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

Thursday, June 25th, 2026
	Take a Stay-cation with Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois invites families to take a free Stay-Cation on July 11 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Gilda's Club Davenport, 1351 West Central Park Ave, Suite 200. Participants can enjoy brunch, take a ukulele lesson and get photos with characters from the University of Iowa’s Moment of Magic [...]
	Geneseo school board votes to table solar farm project The delay means the district will miss out on the current round of federal incentives.
	Supreme Court says U.S. can turn away asylum seekers at the border By a 6 to 3 vote, the high court ruled that that federal law allows the government to stop asylum seekers from physically setting foot in the United States, effectively keeping them from applying for asylum.
	Trump can begin deportations of Syrian, Haitian TPS holders, Supreme Court says Writing for the court majority, Justice Samuel Alito that under the TPS law, the president has unreviewable authority to end the program, without intervention from the courts.
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| June 25, 2026 In the final edition of the Weekend Rundown with Dani, we preview QC Fright Con 2026, Planet Funk Con, Pride Party at Bass Street Landing and more.
	Downtown Davenport Partnership unveils new branding, highlights future projects Downtown Davenport is home to more than 270 businesses, 2,700 residents and a workforce of 6,500 people.
	Illinois health dept. order expands contraceptive access through pharmacists The Illinois Department of Public Health expanded access to non-hormonal, emergency, and over-the-counter contraception through trained pharmacists.
	Durbin raises concerns over rumored Iran nuclear deal details, rumored $300B figure Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin questioned a rumored $300 billion figure and raised nuclear inspection concerns regarding a potential deal with Iran.
	Davenport School Board demolishes 2 century-old buildings on Brady Street Crews demolished two century-old buildings in Davenport after school board officials determined restoration costs were higher than removal.
	U.S. Supreme Court backs Monsanto in its fight against liability from popular weed killer The central issue in the Roundup case, filed by Missouri resident John Durnell, was who decides what should appear on a pesticide or insecticide label—and whether a federal law overrides state claims.
	Durbin criticizes Trump’s decision to cancel housing reform signing Illinois Senator Dick Durbin criticized President Donald Trump for halting plans to sign a bipartisan bill aimed at lowering housing prices.
	Quad Cities transit systems launch survey for resident feedback on transportation Four Quad Cities area communities launched a public survey to gather feedback and improve local transportation systems to support the regional economy.
	Downtown Davenport Partnership unveils brand identity, $68M in planned investments The Downtown Davenport Partnership launched a new brand identity and logo, highlighting $68 million in planned investment projects in the area.
	A federal judge in Boston has blocked parts of Trump's order to limit voting by mail A federal judge in Boston has blocked parts of President Trump's executive order to limit voting by mail. The Trump administration is expected to appeal the ruling.
	Rivermont Collegiate, Bettendorf, announces new AI-powered learning initiative Rivermont Collegiate has announced a new personalized learning pilot launching in the 2026–2027 school year, according to a news release. Through a partnership with Lorsey, Rivermont has been selected as the platform's FoundingDesign-Partner School, helping to shape the future of AI-powered personalized learning and exploring new ways to support students, teachers, and families. The initiative [...]
	Pleasant Valley School District principal resigns, resignations, hirings from June 8 school board agenda (copy) The following personnel items are from the June 8 of the Pleasant Valley School District. The School Board met at Belmont Administration Center at 525 Belmont Rd., Riverdale, Iowa.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for June 25, 2026 OneTable QC is hosting a follow-up meeting on local nonprofits, Muscatine is hosting an Almost Friday Fiesta, and Clock Inc. is holding its annual art auction.
	Beyond the First Alert’ expands weather coverage on KWQC+ KWQC’s new streaming show “Beyond the First Alert” gives viewers a deeper look at weather trends, forecast decisions, and educational segments hosted by Kyle Kiel and Meteorologist Diana Rodriguez.
	Pay It Forward: Davenport woman serving love to homeless through hot meals Jacqueline Williams, 81, cooks a free Sunday dinner every week at her home for anyone who lacks food. She also feeds the homeless once a month.
	City of Muscatine launches new webpage with resources for those impacted by downtown evacuations East 2nd Street remains closed to all traffic except authorized personnel.
	Pay It Forward \| Davenport woman takes meals to those in need Jacqueline Williams and her husband work to bring joy to people in need, preparing boxed meals for those experiencing homelessness.
	Geneseo buys parts for lift station in new TIF Aldermen on Tuesday voted 7-0 to approve spending $126,395 from the general fund for Ford Road lift station component parts.
	Dry today with rain chances the next few days The Quad Cities will enjoy a few more warm days before intense summer heat and humidity builds in late weekend. Some rain is expected Friday with a better chance of showers and storms Saturday night. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	It's Mine (Beiderbecke) This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Remember that doll that sat forgotten in a corner of your room when you were a kid, until a visiting cousin found it…
	iHeartMedia layoffs hit home as Quad Cities talent lose jobs Several local radio stations, including WLLR and Big 106.5, are owned by iHeart.
	Scott County Sheriff’s Office warns of asphalt and paving scam Scott County residents are being warned of a door-to-door asphalt and paving scam. According to a Facebook post by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, a company is offering discounts for services and request to be paid prior to the job being completed. According to the post: The Scott County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who believes [...]
	4 surprising things to know about abortion in America since Dobbs A confusing patchwork of state laws began to take shape hours after the Supreme Court ruled to overturn Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022. Here's where things stand now on the abortion issue.
	Long before the World Cup, Ukrainian immigrants built a soccer powerhouse in Philly World Cup games are underway in Philadelphia. Long before Americans caught the world's soccer craze, Ukrainian migrants made Philly a soccer town. Today, the sport helps sustain their culture.
	'They can kill you': Immigrants fear a surge in xenophobic violence in South Africa Foreign-owned businesses have been attacked, migrants driven from their homes, and several killed. A leading xenophobic group has given all undocumented immigrants until June 30 to leave the country.
	Trump keeps sabotaging legislation over a voting bill. Here's what's in it President Trump blew up what could have been a win for his party — and he did it to force lawmakers to pass an elections overhaul bill that has been all but doomed in the Senate.
	How to find middle ground when your partner wants kids — and you don't Psychotherapist Merle Bombardieri has been helping couples with this conundrum for decades. She shares four exercises to bring clarity to the situation — and find a solution that minimizes regret.
	Norman Rockwell art that ignited a lawsuit and a love story is now on public view So You Want to See The President! depicts a procession of visitors waiting to see Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The original 1943 Rockwell suite of illustrations goes on public view Thursday in D.C.
	Iowa opens door for 8th graders in high school sports, changes transfer sit-out rules DES MOINES, Iowa — The door to varsity sports may soon open a year earlier for some Iowa students, but the fine print matters. The Iowa State Board of Education has approved emergency rules tied to House File 2591, making two major changes to high school athletics in Iowa: allowing 8th graders to participate in [...]
Wednesday, June 24th, 2026
	Iowa and Illinois rank in top 20 best states to visit: Report Going on a summer road trip is always a “fun” time – but new research suggests that some places may be better than others when it comes to packing up the car and hitting the road.
	Assumption baseball defeats Solon 6-5 Watch highlights from Assumption baseball’s win over Solon 6-5.
	Tony Finau, Tom Kim added to John Deere Classic field JDC adds Tony Finau and Tom Kim to the playing field
	With a Round of 32 spot already clinched, the U.S. takes on Turkey in the World Cup Two U.S. wins and two Turkey losses already on the books mean the Americans have won this World Cup group no matter the outcome of Thursday's game. Still, the Americans say they're playing to win.
	2 major earthquakes strike northern Venezuela, near Caracas A 7.2-magnitude earthquake and a 7.5-magnitude were less than a minute apart, said the U.S. Geological Survey. The second earthquake was the largest to hit the country since 1900.
	At least 32 killed, 700 injured in 2 major earthquakes in Venezuela, says acting president A 7.2-magnitude earthquake and a 7.5-magnitude were less than a minute apart, said the U.S. Geological Survey. The second earthquake was the largest to hit the country since 1900.
	Students get hands-on health care experience at MercyOne Genesis nursing camp Education, experience and excitement are filling the minds of high school students in the MercyOne Genesis Adventures in Nursing camp.
	Take a tour of the Rock Island Arsenal with Our Quad Cities News The upcoming 250th anniversary of our nation has the Rock Island Arsenal trying to bring more people to visit. Arsenal employees gave Our Quad Cities News a tour to show what it offers. The Rock Island Arsenal is working on a verification system online to allow visitors to register and enter the island without having [...]
	Scott County conducts regional transit study Davenport, Bettendorf, Eldridge and LeClaire are conducting a regional transit study. The study is designed to find out experiences and ideas to shape the future of public transit in Scott County. The Iowa Department of Transportation is paying for the study that launched last year. The goal is to stimulate the local economy by helping [...]
	Almost Fiesta Fest will come to Muscatine riverfront The Almost Fiesta Fest will begin at 5 p.m. Thursday, June 25, in Muscatine's Riverside Park with an evening of free family-friendly fun beginning at 5 p.m. From 5-8 p.m., the riverfront will have live entertainment, local food vendors, a festive beer and wine tent, and more, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the [...]
	Crews fight structure fire in LeClaire Multiple crews fought a house fire Wednesday afternoon in LeClaire. Our Quad Cities News crew saw flames coming from the house in the 400 block of Wisconsin Street. Crews responded shortly after 4 p.m. No one was injured. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Crews from LeClaire, Princeton and Bettendorf fire departments, LeClaire [...]
	Scott County Sheriff’s Office: Missing boy found A missing Scott County boy has been found, an official with the Scott County Sheriff’s Office says.
	Pres. Trump cancels signing of housing bill; QCA reaction President Trump abruptly canceled the signing of a landmark housing bill, and the move is getting reaction from lawmakers, including some from the QCA. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644) aims to tackle the housing crisis by making it easier to buy and build new housing. The president said he wont sign [...]
	Davenport man vandalizes police department, courthouse A Davenport man on federal supervised release on a bank robbery conviction has been charged for allegedly vandalizing the Scott County Courthouse and Davenport Police station.
	Illinois expands reproductive protections and contraceptive access Illinois now has expanded reproductive protections and contraceptive access in pharmacies. Gov. JB Pritzker signed the Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act (HB 5295) into law, safeguarding patient privacy and preventing sensitive medical information from being shared out of state for those seeking reproductive healthcare in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) also issued [...]
	Getting to Know Joe Moreno Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray talks with familiar faces around the Quad Cities in the Getting to Know Podcast. Learn more about important people around our area and have a good time doing it. Each week will feature a new guest from restaurant owners, to area leaders, to Our Quad Cities News Staff. In this episode [...]
	Getting to Know Redrick Terry Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray talks with familiar faces around the Quad Cities in the Getting to Know Podcast. Learn more about important people around our area and have a good time doing it. Each week will feature a new guest from restaurant owners, to area leaders, to Our Quad Cities News Staff. In this episode [...]
	Iowa Farmers Union president says uncertainty clouds potential Iran crop market Iowa Farmers Union President Aaron Lehman said the potential relief may be coming too late for many farmers facing low prices, high costs and uncertainty about whether a new market would materialize.
	Friends Of MLK Celebrate Completion of MLK Park Mural Project The mural captures moments of time in Davenport, including the first Black student graduating after segregation ended and the first Black-owned business opening in the city.
	Retirements, hirings and other Davenport schools personnel news from May 26 See the personnel items from the May 26 agenda of the Davenport Community School District.
	Strong team bond propels Easton Valley girls golf team to 3 state titles A strong team bond lead Easton Valley to its third state title.
	Frustration grows among those displaced by Muscatine evacuation Dozens of apartment units and businesses remain evacuated along East 2nd Street following a partial wall collapse, leaving many residents struggling to find housing and other assistance.
	Illinois leads nation in tornadoes this year as state record is broken Illinois has already seen 200 recorded tornadoes in 2026, which breaks the previous state record of 142 set in 2024. The national record in one year is 244 in Texas.
	Dixon looks ahead with new bridge, planned riverfront development Dixon leaders say a new pedestrian bridge and future riverfront development are helping shape the city's next chapter.
	Parkview Apartments, Moline to receive loan from State of Illinois Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs on Tuesday unveiled a new community investment program - including a project in Moline - designed to build affordable housing, help nonprofits, and generate returns for the state, according to a news release. Parkview Apartments in Moline, one of five projects in the program, will receive a $1.4 million loan to [...]
	Here’s what communities can do when data centers arrive How can communities with no prior experience navigate these mega-sized industrial facilities driven by the rapid buildout of cloud computing and artificial intelligence?
	Stoneware Fest returns to Monmouth with dozens of vendors The free event will be held on Saturday, June 27, at the Stoneware Museum of Monmouth.
	Illinois breaks state tornado record, leads nation in twisters this year Illinois has already seen 200 recorded tornadoes in 2026, which breaks the previous state record of 142 set in 2024. The national record in one year is 244 in Texas.
	Rivermont Collegiate to pilot AI program this fall Rivermont Collegiate will pilot a new AI program this fall with a camp open free to families on July 6 to 10.
	Pritzker signs bill protecting medical records for abortion patients in Illinois The Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act, which takes effect July 1, 2027, requires the separation of information about abortion services or diagnoses of gender dysphoria from a patient’s digital medical records.
	Chance for storms this evening We are keeping watch on our radar for a potential for severe thunderstorms this afternoon. A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for most of the Northeastern counties of our area until 10pm tonight.
	New mural honors Davenport's Black history A new public mural was unveiled to honor Davenport's Black history. Friends of MLK hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony. This honorary piece of work was done by nationally-recognized artist Cbabi Bayoc. The mural is located in MLK Park on Brady St. The speakers highlighted the artwork of Black history during the 19th and early-20th centuries. [...]
	Celebrate America's birthday at the Firecracker Run Lace up your running shoes and celebrate America's birthday with fun for all ages! Joe Moreno joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the Firecracker Run. For more information, click here.
	Scott County Sheriff's Department seeks public's help in locating missing teen Scott County Sheriff's Department seeks public's help in locating missing teen.
	Miller-Meeks calls on Trump to sign bipartisan housing bill Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks urged President Trump to sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act despite his threat to veto it to get support for the SAVE Act.
	5th annual Stoneware Fest returns with more than 70 vendors The free event will be held on Saturday, June 27, at the Stoneware Museum of Monmouth. It's got free admission and parking.
	Downtown Davenport unveils new brand, highlights $68M in planned investment The nonprofit Downtown Davenport Partnership says the new brand is more than a logo or flag. It's something all downtown residents and businesses can identify under.
	Resignations, hirings from United Township School District in June See the following personnel items from the June 8 agenda of the United Township Board of Education in East Moline.
