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

Friday, February 27th, 2026
	Red Flag Warning from FRI 12:00 PM CST until FRI 6:00 PM CST Critical Fire Weather Conditions This Afternoon
	This community festival embraces the joys of a frozen lake — while it still has one As climate change accelerates, local experts say the date Wisconsin's Lake Mendota freezes over is getting later, making safe conditions for activities that rely on snow and ice harder to predict.
	GM accused of selling Iowa consumer data without consent, lawsuit claims DES MOINES, Iowa -- Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird announced a lawsuit against General Motors, LLC. on Thursday for allegedly unlawfully selling Iowans' information. In the lawsuit filed in the Polk County District Court, AG Bird says General Motors (GM) used OnStar, LLC., and other telematic systems to collect and later sell data from Iowans [...]
	Lawmakers say US military used laser to take down Border Protection drone The U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection drone, members of Congress said Thursday, and the Federal Aviation Administration responded by closing more airspace near El Paso, Texas.
	US military used laser to take down Border Protection drone, lawmakers say The U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection drone, members of Congress said Thursday, and the Federal Aviation Administration responded by closing more airspace near El Paso, Texas.
Thursday, February 26th, 2026
	Why the First Year Behind the Wheel is the Most Dangerous: Data Shows Teen Drivers 3 Times More Likely to be in Fatal Crash (Feature Impact) The driver's license photo may be slightly awkward, but the milestone is unforgettable. For families, a newly licensed teen means independence, busy schedules and a new set of responsibilities. Motor vehicle crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for U.S. teens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows drivers ages 16-19 are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers 20 and older, per mile driven. The statistics are serious, but they're also manageable. "With the right preparation, teen driving doesn't have to feel overwhelming," said Susan Irace, manager, divisional claims at Mercury Insurance. "Experience is what young drivers are building. Parents can help shorten that learning curve with structure, technology and smart coverage decisions." Why the First Year Matters Federal safety data shows crash risk is highest in a teen's first year of independent driving. Night driving, teen passengers and distracted driving increase that risk - while seat belts, graduated licensing laws and supervised practice significantly reduce it. In 2023, more than 2,800 teens ages 13-19 were killed in motor vehicle crashes nationwide, according to the CDC. However, teen crash rates have declined over time thanks to safer vehicles, graduated driver licensing programs and greater awareness of distracted driving. Ways to Reduce Teen Driving Risk The experts at Mercury Insurance encourage families to focus on preparation rather than panic. 1. Coach Early and Often Log supervised driving time in different conditions - highways, rain, nighttime Create a simple written driving agreement outlining expectations Limit teen passengers during the first year Make seatbelts non-negotiable 2. Let Technology Help Choose vehicles with safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring Use telematics or safe-driving feedback tools to reinforce good habits Activate smartphone "Do Not Disturb While Driving" settings 3. Review Insurance Before the Keys Change Hands Add teens to your insurance policy promptly Revisit liability limits to protect family assets Ask about good student and driver training discounts "Insurance is about preparation, not fear," Irace said. "When families combine active coaching with the right coverage, they're setting their teen up for safer miles ahead." Preparation Turns Risks into Confidence The first solo drive is a milestone, but preparation determines what comes next. By pairing common-sense coaching with today's vehicle safety technology and thoughtful insurance planning, families can support independence while managing risk responsibly. For more teen driver safety tips and coverage guidance, visit MercuryInsurance.com/resources. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
	Six firefighter positions included in Clinton budget, for now The Clinton City Council approved a resolution for its general budget at a special meeting Thursday afternoon at City Hall.
	Construction brings short-term challenges, long-term hopes for downtown East Moline Construction on 15th Avenue in East Moline is slowing business access for now, but owners say city investment could bring more visitors downtown in the future.
	Apartment fire in Muscatine causes $80,000 in damages Muscatine fire officials said no one was injured in the fire.
	Gov. Reynolds signs 2% school funding increase \| What that means for Iowa schools Iowa's K-12 schools will receive approximately an additional $160 per student during the 2026-27 school year, though the increase isn't quite on par with inflation.
	Davenport police: Child dies after school bus crash The Davenport Police Department said an 11-year-old "slipped and fell" under a school bus Thursday morning. The child later died from their injuries.
	East Moline Mayor to deliver state of the city address RSVPs are requested by March 20 and it costs $25 per person to attend.
	Firefighters remain in Clinton budget plan A reversal came from Clinton city leaders about cutting firefighters from the department. Mayor Scott Maddasion says a plan brought up last month to get rid of six firefighters won't happen. Clinton's finance department figured out a way to keep them in the next budget. The city had to find a way to pay for [...]
	Spring is here early: Baby chicks arrive in Davenport While it may not actually be spring yet, 230 chicks arrived at Blain's Farm and Fleet in Davenport this morning, and a few of their experts explained how to take care of them. "Spring is here when the chicks come in," says Jennifer Coss, Head of Pet and Agriculture at Blain's Farm and Fleet. As [...]
	Mortgage rates fall below 6 percent for first time in over 3 years Mortgage rates fell below 6 percent on Thursday for the first time in over three years, marking an opening for home buyers as inflation cools.
	Deadline looms as Anthropic rejects Pentagon demands it remove AI safeguards The Defense Department has been feuding with Anthropic over military uses of its artificial intelligence tools. At stake are hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts and access to some of the most advanced AI on the planet.
	Airstrikes hit Afghan capital of Kabul, hours after Afghanistan attacks Pakistan Pakistan carried out airstrikes hours after Afghanistan launched a cross-border attack in the latest escalation of violence between the neighboring countries. The clashes are making a Qatar-mediated ceasefire appear increasingly shaky.
	Pakistan's defense minister says that there is now 'open war' with Afghanistan after latest strikes Pakistan's defense minister said that his country ran out of "patience" and considers that there is now an "open war" with Afghanistan, after both countries launched strikes following an Afghan cross-border attack.
	Grain bin entrapments on the rise, experts say accidents are almost entirely preventable One person died in a grain bin accident in Granville, Illinois, last month. Now, new data suggests these types of accidents are on the rise — and experts say 95% of them are preventable.
	Hillary Clinton calls House Oversight questioning 'repetitive' in 6 hour deposition In more than seven hours behind closed doors, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton answered questions from the House Oversight Committee as it investigates Jeffrey Epstein.
	Milan restaurant gives back by paying off local water bills After better-than-expected sales in early February, Finn's Grill and Bar decided to go to city hall and use the extra cash to pay for some people's utility bills.
	Iowa senate vote not taken on animal torture bill despite being scheduled DES MOINES, Iowa — The Senate adjourned until Monday without voting on the animal torture bill despite it being scheduled for a vote on Thursday. The bill received bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, advancing out of subcommittee and committee unanimously in both chambers. As a result, there has not been public opposition [...]
	Family pet rescued from Muscatine structure fire A family pet was rescued Thursday from a structure fire in Muscatine, according to a news release. Shortly after 11 a.m., the Muscatine Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) received a 911 call reporting flames and black smoke at a multi-family residential building on the 2400 block of Park Avenue. Crews saw smoke coming from a second-floor [...]
	Rapids City voters to decide police protection tax levy in March 17 primary election Rapids City voters will decide March 17 whether to approve a levy to help fund contracted sheriff coverage.
	Journalist Steve Hartman talks about his Oscar-nominated 'All the Empty Rooms' CBS News correspondent Steve Hartman talks with Our Quad Cities News about his movie "All the Empty Rooms," a 2025 documentary that has been nominated for an Academy Award. Hartman teamed with photographer Lou Bopp for the 33-minute film that documents the unchanged bedrooms of children who were killed n U. S. school shootings. To [...]
	Muscatine firefighters respond to blaze at Sycamore Estates apartment complex The fire caused an estimated $80,000 in damage Thursday morning.
	The Heart of the Story: Down for demolition derby Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. Tradition is the name of the game as [...]
	Rock Island's Hilltop could ramp up development Rock Island's 'Hilltop' neighborhood has seen businesses come and go over the years. Now, one lot sits empty after years of use. A mix of gravel and concrete lay where many businesses once operated on the corner of 14th Avenue and 30th Street. The new partnership between Augustana and the city of Rock Island will [...]
	Drought worsens around parts of QCA The weekly drought update shows worsening conditions around parts of the Quad Cities. The update comes out every Thursday and ALL of our area is under some form of a drought. This is due in large part to the fact that we have had below normal precip. every single month since July! And, February is [...]
	Man charged in mother’s stabbing death will stay behind bars If convicted, he faces 20 years to life in prison.
	Apartment fire in Muscatine causes $80,000 in damages Muscatine fire officials said no one was injured in the fire.
	Chicagoans pay respects to Jesse Jackson as cross-country memorial services begin Memorial services for the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. to honor his long civil rights legacy begin in Chicago. Events will also take place in Washington, D.C., and South Carolina, where he was born and began his activism.
	11-year-old dies after falling under bus, Davenport police say Officials said at 7:17 a.m. a bus was driving west in the 1100 block of East 37th Street when a juvenile slipped and fell under the bus.
	Respiratory illness cases increase across Quad Cities Cold and flu cases are on the rise across the Quad Cities, but medical providers say the seasonal uptick is typical during the winter months.
	Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds defends use of state-funded plane for travel Gov. Kim Reynolds is responding to criticism over her use of state-funded planes for travel, saying she does not regret using the aircraft for official business.
	Muscatine Fire Department battles fire at apartment complex unit The Muscatine Fire Department responded to a fire at an apartment complex Thursday morning. No injures were reported.
	Iowa high school receives grant to fund career and technical education programs Adel DeSoto Minburn High School is one of 15 schools nationwide to receive a $25,000 grant from Carhatt's "For the Love of Labor" program.
	Old Dominion to headline Concerts on the Course at 2026 John Deere Classic Old Dominion will perform July 5 after play ends at TPC Deere Run in Silvis during the 2026 John Deere Classic.
	Finn's Grill and Bar helps pay utility bills for Milan residents Owner Joe Ende joined The Current on News 8 to discuss why he chose to pay those bills, how many people were helped and what the reaction has been like.
	Rock Island police ask for public’s help to identify person they say crashed stolen car Police said the person was driving a stolen 2012 Chevrolet Traverse and crashed into a parked car on Jan. 16 in the 4500 block of 9th Avenue.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted in Scott County for probation violation Joe Rush, 31, is wanted in Scott County for a probation violation on a prior drug conviction and habitual offender.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted in Scott County for escape, probation violation Gage Gardner, 28, is wanted in Scott County for escape and a probation violation on a prior drug conviction.
	Police: Child dies after school bus crash in Davenport The Davenport Police Department said an 11-year-old "slipped and fell" under a school bus Thursday morning. The child later died from their injuries.
	In reversal, Warner Bros. jilts Netflix for Paramount Warner Bros. says Paramount's sweetened bid to buy the whole company is "superior" to an $83 billion deal it struck with Netflix for just its streaming services, studios, and intellectual property.
	‘Live from QC’ gala to support local cancer patients You can enjoy an evening of laughter, music, food, auctions and more all while supporting CSC Gilda's Club free local cancer services. Here's how to get tickets.
	YWCA Quad Cities hosts youth career fair A free event is providing youth in the QCA with the opportunity to explore a wide range of career paths and summer employment opportunities. The free event is open to all youth throughout the Quad Cities community. Jenna Panicucci joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the YWCA Quad Cities Youth Career Fair. For [...]
	Lawmakers take step to incentivize Bears to stay in Illinois An Illinois House committee voted to advance a major economic development bill on Thursday that could ultimately help convince the Chicago Bears to stay in Illinois rather than bolting for Indiana.
	Burlington fire crews respond to fire at illegal rental property The property was insured, officials said.
	Gov. Kim Reynolds signs 2% per-pupil funding package for K-12 schools into law Gov. Kim Reynolds signed into law Thursday the bill establishing a 2% State Supplemental Aid rate, providing per-pupil funding for Iowa’s K-12 schools in the upcoming school year.
	Trump's ballroom project can continue for now, court says A US District Judge denied a preservation group's effort to put a pause on construction
	11-year-old dies after slipping and falling under bus Officials said at 7:17 a.m. a bus was driving west in the 1100 block of East 37th Street when a juvenile slipped and fell under the bus.
	‘Live from QC’ gala to support local cancer patients You can enjoy an evening of laughter, music, food, auctions and more all while supporting CSC Gilda's Club free local cancer services. Here's how to get tickets.
	'Heated Rivalry' turns people on to their local hockey league Tiara Phillips wanted to fill seats for her local hockey team, so she rallied together with a group that had discovered a newfound interest in the sport.
	Lee County, Illinois stolen vehicle chase ends in vehicle being found crashed, search underway for suspect Law enforcement agencies are searching for a person they say led them on a stolen vehicle chase.
	What are specialty clinics? Derek Fortin, Specialty Clinic Manager, explains how that can help improve patient care.
	Suspect at large after crashing stolen vehicle in Dixon, sheriff's office says When officials got to the crash scene, the driver was not inside and is believed to have fled on foot.
	Rock Island Resident striving for stronger community engagement and understanding Resident Annika O’Melia is using her background in therapy to delve deeper into community members seeking to make Rock Island a better place for all and to highlight city operations to maintain transparency among city leaders and residents.
	New Mixed Reality Experience Puts Students at the Center of Army National Guard Disaster Relief Efforts (BPT) - Key TakeawaysThe U.S. Army National Guard is bringing Disasterville — a new mixed-reality experience — to high school students nationwide, using hands-on simulations to demonstrate how National Guard Soldiers respond to disasters and emergencies.Disasterville immerses students within full-scale, mission-oriented disaster zones, including wildfires, floods and earthquakes, to team up and tackle each disaster the same way as the National Guard.Disasterville also introduces students to the different types of careers and missions in the National Guard — a unique component within the U.S. Army where Soldiers have the flexibility to serve their country part-time while pursuing their civilian careers.Americans are no strangers to the far-reaching impacts of natural disasters on communities, but what many do not know is what it takes to prepare and respond. That will change this spring, when the U.S. Army National Guard brings Disasterville — a new, mixed reality experience — to high school students across the country, placing them at the center of the most common disaster relief missions.The National Guard remains a critical lifeline in communities across the country. When needed, National Guard Soldiers respond to domestic emergencies in their home state with capabilities across medical, aviation, transportation and more.Disasterville, a new mixed-reality experience from the Army National Guard, transforms high school gyms into full-scale, mission-oriented disaster zones where the structures around them become devastated buildings, debris, rough terrain and hazards."Young Americans are increasingly seeking ways to make an impact close to home, but many are unaware of the wide-ranging skills of National Guard Soldiers and their critical role in disaster response," says Staff Sgt. Adam Szabo, State Media Services Program & Marketing NCO with the National Guard Bureau's Marketing and Advertising Branch. "Disasterville shows the possibilities of part-time service by immersing students directly into the complex, high-stakes missions of the National Guard, and showing them what it means to serve the community."Read on to learn more about Disasterville and its mission to inspire the next generation of National Guard Soldiers.Disasterville allows students to experience the high-stakes missions of National Guard Soldiers Using advanced mixed-reality technology, Disasterville transforms high school gymnasiums into three, full-scale disaster zones that represent the most common natural disasters National Guard Soldiers respond to as part of their service, including wildfires, flood zones and earthquakes.Students will work in teams against the clock as they become National Guard Soldiers called to serve at the following sites:Wildfire: Amid a raging wildfire, teams work together to push back fires encroaching on a home in Disaster Canyon. Students will put out small wildfires, combine forces to push back larger flare-ups, save animals and dodge falling trees.Flood Zone: After a major hurricane, civilians are fighting to stay above water on the streets they call home. Students will board their Zodiac and use headlamps to find and safely evacuate survivors while avoiding dangerous wildlife and other lurking hazards.Earthquake: After a devastating earthquake, a train carrying hazardous chemicals and passengers derails, pinning civilians and spilling dangerous material, poisoning the air. Time ticks down as students arm themselves with the jaws of life to rescue survivors and clean up debris all before the train gives way under its own weight.Disasterville doesn't just teach students about the mission of the National Guard, it puts them in the driver's seat as they work together to tackle each disaster the same way as the Guard, by combining communication, physical endurance and ingenuity to save lives, landscape and their communities.Disasterville is brought to life using mixed-reality technologyDisasterville was developed with the help of extended reality (XR) industry expert Dale Carman. At first glance, the experience might look like a maze of plywood structures scattered throughout the gymnasium, but students are quickly placed in the center of the action once they don their Meta Quest 3 headsets and begin the simulation.Students wear virtual reality headsets and team up with classmates to tackle full-scale, mission-oriented disaster zones, including wildfires, floods and earthquakes, the same way as the Guard, by combining communication, physical endurance and ingenuity to save lives, landscape and their communities.Disasterville uses advanced mixed-reality technology with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) graphics mapped to the structures, creating a free-roam experience and transforming the gym into neighborhoods with devastated buildings, debris, rough terrain, hazards and people in need.Students can also leave their game controllers behind, because Disasterville uses hand-tracking technology that allows students to physically handle in-game props and National Guard rescue tools — like oars, hoses, chainsaws and the jaws of life — and interact with each other and people in need.The National Guard's impact across the countryThe National Guard is a unique component within the U.S. Army, with a presence in 54 states and territories. Serving in a part-time role, National Guard Soldiers support communities in their home state by responding to domestic emergencies and at the federal level as standby support for Active Duty Soldiers.Disasterville lets students work together in teams of five to complete missions that draw on the communication, physical endurance and decision-making skills of trained Soldiers.National Guard Soldiers have capabilities across medical, aviation, law enforcement and transportation, allowing them to have a direct impact on their own communities in the most critical times of need. By serving at least one weekend a month and two weeks a year, they also enjoy the flexibility to pursue their civilian personal and professional passions."As National Guard Soldiers, our strength lies not just in our wide range of capabilities, but also our ability to act as a bridge between our communities and the country," says Lt. Col. Ted Dunham, Chief of the U.S. Army National Guard Marketing Branch. "When disaster strikes, we stand ready to protect the people we know and the places we live."Disasterville takes its immersive experience on the roadThroughout the year, Disasterville will tour select cities across the country, including Washington, D.C., Detroit, Indianapolis and Omaha, to bring the experience to high school students who are considering their next chapter.Interested schools can reach out to their local National Guard representatives for more information on how to bring the Disasterville experience to their city.For more information on Disasterville and the opportunities available in the National Guard, visit NationalGuard.com.
	‘We hear you’: DeWitt police address speeding concerns The DeWitt Police Department is addressing community concerns about excessive speeding.
