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

Tuesday, March 10th, 2026
	Iowa not listed among the states continuing Live Nation antitrust lawsuit A coalition of 26 states says the terms of a tentative settlement reached with Live Nation on Monday don’t go far enough and plans to continue the case in court. It’s unclear whether Iowa, which joined the original lawsuit, will accept the settlement.
	Asplund retiring as Galesburg School Superintendent Galesburg District 205 is looking for a new superintendent after John Asplund announced his retirement at last night’s school board meeting. Asplund spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to talk about the decision and what’s next. He said this is a good time for retirement. “Next year will be my 10th year here [...]
	Responding to federal threat, legislation would protect Illinois waterways As the Trump administration moves to slash federal protections for waterways and wetlands, Illinois Democratic lawmakers and environmental advocates are racing to finally pass a measure that would enact state safeguards.
	Court filing alleges feds violated immigration court order, wrongly deported hundreds Attorneys working to identify violations of the federal consent decree say the process has been slowed by delays in receiving arrest records from the government.
	Flower & Garden Show brightens QCCA Expo Center The QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Avenue in Rock Island, is hosting the annual Flower & Garden Show on March 13–15. The three-day event transforms the Expo Center into a vibrant indoor garden experience with blooming flowers, professionally designed display gardens and dozens of vendors offering plants, landscaping ideas and outdoor living inspiration. Hours are [...]
	Immigration detention on track for deadliest fiscal year since 2004 Twenty-three people have died since October in ICE custody, as advocates warn about overcrowding and health care access.
	Photos from Iran and across the Middle East as the war enters Week 2 More than a week of the U.S. and Israel's war against Iran has dragged in global powers, upended the world's energy and transport sectors, and brought chaos to usually peaceful areas of the region.
	'American Classic' is a hidden gem that gets even better as it goes In this charming TV series, Kevin Kline plays a Shakespearean actor who retreats to his small hometown after a crisis, and gets engaged in an effort to save the local theater.
	Iowa Ombudsman: Scott County Jail allowed woman to bang head against cell wall for hours Jail administrators admitted lapses in judgment by their officers and quickly began making changes to their policies and practices, according to the report.
	OneTable QC releases Table Talks findings OneTable QC has released a summary of findings from its February Table Talks focused on affordable housing on February 9 and homelessness on February 23. Nonprofit leaders, policymakers, funders and community stakeholders gathered for open, data-driven dialogue on two of the area’s most pressing issues. A follow-up Table Talk focused on solutions and action steps [...]
	A dose of psilocybin helps smokers quit in new study The psychoactive substance in magic mushrooms appears to have a powerful effect on people trying to stop smoking.
	Tasting Village Inn Pies for Pi Day It's almost Pi Day, and we're celebrating the fun side of math! We're here with Cesaire Nwatchock a manager at Village Inn to talk about all things Pie.
	One person dead after crash in Blue Grass Monday evening The crash occurred in the 13200 block of 65th Ave., south of Blue Grass.
	Iowa ACLU lobbying for automatic license plate readers regulations; two bills await consideration in the Iowa House The Iowa American Civil Liberties Union is advocating for automatic license plate reader guardrails, citing the history of vendor errors and differing law enforcement policies. Two bills passed out of the Transportation and Judiciary Committees await further consideration in the full house, with the second funnel deadline approaching.
	One dead in vehicle/pedestrian incident near Blue Grass A pedestrian died last night after an incident with a vehicle near Blue Grass last night, according to a news release from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office. SECC (Scott Emergency Communications Center) received a call on March 9 at about 6:30 p.m. for a report of a motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian in the [...]
	Police identify 19-year-old woman killed in Burlington bar shooting Police have identified the 19-year-old woman killed in a shooting at Chavy’s Bar and Grill in Burlington on March 7. A Mount Pleasant man faces murder charges.
	Pedestrian killed in Blue Grass crash A pedestrian was killed in a car crash on 65th Avenue South in Blue Grass. Officials continue to investigate the incident.
	Severe storms likely Tuesday evening in the Quad Cities Record or near record highs are expected again today in the Quad Cities area, especially across our southern hometowns. This will help to ignite some strong to severe storms this evening and early tonight. After a warm start to the week, it turns much cooler for the rest of the week into the weekend. Some [...]
	Special Weather Statement until TUE 9:15 AM CDT Patchy Dense Fog Affecting Travel This Morning
	What to know about Moline's zoning changes for duplexes Moline City Council has amended its zoning and land development code to give duplexes the same legal protections as single-family homes when classified as legal nonconforming, or grandfathered in.
	Pedestrian killed in crash in Blue Grass According to the Scott County Sheriff's Office, officers were notified of a crash involving a pedestrian in Blue Grass around 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 9.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for March 10, 2026 Motorists in Bettendorf should watch their speed as police monitor near Tanglefoot Terrace, and Stewart Road is closed in Muscatine for repairs.
	'Pro-worker AI,' streaming fatalities, and other fascinating new economic studies From artificial intelligence to fatalities from music streaming to the effects of immigrants on elderly health care, the Planet Money newsletter rounds up some interesting new economic studies.
	Helen Burkhiser This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.If only Helen Burkhiser had read Little House on the Prairie when she first began teaching school in 1937, Mankato,…
	Trump gives mixed messages about when the war with Iran will end In a phone call with CBS News Monday, Trump said "the war is very complete." But at a separate event with Republican lawmakers, he said the U.S. still needed to achieve "ultimate victory."
	Alexander brothers convicted of sex trafficking in Manhattan federal court Three brothers, including two of the nation's most successful luxury real estate brokers, were convicted of sex trafficking Monday after a five-week trial.
	Australia grants asylum to 5 members of the Iranian women's soccer team Australia has granted asylum to five members of the Iranian women's soccer team who were in the country for a tournament when the Iran war began.
Monday, March 9th, 2026
	Officials: Pedestrian struck, killed in Scott County motor vehicle crash Officials say the names of all involved are being withheld until families can be notified.
	Galesburg superintendent to retire Dr. John Asplund will retire on June 30, 2027 after leading the Galesburg school district since 2017.
	Augustana college hosts Shades of Beauty event to celebrate International Women’s Day In honor of International Women’s Day, Augustana College hosted its annual Shades of Beauty event.
	Rock Island leaders consider rezoning west side land for potential industrial development The zoning change would also allow the city to apply for up to $150,000 in site readiness grant funding.
	Galesburg superintendent announces plans to retire Galesburg’s superintendent has announced plans to retire.
	Iowa bill to help first responders send their children to college A bill in Iowa aims to make it easier for first responders to send their kids to college. Per House File 2654, tuition would be covered if the student is pursing an associate's degree to a career in public safety or a career that workforce development deems a high-demand job. The first responder needs to [...]
	Iowa bill restricting cities’ civil rights expansions heads to governor Iowa Senate Republicans approved legislation that would prohibit cities and counties from expanding civil rights protections beyond state law, sending the measure to the governor.
	Death Notice: Jack Keppy Visitation for Jack Keppy, 81, will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 15, at Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. A private funeral service will be held, and burial will be in the Walcott Cemetery. Mr. Keppy died Thursday, March 5, 2026. Memorials may be made to the Donahue Volunteer Fire Department or the Walcott Hearts & Hands Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com. A full obituary will appear in the March 18 edition of The NSP.
	Illinois expands savings program for people with disabilities Illinois is expanding a program for people with disabilities to help them save for their future without risking their federal benefits. People who were diagnosed with a disability before the age of 47 are now eligible to open an ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account. The tax-exempt savings accounts allow people with disabilities to [...]
	Geneseo siblings win Food Network's Baking Championship: Next Gen Abigail and Kenneth Wolf are celebrating after winning the nationally televised competition, taking home $25,000 after competing against 11 teams.
	Two teams, one community; Bellevue supports two schools at state tournament In the middle of a normal weekday, the streets of Bellevue, Iowa are quiet. You can hear the flapping of a passing birds' wings. But not on Monday. That afternoon the streets were filled with honks, sirens, cheers, and joy. A celebration for two high school boys' basketball teams qualifying for the state tournament, both [...]
	Geneseo siblings win Food Network's 'Baking Championship: Next Gen' Abigail and Kenneth Wolf are celebrating after winning the nationally televised competition, taking home $25,000 after competing against 11 teams.
	Augustana professor receives national recognition for helping Ukrainian families A local professor is receiving national recognition for helping Ukrainian families rebuild their lives in eastern Iowa.
	Davenport Central prepares for Show Choir National Championship Series The Central Singers Incorporated will compete against schools from five states.
	Rock Island City Council considers rezoning area near Sunset Park Rock Island City staff want to change the zoning from nature conservation to light industrial.
	Randy Feenstra and Rob Sand both take next steps for governor Rob Sand and Randy Feenstra turned in thousands of signature for their campaigns for governor.
	Wake Up, I Think Maggie's Got Something to Say to You: “The Bride!”, “Hoppers,” and the 2026 Oscar-Nominated Short Films: Animation If possible, Maggie Gyllenhaal's intensely watchable, intensely problematic revisionist salute is an even nuttier achievement than Young Frankenstein, if not always nutty in appreciable ways.
	Severe weather chances on the rise for Tuesday evening After a record high on Monday, we're looking at a rough go of it Tuesday night around parts of the area. the Storm Prediction Center has placed a large part of our area in the "Enhanced Risk" are for severe t'storms. All modes of severe weather are on the table for the Quad Cities: As [...]
	Traveling flag honoring nation’s 250th anniversary flies over Iowa State Capitol An American flag traveling across the country as part of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration flew over the Iowa State Capitol Monday morning.
	Record high of 75° in the Quad Cities! We'd been close to a few record highs lately, and Monday we finally got there! The old record high for March 9th is now 71°, beaten out by today's 75°! We had plenty of sunshine across the area too. Making matters even better? The wind wasn't all that bad, with gusts up to about 20 [...]
	Family dog rescued from house fire in Davenport Two residents displaced and a family dog was rescued after a Davenport house fire.
	Rock Island Arsenal shuts off power due to electrical emergency The Rock Island Arsenal shut off its power across the island due to an electrical emergency.
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges receiving $1 million grant for career education programs The grant funding will go towards EICC's programs in criminal justice, IT and healthcare.
	ICE contract with Iowa jail increased funding for detentions by 75% The Muscatine County Jail was promised a 75% increase in potential revenue for holding federal immigration detainees during the first year of the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration, newly disclosed records show.
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges receiving $1 million grant for career education programs The grant funding will go towards EICC's programs in criminal justice, IT and healthcare.
	The Waiting Child: Outgoing Lacy loves dancing; waits for a Big Brothers Big Sisters ‘Big’ More than 200 kids in the area are on the waiting list for a ‘Big.’ Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley needs volunteers to spend time with them. In this week’s The Waiting Child, Our Quad Cities News' Eric Olsen introduces us to Lacy, an outgoing soul who loves dancing. Lacy shares what [...]
	‘I didn’t believe it’: Illinois, Cook County wipe out $2B in medical debt for pennies on dollar Programs help over 1 million residents, but lawmakers debate whether future funding will be there.
	Stay safe from 'yes scam;' tattoo shop owners arrested: Crime Watch Episode 57 Watch crime reporters Linda Cook and Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in our area with the latest episode of the Our QC Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode Linda and Sharon discuss: updates on: To view, click the video above or watch on-the-go on Spotify. The QC Crime Watch Podcast \| Podcast on [...]
	Iowa politics latest: SNAP changes, limits on city civil rights codes, property tax proposal Dana Searles from our sister station in Des Moines joined The Current to discuss the latest movement at the Iowa Statehouse.
	Quad Cities Lock and Dam 15 turns 92-years-old It first opened back on March 7, 1934. The Army Corps of Engineers says an average of 18 million tons of cargo pass today.
	Celebrate Irish spirit and support area businesses at the Shamrock Showcase Celebrate Irish spirit and support Rock Island businesses! Jack Cullen, Bill Healy and Jeff Rusk joined Our Quad Cities News with details on the weekend Shamrock Showcase. For more information, click here.
	Tennessee GOP Rep says Muslims 'don't belong in American society' Rep. Andy Ogles' social media post is the latest in a series of Islamophobic statements from House Republicans.
	2 Davenport women arrested, charged for attempted stabbing Two Davenport women have been charged with assault after an attempted stabbing, according to court documents.
	Clinton Career Advancement Center receives state grant Four community colleges in Iowa are being awarded $4 million dollars from the Iowa Career Academy Incentive Fund. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges is a recipient in the funding. Three career academies at the Clinton Career Advancement Center will be updated to improve facilities. This includes academies for health care, criminal justice and networking for systems [...]
	Trump set to hold a press conference as U.S.-Israel-led Iran war enters second week It comes as oil and gas prices soar, throwing the global economy into turmoil.
	Trump set to hold a press conference as U.S.-Israel-led Iran war enters second week It comes as oil and gas prices soar, throwing the global economy into turmoil.
	Trump holds a press conference as U.S.-Israel-led Iran war enters second week It comes as oil and gas prices soar, throwing the global economy into turmoil.
	Trump says U.S. is 'achieving major strides' in Iran toward military objectives It comes as oil and gas prices soar, throwing the global economy into turmoil.
	Trump says U.S. is 'achieving major strides' in Iran but doesn't cite endpoint President Trump held his first news conference since the beginning of the U.S.-Israel-led Iran war on Monday as oil and gas prices soared, throwing the global economy into turmoil.
	Police identify woman killed in Saturday Burlington shooting Authorities have identified the woman who police say was shot to death on Saturday. A homicide investigation is underway.
	How are fuel prices impacting travel? Gas prices continued to be affected by the conflict in the Middle East. According to AAA, the national average price for gas today is $3.478 per gallon. The average price in Illinois is $3.524 and the average price in Iowa is $3.175. The effect on aircraft fuel is even more stunning. According to Global Air, [...]
	Two charged in attempted stabbing in Davenport Police charge two people for an attempted stabbing in Davenport on Friday night
	Federal funding furthers Project NOW's Head Start educational program A nonprofit organization in Rock Island is receiving over $1.8 million in federal funding to aid its Head Start program, which provides Pre-K children with early education.
	Big Brothers Big Sisters Plant Sale underway The weather is warmer, now it’s time to start planning the garden and hanging baskets. The 37th annual Big Brothers Big Sisters Plant Sale will help bring color to your yard while helping children in the Quad Cities. Click here for more information and to place orders. The deadline to preorder is April 20. Kylie [...]
	Man charged with stealing car, driving 100 mph on the wrong side of the road A Davenport man is accused of stealing a car and driving more than 115 miles per hour while trying to escape police
	Rock Island Arsenal shuts off all electricity for up to 3 hours Monday afternoon The announcement recommended employees scheduled for second or third shifts to monitor the Rock Island Arsenal website for status updates, or to contact their supervisor for updates.
