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

Tuesday, May 19th, 2026
	Putin visits China to reaffirm Russia ties The Kremlin has said Putin and Xi plan to discuss economic cooperation between the two countries, but also "key international and regional issues."
	Mark Fuhrman, ex-detective convicted of lying during OJ Simpson trial, has died Fuhrman was one of the first two police detectives sent to investigate the 1994 killings of OJ Simpson's ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend, Ronald Goldman, in Los Angeles.
	Colbert's last episodes: What happened on 'The Late Show' last night Stephen Colbert spent Monday's show revisiting material that never made it to air, performing for a studio audience made up entirely of his staff.
	Trump says he's called off Iran strike at request of Gulf allies President Donald Trump says he is holding off on a military strike on Iran planned for Tuesday because "serious negotiations" are underway to end the war.
	Late Monday night t'storm update We're watching storms roll in from the West tonight but as of 12:15 am, there are no warnings for our local area. Here's an update from Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray after midnight: That being said, we should plan on some thunder and lightning in the Quad Cities before 1 am. The storms and rain will [...]
Monday, May 18th, 2026
	3 people taken to hospital, 1 charged after disturbance turns into fight Officials said a domestic disturbance turned into a fight between several people.
	Property tax reform impacts Central DeWitt Schools renovation plans Property tax reform passed by state lawmakers is impacting Central DeWitt School’s plans to renovate it’s facilities.
	Community meeting discusses ICE in the Quad Cities 8 people were arrested following a raid at a Davenport restaurant in April.
	Quad Cities citizenship class prepares permanent U.S. residents hoping to naturalize World Relief Quad Cities helps immigrants who have been in the U.S. legally for years prepare for the citizenship exam.
	Scott County Sheriff's Office investigating crash involving school bus An initial investigation found that a North Scott school bus was traveling on 270th Street when the driver, according to police, failed to yield at an intersection.
	Illinois lawsuits contest unauthorized AI training Artificial intelligence is being used in countless applications nowadays, but lawsuits in Illinois are contesting how some digital information to train AI is being used without permission. Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol correspondent Alex Whitney looks at the push by journalists, actors and voice artists to protect their data from being used for AI.
	Community transparency in focus at Davenport forum after ICE arrests The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Davenport Public Library Fairmount Branch.
	1 injured after crash near Centennial Bridge Crews responded to a crash near the Centennial Bridge near the weekend.
	Quad Cities Business Journal: How LeClaire is becoming a destination town From its quaint shops and restaurants to river views and tug-of-war, LeClaire has something to offer all throughout the year. Dave Thompson from the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about how LeClaire is becoming a destination town in the QCA and beyond. For more information, click here.
	United Way of Whiteside County marks 25 years of summer meal program For 25 years, the United Way of Whiteside County has worked to provide meals to kids when they are out of school for the summer.
	Arrest made in 2023 Iowa missing-person case The Iowa Department of Public Safety has announced that an arrest has been made in connection with a person reported missing June 29, 2023, according to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Jesse George, 35, of Missouri Valley was reported as a missing person to the Missouri Valley Police Department. Since the missing person’s report was [...]
	Moline will honor veterans with National Poppy Day Moline will honor fallen warriors and contribute to the continuing needs of veterans onNational Poppy Day from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, May 23, at Jewel-Osco, Fareway, Lowes &Hy-Vee in Moline. That's where members of American Legion Post 246 will distribute red poppies in exchange for a donation. The Flanders Fields poppy has become [...]
	Two drivers transported after crash between North Scott school bus and pick-up Two students were treated at the scene and released, but both drivers were taken to a hospital.
	Scott County Sheriff's Office investigating crash involving school bus An initial investigation found that a North Scott school bus was traveling on 270th Street when the driver, according to police, failed to yield at an intersection.
	School bus crash sends 2 to hospital The crash is under investigation and charges are pending. Officials said names are being withheld until the investigation is done.
	QCA school bus and truck involved in collision Drivers involved in a collision of a truck and school bus were transported to a nearby hospital. According to a release from the Scott County Sheriff's Office, the Scott Emergency Communications Center received a report May 18 at approximately 3:44 p.m. of a motor vehicle collision between a bus and pickup truck. Initial investigation showed [...]
	Rep. Sorensen introduces bill aimed at bringing low-cost drugs to market faster Sorensen said the Stop Games Act would let the FDA deny petitions that are filed to delay approval of generic drugs.
	Construction begins for Davenport quiet zone, expected to complete in August For those who live in or near downtown Davenport, a common sound is the blaring horns of trains passing through town along the river. As each train makes its way through, they blow their horn 20 to 25 times. Just about 20 trains traverse the Davenport rails each day. That adds up, especially for the [...]
	Hy-Vee offering free breakfast to veterans, active duty members The breakfast will be held from 6-10 a.m. and includes options such as eggs, biscuit, gravy, hashbrowns and more.
	One more chance for late night showers and storms in the Quad Cities While most of our days have been fine weather-wise lately, some of our nights have been stormy. That trend continues Monday night. There's another chance for showers/storms late Monday night (around midnight) and Tuesday morning. Then we dry things out for the middle of the week. It does get a bit cooler too, with highs [...]
	Sand proposes pharmacy benefit manager regulations to lower prescription drug costs Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand said lowering prescription drug costs would be a top priority if he’s elected governor.
	Iowa soldier surprises kids with return home Sergeant Brandon Chapple surprised his kids during a dance class on Saturday morning.
	The Waiting Child: Britt loves sports and art; waits for a Big Brothers Big Sisters ‘Big’ More than 200 kids in the area are on the waiting list for a ‘Big.’ Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley needs volunteers to spend time with them. In this week’s The Waiting Child, Our Quad Cities News' Eric Olsen introduces us to Britt, a lover of art and all kinds of sports. [...]
	Cambridge, Illinois, man sentenced to federal prison for attempting to entice a minor He was charged with one count of attempted enticement of a minor and pleaded guilty to the charge during a hearing on Jan. 13, 2026.
	Thousands busted in Iowa’s crackdown on driving with phones After a grace period where drivers received warnings, police are now cracking down with tickets -- and they’re writing thousands.
	United Township student athletes ink their names to play at college More than three dozen Panthers will take their game to the collegiate level.
	Bishop Hill to host benefit to raise money for Honor Flight of the Quad Cities Bishop Hill will once again host a benefit to raise money to support the Honor Flight of the Quad Cities.
	Davenport truck driver inducted into national hall of fame Matthew Dosland recognized for 27 years and 3 million miles without preventable accident.
	Dog saved by Iowa State University veterinarian program walks stage at graduation Honey the dog was hit by a car in December, suffering multiple skull and facial fractures.
	See the Davenport city council's strategic priorities for 2026-2027 The Davenport City Council has unanimously approved its 2026-2027 Strategic Priorities , establishing a vision to guide decision-making, capital investments, and community initiatives over the next two years and beyond, according to a news release. Read the document here. The strategic priorities were developed after a two-day city council workshop in February, facilitated by Strategic [...]
	Illinois politics latest: Budget deadline, AI legislation, federal drug discount expansion proposal Illinois lawmakers are working to get several bills and the state budget through before the spring session ends. Capitol News Illinois' Ben Szalinski explains.
	Why you should care about 2 power companies merging. Hint: affordability NextEra Energy plans to acquire Dominion Energy to create the largest electricity producer in the United States.
	Iowa law enforcement to ramp up seatbelt enforcement campaign through rest of May The seatbelt-focused enforcement campaign will run from Monday to May 31.
	Safety tips on the water for National Safe Boating Week May is National Water Safety Month, and as the weather warms up and more and more boaters are getting out on the water here in the QCA, it's never too late to learn about being safe out on the water. Charles Brennan joined Our Quad Cities News with safety tips for National Safe Boating Week. [...]
	Iowa-grown groceries coming to Davenport gas station InConvenience Inc was awarded a $9,190 cost-share grant from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship that will increase the market access of Iowa-grown products at the Gas Spot at 303 W. Locust St. in Davenport.
	Memorial Day weekend bike races return to Burlington, Muscatine and Davenport The Snake Alley, Melon City and Quad Cities Criteriums are all racing through three of our hometowns this weekend, with urban settings perfect for spectators.
	Honor those lost by suicide or drug overdose at Ride 4 Recovery Honor those lost by suicide or drug overdose and enjoy a great day of riding. Jack Irish from the Broken Spokes Motorcycle Club and Todd Noack from Life Connections joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Ride 4 Recovery. For more information, click here.
	Hy-Vee to offer free breakfast for veterans, active-duty service members This week, all veterans and active-duty military service members are invited to enjoy a free breakfast at all Hy-Vee locations.
	'SNL' just wrapped its 51st season: It's time to cruelly rank its musical guests The latest season of Saturday Night Live felt transitional in many ways, but it was full of blockbuster pop stars, up-and-coming bands and musical legends. We ranked them from worst to best.
	United Way of Whiteside County's free summer meal program returns May 27 Meals will be distributed from noon to 12:30 p.m. at participating sites every Wednesday from May 27 to August 5.
	Police: Man charged with arson after dousing rooms in gasoline A Bettendorf man has been charged with arson after police said he doused rooms inside his home in gasoline.
	Memorial Day weekend bike races return to Burlington, Muscatine and Davenport The Snake Alley, Melon City and Quad Cities Criteriums are all racing through three of our hometowns this weekend, with urban settings perfect for spectators.
	Dinosaurs kick off Musser Library summer reading program The Musser Public Library is kicking off its 2026 Summer Reading Program with a program where visitors can learn about dinosaurs. “Dinos at the Dome,” the kickoff celebration for the library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Unearth a Story,” will be on Wednesday, June 3 from 4:30–6:30 p.m. at Musco Sports Center, 500 S. Houser Street [...]
	Iowa State Rep. Ken Croken to hold meeting on recent ICE activity in Davenport The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Davenport Public Library Fairmount Branch.
	The best US cities for dentists to find opportunity The best US cities for dentists to find opportunityLocation might just be one the most underrated business decision a dentist makes. A new analysis of 98 U.S. metro areas by Clarify Capital, which weighs salary data, job concentration, patient search demand, Yelp ratings, and 10-year employment projections reveals a significant variation in opportunity across the country. The findings, further supplemented by a national survey of 156 dental professionals, point to clear winners across the country and highlight a workforce crisis that is reshaping how practices operate.Read on as Clarify Capital shares the top U.S. cities for dentists.Overall rankings: The 5 top cities for dentistsScottsdale, ArizonaRaleigh, North CarolinaOrlando, FloridaCharlotte, North CarolinaMiami, FloridaScottsdale, Arizona, ranks No. 1 overall in the country. It achieves this ranking by combining strong job availability, top-five patient search demand, and the second-highest projected job growth in the country over the next decade.However, Scottsdale's top ranking is not driven by salary levels alone. It actually placed 22nd in that category. Instead, it wins on the fundamentals of market penetration: a concentrated job market, high consumer demand, and long-term growth outlook. For dentists thinking beyond their first job and more towards building or acquiring a practice, it’s a combination that is hard to beat.In second place is Raleigh, North Carolina. With the highest dental job concentration in the country and a 16th-place salary ranking, it is a rare pairing of volume and compensation that makes it a desired location. Orlando, Florida, rounds out the top three, being in the top five for patient search interest and 15th for employment concentration.Charlotte, North Carolina, earned its spot as fourth on the list by being registered as the second-highest "dentist near me" search volume in the country, based on Google Trends data, signaling strong unmet patient demand. Charlotte, and the fifth-place city of Miami, also reflect a broader pattern in the data: The markets where patients are actively searching for care tend to also be the markets where dental businesses have the most room to grow.The category-specific winners by cityLocation isn’t the only factor at play for new dentists looking to start up a business. There are four subfactors that many take into account: earning potential, patient demand, job market growth, and patient satisfaction. Each of these subfactors has winning cities in its own right that make them worth considering.1. Where dentists are earning the mostCape Coral, Florida ($275,110 average annual salary)Boston, Massachusetts ($251,390)Houston, Texas ($240,340)Oklahoma City, Oklahoma ($234,890)Tampa, Florida; St. Petersburg Florida (tie) ($233,450)Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data on average dentist salaries, Cape Coral, Florida, dentists earn an average of $275,110 per year. This is approximately $24,000 more than the second-highest city on the list, which is Boston, at an annual average salary of $251,390. Just a little bit under is Houston, with dentists earning an average annual pay of $240,340.These three cities represent significantly above-average earning potential relative to the national picture. For recent graduates who are carrying substantial student loan debt, a common reality in dentistry, salary geography can meaningfully accelerate financial recovery.2. Where patient demand is highestCleveland, Ohio (57,132 “dentist near me” searches per 100,000 residents in the last year)Charlotte, North Carolina (49,737)Atlanta, Georgia (48,867)Orlando, Florida (46,532)Scottsdale, Arizona (41,826)Interestingly enough, Cleveland leads all metros with 57,132 "dentist near me" searches per 100,000 residents. This is the unique city that beat out Charlotte, with nearly 15% more search volume. Atlanta (48,867) rounds out the top three for search demand with 48,867 inquiries. High search volume is a meaningful proxy for unmet need, as markets where residents are actively looking for dental care tend to support stronger new patient acquisition, shorter ramp-up times for new practices, and greater pricing power.3. Where the job market is growing fastestNew Mexico (26.6%)Utah (21.3%)Arizona (20.5%)New York (19.8%)Connecticut; Idaho (tie) (18.8%)New Mexico is the winner of this category and leads all states with a projected 26.6% increase in dental employment over the next decade, followed by Arizona at 20.5%, and New York at 19.8%. Job growth projections are measured at the state level, meaning individual cities within these states can benefit broadly. For dentists who are earlier in their careers, practicing in a high-growth state compounds opportunity over time. Benefits including more positions, more partnerships, and more acquisition targets as retiring dentists exit the market can elevate your career.4. Where patients are the most satisfiedSanta Ana, California (4.74 average Yelp rating)Anaheim, California (4.73)Irvine, California (4.72)San Jose, California (4.7)Honolulu, Hawaii; Long Beach, California; Los Angeles, California (tie) (4.67)Patient reviews matter, and Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Irvine, all in California, averaged Yelp ratings between 4.72 and 4.74 stars. These are the highest patient satisfaction scores in the study. High ratings in these Southern California markets suggest both quality of care and strong patient-practice relationships. Irvine also recorded the highest dentist density in the study at approximately 1,014 dentists per 100,000 residents on Yelp, which indicates a highly competitive but clearly demand-heavy market.The dentist staffing crisisBeyond the city-by-city rankings, survey data reveals a systemic challenge facing dental practices nationwide. Some of the key callouts spell a stark story:60% of practices are currently hiring.84% of hiring practices report difficulty filling open roles.72% of dental professionals say there is a dentist shortage in their area.57% report that staffing shortages are causing patient care delays.11% of practices now offer student loan repayment as a recruiting incentive.Part of this is likely driven by the fact that dental hygienists are apparently harder to recruit than dentists themselves. With 40% of practices struggling to fill hygienist roles versus 22% for dentist roles, it’s clear there’s an underlying issue.The hygienist gap is particularly significant because hygienists drive a large share of preventive care revenue, such as the average bi-annual checkup. When dental chairs sit empty, the financial impact can compound quickly. Patients seeking routine cleanings are often the first to experience delays, and this can lead them to seek out new offices to get their work done.The bottom line for dentistsThe data makes a clear case that where a dentist chooses to practice is both a material financial and career decision. Markets like Scottsdale, Raleigh, and Cape Coral seem to combine the factors that matter most: patient demand, job availability, compensation, and long-term growth. At the same time, though, the workforce data signals that practices in virtually every market are operating under strain. Dentists who can identify high-opportunity markets to build practices positioned to both attract and retain staff will be better placed to capitalize on the demand that is clearly there.MethodologyFor their study, Clarify Capital ranked 98 U.S. metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) using six weighted metrics drawn from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), ONet, Yelp, and Google Trends:Average dentist salary — BLS MSA-level data (25% weight)Employment per 1,000 jobs — BLS workforce concentration (25% weight)Search interest: "dentists near me" per 100K residents — Google Trends, 2024/2025 (20% weight)Dentist listings per 100K residents — Yelp (10% weight)Average Yelp rating — patient satisfaction proxy (10% weight)Projected 10-year job growth — ONet state-level data (10% weight)A national survey of 156 dental industry employees — including dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and office managers — supplemented the quantitative rankings. Only MSAs with complete data across all six metrics were included. Where city-level data were unavailable, MSA-level averages were applied. Job growth projections reflect state-level figures due to data granularity constraints.This story was produced by Clarify Capital and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	House parties are the new speed dating: The surprising dating trends taking over in 2026 House parties are the new speed dating: The surprising dating trends taking over in 2026Years ago, a first date meant dinner and drinks after bumping into an interesting person at the gym, grocery store, or coffee shop. More recently, it was a meetup after an initial connection on a dating app. Today, however, it might increasingly mean chatting someone up at a house party, indicating an unexpected shift in where American romance is heading.Across the country, singles are quietly rewriting the rules of courtship. This has been driven mainly by a combination of financial pressure, digital exhaustion, and a growing appetite for genuine connection. PeopleWin has compiled the facts and data from leading sources, including Tinder, Mashable, BMO, CNBC, Psychology Today, and more, to show how smaller settings, lower budgets, and a new emphasis on saying what you mean are the new hallmarks of dating.The data: ‘Date-flation’ and the true cost of loveIn 2026, love isn’t free, and the numbers are striking. Based on BMO’s Real Financial Progress Index, pulled from a sample of over 2,500 U.S. adults, the average all-in cost of a date has jumped to an astounding $189 in early 2026. Before gasping at the number, consider that this factors in everything, including predate grooming, transportation, and the actual outing itself. This is a 12.5% jump from $168 in 2025.This amount adds up quicker than you may think. Americans who dated throughout 2025 and into 2026 spent an average of $2,323 on dates during a 12-month period. There are also no signs of leveling off.There is a pronounced generational breakdown. Millennials are leading with an average cost of $252 per date, while Gen Z is right behind at around $205. For perspective, this rivals many average nightly hotel stays.The result of this increase? More and more singles are starting to pull back.That same BMO survey found that half of Americans said they had gone on fewer dates or chosen less expensive activities simply because of the rising costs. This directly caused a drop in average date frequency from 14 outings to roughly 12 year over year. On top of this, 47% of singles polled said that, for them, dating was not financially worth it.The Kinsey Institute, based at Indiana University, yielded similar findings in a joint study with DatingNews.com. In their data, 37% of daters were pulling back, with 33% citing the economy as the reason.BMO’s data also revealed something interesting about those who are continuing to date. Their researchers call it a “K-shaped” dating economy. Essentially, some singles are cutting costs to zero, while others are continuing to spend freely, resulting in a familiar “K” shape on a graph. Roughly 14% of Americans in that study reported that a typical date costs them nothing, up from 12% a year earlier.As opposed to expensive restaurant visits at a new spot, people are swapping old-fashioned date ideas in favor of picnics, hikes, or home-cooked meals. When Americans are spending money on dates, those in the first group of the K-economy are minimizing wherever possible. The joint study uncovered that 35% of American singles are opting for coffee dates as a lower-stakes, lower-cost alternative to drinks and dinner. It’s clear money has become a factor in how singles are viewing the dating scene.The decline of traditional dating formatsMoney isn’t the only reason first dates look different today compared to 20 years ago. There have been two additional drivers of note behind the shift:1. Dating app fatigue has hit a tipping pointFor younger audiences, it can seem like apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble are the primary way people meet today. Despite how it feels, it’s certainly not the only way. However, this disillusionment, coupled with the retreat from expensive dates, is leading to a unique type of frustration.A Gen Z-focused study from Forbes showed that 79% of those surveyed found that all dating app users experienced burnout at some point. Women were particularly affected: around 80% cited fatigue, compared with only 74% of men who were asked the same question. The primary drivers mentioned were a lack of meaningful connections, disappointment in people seen, consistent rejection, and repetitive conversations.The dissatisfaction with how many people meet nowadays is measurable in other ways too. Data from Global Dating Insights found that U.S. searches for the term “matchmaker” nearly doubled between January 2025 and January 2026. This was an increase from 2,370 monthly searches to 4,930. Projections suggest further growth to around 6,500 by mid-2026.The surge reflects what is emerging as a key truth: modern generations aren’t anti-dating. Rather, they are anti-algorithm.2. Expensive and high-pressure events create troubleThe second source of increased frustration is the actual locations of historical dates. Traditional speed-dating events and formal singles mixers tend to be costly and higher pressure. These are two qualities increasingly at odds with what singles say they want today. One matchmaking service launched in 2025, called It’s Just Lunch, sets up dates that feel more intentional and less performative. The hope is to provide something more organic to a modern generation of daters.The new dating formats taking over in 2026With traditional dates on the outs due to costs and frustration in the dating market, the question of what a date looks like in 2026 remains. Generally speaking, there are three main strategies:1. House parties and friend-hosted gatheringsFirst, one of the clearest emerging trends is what Tinder has named “Friendfluence” in its 2025 Year in Swipe report. This centers around the growing role mutual social networks have played in facilitating romantic connections. This signals a broader return to the way many couples met historically. Whether through friends, at social gatherings, or in low-stakes shared settings, in-person meets are valued again. It’s just the dates themselves that differ.In practice, this often looks like meeting someone at a house party, a backyard dinner, or a simple, casual group hangout. Psychology Today similarly noted that friend networks serve as a natural vetting mechanism, allowing daters a baseline of trust before any one-on-one interactions, which many dating apps lack. They do caution, however, that some people may not want to date people with the personality of their friends, which is often a present factor in those matched via friendfluence.2. Activity-based and low-cost datesWith people yearning for a return to in-person first meetings, the dates they go on are changing as well. Activity-based dating has gained traction as an alternative to dinner and drinks because of lower costs. Experts quoted in the New York Post in late 2025 recommend sports leagues, fitness classes, hiking groups, and community events as effective avenues for meeting potential partners or for date spots.The logic here is fairly straightforward. Shared activities create natural conversation, reduce the pressure of sustained eye contact, and cost significantly less than a restaurant meal.3. Slow dating and intentional connectionFinally, it’s not just how people meet and what they do. There is also a broader philosophical shift toward what is being called “slow dating.” Rather than going through a high volume of quick-impression dates, often referred to as “hookup culture,” many modern daters are signaling a desire to have fewer interactions. The catch is they want those to be intentional.The goal is to move back toward depth over volume, getting to know someone across a longer arc of time. All this is in the name of deciding if this is the right match for you.What experts are saying about emotional honestyPerhaps the most significant change in modern dating, though, is something that’s harder to label than spending habits or app usage. However, experts insist it’s no less real.Singles entering the dating market are now more emotionally self-aware than their previous cohorts. They're also more willing to say so.In Tinder’s Year in Swipe 2025 report, it announced that 2026 would be the year of no mixed signals. Young singles described themselves as heading into the new year as more open, honest, and emotionally fluent than ever before. For those in older generations, this may not seem like an issue.However, Hinge’s 2025 Gen Z D.A.T.E Report offers a nuanced look at this emotional landscape. This view shows the scope of the problem.The study, which surveyed roughly 30,000 Hinge users worldwide, found that 84% of Gen Z daters wanted to find new ways to build deeper emotional connections. However, they were also significantly more hesitant than millennials were in initiating deep conversations early on. To put a number on this, 36% of Gen Z daters were more reluctant than millennials. This number was so vast that Hinge researchers dubbed it “The Communication Gap.”The gap also has a gendered side to it. Based on Hinge’s data, 49% of heterosexual Gen Z women were hesitant to start deep conversations. This was because they wanted the other person to go first, yet only 17% of Gen Z men said the same. Conversely, 42% of heterosexual Gen Z women claimed the men they date don’t want meaningful early conversations. However, 65% of Gen Z men say they do.This study is an interesting dynamic, showing that both parties are holding back because of an assumption that the other party doesn’t want depth.Additionally, a consistent set of values has emerged as markers of romantic desirability in various studies. BMO’s research outlined that the top three attractive financial traits reported for partners are financial responsibility, having a good plan, and a willingness to talk openly about money. Authenticity and communication are what modern daters are seeking.Dating expert Julie Spira, writing for CyberDatingExpert.com, noted that 2026 was to be the year of emotional green flags. A potential partner being self-aware, communicative, and capable of vulnerability is closely watched. The desire to be known, not just found attractive, appears to be the defining romantic aspiration leading the charge throughout this year.What this means for singles in 2026Taken together, all of these trends suggest that the dating landscape in America is undergoing a shift. The app-driven, high-volume, and high-cost model that created so many frustrations in the 2010s and early-2020s is losing ground to something slower, cheaper, and, in many ways, more demanding. Real conversations, social accountability, and emotional honesty now dominate the dating world.The shift is clearly not happening uniformly. With a “K-shaped” dating economy, some singles are still spending more than ever to try to woo a partner, while others have opted out entirely. App usage, while fatiguing, still remains the primary method for meeting new people in 2026. Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and other competitors aren’t likely to go anywhere anytime soon.However, the direction of the shift is clear. In-person and low-cost events with a focus on building genuine connections over time are making a comeback. This means a modern dater should show up to a house party, meet someone through a friend, and simply say what they’re looking for. After years of infinite scrolling and curated profiles, this may be exactly what a generation of exhausted daters is ready for.This story was produced by PeopleWin and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	This Ebola outbreak raises questions about when it all began — and the U.S. response The sheer number of cases and deaths are a sign that the outbreak might have been smoldering before the virus was identified.
	Rotary Club of Bettendorf to host 20th annual Lobsterfest Guests will enjoy a delicious menu featuring a 5 oz. lobster tail, steak, sides, a special treat of lobster bisque, dessert, and hosted beer, wine, champagne, and soda, event organizers said.
	Centennial Bridge may be torn down for new Mississippi River crossing Local preservationists are worried the iconic Centennial Bridge may be demolished as Illinois and Iowa Departments of Transportation pursue a preferred alternative in a study of the U.S. 67 corridor.
