naig said in a news release. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. These practices are aimed at improving conservation and reducing nutrient runoff from agricultural land into Iowa rivers. A Polk County study from 2025 pinned agriculture as the primary contributor to high nitrate levels in the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers. Nitrate concentrations in the rivers have caused lawn watering bans in central Iowa this summer and last summer. Naig and Gov. Kim Reynolds introduced a $319 million water quality investment, dubbed the “farm to faucet” package, during the legislative session. The funding package, which passed and was signed as part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship annual budget, will fund water quality monitoring, conservation practices in the Des Moines watershed and water treatment infrastructure improvements. The first phase of the watershed program, announced Monday, allows farmers in eligible counties to enroll in cover crop cost assistance up to $25 per acre for as much as 500 acres. Participants living in Audubon, Boone, Buena Vista, Calhoun, Carroll, Clay, Dallas, Dickinson, Emmet, Greene, Guthrie, Hamilton, Hancock, Humboldt, Kossuth, Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Polk, Sac, Webster, Winnebago and Wright counties can be new or existing cover crop users. “Cover crops are one of the most effective tools we have to keep soil and nutrients in the field, improve soil health, and protect water quality,” Naig said in the news release. “That’s why we’re increasing incentives and making it easier for farmers and landowners to participate.” Cover crops, or the practice of keeping plants in the soil between harvest and planting seasons, is a conservation practice prioritized by the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. Close to 4 million acres of Iowa farmland, or about 17%, had a cover crop in 2024, according to the Iowa Nutrient Research & Education Council. The 2024 figure was more than double the acreage planted with cover crop in 2017. Farmers in the 22 eligible counties can sign up for the program at their U.S. Department of Agriculture service center and find more information on the Clean Water Iowa website. Naig said the “targeted conservation efforts” upstream of Des Moines will “complement” the infrastructure investments made downstream. The department’s funding legislation, signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds earlier this summer, included a $25 million grant to Central Iowa Water Works to expand infrastructure and expand the nitrate removal capacity of the network that provides potable water to the Des Moines region. The farm to faucet funding package also allocated funds for small and medium sized communities to upgrade water infrastructure systems. The news release from IDALS said additional conservation investments from the program will be announced “in the weeks ahead.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	How Americans heated and powered their homes across 250 years How Americans heated and powered their homes across 250 yearsThe average American adjusts a thermostat or flips a light switch dozens of times a day without a second thought. Two hundred and fifty years ago, staying warm meant chopping, hauling, and feeding firewood into an open hearth all day. Even then, a glass of water across the room might freeze solid overnight.As the nation marks its 250th birthday, the story of how Americans heated and lit their homes tracks with nearly every major chapter of the country’s growth. As Shipley Energy outlines below, the fuels have changed, but the impulse behind them has not.How Did Colonial Americans Heat Their Homes?Colonial homes were built around massive central chimneys. A roaring hearth could keep the front half of your body warm while the back half stayed cold, as roughly 90% of the heat went straight up the flue.A typical household burned through 30 to 40 cords of firewood per year for heating and cooking, with each cord a stack of split logs four feet wide, four feet high, and eight feet long. Families confined themselves to one or two rooms for the winter, and deforestation around settlements became a serious concern by the mid-1700s.The Franklin Stove: America’s First Energy UpgradeIn 1742, Benjamin Franklin designed what he called the Pennsylvania Fireplace, a freestanding cast-iron box with internal baffles that radiated heat in every direction while burning far less wood.Franklin refused to patent it. “As we enjoy great advantages from the inventions of others, we should be glad of an opportunity to serve others by any invention of ours, and this we should do freely and generously,” he wrote. The stoves sold for 5 Pennsylvania pounds in Philadelphia. An ironmonger in London later copied the design, patented it, and made what Franklin drily noted was “a little fortune.”What Lit Colonial Homes Before Electricity?For most of the 18th and early 19th centuries, the answer was animal fat and whale oil. Ordinary households made tallow candles by repeatedly dipping cotton wicks into melted fat, a tedious autumn ritual. Wealthier families could afford spermaceti candles made from sperm whale oil, which burned brighter and cleaner, but they were expensive enough that most Americans never used them.The whaling industry functioned as America’s first energy supply chain, with fleets of ships crisscrossing the Atlantic to bring lamp fuel home. Shipley Energy Kerosene Killed the Whale Oil LampThat supply chain collapsed fast. On Aug. 27, 1859, Edwin Drake struck oil at 69 1/2 feet in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Kerosene refined from crude oil burned brighter, cleaner, and far cheaper than whale oil. Titusville’s population surged from 250 to roughly 10,000 by 1865. Drake, like Franklin before him, never patented his method.King Coal and the Cast-Iron RadiatorBy the 1820s, anthracite coal from northeastern Pennsylvania was displacing wood. It burned hotter and longer, and cast-iron stoves adapted to use it.The real breakthrough was central heating. Coal-fired boilers in basements pushed hot water or steam through cast-iron radiators, widely adopted by the 1880s, delivering heat to every room for the first time. The trade-offs: Coal dust coated everything, homes needed dedicated storage rooms, and someone had to shovel fuel and haul ashes several times a day.Gas Light, at Your Own RiskCoal gas, produced by heating coal and piping the result to nearby buildings, brought indoor gas lighting to wealthy urban homes by the 1850s. It was also dangerous. Gas fixtures leaked carbon monoxide, and with no regulations governing the companies that maintained the infrastructure, escaping gas caused suffocations, fires, and explosions.Edison Lights Up ManhattanOn Sept. 4, 1882, Thomas Edison’s Pearl Street Station in lower Manhattan began generating electricity, becoming the world’s first commercial central power plant. It launched with six dynamos serving 82 customers and 400 lamps; by 1884, the station powered 10,164 lamps for 508 customers.Electrification moved slowly. Early wiring was expensive and limited to wealthy city neighborhoods. Many homes hedged with combination gas-and-electric fixtures. As late as 1925, only half of American homes had electric power.When Did Rural America Get Electricity?In 1934, only about 11% of American farms had electricity. Private utilities saw little profit in stringing miles of wire to scattered farmsteads. President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act on May 20, 1936, providing federal loans to build power lines into farming communities. By 1950, close to 80% of farms had electric service. By 1960, electrification was essentially universal. Shipley Energy Heating Oil Replaces the Coal ShovelThe household oil burner came into prominence in the 1920s, and by the 1930s heating oil was appearing in new construction and coal-boiler retrofits alike. After World War II, it became the dominant residential fuel in the Northeast, where existing boiler infrastructure and oil distribution networks made the switch from coal a natural fit. Some cities mandated the conversion in the mid-1940s.Oil delivery trucks became a fixture of winter life across the Mid-Atlantic and New England: constant supply, smaller tanks, and no more shoveling.Natural Gas and the Suburban BoomIn 1940, three out of every four American homes still relied on coal or wood for heat, according to U.S. Census data. That changed fast. The interstate natural gas pipeline network expanded massively in the 1940s and 1950s. About half of the existing mainline transmission network was installed during this period, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.The postwar suburban boom accelerated the shift. Millions of new homes built in the late 1940s and 1950s had gas lines running to the curb. The thermostat, a small device with large consequences, meant homeowners could set a temperature and walk away. By the 1960s, natural gas was America’s preferred home heating fuel.Propane carved out its own role, reaching rural homes that sat beyond the pipeline network. First commercialized as liquefied petroleum gas in 1912, propane became a primary heating fuel for millions of households in areas where natural gas infrastructure didn’t extend.Air Conditioning Redraws the MapFor most of American history, cooling a home meant opening a window and hoping for a breeze. Wealthy families in the 19th century bought blocks of ice harvested from northern lakes and rivers, stored through the summer in insulated icehouses. Everyone else simply endured the heat.That changed in 1902, when a young Cornell engineering graduate named Willis Carrier designed a system to control both temperature and humidity at a Brooklyn printing plant. The technology worked, but residential air conditioning remained a luxury for decades. The first window units appeared in the early 1930s and cost the equivalent of a new car. By 1947, only about 43,000 units had been sold nationwide.Prices fell steadily after the war, and by the late 1960s most new homes had some form of air conditioning. The effect on where Americans chose to live was profound. Sun Belt states that had been too hot for large-scale settlement saw population surges, with Texas growing 170% between 1950 and 2000. Air conditioning did not just make homes more comfortable. It reshaped the country’s demographic map.The Story ContinuesThe decades after the suburban boom brought their own turning points. The 1973 OPEC oil embargo quadrupled oil prices almost overnight, and in 1977, President Jimmy Carter went on television in a cardigan to ask Americans to set their thermostats to 65 degrees during the day and 55 at night. The federal government created the Department of Energy in 1977 and began setting