	Sheriff: 14-year-old boy reported missing out of Scott County Officials said Jeremiah Owens was last seen around 5 p.m. on Monday, June 22, leaving his home near 160th Street and 90th Avenue in rural Scott County.
	Where the world is traveling this summer Where the world is traveling this summerSummer has a way of inspiring more plans than any single season can hold. But this year, the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day lasts 106 days—the maximum possible and a calendar quirk that won’t repeat until 2037—and travelers are taking full advantage. According to Fora Travel’s internal advisor booking data, bookings are coming in at nearly double last summer’s pace, with both domestic and international trips showing year-over-year growth. Regardless of where they’re headed, travelers are often coming with specific experiences in mind, and they’re willing to invest more to get what they want, whether that’s attending a major sporting event or being among the first aboard a new cruise ship.Below, Fora’s Summer Trend Report takes a closer look at where travelers are headed this summer, what’s driving those decisions, and what it all means for your next trip.International travel: Favorite regions with a twist Despite challenges like flight prices, travelers are ready to break out their passports for the right experience, according to Fora’s internal booking data. The desire for a classic European summer trip remains particularly strong, with Europe claiming seven out of 10 spots on this year’s list of most-booked countries. The most-booked European countries for summer 2026: Italy France United Kingdom Spain Greece Portugal Ireland Within those countries, classic destinations like Rome (the most-booked international city for summer 2026) and the Amalfi Coast (the top-booked region in the Mediterranean) are still in high demand, but at the same time, Fora booking trends suggest more travelers are gravitating toward places with cooler climates and less foot traffic.Travelers are going deeper in the Mediterranean This summer’s highest booking volume is concentrated around two stalwarts—the Amalfi Coast and French Riviera—but we’re also seeing spikes in pockets of the region that had previously been considered more under-the-radar for Americans. Bodrum, on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, is seeing the most growth in the region, up 307% year over year, and a handful of towns on Italy’s western coast are showing some of the Mediterranean’s steepest climbs.Three Italian towns showing big spikes for summer 2026:Portofino: 262% increase year over year Amalfi: 143% increase year over year Praiano: 113% increase year over year Danny Phung // Shutterrstock Canada is having a breakout summerCanada’s reputation for unspoiled natural landscapes and major cities appears to be resonating with many travelers this summer. Add in a global “Heated Rivalry” obsession that has yet to abate since the show’s premiere last fall, plus the nostalgic pull of regal hotels like the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and it starts to make sense that Canada has finally cracked Fora’s top 10 most-booked international countries.Bookings in the country are up 119% year over year, and that growth isn’t concentrated in one city or one story. Vancouver, Toronto and Banff are all up more than 100% year over year.The cities with the fastest year-over-year booking growth:Québec City: 400% increase year over year Richmond, B.C.: 279% increase year over year Ottawa: 208% increase year over year Travelers are also staying longer: average trip lengths to Montreal have doubled from five to 10 days, Toronto from six to nine days, and Richmond from 11 to 15 days. Cool-climate destinations are surging, especially in Northern Europe One of the clearest signals in Fora’s summer booking data is the popularity of coolcations, or trips defined by cool temperatures, dramatic scenery, and relative crowd-avoidance. Nordic cities like Oslo and Helsinki offer some of Europe’s longest summer days, thriving food and design scenes, and a pace of travel that tends to feel more relaxed than the peak-season Mediterranean crowds. Top European coolcation destinations by booking growth: Oslo: 154% increase year over year Helsinki: 124% increase year over year Stockholm: 90% increase year over year Copenhagen: 78% increase year over year Domestic US travel: Going beyond the beachU.S. domestic bookings have grown this summer, with travelers favoring states and cities that offer a robust mix of experiences and can handle high capacities of travelers.The five most-booked U.S. states for summer 2026:New York Florida California Texas Hawai‘i The three most-booked U.S. cities for summer 2026: New York City Las Vegas ChicagoNew York City, Las Vegas, and Chicago are defying the narratives that once shadowed them. New York—questioned as a post-COVID-19 pandemic destination—is firmly back, buoyed by new hotel openings, a stacked cultural calendar, and the added pull of hosting the FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium. Las Vegas is proving critics and headlines wrong, largely owing to weekend trips and headline concerts. Chicago, meanwhile, is shaking off years of mixed press to reassert itself as one of America’s great summer cities thanks to its lakefront beaches, vibrant festivals, and lauded food scene.Bookings are up across the Midwest and New England, and travelers are staying longer Multiple Midwest states saw bookings increase more than 100% year over year, and both Kansas and Missouri have seen average trip lengths roughly double this summer. The story behind the surge is largely about two things: parks and events. Michigan’s growth centers on Mackinac Island and Traverse City, a pair of iconic Great Lakes summer destinations that have drawn visitors for generations. South Dakota and North Dakota are rising together, driven by trips to the Black Hills, the Badlands, and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Missouri gets a lift from Kansas City’s status as a FIFA World Cup host city, while Ohio is pulling in families from across the region with Cedar Point amusement park, Great Wolf Lodge, and a packed summer events calendar.The five fastest-growing Midwest states for summer 2026:South Dakota Michigan North Dakota Missouri Ohio In New England, New Hampshire is showing a similar shift, with the average trip length jumping from four days to 16 alongside a booking count that’s nearly doubled, too. Most of that growth is concentrated in the scenic White Mountains region, known for its scenic hiking trails and the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa. Paul D. Lemke // Shutterstock Long weekends are largely skewing toward character-driven cities and nature escapesHoliday weekends are a useful bellwether for where summer travel is heading, concentrating demand and revealing breakthrough destinations for the season.Memorial Day weekendSummer’s unofficial kickoff was the highest booking period so far for Disney hub Lake Buena Vista, Florida, which saw 152% growth in year-over-year bookings for MDW, with Disney's Pop Century Resort, Walt Disney World Swan, and Disney's Coronado Springs Resort as the brand’s top three hotels for summer 2026.Several other coastal destinations put up triple-digit booking numbers, including Portland, Maine, where the strength of new hotel openings and the city’s impressive restaurant scene are likely contributing factors. (In fact, the city’s popularity has grown to the point where housing stock that might once have gone to long-term residents is increasingly being converted into vacation rentals—a sign of just how much demand the city is absorbing. Out west, Bozeman, Montana, is up 450% year over year. The rise tracks with the cultural spotlight “Yellowstone” and its spinoffs have put on the region, as well as the opening of high-profile resorts in nearby Big Sky (One&Only Moonlight Basin, Montage Big Sky, Gravity Haus Big Sky), which have given the area a more polished infrastructure than it had just a few years ago. Memorial Day standouts:Hilton Head, S.C.: 350% increase year over year Kiawah Island, S.C.: 150% increase year over year Portland, Maine: 166% increase year over year Bozeman, Montana: 450% increase year over year Fourth of July weekendThe map here looks broader. Texas is among the fastest-growing destinations for the weekend, driven in large part by interest in Houston (for a FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match) and San Antonio (for its resorts and RiverWalk). Maine’s Bar Harbor and Portland represent two of the largest single-weekend spikes in the country.Fourth of July standouts:Portland, Maine: 900% increase year over year San Antonio: 475% increase year over year Houston: 231% increase year over year Washington: 195% increase year over year Bar Harbor, Maine: 100% increase year over yearSeveral cities are seeing a World Cup upswing While the full picture is still taking shape, early signals from June data indicate that Houston isn’t the only city seeing increased bookings around FIFA World Cup matches, which are scheduled across the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer. Philadelphia is seeing some of the largest single-event spikes. Bookings during the June 14 Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador match weekend are up 20 times year over year. The Loews Philadelphia—16 minutes from Lincoln Financial Field—accounts for the majority of bookings between June 13 and 15. In Los Angeles, bookings around the U.S. vs. Paraguay match are up four times year over year, the highest total volume of any U.S. World Cup city so far.To date, the five most traveled-for World Cup matches are:France vs. Senegal (June 16 in New York/New Jersey) United States vs. Paraguay (June 12 in Los Angeles) Final with Teams TBD (July 19 in New York/New Jersey) United States vs. Australia (June 19 in Seattle) Ghana vs. Panama (June 17 in Toronto) Cruise: New ships, new priorities Summer cruise bookings are up 144% year over year. The growth is broad, but it’s being led by segments that signal a shift in who is choosing to sail and what they’re looking for when they do. Travelers want sailings that go further, and they're willing to pay for them The popularity of expedition cruises (up 168% year over year) is a sign that more travelers are choosing trips that give them access to smaller or less-visited destinations and the opportunity to spend time in nature.The three most-booked cruise lines for expedition cruises:National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions HX Expeditions Quark Expeditions Atlas Ocean Voyages is poised to be a standout as travelers are taking advantage of early-access reservations for the Atlas Adventurer’s inaugural season in 2028. Ultraluxury launches are expanding the audience for cruising Travelers who might not have otherwise prioritized a cruise are finding their interest piqued by the novelty of new vessels. Part of the appeal is simply being first—first to sleep in the cabin, first to try the restaurants, first to post from the top deck before anyone else has. And this summer, luxury travelers have the chance to be first on a whole new category of high-end cruises.This is the inaugural summer for the Four Seasons Yacht Collection and the Orient Express Corinthian, with the latter debuting at the Cannes Film Festival. Three years after its maiden voyage, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s fleet (Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara) has become a top-growing cruise line with bookings up 363% year over year.Notable cruise lines for summer 2026:The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: 363% increase year over year Azamara: 333% increase year over year Crystal Cruises: 327% increase year over year The big pictureThis summer’s booking data reveals a traveler who has thought carefully about what they want and is acting on it. The typical beach options aren’t off the list, but they are seeing competition from emerging destinations like Bodrum and Bozeman that offer a distinctive, less well-trodden take on summer vacations. On the cruise front, a similar sentiment is reflected in the popularity of new ships (often smaller vessels) and fresh expedition itineraries that provide access to remote coastlines and ports that would otherwise be hard to reach. The common thread isn't a single destination or travel style but decisions made with specificity and intentionality. And with 106 days to work with, there’s plenty of summer left for travelers to get exactly what they want.MethodologyThis report draws on Fora booking data comparing Summer 2025 (mid-May through mid-September 2025) to Summer 2026 (mid-May through mid-September 2026) for bookings created prior to May 15, 2026. This story was produced by Fora Travel and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Countdown to the Classic: KWQC to preview John Deere Classic in streaming show KWQC is getting ready for the John Deere Classic. Join Sports Director Joey Donia, Chief Meteorologist Erik Maitland, William Ingalls, and more at 6:30 p.m. next Tuesday, June 30.
	Quad Cities area libraries receive state funding as part of $27 million program Libraries across the Quad Cities region are receiving state funding through a $27 million Illinois library investment program.
	Davenport man accused of damaging courthouse, police station windows A Davenport man faces felony criminal mischief charges after police say he threw rocks through windows at the Scott County Courthouse and police station.
	Scott County Sheriff’s Office asks for help finding missing boy The Scott County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help finding a missing boy.
	Resignations, hirings and other personnel news from East Moline School District The following personnel items are from the May 18 agenda of the East Moline District 37 Board of Education. The School Board met at the Administration Building.
	Kewanee agrees to amend city code, pay $42k to resolve water shutoff lawsuit Kewanee will pay $42,000 in damages to five mobile home residents and change city codes to settle a lawsuit alleging the city illegally shut off residents' water.
	Scott County Sheriff's Department seeks missing 14 year old The Scott County Sheriff's Department is asking for the public’s help to find a missing teen. Jeremiah Owens, 14, was last seen on June 22nd at about 5 p.m. leaving his residence near the area of 160th St and 90th Ave in rural Scott County. Jeremiah is about 5’3” and weights about 115 lbs. He [...]
	Driver tells deputies rollover caused by deer in roadway A driver was cited for failure to maintain control after rolling a Chevrolet Malibu into a ditch in Mount Pleasant.
	Miller-Meeks hopeful about passing bipartisan housing act President Donald Trump was expected to sign the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a bipartisan housing affordability bill, today but canceled the signing over his push for Congress to pass the SAVE America Act. “Today’s Housing News Conference and Signing is hereby cancelled until such time as we pass the desperately needed SAVE AMERICA [...]