	YWCA in Rock Island renovates its former home to become new group home for youth Nearly two years after opening its new downtown Rock Island facility, the YWCA Quad Cities is getting ready at its old building blocks away to open a state-licensed group home for youth who have been removed from their families due to abuse, neglect or other circumstances.
	The Cities Private Wealth Group celebrates major growth with a new office designed for exceptional client experience Content by The Cities Private Wealth Group. Learn how The Cities Private Wealth Group is elevating their client experience with a new location in Bettendorf.
	Rock Island Arsenal shutting power down island-wide Monday afternoon due to electrical emergency The shutdown will close all child development centers and youth services, as well as the post exchange and commissary, according to the Arsenal.
	Whitey’s Ice Cream launches 2026 “Flavor Madness” bracket to crown best shake Whitey’s Ice Cream has launched its 2026 Flavor Madness bracket, letting fans vote for the best shake. The winning shake will be announced March 27.
	Epstein used his ties to Nobel laureate scientists to try to rebuild his image A 2006 conference for physicists in the U.S. Virgin Islands that included a trip to Jeffrey Epstein's private island shows how he used his wealth to build relationships with prominent scientists.
	Arsenal Island to cut power this afternoon for electrical emergency Power across all of Arsenal Island is expected to be shut off at about 3 p.m. because of an electrical emergency, with the outage anticipated to last about two to three hours.
	Polar Plunge surpasses $55K goals for athletes, Special Olympics Illinois says Special Olympics Illinois surpassed its fundraising goal Sunday, raising more than its $55,000 goal for Special Olympics athletes.
	Lab-grown diamonds now cost 73% less than natural diamonds. What that means for buyers in 2026 Lab-grown diamonds now cost 73% less than natural diamonds. What that means for buyers in 2026Over the past five years, lab-grown diamonds have fundamentally reshaped the diamond jewelry industry, evolving from a niche product into a mainstream choice now accounting for more than 45% of all US engagement ring purchases. This dramatic growth has been fueled by improved manufacturing efficiencies, changing consumer preferences — especially among Millennials and Gen Z — and shifting market dynamics exacerbated by COVID-era inflation.Proprietary data from insurance technology company BriteCo reveals significant changes in pricing, style, and consumer purchase behavior, including a marked increase in carat size, quality, and diversity of shapes in lab-grown diamonds for engagement rings. As prices for lab-grown stones continue to fall and natural diamonds work to reclaim their luxury status, the industry is bifurcating: Lab-grown diamonds are emerging as accessible, everyday luxury, while natural diamonds reposition as exclusive symbols of enduring value. BriteCo The past five years have been tumultuous for the jewelry industry. Retailers and wholesalers have had to navigate industry-specific and macroeconomic factors. Lab-grown diamonds, in particular, have become a serious disruptor. What was once a small, niche market compared to the multi-billion dollar sales of natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds have gone mainstream, accounting for as much as 45% of diamond engagement ring purchases in the US in 2024.The impact on diamond prices from the introduction of lab-grown stones has been just as dramatic. The rapid improvement in lab-grown diamond quality and a steep decline in prices have created significant competitive pressure on the sale of natural diamonds, resulting in declining average engagement ring prices — from about $6,000 in 2021 to $5,200 by 2024. The acceptance of lab-grown diamonds and their widespread availability hasn’t just impacted prices; however, it has also influenced styles.To help understand the dramatic changes occurring in the diamond market, this report aims to help explain the impacts lab-grown diamonds are having on the jewelry industry and consumers. The researchers tapped into hundreds of thousands of proprietary appraisal and insurance data points over the past five years from BriteCo to identify several trends and make educated predictions.The Rise of Lab-Grown DiamondsFor practical purposes, the lab-grown diamond is a “real” diamond in that its properties are identical to that of an earth-mined diamond. However, as the name implies, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled-environment manufacturing process in a matter of weeks. That contrasts with the formation of earth-mined or “natural” diamonds that have taken shape in the earth over millions of years.The technological breakthroughs in producing lab-grown diamonds, introduced around 2015, have radically reshaped the diamond industry. Although scientists had been attempting to synthesize diamonds since the 19th century, success remained elusive until high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT), and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques matured.By 2015, lab-grown diamonds could be produced with a quality on par with natural stones. This innovation disrupted the traditional pricing model for natural diamonds which have seen a decline in price as lab-grown diamonds have flooded the market. By 2025 a natural 1-carat diamond cost an average price around $4,200 (with a typical range from $3,000 to $6,000 or higher depending on quality), while a lab-grown 1-carat diamond average price cost $1,000 or less.In 2019, a mere 5.2% of all diamond jewelry sold was primarily lab-grown diamonds. Of diamond engagement rings, only 6.3% had a lab-grown center stone. For diamond jewelry outside of engagement rings, a mere 2.5% of all items sold were made from lab-grown diamonds.The past five years have seen explosive growth in lab-grown diamond jewelry. Today, 42.1% of all diamond jewelry sold comprises lab-grown diamonds: 47.7% of all engagement rings, (Fig 1) and 22.4% of other jewelry types sold in 2025 were primarily lab-grown diamonds.Thus, the relative market share of lab-grown jewelry has grown 709.6% over the past five years. That phenomenal market shift can be attributed to a number of forces operating simultaneously in the US during this time. BriteCo Coalescing Forces Causing Market ChangesThe rise of lab-grown diamond popularity can’t be attributed to a single market force, but rather the coalescence of circumstances. While the proliferation of lab-grown diamonds may be considered by some to be inevitable given the improvements in technology, the cumulative impact of external forces accelerated this trend. Several major market drivers contributed most to the rise of lab-grown diamonds.1. Increased Manufacturing Efficiencies and Growth in Supply — Retail prices for lab-grown diamonds have dropped sharply due to improved manufacturing efficiency and significant supply increases from producers in China and India. This has spurred market competition, making lab-grown diamonds far more affordable than natural diamonds.In 2019, for example, the cost of a lab-grown engagement ring on a per-carat basis was 26.6% lower than its natural diamond counterpart. Today, the difference is even more dramatic — 72.8%. Thus, the larger the diamond, the larger the discount for a lab-grown diamond versus a natural diamond. BriteCo 2. A New Generation of Consumers — A study of US consumers in 2022 indicated that younger generations were embracing lab-grown diamonds and were fast becoming a major force in their acceptance. Millennials, and especially Gen Z, are at the forefront of lab-grown adoption.For Millennials, there’s a near 50/50 split of engagement ring sales between natural and lab-grown. For Gen Z, it’s not even close. Two-thirds of Gen Z engagement ring purchasers opt for lab-grown diamonds. BriteCo As Gen Z and Millennials have chosen more lab-grown diamonds, especially for engagement rings, the price of engagement rings has trended down. BriteCo 3. Shifting Sentiment Among Consumers and Retailers — While Gen Z and Millennials have led the way in the growth of lab-grown diamonds, there has also been a shift among consumers of all ages towards lab-grown. Every group experienced double or triple-digit growth in the market share of lab-grown diamonds. BriteCo Retail jewelers have responded to the demand for lab-grown diamonds by expanding their offerings, investing in consumer education, innovating with new designs, adjusting pricing strategies, and promoting the perceived ethical and environmental benefits of lab-grown stones.These adaptations have allowed them to capture a rapidly growing segment of the market, though they also face new challenges in profitability and competition as the market matures.4. A COVID Inflation Spike — The wholesale price of 1-carat natural diamonds in the US from 2019 to 2025 shows a notable peak during the pandemic years, followed by a steady decline and some recent stabilization. BriteCo Over the same period, lab-grown diamond prices have steadily declined as supply has flooded the market. BriteCo The difference in price per carat between lab-grown and natural engagement ring diamonds has increased every year, but saw the largest jump in 2022, when it grew 67.7%. BriteCo The natural spike in 2021 was a major driver in lab-grown adoption. Once consumers saw the value in purchasing a lab-grown diamond, there was no going back.5. Gold Prices — Investors have rekindled interest in gold as an asset class. The price rose from $1,725.65 an ounce in May 2020 to $3,289.55 in May 2025, a 90.6% increase in just five years. BriteCo With the price of gold nearly doubling, the cost of the setting relative to the diamond saw a significant increase. For budget-constrained customers, this may indicate they are opting for a lab-grown diamond instead of a natural diamond to stay within a given budget.The rapid changes brought about by the popularity of lab-grown diamonds go beyond their impact on price. Several noticeable style trends are directly attributable to the broader availability and lower costs of lab-grown diamonds.Trend #1 — Bigger Diamonds PreferredConsumers aren’t just pocketing the savings from lower natural and lab-grown diamond prices. They have been using part of those perceived sayings to buy bigger diamonds, especially lab-grown diamonds.The average size of a lab-grown center diamond for an engagement ring increased from 1.31 to 2.45 carats from 2019 to 2025, an 87.0% increase. BriteCo For reference, the average width of a 1.31-carat diamond is about 7.1 mm, while the average width of a 2.45-carat diamond is about 8.9mm. The surface area of the top of a lab-grown diamond increased 57.1% over that same time period.Millennials in particular are changing the landscape of engagement rings and fine jewelry purchasing. Many value the ability to get a larger or higher-quality lab-grown diamond for the same price as a mined or natural diamond. In contrast, natural diamond engagement ring weight (carat) showed much less growth in size. BriteCo Trend #2 — Better Quality Diamonds EmergeThanks to an improvement in production processes, many lab-grown diamonds today exhibit higher quality in terms of color and clarity. In 2020, for example, 37.7% of all lab-grown diamonds sold were colorless. By 2025, that increased to 85.9%.Likewise, in 2020, VVS1 and VVS2 lab-grown diamonds represented 6.6% of lab-grown diamonds sold, which increased to 35.3% in 2025. VVS1 and VVS2 are clarity grades used to describe the quality of both natural and lab-grown diamonds, specifically referring to the presence and visibility of internal flaws known as inclusions.The same trend applies to natural diamonds. This reinforces the trend that consumers aren’t just taking advantage of lower prices to save money, but rather making purchases based on a specific budget and “buying up” on quality. BriteCo Trend #3 — Diamond Shapes Are ShiftingAccording to BriteCo data, the increase in lab-grown diamond sales has shifted consumer preferences from round shapes to other shapes. In 2020, more than half or 53.8% of lab-grown diamonds and 55.2% of natural diamonds sold were round in shape.By 2025, only 24.3% of lab-grown diamonds sold and 47.9% of natural diamonds sold were round in shape. In 2025, oval was the most popular shape for lab-grown diamonds.The change in diamond shape preferences may be due to natural diamond consumers traditionally choosing round shapes because they are perceived as more rare and valuable. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, have little or no perceived after-market value, and therefore, a consumer would likely choose whatever shape best fits their personal tastes. BriteCo Trend #4 — Consumers Adding to Their Jewelry BoxesConsumers have also been taking advantage of low diamond prices by purchasing more non-bridal pieces of jewelry.In 2020, bridal, consisting of engagement rings and wedding bands, represented 69.5% of all purchases. By 2025, that decreased to 60.2%. One item whose popularity has increased over time is tennis bracelets. In 2020, tennis bracelets were only 3.5% of sales. By 2025, that number grew to 11.9% – a substantial 240% increase in market share. Thus, lab-grown diamonds have helped make a tennis bracelet much more affordable and popular for consumers.Trend #5 – Shifting Retail MarginsThe cost of a jewelry piece has two distinct parts. One part is for the gemstones (including diamonds) in the piece, and one for the setting. Historically, retail jewelers made small margins on expensive diamonds and large margins on relatively inexpensive settings.A simple analogy for the jewelry setting is the typical “loss leader” product that helps bring the customer into the store to purchase other higher-margin products. Since the price of diamonds has dropped, however, jewelers are selling higher overall purity settings. This suggests that jewelers are making up for lower prices and margins on diamonds with more expensive settings to help maintain their margins.Based on the engagement ring data, 14K settings represented 76.5% of new sales in 2020. By 2025, that dropped to 62.6%. Meanwhile, the share of engagement rings with 18K settings grew by 52.5% during that same time period. BriteCo What’s Next For Lab-Grown Diamonds?Given the popularity and growth of lab-grown diamond sales, the market for diamond jewelry has experienced irreversible change. However, it’s important to remember that the fine jewelry industry has been around a very long time, and has survived and even thrived through other rapid and dramatic changes. What happens next? Which of these trends will continue, which will recede, and which will change course? Here are several predictions about the future of lab-grown and natural diamonds based on data and experience in the industry. Note, these predictions are not meant to be financial advice.Prediction 1 — Lab-Grown Brand Differentiation BlursThe lab-grown industry has laser-focused on a single message for consumers: Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds and no different from natural diamonds. Meanwhile, the lab-grown producers have produced lab-grown diamonds in massive quantities, flooding the market and sending prices, including natural diamonds, on a steep decline.The disconnect between rhetoric and price tells a different story. At the current rate, lab-grown diamonds may simply be seen as a rapidly depreciating asset, a cheap imitation of the real thing. Recent action by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) confirms that lab-grown diamonds are becoming more of a commodity, not to be graded on individual quality scales but in larger commercial groupings.According to GIA, “Beginning later this year [2025], GIA (the Gemological Institute of America) will start using descriptive terms to characterize the quality of laboratory-grown diamonds and will no longer use the color and clarity nomenclature that GIA developed for natural diamonds….The revised GIA description system for laboratory-grown diamonds will confirm that the submitted item is a laboratory-grown diamond and whether it falls into one of two categories, ‘premium’ or ‘standard.’”Prediction 2 — Natural Diamond Producers Accelerate MarketingWith more than 10 million people worldwide relying on the diamond mining industry, natural diamond perceptions have made significant progress in the past three decades, focusing on improving the lives of those closest to the mining process. Seeking to put the perception of “blood diamonds” behind it, the industry has repositioned itself to be a greater source of good in some of the poorest parts of the world.Most recently, the natural diamond industry has accelerated its marketing to consumers. The Natural Diamond Council has a website full of articles and an education center. De Beers, the world’s dominant earth-mined diamond company, is introducing a new “beacon” and brand. In addition, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre and the WFDB have developed their own pro-natural campaigns.Prediction 3 — Lab-Grown Becomes a New Class of JewelryIt’s possible lab-grown diamonds won’t be regarded as a luxury item in the future, but that doesn’t mean lab-grown diamonds would be considered on par with fashion or costume jewelry. Instead, a new class of jewelry could emerge. These jewelry items would be made of various precious metals and lab-grown diamonds.They would be positioned as everyday wear jewelry pieces, featuring diamonds that consumers don’t worry about getting nicked, scratched, dented, and dinged. This new class of diamond jewelry would likely be composed of items such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and pendants. BriteCo Prediction 4 — Engagement Rings Swing Back to NaturalWith the commoditization and extreme price gap between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds, consumers might feel that an item so inexpensive cannot be a good representation of lasting love and commitment. Since an engagement ring usually consists of one larger center diamond, consumers may prefer to keep engagement rings natural.One trend that points to this conclusion is the difference in average carat weight for natural and lab-grown diamonds over time. Like many fads, very large lab-grown rings may be seen as a lower status symbol than smaller natural diamonds. Thus, a higher social status may be attributed to natural diamonds by assuming “if you can afford it, you would choose natural diamonds.”At the end of 2024, according to the data, 52.6% of engagement rings sold were with natural diamonds. However, there was a comeback for natural diamonds over the last two quarters heading into 2025 to 57.3%. While too little data has