the first appliance efficiency standards, pushing manufacturers to build furnaces, water heaters, and air conditioners that wasted less fuel.Heat pumps surged in popularity during the energy crisis, faded when fuel prices dropped, and have roared back, now installed in roughly 40% of new American homes. Programmable thermostats arrived in the 1980s. Smart thermostats followed in 2011, cutting heating and cooling costs by 10%-26% by learning household schedules. Solar panels, once a novelty on a handful of experimental rooftops, now generate electricity for millions of homes nationwide.As the country celebrates its semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026, the full arc of that 250-year journey is worth appreciating. The colonists who chopped 40 cords of wood each winter and read by the light of a tallow candle could not have pictured a thermostat, a furnace, or a light switch. But they would have understood the motivation behind all of it. Every generation inherited the same basic problem and found new ways to solve it: Keep the house warm, keep the lights on, and make it a little easier than the generation before.This story was produced by Shipley Energy and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	4 ways to save on July 4th travel this year, according to KAYAK data 4 ways to save on July 4th travel this year, according to KAYAK dataAs Americans gear up for summer travel, there’s some good news: airfare prices are finally easing. According to KAYAK’s airfare trends dashboard, both domestic and international fares are trending down for the first time in weeks — a promising sign for travelers planning summer and early fall getaways.With just two weeks until one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, KAYAK uncovered a few standout Fourth of July travel trends and savings opportunities:1. Avoid the July 2 rushTiming matters more than many travelers realize.July 2 is shaping up to be the busiest day for domestic July 4th travel. It's also one of the most expensive, with average airfares running about 25% higher than flights on July 4 itself.Travelers who can shift their departure to July 3 or July 4 may find better prices and more availability. Average airfare on July 4 is currently $286, compared with $380 on July 1 and July 2.For holiday travelers, a one- or two-day shift can make a meaningful difference in cost.2. Don't Overlook These Trending Destinations with Great ValueSome of the destinations seeing the biggest increases in traveler search interest this July 4th also happen to be among the more affordable options.Fort Lauderdale: $281 average airfare (+32% increase in traveler interest year over year)West Palm Beach: $305 average airfare (+25%)Las Vegas: $320 average airfare (+22%)These destinations are attracting significantly more traveler interest than they did last year while maintaining relatively accessible airfares.For travelers looking to maximize value this holiday weekend, they offer proof that affordability and growing interest don't always have to be mutually exclusive.3. Compare Flying and Driving Before You BookMany travelers may assume renting a car and driving is the more budget-friendly option. But that's not always the case.According to AAA, the national average for gas prices is up 33% compared to last year, so travelers may be surprised by how competitive flying can be on some routes once fuel costs, mileage, and rental car prices are factored in.Take a trip from New York to Washington, D.C., for example. This trip calculator found that for two travelers planning to rent a car, flying would cost approximately $173 less than driving.For travelers weighing their options this holiday weekend, comparing the full cost of both transportation methods can reveal savings opportunities that aren't immediately obvious.4. Consider Hawai‘i, Where Prices Are FallingWhile many destinations are seeing higher prices this holiday weekend (cough Nashville), Hawai‘i shows the opposite.KAYAK data shows airfare to four Hawaiian islands is down compared to last July 4th:Lihue, Kaua‘i: $652 average airfare (-13%)Honolulu, Oahu: $671 average airfare (-9%)Kahului, Maui: $683 average airfare (-8%)Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawai’i: $687 average airfare (-7%)Those declines represent savings of up to $99 per ticket, making Hawai‘i one of the destinations where travelers can pay less than they did a year ago.For travelers who have been eyeing a Hawaiian getaway, this year may offer a better opportunity than expected. With airlines adding routes and increasing access to the islands, travelers are benefiting from more competition and lower fares than they saw last July 4th.The Bottom LineSome of the best July 4th travel values are hiding in plain sight. Travelers who look beyond the busiest travel days, compare destinations more carefully, and evaluate the full cost of a trip can find more savings than they might expect.This story was produced by KAYAK and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Trump administration renews order keeping Indiana coal plants open for the third time F. B. Culley Generating Station is coal-powered and located in Warrick County, Ind., along the Ohio River. (Photo by Macabe Brown/Courier & Press)The Trump administration has renewed an emergency order to keep two aging Indiana coal plants operational through mid-September. Administration officials argue the orders, renewed last Thursday, are necessary to minimize energy costs and prevent blackouts at peak summer demand — despite two of the units being taken offline for maintenance and objections from an energy executive who called the plant “inefficient” and “unreliable.” “Taking reliable generation off the grid compromises energy reliability and needlessly raises energy costs for Americans,” Energy Secretary Chris Wright said in a statement. “During peak summer demand, Midwesterners deserve continued access to affordable, reliable, and secure energy to power and cool their homes.” Trump admin intervenes for coal plants The U.S. Department of Energy first issued the orders in December — days before CenterPoint Energy and the Northern Indiana Public Service Company, or NIPSCO, were set to retire the coal-powered F.B. Culley and R.M. Schahfer generating stations in Indiana. The orders are part of the Trump administration’s efforts to block the “premature retirement” of coal plants across the U.S., which the administration says has saved 17 gigawatts of coal-powered electricity generation in 2025. The Department of Energy cites an internal report finding power outages could increase by 100 times by 2030 if the country takes reliable power offline to justify its actions using Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act to intervene in regional power markets. The agency renewed the orders for 90-day periods in March and June. The latest order directs the investor-owned utilities to maintain the Indiana coal-powered units through Sept. 19. The Department of Energy references long-term and summer reliability assessments from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, which warned projected additions to the electric grid don’t keep pace with demand forecasts. Load growth in the Midcontinental Independent System Operator, or MISO, “is expected to accelerate in 2027 and beyond, which may lead to increased reliability risk in the future if resource additions cannot keep pace with rising forecast loads,” the Department of Energy reported in a news release. Utilities warn upkeep is costly In a February letter urging the administration not to renew the order, CenterPoint Indiana Region President Michael Roeder described the coal-fired Culley plant as an “inefficient and increasingly unreliable asset,” accounting for less than 1% of the region’s installed electric capacity. The plant produces 103 megawatts of electricity in Warrick County. The following month, NIPSCO and CenterPoint executives told the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission that the fuel, chemicals, staffing and upgrades needed to keep the units operational are costly. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission authorized MISO to adopt tariffs so NIPSCO and CenterPoint can recover those costs. Utilities warn of soaring costs related to Trump order for Indiana coal plants to stay open An analysis from the Sierra Club, which filed a lawsuit challenging the emergency orders, estimates it could cost consumers a net of $174,000 a day to keep NIPSCO’s Schahfer plant online, while CenterPoint’s Culley plant could cost consumers $21,000 a day. “It’s unbelievable that even with the Schahfer units being broken, and Culley’s owner calling out what a terrible decision this is, the Trump Administration still insists on doubling-down on coal to keep lining the pockets of billion dollar fossil fuel companies,” Robyn Skuya-Boss, Indiana director of the Sierra Club, said in a statement last week. “Meanwhile, Hoosiers and Americans are strapped with higher utility bills, higher gas prices, and a higher cost of living altogether. Intervention is long overdue. Gov. Braun and Attorney General (Todd) Rokita can step in immediately on behalf of Hoosiers struggling to afford their utility bill and block these costs from continuing to fall on them.” Spokespersons for both utilities told the Indiana Capital Chronicle on Monday they remain in compliance with the orders. NIPSCO has since taken two units at the Schahfer generation station, located in Jasper County, offline for inspections and maintenance. “Units 17 and 18 are currently offline while inspections, maintenance and repair work continue, including significant turbine and boiler work,” a NIPSCO statement said. “As this process continues, NIPSCO remains focused on operating safely and providing reliable energy to its customers and the MISO Northern and Central Zones in compliance with the 202(c) order.” Noah Stubbs, media relations for CenterPoint, said “at this time, there is no direct bill impacts to CenterPoint customers, but we remain committed to keeping customer affordability top-of-mind as we plan for recovery of costs associated with operating the unit. “We will continue to work collaboratively with federal, state and local stakeholders and remain focused on delivering reliable electric service to our southwestern Indiana customers and their families.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Indiana Capital Chronicle
