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

Thursday, July 16th, 2026
	The Third Place will remain closed Thursday after window broken overnight Third Place officials said those needing a cooling center on Thursday can go to Project NOW, which is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
	Missing girl found, East Moline Police say Neveah Lindsey was safe as of Thursday afternoon, according to a Facebook post.
	Bettendorf Community School District agrees to $720K settlement with former superintendent Michelle Morse Former Bettendorf Superintendent Michelle Morse will receive a $720,000 settlement after reaching an agreement to end her contract nearly two years early.
	1905 former Davenport fire station restored for stylish new music venue The historic Hose Station No. 7, 1354 W. 4th St., Davenport (two blocks west of Marquette) – last used as a fire station over six decades ago – is now a gleaming new bar and live music venue.
	Federal officials probe whether White House teleprompter profited off Trump's words It's the first known instance of officials investigating suspected insider trading on a prediction market from inside the White House.
	Officials probe whether White House teleprompter operator profited off Trump's words It's the first known instance of officials investigating suspected insider trading on a prediction market from inside the White House.
	Freedom House opens new shelter for domestic abuse survivors in Kewanee The $2.5 million renovation of the former OSF Healthcare office on Elliott Street will provide 40 private family accommodations, a play area, communal living and dining, and enhanced security.
	We the People: How mold found on a Peoria market melon saved millions in WWII In 1941, the world’s first antibiotic was mass-produced in a Peoria agriculture lab.
	Iowa City man sentenced over 19 years for purchasing 30 pounds of meth, federal court says A U.S Southern District Court of Iowa judge sentenced a man to 235 months in federal prison on drug charges.
	Inside Iowa Politics: How Pete Buttigieg thinks Democrats should show ‘tough’ Former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg doesn't think Democrats need to emulate President Donald Trump as they campaign before voters.
	REVIEW: The Wizard of Oz at Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island Director Tony Parise and his tech team have created an enchanting production true to the film that includes a huge spiral platform to suggest the funnel cloud that whisks Dorothy to the magical land of Oz along with a gingerbread farmhouse front, dancing apple trees, prancing poppies, and madcap munchkins. What can’t be duplicated onstage is accomplished by projections onto the scrim.
	REVIEW: Grandma Gatewood Took a Walk at The Black Box Theatre Five shows opened this past weekend in various venues. Of these, only Circa 21’s current production will run beyond next weekend. So, if your circumstances dictate that you can only choose one performance to attend next weekend you should choose The Black Box Theatre’s production of Grandma Gatewood Takes a Walk, Catherine Bush’s stage adaptation of Ben Montgomery’s New York Times best seller, Grandma Gatewood’s Walk here directed by the talented Jennifer Kingrey.
	Vandalism closes The Third Place for a day Vandalism has caused The Third Place QC to close today. A post on the group’s Facebook page said the building was vandalized Wednesday night and the front window was broken. “We do have camera footage, have identified the individual responsible and have shared all of the information with the Rock Island Police Department,” the post [...]
	7 benefits of linen sheets 7 benefits of linen sheetsFlax linen is believed to be the oldest textile known to man, with evidence of its use dating back 30,000 years. There's a reason linen has been a bedroom staple for all of history. Long before thread counts and temperature-regulating technologies, people understood that this ancient fabric is simply built differently.Today, linen sheets are having a well-deserved renaissance, and if you've ever wondered whether the splurge is worth it, the answer is a resounding yes. From the way they soften with every wash to their ability to keep you cool and comfortable year-round, linen sheets go far beyond good looks. Naturepedic shares seven benefits of linen sheets.First Things First: What Is Organic Linen?Linen is a type of textile woven from flax plants. Organic linen means it was grown without the use of harmful pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, prohibited by the Global Organic Textile Standard. The cultivation process of organic linen adheres to organic farming principles, which focus on maintaining soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance.Once harvested, organic flax fibers are processed using environmentally friendly methods to produce linen fabric. Organic linen is prized for its sustainability, breathability, and durability, making it a highly sought-after choice for bedding material.7 Benefits of Linen SheetsLinen sheets have become increasingly popular for their numerous benefits and aesthetic appeal, offering a blend of luxury and practicality that enhances sleep quality and interior spaces.Keep reading to find out the top benefits of linen sheets.1. Better for Your HealthBecause it is grown and processed without those GOTS-prohibited chemicals mentioned earlier, certified organic linen is better for your health, as it reduces your exposure to toxins found in synthetic materials and minimizes off-gassing. Linen is also allergy-friendly, as its looser weave prevents allergens from getting trapped in the fabric, making it a suitable choice for those with sensitivities.2. Planet-FriendlyFlax fibers are the oldest known to be used by humans, with evidence of their cultivation and linen weaving tracing back earlier than ancient Egypt. Linen, derived from flax plants, is typically grown using natural rainfall, reducing the strain on local water resources compared to water-intensive crops. When grown without GOTS-prohibited pesticides and fertilizers, organic flax farming minimizes harmful health and environmental impacts. Flax even improves soil health and absorbs carbon dioxide, actively contributing to a healthier Earth beyond just reducing harm compared to conventional crops.3. Durable and ComfortableLinen is light and airy, yet the natural strength of its flaxen fibers makes it more durable than conventional fabrics. Its loose weave and texture provide a luxurious, lived-in look. Additionally, linen becomes softer with each wash, providing a comfortable and gentle touch against the skin. Its longevity and resistance to pilling also make linen sheets a more sustainable and cost-effective choice for bedding.4. Cool and CozyLinen sheets are renowned for their exceptional breathability, moisture-wicking properties and durability.They naturally regulate temperature, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter with an insulating effect. This makes them ideal for year-round use and a great investment to have in your home.5. Aesthetic AppealingLinen sheets are elegant in an effortless, down-to-earth way, with a stone-washed finish for a lived-in look that’s trendy yet timeless. Opt for organic linen sheets in natural tones to avoid harsh dyes and chemical fabric treatments found in conventional bed linens, without having to compromise your home aesthetic in the name of better health.6. Easy to MaintainOne of the most appealing aspects of linen sheets is their easy maintenance. They can be machine washed and dried, making them convenient for everyday use. Unlike more delicate fabrics that require special care, linen is durable enough to withstand regular laundering without losing its quality or softness. Plus, there’s no ironing, steaming, or fluffing required — linen’s natural creases and texture are a part of its appeal.7. Ethically GrownOrganic linen begins with sustainable farming practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and fair treatment of workers. When a product is GOTS certified organic, it means it meets strict environmental and social criteria throughout the entire textile supply chain. This certification ensures that the product is made with organic fibers, is as free from harmful chemicals as is reasonable and meets stringent social and environmental standards in its production.GOTS certification covers the entire production process, from harvesting of raw materials through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labeling, to provide a credible assurance to the end consumer. Ethical linen production aims for transparency throughout the supply chain, from field to fabric, promoting accountability and supporting communities involved in its cultivation.This story was produced by Naturepedic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport chiropractor accused of leaving a patient paralyzed surrenders his license A Davenport chiropractor surrendered his license after an adjustment allegedly left a patient paralyzed. Read details of the state settlement.
	REVIEW: The SpongeBob Musical at Quad City Music Guild in Moline This show is a raucous, energetic, colorful romp that will set millennials’ toes to tapping especially during Squidward Q. Tentacles real tap dance number.
	Grant supports Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine housing initiative The Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine has been awarded a $250,000 grant through the Community Foundation Climate Collaborative. The award is supported by the McKnight Foundation and will advance innovative housing solutions that reduce carbon emissions while making homes more affordable to build, less expensive to own and more resilient for generations of homeowners. The [...]
	REVIEW: Heaven Help Me at Richmond Hill Players Barn Theatre in Geneseo July has heated up to be as hot as h-e-double hockey sticks with humidity to match so if you’re looking to get out of the house but skip Gehenna I recommend a short jaunt out to Geneseo to take in Richmond Hill Players current production of Heaven Help Me by Joe Simonelli.
	The bras of 'Off Campus': Why the show's lingerie styling is sparking a bigger conversation about fit The bras of ‘Off Campus’: Why the show's lingerie styling is sparking a bigger conversation about fitThe bras on Prime Video’s "Off Campus" have become one of the show’s most talked-about wardrobe details.While fans are asking where the lingerie is from, much of the fascination comes from how naturally the bras seem to sit on different bust sizes. Fuller busts look supported without looking forced, while smaller busts look shaped without the stiff push-up effect so often shown on screen.The difference between those needs is something Felina has studied through fit and inclusive sizing, where the size on a label rarely captures how a bra will feel on a real body."Off Campus” may have made bras part of the conversation, but the reason people keep noticing them sits much closer to everyday life. After all, a good fit is easy to recognize, especially after years of wearing bras that never quite get there.Why the Show's Lingerie ResonatedLingerie is one of the most personal parts of a wardrobe, so it tends to stand out fast when it looks wrong on screen. But "Off Campus" avoided that problem by treating bras as part of who Hannah and Allie are, rather than as pieces brought in only for the camera.Costume designer Charlene Akuamoah told Elle India that lingerie is “the foundation of every single look,” and she carried that idea through the characters in different ways. Hannah’s bras stayed simpler with small pops of color, while Allie’s leaned into sheerness and shape in a way that matched her confidence.Akuamoah also told Page Six Style that she wanted the bras to look beautiful and truly fit each character’s aesthetic. And the care behind those choices is why the lingerie felt personal to viewers, especially for anyone who has ever wanted a bra to feel like part of their style instead of a problem to manage.Once a bra looks that good on screen, it becomes easier to understand why size and fit change the whole experience of getting dressed.Why Bra Fit Goes Wrong So OftenThe hardest part of bra fit is how often it makes shoppers feel like their bodies are the problem. A wrong size is usually a fit issue first, especially when breasts and ribcages rarely follow the neat pattern a size chart suggests.Bra-fit experts often point first to the band, which has to anchor the bra before the straps can help keep everything balanced. A loose band throws off that balance quickly, and a cup with too little room makes the same bra feel even more uncomfortable.Another reason sizing feels so unreliable is that a bra size can change as the body changes. For example, weight changes and hormones can affect how a bra sits, while pregnancy can make an old size feel completely different.And brand sizing adds one more wrinkle, with the same label fitting differently from one maker to the next. This is why regular remeasuring helps bring the bra back to the body, instead of leaving the body to keep adjusting to the bra.The Fuller-Bust GapWomen with fuller busts had another reason to notice the "Off Campus" bras, since fashion-first lingerie has often been easier to find in smaller cup sizes. Mainstream retail has long treated larger cups as a support problem first, leaving many shoppers to choose between pretty styles and bras strong enough to wear all day.Akuamoah’s Page Six Style fit advice gets at why the fix is rarely as simple as going up one cup. The idea is called sister sizing, where the band and the cup move together so a size change keeps the same breast volume in a better fit. But a larger cup without the right band can still leave support feeling off before a person even gets dressed.Experts stress that fuller busts need structured bands and wider straps before lace or sheerness has room to work. They also need enough cup depth to hold the breast without flattening it. And "Off Campus" made that combination visible, giving viewers a rare look at lingerie where support and style are allowed to belong to the same body.Smaller-Bust Support Matters, TooSmaller busts get a different version of the same frustration, with fit problems often brushed aside as if less breast tissue makes support simple. Bustle notes that smaller-chested shoppers often run into bras that do not sit right, such as cups that lift away and straps that never stay where they should.The frustration often starts with styles built to create shape first, leaving real support to feel like an afterthought. Push-up padding may make a bra look fuller on a hanger, but it does little if the band slides instead of anchoring. A smaller bust still needs a bra to sit close to the body and move cleanly under clothing.“Off Campus” helped make that point without spelling it out, since Hannah and Allie showed how different bodies can both look supported when the styling respects the person wearing the bra. Without that fit, easy styling turns into the old routine of adjusting and starting over.What Good Fit Actually Looks LikeNothing beats the feeling of a properly fitted bra, especially after years of wearing one that needs adjusting every time the body moves.A few simple checks that make the difference easier to spot at home, beginning with a band that sits level around the body and stays close enough that only two fingers slide underneath. A band that holds its place gives the straps a better job to do, letting them adjust without digging into the shoulders.The cups should follow with the same clean fit, sitting smoothly against the breast without empty space or spillage along the edge. The National Breast Cancer Foundation's bra fit guide points to the same basics, including smooth cups and a low, even band.Keeping that fit also depends on knowing when the body has outgrown an old size, especially after weight changes or pregnancy. Hormonal swings affect how a bra sits as well, giving shoppers another reason to recheck fit before a once-easy bra turns uncomfortable again.Conclusion: Why a Screen Moment Has Staying PowerAkuamoah told Elle India she loved seeing the online discussion around bras. But like any TV series, "Off Campus" will eventually give up its place on social feeds to the next show people want to talk about.However, the conversation it started has a longer life than the series itself, since it gave women language for something they had felt for years without naming it. So many had blamed their own bodies for a bra that dug at the skin or never sat right, when the fault lay in the design all along.Watching lingerie made for real bodies, on real women, gave people permission to expect the same for themselves. And that change outlasts any show, giving every woman a fairer shot at a bra that actually fits.This story was produced by Felina and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Scam alert: West Burlington police warn of TikTok rental scams after victim loses money West Burlington police warn of social media rental scams after resident loses money. Learn how to verify listings and protect your security deposit.
