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

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026
	QCA Culture Bright Summer Series launches in August The Culture Bright Summer Series runs August 16-23. According to a release from The Cultural Trust, the series is "an eight-day celebration designed to establish the Quad Cities as the most inclusive creative capital in the Midwest." Culture Bright Summer Series focuses on music, art, storytelling, accessibility and community. The series is a collaboration between [...]
	Britain left the EU 10 years ago. Its politics has been an unruly mess Brexit fractured the European Union, and broke British politics. A decade on, millions of voters have deserted the two big parties for alternatives.
	What to know about a cold storage warehouse fire in Los Angeles Firefighters are still battling a blaze at a massive frozen-food storage facility near downtown Los Angeles six days after the fire started.
	Authorities arrest 2 more suspects in planned attack on Trump's UFC show Two more people in Missouri and Washington state have been arrested in connection with the planned attack. Law enforcement officials learned about the possible threat on June 10, four days before the event on the White House's South Lawn.
Monday, June 22nd, 2026
	$2.9 M in federal funds available for Davenport flood mitigation project Davenport could get $2.9 million in federal funds for a flood mitigation project.
	Eagle released back into the wild after being treated for lead poisoning Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab released an eagle back to its natural habitat after treating it for lead poisoning.
	Three Downtown Muscatine buildings cleared for reentry, business owners and residents await answers A downtown Muscatine business owner and displaced resident are remaining hopeful as inspections continue following building evacuations.
	Teenage victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	2027 Missouri Valley Conference Women's Basketball Championship will not be held in the Quad Cities The tournament moved to other cities for 2025 and 2026, but was set to return to Vibrant Arena in 2027. Here's what officials said about the change.
	Iowa joins lawsuit against phasing out single-use plastic products Iowa joined a lawsuit against a California law intended to phase out single-use plastic products. California implemented the Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (Senate Bill 54), mandating products can only be sold in California if companies take plastic out of their packaging design. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird says the law imposes [...]
	Lead-poisoned eagle returns to wild after 3 months of recovery in Kewanee Three months ago, when Princeton, Ill., residents Ken and Susan Arbuckle let their dog out early in the morning, they found a bald eagle in their yard. "Susan walked out and she came back to the house and asked me 'How do we get a bald eagle out of our yard?' And I thought, 'What?" [...]
	Federal judge blocks bans on SNAP use for soda A federal judge has blocked bans on the usage of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for soda enacted by the Trump administration.
	Clinton city administrator finalists meet public Clinton residents got a chance to meet three finalists for the next city administrator Monday afternoon. Lou Leone, Joe Gaa and Brian Stineman came to Clinton City Hall for a meet-and-greet session. Leone worked as the city administrator for Harvard, Illinois, for 10 years. He wants to develop more housing to bring people into the [...]
	Vander Veer Stone Fountain to not turn on this year, parks and recreation officials say The Davenport Parks & Recreation Department says they have some disappointing news to share that the Vander Veer Stone Fountain will not turn on this year.
	Walcott woman pushed child outside naked and filmed it deputies say Ware is in the Scott County Jail on a $250,000 cash-only bond. She has a preliminary hearing on July 2.
	Traffic on 13th Avenue North, Clinton, will be reduced to one lane for construction Beginning Tuesday, June 23, traffic on 13th Avenue North between 11th Street and 14th Street in Clinton will be reduced to one lane because of ongoing construction related to the 13th Avenue North Trail project, a news release says. This temporary lane reduction will be in effect throughout the construction period. Traffic control measures will [...]
	Free admission returns to Figge Art Museum for month of July Your free admission will get you into all four floors of the Figge as well as a full month of programs and activities for adults and children.
	Iowa soybeans blooming and corn silking behind schedule Corn and soybean growth in Iowa is slightly behind pace compared to last year and the five-year average, according to the latest crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
	Cinemark sets box-office record with 'Toy Story 5' Cinemark Holdings, Inc., one of the largest exhibition companies in the world - and with a cineplex in Davenport - has announced its all-time biggest three-day opening weekend domestic box office for a G- or PG-rated film with "Toy Story 5," a news release says. Strong carryover from recent releases like "Disclosure Day" and "Obsession" contributed to Cinemark delivering its [...]
	Moline 250 event to feature music, fireworks and family activities You can join in on the free, family-friendly festivities on July 1 & 2 which will culminate in the city's first Fourth of July fireworks show.
	Next phase of Washington Street resurfacing to begin Tuesday in Burlington Beginning Tuesday, the intersection at Fourth Street will be closed to all vehicle traffic and pedestrians.
	Illinois trailer park evacuated after home explosion early Monday One person was seriously injured after a manufactured home exploded in Dixon. Elevated gas levels prompted the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
	Iowa gubernatorial candidates appeal beyond party lines Iowa has nearly 200,000 more registered Republicans than Democrats. It’s why Democrat Rob Sand is encouraging Iowans to vote for more than just an R or a D.
	Device and Conquer: “Toy Story 5,” “The Death of Robin Hood,” and “Leviticus” Thirty-one years after the franchise's debut, Disney/Pixar's latest animated comedy adventure is unusual in at least one regard: It's the first Toy Story that might be more fun to think about, and argue about, than actually watch.
	Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to reopen after major renovation After nearly two years behind closed doors, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is preparing to welcome visitors back with a completely reimagined museum experience.
	Whitey’s hosting 40th Cones for Kids fundraiser Monday Half the sales of all cones sold Monday will benefit Bethany for Children and Families.
	Students learn hands-on electrical trade skills at summer camp program The Heavy Metal Summer Experience returned to the QC Electrical Training Center in Moline for its second year Monday offering an immersive trade experience for Quad Cities students.
	Mobile home park residents allowed to return home after evacuation for high gas levels after explosion Officials said the people who live in the Chateau Estates are allowed to return home as of around 5 p.m., according to a media release.
	Heavy rain yesterday sends us over the mark for June A complete washout from Father's Day yesterday in the Quad Cities as lots of heavy rain spanned from early in the morning to early in the evening. Rain totals from across the Quad Cities showing many areas receiving over 2 inches of rain from yesterday's showers. After that rain came down and numbers were added [...]
	COLD CASE BREAKTHROUGH: Clinton County Jane Doe identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards After 51 years, Jane Doe 1975 found in the Mississippi River in Clinton County in 1975 has been identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards of Waukegan, Illinois.
	A federal judge finds a Trump data system to verify voters is unlawful Tens of millions of voters have had their data run through the Trump administration's revamped SAVE tool. A judge just found it unlawful.
	Teen victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	Bethany for Children & Families partners with Whitey's for 'Cones for Kids' 50% of the proceeds for each scoop of ice cream bought on Monday, June 22 goes to Bethany for Children and Families.
	'Moline 250' event to be held to celebrate America's 250th anniversary The two-day event will be held July 1 and 2 with free activities for families and more.
	Bethany for Children & Families partners with Whitey's for annual 'Cones for Kids' event 50% of the proceeds for each scoop of ice cream bought on Monday, June 22 goes to Bethany for Children and Families.
	Quad Cities area's first eating disorder program launches at UnityPoint Health Robert Young Center The intensive outpatient program runs four hours a day Monday through Friday.
	Iowa State to allow alcohol sales at sporting events starting this fall Because of the policy change, fans will no longer be allowed to leave Jack Trice and re-enter the stadium during games.
	Suspect in Iowa City Pedestrian Mall shooting pleads not guilty 17-year-old Damarian Jones of Cedar Rapids faces a litany of charges, including five counts of attempted murder.
	Longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa identified after more than 50 years Jane Doe 1975 was identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards, 15, from Waukegan, Illinois, according to a media release.
	Juvenile victim identified in 1975 Clinton cold case Before being identified, Clinton law enforcement officials believe 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards was the longest unidentified Jane Doe in Iowa.
	Homicide victim missing since 1975 has been identified: Clinton County Sheriff's Office A homicide victim who has been missing since 1975 has been identified, according to a news release from the Clinton County Sheriff's Office. On April 11, 1975, the Clinton County Sheriff's Office responded to a report of a deceased person in the Mississippi River north of Clinton, about half a mile south of the Jackson [...]
	Illinois breaks record for number of tornadoes in one year Illinois breaks record for number of tornadoes in one year
	Longest unidentified Jane Done in Iowa identified after more than 50 years Jane Doe 1975 was identified as Cheryl Lynn Edwards, 15, from Waukegan, Illinois, according to a media release.
	Government Bridge closing for roadway sealing The Rock Island Arsenal Directorate of Public Works will close both the Government Bridge and the Rock Island Viaduct to vehicle traffic on Saturday, June 27 from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. for roadway sealing. Pedestrian, railroad and river navigation will not be affected. Signs will alert and direct traffic.
	Supreme Court declines to hear Texas man's intellectual disability case in capital case The court's action means Victor Saldaño is likely to be executed even though both defense and state experts determined he was not eligible for execution under the law.
	How investors spot Airbnb cash cows before everyone else (and how you can too) How investors spot Airbnb cash cows before everyone else (and how you can too)After the meteoric surge in pricing the short-term rental (STR) market experienced in the early 2020s, it became apparent that the Airbnb model is here to stay. Many investors seeking to diversify their portfolios concluded that, no matter how high the upfront cost, this is a buyer’s market.That said, STRs have a way of being especially profitable to the people who buy in early. Apart from benefiting from less competition, local legislation also takes a while to catch up, leaving room for investors to make back their money before the grip of zoning laws and bans takes hold.So how do smart investors find the perfect market for STRs early? PropertyReach offers a closer look at their strategies and how you can benefit from them.Tracking the Volatility of Modern STR MarketsSTRs were once a foolproof way of investing money, thanks to the simple business model and higher profitability compared to traditional long-term rentals (LTRs).However, with the huge expansion witnessed right after the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, local governments started paying closer attention to how this type of business affects the economy, and added “bans” or regulations that heavily control STRs. This is especially true for markets that see a lot of tourism, like Orlando, Florida; New York City; and Santa Monica, California.That said, it’s wiser to look at the STR business as comprising several markets, not just one. While some of the aforementioned cities are closing in on investors, others are opening up.Places like Buffalo, New York; Sarasota, Florida; and New Orleans are all booming with opportunity thanks to more lax regulations and falling property prices.How Proactive Investors Locate Profitable Properties EarlyThe decision to invest in an STR property might seem easy to some, but a smart investor does their homework about where to invest, how much to pay for a property, as well as projected profitability from the STR model. Here are some metrics to consider:Stable Home Value vs. Surging RentSome markets have been witnessing slow growth property value growth due to decreased demand. However, this doesn’t mean that rent prices aren’t rising alongside the general cost of living.In the markets where home prices are stable, or even decreasing, you might find a property that would work perfectly for the STR model. Places like Portland, Maine; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Madison, Wisconsin, are all potential candidates for this investment.GentrificationWhile considered a “dirty” word by some activists and organizations, it’s true that having amenities and gathering places, like workspaces, coffee shops, and grocery stores, close to a residential area is a magnet for property investment.It’s beneficial for the residents but also an excellent marker for a refreshed new look for the area, and maybe even a desire to create new social and cultural hubs.Low Owner-Occupancy RatesIf an area is mostly occupied by tenants instead of homeowners, it’s more likely to be accepting of a new STR business thanks to the absence of dreaded NIMBY (not in my backyard) sentiments and strict homeowners’ associations.A quick lookup using a property search tool can let you know the status of each property in a specific area, so you can make sure you’re on the right track with the area you’re targeting.Do High-Density Vacation Rentals Inflate Local Housing Costs?The short answer is yes. Every 1% increase in the number of Airbnb listings in an area corresponds to a 0.026% increase in the house prices there, according to a 2020 study by Kyle Barron, Edward Kung, and Davide Proserpio, published in Marketing Science.The effect balloons in high-density areas where the STR model reigns supreme, too. Another study found that in Barcelona, high Airbnb activity neighborhoods faced a 1.9% increase in rent, reaching 7% in highly coveted areas.However, there seems to be a growing number of cities in the United States proactively putting out legislation to fight this phenomenon. STR “bans” are laws and local regulations that make it harder for someone to own and operate an STR property. These include, but aren’t limited to, the New York City law that prevents owners from adding internal locks on the doors inside their house, and the laws that force the owner to register the STR property as their primary residence, like in many California cities.How to Future-Proof Your Rental Against Sudden Local BansThese are a few strategies to consider when you’re preparing to invest in an STR property:Spot the Red Flags: No one can predict the future, but whenever a market turns on the STR model, there usually are signs that new legislation is about to be drafted. Look for local representatives adding anti-STR legislation on their election agenda, NIMBY homeowners, and general political leanings in the area.Cost-Benefit Analysis of a Sudden Lockdown: How much will you lose if the city you’re investing in suddenly cuts off STRs? Is it possible to flip the home and make back your money? These are questions you should be asking, and depending on the answer, you can decide if this property is right for you.LTR Pivot: Having a plan B for the property as a long-term rental could be helpful in uncertain times. Even though it might not be as profitable, it could still bring in cash with fewer risks.Find Your Next STR Property NowUnderstanding the right strategies for STR investment is an excellent way to diversify your portfolio and unlock a new income stream. All you have to do is keep an eye out for properties with a somewhat stable market value, but with high potential as a STR. You should also do your research about the property, the area, as well as local legislation that could present challenges in the future.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Clock Inc. to hold special art auction fundraiser at Figge Thursday The LGBTQ+ community center Clock Inc. will hold an extra special art auction fundraiser Thursday, June 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport.
	Davenport Noon Optimist Club awards scholarships to Davenport high school students Students from all four of Davenport's high schools were recently awarded scholarships by the Davenport Noon Optimist Club. The Davenport Noon Optimist Club’s Promise Awards recognize students who exemplify the values of the Optimist Creed. Each year, three students from each of Davenport’s four high schools are chosen to receive a $1,500 scholarship based on [...]
	Magnificent Messi makes history, breaks all-time World Cup scoring record Messi scored a record-setting 17th World Cup goal in Argentina's game against Austria. And, then, he netted another goal, making him the all-time leader in World Cup tournaments (men and women).
	How long does it take to get a personal loan? How long does it take to get a personal loan?Sometimes, life throws curveballs at you that just can’t wait, such as an urgent car repair, a vet bill or a time-sensitive expense you didn’t see coming.If you're thinking about applying for a personal loan to help cover the cost, you’re probably wondering how quickly the money can actually be accessible. OneMain Financial broke down how long the personal loan approval and funding process usually takes and what you can do to help things move forward more smoothly.Personal loan approval and funding timesMost people may be able to get a personal loan quickly, but the exact timing depends on the chosen lender and their approval and funding process. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:Personal loan companyDepending on the lender, you may be able to apply for a personal loan online or at a branch. Typically, you’ll need to provide documentation like proof of identity and income — the exact requirements may vary by lender, and it may take a few days to verify your information.Although funding times vary, most personal loan lenders typically transfer funds to the borrower’s bank account within three business days after approval, and sometimes even the same day.Traditional bankA traditional lender, like a bank, could take one to three business days to approve a personal loan and three or more business days to fund it. Banks may also have stricter credit requirements than some other lenders, which might make it harder to get approved if you have less-than-perfect credit.If you already have an account with the bank and are in good standing, you may be more likely to be approved.Credit unionPersonal loan approval at a credit union may take one to three business days, and funding may take three or more business days. If you’re not already a credit union member, you’ll need to join first, and some credit unions don’t let new members take out loans immediately. However, compared to banks, credit unions are usually more flexible with credit requirements and may offer more competitive interest rates.Personal loan approval factorsAlthough the type of lender you apply with could affect how quickly your application can be evaluated, other factors impact the approval process, including the following:Credit historyMost lenders review credit history to assess creditworthiness when evaluating a loan application. For someone with less-than-perfect credit, some lenders might use a more rigorous review process to evaluate the application, which can lead to longer wait times. They may also request additional information.Type of loanThe type of personal loan you apply for may affect how quickly your application can be evaluated. For instance, secured loans require backing the loan with collateral, which is something of value, like a car. When applying for a secured loan, applicants typically have to provide information and documentation to verify the value, ownership, condition and insurance coverage of the collateral. Because of the extra paperwork, it may take some additional steps to get a secured loan.A secured loan may boost borrowing power with a lower interest rate, higher loan amount or longer repayment period (also called the “term of the loan”). If an applicant’s credit score is less than favorable, a secured loan may also be easier to qualify for than an unsecured loan. Just keep in mind that if you miss payments, the lender has the right to take the collateral to recover their losses.Unsecured loans, on the other hand, don’t require collateral and are based primarily on creditworthiness and financial profile. Because there’s no verification process for collateral, an unsecured loan application may take a little less time for lenders to assess and approve than a secured loan.Application accuracyMistakes happen, like filling in the wrong address or misspelling your name, so this could be why your personal loan application is either declined or takes longer to review. The lender may contact you to verify or clarify information on your application, which may add time to the approval process.Income verificationLenders verify income information to ensure you can repay the loan. Some lenders may allow you to set up an online connection to your bank account’s transaction history to help them confirm your paycheck deposits, while others may require you to upload paperwork like pay stubs, investment income and/or tax returns. If your employment status or other proof of income is easy to verify, this step may be quick. If not, getting approved and receiving the money you requested may take a little longer. Likewise, if you have to provide verification for your collateral, the process may take extra time.Make sure you provide all the important information, like your employer’s contact information, and upload any requested documents, like your check stubs or bank statements, so the lender can easily verify your ability to repay the personal loan.Tips to help streamline loan processingWhile some parts of the loan process are out of your control, there are steps you can take to make sure your application goes as smoothly as possible.1. Review your credit reportWhen applying for a personal loan, lenders look at credit history, income and debt to determine eligibility. Before applying, check your credit score. If it’s lower than you’d like, it could be helpful to pay down some of your debts to make sure your credit score is as strong as possible before you apply for a personal loan. Also, review your credit reports for any mistakes or inaccuracies and correct them before submitting a new loan application.2. PrequalifyChecking to see if you could prequalify for a personal loan lets you consider the options and budget before committing. Checking for offers is typically a quick and easy process, but timing does depend on the lender.Consider prequalifying with a few lenders, comparing their offers and then choosing the one that best suits your needs. Once you find the right fit, you can submit your loan application. When you apply, the lender then reviews your credit report using a hard credit check, which has a small, temporary impact on your credit score.3. Gather your documents ahead of timeCollecting paperwork or information while completing a loan application may make the process take longer. Instead, try to gather the documents you need before beginning the loan application. To get a loan, you’ll typically need to provide the following:Proof of identity (like your driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport or available third-party verification service)Proof of residence (like a driver’s license with current address, utility bill or signed lease)Proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns)For a secured loan, you’ll also need to provide verification of your collateral.Different lenders may have different requirements. Double-check before beginning your application to make sure you have what you need.4. Review your application carefullyErrors on a loan application, like typos or incorrect information, could delay approval or cause an application to be declined. To avoid this, check that everything is correct before submitting an application so the lender doesn’t have to ask you to correct any mistakes.Lay the groundwork for your loan applicationGetting a personal loan doesn’t always mean a long wait to get money, but the timeline can vary based on the lender, the type of loan and how prepared you are when you apply.Understanding what affects approval and funding times and taking simple steps like reviewing your credit report, prequalifying and double-checking your application could help avoid delays and get the funds you need faster.Whether handling an unexpected expense or planning something important, a little preparation could go a long way in making the loan process smoother and less stressful.This story was produced by OneMain Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why this Iowan has a state job but not the one that he planned Larry Johson failed to earn the required support in the Iowa Senate -- because of Democrats in that legislative body -- to serve as the director of the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services but will instead hold a different prominent role in the department.
