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

Monday, May 18th, 2026
	The Last Raft This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.For Rock Islanders, July 1915 is another date that should live in infamy.By the end of the Civil War, the Rock Island…
	Why the Supreme Court's voting rights ruling could play a big role at the local level The Supreme Court's recent ruling threatens the power of racial-minority voters in Voting Rights Act cases about not just Congress, but also at least 17 state and local governments, NPR finds.
	Joie de Diva: “Master Class,” at the Black Box Theatre through May 24 Pairing up with Opera Quad Cities proves to be a recipe for greatness at the Black Box Theatre, because make no mistake: There's something truly special about Master Class.
	For 20 years, Stephen Colbert distinguished truth from truthiness The Late Show with Stephen Colbert ends on Thursday. Here's how he has evolved to meet the moment.
	Montana tribes combine traditional knowledge and Western science in climate plan The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are moving forward with their climate plan despite the loss of state support and federal funding.
	It takes a village – or a Phoenix suburb – to wrangle a wayward tortoise When a large tortoise named Rex got loose, a Phoenix-area neighborhood went into a tizzy. More than just a fun commotion, Rex's daring getaway shows the challenges of sulcata tortoise ownership.
	Severe Thunderstorm Warning until MON 4:45 AM CDT Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Wind Gusts and Hail Expected
	Special Weather Statement until MON 3:30 AM CDT Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Impacting Portions of Iowa and Illinois
	Peru's electoral board confirms June 7 presidential runoff Authorities confirmed on Sunday the official results of the first round of the presidential elections in early April, with Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez advancing to the runoff on June 7.
	Drone strikes UAE nuclear plant highlighting risk of renewed war A drone strike sparked a fire on the edge of the United Arab Emirates' sole nuclear power plant on Sunday in what authorities called an "unprovoked terrorist attack."
Sunday, May 17th, 2026
	Where to find Davenport’s mobile speed cabinets Quad City drivers, here’s where to find Davenport’s mobile speed cabinets.
	Fuel Growing Families with Breakfasts that Deliver Nutrition and Flavor (Feature Impact) Whether you're enjoying a leisurely weekend morning with the family or savoring those last few moments before rushing out the door, a filling, healthy breakfast is a perfect way to begin the day. Easy recipes that take less than 30 minutes (and can even be prepared the night before) make busy mornings a breeze. Sheet Pan Pancakes are simple to whip up any day of the week - no flipping required - while Healthy Sausage Breakfast Muffins let you put protein on the menu in a kid-friendly package. When shopping for these delicious breakfasts, look for the Healthy Family Project and Produce for Kids logos to choose healthier foods and make a difference locally. "Breakfast doesn't have to be complicated to be powerful - a quick, balanced meal can help kids stay full, focused and energized for the day ahead," said Tony Castillo, contributing registered dietitian at Healthy Family Project. "For growing kids, a protein-rich breakfast can help support energy, satiety and the building blocks they need as they develop. The best breakfast is one that's simple, satisfying and realistic for busy mornings because consistency matters more than perfection." The versatility of these pancakes allows for endless customization and experimentation with different toppings, from fresh fruit and nuts to savory options like cheese and spinach, making them an ideal fit for the whole family. They also freeze well, so you can pop them in the toaster to have breakfast ready in a flash when hectic schedules interfere with your morning routine. For another on-the-go solution, these breakfast muffins are made with just five ingredients, including protein pancake mix to help fuel the day. The savory combination of turkey sausage and cheddar cheese is complemented by the sweetness of onion, giving them the flavor your family desires. To find more ways to put a nutritious breakfast on the family table, visit HealthyFamilyProject.com. Sheet Pan Pancakes Recipe courtesy of the Healthy Family Project Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 6 Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/4 cups milk 1 large egg 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup sliced strawberries 1/4 cup blueberries 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips Preheat oven to 425 F. Cover baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. In large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Add milk, egg and melted butter; mix until smooth. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and smooth into even layer that covers pan. Top with strawberries, blueberries and chocolate chips. Bake 5-7 minutes, or until cooked and golden brown. Let cool slightly before cutting into squares. Healthy Sausage Breakfast Muffins Recipe courtesy of the Healthy Family Project Prep time: 3 minutes Cook time: 23 minutes Servings: 12 Nonstick cooking spray 1 onion, diced 1 pound turkey sausage 4 eggs 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup protein pancake mix Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. Spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. In prepared skillet over medium heat, cook onion until translucent. Add turkey sausage and cook until no longer pink. Remove from heat. In large mixing bowl, lightly beat eggs. Add shredded cheese, pancake mix and sausage and onion mixture; mix well. Fill prepared muffin cups about 3/4 full with mixture. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
	Why 'Waiting Until It Breaks' Can Be an Expensive HVAC Strategy (Feature Impact) For many homeowners, heating and cooling systems fall into the "out of sight, out of mind" category. However, even if the air is flowing and the temperature feels right, taking an "if it's still running, it's still fine" approach to your HVAC system today can lead to higher repair bills, rising energy costs, uncomfortable downtime and rushed replacement decisions tomorrow. While it may seem cost-effective in the short-term, the experts at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) suggest proactive maintenance and planned upgrades as the smarter financial move in many cases. The Hidden Costs of Waiting HVAC systems rarely fail without warning. Instead, they decline gradually, becoming less efficient and more prone to breakdowns over time. They commonly fail during extreme summer heat or winter cold when demand is highest. A broken air conditioner during the peak of summer doesn't just create discomfort; it often comes with longer service wait times and higher emergency repair costs, while also leaving you with less time to compare equipment options, take advantage of rebates or make a convenient installation appointment. Small issues - like a dirty filter restricting airflow or worn components adding stress to other parts of the system - can also snowball into bigger, more expensive repairs. Similarly, inefficient systems, especially older or poorly maintained ones, can drive up monthly energy costs, using more energy and putting additional stress on the components to maintain the same comfort level. Signs Your HVAC System Needs Attention Even if your HVAC system hasn't broken down, it may already be showing signs of trouble. Consider these warning signs that your HVAC system may be due for replacement: Rooms heating and cooling unevenly Rising utility bills with no clear cause Strange noises or unusual odors Weak airflow or reduced comfort Frequent service calls System age approaching 10-15 years or older The Value of Preventive Maintenance Routine maintenance can help catch small issues early before they become costly repairs while extending system lifespan and maintaining performance. Regularly replacing or cleaning filters helps maintain airflow and efficiency while keeping vents clear and outdoor units free of debris ensures your system can operate at its best. Professional seasonal tune-ups can also help catch small issues early and extend the lifespan of your equipment. How Planning Ahead Can Pay Off Replacing an aging HVAC system before it fails gives homeowners an invaluable asset: time. Instead of making a rushed decision in extreme temperatures, you can make thoughtful decisions based on comfort goals, budget and home needs. It also allows for evaluating newer technologies that can improve everyday comfort and lower operating costs. Today's systems offer features that weren't available a decade ago, allowing for customization of indoor environments that was once out of reach. Benefits of Modern HVAC Upgrades Upgrading your system isn't just about avoiding breakdowns - it's about enhancing your everyday comfort and improving efficiency and control. Modern HVAC solutions, like Zoned Comfort Solutions from Mitsubishi Electric, allow for personalized temperatures in different rooms or areas of the home. Using energy-efficient heat pump technology, they provide heating and cooling in one efficient system for better temperature consistency and control in every season. Newer systems - both ducted and ductless - tend to run more quietly and offer flexible installation. They can be used with existing ductwork or installed in homes without it, making them a strong option for room additions, garages, sunrooms or spaces that are traditionally difficult to heat or cool. Long-Term Benefits of Upgrading When you shift to proactive HVAC maintenance, the benefits can add up and you can gain confidence your home is prepared, regardless of what the seasons have to offer. Upgrading your system ahead of a total failure reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, lowers energy costs and provides more consistent comfort throughout the year. There's also the added bonus of increasing your home's appeal and value for future buyers. While waiting until it breaks might feel like the easy choice, it may also be the most expensive one. Visit mitsubishicomfort.com to explore your options and learn more.