	Clinton, Iowa planning commission tables vote on data center ordinance The debate comes as a proposed data center could take up over 1,100 acres west of town.
	5 Sparkling Milk Recipes You Have to Try! (BPT) - When temperatures rise and you need a refreshing beverage, consider sparkling milk! The idea might surprise you at first sip, but that surprise is part of the appeal. People are experimenting with sparkling milk recipes in their home kitchens, putting a playful spin on the milk they've loved since childhood.At its simplest, sparkling milk pairs milk with light carbonation, creating a drink that sits somewhere between soda and a creamy refresher. And while it's not an entirely new concept, sparkling milk has been increasingly showing up across social feeds, café menus and even in grocery stores — turning a familiar staple in the fridge into something unexpected and fun!Read on for five delicious sparkling milk recipes that can help hydrate and satisfy those afternoon cravings. And here's a recipe tip: you can get a boost of protein when you use the new Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Ultra-Filtered Milk — a new line of ultra-filtered, pasture-raised organic milk with 50% more protein and 50% less sugar than regular milk.So grab a carton of organic milk and your carbonated water machine and have fun experimenting with these sparkling milk beverage recipes. Cheers!Sparkling Orange Cow Milk This sparkling milk recipe is a bubbly twist on the nostalgic, creamsicle-flavored beverage, Orange Cow. It delivers sprightly sips by combining sweet citrus meets smooth milk, while the bubbles keep each sip feeling light and lively.1/2 cup Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk1/2 cup orange juice2 teaspoons simple syrup1/2 teaspoon vanilla extractCombine milk, simple syrup and vanilla extract into a liquid measuring cup; top with OJ and pour all of the ingredients into the carbonated water machine bottle. Press the carbonation button for 2–3 seconds (shorter time for smaller bottles and depending on how bubbly you like your beverages). Pour into a glass with ice and enjoy!Coconut Lime Sparkling Milk Creamy, tropical and bright, Coconut Lime Sparkling Milk brings a fresh take on a beach-inspired favorite. Smooth coconut blends with crisp lime — perfect for sunny afternoons or whenever you want a mini escape in a glass.1/2 cup Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk1/2 cup unflavored sparkling water (option: swap in a coconut or lime-flavored sparkling water and this can be made with your carbonated water machine or store bought)1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons coconut syrup1/2 lime, cut into wedgesCombine milk, sparkling water and coconut syrup into a liquid measuring cup. Squeeze in two lime wedges. Pour the mixture into the carbonated water machine bottle and carbonate for 2–3 seconds. Pour into a glass — we recommend adding ice, too — and enjoy. Add a little flair by decorating the rim of the glass with a lime wedge or a mini umbrella!Strawberry Shortcake Sparkling Milk Sweet, bright and lightly fizzy, Strawberry Shortcake Sparkling milk turns a classic dessert into a refreshing drink. It blends the flavor of ripe strawberries and vanilla cake with creamy milk and a gentle sparkle for a fun twist. It has a nostalgic charm that feels right at home on warm days or casual get-togethers.1/2 cup Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk1/2 cup strawberry flavored sparkling water (this can be made with your carbonated water machine or store bought)1/4 cup strawberries, diced2 tablespoons condensed milk1/2 teaspoon simple syrup1/2 teaspoon vanilla extractOptional: splash of strawberry syrupMuddle 1/4 cup fresh strawberries and pour into an 8-ounce glass. Combine milk, sparkling water, condensed milk, simple syrup and vanilla extract in a liquid measuring cup. Pour the mixture into the carbonated water machine bottle and carbonate for 2–3 seconds. Place ice cubes into your glass with the muddled strawberries, pour the sparkling milk recipe into the glass and then enjoy the strawberry sweetness in every fizzy sip!Cake Batter Sparkling Milk This sweet and creamy recipe might bring back memories of a childhood birthday! Cake Batter Sparkling Milk brings the flavor of birthday cake into a fizzy, sippable treat that is perfect for celebrations or anytime you want something fun and festive to drink. This recipe is milk-forward but you can always cut it in half if you want a lighter option by reducing the milk by a half cup and instead, adding a half cup of sparkling water.1 cup Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk1/2 teaspoon simple syrup1/2 teaspoon brown sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extractOptional: 2 tablespoons condensed milk Combine all ingredients in a liquid measuring cup. Pour the mixture into the carbonated water machine bottle and carbonate for 2–3 seconds. Pour into a glass with ice, then sit back and celebrate — birthday or not!Espresso Sparkling Milk Put a spin on your morning coffee routine or bring a lively twist to your afternoon pick-me-up with this effervescent Espresso Sparkling Milk recipe. A cross between an iced latte and a soda, this recipe offers the option of combining milk with either shots of espresso or cold brew coffee, as well as making it a caffeinated or decaffeinated beverage.Recipe Option 1: 1/2 cup Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk1/4 cup unflavored sparkling water (this can be made with your carbonated water machine or store bought)2 shots of espressoSplash of your favorite flavored coffee creamerRecipe Option 2: 1/2 cup Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk1/2 cup cold brew coffeeSplash of your favorite flavored coffee creamerCombine all ingredients in a liquid measuring cup. Pour the mixture into the carbonated water machine bottle and carbonate for 2–3 seconds. Pour into a glass with ice and savor your newest coffee creation!You can add a little extra flavor to either recipe by topping off your sparkling coffee beverage with a splash of a flavored coffee creamer, like Organic Valley® French Vanilla Flavored Coffee Creamer or Organic Valley® Sweet Cream Flavored Coffee Creamer.Sparkling milk may have started as a curious idea, but it is quickly becoming a creative way to rethink an everyday favorite that can feel both familiar and a little more playful. And, when you use Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Ultra-Filtered Milk you can increase your protein intake, along with your bubbles!Want to learn more about milk? Below are a few more articles to consider reading while you enjoy your glass of sparkling milk:The Nature of Protein: From Soil to MilkIs Milk a Protein or Carb? What Is This About Cow's Milk Hydrating Better Than Water? Inspired to try other milk beverage recipes? Read more here: 5 Nourishing Milk Drink Recipes to Fill Your Cup Naturally Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Whole Ultra-Filtered Milk has 10% more of the daily recommended value for protein than regular whole milk; the protein content of regular whole milk is 8 grams per serving; Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Whole Ultra-Filtered Milk has 13 grams of protein per serving. Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Whole Ultra-Filtered Milk has 50% less sugar than regular whole milk. The sugar content of regular whole milk is 12 grams per serving. Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Whole Ultra-Filtered Milk has 6 grams per serving.* Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Reduced Fat Ultra-Filtered Milk has 10% more of the daily recommended value for protein than regular reduced fat milk; the protein content of regular reduced fat milk is 8 grams per serving; Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Reduced Fat Ultra-Filtered Milk has 13 grams of protein per serving. Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Reduced Fat Ultra-Filtered Milk has 50% less sugar than regular reduced fat milk. The sugar content of regular reduced fat milk is 12 grams per serving. Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Reduced Fat Ultra-Filtered Milk has 6 grams per serving.* Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk has 10% more of the daily recommended value for protein than regular fat free milk; the protein content of regular fat free milk is 8 grams per serving; Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk has 13 grams of protein per serving. Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk has 50% less sugar than regular fat free milk. The sugar content of regular fat free ultra-filtered milk is 12 grams per serving. Organic Valley® Protein Plus™ Fat Free Ultra-Filtered Milk has 6 grams per serving.
