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

Friday, May 22nd, 2026
	Jamison Fisher pretrial hearing outlines alleged confessions, witness testimony A lengthy pretrial hearing revealed new details in the case against the man charged in the 1996 disappearance and death of Trudy Appleby.
	2026 Quad Cities Unity Pride Parade canceled Organizers said the decision was made after considering sponsor engagement, participation levels and costs associated with the event.
	Finally warming up after a cool week Temperatures have been below average all throughout this week with temperatures in the 60s and 70s. But as we approach the weekend starting tomorrow temperatures will not only be back to normal values but even exceed that for some Summer weather. Temperatures are looking to be in the upper 70s tomorrow nearing the 80s, before [...]
	Prosecutors argue for including 17 witnesses in Jamison Fisher's trial Prosecutors said the witnesses' testimony provides a complete picture of Jamie Fisher's alleged murder of Trudy Appleby.
	Student-built home now for sale in Davenport Students from the Davenport Community School District have been working together to build a home since September 2025, and it is finally complete and up for sale. It's all a part of a project which teaches students about the trades required to build a house from the ground up. This is the 27th year of [...]
	University of Iowa team researching impacts of social media on teen mental health Dr. Jonathan Platt joined The Current to discuss the impact of algorithms on what teens find online and how parents should talk with their kids about social media.
	1 injured, man arrested after Davenport stabbing Davenport police responded to the 500 block of W. 6th Street for a weapons call on Wednesday, May 20.
	Vehicle fully submerged in Bettendorf pond Police say the driver experienced a mechanical failure after a minor crash on Kimberly Road, and when they pulled over, the vehicle rolled into the pond.
	Bird's-eye views from across the Quad Cities region during the week of May 22, 2026 Sit back, relax and enjoy these scenes captured by the News 8 drone from across the Quad Cities region this week.
	Prosecutors outline alleged confessions, witness testimony in Jamison Fisher hearing New details emerged Friday during a lengthy pretrial hearing in the case against the man charged in the 1996 disappearance and death of Trudy Appleby.
	Annual Bellson Music Fest returns to Rock Falls The Bellson Music Fest honors world famous drummer Louie Bellson, who was born in Rock Falls in 1924.
	Central Dewitt schools raising money in honor of teacher who passed away Trisha Brookins died in a car accident in April. Now, district officials are raising money to help her family struggling with unexpected basement repairs.
	Davenport man accused of producing, possessing child sex abuse materials He was arrested on Thursday and faces 24 felony charges.
	Federal judge dismisses criminal charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw accused the Justice Department of conducting a vindictive prosecution against the Salvadoran man.
	Galesburg hosting city-wide food drive June 12 Galesburg, through its employee volunteer committee, Galesburg GIVES, is hosting a city-wide food drive on Friday, June 12. The event will unite city employees, residents, local businesses, churches and civic organizations in a day of giving. All donations go directly to FISH of Galesburg, Knox County's community food pantry. There is more pressure on local [...]
	Court sets summer timeline for witness evidence in Fisher murder case A judge reviews witness testimony for the Jamison Fisher murder trial in the 1996 Trudy Appleby case. Written arguments are now scheduled for July.
	Vehicle rolls into pond in Bettendorf Mechanical issues may have led to a vehicle rolling into a pond near Kimberly Road this morning, according to a news release from the City of Bettendorf. The Bettendorf Fire and Police Departments received a 911 call reporting a vehicle submerged in a pond in the 2200 block of Kimberly Road on Friday, May 22 [...]
	Legendary NASCAR Broadcaster Doug Rice Remembers Kyle Busch \| 'He was going to race today' NASCAR broadcaster since 1980 and former president and co-anchor of PRN Radio, the official voice of NASCAR — shares his memories of Kyle Busch.
	Cook review: 'Mandalorian and Grogu' blends fun, creatures, action to good effect A crowd-pleaser awaits "Star Wars" fans regardless of their ages. "Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu" deserves to be seen on the big screen. Whether you're a fan of the vehicles, the robots, the action, or the creatures (I'm in the latter category) you'll find something to enjoy. This is the first live-action "Star Wars" [...]
	Vehicle submerged in Bettendorf pond, officials say Bettendorf fire and police responded to the 2200 block of Kimberly Road for reports of a vehicle submerged in a pond.
	Death Notice: Jack Darland Jack D. Darland, 79, of Eldridge, died Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf. A private graveside service will be held, with a celebration of life to be held on Thursday, July 2, at Rolling Meadows Event Center, Eldridge. Visitation will be held from 2-5 p.m., with a time of remembrances at 5 p.m. The Runge Mortuary, Davenport, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be made to the North Scott Educational Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.rungemortuary.com. A full obituary will appear in the May 27 edition of The NSP.
	Vibrant Arena at The Mark announces new executive director Edgar most recently served as general manager of the Peoria Civic Center, according to a media release.
	Woman wanted for arson in Sterling Marcella Dingman, 52, is wanted for aggravated arson on a Whiteside County arrest warrant.
	What to know about Quad Cities airport travel during Memorial Day weekend he Quad Cities International Airport is expecting normal operations for Memorial Day weekend with good weather conditions, according to airport spokesperson Ashleigh Johnston.
	Ask AI or just Google it? Google makes a big change to a little search box The search giant is updating its famously minimalist homepage. But what looks like a tiny design change is a very big deal.
	Davenport Student Built Home Program brings a new house to the market The program gives students a chance to learn construction trades hands-on by building a home. Read the article for more on what they had to say about their experience.
	Bettendorf firefighters and police respond to vehicle in a pond Friday morning Police believe the car rolled into the pond after a mechanical issue arose following a collision.
	Davenport schools proposing naming Brady Street Stadium after Roger Craig There’s a movement from coaches and administrators in the Davenport School District to change the name of Brady Street Stadium to Roger Craig Stadium.
	Gabbard resigns as national intelligence director citing husband's cancer diagnosis Gabbard is the latest in a series of Cabinet officials to leave the Trump administration.
	Crews removing vehicle from pond after mechanical failure Crews are removing a car from a pond after a mechanical failure caused it to roll into it.
	Davenport Schools looking to purchase additional weapons detection systems The Davenport Community School District is requesting to add five weapons detection systems to its schools.
	1 dead after Davenport apartment fire One person is dead after a Davenport apartment fire on the 1400 block of East 39th Street.
	Court denies Jamison Fisher's motion to dismiss The man accused in the 1996 murder of 11-year-old Trudy Appleby appeared in Henry County Court in Cambridge with his attorneys Friday morning for a hearing on several motions -- including a motion to dismiss the case. Jamison Fisher appeared for a hearing on the state’s Motion To Admit Evidence Under Il Rule Of Evidence [...]
	Quad City Animal Welfare Center at full capacity; adoption fees lowered The Quad City Animal Welfare Center is at full capacity, and to address the issue, adoption fees have been temporarily lowered. According to a Facebook post: Adoption fees are lowered as follows: According to the post, every adopted pet will be: The Quad City Animal Welfare Center is located at 724 2nd Ave. W., Milan. [...]
	Resignations, hirings and other Moline School District personnel news from May 11 See the personnel items from the May 11 agenda of the Moline-Coal Valley School District. The board met at the Wilson Middle School.
	Mercado on Fifth celebrates 10 years with new awards Mercado on Fifth celebrated its 10th anniversary the day before its first open-air market of the season tonight (May 22) in downtown Moline, with its inaugural recognition awards.
	One dead after Davenport apartment fire Davenport fire crews responded to North Park Manor apartments early Friday morning. The cause of the fire remains under investigation
	4 Your Money \| Bigger Slice Stock valuations have been high for a while now, and many people wonder if that's sustainable. David Nelson, CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management, joins us to provide insight on why valuations have risen and if he expects them to remain elevated.
	Shein buys Everlane, which sold millennials the dream of ethical, affordable luxury Everlane's finances have faltered in recent years. But will the merger alienate Everlane's existing shoppers — or sway droves of Shein fans to trade up?
	Trump officials, billionaires and the quiet reshaping of America's public lands Trump officials, billionaires and the quiet reshaping of America's public landsAt the end of a dirt road along the northeastern edge of Montana’s Crazy Mountains, a simple sign warns visitors they are now entering private property. For fifth-generation Montanan Brad Wilson, the notice marks a defeat with implications far beyond the Crazies.“The fate of our public lands and our rights are in jeopardy right now,” Wilson told Floodlight for this article.Wilson is a former sheriff’s deputy and lifelong hunter. For most of his life, he has lived in the jagged shadows of the Crazy Mountains — their snow-capped peaks and twisting valleys watched him grow from a boy herding sheep on his grandfather’s ranch to a grey-haired hunter tracking elk herds across their remote slopes. “The loss of this access means a lot to me and everybody else,” he said beside the gate, looking down and hiding the wet corners of his eyes. The road beyond the gate next to Wilson leads into what was, for more than a century, one of two historic public trails into the east side of the Crazies. The U.S. Forest Service relinquished the public’s access to the trail early last year as part of a land swap with the Yellowstone Club — an exclusive mountaintop retreat for the megarich located 100 miles away in Big Sky. “It doesn't make any sense to me to give this up,” said Wilson. For many Montanans, the swap has come to symbolize the growing influence of wealthy private interests spreading across America's public lands and provides a glimpse of what could come under the Trump administration. There are more than 600 million acres of federally owned public lands across America — from iconic national parks and monuments to forests, grasslands and seashores. But now, nearly 90 million of those acres are at risk of some kind of development due to what critics describe as an unprecedented shift in policies under the first and second Trump administrations. In Arizona, a sacred Indigenous site was handed over earlier this year to a copper-mining company. In Utah, Republican Sen. Mike Lee attached a provision last summer to the federal budget that would have sold up to 3.2 million acres of public land across the West. And in April, the U.S. Senate voted to overturn a 20-year-old mining ban on federal lands in Minnesota, clearing the way for a foreign-owned copper mine.Perhaps nowhere in the country is the fight over public lands — and the big-moneyed interests pulling the strings — more on display right now than in Montana’s Crazy Mountains. “This is a really simple issue,” said Andrew Posewitz, a Montana public lands advocate and the son of a renowned conservationist. “The public had some really good land and some really good access in the Crazy Mountains. Some really rich people decided they liked the Crazy Mountains a lot. … And now the public doesn't have that access.”Every American — not just Montanans — should care, he warned. “Because it is very much a harbinger of potentially what could come.” Evan Simon // Floodlight Perched more than 7,000 feet above sea level, the Yellowstone Club was built atop former public lands acquired through land exchanges with the U.S. Forest Service in the 1990s. It has since converted more than 15,000 acres outside Big Sky into one of the most exclusive communities on the planet. The club’s membership has included familiar names: celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Tom Brady and Paris Hilton; tech titans like Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and Eric Schmidt; and financial elites like Bill Ackman, Warren Buffett and Robert Herjavec. Inside its gates, the Yellowstone Club has an 18-hole golf course, a concert venue, a movie theater, a dedicated fire department, hundreds of luxury homes and nearly 3,000 acres of private ski slopes. Initiation runs in the hundreds of thousands of dollars and an undeveloped lot inside the gate has sold for as much as $10 million, according to Forbes. CrossHarbor Capital Partners, a Boston-based investment firm, bought the Yellowstone Club out of bankruptcy in 2009. In the 17 years since, the firm has expanded its Montana portfolio — developed through a subsidiary called Lone Mountain Land Company — to become one of the largest luxury-resort footprints in the Rocky Mountains. Evan Simon // Floodlight "They're gobbling up mass swaths of Montana," said Erik Nylund, who served as a staffer for former Democratic Montana Sen. Jon Tester and met often with club representatives. “They will throw money around at anybody and everybody to get what they want.”In 2016, the Yellowstone Club drew criticism after more than 30 million gallons of its sewage overflowed into the headwaters of the Gallatin River, drawing over $300,000 in penalties and financial commitments from the company — and outraging locals. Evan Simon // Floodlight The Yellowstone Club declined an on-camera interview for this story. In a written statement, a company representative noted that numerous lawsuits against the club over its impacts to local waterways “have been dismissed by federal judges” and the club has spent millions to treat its wastewater “to the highest standards the State of Montana assigns.” CrossHarbor also did not respond to an interview request. The club has also become a favorite refuge among high-level Trump administration officials. Energy Secretary Chris Wright owns a home there; Vice President JD Vance reportedly spent Christmas at the club; and Trump himself hosted a campaign fundraiser there in 2024. And the man in charge of most of America’s public lands is also a member.Interior Secretary Doug Burgum oversees 500 million acres of federal land in the U.S., and has referred multiple times to these parcels as “assets on America’s balance sheet.”Since early 2025, Burgum — along with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins — has helped the Trump administration pursue major overhauls of public lands management, including a $1 billion cut to the National Park Service budget, opening the Arctic to potential oil and gas drilling and repealing the 2001 Roadless Rule, the safeguard that has kept