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

Friday, July 31st, 2026
	Possible explosive device found in Warren Co. home, Sheriff says Officers in Warren County searched a home Friday afternoon after finding a possible homemade explosive device.
	Local law enforcement looking for three QC children Three children are reported missing in the Quad Cities Friday night.
	Downtown Davenport quiet zones move closer as rail crossing upgrades near completion Davenport has nearly finished upgrades needed for downtown railroad quiet zones, but final approval still rests with federal regulators.
	Mercer County Superintendent found not guilty on all charges Superintendent Timothy Farquer was found not guilty on eight charges alleging he illegally accessed students’ medical files.
	Downtown Davenport quiet zones move closer Davenport has nearly finished upgrades needed for downtown railroad quiet zones, but final approval still rests with federal regulators.
	Special Weather Statement until FRI 7:30 PM CDT Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Causing Minor Flooding in Parts of Iowa and Illinois
	Scott County law enforcement searching for missing teen The Scott County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance locating 14-year-old Ellyzabeth Bristol.
	Davenport former 'Love After Lockup' cast member sentenced to 15 years in prison A Davenport woman, who appeared on “Love After Lockup,” was sentenced to a 15-year prison term as a habitual offender on fraud and theft convictions.
	Missing teen reported out of Scott County The Scott County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance locating 14-year-old Ellyzabeth Bristol.
	Prosecutors move to dismiss Reflecting Pool vandalism case, saying 'botched installation' to blame The government had accused David Hearn of ripping a piece of sealant after a $14 million renovation. Hearn has repeatedly said that he simply touched the water in the pool out of curiosity last month.
	Two former attorneys who oversaw Iowa’s Medicaid fraud enforcement say Gov. Kim Reynolds’ newly created Medicaid Fraud Elimination Task Force is unnecessary and a misuse of resources. Two former attorneys who oversaw Iowa’s Medicaid fraud enforcement say Gov. Kim Reynolds’ newly created Medicaid Fraud Elimination Task Force is unnecessary and a misuse of resources.
	Damarian Jones to argue self-defense in Iowa City pedestrian mall shooting Jones is accused of shooting 5, just off the University of Iowa's campus.
	A wet end to July with a wet start to August After a fairly dry July, we are ending things off with some much-needed rain in the Quad Cities on this Friday. We have already received an inch of rain from this morning's showers but could see more from a second round of showers and storms for later tonight. These storms are looking to continue through [...]
	Special Weather Statement until FRI 6:30 PM CDT Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Impacting Western Counties Until 6:30 PM CDT
	Cyclospora cases rise across Iowa The number of cyclospora cases continue to climb across Iowa, with health officials now reporting more than 200 confirmed infections across 48 counties. Officials are reminding residents to watch for symptoms and follow safe food handling practices.
	Mercer County Schools superintendent acquitted in student medical records case The judge acquitted Timothy Farquer after ruling that the prosecution failed to present enough evidence in the case.
	Bix Jazz Festival continues at Rhythm City Casino The Chicago Cellar Boys are set to take the stage on Friday night.
	UAW responds after Deere rejects contract counteroffer The UAW is pushing back after John Deere rejected the union's counteroffer on a proposed contract extension.
	Roger Craig’s longtime teammate, friend to present at Hall of Fame enshrinement When Roger Craig is enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on August 8th, his longtime teammate Jamie Williams will serve as his presenter, putting the gold jacket onto Craig.
	Crews respond to Geneseo pole barn building fire The Colona Fire Department responded to a structure fire on the 7200 block of North 2200th Avenue Thursday evening.
	Illinois bill to protect children online Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill designed to protect children online and limit their access to addictive social media algorithms. Illinois' Children’s Social Media Safety Act (House Bill 5511) requires social media companies to verify a child's age on its operating system and use stricter features for minors, like limiting location-sharing and nighttime notifications. Supporters [...]
	ACLU of Iowa concerned about poor oversight of school resource officers The ACLU of Iowa reports poor oversight of school resource officers is a growing concern, warning they may do more harm than good for some students. The nonprofit highlighted racial disparities across some Iowa school districts, including here in the QCA, due to poor oversight of school resource officers. The ACLU claims Black students and [...]
	KWQC, Davenport Schools Foundation team up for school-supplies drive Donors can easily drop off high-demand school supplies from their cars on Aug. 7 at the Brady Street studio to help Davenport students in need.
	Death Notice: Timothy Reickard A memorial service for Timothy Martin Reickard, 81, of Eldridge, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at Eldridge United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. Mr. Reickard died Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City. Memorials may be made to the Ronald McDonald House in Chicago, or to Eldridge United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com. A full obituary will appear in the Aug. 5 edition of The NSP.
	Arconic matching donations to Hog Capital Wildlife Rescue Arconic encourages the community to help support Hog Capital Wildlife Rescue and Rehab during the final week of a special matching gift campaign. Arconic has pledged to match donations made to Hog Capital Wildlife Rescue and Rehab dollar-for-dollar, up to $5,000. So far, $1,635 in donations have been received, with thousands of dollars in matching [...]
	4 Your Money \| The Warning Light Wall Street analysts are closely monitoring a range of economic indicators that have historically served as early warning signs of a recession. David Nelson, CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management, explains the Treasury Yield Curve and why he thinks it is an indicator that investors should watch carefully.
	ACLU calls for ending school resource officers in Iowa Bettendorf has two police officers assigned to its schools — primarily stationed at Bettendorf High School and Bettendorf Middle School.
	Bettendorf district cited in new Iowa study of school resource officers A new study of school resource officers by the ACLU of Iowa shows there are problems with their presence, and Bettendorf is one district that shows racial disparities in student arrests and referrals.
	Mercer County School District superintendent acquitted of charges in student medical records case The judge acquitted Timothy Farquer after ruling that the prosecution failed to present enough evidence in the case.
	First Army hosting relinquishment of command, retirement ceremonies for Lt. Gen. Mark Landes First Army is hosting two military ceremonies next week outside Quarters One in honor of its departing commanding general. First Army is saying farewell to Commanding General Lt. Gen. Mark H. Landes during a relinquishment of command ceremony on August 7 at 9 a.m. Landes has led First Army since September 2024. He has served [...]
	Google adds AI to satellite images, raising fears of deepfakes in the sky Journalists, human rights advocates and open source analysts recoiled in horror at the move: "The opportunities for abuse and disinfo are literally boundless," said one.
	Google pauses AI satellite images, after fears of deepfakes in the sky Journalists, human rights advocates and open source analysts recoiled in horror at the initial decision: "The opportunities for abuse and disinfo are literally boundless," said one.
	Foldable synthetic molecules could infiltrate and bust apart the toxic protein clumps causing Parkinson’s Current therapies for Parkinson’s disease and related conditions primarily treat symptoms but don’t stop the underlying process causing the disease. Increasing evidence suggests that toxic clumps of proteins called alpha-synuclein are among the primary drivers of damage to neurons. My team and I developed a synthetic molecule that can block these proteins from clumping and spreading in the brains of mice, ultimately reducing symptoms of disease. This molecule, called SK-129, acts like a molecular brace: It binds to several parts of alpha-synuclein and holds the protein in a shape that makes it less likely to stick to other ones. It binds especially strongly to early forms of these toxic clumps, preventing them from growing and forming new ones. Why it matters Beyond SK-129, our research highlights the broader potential of the class of molecules to which it belongs: foldamers. Foldamers are laboratory-designed molecules that fold into predictable shapes, much like natural proteins. Because they’re so stable, scientists can tailor them to recognize and bind to specific biological targets. Alpha-synuclein make up the Lewy bodies (darker spots) that form in neurons in Parkinson’s. Suraj Rajan/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA This versatility is particularly important, because many proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases have long been considered “undruggable.” Unlike other disease proteins with pockets that conventional drugs can bind to, proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases, such as alpha-synuclein, are highly flexible and lack well-defined binding sites. Synthetic foldamers offer larger surfaces that can engage these difficult targets and disrupt the abnormal protein interactions that lead to toxic aggregation. Foldamers could open new treatment avenues not only for Parkinson’s disease, but also for other neurodegenerative disorders driven by toxic protein aggregation, including Alzheimer’s disease and ALS. What still isn’t known Although SK-129 showed strong promise in its ability to target Parkinson’s in cell and animal models, we have yet to test its effectiveness in people. Important questions remain regarding its long-term safety, optimal dosing and how it travels through and interacts with the human body. Additional studies are needed to understand how the molecule works and how to further optimize it to stop or slow Parkinson’s disease from worsening in people. More broadly, researchers are still working to fully understand how different forms of alpha-synuclein drive neurodegeneration and disease spread. My team is also investigating how selectively targeting these toxic protein clumps influences their spread, inflammation in the nervous system and brain cell survival across different brain regions. Researchers are looking for ways to stop toxic clumps of protein from forming in the brain. What other research is being done Researchers are actively developing other therapies that target the toxic alpha-synuclein clumps that cause Parkinson’s and related diseases. These approaches include molecules designed to clear these protein clumps or reduce their production, as well as molecules that can stop them from aggregating. Several of these strategies have advanced into clinical trials. Each major approach to treatment has important limitations. Some struggle to selectively bind to the toxic proteins, while others are unable to penetrate the brain. Through the collaboration of neuroscientists, biophysicists, clinicians and translational researchers, researchers like me hope to develop new ways to treat diseases that conventional drugs haven’t been able to before. The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Sunil Kumar, University of Denver Read more: Breakthrough drug nearly doubles survival with advanced pancreatic cancer – an oncologist explains how daraxonrasib overcame an ‘undruggable’ disease Harnessing the brain’s immune cells to stave off Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases Alzheimer’s disease is partly genetic − studying the genes that delay decline in some may lead to treatments for all Sunil Kumar does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Gov. Pritzker expands protections for those with disabilities, mental illness Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation to strengthen protections for older adults, children, people with disabilities and individuals living with serious mental illness in Illinois. According to a release, legislation included the following: “Every Illinoisan deserves the opportunity to thrive," Pritzker said. "These new laws strengthen protections for children, older adults and people with disabilities by helping [...]
	Judge acquits Mercer Co. superintendent A judge acquitted Mercer County Superintendent Timothy Farquer of all charges midway through his bench trial on student medical records allegations.
	Mississippi Valley Fair prepares for opening day Crews are making final preparations for the Mississippi Valley Fair as organizers unveil what's new this year and hope to keep fairgoers coming back.
	Verdict reached in Mercer County School District superintendent student records case A verdict has been reached on the second day of the trial of the superintendent of the Mercer County School District who was accused, along with two others, of illegally accessing student records. Our Quad Cities News had a crew in the courtroom this morning when Timothy Farquer, now 54, was acquitted of all eight [...]
	Railroad Heritage of Midwest America hosting Liberty Rocket fundraiser trips Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (RRHMA) and the Iowa Interstate Railroad are hosting RRHMA-Silvis’s patriotic themed fundraiser trip, “The Liberty Rocket” on September 26 and 27. Passengers can ride in classic vintage streamliner coaches powered by the world’s largest diesel locomotive, the Union Pacific DDA40X #6936 on a scenic rail adventure across parts of Iowa [...]
	Lifted Energy, in Silvis, ribbon cutting announced The City of Silvis is hosting a ribbon cutting for Lifted Energy on Saturday, Aug. 8.
	No injuries reported in rural Geneseo barn fire Thursday Colona Fire Department responded to a pole barn fire on Thursday, July 30.
	Leaving vehicle engines idling is unhealthy, expensive – and often illegal A bus company that left its buses’ engines running while parked in Boston neighborhoods has settled a lawsuit by agreeing to pay US$5.6 million in damages for the resulting air pollution. The settlement came in a citizen-enforcement lawsuit under the Clean Air Act, which allows any person to sue alleged polluters for the harm done to human health and the environment. The case was based on a Massachusetts law that limits vehicle idling to no more than five minutes. Like nearly all cities around the world, Boston has trouble keeping its air clean and safe, in part due to vehicle emissions. Those emissions contributed to nearly 42,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2024, or more than four people every hour. But the law, and the legal case against the bus company, didn’t target all vehicles. Rather, they were aimed at the easier target of idling vehicles – those whose engines are running for no real reason except that someone didn’t bother to turn them off. Reducing air pollution Many states, including Massachusetts, have laws regulating vehicle emissions, in part because vehicles are responsible for significant amounts of different types of air pollution. Managing environmental pollutants is an increasingly complex practice, with new sources and pollutant types emerging all the time. It is a critical profession I have long worked to train people for. Air pollution in particular is a pernicious problem in the U.S. and globally because of its diffuse and transitory nature. And, as some research colleagues and I recently demonstrated, while air pollution is mostly regulated at the state level, almost half of all air pollution-related deaths are from pollution produced in neighboring states – including vehicle-generated pollution. When vehicles idle, the pollution they emit builds up nearby. There really is no safe level of vehicle-generated air pollution that people can be exposed to. Even infrequent exposure to high levels of air pollution increases people’s risk of cardiovascular damage. Vehicle emissions can cause lung damage and worsen respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, and have been linked to heart disease, cancer and premature death. Idling of vehicles with engines that burn fossil fuels also emits climate-warming greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, though climate concerns are not the primary target of anti-idling laws. A sign near a New York City playground reminds drivers to turn off their engines when parked to reduce air pollution. Deb Cohn-Orbach/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images via The Conversation Why idle? Idling a vehicle does not help an engine last longer than turning it off and on frequently. And research has found that after about 10 seconds, any savings from idling – rather than turning off a vehicle – are surpassed by the cost of the fuel burned. Some vehicles, like those that run onboard refrigeration systems to keep cargo cool, may need their engines to run even when they are parked. But most often, drivers let their vehicles idle for convenience, like keeping the air conditioning on while waiting for passengers to board. While idling is intermittent and usually of short duration, estimates of the cumulative effect are staggering. Idling in the United States uses more than 6 billion gallons of fuel at an estimated cost of more than US$20 billion to consumers and businesses each year. About half of that is attributable to personal vehicles. Some vehicles have systems that reduce their air pollution when idling. Rick Loomis/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images via The Conversation Effects of laws against idling In short, anti-idling laws target potentially severe pollution health risks from what is generally a wasteful practice of convenience. The effects of idling reduction laws are hard to estimate, in part because the pollution from idling is diffuse and intermittent. Complicating estimates, but improving the overall picture, is new technology such as onboard automatic start-stop systems in modern vehicles. The U.S. Department of Energy estimated that the combination of technology and idling policies provided savings of the equivalent of 60 million gallons of gasoline in the U.S. in 2024, though that only translates into less than a 1% reduction in all transport-related air pollution emissions. While there are limited studies and corresponding data to draw upon, what does exist suggests enforcement rates are generally low, and they rely on volunteer compliance and public relations programs, which deliver mixed results in actually reducing idling. For example, in Chicago, which has had a citywide anti-idling ordinance since 2009, only about 800 citations have been issued in the past 15 years. That said, a combined effort of a law, alongside public-awareness campaigns highlighting the economic and health benefits of simply turning off your engine, does seem to produce better results than a law alone. New York City has tried to get citizens involved in enforcement by giving people who report an illegally idling vehicle one-quarter of the fine assessed. Citizen reports were responsible for more than 90% of the city’s enforcement actions by 2023, raising rates from 455 violation reports in 2017 to more than 80,000 by 2023. However, a group of bus companies filed a federal lawsuit in May 2026 alleging that the law and the citizen-enforcement program violate the U.S. Constitution by impeding interstate commerce and conflicting with federal safety regulations that require buses to maintain safe interior temperatures and keep accessibility equipment running. The bottom line is that keeping your vehicle running when it’s not moving wastes gas and pollutes the air. Even if it’s not illegal where you are, it’s worth being aware of – and stopping if you can. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Richard Marcantonio, University of Notre Dame Read more: What air pollution does to the human body EPA removal of vehicle emissions limits won’t stop the shift to electric vehicles, but will make it harder, slower and more expensive Replacing gas stoves with electric stoves greatly reduces asthma symptoms Richard Marcantonio does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Heavy rainfall, scattered storms forecast to bring 2-3 inches of rain to the Quad-Cities Heavy rainfall rates of 1 inch per hour are possible from thunderstorms.