	15 summer supplements to heat-proof your health 15 summer supplements to heat-proof your healthAh, summertime: longer days, warmer nights, vacations and more time soaking up the sun. For many, it's an absolute dream, especially after months of gray days and freezing temps. But the reality is that the same things you love most about summer can have a not-so-great impact on your health if you don't plan for them.One of those things is the heat, which comes with increased sweat and the greater need for electrolytes to maintain balance. Also, because summer days are longer, you're getting more of the sun's rays. This can boost your body's production of vitamin D, but it can also affect your circadian rhythm and sleep patterns and contribute to premature skin aging.Adding the right supplements, like vitamin C and ceramides, to your routine can help you steer clear of heat-related pitfalls and make your sunny days shine even brighter. Below, Life Extension shares supplements to add to your routine and set your summer up for success.At a GlanceLonger days and UV exposure can impact your nutritional needs in summer.Vitamin B3 and other nutrients can help safeguard your skin from the inside out.More time outdoors doesn't mean you don't need vitamin D.Supplements like zinc and probiotics can help support immune system and gut health during summer travel.Core Summer SupplementsWhether you live where it's always sunny or your region is just waking up from winter slumber, summer supplements can offer support. "It's important to change your supplement routine for summer because the body's needs revolve just like the seasons revolve," said Stephen Tapanes, Ph.D., a research scientist at Life Extension.Consider these four nutrients your foundation for supporting summer vitality.1. Vitamin CFor longer days outside, vitamin C is a bright idea. The antioxidant's well-deserved reputation for immune support has been documented over decades of research and use. In fact, one clinical study found that a daily oral dose of 500 mg of vitamin C helped support immune function. Vitamin C also supports heart and respiratory health and collagen synthesis. While savoring slices of grapefruit or squeezing lemon into your water are good ways to get vitamin C, including a supplement in your routine can make your summer even sweeter.2. Vitamin DYes, sunshine naturally increases the amount of vitamin D your body creates, but you may still need vitamin D supplements in the summer. This is especially relevant if you stay indoors, use a high-SPF sunscreen, are older or have darker skin tone.While it's well known that vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus for strong bones, did you know it also promotes heart and cognitive health? And data from one study of 25 randomized controlled trials found that vitamin D supplementation also supports immune health. That makes vitamin D a bright spot in summer wellness.Try to get 10-15 minutes of morning sunlight two to three times a week, and put foods rich in vitamin D (fatty fish, eggs and mushrooms) on the menu. But even with diet, many Americans are lacking in vitamin D. Testing your levels and adding a daily supplement may help.3. MagnesiumWhen the sun's out, the fun's out: more outdoor sports, swimming, and running on trails instead of the treadmill. But summer's heat also means more sweat. As your body loses water, it also loses key minerals like magnesium, an electrolyte that plays a major role in more than 600 biochemical reactions that support (among others) heart, bone, muscle and nerve health.This can be important in fitness, because the need for magnesium may be 10%-20% higher in athletes and those engaging in high physical activity, thanks to sweat loss and urine.Staying hydrated is a great first step, but keeping your electrolyte levels steady is just as important when you're trying to beat the heat. That's where a magnesium glycinate supplement may come in handy. This special form of magnesium is combined with the amino acid glycine and is well-absorbed, meaning different parts of your body can easily make use of this valuable mineral.4. Immune system supportSummer activity can increase some of the metabolic demands on your body, and your immune system is already energetically demanding. And don't forget another trip around the sun (as in aging) means the aging of your immune system, called immune senescence.Fortunately, you can combat immune senescence with exercise (which may be easier to do in the summer), immune-promoting foods and supplements. Zinc and vitamins C and D are well known for immune support, and supplement formulas with mushroom and pu-erh tea extracts have been studied to help maintain a healthy immune response as you age.During the summer, strike the right mix of indoor and outdoor activities to support your immune system while staying out of the heat. Schedule swim sessions or pickleball matches at an indoor facility a few days a week, then take an early morning walk or sunset jog on alternate days.Heat-Beating SupplementsIf there's one thing summer always delivers, it's heat. As the mercury rises and activities move outside, these supplements can help protect your energy levels and skin from too much of a good thing.5. NAD+When you're out hitting the beach, the boardwalk, and the basketball court, chances are your energy level is taking a hit, too. That's where NAD+ comes in. A coenzyme found in every cell of the body, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) acts like a spark plug for cellular energy production.You can help your body maintain healthy NAD+ levels through exercise, diet and NAD-supporting supplements with precursors such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). Your body uses these molecules to support NAD+ production and encourage cellular energy. And since NAD+ levels naturally decline over time, you may want to take this healthy aging supplement year-round.6. CollagenCollagen, the protein synonymous with gorgeous, glowing skin, is an ally in supporting skin health, especially in summer months. UV exposure can cause premature skin aging, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. Collagen is a key component of skin that helps keep it looking healthy and functioning properly.Collagen peptide supplements can support your body’s collagen production during the summer months and beyond, often more easily than collagen you get from food. The collagen normally found in your diet may be difficult for your body to absorb because of its size and structure. Supplements use the hydrolyzed, or peptide, form of collagen because it is easier to absorb. Hydrolyzed collagen also comes in capsules or a powder form that is perfect for adding to a summer smoothie.7. UV and DNA supportTo fully enjoy all your moments in the sun, stock up on mineral-based sunscreen, and add UV protective clothing to your summer wardrobe. These are important first steps for summer health and skin protection. You can take your UV and DNA support to the next level with a seasonal supplement that contains niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3. If you spend a lot of time outdoors year-round, there's no reason why you shouldn't take it daily. It is shown to support the body's natural immune response to UV exposure. Polypodium leucotomos, a fern extract, also helps support skin health and protect against premature aging from outdoor activity, plus it works to promote healthy DNA before, during and after ultraviolet exposure.8. CeramidesSummer's heat, and even the dry indoor air from air conditioning, can sap your skin's moisture. So you want to help your skin retain moisture and promote its overall health, appearance and smoothness. Ceramides promote a healthy skin barrier, which helps support skin hydration and health. Photoceramide supplements that include vitamin C and plant extracts may be even more effective, combining the benefits of hydration, collagen production and protection against everyday oxidative stress.Summer travel supplementsThere's nothing quite like summer travel: family, food, fun and faraway places. But these trips may throw off your well-being. Trust these five supplements to be your go-tos when you're going places.9. ZincWhen it comes to packing summer supplements, think zinc. This essential mineral and antioxidant is an affordable, accessible option that comes in many carry-on-ready varieties, perfect for taking before boarding the plane, train or bus. Zinc is key for immune function and is an essential component of superoxide dismutase, one of your body's most powerful natural antioxidant enzymes. Zinc is also required for the activity of over 300 enzymes in your body.Found naturally in oysters, beef, blue crabs, pumpkin seeds, and tofu, zinc is also an effective, eco-friendly ingredient in mineral sunscreen formulas.10. QuercetinChanging time zones, disrupted sleep patterns, and crowded airports can all challenge your immune system. Quercetin may be able to help. This antioxidant-rich dietary flavonoid, found naturally in fruits and veggies like dark grapes, berries and raw broccoli, encourages heart health and supports a healthy immune response. But traditional quercetin supplements aren't easy for the body to use. When choosing your travel companion, look for quercetin supplements with fenugreek fibers that help enhance the bioavailability.11. ProbioticsExploring new cultures and their culinary specialties is a thrilling part of summer vacation. What isn’t thrilling is how your gut may react to unfamiliar flavors and irregular eating schedules. The shift can challenge your microbiome, leading to occasional bloating, constipation and gas. Bring probiotics on your summer trip to help promote optimal digestive health and encourage GI comfort. Look for advanced probiotics combined with phage technology, which can provide comprehensive support for your gut microbiome, promote regularity and help relieve occasional gas and bloating. It’s a must-have for any culinary adventure.12. Digestive enzymesSummer is filled with barbecues, picnics and potlucks. Delicious as it sounds, all that summer feasting could be unsettling for your tummy—especially if you follow a plant-based diet or feel challenged by foods like dairy. Digestive enzymes may be just what you need to help provide your body with additional digestive support as you navigate summer's calendar. They encourage optimal digestion of the foods you eat, including plant-derived sugar and starch, protein, dairy, fiber and fat. This GI support can be especially welcome during a summer celebration or a long day of travel.13. GABABefore you catch that flight, grab your GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This amino acid is your brain's main "braking" neurotransmitter, and it can help calm your mind in stressful situations—like an airport crowded with impatient passengers. GABA has been clinically studied to help relieve occasional stress, promoting a healthy stress response in as little as 30 minutes.It also encourages a relaxed state of mind, a balanced mood and better sleep, with participants in a clinical study reporting falling asleep faster than the placebo group. That means if your plane jumps time zones or you're sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, GABA may be able to help you rest a little easier.Summer must-haves for increased activityIf you're not the "lazy summer" type and plan to spend more time on your feet while checking out the local sites, you'll want to support your joints and muscles. Check out these seasonal supplements to keep you moving freely all summer long.14. CurcuminIf you're an avid runner, bicyclist, swimmer, or pickleball player, the summer heat isn't going to stop you. But your body may want reinforcements to keep moving smoothly. Curcumin, the bright-yellow polyphenol compound found in turmeric, is a great supplement for inflammation health support during the summer and beyond. Curcumin promotes a healthy inflammatory response, heart and brain health, and a healthy immune response. And advanced formulas deliver up to 45 times more free curcuminoids and include ginger extracts to complement curcumin's benefits.15. Acetyl-L-carnitine and creatineWhether you're a champion marathoner or a leisurely walker, your muscles and joints may feel more fatigued from summer exercise. When the heat is on, your cells work overtime to produce energy. You can count on creatine and acetyl-L-carnitine for cellular energy support, and this two-punch formula can give your brain a boost, too!A well-known fitness booster, creatine supports muscle function, promotes cellular energy, and encourages exercise performance and recovery. Acetyl-L-carnitine has been clinically studied to encourage both mental and physical energy as well as cognitive function. This formula is available as a powder, making it easy to add to your favorite summer beverage.Here's a quick guide to seasonal supplements and how they support your well-being not only in the summer, but all year long: Life Extension This story was produced by Life Extension and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	MidAmerican Energy warns of company phone number scam MidAmerican Energy is telling customers to be cautious when using a search engine to find the company’s customer service phone number. Scammers are using paid search engine ads and other tactics to manipulate search results and promote fraudulent call center numbers for utilities, including MidAmerican. When customers call a fraudulent number, scammers pose as MidAmerican [...]
	MidAmerican advises caution online amid scammers MidAmerican Energy is advising customers to be careful using online search engines with fraudulent scammers seeking personal and financial information.
	Pilot injured after helicopter crash in Johnson County The Tiffin Fire Department says a helicopter pilot was taken to the hospital for injuries after a crash Wednesday night in Union Township.
