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

Thursday, September 10th, 2026
	After Trump promised to pay $5,000 if Republicans win, here's what to expect Thursday President Trump promised to send every adult citizen $5,000, but only if Republicans maintain control of Congress in the midterm election, setting high expectations for the convention's final night.
	A year after Charlie Kirk was killed, young conservatives navigate a divided movement The death of Charlie Kirk was seen as a rallying call for young conservatives. One year later, the movement is wrestling with questions about its future.
	Special Weather Statement until THU 8:00 AM CDT Dense Fog Advisory: Reduced Visibility in Low-Lying Areas This Morning
	A pilot of the Amazon cargo plane in Miami crash warned it was coming in too fast For nearly two minutes, one of the pilots of the Amazon cargo plane that careened off a Miami runway repeatedly warned his counterpart they were going too fast, according to flight information.
Wednesday, September 9th, 2026
	Geneseo football off to 3-0 start Geneseo is off to a 3-0 start this season heading into week four of high school football.
	Davenport council approves big settlement with former assistant city attorney The Davenport City Council on Wednesday approved paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in a settlement agreement with the former assistant city attorney. Davenport will pay about $400,000 to Mallory Bagby. It was a five-five vote among the aldermen, but Mayor Jason Gordon broke the tie in favor of the settlement. Bagby accused some city [...]
	City of Eldridge brings firefighters back to discuss department plans Eldridge's volunteer firefighters went back to the bargaining table with city leaders to talk about the future of the department. It comes after city council voted to convert the volunteer department into a city agency. Our Quad Cities News was there Wednesday during the first public meeting since firefighters and city employees agreed to meet [...]
	Eldridge continues discussion on fire department future A final vote on the creation of a city-run fire department is set for October.
	Dani's Weekend Rundown: Sept. 10, 2026 In our inaugural episode, Dani is joined by Pat Leuck to discuss life after radio, where to enjoy some live local music and 9/11 memorials around the Quad Cities.
	12-year-old arrested for threat against Glenview Middle School Police said they do not believe the juvenile had the intent or means to act on the threat.
	Cincinnati man charged with child sex abuse in Knox County 25-year-old Trevor Jones has charged with two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child and two counts of child exploitation of a child.
	‘We’re all going to miss him’: Iowa band member remembered by friends after heat-related death His friends say he was more than a musician.
	Illinois could bill gunmakers for costs of gun violence Illinois state lawmakers are considering legislation to bill gunmakers for the costs of gun violence. Officials say that gun violence costs the state of Illinois $20 billion each year for things like emergency services, funerals and law enforcement. The Responsibility in Firearm Legislation Act (Senate Bill 2279) would require gun makers to contribute to a [...]
	City of Rock Island to begin routine fire hydrant flushing The city of Rock Island is set to begin its routine Fire Hydrant Flushing Program Sept. 13.
	QCA pushes to build out bike trail system Across the Quad Cities, there is an emphasis on adding and connecting the vast trail system in the area. "We're working on some other connections to help get people north - south," said John Byrnes, Bettendorf Parks and Recreation director. "And once we do that more efficiently, that'll connect and sort of start gridding our [...]
	Scott County earns recognition for financial reports John Maxwell, chair of the Scott County Board of Supervisors; Kerri Tompkins, county auditor; and Tony Knobbe, county treasurer; have announced that Scott County has been recognized forawards in presenting the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (Fiscal Year 2025) and the Popular Financial Report (Fiscal Year 2025,) according to a news release. Additionally, the county qualified [...]
	Law enforcement members head to DC on inaugural 'Quad City Back the Blue' flight Stops included the Law Enforcement Official Memorial Wall and Museum, the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall and the World War II Memorial.
	Davenport approves nearly $400k settlement with former assistant city attorney Mayor Jason Gordon broke the 5-5 vote to settle with Mallory Bagby, who brought a lawsuit against the city alleging harassment and discrimination.
	Fetterman, already at odds with his party, makes surprise video for GOP convention The Pennsylvania Democrat has already had a strained relationship with many inside his party. In the video, he spoke about working with Trump but did not outright praise him.
	i9 Investigation: Heat conditions exceeded recommended level at Iowa game where band member collapsed, later died An i9 Investigation is raising new questions about what led to the death of a University of Iowa band member who collapsed during Saturday’s football game.
	Davenport to pay former assistant city attorney almost $400K settlement The council approved the settlement in a close 6-5 vote Wednesday night.
	Muscatine housing leader recognized for expanding affordable housing A Muscatine housing leader is being recognized for her work expanding affordable housing. Charla Schafer is president of the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine. Schafer received the 2026 Kay Anderson Friend of Iowa Award. According to a Facebook post by the Iowa Finance Authority: Charla has made housing availability and affordability a priority, bringing public, [...]
	Rabbithole group hosting Credit Island cleanup, hangout The Rabbithole is a QCA library of resources and skills. Members can donate their talents, time or even household items, all while building community together.
	Long road home: Texas dog found in the Iowa Quad Cities It's been a doggone long road for a four-legged friend to make it back home. A dog missing for a year from Texas is home after he was found in the QCA. Coco was running loose at the Iowa 80 Truckstop in Walcott a few weeks ago. Someone caught Coco and brought him to the [...]
	Iowa pork farmers divided over ‘Save Our Bacon Act’ ahead of November election Iowa’s pork industry is divided over a bill in Congress that could prevent states from setting their own rules on how producers raise livestock.
	25 years later: Ceremonies and events across the Quad Cities region remembering the Sept. 11 attacks Community members across the region will come together to remember the lives lost and those impacted by the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
	Union president: Do more for Iowa teachers Pressure to do more for teachers in Iowa came from the president of the national teachers' union during a visit to the state. Princess Moss, president of the National Education Association (NEA), visited an elementary school in central Iowa. The NEA is the largest labor union in the country with three million teachers. Moss says [...]
	Quad Cities group hosting cleanup, outdoor activities at Credit Island The Rabbithole Outdoor Club is inviting people out to the island on Sunday, Sept. 13, for a morning of volunteering, outdoor recreation and community.
	Hampton Apple Fest celebrates 40-year tradition with new activities The annual event returns on Saturday, Sept. 19. It all benefits the nonprofit Hampton Historical Society and Hampton's iconic Brettun & Black Museum.
	How Quad Cities area is remembering 9/11 attacks on 25th anniversary Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11 attacks, communities across the nation and right here in the Quad Cities area continue to honor the lives lost and reflect on how that day changed America forever.
	Sorensen to request $1.5M to replace East Moline fire ladder truck The ladder truck has been in service since 2009, and build times for a new one can take three years or more.
	Annual Apple Fest benefiting Hampton museum Sponsored by the Hampton Historical Society, the festival helps the historic Brettun and Black Museum.
	These 61 organizations will receive $3.5M in Illinois local food grants Illinois will spend over $3.5 million to local food organizations in the state’s latest attempt to bolster local food infrastructure.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: MARCUS FERRELL, 40, 5’10”, 175 pounds, black eyes, black hair. Wanted by Iowa DOC 7th District High Risk Unit for probation violation on convictions [...]
	Rabid bat found in Macomb home The McDonough County Health Department said residents who find a bat in their home should contact them for guidance on potential rabies exposure and testing.
	27th Street bridge over I-74 to close for Moline bike path project The 27th Street bridge over Interstate 74 will close starting Sept. 9 as construction continues on a new bike path.
	Traffic Alert: I-80 East down to one lane for weigh-in motion sensor work Only one lane of I-80 East will be open for part of Thursday during sensor work in Rock Island County.
	Take in some of Illinois' most scenic roads at Tour of the Heartland Take a tour of some of Illinois' most scenic and lightly-traveled rural roads! Tina Reyes joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the Quad Cities Bicycle Club's Tour of the Heartland. For more information, click here.
	12-year-old arrested for making threats to East Moline school A 12-year-old was arrested Wednesday for making threats to a middle school in East Moline, according to a news release. On Sept. 3, East Moline police were notified about a social-media threat referring to “violence” at Glenview Middle School, 3100 7th St., East Moline, received through the social media application Tik Tok. The threat implied [...]
	YWCA Quad Cities holding diaper drive The drive runs Sept. 14-20. YWCA officials said diapers are among the most requested items from community members visiting their Empowerment Center.
	Man killed in Bureau County crash was an Illinois National Guard soldier Spc. Aiden Mrotek was killed in an after-duty crash on Sunday night. He had been assisting with community outreach efforts in Kewanee and was on his way back home.
	East Moline Fire Department seeking $1.5 million in additional funding The funding would help pay for a new fire truck.
	Charges dismissed for Mercer County school workers accused of illegally accessing student medical records Charges were dismissed against the two Mercer County school workers who were accused last year of illegally accessing student medical records.
	Prosecutors: Alex Uthoff was on cocaine when he crashed his motorcycle, killing his passenger New documents detail Uthoff's speeding and drug use prior to a crash that killed his passenger
	12-year-old arrested for Glenview Middle School social media threat A student at an East Moline middle school was arrested Wednesday after a threat made on TikTok was reported to police last week.
	12-year-old arrested for making threat against Glenview Middle School Police said they do not believe the juvenile had the intent or means to act on the threat.
	Voters can learn about $33.7M Central DeWitt school bond referendum at community forums The multimillion-dollar general obligation bond will be on the November ballot. If approved, the money will help bring all students to the same campus.
	Thurgood Marshall Learning Center names new principal Thurgood Marshall Learning Center (TMLC) has a new principal. Timothy Wernentin has been named the new principal at TMLC. Wernentin served as principal of Rock Island High School and spent nine years as principal of Sherrard High School. He served 11 years as a building principal before taking the Sherrard High School job.
	Police: 12-year-old arrested for social media threat against Glenview Middle School A 12-year-old boy has been arrested in connection to a social media threat against Glenview Middle School.
	Getting to Know the #1 Pizza Ranch Fan: Jason Halkias 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 [...]
	Cincinnati man arrested on Knox County child sex abuse, exploitation charges A man from Cincinnati has been arrested after an extensive, multi-jurisdictional criminal investigation into allegations involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of juvenile victims, according to a news release from the Knox County Sheriff's Office. The investigation began after the Knox County Sheriff's Office received information about sexual misconduct allegations involving juvenile victims taking place [...]
	Ohio man charged with sexual assault, exploitation in Knox County He has been taken into custody and is being held without pretrial release, pending further court proceedings.
	Carl Sandburg College president to retire Dr. Seamus Reilly has been president of the community college in Galesburg for nine years.
	Illinois National Guard soldier killed in Bureau County crash Spc. Aiden Mrotek was killed in an after-duty crash on Sunday night. He had been assisting with community outreach efforts in Kewanee and was on his way back home.
	Battery fires have been on the rise: Here's how to prevent them Battery fires have been on the rise: Here's how to prevent themIt only takes one battery to start a fire—and in the heat of summer, that risk rises dramatically.July and August consistently record the highest number of fires at waste and recycling facilities. Fire Rover’s Fire Safety Report, which tracks publicly reported fire incidents at waste and recycling facilities across North America, refers to the seasonal increase as the industry’s “summertime spike.” July and August 2025 set a record, with more than 100 fires reported over the two-month period. Final fire data for summer 2026 is not yet available, but the Fire Safety Report indicates the number of fires is trending in a similar direction.The trend underscores a growing risk: Batteries thrown in the trash or recycling can be damaged during collection and processing. During the summer, high temperatures can make those damaged batteries more likely to ignite and spread fire quickly.In June, a fourth rule was added to WM’s Recycle Right guide: no batteries in the recycling or trash. WM broke down why during the hottest months of the year, that guidance becomes even more critical. CRARGER // Shutterstock A common mistake with serious consequencesMany batteries end up in the trash or recycling unintentionally, often because they're hidden inside everyday products.“As batteries become part of more everyday products, it's more important than ever to understand how to handle them properly to keep them out of the trash and recycling streams,” said Ryan Nordt, executive director, recycling operations, WM. "Many people don’t realize they’re throwing away a battery when they toss a problem toy, an old pair of earbuds, or a cordless power tool or household device. The good news is there are programs available where the batteries from these products can be recycled."When those batteries enter the waste stream, they can be damaged by:Compaction inside garbage trucksCrushing or puncturing in sorting equipmentContact with metal or other batteriesHigh temperatures during collection and processingThese conditions can cause batteries to overheat, spark or ignite, leading to fires in trucks, landfills and recycling facilities. These fires can endanger consumers, workers, first responders and communities.Why summer heat makes battery fires more likelyBattery-related fires occur year-round, but summer creates conditions that make them more dangerous:Higher temperatures can cause batteries to overheat more easilyHeat can make damaged batteries less stable and more likely to igniteTemperatures inside garbage trucks, containers and processing facilities can climb quickly during the summerDry materials like paper, cardboard and plastics can help fires spread rapidly once they startResearch from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and industry analysis from Resource Recycling Systems (RRS) and the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) show that heat, pressure and combustible materials significantly increase both ignition risk and fire spread in waste and recycling operations.It’s not just lithium-ion batteriesLithium-ion batteries are often highlighted because they can experience something called "thermal runaway." This chain reaction causes a battery to rapidly overheat and potentially catch fire. However, any battery can pose a fire risk if it is damaged or disposed of improperly.Common household batteries that should never go in the trash or recycling include:Lithium-ion batteries (phones, laptops, e-bikes)Alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt)Rechargeable batteries (power tools, vacuums)Button and coin cell batteries (watches, key fobs)How to dispose of batteries safelyThe safest option is simple: Do not place batteries in curbside recycling or trash.Instead:Use battery recycling drop-off locations at retailers and community sites.Check local household hazardous waste programs.Participate in battery take-back events, including National Battery Take-Back Day on Sept. 12 (sponsored by NWRA).Tape battery terminals before storing or transporting batteries.Find a battery drop-off locationVisit BatterySafetyNow.org to locate a battery collection site near you and learn how to keep batteries out of the trash and recycling.One simple rule can help prevent firesThe rules are clear: If it’s a battery, don’t throw it in the recycling or trash. And that rule applies year-round.This story was produced by WM and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Illinois Army National Guard member dies in Bureau County crash An Illinois Army National Guard member was killed in a single-vehicle accident after supporting a community relations event in Kewanee. A news release from the Illinois Army National Guard said Spc. Aiden Mrotek, 21, was returning to his home in Carpentersville after helping with Illinois Army National Guard’s community outreach efforts in Kewanee. The Bureau [...]
	The schools turning to AI to rate students beyond standard grades The schools turning to AI to rate students beyond standard gradesArtificial intelligence will soon help teachers rate students’ academic and “soft” skills at schools using nontraditional report cards that skip A-F grading after an AI company purchased the nonprofit Mastery Transcript Consortium in July.The New York-based company Legend.org is developing AI tools to give teachers and students immediate feedback on papers, exams, recorded presentations and even artwork to the 400 public and private schools in the consortium.Legend.org co-founder Matt Sornson said the company’s platform lets teachers upload student work — either digital files or even photos of handwritten work. AI will then use state, school, or teacher standards to evaluate the work.The technology will go even further for mastery schools, which gauge how students improve toward mastering soft skills such as communication, collaboration and critical thinking. The AI tools will help teachers track progress on these more subjective skills using indicators educators and researchers are still developing.Sornson said that the AI tools he is working on will evaluate communication skills, for example, from recorded verbal presentations.“There’s some pretty pretty cool models around where you can do tone of voice, you can do body language and posture, you can do eye contact,” he told The 74. “There’s a lot of really really cool things you can do with video.”Sornson said AI would not judge whether a piece of artwork is “good,” just the technical aspects of it.For visual art, he said that could include composition, technical execution, use of materials, visual communication, and originality.For music, Sornson said, AI could judge “rhythm, pitch and intonation….” The technology could also “review recordings, video, written scores…and student reflections,” he said.He stressed that AI won’t be giving student work the final ratings, just acting as an aide to teachers.“It does the first pass of assessing (their) rubric and what (they’re) trying to grade,” Sornson said. “(AI) would ingest those assignments, those artifacts, and then do the first pass of assessment. It’s always the teacher choosing the final grade.”“We are just taking the first version, showing them where they should focus their efforts, and trying to save teachers’ time,” he added.That middle ground could be an important one, as educators and researchers nationally sort out how AI can be best used to help teachers grade student work and offer meaningful follow-up instruction. Some researchers have found AI feedback to be too lenient to students or to differ from the grades teachers give.Several colleges and schools are trying to mix AI tools with teacher judgment so it can help teachers and also protect student interests.Experts have stressed the importance of being transparent with students about how much teachers use AI and of making sure the technology isn’t showing any troublesome biases. Having humans make important decisions also matters, wrote Amanda Hirsch, an assistant director of the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning at Northern Illinois, in a look at the emerging use of a “digital red pen.”“As we stand at this crossroads of education and emerging technology, the question isn’t whether to use AI in grading, but how to use it ethically and intelligently,” Hirsch wrote.The Mastery Transcript Consortium is a group of schools that has developed a new report card and transcript model that skips A-F grades in favor of tracking student progress on dozens of academic and soft skills, such as collaboration, communication and critical thinking.In 2024, it merged with the Educational Testing Service, the company known for running the SAT and GRE college admissions tests, joining the Skills for the Future effort by ETS and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching to better assess how well students are learning skills and to prove those skills to colleges and employers.But ETS decided to focus on creating new assessments and less on report cards. In July, it sold the consortium and its transcript model to the for-profit Legend.org for an undisclosed amount.Consortium founder Scott Looney, head of the private Hawken School in Cleveland, Ohio, said he is also excited about how AI can help teachers. AI, he said, can reduce the time teachers spend reading and grading student work and can offer immediate feedback to both students and teachers that they can discuss and shift quickly toward improving.Gauging how well students are doing on soft skills — such as self-direction, generating solutions or synthesizing information — isn’t simple, either, he said. Students build portfolios of work across multiple courses that show their progress on multiple skills. AI, he said, can evaluate progress across many pieces of work and summarize them much faster than teachers — and later college admissions staff — can.“If we can make this easier for students to pull their portfolios together, easier for teachers to get feedback to the kids about the quality of the work in their portfolios, and then easier for the receivers of our transcripts that are full of portfolios to interpret them, I think this is going to go exponential,” Looney said.Over time, Looney said, he hopes students could even submit work to the platform on their own for suggestions before turning it in to a teacher.A key feature of the upcoming tools, Sornson said, is that student work can be measured against any standards a school chooses. That could include public breakdowns of skills and subskills — such as those from ETS and Carnegie, from another partnership called Pathsmith, or from the nonprofit XQ Institute — or any that schools develop themselves.Looney said colleges or employers might eventually be able to submit their own standards for skills they want from applicants for AI to use to measure student work from all four years of high school.Though Looney said one of his campuses that uses the mastery report cards will try the AI tools out as Legend offers them, other schools in the consortium are still learning about the sale and haven’t said yet what they plan to do.“I would be surprised if schools decide to forsake the AI tools as they will be highly accurate and save students and teachers time,” Looney said.Looney said he was concerned at first that the transcript model he created with other schools would turn into a for-profit product. But he said the partnership relied on grants to operate that are not sustainable. The computerized system that creates the transcripts also needed improvements Legend is already doing, making it easier for new schools to join.The split from ETS and Carnegie is friendly. Both Looney and Laura Slover, who heads the Skills for the Future effort of ETS and Carnegie, will be on an advisory board to the new company.This story was produced by The 74 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport man charged with sexually abusing child more than a decade ago A Davenport man is charged with two counts of second-degree sexual abuse for allegedly sexually abusing a child more than a decade ago.
