Tuesday, September 8th, 2026 | |
| Australian social media users to be offered choice to opt out of algorithmsA government statement said on Tuesday social media platforms would be required to send a notification to new and existing users offering them a choice over their default feed. |
| U.K. bans goods from occupied West Bank as Israel and U.S. warn of repercussionsBritain announces a ban on goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, prompting warnings of US repercussions and an angry response from Israel. |
| U.K. accuses Israeli settlers of 'ethnic cleansing' in West Bank and bans their goodsBritain announces a ban on goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, prompting warnings of US repercussions and an angry response from Israel. |
| Kewanee Paint & Supply opens in downtown Kewanee with Benjamin Moore productsThe new paint store carries an assortment of Benjamin Moore paint and products and is accessible to Goods Furniture. |
| The Lounge Hair & Beard opens in DavenportThe salon offers quality haircuts, beard trims, and full grooming services in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. |
| Brick and Motor Boutique expands into Vibrant Coffeehouse & Kitchen locationsShoppers can grab a drink, food, and shop Brick & Motor at both Vibrant locations. |
| Rock Island County real estate transactions for September 6, 2026Here are homes sales and property sales in Rock Island County. |
| Much-needed rain follows Tuesday's heatAfter a very nice Labor Day in the Quad Cities, today will be another hot and humid one. However, the heat won't develop into another heat wave. Showers and storms are likely tonight and Wednesday. Some of the storms could become severe. Here's your complete 7-day forecast. |
| Has the economy gone C-shaped?A K means the rich and poor are pulling apart. A C supposedly means they're coming back together. We hear the case for both. Which letter you see may depend on what you choose to pay attention to. |
| Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia ignite fires at oil facilities and wound 73 peopleThe attacks come after weeks of escalating clashes between the Houthis and Saudi-backed government forces in Yemen, which shattered a four-year truce in the country's civil war. |
| 60 years later, 'Star Trek' continues to 'live long and prosper'The television series, Star Trek, turns 60 on Tuesday. The original show aired for only three seasons, but it spawned prequels and sequels (on TV and in theaters) and still has a cult following. |
| The 2026 midterm general election season is upon us. Here's what to watchThe week of Labor Day marks the unofficial kickoff of the general election season. President Trump's unpopularity and Democratic enthusiasm means control of Congress is on the ballot. |
| Muscatine City Council plans special session on golf course improvementsThe Muscatine City Council will convene for a special in‑depth session at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, at the Muscatine Municipal Golf Course clubhouse. Because of the off‑site location, video coverage will not be available. The meeting will focus on potential improvement projects at the golf course, including proposed clubhouse renovations. Community members and [...] |
| What to know about Canada's escalating trade war with the U.S.Canada struck back at U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday with tariffs on about $20 billion worth of U.S. goods. The outcome could resonate far beyond Canada. |
| King Charles III clarifies status of Prince Harry and his wife, MeghanKing Charles III has reiterated that Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, remain non-working members of the royal family following their return to the United Kingdom. |
| Russia and North Korea open the first road across their shared borderRelations between Russia and North Korea have been flourishing, with North Korea supplying ammunition and troops to support Russia's war against Ukraine in return for economic and military assistance. |
Monday, September 7th, 2026 | |
| American Protective AssociationThis is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Safe in the Vatican, Pope Leo the Thirteenth was probably not aware in the spring of 1887 that a stack of lumber in… |
| Quad Cities dogs cool off at Bettendorf's annual 'Doggy Splash'The event raises money for the Crow Creek Dog Park. |
| 2-year-old dies after falling into pool in Scott CountyThe Scott County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division is investigating the incident. |
| Bettendorf man sentenced after gunfire at motel in 2025: Court documentsA 57-year-old Bettendorf man was placed on two years of supervised probation after gunfire at a motel in 2025, according to a Scott County Court order of disposition. Tommie Valentine Jr. had pleaded guilty to charges of dominion/control of a firearm/offensive weapon by a felon, affidavits say. On Sept. 4, Valentine appeared with his attorney [...] |
| Iowa union members rally for workers’ rights at Des Moines Labor Day paradeIowa union members and supporters filled downtown Des Moines for the Labor Day parade, turning the rainy event into a rally for workers’ rights two months ahead of the midterm election. |
| Cost of living and voter turnout take center stage at 57th Salute to Labor picnicWorking families and local leaders gathered at the 57th annual Salute to Labor picnic to address inflation and encourage voters to make a plan for November. |
| Update: 2-year-old dies after falling into pool at Scott County residenceThe Scott County Sheriff's Office provided an update Monday on the unresponsive toddler who was airlifted to Iowa City on Sunday. |
| Crews on scene after car crashes into Moline homeCrews are on the scene after a car crashed into the front porch of a house in Moline. Our Quad Cities News was told the accident happened a little after 6:00 p.m. at the intersection of 3rd St. and 19th Ave. near City Line Plaza. According to reports, the car hit the curb, flipped around [...] |
| Update: 2-year-old child dies after being found in Scott Co. poolA 2-year-old toddler has died after being found unresponsive in an outdoor pool on Maysville Road in Scott County, officials said. |
| Illinois Gov. Pritzker, leading Democrats energize party faithful at Salute to LaborIllinois Gov. JB Pritzker was the main speaker Sept. 7 at the 57th-annual Salute to Labor Picnic at the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council’s Quad Cities site in East Moline. |