	How Americans heated and powered their homes across 250 years How Americans heated and powered their homes across 250 yearsThe average American adjusts a thermostat or flips a light switch dozens of times a day without a second thought. Two hundred and fifty years ago, staying warm meant chopping, hauling, and feeding firewood into an open hearth all day. Even then, a glass of water across the room might freeze solid overnight.As the nation marks its 250th birthday, the story of how Americans heated and lit their homes tracks with nearly every major chapter of the country’s growth. As Shipley Energy outlines below, the fuels have changed, but the impulse behind them has not.How Did Colonial Americans Heat Their Homes?Colonial homes were built around massive central chimneys. A roaring hearth could keep the front half of your body warm while the back half stayed cold, as roughly 90% of the heat went straight up the flue.A typical household burned through 30 to 40 cords of firewood per year for heating and cooking, with each cord a stack of split logs four feet wide, four feet high, and eight feet long. Families confined themselves to one or two rooms for the winter, and deforestation around settlements became a serious concern by the mid-1700s.The Franklin Stove: America’s First Energy UpgradeIn 1742, Benjamin Franklin designed what he called the Pennsylvania Fireplace, a freestanding cast-iron box with internal baffles that radiated heat in every direction while burning far less wood.Franklin refused to patent it. “As we enjoy great advantages from the inventions of others, we should be glad of an opportunity to serve others by any invention of ours, and this we should do freely and generously,” he wrote. The stoves sold for 5 Pennsylvania pounds in Philadelphia. An ironmonger in London later copied the design, patented it, and made what Franklin drily noted was “a little fortune.”What Lit Colonial Homes Before Electricity?For most of the 18th and early 19th centuries, the answer was animal fat and whale oil. Ordinary households made tallow candles by repeatedly dipping cotton wicks into melted fat, a tedious autumn ritual. Wealthier families could afford spermaceti candles made from sperm whale oil, which burned brighter and cleaner, but they were expensive enough that most Americans never used them.The whaling industry functioned as America’s first energy supply chain, with fleets of ships crisscrossing the Atlantic to bring lamp fuel home. Shipley Energy Kerosene Killed the Whale Oil LampThat supply chain collapsed fast. On Aug. 27, 1859, Edwin Drake struck oil at 69 1/2 feet in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Kerosene refined from crude oil burned brighter, cleaner, and far cheaper than whale oil. Titusville’s population surged from 250 to roughly 10,000 by 1865. Drake, like Franklin before him, never patented his method.King Coal and the Cast-Iron RadiatorBy the 1820s, anthracite coal from northeastern Pennsylvania was displacing wood. It burned hotter and longer, and cast-iron stoves adapted to use it.The real breakthrough was central heating. Coal-fired boilers in basements pushed hot water or steam through cast-iron radiators, widely adopted by the 1880s, delivering heat to every room for the first time. The trade-offs: Coal dust coated everything, homes needed dedicated storage rooms, and someone had to shovel fuel and haul ashes several times a day.Gas Light, at Your Own RiskCoal gas, produced by heating coal and piping the result to nearby buildings, brought indoor gas lighting to wealthy urban homes by the 1850s. It was also dangerous. Gas fixtures leaked carbon monoxide, and with no regulations governing the companies that maintained the infrastructure, escaping gas caused suffocations, fires, and explosions.Edison Lights Up ManhattanOn Sept. 4, 1882, Thomas Edison’s Pearl Street Station in lower Manhattan began generating electricity, becoming the world’s first commercial central power plant. It launched with six dynamos serving 82 customers and 400 lamps; by 1884, the station powered 10,164 lamps for 508 customers.Electrification moved slowly. Early wiring was expensive and limited to wealthy city neighborhoods. Many homes hedged with combination gas-and-electric fixtures. As late as 1925, only half of American homes had electric power.When Did Rural America Get Electricity?In 1934, only about 11% of American farms had electricity. Private utilities saw little profit in stringing miles of wire to scattered farmsteads. President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act on May 20, 1936, providing federal loans to build power lines into farming communities. By 1950, close to 80% of farms had electric service. By 1960, electrification was essentially universal. Shipley Energy Heating Oil Replaces the Coal ShovelThe household oil burner came into prominence in the 1920s, and by the 1930s heating oil was appearing in new construction and coal-boiler retrofits alike. After World War II, it became the dominant residential fuel in the Northeast, where existing boiler infrastructure and oil distribution networks made the switch from coal a natural fit. Some cities mandated the conversion in the mid-1940s.Oil delivery trucks became a fixture of winter life across the Mid-Atlantic and New England: constant supply, smaller tanks, and no more shoveling.Natural Gas and the Suburban BoomIn 1940, three out of every four American homes still relied on coal or wood for heat, according to U.S. Census data. That changed fast. The interstate natural gas pipeline network expanded massively in the 1940s and 1950s. About half of the existing mainline transmission network was installed during this period, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.The postwar suburban boom accelerated the shift. Millions of new homes built in the late 1940s and 1950s had gas lines running to the curb. The thermostat, a small device with large consequences, meant homeowners could set a temperature and walk away. By the 1960s, natural gas was America’s preferred home heating fuel.Propane carved out its own role, reaching rural homes that sat beyond the pipeline network. First commercialized as liquefied petroleum gas in 1912, propane became a primary heating fuel for millions of households in areas where natural gas infrastructure didn’t extend.Air Conditioning Redraws the MapFor most of American history, cooling a home meant opening a window and hoping for a breeze. Wealthy families in the 19th century bought blocks of ice harvested from northern lakes and rivers, stored through the summer in insulated icehouses. Everyone else simply endured the heat.That changed in 1902, when a young Cornell engineering graduate named Willis Carrier designed a system to control both temperature and humidity at a Brooklyn printing plant. The technology worked, but residential air conditioning remained a luxury for decades. The first window units appeared in the early 1930s and cost the equivalent of a new car. By 1947, only about 43,000 units had been sold nationwide.Prices fell steadily after the war, and by the late 1960s most new homes had some form of air conditioning. The effect on where Americans chose to live was profound. Sun Belt states that had been too hot for large-scale settlement saw population surges, with Texas growing 170% between 1950 and 2000. Air conditioning did not just make homes more comfortable. It reshaped the country’s demographic map.The Story ContinuesThe decades after the suburban boom brought their own turning points. The 1973 OPEC oil embargo quadrupled oil prices almost overnight, and in 1977, President Jimmy Carter went on television in a cardigan to ask Americans to set their thermostats to 65 degrees during the day and 55 at night. The federal government created the Department of Energy in 1977 and began setting the first appliance efficiency standards, pushing manufacturers to build furnaces, water heaters, and air conditioners that wasted less fuel.Heat pumps surged in popularity during the energy crisis, faded when fuel prices dropped, and have roared back, now installed in roughly 40% of new American homes. Programmable thermostats arrived in the 1980s. Smart thermostats followed in 2011, cutting heating and cooling costs by 10%-26% by learning household schedules. Solar panels, once a novelty on a handful of experimental rooftops, now generate electricity for millions of homes nationwide.As the country celebrates its semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026, the full arc of that 250-year journey is worth appreciating. The colonists who chopped 40 cords of wood each winter and read by the light of a tallow candle could not have pictured a thermostat, a furnace, or a light switch. But they would have understood the motivation behind all of it. Every generation inherited the same basic problem and found new ways to solve it: Keep the house warm, keep the lights on, and make it a little easier than the generation before.This story was produced by Shipley Energy and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	4 ways to save on July 4th travel this year, according to KAYAK data 4 ways to save on July 4th travel this year, according to KAYAK dataAs Americans gear up for summer travel, there’s some good news: airfare prices are finally easing. According to KAYAK’s airfare trends dashboard, both domestic and international fares are trending down for the first time in weeks — a promising sign for travelers planning summer and early fall getaways.With just two weeks until one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, KAYAK uncovered a few standout Fourth of July travel trends and savings opportunities:1. Avoid the July 2 rushTiming matters more than many travelers realize.July 2 is shaping up to be the busiest day for domestic July 4th travel. It's also one of the most expensive, with average airfares running about 25% higher than flights on July 4 itself.Travelers who can shift their departure to July 3 or July 4 may find better prices and more availability. Average airfare on July 4 is currently $286, compared with $380 on July 1 and July 2.For holiday travelers, a one- or two-day shift can make a meaningful difference in cost.2. Don't Overlook These Trending Destinations with Great ValueSome of the destinations seeing the biggest increases in traveler search interest this July 4th also happen to be among the more affordable options.Fort Lauderdale: $281 average airfare (+32% increase in traveler interest year over year)West Palm Beach: $305 average airfare (+25%)Las Vegas: $320 average airfare (+22%)These destinations are attracting significantly more traveler interest than they did last year while maintaining relatively accessible airfares.For travelers looking to maximize value this holiday weekend, they offer proof that affordability and growing interest don't always have to be mutually exclusive.3. Compare Flying and Driving Before You BookMany travelers may assume renting a car and driving is the more budget-friendly option. But that's not always the case.According to AAA, the national average for gas prices is up 33% compared to last year, so travelers may be surprised by how competitive flying can be on some routes once fuel costs, mileage, and rental car prices are factored in.Take a trip from New York to Washington, D.C., for example. This trip calculator found that for two travelers planning to rent a car, flying would cost approximately $173 less than driving.For travelers weighing their options this holiday weekend, comparing the full cost of both transportation methods can reveal savings opportunities that aren't immediately obvious.4. Consider Hawai‘i, Where Prices Are FallingWhile many destinations are seeing higher prices this holiday weekend (cough Nashville), Hawai‘i shows the opposite.KAYAK data shows airfare to four Hawaiian islands is down compared to last July 4th:Lihue, Kaua‘i: $652 average airfare (-13%)Honolulu, Oahu: $671 average airfare (-9%)Kahului, Maui: $683 average airfare (-8%)Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawai’i: $687 average airfare (-7%)Those declines represent savings of up to $99 per ticket, making Hawai‘i one of the destinations where travelers can pay less than they did a year ago.For travelers who have been eyeing a Hawaiian getaway, this year may offer a better opportunity than expected. With airlines adding routes and increasing access to the islands, travelers are benefiting from more competition and lower fares than they saw last July 4th.The Bottom LineSome of the best July 4th travel values are hiding in plain sight. Travelers who look beyond the busiest travel days, compare destinations more carefully, and evaluate the full cost of a trip can find more savings than they might expect.This story was produced by KAYAK and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How dynamic pricing and guaranteed availability impact holiday jet travel How dynamic pricing and guaranteed availability impact holiday jet travelTravelers and corporate flight departments face a critical choice: dynamic pricing for opportunistic cost savings, or guaranteed availability for operational certainty. Each model carries distinct financial and schedule implications.These systems help match travelers with the right aircraft at the right time, offering more flexibility and predictability than traditional booking models. Jettly broke down how these options work, the advantages they bring, and how to maximize value from each option. Jettly How Does Dynamic Pricing Work in Private Aviation?Nowadays, dynamic pricing is the norm, and not just in commercial and private aviation. Dynamic pricing appears in hospitality, ride-sharing, utilities, energy, and other sectors. This is a pricing strategy where the final cost is influenced by a series of factors.In private aviation, some of the factors that weigh the heaviest are aircraft size and class, demand, availability, route, environmental factors, and/or fuel surcharges. Flights from New York to Miami on Thursday afternoons in October carry lower prices than that same route on the day after Thanksgiving.Charter companies use dynamic pricing for yield optimization. Their main goal is to make sure an aircraft never flies empty or underpriced, while also attracting a more varied customer base. On the other hand, holiday travelers who enjoy the luxury of private flying also stand to gain from this arrangement.The model aligns operator and customer incentives.What Is Guaranteed Availability?Guaranteed availability is the alternative model. This is a contractual promise that, in exchange for an upfront premium, a private operator will have an aircraft available within a specific window (usually 10 to 72 hoursâ€™ notice), no matter how busy the market is.The price is almost always tied to a fixed hourly rate determined when the contract is signed. Whether flights occur in October at 5 a.m. or Christmas Eve at 2 p.m., an aircraft remains available. The fixed hourly rate applies regardless of timing. The offer is usually included in financial instruments like fractional ownership, leases, and traditional membership jet cards.Contracts require careful review of fine print. Most contracts designate 15 to 45 days a year (major holidays, Super Bowl weekend, Thanksgiving) as peak days. On these specific dates, the rules of the guarantee change slightly to give the operator breathing room.Clients might face longer notice requirements, from the usual 24-hour to 72 or 96 hours. Also, the operator may reserve the right to adjust requested departure times by ±3 hours to help stagger the fleet's schedule.Dynamic Pricing vs. Guaranteed Availability: Cost vs. Certainty Trade-offsWhen deciding between options, the following comparison illustrates key differences between models: Jettly Who Benefits Most: Flexible vs. Fixed-Schedule TravelersHoliday demand drives pricing volatility. In recent years, inflation, global geopolitical conflicts, and disruptions in the supply chain have made travel of any kind a lot more expensive.In fact, according to the Deloitte 2025 Holiday Travel Survey, only 1 in 4 surveyed travelers would book a first-class flight. In the same survey, 57% of travelers said they prefer driving instead of flying because of the costs.Still, demand for private aviation remains at an all-time high, and holiday travelers are an important segment of the clientele. That is due, in part, to dynamic pricing.When schedules are flexible (such as during holidays), dynamic pricing is a gold mine. Flexible travelers can scan marketplace platforms and find discounted flights from operators eager to avoid flying an empty aircraft.Travelers who frequently fly contrarian routes (e.g., flying out of Florida at the beginning of winter, or flying midweek) also benefit because the algorithm lowers prices to stimulate demand on empty legs.On the other hand, families who only travel during rigid calendar windows (e.g., Christmas, spring break, or to Aspen, Colorado, in January) heavily benefit from a guarantee.This story was produced by Jettly and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Premium packaging becomes a growth strategy for retailers Premium packaging becomes a growth strategy for retailersRetailers and product brands without premium packaging face commoditization and margin compression in highly competitive markets. In categories from specialty coffee to cosmetics to consumer tech, packaging is no longer decorative—it's a direct driver of perceived value and purchasing behavior.The shift is structural. Consumers form quality judgments in under 50 milliseconds, before they even open the product. A generic, commodity package signals low value. A thoughtfully designed one with tactile finishes, high-end materials, and clean typography signals quality, craftsmanship, and a justified price.This matters because premium packaging allows brands to escape price competition entirely. Instead of competing on cost, they compete on experience. A specialty coffee roaster can charge more for a pound of beans, not because the coffee is necessarily better, but because the packaging tells a story of quality and care. The same principle applies to cosmetics, tech accessories, and luxury goods across every category, TEAM Concept, a Chicago-based commercial printing company, reports.Premium Packaging Captures Sales in Under 50 MillisecondsIt takes less than 50 milliseconds for a customer to decide if they’re going to interact with a product or not. Whether on a shelf, in a brick-and-mortar store, or online, in an e-commerce shop, that first impression can make the difference between “buy” and “pass.”The judgment rests on perceived quality. Even before they open the packaging and see what’s inside, buyers will already have formed an expectation. A clean, professional design that incorporates special elements like texture or embossed writing signals attention to detail and creative effort.Premium packaging becomes inseparable from the product itself.Apple's packaging has become a benchmark in retail design. When someone opens an iPhone box, everything is well-placed, sophisticated, and clean. The entire experience is intentional and cohesive.The smooth lines and clean design continue with the product. This way, the packaging sets the expectation and the device delivers. Even if the consumer doesn’t know what premium packaging is, they feel the difference, and this is all that matters for a spectacular first impression.The Details that Signal QualityPremium packaging uses high-quality materials, sophisticated printing methods, and intentional design to create an elevated customer experience. The distinction isn't subtle—it's visible and tactile from the moment a buyer encounters the product.Specialty brands differentiate through specific design choices: flat-bottom bags that stand upright (not slouching pillows), discrete pocket zippers that reseal, matte finishes that feel like soft-touch fabric, and transparent labeling that highlights technical specifications. Abstract color blocks and editorial typography communicate tasting notes or product benefits. Each element reinforces the perception of quality and care.Customization is central to both product differentiation and customer experience. Brands use distinctive designs, premium materials, and specialized printing techniques to ensure products stand out on shelves while creating stronger impressions on consumers.The result is a coherent experience: The packaging sets expectations, and the product delivers on them. When done effectively, the unboxing itself becomes part of the value proposition.How Does Packaging Drive Growth?Given that premium packaging raises the shelf price of the product, how does it make sense for a business’s growth strategy?Looking only at material costs, it may seem counterintuitive. But when considering consumer behavior and the fact that price and quality are among the most influential factors in purchasing decisions, premium packaging can be a high-return investment.Better VisibilityIn a crowded store or an endless online scroll, brands have roughly three to seven seconds to capture a shopper's attention before they look away. If their packaging looks generic, they’re forced to compete purely on price, meaning many companies have to lower prices to get noticed.Premium packaging flips this dynamic. By using striking visual architecture and tactile finishes, the product immediately stands out. It breaks through the visual noise, transforming a passive browser into an active buyer.Rewire the Consumer's Perception of ValueFast visual assessments evolved within human cognition. This instinct helped humans survive ancestral environments and still drives split-second purchasing decisions.So, while premium packaging increases production costs, it also enables brands to shift from price competition to value competition, with consumers accepting higher retail prices.Free Word-of-Mouth MarketingMany consumers find it satisfying to unpack a beautifully wrapped gift or product. This feeling is behind one of the biggest trends in the creator economy: unboxing videos.The unboxing phenomenon is still popular, especially on short-form content platforms like TikTok or Instagram. And it’s a massive driver of organic, free marketing.Nowadays, the trend has shifted a bit toward sustainable and reusable packaging that still looks and feels great. For instance, many of the boxes and containers used by the luxury packaging market are reusable as home storage solutions. This way, buyers get to brag about their purchases while feeling proud that they didn’t contribute to the packaging material waste problem.A Chance for Small RetailersIndependent retailers face a structural disadvantage against massive corporate brands when competing purely on price. Premium packaging shifts this dynamic. By upgrading to premium, sustainable mono-materials and detailed, transparent labeling, they shift the product out of the grocery staple category and into the luxury experience category.Their target is now a demographic of consumers who actively want to spend money on high-quality goods, even if it's a few dollars more.Investing in Growth Strategy Through PackagingIn a highly competitive market, premium packaging helps retailers stand out and capture the attention of a more affluent audience. So, whether a brand is selling coffee, cosmetics, or tech devices, it does pay to take things a bit further with packaging.Although it raises the shelf price, premium packaging also increases customers' desire to buy. By turning an ordinary purchase into an experience, businesses get to sell fewer items at much higher margins, while nurturing a loyal and dedicated client base.This story was produced by TEAM Concept and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Laverne Cox wrote her memoir because 'one more human story out there can help' For more than a decade, actor Laverne Cox been one of the most visible trans women in America. But the Orange Is the New Black star says she spent most of childhood keeping herself hidden.
	Dixon, Illinois, officials give update on early morning home explosion Authorities held a press conference at noon on Monday after a home explosion injured one and prompted over a hundred evacuations.
	“Legislative Add-Ons Returning to Normal Levels” Sounds a Lot Like “Cuts” When Factoring in Inflation In response to a question last week from my associate Isabel Miller, Governor JB Pritzker said he didn’t think a group of progressive legislators could pass their progressive revenue bills through both chambers by the end of the spring session.