	How QR Codes are turning CPG packaging into updatable infrastructure How QR Codes are turning CPG packaging into updatable infrastructureHave you ever paid to print a fresh batch of product packaging, only for a last-minute change in ingredients or regulations to make them all obsolete?With packaging already eating up about 15%–20% of a brand’s fulfillment costs per order, any small tweaks can increase expenses. That is the packaging lock-in problem: Once it is on the box, you are stuck with it.Dynamic QR Codes break that lock-in by decoupling content from the container. The box stays the same, while the digital destination updates in real time. It is a shift many brands are already making, with 76% of marketers in The State of QR Codes 2026 saying they use dynamic QR Codes, and 73% reporting fewer print revisions because of them. Uniqode Uniqode explores why dynamic QR Codes are becoming central to modern packaging and how they help brands maintain consistent packaging while keeping digital content flexible.Why packaging timelines demand dynamic solutionsCPG packaging operates on three-to-six-month lead times, but markets don't wait. By the time packs hit shelves, competitor pricing shifts, retailers change promotional calendars, regulations update, and campaigns pivot. Static packaging forces you to either predict the future perfectly or pay for reprints every time reality diverges from your locked-in design.The constraint shows up everywhere: Testing new messaging requires separate print runs with high minimum quantities, regional variants multiply the SKU count, and every relabeled or scrapped box counts as waste and Scope 3 emissions. With 73% of marketers already cutting printed materials and reprints due to QR Codes and about 60% planning to increase usage, the shift is clear. Treat packaging as permanent infrastructure and content as the variable you optimize continuously.Dynamic QR Codes break the locked-in constraints by separating what must be permanent, such as the physical pack, from what needs to stay flexible, such as the content behind the code.Here's where that separation delivers the most operational value.Four ways dynamic QR Codes move faster than print cyclesDynamic QR Codes unlock four operational areas, enabling CPG teams to gain control after packaging ships. These aren't theoretical benefits but operational workflows that packaging managers, brand teams, and product managers are using right now to move faster than their print cycles.Here's how the flexibility shows up in practice.1. Post-launch controlPost‑launch is where static packaging usually lets brands down. Dynamic QR Codes change that by turning every pack into a doorway you can keep updating without another print run.Campaign evolutionIn March 2025, The Coca-Cola Company relaunched its “Share a Coke” campaign with QR Codes on select cans and bottles that directed consumers to a digital hub. There, people could personalize virtual bottles, create shareable content, and engage with interactive experiences tied to the campaign.While Coca-Cola continued offering popular names on physical packaging, the QR Code layer extended the campaign beyond what was possible on pack. It gave the brand the flexibility to refresh digital experiences, highlight new features such as the “Memory Maker” tool, and sustain engagement throughout the campaign without changing the printed cans.Regulatory complianceGlobal CPG brands, including Coca-Cola, use dynamic QR Codes to keep allergen, nutritional, and sourcing information current across markets without reprinting labels every time a formula or disclosure rule changes. When operating in dozens of countries with varying requirements, one code serves all markets, with the destination updating to match local regulations.Seasonal adaptationGeneric on‑pack copy has to stay bland enough to work in January and July, so it never quite lands fully for either. A dynamic QR Code lets you keep neutral packaging but swap in season‑specific content. For example, a soup brand can serve light summer recipes when it is hot, heartier cold‑weather ideas in winter, and back‑to‑school lunch hacks in September — all from one code.2. Regional and market flexibilityManaging regional variants is one of the biggest operational headaches in CPG packaging. Different languages, state-specific warnings, and retailer requirements traditionally meant separate SKUs.Let’s look at how dynamic QR Codes help here.Geographic routingOne dynamic QR Code localizes everything behind it. It can offer Spanish content in Miami, English in Boston, and state-specific warnings in California. Texas scans can go to an in-state retailer while Oregon scans go somewhere else, all without changing the carton.Since about 32% of marketers already monitor scan locations, many brands already have the insights needed to tailor each destination by region.Retailer-specific experiencesThe same printed code can direct a Walmart shopper to Walmart rewards and a Target shopper to Target's ecosystem, eliminating the need for separate "Walmart packs" and "Target packs." This consolidation reduces SKU complexity while delivering retailer-specific experiences that drive loyalty program enrollment and repeat purchase.Market testing without inventory riskDynamic QR Codes also help brands test broader positioning and demand signals before committing to large-scale packaging changes. Instead of printing multiple regional variants, brands can route scans from different locations to tailored messaging. Premium storytelling might resonate more in one region, while value-driven offers or bundle messaging perform better elsewhere.Because the packaging stays the same, brands can compare engagement and conversion data across markets before deciding which positioning to scale. This reduces the risk of overproducing region-specific SKUs and ensures future print runs are guided by real consumer behavior, not assumptions.3. Performance testingPerformance improves when brands treat QR Code destinations as flexible, testable touchpoints rather than fixed endpoints. Dynamic QR Codes allow marketers to experiment with different experiences and quickly double down on what works.A/B test landing pagesA dynamic QR Code lets you optimize what happens after someone scans, focusing on improving engagement and conversions rather than testing entire market strategies.You can split your audience into two or more post-scan experiences without changing the code itself. One version might lead with a bold discount, while another opens with a short explainer or recipe and places the offer further down the page.By comparing performance metrics, you learn which structure, messaging order, and calls to action resonate best. Once a winner emerges, all future scans can be routed to the higher-performing experience, refining the user journey in real time.Message hierarchyThe first screen after a scan matters. Some brands may choose to lead with quick instructions or product guidance, while others highlight offers or brand stories. Deciding what appears first is a strategic choice about whether utility, education, or promotion takes priority.Given that 75% of consumers primarily scan to access information or support, dynamic QR Codes let brands test different content sequences and refine the hierarchy based on user behavior.Offer optimizationBrands can use the same code to test different reward structures — points, instant coupons, or punch‑card-style rewards. Considering 52% of consumers scan for deals or offers, and 83% are willing to share data for rewards, dynamic QR Codes serve as a live test bed for comparing "10% off vs. free shipping vs. bonus item vs. extra points" before rolling out the best‑performing offer across future campaigns.Continuous improvementOnce your split‑test habit is in place, the dynamic QR Code becomes a permanent optimization loop. Launch with your best guess, track where people drop off (scan but no click, click but no form, form but no use), adjust the wording, layout, or offer, and relaunch. Each iteration makes the same printed code more effective over time, and every new batch of scans teaches you something without requiring reprints.4. Crisis responseWhen unexpected challenges arise, dynamic QR Codes give brands an immediate communication channel that doesn't depend on recalls, reprints, or waiting for consumers to visit a website. The codes already in the market become real-time response tools.Product recall/safetyIf you discover a safety issue on Tuesday, the dynamic QR Code on every pack can point to a clear "check your batch, here is what to do next" notice by Tuesday afternoon. Because 75% of people say they scan mainly to get information, and 40% already scan from product packaging, you are meeting them exactly where they expect answers immediately, while you prepare for other forms of communication.Supply disruptionDanone's Track & Connect program puts unique QR Codes on baby formula so parents can see where a specific tin was produced and how it moved through the supply chain. That same setup lets Danone update the digital page for a given batch when sourcing or recipe details change. So, if an ingredient is switched or temporarily unavailable, a QR Code scan shows the latest composition, safety information, and explanation, even though the physical tin was printed long before the disruption.Competitive responseLet's say a competitor undercuts your price or launches a campaign you have in mind; you do not have to wait months for new packaging. As a marketer, you can switch the QR Code destination in hours to highlight a stronger benefit, add a limited-time offer, or point to comparison content, using the same printed code that is already on the shelf. This allows you to quickly determine whether the new message is landing and keep iterating for a better experience.Making dynamic QR Codes work at scaleA dynamic QR Code works best when the printed code stays stable, and everything else, such as content, offers, and targeting, can change without issues.Read on for some best practices.Design for flexibilityKeep CTAs evergreen, so they survive campaign rotations. "Scan for current offers" works year-round; "Scan for our 2025 promotion" dies when the promo ends. Over 60% of marketers use short, clear CTAs such as "Scan for product information" or "Scan for savings" that cover multiple jobs. Make the visual treatment brand-consistent instead of campaign-specific. Your QR Code should look like part of your design system rather than a one-off holiday sticker.Plan your content calendarMap QR Code updates to your existing marketing calendar so content stays relevant without constant firefighting. Before launch, load the destination with product information and setup guidance.During promotional periods such as holidays, back-to-school, and summer, rotate to seasonal offers and recipes. During quiet periods, focus on education, sustainability stories, or loyalty program enrollment. Schedule at least one substantive update per quarter so the experience doesn't go stale.Also, build in testing windows. Run a baseline experience for two weeks, test a variation for two weeks, then scale the winner.Test and iterateBefore launch, verify the page loads quickly on weak networks, works cleanly on mobile, and analytics fire correctly. The most common issues consumers face with QR Codes are failed scans, expired or dead links, and slow loading or broken experiences.After launch, watch week one for technical issues, weeks two to four for engagement and conversion, then schedule at least one content update by month two. Keep a quarterly refresh so the experience doesn't go stale.Coordinate cross-functionallyCustomer service, sales, regional teams, and compliance should know what the QR Code currently does and when it will change. A simple "before/after" protocol with a screenshot and a go-live check avoids surprises when people are on calls with customers.Build structure from day oneWhen you're managing a handful of QR Codes, organization doesn't matter. But as you scale across products, regions, and campaigns, structure becomes critical. The roadblocks show up fast: 33% of marketers report inconsistent tracking, 28% struggle with duplicate codes, and 22% have trouble retiring old codes. Uniqode Prevent this by establishing conventions early. Use a consistent naming system (product-region-campaign-date), assign clear ownership for each code or campaign, and document where each code lives, whether that is on packaging, an in-store display, or a print ad.Set up a retirement process to prevent old codes from piling up. These simple practices prevent the "which code is this?" problem that kills teams at scale.Packaging agility without the reprintPackaging used to lock messaging at print time. Once the box was done, you were stuck with it for the life of that production run. That constraint is breaking with QR Codes.Today, 76% of marketers use dynamic QR Codes, and 60% plan to increase their use in the next year, which shows that most brands now treat the scan as a living layer on top of their strategy.Keep physical packaging evergreen with flexible CTAs, then use the QR Code destination to rotate offers, education, safety updates, and regional tests as often as needed without going back to press. Teams that embed this workflow move faster than their print cycles, waste less budget on obsolete inventory, and learn from real scan and conversion behavior instead of pre-launch guesswork.The gap is widening. Some CPG teams are already treating packaging as fixed hardware and QR Codes as software they update in real time. Others are still locked into print cycles that can't keep pace with the speed at which markets, regulations, and competitors move. The operational advantage belongs to the former.This story was produced by Uniqode and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The end of card-funded ad spend: Why Meta and Google want businesses off credit cards The end of card-funded ad spend: Why Meta and Google want businesses off credit cardsMeta has begun requiring a subset of its advertisers to stop using credit cards to pay for ad spend, pushing them instead toward bank-based billing and monthly invoicing.For business owners like Brian Waldman, founder of Camp Snap, that shift runs deeper than a billing update. Waldman had structured part of his company’s financial rhythm around the credit card points his Meta ad spend generated, using those rewards to offset real business costs and, when the math worked out well, the occasional trip to the Caribbean.As this article from elk Marketing examines, losing card access pulls away something many founders had woven into how they actually fund and operate their businesses: a flexible, rewards-generating buffer that sat between their ad spend and their bottom line. This structure is more common than it appears, with many brands relying on credit card billing cycles to bridge the gap between ad spend and incoming revenue.Waldman’s situation is not an isolated billing adjustment. Meta’s move echoes a policy Google put into motion in 2024, when it began requiring certain high-spend advertisers to abandon card payments entirely in favor of bank-based alternatives.Credit cards are not disappearing from digital advertising altogether, and smaller advertisers on both platforms remain unaffected for now, but neither platform has disclosed a clear public spend threshold.But for the businesses spending at scale, the terms of funding growth appear to be changing in ways that could reshape cash flow strategies, eliminate rewards as a legitimate business tool, and shift more of the financial weight of digital advertising directly onto the advertisers themselves. elk Marketing What exactly is changing at MetaOn the surface, Meta’s announcement reads like routine billing housekeeping. A spokesperson described the change as “updating and streamlining our billing experience for a very small percentage of advertisers,” adding that the company is “dedicated to making the transition as smooth as possible.”Smaller advertisers generally appear unaffected for now, but Meta has not disclosed a clear public spend threshold that determines who falls under the requirement. But for those who received the notification, the practical implications run considerably deeper than a procedural update.Affected advertisers must now fund their ad spend through one of two bank-based alternatives: monthly invoicing, which operates on a 30-day payment cycle tied to an assigned credit line, or direct debit, which pulls payments automatically from a linked bank account.This does not change how campaigns enter auctions or how ads are optimized. The paid media risk is interruption. If a credit line is reached, payment fails, or billing setup is incomplete, campaigns can pause regardless of how well they are performing.Meta has not disclosed how many advertisers fall under the new requirement, and the company has declined to reveal the spending thresholds that determine who is affected, leaving a notable gap between its public messaging and the reality facing the businesses now navigating the change.What Google already didMeta is not the first platform to redraw the rules on how advertisers pay. Google began notifying certain high-spend advertisers in 2024 that their payment options were changing, giving them until July 31 to complete the transition or risk account suspension.Ginny Marvin, Google’s Ads Liaison, confirmed the scope at the time, saying that “some customers will move to bank payments via monthly invoicing or direct debit from a bank account.”Google presented the move as a better fit for larger accounts, telling affected advertisers that monthly invoicing was best suited for their accounts given the flexibility it provides high-growth customers.Google’s current help documentation also states that advertisers supported by its Large Customer Sales and GCS High Touch teams cannot use credit cards, debit cards, or e-wallets.Why the platforms are doing thisSeveral forces are converging to make bank-based billing more attractive to platforms at this scale. The most straightforward is cost.Every time an advertiser pays by credit card, the merchant, in this case Meta or Google, absorbs a processing fee that typically runs between 1.5% and 3.5% of the transaction. Chris Pollard, founder of Ads Uploader, has watched this math closely. “The savings are enormous,” he told MarketWatch.Beyond processing costs, bank-based payments and invoicing reduce the billing interruptions card payments often create, from expired cards and spending limits to fraud flags that can pause campaigns mid-flight.Monthly invoicing also gives both platforms cleaner control over large-account receivables, standardizing approvals and reconciliation in ways that card billing cannot.Underneath all of it is a basic reality of market position. Gil Luria, an analyst with D.A. Davidson, said Meta is “using every dollar of cash they have,” which helps explain why a platform at this scale would look for structural costs to trim.How large is the payment opportunityTo appreciate the scale of what both platforms stand to gain, consider the revenue base these payment changes are operating against.Meta generated $196.2 billion in advertising revenue in 2025, while Alphabet’s Google advertising revenue reached $294.7 billion, putting the combined exposure at roughly $490.9 billion annually.Neither company has disclosed what share of that revenue currently runs through credit card payment rails, so any figure citing a precise card-paid amount would be speculative. What is defensible is scenario analysis.Using 2.35% as a rough benchmark for card acceptance costs, shifting just 10% of that combined ad revenue off cards would represent approximately $1.15 billion in potential fee savings. At 25%, that figure climbs to roughly $2.88 billion. At 50%, it approaches $5.77 billion.Those figures illustrate why even a partial migration of high-spend billing onto cheaper payment rails can matter at this scale.A Real Margin Lever, With Real LimitsMoving large-advertiser billing off card rails and onto bank-based alternatives could save both platforms hundreds of millions to low billions of dollars in gross payment costs over time, depending on how much spend is actually affected. Those savings would not flow entirely to operating profit, because invoicing and collections carry their own administrative costs, but the direction is margin-positive.To put the scale in context, Meta reported $83.3 billion in net profit and $115.8 billion in operating cash flow in 2025, while Alphabet generated $129.0 billion in operating income and $164.7 billion in operating cash flow for the same period. A hypothetical $500 million to $1 billion improvement is worth having, but it does not reshape either earnings picture on its own.For investors, the numbers drawing far more attention are Meta’s rapidly rising expense projections and Alphabet’s planned capital expenditure of $175 billion to $185 billion in the current fiscal year, both of which carry considerably more weight as stock drivers than a change to how ad invoices get paid.This change is more likely to matter as a signal of cost discipline across the ad stack than as a standalone catalyst, and its full significance still depends on disclosures neither company has yet made.Who Bears the CostLarge advertisers and agencies are absorbing the sharpest immediate impact. For high-spend accounts, credit cards served multiple functions beyond simple payment.They acted as a short-term working capital buffer, a way to centralize spend across multiple brands or client accounts, and a tool for smoothing the timing gap between ad spend going out and customer revenue coming in.Removing that option adds real operational complexity, requiring bank account setups, invoice approval workflows, and procurement processes that did not previously exist. Agencies that front ad spend on behalf of clients before being reimbursed face particular pressure, since bank-based billing cycles do not always align with client payment schedules.David Suk, CEO of Baby’s Brew, captured the broader business calculus when he said his company was “looking at other avenues to market” the brand in response to the change. Smaller advertisers are not in the immediate line of fire on either platform, but the direction of travel is worth noting.SMBs rely disproportionately on cards for liquidity, and if this model expands downstream, smaller businesses would face considerably more financing pressure than enterprises with dedicated treasury teams and established bank credit access.Impact on credit card points plans and rewards programsFor the advertisers caught in this billing change, the rewards conversation extends well beyond travel perks.Businesses spending $50,000 or more per month on Meta ads could lose between $12,000 and $18,000 annually in cash back alone, based on a typical 2% to 3% return rate on card spend. Those figures help explain why the reaction has been so immediate.One advertiser posted on X, “RIP business class flights,” while another calculated their Meta ad rewards at “$400 monthly” in what they described as “free money.”Dave Grossman, founder of MilesTalk, did not find the frustration surprising. “It’s an obsession,” he said of how seriously business owners approach card rewards accumulation. The broader rewards industry, however, is less likely to feel this at scale.Card rewards are funded through interchange economics, and without disclosed data on how much total ad spend is actually migrating off cards, the impact on Visa, Mastercard, Amex, or issuing banks remains diffuse. This is a more consequential story for individual advertisers losing a real financial tool than for the rewards market as a whole.This story was produced by elk Marketing and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The rise of the single-syllable middle name: Why Faye, June, and Pearl are having a moment The rise of the single-syllable middle name: Why Faye, June, and Pearl are having a momentWhile commonplace today, having a middle name fell out of style for hundreds of years in many parts of the world, until around the late 18th century.Even when the monikers made a comeback, and throughout most of the 20th century, the middle names people received were fairly simple. Traditional names were most popular, with girls typically receiving something such as Marie, Lynn, or Ann, and boys getting names like James, Lee, or Michael. The middle name didn’t receive much attention outside of an entry on a government form or something a parent needed to bust out when their child was in serious trouble.Historically, middle names just didn’t draw much creative energy from parents. In 2025 and 2026, though, the middle name has quietly become one of the most interesting in the entire naming landscape. Spokeo has broken down data from leading sources, including The Independent, The NY Post, The National Park Service, Reader’s Digest, People magazine, and more to show how parents are using middle names to give their children more contrast, meaning, and flair. Spokeo has also identified three main trends driving the shift toward attention on middle names, leading to the revival of a historically overlooked choice.Why middle names are getting more attentionTo understand the shift in popularity for middle names, it’s helpful to outline just how much they fell out of style in the last few hundred years.According to data from the U.S. National Park Service, nobody on the Mayflower had a middle name. Very few of the Founding Fathers did. Though middle names have been around since medieval times, they were originally reserved for only those of high nobility. It wasn’t until the late 1700s that people even started considering middle names for the average person.The true jolt to the popularity of middle names occurred due to German immigration in the 19th century, according to expert interviews reported in Reader’s Digest. Germans introduced the practice more commonly and, coupled with the population growth of the country, too many people were sharing the same first and last name. This combination of factors led to almost all Americans having a middle name by 1900.Today, parents feel as if they can be more creative when choosing a middle name. Part of the reason behind this shift is the increase in first-name scrutiny. Parents often contemplate how initials may look, the popularity of certain names, and professional legibility. The middle name slot, shielded from social pressure, has naturally become a freer zone for parents to take a swing at expression.As a result, there have been three overarching trends in middle names throughout 2025 and continuing into 2026.Trend #1: Short, punchy, and perfect single-syllable middle namesThere’s a reason single-syllable names have dominated the middle spot for generations. They’re quick, easy, and just roll off the tongue. One-syllable middle names are easy connectors for multi-syllable first and last names, too. Nameberry, a leading baby name generator, notes that choices such as Ann, Jane, Lynn, Charles, John, and Lee have all topped the charts for decades.The logic behind the phenomenon is almost musical. When a full name, including middle, is said aloud, you’re essentially conducting a small symphony of rhythm and emphasis. Three-syllable first names paired with two-syllable last names are a long combination. A crisp one-syllable middle name can almost act like a rest in the beat.The evolution from classic to contemporaryJust because one-syllable names have historically topped the charts doesn’t mean there haven’t been any changes to their flair. The classics in this category have staying power due to their versatility, but today’s parents aren’t stopping there.Modern parents are keeping the syllable count low, but updating the names to be more reflective of the times. Nameberry outlined some of their most popular middle name picks from 2025. This list showed unique Western-inspired options like Boone, Jude, and Lane seemed to appeal to parents of boys, while sleek surname-style options such as Reese, Shea, and Sloane were trending for girls.Another striking development when it comes to middle names is the emergence of bold and unexpected single-syllable options. Dream, Charm, Wild, Love, and Lux are all standout modern options per Nameberry. To understand why some parents may choose this, consider a standard first name such as Sophia. Having a first and middle name of Sophia Lux as opposed to Sophia Ann adds an entirely new angle to a child’s persona.Curated single-syllable listsFor those intrigued by the idea of a one-syllable middle name for their children, here are a few popular options to consider:For girls: Faye, June, Pearl, Wren, Dove, Blythe, Nell, Rue, Lux, Eve, Scout, SloaneFor boys: Clark, Royce, Boone, Holt, Colt, Flynn, Lane, Jude, Rhys, KnoxBold, word-inspired options: Love, True, Storm, Bliss, Chance, Brave, Stone, LakeRegardless of your choice, ensuring that the middle name you choose flows naturally with your child’s first and last name should be of the utmost priority.Trend #2: Grandparent-style names are back in forceThe second trend with middle names is an interesting one. There seems to be a level of nostalgia among new parents today, as reported by The NY Post, leading to a resurgence of more traditional middle names. This trend is in direct contrast to the one where parents choose a flashy contemporary option.Baby name consultant Taylor Humphrey, in her interview with The NY Post, outlined how Eleanor, Eloise, Nora, and Margaret were among a few popular options for girls. Similarly, Theodore, Oliver, and Silas add an old-fashioned polish and are popular boy names. The primary reason Humphrey believes these older-style names are on the rise is that they offer the right mix of vintage soul with modern edge.It’s not just grandpa and grandma style names, though. Quirky old-fashioned names are also starting to trend more in the middle name spot. The Independent outlines that classic first name options such as Ambrose, Dean, Clark, Frances, and Hank have all started to appear as middle names. While the cause can only be speculated on, the most plausible option is that these names are chosen as honor names. Older generations who had those as first names are now the grandparents or great-grandparents of today’s newborns, so many parents may choose to utilize their name as the middle option as a sign of respect.This deeply personal option can be an excellent way to honor family legacies while also finding inspiration in the strength of those who shaped us. It also gives children something meaningful to carry forward. The honor name trend isn’t just limited to first names from the family tree, either. Surnames, particularly maternal maiden names, have long served as middle names. This approach lets parents honor a family line while giving their child a distinctive full name.Tips for using honor names without sacrificing flowThe main challenge modern parents may find with honor names comes down to flow. A beloved grandmother’s or grandfather’s name may create an awkward stumble in the middle of a full name.One-syllable and iambic names from older generations seem to be used more often than multi-syllable counterparts. When selecting an honor name, say the full combination out loud repeatedly. If the name ends in the same sound as the first name begins, the combination could start to blur together. Additionally, if the honor name you’re looking at is particularly long, pair it with a shorter first name to maintain balance.Trend #3: Gender-neutral middle names allow freedom and flexibilityThe final trend defining middle name choices for modern parents is gender-neutral middle names. This trend allows for greater freedom and flexibility. Per NameHatch, an AI-powered app for baby names, between 1985 and 2015, the use of gender-neutral names increased by around 88%. By 2022, names like Riley and Noah had become so popular that they ranked among the top 1,000 choices for both boys and girls.This trend shows no signs of slowing down from historical levels. In a piece on HuffPost, name consultant Lilia Corrigan said that more and more parents are choosing unisex names as they offer flexibility and inclusivity with a fresh, modern, and versatile feel. Additionally, she outlined that the middle name is an especially low-stakes place to experiment with gender-neutral naming. A parent who might hesitate to select a gender-neutral name as a first name may not have the same hesitation with middle names.Nature-inspired gender-neutral picksOne interesting byproduct of the gender-neutral trend Corrigan also notes is the rise in nature-inspired gender-neutral options. Nature has always been a rich source of gender-neutral naming, and this shows no signs of running dry. Oftentimes, these options are drawn from the landscape to signify an inherent openness.Single-syllable nature names in particular hit a sweet spot for those seeing a gender-neutral vibe. Options like Wren, Fern, Creek, Cove, and Reef are all compact options that can function smoothly as middle names. Landscape names are options