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Prairie Farms, a farmer-owned cooperative, has spent nearly nine decades building a business whose products reach 30% of the U.S., with a particularly strong presence across the Midwest and South.Its products, including milk, cheese, cottage cheese, butter, sour cream, yogurt, and ice cream, are carried by major U.S. retailers such as Target and Walmart.The company’s products have also earned recognition at major dairy competitions.At the 2025 World Dairy Expo Championship Dairy Product Contest, Prairie Farms and affiliated Hiland Dairy collected 55 awards, with cheeses from Prairie Farms’ manufacturing network taking top honors in several categories.Now, the 88-year-old Illinois-based dairy company is shrinking part of that network.Prairie Farms Dairy is closing two cheese-making operations in Shullsburg, Wisconsin, eliminating 97 jobs as it reevaluates its long-term manufacturing needs.The closures affect Shullsburg Creamery, a historic and award-winning Wisconsin cheese operation whose roots date back to 1934, and the nearby White Hill Cheese facility.Together, the two operations produce products including cheddar, Colby, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, cheese curds, Swiss, and Baby Swiss cheese.Prairie Farms said the decisions followed a careful review of its manufacturing network and long-term operational needs.“Like many manufacturers, Prairie Farms continually evaluates its operations to ensure it is well positioned to serve customers efficiently and support long-term growth,” the company said in a statement to TheStreet.Prairie Farms closes Shullsburg Creamery productionPrairie Farms ended production at its Shullsburg Creamery facility at 208 W. Water St. on July 20, according to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) filing.The permanent closure affects 43 employees across production, packaging, maintenance, sanitation, warehouse, administrative, and management positions.More Layoffs:Meta layoffs take disturbing turn in new lawsuitMajor snack brand closes plant, cuts 345 jobsJPMorgan Chase pushes fraud division layoffs, despite rising revenuesThe two largest affected groups are 15 packaging employees and 15 workers in production and cheese operations. Most workers were scheduled to lose their jobs on July 20, while several employees are being retained temporarily to help wind down the facility.The closure does not affect workers employed at the separate Shullsburg Creamery retail Cheese Store, according to the notice.Prairie Farms also said there will be no disruption in supplies for Shullsburg Creamery customers.Shullsburg Creamery has been part of Wisconsin’s cheese industry for more than 90 years.Related: Grocery chain makes final major business closureThe operation dates back to 1934, when it began producing handmade cheddar cheese. It later became known for Colby, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, smoked cheeses, cheese spreads, and flavored cheese curds.The creamery’s recognizable products include longhorn-style cheese and specialty flavors such as Cranberry Chipotle Cheddar.Several Shullsburg products have also earned industry honors. Cranberry Chipotle Cheddar previously took first place at the World Dairy Expo, while its smoked cheese curds and Colby Jack Longhorn have received awards at other dairy competitions.

Prairie Farms is closing two facilities in Wisconsin.Helen Camacaro / Getty Images

White Hill Cheese closure eliminates another 54 jobsPrairie Farms is also permanently ending operations at its White Hill Cheese facility at 110 Miner Way in Shullsburg.The facility will continue operating through August 14, when most of its 54 employees are expected to be laid off.Twelve employees will remain temporarily to help close the plant, with their eventual layoff dates depending on operational needs.The cuts include 23 employees in production and cheese operations and 13 packaging workers.Other affected positions span maintenance, warehouse operations, quality control, administration, and plant management.White Hill Cheese specializes in Swiss and Baby Swiss cheese, including grass-fed varieties.The facility began as a joint venture, with Prairie Farms assuming full ownership in 2020, the same year it also acquired Shullsburg Creamery.Prairie Farms said it expects to complete the pending sale of the White Hill property to an interested party after production ends.The company did not identify the potential buyer.The company did not publicly disclose details of any severance arrangements for affected employees, but said it remains committed to supporting workers through the transition.“We are grateful to the employees at both facilities for their years of service and to the Shullsburg community for its longstanding support,” said Matt McClelland, Prairie Farms CEO.“While these decisions are difficult, they are necessary to strengthen Prairie Farms for the future. Our immediate focus is supporting our employees through this transition.”Related: Sportswear giant continues store closures nationwide