new roads and clearcuts out of nearly 60 million acres.A real estate developer and the former governor of North Dakota, Burgum owns a $22 million condo at the Yellowstone Club, according to Montana property records reviewed by Floodlight. Illustration by Evan Simon // Floodlight. Source imagery: Montana Cadastral // Department of Interior It’s held through an entity called Lone View, LLC. Burgum disclosed last year that he rented it out in 2024 for income between $100,001 and $1 million. Burgum also holds a separate ownership stake in the club itself that he valued at up to $250,000 and that paid him nearly $22,000 in 2024.Burgum's latest financial disclosure form shows he did not divest from any of these interests upon taking office. A representative declined to answer if the secretary would abstain from any future decisions involving the club or its affiliates. Meanwhile, Burgum has partnered with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to explore ways for public lands to be sold in order to make room for more affordable housing across the country. “He shouldn't be involved in residential development on public lands while he owns that,” said Richard Painter, former chief ethics lawyer to the George W. Bush administration. “Let someone else handle that — he's got a deputy.” Evan Simon // Floodlight Burgum’s office did not answer Floodlight’s emailed questions, but responded to the inquiry with this statement: “Secretary Burgum has complied with all federal ethics requirements and remains committed to protecting America’s ability to responsibly use and care for our federal lands for the profit and benefit of future generations.” In the past, Burgum has argued his policies aim to lower the national debt and address the nation’s housing crisis. “They'll say the words ‘affordable housing’ and there's not going to be anything affordable about it,” said Nylund, arguing that only luxury home builders and private resorts would be interested in developing America’s largely remote and inaccessible public lands. “It's all about development,” he said. “And if you've taken a ride to Big Sky or the Yellowstone Club lately, you've seen what development looks like, and it's a bunch of mansions.”Despite their distance from Big Sky, the fear of luxury resorts replacing wilderness hangs heavy over the Crazy Mountains. “The wealth that’s coming here is just changing our way of life,” Wilson said. Wilson, 71, lives a quiet life in Wilsall, a tiny town at the foot of the Crazies. The walls of his small home are adorned with antlers and family photographs dating back to the 1800s. "I grew up with a pack on my back hiking those mountains," he said. “Both of my sons grew up in the Crazy Mountains. And I cannot tell you how special they are to me — because I get choked up sometimes.”The Crazies resemble a mountain fortress — an island of jagged peaks rising more than 7,000 feet above the surrounding high plains, complete with secluded river valleys and alpine lakes. Yet their beauty belies a long history of heated conflict rooted in century-old decisions. In the late 1800s, Congress paid the transcontinental railroads for their work by giving them every other square mile of federal land across whole regions of the West, which resulted in a checkerboard pattern of private and public land ownership. Luis A Yordan for Floodlight Anyone could continue to use public roads and trails that crossed through these newly minted private parcels, according to congressional acts and court rulings. Over time, however, those parcels in the Crazies were bought up by some of the richest people in the state, some of whom objected to the public crossing through their land. “They began to do things that violated those rules, such as blocking these roads, blocking these trails,” said Posewitz, the Montana lands advocate. Wilson first noticed the change around 2016, when he encountered a blocked trail on the west side of the Crazies that his grandparents had used nearly a century ago. He was furious. “All of a sudden I'm like, ‘No, you can't do that. That’s ridiculous,’” Wilson recalled.Around that time, a U.S. forest ranger began to defend public access in the range by putting up Forest Service signs along contested trails. The big landowners weren’t happy. They reached out to Montana Republican Sen. Steve Daines and Trump’s then-Agriculture Secretary, Sonny Perdue. It wasn’t long before the ranger was reassigned. Daines and Perdue did not respond to Floodlight’s repeated requests for comment on the ranger controversy, and Forest Service officials said they wouldn’t talk about it. However, Mary Erickson, the former Custer Gallatin Forest supervisor and the former ranger’s boss, did talk, and she denied any political interference. She said the ranger “wasn’t reassigned,” he was “just assigned to something else while the investigation was in place.” She acknowledged the move looked punitive but said it was for the ranger’s own protection as the process played out.Nylund served as Senator Tester’s natural resources liaison at the time, and said he worked closely with the Forest Service. To him, the ranger controversy exemplified the growing influence of Montana’s elites on the Crazies. “The political forces of the country came down on this district ranger and they put him in his place,” Nylund said. The ranger was eventually reinstated in 2017 after being cleared of any wrongdoing. Around the same time, Nylund said he was approached by a high-end consultant for an unnamed client seeking to swap land in the Crazies with the U.S. Forest Service. The unnamed client? “That was the Yellowstone Club,” Nylund said. Nylund later learned that in order to get the land they needed for an “expert ski run” in Big Sky, the club agreed to help the Forest Service solve access disputes in the Crazies by organizing a land exchange. “We didn’t have the time and resources to resolve some of that,” said Erickson, the former Forest Service supervisor. But she said she made it clear that “the Yellowstone Club wouldn't call the shots, and I do feel like that was true the whole way.” Multiple people involved with early discussions around the land swap said the Yellowstone Club’s involvement in the exchange was kept secret and only revealed years into the process. Once the information did get out, the club’s representatives worked to reassure locals that they had no intention of developing the Crazies.“Then out of nowhere, it's announced that they are purchasing the Crazy Mountain Ranch,” said Emily Cleveland, a program director at Wild Montana — a conservation group that works to protect public lands and wildlife in the stateCrazy Mountain Ranch is an 18,000-acre former dude ranch located at the foot of the range’s southern end. Cleveland called the club’s move a “bait and switch.” “It just really changed our ability to trust them at their word,” she said.The Yellowstone Club is now converting the ranch into what it describes as “a private membership experience” featuring a luxury spa and a new 18-hole golf course. In response, shell-shocked locals have taken to posting “RANCHES NOT RESORTS” signs along the roads. “I about fell over,” Wilson recalled of learning the news. “It just shows the deception and the nontransparency of this whole thing.” Evan Simon // Floodlight Evan Simon // Floodlight A club representative told Floodlight that, “At the time of those early discussions, there were no plans or intention to own land in the Crazy Mountains. … This development came near the end of the exchange discussions and only enhanced the benefits to the public.” However, the ranch began illegally drawing water to irrigate its golf course in 2024 and Montana regulators sued them the following year. “There’s a very famous saying in Montana that ‘Whiskey’s for drinking and water’s for fighting,’ and when you take water that you’re not entitled to, that's a big deal here,” said Posewitz. The club said it underestimated the time it would take to get regulatory approval, and later reached an agreement with the state to stop watering its golf course until proper permits were in place. A Yellowstone Club representative declined to answer if the group is planning to acquire any more land in the Crazies, instead writing that they expect to be “a good neighbor for many years in the Shields Valley community.” Fears surrounding the luxury developer’s potential impact on the Crazies reached a fever pitch after the Forest Service authorized the landswap the club helped orchestrate in January 2025. The deal, called the East Crazy Inspiration Divide Land Exchange, moved nearly 4,000 acres of public lands into private ownership. In return, the public got more than 6,000 acres of private lands. On paper, it looked like a bargain: Appraisals obtained by Floodlight put the value of the land the public gained at more than $9.6 million and the land it gave up at more than $8.5 million. However, the swap enraged some locals because most of the low-lying accessible hills the public could enjoy were given up for high-elevation areas.“All of the sort of prime habitat, that all went into private ownership, and then the tops of the mountains all went into public ownership,” said Posewitz. The independent appraiser hired by the Forest Service seemed to agree. She described one section of land the public was getting as “very steep and difficult” to reach. Hunting would be impossible on most of the property. A person “would have to be a skilled rock climber” to navigate it, she wrote. The land swap also solved the checkerboard issue that has plagued the Crazies for decades by consolidating public lands in the center of the range.“What it's resulting in is a ring of private ownership around a chunk of public land that has very limited access,” said Posewitz.Critics argue the exchange only benefits large landowners in the Crazies, several of whom run high-end hunting operations that rely on the range’s valuable natural resources.Yellowstone Club member David Leuschen, for example, has acquired a nearly 8,500-acre ranch along with remote inholdings — including entire mountains — and is among the largest private landowners in the Crazy Mountains. Leuschen did not respond to requests for comment.“The landowners now have access to the public lands in a really exclusive way,” said Cleveland of Wild Montana. She said the exchange gives these landowners “easy access into that country where the public has to hike 20 miles of backcountry trail to get in there” and “opens the door to a much more realistic development scenario.” Luis A Yordan for Floodlight The most contested piece of the deal was the trail network. Two historic public trails had appeared on Forest Service maps for more than a century. The exchange abandoned the public’s claim to both. In their place, the Yellowstone Club agreed to pay for a new 22-mile trail on mostly public land, at a substantially higher elevation, as part of a 40-mile backcountry loop. Luis A Yordan for Floodlight “Can you imagine elderly folks and younger folks trying to hike that?” asked Wilson on a visit to the future trailhead. “It's not hiker friendly at all. Definitely not hunter friendly.” He looked up at the nearly vertical wall of shale rock where the trail is slated to start. “It’s ridiculous,” he said. Evan Simon // Floodlight Erickson, the former supervisor, promises the new trail “will meet all Forest Service trail standards.” She said the exchange will resolve access disputes, create more wild country in the Crazies and strengthen public access in the range.Proponents of the exchange also say the swap increases access to Crazy Peak, an important cultural and religious site for Crow tribal members. Leuschen, who owns the mountain, has reportedly agreed to allow tribal members to access the peak through a formal agreement. Critics, however, have questioned why granting such access would be contingent on the land swap. No independent third party has ever seen the agreement and Leuschen has denied its existence. The Forest Service said it is not involved in the agreement’s “management or oversight” because it’s between two private parties, and a spokesperson did not respond when asked to confirm the agreement’s existence. “Our concern was that it never materialized into something that was durable,” said Cleveland about the supposed agreement. “The Crazies are an incredibly important, sacred place for the Crow Tribe. And to use that as perceived leverage in getting support for this land exchange, you know, just didn‘t feel right to us,” she said. Evan Simon // Floodlight Tribal officials did not respond to Floodlight’s multiple interview requests, but some have expressed the tribe’s stance on the land swap in lukewarm terms in the past.“There’s an assumption that we’re for it or against it. Really what matters is what gives us more access to the landscape,” Aaron Brien, the Crow tribal historic preservation officer, told a local TV station. “I want all Crow land should be back to Crow people.” Considering the complexity of the swap, it's perhaps no surprise the public saw the deal as highly controversial. Roughly two-thirds of the more than 1,000 public comments submitted to the Forest Service opposed the exchange, according to a Floodlight analysis. Many cited the loss of historic public trails, low-elevation lands and the growing influence of Yellowstone Club. “We don't look at that as that's an opposition,” former forest supervisor Erickson said. “We just look at that as, right up until the very end, people are trying to tell you what they hope you can get more of.” Evan Simon // Floodlight Nylund, the former Senate staffer, sees it another way. “The public spoke, the Forest Service ignored them,” he said. “When one unelected bureaucrat can relinquish public access to hundreds of thousands of acres of public land and we don't get a say in it? That's a crisis.”The proliferation of high-end private resorts, combined with the Trump administration’s pro-development policies, have only increased alarm among advocates across the country who say America’s public lands are now entering a very different era.“America has always had this balance of people who seek to exploit her natural resources and those who seek to defend them,” said Posewitz. That balance is now shifted, he said, because “those people who are supposed to be defending our interest … are actually actively facilitating the exploitation of these natural resources for the benefit of very, very few.” “We’re losing pieces and pieces every day,” said Wilson during a recent drive along the eastern edge of the Crazies. Despite the power imbalance, he draws energy from the words of famed Montana conservationist, Jim Posewitz.