been collected to identify a clear movement in the market, it could be a sign of an early trend. BriteCo Prediction 5 — The Rise of Fancy Colored Lab-Grown DiamondsOutside of brown and yellow diamonds, different diamond colors are exceptionally rare and extremely expensive. While natural diamonds do occur in many colors, truly vivid and intense fancy colors are extremely rare and command very high prices.In contrast, lab-grown diamonds can be produced in vivid colors more consistently and at much less expense. Advances in lab diamond technology enable the creation of diamonds in a broad spectrum of colors — including yellow, blue, pink, green, orange, and even rarer hues like red and purple — with high saturation and vibrancy. This gives consumers many more color options at affordable prices when shopping for lab-grown diamonds, and will likely boost demand in the future. BriteCo The Importance of Jewelry Insurance for Lab-Grown DiamondsClearly, lab-grown diamonds are here to stay and deserve the same protections as natural mined diamonds. While some jewelry owners may rely on standard homeowners or renters insurance, these policies usually come with low coverage limits and exclusions, with covered claims typically limited to theft that occurs inside the home. But there are so many other risks that can affect lab-grown pieces. Comprehensive coverage from a specialized jewelry insurance provider not only covers theft but also damage, loss, and mysterious disappearance that may happen anywhere around the world. Policies can ensure the full replacement or repair cost of the jewelry item, and coverage can come standard with zero deductibles, providing the ultimate peace of mind in case anything happens. As diamond prices continue to fluctuate and the financial value of lab-grown diamonds increases, stand-alone jewelry insurance protects the full financial investment, allowing consumers to forget all the “what if” scenarios and wear all their diamond pieces with confidence.ConclusionLab-grown diamonds have had one of the most disruptive impacts on the diamond jewelry industry in many years. It’s clear that lab-grown diamonds are here to stay and will influence both industry and consumer buying behaviors in the future.About the Report MethodologyFor this report, the researchers utilized BriteCo data from 03/01/2019 through 05/31/2025 to build the analysis. No personal data was employed in creating this analysis. The researchers had detailed information on each piece, but all other personally identifiable information, in accordance with best data practices, was anonymized.This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How sustainable packaging became a brand's most powerful signal in 2026 How sustainable packaging became a brand's most powerful signal in 2026A new survey of 1,000 consumers finds that packaging has stopped being a container and started being a conversation. And most brands are not keeping up.Key Takeaways68% of consumers have changed how they shop specifically to reduce plastic waste.93% would choose the more sustainable-looking product when prices are equal.77% say they trust brands more when packaging appears eco-friendly.53% of Gen Z have stopped buying from brands due to excessive plastic packaging.49% of parents associate eco-friendly packaging with higher product quality.32% of consumers are willing to pay 6-10% more for sustainably packaged products.57% believe brands and manufacturers, not consumers, should lead the effort to reduce packaging waste.Pick up almost any product today and the packaging tells you something before you even read the label. The weight of it, the materials, the amount of empty space inside the box. Consumers have become fluent readers of these signals, and a new survey makes clear just how much they are acting on what they find.For this article, UPrinting, a custom packaging and printing solutions company, surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults in October 2025 to understand how sustainable packaging design is shaping purchase decisions, brand trust, and consumer expectations. The findings are striking, and they carry a clear message for any brand that thinks packaging is just a wrapper.1. Nearly Seven in Ten Consumers Have Already Changed How They ShopThe survey opens with a number that reframes the entire conversation: 68% of consumers have actively changed their shopping habits to reduce plastic waste. This is not a niche behavior. It is a majority position, playing out in grocery aisles, online carts, and brand loyalties across the country.What makes it more significant is what happens when price is removed from the equation. At equal price points, 93% of consumers said they would choose the product with more sustainable-looking packaging. Visual design, not just environmental messaging, is driving decisions. The implication for brands is direct: How custom packaging looks and feels is now as strategically important as what it says.2. Packaging Has Become the Fastest Test of Brand TrustWhen 77% of consumers say they trust a brand more because its packaging appears eco-friendly, packaging has crossed into new territory. It is no longer just a delivery mechanism for a product. It is a credibility signal, evaluated in seconds, before a word of marketing copy is ever read.Consumers are scanning for proof that a brand walks its talk. Minimalist design, right-sized boxes, recycled materials, and honest labeling are all being interpreted as evidence of values. Brands that invest in thoughtful custom packaging design, the kind that communicates responsibility through material and structure rather than just claims, are building trust at the point of first contact. Those that do not are being read just as quickly, and judged accordingly.3. Gen Z Is Voting With Its Wallet, and It Is Not Coming BackAmong Gen Z consumers, the stakes around packaging are not just emotional; they are behavioral. According to the survey, 53% of Gen Z shoppers have actively stopped buying from brands that use excessive plastic packaging. They have already left. And 21% say they always check for sustainability disclosures before making a purchase decision.This generation evaluates custom packaging through a dual lens of design and values. They are reading typography, checking certifications, assessing material quality, and judging the overall coherence between what a brand says and what it ships its products in. For Gen Z, greenwashing is not just off-putting; it is disqualifying. The brands earning their loyalty are the ones whose packaging design makes the sustainability commitment visible and credible from the outside in.4. Eco-Friendly Packaging Now Signals Quality, and Consumers Will Pay for ItPerhaps the most commercially significant finding in the report: 49% of parents associate sustainable packaging with higher product quality. Not just ethical intent. Quality. The definition of premium has quietly shifted, and it no longer looks like glossy finishes or heavy plastic. It looks like restraint, clarity, and materials that feel considered.That perception translates directly to price tolerance. Thirty-two percent of consumers said they are willing to pay 6% to 10% more for a product that comes in sustainably designed packaging. For brands working with a custom packaging partner to rethink their unboxing experience, this is meaningful: Sustainable packaging design is not a cost center. It is a margin opportunity.And the responsibility question has been settled, at least in the minds of consumers. Fifty-seven percent believe brands and manufacturers, not individuals, should lead the effort to reduce packaging waste. The expectation is no longer that customers will make up for poor packaging choices. It is that brands will not make those choices in the first place.The Bottom Line for Brands: Sustainable Packaging is StrategicThe data from this survey does not describe a future trend. It describes a present reality. Consumers have already changed their behavior, already formed their judgments, and already drawn their lines. Packaging, specifically sustainable and intentionally designed custom packaging, is now one of the primary ways a brand communicates its values before a single word of copy is read.The brands that understand this are treating packaging not as overhead but as strategy. The ones that have not may find that the box their product arrives in is quietly costing them the relationship.MethodologyTo understand how consumers approach reducing plastic waste and choosing sustainable alternatives, UPrinting surveyed 1,000 adults across the United States via Pollfish in October 2025. Participants answered questions about their concern around plastic waste, whether they had changed purchasing habits to reduce plastic use, their willingness to pay more for sustainable packaging, and the key factors influencing trust, quality perception, and brand loyalty. Demographic groups were analyzed to identify trends and disparities across age, income, and parental status.This story was produced by UPrinting and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois receive $50,000 donation Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois received $50,000 for their leadership programs from the Bechtel Charitable Trust.
	LivWell Seniors to host educational program for seniors and families LivWell Seniors will hold ‘Moving Confidently Into Your Next Chapter,' an educational program for seniors and their families to assist in future planning.
	Top Arizona lawmaker says he's complied with a subpoena for 2020 election records Arizona's state Senate president says he has complied with a subpoena he received last week seeking records from a flawed, Republican-led review of the 2020 election in Maricopa County.
	Could Ozempic and other GLP⁠-1s help ADHD symptoms? Could Ozempic and other GLP⁠-1s help ADHD symptoms?GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Zepbound have transformed medical treatment for obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Some people with ADHD who take the drugs for other conditions say they feel calmer and more focused while taking these medications.GLP-1 drugs act on parts of the brain that control dopamine and reward. These brain areas are also linked to impulsivity and emotional control in people with ADHD. By reducing food cravings and constant thoughts about eating, GLP⁠-1s may help some people feel more focused. Still, studies have not shown that these drugs improve attention or executive function. These are the main challenges of ADHD. Any improvement may come from indirect effects, like better sleep, weight loss, or placebo effects.There are no clinical trials testing GLP⁠-1 drugs as a treatment for ADHD. And there’s no proof that they can directly improve ADHD symptoms. These medications also have side effects and risks. Experts say these drugs should not replace proven ADHD treatments.One possible reason for this reported improvement in symptoms is the dampening effect GLP-1’s have on thoughts of food or “food noise.” A woman, who was diagnosed with ADHD 12 years ago, spoke to Understood and said she noticed an improvement in her symptoms after starting GLP-1s. She also takes Ritalin, a prescription stimulant medication, off and on to help manage her symptoms, and she sees a cognitive behavioral therapist. But she said that it wasn’t until she started taking Ozempic five years ago that her constant thoughts about food went away. And with them, some of her ADHD symptoms. Now, when she takes a break from her GLP⁠-1 drug, those symptoms return.She isn’t the only one who has noticed a change in her ADHD symptoms while taking a GLP⁠-1 drug. Across social media, people are sharing stories reporting that these drugs have helped them be more productive and in control of their impulses.As more people share their experiences, it’s reasonable to believe that GLP-1s might affect symptoms of ADHD. But so far, there hasn’t been any published scientific evidence that they treat the condition directly. So what’s going on? We spoke to experts to find out.What are GLP-1s and how do they work?Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro can help treat obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and related health conditions.These drugs work by mimicking GLP⁠-1, a gut hormone that helps control appetite and hunger. When you take a GLP⁠-1 drug, your gut sends fewer signals to your brain that it’s hungry throughout the day. GLP-1s also help the body break down blood sugar and slow the movement of food through your stomach.As we learn more about these medications, it’s becoming clear that they can be helpful for people with other health conditions. So far, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said they can be used to treat sleep apnea and serious heart problems.There’s also early research suggesting that GLP⁠-1s may help reduce cravings and compulsive behaviors in some people. There are ongoing studies testing the drugs in people with alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, and nicotine addiction.Quieting ‘food noise’ may ease ADHD symptomsSome people who take a GLP⁠-1 drug to manage health problems related to their weight or diabetes may find that the drug quiets the “food noise” — constant thoughts about food, explained Craig Surman, MD. Surman is the director of the Clinical and Research Program in Adult ADHD and an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.Sugary, fatty, and ultraprocessed foods can trigger the reward systems in our brains. That keeps us coming back for more, even when we’re no longer hungry. GLP⁠-1s may affect those reward centers in the brain and lessen food cravings for many people.“It could be that a GLP⁠-1 is similar to wearing headphones. It reduces some of the distractions because you’re not as focused on hunger cues or wanting your body to be different. It’s so different for everybody,” Surman said.For some people, quieting food-related thoughts allows them to make better dietary choices, which in turn may improve overall health and some ADHD symptoms. Some report that before taking a GLP-1, they struggled to finish tasks because they were constantly thinking about food. After starting the medication, they noticed that the "food noise" disappeared—along with the self-criticism that often accompanied it.What the research says about GLP⁠-1s and ADHDOne reason GLP⁠-1s may have a positive effect on ADHD symptoms may have to do with the way it affects dopamine, a brain chemical that makes us feel pleasure.Dopamine interacts differently with ADHD brains compared to non-ADHD brains. People with ADHD tend to have difficulties with motivation, attention, and impulse control, in part because their brains are seeking ways to get more dopamine.Some research suggests that GLP⁠-1 drugs can change how dopamine is released and can affect parts of the brain that help us control our impulses and regulate our emotions. In some studies done in mice, they changed the way that reward systems light up when the mice eat.But human brains and mouse brains are different, and ADHD is complex. There are no studies yet that test whether changes in dopamine from taking a GLP⁠-1 drug actually make a difference in human behavior. “If what worked in mice always worked in humans, we’d have cured lots of diseases,” Surman said.Plus, as far as scientists know, there are no GLP⁠-1 receptors on parts of the brain that deal with some of the main problems of ADHD, like attention and executive function, explained David Goodman, MD, PhD. Goodman is an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.Some people may find that the drugs help with impulsivity symptoms. But they may continue to have issues with attention, motivation, or executive function.That means it’s unlikely that the drugs will be a useful standalone ADHD medication, Goodman said. But they may be helpful for treating a small group of common ADHD symptoms.It’s possible, he said, that someone could take a stimulant medication to improve their core ADHD symptoms. And a GLP⁠-1 drug could help manage some of the other symptoms that remain. A lot of research would need to be done to know whether that would work and who might benefit.Need for more researchFor some people, the benefits of taking a GLP⁠-1 drug are clear. But just because some people see ADHD-related benefits, that doesn’t mean GLP⁠-1s work for everyone with ADHD. Some studies have even found that some people start noticing symptoms of ADHD after starting a GLP⁠-1 drug.In psychiatry studies, the placebo effect shows up a lot. That’s when the symptoms of someone’s condition improve when they take what they think is a medication for that condition but actually isn’t. If your ADHD symptoms improve after you take a GLP⁠-1 drug, it could be that the drug has an effect that scientists don’t yet understand. Or it could be the placebo effect. More research is needed to know for sure.Surman said that sometimes, when people notice that their ADHD symptoms are improving, it’s because their health is getting better overall. For example, someone with sleep apnea who loses weight while taking a GLP⁠-1 may start sleeping better. That may lead to better attention throughout the day.There are no active studies testing the effects of GLP⁠-1s on ADHD, according to clinicaltrials.gov, the government’s database for clinical trial information. It’s not clear if any researchers are planning to study this topic in more depth. If they do, it’ll probably take years to see results.“It’s remarkably early for any kind of prime-time clinical consideration,” Goodman said. “I know the internet and social media influencers and everybody create this buzz. … But in the absence of science, it’s hard to recommend these medications [for ADHD], especially without safety reviews in these patients.”Is it dangerous for people with ADHD to take GLP⁠-1s?Both ADHD medications and GLP⁠-1s can support your health. But it’s important to check in with your body as you use them to avoid harmful effects.Stimulant medications can make some people have a smaller appetite. If you take both a GLP⁠-1 and a stimulant, you might not feel the need to eat as much as you need to. That could cause you to lose too much weight. Or your blood sugar levels could get too low.Side effects of GLP-1 drugs include digestive issues, headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms that could make it harder to function throughout the day.Taking a GLP-1 drug shouldn’t affect how your ADHD medications work. GLP⁠-1 drugs slow down the movement of food through your stomach, and many ADHD medications come as a pill. But Goodman said that most ADHD drugs are designed to release slowly. Most people shouldn’t have problems with them.Anyone using a GLP-1 drug should make sure they get it prescribed through a trusted health care provider. GLP⁠-1s can help you become healthier, but only if you eat the right nutrients and get enough exercise. Working with a nutritionist or dietitian can make that easier, Surman said.