	Fold the phone: Apple's new CEO unveils a foldable iPhone New Apple CEO John Ternus announces the iPhone Duo, which folds like a passport and is the most radical iPhone design update in nearly 20 years.
	The retirement fear gap: Who really fears running out of money? The retirement fear gap: Who really fears running out of money?Although fear or anxiety about retirement is often felt by those nearing the age limit,a new survey of 1,000 Americans commissioned by John Stevenson, a retirement-income specialist who sells annuities, shows that income level is a better predictor of who is most concerned about retirement income.Americans earning less than $25,000 a year are nearly four times as likely as six-figure earners to say they are not confident in their retirement savings and are scared of running out of money.And with that fear comes an even more uncomfortable finding: The people who fear retirement the most are the least likely to look at products to stop that from happening.Retirement is An Income ProblemThe survey finds that the lower the income, the higher the fear. More than one in four respondents earning under $25,000 said they have no confidence in their retirement savings and fear running out. Among those earning six-figures, fewer than one in ten said the same thing.This contradicts the standard “countdown” to retirement, where age typically dictated the anxiety. It’s being felt by people of all ages in lower incomes.Only 1 in 5 Believe the 401(k) worksThe 401(k) made workers believe they were working for something. It was pitched as a retirement fund with more control than a pension. Just 21.3% of respondents say the plan gave people more control, with more than four in 10 saying it works better for higher earners.Among low-income earners, 37.7% say the system works better for higher earners. The answer rises to 44% among those who earn $50,000 to $249,999.This is important to note because only about 14% of workers in the private sector had access to pension benefits as of March 2025. So, for most workers, the 401(k) is the only option the workforce gives them, one which they believe doesn’t favor them. The Guaranteed Retirement Guy Nearly Half Support Bringing Back PensionsWhen asked if bringing back pensions would help strengthen retirement security, nearly half (46.1%) said yes. Another 40.4% said yes, with the condition that workers keep some control over their savings.This support isn’t coming only from low-income earners. The answer stands across the income board. Among households earning $100,000 to $250,000, 49% said yes, pensions would strengthen retirement security, while another 41.6% said yes with the condition.The answer with the condition is telling. People want the security of a pension and the control of a 401(k). The Guaranteed Retirement Guy Those Most Afraid Are Least Likely to Look for a SolutionThis brings the survey full circle. A third of respondents (33.8%) said they’d be very likely to explore a guaranteed monthly income if shown the exact parameters, with another 47% saying they would be somewhat likely. Transparency is the name of the game for most people.But not for the ones who need it the most. Among those already saving for retirement, four in ten said they’d eagerly explore a guaranteed paycheck. Among those not saving, and worrying about retirement, less than a quarter said the same thing.The fear gap is real, but in this case, fear does not cause fight or flight. It causes paralysis, a state where people know they need a solution but are less willing to explore it.MethodologyTo understand how Americans approach retirement security and guaranteed income, John Stevenson surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults across the country in July 2026 through Pollfish, an online survey platform. Participants answered questions about their views on traditional pensions and 401(k) plans, their confidence in their own retirement savings, the tradeoffs they would accept between guaranteed income and flexibility, and what would make them comfortable exploring a guaranteed monthly paycheck. Responses were analyzed by demographic groups, including age, gender, household income, and education level, to identify trends and disparities.This story was produced by John Stevenson and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Understanding DSCR loans: How cash-flow underwriting works for rental properties Understanding DSCR loans: How cash-flow underwriting works for rental propertiesThe property investment market is going through a period of uncertainty, with Q1 of 2026 being the quietest period since the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic brought house sales to a halt, according to data from Redfin cited by Newsweek. The previous low point for the market in terms of investor activity, discounting the anomaly of the pandemic, was 10 years ago, and between January and March the year-on-year change in sales was -6%.One of the barriers to entry that new property investors have, as well as an obstacle that prevents existing investors from expanding their rental property portfolio, is access to capital. An individual might know that there’s an opportunity to buy a home and generate decent returns via rent, covering financing costs and turning a profit in the process, but getting approved for a traditional mortgage in this scenario comes with a whole host of eligibility implications, not to mention tax obligations.Debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) loans are an alternative to standard institutional mortgages and can be a good fit for investors looking to buy into rental properties. With the market slowing, now may be the time for keen investors to act. Griffin Funding, a mortgage and home loan lender, broke down exactly what DSCR loans are and how they function in a rental property investment context. Griffin Funding The Basics of Cash-Flow UnderwritingCash-flow underwriting evaluates a rental property based on its ability to generate income rather than the personal income of the borrower. Instead of calculating debt-to-income ratios using W-2s and tax returns, lenders analyze the DSCR to determine if the asset pays for itself.DSCR is calculated by dividing gross monthly rent by monthly PITIA (principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and association dues). When a property’s gross rent matches its total housing obligation, the ratio sits at 1.0. A ratio above 1.25 indicates strong monthly cash flow, earning borrowers lower interest rates and lower equity requirements.A Closer Look at DSCR CalculationsTo qualify for an investor mortgage, the property must undergo a physical appraisal alongside a market rent analysis via Fannie Mae Form 1007. The appraiser reviews local comparable leases to establish the fair market rent, which forms the gross monthly income baseline for underwriting.For a three-bedroom single-family rental grossing $3,000 in monthly rent with a calculated $2,400 total PITIA, the math breaks down as the $3,000 rent divided by the $2,400 PITIA, providing a DSCR ratio of 1.25. Lenders set unique program parameters based on this coverage metric. Ratios between 1.00 and 1.24 still cover the monthly obligation, though lenders tend to respond with a higher credit requirement or a lower loan-to-value limit. Below 1.00 the property runs a monthly deficit, and lenders willing to write the loan ask for a larger down payment and deeper reserves to offset it.Even when rental figures fall below break-even thresholds, specialized debt-coverage options allow capital deployment into value-added acquisitions. Such flexibility is key to enabling investors to capitalize on opportunities that present themselves, especially if they can determine that the long-term prospects of a rental property promise significant returns that aren’t reflected in its current valuation.Appreciating the Qualification CriteriaWhile cash-flow underwriting waives traditional employment verification, lenders mitigate risk by enforcing strict asset and credit guidelines. DSCR loans sit outside agency guidelines, so there is no single national standard and the baselines vary by lender. Most programs start around a 640 credit floor, though some lenders go lower. Down payment requirements typically range from 20% to 25%, but they sit at each lender's discretion and move with credit tier. A stronger score buys a smaller down payment, while borrowers near the bottom of a lender's range should expect to put more in.Those requirements apply to a fast-growing slice of the market. Investor and DSCR loans made up 33.5% of non-QM loan volume in recent lock data.The Tax AngleConventional mortgages cap investors at 10 financed properties while penalizing tax write-offs that lower net reported income. Cash-flow underwriting removes these barriers, allowing self-employed borrowers and entity-based investors to scale without tax return scrutiny.Self-employed buyers frequently leverage nonconforming cash-flow loans to qualify without personal income documentation. Because qualifications tie directly to property assets, investors can close deals through limited liability companies (LLCs) or corporate entities, keeping personal debt profiles entirely separate from commercial real estate assets.An Ongoing Market OpportunityIn short, cash-flow underwriting transforms how real estate portfolios grow by anchoring loan approvals directly to the income potential of individual assets. In removing debt-to-income hurdles and personal tax review, investors gain a streamlined mechanism for acquiring properties based on real market revenue. And with the market slowing down, those in a position to capitalize on buyers being in a stronger position should consider this an appealing option.This story was produced by Griffin Funding and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How your finance team can calculate AP automation ROI How your finance team can calculate AP automation ROIYou're the finance leader at a scaling company with 50-500 employees, and your CFO wants a number that justifies the accounts payable automation return on investment (ROI). The figure has to be defensible and grounded in the current accounts payable (AP) process cost. The problem is that your current AP process is a patchwork of manual steps, legacy tools, and tribal knowledge. The baseline you'd need to prove savings is effectively invisible.You can't show what automation saves until you know what the current process actually costs. A useful calculation framework works from imperfect data and still produces a defensible range. Finance leaders who build a defensible case typically pair conservative assumptions with a stress test and three scenarios, an approach that tends to survive CFO scrutiny. The strongest outputs end up simple enough for a leadership meeting and detailed enough for a controller to defend.AP automation ROI follows a straightforward formula of annual savings minus total annual automation cost, divided by total annual automation cost, then multiplied by 100 to express it as a percentage. The savings side covers labor, errors, fee leakage, missed discounts, and reduced fraud risk. The investment side covers software, implementation, and training. Use the information below from Brex to help inform your decision, and consider working with an appropriate professional advisor based on your specific circumstances.What is AP automation ROI?AP automation ROI measures the financial return from replacing manual invoice processing with software that captures, codes, routes, and pays invoices. It compares the savings automation generates with the technology's operating costs. The point is to turn fragmented AP activity into a model finance leadership can test, defend, and revisit.The AP automation ROI formulaROI as a percentage equals annual savings minus total annual automation cost. Divide that figure by the total annual automation cost, then multiply by 100. Current annual AP cost is your starting input, built from labor plus error and rework, plus fee leakage, plus the cost of existing systems. The automated annual AP cost is what you'll spend after rollout, including reduced labor and new software fees. Total automation investment is the upfront and recurring spend on software, implementation, and training.The savings are split into direct ROI, which is measurable cash savings, and indirect ROI, which covers audit readiness, financial close process, and team retention. If your accounts payable software tools log cost per invoice and cycle time, those fields make the direct side easier to track, and the indirect bucket gets fuller treatment in the intangibles section below.What counts as a good ROI for AP automation?A defensible return for a mid-market company treats six to 18 months as a directional planning range, consistent with modeled finance-automation payback data from Forrester, whose Total Economic Impact model for a modeled enterprise found payback in under six months. Finance teams typically present three-year ROI as an informed estimate, refined with their own data. A CFO-ready case typically relies on a company's own invoice volume, labor rates, error rates, and automation costs, with external benchmarks used as context.The clearest anchor comes from the cost-per-invoice gap. Ardent Partners' State of ePayables benchmark analysis puts the overall industry average at $9.84 per invoice. Top-performing AP teams achieve per-invoice processing costs 79% lower than their peers, according to Ardent's benchmark analysis. The space between those numbers is where ROI lives. A conservative model holds up better in a CFO conversation than a single-point ROI claim.What factors drive AP automation ROI?Each ROI driver maps to a quantifiable lever in the model. Understanding where savings concentrate before building the calculation tends to reveal which assumptions carry the most weight and which inputs move payback the most.Invoice volume and current process complexityROI generally increases with invoice volume because per-invoice efficiency gains compound across the total volume processed. Modeling actual volume, current cost per invoice, and expected automation cost tends to show where payback turns positive. Process complexity multiplies the opportunity. Companies running approval chains across email and spreadsheets, or reconciling manually against the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, may carry higher baseline costs and have more to gain. A messier current state can create a larger potential return.Labor costs and touchless processing rateLabor is a major ROI driver for many companies because it scales with invoice volume when processing is manual. The overall industry average invoice processing cost is $9.84, while the current average straight-through processing rate (the share of invoices that route from receipt to payment without any manual intervention) is 32.6%, according to Ardent's benchmark analysis.Top-performing organizations are also much further along on straight-through processing, with 69% having it in place, per Ardent's AP Performance Advantages analysis. The linked benchmarking coverage reinforces the spread, showing a 3.5-times staffing gap between top and bottom performers in AP full-time equivalents (FTEs) per $1 billion in revenue, according to APQC performance coverage.Finance teams commonly model labor savings as redeployment of AP staff to higher-value analysis and the processes covered in a vendor management guide. A conservative, CFO-ready model builds labor savings by redeploying AP staff to higher-value work before projecting headcount reduction, consistent with the day-to-day priorities laid out in an AP manager's best practices. The redeployment framing also holds up better when invoice volume grows, and the team absorbs it before adding hires.Error rates and rework costsCutting manual data-entry errors, duplicate payments, and general ledger (GL) miscoding yields savings that many finance leaders underestimate. AP teams average an 18.4% invoice exception rate, meaning nearly one in five invoices requires manual intervention and rework, according to Ardent's AP Performance benchmark analysis. The same analysis also shows supplier inquiry management consumes a significant share of AP staff time, around 26.9% for All Others.That compounds the cost of each exception. Automation with invoice matching and validation rules can help reduce errors and rework by routing likely mismatches to a human for review. Tightening these controls is also how teams prevent duplicate payments in accounts payable before they leave the building, and it is the same discipline behind paperless accounts payable programs that remove paper handoffs as a source of miskeyed data. The practical value is fewer corrections after close and fewer vendor conversations that pull AP away from higher-value work.Late fees and early-payment discount captureFee savings show up directly on the P&L, and they're among the most underestimated in AP automation models. Late-payment penalties are avoidable with faster cycle times and better visibility, and missed early-payment discounts represent real money left on the table. A standard 2/10 net 30 discount works out to roughly 36.7% annualized return using standard trade-discount annualization math. Finance teams that model these conservatively use their own vendor terms, actual late-payment incidence, and discount eligibility. Faster payment timing can also give cleaner control over days payable outstanding, which matters for working capital planning.Fraud and compliance riskAP controls, including internal controls for accounting, approval enforcement, and audit trails, can help reduce exposure to fraud. The typical organization loses an estimated 5% of its revenue each year to fraud, a figure described as conservative in an ACFE press release. Only part of that exposure is AP-attributable, and AP controls are a direct mitigant for billing and payment risks. Including a risk-reduction proxy in the model is defensible and can be a compelling number for a board-level audience.How to calculate AP automation ROIThe calculation works even when AP data is fragmented. Each component below builds toward a one-page structure that a CFO can act on.Baselining the true current cost of APMany finance leaders don't have a clear cost-per-invoice baseline because AP costs sit scattered across people, systems, and teams with no clean time tracking. Establishing one is the part most models skip, and it's why many AP automation ROI estimates collapse under CFO scrutiny. The baseline draws from three inputs.A two-week time study logs minutes per invoice across each step, from intake and data entry through coding, approval chasing, payment prep, accounts payable reconciliation, and exception handling. A fully loaded hourly rate includes base pay, benefits, and overhead. Monthly invoice volume gives you the multiplier.Where a formal time study isn't feasible, Ardent's processing time benchmark works as a sanity check; the overall industry average is 8.2 days. Error and rework costs round out the baseline, calculated as the volume of invoices requiring correction multiplied by resolution time and hourly rate, plus fee leakage from late fees paid and discounts missed.Identifying savings leversFinance teams typically map which steps automation will reduce and by how much, then assign ranges to each as planning assumptions, building a conservative labor scenario, a base-case labor scenario, and an aggressive steady-state scenario. Error and rework improvement gets modeled the same way, using the current exception rate and the spread between average and top-performing exception rates as the upper-bound sanity check. Fee and discount improvement models reduce the incidence of late payments and yield a conservative improvement in discount capture based on the company’s actual vendor terms.Payment rail savings matter too. Companies that still run significant check volume can see a different per-transaction cost profile by migrating to automated clearing house (ACH) payments or virtual cards, depending on payment mix, vendor acceptance, and provider terms. These belong in the model as directional ranges, since they function as planning assumptions refined with a company's own data. The goal is a model that shows leadership exactly where savings come from, instead of a black-box total they can't inspect.Adding up the full cost of the investmentThe three direct costs that belong in every model are software subscription, implementation, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) integration. Software subscription is the recurring line item, priced by invoice volume. Implementation and ERP integration need a firm quote because costs vary by ERP complexity, invoice volume, and the vendor's integration model. Training covers getting the team productive on the new tool.Indirect costs are where estimates fall short, including a temporary productivity dip during migration, internal IT and finance time on setup and testing, and ongoing exception-handling capacity. One thing worth noting with a CFO is that a tracked platform makes previously invisible exceptions visible. Teams that processed exceptions manually often had no count of how many existed. Moving those exceptions into a tracked workflow gives AP a measurable baseline that didn't exist before.Building the side-by-side modelThe model compares the current annual AP cost, pulled directly from the baseline, against the automated annual AP cost, which combines reduced labor, new platform fees, and residual exception handling. Running three scenarios lets leadership see a defensible range across conservative, base, and aggressive cases. Each scenario reflects a company's own assumptions, such as conservative, base, and aggressive labor-reduction rates, fee-reduction rates, and discount-capture improvements. One conservative internal stress test halves the savings estimate and doubles the implementation cost, then checks whether ROI stays positive under that pressure; a case that holds up is more resilient. Companies that use a 24-month payback threshold, and whose stressed scenario extends past it, tend to name that scenario openly rather than smooth it over.Calculating ROI, payback period, and three-year net benefitRunning the formula against a base-case model produces ROI as a percentage: annual savings minus total annual automation cost, divided by total annual automation cost, times 100. Payback period is total investment divided by monthly net savings, providing the number of months that CFOs typically ask for first. For companies with a formal capital-approval process, a simple three-year net present value using your company's standard discount rate puts AP automation on equal footing with other investment requests.The worked example below is illustrative; the verified benchmarks show the general shape, while a company's own data determines the actual result. As an illustrative internal modeling example, a 200-employee company processing roughly 1,500 invoices per month with two full-time AP staff members offers a useful reference point. Those assumptions equal about 18,000 invoices a year.If the current cost is near the $9.84 average while the model uses an illustrative $4 to $6 post-automation target, annual savings range from $69,000 to $105,000 before automation costs. The $4 to $6 target functions as a planning assumption rather than an external benchmark. Finance teams typically replace it with vendor quotes and their own post-rollout data during diligence. The strongest models use actual invoice volume and labor rates, since CFOs tend to test the inputs against reality.Quantifying the intangiblesDirect savings tend to carry the case, and quantified intangibles can strengthen it. Audit and compliance risk can be estimated by costing a single audit finding, including external auditor time, remediation, and potential penalty, with a conservative probability reduction applied for stronger AP controls, and the ACFE loss estimate serving as a directional reference for fraud exposure.Finance team capacity captures the hours recovered from manual AP and redirected to financial planning and analysis, forecasting, and vendor management. The staff replacement cost uses the Gallup range, which estimates that replacing an employee costs one-half to two times the annual salary, per Gallup's workplace analysis. Scalability is often a persuasive slide, showing AP headcount at two times and three times current invoice volume under manual versus automated models. The divergence can strengthen the long-term case.How to build a CFO-ready AP automation business caseA model that earns CFO approval needs more than accurate math. Each component below produces a concrete output suited to a slide. Pairing the case with disciplined accounts payable management helps ensure the savings remain durable after go-live.Framing the problem in dollar termsThe strongest CFO cases open with the current-state cost, so the CFO sees a number first. A dollar figure captures attention quickly and frames the decision in financial terms. That figure comes from the fully loaded baseline calculation, with the total annual AP cost broken into labor, error and rework, and fee leakage. This figure can represent the cost of doing nothing and anchor the rest of the case. Leading with that number signals that the problem has been measured before a fix is proposed.Laying out the investment and payback clearlyThe strongest presentations put the two-column model from the side-by-side view front and center, showing the current annual cost against the automated annual cost, with net savings and the payback period in months. Conservative and base-case scenarios sit side by side, since a CFO who sees only one number will ask for the downside anyway, and presenting it upfront signals rigor. The stress-test result also belongs in the open, stated plainly if payback still lands under the company's chosen planning threshold when savings are halved and costs doubled. Tracking these figures over time is the job of an accounts payable reporting framework once the platform is live.Adding the strategic upside the numbers don't captureThe quantified intangibles from the earlier section round out the case. Audit risk reduction, finance team capacity recovered, and the scalability argument that compares AP headcount at two times versus three times invoice volume under manual and automated models all belong here. This section stays short, since the dollar figures in the prior section do the heavy lifting. The intangibles confirm that the investment may position the team for growth while trimming current costs.Anticipating the objections before the meetingMost CFO reviews surface the same three objections, and walking in with prepared answers is what separates a presentation that moves forward from one that stalls. On "How confident are we in these numbers?", the strongest answers walk through the conservative assumptions, the stress test that still shows positive ROI, and the inputs drawn from actual invoice volume and labor rates. On "What if adoption is slow?", the answer shows the conservative scenario, with a lower year-one automation benefit, an extended payback timeline, and ROI that stays positive regardless.On "What is the implementation risk?", the strongest answers name ERP integration complexity, change management, and data migration as the main risks. Pair each with a mitigation, and describe a phased rollout starting with one invoice type that generates proof-of-concept data before full deployment. Grounding the rollout in accounts payable best practices gives the plan credibility.What determines whether an AP automation ROI forecast holds up?Realizing a forecast depends far more on what happens after the software goes live than on how well the model was built. Each determinant