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

Thursday, September 17th, 2026
	North Scott employee named fine arts administrator of the year North Scott High School’s Jason Schroeder has been named fine arts administrator of the year. According to a release, Schroeder, activities director for North Scott High School, was awarded the 2027 Iowa Fine Arts Administrator of the Year by the Iowa Alliance for Arts Education (IAAE) and School Administrators of Iowa (SAI). Schroeder has served [...]
	OpenAI flags new concerning AI behavior, to track model misalignment regularly OpenAI has disclosed six reports on unexpected or concerning behavior in artificial-intelligence models. This includes models acting without authorization or evading oversight.
Wednesday, September 16th, 2026
	Rockridge, Riverdale enter week 5 unbeaten ahead of spotlight matchup Rockridge and Riverdale are both 4-0 heading into the Highlight Zone’s spotlight game of the week.
	Galena, the Backwards This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Galena, Illinois, a hundred miles upriver, must be one of the more unusual small towns along the Upper Mississippi…
	Man with dementia reported missing from Farmington According to police, David "Barry" Coulter's wife last saw him in their home's kitchen around 3 a.m. Tuesday.
	Moline school staff launch free community meals to fight food insecurity The first free meal will be Sept. 24 for any family in the Moline-Coal Valley School District. It's tied in with the free Maroon Market at the high school.
	2 former John Deere employees suing over severance payments The employees allege Deere changed how performance reviews work to avoid paying the severance they had earned.
	MercyOne Genesis breaks ground on Family Medicine Residency expansion The project will include two new resident rooms, four new exam rooms, renovated lab spaces and more.
	UnityPoint Health-Trinity heart experts first in the Quad Cities to new AFib technology UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center has become the first health system in the Quad Cities to use a new FDA-approved technology to treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common type of heart rhythm disorder, a news release says. Electrophysiologists and care teams at Trinity Heart Center performed the first successfulpulsed field ablation [...]
	Bettendorf traffic alerts for upcoming parades, marathon A series of traffic alerts will affect drivers in Bettendorf over the next couple of weeks.
	Quad Cities farmers keep close eye on forecast as fall harvest approaches Recent rainfall has not yet altered local harvest plans, but persistent wet weather remains a top concern.
	Amazon increases minimum starting pay, adds new discount for employees The move bumps the company's average hourly wage to almost $24 an hour.
	Alaska senators question legality of state land transfer for possible Mat-Su data centers A welcome sign to the city of Houston in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough is seen in an undated photo. (Photo by Amy Bushatz)The prospect of data centers in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough has raised public concern and scrutiny of a proposed state land transfer of nearly 20,000 acres to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority. Now, Alaska lawmakers are weighing in with legal concerns about the state’s proposal. The Alaska Department of Natural Resources issued a preliminary decision in July to convey the nearly 30 square miles of land near Houston in a non-competitive, no-cost state land transfer to AIDEA, the state-owned economic development agency, for a “multi-use industrial and energy development district,” which could include data centers. A group of senators on the Senate Resources Committee raised a range of concerns with the proposed land transfer to AIDEA in two letters to DNR during a public comment period. Among their concerns, senators cited a legal analysis that calls into question the legality of the land transfer to AIDEA for “public and charitable use” because under the law the state can only make such a transfer if the land serves a sufficient public purpose. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. According to the legal analysis by an attorney with the non-partisan Legislative Affairs Agency, “the conveyance may raise legal issues” without a DNR review of the proposed projects for the industrial district. So far, no projects have been confirmed at the site. “We are concerned that the uses for the AIDEA conveyance are too vaguely premised,” the senators wrote in a Sep. 9 letter to the department. “The public interest cannot be evaluated or made certain; and that DNR has not and cannot perform its legally mandated due diligence under these circumstances.” The letters were signed by Sens. Cathy Giessel, R-Anchorage, Bill Wielechowski, D-Anchorage, Forrest Dunbar, D-Anchorage, Matt Claman, D-Anchorage, and Scott Kawasaki, D-Fairbanks, all members of the multi-partisan Senate majority coalition. The five of the seven committee members raised its concerns to DNR during an extended public comment period which ended Sep. 14. The state’s proposal garnered more than 2,100 comments, according to department officials. A spokesperson for DNR declined an interview request to address the concerns raised by senators about the public benefit use. In an emailed statement, DNR spokesperson Lorraine Henry noted AIDEA’s status as a public corporation and directed questions about potential developments to AIDEA. She said the department will be reviewing all public comments before making a decision. “Any final decision will address feedback from the public, agencies, and legislature,” she wrote. AIDEA officials denied an interview request on the proposed development and the senators’ concerns, but forwarded several letters by executive director Randy Ruaro on the proposal. He wrote that AIDEA ownership “creates flexibility” for the Mat-Su Borough and the organization will collaborate with a variety of user groups before committing to projects. “The goal is not to impose a single concept on nearly 20,000 acres. It is to identify which ground is suitable for development, which should remain a buffer or stewardship area, which access routes must be protected, and where local ownership makes better sense,” he wrote in a letter to Mat-Su legislators. Possible data centers under debate In the proposal, DNR said that the project could host a variety of projects, “including but not limited to:” a logistics hub adjacent to the Alaska Railroad, energy or utility projects, gravel or rock mining, manufacturing or data centers. The agency says AIDEA seeks to acquire the land to “catalyze private investment and create durable jobs for Mat-Su residents.” Local lawmakers representing the Mat-Su region say they support the development if it is what the community wants. The group of senators with the Resources Committee said DNR must ensure state lands are used for public benefit under the law, and they were “not satisfied” DNR had performed an adequate review of proposed projects. That includes negative consequences of potential data centers — their energy and water demands, and environmental and community impacts including noise pollution. Data centers have come under intense scrutiny and public criticism nationwide as technology companies have constructed the facilities to house servers or IT infrastructure to store or manage data running to digital applications and services. Consumers are angry at rising energy bills, and concerned about environmental impacts, including water use. Southcentral Alaska, including the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, relies on natural gas for most of its energy needs. If an energy-hungry data center is built, it could drastically increase demand where supplies are already insufficient for existing demand. “We do not want to see our state residents and small businesses forced to compete with private data centers for supply of natural gas or their utility bills driven sky-high, anytime soon or into the future,” the senators wrote. But AIDEA officials have denied there are plans to build data centers, saying they are a possibility, but that no actual projects have been approved or confirmed. “Let me be clear. There is no data center project planned, nor has one ever been discussed with a project proponent,” Ruaro wrote in a letter to DNR. Ruaro said there have been efforts by China and Democrats to oppose data center developments “for political gain.” He said energy and water use concerns are valid but do not apply to the proposed land transfer. Ruaro said that the state holding public lands generates no income, and AIDEA has the tools to lease lands and finance eligible projects, as well as work with local cities and boroughs on development projects. In a letter to Mat-Su legislators, he said any development project will only occur with input from surrounding communities. “Local community needs will be prioritized,” he wrote. Anchorage Republican Sen. Cathy Giessel, chair of the Senate Resources Committee, said in an interview she hears regularly from constituents who have concerns about data centers being developed in Alaska. Plus, with a looming gas shortage in Southcentral Alaska, she is concerned about any potential data centers’ energy demands. “We are struggling right now to make sure we have energy,” she said in a Friday interview. “This seems terribly inappropriate.” Republican Sen. George Rauscher and Republican Rep. Kevin McCabe, whose districts include the parcel under dispute, told the Alaska Beacon that they support what the local community wants for the land. McCabe, in an interview Tuesday, said he was frustrated with members of the Senate Resources Committee’s opposition to the proposal. He wrote a letter responding to the committee members and argued AIDEA ownership is beneficial in promoting economic development and boosting much-needed revenues for local services. “It makes little sense to block opportunities for jobs, investment, and taxable development before the people who actually live here have even decided what they want,” he said. McCabe said he’s not concerned about data centers, and any construction would be subject to all local and state regulations. “As far as a data center, I could care less,” he said. “It could be a horse farm. It could be a grain field, whatever brings money, whatever business brings money to the Borough coffers, so that the property taxes don’t go up or a gas tax doesn’t go up.” Meanwhile, the nearby Houston city council voted unanimously last month to oppose the land transfer. It also introduced a two-year moratorium on the construction of new data centers to be heard at a meeting on Oct. 8. On Tuesday, the Mat-Su Borough Assembly unanimously opposed the proposed land transfer to AIDEA and called for “more appropriate” land for development projects in the Point McKenzie and West Susitna regions. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Alaska Beacon
	NEST Cafe harvest meal fundraiser set for Sept. 30 in East Moline The fundraiser helps raise about a tenth of NEST's annual budget at a time when demand for food is only growing. NEST is the QC's only pay-what-you-can restaurant.
	FestivALL Muscatine will take over 2nd Street in Muscatine Downtown Muscatine will transform into a full‑scale festival zone as FestivALL Muscatine takes over Second Street on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 1-7 p.m. Hosted by Crossroads, Inc., this premier outdoor celebration brings live rock‑and‑roll tribute acts, family activities, and local vendors together to raise vital funds for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Major street closures [...]
	Families of Arkansas children with disabilities say more action needed on waitlist From left: Disability advocate Paige McCammon addresses a rally at the Arkansas Capitol urging Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders to clear the waitlist for supportive living services while Arkansas Support Network CEO Syard Evans, Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Colt Shelby and disability advocate Blake Landers listen on Sept. 16, 2026. (Photo by Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate)Families of Arkansas children with disabilities packed the Old Supreme Court room at the state Capitol on Wednesday and urged Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders to take further action toward clearing a waiting list for supportive services. More than 2,400 Arkansas families are waiting for a Medicaid waiver that will help them meet their children’s complex medical and non-medical needs. A maximum of 8,233 Arkansans can receive supportive services from the waiver, and many families spend years on the waitlist. Sanders announced Tuesday that the Department of Human Services will work to provide supportive living services to families on the waitlist starting in January. Paige McCammon said at Wednesday’s rally that she appreciated Sanders’ effort, which came after weeks of social media posts from her and other parents sharing stories of their children’s needs. “This was the moment Arkansas said, ‘Enough.’ This was the moment that a small group changed history, and Governor Sanders, you have a huge opportunity to help us change that,” said McCammon, whose son Turner has severe epilepsy and a neurodegenerative condition. Sanders, a Republican, was not present at the rally. Her two opponents for reelection, Democratic state Sen. Fred Love and Libertarian Colt Shelby, were both present and among the speakers. Democratic state Sen. Fred Love of Mabelvale, who is challenging Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders in November’s election, and Little Rock Democratic Rep. Denise Ennett, whose son receives supportive living services for his disabilities via a Medicaid waiver, attend a rally at the Arkansas Capitol urging Sanders to clear the waitlist for the waiver on Sept. 16, 2026. (Photo by Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate) McCammon and other parents continued to ask Sanders to convene a special legislative session to address the waitlist. Tamerah Cooper, whose son Maceo has a neurodegenerative disorder, called the waiting families’ needs “an unbiased issue.” “I speak for the children deteriorating while they wait,” Cooper said. “I speak for the caregivers who are not paid for the work they do, but they do it out of love. I speak for the parents who have to go to work worrying if their child’s needs will be met.” Families on the waitlist can receive most of the services available to people on the waiver, but one of the few exceptions and the one most requested is supportive living services, or affordable in-home care for people with disabilities. Sanders said Tuesday that it should cost about $17 million for the state’s managed-care Medicaid program to provide supportive living services to more families by January. Sanders “will continue to look at options to improve services across the state,” her spokesperson Sam Dubke said Wednesday. Her immediate predecessor, fellow Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson, directed $37.6 million toward disability support services in an effort to clear the waitlist in 2021. More than 3,000 people were waiting at the time, and all received services by 2025. Syard Evans, CEO of the disability advocacy group Arkansas Support Network, noted that caregivers are being paid the same rates they were in 2018 when the managed care program for Arkansans with disabilities began. A Department of Human Services study last year showed that supportive living services cost 23% more than what the insurers reimburse. Waitlist, policy changes stir worries among families of Arkansans with disabilities The law mandating the study also required the state to increase reimbursement rates, and Evans said those rates are expected to go into effect Jan. 1. “My fear is that it’s too late for many providers and people,” Evans said. “We have seen colleagues close their waiver programs and stop providing supported living services.” Dr. Hannah Lewis, a pediatric neurologist whose patients include Turner McCammon, said her patients often struggle to implement their treatment plans because they don’t have enough equipment, respite or insurance coverage. “I have seen parents lose jobs, go without sleep, and lose their financial security to pay for bills or stable housing,” Lewis said. “I have seen the strain this places on marriages and on siblings, and despite all of these challenges, their goal remains simple: to keep their child at home, where they are known, loved, and cared for by their family.” Courtesy of Arkansas Advocate
	Iowa Quad Cities communities work to restore Duck Creek flood monitoring Several Iowa communities are working to install 10 stream sensors along Duck Creek after a river gauge was removed in 2025.
	Rising oil prices also resulting in higher oil change costs A local dealership said customers are seeing a small spike in price when it comes to oil changes.
	Rock Island aldermen pass compromise liquor ordinance for downtown The ordinance restricts single-serving alcohol sales in the downtown liquor control district before 5 p.m., while allowing some packaged alcohol sales, including six-packs, before 5 p.m.
	15 cultural groups form Muscatine Cultural Alliance More than 15 cultural organizations have united as the Muscatine Cultural Alliance. Dedicated to the performing and visual arts, place-making, and our local history, the organizations will join together to hold the Cultural Alliance Celebration: Volunteer Recognition & Fundraiser on Thursday, Oct. 15, a news release says. The celebration will take place at the National [...]
	Flood Watch for Quad Cities early Thursday Another round of heavy rain is looking likely for the Quad Cities late Wednesday night and early Thursday. 1-2" of rain could fall and some flooding is not out of the question. So, the NWS has issued a Flood Watch for most of our area, including Rock Island County in Illinois and Scott County in [...]
	Sand, Lahn offer differing visions in KWQC interviews Democrat Rob Sand and Republican Zach Lahn both say Iowans still aren’t feeling enough relief in their day-to-day lives.
	Two Iowa Republicans break with party on Iran war vote Six months into the war in Iran, two of Iowa’s Republican members of Congress voted for the first time to try to end it.
	Here's why an Arizona medical examiner is working to track heat-related deaths No one across the U.S. is consistently tracking climate-fueled deaths. One medical examiner has a new protocol on heat-deaths.
	Man airlifted after crash in rural Galena Officials believe the 80-year-old victim suffered a medical emergency, causing him to drive into a ditch and strike a tree off Thunder Bay Road.
	Centenarians at Hammond-Henry Long Term Care Living Center are rooted in Geneseo history The history of small towns is usually rich but sometimes forgotten. At Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo, several people in their long-term living center can speak firsthand to how Geneseo became the town it is now. Whether how street names were picked or the origin of a popular park, history lives within the center and their [...]