	The G700 leap: How Jeff Bezos is redefining speed for the modern billionaire The G700 leap: How Jeff Bezos is redefining speed for the modern billionaireUltra-high-net-worth individuals and corporate leaders are adopting ultra-long-range jets like the Gulfstream G700 to collapse geographic distance and reclaim productive hours in global operations. Jeff Bezos' acquisition of a G700 via Poplar Glen LLC exemplifies this strategic shift, treating aircraft not as luxury but as operational necessity.BlackJet, a private jet card program operator, outlined the benefits of utilizing ultra-long-range jets to compress travel distance, reduce fatigue, and gain back time. BlackJet Compressing Distance, Reclaiming ProductivityThe financial justification for acquiring business tools of this magnitude rests entirely on operational efficiency. Modern enterprise requires rapid intercontinental presence, and traditional transoceanic flight profiles enforce an artificial ceiling on executive output.Time zone fragmentation across global operations creates scheduling inefficiencies that compress executive productivity. Advancing propulsion engineering means corporate flight departments can directly reclaim lost productive hours. The platform utilizes twin Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, each generating 18,250 pounds of thrust, driving the airframe to a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935, while achieving a 12% improvement on thrust-to-weight ratio compared with last-gen equivalents, and 5% better fuel efficiency.This capability compresses a standard 12-hour intercontinental flight profile by nearly an hour compared to legacy platforms. A management team overseeing diverse global holdings in any organization stands to benefit from that compression, as it unlocks dozens of salvaged operating hours every quarter. Capital allocation decisions can occur in real time on the ground rather than be deferred by terminal airspace congestion.The practical advantage becomes clear in real-world deployments across Asia, Europe, and North America. Standard intercontinental commercial travel structurally degrades executive output through transit delays and time-zone fragmentation.However, an analysis of corporate aviation published in the Journal of Air Transport Management found that the strategic utilization of private aircraft directly mitigates travel-induced fatigue and emotional exhaustion. By eliminating the multiday recovery buffers traditionally required for global portfolio reviews, organizations collapse travel cycles and reclaim those days for headquarters-based strategic work.Similarly, time-sensitive capital deployment decisions—opportunities that require in-person due diligence and board approval within days rather than weeks—become executable. Executives can conduct site assessments in London, return to New York for investor meetings, and authorize deployment the same week.This compression transforms private aviation from administrative convenience into a competitive accelerant, enabling organizations to move faster than competitors constrained by commercial flight schedules.How Cabin Design Preserves Executive PerformanceCompressing flight duration yields minimal economic advantage if the executive arrives too fatigued to negotiate complex deals. Extended exposure to low-pressure environments, dry recycled oxygen, and erratic time shifts degrades cognitive performance and compounds physical fatigue.The corporate layout of Bezos' platform addresses this biological wear through advanced interior environmental controls. The cabin design optimizes physical recovery, implementing features that support rapid physiological adaptation.The cabin achieves a record-low altitude of 2,840 feet while cruising at 41,000 feet, drastically mitigating physical strain. A plasma ionization system continuously neutralizes pathogens and freshens interior oxygen. A specialized circadian lighting matrix simulates precise regional dawns and dusks to systematically neutralize jet lag.These environmental factors operate within a cabin measuring 56 feet and 11 inches in length, configured into five discrete living zones. The layout provides a complete forward ultragalley, a conference space, and an isolated rear stateroom featuring a queen-length bed and an en-suite private shower. This complete compartmentalization allows executives to step directly from a 7,750-nautical-mile international leg straight into high-stakes negotiations without requiring a standard hotel recovery buffer.Why Ultra-Long-Range Jets Become Strategic AssetsThe shift toward ultra-long-range assets reflects a permanent evolution in corporate asset utilization strategy. Enterprise operations are no longer confined by regional boundaries, demanding an infrastructure that can support immediate, flexible, and nonstop international deployment.Organizations that treat travel purely as an administrative overhead expense inevitably fall behind competitors that view global mobility as a force multiplier. This modern approach to aviation highlights that the ultimate luxury for a billionaire is not material ostentation.True luxury is the systemic conquest of geographic distance and human fatigue.This story was produced by BlackJet and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why courts are seeing more disputes over shared homes Why courts are seeing more disputes over shared homesRecord-high home prices have forced a shift in how buyers enter the real estate market. To afford a standard down payment, unmarried partners and platonic friends routinely pool their cash.The financial strategy works perfectly on paper. But signing a joint mortgage without the built-in asset protection of a legal marriage leaves these buyers completely exposed. When living situations change, co-owners frequently end up deadlocked. As a result, civil courts now face a growing wave of lawsuits from buyers fighting over how to divide or sell their shared homes.Underwood Law, a California-based partition action specialist, broke down the rise in co-ownership among unmarried couples or friends and explained the best strategies for entering into a homebuying agreement. Underwood Law The Data Behind the Co-Ownership BoomOne National Association of Realtors study published earlier in 2026 sheds light on the uptick in disputes over shared ownership. While the top-level discussion in the report covers how single women now make up 25% of first-time buyers, second only to married couples, there are two other pieces of information related to unmarried couples and buyers in platonic relationships that are important to understand when looking at the modern home market.Eleven percent of the people who bought homes for the first time in 2025 were couples who are not married, while 4% were roommates with no romantic link. Forty years ago, just 4% of first-time buyers were unmarried couples, and 0% were just friends.This makes for a total of 15% of people who entered into homebuying agreements last year doing so in a state of co-ownership not governed by the well-established legislation that comes with marriage. This is causing a legal strain, however; shared owners who fall out over a decision to sell their property are increasingly turning to partition actions to settle disputes.Couples buying outside of wedlock and friends investing in property to share often do not realize that costly court proceedings can result when a disagreement arises. It is generally advisable to seek mediation before going any further, although knowing that a partition action may be used to force a sale of the property in the event of a shared-ownership impasse is reassuring.The Financial Math of Buying Over RentingDespite the growing threat of courtroom disputes, the incentive for unmarried buyers to bypass the rental market comes down to basic math.Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that 20% of counties saw rent increases between 2020 and 2024, with a median monthly payment of $1,413. Given that the same dataset showed median household costs for owner-occupied properties were static at $1,963 over the same period, the upsides of buying over renting are obvious. The figure for homeowners includes other associated costs, such as taxes and utility payments, while the rental figure does not.In other words, there’s a strong incentive for couples and friendship groups to pool their resources and buy a place if that’s an option. Renting feels like spending money without seeing any return on that capital, but rushing into shared homes has its own repercussions.Drafting a Co-Ownership Exit StrategyOwners of shared homes, whether unmarried couples or cohabiting platonic companions, must ensure they establish the rules and expectations for this arrangement as part of the purchase process. While demanding a formal contract with a romantic partner or close friend may seem transactional, relationship dynamics and financial priorities inevitably shift over time. Having a formal shared ownership agreement in place, ideally drafted and overseen by a legal professional, makes a later partition action far less likely.To do this effectively, buyers must first determine how they will hold the property title. Structuring the purchase as a "Joint Tenancy" grants both partners an equal share with the right of survivorship, meaning the property automatically transfers to the surviving owner if one passes away. Conversely, "Tenants in Common" allows for unequal ownership splits—such as a 70/30 division based on down payment contributions—but lacks survivorship rights, meaning a deceased partner's share passes to their designated heirs rather than the co-owner.The specifics of the agreement can vary, but the general contents will cover aspects such as what happens if one party wants to sell but the other doesn’t, and how that sale would be handled, including everything down to the property's valuation.Committing to an agreement when buying shared homes together with a partner or friend is a logical response to the reality of rising disputes and partition actions. As macroeconomic conditions push more buyers into shared mortgages, implementing a proactive legal framework ensures that a strategic financial decision today does not turn into a drawn-out courtroom dispute tomorrow.This story was produced by Underwood Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Meta plans to release AI-powered prediction market app, documents show The company is building an app separate from Facebook and Instagram where people can wager on the outcome of real-world events, using "play money."
	10 underrated weekend road trips under 4 hours from America's biggest cities, and the ones to skip 10 underrated weekend road trips under 4 hours from America's biggest cities, and the ones to skipNot every summer getaway this year requires a flight. For most Americans, the best weekend trips are within reach with nothing more than a tank of gas.The difference between a trip you’ll rave about and one you’ll regret comes down to knowing which location is actually worth the drive. To help you plan the perfect summer trip, PeopleWin has put together a list of the best road trip locations — and the places not worth a stop — within driving distance of 10 of the largest metro areas across the United States.New York CityGo: Hudson Valley, New YorkThe stretch from Cold Spring to Rhinebeck has everything a city dweller could want on a summer weekend away. River views, bookshops, farm stands, and hiking options that don’t require permits booked six weeks in advance are just a few of the highlights. Ideally, go midweek if you can, since weekend traffic northbound of the Taconic can be a nightmare.Skip: The HamptonsThis well-known destination is gorgeous, but in July, the typical 2-hour drive can easily turn into 4.5 hours due to heavy traffic. Besides, the beach will still be there in September.ChicagoGo: Door County, WisconsinCherries, kayaking, fish boils, and a coastline that is reminiscent of a Norwegian fjord make this Midwest destination a standout. The peninsula is worth the drive at just about 3.5 hours away, but be sure to book lodging months in advance if you’re going in July, as the crowds can get intense.Skip: Lake Geneva, WisconsinLake Geneva is fine for a day, but it often draws the same Chicago crowd you were trying to escape in the city. The summer weekend pricing isn’t fun, either.Los AngelesGo: Ojai, CaliforniaOjai is a well-kept secret, a small arts town tucked into a mountain valley about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles. It runs a full 10-15 degrees cooler than the coast in the summer, making it a great way to escape the heat. Additionally, the famed lavender farms, hiking, and downtown art gallery scene provide a much-needed slow weekend away from the city.Skip: Palm Springs, CaliforniaPalm Springs in July averages 108 degrees, which should tell you everything you need to know. The pools may be great, but the rest of your trip would be pure survival and looking for shade. Opt to return in October or November when things begin to cool down.HoustonGo: Fredericksburg, TexasRoughly 3 hours away from Houston is Hill Country’s flagship town: Fredericksburg. This town punches well above its weight by offering some serious wine trails, charming wildflower-season peach stands, and a main street that’s walkable without being too crowded. Given its smaller size, fewer people can make it seem busier, but the traffic here is nothing compared to Houston.Skip: Galveston, TexasSummer heat plus murky Gulf water, all on top of beach traffic, is a tough selling point when compared to Fredericksburg. Galveston is a top-tier town in other seasons, but a lesser choice for summer.AtlantaGo: Chattanooga, TennesseeChattanooga, roughly 2 hours from Atlanta, has quietly become one of the best small cities in the South. With an excellent food scene, waterfront views, and world-class climbing at nearby Sand Rock, all on top of an outstanding downtown, it’s an underrated summer vacation destination.Skip: Savannah, GeorgiaSavannah is undoubtedly a beautiful city, but a drive of 3.5 or 4 hours is a stretch for a weekend summer trip. Additionally, July is one of the most brutal months for heat in Savannah.BostonGo: Portland, MainePortland has evolved into one of the best food cities in all of New England. And, at only 2 hours driving distance from Boston, it’s a must-visit destination. The Old Port neighborhood, lobster rolls, craft beer scene, and access to Acadia just 2 hours north make it an obvious choice for a summer escape.Skip: Cape Cod, MassachusettsSummer on the Cape is renowned, but it also features peak traffic, exorbitant prices, and crowds similar to the Hamptons. Sandwich and Chatham are charming to be sure but are best visited at other points in the year.Washington, DCGo: Harpers Ferry, West VirginiaAt a measly 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C., Harpers Ferry is where the Shenandoah meets the Potomac. It’s also where Civil War history, whitewater rafting, and surprisingly good hiking trails coexist. For these reasons, it’s one of the most underrated day or overnight trips across the whole mid-Atlantic.Skip: Ocean City, MarylandOcean City features a beloved boardwalk, but a summer Friday departure from crowded D.C. will cost you over 2 hours that you’ll never get back.SeattleGo: Leavenworth, WashingtonThe famed Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth, located just 2.5 hours from Seattle, boasts hiking, river rafting, and mountain scenery that will leave you in awe. Summer wildflower hikes in the Enchantments area are renowned for being among the best in the state, and more people tend to go in the wintertime to experience the Christmas decorations, meaning you don’t need to deal with as many crowds.Skip: Cannon Beach, OregonCannon Beach is gorgeous, but it’s around 3 hours away. The summer fog and coastal crowds make it a consistent hit-or-miss experience. Fortunately, the famed Haystack Rock will be there at any other time of the year.DenverGo: Crested Butte, ColoradoCrested Butte is a notable 4 hours away from Denver, but its wildflower season, from mid-July through early August, makes the drive more than worth it. Fields of lupine, columbine, and Indian paintbrush at elevation will leave you with many picturesque moments. The town is small and uncrowded by Colorado standards and boasts many mountain biking trails for those who are a little more adventurous.Skip: Breckenridge, ColoradoBreck is fine in the summer, but it’s mainly a ski-town tourism machine that doesn’t slow down in the off-season. You’ll essentially be paying peak prices for an overall average experience.PhoenixGo: Prescott, ArizonaAt 1.5 hours from Phoenix and 5,300 feet above sea level, Prescott sits nicely above the desert heat. Summer highs typically only reach the mid-80s compared to Phoenix’s 110 average, making it an excellent and close destination to cool off. The historic Whiskey Row, gorgeous Granite Dells hiking, and scenic pine trees even make it feel like a different state, a major selling point.Skip: Sedona, ArizonaSedona is stunning in its own right, but summer weekend traffic on SR-179 through the red rocks can be a nightmare. Mid-summer temperatures will still frequently climb above 95 degrees, providing only minimal relief from the sweltering heat of the city.The best trip is the one you’ll actually takeThe 3-hour radius is the sweet spot for weekend travel for a reason. It’s close enough to leave on a Friday after work while also being far enough to feel like a true vacation from the everyday. Whether it’s a new elevation, fewer crowds, or simply better food, consider one of the above road trip options for a new and exciting summer travel experience.This story was produced by PeopleWin and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to automate expense management with AI How to automate expense management with AIAI expense management replaces manual receipt entry, approvals and reconciliation with machine learning and OCR—automating the routine work that typically consumes hours of finance team time each month.The technology is mature and widely adopted. Companies using AI-powered expense tools report faster close cycles, fewer policy violations, and better real-time visibility into where money is going. Below, Ramp describes how it works, why it matters, and how to implement it in your organization.Key takeawaysAI expense management uses artificial intelligence to automate tasks like expense tracking, receipt capture and reporting.The technology automatically captures receipt data, categorizes expenses, and enforces your spending policy in real time.AI in expense management can significantly reduce time spent on expense reports and approvals, leading to major cost savings and faster financial closes.Advanced algorithms also monitor spending to detect anomalies and flag potential fraud, protecting your business from financial loss.Ramp’s AI-powered platform automates the entire expense management process with intelligent receipt matching and proactive policy controls, freeing up your finance team for higher-value work.What is AI expense management?AI expense management uses artificial intelligence to automatically handle business expense tracking, receipt capture, categorization, and reporting. It replaces manual data entry with machine learning and optical character recognition (OCR) technology, so you spend less time on paperwork and more time on work that matters.Traditional expense management relies on employees to submit paper receipts or manually input data into spreadsheets. AI-powered systems scan receipts, extract key information, and organize everything instantly, reducing errors and speeding up workflows.Here's what AI expense management does at its core:Expense tracking automation: AI reads