“Folks with ADHD generally have a hard time following through on independent homework,” Surman said. It can be hard to stay on top of planning meals, cooking, and exercising regularly. He recommends finding an accountability buddy. This might be a friend you do weekly errands with. Or it could be a physical trainer who can help you set an exercise schedule.“We know that brains do better when they’re fed and rested, and when the body’s been moved and exercised,” Surman said. “I hope the opportunity of GLP⁠-1s is not to change just one aspect of a person, but for a healthier brain lifestyle, too.”Bottom lineThere are some reasons to think that GLP⁠-1s could help you manage your ADHD symptoms. They could quiet “food noise” and boost your overall health.But there’s not enough research to know whether the drugs affect attention or executive function. There’s not enough research to recommend GLP⁠-1s as a treatment for ADHD. GLP-1s should not replace tried-and-true ADHD assessments and treatments.If you’re curious about how GLP-1s may impact your ADHD symptoms, talk to your health care provider. They’ll be able to help you come up with the right treatment plan for your whole health.Additional reporting by Renée Fabian.This story was produced by Understood and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why hard drive prices are rising and what it means for your video storage Why hard drive prices are rising and what it means for your video storageFor years, storage has been the predictable part of video surveillance. You sized up the recorder, set your retention period, and forgot about it. If the system was recording, everything seemed fine.However, things are changing.Demand for hard drives is growing, and most of that demand is coming from AI and large data centres, which require enormous amounts of storage.Major manufacturers have confirmed that most of their HDD production is already committed to these buyers. Western Digital — a leading global manufacturer of data storage solutions — has said its 2026 output is mostly covered by firm purchase orders from major customers, with agreements even stretching beyond that.Hard drives have not disappeared, and manufacturing is continuing — but allocation has tightened, and as a knock-on effect, pricing has responded accordingly.For industries that depend on hard drives for storage, including video surveillance, this may represent a problem. With that in mind, Videoloft examined what's driving the shift and how organizations can adapt.Surveillance has always been storage dependentHigher resolutions, longer retention times, and increasing camera counts mean today’s surveillance systems are producing more data than they have in the past.In online communities, including forums like Reddit, users have been asking why hard drives are “suddenly becoming so expensive in 2026.” In one thread, a Redditor puts it simply: “AI requires data centres. Data centres require hard drives.”These are engineers and IT professionals who regularly buy hardware. The fact that they’re raising the same concerns shows how apparent the problem has become.In an average NVR system, storage is purchased at the start. You decide how many days of footage you need, estimate how much data your cameras will use, and buy enough hard drive space to cover it.If you need more storage later, you can buy more drives or upgrade the system.When hard drive prices were stable, and supply was predictable, you could plan confidently, knowing the hardware would be available and roughly the same price next quarter as it was today.When prices rise or lead times stretch, that predictability reduces. Budgets start to move, and expansion timelines slow down, not because your system has failed, but because the hardware behind it is less predictable.The problem isn’t technology, it’s rigidityOn-premise storage assumes that storage needs won’t change too much, and that hardware will always be available when required.But businesses don’t stand still — sites expand, camera counts increase, and retention expectations shift. Each change means more storage, and more storage means more hardware.A different way to think about surveillance storageAs hard drive supply becomes more volatile, is it time to reassess how video storage is handled? Across the board, businesses are looking to reduce their dependence on physical hardware like NVRs.Cloud-based storage is one alternative some organizations are exploring. With cloud storage, there are no hard drives to buy, and therefore no vulnerability to supply issues or price hikes.Demand for hard drives is unlikely to disappear. Data centre growth continues. This doesn't mean that NVRs will stop working tomorrow, but it does mean storage is no longer as simple as it once was.For organizations reviewing their surveillance strategy, it may be time to ask whether storage should remain fixed and hardware based, or whether it should become something more flexible.What should you do next?With storage becoming more unpredictable, how can you respond sensibly and not be caught short?These are some practical steps you can take now:1. Protect the drives you already haveHard drives are sensitive to power quality. Sudden spikes, drops, or unstable supply can shorten their lifespan.Surge protectors are useful, but they don’t protect against power outages. A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) may be a better option. It keeps power delivery consistent and provides temporary backup during outages, helping to extend your hard drive’s life and reduce the risk of corruption.2. Maximise the storage you already haveNot every system needs to record at its maximum settings. Storage use is directly influenced by things like frame rate, resolution, bitrate, and retention period. You could try reducing the frame rate slightly — for example, from 3 fps to 15 fps in noncritical areas — which can considerably reduce storage use without affecting usability.3. Use edge storage as a failoverIt’s worth checking if your cameras support a microSD card for onboard recording. This will allow footage to be stored directly on the camera, so if your recorder fails or the network drops out, the camera can record locally. For smaller systems with just a few cameras, edge storage might be sufficient on its own. Supply of MicroSDs isn’t under the same pressures as HDDs, meaning this might be a practical solution in certain situations.4. Decrease hardware dependency altogetherMany organizations are considering whether storage should remain tied to physical devices.The global cloud storage market is projected to grow from 197.8 billion in 2026 to 809.99 billion by 2034, and it’s not hard to see why. Cloud-based storage removes the need to purchase drives and respond to fluctuating HDD pricing. Capacity can scale as your needs change, rather than being fixed at installation.At a time when high-capacity hard drive production is being allocated to AI and data centres, this flexibility becomes an important advantage.Hard drives aren’t disappearing, and security systems will still continue to work, but storage is no longer as predictable as it once was.Organizations that plan ahead — either by protecting their existing hardware or moving towards more flexible storage solutions — will be better placed as the market changes.This story was produced by Videoloft and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What to know about Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's new supreme leader The second son of the late supreme leader keeps a low profile. But he's long been viewed as wielding his power behind the scenes, from crushing dissent to influencing presidential elections.
	A 2026 guide to AI optimization: What it is, why it matters, and how to get cited A 2026 guide to AI optimization: What it is, why it matters, and how to get citedYour customers are asking ChatGPT for recommendations. Meanwhile, you’re still obsessing over Google rankings.That’s the new reality. AI search is eating into traditional search traffic, and most businesses haven’t caught up.For those unsure where to begin, these AI optimization FAQs provide a starting point. This guide from WebFX covers the fundamentals of AI optimization, including what it is, how it works, and how to increase brand visibility in AI-generated responses.Let’s get down to brass tacks.AI optimization basics FAQsBefore diving into tactics and tools, it helps to understand what AI optimization actually is and why it is crucial for your business. Learn the fundamentals with these AI optimization FAQs.1. What is AI optimization?AI optimization is the practice of optimizing your content so AI-powered platforms can find, understand, and cite it when generating answers. This includes AI search engines like Perplexity and SearchGPT, AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini, and AI search features like Google AI Overviews.The goal goes beyond just ranking. AI optimization aims to get your brand mentioned, cited, or recommended in AI search.2. What is AEO?Answer engine optimization (AEO) focuses on making your content easy for AI-powered answer engines to understand, trust, and cite when responding to user questions. Unlike traditional SEO that optimizes for page rankings, AEO optimizes for answer readiness.Key AEO tactics include:Structuring content with clear headings and direct answers near the top.Using scannable formats like lists, tables, and definitions.Implementing strategic schema markup (FAQ, HowTo, Article).Adding original data, expert commentary, and firsthand experience.3. What is GEO?Generative engine optimization (GEO) is the practice of optimizing your website content to appear in generative AI search results, including Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity. The focus is on increasing visibility in AI-generated responses, not just traditional search rankings.As AI reshapes how users search, GEO helps ensure your brand shows up where your audience is actually looking.4. What’s the difference between AEO and GEO?AEO and GEO overlap significantly, but have slightly different emphases:AEO focuses on getting cited by answer engines that pull direct answers from the web.GEO focuses on appearing in generative AI responses that synthesize information from multiple sources.In practice, most businesses need both. AEO ensures your content is citation-ready. GEO ensures you’re visible across the full spectrum of AI-powered search experiences. Many marketers use the terms interchangeably since the core tactics align.5. How is AI optimization different from SEO?Traditional search engine optimization (SEO) focuses on ranking pages in the search engine results page (SERP). AI optimization focuses on getting cited in AI-generated answers. Here’s how they compare: WebFX 6. Is AI optimization replacing SEO?No. AI optimization extends SEO; it doesn’t replace it. Traditional SEO remains foundational because:AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity pull from indexed, well-ranked content.Google AI Overviews heavily favor pages with strong organic rankings.Technical SEO (crawlability, structured data, site speed, mobile-friendliness) still affects AI discoverability.SEO gets you indexed and ranked. AI optimization gets you cited and recommended. You need both to stay visible as search evolves.7. Do I need AI optimization?It depends on your industry, goals, and how much you rely on organic search. But for most businesses, the answer is yes.You likely need AI optimization if:Your industry has high AI Overview trigger rates.Your audience already uses AI tools like ChatGPT or Gemini for research.You depend on organic search for leads or sales.Your competitors are already showing up in AI-generated answers.Data analyzed by WebFX in 2025 showed that 1 in 4 U.S. searches triggered an AI Overview, and generative AI traffic is growing fast. Building visibility before AI results become saturated is a key consideration for maintaining search presence.AI search engines and platforms FAQsChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, AI Overviews… the list keeps growing. These common questions about AI optimization break down where your audience is searching and which platforms deserve your attention.8. What AI search engines should I optimize for?Focus on the platforms your audience actually uses. According to a 2025 survey of AI users conducted by WebFX, usage favors a few platforms:ChatGPT: 75.4%Gemini (Google): 63.8%Microsoft Copilot: 38.6%Claude (Anthropic): 9.8%Perplexity: 8%Platforms like Claude and Perplexity have smaller but loyal audiences, particularly for research-heavy and complex reasoning tasks. Start with the big players, then expand based on where your specific customers spend time.9. How do Google AI Overviews work?Google AI Overviews use generative AI to synthesize information from multiple web sources into a single, summarized answer at the top of the search results. When triggered, the AI pulls relevant content from indexed pages, summarizes key points, and displays source links beneath the response.Based on a 2025 study of 2.3 million keywords, AI Overviews appear more often for:Informational queriesLong-tail searches with seven or more wordsYMYL topics like health, finance, and educationTo appear in AI Overviews, your content needs strong organic rankings, a clear structure, and direct answers to user questions.10. What’s the difference between AI Overviews and featured snippets?Both appear at the top of Google search results, but they work differently: WebFX Featured snippets quote your content directly. AI Overviews paraphrase and combine information from several sources. You can appear in both, but AI Overviews require your content to be structured for AI comprehension, not just keyword targeting.11. Do I need to optimize for every AI platform?No. You don’t need platform-specific strategies for every AI tool. Core AI optimization tactics (like clear content structure, authoritative sourcing, and schema markup) improve visibility across most platforms simultaneously.AI ranking factors FAQsGetting cited by AI isn’t random. Specific signals influence whether your content gets pulled into AI-generated answers. The questions on AI optimization here focus on the ranking factors that actually drive those citations.12. What are the main AI search ranking factors?AI search engines evaluate content differently from traditional search. Research indicates that the most impactful AI ranking factors across platforms include:Online reputation: AI platforms favor brands with strong reviews, ratings, and mentions on review sites, directories, and social media.SEO fundamentals: Sites that rank well in organic search appear more often in AI results.Website authority: Quality backlinks, brand mentions from reputable sources, and original research signal trustworthiness to AI systems.Large language models (LLMs): Different AI platforms use different LLMs (GPT-4, Gemini, Claude), which affects how they generate responses and select citations.The weight of each factor varies by platform. Google AI Overviews lean heavily on organic rankings, while ChatGPT places more emphasis on brand mentions and online reputation.13. Does domain authority matter for AI visibility?Yes, but not in isolation. Domain authority (DA) reflects your site’s overall backlink strength and trustworthiness. AI platforms don’t use DA as a direct ranking factor, but the signals that build DA also influence AI visibility:Sites with higher authority tend to rank better organically, which increases AI Overview citation chances.Authoritative domains get mentioned more often across the web, which AI models recognize during training.Quality backlinks signal credibility, making AI systems more likely to trust and cite your content.Think of domain authority as a proxy. It doesn’t directly cause AI citations, but the same factors that build DA (quality content, backlinks, brand recognition) also improve your AI visibility.14. What is E-E-A-T, and why does it matter for AI?E-E-A-T stands for experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness. Google uses this framework to evaluate content quality, and it directly impacts AI visibility. WebFX For AI optimization, E-E-A-T is essential because AI systems are designed to surface trustworthy, accurate information. Content that demonstrates real experience and expertise stands out in a sea of generic, AI-generated material.15. Do backlinks help with AI citations?Yes. Backlinks remain one of the strongest signals of content authority, and that authority influences AI visibility in several ways.Organic rankings: Backlinks boost your search rankings, and higher-ranked pages are more likely to be cited in AI Overviews.Brand recognition: Links from reputable sites increase your brand mentions, which AI models pick up on.Trust signals: AI platforms favor content from sites that other authoritative sources reference.Quality matters more than quantity. A few backlinks from respected industry publications or news sites carry more weight than dozens of low-quality directory links. Focus on earning links through original research, expert commentary, and genuinely useful content to improve your chances of being cited directly by AI answer engines.16. How do online reviews and brand mentions affect AI visibility?Online reputation is one of the top AI ranking factors. AI platforms favor brands with strong online reviews, ratings, and brand mentions, especially for “best of” and recommendation queries.When users ask ChatGPT or Perplexity for recommendations, these tools often pull from review platforms like Google Business Profile, G2, Yelp, and Capterra. The more your brand is mentioned positively across review platforms, the more likely AI systems are to recognize and cite you.Improving AI visibility through online reputation involves maintaining reviews on relevant platforms and responding to feedback. For local businesses, a strong Google Business Profile with consistent positive reviews is associated with appearing in AI-powered local results.How to optimize for AI search FAQsUnderstanding AI optimization is one thing. Actually doing it is another. These frequently asked AI optimization questions get into the practical tactics that help your content get cited, not just indexed.17. How do I optimize content to get cited by AI?AI systems look for content that’s easy to understand, clearly structured, and backed by credible signals. Take the following steps to improve your chances of getting cited.Structure for scannability: Use