	Retail has a safety crisis, and new research shows how leaders are responding Retail has a safety crisis, and new research shows how leaders are respondingWalk into almost any retail store today and something has quietly shifted. Merchandise sits behind locked cases, staffing feels thinner and the atmosphere carries a tension that wasn't there a few years ago. It turns out shoppers aren't imagining it.Shoplifting at U.S. retail stores rose 18% in 2024, according to the National Retail Federation, and threats of violence during these incidents climbed 17% in the same period. These are not just numbers to the employees showing up to work, not knowing what the shift will bring.A new survey from Axon, a leader in safety and security technology, finds that retail leadership is paying attention to these problems. Nine in ten retail executives say workplace safety is a top priority for their organization. Eighty percent say it caused operational disruption in the past year.That toll has a price. The costs show up quickly and in multiple directions, with the top effects reported including higher insurance or legal expenses, increased employee turnover and higher hiring and recruitment costs. These pressures compound over time, with each challenge feeding into the next and making it harder for stores to get ahead of the problem.For the retail workers absorbing the daily tension of understaffed stores and difficult customer situations that can escalate quickly, the stakes are personal. These are the employees who are on the floor each day, responding to difficult moments in real time while absorbing the ongoing stress of simply not knowing what the next interaction might bring. The workforce consequences, including turnover, recruitment strain and burnout, are a direct reflection of what the job has become.Retailers are responding. When asked whether they support greater investment in safety and efficiency measures, more than 4 in 5 retail leaders strongly favor or favor increased spending. Technology is where much of that appetite is focused, with majority support for solutions ranging from body-worn cameras, which can operate as a personal safety device, and de-escalation training to AI-powered tools and real-time monitoring operations centers.Retailers are also tracking whether the investments pay off. Store performance and customer experience rank among the top ways retail organizations measure whether safety spending is working. Behind those metrics are real people, workers who want to feel supported on the job and customers who want to shop without worry.The tension shoppers may sense when they walk through the door is the same tension retail workers feel every shift. But the gap between that reality and the promise of a safer experience is closing. Technology has given retailers more ways to protect the people in their stores — training platforms that prepare workers for real situations before they happen, AI tools that help teams respond faster, and solutions that make it easier to de-escalate a situation before it gets worse.MethodologyAxon commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of executive leaders in healthcare and retail throughout the United States. The sample included 129 healthcare leaders and 125 retail leaders. The margin of error is plus or minus 6 percentage points at a 95% confidence level for the total sample and for the healthcare and retail subgroups. Fieldwork was conducted between March 27 and March 30, 2026. Atomik Research, part of 4media group, is a creative market research agency.This story was produced by Axon and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	8 best states to invest in real estate in 2026 8 best states to invest in real estate in 2026For people with nine-to-five jobs, real estate can create more wealth than just about any other asset class, and many get into it to secure their financial futures or achieve financial freedom. But with thousands of markets across the country, putting your money in the wrong place could slow you down. No matter where you live, knowing which states are best for investing in real estate can help you reach your financial goals.A quick Google search turns up dozens of possible investment opportunities, but a seemingly good deal on paper does not always equate to real-world performance. Before comparing individual rental properties, it pays to understand the bigger picture.In this guide, TurboTenant investigates eight states to consider investing in rental properties in 2026. The list was compiled based on factors such as job growth, affordability, landlord friendliness, and more. Depending on your goals, these carefully vetted markets offer strong potential for cash flow, appreciation, or, in a perfect world, both.What makes a state worth investing in?Every investor has their own unique strategy, but strong rental markets tend to share a few traits. Here are the five factors used to build this list:Job growth and population trends: You don’t want to buy a rental property in an area where people are actively moving away. States with steady in-migration and job growth tend to have stronger rental demand, lower vacancy risk, and a larger pool of qualified tenants.Landlord-friendly laws: Some states are more landlord-friendly than others, while some actively favor tenants. Laws related to eviction, rent control, tenant screening, and security deposits can all make or break your returns.Affordability and entry price: Knowing the hottest rental markets doesn’t matter if you can’t afford to buy into one. Lower purchase prices make it easier to enter the market, improve cash flow, and support stronger metrics such as the price-to-rent ratio and cap rate.Rental yield and long-term appreciation: Think about your investment goals before you buy. Some markets offer stronger monthly cash flow, while others give investors better odds of long-term appreciation. The best opportunities tend to balance both.Operating costs and risk exposure: Purchase price is only part of the equation. Property taxes, insurance premiums, and natural disaster exposure can all hit your net returns hard. States with low property taxes and stable insurance markets give investors more predictable costs and stronger month-to-month returns.With those factors in mind, take a look at eight states where the fundamentals point in the right direction for 2026.1. TexasTexas has no state income tax, a large and diversified economy, and major metros like Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston that continue pulling in workers and businesses at a pace few states can match. The result is consistent population growth and strong demand for both single-family and multifamily rentals across the state.Texas is also one of the most landlord-friendly states in the country, with no statewide rent control, shorter eviction timelines, and rental laws that give owners real flexibility to operate. The one notable cost to watch in the Lone Star State is property taxes, which are above the national average and can squeeze margins if not accounted for. Investors who need more room to breathe should compare the major metros against more affordable markets like San Antonio or El Paso.2. FloridaFlorida’s steady stream of retirees and remote workers relocating for the weather supports long-term demand in metros like Tampa and Jacksonville. At the same time, Orlando and Miami feed a short-term rental market that few other states can compete with. That flexibility lets investors choose their strategy or hedge between the two without crossing state lines.Like Texas, Florida has no state income tax and strong landlord protections, with state preemption blocking local rent control ordinances. The inescapable expense to keep in mind, however, is insurance. Homeowner and landlord premiums run significantly higher here than the national average. Factor these numbers in ahead of time, however, and Florida’s long-term appreciation case still stands.3. TennesseeTennessee’s rental demand lies in cities like Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Nashville, the latter of which has consistent job growth across healthcare, technology, and music. Populations are rising in all three metros, but homebuying costs are lower in Knoxville and Chattanooga, and you’ll face less competition from other investors.What makes Tennessee stand out is that the laws favor landlords, and the economics favor tenants (both of which work in landlords’ favor). No statewide rent control, a fast eviction process, no state income tax, and a cost of living below the national average all combine to keep your units full and your liability manageable.4. North CarolinaNorth Carolina hosts the famed “Research Triangle,” a region comprising three cities (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill) with a well-established tech sector and multiple major universities. Charlotte rounds out the state’s investment case as the financial capital of the Southeast, with a banking-driven job market that supports upscale rentals without the prohibitive entry costs of nearby coastal alternatives.The less obvious play is the Piedmont Triad region, where lower home prices and high occupancy rates create stronger cash flow potential with less investor competition. Statewide, North Carolina has no rent control, a landlord-friendly eviction process, and shorter lease termination timelines, a legal environment that works for landlords whether they’re buying their first property or their hundredth.5. GeorgiaAtlanta is one of the few major corporate hubs in the country where entry costs haven’t kept pace with demand. Home to Delta, Home Depot, and Coca-Cola, this Sun Belt city consistently attracts new residents and sustains steady rental demand across a range of price points. Not to mention, price-to-rent ratios in the outer suburbs still hold up for individual investors.Georgia has no statewide rent control and doesn’t cap late fees or security deposits, both investor-friendly policies that protect your bottom line. And if Atlanta’s price point feels out of reach, consider markets like Savannah and Augusta, which offer significantly lower entry costs.6. ArizonaPhoenix has been one of the most-watched rental markets in the nation over the last decade, largely due to steady in-migration and a fast-growing tech sector. Beyond the metro, Tucson offers a quieter entry point, with lower housing costs and a stable college-town renter base, making it worth a close look for investors priced out of Phoenix.Arizona is an appreciation play (and a well-timed one right now). Home values surged after 2020, cooled, and have since been stabilizing, meaning buyers are negotiating from a stronger position than they’ve had in years. For investors with a long-term mindset, Arizona is one of the more compelling investment property markets in the country right now.7. OhioIf cash flow is your primary goal, Ohio deserves a serious look. Home prices are affordable, rental rates are competitive, and the state’s major cities (particularly Columbus) consistently post lower vacancy rates than comparable Midwest metros. That combination is rare at Ohio’s price point.Columbus has added another long-term growth driver in recent years: a fast-expanding data center corridor anchored by Amazon, Google, and Meta. Pair that with no statewide rent control and strong demand for multifamily real estate investing, and Ohio makes a compelling case for low-and-slow investors who want consistent returns over flashy appreciation.8. IndianaIndiana is perhaps the most beginner-friendly state on this list. The state capital, Indianapolis, offers high rents relative to median home prices, low unemployment, major corporate anchors like Eli Lilly, no statewide rent control, and some of the lowest property taxes in the region.But the real hidden value is waiting outside the capital. Markets like Fort Wayne and South Bend offer some of the lowest entry costs and least investor competition of any metro on this list, making Indiana a natural starting point for first-time landlords aiming to get their footing in passive real estate investing. Get the numbers right in the Hoosier State, and you’ll have a game plan you can take anywhere.Start investing with the right foundationKnowing the best states to invest in real estate is just a starting point. Before you commit to a market, get clear on your goals: steady cash flow, long-term appreciation, or both. Not every market delivers each, and buying into the wrong one can make for an expensive lesson.Once you’ve zeroed in, compare vacancy rates, run the numbers on insurance and property taxes, and stress-test your expected rents before you make an offer.Every state on this list made the cut for a reason, but none of them is the perfect answer for every investor. Ohio is all about cash flow. Arizona rewards patience. Indiana hands first-timers a playbook.Match the market to your goals, run the numbers honestly, and build a process that keeps the investment profitable. The homework is the easy part, but everything that comes after is what separates good landlords from great ones.This story was produced by TurboTenant and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Country star Ella Langley bringing sold-out tour to Quad Cities Country star Ella Langley is extending her sold-out tour to the Quad Cities.
	Clive Davis, music executive and champion of legendary pop artists, has died at 94 The record executive was instrumental in shepherding the successful careers of a number of monumental music stars, including Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen, Janis Joplin, Billy Joel and Whitney Houston.
	Investigation underway after rural Rock Falls hit-and-run leaves bicyclist seriously injured A 911 call reported the crash around 10:21 p.m. on Sunday, June 21. Authorities said it happened on U.S. Route 30 in front of Crystal Lake.
	Should you microwave fresh dog food? Should you microwave fresh dog food?While it may be tempting to pop your pup’s food in the microwave to take the chill off, especially if it’s frozen, Ollie’s Food Safety and Quality Assurance team doesn’t recommend it. That’s because microwaving can degrade the nutrients in fresh food and can cause it to spoil more quickly, among other things. Read on for safe ways to warm up and thaw your pup’s food.Is it safe to microwave fresh dog food?The short answer is no. Fresh-frozen recipes are made with real, human-grade ingredients and gently cooked at low temperatures—an approach designed to lock in as much nutrition and flavor as possible. A blast of intense, uneven heat from the microwave strips away the goodness and introduces a few risks that aren’t worth taking.Here’s what microwaving fresh dog food can do:Degrade nutrients: The high heat of a microwave can break down heat-sensitive vitamins and nutrients that make a fresh meal worthwhile.Speed up spoilage: From a food-safety standpoint, warming food up actually accelerates bacterial growth if it isn’t eaten right away. A bowl of warm food is a friendlier place for bacteria to start growing than one served freshly thawed.Cause sparking: The vitamins and minerals in the food can react in the microwave and cause sparking.How to safely thaw frozen dog foodHere’s how to safely bring a meal up to temperature before serving it to your pup.Thaw in the fridge overnight. Move packs from the freezer to your refrigerator about 24 hours ahead. Once thawed, they’ll stay good to serve for up to 4 days.In a pinch, submerge the pack in cold water. For a faster thaw, submerge the unopened pack in a bowl of cold water. Keep it sealed the whole time—an open pack lets water in and invites bacteria, which defeats the purpose.Build in a buffer: Keeping a day or two of thawed meals in the fridge means you’re never caught scrambling.How to warm fresh dog food without a microwaveOnce a meal is thawed, some dogs still prefer it with the chill off, especially in cooler months. If yours turns up its nose at a cold bowl, you have a couple of safe, simple options:Add warm water or broth. Stir in a spoonful of warm (never hot) water or a no-sodium, onion- and garlic-free bone broth. It lifts the aroma and warms the meal in one move.Let it rest on the counter. Pull the meal out of the fridge 10–15 minutes before serving so it comes up to room temperature on its own. Do not let it sit on the counter for more than 30 minutes.The bottom line: Skip the microwaveTo take the chill off or win over a picky eater, reach for a splash of warm water or broth, or let the meal rest on the counter for a few minutes instead. Your dog gets a bowl they love, and you keep every bit of the goodness you signed up for.FAQsIs cold food bad for dogs?Not at all. Most dogs are perfectly fine eating food straight from the fridge.What if my dog refuses cold food?Try letting the food sit out for 10 to 15 minutes or gently thaw it. You can also mix in a little warm broth or a small topper to entice them.This story was produced by Ollie and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	A complete guide to lab-grown gemstones A complete guide to lab-grown gemstonesLab-grown gemstones can be any stones created via advanced synthetic processes as opposed to being mined from the ground. They may include diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, or any gem that looks and feels just like its naturally sourced counterpart.Just like natural stones, lab-made gemstones have their pros and cons. Many buyers choose lab-made gems because they’re often more affordable and can be viewed by some as more eco-friendly. However, some feel that lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, despite being identical in physical makeup to mined stones, aren’t as “authentic” or “real.”So what’s the truth? BriteCo chatted with their expert gemologist Kaitlyn Rigdon to find out:How lab-grown stones are madeWhich lab-created gemstones are bestThe pros and cons of lab-grown gemstone jewelryWhat consumers should keep in mind when shopping for a lab-grown gemstoneHow Are Lab-Grown Gemstones Made?There are multiple methods of producing lab-grown gems, with some of the most popular including the flux growth process, flame fusion process, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and the high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) method. Essentially, these methods mimic the natural processes that produce precious stones beneath the earth, but rather in a controlled environment and on a much quicker timeline.“Lab-grown diamond and gem production has become so good that any of these processes are going to produce really great quality stones,” Rigdon said. “They’re producing them to a certain endgame so they can cut them precisely without worrying about losing any rough materials, so it doesn’t really matter how they’re produced. You can get the same result in a laboratory.” Here’s a closer look at the four processes often used to create lab-grown gemstones and diamonds.1. The Flux Growth ProcessFlux growth requires melting a solid material (called flux) within a chemical solution that, while cooling, grows synthetic crystals. This method is more time-intensive and more expensive than others, but is known to produce very high-quality synthetic stones, particularly emeralds. The flux growth process is also used to produce rubies, sapphires, alexandrite, and spinel.2. The Flame Fusion ProcessOne of the earliest methods of producing lab-grown gems is the flame fusion process. It requires melting powdered substances (such as aluminum oxide) at an extremely high heat of more than 3,600 degrees Fahrenheit, after which the cooling substances crystallize, forming gemstones such as rubies and sapphires. The flame fusion process is very cost-effective and relatively quick, though the gemstones may be more likely to feature undesirable inclusions.3. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)Widely used to create lab-grown diamonds, CVD uses a very tiny diamond “seed” combined with extreme heat and a carbon-containing gas to build a larger diamond stone. CVD diamonds typically feature few flaws and are known for their high quality.4. High-Pressure/High-Temperature (HPHT)Another popular option for producing lab-grown diamonds is the HPHT method. As the name suggests, it combines high-pressure points and high temperatures in a controlled environment to turn carbon into a diamond, just much more quickly than its natural counterparts typically form.The best lab-grown gemstones include diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies.In particular, a lab-created diamond will exhibit no physical difference when compared to its natural counterpart. “Testing with my eye, or even a microscope, it’s hard to tell the difference,” Rigdon said.A lab-grown emerald can actually have less inclusions than natural emeralds. As for appearance, Rigdon says, “the colors between an emerald that’s lab-grown or an emerald that’s natural are going to be different, but most people aren’t really going to know. They’re just going to say, ‘That’s a pretty great stone.’”Meanwhile, cost is also something to consider. For example, a lab-grown ruby is nearly always going to be more affordable than a natural ruby, making lab-created stones more accessible to those shopping on a budget.You can buy other lab-created gemstones beyond these four examples, but they may come with some downsides that may make them undesirable to some shoppers. For example, lab-created opals do not display the more random and unique color patterns that you’ll find in nature.The Pros of Buying a Lab-Grown GemstoneThe pros of buying a lab-grown gem include greater affordability and possibly more eco-friendly characteristics, without sacrificing quality.1. SustainabilityMany tout lab-grown gemstones as a more sustainable and ethical option, and it is true that lab-grown gemstones do not require mining or rely on human labor that often takes place in traditional mining.While this is a pro for lab-grown stones, though, be aware that not all lab-grown gemstones are 100% sustainable. Some of the methods used to create these gemstones require an extensive amount of energy. Any sustainability or eco-friendly claims for lab-grown gems and diamonds should not be taken at face value and must be examined in relation to the producer’s process or the seller’s claims.If sustainability and eco-friendliness is what matters most to you when buying a lab-grown stone, research the particular methods used to create the stone you’re considering buying, and see how it aligns with your personal values.2. AffordabilityLab-grown gems are significantly more affordable than their natural counterparts; for example, a lab-grown center stone for an engagement ring might cost just an eighth of what you’d pay for a natural gemstone of the same cut, carat, clarity, and cut (or shape), aka the Four C’s.This not only means that you’ll spend less overall on a piece of jewelry featuring lab-grown gemstones, but also that you’ll have greater options when shopping. Gemstones or larger pieces that may have been out of your budget previously could be within reach when you swap out natural gemstones for lab-grown variants.Part of the price advantage comes from a lab’s ability to produce what buyers want. “Once you pull a diamond from a mine, you can’t put it back to keep growing or hope the color or clarity gets better,” Rigdon said. “But with lab-grown gems, you can grow them longer or alter the conditions to get a better quality.”Just How Much Could You Save By Buying a Lab-Grown Stone?You could save potentially $3,000 or more by purchasing a lab-grown stone.After COVID-era inflation spikes, lab-grown diamond prices have steadily declined as supply has flooded the market. According to BriteCo’s data published in the 2025 Lab-Grown Vs. Natural Diamond report, the average 1-carat lab-grown diamond costs $1,000 or less compared to about $4,200 for a natural diamond, helping drive the average engagement ring price down from $6,000 in 2021 to $5,200 in 2024. BriteCo While knowing that an engagement ring with a lab-grown center stone might just cost an eighth of what you’d pay for a natural stone of the same size and quality is nice, actually translating those savings into a dollar amount highlights the magnitude of savings you can expect.The Cons of Buying Lab-Grown GemstonesThe downsides of buying a lab-grown gemstone include limited resale opportunities and perhaps a lack of personal connection.1. Limited Resale OpportunitiesLab-grown gemstones are relatively affordable to begin with, and since there’s a potentially infinite supply of lab-grown gemstones on the market, you may find that they have little value or resale opportunities if you decide to sell the jewelry at a later date.“You’re going to get pennies on it as opposed to selling a natural diamond where you’re going to get dollars,” Rigdon said. “It’s really not even comparable. There’s basically no value in reselling lab-grown diamonds.”In comparison, natural gemstones are rare, which ensures they retain their value over time. As such, if you’re looking at gemstones as a potential investment, you’d want to steer clear of lab-grown options.2. The Personal ConnectionSimilarly, when looking at the long-term life of your jewelry, some shoppers feel that lab-grown gemstones carry less tradition and sentimental value. For example, lab-grown gemstone engagement rings aren’t going to hold their value over time, so they may be less likely to become a treasured family heirloom generations after the ring’s purchase. But as Rigdon advises, “The sentimental part is what you attribute to it.”What to Look for When Buying Lab-Grown Gemstone Rings and Other JewelryIf you’ve decided that buying lab-grown gemstones, loose or as part of a piece of jewelry, is right for you, it’s best to shop with the following elements in mind: BriteCo In short, you’ll want to consider the same factors when shopping for a lab-grown gemstone that you might when shopping for a natural gemstone.Lab-Grown Gemstones FAQsAre Lab-Grown Gemstones Real?Yes, lab-grown gemstones exhibit the same chemical composition as natural gemstones.How Do You Know if You’re Looking at Natural or Lab-Grown Gem Rings?When shopping for jewelry, the average untrained eye (and even some professional eyes!) will not be able to tell the difference between a “natural” or lab-grown gemstone, so be sure to talk with your trusted jewelers to learn more about their offerings and the optical properties you can look for, in order to distinguish a lab-grown gemstone from a mined gemstone.Are Lab-Grown and Simulant Gemstones the Same?While the two terms may be used interchangeably, lab-grown gemstones exhibit the same chemistry and physical makeup as a mined gemstone, whereas simulant gemstones are technically considered imitations, encompassing stones made of all sorts of materials meant to mimic the real deal, such as cubic zirconia and diamonds.Does a Lab-Grown Diamond Retain Its Value?Unfortunately, lab-grown diamonds begin to decrease in value once sold, as lab-grown diamonds are relatively easy and affordable to create, making an infinite number possible and thereby reducing each piece’s overall value.What Was the First Lab-Grown Gemstone in History?The very first lab-grown gemstone in the world was a lab-created ruby developed by Auguste Verneuil in the late 1800s.This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to choose a GEO agency: Red flags, questions and considerations How to choose a GEO agency: Red flags, questions and considerationsAs pressure to show up in AI answers grows, so does the number of vendors selling promises they cannot clearly explain. That makes choosing the right partner harder than it should be.If you’re trying to figure out how to choose a GEO agency, look for a partner that can explain how its AI visibility strategy builds on strong SEO foundations, what work it will actually do, and how it will measure business impact over time.This guide from WebFX walks you through what to look for in an AI visibility agency, which red flags to avoid, and what questions to ask before you sign anything.Why choosing an AI visibility vendor got harder so fastAI search is changing how people discover brands, compare options, and get answers. At the same time, the service language around that shift is still settling.According to recent Digiday coverage, there is a growing disconnect in the market: Some agencies treat GEO as a completely new discipline, while others see it as an add-on to existing SEO work. That leaves buyers stuck sorting through competing claims, overlapping acronyms, and a lot of hype-heavy language.That confusion is exactly why vendor selection matters so much right now.You are not just choosing a new service category. You are choosing whether the partner in front of you understands how search behavior is changing without pretending the old rules have disappeared overnight.How to choose a GEO agency: 5 things to considerIf you want to know how to choose a GEO agency, five things in particular stand out as notable GEO agency considerations.1. Past GEO experienceOne of the first things to look at is whether the agency has real experience with GEO, AEO, or broader AI visibility work.That does not mean you need a vendor that treats GEO like a completely separate discipline from SEO. In fact, one of the strongest signs of credibility is when an agency explains that AI visibility builds on strong SEO foundations instead of replacing them.Look for an agency that can speak clearly about:Technical SEOContent qualitySite structureAuthority signalsAI-specific improvements like answer-ready formatting, citation readiness, and entity clarityYou want a partner that can adapt to new search behavior while still building on proven SEO foundations.2. Content strategy approachAnother major aspect of what to look for in a GEO agency is a solid content strategy approach. A lot of GEO tactics ultimately boil down to how you optimize your website content. So, to know how effective an agency’s GEO services will be, look at the kind of content they produce — both for their clients and on their own website. You want an agency that focuses on:Building structured contentExpanding prompt and query coverageMaking answers easier to extractReinforcing key topics and entities across the siteOn top of that, of course, the agency should follow all the other established practices for content creation that have long been a part of SEO, from keyword integration to schema markup.3. Case studies and testimonialsCase studies and testimonials can help you evaluate whether an agency’s pitch matches reality. Still, don’t stop at surface-level proof like flashy claims about “better AI visibility.” You want to see whether the agency can explain:What work it didWhat it prioritized firstHow it measured progressWhat kind of business impact followed over timeStrong proof is usually found in case studies and positive reviews that show a clear connection between strategy, execution and outcomes.4. GEO analytics and reportingFind an agency that’s transparent about how they handle GEO reporting.Analyzing the results of your GEO is crucial for understanding how it’s performing and improving performance over time. Yet only 47% of marketers say