that may appeal particularly to parents seeking frills-free names that are easily understood but not commonly popular.Surname-style gender-neutral middle namesBeyond nature-inspired names, options derived from surnames that are gender-neutral are also popular for the same reason: to honor family. Classic names like Blake have transitioned into widely embraced choices, as well as names such as Taylor and Jordan. Ellis, Blair, Quinn, Emerson, and Sloane are also options that fall nicely within this category. One potential reason a parent may choose a surname-style gender-neutral name as the honor choice is that they pair with a wide range of first names.Curated gender-neutral middle names to considerFor those settled on a gender-neutral option as their child’s middle name, consider some of the following popular options (including some that are more than one syllable):Nature-inspired options: Sage, Wren, River, Fern, Reef, Creek, Cove, Lark, Bay, StormSurname-style options: Blair, Quinn, Ellis, Sloane, Emerson, Finley, Greer, Hayden, SterlingBold and open name options: True, Reign, Story, Brave, Vale, North, IndigoNaming the middle groundThe middle name has come a long way from traditional choices such as Marie and Lynn. What once functioned as a formality, family obligation, or royal option has become one of the most creatively rich spots in a child’s full name. It can now be a place where parents can be bold, personal, sentimental, or even playful.Whether you’re drawn to the clean punch of a single-syllable name like Faye or Dean, the warmer weight of a grandparent’s honor name such as Bea or Hank, or simply the open flexibility of a gender-neutral choice like Quinn or Sage, there are more popular options than ever before. The only real rule you need to follow when choosing your child’s middle name is the same as always: Say the name out loud, say it often, and make sure it feels right when the whole name is joined.There are no strict rules when it comes to modern middle names, but clear patterns are emerging. For parents, these patterns offer exciting new choices to consider for their children.This story was produced by Spokeo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The mental health strategy everyone needs but no one talks about The mental health strategy everyone needs but no one talks aboutWhile many conversations about mental health focus on crisis response, experts say some of the most effective strategies are the everyday habits that support emotional well-being before problems escalate.Most people don't think about their mental health until something forces them to. The therapy appointment gets made after things become overwhelming, and the conversation about stress comes only after anxiety has become too heavy to carry.For a long time, that has often been the approach across the country, and the evidence suggests it’s falling short.A 2022 CNN-Kaiser Family Foundation poll found that 90% of U.S. adults believe the country is facing a mental health crisis. But buried in that figure is a harder question about how much of the burden might be reduced with earlier support.Research from the Mental Health Foundation underlines that point, finding that "many mental health problems can be prevented with the right approach." And researchers and clinicians have been building on that idea for years, making the case that emotional health, much like physical health, responds to consistent care and attention long before a crisis takes hold.BetterHelp examines the role preventive habits and behavioral health support can play in long-term emotional well-being.Key takeawaysMental health experts say prevention and daily emotional care are just as important as crisis response when it comes to long-term well-being.Research shows that many mental health challenges can be reduced or managed through consistent habits before problems escalate.Science-backed practices linked to better mental health include regular exercise, quality sleep, mindfulness, social connection, structured routines, and limiting digital overload.Lifestyle factors like chronic stress, poor sleep, alcohol use, processed diets, and excessive screen time can gradually contribute to anxiety and depression over time.Preventive habits can make a meaningful difference, but professionals say therapy and behavioral health support are also valuable tools, even before someone reaches a crisis point.The case for preventive mental healthPreventive care makes sense to most people when it comes to the body.Physicals, dental cleanings, and screenings get scheduled because waiting until something is actually wrong usually makes everything harder to fix. Mental health works in similar ways, even if the habit of tending to it early hasn't taken hold in the same way.UNICEF defines mental health prevention as efforts that focus on "reducing the risk of mental health problems before they start," and the Mental Health Foundation takes that further, noting that "prevention can help all of us, whether we currently have good mental health or not."Clinical psychologist Dr. Sara Thompson makes the same point from a care perspective, saying, “Preventive mental health care is about recognizing that your emotional well-being needs attention and care, even when you’re not in crisis.”Building that awareness before things get hard is often more effective than trying to rebuild stability after the fact. And researchers have pointed to everyday habits as the foundation of where that work begins.The daily habits that matter mostBuilding emotional resilience rarely comes from a single weekend retreat or a month of good intentions. According to the American Psychiatric Association, the habits that are commonly associated with supporting mental health over time fall into a few consistent categories:Physical activitySleepSocial connectionMindfulness practicesAvoiding harmful substancesThe National Institute of Mental Health adds that "even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact." Structured routines matter, too, as does time outdoors, regular social check-ins, and boundaries around screen time.UCLA Health notes that people with consistent daily routines report lower levels of anxiety and depression than those without them. Small, repeated behaviors are where the real work happens, and daily life turns out to be where most of it plays out.Why lifestyle and mental health are more connected than people realizeMost people understand that a poor night's sleep leaves them irritable, or that a stressful stretch at work eventually takes a toll. What gets underestimated is how consistently those patterns, stacked on top of each other over weeks and months, begin to reshape emotional health from the inside out.The American Psychiatric Association notes that lifestyle behaviors "can be used to both prevent and treat mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and psychotic disorders."Sleep loss disrupts the brain's ability to regulate mood. Diets high in processed foods have been associated with higher rates of depression. And alcohol, while often used to decompress, regular consumption may correlate with increases in anxiety and depression over time.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and UCLA Health also point to constant news consumption and digital overload as stressors that accumulate in ways most people don't notice until the effects are already showing up in their daily lives.None of these factors acts alone, but together they help explain why mental health is often built, or strained, through the details of daily life.The difference between wellness trends and science-backed habitsWellness advice can start to lose its value when every new product, supplement, or routine is framed as the missing answer. Reporting on the industry has shown how easily that confusion spreads. One analysis found that 33% of TikTok videos with mental health advice were misleading.Dr. Jonathan N. Stea, a clinical psychologist and adjunct assistant professor at the University of Calgary, warns that “the wellness industry blends pseudoscience with legitimate health practices.” This makes it harder for people to tell solid guidance from marketing. The pull of those trends is understandable, especially when they promise fast relief.Still, the research behind preventive mental health points somewhere less flashy. The habits with the strongest support are usually simple, repeatable, and often low cost. They ask for consistency more than novelty, which can be less exciting to sell but far more useful to live with.Why social connection is often overlookedSocial connection is often treated like a bonus, when the evidence suggests it belongs much closer to the center of how people stay well.A major review in World Psychiatry describes social connection as a "fundamental human need" linked to higher well-being, resilience, and longer life, while noting that isolation and loneliness are associated with poorer mental health.The same review found that adults who never or rarely received social and emotional support were twice as likely to report depression.That helps explain why relationships matter so much in preventive care. Friendship, community, and regular contact do more than make life feel fuller. They help buffer stress, reinforce a sense of belonging, and make it easier to stay steady when life gets hard.When preventive habits are not enoughGood habits matter, and the research behind them is real. But habits are not always enough on their own.For some people, consistent sleep, movement, and connection still leave anxiety, depression, or burnout unresolved, and that doesn’t mean a failure of effort. It’s a signal that something deeper may need attention.Behavioral health support is often associated with crisis, but the same care can also strengthen emotional health long before things reach that point. It can help people build self-awareness, work through patterns that keep showing up in relationships, strengthen boundaries, and develop a kind of resilience that daily habits alone cannot always build.Prevention is the foundation, and reaching out before things get worse is one of the most proactive things a person can do for their mental health.This story was produced by BetterHelp and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	FIFA World Cup economics: What to expect from the 2026 tournament FIFA World Cup economics: What to expect from the 2026 tournamentThe World Cup is among the most anticipated and awaited events, cherished by football fans worldwide. Held once every four years, it’s more than just a sporting competition; it's a worldwide celebration that captures the attention of millions.Given its scale and significance, it’s no surprise that the World Cup has far-reaching effects beyond the pitch. From tourism and infrastructure spending to advertising and retail sales, the tournament plays a major role in shaping global and local economies.Plus500 explores the effects of the World Cup on global economic trends.What is the World Cup?First, to understand the effects of the World Cup, it is important to dive deeper into what it is.The World Cup is a football tournament organized by the worldwide governing body of football, FIFA. Held once every four years, it brings together the top national teams from around the globe to compete for the ultimate title in world football.Since its inception in Uruguay in 1930, where the host nation claimed the first-ever championship, the World Cup has become the world's most-watched and celebrated sporting event. With billions tuning in and millions attending, it has grown in size and global significance.World Cup participantsBefore the main event, a multiyear qualification process determines which nations earn a spot in the final tournament. Previously, 32 teams participated in the month-long competition hosted by one or more countries, with the host nation automatically securing a place in the lineup. However, from 2026 onward, the tournament is set to expand to 48 participating teams, allowing more countries to compete on the world stage.Which country has won the most World Cups?Brazil has the most World Cups, having won the tournament five times.Why is the World Cup important?Beyond the sport, the World Cup promotes positive global initiatives such as education, health awareness, and social inclusion through collaborations with international bodies like UNESCO and the World Health Organization. It also offers a unique opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity and showcase elite football talent globally.What are the World Cup’s economic effects?While past performance does not reflect future results, looking back at how the World Cup has shaped the economy may still be helpful for those seeking to understand what its effects might look like going forward.Economic costs and investments in hosting the World CupOver the years, hosting the FIFA World Cup has become an increasingly expensive endeavor. Countries have poured billions into infrastructure, stadiums, and preparation efforts. For example, Qatar spent about $200 billion when it hosted the 2022 tournament, while Russia spent around $16 billion in 2018, Brazil $19.7 billion in 2014, and South Africa approximately $7.2 billion in 2010.Short-term economic benefitsIn the short term, host countries often experience a boost in economic activity. The 1994 World Cup in the United States is a notable example, with Los Angeles alone generating $623 million. Other host cities, such as New York, Boston, and San Francisco, collectively saw over $1 billion in economic gains. Hotel revenues increased by 10%, while food and beverage sales rose by 15% compared to the previous year.Similarly, Germany’s 2006 tournament generated about 2.2 billion euros in revenue. This figure was mainly driven by tourism and ticket sales. The tournament also spurred major infrastructure and public transportation investments, contributing to urban renewal and enhancing Germany’s international reputation.Long-term and indirect economic effectsBeyond immediate returns, the World Cup can leave a lasting legacy. After hosting in 1994, the United States launched Major League Soccer in 1996, boosting interest in the sport domestically and stimulating growth in associated markets such as youth leagues and sports merchandise.The 2006 tournament catalyzed long-term urban development in Germany, particularly in cities like Berlin and Munich. Improvements in transport and tourism infrastructure continued to benefit the country years after the final match, helping to elevate its profile as a global travel and business destination.Economic risks and challengesDespite the potential upsides, hosting the World Cup can also bring significant challenges. Brazil’s 2014 tournament, which cost around $15 billion, faced criticism due to the underuse of several stadiums after the event and concerns about social displacement and inequality.Impact on national GDPA nation's economic performance may be affected by winning the World Cup. Studies indicate that a country that wins the tournament tends to experience a slight but noticeable increase in GDP growth, around 0.48 percentage points, in the two quarters following the victory. This is often attributed to greater global exposure, increased consumer confidence, and stronger export performance.Shifts in consumer spendingThe FIFA World Cup consistently influences consumer spending patterns in host nations and globally. The 2022 tournament in Qatar demonstrated this clearly, with spending at official venues exceeding the 2014 and 2018 editions by the group stage alone. The majority of purchases were related to merchandise (47%), followed by food and beverages (36%), and ticketing (11%).However, broader economic conditions can affect these trends. In the United Kingdom, for example, the 2022 World Cup coincided with a cost-of-living crisis and a unique winter schedule, leading to a 17% decline in overall consumer spending compared to 2018. Despite the drop, U.K. consumers spent around 2 billion pounds, half of that amount dedicated to food and drinks for home-based viewing experiences. Spending in hospitality sectors like pubs and restaurants declined by 10%.Globally, the World Cup drives a surge in purchases related to travel, event tickets, branded goods, and entertainment. This consumer enthusiasm is closely linked to the tournament's scale, visibility, and emotional pull.Entertainment consumption and viewer engagementAs one of the most-watched sporting events in the world, the World Cup significantly affects entertainment consumption habits. In 2022, more than 5 billion individuals engaged with the tournament through various digital platforms, amplifying opportunities for brands, advertisers, and streaming services.There has also been a marked increase in sports apps and streaming services during the tournament period. Viewers spend more time on mobile and on-demand platforms, highlighting a broader shift in how sports content is consumed. Traditional television remains relevant, but digital platforms are increasingly central to the viewing experience.This rise in digital and mobile engagement benefits broadcasters and sponsors, creating more targeted and measurable advertising opportunities. With fans worldwide turning to online platforms to follow the matches, the World Cup continues to reshape how people interact with sports media.World Cup 2026: When is the next World Cup?The upcoming FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This time, it will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the tournament's first time spanning three nations.It will also introduce a new expanded format, featuring 48 national teams instead of the traditional 32. The opening match is scheduled for June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, while the final is due to be held on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in the New York/New Jersey area.How can the World Cup 2026 affect the economy?Significant economic gainsThe 2026 FIFA World Cup will deliver substantial economic benefits across North America and beyond. Projections indicate the tournament could contribute up to $40.9 billion to the global economy, with social benefits estimated at around $8.28 billion and the potential creation of nearly 824,000 jobs worldwide. The event is forecast to generate approximately $30.5 billion in total output within the United States alone, boost the national GDP by $17.2 billion, and support the equivalent of 185,000 full-time jobs.Benefits for host nations and citiesThe upcoming FIFA World Cup is projected to generate up to CAD 3.8 billion in economic benefits for Canada. This includes a projected CAD 2 billion increase in GDP, CAD 1.3 billion in wages, and the creation or retention of over 24,000 jobs. Each Canadian host city is expected to see an average economic uplift of around CAD 155 million per match, supporting roughly 1,850 jobs.In the United States, host cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and others are preparing for surging visitor numbers. These cities will benefit from increased demand across sectors, including hospitality, retail, food services, and accommodation.Tourism and consumer spendingThe tournament is predicted to draw over 1.5 million international visitors and millions more domestic travelers. The large number of attending fans will lead to a considerable increase in spending across various sectors, including air travel, accommodation, restaurants, and local points of interest. The food and accommodation sector could receive up to $2.4 billion in the U.S. alone, with knock-on effects expected in real estate, retail, and associated industries.Infrastructure and urban developmentSignificant infrastructure investments are being planned in preparation for the tournament, particularly in stadium upgrades, public transport, and urban facilities. These improvements are not only expected to generate employment in the short term but are also seen as long-term assets that could benefit host cities for decades. The lasting legacy may rival or surpass the impact of the 1994 World Cup held in the U.S.Wider economic ripple effectsThe economic influence of the World Cup will extend well beyond the host countries. Global supply chains, trade flows, and service industries are expected to benefit as demand increases for goods and services. Sectors such as real estate, air travel, wholesale trade, and professional services will likely see positive spillovers.Government revenues are also expected to rise as a result of the tournament. In Canada, for example, public sector income could increase by an estimated CAD 700 million through taxes and related contributions.World Cup sensitive stocksA number of major publicly listed companies have served as official sponsors or partners of recent and future FIFA World Cup tournaments. These partnerships often lead to increased brand visibility, consumer engagement, and, in some cases, notable movements in share prices around the time of the event due to heightened commercial activity and global exposure.Below is a list of notable companies and their roles in connection with the FIFA World Cup:Adidas – SportswearOfficial FIFA PartnerCoca-Cola – BeveragesOfficial FIFA PartnerHyundai/Kia – AutomotiveOfficial FIFA PartnerQatar Airways – AirlinesOfficial Airline SponsorVISA – Financial ServicesOfficial FIFA PartnerBudweiser – BeveragesOfficial Beer SponsorBank of America – Financial ServicesOfficial Bank Sponsor (2026)Lay’s (Frito-Lay, part of PepsiCo) – SnacksOfficial FIFA PartnerMcDonald’s – RestaurantsOfficial FIFA PartnerMengniu Dairy – Dairy/FoodOfficial FIFA PartnerLenovo – TechnologyOfficial Technology PartnerDiageo – Beverages/SpiritsOfficial FIFA PartnerVerizon Communications – TelecommunicationsOfficial Telecom Sponsor (2026)Aramco – EnergyGlobal Partner (2026)American Airlines – AirlinesOfficial FIFA PartnerThe Home Depot – Retail/Home ImprovementOfficial Supporter (2026)Time will tell how and if these companies’ affiliation with the World Cup will impact their stock performance.Key takeaways:The FIFA World Cup is a major global football event held every four years, attracting billions of viewers.It generates significant economic benefits, including boosts in tourism, infrastructure investment, and consumer spending.Hosting the tournament involves high costs but can create jobs and support long-term urban development.The World Cup drives media engagement and increased spending on related goods and services.The 2026 World Cup will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.This edition is expected to deliver even greater economic and cultural impacts across North America and beyond.Trading in futures and options involves the risk of loss and is not suitable for every investor.This story was produced by Plus500 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What international fans need to know about US travel for the 2026 World Cup What international fans need to know about US travel for the 2026 World CupThe World Cup is arriving during a period of heightened immigration scrutiny that could affect how tourism to the U.S. functions. Some fans have reported higher refusal rates, longer processing times, and tougher questioning at consulates are the environment fans.The encouraging part to keep in mind is that many of the rules haven’t actually changed. A well-prepared B-1/B-2 application is still the path many fans will take. Thorough, honest applications likely will be approved. As this article from Manifest Law explains, a little bit of planning can make it easier to remain in compliance with visa requirements for your upcoming travel.Once you’re inside the US, the I-94 (not the visa) sets your time limitVisa validity is the single most misunderstood rule for international visitors traveling to the U.S. A B-1/B-2 visa stamp can allow stays of up to six months, but Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at ports of entry decide how long you can stay and mark that on your Form I-94 admission record.The split exists by design. Congress drew a line between eligibility to enter (the visa, issued abroad by the State Department) and admission itself (decided at the border by CBP, on the day). There are two agencies, two decisions, and two separate records.Here are two quick steps you should take after landing in the U.S.:Download the I-94 from i94.cbp.dhs.gov within 24 hours of arrival. The site provides the official admission record, including the Admit Until date.Check that date against your travel plans. If your I-94 expires before your departure flight, you have been admitted for a shorter period than you assumed. Staying past that date, even by a day, can carry serious consequences for future travel to the U.S., including automatic cancellation of your visa.“The visa is permission to ask to enter. The I-94 is the permission to actually be here,” said Ana Gabriela Urizar, a Manifest Law immigration attorney. “People mix these up constantly, and the consequences can affect future visa applications for years.”Flying between US host cities? Keep a passport in your carry-onFollowing a team through the group stage will mean traveling between two or three U.S. host cities. There’s no domestic immigration check within the U.S., but you’ll want to be sure you have the correct ID for travel.REAL ID enforcement is now in full effect at TSA security. U.S. travelers need either a REAL ID-compliant state ID or one of TSA’s approved alternatives. A foreign passport is an accepted alternative for international visitors. A driver’s license issued by a foreign country is not.The U.S. requires most visitors to hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. More than 100 countries — including the U.K., Canada, Australia, India, Brazil, France, and Japan — are exempt and only need a passport valid for the length of the stay. The full list is on CBP’s website.Applying for a US visa? There’s still time, but the window is shrinkingMany fans won’t need to apply for a U.S. visa at all. If you’re from a Visa Waiver Program country, you can travel by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization. If you already hold a valid U.S. visa, you can use it. FIFA PASS is only for ticket holders who need a new visa, and only for tickets purchased through FIFA.com or via On Location.For fans who don’t qualify for ESTA, there are three steps to getting a B-1/B-2 visa.Completing the DS-160 application form online.Paying the fees.Attending an in-person interview at a U.S. consulate.Wait times for interviews vary widely by consulate. The FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS) gets ticket holders a faster appointment, but that’s all it does. It doesn’t change eligibility rules, doesn’t lower the burden of proof, and doesn’t guarantee approval. The PASS is most useful for ticket holders in countries where wait times stretch into months. If your home consulate has visa appointments available quickly, you may not need the FIFA PASS at all.Apply in your home country. This is one of the most important and least-discussed rules. B-1/B-2 applicants must apply at the U.S. consulate in their country of nationality or residence. Applying at a third-country consulate used to be common, but the State Department ended the practice in September 2025. Only a few limited exceptions exist (Colombian nationals may apply in Panama City or Brazil, for instance).Previously, applicants facing scrutiny or longer waits at home would make visa appointments in countries where they could get interviews faster. The updated policy closes that workaround.Costs. The B-1/B-2 application fee is $185, paid up front and nonrefundable. Applicants who are issued a visa also pay a $250 Visa Integrity Fee at issuance, bringing the total to $435.What happens if your visa is refusedThe most common ground for B-1/B-2 refusal is Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which says you need to prove you don’t intend to immigrate to the U.S.You need to convince the officer reviewing your application that:Your trip’s purpose is genuine and time-limited.You have the means to fund it.You have strong ties to your home country.Your answers are credible.What makes 214(b) unusual is that it flips the standard burden of proof. In most cases, the government has to show that something is wrong. Under 214(b), the applicant has to prove the absence of something, specifically that they don’t intend to immigrate. A match ticket is strong evidence of why you’re going to the U.S., but it doesn’t prove you intend to leave the U.S. when the tournament is over. That’s the gap fans need to fill in for visa officers.Saying you’re attending the World Cup may not always be enough. Holding a ticket to a match doesn’t override the standard B-1/B-2 burden of proof.A 214(b) refusal isn’t a permanent ban. Applicants can reapply at any time. But Urizar suggests speaking with an immigration attorney to get a better understanding of how to make your case clearer for officers who review your next application and conduct your interview.The interview: Be ready to fill in the blanks the form doesn’t coverYou’ll need to sit for an interview during the process to receive your B-1/B-2 visa. The DS-160, the officer reads beforehand, is mostly structured fields, like dates, addresses, who’s paying, not a place to explain your reasons for traveling. The interview is where the story gets told.Be specific in your interview. Saying “tourism” or “the World Cup” isn’t a complete answer. Be ready to tell the officer which matches, which cities, which dates, where you’re staying, when you’re leaving, and what you’re returning home to.Match the interview to the form. Inconsistencies between the DS-160 and your interview could result in a 214(b) refusal. Don’t volunteer details beyond the question asked, and don’t contradict what you put on the form.Prove intent to leave. Demonstrate you have strong ties to your home country and a history of traveling internationally and returning home. This means you need to prove it’s obvious you’ll leave the U.S. when the trip you planned is over. Officers want to see specific, documented evidence, such as stable employment with a letter from an employer, ongoing business operations, property ownership, dependent family members, or active enrollment in school.Age may play a role in the questions you’re asked. Urizar has seen heightened scrutiny for applicants in their 20s, when people may still be forming what visa officers consider strong ties to a home country.For example, a business owner in their 40s who is responsible for payroll and employees presents a clearer picture for an officer than a recent graduate with no fixed obligations. This doesn’t mean fans in their 20s won’t get visa approvals. It does mean you need to be more concrete about the specific reasons you have to come back.A travel history showing that you’ve left other countries on time when visiting them is among the most persuasive pieces of evidence you can give.Documents to keep with you, including at the stadiumThe documents that got you admitted will resolve most questions that come up during your trip. Carrying copies of your passport, visa stamp, and travel confirmations is a good idea.“Having copies of your important documents can make it easy to prove you’re in compliance with immigration laws,” Urizar said.Consider carrying:Passport with the visa stamp page accessible. Carry it on travel days, but on nontravel days, carry a high-quality copy with you, and keep the original in a secure location.Printed I-94, downloaded from i94.cbp.dhs.gov after admission.ESTA approval confirmation (if applicable), printed.Match ticket and FIFA Fan ID.Return travel confirmation for the trip.Hotel or accommodation confirmations for the relevant dates.Stadium bag policies vary by venue and will be tighter than usual during the tournament. FIFA’s official venue guides are the source of record for what’s permitted inside.Your pre-trip checklistPassport valid for at least six months past the intended departure date.Correct authorization in hand for each country on the itinerary (ESTA or B-1/B-2 for the U.S.; eTA or TRV for Canada; FMM and any required visa for Mexico).Visa application filed in the country of nationality or residence.DS-160 reflects real itinerary details.Match tickets, hotel bookings, and return flights that are printed and accessible.Documented ties to your home country.I-94 downloaded from i94.cbp.dhs.gov within 24 hours of U.S. admission, and the Admit Until date checked against your return flight.A realistic plan for any borders you may need to cross during your trip.“The U.S. immigration system can feel like a complicated test, even for short-term visitors,” Urizar said. “But it’s one that FIFA fans can pass with the right preparation.”This story was produced by Manifest Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Pautsch running for Congress again, federal funding for elections: News 8 This Week - May 17, 2026 News 8's Jon Diaz speaks with Republican David Pautsch, who is again running for Iowa's 1st Congressional District. Plus, a push for more federal election funding.