	Proposed Coal Valley sports complex clears first zoning hurdle Coal Valley's Zoning Board recommends the piece of land at Route 6 and Niabi Zoo Road be rezoned from residential to commercial, but some neighbors aren't happy.
	Quad-Cities reality star gets 15 years for forgery, theft "Love After Lockup" star Latisha Collier has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after using a client's identity to lease a home in LeClaire.
	6 biggest summer liability risks for small businesses (and how to protect against them) 6 biggest summer liability risks for small businesses (and how to protect against them)Summer weather can mean more time outdoors, more events, hot weather and holidays. And for many small business owners, it can also mean more customers ready to spend. If you’re a contractor, food truck owner, event vendor or mobile service provider, May through September might be your busiest season. And also a time of year packed with hidden perils you need to plan for, ERGO NEXT Insurance reports.If you find yourself working at crowded, unfamiliar venues, bringing on seasonal help or packing your schedule tighter than usual over long, hot days the risk of customer injuries or property damage can start to climb.The good news is many of these risks are predictable — and often preventable. Here’s our list of six of the most common summer liability risks that could affect small business owners, and practical ways to combat problems before they start.1. Customer slips, trips and falls in temporary workspacesSummer often means working in venues that aren’t designed for your business. Food trucks might serve in unfamiliar lots. Farmers market vendors set up on grass, gravel or uneven pavement. Mobile service providers might work in customers’ driveways and backyards. And contractors and cleaners are always on the move between job sites — and often more in demand during dry weather and holiday schedules. Every new location comes with hazards that are easy to overlook or workaround when you’re focused on working and serving customers.Picture this: You’re setting up your food booth for a community festival. Customers start arriving while you’re still laying out extension cords and moving equipment. Someone trips at your booth and suffers an injury that requires medical care — then asks you to cover their medical bills. It’s the kind of thing that can happen in a matter of seconds.How could this have been prevented? During setup, take a few minutes to:Secure or cover extension cords and hoses that cross walkways.Check that all signs and displays are secured.Keep tools, equipment and boxes out of the way.Mark any uneven ground or trip hazards with cones or signs.If someone is injured and your business is found responsible, general liability insurance could help cover third-party medical expenses, legal defense costs and even settlements. This is a big reason why many event organizers require (and business owners choose to carry) this type of coverage.2. Hot weather can increase mistakes — and accidentsExtreme heat doesn’t just make outdoor work harder. According to the CDC, heat stress can cause physical responses (headaches, dizziness), confusion and impaired judgment, making mistakes and accidents more likely. That matters even more this summer, as record-breaking temperatures and rising heat across parts of the U.S. are putting outdoor workers under added strain.Think about how that can play out on a busy workday. A contractor rushes to finish while carrying materials and accidentally damages a customer’s property. Or a catering employee spills hot liquid on a guest or someone else’s property after working through a long afternoon.A few summer workplace safety adjustments may help reduce some risks:Knock out the most strenuous jobs early in the day when temperatures are somewhat lower.Set mandatory breaks for water and cooldown time, especially on longer jobs.Rotate assignments so one person isn’t stuck in the sun all day.If a heat-related mistake leads to someone else’s injury or property damage, general liability insurance may help. But if an employee becomes ill or injured, workers’ compensation insurance could help with covered work-related injuries or illnesses.3. Rushed training can lead to costly mistakesThe National Restaurant Association projects restaurants alone will add about 450,000 seasonal jobs this summer, and contractors, retailers, event vendors and landscapers also tend to bring on extra summer help.When business picks up, it’s tempting to get new hires working right away. But the reality is that most small business owners need help ASAP and they might not leave enough time to fully train their seasonal staff.A seasonal worker could be more likely to damage a customer’s property or miss a safety step — not from carelessness, but from rushed training or unclear expectations.Before new hires work on their own, take time to:Review safety procedures and expectations.Provide them with a reference document or training checklist.Pair them with experienced staff before they work alone.Encourage questions no matter how small they may seem.If a new employee makes a mistake on the job, it can lead to delays, unhappy customers or unexpected costs. More time upfront to train and support new hires can go a long way to help prevent liabilities and keep your busy season running smoothly.4. Property damage at customers’ homes or job sitesIn summer months when families are traveling more, they often want repair work or cleaning projects done while they’re away. But anytime you work on someone else’s property, it comes with risk, and small mistakes can get expensive fast.Property damage doesn’t just mean damage to a building or land — it can also include a customer’s belongings, like furniture or personal items that your business accidentally damages.For instance, a landscaper might break an underground sprinkler line. Or a house cleaner could stain a surface with the wrong cleaner or knock over an expensive vase while moving through a customer’s home or office.Before you start any job:Do a quick walk-through of the property to look for hazards.Snap a few photos of anything that’s already damaged.Ask the customer if there’s anything fragile you should know about.If something does go wrong, mention it to your client as soon as possible to show that you’re credible and responsible.If your business accidentally damages someone else’s property, general liability insurance could help with repair or replacement costs.5. More driving can mean more opportunities for accidentsSummer roads get crowded fast. AAA projects 61.4 million Americans travel by car over the Fourth of July holiday alone. Summer often means spending time behind the wheel driving in new places, whether you’re driving to customers’ homes, hauling equipment between job sites or setting up at craft fairs.It only takes a moment of distraction to back into another vendor’s trailer or clip a customer’s fence.A few habits worth building:Give yourself extra time to get to each job or event.Walk unfamiliar parking or loading areas before backing up.Use a spotter when maneuvering in tight spaces.Stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers, especially in crowded event areas or unfamiliar neighborhoods.If your business vehicle is involved in an accident, commercial auto insurance could help cover some damages and injuries you may cause. Even if you’re driving a personal vehicle, personal auto coverage may not cover work-related accidents.6. Don’t let a packed schedule lead to shortcutsWhen business is booming, it’s tempting to say yes to one more job or squeeze in one last appointment before the day ends — especially when days are longer.The problem is that rushing or cramming in a lot of work can turn small oversights into expensive mistakes. You might skip a property walk-through, forget to secure equipment or sideswipe signage as you’re making a tight turn. Rushing around can increase the risk of injuries, property damage or unhappy customers.As your schedule fills up, try to protect a little breathing room:Build in extra travel time into your day.Pad the space between appointments when you can.Hire more help as needed.Pause before packing up and double-check your work area.Make sure tools, cords or materials aren’t left behind where someone could get hurt.Take a moment to document the job before you leave.If you’re running behind, let customers know instead of rushing.Summer is meant to be your busiest season — not your most stressful. Leaving yourself a little breathing room can help you protect your customers, your reputation and your business.Quick guide: The biggest summer liability risks for small business ownersThe biggest summer liability risks usually come down to these six things:Accidents and injuriesWhy risk increases: Jobs and events in unfamiliar and temporary workspacesQuick prevention tip: Inspect every site before customers arriveHot weatherWhy risk increases: Fatigue and dehydration can affect judgmentQuick prevention tip: Schedule mandatory breaksSeasonal hiringWhy risk increases: Less training time for summer hiresQuick prevention tip: Use onboarding checklistsProperty damageWhy risk increases: More work in unfamiliar venuesQuick prevention tip: Document existing property conditions before you startVehicle accidentsWhy risk increases: More driving unfamiliar locationsQuick prevention tip: Allow for extra travel timeOverschedulingWhy risk increases: Rushing between jobs can cause mistakesQuick prevention tip: Leave buffer time and hire more staffThis story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How real estate investors are using property data to find deals before they hit the market How real estate investors are using property data to find deals before they hit the marketAlthough the median sales price of a U.S. single-family home has continued to slide since its peak in late 2022, real estate investors are still contending with a seller’s market in many parts of the U.S.In a competitive environment, the most successful investors are, more often than not, able to identify favorable properties before sellers actually list them on the market. Making a pre-market offer on a house carries some risk for buyers, but accurate property data search tools can provide crucial context to help you make an informed—and early—decision.Keep reading for a list of data points that may prove helpful if you’re looking for a property to add to your investment portfolio.PropertyReach used data from ATTOM and the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis to create this article.Why Would You Want to Make an Offer Before a House Goes on the Market?The primary reason real estate investors work so hard to identify pre-market listings is to buy them at a lower price. If the seller doesn’t list the home on the broader market, potential buyers are much less likely to become entangled in a bidding war.That premise begs the question: Why would a seller accept a lower offer for their property?One reason is that some sellers value transaction efficiency over wringing every last dollar out of the buyer. They might want to sell quickly or with as few contingencies as possible. Additionally, listing your house often requires staging it, taking pictures, and completing a slew of legal disclosures. Plenty of homeowners don’t want those hassles.7 Data Points Real Estate Investors Use to Identify Hot PropertiesAs you do your research, take the following data points with a grain of salt and consider them against the total ownership situation. One or two favorable conditions might not indicate a homeowner is about to list their property, but multiple ones could lead to a lucrative deal.1. Length of Ownership (Years Owned)Perhaps the simplest and most straightforward data point real estate investors use to identify pre-market properties is the number of years the current owner has owned it. The longer a house or condo is owned by a particular owner, the more likely a sale becomes.Although this data point is still reliable, data from ATTOM shows the average length of homeownership for sellers is higher than it’s ever been. It’s therefore prudent to look at other property data points in your quest to find off-market steals.2. Tax LiensHaving a clean record of paying property tax obligations is a sign that the homeowner is not in significant financial distress. Conversely, those who fall behind on their property taxes might not have the financial means to continue their mortgage payments, which could result in them losing the property.Savvy real estate investors are often on the lookout for recently filed municipal tax liens, along with the total amount owed in property taxes. Many homeowners in that position sell before foreclosure happens.3. Owner’s Mailing AddressAn investor is sure to become interested in a property that differs from the owner’s actual mailing address. In these circumstances, the owner is a remote operator of sorts. They could be renting out the property or have just become owners due to a death in the family.No matter the reason, a remote or absentee owner is not as emotionally invested in the property and, therefore, may be willing to sell. An absentee owner who’s managed a rental property for a long time might be looking to get out of the landlord game due to rising overhead costs.4. Building or Renovation PermitsFixing up the property before listing it on the market is a common strategy for homeowners looking to maximize profits. They might have found a good deal on the job or know someone who was willing to work for a discount. Investors typically look for municipal and county-level construction permits when identifying pre-market homes, as these can indicate a little “sprucing up” before hitting the market.5. Probate FilingsHouses are the most significant assets that many people leave behind after they pass away. Heirs and beneficiaries may not intend to keep owning homes they receive through inheritances—especially if there are multiple new owners.In these situations, real estate investors may strike gold with beneficiaries who want to sell quickly and efficiently. It’s smart to strike the right tone with the initial contact, as grieving families are hardly ever in the mood for hard sells. Exercise caution after you’ve found a property entered into an estate filing.6. Lis Pendens“Lis pendens” is Latin for “lawsuit pending.” It’s not a good sign for the current homeowner, as it usually indicates they are unable to make their mortgage payments. A lis pendens notice is far from a guarantee that the mortgage lender will take ownership of the property and put it up for sale, but it’s certainly a situation worth monitoring for real estate investors.Lenders may also issue a lis pendens notice if there is another type of dispute related to the property’s ownership. Marital homes may have a lis pendens issued on them if they’re involved in a dissolution of marriage (divorce) or if there’s a disputed inheritance.7. Refinancing Actions—More Specifically, the Lack ThereofWhy would a homeowner not refinance their property when interest rates dip low enough?In many cases, it indicates that they may not be occupants for much longer. Borrowers typically refinance to take advantage of long-term savings, as closing costs can render immediate returns moot. Homeowners who are about to list their house on the market or who are very close to paying off the loan might not want to deal with the hassle of switching lenders.Leverage Up-to-Date Property Data for Your Next TransactionAs more data becomes publicly available—and easily retrievable—it’s worthwhile to double-check the accuracy of the information you find. The more accurate information you have about a home, the better informed your pre-market offer will be. After all, successful investments are not possible without exhaustive research.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Scott County Democratic candidates to hold listening sessions Democrats running for county elected offices in Scott County will hold a series of listening sessions ahead of the November election.