“Make ‘em take it from you,” he said. This story was produced by Floodlight and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What does it feel like to take GLP-1s? New survey documents patients’ experiences What does it feel like to take GLP-1s? New survey documents patients’ experiencesIt has now been several years since GLP-1 medications were widely introduced for weight loss, transforming both clinical care and public awareness. But as adoption has surged, a new set of questions has emerged: What does it feel like to take these medications? What challenges do patients face beyond weight loss itself? And as demand continues to grow, what factors will determine whether patients can start — and adhere to — treatment long term?Based on a GoodRx Research survey of more than 580 people who have taken GLP-1 medications, the data show that for many people, the central question is no longer whether GLP-1s work. Instead, life on a GLP-1 is shaped by a more fragile set of factors: how much patients pay, how easily they can refill a prescription, how well their bodies tolerate the drug, and whether those conditions hold long enough for treatment to continue.In this article, GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, takes a look at the current state of GLP-1 patient experience.Key takeaways:Satisfaction among people using GLP-1s for weight loss is high overall, but it drops sharply among those paying over $1,000 per month.Over 1 in 3 people taking GLP-1s face barriers to access, including difficulty filling prescriptions — most often due to shortages. These barriers can disrupt weight-loss treatment and lead to medication switching.Nausea is the most commonly reported side effect of GLP-1s used for weight loss. People experiencing side effects also report switching their medication at higher rates (31% versus 19%).Most GLP-1 care still happens in person. About 8 in 10 people receive their prescription in person from a primary care provider or specialist, compared with 10% who use telehealth.Gender gaps show up in both outcomes and access. Men report higher rates of improved health than women (59% versus 49%), while women are more likely to use online clinics and telehealth to access weight-loss medications.Satisfaction for GLPs is high until cost intervenesAccording to the GoodRx survey, nearly 1 in 8 adults in the U.S. are actively taking a prescription weight-loss medication, and another 8% had tried one in the past.Overall satisfaction is strong. More than 7 in 10 people who have taken a prescription weight-loss medication report being satisfied, including 40% who say they are very satisfied. But that headline masks a steep cost gradient.Among people whose medication is fully covered, satisfaction is consistently high: Nearly 43% are very satisfied, and fewer than 14% report dissatisfaction. Satisfaction remains relatively stable for those paying up to $500 per month, suggesting that, for many people, moderate out-of-pocket costs are tolerable when the medication is working.That pattern breaks down at the highest price points. Among people paying over $1,000 per month, dissatisfaction spikes: Nearly 40% report being very dissatisfied, and fewer than 1 in 3 say they are very satisfied. Cost, more than side effects or age, emerges as one of the clearest predictors of whether someone feels positive about their treatment. GoodRx This divide reflects broader coverage realities. GoodRx research shows that tens of millions of commercially insured people in the U.S. lack coverage for GLP-1 drugs approved for weight loss. Even when coverage exists, it is often paired with restrictions like prior authorization or step therapy. The result is a system where satisfaction increasingly depends less on clinical response and more on insurance design.Age shapes expectations and experiencesSatisfaction also varies sharply by age. Younger adults report far more ambivalence. Among adults ages 18 to 24, fewer than 14% say they are very satisfied. Nearly one-third report neutral feelings and another third report dissatisfaction. GoodRx By contrast, adults ages 35 to 64 report the highest satisfaction, with roughly 40% saying they are very satisfied and reporting relatively low dissatisfaction rates. These differences may reflect expectations as much as outcomes: Younger adults appear more sensitive to side effects, cost, or the friction of staying on treatment, while older adults may weigh benefits differently.Side effects drive switching medications, but not always stoppingSide effects are common, but they don’t affect everyone equally. Nausea is the most commonly reported side effect, followed by constipation, stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and vomiting.These effects don’t always end treatment, but they often lead to changes. People who experience side effects while taking a GLP-1 are significantly more likely to switch medications than those who don’t. In fact, about 31% of those experiencing side effects switch medications, compared with 19% of those who do not. For many, the GLP-1 journey involves experimentation: adjusting doses, changing drugs, or moving between branded and compounded options in search of something tolerable. GoodRx Access problems compound dissatisfactionCost is not the only source of instability. More than 1 in 3 people report difficulty filling their prescription, most commonly because the medication was out of stock. Insurance hurdles, pharmacy delays, and repeated trips to different pharmacies remain common. GoodRx These access issues matter. People who report difficulty filling their prescription are three times as likely to switch medications as those who do not. And concern about continued access rises steadily with cost: Among people paying $500 to $1,000 per month, more than 1 in 3 say they are very concerned about losing access, compared with 15% of those whose medication is fully covered. GoodRx GoodRx Where care begins, and how it differsDespite the rise of telehealth, most people who use GLP-1s still enter treatment through traditional medical channels. A majority receive prescriptions via in-person visits with primary care doctors, followed by specialists such as endocrinologists or obesity-medicine healthcare professionals.But pathways vary by race and gender. White patients are more likely to use online weight-loss clinics, while Black and Hispanic patients more often rely on in-person care, particularly primary care physicians. Women are also more likely than men to use online clinics, while men are more likely to receive prescriptions directly through their regular doctor.These differences matter because access challenges, such as refill difficulty and medication switching, show up across every care pathway, suggesting that no single model has solved the problem of continuity. GoodRx GoodRx GLPs can improve overall health, but not for everyoneJust over half of people report that their overall health has improved since starting a weight-loss medication. Men are more likely than women to report health improvements (59% versus 49%), while women are more likely to report no change or worsening health. GoodRx A fragile successGLP-1 medications have reshaped what’s possible in weight care. For many, GLP-1s deliver real benefits and sustained satisfaction. But the data suggest that this success is conditional. For a small but meaningful share of people, the experience falls short, not because the medication fails outright, but because the surrounding system does.High costs erode satisfaction. Side effects drive medication switching. Supply disruptions interrupt care. Insurance rules determine who can stay on treatment and who cannot. For many people taking a GLP-1 is less about the promise of the drug itself and more about whether the health care system can support them long enough for that promise to hold.MethodologyThe GoodRx survey was run through YouGov from August through October 2025. The sample population was adults who reported having taken a GLP-1 medication for weight loss. Of the 1,000 adults surveyed, 585 responses were screened in for current or previous GLP-1 medication use for weight loss. Survey responses were weighted to the U.S. population using age, gender, race, political affiliation, and education level. The YouGov survey research arm provides additional details on methodology and weighting.This story was produced by GoodRx and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What is lead nurturing? 6 strategies to close hesitant prospects in 2026 What is lead nurturing? 6 strategies to close hesitant prospects in 2026New leads may never result in a sale.As a salesperson, you can’t afford to give up on a prospect simply because they are unwilling or unready to buy at the current moment.Instead, savvy sellers use tactics to cultivate these relationships and provide hesitant leads with the support they need to successfully move forward in the buying process.Read on as Apollo explains how to quickly identify the prospects who aren’t ready to buy and use tried-and-true lead nurturing techniques to turn “Maybe” into a decisive “Yes.”What is lead nurturing? Why is it important for results-driven sellers?Lead nurturing involves engaging potential buyers with value-based content and personalized outreach across every stage of the sales funnel. It is the process of investing in leads that are not yet ready to buy and helping them get to a place where they feel confident and ready to purchase your product.This involves strategies like:Scoring and segmenting leadsCreating relevant and engaging contentBuilding personalized email campaignsLeveraging multichannel outreach methodsSuccessful lead nurturing also involves anticipating the needs of the buyer based on who they are (e.g., title, role, industry, company information) and where they are in the buying process.What you put into lead nurturing, you get out of it.Companies using modern marketing automation systems report a substantial increase in qualified leads, according to the GTM8020 Marketing Automation Trends. This is because investing in the prospects you already have (rather than pouring more funds into outbound marketing) is infinitely cheaper. Not to mention, it results in more satisfied customers and an increasingly positive company reputation.Accelerate deals with these lead-nurturing strategiesAs a sales rep, you should always make an effort to develop relationships with your sales-qualified leads. However, it’s the prospects who aren’t ready to buy that could especially benefit from dedicated lead nurturing strategies.Here are some of the signs that your prospect isn’t close to closing a deal with you, and lead nurturing strategies that will get them there:Sign #1: They have no urgencyWhen businesses are faced with a problem, they are often urged to find and purchase a solution. If your prospect is slow to respond and passive in sales discussions, it shows you that they don’t see the inherent value in your product and need to be made aware of it.Try: Nurturing them with relevant contentE-books, case studies, video tutorials, product comparisons — engaging sales content takes many forms, and sharing these materials with prospects can be a great way to warm them up and educate them about your product’s value.It’s important to remember that potential buyers want solutions, not pages of content that talk about how great your company is.To properly nurture your leads, demonstrate that you understand where they are at. Send relevant content that addresses their specific situations and pain points, helping them confidently move forward in the buying process.Sign #2: They won’t reveal their budgetIf a potential customer refuses to talk specifics on budget, they aren’t serious about buying yet. It’s a surefire way to tell that your prospect doesn’t currently feel an attachment to doing business with your organization.Try: Ramping up the personalizationNothing fosters positive relationships with buyers like personalized experiences.Along with sending them relevant content, you can nurture hesitant leads by increasing personalization all across your sales interactions. You can do this by:Adding first names to email subject linesHighlighting specific needs and pain points in sales discussionsUsing behavior triggered email automation to deliver messages that are relevant to a current stage in the buyer journeyMaking the time to chat with prospects in real-timeInfusing specific contact data and company info into message bodiesSign #3: They don’t answer the important questionsProspects who aren’t willing or ready to buy are often unwilling to answer important questions such as: What does success with our product look like to you? Or, what’s your timeline for purchasing this product or service? Whether they are withholding the information or are simply unsure, it’s an opportunity for clever salespeople to do some calculated questioning.Try: Guiding them to the right conclusions with strategic questioningSome examples of strategic questions include:“Why is securing XYZ not a priority for your organization right now?”“When you say you are not interested, are you speaking for the entire company?”“If timeline or budget were not constraints, what would your ideal solution look like?"Questions are a great way to remain open to your prospectsâ€™ concerns while guiding them toward deal-closing conclusions.Sign #4: They put you off again and again“Call me later,” “I need to reschedule,” “Send me the information and I’ll review later”: These are all signs that your prospect is disinterested and far from purchase ready.Try: Multichannel outreach to snag their interestWhen your prospect’s attention is elsewhere, reach them where they are and where they like to spend time, beyond just email inboxes.One great lead nurturing strategy is creating sales sequences full of omnichannel touch points like phone calls and SMS, social media connection requests, emails, direct messages, and other action items. It’s even better if you can automate these actions, which not only saves you time but allows you to schedule the right messaging and interactions for just the right time.And don’t forget to add an A/B test to the mix. Testing your outbound messages allows you to discover which ones are resonating with your audience and getting the best results.Other strategies for nurturing a healthy sales funnelRe-evaluate buyer fit with prospectsIf you try a few lead nurturing strategies and you’re still met with a resistant, uncurious prospect, it’s time to re-evaluate their buyer fit.Some prospects, even if they are initially sales-qualified, are just not right for your business. A lack of resources, improper company size, unaligned business goals, and/or poor culture fit are qualities that no amount of lead nurturing can fix.Use intent data to find buyers who are readyWhile you may be forced to drop unfit prospects from your sales pipeline, you can turn to buyer intent data as an intelligent way to find buyers who are ready.Intent data is a set of signals gathered from website traffic, advertising engagement, buyer’s online research, and other sources that can help sellers determine exactly which accounts are actively pursuing a solution like theirs.Using this kind of predictive data can help you identify best-fit buyers before your competition, prioritize leads to save time and resources, and gain the insights you create personalized and relevant messaging.It’s important to note that there is no one right answer for nurturing your leads. Listen to your prospect’s concerns and objections and apply selling strategies that fill their needs and keep them moving towards a sale.In ClosingThe vast majority of leads fail to convert to tangible sales, so you just can’t afford to simply abandon prospects when they fail to become buyers right away. By nurturing these leads and anticipating their needs with smart strategies, you can start capitalizing on every sales opportunity.This story was produced by Apollo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport man arrested, charged with 20 counts of possession of CSAM A Davenport man is in the Scott County Jail on a $300,000 cash-only bond after police said he had about 1,500 images and videos of child sex abuse material (CSAM) on a cell phone. The criminal complaints filed in Scott County Court said Davenport Police were advised about a cell phone that contained Child Sex [...]
	Downtown Moline is finalizing plans for opening day at Mercado Tonight's celebration is the start of Mercado on Fifth's tenth anniversary. Attractions include food trucks, live music and handmade items.
