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

Wednesday, August 19th, 2026
	High school football preview: Assumption Knights The Assumption Knights narrowly missed the playoffs last season, finishing 5-4, and are using that as motivation this year.
	ISP trooper injured in Stuart shooting is a Rock Island native, Alleman grad Trooper Chase Carruthers was hospitalized, and a woman was killed in the shooting on Tuesday. Carruthers has been with Iowa DPS since December 2025.
	Henry County Sheriff's Office to end use of Flock cameras Officials with the sheriff's office said there are eight Flock cameras around the county. Their partnership will end effective Monday, Aug. 31.
	Tyson Foods plant closure adds pressure to cattle industry as local farmer looks ahead The Davenport Chamber of Commerce said the number of cattle in the country has declined by around 10% over the last four years, contributing to plant closures.
	Local farmer looks ahead as Tyson Foods plant closure adds pressure to cattle industry The Davenport Chamber of Commerce said the number of cattle in the country has declined by around 10% over the last four years, contributing to plant closures.
	Iowa State Patrol trooper injured in Stuart shooting is a Rock Island native, Alleman grad Trooper Chase Carruthers was hospitalized, and a woman was killed in the shooting on Tuesday. Carruthers has been with Iowa DPS since December 2025.
	New Miss Scott County is breaking barriers The new Miss Scott County is breaking barriers at a young age. Kenia Wilson, an Augustana College student studying communication, won the title of Miss Quad Cities USA in 2023. Wilson now works as a mayoral intern for Rock Island and is an office assistant at Genesis Care. Wilson has been a dancer since she [...]
	Speed limit reduced on section of Avenue of the Cities The reduced speed limit is meant to make the area safer for drivers and pedestrians.
	Scott County Sheriff's Office sends 'thoughts and prayers' to injured state trooper The Scott County Sheriff's Office extends thoughts and prayers to Trooper Carruthers with the Iowa State Patrol after a shooting on Tuesday, according to a Facebook post. Carruthers was shot Tuesday afternoon in Stuart, Iowa, when he responded to gunfire. Responding officers found a deceased female when they arrived on the scene. Carruthers was one [...]
	Stuart man charged after woman killed, trooper shot on Tuesday Austin Reed, 46, is charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder of a peace officer.
	Iowa State trooper injured in shooting is a Rock Island native Officials said he was taken to the hospital and described his condition as “stable.”
	Eisenhower Elementary gets ready to welcome students back to school Eisenhower Elementary teacher Sandi Cooks is getting ready for the first day of school.
	Eisenhower Elementary students return Monday Eisenhower Elementary teacher Sandi Cooks prepares for the first day of school.
	Man charged with murder in Stuart, Iowa shooting that killed woman, injured trooper; victim remembered for her kindness Austin Reed faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted murder after a shooting in Stuart left Toni Elena-Ann Salazar dead and a state trooper injured.
	Businesses excited as Gateway Bridge project nears completion in Bettendorf The new pedestrian bridge will go over Middle Road, linking the TBK Bank Sports Complex area with the Iron Tee Golf corner.
	Roseville’s silent giant: Village home to Illinois’ largest tulip tree Standing taller than a four story building and wider than a garage, a silent giant in Warren County is officially making history.
	Wounded Iowa State Patrol trooper is Rock Island native, Alleman graduate The Iowa State Patrol trooper wounded in Adair County on Tuesday is a Rock Island native and 2020 Alleman High School graduate.
	Bill Bell Jazz and Heritage Festival returns to Rock Island The 12th year of the festival will bring free music, book fairs, kids activities, food, vendors and more back to the MLK Center Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21 and 22.
	The Rock Island Brewing Company is back The bar is on a reduced schedule while it works on a reorganization of operations.
	Quincy teacher arrested for alleged aggravated battery to disabled student Charis Loertscher, 44, was arrested for aggravated battery to a disabled person and domestic battery, the QPD reported.
	Roseville’s silent giant: city home to Illinois’ largest tulip tree Standing taller than a four story building and wider than a garage, a silent giant in Warren County is officially making history.
	California passes toughest wildfire rules in the U.S. for home landscaping California has adopted the toughest new rules in the country that require homeowners to manage the plants around their houses. Fire experts say it helps protect houses from burning, but public pushback has been strong.
	Muscatine Power and Water modernizing city power grid with federal support Muscatine Power and Water is upgrading its electrical grid, including moving power lines underground, with help from $1.3 million in federal funding.
	U.S. Associate Attorney General meets with Iowa officials on public safety New federal funding could help Iowa schools spot warning signs of violence and help prosecutors crack down on fraud.
	Speed limit reduced to 30 mph on Avenue of the Cities east of 41st Street The speed limit on Avenue of the Cities from 41st Street to the East Moline border has been reduced from 40 mph to 30 mph, according to the City of Moline, according to a news release. Moline City Council approved the change on Aug. 4. The lower speed limit is intended to make the corridor safer for drivers [...]
	Muscatine Power and Water highlights grid modernization, infrastructure projects in federal visit Muscatine Power and Water showcased their ongoing projects to federal and state officials Wednesday.
	Job fair at Vibrant Arena aims to help thousands of workers displaced by Tyson plant closure Area businesses are asked to join a Sept. 2 job fair at Vibrant Arena to hire over 2,500 workers impacted by the Tyson Joslin plant closure.
	QC Chamber: Tyson job impact ‘may play out over several months’ More than 2,500 former Tyson Foods employees are looking for work following the closure of the company’s Joslin plant, bringing a large number of workers into the Quad Cities labor market at once.
	12th annual Bill Bell Jazz and Heritage Festival coming to Rock Island this weekend You can enjoy free music, health education, kids activities and more at the MLK Center on Friday and Saturday.
	Central DeWitt board OKs $33.7 million General Obligation Bond for Nov. 3 ballot The Central DeWitt Community School District Board of Education has accepted 346 certified petition signatures from community members, exceeding the requirement under Iowa law, and unanimously approved a resolution officially placing the district's proposed $33.7 million General Obligation Bond referendum on the Nov. 3 ballot. With the petition requirement satisfied and the resolution approved, the [...]
	Princeton mobile home park residents face water shutoff Sept. 17 Dozens of Princeton residents could lose water service at Rivercrest Estates, the troubled mobile home park, if owner Mary Diercks fails to pay overdue bills and repair damaged infrastructure by Sept. 17. Princeton Police Chief Freddy Almanza notified park tenants of the pending shutoff earlier this week. Mayor Travis Volrath estimated that between 60 and 70 Princeton residents live at the park and stand to lose water service. “A lot of them have paid their rent. They’ve paid their water bill. It’s not fair to them,” Volrath said. But Dierck has let leaks and damaged infrastructure go unaddressed for over a year, while continuing to bill residents for lot rent that pays the property’s utilities. The park used one million gallons of water last month, and Diercks has not paid a water bill since April, City Clerk Kisa Tweed said. Diercks could not be reached for comment Wednesday afternoon. Don Smith, who has lived at the park since 1993, said he could not afford to move. “I was hoping to stay here the rest of my life. My home’s paid for,” he said. “I don’t want to lose my home. I love it.” Almanza also served the shutoff notice to Diercks after she failed to answer messages from City Hall, Tweed said. The city has placed a lien on the property for the unpaid water bill. Volrath did not disclose the sum of the unpaid water bill. He said the scale of damage to infrastructure at the park would make it nearly impossible for Diercks to make repairs by the Sept. 17 deadline. The damage has stressed the entire city water system. City officials have organized information session for residents next Tuesday evening, featuring representatives from Scott County Community Services, The Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Iowa Legal Aid. Those groups will provide residents with “every resource that they can to get them into a new living space,” Tweed said. The meeting will be closed to the public and press to provide residents with privacy and an opportunity to speak openly, Volrath said. Princeton could ask county building inspectors to mark trailers without water service as “uninhabitable,” forcing residents to vacate. “Where’s everybody going to go?” asked Crystal Hackett, a former resident of the park who raised concerns about its failed utilities last September. Her daughter still lives at the park, she said. “I’ve been out there a couple times,” Hackett said. “It’s shocking how bad it looks.” Last fall, Diercks owed over $50,000 in back taxes on the property, which is evaluated at just below $1 million. She settled the balance just days before the property would have transferred to the private investor who bought her taxes at the county tax sale. This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
	Galesburg men sentenced to federal prison on drug, gun charges Jordan Eskridge, 31, and Breana Crider, 28, both of Galesburg, were sentenced on Aug. 12, for conspiring to traffic in and trafficking in methamphetamine and marijuana, and Eskridge was also sentenced for possessing a firearm as a felon, a news release says. Eskridge was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by five years [...]
	Grow Clinton assists with regional workforce response to Tyson Foods, Joslin, closure The recent closure of the Tyson Foods plant in Joslin, Illinois, has resulted in about 2,500 workers losing their jobs, creating a significant impact on the regional workforce and surroundingcommunities, a news release from Grow Clinton says. Grow Clinton is working closely with the Eastern Iowa Workforce Board (EIWB) and regional partners to support individuals [...]
	Pritzker in talks with Tyson on repurposing Joslin facility after sudden closure On Wednesday at the Illinois State Fair, Gov. JB Pritzker commented on the closing of the Tyson Foods plant in Joslin.
	Woman killed, Iowa trooper injuried after shooting in Stuart, Iowa Austin Reed is charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder.
	Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds declares Aug. 19 as 'Solar Day' According to Reynolds, the solar industry employs nearly 1,000 people and supports 100 businesses in Iowa.
	Muscatine's power grid going through upgrade for more reliability For Muscatine Power and Water (MPW), reliable power is key. They are tasked with keeping homes comfortable and Muscatine's large industrial economy running. That's why they're focused on decreasing the risk of a widespan power outage, while also finding ways to make the grid easier and quicker to fix during an outage. "An outage costs [...]
	Quad Cities legislators discussing next steps after Tyson plant closure in Joslin Lawmakers said they hope to "spur plant repurposing" after the closure, but further details on this possibility weren't provided.
	Henry County, Illinois, Sheriff's Office to end partnership with Flock Safety Officials with the sheriff's office said there are eight Flock cameras around the county. Their partnership will end effective Monday, Aug. 31.
	Experts raise alarms over Census Bureau report Trump is touting on noncitizen voting A Trump-aligned think tank has ties to a highly unusual Census Bureau report that the president is using to renew false claims of widespread voting by non-U.S. citizens in 2020, NPR has learned.
	Whistleblower Arturo Béjar leads testimony in landmark trial against Meta The former Meta employee testified that the company culture prioritized user numbers over child safety measures.
	Illinois Tollway board votes unanimously to approve toll rate hike The Illinois Tollway Authority Board unanimously approved a significant toll rate increase, starting in January, in order to fund a $26.5 billion capital investment program.
	Bettendorf Middle School celebrates completion of Phase 1 renovation Bettendorf Middle School to unveil 12 new classrooms and a storm shelter tonight following completion of Phase 1 renovations.
	More charges filed against suspect in Muscatine shooting Three counts of attempted murder of a peace officer and more charges were filed against the suspect in the Muscatine shooting on Aug. 19.