receipts and matches them to transactionsPolicy enforcement: Flags violations in real time as employees spendFraud detection: Algorithms identify duplicates and suspicious activitySpend optimization: Analyzes data to uncover savings opportunitiesFinance teams, business owners and operations leads benefit most from this technology. You can save hours of administrative work while gaining real-time visibility into company spending patterns and how you're tracking against projected budgets.Why manual expense management falls shortManual expense management drains time, introduces errors, and lets policy violations slip through the cracks. Your finance team burns hours each month chasing receipts, fixing miscoded entries, and reconciling spreadsheets that should have been replaced years ago.The problems show up everywhere:Employees lose receipts or submit expense reports weeks after the factFinance teams manually review every expense report line by linePolicy enforcement varies wildly across departments and approversDuplicate or fraudulent claims are nearly impossible to spot without automationThese pain points don't just slow you down—they cost real money in wasted hours, missed savings, and out-of-policy spend. That's where AI changes the game.How AI expense management worksAI now powers everything from auto-receipt capture to intelligent spend recommendations. Here's how AI expense management processes an expense from submission to reconciliation:1. Receipt capture and OCR data extractionOCR technology scans receipts and extracts data without manual input. Optical character recognition reads text from images, PDFs or forwarded emails and turns it into structured data your system can use.Just snap a photo of a receipt with your phone, and the system pulls details like date, amount, and vendor, then enters them into an expense report. Mobile apps analyze your spending in real time, so reports are more accurate and get done faster.2. Machine learning expense categorizationOnce expense data is captured, machine learning assigns the right category—meals, travel, supplies—based on vendor data and your team's past behavior. These algorithms improve over time, getting more accurate the more they learn from your data.You can customize business expense categories and rules to fit your needs, maintaining consistency and adapting as your policies evolve.3. Real-time policy enforcement and complianceAI checks expenses against your expense policy at the moment of purchase or submission—not weeks later in a manual review. For example, it can flag an out-of-policy hotel rate, an unapproved vendor, or a meal that exceeds your per diem before the expense ever reaches an approver.This immediate feedback keeps spending in line and frees you from reviewing every transaction by hand.4. AI analysis for expense claim fraud detectionAI monitors expense data to detect anomalies and potential expense fraud. Anomaly detection means the system learns what normal spending looks like for your business, then flags transactions that don't fit the pattern—duplicate receipts, unusual amounts, or repeat submissions from the same employee.You can trust the system to catch issues before they escalate, protecting your business from financial losses.5. Automated approvals and reimbursementsAI streamlines approvals by automating expense reporting and routing. Compliant expenses move through predefined approval workflows automatically, while only exceptions land in a reviewer's queue.This exception-based review model speeds up reimbursements and keeps employees from waiting weeks to get paid back.6. AI-powered reconciliation and accounting automationAI matches each expense to its corresponding corporate card transaction and syncs the data directly to your accounting system. Instead of reconciling credit card transactions line by line, you get a clean, coded ready-to-close set of books.This is where AI-powered reconciliation really pays off—your month-end close gets shorter, your audit trails get cleaner, and your team stops doing work that software should handle.Key benefits of AI-powered expense managementAI expense management delivers measurable improvements across your finance operations. Here are the outcomes you can expect:Faster expense report processing: AI eliminates manual data entry, so expense reports process in minutes instead of days. Employees snap a photo, the system handles the rest, and approvers see only what actually needs their attention.Improved accuracy and policy compliance: Automated categorization and real-time policy checks reduce errors and out-of policy spend. You won't have to worry about misplaced figures or rogue purchases slipping past approval.Real-time spend visibility and analytics: Finance teams see spend data as it happens—not weeks later when the damage is done. AI tools for budgeting and spend analysis give you live dashboards, so you can spot trends, catch overruns early, and make better decisions about where the money goes.Reduced administrative burden for finance teams: Accountants spend less time chasing receipts and reviewing reports, freeing them for higher-value work like analysis, forecasting, and partnering with the business. Your team finally gets to do the work they were hired for.Accelerated month-end close: Because expenses are categorized and reconciled continuously, closing the books takes hours instead of days. AI keeps your data clean throughout the month, so close week stops being a fire drill.Better employee experience and adoptionA simple mobile expense tracker encourages employees to submit expenses on time. When the process is easy, compliance goes up, complaints go down, and reimbursements happen faster.Essential features of AI expense management softwareWhen evaluating AI spend management software, certain features separate the best platforms from basic tools. Here's how AI-powered software stacks up against traditional options: Ramp Here are the must-have features to look for:Smart receipt scanning and document captureLook for AI document capture that supports mobile scanning, email forwarding and PDF uploads. Employees should be able to submit a receipt from anywhere, in any format.Automated expense categorizationMachine learning should assign GL codes and categories without user input, learning from corrections to improve over time.Customizable spend policy rulesSet rules by category, amount, department or project—and let AI enforce them automatically. The more granular your controls, the less manual review you'll need.Integrated corporate cardsCards linked directly to your expense software auto-populate transactions for matching, eliminating duplicate data entry and reconciliation headaches.Real-time expense tracking and reportingLive dashboards and spend trends help you see what's happening as it happens. You shouldn't have to wait for a month-end report to know where your budget stands.ERP and accounting software integrationsData should sync directly to systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero and Sage. Native integrations beat manual exports every time.Mobile expense tracker appEmployees should be able to capture receipts and submit expenses from their phones in seconds. If the mobile experience is clunky, adoption suffers.Multi-currency and global supportIf your business operates internationally, your expense platform needs to handle foreign transactions, exchange rates and cross-border compliance automatically.ROI of AI-powered expense managementThe return on AI expense management shows up in several categories, even if the exact figures vary by company. Instead of focusing on a single dollar amount, think about ROI across these dimensions:Time savings: Hours reclaimed from manual entry, review and reconciliation workError reduction: Fewer reimbursement corrections, miscoded entrie, and audit issuesPolicy compliance: Less out-of-policy spend slipping through — Ramp's data shows out-of-policy spend event rates declined 62% over two years among customers using real-time enforcementEmployee productivity: Staff focused on their actual jobs instead of expense adminAI also provides enhanced visibility into spending patterns through real-time insights that show exactly where money is going and which departments are over budget. Finance leaders can spot anomalies immediately rather than discovering them weeks later, enabling smarter budget management and uncovering cost-saving opportunities.The compliance benefits add another layer of value. AI systems flag policy violations in real time, making audit preparation smoother and freeing your team for strategic financial planning.How to implement AI expense managementRolling out AI expense management works best when you follow a clear, step-by-step plan. Here's a six-step roadmap to guide your implementation:Audit your current expense processes. Identify the pain points, bottlenecks and manual steps slowing down your workflow — you can't fix what you haven't measured.Define requirements and success metrics. Determine which features you actually need and how you'll measure success—processing time, error rates, compliance, or all of the above.Evaluate AI spend management software vendors. Compare artificial intelligence spend management options against your requirements, including features, integrations, pricing and user reviews.Plan integrations and data migration. Map out connections to your ERP, accounting software and corporate cards before you flip the switch — surprises here cause the most rollout delays.Train employees and roll out. Provide training on the mobile app and submission process, and start with a pilot group before going company-wide.Monitor performance and optimize. Track adoption, processing times and compliance rates, then adjust your policies and configurations as you learn what works.By following these steps, you'll integrate AI expense management smoothly and create a system that delivers measurable results from day one.AI expense management for accountants and travel teamsTwo groups get outsized value from AI expense management: accountants who own the books and travel teams who manage trip spend. Here's how AI helps each one.AI-powered expense management for accountantsAI dramatically reduces reconciliation work for accountants by auto-coding expenses, matching them to card transactions, and syncing everything to your accounting system. Instead of spending hours chasing receipts and fixing miscoded entries, you get a clean general ledger that's ready for review.When audit time rolls around, AI-generated audit trails make documentation easy. Every transaction has a receipt, a category, an approver and a clear policy check—all stored in one place.AI travel management and budget tracking featuresAI improves travel expense processing by integrating with booking tools, enforcing per diems automatically, and tracking mileage without manual logs. Travel teams can set spend limits by trip, traveler or destination and trust the system to flag exceptions before they become problems.Real-time budget tracking means travel managers always know where the company stands against its travel budget, so there are no end-of-quarter surprises.Future trends in AI expense managementWe've only scratched the surface of what AI can do for spend management. Here are the trends shaping the next wave of innovation:Conversational AI: Employees will submit expenses through chat or voice assistants, making the process even faster and more naturalPredictive analytics: AI will forecast spend and flag budget risks before they happen, not after the money's already out the doorProcurement integration: Expense data will connect directly to vendor management and purchasing systems, giving finance a unified view across the entire spend lifecycleThe future of AI expense management promises smarter, more personalized solutions that will transform how you handle spending, compliance and financial operations.This story was produced by Ramp and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The life of queer activist Pauli Murray has been set to music The Quire of Eastern Iowa recently debuted the first Iowa performance of ‘Sincerely Yours, Pauli Murray." Board chair Sydney Houlton and Artistic Director Elena Cressy share her story and more about the inclusive LGBTQ community choir.
	The first 30 days home: A day-by-day guide for families caring for a parent after hospital discharge The first 30 days home: A day-by-day guide for families caring for a parent after hospital dischargeThe car ride home from the hospital is a major relief after a lengthy stay. But really, it’s just the beginning.The return home is the start of the most dangerous month in an older adult’s recovery. About 20% of adverse events happen in the first three weeks of discharge from the hospital, and half of patients experience a medical error during that time, according to data published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Many families helping an aging parent through this transition period are operating on instinct. Discharge paperwork is hefty, instructions are often rushed, and no one hands you a comprehensive playbook for how to manage the time. It’s difficult to know where to turn and what to do.Drawing on discharge planning guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, care transitions research from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and American Geriatrics Society guidelines, QMedic has assembled a tool for families navigating these new challenges. Continue on for a day-by-day guide organized around four key phases, each with a practical checklist for when to call the doctor and when to head back to the emergency room.Phase 1: The setup phase (Day 0-2) — before you leave the hospitalThe first phase starts before your parents even get in the car. The decisions being made at the discharge desk about medications, appointments, and who’s responsible for what during recovery will set the trajectory of everything to come.Medication reconciliationMedication and treatment distribution are where postdischarge recoveries can go sideways. At discharge, older adults receive, on average, two new medications. However, within three days of returning home, many have reverted to their prehospitalization routines and have abandoned prescribed changes.Families should obtain a complete, reconciled medication list from the discharging nurse or pharmacist, including which drugs are new, which were stopped, and which doses changed.The American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria identifies a specific list of medications that are potentially inappropriate for adults 65 and older. Use this as a guide to ask whether any flagged drugs are on the discharge list.Checklist:Obtain a complete written medication list before leaving.Confirm which pre-hospital medications were stopped or changed.Ask about dangerous drug interactions and Beers Criteria–flagged medications.Fill all new prescriptions before or immediately upon arriving home.Call the doctor if medications are unclear, a prescription can't be filled, or a known allergy is listed on the discharge paperwork.Confirming follow-up appointmentsOnly about a third (35.6%) of discharged patients have a primary care follow-up visit within two weeks of leaving the hospital, despite the fact that follow-up visits are associated with meaningfully lower 30-day readmission rates. Outpatient follow-up within 30 days has been associated with a 21% reduction in 30-day all-cause readmissions for heart failure and stroke patients, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Posted Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discharge planning rules require hospitals to share follow-up appointment information with patients at discharge and with outpatient providers responsible for the patient's ongoing care. Make a note not to leave without a calendar.Checklist:Confirm a primary care provider appointment is scheduled within seven days.Confirm any specialist follow-up visits (cardiologist, pulmonologist, etc.).Know the name and direct phone number of the discharging physician.Request that discharge summary be sent to the primary care provider before the appointment.Home environment reviewFalls are one of the most common and dangerous postdischarge complications. Fall risk factors after leaving the hospital include mobility decline, cognitive impairment, and using assistive devices. Up to 40% of older adults fall within six months of discharge, with half of those falls resulting in injury. Spend the hours before your parent arrives checking the house for fall risks.Checklist:Remove trip hazards (loose rugs, cords, clutter in walking paths).Install or confirm the reliability of bathroom grab bars and nonslip mats.Ensure adequate lighting in hallways and stairwells.Move the patient's sleeping area to the main floor if stairs are a concern.Confirm any durable medical equipment (walker, shower chair, hospital bed) is in place before arriving home.Family communication planThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services updated its conditions of participation interpretive guidelines in 2025, which now emphasize that hospitals must document active caregiver participation in discharge planning. It also notes that plans must reflect patient values and their postdischarge priorities.Families should establish clear communication and a decision-making tree before leaving the hospital. Identify a primary contact, designate decision-makers, and set a schedule for check-ins between siblings or other family members who may be involved in care.Checklist:Designate one family member as the primary point of contact for care providers.Create a shared document or group text for updates.Establish a daily check-in schedule for the first two weeks.Confirm who has healthcare proxy or power of attorney documentation on file.Phase 2: The stabilization phase (Days 3–14)With all the logistics in place, the work caring for your parents during recovery will begin to shift into a rhythm. Getting into a routine will involve daily monitoring, ensuring medication adherence, and encouraging gentle movement to help them stay active. Evidence from the Society of Hospital Medicine shows that structured daily monitoring and early support are key drivers in reduced readmissions.Daily monitoring and medication adherenceFor patients discharged after heart failure, weight should be monitored daily. A gain of 2 to 3 pounds in 24 hours or 5 pounds in a week may indicate fluid retention and should trigger a call to the doctor. All treatments will have their own warning signs, so speak with your parent’s doctor to learn what to look out for.Checklist:Track medications using a daily pill organizer or medication log.Weigh your parent at the same time each morning (for cardiac or heart failure patients).Note any changes in appetite, energy level, or confusion.Check and log vital signs (blood pressure, pulse oximetry if equipment is available) if advised by the care team.Mobility and daily function check-insPhysical deterioration during hospitalization can accelerate quickly. Patients lose muscle strength rapidly, and the goal is to restore baseline function through safe, gradual activity. Families should note whether the individual can perform basic activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, going to the bathroom, and walking short distances safely.Checklist:Facilitate short supervised walks if medically cleared.Monitor for shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain with activity.Confirm home health aide or physical therapy visits, if ordered.Note any new or worsening confusion (may indicate medication side effect, urinary tract infection, or delirium).First postdischarge follow-up visitPostdischarge follow-up should occur within seven days for high-risk patients, including those at risk of heart