they understand how to measure the impact of AI on their campaigns. This highlights the need for an agency with a solid approach to GEO analytics and reporting.For each agency you talk to, it is important to understand how they handle GEO reporting. You want to find an agency with a clear plan for their analytics approach, and you want to ensure that they’ll be open with you about the performance of your campaigns.Ideally, your agency should send you regular reports every month, or at least every quarter.5. Pricing and service packagesYou need a GEO agency that fits within your budget. You don’t want to overpay for an agency that might underperform, and you don’t want to waste money on cheaper packages that won’t deliver. When looking at prices, consider the scope behind them.Ask what the GEO service package actually includes. When comparing GEO service costs, look for deliverables like:A GEO or AI visibility auditTechnical SEO fixes or implementation supportUpdates to high-intent pages, like service pages, pricing pages, product pages and comparison pagesAnswer-ready content formatting and content refreshesEntity clarity improvements across key pagesInternal linking and site structure updatesSchema recommendations or structured data supportPrompt, citation, or AI visibility monitoringReporting on early visibility signals and business-impact metricsOngoing strategy, testing and optimization after the initial setupMany agencies offer service packages with varying pricing, depending on the deliverables you’re getting. So, even if you can’t afford a given agency’s highest-tier plan, they may have a less extensive plan that’s within your budget based on your website’s core needs.What real AI visibility work includesWhen comparing GEO agencies, get clear on what you are actually buying. Credible GEO agencies usually explain AI visibility in two layers: the SEO foundation and the AI-specific layer built on top of it.The foundation still looks a lot like strong SEOA credible partner should talk about the basics that still shape discoverability, trust, and site understanding, such as:CrawlabilityTechnical healthSite structureContent qualityHigh-intent page strengthAuthority and brand trustThese elements still help search engines and AI systems understand your brand, your offerings, and the reliability of your content. One agency leader in Digiday’s report reinforces that fact: “If a GEO service does not openly tell you that success in AI visibility is 80 percent good fundamental SEO, they are selling you snake oil.”The AI-specific layer adds new visibility signalsA reputable GEO partner should also explain what changes in an AI-search environment. That can include work like:Improving entity clarityFormatting pages so answers are easier to extractOptimizing for citation-readinessExpanding prompt and query coverageMonitoring visibility across AI search enginesThat is the difference between a credible AI visibility agency and a hype-driven one. A hype-driven vendor talks like AI visibility is magic. A credible vendor explains how it strengthens the foundation, adds AI-specific improvements, and measures both.How to tell a credible GEO agency from a hype-driven vendorOne of the easiest ways to spot the difference between a hype-driven vendor and a credible AI visibility agency is to compare how they talk about the work. WebFX Pay close attention to the language a vendor uses in early calls and proposals. A hype-driven vendor often leans on phrases like “guaranteed citations,” “instant AI rankings,” or “exclusive GEO tactics” without showing what those claims mean in practice.A credible partner sounds more specific. They explain what they will improve, where they will start, and how that work supports both AI visibility and SEO performance.5 red flags to watch for in an AEO or GEO pitchYou do not need to be an AI search expert to spot weak vendor logic. You only need a few good filters. Here are the top 5 red flags that tell you an agency doesn’t specialize in GEO. WebFX 1. They promise guaranteed rankings, citations, or mentionsA credible agency can talk about increasing your chances of inclusion and improving visibility signals. It cannot guarantee how third-party AI systems will cite or summarize content on every query. When a vendor guarantees outcomes they do not control, it usually signals overconfidence or weak methodology.2. They cannot explain their methodology in plain languageIf the pitch stays at the level of “we help you rank in AI” or “we optimize for generative answers,” keep pushing. A credible partner should be able to say what they will audit, what they will improve, which page types they will prioritize, and how they will measure progress.3. They talk about AI visibility without mentioning SEO foundationsThis is one of the clearest signals that you are hearing a trend pitch instead of a strategy pitch. Strong vendors explain how technical SEO, content quality, information architecture, and authority support AI discoverability.4. They overfocus on one platformA partner can specialize, but they should still acknowledge that AI visibility spans multiple surfaces. If a vendor talks as if one tactic will solve visibility everywhere, that is too narrow for how search actually works now.5. Their reporting stops at “visibility”Visibility matters, but leadership will eventually ask what it is doing for the business. A stronger agency should be able to explain how it tracks early indicators, assisted conversions, qualified traffic, and downstream impact over time.Questions to ask an AEO agency before you hire themThis is the part many buyers skip, even though it is one of the best ways to separate a credible partner from a vague one. Bring these questions into your discovery calls.1. How do you define success for AI visibility?Look for an answer that includes both early indicators and business outcomes. A weak answer stays at mentions or impressions. A stronger answer includes visibility trends, traffic quality, assisted conversions, and revenue influence over time.Geo agencies that offer strong reporting make it easier to update leadership in your company. If you plan to pitch a GEO investment to leadership soon, I recommend reading our resource on how to build the business case for AI SEO for a more successful outcome.2. How does your strategy build on existing SEO work?A credible answer should make it clear that AEO or GEO does not replace SEO. It should explain how technical health, authority, and strong commercial pages support AI discoverability.3. Which AI surfaces do you monitor, and why?You want a thoughtful answer here, not a buzzword list. The agency should explain which platforms matter for your audience and how they track performance across them.4. What proof can you share beyond vague “AI visibility” wins?Ask for examples of reporting, not just claims. You want to see how the agency talks about progress, what it measures first, and how it connects that work to your funnel.5. Which pages would you prioritize first?A good answer should include high-intent assets like service pages, pricing pages, product pages, and comparison pages. Those pages often provide clearer commercial signals, stronger entity context, and better opportunities for answer extraction.6. How do you adapt as AI search changes?This is a fast-moving space. You want a partner that can test, measure, and refine instead of one that sells a fixed checklist and disappears.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What every man needs to know about testosterone and heart health What every man needs to know about testosterone and heart healthMost doctors regularly see a version of the same patient — a man in his early 50s who had the kind of cardiac workup his primary care doctor called reassuring: cholesterol and blood pressure within the traditionally acceptable ranges, no family history of heart disease. What isn’t done as often is a more comprehensive panel, including a marker most physicians don’t associate with heart health: testosterone.Low testosterone is both a warning sign of poor heart health and a potential contributor to it. Men with the lowest testosterone levels have a roughly 40% to 50% higher risk of heart failure than those with healthier levels. But even milder, age-related declines in testosterone levels can increase heart disease risk.Below, Hone Health outlines how low testosterone is linked to heart disease and what it can mean for men who want to better understand their cardiovascular risk.Why Testosterone Matters for Heart HealthTestosterone helps regulate the systems that keep your heart healthy:How your body handles blood sugarHow your arteries functionHow much fat accumulates around your organsWhen testosterone levels drop, those systems drift in the wrong direction at the same time, compounding risk. The damage can begin long before symptoms show up or standard cholesterol tests indicate a problem.Major organizations define a normal testosterone range, which represents the middle 95% of healthy individuals, to be 450–600 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter). Optimal testosterone ranges, which emphasize levels associated with peak functioning and reduced disease risk, may be 700–1200 ng/dL. At healthy levels, testosterone may be protective:Keeps blood vessels flexible and open for blood flowMaintains muscle mass and regulates blood sugarKeeps cholesterol in a healthy rangeTamps down inflammationBut 1 in 3 men between the ages of 40 and 80 have low testosterone. At levels below 300 ng/dL, those protections erode and are linked to a range of heart problems that can cascade into general health dysfunction. Men with chronic heart failure and low testosterone have measurably higher rates of death from any cause in observational studies. Hone Health Testosterone helps protect blood vessel function. Testosterone plays a role in producing nitric oxide, a compound that keeps blood vessels flexible and able to expand when the heart needs more blood — during exercise, for example, or under stress. When nitric oxide production declines, arteries stiffen, blood pressure rises, and the heart has to work harder. Over time, reduced blood flow can starve the heart of oxygen and raise the risk of clot formation in narrowed arteries.Low testosterone fuels chronic inflammation. Low testosterone promotes visceral fat — the deep abdominal fat that drives chronic inflammation, and inflammation is what turns cholesterol from a bystander into a threat. It activates cholesterol particles, drives them into artery walls, and triggers the plaque buildup that can eventually rupture and cut off blood flow to the heart. Men with low testosterone show measurably higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a key inflammation marker and strong predictor of heart attack and stroke. Another way we know low testosterone can drive inflammation is by the fact that adding it back in — through testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) — has been shown to reduce inflammation measurably.Testosterone improves insulin sensitivity. Testosterone helps regulate blood sugar by maintaining lean muscle, the body's primary system for absorbing excess glucose from the bloodstream. When testosterone drops, muscles become less effective at that job — blood sugar runs higher, insulin output increases, and the cycle can progress to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance, in turn, promotes the production of small, dense LDL particles that are far more likely to penetrate artery walls and drive plaque buildup than standard LDL particles, which are larger and fluffier and bounce through arteries without causing damage.Testosterone affects blood flow and clotting. Beyond stiffening arteries and accelerating plaque buildup, low testosterone raises hematocrit and fibrinogen, both of which promote clot formation — while reducing the body's ability to dissolve clots that do form. And because testosterone signals bone marrow to produce red blood cells, low testosterone levels lead to fewer oxygen-carrying red blood cells reaching the heart. Together, these effects create conditions where a clot in a narrowed artery is both more likely to form and harder to clear. Hone Health Heart-Safe TestosteroneThe myth that TRT is bad for your heart traces back to bodybuilders and athletes taking five to 10 times a normal dose, unsupervised.Restoring low testosterone to a healthy range under medical supervision is safe and effective. The TRAVERSE study—a large randomized trial of more than 5,000 men—found that testosterone therapy did not increase rates of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke compared to placebo, even in men with existing heart risk.Optimizing testosterone for heart healthStaying in the optimal testosterone range with TRT requires regular tracking of both total testosterone and free testosterone, the portion that's available for your body to use.It also requires monitoring levels of hematocrit, cholesterol and lipid ratios, blood sugar and insulin markers, as well as inflammatory markers, to make sure all stay in a healthy range.Healthy lifestyle habits, including diet, exercise, and stress management, support healthy testosterone production and influence how well the body responds to treatment.This story was produced by Hone Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cyclist hurt in hit and run; Whiteside County deputies search for damaged truck Deputies are searching for a damaged Ram 1500 that left the scene after striking a cyclist on U.S. 30 Sunday morning.
	Gift of Giving - Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities In April 2026, Necker's partnered with the Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities for the Gift of Giving.
	Country star Ella Langley announces Quad Cities concert date Country star Ella Langley will perform at Vibrant Arena at The MARK in Moline on Sept. 26 as part of the newly expanded Dandelion Tour.
	Small businesses are resilient. Data shows they’re also stretched too thin. Small businesses are resilient. Data shows they’re also stretched too thin.Small businesses are still hiring and hustling, but the financial reality underneath is a bit more fragile than their open doors and lit-up welcome signs suggest.The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index generally fluctuates between 90 and 115, with a 52-year average of 98. For April 2026, the index stood at only 95.9, indicating a marked reduction in optimism across industries. One of the 10 seasonally adjusted components of the score also fell for the fourth consecutive month to its lowest level since October 2024. What’s more, the NFIB Uncertainty Index stood at 88 in April 2026, well above the historical average of 68, a significantly elevated result, with only 4% believing conditions will improve.With the added context of what’s happening in the U.S. that is impacting small businesses, it’s easy to see that while Main Street remains resilient, it’s also stretched thin, no matter how you measure this sentiment trend, Thimble reports.Capital Flow Hasn’t Bounced Back to Pre-Pandemic FiguresAccording to Simplywise, compared to pre-pandemic numbers, 30% fewer firms reported revenue growth last year — falling to only 40% of firms surveyed now enjoying increasing earnings compared to 57% in 2025.What’s more, sales expectations for the next quarter hit their lowest reading in 12 months for small businesses. Firms are feeling the impact of numbers being down again month over month since the start of the year, still unpredictably tumultuous and not looking up yet.Only 47% of small business firms were operating at a profit when they were surveyed in 2025, compared to 55%-57% during the pre-pandemic (2016-2019) period. Top reasons cited in April of 2026 for lower profit reports include weaker sales (33%), increasing material costs (13%), and growing labor costs (9%).When revenue slows or is inconsistent, small business owners must look at cutting nonessential costs and streamlining efficiencies where they can. While owners can try to scrutinize every expense, unfortunately, slow capital flow can impact even important facets of their business model. From insurance coverage to digital tools, annual policies or agreements get treated as overhead rather than future-proofing investments.77% Of US Small Businesses Are Still UnderinsuredEven as revenues have improved since 2023, the number of small businesses that remain underinsured has increased. According to a recent 2026 survey by Hiscox, that figure isup from 75% in 2023 — to 77% in 2026. Sometimes the cause of underinsurance isn’t because it’s unaffordable, but rather it’s a knowledge deficiency or awareness issue.One in four (24%) small business owners said they wait to purchase insurance until they work full-time for their venture, while 21% wait to pursue coverage until their profitability exceeds $100,000 annually. What’s more, 83% of small business owners could not correctly describe what professional liability coverage includes, and 74% misunderstood general liability coverage, expecting it to address specific damages that are typically excluded from these policies. Thirty percent even dismissed the need for cyber insurance, specifically, believing that their businesses are too small to be targets, and 69% of survey respondents admit they struggle to understand insurance coverage.Just because business owners are typically experts in their own field of industry, it does not transfer to understanding the risks associated with their operations and/or products. This gap directly contributes to the underinsured population of small businesses. Generally speaking, business owners shouldn’t wait until they are working their venture full-time or exceeding $100,000 in annual revenue to purchase insurance coverage; by then, it may be too late. Not having adequate insurance can lead to vulnerabilities that a small business may not be able to overcome. From big financial blows to irreparable reputation damage, underinsurance is riskier than most small business owners believe.Workforce Gaps Create More Demand for Freelance and Gig WorkersEmployment and hiring challenges continue to plague small businesses across the country. In April of 2026, 18% of owners even cited the quality of the labor they are able to hire as their single most important problem — their top-ranked issue — 3% above the historical average.Thirty-four percent of small business owners reported having job openings they could not fill, and this figure is even higher in rural areas. From one farm equipment vendor in Vermont saying he ran ads for months with no qualified mechanics in the area, to one Tennessee services owner who says he could grow 30% if he had skilled workers available due to the demand that already exists, 94% of owners are still facing challenges like these in their businesses.When workforce gaps exist, owners are forced to get creative about their staffing and look to contractors, freelancers, and gig workers to bridge the gap. While this can be a huge win-win for the workers and business owners, it can also open vulnerabilities in places like security or insurance because temporary or part-time workers don’t automatically fall under owners’ traditional policies and procedures. It’s no surprise that employment practices liability (EPLI) is among the most common coverage gaps for small businesses so far in 2026.Tips for Overcoming UncertaintySmall business owners also have flexibility on their side. Pivoting and evolving are easier when you’re smaller, and you’re the one in the driver’s seat. There are a few ways to create additional resiliency, even if for temporary respite.1. Don’t Overspend CapitalFifty-four percent of businesses facing challenges in 2026 used the owner’s personal funds to cope, stretching themselves thin to prevent further or future financial challenges. Prevent overspending by reducing costs, even temporarily, if you can, and only use personal funds and new loans as a last resort.2. Leverage Your StrengthsDo you have geographical dominance or a unique identifier that you can lean into? Businesses that lean into their niche and make it clear exactly what they offer and how they are better than the competition make it easier for users and customers to see and trust the value faster. Finding and leveraging your small businesses’ strengths are imperative during times of uncertainty.3. Select Monthly SubscriptionsSwitch plans to monthly durations rather than annual to reduce overhead costs. Tools may be slightly more expensive in a month-to-month plan, but the monthly bill won’t break the bank. Make a list of vendors and check in on your options. Some insurance policies can even be purchased in short-term durations. Most tools aren’t all-or-nothing. Exploring your short-term options can make all the difference.4. Don’t Set It And Forget ItMany owners are spread so thin and wearing so many hats that they’ll often set-and-forget about a decision that might end up costing them money or time. For example, if you’re running a marketing A/B test and neglect to reroute all the traffic to the winner, you’re missing out on conversions. If you purchase annual insurance and don’t look at your policy before you auto-renew, you might be overpaying or may be underinsured because your policy should evolve with your business (revenue, employees, locations, etc.).The irony of being a small business owner who is hustling and yet stretched thin and barely making ends meet is that cash flow problems, thin margins and other financial challenges are also the ones who are the most exposed to risks and the least likely to make business changes like update insurance policies when times get tough.This story was produced by Thimble and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	7 habits of highly successful grocery store managers 7 habits of highly successful grocery store managersThe tasks of a store manager have become so much more complex than those of a typical retail store owner. Rising labor costs, supplier failures, and very demanding customers all require a lot of work to ensure that everything runs smoothly and that items are available at the lowest possible price. As a result, stores are becoming increasingly stressful to manage.With thin margins in place for most grocery products, stores aren’t able to absorb waste or inefficiency lightly; the smallest of losses can quickly mount up to serious damage. All aspects of the store’s operation must be effectively managed in order to protect profitability.The best store managers are consistent in their decisions while also making smart and informed ones. They strive to create habits that lead to wider visibility into store operations, accountability among store staff, and better decision-making overall. This means utilizing data to make the best store-level decisions and making the best choices regarding inventory management, reports Rapid Grocery POS, a provider of point-of-sale systems for independent grocers. Rapid Grocery POS 1. They Make Decisions With Data, Not GuessworkStrong store managers know that assumptions are expensive.Rather than making store management a purely intuitive task, the most effective managers develop a set of repeatable habits that bring visibility, accountability and good decision making to every aspect of the store. This means using a variety of tools to receive reports and tracking key metrics on a real-time basis using the store’s point of sale system.Knowing the key performance indicators (KPIs) of a store helps a store manager make better buying decisions, run more successful promotions, create a more efficient workforce, and ultimately make the best use of all resources in the store to maximize profits. In short, they can give you the reason for the decreased margins without you having to ask.A store manager’s job can become easier thanks to real-time reports generated by modern POS systems for grocery stores. These reports contain all of the relevant information about what’s going on in a store and enable the manager to make better purchasing decisions, implement promotions, and successfully schedule employees to ensure the store is running profitably.2. They Treat Inventory as a Profit CenterLosing the optimal amount of stock is one of the fastest ways to lose margin.There is a risk of having too much, which then goes down as “dead stock,” and also a risk of not having enough, which results in stockouts. Customers then abandon the store and travel to another retailer in order to purchase the products they need. The average retailer loses 4.1% of total sales due to stockouts; it’s very important to maintain an adequate level of stock to keep customers happy and boost margins. Rapid Grocery POS Store managers are able to keep tabs on their entire inventory of products, from the time they arrive at the store until they are sold at the point of sale. This helps them to see which products are flying off the shelves and which are gathering dust in the back of the store.This is particularly important for grocery stores, which contain a high amount of fresh produce, meat, and dairy products that have a shelf life and must be sold before they expire. In addition, many products in grocery stores are weighed or measured in some way before they are sold to customers (think “bulk items”), which can also add complexity to the store’s inventory.Managers who are able to track inventory in real time help prevent waste and keep customer satisfaction high.3. They Lead People FirstTechnology matters, but people still run the store.As the retail grocery industry continues to experience significant labor-related challenges, managers must begin to consider employee turnover as another cost of labor, which is far greater than mere dollars and cents. The turnover of store staff disrupts workflows, in-store training, and vital customer interactions. According to Grocery Dive, retailers reported an average 48% employee turnover rate in 2024, creating constant disruption in staffing, training, and customer service.Every time an employee leaves a store, not only does it lose the employee, but it becomes less productive and its customers will be less familiar with the staff.Top grocery managers use a number of techniques to keep the best employees. By developing the best work schedules, complete training of employees, and adequate communication, many managers find that retaining their employees is more cost-effective than having to hire new candidates in a timely manner.Managers who focus on their employees first create the best store teams and the best customer experiences and have the most stable operations.4. They Obsess Over Front-End EfficiencyCheckout is where customer experience becomes measurable.Wait times at the checkout line, slow entry of produce into the computer, inaccurate pricing of goods, and slow cash wrapping can all impact customer satisfaction. And while some customers may complain, other customers focus their frustration on the store itself.As managers analyze the ways in which their store operates at the front end, they keep a close eye on how customers move through the store, how cashiers perform, and how produce is scanned.From tools to manage weight and look up produce faster, to better organizing the front-end of the store, these processes all help to remove inefficiency at the checkout. Improved checkout speed translates into increased throughput and protects basket size. Rapid Grocery POS Speeding up the front-end of the store is about getting the greatest number of customers to pass through a given area in the shortest amount of time while providing each customer with a positive experience in the process.5. They Take Loss Prevention PersonallyShrink or loss is a huge problem in the retail industry today. Many companies treat it as a “cost of doing business” but smart managers and companies know that there is money to be made if they can cut down the rate.According to the National Retail Federation, shrink averages about 1.6% of sales across all types of retail.Even the smallest decrease in shrinkage can increase the profitability of a grocery store.While some types of loss are worse than others, all negatively affect the store. External theft is bad enough, but loss due to employee mistakes or dishonesty is just as, if not more, problematic. Voids, unauthorized discounts, refunds that were not approved, or pricing that was overridden by a team lead are all examples of types of loss that can be detrimental to a company’s bottom line.A good store manager is always on the lookout for potential problems that could arise at any time. This is where they’re able to implement various tools and methods to prevent losses. Some of the most effective ways of controlling loss would include implementing secure point-of-sale system permissions, monitoring transactions for any suspicious activity by reviewing detailed reports, and holding their employees accountable.Shrinkage should never be accepted as “normal.”6. They Eliminate Repetitive WorkA store manager’s time is very valuable, yet they still perform a lot of repetitive work.Tasks like counting inventory, filling out a reorder list by hand, scheduling employees, and monitoring the administrative tasks add up and the manager’s time is absorbed in a sea of mundane activity.Effective managers automate wherever possible.Inventory alerts and tools that manage purchasing through existing systems, employee scheduling, and real-time reporting of critical data points can take much of the administrative work out of a manager’s day.Automation does not replace the manager; it enables them to manage.Consequently, less time will be spent dealing with problems, and more time will be spent preventing them.7. They Think Beyond Today’s ShiftA great store manager is planning for the next five years, and when monitoring customer buying trends, evaluating product opportunities and trying to strengthen the store’s competitive position against national chain stores and big-box retailers. First and foremost, strategic growth requires operational clarity.A connected point of sale allows a store manager to monitor trends and buying behavior of customers to maintain the store’s position in the face of competition.Prepared foods, a strong loyalty program, a good merchandising of the store’s existing selection of fresh products, and technology to manage a store efficiently are ways that a manager can strengthen a store’s overall competitive position.Managers who have a handle on their store’s numbers today will be able to grow their store tomorrow.This story was produced by Rapid Grocery POS and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Eastern Iowa Community College hires new vice chancellor of academic affairs Eastern Iowa Community Colleges will be bringing in Comanchette McBee as the new vice Chancellor of academic affairs.
	Ella Langley bringing 'Dandelion Tour' to Vibrant Arena Ella Langley has extended her sold-out “The Dandelion Tour,” adding 21 new dates to her headline arena run, including a stop at the Vibrant Arena on September 26. Kameron Marlowe and Laci Kaye Booth will be the opening acts for the Moline show. Tickets for ‘The Dandelion Tour’ will be available through a presale starting [...]