	Central DeWitt voters will weigh $33.7M facilities plan in November DeWitt voters will consider the multimillion-dollar general obligation bond. If approved, the money will help bring all DeWitt students to the same campus.
	Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin headlines accessibility event at Putnam Museum Marlee Matlin speaks tonight at the Putnam Museum in Davenport for a special event celebrating accessibility and local inclusion.
	Henry County Sheriff's Office ends Flock partnership The Henry County Sheriff's Office is ending its partnership with Flock Safety. A post on the department’s Facebook page said it is ending its partnership with Flock Safety, effective August 31. “Since 2024, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office has operated eight Flock Safety cameras throughout Henry County,” the post said. “The cameras were funded entirely [...]
	The U.S. debt tops a record-shattering $40 trillion. Yes, with a T. The federal debt reached $40 trillion as the government adds red ink at a rapid rate. That's leading nervous investors to demand higher interest rates —pushing up borrowing costs for everyone else.
	Henry County, IL, Sheriff ending partnership with Flock The Henry County, Illinois, Sheriff’s Office announced on Wednesday that they will be ending their partnership with Flock Safety at the end of the month.
	Bipartisan group of Illinois lawmakers rallies to support workers after sudden Tyson plant closure Quad-Cities lawmakers are organizing state support for 2,500 displaced workers after the sudden closure of the Tyson Joslin plant.
	In Rock Island, environmental, consumer groups advocate for state data center regulations After a piece of legislation regulating data centers stalled in Illinois, nonprofit groups are touring the state to try to spread awareness and build up support for it.
	Former Fauci adviser Dr. David Morens pleads guilty to concealing COVID-related records Dr. David Morens, a former aide to Dr. Anthony Fauci, has pleaded guilty to violating federal law by trying to conceal emails about the origins of the COVID-1 pandemic.
	Sauk Valley Grown Farm Tours and Dinner back for second year Sauk Valley Grown Farm Tours and Dinner returns for its second year on Thursday, September 10 starting at 9 a.m. with dinner beginning at 5 p.m. at Whiteside Area Career Center, 1698 5th Avenue in Sterling. Capacity for the event is limited and seating is expected to fill quickly. Registration is a two-step process. Participants [...]
	Woman airlifted with injuries after e-bike crash in Henry County, Iowa A woman was airlifted out of Henry County, Iowa, on Sunday after an e-bike crash.
	Why interior designers are mixing antique pieces with modern design Why interior designers are mixing antique pieces with modern designHomeowners who invested in cold minimalism between 2010 and 2020 are discovering a costly truth: Sterile, monochromatic spaces have aged poorly, and the trend's collapse is leaving them saddled with rooms that feel dated and impersonal. As design preferences shift sharply toward warmth, personality, and quality craftsmanship, the real cost of chasing temporary trends becomes clear.The market's pivot reveals a deeper shift, one driven by durability, authenticity, and long-term value over mass-produced aesthetics. Understanding this change matters for anyone planning a renovation, Rug Source reports. Rug Source The New Face of MinimalismWhat’s known as high-end minimalist (or cold minimalist) hit peak popularity between 1990 and 2010. During this time, the idea of an empty white room with a single low-slung sofa and no artwork was indeed the aspiration.Homeowners loved the hidden storage, integrated appliances, and clutter-free surfaces so much that they also adopted the stark white design. Until the pandemic, at least. Having to actually live 24/7 in a high-end minimalist home felt less like a sanctuary and more cold and impersonal.Cold minimalism was already on the decline. But the pandemic set off a massive shift toward warmer, highly textured spaces. Many homeowners still enjoy the spatial order minimalism offers, but they are no longer fans of the monastic vibes.Modern minimalism is all about warm colors, natural textures, and spaces that feel comfortable instead of cold. To add depth and personality, many interior designers mix in antique pieces, helping soften the overall look while filling the space with character.The Buy Less, Buy Better PhilosophyThe “less is more” philosophy of minimalism has slowly transformed into a “less but better” approach during the last decade. The trends show people still appreciate the power of negative space in interior design and don’t wish to return to the busyness of the 1980s.Today’s consumers, especially homeowners, want fewer, higher-quality items that offer authenticity, solid craftsmanship, and long-term value over disposable decor. This is backed by a 2025 Houzz survey that found queries for vintage bathroom vanities, china cabinets, and natural materials like solid white oak and hand-troweled plaster have surged.The same survey found that 35% of homeowners who renovate don’t mind exceeding their initial budget to select higher-end, longer-lasting materials rather than lower-cost alternatives. All this goes to show that consumers want pieces with character, natural variation, and historic weight rather than mass-produced veneer.This preference for high quality and authenticity extends to decorative items as well. Durable, high-craftsmanship pieces are on the rise in high-earners’ preferences.They know that investing in a solid, artisan-made piece ensures the item anchors a room across multiple layout or aesthetic updates over 15 to 30 years.The Rise of Maximalism as a Counter-MovementFirst, maximalism doesn’t mean clutter or sensory overload. Within the current context, maximalism is an intentional rebellion against the sterile, homogenizing effects of late-2010s corporate minimalism.It’s a desire for personality, rich colors, quality, and history. A well-made vintage piece of furniture or decor lets you connect to its maker and former owners, but also tells a story about the current owner.Why is maximalism seen as a counter-movement?Interior designers see it as the natural response to decades of real estate staging and social media algorithms that forced a singular aesthetic onto viewers and customers: gray floors, white walls, and mass-market flat-pack furniture.Maximalism emerged as a statement of individuality, rejecting the idea that a home should look like an Airbnb listing or a staged condo waiting for resale. People learned they enjoy looking at the objects and pieces they love. This is why floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and gallery walls are so popular right now.Furthermore, maximalism aligns quite neatly with the circular economy, which is also experiencing a renewal. Unlike minimalism, which needs brand new, immaculate, perfectly matching items, maximalism thrives on thrifting, antique sourcing, and heirlooms. It’s the trend that lets someone mix a 1920s mahogany chest with a modern Scandinavian sofa without regrets.The Cyclical Nature of TrendsCold minimalism was a direct response to the 1980s love for postmodern excess, or the “less is bore” movement, combined with the hardships of the 2008 financial crisis.Neutral grays, clean lines, and uncluttered spaces offered a sense of order during uncertain times. After over a decade of ultra-minimal interiors, people began craving spaces with more warmth and personality. That gave rise to warm minimalism.Now, the pendulum is swinging once again. Instead of chasing flawless aesthetics, interior designers propose meaningful objects, mixing old with new, and creating a home that reflects the owner’s personality and tells a story.This story was produced by Rug Source and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Rock out at Rockin’ the River at Harold’s Landing Enjoy lively music along the riverfront at Rockin’ the River! According to a release from Moline Parks and Recreation, Rockin’ the River returns to Harold’s Landing as local bands deliver live performances with a beautiful riverfront setting on the following dates: Performances are 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Harold’s Landing, located at 2600 N. Shore Dr., Moline. [...]
	Death Notice: James Fletcher A funeral service for James William "Jim" Fletcher, 88, will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, at Our Savior Presbyterian Church, Argo. Burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park. Visitation will be Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 4-7 p.m. at the Runge Mortuary, Davenport. Mr. Fletcher died Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026. Online condolences may be made at www.rungemortuary.com. A full obituary will appear in the Aug. 26 edition of The NSP.
	32-year-old airlifted after crashing e-bike near Wayland, Iowa The crash happened around 7 p.m. on Monday in the 1100 block of Franklin Avenue.
	Discussions cease over proposed data center in Maquoketa In a Facebook post, the City said it and its development consultant, Gronen, mutually agreed to cease preliminary discussions on the proposed data center.
	New Dred Scott historical marker dedicated in Rock Island The former slave Dred Scott lived three years in the 1830s on today’s Arsenal Island, and a new historical marker honors his life and the way he changed American history.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: JASON ADRIAN, 53, 5'11", 185 punds, hazel eyes, black hair. Wanted by Rock Island County Sheriff's Office for theft. DUJUAN WATTS, 38, 6', 200 [...]
	19 local authors to gather at Moline library showcase The second annual Local Author Showcase will be Saturday, Aug. 22. You can meet local writers and learn about their processes, inspirations and work.
	In new filings, Kennedy Center says it won't try to put Trump's name on facade until Sept. 8 Lawyers for Rep. Joyce Beatty asked a judge to rule speedily on the complex's renovation and entrance tarp. The National Symphony Orchestra also announced its new season, away from the Kennedy Center.
	Moline appoints Barry Dykhuizen interim city administrator During Tuesday's meeting, Moline's City Council also formally accepted the resignation of former city administrator, Bob Vitas.
	Search warrant reveals motive behind Muscatine police shooting and son’s alleged involvement A search warrant reveals a suspect accused of shooting an officer was heading to Muscatine over a drug robbery involving his son.
	Pritzker signs disaster proclamation to aid Illinois communities in storm cleanup efforts The proclamation, which took immediate effect, is intended to mobilize resources for debris removal and repairs to public infrastructure.
	Vettes on the River, August 22 With more than 250 Corvettes from across the county expected to attend the eagerly awaited event, the city of LeClaire's 10th-annual Vettes on the River: Vettes Supporting Vets will be held at the LeClaire Levee on August 22, the day-long happening boasting raffle drawings, a color guard ceremony, an awards presentation, and much more.
