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

Tuesday, April 28th, 2026
	Iowa lawmakers tighten release standards for insanity verdicts Iowa lawmakers have made it harder for people found not guilty by reason of insanity to be released.
	Iowa House passes ‘right to repair’ bill for farm equipment The Iowa House passed a “right to repair” bill with bipartisan support Monday that aims to ensure Iowa farmers can more easily repair their own agricultural equipment.
	Here’s what is in ‘Iowa MAHA’ bill that’s one signature away from law The Iowa Senate has approved the "Iowa MAHA" bill, which brings numerous changes to schools, learning, foods, and health treatments.
	The United Arab Emirates says it's leaving OPEC, in a blow to oil cartel The Arab oil producer has long expressed frustration with the quotas it has to follow as part of OPEC, the cartel of major state-owned oil producers.
	The United Arab Emirates is quitting OPEC oil cartel after nearly 60 years The Arab oil producer has long expressed frustration with the quotas it has to follow as part of OPEC, the cartel of major state-owned oil producers.
	New Art at the Airport, Moline, exhibition features work by three artists From April 29-June 29, Quad City Arts presents fiber art by MaryKay Hymes and Diane Murtha, with illustrations on shaped wood by Aaron Butcher, at the Quad Cities International Airport, 2200 69th Ave., Moline. Admission is free, with $2 parking. Diane L. Murtha of Bettendorf, is an award-winning fiber artist, author, international lecturer and instructor. She is a “Don’t put me in a box” artist. Quilting for over [...]
	What’s New at Bickelhaupt Arboretum? The Bickelhaupt Arboretum is celebrating a major milestone with a ribbon cutting after its largest renovation ever. Joining us is Doug Smith to tell us what's new at the Bickelhaupt.
	Resignations, hirings, other Central DeWitt School District personnel news from April The following personnel items are from the April 20 agenda of the Central-DeWitt School Board.
	Retirements, hirings and personnel news from Rock Island-Milan School District for April 14 The following personnel items are from the April 14 agenda of the Rock Island-Milan School District. The School Board met at the Administration Center.
	Bettendorf asking for public input on the future of Forest Grove Park There will also be an opportunity for in-person feedback on Wednesday, May 6, at the park.
	Two Moline High students win the prestigious Harold P. Griffith Scholarship In a surprise, two Moline High School Seniors won the Harold P. Griffith scholarship last Saturday, a scholarship that usually goes to only one student.
	Deadlock over Iran's nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz cripples peace efforts Two months after the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran started the war, peace talks are on hold, with control of the Strait of Hormuz and the future of Iran's nuclear program as the two main points of contention.
	Quiet weather settles in for the rest of the week Our week started out rather stormy and wet in the Quad Cities, but we escaped the outbreak of severe weather in the afternoon and evening. After highs in the 70s Monday, it'll be much cooler for the rest of the week. Here's your complete 7-day forecast.
	Dred Scott This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Very few heroes apply for the job. Most, like the Rock Islander whose story this is, change the course of history not…
	The MAHA movement is mad about glyphosate and Trump's EPA Some people in the MAHA movement are angry with the Trump administration's stance on environmental toxins — including its current support for the maker of the pesticide glyphosate.
	So far, Florida has failed to end vaccine mandates. Now there's a last-ditch effort Florida Republicans have pushed hard to drop some vaccine requirements for children. But after many months, their efforts stalled out. Could this week's special legislative session get the job done?
	Trump's embrace of King Charles comes at a fraught time for U.S.-UK relations Trump seems to be looking forward to hosting, in recent weeks bringing up the royal visit multiple times.
	Should schools get rid of homework? Some educators are saying yes Some experts worry that less homework could be a problem for math achievement, at a time when test scores nationwide are already at a dismal low.
	Stuck in limbo: millions of professionals risk losing legal status under Trump pause Their experiences — of sudden financial insecurity, months of unemployment, and crippling anxiety — come as the administration seeks to restrict legal migration and boost mass deportation.
	Kid Rock flies in Army helicopter weeks after flights near his house drew scrutiny Kid Rock and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth both flew in Army Apache helicopters at a base in Virginia on Monday, weeks after military pilots drew scrutiny for hovering near the entertainer's home.
	Violence escalates in Colombia with dozens of attacks before presidential vote A spate of attacks against civilians and military bases in Colombia's southwestern region has raised security concerns as the country heads to a May presidential election.
	Chocolates recalled in Iowa and Illinois, other states due to undeclared walnuts "A consumer relying on the printed materials could mistakenly consume a nut-containing piece," the notice warns.
	Pompeii archaeologists use AI to reconstruct man killed in volcano's eruption Archaeologists have used AI for the first time to digitally reconstruct the face of a man killed in the AD 79 eruption of Mount Vesuvius, offering a new way to understand one of history's most famous natural disasters.
Monday, April 27th, 2026
	DeSantis rolling the redistricting dice against the odds “Redistricting is going from like a decennial bare-knuckle rugby match to an every-other-year Hunger Games.” — U.S. Sen. Jamie Raskin, D-Maryland Florida legislators will troop back to Tallahassee Tuesday at the behest of Gov. Ron DeSantis, whose special session will require members of his party in both chambers to pass a new congressional map. Leading up to this special session, DeSantis has offered a variety of reasons to justify the need for mid-decade redistricting. “I think if you look at that Florida Supreme Court analysis, there may be more defects that need to be remedied apart from what we’ve already done. I also think the way the population has shifted around Florida just since the Census was done in 2020, I think the state was malapportioned. So, I do think it would be appropriate to do a redistricting here in the mid-decade,” he said during a press conference last year. DeSantis added that he thought Florida got a “raw deal,” arguing the state should have garnered at least two additional seats due to population growth. At the conclusion of the special session, DeSantis and his co-conspirators hope to give Republican congressional leaders some much-needed breathing room if they manage to survive the 2026 midterms. Currently, the House of Representatives is split 217-212, Republicans over Democrats, with one independent and five seats vacant. The 119th Congress has consistently operated with a razor-thin margin, the smallest majority for any party since the 72nd Congress in 1931, CNN says. Republicans’ last chance Political observers say Florida represents Republicans’ last chance to try to redraw congressional district lines before the midterms to ensure Donald Trump continues to elude oversight and isn’t held accountable for what U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen calls his “illegal and unconstitutional ways … that weaken our democratic institutions, slow down our economy, roll back protections for public health and the environment, and put healthcare and Social Security benefits at risk for millions of Americans.” DeSantis’ redrawn maps would add four GOP-leaning districts to the existing 20-8 Republican-Democratic advantage. The goal of the governor and the MAGA Republican crew is to continue to weaken Democratic power while increasing GOP-friendly seats. Yet as The Hill’s Carol Vakil notes, fear is running deeply through Republican circles. “Florida Republicans are barreling ahead with a high-stakes redistricting session as the party looks to offset Democrats’ new maps in Virginia,” Vakil says. “The [redistricting] effort, however, has some Republicans warning Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) to tread lightly, pointing to recent Democratic wins across the states as well as the Florida Constitution’s clear anti-gerrymandering language. They warn the push could pose more risk than reward — arguing that changing the maps could ultimately backfire on the party.” A Florida Republican operative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Vakil Republicans aren’t “all that optimistic” about redrawing new maps. “Redistricting is fraught with peril,” the Florida GOP operative said. “You’re going to be diluting strong Republican districts to try and create other potential Republican districts,” the person added. “And in doing so, if the atmospherics are bad going into the November election, you risk losing those seats.” ‘The less, the better’ Vakil also spoke to another anonymous GOP consultant who is close to DeSantis and the Legislature who discussed the redistricting session. “I don’t feel great about it,” the person said. “I think if you ask most Republican consultants, they’re hoping and praying that they don’t go for many seats.” “The less, the better,” they added. Florida Republicans and others in GOP circles are jittery because of recent Democratic victories in the Sunshine State and elsewhere across the country. In the March special elections, Dems flipped two GOP-held state legislative seats — including the state House district where Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort sits. In addition, Florida’s Constitution has strict anti-gerrymandering language which prohibits lawmakers from redrawing congressional lines for partisan gain. “Anticipating lawsuits against any redistricting plan,” Vakil added, “some in the GOP expressed concern it would be hard to defend the redrawing of maps before the Florida Supreme Court — even though the majority of justices were appointed by DeSantis. Surveys show that most Floridians oppose DeSantis’ plan. “More than 56% of 1,125 likely Florida voters think it’s a “bad idea,” according to an Emerson College poll released last week. That includes 64% of independents and 65% of Democrats, while 57% of Republicans support the idea,” the Florida Phoenix’s Mitch Perry writes. Likewise, Democratic critics in Florida and Washington, D.C., are beating DeSantis about the head and face. ‘F around and find out’ State Senate Majority Leader Lori Berman joined the chorus of Democrats who are firmly opposed to redistricting and who have called it illegal because Florida’s Constitution prohibits drawing new districts for partisan gain or to help or harm incumbents. “Pushing it back one week doesn’t change the fact that there is no reason for us to be doing a mid-decade restricting congressional map,” said Berman after news of the session delay broke. “The same concerns we raised — having to do with the fact that there are no new Census numbers and that the only reason appears to be to get more Republican seats — are still in play. This is a violation of the Fair Districts Amendment and is unconstitutional.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies didn’t mince words. “Our message to Florida Republicans is F around and find out,” Jeffries said, according to Fox News. “If they go down the road of a DeSantis dummymander the electoral tide is turning in Florida.” DeSantis responded by welcoming Jeffries to travel to Florida. The clash between Jefferies and DeSantis happened in the same week Virginia voters approved a referendum to redraw that state’s congressional maps to eliminate four Republican seats. A Virginia trial judge issued an order blocking the results of the referendum; the Virginia Supreme Court heard arguments in the case Monday. Axios’ Marc Caputo and other journalists have demonstrated the different ways DeSantis is playing games. Caputo writes that DeSantis has rejected lawmakers’ calls to have an open process and draw the maps during the regular January lawmaking session. “Instead, he’s embarked on a plan to have his office redraw Florida’s map, rush the plan through the legislature — and try to run out the clock on Democratic court challenges as the state gears up for the Nov. 3 elections,” Caputo explains. Caputo argues that DeSantis’ clock-management strategy is rooted in: The “Purcell Principle,” which generally limits lower courts from overturning election laws too close to an election to avoid voter confusion. The apex doctrine, or executive privilege, which means that because DeSantis’ employees are drafting the maps, the governor’s team could argue in court that executive privilege shields them. Secrecy. “DeSantis’ office is drafting the maps in such secrecy that plaintiffs could have trouble finding whom to depose and what records to look for. That would cause more delays,” Caputo said. Caputo outlines what he calls a crucial “friction point.” “There’s a risk in creating more Republican seats in Florida, which requires breaking up Democratic districts or diluting them. That can make surrounding GOP-held seats vulnerable as they get more Democratic voters,” he writes. “And as gas prices climb and Trump’s poll numbers fall, Republicans could lose once-safe seats as Democrats and independents are added to a district. “It’s yin-and-yang: To make blue seats more purple, you have to make red seats more purple,” said one Florida legislative Republican. The possibility of a partisan gerrymander backfiring has spawned a nickname: “dummymander.” Being the good representative of Florida’s political interests that he is, DeSantis earlier this year explained his rationaleFen for the special session. “Every Florida resident deserves to be represented fairly and constitutionally,” DeSantis said in January. “I will … ensure that Florida’s congressional maps accurately reflect the population of our state and to comply with an upcoming U.S. Supreme Court ruling.” ‘Race to the bottom’ At the end of the day, one opponent said, this is about DeSantis’ political fortunes. “No one in Florida wants this,” Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried told the Phoenix before DeSantis released his map. “Not his own congressional members. Not legislative leaders. Not voters. Fifty-six percent of Floridians just said so in a brand-new poll. Ron DeSantis is fighting a battle nobody asked him to fight, spending money nobody wants him to spend on a map nobody has even seen yet. This has never been about Florida, it has always been about him. That is his legacy: self over service, every single time.” Nationally, MSNBC columnist Michael Cohen opines, the implications for the country are stark. “So, all these special legislative sessions, state constitution amendments and costly referendums could change little. But make no mistake: They will have an impact. A redistricting race to the bottom will create more and more one-party states, with little to no federal representation from a rival political party,” said Cohen, who writes the political newsletter, “Truth and Consequences.” “The country’s already substantial political divides will grow wider and deeper. The standard criticism of gerrymandering is that it allows politicians to choose their voters. The current redistricting craze could have an even more enduring impact — by allowing both political parties to choose what kind of country they want: a red one or a blue one.” Courtesy of Florida Phoenix
	Candidates diverge on school plans in third Republican governor debate From left, Gov. Larry Rhoden, state House Speaker Jon Hansen, U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and businessman Toby Doeden participate in a Republican gubernatorial debate on April 27, 2026, at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. (Photo by Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)The frontrunner for South Dakota’s Republican nomination for governor said his plan to improve student performance will not include mandatory public preschool, as differing ideas about education highlighted the candidates’ third and final scheduled debate. The televised event was staged Monday evening at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. Moderators from Sioux Falls Live and The Dakota Scout asked the candidates how they would improve the state’s 52% student proficiency rate in English language arts and 44% in math. U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, who has led in every publicly released poll so far, pointed to Mississippi’s recent education gains as a model, saying the state went “from 49th in reading to ninth.” “The only difference is that Mississippi has a visionary governor in Tate Reeves, who went all-in on saying that our kids are going to read,” Johnson said. “And when I’m governor, that’s what I’ll do.” [2026 Primary Election Voter Guide: The information and tools you need to cast your vote.] Mississippi’s efforts have included state-funded preschool. Moderator Patrick Lalley asked Johnson, “Are you willing to say it’s time for South Dakota to have pre-K available in every school district in the state of South Dakota?” “We’re not going to have mandatory pre-K in this state,” Johnson said, adding that South Dakota could address early childhood learning through partnerships with schools, businesses and nonprofits. Lalley pressed Johnson again, saying Mississippi officials “talk about the vital role that mandatory pre-K played in turning around those test scores. How can you say you’re going to do that plan but not spend that money?” Johnson said “we don’t have to take all of that lock, stock and barrel.” “That would be kind of a lazy approach for a governor to just say ‘whatever they did, we’re going to do,’” Johnson said. “Instead, we’re going to look at what is evidence-based, what is consistent with South Dakota values, what can we budget for and make sure that we can deliver, and let’s together come up with a roadmap.” South Dakota is one of five states without state-funded preschool, according to a recent report from the National Institute for Early Education Research. State House Speaker Jon Hansen said the state needs to “put parents back in the driver’s seat” by helping children to attend the school of their family’s choice. “Whether that’s in public school, or whether that’s non-public school, or homeschool, I’ve been a supporter of scholarships for families, so that they can choose the best education option for their family,” Hansen said. Asked if the scholarships would be funded by taxpayer money, Hansen said, “correct.” Businessman Toby Doeden said South Dakota’s K-12 budget has grown, but not enough of the money has gone to classrooms, rural schools, new curriculum or teachers. He said too much has gone to education lobbyists and bureaucrats. “The fact that half of our grade school students can’t read and write on grade level tells me that we have a serious issue,” Doeden said. He pledged to create a Department of Government Efficiency that would conduct a statewide audit, including of education, and “make sure the money is going to the people and places that need it the most.” Gov. Larry Rhoden said he has confidence in his Education Secretary Joe Graves to improve student proficiency. Rhoden said his administration is working to restore phonics-based reading instruction. “We’ve changed our curriculum already. We are getting rid of Common Core math,” Rhoden said, referencing a past education initiative supported by the Obama administration, “and we’re moving to common sense.” The primary election is June 2, and early voting is underway. The top vote-getter in the Republican primary for governor needs 35% support to avoid a top-two runoff. The winner advances to the Nov. 3 general election, in which the only other candidate for governor so far is Dan Ahlers, a Democrat who is unopposed for his party’s nomination. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of South Dakota Searchlight
	30 Iowa farmers receiving grants to grow their businesses One of those farmers is Chad Yoder, a pork producer from Lone Tree. He will build a storefront where customers can buy producers directly from his farm.
	Convicted killer in Adrianne Reynolds case to receive settlement in lawsuit A settlement agreement is in effect for one of two people convicted of killing East Moline teenager Adrianne Reynolds in 2005.
	Rock Island Ald. Bill Healy asks council not to consider contract with parents' company Ald. Bill Healy Jr. said Bridges Catering was withdrawing its bid to provide meals at RIFAC, saying questions over his involvement with the company were distracting from city business.
	How Iowa bills could fund pediatric cancer research Iowa's House and Senate passed two different bills to allocate money for pediatric cancer research. House File 2758 would create a pediatric cancer research program at the University of Iowa. Senate File 2480 would pull money from a tax on some nicotine and vape products. Our Quad Cities News Iowa Capitol Bureau correspondent Teodora Mitov looks at [...]
	City of Rock Island considers new housing rehab program using TIF funds The Rock Island City Council took the first step toward launching a new program that would let some homeowners use money from tax increment financing to fix their homes. "It's no secret that Rock Island has some housing difficulties," said Miles Brainard, Rock Island community development director. "We have very old housing, a lot of [...]
	Davenport School District approves property purchase of Iron + Grain, closed car wash The Davenport School Board voted to purchase two properties Monday, including a former carwash on East Locust and the location of Iron + Grain Coffee House in Davenport.
	Rock Island moving forward with tax incentives plan to help homeowners improve housing in north end of town As part of the pilot program, staff will evaluate the performance to create a permanent plan.
	VP Vance no longer coming to Iowa this week Vice President J.D. Vance will not make two scheduled appearances in Iowa this week.
	Our QC Crime Watch: Trudy Appleby case continues; a gun at school: Episode 63 Watch crime reporters Linda Cook and Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in our area with the latest episode of the Our QC Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode Linda and Sharon discuss: Jamison Fisher, the suspect in Trudy Appleby's murder, has hearings on pro se motions. A 16 year old is arrested for [...]
	Iowa Senate sends SNAP restrictions, over-the-counter ivermectin to governor Students eat lunch at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in South Salt Lake, Utah, on March 12, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps/Utah News Dispatch)The Iowa Senate sent Gov. Kim Reynolds’ “Make America Healthy Again” legislation to her desk Monday, a package that includes SNAP restrictions, over-the-counter ivermectin and several school health and nutrition policies. House File 2676, passed 30-16, seeks to make permanent the state’s currently implemented waivers restricting the purchase of unhealthy foods through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the the federal Summer EBT program. The bill does this by requiring the state to “continuously request” approval of these waivers. Another provision requires Iowa medical school students to complete at least 40 hours of coursework on nutrition and metabolic health prior to graduation, and take a nutrition and metabolic health course every four years to remain certified as a physician. Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott, D-West Des Moines, said some of the changes to programs like SNAP do not promote healthy eating choices. She pointed to a report from the Washington Post that quoted some Iowans as being surprised that items like chips and cookies can still be purchased under the restrictions, while items like a “healthy sandwich” cannot be purchased with SNAP. “If we truly want to make Iowans healthier, then we need to help them make better choices, and that needs to be based on nutrition, not on just taxable status of food items in the grocery store,” Trone Garriott said. “We need to work together on real solutions for our neighbors — because they certainly need that support to be healthier, and a big part of that is making sure that Iowans have the resources to buy the healthy foods that are a lot more expensive in the grocery store.” The bill also would allow ivermectin, a drug used to treat parasitic infections that some have claimed can be used in preventing or treating symptoms of COVID-19, to be distributed over the counter by pharmacies. Senators also approved language added by House lawmakers that added several provisions related to food and instruction at Iowa K-12 schools. These changes include restricting digital instruction time to an hour each day and two hours of physical activity a week for K-5 students, requiring schools to use the Presidential Fitness Test in physical education courses, and requiring high schools to be involved in at least one cocurricular or extracurricular activity. Another proposal added by the House requires the state Department of Education to apply for a waiver to the Federal Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to exempt limits on sodium and requirements for whole grain and fruit and vegetable variety. The state DOE would work with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship on new guidelines on what constitutes an “nutritionally adequate meal,” which may reflect “regional food sources, including corn, pork, and dairy.” Additionally, the bill bans certain food dyes and additives, like Red Dye 40, from school meal programs and vending machines. Sen. Molly Donahue, D-Cedar Rapids, said the measure “does not improve health outcomes for Iowans,” particularly for students in rural school districts, which she said will be disproportionately impacted by the proposed changes. “We should be focused on strengthening Iowa’s investments in our schools, expanding access to healthcare, supporting our workforce and making sure every community has a fair shot,” Donahue said. “Instead, this bill promotes use of ivermectin ,and makes it harder for working families to access SNAP. It shifts burdens downward, reduces accountability, asks Iowans to do more with less once again. We can do better than this.” Sen. Kara Warme, R-Ames, said some of the changes being proposed in the bill like the limit on screen time — which comes after Iowa enacted a law restricting cell phone use in schools in 2025 — are also being taken up by others across the country, including at the Los Angeles Unified School District. “We are leading here because we care about kids in our state, and not everything that we do to improve health or education comes from throwing more money at it,” Warme said. Reynolds issued a statement Monday saying she was grateful to lawmakers for passing the bill, which she said “takes common sense steps to improve health and well-being for Iowans of all ages.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	West Liberty plans water expansion as development grows West Liberty plans to boost water production by nearly 70% as development grows, aiming to meet future demand while staying within aquifer limits.
	Beating It: “Michael,” “I Swear,” and “Over Your Dead Body” There's a line, or rather a lyric, that more fully encapsulates what Michael is about, and it's found in Jackson's 1983 smash “Billie Jean”: “And be careful of what you do / 'Cause the lie becomes the truth.”