below is manageable when planned for before implementation.Process cleanliness before go-liveThe ROI model assumes clean workflows that route predictably. Messy approval matrices, inconsistent intake channels, and an uncleaned vendor master all suppress the touchless rate from day one and extend payback. A pre-implementation audit adds upfront work, and that investment compounds positively across the full ROI lifecycle. Cleaning the inputs before launch is often one of the lower-cost ways to protect the forecast.Staff adoption rate in the first 90 daysThe touchless rate functions as a leading indicator of realized ROI, since low adoption can push actual savings below the model. When AP staff or approvers route around the platform, the savings never materialize, regardless of what the software can do. Many finance teams treat the first 90 days as a suggested adoption review window, tracking whether touchless processing is increasing, exceptions are decreasing, and approvers are staying within the workflow. The first quarter tends to serve as the validation window for both adoption and savings assumptions.Consistency of post-implementation trackingVariances between forecast and actual savings are normal, but a model that's rarely revisited can drift from reality before there's a chance to adjust. Finance teams commonly track cost per invoice, cycle time, and touchless rate at suggested six-, 12-, and 24-month review intervals against the pre-automation baseline, which keeps the model honest and builds the data needed to justify next-phase investments. Setting clear accounts payable goals against that baseline makes tracking a standing habit.Turn your AP baseline into a CFO-ready ROI caseAP automation ROI is a buildable finance model grounded in your own data. One of the hardest parts is establishing a baseline from imperfect data, and that's often solvable with a two-week time study and named benchmarks. The finance leaders most likely to win approval present a conservative range, a stress test, and a payback period in months that survives scrutiny.A cost-per-invoice calculation compared against the $9.84 overall average and the top-performing AP team performance gap from Ardent Partners' benchmark analysis can open the CFO conversation, and customer results can help show what disciplined AP automation produces in practice.Frequently asked questions about AP automation ROIConsider consulting a qualified professional for your situation in addition to the information below.How long does AP automation take to pay back?Many mid-market AP automation models use a six- to 18-month directional planning range, consistent with modeled finance-automation payback data from Forrester, whose Total Economic Impact model found payback in under six months for a modeled enterprise. Payback shortens with higher invoice volume, heavy current reliance on checks or wires, and high error rates. It extends with low invoice volume, a simple existing process, or complex ERP integration that adds setup time and migration work.How much does it cost to process an invoice manually?The industry average cost per invoice is $9.84, according to Ardent's State of ePayables benchmark analysis. Your fully loaded cost depends on labor rates, error frequency, and fee leakage, as the baseline step shows. The benchmark works as a sanity check. Your own time study is what should drive the actual number.Is AP automation worth it for a mid-sized company?Yes, it can be, though the strength of the case depends on your invoice volume and the complexity of your current process. The ROI case generally strengthens as invoice volume rises because labor savings compound across processed invoices. At lower volumes, payback can extend, but the strategic benefits (audit trails, faster close cycles, and scalability) often justify the investment for growing companies. Model your specific invoice volume rather than relying on a volume threshold alone.What KPIs measure AP automation ROI over time?Common KPIs include cost per invoice, invoice cycle time, touchless processing rate, error and exception rate, late-payment frequency, and early-payment discount capture rate, each measured against the pre-automation baseline at review intervals a finance team can sustain, such as six, 12, and 24 months. The full set of accounts payable metrics provides definitions to standardize tracking and explain variance.Will AP automation reduce headcount?Many mid-market companies model automation as the redeployment of AP staff to higher-value work. Teams shift from data entry and exception chasing to vendor management, analysis, and escalation handling. At high invoice volumes, some companies reduce headcount through attrition over time. Both scenarios are typically modeled explicitly when the case is presented to a CFO.This story was produced by Brex and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	9 sales tasks that agents are taking over in 2026, and 4 that humans have kept 9 sales tasks that agents are taking over in 2026, and 4 that humans have keptArtificial intelligence is making waves across a wide variety of industries. One area where many employees feel that disruption most keenly is sales. The latest State of Sales Report from Salesforce puts numbers to the feeling.Once AI agents are fully rolled out, sellers are expecting a 34% cut in prospect research time and a 36% cut in email drafting time. This can save sales reps countless tedious hours. Where automation is set to occur is actually the more interesting part of this data.Apollo dug deep into this report, in conjunction with data from Digital Commerce 360 and Perplexity, to outline nine key areas where AI will have the greatest impact, along with a couple of areas that will still need human hands.What AI is taking overThere are nine main sales areas where AI is set to have the largest effect. Coincidentally, they are also nine of the easiest areas where tasks can be directly shifted to agents without human intervention.The AI tools used today are the same ones that will likely be adapted in the coming years to optimize daily tasks, meaning limited investment in new technology will be required:1. Account researchAccount research is the first area set to be automated by AI. A lot more reps are just asking ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and other models for information on prospects directly. By leveraging their data and then combining it with MCP connectors in products like Salesforce or HubSpot, they can pull live data straight into the conversation, too. Sellers surveyed in the Salesforce report go as far as to estimate that this will cut prospect research time by 34% once agents are fully in place.2. List buildingTo build an outreach target list in the past, a rep traditionally had to jump between a number of different tools. Now, they can just outline what an ideal customer profile looks like to a large language model and take a look at the output. This can be taken further by connecting the AI to a data source to get ranked lists, too.3. First-touch draftingEmail drafting is the bane of many reps' existence. Luckily, it’s also one of the areas AI can help. Reps can use LLMs to handle cold email creation and even pull account signals live from an MCP before even writing. This trend is projected to be a 36% time-saver according to the Salesforce report, as well.4. CRM loggingAsk a rep what their favorite part of the day is and you’d be hard-pressed to find any that say logging interactions in their customer relationship management system. It’s actually a common failure point in today’s workflows. AI agents and MCP-connected assistants that write back to Salesforce and HubSpot are automatically gaining traction as a result.5. SchedulingIf there’s one thing AI agents have already proved adept at, it’s handling meeting scheduling and calendar coordination. This is another tedious time suck for sales reps who could be focused on more important tasks. Using AI also means organizations can save money from not needing to hire an admin.6. TranscriptionHuman memory is finite and remembering every detail of a call is just impossible. Humans can also only write so fast. AI transcription services, on the other hand, are improving by the day. Notetaker apps and Fireflies-style tools are available as Claude and ChatGPT connectors, which can automatically extract decisions, action items, and next steps from prospect or client calls.7. Signal monitoringFlagged by Gartner at its CSO and Sales Leader Conference, monitoring buying signals, such as funding rounds, job changes, and intent data, is another area poised to be a time-saver with AI.8. Follow-up timingAI agents can now flag and time follow-ups based on pre-set engagement signals and reply likelihood. This reduces much of the manual tracking that used to eat up rep time.9. Pipeline hygieneFinally, keeping opportunity records, stages, and forecasts up to date is shifting to automated agents and MCP write-backs. What was formerly an end-of-week manual cleanup task can now be automated by AI.What is set to stay humanAs with any technology, not everything will be revolutionized. There will always be a human touch, and some tasks will likely remain rep-owned because they are directly tied to trust, quota performance, and deal outcomes:1. Live negotiationPeople still like to chat with real people, and real-time deal negotiation is predicted to stay human. The Gartner survey found that buyers are more likely to say a human rep helped them advance to the next step, made them feel confident, and understood their needs.2. Multi-threaded relationship workBuilding and maintaining relationships across multiple stakeholders in a buying group will also be a human task. Gartner found buying groups with low dysfunction, mainly built through sustained rep engagement, were 13 times more likely to report high-quality deals.3. Reading a roomInterpreting unspoken buyer intent is explicitly named by Gartner as a top seller skill tied to quota attainment. This is distinct from AI-partnership skills and is a human-only capability.4. Deciding which deals deserve human timeKnowing when and where to spend human time should always stay with reps and managers. The time saved from integrating AI into a rep’s day-to-day should be reallocated to these specific human-only tasks to ensure maximum productivity.The future of AI in salesAI is here to stay and there’s no changing that, but it doesn’t mean the importance of a rep’s job will shrink. Rather than spending time on busywork like researching prospects, drafting emails, or logging conversations, AI will free up a rep’s time to work on the more important side of sales: building relationships. Integrating AI to automate traditional tasks will allow for time to focus on work that requires human attention, such as negotiating deals and managing stakeholders.This story was produced by Apollo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	YWCA Quad Cities hosting diaper drive during National Diaper Need Awareness Week National Diaper Need Awareness Week is September 14–20 and YWCA Quad Cities is raising awareness about diaper need in the Quad Cities. Buying diapers is a challenge for families across the country; one in two U.S. families struggle to provide enough diapers to meet their baby or toddler’s basic needs. The YWCA Empowerment Center is [...]
	Mapping America’s truck culture by state Mapping America’s truck culture by stateThe pickup truck is America's most iconic vehicle—so deeply ingrained in its culture and lifestyle that it’s difficult to imagine a drive without spotting several pickups on the road. For decades, trucks have topped sales charts, defined regional identity, and served as a symbol for blue-collar America—work, land, self-reliance, and freedom. But truck culture isn't distributed evenly across the country. Some states are truck-obsessed by necessity—ranching, agriculture, and unpaved roads that demand capable machinery. Others are truck-obsessed by identity. Many are both—some are neither.Here, RealTruck.com maps where trucks are most popular in America, which states have the most pickup truck owners per capita, where truck sales are highest, and what this data means for U.S. drivers.The Big Picture—Trucks by the NumbersPickup trucks accounted for more than 20 percent of total new vehicle sales in the United States in 2024, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, with approximately 16 million new light vehicles sold across the market that year. When you broaden the category to include light trucks—pickups, SUVs, and crossovers combined—that share climbs dramatically. Light trucks accounted for about 81.2% of the approximately 15.9 million light vehicles sold in the United States in 2024. A decade ago, SUVs and trucks made up roughly half the market. Today, three out of four new vehicles sold in America fall into these categories.In 2025, F-Series secured its 49th consecutive year as America's best-selling truck with total sales of 828,832 trucks—an increase of 8.3%. The Chevrolet Silverado and Ram 1500 round out the top three, as they have for years. Though the F-Series was dethroned in 2024 as the best-selling vehicle across all classes by the Toyota RAV4, that doesn't diminish its dominance in its own category. The truck commands an impressive roughly 35% of the full-size segment.What States Have the Most Pickup Trucks per Capita?Which states have the most trucks can be determined in two ways—by raw registrations and by trucks as a share of total vehicle registrations. The second number is more telling, as it removes the size-of-state variable and shows where trucks are most deeply embedded in a state's driving culture.On the total registration side, Texas is the uncontestable leader with over 4.2 million registered pickups. However, if you take the size of the state out of the equation and instead measure pickup trucks as a share of all registered vehicles, Wyoming tops the list at 37.1%. Montana is a close second at 34.7%, and North Dakota at 31.6%.These states share the same justifications for truck ownership—unpaved roads, rugged terrain, harsh winters, and economies built around agriculture, ranching, and mining. A pickup isn't just the best tool for the job in Wyoming—it's often the only tool.The contrast at the bottom of the list is equally telling. New Jersey has the lowest share of pickup trucks at 7.9%, which is less than half the national average. Except for Illinois, the 10 states with the lowest shares of pickup trucks are all coastal states. Dense urban areas, better public transportation, walkable infrastructure, and limited parking for larger vehicles all favor compact vehicles rather than full-size trucks.The national average sits at 16.5% of all vehicles on the road being pickup trucks, according to iSeeCars studies based on FHWA registration data. Here's how the top 10 states stack up by pickup share: RealTruck.com States With the Highest Truck SalesTruck sales volume by state tracks closely with population, which is why Texas leads nationally in raw units sold. California, despite its reputation for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, is the second-largest vehicle market in the country by sheer volume—and trucks sell there in significant numbers even though they represent a smaller share of the overall market.Regional brand loyalties are a real and documented phenomenon in the truck market. According to a Motor Trend study, Ford's F-Series dominates nationally and is particularly strong across the South, Mountain West, and Midwest. Ram has historically performed well across the Southeast and Gulf Coast states. Chevrolet's Silverado has a strong presence in the Midwest, particularly in states with deep ties to General Motors manufacturing, such as Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. Toyota's Tundra and Tacoma punch above their weight on the West Coast and in Hawaii, where brand loyalty to Japanese-origin manufacturers runs deeper than in other regions.The full-size truck segment's regional distribution also reflects infrastructure and economic patterns. States with heavy construction, agriculture, and natural resource industries—Texas, Oklahoma, Montana, the Dakotas—have sustained truck demand driven by commercial and working use. States with growing Sun Belt metros—Arizona, Nevada, Tennessee, Georgia—have seen rising truck sales driven by population growth and a demographic that skews toward the truck-as-primary-vehicle model.Why Are Trucks So Popular in the U.S.?Pickups are no longer strictly work vehicles—they’re the ultimate do-it-all rig, capable of lugging the family around town, running errands, road tripping, and loading up supplies for the newest home renovation project.While still capable of heavy-duty work, modern pickups are packed with comfort, technology, and family-vehicle features. For this reason, they’re used predominantly as passenger cars in North America, representing about 16.5% of total vehicles sold in the United States.What Does This Mean for the American Truck Culture?That demographic shift from work trucks to passenger vehicles is considerable, and directly reflects a shift in consumer mindset that’s visible in the sales data. Texas ranks 19th in truck share despite being the biggest truck market in raw numbers—because of its large urban population of commuters and families. The states with the highest truck shares are precisely those where blue-collar labor and trades remain most relevant, such as Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and other rural states with unpaved roads and agricultural economies.Urban trucks are an issue the industry is actively navigating. Trucks continue to grow physically larger. Rather than investing in smaller pickups—aside from Ford with the Maverick—manufacturers have been pushing capability upward while adding the features that make a large truck livable as a daily driver, like adaptive cruise control, 360-degree cameras, and power running boards that make entry and exit practical for a vehicle that now sits significantly higher than a sedan.What hasn't changed is the relevance of American truck culture. In Wyoming or Montana, a truck is a tool. In suburban Texas or Georgia, it's an identity statement. In both cases, it's likely the top vehicle choice for the person driving it. People drive trucks because they like them and want to—which is why no other segment has come close to displacing it at the top of the American market for going on five consecutive decades.Top 10 Most Popular Trucks in AmericaTrucks are beloved in the United States—but how do the most popular stack up against one another? Stateside, the same general pickups sit at the top of the best sellers list—a trend that continues to this day. According to a study conducted by U.S. News, the most popular pickups in the US by sales—thus far in 2026—include the:Ford F-SeriesChevy SilveradoRam PickupGMC SierraToyota TacomaFord MaverickToyota TundraChevy ColoradoNissan FrontierFord RangerWhile slight variations have presented from year to year, the big three (Ford F-Series, Chevy Silverado, and Ram) always round out the top positions, followed by import and mid-size offerings.FAQsQ: What Is the Most Popular Pickup Truck in America?A: The Ford F-Series has been the most popular pickup truck in America for 48 consecutive years, through 2024, with 765,649 units sold that year. In 2025, it extended that streak to 49 years with 828,832 units sold—a new record. The Chevrolet Silverado is second, followed by the Ram 1500 in third.Q: Which State Has the Most Pickup Trucks per Capita?A: By pickup trucks as a share of all registered vehicles, Wyoming leads at 37.1%, followed by Montana at 34.7% and North Dakota at 31.6%, according to iSeeCars.Q: What State Has the Most Trucks Overall?A: Texas leads in raw truck registration numbers due to its large population and deep truck culture. However, Texas ranks only 19th when measuring trucks as a share of total registered vehicles—meaning its large overall vehicle fleet dilutes the percentage, even as the raw number remains the highest.Q: Are Truck Sales Increasing or Decreasing?A: Light truck sales—which include pickups, SUVs, and crossovers—continue to grow and now account for over 80% of new light vehicle sales in the U.S. Pickup-specific sales have seen some variation year to year, with the F-150 posting a 5% decline in 2024 before recovering strongly in 2025. The broader trend remains upward, with trucks and SUVs having displaced sedans as the dominant segment over the past two decades.Q: What Percentage of Vehicles Sold in the US Are Trucks?A: Pickup trucks specifically accounted for more than 20% of total new vehicle sales in the U.S. in 2024. When light trucks broadly—including SUVs and crossovers—are included, that figure rises to approximately 81% of all new light vehicles sold, according to Statista.This story was produced by RealTruck.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How scammers are already targeting NFL fans this season How scammers are already targeting NFL fans this seasonThe period between the Super Bowl and the first regular-season game always seems the longest for NFL fans. After minicamps, offseason intrigue, and, of course, the yearly edition of HBO’s Hard Knocks, the season’s kickoff is almost here.Unfortunately, scammers from across the world have been lying in wait. Between phony ticket sales and fake merchandising websites, the schemes are endless for America’s frenzied football fans.As you take in the 2026 football season, keep an eye out for the following scams. PeopleFinders provides tips on sniffing out these trick plays and stopping them before they start.For Scammers, Football Season = Fraud SeasonBehind every successful scam is some tenet of social engineering. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, for instance. That could manifest in a scam wherein a victim is told they have one hour to enter a parlay that’s guaranteed to pay out serious money. In another scheme, scammers might tell victims they have tickets to the big rivalry game at a steep discount, but supplies are running out fast.The enormous appetite Americans have for football means some people will go to desperate measures to see their favorite team play. Potential victims are also more inclined to let their guard down when they believe their wallet is about to get a lot fatter.4 Scams to Watch for During Football SeasonFootball season scams always seem to coalesce around these four types of schemes. Make sure your pocket awareness is set to 99 this year!1. Fake Ticket MarketplacesThe staggering amount of NFL games and available tickets makes this scam the most common during football season. To pull this off, scammers will create legitimate-looking websites that spoof Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, StubHub, VividSeats, and other online marketplaces.Red flag: The ticket seller asks you to pay with cryptocurrency, a wire transfer, gift cards, or some other method with few consumer protections.2. Fraudulent Fantasy LeaguesFantasy football is no longer limited to the cozy 10-manager leagues that stay within friend groups. Daily fantasy sports (DFS) and knockout leagues on FanDuel, DraftKings, and other gaming websites have transformed the pastime into a $7.22 billion industry.As fantasy players have access to more and more data, they’ve become comfortable with putting larger amounts of their own money on the line. Accordingly, scammers have begun creating fake fantasy leagues and keeping entry fees for themselves.Red flag: The fantasy league commissioner is vague on the payout terms and difficult to reach when you have questions.In a potential real-life example, the Missouri attorney general’s office opened an investigation into allegations of non-payment by ESPN personality Matt Miller. Multiple individuals have alleged that they were not compensated for their winnings after entering leagues commissioned by Miller on the fantasy football website Sleeper.Miller often asked entrants to pay fees on Venmo, Cash App, and other digital apps. Some fantasy managers who eventually received their payouts reported that they only did so after contacting Miller’s coworkers. The investigation has not resulted in criminal charges or lawsuits, but Miller is now on leave from his job at ESPN.3. Phishing SchemesPhishing is one of the most common scams because it’s so versatile. The scheme involves communications from scammers (emails and text messages, most commonly) that redirect internet users to scam websites. These websites impersonate trusted companies, government officials, and other entities.When scammers convince victims to enter sensitive information, they’ll use it to make purchases or sell it on the dark web. During football season, scammers often hit up potential victims with deeply discounted livestreams of their favorite teams. The streaming website, of course, turns out to be fake—but the scam is all too real.Red flag: Someone unexpectedly contacts you with a too-good-to-be-true offer.4. Fake Betting SitesThe explosion of the sports betting industry has been nothing short of astonishing. In 2025, Americans spent $166 billion on wagers, which was more than twice the amount the country collectively spent on movies, recorded music, books, and museums.Naturally, this enormous universe has attracted countless scammers and fraudsters. Some betting victims fall to phishing scams, while others get roped into these scams by viewing deepfakes of celebrities endorsing fraudulent betting websites.Red flag: The betting website makes claims of “guaranteed winnings” or “sure bets.”How to Protect Your Data (& Your Wallet)Preventing a sack on the football field means having great protection from your offensive line. If you want to protect your data and finances, you’re also going to need the right blocking schemes to protect against scammers and fraudsters.Here are some tips for staying away from football season scams:Don’t transmit personally sensitive information (credit card number, bank account password) over the internet. Just like coaches use coded signals to call offensive plays, don’t give away the game when you’re dealing with somebody you don’t trust!Call the verified phone number of a business or government organization that has purportedly contacted you.Enable two-factor authentication for important online accounts.Closely inspect URLs of football ticket marketplaces and fantasy sports websites.Run contact information through a trusted reverse phone lookup tool if you receive an unexpected call.If you believe you have made contact with a scammer, report them as soon as possible to the FTC. Contact your bank to put a hold on your accounts and, if necessary, cancel your debit and credit cards. Change your username and passwords if you believe they’ve fallen into the wrong hands.Don’t Let Scammers Intercept Your DataScams during football season are limited only by scammers’ imaginations. There are more opportunities than ever for these bad actors to contact potential victims and make their fraudulent pitch. From counterfeit team merchandise and tickets to fraudulent fantasy leagues and betting websites, the commodification of professional football means fans must practice vigilance at every turn.With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can keep scammers from attacking your blind side and wresting your data away from you. Here’s hoping the only disappointment you feel this season has to do with your favorite team’s performance on the field.This story was produced by PeopleFinders and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport man charged after allegedly fleeing to Mexico to avoid prosecution On Aug. 26, a Davenport man was arrested in Mexico and faces charges in Scott County District Court after police say he ran from felony charges for over a year.