	Man airlifted with severe injuries after rural Galena crash caused by medical emergency A California man was airlifted out of rural Galena on Wednesday after a crash caused by a suspected medical emergency.
	NextGen 5K Run/Walk for Mental Health Awareness returns to Muscatine on Sept. 19 The 5th annual NextGen 5K Run/Walk for Mental Health Awareness will return to Muscatine on Saturday, Sept. 19.
	Moline-Coal Valley School District families invited to inaugural community meal The Sept. 24 event is free to attend. There will be activities for kids, and families can take home a box of non-perishable food as well.
	House passes Russia sanctions, sending bill named for Lindsey Graham to Trump's desk The legislation was named for the late South Carolina Republican. It gives the president authority to impose tariffs on top importers of oil and natural gas from Russia, such as China and India.
	Quad Cities' only pay-what-you-can restaurant hosting harvest meal fundraiser NEST Cafe is inviting folks to the fundraising event on Wednesday, Sept. 30, featuring food, music and storytelling.
	Earl Hanson Elementary School cafeteria gets a new mural Students helped color in the mural, which will be slowly filled in over the course of two weeks.
	Man with dementia reported missing from Farmington, Illinois According to police, David "Barry" Coulter's wife last saw him in their home's kitchen around 3 a.m. Tuesday.
	McCarty’s Corner Farm to host 7th National Alpaca Farm Days Sept. 26-27 The family-owned farm in Eldridge is hosting their 7th annual National Alpaca Farm Days on Sept. 26-27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
	Infiltrator Water Technologies plans new Davenport facility Infiltrator Water Technologies, a leading manufacturer of products for the decentralized wastewater industry, plans to develop a new manufacturing facility dedicated to the production of their EZflow product line in Davenport, according to a news release. EZflow products are a green building alternative to traditional septic drain field and drainage systems. On Wednesday, the Davenport [...]
	Smithfield employees exposed to amputation risks, dangerous chemicals: OSHA records Employees at Smithfield Foods in Monmouth have been exposed to amputation risks and dangerous chemicals, according to OSHA violation records.
	Take a tour through history at the Hamburg Historic Home Tour Take a tour through history in Davenport's Hamburg Historic District. Marion Meginnis joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the Hamburg Historic District Home Tour. For more information, click here.
	MercyOne Genesis breaks ground on $2M family medicine expansion MercyOne Genesis held a groundbreaking on Wednesday, Sept. 16, to celebrate expansion and renovation of its Family Medical Center, at 1345 W. Central Park Ave., Davenport.
	MercyOne Genesis breaks ground on Family Medical Center expansion MercyOne Genesis is expanding and renovating it’s Family Medical Center.
	House holds billionaire Leon Black in contempt of Congress Billionaire investor Leon Black refused to appear before the committee investigating convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein for a deposition. Now it's up to the Department of Justice whether to pursue criminal charges.
	5th-grader Kid Captain to lead Iowa State against Bowling Green A 5th grade Cyclone fan will get to go onto the field with his family as Iowa State plays on Saturday.
	2 injured, 1 airlifted after Dubuque County crash on Wednesday morning According to an Iowa State Patrol crash report, a 2013 Ford Edge was traveling south on Cox Springs Road when they failed to yield at the Highway 20 intersection.
	NextGen Motors of Muscatine raises mental health awareness through 5K NextGen Motors of Muscatine is hosting the fifth annual NextGen 5k on Saturday, Sept. 19 to raise awareness for mental health.
	Trump administration plans ideological warning signs for Smithsonian The Interior Secretary says the move is necessary to combat what he calls ideological bias.
	Student Hunger Drive returns with Million Meals Match for second year The 2026 Student Hunger Drive begins Sept. 21.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: SHERRY GRAY, 50, 5’1”, 130 pounds, brown eyes, black hair. Wanted by Scott County Sheriff’s Office for sex offender registration violations. MICHAEL NELSON, 38, [...]
	Fed rate hike not a reason to panic: NelsonCorp The Federal Reserve announced today that they are raising interest rates for the first time in three years. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System released a statement about today’s decision. “The Federal Open Market Committee approved the following statement for release by a 12 – 0 vote. The Committee decided to raise [...]
	3 Quad Cities-area men sentenced in drug trafficking case Prosecutors said that between late 2021 and March of last year, the trio distributed drugs across the region.
	‘The potential is there to be able to find people quickly.’: QC Missing Persons Network weighs in on flock camera pause Officials with the Quad Cities Missing Persons Network say Flock cameras have the potential to find people quickly, after Moline announce a pause to the program.
	Former FCI Thomson correctional officer sentenced for sexually abusing 2 inmates A federal jury in Rockford convicted 42-year-old Danny L. Spyker of two counts of knowingly engaging in sexual acts with inmates.
	EU rolls out red carpet to Canada as first 'associate member' The EU's top official backs Carney's push for Canada to become the bloc's first "associate member," as Brussels seeks to deepen ties amid pressure from the US
	EU rolls out red carpet to Canada to become its first 'associate member' The EU's top official backs Carney's push for Canada to become the bloc's first "associate member," as Brussels seeks to deepen ties amid pressure from the US
	Jesse Ray receives Corps of Engineers Planning Excellence Award A Rock Island resident is being honored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with its Planning Excellence Award. St. Paul District environmental specialist Jesse Ray has been awarded the 2025 Planning Excellence Award. The Planning Excellence Award, or Planner of the Year Award, recognizes staff who exhibit exceptional job performance. Ray was honored for [...]
	The high cost of low-cost financial advice from AI tools The high cost of low-cost financial advice from AI toolsNew research from Stanford Graduate School of Business finds that financial advice from artificial intelligence chatbots can push consumers toward sounder, life-cycle-based financial decisions, like broader diversification and bigger savings buffers. But the quality of that advice depends heavily on who's asking and what they're asking, and for some groups the outcomes were worse, not better. Financial advisors are seeing this play out in real time with their own clients, who bring AI recommendations to meetings, with some advisors raising concerns that their clients might not be getting the full picture.Jump examined how financial advisors are seeing trends of clients using AI to make financial decisions, and how some AI tools can potentially be beneficial for both advisors and their clients.The Stanford researchers collected real prompts from real people, then built a simulation in which 1,000 "virtual people" followed advice doled out by general-purpose large language models (LLMs), not tools built specifically for financial advice. The researchers simulated life events like market, income, and job changes for each subject, then compared outcomes across simulations, slicing and dicing their data across factors like gender and financial literacy rates. They found that prompts simulating low financial literacy led to advice that left the subjects nearly $50,000 poorer by age 60. Prompts from women skewed toward words like "family," "grocery," "credit," and "loan"; while men's skewed toward "portfolio," "equity," "strategy," and "crypto,” resulting in advice that left women nearly $60,000 poorer by retirement.What advisors are seeingAdvisors are seeing a similar trend—that users' own financial literacy can impact the quality of advice they get from chatbots.“Clients often don’t know which facts are financially relevant,” said Sarah Cicero, a financial advisor based in Maryland. “They may not know what information the AI needs in order to produce a complete analysis.”Cicero says that consumer-facing AI tools “lack context, judgment, and coordination,” and sees them as more generalists than as specialists. In one example with a customer, “the AI addressed general benefits of Roth conversions, like tax-free future growth and required minimum distributions, but it didn’t fully evaluate the timing of the strategy,” which could result in higher taxes or Medicare premiums. Getting it right requires a full understanding of the client’s income.Another Maryland-based financial planner, Matthew Koppelman, agreed that LLMs “have a hard time generating the most current information. If you don’t know what you’re looking for, you won’t spot the mistake.” Even then, some clients still prefer their AI-generated responses to their planners’ guidance – an experience that can be frustrating “when someone takes their search results as gospel rather than a starting point for a discussion.”Though the advice might be flawed or lacking nuance, these clients are still able to bounce their ideas off a trusted expert. The same cannot be said for those who, like the simulated study participants, skip the human advisor and put all their eggs in the LLM basket.Not all AI is bad, but experts warn people should be carefulThat’s not to say that people who use AI are sure to fall flat on their faces. Danielle Darling, a St. Louis-based financial advisor, said that "AI can be incredibly helpful for learning concepts and generating questions,” though she concedes that it can also confidently hallucinate. The Stanford study also found that users were overall pushed toward better behaviors, including increasing their savings, investing in stocks, and creating cash buffers – but ultimately, the quality of the questions mattered. Low financial literacy resulted in poorer outcomes.The Stanford findings aren’t an indictment of the use of AI in financial planning, but they underscore the importance of context, guardrails, and judgment. An expert can shed light on a bad assumption or ask follow-up questions, which is why having access to quality financial advice is so important.Where advisor-grade AI is differentIn fact, the use of safe AI tools in financial services and wealth management can actually empower advisors to focus on conversations instead of taking notes or when they can look back at their data to surface insights that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.Unlike generalist LLMs used by consumers, the trusted tools advisors use are specifically constructed around financial planning and regulatory requirements. This means that when advisor AI surfaces patterns in data and helps advisors do their jobs better, it’s doing so with an expert lens and with a human in the loop. Though some consumers might opt to take their money queries straight to AI and end up worse for it, the right AI in the right hands can actually improve outcomes for both advisors and their customers alike.This story was produced by Jump and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	2 injured in 2 vehicle crash in Dubuque County The crash remains under investigation.
	Fitch unveils plan for how Mississippi will spend $189M Meta settlement Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch has unveiled a plan for how Mississippi can spend $189 million of national Meta lawsuit funds, directing over $18 million a year to be split among three state agencies for the next decade. The plan arrived in a consent decree that lawyers for the state filed Monday in Hinds Chancery Court. Fitch drafted the plan as Meta, the corporation that runs Facebook and Instagram, prepares to pay billions of dollars to states after attorneys general accused the company of endangering children across the country with their social media platforms. States argued the company turned its platforms into “addiction machines,” targeting children during vulnerable life stages. Despite the settlement, Meta and other technology giants have denied the allegations against them and that they have any liability to states. The California-based company is represented in Mississippi by the powerful and politically connected law firm Butler Snow. The settlement agreement allows the attorney general to set the parameters for spending the money. Legal experts, mental health advocates and state lawmakers told Mississippi Today that Fitch’s plan could impact the health of children in the state for years to come. Here is what’s in it: How the money will be spent Mississippi will be able to spend its portion of the $17-billion national settlement over 10 years. The state’s share currently stands at $189 million, but it could go up to $270 million if the other tech companies ensnared in litigation — Snap, TikTok and YouTube — also agree to settlements with states’ attorneys general. The plan Fitch’s office filed directs $18.8 million in payments to be made per annual installment from Meta. That works out to just under $189 million over 10 years, which is the whole settlement. Starting in January 2027, Fitch set these parameters for the spending each year over the next decade: $6.8 million to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health for “mental health programs targeting but not limited to youth 12 through 18 years of age, including through cooperative programs with Mississippi K-12 schools.” For the remainder of 2026, Fitch directed all payments to be made directly to this department for the same purpose. $6 million to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for “new playgrounds, parks, sporting courts or fields, or other outdoor recreation facilities, or improvements thereof, across the State of Mississippi, including through cooperative programs with Mississippi K-12 schools and local governments, targeting but not limited to youth 12 through 18 years of age.” $6 million to the Mississippi Department of Education for “afterschool and school break learning opportunities and programming across the State of Mississippi, in cooperation with the Mississippi Department of Human Services.” Meta will pay Mississippi an additional $6.1 million from a connected settlement involving Cambridge Analytica, a now-defunct British political consulting firm that allegedly harvested the personal data of tens of millions of American Facebook users without their consent before the 2016 federal election. All the money from that part of the settlement agreement will go to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health for youth mental health programs, Fitch’s office told Mississippi Today. All of the money will be deposited into the Attorney General of Mississippi Contingent Fund, a special state fund that holds money the AG’s office receives from legal judgments. How much control will lawmakers have on the spending? Although the national settlement assigns spending decisions to attorneys general such as Fitch, the Mississippi Constitution gives the Legislature authority to spend most public money. Lawmakers have asserted that authority with both tobacco and opioid settlement funds. In her consent decree, Fitch decided which agencies will get the settlement money, how much money they’re getting and what sort of programs the agencies must use. But her office said the lawmakers have the authority to determine what specific programs will get funded. “The Legislature still directs how the money will be spent, and we will work with them on possible funding ideas in the upcoming session,” MaryAsa Lee, a spokesperson for Fitch, told Mississippi Today. “Ultimately, the Legislature decides how the funds will be appropriated.” Lawmakers could, for example, create new mental health programs targeting children between 12 and 18, or fund new playgrounds to be operated by the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Fitch’s office added. Fitch’s plan also says the “parameters and structure” of the spending decisions made by lawmakers should be established “in consultation with the Governor of Mississippi and the Mississippi Attorney General.” Fitch’s office told Mississippi Today the consultation will involve meetings between lawmakers and the offices of the governor and attorney general about future legislation appropriating the settlement money. The legislation will ultimately not require any sort of specific written approval from either the governor or attorney general, they added. But the provision gives Fitch influence over the specific spending decision lawmakers could make in the future. Fitch, a Republican, is running for governor and has touted her efforts to protect children from large technology companies. In the upcoming legislative session beginning in January, there will be two initial payments the Legislature can spend, Fitch’s office said. State has a youth mental health crisis Under the settlement, Meta also agreed to implement new safety standards on Facebook and Instagram. Those standards include setting daily time limits on platform use by children, restricting children’s access during school hours, requiring age verification and creating a range of content controls. Some experts have said the required platform changes are drawn from research findings, while others have questioned whether the changes will be effective. Mississippi continues to face a youth mental health crisis. Roughly 31,000 children in the state between the ages of 12 and 17 have seriously considered suicide, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness in 2025. The alliance also found that Mississippi only has about one school psychologist for every 10,000 public school students. The consent decree filed by Fitch’s office said Meta violated the Mississippi Consumer Protection Act by designing its social media platforms to “entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens.” Meta “misled the public about the dangers of its platforms and ignored the damages these platforms have caused to the mental and physical well-being of Mississippi’s youth,” the lawsuit argued. Courtesy of Mississippi Today
	River Bandits pitcher David Shields named 2026 Midwest League Pitcher of the Year Quad Cities River Bandits pitcher David Shield has been named the 2026 Midwest League Pitcher of the Year.
	Putnam partners with the Smithsonian on major Native American exhibit The Putnam Museum and Science Center is opening a unique collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, with “Legacy of the Land: Treaties and the Shaping of America,” a new traveling exhibition.