	Iowa House panels advance prediction market, nicotine tax proposals Iowa lawmakers are considering a bill seeking to impose state regulation on companies that conduct event-driven market trading in Iowa. (Photo by Anne-Marie Caruso/New Jersey Monitor)Iowa House lawmakers discussed several potential tax changes Monday, including a measure adding regulations on event-prediction market platforms like Kalshi. A House subcommittee considered Senate File 2470, which would require companies conducting event-driven market trading to obtain a state permit to operate in Iowa. The legislation aims to tackle the rising industry of “prediction markets” which allow people to bet virtually on a variety of world events, including sports, political contests and events like the Iran war. Permits would have an initial cost of $20 million and annual renewal fee of $100,000. The bill would also implement a 20% tax on adjusted revenue each year from traders within Iowa, alongside a 20% excise tax on the purchase price of each contract on the platform. Overall, the Legislative Services Agency fiscal note on the bill estimated the taxing structure would result in an increase of $40 million in general fund revenue in fiscal year 2027. Revenue projections would decrease to $2.2 million in FY 2027, following the initial permitting costs. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Iowa would be the first state in the country to add these regulations and taxes on prediction markets. Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh spoke to the subcommittee Monday about why Senate Republicans put forward the measure, alluding to the current litigation between KalshiEX, known as Kalshi, and the state. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird signed a friend of the court brief in 2025 in a case between Kalshi and the Maryland’s Lottery and Gaming Control Commission. Later, Kalshi filed a lawsuit against the State of Iowa, where the company argued there was a “substantial risk that the attorney general of Iowa will bring an enforcement action” against the company on behalf of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Kalshi officials are seeking a judgment in the case prohibiting the state from enforcing state laws on gambling in relation to their business in the contract market in Iowa. The company is arguing federal law preempts Iowa from subjecting Kalshi to state law due to it being overseen by the federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Klimesh said the federal court case has “not seen a lot of traction,” prompting Senate Republicans to take action. He said he did not believe the measure introduced this year was a “perfect solution,” but said it was important to take action to establish regulations and guidelines on the industry — especially as the state was already facing a “preemptive lawsuit,” Klimesh said, despite the state not having laws regulating prediction markets. “This is our attempt to try to do something, as opposed to waiting another year when they grow user base,” Klimesh said. But Logan Shine, representing Kalshi, urged House lawmakers not to move forward on the bill because of the litigation while reiterating the company’s position that the federal government has asserted jurisdiction over prediction markets. “I think at this point, given all the litigation around this topic and the likelihood it ends up at the Supreme Court, it would probably be prudent to to pause, take a breath, see where this goes in litigation,” Shine said. He also added, “the money proposed under this bill is not likely to be seen anytime soon from Iowa. I guess we would just caution you as you approach this bill and kind of let the courts decide where they’re at on this.” The subcommittee chose to move the bill forward, acknowledging more discussions were likely to come up. Rep. Shannon Lundgren, R-Peosta, said she was not familiar with the prediction market industry before researching this legislation, but said as she learned more about prediction markets, she saw similarities from her own time working in the casino industry. “This, to me, feels like gambling,” Lundgren said. “But I am, you know, not at a position that I know enough about it to say it is today. But I will certainly sign off on this, but we can keep the conversation going.” Debates on nicotine tax continue Speakers at a House subcommittee on a proposed 5-cent tax on alternative nicotine products and vapes debated whether this proposal was the best way to fund pediatric cancer research at the University of Iowa. Senate File 2480, which passed the Senate with unanimous support, establishes a 5-cent tax on these nicotine products on a per-unit basis. Containers of nicotine pouches would be taxed 5 cents if they contain up to 20 pouches, with a proportionate tax added for each unit above 20. Vapes would have a 5-cent tax per milliliter of nicotine or an analog within a solution that would apply to both disposable vapes and vape cartridges. Revenue generated from the tax would be put into the Iowa healthcare trust fund. The first $3 million generated through the tax would go to the Iowa Board of Regents for pediatric cancer research, clinical therapy trials and physician-scientist leadership at the UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital, while additional revenue generated would remain within the Medicaid funding pool. Multiple parents and loved ones of people diagnosed with cancer as a child spoke in support of the measure, saying it was crucial to provide funding for research and resources for these children. Opponents of the bill emphasized that they supported providing funding for pediatric cancer research, but asked House lawmakers to push for approval of House File 2310. That bill, passed by the House, would create a standing appropriation of $1 for every Iowan, capped at $3 million to go toward pediatric cancer research. Dr. Thomas Gross, a pulmonologist at UI Health Care, said he supported raising and implementing taxes on products like vapes and nicotine products, but said the current proposal would not meaningfully deter users from using these products, which he said drive many health problems in Iowa, including the state’s lung cancer rates. Gross called the measure “cynical.” “It’s cynical because it links a hopeful message of working on better treatments for pediatric cancer with the sale of products designed to engage Iowans and practices that may lead to more adult cancers,” Gross said. “I just can’t live with that.” Marti Post, the parent of Charlie Post, who was diagnosed at age 4 with acute basal lymphoblastic leukemia, said she disagreed with Gross’ characterization of the bill. “I don’t think it’s cynical,” Post said. “It does matter to parents, who’ve lost their kids. When you sit and you watch a child who’s dying, it’s not cynical at all, and it is personal. This is something that many of us have worked on for three years, and we’ve made a commitment too. I know for us, Charlie is here because of kids who have gone before him, and research that he has benefited from, and we want other children to have that same benefit that he’s experienced.” Post said called for lawmakers to pass the bill even if there were concerns about the tax component because, “if we continue to delay and put off, we’ll never have money to fund pediatric cancer research.” She also said she believed the proposed nicotine product tax could also offer a good starting point for further restrictions on these items in the future. “If we look at what we currently have as a starting point, we can possibly begin to make a difference,” Post said. “It might impact a small handful of youth who are vaping. Maybe they will stop. And isn’t that something that does matter? It can always be something that’s built upon.” Jackie Cale, representing the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, warned that the Senate proposal may not generate the full $3 million proposed for pediatric cancer research each year. She pointed to the Legislative Services Agency fiscal note that predicted it will take until 2031 for the 5-cent tax to generate $3 million annually. Sen. Kara Warme, R-Ames, said during Senate debate that industry representatives estimated the tax will generate between $15 million and $18 million in state revenue during the first year of implementation. Rep. Brent Siegrist, R-Council Bluffs, said he supported moving ahead with the legislation because lawmakers wanted to ensure pediatric cancer research is funded this year. He said he understood concerns about the level of taxation under the bill, but said the measure would ensure “two things happen: one, pediatric cancer research is funded, and two, at whatever level, we begin to tax vape and pouches, because they need to be taxed.” “We can argue about what the level may be, but this bill is the start, and so we will certainly move it ahead,” he said. “And this bill is far from a bad bill. It could maybe be a better bill, but it’s certainly something we need to move ahead so we can address those two issues.” Tax approval constitutional amendment moves forward Another House panel also moved forward a measure that would not change any of Iowa’s current taxes — but add a higher bar for legislators to pass tax increases in the future. Senate Joint Resolution 11 would require any increase to the state’s individual or corporate income tax rates, or the establishment of any new income taxes, to win approval through a two-thirds majority vote from the Iowa Legislature to pass into law. If passed by the full House in 2026, it will appear on Iowans’ ballots in the 2026 general election, as the measure passed the Iowa Senate last year, and was approved by both chambers in 2024. Pam Mackey-Taylor, representing the Iowa Chapter of Sierra Club, said the bill should be “accompanied with bright flashing red lights to say, ‘stop, beware and tread carefully.'” She said the measure, if it is added to the state constitution, would cause significant problems as future legislatures face budget deficits. That’s a rising concern among Democrats and some advocates, who are pointing to the state’s budget in the current fiscal year and future projections that rely on reserve funding and transfers from the Taxpayer Relief Fund to supplement revenue loss, driven in part from recent income tax cuts. Mackey-Taylor said the amendment could leave Iowa in a precarious situation if either party does not have a supermajority of control to move forward their preferred income tax policy. “It is difficult to get a supermajority on any controversial bill — just look at what happened in the Senate, the confirmation of two nominees could not get a supermajority,” Mackey-Taylor said. “Look at the gridlock the Legislature has been seeing in getting an eminent domain bill passed. A tax increase would most likely be contentious and an incredibly high hurdle to jump, even though the citizens may be clamoring for services to be funded.” Rep. John Wills, R-Spirit Lake, reiterated at the meeting the current state budget shortfall “was planned” by Republicans, who have accounted for “deficit spending for a number of years, as our revenues catch up to the reduced income that we’re going to have because of a massive tax decrease.” He also emphasized that this language would not automatically become enforceable: Iowa voters would need to give final approval at the ballot box in November if the House approves the resolution. “By affirming this resolution, what we are doing is saying that we’re going to allow Iowans to decide,” Wills said. “And I think that’s important for us to recognize. This doesn’t enact a three-quarters majority vote. It simply puts it on the ballot so that Iowans can decide if they want this to become (a) part of the state constitution.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	7th Circuit upholds ex-Speaker Madigan’s conviction of bribery, other corruption Following a four-month trial, that jury delivered a split verdict in February 2025, ultimately convicting Madigan on 10 of 23 corruption counts, acquitting him on seven and deadlocking on another six.
	Rock Island alderman’s family business withdraws bid for city catering contract amid conflict concerns City staff had recommended Bridges Catering to provide food service at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center, including meals at the city-run preschool.
	Clinton County Supervisors approve opioid settlement and application process "Recovery is a process of change through which an individual improves their health and wellness, lives a self-directed life, and strives to reach their full potential." Dominic Capella recited the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) definition for recovery. It's something Capella knows well. He's working through recovery too; it's a process that [...]
	After Monday, only light rain in the Quad Cities forecast this week We picked up some decent rain Monday as showers/t'storms rumbled through during the morning hours. Now though, it's mostly light rain (or none at all) in the QC forecast. Thursday offers a chance for light rain. And, believe it or not, we're actually up above normal for rain so far this year!
	Can an AI chatbot help your mental health? Benefits—and red flags As more people turn to AI chatbots for things like companionship, life advice, or even as a stand-in for therapy, experts say the technology offers both new opportunities and new risks when it comes to mental health.
	Rock Island alderman denies conflict of interest surrounding family's catering business Rock Island alderman Bill Healy's family business, Bridges Catering, has withdrawn its bid for a city catering contract.
	West Liberty is expanding and applying for modified water use permit Expansion for West Liberty means more water is needed and the city is looking to increase water production by nearly 70%.
	Sister City delegation from Germany tries Whitey's ice cream during visit to Moline Moline city officials said members of the German delegation requested the spot themselves, and none of them regretted it.
	South Carolina's measles outbreak is over. But more are brewing around the country The virus infected nearly 1,000 people in the state before the state declared it over. Meanwhile, cases are spreading across many parts of the U.S., with more than 20 outbreaks currently active.
	The Waiting Child: Building a championship team with the St. Ambrose Fighting Bees More than 200 kids in the area are on the waiting list for a ‘Big.’ Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley needs volunteers to spend time with them. In this week’s The Waiting Child, Our Quad Cities News' Eric Olsen shows us how St. Ambrose University Fighting Bees football and Big Brothers Big [...]
	Maryland property search tool is back online, nearly two weeks after cyber attack Maryland's SDAT search tool for property records is back online following a cyber threat that was discovered April 14. (Photo by Bryan P. Sears/Maryland Matters)Maryland’s property ownership database is back online as of Monday after a nearly two-week hiatus because of a cybersecurity incident. After state officials detected suspicious activity on their servers, they took down the state officials took the State Department of Assessments and Taxation website on April 14, in order to contain the threat and begin an investigation. On Monday, users could once again conduct searches on the site, which lets users view the names of the owners of any property, various characteristics of the property and its sale history. State officials “needed time to analyze the affected servers and remediate any issues that could compromise the system again or make it unsafe for public use,” read a statement from Alyssa Nolte, a spokesperson for the department. After a final round of testing this weekend, the search tool was deemed ready for public use, Nolte said. Officials from the state’s Department of Information Technology said still believe that only public property records, which any user could already find using the website’s search tool, had been accessed during the breach. When the website was inaccessible, Marylanders were advised to use county-level real property assessment offices to obtain needed records. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Maryland Matters
	MuscaBus celebrates decades of transportation service, marks 45 years in community City Administrator Matt Mardesen said the system’s longevity is a testament to its value.
	New sports facility could be coming to Clinton A new sports facility could be coming to Clinton.
	City of Roswell sued for requiring anti-war group to get permit, insurance to distribute free food A new lawsuit from the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty filed April 27, 2026, alleges the City of Roswell violated the free speech rights of Food Not Bombs Roswell, pictured above in 2022, when officials said the anti-war group needed a permit and insurance to conduct bi-weekly food distributions. (Photo courtesy NM Center on Law and Poverty)The City of Roswell is facing a free speech lawsuit over its alleged handling of bi-weekly food distributions at a public plaza in the center of the city, according to an announcement Monday from the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty. The center, which filed the lawsuit Monday, said that Roswell officials illegally prohibited Food Not Bombs, which advocates for an end to hunger through military divestment, from distributing free food at Pioneer Plaza, which sits in front of government buildings on North Main Street in Roswell. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX According to the lawsuit, Roswell officials in late 2025 informed Food Not Bombs that the group would need to get a permit and insurance to continue distributing food at the plaza. As a result, the group has not distributed food in the plaza since November of last year. Instead, the group has held its bi-weekly giveaways at a church that is far from public transportation and the city center, said Jocelyn Smith, a founding member of Food Not Bombs Roswell, in an interview Monday with Source NM. The group provided food to as many as 150 people, many of them unhoused, at least twice a week, Smith said. At its current location, the group feeds roughly 30 people, she said, and the group has had to turn down food donations as a result. “It’s been super huge,” Smith said of the impact of relocating. “Us not being there is hindering us from being able to serve food out when we need to.” The lawsuit alleges that a Roswell ordinance that governs the permitting process for vendors and events is unconstitutional and overly broad. It further alleges that the city unfairly restricted Food Not Bombs while allowing other groups to distribute free food without a permit. City of Roswell spokesperson Todd Wildermuth declined to comment, citing the pending litigation. The lawsuit says the group’s distributions amount to “expressive food sharing” protected by the state Constitution. Because the group has an explicit anti-war political message, distributing food is protected speech, said Marco Alarid White, a lawyer for the center. “It’s a mutual aid, collective approach, with that kind of message baked in about food being a human right and wanting to get away from a society that promotes militarism,” Alarid White told Source NM on Monday. “Our state Constitution protects the kind of food sharing being done by Food Not Bombs Roswell, which is expressive conduct.” Alarid White said the center’s lawsuit is likely the first free speech lawsuit in New Mexico centered around free food distributions. The lawsuit asks a judge to declare the city’s permitting ordinance as unconstitutional and prohibit the city from enforcing it. It also seeks damages for Food Not Bombs for “loss of rights” the group experienced under the state Constitution. 5:13 pmThis story has been updated to include comment from a city of Roswell spokesperson. Courtesy of Source New Mexico
	At Bettendorf Library, QC authors will gather to discuss storytelling Whether you are an established author, an enthusiast of the written word, or you fall somewhere in between, the Bettendorf Public Library invites you to explore the world of storytelling at itsupcoming Local Author Showcase. From 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 7 at fBettendorf Public Library, 2950 Learning Campus Drive, delve into the intricacies of writing [...]
	After being fired from four hospitals, nurse was hired by Shenandoah hospital (Photo courtesy of the Iowa Board of Nursing)A nurse who landed a job at Iowa’s Shenandoah Medical Center after being fired by four Nebraska hospitals is now facing charges for the alleged theft of controlled substances. The Iowa Board of Nursing has charged Bailie Anne Preston of Emerson with misappropriating medications or supplies of a patient or agency, and with being involved in the unauthorized possession or use of a controlled substance. As is customary with Iowa’s licensing board, the Board of Nursing has not specified the alleged conduct that gave rise to the charges or indicated where or when it may have occurred. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX However, Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services alleged last year that after working as a registered nurse for Nebraska Medicine in Omaha, from January through July of 2023, Preston was fired for failing to respond to a patient with critically low blood pressure, failing to complete her required education, leaving her post for extended periods of time and for unexcused absences. According to the Nebraska regulators, Preston then went to work for Nebraska Methodist Health System in Omaha. She was allegedly fired from that job in September 2023 after being accused of leaving her post for extended periods of time, failure to complete patient assessments and inadequate patient charting. Regulators allege that when Preston then applied for a job at Johnson County Hospital in Tecumseh, Nebraska, she stated her reasons for leaving her previous two jobs was “sparse opportunity for growth” and “looking for something closer to my secondary residence.” While working the Johnson County Hospital’s overnight shift on Dec. 15, 2023, Preston allegedly wrote in a patient’s file that she had twice given the woman morphine for pain. Preston then walked down a hallway where she entered a bathroom, according to regulators. The patient is alleged to have then told one of Preston’s colleagues she had not received any pain medication. The colleague allegedly searched the bathroom where Preston had been and found an empty syringe, regulators reported. According to Nebraska regulators, Preston then refused the hospital’s request that she submit to a drug screen, asserting that it would reveal the presence of morphine in her system for which she had a prescription. She was subsequently fired, according to regulators. In May 2024 and June 2024, Nebraska licensing officials attempted to contact Preston by mail, phone and email but, the officials allege, Preston never responded. With her Iowa nursing license still in place, Preston was able to continue working as a nurse in Nebraska due to the two states’ interstate compact. In October 2024, Nebraska officials allege, Preston went to work at the Community Medical Center in Falls City, Nebraska. In December 2024, the medical center allegedly inventoried its drug supply and discovered there were four missing vials of Benadryl. The facility concluded Preston was the only person with access to the drug during the relevant time period, and fired Preston for diverting drugs to her own use, Nebraska regulators allege. In August 2025, with her Iowa nursing license still in effect, Preston was working in Page County, Iowa, at the Shenandoah Medical Center. In early September 2025, she was criminally charged with theft and felony possession of a controlled substance for allegedly stealing one box of injectable morphine sulfate from the Shenandoah Medical Center. According to the police report, Preston took possession of the morphine while at work and then “hid the item under her clothing, exited the building to go to her vehicle, stashed the vials of morphine in her vehicle and eventually left for the day to go home. The 10 vials of morphine were not recovered, but the box that contained the morphine had been recovered since she discarded it in a dumpster.” Preston has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges, and a trial is now scheduled for May 26, 2026. In November 2025, Nebraska state officials charged Preston with unprofessional conduct, failing to cooperate with state investigators, and failing to report her firings within 30 days as required. Preston subsequently agreed to a two-year-minimum revocation of her ability to practice in Nebraska and also agreed to pay a $2,000 civil penalty. At around the same time that settlement was reached, the Iowa Board of Nursing filed its disciplinary charges against Preston, although those charges were only made public this month. State records indicate a board hearing on the Iowa disciplinary charges is scheduled for June 30, 2026. Iowa Capital Dispatch was unable to reach Preston for comment. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	3 dogs rescued in Sterling house fire The Sterling Fire Department responded to a house fire at the 800 block of Avenue I Monday morning.
	State of Illinois, Adrianne Reynolds' killer reach settlement Harli Quinn alleged she suffered violent attacks and abuse by prison staff after being housed in a men's prison after she had transitioned.
	Arconic Davenport Works seeks public input to name eaglets on Eagle Cam Arconic Davenport Works is asking the public to help name two newly hatched eaglets on its Eagle Cam. Submissions are open through an online survey.
	UA Fayetteville appropriations bill stalls in Arkansas House An American flag flies in the breeze outside Old Main on the University of Arkansas Fayetteville campus on Oct. 17, 2025. (Photo by Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate)Objections over the University of Arkansas Fayetteville’s plan to divert funding to its athletics department prompted House lawmakers to reject the institution’s appropriation bill Monday. The University of Arkansas Board of Trustees in March authorized the system president to provide $3.4 million in additional funding for athletics, less than the $6 million the panel sought earlier. The move, which comes as universities feel pressure to generate more revenue to stay competitive with recruiting, faced pushback from students and lawmakers. Rep. Brit McKenzie, a Rogers Republican who’s been a vocal critic of the decision, sent trustees a letter signed by a bipartisan group of lawmakers opposed to the funding plan in February. Last week, he proposed changing the UA’s appropriation bill to block the transfer for a year, but his proposal failed in committee. McKenzie said Monday he was concerned about students being charged a fee to cover the cost of the transfer. Voting for the bill would send the message that the Legislature is okay with “students bearing the responsibility and the cost of athletics,” he said. “That’s objectionable,” McKenzie said. “There are other institutions in this state that charge some type of an athletic fee. They don’t operate at a $200 million of revenue the University of Arkansas Fayetteville does.” The athletics department reported a $6.89 million surplus in the 2025 fiscal year, according to Whole Hog Sports. Let us know what you think... Rep. Jim Wooten, a Beebe Republican who also spoke against the bill, said supporting the board’s actions would open the door to asking for more money in the future to support an athletics department that “makes an awful lot of money” on its own. A former football coach, Wooten argued universities don’t need to pay players. “We’re giving them free house, free board, free education and a degree from the University of Arkansas, which means an awful lot,” he said. “And if that’s not enough, let them go somewhere else and play football.” The bill failed in the House by a 21-58 vote. The bill received unanimous approval in the Senate Thursday with two members of the 35-member chamber absent. The measure needs at least 75 votes in the 100-member House to pass. There is no limit to how many times lawmakers can vote on an appropriations bill, so the House could bring the UA legislation back up for another vote. It’s not unusual for certain appropriations bills to fail repeatedly before ultimately receiving approval by the session’s conclusion as a way for lawmakers to express their disapproval of an agency. Time is running short for additional votes with this week expected to be the last of the 2026 session. If lawmakers finish their budget work without approving the UA’s appropriations bill, they could address it in a special session. The state took this action in 2024 when legislators voted down the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s appropriations bill because of a dispute over the director’s salary. Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders plans to call lawmakers back into session next week for a special session focused on cutting income taxes. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Arkansas Advocate
	Communities in Western Illinois cleaning up following severe weather There were a total of six tornadoes identified on Thursday.
	Five Iowa dog breeders listed among this year’s ‘Horrible Hundred’ puppy mills An animal-welfare organization has released its annual, national report on problem puppy mills, with five of the “Horrible Hundred” businesses located in Iowa.