	Andrew Tate is denied bail and will remain in jail during his extradition fight Prosecutors told the court that Andrew and Tristan Tate boasted about having multiple passports and flying on private jets. But the Tates' lawyers argued they were only playing a role for their fans.
	Davenport man arrested for allegedly sexually abusing a child A Davenport man was arrested on Wednesday for sexual abuse charges stemming from incidents between 2011 and 2013.
	30th anniversary of Trudy Appleby’s disappearance coverage to re-stream on KWQC+ KWQC’s special coverage of the 30th anniversary of Trudy Appleby’s disappearance will be re-streamed Wednesday.
	New York Fashion Week has become the biggest creator activation of the fall New York Fashion Week has become the biggest creator activation of the fallNew York Fashion Week starts Thursday with 70 shows and presentations on the official calendar, and most of the creators heading to the city will not be at any of them. One talent agency is sending 52 of its creators, with managers flying in to walk them from dinner to sponsored suite to launch. Another is bringing its entire staff, for the third year, to spend an afternoon with its roster and the brands that want to meet them. A dermatologist and two men from reality television are on one agency’s list alongside the fashion and beauty names. Sarah King, who runs the U.S. team at Shine Talent Group, calls the week her creators’ Super Bowl, and her team has spent the past month building schedules around it. Eight years ago, almost none of this existed, Net Influencer reports.It did not start this way Net Influencer Amanda Acevedo, director of talent at G&B Digital Management, has managed creators for almost eight years. When she started, a creator’s Fashion Week deal was an invitation, and getting one was the whole win. Now there is a fee to attend, a fee to walk in a show, and a fee for the posts afterward, “more in that $25,000 and up range.”“Before, it was the cool girls only,” says Sarah Boyd, partner, The Digital Dept. “If you did not get those invites, if you were not sitting front row at those events, it was very cliquey. You were either in or you were out.”The week itself had been shrinking. Designers had stopped showing in New York after the shows left Lincoln Center and Mercedes-Benz ended its sponsorship, and the lull is when creators arrived. Sandra Fernandez, director of PR and marketing at The Sociable Society, remembers it as the years when “Instagram became a thing” and the week “filled a bit of a gap” with new designers and returning ones.The New Cool KidsFor most of its history, a New York collection was next season’s, and the people in the front row were department store buyers placing orders. That is over, Boyd says. Brands now walk the current collection and want it posted “on LTK and you can buy it now.” She puts the return in one sentence: “One influencer sitting there posting about this skirt could move more than a full order at Nordstrom.” The show stopped selling to stores and started selling to shoppers, and once a post from the front row could sell the collection that night, the person who mattered most in that row was the one with the biggest audience of shoppers, and that was a creator.The shows also lost their press corps. Emily Fonda, co-founder and COO of The Sociable Society, says brands no longer have “an army of journalists to go out and cover all of these events,” so they rely on creators to do it. The brands themselves changed, too. The elite, luxury level is still there, with its top models and celebrities, but underneath it Fonda sees “this off-Broadway level, where more accessible brands are coming in and putting on shows.” Those brands want creators at their events because a celebrity is unlikely to partner with a mainstream brand.“If a brand is rude to a creator, the creator is going to tell their audience, and that is going to affect the brand’s sales,” Acevedo says. “Whether a brand was hesitant about a creator or not, there is really no option anymore. They make or break it now. I think it almost was forced.”Dinners, lists, and sponsored rooms Net Influencer The shows still anchor the week, and some creators still go for the front row. Boyd says a few of her clients are “hardcore fashion girls” who want to be at the shows and nowhere else. Most of what the agencies build for their creators, though, happens around the shows, at the events brands put on for the people in town. “Honestly, not many are attending the shows,” she says of her clients. “They are doing all of the parties.”The events are small. A dinner or a presentation runs to about 40 people with the founder or designer in the room, and the creators meet the brand rather than watch it. Fewer runway shows get staged than a decade ago, and Boyd puts that down to cost. The rooms that can hold a dinner are booked solid during the week, so some of those dinners now happen in other cities the rest of the year.“Sometimes talent will decide to go based on the amount of invites they have gotten,” King says. “It is really nice when brands send those invites out three months in advance.” The guest lists come from the agencies. Talent managers spend the summer filling requests from brands for creators who will be in town and pitching the ones who are coming, and a creator with a full schedule by early summer books the trip.A creator’s whole week can belong to one brand. The brand wants the getting-ready content, “whether it is their outfits or their makeup or the tools they are using at the hotel room, the drinks they are drinking on the go,” as Fonda puts it. Year-long ambassadors get brought to a run of events, and the videos count against deliverables already in the contract.Some creators are there on paid deals. The deal is an appearance, a shoot, and posts, at $25,000 and up, and it almost always goes to a creator the brand worked with earlier in the year. “Most of the partnerships that are paid for Fashion Week are a part two to a successful part one,” Acevedo says. This year hers are with a pharmaceutical company and with fashion and beauty brands.The agencies host rooms of their own. The Digital Dept.’s BRANDEdit runs two days at the end of the week, 150 creators by appointment from a waitlist of more than 500, with Comfrt as title sponsor alongside Clean & Clear, Zenni Optical, and Shokz. The Sociable Society hosts its roster and eight brand sponsors in a suite away from the shows. Who gets a slot depends on what a creator did with the last one. “Did they come last year and not share one thing, or did they come and do lots of content?” Boyd says. “We take that into consideration as opposed to who is the cool girl and who has the high following.”Beyond fashionA brand does not need a fashion story to be at Fashion Week. Fernandez says brands activate in New York that would never do the same in Paris or Milan, and Boyd’s sponsor list includes skincare, eyewear, and headphones. The budget can be small. “Even brands that are not fashion related at all are activating at Fashion Week,” she says. “You can hand out merch on the street. We have really small sponsorships.”Those brands are why the week keeps growing. Every mainstream brand that comes in brings more creators with it, Emily says, and she sees no end to that. The growth has started to spill out of New York, too: BRANDEdit has run in Nashville, and the dinners brands host during Fashion Week now turn up in other cities throughout the year. Boyd says she does not expect New York to narrow as that happens. “I do not see it going back to being exclusive. Paris and Milan still have that. New York, I see it widening to all types of creators.”Additional reporting by Ceci Carloni and Tamara BlazquezThis story was produced by Net Influencer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Mercer County man arrested after a man found dead in rural Aledo home A man was arrested Thursday on suspicion of homicide after a man was found dead inside his home in rural Aledo on the night of Tuesday, Sept. 8.
	Illinois National Guard member dead after crash in Kewanee An Illinois National Guard member died in a crash over the weekend in Kewanee.
	Should you shave before or after a shower? Should you shave before or after a shower?Even if you’ve nailed your shower routine, and you’ve worked out whether you’re a blast-the-most-recent-hyperpop-release or podcast kinda guy, you might still be unsure about the best time to shave. Should you shave before or after showers? What’s actually better? Should you even care?Grab your shower cap. AXE, the deodorant brand for guys, shares tips on choosing whether to shower or shave first.Shaving Before vs. After a ShowerHere’s a breakdown of the pros of shaving before and after.Pros of shaving before a showerShaving before a shower might not be ideal for sensitive skin, but it does have its perks. You can wash away all that post-shave debris and discomfort with a refreshing shower. If you have to dry shave, follow up with a hydrating body wash.Pros of shaving after a showerFor ultimate comfort and a smoother shave, shaving after you shower allows warm water and steam to open up your pores and soften hair follicles, making for a closer shave. Plus, you can cleanse and exfoliate your face in the shower, saving time once you're out. Warm water softens hair and reduces razor drag, which makes post-shower shaving a winner for minimizing irritation.Best choice for most skin typesFor most skin types, shaving after a shower is the better option. The warm water preps your skin and hair, reducing the risk of irritation.When a before-shower shave makes senseSometimes, you just need a quick shave before a shower—like when you're in a rush and have to rinse off fast. Just be sure to moisturize your skin afterward.When an after-shower shave is betterIf you have sensitive skin or want a closer shave, waiting until after your shower is better.The Ideal Shaving RoutineStep 1: Shower prepUse warm water to open pores and soften hairCleanse your skin Step 2: Pre-shave prepGently exfoliateApply shaving cream or gelChoose a clean, sharp razorStep 3: ShaveShave with the grainRinse the razor every few strokesReapply and lather if needed Step 4: Post-shave careRinse with cool waterMoisturizeAvoid products with alcohol in them Area-Specific Shaving GuidelinesShaving your faceYour face is front-row seating, so treat it right. Start with warm water to soften hair and open pores, then use a quality shaving gel or cream to create slip and reduce drag. Shave with the grain using light, controlled strokes. No pressing like you’re trying to scrape off paint. Around the jawline, slow down and use shorter strokes since that’s where irritation loves to show up. Rinse your blade often to keep it clean and sharp.To prevent ingrown hairs, exfoliate a couple of times a week and avoid going over the same spot over and over. Finish with a soothing, alcohol-free moisturizer to keep your skin calm and camera-ready.Shaving your underarmsUnderarm skin is thinner and more sensitive, which means it reacts if you rush the job. Always shower first and use body wash to soften the hair before you even think about shaving. Raise your arm and shave in multiple directions, as underarm hair grows every which way. Keep your strokes light. After shaving, pat dry and give your skin a minute before applying deodorant or antiperspirant. Freshly shaved skin absorbs product more easily, so using a gentle formula can help you avoid stinging and irritation.Shaving below the beltIf you're going to shave down under, hygiene is nonnegotiable. Shower first and trim longer hairs before using a razor. For many guys, a trimmer with a guard is a safer, low-risk move. If you prefer a razor, use plenty of shaving gel and move slowly with the grain. Tight skin is easier to shave, so use your free hand to pull the skin tight. To prevent razor burn, don’t rush and don’t go over the same area many times. Skip shaving if you already have cuts, bumps, or irritation.Shaving chest or body hairChest and body hair are usually thicker, so prep matters. Warm water and body wash help soften the hair and reduce tugging. Use long, steady strokes and rinse your blade frequently to avoid buildup. If you’re tackling a larger area, trim first to make the shave smoother and more controlled. Take your time and check your progress, so you don’t miss areas and end up with patches. Finish with a lightweight moisturizer to keep your skin smooth.Quick Tips for Your Best Shave EverUse warm water: Prep your skin and soften hair with warm water before you start shaving.Choose the right shaving cream or gel: Pick a formula that matches your skin type so your razor glides, not drags.Replace razors often: Sharp blades mean less irritation and a closer, cleaner shave.Always moisturize after shaving: Lock in hydration and help your skin recover post-shave. FAQsWhy is wet shaving better for sensitive skin?Wet shaving softens hair and reduces razor drag, making it ideal for sensitive skin.What if you can’t shower before shaving?Use a wet towel with warm water to prep your skin if you can't shower first. Then apply pre-shave cream to soften the hair. Proper prep reduces the risk of irritation and razor burn.How long should you shower before shaving?A quick 3–5-minute shower is enough to prep your skin. Too long and it can dry out your skin, which makes shaving less effective.Does cold-water shaving work?Cold-water shaving can work, but it may cause more irritation.So, should men shave before or after a shower? For most guys, post-shower is the clear winner. Warm water softens hair, opens pores, and helps your razor glide instead of drag. This means fewer bumps, less irritation, and a smoother finish. But if you need to shave before you shower, just make sure you prep properly and moisturize your skin afterward. Remember: prep, sharp blades, light pressure, and proper aftercare.This story was produced by AXE and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How small businesses can unlock the full power of CRM reporting How small businesses can unlock the full power of CRM reportingMany small business sales teams have a wealth of data stored in their sales software. Teams with access to CRM reporting tools can turn that data into useful reports that provide genuine insight and improve decision-making.CRM reporting is the use of customer relationship management (CRM) software to monitor, evaluate, and visualize sales activities and outcomes. Advanced systems with a broader toolset also let you generate marketing and engagement reports.A good sales report could provide anything from a clear overview of where the business’s revenue comes from to individual sales rep performance metrics. The key to an effective report is knowing which data to use and how to structure it.In this guide, Nutshell details how small business sales teams can get the most from their CRM reporting tools, including which metrics to track and how to build a reporting dashboard your team will regularly use.Key takeawaysActivity metrics (number of calls logged or emails sent) measure team effort, but tell you nothing about sales revenue.To ensure an effective sales dashboard, limit KPIs to a few meaningful, outcome-driven metrics, including win rate, pipeline coverage, lead response time, and deal velocity.A sales dashboard with metrics discussed at regular team meetings and tied to resultant actions influences real decisions.Why do many sales dashboards underperform?The primary reasons for poor sales dashboard performance are usually metric selection and workflow disconnection.When sales teams select the wrong metrics to track, their dashboards aren’t as useful as they could be. You’ll often find teams defaulting to tracking activity volume metrics, such as the number of calls logged, emails sent, contacts added, etc. They’re easy to capture, and totals always increase, so they make you feel like you’re progressing.The real problem with tracking activity metrics is that you’re measuring effort instead of outcomes. Metrics that help you track outcomes can tell you whether or not you’re going to hit your monthly goals.Reports that don’t align with your workflows may not be included in recurring meetings or considered in decision-making because the data isn’t directly connected. A dashboard populated with misaligned data becomes more of a decoration than a useful tool.When selecting metrics for your sales reporting dashboard, ask this question as an easy test: If the number drops by 20% tomorrow, will my team react and adjust? If it’s a yes, keep that data where you can see it.Which KPIs belong on a sales KPI dashboard?Four KPIs give sales teams a consistent view of their pipeline health:Win rate: Your win rate is the percentage of pipeline deals won over a specified period, and it lets you know whether your sales process is effective. On average, B2B sales teams experience a win rate of about 21%, according to research by HubSpot in 2025.Pipeline coverage: This is the ratio of your open pipeline value to your sales revenue target. It’s a KPI that gives teams a forecast of their pipeline health. Optifai’s 2026 study reveals a reliable minimum gross ratio is around 2.5 to 3 times the target for SMBs, 3 to 4 times for mid-market businesses, and 4 to 5 times the target for enterprise companies.Lead response time: The time it takes for a rep to make first contact with a lead after it enters the pipeline is your lead response time. It’s a KPI that any team can improve on with the right approach, and keeping your response times low can have a positive impact on your sales conversion rates. Research done by Optifai in 2026 indicates that B2B teams that respond to leads within 5 minutes achieve a 32% close rate on average.Deal velocity: Deal velocity measures how long it takes to close a deal from the time it enters your pipeline. It helps teams pinpoint pipeline bottlenecks and high-impact areas for improvement. Every business’s deal velocity will be different, but you can still track your own baseline and monitor improvements over time. Nutshell How do you build a dashboard that your sales team will use?Consistent dashboard usage is all about instilling the habit using these three tactics:Link it to a key question: The dashboards teams refer to most often answer questions they regularly ask and directly affect their core objectives. Examples include “Where are our deals stalling?” and “Are sales on track for the month?”Make outcomes lead to action: Reports should be reviewed at a regular cadence, and outcomes should result in teams leaving the review with a list of specific actions.Tie it to a calendar event: Instead of creating a separate meeting to review reports, incorporate relevant reviews into existing meetings. That way, it’s easier to create the habit, but also allows teams to bring up-to-date KPIs into their discussions and decision-making.What is AI-driven CRM reporting, and how does it work?AI-powered reporting is fast becoming a standard across modern CRM platforms and comes in two distinct forms.Built-in AI reportingSome modern CRMs can provide detailed reports from your data by prompting the system in plain language. For instance, say you wanted a report illustrating the number and value of sales for each team member over the quarter. In this case, you could simply ask, “Show me sales by rep this quarter,” and receive your answer in chart form in seconds.Sales teams can also use AI tools in platforms like these to surface specific insights about their data, including anomalies, pipeline gaps, and stalled deals. These capabilities put useful, actionable data in the hands of each rep.AI and MCP integration reportingAnother way CRMs allow you to extract insights through AI is via MCP (Model Context Protocol) integration. MCP integration, in this context, is the ability to connect an AI platform, such as Claude and ChatGPT, directly to your CRM and use that platform for conversational data lookups, multistep workflow automation, and sales guidance.On the reporting side, sales teams can use the MCP integration to quickly surface a broad range of useful data points, like deal queries, cross-object analysis, churn risk, competitive tracking, and more.The reporting habits that separate growing sales teams from stagnant teamsCRM reporting is at its most effective when you’ve pared the data points down to just the most meaningful KPIs that actually influence core decisions and review them regularly. Four of the most useful metrics for small businesses to track are win rate, pipeline coverage, lead response time, and deal velocity because they give teams optimal pipeline clarity.AI reporting tools are making it even easier for teams to leverage and understand their data. That said, teams getting the most from their CRM data are those that have created a regular habit around their reporting and ensured that the metrics drive the decisions they make.This story was produced by Nutshell and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	YWCA Quad Cities to host diaper drive The YWCA Quad Cities will host the drive from Sept. 14-20.