	The states where people have lived in the same house the longest, and the ones where people are on the move The states where people have lived in the same house the longest, and the ones where people are on the moveIn the last few years, something remarkable has been happening in American neighborhoods. More people are staying put.In 2024, just 11.2% of U.S. households relocated, the lowest mobility rate since the Census Bureau began tracking the measure in 1948. That works out to about 14.8 million households changing addresses, which is a fraction of the movement seen even a decade ago.The trend isn’t universal across the country, however. In West Virginia and Pennsylvania, households spend well over a decade in the same home.In contrast, residents in states like Nevada, Colorado, and Texas have lived in their homes for less than five years. Spokeo has examined data from the Census Bureau, in conjunction with supporting data from Harvard and Axios, to reveal the states that see households with the longest and shortest tenures.There are many reasons one family may choose to leave a home while another may stay, but affordability remains a top factor. Nationwide, as of early 2025, home prices have climbed 60% since 2019, and existing home sales fell to their lowest level since 1995 in 2024, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard.Add in the fact that mortgage rates were hovering around 6.7% at the time of the Census data collection in 2024, and it’s clear to see that the math just isn’t working for many would-be sellers.Homeowners who refinanced at rock bottom pandemic-era rates also face a stark trade-off. They could choose to keep their current mortgage or sell and take on a new loan at a much higher rate. The decision to stay resulted in about 320,000 fewer moves in 2024, according to Harvard data. The result is a housing market where inventory is locked up, and the median length of homeownership is increasing.The 50-state ranking: Who stays, who goesTwo key data sources from the Census, Median Year Structure Built and Tenure by Year Householder, help identify the states with the longest housing tenures: Spokeo The map shows that the country is almost split in half. States across the Appalachian region and the Northeast all cluster at the top of stability rankings. West Virginia had the highest share of households that have lived in the same home since 2019, followed closely by Pennsylvania, Vermont, and New York, which were all above 67%.New Hampshire, Michigan, Maine, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Rhode Island help to round out the top 10. In these states, more than two-thirds of households have converted into long-time residents.Top 10 vs. bottom 10: The extremesThese are the 10 states where residents have remained since 2019:1: West Virginia (68.8%)2: Pennsylvania (68.1%)3 (tie): Vermont (67.9%)3 (tie): New York (67.9%)5: New Hampshire (67.6%)6: Michigan (67.4%)7: Maine (67.3%)8: New Jersey (66.9%)9: Connecticut (66.7%)10: Rhode Island (66.7%)These are the 10 states where households have turned over the most since 2019 or earlier.1: Oregon (59.4%)2: Oklahoma (58.9%)3: Washington (58.1%)4: Utah (57.6%)5 (tie): North Dakota (56.8%)5 (tie): Arizona (56.8%)7: Florida (56.7%)8: Texas (54.6%)9: Colorado (54.4%)10: Nevada (53.6%)While the percentages may not look far apart, the gap between the most and least stable states is certainly wide enough to reshape entire local economies. Roughly 15 percentage points separate the top from the bottom, which means a household in West Virginia is far more likely to have decades of equity built up compared to someone in Nevada.The ‘Why’: 3 regional storylinesThere are three distinct stories that help further explain the heatmap.The first is Appalachia and the rural Northeast. West Virginia currently holds some of the highest homeownership rates in the country, mainly driven by cheap housing and residents with a desire to stay. Older households are driving much of the trend, as mobility among homeowners aged between 65 and 79 fell 11% between 2019 and 2023, per the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, which outpaces the decline in younger households.The second storyline centers around the Sun Belt and Mountain West. States like Oklahoma and Colorado are still seeing anywhere from 13%-14% of residents moving in a given year, which is more than double some East Coast counterparts. The search for job growth, warmer weather, and a lower cost of living are all draws that drive migration even when movement in other parts of the country slows.There’s something to be said for the quiet stability of the Midwest. States like Illinois, Minnesota, and Ohio all land in the middle of the pack. They aren’t booming with new arrivals, but residents aren’t as entrenched as in the Appalachian region either. They are a steady equilibrium of population growth with tenured homeowners.Generational divide: Tenure by age cohortThe generational divide is a significant factor. Mobility among older homeowners has fallen, but young people aren’t moving in the other direction at the same rate.The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond detailed how the share of adults between 25 and 34 who are living with their parents climbed from 10% in 2000 to 15% in 2023. Even among renters and young homeowners, the affordability crisis means fewer are moving once they settle in.What this means for housing, labor, and policyA country where fewer people move is a nation where housing inventory is unpredictable and unstable. For buyers, that shapes what a house hunt actually looks like. A low-turnover state means thinner inventory and slower-moving competition, while a high-turnover state offers more listings but less predictability from one year to the next. Employers recruiting across state lines should factor in longer relocation timelines in the Northeast and Appalachia, where fewer homeowners are willing to sell. Policy response isn’t one-size-fits-all, though. In the Sun Belt and Mountain West, new home building is required to match quicker turnover, as opposed to the former region, where incentives are required to get existing homes back on the market. Treating the 11.2% relocation figure as a single national number misses the true point: The real housing story and real fixes will play out state by state.This story was produced by Spokeo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad Cities community learns, shares concerns about data centers Data centers are quickly becoming part of life in the Quad Cities. With all the activity, some nonprofits wanted residents to know more about them.
	Black Hawk College seeks student, staff input on naming new mascot Black Hawk College is asking students and staff to help name the new face of the college.
	Why Aitana's 'Superestrella' is the surprise Latin hit song of the summer There's a reason why the escapist hit from singer Aitana has swept most of the Spanish-language world.
	Help Black Hawk College name new mascot Black Hawk College (BHC) is getting a new mascot and it needs a name! The mascot costume and program are being launched this fall as part of the college’s 80th anniversary celebration. It will represent the Black Hawk College Braves, but the college’s Braves name and logos are not changing. The field of name suggestions [...]
	The baby names that shot up the charts in 2026, and the pop culture moments behind them The baby names that shot up the charts in 2026, and the pop culture moments behind themEvery May, the Social Security Administration drops one of the most entertaining website updates of all: the names that gained the most in popularity out of over 1,000 common names.The 2025 top baby names, unveiled in May 2026, were full of surprises. A name meaning “fire” jumped more than 1,100 spots, another received a spelling makeover, and a wave of unique names dominated the list.ThatsThem has put together this latest list of popular names in 2026 using data from the SSA’s 2026 name release, cross-referenced against birth announcements and news outlets, including The Bump and ABC News, to connect each popular name to the cultural movement likely behind it.Boys' Names on the RiseKasai — Up 1,108 Spots to No. 639Kasai means “fire” in both Japanese and Swahili, and it earned itself the place of 2025’s single biggest riser among boy names. Actress Skai Jackson named her son Kasai in January 2025, which was ideal timing to influence name trend data. The rising profile of dual entrepreneur and rapper Kasai Guthrie also likely added some fuel to the fire.Akari — Up 1,089 Spots to No. 542Akari is a name that means either “bright” or “light” in Japanese. It’s part of a broader wave of Japanese-inspired names that are climbing the U.S. charts. As anime viewership in the country continues to increase, it is possible that the naming trend is influenced by continued interest in Japanese culture. Crunchyroll, an anime streaming service, alone reported millions of increased subscribers in 2025, demonstrating how the art form is sweeping the nation.Eziah — Up 789 Spots to No. 610Eziah is a modern name with a twist on the classic biblical name choices of Isaiah or Ezra. It is also benefiting from the same fashionable long “i” sound that gave fuel to Kasai’s rise, making it a part of a broader 2025 reappearance of modern-styled Hebrew names.Jasai — Up 775 Spots to No. 439Jasai shares Hebrew roots, meaning “to save,” with other names like Joshua. Its real momentum, however, likely came from proximity. Sound-alike names often ride closely behind each other in the popularity rankings, and Jasai sounds quite similar to first-place holder Kasai.Neithan — Up 656 Spots to No. 723Finally, for the boys, Neithan is a stylized spin on Nathan that has taken the nation by storm. Neithan is especially popular among Spanish-speaking parents, as it is part of a broader trend towards the “ei” vowel cluster that is seen in other names climbing the list.Girls' Names on the RiseKlarity — Up 1,396 Spots to No. 791, the Year's Biggest RiserFor the girls, rapper Kash Doll named her daughter Klarity Doll in June 2024, which sparked a massive rise in popularity for the name. She also released a single called “Klarity” the same year, which helped cement this name as one that was impossible to miss going into 2025 and 2026.Rynlee — Up 1,222 Spots to No. 755Rynlee is a unique name that’s part of an ongoing wave of surname-style names, alongside Everlee and Karsyn, that have been increasing in popularity. Texas, Oklahoma, and the South are where name trend data shows this one gaining the most traction.Ailanny — Up 963 Spots to No. 932Ailanny is just one of several spellings of Ailany, which was the single fastest-rising girls’ name from 2024. It’s no wonder it earns a spot on the 2025 rankings. It also rides the same lyrical “-lani” wave that has steadily been building ever since “Moana” debuted in 2016.Naylani — Up 940 Spots to No. 897Naylani joins both Kailani (ranked 253 in 2025) and Aylani (ranked 293 in 2025) in the Hawaiian-inspired name category. It’s been steadily climbing for years and isn’t likely to slow anytime soon.Madisson — Up 863 Spots to No. 319Finally, Madisson has a unique double S spin on Madison, which was a name that defined the 2000s, ranking in the top 10 from 2000 to 2014. Madisson follows the same stylized-respelling that helped bolster Klarity. It also serves as proof that even the old favorites can appear back on the list in reimagined ways.Choose the best name for your childNames like Liam and Olivia may hold the top spot this year because they are classics, but it’s fast movers like these that tell a more nuanced story.There’s no shortage of unique names to be had. Next May, when the Social Security Administration releases its 2026 data, you should expect to see a fresh batch of risers based on the cultural movements happening right now.This story was produced by ThatsThem and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Rock Island man who took part in robbery sentenced to 10 years in prison A Rock Island man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his part in a conspriacy to rob a man at a Moline hotel in October 2025.
	Enjoy Art in the Park Sculpture Walk in Rock Falls Delight in a day of creativity and entertainment at the Art in the Park Sculpture Walk & Outdoor Art Gallery on Saturday, August 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RB&W District Park, 201 E. 2nd Street in Rock Falls. The annual event showcases the many forms of art found throughout the park and [...]
	Man facing terrorism charges after threatening local police department, county attorney A Northwest Iowa man is facing terrorism charges after he allegedly threatened to bomb the local police department, and threatened the life of a county official.
	Iowa becomes first state approved for plan to keep kids in their homes Iowa approved for new federal program to keep children out of foster care.