	Nation’s largest measles outbreak is over, SC health officials say South Carolina's measles outbreak, which became the largest in the nation in decades, came to an end Sunday, April 26, 2026. (iStock / Getty Images Plus)COLUMBIA — The nation’s largest measles outbreak in decades came to an end Sunday, after more than a month without sickening anyone, according to the state health department. The six-month outbreak infected 997 people, including at least 21 who required hospitalization, according to health department data. No one died. South Carolina’s was the largest reported cluster of measles cases in the nation in the past 35 years, according to the health department. Officials declared it over after receiving no related reports of new cases in the past 42 days, which is double the virus’ incubation period. “No one asks to be part of an outbreak, but thanks to the dedication of many South Carolinians, from school and hospital staff, medical providers, faith-based groups, the (Department of Public Health) team, businesses, and families working together, we have overcome this outbreak,” interim public health director Ed Simmer said in a statement Monday. Measles outbreak by the numbers 997 people infected Exposures detected at 33 schools in seven districts 874 students asked to quarantine 1,670+ individual phone calls made by case investigators 3,788 additional doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine given in Spartanburg County when compared with the previous year 14,745 additional doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine given in the Upstate when compared with the previous year 81,096 doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine given overall statewide More than 5,800 infants vaccinated before typical first recommended dose $2.1 million spent in the agency’s response 2,294 quarantine letters sent 30 consecutive weeks, including weekends, worked by public health officials Source: Department of Public Health Health officials did diagnose one person in Saluda County during the 42-day window, the health department said April 17, but officials determined the case was separate from the larger outbreak in the Upstate. That person had recently returned from a trip abroad, according to the department. The outbreak primarily affected unvaccinated children in Spartanburg County. Of those sickened, at least 93% had not received either of the vaccine’s two doses. Spartanburg County residents accounted for 94% of cases, and 90% were under the age of 18, according to health department data. Health officials credited the end of the outbreak to increased vaccination rates, a high number of people obeying quarantine orders and staying home after exposure and the natural immunity people infected with the virus received. Although people infected gain a barrier of protection against future infection, it comes with significantly higher health risks than vaccination and preventing the disease outright, said Brannon Traxler, the agency’s chief medical officer. Short-term cases can lead to pneumonia or encephalitis. And in rare cases, measles can cause complications that don’t surface for years, such as fatal brain disorder called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Measles can also cause “immune amnesia,” erasing the body’s knowledge of how to fight certain infections, according to the public health agency. The health department did not track the severity of cases, so it’s unclear how often these issues arose. But even in mild cases, those infected likely spent days to weeks dealing with a loss of appetite, low energy and the disease’s characteristic rash, Traxler told reporters Monday. “They just didn’t feel well,” Traxler said of those infected. “I don’t think anyone wants to see their children suffering, and that is very much a component that is not captured by pure numbers.” Altogether, the state spent an estimated $2.1 million on staffing and vaccine costs. Public health employees worked 30 weeks straight, including through the winter holidays, and hosted free vaccine clinics for the Upstate, Traxler said. “Ending this outbreak was a monumental effort” for the department, she added. Beyond just the health care costs the outbreak may have had other impacts, such as parents taking off work to care for sick children or quarantining themselves, as well as the effect on businesses where exposures occurred. How did we get here? Officials considered measles eliminated in 2000, 37 years after the introduction of the vaccine. But the past two years brought a naitonal surge in the highly contagious virus as vaccination rates, especially among children, fell. In South Carolina, the rate of students who received all their vaccines before starting school dropped in recent years, from more than 98% a decade ago to 94% during the 2024-2025 school year, according to state health department data. The vaccination rate for school children in Spartanburg County, the outbreak’s epicenter, was even lower than the average. Just under 90% of students were fully vaccinated during the most recent school year, according to the data. Although state law requires all students at private and public schools be up to date with immunizations, families can apply for exemptions for religious or medical reasons. More students have received religious exemptions in recent years, especially after students returned to school following the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 8% of Spartanburg County’s students had a religious exemption in the 2024-2025 school year, surpassing every other county in the state. While a medical exemption requires a doctor’s note, a religious exemption requires only a parent’s signature and notarization. A panel of senators rejected a bill last month that would have eliminated these religious exemptions. In all, nearly 900 students in 33 schools across seven districts missed weeks of school as they quarantined because of exposure to the measles from classmates, according to the department. Cases surged in January, when winter break made tracking down exposures to confirmed cases more difficult, officials said at the time. Since the beginning of the outbreak, vaccinations against measles increased statewide, Traxler said. Spartanburg County residents received nearly 4,000 more doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine during the past six months than they did during the same period the year before, according to health department data. “I genuinely believe that everyone out there is trying to do what’s best and trying to make the best decisions for their children,” Traxler said. “I’m a parent myself. I understand the struggles that we all go through, just trying to decide, in each and every decision for our children, what is going to give them the best opportunity for the future.” In addition to schools, many cases also spread from churches. Among those were churches that held services spoken in Ukrainian and Russian. With that in mind, the health department made a concerted effort to reach people in those communities, Traxler said. People who have fled their countries, often because of the government, may be skeptical of any sort of government-led program, Traxler said. Ot they may not have access to information about the vaccine or how to get it. “They have a reason to have the doubts that they do,” she said. “So, then it’s providing that respect, that lack of judgment, and building trust.” Health officials translated vaccine information into Ukrainian and Russian, and they visited Upstate churches to work with faith leaders and get correct information to people who needed it, Traxler said. The department did not release demographic information on those infected beyond their age and the county where they lived, so the number of people attending these churches who sickened is unclear. What happens next? Now that the health department has declared the outbreak ended, it is reviewing data, looking for anything it could have done differently or detected earlier, Traxler said. For one, the department could have done more to monitor hospitalizations and outcomes of cases, rather than only tracking diagnoses, Traxler said. “The outbreak is over, but our work to understand and prevent measles and future outbreaks is not,” she said. As nation’s worst measles outbreak continues, SC senators OK bill banning vaccine mandates And while individual measles cases are still likely to pop up from international travel, the department’s primary goal is to keep those cases from expanding into another outbreak, Traxler said. A large part of that effort will involve continuing to increase the rate of people vaccinated. Most people receive two doses of the vaccine between the ages of 1 and 6, which protects against about 97% of infections. Most adults do not need booster shots, but anyone who hasn’t gotten both shots should consider doing so, Traxler said. “Although I hope we do not have another outbreak, if we do, I am convinced South Carolina is well prepared,” Simmer said in a statement. “As we learned from this response, South Carolinians are strong, we are resilient, and when challenged, we rise to the occasion and are better, together.” Courtesy of South Carolina Daily Gazette
	What's ahead as Illinois and Iowa SNAP requirements change May 1? Some Illinois and Iowa residents are on track to lose Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits when new eligibility requirements take effect Friday, May 1. Advocates and small business owners are worried about how the loss will impact the community.SNAP currently provides nine times the meals that food pantries do. The program also accounts for [...]
	Kwik Trip mascot is on a Midwest tour Red the Rooster is on a Midwest tour, and the Quad Cities actor that brings the Kwik Trip mascot to life shares the experience.
	3 dogs rescued from Sterling house fire Three dogs were rescued from a house fire in Sterling Monday morning.
	3 dogs rescued from Sterling house fire No one was injured in a house fire Monday morning in Sterling, according to the Sterling Fire Department . The fire started about 9 a.m. in the 800 block of Avenue I. Fire crews arrived to find fire and smoke coming from the roof-line of a split-level home. Neighbors reported the residents were at work. [...]
	Runners, take your marks for the Quad Cities Running Festival Runners, take your marks for a Memorial Day journey along the Great River Trail on the Mississippi River. Steve Abel joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the Quad Cities Running Festival. For more information, click here.
	Celebrate life-changing impact at YouthHope's 90th Anniversary Benefit Gala Celebrate 90 years of life-changing impact for kids and teens in the QCA! Esther Joy King joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the 90th Anniversary Benefit Gala for YouthHope. For more information, click here.
	Free Putnam talk by Smithsonian curator to consider America at its 250th The Putnam and Museum & Science Center will welcome a Smithsonian Institution curator this Thursday, April 30 for a free talk, “Between Hope and History: Curating America at 250."
	Salt Lake Board of Realtors is offering $240,000 in grants to first-time homebuyers A home for sale in Salt Lake City is pictured on Monday, July 22, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)The Salt Lake Board of Realtors on Monday announced that it has a total of $240,000 in down payment assistance available for eligible first-time homebuyers this year. The program, called the American Dream Grant, was started by the Salt Lake Board of Realtors’ Charity Committee in 2019. It offers buyers $10,000 in individual grants, meant to help homebuyers with down payments and closing costs. To qualify for the grant, according to the board’s website, homebuyers must: Have a real estate agent who is a member of the Salt Lake Board of Realtors. Be a first-time homebuyer or have not owned a home within the last three years. Have a credit score higher than 640. Have a household income of no more than $141,400. Must be purchasing an owner-occupied home. Modular and manufactured homes qualify, but mobile homes don’t. Must close on the home purchase within 90 days of being awarded the grant. If not, the money will be forfeited. Must be pre-qualified with a mortgage lender before applying. So far this year, eight $10,000 grants have already been awarded to homebuyers, the Salt Lake Board of Realtors said in a news release issued Monday. Winners of the next four grants will be announced on May 20. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Salt Lake Board of Realtors agents can apply for their qualifying clients online on the board’s website. “Helping first-time buyers achieve homeownership strengthens our communities and creates lasting stability for families,” Scott Colemere, president of the Salt Lake Board of Realtors, said in a prepared statement. “These grants not only provide financial assistance but also demonstrate the generosity and commitment of Realtors to giving back.” In total, as of the end of last year, the Salt Lake Board of Realtors had awarded about half a million dollars in grants. Housing affordability remains a top issue facing Utahns, with home prices that skyrocketed amid the COVID-19 pandemic and a longstanding housing shortage that continues to pinch supply. In 2024, Utah’s housing market ranked as the ninth most expensive in the nation, according to a report published last year by the University of Utah’s Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. Utah’s statewide median home sales price was $505,000 as of February, according to the Utah Association of Realtors. The Salt Lake Board of Realtor’s grant program isn’t the only one available to Utah home shoppers. In 2023, the Utah Legislature used $50 million to create the state’s First-time Homebuyers Assistance Program, administered by the Utah Housing Corporation. Lawmakers in 2025 added $20 million to the program, and another $10 million earlier this year. Since its creation, the state’s program has helped about 3,000 Utahns buy homes. It offers up to $20,000 in no-interest loans to go toward the purchase of a newly-constructed, not yet inhabited home with a sale price that doesn’t exceed $450,000. The loan can be used for a down payment, closing costs and a permanent interest rate buy down. The state program still has capacity to help about 338 Utah homebuyers, according to the Utah Housing Corporation’s website. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Utah News Dispatch
	Rock Island to consider using tax incentives to help homeowners improve housing in north end of town As part of the pilot program, staff will evaluate the performance to create a permanent plan.
	Supreme Court heard case on how to label risks of popular weed killer How the Supreme Court rules could have implications for tens of thousands of lawsuits against Roundup maker Monsanto, which is now owned by Bayer.
	Rx Kids to take on largest expansion yet, with legislative support from both sides of the aisle Several Detroit mothers who will benefit from Rx Kids sit on stage on Feb. 9 at the MSU Detroit Center during a press conference announcing the expansion of the cash assistance program. \| Photo by Martin Slagter/Michigan AdvanceRx Kids, a prenatal and infant direct cash support program that started in Flint in 2024 and has since reached into 42 communities across Michigan, will add 20 additional communities around the state this summer, marking the program’s largest expansion since its launch. The latest rollout will include areas in Calhoun, Genesee, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Muskegon and Wayne counties becoming eligible throughout the summer. Elected officials from around the state, especially those who represent regions becoming eligible for the program, celebrated the expansion, with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer saying that it is “improving health outcomes, putting money in Michiganders’ pockets, and giving families a fighting chance to thrive.” The expansion is coming as the program is under heavy fire from top Republicans in the state Legislature, notably both House Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Twp.) and House Appropriations Chair Ann Bollin (R-Brighton), who have advocated to cut out all state funding for the program — $20 million — in addition to the significant cuts made to the program’s state funding in a unilateral decision from House Republicans on the Appropriations Committee at the end of 2025. Hall has launched a number of allegations at the program, which he called “a complete scam,” arguing without evidence in recent weeks that mothers receiving money through the program were spending it on drugs and alcohol, though a report published by Rx Kids in March shows virtually no spending on luxury or discretionary items. Meanwhile, Bollin alleged that money from Rx Kids, a prenatal and infant direct cash support program, was going to parents who would take the money and then get abortions, though she also provided no evidence for her claims. A press release from Michigan State University, which is a sponsor of the program, noted that funding from the state, as well as other sources, will determine whether or not the program is able to further expand — adding that more than 25 communities applied to join Rx Kids in the current expansion, and even more expressed interest for future expansion opportunities. Rx Kids also recently expanded to three additional communities in early April. Dr. Mona Hanna of Flint, Mich. speaks about Rx Kids at a news conference in the Michigan Capitol Building with state Senate Democrats on Mar. 12, 2025 \| Photo: Anna Liz Nichols “Future application cycles and expansions will depend on sustained state investment, including restoration of previously cancelled funds, continued annual TANF support, and strong enrollment across communities,” the press release noted. However, two Republican state legislators from cities included in the newest expansion broke with their party’s leaders and were quoted in the press release celebrating its expected impact on their communities. “When a mother makes the courageous choice to bring life into the world, it is critical she has a necessary support system,” Rep. Steve Frisbie (R-Battle Creek) added. “Programs like Rx Kids ensure Calhoun County families and their newborns receive the resources they need.” Dr. Mona Hanna, who founded Rx Kids in Flint and leads the program throughout the state, noted in a previous interview with the Advance that evidence shows that the program is supporting mothers’ decisions to keep their baby and not have an abortion for financial reasons — adding that the program is supported by the Michigan Catholic Conference, which is notably against abortion, for being pro-family. “Supporting families starts with supporting moms and babies,” said Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson). “I’m committed to advancing state programs that provide meaningful support to mothers and their children—while protecting taxpayer dollars—because families are the foundation of our state’s future.” Democrats representing the newly included communities also were quick to advocate for the program in the announcement. “As a mother and lifelong member of this community, I believe our work should always come back to one simple question: are we making it easier for families to build a life here?” Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids) said in the press release. “Rx Kids is going to do just that by lifting the burden families often carry during pregnancy and early infancy and giving them the stability they need to thrive.” Courtesy of Michigan Advance
	North Kingstown neighbors sue state agencies over sludge plant project Quonset Development Corporation, the quasi-public agency that oversees Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown, is one of several state agencies named in a new lawsuit filed by town residents over a sludge processing plant. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current)After securing backing from town officials, state legislators and the top two Democratic gubernatorial candidates, North Kingstown residents are now turning to the state court to cement their efforts to block a controversial sludge processing plant planned for Quonset Business Park. The lawsuit filed in Providence County Superior Court Friday alleges the state agencies charged with authorizing the high-heat sewage processing project failed to consider the health, environmental and safety effects for the surrounding neighborhoods, nor give adequate public notice and feedback opportunities. Quonset sludge-processing plant deal broke no laws. Community trust is another matter. The 23-page complaint, filed by North Kingstown Residents for Clean Air and Water, and one nearby resident, Daniel Ferranti, asks a state judge to throw out an air quality permit and a lease agreement for the project, while awarding compensatory damages through a jury trial. Quonset Development Corporation, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) and Rhode Island Commerce are named as defendants, along with project developer QSS Biosolids and its parent company, Green Development. The $150 million project, which proposes to turn solid sewage waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer through a high-heat process called pyrolysis, has already been paused, pending a comprehensive legislative study of the state’s shortage of wastewater treatment options. Woonsocket has already signaled its intent to close the regional wastewater incinerator, one of two in the state. Despite verbal agreements by Quonset Development Corporation, which oversees the industrial park where the project would be built, and QSS Biosolids not to move forward until the legislative study commission concludes its work in February, local residents remain distrustful. “The Plaintiffs lack an adequate remedy at law to redress the Defendants’ unreasonable interference with rights common to the general public, which cause the Plaintiffs to suffer special harm distinct from those common to the public,” the complaint states. “Absent judicial intervention, the public and the Plaintiffs will continue to suffer harm resulting from the Defendants’ unreasonable interference.” Their skepticism stems from the perceived backroom deals that led to the project gaining preliminary approvals without widespread public knowledge. “RIDEM and QDC deprived the public of its right to participate in the process of a significant project that will have substantial environmental, health, and safety impacts on the community,” the lawsuit states. Quonset’s 11-member board of directors, which includes two representatives from the town, authorized a long-term lease for the project in November 2024. Environmental regulators approved an air quality permit in January. But the families who live, work and go to school in the neighborhoods surrounding the industrial business park did not know about the project until March, due to limited public advertising by Quonset’s board, and none required for the environmental permit. The site at All American Way in the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown where QSS Biosolids hopes to build a high-heat sludge processing plant. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current) ‘Shocks the conscience’ Outrage erupted as residents, town officials, and state lawmakers learned of the approvals that took place without their knowledge and delved into details of the emerging and mostly untested technology which seeks to avoid the smell and pollutants of traditional sewage incineration. Indeed, the lawsuit alleges both DEM and Quonset violated the plaintiffs’ constitutional due process rights. “By acting arbitrarily, capriciously, and unreasonably in its approval of the Lease without any relevant information regarding the Facility, QDC and the QDC Board engaged in conduct that shocks the conscience, thereby violating the Plaintiffs’ substantive due process rights protected by the Constitution of the State of Rhode Island,” the complaint states. Steven King, Quonset’s managing director, acknowledged the lawsuit but did not comment on the allegations. “QDC continues to fully support the commission process and looks forward to its report early next year,” King said in a statement Monday. “We welcome the ongoing civil and constructive dialogue with the community and all stakeholders.” But the quasi-public agency has also postponed a scheduled question-and-answer session with residents planned for its Tuesday night meeting, citing the pending litigation. The agency previously defended its actions in reviewing and authorizing a 25-year lease with QSS Biosolids, having advertised the meeting agenda and published public meeting minutes after, in compliance with state open meetings requirements. Details of the lease agreement were discussed in executive session, but also made publicly available at the Nov. 19, 2024 meeting. No one from the public attended, however, according to meeting minutes. The lease, while authorized, has not been executed, contingent upon the developers first completing a scaled demonstration that proves it can “achieve the intended results.” The project also still needs three more environmental permits from DEM for wetland construction, stormwater control and sludge operations. As the quasi-public agency charged with overseeing development in the 3,200-acre business park, Quonset’s appointed board is not required to hold community input sessions or even let town officials know. The North Kingstown Town Council approved a resolution at its March 30 meeting asking Quonset’s board to rescind the lease, condemning the lack of public input. Town Manager Ralph Mollis has also taken the plight directly to Gov. Dan McKee, who pledged to stand with community members in their opposition. Both McKee and his Democratic primary rival, Helena Buonanno Foulkes, are scheduled to attend the North Kingstown Town Council meeting Monday. The meeting agenda includes an update from town officials on “active issues involving Quonset Business Park” and potential action authorizing the town manager to advocate for the community regarding the pyrolysis facility. An agreement with Desautel Browning Law to serve as environmental counsel to the town for the sludge project is also scheduled to be presented during the Monday night meeting. No legal action by the town has been taken yet, Mollis confirmed in an interview Monday. “How this lawsuit works with the various legal remedies on the town’s side remains to be seen,” Mollis said of the community complaint. “From day one, the residents have been extremely passionate, and rightfully so, about this issue whether it’s a lawsuit or the attending council meetings. They need to be commended.” The looming closure of the Woonsocket Wastewater Treatment Facility (pictured) has added pressure to the state’s shortage of sewage treatment options. (Photo by Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current Major v. minor The lawsuit also alleges that DEM incorrectly classified the potential emissions from the project, allowing it to bypass a public hearing and more stringent review. A consultant hired by QSS to submit the air quality permit argued only a “minor source” permit — rather than a “major source” permit equating to a higher level of pollution — was needed because pyrolysis is not mentioned by name in federal or state regulations governing incineration and sludge treatment, DEM in its technical review agreed that the combined emissions did not exceed the threshold for the less stringent permit. “Simply put, the public had no information or notice related to the use of the Property, the Facility’s permitting, or approvals related to the Facility until the Permit was approved on January 23, 2026 — over fourteen (14) months after the QDC approved Global Soil Solution’s Lease,” the complaint states. “The public was deprived of information, participation in the approval and review processes, and required notice in connection with the Facility’s leasing, approval, and permitting.” Evan LaCross, a spokesperson for DEM, declined to comment on the pending litigation. Patti Doyle, a spokesperson for QSS Biosolids, said the company’s legal counsel is reviewing the complaint. Giselle Mahoney, a spokesperson for Rhode Island Commerce, acknowledged but did not immediately respond to inquiries for comment Monday. Michael Kelly, one of three attorneys representing the plaintiffs, also did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday. North Kingstown Residents for Clean Air and Water registered with the Rhode Island Department of State as a nonprofit on April 23, with attorney Michael Resnick listed as its principal agent. Ferranti, a North Kingstown resident who lives 3,000 feet from the site of the proposed pyrolysis project, joined the suit as an individual plaintiff. The Rhode Island House of Representatives has already approved a resolution authorizing a 20-member joint legislative study commission on sludge treatment that will consider pyrolysis among other potential solutions. A companion resolution has been introduced, but not yet voted on, in the Rhode Island Senate. The House Committee on Corporations is also scheduled to give first vetting Tuesday afternoon to legislation sponsored by Rep. Julie Casimiro, a North Kingstown Democrat, that bans pyrolysis or thermal conversion projects in Quonset until Feb. 1, 2027 — the same date as the legislative study panel is set to conclude its work. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Rhode Island Current
	Quad Cities flight to honor law enforcement officers The Quad City Back the Blue Flight will take officers to the National Police Officers Memorial Wall and other historic sites, according to a media release.