	NASA lost a lunar spacecraft one day after launch. A new report details what went wrong Why did a $72 million mission to study water on the moon fail so soon after launch? A new NASA report has the answer.
	It’s never too late to learn a language – adults and kids bring different strengths to the task There’s a common assumption that if someone starts learning a language when they are very young, they will quickly become fluent. Many people also assume that it will become much harder to learn a language if they start later in life. Research into language learning shows that how old someone is when they learn a language does matter, but there is no point at which the ability to learn a language switches off. While a young language learner can more easily acquire a native accent, adults retain the ability to learn new languages well into later life. Anyone can continue to learn and refine their vocabulary and grammar. Other factors, like motivation, can also play a role for learners of all ages. I am a linguist and the author of a forthcoming book, “Beyond Words: How We Learn, Use, and Lose Language,” which looks at how language is learned, used and lost across a lifespan — and why age alone does not set hard limits on our linguistic abilities. Instead, the strategies learners use, the outcomes they achieve most easily, and how others judge their progress can all change over time. How age shapes language learning Someone’s age can influence their language learning ability in a variety of ways. Scientists sometimes talk about sensitive periods, or an early development window in which the brain is especially receptive to certain kinds of input. When it comes to language, babies and children are particularly sensitive to the sound patterns of speech. They can also pick up on subtle phonetic distinctions that adults struggle to perceive or reproduce. This helps explain why children who grow up bilingual often sound native in both languages. Accents, more than vocabulary or grammar, are where age-related differences are most pronounced. Sensitive periods are found in other animals, too, especially birds, which have an early sensitive period for learning their species-specific song from an adult tutor. After this window closes, learning a new language is still very much possible. But it usually takes more conscious effort and practice. Studies also show that children exposed to a second language early, roughly before puberty, are more likely to develop nativelike pronunciation and intonation. Brain imaging research shows that people who learn two languages early in life tend to process both languages in the same parts of the brain. Those who learn a second language later often use slightly different brain areas for each language. In practical terms, early bilinguals are more likely to switch between languages effortlessly. Later learners may have to more consciously work through their second language, especially at first. Second grade students do classwork during a Spanish-only, dual immersion class in University Hill Elementary School in Boulder, Colo., in 2022. Glenn Asakawa/The Denver Post via Getty Images via The Conversation Benefits to learning a language as an adult Pronunciation is only one part of language proficiency. Adults bring their own strengths to the task. Unlike young children, adult learners already have a fully developed first language. They also have skills in reasoning and pattern recognition, as well as an awareness of how language works. This allows adults to learn in a more deliberate way, as they study grammar rules and consciously compare languages. Adults are also more likely to rely on deliberate strategies, such as memorization, to learn a language. In classroom settings, adults often outperform children in early stages of learning, particularly in reading and writing. Language learning never truly stops. Even in adulthood, people continue to develop and refine their first language, shaped by their education, work and social environment, and how they use it day to day. While it may be harder for adults to acquire a nativelike accent later in life, the good news is that grammar, vocabulary and fluency remain well within reach for most adult learners. Benefits of learning a language as a kid Children, meanwhile, tend to learn languages implicitly, through immersion and interaction, often without conscious attention to rules. Social and emotional factors also play a major role in successfully learning a language. Children are generally less self-conscious than adults and more willing to take risks when speaking. Adults, by contrast, are often acutely aware of mistakes and may hesitate to speak for fear of sounding foolish or being judged. Research consistently shows that being willing to communicate is a strong predictor of success in learning a new language. Anxiety, inhibition and negative feedback from others can significantly slow progress, regardless of age. Accent, bias and social pressure Other factors, like social pressure and discrimination, matter as someone tries to learn a new language. Research into language and identity shows that listeners frequently associate accented speech with lower intelligence or competence, despite there being no connection between accent and cognitive ability. Non-native speakers often experience stigmatization, discrimination and prejudice from native speakers. This bias can discourage adult learners and reinforce the false belief that successful language learning means sounding native. Motivation and aptitude matter, too Motivation is another key factor that affects learners of all ages. People learn new languages for many reasons: a new country, work, school, relationships or interest in another culture. Research distinguishes between the different reasons people learn a language. Some are practical, like advancing a career or passing a test. Others are personal, such as wanting to connect with a community, culture or family. Learners who feel a strong personal or emotional connection to the language are more likely to keep going even when it gets difficult, and they often reach higher levels of fluency than those without this connection. Other people have a natural aptitude for learning a language and can pick it up easily. Perhaps they quickly notice sound patterns, or they can remember new vocabulary after hearing it once or twice. Language aptitude is different from intelligence and varies from person to person. Aptitude makes success in learning a language more likely, but it doesn’t guarantee it. Learners with average aptitude can still become very proficient in new languages as adults if they have consistent exposure, practice and motivation. Different ages, different strengths So is it better to learn a second language as a child or as an adult? Research suggests the more useful question is which aspects of language learning, such as pronunciation, fluency or long-term mastery, matter most. Learning a new language early makes it easier to sound like a native speaker and to use the language smoothly, without having to think about the rules. Learning that language later in life draws on adult strengths, such as planning, problem-solving and focused practice. Ultimately, some people pick up languages quickly while others struggle, regardless of how old they are. Beliefs about language learning shape education policy, parenting choices and how multilingual speakers are treated in everyday life. When adults are told they’ve missed their chance to learn a language, many never bother to try. When foreign accents are treated as flaws, capable speakers can be unfairly discriminated against. In fact, research shows that learning a language is possible at any age – it’s a lifelong, achievable journey, rather than a race against the clock. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Karen Stollznow, Griffith University; University of Colorado Boulder Read more: 7 reasons to learn a foreign language Learning a new language? Your mindset matters more than ‘having a knack’ Learning a language? Four ways to smash through the dreaded ‘intermediate plateau’ Karen Stollznow does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Why 94.8% of homepages still have serious accessibility issues Why 94.8% of homepages still have serious accessibility issuesSpring is approaching, which means it's already time to start thinking about what to plant this year. Will the tomatoes do better in a different spot? Is it finally time to try growing peppers? When sketching out a garden plan, a realization hits: accessibility is a lot like gardening.A thriving garden needs both the right tools and skilled cultivation. You can install the best irrigation system money can buy, but without someone to prune, fertilize, and watch for pests, your garden won't flourish. On the flip side, even the most dedicated gardener can't manually water hundreds of plants efficiently without help.Yet when it comes to digital accessibility (ensuring people with disabilities can access and use web content), most organizations are trying to solve the problem with one or the other. They either deploy an automated tool and hope for the best, or they commission expensive manual audits that are outdated the moment the website changes.Neither approach is working. And the data proves it.The Stagnation ProblemAccording to WebAIM's annual accessibility analysis, the percentage of home pages with detectable accessibility failures has barely budged over the past five to seven years. In its 2025 analysis, 94.8% of home pages had detectable WCAG failures — down just 3 percentage points from 97.8% in 2019. Despite increased awareness, mounting legal pressure, and billions spent on accessibility solutions, the web isn't getting meaningfully more accessible.According to AudioEye's Digital Accessibility Index, the average web page still contains 297 accessibility issues. That's not a typo: 297 issues per page.Why hasn't the needle moved? Because we're facing a scale problem that current approaches weren't designed to solve. When most accessibility testing and remediation approaches were developed a decade ago, the internet was a fundamentally different place. Websites were simpler, updated less frequently, and digital ecosystems were more contained. Today's web is exponentially larger, changes constantly, and sprawls across platforms in ways that traditional accessibility approaches simply can't keep pace with.Why Scale Makes Everything HarderThree compounding challenges are making accessibility harder to manage than ever before:First, the internet is growing exponentially. New pages, features, and platforms launch daily. Digital ecosystems sprawl across main websites, microsites, mobile apps, and third-party integrations. By the time you finish auditing one corner of your digital presence, three new ones have appeared.Second, websites never stop changing. Code updates, content refreshes, CMS migrations. Like a growing garden, your site is a living thing. What's compliant today can break with tomorrow's product launch. Traditional point-in-time audits are snapshots that expire the moment your site evolves.Third, resources remain constrained. Development teams are overloaded. Budgets are tight. Accessibility expertise is scarce. And accessibility is competing with dozens of other priorities for attention.So, how do organizations solve accessibility at this scale? Most choose one of two paths.The Two Paths (and Their Limitations)Path 1: TechnologyThe promise of automated accessibility tools is appealing, and for good reason. The best platforms can scan at scale, automatically detect common issues, apply fixes in real time, and continuously monitor as your site evolves. For organizations managing hundreds or thousands of pages, automation isn't just convenient; it's essential.The reality is more complicated.Not all automated tools are created equal. Recent research has found dramatic differences in detection capabilities across leading accessibility tools, with some unable to detect even half of what the most comprehensive tools identified.But there's a subset of automated tools that deserve special scrutiny: overlay toolbars and widgets. These products sometimes promise full compliance. In practice, they tend to detect the fewest issues of any automated solution while making the boldest claims, a combination that has drawn criticism from disability advocates and legal experts alike. For organizations relying on them, the risk isn't just that issues go undetected. It's that they have a false sense of compliance.Path 2: Consulting and Manual AuditsManual audits, conducted by certified professionals who test with assistive technology, understand real user experience, and identify the high-risk barriers that actually get companies sued. And the best experts don't just hand you a list of fixes. They help organizations address issues at the source, building workflows and sustainable processes so that improvements carry forward dynamically rather than requiring constant rework.But even this approach has a ceiling.The challenge isn't quality. Its capacity. There simply aren't enough qualified accessibility professionals, in-house or contractual, to keep pace with the scale of today's digital landscape. Manual audits are slow and expensive by nature, and even when experts help build scalable solutions at the source, those processes still require ongoing human oversight that most organizations can't sustain. Implementation requires significant developer time, creating bottlenecks that stall accessibility programs the moment dev teams get pulled in other directions.Most importantly, expert-led programs can't keep pace with the speed of digital business on their own. You can't re-audit your entire site every time you update content, launch a campaign, or roll out a new feature.The problem: Most organizations pick one path or the other and wonder why they're still exposed to legal risk.The Hybrid Model: Cultivating Accessibility at ScaleJust as the most productive gardens combine efficient irrigation systems with skilled gardeners who understand what each plant needs, digital accessibility requires the same balanced approach. You need technology to handle the scale and human expertise to address the complexity.A hybrid model combines automated technology for breadth with expert human review for depth:Automation handles volume. Continuous automated scanning across all pages detects issues in real time, fixes common barriers instantly, and monitors your site as it changes. This prevents regressions and often catches problems before they become lawsuits. Automation gives you the scale to protect hundreds or thousands of pages simultaneously.Expert review handles complexity. Certified accessibility professionals, including people with disabilities, focus on the barriers that automation can't reliably detect: the nuanced, high-risk issues that cause lawsuits. They test with real assistive technology, validate that automated fixes are working correctly, and create custom solutions for complex user flows like checkout processes or multistep forms.What makes this model work over time is that it doesn't treat accessibility as a project with a finish line. Because automation runs continuously and expert review adapts alongside it, the system evolves as your site does. New issues get caught and prioritized before they become exposed. Protection doesn't expire the moment your site changes.This isn't theoretical. The regulatory landscape is making this approach essential. With ADA Title II regulations expanding to state and local government websites in April 2026 and the European Accessibility Act already in effect, the global implications are clear: the "wait-and-see" approach is over.What This Means for LeadersChoosing the right accessibility solution is only part of the equation. How your organization builds and maintains that capability over time is what determines whether it holds up. When evaluating accessibility solutions, leaders should ask:What percentage of issues can your automation actually detect and fix?How do you validate your detection accuracy?What happens when my site changes tomorrow?Who shows up when I get a demand letter?The answers reveal whether a vendor is selling tools, services, or an actual solution that scales.The best gardeners aren't just people who own good tools. They're people with green thumbs: an intuitive, practiced understanding of what a healthy garden needs at every stage of growth. Digital accessibility works the same way. The organizations that build lasting programs are the ones that pair the right technology with genuine human expertise, not just as a service they buy once, but as a capability they develop over time.As you plan for spring, whether that's your garden or your accessibility roadmap, the lesson is the same: Sustainable growth requires combining the efficiency of the right technology with the insight that only human expertise can provide. Neither works well in isolation, but together, and embedded into how your organization builds and ships, they create something that can truly thrive at scale.This story was produced by AudioEye and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The big reveal: Unveiling the extent of your wealth to your heirs The big reveal: Unveiling the extent of your wealth to your heirsImagine for a moment that wealth is like magic. As parents, you are the magicians, holding the secrets to a grand illusion that has the power to awe and inspire. But like any great magic trick, there comes a time when the illusion must be revealed, and the audience—your children—must understand the reality behind the magic. This revelation is not just about lifting the curtain; it’s about preparing them for the responsibilities and opportunities that come with the knowledge of their inheritance.Many ultrahigh-net-worth (UHNW) families grapple with the question of when and how to disclose the magnitude of their wealth to their heirs. The fear is palpable: Will this knowledge demotivate them? Will it alter their life trajectory? Will it affect their relationships with siblings and peers? These are valid concerns, and they deserve thoughtful consideration as you think through how to plan for an inheritance. Bernstein Private Wealth Management explains why early discussion is valuable and how education comes into play.Key TakeawaysBy planting seeds early on, engaging in values-based conversations, and providing hands-on learning experiences, you can prepare your children for the responsibilities that come with their inheritance.The final reveal should not be a shocking moment but a natural progression of their education and understanding.Remember, the magic lies not just in the wealth itself but in the values and lessons you impart along the way.A Lesson in Gradual RevelationLet’s go back to the magic analogy. Think about a child who believes in magic. The wonder in their eyes, the excitement in their voice. But as they grow older, they start to understand that magic is not real. This realization can be jarring if it happens all at once.Similarly, revealing the extent of your wealth to your children should not be a sudden, dramatic event. It should be a gradual process, akin to planting seeds. These seeds are conversations about values, hard work, and the meaning of money. They are the small, everyday lessons that prepare your children for the big reveal.The Importance of Early ConversationsIn Bernstein Private Wealth Management’s 2024 research initiative, Wealth Beyond Measure, the firm conducted deep, one-on-one interviews with 40 UHNW Bernstein families from every major U.S. region as well as families living abroad.One family had significant concerns about how their wealth might impact their children’s ambition and career aspirations. They had trusts in place and were facing age-based distributions, but conversations about the wealth had been minimal. They feared that revealing the magnitude of their wealth might lead their children to make frivolous decisions.To address this, the family engaged in a formal values exercise. They started by understanding their own values and then had their children do the same. This exercise created a safe space for open dialogue, allowing them to express their hopes and fears regarding wealth. By prioritizing values, they were able to frame the conversation in a supportive yet direct manner.Empowering Through EducationAt some point, your heirs will need to come to grips with the magnitude of the family’s assets. Waiting until they gain control is probably too late. Ideally, they should learn to navigate wealth decisions earlier on. This doesn’t mean handing them a ledger with all the family’s assets listed out. It means educating them about financial basics, family history, and the responsibilities that come with wealth. Hands-on learning can be as beneficial as verbal communication. Share your struggles and the obstacles you’ve overcome. This not only humanizes the wealth but also provides valuable lessons that can guide them in their own journey.As you think through how best to convey these messages, consider questions like:What have been the most important successes of your life? What have been the biggest struggles? What did you learn in each?What have been the most influential experiences in your life and why?How do you define a “good life” or “successful life”?Families with differing opinions on when and how much wealth to reveal can benefit from family meetings or educational programs. These meetings can equip younger generations with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. It’s important to agree on what information everyone is comfortable sharing and then consider holding family meetings specific to each branch to educate and communicate beyond the baseline.Balancing Transparency and GuidanceMost families in Bernstein’s research acknowledged how important preparing rising generations is to the family’s future success. More than half stressed the need for open communication, while admitting they feel confused and somewhat anxious over the “right way” to do it.This uncertainty helps explain why some families believe that not disclosing the wealth is the responsible move, thinking it will keep their children on their life trajectory. However, the day of recognition will come, and if they are unprepared, it can be overwhelming. The goal is to make the final reveal a culmination of a long process of education and preparation. This empowers your heirs to make good decisions and feel confident in their stewardship of the family’s wealth.The Magic of Thoughtful Wealth DisclosureRevealing the extent of your wealth to your heirs is like performing a magic trick. It requires skill, timing, and a deep understanding of your audience. By planting seeds early on, engaging in values-based conversations, and providing hands-on learning experiences, you can prepare your children for the responsibilities that come with their inheritance. The final reveal should not be a shocking moment but a natural progression of their education and understanding.During the interviews, families expressed mixed reactions when it came to the rising generation—citing them as both their top concern and their source of greatest excitement—highlighting the push-pull dynamic that makes this topic so emotionally charged. This underscores the importance of thoughtful wealth disclosure. Remember, the magic lies not just in the wealth itself but in the values and lessons you impart along the way. By approaching this sensitive topic with empathy and foresight, you can ensure that your heirs are well prepared to carry on the family legacy.This story was produced by Bernstein Private Wealth Management and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Joe Stutting campaigning for Iowa Senate District 35 seat Joe Stutting has filed the paperwork in his campaign for Iowa Senate in Senate District 35. Senate District 35 includes all of Clinton County and parts of Scott and Jackson counties. "As a veteran and a former educator, I am excited to have filed my paperwork to run for Iowa Senate as a Republican and serve [...]
	Iowa native brings Blues in the Schools in the QCA Iowa native Kevin Burt brought Blues in the Schools by performing for kids in the QCA. Burt played guitar and harmonica and sang at Earl Hanson Elementary School in Rock Island February 25. During his performance, he explained the history of the blues and the impact slavery had on African Americans. For more information on [...]