	Mineral vs. chemical sunscreen: Which is better for sensitive skin? Mineral vs. chemical sunscreen: Which is better for sensitive skin?Mineral sunscreen or chemical sunscreen? It’s a choice consumers often face when getting ready to enjoy some time in the sun. But which one is better for people with sensitive skin? Below, Doctronic shares what you need to know to make the right sunscreen choice for you.Key takeawaysMineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to physically deflect UV rays; chemical sunscreens use organic compounds that absorb UV energy and convert it to heat.For sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin, mineral formulas are generally the better starting point, because they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.The white cast associated with mineral sunscreens has improved significantly with micronized and tinted formulas, though some residue remains on deeper skin tones.Chemical sunscreens spread more easily, absorb fully, and tend to perform better under makeup; they are appropriate for sensitive skin as long as specific irritating ingredients like oxybenzone and fragrances are avoided.Neither type is inherently superior; the best choice depends on your skin's specific sensitivities, how and when you apply sunscreen, and how well you tolerate the texture.How Mineral Sunscreen WorksMineral sunscreens contain active ingredients that sit on the skin's surface and physically scatter and reflect UV radiation before it can penetrate. The two approved mineral UV filters are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Both protect against UVB, the primary cause of sunburn. Zinc oxide offers broad-spectrum coverage that extends into UVA, which penetrates more deeply and contributes to skin aging and skin cancer risk.Because mineral filters form a physical barrier on the surface rather than being absorbed, they begin working as soon as they are applied. There is no waiting period before going outside, which is a practical advantage over most chemical formulas.Mineral sunscreens are photostable, meaning they do not degrade significantly with UV exposure, and they do not generate heat as part of their mechanism. For people with heat-sensitive skin conditions like rosacea, this can make a meaningful difference in comfort.How Chemical Sunscreen WorksChemical sunscreens use carbon-based compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert the energy to heat, which is then released from the skin. Common chemical UV filters include avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone. A single product typically combines several filters to achieve broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage, since individual chemical filters protect against different parts of the UV spectrum.Chemical filters are absorbed into the upper layers of the skin. Chemical sunscreen ingredients like avobenzone and octisalate have been tested as safe and effective; while absorption into the bloodstream has been detected in studies, no regulatory body has concluded that chemical sunscreens pose a health risk. The current consensus among dermatologists is that the risks of sun exposure exceed any theoretical concerns about absorption.Chemical sunscreens typically require application 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure to allow the filters to bind with the skin and become effective.Why Sensitive Skin Responds DifferentlySensitive skin has a compromised or reactive skin barrier that makes it more likely to respond to topical ingredients with irritation, redness, burning, or contact dermatitis. Several characteristics of chemical sunscreens make them more likely to trigger these responses in reactive skin.Oxybenzone is the chemical UV filter most commonly associated with contact allergy and photoallergic reactions. It is present in many broad-spectrum chemical sunscreens and should be avoided by people with known sensitivity.Fragrances, preservatives, and emulsifiers in chemical formulas are additional common irritants. These additives appear in mineral sunscreens as well, but the base formulations of mineral products are more frequently fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin.The heat release mechanism of chemical sunscreens is a consideration for people with rosacea or chronic facial flushing. The warming sensation produced when UV energy is converted to heat can trigger or worsen flushing in rosacea-prone individuals.Mineral sunscreens, particularly formulas designed for reactive skin, tend to use simpler ingredient lists, avoid fragrance, and rely on ingredients with a longer safety record for sensitive applications, including in products designed for infants and people with eczema.The White Cast ProblemThe most common complaint about mineral sunscreens is the white or chalky cast left on the skin from zinc oxide and titanium dioxide particles. This is particularly pronounced on medium-to-deep skin tones, where the residue can appear gray or ashy.Formulators have addressed this through two approaches. Micronized particles (where the mineral is ground into very fine particles) reduce the white cast substantially. Tinted mineral sunscreens blend iron oxides into the formula to neutralize the white residue and provide even, sheer coverage. Both options have improved significantly, though some residue typically remains.For people with very deep skin tones, the white cast from mineral sunscreens can be difficult to mitigate even with micronized or tinted formulas, and a chemical sunscreen with carefully screened ingredients may be a more practical daily option.Texture, Application, and WearMineral sunscreens are typically thicker and more difficult to blend than chemical formulas. They can pill or sit on top of skin when applied over moisturizer, and they may feel heavier or more occlusive under makeup. This is a real practical limitation for daily wear, particularly on the face.Chemical sunscreens absorb fully, leave no residue, and tend to feel lighter on the skin. They layer well under makeup and over moisturizer without pilling. For people who find mineral formulas difficult to wear consistently, the best sunscreen is the one that gets applied every day, and consistent application matters far more than which type is used.What the Evidence Says About SPF and CoverageBoth mineral and chemical sunscreens are effective at preventing sunburn and reducing skin cancer risk when used correctly. Neither type is inherently more protective; what matters is the SPF level, whether the product is broad-spectrum (covering both UVA and UVB), and how thoroughly and consistently it is applied. Sunscreen application and SPF standards call for SPF 30 or higher for daily use and SPF 50 for extended outdoor exposure.Both types require reapplication every two hours when outdoors and after swimming or sweating. The reapplication requirement is the same regardless of formula type.Frequently Asked QuestionsIs mineral sunscreen really better for sensitive skin?For most people with reactive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-adjacent skin, mineral sunscreen is a better starting point because its active ingredients have a lower sensitization rate and its formulas tend to avoid common irritants. However, mineral is not universally better; a fragrance-free, oxybenzone-free chemical sunscreen can be equally well tolerated. If a mineral formula is too thick or leaves an unacceptable white cast, a carefully chosen chemical formula is a valid alternative.What ingredients should I avoid in sunscreen if I have sensitive skin?The key ingredients to avoid are oxybenzone (the most common contact allergen in sunscreens), fragrance, and chemical preservatives such as methylisothiazolinone. Alcohol-heavy formulas can also be drying and irritating. Checking the inactive ingredients list, not just the active UV filters, is important for sensitive skin.Can I use chemical sunscreen on my face if I have rosacea?Some people with rosacea tolerate chemical sunscreens well; others find that the heat-release mechanism triggers flushing. Mineral sunscreens are generally recommended as the first choice for rosacea-prone skin because they do not generate heat on the skin surface. A tinted mineral formula with iron oxides also provides some color-correcting benefit that can reduce the visible redness of rosacea.Does SPF work differently for mineral vs. chemical sunscreens?No. SPF measures the degree of UVB protection and is standardized across formula types. A mineral SPF 50 and a chemical SPF 50 offer the same level of UVB protection. The difference lies in the mechanism (reflection vs. absorption) and the breadth of UVA coverage; zinc oxide provides broader UVA protection than most single-chemical filters, which is why many chemical formulas combine multiple filters to achieve broad-spectrum coverage.How do I know if I'm reacting to the mineral or chemical component of a sunscreen?Reactions to sunscreen can come from the active UV filters or from the inactive ingredients (preservatives, emulsifiers, fragrance). If you react to multiple sunscreens across both mineral and chemical types, the reaction may be to a shared inactive ingredient. Patch testing with a dermatologist is the most reliable way to identify the specific ingredient responsible.The Bottom LineMineral sunscreens, with their physical barrier mechanism and simpler ingredient profiles, are generally the better starting point for sensitive skin. They avoid the chemical UV filters most associated with contact allergy, generate no heat on application, and are available in formulas designed specifically for reactive skin. Chemical sunscreens remain appropriate for sensitive skin when oxybenzone and fragrance are absent, and their lighter texture makes daily compliance easier for many people. SPF level, broad-spectrum coverage, and consistent reapplication are the factors that matter most for protection, and both formula types deliver when used correctly.This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Community Health Care, Whiteside County Health Department awarded state construction grants The Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced $50 million in grant funding has been awarded to 21 grantees through the Community Health Center Construction Grant Program. This funding comes from the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which supports constructing, expanding and improving community healthcare facilities across Illinois. In [...]
	Iowa inspectors revisit, cite dozens of restaurants for severe food-safety, mice activity State and local inspectors cite Iowa restaurants for hundreds of health violations, forcing at least two locations to temporarily close.
	Man sentenced in Scott County child sex abuse materials case A Scott County registered sex offender who was accused of paying a 15-year-old girl to send him photos has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.
	The forward-deployed engineer model: What's working so far The forward-deployed engineer model: What's working so farA year into the forward-deployed engineer model, Superhuman, Infor and Leaping AI agree on the upside: Deployments that once took months now take weeks. They are also learning what it takes to sustain.Thomas Baucom’s calendar perpetually looks like “a bad game of Tetris.” Working as aforward-deployed engineer (FDE) at productivity platform Superhuman, he’s often on back-to-back calls talking to customers across industries, hearing out their problems and requests. Sometimes he’s jumping on a plane to be by their side.Previously a customer success manager, he stepped into his new role two months ago. Baucom said the job is similar in that it’s also focused on customer insights. As a customer success manager, he was also talking all day, every day with customers about how they wanted to use the products. The key difference is now he can spring into action on what he hears.“In that role before, I had to say, ‘well, we're working on that,’ or ‘we can put that in the backlog, but it doesn't work like that today,’” he told The Infinite Loop by Nebius. “The big difference in the FDE role is I can now say, ‘I can fix that.’ I have the ability to work in our codebase, go on-site with you and build those things out. I can go much, much deeper.”That more direct line from insight to action is why companies of all stages and sizes are embracing the FDE model, which revolves around embedding directly into customer organizations to help them adopt the product, solve specific problems and scale usage.Job listings for FDE roles increased by more than 729% between April 2025 and April 2026, according to data from Indeed shared with Business Insider. In June, Amazon announced a $1 billion investment in a new FDE unit, and just two days later, Microsoft announced its own $2.5 billion FDE initiative. Anthropic, OpenAI and Salesforce have also all announced similar initiatives earlier in 2026.Now that some adopters are well into their FDE journey, they’re starting to see the outcomes — in particular, rapid, iterative speed to deployment. They’re also learning some lessons around how to leverage the FDEs effectively.Need for speedSuperhuman started embracing the FDE model about four months ago, and Baucom said he’s already shipped around 20 customer projects. He’s seen firsthand that speed is the most undeniable benefit, and others agree.“What was taking months is taking weeks,” said Mike Park, CIO at Infor, which has done a big push into FDE engineering starting about a year ago.Kevin Wu, co-founder and CEO at Leaping AI, a voice AI startup that hired its first FDE last year, also cited speed as the biggest benefit and said this is particularly true when they go on-site.“Flying to the customer actually helps because you get everybody in one building, and then you just finalize the last few steps on day one,” he said. On day two, they train the customer on how to use it and monitor the performance to see what can be immediately improved. After that, they gather feedback, integrate it, and have weekly virtual check-ins from there on out.Beyond speed, FDE teams have noticed that customers appreciate the hands-on approach.For one example, an Infor FDE worked with a customer in industrial manufacturing to build a system that flags itself when it needs attention, so the customer no longer has to constantly monitor the dashboards. The challenge with a use case like this, Park explained, is that companies have different levels of comfort trusting AI. The FDE worked with them directly to understand their tolerance and tailor the solution to their exact stage of AI adoption, and help them feel more comfortable along the way, he said.For a recent project, Baucom transformed a multinational publisher’s 400-page style guide into a series of custom agents, with one for each of its many sub-brands. As a writer works, the agent reads the text and flags any deviations from the relevant style guide. It underlines errors for the writer to review, shows the correction and points to the corresponding entry in the style guide. The customer got a fast turnaround and a bespoke solution built around keeping its brand consistent.“We're going to cater this solution to you. We're going to make it easy. We're still going to have the human element there, and that seems to really resonate at least with folks I get on the phone with,” Baucom said.The part that isn't automatedOverall, the main lesson Baucom has learned so far about being an FDE is that AI is still intimidating for a lot of folks, which makes a strong human touch more valuable, not less.“People still want to have a Thomas they can Slack,” he said.While FDE is typically thought of as a customer-facing role, companies have also learned that the benefits of the model can be leveraged internally. Baucom said he’s built prototypes for tools for his teammates to be able to run better demos and agents to help prep for calls, for example.For Park, another lesson from Infor’s FDE work so far is how crucial it is to stay up to speed. As models progress, teams need to keep evolving and iterating quickly, he said. For this reason, he believes the fast pace of AI itself is a driver for the FDE model.“With this ability to iterate faster, I think [the FDE model] allows you to take advantage of the technology even faster than you would have before because of this concept,” he said. “And I think that's where it’s very powerful.”This story was produced by The Infinite Loop by Nebius and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	This high-speed star is whipping around the black hole in the middle of our galaxy Researchers have identified a speed demon at the heart of the Milky Way. This fast-moving star may yield insights into the black hole parked at the center of our galaxy.