	Navigating Travel Plans: When Travel Advisors Can Take You Further Than AI (Feature Impact) From comparing prices to dreaming up bucket-list destinations, artificial intelligence has become a starting point for millions of travelers who are turning to tech for early-stage planning. However, travelers consistently emphasize the importance of having accessible expert support during the process. In fact, 96% of U.S. travelers said having access to a human for support is important when booking a vacation, according to a new survey commissioned by ALG Vacations, a leading provider of vacation packages to top global destinations, including 48% who said it's "extremely" important. Though 24% of survey respondents said the main way they use AI is for comparing prices or finding travel deals, 63% of Americans said they trust a travel advisor as much as or more than AI tools when planning a vacation, underscoring that AI alone is not enough for most U.S. travelers. Going beyond the planning phase, 77% of survey respondents said that even if they use AI for travel planning, they're still likely to rely on a human to make final decisions, especially for booking, payment or resolving issues. In honor of Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, consider these ways travelers can take advantage of the expertise of an advisor to get the most out of every trip. Navigating Travel Uncertainty Today's travel landscape can feel unpredictable, from shifting policies to headlines that make things feel bigger or closer than they actually are, but that doesn't mean travelers should avoid taking the trip; it just means they should plan smarter. Because 42% of travelers fear important details could be missed if relying entirely on AI to plan a trip, that's where a travel advisor comes in to help separate what's real from what's just noise. This expertise allows for smarter, more confident decisions, and aids in choosing destinations that align with travelers' current comfort levels. Unlocking Added Value Planning thoughtfully doesn't mean spending more, it means getting more for the amount spent. Travel advisors often have access to exclusive perks and upgrades not directly available to consumers or pulled in by AI prompts, providing added value that goes beyond the cost of the vacation. In addition to added amenities, advisors' insider recommendations can help match those perks to travelers' preferences. In fact, for vacations booked during the month of May, travelers can take advantage of The Great Getaway Savings Event from ALG Vacations, which features up to $950 in savings through a combination of instant savings, promo codes, air credits and group offers on trips to destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, the continental United States, Europe, Central America, Dominican Republic and the South Pacific. Providing Protection and Peace of Mind Modern travelers want options, and the ability to adjust plans, add protection or pivot when needed has become a top priority. A travel advisor can assist with adding that flexibility through travel protection that provides extra peace of mind - whether that means rebooking or changing plans if something comes up. At the end of the day, it's about helping travelers feel prepared so they can relax and truly enjoy their vacations. Stepping in When Things Go Awry When trips become complex, multi-destination or disrupted by delays or cancellations, travelers are more likely to want a real person involved. In fact, 39% of survey respondents worry there will be no support if something goes wrong. If a flight is canceled or a resort overbooks, travelers aren't stuck refreshing an app; they have an expert there every step of the way - before, during and after the trip - listening to them, learning about their preferences, advocating for them and providing guidance based on first-hand experience throughout the process. For a one-stop-shop to help bring every stage of travel planning seamlessly together, visit TravelAdvisorsGetYouThere.com to find a travel advisor near you who can provide additional assistance with planning, booking and more. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
	Navigating Life with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (Feature Impact) Living with obstructive or non-obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can affect everyday life, your plans and the people around you. For some people, every morning with the condition can feel a bit like a "roll of the dice." Simple tasks like making the bed, climbing stairs or working at the computer can lead to breathlessness or an inability to focus. What may start as a "good day" can quickly lead to fatigue and thoughts that you "pushed too hard." HCM is a complex heart condition caused by abnormal genes that leads to thickening and stiffening of the heart muscle, requiring more energy for the heart to pump effectively. The condition, which can develop at any point in life, reduces the amount of oxygen-rich blood being pumped to the rest of the body, which leads to symptoms and potential complications, especially in those who develop the condition before age 40, according to research published in "Circulation," the American Heart Association's flagship journal. To learn more about the condition, consider this information from the experts at Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, sponsors of the SONATA-HCM clinical trial studying a potential new treatment for HCM. HCM Signs and Symptoms Some people with HCM don't have symptoms in the early stages but develop them over time. Particularly if you have a family history of HCM or the abnormal gene, beware of these common symptoms: Feeling fatigued or lacking energy Breathlessness, especially with physical activity Chest discomfort or pain Lightheadedness, fainting or dizziness Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs or stomach Potential HCM Complications People living with HCM may develop further complications, such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. The condition can also lead to sudden death, especially in children, teens, young adults and competitive athletes, who may not have any (or few) symptoms and are unaware they have a heart problem. Common Risk Factors HCM can run in families, and children of an affected parent have a 50% chance of having HCM, based on additional research published in "Circulation." Other family members also have an increased risk of having HCM. To assess your risk, collect a family health history, noting family members who passed away suddenly, especially if they were 40 years old or younger; family members with heart failure, atrial fibrillation or other cardiac events such as heart attack or stroke; and family members who have had a heart transplant or use a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Diagnosing HCM Genetic testing is the first step to diagnosing HCM after experiencing symptoms. If the testing shows you (or a family member) have the genetic abnormality, it's important to see a cardiologist to check your heart and confirm the diagnosis. Living with HCM Currently, no medications have been proven to prevent HCM or reduce the risk of death from the condition. If you have obstructive HCM, your health care provider may recommend a medication, such as a cardiac myosin inhibitor (CMI), that may improve the obstruction and reduce symptoms. Recommendations also could include regular monitoring to check for changes in the heart, light-to-moderate physical activity, surgery for severe cases, participation in clinical trials or lifestyle changes to control high blood pressure, sleep apnea and obesity. These conditions could increase your risk of developing complications of HCM. Why Enrolling in a Clinical Trial Could Make a Difference Nearly every treatment breakthrough begins with patients who choose to participate in research. By joining the SONATA-HCM study, you may help advance care for those living with HCM. The global Phase 3 clinical trial is investigating whether sotagliflozin, a once-daily dual-action SGLT1 and SGLT2 (Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter) inhibitor, can improve symptoms and daily functioning for people with HCM. Earlier studies published in the "New England Journal of Medicine" suggest it may lower the risk of heart failure events, heart attacks and strokes. Researchers are now assessing its potential benefits - including improving how heart cells handle sugar and salt and use energy more efficiently - for people living with obstructive and non-obstructive HCM. To explore whether taking part in the study is right for you, visit SONATA-HCM.com. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Frustration at the Pump: Why Americans are Exploring Electric Vehicles (Feature Impact) For more than one-third of Americans, one simple number is leading them to research electric vehicles: the final tally at a recent gas station fill-up. This, according to new research from Hyundai Motor America, isn't a hypothetical situation. In fact, 23% of respondents reported it's happened to them more than once. For nearly half of Americans, pulling up to the pump now brings frustration or outright dread. Many drivers have a number in mind where the math begins shifting, and once the shift happens, it rarely goes away. The pump is no longer just the close of a sale; for a growing number of drivers, it's where questions begin. For 23% of those surveyed, $5 per gallon is where they would start considering alternatives to a gas-powered vehicle. While some say they wouldn't consider alternatives based on gas costs at all, this meaningful share of Americans points toward a specific tipping point. Some begin by comparing models or brands while others find themselves on an automaker's website, further along in the process than they initially expected to be. Most don't act on this impulse right away, but drivers are increasingly caught somewhere between curious and committed - and 46% of those surveyed said they'd be likely to seriously research an EV. The desire to leave the pump behind, which an EV would allow for, is a deal nearly half of respondents said they would take. However, the transition isn't frictionless as charging access and range anxiety remain the top concerns for 28% of potential buyers. While the move toward electric vehicles is often framed as a long-term decision made with spreadsheets and financial planning, for many Americans, it's beginning somewhere smaller: a routine fuel stop and an eye-opening receipt. If you've found yourself dismayed at the pump, find more information on electric vehicles at HyundaiUSA.com. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	4 Endodontist-Approved Tips to Help Save Your Natural Teeth (Feature Impact) Nothing looks, feels or functions quite like your natural teeth. They're designed to last a lifetime and, when properly cared for, they often do. Even in the event of an infection or disease that requires additional care, most Americans agree their natural teeth are worth protecting. In fact, a survey commissioned by the American Association of Endodontists found 61% of Americans would prefer a treatment that saves their natural tooth and about 78% would do almost anything to avoid losing one. Despite this strong preference, many people delay or avoid dental care altogether. Financial concerns frequently disrupt dental care, with 60% of survey respondents admitting they've put off going to the dentist even when they suspected something was wrong. However, postponing care can turn a manageable problem into a more serious one. When facing dental problems, like severe tooth pain or infection, some may consider removing the tooth as a quick fix. Extraction isn't always the best solution, though, and can have lasting consequences on both oral health and confidence. "When possible, you should always consider treatments to save your teeth," said Dr. Craig Noblett, president, American Association of Endodontists. "You may think, 'why not have a tooth pulled, especially if no one can see it,' but you will know your tooth is missing and it will negatively impact your quality of life. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift, affecting your ability to properly chew and ruin your smile." Another option exists: root canal treatment. While survey data reveals 39% of people are equally concerned about the procedure and losing a natural tooth, 33% worry more about the procedure itself. However, advancements in technology and anesthesia have made root canals - dental procedures to remove inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth then clean, fill and seal it - are more comfortable than their reputation suggests, similar to getting a routine filling. To help maintain your smile for the long-term, consider these tips from Noblett to protect your natural teeth and avoid unnecessary tooth loss: Act immediately when you experience symptoms of swelling or pain. Pain, swelling or sensitivity shouldn't be ignored. Acting fast is especially critical in urgent situations. For example, fewer than half of Americans (46%) are aware that a knocked-out tooth can often be saved if treated quickly by a dental specialist. Most endodontists can accommodate emergency cases, even on weekends, ensuring you'll be seen quickly. Choose root canal treatment instead of extraction when possible. No denture, bridge or implant will look, feel and function as well as a natural tooth. In many cases, extraction is more painful than the infection itself and replacing an extracted tooth with an artificial one requires additional dental visits that can quickly add up. On the other hand, a root canal completed by an endodontist is virtually painless and typically requires less follow up. In fact, patients who experience root canals are six times more likely to describe it as painless compared to those who have a tooth extracted. Ask questions about your treatment options. If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, ask whether a root canal is an alternative. A study published in the "Journal of Translational Medicine" suggests that successfully treating tooth infection and inflammation through root canal therapy may support broader health benefits, including improvements in markers related to blood sugar and cholesterol, reducing both the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Look for a specialist if needed. If you're told root canal is not an option, ask why and request a second opinion. Since endodontists can offer solutions dentists cannot, asking for a referral to a local specialist may allow for more advanced care. You can also use the American Association of Endodontists' Find an Endodontist search tool to find a practice near you. Learn more about how endodontists can help protect your natural teeth for a lifetime by visiting aae.org/patients.