	12 employee burnout statistics that explain why burnout is a workforce risk 12 employee burnout statistics that explain why burnout is a workforce riskOrganizations can’t afford to treat burnout simply as a well-being issue.According to research recently conducted by Spring Health, 74% of employees said they have experienced burnout, while 61% of HR professionals said employee burnout has increased in the past year. These numbers make one thing clear: Organizations can’t afford to treat burnout simply as a well-being issue.The data also shows that burnout is not always obvious. Within Spring Health’s research, HR leaders estimate that about 30% of employees are experiencing “silent burnout,” a slow, less visible form of exhaustion that can show up long before someone takes leave or exits the organization. That makes burnout especially difficult to spot. It drags down performance and is easy to miss.Below are 12 employee burnout statistics HR leaders should know, what they signal for organizations, and what leaders can do next.12 employee burnout statistics HR leaders should knowThe following statistics originated from Spring Health’s research of 500+ HR professionals and over 1,500 full-time employees across five countries (the United States, Canada, Mexico, India, and the United Kingdom).1. 74% of employees say they have experienced burnoutBurnout is the norm, not the exception. In the employee survey, 23% said they are currently burned out, and another 51% said they have experienced burnout in the past.2. 61% of HR leaders say burnout increased in the last yearThe trend line is moving in the wrong direction. Sixteen percent of HR professionals said they’ve increased significantly.3. HR professionals estimate that 30% of employees are experiencing silent burnoutWithin the research, silent burnout is defined as “a slow, undetected state of exhaustion while maintaining the appearance that everything is fine” (e.g., absenteeism, presenteeism, etc.).4. Nearly 1 in 5 HR leaders think silent burnout affects at least half of their workforceAverages matter, but this number is even more striking: 19% of HR leaders estimated that 50 or more out of 100 employees are experiencing silent burnout.5. 40% of burned-out employees report presenteeismWhen burned-out employees are physically present but mentally checked out, the organization still pays the cost. This is one of the clearest examples of burnout showing up before it becomes a leave event or a job change.6. 60% of burned-out employees say they feel emotionally drained or exhausted at workEmotional exhaustion is one of the most visible signs of burnout in the data. For 3 in 5 burned-out employees, this feeling shows up.7. 46% of burned-out employees say it is harder to focus or stay productiveThis is where burnout shifts from a personal struggle to a business problem. When nearly half of burned-out employees say their focus and productivity suffer, leaders are looking at a direct performance issue.8. 27% of burned-out employees have considered quitting or job searchingBurnout can influence both employee well-being and retention. More than 1 in 4 burned-out employees said burnout has made them consider quitting or looking for a new job.9. Among employees ages 18-34, 27% said they are currently burned outMeanwhile, among employees ages 55 and older, that number drops to 16%. That means employees under the age of 35 are 68% more likely to be burned out than those 55 and older. This gap makes burnout a sharper talent risk for organizations trying to attract and keep younger workers.10. 54% of employees without adequate mental health support say they have experienced burnout in the past yearEmployees lacking adequate access to mental health support through their employer were 69% more likely to say they were burned out than those who had access to adequate mental health support.11. 61% of HR leaders say mental health leaves increased in the past yearBurnout and leave pressure are closely linked in the data. In the draft report, 61% of HR leaders said mental health leaves increased in the past year, and 16% said those leaves increased by 25% or more.12. In finance, 33% of employees say they are currently burned outNotably, those in the finance industry had the highest rate of current employee burnout within our survey.What these burnout statistics mean for organizationsEmployee burnout can affect organizations in a variety of ways, including:Productivity drag. When 40% of burned-out employees report presenteeism and 46% say it is harder to focus or stay productive, the business feels that in slower execution, more mistakes, lower engagement, and weaker team performance.Recruiting/retention challenges. Burnout can lead to rising absenteeism and resignations that make it harder for organizations to hit business goals. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, the cost of replacing an employee can range from one-half to two times their annual salary.Increasing mental health leaves. Within the research, 16% of organizations were experiencing mental health leave increases of 25% or more in the past year. Among those HR professionals, over half (51%) said rising stress and burnout among managers was an emerging trend. That matters because managers are often the first line of defense when employees begin showing signs of strain. If managers are burned out, too, the organization loses one of its best early warning systems.What organizations should take away from this dataThe benchmarking data suggests that the organizations feeling the most pressure from burnout are not treating it like a side issue.Among HR professionals who say burnout keeps them up at night:70% offer manager-specific mental health training, compared with 35% among others who didn’t say burnout kept them up at night.73% say workplace mental health is “very important” to their business strategy, versus 54% among other respondents.64% track correlations between mental health benefit usage and retention, compared with 45% among other respondents.That pattern matters. It suggests that the most burnout-concerned leaders are focusing on three places:Manager readiness. Burnout does not stay contained to the individual. It shows up in team dynamics, workload distribution, and day-to-day leadership.Strategic visibility. The organizations most attuned to burnout are more likely to treat mental health as part of business planning, not just benefits administration.Workforce outcomes. They are not stopping at utilization. They are looking at whether support connects to retention and broader organizational stability.For employers, the takeaway is that burnout becomes easier to address when leaders stop treating it as a soft signal and start treating it as an operational one.This story was produced by Spring Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	In-house SEO vs agency SEO: Which is better for your business? In-house SEO vs agency SEO: Which is better for your business?Your business has three main options for your SEO: build an in-house team, hire an SEO agency, or use both. The right choice depends on understanding the key in-house SEO versus agency SEO differences—including what kind of website you manage, how much SEO work you need done, how quickly you need results, and whether your team can actually execute the work.Here’s the quick answer:Choose in-house SEO if your business has a large or complex website, publishes content regularly, needs SEO closely tied to other internal teams, and has the budget to hire and support the role properly.Outsource to an SEO agency if you need to grow faster, don’t have in-house technical or content SEO experts, or want access to a broader team without hiring several specialists.Choose a hybrid model if you already have someone in-house who can own direction and approvals, but you need outside help with technical SEO, content strategy, reporting, and execution.To help you decide, WebFX compared in-house SEO versus agency SEO by cost, ROI, speed, and day-to-day execution.Defining in-house SEO and agency SEOBefore you compare in-house SEO and agency SEO, it helps to define what each model actually includes. While both can support your search strategy, they differ in how the work gets done, who handles it, and how much support your business needs to make SEO successful.What is in-house SEO?In-house SEO is when your business manages SEO internally through one employee or a small team. That person may sit within marketing, growth, content, or digital strategy, depending on how your business is structured.In practice, in-house SEO can include:Keyword researchContent planningTechnical SEO oversightPerformance reportingCross-team coordinationFollowing up on implementationIn some businesses, the same person also handles content briefs, on-page optimization, local SEO, and even link building.That setup can work well when your company wants SEO closely tied to brand, product, sales, or compliance conversations. For example, if your business launches products often or operates in a regulated industry, an internal SEO can stay close to shifting priorities and approvals.That being said, one SEO hire rarely gives you full SEO coverage, because it involves more than one task. SEO is a mix of strategy, technical work, content execution, reporting, testing, and collaboration with other teams. When one person owns all of it, that person often becomes a bottleneck.What is an SEO agency?An SEO agency is an outside team that provides outsourced SEO support. Depending on the agency and the engagement, that support can include:StrategyTechnical SEOContent planningAnalyticsReportingConversion recommendationsImplementation guidanceFor example, an SEO agency engagement may include:Technical strategistContent strategistAnalystSupporting specialists who can work across different parts of your campaignHiring an SEO agency gives you access to expertise you may not be able to hire internally right away.An agency can also help businesses move faster. Instead of spending months recruiting, onboarding, and building workflows, you start with an existing team that has established tools and a clearer process for getting work done.Still, an SEO agency is not automatically the better choice in every situation. Some businesses need tighter day-to-day collaboration, faster internal feedback loops, or direct ownership inside the company.The right model depends on what your business needs most from SEO and what it can realistically support over time.In-house SEO vs agency SEO: What’s the difference?Now that we’ve defined both models, let’s compare how they differ in practice. The biggest differences usually show up in the following: WebFX Control and collaborationIn-house SEO gives you more direct day-to-day control, while agency SEO requires a more collaborative workflow.With in-house SEO, the work happens inside your business, close to your team, systems, and priorities. That can make it easier to align SEO with product launches, content calendars, sales goals, and internal approvals.For example, if your product team changes positioning for a core service, an internal SEO may hear about it sooner and adjust supporting pages faster.Meanwhile, with an agency, you still set priorities and approve direction, but the work usually involves more communication, shared timelines, briefs, and feedback loops. That means your in-house team stays involved, but the workflow depends more on coordination than direct day-to-day control.Expertise and coverageIn-house SEO usually gives you narrower coverage, while agency SEO often gives you broader specialist support.A single in-house SEO professional may be strong in some areas and less experienced in others. For example, they may excel at content strategy but have limited experience in technical SEO.SEO agencies usually bring broader coverage because they work with specialists across functions. That can include technical SEO, content strategy, on-page optimization, local SEO, analytics, and AI search visibility. Instead of relying on one person to cover every discipline, you gain access to a team.This is why comparing one salary to an agency retainer can be misleading. In many cases, you’re comparing one person’s capacity with a broader team’s coverage.Speed to executionIn-house SEO often takes longer to ramp up, while agency SEO can usually start faster.You need time to define the role, recruit candidates, hire well, onboard them, and integrate SEO into the way your teams work. If the person needs help from writers, developers, designers, or leadership, you also need time to build those working relationships.For example, a new internal SEO hire may spend the first few months learning the brand, auditing the site, understanding the team structure, and figuring out how to get changes implemented. That ramp-up is normal, but it does affect speed.An agency can usually begin faster because the people, tools, and workflows already exist. The agency still needs time to learn your business, but it does not need to build an SEO function from scratch.ScalabilityScaling in-house SEO usually means adding people or internal support, while scaling agency SEO often means expanding support within an existing outside team.For example, if your business wants to launch SEO campaigns across several product lines, one internal SEO may not be enough. You may need a writer, a technical resource, and stronger analytics support to scale effectively.Agency SEO usually scales more easily because the support structure already exists. If priorities change, the agency can often shift more resources into technical work, content planning, reporting, or testing without forcing you to build a larger internal team.Agencies still have limits, of course. Scope, budget, and communication still shape how far and how fast they can scale.Cost structureIn-house SEO usually spreads costs across salary, tools, support, and internal time, while agency SEO typically packages support through retainers, project fees, or consulting rates.With in-house SEO, the visible cost starts with salary. Then you add:BenefitsToolsTrainingManagement timeSupport needed to turn recommendations into completed workIf you want stronger coverage, you may also need content support, development help, or additional hires.With agency SEO, the visible cost usually comes through a monthly retainer, project fee, or consulting rate. That fee often bundles strategy, specialist access, reporting, and ongoing support into one engagement.Accountability and reportingIn-house SEO and agency SEO often face different accountability pressures.Internal SEO teams may struggle more with implementation. They can identify opportunities, but they still need buy-in from content, development, design, leadership, or other stakeholders to get work done. When those teams have other priorities, SEO stays on the back burner.Agencies often face a different kind of pressure: They need to prove value clearly and consistently.That usually means stronger reporting, clearer goal-setting, and more pressure to connect SEO work to rankings, traffic, leads, and revenue.So while in-house teams are more aware of internal priorities and roadblocks, agencies are under pressure to deliver visible results.Implementation support and dependenciesBoth in-house SEO and agency SEO depend on support from other people to get work done.An internal SEO still needs support from writers, developers, designers, and decision-makers.An agency has dependencies, too. It still needs access, feedback, approvals, and client-side cooperation.But because agencies often come with established processes and broader support, they may reduce the operational burden on your internal team.How much does in-house SEO really cost?The cost of in-house SEO goes beyond salary. Based on the salary ranges we gathered, a U.S.-based SEO professional may fall into ranges like these:Entry-level SEO: about $45,000 to $65,000 per year.Midlevel SEO: about $65,000 to $95,000 per year.Senior SEO: about $90,000 to $130,000 per year.Head of SEO or director: about $120,000 to $180,000+ per year.At first glance, that may make one hire seem more cost effective than an agency retainer. But when comparing in-house versus outsourcing costs, salary is only one part of the cost.When you’re hiring an in-house SEO, you also need to budget for:BenefitsRecruitingOnboardingTrainingSEO tools and softwareManagement overheadThen there is the execution layer. Your SEO hire may still need support from writers, developers, designers, and other stakeholders to implement your SEO strategy.So when you budget for in-house SEO, look beyond base salary. You also need to account for the support, tools, and internal time required to turn SEO plans into completed work. WebFX How much does an SEO agency cost?Agency SEO pricing usually follows one of three common models:Average monthly retainer: about $2,500 per month.Average hourly consulting: about $51 per hour.Project-based pricing: about $1,000 per project.The right pricing model depends on the type of support you need. A monthly retainer typically makes sense for ongoing SEO work.Project pricing often works best for one-off audits, migrations, or focused initiatives. Hourly consulting can work when you need strategic guidance but plan to execute internally.Note that several factors affect agency pricing, including:Website sizeCompetition levelTechnical complexityContent needsGrowth goalsThe depth of reporting and strategy support involvedSEO agency pricing can look expensive at first. But when you compare it with the cost of building similar coverage internally, the gap may look smaller than you expect.When you hire an SEO agency on retainer, the fee doesn’t just pay for time. In many cases, the fee gives you access to specialists, tools, workflows, and reporting systems that would take much more time and money to build in-house.This is why some businesses choose agencies even when they could hire internally. They are not just buying labor. They are buying a broader operating model.Which option usually produces ROI faster?The lower-cost option does not always produce results faster. That is especially true with SEO, where speed depends on expertise, implementation, and consistency.In-house SEO can generate a strong ROI when your business has the right conditions in place. For example, if you already have internal support for content, development, analytics, and approvals, an internal SEO hire may be able to build momentum steadily and create long-term value.That model can work particularly well when SEO is central to your business, leadership understands the channel, and your team has the patience to build the function over time.Agency SEO often produces ROI faster when your business needs momentum now. You skip much of the hiring and ramp-up time.You also gain broader expertise sooner, which can help you spot technical problems, strengthen content strategy, improve reporting, and prioritize the work that drives impact first.If your team can build and support SEO well internally, in-house may pay off nicely. If your business needs faster progress and broader capabilities, agency SEO may reach ROI sooner.When should you build in-house, hire an agency, or use both?At this point, the question is less about what in-house SEO and agency SEO mean and more about which setup fits your business's requirements.The right model depends on your website, your growth goals, your internal team, and how much SEO work you need to execute consistently. WebFX Choose in-house SEO when your business needs close internal ownershipChoose in-house SEO when your business has a large or complex website, publishes content regularly, and needs SEO closely tied to internal teams.For example, this option makes sense when you already have strong internal talent, leadership support, and enough implementation help from content and development teams. It also makes sense when your business needs SEO closely connected to product, sales, legal, or compliance conversations.In-house SEO can be a strong fit when:Your website is large, complex, or updated often.Your business publishes content regularly.Your SEO work needs close coordination with internal teams.You have the budget to hire and support the role properly.This model is often effective when SEO needs to stay closely connected to your day-to-day business decisions.Choose an SEO agency when you need broader executionChoose an SEO agency when your business needs more depth, speed, and flexibility than a lean internal team can realistically provide.When it comes to making strategic SEO decisions, SEO agencies often have access to extensive resources and data that may surpass what in-house teams typically have.By leveraging the diverse knowledge base of a larger team, businesses can access up-to-date and expansive information about current tactics and strategies. Businesses can also stay agile in adjusting their annual and quarterly strategies, a benefit not easily achievable by hiring or retaining individual SEO experts.For example, if your company needs technical SEO help, a stronger content strategy, clearer reporting, and faster momentum, an agency may be the more practical choice. It can also be the better fit when your team does not have time to recruit, train, and manage a broader SEO function internally.An agency often makes sense when:You need faster growth.Your current team lacks specialized SEO expertise.You want broader support without hiring multiple people.You need help across technical SEO, content, analytics, and execution.You want a partner that can adapt more quickly as search changes.This model often fits well with lean marketing teams that still need measurable growth.Choose a hybrid model when you want both control and scaleA hybrid model combines internal ownership with outside support. For many businesses, this is a practical option.In this setup, your internal team usually owns brand context, approvals, business priorities, and internal alignment. The agency supports technical work, strategy, reporting, content planning, and execution at scale.For example, your in-house marketer may manage messaging, product priorities, and stakeholder communication, while the agency handles audits, optimization plans, reporting, and execution support. That allows you to keep strategic context close without asking one internal person to do everything.A hybrid model is often effective when:You want closer internal ownership.You still need specialized execution help.Your team can guide direction but not cover every SEO function well.You want to scale without building a full internal SEO department.Before you decide, ask:How much time can your team really dedicate to SEO?How quickly do you need to show results?Who will publish content and implement technical fixes?Are you comparing total costs or just salary versus retainer?Does AI search visibility matter in your market?This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	1 injured, juvenile cited after crash in East Moline The crash happened around 8:15p.m. at the intersection of Kennedy Drive and 30th Avenue.
	Bettendorf reveals names for two new snowplows after public vote Voters picked their two favorites among 10 names submitted by the public.
	Jury dismisses all claims in Elon Musk's lawsuit against OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Musk had sought to oust Altman from his leadership position over claims that he and others breached their duty to OpenAI's original nonprofit mission and unjustly enriched themselves.
	NPR trims jobs in newsroom overhaul as it confronts era without public funding NPR is offering buyouts to journalists as it overhauls its newsroom, with the threat of layoffs to follow. Two recent gifts totaling $113 million are primarily dedicated to NPR's tech infrastructure.
	Flood Resiliency Alliance meeting reviews flood outlooks The next meeting of the Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance will be held on Thursday, May 21 at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Community Room, 110 Manor Drive in Riverdale. The Alliance is open to the public and provides timely and educational information on flood prevention, mitigation, flood insurance, and floodplain management. Mary-Beth Schreck, [...]
	Popular types of EAP services and their purpose Popular types of EAP services and their purposeAdopting an employee assistance program (EAP) for your employees is a great way to help them thrive — it provides them with access to a wide range of services that cater to their overall well-being.EAPs trace back to the late 1930s. They were initially formed to combat the rising adverse effects of occupational alcoholism. While EAPs still provide substance abuse support and alcohol rehabilitation, they have evolved and now cover several aspects of an employee’s life, including mental and emotional health, work-life balance, and financial wellness. AllOne Health, a U.S.-based EAP provider, conducted a study to explore the different types of EAP services and their purposes both in the lives of employees and the organizations where they work.The study, which was published in the Journal of Psychology and Behavioral Science in 2025, utilized data provided by AllOne Health, covering utilization characteristics of 59,137 users of Work/Life services over a five-year period. The sample had 4,981 employers and analyzed employer industry and employee age details. The guide by AllOne Health breaks down key trends and primary purposes of EAP services.Which EAP Services Are the Most Popular?The adoption of EAPs by employers across the United States, as well as globally, is on the rise. In 2024, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 62% of all workers in the U.S. had access to EAPs. However, the types of EAP services to which employees have access will vary from one provider to another.Below are the various categories of EAP services and offerings within each one. AllOne Health Emotional and Mental Health SupportThe purpose of each EAP service under this category is to provide support and resources to help employees effectively manage personal or work-related issues affecting their emotional or mental well-being. The ultimate goal is to prevent absenteeism and presenteeism by addressing these issues proactively. Read on to examine the popular types of emotional and mental health support EAP services.Short-Term Mental Health CounselingThis type of EAP service is designed to help employees address immediate mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. These issues, if left unaddressed, can negatively impact productivity and disrupt everyday life. Some EAP providers offer in-person or telehealth counseling services to help employees manage mental health challenges.Some key purposes of short-term mental health counseling EAP services are:Early intervention: Through short-term counseling and stress management programs, EAP providers can support employees early. Such early intervention can prevent mental health issues from escalating into more severe conditions that’ll require long-term support.Solution-focused problem-solving: This type of mental health counseling is typically brief and solution-focused. The goal is to provide employees with immediate solutions and practical coping strategies that they can apply to enhance both their mental health in the workplace and their personal well-being.Confidential support: One of the primary purposes of short-term counseling is to provide employees with access to confidential support, independent of their employers or HR departments.Onward referral support: In some cases, employees may require specialized support for complex and chronic issues that fall beyond the scope of the EAP provider. Short-term mental health counseling serves as the initial point of assessment, after which EAP providers will offer referral EAP services and direct the employee to more suitable services.Crisis Intervention EAPEmployees often face crises and devastating events that can negatively impact their emotional and mental well-being, including grief, work-related or personal emergencies, and traumatic experiences. For personal crises or urgent mental health needs, in-the-moment counseling is available for immediate support. For workplace crises or traumatic events affecting the collective team, the EAP offers crisis intervention services, including Critical Incident Stress Debriefings (CISDs), group or individual sessions, crisis support resources, and other intervention and response services through overarching Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) within the EAP.The primary purposes of crisis intervention EAP services include:Short-term resolution: Crises often require immediate resolutions and coping strategies to prevent escalation. Through guided counseling and resources, employees can get all or some of the support they need to manage a crisis adequately.Trauma support and recovery: The psychological impact of distressing events, such as the loss of a loved one, can lead to trauma. EAP providers that offer this service employ various strategies to mitigate the impact of a crisis on employees’ personal and professional lives.Safety and stabilization: Certain crises can throw employees off balance, causing them to lose their sense of control and stability. One purpose of crisis intervention EAP services is to provide urgent emotional support to help such employees stay safe and regain control.Connection to further care: Through this service, assigned counselors can assess the mental and emotional health of affected employees and connect them with specialized professionals, if long-term support is necessary.Substance Abuse and Recovery SupportEAPs are a key resource for supporting employees with substance use and addiction concerns. Substance abuse recovery support and referral services give these employees access to confidential support, treatment, and recovery resources, as well as counseling to address and overcome addictions.The objectives of this service are:Confidential assessment and treatment referral: It’s best to address substance abuse issues early on, and EAPs work to identify them at their initial stages. Early identification and intervention help to minimize and prevent the long-term consequences of addiction in employees’ personal and professional lives.Recovery resources and family support: EAPs provide employees with a confidential and stigma-free environment where they can get treatment or referrals without fear of immediate job repercussions.Work-Life Balance ServicesThis category of EAP services focuses on helping employees manage work-life balance issues. These challenges can range from difficulty accessing child care to the rising needs of aging parents.Juggling work and these issues can place pressure on employees, affecting their productivity and well-being. Since the 1990s, EAPs have incorporated work-life balance services — according to available data, about two-thirds of EAP providers offer them as part of their services.Below are some of the most popular types of work-life balance EAP services.Child Care SupportWorking parents have a responsibility to care for their children while also giving their best at work. Performing this role can quickly become more overwhelming than some parents can handle, and that is where EAP-provided child care support comes into play. Child care EAP support is a service dedicated to providing working parents with the resources, referrals, and counseling they need to thrive as parents.Child care support is a popular type of EAP service — 61% of EAP providers reported offering this service in a recent global survey. Another study by AllOne Health, examining 2020-2024 internal data, found that employees under the age of 40 had the highest EAP utilization rates for this service compared to other age groups.The following are some of its crucial purposes:Parenting guidance: This service offers parents strategies for managing everyday parenting responsibilities and challenges, including co-parenting and caring for children with special needs.Work-life balance: Child care support referrals help equip working parents with the resources they need to be present and effective — both as parents at home and employees at work.Reliable solutions: In situations where it’s challenging for working parents to find practical solutions, such as child care providers, EAPs step in to provide referrals and other valuable information.Eldercare ServicesCaring for an aging parent or relative can bring a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. However, doing so and handling other work and personal responsibilities can be challenging and overwhelming. Eldercare services are a popular type of EAP offering that guides employees to minimize the stress involved in caring for their aging loved ones.The study conducted by AllOne Health revealed that employees aged 50 and above utilized eldercare EAP services more than employees of other age groups. This finding is understandable, given that older employees are more likely to have aged parents.The key purposes of eldercare EAP services are:Emotional and psychological support: While caring for aged parents can be rewarding, it can take an emotional and psychological toll on employees who also have to succeed at work. Eldercare EAP services offer confidential counseling to better cope with the stress and emotional toll that come with caregiving.Practical support and referrals: Through customized referrals and support, EAPs can direct employees to find suitable eldercare solutions. Relieving the stress of caregiving and coordination helps employees concentrate more effectively at work.Legal and Financial Wellness ServicesLegal issues and financial challenges can hinder employee performance and productivity, particularly if they lack proper support. The following EAP services in this category focus on providing legal referrals and financial wellness support to employees, helping them effectively manage these issues.Financial Counseling EAPFinancial counseling EAPs help individuals build financial wellness by addressing topics such as buying a home, budgeting, paying off debt, preventing identity theft, addressing general tax questions, and saving for tuition or retirement. A global survey revealed that out of 171 EAPs surveyed, 64% offered financial-related services. The AllOne Health study ranked financial counseling as the second most utilized EAP service, with 23% of employees using it.The primary purposes of financial counseling services include:Practical guidance: EAP providers that offer financial counseling services play a vital role in helping employees find pragmatic solutions to their financial challenges.Stress mitigation: Financial challenges can be a significant source of stress for employees. Without proper support, they can lead to workplace anxiety and distraction. Financial counseling EAP services aim to mitigate finance-related stressors, preventing them from negatively impacting mental health and productivity.Legal ReferralThis is a common type of service most EAP providers offer. Through legal referral services, EAP providers help employees with personal legal concerns, including wills, estate planning, bankruptcy, real estate, custody, divorce, and other related matters. According to the earlier-referenced AllOne Health global survey, 58% of EAP providers reported offering support for legal issues.The purposes of legal referral EAP services include:General guidance and information: EAP providers offer this service to provide employees with general information on everyday issues, such as real estate and housing, family law matters, traffic violations, and debt management.Access to legal forms and resources: A primary objective of legal referral EAP services is to refer employees to external legal experts and professionals who can provide adequate support and representation to resolve their legal issues.Health Coaching and Medical AdvocacyGood health and workplace wellness are crucial for productivity. This category of EAP services caters to the health and wellness of employees.The following are some of the most popular types of EAP services under this category.Medical AdvocacyHealth care systems can be complex for employees to navigate. To tackle this challenge, some EAP providers offer dedicated medical advocacy services to guide employees on issues such as health diagnoses, treatments, insurance claims, and medical bills. Another common feature of this service is liaison with medical providers to advocate for the best medical solutions for employees.The primary purposes of medical advocacy services include:Care coordination and planning: This type of EAP service is designed to support employees across the medical care journey, from screening and diagnosis through treatment and follow-up. It may also cover coordinating hospital and post-discharge arrangements.Communication facilitation: During key decision-making processes, EAP providers play a facilitative role to ensure effective communication between all parties involved.Emotional support: Navigating a complex health care system while also coping with a health crisis can take a significant emotional toll on employees. A common goal of medical advocacy services is to provide emotional support to such employees and alleviate the stress of navigating complex systems.Health and Employee WellnessThis is a type of occupational health EAP that encompasses several preventive health services designed to help employees live healthier lives and overcome obstacles they may encounter on their wellness journey. Some EAP providers offer behavioral health services that focus on vital aspects of employees’ lives, such as sleep hygiene and nutrition.Some key purposes for integrating health and employee well-being into EAP services include:Preventive health: This EAP service adopts a more proactive and preventive approach than a reactive one. The goal is to help employees incorporate healthy lifestyles into their daily lives, minimizing the risks of chronic diseases and mental health issues.Behavioral change: Through specialized coaching and employee well-being services, EAPs help employees modify harmful behaviors, such as smoking and poor sleep habits.Benefits of Comprehensive EAP Services AllOne Health Organizations benefit from several advantages when they choose providers that offer comprehensive EAP services:Holistic problem-solving: With comprehensive EAP services, employees can enjoy holistic support in various aspects of their personal and professional lives. Additionally, this holistic problem-solving approach eliminates the need for employees to struggle to find extra support, as is often the case when they have access to only limited EAP services.Increased productivity and engagement: When employees are supported in every area of their lives, which can impact their productivity and engagement, they perform more effectively and efficiently.Improved retention and recruitment: Comprehensive support leads to higher job satisfaction and a more positive work culture, a feature that helps reduce employee turnover. Such a reputation also helps attract and retain top talent in a highly competitive job market.Lower costs: By employing proactive and reactive measures, comprehensive EAP providers help organizations save costs, such as those related to disability and health care claims and turnover expenses.Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism: Since EAP providers that offer comprehensive services help employees address issues early, they are more likely to be fully engaged at work and take fewer days off.Equip Your Employees to Be Their Best All AroundEmployees are the backbone of any organization. They put in their time, skills, and effort to ensure that everyday operations run smoothly, creating products and services that customers can rely on. To keep them performing at their best both in their workplace and at home, it’s essential to equip them with the support they need to thrive.This story was produced by AllOne Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Investors are watching these 6 signals to beat the market before everyone else Investors are watching these 6 signals to beat the market before everyone elseIf you’re currently renting, it’s possible that you’re paying more per month than it would cost you to own a comparable starter home. Even worse: Every dollar that you pay in rent builds your landlord’s wealth, but does nothing to increase your own. As rental costs continue to rise, property investment and ownership are becoming increasingly lucrative.Property values are influenced by readily predictable external factors, making the investment guessing game a bit more straightforward. If you’re looking to join the industry as an investor rather than fund it as a renter, you’ve come to the right place. PropertyReach shares the key signifiers of a market boom to help you jump-start your property investment journey.What Does it Mean to “Beat the Market”?In short, “beating the market” means buying before demand drives prices higher. Savvy property investors keep their eye on areas where trends are likely to shift, and then make calculated purchases based on those trends.If you’re currently renting, aligning your future goals with your current budget is the best place to start your property investment journey. Curious whether you could own for less than you’re renting? A property search tool can help you identify markets where monthly rent now exceeds the equivalent mortgage payment on comparable properties.6 Early Signals to Keep an Eye Out ForYou’ve identified that home-ownership is a real possibility for you, but now what? Navigating the volatility and uncertainty of the property investment industry can be overwhelming, but knowing which resources you can rely on can make it much easier. The following list was compiled using a combination of Redfin and PropertyReach data.3 Key Indicators of Areas Worth Investing InBefore you purchase a property, you have to identify an area that’s worth the investment. Here are a few key indicators that property investors look for before they begin identifying specific properties.1. Population growthSavvy property investors keep an eye on net migration into or out of an area. An influx of people into an area increases the number of potential renters, making it a lucrative investment opportunity. This is a great sign for renters looking for their forever homes, too; an influx of people means an uptick in overall property value.2. Job growth and diversificationAn increase in employment opportunities in an area is an indicator of new industry hubs, which can be a surefire sign of lucrative investment opportunities. Think about it this way: An area that provides its residents with a wide array of job opportunities is one that not only retains residents, but also attracts them. Savvy property investors look at the trajectory of job growth before investing in an area, and home-buyers should, too.3. Infrastructural changesAreas with investor-friendly infrastructural changes (city zoning, tax incentives, public-private partnerships) are prime targets for investors. Beating the boom means keeping a watchful eye on these infrastructural changes and pouncing on opportunities before your competitors do. In many cases, these competitors include home-buyers. Keeping up to date on upcoming infrastructural changes is the best way to ensure that you purchase a property at the optimal time.The 3 Key Features of Properties Worth PurchasingOnce you’ve determined which area you should invest in, it’s time to start narrowing down your property options. Here are a few traits that ideal investment properties share. Though a similar logic can be applied to those who are looking to purchase their first home, many of these features are investor-specific. If you’re a renter who is hoping to try your hand at investment properties, look closely at these three factors.1. The property’s mortgage is already paid offWhen you’re investing to earn a profit, there are few things worse than being bogged down with a monthly payment. Purchasing a property that has a paid-off mortgage maximizes your cash flow (all rent that you collect becomes profit), reduces your financial risk (such as the threat of foreclosure), and allows you to build equity.2. Senior ownerProperty investors often prefer to do business with senior homeowners because they typically hold substantial untapped home equity. This demographic also typically lives in “value-add properties,” or properties that can be remodeled and then resold for a high profit. Ultimately, purchasing homes from older homeowners can offer a range of benefits.3. High estimated equityA high estimated equity can serve as a stepping stone to maximizing and accelerating wealth. Investors can use existing equity to build more wealth without using their own resources. An investor can, for instance, refinance an existing mortgage to use as a down payment on additional properties. Homes with high estimated equity are incredibly lucrative for investors, and equity is something investors closely consider before purchasing a home.Start Building Your Wealth with Property InvestmentsWhether you’re a renter looking to make the leap into homeownership or an amateur property investor, understanding these six signals can help you “beat the boom” and ensure that your investment is worthwhile. Property ownership means investing in your future, and focusing on these indicators can help you do so securely and strategically. This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Fatigue and muscle aches: When to be concerned Fatigue and muscle aches: When to be concernedFeeling tired or sore after a long day or intense workout is normal. Fatigue refers to a sense of exhaustion or lack of energy, while muscle aches involve soreness or discomfort in the muscles. These symptoms often occur together and can result from many everyday causes such as physical exertion, stress, or lack of sleep.When fatigue and muscle aches persist beyond a few days, worsen over time, or interfere with daily activities, they may indicate an underlying medical condition. Recognizing when to be concerned is key to getting the right care.Doctronic examines common causes of fatigue and muscle aches, warning signs that may require medical attention, and when to seek professional care.Key TakeawaysFatigue and muscle aches are common symptoms with many possible causes, ranging from minor to serious.Knowing when these symptoms signal a deeper health issue can help you seek timely care.Persistent or severe fatigue and muscle pain warrant medical evaluation, especially if accompanied by other warning signs.Understanding the difference between normal tiredness and concerning symptoms empowers you to take control of your health.Common Causes of Fatigue and Muscle AchesSeveral factors can lead to these symptoms, including:Physical exertion: Intense exercise or overuse of muscles.Sleep problems: Poor quality or insufficient sleep.Stress and anxiety: Mental health challenges can manifest physically.Infections: Viral illnesses like the flu or common cold often cause fatigue and body aches.Medications: Some drugs have side effects that include tiredness and muscle discomfort.When Fatigue and Muscle Aches Are More Than Just TirednessWhile occasional fatigue and muscle soreness are normal, certain signs suggest a need for medical attention:Symptoms lasting more than two weeks without improvement.Severe muscle pain that limits movement.Fatigue is so intense that it disrupts daily activities or sleep.Associated symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, swelling, or rash.Muscle weakness or numbness.In addition to these common causes, lifestyle factors can significantly impact how we feel physically. For instance, a sedentary lifestyle can lead to muscle deconditioning, making even light activities feel exhausting. Conversely, overtraining without adequate recovery can lead to chronic fatigue and muscle soreness, a condition often referred to as overtraining syndrome. It's essential to find a balance between activity and rest, ensuring that the body has time to recover and rebuild after physical exertion.Nutrition also plays a crucial role in managing fatigue and muscle aches. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and adequate protein can support muscle recovery and overall energy levels. Hydration is equally important; dehydration can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and muscle cramps. Paying attention to dietary habits and ensuring proper hydration can help mitigate these symptoms and promote better physical health.Potential Medical Conditions Behind Fatigue and Muscle AchesPersistent fatigue and muscle pain can be symptoms of various health issues. Understanding some common causes can help you decide when to seek care.Infections and Inflammatory ConditionsViral infections like influenza, COVID-19, or mononucleosis often cause body aches and fatigue. These symptoms usually resolve as the infection clears. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, it could indicate complications or other conditions.Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus cause muscle pain along with joint inflammation and fatigue. These require prompt diagnosis and management to prevent long-term damage.Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and FibromyalgiaChronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by extreme, long-lasting fatigue not improved by rest. Fibromyalgia causes widespread muscle pain and tenderness, often accompanied by fatigue and sleep disturbances. Both conditions can significantly affect quality of life and benefit from specialized care.Endocrine and Metabolic DisordersThyroid disorders, diabetes, and other metabolic problems may present with fatigue and muscle aches. For example, hypothyroidism slows metabolism and can cause tiredness and muscle cramps. Identifying these conditions early helps guide effective treatment.Medication Side Effects and Nutritional DeficienciesCertain medications, including some blood pressure drugs and cholesterol-lowering agents, can cause muscle pain or fatigue. Nutritional deficiencies, especially low vitamin D or iron levels, may also contribute to these symptoms.When to Seek Medical Help for Fatigue and Muscle AchesDeciding when to consult a healthcare professional can be challenging. Here are guidelines to help you make that decision.Immediate Medical Attention NeededSudden, severe muscle pain or weakness.Difficulty breathing or chest pain accompanying fatigue.High fever with muscle aches.Confusion, dizziness, or fainting.Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or warmth over muscles.Schedule a Medical Evaluation WhenFatigue and muscle aches persist beyond two weeks.Symptoms worsen or interfere with daily activities.There is unexplained weight loss or night sweats.You notice muscle weakness or numbness.You have underlying health conditions that could be affected.Taking Charge of Your HealthFatigue and muscle aches are common but sometimes signal something more serious. Paying attention to symptom patterns and associated signs helps you decide when to seek care.Remember, your health matters. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when symptoms persist or worsen. Early evaluation can make all the difference.Managing Fatigue and Muscle Aches at HomeFor mild symptoms, some simple self-care steps can help you feel better.Rest and RecoveryGiving your body time to recover is crucial. Ensure you get enough sleep and avoid overexertion. Gentle stretching or light activity can sometimes relieve muscle stiffness.Hydration and NutritionDrink plenty of fluids and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Addressing any nutritional gaps, such as iron or vitamin D deficiency, may reduce symptoms.Pain Relief OptionsOver-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease muscle aches. Use as directed and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns or pre-existing conditions.Stress ManagementTechniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress-related fatigue and muscle tension. Maintaining social connections and seeking support also contribute to overall well-being.When Symptoms Persist: Next StepsIf fatigue and muscle aches continue despite home care, it is important to seek professional evaluation. Persistent symptoms may require blood tests, imaging, or specialist referrals to identify underlying causes.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the difference between normal tiredness and fatigue?Normal tiredness usually improves with rest and sleep. Fatigue is a persistent feeling of exhaustion that does not go away with rest and can interfere with daily activities.Can stress cause muscle aches?Yes, stress can lead to muscle tension and aches. It also contributes to fatigue by affecting sleep quality and overall energy levels.When should I worry about muscle pain?Seek medical attention if muscle pain is severe, sudden, accompanied by weakness, swelling, redness, or if it limits your ability to move.Are fatigue and muscle aches symptoms of COVID-19?They can be. Fatigue and muscle aches are common symptoms of COVID-19, but they also occur with many other illnesses. Testing and medical evaluation are important if you suspect COVID-19.This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Airfare is up 21% — are travel credit cards worth it in 2026? Airfare is up 21% — are travel credit cards worth it in 2026?Airfare is up 21% year over year, according to the U.S. Travel Association's Travel Price Index — and if you've booked a flight recently, you've probably felt it. The average U.S. domestic round-trip now runs $570, roughly $100 more than it did a year ago.There's nothing any of us can do about jet fuel prices. But for frequent flyers, the right travel credit card can offset hundreds of dollars in annual travel costs through signup bonuses, travel credits, and points on every purchase.The Motley Fool Money team reviews and rates dozens of travel credit cards each year. And right now in 2026, the value proposition is stronger than most people think.Airfare is up 21%, and travel credit cards are worth more than ever for frequent flyersRising airfare actually makes the case for travel rewards stronger, not weaker.When a round-trip domestic flight costs $570, the welcome offer on a solid travel card — often worth $600 to $750 in travel — can cover that ticket almost entirely.Even a premium travel card that carries a $395 annual fee could be worth it. Many credit cards include travel credits and rewards, VIP perks like lounge access, and trip insurance which easily offsets the annual fee cost.For someone who flies two or three times a year, using a travel card for those bookings is one of the easiest ways to claw back some of what rising airfare is taking from you.Two types of travel credit cards, and how each one earns rewardsTravel cards come in two main flavors, and knowing which one fits your situation makes a big difference in the reward value you get.Co-branded airline and hotel cards are tied to a specific brand. Think: a credit card that earns miles exclusively with Delta or United, or points only redeemable at Marriott or Hilton hotels. These cards typically earn the most rewards within that brand's ecosystem and come with loyalty perks like free checked bags or complimentary hotel nights.General travel rewards cards earn points or miles on all purchases and let you redeem flexibly — for flights, hotels, statement credits, or transfers to airline and hotel partners. Think: Chase Ultimate Rewards points or American Express Membership Rewards Points.The core mechanics are similar across both card types. Users earn points for each dollar spent on the card, get a welcome offer after hitting a spending threshold within a given timeframe, and enjoy perks like travel credits or priority boarding. Annual fees range from $0 to $700+ depending on the card.The biggest value drivers for travel credit cardsThe fastest way a travel card pays off is the signup bonus.On many top credit cards, you can earn $500 to $750 in travel value after meeting a spending requirement in the first few months. If you have a trip coming up anyway, timing your application to capture that bonus is one of the smartest moves you can make.Beyond the welcome offer, here's where the ongoing value comes from:Boosted earn rates on travel and dining — typically 2x to 5x points vs. 1x on a basic cardAnnual travel credits that directly offset the annual feeLounge access — airport day passes can run $50 to $75 eachTrip delay insurance, baggage protection, and no foreign transaction fees that add up over a year of travelAre travel credit cards worth it in 2026?The answer almost entirely depends on how often you fly and how you spend. Here's how to think about it.When it makes senseIf you fly two or more round trips per year and tend to spend in the categories most travel cards reward — like flights, hotels and restaurants — a travel credit card almost certainly pays off.And if you can time an application around an upcoming trip to capture a welcome offer, that's just extra money back for money you were planning to spend anyway.When a regular credit card is betterIf you don't spend much money on travel, or the idea of managing points redemptions sounds more stressful than fun, a regular cash back card is probably the better call.There's no shame in that. The right card for you is the one that fits how you spend.Match the credit card to how you actually travel, not how you hope toOne of the most common mistakes with travel credit cards is picking a premium travel card based on aspirational travel habits instead of actual ones.Credit cards with airport lounge access can be amazing for the right traveler. But if you only fly once a year (or your local airport doesn't have an available lounge), you're not getting the true value and could be paying a premium for no reason.Here's a simple framework for choosing the right travel card for you:First, honestly estimate how many flights you take per year. If you're loyal to one airline or hotel chain, a co-branded card might make sense. But if you mix it up, a flexible rewards card gives you more freedom.Then compare the annual fee against the credits and benefits you'd realistically use. If the credits cover most of the fee before you even think about points, that's a strong sign.And lastly, it's always good practice to check your credit score before applying. Most of the best rewards credit cards require good to excellent credit — typically a FICO score of 670 and above.The bottom lineAirfare is up 21% year over year according to the U.S. Travel Association's Travel Price Index — and with jet fuel costs still elevated, there's little reason to expect prices to ease before summer ends.For regular travelers, that environment makes a well-matched travel credit card a stronger value proposition than it was a year ago.Many welcome offers alone can cover a flight. Annual credits and perks can offset the fees. And the ongoing earn rates mean every dollar you spend on travel is working a little harder.FAQsHow do travel credit cards work?Travel credit cards earn points or miles on purchases, which you can later redeem for flights, hotels, or other travel expenses. Most travel cards include a welcome offer, bonus earning on travel and dining, and perks like travel credits or trip protection. Co-branded cards tie rewards to one airline or hotel brand, and general travel cards offer more flexibility across multiple programs.Are travel credit cards worth it if you only fly once or twice a year?Yes, possibly — but it depends on the credit card. A no-annual-fee travel card can make sense for occasional travelers. But a premium card with a $400+ annual fee typically requires more frequent travel and active use of included credits, to break even.What credit score do you need for a travel credit card?Most travel credit cards require good to excellent credit -— generally a FICO Score of 670 or higher. Premium cards with higher fees and richer perks often want a credit score of 700 or above. You can check your credit score for free through many banks and credit monitoring services before applying.This story was produced by Motley Fool Money and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Missing man found ‘uninjured,’ police say Jackson Ruud, 22, was reported missing Sunday after being last seen Friday.
	Candlelight vigil held for Depue 3-year-old killed during hostage situation More than 50 people came out to honor the life of 3-year-old Damien Camacho on Sunday.
	How midsize companies are building AI-native operations How midsize companies are building AI-native operationsCorporate AI adoption has reached a turning point. According to McKinsey's 2025 Global Survey on AI, 78% of respondents say their organizations use AI in at least one business function, up from 55% the year prior. Yet for most mid-to-large companies, that adoption looks like a collection of individual subscriptions, disconnected experiments, and a tips-for-prompting PDF sent round by IT.A small number of companies are doing something different: rebuilding how work actually gets done, from the ground up, using AI as the operating system rather than the add-on.In this article, Brainlabs shares how to build AI-native operations.The core problem most companies get backwardsThe starting point is understanding what AI is actually good at. Drawing on a distinction from physicist David Deutsch, he separates knowledge work into two layers. There is inspiration, the creative, directional, judgment-driven work that cannot be reduced to a process. And there is perspiration, the mechanical execution of decisions already made. AI is extraordinarily good at perspiration. It cannot set direction. But once direction is set, it can execute faster and more thoroughly than any human.The problem is that most companies have this backward. Knowledge workers spend the majority of their time on perspiration: formatting, researching, checking, coordinating, copy-pasting. The strategic thinking gets the scraps. Building an AI-native company means flipping that ratio deliberately, not hoping it happens on its own.One platform, not twenty toolsThe first practical decision to make is to choose a single organizational platform where all AI, all agents, and all institutional knowledge lives. This decision prevents fragmentation: different teams using different tools, knowledge leaving when people leave, and no compounding across the organization.One such platform is Notion, which can be paired with Claude as the primary AI execution layer. Notion is already where work gets decided and tracked, making it a natural foundation for deciding which agents do what. It is also model-agnostic, meaning the underlying AI can be swapped as the market evolves without rebuilding the entire system. And it is accessible: every skill, every agent instruction, every workflow is written in plain English and visible to anyone in the company.The concept of a skill is central to how the system works. A skill is a set of refined, tested, plain-English instructions stored in Notion that captures how the best practitioners in the company approach a specific task. When someone on the SEO team needs to run a technical site audit, they can open Claude, describe what they need, and Claude will identify the relevant skill from the company-wide library, follow every step, and produce the deliverable. The analyst can review it, apply judgment where needed, and ship it. The skill itself improves every time someone flags a better approach, and every improvement is immediately available to everyone.The architecture underneathIn this setup, the skills library is the daily interface. Underneath it sits a more structured routing system. A central agent sits inside Notion and watches a task board. When a new task appears, it reads the task properties and routes it to the right executor. Simple administrative tasks complete themselves without any human or AI involvement. Tasks requiring external integrations — e.g., creating a Slack channel or sending a calendar invite — are handled by workers connecting to outside platforms via APIs. Complex work requiring AI and organizational knowledge calls Claude with the appropriate skill. Tasks requiring human judgment surface in Claude Cowork as assigned sessions, where the person provides direction and Claude handles execution.Every action is logged, every agent execution leaves a trace, and version history is preserved.What this actually requiresA significant risk for companies attempting AI transformation is that the person leading it does not actually understand the tools at a practitioner level. Delegating AI transformation to a consultancy, or dropping it on the technology team alone, tends to fail, because the people who define what good output looks like are the practitioners doing the work, not the people setting up the infrastructure.Companies can run structured training sessions across every region. Rather than product demos, each session can be hands-on: People can built skills for tasks they actually do every week. By the end of each session, participants should aim to configure their personal instructions and build at least one working skill from scratch. A business may also consider reframing roles around the new reality: Positions previously titled analyst or strategist are being reclassified as agent orchestrators and agent architects, reflecting what the work now actually involves.How to think about the phasesThere is no universal timeline for building this. A 50-person company could move through these phases in weeks. A company of several thousand might take a year. The sequence matters more than the speed.Phase one is organizing the data layer. Before anything can be built, a company's knowledge needs to live somewhere structured and accessible. Processes, client information, policies, playbooks: all of it in one system of record. If knowledge is scattered across drives, wikis, and people's heads, AI has nothing to work with. This is the unglamorous phase most companies skip.Phase two is selecting tooling and building the first skills. The goal is not perfection but proving the pattern works in the specific environment. Build skills for the highest-volume, most repetitive work first. Get early adopters using them daily, measure time saved, and refine.Phase three is rolling out training and scaling. Once the pattern is proven, the wider organization needs to be trained, through hands-on sessions where people build skills for their own work. Governance gets established so skills are reviewed, quality-controlled, and shared across teams.Phase four is integrating and automating. The AI layer connects to core systems: CRM, project management, client platforms, internal tools. Work starts flowing through the system with less human intervention at the routing level. Feedback loops tighten. At this point, a company is operating as AI-native, rather than one that simply uses AI tools.The honest answer on resultsThe compound effect of these efforts may take quarters to show up in performance data. That is the honest timeline, and any company serious about becoming AI-native needs to build with that in mind.This story was produced by Brainlabs and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Don’t get burned this summer by liability risks Don’t get burned this summer by liability risksEager to get that grill fired up and invite your friends over for a backyard barbecue? Before stocking up on charcoal, lighter fluid, and groceries, it’s a good idea to take stock of your homeowners insurance. That’s because liability risks increase dramatically around homes during the warmer summer months. After all, it's a time when many of us host more guests and outdoor activities that can involve pools, trampolines, fire pits, and other alfresco amenities that can cause accidents and injuries.Before you take a bite of that grilled bratwurst, chew on this: Of the roughly 140 million emergency room visits every year, roughly 25% occur during the summer.TheZebra.com takes a closer look at common summertime liability hazards, how liability coverage in your homeowners policy can help, and strategies for decreasing your susceptibility.Common Summer Liability Risks Around the HomeDecks, hot tubs, grills, playsets, and other backyard staples are synonymous with outdoor enjoyment during the warmer months, but they also increase the likelihood of someone getting hurt and you getting sued.“From an insurance perspective, you can be held responsible if someone is injured or a guest’s property is damaged on your property, even if it was an accident,” explains Beth Swanson, insurance analyst for The Zebra. “Outdoor spaces tend to come with a different kind of risk than indoor ones. You’ve got wet surfaces, open flames, uneven walkways, stairs, pets, play equipment, and all the little things that can turn into a bigger issue if someone gets injured. And the more people there are using your yard and outdoor areas, the more opportunities there are for something to go wrong.” TheZebra.com Pools and hot tubsJanet Ruiz, director of strategic communication for the Insurance Information Institute, cautions that hot tubs and pools are among your highest liability exposures “because drowning, slips and diving injuries can be severe and costly, especially when proper fencing, covers or supervision are lacking.”These are among the reasons why carriers prefer that you have safety measures in place, like fences, gates, or covers, which your municipality may also require.Trampolines and playsetsBackyard play structures, inflatables, and trampolines are other common contributors to serious injuries to kids, which is why many insurers consider them higher-risk features that could impact what they will cover.“Trampolines in particular cause a lot of injuries. Your policy may even exclude coverage on it, which you might not know until you need to file a claim,” says Stephen Wagner, a personal injury lawyer.Backyard parties and guest injuriesTruth is, when you host more human beings in your yard and home, there’s more opportunity for unintended harm, and when alcohol plays a part, impaired judgment and physical violence.“I’ve been involved in these types of cases where, for example, a guest slipped on a wet deck or got injured because of the negligent activities of another guest, and the homeowners had no idea that their insurance would not cover it,” says attorney Michael Kruse.Grills, fire pits, and outdoor entertainingFlames and extreme heat in close proximity to human beings can be a dangerous combination.“Fire pits and grills can lead to burns, fires, or property damage if used improperly, left unattended, or placed too close to structures or vegetation,” Ruiz adds.Dogs and other petsEven a friendly pooch can get overwhelmed by unfamiliar guests, noise, or children.“I’ve been encountering cases lately in which a dog that had never exhibited aggression before bit a guest at a backyard barbecue, and the owner had to confront a civil claim that their homeowners policy would not cover in full,” notes Kruse.How Home Liability Coverage HelpsBackyard leisure amenities like a pool, cold plunge tub, deck, playset, and outdoor kitchen are increasingly popular today among homeowners. But if you’re thinking about adding any of these features, it’s important to consider your liability exposure and review your homeowners insurance coverage.“Liability coverage in your policy can help protect against legal and medical costs if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property,” says Ruiz.Most policies include three forms of liability coverage:Personal liability, which can help with matters like legal costs, settlements, or judgments if you are sued.Medical payments, which help cover smaller guest injuries, no matter who’s at fault.Property damage, which comes in handy if you or someone in your household causes damage to someone else’s belongings.However, liability coverage isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.“Liability coverage varies by policy, limits, and insurer, and it may not automatically adjust as your lifestyle or property changes,” Ruiz points out. “Certain risks, higher-value assets or frequent entertaining often require higher limits or supplemental coverage to avoid gaps.”When It’s Time to Review Liability LimitsIt’s a good idea to look closely at your existing coverage before the summer season kicks off, especially if you’ve added something new, like a pool or plan to host more often.“Review your liability coverage any time your home or lifestyle changes in a way that could increase risk, and make sure your policy still matches the level of risk around your home,” advises Swanson.Many homeowners carry liability limits in the $100,000 to $300,000 range, but that may not be sufficient for your needs. If you frequently entertain or have higher-risk amenities like a pool, think about adding an umbrella policy, which can provide an extra layer of liability protection beyond your standard homeowners policy.Ways to Lower Summer Liability Risks at HomeIn addition to evaluating and upgrading your coverages, you can decrease liability risks around your property via these tips:Inspect stairs, decks, and patios for loose boards, nails, and any trip or fall hazards.Secure pool and hot tub areas with fencing, gates, alarms, and/or covers.Keep grills at least 10 feet from any structure and keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby.Secure your dog indoors or away from guests when hosting.Supervise guests and children closely.Ensure that outdoor lighting is sufficient and gates are secure.Have a first aid kit nearby.You want to enjoy entertaining friends and family, bask in the pleasant outdoor climate and relax in the comforts of your yard this summer, without having to worry about someone getting hurt or filing a lawsuit. So take the time to check and improve your homeowners policy while also following best practices for safety, making necessary fixes, and implementing safeguards that can decrease your vulnerability. Remember that a little extra planning, maintenance, and coverage awareness can go a long way.This story was produced by The Zebra and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cat rescued in Clinton structure fire A news release from the Clinton Fire Department said crews were called to the 2500 block of Garfield Street on May 16 at about 12:30 a.m. for a report of a structure fire. They responded with two engines, a ladder truck, a command vehicle, three ambulances and 14 firefighters. Fulton Fire was dispatched on automatic [...]
	The average first-time homebuyer is now 40 and counting The average first-time homebuyer is now 40 and countingBuying a house in the U.S. has become more difficult than ever. Recently, the average age for first-time homebuyers reached a historic high, fueled by a range of overlapping economic and social factors. And it’s highly unlikely that these metrics will return to normal anytime soon.These days, rather than entering a fraught housing market, many would-be homebuyers are choosing to rent indefinitely, creating new challenges for the housing market, as well as emerging opportunities for growth. In this environment, landlords stand to benefit most from this shift, provided they’re well-positioned to capitalize on the trend. Renters, on the other hand, face a different set of trade-offs.In this article, TurboTenant breaks down how modern homebuying has evolved, the reasons purchasing a home has become out of reach for so many Americans, and what both renters and landlords can expect as a result.First-time homebuyers are older than everThe average age of a first-time homebuyer has increased in recent years, but at the end of last year, this metric officially passed a crucial milestone. Per a November 2025 report from the National Association of Realtors, the average first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old, marking a historic high for the U.S. housing market.Considering that many Americans traditionally aim to purchase homes in their mid-to-late 20s as a key marker of adulthood, an average age of 40 represents a significant departure from those long-held expectations. For context, when researchers first conducted the survey in 1981, the median age for first-time homebuyers was 29.Several factors have contributed to this gradual shift over the decades, but the plain and simple truth is that fewer young Americans are purchasing homes today.What’s delaying buyers from entering the market?Several key trends have slowed home sales among first-time buyers and pushed their average age past 40. Here’s what to know:Home prices are outpacing income growthIt’s no secret that housing costs have soared in recent years, but there’s more than sticker shock contributing to the growing affordability gap. According to an October 2025 study from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, the national median price for a single-family home reached five times the median household income in 2024.In other words, Americans’ salaries aren’t growing as quickly as housing prices, a trend further compounded by a federal minimum wage that hasn’t increased since 2009. Put simply, the longer wages stagnate, the more difficult it becomes for workers to save for a down payment or comfortably afford a mortgage.Americans are taking on more debt than everDue to insufficient income driven by lagging wages and rising living costs, overall debt levels in the U.S. have continued to climb. An April 2026 report from the Bureau of Economic Analysisfound that the national debt now exceeds the value of the economy for the first time since World War II. Today, that debt totals $31.27 trillion against a $31.22 trillion GDP, a stark signal of mounting financial strain across the economy.Debt shows up at the individual level, too. Americans are now carrying more financial obligations than ever, including student loans, medical bills, and credit card balances. Regardless of the source, many Americans already carrying significant debt cannot take on yet another major loan to purchase a home.High interest rates are raising the barrier to entryHistorically high interest rates are compounding already elevated housing costs, posing a significant hurdle for potential homeowners. As noted in an April 2026 CNBC report, the Federal Open Market Committee voted to keep key interest rates at 3.5% to 3.75%. This is driving average mortgage rates to 6%-7%, according to a Bankrate study published in early May. In short, these daunting numbers deter first-time buyers from entering the market.Six to seven percent might not sound like much at first glance, but over the lifetime of a mortgage, a few percentage points can increase the total financial burden of a loan by hundreds of thousands of dollars. With rates like these, securing a mortgage to cover today’s elevated housing costs becomes prohibitively expensive for many buyers.People are starting families later than ever beforeTraditionally, Americans buy homes when they’re ready to start a family. However, people across the country and around the world are now waiting longer to have children. In several countries, the average age at which people have children has risen to 32, according to a 2024 report from the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis.Without the same urgency for extra bedrooms or a yard, many younger renters are choosing to delay homebuying. By continuing to rent, these potential buyers can build short-term savings and better position themselves to purchase a home that meets their long-term family needs and evolving lifestyle preferences.Long-term renting is becoming the new normalTo understand the rise of long-term renting, it helps to look back to the COVID-19 pandemic, when home values surged due to historically low interest rates. Six years later, prices have yet to meaningfully decline.What’s more, the elevated mortgage rates mentioned earlier appear to be sticking around. Unless the federal government makes significant changes, 6% to 7% interest on a home loan has effectively become the new baseline. Buyers who can’t afford an inflated mortgage have little choice but to wait for rates to come down.This challenge isn’t just about homebuying, either. Affording basic necessities has become increasingly difficult for the average American. Slow wage growth has only worsened the broader affordability crisis, making it even harder for workers to save for a down payment and break into an already competitive housing market.In short, the American dream of a stable job and a house, complete with a manageable mortgage and a white picket fence, now looks very different. For the foreseeable future, more and more Americans will continue to rent for decades, or even for life, rather than purchase their own homes.What this trend means for landlordsWhile the full ramifications of this housing evolution have yet to be seen, savvy landlords have likely already started to notice some of the following changes within their rental properties:More financially stable tenants: When purchasing a home was the norm for 30-somethings, nowadays, many tenants are more established in their careers. That reality translates to greater financial stability, more consistent rent payments, and a stronger sense of responsibility for the property.Tenancies run longer with fewer turnovers: While some tenants will always prefer shorter-term rental arrangements, many are choosing to stay in the same property for longer periods, avoiding the costs, uncertainty, and disruption that come along with frequent moves.Renters will prioritize comfort, space, and long-term livability: As tenants remain in one place over time, their expectations tend to shift towards more functional living arrangements. Many now prioritize comfort, larger living spaces, and homes that support long-term living with minimal maintenance concerns.Demand for high-quality rentals will continue to rise: Landlords will no longer be able to rely on renting out subpar rental units at premium prices. Instead, tenants will increasingly seek out higher-quality properties that offer a better standard of living without the financial burden of homeownership.Long-term tenants will prioritize hassle-free landlords: Renters who hold up their end of the lease don’t want to deal with landlords who are unresponsive or overly intrusive. As rental options expand, landlords should focus on fostering professional, respectful relationships that encourage desirable tenants to stick around longer.As American ideals around homeownership continue to evolve, so too will the concept of rental housing. Landlords need to stay aware of these shifts so they can effectively adapt to a changing market and meet ever-growing tenant expectations.The new route to homeownershipThe path to homeownership today looks very different from what it once was. As many lenders implement stricter standards for mortgage loans, the average first-time homebuyer will need to save a substantial sum to cover a down payment and stand out in an increasingly competitive market.Buyers, on the other hand, are taking a more cautious approach to the process. As housing costs continue to rise, wages stagnate, and mortgage rates remain stubbornly high, buying a home has shifted from an exciting milestone to a serious undertaking with significant long-term financial consequences.If you’re considering buying a house, it may be worth exploring alternatives such as co-buying with a partner or entering into a rent-to-own agreement. You can also consider house hacking, the practice of renting out part of your home, to help offset mortgage costs and ease your overall financial burden.Given the environment, landlords stand to benefit significantly from this shift in American housing trends. As renting becomes more prevalent and homebuying continues to slow, DIY landlords should streamline their operations with property management software to maximize profits and capitalize on current market conditions.This story was produced by TurboTenant and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	AI does amazing things, but it can’t fix payroll data fragmentation AI does amazing things, but it can’t fix payroll data fragmentationArtificial intelligence is quickly becoming the centerpiece of HR transformation strategies. From automated workflows to predictive analytics, organizations are making major investments in tools to speed up and streamline HR and payroll processes.But there’s a disconnect between where companies invest and where their biggest problems actually lie. And according to a recent Paylocity report, even something as foundational as payroll is a leaky faucet — and the issues begin in the disconnected systems and processes that feed into it.AI cannot fix what fragmented systems keep breaking.The Structure of Payroll Processing Is FlawedLong before paychecks are issued, time tracking, HR systems, and payroll platforms create issues because they often operate in silos. Data is passed between them manually or through integrations that introduce delays and inconsistencies. Small errors compound across systems, forcing HR and payroll teams into constant rework.Data from Paylocity’s State of Payroll Report backs it up:69% of organizations use two or more systems to manage payroll inputs.40% say manual processes are a primary source of payroll errors.Silos create flaws. The result is an operational model that depends on humans to fine-tune or fix the process so that everything functions. As companies grow, these systems start to break. Paylocity AI Magnifies the Foundation It’s GivenAI is often positioned as the perfect solution to inefficiency. That might sound great until teams start seeing that AI mirrors and amplifies whatever foundation it’s built on. AI solutions are only as perfect as the systems they use.If systems are unified and data is clean, AI works wonderfully to streamline workflows and flag anomalies. But with fragmented systems, the problem accelerates.The Paylocity State of Payroll Report shows that nearly half of HR teams spend five or more hours per payroll period fixing errors or reconciling data.Bringing AI automation into a mix of inconsistent data will only scale friction, not fix it. Errors move faster. Confidence drops. Teams end up double-checking automated outputs, which defeats the purpose. Time spent on fixing broken systems adds up to lower ROIs and moral issues if pay is not accurately given.Payroll Is Where the Cracks ShowPayroll sits downstream of the entire HR workflow — time tracking, onboarding, benefits, compliance. When something breaks upstream, payroll is where it shows up as missed pay, incorrect deductions or potentially serious compliance issues.More than one-third of organizations report payroll errors at least occasionally each year, according to Paylocity’s report.Payroll is an indicator and a system of truth for organizational breakdowns. It exposes where data can’t be trusted and where processes aren’t aligned. Yet many organizations still treat it as a back-office function instead of a strategic signal.Start Fixing Data FlowIf AI is going to deliver real value in HR, the focus must shift beyond simply adding it to the mix and toward understanding how data actually moves through systems. The Paylocity State of Payroll Report indicates that organizations with more unified systems report fewer errors, less manual work, and faster processing.The takeaway: Before adding AI, companies need to fix the data flow. That means reducing the number of disconnected systems, eliminating manual handoffs, and building a consistent source of truth across HR, time, and payroll.Only when that foundation is in place can AI become truly effective in processes like payroll, where seamless system connectivity is critical.This story was produced by Paylocity and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for May 18, 2026 East Moline officials are hosting a public meeting to discuss Empire Park's future, and the Senior Golf Tour is rolling out in Bettendorf starting at 10 a.m.