	Behavioral health M&A remains strong with heightened interest Behavioral health M&A remains strong with heightened interest According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 adults—roughly 59 million people—live with a mental health issue, ranging from anxiety or depression to schizophrenia or addiction. While treatment options and access to care have increased in recent years, fewer than half of these people receive mental health services. Continued efforts around destigmatization and opening access through expanded funding and telehealth services will support those in need and drive investment in the space.Additionally, over 7 million people in the United States live with an intellectual or developmental disability, with a higher rate of prevalence in children aged 3 to 17 years old, according to the NIH and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As it relates to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) specifically, the CDC estimates that 1 in 31 children have been identified with ASD, a rate of prevalence that has roughly doubled over the past decade. These statistics reinforce why behavioral health services remain an essential resource for so many people.Given the magnitude and increasing prevalence of behavioral health (BEH) issues, private equity (PE) firms remain highly interested in identifying opportunities to deploy capital and professionalize businesses across the behavioral health continuum. "We’ve seen significant investment across behavioral health sectors for many years and don’t expect that to change given the large addressable market and unmet demand," said Steve Aguiar, managing director of Healthcare Investment Banking for Fifth Third Securities. "Any demand-supply imbalance creates opportunity."Sustained M&A momentum driven by demand, fragmentation, and investor appetiteBehavioral health mergers and acquisitions activity remained strong in 2025 and is expected to continue its upward trajectory into 2026, with certain subsectors such as autism therapy and intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) expected to receive outsized interest. A combination of market forces continues to fuel investment in behavioral health, including persistent market fragmentation, strong and rising demand for services, and workforce inefficiencies.Private equity and strategic buyers have long capitalized on opportunities to consolidate fragmented industries to achieve rapid expansion and scale, which remains a fundamental investment thesis in behavioral health. Both existing platforms and independent operators are actively pursuing add-on strategies in markets where demand exceeds supply, particularly in outpatient mental health and autism services, where rising prevalence and long waitlists highlight structural access barriers.Managing a workforce that is plagued by high turnover and labor shortages continues to be a critical focus area for all BEH companies and underscores the need to deploy effective management strategies that can scale efficiently as demand for services grows. Together, these market dynamics are increasing the strategic imperative for providers to pursue M&A to achieve operational efficiencies, expand geographic reach, and strengthen long‑term competitiveness.The path forwardLooking ahead, behavioral health M&A is expected to remain robust through 2026 and beyond, supported by a healthier exit environment, improving financial performance across many platforms, and the reemergence of high‑quality assets coming to market.While investors will continue to scrutinize regulatory shifts and prioritize strong compliance protocols, the year ahead is likely to see increased focus on targets with predictable reimbursement, durable margins, and scalable operating models. Rising demand, persistent undersupply, and stabilizing operating conditions, coupled with significant private equity dry powder, signal that behavioral health will remain one of the most active and resilient sectors in healthcare M&A. For many investors, BEH continues to offer both meaningful societal impact and compelling long‑term growth opportunities, reinforcing its position as a strategic priority within the broader healthcare services landscape.This story was produced by Fifth Third and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to travel with jewelry safely How to travel with jewelry safelyHitting the road (or skies) for an exciting adventure? Preparing for a trip is relatively easy for experienced travelers, but what do you do when it comes to packing and safely traveling with your engagement ring, luxury watch, or other expensive jewelry?Even the savviest of travelers can make simple mistakes that result in an expensive and heartbreaking loss. A perfect example is the moment Kim Kardashian lost her $75,000 diamond earring in the ocean while swimming in Bora Bora, or when Solange Knowles accidentally sent her art deco-inspired engagement ring soaring into the crowds of a Mardi Gras celebration while throwing beads in New Orleans. The urge to wear our best and boldest jewelry while we travel is hard to resist, but it creates an irrefutably higher risk for a tragic loss—not to mention a ruined vacation.Data from Jewelers Mutual’s 2026 Travel Study of consumers who routinely travel with their treasured pieces helps shed light on the top trends for keeping your jewelry safe while traveling in 2026 and beyond.Key Takeaways:Your jewelry is most vulnerable while you’re on the move.30% of travel-related losses occur near bodies of water, while 20% happen at hotels, and 13% at airports.Younger consumers experience higher rates of jewelry loss (likely because they wear jewelry more frequently and often treat pieces as lifestyle accessories).If you're like most travelers, protecting your jewelry isn't at the top of your travel to-do list. But there are some precautions to take, especially if you're bringing your engagement ring or other expensive pieces. Read on to learn how to travel with your jewelry safely.6 tips for traveling safely with your jewelry1. Make an inventory of the pieces you're taking with you. If you need to file a police report for any reason, an inventory may help with proof of ownership, though further proof may be required. (You should really do this anyway; it's smart to have a personal jewelry inventory.)2. Alert officials, if necessary. If your insurance company requires you to notify them of travel, make sure to do so. Also, if you’re traveling internationally, don’t forget that you may need to report the transport of goods valued to customs if it exceeds their most recent thresholds.3. Know when not to wear your jewelry. While your valuables are often safest while in your sight, there are activities during which you need to take your jewelry off. Look over this full list of activities that should be off-limits to jewelry.4. Store safely at your hotel. Never leave your jewelry out in your hotel room, even inside your luggage. For any expensive jewelry you're not wearing, ask the hotel staff if they have a safe you can use, whether in your room or behind the desk.5. Conceal, don't reveal. Don't advertise the presence of expensive jewelry by sharing it on social media. Especially if you're in a more dangerous or unknown area, take steps to conceal any expensive jewelry from strangers. There's no need to make yourself a target.6. Appraise and insure. Is your jewelry insured? Does your insurance cover worldwide travel? Or do you have travel insurance that covers jewelry? Make sure you know the limitations of your policy and that you have comprehensive coverage for the value of your pieces. It's also smart to update any appraisals before you leave.Additional tips for keeping your pieces safe in the hotelThe study reveals that for 42% of travelers, their engagement/wedding ring is the most expensive jewelry item they bring. So, what precautions should these types of travelers take?Avoid wearing your ring in or around water: Even applying suntan lotion or working up a sweat could make it easier for your ring to slide off.Be hotel savvy: The most common location for jewelry theft while traveling is the hotel room. Exercise caution everywhere you stay.Use the safe: Consider purchasing a supplementary lock to use on hotel safes for additional security and never leave jewelry in your room unattended.Can you bring jewelry in a carry-on bag?Yes. However, given that 26% of travel-related jewelry loss happens while the jewelry is packed, it is strongly recommended that you always wear your valuable pieces on your person, whenever possible. If you're not actually wearing your more expensive pieces through the airport, your carry-on is the only other way to go.Make sure to keep the bag with your jewelry inside in your sight at all times. That includes offers of help from airport staff, cab drivers, bellhops, and the like, and never pack your fine jewelry in checked luggage. There's just way too much risk.Can you wear jewelry through airport security?Yes. TSA may often encourage you to keep your jewelry on. Most jewelry will not set off any alarms, and if it does, an officer can inspect it with you watching.If you do decide to remove your jewelry for whatever reason, put it into your carry-on bag, not in a bin or bowl.What is the best jewelry for travel?There are so many things to think about while traveling; the fear of losing or damaging expensive, sentimental jewelry doesn't need to be one of them.Follow the 2-1-1 rule to simplify packing and minimize risk:2 pairs of earrings1 necklace1 ring or statement pieceThis keeps your travel jewelry simple and manageable so you can mix and match outfits without tracking too many valuables. Try packing hacks to keep your jewelry protected in your suitcase during travel,Should I wear a fake engagement ring on vacation?For many people, the most expensive piece of jewelry you own is your engagement ring. And you probably don't take it off very often. A fascinating 72% of respondents claimed that they own jewelry specifically meant for wear while traveling, and 22% have travel jewelry that they wear in place of their wedding or engagement ring, so the practice is relatively common.But should you wear it on your vacations? Depending on where you're going and what you'll be up to, the answer could very well be no.What to Do if Jewelry Goes Missing While TravelingEven with careful planning, jewelry can still be lost or stolen. If your pieces suddenly vanish, it’s best to act quickly.First, retrace your steps and check common areas where jewelry is often removed or left behind, like in the bathroom of your hotel, in and around your nightstands, in your hotel safe, around any pool areas or bodies of water, and at airport security.If you believe someone stole your jewelry, you need to notify security at the location where the incident occurred. Then file a police report with local authorities.If your jewelry is insured, contact your insurance provider or agent right away to understand what the next steps are. Having photos, appraisals, receipts, and a police report, when applicable, can help support the process.Travel Smart with JewelryJewelry often comes along for life’s most memorable moments, from weddings and anniversaries to vacations and once-in-a-lifetime trips. With a little planning, you can reduce the risk of loss or damage and spend more time enjoying the experience.Pack only what you need, keep jewelry in your carry-on, store pieces securely when not wearing them, and check your coverage before you go.This Jewelers Mutual study was conducted in February 2026. A sample of over 1,500 adults in the U.S., age 18+ who were responsible for making insurance decisions in their household and had at least one piece of fine jewelry, was recruited via an online research panel and surveyed via online self-completion.This story was produced by Jewelers Mutual Group and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The frontline for voting rights is the rural South The frontline for voting rights is the rural SouthMore than 60 years ago, the rural South was the epicenter of voting rights organizing for Black Americans. Marches and government violence in Selma, Alabama, turned the nation’s attention to the violence Black voters faced, inciting the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA), a signature accomplishment of the Civil Rights Movement.Now, the Supreme Court has weakened these legal protections, and underrepresented voters all over the country, but particularly in the rural South, are again confronting inequalities in voting rights and fair representation in state, local, and federal government. “You’re going to see … very limited judicial and congressional oversight of what states are doing, on how they draw districts,” said John Cusick, assistant counsel at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund (LDF), in an interview with the Daily Yonder. “And the real concern is that we’re going to see the same history repeat itself, where Black voters and other voters of color are going to have their voting rights trampled on.”In April of this year, the Supreme Court gutted Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act in its Louisiana v. Callais decision. Section 2 protected voters of color from racial discrimination in congressional apportionment, or legislative mapmaking.But the Callais decision was not made in a vacuum. It came after years of Supreme Court case law that gutted key protections. In June of 2013, the Supreme Court decided the landmark Shelby v. Holder, which dismantled a provision that prevented states and municipalities from implementing harmful electoral policies. Since Holder, 29 states have passed restrictive voting laws like strict photo ID policies and restrictions on mail-in voting. Holder and Callais administered a “death by 1,000 cuts” to the VRA, Cusick said.The Rural Origins of the Voting Rights ActIn 1962, three years before Congress passed the VRA, only 14% of eligible Black residents were registered to vote in Alabama. In the spring of 1965, in Dallas County, Alabama, where Selma is the county seat, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) sought to increase registration among Black residents. They formed the Selma Campaign, an effort to register Black residents to vote by funneling national attention to the issue through a series of marches. Civil Rights organizer Reverend Andrew Young told the Birmingham News in 1965 that the “voting bill is being written in Selma,” referring to the coming VRA. In February of 1965, activists aimed to march to the Marion Courthouse from Zion United Methodist Church in Marion, Alabama. But demonstrators were met with violence from law enforcement officers, who killed 26-year-old deacon Jimmie Lee Jackson. In response to Jackson’s murder, the SCLC organized a 5-day, 54-mile march from Selma to Montgomery on March 7, 1965. But the protesters only traveled two-thirds of a mile before police, under the leadership of Dallas County Sheriff Jim Clark, tear-gassed the crowd on the Edmund Pettus Bridge near downtown Selma. Many demonstrators were injured and hospitalized during the attack, which came to be known as “Bloody Sunday.”On the following day, Civil Rights leaders Hosea Williams, John Lewis, and Amelia Boynton filed a class action lawsuit against Alabama Governor George Wallace, claiming violations of Black Alabamians’ voting rights. In Williams v. Wallace, the Supreme Court required the U.S. Army and the Alabama National Guard to escort the protestors on another Selma-to-Montgomery march, led by Martin Luther King Jr., from March 21 to March 25, 1965. Voting rights historian Alexander Keyssar, Ph.D., of Harvard University, said that, although most voting legislation has historically been at the state level, the VRA was one of the first significant pieces of voting legislation at the federal level. “If you left the South on its own, it was not going to eliminate racial discrimination in voting,” Keyssar told the Daily Yonder in a phone interview. “You couldn’t assume that over time things would get better.”While Black Americans fought for voting rights at home, the United States faced pressure from abroad to create more equitable voting systems. During the Cold War, Soviet forces influenced other countries, including African countries, to consider how Americans were treating their own people of color. Scott Olson // Getty Images “Why do you want to align with the United States? Look at the way they treat their Black and brown people,” said Keyssar.With pressures both from home and abroad, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law five months after Bloody Sunday. The law has been reauthorized since its passage because certain provisions were time-limited. This occurred most recently in 2006 under President George W. Bush and a Republican-controlled Congress. But in recent years, in the landmark cases of Shelby v. Holder and Louisiana v. Callais, the Supreme Court has taken a sharp diversion from protecting voting rights for all Americans. Shelby v. HolderOver the last 13 years, the gap between Black and white turnout has grown the most in states previously beholden to the VRA’s preclearance clause, which prohibited states and local governments with histories of voting discrimination from making voting policy changes without federal approval. That’s because the Supreme Court gutted the preclearance clause in their 2013 decision, Shelby v. Holder.