	Spanberger declares state of emergency as drought strains Virginia farmers Dairy cows graze in Stanley, Va. (Photo by Parker Michels-Boyce/Virginia Mercury)Virginia farmers struggling with drought-damaged pastures will be able to receive larger hay deliveries under a state of emergency declared by Gov. Abigail Spanberger Wednesday. Spanberger’s Executive Order 21 temporarily exempts over-width hay deliveries from certain transportation restrictions, allowing hay to reach farmers more quickly to feed their livestock. Persistent drought conditions that began last winter have led to an estimated hay shortfall totaling 500,000 tons. “This waiver will help us move critical hay resources more quickly so farms can prepare for the months ahead, feed livestock, and sustain their operations,” Spanberger said in a statement. Although drought conditions have improved in some parts of the state since earlier this year, some regions have experienced losses of up to 70% losses in hay yields. Southern Virginia along the North Carolina border remains under emergency drought conditions, according to the Department of Environmental Quality. The dry conditions have left pastures without enough grass for cattle, forcing farmers to tap into their hay supplies earlier in the grazing season than usual. That means they must purchase more hay heading into winter. “Extreme drought conditions across the commonwealth have left cattle producers without the forage stocks needed to support many of our herds this winter,” Virginia Cattlemen’s Association Executive Director Brandon Reeves said in a statement. While the order grants exemptions for over-width deliveries, gross and axle weight limits remain in effect. “Farmers are very resilient and innovative, and this transportation waiver will shorten the timeline for hay deliveries and also save significant trucking costs for producers purchasing supplemental hay as part of their overall drought management strategy,” Dan Goerlich and Stephanie Cornnell with the Virginia Cooperative Extension said in a statement. The emergency declaration allows state agencies to coordinate support for farmers, implement emergency plans and grant temporary waivers as drought conditions continue. The executive order took effect immediately and will remain in place for 45 days unless amended or rescinded. The over-width waiver will begin Oct. 1 and last for 30 days. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Virginia Mercury
	Davenport man charged after 18-month-old overdoses on THC A Davenport man is facing charges in Scott County District Court for his alleged connection to an 18-month-old child overdosing on THC wax in June.
	Iowa Republicans in battleground House races vote to halt the Iran war Reps. Zach Nunn and Mariannette Miller-Meeks voted for the resolution with five other Republicans on Tuesday after previously voting against it.
	Junior Theatre moves to St. Ambrose’s Galvin Fine Arts Center The Junior Theater will kick off its 75th season at St. Ambrose with a performance of “Charlotte’s Web.”
	Black Hawk College kicks off 80th anniversary with new mascot Black Hawk College kicked off its 80th anniversary with an ‘80s-themed celebration and introduction of the college’s new mascot.
	Bettendorf marking Healthiest State Walk with Kiwanis Park events Thousands of Iowans will take a 30 minute walk in three weeks to promote a statewide initiative about being active and connecting with the community. Residents can visit Kiwanis Park, 4223 Greenbrier Drive in Bettendorf, on October 7 from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m., where the city’s Parks & Recreation Department is hosting an event for [...]
	Fact Check: ‘terrifying’ sex offender ad in Iowa Attorney General race An attack ad claims a candidate for Iowa Attorney General blocked tracking sex offenders but the full legislative record undermines the ad’s narrative.
	Deceased infant found in trash bag at Iowa child care facility The Perry Police Department is investigating after officers found a dead newborn Tuesday evening.
	5 takeaways from the Latin Grammy nominations The list includes veteran hitmakers, a fresh crop of best new artist nominees and a 19-year-old folk prodigy.
	Officials: Erie, Illinois man charged with taking minor across state lines for illegal sexual activity An Erie, Illinois man is charged with child exploitation offenses, including the transportation of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and online enticement of a minor.
	Congress is under pressure to act on AI — here's what that could look like Lawmakers are expressing broader willingness to regulate AI development, but the path forward may not be a quick one.
	DOJ charges Russian agents with plotting attacks, including in US The indictment says the defendants belong to a network that "is one arm of the Russian Federation's apparatus used to carry out external attacks" worldwide.
	Residents can still vote by mail: Henry County Clerk Henry County is making sure residents know that they can still vote by mail. A news release from Henry County Clerk Barb Link said they realize that voters may have questions about voting by mail. “The Supreme Court’s recent decision blocking the U.S. Postal Service’s unlawful rule means voting by mail will continue.” Voters can [...]
	How you can help birds migrating at night find their way through the Quad Cities River Action is turning off the lights on the Centennial Bridge until November so migrating birds don't get lost.
	A tumultuous congressional primary season closes with record departures and defeats Already, close to 100 lawmakers who started this Congress will not be around for the next one, according to an NPR analysis, driven by record-setting retirements and primary defeats.
	5 currency pairs to watch in September as the US Dollar stalls after Jackson Hole 5 currency pairs to watch in September as the US Dollar stalls after Jackson HoleFollowing Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s keynote address at the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium on August 28, 2026, global financial conditions have tightened amid a sharp repricing toward a more hawkish Fed funds futures market, OANDA reports.Key takeawaysThe U.S. Dollar Index remains range-bound despite a hawkish Fed repricing, shifting the potentially stronger macro risk/reward opportunities towards FX crosses.AUD/NZD and GBP/JPY retain bullish configurations, with both rebounding from their 200-day moving averages and holding above key technical support levels.EUR/AUD, EUR/GBP and CHF/JPY retain bearish technical biases, with downside momentum and key resistance levels limiting their respective recoveries.U.S. Dollar Index trapped in a sideways rangeStressing that “the Fed’s predominant focus right now should be on prices” and pointing out that 54% of PCE basket components are still compounding above 3%, Warsh effectively lifted September FOMC’s 25 basis points rate hike odds to 67% (up from around 30% pre-speech) (see Fig. 1). Credit: OANDA, Source: CME website This hawkish shift drove a bear flattening across the U.S. Treasury yield curve. However, the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) has entered a potential broad sideways chop near key resistance at 100.54 (see Fig. 2), caught between higher U.S. short-end yields and offsetting bets on tighter policy across select G10 central banks.The two-year spread premium between the U.S. Treasury note and an equal-weighted average of the sovereign bonds from Germany, the U.K., Japan, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, and China has remained below the 1.79% resistance (see Fig. 2). Credit: OANDA, Source: TradingView Hence, the most potentially compelling macro risk/reward opportunities over the next multi-week horizon lie squarely in FX crosses rather than direct USD pairs.AUD/NZD – Rebounded from 200-day MA with bullish MACD Credit: OANDA, Source: TradingView After a 12-week decline of 2.8% from its 52-week high of 1.2287 printed on May 27, 2026 to the August 20, 2026 low, the AUD/NZD has staged a rebound after a retest on the key 200-day moving average and traded back above the 50-day moving average since August 27, 2026.In addition, the daily MACD trend indicator has staged a similar bullish breakout from a three-month descending resistance on August 14, 2026 and trended upwards above its centreline since August 27, 2026 (see Fig. 3).These observations suggest that the major uptrend phase from the April 22, 2025 low is likely intact.Watch the 1.1940 key medium-term pivotal support; a clearance above 1.2320 intermediate resistance sees the next medium-term resistances at 1.2630 and 1.2930.On the other hand, a daily close below 1.1940 exposes the next medium-term supports at 1.1665 and 1.1414.EUR/AUD – Potential bearish consolidation below 1.6590 Credit: OANDA, Source: TradingView Since the March 11, 2026 swing low of 1.6135, the price action of EUR/AUD has been consolidating within a potential six-month bearish continuation pattern, known as a “Descending Triangle,” below the key 200-day moving average (see Fig. 4).The daily RSI momentum indicator has already staged a bearish breakdown below its former ascending support, indicating a potential revival of bearish momentum.A break and a daily close below the “Descending Triangle” range support of 1.6135 exposes the next medium-term supports at 1.5850 and 1.5300.However, a clearance and a daily close above the 1.6590 key medium-term pivotal resistance (also near the 200-day moving average) would see the next medium-term resistances at 1.6847 and 1.7290.EUR/GBP – Oscillating within a nine-month downtrend Credit: OANDA, Source: TradingView The EUR/GBP has continued to oscillate within a medium-term descending channel since the November 14, 2025 high of 0.8865, and the daily RSI momentum indicator remains capped below a descending resistance line around the 58 level (see Fig. 5).These observations suggest that the nine-month downtrend in EUR/GBP remains intact. Watch the 0.8625 key medium-term pivotal resistance (also close to the 200-day moving average), and a break below 0.8530 intermediate support exposes the medium-term supports at 0.8455 and 0.8370.On the flip side, a clearance and a daily close above 0.8625 sees the next medium-term resistances at 0.8735 and 0.8790.GBP/JPY – Holding above 200-day moving average Credit: OANDA, Source: TradingView The recent 4.6% decline in GBP/JPY from its 52-week high of 219.61, printed on July 15, 2026, and reinforced by the U.S.-Japan joint FX intervention to prop up the Japanese yen in late July 2026, stalled at the key 200-day moving average on August 3, 2026 (see Fig. 6).GBP/JPY has staged a rebound and traded back above the 50-day moving average. So far, it has held above the key 200-day moving average since May 22, 2026, suggesting that the major uptrend phase from the April 9, 2025 low of 184.38 is likely intact.Watch the 212.40 key medium-term pivotal support (also close to the 200-day moving average); a clearance above 219.61intermediate resistance, sees the next medium-term resistances at 223.00 and 229.65.However, a daily close below 212.40 would negate the bullish tone, exposing the next medium-term supports at 209.63/207.68 and 200.28.CHF/JPY – Below 200-day moving average with bearish momentum Credit: OANDA, Source: TradingView CHF/JPY has traded below the key 200-day moving average since July 30, 2026, and the daily RSI momentum indicator remains below a key descending resistance at around the 56 level, indicating bearish momentum (see Fig. 7).Watch the 199.20 key medium-term pivotal resistance, and a break below the 196.60 intermediate support (also the 20-day moving average) exposes the next medium-term supports at 192.65 and 189.05/187.60.On the other hand, a clearance and a daily close above 199.20 sees the next medium-term resistance at 201.55 and even the current all-time high area of 204.00/204.43.This article and its contents are intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered trading advice. Forex trading is high-risk. Losses may exceed deposits.This story was produced by OANDA and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Police: Child overdosed on THC, Davenport man charged Officials said the child tested positive for a large amount of THC in his system, which caused him to overdose.
	KWQC and KCRG to partner on Iowa’s 1st Congressional District debate KWQC and KCRG will partner to host a live, one hour debate between Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Christina Bohannan.