	Rock Island Arsenal hosting Oktoberfest Experience Oktoberfest at Rock Island Arsenal! Arsenal Oktoberfest will be held on Friday, Sept. 18, from 4–9 p.m. on the lawn of historic Quarters One. Admission is free and open to the public, starting at 3 p.m. Visitor passes are not necessary to enter Arsenal for the event, but guests must present a valid driver’s [...]
	As 1099 work grows, millions of Americans face a different tax system As 1099 work grows, millions of Americans face a different tax systemMore American workers are earning their income through a 1099 form instead of a W-2. In July 2023, the most recent year the Bureau of Labor Statistics published a full count, 7.4% of the workforce, about 11.9 million people, worked as independent contractors in their main job. That status comes with more control over schedules and clients, but it also comes with a different set of tax rules, ones that catch many new independent workers off guard, reports 1-800Accountant, a virtual accounting firm for small businesses,.A Workforce Shift With New Rules AttachedA federal change taking effect this year is reshaping part of that landscape. The Internal Revenue Service raised the reporting threshold for Form 1099-NEC and Form 1099-MISC from $600 to $2,000 per payee per year, effective for payments made on or after January 1, 2026. Businesses no longer have to send a 1099 form for smaller payments to a given contractor. Independent workers still owe tax on every dollar they earn, however, whether or not they receive a form documenting it.A Proposed Labor Rule Could Add MomentumSeparately, the U.S. Department of Labor proposed a rule in February 2026 that would make it easier for businesses to classify a worker as an independent contractor rather than an employee under federal wage and hour law. The proposal would weigh two factors most heavily: how much control a worker has over their own work, and their opportunity for profit or loss based on their own initiative. Public comments on the proposal closed in late April 2026, and a final rule had not been issued as of this writing.Why Some Employers Consider the SwitchClassifying a worker as a 1099 contractor removes several costs a business carries for a W-2 employee, including the employer's share of Social Security and Medicare tax, unemployment insurance, and benefits such as health coverage. Those savings, paired with the flexibility a finalized DOL rule could provide, give some businesses a reason to lean on contractor relationships where the underlying work allows for it.What Independent Status Costs at Tax TimeFor the worker, the arrangement flips who is responsible for paying certain taxes throughout the year. A W-2 employee has income tax withheld from every paycheck, and the employer automatically pays half of the Social Security and Medicare tax. A 1099 worker receives the full payment with nothing withheld and covers both halves through self-employment tax: 15.3% of net earnings, made up of 12.4% for Social Security, up to the 2026 wage base of $184,500, plus 2.9% for Medicare, which has no cap. Independent workers with net earnings above $200,000 also owe an additional 0.9% Medicare tax. Because nothing is withheld during the year, most independent workers are expected to make quarterly estimated payments rather than settling the full bill in April.The Range of Earnings Behind the AveragesThe tax rate is the same regardless of income, but the income itself varies widely by industry. An analysis of self-reported revenue and expense data from thousands of 1099 businesses, freelancers, and independent contractors conducted by 1-800Accountant found in its 1099 Earnings Report that typical annual revenue across 31 industries ranged from about $850 to $77,000, with a midpoint near $19,200. Wholesale and distribution, healthcare, and construction ranked among the highest-earning categories in the analysis, while publishing, apparel, and e-commerce ranked among the lowest. In 10 of the 31 industries measured, the report found that the typical business reported more in expenses than revenue, meaning it operated at a loss on paper.That spread matters for tax planning. A self-employment tax bill calculated on a five-figure income looks very different from one calculated on six figures, and an independent worker whose income swings from a strong year to a weak one has less certainty to plan around than a salaried employee does.As the reporting threshold changes and the classification rules shift, the number of workers filing a Schedule C instead of a W-2 is likely to keep growing. For many of them, the biggest adjustment is not the new invoice or the new client relationship. It is discovering, often at tax time, that no one is withholding money on their behalf anymore.This story was produced by 1-800Accountant and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Too sick for school? How to make the call in 4 minutes Too sick for school? How to make the call in 4 minutesLunches are packed. Someone can’t find a shoe. And then your kid appears in the doorway looking a little gray around the edges, and you have about four minutes to decide whether they can or can’t go to school. Doctronic shares tips on making the decision.Key takeawaysThree questions settle most mornings: fever, stomach symptoms, or too unwell to get through the dayA fever is 100.4°F or higher, and 24 hours fever-free without medication is the standard for returningMedicating a fever and sending them anyway usually ends with a call from the school by lunchRunny noses and mild lingering coughs are almost always fine to sendSchool policies are often stricter than medical guidance, so check yours before the first sick dayThe Three Questions to AskRun these in order. They resolve most mornings without much agonizing.First, is there a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea? Any one of those is an automatic stay home. Second, could they actually get through a school day, meaning sit up, focus, eat lunch, and handle recess? Third, are they likely to hand this to twenty classmates? A yes to any of the three settles it. A no to all three usually means they are fine to go.The Clear Stay-Home SymptomsA fever means 100.4°F or higher. Most schools ask for 24 hours fever-free without fever-reducing medication before returning, and that last part matters more than parents expect.Dosing a child with acetaminophen and sending them in rarely works. The medicine wears off midmorning, the fever comes back, and you get the phone call anyway. It is worth knowing what actually brings a fever down and how long to expect it to last. Vomiting and diarrhea follow the same 24-hour rule. A child can go hours without throwing up simply because nothing has gone in, so wait for food to stay down before you call it.The Gray Zone, Which Is Mostly FineHere is the reassuring part. Most of what makes you hesitate does not require a sick day.A runny nose on its own is not a reason to stay home. Neither is the dry cough hanging around at the end of a cold, or the sneezing that shows up every September with ragweed. If there is no fever, they are eating and drinking normally, and they seem like themselves, send them. Contagiousness usually peaks early and fades well before symptoms do, which is why how long you stay contagious does not match how long you sound sick.What Needs a Call, Not Just a Sick DaySome symptoms are less about attendance and more about getting someone to look. Doctronic A sore throat with fever is worth checking, since strep needs treatment and will not clear on its own. Red, goopy eyes are another one, and pink eye is often assessed without leaving the house.Getting an Answer Before the Office OpensPediatric offices open at nine. Your decision happens at seven.That gap is where most sick-day guesswork lives. A few minutes of questions can tell you whether this is a rest-and-fluids morning or something that needs a closer look, and here is how pediatric telehealth works alongside your regular pediatrician. One last thing worth doing before you need it: Read your school's actual sick policy. Districts are frequently stricter than medical guidance, and it is better to learn that in August than at 7:15 a.m. on a Tuesday.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat temperature counts as a fever?100.4°F or higher is the usual threshold. Most schools ask that a child be fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning, though your district may word it differently.My child threw up once and seems fine now. Can they go?Give it time before deciding. A child can go hours without vomiting simply because they have not eaten. Most schools ask for 24 hours clear of vomiting and diarrhea before returning.Is a runny nose or mild cough enough to stay home?Usually not. If there is no fever, they are eating and drinking normally, and they seem like themselves, a lingering cold or allergy symptoms are generally fine to send with.Do they always need to see someone every time they stay home?Many common illnesses just need rest and fluids. A visit makes sense when symptoms are severe, unusual, not improving, or when something like strep or an eye infection may need treatment.The Bottom LineMost sick day decisions come down to three questions. Is there a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea? Could they realistically get through a school day? Are they likely to spread something? A yes to any of them means staying home, and everything else is usually fine to send. This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Aledo man charged with homicide in Mercer County death An Aledo man has been charged in connection with a death in Mercer County Wednesday.
	After 15 years, Two Sisters Restaurant in Milan to transform into Flip's Pancake House The restaurant will remain open till Sunday, Sept. 13, with construction set to begin Monday.
	Aledo man arrested in connection with Mercer County death A man from Aledo has been arrested in connection with a death near Matherville, according to a news release from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office. The Mercer County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call from a residence in rural Aledo, near Matherville, regarding a death on September 8 at about 8:32 p.m. Deputies responded to [...]
	Programming Alert: News at 6 p.m. to stream on KWQC+ The news at 6 p.m. will be livestreamed on KWQC+ Wednesday evening.
	The 5 stages of a remodel: Keys to a successful project The 5 stages of a remodel: Keys to a successful projectOnce you’ve hired your remodeling team and signed the contracts, it’s time for the work to begin. A major renovation generally moves through five stages, although the schedule and sequence will vary by project. Understanding what happens at each stage can help you prepare for disruptions, ask informed questions and keep track of decisions, costs and deadlines. Digital tools can also make it easier to follow the project’s progress and stay informed along the way. This guide from Houzz explains what you can expect.1. PlanningThoughtful planning sets the foundation for a successful remodel, and it’s also the stage that has evolved most in recent years. With your remodeler, contractor, designer or architect, you'll define the scope, budget and priorities of the project. This may involve in-person meetings or — especially if you're collaborating from afar — video calls. It's important to be realistic about your goals, expectations and budget, including any wish-list items and must-haves. It can be wise to give your budget a 10% cushion to allow for unexpected changes.Struggling to picture the finished space is one of the more common early hurdles. In a 2025 Houzz survey of U.S. homeowners, 15% reported having difficulty visualizing their project's outcome before work began. That's where 3D floor plans, virtual walk-throughs and AI-assisted rendering tools now come in. Many designers use them to offer a realistic preview, so you can see layouts, finishes and lighting before a single change is made. Sharing inspiration images and ideabooks is a great way to convey your vision, and digital mood boards make it easy for you and your designer to stay aligned on products and materials in real time.Two other planning-phase pain points showed up repeatedly in the survey: 40% of homeowners said finding a pro they trust was a top challenge, and 32% said getting an estimate or proposal with enough detail was difficult. Both issues are pushing the industry toward more digital-first solutions. Online reviews and recommendations (cited by 67% of homeowners as among the most important factors in choosing a pro) now often shape the shortlist before a homeowner ever picks up the phone, while itemized, digital estimates are replacing handwritten quotes.Your pro will also establish a schedule at this point, though keep in mind that delays can happen, such as from unexpected inclement weather. A growing number of pros now manage schedules, selections and updates through project management software and client portals, which help keep all the details and any changes to the design or timeline transparent and easy to track for everyone involved. These connected tools don't just keep you informed as the homeowner, they also help your project team stay aligned, document decisions and keep the remodel moving forward with everyone on the same page.Key to success: Clear, increasingly tech-enabled communication2. PermittingNot every project requires obtaining permits. But depending on the type and scope of your project, you may need to secure permission from local government agencies (such as the department of buildings) for structural, electrical, plumbing or other work. Your pro will likely handle permitting for you, if needed, to ensure that all work completed meets the relevant building codes. A growing number of municipalities now offer online permitting portals, which can speed up submissions and status checks, though total review times still vary widely by location and project scope.If your project is small and fairly simple, permits might come through in as little as a week or two; bigger or more complex projects can take up to a few months.Key to success: Patience3. Site PrepDepending on the nature of your project, site prep may involve demolition, such as breaking down walls, as well as removing furniture, fixtures and flooring. It may mean grading or leveling areas, shoring up a foundation or cleaning. It likely also will involve determining where to store the project materials and setting up features for safety and comfort, such as sheeting to keep dust and debris localized to the work area.Think ahead of time about the disruption your project may cause to your daily life, such as noise, interruptions, and the shutting off of water and power, and plan for relocating any activities that you normally do in the area. For example, if you won't have access to your kitchen, consider setting up a microwave and an eating area in another room. For a major remodel, you may even consider staying off-site for a portion of the project. And if you have children and/or pets, work with your pros to figure out how to keep them safely out of the work zone.Keys to success: Adjusting living and working arrangements Houzz; Legacy Builders & Design Inc. 4. ConstructionIf you’re undertaking a major remodel, structural and framing work will typically come first, such as adding walls or support posts or enlarging doorways. Next, your pro will complete the rough-in phase for electrical, mechanical and plumbing systems. Elements such as cabinetry and flooring generally follow, along with finishing work like painting, sanding and staining, and time for materials to cure.As the work progresses, material availability, inspections, site conditions and design decisions may lead to scheduling adjustments. Clear, timely updates can make those changes easier to navigate. In fact, in the same 2025 survey, 44% of homeowners say timeline changes and staying on schedule can be challenging, while 21% have difficulty tracking the budget and expenses over time.Before approving a change order, talk with your pro about how it will affect both the schedule and the budget. Many pros use project management software to share updates, document decisions and give homeowners a current view of costs and timing throughout the project.Keys to success: Visibility and flexibility5. FinishingWith all the elements in place, you'll be very close to enjoying your newly redone space. As the project winds down and the team handles smaller details (finishing trimwork, touching up paint scuffs, adjusting alignments, etc.), create a punch list of any detail that may need more attention, no matter how small. The team will do a walk-through and have their own punch list, but recording everything can help ease your mind.The punch list meeting between you, your designer and any contractors will likely take place about a week or two before the finalization date, to allow time for handling any remaining tasks. As the project wraps up, your pro may also provide warranty information, care instructions, product documentation and other project records so you have everything you need to maintain your newly completed space. And after all the work is done, your remodeling team should handle cleanup; consider ahead of time where you will store or donate any extra materials such as paint, tiles or wood planks.Also, as you're immersed in your new space, consider leaving a detailed review of your experience for your team members. Per the 2025 Houzz survey, recommendations and reviews are among the most important factors homeowners weigh when choosing a pro, cited by 67% of respondents. And 83% of pros said referrals and word of mouth meaningfully contribute to their business. A specific, candid review can help other homeowners make a more informed decision.Keys to success: Attention to detail and building goodwillMethodology: Data for the 2025 Houzz survey was collected through a questionnaire emailed to registered Houzz users in June 2025. The 110-question survey was completed by 2,904 qualified respondents, all of whom reported being 18 or older, owning their home, and having completed a remodel or addition in the previous 12 months, currently working on one, or planning to begin one within the next three months. Final data were weighted to align with the Houzz user population, using weights derived from the annual Houzz & Home Study.This story was produced by Houzz and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Turf battle in the NFL: Natural vs. artificial grass Turf battle in the NFL: Natural vs. artificial grassAs the NFL season opens, the “grass vs. turf” debate is heated this year, especially after the World Cup required seven stadiums to replace their artificial turf with real grass for a few weeks of soccer matches this summer.For NFL players, the issue is safety.“The cost of doing nothing is paid for by players’ bodies,” Green Bay Packers linebacker Zaire Franklin posted on X. “Make grass mandatory. We’re #WorthTheCost.”“If stadiums can make grass work for the World Cup, they can make it work for NFL players,” Washington Commanders tackle Laremy Tunsil posted on X.LawnStarter has the story of how the NFL drifted to plastic, why football players are fighting to return to grass, and which stadiums use artificial turf vs. natural grass today.Key TakeawaysNational Football League Players Association (NFLPA) data shows players suffer 28% more non-contact lower-body injuries and 69% more foot/ankle injuries on turf than on grass.The 2026 World Cup forced seven NFL turf stadiums to install natural grass to meet FIFA's standards.The World Cup conversion renewed players’ call for permanent grass fields under the current #WorthTheCost campaign.Which NFL Stadiums Use Grass vs. TurfFor the 2026 season, NFL stadiums are split roughly evenly between natural grass and artificial turf.The seven World Cup stadiums that switched to grass for soccer have ripped that up, and the artificial turf is back for football. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills have a new stadium with natural grass, bringing to 16 the stadiums with grass vs. 14 with artificial turf.Is that grass natural, artificial turf, or some hybrid? On your big-screen TV, they look nearly identical, and you most likely cannot tell the difference.NFL players, though, can tell the difference. The debate over natural vs. artificial grass, and the growing pile of injury claims, has pushed players in favor of grass.Natural grass NFL stadiumsClimate and stadium design help determine which grass species and support systems crews use:Warm climates: Most natural-grass NFL fields use Bermudagrass because it’s dense, durable, and heat-loving.Cooler-climates: Stadiums install Kentucky bluegrass or a Bermuda/ryegrass blend to survive the fall weather.Hybrid natural grass: A small number of fields reinforce a living grass root zone with synthetic fibers, improving stability while retaining natural grass at the surface. LawnStarter Artificial turf stadiumsConcerts and other events are the main reason multi-use stadiums choose turf. It tolerates stage loads and foot traffic grass can't, but those same events compact infill, scuff fibers, and create spot repairs. LawnStarter How the NFL Drifted From Grass to TurfThe first sports artificial playing surface debuted on the infield of the Astrodome in 1966 after the Houston Astros learned in 1965 that grass would not grow well indoors.The AstroTurf infield looked green, but it had none of the forgiveness that grass did. Some players found that the artificial turf gave them more traction, but that traction came at the cost of the field’s surface being much harder.Both in baseball and football, knee and leg injuries spiked as teams transitioned from grass to artificial turf.Artificial turf and natural grass systems have both improved in the past half-century. FieldTurf and Helias Matrix turf are just two of the big names in artificial turf at NFL stadiums.Today’s synthetic systems are rated by speed and firmness, and makers say they’re easier on the body than older versions.The Injury Case Against TurfAt 2022’s Super Bowl, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during the second quarter. The field was artificial turf.The injury raised concerns about the venue, the Rams’ SoFi Stadium. That’s because Beckham’s injury came when the cleats on Beckham’s left foot got caught in SoFi’s artificial turf. His ACL gave way.Artificial turf has a troubling history at all levels of play.Using the NFL’s own injury reports from 2012-2018, the NFL Players Association found players have a 28% higher rate of non-contact lower-extremity injuries on artificial turf, including a 69% higher rate of non-contact foot/ankle injuries.A 2019 study out of Cleveland-based University Hospitals said that high school players — boys and girls — playing sports on turf fields suffered 58% more injuries than those playing on natural grass fields.David Shoop, founder of Shoop, A Professional Law Corporation, in Beverly Hills, California, says that these injury discrepancies often become the center of product liability cases.“Injury litigation involving athletic surfaces often turns on the same mechanical questions: how much the surface grips an athlete’s cleats, how much force it returns to the body, and whether the field performs as intended under real playing conditions,” Shoop says.“Whether the product is synthetic turf, protective equipment, or another athletic surface, the legal analysis focuses on objective evidence: testing data, maintenance history, industry standards, and whether the risks were reasonably understood and addressed,” Shoop says.Players and Execs Make the Case for GrassIn 2022, grass seed maker Pennington took to the Super Bowl ad airwaves to make its case for a return to natural turf with a #FlipTheTurf petition. The campaign brought attention to the issue.While the company’s move would seem to be a good business ploy, the players’ motivation seems to come from self-preservation.For years, NFL players have been openly pleading for a return to grass. San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle went on Twitter to write, “Artificial turf feels like playing on cement,” linking it with a #FlipTheTurf hashtag. Courtesy of LawnStarter Source: XThe NFLPA has made all-grass fields a priority. Management’s counter is practical: Artificial turf can be used more often and maintained more cheaply, especially in domes and multi-use stadiums.J.C. Tretter, the Cleveland Browns center who currently serves as the executive director of the NFL Players Association, plays home games on Kentucky bluegrass at Huntington Bank Field.“Our occupation is dangerous enough,” Tretter says, adding that a move to all-grass fields is one of the players’ key issues. Courtesy of LawnStarter Even some front offices agree with the players.Kansas City Chiefs President Mark Donovan says the team’s new stadium is being built so it can have either a grass field or artificial turf. He says the preference is for grass, but the stadium isn’t expected to open until 2031.“If you're asking me today to bet, I feel pretty strongly that we're going to be playing on natural grass,” Donovan told ChiefsWire in late July.The #WorthTheCost Campaign#WorthTheCost is the latest NFL player-led message.The campaign surged this summer during the World Cup, when NFL players saw stadiums that normally use artificial turf install grass for the soccer matches. The NFLPA said the temporary fields showed that owners can provide natural grass when they decide it is worth the investment.Kittle also renewed his push during the tournament. He said the World Cup grass conversions showed the league could make grass work in any stadium, adding that players’ bodies are “their business” and that the NFL should choose to invest in them, according to ESPN. Courtesy of LawnStarter Source: XThe Cost of Artificial Turf vs. Natural GrassFor NFL owners, the hesitation to switch permanently largely comes down to cost and versatility:Natural grass costs: Maintaining a natural grass field runs $1 million or more annually with mid-season sod replacements adding $250,000 to $500,000 per swap.Artificial turf costs: Synthetic NFL fields require far less routine upkeep, running roughly $15,000 to $25,000 per year.Here's what each surface actually requires: LawnStarter Notes::NFL venues layer significant additional costs on top of this baseline including SubAir systems, hydronic heating, grow lights, and full-time grounds crew salaries.