“Section five, which was the preclearance provision, was designed to prevent states from circumventing the intent of the Voting Rights Act by changing some aspects of the electoral system in a way that would harm the interests of minorities,” Keyssar said.But this clause became unenforceable when the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice John Roberts, determined that the formula used to determine which places were beholden to the clause was unconstitutional. “That flies in the face of a very powerful pattern — very visible in the South — of basically racially segmented voting patterns,” Keyssar said. A data analysis from the Brennan Center for Justice, a nonpartisan law institute, found that the turnout gap between Black and white voters in places previously beholden to the preclearance cause was about five percentage points greater than it would have been if the clause were still in effect. “The turnout gap grew almost twice as quickly in formerly covered jurisdictions as in other parts of the county with similar demographics and socioeconomic profiles,” the Brennan Center reported. “A lot of people who are experiencing challenges and who felt disadvantaged for their whole lives, they often don’t feel like their votes matter,” said James Sutton, director of operations of Foot Soldiers Park, a nonprofit voting rights advocacy organization based in Selma, Alabama. In a rural area, feelings of apathy can be compounded by other challenges, like access to reliable transportation or childcare, according to Sutton. And when those challenges are exacerbated by restrictive voting measures like photo ID laws, it can make it extra hard to get to the polls, especially if you live in a rural area far away from a Driver’s License office. A new wave of restrictions on voting by mail, one of the many state-level policy changes enabled by the Holder decision, also disproportionately hurts rural voters, according to previous reporting by the Daily Yonder. That’s because there are fewer poll sites in rural areas than there are in urban areas, making travel distances more arduous for rural voters. Limited access to reliable public transportation can exacerbate these challenges.“Some people have only a small window that they can really be gone for health challenges, or the amount of time they can actually stand,” said Sutton. Long lines at the polls might make it impossible for older populations — particularly those in rural areas — to vote. “People don’t really necessarily have quick access to medicines, hospitals, without having to travel. All of the elements that require somebody to move — it creates a barrier and a challenge for people,” Sutton said.Louisiana v. CallaisIn Louisiana v. Callais, the Supreme Court made it nearly impossible to prove that racially-discriminatory congressional maps violate Section 2 of the VRA, a decision that will disproportionately hurt voters of color, according to legal experts. In 2024, a group of self-identified “non-African American voters” challenged a Louisiana congressional map that included two majority-Black districts, claiming that the two districts were drawn to unfairly favor Black voters. But disputes over Louisiana’s congressional map actually began back in 2022, when the state adopted a map that only included one majority-Black district out of the six total districts allotted to the state. Black voters make up about one-third of Louisiana’s voting population, while only a sixth of congressional maps were majority-Black in the 2022 map. A group of Black voters challenged the 2022 map in federal court, citing racial discrimination and a violation of Section 2 of the VRA. A federal judge sided with the Black Louisiana voters, agreeing that the map diluted their voting power by splitting, or “cracking,” them into different districts. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit upheld that ruling and ordered Louisiana to draw a new map — one that included a second majority-Black district. Jemal Countess // Getty Images for Legal Defense Fund Louisiana’s new 2024 map — the map in question in the Callais decision — included a second majority-Black district that elected Representative Cleo Fields, a Democrat from Baton Rouge who served another majority-Black district in the 1990s. But in April of this year, the Supreme Court struck down Louisiana’s 2024 map. In his Callais opinion, Justice Samuel Alito stated that a violation of Section 2 of the VRA only occurs when “intentional discrimination occurred.” But proving intentional discrimination is difficult, even if an electoral policy or map discriminates in effect. Before the Callais decision, Congress explicitly stated that proving discriminatory intent was not necessary, and that discriminatory effects were sufficient evidence of a Section 2 violation.“You didn’t need to show that there was a discriminatory purpose,” said Cusick, assistant counsel at LDF. “It’s very, very difficult to prove an intent case.”Concern over violating Section 2 might have previously kept an all-white legislature from drawing a racially-discriminatory map, but that’s not the case anymore, according to Cusick.Under the Supreme Court’s new interpretation of Section 2, “a State can, without legal consequence, systematically dilute minority citizens’ voting power,” wrote Justice Elena Kagan in her dissent, which was joined by Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. New updates to Section 2 of the VRA “eviscerate the law,” according to Kagan.The Voting Rights Act TodayIn response to the Callais decision, many states are rushing to redistrict ahead of the 2026 midterms, while others are calling special legislative sessions to consider a redistricting push for the 2028 presidential election. The day after the Supreme Court decided Callais, legislators in Alabama asked the court to allow them to use an old congressional map that lower courts previously determined to be racially discriminatory. The Supreme Court sided with the Alabama lawmakers, allowing the state to use the congressional map that erases one of its two majority-Black districts. Meanwhile, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry delayed House primaries to give the state time to redraw a map that eliminated the majority-Black district at the heart of the Callais decision. “Unfortunately, Black voters are going to be harmed regardless, and it’s going to show up in different ways,” said Cusick. And the gutting of Section 2 will affect state and local elections in addition to federal ones, according to Cusick. In February of 2025, the LDF filed a case in Fayette County, Tennessee, asserting that a county commissioner map discriminated against Black voters. Fayette County is a suburb of Memphis, where more than 75% of the population lives in a rural area according to the Census definition. More than a quarter of Fayette County residents are Black, but all of the county’s commissioners were white at the time LDF filed its case. “In response to that lawsuit, the county commission passed a new map that was fair and reduced those harms. But there are chances throughout this country that you’re going to see revisiting or redistricting at every level,” Cusick said. Voters need to be involved at every level of government — attending meetings and following updates — in order to hold leaders accountable, said Cusick, who referred to recent electoral legislation as part of a multi-decade project to dismantle key civil rights protections. The VRA had such an important role in “increasing Black voter participation, turnout, Black candidates running for and winning office,” said Cusick.Sutton from Foot Soldiers Park echoed Cusick’s advice to voters, emphasizing the importance of participating in democracy. “If something wasn’t important, there wouldn’t be so many people trying to weaken your power or take it away from you,” Sutton said. “So it must be really, really important.”This story was produced by The Daily Yonder and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Keeping cool without AC: Our readers share their tips We asked our readers to tell us how they've fended off heat without the refrigerant blasts of an air conditioner. Here's what they shared.
	Colona crews fight pole barn fire Multiple area departments assisted Colona fire crews at a pole barn fire on Thursday after lack of hydrants forced them to call for water tankers.
	As gas prices and airfare soar, is it cheaper to fly or drive when traveling on a budget? As gas prices and airfare soar, is it cheaper to fly or drive when traveling on a budget?If you're traveling domestically in the U.S. and trying to save money, deciding whether to drive or fly can be an important decision.You may assume a road trip is always cheaper for those traveling on a budget, but as fuel prices surge due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, that's not necessarily true. As of July 24, 2026, AAA pegged the national average fuel price at $4.10 per gallon for regular gasoline, up from $3.16 from this time last year.It goes without saying that flying is almost always faster than driving, but, as with calculating the cost of driving to your destination, airfare prices are similarly volatile right now. Domestic airfare for summer 2026 is trending nearly 15% higher than last year, and that goes for cash fares and points pricing alike.In 2026, the cheapest option isn't always what you might think, especially when you factor in credit cards, points and miles and rewards programs that can help you save.The Points Guy shares how to determine which mode of transportation is best for you and your budget.How to calculate the cost of driving vs. flyingIt's best to start by breaking out some good ol' pen and paper, and ideally a calculator, to do the math. Let's examine the numbers of a hypothetical trip between Chicago and Denver.An August 2026 flight between Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Denver International Airport (DEN) costs as little as $293 round-trip with United Airlines if you choose a Main Cabin economy ticket.If you make the same trip in your car, you'll drive about 2,000 miles round-trip. Assuming gas costs $4.10 per gallon, and you'd make the drive in a vehicle with a gas tank capacity of 14 gallons and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you would need to fill your car with fuel 5.71 times to get from Chicago to Denver, totaling $328.For a solo trip, flying between Chicago and Denver is cheaper than driving. However, if you're traveling as a family or with more than one person, driving is a far cheaper option per head.Of course, you may want to get a hotel room to break up the drive, and you'll have to stop for meals along the way. Both of those add to the trip's cost, and you'll need to factor them into your calculations.Consider how many people are in your travel partyIf you find a great flight deal or book with a low-cost airline, you can score one-way flights for under $100. However, that cost goes up when you throw in a spouse and kids. If you travel with a large group, flying may be more expensive than driving — even if you add the cost of gas, meals and an overnight hotel room.Use a calculator to help compare costsHow do you determine whether flying or driving is the more affordable trip for you? The best way is to crunch the numbers, as shown in the example above.Consider how much it costs to fill up your car’s gas tank and how many times you’d need to do so for the trip. Then, add estimates for food stops along the way as well as any accommodations you’ll need if it’s a multiday journey.Tools like AAA's easy-to-use gas cost calculator do most of the work for you. Plug in your point of origin, your destination, and the make and model of your car to find out how much you’ll pay in gas to get where you are going.Compare that price to the flight prices for everyone taking the trip. Flights on weekends or holidays will likely be more expensive, but if your dates are flexible, you may be able to find a good deal.Choose a flight to anywhereIf you really want to play a wild card, you can use sites like Google Flights or Skyscanner to search for flights to multiple destinations by typing in only your airport of origin and travel dates. The results will show pricing to multiple destinations, so that you can find the best fit for your budget.Consider the time commitmentFinally, you can’t forget about the time commitment between driving and flying. For long road trips, is it worth spending all that time stuck in a car staring at the highway to reach your final destination? Would you rather pay more to spend that time at home or at your destination? Or is the journey part of what makes the trip appealing? Only you can answer those questions, and the answer will vary from trip to trip.On the other hand, flying can take nearly as long as driving in some cases. You must arrive at the airport at least an hour before your flight (usually more), and if you have a connecting flight, you may have to wait through a long layover.Find ways to save, no matter how you travelWhether you drive or fly, there are ways to mitigate rising costs.Before you hit the road, sign up for any (or all) gas rewards programs and download their respective apps. You can save at least a few cents per gallon every time you fill up, and most also allow you to earn points you can redeem for even higher savings. It may not sound like much, but it all adds up.Some credit cards earn bonus points or cash back at gas stations, like the Citi Strata Card (earns 3 points per dollar spent), Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express (earns 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations; cash back is received in the form of reward dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout) and the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card (earns 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. gas stations).Lastly, if you choose to fly rather than drive, evaluate your points and miles stash as you are planning your trip. You may have enough points to cover some or all of your travel party's flights, especially if your destination or travel dates are flexible.Bottom lineDriving isn't always the cheapest way to get where you're going. Quick road trips can be a great way to save money, but flying can be a surprising way to save money when booking your domestic getaways this year.This story was produced by The Points Guy and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	When is the best time to buy a used car? When is the best time to buy a used car?The best time to buy a used car is in October and November, according to Edmunds sales data and our analysts. That's the simple answer, but what if you can't wait until then? Are there other good times to buy a used car? Are prices trending high or low now?There are many factors that determine when it's a good time to buy a used car, including how many lease returns are coming, market conditions, and even specific months when prices trend higher — all of which will be discussed in this article by Edmunds.Best time of the year to buy a used carAccording to the latest Edmunds sales data, the best time of the year to buy a used car is in the months of October and November. As automakers seek to move inventory to make room for upcoming models, end-of-year promotions and financing deals often entice used-car buyers to spring for a new vehicle instead, which then eases demand for used vehicles and improves pricing for used-car buyers."Seasonal price reductions have been holding true," noted Ivan Drury, director of insights for Edmunds. "Our data indicates that the best discounts still occur near the end of the year, in October and November."However, shoppers should also consider other notable factors when purchasing a used car in today's market. Read on for additional insight that will help make every dollar count.Best month to buy a used car: Based on the seasonal trends seen over a number of years, November is the best month to buy a car.Worst month to buy a used car: January starts off strong for used car values, which means that retail prices will be high. "We often see [prices] dip in February, but then March and April tend to get a slight lift with tax season," said Drury.Best holiday to buy a used car: With the best deals occurring in November, the best holiday to buy a used car is Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. Widely recognized as the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, Black Friday brings financing incentives, price cuts, and trade-in bonuses that are often used to help dealers clear out older inventory.Best day to buy a car: Generally speaking, the best day to buy a used car is whichever day in November is most convenient for you. Going to the dealership during the week may offer an advantage if you can carve out the time, though. Salespeople typically aren't as busy on weekdays as they are on the weekends, so they should have more time to help you out.Are used car prices dropping? Yes and no.Three-year-old used cars climbed to near-record prices in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, averaging $31,548, the second-highest Q1 on record. However, the used car market will benefit from a significant influx of inventory, as expiring lease vehicles are projected to rise by 25.7% in 2026, representing nearly half a million additional vehicles hitting dealership lots compared to last year. The increase in volume is expected to keep used car prices steady and, in some cases, bring them down, as a considerable portion of the returning volume consists of electric vehicles.That projected influx of off-lease vehicles should keep used car prices steady, and it's expected to bring a bit of relief to both EV and non-EV buyers. "That will be felt all around, but it might just translate into increased selection rather than a reduction in prices," Drury explained. "Demand for used vehicles remains very high, even at higher price points." EVs are more likely to get greater discounts due to the higher number of leased electric vehicles returning to dealership fleets.The best time to buy a used car in 2026Assuming seasonal trends remain the same for the rest of 2026, the best time to buy a used car will continue to be in October and November.Edmunds analysts expect roughly 400,000 more lease returns in 2027 than in 2026, so this trend of rising off-lease inventory should continue into next year. However, that's when the influx of used cars is expected to end. The reason: Fewer leases were taken out in 2025 due to a slowdown in automaker incentives, and 2026 isn’t shaping up to be any better. "Unless there's a major shift in incentives that favors leasing," Drury said, "we'll likely be in this stifled state of low inventory and high retail prices for the foreseeable future."Is now a good time to buy a used car?Mid-to-late fall is the best time to buy a used car, but not everyone can neatly fit