	How dynamic pricing and guaranteed availability impact holiday jet travel How dynamic pricing and guaranteed availability impact holiday jet travelTravelers and corporate flight departments face a critical choice: dynamic pricing for opportunistic cost savings, or guaranteed availability for operational certainty. Each model carries distinct financial and schedule implications.These systems help match travelers with the right aircraft at the right time, offering more flexibility and predictability than traditional booking models. Jettly broke down how these options work, the advantages they bring, and how to maximize value from each option. Jettly How Does Dynamic Pricing Work in Private Aviation?Nowadays, dynamic pricing is the norm, and not just in commercial and private aviation. Dynamic pricing appears in hospitality, ride-sharing, utilities, energy, and other sectors. This is a pricing strategy where the final cost is influenced by a series of factors.In private aviation, some of the factors that weigh the heaviest are aircraft size and class, demand, availability, route, environmental factors, and/or fuel surcharges. Flights from New York to Miami on Thursday afternoons in October carry lower prices than that same route on the day after Thanksgiving.Charter companies use dynamic pricing for yield optimization. Their main goal is to make sure an aircraft never flies empty or underpriced, while also attracting a more varied customer base. On the other hand, holiday travelers who enjoy the luxury of private flying also stand to gain from this arrangement.The model aligns operator and customer incentives.What Is Guaranteed Availability?Guaranteed availability is the alternative model. This is a contractual promise that, in exchange for an upfront premium, a private operator will have an aircraft available within a specific window (usually 10 to 72 hoursâ€™ notice), no matter how busy the market is.The price is almost always tied to a fixed hourly rate determined when the contract is signed. Whether flights occur in October at 5 a.m. or Christmas Eve at 2 p.m., an aircraft remains available. The fixed hourly rate applies regardless of timing. The offer is usually included in financial instruments like fractional ownership, leases, and traditional membership jet cards.Contracts require careful review of fine print. Most contracts designate 15 to 45 days a year (major holidays, Super Bowl weekend, Thanksgiving) as peak days. On these specific dates, the rules of the guarantee change slightly to give the operator breathing room.Clients might face longer notice requirements, from the usual 24-hour to 72 or 96 hours. Also, the operator may reserve the right to adjust requested departure times by ±3 hours to help stagger the fleet's schedule.Dynamic Pricing vs. Guaranteed Availability: Cost vs. Certainty Trade-offsWhen deciding between options, the following comparison illustrates key differences between models: Jettly Who Benefits Most: Flexible vs. Fixed-Schedule TravelersHoliday demand drives pricing volatility. In recent years, inflation, global geopolitical conflicts, and disruptions in the supply chain have made travel of any kind a lot more expensive.In fact, according to the Deloitte 2025 Holiday Travel Survey, only 1 in 4 surveyed travelers would book a first-class flight. In the same survey, 57% of travelers said they prefer driving instead of flying because of the costs.Still, demand for private aviation remains at an all-time high, and holiday travelers are an important segment of the clientele. That is due, in part, to dynamic pricing.When schedules are flexible (such as during holidays), dynamic pricing is a gold mine. Flexible travelers can scan marketplace platforms and find discounted flights from operators eager to avoid flying an empty aircraft.Travelers who frequently fly contrarian routes (e.g., flying out of Florida at the beginning of winter, or flying midweek) also benefit because the algorithm lowers prices to stimulate demand on empty legs.On the other hand, families who only travel during rigid calendar windows (e.g., Christmas, spring break, or to Aspen, Colorado, in January) heavily benefit from a guarantee.This story was produced by Jettly and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Premium packaging becomes a growth strategy for retailers Premium packaging becomes a growth strategy for retailersRetailers and product brands without premium packaging face commoditization and margin compression in highly competitive markets. In categories from specialty coffee to cosmetics to consumer tech, packaging is no longer decorative—it's a direct driver of perceived value and purchasing behavior.The shift is structural. Consumers form quality judgments in under 50 milliseconds, before they even open the product. A generic, commodity package signals low value. A thoughtfully designed one with tactile finishes, high-end materials, and clean typography signals quality, craftsmanship, and a justified price.This matters because premium packaging allows brands to escape price competition entirely. Instead of competing on cost, they compete on experience. A specialty coffee roaster can charge more for a pound of beans, not because the coffee is necessarily better, but because the packaging tells a story of quality and care. The same principle applies to cosmetics, tech accessories, and luxury goods across every category, TEAM Concept, a Chicago-based commercial printing company, reports.Premium Packaging Captures Sales in Under 50 MillisecondsIt takes less than 50 milliseconds for a customer to decide if they’re going to interact with a product or not. Whether on a shelf, in a brick-and-mortar store, or online, in an e-commerce shop, that first impression can make the difference between “buy” and “pass.”The judgment rests on perceived quality. Even before they open the packaging and see what’s inside, buyers will already have formed an expectation. A clean, professional design that incorporates special elements like texture or embossed writing signals attention to detail and creative effort.Premium packaging becomes inseparable from the product itself.Apple's packaging has become a benchmark in retail design. When someone opens an iPhone box, everything is well-placed, sophisticated, and clean. The entire experience is intentional and cohesive.The smooth lines and clean design continue with the product. This way, the packaging sets the expectation and the device delivers. Even if the consumer doesn’t know what premium packaging is, they feel the difference, and this is all that matters for a spectacular first impression.The Details that Signal QualityPremium packaging uses high-quality materials, sophisticated printing methods, and intentional design to create an elevated customer experience. The distinction isn't subtle—it's visible and tactile from the moment a buyer encounters the product.Specialty brands differentiate through specific design choices: flat-bottom bags that stand upright (not slouching pillows), discrete pocket zippers that reseal, matte finishes that feel like soft-touch fabric, and transparent labeling that highlights technical specifications. Abstract color blocks and editorial typography communicate tasting notes or product benefits. Each element reinforces the perception of quality and care.Customization is central to both product differentiation and customer experience. Brands use distinctive designs, premium materials, and specialized printing techniques to ensure products stand out on shelves while creating stronger impressions on consumers.The result is a coherent experience: The packaging sets expectations, and the product delivers on them. When done effectively, the unboxing itself becomes part of the value proposition.How Does Packaging Drive Growth?Given that premium packaging raises the shelf price of the product, how does it make sense for a business’s growth strategy?Looking only at material costs, it may seem counterintuitive. But when considering consumer behavior and the fact that price and quality are among the most influential factors in purchasing decisions, premium packaging can be a high-return investment.Better VisibilityIn a crowded store or an endless online scroll, brands have roughly three to seven seconds to capture a shopper's attention before they look away. If their packaging looks generic, they’re forced to compete purely on price, meaning many companies have to lower prices to get noticed.Premium packaging flips this dynamic. By using striking visual architecture and tactile finishes, the product immediately stands out. It breaks through the visual noise, transforming a passive browser into an active buyer.Rewire the Consumer's Perception of ValueFast visual assessments evolved within human cognition. This instinct helped humans survive ancestral environments and still drives split-second purchasing decisions.So, while premium packaging increases production costs, it also enables brands to shift from price competition to value competition, with consumers accepting higher retail prices.Free Word-of-Mouth MarketingMany consumers find it satisfying to unpack a beautifully wrapped gift or product. This feeling is behind one of the biggest trends in the creator economy: unboxing videos.The unboxing phenomenon is still popular, especially on short-form content platforms like TikTok or Instagram. And it’s a massive driver of organic, free marketing.Nowadays, the trend has shifted a bit toward sustainable and reusable packaging that still looks and feels great. For instance, many of the boxes and containers used by the luxury packaging market are reusable as home storage solutions. This way, buyers get to brag about their purchases while feeling proud that they didn’t contribute to the packaging material waste problem.A Chance for Small RetailersIndependent retailers face a structural disadvantage against massive corporate brands when competing purely on price. Premium packaging shifts this dynamic. By upgrading to premium, sustainable mono-materials and detailed, transparent labeling, they shift the product out of the grocery staple category and into the luxury experience category.Their target is now a demographic of consumers who actively want to spend money on high-quality goods, even if it's a few dollars more.Investing in Growth Strategy Through PackagingIn a highly competitive market, premium packaging helps retailers stand out and capture the attention of a more affluent audience. So, whether a brand is selling coffee, cosmetics, or tech devices, it does pay to take things a bit further with packaging.Although it raises the shelf price, premium packaging also increases customers' desire to buy. By turning an ordinary purchase into an experience, businesses get to sell fewer items at much higher margins, while nurturing a loyal and dedicated client base.This story was produced by TEAM Concept and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Laverne Cox wrote her memoir because 'one more human story out there can help' For more than a decade, actor Laverne Cox been one of the most visible trans women in America. But the Orange Is the New Black star says she spent most of childhood keeping herself hidden.