	How small businesses are turning energy upgrades into tax savings in 2026 How small businesses are turning energy upgrades into tax savings in 2026You replaced your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system last year, upgraded to modern LED lighting throughout your shop, and maybe even added solar panels to the roof to improve efficiency. What you might not realize is that the federal government set aside real money to reward exactly those decisions, and small businesses are very much included. Energy tax credits are not just for homeowners or Fortune 500 companies with sustainability departments. If you own or lease a commercial space, or have made qualifying energy-efficient building improvements, there are credits and tax deductions worth knowing about before you file your 2026 federal income tax return.The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, locked in and expanded many of these federal incentives, although some personal credits have expired, with business-related credits set to follow in 2026. 1-800Accountant broke down the main federal energy tax credits available to small businesses who qualify and how to claim them correctly if you do.Key TakeawaysThe Investment Tax Credit (ITC) lets businesses claim 30% of the cost of qualifying solar and clean energy systems installed at a business location.The Section 179D deduction allows building owners to deduct up to $5.94 per square foot for energy-efficient commercial building improvements, including HVAC, energy-efficient windows, lighting, and insulation.Federal tax credits reduce your actual tax bill dollar-for-dollar, making it more valuable than a deduction of the same dollar amount.Business energy credits flow through IRS Form 3800, General Business Credit, on your business tax return.Credits apply to the same tax year in which the system is placed in service, not to the year you sign the contract or make the purchase.Professional tax planning helps you stagger improvements across tax years while comparing credits against depreciation options, which will affect your total tax outcome.Energy Tax Credits vs. Deductions: Why It Matters for Your BusinessBefore getting into the specific credits your business may be able to use, it helps to understand why credits are worth more than deductions. A deduction lowers your taxable income, which indirectly reduces what you owe. A credit directly reduces your actual tax bill, dollar for dollar.For small businesses with modest tax liability, that distinction matters. A $5,000 credit is worth exactly $5,000 off your bill. A $5,000 deduction might only save you $1,100 or $1,500, depending on your tax bracket.The Main Energy Tax Credits Available to Small Businesses in 2026These are the credits most likely to apply to your business in 2026, while something like a residential clean energy credit wouldn't. Each has different eligibility rules, dollar limits, and filing requirements, so it pays to understand that before making a claim.The ITC for Solar and Clean EnergyYou may be able to claim credits like the ITC if your business installed:Solar panelsBattery storage systemsFuel cellsOther qualifying clean energy equipmentThe current rate is 30% of the qualifying system's total cost.This credit applies to systems placed in service at your business property. A retail shop, warehouse, office building, or home used partly for business can qualify, provided the system meets IRS standards. The ITC is claimed on IRS Form 3468, Investment Credit, and is reported on IRS Form 3800.Two bonus credits are worth understanding. Systems using domestically produced components may qualify for an additional percentage, and businesses in designated "energy communities" may claim an adder on top of the base 30%. Both require careful documentation to claim successfully.It's also important to understand related construction milestones. If you start on or before July 4, 2026, your project qualifies for the full credit as long as it is placed in service by Dec. 31, 2030. If you start after July 4, the project is eligible if it is placed in service by Dec. 31, 2027. For more information, view the IRS commercial buildings energy efficiency page.The Section 179D Commercial Buildings Energy Efficiency DeductionSection 179D is one of the most valuable and least-discussed tax benefits for small business owners who own or improve commercial property, which will impact energy costs. It allows you to deduct the cost of qualifying energy-efficient improvements, with a maximum of up to $5.94 per square foot for buildings that meet the highest efficiency standards. Deductions are also available for partial compliance.Qualifying improvements include interior lighting systems, HVAC and hot water boilers, heat pump water heaters, central air conditioners, and building envelope upgrades like insulation, exterior windows, and exterior doors. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, the maximum deduction amount and the range of eligible claimants expanded significantly, and those rules carry through 2026. Designers and contractors who work on government-owned or tax-exempt buildings can also claim the deduction, since those entities cannot use it themselves.Keep in mind that Section 179D claims require a certification from a qualified engineer or contractor confirming the energy savings. This is not something you self-certify, so factor that installation cost into your evaluation of smaller projects.Who Qualifies for Business Energy Tax Credits in 2026?Eligibility varies by credit, but a few common requirements apply:The property must be used for business purposes.The system or improvement must meet IRS-defined efficiency standards (which often means relying on manufacturer certifications)Your business must have sufficient tax liability to use the credit, or be able to carry it forward.Pass-through entity owners, including S corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies, can claim these credits on their personal returns through Form 3800. 1-800Accountant The Inflation Reduction Act for small businesses introduced "direct pay" and "transferability" provisions for certain credits. Tax-exempt entities and some small businesses may be able to receive credits as direct cash payments or sell unused credits to another taxpayer. The IRS continues to issue guidance on these provisions, and it is a complex area where professional guidance is worth the investment before moving forward with a claim.How to Claim Energy Tax Credits on Your Business ReturnThe filing process is fairly straightforward once you're familiar with the main steps, but missing any one of them can cause problems and delay the process.Gather all purchase and installation documentation, including invoices and contracts.Confirm that the system or improvement meets IRS efficiency standards. Manufacturer certifications are often required and should be kept with your tax records.Complete the relevant form: IRS Form 3468 for the ITC; Section 179D requires a certification from a qualified engineer or contractor, making recordkeeping a critical ongoing task.Report the credit on IRS Form 3800.Attach the following to your business return: IRS Form 1120, U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return, for C corps; IRS Form 1120-S, U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation, for S corps; IRS Form 1065, U.S. Return of Partnership Income, for partnerships; or Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss from Business (Sole Proprietorship), for sole proprietors.The credit applies to the tax year in which the system is placed in service, not to the year you sign the contract or pay the invoice. This timing detail trips up many filers. If your solar installation was contracted in December 2025 but the system was not operational until February 2026, you claim the credit on your 2026 return.Planning Ahead: Getting the Most from Energy Tax CreditsThese credits reward planning. If you are considering multiple improvements, think about staggering them across tax years.You should also compare the ITC against your depreciation options. When you claim the ITC on a solar system, you must reduce the depreciable basis of the property by 50% of the credit amount. Depending on your situation, a Section 179 expensing election or bonus depreciation might produce a better outcome. Many states also offer energy incentives that stack on top of federal credits, so checking your state's rules before filing can add meaningful savings.What to Watch for in 2026Tax laws can change and often do, and temporary provisions can be made permanent. Verify current IRS rules before claiming any credit or deduction, particularly if you handle your own tax work. For a broader idea of what is available to your business beyond energy, reviewing your possible eligibility for all small business tax credits is a useful starting point.Energy tax credits represent real, dollar-for-dollar savings for small businesses that invest in efficiency, but claiming them correctly requires accurate documentation, an understanding of how they interact with depreciation, and attention to timing.Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I claim the ITC if I lease my business space rather than own the building?Yes, in most cases, you can claim this credit whether you lease or own. The ITC is tied to ownership of the energy system, not ownership of the building. If you purchase and install a qualifying solar system on a leased commercial property and own the system, you can generally claim the credit. You will want a written agreement with your landlord confirming equipment ownership, and reviewing the IRS guidance before proceeding is always a smart step.Does claiming the ITC affect my depreciation deduction for the same property?Yes, and this is one of the most commonly missed details. When you claim the ITC on a qualifying system, you must reduce the depreciable basis of that property by 50% of the credit amount. So if you claim a $30,000 ITC on a $100,000 solar installation, your depreciable basis drops by $15,000. Running both scenarios before filing helps you understand the full tax picture before you commit.What documentation do I need to support a Section 179D deduction?Section 179D requires more paperwork than most deductions. You will need a certification from a qualified engineer or licensed contractor confirming that the improvements meet IRS energy-efficiency standards, prepared using IRS-approved software, and including specific information about the building and projected energy savings. Keeping original invoices, contractor agreements, and efficiency certifications in a secure, centralized location is essential, since the IRS may request them if your return is reviewed.What happens if my energy tax credit exceeds my tax liability for the year?Business energy credits that exceed your current-year tax liability generally can be carried back one year or carried forward up to 20 future years, depending on the specific credit. The General Business Credit rules govern how carrybacks and carryforwards work, and they apply to most business energy credits that flow through Form 3800. Planning your credit timing around years when you expect higher tax liability can make the carryforward more valuable.This story was produced by 1-800Accountant and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	$500,000 in Community Foundation grants awarded to 36 local nonprofits Check out which nonprofits were granted awards here:
	Bettendorf votes to move forward with annexation process Bettendorf voted 5-2 Tuesday to move ahead with the first steps of annexation, though it's not yet clear if enough landowners will support annexation to meet an 80% threshold.
	Iowa school districts receive funding to buy Iowa food Public and private schools across Iowa are receiving funding to purchase Iowa grown and raised food. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced that 125 Iowa public and private schools will receive funding through the Choose Iowa Local Food for Schools Program to purchase Iowa grown and raised food. Each participating school will receive about [...]
	7 insurance mistakes new business owners make in their first year 7 insurance mistakes new business owners make in their first yearWhether it’s skipping coverage until it’s too late or underestimating their financial risk, many first-year business owners share some of the same regrets around business insurance coverage for their new venture.ERGO NEXT conducted research with 501 small business owners this year, and the findings reveal some common insurance mistakes and the wisdom many SMBs wish they’d known earlier.This guide offers quick solutions to these insurance bumps along the road, to help you avoid the most common insurance mistakes small business owners make in their first year.Insurance mistake No. 1: Don’t assume you can skip coverage if it’s not legally required“We’ve seen new owners win a great contract, then learn they do not meet the client’s insurance requirements,” says John Espenschied, an insurance broker with more than 25 years of experience. “That is a rough way to start a Monday.”About 57% of new owners surveyed in the study cited “not legally required” as a reason they don’t currently have business insurance. Many small business owners check with the state and county to see what’s required to start a small business. They register their business name, apply for permits and request an EIN. They see that business insurance is not a legal requirement, so they don’t buy it.But state law isn’t the only yardstick to use for making decisions about small business coverage. Often, lenders, landlords and potential clients are the ones who will require proof of insurance (called a certificate of insurance, or COI) to prove you have general liability insurance or other coverages, and you could miss out on important business opportunities if you don’t have a policy in place.Insurance mistake No. 2: Don’t put off buying insurance until it’s too lateIn the first year, small business owners often make insurance choices in a hurry, usually squeezing it in between a hundred other priorities. Eighty-four percent of small business owners say they prioritized other costs over insurance in the past six months, according to the study. But deferring coverage leaves your business unprotected exactly when cash is tightest.“The biggest mistake is thinking, ‘I’m small, so my risk is small,’” Espenschied says. “A one-person business can still face a very expensive claim.”If, for example, you own a landscaping business, you may think you don’t need insurance because you could replace your tools if you needed to. But what happens if:You injure someone while driving your work truck, and they need serious medical care.Someone passing by a property you’re working on gets hurt by flying debris, and they file a lawsuit against your business.You accidentally damage your client’s property, like breaking an expensive bay window, and you’re asked to cover the costs.You could face steep bills if you’re found responsible for injuries and property damage, not to mention the price of legal assistance.Without the right commercial auto insurance, general liability, or BOP insurance, those costs come out of your own pocket. If you haven’t been in business long, you may not be able to cover them. It’s better to have insurance than regret not having it later.Insurance mistake No. 3: Only buy the coverage you actually needHalf of new business owners in our study said they wish they’d understood their coverage needs sooner, and 23% called the effort “too confusing.”That’s understandable; small business insurance needs vary widely from one type of business to another.“It just depends on what type of business, because they all have different needs,” Espenschied says.For instance, a solo marketing consultant may require general liability insurance and professional liability coverage. But a construction company with a dozen employees and a fleet of heavy equipment could benefit from those policies plus commercial auto, workers’ compensation insurance and tools and equipment coverage. Their exposure to risk could be greater than that of an office-based business owner with no employees. Both businesses could benefit from small business insurance, but their needs are very different.Insurance mistake No. 4: Don’t take insurance advice from AI without a second opinionResearch is an important step for finding the right coverage, and busy new business owners need fast answers. Many use tools like Gemini, ChatGPT and Claude to learn about coverage and understand their insurance needs. In the study, 36% of small businesses said they use AI to explore business insurance options.Many entrepreneurs also use AI to research legal or policy concerns, according to a report about AI adoption among small businesses published by the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.AI research is a good start. But the mistake is trusting your legal and financial protection to artificial intelligence. AI lacks real-time knowledge of current risks and regulations affecting your business. It could even invent policies or coverages that don’t exist.For instance, you might buy a commercial property insurance policy for your ice cream shop based on AI’s recommendations. But if AI didn’t mention that you need an equipment breakdown endorsement for coverage on a freezer failure, you could be at risk.To make sure your coverage is accurate, look beyond AI. “If you’re in a business association for ice cream shop owners, you might want to ask them,” Espenschied says. “Because they’re very familiar with the risks that are involved: Food spoilage, delivery, workers’ compensation, slip-and-fall — all these different things that can occur in that type of a business.”Do your own research, connect with an industry group, or speak to an insurance agent or broker.Insurance mistake No. 5: Don’t underestimate your cybersecurity risk — no matter what business you’re inA boutique owner may not think of themselves as a potential cybercrime victim, but hackers might. Nearly half of cyber attacks in 2026 were against small businesses, according to tech security firm Total Assure. Small businesses provide high-value targets to cybercriminals, with the average breach resulting in $254,000 in losses.Why are they so often the target? Small businesses are less likely to have adequate security protection. And owners may not have considered the possibility of a data breach — or their liability if one occurs.In addition to training employees in security, change your passwords frequently and use multi-factor authentication. Be on the lookout for phishing scams and wire fraud; scrutinize every email or phone call from anyone requesting payment. Small businesses can also protect themselves from cyber risk with cyber liability insurance. This type of business insurance could help cover costs related to the breach, such as lost business income or legal defense fees.Insurance mistake No. 6: Professional mistakes could get coverage, tooTo err is human, but some professional errors can have serious consequences, including costing a client money. Many small business owners assume a general liability insurance policy will cover them if they make a professional mistake, but that’s not usually the case. In fact, many general liability policies actually have explicit professional services exclusions. Errors and omissions insurance, or E&O (also called professional liability insurance in many professions), could help protect you if a client claims that your advice, service, or work caused them a financial loss.Service-based professionals like insurance agents, real estate agents, consultants and property managers often benefit most from this protection. It could help cover costs if you’re sued for things like professional negligence or misrepresentation. Even if you didn’t make a mistake and only face the accusation, E&O insurance could help with legal costs if you have to defend yourself in court.