	Sandburg honors 2 alumni with awards Sandburg College has announced the winners of its 2026 alumni awards. Brittany Clark, a 2009 graduate, was chosen as the Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient and Victor Dantas, a 2018 graduate, received the Pacesetter Award. Clark and Dantas are also Sandburg’s nominees for the Illinois Community College Association’s (ICCTA) Distinguished Alumnus and Pacesetter awards. The ICCTA [...]
	The War on Sunscreen: How Misinformation May Be Undermining Cancer Prevention (Feature Impact) Despite its wide recognition as an effective tool for skin cancer prevention, many Americans still say they aren't sure how sunscreen works. In fact, confusion about its use and misinformation persist, especially on social media. According to a national survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of the nonprofit Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), 53% of the 2,000 adult respondents said they've seen claims that sunscreen ingredients may be harmful while 59% reported they're concerned about what's in sunscreen and 38% don't believe sunscreen is safe and effective. This sunscreen confusion highlights a central challenge in preventing skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Among the various types of skin cancer, 9 out of 10, including melanoma, are linked to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, according to the MRA. The survey found most Americans have a basic understanding of the risks of sun exposure, including the more than 8 in 10 who recognize spending long hours in the sun contributes to melanoma risk. However, roughly one-quarter said they rarely or never use sunscreen when outdoors. Reducing exposure to UV radiation lowers the risk of skin cancer, making sunscreen a key part of prevention, even during those everyday moments you may not immediately recognize as "risky," like a short walk through a parking lot or an hour sitting in the bleachers at a sporting event. To combat the confusion, it's important to first understand how sunscreen works. It absorbs or blocks UV radiation from reaching the skin, preventing DNA damage that can cause cancer. "Conflicting or incomplete information can make people less likely to wear sunscreen consistently," said Dr. Joan Levy, chief science officer at the MRA, "but the science on sun protection is clear, and sunscreen is one of the most effective tools to prevent melanoma." Active ingredients in sunscreen in the U.S. undergo rigorous review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which evaluates them as over-the-counter drugs - a standard which requires extensive testing and contributes to a more limited set of approved UV filters compared to Europe, where sunscreens are regulated as cosmetics. The FDA is evaluating additional methodologies for assessing sunscreen ingredients, a process that could, according to Levy, expand the number of approved UV filters available in the U.S. While melanoma remains the deadliest form of skin cancer, real progress is being made in melanoma research. Recent advances are improving outcomes for many patients with the disease, though approximately 50% of patients do not respond to current treatments, according to the MRA, underscoring why prevention and early detection are critical. "Treatments such as immunotherapy have significantly improved outcomes for many melanoma patients, but we should never need to treat what we could have prevented," Levy said. To learn more and find strategies to protect your skin, visit CureMelanoma.org. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	The 2026 SMB outlook: How business leaders are preparing for uncertainty The 2026 SMB outlook: How business leaders are preparing for uncertaintyRunning a small- or mid-sized business (SMB) in 2026 means making high-stakes decisions in a turbulent environment. Uncertainties around tariffs, shifting workforce dynamics, rapid AI advancement, and tight labor conditions have all collided into a macro climate that makes strategic clarity more important than ever. Business leaders navigating this environment best are building the capabilities, talent strategies, and operating models that let them move with confidence regardless of what is thrown their way.In Q1 2026, The Upwork Research Institute surveyed 750 U.S.-based business leaders across five major industries: business and professional services, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and consumer goods, and software and technology. From that broad sample, Upwork looked at how the 195 SMB leaders (leaders of businesses with 10-99 employees) surveyed are processing the challenges of today’s global market.What the data reveals is a group of leaders who are realistic about the challenges they face, confident in their ability to navigate them, and increasingly clear about where the real leverage points in their businesses lie. And talent is at the center of everything.Key takeawaysTalent, not the economy, is the defining challenge. The top three factors impacting SMB performance are all talent-related: skill gaps (45%), labor market tightness (34%), and workforce productivity decline (33%). Inflation and tariffs did not make the list.SMB leaders are confident, and flexible talent is part of why. 61% are very or extremely confident in their ability to navigate the current environment, with more than one in three citing freelancers and alternative talent models as an active driver of that confidence.Freelancer hiring is outpacing full-time hiring. 71% of SMBs plan to increase freelancer hiring in the next three months, compared to 64% planning to increase their FTE workforce, a gap that has been widening since late 2025.AI investment is accelerating fast. 78% of SMB leaders plan to increase AI technology spending in the next year, with 38% doing so significantly, and SMBs lead all company sizes in fully integrating AI-first process design.How SMB leaders are reading the macro-environmentOverall, Upwork data suggests that business leaders across industries and company sizes are closely divided in their view of the macroeconomic environment. In particular, the cohort of SMB leaders in this study held a more cautious view than other business leaders. Yet the predominant view was one of optimism.50% of SMB leaders describe the macro-environment as favorable; 43% say it is challenging.The top three pressures are all talent-related, not economic.Skill gaps in available talent rank as the primary concern, cited by 45% of SMB leaders.When Upwork asked SMB leaders how they would describe the current macro-environment, the answers split almost evenly down the middle. 43% describe conditions as challenging, while 50% describe them as favorable. For comparison, across all 750 survey respondents, 40% described the environment as challenging and 54% as favorable. On the whole, SMB leaders are slightly more cautious in their view of the environment than are their peers, but the dominant sentiment is still one of opportunity rather than crisis.That cautious-but-grounded orientation makes sense when you look at what SMBs face on a day-to-day basis. Upwork asked leaders to name the top factors impacting their organization this quarter and found that the biggest concern is neither inflation, nor tariffs, nor geopolitical tensions. The biggest concern is finding and hiring the right talent at the right time.The top three pressures facing SMBs right nowSMB leaders cited three factors that most impacted their day-to-day operations:Skill gaps in available talent. Cited by 45% as a top-three concern.Labor market tightness. Cited by 34%.Workforce productivity decline. Cited by 33%.The pattern is consistent across the broader respondent base, where skill gaps top the list at 43%, followed by workforce productivity decline at 31% and labor market tightness at 29%. Across all company sizes, the biggest impediment to performing well this quarter is finding, keeping, and making the most of the right people.This is an important distinction for SMB leaders to sit with. While macroeconomic forces are real and present, the data suggests that the organizations with the most room to grow are not those that predict tariff policy or interest rate movements. The organizations with the most room to grow are solving for talent: who gets it, who develops it, and who knows how to access it flexibly when the moment demands.Where confidence comes from in a challenging environmentWhile overall the survey suggests that business leaders in the U.S. are confident in their ability to meet today’s challenges, SMB leaders in particular were somewhat more reserved.61% of SMB leaders are very or extremely confident in their organization's ability to navigate the macro-environment.Technology access is the #1 confidence driver, cited by 50%.Freelancers and alternative talent models rank as a top-three confidence driver for SMBs.Even with their split outlook on macro conditions, SMB leaders are confident in their organizations' ability to navigate those challenges. Among companies with 10 to 99 employees, 61% of leaders say they are very or extremely confident in their ability to handle the current environment. Across all 750 respondents, that figure rises to 69%, showing again that, while SMBs are on the whole slightly more cautious than the broader market, the cohort overall is still optimistic.What is driving that confidence? The survey data offers a clear answer, and it has real implications for how SMBs should think about their strategies going forward.The three biggest confidence drivers for SMBsAmong companies with 10 to 99 employees, there were three main drivers of leadership confidence:Access to the right technology and tools. Cited by 50%.Clear leadership vision and strategy. Cited by 45%.Leveraging alternative talent models like freelancers. Cited by 37%.The fact that access to technology tops the list is perhaps predictable, given the pace of AI adoption across the business landscape. But the third driver, alternative talent models, stands out. More than one in three SMB leaders say their ability to leverage freelancers and flexible talent is actively contributing to their confidence in a turbulent macro-environment.The ability to flex your workforce up or down, and to bring in exactly the expertise you need for exactly as long as you need it, is a source of strategic confidence. Upwork data suggests that building this capacity into their business model helps leaders of SMBs feel more in control.Top strategic priorities for Q2 2026SMB leaders say talent acquisition and retention is their single top strategic priority for Q2, leading by a wide margin at 32%. Talent skilling and development comes in second at 16%, and innovation and technology adoption rounds out the top three at 15%.Put those numbers together and you see nearly half of all SMB leaders say their top strategic priority for the next quarter is some dimension of talent strategy. Upwork This is consistent with commonly reported pain points. If skill gaps and labor market tightness are the biggest factors impacting performance, then the organizations that solve the talent equation will separate from those that cannot. The strategic priorities data suggests SMB leaders know this and are planning their quarters around this.Where SMBs are investingHow business leaders plan to invest is a key indicator of where they feel the market is moving. And Upwork data showcases the market’s move toward AI and increasing concerns over cybersecurity.78% of SMB leaders plan to increase spending on AI technologies.78% also plan to increase AI adoption initiative spending.70% plan to increase spending on cybersecurity.Perhaps the most striking findings from this survey are that the majority of business leaders in every category examined anticipate funding increases in AI and cybersecurity. Across the cohort of 750 business leaders, 79% plan to increase AI technology spending and 78% plan to increase AI adoption investment. The message is consistent that AI is where the money is going, with more than 1 in 3 SMB leaders planning a significant ramp in AI technology spend.Where SMBs have an advantage: AI-first design and a culture of experimentationSMBs are gaining a competitive advantage by building processes from the ground up with AI and alternative staffing in mind.SMBs lead all company sizes in fully integrating AI-first process design (19%) and embedding experimentation as a core capability (19%).Integrating freelancers ranks second among transformation initiatives SMBs have fully completed.The most forward-looking SMBs treat freelance talent and AI capability as one integrated operating model, not two separate factors.One of the more notable findings in this survey is that SMBs are outpacing their counterparts in two areas of organizational innovation that could be decisive as AI reshapes the competitive landscape.When asked about their current progress on a range of transformation initiatives, companies with 10 to 99 employees lead the field in specific areas.Flexible work arrangements. 24% fully integrated.Integrating freelancers into operations. 19% fully integrated.AI-first process design. 19% fully integrated.Making experimentation and innovation a core capability. 19% fully integrated.Transforming the operating model for AI. 17% fully integrated.AI in back-office roles. 17% fully integrated.First, 19% report having fully integrated AI-first process design, compared to 17% across all respondents. Second, 19% report having fully made experimentation and innovation a core organizational capability, a figure that does not appear among the top rankings of the overall survey data.The fact that integrating freelancers is tied at the second-tier spot in this list, alongside AI-first process design, tells you something important. For the most forward-looking SMBs, freelance talent and AI capability are not separate factors but rather integrated pieces of a modern operating model.This matters because the gap between AI adoption and AI value is increasingly about organizational design, not just tool selection. Companies that build AI-first processes from the ground up, rather than layering AI onto legacy workflows, tend to see more productivity and efficiency gains. And companies that treat experimentation as a core capability are better positioned to iterate quickly as the technology develops.Hiring plans: Freelance hiring is on the riseDespite a challenging macro-environment, the hiring intentions data tells a story of growth across SMBs. The vast majority of business leaders plan to increase headcount in the next three months, with a visible shift in how that growth is being structured.66% of SMBs plan to increase full-time hiring in the next three months, while just 3% plan to reduce.71% plan to increase freelancer hiring, outpacing full-time employee (FTE) intentions by five points.Full-time hiring outlook is positiveAmong companies with 10 to 99 employees, 66% plan to increase their full-time employee hiring in the three months following the survey, with 11% planning to do so significantly. That is a notably optimistic posture from a group that is roughly split between rating the macro-environment as challenging and favorable.The picture is consistent across the broader sample, where 66% of all respondents plan to increase FTE hiring. For a labor market that has shown signs of broader softness, these figures reflect a commitment to building teams. Upwork Freelancer hiring outlook is even strongerThe intention of business leaders to hire freelancers is outpacing FTE hiring intentions across all company sizes by a substantial margin. Among companies with 10 to 99 employees, 71% plan to increase their freelancer hiring over the next three months, compared to 66% planning to increase FTE hiring. Across all respondents, 70% plan to increase freelancer hiring.This continues a trend that The Upwork Research Institute began tracking in late 2025, as the intention to hire freelancers is now consistently higher than the intention to hire FTEs. Given the macro pressures around talent acquisition costs, benefits, and fixed compensation, the value of hiring flexible talent that can be engaged on a project or part-time basis is clear.For SMB leaders, the question is no longer whether to use freelancers, but how to build the systems, processes, and relationships that make flexible talent a strategic and competitive asset rather than a reactive gap-filler.What this means for SMB leaders right nowReading the Q1 2026 data as a whole shows a coherent picture of the modern SMB competitive market. The external environment is uncertain, but it is not paralyzing. SMB leaders are confident, strategic, and increasingly clear about where the real work needs to happen.A few things to keep front of mind as you plan for the quarters ahead:Talent is the throughline. Talent is the top strategic priority, the most commonly cited operational challenge, a primary driver of funding decisions, and a meaningful source of leadership confidence when managed well. The SMBs building real advantage right now are treating talent strategy as a core business capability.The workforce model is evolving. The most forward-looking SMBs are building integrated models: stable core teams anchored by full-time employees, surrounded by networks of specialist freelancers engaged for work that requires depth, speed, or technical expertise that is hard to hire for permanently. It scales with demand and keeps fixed costs contained.AI investment is nearly mandatory. With 78% of peer SMB leaders planning to increase AI technology spending (and more than 1 in 3 doing so significantly), this is not a moment for caution-driven delay. The organizations using the first half of 2026 to build genuine AI capability are the ones most likely to carry a structural advantage as the year progresses.What this survey makes clear is that the variables separating the leaders from the followers are not resources or market position. They are the quality and clarity of the decisions being made right now.‍Methodology: Data cited in this article is sourced from the Upwork Research Institute Q1 2026 Business Leader Landscape survey. The survey included 750 U.S.-based business leaders at the director level and above, spanning business and professional services, healthcare and medical, manufacturing, retail and consumer goods, and software and technology. The survey was conducted in Q1 2026 and updated on March 27, 2026. Unless otherwise noted, SMB figures reference organizations with 10 to 99 employees (n=195). Broader comparisons reference the full sample (n=750) or the 10-to-249 employee cohort (n=400), where noted.This story was produced by Upwork and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	REVIEW: Master Class at The Black Box Theatre Opera diva Maria Callas once said: “I will always be as difficult as necessary to achieve the best.” That quote perfectly encapsulates The Black Box Theatre’s current production of Terence McNally’s 1996 Tony Award winning play Master Class expertly directed by Ron May. This show is extra special in that it is a collaboration with Opera Quad Cities so you will get a healthy, but not overwhelming, dose of skyrocketing arias to accompany the phenomenal acting.
	Can you insure a lab-grown diamond? Can you insure a lab-grown diamond?Laboratory-grown diamonds have become more popular in the last few years, especially among younger people, for engagement rings as well as for women making purchases for themselves. Their reasons for buying lab-grown diamonds are straightforward: Lab-grown diamonds are generally 70% to 80% less expensive than natural or Earth-mined diamonds, and their quality can match that of natural diamonds. As a result, consumers can get a larger lab diamond of the same quality for the same price they would pay for a natural diamond. (You can see how much bigger it is using an engagement ring cost calculator.)BriteCo explains how insurance works for lab-grown diamonds and what coverage options to consider.What are lab-grown diamonds?Lab-grown diamonds, sometimes referred to as synthetic diamonds, are diamonds that are grown in laboratories both in the United States and across the globe. Lab-grown diamonds have been around for more than 70 years, using a technique that mimics the Earth’s process of heat and pressure on carbon to crystallize a diamond. While the first lab-created diamonds were not of high quality, about 10 years ago, the technology improved to a point where we now have gem-quality lab-grown diamonds readily available to the public.How are lab-grown diamonds different from an Earth-mined diamond?A lab-grown diamond is physically, chemically, and optically the same as a mined diamond, with some slight differences. The biggest difference? Natural mined diamonds are between 2 and 3 billion years old. They were formed over a hundred miles below the Earth’s surface with extreme heat and under immense pressure. They are mined from deposits that were thrust up closer to the Earth’s surface through volcanic activity over millions of years. In contrast, a lab-created diamond can be made in a laboratory in only a few weeks.Should I get insurance for lab-grown diamonds?Yes. Any time you spend your hard-earned money on a luxury piece of jewelry, you should make sure it’s protected with jewelry insurance. With the average lab-grown diamond ring costing from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on carat size, you have a couple of options.You can add a rider or ”floater” to an existing homeowners policy that will cover the replacement cost of your lab-grown diamond ring, necklace, or bracelet. You need to add a rider at additional cost because most homeowners policies will only cover a limited amount (about $1,000 to $2,000) under personal possessions coverage. Your rider will probably be subject to a deductible as well if you want to keep costs down.Also, if you make a jewelry claim through a homeowners standard policy or with a rider or floater, it may impact your future premium costs for homeowners insurance. This is because jewelry claims are usually reported to loss-history data services used by insurance companies to assess your risk and set premium costs.Or, you can choose to get a specialty jewelry insurance policy from a provider that specializes in just jewelry insurance. While coverage varies among specialty jewelry insurance providers, you can get a jewelry policy quote online in minutes. Compare coverage costs, deductibles, flexible payment options, and preventive maintenance. Be sure to ask if the jewelry insurance provider reports claims to loss-history data services such as CLUE or A-PLUS, so you don’t have to worry that a claim might impact your other insurance.How much does insurance for lab-grown diamonds cost?On average, jewelry insurance costs between 0.5% and 3% of a jewelry item’s appraised value to insurance every year, depending on your location. For example, insuring a $5,000 lab-grown diamond would cost about $5.00 to $10.00 per month. It’s best to obtain an appraisal for your ring or bracelet that specifies it contains lab-grown diamonds when getting it insured.This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What is an estate cash advance, and who qualifies? What is an estate cash advance, and who qualifies?Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of waiting months or even years to receive the inheritance they left you. Yet, that’s exactly what can happen during probate, which can often take up to 18 months or even longer. During this time, heirs can be left with their bills piling up while the money meant to help is locked away in court proceedings.If you’re facing this situation, you’re not alone. Many heirs find themselves needing access to their inheritance right away, not months down the road. Fortunately, there’s a solution called an estate cash advance that can help. To help you understand how estate cash advances work, this guide by Inheritance Funding will teach you what they are, who qualifies and whether this option might be right for you.What Is an Estate Cash Advance?An estate cash advance is a financial product that allows you to receive a portion of your expected inheritance immediately, rather than waiting for probate to conclude. Also called an inheritance advance or probate advance, it allows a company to purchase a portion of your forthcoming inheritance for a flat fee, giving you access to cash right away.Is an Estate Cash Advance a Loan?No, an estate cash advance is not a loan, although many people do see it as an inheritance loan. With a traditional loan, you’d need to make monthly payments, undergo credit checks and risk damage to your credit score if you couldn’t repay. You may also have to pay interest charges that increase the total amount you repay.An estate cash advance works differently. You receive money up front based on your expected inheritance, and the advance company is repaid directly from your share of the estate when probate closes.Do You Have to Repay an Estate Cash Advance?If your inheritance is large enough to repay the estate cash advance, then the provider will be repaid once your inheritance passes probate.However, one of the most significant features of an estate cash advance is that it’s nonrecourse. This means you have no personal obligation to repay the advance if something goes wrong. If the estate doesn’t have enough money to cover the advance when it finally closes, the cash advance company absorbs the loss, and you won’t owe them anything. This is different from a loan, where you’d be personally responsible for repayment regardless of what happens with the estate.Why Are Estate Cash Advances Necessary?Estate cash advances are usually chosen when the inheritance is tied up in probate. Often complex and lengthy, probate is a court-supervised process that confirms the authenticity of an individual’s will after their death, distributes their assets to the rightful heirs and settles their debts. This process regularly takes a year or more, depending on the size of the estate, the number of heirs and whether any disputes arise.During probate, the estate’s assets are essentially frozen. Even if you know you’re entitled to a specific inheritance amount, you usually can’t access that money until the court completes its work.That’s where an estate cash advance comes in. The advance bridges the gap between when you need the money and when the legal system releases it.How Does the Estate Cash Advance Process Work?Understanding how an estate cash advance works can help you feel more confident about whether it’s the right choice for your situation. The process is designed to be straightforward and fast, since most reputable providers have streamlined their systems to get you the cash you need as soon as that same day. Inheritance Funding 1. Consultation and ApplicationThe first step is reaching out to an estate cash advance provider for a free consultation. This is a no-obligation conversation where you’ll share basic information about your inheritance and how much cash you’d like to receive right away. The provider will ask questions about the estate, your relationship to the deceased and the estimated value of your inheritance.This initial consultation helps the company determine whether they can help you and gives you a chance to ask questions. There’s no cost for this step, and you’re not committing to anything by starting the conversation. It’s just an opportunity to see if an advance is possible in your situation.2. Documentation and Estate VerificationOnce you’ve decided to move forward, the advance company will need to verify the details of your inheritance. This typically involves collecting a few key documents, such as the:WillDeath certificateCourt documents showing your status as an heirInformation about the estate’s assetsYou probably won’t need to track down everything yourself, as most companies handle the verification process on your behalf. They’ll contact the probate court, the estate attorney and the personal representative to confirm the details and ensure everything is in order.3. Approval and Receiving Your CashAfter the company verifies your inheritance, they’ll approve your advance and send you the money. Many providers can fund your advance within hours of approval, though the exact timeline depends on the specifics of your case.The money is yours to use however you need. Whether you’re covering medical bills, catching up on mortgage payments, handling funeral expenses or simply managing day-to-day costs while you wait for the estate to close, you have complete flexibility in how you spend it.4. Repayment From the EstateWhen the estate finally closes and is ready to distribute assets, the advance company is paid directly from your share of the inheritance. You receive the remainder of your inheritance after the company takes what they’re owed.If the estate takes longer than expected to close, that’s not your problem, and your fee won’t increase beyond the amount you were originally quoted. The advance company simply waits until the estate is ready to distribute funds. If something unexpected happens and the estate doesn’t have enough money to repay the advance, you’re protected by the nonrecourse nature of the agreement.Who Qualifies for an Estate Cash Advance?Not every heir will qualify for an estate cash advance, but many do. Understanding who is eligible for an estate cash advance can help you determine whether this option makes sense for your situation. These are the main factors that companies consider when evaluating your application: Inheritance Funding General Eligibility Requirements for an HeirTo qualify for an estate cash advance, you generally need to meet a few basic criteria. First, you must be a confirmed heir who is legally entitled to receive a portion of the estate through the will or state inheritance laws. Often, your inheritance must also exceed the provider’s minimum limit, which is usually $15,000-$20,000.Your income and employment status don’t affect whether you qualify, which is another reason why many people choose an estate cash advance over a loan. Estate cash advance providers base their decision on the value of your expected inheritance, not on your personal financial situation.What Types of Inheritances Qualify?Estate cash advances typically apply to inheritances that are going through probate. If you’re expecting to inherit cash, real estate, investments or other assets from an estate that’s currently in the probate process, you may be eligible for an advance.However, not all inheritances go through probate. Some assets pass directly to beneficiaries outside of the probate process, including:Life insurance policies with named beneficiariesRetirement accounts with designated beneficiariesAssets held in certain types of trustsIf your inheritance falls into one of these categories, it may not qualify for an advance since it’s not subject to the probate delays that advances are designed to address.The type of asset you’re inheriting also matters. Cash inheritances are the most straightforward, but you can also receive advances on expected proceeds from real estate sales or other estate assets. The advance company will evaluate the estate’s assets to determine how much they’re willing to advance based on what you’re likely to receive.Factors That Can Affect Your EligibilityWhile many heirs qualify for estate cash advances, certain factors can complicate the process or disqualify you altogether:Estate disputes: Active litigation over the will or disagreements among heirs can be red flags for advance companies.Significant estate debt: If the estate owes more than it’s worth or has substantial creditor claims, there may not be enough money left over for an advance.Stage of probate: Some companies prefer estates that are well into the probate process to reduce uncertainty about final distribution.Providers need to be confident that the estate will have sufficient funds to repay them when probate closes.Is an Inheritance Advance the Right Choice for You?An estate cash advance can be a lifeline when you need money fast, but it’s not the perfect solution for everyone. Like any financial decision, it comes with both benefits and trade-offs.The Advantages of an Inheritance AdvanceEstate cash advances offer several key benefits:Speed: Get the money you need right away, providing immediate relief during difficult times.No credit checks: The advance is based solely on your expected inheritance, not your current financial standing or credit score.No monthly payments: The advance is repaid directly from the estate when probate closes, so you don’t need to budget for repayment.Simplicity: Once you receive your advance, your responsibilities are finished. Your provider will work directly with the court and estate, with nothing required of you.Nonrecourse protection: If the estate doesn’t have enough money to cover the advance, you’re not personally liable for the shortfall.The Potential Drawbacks of an Inheritance AdvanceThe main downside of an estate cash advance is the cost. Advance companies charge a flat fee for their service, which reduces the total amount of inheritance you’ll receive once probate closes. This fee compensates the company for taking on the risk of waiting months or years to be repaid and for absorbing the loss if the estate can’t pay them back.However, it’s important to compare the cost of the fee to your alternatives. This fee is a one-time charge, with no compounding interest like you’d see with a credit card or personal loan, meaning your maximum fee will be fixed.You should also weigh the flat fee against the potential consequences of not having the money you need right away. Foreclosure, mounting credit card debt or missed opportunities to address urgent expenses can all lead to higher costs than the fee you’d pay on the estate cash advance.To ensure you know exactly how much your fee will be, reputable providers will clearly explain their fee structure up front with zero hidden fees and complete transparency. If a company isn’t clear about pricing or seems to be hiding costs in fine print, that’s a sign to look elsewhere.Another consideration is that you’re reducing your total inheritance. The money you receive today comes out of what you’d eventually receive from the estate, plus the fee. If your inheritance is your primary financial safety net for the future, carefully consider whether you truly need the advance now or if you can afford to wait.Why More Heirs Are Seeking AdvancesThe so-called “Great Wealth Transfer” is well underway, where younger generations will inherit an estimated $68 trillion to $84 trillion by 2045, representing the largest intergenerational transfer of wealth in history. As baby boomers age and pass away, millions of Americans who’ve never received an inheritance before are suddenly finding themselves as heirs to estates that need to go through probate.At the same time, the rising cost of living is squeezing household budgets tighter than ever. Housing costs, health care expenses and everyday necessities have all increased dramatically in recent years, leaving many people living paycheck to paycheck. When an unexpected expense arises, such as the funeral costs when a loved one passes away suddenly, waiting 18 months for an inheritance to come through simply isn’t realistic.This combination of factors means that more beneficiaries are turning to estate cash advances as a practical solution. Rather than struggle financially while their inheritance sits frozen in probate, they’re choosing to access a portion of that money immediately and use it to address pressing needs. For many heirs, an advance isn’t just convenient, but also necessary to maintain financial stability during a challenging time.How to Choose a Trusted Provider for Your Estate Cash AdvanceIf you’ve decided that an estate cash advance is right for you, the next step is choosing a provider. Not all companies offer the same advance terms or service, and the provider you select can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s what to look for when evaluating your options:Experience: Look for companies that have been in business for years, with a proven track record of advancing millions of dollars to thousands of customers.Ratings and reviews: Check platforms like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau and Google Reviews to see what past clients have to say.Transparent pricing: A trustworthy estate cash advance provider will clearly explain their fee structure up front with no hidden costs or surprise charges.Customer service: The best companies treat you as a partner, taking time to answer your questions and explain the process in easily understood terms.Pay attention to both overall ratings and the details in individual reviews. See what customers say about each provider’s responsiveness, professionalism and ability to deal with any issues that arise. A high rating from hundreds of verified customers is a strong indicator of reliability.Finally, look for providers who prioritize customer service. You deserve to work with a company that treats you with respect and empathy, especially during what’s already a stressful time in your life.A Safe Way to Access Your Cash Estate in AdvanceWaiting for probate to run its course is a reality for most heirs, but it doesn’t have to mean putting your life on hold. An estate cash advance offers a safe and practical way to access a portion of your inheritance right away, giving you the financial flexibility to cover urgent expenses without the burden of traditional loans or monthly payments.If you’re considering an estate cash advance, take time to research providers carefully. Look for companies with a proven track record, transparent pricing and strong client reviews. A trustworthy and respectable provider will walk you through the process, help you understand your eligibility and determine whether an advance is the right choice for your situation. Your inheritance is on its way, but an advance can help you use it when you need it most.This story was produced by Inheritance Funding and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cambridge man sentenced to federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor A man from Cambridge was sentenced to 125 months (over 10 years) in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor, according to a news release from the Department of Justice. Public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing showed that Christopher L. Rutherford, 55, exchanged messages about meeting to engage in sex acts with [...]