	Group O, Lantech, will present Lantech Packaging Tour to QC businesses Group O and Lantech will bring packaging automation directly to businesses across the Quad Cities region during the upcoming Lantech Packaging Tour, a week-long event designed to showcase automation solutions that can help organizations improve efficiency, productivity, and operational consistency, a news release says. Taking place during the week of August 24, the Lantech demonstration [...]
	Real-world study of Oregon's nonmedical psilocybin program shows promise Oregon was the first state to establish a legalized and regulated psilocybin industry. Since then, thousands have tried magic mushrooms. Here is the latest data from the state's real life experiment.
	A real-world study of Oregon's nonmedical psilocybin program shows promise Oregon was the first state to establish a legalized and regulated psilocybin industry. Since then, thousands have tried magic mushrooms. Here is the latest data from the state's real-life experiment.
	Do I need ADHD medication? Understanding the signs and options Do I need ADHD medication? Understanding the signs and optionsAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder marked by patterns of inattention and, in some cases, hyperactivity or impulsivity that interfere with the ability to function or develop. While it’s not curable, ADHD is very treatable. Typical ADHD treatment plans include therapy, behavioral modifications, and, for some people, stimulant or non-stimulant ADHD medication.ADHD treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and it’s important to note that not everyone will need stimulant drugs to cope with a diagnosis. There are many alternatives to ADHD medication, but in some cases, the right medication for your ADHD diagnosis can be a critical component of a comprehensive treatment plan.The decision to take any drug is highly personal — a doctor or qualified mental health professional can help you determine if prescribed medication might be beneficial in managing symptoms. If you’re wondering if you should take ADHD medication, Talkspace shares what to know and explores alternative treatment options.Signs You Need ADHD MedicationAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder manifests in multiple ways, which means not all ADHD meds or treatments will work the same for every person. While some people find satisfactory efficacy in alternative treatments, others find that different medication options can significantly improve daily functioning and quality of life. If ADHD significantly impairs your academic or professional life or personal relationships, ask your doctor if it’s time to consider stimulant or non-stimulant medication.The following key signs indicate that medication may be beneficial in treating your ADHD.Difficulty concentrating on tasksOne of the most common signs that medication may help treat ADHD is if your condition makes concentrating on tasks difficult. Research shows that between 20% and 30% of people with ADHD have trouble with concentration and focus.If it’s challenging to stay focused on activities, especially those that require persistent mental effort — like reading, working, or carrying on conversations — taking ADHD medication might help.Impulsivity and risky behaviorAnother indication you might benefit from medication is that you exhibit impulsivity or tend to engage in risky activities without considering the consequences. ADHD impulsiveness can manifest as:Interrupting othersMaking hasty decisionsFinding it difficult to wait for your turnBlurting out answers before questions are fully askedHaving angry outburstsEngaging in risky or reckless behaviorStimulant or non-stimulant medication can help you make better decisions and often results in more stable behavior.Hyperactivity and restlessnessNot everybody with ADHD experiences constant hyperactivity and restlessness, but when these symptoms are present, common ADHD medications can be a viable option. If you find it almost impossible to sit still, or you feel the need to move constantly, or feel like you can’t relax, ADHD medication can instill calm and stillness, which can be incredibly important in settings like the classroom or workplace.Problems with time management and organizationTime management and organizational issues are hallmark symptoms of ADHD. Planning, prioritizing tasks, or managing your time effectively and efficiently can take a lot of work and be daunting. These tendencies commonly associated with ADHD time blindness can quickly lead to missed deadlines, unfinished projects, and overall chaos in your daily life. ADHD medicine might help improve executive functioning skills so you can stay more organized, on track, and ultimately, successful.Emotional dysregulationEmotional dysregulation can cause intense emotions, difficulty controlling your temper, or feeling like you’re overwhelmed by stress. It’s a common symptom of ADHD, and medication can help stabilize moods so you can achieve improved emotional control and reach a more balanced state. Alternatives to ADHD Medication to ConsiderThere are several reasons people seek alternatives to ADHD medication, including an aversion to the common side effects of ADHD stimulant medications. While it can be an effective treatment, it’s not the only option available. Many people successfully manage ADHD symptoms with non-pharmaceutical approaches. Behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, support groups, and natural remedies for ADHD are all viable options that can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.Understanding your alternatives helps you make a more informed decision about how to treat ADHD as effectively as possible.Behavioral therapyBehavioral therapy is a well-researched and effective alternative to medication for managing ADHD symptoms. Studies show that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can significantly improve ADHD symptoms. It’s worth noting that research also finds that effectiveness can be enhanced when therapy is combined with medication.Behavioral therapy helps improve your ability to focus, reduce impulsive behaviors, and enhance social skills so you’re more confident in social settings. It teaches you how to manage behavior, improve organization, and build coping skills for ADHD. One of the reasons this type of therapy can be so effective is that it can be tailored to your specific needs and used to enhance or support other treatment options.Lifestyle changesImplementing some simple lifestyle changes can be incredibly beneficial in managing symptoms of ADHD.Working out: Regular physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of ADHD, such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Exercise can also improve concentration and enhance executive functioning, making it easier to manage daily tasks.Eating a balanced diet: A healthy diet that limits sugar and increases omega-3 fatty acids (like fish and nuts) will support brain health and can improve mood regulation.Establishing healthy sleep habits: Sleep disorders are common in people with ADHD. Creating and maintaining a consistent sleep routine, including reducing your screen time before bed, is one more holistic way to manage ADHD symptoms.Support groupsSupport is essential for people living with ADHD. Support groups offer a sense of community and understanding. They can be a safe place to share experiences and struggles. They’re also an excellent resource for tips and strategies for managing ADHD symptoms. You can find emotional support, reduce any feelings of isolation, and get advice from those who understand the challenges of ADHD.Depending on your needs and comfort levels, you can attend an in-person support group or find one online.Natural remediesMany people find relief from ADHD symptoms using natural remedies. For example, some research suggests that using nutritional dietary supplements like the following can be helpful.ZincIronMagnesiumVitamin BOmega-3 fatty acidsResearch shows that mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga or deep breathing exercises help improve emotion regulation and control, something you might struggle with if you have ADHD.Natural remedies aren’t as rigorously studied as other forms of ADHD treatment, but many people report significant benefits. It’s important to discuss any treatment option you’re considering with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific needs and situation.Is ADHD Medication Worth It?Deciding whether ADHD medication is worth it depends on individual circumstances and needs. For many, medication can be a game-changer, significantly improving attention, focus, and impulse control, thus enhancing daily functioning and quality of life. The most effective and sustainable treatment for ADHD often involves a combination of medication and therapy, addressing both the symptoms and underlying behaviors.While the potential side effects of stimulant medications are a concern, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks for those with moderate to severe symptoms. There are also effective non-stimulant medications that are worth it. Ultimately, consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine if ADHD medication is the right choice for managing your specific symptoms.Get a Professional Opinion with an Online PsychiatristIf you’re struggling with managing symptoms of untreated ADHD and have been recently wondering if you should take ADHD medication, talk to your doctor or a mental healthcare professional. They can offer a comprehensive evaluation and recommend a treatment plan that’s best suited for your specific symptoms and needs, whether that’s medication, therapy, alternative treatment options, lifestyle changes, or a combined approach. If you are considering medication, a professional can help you determine if stimulant or non-stimulant ADHD medications are better for you.This story was produced by Talkspace and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to write an accounts payable policy your team will use How to write an accounts payable policy your team will useIf you're a controller inheriting a policy from the last finance lead, the cost of leaving it untouched shows up fast. Invoices might get approved in chat tools. Vendors may send bills to whoever they have an email address for. The document may still sit in a shared drive, but it no longer reflects how the team works after enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems change and workflows shift.An accounts payable (AP) policy works if it matches how AP actually runs. When it doesn't, people stop following it, and the controller becomes the person catching exceptions that the document never anticipated. This guide from Brex covers three key considerations:What belongs in an AP policyHow to write a policy your team actually usesWhat separates an impactful policy from one that only satisfies an auditorThe principles here hold whether you’re backed by a full AP team or you’re flying solo, and whether you’re on a legacy ERP or an AP automation tool. If you’ve inherited a policy nobody reads, or if you’re writing one from scratch, this information will help you build an AP policy that your accounts payable process can actually run on.Key takeawaysAn AP policy works well if it matches how your team actually processes invoices, approves payments, and uses your tools. A policy that lives only on paper gets ignored, with controllers forced to manually catch exceptions themselves.An AP policy should be updated over time to reflect how your company grows and changes. Review it at least annually and after major changes), track adoption metrics, and use the exception log to catch drift before it becomes an audit problem.Use the information below to help inform your decision, and work with your appropriate professional advisor based on your specific circumstances.What is an accounts payable policy?An accounts payable policy is the written, authoritative set of rules governing how your company receives, approves, codes, pays, and documents vendor invoices. It should answer seven questions AP teams run into constantly:Where do invoices arrive?Who validates and codes them?Who approves and at what thresholds?How and when are invoices paid?How are vendors set up and changed?What documentation must be retained?How are exceptions handled?Leave any of these questions unanswered in the document, and whoever processes the next invoice that triggers it decides the answer on the spot. This results in policies that gradually drift until they no longer match how the team works.Enforcing an AP policy in real life requires the support of procedures and controls. Think of it as a speed limit. The policy is the posted limit, the rule you’re expected to follow. The procedure is the manual that explains how to follow it. The control is the speed camera that catches you automatically, whether you remember the rule or not.Similarly, the AP policy sets the rules and defines what must happen, who's responsible, and under what conditions. The procedure, usually a standard operating procedure (SOP) or a tool-specific runbook, shows the step-by-step instructions. The controls in your AP tool configuration or ERP logic help prevent errors even when people skip the process. Keeping these layers separate makes the policy easier to enforce and more useful in day-to-day work.5 signs your current AP policy isn’t workingA failing policy shows up in familiar ways. The close cycle relies on individual memory instead of documentation. People approve invoices in chat tools simply because that’s how it’s always been done. The controller spends the end of the month chasing down answers that the policy should’ve already settled. These bottlenecks show up in subtle ways until an audit forces them into the open. Here’s what the damage often looks like.Your close relies on chasing signaturesWithout clear intake, coding, and approval rules in writing, you spend most of close chasing signatures and untangling discrepancies days before the deadline. Chances are, your approvers and AP staff aren’t working from the same assumptions, so questions that should’ve been settled weeks earlier surface with little time left to fix them. A written policy that standardizes how invoices flow through your accounts payable management process helps fix this upstream, well before the final review starts.Vendor changes and duplicate payments slip through unnoticedA lack of written controls leaves no consistent way to verify vendors, approve payments, or review changes before money leaves the business. A vendor added without verification, or banking details changed via email, is easy to miss when separation-of-duties requirements aren’t explicit. The 2026 Association for Finance Professionals Payments Fraud and Control Survey found that 76% of organizations reported attempted or actual payments fraud in 2025. Named controls close that gap, catching the vendor changes and duplicate payments that would otherwise slide through unreviewed.Some finance teams handle this verification manually, checking vendor changes against a call-back or a second approver every time. Others build it into the AP tool itself, so verification happens automatically before a payment goes out.Your policy and your actual process don’t match under audit scrutinyThe same controls that reduce fraud risk also make audit testing easier. An auditor reviewing AP may ask for the policy, then test whether actual transactions conform to it. If they don’t match, a routine test can turn into a longer, more painful fieldwork process that requires digging up support documentation from multiple sources. However, a policy that reflects how the team actually works can turn that same audit into a clean sign-off.Approval thresholds shift depending on who’s askingWithout a written approval matrix, different approvers set their own informal thresholds. One manager signs off on $5,000 without a second look. Another requires VP approval at $1,000. Separately, each one might be fine, but together they turn approval into a matter of who happens to review the invoice. A documented threshold table, applied consistently across departments, can reduce ambiguity and replace more individual judgment with a verifiable