| Duckworth attends roundtable in the Quad Cities on Labor DayDuckworth spoke to social service groups in our region. |
| Illinois voted best state for pumpkin patchesA new report reviewed pumpkin patches nationally and found Illinois has the best! Illinois is the biggest pumpkin-producing state across the U.S., and Goebbert's Farm in Pingree Grove was rated as the best patch in the state. From corn mazes to spooky haunted trails and attractions to explore, farms and pumpkin patches were also judged [...] |
| Rock Island County Democrats hold annual Salute to Labor picnicGov. JB Pritzker, Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Rep. Eric Sorensen were among the speakers. |
| Sen. Duckworth addressing rising cost of living, voting during QCA visitU.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth visited Rock Island on Labor Day to hear directly from Quad City residents about rising costs of living and economic worries. |
| Labor Day picnic: Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker says he's working 'day and night' to reopen Joslin plantIllinois Gov. JB Pritzker was among the speakers at the Rock Island County Democrats’ Salute to Labor picnic on Monday. |
| Low River Levels cause lack of Labor Day boatingLow river levels cause a lack of boaters out on the Mississippi River on Labor Day |
| Quad Cities communities celebrate Labor Day with annual parades and festivalsThousands turned out across East Moline, Rock Island, Galesburg, and McCausland for annual Labor Day parades and community celebrations. |
| Rock Island County Democrats celebrate unions at annual Salute to Labor picnicGov. JB Pritzker, Sen. Tammy Duckworth and Rep. Eric Sorensen were among the attendees. |
| 1 person dead after crash in Bureau CountyOfficials have identified the victim as Aiden Mrotek of Carpentersville, Illinois. |
| We The People: The Iowa family carrying on a 140-year tradition atop the world’s shortest, steepest railwayA landmark in Dubuque is drawing visitors from around the world — and it’s been in the same family for five generations. |
| Former Iowa city clerk ordered to pay $56,000 after fraud investigationA former Atkins city clerk who pleaded guilty to a fraud investigation over misuse of city funds has been ordered to pay $56,000 in restitution to the city. |
| Vacant house fire in Dubuque ruled arsonThe Dubuque Fire Department responded to a vacant structure fire on Monday, with officials saying the fire was set intentionally. |
| Decades of August roadside surveys in Iowa show wildlife and habitat changesEvery August, for over half a century, Iowa Department of Natural Resource staff have set out along gravel roads at dawn, armed with a set of binoculars and, now, an interactive logging application, to survey the landscape for pheasants and other wildlife. |
| I-80 traffic stop leads to 2 arrests for trafficking over 5,800 pounds of cannabisIllinois State Police arrested two people after finding over 5,800 pounds of cannabis during a traffic stop on I-80 eastbound. |
| Labor unions are growing, but where depends on state politicsA new study shows U.S. union membership grew by over 411,000 workers last year, with collective bargaining states driving three times the growth of right-to-work states. |
| Free Petting Zoo and Book Bash returns to Longview Park in Rock IslandFamilies are invited to Longview Park in Rock Island on Saturday, Sept. 12, for a free petting zoo, book giveaways, and library activities. |
| 21-year-old killed in fiery crash in Bureau Co.Twenty-one-year-old man killed in fiery Bureau County crash |
| Pet of the Week | Daisy May - Sept. 7, 2026Each week, News 8 invites the Quad City Animal Welfare Center to our studio to feature an adoptable pet. |
| Schedule released: No Iowans listed to speak at inaugural RNC mid-term convention this weekNo Iowa Republican candidates are listed on the speaking schedule for the first-ever mid-term Republican convention in Dallas, which features President Donald Trump, members of his administration, congressional leaders, and candidates from across the country. |
| Run With Carl marks Labor Day in BettendorfQuad Citians gathered along Middle Road in Bettendorf on Labor Day morning for the annual Run With Carl to support local student scholarships. |
| Veterans prepare to take off on 67th QC Honor FlightOn Sept. 22, the 67th Honor Flight will leave the Quad Cities International Airport with over 80 veterans on their way to Washington D. C. to see the memorials built in their honor, a news releases says. This flight is sponsored by Quad Cities, Clinton, and North Scott Hy-Vee stores. Of special note will be [...] |
| Your retirement age may have changed this year: What to knowYou can, of course, retire whenever you like, but retiring too early may impact your Social Security payments. |
| 21-year-old man dies after hitting a bridge guardrail in Bureau CountyOne person is dead after the vehicle struck a bridge guardrail and caught fire in Bureau County. |
| 1 person dead after vehicle hits guardrail, catches fire in Bureau CountyOne person is dead after a vehicle struck a guardrail and caught fire on 2000 North Avenue in Bureau County. |
| KidneyMobile will be in Galena for free health screeningsThe National Kidney Foundation of Illinois will bring the KidneyMobile to Northern Illinois toprovide free kidney and health screenings, a news release says. The KidneyMobile will screen at the Galena ARC Community Center from 2-6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14. Anyone interested in getting screened for kidney disease, high blood pressure or diabetes can get free [...] |
| Scott County juvenile airlifted to University of Iowa HospitalsScott County Sheriff's Office, along with the Walcott Fire Department, Medic EMS and Medforce responded to a home on Maysville Road Sunday afternoon. |
| Paranormal Cirque: Inferno will make its spooky way into DavenportAbandon all hope, ye who enter here. Paranormal Cirque: Inferno will take you past the blazing gates of hell and straight into a nightmarish underworld where desire and damnation combine in a cursed conflagration, a news release says. This new production conjures a cast of world-class performers to lead you on an explosive journey through [...] |