	A Morning Family Favorite Made Fresh A Morning Family Favorite Made Fresh (Feature Impact) It’s often true that the best warm-weather meals, from filling breakfasts to flavorful dinners, are made with the freshest ingredients. To ensure your family’s favorite recipes are up to par, start by sourcing local produce. For example, Michigan Asparagus didn’t take an international flight to your local supermarket – it took about 3-7 days to get from the field to your table rather than 10-20 days for imported asparagus. Grown on more than 90 multi-generational family farms, its thick texture and fresh flavor can be found at your neighborhood store. Available from around Mother’s Day through the end of June, the season relies primarily on natural rainfall, with irrigation used only when extremely dry conditions make it necessary, resulting in a more sustainable and environmentally responsible product. Plus, it’s easy to prepare – 5-8 minutes in boiling water, or 2-3 minutes in a skillet like in this Asparagus Frittata that’s perfect for busy mornings. You can feel good knowing you’re serving loved ones a nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetable with no fat, no cholesterol and little sodium to start the day with a hearty yet nutritious breakfast. To find more warm-weather favorites that put fresh produce at the center of your plate, visit MichiganAsparagus.org. Watch video to see how to make this recipe! Asparagus Frittata Recipe courtesy of Michigan Asparagus Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Servings: 2 1 tablespoon salted butter5 fresh Michigan Asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces 3 eggs1/4 cup heavy cream1 sprig fresh dill, chopped1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese1/4 teaspoon black pepper1 tablespoon sliced green onion4 cherry tomatoes, quarteredmicrogreens, for garnish (optional) Preheat oven to 375 F.In 6-inch, oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add asparagus and cook 2-3 minutes.In bowl, whisk eggs, cream, dill, salt, cheese and pepper. Pour egg mixture over asparagus.Allow sides to set. Check by gently pulling egg away from side of skillet. Sides should appear cooked and become firm.Top eggs with green onion and tomatoes. Place skillet in oven. Bake about 5 minutes until center of frittata is set and firm.
	Good chance for Monday morning showers and storms Most of the weekend ended up OK in the Quad Cities! We had some storms overnight Friday into Saturday but then most of the rain stayed away after that. Our luck runs out late Sunday night and Monday morning. There's a good chance for showers and storms early Monday. Things quiet down and cool down [...]
	Crews respond to East Moline crash The crash was around 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Kennedy Drive and 30th Avenue.
	Rock Island police seeks public help locating missing 22-year-old The Rock Island Police Department is asking for the public's help locating 22-year-old Jackson Ruud.
	2 Cambridge graduates accepted into prestigious U.S. military academies Two Cambridge High School graduates are preparing to serve their country after earning appointments to prestigious U.S. military academies.
	Military aircrew in 'stable condition' following midair collision at Idaho air show Two jets appeared to collide and their crews ejected during a performance at an air show at a military base in Idaho. "The aircrew involved in the incident are in stable condition," the base reported.
	Trump and administration officials address Christian gathering on National Mall The conservative prayer event was organized by Freedom 250, a public-private group working with the White House to organize the celebration of America's 250 birthday this summer.
	Police seek help finding missing Rock Island man The Rock Island Police Department wants your help to find Jackson Ruud, who was near 30th Street and 12th Avenue on Friday around 5 p.m. Ruud is 22, 5-foot-5, 142 pounds and was last seen wearing a white t-shirt, blue jeans, a ball cap and carrying a backpack. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is [...]
	The food recalls, alerts issued over salmonella concerns this month Many of the items were linked to the same potentially contaminated ingredient.
	Heavy police presence, ambulance, on scene of Davenport incident A heavy police presence was near the intersection of Dixwell and Howell streets Davenport, shortly after 1 p.m. Sunday. Our Quad Cities News crew arrived at the scene to see at least seven squad cars, along with a crime-scene technician vehicle. Neighbors gathered in the area to watch police put up crime scene tape around [...]
	Memorial Day events, ceremonies to remember those who serve Find a complete list of all events and ceremonies happening in the Quad Cities area to honor Memorial Day.
	Rock Island Police asks for help finding missing man Jackson Ruud, 22, was last seen in the area of 30th Street and 12th Avenue at 5 p.m. on Friday, according to a media release.
	QC Rock Academy holds summer kickoff event Academy leadership says they're looking to expand their programs this year with the goal of providing classes for kids under the age of eight.
	Officials: Union workers at Arconic reach tentative agreement in contract negotiations Details are expected to follow.
	Bus riders to Montgomery retrace old steps while fighting a new fight Thousands of people rallied Saturday in Montgomery, Alabama, to push back against conservative states' efforts to dismantle congressional districts that helped secure Black political representation.
	Bettendorf reveals 2026 winning names of snowplows at Public Works Day celebration The results are in for the City of Bettendorf’s Snowplow Naming Contest.
	Iowa Athletics buys NCAA court to replace Carver-Hawkeye Arena flooring The department bought the court that was used in the NCAA Houston Regional Elite Eight, the same court that the Hawkeyes played on this season.
	Clucking egg prices as of 5/15/26 ere’s this week’s egg price update. This is the USDA’s average price per dozen when delivered to the warehouse on Jan. 20, 2026, compared to where prices are now. To see the price, click on the video above. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and [...]
	Retrieving enriched uranium from Iran no easy task We're now past the two-and-a-half month mark since the United States and Israel launched the first attack against Iran. It's not clear how much longer the fragile ceasefire will last. President Trump insists Iran cannot be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon. At the center of that is Iran's stockpile of uranium. It takes enriched [...]
	Illinois' plan to address blight might not be long-term solution Iowa's secretary of state hands over voter registration data to the federal government, and Illinois plans to spend millions of dollars to address blighted neighborhoods. The Illinois Housing Development Authority is investing $9 million to help communities revitalize vacant or abandoned buildings. Local governments can apply for grants to use the money for buying, renovating [...]
	Turek scoffs at notion he's the "establishment" candidate in Dems U.S. Senate race We're one week closer to the Iowa primary. It's now 16 days away. We concentrate this week on the primary for the Democratic party's nomination to the United States Senate, the seat being vacated by Joni Ernst. Josh Turek and Zach Wahls hope to flip the seat in November. Both have elected office experience in [...]
	Ukraine conducts large-scale drone strikes on Russia, killing 4 and wounding 12 others One of Ukraine's largest drone strikes on Russia killed at least four people, including three near Moscow, and wounded a dozen others, local authorities said Sunday.
	'We're in for a bad year': Scientists see warning signs for Lyme disease, tick-borne illnesses As the weather warms up, scientists have a dire warning before you head outdoors.
	Iowa U.S. Senate candidate Josh Turek stumps in Muscatine and Davenport Iowa Democratic Senate candidate Josh Turek spent Saturday in Muscatine and Davenport talking at meet and greets and knocking on doors.
	Iowa Down Ballot: U.S. Senate Ds debate, GOP governors’ preview Democratic U.S. Senate candidates state Sen. Zach Wahls, left, and state Rep. Josh Turek participate May 14, 2026 in a debate sponsored by KCCI TV and Gray Media. (Screenshot from KTIV livestream) Iowa Down Ballot with Dave Price 5/16/26 by Iowa Writers Collaborative Laura Belin of Bleeding Heartland and Kathie Obradovich of Iowa Capital Dispatch are back to help recap the Democratic Senate primary debate and preview the GOP Gubernatorial debate. Read on Substack The Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate held their second debate, with most of the fireworks coming from state Sen. Zach Wahls’ attack on state Rep. Josh Turek’s voting record on abortion and reproductive rights. Dave Price, Laura Belin and I also lift the curtain a bit about debate organization and preview the upcoming GOP governor’s candidate debate coming up May 19. Listen here. Also, while I always include a link for subscriptions to the podcast on Substack, an extra pitch this week: The podcast is growing, and we’d like to keep it going through the November election this year instead of going on hiatus this summer. But we need your help. Please consider a paid subscription today to help us cover production costs, or moving up to the benefactor level if you’re already a paid subscriber. And please spread the word to friends who might enjoy the podcast. Thanks! The Iowa Down Ballot Podcast with Dave Price is a production of the Iowa Writers’ Collaborative. Paid subscriptions help cover production costs. Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Illinois in top 10 of most spam call complaints In 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received more than 2.6 million complaints – some states had far more than others.
	Quad City Area REALTORS announce 2026 first-quarter single-family property statistics Quad City Area REALTORS statistics reflect all single-family residential properties listed or sold by Quad City Area REALTORS within the greater Quad City market area.
	Public meeting on Centennial Bridge to be held Wednesday in Rock Island There will be no formal presentation and people may attend at any time during the three-hour period.