	The administration's plan to rubber-stamp drilling in the Arctic The administration's plan to rubber-stamp drilling in the ArcticThe Trump administration wants to speed up the permitting process for oil and gas projects in Alaska, using a proposed regulatory shift that has major implications for the Western Arctic.In a May 15 announcement reviewed by RE:PUBLIC, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) shared what it called “a new effort to streamline permitting for oil and gas infrastructure” in the 23-million-acre National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska (NPR-A). The Department of the Interior’s move comes in direct response to a May 12 petition submitted by a pro-extraction industry group, the Alaska Oil and Gas Association (AOGA).On Friday, May 15, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum described the gist of what the government has in mind, speaking to CNBC correspondent Morgan Brennan in an unusual setting for a cable news stand-up: the remote, still-snowy landscape of the NPR-A itself.Bundled against the cold over a chyron that said “Alaska’s Crude Comeback,” the pair were near the site of the Willow project, a huge effort led by ConocoPhillips—approved by the Biden administration and upheld by a federal judge after several years of battles—that, by 2030, is projected to extract up to 180,000 barrels of oil per day from the far northeastern portion of the NPR-A. A limited amount of drilling is already underway on NPR-A land; the Trump administration intends to open it up for a lot more, and it wants things to happen fast. Mario Tama // Getty Images “[Y]ou just made a big announcement about deregulation, specifically, about [permit] streamlining,” Brennan said. “What goes into that, and how quickly does that now mean we can see more production online?”Burgum’s lengthy answer took viewers through various goals that could affect this part of the North Slope—including the NPR-A and, roughly 80 miles to the east, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). The bottom line was this: The administration is trying to short-circuit the lengthy process of environmental review that’s required before new drilling can begin on land that the BLM has opened for potential development through lease sales. (ConocoPhillips acquired the first of its Willow-area leases in 1999. The permitting process didn’t formally start until 2018; final approvals happened in 2023.)“As development is occurring here, at [the Willow] site, we’ve got a problem,” Burgum said. “Permitting from the federal government is slow, but in Alaska, for some reason … it takes two or three or four times longer to get something permitted. We need to get that down to the same standards we have in the Lower 48.”Burgum mentioned North Dakota, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania as examples—landscapes that are very different from the Willow site, which sits on sensitive wetlands.Burgum said that the environmental impact statements required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) should no longer be mandatory for every new project. Instead, the government should be allowed to extend “existing reviews.”The administration maintains that EISs done for a site like Willow should also be applicable to other sites in the region—the logic being that they’re similar enough that new EISs are redundant. This goal is spelled out in a May 12 petition that was submitted to the Interior Department by AOGA.Specifically, AOGA is asking that a portion of the federal code—43 C.F.R. part 3160—be amended to allow “a uniform and efficient process to approve production projects similar to those that have already been approved in the NPR-A and adjacent lands.”The petition includes a 45-day public comment period before the Interior decides on whether to adopt the proposed new system. Once that period is over, the chances of approval seem quite high, given the way Interior is now staffed.Kara Moriarty, the current senior advisor for Alaska affairs—a role that puts her in the middle of reviewing this petition—was the president and CEO of AOGA before joining the Trump administration in May 2025. The petition itself was signed by Steve Wackowski, who, during the first Trump administration, held the same job Moriarty now has.Erik Grafe, an attorney with the Alaska office of the environmental group Earthjustice—which challenged the Willow project in court—said the new regulatory proposal is “part and parcel” with actions taken since the start of Trump’s second term.“The Western Arctic is the place that has the most industry interest, and the administration is going all out,” he said. Trump’s initial round of executive orders included one he issued on Jan. 20, 2025, called Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential. It instructed Interior to roll back a management plan that laid out which zoned areas in the NPR-A could be opened for oil and gas extraction.“They opened up sensitive areas that had been closed for decades,” Grafe said, including one called Teshekpuk Lake, a famous wetland that’s considered a vital nesting area for migratory shorebirds, geese, and other waterfowl. Patricio Arana, Sophie Ramis, Sabrina Blanchard // Graphic by AFP via Getty Images In a press release, The Wilderness Society torched the proposed change, calling it “a destructive wish list that would essentially hand over the Western Arctic to the oil industry.”“It would be beyond reckless and irresponsible for BLM to turn over the keys to the Western Arctic and virtually walk away,” said Matt Jackson, Alaska senior manager for the group. “Not only would this proposed rule deprive the public of input over giant oil projects, but it would also turn a blind eye to environmental and public health impacts, putting clean water, wildlife habitat, and subsistence resources at risk while stripping the government’s ability to hold companies accountable for things like oil spills, wildlife impacts, or rig collapses.”Also of note is the small amount of time that passed between the filing of the petition on May 12 and the government’s rulemaking notice on May 15. Federal rulemaking normally takes years—but when Alaska’s oil and gas industry formally petitioned for streamlined Arctic drilling permits, the government’s response was posted only three days later. The similarities between the BLM’s prepublication Federal Register notice and the petition’s regulatory goals and structure are striking, suggesting that the two documents were developed in parallel rather than in sequence.“Given the timing of the announcement, less than three days after the petition was submitted by AOGA,” Jackson said, “the public is left to wonder if this is a coordinated effort to grant [the] industry a wishlist of their demands.”The National Petroleum Reserve was established in 1923, one of several such reserves created for emergency use by the U.S. Navy. During the oil shortages of the mid-1970s, Congress passed the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act, which transferred jurisdiction over NPR-A from the Secretary of the Navy to the Secretary of the Interior.In March of this year, the BLM, which manages NPR-A, opened oil company bids in a massive lease sale across 5.5 million acres of the total 18.7 million acres—more than 82% of the reserve—that is now open to oil and gas leasing, exploration, and development. Earthjustice is currently part of a federal lawsuit filed against the government challenging the lease sale and the underlying plan that opened up most of the reserve to drilling.It’s likely that the kind of radical change to the environmental review process that the Interior now seeks would also be challenged in court. As for ANWR, no drilling is currently underway there, but ANWR leases have been sold in the past, and the results of a new round of lease bidding are scheduled to be announced on June 5.This story was produced by RE:PUBLIC and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	My brand isn’t ranking in AI search results: Why and how to fix it My brand isn’t ranking in AI search results: Why and how to fix itIf a brand isn’t ranking in AI search results, the most likely reason is that AI engines like ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, Perplexity, and Gemini don’t have enough consistent signals about that brand to cite it in generated answers. AI platforms don’t rank pages the way Google does. They select brands based on citation frequency across trusted sources, entity clarity, and structured content that directly answers user queries.The sections below from WebFX examine common reasons why brands may not appear in AI search and how to address visibility issues.Why brands aren’t ranking in AI search resultsBrands may not rank in AI search results because AI engines select sources differently from how Google does. Google ranks pages based on relevance, backlinks, and authority signals tied to specific URLs. AI engines synthesize answers by pulling from training data, live retrieval, and third-party citations, then choose brands based on how often they appear consistently across trusted sources.This creates a gap that represents a significant shift for marketing teams. Ahrefs research of 863,000 keywords and 4 million AI Overview citations found that only 38% of AI Overview citations come from pages ranking in Google’s top 10 for the same query, a sharp drop from 76% just seven months earlier. A brand can hold the top organic position for its primary keyword and still be absent when a buyer asks ChatGPT for a recommendation in that category.The shift is not hypothetical. ChatGPT processes an estimated 66 million searchlike queries per day, and each one returns a single consolidated answer rather than a ranked list. If a brand isn’t in that answer, it is not represented in the interaction.6 reasons why your brand isn’t showing up in AI searchWhy isn’t your brand showing up in AI search? The causes cluster into six common patterns, usually appearing in combination rather than alone. Work through each one to diagnose which applies to your site.1. Your content isn’t structured for AI extractionAI models cite content they can quote cleanly. If your pages bury answers under long introductions, use vague subheadings, or mix multiple topics per section, AI engines skip past them. The fix is leading each section with a direct one-sentence answer, using question-format H2s that mirror user queries, and structuring content in short paragraphs, bullet lists, and FAQs blocks.A useful test: Read any section heading and the first sentence below it. If the answer isn’t clear from those two elements alone, AI retrieval will move on.2. Your brand lacks entity authority across the webWhy isn’t your website cited by AI? The most common answer is that your brand isn’t mentioned enough in places AI engines learn from. AI models pull from Wikipedia, Reddit, review platforms, industry publications, podcasts, YouTube, and news sites. If your brand shows up only on your own domain, AI engines treat you as an isolated signal rather than an authoritative entity.A WebFX study of 2.3 billion sessions found that ChatGPT accounts for 82.6% of all generative AI referral traffic. ChatGPT draws heavily on consistent cross-platform mentions to decide which brands to surface.3. Your content doesn’t directly answer real buyer questionsIf your pages describe features, benefits, and company messaging but never answer the specific questions buyers ask, AI engines have nothing to extract. Generative engines optimize for zero-shot answers. They want a question, an answer, and supporting context in that order.Content that lists product capabilities without answering “what does this do,” “who is this for,” or “how is this different” leaves AI with nothing quotable.4. Your site has technical barriers blocking AI crawlersSome brands block AI crawlers in robots.txt either intentionally (during the early wave of AI-scraping concerns) or accidentally. Blocking AI crawlers in robots.txt can reduce your chances of being cited or surfaced in AI answers, especially for systems that rely on direct crawling or fresh retrieval. Review agents like GPTBot, ClaudeBot, PerplexityBot, and Google-Extended carefully so you don’t accidentally limit AI visibility.Check your robots.txt file at yoursite.com/robots.txt. Confirm that GPTBot, ClaudeBot, PerplexityBot, and Google-Extended are allowed, or that at minimum they are not explicitly blocked.5. You’re only optimizing for traditional SEOTraditional SEO is the foundation of AI visibility, but it’s no longer the full strategy. Strong search engine optimization (SEO) earns you the baseline, then topical authority, entity signals, and AI-readable content structure determine whether you’re selected as a cited source.Brands focusing only on page-level SEO without the generative engine optimization (GEO) layer are investing in the foundation without building the structure that AI engines actually cite.6. Your content is outdated, thin, or inconsistentAI engines favor fresh, comprehensive, consistent content. Pages with stale statistics, thin coverage of core topics, or inconsistent brand descriptions across your site and external listings create confusion for AI models trying to identify who you are and what you do.Audit your top pages for last-updated dates, depth against competitors, and consistent entity framing (what your product is, who it’s for, how it’s different) across every touchpoint.How to check if your brand appears in AI answersHow to check AI search visibility takes three manual tests plus one structured tracking setup. Run all four to establish a baseline before making fixes.Test branded queries directly. Ask ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, and Claude: “What can you tell me about [Your Brand]?” If the answer is vague, inaccurate, or says the model has no information, your entity signals are weak.Test category recommendation queries. Ask each platform to recommend vendors in your category: “Who are the best [category] providers for [audience]?” Note whether your brand appears, which competitors do, and in what position.Test informational queries your buyers use. Run the top five to ten questions your buyers ask during research. Check whether AI engines cite your content or surface competitors.Set up ongoing visibility tracking. Use AI visibility platforms to monitor citation rate, mention rate, and share of AI voice across a defined prompt set on a weekly or biweekly cadence.How to fix AI visibility issuesHow to fix AI visibility issues starts with addressing the six reasons in order of impact for your specific situation. The fixes below map directly to the diagnostic patterns above.1. Restructure your highest-value content for AI extractionRewrite your top traffic pages with answer-first formatting. Lead each section with a direct one-sentence definition or answer, use question-based H2s, and add FAQs sections that target real buyer queries in two to three sentences each.2. Build entity authority across trusted sourcesInvest in digital PR, Reddit and Quora presence, podcast appearances, guest contributions in industry publications, YouTube, and Wikipedia (where eligible). Every consistent mention in a trusted source adds weight to the signal AI engines use to decide whether to cite you.3. Add structured data to help AI extract meaningImplement JSON-LD schema markup for Organization, Product, FAQs, HowTo, and Article types where relevant. Structured data tells AI engines what your content is about, who you are, and how to categorize your offerings.4. Unblock AI crawlers in robots.txtVerify that GPTBot, ClaudeBot, PerplexityBot, and Google-Extended are not disallowed. If your content strategy includes AI citation as a goal, treat AI crawlers the same way you treat Googlebot.5. Align SEO with GEOTraditional SEO remains essential because AI engines draw from well-ranked organic sources, but SEO alone no longer guarantees AI visibility. Pair SEO investment with GEO practices: citation-friendly formatting, entity consistency, cross-platform authority building, and AI-readable structured content.6. Update and expand existing content for completenessRewrite thin or outdated pages with depth, specific data points, expert quotes, and consistent entity framing. AI engines favor content that provides complete coverage over content that scratches the surface.How long until your brand starts ranking in AI search resultsYour brand typically starts appearing in AI search results within two to 12 weeks of consistent optimization, with meaningful citation improvements usually visible within four to 12 weeks. The exact timeline depends on which AI platform you’re targeting.Real-time retrieval systems (Perplexity, Google AI Overviews): Technical fixes and content changes can surface within days to weeks because these platforms crawl live web content.Training-data-based systems (ChatGPT, Claude): Meaningful improvement takes three to six months because visibility depends on the model incorporating new signals during periodic training updates.Cross-platform authority (all AI engines): Building durable entity authority through PR, citations, and consistent mentions is a six-to-12-month compounding investment.Most brands see early wins from technical and content fixes within the first month, followed by compounding gains from authority building over the next two to three quarters.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	1 dead, 2 taken to hospital after apartment fire One person was killed in an apartment fire Friday morning.