| Sandburg plans car show for Galesburg campusGet revved up for the Sandburg Car Show from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 in the building A parking lot on the Galesburg campus, a news release says. This annual event is open to the public and includes free entry for all exhibitors. The first 100 to pre-register will receive a dash plaque and [...] |
| Illinois tourism hits high of $50.2 billionIllinois tourism just hit a new record. Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced record-breaking growth across Illinois’ tourism industry in 2025. Visitor spending hit an all-time high of $50.2 billion. That mark is up 3.5 percent from the previous year and helped generate more than $88 billion in [...] |
| Rejuvenate Housing showcases renovated Davenport home and announces major grantRejuvenate Housing will showcase its sixth renovated Davenport home and announce a major John Deere Foundation grant during a Tuesday open house. |
| As Nepal identifies those killed in the floods, questions grow over China's reportingOne week after the deadly floods, very little is known about China's dead or missing. China's control over media and digital censorship is in stark contrast to open reporting in Nepal. |
| 3 Things to Know | Quad Cities morning headlines for Sept. 7, 2026Members of the Rock Island County Democrats will host their annual Salute to Labor picnic, and parades are scheduled in other Illinois towns throughout the holiday. |
| Investigation underway after unresponsive child transported to Iowa City hospitalThe condition is unknown at this time, and the Scott County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division is looking into what happened. |
| Rock Island Art Guild Fine Arts Exhibition will be on view at Figge Art MuseumThe Rock Island Art Guild and the Figge Art Museum have partnered since 2016 to present the Rock Island Art Guild Fine Arts Exhibition, an annual showcase of contemporary artwork by artists living within 200 miles of the Figge. Organized by the Rock Island Art Guild since 1970 and hosted by the Figge since 2016, [...] |
| Pound and Inch Fabric and Sewing Store in Moline wins prestigious awardThe award honored the store for “Thinking like our Customer” referencing its unique concept and support of the Quad City Veterans Center. |
| Ben Leischner elected to the National Aviation Association board of directorsLeischner’s election brings the perspective of the QC Airport and other regional airports to conversations shaping the future of all airports across the U.S. and Canada. |
| Mississippi Valley Blues Society will present two days of music at Blues FestivalThe Mississippi Valley Blues Society will present a lineup of blues artists at the 41st anniversary Blues Festival on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18 and 19, at LeClaire Park on the Davenport Riverfront. “We’re excited to return to historic LeClaire Park”, said MVBS President John Resch, “Two music stages, expanded BlueSkool, and additional vendors promise [...] |
| IMEG expands into Maine with Bennett Engineering Inc.Bennett Engineering’s long-standing focus on energy-efficient design, community impact, and employee growth aligns with IMEG’s values and people-centered culture. |
| Moline's Bethany Baptist Church will celebrate 150 yearsBethany Baptist Church of Moline will celebrate its 150th anniversary Sept. 11-13, a news release says. With the theme “150 Years of God’s Faithfulness,” the anniversary weekend will celebrate Bethany’s rich history, from its Swedish beginnings in 1876 to the congregation it is today. Current and former members, friends of the church and anyone with [...] |
| Free cancer survivor retreat planned for MolineCancer Support Community Iowa and NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club will host a free full-day cancer survivorship retreat from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Gilda’s Club Moline, 600 John Deere Road, Suite 101, Moline, a news release says. It is common to feel many emotions once treatment ends. The post-treatment phase [...] |
| Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine seeks youth nominees for initiative awardThe Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine seeks nominations for a youth initiative award, a news release says. The Giles Joslyn Youth Initiative Award was created to recognize the talented, generous youth in the Quad Cities. Youth 18 and younger who were the primary organizers of a charitable program or project are eligible for the award. [...] |
| Ground-breaking planned for DeWitt single-family housingSilver Creek Development, LLC, in partnership with the DeWitt Chamber & Development Company (DCDC), invites community members, local leaders, and members of the media to celebrate the groundbreaking of The Trails at Silver Creek, a new residential neighborhood in southwest DeWitt, a news release says. Representatives from Silver Creek Development, DCDC, local government, and community [...] |
| New Perspective Silvis joins StoryPoint Group communities under new nameThis senior living community is now StoryPoint Silvis. |
| Check out these 10 famous people from the state of IowaA late-night star, a legendary lawman, NFL greats and more — Iowa has produced an impressive roster of famous faces recognized nationwide. |
| Floral and gift shop new storefront, Brick & Motor Boutique expands, new men salon, and more Quad-Cities business newsNew men salon, Brick & Motor Boutique expands, new paint store, floral and gift shop, and more Quad-Cities business news. |
| Fantastic Labor Day weatherThe Quad Cities will enjoy a nice Labor Day with warm temperatures. However, more heat and humidity are on the way back. Shower and storm chances will accompany our next round of hot weather. Here's your full 7-day forecast. |
| Rural Iowa pharmacy owner tells Josh Turek federal action needed to stay openSpring City Pharmacy owners lost over $100,000 in one year, sparking calls from Iowa political candidates to reform pharmacy benefit managers. |
| Competitive Scrabble tournament underway at Knox CollegeMore than 50 players are competing in a sanctioned Scrabble tournament at Knox College, divided into divisions based on ability and dictionary used. |
| Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force's final report gives recommendations on state's energy futureIowa's Nuclear Energy Task Force, established by Gov. Kim Reynolds, unveiled its report on nuclear power's potential for economic growth and reliability. |