	In Alabama lieutenant governor’s race, big plans for a weak office The Alabama State Capitol as seen on Nov. 24, 2025, in Montgomery, Alabama. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)A state-wide position with minimal power has drawn quite a crowd ahead of Tuesday’s primary election. Nine candidates are running for Alabama lieutenant governor. Seven of them are Republicans while two are Democrats. Republican Will Ainsworth, the current lieutenant governor, is term-limited. The lieutenant governor becomes governor should the occupant of that office die, resign or be removed. The office once had powers comparable to that of the Alabama House speaker, with powers to control legislation and assign senators to committees. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. But the office was stripped of its power in 1999 after a lengthy standoff between then-Lt. Gov. Steve Windom, a Republican, and the Democratic-controlled Senate, which transferred most of Windom’s powers to the Senate President Pro Tem. The role had its powers further decreased by the Senate during the 2026 regular session. Senate Resolution 108, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, allows Senate President Pro Tem to preside over the Senate if the lieutenant governor has not taken his or her seat five minutes after a meeting time. The resolution also removes the lieutenant governor from a committee that assigns committee chairs, removes their power to appoint members to conference committees, gives the Pro Tem the power to recommit bills to committees and gives the Pro Tem and to direct the lieutenant governor to call up legislation carried over to the call of the chair. The last Democrat to be elected lieutenant governor was former Gov. Jim Folsom Jr. in 2006. Democratic voters in the state will choose between Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery and Darryl Perryman in next week’s primary. Ensler said in an interview Friday that his priorities are affordability, healthcare and education and that he’ll work across the aisle and that he would encourage the public to contact senators to help his priorities make it to the Senate floor. “(I would use) the role to communicate and share with the public those priorities and get the public more involved by letting them know that they can call on their senators, so they can come to the state house and be involved in the process,” he said. Perryman said his priorities include expanding Medicaid, increasing the amount of affordable housing and helping save rural hospitals from closing and that he’d work with the Senate to make sure his priorities are addressed. “I would love to try to influence my senators to bring forth the legislation to do that,” he said. “I would love to work with every senator, be you a Republican, Democrat, independent, or whoever, to serve those people.” Republicans on the ballot include Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen; Patrick Bishop; George Childress; Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate; Dr. Stewart Tankersley; Nicole Jones Wadsworth and former Alabama Republican Party Chair John Wahl. Pate said one of his priorities is to lower taxes through decreasing the state income tax and eliminating the grocery tax in the state that he’d use his “great relations in the Senate” and some of the power the position still holds to help advance them. “You still have some power in the gavel as far as running the meeting, but I don’t think it’s a matter about force or by power, you can be persuasive by just how you deal with people and moving a certain agenda along,” he said. Attempts to reach all other Republican candidates were unsuccessful. According to Wahl’s website, his priorities include supporting abortion restrictions, “protecting children from woke policies” and securing elections. Wahl has also touted his endorsement from President Donald Trump, which came the night before qualifying ended. “Our children deserve innocence, not indoctrination,” Wahl’s website said. “He will oppose efforts to introduce gender confusion, racial division and sexualized content to our youth.” Allen’s priorities are not shared on his website. Allen came under criticism for remarks earlier this yearcriticizing Wahl for attending an interfaith event with Muslims and saying “I want no part of Islam” in a statement. Tankersley said on his website that he wants to implement a gas relief tax. “Higher fuel prices make it more expensive to get to work, take kids to school, and run a small business,” the website said. Childress and Wadsworth state on their respective websites that they will fight to expand rual healthcare initiatives such as telehealth. Bishop said on his website that he wants to expand Medicaid. Because of the limited role the lieutenant governor has, it’s unclear if any candidates’ priorities will be addressed if they are elected. Fundraising According to campaign filings, as of Friday afternoon, Allen and Wahl have raised the most money at $1.6 million and $1.8 million respectively. Allen has spent $1.5 million and Wahl has spent $1.4 million. The filings also show Bishop has raised $8,200 and spent $12,800; Pate has raised $472,500 and spent $531,200; Tankersley has raised $97,400 and spent $95,400 and Wadsworth has raised $190,700 and spent $231,500. Childress has not filed any donations or expenditures as of Friday afternoon. On the Democratic side, Ensler has raised $193,500 and spent just over $106,000 while Perryman has raised $150 and spent nearly $2,300. Meet the Candidates Wes Allen Residence: Troy Occupation: Alabama Secretary of State Education: Bachelor’s from The University of Alabama; Master’s from Troy University Party: Republican Offices held/offices sought: Pike County Probate Court 2009-2018; Alabama House of Representatives 2018-2022; Alabama Secretary of State, 2022-Present Campaign fundraising: Raised $1.6 million and spent $1.5 million as of Friday afternoon. Rick Pate Age: 71 Residence: Lowndesboro Occupation: Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Education: B.S. Ornamental Horticulture from Auburn Party: Republican Offices held/offices sought: Mayor of Lowndesboro, 2008-2018; Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, 2018-Present Campaign fundraising: Raised $472,500 and spent $531,200 as of Friday afternoon. John Wahl Age: 39 Residence: Athens Occupation: Butterfly farmer Education: Unknown Party: Republican Offices held/offices sought: Chair of Alabama Republican Party 2001-2026 Campaign fundraising: Raised $1.8 million and spent $1.4 million as of Friday afternoon. Phillip Ensler Age: 36Residence: MontgomeryOccupation: Alabama State House of Representatives, District 74 (2018-Present)Education: B.S. Political Science George Washington University; J.D. Cardozo School of LawParty: Democratic Offices held/offices sought: Alabama State House of Representatives, 2022-present.Campaign fundraising: Raised over $193,500 and spent just over $106,000 as of Friday afternoon. Darryl Perryman Age: 61Residence: Grove HillOccupation: RetiredEducation: No degreesParty: Democratic Offices held/offices sought: First-time candidateCampaign fundraising: Raised $150 spent $2,300 as of Friday afternoon. Efforts to reach Patrick Bishop, George Childress, Dr. Stewart Tankersley and Nicole Jones Wadsworth were unsuccessful. Courtesy of Alabama Reflector
	Executions nearly doubled in the U.S. last year, and soared abroad The number of people killed in state-sanctioned executions worldwide rose to a 44-year high in 2025, according to a new report from Amnesty International.
	Goldie's Deli in LeClaire to hold ribbon cutting on Monday Goldie's Deli, a local delicatessen with an old school lounge vibe, to hold ribbon cutting beginning at noon on Monday in LeClaire.
	Fraud prevention seminar in DeWitt on May 19 First Central State Bank will host a fraud prevention seminar to the public, featuring an Iowa Attorney General Investigator on Tuesday, May 19.
	Two roadwork projects to begin Monday in Whiteside County The projects include on Interstate 88 near Rock Falls and on Illinois Route 2 in Sterling.
	Central Pool Supply of Moline opens second location in Bettendorf Central Pool Supply of Moline opened a second location in Bettendorf where you can get your pool ready for the season.
	Pasquale's Pizzeria opens food trailer after restaurant fire Pasquale's Pizzeria opens food trailer after restaurant fire in Kewanee.
	Book details Illinois, Rock Island during Revolutionary War Tom Emery has spent his life writing about Illinois history. His latest book includes a chapter on some forgotten Rock Island history.
	One clinic tracks the heavy toll Trump's immigration crackdown takes on mental health Zocalo Health, a clinic in Los Angeles, screens all its patients for depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. It documented a marked increase in those conditions since ICE enforcement actions began.
	Sunday Puzzle: Between the lines NPR's Ayesha Rascoe plays the puzzle with WAMU listener Erin Kealiher and Weekend Edition Puzzlemaster Will Shortz.
	Mound Builders This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Within a few miles of Rock Island lie several prehistoric mounds of the kind that dot much of the Mississippi River…
	The foreign fighters who helped topple Assad — and why China worries about them Thousands of Uyghurs became key fighters against Syria's Assad regime. For the first time, they agreed to be interviewed. NPR spent weeks with some of them to understand why they fled China for Syria.
	New burn bans and Trump's battle with immigration and DEI are impacting forest fires Firefighters say setting fires on purpose is one of the best ways to protect against massive wildfires later. But the Trump administration is banning or stalling preventative burning across the U.S.
	How a CEO and Trump donor is weaponizing tariffs against his rivals Cambria CEO Marty Davis has successfully asked the U.S. government to put tariffs on quartz. His business competitors are crying foul.
Saturday, May 16th, 2026
	New York Magazine reviewing work of writer facing plagiarism allegations The high-profile writer, who has written a forthcoming book about New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, is being investigated by the magazine after being called out for copying the work of other writers.