organizational standard that internal accounting controls can rely on.Your liability numbers don’t match what you actually oweWithout a documented policy, invoice intake timing and payment run cadence vary week to week. That inconsistency shows up in missed accruals, skewed days payable outstanding (DPO) calculations, and unreliable cash-flow forecasts. A policy that standardizes intake and payment timing helps fix this at the source. Accounts payable reporting and accounts payable metrics are only as reliable as the process feeding them, so a consistent upstream process gives leadership numbers they can trust.Why do most AP policies fail?Most failed AP policies break down in one of four ways. If you've inherited a policy nobody follows, you'll recognize at least one. Each of the signals below stems from a gap between the written rule and how work actually moves through the finance team.Written for auditors instead of the people doing the workMany AP policies read like they were written for the auditor instead of the department manager who has to act on them. They use passive voice, undefined terms, and vague directives like "invoices should be submitted in a timely manner." When the document doesn't translate to what a specific person does in their actual role, they stop consulting it. The result is a policy that exists on paper but not in the workflow.The exception path is missingReal AP teams handle invoices that don't fit the standard process, including urgent payments and invoices from vendors that aren’t in the AP system yet. When the policy doesn't define how exceptions are handled, people improvise. Those improvisations become informal processes that contradict the written policy, and procedural drift becomes the working standard.Not mapped to the actual tools the team usesA policy that references "the finance platform" when your team uses NetSuite, or describes a workflow that predates the company's switch to automated clearing house (ACH) payments, is hard to enforce. Rules are often easier to apply when they correspond to a specific action in a specific tool. A policy requiring "payments over $50,000 require CFO approval" is easier to enforce when your ERP blocks payment release without that approval. Without tool-based enforcement, the rule is harder to apply consistently.No named owner after publicationA policy needs one named owner responsible for maintenance, updates, and resolving ambiguity, or it stagnates after publication. Controllers who inherit the document often find that the last person who updated it left the company months or years ago, without anyone noticing that it has drifted since. Without an accountable owner, no one feels responsible for overseeing the policy until it becomes the controller’s problem.10 sections to add to your accounts payable policyYour policy document should adapt its scope and depth to the company's size. Even if one person owns AP end-to-end right now, the same core rules apply, just with fewer people to divide them across. The goal here is coverage that is specific enough to guide behavior without turning the policy into a full operating manual.1. Purpose and scopeOne paragraph establishes why the policy exists and who it applies to. Scope should explicitly name employees who submit, approve, or process a vendor invoice, including department managers who approve spend, employees who receive invoices directly from vendors, and AP staff who code and process them. A clear scope prevents the policy from being treated as applying only to accounting. Without it, an invoice can sit unapproved for days simply because a department manager assumed AP would catch it.2. Roles and responsibilitiesName each role and, in direct language, state what they own. Here are some examples you may want to use for your own policy:AP staff own intake, validation, coding, and payment runsApproving managers and department heads confirm invoices against budget and business justificationThe controller owns oversight, exception approval, and policy maintenanceThe finance leader owns policy structure and major changesOn a smaller team, one person may hold several of these roles at once, but the ownership for each one should still be made explicit. Clear role ownership can reduce approval confusion and finger-pointing when exceptions surface.3. Invoice intake requirementsYour intake section should state where invoices must go, who is allowed to receive them, and what happens to invoices missing important information. Getting this right at intake matters because errors caught late create clean-up work later on. Many companies route invoices through a shared AP email inbox or a dedicated portal in their AP system, while invoices sent directly to employees or department managers may need to be redirected immediately. Consider making the following fields a requirement for every invoice:Vendor nameInvoice numberInvoice dateAmountPayment termsPurchase order (PO) reference or cost-center code4. Invoice coding, matching, validationRules for coding invoices to general ledger (GL) accounts, departments, and projects should be explicit. Specify when 2-way matching in accounts payable or invoice matching is required, and name who resolves discrepancies. For example, if an invoice for $5,000 comes in against a purchase order for $4,500, the policy should clearly say who has the authority to approve the difference. Your policy should define how your team will prevent duplicate payments in accounts payable before payment goes out. Specific validation rules help protect both cash and close quality.5. Approval thresholds and authority matrixThis is one of the most commonly bypassed sections when written vaguely, and it’s the section most likely to change day-to-day behavior when it’s specific. State dollar thresholds explicitly, name the role at each level, and include a threshold table that the reader can reference. The no-self-approval rule should be stated in plain language, and thresholds above a routine amount may benefit from dual approval. There are no fixed rules for these numbers, so use the table below as a starting example and adjust it to fit your company’s spending and risk tolerance: Brex Manually enforcing this matrix means trusting every approver to remember it correctly every time. Some finance teams handle this with spot checks. Others route it through their AP tool, so a payment can’t clear without the right sign-offs at the right amount.6. Payment methodsYour policy should name your company’s approved payment methods, such as ACH, wire, check, or virtual card, and state when each one should be used. It should also include how often payment runs happen and set a cut-off time for getting an invoice into a given run. For example, if the cut-off is Wednesday at noon, an invoice approved Wednesday at 3 p.m. will go out in the following week’s run instead of that week’s.The person who creates a payment run, the person who approves it, and the person who releases it should be three different people to maintain separation of duties. Handling for urgent or off-cycle payments should require a named approver and written documentation so speed doesn't override control.7. Vendor setup controlsWhen creating a new vendor, ask for their legal name, tax identification number (TIN), banking details, and W-9 or W-8BEN tax forms. Any change to vendor payment information may be verified by calling a known contact directly. Your vendor management guide should spell out this verification step in detail. Some finance teams handle this verification manually, while others build it into their AP tool so vendor changes get flagged and routed for a second check automatically. Either way, this is one of the clearest places where written policy can reduce the risk of preventable fraud.8. Documentation retentionYour retention section should specify what must be attached to each invoice record. Required attachments usually include the invoice itself, evidence of approval, supporting PO or contract, and any exception approvals. Documents should be stored in the AP tool, ERP attachment field, or a paperless accounts payable document management tool. The IRS generally requires companies to keep records for three years, although certain situations, like underreported income or unfiled returns, can extend that significantly. For company-specific retention treatment, consult a qualified tax or accounting professional.9. Separation of dutiesThis section should state which duties can't be held by the same person. A 2026 report from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) found that a lack of internal controls was the single most common factor behind occupational fraud, cited in 33% of cases. Because of risks like this, the following four categories are typically kept separate:Authorization of transactionsCustody of assetsTransaction recordkeepingReconciliationMatch the policy’s complexity to your team’s size. A 15-person finance team doesn’t need a Fortune 500 structure with five approval tiers. Simplify where it makes sense until the team needs more separation. Lean teams, for instance, might opt for compensating controls like controller review of new vendor setups and payment-run reconciliation sign-off.10. Exception handlingYour policy should define a specific path for exceptions. A common approach is for exceptions to be submitted to the controller or a delegated authority with written business justification, documented in the AP tool with an exception code, and reviewed in aggregate on a defined cadence. Exception approvers should typically sit one organizational level above the normal approver for that transaction type. Keep exceptions as visible, auditable deviations from the process so they don’t become the unofficial workflow.Follow these 7 practices to ensure your AP policy sticksKnowing what to include isn't the same as knowing how to write it. These seven decisions determine whether the policy shapes actual behavior or sits unread in a shared drive. Most teams can draft, review, and roll this out in a couple of weeks, resulting in exceptions that get handled without guesswork.1. Write for the person doing the workReplace passive constructions with direct instructions, and vague directives with named actions. For example, write "forward all invoices to ap@company.com within one business day of receipt" instead of "invoices should be submitted in a timely manner." Each clause should be easily understood by a department manager with no accounting background, and immediately tell them what they're required to do. Clear instructions make the policy usable when an invoice arrives and someone has to decide what to do with it.2. Anchor each rule to a specific action in a specific toolMatch policy language to the tools your team actually uses. If your ERP refers to the payables queue as "bills," the policy should also call them "bills." If your AP tool routes approvals by dollar threshold, the policy states the exact thresholds that feed those routing rules. A policy clause with no corresponding tool action is harder to enforce consistently, so audit your own document by asking, for each rule, where in the tool it happens.3. Keep the policy document short and push process detail into SOPsMove detailed process flows, tool screenshots, edge cases, and role-specific instructions into separate SOPs that the policy references. The policy sets the standard, while the SOP shows how to meet it in the tool. That separation keeps the policy readable while preserving the detail operators still need. It also makes future tool updates easier because the policy and the operating steps don't have to change simultaneously.4. Get visible sign-off from leadership before publishingSecure explicit sign-off from the finance leader or CFO in writing before publishing, and have leadership communicate it to department heads before the document goes out. A policy with that visible endorsement carries more weight as a company requirement. Sponsorship matters because policy adoption often depends on approvers outside finance, and leadership support reduces the time AP staff spend negotiating exceptions that should already be settled.5. Roll out by role with targeted briefingsEmailing the document isn't a rollout. A rollout tied to a role tends to land better than broad distribution alone. Hold brief, role-specific briefings, including one for AP staff covering the full policy and tool walk-through, one for approvers covering exactly what changes for them, and one for any employee who regularly submits or receives invoices. For each group, the briefing should answer one question about what they do differently tomorrow. If a department head pushes back on a new threshold or requirement, route that conversation through the finance leader who already signed off.6. Configure your AP tool to enforce the rulesFor each policy requirement, identify the corresponding setting that enforces it. Approval thresholds map to routing rules in the AP tool, vendor-setup requirements map to vendor-master change controls, and duplicate detection maps to matching logic in the ERP. Rules configured into the tool can often be enforced at the transaction level without anyone having to remember them manually. AP automation and the ability to automate accounting processes can help turn policy language into tool logic.7. Version and date for every releaseEach published version should generally have a version number, the date it takes effect, and a named owner in the document header. A policy without a date is harder to audit, and a policy without a version number makes it less clear which version governs a past transaction under review. When a revision is made, archive the prior version and redistribute the updated one.How to keep your AP policy working after launchThese practices apply once the policy is live. They keep the document functioning as an active control rather than drifting back into irrelevance. A policy usually stays useful only if the finance team treats it as something to maintain, test, and refine.Review the policy at least annually after trigger eventsMany companies review their policy annually, though certain events trigger a review sooner. A formal policy update may also be required when your company changes accounting tools, adds a new entity through acquisition, receives an audit finding related to AP, or faces a change in applicable regulations. Each completed review should be version-stamped, the prior version archived, and the updated document redistributed.Track these metrics to know whether the policy is being followedCompliance can't be assumed, so track a small set of monthly indicators. Some examples include the following:Percentage of invoices received through the standard intake channelAverage approval cycle timeCount of invoices overdue in the approval queueNumber of policy exceptions logged per month, by departmentIf any of your metrics trend in the wrong direction after a policy update, the cause is often in the policy language, the tool configuration, or the training. Your accounts payable best practices should include regular metric review as a standing agenda item.Use the exception log as a policy improvement toolThe exception log shows where the policy is unclear, where thresholds are unrealistic, and where the process doesn't match how work actually flows. A recurring exception type signals either a policy update or an investigation. An empty exception log after launch isn’t a good sign either, as it usually means exceptions aren’t being documented and the informal workarounds the policy should replace are still running behind the scenes.Disclaimer: This article reflects Brex's perspective at the time of publication and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Laws, regulations, and guidance may vary based on your specific circumstances, and interpretations or outcomes may differ. Information may also change over time. Before making any decisions, you should consult your own qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial advisors.This story was produced by Brex and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	July was Quad Cities International Airport's busiest month in 13 years A total of 69,578 passengers traveled through the Quad Cities International Airport in July.