failure, pneumonia, or acute myocardial infarction. They should be scheduled for no later than 14 days for all others. The follow-up visit is a critical opportunity to ensure medications are correct, review the discharge summary, identify early signs of deterioration, and coordinate referrals.Checklist:Bring the full discharge paperwork and medication list to the appointment.Ask the medical professional to review all new and changed medications.Request updated lab work if recommended by the discharging team.Ask specifically if there are any symptoms to be watched out for based on hospitalization cause.Phase 3: The highest-risk window (Days 7–15)Phase 3 is when 61% of heart failure readmissions, 63% of pneumonia readmissions, and 68% of heart attack readmissions happen, according to research published in PLOS Medicine. It’s also the time to be the most aware of potential red flags. You shouldn’t aim to do more, but rather watch closely and know key thresholds in advance.Condition-specific warning signsDepending on your parent’s condition, there are a few key warning signs to watch out for:Heart failure: Sudden weight gain, worsening shortness of breath at rest or lying flat, swelling in legs or ankles, decreased urinationPneumonia: Fever, worsening cough or chest pain, increased confusion, shortness of breath not improving or getting worseHeart attack: Chest pain or pressure, arm or jaw pain, sudden extreme fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breathAll conditions: New or worsening confusion or disorientation (possible delirium sign), inability to take medications as prescribed, inability to keep fluids downWhen to call the doctor vs. go to the emergency roomFamilies sometimes hesitate to get medical help as they navigate their family member’s new norm. This hesitation costs critical time. Here is a list of who to call and when:Call the doctor or nurse line if:Fever below 103 F with no difficulty breathingMild increase in pain at a surgical or wound siteMedication question or side effect concern (nausea, dizziness, fatigue)New mild swelling in one limbConfusion that is new but the patient is still responsive and communicating Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if:Chest pain, pressure, or squeezingSudden severe shortness of breath or inability to speak in full sentencesLoss of consciousness or unresponsivenessSudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, or inability to speak (stroke signs)High fever (103 F+) with altered mental statusSuspected medication overdose or dangerous drug interactionChecklist:Post emergency contact numbers on the refrigerator (primary care doctor, specialist, after-hours line, 911).Confirm the patient's health insurance card and photo ID are accessible.Know the name of the nearest emergency department.Phase 4: The transition phase (Days 16–30)The fourth and final phase to cover is the transition phase. If the highest-risk window passes without any incident, the final two weeks should be focused on converting initial crisis management into a sustainable routine.Ongoing care coordinationResearch shows that the most complex care transition interventions, those combining in-hospital preparation, structured post-discharge follow-up, and patient navigation, are associated with the greatest sustained reduction in readmissions.Checklist:Confirm any referrals to home health, cardiac rehab, or pulmonary rehab are scheduled.Reassess whether additional community support services are needed (meal delivery services like Meals on Wheels, transportation, adult day programs).Determine whether a community health worker or patient navigator is available through the individual’s insurer or local area agency on aging.Support services evaluationThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requires that hospitals provide lists of Medicare-participating post-acute care providers, including home health agencies, to patients and families. Families should evaluate whether current informal care arrangements are sustainable through the full 30-day window, as caregiver burnout is a real risk during this period.Checklist:Review whether home health visits are authorized and being used.Ask the primary care doctor if the parent still meets criteria for any homebound services.Contact the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) for local resource navigation.Long-term plan adjustmentBy the time Day 30 comes around, families should hold a deliberate "care conference." This can either be informal and held at the follow-up visit or as a scheduled family conversation. The goal is to reassess the parent's functional trajectory and whether the current level of support is appropriate. This is also the moment to revisit advance care planning documents and to ensure all providers have a current copy of the individual preferences.Checklist:Confirm all specialist referrals are completed or scheduled.Review whether any functional decline has occurred compared to the prehospitalization baseline.Update the family communication plan if circumstances have changed.Ask the doctor what the goal is for the next 90 days of care.The "30-Day Dashboard" conceptWhen looking at the four phases of care as a comprehensive and preplanned 30-day dashboard, it’s easier to undertake the huge task of caring for an aging parent. A reconciled medication list, setting a follow-up appointment, logging weight changes, keeping an eye out for warning signs, and having honest conversations about what comes next goes a long way. None of this requires extensive medical training, just structure.The families who fare best during recovery aren’t the ones who worry about every detail the most. It is the ones who know what to watch out for, when to call a doctor, and who’s taking responsibility for what. The first 30 days back home will always carry risks, but they don’t have to come with guesswork too.This story was produced by QMedic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Office workers say they are more productive now, thanks to AI Office workers say they are more productive now, thanks to AISeven in 10 office workers are more productive now thanks to AI — but not all are using it effectively.A poll of 2,000 employees found 88% have embraced the technology in their jobs — including research tools, writing or content generation, and data analysis tools — with52% convinced they complete tasks faster because of AI and 25% claiming it has transformed their role.However, there might be room for improvement — of those surveyed who use AI, only 34% have fully integrated the tech into their workflow, with the rest mainly keeping tasks involving AI separate.And of those who have fully integrated the tech into what they do at work, almost all (83%) claim it has boosted their output.In contrast, of those who haven’t fully done this, only 20% said it made them more productive — a difference of 63%.Fyxer, which commissioned the research as part of The AI Productivity Trap Report, believes this shows a “growing AI productivity gap” and describes those who fully embraced the tech in their workflow as “AI superworkers.”More than six in 10 workers (61%) describe their workload as high or very high, while a further 34% said it is moderate but still demanding.Meanwhile, 28% of employees said reading emails takes up a significant portion of their time, with 26% citing writing and replying as another major drain.One in five also spend time responding to customer queries, while 18% highlight researching information online as a key task.A further 16% said managing to-do lists consumes valuable time, while 15% point to data entry and 14% to analyzing or summarizing information.More than one in eight workers is also tied up preparing reports (13%) or tracking project progress (13%), with 11% frequently scheduling meetings.Additional tasks, such as organizing files (11% and processing expenses (10%), further contribute to daily admin workloads.Around 1 in 10 employees are also drafting documents (9%) or creating presentations (9%), while 8%regularly take meeting notes.Smaller but still time-consuming tasks include compiling performance metrics (7%, proofreading documents (7%) and creating templates (6%).In terms of usage, 38% of employees said they use AI tools multiple times a day, while 22% use them multiple times a week.However, 12% admitted they never use AI at all, highlighting a clear divide in adoption across the workforce.It emerged that Millennials (46%) have most fully embraced the technology — ahead of Gen Z (43%) and Gen X (38%).While more men (77%) than women (61%) think AI has increased their productivity — a difference of 16%.The study also found 63% of managers and senior leaders have personally selected which AI tools they use — compared to 42% of entry-level workers.And this might be important because 35% of those who selected their own AI tools said the technology transformed their jobs.However, just 18% of those who simply use the tools chosen for them by their employer feel the same way.Carried out through OnePoll, the study found that reading and writing emails are the most time-consuming activities among those polled.This story was produced by Fyxer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	From the NBA Finals to presidential elections: What’s trading on the highest-dollar prediction markets From the NBA Finals to presidential elections: What’s trading on the highest-dollar prediction marketsPrediction markets have transformed major world events into something closer to live entertainment. Major sporting events draw intense action. Elections now trade like championship games. Federal Reserve meetings generate minute-by-minute speculation. Inflation reports, crypto crashes, geopolitical conflicts, and recession fears all become markets where traders can instantly buy positions on possible outcomes.Few platforms capture this shift better than Kalshi. Over the past several years, the regulated prediction exchange has turned headlines into tradable contracts, attracting everyone from political junkies and sports bettors to retail traders and internet speculators. Social media has only accelerated the trend, with users increasingly discussing probabilities, odds, and positions in real time as events unfold.The biggest markets in Kalshi history reveal something deeper than simple trading volume. As Bodog reports below, they serve as a snapshot of what modern audiences are becoming collectively obsessed with.Explaining Kalshi and Prediction MarketsKalshi is a federally regulated prediction market exchange that allows users to trade contracts tied to real-world outcomes. Rather than betting on point spreads or casino games, traders speculate on questions like whether inflation will rise, whether a political candidate will win an election, or whether the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates.Each market typically resolves to either “Yes” or “No,” with contract prices fluctuating based on perceived probability. If a trader buys a contract at 40 cents and the event occurs, the contract settles at $1.00.Unlike traditional sportsbooks, prediction markets function more like financial instruments than gambling products. Kalshi operates under the regulation of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which places it somewhere between investing, trading, and speculative entertainment.That hybrid identity is a major reason prediction markets have exploded in popularity. Modern internet culture increasingly encourages people to “trade the news,” and prediction contracts effectively turn attention itself into a tradable asset. Politics, economics, sports, and viral moments all become opportunities for speculation.The 10 Biggest Kalshi Markets EverThe top 10 largest Kalshi markets reflect the current state at the time of writing. Records often fall as Kalshi and contract trading grow in popularity.10. 2025 NBA Champion - $130,267,765Last year, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers played in the 2025 NBA Finals. For the first time since 2016, the Finals went the distance, with the Thunder taking Game 7 by a score of 103-91 for its first title since relocating. The growing popularity of sports-related contracts, coupled with an exciting playoff series, led to a then-record number of trades during the NBA Finals.9. Popular Vote Margin of Victory: 2024 Presidential Election - $134,863,999When Donald Trump won the 2016 Presidential Election, he lost the popular vote. This time around, Trump won the popular vote by 1.5% over Kamala Harris. There were 18 markets in total under the Popular Vote Margin of Victory, with many leaning toward Harris. However, Trump’s historic victory paid out for anyone trading 1%-1.99% in his favor. Prior to the election, federal courts ruled that Kalshi and others could legally offer political contract trading, leading to an explosion of trading in the months leading up to the election.8. 2026 College Football Championship: Miami vs. Indiana - $142,086,661The NCAA College Football Championship game always draws heavy action, so it was no surprise that the 2026 championship game between the Miami Hurricanes and the Indiana Hoosiers drew record numbers. There were 137 markets trading on this question, with over $142 million in trading volume. One reason for this record-setting volume is that Kalshi is available in states where sports betting is not yet available. It’s likely we will see the 2027 championship game set a new high.7. Who Will Trump Nominate as Fed Chair? - $216,970,762Given that the economy was one of the key issues on which President Trump campaigned, traders showed strong interest in his potential nominee for the new Chair of the Federal Reserve. The question offered 23 different markets, including an option for President Trump. Ultimately, Trump appointed Kevin Warsh, and those choosing him profited. Interest in the future of the U.S. economy likely drove traffic to this question, particularly knowledgeable political traders.6. 2026 NCAA Championship: Michigan vs. Uconn - $284,141,129The 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship came down to the Michigan Wolverines and the UConn Huskies. Both teams played tough, but Michigan outlasted a late push by the Huskies to win their second title. The volume of trading on this game was driven by a pair of popular teams in the title game, coupled with Kalshi's nationwide expansion. Don’t be surprised to see next year’s final eclipse this mark.5. 2026 PGA Championship Winner - $333,450,801In an entry that almost came out of left field, the 2026 PGA Championship Winner powered its way to fourth place. Aaron Rai shot a 5-under 65 on the last day of the event to become the second Indian player to win a major PGA title and the first player from England to win the title since 1919. The 163 markets for this question, along with the simplicity of golf contract trading compared to sports betting, contributed to the high trading volume.4. 2026 Pro Basketball Champion - $335,653,533The 2026 NBA Playoffs concluded with the New York Knicks capturing their first NBA Championship in more than 50 years. After a dominant postseason run, the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals to end a decades-long title drought. Interest in the championship market surged throughout the playoffs, with trading volume ultimately surpassing last year's record. The combination of the Knicks’ historic championship run, the Spurs’ surprising Finals appearance, and the tongue-in-cheek “curses” of WWE Superstar Danhausen helped make this one of the most actively traded and closely followed markets of the season.3. 2026 Pro Football Championship: Seattle vs. New England - $358,758,507Super Bowl LX was played earlier this year between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. The game was a defensive showcase with neither team scoring a touchdown until the fourth quarter. Seattle proved to be just a bit better, taking the lead into the final quarter and surviving a late Patriot flurry to win their second title. The title game drew $358.7 million in trades thanks to Kalshi’s nationwide reach.2. The 2026 Master Champion - $460,271,755Who would have thought gold would have taken two of the top four spots? Rory McIlroy led or was tied for the lead throughout the entire event. He edged out Scottie Scheffler on the final day to win his second straight Masters title and sixth major overall. There were 98 markets trading on this question, and the ease of trading golf contracts compared to standard sports betting likely helped fuel the insane volume it received.1. Who Will Win the Presidential Election? (2024) - $535,948,943Two factors boosted this question’s trading volume. First, a federal court ruling allowed political contract trading, spurring a wave of late-election trades. Additionally, many viewed this election as historic, not just for the U.S. but for the world. Ultimately, traders made over $535.9 million in trades, with those siding with President Trump profiting.Why Political Markets Thrive on Prediction PlatformsPolitical markets consistently generate high trading volume because they combine all the angles that prediction markets need to thrive. They have nonstop media coverage, regular information updates, cult-like engagement from participants, and significant real-world consequences.Unlike sporting events that last a few hours, political markets unfold over months or even years. Every debate, poll release, court ruling, endorsement, and viral social media moment can move prices instantly. Many participants also believe they possess superior information or insight, which encourages even more trading activity.In many ways, political prediction markets resemble live sports betting stretched across an entire election cycle. Traders become emotionally invested while simultaneously trying to exploit market inefficiencies. That combination of confidence, emotion, and uncertainty can create enormous liquidity.The Blurring Line Between Gambling and Financial TradingPlatforms like Kalshi exist in a world shaped by meme stocks, crypto trading, fantasy sports, and commission-free retail investing. Users are increasingly interested in interacting with news, sports, and world events. They do not simply consume information. They want financial exposure to them.Prediction markets now sit somewhere between sportsbooks, stock exchanges, and internet entertainment. A trader can move from discussing inflation on social media to buying a Consumer Price Index contract within seconds. Crypto investors who believe they know where the market is trending can put their “knowledge” to work trading crypto contracts. That seamless transition helps explain why event trading feels so natural to younger internet-native audiences.The overlap with sports betting is especially significant. Many sports bettors already understand odds, probabilities, hedging, and volatility. Prediction markets simply expand those instincts beyond athletics into politics, economics, and global events.This overlap is drawing the attention of lawmakers and gambling regulators, who claim that prediction markets are simply “reimagined sports betting.”What the Biggest Kalshi Markets Reveal About Human BehaviorKalshi’s largest markets reveal a consistent pattern about human psychology. The events generating the most liquidity are usually controversial, uncertain, emotionally charged, and impossible to ignore online.People are often drawn toward volatility and conflict. Prediction markets amplify that tendency by allowing participants to financially engage with stories they are already obsessively following. The more debate, fear, uncertainty, or tribalism surrounding an event, the larger the market tends to be.Of course, this applies to sporting events. Sports fans are wildly passionate, tribal, and many times obsessed with their