	Gen Z’s financial independence struggle Gen Z’s financial independence struggleFinancial independence has long been treated as an early marker of adulthood. Get a job, get a place, and get a handle on your money. Yet, today, that transition is proving harder than it looks on paper.A new study from Intuit Credit Karma finds that despite many young Americans (aged 18-24) receiving financial help from family, more than half (51%) say they’re sacrificing too much just to get by. This underscores how economic realities and financial knowledge gaps are reshaping what financial independence looks like today.Key takeaways: How young adults are navigating money todayMore than half of Americans aged 18-24 (51%) are still receiving financial support from parents or relatives, with living at home (49%) and receiving money when needed (46%) being the most common forms of support.Even with family support, 61% of young adults say they still have to make significant financial compromises, whether that means struggling to cover unexpected expenses or making deliberate trade-offs to afford lifestyle experiences.Nearly a third (31%) of young adults don’t feel prepared to manage their personal finances, with saving for long-term goals, investing, and understanding interest rates among the biggest knowledge gaps.More than half (56%) take on gig work or side jobs to afford nonessential spending, reflecting the financial trade-offs young adults are making to sustain their lifestyles.Why young Americans rely on their parents for financial supportHalf of young adults (51%) are currently receiving some form of financial support from parents or relatives. The most common types of support include living at home with parents/relatives or in a family-owned property (49%), receiving money when needed (46%), having health insurance or medical expenses covered (38%), and having parents or relatives pay some or all of monthly bills like cell phone, gas, food, or utilities (36%).It’s not a single safety net, but several layered on top of each other.The reasons behind the support vary, with some reflecting financial needs, while others come from supportive family dynamics.Four in 10 (40%) say they are unable to fully support themselves financially, while another 40% say their family wants them to focus on school or career development. Other reasons include:38% are financially able and willing to help.34% want to help them save money for the future.28% want to help them manage the high cost of living.18% are concerned about the job market for people their age.17% say it’s culturally or personally expected in their family.14% say they supported their sibling(s) so they feel an obligation.14% want to help them pay off student loans.Notably, most young adults who receive support don’t have a firm timeline for financial independence. Only 12% say there is a clear timeline, while 46% say there are expectations but no fixed deadline, and 17% say the support is open ended.The parents providing financial support largely seem to understand the economic reality their kids are facing:62% of young adults say their parents/relatives think it’s harder for people their age to become financially independent today.53% say their parents/relatives believe their generation is at a financial disadvantage compared to previous generations.54% say their parents/relatives believe helping them financially is necessary given today’s economic conditions.Support doesn’t mean stability Even with family support in the picture, financial compromise doesn’t disappear. Among young adults who receive support, 61% say they still have to make significant compromises.Some of this is driven by financial strain. Across young adults overall, 44% say their financial compromises have left them unprepared to cover an unexpected expense like a car repair or medical bill.In other cases, it’s a deliberate trade-off: 40% of young adults who live at home with parents/relatives say they do so specifically to free up money for lifestyle experiences like dining out, travel, and attending festivals.Nearly half (47%) of young adults say they are making financial compromises to enjoy life now over long-term financial security.In fact, 36% are actively avoiding or delaying paying down debt to fund lifestyle experiences, and roughly one-third (34%) are taking on credit card debt to do so.To fund nonessential spending without going further into the red, more than half (56%) say they take on gig work or side jobs to afford nonessential spending.Young adults are making active—sometimes costly—choices about how to live within constraints that feel increasingly tight, whether driven by the economy, their own financial habits, or both.Young adults face real gaps in financial literacy Nearly a third of young adults (31%) say they don’t feel prepared to manage their personal finances, and the gaps they identify are fundamental:48% feel least equipped to save for long-term goals (e.g., home, major purchases).42% don’t understand how to invest or grow their money.41% don’t understand interest rates and fees on credit cards or loans.36% feel unprepared to manage bills and recurring payments.34% feel unprepared to manage day-to-day cash flow (having enough money between paychecks).28% feel unprepared to manage or pay down debt.For many, the response is avoidance. More than half (53%) of young adults say they avoid thinking about or managing their finances because it feels overwhelming.That avoidance has real consequences:22% say they could cover essential expenses for less than a month if they lost their main income source.Roughly 1 in 7 (15%) say they currently cannot afford essential expenses at all.Learning the hard way Financial vulnerability is shaped by the economy as well as gaps in knowledge and action.More than 4 in 10 (43%) say they’ve made financial decisions without fully understanding the implications, and nearly half (48%) say they know what they should be doing but don’t take action.Those gaps have a way of making themselves known eventually. Nearly half (47%) said their biggest financial wake-up call was realizing how expensive everyday essentials are.Other wake-up calls include:41% tried to save and realized how difficult it is.34% had to pay rent or bills on their own.30% faced an unexpected expense like a medical bill or car repair.21% watched subscriptions and recurring charges add up.19% got into credit card debt and experienced interest charges.19% realized they didn’t have a credit score or credit history.14% were denied a credit card or loan.Those lessons often come with real financial costs. Nearly half (46%) say their lack of financial knowledge has already cost them money in fees, interest, or missed opportunities.The paycheck reality check For many young adults, a first paycheck is a major financial wake-up call. While an offer letter may show an annual salary, it’s not what lands in your bank account after taxes and deductions.That gap between expected and actual take-home pay has more than one in five (22%) young adults saying their biggest financial wake-up call was seeing how much taxes reduced their paycheck—and it’s not hard to see why.Only 26% say they clearly understand how much they’ll take home after taxes. In fact, 1 in 5 (20%) don’t currently have a job.Feeling the squeeze Whether driven by economic pressure, lifestyle choices, or limited financial knowledge, young adults are feeling the strain.Roughly half (51%) say they feel like they are sacrificing too much financially just to get by.“Young adults today are navigating a financial landscape that is in many ways more complicated than it was for previous generations,” said Courtney Alev, consumer financial advocate at Intuit Credit Karma. “But what stands out is that the barriers aren’t just economic. Sometimes the barrier is a genuine knowledge gap, such as not knowing how taxes affect your paycheck, how interest compounds, or how to start investing. Other times, it’s a conscious choice to live in the moment over planning for the future. If you’re in either camp, the most important thing you can do is start somewhere. Get clear on your actual take-home pay, build a budget around your real life, and don’t let the overwhelm keep you from engaging with your finances. Awareness is the first step, whether that means building knowledge or turning what you already know into action.”Methodology: This survey was conducted online within the United States by Qualtrics on behalf of Intuit Credit Karma from March 31, 2026, to April 2, 2026, among 1,011 adults aged 18-24.This story was produced by Credit Karma and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Special event insurance for summer markets and holiday pop-ups Special event insurance for summer markets and holiday pop-upsIf you’re a vendor at farmers markets, summer street fairs, or holiday pop-up events, you may need business insurance to meet requirements and help protect against common business risks. It could be tempting to just buy one-day event insurance, but many sellers don’t realize that their risk doesn’t stop when the event ends. A product you sold could lead to a claim days, weeks, or even months later. And if you plan to do more than one event during the year, the applications and paperwork to get new insurance each time could burden your burgeoning business. What’s more beneficial to your steady growth? Quality liability coverage to help shield your business that’s ready whenever a sales opportunity presents.Below, ERGO NEXT outlines common insurance considerations for vendors participating in markets, festivals, and pop-up events.Is event insurance usually required?In many cases, yes. If you sell at farmers markets, festivals, or pop-up events, organizers or the venue may require you to carry business insurance.Here are a few real examples of vendor insurance requirements:Emerald City Comic Con (Washington): General liability with $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate limit of liability, plus additional requirements like commercial auto insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Vendors must also list multiple parties as additional insureds.La Grange farmers market (Illinois): General liability insurance coverage with minimum limits of around $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate.Smorgasburg L.A. (California): $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate in general liability, plus $500,000 per accident for workers’ compensation.Art Festival (various locations): $1 million liability policy for vendors selling food or products applied to skin.Coverage requirements often vary depending on the event’s size, location, and type, so it’s always a good idea to review vendor guidelines before applying.Even when it’s not required, having coverage can help protect your business from some of the more common risks that come with selling in public spaces.Why do 1-day events often require business insurance?Event organizers are responsible for the safety of the space, including vendors, customers, and property. To help manage that risk, they’ll often ask vendors to show proof of insurance so that they’re not taking on all the business risks involved with the event.This usually means providing a certificate of insurance (COI) that confirms you have an active insurance policy.You may also be asked to:List the event organizer or venue as an additional insured.Carry a minimum amount of liability coverage (often $1 million per occurrence).Submit proof of coverage before the event.If you can’t provide this, you may not be able to participate.Why special event insurance may not be enoughIf you’re at farmers markets, craft fairs, or retail pop-ups throughout the year, your risk doesn’t stop when the event ends.For example, a product you sold at the event could lead to a claim days or even weeks later. Or if someone sees your products or art at the event and then buys from you later, a one-day event policy won’t protect your business then, either. If you only have short-term coverage, it may not extend to a claim that comes in after the event. The cost of medical bills, property damage, and legal fees would be your personal responsibility.Some vendors try to save on costs with just a one-day policy or short-term coverage to meet a single event requirement. But if you’re doing multiple events and do sales between events, an annual policy could help better protect your business and save you the time of applying for and acquiring new coverage each time.Affordable, annual business insurance coverage can make it easier for your business to:Benefit from claims against your business for product liability.Meet state, city, or county requirements for business insurance coverage.Apply to events without starting from scratch.Share certificates of insurance quickly.Stay protected as your business grows.If attending events is a regular part of your business, ongoing coverage may be a more practical way to manage your business risk.What types of event insurance do vendors need most?If you sell at fairs, summer festivals, or the occasional trade show, you may need more than one type of coverage. It depends on what you sell and what the event and the venue require.Here are some of the most common types of insurance for vendors at events:1. General liability insuranceThis is usually the starting point. General liability insurance could help cover event mishaps like:Someone getting hurt at your booth.Accidental damage to the venue or another vendor’s setup.Legal costs if a claim is filed against your business.It’s also the type of liability coverage most event organizers will ask for.2. Product liability insuranceIf you sell physical products — especially food, skincare, candles, or handmade goods — product liability insurance coverage matters.It could help to protect you if a product you sell:Causes illness or injury.Damages someone’s property.Leads to a safety-related complaint or claim.Say you sell handmade soaps at a neighborhood night market. A customer buys one, uses it, and claims it caused a skin reaction. They decide to file a claim against you, saying the product led to an allergic response that needed medical care.Even if you disagree with the claim and you’re not found liable, you may still need to respond. That can mean legal costs, back-and-forth communication, or even a settlement. Product liability insurance could help cover those costs, including legal defense and potential damages if your business is found responsible.*3. Workers’ Compensation insuranceIf you have employees helping at events, you will likely be required by state law to carry workers’ compensation insurance.It can help cover:Medical expenses if an employee gets hurt on the job.Lost wages while an employee recovers from a work-related illness or injury.Ongoing care or rehabilitation, if needed.Imagine that you bring on an employee to help run your booth at a busy festival. While unloading inventory, they hurt their back and need medical treatment.Workers’ compensation insurance may help cover their medical expenses and part of their lost wages while they recover.Do events and pop-ups require a certificate of insurance (COI)?Many event organizers will ask for a certificate of insurance, also called a COI or proof of insurance, before approving your application. Without it, you may not get the spot.You may also need to list the organizer or venue as an additional insured, which means your policy may help cover certain claims against them arising from your participation in the event.For vendors, having quick access to a COI can make it easier to:Apply to multiple events.Meet vendor requirements on short notice.Grab spots at popular or competitive markets.If you plan to sell at events regularly, having coverage in place — and being able to generate a COI quickly — can help you stay flexible and ready for new opportunities.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Trump drops IRS lawsuit, paving the way for a settlement The president sued the IRS and the Treasury Department in January, demanding $10 billion over the leak of his tax returns years ago.
	Four ways to win with KWQC: Riverdance, River Bandits, a national sing‑off and student honors KWQC’s Quad Cities Live highlighted four viewer contests now open, ranging from Riverdance and River Bandits ticket giveaways to a national Star‑Spangled Sing‑Off and a student recognition program.
	Explore the river with River Action programse Learn more about the history, ecology and culture along the Mississippi River and surrounding watershed with Channel Cat Talks and Riverine Walks from River Action. The series runs between May 26th - August 29th. Channel Cat Talks cost $20 per person or $200 for a season pass and are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from [...]
	Examining options for FX hedging Examining options for FX hedgingCurrency risk management has never been more critical. Over the past decade, businesses have endured a series of shocks. From the 2008 financial crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic and, more recently, inflationary pressures and geopolitical uncertainty, each episode has reinforced the same lesson: volatility can emerge quickly. As such, companies need strategies that balance protection with flexibility.The most recent data in the BIS Triennial Central Bank Survey show FX markets remain deep and active, which is why flexible currency hedging continues to be a priority for many companies. Global FX turnover averaged about $9.6 trillion per day in April 2025, a sizable jump from 2022 and a reminder that even routine cash flows can be exposed to meaningful price moves. At the same time, FX options activity accelerated, with options turnover more than doubling according to the same survey.That rise reflects a desire for downside protection with room to participate if rates move favorably. And episodes like the U.S. dollar’s sharp slide from April to May 2025, which coincided with increased hedging overlays by investors, underline how quickly currency dynamics can change and why risk programs need to be nimble.Fifth Third explores how companies are using FX options and other strategies to manage currency risk.What are FX options?Unlike forwards, which lock in future exchange rates, FX options can control negative price movements by creating price floors, while leaving room for companies to benefit from positive price movements.Companies’ specific risk tolerance can also be accommodated through the creation of bespoke options contracts, including strategies like setting specific price triggers, nominal sizes and the length of the contract. Options vary from the simple (aka “vanilla”) to the more complex. Still, important differences exist within FX options. For example, American-style contracts allow the holder to trigger the contract at any point up to maturity, while European-style contracts can only be exercised at expiration.A company looking to implement FX hedging options can follow a two-step program to determine the best course of action:Step 1: IdentificationSince FX options trade over the counter, companies typically work with counterparties to structure and price strategies for their mix of exposures. The first step, then, of all FX risk management strategies is to identify the company’s foreign currency risks or exposures.Companies need to “understand what their FX risk exposures are,” says Paul Choi, director of Foreign Exchange at Fifth Third Bank. “Often, this includes a considerable data accumulation issue, but it is a critical first step to ensure that the identification of the underlying risk is as concise as possible. This ensures that the options are calibrated accurately.”Choi notes that it is critical to net out the company’s FX exposures. For example, if the company has multiple businesses or subsidiaries, then these may have different FX exposures. One area of the company might be "long" a currency (has future revenues in that currency), and another is "short" (has costs in the same currency). In this scenario, it will be more efficient simply to hedge the net exposure rather than engage in two different hedges.For context, the BIS Triennial Central Bank Survey shows FX market activity is concentrated in major centers and remains highly liquid, which supports efficient execution for corporates.Step 2: MitigationOnce the FX risks have been identified and quantified, companies can then pass some or all of the risk to the options market. The specific strategy—the combination of different option types and their contract terms—will reflect the individual company’s risk tolerances. Options programs can be configured to enable FX exposure to move within narrow or wide bands, or to create floors while leaving the upside open.Companies can also manage in the short or long term, depending on the profile of the underlying FX risks and the overall risk management aim of the company. Typically, the optimal tenor for FX options programs is between 12 and 36 months.Many companies employ a rolling program, keeping the frontier of the risk management strategy at a consistent tenor by pushing out additional tiers to the program on a quarterly basis. A Deloitte Global Corporate Treasury Survey showed that many corporates build rolling programs that cover the next few quarters. Some even extend into multiyear horizons where exposures are reliable.Options are also often used to manage large one-off FX risks (such as those presented by cross-border mergers and acquisitions, or M&A, activity), as well as for operational FX exposures from ongoing business operations.How to communicate FX hedging benefits to stakeholdersThe flexibility inherent in options creates a powerful incentive for companies to minimize negative impacts to their balance sheet while allowing upside risk to be captured. Options offer a more sophisticated approach to risk management than is offered by forward contracts. That can be a powerful selling point for both internal and external stakeholders alike and is especially relevant given recent market episodes, where hedging overlays increased as currencies moved quickly.Critically, companies may need to educate their internal stakeholders in order to fully realize those benefits. For example, the accounting impact of using options can increase short-term reporting volatility, since the cost of the instruments is booked ahead of the financial benefits. It's important to communicate to stakeholders that this is, in fact, expected and strategic volatility. The goal is long-term benefits, including enhanced corporate reputation from a professional corporate governance perspective.Beyond the risk: InsightAs finance professionals become more comfortable with options-based risk management strategies, there are additional benefits beyond the mitigation of future cost and risk. For example, if there is clustering of pricing bands in the contracts for particular currency pairs, then this can provide important insight into the market’s sentiment regarding where that pair is likely to go.And it’s not just the pricing triggers that can reveal useful clues for market sentiment—one of the major components of options pricing is implied volatility. When this element of the premium increases, it reveals how volatile the market thinks a currency pair will perform.The advantages of moving to options-based strategies are usually well worth the effort it takes to move to a more sophisticated risk management strategy. The financial benefits that flow to a company from a more tailored risk approach, as well as the reputational enhancements and the greater market insights that can be derived, prove that the shift to options may endure well after the markets move beyond their current volatility.This story was produced by Fifth Third and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to manage 500+ apparel SKU variants without losing your mind How to manage 500+ apparel SKU variants without losing your mindIn apparel e-commerce, complexity builds quietly—then suddenly becomes overwhelming.A single product turns into multiple colors. Then sizes. Then seasonal variations, bundles, exclusives, and channel-specific assortments. Before long, what used to be a catalog becomes a system. And that system is under pressure.What makes this especially difficult is that SKU growth doesn’t scale cleanly. It presents more challenges faster than it drives revenue.That’s the real challenge, especially as retailers face higher costs of doing business. In fact, nearly a third of retailers cite rising operational and fulfillment costs as the main challenge to their business performance in 2026, according to ShipStation’s Ecommerce Delivery Benchmark Report.28% of retailers cite rising operational and fulfillment costs as the main challenge to their business performance in 2026.In today’s environment, operational shipping and fulfillment discipline—not assortment size—is what separates e-commerce brands that scale from those that stall.When growth starts to work against youMost teams don’t recognize the tipping point until things begin to break.Inventory becomes unreliable. Orders take longer to ship. Customer service volume increases. Returns pile up. And instead of focusing on e-commerce growth, the team shifts into reactive mode.This is a common pattern among e-commerce companies. The systems that once worked begin to fail under the weight of product volume and variation.Every additional SKU introduces more variables:More demand signals to interpretMore inventory to trackMore shipping and fulfillment decisions to makeMore opportunities for errorAnd those variables don’t stay isolated. They interact.At the same time, demand is becoming harder to predict. A vast majority of fashion executives cite consumer uncertainty as a major risk to growth.But here’s what many brands miss: The real pressure doesn’t peak at checkout. It peaks after.Where things start to break: the post-purchase experienceSKU complexity doesn’t stop once an order is placed—it accelerates.The post-purchase experience is often the most fragmented part of e-commerce operations, despite being one of the most visible to customers. Shipment tracking, returns, notifications, and support are often housed in separate systems, creating disconnects for both teams and shoppers.This fragmentation shows up in familiar ways:Customers can’t easily track orders across channelsPolicies vary depending on where the product was purchasedReturns are handled manually or inconsistentlyRetailers can’t access a systematic view of their delivery performanceSupport teams spend time answering basic status questionsRetailers lack predictive capabilities to proactively prevent issuesAt scale, these issues aren’t minor—they become structural.And they directly impact customer perception. Today’s shoppers don’t separate product from experience. They evaluate the entire journey, from discovery to delivery to returns.A majority of consumers now evaluate delivery options before checkout, making fulfillment part of the purchase decision itself.The implication is clear: Managing so many SKUs now requires optimizing the entire post-purchase journey, not just inventory and fulfillment.Returns are the center of the problem—and the opportunityIf SKU complexity is the cause, returns are where it becomes visible.E-commerce has one of the highest return rates. Every additional size, fit, or variation increases the likelihood of a mismatch—leading to higher return rates.But the real issue is how the volume of returns is handled.Many brands still treat returns as a cost center—something to process and move on from. In reality, returns sit at the intersection of operations, revenue, and customer loyalty.When returns are fragmented or manual:Refunds become the default outcomeRevenue is lost unnecessarilyInventory takes longer to re-enter circulationCustomer satisfaction declinesAnd often, the root issue is structural. Merchants lack centralized workflows, so returns initiated via email, marketplaces, or support channels aren’t captured in a single system. At the same time, the costs of apparel returns drain margins, disrupt inventory flow and shipping operations, and erode customer trust.This is where leading brands are shifting their approach to returns management.They’re redesigning returns as part of the customer experience—not the exception to it:Creating consistent, branded return experiences across channelsMaking exchanges as easy as refundsIncentivizing store credit instead of defaulting to cash refundsUsing returns data to improve product and inventory decisionsThis shift turns returns from a cost into a lever.It also reflects a deeper change in how e-commerce operations are evolving. Post-purchase data—returns, delivery performance, customer behavior—is becoming just as important as pre-purchase data.And that matters, because at scale, challenges aren’t solved by working harder. They are solved by seeing more clearly.The shift from SKU management to system designBrands that manage 500+ SKUs successfully aren’t doing more work—they’re operating differently. Instead of managing each SKU individually, they rely on systems that can handle a large number of products, channels, and workflows in real time.This shift shows up in a few key ways:Data becomes centralized. Teams get a single, reliable view across inventory, orders, fulfillment, and returns. That shared visibility creates a stronger foundation for decision-making.Workflows become automated and rule-based. Orders are routed based on inventory, location, or carrier rates. Manual decisions don’t disappear—but they’re no longer the default.Fulfillment and post-purchase are treated as a connected system rather than separate stages. Inventory drives fulfillment, fulfillment impacts delivery, and delivery influences returns—each step feeding into the next.As these systems come together, visibility evolves into something more valuable: intelligence. It’s no longer enough to see what happened—brands need to understand why. Which products drive returns? Where are delays happening? What’s creating friction across the customer journey?Platforms that unify this information into a single layer of insight—such as intelligent shipping and fulfillment tools—are playing an increasingly important role in supporting better decision-making, in addition to better reporting.With an intelligent delivery platform, flexibility also becomes a core advantage. The most effective operations aren’t rigidly optimized—they’re designed to adapt. They can shift inventory, adjust workflows, and evolve policies without rebuilding the system each time something changes.Taken together, the shift is clear:Centralized data over fragmented toolsAutomated workflows over manual decisionsConnected systems over silosIntelligence over guessworkFlexibility over rigidityIn this model, success comes from using systems that scale with the business—so growth adds momentum, not friction.How e-commerce brands winWhat separates high-performing e-commerce brands isn’t how many SKUs they carry. It’s how well they manage everything that happens around them—before, during, and after the purchase.Complexity shows up in fulfillment, returns, and customer experience. It’s inevitable. But chaos doesn’t have to be.This story was produced by ShipStation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	WIU will hold two listening sessions - one in Moline - about housing policy In conjunction with the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA), Western Illinois University will host two community listening sessions for the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s (IHDA) 2027 Illinois Housing Blueprint development process at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, on the Macomb campus and 1 p.m. Thursday, May 21 at the Quad Cities campus, according to [...]