	Field of clones: How horse replicas came to dominate polo Field of clones: How horse replicas came to dominate poloIn Argentina, equine cloning in polo is no longer a rarity. It’s now a mature industry — although ethical dilemmas surrounding it persist.At the slightest touch of the reins, he felt a familiarity that shook him. It was 2016, and polo player Adolfo Cambiaso — considered the best in the world — was riding for the first time on a genetic clone of Cuartetera, his flagship mare. The same explosive start, the same agility in the curves, the same sustained stride in the long sprints. “It was the same,” he recalled to Knowable Magazine. “Same movements, same head. … I couldn’t believe it.” It took only a few seconds for him to realize that his gamble — which many had dismissed as nonsense — had paid off.Cambiaso, now 50, had seen before anyone else, back in 2006, the opportunity to preserve the genetics of his most exceptional horses through cloning and thus perpetuate his La Dolfina team, from the province of Buenos Aires, at the top of polo for generations.That year, in the middle of the Palermo Open final — the ultimate temple of polo — his horse Aiken Cura suffered a devastating fracture and had to be put down. But before saying goodbye, Cambiaso made an unusual request to the veterinarians. “Just in case, before they put him to sleep, I said, ‘Let’s save some cells.’” It was nothing more than a hunch. He had heard the story of Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult cell, and the idea stuck in his mind.That intuition two decades ago led to a radical change in the world of polo. La Dolfina, now with more than 150 cloned horses, has established unprecedented dominance, and Argentina has become the world center for horse cloning, far ahead of the United States and Europe. Over the years, laboratories have refined the procedure and improved the success rate — although it remains low.Hence, the high costs: Cloning a horse involves far more investment than that required to breed a good specimen the traditional way. And although equine cloning is no longer a rarity but a mature industry, the ethical dilemmas surrounding it — animal welfare, fair competition, and the extent to which biology should be manipulated for sporting purposes — still persist.Making genetic copies of mammalsIn all mammals, including horses, the cloning process is similar. First, a somatic cell — a nonreproductive cell such as a skin cell — is taken from the animal to be cloned, and its nucleus, which contains the genetic information, is extracted. At the same time, scientists take an egg cell from the same species and remove its nuclear DNA, in a process called enucleation. The nucleus that was extracted from the first cell is then inserted into this “empty” egg cell.Next, that egg with its new nucleus is stimulated chemically or by electrical impulses to begin dividing and form an embryo. The embryo is cultured in vitro for seven or eight days until it reaches the blastocyst stage, at which point it is implanted in a female who will carry the pregnancy to term.The method is called somatic cell nuclear transfer. It was used to create Dolly the sheep in 1996, a milestone that proved it was possible to “reset” an animal’s DNA and bring it to an embryonic state capable of development, although with major challenges along the way. Knowable Magazine Since Dolly, more than 25 species of mammals have been successfully cloned, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, dogs, cats, and wild species such as gray wolves and ferrets. The main limitations of cloning lie in the fact that the transferred nucleus does not always manage to reprogram itself completely, and that the mitochondria of the recipient egg and the genome of the transferred nucleus may have incompatibilities, explains Andrés Gambini, a veterinarian specializing in animal reproduction at the University of Queensland in Australia.Mitochondria are small structures within cells that produce the energy necessary for them to function. They contain DNA of their own, and for this reason, clones are not entirely genetically identical to each other. Although they share the same nuclear DNA from the original animal, the mitochondrial DNA will differ because it comes not from the original animal but from the female oocyte that was used in the cloning process. Though its DNA represents a tiny fraction of the total genome, it plays a critical role in the cell, and so those small variations can translate into differences of function and appearance, says Sebastián Demyda Peyrás, an equine geneticist at the University of Cordoba, Spain.In addition, he says, “Epigenetic patterns in cloning are altered much more frequently than in natural pregnancies. Both factors — mitochondrial replacement and epigenetics — influence the higher rate of miscarriages and the number of clones born with health problems, placental abnormalities or severe physical problems.” (Epigenetics refers to the way that genes may be turned on or off due to the addition or removal of small chemical groups, without affecting the DNA sequence itself.)Despite its technical challenges, cloning has opened the door to many applications, such as species conservation, livestock breeding, and even attempts to bring back extinct species. In the field of conservation, genetic material stored in biobanks can be used to reestablish a healthy breeding population, improving genetic diversity and increasing the number of animals that can reproduce, says Aleona Swegen, a reproductive veterinarian at the University of Newcastle, Australia, and coauthor of a 2024 overview of cloning in conservation in the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences. The main challenges, she says, are the need to find an adequate number of oocytes from closely related species and suitable surrogate mothers for gestation.Cloning also continues to face challenges in domestic animals. A critical moment, different for each species, is when the embryo stops relying on RNA and proteins from the maternal egg and begins to use its own DNA, says Pablo Ross, chief scientific officer at STgenetics, a global leader in bovine reproductive biotechnology, and an animal geneticist at the University of California, Davis. In cattle, this step, known as embryonic genome activation, occurs when the embryo has between eight and 16 cells, while in horses it occurs when it has four to eight cells.In horses, as in other species, public protocols for cloning already exist, but success depends on the expertise of the team and technical details that are not always included in manuals. A critical issue in horses is the source of the oocytes. One alternative is to obtain them from the ovaries of dead mares collected at slaughterhouses, although they can also be extracted from live females by transvaginal aspiration, a more invasive procedure but with better success rates.With oocytes obtained using transvaginal aspiration, the proportion of embryos that reach the blastocyst stage is around 35 percent, compared to just 26 percent in oocytes obtained from slaughterhouses. And the difference widens in later stages: Among mares that remain pregnant after day 42, just over half of pregnancies derived from eggs obtained by transvaginal aspiration result in healthy foals, compared to just 1 in 10 when the eggs come from slaughterhouses. Knowable Magazine In recent years, several advances have improved horse cloning, says Flávio Vieira Meirelles, a reproductive biotechnologist at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. These mainly involve methods for activation of the egg after inserting the nucleus and cultivation conditions for the embryo. In addition, the efficiency with which the genes of the donated nucleus are reprogrammed — a process that is carried out by chemicals in the cytoplasm of the egg — has improved.Greater success, too, is achieved when the donated nuclei come from adult stem cells — which are capable of renewing themselves and transforming into various tissues within an organ — compared with nuclei from fully differentiated cells from a tissue such as skin. The differentiated cells carry more “memory” of their original function. Also, cells from young animals tend to respond better than those from older animals. And, of course, the reproductive capacity of the female surrogate mothers plays a role, too. Even with everything optimized, the birth rate per transferred embryo is low in large mammals, ranging from 3 to 10 percent.Despite the difficulties, cloning has expanded and today fuels an industry as diverse as it is disturbing: Exceptional cattle are cloned to produce high-quality meat, companion animals are cloned for owners who are unable to say goodbye to their pets (and are willing to invest $50,000 in a clone of their dog or cat), and extraordinary polo horses are cloned to try to ensure victory on the field.Argentina: Epicenter of horse cloningIn 2010, while completing his doctoral thesis on cloning at the University of Buenos Aires, biotechnologist Gabriel Vichera came across a news story that shook him: Adolfo Cambiaso had auctioned off one of the clones of his star mare, Cuartetera, for an eye-watering $800,000. It was the first time that a cloned animal bred for high athletic performance had been presented as a high-value asset, and in a market where polo horses can be worth anywhere from $50,000 to nearly $1 million for extraordinary specimens, the sale made it clear that there was money waiting to be made.That clone of Cuartetera had been created in the United States. Vichera wondered if he could bring the technique to Argentina and scale it up. At that time, the University of Buenos Aires had the technology to perform cloning, and a favorable ecosystem to carry out the work was beginning to form in the country. Polo, with horses valued as works of art and team owners obsessed with preserving winning genetics, seemed like the perfect terrain to explore. “Planning to clone these exceptional horses represented a huge business opportunity,” says Vichera.Even as the news of Cuartetera sparked both amazement and controversy due to ethical concerns about manipulating animals for sporting purposes, Vichera, along with two partners, founded a company to optimize and standardize the cloning process and make it a common tool in professional polo. Sebastián López Brach // The Washington Post via Getty Images At first, the results were not encouraging. The first clones by Vichera’s company, Kheiron Biotech, between 2012 and 2016, were made from adult skin cells, and almost half of the foals from the 38 live births had abnormalities of the umbilical cord or placenta, or limbs that were abnormally bent. The turning point came when the company started working with stem cells from bone marrow. “This technology changed everything. Today, almost 100 percent of births are as healthy as those obtained through natural breeding,” says Vichera. To date, Kheiron Biotech reports having produced a thousand cloned horses.With the cloning technique now mastered, Kheiron Biotech ventured into even more ambitious territory. In December 2024, the company announced the birth of five foals that had been genetically edited using the CRISPR-Cas9 technique, a global milestone in equine breeding. The intervention consisted of inserting a DNA sequence known as SINE into the control sequences of the creatures’ myostatin gene. This is a genetic variant that already exists naturally in some breeds and influences muscle development. The main goal, however, was to demonstrate that precision genetic editing in horses is technically feasible and compatible with cloning.Vichera presented the achievement as proof of concept and a preview of a scenario in which it will be possible not only to copy the best horses, but also to introduce specific modifications to their genomes. Editing the myostatin gene has known effects on muscle fiber composition and performance during short, intense efforts, and there is ongoing research into other genes and possible applications, although the details have not been revealed.With polo as its flagship, Argentina overwhelmingly dominates the global equine cloning industry, followed — at a considerable distance — by the United States and some European countries.But despite the technical advances, significant losses occur at each stage. It is estimated that, out of every 100 embryos, 20 reach the blastocyst stage and are transferred. Of these, 10 are successfully implanted in surrogate mares, and of those 10, only five reach full term. Even among foals born, there can be problems with health and development, although the lack of public data prevents this from being quantified accurately.The high loss rate partly explains the high cost of the procedure. Although the price has fallen in recent years thanks to technical advances, cloning a horse remains a luxury: It costs around $40,000 per born animal.Cambiaso’s dream come trueShortly after Cambiaso requested that tissue from his horse Aiken Cura be preserved following the animal’s devastating fall and euthanasia, he launched Crestview Genetics, founded with Texas oilman Alan Meeker and Argentine businessman Ernesto Gutiérrez. In Texas, the company partnered with the firm ViaGen to begin the cloning work.In August 2010 — four years after the accident that killed Aiken Cura — Cambiaso was in Santa Barbara, California, when he received a call with the news that the first clones of Aiken Cura and those of his mare Cuartetera had been born. He traveled immediately to see them. “It was a strange feeling,” he recalls. “We spent two hours looking at them, unable to believe it.”Fabricio García, one of Argentina’s leading dressage experts, worked with these first young clones. “For me, it was the same as breaking in a normal colt. My boss [Cambiaso] told me, ‘Do your training, I like your training.’ The pressure was on because they were the first clones, but then I realized they were horses like any other,” he says.Training is the basis of everything, adds García, like the foundation of a house. As the years go by, the colt gets used to contact with the saddle and reins. Then it is guided through turns, stops, and starts until it learns to respond precisely to the rider’s commands. In general, horses are ready to compete at six years of age, but the Cuarteteras — all clones — started with an obvious genetic advantage that allowed them to jump onto the field earlier.The final of the 2016 Palermo Open would leave an unforgettable image. The original Cuartetera had retired a year earlier, but on the field, lined up by Cambiaso, were six identical mares — chestnut, slender, with a distinctive white spot illuminating their foreheads, all clones of Cuartetera — who would bring victory to La Dolfina. For the first time, clones were playing polo. Their names: Cuartetera B01, Cuartetera B02, Cuartetera B03, Cuartetera B04, Cuartetera B05, and Cuartetera B06.That image — six cloned mares deciding the most important tournament in world polo — sparked a debate off the field. As equine cloning ceased to be an experimental rarity and became a competitive tool, ethical questions intensified: about the morality of standardizing of animals and the biological costs of the process, especially for the recipient mares.“We can talk about identity in any individual, even cloned horses,” says Finnish philosopher Häyry Matti, who specializes in ethics. “Improving the athletic performance of a nonhuman for human entertainment is repugnant. It intensifies objectification, manipulation, and hegemonic imposition.”Indeed, in the daily practice of cloning, dilemmas about animal welfare and objectification translate into procedures and risks that are rarely visible to the public and for which there are often no public records. According to equine geneticist Demyda Peyrás, “many clones are not born in the field, but in specialized veterinary hospitals or in the companies’ own neonatal units due to frequent complications during birth.” These, he adds, are rare in traditional horse breeding.The ethical debate surrounding equine cloning has changed over the years. In the beginning, the main concern revolved around the health of the clones: malformations and potential suffering during gestation and adulthood. With technical advances and the standardization of protocols, these objections lost their centrality and, at least in the field of polo, the practice began to enjoy relative acceptance. However, this normalization did not dispel all worries. Concerns remain about the actual rate of miscarriages, health problems in foals born and, above all, the lack of transparency and public data to assess the biological impacts of the process.Pablo Ross, scientific director of STgenetics, argues that today, cloning does not differ substantially from other reproductive technologies applied in animal breeding. Demyda Peyrás, on the other hand, warns of the risk of inbreeding depression, the loss of genetic variability when crossing individuals that are too closely related. The cloning industry relies almost exclusively on lines of the “Polo Argentino” breed and racehorses. If this trend continues, it could have an impact on the fertility and resilience of animals and their ability to tolerate stress.In turn, the combination of cloning and gene editing opens up new dilemmas, says Gambini, the University of Queensland veterinarian who specializes in reproductive biotechnologies. It is one thing to use such tools to prevent disease or improve production efficiency — which could be justified on welfare grounds — and quite another to use them to enhance athletic performance for human entertainment. The risks of editing, such as unwanted health effects on the animals, are still uncertain, which is why geneticists like Demyda Peyrás agree on the value of international regulations and the need for mandatory and detailed reporting systems on the development and health of genetically modified animals.For his part, Cambiaso has always been impervious to questioning. From day one, he has defended a utilitarian view. He sees no ethical dilemmas and justifies the practice because of the benefits it brings to his game. He is driven by sporting glory and the consolidation of an industry that he himself started — an industry operating without public reporting systems that this year recorded the birth of 600 to 700 cloned horses in Argentina alone and has already cloned 60 Cuarteteras.Article translated by Debbie Ponchner.This story was produced by Knowable Magazine and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to reduce employee stress in the workplace and reap the benefits How to reduce employee stress in the workplace and reap the benefitsSome close their eyes, take a deep breath, and count to 10. Others reach into their office drawer and squeeze a tension-relieving toy. Virtually no one, however, is unaffected at some point in their lives by workplace stress.About 69% of U.S. employees said in a 2025 survey by the American Psychological Association that work-related stress is a significant burden, which is the highest number that the recurring survey has seen since the COVID-19 pandemic. The workplace is also the third-most-cited source of significant stress in the U.S.:Future of the nation (76%)Economy (75%)Work (69%)And this is a challenge for people leaders and HR teams. In 2025, the American Association for Physician Leadership estimated that each highly stressed employee results in a $12,000 loss in productivity per year. Spring Health examines how leading organizations can recognize this as an opportunity and set the standard for how to best manage workplace stress.What is workplace stress?One person’s stress response is another person’s idea of an exciting day on the job. Workplace stress is therefore less defined by a particular situation as it is by our reaction to that situation.You may find a fast-paced office job with lots of paperwork dull, but another person may get completely overwhelmed by the idea of being stuck inside while being forced to ponder spreadsheets. As an example, studies show that some active duty police officers report feeling very stressed when forced to do excessive paperwork.However, even though each person’s triggers are unique to them, there are a few commonalities that create workplace stress:A feeling of having too much to do and too little time to do it.Poor communication between employees and employers, although poor communication among coworkers can be equally problematic.Not taking enough breaks, whether that means regular annual vacations or enough time each day to eat a healthy lunch, can contribute to a very stressed-out employee. The good news is that each of these larger problem areas can be mitigated.Tips for reducing workplace stressImprove communicationIn a 2019 study from Dynamic Signal, four-fifths of U.S. workers said they were stressed as a result of ineffective company communication. Organizational leaders can sometimes forget that employees don’t know exactly what they are thinking, or are even aware of the many different variables that they deal with every day. A leader may make a decision that she thinks would be obvious to anyone who understood the circumstances behind it.The problem is that these decisions can sometimes come as shocks to the workforce, especially if the organizational communication is one-sided. While no one can explain every choice they make or indeed tell their employees absolutely everything they’re handling, companies can improve the lines of communication.To improve communication within the team, let your colleagues know what style of communication works best for you so they have a better chance of expressing their thoughts.Do you respond to email, or do you prefer in-person meetings?Do you like instant messaging apps, or would you prefer a scheduled weekly briefing?Whatever form of communication works best for you, be clear about it, and set reasonable boundaries. Team members will benefit from having clear guidelines, and feel less stressed out about giving (and receiving) important information.Make mental health a workplace priority as part of a holistic approachMental health and physical health are closely tied together. Physical health symptoms can quickly manifest into mental health needs, and vice versa. Companies can make it a part of their culture to talk about how to combat or reduce chronic stress, fatigue, anxiety, or depression. Normalizing these conversations can help to reduce mental health stigma. Managers can play key roles in doing this, which is why mental health training for managers is nonnegotiable in today’s workplaces.By raising awareness of mental health through regular communications and offering an enhanced EAP for workers to easily seek personalized, measurement-based care, companies can nip problematic stress in the bud, thereby retaining valuable employees, decreasing absenteeism, and ultimately bolstering productivity.Take steps to help employees cut healthcare costsAn innovative mental health solution should help drive down healthcare costs for employers and employees when utilization increases.Aside from offering that type of solution, there are other steps employers can take to help employees save on healthcare costs, such as:Offering tax-advantaged accounts such as health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible-spending accounts (FSAs). An employer contribution to employee HSAs can help support healthcare costs and drive participation.Implementing wellness programs that incentivize healthy behavior.Providing and encouraging the use of lower-cost care such as virtual visits and telehealth options.Encourage reasonable breaks and vacationsTaking breaks to recharge their batteries is crucial for employees. Unfortunately, U.S. employees are leaving a lot of vacation unused:62% of Americans don’t use all of their paid time off, according to a 2024 survey by Sorbet.23% of U.S. employees didn’t take a single day of vacation in the past year, per a survey by FlexJobs conducted in 2025.For team leaders, it’s important to set an example. Leaders should discuss vacations they have taken or plan to take. They shouldn’t be afraid to discuss how they go home for dinner on a regular basis and stop checking their messages overnight. Everyone will benefit from taking regular breaks and being able to destress and return to work refreshed.How enhanced EAPs help organizations reduce employee stressWorkplace stress is rarely just an “individual resilience” problem. It’s what happens when people hit a real challenge and don’t have a clear, confidential path to the right support. Enhanced EAPs help employers reduce employee stress by making it dramatically easier for people to get care that fits their needs, then measuring what improves.This story was produced by Spring Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Labor union protested outside Bettendorf's contract for Gateway Pedestrian Bridge Union representatives put up a giant blow-up rat outside the Quad-Cities Waterfront Convention Center Wednesday morning, where Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher was slated to give his annual State of the City speech.