* Range reflects two different replacement scenarios found in LawnStarter’s sources: The low end is a carpet-and-infill-only replacement over an existing base, while the high end is a full new installation including base and drainage work. Actual cost depends on whether the base/drainage system is being reused or rebuilt.How the 2026 World Cup Changed the Playing FieldThe biggest grass requirement didn’t come from the NFL. It came from FIFA.Eleven NFL stadiums hosted matches this summer at the 2026 World Cup. FIFA required natural grass, meaning the seven host stadiums that normally use synthetic turf had to install temporary grass fields: MetLife Stadium, SoFi Stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, AT&T Stadium, NRG Stadium, Gillette Stadium, and Lumen Field.The process demonstrated that grass can be installed in domes, covered stadiums, and heavily used venues. Depending on the stadium, organizers widened the playing area, removed or covered synthetic surfaces, and brought in specially grown grass systems for the tournament.Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field, San Francisco’s Levi’s Stadium, and Kansas City’s GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium already used grass, so they didn’t need to convert from a regular artificial NFL surface.The post-tournament reality was less encouraging for players. AT&T Stadium and the other six began removing the grass as soon as the World Cup matches were over.Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said the team had “no belief that it’s any safer to play on a grass field or a turf,” adding that artificial turf improves the economics of hosting events, according to ESPN.That decision became a powerful talking point for the NFLPA: The league’s stadiums proved they could accommodate grass, but most reverted to turf for NFL use.Looking to the Future of Sports FieldsThe NFL has said every stadium will need a league-approved playing surface by the 2028 season. The NFL is creating a list of approved options that includes natural grass, hybrid, and synthetic systems.Teams will be free to choose any surface they want, as long as it is on that approved list.NFL field director Nick Pappas has described the league’s goal as finding surfaces that perform more like grass, with controlled traction, firmness, and energy return. The league has used laboratory and on-field testing to evaluate those traits.Players see the issue differently, and their position is simple: If owners can install grass temporarily for a global soccer tournament, they can install it permanently for the NFL players whose careers depend on those fields.For the 2026 NFL season though, the stadiums that had artificial turf before the World Cup have it back, and the Buffalo Bills have already replaced their new stadium’s grass field. That shows the challenges and costs of maintaining natural grass sports fields.This story was produced by LawnStarter and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The 5 stages of a remodel: Keys to a successful project The 5 stages of a remodel: Keys to a successful projectOnce you’ve hired your remodeling team and signed the contracts, it’s time for the work to begin. A major renovation generally moves through five stages, although the schedule and sequence will vary by project. Understanding what happens at each stage can help you prepare for disruptions, ask informed questions and keep track of decisions, costs and deadlines. Digital tools can also make it easier to follow the project’s progress and stay informed along the way. This guide from Houzz explains what you can expect.1. PlanningThoughtful planning sets the foundation for a successful remodel, and it’s also the stage that has evolved most in recent years. With your remodeler, contractor, designer or architect, you'll define the scope, budget and priorities of the project. This may involve in-person meetings or — especially if you're collaborating from afar — video calls. It's important to be realistic about your goals, expectations and budget, including any wish-list items and must-haves. It can be wise to give your budget a 10% cushion to allow for unexpected changes.Struggling to picture the finished space is one of the more common early hurdles. In a 2025 Houzz survey of U.S. homeowners, 15% reported having difficulty visualizing their project's outcome before work began. That's where 3D floor plans, virtual walk-throughs and AI-assisted rendering tools now come in. Many designers use them to offer a realistic preview, so you can see layouts, finishes and lighting before a single change is made. Sharing inspiration images and ideabooks is a great way to convey your vision, and digital mood boards make it easy for you and your designer to stay aligned on products and materials in real time.Two other planning-phase pain points showed up repeatedly in the survey: 40% of homeowners said finding a pro they trust was a top challenge, and 32% said getting an estimate or proposal with enough detail was difficult. Both issues are pushing the industry toward more digital-first solutions. Online reviews and recommendations (cited by 67% of homeowners as among the most important factors in choosing a pro) now often shape the shortlist before a homeowner ever picks up the phone, while itemized, digital estimates are replacing handwritten quotes.Your pro will also establish a schedule at this point, though keep in mind that delays can happen, such as from unexpected inclement weather. A growing number of pros now manage schedules, selections and updates through project management software and client portals, which help keep all the details and any changes to the design or timeline transparent and easy to track for everyone involved. These connected tools don't just keep you informed as the homeowner, they also help your project team stay aligned, document decisions and keep the remodel moving forward with everyone on the same page.Key to success: Clear, increasingly tech-enabled communication2. PermittingNot every project requires obtaining permits. But depending on the type and scope of your project, you may need to secure permission from local government agencies (such as the department of buildings) for structural, electrical, plumbing or other work. Your pro will likely handle permitting for you, if needed, to ensure that all work completed meets the relevant building codes. A growing number of municipalities now offer online permitting portals, which can speed up submissions and status checks, though total review times still vary widely by location and project scope.If your project is small and fairly simple, permits might come through in as little as a week or two; bigger or more complex projects can take up to a few months.Key to success: Patience3. Site PrepDepending on the nature of your project, site prep may involve demolition, such as breaking down walls, as well as removing furniture, fixtures and flooring. It may mean grading or leveling areas, shoring up a foundation or cleaning. It likely also will involve determining where to store the project materials and setting up features for safety and comfort, such as sheeting to keep dust and debris localized to the work area.Think ahead of time about the disruption your project may cause to your daily life, such as noise, interruptions, and the shutting off of water and power, and plan for relocating any activities that you normally do in the area. For example, if you won't have access to your kitchen, consider setting up a microwave and an eating area in another room. For a major remodel, you may even consider staying off-site for a portion of the project. And if you have children and/or pets, work with your pros to figure out how to keep them safely out of the work zone.Keys to success: Adjusting living and working arrangements Houzz; Legacy Builders & Design Inc. 4. ConstructionIf you’re undertaking a major remodel, structural and framing work will typically come first, such as adding walls or support posts or enlarging doorways. Next, your pro will complete the rough-in phase for electrical, mechanical and plumbing systems. Elements such as cabinetry and flooring generally follow, along with finishing work like painting, sanding and staining, and time for materials to cure.As the work progresses, material availability, inspections, site conditions and design decisions may lead to scheduling adjustments. Clear, timely updates can make those changes easier to navigate. In fact, in the same 2025 survey, 44% of homeowners say timeline changes and staying on schedule can be challenging, while 21% have difficulty tracking the budget and expenses over time.Before approving a change order, talk with your pro about how it will affect both the schedule and the budget. Many pros use project management software to share updates, document decisions and give homeowners a current view of costs and timing throughout the project.Keys to success: Visibility and flexibility5. FinishingWith all the elements in place, you'll be very close to enjoying your newly redone space. As the project winds down and the team handles smaller details (finishing trimwork, touching up paint scuffs, adjusting alignments, etc.), create a punch list of any detail that may need more attention, no matter how small. The team will do a walk-through and have their own punch list, but recording everything can help ease your mind.The punch list meeting between you, your designer and any contractors will likely take place about a week or two before the finalization date, to allow time for handling any remaining tasks. As the project wraps up, your pro may also provide warranty information, care instructions, product documentation and other project records so you have everything you need to maintain your newly completed space. And after all the work is done, your remodeling team should handle cleanup; consider ahead of time where you will store or donate any extra materials such as paint, tiles or wood planks.Also, as you're immersed in your new space, consider leaving a detailed review of your experience for your team members. Per the 2025 Houzz survey, recommendations and reviews are among the most important factors homeowners weigh when choosing a pro, cited by 67% of respondents. And 83% of pros said referrals and word of mouth meaningfully contribute to their business. A specific, candid review can help other homeowners make a more informed decision.Keys to success: Attention to detail and building goodwillMethodology: Data for the 2025 Houzz survey was collected through a questionnaire emailed to registered Houzz users in June 2025. The 110-question survey was completed by 2,904 qualified respondents, all of whom reported being 18 or older, owning their home, and having completed a remodel or addition in the previous 12 months, currently working on one, or planning to begin one within the next three months. Final data were weighted to align with the Houzz user population, using weights derived from the annual Houzz & Home Study.This story was produced by Houzz and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Friend remembers Hawkeye band member who died after collapsing at Iowa football game The community is remembering Derek Phillips, a University of Iowa student and marching band member who died Tuesday morning after collapsing at Saturday's Hawkeye football game.
	‘Like losing a family member’: Band member speaks out after bandmate dies The Hawkeye Marching Band is grieving the loss of Derek Phillips, a fellow section leader said.
	Wildfires could displace you for months. Is your insurance ready? Wildfires could displace you for months. Is your insurance ready?Catastrophic wildfires have dominated headlines over the past few years, most prominently the Southern California fires in early 2025 that decimated over 6,800 homes and damaged nearly 1,000 more. But it isn’t just Golden Staters and homeowners who live near forests and mountains who are at risk. Since 2025, wildfires have destroyed hundreds more residences in blazes from Oklahoma and Nebraska to Florida and Georgia and, in recent weeks, Oregon.Wherever you live, it’s crucial to have homeowners insurance that covers the costs of rebuilding or repairing your dwelling and replacing your possessions if a fire destroys them. Your policy should also provide loss of use coverage, also referred to as additional living expense (ALE), which pays you back when you have to pay out-of-pocket for things like temporary housing and food while you are displaced.The problem is, your ALE coverage may not be sufficient or clearly understood when you need it most. TheZebra.com took a closer look at why and what you need to ensure you and your family are properly covered.Alarming StatisticsAs of Sept. 4, firefighters have responded to 52,939 wildfires that have burned more than 8.2 million acres across the United States this year, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. That means 2026 has already reached 125% of the 10-year average for fires in one year.What Loss of Use Coverage Actually Is (and Isn’t)ALE coverage helps pay for additional expenses you incur after your home becomes unlivable. This can include costs like a hotel or Airbnb stay, restaurant meals, transportation to work and school, and even pet boarding while your home is being rebuilt or repaired.“Most policies cap ALE as a percentage of the dwelling coverage limit, usually somewhere in the 20% to 30% range, although some carriers structure it as a separate flat limit instead,” explained Beth Swanson, insurance analyst with The Zebra. “ALE coverage generally kicks in once a covered peril makes the home uninhabitable, not simply inconvenient to live in. And time limits tend to be tied to a reasonable time to repair or rebuild, rather than a strict calendar cutoff, although some policies do include caps in the 12- to 24-month range.”Brandi Richard Thompson, a former Federal Emergency Management Agency official who now educates families about emergency preparedness, cautions that ALE is not a second income or a rent-free check.“It pays the difference between what your life cost before the fire and what your life costs after it, which means your ordinary grocery bills and utility bills aren’t covered – only the increase is,” Thompson explained.In other words, ALE only covers the extra expenses directly caused by your displacement. Normal, ongoing bills and costs remain your responsibility.When You Overextend Your StayDisplacement due to a fire can complicate ALE matters. That’s because the process of scoping (inspecting) a major fire loss by an adjuster (the professional assigned to investigate and resolve the insurance claim on behalf of you or your carrier) can often take several months, not including the time it takes to repair or rebuild.“Let’s say you have $500,000 in dwelling coverage and $50,000 in ALE coverage that’s capped to last 12 months,” said Jennifer Taylor, a public adjuster and CEO/founder of Claim Ready. “If your additional living expenses and costs to stay at a hotel total $5,000 per month, that $50,000 will only last 10 months. But if it takes eight months to agree on the scope and final rebuild estimate before reconstruction even starts, you may have already used a significant portion of your ALE. A major rebuild could take many months beyond that.”Once your ALE coverage expires or you’ve exhausted the maximum dollar cap, you’re responsible for paying all ALE-related expenses.The Mortgage Misconception Nobody MentionsMany homeowners are also surprised to learn that ALE protection won’t cover your mortgage payments, even though you won’t be living in your home during this time.“This can put your family in a tough spot because you may have to keep paying your mortgage while also covering a hotel or rental,” said Joy Aumann, a Southern California real estate agent who has represented families displaced by wildfires. “You may also have to pay certain costs out-of-pocket first and then get reimbursed by your insurance company later.”What Happens to Your StuffYour clothes, furniture, portable consumer electronics, and other belongings are typically protected under your policy’s coverage C (personal property), which is an entirely separate limit from ALE that often runs 50% to 70% of your dwelling coverage. Fortunately, spending down your ALE won’t affect this coverage.If your possessions are damaged in a fire, the amount you will receive depends on which option you chose, as listed in your policy: actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost. The former pays what the item was worth the moment before it burned, meaning replacement cost minus depreciation for wear and age; the latter pays what it costs to purchase a comparable new item today, which is why it’s preferred.“An ACV policy can leave a family tens of thousands of dollars short on contents alone,” Thompson added. “Let’s say you bought a sofa for $2,400 eight years ago. If you have ACV and your sofa is destroyed by fire, you might be reimbursed only $600 due to depreciation.”When Wildfire Smoke Makes Your Home UninhabitableImagine your home is completely spared from the flames but still suffers serious smoke and ash damage, making it unsafe and unlivable. That could lead to a dispute with your carrier over whether this qualifies as direct physical loss.“This is a tricky area because smoke and ash damage can be particularly complicated to evaluate,” Taylor noted. “How those losses are handled can depend heavily on the facts of the claim, the policy language, the adjuster, and the carrier.”ALE coverage in this scenario is commonly triggered when the home is uninhabitable from a covered peril, not by whether flames actually touched your house.“Many policies contain civil authority coverage that pays living expenses when a mandatory government evacuation order prohibits access to your home, but it is usually capped tightly, commonly two weeks to 30 days,” Thompson said. “Other deciding factors are habitability determination based on contamination, and medical necessity – documentation from a physician that a specific household member cannot safely occupy the residence.”What to Check Before Disaster Season EndsTo safeguard your financial interests, it’s best to be proactive now, before a potential fire may occur. The experts recommend these tips:Review your policy carefully. “Spend a few minutes reviewing your declarations page and loss of use section. Check your ALE limits and whether your belongings are covered at ACV or replacement cost,” Aumann advised. Then, increase coverage limits as needed, such as by opting for an extended ALE endorsement.Understand how your policy defines “uninhabitable.” Find the actual sentence in your policy, which may state something like the residence premises are “not fit to live in.” “Then, ask your carrier three questions,” Thompson said. “Does a mandatory evacuation order by itself trigger ALE, and for how long? Does smoke or ash contamination without structural burn trigger ALE, and what evidence do you require? And who makes the habitability determination, and will you accept an independent industrial hygienist’s assessment?”Know your fire risks. “If you’re in a high-risk area, or you know a disaster is bearing down, that’s a good moment to call your agent and ask them to walk through your ALE language in your specific policy,” Swanson suggested. “Ask questions about anything you don’t understand.”The Bigger Picture: Wildfire Risk Is SpreadingThe takeaway here isn't just about the fires making headlines. Wildfire activity has picked up well beyond the regions most people associate with it, which means your ALE coverage is worth a second look no matter where you live. The chart below shows how wildfire counts have shifted across U.S. regions over the past decade — and it's not just California driving the trend. TheZebra.com This story was produced by The Zebra and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The customer who never complains is costing you more than the one who does The customer who never complains is costing you more than the one who doesYour worst delivery experiences are probably not in your support queue. Instead, they are the “silent losses” that arise when customers churn rather than voice their complaints, ShipStation reports.“Some customers will let you know when they don’t receive a package. But then there are some who have a bad experience and never say anything—and those are the really dangerous ones, because when you never hear about it, you can’t do anything about it. That silent loss really hurts a business,” Brian Bianchetti, CEO of People’s Choice Beef Jerky, said at ShipStation Global’s Innovation Delivered.Every business has a support queue, a review page, and a rough sense of how often things go wrong. Almost nobody has a count of the customers who had a bad delivery, said nothing, and quietly moved on. They don’t churn loudly. They just stop appearing in your repeat-purchase numbers, and your dashboard reads it as normal attrition. That gap is the most expensive blind spot in the post-purchase customer experience, and it came up repeatedly in what ecommerce leaders told us about the state of delivery in 2026.The complaint is the most useful thing a customer can give youStart by reframing the customer who does reach out. That person is not the problem. They are still in the relationship.“They are now handing over not just their money to you as part of an order, but they’re handing you a bit of trust,” said Sham Aziz, Founder of thecxway, during the Turning Delivery Into a Brand Experience session. “They want to see that trust come back in the other direction. The question I have for brands is: Will you reinforce that decision, or will you make them regret it?”A complaint is one more chance to reinforce it, and recovery works better than most brands expect. Smart businesses use delivery as a competitive advantage. When things go wrong, they email customers the moment a parcel is predicted to run late, refund the delivery charge automatically, and assign a concierge from customer care.None of that is available with the silent customer. You can’t recover a failure you never learned about, and you can’t win back someone who never told you they left. So the complaint rate you find annoying is the only part of your failure rate you can act on. Treat it as a sample, not a total.Why the silent loss never shows up in your reportingMany brands measure delivery at the wrong level.“You often end up being either too macro and focused on overall brand: ‘Would you recommend our brand?’—or too micro, simply giving a score to the delivery experience,” said Aziz.Neither tells you whether the customer who clicked a broken tracking link for five days will come back.The damage rarely arrives as a single event. It builds as individual deviations go unnoticed because the evidence is scattered.“Sometimes the first thing that breaks isn’t actually shipping. It’s trust in the data. As brands scale, carriers, warehouses, and sales channels all start looking at different systems and getting different answers,” said Patrick Koehler, Founder and CEO of KD Global USA.The fix isn’t more reporting. It’s connecting the data that already exists. When exception data sits with logistics, reviews with marketing, and tickets with support, nobody sees the pattern connecting them.“The goal shouldn’t be more dashboards,” he said. “It’s about making sure everyone is working with the same version of reality.”Mine the feedback you already haveThe key to long-term success is turning your existing complaints into a diagnostic for the ones you never hear.“Start with the customers who’ve already told you there was a problem—the one- and two-star reviews mentioning shipping, poor NPS responses, and customer support tickets related to shipping,” said Dan Caldwell, Technology Partnerships at Klaviyo. “Go back and look at that customer’s messaging history. Did you message them proactively? Was that message received? Was it opened? What channel was it on?”Then sort what you find. If the customer never received the update, or got an email when they only read texts, that’s a fixable communication failure. If the delivery itself was bad, that’s a win-back list.The failures customers notice and never mentionSome breakdowns almost never generate a ticket. They generate a decision not to reorder.Consider the notification that fires before the package moves. A customer clicks a tracking link for five days before realizing the label had never reached the carrier. That notification should have been delayed until the parcel entered the mail stream, so the first click shows movement. Nobody writes in to report that. They just trust the next shipping email a little less—and every one of those emails is a brand touchpoint, not a system log.Carrier choice is quieter still. Bianchetti found that offering a choice of carrier, speed, and ship date moved retention, “because some customers genuinely dislike certain carriers. If that’s their only option, they’ll stop ordering from you.” They won’t explain that in an email.These are small breaches of an implied promise, and the customer quietly turns away.The signal hiding in your returns queueReturns are the one place an unhappy customer volunteers information, which means returns management is a growth tool rather than a cost line. It’s one of the reasons leading brands turn returns into revenue and loyalty.The queue itself is a diagnostic if you read it. Return reasons decode into specific fixes—size and fit complaints mean your guides are weak, quality concerns point at the product, “changed my mind” usually means your positioning oversold it, and damage means the packaging isn’t doing its job. This used to require forcing customers into structured reason codes and manually reading the results. Now the volume is the advantage.The payoff isn’t only diagnostic. A return handled well converts into an exchange, which means the customer stays and the revenue stays.That’s the whole argument for treating reverse logistics as a loyalty driver rather than a cost center: the customer who returns something is already deeply engaged with your brand. They browsed, bought, paid, received, and evaluated. Whether that engagement continues depends on what happens next.How to get started with surfacing silent churnClosing the gap starts with deciding who’s responsible for it, because in most organizations, nobody is.