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I have covered Intel’s turnaround story across multiple articles — the layoffs, the 18A yield progress, the management restructuring, the foundry ambitions, just to name a few. Each piece and story added to the mosaic. But nothing validated the thesis like July 23 evening’s Q2 results.Intel reported revenue of $16.1 billion, up 25% year over year. In fact, that’s the strongest revenue growth in more than 15 years, according to CEO Lip-Bu Tan. Non-GAAP EPS of $0.42 came in nearly double the Street’s $0.22 estimate. Q3 guidance of $16.3 billion at the midpoint was well above both Goldman and consensus. We had every major segment beat. Gross margins came in at 41.8% versus the Street’s 39.2%.Goldman Sachs reviewed the results in a note shared with me at TheStreet, raising its estimates by 49% on average while maintaining a Neutral rating and an unchanged $150 price target. INTC ranks 6th among S&P 500 stocks year-to-date at approximately 154% in gains, according to Slickcharts. It is also one of the four chip stocks Jim Cramer named as his favorites in my previous coverage.Goldman’s take was candid: a great quarter that cleared an elevated bar. But Intel’s closest peers still offer more attractive risk-reward.Also Read: Intel Corporation Latest News and StoriesThe quarter Goldman described as “well above the Street across the board”The specific beat magnitudes in the Goldman note are worth laying out, according to the research shared.Revenue of $16.1 billion was above Goldman’s own estimate of $14.3 billion and the Street’s $14.4 billion. Gross margin of 41.8% was above Goldman’s 39.3% and the Street’s 39.2%.Non-GAAP operating EPS of $0.42 was nearly double Goldman’s $0.23 estimate and the Street’s $0.22.The Data Center and AI segment was the headline driver. DCAI revenue of $6.3 billion grew 24% quarter over quarter and 59% year over year, driven by general-purpose server demand and agentic AI, according to Goldman’s note. Intel sees an accelerating server CPU market with a strong double-digit CAGR through at least 2028. The company is currently running in a capacity shortage position, and expects stronger sequential DCA growth in Q4 as additional supply comes online.Related: Alphabet and Intel could reset the AI tradeClient computing revenue reached $8.9 billion, above both Goldman and Street estimates. Intel Foundry revenue of $5.8 billion was also above consensus at $5.5 billion.”Our Q2 results represent our strongest revenue growth in more than fifteen years,” Tan said in the earnings release.The 18A and 14A process commentary Goldman flagged as strategically significantThe technology roadmap disclosures in Q2 are the items Goldman’s note highlighted as most meaningful for the foundry investment thesis, according to the research.Intel 18A-P entered risk production in Q2, meeting the timeline shared with customers and partners. The company entered high-volume manufacturing for a subset of Core Ultra Series 3 processors using ASML’s EXE High NA EUV technology, the most advanced lithography available. Related: Goldman Sachs backs surprising non-AI stocksIntel also announced a €5 billion investment to expand manufacturing capacity and production of Xeon 6 and next-generation Xeon processors built on Intel 3, according to Intel’s second-quarter results.The 14A process, with volume production targeted for 2028, drove a meaningful capital expenditure increase. Intel raised its 2026 CapEx guidance to over $20 billion from $17 billion previously, and expects significant further increases in 2027 to support Advanced Packaging capacity and the 14A launch, according to the Goldman note. Intel plans to increase WFE tooling spending by approximately 40% in 2026.Goldman raised its estimates by 49% on average as a direct reflection of that demand signal, according to the note.

Intel reported revenue of $16.1 billion in Q2 fiscal 2026, up 25% year over year — the strongest revenue growth in more than 15 years.CHENG Yu-chen / AFP via Getty Images