teams. Additionally, sports contracts add entertainment value much the same way that sports betting does.Platforms like Kalshi turn speculation into a social experience. Traders constantly discuss positions, probabilities, rumors, and narratives across social media and online communities. This leads traders to feel they are part of something greater.Traders Want Involvement in Real-World EventsThe biggest markets in Kalshi history are not random. They reflect the stories people argued about, tracked obsessively, and emotionally invested themselves in online.Elections, inflation, recession fears, crypto volatility, geopolitical crises, and sports championships all generate enormous trading activity by combining uncertainty with nonstop public attention.That may ultimately explain why prediction markets continue growing so rapidly. Modern audiences want to have a say in real-world events. They want to put their knowledge to work and, hopefully, profit from it.This story was produced by Bodog and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The best and worst cities for home flipping in 2026 The best and worst cities for home flipping in 2026Chances are, you’ve probably seen an HGTV version of home flipping: a crumbling Victorian property being transformed into a modern masterpiece with investors walking away with a six-figure check at the end of the episode. It all sounds great, but in reality, the margins are tighter, interest rates trickier, and the “easy money” idea is long gone.However, there’s still room for savvy investors. Home flipping hasn’t exactly disappeared—it has simply migrated, PropertyReach reports.As we head into the peak summer flipping season, the divide between sustainable growth markets and equity traps is wider than ever. While some metros are seeing record-breaking ROI, others are seeing investors lose big.What Makes a Metro Good for Home Flipping?Before diving into the specific cities, it’s important to understand what it means to be in a profitable market.To compare high-growth opportunities and high-risk gambles, specific pillars that define a profitable environment:Strong Population Growth: When a city is growing, it means more housing demand. The Census data shows a positive net migration because it creates a floor for demand. And this competition means a higher price and faster resale opportunities, which allow you to move your capital to the next project.The “Middle-Tier” Market: The best markets aren’t the ultra-expensive coastal mansions you see where renovation budgets spiral. Nor are they the deeply distressed rural areas. Cities with median home prices allow flippers to buy entry-level inventory and stay under the local median even after repairs.Low Days On Market (DOM): Every extra month a property sits is accumulated interest, taxes, and insurance that eat at your profit. Healthy flipping metros usually show homes selling in about 30-45 days or less.Older Housing Stock: We look for cities with homes mostly built before the 1980s. Why? Because those houses have “cosmetic obsolescence.” And by closing the gap between what a dated house vs. what a modern “Pinterest-ready” house is worth, you get buyers willing to pay premiums for move-in-ready homes.Even in a “perfect” city, one street can be high-yielding, but the next can be a total deal zone.6 Metros that Show Promise for Home FlippingBased on recent data, these markets offer the most favorable balance of entry costs, inventory age, and buyer demand.1. Pittsburgh, PAApproximate Average Home Value: $231, 500Annual Appreciation Rate: +2.9% (forecasted steady growth for 2026)Pittsburgh has one of the highest concentrations of older housing stock in the country, providing a large spread for cosmetic updates that modern buyers are looking for.2. Rochester, NYApproximate Average Home Value: $$225,000 – $240,000Annual Appreciation Rate: +7.2% (Q1 2026 YoY)Rochester has recently ranked among the top 10 metros for profits in the Northeast/Midwest due to persistent inventory shortages.3. Buffalo, NYApproximate Average Home Value: $277,500Annual Appreciation Rate: +3.65% (forecasted to remain steady)Nearly 65% of homes in this metro sold above asking price in the last year, so there’s a deep pool of eager buyers waiting for renovated inventory.4. Hartford, CTApproximate Average Home Value: $381,760Annual Appreciation Rate: +4.3%Hartford was also voted one of the "Hottest Markets" for 2026. With 63% fewer homes for sale than pre-pandemic levels, competition is fierce. Well-renovated homes sell almost immediately.5. Philadelphia, PAApproximate Average Home Value: $378,000Annual Appreciation Rate: +3.0%Philly offers a unique “hyper-local” opportunity. While this city is stable, specific ZIP codes are seeing rapid revitalization, allowing for targeted high-yield flips.6. Dallas, TXApproximate Average Home Value: $311,957Annual Appreciation Rate: +2.4%While other cities like Austin are correcting, Dallas remains a top destination for many relocators. The spread is found in the older 1950s-70s neighborhoods where young families are yearning for renovated, ready-to-move-in homes.6 Metros Where Home Flipping Is RiskyThe following cities, on the other hand, face a triple threat: high entry costs, rising carrying burdens, and a selective buyer pool.1. San Jose, CAApproximate Average Home Value: $2,030,000Annual Appreciation Rate: +0.5% (stagnating)High interest rates have made monthly payments on these prices nearly impossible for average buyers. It’s a locked market with very few transactions.2. Austin, TXApproximate Average Home Value: $500,600Annual Appreciation Rate: -5.9% (one of the steepest declines in 2026)After years of hyper-growth, Austin is currently facing an oversupply of inventory. Your flipped home might sit on the market for months, losing value.3. Miami, FLApproximate Average Home Value: $550,000 – $600,000Annual Appreciation Rate: -2.3% (South Florida average pullback)Sky-high insurance premiums and property taxes are the silent killer here, often eating 20-30% of your projected profit while you wait for permits or construction.4. Phoenix, AZApproximate Average Home Value: $450,000 – $480,000Annual Appreciation Rate: +0.2% (Near-flat growth)With more home flippers competing for the same inventory, the “as-is” purchase prices have been bid up too high to leave room for meaningful profit.5. San Francisco, CAApproximate Average Home Value: $1,350,000Annual Appreciation Rate: -2.9% (Regional West average decline)Declining sales volume with high regulatory friction means that a successful flop can be wiped out by unexpected delays or a sudden dip in buyer confidence.6. Las Vegas, NVApproximate Average Home Value: $480,000Annual Appreciation Rate: -1.0% (Slight pullback from late 2025 highs)Homes are sitting significantly longer, averaging up to 60 days on the market. With high inventory, two months of holding plus a potential price cut can quickly turn your profit into a break-even scenario.An Important Reality: Timing is EverythingThe truth is, any metro can change from a high-yield corridor to a low-margin trap within a single year. If a neighborhood gets flooded with home flippers, profit margins shrink as everyone competes for the same limited pool of buyers.Experienced investors know that success isn’t only about the city—it comes down to the hyper-local data. To find real success, you have to identify specific ZIP codes, streets, or school districts before hitting the mainstream.This is where an intensive property search tool becomes your best asset. By investigating local ownership history and neighborhood-level momentum, you can find the off-market opportunities that deliver the highest ROI. You get the below true market value and move on to your next flip.Final ThoughtsWhile national headlines might suggest volatility for home flipping, the data shows that in certain metros, like Pittsburgh and Buffalo, the opportunity for a profitable renovation is very much alive and kicking.In this new cycle, investors who win are the ones who do the most homework before the first day of demolition. Just remember that in this market, the profit is realized when you buy, not just when you sell.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Shattered windows at police station, courthouse lead to vandalism charges Arnordo Turner faces felony criminal mischief charges after allegedly throwing rocks to shatter windows at both the courthouse and police station.
	The hurricane prep step most people skip: How to make a hurricane home inventory and protect your claim The hurricane prep step most people skip: How to make a hurricane home inventory and protect your claimA home inventory is a detailed record — through photos, videos, and documentation — of your belongings and their value. It's one of the most important parts of hurricane preparation, because it's what ensures you get fully reimbursed for everything lost in a storm. Without one, you risk underestimating your losses and slowing down your homeowners insurance claim. To create one, photograph your possessions, save proof of value, and store the records somewhere safe.Water, batteries, plywood — many people stock up on these essentials during hurricane season, but they skip the home inventory list. Only 47% of homeowners have a home inventory, according to the most recent data from Triple-I/Munich Re’s 2023 Q2 Consumer Survey.Relying on your memory means you could underestimate your losses, and it could also slow down reimbursement.“An inventory will help speed up the insurance claims process,” says Tim Singnysane, director of operations for 1-800 WATER DAMAGE and Blue Kangaroo Packoutz, which offer cleaning and restoration services.In this guide, Insure.com shows you how to make a hurricane home inventory.How to build your home inventory in one hourDon't have a home inventory yet? You can put a basic one together this weekend with just your phone and dramatically strengthen a potential claim.Record a video of every room. Walk slowly, narrate as you go, and open every closet, cabinet, and drawer.Photograph high-value items up close. Capture serial numbers, brand labels, and any receipts in the same shot.Save it in two places. Upload to the cloud (e.g., Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox) and keep one more copy somewhere else, like email or an external drive.Hurricane prep checklist: Everything in one placeHere's the full hurricane home inventory and prep checklist, organized by when to do each task — before the season, when a watch is issued, and after the storm. Save or print it, then read on for the details behind each step. Insure.com How do you prepare your home for a hurricane?Preparing your home for a hurricane comes down to stopping wind from getting inside and keeping the structure intact. The biggest risks are a breached opening — like a failed garage door or window — and flying debris, so most effective prep targets those weak points. Making these mitigation upgrades reduces storm damage and can also lower your insurance premiums.Here are some ways to minimize hurricane damage to your home:Trim treesClear gutters and reinforce soffitsStrengthen the garage doorInstall impact-resistant windows and hurricane shuttersAdd hurricane anchors or straps to the roofAnchor fuel tanksOnce you make these updates, you may be eligible for hurricane mitigation credits on your premiums. For instance, Florida law requires insurers to offer discounts to homeowners who make wind mitigation upgrades. To qualify, you'll need an inspection by a licensed inspector, who completes a form that's submitted to your insurer.Strengthening your home reduces what you'll lose. Documenting it determines what you'll recover.What to photograph for a home inventoryPhotograph every room and the full exterior of your home, then capture high-value items individually. Photos are the fastest way to document your home's condition and contents before a storm — and the easiest proof to share with your insurer afterward.“I would definitely take photos and videos of each room,” Singnysane says.Here’s what to cover:ExteriorEach side of the houseRoofSoffits and guttersDecks, porches and other outdoor living spacesFencesLandscapingAccessory buildingsInteriorWide shots of each roomClose-ups of each section of each roomInside closets, cabinets and drawersGarageAtticOther storage areas, including those off-siteThen, take photos of high-value items individually. These items may include jewelry, art, electronics, tools and appliances.Record a video walkthrough as well, narrating notable items and features as you go. Video captures context a photo can't, like a room's full layout or the contents of a packed closet in one pass.What to record for high-value itemsFor high-value items, your inventory needs to identify the item and prove its value. That way, you can get its full value if it's damaged. You should also include the following in your inventory:Description of item, including make, model, purchase date, and purchase priceReceipts, warranties, and appraisalsCheck with your insurer to see what documentation they require. Some want more than one piece of evidence for certain items. For instance, a photo of your big screen TV may not be enough to establish its value. The insurance company may also want to see a receipt.For items with multiples, such as clothing, make a note of how many you have in each category, such as shoes, jeans or dresses.Kelly Nash, president of private risk management for The Baldwin Group, recommends taking photos of all important documents and then storing physical copies together in a secure box that can be easily moved to a safe location if and when a storm arrives.Where to store your inventory so the storm doesn't destroy it tooNow that you have your home inventory, you need to know where to keep it.“I would prefer you to have multiple locations,” Singnysane says.Use two or more of the following options to make sure you can access your home inventory when it’s needed:Upload to cloud storage such as Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive or Dropbox.Email a copy to yourself and save it in a clearly identified folder.Place in a fireproof and waterproof box stored at a high location in your home.Rent a safe deposit box at a bank.Keep a copy at a trusted relative’s house.Use a home inventory app such as NAIC Home Inventory, Sortly or Nest Egg.In addition to storing multiple copies of your home inventory, keep it in multiple formats. For instance, you may upload it to the cloud, keep a physical copy in a safe at your house and save an extra copy on an external hard drive at a relative’s house.How to build an emergency kit and a family planAnyone in a hurricane's reach — not just its direct path — needs both a go-bag and emergency supplies for home. Storm surge and flooding can affect areas miles from where the storm makes landfall.The go-bag should have essentials for three days, while people should be prepared for up to two weeks without power at home, Nash advises.“If you are without power for that long, how are you going to communicate?” she asks. Her recommendation is to have a solar-powered phone charger and a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio.Stock up on water — one gallon per person per day is recommended — and make sure you have enough non-perishable food, pet food, infant formula and medications to last during an extended period without electricity.The go-bag should include medications, pet food, infant formula, a change of clothes, nonperishable food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, small toys for children, and cash.What should be on your hurricane evacuation checklist?Have a go-bag packed and ready in advance.Keep a written list of emergency numbers.Identify an out-of-town contact for family members to check in with.Decide on a family meeting place if separated.Know your evacuation route in advance.Sign up for local emergency alerts and download the FEMA app and Red Cross emergency app.Have an evacuation planSometimes, extreme weather situations require residents to evacuate their homes by choice or government order. A few preparations in advance can make this process much easier.Identify evacuation zones: Before a storm, local officials will determine evacuation zones based on the likelihood that an area will flood due to the storm surge, or projected rise in sea level from a hurricane. Know what zone you live in and monitor local news to stay up to date in case you need to evacuate.Find local shelters: You should also find out where the closest public emergency shelters are located. You can check the FEMA app for a list of current shelters or text the word “SHELTER” and your ZIP code to 43362. The Red Cross website also lists currently open shelters. Different shelters have different requirements. For example, if you have a pet, make sure the shelter allows animals.Establish transportation plans: Hurricanes can result in road closures and create transit obstacles. Make sure you have an established evacuation route in mind before the storm and monitor local news during the storm for updates on road conditions.Create a family plan: Does your workplace have a disaster plan? Does your child’s school have a plan? Will they shelter in place? Disasters can strike when your family members are not with you. Find out what plans are in place for other locations.“Have an evacuation plan and knowledge of local evacuation routes and shelters,” says Christie Alderman, vice president of product innovation and development at Chubb Insurance. “Prepare medicines, important information, and phone numbers, including your insurance information, and fill your car with gas.”What to do when a hurricane watch is issuedIn the two days before a hurricane, document your home's pre-storm condition, secure your property, and protect your important documents and devices. The National Weather Service issues hurricane watches 48 hours before storm-force winds are possible, and this is your cue to prepare your property.Take new exterior and interior photos to show the condition of your home before the storm. Make sure these photos are date-stamped.Photograph any protective measures you take, such as boarded windows or sandbags — some policies require this proof.Double-check the contents of your go-bag.Strap down or remove any loose items from your yard, such as patio furniture.Fill your tub with water that can be used to flush toilets.Charge phones and other devices and download important cloud documents to local storage on your device.Move documents to a higher level of your home or keep them ready to grab if you evacuate. Write down your insurance policy number and your insurer's claims phone number, too. Nash says The Baldwin Group proactively sends this information to customers in a storm's path, but you may need to contact your insurer or find it in your online account.What to do right after a hurricane and before cleanupOnce it's safe, document the damage with photos and videos, secure your property to prevent further loss, and file your insurance claim as soon as possible — before you start any cleanup. Acting in that order protects both your safety and your claim.Take photographs and videos of everything.Secure your property to prevent further damage, such as boarding broken windows or covering the roof with a tarp. Take photos of this as well and keep your receipts.Call your insurer to file a claim.How do you file a hurricane insurance claim?Don’t wait to contact your insurer. Companies typically process claims in the order received.