“The first time someone gets sued and it costs them $20,000 to hire a lawyer, they go, ‘Oh, I wish I would have had that coverage,’” Espenschied says.Insurance mistake No. 7: Don’t skip the annual policy reviewThe coverage you buy at the beginning of your entrepreneurship journey may not be adequate 12 months later. Regularly reviewing your coverage is important to make sure you’re still adequately protected.While it’s a good idea to review your coverage at renewal time, don’t wait if your business needs have changed. “Insurance should grow with the business, not chase it,” Espenschied says.Review your small business insurance coverage at least once a year and at every business milestone to make sure your policies match your risk. Your coverage needs may change:When you hire your first employee: In some states, you’re required to carry workers’ compensation insurance immediately after your first hire — even if they’re part-time or seasonal employees. This type of policy could cover things like medical expenses and legal bills if an employee is hurt on the job.When you lease or buy your business building: Commercial property insurance could cover damages to your shop, store, office, warehouse, workshop or other commercial space as well as its contents (known as your business personal property), and landlords often require it to sign a lease.When you win a big client: Make sure your coverage matches your client’s requirements. More business can mean more revenue, and you may need to increase your insurance coverage limits across policies.When you lease or buy a business vehicle: Commercial auto insurance could cover business use of a vehicle. If your business buys a car, truck, van or trailer — or if you or your employees are driving personal vehicles for business — you may need to update your policy accordingly. ERGO NEXT Most common business insurance mistakes FAQGet answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about business insurance errors made by first-year small business owners.Do new business owners need business insurance?New business owners could benefit from the financial protection of business insurance. General liability insurance is the most common first policy. It helps protect your business from advertising injury, libel and slander, injuries to non-employees, and property damage.What’s the most common insurance mistake most business owners make?One of the biggest mistakes is not understanding what coverage they need. Learning more about insurance for your industry and business size can help you choose the right coverage. Some of the most common mistakes around business insurance that new business owners make include:Assuming that business insurance isn’t requiredPutting off buying insurance until it’s too lateNot understanding what coverage they needTaking advice from AI without a second opinionUnderestimating the details of their cyber riskNot understanding the fallout of professional mistakesSkipping the annual policy reviewPutting their personal assets on the line for their businessCan I ask AI what type of business insurance coverage I need?AI can be a resource for learning more about small business insurance, including what coverages are useful for your industry. But it’s best to confirm your coverage needs with another source.Do freelancers and solo entrepreneurs need business insurance?Business insurance can cover many risks that freelancers and solopreneurs face, including liability, professional mistakes, injuries and damaged property. You don’t have to have employees to benefit from business insurance.MethodologyERGO NEXT Insurance surveyed 501 U.S. small business owners, founders and sole proprietors about their business risk profiles. The respondent pool consisted of 250 entrepreneurs in their first year of business and 251 entrepreneurs in their first 2-5 years of business. The survey was conducted between April 29 and May 12, 2026.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What $1,500 gets you in Europe vs. the US for housing What $1,500 gets you in Europe vs. the US for housingIf you have ever wondered why your rent budget seems to vanish faster in the United States than it does across the Atlantic, there are economic, cultural, and historical reasons behind that feeling. That said, many Americans appreciate the spacious layouts, modern amenities, and walk-in closets that often define U.S. rentals, even if they come at a steep price. In this guide, HousingAnywhere explores what $1,500 per month actually buys in terms of housing across Europe and compares it to what that same budget gets you in comparable American cities.Who This Comparison Is ForThis guide is designed for a single person or a couple comfortable living in a studio apartment. It is not aimed at families who need multiple bedrooms or backyard spaces. If you are a student, a young professional, a digital nomad, or someone considering a move abroad for a year or two, this comparison will help you understand what your housing budget can actually buy. More than 3.9 million Americans currently live abroad, and Europe has become an increasingly viable option for single people who want to experience vibrant cultures and distinct lifestyles while maximizing their money.A key factor in this comparison is that median earnings differ considerably between U.S. and European cities, which affects how affordable these rents feel to local residents. With that in mind, the question is: What does $1,500 actually buy across Europe, and how does it compare to the U.S.?European City Comparison Table HousingAnywhere Rent Per Square Foot ComparisonTo understand the real value of these rentals, it helps to look beyond the monthly price tag. The cost per square foot reveals how much space you actually get for your money, and the difference is often striking. HousingAnywhere City-by-City ComparisonVienna, Austria vs. Boston, MassachusettsVienna feels like a city frozen in imperial elegance, with grand palaces, world-class museums, and coffeehouses that have hosted intellectuals for centuries. Boston shares that historic gravitas, with its red-brick architecture and university-town energy. But when it comes to rent, the contrast is stark. In Austria, a studio goes for €1,000, or roughly $1,080. In Boston, you would need about $2,500. That gap is not just about money; it is about what you can afford to do with the rest of your paycheck, whether that means concerts, travel, or simply enjoying a city that values quality of life.Brussels, Belgium vs. Washington, D.C.Brussels is the quiet power center of Europe, where international politics meets cozy neighborhoods, waffle stands, and world-class beer. Washington, D.C., plays a similar role on the American stage, with its corridors of power and sprawling monuments. Yet the housing costs tell a different story. A studio in Belgium rents for about €855, or $923. In D.C., the same kind of space commands around $1,867. That difference gives Brussels renters the luxury of spacious apartments with tall windows, historic charm, and the ability to live well without the financial strain.Paris, France vs. New York, New YorkFor anyone who has dreamed of living in a city that feels like an open-air museum, Paris delivers. Its tree-lined boulevards, corner cafés, and iconic landmarks create a rhythm that is hard to replicate anywhere else. New York has its own energy, fast and relentless, with ambition around every corner. Both are global capitals, but the cost of entry is dramatically different. A studio in France rents for about €1,300 per month, or roughly $1,404. In New York, you would need nearly $3,400 for something comparable. That extra $2,000 a month is not just about space; it is about what you can do with the freedom of a lower rent.Berlin, Germany vs. Portland, OregonBerlin has long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and anyone looking for a city that values creativity over polish. Its wide boulevards, sprawling parks, and gritty-chic neighborhoods offer a lifestyle that feels both relaxed and electric. Portland shares that independent, offbeat spirit, but the price tag tells a different story. In Germany, a studio goes for about €1,200 monthly, roughly $1,296. Portland's equivalent is closer to $1,500. That slight edge in Berlin buys you not just a home, but a city where history and modernity collide at every corner.Budapest, Hungary vs. Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaBudapest is a city of grand boulevards, ornate buildings, and a lively cultural scene along the Danube. Its neighborhoods mix historic cafés, ruin bars, and river views, giving it a mix of old-world elegance and youthful energy. Philadelphia makes for a natural comparison. It is also a city with deep history, an artsy vibe, and a scenic waterfront that anchors much of local life. In Budapest, a studio rents for about €690 per month, or roughly $745. In Philadelphia, the average studio costs around $1,748. That means a studio in Hungary costs roughly 57% less than a comparable unit in Philadelphia. Budapest renters get full-sized apartments with high ceilings, classic details, and room to breathe in a city that feels both historic and modern.Milan, Italy vs. Seattle, WashingtonMilan moves at the pace of a global fashion capital, sleek and design-obsessed. Its streets are lined with showrooms, galleries, and some of the best dining in Europe. Seattle, by contrast, is a tech and coffee hub, with a moody, creative energy all its own. Both cities attract ambitious professionals, but the rent gap is significant. A studio in Italy costs about €1,100, or $1,188. Seattle's average is $1,438. That difference gives Milan renters room to enjoy the city's cultural riches without stretching their budget to the limit.Rotterdam, Netherlands vs. Houston, TexasRotterdam is a city of bold architecture, busy ports, and a resilient, forward-looking spirit. Its skyline is filled with modern towers, its streets are bike-friendly, and its cultural scene thrives in former warehouses and industrial spaces. Houston shares Rotterdam's identity as a major port city and energy hub, with a diverse population and a sprawling, car-dependent layout. A studio in the Netherlands goes for about €975, or $1,053. In Houston, the same kind of space costs around $1,185. That modest savings in Rotterdam buys you a more compact, bikeable urban life with European flair.Lisbon, Portugal vs. Austin, TexasLisbon is a city of hills, tiled facades, and a slow, sun-drenched rhythm that has drawn expats and digital nomads from around the world. Its streets are filled with the sound of Fado music and the smell of fresh seafood. Austin shares that creative energy and a booming tech scene, but at a higher cost. In Portugal, a studio rents for €1,050, or $1,134. Austin's average is $1,189. The gap may be slim, but Lisbon offers something Austin cannot: a distinctly European lifestyle, complete with pastel-colored streets, ocean views, and a pace that encourages lingering over a meal.Barcelona, Spain vs. San Diego, CaliforniaBarcelona is a city that seems to exist in permanent summer mode, with sun-drenched beaches, Gothic alleys, and a nightlife that stretches into the early hours. San Diego offers a similar coastal charm, with perfect weather and a laid-back attitude. But the cost of that lifestyle is not the same. In Spain, a studio rents for €1,265, or about $1,366. In San Diego, you would pay around $2,200. That difference allows Barcelona renters to trade some square footage for a balcony overlooking the Mediterranean, tapas bars downstairs, and a city that celebrates life at every turn.Warsaw, Poland vs. Pittsburgh, PennsylvaniaWarsaw is a city of resilience and reinvention, with a skyline that mixes Soviet-era towers, modern glass skyscrapers, and a beautifully rebuilt Old Town. Its streets are filled with cafes, its parks are lush, and its cultural scene is thriving. Pittsburgh makes for a good American comparison. Both are cities that have transformed themselves, Warsaw from post-war reconstruction to a modern European capital, and Pittsburgh from steel town to a hub for tech and medicine. A studio in Poland goes for about €850, or roughly $918. In Pittsburgh, a studio costs around $1,200. That means a studio in Warsaw costs about 23% less than a comparable unit in Pittsburgh. Warsaw renters get a modern, walkable city with excellent public transport, a high safety index, and a vibrant cultural scene, all at a significantly lower cost than its American counterpart.What $1,500 buys in Europe is not just an apartment. It buys a lifestyle. It buys mornings at a local market, evenings at a neighborhood café, and weekends exploring streets that have stood for centuries. It buys the freedom to live without a car, to walk to work, and to feel like you are part of a city's rhythm rather than just passing through.For Americans tired of sky-high rents and long commutes, Europe offers a different way of living. It is not for everyone. Some people need the space, the storage, and the backyard. But for those who value experience over square footage, $1,500 goes a long way. It goes beyond rent. It goes into the fabric of daily life.This story was produced by HousingAnywhere and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	Managing regulatory change at AI speed Managing regulatory change at AI speedThe compliance challenge for businesses has fundamentally changed. The challenge is not just about understanding, interpreting, and applying regulations: it is also about managing the speed and volume of regulatory change. So far this year through mid-summer, over 200 HR-related compliance laws have been enacted in the U.S., including several governing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the employment context. Just as employers begin to leverage AI to help drive efficiency, this increase in regulatory change is driving fragmentation at the federal, state, and local levels, making human capital management (HCM) even more complex.At first glance, the opportunity for AI to help automate and manage compliance processes might seem unlimited. However, AI, while a valuable tool, is not a sole fix.HR is a complex, intricate, detailed field. When it comes to paying people and managing HCM processes, all while staying compliant, AI-enabled processes must be paired with expert human judgment and accountability, ADP advises.How regulatory change can differ by location or industryEmployers often face differing or conflicting requirements where their people work. While AI can help employers track regulatory changes, those changes often introduce ambiguity, and requirements that at first glance appear similar may be interpreted differently across different states, company sizes, or industries:AI in employment and workforce decisions: To promote fairness and transparency, a growing number of laws regulate the use of AI in employment-related decisions including hiring, promotion, compensation, performance management, and other workforce decisions. Companies may be required to disclose to employees and job candidates their use of AI to evaluate or recommend applicants, to conduct bias audits and risk assessments related to their use of such tools (including in some cases third-party validation), and include review by humans with the knowledge and means to identify and address violations as part of their processes. Complicating compliance efforts, state approaches continue to vary. Recent state activity illustrates this trend, with some states adopting broad AI governance frameworks and others focusing specifically on employment-related automated decision-making and associated notice, assessment, and oversight obligations.Pay transparency laws: The growing number of state and local laws requiring disclosure of employee pay rates vary widely in their specific requirements, even as they aim to provide transparency regarding pay ranges to job candidates.New tax rules for tips and overtime: Starting with the 2026 tax year, employers must report qualified tips and overtime on employees’ W-2 forms. Many states have adopted the federal reporting requirements for tips and overtime, while others have established their own tax reporting rules.Paid and protected leave: States continue to pass laws creating and expanding paid family leave and medical leave programs, requiring employers to navigate varying rules related to employee eligibility, payroll deductions and contributions, notice obligations and potential coordination with existing employer-provided leave benefits. Localities are passing paid leave programs as well, further adding to the regulations employers need to navigate.Multijurisdictional compliance: As companies expand into different jurisdictions, managing varying workforce compliance requirements becomes more complex.Whether it's AI governance, pay transparency, tax reporting, or leave requirements, employers increasingly face different obligations depending on where employees work, how their workforce is structured, and even which technologies they use.How to automate compliance without losing human oversightTo keep pace, leveraging AI-enabled HR systems can help by alerting employers of relevant changes in the rules for payroll (wage and hour laws), taxes (income and employment), health and disability insurance, workers compensation, unemployment insurance, and benefits. Automation can extend from identifying and isolating potential compliance risks to encouraging on-the-spot remediation through a combination of suggested actions and timely human intervention.However, employers need accountability, not just information. While AI can surface a regulatory update, it cannot determine how that rule applies to a company’s unique workforce structure, operating footprint, or existing policies. For many employers, compliance risk is no longer created by a lack of awareness. It’s created by the growing gap between regulatory change and an organization’s ability to operationalize that change.As AI accelerates business operations and regulatory change alike, employers need a new model for managing risk. Automation can provide visibility and speed, but compliance ultimately requires judgment, accountability, and expertise. An approach that combines the speed of intelligent technology with the judgment of trusted experts may become a defining advantage.This story was produced by ADP and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How does outsourced accounting compare to hiring in-house staff? How does outsourced accounting compare to hiring in-house staff?The median annual wage for an auditor or accountant in the U.S. is $81,680. However, this doesn’t include office overhead, benefits, software, or the financial and time costs of finding the right candidate.The gap between perceived and actual costs may shape whether you’re making a smart financial decision or an unexpectedly expensive one. The choice between in-house and outsourced accounting can significantly affect your budget, time, risk exposure and ability to scale.This comprehensive guide from Marshall Jones walks you through the likely costs, time investment and additional essential factors that will influence your decision.Key TakeawaysExplore the most crucial factors to keep in mind when comparing outsourced and in-house accounting:Salary is the starting point: While salary is an initial cost to consider, comprehensive compensation packages for in-house staff significantly increase overall employer expenses.Outsourced pricing varies by scope: Outsourced accounting pricing can hinge on reporting complexity, transaction volume, payroll needs and the range of services provided.The talent pool is shrinking: The accounting talent pool is shrinking, making it challenging to recruit qualified staff.CPA pipeline pressure continues: The pipeline of newly qualified CPAs remains constrained.Fraud risk is real for small businesses: Small businesses face substantial financial risks from occupational fraud.Survival requires sound financial management: Effective financial management is crucial for business survival and long-term resilience.What Are the Differences Between Outsourced and In-House Accounting? Marshall Jones Employment structure is the main difference between the two models. In-house accounting relies on employees working within your business on your payroll. Outsourced accounting involves engaging an external provider under a service agreement. Both accounting models manage similar tasks, but they differ in cost structure, time dedication and