	13th annual Hampton Days will bring food, fun for all ages The 13th Annual Hampton Days will be held Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21-22, a news release says. Admission is free. Friday Saturday Food vendors will include Octeen, Sweet Treat, The Main Squeeze, TC’s Kettle Corn, Hacienda Mexican Grill and Don Monico’s. Village of Hampton will sell hot dogs, burgers and chips.
	Bettendorf Middle School to show off first phase of $33.7-million project Bettendorf Middle School has completed the first phase of a multi-year, $33.7-million improvement project.
	One dead, Iowa Trooper injured in Stuart shooting A suspect is in custody following a deadly shooting in Stuart that left a woman dead and an Iowa State Patrol trooper injured.
	Product liability for retailers: Why your business could be liable for what you sell or make Product liability for retailers: Why your business could be liable for what you sell or makeManufacturers aren’t the only business entity that could get sued over a defective product. If you sell products in a store, shop or online, or even if you just vend occasionally at flea markets, craft fairs or pop-ups, your business could be found liable if a product you make or sell injures someone or causes property damage.Knowledge of product liability can help you identify the business risks of the products that you sell — and take steps to protect your business. Below, ERGO NEXT shares what retailers and vendors need to know about product liability.Key takeawaysBusinesses that sell or make products can sometimes be liable if a product causes a customer injury or damages their property.A business does not have to manufacture a product to be named in a product liability lawsuit. Just selling a defective product can mean you’re responsible.Retail store owners, shops and online retailers who understand their risks could protect themselves from the costs of some damages if they choose the right kind of business insurance and preventative business practices.Can a business be sued for a product it sells?Product liability is a business’s legal responsibility if a product it makes or sells causes an injury, illness, or property damage. And if a customer claims that a product injures them or damages their property, they could sue one or more of the businesses in the supply chain — including the business that sold the product.If a customer believes your product caused them harm, your business could be named in a claim. Here are a few examples of what a product liability claim could look like for a retailer:A skincare product causes an allergic reaction. A local soap and skincare company has its own private label line of products created by a manufacturer. A customer claims the product caused a severe skin reaction that required medical attention and caused them to miss work for a week. The customer sues both businesses.A candle starts a fire. A customer buys a handmade candle from your online store. They claim it overheated and damaged an expensive piece of furniture, leading to a claim.A pet treat makes an animal sick. A pet owner buys treats from your store, and they claim the treats made their dog seriously ill. Even if you didn’t manufacture the treats, your business and your co-packer/manufacturer could still be named in a lawsuit to recover vet bills.A folding chair collapses and injures someone. A customer buys a folding chair from your hardware store. It breaks during normal use and causes a physical injury that results in medical bills. The result could be a claim against your business.Many product liability claims come down to the customer’s belief that the product wasn't as safe as it should have been. Sometimes the problem happens during product manufacturing. Other times it's the product's design. Maybe customers weren’t given enough information on how to use the product safely.A single claim can involve several companies in the supply chain, depending on how the product was designed, made, marketed and sold. Businesses commonly named in product liability claims include:Manufacturers who design or make the product.Importers who bring products into the U.S. to sell.Distributors or wholesalers who supply products to retailers.Retail stores that sell the product, from local boutiques to hardware stores and pet shops.Online sellers, including businesses that sell through third-party markets like Amazon, Shopify, Etsy or eBay.Private-label brands that sell products under their own name, even if another company manufactured them.If a customer is injured or their property is damaged, it's common for multiple businesses to be named in the same lawsuit.“Wait … I didn't even make it.”This is one of the biggest misconceptions for retailers about product liability. Many business owners assume responsibility begins and ends with the manufacturer. But in reality, customers often don't know where a problem started — and they don't have to figure that out before filing a claim.Instead, they may name several businesses involved with the product, including the retailer. The courts and insurance companies then work to determine who may be at fault.Being named in a lawsuit doesn't automatically mean your business did anything wrong. But it can mean dealing with the costs of defending your business while the claim is resolved.Which types of product problems could lead to liability claims for a seller?These are some of the most common types of product defects that could lead to liability claims.Manufacturing defectsThese problems usually affect a specific batch or group of products. It could be a problem with the materials being used or an issue with the product’s assembly.Design defectsSometimes nothing went wrong during manufacturing — the product was built to specifications. The issue is that the design itself created a safety risk when the product is used as intended.Missing instructions or warningsEven a well-made product can create problems if customers aren't told how to use it safely. Confusing instructions, unclear labels or missing safety warnings can all become part of a claim.Product liability claims can be complex. In some cases, more than one of these issues may be involved. Determining which part of the supply chain is at fault can take time.6 tips for retailers and online retailers to help reduce product liability riskYou can't eliminate every risk, but you can make product liability claims less likely. A few smart habits can go a long way. Here are some of the best ways to reduce your risk:1. Stay on top of product recalls. Even well-known brands issue recalls from time to time. If a product you sell is recalled, stop selling it immediately and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Acting quickly helps protect your customers and limits your exposure. To check if a product has been recalled or is subject to a safety warning, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a searchable database of consumer product recalls and safety notices.2. Know who you’re buying from. Work with reputable manufacturers and wholesalers that follow product safety standards and have a track record of quality. If something seems too good to be true — like unusually cheap inventory — it’s worth a closer look.3. Keep transaction records. Save invoices, supplier details and purchase orders so you can trace where the products you sell came from. If your products include lot, batch or serial numbers, keep those organized as well. This information can be critical if you ever need to respond to a complaint or recall.4. Give new inventory a quick once-over. Check new or incoming stock for visible damage, missing parts or packaging issues. Catching problems early can help reduce the chance that a defective product reaches a customer.5. Don’t modify products without understanding the risks. Even small changes — like repackaging or bundling products — can affect safety or performance. If you alter a product in any way, make sure you understand how that change could impact your liability.6. Take customer complaints seriously. Customer complaints aren't always just customer service issues. Paying attention can help you spot patterns before they become bigger problems.How product liability insurance could help protect a businessIf you manufacture your own products, sell products online or stock inventory in a retail store, product liability insurance won't prevent a claim from happening, but it could help protect your business from the financial impact of a claim.Product liability insurance could help protect your business from costs if a customer claims a product you made or sold caused them property damage, bodily injury or some other kind of harm that costs them money. This coverage could help if you're sued over a covered claim, and it could help pay legal defense costs and settlements, depending on your policy.Product liability for retailers FAQGet answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about product liability for the products you sell online, at events, in stores and in shops.Can I be sued for a product defect if I didn't manufacture the product?Yes. Businesses that sell, distribute or import products can sometimes be named in product liability lawsuits, even if another company manufactured the product. Whether you're ultimately responsible depends on the facts of the case, but multiple businesses are often included while liability is determined.Can general liability insurance cover product liability?Yes, general liability insurance usually includes products-completed operations coverage, which can help cover certain product liability claims. This type of business insurance policy could help cover legal defense costs, settlements or judgments, depending on the policy's terms, limits and exclusions.What's the difference between product liability insurance and product recall insurance?Product liability insurance and product recall insurance cover different risks. Product liability insurance could help cover claims involving injuries or property damage. Product recall insurance is designed to help cover certain costs associated with recalling products from the market, such as notifying customers or replacing inventory.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Retailers are collecting your biometrics. Some local governments are fighting back. Retailers are collecting your biometrics. Some local governments are fighting back.When shoppers walk into a grocery store, they expect security cameras. Few expect the store to analyze their faces, eyes, and voices.Earlier this year, customers entering some Wegmans stores in New York City learned that the retailer was using facial recognition technology in its locations and storing customers’ biometric data. The disclosure, required under a 2021 city ordinance governing biometric collection, initially drew little attention beyond the city.But when the Buffalo-based Investigative Post asked whether Wegmans was also using the technology in Western New York stores, the company’s lack of response drew concern from local lawmakers.Now, Erie County has banned private-sector biometric collection outright, becoming the first county in the state and one of the first major counties across the United States to do so.Next City investigated how local governments are enacting laws governing the collection of biometric information by private companies.For Erie County Legislator Lawrence Dupre, who represents Buffalo’s predominantly Black East Side and introduced the legislation on May 26, the unanswered questions raised a larger issue: How much personal information should private companies be allowed to collect from people who simply walk through their doors?“That silence [from Wegmans] is what drove my initial response,” Dupre told Next City via email. “My constituents live in neighborhoods where surveillance has become the norm. We are already watched and profiled as we go about our lives. When I learned that the same corporations operating in our neighborhoods might be building biometric databases without telling us, I initially responded with a bill that was modeled on what New York City passed in 2021.”It took three years for the city to pass its biometric privacy law. What began as a proposal requiring businesses to disclose biometric collection ultimately evolved into one of the nation’s most restrictive local laws regulating commercial facial recognition technology.The more Dupre studied biometric surveillance, the more he concluded that transparency alone would not solve the problem. A disclosure requirement, he argued, amounted to little more than a permission slip.“You are telling businesses: Go ahead and collect this permanent, irreplaceable data, just put up a sign first. A ban was the right response because the data itself is the danger.”On April 30, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz signed the Biometric Transparency and Privacy Act into law. The measure prohibits private businesses from collecting, using, retaining, or selling biometric identifiers, including facial recognition data, in most commercial settings. Violators face fines of up to $5,000 per day.“You can reset a password. You cannot reset your face,” said Dupre during the press conference announcing the new law.According to the New York Civil Liberties Union, the new measure is necessary to address the rise of facial recognition technology in businesses in response to evidence that the technology was frequently inaccurate and racially biased, leading to wrongful harassment, removal from establishments, arrests, and even jail time for misidentified individuals.In February, Wegmans confirmed that it had deployed facial recognition technology in “a small fraction” of its stores, saying biometric information was not shared with third parties and was retained only as long as necessary for security purposes. The company did not disclose how long data was stored, stating only that its retention practices align with industry standards, nor did it identify how many locations used the technology or where they were located.Facial recognition technology has rapidly become embedded in everyday life. It unlocks smartphones, verifies identities at airports, and increasingly serves as a security tool for retailers and entertainment venues. Yet privacy advocates argue that regulation has failed to keep pace with adoption.Fight for the Future, a digital rights organization, has identified numerous retailers that either use or may be using facial recognition technology in stores.Lia Holland, campaigns and communications director for Fight for the Future, told Next City that the growth of biometric surveillance is occurring largely outside public awareness.