	One dead, others injured after morning apartment fire in Davenport The fire occurred at the North Park Manor Apartments in Davenport.
	Ottumwa community honors high school graduate killed in crash hours after receiving diploma The Ottumwa community is coming together this week to honor a high school student who died in a crash Sunday night, just hours after receiving her diploma.
	Eastern Iowa woman sentenced for stealing more than $500K from veteran-owned business A Springville woman was sentenced Thursday to more than three years in federal prison for stealing more than $500,000 from a veteran-owned small business in Marion.
	Bitcoin Pizza Day, explained: The $41 pizza that became worth millions Bitcoin Pizza Day, explained: The $41 pizza that became worth millionsBitcoin Pizza Day marks one of the earliest and most important moments in cryptocurrency history: the first time Bitcoin was used to buy a physical good. On May 22, 2010, a man spent 10,000 Bitcoins on two pizzas — an amount worth about $41 dollars at the time.What makes this story so widely known today is how much those Bitcoins would be worth now. Due to the massive rise in the price of Bitcoin since then, that simple purchase has come to represent both the rapid growth of digital currency and the unpredictable nature of new technology. To understand why people still talk about it every year, SoFi looked back at how it all started.Key PointsBitcoin Pizza Day, May 22, 2010, celebrates the first commercial transaction using Bitcoin, when a man spent 10,000 BTC on two pizzas.This purchase demonstrated that Bitcoin could function as a real medium of exchange for goods outside of the traditional banking system.The 10,000 BTC spent on $41 of pizza in 2010 was worth more than $700 million in early 2026, though its price remains volatile.Bitcoin Pizza Day is celebrated annually on May 22 by eating pizza, sharing on social media, and participating in special corporate and charitable promotions.Bitcoin Pizza Day illustrates how new technologies may gain broader acceptance over time, though they can entail risks as well.What Is Bitcoin Pizza Day?Bitcoin Pizza Day is an annual celebration of the first commercial transaction using Bitcoin. On May 22, 2010, a Florida man effectively purchased two large Papa John’s pizzas with 10,000 Bitcoins. At the time, those 10,000 coins were equivalent to $41. Today, they are worth millions, making it widely considered the most expensive pizza purchase in history. Why May 22 Matters in Crypto HistoryMay 22 matters because it demonstrated, for the first time, that Bitcoin could function as more than just a theoretical or digital asset — it could be used as a real medium of exchange. Before this event, Bitcoin existed primarily among developers and early adopters who were experimenting with its potential.The pizza transaction on May 22, 2010, provided a clear, relatable example of how cryptocurrency could be used in everyday life, even if the long-term implications weren’t fully understood at the time.The Story Behind the $41 Bitcoin PizzaBitcoin Pizza Day started with a seemingly off-handed post on the forum Bitcointalk.org. A programmer named Laszlo Hanyecz posted that he would pay 10,000 bitcoins to anyone who’d be willing to make or order two pizzas for him and have them delivered to his home.Some posters were skeptical. One pointed out that it seemed like an expensive trade, since Hanyecz could sell his 10,000 coins for $41 in cash. When other forum commenters asked why he’d be willing to use his coins this way, Hanyecz said, “I just think it would be interesting if I could say that I paid for a pizza in Bitcoins.”However, a fellow forum user named Jeremy Sturdivant, then 19, accepted the offer, ordered two pizzas from Papa John’s, and had them delivered to Hanyecz. In exchange, Hanyecz made a manual transfer of 10,000 BTC to Sturdivant.It sounds simple now, but at the time, this was groundbreaking. Prior to Pizza Day, there were only a few exchanges where you could buy crypto, no specialized crypto payment processors, and Bitcoin’s price was determined mostly through informal agreements among users. Everything was experimental.Why This Transaction Was So ImportantThe May 22 pizza purchase represented that Bitcoin could be used as a medium of exchange outside of the traditional banking system. It showed that:Bitcoin could be used to buy goods.People were willing to accept it as payment.Digital currency had practical applications.How Much Is That Bitcoin Worth Today?Perhaps the most shocking part of the Bitcoin Pizza Day story isn’t the purchase itself but what those 10,000 Bitcoins would be worth today. As of April 17, 2026, one Bitcoin was trading at $76,800.05. This means that the 10,000 Bitcoins could be sold for $768 million.Then vs. Now: Tracking Bitcoin’s Value Over TimeBitcoin’s price has experienced massive growth (along with extreme volatility) since 2010, going from a fraction of a cent to tens of thousands of dollars per coin at its peak. This means the value of the 10,000 BTC used for pizza has skyrocketed into the millions — even hundreds of millions — depending on the market at any given time.The dramatic increase highlights both the potential and the unpredictability of cryptocurrency.What Bitcoin Was Worth in 2010In 2010, Bitcoin was essentially in its infancy, having launched only a year earlier. At the time of the pizza purchase, 1 BTC was worth less than $0.01, making the 10,000 BTC transaction equal to about $41.The Peak Value of 10,000 BitcoinFollowing the historic “Pizza Day,” Bitcoin was listed on exchanges at incredibly low prices (fractions of a cent) before hitting the $1 mark in early 2011. Since that milestone, its valuation has fluctuated wildly, setting numerous records and surging past $122,000 by July 2025.As of April 17, one Bitcoin is trading at $76,800.05. This means that the 10,000 Bitcoins could be sold for $768 million.What Drives Bitcoin Price ChangesBitcoin’s price changes constantly due to market volatility. A number of factors impact Bitcoin’s price, including:Supply and demand: Bitcoin has a fixed supply (only 21 million will ever exist), so when more people want to buy it than sell it, the price typically rises. When demand drops, the price generally falls.Investor sentiment: Prices often move based on how people feel about Bitcoin’s future. Positive news or hype can drive prices up, while fear or uncertainty can cause sell-offs.Technological developments: Improvements to Bitcoin’s network or broader crypto innovation can increase trust and usability, which may raise its value. On the flip side, crypto safety concerns or potential issues can hurt confidence.Regulatory news: Government actions, such as new laws or restrictions on cryptocurrency, can significantly impact prices. Supportive regulation may boost confidence, while a crackdown can lead to declines.Macroeconomic trends: Larger economic factors — like inflation, interest rates, or global financial instability — can influence Bitcoin’s price, as some investors see it as an alternative to traditional assets.Unlike fiat (traditional) currencies, Bitcoin isn’t controlled by any government or central bank, which makes its prices more sensitive to market behavior. This is why the value of those 10,000 Bitcoins isn’t fixed — it changes in real-time, 24/7, based on what buyers are willing to pay.How People Celebrate Bitcoin Pizza Day TodayBitcoin Pizza Day is celebrated in a variety of ways, most notably by eating pizza to mark this milestone in cryptocurrency history. Fans often share photos of themselves on social media enjoying a slice using the hashtag #BitcoinPizzaDay.The community also gathers in crypto forums and on Reddit to discuss the day’s history and the evolution of digital currency. Many take a moment to jokingly lament that Jeremy Sturdivant didn’t “HODL” (hold) his coins; he sold them for around $400, missing his chance to see those Bitcoins turn into millions over time.Many cryptocurrency companies and businesses participate by offering discounts on pizza when paying in crypto, limited-time promotions or giveaways, or special online events. Some pizza chains and food delivery platforms even join in, using the story as an opportunity to connect with tech-savvy audiences.The day is also a time for charitable giving. Some nonprofits run fundraising campaigns encouraging gifts equivalent to the original 10,000 Bitcoin transaction, sometimes raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for their causes.Why the Bitcoin Pizza Story Still MattersBitcoin Pizza Day is more than just a date on a calendar. It’s the first example of real-world adoption of digital currency as a legitimate means of payment.How New Technologies Gain Value Over TimeIn Bitcoin’s case, a simple pizza order became the tipping point for what had previously been viewed as a niche experiment. While it may seem trivial that a pizza delivery could spark a global digital currency movement, Bitcoin Pizza Day illustrates how emerging technologies build acceptance and trust over time.The rise of new innovations often follows a four-part progression:Experimental phase: During this period, the technology is characterized as having limited practical utility and is understood only by a small circle of specialists.Adoption phase: This is when a broader demographic of users begins to see the potential and functional value of the innovation.Growth phase: During this stage, the technology undergoes a period of rapid expansion and increasing demand.Maturity phase: Finally, the technology achieves the status of widespread societal acceptance, becoming an integrated and standard fixture of daily life.Early Ideas Can Have Unexpected OutcomesBitcoin is widely recognized as a revolutionary technology. Originally intended as an upgrade to earlier digital currencies, Bitcoin is now the foundation of the cryptocurrency industry.Bitcoin demonstrated that blockchain and decentralization are effective tools for global currency movement. Blockchain technology has since expanded beyond Bitcoin to support decentralized finance (DeFi), nonfungible tokens (NFTs), global money transfers, and corporate trade finance. The widespread adoption of blockchain by major companies and financial institutions highlights the massive impact of Nakamoto’s original concept.The Role of Community in Bitcoin’s GrowthWhile Bitcoin’s rise is often associated with the legendary “Bitcoin Pizza Day,” its true expansion was powered by early adopters who saw its long-term potential.Online forums and digital communities have been — and remain — essential in building the trust necessary for global adoption. By demystifying Bitcoin and other types of cryptocurrency, these communities have led the charge in educating the public. Ultimately, Bitcoin culture is defined by its dedication to innovation, financial empowerment, and autonomy from traditional banking systems.The TakeawayBitcoin Pizza Day stands as a landmark event because it proved that cryptocurrency could function as a tangible medium of exchange. Bitcoin’s growth can be attributed at least in part to one person’s curiosity about whether it would be possible to use digital currency to buy a snack in the real world.While Bitcoin’s history and potential for rapid price increases are exciting, the danger of losing money is equally real. It’s important for anyone entering the market to be cautious and fully understand the risks associated with cryptocurrencies before making a move.FAQDid someone really pay 10,000 Bitcoins for pizza?Yes, someone really did pay 10,000 Bitcoins for two pizzas. On May 22, 2010, programmer Laszlo Hanyecz offered 10,000 BTC on an online forum for anyone who would order and deliver two large pizzas to him. A fellow user accepted the offer, marking the first recorded commercial transaction using Bitcoin for a physical good. At the time, the coins were worth about $41. Today, that amount of Bitcoin would be worth millions of dollars.What day is Bitcoin Pizza Day?Bitcoin Pizza Day is celebrated every year on May 22. This date marks the anniversary of the first documented commercial transaction using Bitcoin, which occurred on May 22, 2010. On that day, Laszlo Hanyecz spent 10,000 Bitcoins (worth about $41 at the time) to buy two Papa John’s pizzas. The day is recognized globally as a major milestone in cryptocurrency history, demonstrating Bitcoin’s potential as a real medium of exchange.How much was 1 Bitcoin worth on Pizza Day?At the time of the transaction on May 22, 2010, 1 Bitcoin was worth significantly less than a penny (less than $0.01). The total value of the 10,000 Bitcoins spent on the two pizzas was only about $41.What happened to the guy who paid 10,000 Bitcoin for pizza?Laslzo Hanyecz, who paid 10,000 Bitcoins for two pizzas on May 22, 2010, reportedly spent close to 100,000 Bitcoins paying for pizza and other purchases throughout 2010. In interviews since then, he has said he doesn’t regret using his coins to buy pizza. Hanyecz no longer gives interviews so it’s unclear if he still owns any Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.This story was produced by SoFi and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Sterling Police seek arson suspect Police in Sterling are looking for a woman in connection with an arson case. A news release from the Sterling Police Department said Marcella M. Dingman, 52, is wanted on a Whiteside County arrest warrant for aggravated arson in connection with an incident on May 14 in the 200 block of 1st Avenue in Sterling. [...]
	Mediacom awards scholarships to four Illinois QCA seniors Mediacom Communications has announced the selection of two seniors at Sherrard High School, and two seniors at United Township High School, as recipients of the company’s World Class Scholarship Program. The $1,000 scholarship recognizes the winners for excellence in leadership, community involvement, and academics. At Sherrard, the selected seniors are Grace Bohnert of Milan and [...]