	Dixon, Illinois, officials give update on early morning home explosion Authorities held a press conference at noon on Monday after a home explosion injured one and prompted over a hundred evacuations.
	“Legislative Add-Ons Returning to Normal Levels” Sounds a Lot Like “Cuts” When Factoring in Inflation In response to a question last week from my associate Isabel Miller, Governor JB Pritzker said he didn’t think a group of progressive legislators could pass their progressive revenue bills through both chambers by the end of the spring session.
	Retail has a safety crisis, and new research shows how leaders are responding Retail has a safety crisis, and new research shows how leaders are respondingWalk into almost any retail store today and something has quietly shifted. Merchandise sits behind locked cases, staffing feels thinner and the atmosphere carries a tension that wasn't there a few years ago. It turns out shoppers aren't imagining it.Shoplifting at U.S. retail stores rose 18% in 2024, according to the National Retail Federation, and threats of violence during these incidents climbed 17% in the same period. These are not just numbers to the employees showing up to work, not knowing what the shift will bring.A new survey from Axon, a leader in safety and security technology, finds that retail leadership is paying attention to these problems. Nine in ten retail executives say workplace safety is a top priority for their organization. Eighty percent say it caused operational disruption in the past year.That toll has a price. The costs show up quickly and in multiple directions, with the top effects reported including higher insurance or legal expenses, increased employee turnover and higher hiring and recruitment costs. These pressures compound over time, with each challenge feeding into the next and making it harder for stores to get ahead of the problem.For the retail workers absorbing the daily tension of understaffed stores and difficult customer situations that can escalate quickly, the stakes are personal. These are the employees who are on the floor each day, responding to difficult moments in real time while absorbing the ongoing stress of simply not knowing what the next interaction might bring. The workforce consequences, including turnover, recruitment strain and burnout, are a direct reflection of what the job has become.Retailers are responding. When asked whether they support greater investment in safety and efficiency measures, more than 4 in 5 retail leaders strongly favor or favor increased spending. Technology is where much of that appetite is focused, with majority support for solutions ranging from body-worn cameras, which can operate as a personal safety device, and de-escalation training to AI-powered tools and real-time monitoring operations centers.Retailers are also tracking whether the investments pay off. Store performance and customer experience rank among the top ways retail organizations measure whether safety spending is working. Behind those metrics are real people, workers who want to feel supported on the job and customers who want to shop without worry.The tension shoppers may sense when they walk through the door is the same tension retail workers feel every shift. But the gap between that reality and the promise of a safer experience is closing. Technology has given retailers more ways to protect the people in their stores — training platforms that prepare workers for real situations before they happen, AI tools that help teams respond faster, and solutions that make it easier to de-escalate a situation before it gets worse.MethodologyAxon commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of executive leaders in healthcare and retail throughout the United States. The sample included 129 healthcare leaders and 125 retail leaders. The margin of error is plus or minus 6 percentage points at a 95% confidence level for the total sample and for the healthcare and retail subgroups. Fieldwork was conducted between March 27 and March 30, 2026. Atomik Research, part of 4media group, is a creative market research agency.This story was produced by Axon and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	8 best states to invest in real estate in 2026 8 best states to invest in real estate in 2026For people with nine-to-five jobs, real estate can create more wealth than just about any other asset class, and many get into it to secure their financial futures or achieve financial freedom. But with thousands of markets across the country, putting your money in the wrong place could slow you down. No matter where you live, knowing which states are best for investing in real estate can help you reach your financial goals.A quick Google search turns up dozens of possible investment opportunities, but a seemingly good deal on paper does not always equate to real-world performance. Before comparing individual rental properties, it pays to understand the bigger picture.In this guide, TurboTenant investigates eight states to consider investing in rental properties in 2026. The list was compiled based on factors such as job growth, affordability, landlord friendliness, and more. Depending on your goals, these carefully vetted markets offer strong potential for cash flow, appreciation, or, in a perfect world, both.What makes a state worth investing in?Every investor has their own unique strategy, but strong rental markets tend to share a few traits. Here are the five factors used to build this list:Job growth and population trends: You don’t want to buy a rental property in an area where people are actively moving away. States with steady in-migration and job growth tend to have stronger rental demand, lower vacancy risk, and a larger pool of qualified tenants.Landlord-friendly laws: Some states are more landlord-friendly than others, while some actively favor tenants. Laws related to eviction, rent control, tenant screening, and security deposits can all make or break your returns.Affordability and entry price: Knowing the hottest rental markets doesn’t matter if you can’t afford to buy into one. Lower purchase prices make it easier to enter the market, improve cash flow, and support stronger metrics such as the price-to-rent ratio and cap rate.Rental yield and long-term appreciation: Think about your investment goals before you buy. Some markets offer stronger monthly cash flow, while others give investors better odds of long-term appreciation. The best opportunities tend to balance both.Operating costs and risk exposure: Purchase price is only part of the equation. Property taxes, insurance premiums, and natural disaster exposure can all hit your net returns hard. States with low property taxes and stable insurance markets give investors more predictable costs and stronger month-to-month returns.With those factors in mind, take a look at eight states where the fundamentals point in the right direction for 2026.1. TexasTexas has no state income tax, a large and diversified economy, and major metros like Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston that continue pulling in workers and businesses at a pace few states can match. The result is consistent population growth and strong demand for both single-family and multifamily rentals across the state.Texas is also one of the most landlord-friendly states in the country, with no statewide rent control, shorter eviction timelines, and rental laws that give owners real flexibility to operate. The one notable cost to watch in the Lone Star State is property taxes, which are above the national average and can squeeze margins if not accounted for. Investors who need more room to breathe should compare the major metros against more affordable markets like San Antonio or El Paso.2. FloridaFlorida’s steady stream of retirees and remote workers relocating for the weather supports long-term demand in metros like Tampa and Jacksonville. At the same time, Orlando and Miami feed a short-term rental market that few other states can compete with. That flexibility lets investors choose their strategy or hedge between the two without crossing state lines.Like Texas, Florida has no state income tax and strong landlord protections, with state preemption blocking local rent control ordinances. The inescapable expense to keep in mind, however, is insurance. Homeowner and landlord premiums run significantly higher here than the national average. Factor these numbers in ahead of time, however, and Florida’s long-term appreciation case still stands.3. TennesseeTennessee’s rental demand lies in cities like Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Nashville, the latter of which has consistent job growth across healthcare, technology, and music. Populations are rising in all three metros, but homebuying costs are lower in Knoxville and Chattanooga, and you’ll face less competition from other investors.What makes Tennessee stand out is that the laws favor landlords, and the economics favor tenants (both of which work in landlords’ favor). No statewide rent control, a fast eviction process, no state income tax, and a cost of living below the national average all combine to keep your units full and your liability manageable.4. North CarolinaNorth Carolina hosts the famed “Research Triangle,” a region comprising three cities (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill) with a well-established tech sector and multiple major universities. Charlotte rounds out the state’s investment case as the financial capital of the Southeast, with a banking-driven job market that supports upscale rentals without the prohibitive entry costs of nearby coastal alternatives.The less obvious play is the Piedmont Triad region, where lower home prices and high occupancy rates create stronger cash flow potential with less investor competition. Statewide, North Carolina has no rent control, a landlord-friendly eviction process, and shorter lease termination timelines, a legal environment that works for landlords whether they’re buying their first property or their hundredth.5. GeorgiaAtlanta is one of the few major corporate hubs in the country where entry costs haven’t kept pace with demand. Home to Delta, Home Depot, and Coca-Cola, this Sun Belt city consistently attracts new residents and sustains steady rental demand across a range of price points. Not to mention, price-to-rent ratios in the outer suburbs still hold up for individual investors.Georgia has no statewide rent control and doesn’t cap late fees or security deposits, both investor-friendly policies that protect your bottom line. And if Atlanta’s price point feels out of reach, consider markets like Savannah and Augusta, which offer significantly lower entry costs.6. ArizonaPhoenix has been one of the most-watched rental markets in the nation over the last decade, largely due to steady in-migration and a fast-growing tech sector. Beyond the metro, Tucson offers a quieter entry point, with lower housing costs and a stable college-town renter base, making it worth a close look for investors priced out of Phoenix.Arizona is an appreciation play (and a well-timed one right now). Home values surged after 2020, cooled, and have since been stabilizing, meaning buyers are negotiating from a stronger position than they’ve had in years. For investors with a long-term mindset, Arizona is one of the more compelling investment property markets in the country right now.7. OhioIf cash flow is your primary goal, Ohio deserves a serious look. Home prices are affordable, rental rates are competitive, and the state’s major cities (particularly Columbus) consistently post lower vacancy rates than comparable Midwest metros. That combination is rare at Ohio’s price point.Columbus has added another long-term growth driver in recent years: a fast-expanding data center corridor anchored by Amazon, Google, and Meta. Pair that with no statewide rent control and strong demand for multifamily real estate investing, and Ohio makes a compelling case for low-and-slow investors who want consistent returns over flashy appreciation.8. IndianaIndiana is perhaps the most beginner-friendly state on this list. The state capital, Indianapolis, offers high rents relative to median home prices, low unemployment, major corporate anchors like Eli Lilly, no statewide rent control, and some of the lowest property taxes in the region.But the real hidden value is waiting outside the capital. Markets like Fort Wayne and South Bend offer some of the lowest entry costs and least investor competition of any metro on this list, making Indiana a natural starting point for first-time landlords aiming to get their footing in passive real estate investing. Get the numbers right in the Hoosier State, and you’ll have a game plan you can take anywhere.Start investing with the right foundationKnowing the best states to invest in real estate is just a starting point. Before you commit to a market, get clear on your goals: steady cash flow, long-term appreciation, or both. Not every market delivers each, and buying into the wrong one can make for an expensive lesson.Once you’ve zeroed in, compare vacancy rates, run the numbers on insurance and property taxes, and stress-test your expected rents before you make an offer.Every state on this list made the cut for a reason, but none of them is the perfect answer for every investor. Ohio is all about cash flow. Arizona rewards patience. Indiana hands first-timers a playbook.Match the market to your goals, run the numbers honestly, and build a process that keeps the investment profitable. The homework is the easy part, but everything that comes after is what separates good landlords from great ones.This story was produced by TurboTenant and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Country star Ella Langley bringing sold-out tour to Quad Cities Country star Ella Langley is extending her sold-out tour to the Quad Cities.