	How small businesses can lean into AI’s growth moment How small businesses can lean into AI’s growth momentAI is driving growth for small businesses and changing work at the task level. It’s leveling the playing field and opening opportunities to accelerate faster than before, but any growth moment comes with challenges. AI is transforming work, but it’s not eliminating the need to manage it. To really scale with success, small businesses need to navigate increased compliance and workforce complexities.The key to sustained AI-driven growth is to put the foundational elements in place first and avoid “quick-and-easy” fixes in the form of plug-and-play solutions that won’t cut it in the long term. Only by establishing a solid business foundation can you clear the runway for success.According to ADP’s Spring 2026 Market Pulse Survey of 2,200 HR decision makers, smaller companies are more likely to believe that the use of AI can help increase productivity and help reduce costs. However, there remains an adoption gap between small and large companies. As company size increases, so does the likelihood of using AI for payroll and HR-related tasks.Set your small business up to scaleTo leverage AI to scale, small businesses need to first consider whether their operational foundation can support the growth that’s possible. Establishing clear systems early can keep you better organized as you grow and help prevent you from potentially scaling costly errors. Set up payroll early to help keep taxes accurate, speed up future hiring, and reduce compliance risk from the start. It’s important to formalize your policies too, to help set clear expectations from the outset and to have a resource for employees as you expand your team. This foundation will help power future automation and growth.Leverage AI to grow your small businessThese five common operations demonstrate how AI can be used to support a small business’s long-term goals. Hire quickly to support growthFinding qualified candidates can be one of the most difficult aspects of growing your small business. When demand increases, the need for additional headcount can often become urgent. Leveraging AI can help make recruiting faster and more efficient. However, it’s imperative that these processes have human oversight to ensure regulatory compliance.Get people up and runningThe predictability of employee onboarding workflows makes the process a top candidate for AI. AI can help automate routine tasks and checklist items, while alerting managers and HR practitioners if a new hire misses a check-in or encounters a problem. The key to AI-driven onboarding is finding a hybrid solution that integrates automation and tasks that must be done by humans. Personalization is key too, to ensure onboarding is tailored to the roles each new employee takes with custom skills-based learning paths.Stay on top of changing regulationsCompliance requirements for AI systems will get more complex, posing potential compliance risk for small businesses. Small businesses are navigating multijurisdictional AI rules, expanding paid and protected leave laws, employee classification rules, and joint-employer regulations, among others as regulatory fragmentation increases. To prepare for this evolving AI regulatory landscape, companies should establish clear governance and ownership of AI workflows, approval processes, and escalation paths while also implementing access controls, data protections, and real-time guardrail monitoring.Create a great employee experienceAI-assisted HR support services can apply data and expertise to help answer employee questions and resolve problems faster. However, using AI to enhance employee engagement requires balancing automation of routine tasks with person-to-person contact for relationship building and individualized guidance. To be successful, AI tools for skills and culture development must be able to surface internal knowledge and resources in real time, collect and analyze employee feedback just as quickly, and identify moments that need human support.Spot workforce needs and opportunitiesAs AI transforms work at the task level, job descriptions are evolving into personalized skills inventories that support proactive workforce planning intended to make companies as agile as possible. By spotting skills gaps, small businesses can better understand staffing needs based on projects. What’s required are systems that embed AI guardrails into these workflows to support compliance complexities.Rely on trusted expertise to build a strong business foundationThe most effective way for small businesses to grow and successfully scale their core business operations is by working with partners they know and trust. AI alone can’t successfully scale your business. Build a circle of trusted advisors and rely on them for practical advice when it’s time to graduate different systems and processes to support greater demand. Managing a workforce is still a deeply nuanced, human function, no matter how quickly you scale.This story was produced by ADP and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The brand ChatGPT recommends is almost never the one advertising, Floodlight data shows The brand ChatGPT recommends is almost never the one advertising, Floodlight data showsOpenAI opened its self-serve ad platform to all advertisers in May 2026, dropping the entry point from a $200,000 managed-service minimum to open access. The early coverage was predictable: Pilot brands like Expedia, Ford, Target, and Adobe got named in headlines, the platform reportedly hit $100 million in annualized revenue within its first six weeks, and the general consensus was that inventory was filling up fast. Floodlight, a programmatic ad solutions provider, ran 550 live queries across 11 consumer product categories to see if that was actually true. Here’s what the results showed.TL;DR: 84% of the 550 queries Floodlight tested returned zero ads, but in the verticals where ads did appear, the brands claiming those slots mostly had nothing to do with the product being asked about.Testing MethodologyAll 550 prompts ran on a free-tier ChatGPT account between May 18 and June 4, 2026. Currently, OpenAI only serves ads to non-paying users, so a paid subscription would have returned zero results regardless of what was being asked. The 11 verticals tested included baby gear, baby monitors, baby carriers, stroller wagons, car seats, cribs and crib mattresses, mattresses, beach tents, dog food, arch support sneakers, as well as women's care and clean beauty. Floodlight included 50 prompts per vertical.Each vertical's prompts were written across four intent types: buying intent, brand-focused, use-case, and informational. More importantly, they were written the way a real person actually types into ChatGPT. Nobody opens ChatGPT and types "arch support sneakers." That’s how they’d use a search engine like Google. Instead, they type something like: "I've been dealing with plantar fasciitis for six months and my podiatrist told me to get better arch support, what sneakers should I be looking at?" That's the kind of prompt that got used.Each of these ads was confirmed via DOM inspection and taking a screenshot. If it didn't show up in the website’s code, it didn't count. Keep in mind that this is three weeks of data on a platform that opened to everyone about two months ago, so treat this data as a first look.84% of Queries Returned NothingOf the 550 queries, 464 returned no ad at all. That's 84.4% without a sponsored result, brand name, or anything below the answer. Instead, the platform shows ChatGPT's organic response and a blank space where an ad could have been.There are five categories that had zero ads across every single query: beach tents, dog food, arch support sneakers, women's care and clean beauty, and car seats. To put this into perspective, a user asking ChatGPT which dog food is best for a senior lab with joint issues got a thorough answer and zero ads.This same result happened for every car seat query, every beach tent query, and every clean beauty query in the set. That's five categories where no brand has claimed any ad space (yet) and where any brand that sells those products could be the first to show up in these placements.However, three categories had a bit of activity. Cribs and crib mattresses had 80% of queries claimed, mattresses came in at 38%, and baby monitors only had the brand Nanit present. Everything else was somewhere between thin and empty.The Wrong Brands Are Claiming the Right QueriesOff-Category Brands Are Showing Up on High-Intent SlotsWhen someone searches for a specific product they're ready to buy, there should be an ad from a brand that sells that product. But as of writing, that’s not the case in many categories.Instead, the ad space is getting taken up by completely unrelated brands (hotels, luggage companies, grocery delivery apps, department stores). This isn’t because they're running a genius cross-industry strategy, but simply because they showed up and nobody else did.Floodlight’s findings showed that upon searching for baby carriers, the ads that appeared were from L.L. Bean and a sporting goods store. In ChatGPT’s organic answers, it consistently recommended Ergobaby. Since they hadn’t purchased ad space, they’re giving competitors the opportunity to start showing up as suggested items.The same results happened across other products. Stroller wagon searches returned ads for Away luggage and a baby registry site. Women’s care products showed Instacart ads. And searches for baby gear showed ads for Choice Hotels, Nissan, Car and Driver.The takeaway is pretty simple: If you're not advertising on searches for your own product, someone you are in competition with or completely unrelated to your business could collect that customer instead. Floodlight The Gap Between Organic Recommendations and Paid AdsChatGPT’s organic answers consistently recommend the same brands, and these are usually the ones that have great brand recognition, are producing quality insights and editorial content and have glowing reviews:In baby carrier queries, Ergobaby came up 26 times.In arch support queries, Brooks appeared 20 times.In clean beauty queries, ILIA showed up repeatedly.These brands are earning recommendations and none of them bought the ad unit sitting directly below their own name. By ignoring paid ads, these brands are giving their competitors the opportunity to get in front of their prospective customers.So the actual experience for a shopper looks like this: They ask ChatGPT about the best baby carriers, ChatGPT says Ergobaby in its organic answer, but then the first ad they see is for L.L. Bean. Ergobaby did the hard work of optimizing their online presence and building a reputation good enough to get recommended by AI, while L.L. Bean just happened to have an ad running.Ergobaby earns the recommendation. L.L. Bean gets the ad slot beneath it. The pattern stays true across every category where off-category brands appeared. The brand ChatGPT recommends isn't the one paying to show up below it. By all available evidence, they just don't know they can. Floodlight The Advantage of Moving EarlyThe opportunity for brands to capitalize is now. Crib and baby mattress brands have started buying these ad slots, and now 80% of that space is taken. This signals that the inventory doesn't stay empty forever. It fills up the moment the right brands catch on and decide they want to show up.Brands selling products like strollers, dog food, car seats, and more haven't quite figured that out yet. So right now, the opportunity to capture intent for those queries is there for the taking. Adopting a new channel early often means lower ad costs, less competition, and cleaner data on what's actually converting before everyone else arrives to the party.For any brand that's already getting recommended by ChatGPT, the math is pretty simple. Recommended brands did the work to build something valuable enough that AI mentions you by name. But someone else is buying the ad that sits right below your name.The headlines have called ChatGPT advertising a gold rush, but three weeks of data and testing across 550 queries tell a slightly different story. Floodlight found that most categories are empty, and the brands that did show up wandered in because nobody else was there.This story was produced by Floodlight and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	1 injured, hundreds evacuated after Dixon home explosion One person was seriously injured in a manufactured home explosion in Dixon. Elevated gas levels prompted the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
	Eastern Iowa Comunity Colleges names new vice chancellor of academic affairs Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) has a new vice chancellor. EICC has named Comanchette “Camie” McBee, M.Ed., to be its next vice chancellor of academic affairs. She will start in mid-July and provide leadership for academic programs and services across all college facilities, including the Clinton, Muscatine and Scott campuses. McBee has 14 years of community college experience, including work in academic operations, [...]
	Mental health counselor charged with ethics violation The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing administers the state's Board of Nursing and Board of Behavioral Health Professionals as well as other licensing boards. (Main photo by Getty Images; logo courtesy State of Iowa)The Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals has now disclosed disciplinary charges it filed last summer against a mental health counselor. State records indicate that on July 29, 2025, the board filed charges against licensee Linda Diane Lawman of Ames, alleging she failed to comply with the American Counseling Association’s code of ethics. The board has not disclosed the manner in which Lawman is alleged to have violated the code of ethics or indicated when the alleged violation took place, although board records suggest an investigation of the matter was initiated four years ago in 2022. In 2024, Lawman’s license expired, according to board records. This week, the board’s statement of charges in the case was published for the first time by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing. Since DIAL took over responsibility for many of the state’s licensing boards in 2023, there have been ongoing issues with lengthy, unexplained delays in the public disclosure of disciplinary charges and final orders issued by the various professional licensing boards. Board records indicate Lawman practiced mental health counseling in Grundy Center “during the time period relevant” to the case. The newly published hearing notice that accompanies the statement of charges in Lawman’s case states that a hearing on the matter was to be held two weeks ago on June 1, 2026. A DIAL official said Thursday the hearing was rescheduled and is now expected to be held on July 22, 2026. The Iowa Capital Dispatch was not able to reach Lawman for comment. Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Exploring the benefits of free community college Exploring the benefits of free community collegeA good education can expand your skills and open up new career opportunities. Attending community college for free can be a huge step in the right direction for those who qualify. No matter what stage of life you’re in — whether you’re unemployed, between jobs, upskilling in your current career or about to finish high school — there are options that can help you accomplish your goals.A new educational journey begins with knowledge. Explore the Mount Wachusett Community College guide to the benefits of free community college.Key TakeawaysFree community college offers significant career advantages by providing in-demand skills and local employment opportunities.Community college education is flexible, accommodating diverse learners with jobs, families and other life commitments.Free college programs substantially reduce the financial burden of higher education and related living expenses.Choosing the right program involves considering personal and professional goals, course availability, transfer options and financial aid.The Career Advantages Of Community College Mount Wachusett Community College Exploring your community college options can open your eyes to further education and career growth. While the specifics of every student’s learning goals will vary, the following career advantages will apply to most aspiring learners.Gaining In-Demand Skills For A New CareerCommunity colleges serve 44% of the undergraduate population in the United States. Ambitious learners choose community college for a host of reasons, such as:Hands-on learning: Many institutions offer practical, hands-on learning experiences. This can typically include internships and apprenticeships.Local business relationships: Some community colleges partner with local organizations to create training that meets skills gaps in the job market.Career support and guidance: Community colleges offer support to help students with job searches, resume writing and interview preparation.Employment opportunities: The local economy benefits from a wider choice of talent, which contributes to a wider range of job opportunities.To accommodate a wider range of learners, community colleges offer a variety of program types, from full degrees to individual skill-enhancing courses.Learning New Career Skills Around Life CommitmentsOne of the main reasons community college courses attract diverse learners is the flexibility it provides. There is typically a range of part-time, evening and online classes available. This offers a more level playing field for people with jobs, children and other life commitments outside of the classroom.Affordable education and flexible pacing are ideal for busy people. It means having the freedom to enroll in one course at a time or fast-track your courses through quick-semester learning opportunities. Motivated students can complete degrees or certificates at their own pace.Creating A Stepping Stone To A Bachelor’s DegreeCommunity college is a common starting point for many learners. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be an end point. Many people choose to explore free community college courses at the beginning of a four-year degree. This can be achieved through transfer agreements, which create a pathway to higher educational qualifications.In other words, many community colleges have agreements in place for earned credit to be transferred toward a bachelor’s degree. You have the potential to save money and get started in your chosen area of study.The Financial Benefits That A Free Education ProvidesMoney is one of the biggest factors preventing people from studying. A statewide survey on college attendance in California in 2022 found that almost a third of the 75,000 respondents didn’t know whether they could afford to attend college, citing work as a priority.Free college programs help reduce these concerns and motivate learners on the path to their chosen careers.Lowering The Cost Of Higher EducationExploring the benefits of community college can turn a career goal into a smart financial choice. But even if you choose a nonfree course, community college significantly reduces student debt. According to national data, the average tuition and fees at two-year colleges are less than half those at four-year institutions.Saving Money On Living ExpensesLocal educational opportunities mean avoiding some of the essential spending that four-year university studies require. These savings include:The ability to live at home rather than pay to live in dorms on campus.An option to make lunches and go home for dinner to avoid costly meals on campus.No long-distance travel costs to get back and forth during holidays and semester breaks.Significantly fewer, if any, fees to support athletic events, student life programs or on-campus services.This combination of small and larger savings can quickly add up over the course of a study term.Earning While You’re LearningNot everyone can choose not to work while studying. Determined learners can keep their jobs to maintain a steady source of income. This means being on the path to achieving your career goals and having the financial stability to support yourself and others.The Community College ExperienceEvery student should have a positive educational experience. For some people, this may mean wanting to know more about the unique environment of a community college. There are many aspects to the community college experience, including:Smaller class sizes: Fewer students per class give you direct access to professors and academic advisors. This contributes to a more personalized learning experience.Support and well-being: Like universities, community colleges will typically provide access to resources and support systems for student mental health and well-being.Long-term support: Students can plan ahead through counseling, transfer advising and career planning resources to support any long-term goals.A diverse community: A community college classroom is diverse. Your experience will include people from all walks of life, such as veterans, working parents and high school graduates.While your studying choice is always going to be about your future, you’ll also get some priceless life experience along the way.What Costs Are Actually Covered?If you pass the eligibility requirements for free community college programs, you’ll likely be covered for all major educational costs. This includes all tuition costs, any mandatory college fees and other course-related expenses like books. These programs are commonly known as last-dollar programs, in which students are covered for any costs that state or federal grants don’t cover.In other words, qualifying students will not receive any tuition bills.What Kind Of Programs Are Eligible?While the specific subjects may vary by college, associate degree programs and career certificates are available through these programs. Some of these programs may have set minimum GPA requirements that students must meet. If you’re exploring the benefits of community college courses but are unsure of which programs qualify as free, contact the advisory team of your potential future school.The Types Of Degrees At Community CollegeWhether it’s free courses or affordable education, a community college offers a range of degree and certificate programs. Some of these options include:Associate of Science (AS): A degree in fields like business administration, science, math and computer information systems, to name a few. This kind of study is designed for transfer to a four-year university.Associate of Arts (AA): A study for students planning to transfer to a four-year university that focuses on the liberal arts, life sciences and humanities.Certificates or diplomas: A shorter program of study that provides training and upskilling for people in specific career-focused areas.The majority of subjects in these degrees provide a seamless pathway to transfer to a four-year university.Considering What You Want Out Of Your StudyAs you explore your options, it’s important to keep sight of the reason you’re considering free community college options. It’s easy to lose sight of why you’re looking into further learning. As a final checklist, ask yourself the following to ensure your path aligns perfectly with your personal and professional goals:Primary goal: Are you aiming to transfer to a four-year university, or do you want to gain skills to enter the workforce quickly?Available courses: Are the courses of genuine interest to you, and do they align with the skills you want to learn?Transferring considerations: Have you checked that the community college has strong transfer or articulation agreements with a four-year university?Schedule and flexibility: Does the class scheduling help with your life balance? Are you able to study and maintain work or family commitments?Success criteria: Does the community college have support systems in place, such as career guidance, transfer advising and tutoring?Financial aid application: Have you completed and submitted a FAFSA to potentially qualify for free tuition and financial aid?Getting confirmation on these essential points will keep you motivated and ready to study, confident that you’re on the right path for your future goals.Making The Right Choice For Your Career GoalsNo matter how many benefits and incentives are available, making the right choice will always be a personal thing. This guide provides all the information needed to make that decision to support your long-term educational and career plans. But the actual choice is all yours.While in-state community college can be free, out-of-state learners can still benefit from a cost-effective way to learn. Once you’re sure of where you want to be, it’s a matter of knowing how to apply for the financial support solutions available. This can significantly reduce the concerns and lifestyle changes that come with other educational opportunities.It’s not just about financial freedom. Taking advantage of the flexible learning and smaller class sizes that free community college provides can make the process less daunting. With a more manageable education at your disposal, you’ll be able to better plan what to do with this education and where you want it to take you in your career.This story was produced by Mount Wachusett Community College and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Survey finds 81% of customer support agents say most conversations are never reviewed Survey finds 81% of customer support agents say most conversations are never reviewedAsk a customer support agent whether quality feedback helps them get better, and most will say yes. Ask if their conversations actually get reviewed, and the answer changes.In a survey of 500 full-time customer support agents, 81% said most of their conversations are never reviewed for quality. The same agents were clear that feedback works when it reaches them: 79% said the quality assurance feedback they receive is helpful.Solidroad's State of CX 2026 report asked customer support agents about how they are trained, evaluated, and coached. The signal that runs through the report is not that feedback is broken, but that effective feedback reaches only a fraction of the work, and the gap is widest exactly where it matters most.Feedback works, but most conversations never get reviewedQuality assurance is supposed to do two things: catch problems and help agents improve. On the second count, agents agree it delivers. Although 79% say the QA feedback they get helps them improve, 81% say most of their conversations are never reviewed, so that helpful feedback lands on only a minority of interactions.The coverage numbers show how small that minority is. Just over a third of agents (37.4%) say only 0 to 10% of their interactions are reviewed, and another 43.6% say between 11 and 50% are reviewed. For most agents, quality review touches a thin, unrepresentative slice of the work they actually do.That thin slice carries a hidden cost. When feedback rests on a handful of conversations, agents cannot tell which behaviors are consistently working and which need to change. A single review reads as a one-off rather than a pattern. Over time, agents stop trusting that the score reflects their real performance, and QA loses the thing that makes it worth doing: the power to drive steady, repeatable improvement.Why review coverage stays this lowLow coverage is a capacity problem, not a problem of will. The most common way agents receive QA feedback is one-on-one coaching, named by 44.1% of agents, and it is also the format they find most useful, chosen by 51%. Personalized coaching gives an agent the context to understand why a piece of feedback matters and how to apply it in the next conversation.The catch is that coaching is manual and one-to-one. It cannot stretch to cover every interaction. The more conversations a team handles, the wider the gap grows between what gets reviewed and what gets handled, no matter how committed the QA team is.This is the limit COPC, a customer experience standards and benchmarking organization, has long flagged in contact center quality. "Typical QA programs provide a limited view into a small sample of customer transactions and do not have a measurable impact on the customer experience or key business results," COPC says.Adding more reviewers is not the answer either. As COPC explains, "Having a massive team of quality evaluators is not economically viable for contact centers and forces them to take questionable sampling approaches."Manual review cannot scale its way out of the coverage gap.Where the coverage gap actually bitesThe gap does its worst damage at the start of an agent's tenure. New agents generally feel ready for the job: 82.5% said they felt prepared when they began handling real customer interactions, largely thanks to shadowing and peer-led onboarding.Feeling prepared is not the same as being equipped. When agents named the hardest part of ramping up, the top answer was not learning the product or finding information fast. It was applying their training to real customer situations, cited by 53.3% as the toughest challenge, ahead of every other obstacle.This is where the two findings collide. The hardest moment in the job is the live, unpredictable conversation. Those same live conversations are the ones least likely to be reviewed. So the point at which an agent most needs clear, specific feedback is the point at which coverage is thinnest. Training can build confidence before an agent goes live, but only feedback on real conversations turns that early confidence into consistent quality. Without it, agents are left to calibrate on instinct, in exactly the situations the survey says they find hardest.What closing the coverage gap looks likeThe fix is not more conviction about feedback. Agents already believe in it. The fix is reach: getting clear, grounded feedback to far more conversations than a manual process can touch.That means treating review coverage as a lever for customer experience quality, not a compliance checkbox. When a team reviews broadly instead of sampling, three things change. It can see which behaviors actually drive good outcomes, coach on real patterns instead of isolated examples, and shorten the time it takes a new agent to become consistently good. A small, sampled slice of conversations cannot reveal those patterns, no matter how carefully it is scored.Approaches built for automated quality assurance review every conversation rather than a sample, which changes what QA can actually see and makes an agent's hardest moments visible instead of invisible. The data points the same direction the agents do. Feedback works, but the job now is to make it reach the work so that the gap behind the 81% finally starts to close.This story was produced by Solidroad and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	FBI report highlights rise in AI-powered scams: News 8 This Week - June 21, 2026 A new FBI report shows AI is making scams more convincing. A cybercrime expert explains the risks and how to protect yourself.