	These major issues have brought together Democrats and Republicans in states Across the country, Republicans and Democrats have found bipartisan agreement on regulating artificial intelligence and data centers. But it's not just big tech aligning the two parties.
	Why it's a bit surprising that the U.S. is attending a key global flu meeting After the U.S. withdrew from the World Health Organization, it wasn't clear they would participate in this WHO-led meeting to determine the recipe for the next flu vaccine.
	Inflation is lower, but consumers are still struggling Inflation is lower, but consumers are still strugglingOver the past two years, the Federal Reserve has largely reigned in inflation. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) has moderated from 9.1% to 2.4%, putting the Fed’s 2% inflation target within reach.While it sounds like a victory, headline CPI numbers don’t tell the full story for the average American. Consumer sentiment remains near historical lows, and the University of Michigan reports that, for seven months in a row, over 40% of consumers have cited high prices as the primary reason for their financial distress.To understand the lived experience of consumers and how inflation is actually impacting the economy, Range digs deeper into the components of government-collected data sets like CPI and the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index. Range Headline CPI and other inflation readingsThe Consumer Price Index measures the average change over time in the prices consumers pay for goods and services. But here is where most investors go wrong: The headline number everyone discusses is only part of the story.The CPI is constructed using a basket of approximately 300 goods and services, weighted by their importance in the average household’s budget. Meanwhile, Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, can often tell a different story.Beyond these two, there are several other readings worth understanding. The “supercore” measure (services excluding shelter and energy) has become one of the Fed’s most closely watched signals because it captures the stickiest, most labor-driven price pressures in the economy. There’s also the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index. While technically a separate measure, it serves as the Fed’s official inflation target and tends to run slightly below CPI.Each measure tells a different part of the story: Headline CPI captures what consumers feel at the register, core CPI filters out volatile food and energy, supercore isolates structural service-sector pressures, and PCE anchors Fed policy. Range What these measures have been telling usJanuary’s CPI report showed headline inflation below expectations at 2.4% — the smallest monthly gain since July. Bond yields dropped on the news, and expectations for the next rate cut were pushed out until midyear. It was a sign from markets of growing confidence that the Fed’s tightening cycle has done its job.Despite the progress, core inflation has remained sticky. Only in the past few months have the two measures converged, but the damage has already been done. Sustained, elevated core inflation has worn into consumer finances and reflects a fundamental mismatch between how the media reports inflation and what actual households experience. Range The K-Shaped EconomyPart of the disconnect is that the battles of the past few years are leading to drastically different experiences across income brackets. This “K-Shaped” economy has seen higher-end consumers benefit from wage growth and strong investment markets, all while the average consumer continues to struggle.Bloomberg recently estimated that consumers today spend $126 to buy what cost them $100 before the pandemic. Grocery and restaurant prices have risen by more than 30% since January 2020. Housing has been hit on two fronts: Home prices are up 44%, and higher interest rates have nearly doubled the average monthly mortgage payment since early 2020.Lower-income households saw the fastest wage growth after the pandemic, but that advantage has largely eroded over the past year or so. This has led to a drawdown in savings to the lowest levels in over three years, as consumers tap into reserves to maintain their lifestyle. This has only just started to reflect in weaker retail sales data, while consumer debt delinquency rates are climbing to their highest level in nearly a decade.An analysisThe current rate-cutting cycle is predicated on continued moderation in core inflation, which has largely been cooler than expected for several months now. However, policymakers remain divided — some Fed members are concerned that inflation remains persistently above target and have feared an upward inflection from further tariff pressures. The appointment of a new Fed chair, with a hawkish history but a dovish mandate, further complicates the picture.While headline inflation has moderated meaningfully, the K-shaped nature of this economy may mean the Fed can’t stand still. Lower-income consumers — who spend a disproportionate share of their budgets on food, housing, and energy — are still under significant financial strain, and the data is starting to show it: savings rates at multi-year lows, rising delinquencies, and softening retail sales.This is the segment of the economy most sensitive to interest rate policy, and it may be where the Fed will increasingly need to focus its attention. That dynamic could create a structural bias toward easing.The Fed’s job could also get easier as the year progresses. The country is approaching the anniversary of last year’s tariff implementation, which means the base effects in inflation data could turn favorable in the coming months. And while still early, the long-term disinflationary effects of AI-driven productivity gains are real and may begin showing up in the data — particularly in the service-sector costs that have kept core inflation sticky.Taken together, this could put the Fed in a position to be more inclined to cut rates, even with a less-than-optimal inflation backdrop.This story was produced by Range and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How modern POS systems revolutionize the grocery store checkout experience How modern POS systems revolutionize the grocery store checkout experiencePicture this: It’s Saturday morning. The aisles are bustling, but the scene at checkout is chaos — long lines snake toward the doors, cashiers juggle complex scans, and customers fidget impatiently with full carts. This friction point is more than a momentary annoyance; it’s where operational inefficiencies meet customer frustration head-on. For grocery store operators, solving checkout pain becomes a competitive advantage — and modern point-of-sale technology is at the center of that transformation.Rapid POS explores how updated checkout systems are helping grocers move faster, manage inventory smarter, and keep customers coming back.Faster Checkout, Better ExperiencesAsk any shopper what frustrates them most, and chances are they’ll mention waiting in line. In fact, 73% of consumers say checkout delays are their top in-store frustration. Today’s systems directly address that issue with quick processing, accurate price updates, and streamlined touchscreen layouts that help cashiers move faster with fewer errors.When checkout flows smoothly, customers leave with a more positive impression — and they come back more often. Speed matters, but so does reliability. A single poor experience can have consequences: 32% of shoppers say they would stop buying from a brand after just one negative interaction.Current technology helps eliminate the slowdowns and mistakes that often lead to those negative experiences, turning checkout into a moment of convenience rather than frustration.Smarter Inventory from Every ScanHistorically, checkout and inventory management have operated independently, creating gaps in reporting and stocking. Modern systems close that gap by updating inventory levels instantly with every item scanned.For grocery stores managing thousands of SKUs — including perishables — real-time accuracy is essential. Automated adjustments, low-stock alerts, and integrated reporting reduce waste and help managers keep shelves stocked with exactly what customers need.When checkout and inventory work as one, the entire store becomes more proactive and efficient.Checkout Options That Fit Every ShopperToday’s customers appreciate choice, especially when it comes to how they check out. Some prefer a traditional cashier-led experience, while others want the speed and control of self-checkout or contactless payment.The latest platforms support all of these preferences through a unified system. Self-service kiosks, mobile checkout, and tap-to-pay features can all integrate seamlessly, giving stores the flexibility to adjust based on time of day, staffing levels, or customer behavior.It’s no surprise that shopper habits are shifting. More than 70% of U.S. customers now use self-checkout regularly. Offering multiple checkout options isn’t just a convenience — it’s becoming an expectation.By meeting customers where they are, grocers enhance satisfaction and improve throughput during peak hours.Turning Data into DecisionsEvery transaction generates valuable insights. Reporting reveals trends like peak shopping hours, average basket size, product performance, and loyalty program engagement.This data empowers managers to:Adjust staffing to meet demandOptimize pricing and promotionsIdentify high-performing categoriesImprove store layout based on shopper flowOver time, these insights drive smarter decisions, better operations, and stronger profitability. When data becomes part of the checkout process, every lane becomes a tool for long-term growth.Security and Scalability That LastBecause grocery stores process thousands of transactions each week, data security is essential. Modern POS systems include built-in protections such as encrypted payments, PCI compliance, user-based permissions, and reliable audit trails. These features keep customer information safe and help stores maintain strict security standards.Equally important is the ability for a POS system to grow with the business. Whether expanding lanes, supporting online orders, or opening additional locations, today’s solutions offer the scalability needed to keep operations running smoothly.Consistent support and easy expansion give stores long-term confidence in their technology.The Modern Grocery Store Checkout AdvantageThe grocery store checkout is more than a place to pay — it’s a reflection of your operational strength and your customers’ experience. A modern POS system transforms this moment into a competitive advantage by making transactions faster, inventory smarter, insights clearer, and operations more secure.For grocers looking to improve efficiency and elevate customer satisfaction, upgrading the checkout experience is one of the most powerful steps they can take. The right system turns checkout from a routine task into a meaningful, memorable, and strategic part of your business.This story was produced by Rapid POS and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Police: Child sustains life-threatening injuries after falling under school bus in Davenport The Davenport Police Department said a juvenile pedestrian slipped and fell under a school bus Thursday morning, resulting in serious, life-threatening injuries.
	Everything you need to know about black boxes in cars Everything you need to know about black boxes in carsMost people are familiar with the “black box” in airplanes that provides valuable evidence if there is a crash. However, not everyone knows that most vehicles manufactured after 2014 contain a black box with similar features. Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. explains how the data on a vehicle’s black box could provide crucial evidence in a car accident claim.It is particularly critical to preserve the vehicles’ “black box” recorded data, especially for crashes involving truck accidents. Quite often the raw data is used by a certified accident reconstruction expert to piece together the events leading up to a fatal truck accident. For this reason, vehicles must be preserved before they are taken and destroyed. Delay in contacting a lawyer by weeks or months, or delay in signing a retainer agreement, can cause the vehicle to get lost in the system.If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else, the information in a car’s black box could help determine whether negligence was a factor in the accident. A car accident attorney can obtain permission to access a black box and use its information to seek money to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.After a fatal accident, the state police usually download and analyze the data from all vehicles involved in the collision. If the bullet vehicle drove away from the accident scene, it may be necessary to seek a court order to preserve the vehicles. This is done by serving upon the potential defendants a spoliation notice not to destroy the black box data recorder. A personal injury lawyer can take the necessary action regarding your case once they are retained.What Is a Black Box?Black boxes, also known as event data recorders (EDRs), are devices installed in vehicles to capture and store data related to the vehicle’s performance and operation during a crash or other significant events. These devices are like the flight data recorders in aircraft, except that car black boxes do not continuously record and store data.Information from car black boxes can help law enforcement, insurance companies, and lawyers determine the cause of an accident. It provides valuable data from the seconds before, during, and after a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also uses black box logs to evaluate the effectiveness of safety systems and develop better strategies to prevent accidents and injuries.Does My Car Have a Black Box?Your car probably has a black box if it was made in or after 2014. Check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer. Some companies that manufacture EDRs, like Bosch, have a list of vehicle makes and models that you can search.The black box module is typically located in the car’s center within the console and is often built into the airbag system. This location is to help ensure that the black box is activated and recording if there is a crash.What Information Does a Black Box Capture?The information obtained from a vehicle’s black box depends on the device’s data collection and storage capabilities. It does not record conversations within the car, but it does track cell phone usage for incoming and outgoing calls and texts.Starting in 2010, the NHTSA requires manufacturers to add black boxes to their vehicles with the capacity of collecting at least 15 data points in the 20 seconds before a crash, the accident itself, and at least 20 seconds post-crash. This information includes:Changes in speed (acceleration or deceleration)Brakes (whether they were applied)Steering operations made in the 5 seconds before the crashSeatbelt useAirbag deploymentSome cars also have continuous video dash cam recording as a standard feature.How Can My Black Box Logs Help After an Auto Accident?A car’s black box provides valuable information after an auto accident. Even if there were no witnesses or traffic camera video, a black box can fill in the blanks and answer questions about liability. Commercial vehicles have similar embedded devices, which are helpful if you are injured in a truck accident.Black box logs can help in the following ways after an auto accident.Accident ReconstructionAccident investigators can recreate the sequence of events leading up to the accident and determine factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the timing of braking or acceleration, and whether any safety measures were deployed.Fault DeterminationBlack box logs can help identify sudden changes in speed, abrupt braking, or aggressive maneuvers that might suggest negligent or reckless driving. This information can be helpful in settling insurance claims or determining liability in a car accident lawsuit.Driver BehaviorThe data from black box logs might indicate whether the driver was distracted, fatigued, or engaged in unsafe driving practices, such as excessive speeding, texting, using a cell phone, or sudden lane changes.Vehicle System AnalysisSometimes, the failure of a car’s safety system causes or contributes to a crash. Black boxes capture data related to the activation of airbags, the functioning of stability control systems, and other safety features. This information can help determine whether the vehicle was operating as intended and whether any malfunctions or defects contributed to the accident or injuries.Who Can Access My Black Box Information?Although black box logs can provide valuable information about a crash, they raise privacy concerns. The state of New Jersey has a specific law designed to limit access to black box data to the vehicle’s owner and others under specific circumstances:Auto dealersMechanicsLaw enforcement agencies, after obtaining a warrantAttorneys, pursuant to discovery rules or court orderThis story was produced by Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cottage cheese sold at Walmart in Iowa, Illinois recalled Cottage cheese sold at Walmart stores in 24 state is being recalled over concerns that liquid dairy ingredients used in the items may not being fully pasteurized, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
	Death of Thomson correctional officer sparks widow to work for suicide prevention Michelle Schwarz is working on a suicide prevention bill in Congress named for Blake; offering dogs as pet therapy in a new nonprofit, and recorded a video urging others to help reduce suicides.
	Secretly rewritten nuclear safety rules are made public The Energy Department made the rules public a month after NPR reported about their existence. The rules slash requirements for security and environmental protections.