“You want to get into that queue as quickly as possible,” Nash says. Go ahead and file with both your wind and flood insurance carriers. They will sort out what each covers.When an adjuster comes for an inspection, walk the property with them. If you have started clean-up before, don’t throw anything away. For instance, if you rip out carpet, set it aside. The adjuster will likely want to see it. If you think the adjuster missed anything during their visit, follow up with them in writing.Finally, be cautious about signing settlement checks or cashing payments until you've confirmed the amount covers your full loss.Common home inventory mistakes that shrink your payoutThe costliest documentation mistakes share one trait — they leave you unable to prove what you owned or what it was worth. Here are the ones to watch for.Only photographing rooms or rushing through closet contents. "Open all your cabinets and drawers and slow down," Nash advises, so your video clearly shows everything you own.Not recording serial numbers for electronics and appliances.Guessing at an item's value instead of keeping receipts.Keeping only one copy of your home inventory.Failing to update your inventory after a big purchase.Cleaning up before documenting the damage.Throwing things away before the adjuster visits.An hour this weekend could pay off for yearsMost hurricane prep protects your home. A home inventory protects what's inside it, and it's the step that determines how much you actually recover when you file a claim. All it takes is your phone, a cloud folder, and an hour to walk through your house room by room, capturing what you own and what it's worth.Do it once and you've got a record that pays off for years. Just refresh it after big purchases and check it each year as hurricane season approaches. With this season already underway, the best time to start is now, before a storm is ever on the radar.Frequently Asked Questions: Hurricane PreparationWhat will your insurer ask for after a hurricane?Insurers will want to see proof of which items you owned and how much each is worth. Photographs and videos can document your possessions, but to confirm value, an insurance company may request receipts or appraisals, particularly for valuable items.Do I need serial numbers for an insurance claim?Not necessarily. A serial number is the best way to prove ownership and value, but without one, you can still file a claim using different documentation, such as a receipt.How should I store my home inventory?You should store your home inventory in a place that is both safe and accessible. Cloud storage, an external hard drive kept in a safe deposit box, or a paper version in a safe are all options. Ideally, you should have multiple copies of your inventory, each stored using a different method.What if I didn't take photos before the hurricane?You can still file a claim with your insurance company and receive reimbursement. However, your reimbursement may be lower if you can’t prove the condition of your house or the possessions you owned prior to the storm. Going back through old photos on your phone or searching for emailed receipts may help fill in some of these gaps.How long do I have to file a hurricane insurance claim?It depends on your state's laws, so check the rules where you live. In Florida, you have one year from the date of loss to file a new or reopened property insurance claim, with the clock starting on the date the hurricane made landfall, as verified by NOAA — not the day you discover the damage. If you find additional damage later, Florida gives you up to 18 months from the loss date to file a supplemental claim. Either way, the smarter move is to file as soon as it's safe rather than waiting, since hidden damage like mold or roof leaks can surface months after a storm.This story was produced by Insure.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Credit card refinancing vs. debt consolidation Credit card refinancing vs. debt consolidationIf you’re dealing with high-interest debt, debt consolidation options like credit card refinancing or debt consolidation loans may be on your radar. Both strategies can help you streamline the payoff process and potentially save you some money on interest. OneMain Financial dove deeper into the difference between credit card refinancing and debt consolidation loans so you can decide on the strategy that will work for you to repay your debt.What is credit card refinancing?Credit card refinancing is the process of transferring your existing debt to a credit card, typically with a lower interest rate. If you qualify for a lower interest rate than those you’re currently paying, you may be able to reduce your monthly payment, minimize your interest charges and pay off your debt sooner.How does credit card refinancing work?You typically refinance credit cards with a credit card that offers a low or 0% introductory or promotional annual percentage rate (APR) on balance transfers. The offer period usually lasts around 12 to 21 months, so you’ll owe little to no interest if you repay your transferred balance before the offer period ends.You apply for a credit card with an introductory offer APR on balance transfers the same way you would for any other credit card. Once your application is approved, you’ll contact the credit card company to begin the transfer process. After your old debts are paid off, you can begin making payments on your new card at the lower interest rate.Remember that when the low introductory rate expires, any balance you have left will start to accrue interest at the nonpromotional rate. A balance transfer typically also comes with a balance transfer fee, which is either a flat fee or around 3% to 5% of the transferred amount. It’s also important to note that you typically can’t transfer a credit card balance to another credit card with the same issuer. So, you’ll want to shop around to see if you qualify with another credit card company.What is debt consolidation?Debt consolidation is a way to simplify your finances by turning multiple debts into one single payment by using a new loan or credit card. As described above, credit card refinancing is one type of debt consolidation. A debt consolidation loan is another, which involves taking out a personal loan to repay existing debts.How do debt consolidation loans work?A debt consolidation loan is a type of personal loan, which is a lump sum of money you can borrow from a lender, bank or credit union to use for a variety of purposes, including refinancing your credit card debt. Loan approval will depend on several factors, like your credit history, income and loan amount.With a debt consolidation loan, you roll multiple bills into one balance, giving you a single fixed monthly payment and a fixed interest rate. A debt consolidation loan also has a set term, so you’ll know exactly when you’ll pay it off — as long as you make payments on time, every time.If you’re approved for the loan, you’ll receive the funds to repay each of your debt balances and then pay back your loan through fixed monthly payments. It’s important to note that refinancing or consolidating your current debt may result in higher total finance charges if the new interest rate is higher, or the loan term is longer. Some loans may also have an origination fee — a fee for processing the loan application — that is subtracted from your loan amount.Credit card refinancing vs. debt consolidation: Which is right for you?Choosing the right debt payoff method depends on what your budget can handle and what type of debt you have.Credit card refinancing may work if you:Qualify for a 0% introductory or promotional APR: You typically need strong credit to qualify for a low promotional APR offer on a credit card.Can pay off your debt before the promotional period ends: Once the promotional period ends, you’ll be charged the card’s regular APR on any outstanding balance. Interest charges can add up quickly, potentially offsetting the money you saved by refinancing.Won’t be tempted to make new purchases: You can generally use the credit card where you transferred your balance for other purchases. However, the low promotional APR may not apply, and you may find yourself in more debt if you’re not able to repay the new charges.A debt consolidation loan may work if you:Qualify for a personal loan with a lower interest rate than your existing debt: If you qualify for a lower interest rate than the ones you’re paying on your existing debt, you could save money on interest, depending on the length of the term.Need more time to pay off your debt: You may be able to find a debt consolidation loan with a longer term than a credit card’s promotional APR period.Want fixed monthly payments: With a fixed interest rate and set monthly payments, you’ll pay the same amount each month on a debt consolidation loan.Take control of your debt journeyCredit card refinancing and debt consolidation loans can both offer a path to becoming debt-free. Whether it's refinancing to ease the weight of high interest rates or consolidating to bring scattered debts under one roof, the best option is the one that aligns with your needs and goals.This story was produced by OneMain Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Celebrate 250 years of America at Township picnic in Moline Rock Island Township, South Rock Island Township, Moline Township, South Moline Township, Blackhawk Township, and Hampton Township are hosting an old-fashioned picnic in the park on Thursday, July 2 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Moline Township, 620 18th Street. The theme is “Celebrate 250 Years of America” and participants can enjoy free food, [...]
	Driver tells deputies she rollover caused by deer in roadway A driver was cited for failure to maintain control after rolling a Chevrolet Malibu into a ditch in Mount Pleasant.
	Ahead of new Medicaid work requirements, WV launches website and asks residents for updated info The former Department of Health and Human Resources building at One Davis Square in Charleston, W.Va. (Lexi Browning \| West Virginia Watch)With new federal Medicaid work requirements becoming effective next year, the West Virginia Department of Human Services has launched a new information website and is encouraging recipients to update their contact information with the state. “Federal law has changed, and our responsibility is to ensure West Virginians have accurate information and understand how these changes may affect them,” Christy Donohue, DoHS Commissioner of the Bureau for Medical Services, said in a statement Wednesday. “We want Medicaid members to know that DoHS is on track to implement these requirements and is working to make the process as simple as possible.” Under Pres. Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, beginning Jan. 1, 2027, people age 19 through 64 who are part of the expanded Medicaid program are required to work, train or volunteer at least 80 hours per month in order to remain eligible for the health care program. The expanded Medicaid program is available to people who make up to 138% of the federal poverty line, or about $45,540 for a family of four. As of earlier this year, West Virginia’s Medicaid expansion population included 161,184 people. There are some exceptions to the work requirements, including for pregnant people, Native Americans, and caregivers of children under 14 or disabled adults. The state has launched https://wvmedicaidhelp.org/ to answer frequently asked questions about the new “community engagement” requirements. According to the Department, the state is enhancing its eligibility systems to automate verification and eligibility processes whenever possible. When available, electronic data sources will be used to automatically verify information, reducing the need for members to submit additional documentation, the state said in the news release. The state is asking Medicaid recipients to ensure their mailing address, email address and phone number is up to date. The department also asks people to read any correspondence about Medicaid eligibility the state sends, watch for additional correspondence between now and Jan. 1, and to visit WVMedicaidHelp.org for updates. Courtesy of West Virginia Watch
	250 years of lawn care: How America grew its greatest obsession 250 years of lawn care: How America grew its greatest obsessionThat ordinary patch of green grass outside your window has a long and crazy history. Americans pour water on it, buy expensive machines to chop it down, and repeat that every single week — absolute madness done without question.It took 250 years of sweat and technological leaps to turn a simple crop into a $189 billion national obsession. As the U.S. marks its 250th birthday on July 4, LawnStarter is tracing how the American lawn evolved from a privilege of the founding elite to blanketing 40 million acres — from Jefferson's scythe-wielding crews to robot mowers that map your yard by GPS.Key takeawaysGeorge Washington and Thomas Jefferson pioneered the American lawn, borrowing the look of English aristocratic estates.Post–World War II suburbia made lawns mainstream, with power mower sales reaching 4.2 million by 1958.Today, approximately 54 million Americans mow their lawns every week, and the landscape services industry employs around 1.3 million people.The Founding Fathers' Lawns (1770s–1800s)Here's what the American lawn was in 1776: nothing. It didn’t exist. Colonists had livestock to raise, crops to grow, and a war to win. They didn’t care about crabgrass or a watering schedule. Grass mowed for looks was a luxury nobody could afford. But George Washington and Thomas Jefferson had other plans. Both were obsessed with the grand lawns of English country estates and set to recreate them in America, even importing grass seed and design ideas from overseas.Jefferson rolled out sweeping grass panels at Monticello, while Washington reshaped the grounds at Mount Vernon into broad, mown “pleasure grounds.”A short lawn sent a message: You had the land, labor, and money to burn on land you couldn't eat. It was a status symbol for the early American elite.The Mower Changes Everything (1830–1870s) Dille & McGuire Lawn Mowers Before 1830, you needed livestock to keep the grass down. Sheep and goats were the original lawn mowers. For the average homeowner back then, the scythe and the sheep went out the window thanks to an English mill engineer. In 1830, Edwin Beard Budding watched a machine trim wool cloth in Gloucestershire and had a lightbulb moment: It could do the very same thing to grass. And so, the idea of a lawn mower was born.His contraption was a beast. It featured heavy cast-iron parts, required someone to push it, and was intended to replace the scythe on sports grounds and large gardens.Legends say Budding worried that his neighbors would consider him a madman for pushing a loud, heavy machine in the yard, so he tested his initial prototype under the cover of darkness.Two of the first machines went to the London Zoo and Oxford University. The design sailed across the Atlantic, and American tinkerers went to work. In 1868, Connecticut resident Amariah Hills scored the first United States patent for a reel mower.By 1870, an Indiana machinist named Elwood McGuire built a lightweight push mower that anyone could handle. It stole the show at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, and it changed lawn care forever.Then, a year later, in 1871, the first lawn sprinkler was patented. A dry spell was no match for a rubber hose and a little water pressure.Lawns Go Mainstream (1880s–1930s)By the 1880s, lawns were a major trend. Magazines ran how-to columns on the perfect yard, and the USDA and state institutions, including the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, had begun formal grass trials to see which grasses could survive in the US.Golfers wanted perfect playing surfaces, so by the 1920s, the United States Golf Association was funding turfgrass research right alongside the USDA. Homes near the fairway became status symbols, and the golf course lawn lodged itself in the American imagination.The first golf course in the U.S. was Oakhurst Links, built in 1884, on Russell Montague’s Sulphur Springs property in West Virginia and hosted the earliest known golf tournament in 1888 with the oldest known golf prize medal in America.In 1888, St. Andrew’s Golf Club opened in New York and became the oldest golf club in continuous existence. Bettmann // Getty Images These golf courses turned lush grass into a national aspiration, and it became the new gold standard.The great park movement was rewriting the rules of public space. Sprawling green lawns that had once belonged only to English nobility were now showing up as public parks with open grass and shade trees for everyone to enjoy.By the early 1900s, Cooperative Extension agents were knocking on doors with the latest turf science in hand. It was the original lawn care advice network.The Suburban Lawn Boom (1940s–1960s)When World War II wrapped up, the boys came home, traded their dog tags for rotary mowers, and headed straight to the suburbs. The GI Bill made homeownership a reality for many American families.Developers like William Levitt laid down sod as fast as they framed the houses. A lawn now came standard, just like a front door.Before the war, factories pumped out around 60,000 power rotary mowers a year. In 1946, Americans bought roughly 140,000 lawn mowers. Just five years later, annual sales had exploded to about 1.2 million, and by 1958, people bought 4.2 million mowers a year. In barely a decade, the mower went from rarity to a garage staple right next to the family station wagon.Historian Ted Steinberg of Case Western Reserve University named it "lawn democracy." In a 2007 CBS News feature, he said:"First of all, the lawn mower provided the conditions for lawn democracy," he said. "A society where just about everyone could afford to purchase a machine to cut the grass."It was the birth of the Saturday morning chore, and it became the ultimate suburban rite of passage: handing the pull-cord to your teenager and telling them to earn their keep.Unfortunately, a yard also comes with relentless peer pressure to keep it crisp and well-maintained. If you let the weeds take over, you’ll become the person everyone talks about. The perfect lawn, framed by that iconic white picket fence, became a badge of the American Dream.Those pressures are still there today, even if they have evolved. Tyler Wilson, owner at Copperhead Property Maintenance in Lutz, Florida, sees the modern version of this.“Clients in communities like Cheval and Stonebrier don’t just want green grass anymore; they want precise edges, clean mowing patterns, and that golf-course finish,” Wilson says. “The pride is less about raw greenness and more about visible craftsmanship that signals someone professional is taking care of the property.”Science, Seed, and Sod (1970s–1980s)In the 1970s and '80s, researchers shifted their focus from golf course grass to home lawns and began breeding grass varieties tuned to different regions and climates.You had choices: Roll out instant sod like a green carpet or toss some seed and wait. Add some synthetic fertilizers and weed killers, and a pristine yard felt like a sure thing. A whole service industry sprang up to do the work for you, turning feeding, weeding, and seasonal cleanups from a luxury into a suburban routine.By the end of the 20th century, the gas-guzzling mowers and the synthetic fertilizers and pesticides started drawing side-eyes from scientists and neighbors alike. America's love affair with grass clearly came with a bill, and it was getting harder to ignore.The Green Revolution (2000s–2010s)The 21st century kicked turf science into overdrive. Breeders rolled out grasses that shrugged off drought and disease. It was a direct answer to the West, where keeping a green lawn in Phoenix or Las Vegas had always meant fighting the desert itself.Those early magazine columns moved online, and new platforms started matching homeowners with pros at the tap of a button. "Lawn care" was now a full-blown industry with a name of its own.NASA dropped a piece of data that stopped homeowners in their tracks. By surface area, lawns became the single largest irrigated crop in the United States. It covers three times more ground than irrigated corn. Americans are pouring water on a crop you can’t even eat.Smelly, noisy lawn equipment came under scrutiny. Researchers found that strapping on a commercial gas leaf blower for one hour pumps out the same smog-forming pollution as driving a car 1,100 miles. One hour of blowing leaves equals a drive from Los Angeles to Denver.Water limits turned from mild suggestions into strict laws. Steve Rice, owner of Lawn Kings in Southern California, says this best:“I’ve watched clients move away from traditional thirsty turf because maintaining that ‘perfect green’ is no longer realistic year-round without heavy water use. That’s why drought-tolerant landscaping and high-quality synthetic grass have become more common recommendations, especially in areas where watering restrictions are tightening each summer.”Over on the East Coast, in New Jersey, Gaetano Virone runs Environmental Designers Irrigation and promotes smart, precision‑zoned irrigation systems.