	Mental health assessments: What employers should look for to secure the best outcomes Mental health assessments: What employers should look for to secure the best outcomesAn employee finally decides to ask for help. Maybe their work has slowed. Maybe they have been missing sleep. Maybe they have been holding it together for months and can feel that changing.For an HR or benefits leader, that moment matters. The first experience an employee has with a mental health benefit can determine whether they get routed to the right care, wait too long, disengage, or start over later.That is why a mental health assessment deserves more attention than it often gets in vendor evaluations. It is more than a questionnaire. Done well, it is the clinical and operational front door to the entire mental health journey, Spring Health reports.Key takeawaysA mental health assessment should connect employees to the right level of care, not just collect symptoms.Strong mental health assessment tools use validated screeners, dynamic branching, safety protocols, and ongoing measurement.For HR and benefits leaders, the most important question is what happens after the assessment: matching, navigation, care planning, and outcomes reporting.Well-executed assessments can reduce trial and error, help employees start care faster, and provide employers with aggregate insight into program performance.What is a mental health assessment?A mental health assessment is a structured way to understand a person's symptoms, goals, functioning, preferences, and level of need. It may include self-reported questions, validated screening tools, clinical interviews, or ongoing symptom measures used during care.In a workplace mental health benefit, the assessment has a practical job: to help each employee find the right next step. That next step may be therapy, coaching, medication management, self-guided support, specialty care, crisis support, social-needs resources, or help from a trained navigator.A strong assessment does not ask questions for their own sake. It uses the answers to guide care.Why mental health assessments matter for employersEmployers are not responsible for diagnosing employees. They can be responsible for offering a benefit that identifies needs safely, route employees appropriately, and show whether the program is working.That makes assessment quality a business issue as well as a clinical one. A weak assessment can create friction at the exact moment someone is ready to act. A stronger assessment can reduce trial and error, improve the first match, flag risk earlier, and measure progress over time.For benefits leaders, the question is not only whether a vendor offers a mental health assessment online. The better question is what happens after someone completes it.What mental health assessment questions should coverAssessment questions for mental health should help a care team understand both symptoms and context. A practical workplace assessment usually needs to cover:The person's goals for care, including what they want help with now.Current symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, eating concerns, attention, mood, sleep, stress, or other needs.How mental health is affecting work, home, relationships, and daily functioning.Safety signals, including suicide risk, with clear escalation protocols.Care preferences, such as appointment time, language, modality, provider specialty, cultural fit, and prior experience with care.Social needs that may affect mental health, including financial strain, housing, food, transportation, caregiving, or safety concerns.Progress over time, so care can adjust when symptoms improve, persist, or change.The best questions are clinically grounded, easy to complete, and connected to a clear action. Employees should not have to answer a long questionnaire and then still figure out care on their own.Common mental health assessment toolsMany mental health assessment tools are validated screeners that help identify symptoms or severity. They do not replace a clinician's judgment, but they can support earlier identification and better routing when used appropriately. Spring Health The value lies in using validated screeners intelligently, with dynamic branching that asks more when the member's answers suggest more support may be needed.What to look for in a mental health assessment onlineDigital access can make assessment easier, faster, and more private for employees. But an online form is not enough. HR leaders should evaluate whether the assessment is built into a care model that can act on the information it collects.1. Clinical validationAsk whether the assessment uses validated mental health assessment tools and whether those tools are appropriate for the population, geography, and care model. The assessment should screen for common needs without overclaiming a diagnosis.2. Dynamic branchingA strong assessment should adapt based on the member's answers.3. Safety protocolsIf an assessment asks about suicide risk or other high-acuity needs, the vendor must have clear clinical escalation pathways.4. Care routingThe assessment should inform the next step in care That can include therapy, coaching, medication management, crisis support, specialty programs, social-needs support, or navigator outreach.5. Personalization and matchingAssessment data should improve the care match. The goal is a lasting care relationship, not just the first open appointment.6. Ongoing measurementAssessment should continue during care. Measurement-based care helps providers and care teams see whether symptoms are improving and adjust the care plan when they are not.7. Reporting for employersEmployers should receive aggregate, de-identified insight into engagement, access, outcomes, and program opportunities through a reporting layer. They should not receive individual clinical details.8. Privacy and employee trustEmployees are more likely to complete an assessment when they understand how their information is used and protected. A vendor should explain what is confidential, what is aggregated, and how assessment data supports care.Spring Health's published outcomes show why that model matters.92% of members reliably improved or recovered from depression or anxiety.62% achieved remission from depression or anxiety.Members recover in 5.9 weeks, across 5.6 to 6.6 sessions.Navigation also affects action. In a published PLOS One study, care navigation was associated with 7.1 times higher odds of starting therapy, 36%more sessions attended, and added symptom improvement for the highest-severity members.Matching matters too. Members matched to an algorithm-recommended therapist improved up to 8.5% faster and recovered at higher rates than those who self-selected, at 11%-13% lower cost per improved member.5 questions when evaluating assessment qualityDoes the assessment use validated tools, and are they appropriate for the population being served?Does the assessment adapt based on answers, or does every employee receive the same static form?How does the solution handle suicide-risk responses and other high-acuity signals?What care pathways can the assessment route someone into?Does the assessment inform provider matching, navigator outreach, and care planning?FAQWhat is a mental health assessment?A mental health assessment is a structured way to understand symptoms, goals, functioning, preferences, and level of need. In a workplace benefit, it should help route employees to the right care, not simply produce a score.What are common mental health assessment tools?Common tools include PHQ-2 and PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-2 and GAD-7 for anxiety, C-SSRS for suicide-risk screening, and other validated screeners for trauma, substance use, eating concerns, attention, and mood.Can employees take a mental health assessment online?Yes. Many workplace mental health benefits begin with an online assessment. The assessment should be clinically grounded, easy to complete, connected to a care plan, and supported by appropriate privacy and safety protocols.What assessment questions for mental health should employers expect?Assessment questions should cover goals, current symptoms, functioning, safety signals, care preferences, social needs, and progress over time. HR should not see individual answers, but employers should receive aggregate, de-identified program insights.How do mental health assessments influence outcomes?Assessments influence outcomes when they guide matching, navigation, measurement, and care-plan adjustments. They help members start with the right level of support and give care teams the information needed to adapt care over time.This story was produced by Spring Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	AI notetakers have sat in on 1 in 3 US workers' meetings, but only a third say they were asked first AI notetakers have sat in on 1 in 3 US workers' meetings, but only a third say they were asked firstThe AI notetaker has quietly become a coworker. One in 3 employed Americans (33.4%) say an AI notetaker or transcription bot, tools like Otter.ai, Fireflies, Zoom AI Companion, or Microsoft Copilot, has been present in their work meetings, according to a July 2026 survey of 500 employed U.S. adults commissioned by Kolmogorov Law and conducted through the Pollfish research platform. Another 22.4% can't say whether they've been recorded or not, which is its own kind of finding.Recording First, Asking LaterWhat hasn't become routine is asking. Among the 167 workers whose meetings have included an AI notetaker, only 34.7% say they were always asked for permission before the tool recorded or transcribed. More than a third (36.5%) were asked only sometimes, 25.1% were never asked and simply saw the bot appear in the meeting, and 3.6% learned about the recording only afterward. Put together, 65.3% of exposed workers say consent was inconsistent or absent.The consent problem isn't limited to AI notetakers. Nearly 1 in 5 of all workers surveyed (18.8%) say they have discovered after the fact that a meeting or call had been recorded or transcribed without their knowledge, and 8% say it has happened more than once.The issue is already reaching the courts. A federal class action against Otter.ai alleges that meetings were recorded and transcribed without the consent of all participants in violation of California privacy law. Otter.ai denies the allegations, and the case remains pending.The 65% Knowledge GapMost workers have no idea that rules exist. According to the Kolmogorov Law survey, some states, including California, require every participant's consent before a conversation may be recorded; only 35% of workers said they already knew. Nearly 42% (41.8%) said they had no idea recording laws applied to work meetings at all, 11.6% believed one participant's consent was enough everywhere, and another 11.6% weren't sure. Sixty-five percent of the American workforce say they lack awareness of the consent requirements that can determine whether AI meeting recordings comply with applicable laws. This knowledge gap mirrors, almost exactly, the 64.4% of workers who don't know that pasting confidential data into a personal chatbot can be illegal.Ignorance of the law, however, does not translate into indifference once workers imagine the recording happening to them. Asked what they would do upon discovering that a company had repeatedly recorded their calls or meetings without consent, 29.2% would complain to the company or HR, 9.6% would stop attending, and only 14.2% would do nothing. The number that should concentrate minds in any general counsel's office: 19% would speak with a lawyer and a further 10% would join a class action if one existed, so a combined 29% of the workforce describes a secret recording as a lawyer-up event. For companies operating across multiple states, potential exposure can grow quickly. Privacy laws in some jurisdictions allow statutory damages for unauthorized recordings, meaning a single compliance failure repeated across many meetings could create substantial legal risk.The New Rule: Assume Nobody ConsentedThe data shows a growing concern. AI notetakers are becoming more common, but people are not always being asked for permission, workers don't understand the rules, and soon courts may determine what privacy laws mean for these tools. For companies deploying AI notetakers — and for the far larger number whose employees bring them uninvited — the survey suggests the safest assumption is the one California law already makes: Nobody on the call has consented until they are asked.MethodologyThis article is based on a survey of 500 employed U.S. adults age 18 and older, conducted July 8, 2026, through the Pollfish online research platform. Respondents were screened by Pollfish audience targeting to include only adults employed for wages (full- or part-time) or self-employed. The survey included two segmentation questions and eleven substantive questions covering workplace AI use, handling of confidential information in personal AI accounts, employer AI policies, awareness of applicable law, experiences with AI meeting notetakers, and recording-consent expectations, plus an attention-check question that 100% of the final sample answered correctly. Questions about consent in meetings where an AI notetaker was present were asked of the 167 respondents who reported such meetings; percentages for that subsample carry a wider margin of error of approximately plus or minus 7.6%. The margin of error for the full sample is approximately plus or minus 4.4% at a 95% confidence level.This story was produced by Kolmogorov Law and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	IowaWORKS will host eastern Iowa success fair in Davenport IowaWORKS will host the 2026 Eastern Iowa Success Fair to bring together employers, community organizations, and job seekers for one of the largest hiring events in the area , a news release says. The fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12, at NorthPark Mall, Davenport. The event is free [...]
	Youngest museum curator gains permanent space for Cambridge Natural History Museum The Cambridge Natural History Museum has purchased its downtown building, securing a permanent home for its growing collection and educational programs while planning repairs and future expansion.
	Buffalo, Iowa, man sentenced to 18 years in federal prison for meth trafficking A Buffalo man caught with 3.7 pounds of meth by Bettendorf police last year has been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to meth trafficking charges.
	IMEG, Rock Island, awards scholarships to engineering students IMEG, Rock Island, has awarded 30 scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year to students pursuing engineering degrees, reinforcing the firm's commitment to supporting the next generation of innovators and community builders. The scholarships were awarded to students in their sophomore through senior years of study. This year's recipients were selected from a record pool of [...]
	Five Quad-Cities residents sentenced to federal prison for fentanyl trafficking Five Quad-Cities residents have been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy that involved more than 26,000 pills and more than 400 grams of fentanyl.