	How AI is reshaping how shoppers discover, compare and shortlist products How AI is reshaping how shoppers discover, compare and shortlist productsE-commerce is entering a defining moment. Previously, progress was driven by optimizing for consumers—improving site design, reducing checkout friction, refining pricing strategies, and expanding delivery options. That era is not over, but today’s landscape is different.In 2026, artificial intelligence now plays an active role in how products are found, evaluated, and selected. Algorithms increasingly sit between shoppers and brands, shaping decisions well before a customer visits a retailer’s site. As a result, visibility, relevance, and trust are being redefined.ShipStation’s Ecommerce Delivery Benchmark Report 2026 examines this shift through survey responses from 8,000 consumers across eight markets and 400 senior e-commerce leaders. The conclusion is clear: AI is already influencing demand, competition, and delivery performance—and retailers that fail to adapt risk being excluded from AI-led shopping journeys altogether.Below is a snapshot of some of the most important themes from the research, explaining what is changing and why it matters. The full report goes further, offering detailed analysis, benchmarks, and guidance on how retailers can remain visible, credible, and easy to buy from in an AI-assisted shopper journey.An industry under growing pressureRetailers approach 2026 with measured confidence. Many expect online sales to grow, and most anticipate improved performance over the coming year. But growth is no longer straightforward.Competition remains fierce. Fulfillment and delivery costs stay high. Acquiring new customers is becoming increasingly expensive. Meanwhile, shoppers still expect fast, reliable, and convenient experiences—there is little tolerance for compromise.Against this backdrop, AI stands out as the most influential force shaping future results. When retailers were asked which factors would have the greatest impact on their business in 2026, AI and emerging technologies ranked ahead of rising costs, competitive pressure, and all other considerations.The question has shifted. It is no longer a question of whether AI matters, but of how retailers can apply it to deliver real value.AI becomes part of everyday behaviorAI adoption has moved quickly from trial to habit. Nearly 80% of consumers report using a generative AI assistant in the past year.What makes this transition notable is how quietly it has happened. AI tools are intuitive, integrated into platforms people already use, and seen as practical rather than intrusive.For e-commerce, this changes how decisions are made. Shoppers now turn to AI for tasks that once involved browsing multiple sites, such as finding new products, comparing products, and understanding delivery terms and order returns. The path to purchase is becoming shorter and more conversational.Product discovery moves upstreamOne of the strongest signals in the research is the rise of AI-led discovery.More than a quarter of consumers have already used chat-based AI tools for shopping-related activities. At the same time, AI platforms are generating levels of retail-intent traffic that rival some of the largest e-commerce sites.In practical terms, AI is becoming a new entry point to retail. Discovery is happening earlier and elsewhere, often outside retailer-owned channels. By the time a shopper reaches a product page, their options may already be narrowed.This has significant implications for how brands compete for attention and consideration.Trust sets the limits of automationThe report clearly distinguishes between two forms of AI-enabled commerce.AI-assisted commerce helps shoppers explore options, compare features, and shortlist products, while leaving the final decision to the individual. This is where most current use cases sit.Agentic commerce goes further. In this model, AI agents act on a shopper’s behalf—choosing products and completing purchases within agreed rules and permissions.In 2026, the market sits somewhere in between. Consumers are increasingly comfortable delegating specific tasks, particularly those that are repetitive or low risk. Yet trust remains conditional. Most shoppers want clarity and control.Around 6 in 10 consumers are comfortable using AI during the e-commerce journey, but they prefer boundaries. AI can reduce complexity; the final choice still belongs to the shopper. Smaller segments are open to AI completing purchases with approval or managing routine reorders, though comfort levels vary by market and category.Delivery moves to the center of the decisionAs AI reshapes discovery and evaluation, delivery becomes more visible—and more influential.In AI-mediated journeys, delivery is easier to compare and is assessed alongside product and price as part of overall value. It is no longer a footnote at checkout.The research shows that while shoppers are price-aware, expectations around service remain high. Fast delivery is increasingly seen as standard. In many markets, more than half of consumers expect orders to arrive within two days.At the same time, demand for flexibility continues to grow, particularly among younger shoppers. Yet delivery capabilities often lag behind expectations, creating a persistent gap that retailers struggle to close.Understanding what shoppers will payConsumers are willing to pay for faster or more convenient delivery—but only up to a point.Using price sensitivity analysis, the research identifies a clear optimal range for premium delivery pricing. Below this range, prices can signal lower quality or reliability. Above it, resistance rises sharply.When retailer pricing is measured against these thresholds, a consistent execution gap appears. In many markets, fewer than half of retailers offer premium delivery at an optimal price. Some suppress demand by charging too much; others sacrifice margin by charging too little.AI changes how this plays out. Delivery is no longer just a fee at checkout. In AI-assisted journeys, delivery performance and pricing can determine whether a retailer is surfaced or ignored.Delivery as a competitive signalAs agentic systems develop, delivery reliability becomes part of how algorithms assess retailers.Clear promises, consistent execution, and aligned pricing build confidence. Poor performance or confusing options do the opposite.In an environment where product features and prices are easy to compare, intelligent delivery is emerging as a powerful differentiator. Retailers that continue to treat fulfilment as a back-end concern risk falling behind those who treat it as a strategic asset.Getting ready for what’s nextMost e-commerce businesses expect to increase investment in AI assistants and agents over the next two years, though approaches differ.Larger retailers are more likely to build capabilities internally, balancing innovation with integration and governance. Smaller retailers often rely on partnerships and platforms to extend their reach without overcommitting resources.In both cases, readiness is the limiting factor. Clean data, connected systems, and real-time decision-making underpin success.Importantly, retailers and consumers are largely aligned in the near term. Both see AI as a support tool rather than a fully autonomous decision-maker. Widespread, end-to-end delegation remains a minority preference—for now.This story was produced by ShipStation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	'Lazy jobs' aren't lazy: How Gen Z rebranded work-life balance ‘Lazy jobs’ aren't lazy: How Gen Z rebranded work-life balanceTraditional 9-to-5 jobs are becoming less appealing to Gen Z. Today's youngest workers are rejecting hustle culture and instead seeking low-stress jobs that offer flexibility, balance, and personal freedom without sacrificing financial stability.That's where "lazy jobs" come in. Lazy jobs are flexible, low-pressure roles that pay well while allowing workers to prioritize work-life balance and mental health. They are typically remote jobs, like transcriptionists and virtual assistants but can also include on-site positions, like a dog walker or a receptionist. Some Gen Zers think even more outside the box as professional cuddlers and sleep study participants.Despite the name, lazy jobs aren't about slacking. They involve choosing personal well-being over nonstop hustle. Tech-savvy workers today can use artificial intelligence and productivity tools to streamline their workflows and stay productive without working long hours.Here, Upwork, an online marketplace for hiring skilled freelancers, explains what lazy jobs are and how Gen Z is using them to redefine work-life balance on their terms.Where did ‘lazy jobs’ come from?According to a Gallup report, U.S. Gen Z workers were five points less engaged in 2024 than in 2023, which could explain why many are turning to lazy jobs. The report showed declines in areas including:Clarity of expectationsRecognitionSupportDevelopment opportunitiesThe term "lazy jobs" was coined (at least in large part) by TikTok creator Gabrielle Judge as a response to burnout and toxic workplace culture. After working in the tech industry and experiencing burnout, she quit her job and began using her TikTok and LinkedIn pages to promote healthier approaches to work.Judge's message resonates with Gen Z because it reflects what many are going through: 40% of Gen Zers say they feel stressed or anxious all or most of the time, with one-third saying their job contributes significantly to their stress, and 46% have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder. She encourages people to find easy jobs that support mental health and a balanced life.About 1 in 7 Gen Z and millennial women identify with the term "lazy girl job," a niche that Judge has helped foster within the lazy jobs trend.The lazy jobs movement might sound negative, as if it celebrates laziness or is geared toward lazy people. But underneath the catchy name, it reflects a more intentional approach to career design, one that encourages people to build careers that support themselves fully — not just financially. The movement prioritizes mental health and well-being and rejects tradition and cultural norms.Why Gen Z is embracing lazy jobsGen Z isn’t afraid to break the mold and blaze their own trail. This trendsetting generation is asking the question, why? Just because working a 9-to-5, 40-hour workweek has been the standard for past generations doesn’t mean this structure makes sense for everyone. A mix of personal values and workplace realities drives the shift toward lazy jobs. Some reasons why Gen Z is embracing the shift include:Mental health awareness. Gen Zers are conscious of how stress and pressure can impact their well-being. They're not willing to sacrifice mental well-being for a paycheck. In fact, 64% would rather have peace of mind than be wealthy. That's why they're drawn to low-stress jobs that support mental health and promote work-life balance.Previous generations' experiences. Gen Zers grew up watching their parents work tirelessly, stay loyal to employers, and still face burnout or layoffs. They've learned that hard work alone doesn't guarantee success, which is why many choose career paths that offer flexibility, well-being, and a healthier long-term outlook.Remote flexibility. After the COVID-19 pandemic normalized remote work, Gen Zers came to expect that flexibility as a baseline rather than a perk. Many lazy jobs offer this freedom and autonomy, letting workers manage their schedules and avoid the rigid 9-to-5 grind associated with traditional jobs.Anti-hustle mindset. Gen Z is rejecting hustle culture and the idea that success requires a constant grind. Instead, they value meaningful work that fits into their lives. Lazy jobs support this mindset by prioritizing achieving quality of life over climbing the corporate ladder at all costs.Economic anxieties. Gen Zers grew up during economic instability, from the 2008 recession to the COVID-19 downturn, so traditional full-time jobs haven't always felt secure to them. Many prefer building income through multiple flexible roles, like freelance gigs or side hustles. Lazy jobs give them more control over their work, income, and collaborators.The Upwork Research Institute found that 53% of skilled Gen Z knowledge workers are already working as freelancers.Global context and cultural comparisonsThe U.S. isn't the only place where lazy jobs have become popular. Many workers are questioning the glorified hustle culture and the practice of working until burnout, as this typically serves the company rather than the worker.In China, for instance, the "tang ping" trend, which translates to "lying flat," reflects a quiet rebellion against relentless social and professional pressure. This trend encourages young people to step away from the intense expectations, long hours, and competitive nature of high-pressure jobs. Instead, many are choosing simpler, more manageable roles that prioritize personal well-being over traditional success.Like lazy jobs, tang ping is about reclaiming balance in a culture that often glorifies overwork.Globally, quiet quitting is another trend reshaping how people perceive work. It refers to employees who withdraw from their responsibilities over time, often doing only the minimum required before ultimately leaving their jobs: no staying late at work, no extra tasks, no overextending. Rather than chasing promotions at the cost of mental health, workers choose to protect their well-being and focus on balance over burnout.Generally, these trends of lazy jobs, tang ping, and quiet quitting reflect a global anti-hustle movement. People are increasingly less willing to sacrifice their well-being for outdated definitions of success.Examples of popular lazy jobsThe following are some real-world examples of well-paying jobs that usually don’t require workers to overextend themselves. Some of these roles are remote, while others require in-person work, but they often appeal to people who prefer low-stress environments, lower social demands, and flexible ways of working.Popular ‘lazy jobs’ and their payData entry keyer: $19.29 per hourFreelance writer: $34.75 per hourMystery shopper: varies by assignmentVideo game tester: $16House sitter: $17Dog walker and pet sitter: $16.28Data entryIf you want a stress-free way to earn a steady income, data entry might be your dream job. The average hourly rate for data entry keyers is about $19.29, with annual earnings around $40,130.On Upwork, freelance data entry specialists typically make between $10 and $20 an hour, depending on experience. Data entry doesn't require advanced qualifications, just basic computer skills, fast typing, and attention to detail. Because it's fully remote, it appeals to Gen Z professionals who want flexible schedules and the freedom to work from anywhere.Freelance writerWriters, such as bloggers and copywriters, earn an average of $34.75 per hour or $72,270 per year. On Upwork, freelancers typically charge between $15 and $40 per hour based on their niche and experience.Freelance writing is often fully remote, giving writers flexibility over their schedules and the amount of work they take on. This makes it an excellent fit for anyone who values independence and work-life balance.Mystery shopperMystery shopping is a flexible, low-pressure job that appeals to Gen Z due to its simplicity and freedom. While pay depends on the client and assignment, the role doesn't require special training, just sharp observation and good communication skills. It's ideal for those who want control over their time and still get paid for simple tasks like visiting stores and giving feedback.Video game testerVideo game testing offers a fun way to earn and work from home. Freelance testers typically make $12 to $20 per hour, according to Upwork data.Video game testing typically involves playing and reviewing video games to spot bugs. Video game testers don’t require a formal degree. Attention to detail and excellent analytical skills can allow them to spot issues and report to clients. Unlike traditional tech jobs, video game testing is low-pressure and often project-based, making it a great fit for Gen Z's lifestyle.House sitterHouse sitting is a low-effort job that fits perfectly into the lazy job mindset. Pay varies, but the average is around $17 per hour, depending on the location and responsibilities.The house-sitting role requires no formal training, but it does call for reliability and basic caretaking skills like watering plants or feeding pets. It can offer more flexibility and personal time, making it a good option for Gen Z workers who value independence and quiet work environments. The schedule flexibility may also make it possible to take on additional work-from-home freelance projects at the same time.Dog walker and pet sitterDog walking and pet sitting are flexible jobs that let Gen Zers earn while spending time with animals. Pet sitters (categorized among animal care and service workers) make an average of $16.28 per hour or about $33,860 per year.Pet sitting requires a genuine love for animals and a strong sense of responsibility. It’s a good fit for people who prefer hands-on work, enjoy spending time outdoors, and want the flexibility to set their own schedules.What employers can learn from the lazy jobs trendAs more Gen Z workers enter the workforce, employers should consider their expectations regarding work-life balance, flexibility, and personal well-being. This will help businesses stay competitive and get the best from their workforces. Follow these practical ways to attract, engage, and retain Gen Z talent. Upwork ‍Invest in remote infrastructureGen Zers expect digital tools that match their tech-savvy mindset and support flexible work. To meet those expectations:Use tools that support async collaboration. Collaboration tools like Notion, Trello, and Google Workspace help Gen Zers manage tasks and deadlines without needing constant check-ins or meetings.Adopt flexible communication channels. Communication platforms like Slack and Zoom let teams stay connected across time zones while allowing Gen Zers to communicate in real time.Make onboarding and training remote-friendly. Offer recorded tutorials, shared guides, and digital mentoring so new hires can get up to speed at their own pace and feel supported from Day 1.Promote autonomy and trustGen Z employees value independence and want to feel trusted to do their work well. To build such a conducive environment, you need to:Set clear goals. Define what success looks like, then let them choose when and how to get there, whether through flexible hours, part-time work, or hybrid setups.Give them ownership of tasks. Build engagement and accountability by allowing Gen Z workers to take the lead on specific projects or suggest new approaches.Limit micromanagement. Check in regularly without stepping on their toes. Use project tracking tools like Asana or Monday.com to stay aligned without constant supervision.Measure impact, not hours. Evaluate performance based on the quality, relevance, and business value of deliverables rather than time spent at a deskAlign roles with Gen Z's valuesGen Z workers increasingly seek roles where their values align with the company's mission. That's why 86% of Gen Z say having a sense of purpose is important to job satisfaction. When a job reflects what they care about, they're more engaged, motivated, and loyal. To promote shared values in the workplace, you should:Clearly communicate your core values. Highlight your stance on key issues like diversity, sustainability, and mental health in your job listings, interviews, and company culture.Back your stated values with action. Don't just say you support inclusion; show it through diverse hiring, employee resource groups, and inclusive policies.Encourage open conversations. Create space for Gen Z employees to express what matters to them and involve them in decisions that shape workplace culture.Offer flexible benefits that support real lifeGen Z employees may feel less engaged when their contributions aren’t recognized or appreciated. This can lead to burnout and decreased morale. Maintain your Gen Z talent by:Providing mental health support. Offer access to therapy, counseling apps, or mental health days to help employees recharge.Giving wellness stipends. Let workers use a set amount for fitness classes, meditation apps, or other activities that support well-being and health.Making paid time off truly flexible. Create time-off policies that allow Gen Zers to step away if needed, without feeling guilty or worrying about consequences.Lazy doesn't mean unmotivatedGen Zers aren't lazy; they're just unwilling to let work take over their personal lives and compromise their mental well-being. "Lazy jobs" push for a more intentional, wellness-focused approach that helps Gen Zers maintain the work-life balance they want, making it their version of the perfect job. The shift to lazy jobs is redefining the conventional job search, emphasizing quality of life over relentless hours.Employers may need to rethink workplace culture, including how success is defined. Focusing less on hours worked and more on results, along with investing in mental health support, can help sustain long-term performance.This story was produced by Upwork and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	QCA deputies search for driver of stolen vehicle Authorities in Lee County are searching for a person driving a stolen vehicle that crashed last night. According to a news release from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Dixon Police Department, the Rock Falls Police Department notified Lee County Dispatchers of a stolen vehicle from their jurisdiction that had alerted on a Flock License Plate [...]