clear headings that mirror how users phrase questions, lead each section with a direct answer, then expand with details. Break up content with bullet points, numbered lists, and tables.Demonstrate expertise: Add original data, case studies, and firsthand experience. You can also create author bios with credentials and cite reputable sources to support your claims.Optimize for entities, not just keywords: Define key terms clearly — AI systems need to understand what you’re talking about. You should also cover related concepts and questions within the same content and use consistent terminology throughout your site.Build authority signals: Earn backlinks from reputable sites, get mentioned on review platforms and industry publications, and maintain a consistent brand presence online.The goal is to make your content the most credible, comprehensive, and easy-to-parse answer for the questions your audience is asking.18. How do I get cited in ChatGPT?ChatGPT pulls information from its training data and, with browsing enabled, from live web sources. These strategies may help you to increase your chances of getting cited in ChatGPT.Build brand recognition: ChatGPT favors well-known brands that appear frequently across the web. Invest in PR, guest posts, and industry mentions.Get mentioned on platforms ChatGPT references: This includes Reddit, Quora, Wikipedia, and major publications. User-generated discussions often influence AI recommendations.Create definitive, comprehensive content: ChatGPT tends to cite sources that provide thorough, authoritative answers rather than thin or generic content.Optimize for Bing: ChatGPT’s browsing feature pulls from Bing’s index. Strong Bing SEO can improve your visibility in ChatGPT responses.Keep in mind that ChatGPT doesn’t always cite sources, and when it does, the citations can be inconsistent. Focus on building overall brand authority rather than optimizing for ChatGPT specifically.19. How do I rank in Google AI Overviews?Google AI Overviews pull from pages that already perform well in organic search. These steps may help you to improve your chances of appearing: WebFX Focus on being a comprehensive answer, not just ranking for the keyword.20. What is structured data, and do I need it for AI?Structured data (also called schema markup) is code you add to your website that helps search engines understand your content. It labels elements like FAQs, how-to steps, products, reviews, and organizational information in a standardized format.Structured data for AI helps by:Making your content easier for AI systems to parse and extract.Increasing your chances of appearing in rich results and AI Overviews.Clarifying relationships between entities (your brand, products, authors, topics).The most useful schema types for AI optimization include:FAQ: Question-and-answer contentHowTo: Step-by-step guides and tutorialsArticle: Blog posts and news contentOrganization: Company information and brand detailsProduct: E-commerce and product pagesReview: Customer reviews and ratingsStructured data alone won’t get you cited, but it removes friction and helps AI systems understand what your content is about.21. How do I optimize for conversational queries?AI users search differently from traditional Google users. Instead of typing fragmented keywords, they ask complete questions in natural language. To optimize for conversational queries: WebFX The shift toward conversational search means your content should read like a helpful expert answering questions, not a keyword-stuffed page.22. What content formats are most effective for AI optimization?AI systems favor content formats that are easy to parse, extract, and summarize. The most effective formats include:FAQ pages: Question-and-answer structure aligns perfectly with how AI generates responses.How-to guides: Step-by-step content gets cited for instructional queries.Comparison tables: AI can easily extract and present structured comparisons.Definitions and glossaries: Clear explanations of terms help AI understand and cite your contentListicles: Numbered or bulleted lists are easy for AI to scan and summarize.Formats that tend to perform less well:Long, unbroken paragraphs without a clear structureHeavily promotional content with little to no informational valueAn effective approach is matching your format to the user’s search intent. If someone asks “how to,” give them steps. If they ask “what is,” give them a definition. If they want options, give them a comparison.23. Can I optimize old content for AI search?Yes. Updating existing content is often faster and more effective than creating new pages from scratch. Here’s how to optimize old content for AI:Audit for structure: Add clear headings that match common questions, break long paragraphs into scannable sections, and insert lists, tables, and definitions where appropriate.Update for accuracy and freshness: Replace outdated statistics with current data, remove references to old trends or discontinued products, and add recent examples and case studies.Enhance for E-E-A-T: Add author bios with credentials, include firsthand experience and original insights, and cite reputable, up-to-date sources.Implement schema markup: Add FAQ, HowTo, or Article schema if not already present, and ensure your schema matches the actual content on the page.Check your rankings: Prioritize updating pages that already rank in positions 5-20. These pages have authority but may need optimization to break into AI Overview citations.Content refreshes can deliver faster results than new content because the page already has backlinks, authority, and indexing history.24. How do I build topical authority for AI search?Topical authority means becoming the go-to source for a specific subject area. AI systems recognize and favor sites that demonstrate deep, comprehensive expertise on a topic. To build topical authority: WebFX AI looks for this pattern over time, not in a single post.AI visibility and tracking FAQsTracking AI visibility isn’t as straightforward as checking your Google rankings. Let’s get into how to measure what’s working and prove value to stakeholders.25. How do I track AI visibility, and what tools should I use?AI visibility tracking requires a mix of manual checks and specialized tools since there’s no single dashboard that shows where your brand appears across all AI platforms. Here’s how to approach it.Manual monitoring:Run test prompts in ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Google to see if your brand gets mentioned.Search for your target keywords and note which sources get cited.Track findings in a spreadsheet weekly or monthly to spot trends.Tools for AI visibility tracking and what they measure:Google Search Console measures AI Overview impressions and clicks (under the Search Appearance filter).Semrush tracks keywords triggering AI Overviews and whether your pages appear.Ahrefs shows pages appearing in AI Overview SERPs.Google Analytics 4 (GA4) measures referral traffic from AI platforms (with custom channel setup).Start with manual checks to understand your baseline, then layer in tools as your AI optimization efforts scale.26. Can I track traffic from ChatGPT or Perplexity?Yes, but it requires setup in Google Analytics 4 (GA4). AI platforms don’t show up in standard traffic reports by default.Here is how to track AI referral traffic in GA4:Go to Admin > Data Display > Channel Groups.Click Create new channel group.Add a new channel called “Generative AI.”Use this regex to track traffic sources:^(meta\.ai\|perplexity\.ai\|perplexity\|chat\.openai\.com\|claude\.ai\|chat\.mistral\.ai\|gemini\.google\.com\|bard\.google\.com\|chatgpt\.com\|copilot\.microsoft\.com\|anthropic\.com\|deepmind\.com\|deepseek\.com)(\/.*)?$Exclude these sources from your Referral channel to avoid double-counting.Save and set as your primary channel group.View AI traffic in your reports:Go to Reports > Acquisition > Traffic acquisition.Change the primary dimension to Session default channel group.Look for “Generative AI” as a traffic source.Add a secondary dimension, like Session source or Landing page, for deeper analysis.Note: It may take 15-30 minutes for GA4 to start showing data after setup.27. How do I measure AI optimization success?Traditional metrics like rankings and traffic don’t fully capture AI visibility. Instead, track a combination of presence, engagement, and impact signals: WebFX Start with presence metrics to establish your baseline, then layer in engagement and impact tracking as your AI visibility grows.28. How do I prove AI optimization ROI to leadership?AI attribution isn’t as clean as paid media or traditional SEO, which makes proving ROI challenging. Use a “then, now, next” framework to build your case: WebFX Position AI visibility metrics as leading indicators. Just like early SEO efforts focused on rankings before traffic, AI optimization builds presence before revenue attribution catches up.29. How do I know if my competitors are ranking in AI search?Competitive monitoring in AI search requires manual testing and the right tools. Here’s how to track where your competitors show up.Manual competitive checks:Run prompts for your target queries in ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity.Note which brands get mentioned or cited.Test “best [product/service] for [use case]” queries to see recommendation patterns.Tool-based tracking:Semrush can compare AI Overview presence across domains.Ahrefs shows which competitor pages appear in AI Overview SERPs.Key questions to answer:Which competitors appear in AI Overviews for your target keywords?Who gets cited most often in ChatGPT or Perplexity for your category?What content formats are competitors using that earn AI citations?Track this monthly to spot trends. If competitors are gaining AI visibility while you’re stagnant, that’s an early warning sign to accelerate your optimization efforts.AI optimization strategy and planning FAQsYou’ve got the tactics down. Now comes the harder part: figuring out where to focus. The following questions on AI optimization help you prioritize, plan, and pivot your efforts where they’ll have the most impact.30. How do I create an AI optimization strategy?Start with your existing SEO foundation, then layer in AI-specific tactics. Use the AI visibility ladder as your framework. Each step builds on the last, moving from basic visibility to becoming a go-to source AI platforms cite and recommend.Step 1: Foundation (traditional SEO)Ensure your site is crawlable, mobile-friendly, and fast.Use clear, keyword-rich H1s, structured headers, and internal links.Submit and maintain your sitemap.Step 2: Relevance (align with AI search context)Use long-tail keywords that reflect how users ask questions.Structure content using BLUF format (bottom line up front).Add FAQ sections with schema to match AI Overviews.Step 3: Trust (strengthen E-E-A-T signals)Add author bios with credentials and experience.Link to high-authority third-party sources.Keep content updated with fresh, accurate information.Step 4: Influence (earn mentions and external signals)Encourage reviews on G2, Trustpilot, and Google Business Profile.Earn PR placements and backlinks from authoritative sources.Engage in relevant Reddit threads and industry forums.31. Should I create different content for different AI platforms?No. You don’t need platform-specific content strategies. The core tactics that improve AI visibility work across most platforms simultaneously:Clear content structure with direct answers.Strong E-E-A-T signals (experience, expertise, authority, trust).Schema markup for better content interpretation.Backlinks and brand mentions that signal authority.Where platforms differ is in what they emphasize:Google AI Overviews focuses on organic rankings, structured content, and schema markup.ChatGPT looks at brand mentions, Bing rankings, and online reputation.Perplexity relies on source authority, citation-ready formatting, and recency.Gemini focuses on Google index, E-E-A-T signals, and comprehensive coverage.Focus on creating high-quality, authoritative content for your topics. If your content is structured well and backed by strong authority signals, it will perform across platforms without needing separate versions.32. Can small businesses compete in AI search?Yes. AI search rewards relevance and authority, not company size.Here’s where small businesses can win.Niche topical authority: AI platforms favor depth over breadth. A specialist with comprehensive content on one topic often outperforms generalists covering everything superficially.Authentic E-E-A-T signals: Real owners with real expertise and real customer relationships demonstrate experience that’s hard to fake at scale.Reviews and online reputation: AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google AI Overviews pull heavily from review sites when recommending services. Strong reviews on Google Business Profile, Yelp, and industry-specific platforms directly influence AI recommendations.Faster content updates: Small teams can refresh content and respond to AI visibility gaps faster than large organizations with complex approval processes.You can compete effectively with these best practices:Focus on your specific niche rather than trying to cover everything.Build topical authority with in-depth, data-informed content.Invest in reviews and actively respond to customer feedback.Create content demonstrating genuine firsthand experience.If you’re struggling in AI search, the problem usually isn’t your team size — it’s generic, thin content that doesn’t showcase your expertise.33. How do I optimize for local AI searches?Use the AMP method to structure your local AI optimization strategy: WebFX Research conducted by Yext in 2025 found that 86% of AI citations for local search queries come from brand-influenced sources like your website and business listings. That means you have direct control over most of what AI says about your business locally.34. What industries are most affected by AI search?AI Overviews and AI-generated answers appear more frequently in some industries than others. According to WebFX’s study of 2.37 million keywords, these industries see the highest AI Overview trigger rates:Health: 51.6%Family and community: 39%Jobs and education: 33%Finance and insurance: 32.1%These industries are most affected because of:High volume of informational queries (“what is,” “how to,” “symptoms of”).YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) topics where Google prioritizes authoritative answers.Complex decision-making processes where users seek guidance.If you’re in a high-trigger industry, AI optimization isn’t optional. Your competitors are likely already appearing in AI answers for queries your customers are asking.AI optimization challenges and mistakes FAQsEven well-planned AI optimization strategies hit roadblocks. These AI optimization FAQs call out the most common mistakes, troubleshooting tips, and how to protect your brand as AI search evolves.35. What are the biggest AI optimization mistakes?Most businesses make the same errors when starting with AI optimization.Ignoring traditional SEO: AI platforms heavily favor content that already ranks well organically. If you skip SEO fundamentals, AI won’t be able to find and cite your content.Creating content without clear answers: AI systems extract direct answers to serve users. Burying your main point under lengthy intros gets you ignored. Structure content with the answer first, details second (BLUF format).Neglecting E-E-A-T signals: Missing author bios, credentials, citations, or data sources hurts your credibility. Outdated content that hasn’t been refreshed signals low trustworthiness.Blocking AI crawlers: Some businesses unknowingly block AI bots in their robots.txt file. If AI can’t crawl your content, it can’t cite you.Chasing platforms instead of quality: Trying to game individual AI systems rather than creating genuinely authoritative content wastes effort. The tactics that work across platforms are the same: clarity, authority, and trust.36. Why isn’t my content showing up in AI results?If your content isn’t appearing in AI-generated answers, check these common issues.Crawlability problems: AI crawlers may be blocked in your robots.txt file. Check for bots like ChatGPT-User, GPTBot, PerplexityBot, and Google-Extended. Again, if blocked, AI can’t access your content to cite it.Weak organic rankings: Strong SEO foundations are still vital for AI visibility. If you’re not ranking organically, AI likely won’t find you either.Content structure issues: Answers buried deep in the page, missing clear headings that match common questions, or no schema markup to help AI parse your content can all hurt visibility.Low authority signals: Few or no quality backlinks, limited brand mentions in articles, reviews, and forums, or missing reviews on platforms that AI references (Google Business Profile, G2, Yelp) reduce your chances of being cited.Content doesn’t match query intent: Your content may answer a related question, but not the specific one users are asking. AI platforms prioritize content that directly addresses user queries. Run manual checks in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google to see what’s being cited, then reverse-engineer what those sources are doing differently.37. How do I protect my brand reputation in AI search?AI platforms pull information from across the web, which means inaccurate or negative content can surface in AI-generated answers. Here’s how to protect your brand.Control the controllable: Most AI citations for local queries come from sources you control, like your website and business listings. Keep your website, Google Business Profile, and directory listings accurate and up-to-date.Monitor AI responses: Regularly search for your brand in ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, and Google AI Overviews. Document what AI says about your business and track changes. Use AI visibility tools to automate monitoring.Build positive signals: Actively collect customer reviews on Google, Yelp, and industry platforms. Respond to all reviews, positive and negative. Earn mentions and backlinks from authoritative sources.Address inaccuracies: If AI is surfacing incorrect information, identify the source. Update your owned properties with accurate information. Create content that directly addresses and corrects misconceptions.Strengthen E-E-A-T: Publish expert content with clear author attribution. Cite credible sources and include verifiable data. Keep content fresh and accurate.38. Should I block AI crawlers from my site?In most cases, no. Blocking AI crawlers means your content can’t be cited in AI-generated answers, which reduces your visibility as AI search grows.Here’s what blocking means in practice:AI platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and others won’t be able to read your content.You won’t appear in their responses, even if you have a highly relevant answer.Competitors who allow crawling will get cited instead.That said, blocking might make sense in a few scenarios:You have proprietary content you don’t want summarized or reproduced.You’re concerned about AI training on your copyrighted material.Your business model depends on users visiting your site (though blocking may reduce that traffic over time).Keep this trade-off in mind:Blocking AI crawlers means missing a fast-growing discovery channel.Users who find you through AI tend to be high-intent.You can check your current settings by:Reviewing your robots.txt file for disallow rules targeting AI bots.Looking for these common AI crawler names: GPTBot, ChatGPT-User, PerplexityBot, Google-Extended, Anthropic-AI.For most businesses, the visibility benefits of allowing AI crawlers outweigh the risks.AI optimization timeline and results FAQsInvesting in AI optimization raises fair questions about timeline and ROI. These AI optimization questions help set realistic expectations for what AI visibility can deliver and when.39. How long does AI optimization take to see results?AI optimization timelines depend on your starting point and the platforms you’re targeting.For Google AI Overviews: Results can appear within weeks if you already rank organically. If you need to build organic rankings first, expect four to six months.For ChatGPT and other LLMs: ChatGPT’s training data updates periodically, not in real-time, so changes to your content may take months to reflect in its responses. However, ChatGPT Search (with web browsing) can surface current content faster.For Perplexity: Perplexity searches the live web, so changes can appear quickly. Strong authority signals and recent content tend to get cited faster.Factors that speed up results: Already ranking in the top 10 organically, strong existing backlink profile and brand mentions, clear content structure optimized for AI citation, and active reviews on platforms that AI references.Factors that slow results: Starting from scratch with SEO, low domain authority, and content that doesn’t directly answer common queries.AI optimization is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. The businesses seeing results fastest are those building on strong SEO foundations.40. What results can AI optimization drive?AI optimization can impact multiple business metrics.Visibility and brand awareness: Your brand gets mentioned when AI answers relevant questions, increasing share of voice in your industry and exposing you to users who may never click through to a website.Traffic: AI Overviews and answer engines include source links, and users who click through tend to be further along in their research. AI traffic is currently small but growing significantly faster than organic.Conversions: Users arriving via AI have already received context about your business, making them higher-intent visitors who are closer to a decision.Competitive positioning: Early movers gain visibility before competition intensifies, and being cited by AI builds credibility and trust. Competitors who ignore AI search lose visibility to those who optimize.What to track: Brand mentions in AI responses (manual checks or AI visibility tools), traffic from AI sources in Google Analytics (ChatGPT, Perplexity referrals), AI Overview impressions in Google Search Console, and share of voice compared to competitors.41. Does AI traffic convert better than organic traffic?Yes. A WebFX study found generative AI traffic converts 23% better than traditional organic search traffic.There are a few reasons AI traffic converts better.Pre-qualified visitors: Users have already received information about your business from AI before clicking.Higher intent: AI users often ask specific questions, indicating they’re further in their research.Better context: AI provides summaries and comparisons, so visitors arrive more informed.Fewer tire-kickers: The extra step of being cited by AI filters out casual browsers.There’s a trade-off to consider:AI traffic volume is still small compared to organic.Early investment positions you for larger returns as adoption increases.To measure AI traffic performance:Set up a custom “Generative AI” channel in GA4 to track referrals from ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other AI platforms.Compare conversion rates between AI traffic and other channels.Monitor engagement metrics (time on site, pages per session, bounce rate).42. Can AI-generated content rank in AI search results?It can, but human-created content has advantages.AI search platforms tend to prioritize:Unique insights, original research, and firsthand experience.Content demonstrating genuine expertise (E-E-A-T signals).Accuracy, specificity, and verifiable information.Fresh perspectives that add value beyond what’s already available.AI-generated content often falls short in key areas:Lacks original insights or unique data.Can miss the nuance and specificity that comes from real expertise.May contain inaccuracies that hurt credibility.Tends to rehash existing information rather than adding new value.The practical approach is to blend both:Use AI as a tool to assist content creation, not replace human expertise.Add original research, case studies, and expert commentary.Include specific examples from real experience.Verify all facts and cite credible sources.Have subject matter experts review and enhance AI drafts.Google and other platforms are getting better at identifying low-value AI content. The businesses seeing the most success in AI search are those combining AI efficiency with genuine human expertise.AI optimization costs and resources FAQsBefore you invest, you need to understand the costs involved. These questions about AI optimization walk through typical budgets, the tools and resources involved, and whether to build in-house or partner with experts.43. How much does AI optimization cost?AI optimization costs vary based on your approach. Here are some of the current market ranges we’re seeing across agencies and tool providers in 2026.If you’re going the DIY route with tools:Basic AI writing and AI SEO tools: Free, or $10-$50 per monthAdvanced AI and SEO tools: $60-$250 or more per monthAI visibility tracking software: $50-$1,000 or more per monthCustom enterprise software: This type of software usually requires custom pricing due to the need for deep integrations and a more complex setup and use.If you’re working with an agency:GEO services typically range from $1,500 to $50,000 or more per month.Pricing depends on business size, website complexity, and strategy scope.Enterprise-level campaigns with multiple platforms cost more.Several factors influence cost:Strategy scope: This is the size of your website, your unique goals, and the number of pages you want to create or optimize. The larger and more complex the strategy, the higher the cost.In-house management: Hiring a team of GEO experts and investing in third-party tools and platforms will incur extra costs.Agency partnership: Your chosen agency and its pricing packages will determine your overall costs.Tools and software: The tools and platforms you use can add to your investment.44. What tools do I need for AI optimization?You don’t need every tool on the market. Start with essentials and expand based on needs.Essential (free or low-cost):Google Search Console (track AI Overview impressions)Google Analytics 4 (monitor AI referral traffic)Manual visibility tracking in ChatGPT, Perplexity, or GeminiFor SEO foundations:Keyword research toolTechnical SEO crawlerReadability checkerFor AI visibility tracking:AI visibility tools that monitor brand mentions across LLMs.Options include dedicated platforms or features within existing SEO tools.For content optimization:Schema markup generatorAI writing assistantsContent optimization toolsFor advanced needs:Comprehensive AI visibility tracking across AI platforms.Competitor benchmarking tools.Custom GA4 dashboards for AI traffic attribution.45. Do I need to change my website for AI optimization?Not necessarily. Most AI optimization builds on existing SEO best practices.You likely already have (or should):Clear site structure and navigation.Mobile-friendly, fast-loading pages.Quality content targeting relevant keywords.Basic schema markup.Changes that help AI optimization:Content structure: Lead with direct answers, use clear headings that match common questions.Schema markup: Add FAQ, HowTo, Article, and LocalBusiness schema where relevant.Author attribution: Add author bios with credentials and experience.Crawlability: Ensure AI bots aren’t blocked in robots.txt.You probably don’t need:A complete website redesign.New technology or platforms.Separate content for different AI systems.Focus areas by priority:High priority: Content structure, schema markup, and E-E-A-T signals.Medium priority: AI crawler access, internal linking, and content freshness.Lower priority: Platform-specific optimizations (most tactics work across AI systems).If your site follows modern SEO best practices, you’re already partway there. AI optimization is about refinement, not reinvention.46. Should I hire an agency or do AI optimization in-house?It depends on your resources, expertise, and goals.In-house might be the right fit if:You have dedicated SEO/marketing staff with bandwidth.Your team can stay current on rapidly changing AI search trends.You have a budget for tools and ongoing training.Your optimization needs are straightforward.An agency might make more sense if:You lack in-house AI/SEO expertise.You need faster results and can’t afford a learning curve.You want access to proprietary tools and data.You need a comprehensive strategy across multiple platforms.Your industry is highly competitive in AI search.Before signing with an agency, ask these questions:What AI platforms do you track and optimize for?How do you measure AI visibility and ROI?What proprietary tools or technology do you use?Can you show case studies or results from similar businesses?The future of AI search FAQsAI search isn’t slowing down. Standing still in AI search means falling behind. These questions on AI optimization help you anticipate what’s coming and prepare your business for the next wave of changes.47. How will AI search evolve in 2026 and beyond?AI search is still in early stages, and several AI trends are shaping its future:AI is becoming part of the daily tech stack. WebFX 2025 research found:1 in 3 people now use AI multiple times per day, alongside tools like email and traditional search.65% use AI for research and fact-finding, putting AI in direct competition with Google Search.ChatGPT and Gemini command 85% of AI tool usage, with loyalties consolidating around a few leaders.Traditional search is integrating more AI:Google continues expanding AI Overviews and AI Mode.Bing is deepening Microsoft Copilot integration.Expect AI-generated answers to appear in more query types.New AI browsers like Atlas, Comet, and Dia are combining search, summarization, and task completion with native AI integration.Specialized AI search is on the rise:Vertical-specific AI tools for shopping, travel, healthcare, and B2B research.ChatGPT’s shopping features and in-chat purchasing.AI agents that can complete tasks, not just answer questions.Conversational and multimodal search is expanding:Younger generations already search more conversationally (Gen Z averages 5.83 words per query versus shorter queries from older generations).Voice search, image search, and video search powered by AI.Multiturn conversations are replacing single queries.Search is fragmenting across platforms:Users are searching across Google, ChatGPT, Perplexity, TikTok, Reddit, and social platforms.No single platform will dominate all discovery.An omnichannel SEO approach becomes essential for comprehensive visibility.Some things will stay the same:Quality content, authority, and trust remain foundational.E-E-A-T signals are critical regardless of the platform.Businesses with strong brands and reputations have advantages.48. Will zero-click search kill my website traffic?Zero-click searches are increasing, but they won’t kill website traffic entirely.Here’s the reality:Research from Bain in late 2024 found that 60% of searches now end without users clicking on a website.For informational queries, especially, users often get answers without clicking.Context matters, though:Transactional and commercial queries still drive clicks.Users researching complex decisions often visit multiple sources.AI citations can drive highly qualified traffic.Brand visibility in AI answers builds brand awareness even without clicks.You can adapt by:Focusing on queries where users need more than a quick answer.Optimizing for AI citation to capture visibility even in zero-click scenarios.Building brand recognition so users seek you out directly.Diversifying traffic sources (email, social, paid, referral).Tracking metrics beyond traffic: brand mentions, share of voice, and assisted conversions.There are still opportunities here:Being cited in AI answers positions you as a trusted source.Users who do click through are more qualified.Early optimization builds an advantage as AI search grows.Zero-click search changes the game, but it doesn’t end it. The businesses that adapt will find new ways to capture value.49. Does AI use my content to train its models?It depends on the AI system and your settings.Here’s how AI training works:Large language models (LLMs) like GPT are trained on massive datasets that may include web content.Training happens periodically, not in real-time.Once trained, the model uses that learning to generate responses.There are a few things you can control:Robots.txt: You can block AI crawlers from accessing your site (though this also prevents citation).Terms of service: Some AI companies respect opt-out requests.Common AI bots: This includes GPTBot, ChatGPT-User, Google-Extended, Anthropic-AI, and PerplexityBot.The trade-off is worth understanding:Blocking AI crawlers prevents your content from being used for training.But it also prevents your content from being cited in AI responses.You lose visibility in a fast-growing channel.There are risks to consider:52% of respondents in a 2025 McKinsey survey cite intellectual property infringement as a risk of AI.AI may summarize or paraphrase your content without direct attribution.Legal frameworks around AI and copyright are still evolving.For most businesses, the visibility benefits of allowing AI access outweigh the training concerns. Focus on creating content that builds your brand when cited, and monitor how AI represents your business to address inaccuracies.50. How should I prepare my business for AI-powered search?Start now, but don’t abandon what’s working.Start with your foundation:Strengthen your SEO fundamentals (technical health, content quality, backlinks).You can’t skip SEO and expect AI visibility.Build your content for AI citation:Structure content with clear, direct answers.Add schema markup (FAQ, HowTo, Article, LocalBusiness).Strengthen E-E-A-T signals (author bios, credentials, citations).Create content that demonstrates genuine expertise and experience.Invest in your reputation:Collect reviews on Google Business Profile, industry platforms, and review sites.Earn backlinks and brand mentions from authoritative sources.Engage in relevant communities (Reddit, industry forums, social platforms).Monitor your visibility and adapt:Track your AI visibility across platforms.Set up GA4 to measure AI referral traffic.Run regular manual checks in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews.Watch what competitors are doing and how AI cites them.Think omnichannel:AI search is one part of a fragmented discovery landscape.Adopt an omnichannel SEO approach that covers traditional search, AI platforms, and social discovery.Don’t put all your eggs in one search basket.To win in AI search, you can’t sit back and “see what happens.” You have to treat AI optimization as part of your core SEO program while the field is still relatively open.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	‘Stage is shifting rapidly’ for high schools: Are states helping them keep up? ‘Stage is shifting rapidly’ for high schools: Are states helping them keep up?The rise of artificial intelligence and other technology has traditional high schools scrambling to keep up, with states doing an uneven job of encouraging schools to embed critical thinking skills and offer students access to internships and college courses, according to a new report reviewed by The 74.Today’s world, the nonprofit XQ Institute argues in its new report The Future Is High School, “requires an entirely new kind of educational experience — one that traditional high schools were never designed to deliver.”“We live in an age of self-driving taxis, blockchain, and renewed interest in space exploration. The public launch of ChatGPT placed a powerful form of generative artificial intelligence (AI) within the reach of every American,” the report continued. “But that stage is shifting rapidly. Our young people are growing up at a time when the economy and workforce are in constant flux. And high schools must keep pace.”Schools not only need to emphasize work and early college experiences, XQ found, but also teach interpersonal and thinking skills as much as academics.“What do we need to know when we leave our high school doors?” asked XQ CEO Russlynn Ali. Math, English and science are still important, she said.“But layered on top of that, we need to be critical thinkers,” Ali said. “We need to be able to collaborate. We need adaptability. We need these skills that will help us succeed in life, no matter what direction we choose after we leave high school.”XQ wants states to encourage schools to follow the lead of Purdue Polytechnic High School in Indianapolis or the Museum High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where students learn academics and interpersonal skills through projects, not lectures. Another standout: Oakland, California’s Latitude High School, where every 10th grader follows an adult through a work day to learn about the job, 11th graders have month-long internships and older adults can choose to do a longer one.The new report takes a different approach from XQ’s previous work, which has centered on schools.