Trending: CDs, Horses & Mums

 A Little Retro, a Little Practical

CD Sales Surge in 2026 as Younger Listeners Rediscover Physical Music

Compact discs are making an unexpected comeback in the United States—and nostalgia may be only part of the story.

CD sales jumped 58.6 percent during the first half of 2026, reaching $171.1 million, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. Americans bought about 17.5 million CDs, a 45.7 percent increase from the same period last year.

The revival comes as streaming continues to dominate music listening. Streaming generated about $4.9 billion during the first six months of 2026, or roughly 82 percent of the recorded-music market.

At the same time, physical music is growing. Revenue from physical formats, including CDs and vinyl records, rose nearly 26 percent to $731.5 million.

One major factor behind the CD surge is the popularity of collectible K-pop albums. These releases often come with special packaging, photo cards and other physical extras that give fans something to collect—not just music to play.

But the increase goes beyond K-pop. Even after excluding special-edition releases, CD sales were still up 6.7 percent.

The comeback also fits into a larger retro-technology trend among younger consumers. Gen Z shoppers are showing interest in older technologies such as digital cameras, typewriters, flip phones—and now CDs and vinyl.

For some younger buyers, the appeal may be having a more tangible and controlled way to experience technology, without the constant notifications, apps and algorithms associated with modern devices.

Still, the music industry isn’t ready to declare CDs back for good. CD sales actually fell 7.8 percent in 2025, with unit sales dropping from 33.3 million to 29.5 million.

So, is this a lasting revival or a temporary spike driven by a few popular releases? The answer may become clearer when the RIAA releases its full-year 2026 numbers.

For now, the compact disc is spinning again—and a new generation is discovering something many people thought had disappeared for good.

TSA PreCheck Gateside Program Lets Non-Travelers Enter Airport Terminals Beyond Security

According to the Transportation Security Administration, a new program called Gateside by TSA PreCheck allows eligible TSA PreCheck members to enter airport terminals beyond the security checkpoint—even when they are not flying.

The program is free, but visitors must apply one to three days before their planned visit. Eligible visitors use their Known Traveler Number, or KTN, to apply. If approved, they can enter through the airport’s TSA PreCheck lanes after showing an acceptable ID and, when requested, proof of approval.

The program is designed for people who want to say hello or goodbye to family and friends at the gate, meet someone during a long layover, or enjoy restaurants and shops inside the secured terminal.

Children can also participate, but they must be included on a parent or guardian’s reservation.

Gateside is currently available at 13 airports, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Dallas-Fort Worth, Detroit, Columbus, Indianapolis, Salt Lake City, and Mesa Gateway. TSA says the program is expected to expand to additional airports.

There are some restrictions. Access may be limited during busy periods, and visitors must follow the same airport security and conduct rules as ticketed passengers. Violations can result in removal from the airport or other penalties.

One important distinction: Gateside is specifically designed for eligible TSA PreCheck travelers and provides access through TSA PreCheck lanes. People using other airport or airline visitor passes generally must go through standard security screening.

Overall, TSA says Gateside is intended to bring back some of the traditional airport experience—allowing people to spend time with loved ones at the gate even when they aren’t traveling.
Reference: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck/gateside-tsa-precheck

Teaching Horses About Snakes 

In areas where venomous snakes are common, encountering a snake can be a serious concern for horse owners. One trainer recently shared a Facebook demonstration showing a young horse being introduced to a non-venomous snake.

The goal of this type of desensitization is to teach the horse not to panic when it sees or smells a snake. At the same time, responsible training should not encourage a horse to investigate snakes on its own. The broader lesson is about teaching a calm response while maintaining a healthy distance from potentially dangerous wildlife.

Safety note: Snake desensitization should be handled by an experienced professional. Never place a horse or person at unnecessary risk by using a venomous snake.

How To Help Potted Plants Like Mums Last Longer

Potted mums and other mature seasonal plants can sometimes dry out quickly, particularly when their root balls have become very dry. One suggested watering technique is to place the plant’s root ball in a bucket of water for 30 minutes to a couple of hours, allowing the lower roots and soil to absorb moisture thoroughly.

After soaking, remove the plant, allow excess water to drain, and plant it as usual. Continue normal watering afterward.

For mature seasonal plants, avoid automatically adding fertilizer. If the plant is already fully grown and nearing the end of its seasonal display, fertilizer may not be necessary and excessive fertilizer can damage roots

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WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS

Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC’ Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.

With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.

United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.

To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.