| The first day of school: Bells, bikes, buses and big feelingsFifth graders calm school kindergartners in Los Angeles. Kids take the "bike bus" in Oklahoma. High school students take in a new high school building in Oregon. |
| 'Her body temperature was 106': How heat is killing Americans in their homesHeat kills thousands of people across the U.S. every year. The risk is especially high for the millions of Americans who live in manufactured housing like mobile homes and trailers. |
| The copper peptide trend has gone from creams to injections — ahead of the scienceThe peptide is supposed to deliver flawless and firm skin, promote wound healing and other anti-aging effects. So what's the evidence behind GHK-Cu? |
| Cook review: Jason Statham kicks the daylights out of villains in 'Mutiny'Years ago, there was no such thing as a Jason Statham movie. But there is now, and "Mutiny" is exactly that. Following in the footsteps of the likes of Charles Bronson and Sylvester Stallone, Statham keeps delivering actioners that are easy on the brain and pleasing to the eye as his character delivers the come-uppances [...] |
Sunday, September 6th, 2026 | |
| Pleasant Valley’s Mazie Sweers wins Spotlight Athlete of the WeekPleasant Valley’s senior outside hitter and setter Mazie Sweers is the Spotlight Athlete of the Week. |
| Quad City Animal Welfare Center holds Mutt Strut at Milan Harvest FestivalOver 50 dogs participated with proceeds going toward the Quad City Animal Welfare Center. |
| | Build Heart-Healthy Habits That Last with 4 Simple, Everyday Steps(Feature Impact) Your heart works around the clock, making heart health one of the most important parts of your overall well-being. The good news is improving heart health doesn't require an overnight transformation. Small, consistent lifestyle changes and healthy habits, including staying active and making smart food choices, can help support cardiovascular health. Sit Less Throughout the Day If you work in an office setting, spending long periods sitting may be the norm. Even if you exercise regularly, those long-seated hours may affect heart health. Look for opportunities to move more by taking short walking breaks, standing while on the phone, stretching between meetings or taking the stairs instead of an elevator. Prioritize Foods That Support Heart Health A heart-healthy eating pattern can begin with foods that are low in saturated fat and sodium, and provide beneficial vitamins and plant compounds, like fresh, juicy grapes. They contain 7% of the daily recommended intake of potassium per serving, are a good source of vitamin K and deliver beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols, including flavonoids, that can help relax blood vessels and promote healthy circulation. Some studies also suggest grapes have a beneficial impact on blood lipids and more. In fact, one study found women who consumed 1 1/4 cups of grapes every day benefited from reduced blood triglyceride levels, LDL cholesterol levels, inflammatory proteins and other markers of heart disease. Whether enjoyed as a snack, added to salads or blended into smoothies, Grapes from California make it easy to add more heart-smart nutrition throughout the day. For example, this Warm Lentil, California Grape and Arugula Salad includes a quick homemade rosemary lemon vinaigrette to pack in the flavor and complement black lentils and sweet grapes. Cut Back on Added Sodium Adding heart-healthy foods like grapes to your menu is a good place to start, but caring for your cardiovascular system is also about what you're not eating. Many packaged and restaurant foods contain more sodium than some people realize, making it important to read nutrition labels, prepare more meals at home and flavor foods with herbs, spices, citrus or vinegar instead of extra salt to support healthy blood pressure. Make Good Sleep a Priority Quality sleep affects many aspects of health, including cardiovascular. Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night in a cool, comfortable environment. To get a good night's rest, try limiting screen time before bed, blocking out light and avoiding alcohol or caffeine in the evenings. To learn more about the heart-health benefits of grapes and find additional health-supporting recipes, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com. Warm Lentil, California Grape and Arugula Salad Servings: 6 1 pouch (8 ounces) precooked black lentils 1 1/2 cups Grapes from California, halved 1 cup radicchio, torn 1 cup arugula chopped toasted walnuts Rosemary Lemon Vinaigrette: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves 2 teaspoons honey 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1 clove garlic freshly ground pepper, to taste To make rosemary lemon vinaigrette: In small blender or food processor, process olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, honey, salt, garlic and pepper, to taste, until rosemary is finely chopped; set aside until ready to use. May be made 2 days in advance and refrigerated in covered container until ready to serve. Bring to room temperature before using. In large glass bowl, microwave lentils 45 seconds, or until warm. Add grapes, radicchio, arugula and dressing to bowl and toss lightly to coat. Sprinkle with walnuts. Nutritional information per serving: 160 calories; 4 g protein; 18 g carbohydrates; 9 g fat (51% calories from fat); 1.5 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 200 mg sodium; 4 g fiber. |
| | Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: 8 Steps to Prepare Your Home for Cold Weather(Feature Impact) As temperatures cool, now is an ideal time to prepare your home for winter. Taking care of seasonal maintenance before the cold weather arrives can help protect you and your wallet from unexpected and costly repairs. From clearing gutters to scheduling an HVAC tune-up, tackling a few projects now can help set your home up for a safe and comfortable winter. Consider this your ultimate fall home maintenance checklist from the experts at Carrier. 1. Clean Gutters Leaves and debris collect quickly in home gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are clear so water can drain properly and away from your home's foundation. If you wait until after temperatures drop, you run the risk of ice dams and water damage. 2. Inspect Your Outdoor HVAC Equipment Remove leaves, grass clippings and debris that may have accumulated around your outdoor unit. Maintaining proper clearance can help support airflow and system performance throughout the season. 