	Mobile home park evacuated for high gas levels after explosion in Dixon, IL Officials are asking residents to evacuate immediately when contacted.
	Why vulnerability matters for men’s mental health Why vulnerability matters for men’s mental healthTraditional masculinity provides a pretty narrow definition of what it means to be a man. Picture the stereotypical “macho” guy. He’s physically big, strong, and muscular. But he has a specific personality too. He’s domineering and takes charge without hesitation. He doesn’t show certain emotions, because that could signal weakness. These harmful stereotypes have made it harder for many men to be vulnerable and ask for help, Rula reports.Vulnerability is the ability to reflect the truth about yourself even if it’s uncomfortable. It means opening up as our most authentic selves and sharing our emotions, thoughts, and experiences with others. Being vulnerable isn’t always easy. However, it can be especially difficult for men due to societal messages about masculine ideals. Learning more about men and vulnerability is especially important. That’s because 65% of men Cleveland Clinic surveyed in 2023 said they’re hesitant to seek professional help for mental health concerns such as stress, anxiety and depression.Key TakeawaysVulnerability is about opening up and sharing your authentic self with other people. Many men struggle with vulnerability due to harmful societal messages about what it means to be a “real man.”Vulnerability is a trait and skill. But sadly, many boys and young men aren’t encouraged to practice it. This can make it harder to demonstrate vulnerability in adulthood.An inability to open up can pose a risk to men’s mental health. Fortunately, you can do things to increase your comfort with vulnerability, including talking to a therapist.Why men might struggle with vulnerabilityIf you’re a man who struggles with vulnerability, you’re not alone. Many factors make it hard for men to express themselves authentically. These include:Vulnerability is practiced. Vulnerability is a trait, but it’s also a skill. Unfortunately, many men were never encouraged or taught how to practice it. From childhood onward, boys are taught to avoid emotional expression.Vulnerability can be seen as feminine. Emotional vulnerability is linked to femininity in patriarchal societies. Men are often pressured to avoid anything that could be seen as feminine.Men are taught not to ask for help. Common phrases like “man up” or “take his man card away” might seem harmless at first. But their underlying message — that a man should be able to handle any hardship without straying from the male stereotype — can have serious consequences.Men might have had negative experiences in the past. Past experiences can sometimes make vulnerability a challenge. For example, maybe a man tried opening up to someone and was met with nonacceptance, like ridicule or mocking. This may reduce the likelihood that they will be vulnerable again in the future.Men may feel ashamed of their emotional challenges. They feel that they make them less of a “real man.” So they may avoid being vulnerable because they don’t want to acknowledge their perceived flaws.How showing vulnerability benefits menNo one is immune to emotional struggles. However, not being able to open up can make emotions harder to manage. National Center for Health Statistics research shows that men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. And of the 1 in 10 men who experience depression or anxiety, less than half will receive treatment. Becoming more comfortable with vulnerability can make it easier to ask for lifesaving support. But it can benefit men in other ways too.Vulnerability can help you:Foster deeper relationships with partners, friends, and family.Signal to others that it’s safe to be vulnerable with you.Experience the feeling of being loved and appreciated for who you truly are.Play an active role in dismantling the stigma that keeps many men from opening up.Live a more authentic life and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.A note on safety: If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone. Their counselors will provide confidential support and resources to help keep you safe.Learning to embrace emotional vulnerabilityIt may take some time to get more comfortable with vulnerability. But know that it’s achievable with some patience and practice. Here are some actionable tips that can help you get started:Start small. What’s one small personal detail you can share with someone today? For example, if a coworker expresses something you can relate to, let them know. This simple interaction allows you to open up to another person.Challenge your fears. When you think about vulnerability, what scares you? Are you worried about being rejected? What would it be like to challenge that in the safety of a strong relationship? For example, imagine telling a good friend that you’re struggling in your marriage. What do you think they’d say?Practice positive affirmations. Part of embracing vulnerability is shifting your inner dialogue. You can use affirmations like, “It takes a lot of strength to ask for help,” to remind yourself that vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness.Talk to a professional. Some therapists specialize in men’s mental health. They can help you practice vulnerability in a safe and private setting. They can also recommend complementary supports like group therapy for men.Clinician’s takeAshley Ayala, licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical reviewer, suggests, “In therapy, men can unlearn the idea that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. When men start to see vulnerability as strength, they often feel a new sense of relief and freedom to speak honestly about what they're going through.”This story was produced by Rula and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How your business can beat the summer slowdown slump How your business can beat the summer slowdown slumpA summer slowdown doesn’t have to mean lost opportunities. If your business tends to slow down when schools let out, customers travel or seasonal demand shifts, this can be a good time to focus on the parts of your business that get pushed aside during busier months.For some businesses — like tax preparation firms, business consultants, tutoring and education services, yarn and knitting shops, winter-focused retailers, and other businesses that experience seasonal shifts in demand — summer can bring fewer customers and slower sales. But it can also create space to review your insurance coverage, train employees, refresh your marketing, improve operations, and prepare for the months ahead.ERGO NEXT compiled a list of six ways to make the most of a summer slowdown and position your business for a stronger second half of the year.1. Use your time to forecast and plan for holiday salesIf you think summer is too early to start thinking about the holidays, think again. Look at your numbers from last September through January. And ask yourself these questions:Which weeks were the busiest?What services or products seemed to sell the most?When did things start to feel a bit stretched or understaffed?Take notes, see what sales or products moved best, and put some thought into how you can do more of the same when your business starts to pick up again. Think about how you can adjust your inventory, tweak your scheduling, or make a few smarter calls on staffing before you’re in the middle of the season. Making plans for production, inventory, and staffing now can help you feel more prepared when sales pick up.2. Hire and train your team for busy times aheadA summer slowdown can be a good opportunity to invest in your team. When customer demand is lighter, you have more time to recruit and train employees before business picks up again.Summer can also be a good time to find talent. In 2025, the youth labor force grew by about 1.9 million workers between April and July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as students and recent graduates entered the job market. If you’ve been thinking about adding employees, this may be a good time to start looking.Even if you aren’t hiring right now, consider using the extra time to help your current employees build skills and prepare for busier months. Replacing an employee can range from 50% to 200% of that person’s annual salary depending on their level, according to research cited by SHRM, making retention and training worthwhile investments in your business growth.A few areas worth focusing on include:Training on core business systems. Make sure employees are comfortable using your point of sale, booking, scheduling, or inventory management tools.Review day-to-day processes. Walk through common tasks and identify areas where mistakes, delays, or confusion occur.Improve communication. Revisit how your team stays in touch, handles customer requests, and communicates throughout the day.Refresh safety training. Review equipment use, heat safety, and any job-specific risks, especially for hands-on or outdoor work.Clarify roles and responsibilities. Make sure everyone knows their role, what they’re responsible for, and who to go to with questions.A little extra training now can pay off later when business picks up and your team has less time to learn on the fly.3. Confirm your business insurance still has you coveredGive your business insurance coverage its annual review. Not just because your business needs may have changed, but because it’s easier to catch gaps when you’re not in the middle of crunch time.A lot of owners aren’t totally sure where they stand — about 90% say they’re not confident they’re adequately insured, according to a 2024 NEXT Insurance survey. A quick review of your policies can help you make sure your coverage still fits your business and the work you actually do.If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few questions to think about as you review your coverage:Has your team changed? If you’ve hired employees, brought on part-time help, or changed the type of work employees do day to day, review your workers’ compensation coverage. Annual workers’ comp audits or reconciliations often look at payroll and job classifications, so it’s important that your policy reflects both how many people work for you and the job they’re actually doing.Does your coverage match how you operate? If you’ve added services, changed locations, started selling online, or taken on different types of jobs, your coverage may need to change, too.Is your business gear, tools, and equipment covered? General liability insurance typically doesn’t cover your own business property. If you need help protecting inventory, tools, equipment, or a physical workspace, commercial property insurance may be a coverage you’d want to add. It can also help cover lost business income in certain covered situations. If you regularly take tools or equipment to jobsites, tools and equipment coverage could help protect those items while they’re away from your primary business location.Do you sell products, even occasionally? If you sell products in-store, online, or at pop-ups, make sure you have product liability insurance coverage. It doesn’t cover your inventory itself, but it can help protect your business if a product you sell injures someone or causes property damage, even if product sales are only a small part of your business.Are you driving for work more often? If you or your team use vehicles for business, commercial auto coverage may make sense or need an update.Will you need to share proof of insurance? New clients, landlords, vendors, or contracts may require certificates of insurance (COIs), or proof of your coverage, and how much you have. It helps to know how to get or access a COI before you need one.4. Pressure test your business operationsWhen business is busy, you find ways to work around small problems. But maybe you know your scheduling system is clunky. Maybe your inventory tracking isn’t quite where it should be. A slower month gives you a chance to examine your processes and fix the workflows that everyone complains about but no one has time to fix.Check these common pressure points for resource-strapped small business owners:Are your scheduling, booking, or POS systems still working for you? If your team is relying on work-arounds or manual processes, it may be time for an upgrade.Are you carrying the right amount of inventory or offering the right services? Review what’s selling and whether you can free up cash by reducing slow-moving stock. If you’re a service business, evaluate your service offerings, identify what’s most profitable, and consider whether adjustments could better meet customer demand.Do you have all the tools and equipment you need? This can be a good time to repair, replace, or maintain equipment before it becomes a problem later.Are there parts of your workflow that regularly cause delays? Look for repetitive tasks, bottlenecks, or processes that could be simplified.Are your vendor relationships still working well? Check in with suppliers, review pricing with competitors, and make sure you’re prepared for future demand.5. When’s the last time you thought about workplace safety? Do it now.Safety often falls into the “we’ll get to it later” category. The problem is that “later” never happens when business is busy. Now might be the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at your safety practices, inspect equipment, and make sure your team knows what to do if something goes wrong.Consider using your extra time to:Inspect equipment and workspaces. Look for worn tools, damaged equipment, trip hazards, blocked exits, or anything else that could create safety issues later.Review emergency procedures. Make sure employees know what to do in the event of an injury, severe weather, equipment failure, or other emergency.Update or create standard operating procedures (SOPs). Documenting routine processes can improve consistency and reduce mistakes when business picks up again.Refresh employee training. Review equipment use, workplace safety practices, and any job-specific risks your team may encounter.Prepare for seasonal weather conditions. Review safety procedures related to the weather risks your employees are most likely to face, whether that means heat and sun exposure, severe storms, cold temperatures, snow, ice, or other seasonal hazards.You don’t need a major safety overhaul. Even a few small improvements now can help create a safer workplace and prevent bigger problems down the road.6. Work on your marketing plan — or try something newQuieter work days can give you the opportunity to experiment, reconnect with customers, and find new ways to bring people through the door.You don’t need a massive marketing budget. A few focused efforts can help keep your business visible and generate future demand.Consider these ideas:Refresh your online presence. Update your website, Google Business Profile, social channels, and online directories so customers can easily find accurate hours, contact information, products, and services.Host an event or workshop. A yarn store might offer a beginner knitting class. A retailer could host a product demonstration or customer appreciation event. Even a small gathering can help build community and create repeat customers.Partner with neighboring businesses. Team up on a local promotion, sidewalk sale, or community event. Cross-promotions can help introduce your business to new customers without a significant investment.Reconnect with past customers. Send an email or offer a special promotion to remind people you’re there. Existing customers are often easier to win back than new ones.Show what you’ve been working on. Share photos, customer success stories, new products, or behind-the-scenes content. People are more likely to buy from businesses they feel connected to.Test a new idea. Consider introducing a new service, product bundle, loyalty program, or seasonal promotion while you have time to measure results and make adjustments.A slower season doesn’t have to mean standing still. Even a few small marketing experiments can help build momentum and uncover new opportunities for growth.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Explosion reported at Dixon manufactured home park One person was transported to a hospital after a reported explosion in a manufactured home community in Dixon this morning. A news release from the City of Dixon said firefighters were called to the 1500 block of Estates Road in Chateau Estates on June 22 at about 6 a.m. for a reported explosion involving a [...]
	2 students in custody after shooting at high school in Philippines kills 3 An investigation is underway to determine the cause. Police said the suspects claimed they were bullied at school.
	Where real estate investors are headed in 2026: 10 under-the-radar cities worth watching Where real estate investors are headed in 2026: 10 under-the-radar cities worth watchingThe “hot” and “trendy” cities that consistently generate the most noise often carry enormous premiums built on amenities that residents might only use a small fraction of the time. For rental housing investors, those premiums compress returns before the first tenant even moves in.The smarter play is finding cities where people genuinely want to put down roots and where the housing market hasn’t fully caught up to that reality yet. These are cities that people want to live in because of good jobs, decent schools, ample social opportunities, and the ability to build a nice life.How can investors identify these types of underrated cities? Look for markets where residents can comfortably spend less than 30% of their income on housing; where the job market is stable and diversified; where crime rates fall below the national median; where there are enough restaurants, live music, cultural anchors, and outdoor options for residents to enjoy in their free time; and where population trends confirm that people are choosing to move there and stay.Using rent growth, vacancy rates, inventory, and migration data from ResiClub, alongside quality-of-life research, RentRedi looked at 10 metro areas in the U.S. that deliver on all of those counts and are markets worth looking into.1. Grand Rapids, MichiganLinkedIn named Grand Rapids the No. 1 U.S. metro for jobs in 2025, with manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services leading hiring. The area added 2,000 positions that year and is attracting 25-to-34-year-olds at a higher rate than the entire state of Michigan or the national average. The downtown has a real identity: a dense restaurant and brewery scene that earned it the Beer City USA designation, above-average schools, and an active arts calendar. Inventory sits at 3.50 homes per 1,000 households, flat year-over-year (YoY) as demand absorbs supply as fast as it arrives. Rent is up 4.1% since last year, and net migration increased by 7,585, then 10,335, then 7,653 residents over the past three years.2. Reno, NevadaNevada’s lack of state income tax has attracted Tesla’s Gigafactory, Apple data centers, and advanced manufacturing, turning Reno into a legitimate tech and industrial hub. Lake Tahoe is 30 miles west, and downtown has a music and arts scene anchored by the University of Nevada. Inventory dropped 1.50 homes per 1,000 households over the past year, from 7.33 to 5.83, and the migration rate has accelerated three years running with 16,496 net new arrivals during that time period. Rent is also up 7% YoY.3. Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, New Jersey/PennsylvaniaThe Lehigh Valley ranked No. 1 nationally among midsize markets for corporate facility projects in 2025, for the second consecutive year, recording a $57.3 billion GDP in 2024spanning healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and professional services. This metro area is centrally located: 60 miles north of Philadelphia, and 90 miles west of New York City. Bethlehem ranks highly for education, amenities, and safety, and Allentown’s downtown revival won two 2025 Urban Land Institute Awards. The area’s cost of living runs well below the Northeast corridor average. Inventory sits at 3.48 homes per 1,000 households, and migration patterns show that the area has added 16,243 new residents over the past three years. School quality varies, as the suburban corridor consistently outperforms Allentown city schools.4. Clovis-Fresno, CaliforniaFor investors looking for entry into California’s housing market, the Clovis suburb of Fresno may be the best shot. Home prices and cost of living run well below the California average, keeping acquisition costs low enough to support positive cash flow. The greater Fresno metro area has added 25,136 net new residents over three consecutive years, inventory sits at 5.38 homes per 1,000 households, and rent is up 2.9%. Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and the San Francisco Bay Area are all within day-trip range, and the region has a diverse food scene rooted in its agricultural heritage. One distinction that matters: the quality-of-life case is strongest in Clovis, which has a crime rate well below the national average and some of the best-rated schools in California. This is not the case in Fresno proper.5. Fargo, North DakotaMicrosoft has one of its largest U.S. employment bases in Fargo, and the local job market spans healthcare, bioscience, ag-tech, manufacturing, logistics, and software. Unemployment sits at 2.6%, far below the national average of 4.3%. North Dakota State University provides a college-town energy with live music, brewpubs, and a downtown scene that surprises most first-time visitors. WalletHub ranks Fargo among the most affordable cities for renters in the country. Inventory dropped 1.46 homes per 1,000 households over the past year and currently sits at 6.33. The three year net migration is plus 10,106 residents, and rent is up 9.8%. The biggest caveat: the winters are harsh, but the combination of job security, low costs, and livability is the trade-off.6. Sioux Falls, South DakotaSouth Dakota has no income tax and no corporate tax, and Sioux Falls has built a stable economy around healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing. Niche gives it an A- overall and ranks it the top South Dakota city for jobs, healthcare, and cultural amenities. WalletHub found residents spend about 16.4% of income on rent, second lowest nationally, and placed it among the top 40 safest cities in America. More than 80 parks, 30 miles of bike paths, and a downtown district with Broadway touring shows make up the social scene. With a three-year positive migration rate of +7.69 per 1,000 that added 15,841 residents since 2023, Sioux Falls is trending up for population growth. Inventory sits at 9.94 homes per 1,000 households, with demand keeping pace and rent rising 4.5% since last year.7. Manchester-Nashua, New HampshireRecently named the hottest housing market in the U.S., this duo combines Manchester’s strong economy anchored by healthcare, education, and technology with Nashua’s commuter community for the greater Boston area, which has significantly higher median home prices. The area boasts a lower unemployment rate than the national average and attracts a high-earning demographic of young working professionals who provide a stable source of rental cash flow. Over the past three years, the metro has added 7,086 net new residents. Inventory sits at just 2.73 homes per 1,000 households (one of the tightest markets in the Northeast), and rent is up 2.8%. Although the cost of living runs high compared to the national average, New Hampshire has no state income tax and no sales tax.8. Staunton-Waynesboro, VirginiaTucked into the stunning Shenandoah Valley at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Staunton-Waynesboro is a lifestyle market with investment upside attached. Its cost of living and violent crime sit far below U.S. national averages, and the American Shakespeare Center, Mary Baldwin University, and Shenandoah National Park give the area cultural and recreational depth. A new 170-acre industrial park is under development on the I-81 corridor. The migration rate of +10.86 per 1,000 residents is the highest in this list, and has been consistent across three years. Inventory has tightened marginally, sitting at 4.75 homes per 1,000 households, and rent is up 5.4%. The area’s proximity to Shenandoah National Park also supports short-term rental demand.9. Abilene, TexasOne of the fastest growing areas in the country, Abilene’s inventory dropped off a cliff from 10.17 to 4.66 homes per 1,000 households over the past year, a decline of 5.51 and the sharpest tightening in the ResiClub dataset. Rent is up a whopping 36.8%, driven largely by construction workers arriving to build the Stargate AI data center. The underlying market was growing even before that, with net migration of 2,544, then 1,226, then 1,710 new residents across three years. Home prices run about 43% below the national average, cost of living is low, and the violent crime rate is 21% below the national figure. The economy spans manufacturing, wind energy, aerospace, healthcare, and Dyess Air Force Base, not to mention four universities. The Stargate effect on rents warrants a watchful eye as construction paces downward, and it remains to be seen whether the influx of workers is temporary or if they will stay long-term.10. Spokane, WashingtonSpokane offers Pacific Northwest geography without Seattle’s cost of living, which runs considerably above the national average compared to Spokane, which sits slightly below. Washington has no state income tax. Health and social assistance jobs have grown recently, providing stability if not the diversification of larger metros. Net migration has been consistent: 3,488, then 3,293, then 3,349 new residents over three years. Inventory is rising at 8.61 homes per 1,000 households, up 1.47, but the steady inflow suggests demand is absorbing the new supply. Spokane’s city council approved a Plan Spokane 2026 blueprint for infrastructure to support an anticipated 20,000 new residents over the next 20 years.What the data reflectsAfter a cautious 2025, when 55% of rental property owners made no purchases at all, RentRedi’s Q1 2026 Rental Investing Sentiment Survey of 884 landlords found that 51% plan to buy one or two properties this year. The same survey found 54% cite rising costs as their primary challenge. Buying into a market where entry prices run 30% to 43% below the national average improves potential appreciation and protects margins from the start.At the national level, Chandan Economics and RentRedi’s May 2026 Independent Landlord Rental Performance Report, which tracks on-time payments across more than 63,000 independently managed units, shows 84.5% of rents paid on time in May, up from a September 2025 low, with a full-payment forecast of 97.1%. That recovery is real but uneven by region. Markets where residents aren’t financially stretched by housing costs tend to produce more reliable payment behavior.Managing properties in emerging marketsFor landlords expanding into a new city, especially one outside their home region, operational efficiency is a real competitive advantage. RentRedi’s Q1 2026 survey also found that time commitment ranked as the second-biggest barrier to growth for rental investors, behind only rising costs, a gap that widens when managing properties remotely.All inventory and migration data is from ResiClub: Inventory figures reflect May 2026 vs. May 2025 (homes per 1,000 households). Rent growth figures reflect year-over-year change as of March 2026. Migration figures reflect net domestic migration counts and rates for the July 2024 to July 2025 period. Rent growth and vacancy data are also from ResiClub. On-time payment data is from Chandan Economics and RentRedi’s Independent Landlord Rental Performance Report, May 2026 (63,038 units). Survey data comes from RentRedi’s Q1 2026 Rental Investing Sentiment Survey (884 respondents) and RentRedi’s 2025 Real Estate Investment Trends Survey (3,749 respondents).This story was produced by RentRedi and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Planning a vacation? Travel scammers may already be watching Planning a vacation? Travel scammers may already be watchingTravel scams are a fast-growing type of fraud currently affecting travelers worldwide, with online retailer Booking.com reporting an up to 900% increase in fraudulent listings between 2023 and 2024.Unlike other scams that can be a shot in the dark, travel scams are becoming more targeted than ever. Scammers rely on sophisticated data scraping methods that allow them to tailor their bait to the victim’s personal interests. These methods, alongside the rise of AI-generated content that looks quite convincing, create the perfect storm, leading to higher chances of trapping the victims.PeopleFinders created this guide to boost your chances of spotting potential travel scams, and added some cybersecurity tips to protect yourself against intruders who steal your data for nefarious reasons.The Digital Footprint That Predicts Your Next VacationYou might have heard the term “algorithm” thrown around regarding how websites and apps show you their content. It simply is a series of predictions based on the type of content you usually interact with, which creates a log of data about your age, gender and sexuality, interests, hobbies, and location of residence.The algorithm is usually created by a service you use or a website you frequently visit to cater to your priorities and give you the ads you’re more likely to interact with. Some apps and websites also ask for permission to monitor your internet use elsewhere to tune the algorithm to your likes and dislikes.Things like your search history, posts mentioning travel on your social media profiles, and the cookies stored on your devices can paint a pretty accurate picture of your travel plans.How Scammers Target Travelers: From Loyalty Breaches to Ghost ListingsScammers always jump on cutting-edge technology to get their way, which means their methods are a step ahead of what regular users are familiar with. The following are some common ways travelers might get scammed.Loyalty Program ExploitationSome websites and apps that give you a service pertaining to travel (like accommodation booking or travel planning) have loyalty programs that store a bunch of your information. If the website’s data gets stolen, logs containing your travel preferences and priorities fall into the wrong hands.The hackers stealing the data usually sell it to someone who wants to target the victims of the data breach with a hyper-targeted scam, and travel scams are usually the perfect bait.Hyper-Targeted Phishing SchemesIf your contact information becomes available to scammers, you might start receiving emails, text messages, or even automated calls advertising free or super-cheap vacations.These scams aim to trick you into submitting sensitive financial information, like credit card information, so they can have access to your money. The