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	The complete guide to IEEPA tariff refunds The complete guide to IEEPA tariff refundsRecent legal developments have opened the door to significant tariff refunds under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). For business owners, this presents both an opportunity and a compliance challenge. Importers should file protests promptly to protect their rights and eligibility for refunds during the administrative review cycle.This guide from Polston Tax clarifies what the ruling means, who qualifies and how to act. You will find clear explanations, practical steps and key deadlines to help you navigate the refund process with confidence and accuracy.Key TakeawaysUp to $175 billion in refunds may be available to qualifying importers affected by now-unlawful IEEPA tariffs.Businesses must take proactive steps to identify eligibility and file claims within strict deadlines.Only certain importers, primarily the Importer of Record (IOR), meet the official eligibility criteria.The ruling applies only to IEEPA tariffs, not Section 232 or Section 301 duties.What Are IEEPA Tariffs and Why Were They Ruled Unlawful?On Feb. 20, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision to implement the Trump tariff refund bill.IEEPA tariffs were imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, a law that allows the executive branch to regulate commerce during declared national emergencies. These tariffs were introduced as part of broader trade and foreign policy measures, often targeting goods tied to specific geopolitical concerns.The legal challenge was whether using IEEPA to impose tariffs exceeded the authority granted by the statute. The Supreme Court ultimately determined that the tariffs weren’t implemented within the right legal framework. The ruling clarified that, while IEEPA grants broad powers, it doesn’t authorize tariff measures as applied in this case.As a result, duties collected under these tariffs are now subject to refund, creating a pathway for affected businesses to recover funds.In practice, these tariffs increased costs for U.S. importers across a wide range of industries. Businesses paid these duties at the time of import, often passing the costs through supply chains or absorbing them by reducing margins. Close to 60% of companies saw gross margin decrease due to these tariffs.Determining Your Eligibility for a RefundBefore taking action, you must confirm whether your business meets the eligibility requirements. This process involves reviewing import records, understanding tariff classifications and distinguishing IEEPA duties from other trade measures. Polston Tax Who Qualifies for an IEEPA Tariff Refund?Eligibility depends on whether your business served as the IOR when the goods entered the U.S. The IOR is the entity legally responsible for ensuring compliance with customs regulations and for paying applicable duties.To qualify for a refund, businesses must meet these eligibility requirements:Already listed as the IOR on the entry documentation.Have paid tariffs specifically imposed under IEEPA authority.Provide supporting documentation, including entry summaries and payment records.In some cases, third parties, such as customs brokers, facilitated the findings, but eligibility remains tied to the entity listed as the IOR. If your business indirectly bore the cost, such as through supplier pricing, it may not qualify unless it was the official importer.In addition to meeting IOR requirements, eligibility is tied to a clearly defined period during which the tariffs were in effect, and duties were collected. Confirm that your imports entered the U.S. between Feb. 1, 2025, and Feb. 20, 2026 — the specific window covered by the ruling.Identifying Affected Imports and HTS CodesDetermining which imports are eligible means using a detailed review of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes. These codes classify imported goods and determine applicable duty rates.To identify affected imports:Review the historical import data and entry summaries.Find the HTS codes associated with goods imported during the relevant period.Cross-reference those codes with lists of products subject to IEEPA tariffs.The process may need you to coordinate between finance, procurement and compliance teams. It’s critical to classify each import accurately, as errors can delay or invalidate claims. If your business has high import volumes, you may benefit from automated data analysis tools or external expertise to ensure a complete and accurate review.Beyond reviewing HTS codes, your business can strengthen its claims by reinforcing publicly available tariff lists and product classifications relevant to IEEPA enforcement.Government and trade agencies release product categories that are impacted most frequently, which commonly include:Industrial machinery and mechanical components.Electrical equipment and consumer electronics.Raw materials and intermediate goods used in manufacturing.Certain chemical products and inputs.Selected finished goods tied to targeted trade measures.Differentiating IEEPA Tariffs From Section 232 and 301 TariffsIt’s essential to distinguish IEEPA tariffs from other trade measures — particularly Sections 232 and 301 tariffs:Section 232 tariffs are based on national security concerns and typically apply to materials such as aluminum and steel.Section 301 tariffs address unfair trade practices and are often associated with imports from specific countries, such as China.Only tariffs imposed under IEEPA are eligible for these refunds. Section 232, Section 301 and Most-Favored Nation (MFN) tariffs are explicitly excluded from the refund process.The Refund Recovery PathsThere are several potential pathways to recovering IEEPA tariff payments. Each option depends on the status of the original import entries and any prior actions taken.Some businesses pursue administrative solutions through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), especially if entries stay open or within protest periods. This is the main avenue for refunds, using the new Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) System in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Portal, which went live on April 20, 2026. Others may need to file formal claims or initiate legal action through the Court of International Trade (CIT).CBP’s CAPE Automated Refund SystemEach import entry’s liquidation status is another important factor. Liquidation refers to the final consumption and duty assessment by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Unliquidated entries or those within the allowable protest window typically offer the most direct path to recovery. In these cases, businesses can pursue administrative corrections or protests, which are more likely to result in a timely resolution.This distinction highlights the importance of segmenting import data by liquidation status early in the process. Doing so lets companies prioritize claims with the highest recovery probability while developing strategies for more complex cases.CBP has introduced a four-step CAPE framework to refund approximately $166 billion in duties to over 330,000 importers. In this initial phase, the CAPE system accepts submissions for entries marked as suspended, extended, or under review. However, CBP will only process refunds for unliquidated entries or those within the current 90-day voluntary reliquidation period. CBP plans to expand eligibility to liquidated entries in the future.For validated entries, CBP will remove the corresponding HTS codes, recalculate duties, and move the entry through the standard liquidation process. Polston Tax The Step-by-Step Tariff Refund ProcessClaiming a refund requires careful coordination and attention to detail. It’s beneficial to use a tax professional to support you through the IRS or state taxing entity appeals process, as each step builds on the previous one, making thorough preparation crucial.Step 1: Conducting an Internal Data ReviewThe first step is conducting an internal import data review. Note entry numbers, dates and the amount of tariffs paid. This process involves gathering all relevant documentation for import entries that were subject to IEEPA tariffs, including:Entry summaries on CBP Form 7501Commercial invoicesPayment records for duties and feesHTS classifications used at the time of importAnalyze this data to identify entries subject to IEEPA tariffs. During this step, you may uncover discrepancies or classification issues that need to be addressed before you file a claim. For larger organizations, cross-functional collaboration is key to capturing all relevant imports.Step 2: Using CBP’s CAPE SystemCBP’s ACE system is the primary interface for filing refunds and post-summary corrections once you’ve collected the relevant paperwork. Through ACE, businesses can:Submit post-summary corrections for eligible entries.File protests for entries within the set time frame.Track the status of submitted claims.Businesses unfamiliar with ACE may rely on customs brokers or internal compliance specialists to manage filings. Regardless of who submits the claim, the IOR remains responsible for its accuracy. To file through CAPE, your business should:Upload entry data and supporting documentation directly onto the platform.Validate classifications and duty amounts using system checks.Submit refund requests or corrections tied to specific entry numbers.Monitor claim progress through real-time status updates.CAPE supports bulk submissions, which are useful for businesses managing large volumes of entries. Built-in validation tools help identify inconsistencies before submission, reducing the likelihood of delays.Step 3: Filing a Claim With CITIn some cases, administrative remedies aren’t enough. Businesses may need to file a claim with the CIT when:Administrative claim deadlines have passed.Previous protests were denied.Significant refund amounts justify legal action.Filing with the CIT involves a more formal process, including legal pleadings and adherence to court procedures. While this route can extend timelines, it may be necessary to preserve the right to recover funds. With CIT claims, you’ll face additional statutory limits. These deadlines are often measured from the date of a denied protest or other triggering event. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar recovery, regardless of the claim’s merits.The earliest deadline for commencing litigation is Feb. 3, 2027, which is two years from the date of the first IEEPA tariff payments.Critical Timelines and Deadlines You Need to KnowIt’s essential to act quickly. Refund opportunities are tied to strict deadlines, and missing them can mean missing out on recovering funds. Key timelines include:Protest filing deadlines are typically within 80 days of liquidation.Post-summary correction windows are generally limited to a set period after entry.Statutory deadlines for filing claims with the CIT.Potential government-established deadlines specific to IEEPA refund processes.The statutes of limitations vary based on the procedural path. To manage this, businesses should map each entry against its applicable deadlines. A proactive approach ensures that no viable claims are lost due to timing constraints. Under 28 U.S.C. § 2636(i), you have a two-year statute of limitations for filing in the CIT under residual jurisdiction. Accrual dates start from the tariff payment date, which may include:Feb. 4, 2027, for fentanyl IEEPA tariffs.March 4, 2027, for Canada and Mexico IEEPA tariffs.April 5, 2027, for reciprocal tariffs.Aug. 6, 2027, for Brazil IEEPA tariffs.Aug.27, 2027, for India IEEPA tariffs.Strategically Managing Your RefundSecuring a refund is only part of the opportunity. Managing the financial impact requires careful planning.You should evaluate how the recovery will affect your business’s current and prior reporting periods. Key tax considerations include:Whether refunds are considered taxable income in the year received.The need to amend previous tax returns if deductions were previously claimed for tariff expenses.The impact on the cost of goods sold and inventory valuation.State and local tax treatment, which can differ from federal rules.Potential implications for transfer pricing and intercompany transactions.Reinvestment strategy also plays a key role in maximizing the value of your recovered funds. You may consider allocating capital toward supply chain diversification, technology upgrades or operational expansion.Maintaining strong trade compliance practices is equally important. This includes regularly reviewing tariff classifications, monitoring regulatory changes and documenting import processes. Strengthened compliance reduces future risk and positions the business to respond quickly to similar opportunities. This process includes:Mapping and auditing entries.Managing any government contracts.Maintaining meticulous records.Monitoring future tariffs.A disciplined approach ensures that refunds are not only recovered but also used to support long-term growth and stability.Moving Forward With Clarity and ConfidenceIEEPA tariff refunds are a good opportunity for eligible importers. The Supreme Court’s decision has opened the door to recovering substantial funds, but success depends on timely and informed action.By moving quickly, understanding eligibility, identifying affected imports and following the right recovery pathways, your business can position itself to claim what it’s owed. The process demands diligence, but the potential rewards justify this effort.This story was produced by Polston Tax and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Understanding life expectancy trends in the United States Understanding life expectancy trends in the United StatesLife expectancy is a measure of how long, on average, a person is expected to live. In the United States, life expectancy has undergone significant changes over the past century. While it increased dramatically during the 20th century, recent years have seen some fluctuations, largely due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Doctronic reports.Key TakeawaysAmerican longevity increased 58% over 119 years—from 50 years in 1900 to nearly 79 years by 2019—primarily due to vaccines eliminating childhood diseases, antibiotics treating infections, and infant mortality dropping from 165 deaths per 1,000 births to just 6 per 1,000.The 2020 pandemic triggered a 1.5-year decline in average lifespan, the steepest single-year drop since World War II, with deaths disproportionately affecting adults aged 25-44 (increasing 26.5%) and communities of color.Recovery began accelerating in 2023 as vaccination rates exceeded 70% nationally, antiviral treatments like Paxlovid reduced severe outcomes by 89%, and excess mortality returned closer to pre-pandemic levels.Significant disparities persist, with women outliving men by approximately 6 years and substantial gaps between racial groups—white Americans averaging 78.8 years compared to 74.8 years for Black Americans as of recent data.These demographic shifts directly impact Social Security projections, Medicare planning, and retirement age recommendations, with financial planners now factoring pandemic-related longevity changes into 30-year retirement calculations.The 20th Century: A Time of Rapid IncreaseIn 1900, life expectancy in the United States was only about 50 years. This means that, on average, a person born in 1900 could expect to live until around 1950. However, over the course of the 20th century, life expectancy in the country increased dramatically. By 2019, it had risen to nearly 79 years.Several factors contributed to this increase, including:Advances in medical knowledge and technologyImprovements in sanitation and hygieneBetter nutrition and access to foodDeclining infant mortality ratesImproved medications, especially antibioticsRecent Fluctuations: The Impact of the COVID-19 PandemicFrom 2020 to 2022, life expectancy in the United States started to drop. One of the main reasons for this decline was the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus, which first emerged in late 2019, spread rapidly around the world, causing widespread illness and death.