access to expertise.Understanding the differences between accounting and bookkeeping can also help you determine the support your organization can benefit from. Bookkeeping focuses on the minute details of your finances — reconciling accounts, keeping accurate records and recording transactions. However, accounting takes a big-picture, strategic view, interpreting financial data to guide business decisions.What Is In-House Accounting?In-house accounting means hiring accounting staff directly onto your payroll. An in-house accountant handles your financial operations as part of their daily responsibilities. Accounting roles range from bookkeepers and staff accountants to chief financial officers (CFOs) and controllers, representing higher levels of accounting leadership.In-house accounting staff members require onboarding, benefits, software, equipment and ongoing management. You’re responsible for their salaries, training, professional development and the tools they need to carry out their duties.What Is Outsourced Accounting?Outsourced accounting engages a third-party company to manage some or all of your business’s accounting functions. Services can range from basic bookkeeping to full-service accounting and CFO advisory support.Under a service agreement, you work with an external team rather than in an employment relationship. You retain access to your financials without carrying an employee on your payroll. Some outsourced providers may offer bundled services that include financial reporting, accounting software access and CPA-level oversight.What Does In-House Accounting Really Cost Small Businesses?The salary figure is only the start. Employer costs can rise considerably when you include extras like benefits and software. Small businesses must consider both direct and indirect costs, such as software licensing, workspace, equipment and management time. These small business accounting costs can add up quickly, especially when you factor in hiring, software and ongoing management.Salaries, Benefits and Employer OverheadAccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employer-paid benefits can account for around 30% of employer compensation costs. Key cost layers include:Direct compensation: For estimating purposes, applying a 30% benefits load to a $70,000 salary would bring compensation costs to approximately $91,000 before overhead.Workspace and equipment: Add utilities, office space, computer equipment and the management time needed to support the accounting employee.Ongoing fixed costs: You carry the responsibility of salary, payroll taxes and benefits, regardless of how well your business is performing. Accounting Software and Equipment ExpensesAn in-house accounting employee needs a licensed accounting platform, and your company bears that cost directly. Businesses are typically responsible for purchasing and maintaining accounting software, payroll and reporting platforms, and other financial tools separately.Outsourced accounting providers may offer bundled software access within their service agreements, removing a separate license cost. When comparing different accounting software platforms, check whether the software cost is included in an outsourced engagement or becomes an additional expense to you.Recruitment and Training CostsFinding, hiring and onboarding accounting staff involves both one-time and recurring costs. The pool of qualified accounting professionals is shrinking. In the 2023-2024 academic year, 55,152 students earned accounting degrees, a 6.6% decline from the previous year. In 2025, only 23,978 out of 87,660 CPA Exam candidates passed their final section, highlighting the narrowing pipeline of newly exam-qualified accounting talent.When an in-house employee leaves, you incur visible costs, including job postings, interviews, recruiter fees and onboarding. The less visible costs include lost productivity, knowledge gaps and the time it takes for new hires to learn systems.Beyond direct hiring costs, businesses should also factor in the time required to recruit, onboard, manage and cover accounting staff.How Much Do Outsourced Accounting Services Cost?Where in-house accounting carries layered costs, outsourced accounting operates on a predictable fee structure. Many providers bundle labor, software and oversight into one monthly fee. Pricing commonly reflects transaction volume, reporting frequency, payroll needs, advisory support and overall business complexity.Common Pricing Structures for Outsourced AccountingThe two most common pricing models are hourly billing and flat monthly retainers. Hourly billing may suit businesses with project-based accounting needs, whereas flat monthly retainers provide predictable costs that simplify budgeting.Key pricing drivers include service scope, transaction volume, number of accounts and reporting frequency. A business processing 50 transactions per month with basic bookkeeping needs will likely pay less than one processing 500 transactions with multi-entity reporting, payroll and tax planning.What Is Included in an Outsourced Accounting Service?Many outsourced accounting providers bundle multiple services into one engagement. A typical full-service package covers the core functions your business needs without requiring you to manage in-house staff. Common services can include:Monthly reconciliation: Your accounts are reconciled and balanced each month for accurate financial reporting.Financial statement preparation: You receive profit and loss statements, balance sheets and cash flow reports on a regular schedule.Managing accounts payable and receivable: The provider handles invoicing, collections, vendor payments and cash flow tracking.Payroll processing: Tax withholding, reporting and employee payroll are managed on your behalf.Tax preparation and planning: CPA-level professionals manage tax compliance and offer strategic tax planning guidance.Software access: Many outsourced accounting services for small businesses bundle accounting software into the engagement, removing the separate license cost.Continuous advisory support: You gain assistance with interpreting financial data and making informed business decisions throughout the year.Outsourced accounting can also reduce the administrative time spent managing accounting staff. However, business owners still need to share financial information and collaborate on strategic decisions.The responsibilities of a professional bookkeeping service include maintaining accurate records, reconciling your accounts, and ensuring your financials are ready for review by a CPA or board.Factors to Consider When Choosing Between In-House and Outsourced Accounting Marshall Jones Each business has different transaction volumes, budget constraints, growth plans and internal resources. The factors below can help you evaluate which model aligns with your needs.Business Size and Transaction VolumeLow to moderate transaction volume may not justify the full cost of an in-house hire. As transaction volume grows, the calculus can shift. Key considerations may include:Small to moderate volume: Businesses with 5-50 employees typically process fewer transactions and may find outsourced accounting more cost-effective than a full-time hire.High volume and complexity: Higher transaction volume, multi-entity structures and complex reporting could warrant a dedicated in-house accountant with specialized knowledge of your operations.Scalability: Providers scope outsourced accounting based on transaction volume and service requirements, allowing businesses to adjust support as their needs change. The accounting processes for growing businesses often require this kind of flexibility.Budget and Cash Flow PositionIn-house accounting is a fixed, high-overhead cost your business incurs regardless of revenue fluctuations. Outsourced accounting converts that fixed cost into a scalable monthly expense, which is meaningful for businesses managing tight or variable cash flow. Sound financial management plays a vital role in maintaining long-term resilience.Access to Specialized ExpertiseA small business that hires one bookkeeper or staff accountant gets access to one person’s knowledge base. The level of expertise available shapes the quality of your financial guidance.Expertise considerations include:Single-person limitations: One in-house employee brings one skill set, which may not cover all your accounting needs. This may prove challenging if your business operates in an industry with specific compliance requirements.Team-based knowledge: An outsourced accounting firm brings a team of certified public accountants and advisors with experience across different industries and financial situations, giving you access to broader expertise without hiring multiple employees.Strengthened controls: Organizations with fewer than 100 employees experience a median occupational fraud loss of $141,000, according to a report from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Broader distribution of responsibilities may strengthen internal controls by separating financial duties across multiple professionals.Reviewing the basics of small business bookkeeping can help you determine the level of expertise your business requires.In-House Accounting vs. Outsourced AccountingNow that you know the costs, time demands and decision factors, here are the major trade-offs. Each model offers distinct advantages and challenges.In-House Accounting Pros and ConsIn-house accounting offers immediate availability and direct oversight, but it comes with high costs and risks.Pros include:Daily availability: In-house staff work within your business daily. Over time, they develop institutional knowledge of your operations and financial history.Direct control: You manage the employee directly and have full visibility into their priorities and decision-making process.Multiple roles: Depending on their skills and your business’s needs, an in-house employee may be able to handle tasks beyond accounting.Cons include:High costs: Salary, benefits, overhead and software add up quickly, often exceeding initial budget expectations.Turnover risk: When your accountant leaves, institutional knowledge leaves with them.Coverage gaps: Vacations, sick days and departures leave your accounting department understaffed or unattended.Outsourced Accounting Pros and ConsOutsourced accounting can offer predictable costs and access to an experienced team, but it requires clear communication and data-sharing processes.Pros include:Predictable costs: You pay for services, not salaries and benefits, and costs are bundled into a flat monthly fee that’s easier to budget and plan around.Scalable services: You can change service levels without adding internal headcount.Faster setup: Engaging an outsourced provider generally takes less time than recruiting and onboarding a new employee from scratch.Stronger controls: Distributing financial responsibilities across multiple professionals can strengthen internal controls. It can reduce the risk of errors or fraud that occur when a single person handles all financial functions.Cons include:External operations: The provider works externally, which may feel less hands-on than having someone in your office daily.Data sharing: You need systems to regularly share financial information and documentation, like receipts and invoices, with the provider.Onboarding period: Transitioning to a new provider takes time to align on expectations and reporting formats during the initial setup phase.Less direct oversight: Some business owners may prefer to manage an employee directly rather than working with an external team.Choosing the Right Accounting Model for Your BusinessNeither in-house nor outsourced accounting is the right choice for everyone. The better fit depends on how much control you need, the complexity of your accounting requirements and whether your current budget can support the full cost of hiring internally.For many small businesses, outsourced accounting offers a flexible way to access financial expertise without adding another employee. For larger organizations, an in-house team may provide the direct oversight and day-to-day availability they need. The right model should support your business today while giving you room to grow sustainably.This story was produced by Marshall Jones and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	Google Local Services ads transition to Performance Max: What to save before your account migrates Google Local Services ads transition to Performance Max: What to save before your account migratesGoogle began the Local Services Ads transition to Performance Max in August 2026, moving campaigns out of the standalone Local Services Ads dashboard and into Google Ads. Your ads still run in the same positions on Google Search and Google Maps, you still pay per valid lead, and your campaign stays keywordless.But Google will not carry your historical performance reports into Google Ads, and it retires manual bidding and vertical-level target cost per action (CPA) on the same day, WebFX reports. You lose your reporting baseline and your bidding levers at once, which makes any cost-per-lead change afterward much harder to explain.Phase one is already live for select U.S. advertisers across nine home and storefront trades, including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, roofing, and pest control. If you run Google Local Services Ads in one of those categories, your migration notice could arrive within days.What changes when Local Services Ads transition to Performance MaxThe Local Services Ads transition to Performance Max changes where you manage campaigns, how you bid, how your budget is structured, and what reporting history you keep. It does not change where your ads appear or how you pay for leads, according to Google’s migration documentation. WebFX Campaign management moves into Google AdsYou will manage budgets, targeting, leads, and customer replies from Google Ads instead of the separate Local Services Ads dashboard. Once your account migrates, logging into the old dashboard redirects you to your campaign overview in Google Ads.You also gain control you did not have before. Google lets you change the phone number your call and message leads route to in real time, directly in the campaign.Your historical performance reports do not migrateGoogle confirms that previous campaign performance metrics, including past impressions, clicks, weekly spend, and ad-level reports, will not move to Google Ads. Your lead history transfers. The performance data you would use to compare before and after does not.Do this before migration day: Save enough historical reporting to preserve your year-over-year comparisons and your cost-per-lead trend. Google plans to add a download page and recommends screenshots if you need the data sooner.Your Google Business Profile becomes the source for core detailsGoogle Ads pre-populates your campaign from your Google Business Profile, and your business name, address, and hours sync from the profile into Google Ads rather than the reverse. To change those core details, you edit the Business Profile.Significant changes to your business name, storefront address, or primary category trigger a verification review. That review typically takes 24 to 48 hours and can pause your campaign while it runs, which is a strong argument against making major profile edits near your migration date.Google retires Better Business Bureau calloutsBetter Business Bureau (BBB) callouts no longer appear after migration. Google directs you to your campaign’s assets tab to select at least six other structured callouts, such as business hours, specialties, or accepted payment methods.Are Local Services Ads going away?Local Services Ads are not going away. Google is moving them into Google Ads infrastructure, but the product itself keeps working the way it does today.Several widely shared LinkedIn and Reddit posts describe Google as killing Local Services Ads or discontinuing them outright, and “What happened to Google local service ads?” now appears in the People Also Ask box for the term.What Google retires for migrated accounts is the separate Google LSA dashboard. Your pay-per-lead billing, your Search and Maps placements, your keywordless targeting, and your Google Verified badge all survive the move.When will your Local Services Ads account migrate?Google is migrating accounts in three phases rather than all at once, starting with U.S. home and storefront service advertisers in August 2026.August 2026: Select U.S. advertisers in nine trades migrate first, covering plumbing, HVAC, electrical, appliance repair, house cleaning, lawn care, roofing, pest control, and moving.Late 2026: The rollout expands to service-area businesses without physical storefronts, plus accounts running custom bidding or booking configurations.2027: Non-U.S. accounts and all remaining business categories transition, including advanced-verification categories such as locksmiths and garage door services.If your category requires advanced verification, or you operate outside supported regions, Google directs you to keep managing campaigns on the legacy Local Services Ads portal at g.co/localservices until your phase arrives.Your account administrator receives an email 14 days before your migration date, along with warning banners in the dashboard, followed by a reminder email seven days later. Google also asks you to allow up to two weeks after migration for performance to stabilize.Those first-wave trades are the ones where a single top placement matters most. Before the migration began, WebFX research on home services SERP features found that Local Services Ads appeared in roughly 28% of home services searches and ranked position 1 in every search where they appeared.Why this is not a standard Performance Max campaignCampaigns with pay-per-lead goals share the Performance Max name but almost none of the behavior advertisers associate with it. Google states clearly that these campaigns do not expand to its other advertising channels. WebFX Managing this campaign like a standard Performance Max campaign will waste your time. Asset expansion, channel exclusions, and the creative testing playbooks built for how Performance Max campaigns work across networks have no application here, because there are no other networks to expand into.What changes in your bidding and budgetGoogle applies three bidding and budget changes automatically on transition day, and two of them remove controls you may rely on now.Google no longer supports manual bidding, including a maximum cost per lead. It also retires vertical-level target CPA, so if you managed separate targets for separate service lines under one campaign, Google calculates a single campaign-level target CPA and applies it to every category. Your weekly budget becomes a daily average, divided by seven, with monthly spend capped at that daily average multiplied by 30.4.Plumbing and HVAC rarely share the same lead economics. A drain call and a system replacement carry very different revenue, so one blended target CPA changes what each service line can afford to pay for a lead.WebFX research on home services search visibility sharpens that point. Across 500 searches run in May 2026, before the migration started, Local Services Ads appeared in 36% of garage door searches, 32% of plumbing searches, 28% of HVAC searches, 25% of electrical searches, and 21% of roofing searches. Four of those five trades sit in Google’s first migration phase, and garage door services waits until 2027, so a unified target CPA now applies one number across service lines whose top-of-page visibility differs by 11 percentage points.If you need separate bidding rules by category after migration, Google’s stated workaround is to build a separate campaign for each vertical. Reviewing your Local Services Ads cost factors by service line before your notice arrives tells you whether that split earns its overhead.The Baseline Lockbox: Five things to save before migration dayYour reporting history and your bidding controls disappear together, so the only way to diagnose a post-migration performance change is to build your own baseline first. Most migration advice stops at exporting your spend reports, which is the right first step and nowhere near enough. Capture all five of these while you still have access to your Google LSA dashboard.Historical spend and lead volume. Export enough months to support a year-over-year comparison. Google flags this step directly, so treat it as your floor rather than your plan.Cost per lead by service category. This becomes your only record of what each service line actually paid before a single target CPA replaced your per-vertical targets, and it matters most when multiple trades share one campaign.Current bidding settings. Screenshot your manual bid ceilings and every vertical-level target CPA, since Google replaces them with one calculated number.Lead quality and downstream conversion benchmarks. Capture your qualified-lead rate, booked rate, or close rate by service, so you can tell cheaper leads apart from worse leads once cost per lead shifts.Full campaign setup and assets. Record service areas, service categories, ad schedule, lead-routing phone number, business photos, and your existing callouts, including the BBB callouts you will need to replace.What to do during your 14-day migration windowGoogle handles the technical transfer, so your work in the two weeks beforehand comes down to preserving what the transfer leaves behind and verifying what it moved.When the 14-day notice arrivesExport your historical reporting and capture the Baseline Lockbox. Confirm who holds access to the destination Google Ads account and that they receive the migration emails. Identify any vertical-level bidding setup that needs restructuring.At the seven-day reminderVerify your saved reports open and read correctly. Hold off on major Google Business Profile edits, since a name, address, or category change can trigger a verification review that pauses your campaign. Confirm your CRM still captures leads correctly.On migration dayWork through your settings against what you saved:Daily budget matches your previous weekly budget divided by sevenService areas and service categories carried overAd schedule carried overBusiness photos carried overLead-routing phone number is correctMessage leads send and receivePast customer leads and message history appear on the Leads pageReplacement structured callouts are activeGoogle Verified badge shows on your profileDuring the first two weeksCompare performance against your saved baseline rather than against an empty dashboard. Google says campaigns need up to two weeks to ramp back to stable levels, so two or three days of volatility tells you nothing. Escalate when a cost-per-lead change persists past that window, or when one service line drops while the others hold.