	Clive Davis, music executive and champion of legendary pop artists, has died at 94 The record executive was instrumental in shepherding the successful careers of a number of monumental music stars, including Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen, Janis Joplin, Billy Joel and Whitney Houston.
	Investigation underway after rural Rock Falls hit-and-run leaves bicyclist seriously injured A 911 call reported the crash around 10:21 p.m. on Sunday, June 21. Authorities said it happened on U.S. Route 30 in front of Crystal Lake.
	Should you microwave fresh dog food? Should you microwave fresh dog food?While it may be tempting to pop your pup’s food in the microwave to take the chill off, especially if it’s frozen, Ollie’s Food Safety and Quality Assurance team doesn’t recommend it. That’s because microwaving can degrade the nutrients in fresh food and can cause it to spoil more quickly, among other things. Read on for safe ways to warm up and thaw your pup’s food.Is it safe to microwave fresh dog food?The short answer is no. Fresh-frozen recipes are made with real, human-grade ingredients and gently cooked at low temperatures—an approach designed to lock in as much nutrition and flavor as possible. A blast of intense, uneven heat from the microwave strips away the goodness and introduces a few risks that aren’t worth taking.Here’s what microwaving fresh dog food can do:Degrade nutrients: The high heat of a microwave can break down heat-sensitive vitamins and nutrients that make a fresh meal worthwhile.Speed up spoilage: From a food-safety standpoint, warming food up actually accelerates bacterial growth if it isn’t eaten right away. A bowl of warm food is a friendlier place for bacteria to start growing than one served freshly thawed.Cause sparking: The vitamins and minerals in the food can react in the microwave and cause sparking.How to safely thaw frozen dog foodHere’s how to safely bring a meal up to temperature before serving it to your pup.Thaw in the fridge overnight. Move packs from the freezer to your refrigerator about 24 hours ahead. Once thawed, they’ll stay good to serve for up to 4 days.In a pinch, submerge the pack in cold water. For a faster thaw, submerge the unopened pack in a bowl of cold water. Keep it sealed the whole time—an open pack lets water in and invites bacteria, which defeats the purpose.Build in a buffer: Keeping a day or two of thawed meals in the fridge means you’re never caught scrambling.How to warm fresh dog food without a microwaveOnce a meal is thawed, some dogs still prefer it with the chill off, especially in cooler months. If yours turns up its nose at a cold bowl, you have a couple of safe, simple options:Add warm water or broth. Stir in a spoonful of warm (never hot) water or a no-sodium, onion- and garlic-free bone broth. It lifts the aroma and warms the meal in one move.Let it rest on the counter. Pull the meal out of the fridge 10–15 minutes before serving so it comes up to room temperature on its own. Do not let it sit on the counter for more than 30 minutes.The bottom line: Skip the microwaveTo take the chill off or win over a picky eater, reach for a splash of warm water or broth, or let the meal rest on the counter for a few minutes instead. Your dog gets a bowl they love, and you keep every bit of the goodness you signed up for.FAQsIs cold food bad for dogs?Not at all. Most dogs are perfectly fine eating food straight from the fridge.What if my dog refuses cold food?Try letting the food sit out for 10 to 15 minutes or gently thaw it. You can also mix in a little warm broth or a small topper to entice them.This story was produced by Ollie and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	A complete guide to lab-grown gemstones A complete guide to lab-grown gemstonesLab-grown gemstones can be any stones created via advanced synthetic processes as opposed to being mined from the ground. They may include diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, or any gem that looks and feels just like its naturally sourced counterpart.Just like natural stones, lab-made gemstones have their pros and cons. Many buyers choose lab-made gems because they’re often more affordable and can be viewed by some as more eco-friendly. However, some feel that lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, despite being identical in physical makeup to mined stones, aren’t as “authentic” or “real.”So what’s the truth? BriteCo chatted with their expert gemologist Kaitlyn Rigdon to find out:How lab-grown stones are madeWhich lab-created gemstones are bestThe pros and cons of lab-grown gemstone jewelryWhat consumers should keep in mind when shopping for a lab-grown gemstoneHow Are Lab-Grown Gemstones Made?There are multiple methods of producing lab-grown gems, with some of the most popular including the flux growth process, flame fusion process, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and the high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) method. Essentially, these methods mimic the natural processes that produce precious stones beneath the earth, but rather in a controlled environment and on a much quicker timeline.“Lab-grown diamond and gem production has become so good that any of these processes are going to produce really great quality stones,” Rigdon said. “They’re producing them to a certain endgame so they can cut them precisely without worrying about losing any rough materials, so it doesn’t really matter how they’re produced. You can get the same result in a laboratory.” Here’s a closer look at the four processes often used to create lab-grown gemstones and diamonds.1. The Flux Growth ProcessFlux growth requires melting a solid material (called flux) within a chemical solution that, while cooling, grows synthetic crystals. This method is more time-intensive and more expensive than others, but is known to produce very high-quality synthetic stones, particularly emeralds. The flux growth process is also used to produce rubies, sapphires, alexandrite, and spinel.2. The Flame Fusion ProcessOne of the earliest methods of producing lab-grown gems is the flame fusion process. It requires melting powdered substances (such as aluminum oxide) at an extremely high heat of more than 3,600 degrees Fahrenheit, after which the cooling substances crystallize, forming gemstones such as rubies and sapphires. The flame fusion process is very cost-effective and relatively quick, though the gemstones may be more likely to feature undesirable inclusions.3. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)Widely used to create lab-grown diamonds, CVD uses a very tiny diamond “seed” combined with extreme heat and a carbon-containing gas to build a larger diamond stone. CVD diamonds typically feature few flaws and are known for their high quality.4. High-Pressure/High-Temperature (HPHT)Another popular option for producing lab-grown diamonds is the HPHT method. As the name suggests, it combines high-pressure points and high temperatures in a controlled environment to turn carbon into a diamond, just much more quickly than its natural counterparts typically form.The best lab-grown gemstones include diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies.In particular, a lab-created diamond will exhibit no physical difference when compared to its natural counterpart. “Testing with my eye, or even a microscope, it’s hard to tell the difference,” Rigdon said.A lab-grown emerald can actually have less inclusions than natural emeralds. As for appearance, Rigdon says, “the colors between an emerald that’s lab-grown or an emerald that’s natural are going to be different, but most people aren’t really going to know. They’re just going to say, ‘That’s a pretty great stone.’”Meanwhile, cost is also something to consider. For example, a lab-grown ruby is nearly always going to be more affordable than a natural ruby, making lab-created stones more accessible to those shopping on a budget.You can buy other lab-created gemstones beyond these four examples, but they may come with some downsides that may make them undesirable to some shoppers. For example, lab-created opals do not display the more random and unique color patterns that you’ll find in nature.The Pros of Buying a Lab-Grown GemstoneThe pros of buying a lab-grown gem include greater affordability and possibly more eco-friendly characteristics, without sacrificing quality.1. SustainabilityMany tout lab-grown gemstones as a more sustainable and ethical option, and it is true that lab-grown gemstones do not require mining or rely on human labor that often takes place in traditional mining.While this is a pro for lab-grown stones, though, be aware that not all lab-grown gemstones are 100% sustainable. Some of the methods used to create these gemstones require an extensive amount of energy. Any sustainability or eco-friendly claims for lab-grown gems and diamonds should not be taken at face value and must be examined in relation to the producer’s process or the seller’s claims.If sustainability and eco-friendliness is what matters most to you when buying a lab-grown stone, research the particular methods used to create the stone you’re considering buying, and see how it aligns with your personal values.2. AffordabilityLab-grown gems are significantly more affordable than their natural counterparts; for example, a lab-grown center stone for an engagement ring might cost just an eighth of what you’d pay for a natural gemstone of the same cut, carat, clarity, and cut (or shape), aka the Four C’s.This not only means that you’ll spend less overall on a piece of jewelry featuring lab-grown gemstones, but also that you’ll have greater options when shopping. Gemstones or larger pieces that may have been out of your budget previously could be within reach when you swap out natural gemstones for lab-grown variants.Part of the price advantage comes from a lab’s ability to produce what buyers want. “Once you pull a diamond from a mine, you can’t put it back to keep growing or hope the color or clarity gets better,” Rigdon said. “But with lab-grown gems, you can grow them longer or alter the conditions to get a better quality.”Just How Much Could You Save By Buying a Lab-Grown Stone?You could save potentially $3,000 or more by purchasing a lab-grown stone.After COVID-era inflation spikes, lab-grown diamond prices have steadily declined as supply has flooded the market. According to BriteCo’s data published in the 2025 Lab-Grown Vs. Natural Diamond report, the average 1-carat lab-grown diamond costs $1,000 or less compared to about $4,200 for a natural diamond, helping drive the average engagement ring price down from $6,000 in 2021 to $5,200 in 2024. BriteCo While knowing that an engagement ring with a lab-grown center stone might just cost an eighth of what you’d pay for a natural stone of the same size and quality is nice, actually translating those savings into a dollar amount highlights the magnitude of savings you can expect.The Cons of Buying Lab-Grown GemstonesThe downsides of buying a lab-grown gemstone include limited resale opportunities and perhaps a lack of personal connection.1. Limited Resale OpportunitiesLab-grown gemstones are relatively affordable to begin with, and since there’s a potentially infinite supply of lab-grown gemstones on the market, you may find that they have little value or resale opportunities if you decide to sell the jewelry at a later date.