“States have more responsibility and authority over their schools than certainly in recent memory, if not in my lifetime,” Ali said. “They must be the locus of change.” XQ Institute States are mixed, however, XQ reports in the new study, on how they are succeeding in meeting 10 goals XQ considers key to school innovation. XQ met with school leaders across the country to create the goals — and then researched how much progress each state and Washington D.C. has made toward them:46 states have met the goal of offering work experience, such as internships, as credit toward high school diplomas.38 states give every student a chance to earn college credit before graduating, by taking Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or college classes.32 states give schools the ability to award students class credit under a mastery or competency system, showing they know the material, instead of just attending a class.32 states have identified key skills students need to learn for the future, including nonacademic skills XQ has made a major part of its work, such as teamwork, critical thinking and problem solving. States often created a “Portrait of a Graduate” spelling these out.Just 10 states — Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Utah and Washington — met six of the goals; and no state met all 10, though 31 met at least four. Two states — Alaska and Florida — met only two of the goals.Two of XQ’s goals — finding ways to measure how well students have learned interpersonal and thinking skills, then showing those on report cards — haven’t been realized by any state.XQ plans to track changes and update the report every two years for the next decade.“I think of these as a start, definitely not a finish line,” Ali said.To highlight the 10 policy goals and encourage states to adopt them, XQ is planning to visit schools and policymakers in 25 communities, likely over the next two years. Details of that tour, which starts March 4 in Indianapolis and stops in Columbus, Ohio, the week after, are still being developed.XQ, a nonprofit and affiliate of investing and philanthropic firm Emerson Collective, was cofounded by Ali and Laurene Powell Jobs. Powell Jobs is Emerson’s founder and president, and wife of the late Apple founder Steve Jobs.XQ has been refining its vision for redesigning high schools since launching in 2015 with a well-publicized campaign to identify and support innovative “Super Schools” across the country. It gave a total of $102 million in 2016 to 18 schools — including the schools mentioned above — before expanding its work to 28 states.XQ’s vision has its critics, who say it overstates how much jobs will change in the future and who are unsure if XQ’s priorities are the best way to prepare students. But school districts and several states, including Indiana, Rhode Island and Utah, agree with the approach and are open in their support.Utah’s state superintendent, Molly Hart, said the state rarely adopts any national approach, but there is great overlap in what XQ promotes and the state’s push to redesign high schools, including the support of mastery teaching approaches and requiring students to earn a meaningful professional credential before graduating.”We align closely when you look at some of the goals and policy actions that XQ does,” she said. “We have a lot of similarities in what we’re looking at.”The report, and shorter reports XQ released for individual states, also highlight policy changes and efforts already in place that XQ considers “beacons” for change. Among them:Indiana: For giving schools increasing flexibility in giving students class credit for showing proficiency in a subject, rather than just sitting through a class all semester or year.Rhode Island: For changing diploma requirements so that all students, beginning in 2028, must take the courses in math, foreign language and even art that qualify them to attend college.“Our kids were not even taking the classes to be able to apply to those schools,” said state education commissioner Angelica Infante-Green. “Once they got there, they were in remedial courses because we weren’t preparing them for college-level achievement.”Texas: For allowing students to earn 12 hours of college credit in high school, either through college, AP or International Baccalaureate classes.Colorado: For encouraging the growth of CareerWise high school apprenticeships, the largest youth apprenticeship program in the country. Colorado also broke career preparation into three categories — Learning ABOUT Work, Learning THROUGH Work, and Learning AT Work.Utah: For giving schools grants to train teachers how to educate students using a mastery/competency approach and how to rate student progress. Utah also backed some schools in trying out vastly different report cards — keeping the traditional A-F grade scale, but also giving students a new Mastery Learning Record that shows their progress on durable skills.Ali said XQ also wanted to highlight two goals that haven’t been met yet, but that she considers vital — developing tests to measure how well students have learned key nonacademic skills and then changing student report cards to rate students on those skills.Ali said the standardized tests states use to measure student skills in math, English and science offer some sense of what students know, but are outdated. There’s no clear way yet to assess how well students have mastered durable skills to prove to colleges or employers that they have those skills. And Ali said that schools tend to prioritize learning the state measures and judges them on, so schools won’t teach them vigorously until they are part of report cards and school ratings.But XQ recognized 12 states for trying to develop those tests and report cards, six of them for participating in a pilot project with the Educational Testing Service, the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Mastery Transcript Consortium (now part of ETS). The Skills for the Future project has been working to create tests on durable skills, starting with three: collaboration, communication and critical thinking.XQ is not part of this effort but partners with Carnegie on some related work and says it enthusiastically backs it.The Skills for the Future team, which includes Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Nevada, Rhode Island and Wisconsin, is still working on creating new tests but recently broke down each of those three skills into smaller skills as one step toward creating tests.Communication, for example, is broken down into segments — presentation skills, making messages more clear, adapting messages for different audiences or comprehending the communication of others — that are then broken down further into sub-skills.Infante-Green said measuring these skills will be a “game changer.”“I think it will give employers things that they have been looking for, as well as change how we teach, what we teach, and how we incorporate (those skills) into the academic field,” she said. “It’s important. It won’t be one or the other, it’ll be both.”Ali also stressed that just passing policy changes won’t be enough. Schools, teachers and parents need to also be on board.“It’s not a checklist,” Ali said. “It has to be implemented in a way that is sustained and empowering and supportive of what needs to happen in the classroom.”Disclosure: XQ provides financial support to The 74.This story was produced by The 74 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Do you get heart palpitations when lying down? Do you get heart palpitations when lying down?Whether you’re getting ready for bed or looking for a quick respite from the day, lying down is supposed to be the first step toward rest and relaxation. A few things can (and tend) to get in the way of that: kids, work, stress — for some, it’s heart palpitations.This uncomfortable feeling in your chest can be alarming. But the good news is that it’s most often no cause for concern. If you experience heart palpitations when you lie down, Northwell Health shares what you should know.What are heart palpitations?Heart palpitations are an abnormal fluttering, racing or pounding of the heartbeat. They can occur at different times for different reasons.Experiencing heart palpitations at night can affect sleep, leaving patients wondering, "Why does my heart beat fast when I lie down?"Why do I get heart palpitations when lying down?Lying down in certain ways presses the stomach and chest cavity together, putting pressure on the heart and blood flow and increasing circulation. The easiest fix for this is simply to change position.In some cases, heart palpitations may be caused by other health conditions, including stress, anxiety, dehydration, low potassium or low blood sugar.Other causes include:Too much caffeine — beyond 400 milligrams, or about 4 cups of coffee’s worth, in one dayHormonal changes, such as those associated with menopause or birth controlCertain prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, like decongestants, amphetamines and beta blockersAnemia — a low red blood cell countHyperthyroidism — an overactive thyroid gland resulting in excessive hormone productionHow do I stop heart palpitations when lying down?Most causes of heart palpitations are easily treated with simple lifestyle changes. Things to try:Don’t drink caffeineQuit smokingUse deep breathing and meditation to reduce stress and anxietyDrink plenty of water to avoid dehydrationEat a well-rounded diet that includes fruits and vegetablesAvoid skipping meals, as this causes abrupt drops in blood sugarAvoid prescription or over-the-counter drugs that may aggravate the issue (before making any changes, talk to your doctor)Heart palpitations and underlying health conditionsAddressing the above causes and making corresponding lifestyle changes may do the trick for some. If you continue to have heart palpitations, it may signal a more serious health condition.Arrhythmia: Heart palpitations that occur with regularity can be classified as arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. Arrhythmia is often harmless; some patients, however, will suffer serious side effects. Speak to a cardiologist if you are concerned about your heart.Heart defect: Abnormalities in the structure of the heart and its components can impair its ability to beat and pump blood, causing palpitations. Defects known to cause heart palpitations include:Mitral valve prolapse: A heart valve that opens and closes opposite its intended direction.Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A thickening of the heart’s muscle tissue.Cardiac arrest: Sudden, intense palpitations often occur right before cardiac arrest, a complete stop of the heartbeat. This is an immediate life-threatening emergency that can cause death within minutes if not treated.When to see a doctorHeart palpitations are often harmless, coming and going with no lasting consequences. However, if you experience any of these symptoms regularly along with rapid heartbeat, contact your doctor:Shortness of breathDizziness or nauseaChest painFaintingProlonged fatigueSwollen feetDepending on your symptoms, your doctor may order tests like an electrocardiogram, stress test or CT scan.This story was produced by Northwell Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Report: Chiefs legend Travis Kelce returning to Kansas City for a 14th season One of the greatest players in Kansas City Chiefs history is on board for another season.
	Charley Crockett playing Rhythm City Casino in June Charley Crockett and special guest Sierra Hull are bringing his Age of the Ram Tour to Rhythm City Casino, 7077 Elmore Avenue in Davenport, on June 25. Tickets are on sale online here or at The Market at Rhythm City. Grammy Award–nominated artist Crockett announced an extensive 2026 run of tour dates this week. He [...]
	This historian dug up the hidden history of 'amateur' blackface in America In her new book, Darkology, historian Rhae Lynn Barnes writes about how blackface and minstrel shows became one of the most popular forms of entertainment in 19th- and 20th-century America.
	How water filtration systems improve water quality How water filtration systems improve water qualityFiltration plays a vital role in ensuring the water we use every day is clean, safe, and enjoyable. Home water sources can contain contaminants that have entered the water either at its source or on its journey to your home, many of which can be detrimental to your health when consumed.By removing impurities such as sediment, harmful microbes, and chemicals, water filtration systems enhance the overall quality and safety of your water.In this guide from Ingram's Water & Air Equipment, you will learn about different types of filter systems — from activated carbon to reverse osmosis — and the unique benefits each method provides.SummaryWater contaminants can have adverse health effects and include microbial, chemical, physical, and radiological contaminants.Water can become contaminated through both natural processes and human-induced causes.Risks associated with water contamination include gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, organ damage, and more severe health complications.Types of water filtration systems include activated charcoal filters, reverse osmosis systems, UV purifiers, mechanical filters, and ion exchange softeners.Benefits of using a water filtration system include reduced health risks, improved taste and odor, and multiple environmental benefits.To choose the right water filter for your home, you must test your home water, identify present contaminants, and compare filter models and providers.What Are the Common Contaminants Found in Drinking Water?The most common types of water contaminants present in drinking water can be split into four categories:Microbial contaminants: These include microorganisms like bacteria and viruses, such as E. coli, Giardia, and noroviruses.Chemical contaminants: These comprise both organic and inorganic chemicals, microplastics, disinfectant by-products, and more.Physical contaminants: Physical impurities tend to be visible particles, such as sediment, dirt, debris, and organic matter.Radiological contaminants: These encompass both naturally occurring radioactive substances, like radium and uranium, and artificially produced substances, such as runoff from nuclear power plants.How Does Water Become Contaminated?There are many ways water can become contaminated, through both natural and human-induced processes. Water contamination can occur either at the initial water source or during its journey to your faucets.Common causes of water contamination include:Agricultural runoff, such as nitrates from soil fertilizers.Industrial pollution.Manufacturing by-products.Decomposition of organic matter, including decaying plants and animals.Sewer overflow.Septic system disruptions.Soil or rocks that naturally contain chemicals like arsenic and chlorine.What Are the Health Risks Associated With Contaminated Water?There are numerous short- and long-term health risks associated with consuming contaminated water, including:Gastrointestinal illnesses: Many contaminants found in water can cause gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, cholera, and dysentery.Skin problems: Skin issues caused by contaminated water can range from mild to severe, and include fungal infections, rashes, and infections that can lead to life-threatening illnesses, such as sepsis.Organ damage: High consumption of water containing heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful impurities can lead to kidney and liver damage, among other potentially fatal issues.Types of Water Filtration Systems and How They WorkThere are many types of water filtration systems to choose from that utilize varying technologies or methods to remove different contaminants. Ingram's Water & Air Equipment Activated Carbon FiltersActivated carbon filters are one of the most common types of water filters. They effectively remove an array of contaminants from household water, including:Organic substances and sediment.Some heavy metals, such as magnesium.Agricultural chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides.Other chemicals and chemical compounds, such as chlorine and hydrogen peroxide.Activated carbon filters work by separating contaminants from water through adsorption. The carbon used to create this type of water filter is specially processed to make it porous and capable of catching — or adsorbing — toxins and impurities. As contaminated water flows through an activated carbon filter, the contaminants bind to the porous carbon as the clean water flows through it.Benefits of activated carbon filters:No electricity required: Adsorption is a passive process that requires no electricity, meaning these filters remain functional even when a power supply is unavailable.Effective contaminant reduction: Carbon filters remove a wide range of contaminants, reducing the health risks associated with drinking impure water.Improved taste and odor: By removing an array of chemicals and substances, activated carbon filters can improve the smell and taste of your drinking water.Disadvantages of activated carbon filters:Unsuitable for hot water: Carbon filters are limited to treating cold water, as hot water can damage the filter material and reduce its effectiveness.Cannot remove all contaminants: Although they can remove many substances from water, activated carbon filters cannot remove microorganisms or viruses, such as bacteria, nitrates, or many heavy metals, including mercury.Reverse Osmosis SystemsReverse osmosis systems effectively remove a high percentage of toxins from contaminated water. Toxins that can be removed or reduced by reverse osmosis include:Many heavy metals, such as arsenic, hexavalent chromium, and copperOrganic compounds, such as pesticidesSedimentMicroplasticsFluorideNitratesDissolved materials, such as saltsBacteriaThe steps to removing impurities by reverse osmosis are as follows:Before coming into contact with the reverse osmosis membrane, contaminated water is directed through prefilters to remove larger particles, such as sediment and organic matter, that could block or damage the membrane.Once the larger molecules have been filtered out, a high amount of pressure is applied to the water, pushing it toward the system's semipermeable membrane.The membrane has microscopic holes that are too small for any toxins or contaminants to pass through. As the water is forced against the membrane, only water passes through it.The contaminants left behind are then expelled from the system and disposed of as wastewater.Benefits of reverse osmosis filtration systems:High contaminant removal: Reverse osmosis can remove up to 99% of impurities and toxic substances from contaminated water.Ability to block microscopic impurities: The semipermeable membrane in reverse osmosis systems can block microscopic particles and soluble contaminants that other filtration systems cannot remove.Disadvantages of reverse osmosis:Reliance on additional filters: To protect the membrane, the reverse osmosis process requires