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Which football cities score highest for renters? Which football cities score highest for renters?What makes a great football city depends more on just the final score. So much can set the mood: crowd noise, tailgating scene, traditions, and weather conditions that only hometown fans seem emotionally prepared to endure. It’s even more complicated for renters. After all, monthly rent, ticket prices and whether getting to the stadium requires a train ride, a parking pass, or the patience of a fourth-quarter quarterback clawing his way out of a losing streak all make a difference.Then there’s the fact that a team’s city and its actual stadium location do not always share a ZIP code. Often, they don’t even share a city limit. That opens up more possibilities for renters who want to live near the stadium, along a useful transit route, or just close enough to join the tailgate without hearing every post-touchdown cheer from their bedroom.With a little help from the official 2025 NFL standings, Apartments.com identified the five best football cities for renters, comparing the renter experience in each market including average one-bedroom rent, ticket costs, transportation, tailgating, stadium features, and nearby places to live. These figures collided to create the Renter Game-Day Scorecard.The Renter Game-Day Scorecard: The Football Cities With the Most Home WinsTo determine the five winning cities, Apartments.com started with data from the latest completed NFL regular season and used the following factors to determine which markets are best for renters:Home-game performance: There’s no place like home. Some teams take this literally. This figure represents the total 2025 regular-season wins at the team’s home stadium. Home winning percentage served as the tiebreaker for teams with the same number of wins.Average one-bedroom rent: The citywide average rent for a one-bedroom apartment, based on Apartments.com data pulled in Sept. 8, 2026. The national average rent was $1,664 per month at the time.Average get-in price: The least expensive season package tickets for the team’s 2026 games. This is not the average price paid for every ticket. Actual prices vary by matchup, seat, and purchase date. Pricing does not include taxes.Game-day access: How renters can reach the stadium, including nearby rail stations, bus routes, special event shuttles, and walkable locations. Lower prices mean that renters get more bang for their buck, which helped determine final rankings.Stadium and tailgating experience: The features, traditions, and pregame atmosphere that give each football city its game-day personality. Apartments.com Teams that claim a region rather than a specific city were not included for the Renter Game Day Scorecard. Sorry, Patriots fans.1. Denver Broncos: Denver, Colorado2025 home record: 8–12026 Season get-in price: $900Average one-bedroom rent: $1,628/monthThe Broncos delivered the strongest home record on this list, winning eight of their nine regular-season games in Denver. Renters also caught a small break with Denver’s average one-bedroom rent being $36 below the national average.Empower Field at Mile High takes its name very literally. The stadium sits exactly 5,280 feet above sea level and holds 76,125 fans. Its undulating upper deck was designed to reflect the Rocky Mountains, giving the stadium some local personality even before the crowd arrives.The tailgating scene is similarly established. Most stadium lots open four and a half hours before kickoff, while Lot C opens six hours early for the especially committed. Renters who would rather skip parking can use the E or W light-rail lines to reach Empower Field at Mile High Station or Decatur-Federal Station.Where renters can live near Empower FieldJefferson Park: $1,934/month. Directly north of the stadium, Jefferson Park offers one of the shortest trips to a Broncos game. Its elevated namesake park also provides views of Downtown Denver, although renters pay more for the location.West Colfax: $1,640/month. West Colfax sits west of the stadium along its namesake commercial corridor. Access to the W Line and Decatur-Federal Station makes it especially practical for renters who want a rail connection to both football games and Downtown Denver.Highlands: $1,535/month. Located north of Empower Field, the Highlands combines older residential streets with clusters of restaurants, shops, and bars.Sloan Lake: $1,756/month. Sloan Lake gives renters access to one of Denver’s largest urban parks while remaining relatively close to the stadium. It costs more than the citywide average, but the lake, trails, and mountain views offer something football cannot provide during the offseason.Villa Park: $1,134/month. Villa Park has the lowest average rent among the Denver neighborhoods on this list. It sits southwest of the stadium near several W Line stations, including Perry and Knox, giving renters a transit option without the prices found immediately around Empower Field.The play: Denver combines the best home record with rent just below the national average, direct stadium rail service, and a well-established tailgating tradition.2. Los Angeles Rams: Inglewood, California2025 home record: 7–12026 Season get-in price: $800Average Los Angeles one-bedroom rent: $2,200/monthThe Rams won seven of eight regular-season home games, giving them the second-highest home winning percentage on this list. Additionally, they have the second-lowest season ticket price of the five teams.The Los Angeles rental market presents the opposite story. At $2,200 per month, Los Angeles had the highest citywide one-bedroom rent among the five markets. However, SoFi Stadium is in Inglewood, where renters can explore several nearby communities with averages below the broader Los Angeles figure.SoFi Stadium’s “cool factor” is difficult to miss. It has a screen suspended from the roof over the field (covering over 70,000 square feet) that weighs over two million pounds. It is essentially the world’s most dramatic reminder that, yes, a receiver’s foot was in bounds. Additionally, this stadium has hosted world-stopping events. Literally: Super Bowl LVI, Super Bowl LXI, WrestleMania 39, and eight matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And because the flexing doesn’t stop, it’s set to host the opening ceremony for the 2028 Summer Olympics.Tailgating is more structured here than in Denver. It is restricted to a limited number of spaces in SoFi’s Pink Zone, which opens five hours before kickoff. Additionally, there are heavy restrictions on what you can bring to the cookout.Fans without a Pink Zone pass can instead explore the surrounding Hollywood Park development or take the free SoFi Stadium Express from the LAX/Metro Transit Center, which connects with the C and K rail lines.Where renters can live near SoFi StadiumInglewood: $1,809/month. Living in Inglewood places renters in the stadium’s actual home city rather than the city printed on the Rams’ jerseys. In addition to SoFi, the Hollywood Park area in Inglewood contains entertainment venues, public spaces, restaurants, and retail.Hawthorne: $1,622/month. South of Inglewood, Hawthorne had an average one-bedroom rent slightly below the national average. The Hawthorne/Lennox Station on the C Line provides a connection to the LAX transit center and the game-day stadium shuttle.Westchester: $2,377/month. Westchester sits west of Inglewood near Los Angeles International Airport and the LAX/Metro Transit Center. It offers useful access to the K Line and SoFi shuttle, although it is the most expensive nearby option.Lennox: $1,484/month. Immediately south of Inglewood, Lennox had the lowest average one-bedroom rent among the communities surrounding SoFi. It is also close to the Hawthorne/Lennox C Line station.El Segundo: $2,234/month. El Segundo trades immediate stadium proximity for coastal access, a traditional downtown district, and proximity to major employers near LAX. Rent is slightly higher than the Los Angeles average, but the C and K lines help connect the area to the SoFi Stadium Express.The play: Los Angeles-area renters face the highest citywide rent on the list, but the Rams balance that disadvantage with a dominant home record and the flashiest stadium experience of the five.3. Buffalo Bills: Orchard Park, New York2025 home record: 7–22026 Season get-in price: $1,065Average Buffalo one-bedroom rent: $1,245/monthBuffalo offers an extreme version of the home-field tradeoff. The average one-bedroom apartment rented for $1,245 per month, about 25% below the national average. On the other hand, the cost of attending a Bills game might be a hefty security deposit in itself.The team earned its 7–2 record at the former Highmark Stadium. Beginning with the 2026 season, the Bills are moving into an entirely new Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. The $2.1 billion venue has a capacity of 60,108, wider concourses, and updated technology. Its first regular-season game is scheduled for September 17, 2026.Then there is the tailgating. “Bills Mafia” tailgates are events of their own. The new stadium’s official lots open four hours before kickoff, while the RV lot permits entry the day before a home game starting as early as 8:00 a.m. NFTA’s Game Day Express provides special service from several locations around the Buffalo area to the stadium.Where renters can live near Highmark StadiumOrchard Park: $1,286/month. Orchard Park is nonnegotiable for renters who want to live in the same community as the stadium. It has a more suburban layout than Buffalo itself, so proximity does not mean every apartment will offer a practical walk to the gates.West Seneca: $1,153/month. Located north of Orchard Park, West Seneca offers quick driving access to the stadium area through major routes such as U.S. 219. Its average one-bedroom rent was also below both the Buffalo and national averages.Hamburg: $1,288/month. Hamburg borders Orchard Park to the west and south, making it another close suburban option. Renters can choose between areas near major commercial corridors and the smaller-scale shops and restaurants around the Village of Hamburg.Downtown Buffalo: $1,477/month. Downtown places renters farther from the stadium but closer to the waterfront, offices, entertainment venues, and Metro Rail. On game days, the NFTA Game Day Express serves the Metropolitan Transportation Center downtown.Tonawanda: $1,133/month. Tonawanda had the lowest average one-bedroom rent among the Buffalo-area options. It is farther north and requires a longer stadium trip, but renters gain access to the Erie Canal waterfront and can still connect with Game Day Express service elsewhere in the metro.The play: Buffalo renters benefit from one of the lowest citywide rents in this lineup and perhaps its most famous tailgating culture. The tradeoff is a high ticket price and a suburban stadium location.4. Houston Texans: Houston, Texas2025 home record: 7–22026 Season get-in price: $540Average one-bedroom rent: $1,180/monthHouston had the lowest citywide one-bedroom rent among the five football markets, coming in approximately 29% below the national average. Texans' season tickets also carried the lowest get-in price, making Houston a great football city for renters who would like some money left after paying both rent and stadium concessions.The stadium completed a comeback of its own in August 2026, when NRG Stadium officially returned to its original name, Reliant Stadium. The venue contains a retractable roof, 125,000 square feet, and seating configurations ranging from roughly 72,000 to 80,000.Texans parking lots generally open four hours before kickoff, with the Platinum Lot opening five hours early. Fans entering Reliant Park need a game ticket or a tailgate ticket.Houston also offers one of the most useful stadium transit connections on the list. The METRORail Red Line stops at Reliant Park. It connects the stadium with the Texas Medical Center, Museum District, Midtown, and Downtown Houston.Where renters can live near Reliant StadiumMidtown Houston: $1,583/month. Midtown offers restaurants, bars, and a central location between Downtown and the Museum District. Red Line stations throughout the neighborhood provide a direct rail trip to Reliant Park.The Museum District: $1,294/month. The Museum District gives renters access to Hermann Park, cultural institutions, and multiple Red Line stations.Medical Center: $1,695/month. The Medical Center sits just north of Reliant Park and offers one of the shortest rail trips to the stadium. Its concentration of hospitals, research facilities, and apartment communities makes it practical for renters working in the district. The trade-off is higher rent prices.Downtown Houston: $1,999/month. Downtown has the highest rent among these Houston neighborhoods, but it provides a direct Red Line connection to football games. Renters also gain access to office towers, theaters, restaurants, and Houston’s broader light-rail network.Central Southwest: $1,278/month. Central Southwest spreads south and southwest of Reliant Stadium and provides a more residential alternative to the neighborhoods along the central rail corridor. Some renters can access the Red Line through Fannin South Station, but others will find driving more practical.The play: Houston pairs the lowest citywide rent in the group with below-average get-in prices. Add a retractable roof, direct transit lines, and a large-scale Texas tailgate scene, and the city makes a persuasive case for renters who want football without the highest housing or season ticket costs.5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jacksonville, Florida2025 home record: 7–22026 Season get-in price: $1,150Average one-bedroom rent: $1,312/monthThe Jacksonville Jaguars quietly assembled a 7–2 home record last year. This year is a year of transitions for the team as they prepare for a different playing field, stadium-wise.EverBank Stadium has long been known for its enormous end-zone video boards and poolside seating, but its current “cool factor” is the transformation happening around it. Construction on the Jaguars’ “Stadium of the Future” began in 2025 and is scheduled for completion in August 2028. Plans include a transparent protective shell, wider concourses, new communal spaces, river and skyline overlooks, and flexible seating for more than 63,000 guests.Construction means the stadium is operating at reduced capacity during the 2026 season, with the upper decks, North End Zone Deck, and Sky Patio closed. The Jaguars will play the entire 2027 season away at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium due to construction. Renters attending games should check entry and parking information before leaving home.Official lots open four hours before kickoff. The JTA Gameday Xpress provides service from two downtown locations and additional suburban lots directly to the stadium.Where renters can live near EverBank StadiumDowntown Jacksonville: $1,514/month. Downtown places renters close to the stadium, the St. Johns River, offices, and major cultural venues. JTA operates Gameday Xpress service from the Florida State College at Jacksonville Downtown Campus.Southbank: $1,510/month. Southbank sits across the river from Downtown and offers access to the Southbank Riverwalk and Jacksonville Skyway. The Kings Avenue parking garage also serves as a Gameday Xpress location with continuous service during Jaguars games.San Marco: $1,548/month. Just south of Southbank, San Marco is centered around a compact commercial district filled with restaurants, shops, and historic architecture. Renters can reach the Kings Avenue Gameday Xpress location without traveling into the outer suburbs.East Jacksonville: $853/month. East Jacksonville is the neighborhood that actually contains EverBank Stadium. Its average one-bedroom rent was the lowest of every neighborhood in this article, though renters should expect a smaller rental selection.The play: Jacksonville combines comparatively low rent with the lowest average get-in price in the group. Stadium construction creates short-term complications and higher season ticket prices. But renters near Downtown, Southbank, and East Jacksonville can remain close to the action as the venue enters its next era.This story was produced by Apartments.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	'Our Big Fat Greek Festival' returns to St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Rock Island St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Rock Island, welcomes the community back to "Our Big Fat Greek Festival" from 4-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, a news release says. Admission is $2 for adults and children; free for those 12 and younger. Greek cuisine, spirits, culture, music, dance, and other [...]
	Quad-Cities invited to ‘Light the Town Green’ and walk I-74 bridge for mentoring The centerpiece of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Month celebration will be the I-74 bridge itself, which will be lit green for the occasion.
	Mice with human brain cells offer a tool to study disease. Ethicists ask: What's next? Neuroscientists have made a major advance in modeling the human brain in mice, offering a new way to study conditions like cerebral palsy. Ethicists ask if it changes how these mice should be treated.
	Mayor: Public outcry played a large role in the decision to shut down Flock in Moline Moline shuts down its network of Flock license plate reader cameras after public pushback over privacy concerns. Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati explains the decision and what the city plans to do next.