	5 healthy financial habits to help you make progress toward your goals 5 healthy financial habits to help you make progress toward your goalsHealthy habits aren’t just about your gym routine or the way you eat — they’re also about how you manage your money. If you’re feeling stressed or regretful about your finances, it’s never too late for a fresh start.Meaningful progress with your finances doesn’t happen overnight, but by making some small changes to your financial habits, this time next year, you could end up feeling more comfortable and confident with your finances. After all, the small, repeated actions you do every day or week are more impactful than the big, one-time changes.Are you wondering how to feel better about your money habits? Below, Wealth Enhancement breaks down what financial habits are, why they matter, and five simple habits you can start right away.What are financial habits and why do they matter?What are financial habits?Financial habits are the repeated behaviors that shape your money. They’re often small routines you follow without even thinking about it. Healthy money habits might include reviewing your accounts weekly or automatically sending money to savings each month, while unhelpful habits might include overspending on your credit cards or avoiding checking your bank balance when you’re stressed.Habits compound, meaning healthy habits usually lead to more healthy habits and, ultimately, positive results. Unfortunately, that works in reverse, too — unhealthy habits compound and can mean bad news for your money. Luckily, many financial habits can be automated and systematized through digital tools. And the easier and more automated you make your habits, the more likely they are to stick.How long does it take to build healthy financial habits?A study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology found that it takes people an average of 66 days for a new behavior to become relatively automatic, though it can range from as little as a couple of weeks to more than six months.The key isn’t so much perfection as repetition. In other words, doing the same action over and over again, even if it’s imperfectly at first, is the best way to form a new habit.How healthy financial habits support your financial wellnessYour daily habits may seem insignificant, but they are what ultimately lead to your results. Even small changes to your money habits can lead to much bigger outcomes, including less money stress, more savings, more progress toward your financial goals, and, most importantly, more confidence in yourself and in your financial situation.Money is an inherently emotional subject, and many people find themselves ignoring the topic altogether to avoid facing uncomfortable truths. But rest assured that when you face your finances head-on, you’ll finally start to see those changes in your financial wellness that you’ve been hoping for.5 healthy financial habits to kickstart your New YearThere are plenty of financial habits that could help take your finances to a new level, but these five are especially important to success, and each one includes practical steps you can implement right away.Habit 1: Track your spending and build a realistic budgetBudgeting is one of the most foundational habits for your personal finances, but it’s also one that people struggle with the most. While it may seem like more work than you can manage, you’d be amazed by how much you see your finances improve just from implementing this one new habit.Start by seeing where your money actually goesThe first step of creating an effective budget is figuring out where your money actually goes. Before building any kind of budget, start by tracking your spending for at least a month (or by going back through the last one to three months of transactions) to get a clear picture of where your money is going.There are many ways to tackle this step, including pen and paper, a spreadsheet, a banking app, an expense calculator, or a dedicated budgeting app.Turn your spending into a simple, flexible budgetOnce you know where your money is going, you can get more intentional about deciding where you actually want it to go. Your budget should cover three key categories: needs, wants, and savings.There are some popular frameworks out there, such as the 50/30/20 budget, but the truth is that each person’s finances are different, so a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work.When you’re setting your budget, use the data you collected in the first steps. Look at categories where you want to cut back on your spending, as well as those, such as your mortgage, that aren’t easily changed. Start with your fixed expenses, then fill in how much you feel comfortable spending on everything else.For additional support, learn how to automate your budget with the ABC budget system.“How long until I see results from tracking and budgeting?”Many people feel more in control of their finances with just one to three months of consistent budgeting. You may find there are fewer surprises and, if you actually stick to the budget you set, more money in your bank account.Remember that the first few months are largely about trial and error, so you might find you need to make some changes along the way to best fit your lifestyle and financial situation.Habit 2: Automate your savings and pay yourself firstPaying yourself first, one of the most important financial habits, is a budgeting method where you prioritize saving and investing over spending. Rather than saving whatever is left at the end of the month, you direct money into savings and retirement first, and then are free to spend what’s left.Why “pay yourself first” is a core financial habitThe traditional budgeting method of spending first and saving later requires us to keep up our willpower throughout the entire month or risk not having anything left to send to savings at the end.Paying yourself first, on the other hand, helps reduce decision fatigue and resist impulse spending. Not only that, but it ensures your financial goals are funded consistently.How to set up automatic savings in a few stepsTo start paying yourself first, decide how much you want to transfer to savings each month. You can start small, even if it’s just $10 per week, and increase the amount later.Then set up an automatic transfer to coincide with your payday. By having the transfer run as soon as the money hits your account, you’ll hardly realize it’s missing. Then, as you get pay increases, consider increasing your automatic transfer rather than letting lifestyle inflation eat it up.It may seem like a small step, but even $50 per biweekly paycheck will end up being an additional $1,300 at the end of the year. And if you can increase that biweekly amount over time, you’ll grow your savings even faster.Can I still enjoy life while automating savings?Paying yourself first doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying your life. In fact, you may find that you enjoy spending your money even more because you’ve removed all the guilt from it. Each time you swipe your debit or credit card, you can rest assured that your goals are already funded.Habit 3: Build an emergency fund that fits your lifeNo one wants to plan for a job loss, medical emergency, or major house repair, but these events pop up more than we’d like. That’s where an emergency fund becomes necessary.What an emergency fund is (and is not)An emergency fund is a dedicated pool of funds that you’ve put aside for unexpected emergencies. It can be used for one-time expenses, such as car repairs or medical bills. You can also turn to it if you’ve lost your job and need help meeting your day-to-day expenses.An emergency fund is critical when life throws you curveballs. It helps you avoid going into high-interest debt and helps ensure you can keep making your monthly payments if you lose your household income.How much should you really have in your emergency fund?Experts generally recommend having between three and six months of essential expenses in your emergency fund. The right amount of savings for you will depend on your personal and family finances.For example, if you live in a dual-income household and have a relatively stable job, you might feel comfortable with just three months of expenses. On the other hand, if you’re the sole earner in your family, are self-employed, or have dependents, you might need closer to six months (or more) of expenses.Regardless of what amount you decide on, start with a mini goal between $500 and $1,000. Not only does this give you a bit of protection, but it also helps give you momentum to keep saving.Simple steps to start your emergency fund this monthHere’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you build your emergency fund this month.Open a separate savings account: It’s usually best to keep your emergency savings in an entirely separate account. This ensures that it’s still easily accessible, but that you won’t spend it on anything else.Set up automatic savings: To help you grow your savings consistently, set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account.Use windfalls to boost progress: Windfalls like bonuses or tax refunds can help you reach your financial goals more quickly.Habit 4: Strengthen your credit and tackle debt strategicallyOne of the most important things you can do to improve your overall personal finances is to strengthen your credit and pay off your debt.Why credit habits matter for your overall financial healthYour credit score influences nearly every area of your financial health. It determines the interest rates you’ll qualify for on loans, the cost of your insurance, whether you qualify for a new credit card, and sometimes even when you can rent an apartment or get a particular job.Generally speaking, your credit will improve when you display that you can use debt responsibly. Habits that will improve your credit include paying your bills on time, keeping your debt balances low, and avoiding unnecessary new debt.Should I save or pay off debt first?When you’re just starting to improve your personal finances, it’s easy to get confused as to what you should prioritize. After all, it’s all important.As the first building block, build at least a small emergency fund so you’re not relying on credit cards for every setback. Even something as low as $1,000 is better than nothing.Next, turn your attention to your high-interest debt — usually credit cards. If possible, make more than the minimum payment on these accounts to get them paid off more quickly.Finally, turn your attention to other priorities, including boosting your savings and paying off lower-interest debt. While paying off low-interest debt like student loans and mortgages is important, it’s important to do them alongside building an emergency fund and investing for retirement.Habit 5: Set clear financial goals and invest in your futureHaving clear goals in place for everything from your short-term savings to your retirement savings is critical to making real strides with your personal finances.Turn “I should be better with money” into specific goalsHave you ever written down your New Year’s resolutions and included something like “get better with money?” It’s a common focus of personal goals, but most people are far too generic when setting what they actually want to accomplish.Rather than a general goal of improving your finances, try to set very specific goals in these three categories.Short-term (1 year): e.g., paying off a small debt, saving for a vacation, etc.Medium-term (1-5 years): e.g., saving for a house, building a full emergency fund, etc.Long-term (5+ years): e.g., paying for a child’s college education, saving for retirement, etc.Having short-, medium-, and long-term financial goals in place gives you clear direction when you’re setting up your financial plan and will help keep you motivated to stay on top of your finances.Remember your retirement savingsOne of the most important long-term financial goals to work toward is building your retirement savings. While it may be decades away, retirement is critical to start saving for today.To start boosting your retirement savings, start by reviewing your employer retirement plan and seeing if you get an employer match. Contributing enough to your workplace retirement plan to get the full employer match gives you the most free money possible.Next, consider increasing your contributions over time, especially as your income increases. For example, if you get a 3% raise, consider allocating half of it to your retirement plan, and the other half can go on your paychecks.Finally, utilize tools like traditional and Roth IRAs to boost your retirement savings even more, on top of what you’re putting away in your workplace plan.When to work with a financial advisorYou don’t have to work toward your financial goals alone. While a financial advisor isn’t necessary for all types of financial goals, there are some situations where this type of relationship can be extremely beneficial.For example, when you’re navigating major life changes, have several large goals you’re aspiring to, have a complex tax situation, are nearing retirement, or are simply feeling overwhelmed with your finances, a financial advisor can help.Can you still enjoy life while improving your financial health?Far too many people think they have to choose between two competing objectives: improving their financial health or enjoying their lives. But that’s simply not the case.By implementing healthy financial habits, setting financial goals, and tracking and automating your financial goals, you can make room for both goals in your life.You can do things like name a few nonnegotiable things that stay in your budget, such as a weekly date night or a favorite hobby, while spending less on the things that don’t really matter to you.And you might even enjoy your life more, because you’ll be able to spend money on the things you care about without feeling guilty about it, as you’ll know your goals are automatically funded.FAQs about building healthy financial habitsHow long does it take to see results from these financial habits?You can start seeing small wins in your finances, including fewer overdrafts or a greater awareness of where your money is going, within a month. Other habits will take a bit longer to see the fruits of your labor. But you should still start seeing some improvement within a few months.How much should I really have in my emergency fund?Most households should have between three and six months of essential expenses in their emergency fund, but it’s important to adjust for job stability and family needs. It’s important to choose a figure you feel comfortable with and know you could rely on if you lost your job.What’s the biggest mistake people make with money?Some of the biggest mistakes people make with their money include ignoring their money, which can look like not tracking their spending, not planning for the future, and simply assuming things will resolve themselves. Another key mistake is taking on high-interest debt without having a clear payoff strategy.What if I’m already in debt? Should I save or pay off debt first?Before you start prioritizing debt payoff, it’s important to build at least a small emergency savings, even if it’s just $1,000. Once you have a small amount saved, you can focus on paying off high-interest debt while paying the minimum on your other debts. Finally, you can invest for the future and pay off low-interest debt in tandem once your high-interest debt is gone.Are budgeting apps safe to use?Yes, many reputable budget apps use encryption and multifactor authentication to secure your account. However, the responsibility also falls on you to implement strategies like strong passwords and choosing reputable places to keep your money.Can I still enjoy life while improving my financial health?Yes, you can still make room for enjoyment while you’re improving your financial health. Many people set aside a “fun money” category in their monthly budgets to ensure they can meet their financial goals without feeling deprived.The bottom lineSome of the most important habits you can implement to improve your personal finances are tracking your spending and building a realistic budget, automating your savings, building an emergency fund, strengthening your credit, paying off debt, and setting clear financial goals, including retirement.Don’t worry about trying to do everything at once — it’s okay to start with just one habit, and build onto it once you feel comfortable.This story was produced by Wealth Enhancement and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Are online banks safe? 6 security tips for banking online Are online banks safe? 6 security tips for banking onlineAre online banks safe? Short answer: yes. Online banks take numerous precautions every day to keep your money safe, from advanced cybersecurity technology to the latest user authentication methods. Ally Bank shares additional steps to further bolster your online safety.First, what is an online bank?Online banks operate primarily digitally, without physical branches. While you won’t meet a teller face-to-face as a customer, you can access and manage your account anywhere, at any time, with your mobile device or computer.Because online banks have lower overhead than traditional banks, they tend to offer higher interest rates and charge lower fees than brick-and-mortars. And because they’re digital-first, online banks typically offer more advanced features to help you manage your money.Are online banks safe to use?The reality of cybercrime today means all banks have implemented advanced technologies to combat fraud and scammers — whether they’re based online or not. All federally insured banks are required to have robust security practices, meaning those online and traditional banks must meet the same standards.With any bank, look for features that protect your data, like fraud monitoring, multi-factor authentication, encryption and other tools.Tips to protect your online bank accountsBeing smart about how you communicate with your bank and protect your personal information can have a big impact in avoiding financial fraud:1. Choose where you log in wiselyIf you’re on a shared Wi-Fi network, like at a coffee shop or library, your information is in more jeopardy than on your home network. That’s because most lack necessary security measures, have poor router configurations or weak passwords, which hackers can exploit.It’s best to avoid banking or conducting any other activity that involves sensitive data over public Wi-Fi. If you’re out and need to access your bank account, use your cellular network instead.2. Use trusted websites to access your online banking accountsIn addition to checking your network, make sure to access your account through a secure browser. Avoid clicking on links appearing to direct toward your bank, even if they look safe. Instead, use a bookmark or type in your organization’s URL directly, or log in from the official app.All federally insured banks are required to have robust security practices, meaning those online and traditional banks must meet the same standards.3. Build strong, unique passwordsIt’s tempting to repeat passwords or keep them simple, but don’t get complacent when the security of your financial information is on the line. Create complex, unique passwords to provide another layer of protection for your funds. And always secure your device with its own unique keycode.4. Enable multi-factor authenticationMulti-factor authentication (MFA) mitigates password vulnerabilities. Without access to a secondary device or verification method, unauthorized users stay locked out, even if your password was stolen.Not sure what security measures your bank has? Governmental agencies like the FDIC have available resources to help you better understand how it keeps your data safe.5. Don't respond to suspicious emails, texts or phone callsCustomers across the industry are victimized every day by fraudsters pretending to be associated with a bank over email, phone or text. Some can even spoof the bank’s phone number, so it looks legitimate. Not sure what to look for? Be vigilant and look for these signs that a message might be a scam.6. Sign up for fraud alertsMost banks allow you to set up suspicious activity alerts. In the unlikely event a fraudster gains access to your online accounts, you receive an alert via email or text informing you about any questionable transactions or unusual login attempts.This story was produced by Ally Bank and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The invisible tradeoff behind 'flexible' work The invisible tradeoff behind ‘flexible’ workFor years, flexibility has been framed as the future of work. Remote options. Flexible schedules. Outcome-based performance instead of clock watching.But when you look at how work actually happens inside most organizations, the picture is more complicated.Recent large-scale productivity research suggests this question is becoming harder to answer precisely because the workday itself no longer has clear edges. Microsoft’s 2025 Work Trend Index Annual Report describes what it calls an “infinite workday,” where work increasingly starts earlier, stretches later, and fragments across email, chat, meetings, and documents rather than fitting neatly into a defined window. In this environment, flexibility doesn’t eliminate structure so much as dissolve its boundaries, making work feel continuous even when schedules appear adjustable on paper.To better understand how time is structured, managed, and experienced at work today, Buddy Punch surveyed U.S.-based business owners and individuals working in HR roles about schedule policies, day-to-day work patterns, after-hours expectations, and how flexibility really plays out in practice.This data-driven look at when people work, how schedules are managed, and who truly controls their time helps answer a bigger question many employers and employees are quietly asking:Is 9 to 5 really dead…or has it simply become less visible and harder to disconnect from?Key FindingsTraditional schedules still dominate, with nearly half of organizations operating on standard 9-to-5 or fixed daily hours, and true autonomy remaining rare.Flexibility is typically managed, not self-directed, as most organizations require manager approval for schedule changes.After-hours work is the norm, with more than 7 in 10 organizations expecting availability outside standard business hours.Extended hours are driven by workload and structure, not preference, with employees most often working late to catch up, cover demands, or manage personal responsibilities.Overwork is widespread but uneven, falling more heavily on salaried employees than hourly workers.Flexibility shifts when work happens rather than how much, redistributing work across the day without reducing total workload or increasing real control. Buddy Punch Flexibility Exists, But Within Tight BoundariesDespite years of conversation about flexibility, nearly half of the organizations surveyed say they still operate on a traditional schedule. Almost half of organizations (47%) report standard 9-to-5 or fixed daily hours for most or all employees. This underscores how deeply entrenched conventional work hours remain, even as flexibility is discussed more openly than ever.Another 21% use core hours with flexible start and end times, a model that allows some movement while preserving predictability and coverage. In other words, flexibility exists, but within clearly defined limits.And true schedule autonomy is rare. Only 9% of organizations say employees set their own hours entirely.Taken together, these findings suggest that while flexibility has entered the conversation, it hasn’t replaced the traditional workday. In most organizations, structure still comes first.Policy and Practice Tell the Same StoryOne of the more striking findings is how closely formal policies mirror day-to-day reality.A similar share of organizations report mostly standard hours in practice (42%) as those that formally define work as a traditional 9-to-5. This suggests that expectations are not just written into policy; they are actively reinforced in how work gets done.Flexibility, where it exists, tends to show up as modest adjustments rather than fundamental change. Nearly 3 in 10organizations (29%) say employees commonly start earlier or later, indicating informal flexibility layered onto standard schedules.One in five organizations (20%) report a mix of fixed and flexible schedules by department or role, indicating that flexibility is often uneven and role-dependent rather than universal.This unevenness becomes more pronounced in large organizations. Nearly 3 in 10 large organizations with 500 or more employees (29%) report mixed schedules, compared with just 17% of smaller organizations.Fully self-directed schedules remain rare in both policy and practice. Just 9% report wide variation in how employees set or shift their hours, exactly matching the share that formally allows full flexibility. That symmetry matters. It suggests that when autonomy exists, it’s intentional. And that true autonomy remains the exception rather than the norm. Buddy Punch Most Flexibility Requires PermissionFor most employees, flexibility isn’t something they independently exercise. It’s something they have to request.Nearly two-thirds of organizations (62%) say employees may adjust hours only with manager approval in advance. This reinforces a consistent theme across the data: Flexibility typically operates within oversight rather than individual discretion.This approach is even more common in large organizations. Seventy percent of organizations with 500 or more employees rely on manager approval, compared with about 60% of smaller organizations.Independent flexibility is far less common. Only 20% allow employees to adjust hours on their own as long as goals are met, and just 6% say employees freely manage their schedules without prior approval.While 1 in 5 organizations overall allows independent adjustment, who gets that autonomy varies sharply. It’s most common in organizations with mostly salaried workforces (29%), compared with just 15% of mostly hourly organizations and 22% of organizations with a fairly even mix of hourly and salaried employees.Notably, this pattern doesn’t extend to organizations that are entirely salaried. In those environments, flexibility is more tightly constrained. One-third (33%) say schedule changes are not permitted except in special circumstances. Independent adjustment is also less common overall, reflecting higher coordination, compliance, and operational complexity.Organization size matters as well. Smaller organizations are more likely to allow independent adjustment when goals are met, while large organizations are notably more restrictive. Just 11% of organizations with 500 or more employees allow independent schedule changes, compared with over 1 in 5 smaller organizations.Once again, true autonomy exists at the margins, not the center. Buddy Punch After-Hours Work Is the NormFlexibility is often framed as control over time. But for many employees, that control comes with expanded availability expectations.After-hours availability is the norm, not the exception. More than 7 in 10 organizations (71%) say employees are sometimes, often, or very often expected to be available outside standard business hours, underscoring how blurred work time boundaries have become.This expectation shows up clearly in observed behavior. Nearly 7 in 10 organizations say employees actually work outside standard hours at least sometimes, indicating that extended work time is a common reality.True protection from after-hours work is rare. Just 4% of organizations say employees are never expected to work outside standard hours, and the same small share reports that employees never actually do so.Viewed alongside earlier findings, this helps explain why flexibility often feels additive rather than freeing. Schedules may shift, but total work time rarely shrinks.Why Employees Work Outside Standard HoursWhen employees work outside standard hours, it’s rarely because they prefer to.The most common reason is unfinished work. Nearly half of organizations (45%) say employees extend their workday to catch up, pointing to capacity strain rather than choice.Structural demands also play a major role. Thirty-nine percent cite time zone or shift coverage requirements, highlighting how global or always-on operations stretch the workday.Over one-third say employees work outside standard hours to handle personal or family responsibilities during the day. This suggests flexibility often shifts work rather than reducing it.And preference ranks last. Only 22% say employees work outside standard hours because they want to. This reinforces a consistent theme across findings: most time, flexibility is bounded, reactive, and workload-driven rather than truly self-directed.Gallup’s research points to the same dynamic. According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2025, only about one-third of employees worldwide describe themselves as thriving in their lives overall, with well-being declining most sharply among managers. Gallup attributes much of this decline to expanding demands, blurred boundaries, and sustained pressure rather than lack of motivation or effort. When availability extends beyond formal work hours without a reduction in workload, flexibility shifts from a benefit to a source of cumulative strain.Who Bears the Burden of Extra WorkOverwork is widespread across both salaried and hourly roles, but its intensity is not evenly distributed.Nearly all organizations report at least some employees working beyond what their role typically requires, with only 4% of salaried and 7% of hourly workforces reporting no overwork at all.The intensity gap favors salaried employees. Nearly one-quarter of organizations (24%) say most or all salaried employees regularly work extra hours, compared with 18% for hourly employees, suggesting that overextension is more deeply embedded in salaried roles.This gap helps explain why flexibility often feels one-sided. Salaried roles absorb more spillover, reinforcing longer hours and blurred boundaries rather than true autonomy.The Takeaway: Flexibility Shifts Work, Not WorkloadFlexibility hasn’t replaced structure. It’s been layered on top of it.Across most organizations, flexibility takes the form of limited adjustments, manager oversight, and expanded availability rather than genuine control over time. True schedule autonomy exists, but it remains rare, intentional, and often confined to specific roles or contexts.The 9-to-5 may look different than it once did, but it still sets the baseline for how work is organized. Recent reporting in Forbes offers a useful way to describe the shift. The traditional workday hasn’t disappeared so much as it has fragmented, breaking into smaller windows spread across mornings, evenings, and personal time. This can create the appearance of autonomy while quietly extending the span of the workday. When work is redistributed rather than reduced, boundaries become harder to see and easier to cross. The result is flexibility that changes when work happens, without changing how much is expected.For many organizations, the next step isn’t introducing new flexibility policies. It’s reassessing the structures that shape workload, coverage, and accountability in the first place. Without that clarity, flexibility risks becoming cosmetic rather than corrective.If flexibility is meant to give employees more control over their time, it has to be designed with the same intention as schedules, staffing, and performance expectations. Otherwise, it simply redistributes work across the day…while leaving the total unchanged or sometimes quietly increasing it.MethodologyThis survey was conducted with 527 U.S.