	Cao, Schroder advance from BESE District 1 Republican primary Getty ImagesA runoff between Republicans will be needed to finalize the field in the November election to fill a vacancy on the state school board. Former Congressman Joseph Cao of Harvey and long-time educator Ellie Schroder of Abita Springs will meet on June 27 to decide who advances in the race for District 1 on the Board of Elementary of Secondary Education. Cao and Schroder finished ahead of New Orleans insurance executive Michael Hollis, who was hoping to replace his brother, Paul Hollis, who left his BESE seat when President Donald Trump appointed him U.S. Mint director. Cao, an attorney who Gov. Jeff Landry appointed to replace Paul Hollis on an interim basis, flirted with an outright win Saturday. He claimed 47% of the vote to 31% for Schroder, the wife of former state Treasurer John Schroder. The GOP runoff winner will go up against Angela Hershey, a retired teacher from Madisonville who didn’t draw an opponent in the Democratic primary, in the Nov. 3 general election. BESE District 1 covers Slidell and most of rural St. Tammany Parish, most of the Jefferson Parish east bank, sections of the Jefferson west bank and parts of Orleans and Tangipahoa parishes. Voters without a party affiliation were allowed to vote in Saturday’s election, when they could choose a Democratic or Republican ballot — or a no-party slate without the races in the semi-closed primaries. For those who picked a party slate, they have to stick with that choice through the June runoffs but can vote for any candidate in the November election. The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education establishes curriculum standards, provides financial oversight and sets teacher certification guidelines for Louisiana’s K-12 public schools. Eight of its 11 members are elected from regional districts across the state, and the governor appoints three to at-large seats. Including Cao, its current roster includes six Republicans and two Democrats. Two of Landry’s three at-large BESE appointees — Conrad Appel and Simone Champagne — are Republicans, while the third, Judy Armstrong, has no party affiliation. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Louisiana Illuminator
	Northshore Judge Billy Burris wins open La. Supreme Court seat Judge Billy Burris, of Louisiana's 22nd District Court, will be Louisiana's next state Supreme Court justice after winning a Republican primary election on May 16, 2026. (Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator)Judge Billy Burris will become Louisiana’s next Supreme Court justice after winning what observers say was one of the most expensive judicial races in Louisiana’s history. Burris, who sits on the state’s 22nd District Court, and his opponent, Judge Blair Downing Edwards of the First Circuit Court of Appeals, ran against each other as Republicans in the GOP primary election where Democratic voters were not allowed to participate. Saturday’s election was the only one for the open District 1 Supreme Court justice seat. No Democratic candidates signed up to run in the race, meaning there will be no general election in the fall. Burris will represent a seat on the Supreme Court which includes St. Tammany, Washington, Tangipahoa, Livingston and St. Bernard parishes as well as a small portion of New Orleans. Louisiana’s corporate community, particularly the oil and gas industry, and the law firms who work for them got behind Burris’ campaign. Person injury and plaintiffs attorneys backed Edwards. The business community and plaintiffs attorneys are typically among the largest contributors to Supreme Court races and always support different candidates, even when the two people running are from the same political party. The two groups are frequently on opposing sides of expensive legal disputes, including those that end up before the Louisiana Supreme Court. Trial lawyers represent people who sue some of Louisiana’s companies, including oil and gas corporations, over alleged injuries and malfeasance. The race also attracted a lot of money from groups who do not disclose their donors. So it’s unclear what other interest groups and individuals might have been contributing to the campaigns. Edwards raised more money than Burris, approximately $1.2 million to his $450,000, according to a review of campaign finance reports. But just one group supporting Burris, First Principles Political Action Committee, spent more than the two campaigns combined by putting approximately $2.8 million in the race, according to a review of campaign finance documents. First Principles PAC, based in Nashville, Tennessee, doesn’t disclose their donors but is connected to conservative judicial activist Leonard Leo, according to the news outlet NOTUS. Leo is credited with getting more conservative justices appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court and reshaping federal courts across the country. The exclusion of Democratic voters from the Republican primary voting also likely helped Burris win the race. Burris and outside political groups spent much of the campaign attacking Edwards, who has served as an elected Republican judge since 2008, for being a Democrat in disguise. Edwards married into a prominent Democratic family decades ago. She is the sister-in-law of former Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards and the wife of former Tangipahoa Sheriff Daniel Edwards, who served as an elected Democrat for 20 years before retiring and registering to vote as a Republican. Her father-in-law was also the Democratic sheriff of Tangipahoa. Edwards said repeatedly throughout the race that she was a true Republican and that it was “offensive” to assume she would secretly be a Democrat just because her husband’s family were prominent members of the party. Courtesy of Louisiana Illuminator
	St. Ambrose graduates walk the stage at commencement ceremony Local college students walked across the stage at Vibrant Arena to receive their degrees as St. Ambrose University hosted their spring commencement ceremony.
	Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy loses in Republican primary, does not advance to runoff Sen. Bill Cassidy is one of few remaining Republican senators who voted for President Trump's impeachment after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Trump endorsed his opponent, Rep. Julia Letlow.
	Louisiana senator who voted to convict Trump loses Republican primary Sen. Bill Cassidy is one of few remaining Republican senators who voted to convict President Trump after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Trump endorsed his opponent, Rep. Julia Letlow.
	Thousands attend protests in Selma and Montgomery for voting rights Corey Minor Smith of Canton, Ohio holds a “Black Voters Matter” sign while marching over the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. Faith leaders gathered in Selma Saturday for a prayer event as part of the “All Roads Lead To The South” protests, aimed at mobilizing voters amid Republican efforts to eliminate majority-minority districts. (Ralph Chapoco/Alabama Reflector)Thousands of people joined demonstrations in Selma and Montgomery on Saturday to protest redistricting by southern Republican state legislatures targeting Black Democratic members of Congress. An afternoon rally in Montgomery that drew over 5,000 people featured politicians, activists and civil rights dignitaries as of the All Roads Lead to the South campaign, aimed at organizing voters to offset the advantages Republicans may gain from redistricting. “Our democracy is on the line,” said Victor Coar, who traveled from Birmingham to Montgomery. “Our rights are on the line. They are trying to take it all away. They are suppressing our vote, trying to keep us quiet, trying to silence our vote.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. The events on Saturday deliberately invoked the Civil Rights Movement in cities that featured some of its most famous moments, and came just weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court targeted one of its major legacies. In Louisiana v. Callais, decided last month, the nation’s high court weakened Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which bans racial discrimination in voting and election laws, by saying plaintiffs challenging maps under Section 2 would have to prove intentional discrimination, a significantly higher standard than the prior one. The court’s decision led Republican-controlled legislatures across the South to introduce redistricting legislation targeting Black majority districts. On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Alabama to use a 2023 congressional map it had previously ruled racially discriminatory. Gov. Kay Ivey set special primary elections in four congressional districts for August, though plaintiffs in the state’s major redistricting case, known as Allen v. Milligan, have continued litigation. A federal court Friday set a hearing in the case for Friday. A woman raises a fist as protestors march on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector) Earlier on Saturday, faith leaders gathered at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma and offered prayers, criticisms of the Supreme Court and President Donald Trump and calls for voting rights protections for vulnerable communities. After an hour, 400 people then marched silently from the church to the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where civil rights protestors were attacked on March 7, 1965, an assault that eventually led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act. “I know how important moments like these are, and I am here because I know that one of us can go far but we cannot go far enough,” said Rev. Cece Jones-Davis, who traveled from Washington, D.C. to participate in the day’s events, in an interview after the march. “It is going to take all of us, and so I am just here to add my voice to the collective.” At the Montgomery rally, speakers spoke to several grievances aimed at the Trump administration and at the U.S. Supreme Court regarding voting rights, but also urged the crowd to have resolve during the current political climate. Bernice King, the daughter of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and CEO of the King Center, harkened to the past as a rallying cry for the present. “Today we return to the very grounds where my parents and freedom families stood, when Black voter registration was scarce, when discrimination was the norm, and when violence was the price for seeking dignity. Their sacrifice opened the door to the Voting Rights Act,” she said. Protestors step on a marker on Dexter Avenue in Montgomery, Alabama marking the extent of the crowds in the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery march during the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector) Now, she said, people are called once again to act. “Because the recent Supreme Court rulings demand our presence,” she said. “It was not only a legal decision, it is a moral disgrace and a shameless assault on Black political power.” Lawmakers from Alabama took the stage to urge the crowd to continue their efforts to mobilize the vote. “Sometimes I wonder what would I have done if I had been present and alive during the movement,” said Sen. Merika Coleman, D-Pleasant Grove. “Would I have marched? Would you have marched? Would I have participated in a boycott? Would you have done that? Would I be one of the lawyers who filed one of those lawsuits? Would I have been a freedom singer, singing and moaning for the movement like my grandfather? We are here to tell you, you don’t have to wonder anymore. This is our time, right now, and we are fired up and ready to go.” Then Alabama’s congressional delegation and their colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives took the stage to rally the audience and to meet the moment. Changing Alabama’s congressional maps will significantly threaten the re-election prospects of