	DeSantis orders Legislature to revisit vaccine mandates; CDC reports 134 confirmed measles cases Gov. Ron DeSantis is pushing the Legislature to support his "medical freedom" bill, which would make it easier for parents to turn down vaccines required for school entrance. (Photo by Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)As the number of confirmed measles cases in Florida increases, so does Gov. Ron DeSantis’ passion to pass legislation to make it easier for parents to turn down the required vaccines for public school students. Florida this year has seen 134 confirmed measles cases as of April 23, the fourth most in the nation, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Florida Department of Health data, meanwhile, puts the number of confirmed cases for the year as of April 17 slightly lower, at 131 confirmed cases. But DeSantis is not letting the outbreak impede his campaign for legislators to consider his “medical freedom” proposal as one of the issues they will tackle this week in a special session that starts Tuesday. The four-day session will also include congressional redistricting and a bill on artificial intelligence. The Senate Rules Committee on Tuesday will consider SB 6D, offered by Jacksonville Republican Sen. Clay Yarborough. The bill is identical to SB 1756, also sponsored by Yarborough. That bill passed the Senate during the 2026 regular session but died after never being considered in the House. DeSantis, who will be term-limited out of office in January, has said he will continue to make the issue a priority as long as he is governor. DeSantis’ resolve to pass his vaccine policies strengthens as measles cases continue to rise DeSantis’ continued push for the proposal, however, may not amount to much. In an interview with WPLG, a South Florida television station, House Speaker Daniel Perez hinted that he doesn’t support the proposal. “My concern with the vaccines is, in the middle of a measles outbreak, it’s tough for me to all of a sudden allow for children in schools to not have the measles vaccines, to not have polio, to not have chickenpox,” he told the station. No legislation addressing vaccines or so-called “medical freedom” had been filed in the House as of Monday afternoon. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Florida law contains a number of immunization requirements for the young and the old. There are vaccine mandates for school-age children, college students, and nursing home residents. Immunization for poliomyelitis, diphtheria, rubeola, rubella, pertussis, mumps, and tetanus are required for entry and attendance in Florida schools, childcare facilities, and family daycare homes. The state allows exemptions for valid medical reasons but also for religious and certain belief systems and, in some cases, allows personal exemptions for philosophical beliefs. SB 6D still would require children to be vaccinated before entering a Florida school or day care. But the legislation would expand the pathway for exemptions, allowing parents and guardians to opt out based on conscience. Ivermectin, 3 mg tablet, as sold in the USA. (Callista Images via Getty Images) The bill also would authorize ivermectin to be sold behind the counter and would prohibit lawsuits against pharmacists and pharmacies that sell the drug. Ivermectin is an effective treatment for parasites in animals and for humans to treat parasites such as head lice and scabies, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Food and Drug Administration, though, has not approved Ivermectin for treatment or prevention of COVID-19, and so far recommends against taking it for COVID-19, instead suggesting people get vaccinated for protection. But DOH secretary Joseph Ladapo and First Lady Casey DeSantis are proponents of expanding the use of ivermectin, including for cancer research. Measles and other disease outbreaks have occurred as the percentage of school-age children in Florida who are vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella dips. The target rate for MMR vaccination for herd immunity is 95%. Herd immunity, or population immunity, occurs when a large percentage of a population becomes immune, either through vaccination or prior infection. Herd immunity protects vulnerable individuals who are unable to get vaccinated. Florida’s 2024-2025 MMR vaccination rate was 88.8%. That’s a near 5% point change from the 2019-2020 year, a KFF analysis shows, and well below the targeted 95% needed for herd immunity. While the governor and Ladapo say they wanted to eliminate all vaccines mandates from Florida statues, Yarborough’s legislation falls short of that stated goal. Nevertheless, organized medicine claims the proposal still is dangerous and opposes its passage. “There are two issues. One, ivermectin is inappropriate for over-the-counter distribution or dispensing, I’m sorry,” Florida Chapter of the American College of Physicians lobbyist Christopher Nuland told the Florida Phoenix Monday. “And secondly, the expansion of the conscientious objection opt-out would decrease vaccination rates and endanger not only children who are not vaccinated, but also those children who are vaccinated.” Proposed administrative rule changes expired In addition to trying to get the Legislature to alter the state’s vaccine requirements for school attendance (private and public) the DeSantis administration announced on Sept. 9 development of new rules to govern the statutory vaccine requirements. The proposed rule changes, discussed during a pubic workshop on Dec. 12 also would have eliminated a requirement that children be vaccinated for hepatitis B, varicella (chicken pox), and haemophilus influenza B or Hib, and they also receive the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. Florida school, daycare vaccine tussle kicks off in Panama City Beach Although administrative rulemaking can take several months to accomplish, regulators must observe certain statutory requirements to keep the process moving. One of those requirements is that the state must publish the proposed rule within 180 days of announcing the rule development. That would have required the DOH to publish the proposed rule by March 9, which it did not. Courtesy of Florida Phoenix
	Rural high school students are more likely than city kids to get their diplomas, but they remain less likely to go to college Rural high school students are more likely than city kids to get their diplomas, but they remain less likely to go to collegeMany high school seniors are currently in the midst of the college application process or are already waiting to hear back from their selected schools.For high school students in rural parts of the United States, the frantic pace of the college application process can look a bit different. For starters, some of these rural students might not have large numbers of elite universities and colleges coming to admissions fairs in their areas. They might not have all of the required high school courses to attend some of these schools, either, according to Sheneka Williams, a scholar of educational leadership and rural education at Michigan State University, who graduated from a small, rural high school in Alabama.Amy Lieberman, the education editor at The Conversation U.S., spoke with Williams to understand the particular experiences of rural students — and what, exactly, it means to come from a rural background as students think about college.Lieberman: How are rural high school students’ experiences unique?Williams: Nationally, nearly 10 million students — or 1 in 5 public school students in the U.S. — attended rural schools in the fall of 2022.Research suggests that rural students finish or complete high school at a higher rate than urban students.While approximately 90% of rural high school students graduated in 2020, 82% of urban high school students got their diplomas that year.But rural students’ college entrance rate is lower than that of urban and suburban students.Within four years of graduating high school, 71% of rural students attended college, compared to 73% of suburban and 71% of city students who also went to college, according to 2023 findings by the National Center for Education Statistics.Lieberman: Why are rural students finishing high school at a higher rate than their suburban and urban peers but attending college at a lower rate?Williams: First, we know that some colleges are not really recruiting students in rural areas. If these universities don’t know you exist, and if your parents haven’t gone to college and don’t know how the admission system works, you might not have help as you move closer to attending college. Some rural schools also do not have college counselors.There are other reasons why some rural high school graduates are not going to college, I have personally seen. Some students are apprehensive about leaving home. They have close-knit families and communities, and they might be wondering where they fit in at a school in a large place that is much bigger than where they grew up.Lieberman: Do any of these scenarios describe your own educational journey?Williams: I grew up in a small town in Alabama and was different from some of the other Black students, since I came from a family of educators who had gone to college for two generations.But when I did go to college, I went to a campus that was two times the size of my hometown, which has a population of just 12,000. It takes a confident student, as well as encouragement from parents or mentors, to believe that you can go to school away from home.We had some college fairs in high school, but the visiting colleges were state universities and regional schools. You did not have selective schools coming to recruit.Students today can learn about schools online, but there is still the issue that universities are not, on their own, connecting enough with rural students.Lieberman: Do rural students fit into universities’ diversity goals?Williams: Only recently have people begun to think and talk more about what rural really means. Some people use the U.S. Census Bureau’s definition of rural, which is “all population, housing, and territory not included within an urban area.”But that’s a somewhat surface definition. It’s hard for some scholars to agree on what counts as rural, including me. It feels like something you have to experience and know, and that is hard to define. Part of the issue is that rural has been defined by what urban is not, and that makes it seem it doesn’t deserve its own definition.Universities are beginning to think about these rural students more and the particular challenges they experience in school. That includes not necessarily having stable access to high-speed internet, which approximately 22.3% of Americans in rural areas and 27.7% of Americans in tribal areas don’t have, compared to only 1.5% of Americans in urban areas.Another issue is that even for rural students who want to go to college, they might not have the right qualifications, such as certain courses they have completed.I am currently involved in research with sociologists Barbara Schneider and education scholars Joe Krajcik and Clausell Mathis about how some rural high schools in Alabama and Mississippi aren’t able to teach physics or chemistry. Physics and chemistry are both gateway courses to college, and if you want to be an engineer or STEM major, you have to complete these courses in order to have a shot at certain colleges.Rural high schools tend to have a lack of resources, in terms of both budget and their staffing. Schools not being able to find teachers who are qualified or certified in certain subject areas, such as science courses, is a nationwide problem. But this issue is tougher in smaller, rural towns.Schools will say they don’t have students interested in those subjects. But the states also aren’t requiring that these classes be offered.This lack of science course offerings can create a whole block of students who are not going to college. And if we are talking about the South, in particular, and states that have a high population of Black students in rural areas, we are talking about a whole swath of students who don’t have this education and would find it a struggle to get into larger, splashier schools that are not near home.Lieberman: What do you think are some of the solutions to these challenges?Williams: There are many local efforts to offer tutoring and things of that nature for rural high school students. Some of those efforts have been blunted because schools are funded by property taxes, and some of them just don’t have the revenue to pay for these add-ons without federal support.I think colleges need to do a better job of recruiting students at rural high schools. I also think that once these students make it to college, it would help if there were support or affinity groups.Some colleges have not thought enough about rural students. I think the narrative around rural students and college needs to shift – these students may want to go to college, but nobody is looking for them. When you live in small, geographically isolated places, sometimes you only know what you see.This story was produced by The Conversation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The 46% ready for commitment: What the data really says about what singles want in 2026 The 46% ready for commitment: What the data really says about what singles want in 2026If social media and new outlets are to be believed, many Americans have given up on dating. From hookup culture to dating app fatigue, it seems more and more that “situationships” are the norm.However, survey data points to something else entirely. Spokeo broke down the statistics from leading sources, including the Kinsey Institute, PR Newswire, Fortune, Coffee Meets Bagel, Nerd Wallet, and more, to show just how ready many Americans are for a long-term relationship. Not eventually, but now.The data shows that modern singles aren't taking a romantic retreat and they’re hopeful for light at the end of the tunnel.The ‘relationship reset’: What singles actually prioritizeThe clearest theme across all data is intentionality. Based on the 14th Annual Singles in America Study by Match and the Kinsey Institute, which surveyed 5,001 singles, 46% of people claim they are ready now for a long-term relationship.In January 2026, the dating app Coffee Meets Bagel published its 2025 Dating Realness Report, which also outlined some interesting facts that aligned with the Match and Kinsey Institute data. In a survey in partnership with YouGov of over 1,000 working professionals aged 21 to 35, at least 9 in 10 (92%) daters indicated they were seeking either marriage or a long-term partner. Of that group, 3 in 5 (61%) specifically mentioned seeking a spouse.However, more than 9 in 10 (93%) of those same participants said that dating was difficult, with over half mentioning that commitment to a relationship was harder than asking for a raise at work. Aspiration among younger daters is clearly high, but the problem lies in execution.Corroborating data from the Institute for Family Studies’ 2026 State of Our Unions report offers further insight. This survey, drawn from a nationally representative sample of nearly 5,300 unmarried adults aged 22 to 35, found that only 30% of young adults were actively dating. Active was defined as going on dates at least once a month. The gap between wanting a relationship and actively pursuing one has never been more real or wider.Importantly, this divide over actually committing to a relationship isn’t driven by fear. The State of Our Unions report shows that most young adults indicated that a lack of confidence and the skills required to navigate dating effectively led to disinterest in actually going on dates. In 2026, singles know the destination they’re seeking, but they’re not sure how to actually read the map to achieve their goals.What differs by gender and generationAcross multiple studies, men and women report wanting the same things: commitment, emotional connection, and a real relationship. Spokeo Despite wanting the same things, young daters are still going on fewer dates. In November 2025, Hinge, another popular dating app, published its 2025 Gen Z D.A.T.E. Report and noted 42% of heterosexual Gen Z women who use Hinge believe the men they date don’t want to have deep conversations from the get-go. Yet, 65% of heterosexual Gen Z men say they actually do want those conversations.Something is clearly lost in translation, but the cause may lie in a telling statistic: an additional 48% of Gen Z men indicated they hold back from emotional intimacy early on because they’re afraid of coming across too strongly. The result? A lot of dates where nobody says what they actually want to say, leading to burnout that stops those people from going on more dates.It’s not just Gen Z, though. Generational differences also emerge in modern dating. According to BMO’s 2026 Real Financial Progress Index, millennials are spending an average of $252 per date. This is a 32% jump from just 2025. At a national level, the average amount spent per date is at $189, which is up 12.5% year over year. This represents an annualized spend of $2,323 for dating during the entire year at just an average of 12 dates, which is down from an average of 14 in 2024.This spending figure outpaces general inflation, meaning people are spending more than they likely should while going on fewer dates to try to succeed.The real deal-breakers in modern datingA 2026 dating survey run by NerdWallet found that being dishonest about finances was the top dealbreaker for 54% of those polled, with asking for money as the runner-up. Just 17% said that carrying any amount of credit card debt would end things. It’s not the debt itself that’s a dealbreaker for modern daters; it's the lack of communication and transparency that is problematic.Additional BMO data supports this. As cited by 94% of respondents in a survey, the most attractive financial trait in a partner was financial responsibility, rather than having a large sum of money. Financial transparency came in just behind at 89%. Being dishonest about where you stand is the clearest dealbreaker for modern daters, with the underlying problem of poor communication rearing its head again.Addressing the communication gap and vulnerability shiftCommunication issues are ultimately leading fewer people to go on dates. It’s clear something must be done.The desire among daters to build deep emotional connections is almost universal, but the execution needs work. In the Hinge 2025 Gen Z D.A.T.E. Report, this issue is dubbed the “communication gap.”More than half of daters polled indicated they’ve felt shame or second-guessed themselves after being emotionally vulnerable with someone, yet only 19% say they felt uncomfortable when someone opened up. Modern daters are afraid to be vulnerable, but it’s almost universally safe to do so. Gen Z is more hesitant than millennials to initiate deep conversations, by about 36%, but that hesitation still comes with a strong desire to have those conversations.Modern daters don't dislike depth. Rather, they’re waiting for permission and a sign that it’s safe to open up. Someone has to go first. Addressing this issue requires having the courage to simply speak up, make your feelings known, and take a leap of faith.The future of dating in 2026Today’s daters aren’t afraid of relationships but lack the practical skills to build them. This is a solvable problem.When all the noise around hookup culture and dating app exhaustion is stripped away, the data centers around a few main points. Most singles want commitment, find dating hard, and want to learn to navigate a real tension between desiring emotional depth and initiating it.The 46% who say they’re ready for a long-term relationship aren’t outliers; they're more likely representative of a much larger group who want the same thing and are still figuring out how to ask for it.This story was produced by Spokeo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Inside AI traffic’s 796% growth, and why it converts more ready-to-buy visitors Inside AI traffic’s 796% growth, and why it converts more ready-to-buy visitorsAI-referred visitors aren’t just increasing. They’re more likely to convert.In an analysis of 2.3 billion sessions (January 2024 to December 2025):Traffic from generative AI grew 796% in two years.AI visitors converted approximately 1.2 times higher than organic search and at a higher rate than any other “free” channel.Organic and direct still dominate (63% of sessions), while AI accounts for 0.18%.What this means for marketers:AI is changing when users arrive and how ready they are to act.Visitors from generative AI often come after researching options, comparing vendors, and narrowing their choices. This suggests they are more likely to take action when they land on a site.At the same time, traditional channels like organic search and direct still drive the majority of early discovery.WebFX breaks down the data.Note: This report was updated in March 2026 to reflect expanded data from January 2024 through December 2025. Earlier versions of this study (January 2024–February 2025) reported that generative AI traffic grew 165 times faster than organic search. The updated analysis extends the dataset and timeframe.Generative AI has become a strategic traffic channel WebFX By 2025, generative AI traffic was no longer behaving like a one-time spike. Generative AI grew approximately 796% from January 2024 to December 2025.The quarterly growth pattern also shows how the channel evolved, explaining why it now deserves strategic attention. Growth in 2025 unfolded in three distinct phases: early adoption, acceleration, and maturation.Phase 1: Early adoption (January to April 2025). YoY growth ranged from 1,101% to 1,835%, driven by early adopters integrating generative AI platforms into research behavior alongside traditional search.Phase 2: Acceleration (May to July 2025). May reached a peak of 3,431% YoY, followed by elevated growth through July. This period reflects broader adoption and increased frequency of AI-assisted research.Phase 3: Maturation (August to December 2025). Growth moderated into the 260%–889% range. Session volume remained elevated, while the rate of increase stabilized into a more consistent pattern.These numbers indicate the channel is maturing and stabilizing.Traffic share remains small, but strategically meaningfulIn 2025, generative AI accounted for 0.18% of total sessions. The share remains modest, yet its sustained growth and measurable conversion activity elevate its strategic relevance. WebFX Organic Search still remains a primary traffic channel, though, holding the second-highest market share at 27.12% and trailing only Direct. Together, the two make up more than 60% of website traffic.Traffic distribution across channels changed measurably in 2025, reflecting users’ evolving search and discovery behavior. When taken together, the quarterly growth pattern and traffic-share data show that generative AI is no longer an experimental referral traffic source. It is measurable, sustained, and tied to revenue activity.Takeaways for marketers: Manage generative AI as a defined traffic channelGenerative AI should now be tracked, benchmarked, and forecasted like any other revenue channel.Here’s what marketers should do.Track AI referrals separatelyIn GA4, create a dedicated channel grouping or source filter for traffic from generative AI platforms so it does not merge into generic referral buckets. Doing so lets you accurately examine quarterly trends.Monitor channel share alongside volumeTrack AI’s percentage of total sessions alongside raw session growth to understand how your acquisition mix is changing. Monitoring traffic share tells you whether AI is becoming an important contributor to your pipeline or simply expanding from a small base.Evaluate quality with scaleSession growth alone doesn’t tell you how important a channel is. Review conversion events per user and assisted conversion paths to measure generative AI’s revenue influence.If AI-assisted sessions are high-quality, which means they lead to conversion actions, it may justify deeper content optimization or increased efforts to improve your visibility. If traffic quality is inconsistent, you may need to adjust your targeting or landing pages.AI visitors are buyers, not browsersFrom 2024 to 2025, sessions from generative AI platforms increased 796% YoY, while conversions increased by 6,432% YoY.When conversions grow faster than sessions, it means a larger share of visitors are turning into leads, customers, or taking other meaningful actions. Generative AI traffic is not only expanding its reach but also improving conversion efficiency.Across industries, users referred by generative AI consistently converted at higher rates than organic search throughout 2025. Industries like SaaS and Retail saw AI referrals convert at more than 50%, while organic search conversions were between 20% and 30%. WebFX AI traffic had fewer sessions per user than organic search in both 2024 and 2025. In 2025, AI visitors averaged 1.14 sessions per user compared to 1.18 for organic search.This pattern suggests less back-and-forth exploration. Many AI-referred visitors have already begun evaluating options elsewhere:Inside AI platformsReview sitesIndustry publicationsCommunity forumsWhen these users reach a company website, they’re confirming pricing, specifications, credibility, or contact information. WebFX Generative AI traffic combines conversion efficiency with rapid growthGenerative AI delivered 0.79 tracked interactions per user. In practical terms, that’s roughly eight tracked interactions for every 10 visitors arriving from AI platforms.For context, organic search generated approximately 12 tracked interactions per 10 visitors.High-intent channels such as Affiliates and Paid Search generated even more interactions per visitor, which implies that visitors coming from these channels are in the earlier stages of their research.Generative AI outperformed Direct, Organic Social, Referral, Paid Social, and Display in terms of tracked interactions per visitor. This places the generative AI channel in the middle tier of conversion efficiency — competitive but not the most efficient or highest-converting.On its own, midtier efficiency is not unusual. What distinguishes generative AI is the combination of:Approximately eight interactions per 10 visitors796% YoY session growthNo direct media spendNo other unpaid channel grew this quickly while still driving meaningful conversion activity. This combination reflects a growing share of visitors arriving through AI platforms with meaningful conversion activity.What marketers should do: Treat AI as a high-intent channelGenerative AI functions as a prequalification tool for prospects. For this reason, AI traffic behaves more like bottom-of-funnel traffic than early-stage discovery.The data suggests several shifts in digital strategy.AI as a decision-stage channelVisitors arriving from AI platforms are often validating options rather than beginning research. Landing pages that clearly present key information—such as pricing, specifications, comparisons, and proof points—align with the verification behavior of these visitors.AI-driven visitors are more likely to convert when information is immediate and structured.Shifts in performance measurementAI visitors averaged fewer sessions per user than organic search in both 2024 and 2025, yet generated several interactions with visitors. If you measure performance primarily on session depth or repeat visits, AI traffic may appear weaker than it is.Benchmarking AI performance against high-intent channels rather than informational organic queries provides more accurate context.Changes to reporting and attribution modelsWith 796% YoY session growth and meaningful interactions per user, AI is no longer experimental traffic. Tracking it as a defined channel in dashboards, revenue reporting, and forecasting models provides better visibility.Tracking referral sources from AI platforms separately will prevent their impact from being absorbed into “referral” or “other” categories.Content alignment with confirmation behaviorAI-driven visitors frequently arrive to confirm pricing, review technical details, or assess credibility. Landing pages that provide clear pricing and technical information, boost brand credibility with proof points, and guide visitors to next steps align with this behavior.As AI visibility increases, the ability to appear in AI-generated responses directly influences which brands receive this decision-stage traffic.AI compresses research and changes how users engage on-siteGenerative AI accounted for just 0.18% of traffic in 2025. While small, it’s unique: What sets it apart from other traffic sources is how AI-referred visitors behave when they land on a business’s website.In 2025, generative AI recorded a 66.48% engagement rate and a 54.15% session conversion rate. Organic search, by comparison, recorded a 70.86% engagement rate with a 45.23% session conversion rate during the same period.Their difference shows up in how concentrated the visitors’ intent appears to be. WebFX Organic-driven sessions include a variety of intents. Visitors land on a brand website to conduct early research, casual browsing, comparison shopping, fill out a form, or make a purchase.On the other hand, generative AI sessions are more likely to include a measurable action. That’s why its session conversion rate is high (54.15%).In practical terms, a higher percentage of AI-referred visits result in form submissions, resource downloads, quote requests, or other conversion events within the same session.For marketers, that suggests something important: AI-referred users may have done some research before they click through your site. By the time they land on your site through an AI-assisted search, they’ve already learned so much about their options and are not starting from scratch.This trend affects how you design high-intent experiences for AI-assisted visits.Action: Optimize for decisive visitors across channelsWhile generative AI traffic accounts for only a small fraction today, the behaviors seen — higher session-level conversion activity — also apply to other high-intent visitors, whether they arrive via organic search, paid search, or direct.The objective is to optimize websites so that when visitors arrive ready to act, the process is streamlined.Making the next steps obvious and simpleWhen someone lands on a product or service page, the next steps should be immediately clear. High-conversion pages often share several characteristicsReasonable form lengthsNonredundant form fieldsStrategically placed calls to action (CTAs)Adjusting messaging for returning visitorsNot every high-intent visitor converts on the first visit. Some return to confirm or compare pricing, so some organizations personalize content for returning visitors instead of repeating introductory messaging.If someone has already viewed technical specifications, they likely don’t need a brand overview. Messaging can be adjusted by adding excerpts from case studies to provide reassurance.Small personalization changes can support that momentum without requiring a full redesign.Reinforcing credibility during the decision-making processHigh-intent visitors — including AI-referred users — often concentrate on decision pages. Product, pricing, and demo pages often display social proof such as:TestimonialsIndustry certificationsClear deliverablesChatGPT dominates generative AI discoveryFrom 2024 to 2025, ChatGPT accounted for 82.6% of all generative AI traffic. The next-closest platforms — including Perplexity and Google Gemini — accounted for much smaller shares.When combined, the top three AI platforms generated 96.9% of all AI-driven visits. In other words, AI discovery is not spread across dozens of tools. Instead, most AI discovery happens on just a few platforms.This concentration suggests that optimization principles remain consistent across the landscape, requiring authoritative content, clear explanations, structured information, and credible sources. While ChatGPT currently represents the largest share of AI answers, other platforms continue to play specific roles.That doesn’t mean other platforms are irrelevant. Perplexity continues to serve research-heavy queries, and emerging assistants from Google and Microsoft are still evolving. WebFX Pro tip for marketers: Maintain platform-agnostic optimizationAlthough traffic is concentrated, the foundations of AI visibility are largely universal.AI platforms tend to reference authoritative content, such as original research, expert explanations, and clear answers to specific questions. Well-structured pages also assist crawlers in finding, extracting, and citing information. This suggests that building content robust enough for any AI system to rely on is more effective than creating tool-specific content.Monitor emerging platforms without overinvestingPerplexity, Gemini, and Copilot still contribute smaller shares of traffic today. As generative AI evolves as a channel, the distribution of traffic may change.AI adoption accelerated across B2B industriesGenerative AI traffic growth in 2025 was not confined to SaaS or technology companies. Adoption accelerated across research-intensive B2B sectors.In this dataset, Manufacturing, Professional Services, and SaaS accounted for roughly 35% of generative AI traffic in 2025. These industries often require buyers to carefully compare options, validate capabilities, and align stakeholders before inquiring. WebFX Manufacturing and Heavy Equipment showed sustained acceleration into late 2025, while Professional Services experienced an early-2025 surge followed by stabilization. As quarterly growth stabilized overall, these industries continued to see sustained increases in AI-referred sessions, showing us that technical buyers are incorporating AI tools into procurement workflows.Home Services followed a different trajectory. AI traffic in this category moved from negligible volume in early 2024 to steady, conversion-producing streams by late 2025.While total session share remained modest in Home Services, AI-assisted visits showed conversion activities, suggesting that AI platforms power vendor discovery and assist with initial outreach. Total session share in the SaaS and Software industry also appears small compared to other industries and is likely due to larger datasets coming from other B2B sectors.B2B buyers are shortlisting vendors before they visit your websiteB2B buyers increasingly use AI platforms to compare vendors, review specifications, and narrow options before visiting company websites. By the time they visit your website, they are confirming details, not starting their research.If your specifications, service descriptions, or case studies are not surfaced in AI-assisted research, buyers may never discover or consider your business. That makes visibility during their early comparison critical — vendors mentioned at this stage have a chance of getting evaluated.Strategies for B2B visibility in AI-assisted researchB2B buyers use AI platforms to gather, compare, and shortlist options before visiting vendors’ websites and inquiring. To get their attention at this stage, you must have structured, authoritative content.Publish comparison-ready documentationMake product specifications, service packages, compliance details, and pricing models easy to find and easy to interpret.Front-load key information at the top of your pages. In addition, ensure product specs and key details are consistent across pages so buyers and crawlers can easily find and understand them.Use structured data to reduce ambiguityStructured data (or schema markup) won’t guarantee citations, but it helps crawlers extract and summarize your content accurately. For many B2B organizations, useful schema markups include:Organization (brand identity signals)Product or Service (offer details)Offer (pricing and packaging structure when applicable)FAQPage (common validation questions)BreadcrumbList (site structure)Use the types that match what you actually publish to make important details clear.Use consistent naming so you can be cited correctlyKeep product names, categories, and terminology consistent across pages. Doing so increases the likelihood that AI-generated summaries will reflect your correct offerings and details.Earn trust with expert-backed, proof-focused contentB2B buyers look for credibility signals, while AI-powered searches look for statements that they can reference. When applicable, incorporate insights from subject-matter experts, case studies, and data-backed comparisons into your content.For example, a manufacturing supplier can publish an engineer-reviewed specification table comparing material tolerances, performance metrics, and compliance standards across product lines, along with a case study.By providing specific, technical details, you’re improving both buyer trust and AI interpretability.Audit how your brand appears in AI answersRegularly check how your B2B business appears for high-intent queries on major AI platforms. AI visibility tools can help monitor and analyze a brand's presence on ChatGPT and other major AI search experiences.How to optimize for AI visibility in 2026Generative AI has not replaced traditional traffic channels, with direct and organic search still dominating with 35.51% and 27.12% of total sessions, respectively, in 2025. However, generative AI platforms are increasingly influencing how online users evaluate vendors and make purchase decisions.This shift suggests there are different ways for audiences to discover brands and services. Appearing in traditional search results remains essential, but being mentioned in AI-generated answers is critical to getting noticed and shortlisted.Here’s how.1. Prioritize traffic quality along with volumeAs earlier sections showed, the AI-referred visitors often arrive at websites ready to take action. Instead of focusing only on session growth, monitoring the quality of traffic arriving from different channels with metrics such as:Conversion events per userAssisted conversionsEngagement patternsThese metrics reveal which channels drive revenue, helping you identify the optimization efforts to prioritize.2. Track generative AI visibility as a distinct channelCreating a separate reporting view for generative AI traffic in analytics platforms makes it easier to evaluate their influence. As AI platforms become a measurable source of discovery, isolating that traffic makes it easier to evaluate their influence.Monitoring referral sources from major AI tools and comparing how those visits behave compared to other channels can reveal which pages, resources, and topics are most frequently surfaced in AI-generated responses.Over time, this analysis can reveal which pages, resources, and topics are most frequently surfaced in AI-generated responses.3. Align SEO and GEO through a “double-dip” strategyRather than treating generative engine optimization (GEO) as a separate initiative, it can be integrated with existing SEO strategies.Search engines still capture a large share of discovery traffic, while AI platforms increasingly shape how buyers validate their options during evaluation. Having a strong content strategy can support both your SEO and GEO efforts.A strong content strategy can support both. As research expands beyond traditional search, brands that get cited are those that consistently provide helpful answers backed by first-party data and experience across discovery channels.SEO-focused content helps brands appear during early research. The same pages — when structured clearly and supported with credible information — can become sources that AI systems can cite when users ask deeper questions.This “double-dip” approach allows a single piece of content to contribute to both discovery and decision stages of the buyer journey.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Scholarship opportunity for Moline seniors pursuing service field careers The Moline Police Department and Moline Police Benevolent Association are providing a scholarship for local high school seniors.