that into their life. Things happen, and sometimes you may need a new car in February. Are you going to wait eight months to buy one? No.The more realistic answer to "Is now a good time to buy a used car?" is "yes," provided you've done the necessary preparations to determine your affordability, appraise your trade-in, browse used car listings and get preapproved for a loan to compare interest rates.Do's and don'ts for the best time to buy a used carDo: Get an early start on things, while your current vehicle is still in working order and you have time to browse inventory. Start browsing used car listings now. If you see something you like, you may need to move quickly so that someone else doesn't buy the car you want.Don't: Rush and try to shoehorn your car purchase into the ideal month or holiday weekend. You may encounter larger crowds at the dealership and are likely to miss important details that can determine whether or not you get a good deal. Your research and preparation will make far more of an impact on the deal you get than trying to fit it into a specific month.Do: Get your current car appraised to determine its trade-in value. One silver lining in the current market is that your car could be worth more than usual, as good used cars remain in high demand.Don't: Wait to buy your next used car until your current vehicle is hanging on by a thread — or totally busted. Doing so can add an element of urgency to the buying process that tends to favor the seller. It's tough to be patient and objective about a vehicle you're considering if you're in a tight spot and desperate to replace your current one.Final pro tip: Taking a preemptive approach can head off much of the stress of buying a used car. If your current ride is starting to show its age or you anticipate that your car needs will change in the foreseeable future, start researching the models and features that you're interested in, get a sense of pricing by checking out local dealerships and online ads, and set a budget now. This approach will give you a more informed perspective during the buying process and may allow you to be more selective about the time of year that you enter the market.This story was produced by Edmunds and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The wildlife refuge system is quietly falling apart The wildlife refuge system is quietly falling apartEarlier this year, supporters of Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge—a 50,000-acre nature preserve spread across parts of three counties in southeastern Indiana—got an alarming letter from Will Meeks, the Midwest regional director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Meeks indicated that the federal government was probably going to walk away from the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that has governed the refuge for more than 25 years, raising the possibility that Big Oaks, in the future, could cease to function as the public-use resource it is today.“On April 8, 2026,” he wrote, “a meeting was held between [the] Department of the Army, Department of the Air Force, Indiana Air Guard, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. … Simply stated, current realities create challenges in our ability to meet the remaining obligations in the agreement.”Did “challenges” mean funding issues? That wasn’t explained, but it seemed possible, since the Trump administration has proposed slashing the budget for the National Wildlife Refuge system by more than $100 million for 2027, RE:PUBLIC reports. In addition, Fish and Wildlife as a whole is under a hiring freeze, so jobs lost through attrition aren’t being filled.The letter also mentioned the loss of fire crews that worked on the refuge but “are no longer under our jurisdiction”—the implication perhaps being that this change makes it unsafe or unmanageable. (The firefighters are now part of the new U.S. Wildland Fire Service, a different branch of the U.S. Department of the Interior.) Overall, the letter’s vagueness left local advocates for Big Oaks feeling very confused.“I am not confident that they fully understand what they do and do not have to do under the current MOA,” says Jim Leveille II, treasurer of the nonprofit Big Oaks Conservation Society—an official “friends group” that partners with Fish and Wildlife to support the facility. “It seems to me they have decided to get rid of Big Oaks as a national wildlife refuge and are fishing for reasons.”Meanwhile, the clock started ticking, because it emerged at the same time that Meeks was likely to sign a 180-day notice of the government’s intent to withdraw from the MOA. (At press time, that hasn’t happened.) The letter was CC’d to Sabrina Chandler, an area supervisor who, like Meeks, is based in Minnesota, home to regional managers who oversee refuges in eight midwestern states. (Fish and Wildlife declined Re:Public’s request for interviews with Meeks, Chandler, and Brian R. Nesvik, the agency’s director.)The military is involved because Big Oaks exists on an old site called the Jefferson Proving Ground (JPG), which, from 1940 to 1994, was used to test and evaluate what a 2000 planning document calls “production line acceptance munitions.” That means ammo—bombs, missiles, artillery shells, bullets—that had to pass muster before being shipped off for use. Big Oaks is what’s known as an “overlay” refuge, which means it exists on land primarily owned by a different federal agency than the one running it. There are other places in the 573-site refuge system that, while they’re not overlays, have historic ties to the military—for example, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona, which General George S. Patton used for desert warfare training during World War II.Testing stopped at Big Oaks in 1994; the facility was shut down fully in 1995. Fish and Wildlife started managing natural resources there in 1996, and, in 2000, an MOA with the Army and Air Force formalized a 25-year agreement to create and manage a refuge, setting aside the land for wildlife and human use but also leaving room for an Indiana Air National Guard facility called the Jefferson Range. The current MOA—the one Fish and Wildlife might abandon—was signed in 2020.Not surprisingly, given this history, Big Oaks is home to some gnarly relics, including what the 2000 document describes as “unexploded ordnance (UXO), depleted uranium (DU), and other contaminants.” Visitors have to attend a safety briefing and sign a waiver in which they acknowledge that entering the refuge puts them at risk of “permanent, painful, disabling, and disfiguring injury or death due to the presence of expended, but still live, bombs, rockets, cannon rounds, flares, and other types of warheads. … These munitions can still explode though they may have lain in the ground for decades.”In practice, things have gone smoothly over the past quarter-century, with no reports of exploding hikers or radioactive squirrels. Roughly 50% of the refuge is off-limits, but the remainder—including big blocks of terrain mainly used by hunters; along with a day-use area in the refuge’s northeast corner that contains a popular fishing reservoir called Old Timbers Lake—is cherished by locals. Hours are limited: At present, Big Oaks is only open on Mondays and Fridays between 7:00 a.m. and 3 p.m.“I’ve hunted in Big Oaks since I was young,” Leveille says. “It’s a mile and a half from my house, and when I go there, I feel like I’m in a different world.”It’s easy to see why a place like Big Oaks stands out. The federal government owns only about 1.7% of Indiana’s land, and the state is home to just three national wildlife refuges, one national forest—Hoosier, which covers nearly 205,000 acres 75 miles southwest of Big Oaks—and a small national park: 16,000-acre Indiana Dunes, on the southern shores of Lake Michigan.If the military hadn’t established the JPG, most of Big Oaks’s 50,000 acres would, in all probability, be farmland. Instead, they’re a time capsule of what this part of the Midwest looked like in a more natural state. Even with Big Oaks’s seasonal limitations on when and where visitation is allowed, it’s estimated that between ten and twelve thousand people used the facility in 2025, for activities that include fishing, hunting, hiking, and birdwatching. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service A north-south rectangle that measures roughly 16 x 5 miles and is criss-crossed by roads, the refuge features a mix of upland forests (evergreen and deciduous trees, including beautiful oaks), grasslands, wetlands, and historic structures like the Old Timbers Lodge, an American Craftsman-style building on the National Register of Historic Places. The habitat supports roughly 200 species of birds and more than 130 species of mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and mollusks. The National Audubon Society recognizes Big Oaks as a Globally Important Bird Area.For those who believe this is all worth saving, public regard for Big Oaks has been invaluable, and it has fueled what may be the best available response when faraway agents of the federal government behave mysteriously: making noise.This has happened in various ways. Well before Meeks’s letter landed, the Big Oaks Conservation Society had been asking Fish and Wildlife for information and clarity about the refuge’s future. With his foreboding missive in hand, they pursued the obvious step of contacting local, statewide, and national elected officials.Thorough coverage of the issue showed up in The Madison Courier—a newspaper serving the seat of one of Big Oaks’s three home counties, Jefferson—The Indianapolis Star, and on the websites of sportsmen’s outlets, such as Backcountry Hunters and Anglers and Outdoor Life. Victoria Martz, a Democratic candidate for the Indiana legislature—in a district that’s about 25 miles north of Big Oaks—organized a petition rally demanding that Congress and Fish and Wildlife “immediately restore necessary operating budget and personnel funding” to the refuge. More than 4,000 people signed it.“Republicans, Independents, Democrats, and Libertarians all came together to demand our legislators fully fund Big Oaks,” Martz says. “Listening to speakers, it was clear the love for it crosses generations, state lines, and political parties. We have to prioritize using taxpayer dollars to preserve public lands like this and keep them open to the public.”This outcry has had an effect. On July 8, Bob Courtney, Madison’s mayor, convened a meeting that involved several heavy hitters in Indiana politics. Among those who attended, in person or remotely, were representatives from the offices of Indiana Governor Mike Braun, U.S. Senator Jim Banks, U.S. Representative Erin Houchin, a state senator, and a state representative.According to an account of this meeting in The Madison Courier—confirmed by people who were there—Courtney sounded determined about saving Big Oaks. “We have a good cross section of policymaker offices that in my opinion will help us get the consensus that the refuge has to stay open,” he told the group.Chris Crabtree, state field director for Senator Banks, mentioned the ongoing mystery of why Fish and Wildlife has problems with the MOA to begin with. “We’ve heard it’s not about money,” he said. If it isn’t, he added, the discussion should be focused on “what’s it about, and proceed from there.”On July 14, in response to a June inquiry signed by 18 environmental and conservation groups, Nesvik wrote: “We are committed to public use and access opportunities on the site. … [W]e are proceeding with deer draw hunts for the fall youth, archery and firearm hunts in conjunction with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.”Nesvik didn’t address the 180-day intent to withdraw, so this can be read in two ways: as the sound of a door creaking open or of a nothingburger being flipped. But it’s notable that conservationists heard from him shortly after the mayor’s meeting. If Big Oaks does survive, local support will be a big part of the reason why.“Public lands, overall, are not always understood by politicians in the sense that there’s a group of folks who just love them,” says Joe Robb, who retired from his longtime position as Big Oaks’s refuge manager earlier this year. “A national area like this one is a different kind of beast. They’re special. They’re cherished.”Whatever happens next, Big Oaks faces problems that have been felt for years at wildlife refuges all over the country: an erosion of funding and personnel that has occurred during both Republican and Democratic presidential administrations.“Around 2010 or 2011, we peaked in funding,” Robb says. “In my last year or two, I was down to one maintenance person and a part-time park ranger.” When Big Oaks was fully staffed, Robb had two assistant managers, an administrative officer, two biologists, a law enforcement officer, a fire management officer, and a total of four full-time and seasonal firefighters. The fire staff helped with habitat maintenance—in part by using prescribed burns—wetland restoration, hunting management, and road work. “They were a critical part of the refuge team,” he says.According to data compiled by the National Wildlife Refuge Association (NWRA), a nonprofit based in Washington D.C., the patterns Robb describes are widespread in the refuge system, which currently consists of properties in all 50 states and five territories.“You can take that story and mimic it all across the United States,” Desirée Sorenson-Groves, the association’s president and CEO, says of Big Oaks. “The refuge system had already lost 30% of their staff since 2010. They were already in a place where they could barely do anything. We estimate that they’ve lost another 20%, to firing and retirements, since January 2025.”Flat funding and the corrosive effects of inflation are a big part of the problem. In fiscal year 2010, Congress appropriated $503 million for refuges, compared to $522 million for 2026. Adjusted, that 2010 amount would be just over $730 million today. The administration’s proposal for 2027 asks for a massive cut: down to $417 million.During this 15-year timespan, visitation to the system has increased by 55%. On the ground, what this means is a stressed system that, like Big Oaks, is getting by with a skeleton crew. “No refuges are fully staffed,” NWRA says in a fact sheet about current funding challenges. “Many refuges are closed to the public and are completely unmanaged.” At others, basic amenities like closed visitor centers, closed bathrooms, and unmaintained trails leave “a feeling of disrepair.”This story was produced by RE:PUBLIC and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Command the cookout: 8 disastrous grilling mistakes and how to avoid them Command the cookout: 8 disastrous grilling mistakes and how to avoid themNothing says summer like friends and family gathering around the grill for a barbecue feast. And while there are myriad foods that can be grilled to perfection, there are just as many ways to screw it all up. If you’re not careful, those gourmet burgers can quickly turn into hockey pucks, that double-cut Iberico pork chop might retain all the tenderness of shoe leather, or worse yet, you might set off a five-alarm fire by accident.Here's what Charles Dabbs, a multi-award-winning BBQ and steak pitmaster, has to say:"Grilling isn't about luck," Dabbs told Monument Grills. "It's about managing heat, understanding your grill, and being patient. Avoiding a few common pitfalls can make all the difference and take your food from average to amazing."Here are eight ways to avoid common pitfalls, according to Dabbs.1. Patience when preheatingAfter lighting your grill, give it a good 15 minutes to heat up. If you immediately throw food on cold grates, you're setting yourself up for disaster. Cold grates cause food to stick, making it much harder to achieve a flavorful sear that creates those killer grill marks."A properly preheated grill gives you a clean sear and helps food release naturally from the grates," says Dabbs. "It's one of the simplest ways to improve your results."2. Keep it cleanIf you’re like most grillers, you often leave the charred bits and BBQ sauce to be burned off the next time you fire up your grill. According to Dabbs, this is a big no-no. In fact, cleaning your grill shouldn't begin before your next cook, it should happen after your current one.It’s important to leave the grill running for a few minutes after removing your food to burn off leftover grease and food particles. Then scrape the grates clean and apply a light coating of oil to help season them and extend their lifespan."Taking a few extra minutes after each cook makes the next one much easier," Dabbs says. "Clean, seasoned grates help prevent sticking and keep your grill performing its best."3. Turn down the heatIn a perfect world, we’d be able to blast the grill burners on high and never touch the controls again. Too many backyard grillers do this, according to Dabbs, but unfortunately, it often leads to food that's charred on the outside and raw in the center.To mitigate this problem, create a two-zone cooking setup instead by keeping one side of the grill on high heat and the other on medium or low. “This gives you a cooler ‘safe zone’ to move food if flare-ups occur and creates the ideal setup for techniques like reverse searing steaks,” says Dabbs. "Your grill doesn't need to be one temperature everywhere."4. Indirect is the right directionMany gas grill owners overlook one of their grill's most useful features: indirect heat.The next time you want to nail a perfect medium-rare on that Wagyu tomahawk ribeye, heat one side of the grill while leaving the opposite side off. This creates a gentler cooking environment for thicker cuts to come up to temp slowly on the cool side before searing off on the hot side (hence, reverse sear).Don't overlook the upper warming rack, either. Sure, it’s great for warming buns or keeping cooked food warm, but it can double as the ideal space for indirect cooking by keeping food away from intense, direct heat."Not everything needs to go directly over the flame," Dabbs says. "Using indirect heat gives you more flexibility and helps prevent overcooking." Monument Grills 5. Keep a lid on itWhen you hear that sizzle and smell that smoke, it's hard not to crack open that grill lid every minute or two to check on the food. But constantly lifting the lid does more harm than good, as all of the ambient heat that was created dissipates and causes an uneven cooking experience.Or, as one of Dabbs' barbecue mentors always liked to say, "If you're lookin', you ain't cookin'."Every time the lid opens, heat escapes and the cooking temperature fluctuates, making it harder for food to cook evenly."Trust the process," Dabbs says. "Every time you open the lid, you're resetting the cooking environment."6. The right tool for the right temperatureIf you’re tired of relying on guesswork when determining whether the food is done, you’re not alone. To avoid making another round of burnt burgers or raw chicken legs, invest in a quality digital instant-read thermometer. It takes the uncertainty out of grilling by providing fast, accurate internal temperature readings, according to Dabbs."The thermometer tells you what's happening inside the meat," says Dabbs. "It's one of the best investments any griller can make."7. Give it a restAfter choosing, preparing and cooking your feast to perfection, resist the urge to cut into those proteins right away. Allowing meat to rest, lightly covered in foil, for 10 to 15 minutes gives those delicious juices time to redistribute instead of spilling onto the cutting board."If you cut too soon, those flavorful juices end up on the plate instead of in every bite," Dabbs says. "Remember, we’re trying to be kings and queens of the cul-de-sac. No one is a fan of dry burgers, chicken or steak.”8. Going after greaseGrease buildup inside your grill is a disaster waiting to happen. Why? Layers of grease buildup and cooking remnants in the drip tray or inside the grill can eventually ignite, creating dangerous flare-ups and even full-blown grease fires.Even experienced grillers like Dabbs admit this one can be easy to neglect, as he’s not ashamed to admit he’s set off a grill fire or two in his day.