-based adults aged 18 or older who are currently employed full-time or part-time and work in business owner, HR, or HR-adjacent roles with responsibility for managing or influencing employee time, schedules, or workplace policies. All respondents actively participate in scheduling or managing employee work hours, time off, flexibility policies, or workforce planning, and had been in their current role for at least three months. Respondents worked at organizations with five or more employees across a range of organization sizes, industries, and workforce compositions, including hourly, salaried, and mixed workforces. The survey was fielded online from Dec. 4 to Dec.10, 2025. Results reflect descriptive statistics with no weighting applied.This story was produced by Buddy Punch and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	How government regulations impact home care How government regulations impact home careHome care is an excellent choice if you wish to spend your golden years in the comfort and convenience of your own home. This way, you don’t have to worry about adjusting to life outside the place you have grown to cherish and where you have made lifetime memories. To ensure you get the best quality of care at home, the government sets specific standards and regulations to oversee home care. While these regulations are for your benefit, they can sometimes be complex and overwhelming to navigate.To help you understand how government regulations impact home care, Village Caregiving compiled this comprehensive guide. It explores everything you need to know, from the quality of standards home care agencies must meet to licensing requirements.Key Components of Home Care RegulationsHome care regulations are designed to cater to your need for safety, dignity and privacy as you age at home. The core components of these regulations are: Village Caregiving Person-centered care and rights: Home care regulations aim to protect your rights as a person and help ensure you receive quality care. Consequently, in home care, family caregivers are obligated to honor your dignity and support your right to make choices — provided you have the mental capacity to do so.Qualifications and training requirements: The laws are in place to ensure that every family caregiver attending to your needs at home has the necessary qualifications and training. This stringent standard keeps you safe and in good hands.Quality and safety measures: This component plays a vital role in maintaining the highest standards of care. Home care regulations establish safety and quality measures to guide assessments, medication management and administration, emergency preparedness and other key areas.Accountability and compliance with health care laws: Family caregivers and home care agencies are obligated to comply with relevant health care laws. Take the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) as an example. You are entitled to the protection of your privacy. This means everyone who comes into your home to care for you must have all the necessary HIPAA compliance training.What Quality Standards Must Home Care Agencies Meet?Home care agencies must meet quality standards shaped by a combination of federal and state regulations. These standards include:Bill of Rights: Home care agencies are required to protect and promote several rights you’re entitled to, like your right to privacy, which is protected under HIPAA.The plan of care requirement: Before a home care agency begins caring for you at home, it is required to create a tailored plan of care that addresses your specific needs and care requirements.Emergency preparedness: Home care agencies must create comprehensive emergency plans for your safety. This is to ensure you are not left vulnerable when natural disasters and other unforeseen events take place.Benefits of Government Regulations for Home CareGovernment regulations are not just red tape. They are created for several reasons, all of which benefit both you and the home care agencies you partner with. Here are some essential benefits of these regulations: Village Caregiving Improved outcomes: Regulations guide home care agencies toward delivering person-centered care. This means you can enjoy receiving the best support in the comfort of your own home.Fraud prevention: Through stringent screening and assessment processes, relevant government bodies proactively prevent fraud by excluding bad actors. This way, you can have greater confidence in being in the care of qualified professionals.Risk mitigation: Staying up to date with regulations protects home care agencies from fines, legal issues and potential litigation.Workforce development: Certain regulations governing home care services require ongoing training for their employees to remain compliant. This leads to continuous development, which in turn translates to improved services.What Government Agencies Oversee Home Care Services?At the local, state and federal levels, specific agencies oversee and implement regulations related to home care.The Federal LevelHere are some of the primary federal agencies responsible for overseeing regulations that impact home care:Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): One of the essential roles of this agency is to establish Conditions of Participation (CoPs). The CMS exercises this role specifically in relation to agencies that receive federal funding. It sets health and safety standards that these agencies must meet to qualify for Medicare and Medicaid certification and reimbursement.Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): This agency, specifically through the Office of Inspector General (OIG), works to prevent fraud and exclude bad actors from participating in Medicare, Medicaid and other similar programs. To achieve this, the HHS conducts regular audits and evaluations.The State LevelWhile federal agencies regulate funding, state-level agencies are responsible for licensing and certifications. They also oversee tasks such as staff training and regulatory inspections. The Department of Health for each state is primarily responsible for overseeing licensing for home care agencies. Some other functions these departments carry out include:Inspections and surveys: State Departments of Health typically conduct unannounced inspections and surveys to ensure home care agencies are maintaining the required standards.Enforcement: These departments are also responsible for imposing sanctions on defaulting agencies.Third-Party Organizations That Enforce Home Care Standards and RegulationsAside from government agencies, there are independent third-party organizations that review and accredit home care providers. These organizations use standards that go beyond the basic government requirements:The Joint Commission (TJC): This organization aims to improve the quality of care that health care organizations offer. To do this, it conducts in-depth reviews to evaluate home care providers’ compliance with the standards set by the CMS. Additionally, TJC helps home care providers create better systems to adhere to such standards.Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP): CHAP goes beyond setting standards that align with home care regulations. It also sets stringent standards to promote quality, safety and compliance.Key Home Care Regulations and LawsThe following government regulations serve as guardrails, ensuring home care meets safety and quality standards for seniors. HIPAA was signed into law in August 1996. Since then, this act has governed the way health care providers and covered entities, including home care agencies, collect, store, access and share sensitive medical information. To comply with HIPAA, home care providers must implement secure encryption tools to ensure your private information stays private. Some HIPAA compliance rules that impact home care include:Security Rule: Home care agencies and professionals are subject to the HIPAA Security Rule. They must follow the set physical, administrative and technical safeguards for disclosing and using your protected health information (PHI).Privacy Rule: Under the HIPAA Privacy Rule, home care agencies are required to limit access to and disclosure of your PHI.Breach Notification Rule: If a breach occurs, home care agencies must notify you and the relevant authorities.The Elder Justice Act (EJA)Passed into law in 2010, the EJA encompasses several rights you’re entitled to as you age. One of its goals is to protect you from different forms of abuse you might be exposed to as a result of age-related factors. Family caregivers are closely involved in supporting your everyday needs.As a result, the EJA mandates background checks and multiple screenings and assessments for home care professionals. The goal is to ensure that home care agencies hire highly qualified professionals, mitigating the risks of abuse, neglect and exploitation.Certificate of Need (CON) LawsThe purpose of the CON laws is to keep state health care spending in check. It does this by approving new health care facilities and services only where they’re truly needed. This means that some states limit the number of home care agencies allowed to serve the needs of seniors within the state. While some argue that this is a restriction, it has several benefits that are reflected in the quality of services provided by home care agencies. For instance, CON laws in some states establish high standards that home care agencies must meet to obtain approval.The 21st Century Cures Act and Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)In 2016, the 21st Century Cures Act made it a requirement for states to adopt EVV systems for Medicaid-funded personal care services. EVV systems help track family caregivers’ visits in real time. Home care providers are required to record specific information that can be used to ensure accurate billing and oversight. Some of the benefits of this verification system include:Fraud prevention: The use of EVV systems is a reliable method for preventing Medicaid fraud. Since home care providers must account for scheduled visits, they can’t neglect their jobs to care for you and receive payment for services not rendered.Quality of care: EVV provides a live snapshot of your care, helping ensure caregivers arrive on time, complete each visit and deliver the support you’re meant to receive.Administrative efficiency: EVV systems eliminate the need for manual paperwork, enabling home care agencies to operate more efficiently and focus on more critical tasks.Accountability: With EVV systems in place, home care providers are held to higher standards of accountability. Knowing that their activities are being monitored keeps them working to provide prompt care as they should.Accuracy: Data collection is more reliable and accurate when home care providers use EVV systems.Understanding Licensing Requirements for Home CareLicensing falls under state jurisdiction. No two states have the exact same licensing requirements for home care agencies. However, each state requirement is thoughtfully designed to do the same thing — uphold a standard of high-quality care. Below are some important details to know about licensing.State Licensing vs. CertificationTwo terms you’ll likely come across when researching home care are licensing and certification. These two compliance measures serve different purposes in home care. Here’s how they differ:Licensing: This is a state-mandated prerequisite for agencies that offer professional care. The licensing requirements may vary based on the type of care agencies provide. In the case of nonmedical home care, some states require a different licensing procedure than that required for home health care agencies. Keep in mind that some states don’t require licensing for nonmedical home care services.Certification: Unlike licensing, certification is not government-mandated. However, home care agencies need certification to show they meet federal standards. Only then can they qualify to bill Medicare and Medicaid.Staffing and Training MandatesDifferent states set varying requirements for home care staffing and training. Some standard requirements include:Background checks: This is a common requirement for home care professionals across several states. Additional requirements in some states may include fingerprinting and drug testing.Caregiver training and certification: Each state has unique training and certification requirements for home care professionals, including the number of training hours and continuing education requirements.The Impact of Government Regulations on Home CareGovernment regulations impact home care in several ways, mainly in the following areas.CostCompared to private hires, government-regulated home care agencies may charge higher rates. A contributing factor to this is that home care providers spend more money to stay compliant with government regulations than those in nonregulated settings. These compliance costs include training and EVV software costs. In contrast, while it may be less expensive to partner with private hires, they come with certain financial and legal risks. In the long run, unregulated home care providers ultimately prove to be more expensive.Quality of CareA major focus of government regulations is the quality of care that home care agencies are expected to provide. It’s the reason for the emphasis on background checks and screenings, and continuous training for home care professionals. The effectiveness of these quality assurance measures is reflected in the quality of care you receive when you partner with regulated providers. The opposite is usually the case with unregulated caregivers who are not subjected to background checks and government oversight.Consumer RecourseGovernment agencies do more than outline rules and standards for home care. They also give individuals and families structured ways to raise concerns, make complaints and seek resolution when things go wrong.How to Verify Home Care Agency ComplianceBefore partnering with any home care agency and letting family caregivers into your home, it’s crucial to confirm that they are compliant with the relevant government regulations. This step will help you filter out home care agencies that are not meeting the high standards necessary for quality care. Here are some steps you can take to verify home care agency compliance:Request necessary documentation: A vital detail to request from a home care agency is its state license number. A license number validates the agency’s legal right to operate in a state.Ask questions about EVV: An EVV system offers several benefits, as earlier outlined. To enjoy these benefits, ensure that the system is one used by a home care agency before partnering with them.Age Safely in PlaceAging is a special time in one’s life. It’s a time better spent surrounded by comfort and care, while enjoying the companionship of loved ones. The last thing you should have to worry about is whether your home care agency has the capacity to provide the support you need and uphold your rights. This is why government regulations exist — to take the worries off your shoulders, ensuring home care agencies do things the right way.This story was produced by Village Caregiving and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Inside Microsoft’s Copilot search ads, and what makes them 25% more effective than traditional search ads Inside Microsoft’s Copilot search ads, and what makes them 25% more effective than traditional search adsMicrosoft isn’t kidding around.Aside from growing its ad revenues and search market shares, the company’s leaned into AI with integrating Microsoft Copilot into its search experience and advertising platform, and has now brought ads to Copilot search. In this article, WebFX delves into the brave new world of Copilot search advertising.What are Copilot search ads?Copilot search ads are a new placement option for Performance Max (PMax) campaigns and a new ad type, Showroom ads. They appear with a “Microsoft Advertising” and “Sponsored” label beneath the organic response. Courtesy of WebFX When do ads show in Copilot search?According to Microsoft, ads appear in Copilot search based on the “whole conversation within a single session” versus a user’s most recent message. Similar to AI Overview ads, Copilot considers a conversation’s context and intent.Where do ads appear in Copilot search?Copilot search ads appear beneath the organic response in what Microsoft calls an “ad block.” Within this ad block, Copilot explains its reasoning (in what’s called ad voice) for including the advertisement. Courtesy of WebFX What types of ads qualify for Copilot search?Copilot search supports ad formats within PMax campaigns, like search and product, as well as a new ad type, Showroom ads. With Showroom ads, users interact with an AI-powered showroom that adapts the ad experience to the user. WebFX The virtual showroom hints at Microsoft’s long-term vision where AI agents power search and advertising experiences, giving brands the power to communicate with users (and tailor communications) on-demand. Courtesy of WebFX How does Microsoft track Copilot search ad performance?Advertisers can track Copilot search ad performance within Microsoft Advertising. Since Copilot search can serve Performance Max campaigns, businesses can track pay-per-click metrics like the following:Click-through rate (CTR)Conversion rateCost-per-acquisition (CPA)Return on ad spend (ROAS) How do Copilot search ads compare to AI Overview ads?There are a few similarities (and differences) between Copilot search ads and Google’s AI Overview ads: WebFX Should I advertise in Copilot search?Got Microsoft PMax campaigns? Then, you’re already advertising on Copilot search. Similar to Google’s AI Overviews, Microsoft has made Performance Max campaigns eligible for appearing in Copilot search.What if you’re not running PMax campaigns, though? Is it worth creating them in order to appear in Copilot search results? Yes, and for a few specific reasons, including:Copilot search ads are 25% more effective than traditional search adsPerformance Max campaigns have a 3-4x higher conversation rateAdvertisers triple their ROAS (on average) with both PMax and search campaigns42% of users said Copilot search ads had a positive impact on their experienceCopilot’s conversion rates are 76% higher than traditional search adsIt’s hard to ignore PMax — and Copilot search — with these numbers. Will Copilot search ads have a higher ROAS?That’s what it looks like. According to Microsoft, Copilot search ads perform 25% better than traditional search ads when considering ad relevance metrics and conversational signals.Brands like Samsung have seen the impact of Copilot search ads through Performance Max campaigns. Besides seeing almost three times higher click-through rates, the company also grew its year-over-year revenue 143%.With its eventual brand-based AI agents, Microsoft expects to deliver even higher returns to advertisers. That’s because these agents (see below) will provide an immersive and personalized shopping experience. Courtesy of WebFX How do I create Copilot search ads?You can get started with Copilot search ads by creating a Performance Max campaign. While launched, Showroom ads are only available to select advertisers who are piloting this new ad format.How to optimize your ads for Copilot searchGet better results from Copilot search ads with these PMax optimizations:Ensure campaigns have unique goals, like “Request Installation Estimate” and “Request Emergency Service.”Create multiple asset groups based on audience, promotion, and market.Generate search themes using the words or phrases someone might use.Include audience signals, like through remarketing lists, customer match lists, and more.Choose the most relevant bid strategy, like Max Conversions, Max Clicks, or Max Conversion Value.Set realistic targets, like for Target Cost per Acquisition and Target Return on Ad Spend.Re-evaluate campaign and account budgets if regularly using up your daily and/or monthly budget.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Juvenile receives life-threatening injuries after slipping under bus in Davenport The incident happened in the 1100 block of East 37th Street Thursday morning.
	Juvenile suffers life-threatening injuries after slipping and falling under bus Officials said at 7:17 a.m. a bus was driving west in the 1100 block of East 37th Street when a juvenile slipped and fell under the bus.
	Rock Island County offers free, anonymous Narcan kits to prevent opioid overdose deaths Health officials say the medication can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes — but only if it's administered in time.
	Multiple agencies respond to structure fire in Port Byron Fire crews from multiple agencies responded to a structure fire in Port Byron just after 9 a.m., using multiple tankers of water.
	Child sustains life-threatening injuries after school bus incident in Davenport A child sustained life-threatening injuries after an incident with a school bus in Davenport this morning. According to a news release from the Davenport Police Department, Davenport Police, Fire and Medic EMS responded to the 1100 block of E. 37th Street regarding a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on February 26 at about 7:17 [...]