“Marketing owns everything up to checkout, and then they’re done. The logistics team ships the parcel, and then they’re done. Meanwhile, no one is communicating with the customer,” said Rick Watson, Founder of Watson Weekly.Caldwell saw the same gap from the marketing side: “It is way too common for the teams responsible for logistics, marketing, and customer support to not be working closely enough together.” Assigning an owner to the post-checkout touchpoint costs nothing and usually surfaces problems within a week.Next, pull your last 90 days of shipping-related reviews and tickets and check each against what you actually sent that customer. Delay notifications until the first carrier scan. Give shoppers a carrier and speed choice. Route anyone whose package is late into a retention flow instead of a cross-sell. Make returns self-service before volume forces the issue. Then change what you report on: on-time delivery rate won’t tell you how the relationship is holding, but repeat purchase rate, net promoter score (NPS), exception clusters, and post-delivery contact volume will.That’s where a centralized view earns its keep. You still have to act on it. But you can’t act on what you can’t see, and the customers who never complain are counting on you not to look.This story was produced by ShipStation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Wildfires could displace you for months. Is your insurance ready? Wildfires could displace you for months. Is your insurance ready? Catastrophic wildfires have dominated headlines over the past few years, most prominently the Southern California fires in early 2025 that decimated over 6,800 homes and damaged nearly 1,000 more. But it isn’t just Golden Staters and homeowners who live near forests and mountains who are at risk. Since 2025, wildfires have destroyed hundreds more residences in blazes from Oklahoma and Nebraska to Florida and Georgia and, in recent weeks, Oregon. Wherever you live, it’s crucial to have homeowners insurance that covers the costs of rebuilding or repairing your dwelling and replacing your possessions if a fire destroys them. Your policy should also provide loss of use coverage, also referred to as additional living expense (ALE), which pays you back when you have to pay out-of-pocket for things like temporary housing and food while you are displaced. The problem is, your ALE coverage may not be sufficient or clearly understood when you need it most. TheZebra.com took a closer look at why and what you need to ensure you and your family are properly covered. Alarming Statistics As of Sept. 4, firefighters have responded to 52,939 wildfires that have burned more than 8.2 million acres across the United States this year, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. That means 2026 has already reached 125% of the 10-year average for fires in one year. What Loss of Use Coverage Actually Is (and Isn’t) ALE coverage helps pay for additional expenses you incur after your home becomes unlivable. This can include costs like a hotel or Airbnb stay, restaurant meals, transportation to work and school, and even pet boarding while your home is being rebuilt or repaired. “Most policies cap ALE as a percentage of the dwelling coverage limit, usually somewhere in the 20% to 30% range, although some carriers structure it as a separate flat limit instead,” explained Beth Swanson, insurance analyst with The Zebra. “ALE coverage generally kicks in once a covered peril makes the home uninhabitable, not simply inconvenient to live in. And time limits tend to be tied to a reasonable time to repair or rebuild, rather than a strict calendar cutoff, although some policies do include caps in the 12- to 24-month range.” Brandi Richard Thompson, a former Federal Emergency Management Agency official who now educates families about emergency preparedness, cautions that ALE is not a second income or a rent-free check. “It pays the difference between what your life cost before the fire and what your life costs after it, which means your ordinary grocery bills and utility bills aren’t covered – only the increase is,” Thompson explained. In other words, ALE only covers the extra expenses directly caused by your displacement. Normal, ongoing bills and costs remain your responsibility. When You Overextend Your Stay Displacement due to a fire can complicate ALE matters. That’s because the process of scoping (inspecting) a major fire loss by an adjuster (the professional assigned to investigate and resolve the insurance claim on behalf of you or your carrier) can often take several months, not including the time it takes to repair or rebuild. “Let’s say you have $500,000 in dwelling coverage and $50,000 in ALE coverage that’s capped to last 12 months,” said Jennifer Taylor, a public adjuster and CEO/founder of Claim Ready. “If your additional living expenses and costs to stay at a hotel total $5,000 per month, that $50,000 will only last 10 months. But if it takes eight months to agree on the scope and final rebuild estimate before reconstruction even starts, you may have already used a significant portion of your ALE. A major rebuild could take many months beyond that.” Once your ALE coverage expires or you’ve exhausted the maximum dollar cap, you’re responsible for paying all ALE-related expenses. The Mortgage Misconception Nobody Mentions Many homeowners are also surprised to learn that ALE protection won’t cover your mortgage payments, even though you won’t be living in your home during this time. “This can put your family in a tough spot because you may have to keep paying your mortgage while also covering a hotel or rental,” said Joy Aumann, a Southern California real estate agent who has represented families displaced by wildfires. “You may also have to pay certain costs out-of-pocket first and then get reimbursed by your insurance company later.” What Happens to Your Stuff Your clothes, furniture, portable consumer electronics, and other belongings are typically protected under your policy’s coverage C (personal property), which is an entirely separate limit from ALE that often runs 50% to 70% of your dwelling coverage. Fortunately, spending down your ALE won’t affect this coverage. If your possessions are damaged in a fire, the amount you will receive depends on which option you chose, as listed in your policy: actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost. The former pays what the item was worth the moment before it burned, meaning replacement cost minus depreciation for wear and age; the latter pays what it costs to purchase a comparable new item today, which is why it’s preferred. “An ACV policy can leave a family tens of thousands of dollars short on contents alone,” Thompson added. “Let’s say you bought a sofa for $2,400 eight years ago. If you have ACV and your sofa is destroyed by fire, you might be reimbursed only $600 due to depreciation.” When Wildfire Smoke Makes Your Home Uninhabitable Imagine your home is completely spared from the flames but still suffers serious smoke and ash damage, making it unsafe and unlivable. That could lead to a dispute with your carrier over whether this qualifies as direct physical loss. “This is a tricky area because smoke and ash damage can be particularly complicated to evaluate,” Taylor noted. “How those losses are handled can depend heavily on the facts of the claim, the policy language, the adjuster, and the carrier.” ALE coverage in this scenario is commonly triggered when the home is uninhabitable from a covered peril, not by whether flames actually touched your house. “Many policies contain civil authority coverage that pays living expenses when a mandatory government evacuation order prohibits access to your home, but it is usually capped tightly, commonly two weeks to 30 days,” Thompson said. “Other deciding factors are habitability determination based on contamination, and medical necessity – documentation from a physician that a specific household member cannot safely occupy the residence.” What to Check Before Disaster Season Ends To safeguard your financial interests, it’s best to be proactive now, before a potential fire may occur. The experts recommend these tips: Review your policy carefully. “Spend a few minutes reviewing your declarations page and loss of use section. Check your ALE limits and whether your belongings are covered at ACV or replacement cost,” Aumann advised. Then, increase coverage limits as needed, such as by opting for an extended ALE endorsement. Understand how your policy defines “uninhabitable.” Find the actual sentence in your policy, which may state something like the residence premises are “not fit to live in.” “Then, ask your carrier three questions,” Thompson said. “Does a mandatory evacuation order by itself trigger ALE, and for how long? Does smoke or ash contamination without structural burn trigger ALE, and what evidence do you require? And who makes the habitability determination, and will you accept an independent industrial hygienist’s assessment?” Know your fire risks. “If you’re in a high-risk area, or you know a disaster is bearing down, that’s a good moment to call your agent and ask them to walk through your ALE language in your specific policy,” Swanson suggested. “Ask questions about anything you don’t understand.” The Bigger Picture: Wildfire Risk Is Spreading The takeaway here isn't just about the fires making headlines. Wildfire activity has picked up well beyond the regions most people associate with it, which means your ALE coverage is worth a second look no matter where you live. The chart below shows how wildfire counts have shifted across U.S. regions over the past decade — and it's not just California driving the trend. TheZebra.com This story was produced by The Zebra and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Does rest or rust win out? What advanced NFL stats reveal about returning teams Does rest or rust win out? What advanced NFL stats reveal about returning teamsIn the NFL, wear and tear is incredibly prevalent, so teams that have more rest should be at an advantage.Topline numbers from the 2025 season do not bear that out, though, as teams were essentially .500 coming off a bye or entering a game with any significant rest advantage.Dig a little deeper, however, and you’ll see that average performance does improve with rest league-wide, and at a level that makes the results incredibly confusing — possibly even misleading, SBD reports.NFL teams were near .500 both straight up and against the spread with a rest advantage in 2025EPA splits still showed better performance for teams coming off a byeElite teams and bottom feeders made the biggest jumps after long restThe NFL Post-Bye EPA vs. Record GapNFL teams were 17-15 coming off a bye in 2025. If you’re doing research before placing a wager on any NFL betting apps, that’s basically a toss-away number as it doesn’t show any trend.Final results show that basically all rest-advantage numbers from this past season resulted in a coin flip. SBD When it comes to EPA per play, teams, on average, drastically outperformed their season averages when coming off a bye, suggesting those baseline numbers should have been far different.For the season, the league average EPA +/-, or gap between their offensive EPA and EPA allowed, was -0.0008, or nearly flat. Coming off a bye, that league average number jumped to 0.09.NFL EPA Numbers Skyrocket Following ByeNineteen of the league’s 32 teams had a positive EPA per play plus-minus following their bye, suggesting they outperformed their opponent. That’s already an overperformance of the 17-15 record, although slight.But 21 teams overperformed post bye based on their season-long EPA plus-minus. That’s more than two-thirds of the league. SBD Biggest Post-Bye OverperformersThe teams that outpaced their season performance the most following their bye tended to fit in two categories: really good team or really bad team.The Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks were the No. 1, 3 and 5 overperformers after their bye. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, and Las Vegas Raiders also found themselves within the top-10.For the best teams, this makes perfect sense. Their overall strengths became stronger with rest, and were even more pronounced. For the bottom feeders, meanwhile, extra time was able to give them more opportunity to mask deficiencies.The Seahawks are an interesting case, as they kind of represent both sides. Their season-long offensive EPA was middle of the pack, ranked 14th in the league. But post bye, it was the best in the league, jumping from 0.036 to 0.45.There you have a team that’s elite on one side of the ball with deficiencies on the other, becoming elite on both. Kind of sounds like a recipe for a Super Bowl title following an extra week off.NFL Teams That Underperformed After the ByeNot every team improved with the rest, of course. Some actually got quite a bit worse.The Minnesota Vikings and Cincinnati Bengals were the two biggest underperformers post bye, which isn’t all that surprising. Having the New England Patriots, Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars follow them, however, is.Minnesota actually matched its offensive output, but went from -0.087 per play defensively throughout the season to 0.25 after the bye. Cincinnati, meanwhile, stayed consistent on defense, but dropped from 0.012 to -0.18 offensively.For these teams, their supposed strength let them down while their flaws remained, well, flawed.Offenses Benefit Most From Bye WeekTeams improved on both sides of the ball, on average, after the bye. But the jump for offenses was immense, suggesting the extra time off advantages offensive play-callers.The league average jumped from 0.013 throughout the season to 0.074 after the bye.Post-bye defense also improved, going from 0.014 to -0.017, just not on pace with offensive overperformance.It’s mostly the best offenses getting better, too. The Bills, Bears, Rams, 49ers, Patriots and Packers were all among the top eight following the bye, and all were among the top eight throughout the season.What Do Bye Week, Rest Advantage Numbers Mean for NFL Betting?Blanket betting on teams to win or cover coming out of their bye this past season would not have been very profitable, as the top line records show.But the advanced stats do show there are opportunities to pounce with these trends:The best teams get better. With rest and extra preparation, elite teams are going overperform even their high standards, strengthening current strengths and finding ways to paper over or fix flaws.The worst teams get better, too. Extra time to prepare means extra time to mask deficiencies.Both sides of the ball get better, but offenses see a much bigger spike, especially offenses that are already among the best in the league.NFL Teams Playing the Most Games With a Rest DisadvantageEvery team gets just one bye, of course, so those numbers don’t factor in much for NFL futures odds.Unless, you look at it from the other side.The Los Angeles Chargers will play six games against an opponent that has a rest advantage of at least three days, which is the most in the league. Three of those are against a team coming off a bye (Chiefs, Texans and Raiders).That might already be baked into the Chargers season win total number, as they’re listed at 9.5 by theScore Bet. Here are the teams with the most games against rested opponents in 2026, and their win totals, all from theScore Bet: SBD This story was produced by SBD using Sportradar data and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	First-time homebuyers are 'optimistic,' open to new paths to homeownership First-time homebuyers are ‘optimistic,’ open to new paths to homeownershipAffordability pressures are driving aspiring homebuyers to make significant tradeoffs on their path to purchase, according to an annual TD survey of Americans planning to buy their first home in 2026. With elevated interest rates, broader economic uncertainty, and limited inventory, first-time buyers are increasingly open to non-traditional financing and finding alternative funding sources to make homeownership a reality.Based on the survey of 1,003 U.S. adults who have never owned a house and plan to buy their first home in 2026, first-time homebuyers would consider the following financial strategies:Seventy-four percent would consider a 50-year mortgage.Seventy-eight percent of younger millennials and 74% of Gen Z would use their 401(k) for a home purchase if allowed.Fifty percent would buy a fixer-upper.Sixty-seven percent plan to receive financial support from family/loved ones (higher for younger millennials and Gen Z).As TD reports, first-time homebuyers are making financial sacrifices and focusing on budgeting to purchase a home.Interest rates (29%) and affordability (28%) are the top barriers to purchasing a home for first-time buyers.Thirty-one percent have reduced or stopped contributing to retirement accounts.Fifty-four percent anticipate spending between 26% and 35% of their monthly income on mortgage payments (up from 48% in 2025).Optimism, but on a delayed timelineA majority (81%) of first-time homebuyers remain optimistic about the market, and they are not backing down.However, the timeline for homeownership is shifting for today’s first-time homebuyers.Median age for first-time buyers is 40, but Gen Z aims for younger ages (46% expect to buy between 25-29).Eighty-one percent believe homeownership is a smart long-term investment.Fifty-eight percent expect to live in their home for more than 10 years (up from 51% in 2025).Credit as a financial-readiness indicatorFirst-time homebuyers are preparing more deliberately for their purchase than in previous years, taking steps to improve financial readiness and plan ahead. Many are increasingly focused on their credit report, using it as a tool to strengthen their financial foundation.Buyers are actively monitoring and improving their credit by making on-time payments (70%), checking for errors (59%), and paying down debt (57%). Fifty-five percent have created a homeownership budget (up from 48% in 2025).Guidance and trusted resources remain criticalMany first-time homebuyers said they need greater clarity on the home purchase process, highlighting the growing complexity of navigating today’s market.Buyers want more information on affordability, insurance, property taxes, and closing costs. Only 27% have spoken with a mortgage lender; only 22% have secured pre-qualification/pre-approval.Survey MethodologyThis CARAVAN survey was conducted by Big Village among a sample of 1,003 U.S. adults who have never owned a house and plan to buy their first home in 2026. Half of the respondents (N=501) reside in the following states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. In addition, 255 interviews were conducted among low- to moderate-income respondents, defined on a per-state basis as having household income within 50% to 80% of the median family income for that state.This story was produced by TD and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	When does refinancing a car loan make sense? 5 scenarios to consider When does refinancing a car loan make sense? 5 scenarios to considerFinancing a car can be a confusing experience, and it often leads drivers to choose a deal they later regret or overpay on. Refinancing their auto loan has emerged as a way for drivers to get some of that money back each month. The total value of refinanced car loans reached $3.4 billion at the start of 2026, up 79% from two years earlier, according to Experian, a sign that more Americans are catching on to the savings sitting in their driveway. But not everyone knows how refinancing works or whether it makes sense for them.Caribou breaks down five ways auto refinancing can support bigger financial goals. A lower monthly payment is often the first thing drivers think of, but it's just one of several possible outcomes. Depending on the offer, refinancing could help a driver reduce interest, pay off a car sooner, create more room in their monthly budget, or put money toward another financial goal.1. Reduce the cost of your car loanA lower annual percentage rate (APR) means less of each payment goes toward interest. Depending on your balance and remaining loan term, that could lower your monthly payment, reduce your total interest, or help with both.A better rate may also give you the option to choose a shorter term while keeping your payment close to what you pay today. That could help you finish the loan sooner without placing significantly more pressure on your monthly budget.2. Pay off your car soonerRefinancing isn’t only about finding the lowest possible payment. Some drivers use a lower rate to shorten their repayment timeline.That’s what Ohio driver Phillip Semple said was his motivation for refinancing. “My big thing was dropping the interest rate so I could pay off the loan faster, which will work out a lot better for me long term.”A shorter term could help you become debt-free sooner and reduce the amount of interest you pay. Compare the new payment with your current budget so you know the amount will remain manageable from month to month.3. Create room for everyday expensesCar payments compete with groceries, utilities, insurance, childcare, gas, and other regular expenses. Lowering the payment could give your monthly budget more breathing room. In Caribou’s 2026 survey of 2,000 auto loan borrowers, if they could save $150 a month on their car payment, 56% of respondents said they’d use it to cover everyday expenses like gas and groceries.The amount may feel small at first, but consistent monthly savings could make it easier to cover changing costs without relying as heavily on a credit card or dipping into savings.4. Put more toward higher-interest debtIf refinancing lowers your car payment, you could redirect the difference toward debt with a higher interest rate.For example, someone who saves $100 a month on a car payment could apply that $100 to a credit card balance. The car refinance doesn’t eliminate the other debt, but it could free up money to help pay it down faster.Omar Pena, a car owner from California, said a "beginner level" credit history meant he got a higher rate at the dealership. Now he's using the extra money from refinancing to tackle other debt and build his credit. “The savings will definitely help me pay off my other credit cards, which is going to help me reach my credit goals.”5. Build savings for what comes nextMonthly savings could also support a future goal. That might mean building an emergency fund, preparing for college costs, planning a trip, or saving toward a down payment on a home.Joshua Piechur, who refinanced his Hyundai Santa Fe, explained how he’s using the extra funds for travel. “I have plans to go to Peru next summer to do hiking, and the savings will be for the trip.”The key is to give the savings a purpose. An automatic transfer to a separate savings account could help turn a lower car payment into steady progress.When refinancing may not make senseRefinancing can be helpful, but it’s not the right choice for every borrower.It may not be worth it if you’re already close to paying off your loan. At that point, you may not have enough remaining interest to save much by refinancing.It may also be risky if you owe more than your car is worth. This is often called being upside down or having negative equity. If that’s your situation, lenders may be less likely to approve the refinance, or the new loan may not improve your financial position.Refinancing may also not make sense if the only way to lower your monthly payment is to stretch the loan much longer than you are comfortable. It can help in the short term, but it may increase the total amount you pay in interest.If you recently bought your car, timing can matter, too. Some borrowers may be able to refinance soon after purchase, but it helps to understand how soon you can refinance a car loan before applying.How to know if refinancing is worth itTo decide whether refinancing makes sense, compare your current loan with the new offer side by side.Look at:Current APR vs. new APRCurrent monthly payment vs. new monthly paymentRemaining loan balanceNew loan termTotal interest you’d payAny fees tied to the new loanThe lowest monthly payment isn’t always the best deal. A refinance offer may lower your payment by extending the loan, but that could mean paying more interest overall.To get a clearer picture, compare the full cost of the loan, not just the monthly savings. Use a refinance calculator to estimate how much you may be able to save on your car loan.Can you refinance with bad credit?It may still be possible to refinance with bad credit, but your options could be more limited. Lenders may offer higher rates, stricter terms or require certain vehicle and income qualifications.If your credit has improved even a little since you first got your loan, refinancing may still be worth checking. But if your credit has dropped, waiting and working on your score first may help you qualify for a better offer later.Look beyond the monthly paymentRefinancing your car loan may make sense if it helps you get a lower rate, lower payment, shorter term or better loan setup. It can also help if your credit has improved.But don’t make the decision based on the monthly payment alone. Compare the APR, loan term, fees and total interest before choosing a new offer. The right refinance should make your loan easier to manage without costing you more than necessary.This story was produced by Caribou and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Ben Leischner joins Moline Regional Community Foundation Board of Directors Moline Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) has announced that Ben Leischner is joining its Board of Directors. "Ben brings a wealth of personal and professional experience that will help guide the Foundation's vital philanthropic work throughout our community," said Paul Plagenz, President and CEO of MRCF. Leischner joined the Quad Cities International Airport (QCIA) as Executive [...]