“I’m guilty as charged,” jokes Dabbs. “That’s why you can’t let all of those black bits and grease build up. Empty the drip tray before or after every cook, and also scrape away greasy build-up inside the grill so you don’t create a five-alarm fire.”By paying attention to these fundamental techniques, you'll not only avoid disaster, you’ll eventually become the grill master of your neighborhood.This story was produced by Monument Grills and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Half of homeowners now say the American Dream is 'eroding' or 'broken,' survey finds Half of homeowners now call the American Dream ‘eroding’ or ‘broken,’ survey findsHomeownership has long carried a certain weight in the United States. It has been described as a foundation for stability, a path to wealth, a rite of passage, and — most durably — a cornerstone of the American Dream. As the country marked its 250th birthday in the summer of 2026, one survey set out to learn how homeowners themselves view the experience today.The survey, conducted by Hometap in June 2026, asked 1,000 U.S. homeowners about the moment of purchase, the experience of ownership over time, what the 250-year milestone represents, and what it all means for the next generation. The findings describe a population that still believes in homeownership as an idea but is increasingly skeptical that the system delivers on it.Here is what the data revealed across eight key findings.The meaning of homeownership has shifted, but stability still anchors itWhen asked what single word best described homeownership to their parentsâ€™ generation, 56% of respondents said "stability." Asked what it means to them today, 51% still chose that word — so the core meaning has not shifted dramatically. The larger changes appear elsewhere: "investment" rose from 19% to 27%, and "burden" more than doubled, from 3% to 6%. Homeownership is still seen as a foundation, but increasingly with mixed feelings. Hometap Most homeowners say the dream hasn't fully deliveredJust 18% of homeowners say homeownership has fully delivered on its role as a cornerstone of the American Dream. Another 45% say it has partially delivered and a combined 36% say it has largely or completely fallen short. That sentiment holds across every generation and region surveyed. Baby boomers stand out: the generation that benefited most from homeownership on paper had the fewest respondents saying it fully delivered (14%) and the largest share saying it only partially delivered (55%). Hometap Half of homeowners describe the dream with a negative word"Evolving" leads overall at 32%, but "eroding" (27%) and "broken" (24%) combined account for 50% of responses. The generational split is notable. Baby boomers are the only generation whose top answer is "eroding," at 38% — nearly double the percentage of that group who said "enduring" (21%). Millennials are the most likely to say "broken," at 26%. The distinction is meaningful: Baby boomers watched something decline, while millennials feel they inherited something that already does not work. The same conclusion arrives from different starting points.Most homeowners still feel owning a home was worth it, but pride is uneven across generationsNearly half of homeowners (49%) describe owning their home as a major achievement, and 66% lean positive overall. Still, 11% describe it as an obligation or more of an obligation than an achievement. Baby boomers are the most likely to call it a major achievement (54%), and millennials the least (47%). Hometap Homeownership brings opportunity, but the benefit isn't evenly feltAbout 45% of homeowners say owning made it easier to pursue the life they wanted. But 30% say it made no real difference, and 25% say it made life harder. Millennials show the widest range — the most likely to say "much easier" (19%) and also the most likely to say "much harder" (10%) — suggesting that for younger owners, homeownership tends to work well or not at all, with less middle ground. Hometap Baby boomers are more pessimistic about homeownership than expectedThe generation widely believed to have benefited most from homeownership gives it the harshest appraisal as an institution. Baby boomers are the only generation whose top descriptor for the dream is "eroding," and they are the least likely to say it fully delivered. They are also the most worried they will need their retirement savings for their own retirement before they can help their children become homeowners, with 63% agreeing or strongly agreeing, compared with 51% of millennials. While their personal experience was largely positive, their view of the system is not.Parental support is now seen as a requirement, and most parents can't provide itSixty-one percent of homeowners agree or strongly agree that the homeownership wealth gap is now so large that parental help is becoming a requirement rather than a bonus. That figure is nearly identical across generations: 62% of millennials, 63% of Gen X, and 63% of baby boomers. Yet only 40% say they have enough resources to help, while 60% do not. The consensus that there’s a problem is near-universal, but most can’t clear the bar. Hometap Home equity is an obvious solution, but almost no one is using itOnly 9% of homeowners say tapping their home equity is their most realistic path to helping their children buy a home. The most common answer remains leaving the home as an inheritance (27%), deferring the transfer of their wealth until death rather than accessing it when it could make a difference. And 59% of homeowners say they have never thought of their home equity as a tool to help their family buy a home — a figure that rises to 69% among baby boomers, the group with the most accumulated equity. The asset is there; the awareness of it as a tool is not. Hometap What homeowners are telling us about the dream in 2026Across generations, the data tells a consistent story. Homeowners still believe in homeownership as a concept, and they still experience it, more often than not, as a positive in their lives. But they are increasingly skeptical that the system is working — not only for themselves, but for the people who will inherit it.The aspiration is durable even as the institution strains. The dream does not die with one generation's skepticism; it gets passed forward, reshaped by what each generation was told, what they experienced, and what they believe is still possible for those who come next.Methodology: The survey was conducted by AYTM on behalf of Hometap from June 21-22, 2026, among 1,000 homeowners in the U.S. ages 18 and over, representing a mix of ages, demographics, and regions. Respondents were recruited through AYTM's online panel and screened to confirm that they own a home. The 14 question survey measured perceptions and sentiments around owning a home and was administered online with randomized multiple-choice options. Figures have been rounded up to the nearest whole number in this article. Results reflect a 95% confidence level with an approximate 3% margin of error.Generations were grouped as follows: millennials ages 25-44, Generation X ages 45-64, and baby boomers ages 65-79.This story was produced by Hometap and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Muscatine’s Oak Street temporarily down to one lane starting Aug. 4 The northbound lane will be shut down due to crane work for installation of a new roof section at the HNI Oak Steel Plant.
	In Nebraska, Americans begin to lose Medicaid under Trump's work rules Nebraska's Medicaid director, in an exclusive interview with nonprofit news organization Tradeoffs, said roughly 200 people will lose health coverage on Aug. 1.
	'I Want Your Sex' urges Gen Z to get a little more X-rated Olivia Wilde plays an artist who initiates a wildly inappropriate sexual relationship with her younger employee. But between the sex scenes, there are thoughtful conversations about age and intimacy.
	Experts say water, air, soil play a role in Iowa’s rising cancer numbers Iowa has the second highest cancer rate in the country. Researchers gathered in Davenport to explain how nitrates, radon, PFAS and pesticides may be driving the numbers — and what residents can do now.
	Are aging parents becoming the most overlooked beneficiaries? A look at the reverse dependency trend Are aging parents becoming the most overlooked beneficiaries? A look at the reverse dependency trendLife insurance planning traditionally focuses on protecting spouses and children from the financial impact of losing a loved one. But changing demographic and economic realities may be reshaping who depends on that protection, Everly Life reports. Aging parents are increasingly becoming financially dependent on their adult children—a growing dynamic called the reverse dependency trend.Today, 10% of all U.S. adults say they are a caregiver for a parent age 65 or older, according to a 2025 Pew survey. Still, these aging parents may be disregarded during beneficiary conversations, creating a gap between traditional estate planning assumptions and the realities of today's multigenerational families.The Blindspot: Why Aging Parents Are Being OverlookedBeneficiary designations traditionally follow a familiar hierarchy: spouses first, children second, with estates serving as a fallback. This structure supports the assumption that parents enter retirement financially independent of their children. In reality, Vanguard research shows that only 40% of Baby Boomers ages 61-65 in the United States are on track to retire comfortably, leaving many to rely on their children for financial supportStill, adult children—particularly those raising families of their own—may not consider naming their parents as beneficiaries for several reasons.Most people assume they will outlive their parents. Data shows that most people outlive their parents — but it’s not guaranteed. According to Evermore, by age 60, 9% of Americans have experienced the death of a child. By age 70 and 80, that number rises to 15% and 20%, respectively.Beneficiary designations aren’t frequently updated. Most people purchase coverage at key moments, like marriage or the birth of a child. So beneficiary decisions naturally center on spouses and dependents. If an aging parent becomes financially dependent after the policy was purchased, the policyholder may not think of updating their designations to reflect this new family structure.This beneficiary blind spot overlooks an important reality: Aging parents may also experience significant financial hardship after the loss of an adult child. As financial dependency becomes increasingly multigenerational, beneficiary decisions may need to consider who, outside of the traditional beneficiary hierarchy, would experience a significant financial impact from the policyholder's death.The Shift: When Families Don’t Notice Reverse DependencyReverse dependency is often gradual: paying for groceries, traveling to appointments, picking up prescriptions. Finally, financial dependency can eventually become the norm. It can be easy to view parents as caregivers even after roles have reversed. As such, it can feel more like "helping” rather than "supporting a dependent.” And sometimes families don’t notice that the reverse dependency has happened. This disconnect may explain why reverse dependency often goes unrecognized in financial planning. Families adapt to changing circumstances one small adjustment at a time, without stopping to reconsider whether beneficiary designations and other planning decisions still reflect who would experience the greatest financial hardship if that support suddenly disappeared.What Reverse Dependency Means for the Life Insurance IndustryThe rise of reverse dependency doesn't suggest that aging parents should replace spouses or children as primary beneficiaries. Rather, it challenges the industry's assumption that financial dependence flows in only one direction. As multigenerational support becomes more common, the life insurance industry's framework for guiding policyholders’ beneficiary discussions may need to evolve. Instead of leaning on traditional family roles as the sole criterion for beneficiary selections, advisors can ask broader questions that help families dig deeper:Who depends on the insured financially?Who would face immediate hardship if that income or support disappeared?Have family circumstances changed since the policy was purchased? The reverse dependency trend represents more than a shift in family finances. It reflects a broader transformation in how Americans support one another across generations. As that transformation continues, beneficiary planning should evolve to recognize that the people most financially affected by a loss are not always those traditional assumptions would predict.This story was produced by Everly Life and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Does driving on gravel hurt your car? Does driving on gravel hurt your car?Driving on gravel roads is sometimes unavoidable—whether you’re heading to a job site, campsite, or just taking the scenic route home. However, the safety of driving on gravel is often questioned because the material can lodge in tires and launch into rocker panels and wheel wells. Below, Husky Liners explores the question, Does driving on gravel hurt your car?The short answer is yes—it can, especially over time. Loose rocks, rutted dirt, and uneven surfaces create conditions that are far harsher on your vehicle than smooth pavement. From chipped paint and cracked windshields to accelerated tire wear and undercarriage damage, gravel roads can take a toll on your vehicle.That said, not all gravel driving does the same amount of damage. With the right habits and a bit of preventative care, you can significantly reduce wear and keep your truck or SUV in solid shape—even if gravel roads are part of your daily drive.Are Gravel Roads Bad for Cars?While gravel roads aren’t inherently bad, they’re generally harder on vehicles than paved roads since they increase the risk of physical damage, such as scrapes, rock chips, chewed-up tires, and debris buildup.Unlike pavement, gravel surfaces are loose and somewhat unstable, especially at high speeds. Tires can kick up individual rocks, traction is significantly reduced, and your vehicle is subjected to constant impacts. Over time, these harsh conditions can negatively impact your vehicle in numerous ways, including paint damage, suspension wear, and more.Scratches, Scuffs, and ChipsPaint damage is perhaps the most significant risk associated with driving on gravel roads. Not just because of the cosmetic damage, but also because of the increased likelihood of rust, especially if bare metal is exposed.As rocks are kicked up into rocker panels and other painted surfaces, small paint chips, scratches, and scuffs often result—especially on lower doors, rockers, and wheel wells. Repeated damage over time can significantly impact your vehicle’s finish.Rust and CorrosionAs noted above, gravel roads can also indirectly lead to corrosion, especially in areas with heavy moisture. When kicked-up rocks and debris chips away at your vehicle’s undercarriage and protective coatings, they expose the underlying metal surfaces. Once exposed to moisture, road salt, and grime, rust will soon follow, making repair difficult.Accelerated Tire WearDue to gravel’s rough, jagged edges, gravel roads tend to be harsher on tires than asphalt. As a result, tires wear faster and more unevenly. Sharp stones can also drill between tread blocks, compromising the tire’s structure.Dents and DingsLarger gravel and rocks can do more than just scratch and chip your vehicle’s paint. If kicked up with enough velocity, these projectiles can leave noticeable dents and dings in body panels.Dents are especially common when driving on gravel at higher speeds or following another vehicle, as kicked-up stones can strike your hood, doors, bed, or roof hard enough to leave a dent.Windshield DamageIf you’re driving on a gravel road that’s frequently traveled by other drivers, then it isn’t only debris from your own car that you have to worry about. Just as rocks lodge into and