method of contact doesn’t matter, but the way they reach out is usually personalized with your name to add legitimacy.Fraudulent Rental ListingsIf something looks too good to be true, especially when it comes to travel, it probably is. Aside from listings for rental places that don’t exist in real life, you might also run into AI-enhanced images of suboptimal rental properties with super low prices, or pay for a short-term rental, like an Airbnb, that someone else has already booked at the same time.This is one of the most common types of travel scams worldwide. It’s also is particularly damaging, costing the victim the entire amount they sank into paying for the fraudulent accommodation, airfare, and then the replacement rental, where they’ll actually stay.Reclaiming Control of Your Personal Travel DataProtecting yourself from potential travel scams requires applying a few extra layers of security to your online presence. Here are a few tips to stay on the safe side:Obfuscate travel intent. You can do this by creating burner email addresses to sign up for travel services, using “incognito mode” on your browser while searching your destination, and using private search engines that don’t track your activity.Delete unused loyalty accounts. These accounts, whether for an airline or hotel chain, can be the gateway to stealing your data because they’re not very secure. Track down all your accounts and delete them, even if they’ve been dormant for a while.Conduct a prebooking security check. Even if you trust the website you’re using to make bookings for your next stay, you could receive phishing emails that match the official email used by the website. You should do a reverse email search for each confirmation email you receive to make sure you’re on the right track before you share any sensitive financial information. You can also use a reverse phone lookup if they’re calling you directly.Practice Smart Browsing to Ensure Safe TravelsTravel scammers are joining forces with hackers, data brokers, and AI to create some of the most legitimate-looking targeted ads and emails. Even though the most experienced users can fall for these traps, being vigilant and double-checking each step can go a long way in preventing scams.Keeping an eye out for unused loyalty accounts, using private browsing, and checking every email for legitimacy can help protect your financial and personal information even as these dangers spread.This story was produced by PeopleFinders and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	QR codes are helping transit systems adapt without rebuilding infrastructure QR codes are helping transit systems adapt without rebuilding infrastructureThe passenger information systems market is experiencing unprecedented growth, expanding from $29.5 billion in 2023 to an expected $90.8 billion by 2032, according to a 2023 SNS Insider forecast. Despite this massive investment, transit systems worldwide still struggle with the same fundamental challenge: static infrastructure serving dynamic passengers.Signs and printed schedules rarely change, yet commuters need to adjust their routes in real-time, responding to delays, diversions, and crowd flows fast. Even the digital tools (apps, announcements, boards) meant to help are struggling to keep pace.QR Codes offer a simple alternative. A QR Code placed on a platform can deliver the exact information a rider needs in that moment, without friction or hardware upgrades. With the right placement, you can turn existing infrastructure into a flexible digital layer that keeps up with commuters.In this article, Uniqode examines how QR Codes can turn existing transit infrastructure into a more adaptable network.The distribution problem in transit informationOnce a commuter is already in motion, the challenge shifts from generating information to ensuring it reaches them at the exact moment they need it.Here’s where the gap shows up:Commuters who aren’t in the system daily (such as tourists, visitors, or occasional commuters) often lack established habits and tools, resulting in them missing updates entirely.Static signage can’t react to small, rapid changes, such as diversions, short delays, or platform swaps.Staff support can thin out during peak hours or disruptions, leaving commuters to figure things out on their own.The result is a distribution problem: Real-time updates exist, but they don’t consistently reach commuters when they need them most.The impact is measurable: SNS Insider’s report also found that over 80% of commuters report feeling more confident in their travel plans when provided with real-time information. Yet most transit systems struggle to deliver this information cost-effectively at scale.QR Codes as a flexible digital layerDigital transformation in transit doesn’t always require new hardware. QR Codes provide a way to add real-time digital services to physical infrastructure without altering the infrastructure itself.The contrast in implementation approaches is stark: An industry analysis of Cubic Corporation’s Umo platform estimates a roughly $30 million investment to support 900 buses across 30 transit systems in 2022, whereas QR Code implementations can cover entire networks without incurring per-vehicle hardware costs.Let’s look at some practical applications of QR Codes tailored to real operational needs.Real-time movement guidanceCommuters make decisions in seconds. QR Codes help surface real-time movement data exactly where those decisions happen. For instance:Next arrivals, delays, platform shifts: Place QR Codes on pillars, screen casings, elevator railings, and staircase landings. A commuter waiting on a crowded platform can scan once and see whether they should stay, move, or switch routes, similar to how airport travelers scan QR Codes at gate screens for instant updates.Localized direction at high-traffic nodes: At choke points, such as escalator exits or interchange corridors, passengers often pause due to uncertainty and confusion. A QR Code here can open a station-specific layout, showing the fastest path to lines, exits, or less crowded waiting zones.Ticketing and fare accessA 2021 study sponsored by the National Institute for Transportation and Communities found that around 30% of transit riders still relied heavily on paying cash when they boarded buses, which leads to longer queues. Add that to fare confusion, and you have slow boarding and an increasing staff workload.QR Codes can enable commuters to complete payment tasks without queuing or navigating a complex app.Here’s how you can implement this:Buy or top-up passes: A QR Code on turnstiles or shelter glass can lead directly to a secure top-up flow. This reduces cash handling and kiosk congestion.Instant access to pricing information: Many commuters want to check fares before they travel, but often do not know the cost until they reach the station or board. A QR Code at station entrances or inside vehicles can provide immediate access to current pricing, fare options, and payment methods before they travel.Alerts and safety informationTransit systems can use QR Codes to keep commuters oriented during unplanned events.For example:Diversions, construction, and weather-related changes: QR Codes on temporary barricades or construction fencing can direct users to updated walking paths, shuttle replacements, or alternative platforms.Emergency instructions at the commuter’s pace: Instead of relying solely on loudspeakers, QR Codes inside vehicles and stations can link to evacuation steps, multilingual safety videos, or incident reporting forms so transit riders can follow along without panic.Did you know? A 2024 Asahi Shimbun report described how a Tokyo transportation engineer used QR Codes to create a safety system while cutting costs by 99.9%.When the Tokyo Metropolitan Government faced a $13.5 million bill to install radio systems for platform safety gates on the Asakusa subway line, engineer Seiji Okamoto proposed using QR Codes instead.The solution uses QR Code stickers on train doors that cameras scan to synchronize platform gates with train doors. The total cost for QR Code implementation: just $2.7 million. The technology now operates across Tokyo's subway system and has been adopted by other railway companies across Japan, all without licensing fees.Multilingual and accessible supportCities with international visitors or diverse communities often struggle to communicate consistently. QR Codes provide on-demand clarity through:Instant translations and route explanations: A QR Code on fare machines or concourse signage can offer supported languages without cluttering physical space.Step-free routes and accessibility tools: Placed near elevators, escalators, or tactile surfaces, QR Codes can show accessible pathways, lift outages, or allow users to request assistance directly, similar to how accessibility zones in airports use QR Codes to guide passengers through mobility services.Beyond the stationThe commuter's journey doesn’t start at the platform, and it doesn’t end there either. QR Codes extend guidance into the first and last-mile movement.For example:Bike docks, shuttles, walking paths: A QR Code at transit exits can show commuters what’s immediately available, like nearby bike docks, walking routes to popular destinations, or shuttle schedules.Intermodal connections: At interchange nodes, QR Codes can display how to transition smoothly between rail, bus, ferry, or micromobility.The infrastructure advantage: Every surface becomes usefulQR Codes work best when they work with the infrastructure that commuters already interact with. Instead of adding new equipment or finding space for more screens, agencies can turn familiar surfaces into small digital touchpoints that support commuters throughout the network.Activates existing assetsTurnstiles, shelters, pillars, benches, seat backs, vehicle windows, and even temporary barriers are all surfaces commuters naturally look at or touch, and can function as real-time information points. QR Codes enable each one to share helpful information without altering the physical layout of a station or vehicle.Reduces hesitation and eases crowd flowWhen transit riders know exactly where to go or what’s happening next, they stop pausing in circulation areas. QR Codes placed at natural decision points like platform entrances, escalator exits, and interchange corridors help reduce clustering, improve wayfinding, and keep movement smooth during busy periods.Allows fast updates without replacing physical materialsBecause with dynamic QR Codes, agencies can update what commuters see instantly without reprinting maps, replacing signs, or dispatching staff. It doesn’t matter if it’s a temporary diversion, a construction detour, or a short-term service change; updates go live the moment operations publish them.A more adaptive transit experienceResponsive transit systems are designed to make everyday commuter interactions as clear and easy as possible. As agencies look for practical ways to modernize service, the real shift is moving guidance and information closer to the commuter.QR Codes offer agencies a lightweight way to support transit riders throughout their journey, adding small moments of clarity that accumulate across the entire travel network.This story was produced by Uniqode and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	First Davenport Tattoo Fest brings more than 200 artists to RiverCenter Artists from across the country gathered this weekend for the city's first Tattoo Fest, turning the RiverCenter into a showcase of art and competition.
	Healthcare Careers: A Pathway to Success for Kansas City Professionals (NAPSI)—U.S. workers are facing a tough job market for entry-level white-collar roles—yet some of the fastest-growing, most upwardly mobile careers remain widely overlooked. Consider this: Healthcare provides in-demand jobs students can prepare for through shorter, career-aligned training programs. Nurses and doctors tend to be the first roles that come to mind when thinking of healthcare. But there are several pathways into healthcare, including roles that many people have never heard of. For example, at Concorde Career Colleges’ Kansas City Campus, students are preparing for a variety of rewarding healthcare roles. Whether you’re looking for your next step after high school or you’re mid-career and looking for a change, healthcare is worth exploring, especially if you want to make a difference in your own neighborhood. “We’re hearing from students that they want to get their training done quickly and then get into the workforce to start working in a field that is in demand,” said Dr. Amanda Oppel, President of Concorde Career College–Kansas City. “Healthcare roles require hands-on skills that are harder to automate than typical office jobs. Whether taking vitals in a clinic, or assisting with surgery in the hospital, there’s always going to be a need for healthcare workers.” Healthcare Careers You Can Start Sooner Than You May Think Here are two examples of healthcare roles students prepare for at the Concorde Career College–Kansas City campus: 1) Radiologic Technologist What They Do: As a Radiologic Technologist, you’ll perform diagnostic imaging exams, such as X-rays. A Radiologic Technologist works with physicians in hospitals, healthcare facilities, local medical centers, and imaging centers. Who is a Good Fit: This program is very competitive and a good fit for focused students with an interest in math and science who want to make a difference in patients’ lives. People with strong interpersonal skills, patience, and attention to detail are a good fit for these roles. Job Outlook: Nationwide, overall employment of radiologic and MRI technologists is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. Locally in Missouri, projected growth for Radiologic Technologists is 8%. Course Work: Course work emphasizes skills directly transferable to a real-world work setting including topics such as: anatomy and physiology, patient care in radiology, and advanced imaging. After graduation, students are prepared to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination to become Registered Technologists in Radiography. How to Get Started: Concorde can help you take the first step in realizing your career aspirations in the diagnostic health care field as a radiologic technologist. An accelerated associate degree can be completed in as little as 20 months. 2) Surgical Technologist What They Do: Surgical Technology is an exciting field where you get to work alongside surgeons, physicians, nurses, anesthesiologists and other healthcare professionals. As a Surgical Technologist, you’ll help prepare operating rooms, equipment, and assist medical professionals during surgeries. Surgical Techs keep the operating room safe and organized. They help ensure procedures go efficiently and effectively. Professionals in this field: Prepare patients for procedures and care for them post-surgery Sterilize and manage supplies, instruments, equipment and facilities Assist surgeons during procedures Who is a Good Fit: Someone who likes organization, works quickly, and is focused. This role is good for someone who wants flexibility and opportunities to travel. Job Outlook: Nationwide, overall employment of surgical assistants and technologists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Locally, in Missouri, projected job growth for surgical technologists is 9% (from 2022 to 2032). Course Work: Concorde puts you in the center of the surgical tech field through engaging coursework and hands-on learning experiences that prepare you for real-world work settings. You’ll complete 74 credit hours and 570 clinical hours to prepare for this field. How to Get Started: Concorde can help you take the first step in realizing your career aspirations through an associate degree. The Surgical Technology program can be completed in as little as 17 months. Funding Your Education Funding options for students who want healthcare careers include loans, grants, and other types of financial aid for those who qualify. Some sample grants include: Healthcare Demand Grant (amount varies per program): The Healthcare Demand Grant is designed to assist new, enrolling students pursuing education in a healthcare program. No application process. All newly enrolled students are reviewed for eligibility. Previous Education Grant (up to $4,000 for Surgical Technology): The Previous Education Grant is designed to assist new, enrolling students pursuing education in a healthcare program who have previously graduated from an accredited post-secondary institution with an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree. Learn More To learn more about these programs and others offered at Concorde Career College-Kansas City, visit https://www.concorde.edu/campus/kansas-city-missouri. Word Count: 760
	Supreme Court allows a ruling that ends a tool to protect minority voters in 7 states The Supreme Court has left in place a ruling that strikes down a key tool for enforcing Voting Rights Act protections for voters with a disability or an inability to read or write in seven states.
	The surprising climate fix that Democrats and Republicans both love The surprising climate fix that Democrats and Republicans both loveDemocrats and Republicans agree on virtually nothing at this point, except the desperate need to build more housing in the United States. Depending on your viewpoint, the country needs new domiciles because it puts people to work and stimulates local economies, or because it creates affordable homes and drives down housing costs, thus reducing homelessness. Affordability, including in housing, is now one of the biggest political issues in America.Neither party, though, is talking about the secret superpower of new apartment buildings: They’re much better for the planet than constructing single-family homes. According to a new report, these units are “an almost automatic form of building decarbonization,” because three-quarters of new apartments are heated electrically. That means they can run on rooftop solar panels or tap into grids humming with clean energy, instead of burning planet-warming natural gas in furnaces or boilers.While the Trump administration and the Republican Party at large try to roll back as much climate progress as they can, they’re inadvertently bolstering that progress by calling for new construction. Deep-red Montana, for instance, recently passed a flurry of bills to get more multifamily housing built. “Apartments are the climate solution hiding in plain sight,” said Alan Durning, executive director of the nonprofit Sightline Institute, which authored the report.Grist examined how the construction of more apartment buildings would be a climate-friendly way to address the nation’s housing needs.Nothing against single-family homes, but apartment buildings and condos are much more efficient for a number of reasons. For one, residents share walls, floors, and ceilings with their neighbors, surrounding them with excellent insulation. Secondly, the square footage of each unit tends to be smaller than detached homes, so there’s less air to manage. Accordingly, it takes less energy to climate-control apartment units and keep people comfortable: The typical resident of a downtown high-rise emits one-third as much greenhouse gases as a resident of a detached house in the suburbs.Because of this inherent efficiency, apartment builders have for decades opted to install what’s called electric resistance heating, like baseboard heaters, instead of gas furnaces. That’s because wiring them up is cheaper than piping in all that methane. “If I am building something with the intention of renting it, I really want to minimize my upfront costs,” said Amanda D. Smith, senior scientist at the climate solutions nonprofit Project Drawdown, who studies the built environment but wasn’t involved in the new report. “Often electric water heaters and electric heaters for space heating make sense from that perspective.”Economic forces, then, have long encouraged the adoption of such systems: 68% of apartments built since the early 1970s have been heated with electricity, the report notes. Half a century ago, no one was campaigning to decarbonize buildings to fight climate change — going electric was just the better option. Today, if you live in an apartment, you’re 60% more likely to be all-electric than your neighbor living in a house.And apartments can get even greener. Heat pumps — which move warmth from outdoor air inside, instead of generating it like a gas furnace does — are around three times more efficient than space heaters. Over the past few decades, the technology has gotten more powerful, capable of extracting heat from even freezing outdoor air. That’s helped heat pumps proliferate across even the chilliest climes: Maine installed 100,000 of the appliances two years ahead of schedule, and almost two-thirds of households in Norway use them. Heat pumps are increasingly popping up in American apartment buildings, too: While quite rare in the decades after the 1950s, heat pumps have been incorporated into 18% of these structures in the Northwest since 2010, the report notes. (Overall, heat pumps have outsold gas furnaces in the U.S. for several years now.)While traditional electric heat pumps work like air conditioners, in that you need an outdoor unit that connects to an indoor one, new varieties are easier to incorporate into apartments and condos. One from a company called Gradient fits like a saddle over a window sill and plugs into a regular outlet, with installation taking less than a half hour. (Think of it like those old-school AC units jutting out of city apartment windows, only much cooler looking.) Another launching this winter combines the two units into one attached to an interior wall, where it exchanges air with the outside. “Making retrofits simpler will be a game-changer,” Smith said.If new buildings in hotter parts of the U.S. rely upon gas heating, they’d still need an air conditioning system. The beauty of a heat pump is that it can reverse in the summer to fill a home with cool air. As temperatures rise across the country, heat pumps will not only work more efficiently than space heaters and gas furnaces to warm apartments, but to provide invaluable cooling to keep people healthy. Already in the U.S., heat kills more people every year than all other forms of extreme weather combined.Making a building’s heating fully electric encourages the adoption of another appliance critical for reducing greenhouse gas emissions: the induction stove. “If you’re building a building and you’re heating and cooling with heat pumps, it doesn’t really make sense to hook it up to the gas system to pipe a tiny bit of gas in for people to cook on their gas stoves a couple of times a week,” said Matt Casale, managing director of states and regions at the nonprofit Building Decarbonization Coalition, which wasn’t involved in the report.All this electrification could potentially slot into a burgeoning technology known as networked geothermal. Instead of a building’s heat pump using outdoor air, it uses liquid pumping underground. Because the earth’s temperature remains a more consistent temperature year-round than the air, these heat pumps are even more efficient at warming a space. If all of an area’s buildings — apartments or otherwise — are hooked into a networked geothermal system, there’s no need to pipe gas into the neighborhood at all. “It’s a real community-based energy system, and you’re using energy that’s literally homegrown,” Casale said. “It’s right under your feet.”Beyond their superior energy efficiency and tendency to go electric, apartment buildings provide denser housing, fitting far more people into a footprint than a single-family home could manage. If located near daily essentials, like grocery stores, residents can walk instead of drive, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Ideally, robust public transportation systems can get those apartment dwellers anywhere they can’t walk to.Building big apartment buildings of just apartments, though, just won’t cut it, said Cécile Faraud, head of the clean construction program at C40, a global network of climate-focused mayors. These structures need mixed uses, where living spaces sit atop commercial spaces, like markets and doctors’ offices. “So you can access care, you can access education, you can access your needs in terms of shopping,” said Faraud, who wasn’t involved in the report. “But also in terms of health, so being able to exercise in parks, etc., and access to nature.”Indeed, what surrounds these apartment complexes matters, too. Green spaces reduce temperatures, boost residents’ mental health, and provide habitats for native plant and animal species. Better yet, “agrihoods” surround working farms with multifamily housing, generating nutritious produce for residents to enjoy or sell. (Faraud stresses that in addition to creating more housing, cities need to retrofit existing buildings to be more energy efficient, like with double-paned windows and better insulation.)Constructing apartments, though, is often way more difficult than it should be, housing advocates say. The new report notes that “apartment buildings of at least four stories are currently allowed on less than 1% of the residential land in all but 10 Oregon cities” — even in progressive Portland, that figure is 14%. “The main thing that we need to do is relegalize apartments in a much larger area of our cities,” Durning said.Cities and states are responsible for that, not the feds. But the growing national push from both parties to get more units built will be a win-win for people and the planet. “Even across a political landscape that’s as fractured and divided and as contentious as what we’re seeing now,” Smith said, “I think most people are willing to say: We want people to have homes.”This story was produced by Grist and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Are CDs safe? Your guide to certificate of deposit security Are CDs safe? Your guide to certificate of deposit securityHere's the quick answer: Yes, certificates of deposit (CDs) are considered safe. CDs from FDIC-insured banks are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership category.The beauty of CDs is that they combine safety with predictable payouts. Unlike many deposit accounts, where rates can change, CDs earn a fixed interest rate for the full length of your selected term. Ally Financial covers the basics of understanding CDs, their risks, and how to manage them.CD safety at a glance Ally Financial What is a CD?A CD is an interest-bearing deposit account in which your initial deposit is held in a savings account for a specified amount of time. A CD has a fixed-term length and maturity date, which typically can be anywhere from a few months to a few years. At the end of the CD’s term, you can withdraw your funds from the CD without penalty.Think of it as making a deal with your bank: You promise to leave your money untouched for a set period, and in return, the bank pays you a higher interest rate than you’d likely get with a regular savings account.How safe are online CDs?Online CDs are just as safe as CDs from a physical bank, provided the institution is federally insured. You can typically open your CD online in just a few steps.In fact, digital banks may even be able to offer higher rates, since they don’t have the overhead costs of brick-and-mortar banks.Compare CDs vs. other savings optionsUnderstanding how CDs stack up against other savings options can help you make the right choice for your financial goals. Ally Financial CDs vs. savings accountsCDs typically have a higher annual percentage yield (APY) than savings accounts, but they're more rigid in how you can access your money. You also cannot add money to a CD after the initial 10-day grace period is up. CDs are opened in lump sums, while savings accounts let you deposit money whenever you want.While savings accounts usually have variable interest rates, CDs allow you to lock in a fixed interest rate for a set period, which means you could keep a great rate even if market rates drop. Keep in mind that a fixed rate also means you might be stuck with a lower rate if interest rates rise before your term is up.Common risks to considerWhile CDs are among the safest options available, it's important to understand a few possible drawbacks:1. Inflation riskIf your CD's interest rate is lower than the rate of inflation, your spending power will decrease over time. For example, if your CD earns 3% annually but inflation is running at 4%, the real value of your savings is declining — even though your balance is growing. Keep the inflation rate in mind when shopping around for competitive CD rates.2. Interest-rate risk, or opportunity costLocking your funds in a long-term CD means committing to that rate for the entire term. If interest rates rise during your CD's term, you would miss out on those higher returns. A CD laddering strategy, which spreads funds across CDs with staggered maturity dates, gives you periodic opportunities to withdraw or open those same funds at better rates.3. Early withdrawal penaltiesMost CDs charge a penalty if you withdraw before the term ends. These penalties can reduce your interest earnings and, particularly with short-term CDs, may even impact your principal. That’s why it’s important to fund a CD with money you won't need during the term.Why should you consider opening a CD?CDs come with a lot of benefits that make them an attractive choice for stashing your savings:Predictable payouts: Locking in an interest rate at opening means you know exactly how much you’ll earn. CDs might also offer higher rates than traditional savings accountsSafety: As long as you’re banking with an FDIC-insured bank, you’ll be protected up to the maximum amount allowable by law. Since CDs are deposit accounts, there are no associated market or volatility risks, plus your principal is protectedFlexibility and convenience: Most banks and credit unions offer CDs, and they’re typically easy to open online, especially with a digital bank. You can also select a CD that matches your goal.Balance solid payouts with peace of mindBefore you decide if a CD is right for you, think about when you will need the money, how much you can expect to make, and the potential penalties if you need to take the money out early. With the right CDs and a good savings strategy, it's possible to strike a balance between earning interest at competitive rates and protecting your savings against loss.This story was produced by Ally Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	GIFT Gardens invites community enjoy local gardens, breakfast, in news summer series GIFT Gardens invites the community to experience the beauty and generosity of local gardens through a new summer event series: Breakfast in the Garden, a news release says. The series will feature four garden gatherings hosted at different GIFT Garden locations throughout the growing season. Guests are invited to enjoy a light breakfast, tour the [...]