	Trump wants to fence off the park closest to the White House, a popular protest spot The Trump administration wants to install permanent fencing around Lafayette Park, directly outside the White House. It's long been a popular spot for protesters, who worry barriers will change that.
	Zelenskyy fires Ukraine's tech-savvy defense minister in government reshuffle Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired the country's popular defense minister, who pushed for innovation in the battlefield through the use of drones and turned the tables on Russia.
	Street Stock Challenge up next for Davenport Speedway If the weather cooperates, racing will return to the Davenport Speedway on Friday, July 17. The racing program will feature the rescheduled AVS Hydro Excavating Street Stock Challenge. The Koehler Electric Street Stock drivers will compete for bonus money, as well as track points, trophy, and purse. Street Stock bonuses will be paid to the feature winner, [...]
	Hot weather sticks around several more days Wednesday ended up being the hottest day of 2026 with a high of 93°. We could be there a couple more days before some cooler weather returns. A few random showers are possible today with a better chance Friday. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Alabama state employees could see health benefit changes amid ‘difficult choices’ Stephanie Azar, CEO of the State Employees Insurance Board, speaking to the board at its quarterly meeting on July 15, 2026, in Montgomery, Alabama. The board may withdraw from the Retiree Trust Fund and change member benefits due to financial strain. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)The board overseeing health insurance for Alabama state employees will likely consider benefit changes and withdrawals from a trust fund amid financial uncertainty, rising health costs and “difficult choices,” its CEO said Wednesday. Changes could be presented to the State Employees Insurance Board (SEIB) in September, CEO Stephanie Azar said. “The board has been hearing for a long time that you’ll be faced with difficult decisions in the upcoming September meeting, and that’s true,” she said. “You’re going to have to be.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. SEIB, which has about 32,000 active members, and the Public Education Employee Insurance Plan (PEEHIP) board, which covers public school employees, have faced financial challenges in recent years. In 2025, SEIB changed member benefits, which included some increased deductibles and copays but no impact to premiums. The PEEHIP board in June approved a withdrawal of up to $200 million from its Retiree Trust Fund to prevent an increase in premiums after the Legislature did not fund its full request. The Legislature was able to fund SEIB’s fiscal year 2027 funding request, a $1,175 per member per month rate. It was a $150 per member per month increase from the FY26 state rate. The Legislature funded a $1,048 per member per month rate for PEEHIP, for about 104,000 active members. “Our benefit plan is extremely rich, and it’s a very affordable plan, and SEIB is going to do everything it can, working with this board, to ensure that that remains, even if there has to be some premium or other benefit changes,” Azar said. Even with the increased state rate for fiscal year 2027, which begins on Oct. 1, Azar projected SEIB will “be in the red” for that fiscal year based on the current health costs. “That’s not good at all because we don’t have a net. That’s a very, very scary place to be, and we’ve got to get this plan over the next several years not to be faced with this problem unless we’re just knocked out of our feet, as we are often with things we can’t control,” she said. David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement System of Alabama, which oversees the boards, warned members not to “push the panic button early” because there will be a new administration and new legislators to work with in 2027. “What you have to remember is that a new politician coming in don’t give a hoot about the commitment to you, or to me, or the pensions, because they got elected doing what? ‘How do I promise you something?’” Bronner said. “New legislators have no commitments to old programs.” He gave similar warnings to the PEEHIP board in June. “Ask the new elected people. Ask the ones that don’t even have opposition. Do you support pensions and do you support healthcare? If the answer is no, get ready for a rough ride, and it’ll be a rough ride. I swear to God,” he said. “Keep in mind that the next administration won’t give a damn about what we submit this year.” Azar said in an interview after the meeting that there is a good chance the board will request another rate increase for FY28, but there’s no way to know how much the increase will be. “The main thing that’s really causing the revenue and expenditure difference is the healthcare inflation and uncontrollable cost, really,” she said. “It’s hard to keep everything in line to beat that call. It’s not really an Alabama problem; it’s a national problem.” Courtesy of Alabama Reflector
	RockIslandSpeak This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Consider this an advanced warning should you decide to invite a Rock Islander into your home for dinner. Like most…
	10 photographers share favorite moments from the Tiny Desk Contest Tour Ten photographers share their favorite memories from the 2026 Tiny Desk Contest On The Road tour, which was headlined by this year's winner, the Dallas hip-hop group Cure for Paranoia.
	Oil companies are making billions. In the U.S., calls to tax their windfall are growing Higher oil prices since the Iran war began mean many oil companies have brought in excess profits. Some U.S. lawmakers want to tax those windfall profits and give the money to lower-income Americans.
	Trump earned billions last year. Some Pennsylvania swing voters say they don't care Key voters in Pennsylvania are split on whether President Trump earning a big windfall last year is a big deal or not. Their reaction reveals a level of cynicism about many in the political class.
	No Asian team managed to go far this World Cup (again). What's holding them back? For the sixth World Cup in a row, no team from the Asian Football Confederation made it past the first knockout round, winning only three games out of 29. Asian teams are competitive — up to a point.
	Four states linked to cyclosporiasis outbreak, CDC warns more could be involved The cause remains under investigation.
	The band playing when a Bangkok bar caught fire mourns its members among the 33 dead Victims of this week's flash fire at a Bangkok music bar that took more than 30 lives included four of the six core members of the band playing when the blaze broke out.
Wednesday, July 15th, 2026
	Tiny Desk Radio: Air, Igor Levit, Fito Páez With the buzz of the final in the air, we celebrate the beautiful game with music from countries that have won the World Cup in recent years. Look for Tiny Desk Radio on your local NPR station.
	Clinton planning commission tables vote on data center ordinance The debate comes as a proposed data center could take up over 1,100 acres west of town.
	Children's Therapy Center of the QC helps 8-year-old Pearl learn to ride a bike Eight-year-old Pearl is not letting her disabilities hold her back. Thanks to one area organization, she and her siblings soon will be able to go on a bike ride together - and Pearl won't need training wheels. Pearl, who has occupational therapy at the Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities, experiences numbness in her [...]
	Clinton commission delays vote on data center ordinance, takes public suggestions Members of the public spoke for about two-and-a-half hours at the Clinton Plan Commission meeting on Wednesday.
	Clinton data center ordinance goes back to drawing board An ordinance that could set the rules for data centers in Clinton will not go to city council.At least not yet. That came out of a special meeting tonight of the city's planning commission, where dozens of people expressed opposition. City employees will now make changes to the proposed rules. "I think the staff's position [...]
	Large water main break in Rock Island causes water pressure loss to residents, businesses Crews are at the scene of a large water main break in Rock Island.
	New Illinois laws to help military veterans Illinois' governor, JB Pritzker, signed new bills to help military veterans adjust to life after service. Service Member Education Rights Veneration (SERVE) Act (Senate Bill 3737) requires Illinois universities to readmit students who take academic leave for military service. The Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program (Senate Bill 3818) adds more incentives to get more people to [...]
	Bettendorf School District to pay former superintendent over $700k The Bettendorf Community School District will pay former superintendent Michelle Morse over $700,000 as part of her settlement agreement.
	Rock Island water-main break affects residents south of 25th Avenue A water main break Wednesday night at 30th Street and 31st Avenue in Rock Island has resulted in a boil order, according to a spokesperson for the City of Rock Island. Shortly before 9 p.m., Our Quad Cities News crew saw 31st Avenue closed between 30th Street and Eugene Field Elementary School. Mud and debris [...]
	Crews working to fix large water main break in Rock Island, boil order in effect Crews are at the scene of a large water main break in Rock Island.
	Affordable senior housing development receives federal tax credits The Illinois Housing Development Authority gave the development, Burlington Terrace, federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, according to a media release.
	After years of disputes, CGH Medical Center employees ratify first union contract Employees unionized in 2021 and had been engaged in contract negotiations with hospital management for years.
	KWQC to host Bix 7 livestream KWQC will host a special livestream to celebrate and get the Quad Cities ready for the Bix 7 Road Race.