“You’re going to get pennies on it as opposed to selling a natural diamond where you’re going to get dollars,” Rigdon said. “It’s really not even comparable. There’s basically no value in reselling lab-grown diamonds.”In comparison, natural gemstones are rare, which ensures they retain their value over time. As such, if you’re looking at gemstones as a potential investment, you’d want to steer clear of lab-grown options.2. The Personal ConnectionSimilarly, when looking at the long-term life of your jewelry, some shoppers feel that lab-grown gemstones carry less tradition and sentimental value. For example, lab-grown gemstone engagement rings aren’t going to hold their value over time, so they may be less likely to become a treasured family heirloom generations after the ring’s purchase. But as Rigdon advises, “The sentimental part is what you attribute to it.”What to Look for When Buying Lab-Grown Gemstone Rings and Other JewelryIf you’ve decided that buying lab-grown gemstones, loose or as part of a piece of jewelry, is right for you, it’s best to shop with the following elements in mind: BriteCo In short, you’ll want to consider the same factors when shopping for a lab-grown gemstone that you might when shopping for a natural gemstone.Lab-Grown Gemstones FAQsAre Lab-Grown Gemstones Real?Yes, lab-grown gemstones exhibit the same chemical composition as natural gemstones.How Do You Know if You’re Looking at Natural or Lab-Grown Gem Rings?When shopping for jewelry, the average untrained eye (and even some professional eyes!) will not be able to tell the difference between a “natural” or lab-grown gemstone, so be sure to talk with your trusted jewelers to learn more about their offerings and the optical properties you can look for, in order to distinguish a lab-grown gemstone from a mined gemstone.Are Lab-Grown and Simulant Gemstones the Same?While the two terms may be used interchangeably, lab-grown gemstones exhibit the same chemistry and physical makeup as a mined gemstone, whereas simulant gemstones are technically considered imitations, encompassing stones made of all sorts of materials meant to mimic the real deal, such as cubic zirconia and diamonds.Does a Lab-Grown Diamond Retain Its Value?Unfortunately, lab-grown diamonds begin to decrease in value once sold, as lab-grown diamonds are relatively easy and affordable to create, making an infinite number possible and thereby reducing each piece’s overall value.What Was the First Lab-Grown Gemstone in History?The very first lab-grown gemstone in the world was a lab-created ruby developed by Auguste Verneuil in the late 1800s.This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to choose a GEO agency: Red flags, questions and considerations How to choose a GEO agency: Red flags, questions and considerationsAs pressure to show up in AI answers grows, so does the number of vendors selling promises they cannot clearly explain. That makes choosing the right partner harder than it should be.If you’re trying to figure out how to choose a GEO agency, look for a partner that can explain how its AI visibility strategy builds on strong SEO foundations, what work it will actually do, and how it will measure business impact over time.This guide from WebFX walks you through what to look for in an AI visibility agency, which red flags to avoid, and what questions to ask before you sign anything.Why choosing an AI visibility vendor got harder so fastAI search is changing how people discover brands, compare options, and get answers. At the same time, the service language around that shift is still settling.According to recent Digiday coverage, there is a growing disconnect in the market: Some agencies treat GEO as a completely new discipline, while others see it as an add-on to existing SEO work. That leaves buyers stuck sorting through competing claims, overlapping acronyms, and a lot of hype-heavy language.That confusion is exactly why vendor selection matters so much right now.You are not just choosing a new service category. You are choosing whether the partner in front of you understands how search behavior is changing without pretending the old rules have disappeared overnight.How to choose a GEO agency: 5 things to considerIf you want to know how to choose a GEO agency, five things in particular stand out as notable GEO agency considerations.1. Past GEO experienceOne of the first things to look at is whether the agency has real experience with GEO, AEO, or broader AI visibility work.That does not mean you need a vendor that treats GEO like a completely separate discipline from SEO. In fact, one of the strongest signs of credibility is when an agency explains that AI visibility builds on strong SEO foundations instead of replacing them.Look for an agency that can speak clearly about:Technical SEOContent qualitySite structureAuthority signalsAI-specific improvements like answer-ready formatting, citation readiness, and entity clarityYou want a partner that can adapt to new search behavior while still building on proven SEO foundations.2. Content strategy approachAnother major aspect of what to look for in a GEO agency is a solid content strategy approach. A lot of GEO tactics ultimately boil down to how you optimize your website content. So, to know how effective an agency’s GEO services will be, look at the kind of content they produce — both for their clients and on their own website. You want an agency that focuses on:Building structured contentExpanding prompt and query coverageMaking answers easier to extractReinforcing key topics and entities across the siteOn top of that, of course, the agency should follow all the other established practices for content creation that have long been a part of SEO, from keyword integration to schema markup.3. Case studies and testimonialsCase studies and testimonials can help you evaluate whether an agency’s pitch matches reality. Still, don’t stop at surface-level proof like flashy claims about “better AI visibility.” You want to see whether the agency can explain:What work it didWhat it prioritized firstHow it measured progressWhat kind of business impact followed over timeStrong proof is usually found in case studies and positive reviews that show a clear connection between strategy, execution and outcomes.4. GEO analytics and reportingFind an agency that’s transparent about how they handle GEO reporting.Analyzing the results of your GEO is crucial for understanding how it’s performing and improving performance over time. Yet only 47% of marketers say they understand how to measure the impact of AI on their campaigns. This highlights the need for an agency with a solid approach to GEO analytics and reporting.For each agency you talk to, it is important to understand how they handle GEO reporting. You want to find an agency with a clear plan for their analytics approach, and you want to ensure that they’ll be open with you about the performance of your campaigns.Ideally, your agency should send you regular reports every month, or at least every quarter.5. Pricing and service packagesYou need a GEO agency that fits within your budget. You don’t want to overpay for an agency that might underperform, and you don’t want to waste money on cheaper packages that won’t deliver. When looking at prices, consider the scope behind them.Ask what the GEO service package actually includes. When comparing GEO service costs, look for deliverables like:A GEO or AI visibility auditTechnical SEO fixes or implementation supportUpdates to high-intent pages, like service pages, pricing pages, product pages and comparison pagesAnswer-ready content formatting and content refreshesEntity clarity improvements across key pagesInternal linking and site structure updatesSchema recommendations or structured data supportPrompt, citation, or AI visibility monitoringReporting on early visibility signals and business-impact metricsOngoing strategy, testing and optimization after the initial setupMany agencies offer service packages with varying pricing, depending on the deliverables you’re getting. So, even if you can’t afford a given agency’s highest-tier plan, they may have a less extensive plan that’s within your budget based on your website’s core needs.What real AI visibility work includesWhen comparing GEO agencies, get clear on what you are actually buying. Credible GEO agencies usually explain AI visibility in two layers: the SEO foundation and the AI-specific layer built on top of it.The foundation still looks a lot like strong SEOA credible partner should talk about the basics that still shape discoverability, trust, and site understanding, such as:CrawlabilityTechnical healthSite structureContent qualityHigh-intent page strengthAuthority and brand trustThese elements still help search engines and AI systems understand your brand, your offerings, and the reliability of your content. One agency leader in Digiday’s report reinforces that fact: “If a GEO service does not openly tell you that success in AI visibility is 80 percent good fundamental SEO, they are selling you snake oil.”The AI-specific layer adds new visibility signalsA reputable GEO partner should also explain what changes in an AI-search environment. That can include work like:Improving entity clarityFormatting pages so answers are easier to extractOptimizing for citation-readinessExpanding prompt and query coverageMonitoring visibility across AI search enginesThat is the difference between a credible AI visibility agency and a hype-driven one. A hype-driven vendor talks like AI visibility is magic. A credible vendor explains how it strengthens