U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, D-Mobile, and could eventually put U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, at risk. “It is time to show up and show out, not just in one state capital, not just for one election but we need you to step up and show up for every one of our state legislators who are trying to get out the vote,” Sewell said. U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, said that the freedom that we enjoy also requires responsibility. Protestors enter the All Roads Lead to The South Rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector) “We also stand here with the understanding that the freedoms we inherited from our ancestors are not possessions that we hold, they are rights that we hold in trust,” he said to the crowd. “That we were given to be stewards of. A lot of people are drinking deeply from wells of freedom and liberty that they did not dig. They are eating from banquet tables prepared for them by their ancestors, sitting back, getting dumb, fat and ugly, and happy and comfortable. This is one of moments where we understand our blessings come with obligations.” Khadidah Stone, one of the Allen v. Milligan plaintiffs, criticized Ivey’s decision to schedule the special session during an interview at Saturday’s event in Montgomery. “I would really like those legislators to focus on the quality of life of Alabamians,” Stone said. “We have a lot of rural hospital closures, we have the highest maternal mortality rate in the country, 50,000 Alabamians just lost SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, and most of the recipients are the elderly and children.” Figures said after the rally that he was “inspired by what we see.” “It is an incredibly humbling experience to see thousands come out and, in essence, help defend my seat, and defend Congresswoman Terri Sewell’s seat, so we can’t help but be overwhelmed by gratefulness and humility by what we are seeing, and encouraged because we think this is going to carry over until November,” he said. Figures, however, said that he felt there were factual differences between the Callais case and the Milligan case, and expressed confidence that the Milligan plaintiffs could still win. “The dispute with our district goes all the way back to the 2020 census, and the original maps that the state Legislature redrew, and the three-judge panel, two of whom were appointed by Trump and one by (Ronald) Regan originally, they found that the state had engaged in intentional discrimination in how they drew those maps.” Several of those who attended the afternoon rally criticized attempts by the various legislatures to reconfigure their district maps. U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, D-Mobile (third from left, in Blue shirt) addresses a crowd attending the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector) “It is important for folks to understand what folks are getting taken away from them, and they are getting taken away their right to representation,” said former Sen. Doug Jones, D-Alabama, who is seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination to be governor, in an interview at the event in Montgomery. “We have come so far in the state of Alabama. We have 60 years of progress that has been thrown backwards by the Supreme Court and the Legislature just a few blocks from here.” Reginald Mason, who also traveled from Birmingham, said voting is what matters. “People who don’t actually vote are not informed, they don’t know about the struggle that our ancestors went through,” Mason said. “I never thought I would be standing here today fighting for what they have already fought for me.” Religious and faith leaders expressed many of the same concerns when they led congregants in prayers prior to the morning march across the Edmund Pettus bridge. “What I realize is that it is just our turn, and freedom is not fought for once, freedom has been fought for many times,” Jones-Davis said. “We are here to do our part.” Faith leaders in the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church In Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, which drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)A speaker addresses the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The service was part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans. The events drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors gather in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors gather in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march toward the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)A woman raises a fist as protestors march on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors march on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama as part of the All Roads Lead to the South rally on May 16, 2026. The two rallies, protests against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors attend the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors attend the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors attend the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors enter the All Roads Lead to The South Rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors attend the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors attend the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Protestors step on a marker on Dexter Avenue in Montgomery, Alabama marking the extent of the crowds in the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery march during the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, addresses a crowd attending the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. To the right is Dee Reed of Black Voters Matter. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, addresses a crowd attending the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. To the right is Dee Reed of Black Voters Matter. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)Montgomery Mayor Steven Reedaddresses a crowd attending the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector)U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, D-Mobile (third from left, in Blue shirt) addresses a crowd attending the All Roads Lead to the South rally in Montgomery, Alabama on May 16, 2026. The event, a protest against redistricting efforts by southern Republicans, drew over 5,000 people. (Andi Rice for Alabama Reflector) Courtesy of Alabama Reflector
	Clinton WWII hero Henry Langrehr honored with display of wartime artifacts The Rock Island Arsenal Museum unveiled a new glass case featuring personal items from Langrehr’s World War II service.
	Iowa farmers face uncertainty as fertilizer prices surge amid Iran war, fear looming farm crisis DES MOINES, Iowa – The ongoing war with Iran is driving up more than just the cost of oil. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have restricted fertilizer supplies that farmers desperately need. As a fourth-generation corn and soybean farmer, Steve Kuiper understands what it takes and what it costs to be a farmer. Managing his 4,000 acres, while also serving as the first vice president of the Iowa [...]
	Napoleon Solo holds off Iron Honor to win the Preakness It's the colt's first victory of the year. Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo's exit from the race left the field of 14 horses wide open to contest the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.
	The Monkey's Pawn: “Obsession,” “Is God Is,” “In the Grey,” and “Marty, Life Is Short” There are so many smart, promising ideas floating around in the comedic horror of Obsession that it almost doesn't matter that few of them feel properly explored, and that writer/director/editor Curry Barker doesn't seem to have entirely figured out either his principal characters or his film's overall tone.
	Even warmer (or hotter) Sunday and Monday Saturday turned very warm and humid after the pre-dawn storms. It'll be even hotter and more humid the next two days. Scattered showers and storms are possible Sunday, but we'll see a better chance of widespread showers and severe storms later Monday. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Master agreement struck between Arconic and United Steel Workers The three-week negotiation was extended for 24 hours and set to expire today. Both sides have now confirmed a 3-year master agreement has been struck.
	Rock Island Arsenal Museum unveils exhibit honoring World War II veteran and Clinton native The Rock Island Arsenal Museum unveiled an exhibit honoring World War II veteran and Clinton, Iowa native, Henry Langrehr.
	Federal permit delays pause construction at Knox County wind farm Around 300 workers expected to build a wind farm in rural Knox County for the next year. Now, they're removing work they've already done.
	Former Thomson prison employee found guilty of sexual acts with inmates The former FCI Thomson cook supervisor is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 14.
	RECALL: Ice cream sold in Iowa, Illinois, other states may contain metal fragments Check your freezers!
	A new Ebola outbreak has already killed 87 people Health officials are working to contain a new Ebola outbreak in the DRC of a virus strain with no known vaccine.
	North America poised for light display of aurora borealis The splashy nighttime phenomenon will be best observed on Saturday and Sunday nights
	Perfect weather + fast cars adds up to great night at Davenport Speedway Beautiful weather and fast race cars made for an enjoyable evening Friday at Davenport Speedway. The second points night of the 2026 season yielded only one repeat winner from the season opener. Cruz Birkhofer dominated The Outhouse/Storage to Go - IMCA Late Models. Birkhofer started seventh in the feature and would not see the lead [...]
	Arconic, union, agree to temporary extension while talks continue According to a Facebook post from USW Local 105, the contract between Arconic and the union is temporarily extended while bargaining continues Saturday, May 16. "We continue to bargain to reach a fair tentative agreement today," the post says. "Keep reporting to work as scheduled. Stay safe and stay tuned."
	Quad City Bank & Trust Riverfront Pops concert returns in August, to feature music from ‘The Who’ The music for this year’s Riverfront Pops concert has been announced.
	Niabi Zoo to offer extended summer hours on 4 dates with ‘Zoo Nights’ Last entry will be at 7 pm. on the extended hours nights, officials said.
	Officials: Arconic contract negotiations underway, contract set to expire Saturday Time is running out as union workers at Arconic are in negotiations over a new contract.
	Sonia Citron scores 30 as Mystics top Fever 104-102 in OT despite Caitlin Clark’s heroics Sonia Citron scored 30 points, Kiki Iriafen had 25 points and 13 rebounds, and the Washington Mystics edged the Indiana Fever 104-102 on Friday night after Caitlin Clark forced overtime with a dramatic 3-pointer and 17 points in the fourth quarter.
	Dog saved by Iowa State vet students and doctors surprises everyone at commencement A dog who was brought in with devastating injuries after being hit by a car on Christmas Eve made a surprise appearance at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine commencement ceremony to watch the students who helped save her life graduate.
	Davenport crews to re-stripe traffic lanes through mid-June A heads up to drivers in Davenport as public works crews will be working to re-stripe traffic lines.
	Timmy the humpback whale found dead off Danish coast A humpback whale found dead this week off a Danish island has been identified as the animal released two weeks ago in a spectacular and controversial rescue effort after repeatedly becoming stranded off Germany's Baltic Sea coast, Danish authorities said Saturday.
	John Cole’s Tennessee: Three biggest lies Courtesy of Tennessee Lookout
	Which states have the highest gas taxes? There's a lot of talk about suspending the federal gas tax. But how much are state gas taxes costing drivers?