3. Replace HVAC Filters A dirty filter can restrict airflow and force your system to work harder, potentially increasing energy use and reducing comfort. A simple filter check can also help prepare your heating system for increased use. Check your HVAC filter before turning on your heating system and continue inspecting it throughout the winter. To help maintain proper airflow, Carrier typically recommends replacing air filters every 1-3 months. 4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors When changing clocks, test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries as needed. Working carbon monoxide alarms are especially important as temperatures fall and home heating systems begin running more frequently. 5. Schedule Your HVAC Tune-Up Before Winter Arrives Don't wait until the first cold day of the season to find out your heating system isn't ready for winter. Annual maintenance can help improve efficiency, extend equipment life and identify potential issues before the heating season begins. Experts often recommend having an HVAC professional perform annual furnace maintenance in the fall before heating season begins. Routine maintenance can help keep a system operating in tip-top shape and allow a technician to identify smaller issues before they become costly repairs. However, if replacement is recommended, the upfront price doesn't necessarily have to stand between you and a more comfortable home. Consider options from Carrier, which offers flexible financing options through participating dealers. Depending on the financing plan you qualify for and your home's heating and cooling needs, a new system could cost less than you think. Homeowners can also explore utility rebates on qualifying equipment. 6. Test Your Thermostat Testing your thermostat early helps ensure your heating system is communicating properly before temperatures drop. Switch to heating mode early to make sure your system responds properly (just don't forget to turn it back off). Replace batteries, if necessary, and consider whether a smart thermostat could provide additional comfort and control over your home's heating schedule. 7. Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows Drafts can make a home feel colder and allow warm air inside your house to escape. Inspect weatherstripping around doors and windows and replace it where needed. Caulk visible gaps to help keep conditioned air inside and improve your family's comfort. 8. Check Your Home's Insulation Finally, look at insulation in areas such as the attic, crawl spaces and basement. Doing so can help keep heated air where it belongs and reduce the workload on your heating system all winter long. To learn more about preparing your heating or cooling system for the season, exploring financing and rebates or finding a local expert, visit Carrier.com. |
| | 3 Steps to Support Mental Health for Rural Youth(Feature Impact) Young people face a growing number of pressures, including academic expectations, social responsibilities, complex family situations and uncertainty about their own futures. Mental health support is important for all - but in many rural areas, those pressures are even greater. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the suicide rate for rural youth ages 15-19 is 74% higher than their urban counterparts. Barriers like limited insurance coverage, unreliable internet for telehealth, scarce providers, long drive times and lack of public transportation make it harder to get mental healthcare when it's needed. Plus, asking for help can feel like opening oneself up to judgment and stigmatization. That's why Rural Minds, the only nonprofit focused on mental health for rural communities, created the Rural Youth Mental Wellness pilot program supported by Boehringer Ingelheim. It was developed by an advisory committee made up of rural youth to provide their peers with practical, free, accessible mental health resources. Incorporating feedback on the pilot, the updated program sponsored by the Sompo Foundation is now launching its national rollout. "A young person's ZIP code should never determine whether they can access meaningful mental health support where and when they need it," said Jessica L. Schleider, Ph.D., director, Lab for Scalable Mental Health, Northwestern University. "Our lab is thrilled to partner with Rural Minds as they champion evidence-based, anonymous, freely available support tools designed to overcome barriers to help-seeking faced by rural youth across the country." If the rural mental health crisis affects you or a loved one, consider these ways to help. Break the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health In communities where self-reliance is valued, asking for help can sometimes be viewed as a sign of weakness. Young people who feel unheard and unsupported often struggle with being vulnerable, so they continue carrying their increasingly heavy burdens alone. Parents, educators, healthcare providers, community leaders and peers can work to change that culture by normalizing mental health conversations. This includes helping teenagers feel seen and accepted by educating them on mental health issues and coping strategies, listening to their experiences without judgment, sharing your own stories and reminding them it's courageous to seek support. Consider Single-Session Interventions The first step is always the hardest when it comes to seeking mental health support, and not every struggling young person is ready or able to see a therapist. With access to free, confidential, self-guided materials to begin building mental wellness skills, the first step may be less scary. Single-Session Interventions (SSIs) are brief, structured online courses designed to teach youth practical skills for handling stress, low mood, self-image and more. The Rural Youth Mental Wellness Program offers SSIs in partnership with Project YES (Youth Empowerment and Support), a free digital resource developed with Northwestern University's Lab for Scalable Mental Health at the Feinberg School of Medicine. Anonymous access to SSIs through the partnership provides strategies for: Improving mood Rethinking body image Reframing negative thoughts Knowing your power to change Taking steps toward goals Protecting LGBTQ+ pride Handling self-harm urges Staying safe amid dark thoughts Each SSI typically takes 5-10 minutes. Although SSIs are not a replacement for therapy, they provide a research-backed source of support for young people experiencing bouts of stress or low-to-moderate distress. Know When to Seek Professional Help Self-guided resources and supportive conversations are a valuable starting point, but sometimes young people need qualified professional help. Look for symptoms like worsening mood or behavior, substance use, self-harm or difficulty managing everyday tasks, and take teens seriously when they express dark feelings. Doctors and counselors can provide personalized support for youth in crisis, and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential 24/7 support for mental health by dialing 9-8-8. "I grew up in a small town where mental health was almost taboo," said committee member Asheton Medlin. "Being part of the committee that built this program let me help make sure rural youth today have the support I didn't. I'm excited to help bring these resources to them because this generation deserves the chance to grow up and change the world." Find more information at RuralMinds.org. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock |
| | 8 Daily Habits to Support Your Heart, Kidney and Metabolic Health(Feature Impact) When it comes to protecting your heart, supporting your kidney function and improving your metabolic health, you'll find the advice for each one looks similar. That's because your body's systems are deeply interconnected: what affects one will have ripple effects across the others. Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic health, or CKM health, is a perfect example. When any one of these systems is compromised, it can lead to problems with the others. Therefore, it's not uncommon for health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease to develop or worsen simultaneously - a condition collectively known as CKM syndrome. The reverse is also true, so habits that are healthy for your heart will have a positive effect on your kidneys and metabolic system and vice versa. Consider these simple strategies that align with the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8, a list of healthy steps that can improve overall health. Learn more about how these habits and health measures affect your CKM health at Heart.org. Choose Healthy Foods - Food is your body's fuel, so fill your tank wisely. Certain types of foods can help your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and triglycerides stay within healthy ranges, while poor nutrition can push those numbers into more dangerous territory. Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, plant-based proteins (e.g. beans, legumes and nuts) and lean animal proteins (e.g. seafood, skinless poultry and low-fat dairy). Drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit added sugar and salty or fatty foods. Stay Physically Active - Exercise doesn't have to feel like a chore - in fact, some of your favorite hobbies may already count. The American Heart Association recommends aiming for 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity like dancing, gardening or walking, moving quickly enough to elevate your heart rate and break a light sweat. Alternatively, choose 75 weekly minutes of vigorous exercise that gets you breathing hard and fast; think running, swimming, playing tennis or riding your bike on hilly terrain. Avoid Nicotine - Tobacco and other nicotine products can raise your blood pressure, damage blood vessels and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke, which are all bad news for your CKM health. If you're currently trying to quit, you aren't alone, so don't be afraid to seek out support groups and resources to help. Prioritize Healthy Sleep - Sleep gives your body a chance to rest and recover from the day, but it's often one of the first things people sacrifice when life gets busy. Poor sleep can increase your risk for heart disease, weight gain and other issues. Aim for a solid 7-9 hours a night. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and comfortable, and do your best to limit distractions like late-night smartphone scrolling. Watch Your Blood Pressure - When your blood pressure is high, it forces your heart to work harder to pump blood through the body, which can weaken it over time. It can also damage the delicate arteries in and around the kidneys, putting CKM health further at risk. Information is power, so check your blood pressure frequently to know whether further action is needed to keep it under control. Manage Your Blood Sugar - High blood sugar can damage the kidneys, eyes, blood vessels and more, thereby increasing your chance of developing harmful CKM conditions. Controlling blood sugar is particularly important for people with diabetes. If you don't have diabetes and still experience frequent blood sugar spikes and crashes, talk to your doctor. Control Your Cholesterol - Cholesterol comes in both "bad" (LDL) and "good" (HDL) forms, requiring a balancing act to keep your levels within a healthy range. If LDL is high and HDL is low, your risk of clogged blood vessels, heart attack and stroke are higher. Healthy levels keep blood flowing to your heart and kidneys, supporting your metabolic health in the process. See your doctor for regular bloodwork so you can monitor cholesterol changes. Maintain a Healthy Weight - Since excess body weight puts pressure on the heart, kidneys and other organs, a healthy body weight helps lower your risk of CKM syndrome. Whether you're hoping to maintain or reduce your weight, regular exercise, healthy eating and quality sleep are all great ways to achieve your goals. |