Why Goldman stays Neutral despite raising estimates by 49%This is the nuanced part of the Goldman note that investors need to read carefully.Goldman’s Neutral rating and $150 price target, based on 30 times normalized EPS of $5.00, reflects a specific comparison, not a fundamental objection to Intel’s business. “Intel’s closest peers — AMD, NVDA and AVGO — offer relatively more revenue visibility and favorable risk/reward,” the note states.The firm acknowledges Intel as a beneficiary of rising server demand and a U.S. foundry champion with genuine geopolitical tailwinds. That happens to be the reason Jim Cramer mentioned Intel being one of his best picks, as noted in my previous coverage.  It also acknowledges near-term traction in Advanced Packaging and longer-term potential in wafer outsourcing. Also Read: Intel’s stock split history (& prospects) explainedThe $8.5 billion in CHIPS Act subsidies and Intel’s unique position as America’s only advanced chip manufacturer provide a structural moat that competitors cannot replicate.But Goldman’s upside risks are the same list that has defined the Intel story all year. From increased foundry traction, better server CPU share, and faster margin improvement. Related: Intel and AMD just got leverage they haven’t had in yearsDownside risks remain a slower-than-anticipated node ramp and share losses to AMD. Those are genuinely open questions that keep the investment profile Neutral rather than Buy, even after one of the company’s best quarters in a decade and a half.The semiconductor industry as a whole is reporting 134% year-over-year earnings growth and 76% revenue growth in Q2 2026, according to FactSet’s July 24 data. Without semiconductors, the Information Technology sector’s earnings growth rate would fall from 64.6% to 26.1%. Intel, for the first time in years, is firmly in the group of companies driving that sector-level outperformance rather than lagging behind it.Related: Goldman Sachs drops new warning on interest rate hikes

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Why we love this dealLounging in your favorite outdoor furniture is one of the simple pleasures of summertime. That’s easier said than done if you don’t have a comfy patio set to make it happen. While it’s not always easy to find a good deal on patio furniture, it’s far easier at Walmart than almost anywhere else. In fact, we found one that’s currently on sale, and it can be yours for well under $100. That’s a small price to pay for outdoor comfort, plus having comfortable furniture on your patio will likely be a motivator for you to utilize the space way more. Ultimately, you’re paying to increase the usable square footage of your house. The Best Choice Products Outdoor Wicker Conversation Set is on sale for only $75 at the moment. That’s 62% off the original price of $200. If ever there was a time to take advantage of a great deal on outdoor furniture, this is it. Especially considering this set is a bestseller and already a popular pick among shoppers. Best Choice Products Outdoor Wicker Conversation Set, $75 (was $200) at Walmart

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Shop at WalmartWhy do shoppers love it?This patio set offers the perfect balance between size, comfort, and aesthetics. It includes two large armchairs and a mid-sized bistro table. The set could serve as a foundational piece on a small balcony or as a complimentary set next to a larger combination. Either way, its size is ideal for almost any use. The chairs are large enough to offer spacious seating while the table is small enough to not waste any valuable square footage unnecessarily. It’s in the Goldilocks zone for modern patio sets.As for comfort, the set is a delightful pick for anyone who values softness and support. The medium-thickness seat pillows are just right for providing the perfect amount of cushion without being too “squishy”. Each cushion has a zipper enclosure, which allows you to remove it and machine wash it whenever needed. The high-back design of the chairs offers ample lumbar support, which is great for anyone who has lower back issues. There are armrests as well, which allow you to keep your arms in a relaxed position for long periods of time, though some reviewers would have liked them to be wider. Aesthetically, this table and chairs have it all. The hand-woven wicker that covers the powder-coated frames gives a rustic yet refined look. A shatter-resistant tempered glass top covers the bistro table, and there is a small cubby underneath. While the cubby doesn’t have a door, it’s large enough for books, towels, or other small items. It gives the entire set an additional texture that adds to its visual appeal. The set is available in 27 color variants, so you certainly won’t be at a loss for variety.Related: Amazon has a cushioned 3-piece patio set for just $50Pros and cons of the Best Choice Products Outdoor Wicker Conversation SetProsCushions: Each cushion is machine washable. Tabletop: The table is covered with a shatter-resistant tempered glass panel.Color options: There are 27 colorways from which to choose.Cons Armrests: The thin design of the armrests may not be as comfortable as some may wish.Glass attachment: The tempered glass tabletop is not permanently attached to the table, which means it could potentially slide in some cases.Walmart shoppers enjoyed this set as much as we did. One buyer said they were “absolutely in love with the patio set.” Many reviewers touted the comfort and ease of assembly of the set. Shop more deals Gymax 3-Piece Patio Set, $180 (was $319) at WalmartCostway 3-Piece Acacia Patio Set, $205 at WalmartMF Studio Wicker Patio Set, $255 (was $510) at WalmartIf you’re looking for patio furniture that can serve just about any purpose, then the Best Choice Products Outdoor Wicker Conversation Set is perfect for you. This set is a steal at just $75, so don’t hesitate if you’re interested.