	Alaska Legislature nears final approval of smaller city councils, budget training for school boards Sen. Robert Yundt, R-Wasilla, is seen Thursday, May 14, 2026, during a joint session of the Alaska Legislature. (James Brooks photo/Alaska Beacon)Alaska’s smallest towns and villages would be allowed to shrink their city councils under a bill that neared final passage Friday in the Alaska Legislature. Senate Bill 143 decreases the minimum city council size to three members for second-class cities with 1,000 or fewer residents. It also allows local governments to lengthen or shorten the terms of school board members. Currently, state law requires school board members to serve three-year terms. Another section, added by a floor amendment from Rep. Julie Coulombe, R-Anchorage, mandates the state Department of Education and Early Development provide budget and ethics training to all new school board members statewide. The state House approved SB 143 in a unanimous 40-0 vote on Friday, an act that sends the bill back to the Senate, which approved a prior version by a similarly unanimous 20-0 vote in April. The Senate is expected to approve the House’s changes to the bill and send it to Gov. Mike Dunleavy for final enactment or veto. Sen. Robert Yundt, R-Wasilla, wrote the original version of SB 143 after several years on the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly. That local government shifted its elections to November several years ago and lengthened the terms of its mayor and assembly members from three years to four so local elections would correspond with state and federal ones. Because state law requires three-year school board terms, he couldn’t do the same with school board elections, and as a result, off-year elections now see much lower turnout, he said Friday. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. If school board elections take place at the same time as other votes, he said the election results will be more representative of the will of the community. At the request of the Alaska Municipal League, legislators amended SB 143 earlier this year to allow three-person city councils in small second-class cities that have had trouble filling their rosters. Current state law requires five-member or seven-member councils. SB 143 would allow them to choose three, five or seven members. “Think about all the communities in Alaska that are 200, 300, 400 people — do they really need to have five or seven city council members?” Yundt asked. When the bill reached the House floor, Coulombe suggested amending it to require mandatory training for school board members. That suggestion followed several significant budget errors in Juneau, Ketchikan and other school districts. Coulombe’s amendment passed unanimously, 40-0. Another amendment, which would have given the state’s education commissioner authority over local school district budgets, failed to be adopted. Courtesy of Alaska Beacon
	For a Boise family of medical providers, Idaho criminal trans bathroom ban was the last straw Michael and Dr. Angie Devitt reflect on their decision to move from Idaho after years of the Legislature and the governor approving anti-LGBTQ+ bills. (Photo by Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun)The Devitts have seen the Idaho Legislature and the governor approve a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ bills in recent years. Michael and Dr. Angie Devitt, both medical professionals, watched their trans daughter, Eve, testify against a bill years ago that outlawed gender-affirming care for minors. But this year’s criminal transgender bathroom ban — described by advocates as the most extreme in the nation for extending to private businesses — was the couple’s last straw. So early this month, Michael Devitt notified patients that his practice, Focus Physical Therapy, would shut down at the end of August as his family prepared to move out of Idaho. “Obviously, this law is a disaster for families like ours,” he wrote in a letter. “We can no longer take a road trip across our beloved state, or even enjoy a family night out at a restaurant, or a movie, without running the risk of Eve being charged and sent to a prison merely for using the facilities.” Michael said he and his wife — who is the president of a large group of doctors, called the Idaho Academy of Family Physicians — draw the line at human dignity. He’s heard next year’s legislative session will be even worse. “We say ‘We’re in an abusive relationship with the state of Idaho’ — all people with transgender relatives, or all transgender people. And you always think, ‘Oh, they’ll stop hitting me.’ But they’re not gonna,” Michael said. In addition to the bathroom ban, the Republican supermajority-controlled Idaho Legislature and Gov. Brad Little approved a bill to require teachers and doctors to out transgender children to their parents, and to re-ban local and state government agencies from flying the LGBTQ+ pride flag. The city of Boise already found a workaround to the latest ban: Making the flagpoles themselves rainbow colored. Idaho’s anti-LGBTQ+ bills this year follow a trend Three became law: The trans bathroom ban, the bill requiring forced outing of youth, and the expanded flag ban. The bills follow years of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Idaho. In 2020, Idaho became the first state to ban transgender girls and women from competing on sports teams that align with their gender identity. In 2023, state lawmakers made it a felony for doctors to provide gender-affirming health care to transgender youth. In 2024, lawmakers expanded the ban to apply to taxpayer funds and government property, which forbids Medicaid from covering gender-affirming care. And for more than a decade, efforts to add anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people to state law have failed. “Over the last several years, legislators have gone from refusing to protect us to actively targeting us,” Nikson Mathews, a trans man who serves as chair of the Idaho Democratic Queer Caucus, said at a news conference in February. He was among nine protestors arrested for trespassing after a sit-in protest over anti-trans bills at the governor’s office early this month. Nampa Republican Rep. Bruce Skaug pushed for several of the bills — including this year’s bill to require teachers and doctors to out trans kids to their parents. He says he’s trying to protect traditional families. “I know that some people have sent me emails … saying ‘Why are you so genital focused?’ Well, I’m trying to protect families and children from those who are genuinely genital focused. And that would be the transgenders and those who would go after our children,” Skaug told the Sun. Sen. Melissa Wintrow, D-Boise, asks a question during a Senate Health and Welfare Committee hearing on March 10, 2025, at the Idaho Capitol Building in Boise. (Phot by Pat Sutphin / Idaho Capital Sun) Some see these bills as a distraction. “I think what we see nationally and here in Idaho is lots of money being used to manufacture outrage and a crisis around trans people, rather than focus on the issues that really matter to Idahoans,” ACLU of Idaho’s LGBTQ+ Rights Strategist Jenna Damron told the Sun. Boise Democratic Sen. Melissa Wintrow sees it similarly, arguing that the Republican party has chosen the LTBTQ+ community as a scapegoat while things aren’t going well. “While we’re worried about toilet seats and bathrooms, we’re going to pilfer the coffers over here and take the money that is the public wealth, and we’re going to give it all the way back. We’re going to give it back to rich corporations and wealthy folks,” she said. Why some call Idaho’s trans bathroom ban the nation’s most extreme House Bill 752 criminalizes transgender people using bathrooms that align with their gender identity, including in private businesses. The law takes effect July 1. A first offense carries a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison. A second offense within five years is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. Only three states — Utah, Florida and Kansas — have criminal bans on trans people using bathrooms that align with their gender identity, according to the Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group. Mathews, a trans man with a beard, told a House committee earlier this year that the bathroom bill would force him to use the women’s restroom. “Every single day when I’m out in public, I have to decide: Do I feel like going to jail today, or do I feel like being attacked,” Mathews told lawmakers. Nikson Mathews, chair of the Idaho Democratic Queer Caucus, joined activists and local elected officials to push back against anti-LGBTQ+ bills in the Idaho Legislature in a news conference on Feb. 16, 2026. (Photo by Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun) House Bill 752 criminalizes transgender people using bathrooms that align with their gender identity, including in private businesses. The law takes effect July 1. A first offense carries a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison. A second offense within five years is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. Only three states — Utah, Florida and Kansas — have criminal bans on trans people using bathrooms that align with their gender identity, according to the Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group. Mathews, a trans man with a beard, told a House committee earlier this year that the bathroom bill would force him to use the women’s restroom. “Every single day when I’m out in public, I have to decide: Do I feel like going to jail today, or do I feel like being attacked,” Mathews told lawmakers. Skaug said he supported the bill to protect women in women’s spaces. He said it has nothing to do with transgender people’s rights, citing conversations with the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Cornel Rasor, R-Sagle. ACLU of Idaho Legal Director Paul Carlos Southwick told the Sun that the ban is the most extreme in the nation mainly because it applies to places of public accommodations, which includes many private businesses, like grocery stores, restaurants and movie theaters. “Most places that people would go about in their ordinary life are going to be impacted by this bill,” he said. A 2025 study by the UCLA School of Law’s Williams Institute found “no evidence of increased harms to people who are not transgender when transgender people are allowed to use restrooms and other gendered facilities according to their identity.” But when trans people are refused access to facilities that align with their gender, the study found that trans people report verbal harassment and physical assault. Little signed the bill into law on Trans Day of Visibility. Bill to force teachers, doctors to out trans kids to parents takes effect July 1 House Bill 822 forces teachers and doctors to out transgender minors to their parents, or face lawsuits. The law takes effect July 1. Supporters argued the bill protects parental rights. But critics say it risks exposing some trans youth to abuse from parents. Major medical groups say gender-affirming care is medically necessary and safe. The American Medical Association last month reiterated that gender-affirming care is “medically necessary.” Some European nations are tightening standards for gender affirming-care. Idaho Rep. Bruce D. Skaug, R-Nampa, listens to proceedings on the House floor at the State Capitol building on Jan. 9, 2023. (Otto Kitsinger for Idaho Capital Sun) The bill was brought by Skaug. The lawmaker led efforts to criminalize gender-affirming care for all minors in Idaho and expand the ban to taxpayer funds, which prevented Medicaid from covering gender-affirming care and prompted an eastern Idaho clinic to halt offering gender-affirming care. Skaug told the Sun he got started on the bill years earlier, when he pushed for the bill to outlaw gender-affirming care for minors. He said he encountered parents whose children were secretly transitioned. Skaug dismissed concerns that his bill could risk trans kids’ safety. “I don’t know what that situation could possibly be. If Billy wants to be Sally, that’s a pretty serious mental health issue that any parent should know about, first and foremost,” he said. “So I don’t know of a situation where that has actually occurred, where there’s an abusive parent that is going to harm their child because they want to change their sex.” Boise quickly found another workaround to another ban on the LGBTQ+ pride flag After the governor signed a bill to fine cities for flying flags that aren’t on the Legislature’s pre-approved list, the city of Boise took down an LGBTQ+ pride flag that flew in front of its City Hall. Just blocks away from the state Capitol, Boise had flown a pride flag for more than a decade. The city council declared it an official flag of the city to workaround