| | Avoiding a Costly Lockout: 4 Reasons to Duplicate Your Car Key(Feature Impact) Losing your keys may be frustrating, but realizing you're locked out of your car - without a spare key - can be truly panic-inducing. The price of getting back on the road can depend on several factors, including your vehicle make and model, the type of key that needs replacing and whether the situation calls for emergency roadside assistance. Avoiding a potentially pricey and stressful lockout, which occurs for nearly 4 million Americans each year, starts by planning ahead. According to KeyMe Locksmiths, a service that makes it easy to duplicate car keys at up to 70% off dealership prices, creating a spare before the original is lost, addressing worn keys before they break and keeping backups in secure locations can reduce the need for emergency locksmith services. "A good rule of thumb is to have at least two working keys for your vehicle," said Samantha Jahnke, chief experience officer for KeyMe Locksmiths. "If you're down to one, make a spare while you still have a working key. It can save you stress and expense if you're ever locked out." Consider these four common reasons drivers make duplicate keys, and how planning ahead can help prevent a lockout from becoming a costly problem. Have a Backup for Lost or Damaged Keys One car key isn't enough, because all it takes is one accident or memory lapse to disrupt your day. Maybe you already had a spare key, but it's been a while since you've seen it. Or perhaps you have a habit of locking your key inside your vehicle, so you'd feel better with an extra. Having a spare - or a spare for the spare - gives you peace of mind you have another way to get back on the road without additional hassle. Give Another Driver Convenient Access If you share a vehicle with another member of your household, it makes life more convenient for each driver to have their own keys. Instead of passing the primary set back and forth, or arguing over who saw them last, both of you will have reliable access to the car when you need it. Plus, a spare set of keys makes a nice surprise when it's time to give a new driver in the house access to the car. Keep a Spare Set for Travel When you're far from home, it can be especially risky to only have one set of keys with you. If they happen to fall out of your pocket or get misplaced at the hotel, you could wind up stranded hundreds of miles away, facing the stress of finding a replacement service in an unfamiliar area. Bring a spare to keep in a secure location, like a purse or backpack that always stays on you, so you can focus on enjoying your vacation. If you realize before a trip you don't have a spare, plan ahead and get a duplicate made before you hit the road. Make an Extra for a Used Vehicle Sometimes buying a used vehicle means the previous owner has already done the work of losing the spare key. If your car only comes with one key, make a backup as soon as possible. Having two working keys can also pay off when it's time to sell or trade in your vehicle, as a missing spare may reduce its value or give a buyer another reason to negotiate. Learn more about duplicating keys for more than 40,000 different vehicle makes, models and years at CopyKeys.com. |
| | Proteja su corazón y su cerebro conociendo los signos y síntomas de la fibrilación auricular(Feature Impact) Hay muchas cosas que pueden hacer que su corazón palpite, se acelere o se salte un latido. En sentido figurado, podría ser la sonrisa de un ser querido, el susto de una película o el momento en que la montaña rusa llega a la cima. En un sentido mucho más literal, un latido irregular podría indicar que está experimentando fibrilación auricular, o FA. Los síntomas de la fibrilación auricular no siempre son tan evidentes como esos momentos que provocan adrenalina. De hecho, según investigaciones de la American Heart Association, el 62% de las personas con FA no tenían conocimiento previo de la afección antes de ser diagnosticadas. Dado que la FA puede aumentar hasta cinco veces las probabilidades de sufrir un accidente cerebrovascular, informarse con anticipación puede ser una forma eficaz de proteger su salud a largo plazo. La FA es un tipo de arritmia, o trastorno del ritmo cardíaco, que ocurre cuando las señales eléctricas del corazón se activan de forma anormal, provocando un latido irregular. Más de 10 millones de personas en los EE. UU. viven con FA; si usted es una de ellas, hay muchas maneras de encontrar conexión, apoyo y recursos que pueden ayudarle. “Es importante que las personas comprendan sus factores de riesgo, reconozcan los posibles síntomas y mantengan conversaciones regulares con su profesional de la salud”, dijo el Dr. Javier Sánchez, electrofisiólogo cardíaco de HCA Healthcare. “La detección temprana y el manejo proactivo pueden marcar una diferencia que salve vidas.” Esta información de expertos puede ayudarle a entender qué debe buscar y qué medidas tomar si usted o un ser querido vive con fibrilación auricular. Síntomas comunes Aunque la FA no siempre causa síntomas perceptibles, conocer las señales puede ayudarle a proteger su salud. La FA puede sentirse como una sensación de aleteo en el pecho, un corazón que golpea fuerte o latidos que se saltan. Algunas personas también sienten fatiga, mareos o dificultad para respirar. Los síntomas pueden aparecer y desaparecer, y pueden variar de leves a más graves. Experimentar cualquier tipo de síntoma cardíaco puede ser aterrador y abrumador, pero intente mantener la calma y preste atención a la sensación para poder describirla a su médico. Factores de riesgo Cualquier persona puede desarrollar FA, pero ciertos factores la hacen más o menos probable. Algunos factores de riesgo de arritmia, como envejecer o tener antecedentes familiares, son inevitables. Otros, como fumar, consumir alcohol o vivir con presión arterial alta sin control, le dan el poder de realizar cambios que reduzcan el riesgo. Las personas con diabetes, obesidad, apnea del sueño u otras afecciones cardíacas también tienen más probabilidades de experimentar FA. La relación entre la fibrilación auricular y derrame cerebral Cuando el corazón late de forma irregular, la sangre no puede circular por él con eficiencia. Esto puede provocar coágulos sanguíneos que, a su vez, pueden bloquear el flujo de sangre al cerebro y causar un accidente cerebrovascular. Aunque derrame cerebrales una de las principales causas de muerte y discapacidad en los EE. UU., en gran medida es prevenible y tratable. Incluso alguien que ya ha tenido un accidente cerebrovascular puede recuperarse, controlar su afección y encaminarse hacia una mejor salud. Diagnóstico de la fibrilación auricular Detectar la FA a tiempo puede marcar una diferencia significativa; por eso, aunque no haya experimentado síntomas evidentes, es recomendable hablar con su médico sobre sus factores de riesgo e inquietudes. Su equipo de atención médica puede realizar pruebas para confirmar un diagnóstico y recomendarle el mejor plan de acción. Opciones de tratamiento Dependiendo de la etapa de su FA, su médico podría sugerirle medicamentos, procedimientos quirúrgicos o no quirúrgicos, o cambios en el estilo de vida, como el programa Los 8 Pasos Esenciales Para Mi Salud de la American Heart Association, para apoyar la salud de su corazón. Mantenerse físicamente activo, dejar el tabaco, mantener un peso saludable y controlar su presión arterial, entre otras medidas, pueden ayudarle a manejar afecciones cardíacas y reducir su riesgo futuro de accidente cerebrovascular. Recuerde: la prevención es la mejor cura, así que, aunque no haya recibido un diagnóstico de arritmia, puede comenzar a trabajar hacia estos hábitos más saludables. Explore más información y recursos en Heart.org/AFibfacts. Fotos cortesía de Shutterstock |