the foundation, adds AI-specific improvements, and measures both.How to tell a credible GEO agency from a hype-driven vendorOne of the easiest ways to spot the difference between a hype-driven vendor and a credible AI visibility agency is to compare how they talk about the work. WebFX Pay close attention to the language a vendor uses in early calls and proposals. A hype-driven vendor often leans on phrases like “guaranteed citations,” “instant AI rankings,” or “exclusive GEO tactics” without showing what those claims mean in practice.A credible partner sounds more specific. They explain what they will improve, where they will start, and how that work supports both AI visibility and SEO performance.5 red flags to watch for in an AEO or GEO pitchYou do not need to be an AI search expert to spot weak vendor logic. You only need a few good filters. Here are the top 5 red flags that tell you an agency doesn’t specialize in GEO. WebFX 1. They promise guaranteed rankings, citations, or mentionsA credible agency can talk about increasing your chances of inclusion and improving visibility signals. It cannot guarantee how third-party AI systems will cite or summarize content on every query. When a vendor guarantees outcomes they do not control, it usually signals overconfidence or weak methodology.2. They cannot explain their methodology in plain languageIf the pitch stays at the level of “we help you rank in AI” or “we optimize for generative answers,” keep pushing. A credible partner should be able to say what they will audit, what they will improve, which page types they will prioritize, and how they will measure progress.3. They talk about AI visibility without mentioning SEO foundationsThis is one of the clearest signals that you are hearing a trend pitch instead of a strategy pitch. Strong vendors explain how technical SEO, content quality, information architecture, and authority support AI discoverability.4. They overfocus on one platformA partner can specialize, but they should still acknowledge that AI visibility spans multiple surfaces. If a vendor talks as if one tactic will solve visibility everywhere, that is too narrow for how search actually works now.5. Their reporting stops at “visibility”Visibility matters, but leadership will eventually ask what it is doing for the business. A stronger agency should be able to explain how it tracks early indicators, assisted conversions, qualified traffic, and downstream impact over time.Questions to ask an AEO agency before you hire themThis is the part many buyers skip, even though it is one of the best ways to separate a credible partner from a vague one. Bring these questions into your discovery calls.1. How do you define success for AI visibility?Look for an answer that includes both early indicators and business outcomes. A weak answer stays at mentions or impressions. A stronger answer includes visibility trends, traffic quality, assisted conversions, and revenue influence over time.Geo agencies that offer strong reporting make it easier to update leadership in your company. If you plan to pitch a GEO investment to leadership soon, I recommend reading our resource on how to build the business case for AI SEO for a more successful outcome.2. How does your strategy build on existing SEO work?A credible answer should make it clear that AEO or GEO does not replace SEO. It should explain how technical health, authority, and strong commercial pages support AI discoverability.3. Which AI surfaces do you monitor, and why?You want a thoughtful answer here, not a buzzword list. The agency should explain which platforms matter for your audience and how they track performance across them.4. What proof can you share beyond vague “AI visibility” wins?Ask for examples of reporting, not just claims. You want to see how the agency talks about progress, what it measures first, and how it connects that work to your funnel.5. Which pages would you prioritize first?A good answer should include high-intent assets like service pages, pricing pages, product pages, and comparison pages. Those pages often provide clearer commercial signals, stronger entity context, and better opportunities for answer extraction.6. How do you adapt as AI search changes?This is a fast-moving space. You want a partner that can test, measure, and refine instead of one that sells a fixed checklist and disappears.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What every man needs to know about testosterone and heart health What every man needs to know about testosterone and heart healthMost doctors regularly see a version of the same patient — a man in his early 50s who had the kind of cardiac workup his primary care doctor called reassuring: cholesterol and blood pressure within the traditionally acceptable ranges, no family history of heart disease. What isn’t done as often is a more comprehensive panel, including a marker most physicians don’t associate with heart health: testosterone.Low testosterone is both a warning sign of poor heart health and a potential contributor to it. Men with the lowest testosterone levels have a roughly 40% to 50% higher risk of heart failure than those with healthier levels. But even milder, age-related declines in testosterone levels can increase heart disease risk.Below, Hone Health outlines how low testosterone is linked to heart disease and what it can mean for men who want to better understand their cardiovascular risk.Why Testosterone Matters for Heart HealthTestosterone helps regulate the systems that keep your heart healthy:How your body handles blood sugarHow your arteries functionHow much fat accumulates around your organsWhen testosterone levels drop, those systems drift in the wrong direction at the same time, compounding risk. The damage can begin long before symptoms show up or standard cholesterol tests indicate a problem.Major organizations define a normal testosterone range, which represents the middle 95% of healthy individuals, to be 450–600 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter). Optimal testosterone ranges, which emphasize levels associated with peak functioning and reduced disease risk, may be 700–1200 ng/dL. At healthy levels, testosterone may be protective:Keeps blood vessels flexible and open for blood flowMaintains muscle mass and regulates blood sugarKeeps cholesterol in a healthy rangeTamps down inflammationBut 1 in 3 men between the ages of 40 and 80 have low testosterone. At levels below 300 ng/dL, those protections erode and are linked to a range of heart problems that can cascade into general health dysfunction. Men with chronic heart failure and low testosterone have measurably higher rates of death from any cause in observational studies. Hone Health Testosterone helps protect blood vessel function. Testosterone plays a role in producing nitric oxide, a compound that keeps blood vessels flexible and able to expand when the heart needs more blood — during exercise, for example, or under stress. When nitric oxide production declines, arteries stiffen, blood pressure rises, and the heart has to work harder. Over time, reduced blood flow can starve the heart of oxygen and raise the risk of clot formation in narrowed arteries.Low testosterone fuels chronic inflammation. Low testosterone promotes visceral fat — the deep abdominal fat that drives chronic inflammation, and inflammation is what turns cholesterol from a bystander into a threat. It activates cholesterol particles, drives them into artery walls, and triggers the plaque buildup that can eventually rupture and cut off blood flow to the heart. Men with low testosterone show measurably higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a key inflammation marker and strong predictor of heart attack and stroke. Another way we know low testosterone can drive inflammation is by the fact that adding it back in — through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) — has been shown to reduce inflammation measurably.Testosterone improves insulin sensitivity. Testosterone helps regulate blood sugar by maintaining lean muscle, the body's primary system for absorbing excess glucose from the bloodstream. When testosterone drops, muscles become less effective at that job — blood sugar runs higher, insulin output increases, and the cycle can progress to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance, in turn, promotes the production of small, dense LDL particles that are far more likely to penetrate artery walls and drive plaque buildup than standard LDL particles, which are larger and fluffier and bounce through arteries without causing damage.Testosterone affects blood flow and clotting. Beyond stiffening arteries and accelerating plaque buildup, low testosterone raises hematocrit and fibrinogen, both of which promote clot formation — while reducing the body's ability to dissolve clots that do form. And because testosterone signals bone marrow to produce red blood cells, low testosterone levels lead to fewer oxygen-carrying red blood cells reaching the heart. Together, these effects create conditions where a clot in a narrowed artery is both more likely to form and harder to clear. Hone Health Heart-Safe TestosteroneThe myth that TRT is bad for your heart traces back to bodybuilders and athletes taking five to 10 times a normal dose, unsupervised.Restoring low testosterone to a healthy range under medical supervision is safe and effective. The TRAVERSE study—a large randomized trial of more than 5,000 men—found that testosterone therapy did not increase rates of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke compared to placebo, even in men with existing heart risk.Optimizing testosterone for heart healthStaying in the optimal testosterone range with TRT requires regular tracking of both total testosterone and free testosterone, the portion that's available for your body to use.It also requires monitoring levels of hematocrit, cholesterol and lipid ratios, blood sugar and insulin markers, as well as inflammatory markers, to make sure all stay in a healthy range.Healthy lifestyle habits, including diet, exercise, and stress management, support healthy testosterone production and influence how well the body responds to treatment.This story was produced by Hone Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cyclist hurt in hit and run; Whiteside County deputies search for damaged truck Deputies are searching for a damaged Ram 1500 that left the scene after striking a cyclist on U.S. 30 Sunday morning.