	After the Hacienda Healthcare rape, Arizona built a group home watchdog. Now it’s being defunded. (Photo via iStock/Getty Images Plus)An independent oversight program created in response to a horrific rape, meant to protect some of Arizona’s most vulnerable people, will cease at the end of this year unless it finds a new funding source, a casualty of Arizona’s newest bipartisan state budget. In 2018, a 29-year-old woman who had developmental disabilities and could not walk or talk gave birth in her bed at Hacienda Healthcare, a residential care facility in Phoenix. Her caregivers had no idea she was pregnant. The woman was raped by nurse Nathan Sutherland, who later pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a disabled person and abusing a vulnerable adult, after investigators found that his DNA matched the baby’s. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison. In response to outrage over the crime, then-Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, created a task force to recommend ways to increase protections for people served by the state’s Division of Developmental Disabilities who live in facilities and group homes. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. One of the task force’s recommendations was the creation of the Compliance, Oversight, Monitoring, and Investigations Team, operated by the advocacy organization Disability Rights Arizona. Created as a pilot program in 2022, COMIT provides independent oversight of group homes that care for people who have both developmental disabilities and mental illnesses. The Republicans who control the Arizona Legislature and Arizona’s Democratic governor chose last year to make COMIT a permanent program. This year, without explanation, they all agreed to completely defund it. Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen, Arizona House of Representative Speaker Steve Montenegro and Gov. Katie Hobbs all declined to speak to the Arizona Mirror about why COMIT was put on the chopping block. COMIT’s $1.2 million annual budget is a tiny fraction of the $18.3 billion state budget passed in June, which included cuts to many state departments and programs to pay for the $1.4 billion in Trump tax cuts that both Republicans and Hobbs celebrated. During a June 10 Joint Appropriations Committee hearing, Amber Brown, whose 22-year-old son has severe autism, warned lawmakers of the consequences of decreased oversight. She said that her son became aggressive after being assaulted by school paraprofessionals when he was 12 years old. He endured more neglect and abuse in state-run group homes after that, Brown said. “Here’s what nobody in this building wants to say out loud: Vulnerable people attract predators,” she said. “And when you strip away oversight, you’re not cutting a line item. You’re leaving the door open.” Brown called the decision “penny-wise and pound-foolish” and said it would end with the state spending much more on crisis control when another crime like the one at Hacienda Healthcare happens again. In 2025, COMIT looked into the daily living environments, diets and person-centered care plans of 154 group home residents living in homes run by 63 vendors. The program’s 10 employees interview the residents of the group home, as well as the person’s guardians and the group home staff, to ensure they are safe and not experiencing abuse or neglect. They also do a walkthrough of the group home. J.J. Rico, CEO of Disability Rights Arizona, told the Mirror that the program is dedicated to taking an in-depth look at the daily lives of the people who live in group homes and to ensure they’re receiving the care they’re entitled to. “It’s a very extensive monitoring tool that we do, much more than I believe the state does,” Rico said. Rico and the rest of the COMIT team only found out that funding for the program was definitely off the table hours before the budget passed, he said. COMIT is completely state-funded and will cease operations at the end of 2026 if it doesn’t secure another funding source. Rico said that COMIT had worked over the three-year pilot program to show that it was necessary, and that the team was excited when Hobbs and lawmakers made it permanent last year. “Then, less than one year later, getting notice that we weren’t funded — it’s disappointing,” he said. In 2025, COMIT identified numerous issues at the group homes it monitors, including that 81% of clients were not receiving all of the services they were supposed to receive, problems with record-keeping and staff that lacked necessary skills to do their jobs. “Direct care staff often could not demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to meet the needs of clients with complex needs to ensure their health and safety,” COMIT wrote in its 2025 report. It attributed workers’ inability to answer questions about a resident’s care plan or goals and behaviors to high rates of staff turnover and lack of training. COMIT also investigates quality of care complaints about group homes submitted to the Division of Developmental Disabilities. In 2025 it completed investigations of 21 of those complaints, and found that 12 of them were substantiated. In the process of investigating those complaints, it identified 57 additional quality of care problems that investigators said violated state law or DDD standards. That included 13 substantiated cases of abuse or neglect — and two unexpected deaths that were either caused by an aspect of the person’s treatment in a group home, or could have been caused by it. Although DDD already investigates all quality of care complaints it receives, COMIT found its processes to be lacking. “COMIT has identified numerous investigations closed by DDD as unsubstantiated that warrant more comprehensive follow-up to ensure member safety and prevent incidents of abuse, neglect, and death,” the program’s 2025 report reads. And COMIT also found that group homes that were out of compliance did not face meaningful accountability. “The lack of enforcement allows unsafe practices to persist across the system, contributing to ongoing patterns of abuse, neglect, and an observable increase in high-severity incidents, including death,” COMIT wrote in its report. While Hobbs spokesman Christian Slater didn’t answer specific questions about why COMIT’s funding was eliminated, he told the Mirror in a statement that Hobbs will work with the Department of Economic Security, which oversees DDD, “to ensure that the program has the necessary oversight in the coming years.” Last year, COMIT investigators identified what they called systemic concerns with DDD’s investigations, calling into question the quality of that oversight. “COMIT found that reviews often relied on surface-level determinations and lack the comprehensive fact-gathering needed to fully assess Quality of Care allegations,” COMIT wrote in its report. “DDD does not routinely obtain police reports, witness statements, or other third-party records, limiting the ability to evaluate incidents accurately.” Zane Garcia Ramadan, assistant director of the Department of Economic Security, agreed with some of COMIT’s findings, and said that DDD would take action to correct those problems, including the creation of a quality assurance team to address documentation and training problems at group homes. But Ramadan also disagreed with some of the findings and pointed out in his response that DDD’s internal investigation unit oversees 1,400 residential homes, while COMIT monitors a small fraction of those. Ramadan pointed out that some of COMIT’s findings were due to a misalignment in evaluation standards between the two entities and misunderstanding of what state law requires. Some of COMIT’s most alarming findings included a current group home employee who was on DDD’s “no contact” list because of past findings of abuse, and another employee who worked with disabled children who had an active arrest warrant. “A substantial volume of (quality of care) complaints describe staff sleeping on shift, failing to supervise members, refusing to cook, lacking basic caregiving skills, and demonstrating poor judgment,” COMIT wrote. Rico said that he reached out to the Governor’s Office multiple times to request a meeting about the future of COMIT and its funding, but he never received a response. Slater did not answer the Mirror’s question about the governor’s failure to respond to Rico’s requests. “The governor is proud of the balanced budget agreement she negotiated with bipartisan legislators,” Slater said in his statement. “It includes investments in healthcare, education and water security. No party got everything that they wanted, but it’s a strong deal that will make Arizona stronger, safer and more prosperous.” Without COMIT’s independent oversight, Rico said he worries that instances of abuse and neglect could increase. “I hope I’m wrong about that, but that’s a fear,” he said. Rico has already informed his employees that they will be out of a job at the end of the year if COMIT is unable to secure another funding source. He said he plans to attempt to convince the governor and legislature to fund the program in next year’s budget, but if COMIT shuts down in the meantime, it will take time to hire new staff and train them. “If we put ourselves in any of our staff’s shoes, they probably will have another job, and might not be looking to come back or have moved on,” he said. “So, there are no guarantees that that staff will be available if funding’s secured down the road. And they’re great staff.” Rico is urging community members who feel that COMIT’s work is valuable to reach out to their legislators and tell them. “If there’s anybody out there that would like to contribute or see that the program continue, we’re open to any sources of funding at this point,” he said “We want to maintain this program as long as possible.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Arizona Mirror
	5 people sentenced in federal court for distributing pills with fentanyl in the Quad Cities Between April 2022 and March 2024, the five individuals coordinated to distribute over 26,000 pills containing fentanyl, the court said.
	What would permanent daylight saving time look like in Iowa and Illinois? The U.S. is one step closer to locking the clocks.
	Quad City Symphony, St. Ambrose University partner to propose new $24 million performing arts center Leaders with St. Ambrose University and the Quad City Symphony Orchestra are partnering to propose plans to build a new $24 million performing arts center in downtown Davenport.
	National Hot Dog and Sausage Council: Is a hot dog a sandwich? National Hot Dog Day is upon us once again.
	In East Idaho, a vaccinated adult contracted measles near outbreak area in Wyoming A University of Utah health clinic with a sign warning of measles is pictured in Salt Lake City on June 30, 2025. (McKenzie Romero/Utah News Dispatch)In East Idaho, health officials are reporting that a vaccinated adult contracted measles in Teton County, near a Wyoming travel destination area that’s under an active measles outbreak. The case marks Idaho’s 10th case of measles this year. That puts Idaho — like the rest of the U.S. — on track to outpace the state’s total case counts from last year, when the state reported 13 cases amid the U.S.’s worst outbreak of measles in decades. Health Department declares measles outbreak in Wyoming’s Teton County amid influx of tourists The local health authority, Eastern Idaho Public Health, announced the latest case Wednesday afternoon, which is the first case recorded this year in Teton County, a rural area along the Wyoming border. The regional health officials say that the public may have been exposed to measles more than a week ago at the Broulim’s grocery store in Driggs between 5:15 p.m. and 6 p.m. July 6. Officials say they are in contact with “individuals known to be exposed, and will continue to monitor the situation.” The eastern Idahoan who contracted measles, officials say, was in “close contact with a known case during their infectious period.” People fully vaccinated against measles rarely contract the virus. Just 4% of Americans infected with measles last year reported that they completed their full two-dose regiment of the vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Vaccination is the best defense against measles for both children and adults,” the health district’s Health Strategy Manager Jordan McAdam said in a written statement. “While a small percentage of vaccinated people [approximately two to three percent] may still contract the virus, high vaccination coverage provides strong individual protection and helps limit the spread of measles within the community.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. What to know about measles Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles, which is highly contagious and usually leads to hospitalization for one in five children younger than 5 years old who are infected. Idaho has the lowest rate of kindergartners — nearly four out of every five — who are reportedly up to date on their measles vaccine, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. Measles is highly contagious but rare. Up to 90% of non-immune people in contact with an infected person can become infected. The virus can live in the air up to two hours after someone infected leaves. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash, the CDC says. While many recover without problems, measles can lead to serious complications, especially in very young children and people with weakened immune systems. The virus’s serious complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) and, in rare cases, death. People with measles symptoms should not enter health care settings without calling ahead, and they should contact their health care providers. People exposed to measles should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. There is no antiviral treatment for measles, according to the CDC. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Idaho Capital Sun
	KWQC to host special livestream WQC will host a special livestream to celebrate and get everyone ready for the Bix 7 Road Race.
	Data center concerns dominate public comment for new legislative committee The meeting room for a new legislative committee to study artificial intelligence and data centers was standing room only on July 15, 2026. More than 70 members of the public were in attendance. (Photo by Jacob Orledge/North Dakota Monitor)More than 70 members of the public filled every seat and stood shoulder to shoulder on the side of the room Wednesday as a new North Dakota legislative committee held its first meeting focused on artificial intelligence and data centers. Linda Hagen Mathern, a Bismarck citizen concerned about data centers, told lawmakers there were many more people who peeked into the room or left after a few minutes because there wasn’t enough space. “When there’s something very upsetting to the people, there’s never enough room, and I don’t understand,” she said. “You’re elected by us, and yet when we want to share our thoughts, there’s never enough room.” From States Newsroom: Reporting on data centers from around the country Rep. Jonathan Warrey, R-Casselton, chair of the committee, was aware of the interest and announced that written testimony will be accepted. That typically is not the case for interim committees. The written submissions will be linked in the meeting minutes. The lion’s share of the public comment provided over the course of 50 minutes focused on concerns with data centers being constructed in North Dakota. Multiple speakers told the committee they do not feel their voices are being heard when a data center is developed in their area. Holly Burch of Mandan is a member of a planning and zoning subcommittee looking at data center regulations in Morton County. She said she’s concerned about the rapid pace of development and the growing electric demand of the facilities in North Dakota. “I think that we just need to slow down on this a little bit,” Burch said. Holly Burch testifies to lawmakers about her concerns with the pace data center development on July 15, 2026. (Photo by Jacob Orledge/North Dakota Monitor) Rep. Bill Tveit, R-Hazen, said local jurisdictions should consider a nine-month moratorium until the full Legislature can meet and make any necessary changes to state law. “That way the entire state, the entire committee, the entire Legislature can interact on the concerns that are out there,” said Tveit, who is not on the committee. “This should have been done two years ago, but we didn’t know the impact that was coming upon us.” Earlier this week, New York implemented a statewide moratorium on the development of data centers requiring 50 megawatts or more of electricity. Local communities in North Dakota have access to a model ordinance, developed by a coalition of organizations including the League of Cities, Association of Counties and business groups, to use when considering regulations of data centers. “I’m not saying that this is the be-all end-all and that they can’t change it or make things more stringent, less stringent,” said Stephanie Dassinger Engebretson, deputy director of the League of Cities. “But this provides them a tool so that they have something in writing to work with.” New York governor orders first statewide data center moratorium Dassinger Engebretson said the ordinance should be used as a baseline but needs to be customized for each community. The public was not invited to participate in the drafting process because it was assumed their input would be incorporated in each community’s process, she said. That didn’t sit well with everyone in the audience. Lucas Wald of Edgeley said there is “a complete disconnect” between residents’ opinions and what they hear from people in government and business. “Local people should be writing these ordinances,” Wald said. “You’ve got these people writing up these ordinances to give to us that don’t align with anything we want.” Andrea Pfennig, vice president of government affairs for the Greater North Dakota Chamber of Commerce, touted the economic benefits of data centers. She said data centers paid more than $700 billion in taxes between 2017 and 2023 in the United States, and employed 600,000 people in 2023. “We think that this is a really good opportunity for communities across our state,” Pfennig said. Some speakers said they were concerned that artificial intelligence would cause economic harm by eliminating jobs in the economy. But Hagen Mathern said she has concerns about threats data centers may pose to the health of local children, wildlife and crops. “There’s more involved than just economics,” she said. Rep. Jonathan Warrey, R-Casselton, is the chair of the new legislative committee focused on artificial intelligence and data centers. The committee held its first meeting on July 15, 2026. (Photo by Jacob Orledge/North Dakota Monitor) The committee will hold additional meetings between now and the end of October. It has been tasked with studying the economic, state and local interests in the siting of data centers, as well as the broader development of data centers. It has also been directed to study artificial intelligence. “I know that’s a red hot topic across North Dakota and other jurisdictions,” said Sen. David Hogue, chair of Legislative Management who issued the directive creating the committee. “That’s a small part of your portfolio, but it’s something we have to look at.” North Dakota officials say data center concerns fueled by misinformation Warrey said Wednesday’s meeting was the start of that process. The next meeting is Aug. 13. The location has not been set. Written testimony can be submitted to edohm@ndlegis.gov. If the testimony is received more than a week after a committee meeting, it will be included in the minutes of the next meeting instead. Warrey said he expects the committee to meet five times in total, three times in Bismarck and two field trips to other communities. “This is just the beginning,” Warrey said. North Dakota Monitor reporter Jacob Orledge can be reached at jorledge@northdakotamonitor.com. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of North Dakota Monitor