	6 money milestones you should hit in your 20s 6 money milestones you should hit in your 20sThe clock is ticking in your 20s. CreditNinja shares six financial goals that truly matter to set yourself up for financial success by the time you’re 30. Skip one of these and you could add 10 years to your working life.Key TakeawaysMoney milestones you must hit in your 20s include aggressively paying down high-interest debt, building strong credit, and avoiding lifestyle choices that delay long-term financial stability.Eliminating credit cards, student loans, and unnecessary car debt early frees up cash flow, protects your credit score, and prevents interest from adding years to your working life.Finding and committing to a career path you can grow in increases earning potential over time and makes it easier to save, invest, and stay consistent financially.Budgeting, building three to six months of emergency savings, investing for retirement early, and preparing for major purchases like a home create compound advantages that carry into your 30s and beyond.Money Milestone #1: Pay Off as Much Debt as PossibleYour 20s are when you have the opportunity to either build up your financial future or ruin it. So, the first milestone to hit is to pay off as much debt as possible. And if you can pay all of it off, even better.This decade is for paying off stuff like your credit card debt, student loan debt, and car loan debt if you have some, instead of taking on more. CreditNinja In 2024, the average credit card debt for Gen Z was about $3,500, while millennials had nearly double that, according to Experian data. So, if you can shrink your debt in your 20s, then you’re already getting ahead compared to others. Only 35% of consumers between 18 and 34 have paid off their credit cards in full.If you aren’t paying your credit card debt in full, then you’re likely to fall into two categories:You can afford to pay it off, but you just aren’t.You can’t afford it at all.And if you’re in the first category, then you’re making a big mistake. Why? Interest will eat you alive, especially when average credit card interest rates are around 26%. Now, if you’re in category two, it pays to learn how to pay off credit card debt fast.The biggest form of debt that you’ll likely have in your 20s is going to be your student loan debt. Studies have shown that the average student loan borrower will pay $26,000 in interest alone over the life of their loan. It varies state-to-state, but the average student loan debt for Americans under 30 is $23,795. But what really matters is how much money you’re making compared to how much money you owe. This is important now more than ever because a TransUnion analysis found that, as of April 2025, 1 in 3 student loan borrowers were over 90 days past due, and this is at an all-time high. But it’s important that you have a realistic plan.Some experts suggest that your monthly payment should be at least 8% to 10% of your annual salary. So if you’re coming out of school and making $30,000 a year, then your payment should be around $300, while $60,000-a-year earners would pay more like $600. If 10% doesn’t feel manageable, then you’re probably paying either too much for other things, like your car or where you live.This leads to the next two big forms of debt that you have to pay off. In your 20s, you don’t need a fancy car. Because here’s the thing, the value only goes down the moment you drive it off the lot. Since you need to focus on paying off debt, every dollar that goes into that car is keeping you in more debt. So, unless you’re very comfortable financially, chances are that you’re looking at used cars here.Experts recommend keeping your car payment under 10% of your monthly take-home pay and avoiding loans that are longer than five years. So, take 10% of your salary and then multiply it by 60 monthly payments. And that should be close to what you’re looking at for your total car cost. In your 20s, you’ll also likely be renting. Your rent should not be more than 30% of your gross income, which is the money that you make before taxes.So, let’s say you make $60,000 a year. That’s $5,000 a month in gross income, which means that your apartment should be no more than $1,700. Again, this isn’t a firm rule, and it’s only a small piece of your financial puzzle.Another reason why it is so important to pay off your debt early is that it will ultimately help you build up your credit score. A 2025 Ally study analyzing FICO data found that the average credit score for someone in their 20s is around 680 to 700, which is considered good. But as you get older, you’ll want to get into the high 700s as soon as possible to get the best rates possible. With a higher credit score, you can get approved for better loans that could save you tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars in your lifetime.And speaking of renting, some people can actually skip that first and last month’s deposit that most landlords require as a down payment if you have a higher credit score.A key factor in your credit score is making payments on time. Just missing one of these payments for either your loan or your credit card could hurt your credit score for over seven years.Money Milestone #2: Find Your CareerYou can’t pay off any of these forms of debt without income, right? Which leads to financial milestone number two, finding your career. This doesn’t just mean finding a job in your 20s. Finding a career field that challenges you, that you can also grow in, and that you actually enjoy will help you make even more money.The more experienced you are in your career, the higher your earnings potential. Work is always going to feel like work at some point. So, it’s important to build experience in something that you don’t hate and maybe even enjoy. When you’re in your early 20s, you may not know what you want, but this is the best time to test out different industries. When you’re fresh out of school and you’re trying to build your skill set, it might prove more practical not to be too picky when finding a job. The job market is incredibly competitive thanks to AI and remote work, which means that you aren’t just competing locally for jobs, but you’re competing for one role with many people from around the country or around the globe.But regardless of the job market, settling on your career sooner can increase your earnings potential. Job-hopping is okay as long as you’re making more money each year. Remember, your 20s aren’t the time to settle, but a time to experiment and find a career that you’ll find fulfillment in. But keep in mind that switching careers can mean you’re essentially starting from scratch. If you are on the verge of getting a six-figure job in your current industry, it could be five to 10 years before you get another one that pays that well.Money Milestones #3 and #4: Build a Budget and a SavingsAnd now, once you start making money, you need to work on milestones three and four: building a budget and growing savings. CreditNinja It’s a challenging environment right now. Only 46% of U.S. adults have enough emergency savings to cover the next three months of their expenses, according to Bank Rates’s 2025 emergency savings report. And only 31% of Gen Z-ers say that they even have enough savings to cover an unexpected $1,000 expense compared to 43% of millennials. For people under 35, the latest research shows that the median amount of money in savings and checking accounts is $5,400.To make more money to save, aim for promotions and raises, job-hop for a higher salary, or start a side hustle.Exactly how much money do you need in your savings before you can start feeling comfortable? Is it $5,000, $10,000, or more? The general rule of thumb here is that you should have about three to six months’ worth of expenses in your savings and checking accounts to cover any emergencies that you might have (let’s say you lose your job, have a medical emergency). This way, you’re covered while you search for another one or at least build back up anew. And the only way that you’ll know this number is by budgeting, knowing how much you have to spend and how much money you have left over each month.If you have less than $5,000 in your bank account, you can still build a solid financial foundation.Money Milestone #5: Invest for RetirementOnce you get your emergency fund settled, some people actually prefer to be light on cash in their savings and checking accounts because they would rather invest, which brings up the fifth financial milestone: investing for retirement. You may not even be thinking about getting old and retiring, but for Americans under 35, NerdWallet says the average amount saved in their retirement account is just under $50,000, while the median is just under 20,000. Believe it or not, right now is the time when retirement investing is so important because it’s going to have the biggest impact. Why? Two words: compound interest. That’s why you should try to start investing now, even if it’s in really small amounts at times.Let’s compare two scenarios here, where you start investing when you’re 20 versus when you start investing at 30. In the first scenario, let’s say you started investing $100 every month at 20 until you hit the age of retirement at 65. At retirement, you’d have $463,000. But if you waited to start investing at the age of 30, you would only have around $200,000. That means that in the first scenario, you would have made an extra quarter-million just by investing 10 years earlier, and it would have only cost $12,000 more.In both scenarios, you can see that the growth doesn’t add up that fast. But later on in life, the savings go ballistic. So the sooner that you can start investing, the sooner you can benefit from compound interest.The two most common ways to contribute to your retirement are going to be auto-deducting that directly from your paycheck into your account. Or if you take whatever leftover money that you might have from your cash flow and savings, and then just manually contribute it there. But now, if you have an employee 401(k) then they might offer what’s called an employer match. They’ll actually match some of that salary that you put into retirement up to a certain amount. So if you put in, let’s say, $200 from your paycheck towards retirement, your job might put in $150. It’s basically free money. But regardless of whether your job sponsors a retirement account, you should open up a Roth IRA where your money can grow tax-free for the rest of your life. Even without that 401(k) match from those former employers, you can still have a Roth IRA to contribute to monthly.Money Milestone #6: Prepare for Big PurchasesThe sixth milestone for your 20s is to prepare for the inevitable big purchases coming in your 30s, or earlier if you play your cards right.Now, no one can predict what’s going to happen in the housing market with prices either rising or falling. But no matter what, you need to start preparing as if this is something you want to do. If you’re in your early 20s and you want to buy a house, you have an advantage because you have more time to prepare for rising housing costs. People could never have expected the years of COVID-19 and what that did to the housing market. Home prices spiked massively in such a short amount of time and it left many people unable to afford a home. But you have a lot more time to prepare if you are in your 20s to start investing now, so that you can enjoy later.The first step to owning a home is getting a good or great credit score. As discussed earlier, right now the median home price is $415,000. So if you can lower our interest rate by even just a half-percent, you could save tens of thousands of dollars. Building credit is adulting.Regardless of how much money you make or how expensive that house is, the fact is that your down payment will probably be in the five to six figures. So, if you can start saving even just a little bit every month in a high-interest savings account, you will be well on your way to affording that home when it comes to making that down payment.This story was produced by CreditNinja and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	4 surprising personal benefits of tackling debt 4 surprising personal benefits of tackling debtIf you’ve ever felt your shoulders tighten just thinking about bills, you’re not alone. Money touches almost everything — our sleep, our appetite, our relationships, even how hopeful we feel about the future.But many people don’t talk about the opportunity cost of debt — that is to say, that when you put your energy towards paying back debt, you have less to spend on the things that actually matter to you.That truth is hard, but it’s helpful: To start making your goals a reality, the first thing you need to do is to free up your finances from the leak of high-interest debts.Beyond Finance looks at four ways that tackling debt can impact your well-being, emotionally, physically, and, of course, financially.1. Immediate Physical and Mental ReliefThe moment you create a structured debt plan, your body begins to relax and that means:Better sleep: With fewer open questions, your mind can actually rest — and not fixate on when you think your next payment is due.Less stress: Stress eating, skipped meals or chaotic food habits often settle as your nervous system calms. You may find it easier (and more enticing) to plan meals to cook at home, now that you have a structured approach to your debt.Mental clarity: When you’re not constantly bracing for the next bill, you suddenly have more mental space — for work, for family and for yourself.2. Expanded Emotional BandwidthDebt stress is a powerful distraction, but paying down debt frees up more than just your bank account — it clears up your headspace. As financial fear dissipates, you gain the emotional energy you need to reconnect with friends and family.Instead of being "checked out" by stress, you can finally be present in your own life.3. Financial Bandwidth for Your GoalsMany people don’t talk about the opportunity cost of debt. When your energy (and cash) goes toward interest, you have less to spend on the things that actually matter to you.As you tackle your debt, you’ll have more money available for the goals that have been on hold like a down payment, upcoming move or travel. Redirecting that "extra" money toward a future you’re excited about not only builds confidence but also hope for the future.4. A Surge in Personal Confidence and MomentumSeeing momentum with debt proves you can tackle big challenges. That confidence often carries over to health, career and family goals. Momentum is a powerful thing; when your financial well-being improves, it becomes easier to continue making good choices.You might find you are less tempted to splurge on impulse purchases because you now have a better sense of what your money and your time are worth. Early wins like more energy and a hopeful outlook aren't just perks; they are the fuel that helps you stay on track for the long haul.Tackling Debt Opens the Door to Bigger Life GoalsOnce your stress levels lower, something powerful happens: Your long-term goals start feeling possible again. And when you start making progress on your debt, other opportunities open themselves up, too.This story was produced by Beyond Finance and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	It’s an $800K Green Card fast lane, but is it closing? It’s an $800K Green Card fast lane, but is it closing?For Indian nationals hoping to build a life in the U.S., the wait for an employment-based Green Card can stretch a decade or more. That’s left hundreds of thousands of engineers, doctors, and researchers stuck in line.Many of them are giving back to their communities, and in doing so opening up a faster path to a Green Card through a category called the EB-5. The price tag is steep—it can cost at least $800,000. But as this article from Manifest Law explains, it may be better than waiting for those who can afford it.The EB-5 visa program has been around since 1990. Here’s the concept: Invest a set amount of money in a U.S. business that creates American jobs, and earn a Green Card.The standard minimum is $1,050,000, but in rural areas or high-unemployment communities, that drops to $800,000. Most investors participate through regional centers. These are pooled investment funds that channel money into qualifying projects like real estate or infrastructure, rather than requiring each investor to start a business from scratch.Key takeawaysIndian professionals already living in the U.S. are using the EB-5 investor visa to get a Green Card without waiting in the employment-based backlog.More than half of Indian EB-5 recipients in fiscal year 2024 got their Green Card without leaving the U.S.The State Department’s May 2026 Visa Bulletin warns that the line for EB-5 visas may slow down or close before September.What changed with the EB-5 program in 2022In March 2022, Congress passed a $1.5 trillion spending bill. Buried inside it was a rewrite of the EB-5 program. It had been dormant for nine months, was used almost exclusively by wealthy Chinese investors, and needed stronger guardrails against fraud risk.The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act made three changes:It set aside reserved visas for investments in rural areas (20%), high-unemployment urban areas (10%), and infrastructure projects (2%).It allowed investors already living in the U.S. to apply for a Green Card and an immigrant investor petition at the same time, rather than waiting for one to be approved first.It reauthorized the program through Sept. 30, 2027.So aside from offering a faster path to a Green Card, the reserved tracks direct capital into places that often struggle to attract it. To qualify for these tracks, an investor’s money has to fund a project in a community that meets a specific criteria: areas outside major cities, or neighborhoods where unemployment runs well above the national average. That means real estate development, manufacturing, or infrastructure projects in places that might not see that investment otherwise.Why Indian nationals face a 10-year Green Card waitThe U.S. gives out a limited number of employment-based Green Cards each year. It also caps how many can go to any single country.Demand for Green Cards from Indian nationals far exceeds what the cap allows. At the end of fiscal year 2025, 481,857 approved Indian employment-based petitions were sitting in a queue. These are cases where the government has already said yes, but people are still waiting for a visa number. Many applicants face waits of 10 years or more.In response, some Indian nationals are taking out their checkbooks.“For many clients, especially those already in the U.S., it’s about control and certainty,” said Patrick Duckett, an immigration lawyer co-counsel to Manifest Law who has worked on EB-5 cases for a decade. “They’re moving away from employer-sponsored dependency toward a self-directed immigration path.”Indian EB-5 filings have grown 160% in two yearsRegional center investor filings (the application that starts the EB-5 process) grew from 2,431 in fiscal year 2023 to 4,567 in 2024 to 6,307 in 2025. That’s 160% growth in two years, for a Green Card that requires a sum of at least $800,000.The more revealing data is who’s filing: Manifest Law For China and Vietnam, the two biggest recipients of EB-5, the visa is mostly doing what it’s designed to do: moving foreign capital into the United States. For India, something different is happening.More than half of Indian EB-5 recipients in fiscal year 2024 were already living in the U.S. when they got their Green Card. Instead of investing their way in, they invested their way out of other visa paths.“A significant portion of Indian EB-5 investors are already in the U.S. and many are using EB-5 as a way to break out of the long employment-based visa backlogs,” Duckett said. “The ability to concurrently file adjustment of status under the Reform Act has been a major driver. It gives them work authorization and travel flexibility relatively quickly, which is a huge advantage.”Will the EB-5 Reserved visa categories run out before September 2026?The EB-5 has two lanes: a general pool open to everyone, and reserved tracks for investments in rural and high-unemployment areas. The general lane already has a wait for China and India. The reserved lanes are current, meaning that applicants in these categories can file their petition and apply for their Green Card as soon as they’re ready.The table below shows where things stand in the latest Visa Bulletin, which is issued every month with updated timelines.EB-5 Final Action Dates: May 2026 Manifest Law The State Department included a warning in this bulletin: Demand from India “may make it necessary to retrogress the final action date or make the category unavailable” before the fiscal year ends. In other words, so many people are using the unreserved EB-5 lane that the government may have to slow it down or shut it off before September, something that happened last year too.In addition, the EB-5 program will expire on Sept. 30, 2027, if Congress declines to fund it ahead of that date. It has lapsed before, back in 2021.“I’m advising clients not to wait,” Duckett said. “If you file before the program sunsets, you’re generally protected even if there’s a lapse later. But that protection only applies once you’re in the system.”This story was produced by Manifest Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	U.S. senator from Kansas points to risk of alienating NATO military alliance members U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, argues the United States shouldn't take for granted commitments of NATO countries to defend against military aggression in Europe and discourages directing criticism at alliance countries reluctant to directly take part in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran. He is seen here at a July 14, 2025, news conference in De Soto. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)TOPEKA — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas is pushing back against criticism of the NATO alliance as member nations in Europe take on responsibility for sustaining Ukraine’s fight against Russia and “quietly” assist the United States and Israel in the war against Iran. Moran, a Republican who has represented Kansas in the U.S. Senate or U.S. House for nearly 30 years, said the conflict with Iran had significant impact on the United States and members of the 32-nation transatlantic military alliance. Since the United States launched military strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, there have been consequences in terms of elevated gas prices, heightened security threats and disrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz. “Renewed criticism of the alliance fails to recognize that it is defensive in nature and risks further alienating partners who are essential to an America first policy,” he said. President Donald Trump denounced NATO as a “paper tiger” for not directly engaging in the war against Iran and not backing an effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz. The president said he was contemplating “absolutely without question” withdrawing the United States from NATO. Moran said NATO members last year pledged to increase defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product by 2035, which would serve as a greater deterrent to westward encroachment by Russia. “What is less recognized, however, is the fact that Europeans are already stymieing any such advance. They are now responsible for sustaining Ukraine in its fight against Russia,” Moran said. “While the U.S. shifts focus elsewhere, our European allies are doing the heavy lifting against one of our principal adversaries.” The senator said alliances existed despite foreign-policy differences among member countries, but the United States “should be careful to not overlook the ways our allies are quietly assisting the U.S. in the conflict against Iran.” U.S. allies in NATO granted permission to fly through airspace, opened bases to stage missions and offered ports for ships to undergo maintenance, Moran said. “At a time when our nation’s own budgetary pressures and backlogged industrial base limit our ability to sustain force in multiple theaters simultaneously, we cannot afford to take them for granted,” Moran said. USDA staff shortages U.S. Rep. Derek Schmidt, R-Kansas, urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture to promptly address staff shortages at local Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service offices. He signed onto a letter to USDA raising an alarm about delays in processing applications and payments. Persistent staff shortages could spread to other USDA programs tied to agriculture production and conservation, the letter said. Deployment of temporary staff in underserved county offices would be insufficient to meet ongoing demand, said the letter signed by Schmidt and 14 other members of Congress. “To deliver on the promises made to American agriculture, USDA must ensure local offices are staffed and equipped,” Schmidt said. “These programs are essential to managing risk, supporting conservation and keeping operations running. Reliable, timely service is critical to the success of producers and rural communities across Kansas and the country.” Schmidt represents a district that runs from Nebraska to Oklahoma in eastern Kansas. No other member of the Kansas congressional delegation signed the letter to USDA. NWS forecasting U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat serving all of Johnson, Miami, Anderson and Franklin counties as well as southern Wyandotte County, said she was concerned breakdowns in forecasting of storms and the early warning system may have put Kansans at risk in mid-April as EF-2 tornadoes hit the 3rd District. Davids said news reports indicated NWS offices in the Great Plaints didn’t launch weather balloons at 7 a.m. April 13 as they have for decades, apparently because of staffing issues. The decision to release the balloons at noon deprived meteorologists of information on developing storms. “These irresponsible decisions at the NWS have direct, real-world consequences for the safety of communities across Kansas and the country,” she said. “Kansans should not have to wonder whether the systems designed to protect them are fully operational when severe weather strikes.” Davids said in hours before tornadoes touched down, the NWS storm prediction center hadn’t identified a tornado threat in northeast Kansas. Davids said staffing shortages and missing data directly impacted forecast accuracy, reduced warning times and increasing risk to communities in the path of severe weather. “The fact that Kansans avoided catastrophic loss in this instance does not excuse these breakdowns,” she said. “It underscores how close we came, and what could happen if these failures continue.” Courtesy of Kansas Reflector