eject from your own vehicle’s tires, they also do so from other drivers’. If you follow another vehicle too closely, rocks and debris from its tires can pepper the front of your vehicle, posing a significant risk of a cracked windshield.Reduced Fuel EconomyAside from the typically cited penalties of driving on gravel roads, like rock chips and other damages, another downside that most drivers don't consider is reduced fuel economy. Compared to standard paved roads, surfaces like dirt and gravel produce far more rolling resistance, which can reduce fuel economy by as much as 25 percent.While driving down a gravel driveway to your home likely won't be enough to notice a fuel efficiency difference, driving down miles of gravel roads daily will—something to consider if you’re weighing the pros and cons of taking an off-highway detour.Suspension Wear and TearGravel roads aren’t perfectly flat. Their uneven surface puts additional stress on your vehicle’s suspension system, while constant vibrations and dips make your vehicle’s suspension work harder than it would on pavement.These combined qualities can cause rapid wear and tear on components like struts, bushings, and shocks.How to Reduce Wear and Tear When Driving on Gravel or Dirt RoadsDriving on gravel roads will always be harder on your vehicle than pavement; however, you can choose just how much more stress is placed on your vehicle via your driving habits. In general, driving on gravel road tips focus on minimizing impact, reducing suspension cycling, and protecting vulnerable parts of your vehicle.Take It SlowReducing your speed on a gravel road is one of the easiest ways to protect your vehicle from damage. Slower speeds reduce the force of rocks and debris hitting your vehicle and minimize suspension and undercarriage stress. Additionally, dropping a few MPH will help to maintain traction and control.Don’t Follow Too CloseTailgating on gravel roads is a quick way to damage your vehicle—and yes, damaging your own car from following another too close is your fault, not the other driver’s. When you follow another vehicle too closely, you’re practically inviting trouble onto your own car. Doing so puts you directly in the path of rocks and debris kicked up by their tires, leading to chipped paint, cracked windshields, dents, and more.Adjust Tire PressureWhile adjusting tire pressure is often considered only necessary on harsh terrain, slightly reducing PSI (by approximately 25-30 percent) can also improve comfort and safety on gravel. Airing down to approximately 20-28 PSI can soften the tire’s sidewall and increase its contact patch, promoting superior traction and a softer, more compliant ride. Additionally, more compliance reduces friction and the likelihood of rock punctures, potentially extending tire life so long as speed is reduced accordingly.Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF)One of the most popular solutions for rock chips and dings is PPF, or Paint Protection Film. This durable, self-healing coating offers outstanding protection and is virtually invisible, making it a solid option for those who want to retain stock aesthetics while providing better paint protection than stock.While applying PPF to an entire vehicle is possible, the main points of impact for a vehicle driving on a gravel road include the rocker panels, quarter panels, and hood. At a minimum, protecting these locations will significantly reduce damage risk.Install Skid Plates and Undercarriage ProtectionProtective upgrades can make a big difference if you frequently drive on gravel. Accessories like skid plates, mud flaps and splash guards can help shield critical components, such as the oil pan, transmission, and fuel tank, from rocks and debris.Wash Your Vehicle After Driving on GravelIf you regularly drive on mud, gravel, or dirt roads, you should wash your vehicle—especially the undercarriage—frequently. Caked-on dirt and debris are among the quickest ways to accelerate rust and corrosion, dramatically shortening your vehicle's service life.With regular washes and undercarriage rinses, you’ll help to prevent rust. Additionally, it’s easier to identify and touch up chipped paint on a clean vehicle, preventing rust before it starts.FAQsQ: How Fast Should You Drive on Gravel?A: Typically, you should drive around 25 and 40 MPH on gravel roads, depending on the conditions. Speeds any faster and you’re putting yourself and your vehicle at risk.Q: Does Driving on Gravel Ruin Tires?A: No, driving on gravel won’t ruin your tires. However, it will wear them faster than normal. Gravel increases friction and, due to sharp edges, can cause minor cuts, slashes, and uneven wear over time.Q: Is Driving on Gravel Bad for a Car?A: Not necessarily, though it is harder on a vehicle than driving on pavement. Occasional gravel driving isn’t a major issue, but frequent gravel driving without preventative care can lead to premature cosmetic and mechanical wear.Q: Can Gravel Roads Damage Your Undercarriage?A: Yes, gravel roads can damage your undercarriage, especially if rocks strike delicate components like wiring harnesses and sensors. Installing skid plates and underbody protection can significantly reduce the risk of damage.Q: Should I Lower My Tire Pressure on Gravel Roads?A: Yes. Dropping tire pressure to approximately 20-28 PSI will soften sidewalls and increase tire contact patches, improving traction and ride quality over rough, gravel roads.Q: Can Gravel Roads Chip Your Windshield?A: Yes, though primarily if you’re following another driver closely. Projectiles can travel over 200 feet when launched from a tire via centrifugal force, causing damage to vehicles following within this range. Keep your distance, and your windshield should survive.This story was produced by Husky Liners and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Our QC Crime Watch: Law cries foul when driver hits Canada geese: Episode 75 Watch crime reporters Linda Cook and Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in our area with the latest episode of the Our Quad Cities Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode Linda and Sharon discuss: updates on: A judge rules on who can testify in the upcoming trial of the suspect in Trudy Appleby's death [...]
	Cinemark announces record-breaking second quarter Cinemark Holdings, Inc., one of the largest theatrical exhibition companies in the world, has announced record-breaking results for the second quarter 2026, according to a news release. The second quarter marks the first time Cinemark - which has a multiplex in Davenport - has surpassed $1 billion in quarterly revenue, which is attributable to its best-ever [...]
	How to safeguard your home from the hidden costs of power outages (BPT) - When you think of power outages, you may initially imagine a minor inconvenience: You're grabbing flashlights because you're in the dark briefly, until power is restored. But recent extreme weather events combined with the aging power grid in many parts of the country have led to extended outages that can last not just hours but days or even longer, with essential appliances like your refrigerator and freezer losing power.At a time when grocery prices are soaring, the last thing you want is to lose an entire fridge and freezer full of food, not to mention other crucial items that need refrigeration and are hard to replace. If you've ever had to throw out a week's worth of spoiled food, you know how disheartening it can be, not to mention the strain it can put on your household budget.On top of that, many other systems and devices in your home rely on power that you may not even think about. A gap in power can shut down your home office and Wi-Fi setup in the middle of a workday. Losing power can keep your fish tank's filtration system and your plug-in recliner from working.These quiet, everyday essentials depend on one outlet working, so how can you ensure they keep running, no matter what? You need an emergency power supply.Protecting home necessities with backup powerTo make sure you never have to discard all your hard-earned groceries or worry about key appliances in your home not functioning, you need a reliable source of backup power that doesn't rely on the power grid.Enter FridgeGuard, the world's slimmest smart fridge backup from Jackery, a global leader in portable power stations and solar generators. FridgeGuard is purpose-built to protect your home's most essential, always-on appliance designed to set up once and remain ready. It switches to battery power in under 10 milliseconds, which is fast enough that your refrigerator's compressor never registers a gap, and its 1600W peak output is specifically sized to handle the compressor's startup surge. Thanks to 1024 Watt hours (Wh) of capacity, FridgeGuard delivers up to 15 hours of runtime (or 30 hours with an expansion battery). FridgeGuard also enables efficient, money-saving home energy planning. Its intelligent remote monitoring tracks energy use in real time, letting you delay output when needed, and craft personalized Time-of-Use scheduling with off-peak charging to keep your energy costs lower.Best yet, if your FridgeGuard's battery is depleted but the power grid is still down, FridgeGuard supports recharging via solar panels and even a car to avoid downtime throughout longer-term emergencies.While your fridge is the focus of this backup battery, the same power can also keep your fish tank filtration system running, ensure that your plug-in recliner or lift chair is still operating, power your home office and Wi-Fi router without interruption.Using an LiFePO4 battery platform that retains at least 70% capacity after 6,000 cycles, which comes out to 16 years of daily use, FridgeGuard is engineered for long-term reliability. Backed by a 5-year warranty and UL1778, UL1741 and UL1973 safety certifications, the backup battery is made from UL94-5VA flame-retardant materials, plus an integrated surge protection and grid anomaly safeguards.Streamlined design that can be used anywhereSpace limitations? No worries. FridgeGuard is built with a slim, wall-mountable 2.6-inch profile that's designed to blend seamlessly and quietly into your kitchen, or wherever its companion appliance is. For placement flexibility, you can tailor its orientation precisely to any kitchen layout with either floor-standing, bracket-mounted or wall-mounted configuration options.But you won't necessarily want FridgeGuard hidden away. With four prestigious design awards, including the iF Design Award 2026, it combines form and function all in one, providing the minimalistic and refined look a modern home deserves, along with backup capabilities that give homes the long-term energy backup solution they need.The setup is easy: Simply connect FridgeGuard to a traditional wall outlet and plug your refrigerator or other essential device into FridgeGuard directly. FridgeGuard's streamlined, always-ready dependability eliminates the hassle of having to move anything around when a storm hits.Rising electricity costs, persistent inflation, the increasing frequency of extreme weather and growing grid instability are all prompting more homeowners to rethink the importance of home energy self-reliance. Now you can keep your refrigerator and most essential appliances running, no matter what the grid is doing.Visit Jackery.com to learn more about FridgeGuard. FridgeGuard has launched as a Costco exclusive, available at Costco.com and at physical locations in select regions.FridgeGuard features a single AC outlet capable of supporting a total continuous draw of 800W.
	Researching how Individualized Neoantigen Therapies may help a patient's immune system target their cancer in a personalized way (BPT) - As cancer research continues to move forward, scientists are increasingly recognizing that cancer is not the same for everyone. Even people with the same diagnosis can have very different experiences. This realization is shifting thinking away from one-size-fits-all treatment approaches and toward a better understanding of what makes each person's cancer unique.By learning more about the genetic makeup of a person's tumor, researchers can begin to see those differences more clearly and use them to guide future scientific and clinical advances.A Novel ApproachMerck and Moderna are working together to explore an innovative approach to cancer care — one that seeks to address each individual's cancer with a "one medicine for one patient" mindset. This research centers on an individualized neoantigen therapy (INT) approach, which is designed with the intent to train and activate a patient's immune system to specifically identify and then destroy cancer cells.Every person's tumor has a distinct "fingerprint" made up of mutated genes resulting in abnormal proteins, called neoantigens. An INT, leveraging mRNA as the body's instruction-carrying molecule, could help train a patient's immune cells to recognize these cancer "fingerprints" as foreign and potentially launch an immune response against those cancer cells to help their own body fight back."Because the genetic makeup of a patient's cancer is unique to that person, we believe there is a need for innovative therapies that can be tailored to a patient's tumor with the potential to enhance immune surveillance for each person's specific cancer," said Dr. Vassiliki Karantza, Associate Vice President, Global Clinical Development, Merck Research Laboratories.Using these insights, researchers identify genetic mutations of a patient's cancer by performing an analysis of their blood and tumor samples to select which neoantigens may be best suited to activate the patient's immune cells. An INT is then created with the intent to specifically treat the individual patient's cancer."Our teams are working relentlessly to explore this new approach, which is grounded in the fact that every patient's cancer has unique features," said Dr. Michelle Brown, Head of Oncology Portfolio Development at Moderna. "Made possible by mRNA technology, this approach could represent a shift toward more personalized care in cancer, where we design therapies based on each patient's specific biology — moving us toward creating one medicine for one patient."Research UnderwayResearchers are currently conducting studies to better understand how INTs may help train the body's immune system. There are currently no U.S. FDA-approved individualized neoantigen therapies.For more information about ongoing research in cancer, visit: Merck.com or Moderna.com.This information is provided by Merck and Moderna.Copyright © 2026 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.
	The Hidden Reason Some Wedding Guests Are RSVPing No (BPT) - Key takeawaysA recent Accredited Debt Relief survey found that eight in 10 people with at least $10k in unsecured debt skipped at least one event or activity in the last year, including weddings.The cost isn't just financial. According to the survey, 68% of respondents feel anxiety when receiving an invitation.A debt consolidation program can help Americans take back control of their finances and allow them to say yes to important celebrations.Are you considering skipping a loved one's wedding? You're not alone. Weddings aren't just expensive for the happy couple. Guests feel the pinch, too.Leading up to the big day, there's a laundry list of expenses: buying an outfit, paying for travel and a hotel room, purchasing a gift and arranging childcare. Given the cost of attending, it should come as no surprise that some Americans are skipping a loved one's wedding due to already struggling financially.RSVPs are not a simple yes or noDebt reshapes social life, relationships and everyday decisions. For Americans carrying serious unsecured debt, attending social events is no longer a simple yes-or-no decision. Every invitation comes with a quiet financial calculation. Many are navigating a third RSVP option they rarely say out loud: I want to be there, but I cannot afford what saying yes will cost me.To better understand how debt impacts a person's life, Accredited Debt Relief and Drive Research conducted a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults with at least $10k in unsecured debt. The survey found that nearly eight in 10 respondents skipped at least one event or activity in the past year because of debt, including:A weddingA group trip or vacationDinner, concert or night outBirthday or anniversary celebrationHoliday celebration with familyMilestone party (shower or graduation)Every invitation comes with a quiet financial calculation. Many people in debt are navigating a third RSVP option they rarely say out loud: I want to be there, but I cannot afford what saying yes will cost me.Saying no to an important event like a sibling's wedding, a niece's graduation or a lifelong friend's birthday can be incredibly painful and take an emotional toll. According to the survey, 68% of respondents feel anxiety when receiving an invitation because they worry about the cost, and 57% worry that their debt makes them seem like a bad friend, partner or family member.The stigma and privacy concerns surrounding debt may also make it harder to explain why an invitation is declined. In fact, 58% have made up a nonfinancial excuse to skip events they couldn't afford to protect their privacy rather than admit they are struggling. Not only are these Americans carrying debt, but they're also carrying the emotional weight of guilt and embarrassment.Moving forward with the right supportYou don't have to keep missing major life celebrations because of debt. One way you can break the cycle and regain control of your finances is through debt consolidation.When you sign up for a debt consolidation program like one through Accredited Debt Relief, you can replace high minimum payments across multiple accounts with one, lower monthly payment. With more room in your monthly budget, you can start building a financial life that lets you say yes to joyous occasions with friends and family more often.Every situation is different, and the right option depends on your unique financial situation. To get a free debt evaluation and see what options are available to you, visit AccreditedDebtRelief.com/Free-Quote.