	2026 Rock Island Grand Prix canceled Officials said they hope to bring the street race back in 2027.
	Read the settlement agreement between Bettendorf schools and Michelle Morse Former superintendent Michelle Morse will be paid more than $700,000 by the Bettendorf Community School District, per a settlement agreement. Read it here:
	Read the contract for Bettendorf Community School District's interim superintendent John Elkin will be the interim superintendent for Bettendorf Community School District with an annual salary of $218,000. Read the agreement here.
	Muscatine begins designing downtown stabilization plan as evacuated residents, businesses continue waiting Muscatine leaders said engineers are designing a plan to stabilize evacuated downtown buildings on East 2nd Street, with more details expected in the coming weeks.
	Quad Cities Latino Cinema Series debuts with films, fundraising and cultural celebration The inaugural series will feature a film each month from now through October. All of the ticket proceeds will go toward four different Quad Cities nonprofits.
	Iowa Medicaid Fraud Elimination Task Force holds first meeting A new state task force focused on Medicaid fraud held its first meeting Wednesday, as federal prosecutors have already charged nearly 300 people across the country in related cases.
	MercyOne launches air ambulance service in Clinton MercyOne officials cut the ribbon on a new air ambulance service Wednesday morning, marking the launch of Air Med 4 in Clinton.
	Rock Island Grand Prix canceled for 2026 Officials said they hope to bring the street race back in 2027.
	Muscatine city leaders address structural issues in downtown buildings Muscatine city leaders are looking ahead after several downtown buildings closed due to structural concerns. The mayor, city administrator and police chief talked through those structural issues that left the 200 block of E. 2nd St. empty and where they can go next. "Every action the city has taken, has been with safety of the [...]
	MercyOne Clinton debuts new Air Med helicopter service MercyOne Clinton debuted its new helicopter service Air Med services are now available from MercyOne Clinton Medical Center. Additionally, a new patient transportation shuttle service designed to enhance access to care throughout the region has been launched. According to a release from MercyOne: The addition of Air Med 4 strengthens emergency response capabilities for Clinton [...]
	17 people, $7.1M: Scott County weighs new plan to break the crisis cycle The Scott County Board of Supervisors consider Assisted Outpatient Therapy for people who cycle through jail, homelessness and hospital stays
	Advocates, elected officials call for statewide siren system after tornadoes touch down near NOLA Advocates pray before a press conference calling for the installation of a siren system for tornadoes and other emergencies at on July 15, 2026. Credit: Christiana Botic/Verite News and Catchlight Local/Report for AmericaNew Orleans officials joined a coalition of community-based organizations to call for the installation of emergency siren systems across the state weeks after 14 tornadoes touched down in the greater New Orleans area from Tropical Storm Arthur. The coalition, Louisiana Grassroots United, also asked for more tornado education as research suggests Tornado Alley — historically stretching across the Great Plains region — has shifted farther eastward than it has historically to now include Louisiana. The advocates and elected officials said while residents understand hurricanes, there’s a gap in knowledge when it comes to tornado safety. “ At least a hurricane, you kinda have a heads up that it’s on the way and it may be powerful, but a tornado is something altogether different,” said Debra Campbell, president of A Community Voice, a statewide grassroots nonprofit based in New Orleans. Campbell and A Community Voice have pushed for siren systems in southeast Louisiana, alongside other groups, since 2022 to alert residents of emergencies, from tornadoes to flash flooding to chemical releases. Debra Campbell of A Community Voice listens during a press conference calling for the installation of a siren system for tornadoes and other emergencies on July 15, 2026. Credit: Christiana Botic/Verite News and Catchlight Local/Report for America New Orleans Councilmember-at-large Matthew Willard was part of the task force that first recommended sirens to the state about four years ago, when he served in the state house. During Wednesday’s (July 15) news conference, Willard said alerts sent through phones are limited in reach and efficacy. He lived near the trail of one of the tornadoes that touched down on June 23, and he said he didn’t receive an emergency notification until 15 to 20 minutes after the tornado passed. “ I heard it, and it was very scary, and I got the alert on my phone a few minutes later. So we have to do more,” Willard said. Campbell said some people lack access to technology, don’t sign up for alerts or live with disabilities that make it harder to use such technology. She believed sirens would reach residents more effectively. Willard said he plans to ask the local and state Offices of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to collaborate to find money for a siren system in New Orleans once they receive a cost estimate. Councilmember-at-large Matthew Willard speaks at a press conference calling for the installation of a siren system for tornadoes and other emergencies on July 15, 2026. Credit: Christiana Botic/Verite News and Catchlight Local/Report for America In 2025, Verite News found that some companies charge $30,000 to $50,000 per siren. Councilmember Aimee McCarron, who chairs the council’s Climate and Sustainability Committee, said she will bring the discussion to her committee and explore funding options as well. “ As climate changes, the weather patterns get more disruptive, leaving us all vulnerable to new threats,” said McCarron. “Our emergency preparedness plans should reflect this reality.” The links between tornadoes and climate change are still being studied, but evidence suggests there could be the potential for more tornadoes outside of the traditional season for severe weather. Regardless of the cause, the data suggests the number of large tornado outbreaks and tornadoes per day have increased since 1950. Many of the tornadoes that have occurred in the New Orleans area in recent years have occurred while it’s still dark, making them more likely to be deadly. People survey damage on a street in Aribi after a tornado struck Southeast Louisiana on Dec. 14 2022. Credit: Christiana Botic Campbell called for the city to consider public education campaigns such as inserts in utility bills to teach residents the difference between tornado watches and warnings, as well as where to go in their homes to stay safe. Many New Orleans homes aren’t equipped for tornadoes due to the prevalence of windows and lack of a basement. Advocates in other parishes have spoken to their state and local representatives. Tish Taylor, program manager for the environmental group Concerned Citizens of St. John, said the sirens also could help warn her parish when dangerous flash flooding occurs. “ Every one of our communities should have alerts. It shouldn’t be specific to anyone when we are all inundated with this extreme weather. And it’s not gonna stop, it’s only gonna get worse,” Taylor said at the news conference. This article first appeared on Verite News New Orleans and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. PARSELY = { autotrack: false, onload: function() { PARSELY.beacon.trackPageView({ url: "https://veritenews.org/2026/07/15/advocates-elected-officials-call-for-statewide-siren-system-after-14-tornadoes-touch-down-near-new-orleans/", urlref: window.location.href }); } } Courtesy of Louisiana Illuminator
	Bettendorf schools to pay more than $700,000 to former superintendent Former Bettendorf superintendent Michelle Morse will be compensated over $700,000 as part of a settlement agreement in her departure from the district.
	National Pet Fire Safety Day On Wednesday, July 15, National Pet Fire Safety Day, the Muscatine Fire Department encourages residents to take simple steps that protect their four‑legged family members long before an emergency happens, a news release says. The message is straightforward: Planning for pets is planning for family. The American Humane Society reports that more than 500,000 pets [...]
	Iowa dentist fined $2,000 for unsanitary conditions in his practice (Photo by Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)A dentist who has practiced in Iowa for less than two years has been cited for unsanitary conditions in his practice. Harry Nguyen of West Des Moines was recently charged by the Iowa Dental Board with failure to maintain adequate safety and sanitary conditions for a dental office, and with failure to comply with standard precautions for preventing and controlling infectious diseases. According to the board, Nguyen, who was first licensed to practice in Iowa in July 2024, was the focus of a complaint received by the board alleging “several areas of concern” related to his practice. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. After an investigation was completed, the board found infection-control deficiencies involving a lack of biohazard markings on containers, a lack of covers for dirty instruments being transported from the operating room, incomplete records related to spore testing, and dental assistants and hygienists who were cleaning the rooms without the required certification or supervision. The board has not disclosed the name of the West Des Moines clinic where Nguyen worked or stated when the complaint was filed or when the investigation took place. Board records indicate the investigation may have been initiated sometime in 2025. As part of a recent settlement with the board, Nguyen agreed to pay a $2,000 civil penalty and complete a comprehensive remedial education program focused on infection control procedures and ethics. The Iowa Capital Dispatch was not able to reach Nguyen for comment. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	New housing development aims to help homeless people in Davenport New Housing Development aiming at assisting homeless people coming to Davenport.