	Mother's Day brunch, sorted: Top-rated local restaurants nationwide for holiday delivery and reservations, according to DoorDash data Mother's Day brunch, sorted: Top-rated local restaurants nationwide for holiday delivery and reservations, according to DoorDash dataBrunch has become the defining meal of Mother’s Day — but as the ways people celebrate evolve, so do the options available to them. This year, DoorDash is spotlighting the local restaurants that make celebrating easy, whether that’s delivery to your door or securing a coveted reservation.The restaurants featured on this list were identified using DoorDash data and include small-medium sized restaurants with the highest average customer ratings, at least 1,000 reviews, and fewer than 10 stores on DoorDash. From family-owned diners to trend-setting brunch concepts, these are the spots that local communities keep coming back to.Order In, Brunch in Bed: Top Brunch Spots for DeliveryThe brunch buzz is real — last year, DoorDash customers ordered more than 29 million waffles, nearly 16 million pancakes, and over 500,000 eggs Benedict, underscoring the popularity of classic breakfast and brunch dishes. This year, bring brunch straight to your door. These top-rated local restaurants are ready to deliver the full experience.Belle's Delicatessen & Bar — Los AngelesFind hand-rolled, N.Y.-style bagels piled high with creative toppings such as the Loxsmith with nova lox and beet cream cheese, which is a brunch standout.Busy Bees Cafe & Catering — Capitola, CaliforniaFarm-fresh morning fare is done right here. The Bossy Bee, eggs scrambled with bacon, spinach, and mushrooms, topped with cheddar, avocado, and sour cream, is a fan favorite.Carolina's Diner — High Point, North CarolinaFluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and generous all-American breakfast platters are served around the clock.Creekside Restaurant — Lexington, South CarolinaSouthern comfort is served all day, with locals loyal to the chicken and waffles, country ham biscuits, and the beloved shrimp and grits.Egg Break — Salt Lake CityFind egg sandwiches on toasted ciabatta buns built with house-smoked meats and creative flavor combinations, not to mention the pork belly Hoff with Bravas sauce, which has earned cult status.Eggbred — Huntington Beach, CaliforniaCage-free egg creations on Japanese milk buns are done right here; the Nashville Hottie and the Ribeye Steak & Egg are not to be missed.Joan's on Third — Los AngelesThis LA brunch institution is beloved for its breakfast burrito, elevated avocado toast, and the iconic chocolate chip cookies.Joanie's Murfreesboro — Murfreesboro, TennesseeSweet and savory crepes, a Big Dawg Breakfast Burrito, and signature mimosas in six flavors make this a Murfreesboro brunch favorite.Lawrenceville Sandwich Co. — Lawrence Township, New JerseyEnjoy egg sandwiches on fresh-baked bagels, buttermilk pancakes, and creative morning builds that locals keep coming back for.Marvel Ranch — Reading, PennsylvaniaThis spot is a beloved old-school neighborhood diner serving hearty breakfast and brunch dishes, with the signature Marvel Mess, home fries, ham, peppers, eggs, and cheddar, bringing Reading locals back week after week.Olivier Cafe — PhiladelphiaTry handcrafted breakfast sandwiches and croissant scrambles in the heart of Old City, best enjoyed alongside one of their specialty lattes.One Shot Coffee — PhiladelphiaThe Ultimate breakfast sandwich and Moroccan scrambled eggs steal the show at this Northern Liberties brunch staple. Order alongside expertly pulled espresso.Panaderia Winnys — San Juan, Puerto RicoEnjoy traditional Puerto Rican revoltillos (scrambled egg sandwiches) and freshly baked pastries, served alongside bold local coffee.Pena's Donut Heaven & Grill — Pearland, TexasFresh-made donuts meet a full breakfast grill. Don’t miss the donut breakfast sandwich and brisket kolaches.Plumeria Cafe by Stacks — Laguna Niguel, CaliforniaThis spot offers a Hawaiian-inspired brunch featuring the Loco Moco, Portuguese Sausage Burrito, and the indulgent Captain Mac'Nut French Toast.Rolling Stars — West Chester, PennsylvaniaHand-rolled, N.Y.-style kettle-boiled bagels are baked fresh daily, served with house-made spreads and creative breakfast sandwiches that have made Rolling Stars a West Chester morning institution.Rose Cafe & Donuts — San Jose, CaliforniaTry made-to-order breakfast burritos with hashbrowns baked right in, paired with fresh-daily donuts that are worth the trip alone.Sunrise Bistro — Walnut Creek, CaliforniaThis spot offers fresh, well-executed morning fare that keeps Walnut Creek locals coming back every weekend.Tasty Cafe & Kitchen — Medford, MassachusettsNutella French toast, cage-free egg sandwiches, and breakfast burritos anchor the menu at this Portuguese-inspired Medford favorite.The Grove - Yerba Buena — San FranciscoFrench toast, eggs Benedict, and veggie quiche have earned this warm San Francisco brunch staple a devoted following among weekend morning regulars.Book Now, Celebrate Right: Reserve Your Table at Must-Visit Top SpotsSome occasions call for a table worth booking. Secure your seat at these sought-after brunch destinations before they fill up.Andros Taverna — ChicagoThis Greek-inspired brunch destination features dishes like tsoureki French toast, egg-in-a-hole on sesame koulouri, the baklava bear claw, and classic plates like the strapatsada (Greek-style scrambled eggs with tomato and feta), and the lox and happy egg bagel.Bar Tutto — ChicagoChef Joe Flamm's all-day Italian café in Fulton Market serves weekend brunch highlights such as the hearty egg sandwich on pillowy tigelle, the prosciutto cotto omelette, and fresh-baked bomboloni.Casa Madera — West Hollywood, CaliforniaEnjoy a coastal Mexican brunch inside the The Valorian Hotel, with sweeping LA views and standouts including the Hamachi Serrano, Cinnamon Crunch French Toast, and hand-crafted agave cocktails.Coquette — BostonA refined French-inspired brunch features standout dishes like crab Benedict, mulberry French toast with pistachio labneh, croque madame, and flaky pastries like butter croissants and sticky buns.Dante — Beverly Hills, CaliforniaHave a wood-fired Italian brunch on the rooftop of The Maybourne, with views over Beverly Hills and a menu of Neapolitan-style pizzas, house banana bread, and frittatas alongside classic aperitivo cocktails.Dante — New York CityThis iconic circa-1915 café serves a beloved Italian-inflected brunch, including shakshuka, brioche breakfast sandwiches, and baked eggs, best paired with their legendary Garibaldi or Negroni.Grand Banks — New York CityNYC's most celebrated floating oyster bar is aboard the historic Sherman Zwicker schooner, serving sustainably harvested East and West Coast oysters, an Andouille grits skillet, and nautical-inspired cocktails.Hatchet Hall — Los AngelesThis rustic, ingredient-driven brunch spot is known for its wood-fired cooking, seasonal vegetables, fresh biscuits, and hearty Southern-inspired plates.ilili Nomad — New York CityThis Lebanese-Mediterranean brunch spot in NoMad features a prix fixe of mezze and mains; don't miss the Zaatar Supreme, Croissant au Pistache, and the shareable hummus and baba ghanoush.Kyma Flatiron — New York CityEnjoy a Mykonos-inspired Greek brunch in the Flatiron, with fresh Mediterranean fish flown in daily, a standout trio of dips with pita, and grilled octopus that earns its own fan club.Lafayette — New York CityChef Andrew Carmellini's grand French brasserie in NoHo is beloved for its lemon ricotta pancakes, ham and brie omelet, and buttery pastry basket.Locanda Verde — New York CityChef Andrew Carmellini's beloved TriBeCa Italian taverna is where brunch brings housemade pastries, the Uovo Modenese with tomato hollandaise, and lamb meatball sliders in a warmly buzzing space.Lolita — BostonThis dark, Gothic-chic Mexican cantina in Back Bay serves weekend brunch with house-made flour tortilla tacos, avocado toast with cotija and pickled onion, and huevos rancheros worth ordering twice.Maple & Ash — ChicagoChicago's theatrically upscale steakhouse goes all out for Sunday brunch with the Alaskan King Crab Eggs Benedict, lobster avocado toast, and a roving champagne cart, which makes this one a true occasion.Motek Brickell — MiamiThis Israeli-Mediterranean bistro in Brickell City Centre is known for its signature shakshuka, award-winning Arayes Burger, house-baked pita, and freshly made hummus that draws locals back again and again.Rezdôra — New York CityEmilia-Romagna's pasta traditions land in the Flatiron in the most delicious way possible; weekend brunch brings gnocco fritto with prosciutto and the obsessively handmade cappelletti and gramigna this place is famous for.S.K.Y — ChicagoA modern, globally inspired brunch served dim-sum style, featuring creative dishes such as coconut pancakes, short rib shakshuka, and inventive egg preparations with an Asian and Southern-inflected touch.The Dutch — New York CityChef Andrew Carmellini's beloved SoHo American bistro, where weekend brunch is always packed for good reason; the Maine lobster frittata, duck waffles, and the famous hot fried chicken don't disappoint.Toca Madera — Las VegasThis Mexican-inspired steakhouse inside The Shops at Crystals near Aria, where weekend brunch brings Tres Leches French Toast, Taco Flight, Chicken and Waffles, and Mimosa Kit, is all brought to life with live music.Zak the Baker — MiamiWynwood's beloved Michelin-recognized kosher artisan bakery, where a frittata sandwich on ciabatta, avocado toast on sourdough, fresh-baked challah, and chocolate babka draw devoted crowds all week long.Methodology: The list of 2026 Mother’s Day Brunch Spots was generated by analyzing DoorDash data from March 2025 through March 2026. All small-medium sized restaurants and brands that serve breakfast/brunch, with the highest average overall customer rating, at least 1,000 reviews, and less than 10 stores, qualified for this list.Brunch order data is based on DoorDash order data from March 2025 to March 2026.This story was produced by DoorDash and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Evaluating non-drowsy allergy medicine options Evaluating non-drowsy allergy medicine optionsAllergy symptoms can disrupt daily life, causing sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion. Many people avoid taking allergy medications because of concerns about drowsiness, which can interfere with work, driving, or other activities. Non-drowsy allergy medicines offer relief without sedation, helping people stay alert and focused, Doctronic reports.These medications primarily belong to the class of second-generation antihistamines. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, which cross the blood-brain barrier and cause sedation, second-generation options are designed to minimize this effect. This makes them a preferred choice for those needing allergy relief during the day or while performing tasks that require concentration. Popular examples include cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine, each with unique properties and dosing schedules that cater to various needs and lifestyles.Key TakeawaysNon-drowsy allergy medications provide effective relief without causing sedation.Second-generation antihistamines are the most common non-drowsy options available in 2026.Understanding the differences between medication types helps tailor treatment to individual needs.Telehealth services can offer convenient access to expert advice and prescriptions for allergy relief.Combining medication with lifestyle adjustments can improve allergy management outcomes.How Non-Drowsy Allergy Medicines WorkAllergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Histamine is released during this process, triggering symptoms such as itching and swelling. Non-drowsy antihistamines block histamine receptors, preventing these symptoms from developing.Long-Lasting Allergy Relief for Daily ComfortThe key difference with non-drowsy medications is their limited penetration into the brain, which reduces sedation. This allows for effective symptom control without the side effects associated with older allergy drugs. Many non-drowsy antihistamines have a longer duration of action, meaning they can provide relief for up to 24 hours with just a single dose. This extended relief can be particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from seasonal allergies or chronic conditions, allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities or manage their daily responsibilities without interruption.Choosing the Right Allergy Treatment SafelySome non-drowsy allergy medications also come in combination formulas that include decongestants or other active ingredients to address multiple symptoms simultaneously. This can be particularly useful for those who experience nasal congestion along with typical allergy symptoms, providing a more comprehensive approach to allergy management. It's important for users to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best options tailored to their specific symptoms and health conditions, ensuring they receive the most effective treatment while minimizing any potential side effects.Top Non-Drowsy Allergy Medicines in 2026Several effective non-drowsy allergy medicines are widely available in 2026. These options vary in strength, duration, and delivery form, so selecting the right one depends on individual needs and medical advice. With the increasing prevalence of allergies due to environmental changes and lifestyle factors, understanding the best treatment options is essential for maintaining quality of life during allergy season.Second-Generation AntihistaminesLoratadine (Claritin): Popular for its long-lasting relief and minimal sedation. Available over-the-counter in tablets, liquids, and dissolvable forms, it is often the first choice for those looking to manage mild to moderate allergy symptoms without the risk of daytime drowsiness.Fexofenadine (Allegra): Known for rapid onset and effectiveness against seasonal allergies, it is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to other antihistamines. This makes it ideal for individuals who need to remain alert and focused, such as students or professionals, during peak allergy seasons.Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Provides strong relief but may cause mild drowsiness in some individuals. Often recommended for more severe allergy symptoms, it is particularly effective against pet dander and dust mites, making it a go-to for allergy sufferers with indoor triggers.Levocetirizine (Xyzal): A refined version of cetirizine, offering similar benefits with potentially fewer sedative effects. This medication is often preferred for those who have experienced drowsiness with other antihistamines, allowing for better management of symptoms while maintaining daily activities.Other Non-Drowsy OptionsIn addition to antihistamines, nasal sprays containing corticosteroids or antihistamines can relieve congestion and inflammation without causing drowsiness. Examples include fluticasone (Flonase) and azelastine nasal spray. These are often used in combination with oral medications for comprehensive symptom control. Nasal sprays act directly on the nasal passages, providing targeted relief and minimizing systemic side effects, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with localized symptoms such as nasal congestion or postnasal drip.There are also emerging treatments, such as sublingual immunotherapy tablets that are designed for specific allergens, offering a long-term solution to allergy sufferers. These tablets dissolve under the tongue and gradually desensitize the immune system to allergens, providing a more permanent relief option. As research continues to evolve, patients can expect even more innovative treatments that promise to enhance their quality of life while managing allergy symptoms effectively.Choosing the Right Allergy MedicineWhen selecting a non-drowsy allergy medicine, consider factors such as symptom severity, duration, and personal sensitivity to medications. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures the best choice and proper dosing.Factors to ConsiderSymptom type: Nasal congestion might require a nasal spray, while itchy eyes may respond better to oral antihistamines.Medication interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about other medications to avoid adverse effects.Age and health conditions: Some allergy medicines are not recommended for young children, pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions.Duration of use: Long-term use of some medications may require medical supervision.Managing Allergies Beyond MedicationMedication is only one part of effective allergy management. Lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce exposure to allergens and improve overall well-being.Practical Tips to Reduce Allergy SymptomsKeep windows closed: During high pollen seasons, keeping windows shut limits allergen entry.Use air purifiers: HEPA filters can reduce airborne allergens indoors.Regular cleaning: Vacuuming with a HEPA filter and washing bedding frequently helps remove dust mites and pet dander.Avoid outdoor activities: On days with high pollen counts, limit time spent outside.Shower after outdoor exposure: Rinsing off pollen reduces skin and hair allergens. When to Seek Medical HelpIf allergy symptoms persist despite medication and lifestyle changes, or if symptoms worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. Severe allergic reactions or asthma symptoms require immediate medical attention.Non-Drowsy Allergy Medicine: Staying Ahead in 2026Advances in allergy treatment continue to improve patient comfort and convenience. Non-drowsy allergy medicines remain a cornerstone for managing symptoms without sacrificing alertness or daily productivity.Combining these medications with smart lifestyle choices and expert guidance can offer a comprehensive approach to allergy relief in 2026.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre all second-generation antihistamines completely non-drowsy?Most second-generation antihistamines cause minimal drowsiness, but some individuals may still experience mild sedation, especially with cetirizine. It varies by person, so monitoring your response is important.Can I take non-drowsy allergy medicine with other medications?Many non-drowsy allergy medicines are safe with common medications, but it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to avoid interactions, especially if taking blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, or other medications for chronic conditions.How quickly do non-drowsy allergy medicines work?Some medications like fexofenadine can start relieving symptoms within an hour, while others may take a few hours for the full effect. Consistent daily use during allergy season often yields the best results.Is it safe to use non-drowsy allergy medicine long-term?Long-term use is generally safe under medical supervision, particularly for second-generation antihistamines. Always follow dosing instructions and consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.Can I get a prescription for non-drowsy allergy medicine through telehealth?Yes, there are platforms that offer convenient access to doctors who can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe appropriate non-drowsy allergy medications.The Bottom LineNon-drowsy allergy medicines offer effective, long-lasting symptom relief without interfering with alertness or daily activities. Choosing the right option depends on your symptoms, health history, and lifestyle. When allergies persist or treatment choices feel overwhelming,This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Melania Trump wants ABC to 'take a stand' against Jimmy Kimmel after 'hateful' joke Two days before the White House Correspondents' Dinner ended in gunfire, Kimmel delivered a mock Correspondents' Dinner speech during a sketch on his show. The first lady said it was "corrosive."
	Large part of tree falls on house in Rock Island A large part of a tree fell on house in Rock Island on Monday. It happened in the 2500 block of 28th Street. It serves as a good reminder to check the health of your trees regularly, especially before storms and high winds. Contact a local arborist if you think your tree needs a closer [...]
	Tree downs power lines, closes part of 16th Street in Moline A fallen tree brought down power lines and closed part of 16th Street in Moline, leaving hundreds of customers without power as crews work to restore service.
	Young pop stars are burning out — and singing through it On jagged new albums and festival stages, rising pop artists are learning there may be no escape from the influencer economy.