	4 Healthy Habits to Prepare the Body and Mind for Back-to-School (BPT) - As the busy back-to-school season approaches, establishing healthy routines now can help students and their families feel more physically and mentally prepared for a successful start to the school year.To support families as they prepare, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers these helpful tips for reducing stress and boosting energy every day.Ease into a new scheduleAfter a summer full of inconsistent schedules, it can be a challenge for kids and parents alike to adapt to the more rigorous school year routine. To make this transition a lot smoother, begin adapting to a back-to-school schedule about two weeks before classes start. By gradually shifting bedtime and wake-up times 15 minutes earlier every few days, everyone will find it a lot easier to wake up energized every morning.Power down before bedBuilding healthy bedtime habits can make it easier to get the quality sleep your body needs. To help wind down at the end of the day, Blatner recommends limiting screen time about 60 minutes before bed."Reducing exposure to phones, tablets and other electronic devices in the evening can help promote more restful sleep, which makes it easier to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead."Wake up the body and mindA consistent morning routine can help reduce stress and set a positive tone before the school day begins. Blatner recommends incorporating 5 to 10 minutes of dynamic stretching, such as arm circles, leg swings, shoulder rolls or walking lunges to help wake up both the body and mind.These dynamic movements help increase blood flow, loosen muscles after sleep and improve alertness, helping you start the day feeling energized and prepared for whatever's ahead.Start your day with a balanced breakfastBeginning each morning with a balanced breakfast is one of the best ways to fuel focus, support steady energy and prepare both kids and parents for a busy day ahead. Blatner recommends combining high-quality protein with colorful vegetables to help support overall wellness throughout the school and workdays.One easy way to put that advice into action is by making these Broccoli & Cheddar Egg Muffins from Eggland's Best. Made with protein-rich eggs, broccoli, cheddar cheese and red bell pepper, they're a nourishing grab-and-go breakfast that makes busy school mornings a little easier.Eggland's Best eggs contain more than double the Vitamin B12 compared to ordinary eggs to help support energy between breakfast and lunchtime. Eggland's Best eggs also contain six times more Vitamin D to support your cognitive wellness and motor function. Plus, Eggland's Best eggs have 25% less saturated fat, more than double the Omega-3s and ten times more Vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs.Broccoli & Cheddar Egg MuffinsPrep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 18-20 minutes; Yield: 12.Ingredients8 Eggland's Best eggs, large1/4 cup milk at room temperature1 cup broccoli florets1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese1/4 cup diced red bell pepper2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnishPreparationPreheat Oven to 350°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.Mix in chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced red bell pepper into the egg mixture.Pour the egg mixture into the muffin cups about 3/4 full.Place the muffin tin in a larger baking dish. Carefully pour hot water into the larger dish, filling it about halfway up the sides of the muffin tin.Bake for 18-20 minutes until the egg cups are set.Allow the egg cups to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, then garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.Pro tips: Bake these muffins the night before and store them in an airtight container for an easy breakfast that saves time on hectic weekday mornings.Find this and more recipe inspiration at Egglandsbest.com/recipes."Positive daily habits and good nutrition can make a big difference to support overall health and well-being, especially at times of transition that can be stressful for both kids and adults," added Blatner.By following these tips, you and your family will feel ready to start the school year with more pep in your step.
	Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, West Branch, plans grand reopening The Hoover Presidential Foundation has announced a lineup of distinguished speakers and honored guests for the grand reopening of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum on Thursday, Aug. 6, a news release says. The historic celebration marks the completion of the museum's comprehensive renovation and ushers in a new era of education and engagement [...]
	'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' grounds Spidey — and much of the fun His Spidey senses are evolving and he misses his friends.
	Moderate to heavy rain expected into the weekend After a pleasant, dry week, much-needed rain is likely across the Quad Cities Friday and Saturday. The rain will hold temperatures down to the 70s today and tomorrow. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Dry conditions expanded this week The new Drought Monitor update showed expanding dry weather for the Quad Cities area and even a moderate drought for parts of northern Illinois. However, much-needed rain is likely Friday and Saturday.
	Roline This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Every few decades, the cities surrounding Rock Island come down with a severe case of togetherness. They shift into a…
	Who's driving a bookmobile full of Epstein files? The quiz knows! Plus: scandalous Senate drama, Grammys drama and Homeric drama.
	450k borrowers say they were ripped off. Their student loans are being erased The borrowers say they were defrauded by their colleges, but the class-action lawsuit to erase their federal student loans has been tangled up in courts for years.
	Trump's noncitizen voter data remains a mystery. But the claims raise midterm fears Trump officials say they found 250,000 noncitizens on voter rolls in just four states. Those states don't know where the numbers came from, and some worry what the claims may portend for the midterms.
	Democrats show divisions on Israel amid competitive midterm elections Democratic socialists are on the ballot in high profile races coming up in Michigan and Wisconsin, putting mainstream Democrats in a tough position when it comes to the issue of Israel and Gaza.
	Cook review: 'Spider-Man' weaves together comedy, drama, plenty of action Only the phobiest of technophobes might not appreciate this new side of Spidey. In "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," Peter Parker (Tom Holland) has an AI assistant and a 3D printer that creates his suits. But of course that's not all there is to this web-slinging superhero, who at the outset of this tale is much-loved. [...]
	Public health alert issued for steak burritos due to undeclared allergen The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a public health alert for Red's Steak Cilantro and Lime Burritos distributed to Costco locations in Illinois, Michigan, and Minnesota due to an undeclared egg allergen.
	Spain deploys military to Ceuta after thousands of people breach Morocco's border Spain will deploy its military to restore order at its border with Morocco in Ceuta after thousands of migrants streamed into the tiny Spanish territory, with at least nine dying in the attempt.
	At least 18 die after breach of border between Morocco and Spanish exclave of Ceuta At least 18 migrants have died trying to reach the Spanish exclave of Ceuta, where Spain deployed its military after thousands of people breached the border with Morocco and poured into the territory.
	Death toll from southwestern Japan quake climbs to 34 Searchers continued to work in the Kumamoto area, including at the site of the collapsed mall, where some of the most serious damage was recorded.
	Trump announces a deal for Hamas to disarm, but many hurdles and uncertainty remain President Trump says a deal has been reached for Hamas to disarm and Israel to withdraw its forces from Gaza. But many hurdles, conditions and long timelines remain to wind down the war in the Palestinian territory.
Thursday, July 30th, 2026
	LumberKings dominate Lucky Horseshoes 16-4 The Clinton LumberKings dominated the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes 16-4 in seven innings.
	Roger Craig’s brothers reflect on Hall of Fame enshrinement For the first time, a Quad Cities native will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Davenport Central football legend Roger Craig is set to receive the honor in Canton next weekend.
	BookTrib’s Bites: What We Survive, What We Become (BookTrib) - “Redemption Initiative: The Good Samaritan” by C.L. MorrisseyOnce, Desi Delgado was exactly the kind of criminal society feared: violent, impulsive and consumed by addiction. Eight years in prison changed the course of his life, but not the weight of his past. Now a successful businessman and co-founder of a halfway house, Desi is determined to keep others from repeating his mistakes. When a violent crime strikes close to home, he creates Redemption Initiative, a covert program that uses immersive technology to force offenders to confront the full reality of the harm they've caused. But can accountability be engineered? Can the process unlock the innate ability to be reformed? Can true remorse be measured and verified? In “Redemption Initiative: The Good Samaritan,” C.L. Morrissey blends crime fiction with provocative moral questions, exploring the uneasy space where punishment ends, redemption begins, and justice itself is reimagined.Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/redemption-initiative.“The Realm of Ruin” by Carson Zan HughesIn “The Realm of Ruin,” exile is not an escape from the world — it is the place where the unwanted are sent to be forgotten. For Nyla, a fiercely loyal hunter torn from her family, and Jester, a bold teenager who refuses to surrender, the Realm is a brutal wasteland of monsters, outlawed magic and secrets no one dares name. After barely surviving an attack on their village, they are drawn into a monster-hunting guild led by Dice, a leader whose easy smile hides hard-won experience. But each hunt reveals that the Realm is more than a prison. It is a crucible, built to test, break and transform those trapped inside it. Dark, fast-paced and filled with danger, Carson Zan Hughes’ fantasy adventure asks what survival costs — and what someone must become when the world has already cast them aside. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4eE87O4.“Casey Dancer: A Memoir About Dating, Stripping, and a Little Hot Yoga” by Kristin CaseyAt 39, nearly a decade sober and struggling through a real estate slump, Kristin Casey returns to the work she once thought she had left behind: stripping. To her surprise, stepping back into Austin’s clubs restores not only her finances but also a sense of confidence, purpose and control.Then she meets Lalo, a married former drug dealer whose charm and volatility pull her into an intense relationship. As romance, financial pressure and old emotional wounds collide, Casey begins confronting the patterns that have shaped her choices — especially her attraction to unavailable men and her fear of depending on anyone.Interspersed with candid entries from her popular stripper blog, “Casey Dancer” is unfiltered, sexually frank and frequently very funny. Hot yoga becomes both refuge and metaphor as Casey works toward greater strength, firmer boundaries and a life defined on her own terms. It is a memoir about sex work, sobriety and the difficult practice of becoming fully yourself.Purchase at https://amzn.to/4aG3jXj. “What the Trees Remember” by Abigail CutterAt 93, Dora Minor has spent most of her life atop Horseshoe Mountain, carrying secrets nearly as old as the trees surrounding her home. When Hurricane Camille unleashes a catastrophic flood across Nelson County in 1969, Dora faces the storm with only her two dogs — and the memories she has long avoided.Her story reaches back to post-Civil War Virginia, where she is raised by her fiercely independent grandmother Alma in a Quaker family committed to racial equality. When Dora’s father helps open a school for Black children, the family becomes a target of violent resistance. Loss, betrayal and a horrifying act Dora witnesses as a child shape the isolated woman she becomes.Moving between Dora’s coming of age and the night of the flood, Abigail Cutter’s deeply researched historical novel explores racial violence, moral courage and the weight of silence, while finding resilience and hard-won hope in the natural world.Purchase at https://amzn.to/4vPefto.
	Proposed sports complex in Coal Valley clears first zoning hurdle Coal Valley's zoning board recommends the piece of land at Route 6 and Niabi Zoo Road be rezoned from residential to commercial, but neighbors aren't happy.
	River Bandits, Modern Woodmen of America team up for student book drive Baseball wasn't the only thing happening Thursday at Modern Woodmen Park, Davenport, where Modern Woodmen of America teamed up with the River Bandits for a book drive. Fans could donate books to the cause. The books then will be given to 10 schools for students in kindergarten through eighth grade in the Quad Cities area. [...]
	Bench trial begins Thursday for Mercer Co. superintendent The bench trial for former Mercer County school superintendent Timothy Farquer began Thursday.
	Oak Street, Muscatine, reduced to one lane HNI plant gets new roof section Oak Street in Muscatine will be reduced to one lane of traffic between 2nd and 5th streets, from Tuesday, Aug. 4 -Friday, Aug. 2, a news release says. The northbound lane will be closed to accommodate a crane assisting in the installation of a new roof section at the HNI Oak Steel Plant. The east [...]
	August declared No-Kill Shelter Month in Illinois Governor JB Pritzker proclaimed August as No-Kill Shelter Month in Illinois. Pritzker emphasized his commitment to making the entire state no-kill. According to a release from Best Friends Animal Society: This critical initiative underscores Illinois’ commitment to making the entire state no-kill, which means saving every healthy or treatable pet in shelters. The release says [...]
	Trinity Muscatine Public Health to host 5th annual Back-to-School Health Clinic Trinity Muscatine Public Health is hosting the fifth annual Back-To-School Health Clinic next week, according to a media release.
	Residents speak out about proposed Coal Valley sports complex Residents packed the house for a Coal Valley sports complex rezoning meeting. Developer Kevin Chumbley presented his plans for the complex. The Crete Life Sports Complex, to be located on Route 6, is set to feature baseball and softball diamonds, batting cages, pickleball courts, a playground and a camping lot. About 50 people showed up [...]
	Bed bugs are on the rise in Davenport, exterminator says A new report from Orkin ranks Davenport 19th in the nation for bed bug treatments over the past year, and local experts say they’re seeing more cases across eastern Iowa and western Illinois.
	Davenport Speedway announces eight more Hall of Fame inductees Eight more inductees to the Davenport Speedway Hall of Fame have been announced. The inductees were chosen through the work of the selection committee and the result from a fan vote. Four from the pre-1970s era and four people from the post-1970 era were elected. Here are the individuals who have been inducted to the [...]
	Rock Island police investigating armed robbery at vape shop Investigators believe a suspect, described as a Black male with his face partially concealed, entered the store with a handgun and demanded money from the register.
	The Heart of the Story: Let's go camping! Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. Summer's not over yet, and you may still [...]
	Tools for Schools supply drive receives donation from Elevate Trampoline Park An Elevate Trampoline Park rep stops by WQAD with a donation during a daylong school supply drive on July 29.
	Attorney change delays former Quad City Arts interim director's detention hearing Former Quad City Arts interim director Benjamin Morris remains jailed after a judge delayed his detention hearing following a change in defense attorneys.

Friday, July 31st, 2026

Thursday, July 30th, 2026