	Gift of Giving - Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities In April 2026, Necker's partnered with the Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities for the Gift of Giving.
	Country star Ella Langley announces Quad Cities concert date Country star Ella Langley will perform at Vibrant Arena at The MARK in Moline on Sept. 26 as part of the newly expanded Dandelion Tour.
	Small businesses are resilient. Data shows they’re also stretched too thin. Small businesses are resilient. Data shows they’re also stretched too thin.Small businesses are still hiring and hustling, but the financial reality underneath is a bit more fragile than their open doors and lit-up welcome signs suggest.The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index generally fluctuates between 90 and 115, with a 52-year average of 98. For April 2026, the index stood at only 95.9, indicating a marked reduction in optimism across industries. One of the 10 seasonally adjusted components of the score also fell for the fourth consecutive month to its lowest level since October 2024. What’s more, the NFIB Uncertainty Index stood at 88 in April 2026, well above the historical average of 68, a significantly elevated result, with only 4% believing conditions will improve.With the added context of what’s happening in the U.S. that is impacting small businesses, it’s easy to see that while Main Street remains resilient, it’s also stretched thin, no matter how you measure this sentiment trend, Thimble reports.Capital Flow Hasn’t Bounced Back to Pre-Pandemic FiguresAccording to Simplywise, compared to pre-pandemic numbers, 30% fewer firms reported revenue growth last year — falling to only 40% of firms surveyed now enjoying increasing earnings compared to 57% in 2025.What’s more, sales expectations for the next quarter hit their lowest reading in 12 months for small businesses. Firms are feeling the impact of numbers being down again month over month since the start of the year, still unpredictably tumultuous and not looking up yet.Only 47% of small business firms were operating at a profit when they were surveyed in 2025, compared to 55%-57% during the pre-pandemic (2016-2019) period. Top reasons cited in April of 2026 for lower profit reports include weaker sales (33%), increasing material costs (13%), and growing labor costs (9%).When revenue slows or is inconsistent, small business owners must look at cutting nonessential costs and streamlining efficiencies where they can. While owners can try to scrutinize every expense, unfortunately, slow capital flow can impact even important facets of their business model. From insurance coverage to digital tools, annual policies or agreements get treated as overhead rather than future-proofing investments.77% Of US Small Businesses Are Still UnderinsuredEven as revenues have improved since 2023, the number of small businesses that remain underinsured has increased. According to a recent 2026 survey by Hiscox, that figure isup from 75% in 2023 — to 77% in 2026. Sometimes the cause of underinsurance isn’t because it’s unaffordable, but rather it’s a knowledge deficiency or awareness issue.One in four (24%) small business owners said they wait to purchase insurance until they work full-time for their venture, while 21% wait to pursue coverage until their profitability exceeds $100,000 annually. What’s more, 83% of small business owners could not correctly describe what professional liability coverage includes, and 74% misunderstood general liability coverage, expecting it to address specific damages that are typically excluded from these policies. Thirty percent even dismissed the need for cyber insurance, specifically, believing that their businesses are too small to be targets, and 69% of survey respondents admit they struggle to understand insurance coverage.Just because business owners are typically experts in their own field of industry, it does not transfer to understanding the risks associated with their operations and/or products. This gap directly contributes to the underinsured population of small businesses. Generally speaking, business owners shouldn’t wait until they are working their venture full-time or exceeding $100,000 in annual revenue to purchase insurance coverage; by then, it may be too late. Not having adequate insurance can lead to vulnerabilities that a small business may not be able to overcome. From big financial blows to irreparable reputation damage, underinsurance is riskier than most small business owners believe.Workforce Gaps Create More Demand for Freelance and Gig WorkersEmployment and hiring challenges continue to plague small businesses across the country. In April of 2026, 18% of owners even cited the quality of the labor they are able to hire as their single most important problem — their top-ranked issue — 3% above the historical average.Thirty-four percent of small business owners reported having job openings they could not fill, and this figure is even higher in rural areas. From one farm equipment vendor in Vermont saying he ran ads for months with no qualified mechanics in the area, to one Tennessee services owner who says he could grow 30% if he had skilled workers available due to the demand that already exists, 94% of owners are still facing challenges like these in their businesses.When workforce gaps exist, owners are forced to get creative about their staffing and look to contractors, freelancers, and gig workers to bridge the gap. While this can be a huge win-win for the workers and business owners, it can also open vulnerabilities in places like security or insurance because temporary or part-time workers don’t automatically fall under owners’ traditional policies and procedures. It’s no surprise that employment practices liability (EPLI) is among the most common coverage gaps for small businesses so far in 2026.Tips for Overcoming UncertaintySmall business owners also have flexibility on their side. Pivoting and evolving are easier when you’re smaller, and you’re the one in the driver’s seat. There are a few ways to create additional resiliency, even if for temporary respite.1. Don’t Overspend CapitalFifty-four percent of businesses facing challenges in 2026 used the owner’s personal funds to cope, stretching themselves thin to prevent further or future financial challenges. Prevent overspending by reducing costs, even temporarily, if you can, and only use personal funds and new loans as a last resort.2. Leverage Your StrengthsDo you have geographical dominance or a unique identifier that you can lean into? Businesses that lean into their niche and make it clear exactly what they offer and how they are better than the competition make it easier for users and customers to see and trust the value faster. Finding and leveraging your small businesses’ strengths are imperative during times of uncertainty.3. Select Monthly SubscriptionsSwitch plans to monthly durations rather than annual to reduce overhead costs. Tools may be slightly more expensive in a month-to-month plan, but the monthly bill won’t break the bank. Make a list of vendors and check in on your options. Some insurance policies can even be purchased in short-term durations. Most tools aren’t all-or-nothing. Exploring your short-term options can make all the difference.4. Don’t Set It And Forget ItMany owners are spread so thin and wearing so many hats that they’ll often set-and-forget about a decision that might end up costing them money or time. For example, if you’re running a marketing A/B test and neglect to reroute all the traffic to the winner, you’re missing out on conversions. If you purchase annual insurance and don’t look at your policy before you auto-renew, you might be overpaying or may be underinsured because your policy should evolve with your business (revenue, employees, locations, etc.).The irony of being a small business owner who is hustling and yet stretched thin and barely making ends meet is that cash flow problems, thin margins and other financial challenges are also the ones who are the most exposed to risks and the least likely to make business changes like update insurance policies when times get tough.This story was produced by Thimble and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

Monday, June 22nd, 2026