	2026 moving trends report: Where are Americans looking to move right now? 2026 moving trends report: Where are Americans looking to move right now? After a brief fall, mortgage rates are right back up and affordability concerns are locking many in place, despite the current “buyers market.”Yet, there are still those who are pulling the relocation trigger, or hoping to. They’re aiming for buyer-friendly states (with jobs) and suburban enclaves where a mortgage won’t break the bank.MoveBuddha examined 78,000 searches made in the first three months of 2026, using its moving cost calculator to uncover the moving trends shaping 2026, so far.Here’s what the findings show.Spring 2026 Moving Trends:Idaho is the #1 state for moves in early 2026, with way more searches for moves into the state than out (2.05 in-to-out move ratio). It’s the first time the state ratio has been higher than 2.0 since 2020.The surprise growth story of 2025? The Mountain West states are seeing a rise of interest, led by Montana, with +42 percentage points since 2025, Idaho (+36), Arizona (+27), and New Mexico (+27).Florida earns the highest volume of inbound demand, 26% net inbound searches, followed by North Carolina, Texas, South Carolina, and Arizona. The top five states account for 70% of net inbound demand.Movers are quitting dense Northeastern states at the highest rates, with Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Nebraska, and Massachusetts all seeing some of the highest numbers of searches for moves out versus in.Moving to #1 Myrtle Beach isn’t slowing down, and it’s not the only high-inbound retiree-friendly city shaped by tourism and hospitality, there’s also St. Augustine, Ocala, The Villages, Kissimmee, and Wilmington.Places with strong local culture, real university influence, and outdoor appeal are drawing attention, too, namely Boulder, Bellingham, Fort Collins, and Portland.Exodus cities span regions nationwide, but it’s California’s Bakersfield and Riverside with the lowest interest for inbound moves: ~40 searches for moves into the city for every 100 out. Layoffs may play a role, with recent WARN activity showing substantial layoffs across several top exit regions. moveBuddha I. Moving trends by state: 2026’s most popular statesNationwide, which states are attracting interest from prospective movers at the highest rates in 2026?MoveBuddha search data was analyzed, and the rate of searches for moves into a state versus out of a state was compared to uncover 2026’s most popular states to move to this year, so far.The most popular state in early 2026 is an old favorite, IdahoIdaho was a 2020 move-to darling, and it’s back in the spotlight. Since its high of 320 searches in for every 100 out six years ago, the state has taken a backseat to the headliners. It’s not that move-ins stopped. In fact, the state has maintained positive inflow and sustained a steady rise of interest year after year.And the proof is in the pudding. New U.S. Census data shows that 80% of Idaho counties grew their populations in 2025 and Idaho was among the top ranked inbound states of 2025 with a survey from United Van Lines showing family as the #1 driver.One reason may be increasing Californian exits. A California Policy Lab analysis found that in the last five years net moves from California to Idaho increased over the last five years and that for each Idahoan that moves to the Golden State, it receives more than two in return. MoveBuddha data backs that inflow story; of searches made early in 2026, 24% of moves to Idaho were from California. Additional analysis found that housing costs are a driving factor. moveBuddha Sunbelt states are still relocation darlings, even if #2 South Carolina (2.01) has dropped from the top spot this quarter. Neighboring states #5 North Carolina (1.63) and #7 Tennessee (1.46) also consistently rake in significantly more searches for moves in versus out.Here are the most popular states that people are moving to in 2026, so far: moveBuddha In which states is moving demand rising in 2026?Only 19 of 50 states gained ground year over year in net inbound move searches.The Mountain West is making a comeback, home to the top two states with the largest increases in move-in-to-out ratios: Montana (+42%) and Idaho (+26%). Arizona and New Mexico also land in the top five. moveBuddha Together, these states signal a broadening of demand beyond the South’s perennial magnets, as movers look for affordability and overlooked alternatives.The states with the highest net volume of searches for moves in: FloridaWhen it comes to total net inbound volume, though, the big states still dominate, but who’s winning?The five states with the highest net volume of searches for moves in: Florida leads with 26% of all net inbound searches, followed by North Carolina (16.2%), Texas (13.1%), South Carolina (10.1%), and Arizona (6.9%).Together, these five states account for nearly 70% of all net inbound moving demand. moveBuddha II. 2026’s least popular states to move toThe bottom 10 is dominated by the Northeast. For outbound moves, densely populated Northeastern states dominate the least popular destinations, with many more people looking to leave than relocate there.Least popular states of 2026 moveBuddha Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania all rank among the least popular states for inbound moves in 2026.California is still there but no longer is it of note for being the top exodus state, instead it’s now the biggest non-Northeastern exception.In addition to being densely populated, they face affordability challenges in an America struggling with persistent inflation and pay that hasn’t kept up. Particularly affected are states like New Jersey and Connecticut, which have some of the highest property taxes, deal with exorbitant real estate and rent prices, and increasingly see corporate headquarters leave the state, taking jobs with them.III. Which cities are especially popular to move to in 2026?Movers are still favoring Sunbelt cities in 2026. Six of the top 10 cities are in the Carolinas and Florida, with the rest spread across the Northwest, New England, and the Rockies.At the top is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, which draws 2.41 inbound moves for every one outbound.Top cities to move to in 2026Here are the top cities people are moving to in 2026: moveBuddha Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is #1 for drawing in way more moves in than out so far in early 2026.Movers continue to flock to smaller cities where their daily lives are even more human-sized.It’s a noticeable trend in recent years: a steady interest in midsized cities and smaller metropolitan areas that offer a balance of economic opportunities and quality of life.Nearly half of this year’s top inbound cities are familiar retirement-friendly destinations. Myrtle Beach, St. Augustine, Ocala, Kissimmee, The Villages, and Wilmington all reflect that ongoing demand for places shaped by warm weather, hospitality, and accessible living.Bellingham, Portland, Fort Collins, and Boulder, reflect a different story: They are all cities with strong local culture, outdoor access, and a livable pace that feels more sustainable than larger urban centers.Whether moving to retiree-friendly coastal markets or culture-rich hubs in the Rockies and Pacific Northwest, 88% of U.S.-based respondents want to save money if they move this year (2026 moving survey). And these places are likely where housing is cheaper, bills are lower and day-to-day life is less expensive than wherever they’re leaving.Exit cities of 2026 moveBuddha 2026’s outflow map spreads across the nation.Sure, this year’s top two exit cities are in California, but the rest range from the mid-Atlantic to the Midwest, the Northeast, and even the South.At the top of the outbound list sits Bakersfield, California (0.38 move in-to-out ratio), followed closely by Riverside, California (0.42).In the mid-Atlantic cities like Virginia’s Arlington and Norfolk, as well as Maryland’s Baltimore, are seeing high outbound interest. In the Northeast, it’s New Haven, Connecticut. Even a Southern city shows up: Fayetteville, North Carolina.These cities are struggling to retain residents despite seven of the 10 offering home costs on average under $400,000, signaling that affordability alone no longer guarantees an inflow.Recent WARN activity (Q1 2026) adds another layer to the outflow picture, though in several cases the available data reflects broader county or statewide regions rather than the city alone. moveBuddha In Bakersfield and Riverside, the correlation is strongest. Layoffs are likely not the whole story, but the pattern suggests that job market stress may be a contributing factor. Overall, the cities losing people tend to see limited growth or fading opportunity.2026’s Trending Moving Destinations: Americans ChooseDespite rising housing costs and economic uncertainty, Americans haven’t stopped wanting to move. But their moves are more calculated, shaped by affordability, job stability, lifestyle choices and a growing willingness to consider places beyond the usual favorites.Even still, America’s dream move to state is still Florida drawing 26% of all net inbound searches because it offers something rare right now: no state income tax, warm weather, and housing markets across the state that still present a viable path to ownership for middle-income buyers.Idaho and the broader Mountain West are climbing fast because they offer the same affordability-and-outdoors combination that the Sunbelt has long sold, but with less competition and lower price tags than those markets now carry.While retirement-friendly destinations like Myrtle Beach, St. Augustine, and The Villages keep winning because for people on a fixed income or winding down their careers, the value equation (low costs, warm climate, established hospitality infrastructure) is simply hard to beat anywhere else in the country.Methodology and SourcesMoveBuddha proprietary data was collected from Jan. 1, 2020 through March 27, 2026, to analyze move trends. The data comes directly from the moveBuddha Moving Cost Calculator.In-to-out ratio: MoveBuddha relied primarily on the in-to-out ratio equation in its analysis to see which cities are earning more residents by searches for moves in than losing them via searches for moves out: [Number of queries for moves in] ÷ [Number of queries for moves out] = [in-to-out ratio].This story was produced by moveBuddha and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Half of Americans think AI will replace their financial advisor. The reality is more complicated. Half of Americans think AI will replace their financial advisor. The reality is more complicated.If you’ve ever asked ChatGPT whether you should refinance your mortgage or how to allocate your 401(k), you’re not alone. You’re not even in the minority anymore.A recent survey from Credit One Bank found that more than a quarter of U.S. consumers have turned to an AI-powered app or chatbot for financial advice in the past year. With the rise of popularity, people are finding more uses for AI in their everyday lives.But here’s where it gets interesting: Despite the rising comfort with AI tools, most people still call their mom first.Most People Still Trust Humans Over Algorithms Credit One Bank For all the buzz about AI-powered finance tools, the numbers tell a pretty grounded story. Sixty-three percent of respondents said they turned to family or friends for financial guidance in the past year. Only 26% said the same about an AI tool.That gap matters because money decisions aren’t purely mathematical. They carry emotional weight. A study from Vanguard shows that about 40% of the value an advisor provides their clients is emotional.When you’re debating whether to drain your savings for a down payment or if you can afford to leave a job, a chatbot can run the numbers but can’t read the room. Your sister-in-law, who went through the same thing last year, can.That said, most consumers are still in the experimenting phase. They're open to AI, but they haven't shifted away from the people they already trust.1 in 5 Americans Already Let AI Make the Call Credit One Bank Here’s the stat that should make financial advisors pay attention: 20% of U.S. consumers say they’ve made a significant financial decision based primarily on an AI tool’s recommendation.Not “looked at what the AI said and then ran it by a professional.” Not “used it for budgeting tips.” One in 5 people let an algorithm lead on a decision that could affect their financial future. Credit One Bank The generational breakdown adds texture. About 29% of Millennials and 31% of Gen Z have done this, compared to just 12% of Baby Boomers. It makes sense, since younger consumers grew up Googling everything from homework answers to health symptoms. Adding “should I invest in index funds” to that list isn’t a stretch.But even among Gen Z, the most digitally native generation, less than a third have taken this step. Growing up with technology doesn’t mean automatically trusting it with your retirement account.And when things go wrong? Forty percent of all respondents said they'd hold themselves accountable if an AI-guided financial decision led to losses. People are using the tools, but they're not passing the blame.Privacy Is the Biggest Sticking Point Credit One Bank When asked what concerned them most, accuracy wasn’t the top answer, as most would think. Data privacy was, cited by 36% of consumers, with accuracy close behind at 33%.To truly get personalized financial advice, you’d have to share income, debts, spending habits, investment accounts, maybe your credit score. That’s a lot of sensitive information to hand over to a system you can’t look in the eye.The gender divide here is telling. Forty-one percent of men said they’d feel comfortable sharing their full financial data with an AI system. Only 25% of women said the same. When asked whether they trust AI more than a human advisor, 15% of men said yes versus 10% of women.The Harvard Business School also saw this pattern with broader AI adoption. Their research shows women are adopting AI tools at a 25% lower rate than men on average, citing ethical concerns about using the tools.Taken together, the data suggests the gap between men and women isn't simply about trusting the technology to work. Women appear to be weighing a broader set of considerations, including whether they should be using these tools at all, before opting in.The Replacement Question Isn’t as Simple as It Sounds Credit One Bank Now for the headline stat: 51% of U.S. consumers believe AI will replace most financial advisors within the next decade. That’s a majority, and it sounds dramatic.But consumer behavior tells a different story. Only 31% say they’d feel comfortable sharing their full financial data with an AI system today. Half the country expects a replacement, and less than a third is ready to participate. That’s a wide gap between prediction and practice.Income plays a part in how people see this playing out. Among those earning under $50,000, 55% expect AI to take over. Among those earning $150,000 or more, that number drops to 46%. It makes sense. If you’ve never been able to afford a financial advisor, a free AI alternative sounds like progress. If you already have a trusted advisor managing a portfolio, you’re less likely to see a chatbot as an upgrade.The workplace angle is worth watching, too. Fifty-four percent of respondents said they’d use an AI financial planning tool if their employer offered it as a free benefit. Part of the reason could be that when a company integrates an AI tool into its benefits package, it signals something beyond a casual recommendation. It suggests the employer has already vetted the platform and trusted it enough to run their own financial operations through it. That kind of built-in proof of concept may do more to lower the adoption barrier than any marketing campaign could.The 60% who said they're more likely to trust AI financial advice when it's backed by a known financial institution seem to reinforce that idea. People may not be waiting for the technology to prove itself on its own. They're looking for someone else to go first.So will AI replace your financial advisor? Maybe eventually. But the more accurate prediction is that AI will show up alongside your advisor first, handling the routine stuff while humans stick around for the conversations that actually require one.MethodologyCredit One Bank surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults nationwide in a survey conducted via Pollfish. Respondents answered questions about where they go for financial advice, how much they trust AI compared to human advisors, whether they’ve acted on AI-generated recommendations, and what worries them most about letting a machine handle their money. Responses were broken down by age, income, gender, and ethnicity to spot patterns across different groups.This story was produced by Credit One Bank and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Win 6 Club Tickets behind home plate to the Quad Cities River Bandits Weekend Homestand Game! QC River Bandits Ticket Giveaway
	Cruise travel is having more than a moment. It's having a decade. Cruise travel is having more than a moment. It’s having a decade.The cruise industry is not waiting for travelers to come around. By most measures, they already have. A projected 21.7 million Americans are expected to cruise in 2026, a record high and a 4.5 percent increase over last year, according to AAA."Cruising has come a long way since The Love Boat," said writer and travel expert Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, aka JetSetSarah. "Pull up to the port, unpack once and have the world come to you."This April, more than 11,500 attendees and 650 exhibitors gathered at Seatrade Cruise Global to map out what comes next.Dining as the main eventFood has always been part of the cruise experience. The question the industry is now asking is what happens when it becomes the point.Cruise lines are placing greater emphasis on the dining experience, with destination-inspired menus, port-specific drinks and more immersive, multi-course experiences.Royal Caribbean introduced the Empire Supper Club this year, pairing multi-course menus with craft cocktails and live music into a single evening.Expedition cruising finds a new audienceExpedition cruising is one of the fastest-growing types of cruising, and major cruise lines are moving into it.These itineraries go where other ships do not. Travelers kayak among glaciers, contribute to citizen science programmes and spend time in the field with naturalists and researchers, with programming built around science and conservation rather than port stops.National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has operated in this space for decades, with programs including the Visiting Scientist Program, the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund and the Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship.Wellness expands across the shipWellness is no longer a spa deck. It is becoming a reason to book.A few years ago, a thermal suite was a selling point. Now it is closer to a baseline expectation. Meditation spaces, sleep-focused staterooms and recovery lounges are following the same trajectory. A dedicated wellness pavilion debuted at this year's show, a signal that the category has grown large enough to need its own floor space.Cunard's Wellness at Sea program runs across multiple days. Its three tracks (Relax, Energise and Recover) each combine fitness, spa and mindfulness elements. Shore excursions and destination-specific spa offerings carry the experience beyond the ship.Ships as cultural hubsEntertainment on cruise ships used to mean a stage show. Cruise lines are now producing content that doesn't exist anywhere else.Holland America Line partnered with The Verdon Fosse Legacy to debut "Fosse and Verdon, The Duet That Changed Broadway," a live musical and multimedia tribute to the work of Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon. The production marks the first international staging of their work at sea.Onboard retail is moving in the same direction. More cruise lines are curating locally sourced goods and destination-specific products at port, the kind passengers could only find by actually being there.The bigger pictureThe passenger numbers tell one part of the story. What cruise lines are building inside that growth tells another."Today's ships offer amenities that are at least as good as, and often more comprehensive than, those in resorts and hotels," Greaves-Gabbadon said. "A cruise can be equally enjoyable for solos, families, honeymooners, groups and adventurers, and that versatility is a large part of their appeal."What the show floor made clear is that the industry is not waiting to be discovered. It is building toward the traveler it wants next.This story was produced by Seatrade Cruise Global and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Survey: Outdated tech makes it harder to level up Survey: Outdated tech makes it harder to level upToday, more than half of Americans use technology to fuel hobbies like illustration, photo editing, or gaming. Tech limitations shouldn’t hold us back from our passions, but HP’s survey reveals 40% of people have slowed down or stepped away from personal projects due to device performance.November 2025 survey data from over 1,200 U.S. adults shows how performance gaps in everyday technology can create unnecessary friction for hobbyists.Key Takeaways58% of Americans use technology at home for personal projects and activities.Gaming, in particular, is very popular with Gen Zers (people ages 18-28). Thirty-eight percent of Gen Zers use technology to play or create games at home.86% of people have experienced device limitations or frustrations when working on a personal project.40% of people have paused or stepped away from a project because their device couldn't keep up—with millennials and Gen Zers feeling the impact the most.Whether it's optimizing your current setup or upgrading to a new device, there are practical ways to get back on track.More Than Half of Americans Are Using Tech to Pursue Their PassionsToday’s technology makes it easier, faster, and more affordable to pursue hobbies that once were too technical or too expensive for a layperson. Home gaming computers with the latest graphics cards and 500GB storage capacity can rival an e-sports athlete’s battlestation. Hobbyist video editors can create full-length features, thanks to 4K displays and ultra-fast SSD speed. HP Today, 58% of U.S. adults use tech at home for personal projects and other activities. HP’s survey found that 25% of these people edit or enhance photos, making it the most popular tech-related hobby. Other common hobbies include playing and creating video games (24%),taking online courses or engaging in self-paced learning (21%), and writing or blogging (18%).Today, home technology can function as an all-in-one creative studio. People are tackling more than one hobby at a time on the same device, from gaming and multimedia editing to coding. Modern home technology should keep up with our endless drive to learn, create, and grow. That means we need high-performance devices that are versatile enough to handle multiple demanding tasks at once.Gen Z Sets the Bar With Gaming and Learning at Double the RateUnlike older generations, many Gen Zers grew up with access to smartphones, modern game consoles, and high-speed internet. That may be why 77% of Gen Zers use technology for their hobbies, far outpacing older generations, even millennials:Gen Zers (ages 18-28): 77%Millennials (ages 29-44): 65%Gen Xers (ages 45-60): 52%Baby boomers (ages 61-79): 45%That’s partially fueled by their love of video games: 38% of Gen Zers use technology to play or make video games, more than even the 30% of millennials. Gen Zers are also more likely than other generations to use tech for editing photos, writing, and taking online courses.For young adults, technology and creativity often go hand in hand. Whether they’re watching a tutorial on their phone or learning how to use AI from their kitchen table, they often use everyday devices as tools for self-expression and continuous learning.As technology continues to advance, Gen Zers won’t be the last generation to integrate it into their lives. The way younger people use their technology today could predict what future generations will expect from their devices. And when their tech doesn’t work as expected, it can interrupt learning, slow progress, or stall creative momentum. This is an issue many creators are already running into.86% of Creators Are Running Into Device LimitationsOur imaginations are endless. Our tech isn’t. Devices—especially older devices—often struggle to keep up with the demands of sophisticated gaming, editing, and art programs. The majority (86%) of people who use tech at home for personal projects run into device limitations and frustration.Some may be struggling because they’re trying to do complex tasks on a mobile device that isn’t equipped for it. Three-quarters (75%) of people rely on mobile devices like laptops, tablets, or smartphones for their hobbies. Nearly 2 in 5 people (39%) experience lag issues when using tech for their hobbies, 36% struggle with limited storage space, and 28% face battery or charging problems.Gen Zers know this pain: 50% say limited storage space commonly gets in the way of their personal projects. This may be because Gen Zers report playing more video games than other generations, and many modern games take up an astonishing amount of memory, often exceeding 100GB.If you try to run a AAA game on a 10-year–old laptop without enough memory, your game may run slowly or glitch. To play that game, you probably need a specialized gaming desktop or laptop with ultra-high definition displays, modern graphics cards, and plenty of RAM.These tech limitations can have real consequences: 40% of people have paused or stepped away from at least one of their personal projects or activities because their device couldn’t keep up. HP Across generations, millennials and Gen Zers are the most likely to pause or step away from a project due to device limitations. This goes beyond simply rage-quitting a video game. For those working on a passion project or creative side hustle, this can cause them to lose momentum on their dream entirely.Get More From Your Current Device—or Find One That Keeps UpThe good news? You don't always need to buy a new device to get better performance. There are steps you can take right now to optimize what you already have. Simple fixes like clearing cached files, closing background apps, updating drivers, and managing startup programs can make a noticeable difference in speed and responsiveness.But if your device is several years old and still struggling after optimization, it may be time for an upgrade.HP makes it easier than ever to find high-performance devices at a range of price points.Chromebooks, for example, can come with more than 8GB of RAM, 1080p cameras, and AI compatibility—making them a surprisingly powerful option. Creators can also explore laptop subscriptions, which provide premium performance (complete with live support) for a fraction of the cost of a new computer.MethodologyThe survey of 1,285 U.S. adults was conducted via YouGov Audience for HP on Nov. 17-18, 2025. Data is weighted and the margin of error is approximately +/-3% for the overall sample with a 95% confidence level.This story was produced by HP and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Brown University students injured in mass shooting say their university failed to protect them Caution tape encircled much of Brown University's campus, including the Engineering Research Center (pictured), in the wake of a Dec. 13 mass shooting as community members and visitors gathered to pay tribute to the victims. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current)Three Brown University students injured during the December mass shooting in an academic building are suing the school for inadequate security and failing to act on warnings of suspicious activity by the shooter. The three first-year students are each seeking damages in excess of $10,000 apiece for the physical and mental harm caused by what they allege was negligence on the university’s part, according to the complaints filed in Rhode Island Superior Court on Thursday, and first reported by the Boston Globe Rhode Island on Monday. Copies of the identical lawsuits were also obtained by Rhode Island Current. “Brown’s conduct, as alleged herein, was so willful, reckless, and wicked as to amount to criminality, which, for the good of society and as warning to Brown, ought to be punished by an award of punitive damages over and above that provided in an award of compensatory damages,” the complaint states. All three students, referred to in court documents as “J. Doe No. 1, 2 and 3,” are represented by Providence law firm Decof, Mega & Quinn, which did not immediately respond to inquiries for comment Monday. Brian Clark, a university spokesperson, confirmed the university had received the complaints but did not immediately comment on the allegations. “Brown is reviewing the complaints carefully and promptly,” Clark said in an email Monday. “Out of respect for the privacy interests of the plaintiffs, we have no details to share on the merits of the litigation at this time. We will respond as appropriate through the legal process. We remain committed to the safety and security of our community and to supporting the path to recovery and repair for our students, faculty, staff and members of the broader community. ”The lawsuits come more than five months after Claudio Manuel Neves Valente opened fire during an economics review in Brown’s Barus & Holley building on Dec. 13. Two students were killed, and nine were injured, including the three plaintiffs. Neves Valente, a Portuguese national who briefly attended Brown in 2000, fled the scene on foot, launching a five-day manhunt that spanned local, state and federal law enforcement. Neves Valente, who also shot and killed a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor two days after the Brown shooting, was found dead in a storage locker in Salem, New Hampshire. In the wake of the shooting, university officials announced a series of security measures amid scrutiny — including from the U.S. Department of Education — over the open access and lack of cameras within the academic building where the shooting took place. Like much of the university campus, the 220,000-square foot building is enmeshed in the residential neighborhoods of the East Side of Providence. Former Providence Police Chief Hugh T. Clements was also brought on to lead the university’s public safety agency. Clements’ predecessor, Rodney Chatman, was put on leave and subsequently agreed to a settlement with the university after the shooting amid allegations that the university violated safety laws tied to its federal funding. The university’s internal review, overseen by global consulting firm Teneo, is expected to continue through the spring, with “key outcomes” to be shared publicly upon completion, Clark said. The university is also in contact with federal regulators through the U.S. Department of Education, which launched its own probe into university security measures in late December, Clark said. A spokesperson for the education department did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday. But the improvements come too late, according to the three students now suing the university. “Brown did not maintain any meaningful or effective security presence at the relevant entrances to Barus and Holley to screen, question, deter, or restrict entry during the examination period, notwithstanding the obvious student use of the building, its integration into the surrounding urban environment, and the prior reports concerning Valente’s suspicious presence there,” the complaints state. The complaints each allege four counts of negligence, including physical protections of its facilities and for adequate staff training, and demand a jury trial. A university custodian saw Neves Valente inside the building for several weeks before the shooting reported the suspicious activity to campus security. Yet security officers failed to investigate the warning or increase building security, the complaints stated. Another witness, identified in the court documents and publicly as “John,” also reported seeing Neves Valente in the building hours before the shooting. John’s detailed description of Neves Valente helped law enforcement ultimately track his path to New Hampshire, relying largely on surveillance footage from nearby residential properties. But there was no footage inside the auditorium where the shooting took place, nor the hallways surrounding it, because Barus & Holley only had two outside cameras. “As direct and proximate result of Brown’s aforementioned acts of negligence, Plaintiff suffered and became afflicted with grave and severe personal injuries, causing Plaintiff to suffer great pain of body, mind, nerves and nervous system, incur significant medical expenses, and extreme conscious pain and suffering and specific emotional distress all of which will continue into the future and are, otherwise, permanent,” the complaints state. A hearing before R.I. Associate Justice Shannon Signore is scheduled for 2 p.m. on May 5, according to the public court docket. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Rhode Island Current
	'I love transforming': Nick Offerman goes from Pawnee to pro wrestler Best known for his role as Ron Swanson on Parks and Recreation, Offerman plays a former professional wrestler reconnecting with his estranged daughter in Margo's Got Money Troubles.