	The rise of agent-to-agent commerce: When AI starts shopping for AI The rise of agent-to-agent commerce: When AI starts shopping for AIOnline stores have spent years serving people who browse and buy, but some of the requests arriving at those stores now come from AI agents acting on behalf of human customers.In 2025, Columbia Business School researchers built a simulated marketplace to study what happens when AI agents do the buying, letting the agents choose among products without a person making the final selection. Consulting firm Deloitte has laid out how far this could go, ending with agent-to-agent commerce, where the shopper’s AI talks directly to the store’s AI without requiring the shopper to open a webpage at all.Reaching that point will take time, but Shopware has already noticed a divide among merchants, between stores that have prepared their systems for AI agents and stores that have not. Even so, a person still sits behind the purchase, and the number of steps left to that person keeps shrinking as software handles more of the transaction.From AI-assisted shopping to autonomous commerceIt all starts with a simple change in who finishes the purchase. Software that suggests a product and software that buys one can look alike from the outside, but only one of them has permission to spend.The first generation of AI shoppingShopping tools have been useful for years without ever touching a checkout button. Early on, search filters helped shoppers narrow large catalogs by price or product features.Over time, retailers added tools that used browsing or purchase history to recommend products, leaving shoppers with fewer choices to sort through. And more recently, chat assistants began answering product questions before checkout.Bain describes this progression as shopping AI moving from gathering information to acting more like a copilot, with generative AI changing how people find and compare products. But even then, the shopper still made the final decision and completed the purchase.When software starts actingThe difference now is what the software is allowed to do once it receives instructions. Paul Krauss, Partner AI at Team One, points to tool use as the dividing line, describing it as a model's ability to control outside systems through structured commands. "A model that only generates text does not buy anything," Krauss said.With that ability, agentic commerce extends from researching options to placing orders on behalf of the person who sent the request. And once an agent sends that order, the store still has to be ready to receive it.What agent-to-agent commerce actually looks likeAgent-to-agent commerce starts with a purchase request that has to make sense to software on both sides. For example, a shopper looking for a laptop under $1,500 might add two requirements, giving the buyer's agent a clear set of conditions to carry into the transaction.The consumer's agentWith those conditions set, the agent needs reliable product information from the seller. MIT's Initiative on the Digital Economy notes that agents need access to a retailer's shopping system before they can make a selection and move toward payment.The merchant's systemsOn the seller side, that request has to be answered with current information about what is available and whether the purchase can proceed. PwC calls that requirement being transactable, with checkout and fulfillment paths that an agent completes on its own.The "conversation" between machinesLittle of that exchange resembles two chatbots trading messages, since both sides pass structured data through software connections.Google says its Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) provides agents a single way to work with commerce systems, reducing the separate connections a store would otherwise need for every agent reaching out. And with that connection established, the shopper submits one request while the systems exchange the information needed to move the purchase forward.Why agent-to-agent commerce could change the rules of e-commerceHuman shoppers are emotional buyers influenced by design and branding, while an AI agent is more likely to judge whether a product meets the requirements it was given.Search rankings could give way to agent recommendationsWith the agent working from specific requirements, Deloitte describes automated buyers evaluating suppliers on factors such as cost and availability. And a product that satisfies those requirements remains competitive without depending as heavily on where it appears on a page.The product page plays a smaller roleProduct pages also play a smaller role in the purchase when an agent gets the information it needs directly from retailer data. Google has already added Merchant Center fields that give AI systems details beyond traditional keywords, including answers to product questions and compatible accessories.Retailers, therefore, have more reason to make product details available outside the page itself, since the agent does not need the same visual path a shopper would follow.Commerce could become more intent-drivenAll of it traces back to the request someone gives at the start, which sets the limits within which the AI agent works. But the seller still needs proof that the agent is allowed to make a purchase under those limits.The biggest challenge is trusting AI to spend moneyTrust is by far the biggest hurdle facing autonomous shopping, especially when it comes to giving a computer program the green light to spend real money. Finding a product requires accuracy, but completing the purchase requires proof that the agent has the authority to use the shopper's money.How much autonomy is too much?Deloitte uses “workflow autonomy” to describe how much of a purchase software handles end-to-end. And as an agent handles more of the purchase, its permission has to be clear.Who is responsible when an AI makes a mistakeHowever, giving the agent more authority also removes some of the human checks that might catch a wrong order before it goes through.Bob Hedges, a fellow at MIT's Initiative on the Digital Economy and former Visa chief data officer, says formal rules already specify who carries liability in a fraud case. And how those rules apply to AI agents remains under negotiation.The importance of identity and paymentStill, any dispute over an AI purchase is easier to sort out when there is a clear record of what the shopper actually authorized. Google's Agent Payments Protocol records a shopper's instructions as signed mandates, giving merchants something to check before payment.What merchants will need to prepare forAI shopping agents are starting to send purchase requests directly to retailers, leaving merchant systems to supply the information needed to complete an order.Clean, structured product dataPwC says agent-ready commerce depends on clean data and processes that agents can reliably act on. And that data only works if the product details are complete, since a missing size or compatibility detail can stop the software from confirming that a product actually fits the request.Open and interoperable commerce systemsEven accurate product data only helps if an outside agent has a workable way to send the order. Team One’s Krauss notes that without shared standards, every connection becomes an individual project that does not scale. Retailers then face the burden of building a separate connection for every agent that wants to place an order.Business rules become more importantOpening merchant systems to outside agents also requires store policies that software can apply. PwC includes policy rules among the areas businesses should update for agentic commerce, including rules around discount eligibility and returns. And existing merchant policies will have to be clear enough for software to apply without guessing.The future of shopping may be less about "clicking" and more about "delegating"Given that technology now lets shoppers hand more of the purchase process over to software, delegation is starting to change how much of an online store a person needs to use directly.Becca Coggins, a McKinsey senior partner leading the firm's global retail practice, calls agentic commerce a fundamental reconfiguration of the customer journey, with a shopper's digital proxy navigating the marketplace on their behalf. And handing more of that navigation to the AI agent reduces how many product pages and checkout screens a shopper has to handle.But even with fewer screens involved, traditional storefronts still serve people who want to browse, while agent-led purchases give others a way to finish an order without the same trip through the store.The new competitive questionRetailers now have to keep a browsable store running while their systems answer purchase requests from agents. But an agent-led purchase only works if the order can move from start to finish without sending the shopper back to correct a problem the software was supposed to handle.Conclusion: The next customer may not be humanPerhaps the most surprising change is that some customer interactions now happen through an AI agent rather than directly with a person.Commerce platforms are the place where transactions happen, and customer relationships form, and AI agents are beginning to operate there, too.Agents taking part in those transactions make software the retailer's direct point of contact, even though a person still authorizes the purchase. Even so, the customer relationship still belongs to the person who authorized it. And given where that relationship sits, merchants now have to recognize that serving the customer also requires responding to the software acting on their behalf.This story was produced by Shopware and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Survey: Gen Z most receptive to political yard signs Survey: Gen Z most receptive to political yard signsAccording to AdImpact, the 2026 election spending will reach a record high of $11.6 billion. The money shows that political advertisers are chasing the long-running assumption that younger voters live online, while older voters are looking through the mailbox.A new survey, however, shows Gen Z’s attention is elsewhere during campaign season. UPrinting’s 2026 study identifies physical materials as carrying the most influence in statewide races for the online generation. Over two in 10 (22%) of Gen Z found repeated signs, mailers, or bumper stickers made them more favorable toward a candidate. To put it in perspective, 43% of Baby Boomers said that the marketing materials had no effect on them, nearly twice the rate of Gen Z. UPrinting This is a giant shift in perspective in where the political industry assumes its audience is.MethodologyUprinting, an online printing site for marketing materials, commissioned a survey of 1,000 U.S. adults via Pollfish in August 2026. Respondents answered questions about yard signs, mailers, and other campaign marketing materials and how they influenced them. Uprinting also notes that results were unweighted and women make up 61% of respondents, and the sample skews younger than the U.S. adult population.The state-level comparisons were gathered by grouping each state’s presidential results across the 2008 through 2024 elections. The respondents were never asked about their political affiliations or how they voted.The Generational Standard Has FlippedTypically, older generations can be counted on to support printed marketing materials. This survey says otherwise.Uprinting asked its respondents what happens when one candidate’s signs take over a neighborhood. 21% of Gen Z said it signals real momentum and they would start paying closer attention.That share falls as the age increases: 15% of Millennials, 12% of Gen X, and 5% of Baby Boomers said the same.The same pattern shows when asked what carries the most influence in a campaign. 23% of Gen Z said physical materials do, versus 15% of Millennials and 8% of Gen X. Baby Boomers did not pick that option at all.So Gen Z is paying attention. Does this mean they will participate in the yard signs declarations?Gen Z Likes Yard Signs, Hates Talking About PoliticsAlthough they are the most receptive to this type of campaign material, Gen Z is the least likely to express their political views where they live. Only 9% of the younger generation said they would be completely comfortable, versus 29% of Gen X and 28% of Baby Boomers (Millennials weren’t reported). UPrinting The reasons for Gen Z’s fears are as follows:27% feared vandalism or property damage21% feared a direct conflict with neighbors15% feared consequences at work or in their social lifeThese are not made-up fears. In Gouldsboro, Maine, the Ellsworth American reported political signs were stolen and vandalized by unknown individuals on a private property along Route 1.The fear is real, and where the pressure is the strongest makes all the difference.The Silence Is Loudest in Swing States UPrinting In swing states (states that flipped between political parties across 2008-2024 presidential results), more than two in 10 (22%) of residents said that opposing candidates dominating their neighborhoods made them more likely to keep quiet about their own political views. In reliably red states, that number is 16%, while in reliably blue states, that number is 14%.This feeling follows them to the voting booth. Only 17% in swing states said seeing the opponent’s signs takeover made them more determined to vote, with 23% in red states and 20% in blue states.Only 18% of respondents say they display their political views openly, even around opposing views. In swing states where the elections get decided, people are feeling unsafe to say and vote what they think.Yard signs were supposed to be a way for people to express their opinions. Yet this survey says the opposite, suggesting they have partly become the reason people stay silent, especially in states where votes matter most.This story was produced by UPrinting and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad Cities International Airport awarded $210K in infrastructure funding Airports throughout Illinois, including in the Quad Cities, have been awarded thousands of dollars for infrastructure improvements. U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) made the announcement that a total of $66,345,494 in federal funding for infrastructure improvements has been awarded to various airports across the state. The funding comes [...]
	5 great places to visit for fall leaf-peeping, festivals, and more 5 great places to visit for fall leaf-peeping, festivals, and moreAs nature puts on its big leaf-peeping show across the Northern Hemisphere this fall, a change of scenery just might make the crisp autumnal air feel a little more energizing. Fall is the perfect season to trade your usual routine for something a little more scenic—from going leaf-peeping and lapping up fall flavors in Vermont’s Green Mountains to watching hot-air balloons soar over New Mexico and chasing crimson foliage in Kyoto. Wondering where to travel in the fall? If you’re looking for fall vacation ideas, the experts at EF Go Ahead Tours have picked five of the best fall travel destinations that offer epic autumn travel experiences. Stephen Mccormack // Shutterstock 1. New England: Best for foliage and classic fall flavorsCovered bridges surrounded by foliage. Cool, crisp mornings. Maple everything. There’s a reason why New England is one of the best places to visit in the fall—it’s basically the blueprint for autumn vibes. In Vermont, tour the famed von Trapp Family Lodge (and use your free time to taste one of the state’s autumnal specialties: apple cider doughnuts). Then, drive along the legendary Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, where mountainsides explode in red, orange, and gold. This is fall foliage travel at its most breathtaking.The cool, dry weather during fall in New England is ideal for exploring: Layer up for coastal walks in Maine or a stroll along Boston’s Freedom Trail without breaking a sweat. Along the way, dig into seasonal favorites like creamy clam chowder and lobster rolls. (Locals usually opt for a cold lobster roll with mayo, but there’s no judging if you opt for a toasty roll of herbed lobster drenched in warm butter once the temps drop.) When you travel to New England in the fall, you’ll also want to stop in Salem, Massachusetts—site of the Salem witch trials—where Halloween reigns supreme.To kick up your New England experience to a whole other level, stay at the von Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont, which is owned and operated by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music.” KnateMyers // Shutterstock 2. U.S. national parks: Best for scenic views and a hot-air balloon festival in New MexicoIf you’re into epic views, crisp air, and fewer crowds, fall is the ultimate time to visit the U.S. national parks. Think: golden aspens in Zion, cool hikes among Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos, and perfect photo ops without the summer stampede. Visiting The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta and U.S. national parks hits some of the Southwest’s most jaw-dropping sights and kicks things off with one of the most surreal views in the country: hundreds of colorful hot-air balloons rising over New Mexico’s desert at sunrise.The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in early October is pure magic—colorful, quirky, and totally unforgettable. Among the many amazing things to know about the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta: It’s the only balloon festival in the world where spectators can walk in between the balloons. Add other experiences—like exploring sandstone canyons and taking a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon—and you’ve got one of the best fall vacations around. If you’re looking for unique fall getaways or are planning where to go for a little shoulder season travel adventure, this one should be at the top of your list. ItzaVU // Shutterstock 3. Kyoto, Japan: Best for temples surrounded by glowing red and gold leavesEveryone talks about cherry blossom season in Japan, but locals know that fall foliage travel might be even better. In Kyoto, autumn is all about momijigari, the centuries-old tradition of “chasing red leaves.” Come late October into November, the city transforms into a living canvas of fiery maples and golden gingkos, especially around spots like the Temple of the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle.Travelers who travel to Kyoto can experience this seasonal ritual like pros—camera in one hand and a warm sweet potato snack in the other. Cooler temps, lighter crowds, and postcard-worthy views around every corner make Kyoto one of the best fall travel destinations for those in the know. For cultural depth, color-drenched scenery, and truly iconic autumn travel, this is one of the most rewarding fall vacation ideas. Sina Ettmer Photography // Shutterstock 4. Bavaria, Germany: Best for Oktoberfest celebrations and castle-dotted forestsIf you’re craving fall travel destinations that feel like diving headfirst into a fairy tale, Bavaria’s fall colors and legendary castles are pure magic. Picture this: You’re wandering through forests ablaze with pumpkin-orange hues, and the towering silhouette of Neuschwanstein Castle pops into view. That’s the kind of fall foliage travel that’ll make you want to pinch yourself on this trip.Now, about Oktoberfest. Sure, the festival itself is a bucket list event, but don’t sweat it if you’re not snagging a ticket. Munich, Bavaria’s vibrant heart, practically hums with Oktoberfest vibes all September long (making it one of the best fall vacations). Pull up a bench at a bustling local beer garden, order a frothy stein, and dig into pretzels the size of your head alongside cheerful locals who’ve perfected the art of a lively celebration. Between hearty Bavarian dishes, crisp autumn breezes, and streets alive with music and laughter, you get all the festive feels without the crush of crowds. Sergey Novikov // Shutterstock 5. Greece: Best for warm fall weather with smaller shoulder season crowdsAn autumn tour of this dreamy destination is less about leaf-peeping and more about avoiding the crowds for a Mediterranean experience that comes with extra elbow room. Fall in Greece hits its stride in September and October—or shoulder season, when the weather is still sunny and warm but the summer crowds have thinned. That balance makes Greece one of the best places to travel in the fall, especially if you’re craving a mix of culture, coastline, and cuisine. Dive into ancient history in Athens, explore the maze-like alleys of Mykonos Town, and relax on the black sand beaches of Santorini. If you still want leaf-peeping, why not give grape leaves a try? Going to Greece in the fall also means experiencing grape harvest season on the Cyclades Islands. During this time, local vineyards buzz with activity, and you can tour wineries, sip just-pressed wines, and learn how volcanic soil gives Santorini’s white wines their crisp, mineral edge. If you’re craving sun, fresh food, and a little wine with your ruins—all without the chaos of summer crowds—Greece is a fall travel destination that delivers.Give fall travel a try for a different take on scenery and local cultureBetween busy summer schedules, back-to-school prep, and the onset of the holiday shopping season, fall travel is often overlooked. But for those in the know, this shoulder season period, full of vibrant colors, is a go-to for lighter crowds in iconic European destinations, a taste of Americana that comes with fresh cider doughnuts, and bucket-list moments in Asia. So, if your preference is lounging on a beach with a little more room to spread out, taking in fall colors and flavors in the mountains of New England, or feasting your eyes on Kyoto’s fiery foliage, give autumn a chance next time you book a getaway. You’ll be happy you did.This story was produced by EF Go Ahead Tours and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

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