	Kids keep getting stuck in Missouri hospitals, even after being cleared for discharge The hospital bed of a teenager who had to remain there for days after he was cleared for discharge while the grown-ups in his life lined up a safe place for him to go (Cara Anthony/KFF Health News).Overwhelmed by the demands of caregiving, Quette dialed 911 when she found her teenage son downstairs in their kitchen struggling to breathe. He had rolled his wheelchair to the oven to keep himself warm as he tried to regulate his temperature, she recalled, and was drenched in sweat from an apparent infection. In that moment, Quette knew that she and her son’s grandmother could no longer meet his medical needs at their Illinois home just outside of St. Louis. He had become paralyzed when he was shot in 2023, and despite their efforts, they struggled to take care of him. But she never imagined that her quick call for help that day would turn into a months-long hospital stay for her son — even after he was well enough to be discharged. She said their family had been begging hospitals for a home health aide to help care for his wounds, only to be accused of neglect. “They were like, ‘Well, y’all almost killed him,’” she recalled officials telling her. KFF Health News agreed to use only her nickname to protect the safety of her son. “I had to give up. I just couldn’t take care of him anymore,” Quette said. “It was just a lot on me. It was something that I was not ready for.” Once his immediate medical needs were addressed, her son didn’t leave the hospital. His grandmother, who was his legal guardian, had died and the teen ultimately became a ward of the state. He continued living inside a St. Louis children’s hospital for what’s commonly called a “social stay.” Also referred to as hospital boarding or delayed discharge, the practice of keeping children in hospitals “beyond medical necessity” has become a persistent problem — flummoxing officials in Missouri, Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, and beyond — when there’s no safe place to care for the child. Finding homes for foster kids is difficult across the country. They have spent nights in casino hotels in Nevada and offices in Georgia and Maryland. This problem even has a name: “hoteling.” But add medical needs to the mix, and hospitals become the holding station for some kids. Many children stuck in this limbo have mental health or behavioral issues, while some have chronic physical conditions or disabilities for which they need technology, equipment, or other assistance. “It’s definitely a national problem,” said Elaine Lin, a pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital and the chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Section on Home Care. “Every state has different options in terms of where kids can go post-acute care. But in general, there’s many of our kids with medical complexity who just don’t have access to the appropriate home nursing to bring them home safely.” It’s gotten so bad that Missouri lawmakers have repeatedly introduced bills to try to significantly reduce the number of hospital boarding days each year and eventually end the practice altogether. Quette said her son was housed in a private hospital room while he waited for the state to find a place for him elsewhere. Other children spend weeks, months, and, in extreme cases, years in acute care hospitals while grown-ups scramble to find them safe places to go, according to Lynn Rasnick, a nurse and vice president at the Missouri Hospital Association. She said some children sleep on emergency room stretchers. They sit in windowless rooms. They miss school. And they’re exposed to all the trauma that comes through the hospital on any given day. To keep young boarders safe, some hospitals hire “sitters” for kids with no place to go, while other institutions have passed along chaperoning duties to hospital workers. But all that comes at a cost beyond the toll it takes on kids and families. When a child no longer needs hospital-level care, insurers don’t have to pay for their stay. Some hospitals eat the cost. Others ask the state for reimbursement if the child who is waiting for placement is in state custody. According to the Missouri Hospital Association, the state’s Department of Social Services reimbursed $16.3 million to 19 hospitals for 9,943 boarding days last year — more than $1,600 a night. But association spokesperson Dave Dillon said that’s a substantial undercount of the problem and that hospitals often aren’t reimbursed for housing children. One study found that boarding a child with a complex medical condition in Minnesota cost about $3,932 a day in 2017. And a 2023 Minnesota Hospital Association survey of about 100 hospitals estimated the unpaid costs of “unnecessary” patient stays for adults and kids at $487 million for 195,000 days of care. Lin, the Boston-based pediatrician, said a shortage of home healthcare workers forces some families to keep their children in the hospital, even though they’re well enough to go home. State Medicaid programs face new pressure from federal cuts in congressional Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage for those with low incomes or disabilities, is expected to lose nearly $1 trillion in federal funding by 2034, so some states are already threatening to scale back optional home-care programs. Quette, a single mom who once worked as a paid caregiver and now works as a custodian, said her family repeatedly asked hospitals for a home health aide but was told her son’s insurance wouldn’t cover it. Her son’s paternal grandmother, who had helped raise him, was in a wheelchair herself at that point. Quette’s son needed his bandages changed regularly, and she had to turn him around in his bed every four hours. “I had to wake up out of my sleep to rotate him,” Quette said. “And I couldn’t do it. I was oversleeping.” Parents across the country face similar challenges. Last year, Georgia officials said 500 children had been “relinquished” by their parents and turned over to the state’s Division of Family & Children Services due to complex behavioral or psychiatric needs. In Colorado, a hospital worker emailed a state representative for help after an autistic 13-year-old boy spent weeks at UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital in Longmont. After his father left him there, officials told hospital workers that it would take months to find a safe place for the boy to go. Last fiscal year, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services logged 304 cases of youth in psychiatric hospitals beyond medical necessity, according to an annual report released by the state. About 43% of those cases were among patients ages 13 to 16. This year, Missouri state Sen. Jamie Burger, a Republican, introduced a bill that would require his state to move faster and pay for care when a child is stuck in a hospital. Similar bills died in committee last year and the year before. This year, Burger’s bill remained stuck in committee when the legislative session ended May 15. According to a fiscal note attached to the bill, paying for hospital boarding could cost more than $148 million a year in a state that already plans to tap its reserves to fund its upcoming $50.7 billion budget. Over 18 months, the Mercy hospital system, one of the largest in Missouri, logged 2,687 boarding days, testified Patty Morrow, a Mercy vice president, in a March hearing on the bill. That included adults who also were stuck without a safe place to go. “That was never really ever the intended purpose of a hospital,” Morrow told KFF Health News. “The current state cannot be the ongoing solution.” The bill requires the juvenile court system to ensure that children are placed in “an appropriate setting,” which would entail involvement of social workers and other public servants. Rasnick, with the Missouri Hospital Association, also spelled out the issue during the hearing. “You can’t just discharge a 9-year-old into the street,” she told lawmakers. Quette’s son is still in state custody but no longer hospitalized. Illinois officials declined to let the teen share his story with KFF Health News. His mother said she is still holding on to his brace, bandages, ointment, and other medical supplies in her home. “That’s all I have,” Quette said. “That’s the stuff I will never give away.” This piece was supported by a grant from the Association of Health Care Journalists, with funding from The Joyce Foundation. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF — the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism. Courtesy of Missouri Independent
	Chances to build generational wealth you may have missed since the 2022 market bottom Chances to build generational wealth you may have missed since the 2022 market bottomA $21,000 bet on SanDisk one year ago would be worth more than a million dollars today. Let that sink in.SanDisk and Western Digital went their separate ways in February 2025. Since then, the stock has returned roughly 41 times investors’ money, as AI-mania sent NAND flash memory demand through the roof.And SanDisk (SNDK) isn’t the only stock where you could have turned a normal-sized portfolio into generational wealth over the last few years. It’s just the most recent.SanDisk and the other names on this list share one thing: the entry came at a moment of market panic. Big returns tend to come from buying when everyone else is selling. Since the start of 2022, two such moments are worth studying: the 2022 bear market that bottomed in October and dragged through December, and the tariff-driven selloff of April 2025, which pushed the S&P 500 down 19% from its February peak in a matter of weeks. Below are stocks where a $10,000 to $50,000 gamble at their bottoms is now worth roughly a million dollars.Finder.com looked at the publicly traded stocks that delivered the biggest returns since the 2022 bottom, the entry size needed to produce a seven-figure outcome, and what each company actually did to get there. Returns are based on Yahoo Finance closing prices for May 13, 2026.One caveat upfront: Each name on this list had its own bottom on a different date. No single investor caught all four. The point isn’t to dwell on what you missed but to look at what these moments had in common and what the names that didn’t bounce got wrong.SanDisk (SNDK)Entry needed to hit $1 million: ~$21,000 in April 2025One-year return: ~4,785% (about 48x)SanDisk separated from Western Digital on Feb. 24, 2025, and started trading independently on the Nasdaq. The stock closed near $30 a year ago and now sits near $1,447. A $1,000 investment last April at SNDK’s bottom is worth about $49,000 now. A $21,000 stake is worth about $1,026,000. The same $1,000 in the S&P 500 would have grown to roughly $1,410.The timing wasn’t an accident. SanDisk’s first months of independent trading coincided with the broad tariff selloff that hit U.S. equities in late March and early April 2025. The stock was a newly public, unproven story trading into a market panic. That combination gave the AI infrastructure thesis time to build before the price caught up.The fundamentals back it up. AI infrastructure spending broke the NAND flash supply-demand balance, and SanDisk’s recent quarters have shown explosive revenue growth, gross margin expansion and a long list of multiyear supply contracts with hyperscaler customers. The stock joined the Nasdaq-100 in April 2026, replacing Atlassian.The caveat: SanDisk now trades at valuations that would have looked absurd a year ago. Whatever the next 12 months hold, it’s unlikely they’ll look like the last 12. Finder Carvana (CVNA)Entry needed to hit $1 million: ~$11,000 in December 2022Return from entry: ~9,346% (about 93x)Carvana (CVNA) closed at $3.70 on Dec. 27, 2022, or adjusted $0.74 following the company’s 5-for-1 stock split on May 7, 2026. The market had priced in an almost certain bankruptcy, following the company’s acquisition of ADESA during a period of rising rates and a softening used-car market.Flash-forward to May 2026 and the stock was trading near $70 on a split-adjusted basis, meaning an $11,000 investment at the December 2022 low is worth just over $1 million.A brief timeline to successRestructured debt, aggressive cost cutting and an improved used-car market all played a part in turning around CVNA’s trajectory. The company’s revenue grew from $13.7 billion in 2024 to $20.3 billion in 2025 (an increase of 49%), with net income of $1.9 billion and retail units sold jumping 43%.None of this was visible at the bottom. Carvana lost about 98% of its value in 2022 before bouncing. Buying at $3.70 meant putting real money on the line even as most analysts, much of Wall Street and many of its own bondholders, thought Carvana was off to the junk yard. Finder AppLovin (APP)Entry needed to hit $1 million: ~$21,000 in December 2022Return from entry: ~4,776% (about 48x)AppLovin (APP) closed at $9.30 on Dec. 27, 2022, the final week of a brutal year for growth stocks. Written off by many retail investors as a casualty of the post-pandemic mobile gaming bust, APP’s next three years will see its value jump from under $10 to near $470.A brief timeline to successThe turning point is the 2023 rollout of Axon 2.0, AppLovin’s AI-powered ad-targeting engine, which starts routing more ad spend per impression, lifting both gaming-app revenue and gross margins. The company joined the S&P 500 in 2024. By 2025, revenue reached $5.5 billion (up 70%), with EBITDA margins above 80%.A $21,000 buy in December 2022 is worth roughly $1.06 million in May 2026. Finder Palantir Technologies (PLTR)Entry needed to hit $1 million: ~$47,000 in December 2022Return from entry: ~2,068% (about 21x)Palantir Technologies (PLTR) wasn’t a turnaround story. It was a battered tech stock that became the best-performing S&P 500 stock of 2024, returning 340.5% on the year. Shares closed at $6.00 on Dec. 27, 2022, and now trade around the $130 mark.A brief timeline to successThe catalyst was the April 2023 launch of the Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP), which unlocked commercial demand that the company’s defense and intelligence DNA had previously gated. Q1 2026 revenue grew 85% year-over-year — the fastest growth Palantir has posted since its 2020 direct listing. U.S. commercial revenue grew 133%.A $47,000 stake at the end of 2022 was worth over $1.6 million by November 2025. The position has pulled back somewhat in 2026 amid valuation concerns, but it’s still well into multibagger territory with a $47,000 stake in 2022 worth $1.2 million in May 2026. Finder What these trades had in commonA few patterns are worth pulling out before you start scanning your watchlist for the next one.Each of them was left for dead first. Carvana was a bankruptcy candidate. AppLovin was a beaten-down mobile ad-tech name the market had soured on. Palantir was an unprofitable software stock. SanDisk was an untested spinoff from a sleepy storage company. The 12 months before each of these stocks went vertical were the hardest months to own them or, in SanDisk’s case, the 12 months before it even existed as a standalone stock.Each entry happened in a market panic. Three of the four bottomed in the December 2022 stretch of the 2022 bear market. SanDisk’s May 2025 low came in the aftermath of the tariff-driven selloff that pushed the S&P 500 down 19% from its February peak. Both moments did the same thing — they took good companies down with the bad.Each rode one big narrative once the panic ended. AI infrastructure carried SanDisk and Palantir. The Axon 2.0 AI ad-targeting engine carried AppLovin. An operational turnaround, debt restructuring, cost cuts and a return to profitability carried Carvana.The narrative did the heavy lifting, but the operating fundamentals had to validate enough of it to keep the move going. The winners had real revenue, real margins, and real cash flow to back up the story. Stocks that ran the same narratives without the cash flow — quantum names like IonQ (IONQ) and Rigetti, pre-revenue nuclear developers like Oklo (OKLO) and NuScale — mostly underperformed. When sector enthusiasm cooled in Q1 2026, the gap showed up in the price almost immediately.Survivorship bias is doing real work here. For every Carvana that returned 100 times, dozens of similarly battered 2022 names have either gone bankrupt or never recovered. Lordstown Motors and Bird filed for Chapter 11. Plug Power, Lucid, and Beyond Meat are still trading but never came back. A 2024 version of this list would have featured a half-dozen quantum stocks and SMR developers that have since given back most of what they gained.The takeawayIf you want to be positioned for the next SanDisk, the playbook is the same as it’s always been: Build a thesis on where capital is going, look for businesses that benefit from that thesis but are priced like they don’t, and decide in advance how much you’re willing to lose if you’re wrong. Most people skip the last part. The first step is having a brokerage account ready when the next opportunity shows up.This story was produced by Finder and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Do you need a medication lockbox? Do you need a medication lockbox?Medications play a crucial role in many people’s lives by helping manage and treat health conditions. They’re also commonly used for everyday ailments that come and go, such as headaches. Survey research of 21,000 people collected from June 2023 to April 2024 suggests that, in a typical week, nearly 2 in 3 U.S. adults use at least one prescription or over‑the‑counter (OTC) medication.With so many households having medications on hand, it’s common to have questions about how to store them safely. This may be especially true if you’re concerned that others might be able to access them.A 2022 study of data spanning 2009 to 2020 found that about 35,000 children under age 6 end up in the ER every year because they access medications they should not. There’s also a concern for some people about family members or visitors having access to habit-forming medications or potent ones that might be harmful even with a single dose.Here, GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, discusses one of the safest ways to store your medications at home — a medication lockbox.Key takeaways:Keeping your medications stored away and safely protected can help prevent accidental ingestion, especially if you have children or pets in your household.A medication lockbox can help you store your medications so that only you or those you trust have access to them. Lockboxes can help protect children, pets, or anyone at risk of misuse or self-harm.Medication lockboxes come in different shapes, styles, and sizes, with a range of features to fit your personal storage needs.Should you get a medication lockbox?It’s not a bad idea to have a medication lockbox, especially if you have kids or pets at home. Even if you live alone, you may be concerned about visitors or find a lockbox useful for keeping your medications safe and private when you’re traveling.As this article will detail later, there are multiple ways to store medications out of reach of people who should not have access to them. However, storing medications in child-protective bottles or even in a hidden spot may not be enough to deter children, pets, and other people from accessing your medications.Storing medication securely is essential. And a medication lockbox can add an extra layer of security. In fact, experts say parents and caregivers should ideally store all medications in a lockbox or locked cabinet to prevent accidental poisoning.But not many parents use a medication lockbox. One small 2020 study of 50 caregivers with children found that only 4% of parents used a locked container or drawer to store medications. But more than 90% said they would use a lockbox if one were available to them.Some medications are also riskier than others. Their potential risks exemplify the benefits of a medication lockbox. For instance, proper storage of opioid medications is a concern for many healthcare professionals. Research shows that opioids are the most common substances involved in fatal poisoning among young children. In one small 2018 survey of adults prescribed opioids for pain, only about 1 in 4 stored their opioids in a locked location at home.What are the benefits of a medication lockbox?Using a medication lockbox can help you store your medicines more safely while offering many potential benefits.Privacy: Many people prefer to keep their medications private, even from roommates, family members, or friends. A lockbox helps keep your medications accessible to you while limiting who can see or handle them.Protection: A lockbox keeps your medications in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. These are ideal storage conditions for most medications that don’t need refrigeration. Just be sure to follow any special storage instructions on your prescription or package label.Portability: Many medication lockboxes come with handles so you can easily take them with you on day trips, work shifts, or an overnight stay. Having your medications in one secure place can help you stay organized and reduce the worry of forgetting something.Poison prevention: A lockbox adds an extra layer of safety for children and pets by keeping medications out of reach and locked away. This can lower the risk of swallowing them accidentally or taking the wrong dose.Self-harm prevention: For people who are struggling with thoughts of self‑harm, keeping medications out of easy reach can add a layer of safety and create more time to reach out for help.Misuse prevention: Locking up medications, especially opioids, stimulants, and other controlled substances, can reduce the chance that someone else might misuse them.Security: A lockbox can also be used to store other products that can be harmful if swallowed or misused, such as cannabis edibles and vaping products. Keeping these items locked up helps protect children, teens, and pets and lowers the risk of accidental poisoning or misuse.How do you get a medication lockbox?Many lockboxes are used to store other valuables, such as jewelry, money, or important documents. These lockboxes could also work for your medications. However, there are special medication lockboxes that you may prefer.There are multiple styles of medication lockboxes available for purchase. And many local pharmacies readily carry them. If you regularly keep controlled substances at home, consider checking with your local health department or community prevention programs. They may be able to connect you with low‑cost or free medication lockboxes.How do you choose a medication lockbox?Ultimately, you’ll want to consider how large a storage space you need, the number of medications or devices you have, and what works well in your life and living space. For example, if you have a small number of prescription vials, you may prefer pill bottles with locking caps that require a combination to open instead of a full-sized lockbox.You should also decide if you want to store all or only some of your medications in the lockbox. For instance, you may choose to lock away only prescriptions that could be potentially misused by others, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or cannabis.Another thing to consider is how you want to keep the box locked. Many lockboxes use a key, numerical code, or both. You’ll want to choose locking features that work best to deter others who may have access to the box. For example, a simple key may keep out a small child, but an adult may be able to pick such a lock.Features and types to consider include:Wall‑mounted or cabinet lockboxes: Some are made to sit on a countertop, while others can be mounted on a wall or inside a cabinet or closet.Compartment inserts: Some lockboxes have compartments or inserts to keep pill bottles steady, so they do not shake around if you’re transporting the box.Travel‑friendly designs: Smaller, grab-and-go styles may be easier to take on trips, while larger ones can hold additional supplies or devices.Key or combination locks: Many boxes use a key or a numerical code. Some come with a backup key for use if you forget the combination.Cushioned interiors: Padding can help protect glass bottles or vials while moving the lockbox.Different exterior materials: Options may include metal, hard plastic, sturdy fabric, or flexible plastic.High‑tech options: Some lockboxes connect to a smartphone app via Bluetooth and can be locked or unlocked electronically.What medications should you put in your lockbox?You may want to put medications that are more prone to overdose, misuse, or accidental poisoning in a lockbox. Examples of these medications include:Heart or blood pressure medications, such as blood thinners and calcium channel blockers.Blood glucose‑lowering (blood sugar-lowering) medications, such as sulfonylureas.Opioid pain medications, such as oxycodone (Roxicodone, OxyContin).Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax).Stimulants, such as mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall).OTC pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol).Some antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL).Topical hormones, such as testosterone gel (AndroGel).Topical steroids, such as clobetasol.Hazardous drugs, such as chemotherapy medications.Iron-containing supplements.Considerations when deciding what to put in a lockboxThe first step you need to take before using a lockbox is to organize your medications. Gather up all of your medications and determine if any of them are expired or no longer needed. You should then dispose of them safely at a designated medication drop box or drop-off location.Once you have done this, determine if any of your medications need special storage. For example, with some injectable medications, such as insulin, you’ll need a refrigerator.Generally, most medications should be stored in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures. These room‑temperature medications are generally good candidates for a lockbox. Just keep in mind that a lockbox left in a very hot or cold environment won’t protect your medications from extreme temperatures.If you have young children or pets, you may want to lock away liquid, chewable, or gummy dosage forms that can look like candy or food. This can help prevent accidental ingestion.What medications shouldn’t go in a lockbox?Another thing to consider is not locking up medications that are needed in an emergency, such as epinephrine (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, neffy) for severe allergic reactions, rescue inhalers for lung conditions, or under-the-tongue nitroglycerin tablets (Nitrostat) for chest pain or heart attacks. Needles and syringes for injectable medications also may not fit in a lockbox, so it’s best to store them in another location that’s out of reach if this is the case.What is the typical shelf life of medications?The typical shelf life varies depending on what medication you’re taking. But in general, many oral pills will last for one to two years after they’re manufactured. If you store your medications as recommended by the manufacturer, they should last until their expiration date. This date can be found on your prescription label or OTC package. But keep in mind that storing medications safely won’t extend their shelf life.A notable exception is reconstituted medications, such as liquid antibiotics. These only last a short time after your pharmacy mixes them — usually about one to two weeks. And most insulin vials or pens expire within 28 days after being opened.If you’re ever unsure about a medication’s expiration date or how long it’s good for, ask your pharmacist.Where should you store your lockbox?Your lockbox should ideally be easily accessible by you or a trusted person who helps you with your medications, such as a spouse or nurse. Anyone with access should know how to operate the box, such as having a key or knowing the combination. Do not share the key or combination with anyone else. After using your medications and returning them to the box, lock the box and store it in a location that is out of sight.Keep in mind, a medication lockbox is only a deterrent for others but is not a perfect method for keeping people out. A determined individual can still take the lockbox or try to force it open, especially outside of your presence.Are there alternative methods to store your medication?Medication lockboxes aren’t the only way to store your medication. Any locking container, such as a safe, offers similar benefits as a medication lockbox. Other methods, such as hiding pill bottles, are less secure. But storing your medication up high and out of sight is a good place to start.There are also other ways to help prevent children from accidentally accessing medications. The CDC’s PROTECT Initiative includes the Up and Away campaign. It aims to teach parents, grandparents, and other caregivers how to use and store medications safely around children.Some helpful tips include:Store medications in a high place out of the reach of children.Never leave medications out in the open — including on a counter or bathroom sink — where children can get them.Use child protection caps and make sure they are sealed tight. Listen for the click these caps make when fully closed, or twist until the cap no longer turns.When traveling with medications, keep them in their original containers with their child-resistant caps.Teach children about medication safety and who to trust to take medication from. Never tell your child that medicine is candy, even if they don’t want to take their medication.Tell your guests to put any bags, purses, or suitcases that contain medications up high or behind a locked door while at your house.If you believe your child has accidentally taken medication, contact the Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222 or online.The bottom lineNot everyone needs a medication lockbox. But having one available can be helpful in many situations. If you have controlled substances or live with young children or anyone at risk for misuse or self-harm, a lockbox can provide an added layer of safety.Not all medications need to be — or should be — stored in a lockbox. You can always talk to a healthcare professional for personalized advice about what should and shouldn’t be stored in one.Medication lockboxes vary in size, shape, lock types, and other features. Even if you don’t use a lockbox, always practice safe medication storage. This includes keeping your medications up high, away from extremes of temperature, and away from kids and anyone who might misuse them.This story was produced by GoodRx and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Where home prices increased most: 2026 study Where home prices increased most: 2026 studyHome values can reflect cost of living trends in an area, giving hopeful homebuyers as well as existing homeowners a pulse on the momentum in their local market. Between 2025 and 2026, the typical home value in large U.S. cities actually declined by 1.04%, with values dropping in 70% of cities. But the full range of changes from market to market ran the gamut from a decrease of 9.1% to a 5.6% increase, putting both hopeful buyers and homeowners in starkly different environments across the nation.With this in mind, SmartAsset ranked 100 of the largest U.S. cities based on the one-year change in the typical local home value. Changes over the last five years and from pre-pandemic times are also reported.Key FindingsThese midwestern cities contend with San Francisco, NYC for increasing home values. Toledo, Ohio ranked number one for highest home value increase at 5.6% year over year, with a resulting typical home value of $126,270. Lincoln, Nebraska ranked second with a 4.1% increase putting homes at a typical $285,359. San Francisco and New York City — among some of the priciest housing markets nationwide at a typical value of $1.3 million and $800k respectively — ranked third and fourth for price growth at roughly 4.0% each.Typical homes cost over $1.5 million in Irvine, CA. Of large U.S. cities, Irvine has the most expensive homes this year at a typical value of $1,541,925. Despite a 0.6% decrease in values year over year, Irvine maintains the largest five-year value increase at 70.1%. San Jose, California, which has the second highest home value in 2026 at $1,435,993, experienced a larger year-over-year decline of 2.7%.Home values fall more than 9% in this Bay Area city. Oakland, California experienced the steepest decline in home values at 9.1% in just one year, dropping from $770,708 to $700,829. It is also the only large city where home values declined since 2019 (6.7%). Over the past year, home values in St. Petersburg, FL (7.5%); Naples, FL (6.4%); Austin, TX (6%); and Plano, TX (5.1%) follow Oakland with some of the steepest declines.Since pre-pandemic, home values increased most in Knoxville, TN. Over the last seven years, the typical home value in Knoxville increased 94.0%, nearly doubling from $187,490 to $363,688 today. On average, home values in big cities have increased 48.6% over this time period. SmartAsset Top 10 Cities Where Home Values Increased MostToledo, OhioOne year change: 5.60%Typical home value in 2026: $126,270Typical home value in 2025: $119,577Five year change: 41.75%Change since pre-pandemic: 79.48%Lincoln, NebraskaOne year change: 4.11%Typical home value in 2026: $285,359Typical home value in 2025: $274,091Five year change: 34.15%Change since pre-pandemic: 53.44%San FranciscoOne year change: 4.04%Typical home value in 2026: $1,299,230Typical home value in 2025: $1,248,791Five year change: -1.46%Change since pre-pandemic: 2.25%New York CityOne year change: 3.97%Typical home value in 2026: $812,534Typical home value in 2025: $781,476Five year change: 10.29%Change since pre-pandemic: 14.53%Milwaukee, WisconsinOne year change: 3.69%Typical home value in 2026: $216,278Typical home value in 2025: $208,590Five year change: 45.08%Change since pre-pandemic: 83.14%Buffalo, New YorkOne year change: 3.65%Typical home value in 2026: $232,351Typical home value in 2025: $224,159Five year change: 42.51%Change since pre-pandemic: 82.79%Lexington, KentuckyOne year change: 3.12%Typical home value in 2026: $322,743Typical home value in 2025: $312,974Five year change: 41.15%Change since pre-pandemic: 64.61%Tulsa, OklahomaOne year change: 2.86%Typical home value in 2026: $212,757Typical home value in 2025: $206,846Five year change: 37.10%Change since pre-pandemic: 72.06%Louisville, KentuckyOne year change: 2.50%Typical home value in 2026: $259,139Typical home value in 2025: $252,809Five year change: 28.50%Change since pre-pandemic: 49.20%Virginia Beach, VirginiaOne year change: 2.50%Typical home value in 2026: $418,508Typical home value in 2025: $408,317Five year change: 30.83%Change since pre-pandemic: 50.24%Top 10 Cities Where Home Values Decreased MostOakland, CaliforniaOne year change: -9.07%Typical home value in 2026: $700,829Typical home value in 2025: $770,708Five year change: -15.52%Change since pre-pandemic: -6.65%Saint Petersburg, FloridaOne year change: -7.47%Typical home value in 2026: $345,243Typical home value in 2025: $373,112Five year change: 28.01%Change since pre-pandemic: 56.47%Naples, FloridaOne year change: -6.35%Typical home value in 2026: $548,175Typical home value in 2025: $585,350Five year change: 43.98%Change since pre-pandemic: 55.48%Austin, TexasOne year change: -5.93%Typical home value in 2026: $500,627Typical home value in 2025: $532,202Five year change: 6.88%Change since pre-pandemic: 32.41%Plano, TexasOne year change: -5.10%Typical home value in 2026: $501,564Typical home value in 2025: $528,510Five year change: 32.43%Change since pre-pandemic: 44.13%Aurora, ColoradoOne year change: -4.43%Typical home value in 2026: $458,953Typical home value in 2025: $480,216Five year change: 15.40%Change since pre-pandemic: 31.61%DenverOne year change: -4.32%Typical home value in 2026: $530,920Typical home value in 2025: $554,868Five year change: 10.98%Change since pre-pandemic: 24.67%AtlantaOne year change: -3.95%Typical home value in 2026: $381,549Typical home value in 2025: $397,252Five year change: 11.15%Change since pre-pandemic: 22.57%Stockton, CaliforniaOne year change: -3.95%Typical home value in 2026: $426,138Typical home value in 2025: $443,665Five year change: 17.14%Change since pre-pandemic: 39.30%Tampa, FloridaOne year change: -3.93%Typical home value in 2026: $369,079Typical home value in 2025: $384,167Five year change: 36.35%Change since pre-pandemic: 65.02%Data and MethodologyThis study examined home sale data for 100 of the largest metro areas in the U.S. to determine one-year and five-year price growth. Data for February, 2026, 2025 and 2021 comes from Zillow’s Home Value Index for single-family homes, condos and co-ops.This story was produced by SmartAsset and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Eastern Iowa sailor returns after Navy’s longest carrier deployment since Vietnam War Travis from Buchanan County returned home Saturday after spending 11 months aboard the USS Gerald Ford. He reunited with his family after the Navy’s longest carrier deployment since the Vietnam War

Tuesday, May 19th, 2026

Monday, May 18th, 2026