a flag ban law passed last year. A pride flag flies in front of Boise City Hall, just blocks from the Idaho Capitol. The flag flies below the city’s own banner and in April shared the flagpole with a flag honoring organ donation. The city also displays the U.S. flag, a POW/MIA flag and a state of Idaho flag. (Photo by Erika Bolstad/Stateline) But House Bill 561 this year made it clear that the pride flag can’t be flown. It banned city flags made official after 2023. Eagle Republican Rep. Ted Hill has said his bill is meant to target the city of Boise. But less than two weeks after the bill became law, Boise found more workarounds, KTVB reported: Adorning the flag pole with rainbow wrap, hanging a pride banner on the front of city hall, and decking the building with lights colored after the trans pride flag. Michael Devitt bets there’ll be a bill next year to regulate what color government flagpoles can be. What’s next for the Devitts The Devitts aren’t sure how soon they’ll move. Their daughter, Eve is now 20 years old, attending college in New York City. But what about when she comes to Boise to visit? Her dad worries she could be subjected to a physical exam. “How do you navigate a community like that when we literally are penalizing people for their presence more than we would penalize somebody for assault, more than we would penalize somebody for, oh say, manslaughter,” Michael Devitt said. “I mean, there are all kinds of things you can do in Idaho that will get you prison time that are less than the second offense for using the bathroom that aligns with your gender identity.” In a book about raising their trans daughter in Idaho, Michael and Dr. Angie Devitt chronicle Eve’s growth, and the couple’s frustration with the Legislature’s hyperfocus on “persecuting transgender people.” “I recently had someone tell me they were sick and tired of hearing about transgender people all of the time,” they wrote toward the end of their book, “Finding Eve,” which is written from Michael’s perspective. “I told them, speaking for every parent of a trans kid in Idaho, that I am sick of it too, and so is Angie. Every time we turn around our legislature or governor are talking about transgender people and how the state of Idaho is working to make their lives more difficult.” Dr. Angie Devitt said she’ll keep seeing patients, and may even continue to work in Idaho while she lives in another state. But part of what hurts so much as a physician testifying in the Legislature, she said, is seeing local experts, like doctors who took time out of their day to testify, be passed over as committees rush through bills. That happened at the House hearing on the bill to force teachers and doctors to out trans kids, where no doctors testified, but several people not from Idaho were allowed to speak. As she waits to be called to testify, Dr. Angie Devitt said she’s often juggling treating patients. “I tell my patient, ‘I’m doing two things right now, and if I get called, because I’m signed up, and you never know — if I get called, I’m going to take two it’s only two minutes, unless they ask questions, and I’m going to step out,’” she said. One bill that didn’t pass is coming back. It would repeal local LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination protections. Some anti-LGBTQ+ bills didn’t pass this year, like an attempt to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn its ruling that legalized gay marriage across the U.S. But that doesn’t mean they won’t return. The gay marriage repeal resolution is at least the second version introduced in the Legislature in recent years. A bill to repeal local policies that protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination is coming back, one lawmaker confirmed. House Bill 557 passed the House, but never got a committee hearing in the Senate. Skaug, who sponsored the bill, says he’s planning to carry the bill again next year. The bill was written by the Idaho Family Policy Center, a conservative Christian lobbying group. The bill would prevent local governments in Idaho from having or enforcing antidiscrimination policies that go beyond state law. The bill comes after more than a decade of failed efforts in the Legislature to add LGBTQ+ discrimination protections to state law. More than a third of Idahoans — over 720,000 people — live in Idaho communities with local nondiscrimination ordinances, the ACLU of Idaho estimates. Since 2011, 12 Idaho cities and towns passed nondiscrimination ordinances including Boise, Idaho Falls, Moscow, Lewiston, Meridian, Ketchum, Hailey, Bellevue, Driggs, Victor, Pocatello and Coeur d’Alene. In 2020, Ada County, home to Boise, passed its own. A separate trans bathroom ban — which would have let people sue to enforce it, instead of allowing prison sentences — never got a hearing in the Senate after passing the House. The bill, House Bill 607, was also written by the Idaho Family Policy Center. But Michael Devitt doesn’t think the bathroom ban that passed is going to work as intended. “They say, ‘Oh, we don’t want men in women’s bathrooms.’ Well, guess what? That’s what you’re going to get, because you’re going to get people who look very much like the gender they identify with,” he said. Idaho Capital Sun is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Idaho Capital Sun maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Christina Lords for questions: info@idahocapitalsun.com. Courtesy of Oregon Capital Chronicle
	Former Thomson prison employee convicted of sexually abusing inmates A Lanark man is found guilty of sexually abusing two inmates at Thomson prison.
	Aquatic Center, Muscatine, prepares to open for the season The City of Muscatine is preparing to welcome residents back to the Muscatine Aquatic Center at Weed Park. Parks. Recreation staff have completed the annual pool filling and are finalizing water‑quality balancing and pre‑season maintenance ahead of opening day on Saturday, May 23. The Aquatic Center will be open from noon–8 p.m., weather permitting. The [...]
	The ‘principled’ stand that almost cost taxpayers an $87 million return on their investment Workers lay fiber-optic cable at a broadband expansion site near Colton, South Dakota, in 2023. The 2026 Legislature came close to rejecting $87 million in federal broadband expansion funds. (Photo by Joshua Haiar/South Dakota Searchlight)During the legislative session, we’re often witness to lawmakers taking a stand on principle. This can take many forms. Some want to make one of the harshest abortion laws in the nation even tougher. Some want to beat back South Dakota’s urge to find more ways to gamble. Some want to clamp down on access to medical marijuana. Some want to solve the national debt by returning $87 million to the federal government. Wait, what? That’s what came dangerously close to happening in the final weeks of the legislative session. Deficit hawks in the state Senate voted to return $87 million in federal funds earmarked to help pay for the installation of high-speed broadband in areas of the state underserved by the internet. South Dakota looks to space for final stretch of high-speed internet access initiative This isn’t the first time this kind of foolishness has taken hold in the Capitol. During the pandemic, Gov. Kristi Noem told the Legislature that she considered giving back all the money that the federal government was piling on states in its effort to bolster the economy. Surely the federal government couldn’t afford this kind of largesse. Even a tea party darling like Noem knew in her heart of hearts that refusing federal funding didn’t mean that the money would be safely squirreled away in a federal savings account or used to whittle away at the national debt. She knew it would just get spent anyway in Nebraska or Iowa or, worse yet, North Dakota. This year, enough state senators were more concerned about the national debt than they were about their neighbors’ inability to get on the internet. They voted 22-12 on whether to accept the federal money, short of the two-thirds majority needed for legislation dealing with appropriations or an emergency clause. During the debate, Sen. Taffy Howard, a Rapid City Republican, said enough was enough. The state had already spent $84 million on broadband expansion with another $88 million from the feds and a like amount invested from private enterprise. “Government is encroaching on more and more areas of our economy,” Howard was quoted in a story from The Dakota Scout. “I mean, heaven help us, how did we survive before the federal government decided to do everything for us from cradle to grave?” It’s hard to see it as government intrusion when it partners with the state on a needed project. If Howard had her way, South Dakota taxpayers who dutifully paid their taxes to the federal government wouldn’t get to see a return on their investment. Sen. John Carley, a Piedmont Republican, called broadband old technology. He said satellite services like Starlink could easily provide internet service at a fraction of the cost. Carley may be right, but when the next conflict between superpowers comes, the first targets will be the opponents’ satellites. Who’s more likely to have internet service in the next big war: the guy with the buried cable or the one who relies on an orbiting machine in space that’s sporting a bull’s-eye? Let us know what you think... Sen. Ernie Otten, a Tea Republican, made an apt comparison when he called for the Senate to spend the money. He likened the coming of broadband internet to rural areas to the effort that brought electricity to farms. “It’s because there was a need, and everybody recognized there was a need,” Otten said. “And with the internet, it’s going to be the same thing.” Otten is right. Like the project that lit up farms across the nation, reliable, high-speed internet is a game-changer for rural South Dakota. No longer will our young people need to leave home to seek their fortunes and build their futures in big cities. Remote work on the internet, and the decent salaries that go with it, will keep young people in Kennebec, Freeman and Milbank. Supplying high-speed internet to rural areas in this state where it’s not currently available has what Sen. Carl Perry, an Aberdeen Republican, called “unintended benefits.” It will help attract new business and industry, bolster telehealth and help schools offer a more well-rounded education. Eventually cooler heads prevailed. The Senate reconsidered the bill and it garnered the two-thirds majority needed on a 24-10 vote. Perhaps the lesson in this episode is that state lawmakers who want to do something about the national deficit should run for Congress. In the meantime, they shouldn’t let their principles stand in the way of their constituents reaping the benefits of the federal government’s willingness to invest in all of us having access to high-speed internet. Courtesy of South Dakota Searchlight
	Clinton Public Library adjusts hours, transitions to online catalog system The Clinton Public Library will experience service changes and adjusted hours between Wednesday, May 20, and Monday, June 8, as the library transitions to a new online catalog system and installs new furniture, according to a news release. Wednesday, May 20 through Monday, June 8: New library cardholder impact People who sign up for a [...]
	Muscatine Aquatic Center set to open May 23 Muscatine is preparing to welcome the public back to the Muscatine Aquatic Center at Weed Park with opening day on Saturday, May 23.
	Elephants eat their crops. Farmers strike back. It's a war that's only getting worse In Sri Lanka, the islanders revere elephants. But for farmers, there's rising tension that's leading to more fatal encounters — for both humans and hungry pachyderms.
	Geneseo School Board takes harder look at solar WHAT WE KNOW: The Geneseo School Board heard a presentation on a 300-kilowatt solar project at the middle school at its March meeting.
	Moline High School History Club earns national recognition for third time The Moline High School History Club has been recognized as a National History Club of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year, according to a news release. Moline’s History Club is one of six chapters (out of 500) in the United States to receive this recognition from the National History Club. This is the third [...]
	QC Symphony Orchestra will play at new WIU performing arts center The Quad City Symphony Orchestra has announced a special run-out performance next spring at the newly constructed Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts on the campus of Western Illinois University (WIU) in Macomb. (A "run-out" performance means the orchestra will play away from its usual venues just for this particular concert.) The concert, scheduled for Monday, April 5, 2027, marks the [...]

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