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Everyone loves having their tech close at hand 24 hours a day. Whether it’s listening to music on earbuds during the morning bus ride or checking their steps with a fitness tracker while out shopping, people love portable technology. One of the most popular pieces of technology to take on the go is a laptop computer. The whole purpose of this device is to enjoy it just about anywhere, whether that’s for work or for play. A laptop gives you the freedom to take it with you wherever you may go. However, that portability brings with it another challenge: How should you store and transport your laptop to keep it safe at all times? With electronics becoming more expensive as of late, longevity is of the utmost importance.While some people choose to utilize a dedicated laptop case for their computer, these briefcase-style bags aren’t necessarily the most practical. They have handles or long straps for taking them with you on the go, and unfortunately, the handles don’t allow for hands-free transport. Plus, it can be uncomfortable, especially if you’re going a great distance. While you can use a standard backpack that may have a dedicated laptop sleeve, this is more of an afterthought than a way to truly protect your machine in the way that it deserves. That’s why specialized laptop backpacks are becoming so popular.What is a laptop backpack?A laptop backpack is a specially-designed bag with shoulder straps for storing and transporting your laptop computer. Unlike standard backpacks, these bags were designed exclusively for holding a computer, and little else. They’re intended to be as convenient as possible for those who take their laptops out of the home on a regular basis. If a backpack can be intuitive, then laptop backpacks are just that. They take into account how the owner might use them based on the primary cargo, and have small quirks and design features that make usage convenient and hassle free. Essentially, a laptop backpack is the ultimate bag for the ultimate electronic device. Lenovo B210 Laptop Backpack

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Check price at AmazonCheck price at WalmartThe Lenovo B210 Laptop Backpack is an amazing example of what happens when a brand that’s intimately familiar with a product develops an accessory for that same product. It was created as the perfect companion to a laptop computer, Lenovo or otherwise. This bag includes tech protection elements, a slim compartmentalized layout, and a protective shell, all of which combine for one of the simplest yet brilliant laptop bag designs ever.As mentioned above, this bag was designed primarily to protect your computer from external dangers. The primary method of doing this is through padding that’s all-encompassing, rather than sparse, which is what’s usually found in standard backpacks. The padded laptop compartment can fit up to a 16-inch laptop. While most backpacks have a single padded panel at the front of the sleeve for a computer, the B210 incorporates 360-degree padding on every interior surface. That includes the bottom of the bag, which is often a forgotten zone on standard backpacks. You can feel confident that your laptop will be able to take plenty of bangs and dings in this bag.As for layout, the backpack is perfect for toting a laptop and associated accessories without a lot of extraneous open space. While the computer sleeve fits a laptop perfectly, there is a thin main compartment that’s just right for anything else you may need for working off-site. Inside are multiple structured compartments for keeping power cords, pens, and other small electronics organized. There’s also plenty of space in the open portion for notepads, folders, etc. On the outside, there is a single zipper compartment for keys, phone, or any other last-minute items that you may need to grab in a hurry. Finally, the outer shell of the bag is the last layer of protection. It’s made from a polyester snow yarn. That means it’s water repellent, making it safe for walking outside when a light shower might come up in a hurry. After all, the last thing you want your laptop to suffer is water damage, as that’s something that many computers will never come back from. Overall, this backpack is the ultimate in laptop storage, and the price warrants serious consideration.More laptop backpacksIf the Lenovo B210 Laptop Backpack is the right choice for you, it doesn’t mean that all is lost. Amazon and Walmart both have a number of laptop backpacks to choose from, and most are available for a reasonable price. Check out the following options to see if any of them suit your personal laptop needs.Maxtop Deep Storage Laptop Backpack

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Check price at AmazonLixlin Lightweight Laptop Backpack

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Check price at AmazonAisboks Anti-Theft Travel Laptop Backpack

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Check price at WalmartLovelook Laptop Backpack

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Check price at WalmartTheStreet Shopping is your guide for shopping insights and advice. We look beyond the price tag to find the best value in home, tech, and wellness gear based on product features and real-world use. Read more about our Editorial Standards and How We Choose Our Shopping Deals.

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