	Top 10 states with the highest sales tax rates in 2026 Top 10 states with the highest sales tax rates in 2026Running a small business is thrilling, but navigating sales tax means crunching numbers and understanding regulations.You must calculate and charge sales tax for each purchase when your business sells something. The sales tax rates vary by state and by location within the state. While some states only have sales tax at a state level, others also have different rates depending on your city or county, leading to a higher combined sales tax rate.Sales tax rates vary significantly from state to state. Intuit QuickBooks compiled a list of the 10 states with the highest sales tax rates in 2026.1. LouisianaLouisiana currently holds the title for the highest average combined sales tax rate in the nation, at 10.11%. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, the state rate increased to 5% as part of a broader tax overhaul, and this rate is scheduled to remain in place through 2029.Depending on your parish or city, customers may pay a significant local tax on top of the state rate. In many areas, such as Monroe and parts of New Orleans, the combined rate easily exceeds 10%, with some specific taxing districts reaching as high as 12.5% to 13.5%.Louisiana also has special local taxes that apply to specific transactions, including hotel occupancy, car rentals, and telecommunications. One of the most unique aspects of the state's system is its complexity. Rates can vary not just by parish, but by specific shopping centers or economic development districts.2. TennesseeTennessee's state sales tax is 7.00% but it has one of the highest combined tax rates. The local sales tax rate ranges from 1.5% to 2.75%, with the combined local and state rates reaching 9.75%.If you have a business in Tennessee, you may have to charge the highest combined sales tax rate, as most counties charge an additional 2.75% on top of the state taxes. However, some goods such as gasoline, textbooks, school meals, and health care products are not subject to sales tax.A key point of contention in 2026 is the grocery tax. Unlike many neighboring states, Tennessee still taxes groceries at a state rate of 4% plus local taxes. However, new legislative efforts like the "End the Grocery Tax Act" are currently being debated to provide relief to residents.3. WashingtonWashington is often a surprise for business owners because it carries the fourth-highest average combined sales tax rate in the country at 9.51%. While the statewide rate has remained steady at 6.5%, local jurisdictions have been increasingly active in raising rates to fund transit and local services.In many major hubs, the tax burden is even higher. For example, as of 2026, the minimum combined rate in Seattle is 10.55%. Because Washington does not have a personal income tax, the state relies heavily on these consumption-based taxes and the Business & Occupation (B&O) tax to fund its budget.Washington has also recently expanded its sales tax base. As of late 2025 and into 2026, several services that were previously exempt (including digital advertising, custom software development, and temporary staffing services) are now subject to retail sales tax, making it a critical area for business compliance.4. ArkansasArkansas currently holds the third-highest average combined sales tax rate in the country at 9.46%. While the state rate is 6.5%, the heavy reliance on local city and county taxes creates significant variation; in some municipalities, the combined total can reach as high as 12.625%.A major shift for 2026 is the implementation of the Grocery Tax Relief Act. As of Jan. 1, 2026, the state-level sales tax on unprepared food (groceries) has been removed, dropping from its previous reduced rate to 0%. Note that local jurisdictions may still apply their own taxes to these items, so the receipt tax total may not be exactly zero.For business owners in the agricultural sector, the state launched a new Farmers Sales Tax Exemption Card in January 2026. This card simplifies the process of claiming exemptions at the point of sale for essential items like tractors, seed, and fertilizer, reducing the administrative burden on local producers.5. AlabamaAlabama ranks high due to aggressive local taxation. While the state rate is just 4%, heavy city and county additions push the average combined rate to 9.46%, with some areas exceeding 11%.To simplify compliance, out-of-state sellers can use the Simplified Sellers Use Tax (SSUT). This program allows eligible remote businesses to collect a flat 8% tax on all Alabama sales, regardless of the local jurisdiction's specific rate.For 2026, Alabama has introduced significant relief on essentials. The state sales tax on groceries dropped to 2% in late 2025. Additionally, a temporary state tax exemption is currently active through 2028 for baby supplies (diapers, formula) and maternity clothing.6. OklahomaOklahoma climbs into the top 10 with a combined average rate of 9.06%. While the state’s base rate is a relatively low 4.5%, Oklahoma is known for significant local surcharges. In certain municipalities, the combination of city and county taxes can push the total rate as high as 11.5%.The most significant change for 2026 is the full stabilization of the state’s grocery tax elimination. As of late 2024, Oklahoma eliminated the 4.5% state sales tax on food and food ingredients.However, much like in Kansas, this relief only applies to the state portion; local jurisdictions still have the authority to levy their full sales tax rates on groceries. Business owners should also note that this exemption does not cover prepared foods, alcoholic beverages, or dietary supplements.Oklahoma follows a destination-based sourcing rule, meaning sales tax is calculated based on where the product is delivered. For remote sellers, the state maintains a straightforward economic nexus threshold: You must register and collect tax if your taxable sales into the state exceed $100,000 in the current or previous calendar year.Notably, Oklahoma does not use a transaction count (like the 200-transaction rule) to trigger nexus, simplifying compliance for low-cost, high-volume sellers.7. CaliforniaCalifornia holds the highest base state sales tax rate in the country at 7.25%. This base rate is a combination of a 6% state levy and a mandatory 1.25% local rate that supports city and county operations. Because of this high floor, no location in California has a tax rate lower than 7.25%.Local jurisdictions frequently add district taxes for transportation, public safety, or housing, pushing the average combined rate to 8.99%. In highly populated areas like Los Angeles and Long Beach, the total rate reaches 9.75% to 10.5%, with some specific cities peaking at 11.25%.A significant update for 2026 is the introduction of the Covered Battery-Embedded (CBE) Waste Recycling Fee. Effective Jan. 1, 2026, retailers must collect a 1.5% fee (capped at $15) on products with nonremovable batteries, such as certain smartphones and small electronics.Additionally, small businesses in San Francisco may see relief as new local rules have increased the gross receipts tax exemption threshold to $5 million.8. IllinoisIllinois is a complex state for business owners because it uses a destination-based tax system for most sales. While the base state rate is 6.25%, local additions in cities like Chicago push the combined rate to 10.5%, among the highest in the country.A major shift for 2026 is the total elimination of the 1% statewide grocery tax as of Jan. 1. However, many municipalities have opted to keep their own 1% local grocery tax to maintain revenue. This means that, depending on the city, you may see a tax decrease on groceries, or the rate may remain exactly the same but be reclassified as a local tax.Another key 2026 update is the removal of the 200-transaction threshold for economic nexus. Remote sellers now only need to track if they exceed $100,000 in gross retail sales to Illinois customers. If you cross that dollar amount, you are required to collect and remit taxes at the local rate of the delivery address.9. KansasKansas remains a high-tax state with a combined average rate of 8.78%, though this can fluctuate significantly depending on your specific district. While the state rate is 6.5%, some local areas can see total rates climbing above 11%.The biggest change for 2026 is the full implementation of the Axe the Food Tax legislation. As of Jan. 1, 2025, the state-level sales tax on groceries (food and food ingredients) was reduced to 0%. It is important to remember that this is a state-level reduction only; cities and counties can still levy their full sales tax rates on a grocery bill.Kansas is also unique in how it treats digital products. While many states are moving to tax streaming and cloud services, Kansas generally treats software as a service (SaaS) and custom software as exempt. However, if you sell "prewritten" software that is downloaded or delivered on a tangible medium, it remains fully taxable at the combined rate.10. New YorkNew York often surprises business owners because while the state rate is a low 4%, local surcharges are significant. The average combined rate sits at 8.54%, but in New York City and surrounding counties, the rate hits 8.875%. This includes a 0.375% surcharge for the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD).As of 2026, New York continues to treat SaaS and prewritten software as taxable tangible property. However, it's one of the few high-tax states where most digital goods, like e-books or streamed music, are tax-exempt unless you sell them in tangible form.New York is also famous for its "clothing threshold." Clothing and footwear sold for less than $110 per item are exempt from the 4% state tax year-round. While many counties follow this lead, some still collect their local portion of the tax on these items, so it's vital to check the specific jurisdiction.Find peace of mind come tax timeAfter looking at the 10 states with the highest sales tax rates, you can see that sales tax rates vary widely across the U.S. To ensure your business stays compliant with sales tax laws, review the regulations in your area, apply for a sales tax license, and file them on time.This story was produced by Intuit QuickBooks and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Locked out: How the housing affordability crisis is reshaping life plans Locked out: How the housing affordability crisis is reshaping life plansIn a new survey of 1,000 U.S. adults commissioned by Independent Lending, 70% said housing costs have forced them to delay or change at least one major life decision. Marriage, children, careers and even pets are being rescheduled around a purchase that keeps sliding further away.The finding lands in a market where the typical first-time buyer is now 40 years old, the oldest on record according to the National Association of Realtors. It echoes what Harris Poll research for Coldwell Banker found among aspiring homeowners last year. The delay itself is no longer news to anyone living it.What’s new is where respondents point the finger. Asked who bears the most responsibility for the affordability crisis, 38% named the federal government, while the explanation housing economists cite most, restrictive zoning, drew just 10%. The public and the experts are working from different diagnoses, and any proposed fix has to contend with that gap before it can contend with prices.Key findings 70% of adults surveyed have delayed or changed a major life decision because of housing costs12% have turned down or avoided a job that would have required relocating63% are not confident they can buy a home within the next two years30% don’t expect to ever own a home, and 73% see homeownership as distant or impossible69% have cut back on something to save for a home60% say housing affordability is a significant or enormous source of financial stress, rising to 71% among parents with children under 1838% hold the federal government most responsible for the affordability crisis, while explanations favored by housing economists barely register The most common response is staying put Independent Lending When housing costs collide with life plans, the result is usually inertia rather than a dramatic pivot. The single most common consequence in the survey: 37% of respondents have stayed in a living situation they’re unhappy with because moving costs too much.Another 25% have moved in with family or friends to save money. And 15% decided against getting a pet because of housing restrictions or costs, a small decision that says something large about how thoroughly rent and home prices now govern daily choices.This is part of why the life-plan freeze gets less coverage than price charts do. A canceled move doesn’t show up in transaction data. Someone staying in an apartment they’ve outgrown looks, from the outside, like stability.Housing costs are quietly taxing the labor market Independent Lending One in eight respondents, 12%, have turned down or avoided a job that would have required relocating, specifically because of housing costs.That’s a job-market problem wearing a housing costume. Workers who can’t afford to move can’t chase better wages, and employers in expensive metros lose access to candidates who would otherwise come. Add the 25% who moved in with family or friends, and housing costs are visibly redrawing the map of where people can live and work. Confidence has collapsed, and not where you’d expect Independent Lending Asked how confident they are about buying a home within the next two years, 63% of respondents say they are not very confident (28%) or not confident at all (35%). Just 12% call themselves very confident. Few splits in the data run wider. Among White respondents (n=521), 73% lack confidence in buying within two years. Among Black respondents (n=276), the figure is 47%, a 26-point difference. The survey measured confidence, not the reasons behind it, but the size of the split stands out in a dataset where most demographic differences run far narrower. For nearly a third, the timeline now ends at never Independent Lending Asked at what age they realistically expect to buy their first home, 30% of respondents answered that they don’t expect to ever own one. Another 43% expect to buy at 41 or later. Combined, 73% see homeownership as either distant or out of reach entirely. Only 6% expect to buy before 30.The share saying never climbs with age: 42% of Gen X respondents don’t expect to ever own, against 20% of Millennials. Each year of waiting appears to harden into expectation. NAR’s record-high first-time buyer age of 40 gives that expectation a real-world anchor. Saving for a home means cutting into the present Independent Lending Chasing a down payment has a price of its own. Fully 69% of respondents have cut back on or delayed something to save for a home. The most common sacrifices are the extras: dining out or entertainment (43%), travel or vacations (39%) and buying or replacing a vehicle (30%).The strain shows. Sixty percent say the housing affordability crisis has affected their financial stress significantly or enormously over the past year, and 29% call it one of the biggest sources of stress in their life. Parents carry the heaviest load: Among respondents with children under 18, 71% report significant or enormous stress, compared with 50% of those with adult children living in the home.The public blames Washington. Economists mostly don’t. Independent Lending Respondents were told that Federal Housing Finance Agency data shows U.S. home prices rose approximately 61% from late 2019 through early 2026, then asked who they hold most responsible. The single largest share, 38%, named the federal government. The ordering holds across income groups, with the federal government drawing between 38% and 39% in every income band large enough to report.The explanations housing economists most often cite sit near the bottom of the list:State and local governments and zoning policies: 10%Real estate developers: 6%Wall Street and institutional buyers: 6%The Federal Reserve: 4%Homeowners who oppose new construction: 4%Combined, all five drew 29%, less than the federal government alone. Another 34% declined to single anyone out, choosing “multiple groups equally.”That ordering runs against other recent polling. The America First Policy Institute’s January 2026 housing survey asked voters to rank six groups by responsibility, a different question format. State and local government bureaucrats came out on top: 28% ranked them first, the highest of any group tested. The public’s diagnosis and the policy debate aren’t happening in the same room. Any durable fix will have to close that gap first.Summary The American Dream of homeownership hasn’t been abandoned. It’s been rescheduled, and for a growing share of people, indefinitely. Seven in 10 adults surveyed are living some version of a postponed life: the apartment they’ve outgrown, the job they didn’t take.What the data captures is a generation of decisions being made in the waiting room. People are still cutting back and still organizing their lives around a purchase they may never complete. That persistence is its own finding.The desire to own hasn’t dimmed nearly as much as the belief that owning is possible, and the distance between those two things is where the next chapter of this story will be written.MethodologyTo understand how Americans approach homeownership in today’s market, Independent Lending surveyed 1,000 adults across the country via Pollfish in August 2026. Participants answered questions about how housing costs have shaped their life decisions, savings habits, stress levels and expectations around buying a home. Responses were analyzed by demographic groups to identify trends and disparities. The sample is 69.5% female and skews lower-income, with 45% reporting household income under $25,000. Findings represent survey respondents rather than a weighted general-population benchmark.This story was produced by Independent Lending and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Robert Townsend reschedules show in Galesburg The Orpheum Theatre has announced that the upcoming performance of Robert Townsend’s "Living The Shuffle," originally scheduled for Oct. 3, 2026, has been rescheduled toSaturday, April 17, 2027, a news release says. The schedule change comes as Townsend accepts a directing role for a new feature film.Production on the feature begins in September and is [...]
	Greetings from Paris, where the 2024 Olympics balloon rises again The floating Olympic cauldron, held aloft by a giant glowing balloon, is still making regular appearances two years after the 2024 Paris Games, showing up all summer long in the nighttime Paris sky.

Thursday, September 10th, 2026

Wednesday, September 9th, 2026