	5 people get federal prison time for conspiring to distribute over 26,000 fentanyl pills, court documents say Five people have been sentenced to federal prison on charges related to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
	RI federal judge denies Trump’s emergency stay request in asylum application freeze case The exterior of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office in Johnston. (Photo by Christopher Shea/Rhode Island Current)A Rhode Island federal judge on Wednesday left intact his ruling from last month blocking the Trump administration’s freeze on processing asylum applications from nearly 40 countries. Chief U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell Jr. denied U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) request to put his June 5 order on hold while the case is appealed, writing that administration officials “did not offer a persuasive reason” to disturb the ruling and undercut it through their own affidavit. The Trump administration had argued that the judge’s decision hampers national security screening. Those comments mirrored the skepticism McConnell expressed during the nearly hour-long hearing before issuing his order in the lawsuit led by two Providence-based nonprofits, Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island and Refugee Dream Center. “It’s been a month since the court ruled,” McConnell told Tyler Becker, an attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice’s civil division. “If national security were so at stake, why didn’t you ask me to stop the implementation immediately?” Instead, Citizenship and Immigration Services waited until June 19 to file its motion for an emergency stay. The filing included an affidavit from the agency’s Deputy Director Angelica Alfonso-Royals claiming that immigration cases now have to be adjudicated “without the benefit of review through maximum vetting.” “As a result, USCIS may miss critical national security, public safety, or integrity concerns that put the American people and the lawful immigration system at risk,” Alfonso-Royals wrote. To support that claim, the affidavit included a list of 10 countries said to have “little to no credible identity management infrastructure.” But three of those examples — Ethiopia, Liberia and Pakistan — are not covered by the travel ban. “The evidence before the court is that the choosing of these 39 countries that the government is stopping people from seeking legal positions in this country is totally arbitrary and capricious,” McConnell said. Federal authorities suspended immigration work permits and related benefits last November following a Washington, D.C., shooting in which an Afghan national killed one National Guard member and wounded another. In March, a coalition of nonprofit organizations and labor unions that represent and serve immigrant communities filed a complaint, claiming the Trump administration’s actions violated the Administrative Procedure Act, the Immigration and Nationality Act, and the U.S. Constitution’s right to due process. McConnell had determined that the USCIS policies violated the very immigration laws that Congress has charged it with administering, which he repeated during Wednesday’s hearing. “Congress decided that that was inappropriate — that making immigration decisions based on national origin goes against American values,” McConnell said. “It’s like a bedrock principle.” McConnell found the plaintiff groups and their clients did face irreparable harm, writing that countless immigrants living in the United States lost their jobs, legal status, and ability to plan for their futures as a result of the Trump administration’s policies. “Quite tellingly, the government has little about these harms and provides no evidence to the contrary,” he wrote. Plaintiff organizations say their immigrant clients have seen meaningful relief since the policies were vacated. Ryan Cooper, a senior counsel with Democracy Forward, noted that two Haitian clients for Dorcas International recently received word that they are scheduled to take the oath of citizenship within the next week inside Rhode Island’s federal courthouse in the very room where the motion hearing was being held. “These individuals were originally scheduled to become U.S. citizens all the way back in December of 2025, but their ceremonies were canceled and their lives were put on hold as a result of the policies challenged in this litigation,” Cooper noted. Another client from Nigeria finally had their application for DACA renewal granted and Afghan national was able to get their travel paperwork, he added. “None of this would have been possible without the court’s order declaring the policies at issue in this litigation unlawful,” Cooper said. The plaintiff coalition celebrated McConnell’s ruling in a statement issued after 5 p.m. “We are relieved that this decision ensures that the court’s ruling remains in effect while this case moves forward on appeal,” they said. “The court has already recognized that these policies are unlawful and cannot continue to keep families, workers, asylum seekers, and communities in legal limbo simply because of where they were born.” Spokespeople for USCIS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which oversees Citizenship and Immigration Services, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Rhode Island Current
	Quad City Symphony, St. Ambrose propose $24M music center The center would be built on the former YMCA property in downtown Davenport near the Centennial Bridge.
	Learn about the inaugural Quad Cities Latino Cinema Series Through October, there are four chances to check out iconic Latino films at The Last Picture House. Ticket sale proceeds will benefit local Hispanic nonprofits.
	Eldridge's Countryside Community Theatre putting on 'Mean Girls' Actors Ryan Latcher and Micha Roldan joined The Current to discuss Countryside's final performance of the season!
	Muscatine officials outline next steps for downtown stabilization Muscatine city leaders are sharing new details about plans to stabilize a downtown block weeks after structural concerns forced the evacuation of several buildings.
	How you can experience "The Odyssey" on 35mm in the QCA It's an epic retelling of Odysseus as he embarks on a long and perilous journey home following the Trojan War, and you can see it in a special format right here in the QCA. Carlie Allison joined Our Quad Cities News with details on how you can see "The Odyssey" on 35mm at The Last [...]
	Davenport man to spend 18 years in prison on methamphetamine charges A Davenport man will spend 18 years in federal prison on methamphetamine charges.
	Xtream Rock Island Grand Prix cancelled for 2026 The annual event was supposed to be held Labor Day Weekend in Rock Island.
	Health benefit premiums for NJ school workers expected to rise by 34% New Jersey's beleaguered health plan for school workers faces another year of double-digit increases, the latest in a series. (Photo courtesy of the New Jersey Governor's Office)Active school workers’ health insurance premiums on a beleaguered state-run plan should rise by 34% in 2027, state actuaries told the School Employees Health Benefits Commission on Wednesday. The steep increase follows years of similar rises that have put the School Employees Health Benefits Program on the path to collapse as high costs push healthier workers to cheaper private options in a vicious cycle that pushes costs higher still. “Public schools and public school employees cannot continue absorbing annual increases of this magnitude without consequences,” New Jersey Education Association President Steve Beatty, Vice President Petal Robertson, and Secretary-Treasurer Tina Dare said in a joint statement. Early retirees’ premiums should increase by 11%, actuaries told the commission, while Medicare retirees’ rates should rise by 6%. The increases are largely meant to keep active school workers’ plan solvent, whether by rebuilding the program’s depleted reserves or by drawing enough funds to repay loans it’s expected to take to fund health claims this year. Gov. Mikie Sherrill last month signed legislation that would allow active workers’ plan to take loans from the plan that serves retired school workers if the former plan’s reserves fall beneath the level needed to cover 10 days of claims. The plan for active workers is expected to borrow $78 million to cover health claims in 2026, according to Treasury projections, and that loan must be repaid by premiums collected the following year. The plan’s claims stabilization reserve — its surplus — is expected to finish 2026 with a negative balance of $56 million. The increases unveiled Wednesday for 2027 seek to build reserves up to equal one month of claims, rather than the two months targeted in past years. Premiums for active workers would have risen 40% if the target were two months, Aon, the state’s actuary, said in its analysis. School districts’ ability to freely move between the public plan and options in the private market continued to contribute to the increases, said Joe Tappe, a vice president for Aon. For years, school districts have fled the public plan as costs rose, leaving behind districts with older, sicker workers who are more costly to insure. Those departures push rates up alongside risk, prompting more departures that start the cycle anew. “The employers who are generally able to find lower cost coverage outside the SEHBP, they tend to have lower costs, and when they leave, it leaves behind a pool of experience that is higher cost than what was in there previously,” Tappe said. The public plan for school workers paid 88% more per employee than plans on New Jersey’s health insurance marketplace, Tappe said, partly because the public plans offered significantly more generous benefits, had older workers on average, and typically covered more dependents. Actuaries last week unveiled their rate recommendations for the public health plans used by state and local government workers. Those workers premiums should also rise by double-digits, the actuaries said, though their proposed increases are smaller. The State Health Benefits Commission and its schools counterpart will hold their next rate renewal meetings on July 27. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of New Jersey Monitor
	Argentina is back in the World Cup final after a thrilling semifinal win over England Argentina survived another heart-stopping match when it scored two late goals to topple England and extend the Three Lions' six-decade-long wait for another World Cup trophy.
	Traffic alert: Temporary 'no right turn' restriction at Rock Island intersection From Thursday, July 16, through Saturday, July 18, drivers will not be able to turn right onto 18th Avenue from 24th Street.
	Another drug manufacturer settles with Oregon, dozens of states over price-fixing allegations Medications are stored on shelves at a pharmacy in Los Angeles. Oregon's attorney general and other state attorneys general have sued dozens of generic drug companies during the last decade, alleging their executives coordinated on price fixing schemes that have kept some drug prices artificially high for consumers and limited competition. (Photo by Eric Thayer/Getty Images)The fifth pharmaceutical company sued by Oregon’s attorney general and dozens of other state attorneys general for violating federal antitrust laws in the last decade agreed to settle, this time for nearly $30 million. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield announced Wednesday that generic drug manufacturer Glenmark, accused of participating in an elaborate price fixing scheme with other manufacturers to inflate prescription drug costs for consumers and limit competition, will settle for $29.6 million. Oregon’s share of the settlement is $316,000, and Oregonians who purchased drugs manufactured by the company and several others between May 2009 and December 2019 could be eligible for settlement dollars. “Glenmark was working with other drug companies to keep prices artificially high, and Oregon families paid for it every time they picked up a prescription. This is money out of people’s pockets for medications they needed,” Rayfield said in a statement Oregonians who took a prescription drug manufactured by Glenmark, Lannett, Baush, Apotex or Heritage between May 2009 and December 2019 could be eligible for settlement funds. Learn more here, or call 1-866-290-0182 or email info@AGGenericDrugs.com Rayfield’s predecessor, former Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, joined three major, multistate antitrust lawsuits against Glenmark and dozens of pharmaceutical companies between 2016 and 2020. All of the suits were brought by state attorneys general in U.S. District Court in Connecticut. One of the suits, from 2020, is expected to go to trial soon. Four other pharmaceutical companies have settled with Oregon and the states over the decade for a total of nearly $67 million. Glenmark agreed as part of its settlement to cooperate in the ongoing multistate suits, which began with multi-year investigations and a database of over 20 million documents, phone records, sales records and interviews with corroborating witnesses in the industry, according to Rayfield’s news release. That includes evidence that executives across companies met with each other for parties, golf outings and “girls’ nights out” to make illegal agreements to keep prices artificially high. Rayfield last year helped to secure a $9.25 million settlement from two testosterone replacement gel manufacturers involved in drug-price fixing and in January filed suit against six of the nation’s largest pharmaceutical companies and pharmacy benefit managers in Multnomah County Circuit Court for conspiring to artificially inflate insulin prices and other critical diabetes medications for years. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Oregon Capital Chronicle
	Takeaways from Todd Blanche's confirmation hearing for attorney general Todd Blanche remained composed throughout the hours-long hearing, but faced several testy moments during questioning as he seeks to win the support of all Republican senators on the committee.
	State Treasurer: Trying to return baseball signed by Pete Rose and Michael Jordan card The Iowa State Treasurer's office is looking for the owners of sports memorabilia and other items that have been left unclaimed for years.
	Colona approves agreement for Chestnut Drive project The council voted 4-3 Monday to approve the development agreement with DLM for completion of Chestnut Drive within two years.
	QCCA Expo Center announces new name, facility upgrades Now the QCCA Event Center, the facility plans to refresh its main exhibition hall, renovate its restrooms and modernize its concession stand area.
	Illinois State Board of Education issues AI guidance, written with help from AI The Illinois State Board of Education recently released a guidance document intended to help schools and districts make decisions about whether and how to use artificial intelligence in classrooms and school operations.

Thursday, July 16th, 2026

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026