	Buying a new phone charger? Read this first (BPT) - Wireless chargers are built by many brands for a wide array of small mobile electronics, so how do you know which ones work the fastest and help devices stay charged longest?The best way to charge your cell phone, wireless headphones or smart watch depends on something you've probably never heard of: the Qi standard (pronounced "chee"), which was first released in 2010 by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), a standards development organization that works with the world's top tech companies to set the world's leading standard for ensuring that wireless charging of small mobile electronics works smoothly and efficiently — no matter what brand's products you're using — and provide protocols that enhance wireless charging safety.Since 2023, devices created in accordance with the newer version of the standard, Qi2, have offered wireless charging that's faster and more energy efficient, providing optimal charging performance. Over 100 of the biggest names in technology worked together to create the Qi2 global standard in wireless charging. In 2025, technological advancements enabled an even faster-charging version of the Qi2 standard: Qi version 2.2.1 (also called Qi2 25W), which raises the power delivery from 15 to 25 watts."Our goal is constant improvement," said Paul Struhsaker, executive director of WPC. "When we launched Qi2, besides the immediate boost in charging speed and energy efficiency, one of its benefits was serving as a steppingstone for even faster, more efficient wireless charging in the future. This is demonstrated by Qi2 25W's remarkably fast, efficient wireless charging."In addition to the Apple iPhone, major Android smartphones have now joined the Qi2 ecosystem, making the list of Qi2 Certified devices even longer. There are now nearly 2 billion Qi and Qi2 devices in use by consumers across the world.Here's why the charger you use matters, and how to ensure you're getting the best product to keep your essential devices up and running all day. Why wireless charging?Tired of looking for cables, fumbling to plug in devices in the dark or small spaces — or even wearing out the port in your gadgets with the constant plugging in?Wireless charging with devices built to the Qi2 standard provide one clean charging setup with minimal cords, less fuss and minimal mess. That means you can even charge your compatible phone(s), smartwatch and earbuds all at the same time, without worrying about tangled cables.Wireless chargers come in a variety of designs to meet user needs whether for home, office, car or traveling. Regardless of the design, all Qi2 chargers employ a magnetic attachment between your Qi2-enabled phone and charger that ensures a perfect alignment for optimal energy efficiency every time. Simply drop your phone on the charger and you'll feel the click as the devices lock together.The need for speedFaster wireless charging was the number one consumer-requested feature to improve wireless charging satisfaction, according to WPC market research. Qi2 took a big step in addressing this demand for faster charging when it first launched with 15 watts of charging power in 2023.The result? Some Qi2 Certified devices charge phones as fast as from 0% to 50% power in about 30 minutes."Qi2 25W is the first standard to enable truly high-speed wireless charging," added Fady Mishriki, chair of the WPC Board of Directors. "Consumers will be delighted when they experience Qi2 25W, as it delivers nearly 70% more power than the original Qi2."How to keep your phone from dyingOne of the worst things about using small devices is when they conk out right when you need them, sending you scrambling for a charger.Qi2 chargers use a magnetic attachment that creates perfect alignment between your phone and the charger, enabling faster, more efficient charging. The satisfying magnetic snap lets you know when devices are perfectly aligned and charging, so you can just pop your device on the charger and go, without worrying about whether your device found the charging "sweet spot" or not. You can trust they'll be charging and will stay charged longer.Rather than waiting until your phone is nearly dying to charge up, try to keep the charge between 20%-80% for maximum efficiency and optimal battery health. You can use strategies like reducing screen brightness, turning off push notifications you don't need and disabling background app refresh to keep your phone going even longer.It's also recommended to keep devices away from heat, which can be damaging to batteries (whether the heat is external or internal). Chargers built to the Qi2 standard offer advanced thermal management that prevents overheating and helps protect batteries from degradation.How to be sure it's a Qi2 Certified wireless chargerQi2 Certified chargers are designed for interoperability — ensuring any Qi2 Certified device works smoothly with other Qi2 devices regardless of brand — plus energy efficiency. Furthermore, chargers certified to the Qi2 standard include important safety features such as thermal management to keep chargers from overheating and foreign object detection. Non-certified chargers may not include these features which safeguard user safety as well as the health of your charging devices.To ensure you're getting a Qi Certified charger before you buy, examine the box and/or the charger to look for the Qi or Qi2 logo. Buying online? Check the product's wireless specifications for Qi certification first. If in doubt or you can't find the logo, check the Wireless Power Consortium website where they maintain a database of all Qi Certified devices.Beware of chargers that use claims like "Qi compliant" or "works with Qi." These terms are used by brands that are not certified and hope you won't notice the difference. Virtually all major wireless charger brands produce Qi2 Certified wireless chargers, including Belkin, Anker and Baseus, to name just a few. Qi Certified cell phones include iPhone, Samsung and Google Pixel.If you haven't tried Qi2, you haven't really tried wireless charging. Learn more about the Qi2 standard at ChargeWithQi.com.
	New Mexico Primary 2026: NM House of Representatives, District 13 Kids ride bicycles in Tower Park, located in Albuquerque's House District 13, where candidates for the Democratic primary, public housing manager Matthew Archuleta and incumbent labor organizer Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero, both discussed affordability as a central issue in their race. (Danielle Prokop/Source NM)Residents of southwestern Albuquerque’s House District 13 have picked incumbent Patricia Roybal Caballero for six consecutive terms, but longtime public housing expert Matthew Archuleta hopes his focus on affordable housing solutions can sway voters in the June 2 Democratic primary. The district includes much of southwestern Albuquerque’s historic Hispanic neighborhoods and newer neighborhoods built in the 1990s, along with a little commercial development. Both candidates noted the Southwest Mesa neighborhoods had a high rate of foreclosures during the 2008 housing crisis and that affordable housing remains a top priority in the area.SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The winner of the Democratic primary as of now does not face a general election opponent in November (deadlines to register as an Independent, minor party or write-in candidate follow the primary election). Source NM posed several questions to both candidates about their races. Their answers have been edited for clarity and concision. Matthew Archuleta Matthew Archuleta, 65, has been the on-site manager of government housing at the Albuquerque Housing Authority for the past 12 years. Born and raised in Albuquerque, he served one term on the Albuquerque Public School Board from 1999-2003, and ran unsuccessfully for District 13 in 2010, losing the primary election. He said he didn’t have specific criticisms of the incumbent, but that he was driven to run to address homelessness, bolster housing and fund more support for mental health treatments. “I feel like we just need to listen and and we need to do what’s right for people, and that’s what I’m all about: doing what’s right for people and for our community,” he said. What is the most important issue facing District 13? Infrastructure and services. That can encompass a lot, like completing the new community center, which they started building 10 years ago. Building a southwest Safety Center, a possible multi-generational center for the senior population. Some of the roads are original, so they need some work and additional street lighting. What is the most important issue facing New Mexico? I don’t see that there’s one. Economic development can churn a lot of things. When you have jobs, you have less homelessness. The other major issues are mental illness and behavioral health that we are just not addressing. That leads to bigger problems such as child welfare or exacerbates problems in the education system. Our kids are important to us, and I don’t feel like we’re really doing enough to support our young population here in this state. What legislation would you introduce if elected? The first bill I’d really like to take a look at is offering better support to those that are suffering from mental illness. I’d work with people in the therapeutic field, people that need the assistance and advocates because if anybody’s tried to work through the mental illness system or the behavioral health system, it’s difficult. What committee is your top choice for service? Any committee that would have a housing element. I’ve been working in affordable housing for probably more than half my life and I see the need for more programs. The federal government is proposing to cut a lot of affordable housing. What is your strongest skill that makes you the best candidate for voters? My ability to talk to people, listen and then get to work on how we meet the needs of people. Do you support paying lawmakers? I’ll tell you why I do. Am I doing this to get paid? No. I’m doing this to give back to my community. I would have liked to have done this 20 years ago, but I couldn’t and I was employed by places that didn’t allow for that much time out. I feel like you miss out on the common voice of the people because the common voice of the people has to go to work. They have families to take care of and in this economy, it takes both parents working. Patricia Roybal Caballero First elected to office in 2012, Roybal Caballero calls herself a “seasoned legislator,” who also has more than four decades of labor organizing and worked as an economic developer for nonprofits in Texas, New Jersey and New Mexico. Born in El Paso, her childhood was often spent in Las Cruces, where her family was from. Roybal Caballero said her drive to seek reelection is pushing the state on the Yazzie/Martinez education equity lawsuit, saying that that issue, along with affordability and climate, are the most pressing issues for young New Mexicans. “I think we still have some work to do,” Roybal Caballero said. “We have more oversight to do in terms of our Public Education Department and how well they are responding to the court’s orders. We have to determine whether, in fact, they are transforming our education, not just instituting a reform here or there.” What is the most important issue facing District 13? I think the most pressing issue has always been affordability, simply because my area is comprised of the working poor. My constituents work very hard, sometimes two and three jobs. Inflation has just driven everything up higher, of course. Our families are struggling even more just to pay their rent, mortgage, utilities, food, cars, gas, all of which are just basic for everyday living. What is the most important issue facing New Mexico? Our state is facing a lot of deregulation right now. That affects New Mexico’s cherished lands, which have ancestral meaning, they are part of our traditions. The concern for how we are going to protect our planet, our water, our clean air has been predominant in my district. We’re seeing so many climate changes, all being affected by global warming and by the human hand. That causes a lot of concern because our decision-making requires that we’re planning for the future, not deciding for today.  We’re deciding for tomorrow so that our children have a world to live in, a country to live in, a state that they can thrive in without fear. What legislation would you introduce if you are reelected? I have been the sponsor of raising the minimum wage for several years. Enacting a living wage which would raise according to the cost of living index every year is paramount to easing the burdens of our hardworking families. We want people to have a little bit of disposable income to treat their families. It also will give them a better quality of life because they wouldn’t have to work two or three jobs just to make ends meet. What committee is your top choice for service? I hope I have earned reappointment as the chair of House Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs because of my background as a UFW organizer, United Steelworker organizer, AFSCME organizer, AFT, the grad workers unions — I believe I’ve had a positive impact as not just as a chair, but as a strong advocate for labor in our state and in our nation. What is your strongest skill that makes you the best candidate for voters? Having been reelected for several terms now, I’d have to say it is my organizing skills, my ability to mobilize. I’ve proven I’m accomplished and experienced as a legislator. I have stayed true to bringing honesty, transparency, accountability, as an elected official. I have the skill set to hear constituents, talk to them, walk with them and translate that all into positive action. Do you support paying lawmakers? I would lack a lot of integrity if I did not support and value work. This is work, hard work. So, yes, we should pay our Legislature. Absolutely. Courtesy of Source New Mexico
	The best US cities for recent college graduates The best US cities for recent college graduatesThe tassels are turned, the diplomas are framed, and next comes the big question: Where should recent college graduates plant roots? Redfin and Glassdoor looked across the U.S. to reveal which cities offer the best mix of career opportunity, housing affordability, and work-life balance for young professionals.The survey examined Redfin data on property sales, and Glassdoor data on employer reviews, salary reviews, and job listings. Redfin and Glassdoor ranked places based on 13 indicators across housing affordability, career opportunity, and urban quality of life. From higher starting salaries to affordable starter homes, some cities give young people a serious leg up. Here, Redfin and Glassdoor list the 30 best places to live and launch a career, with 10 cities highlighted in each population category: big, mid-sized, and small. Redfin Real Estate Top 10 big US cities for recent college graduates1. Washington, D.C.Average annual early-career earnings: $79,857Price of typical starter home: $320,000Years to save for down payment: 4 years, 2 monthsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 31.6%Monthly rent as % of income: 34%The nation’s capital ranks as the best big city for recent college grads because it has a robust entry-level job market, strong starting salaries, and a diverse range of employers. And while housing isn’t exactly cheap, it’s more affordable than many other big coastal cities.The top sector for early-career workers is tech, but D.C. also offers plenty of junior jobs in government and government-adjacent organizations, like think tanks, defense contractors, consultants, and law firms. D.C. has 19 job postings per 100 workers, the most of any big U.S. city. The city also attracts a lot of doctors, and a lot of international students stay in the area to work in finance at a place like the IMF or the World Bank.But it’s not all work, all the time: The U.S. capital is also one of the cultural centers of the U.S., offering not only unique landmarks, but a thriving food and drinks scene at places like The Wharf and Union Market.2. Omaha, NebraskaAverage early-career earnings: $59,123Price of typical starter home: $195,000Years to save for down payment: 3 years, 8 monthsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 26%Monthly rent as % of income: 28%What sets Omaha apart from the rest of the country is its affordability and job variety. A starter home in Omaha costs less than $200,000, which is affordable to someone earning the typical entry-level salary of around $59,000. And while the most popular career path for recent grads in the Nebraska town is healthcare, it's also home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Berkshire Hathaway, Union Pacific, and Mutual of Omaha. These jobs often pay well and can give young grads a real shot of purchasing a house.Not only do college grads report enjoying their jobs, but they also report strong work-life balance—especially for those immersed in the city’s thriving music and brewery scene. Add in high-quality colleges and universities, and grads can go from college to work without leaving town.3. Boston, MassachusettsAverage early-career earnings: $80,026Price of typical starter home: $460,000Years to save for down payment: 6 years, 8 monthsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 45.3%Monthly rent as % of income: 53%The typical recent grad in Boston earns $80,000 per year, the highest average starting salary of all the cities in this top 10 list. The city’s most popular sector for recent grads is tech, though it’s also home to a lot of jobs in biotech, healthcare, education and research. Boston is also a work-life winner, with twenty-somethings working hard by day and catching a game at Fenway Park or meeting friends at a beer garden at night.Additionally, because there are so many top-tier universities nearby—e.g., Harvard, MIT, Boston College—a lot of major employers have offices in Boston to attract new grads and keep them in the city. A strong startup culture in biotech, finance, and software also offers well-paying jobs, enticing both local grads and cross-country transplants. High housing costs may turn off some people, though.4. Dallas, TexasAverage early-career earnings: $67,451Price of typical starter home: $240,000Years to save for down payment: 4 years, 1 monthMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 28%Monthly rent as % of income: 26%Dallas is home to 24 Fortune 500 company headquarters, including American Airlines, AT&T and Toyota, offering abundant entry-level jobs. The Texas city is known for legendary barbecue spots and live music, which is perfect for young professionals unwinding after a long week of work.Dallas is unique because it’s well-rounded; it is relatively affordable, fairly high-paying for early-career workers, and there is plenty to do for young professionals. The typical resident can comfortably afford a median-priced rental, and only needs to save for four years to afford a down payment.5. Chicago, IllinoisAverage early-career earnings: $72,786Price of typical starter home: $202,000Years to save for down payment: 3 yearsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 21.9%Monthly rent as % of income: 28%Chicago has a plethora of jobs for early-career workers, from finance to tech to working corporate jobs for companies like McDonald’s or United Airlines. And with the L train system and hundreds of miles of interconnected bike lanes, getting around without a car is both easy and convenient. Relatively high early-career earnings and low starter home prices mean a recent grad can afford to purchase a down payment in just three years.Beyond the economy, Chicago is home to iconic attractions like Wrigley Field and Navy Pier, along with countless comedy clubs, deep-dish pizza spots, and neighborhood bars.6. Houston, TexasAverage early-career earnings: $65,369Price of typical starter home: $215,000Years to save for down payment: 3 years, 7 monthsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 25.9%Monthly rent as % of income: 18%Everything’s bigger in Texas—especially the number of job opportunities. Houston has a mix of industries, from aerospace engineering at NASA to healthcare at the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest medical facility. It’s also known for vibrant nightlife, including live music venues and food halls.However, one thing that isn’t bigger is the prices. The typical monthly rent costs residents less than 20% of their monthly income, and a $65,000 entry-level salary can comfortably support a solid quality of life for a young professional.7. St. Louis, MissouriAverage early-career earnings: $61,834Price of typical starter home: $150,000Years to save for down payment: 2 years, 7 monthsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 19.1%Monthly rent as % of income: 23%Not only does St. Louis have a lower cost of living than coastal cities, but it’s also home to a variety of entry-level jobs. The most popular industry is healthcare, and there are also opportunities in finance, tech, and engineering, among other industries. Twenty-somethings can enjoy free attractions like the City Museum and Gateway Arch, along with world-class museums and dining.For new grads looking to settle down, starter homes in St. Louis are among the most affordable in the country and require less than three years of saving to afford a down payment.8. San Diego, CaliforniaAverage early-career earnings: $74,053Price of typical starter home: $615,000Years to save for down payment: More than 10 yearsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 65.4%Monthly rent as % of income: 64%When San Diegans aren’t working, they’re at the beach: riding bikes along the coastline, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, or simply sunbathing. But don’t let the city’s laid-back vibes fool you: It’s one of the country’s biggest biotech hubs, and it’s also home to many entry-level positions in industries like healthcare and gaming.Living in San Diego is worth it for those who can swing the higher housing costs. Starting salaries are among the highest on this list, but affording a home will likely require savings or additional income.9. Miami, FloridaAverage early-career earnings: $62,748Price of typical starter home: $210,000Years to save for down payment: 3 years, 11 monthsMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 26.4%Monthly rent as % of income: 33%Miami thrives on its diverse economy and career growth potential. Whether grads want to work in retail, wholesale, construction, real estate, tourism, aviation, healthcare, or any of Miami’s many industries, the city has entry-level jobs for everyone. Add Miami’s white-sand beaches, turquoise water and endless nightlife, and the South Florida city is a twenty-something’s dream.10. Austin, TexasAverage early-career earnings: $72,025Price of typical starter home: $276,600Years to save for down payment: 4 years, 1 monthMonthly mortgage payment as % of income: 30.3%Monthly rent as % of income: 35%The “Live Music Capital of the World” is home to music venues and festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits. Places like Barton Springs Pool and Lady Bird Lake also make it a paradise for water lovers—especially popular during the long and hot summers. Industries like healthcare, tech, and education offer many entry-level jobs, and Austin’s slow and increasingly affordable housing market makes it a good time for young buyers to break in.Top 10 mid-sized U.S. cities for recent college graduates Redfin Real Estate Top 10 small US cities for recent college graduates Redfin Real Estate MethodologyThis report is based on a Redfin-Glassdoor ranking of the best U.S. metro areas (“cities”) for recent college graduates. Redfin and Glassdoor ranked places based on 13 indicators across housing affordability, career opportunity, and urban quality of life. Indicators were normalized and averaged within those three broad categories. Overall rankings are based on the weighted sum of ranks across the factors. Here are more details on each broad category:Housing affordabilityStarter home availability: Starter homes sold per 1,000 residentsOwnership cost: Early-career income divided by median starter home priceOwnership cost trend: Early career earnings growth minus starter home price growthRent-to-income ratio: Average monthly condo/co-op cost, divided by monthly early-career salaryCareer opportunityEarly-career income: Typical income of early-career workersEconomic diversity: Concentration of early-career workers in particular sectorsOverall job satisfaction: Average employer ratings from early-career workersCareer opportunity satisfaction: Average career opportunity rating from early-career workersJob availability: Number of distinct job postings per 100 workersPost-pandemic job availability trend: Five-year trend in job posting volumeUrban Quality of LifeWork-life balance ratings: Average work-life balance of early-career workersNavigability: Median Walk Score, median Transit ScoreMetrics were calculated using 563,000 Glassdoor salary reviews collected in 2025 from early-career workers, 662,000 Glassdoor employer reviews collected from early-career workers between 2023 and 2025, over 22 million job postings on Glassdoor from 2025, and over 2.5 million 2025 property sales from Redfin.Metrics were calculated for all available metropolitan areas. A metro was excluded if four or more indicators were missing.This story was produced by Redfin Real Estate and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Americans are embracing self-gifting fine jewelry Americans are embracing self-gifting fine jewelryOnce a luxury reserved for special gifts or romantic moments, fine jewelry is becoming a frequent self-purchase, expressing confidence and a way to reward ourselves. From diamond necklaces marking a promotion to solid gold rings that make a bold statement, Americans are redefining what jewelry symbolizes and who they buy it for.BriteCo’s recent survey found that 80% of Americans aged 18 and above buy fine jewelry for themselves rather than waiting for someone else to gift it to them. This shift embraces the “treat yourself” mentality, as we choose pieces that honor our individuality and remind us we’re worth investing in.Some pieces commemorate meaningful milestones, while others are chosen purely for their timeless craftsmanship. Learning how to buy jewelry that fits your personal style and values is a major part of this empowering journey. Read on to discover more highlights from the survey, conducted in October 2025 among 1,002 respondents, about how and why Americans are embracing self-purchasing of fine jewelry.Key TakeawaysFour in five American adults are buying fine jewelry for themselves.Millennials aged 30-44 are driving the self-purchase trend; 86% of respondents in this age group have purchased fine jewelry for themselves.The top motivations for self-purchasing were to enhance personal style (22%) and celebrate a milestone (22%).Rings were reported as the most meaningful piece of jewelry worth investing in across all age groups, except for Gen Z, with 35% favoring necklaces.The Rise of Self-Purchased Fine JewelryBuying fine jewelry is a personal reward for many consumers and an empowering reminder that you don’t need an occasion or anyone’s permission to shine. While this survey found that a vast majority of Americans (80%) are buying fine jewelry for themselves, a closer look reveals that millennials are leading the self-purchase trend, with 86% of those aged 30-44 buying jewelry for themselves.Millennials are followed by Gen X, with 81% of those aged 45-60 self-purchasing fine jewelry. The reasoning for this can be attributed to the fact that both millennials and Gen X are in their prime earning years and have more disposable income than younger Gen Z buyers and older Baby Boomers. For Millennials and Gen X, jewelry is more than just an accessory; nearly a quarter of both say it’s a reflection of personal milestones, achievements, and good taste.A carefully chosen piece can serve as a lasting reminder of personal milestones while also retaining its value over time, reflecting the growing recognition that fine jewelry is a good investment. Unlike fast-changing fashion trends, fine jewelry pieces can be a meaningful treat today that appreciates into a treasured heirloom tomorrow. BriteCo The Generational Spending DivideBriteCo’s survey found that the amount people are willing to spend on jewelry for themselves varies according to different generations. Generational attitudes reveal striking differences in spending habits; some prioritize affordability, while others are more willing to splurge on meaningful pieces.Gen Z and Baby Boomers are more cost-conscious, with over one-third of respondents in each group willing to spend less than $500 on fine jewelry for themselves. Affordability and accessibility are key, as both generations juggle financial responsibilities, social expectations, and personal priorities when choosing which pieces to invest in.Millennials and Gen X are more likely to splurge, with millennials standing out as the generation willing to spend the most. Nearly 1 in 5 say they’d invest between $2,500 and $5,000 on a single piece, and an additional 8% are willing to spend over $5,000. Gen X follows closely behind in terms of spending, suggesting that these groups view fine jewelry as a luxury item and a reflection of success. BriteCo Personal Style and Celebrations Drive Self-Purchases More Than InvestmentAmerican jewelry purchasers typically favor emotional expressions over financial motivation when buying jewelry for themselves. The top reasons given for fine jewelry self-purchases were:Enhancing personal style and fashion: 22%Celebrating a milestone: 22%Owning a valuable piece as a financial investment: 14%Self-purchases are seen as less about building wealth and more about self-expression and commemorating special moments. Fine jewelry is an extension of who we are, telling a story, enhancing personal style, and serving as a reminder of accomplishments. BriteCo Gone are the days of needing a physical token of love from somebody else. By embracing self-purchasing, people are redefining luxury, demonstrating that fine jewelry can be a gift to oneself, and challenging the traditional ideas of who deserves luxury items and why.Justifications Behind Self-PurchasingAs 17% of our respondents shared, you don’t always need a reason to purchase fine jewelry for yourself. Even so, self-purchasers often frame their decisions around life achievements or self-appreciation rather than pure indulgence.The top reasons for a fine jewelry self-purchase include:Marking a milestone or achievement: 22%Feeling they are deserving of a reward: 19%Viewing it as a long-term investment: 17%Buying what they like without justifying it: 17%Jewelry Investments Depend On Generational Differences BriteCo What counts as a meaningful self-purchase often depends on the generation. That being said, for most Americans (31%), rings take the top spot, followed by necklaces (22%) and watches (17%).Gen Z, however, is the generation with the most unique fine jewelry preferences. Among respondents aged 18-29, a majority (35%) said necklaces are the most meaningful fine jewelry they’d buy themselves ahead of rings (17%) and watches (16%).This shift reflects evolving generational tastes and highlights current aesthetics for trending jewelry, such as layering pieces and celebrating what makes you unique. Whether choosing a classic diamond ring or a bold statement necklace, each generation defines what’s meaningful and “worth it” in their own way.This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Tuesday, April 28th, 2026

Monday, April 27th, 2026