| | From Pregnancy to Parenthood: How Medicaid Supports Women Across the Maternal Health Journey(Feature Impact) When women are planning, expanding or raising families, access to healthcare is a vital source of physical and mental support. For millions of women and families across the U.S., Medicaid provides that support, enabling parents and children to access the reproductive, maternal and pediatric healthcare they need to thrive. It's there for anyone who needs it, from working adults to families navigating unemployment or disability. To learn about how Medicaid supports growing families through every stage of the parenthood journey, consider this information from the maternal health experts at Community Catalyst. Making Family Planning Possible When people are able to plan and prepare to welcome children into the world, it can remove a lot of stress, uncertainty and complication from their journeys. Medicaid family-planning coverage may include reproductive health counseling, pre-pregnancy screenings, many forms of FDA-approved contraception and other preventive services. Comprehensive access to birth control allows women and couples to make their own decisions about pregnancy timing or spacing between siblings. Supporting Healthy Pregnancies Pregnancy is no small endeavor, and a woman with a healthcare team at her side is better prepared to face whatever challenges may arise. Pregnancy often requires frequent appointments for ultrasounds, laboratory testing and monitoring - all of which are made possible and affordable through Medicaid. Since 1 in 4 Medicaid recipients are women ages 15-49, this care can make a difference during their childbearing years. Covering Labor and Delivery Costs Labor and birth can be unpredictable, but being able to afford them shouldn't be. Without Medicaid, which finances approximately 41% of U.S. births, based on data from the National Center for Health Statistics, the cost of hospitalization and delivery could be financially devastating to young families. Coverage for labor, delivery and NICU care, if needed, gives parents the ability to focus on their new babies instead of overwhelming medical bills. Providing Postpartum Care The need for maternal healthcare doesn't end when mother and child are discharged from the hospital. Physical recovery takes time, especially if there were any complications during the pregnancy or delivery. Beyond that, postpartum women may need mental health support, treatment for chronic conditions, contraception renewals and other health services that Medicaid can provide. Currently, 49 states plus Washington, D.C. have extended postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months, which helps new mothers get continuous care without worrying about insurance lapses. Caring for Growing Kids Nearly half of all Medicaid recipients in the U.S. are children ages 0-18 - and sometimes kids qualify for Medicaid even when their parents don't. The program can help new parents stay up to date with well-child visits for infants, immunizations and ongoing preventive care throughout childhood. To learn more about access to essential services at every stage of life, visit communitycatalyst.org/maternalhealth. Filling Gaps in Pregnancy and Postpartum Care: Kayla and Tru's Story When Kayla found out she was pregnant at 24 years old, she had no idea how she was going to afford all the costs that were coming. Despite having part-time employment and primary insurance through her mother, she faced gaps in coverage for pregnancy care. Qualifying for Medicaid changed everything. Not only did it cover Kayla's prenatal visits, labs, ultrasounds and delivery, but once her son Tru was born, both mother and baby required an extended hospital stay. Medicaid made it possible for Tru to get the care he needed in the NICU while Kayla recovered from birth complications. Afterward, the program continued to cover Kayla and Tru for follow-up appointments and well-child visits. She's grateful it was there during her time of need and has one simple message to share: If you qualify for Medicaid, apply. "You never know what's going to happen," she said. "I didn't expect to be in the hospital as long. I didn't expect for him to be where he was. But it was definitely needed and helpful." Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (mother leaning over hospital bassinet) |
| Rock Island's First MurderThis is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.You can't blame the judge, the fourteen lawyers, the prospective jury members, and the audience for all being just a… |
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| Iowa DNR investigating fish kill, likely manure spill in Dry Branch CreekThe Iowa DNR is investigating a fish kill and high ammonia levels in Dry Branch Creek after reports of cloudy water and a strong manure smell near Ossian. |
| RICo Dems: Pritzker to be guest speaker at EM Labor PicnicThe Rock Island County Democrats announced Gov. JB Pritzker will be the featured speaker at it annual Labor Picnic. |
| Iowa labor experts speak on UnityPoint unionization efforts, worker challengesLabor experts on Iowa Press discuss falling union membership rates, corporate opposition, and workforce challenges facing Iowa workers. |
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| Moline hosts Illinois State Horseshoe Tournament with nearly 100 competitorsNearly 100 competitors are in Moline for the Illinois State Horseshoe Tournament, where defending champion Austin Bailey is facing a tough field. |
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| ‘It would just paralyze me’; Illinois farmer shares mental health struggles, concerns over new policyData from the National Rural Health Association indicates the suicide rate for farmers is 3.5 times higher than the general population. |
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| Buffalo voters to decide on selling city water system to Iowa American WaterBuffalo, Iowa, residents will vote on a deal to sell the city's water and sewer system to Iowa American Water amid concerns over PFAS and discolored tap water. |