“Modern droughts have pushed me toward recommending precision-zoned systems paired with soil sensors over broad traditional layouts that struggle under limits,” Virone says.As the environmental costs came into focus, alternatives climbed from fringe to mainstream: Electric mowers, battery-powered tools, organic fertilizers, native plants, clover lawns, and water-wise xeriscaping started to claim a slice of the American yard.The Smart Lawn Era (2020s and Beyond) UlfsFotoart // Shutterstock You thought having a camera on your doorbell was peak suburban living. We’re in the era where high-tech computers and AI run your yard.Robot mowers have graduated from gimmick to one of the fastest-growing areas of the market. The global robot mower market will hit $2.74 billion in 2026 and is on track to reach $5.32 billion by 2031, according to Mordor Intelligence.These little machines use GPS and AI to map your property, dodge your kid’s soccer ball, and read the weather. You just sit on the couch and let the robot do the yard work.You might assume professional landscapers are worried about losing their jobs to a yard Roomba. Well, actually no.Wilson deals with big commercial and high-end residential clients, and he sleeps just fine at night. To him, the machines are missing a personal touch. “The detail work, mechanical edging, string trimming around fence posts and landscaped beds, blowing clippings off hard surfaces — that’s where the real value is, and no autonomous unit handles that finishing work reliably yet,” Wilson says.He’s right. A robot driving in circles doesn’t give you that sharp, country club look.Wilson says the real mind-blowing tech in this smart lawn care era is hiding in your sprinkler box.“The biggest technological game-changer for our daily operations has been smart Wi-Fi controllers, specifically the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller,” he says. “By automatically adjusting watering schedules based on local Florida weather data, these devices prevent overwatering and protect lawn health.”What Does the Future Hold?Take a step back, and you realize the sheer scale of this obsession. The landscape services industry reached $188.8 billion in 2025 and employs 1.3 million people across 635,000 businesses. All that muscle and money exist just to keep the grass mowed and manicured.The definition of a great yard is changing. The old-school grass monoculture is giving way to a more pragmatic approach. Homeowners ask about clover and native plants. Does that mean the traditional turf is dead? Not a chance.Tim DiAngelis, owner of Lawn Care Plus in Boston, sees this hybrid lawn approach working in New England, stating: “I won’t pretend it’s replacing traditional lawn work, but it’s a real conversation now, especially on commercial properties where low-maintenance matters,” DiAngelis says. “Where I’ve seen it work best is when we blend it into the overall landscape design rather than treating it as a full lawn replacement. Clients who go all-in on alternatives without a plan usually call us back frustrated.”Looking ahead 20 years, Rice also expects homeowners to prioritize the survival and function of their lawn over looking like an artificial carpet.“I expect the standard American front yard will be a hybrid of solutions like native or low-water plants combined with permeable hardscaping and selective turf areas, designed more for usability and climate resilience than uniform grass perfection,” he says.Andrew Day, owner of Advanced Quality Lawn in Akron, Ohio, expects to see homeowners switch to smart, intentional landscaping.“In 20 years, I think the standard front yard will still have turf, but less ‘decorative carpet’ and more functional lawn supported by healthier soil, better grass varieties, tree and shrub care, and targeted pest control,” he says. “The winners will be yards designed to survive local conditions, not yards forced to look perfect every week.” Keep Your Own Piece of Lawn History Looking Its BestNow you know the history of grass in America. You know the science. You also know the feeling of spending your entire Saturday sweating over a temperamental edger while your neighbor's robot mower hums quietly in the background.You could hire a lawn care service to take grass cutting off your to-do list, or you could go back to where it all started and rent a working herd of goats from commercial grazing companies to clear out heavy brush and weeds on your property.Chomping grass instead of cutting grass is a retro move, but it gets the job done.This story was produced by LawnStarter and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What are the required elevator inspection types and timelines in the US and Canada? What are the required elevator inspection types and timelines in the US and Canada?Regular elevator inspection and testing ensure elevators remain functional and safe to use daily. These inspections must be performed by qualified personnel. Noncompliance can result in hefty penalties and forced shutdowns. Requirements vary depending on the elevator type, jurisdiction, and testing time frame.Standards and regulations establish the requirements, but most requirements stem from ASME A17.1 in the U.S. and CSA B44 in Canada. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Canadian Standards Association have harmonized their respective codes, ASME A17.1 and CSA B44, collectively known as the Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, resulting in similar standards.Since the codes get updated periodically, a static checklist is not sufficient to keep elevators in check. It’s important to develop an effective system to ensure compliance, and working with trusted third-party agencies enables unbiased improvements that protect your facility. In this article, ATIS breaks down the inspection and testing requirements you need to know.Key TakeawaysElevator code compliance can be complex, thanks to the varying regulations and standards. The most important points to remember include:The required elevator inspection types in the U.S. and Canada generally include CAT 1, CAT 3, and CAT 5, performed annually, every three years, and every five years, respectively.States, local jurisdictions, and provinces may have additional inspection and testing requirements, including periodic inspections, acceptance inspections, alteration inspections, and test witnessing.Only certified professionals can perform inspections and testing.Noncompliance can result in accidents, elevator shutdowns, penalties, rejected insurance claims, and personal liability for facility owners.What Are the Different Categories of Elevator Inspections?Elevator inspection categories include CAT 1, CAT 3, and CAT 5, as defined by the Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators. Category requirements are based on the elevator components’ function, wear patterns, and safety impact.Category tests typically can’t substitute for one another. For instance, although CAT 5 is more intensive and covers CAT 1 requirements, you must still perform CAT 1 testing in the same year. You may be allowed to perform similar tests simultaneously. ATIS 1. CAT 1: Annual TestingCAT 1 is required every 12 months. The inspection and testing requirements focus on active safety devices during normal operations, which deteriorate from regular use. These elevator components come with predictable yearly wear cycles.For example, CAT 1 guidance involves testing door interlocks that cycle thousands of times, governor mechanisms that accumulate operational hours, and electrical safety switches that are subject to environmental factors.These safety devices must always function correctly each time an elevator operates. The testing involved does not subject the elevator to extreme stress, unlike the more rigorous CAT 5 testing.Examples of inspection requirements usually include:Car machine rooms.Elevator car top.Elevator pit.Outside hoistway.Braking system.Firefighters' emergency.The elevator type determines which parts require testing. For instance, hydraulic elevators have unique components compared to electric models.2. CAT 3: 3-Year TestingCAT 3 is a category specific to hydraulic elevators, which must be tested every three years. A hydraulic elevator is an old elevator type that uses municipal water pressure or an on-site water system.Modern hydraulic elevators use oil and are subject to CAT 1 and CAT 5 testing. Testing water hydraulic elevators has different requirements as they present unique challenges due to a lack of design safety factors.These elevators are increasingly rare. CAT 3 typically requires testing the:Unexposed portions of pistons: Piston rods need to be thoroughly cleaned and examined for wear and corrosion. They should also be replaced if the diameter at any point is less than the root diameter of the threads.Pressure vessels: Pressure vessels need to be cleaned and checked for conformance with requirements. They also need to undergo hydrostatic tests at high percentages of working pressure.3. CAT 5: 5-Year TestingCAT 5 requires inspection and testing every five years. These intensive tests focus on an elevator’s braking and life-safety systems under full load conditions. They can involve testing:Car and counterweight safeties with rated load.Governors at rated speed.Brakes under maximum stress.Oil buffers with actual impact.CAT 5 aims to ensure elevator performance during worst-case scenarios. Components must function as designed during emergencies. These components are susceptible to gradual mechanical wear over extended periods, which may not always be apparent in annual, no-load testing.Since CAT 5 testing is destructive or highly invasive, it’s unrealistic to perform them annually. The tests also wear the system, as it requires loading the elevator to its maximum capacity.Other Required InspectionsFederal, state, local governments, and provinces have widely adopted the Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators. You’ll find CAT testing requirements across jurisdictions, with some referring directly to ASME A17.1. Local governments may adopt more stringent requirements. Beyond category testing, jurisdictions impose additional inspection requirements depending on your circumstances.Here are a few general requirements to remember:Periodic Inspections“Periodic inspection” is used as a general term in ASME A17.1. However, it may refer to different inspection requirements according to certain authorities. These inspections involve visually examining elevators and reviewing their operational performance. Timeline requirements vary. These checks are often crucial for identifying minor issues before they escalate into major safety concerns.For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires monthly inspections for marine terminal elevators. Some states require construction elevator inspections at least every three months, while others require an annual visual inspection.Periodic inspections generally verify code and standard compliance, while category testing focuses on a safety system’s effectiveness. While you work with inspection companies for category inspection and testing, periodic inspections are performed by companies contracted by authoritative bodies — and they often show up unannounced.Acceptance InspectionsAn acceptance test for elevators refers to inspections conducted on newly installed elevators prior to their operational use. It ensures that the elevator was installed correctly and in accordance with the approved building plans, while also confirming compliance with applicable standards and local codes.This crucial step verifies that new installations meet all safety and performance criteria before public access.Alteration InspectionsAlteration inspections are required whenever you perform elevator updates. ASME A17.1 defines alterations as any change to the equipment, including its parts, components, and subsystems, other than maintenance, repair, or replacement.For instance, you may have upgraded the elevator’s door system, added a firefighter service, or replaced the controller. Unlike acceptance inspections, alteration inspections focus on the altered components, and it’s not a comprehensive inspection of the entire elevator. These inspections ensure that the altered components do not compromise the equipment's safety.Test WitnessingTest witnessing occurs alongside category testing, providing independent oversight to prevent conflicts of interest. Witnessing agencies observe the testing procedures, confirm accurate results, and file applicable reports. Their unbiased presence adds an extra layer of credibility and assurance to the inspection process.Who Performs Elevator Inspections? ATIS Only qualified personnel can perform elevator inspections. Working with inspectors without the proper credentials creates legal liability for your company and results in repeat inspections, costing you more in the long term.Each jurisdiction has its requirements regarding qualifications. Elevator inspections are generally performed by:Qualified elevator inspector (QEI): A QEI is a certified professional responsible for inspecting vertical transportation systems, including elevators and escalators, to ensure they meet safety codes and regulations. They may work for private inspection firms, government agencies, or as independent contractors.Authority having jurisdiction (AHJ): An AHJ is an agency, organization, or individual that enforces codes, standards, and regulations related to construction, fire prevention, and life safety. They review plans, issue permits, and conduct inspections. The AHJ varies depending on your facility’s location.Third-party inspection agencies: These independent organizations evaluate elevators against standards, confirm their safety measures and assess their overall performance. These unbiased evaluators must be QEI. Agencies can be employed by an AHJ.State inspectors: State inspectors must also be a QEI. They are government employees who conduct acceptance and alteration inspections and enforce state requirements.Risks of Noncompliance With Elevator Inspection RequirementsCode compliance is not an option, as the risks involve a person's safety. While fatality is rare, elevator-related injuries occur. You also risk legal liability, financial implications, and reputational damage.Noncompliance can lead to:Forced elevator shutdowns: Elevator issues can result in a red tag status, leading to a service suspension. Inspectors place a physical red tag on an elevator, rendering it out of service. The tag indicates that the elevator poses a safety hazard and cannot operate until the violations are corrected. Missing one inspection likely affects all your elevators, significantly impacting your facility’s operations.Civil and criminal fines: Each AHJ has inspection report deadlines, and failure to submit the report results in late fees. You must also correct defects within a specified time frame — penalties can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Noncompliance with statutes also results in fines. For instance, noncompliance with Florida's Elevator Safety statutes, which align with the latest ASME A17.1 standards, can result in fines up to $500.Rejected insurance claims: Insurance policies typically require building equipment, including elevators, to be compliant with relevant codes and regulations. Insurers can deny claims for uninspected elevators, arguing you’ve misrepresented your facility’s compliance status when applying for insurance. Policies often include clauses requiring specific safety measures.Personal liability: Even if a business or corporation owns the facility, noncompliance can pierce the corporate veil, particularly in elevator accidents caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct. This circumstance makes building owners personally liable for incidents. For instance, in Maine, elevator owners are guilty of criminal operation if the elevator lacks a valid inspection certificate.How to Ensure Compliance With Elevator Inspection RequirementsIt can be tricky to navigate all compliance requirements, especially if you’re managing multiple facilities.For large businesses operating across North America, the challenge is significant, as regulations can vary greatly not only between individual states like Florida and Nevada, but also across national borders with differing requirements in Canada. Performing these steps can help:Develop an effective compliance system: You need one to keep up with evolving safety codes. For instance, ASME A17.1 was updated in 2025, consisting of additional requirements from the 2022 version. Work with professionals who can review these changes and update your checklists accordingly. Your calendar should also include relevant deadlines, so you can schedule inspection and testing services as needed.Determine optimal processes: Meeting minimum requirements is the baseline, but you can also identify steps that result in optimal performance. Pay attention to which components can benefit from upgrades. While upgrades can increase costs, your facility can benefit in the long term from improved safety. For instance, if your facility uses hydraulic elevators, consider whether switching to electric elevators is worth the investment.Leverage trusted third-party services: Third-party services can help assess whether your facility is compliant with applicable codes and regulations. They can also suggest action plans for any potential violations. Working with these companies is especially sensible if you operate in multiple jurisdictions. It’s easier to miss deadlines when managing large portfolios, with penalties multiplying across the board.A Quality System Makes Elevator Compliance EasyNavigating the complex landscape of elevator inspection and testing requirements across the U.S. and Canada can be a challenge — it demands a robust, systematic approach to get it right. This dynamic regulatory environment often requires constant attention and adaptation from facility managers.Beyond the core category inspections, local jurisdictions and specific circumstances introduce additional mandates that businesses must be familiar with and follow. Effective compliance hinges on proactive management, depending on the expertise of qualified professionals and engaging trusted third-party services.Staying current with these ensures not only adherence to evolving safety standards but also guards against operational disruptions, significant financial consequences, and potential legal liabilities, ultimately protecting both users and facility owners.This story was produced by ATIS and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

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