“The retail industry is sensitive to customer outcry, and that is the most effective lever we have found for self-regulation short of passing a law,” Holland explained. “However, outcry has also gotten less effective over time as the surveillance industry pours millions of PR and marketing dollars into overcoming how unwanted their technology is.”The United States currently has no comprehensive federal law regulating facial recognition technology.At the state level, only Illinois, Texas, and Washington currently have laws dedicated to private uses of biometric data. Everywhere else, biometric data is protected either as a category of sensitive data under a general consumer privacy law, or only through data-breach notification rules.ICE and government use of biometric dataFor immigrant communities, another concern looms large: government access to biometric data collected by private entities.Erie County’s law exempts government agencies acting within their official duties, as well as financial institutions. That exemption means federal immigration authorities are not restricted by the county’s ban when conducting enforcement operations.“The most urgent harm we see is illustrated by how this data is being fed into the hands of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and it is being used not only to abduct people off the streets, but also to intimidate activists and legal observers who challenge ICE,” Holland said.Federal immigration agencies have dramatically expanded their use of facial recognition technology in recent years. Critics warn that commercial databases could eventually become valuable sources of information for enforcement agencies seeking to identify and track individuals.Jillian E. Nowak, managing attorney of the Buffalo Immigration Office for Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York, says that Erie County’s law only offers a potential remedy for surveillance violations committed by private entities but does nothing to address ICE’s own use of the technology.“We know that ICE uses and continues to develop technology to identify individuals based on facial recognition or iris-scanning technology, particularly in orchestrating widespread community pickups,” Nowak said. “ICE also routinely uses GPS monitoring via ankle or wrist devices and monitors social media.”“Absent intervention from the courts,” she added, “I am not aware of any meaningful oversight or guardrails of ICE’s use of these surveillance technologies.”Several immigrant leaders in the city tell Next City that knowledge of facial recognition and its ubiquity in public life remains low within their communities, despite fears about immigration enforcement.For Dupre, Erie County’s ordinance was never intended to be the final answer. Instead, he sees it as a model that other local governments can adopt while state and federal lawmakers continue debating broader reforms.“A lot of communities are waiting for the state legislature or Congress to act, and that wait could take years,” Dupre said. “County government is close enough to the people to hear what they need and responsive enough to act on it. Other counties can do the same.”He says the law draws a distinction between ordinary security measures and biometric surveillance.“We designed this to change behavior, not generate lawsuits,” Dupre explained. “A store can still record video. What it cannot do is run facial recognition software to build a biometric profile of everyone who walks through the door. The line this law draws is between security and surveillance.”This story was produced by Next City, a nonprofit newsroom covering solutions for equitable cities, and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Residents raise concerns over proposed Rock Island County data center Advocates in Rock Island County are pushing for Illinois' proposed POWER Act, citing concerns over data centers straining local power grids and water supplies.
	Greetings from Trouville-sur-Mer, a beach town little changed since Monet painted it The Normandy beach town of Trouville-sur-Mer is a two-hour train ride from Paris, but feels a world away, with English Channel breezes and the sound of seagulls screeching through the cobbled streets.
	Moline man arrested after allegedly stealing 26-foot U-Haul truck A Moline man was arrested on Tuesday and is charged in Scott County District Court after allegedly stealing a truck from a Davenport U-Haul dealer.
	Chance for some showers this evening A fairly nice start to our Wednesday morning but not looking to stay that way for the rest of the afternoon and evening. We are looking at the chance for some showers and potential thunderstorms South of interstate 80 with a few showers in the metro QCA. We are also seeing the possibility of a [...]
	Prebiotics vs. probiotics: What’s the difference? Prebiotics vs. probiotics: What’s the difference?Whether you’re inundated with #fibermaxxing content or overwhelmed by the vast options in the probiotic aisle at your local pharmacy, it can’t be denied: Gut health is having a moment. But the terminology around it can get muddled fast. Prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics: They're often used interchangeably, which makes it hard to know what your body actually needs, or what you're even paying for.And they’re not interchangeable. Each has a different job to do and provides your microbiome with various benefits. Ritual breaks down what prebiotics and probiotics actually do, and why the distinction matters more than you'd think.What Are Probiotics?According to the World Health Organization, probiotics are living strains of bacteria (often referred to as “good bacteria”) that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can support both immune and digestive health in the person ingesting them.Since these types of bacteria are only able to take up temporary residence in the gastrointestinal tract (read: days or weeks at maximum), evidence suggests that in order for probiotics to provide support, they must be consumed on a consistent basis—ideally, daily.What Are Prebiotics?In contrast to probiotics, which are live bacteria, prebiotics are not living organisms—they’re nondigestible food components that strategically support the “good bacteria” that already exist in the gut. Certain prebiotics, such as the ones found in complex carbs, act as nutrients for beneficial bacteria that live in the digestive system. Similar to probiotics, they can come in the form of prebiotic supplements or foods.Prebiotic foods include complex carbohydrates and produce like flax, oats, garlic, root vegetables, apples, and green bananas. Complex carbs are difficult for humans’ digestive systems to process and arrive largely intact to the colon, where they act as nutrients for the beneficial bacteria that reside there.Sources of Prebiotics and ProbioticsIn addition to taking supplements, there are many fermented and prebiotic foods you can incorporate into your diet. Although many fermented foods and drinks are associated with healthy diets (and some may even be associated with health benefits), there’s actually very little evidence that the live cultures that are naturally present can survive the harsh conditions in the stomach and small intestine. What’s more, studies also show that fermented foods and drinks typically do not contain proven probiotic microorganisms, which is why taking a high-quality probiotic supplement can be helpful for supporting gut flora.Can You Take Prebiotics And Probiotics Together?Yes, because they serve complementary functions: Probiotics introduce bacteria to the microbiome, while prebiotics act as the food source for the bacteria in your gut. Without prebiotics, the microbes in your microbiome starve—and fail to release beneficial compounds like short-chain fatty acids.Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: The Bottom LineSo, to recap: Probiotics add to the population of beneficial bacteria in the gut, while prebiotics support the growth of beneficial bacteria. It can be tricky to ensure you’re consuming enough of both—especially if you struggle with consuming produce or enjoying fermented foods, but supplements can provide gut support.This story was produced by Ritual and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	AI is fueling demand for finance talent, not replacing it AI is fueling demand for finance talent, not replacing itMuch of the conversation around artificial intelligence and the labor market focuses on volatility such as increasing tech company layoffs and shrinking opportunities for junior-level workers. While those disruptions are continuing, Toptal’s new High-skilled Job Report for Q2 2026 tells a different story for one pocket of the job market.The report found that demand for experienced finance consultants grew 31% quarter over quarter (QoQ) and 39% year over year (YoY). It was the strongest showing for any of the 10 technology and professional services job segments the company tracks (the others are data science experts, designers, developers, information security specialists, management consultants, marketers, product and project managers, and sales professionals). Toptal One driver of the jump may be a general release of pent-up hiring demand as heightened volatility in the larger economy started to calm in Q2. Energy prices eased and U.S. job growth was steadier than it was in Q1, with moderate growth in April and May, and smaller gains in June. Indeed, the experienced technology and professional services sector as a whole experienced a moderate increase in demand, 7.1% QoQ and 12.6% YoY, according to the report. But this overall resilience doesn’t fully explain the magnitude of the increase seen in the finance segment.Behind the Surge in Demand for Finance TalentThe finance sector had a strong quarter in Q2, with bank earnings, initial public offerings (IPOs), mergers, and acquisitions all climbing. That increased financial activity led to higher demand for finance professionals with skills in due diligence, valuation, and accounting, according to the report.Another driver of the increasing demand for finance talent may be AI itself, a counterintuitive result given widespread fears among job seekers that AI will eliminate jobs rather than create them. As companies adopt AI across finance, accounting, and banking functions, they need experienced experts who can carefully evaluate AI deployment options, assess risks, and apply human judgment and expertise to AI output and decision-making. Companies also need finance consultants to help them model and validate the return on investment (ROI) from AI investments.The surge in demand may also be evidence of a correction of sorts, says Erik Stettler, Toptal’s chief economist and author of the report. Finance was one of the areas of the labor market most exposed to AI-related hiring volatility early on, he says. Companies initially assumed AI could handle a significant swath of financial analysis independently. Now these organizations are developing a better understanding of the strengths and limitations of AI, prompting them to hire more human experts, according to Stettler.This mirrors a trend being reported elsewhere. A recent survey by Robert Half found that 32% of hiring managers who eliminated roles after implementing AI later had to hire people back for the same, or similar, roles. Although the full report results aren’t publicly available, Fast Company reported in June that the finance sector had the highest share of managers who rehired for AI-impacted roles, at 44%. As Megan Slabinski, district president of technology talent solutions at Robert Half, told the publication, “Companies that moved too quickly on AI are now seeing where it falls short in practice. While they may have seen early efficiency gains, those efforts also surfaced gaps in quality, oversight, and decision-making, especially as business demands picked up.”A Sharp Acceleration After Slower GrowthAfter an essentially flat QoQ trend in Q4 2025, demand for experienced finance consultants accelerated in Q1 2026, with an 11% increase, according to previous Toptal reports. Q2’s 31% jump shows that trend continuing to pick up speed.Because Toptal’s talent network of 30,000 professionals is fully distributed, the report also examines demand specific to remote and hybrid jobs. Demand for experienced finance consultants within that segment increased 27% QoQ and 42% YoY. Full-time postings for remote or hybrid finance consultants were up 7% QoQ, while part-time postings grew far faster (55%), suggesting that employers are leaning into flexible finance talent that can fill urgent openings as business needs change.That growth runs counter to fears that AI would permanently reduce opportunities for finance experts. Instead, the data suggests AI adoption is driving increased demand for experienced finance talent. The report predicts that healthy demand will continue into Q3, with ongoing regulatory scrutiny increasing the need for compliance and governance expertise in particular.MethodologyTo measure the strength of various segments of the technology and professional services job market, the High-skilled Job Report uses a proprietary metric called the Toptal Market Strength Score. The score draws on three inputs from data analytics firm Lightcast: the number of new job postings, median compensation offered in those postings, and actual hiring activity. Hiring is equally weighted against postings and compensation, to correct for ghost jobs that employers advertise without real intent to hire.This story was produced by Toptal and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Wednesday, August 19th, 2026