	Why US companies are turning to Latin America even as domestic hiring slows Why US companies are turning to Latin America even as domestic hiring slowsRecent U.S. job reports haven’t painted a particularly optimistic picture of the labor market, fueling renewed speculation about a broader slowdown in hiring.But looking more closely across hiring activity, the picture is nuanced.Hiring isn’t grinding to a halt. Instead, many organizations are slowing down to reassess who they actually need, what skills matter now, and how their teams should be structured going forward.Demand across several business-critical functions has continued to grow, even as companies post fewer roles overall in the U.S.As recruitment agency Near (Hire With Near) outlines in this article, the difference is that those hires are more deliberate and for more experienced talent.Key TakeawaysCompanies are hiring fewer people overall, consolidating work into mid-level and senior positions rather than expanding headcount.AI is changing who companies hire as they increasingly prioritize experienced professionals who can oversee automation, make judgment calls, and focus human effort on high-impact work.U.S companies are hiring in Latin America to access experienced talent at a lower cost, making selective senior hiring financially sustainableCompanies Are Redesigning Their Org Charts, Not Freezing GrowthAccording to the Challenger Report, “U.S.-based employers announced 108,435 job cuts in January, an increase of 118% from the 49,795 cuts announced in the same month last year.” That is the highest number since 2009.Recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) open jobs reports have also shown relatively low numbers of open jobs.Put together, these paint a picture that U.S. companies aren’t hiring. However, our data suggests otherwise.Companies are hiring, but many companies are first stepping back and rethinking their organizational structure altogether. They’re reexamining how work is distributed across people and technology.AI tools are increasingly being used to handle high-volume, repetitive tasks across departments. That shift isn’t eliminating the need for human workers, but it is changing which parts of the job require people and what skills those folks need to bring to the table.Across departments like marketing, sales, engineering, and customer support, companies are narrowing their focus to roles where judgment and experience matter most.In fact, Near’s State of LatAm Hiring 2026 Report shows that 84% of hires over 2025 were for mid-level and senior positions. Near (Hire With Near) Customer Support: Automation for Volume, Humans for ComplexityCustomer support is one of the clearest examples of this transition.Many companies are deploying AI-powered chatbots and automated workflows to handle routine requests, such as basic troubleshooting, account questions, or order updates. These tools allow teams to resolve a significant share of inbound issues without human involvement.At the same time, companies still need people available for live conversations, especially when issues are complex or emotionally charged.As a result, the emphasis has shifted away from scaling support headcount broadly and toward ensuring experienced humans are available when automation falls short.That approach has already led to tangible workforce changes at large companies.For example, Salesforce publicly acknowledged that after deploying AI agents to handle routine customer service interactions, it reduced its support workforce by roughly 4,000 roles, nearly cutting the team in half.CEO Marc Benioff said the company “needs less heads” now that AI can handle a large portion of customer conversations.Rather than eliminating support altogether, the change reflects a broader shift: Automation handles volume, while humans are reserved for the moments that require judgment and empathy.Sales Teams Are Using AI to Save Time, not Replace Great SellersGood sales teams aren’t using AI to remove humans entirely from the sales process. They’re using it to strip out the repetitive work and concentrate human effort where it moves revenue.In practice, this looks like:AI tools handling prospect research, account enrichment, and list building, dramatically reducing the time reps spend preparing outreach.Automated systems generating first-pass personalization for emails and LinkedIn messages, allowing reps to add that final human touch.AI-driven lead scoring and intent signals, helping teams prioritize which prospects are worth a follow-up by a rep.These changes are directly influencing hiring decisions.Rather than adding large numbers of junior sales reps to increase activity volume, many companies are prioritizing fewer, more experienced sellers who can interpret signals, manage complex objections, and close deals once AI has filtered the noise.The net effect is smaller teams with higher expectations per role.Marketing Is Shifting Toward Fewer, More Senior OperatorsMarketing teams are seeing a similar shift.AI is increasingly used to handle execution-heavy tasks that once required additional headcount, including:Drafting early versions of blog posts, landing pages, and ad copy.Generating variations for paid campaigns and A/B tests.Collating and summarizing performance data and flagging anomalies across channels.From what Near is seeing, many teams no longer need as many specialists focused purely on execution.Instead, they’re prioritizing marketers who can direct AI output (including evaluating AI-generated work rather than blindly shipping it), make strategic decisions, and tie activity back to revenue.Software Engineering Shows How Complicated the Hiring Picture Really IsSoftware development is often cited as one of the roles most likely to be disrupted by AI. But hiring data suggests that automation hasn’t reduced demand for engineers. Rather, it has changed which engineers companies want to hire.Near’s State of LatAm Hiring report showed that demand for software engineers grew 250% year over year in 2025. At the same time, 98% of those engineering hires were mid-level or senior professionals. Near (Hire With Near) Rather than eliminating engineering roles, companies are consolidating responsibility into fewer, more experienced hires. Senior developers are increasingly expected to design systems, review AI-generated output, and make architectural decisions that automation alone can’t handle.This pattern mirrors what’s happening across other functions: AI is absorbing routine work, while increasing demand for people who can oversee systems, make decisions, and operate effectively in more complex environments.Why Latin America Is Becoming a Key Hiring Market for U.S. CompaniesAs companies rethink how work gets done and consolidate responsibility into fewer, more experienced positions, many are running into a practical constraint: Experience is expensive.As a result, some organizations are expanding their search beyond the U.S., particularly for roles that can be done remotely.From what we’re seeing at Near, hiring in Latin America has become an increasingly popular way for U.S. companies to access experienced professionals without committing to the full cost of U.S.-based salaries.This is especially true in functions where time-zone alignment and real-time collaboration matter.On average, U.S. companies can save 30–70% on salary costs by hiring in Latin America, thanks to lower living costs there.That cost difference allows companies to hire at a higher seniority level than their U.S. budgets might otherwise support, and in many cases, continue hiring when domestic compensation expectations would put team expansion on hold. Near (Hire With Near) Final ThoughtsThe current hiring environment can look contradictory at first glance. Job openings are down, and companies are cautious about headcount. Yet hiring activity continues in key areas.Rather than hiring broadly, many companies are focusing on fewer roles with higher expectations, prioritizing experience, adaptability, and the ability to work alongside AI tools.Companies will continue to hire. But they will also continue to evaluate which parts of the work still require a human, and which skills those humans need to bring to justify the role.That shift is one of the reasons more U.S. companies are expanding where they hire, particularly in Latin America, where they can access experienced professionals while staying aligned with tighter budgets and leaner team structures.This story was produced by Hire With Near and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to use a business credit card to manage expenses and save How to use a business credit card to manage expenses and saveRunning a business means juggling expenses, receipts, and cash flow on top of everything else. A business credit card can make that easier. It helps you cover everyday costs, separate business from personal spending, and even build your company’s credit history.Ramp explains how to use a business credit card the right way to boost your buying power, simplify bookkeeping, and unlock valuable rewards while helping you avoid common pitfalls.What is a business credit card and how does it work?A business credit card works like a personal credit card, but it's designed for company spending — things like vendor payments, software subscriptions, equipment, and travel. You charge purchases, receive a monthly statement, and pay the balance by the due date.The key differences from personal cards: Business cards typically offer higher credit limits and rewards in categories such as advertising, travel, and shipping. The best business credit cards also include built-in spend controls and expense management tools that give you visibility into team spending. You'll find options tailored to different structures, including business credit cards for LLCs, partnerships, startups, and corporations. Issuers report your activity to business credit bureaus, so responsible use builds your company's credit profile over time.It's worth noting that business credit cards carry fewer federal consumer protections than personal cards. The CARD Act's restrictions on rate increases and fee disclosures, for example, don't fully apply. That makes reading the fine print even more important.Most cards let you add employee cards and track spending across your team. Small business owners, finance managers, and growing teams use them to cleanly separate personal and company expenses.How to qualify for a business credit cardIssuers typically check your personal credit score first. Requirements vary by card, but a score of 670 or above generally qualifies you for a standard card, while 740 or higher opens the door to the best rates and terms. If your score falls below that range, a secured business card — which requires a cash deposit — may be your starting point.Lenders also weigh business revenue, years in operation, and your bank balances. Building credit through vendor accounts or responsible borrowing improves your odds.Expect to provide documents like tax returns, bank statements, licenses, and financial projections when you apply.How card payments and interest workWhen you carry a balance on your business credit card, you must make at least a minimum payment every month. To avoid interest, pay the full statement balance whenever possible. Business card rates often run higher than personal credit card interest rates.Most issuers give you a 21-day grace period on new purchases. If you miss a payment, you’ll face late fees and higher costs. Setting up automatic payments helps ensure you don’t miss a due date.Tax implications of a business credit cardTax rules around business credit cards can be nuanced, so it's worth confirming your approach with a tax professional and reviewing IRS guidelines on deductible expenses. That said, in most cases, many business expenses you charge to your card are deductible, including business credit card interest and annual fees.Accurate record-keeping is essential: save receipts, invoices, and statements for every purchase. To streamline bookkeeping and tax prep, pay your card from a dedicated business bank account. Mixing personal and business charges can create problems during tax season and draw IRS scrutiny.What can I use my business credit card for?Business credit cards give you flexibility to cover essential costs while keeping expenses separate from your personal spending. Here are the most common uses:Common business expensesYou can use a business credit card for everyday operations, including:Office supplies and subscriptionsTravel costs like flights, hotels, and rental carsEquipment such as computers, furniture, and softwareInventory purchases for resaleEmployee expenses like client meals or reimbursementsBuilding business creditUsing your card responsibly helps you strengthen your company’s financial profile:Establish credit history by making regular, on-time paymentsQualify for loans with a stronger credit score and positive payment historyRewards and benefitsMost cards offer perks that put money back into your business:Cashback or points you can redeem for travel, statement credits, or gift cardsTravel perks such as insurance or airport lounge accessPurchase protection to cover damage or theft on eligible itemsStep-by-step: How to use a business credit card responsiblyUsing a business credit card wisely comes down to a few simple but powerful habits. Follow these steps to stay organized, protect your finances, and maximize your benefits:1. Determine who gets a cardDecide whether only owners and executives receive cards, or if managers and employees also need them. The fewer cardholders you have, the easier it is to track spending and limit the risk of misuse.2. Set employee card spending limitsMost issuers let you assign individual limits or block certain categories. Set limits to keep employees within budget, prevent overspending, and reduce the chance of business credit card fraud.Go a step further with policy and oversight: publish a short expense policy (what’s allowed, receipt rules, approval thresholds), enable real-time alerts for large or out-of-policy spends, and review a monthly report to spot patterns or misuse. Lock, lower, or revoke cards when needed to enforce the policy.3. Track all expenses diligentlyRequire receipts for every transaction. Use your card’s built-in expense management features or connect it with accounting software. These tools simplify reconciliation, prepare you for tax season, and give you a clear view of where your money goes.4. Pay on time and in fullMissing payments or carrying high balances damages both business and personal credit. Automate payments if you can, and aim to pay the statement balance in full each month. Doing so avoids interest charges and strengthens your credit history.5. Spend responsiblyHigh credit utilization — using too much of your available credit — can lower your score. Aim to keep balances below 30% of your limit. Regularly maxing out your card signals risk to lenders and may lead to lower limits or denied applications.6. Monitor credit card statements and rewardsCheck your statements monthly to catch errors, unauthorized charges, or fraud. If you spot an unfamiliar transaction, contact your issuer immediately — most cards offer zero-liability protection on unauthorized purchases, but you typically need to report the charge within 60 days. Set up transaction alerts so unusual activity gets flagged in real time rather than at the month's end.Track your rewards alongside your statements and redeem them before they expire to offset business costs.Pros and cons of business credit cardsBusiness credit cards are a great way to separate your business finances, earn rewards on your purchases, and build business credit. Despite this, there are both advantages and disadvantages you should consider.Key advantagesReward programs: Earn cashback, statement credits, or travel points on eligible purchasesBuild business credit: Strengthen your company’s credit score, making it easier to qualify for loans and increase your credit limitImprove cash flow: Spread out large purchases without straining immediate cash reservesSimplify expense tracking: Card statements provide a clear overview for bookkeeping and taxesFraud protection: Most cards include safeguards against unauthorized transactionsCommon drawbacksSome disadvantages of using a business credit card include:Annual fees: Some cards charge yearly fees that may outweigh the benefitsHigh interest rates: Carrying a balance or paying late quickly increases costsTemptation to overspend: Easy access to credit can lead to poor budgetingPersonal credit risk: Many cards are tied to personal credit, so mismanagement can damage both personal and business scoresTips to maximize your business credit cardFollow these practices to get the most value from your business credit card while keeping finances under control.Don’t mix personal and business expensesUsing your card for both business and personal expenses creates accounting headaches and potential tax issues. It can also violate your card agreement. Keep purchases separate to maintain clean records and limit liability.Read the fine print on introductory offersIssuers often promote 0% APRs or sign-up bonuses. These perks can help, but they come with conditions. For example, if you finance a large purchase with a 0% APR offer and don’t pay it off in time, the interest rate may spike. Used carefully, no-interest business credit cards can provide short-term flexibility without adding borrowing costs.Optimize your benefits and rewardsMany cards offer higher rewards in specific categories like travel or dining. Others provide flat-rate cashback on every purchase. Choose a card that matches your spending patterns so you earn without overspending.Make use of virtual cardsA virtual credit card generates a unique number linked to your main account. You can issue unlimited cards, assign them to specific vendors or employees, and lock or delete them instantly without affecting your primary account.For example, you might create a dedicated virtual card for each SaaS subscription your team uses. If you cancel a service, you can shut off that card number immediately — no risk of lingering charges. If a vendor's payment system is compromised, only that one card number is exposed. This level of control makes virtual cards one of the more practical fraud-prevention tools available.This story was produced by Ramp and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Illinois soybean farmers welcome federal aid, but fear long-term trade damage At the end of February, Illinois soybean farmers are set to receive special federal payments through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
	Crews battle fire in rural Port Byron Crews in Port Byron are battling a fire Thursday morning.
	Davenport police respond to scene of accident involving Davenport Schools bus At least one person was hurt in a Thursday morning crash in Davenport near East Kimberly Road. Police are investigating.
	Why rising repair costs aren’t boosting auto shop profits Why rising repair costs aren’t boosting auto shop profitsCar repair costs have been rising steadily across the United States, adding to the growing costs of car ownership. Federal data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the price index for motor vehicle maintenance and repair has increased by roughly 35%-40% since 2019 (approx. 315 in 2019 to about 440 in late 2025), based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the category. According to Kelley Blue Book, the national average cost for all types of vehicle repairs (across all makes and models) is about $838. Yet despite these higher prices, industry data suggests many auto repair shops are facing rising costs of their own, leaving their profit margins shrinking rather than improving. How did such a paradoxical situation come about? Here, Way.com examines what's driving costs on both sides of the counter.Why did repair costs spike?Vehicle repair costs have climbed 43% since 2019, according to data cited by Auto Finance News from Synchrony Financial.The two main culprits for those huge repair bills are labor and parts. Labor rates at repair shops have gone up in recent years as the industry grapples with a shortage of experienced repair technicians. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the industry will need more than 70,000 new automotive service technicians annually (from 2024 to 2034) just to replace retirees and workers leaving the field. At the same time, industry workforce groups report persistent national shortages, forcing shops to raise wages and compete aggressively for talent.At the same time, replacement parts have also become costlier, especially electronic components and advanced sensors that are now standard in many vehicles. Tariffs on imported parts aren’t helping either.Changes in car owner behavior also likely play a role, according to USA Today. More and more people are holding on to their cars longer because of the high costs of buying a new one, including the price of a new car and interest rates. This has also increased the demand for repairs and pushed up the cost of keeping older vehicles on the road. Way.com If repairs cost more, why aren’t shops thriving?Given how expensive car repairs have become, it is only natural to assume that auto repair shops are doing especially well in terms of profits. However, industry data points to a more restrained reality. Research from IBISWorld shows that profit margins at auto repair shops, especially smaller independent shops, remain relatively thin, even as prices charged to customers have increased.Public financial results from a leading automotive service and tire provider show this playing out in real margins. In the report, operating results swung from about +4.5% of sales to a -2.0% operating loss year over year, and total operating expenses climbed from 32.7% to 37.5% of sales due to higher technician labor and material costs.Many shops also invest in staying compatible with newer vehicles coming through their doors. Add in rising rent, insurance, utilities, and compliance costs, and even well-run shops can find that higher revenue does not automatically translate to higher profits.Much of what drivers are paying reflects higher costs that auto repair shops themselves are facing and passing along. Rising technician wages, more expensive parts, rent, insurance, and the growing cost of tools and training needed to service newer vehicles have all made running a repair shop more expensive, leaving limited room for profits to grow.What’s driving up costs for repair shops?Much of the answer lies in the rising costs of simply running a repair business. According to a study by IMR Automotive Market Research, labor remains the single biggest pressure point. Repair shops continue to struggle with a shortage of skilled technicians. This has forced many operators to raise wages, offer signing bonuses, or rely on overtime just to keep their bays staffed. Those higher labor costs do not always translate cleanly into higher billable hours, especially as modern vehicles require more diagnostic time that is not fully recoverable.Parts costs are another challenge. Automotive Market Research notes that replacement part prices remain high, driven by supply chain disruptions, tariffs, and the growing use of advanced electronic components. While parts prices have risen for customers, repair shops often have limited flexibility on markups, particularly when using OEM parts or competing with online pricing. As a result, higher parts costs frequently pass straight through to customers without boosting shop margins. Way.com Technology and overhead costs are also climbing. Newer vehicles require expensive diagnostic tools, software subscriptions, and specialized equipment for tasks such as ADAS calibration.Many shops must make ongoing investments just to stay compatible with the newer vehicles coming through their doors. Add in rising rent, insurance, utilities, and compliance costs, and even well-run shops can find that higher revenue does not automatically translate to higher profits.So what exactly does this mean for repair shops?As auto repair operators see repair costs rise, it is not so much about raising their prices as about managing margins. With the problem of labor shortages and the added complexity of cars, the auto repair industry is facing a distinct challenge whereby the increase in revenue does not automatically equate to an increase in profitability, as there are limits to raising the price to reflect the increase in the cost of repair, especially with the price-conscious nature of auto repair customers.The broader significance extends beyond the auto repair industry. Many service-based businesses face similar challenges, where balancing rising costs and customer demands is a huge challenge. When wages, equipment, and compliance costs are increasing, it is challenging, even in robust market conditions.It is becoming increasingly clear that rising repair costs are not really about burdening the consumer. Rather, they reflect the changing nature of skilled service-based business models. There are opportunities for businesses looking to improve cost efficiency. The way forward for business is combining pricing discipline with better use of data, diagnostic technology, and operational insights.This story was produced by Way.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cities with the most Black-owned businesses Cities with the most Black-owned businessesFebruary is Black History Month, and to honor the occasion, researchers at TruckInfo.net analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau to better understand the positive impact of Black entrepreneurs.Despite gains in recent years, Black entrepreneurs are still underrepresentedAlthough Black and African Americans represent 13.7% of the population, only 3.2% of employer firms (those with at least one employee) are Black-owned. This discrepancy highlights both the challenges and the untapped potential within the community. TruckInfo.net Black entrepreneurs see the most success in Southern metro areasBlack-owned businesses in the South exceed national averages. For example, Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, Georgia, has nine times as many Black-owned businesses as would be expected based on population alone. The metro areas with the highest concentration of Black-owned employer firms include:1. Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GeorgiaBusinesses that are Black-owned: 10.7%Black population: 34%Black-owned businesses: 13,091Black-owned businesses per 10k: 622. Fayetteville, NCBusinesses that are Black-owned: 9.9%Black population: 36.8%Black-owned businesses: 472Black-owned businesses per 10k: 333. Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WVBusinesses that are Black-owned: 9.4%Black population: 24.9%Black-owned businesses: 10,627Black-owned businesses per 10k: 684. Memphis, TN-MS-ARBusinesses that are Black-owned: 9.1%Black population: 46.8%Black-owned businesses: 1,477Black-owned businesses per 10k: 245. Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk, VA-NCBusinesses that are Black-owned: 8.8%Black population: 29.7%Black-owned businesses: 2,357Black-owned businesses per 10k: 446. Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MDBusinesses that are Black-owned: 8.0%Black population: 29.0%Black-owned businesses: 4,201Black-owned businesses per 10k: 517. Richmond, VABusinesses that are Black-owned: 8.0%Black population: 28.5%Black-owned businesses: 2,011Black-owned businesses per 10k: 538. Columbus, GA-ALBusinesses that are Black-owned: 7.8%Black population: 42.3%Black-owned businesses: 379Black-owned businesses per 10k: 279. Tallahassee, FLBusinesses that are Black-owned: 7.6%Black population: 31.9%Black-owned businesses: 563Black-owned businesses per 10k: 4510. Durham-Chapel Hill, NCBusinesses that are Black-owned: 7.5%Black population: 24.0%Black-owned businesses: 837Black-owned businesses per 10k: 59At the state level, Washington DC, Maryland, and Georgia have the highest concentration of Black-owned employer businesses — by a wide marginThe District of Columbia, Maryland, and Georgia each have about 50% more Black-owned businesses compared to other states. While 9% of employer businesses in Georgia are Black-owned, only 5% of employer businesses in Mississippi are Black-owned, even though the state has the second-highest concentration of Black population. TruckInfo.net Transportation is the second most popular industry for Black entrepreneursWhile only 3.2% of employer firms are Black-owned, 6.9% of transportation and warehousing firms are Black-owned — more than twice the national average. Other popular industries include health care and social services, administrative support, and entertainment. TruckInfo.net MethodologyAll data was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau for 2023, the most recent data available. Only businesses that employed at least one individual were included in the analysis.This story was produced by TruckInfo.net and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	One in four US office workers are considering leaving their role because of the amount of admin required One in four US office workers are considering leaving their role because of the amount of admin requiredA study of 3,000 office-based adults found 46% feel overwhelmed by the volume of routine tasks in their day-to-day jobs, and 50% of these have looked for a new job as a result.Drafting emails is the single biggest drain on time, cited by 34% of workers.This was followed by reading emails (31%), updating data in spreadsheets (19%) and preparing reports (14%).Others added that researching information online (17%) and analysing data (17%) were particularly time-consuming.Despite the growing availability of automation, 43% have some help from AI tools but could do with more, while 33% rarely or never use any tools to support their role.The research was commissioned by email assistant Fyxer between Nov. 21 and Dec. 1 2025 as part of its Admin Burden Index, which explores the productivity cost of routine tasks and how this hidden drain could stunt business growth.It also emerged that 37% of those who feel overwhelmed by daily admin say it takes time away from their main responsibilities.One in 3 find them repetitive and boring, and for 31%, the jobs pile up faster than they can do them.Additionally, 55% have seen their workload increase over the past 12 months, and of those, they estimate 30% of this increase is admin-related.As a result, 59% reported working longer than their contracted hours at least once a week, with 11% doing so every day.On average, they reckon they work for nearly an extra hour.The research, carried out by OnePoll, also explored email volumes, revealing workers receive an average of 48 emails a day and send 36 in return.Further data from Fyxer’s platform also reveals that 40% of email activity takes place outside of working hours.Writing and responding to emails alone takes up almost two hours of the average working day.Top 10 admin tasks that waste the most timeWriting or replying to emailsReading emailsResearching information onlineOrganising files/documentsAnalysing or summarising dataPreparing reportsEntering or updating data in spreadsheets or systemsManaging to-do lists or task remindersScheduling meetings or managing diariesTracking project progress or deadlinesThis story was produced by Fyxer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Friday, February 27th, 2026

Thursday, February 26th, 2026