additional filters, which can incur extra costs and maintenance.Ultraviolet (UV) PurifiersUV purifiers are particularly effective at removing or disarming microorganisms that exist in water, including bacteria, viruses, and mold. For example, they can inactivate:GiardiaSalmonellaStreptococcusCholeraFungiHepatitis BDysentery bacilliE. coliThe steps to removing impurities using UV purification are as follows:Contaminated water passes through prefilters, which remove sediment and larger molecules that might obstruct the UV and prevent it from reaching the microorganisms.The filtered water enters a chamber that is specially equipped with a UV lamp.The lamp emits UV-C light, which penetrates the cells of microorganisms in the water and damages their DNA, essentially killing them and rendering them incapable of reproducing. This limits their ability to cause disease or illness when consumed.Benefits of UV purifiers:No chemicals: UV-C light disinfects water without using any chemicals, meaning no chemical by-products remain in the water after decontamination.Sustainable process: UV purifiers are an eco-friendly filtration option as they create minimal water waste.Effectively neutralizes microorganisms: By disarming almost every type of microorganism, UV purifiers can make contaminated water much safer to drink and dramatically reduce the risk of bacterial and viral illnesses.Disadvantages of UV purifiers:Dependence on electricity: UV lamps require electricity to function and therefore cannot be used in instances where power is unavailable, such as during an outage.Reliance on prefilters: Similar to reverse osmosis systems, UV purifying systems require prefilters, which can incur additional costs and maintenance.Mechanical FiltersMechanical filters effectively separate physical contaminants and some larger microbial contaminants from water. Depending on the size of a filter's pores, a mechanical filter can remove:SedimentDirtOrganic wasteLarger microorganisms, such as GiardiaA mechanical filter acts as a physical barrier for contaminants. As water flows through the filter, contaminants that cannot fit through its pores are separated from the water.Depending on the micron rating of mechanical filters, they can filter out a range of particle types and sizes. The lower a filter's micron rating, the smaller its filtration holes are, and the smaller the particles it can separate from water. For example, a mechanical filter with a rating of 5 microns can filter out particles like dirt and dust, while a filter with a rating of 0.5 microns can filter out much smaller particles, such as viruses.Mechanical filters are generally used as a prefilter for other filtration methods, rather than being relied on as a primary water filter.Benefits of mechanical filters:Removes solid particles: Mechanical filters effectively remove larger contaminants that might otherwise damage more delicate filters or negatively affect the taste of water.Simple design: The function of these filters is straightforward, making them an inexpensive, low-maintenance option.Disadvantages of mechanical filters:Ineffective: Aside from large, physical contaminants, mechanical filters are incapable of removing a wide array of harmful pollutants, including most chemical contaminants and many smaller microbes.Reliance on other filters: For thorough water filtration, mechanical filters need to be used in addition to other, finer filters.Ion Exchange FiltersIons are atoms that have either a positive or negative electrical charge, due to having an unequal number of protons and electrons. When ions are present in water, they can affect its taste and quality.Ion exchange filters effectively remove a wide range of dissolved minerals and other ions, including:PotassiumMagnesiumSodiumCalciumNitrateFluorideChlorideHeavy metals, such as mercuryMany of these ions contribute to the hardness of water, and ion exchange filters are a type of water softener. They work by substituting hard ions for soft sodium ions. Hard water flows into a chamber that contains resin beads coated with sodium. As hard water passes through this chamber, the unwanted ions, such as calcium and magnesium, bind to the resin, displacing the sodium ions and releasing them into the water instead.Benefits of ion exchange softeners:Extends plumbing and appliance lifetime: By removing hard water ions, ion exchange softeners prevent mineral buildup in pipes and appliances, minimizing maintenance requirements, improving efficiency, and extending lifespan.Enhances water quality: Softer water often tastes better and is healthier for your skin and hair, as hard minerals can cause irritation and strip away our natural oils.Disadvantages of ion exchange softeners:Removal limitations: Ion exchange filters cannot remove harmful microorganisms or physical contaminants, and are therefore not a comprehensive water filter option.Removal of beneficial minerals: While hard minerals can be detrimental to water quality, low levels of healthy minerals can be beneficial in water Ingram's Water & Air Equipment Benefits of Using a Water Filtration SystemEach type of filter has its advantages. The overall benefits of using a water filtration system are undeniable, with positive impacts on our health, the environment, and the taste of drinking water.Reduced Health RisksUsing a water filter or a combination of filtration systems can reduce the health risks associated with using or consuming contaminated water. The health benefits of using water filters include:Reduced risk of waterborne illnesses: By removing microbial contaminants, water filters reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as Giardia and E. coli. This decreases the risk of waterborne gastrointestinal issues and other illnesses.Reduced risk of organ damage: By removing heavy metals and chemicals from contaminated water, many water filters effectively reduce the risk of developing organ damage and other life-threatening health issues.Healthier skin and hair: By removing harmful chemicals and hard minerals, water filters can reduce damage to your skin and hair.Stronger immune system: Filtered water that is free from contaminants and toxins can improve immune system function.Improved Taste and OdorContaminants often blemish the taste and smell of unfiltered water. By removing a range of impurities, chemicals, and unwanted substances, water filters can improve the taste and odor of your drinking water. This makes drinking water a more enjoyable experience and supports healthier hydration habits.Environmental and Economic BenefitsBy improving water quality, water filtration systems can benefit the environment and limit your costs by reducing reliance on bottled water, increasing appliance efficiency, and more.Environmental benefits of water filtration systems include:Reduced reliance on plastic: The production and disposal of plastic water bottles contribute significantly to environmental pollution, and limiting their use can improve your carbon footprint.Increased appliance efficiency: By reducing the buildup of chemicals, hard water ions, and other harmful substances, water filters can increase the efficiency and lifespan of your appliances and water systems. This decreases energy consumption, replacements, and maintenance costs.Lower energy bills: By increasing the efficiency of your appliances, water filtration systems can lead to long-term energy savings.How to Choose the Right Water Filter for Your HomeAs you now know, different filters are designed to remove or reduce different contaminants. From filter pore size to filtration technology, there are many options to consider when choosing your new water filtration system.If you want to improve your home's water quality and invest in a filter, follow these steps to determine which type of water filtration system is best suited to your home.1. Test Your WaterTo ascertain which type of filter you need, it is essential to identify the types of contaminants present in your home's water. Contact your local health department for guidance on testing your water and how to find a state-certified lab to do the testing for you2. Compare OptionsOnce you know which contaminants to remove from your water, you can start comparing filters. Consider these factors when comparing filters:Micron rating: Depending on your filtration requirements and the size of contaminants you're removing, you need to determine how fine your filter and its pores must be.Brand certifications: Purchase systems from companies certified by organizations, like NSF, WQA, or IAMPO.System type: Determine whether you need a whole-house system or an under-the-sink filter just for drinking water.Maintenance requirements: Different filtration systems require different standards of upkeep. Try to choose a system that aligns with your maintenance preferences.Cost: Depending on their type and scale, water filtration system costs can vary dramatically between models.3. Arrange InstallationTo ensure optimal performance of your new water filter, proper installation is essential. While you can install some water systems at home yourself, more complex filtration systems require professional assistance. For these types of systems, try to purchase your filter from a company that provides installation support and contractor assistance.Frequently Asked QuestionsHere are some other common questions about water filtration.How do water filtration systems remove contaminants?Methods for contamination removal depend on the type of water filtration system. For example, while UV purifiers use UV-C light to kill unwanted microorganisms, mechanical filters simply separate larger contaminants from water using a physical barrier with small holes or pores.Is it better to buy bottled water or a water filter?It is always optimal to invest in a water filter instead of relying on bottled water. The production and disposal of plastic bottles are major sources of pollution. Reliance on bottled water is not only detrimental to the environment, but it is also much less cost-effective in the long run.Is it OK to drink reverse osmosis water every day?Yes, it is generally safe to drink reverse osmosis water every day. Water that has been filtered using a reverse osmosis system is free from harmful contaminants. However, due to its high level of effectiveness, reverse osmosis can also remove beneficial minerals from water, such as calcium. Provided you are consuming healthy minerals from other sources in your diet, drinking reverse osmosis water daily is perfectly safe.ConclusionInvesting in the right water filtration system is an essential step to ensuring your household water is safe to use and consume. By removing harmful contaminants, such as microorganisms, chemicals, and physical impurities, water filters can reduce the health risks associated with drinking contaminated water and enable you to enjoy the benefits of cleaner, high-quality water.If you want to reduce your reliance on bottled water and reap the rewards of having clean water in the home, investing in an effective water filtration system is an excellent option.This story was produced by Ingram's Water & Air Equipment and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad-Cities gas prices rise 60 cents in one week, could continue to rise Gas in the Quad-Cities is up 65.2 cents per gallon compared to a month ago, and 20 cents per gallon higher than one year ago, according to GasBuddy.
	2 displaced and family dog rescued after Davenport house fire The Davenport Fire Department responded to heavy fire conditions at house in the 1400 block of South Concord Street.
	How gas prices have changed in the U.S. in the last week Mar. 9, 2026 jittawit21 // Shutterstock How gas prices have changed in the U.S. in the last week Mar. 9, 2026 CheapInsurance.com compiled statistics on gas prices in the U.S. using data from AAA. Gas prices are current as of March 9.U.S. by the numbers- Gas current price: $3.48- Week change: +$0.48 (+16.0%)- Year change: +$0.39 (+12.6%)- Historical expensive gas price: $5.02 (6/14/22)- Diesel current price: $4.66- Week change: +$0.89 (+23.5%)- Year change: +$1.02 (+28.1%)- Historical expensive diesel price: $5.82 (6/19/22)States with the least expensive gas#1. Kansas: $2.92#2. Oklahoma: $2.97#3. Missouri: $2.99#4. Arkansas: $2.99#5. Mississippi: $3.00#6. Tennessee: $3.04#7. North Dakota: $3.04#8. Nebraska: $3.04#9. Louisiana: $3.04#10. Alabama: $3.05States with the most expensive gas#1. California: $5.20#2. Washington: $4.63#3. Hawaii: $4.52#4. Nevada: $4.21#5. Oregon: $4.21#6. Alaska: $3.92#7. Arizona: $3.86#8. Pennsylvania: $3.59#9. Michigan: $3.58#10. Illinois: $3.52This story was produced by CheapInsurance.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cost-saving benefits: Tips to show the business value of preventative care Cost-saving benefits: Tips to show the business value of preventative careThe resignations you avoid.The burnout you catch early.The conflicts you resolve before they escalate.Much of the value that employee benefits, and HR teams in general, bring is preventative. So when the time comes to show that tangible value to business leadership, it can be a challenge.To shift the narrative when presenting to a C-Suite, including a CFO, it’s important to reframe our investments. Cost-saving benefits are not "perks" but strategic tools for risk mitigation and cost containment. Spring Health shares how to elevate your strategy—and your reputation—from reactive to proactive.The financial impact of HR’s "quiet wins"In finance, value is loud—a closed deal or a shipped product. In HR, value is quiet—the absence of noise. These "quiet wins" are the backbone of stability but are hard to measure without a strategy. Early intervention prevents costs that can quickly spiral.For example, untreated depression raises health costs by 149%. Without timely mental health support, everyday stress can escalate into costly claims, absenteeism, or disability. Cost-saving benefits act as a firewall, preventing higher costs like productivity loss and turnover expenses.High turnover not only drains budgets but also disrupts morale and institutional knowledge. Benefits that support employees, such as child care, stress management, or navigating health challenges, help retain talent and foster stability. These aren’t soft metrics; they’re measurable, controllable costs through proactive investment.What cost-saving benefits actually look likeTo make this concept concrete for your CFO, you need to move beyond generalities. You need to point to specific interventions that yield measurable returns. Here is what cost-saving benefits look like in practice within mental health.Fast access to support with measurable ROIWhat it is: A mental health solution that connects employees to care in days, not weeks, while using data to match them with the right provider.What it prevents: Escalating medical claims, extended leaves of absence (LOA), and presenteeism (employees working but not productive).What HR can track: Proven reductions in time-to-appointment, measurable improvements in functional recovery scores, and a verifiable return on investment through cost savings and increased productivity.Proactive manager trainingWhat it is: Equipping managers to spot the early signs of burnout and giving them the language to have supportive conversations.What it prevents: Regrettable attrition and team instability. People often leave managers, not companies. A supported manager retains their team.What HR can track: Retention rates by manager and "manager effectiveness" scores from engagement surveys.Early LOA identification and supportWhat it is: A system to identify teams or roles with high rates of unplanned leave and intervene with targeted support before a leave request is filed.What it prevents: The operational disruption of unplanned absences and the cost of temporary backfills.What HR can track: Year-over-year trends in unplanned LOA incidence and duration.Why traditional ROI metrics undervalue HR’s impactThe challenge with proving HR’s value isn't that the value doesn't exist. It is that they are often judged on lagging indicators.Attrition is a lagging metric. By the time you measure it, the employee is already gone. The cost has already been incurred. If you only report on what has already happened, you will always be seen as reactive.To prove you are a strategic partner, you can introduce the concept of a CFO-ready HR Value Scorecard. This approach moves the conversation from "what happened?" to "what are we preventing?"A strong scorecard connects four elements:Business outcomes: The high-level goals the C-suite cares about (e.g., operational continuity, customer retention).Leading indicators: The early warning signals that predict those outcomes (e.g., unplanned absence trends, employee thriving scores).Interventions: The specific cost-saving benefits or programs you are deploying to move the needle.ROI hypothesis: What you expect to happen as a result.Speaking a CFO's languageYou have the data. You have the right programs. Now you need the right language.When presenting to finance, drop the HR jargon. Avoid talking about "engagement" or "happiness" in isolation. Instead, use the language of the C-suite: risk mitigation, trend control, and workforce stability.Instead of: "We need this mental health tool because our people are stressed."Try: "We are seeing a correlation between high stress levels and unplanned leaves in our sales division. This represents a significant operational risk. By investing in earlier access to care, we aim to mitigate this risk and protect revenue continuity."Instead of: "We want to improve our benefits package to be competitive."Try: “To address rising healthcare costs, we need to invest in solutions that drive meaningful results. An enhanced EAP offers proven ROI by improving employee wellbeing, reducing absenteeism, and lowering overall healthcare spend through early intervention and preventative care.”Three tips to help you re-position HR for its cost-saving benefits:Identify the business priority: Ask your finance partner what the top three risks the CEO is worried about this year are.Map benefits to risks: Draw a direct line between your cost-saving benefits and those risks. (e.g., Mental health support maps to productivity and retention).Propose with a hypothesis: Never ask for a budget without stating what you expect to change. "We expect this investment to reduce [risk metric] by [X]%."This story was produced by Spring Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Attempted attack with explosives in New York City investigated as "ISIS-inspired terrorism" New York City INYPD Commissioner: "Explosive devices that could have caused serious injury or death."

Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

Monday, March 9th, 2026