	An effective way to incorporate private assets into your investment portfolio An effective way to incorporate private assets into your investment portfolioIncorporating private assets into a traditional asset mix allows for a more precise investment allocation that can maintain a portfolio's risk-return balance.Investors have long relied on a classic allocation between equities and fixed income to pursue growth and manage risk. But today’s increasingly complex financial landscape calls for a more thoughtful approach to portfolio construction, which is why investors are increasingly investing in private assets. Incorporating private assets into a traditional asset mix is an effective way to boost returns while adding diversification to your portfolio. In making the change, a key question many ask is: How do private assets fit into my existing portfolio?There are many benefits to adding private equity and private credit to your investment mix. Because private asset prices tend not to be correlated with stock and bond market movements, they can offer reduced volatility through diversification — and access to the innovation that is reshaping the global economy. It doesn’t hurt that they also have a track record of higher long-term returns than public assets.How do you strategically incorporate these less-liquid, longer-horizon assets into an existing, well-constructed public markets portfolio? For Christopher Ginter, director of private markets at Fifth Third Private Bank, the answer lies in applying the same foundational investment principles — your objectives, constraints and diversification — while accounting for the unique characteristics that come with investing in private markets.How to blend private assets into your portfolioAccording to Ginter, incorporating private assets doesn’t require a complete portfolio overhaul. In fact, the most effective strategy is often a precise, thoughtful reallocation. “You begin with the same considerations you would for a public portfolio,” Ginter says. “Time horizon, liquidity and legal constraints all play critical roles in why — and how — you bring private assets into the mix.”Assuming the individual meets the regulatory requirements for buying private assets as a qualified purchaser and accredited investor, Ginter recommends a like-for-like approach: Fund private equity investments by trimming existing public equity exposure, and fund private credit by reducing bond holdings.“This way, you maintain the original risk-return characteristics of your portfolio while potentially boosting returns.”Rather than investing all at once, consider a phased approach, known as vintage year diversification. In private asset investing, vintage refers to the year in which a fund begins deploying its capital. With vintage year diversification, for example, if you want to allocate $1 million to private equity, you might commit 30% in year one, 30% in year two, and so on. This strategy spreads risk over time and helps smooth out the impact of market cycles.“Vintage year diversification also allows investors to gradually build familiarity with the asset class,” Ginter notes. “Most clients who’ve been with us for three or more years increase their allocations, but we always suggest starting small.”Understand private investment trade-offsWhile the potential upside is compelling, private market investments come with some important trade-offs. Chief among them is illiquidity. Private funds often require 10-to-12-year commitments, with distributions delayed until years six or seven. That means investors need enough liquidity elsewhere to weather market downturns without tapping into locked-up capital.“You need to match product structure with your financial strategy,” says Ginter. “Someone with $50 million might tolerate more illiquidity than someone with $5 million — but even more important is understanding how the capital will be used.”In practice, the key is balance: maintaining enough liquidity to meet spending requirements while allocating a portion of the investment portfolio to long-term, higher growth opportunities.Choosing the right fund managersFund manager selection is arguably the most important factor in private investing success. Since private funds are less regulated than public investments, due diligence is critical. Ginter’s team uses a five-pillar evaluation framework — people, process, performance, philosophy and product terms — to identify the most capable partners.“You want managers with a unique investment edge, strong operational infrastructure and a solid track record,” he explains, “and you need to understand the fine print — fee structures, leverage and key-person clauses vary widely.”Investing in private markets requires the right tools and insights. Analytical resources like the Takahashi-Alexander model, which is used to forecast capital calls and distributions, and data from PitchBook, to benchmark performance, help ensure private assets remain aligned with a broader portfolio management strategy. But as Ginter cautions, “The models are helpful, but they’re not magic. You still need sound judgment.” That’s why it’s critical to have knowledgeable investment managers to help you navigate these complex decisions. The investment teams at Fifth Third Private Bank have many years of experience with private asset investing and portfolio allocation.Private markets' future strategyPrivate market investments aren’t just a tool for diversification; they can be a gateway to where the economy is heading. Innovations in AI, robotics, blockchain and health care are often incubated in private companies long before reaching public markets. Investors who gain early access to these trends are better positioned for long-term growth.Private assets are also ideal for building intergenerational wealth. “If your time horizon is 10, 20 or even 30 years, private investments can be a powerful part of your legacy planning,” Ginter says. “They’re well suited for gifting strategies, trusts and long-term endowments.”For investors seeking to enhance returns, diversify meaningfully and invest in tomorrow’s innovation, private assets offer a compelling value proposition. They’re not for everyone, but for those who can tolerate limited liquidity and longer time horizons, they can be a transformative addition to the traditional stock-and-bond mix.This story was produced by Fifth Third and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Kansas state employees to see 15% spike in health insurance if they stay with Blue Cross Blue Shield Adam Proffitt, chairman of the Kansas State Employees Health Care Commission and secretary of administration, is concerned about the lack of a pay raise for state employees and the effects raising insurance costs will have. He appears here at a press conference on April 20, 2026, at the Statehouse. (Photo by Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)TOPEKA — Kansas state employees choosing Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas health insurance next year will see rates rise by 15% while employees choosing Aetna won’t see an increase as the state encourages a shift to the less costly insurance. Kansas state employees could lose Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance in cost-saving move Members of the Kansas State Employees Health Care Commission expressed dismay that state employees received just a 1% raise this year and spent more than three hours at their June meeting looking at ways to lessen the impact of rising health insurance costs. To meet statutory requirements and make sure there are reserve funds in the state insurance plan, rates had to be raised, commissioners said, as they considered options to change plan deductibles and determine rates for the state and employees. At previous meetings, the commission considered dropping Blue Cross as an option to save money because the proposal made by Aetna was less expensive. But employees from across the state objected, raising concerns including whether the Aetna network is strong in rural areas among other issues. About 34,500 Kansas employees chose Blue Cross as their insurance carrier in 2026, while 4,500 chose Aetna. In the end, the commission tried to incentivize employees to move to the Aetna plan by approving an increase of 15% to the employee contribution for Blue Cross, no raise for Aetna insurance and a 16% increase in what the state pays. Employee contributions will go up Jan. 1, 2027. Changes were also made to increase plan deductibles. Adam Proffitt, commission chairman and secretary of administration, listed the increases state employees have shouldered for health insurance in 2016 through 2019 — 6.4%, 9%, 7.7% and 3.3% for employee only plans. “There were no pay raises in any of those years,” he said. For employee, spouse and child plans, increases were 36.7%, 30.4%, 31.8% and 16.7% during those years, Proffitt said. “There’s only a 1% increase for state employee’s pay this year,” he said. “In my estimation, I think the state owes either a pay increase or holding the line better on benefits.” Proffitt said an employee making $30,000 a year would receive a $300 salary increase that will be “wiped out” with the increase in benefits costs. Even with the increases in costs, the state insurance funds are projected to have $7 million at the end of 2027 and nearly $40 million at the end of 2028, according to data shared at the meeting. That is about $55 million below statute requirements, which require a percentage of estimate claims to be held in reserves, in 2027 and $27 million below in 2028. Rep. Bill Sutton, a Gardner Republican who serves on the committee, said the health care fund was projected to have a balance of nearly $40 million this year, but early in the year, that was wiped out. In earlier discussions, staff attributed the drop to higher medical trends and higher pharmacy trends, with specialty drugs driving much of the reason for the higher expenses. “We’re looking at ending in a terrible position this year and what we’ve done with these changes is simply, hopefully, ending in no worse terrible position a year from now,” he said. “I’m not sure what we’ll do if we have a similar course of events that occur early in 2027 that would simply wipe out the projected balance we have.” Sutton said he’s hopeful the commission can build up the fund so “large, dramatic changes” aren’t needed to stay solvent. Courtesy of Kansas Reflector
	Who lives on your street? Here’s how to find out Who lives on your street? Here’s how to find outWhether you’re new to a neighborhood or just want to get to know the people that live around you, it’s fair to wonder who exactly lives on your street.Before you go knocking on doors or handing out platters of cookies, modern tools can help you get a head start on getting to know who your neighbors are, so you can better engage in your community, connect with the people that live near you, or even find out which houses you might want to keep your distance from. Spokeo recommends a few different methods that can help you get started.Key Takeaways:Start researching who lives on your street by checking public resources like your local recorder’s or assessor’s office.Run a reverse address search to find out more information about your neighbors or who lives at a certain address.Get involved in local community activities or programs to help get to know your neighbors.How To Use Public Records to Research Your NeighborsPublic records can be a decent jumping-off point if you’re looking for a free and easy way to start your “who lives on my street” search. That said, public records can often be disjointed, requiring multiple searches across county, state, or federal government agency websites to put together useful information. Here’s how to do the two most common (and easiest to execute) public records searches.Searching An Address with Your Local County Assessor’s WebsiteIf you’re looking for general property records, your local county assessor’s website is the place to start. It won’t have complete information for every address but can potentially provide some information about things like:Assessed property valueProperty characteristicsRegistered ownerSearching the National Sex Offender Public WebsiteIf you’re safety-minded and want to vet your neighbors (or future neighbors), the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) is a good public resource. If you want to check if a registered sex offender is living on your street, the NSOPW tracks and logs the 800,000 or so registered sex offenders in the U.S. You can run a search by simply following these steps:Navigate to https://www.nsopw.gov/.Enter your address.Select your state in the dropdown menu.Select the mile radius (1, 2, or 3 miles) you’d like to search.After pressing the submit button, you’ll be shown a map with the registered addresses of any offenders, including their photo and information on their offense.Using People Search Tools to Find Out Who Your Neighbors AreIf we’re being honest, searching up your neighbors through public records can be a bit of a slog, eating up a bunch of time for no guaranteed gain. Even if you are able to track down some of the basic information you’re looking for, most of it won’t be particularly useful in letting you know who your neighbors are as people.Conducting a reverse address search takes just seconds — less time than you’ll spend navigating a state’s or county’s website just to find where to search — to pull together data from billions of public sources and present the available information in one neatly formatted package.How To Do A Reverse Address SearchTo get the full picture of a person who lives on your street — or three streets over, for that matter — you only need the address. Here’s how it works:Type the address into a reverse address search tool.Results may include the current legal owner of the property, and also the current residents (they aren’t necessarily the same).Scroll through the report to see details about the property itself, if that’s of interest to you. There will also likely be a list of current and former residents of that address, and you may be able to click on the name for whichever one you want to learn more about.These results can contain a huge variety of information about the people who call that address home, including the names of each person registered at that house. It could also turn up some additional details about the people who live there, including:Family informationMarital statusContact info (including any phone numbers and email addresses connected to that person)Public profiles from over 120 social networksWork and education historyCriminal records/arrest records/sex offensesDepending on your goals, you could either run a reverse address search on just your next-door neighbors or continue along your block and the surrounding streets, searching each address in turn, until you’ve made it through everyone in the neighborhood.Additional SearchesThe results of your address search will arm you with everything you need to dig deeper, if you want to. Searching your neighbors’ full names, one or more phone numbers, or email addresses can reveal additional information that might not come up in the address search, including some more insightful stuff, like their public social media accounts.Glancing at their posts on social media can help you gather a general feel for their attitudes, interests, and outlook on life in general. Based on that, you can infer which of your neighbors is likeliest to be “friend material,” and find some common ground that you can leverage as the basis of a new friendship. That’s one of the challenges of moving (finding friends in a new city, as an adult, can be tricky).Join In on Neighborhood Activities and ProgramsUsing the power of the internet is certainly a good first step in getting the lay of the land as it pertains to who your neighbors are, but if you really want to get to know them, you’ll eventually have to move from your screen to face-to-face interactions.If you’re looking to get involved in your local community (and learn more about who lives near you in the process), look for programs or activities like:The Parent Teacher Association (PTA)Local fundraisersCommunity events (seasonal concerts, movie nights, etc.)Frequenting local restaurantsTrivia nightsNeighborhood clean-upsNothing is going to help you get to know your neighbors like…actually getting to know them!Just Say ‘Hi’Sometimes the most straightforward answer is also the easiest. Whether you’re out on a walk, watering the plants, or just about to hop in your car, a smile and a wave can be the basis for starting a conversation that helps you get to know each other.FAQs About Reverse Address LookupsWho has lived at my address?If you’re curious about the history of your house, there are a few ways you can learn about the previous occupants. 1. Go to your local recorder’s office to access historical property records showing every owner. Or 2. Get your address history by using an address lookup feature.How do I figure out who my neighbors are?Start by running a reverse address search if you are curious about specific neighbors. If you want to actually get to know them, just start by saying “hi” when you see them around, or get involved in local activities that will help you interact.Can you find out your neighbor’s name?Whether you’re just curious about a specific neighbor or keep forgetting their name and are too embarrassed to ask again, running a reverse address search can help you get a list of who lives at a specific address. Once you have a name, you can run it through the name search tool to get additional details (including public social media accounts) that can help you confirm it’s the current occupant.This story was produced by Spokeo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Facing scorching summers, Oregon lawmakers may revisit heat pump expansion programs Oregon could once again expand state programs reliant upon heat pumps to provide air conditioning to residents. (Photo by Douglas Rissing/iStock Getty Images Plus)The demand for more resources to support access to air conditioning continues to rise in Oregon nearly five years after the deadly Pacific Northwest heat dome, and state leaders could once again turn to a popular program to meet it. Lawmakers last week heard testimony from affordable utilities advocates and state energy and public health officials, opening with an acknowledgement of the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat dome incident which left more than 100 Oregonians dead. The meeting came the same day that Gov. Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency over wildfires as heat and drought in the state are expected to worsen over the summer. State Rep. Pam Marsh, a Democrat from Ashland and chair of the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness, told her colleagues that many more people likely died during the heat dome due to chronic and underlying medical conditions. She said she plans to convene a workgroup on the issue of providing cooling systems in housing. “We are looking at a summer that’s likely to be very hot,” Marsh said. “And as we look at the housing needs across the state, making sure that the housing people have is comfortable, healthy and supports them in these pretty exceptional conditions, I think is part of our mission.” The 2021 heat dome spurred action in Salem the next year, when state lawmakers allocated nearly $25 million to encourage owners and landlords to install heat pumps through incentives such as thousands of dollars in rebates. State lawmakers provided another $4 million for the Rental Home Heat Pump Program in 2024, but state officials have since paused such incentives for most Oregonians due to a lack of additional funding. Research has shown that heat pumps use less energy than traditional air conditioning systems by removing heat from the inside of a building and operating like regular air conditioners when in cooling mode. The 2022 law also prohibited landlords from banning portable air conditioners. On Tuesday, state energy department officials referred to a September 2025 Biennial Oregon Heat Pump Report estimating that 25% of air conditioning equipment in Oregon would be heat pumps as of December 2025. That marks a 7% increase in the technology’s use throughout the state since 2023. The next official report is expected in 2027 and likely to come after the upcoming legislative session. They contrasted that figure with a 2023 survey of Oregonians commissioned by the Oregon Department of Energy, which found that 58% of respondents lacked a permanent cooling system. The cost to fix that problem was estimated to range from around $500 million to more than $1 billion, far above what lawmakers have allocated in Salem over the past few years. No new study has been conducted to see if progress has been made on that figure, according to the agency. “The warmer climate in Southern Oregon has driven more consistent air conditioning installations in housing constructed,” Stephanie Kruse, a facilities engineer at the Oregon Department of Energy, told lawmakers. “But as more of our state is experiencing more frequent and sustained heat events, the need for cooling equipment has become more urgent.” Oregon has set a goal of installing 500,000 heat pumps by 2030. The state’s two heat pump incentive programs have resulted in the installation of 4,638 heat pumps and counting in Oregon, according to Christy Splitt, government relations coordinator for the Oregon Department of Energy. She said the agency plans to temporarily open the rental heat pump program “towards the end” of the two-year budget cycle ending in 2027, using remaining funds such as available administrative savings. “I’m hoping for 5,000,” Splitt told lawmakers. “That’ll be a nice number.” Census data places Oregon at nationwide bottom Data from the U.S. Census Bureau released in May, meanwhile, places Oregon as one of the worst states in the nation when it comes to access to air conditioning, though states such as California, Wyoming, Washington and Montana all had lower rates of reported access. In Oregon, more than 18% of the state’s households are estimated to not have any access to a form of air conditioning. The federal data relies upon estimates from 2023, but it shows that the state’s coast and Northeast areas have significantly low rates of access to air conditioning, some with less than half of households in the county. That’s often because the coastal areas of the state can rely on the ocean breeze instead of paying for cooling systems. (function(){function e(){window.addEventListener(`message`,function(e){if(e.data[`datawrapper-height`]!==void 0){var t=document.querySelectorAll(`iframe`);for(var n in e.data[`datawrapper-height`])for(var r=0,i;i=t[r];r++)if(i.contentWindow===e.source){var a=e.data[`datawrapper-height`][n]+`px`;i.style.height=a}}})}e()})(); Jennifer Kalez, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Energy, distanced the federal data from the state’s own 2023 study. “The Cooling Needs Study looked specifically at low-income and at-risk households in the state and differentiated between permanent cooling equipment, and broken and temporary equipment, while the (federal) data is statewide or county wide, and did not differentiate between types of cooling equipment,” she wrote in an email. It’s up to lawmakers to decide whether to fund more of the program. In the meantime, there are also federally-funded programs for rental homes, new construction and homeowners that the state administers, such as the Heat Pump Purchase Program, which provides $2,000 for installations of heat pumps to state-approved contractors. Brian Stewart, co-founder of Electrify Now, a volunteer-run advocacy group that promotes building electrification, said Oregon has in the past enjoyed cooler summers, which explains the federal data showing rates of air conditioning lower than other parts of the nation. With hotter Oregon summers, he said that’s changing and people are “getting the news that a heat pump is better.” Stewart said Oregon lawmakers could also provide incentives to convert low quality air conditioners to heat pumps, particularly in light of the low-income families reliant upon Portland General Electric who have reported that high rates of energy use correspond with bills that cost nearly $300 more. These homes could require deeper technical fixes and repairs, he said, and the price of installing a heat pump can vary thousands of dollars depending on the size of the home and type of the system, such as a solar or geothermal-powered heat pump. “This is why incentives are so important. They reduce these kinds of barriers that people see when they’re trying to make decisions about what to do in their homes and enable them to get products that are going to be better for them in the long term,” he said. “It’s really hard to overcome ‘Wow, it’s thousands of dollars more up front, right?’ And if someone is telling you, well, you’re going to save a bunch of money in the long-term, that’s a hard argument when you’re strapped to just make the initial payment.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Oregon Capital Chronicle

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

Monday, June 22nd, 2026