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), life expectancy in the United States declined by 1.5 years in 2020, largely due to the impact of the pandemic. This was the largest single-year decline since World War II.2023: A Rebound in Life ExpectancyIn 2023, life expectancy in the United States started to rise again. This rebound can be attributed to several factors, including:Widespread vaccination against COVID-19Improved treatment options for those infected with the virusA gradual return to normalcy as the pandemic wanedWhile it's too early to say for certain, experts believe that life expectancy will continue to increase in the coming years, assuming no major new health crises emerge.The Importance of Understanding Life Expectancy TrendsUnderstanding trends in life expectancy is important for several reasons. It can help policymakers and healthcare providers plan for the future, allocate resources appropriately, and identify areas where interventions may be needed to improve public health.For individuals, understanding life expectancy trends can provide valuable perspective on their own health and longevity. It can also help inform decisions about retirement planning, insurance needs, and other long-term considerations.To learn more about life expectancy and how it's calculated, check out these resources:World Health Organization - Mortality and Global Health EstimatesNational Institutes of Health - Causes of America’s Lagging Life Expectancy: An International Comparative PerspectivePersonal Factors That Shape Your LongevityWhile national life expectancy reflects broad public health trends, individual longevity depends heavily on personal health behaviors and consistent access to care. Research consistently points to a handful of modifiable factors with outsized impact on how long and how well a person lives.Smoking remains one of the largest individual risk factors, linked to reduced life expectancy and higher rates of heart disease, chronic lung disease, and several cancers. The body starts to recover soon after the last cigarette, and quitting smoking at any age can meaningfully shift long-term health outcomes.Other key factors include managing blood pressure and cholesterol, staying physically active, eating a nutrient-rich diet, keeping up with recommended screenings, and addressing mental health concerns early. None of these guarantees additional years, but together they tilt the odds toward both longer life and better quality of life as you age.The Bottom LineWhile American longevity rebounded strongly after the pandemic's temporary setback, understanding these trends helps with long-term health and financial planning decisions. Demographic factors, vaccination status, and access to preventive care significantly influence individual outcomes. If you want personalized guidance on how longevity trends might affect your health planning, Doctronic can provide quick, evidence-based answers.This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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	Finding middle ground in the solar debate with agrivoltaics Finding middle ground in the solar debate with agrivoltaicsSolar energy development has become a hot-button issue in recent years as Trump officials block funding to solar projects over concerns about losing prime farmland to renewables.But advocates say this worry — which is often shared by the communities closest to proposed solar projects — could be assuaged by agrivoltaics, which combines solar and farming, The Daily Yonder reports.For many years, agrivoltaics have been limited to sheep grazing under solar panels, but a growing number of case studies show almost every type of livestock and crop can be raised successfully using agrivoltaics (with the exception of some tall crops, like corn, that can grow higher than the panels).Even with federal disinvestments in renewables, the solar industry is expected to be the fastest-growing power generator over the next two years, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Gas shortages caused by the United States-Israel war with Iran, which has targeted major oil export hubs in the Middle East, have provided even more reason to find alternative energy sources to oil.But the vast majority of solar energy is expected to come from farmland, according to the American Farmland Trust. About 83% of new solar developments are currently being installed on farms and ranches. That means solar developers, farmers, and rural neighbors will have to find some sort of middle ground as the need for renewable energy grows.Agrivoltaics could be that answer. A 2023 study published in Energy Policy showed that large-scale agrivoltaics projects receive less public backlash than large-scale solar projects on farmland. A 2024 survey by the Solar and Storage Industries Institute found that 70% of farmers were open to solar on farmland, if it brought them supplementary income and they could farm around or under the panels.“Rural Americans want to see rural America continue to look like the community they grew up in,” said David Gahl, executive director of the Solar and Storage Industries Institute, in a Daily Yonder interview. “That’s why I think agrivoltaics shows a lot of promise, because you get the benefits of both having agricultural production continue, and you’re not changing the community character of a place.”The Institute will be releasing a new survey this fall that polls the neighbors of solar projects about their attitudes toward solar. While the survey has yet to be published, Gahl said it proved neighbors are more amenable to solar if it incorporates farming, and especially if the project is beneficial to the larger community.“[Their responses] show to me that rural communities want to maintain the character of the places where they live, and we have to figure out ways to do that that make economic sense for all parties,” he said.Making economic sense for the farmers and solar developers is relatively straightforward. Solar developments usually come to fruition when a developer approaches a farmer with a lease agreement. The developer pays the farmer for the use of their land and takes on the cost of site design and construction materials. Once designed, the developer either hands off the project to a different firm that builds the actual solar panels or they retain the project and build it themselves, selling the power off to a utility or a power grid.“[Agrivoltaics] is enabling new financial freedom for farmers, and that is what resonates with folks the most, even the biggest anti-solar voices,” said Lucy Bullock-Sieger, co-founder of the Solar & Farming Association, which represents a coalition of different agrivoltaics organizations.From 2017 to 2024, 160,000 U.S. farms went out of business. Advocates say solar could provide farmers an opportunity to diversify their income source while allowing them to remain in business and maintain a version of the rural farming landscape neighbors are accustomed to seeing.But making sure the community finds a benefit from the project will also be vital — and could be the most challenging part of implementing widespread agrivoltaics.Between 2018 and 2023, an estimated 30% of large-scale solar and wind projects were canceled because of community opposition, according to a study from Columbia Law School’s Sabin Center. By the end of 2024, the study found that 459 counties and municipalities in 44 states had adopted restrictions to renewable energy siting. That’s a 16% increase in local restrictions in just one year.In a recent Mother Jones article about the debate over solar on farmland, one neighbor against a proposed development in Oregon said “Anything that changes land offends me, if it isn’t farming or wetlands.”This attitude seems to be shared in other states as well. In 2025, local restrictions on renewable energy siting increased 32% country-wide from 2024. This aligns with the Trump administration’s ongoing disinvestment in renewable energy programs, like the recent cancellation of a new grant cycle for the Rural Energy for America program that provided farmers and rural communities money to install solar panels.“Some communities are getting fatigued by solar,” said Iain Ward, a cranberry grower who is a tenant farmer under an agrivoltaics array in Massachusetts and has since become an agrivoltaics advocate. He has witnessed communities be approached by projects that did not align with what was historically farmed in the region. Those agrivoltaics projects are what receive the most backlash.“When we’re talking about solar projects being on farmland, tailoring the project and its spacing to what crops have historically been produced and engaging with the farmer to continue producing them under the array can change that,” Ward said. “The community is more likely to say, ‘Oh, you are actually listening to us, you are actually respecting our community, our heritage, and the agricultural infrastructure we have.’”While the federal disinvestment in renewables and negative attitudes toward solar have certainly slowed progress, solar advocates say it’s unlikely it will totally stop them.“With the level of interest and number of farmers and solar developers who are experimenting on their own already, we’re going to see continued innovation in the agrivoltaic space,” said Gahl of the Solar and Storage Industries Institute.“Without support from the executive branch, you’re still going to see innovation, you’re just not going to see it move as quickly.”This story was produced by The Daily Yonder and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	1 dead, multiple injured following apartment fire in Davenport Davenport's fire chief shares new information regarding the apartment fire on the 1400 block of East 39th Street.
	1 dead, multiple residents injured after Davenport apartment fire Davenport's fire chief told News 8 they received the call around 5:30 Friday morning for smoke coming from the North Park Manor Apartments.
	You inherited a retirement account. Now what? You inherited a retirement account. Now what?Losing a loved one can also bring financial and administrative responsibilities, and the added complexity of managing inherited retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and Roth IRAs can make these times even more challenging. Each type of account comes with its own set of rules for withdrawing assets, and understanding these can help you make the most of your inheritance in a tax-efficient way. With that in mind, Bernstein Private Wealth Management recommends what to do when you inherit a retirement account.Study Beneficiary Designation FormsUnless the estate is named as the beneficiary or the participant fails to execute a beneficiary designation form, retirement accounts are considered nonprobate assets. That simply means the transfer of these accounts is not dictated by the terms of a decedent’s will but rather by a beneficiary designation form—a legal document specifying who receives benefits when a participant dies. For this reason, it’s crucial to routinely update beneficiary designations to reflect the decedent’s true wishes. Far too often, information becomes obsolete in the wake of marriages, divorces, births, and other life-changing events that may alter who a decedent wants to inherit their assets.The Power of Qualified DisclaimersWhile the beneficiary designation form is the guiding document, what happens if the designated beneficiary is not the optimal choice? Although beneficiary designation forms can’t be altered after the participant’s death, primary beneficiaries who wish to reject their inheritance can execute a qualified disclaimer (per IRC § 2518). Rooted in the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), this mechanism lets beneficiaries redirect assets to another individual, known as a “contingent beneficiary,” without triggering gift taxes or federal estate taxes. Keep in mind, the contingent beneficiary automatically becomes the next inheritor—the primary beneficiary cannot control who inherits in their place.There are many reasons one might opt to use this estate planning tool. Perhaps a beneficiary already has substantial assets and would prefer their children or spouse enjoy the inheritance in their place. To execute a qualified disclaimer, the primary beneficiary must issue the request in writing and deliver it to the executor or trustee within nine months of the decedent’s death. During that time, that beneficiary may not receive any portion of those assets. More importantly, qualified disclaimers are irrevocable, where disclaimants will be treated as if they never received the gift in the first place.Know Your Retirement Account TypesWhether it’s a traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or 401(k), each type of inherited retirement account carries distinct tax treatment rules. Consider the following implications:Withdrawals from traditional IRAs and 401(k)s are generally taxed as ordinary income. This effectively means that the amount a beneficiary withdraws will supplement their taxable income for a given year, potentially lifting them into a higher tax bracket. On the other hand, withdrawals from Roth IRA and Roth 401(k) accounts are typically tax free. This can be tremendously advantageous, especially if you anticipate graduating to a higher tax bracket in the future.Special Considerations for Employer-Sponsored PlanIf you inherit an employer-sponsored plan like a 401(k), it’s important to determine whether the account contains appreciated employer securities. In these situations, you may have the option to withdraw the appreciated securities as a lump sum, with only the cost basis—the original purchase value of the shares—being subject to ordinary income tax rates. The net unrealized appreciation (NUA), which is the increase in value of the securities since their purchase, can be taxed at the more favorable capital gains rate when the shares are eventually sold. This approach can offer significant tax advantages (per IRC § 402(e)(4) and Rev. Rul. 75-125, 1975-1 C.B. 254).Minimum Distribution Requirements (RMDs)Required minimum distributions (RMDs) are the sums of cash that beneficiaries must annually withdraw from inherited IRAs and retirement plans; the penalty for missing an RMD is a 25% excise tax on the amount not withdrawn, reducible to 10% if corrected within two years. Generally speaking, the timing and amount of RMDs depend on the beneficiary’s relationship to the deceased account holder and whether or not the account holder began taking RMDs before their death. If the account holder had already begun taking RMDs but died before completing the distribution in the year of their death, the remaining balance must be distributed to the beneficiary by the end of that year. Bernstein Private Wealth Management Evaluate Withdrawal OptionsFor those inheriting a retirement account, it’s important to assess your financial needs and tax situation when curating a withdrawal strategy—whether that involves a lump-sum payment, periodic distributions, or a stretch distribution. Here are some key points to consider:Design an Optimal Withdrawal Plan: Factor in your tax situation, the size of the inherited retirement accounts and your long-term financial goals. Strategies may include withdrawing funds from taxable accounts before accessing retirement accounts to maximize tax efficiency.Traditional Retirement Accounts: Lean into the tax-deferred growth potential of inherited traditional retirement accounts. Withdrawing funds too quickly can lead to adverse tax consequences. Beneficiaries should strive to let their assets grow in a tax-deferred manner for as long as possible.Eligible Designated Beneficiaries: In some cases, when a participant dies before their Required Beginning Date (RBD), an eligible designated beneficiary may benefit more from the 10-year rule (no annual distributions for 10 years) rather than the lifetime stretch — though this election is irrevocable and applies to all subsequent beneficiaries once made (per Reg. § 1.401(a)(9)-3(c)(5)(iii)).Crafting a Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategy: Develop a withdrawal strategy that considers both maximum withdrawal rates and tax-efficient sequencing to minimize your overall tax burden.Managing Unrealized Capital Gains: Beneficiaries with significant unrealized capital gains in their taxable accounts may want to deplete inherited retirement accounts to preserve these taxable account assets for a potential step-up in cost basis when transferred to future heirs.Inherited retirement accounts demand a clear understanding of tax implications, financial needs, and investment strategies. With careful planning and professional guidance, you can navigate the complexities of inherited retirement accounts and make the most of your financial legacy.This story was produced by Bernstein Private Wealth Management and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	5 home renovations worth completing this summer, and 2 that can wait until fall 2026 5 home renovations worth completing this summer, and 2 that can wait until fall 2026Warmer temperatures, longer days, and drier conditions make summer one of the most practical times to tackle home improvement projects. Fewer weather delays mean that both homeowners who DIY and hire contractors can complete work faster, and many materials — from concrete to caulk — will perform better.The timing also connects to a broader shift in how Americans are thinking about their homes. With mortgage rates hovering near 6.5% and the cost of moving still steep, more homeowners are choosing to stay put and invest in the homes they have. According to the 2026 U.S. Houzz & Home Study — the largest annual survey of residential renovation activity — 44% of homeowners now describe their current home as their "forever home," and nearly two-thirds plan to remain in their homes for 11 or more years. Renovation activity held steady through 2025, with a median spend of $20,000 among homeowners who completed projects.Whether or not a sale is on the horizon for you, summer is the time to get projects done and actually enjoy the results. Hometap shares five renovations worth scheduling before the season ends, plus two that are better left for fall.1. Improve Your Outdoor Patio or Seating AreaOutdoor improvements are among the most popular projects right now. In a 2025 Fixr survey of 52 experts, 56% of home improvement experts said outdoor and backyard upgrades as a growing priority for homeowners. For those without the budget or yard space for a full deck addition, a simpler outdoor seating area can deliver much of the same value. Low-cost DIY options, such as furniture built from concrete blocks and foam pads, can create a functional space without a major investment. Adding a fire pit makes the space even more flexible for cooler evenings.2. Replace Your WindowsDrafty or damaged windows can significantly increase a home's energy costs. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that upgrading to ENERGY STAR-qualified windows can reduce annual household energy bills by 7% to 15%, for savings of roughly $71 to $501 per year, depending on location and window type; for homes with older single-pane windows, it can be even more. Signs that windows are due for an update include visible warping or breakage, opening and closing difficulties, and persistent drafts even after caulking has been applied.3. Fix or Install a New DoorDoors commonly swell and stick in summer's heat and humidity, making the warmer months a natural time to notice and address problems. Minor sticking can typically be resolved with sanding and varnishing. Sagging doors may require hardware replacement. If a door is significantly damaged, have a new, climate-appropriate door properly installed.Entry door replacement is also among the highest-ROI projects in the Journal of Light Construction’s 2025 Cost vs. Value Report: A steel entry door replacement returned approximately 216% of its cost at resale, meaning the typical project more than pays for itself in added home value.4. Upgrade or Repave Your DrivewayDriveways add to curb appeal — and summer's dry conditions are ideal for asphalt or concrete work, which requires warmth for proper curing. Projects might include refinishing an existing surface, widening the driveway for additional parking, or switching materials entirely. Gravel, pavers, and specialty materials like crushed shell work well in certain climates and architectural styles.A well-maintained or newly paved driveway can improve a buyer’s first impression of a home, so it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re considering a sale.5. Pressure Wash Your Home's ExteriorOne of the lower-cost, higher-visibility projects on any summer list, pressure washing removes built-up dirt, sediment, mold, and mildew from a home's exterior surfaces. Beyond aesthetics, regular pressure washing can prevent organic buildup from causing longer-term damage to siding, decking, and masonry.You can rent equipment for a DIY approach, though professional services reduce the risk of surface damage and ensure thorough coverage of hard-to-reach areas.Plan Ahead: Two Projects Better Left for Fall1. Paint Your Home’s ExteriorWhile painting crews are active in summer, it's not actually the optimal time for this work. Most exterior latex paint performs best when applied between 50°F and 90°F — but in peak summer heat, surface temperatures can climb well above the air temperature, causing paint to dry too quickly and resulting in poor adhesion or visible streaking. Cooler fall days, before temperatures drop below 50°F, generally produce better results.2. Repair and Refinish Your FloorsSummer heat and humidity can temporarily expand or warp hardwood floors, making it difficult to accurately assess the full scope of damage. Waiting until fall — when floors have contracted back to their normal state — gives you a better idea of what actually needs repair versus replacement. Fall's lower humidity also creates better conditions for adhesives and finishes used in floor refinishing.How Can You Fund Summer Renovations?Homeowners who want to tackle multiple projects at once, or take on a larger renovation, often turn to their home equity to fund the work. According to ICE Mortgage Technology's June 2025 Mortgage Monitor report, American mortgage holders collectively held a record $17.6 trillion in home equity entering Q2 2025, with $11.5 trillion of that considered "tappable," meaning available to borrow while maintaining at least a 20% equity cushion. The average homeowner with a mortgage sits on $212,000 of tappable equity. Home equity loans, home equity lines of credit, cash-out refinances, and home equity investments are all popular ways to leverage into home equity.This story was produced by Hometap and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Moline man sentenced to federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon He was arrested on Dec. 31, 2024, after a shots-fired incident in Rock Island.
	Crews battle apartment fire Crews responded at about 6:30 a.m. to the 1400 block of East 39th Street.
	Pleasant Valley School District principal retirement, resignations, hirings from May 11 school board agenda The following personnel items are from the May 11 of the Pleasant Valley School District. The School Board met at Belmont Administration Center at 525 Belmont Rd., Riverdale, Iowa.
	The Arc of the Quad Cities Area rebrands Community Supports Program to Limitless Living The organization emphasized that the rebranding does not change the services, staffing or mission behind the program.
	Four Republicans compete for three spots in Scott County supervisor primary Scott County Republicans will narrow a four-candidate supervisor field to three in the June 2 primary. Here's where the candidates stand on taxes, spending and county oversight dominate the race.
	Few showers usher in more heat and humidity The Quad Cities will see a few sprinkles or showers today with a better chance of a few more later Saturday. It'll stay pleasant today and warm some Saturday. A big warm-up is on the way for Memorial Day. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Retirements, hirings and personnel news from Rock Island-Milan School District for May 12 The following personnel items are from the May 12 agenda of the Rock Island-Milan School District. The School Board met at the Administration Center.
	Ascentra Credit Union breaks ground on new Rock Island location When it opens in early 2027, the facility will be the only bank in the West End of Rock Island.
	Apartment fire in Davenport An apartment fire in Davenport on Friday morning caused heavy damage to the rear of a building. It happened before 6 a.m. at North Park Manor in the 1400 block of East 39th Street. An Our Quad Cities News crew at the scene saw EMS rendering aid to at least one person. Several fire trucks [...]
	The aftermath of Trump-Xi summit: comparing U.S. and China announcements Analysts say a comparison of the readouts issued by the U.S. and China reveals "minor inconsistencies" on issues such as agriculture, tariffs and rare earths. But, experts argue, those differences are not significant.
	Moline Centre announces Bass Street Landing Concert Series Summer nights return to downtown Moline as the 2026 Bass Street Landing Summer Concert Series brings another season of live music along the Mississippi River. The concert series continues every Thursday evening through Aug. 13 at Bass Street Landing. Community members are invited to bring lawn chairs, gather with friends and enjoy an evening of [...]
	Alabama delays rescheduling of marijuana to determine implementation Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris speaking at the State Committee on Public Health meeting on April 9, 2025, in the RSA tower in Montgomery, Alabama. The committee on Thursday delayed the rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to III to determine the implementation of the change. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector)The governing body of the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Thursday voted to object to a federal rescheduling of marijuana after state health officials said they needed more time to determine how to implement it. Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama’s top health official, told members of the State Committee of Public Health that the state “fully intends” to implement the change. “We’re not saying Alabama’s not going to do this,” Harris told the committee. “We certainly are going to do this, but if you receive it without objection, it’s scheduled immediately. If you do nothing, it’s scheduled within 30 days. I’m going to ask you to take the third option, which is to object. Then we just have a little bit of time to figure this out with all of our other stakeholders.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. The committee vote was unanimous. Brian Hale, ADPH’s chief legal officer, said during the meeting the objection would trigger a public comment period. That period would last 30 to 60 days. “The objection is simply to allow more time for input into the implications of this rescheduling,” Hale said. ‘There’ll be a public hearing scheduled, we’ll see comments that way, and then we’ll talk to other stakeholders, licensing boards and others that may be affected to see what their input may be.” In April, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) moved marijuana from Schedule I – the Drug Enforcement Administration’s list of drugs with the greatest potential for abuse and least legitimate use – to Schedule III, with drugs considered to have a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The order followed an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in December instructing the DOJ to move towards rescheduling. Former President Joe Biden instructed the DOJ to reschedule the drug in 2024, but hearings on the move were canceled in early 2025. The federal order applies to state-licensed medical marijuana products in the states that allow medicinal use of the drug. The move means those businesses can deduct business expenses from their federal taxes and researchers have access to state-legal products. As a Schedule I drug, only cannabis grown in a federal facility could be studied, severely limiting the supply available to researchers. Alabama has a medical cannabis program passed by the Legislature in 2021. A Montgomery dispensary said last week that it expects to make medical marijuana available to patients soon. A message seeking comment from Vince Schilleci, the owner of the dispensary, was left Thursday afternoon. Harris said that rescheduling would not be in violation of state law, but after talking with the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC), he was unsure how the rescheduling would impact the program. “We have been working really hard to try to figure out what the implications of this are. There are a number of things that don’t exactly conflict with state law or other rules, but they require some thinking to figure out how to implement,” Harris said. Justin Aday, general counsel for the AMCC, said in a phone interview that the commission does not foresee any immediate impact of the federal rescheduling or the delay of rescheduling at the state level. “We certainly understand the committee and their desire to collect additional information about exactly what the implication is of the federal rescheduling and what the implication would be, depending on where medical cannabis is scheduled at the state level,” Aday said. “We will certainly participate in that process as needed, and provide whatever information we can.” Courtesy of Alabama Reflector
	The Bettendorf Brothers This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Rock Island has its share of "tail-wags-dog" stories. In one of them, the tail became the dog.As befits a fairy tale,…
	What is the 'tarps off' trend that men are engaging in? Find out in the quiz Plus: The L.A. mayoral race, AI court battles, extinct animals and Eurovision!
	'We'll never know if he could have been saved.' The gaps in Trump's rural health fund Republicans promise that $50 billion in new health funding will help rural America. But it's not expected to aid the years-long effort in North Carolina's Martin County to reopen its only hospital.
	Stephen Colbert's 'Late Show' ends with a swan song and a giant wormhole With a dash of sci-fi, Colbert ended his CBS late-night show with a powerful musical sendoff featuring Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello and Jon Batiste.
	Honda recalls nearly 60,000 vehicles over over potentially dangerous camera issue Honda has ordered a recall affecting up to 59,887 cars across two models, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
	Squeeze toys sold at Walmart, Ollie's recalled over asbestos concern More than 120,000 toys are impacted.
	Lawsuit filed against EPA for removing Iowa rivers from Impaired Waters List DES MOINES, Iowa -- The Iowa Environmental Council, alongside partners, has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency after it removed several waterways from the Impaired Waters List. Every two years, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources submits a waterway report to the EPA, considering chemical and physical factors that make the water [...]
	UN gravely concerned by an Afghan Taliban law that has provisions on child marriage The United Nations expressed "grave concern" on Thursday about a new law issued by Afghanistan's Taliban government on separation in marriage which includes provisions on child marriage.
	Trump says he's sending 5,000 more troops to Poland President Trump's announcement stirred confusion in Europe following weeks of changing statements from his administration about reducing the American military footprint in Europe.
	Republicans call off vote on Iran war resolution that was on the verge of passing Republicans struggled Thursday to find the votes to dismiss legislation that would compel President Donald Trump to withdraw from the war with Iran, delaying planned votes on the matter into June.
	Rubio doubtful of diplomacy with Cuba as Trump raises new threat of military action President Donald Trump and America's top diplomat on Thursday again raised the specter of U.S. military intervention in Cuba, a day after the administration announced criminal charges against the island's former leader, Raúl Castro.
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
	See which Iowa city is one of the top 5 places to live in the US, according to a new report U.S. News & World Report's annual Best Places to Live rankings placed Ankeny as the fourth-best place to live in the country.
	Rock Island National Cemetery prepares ahead of Memorial Day Volunteers honored headstones with flags at the Rock Island National Cemetery.
	Tapestry Farms receives grant for urban orchard upgrade The grant, worth more than $10,000, will provide funding for a new water source and a new shed.
	Ascentra Credit Union breaks ground on new Rock Island location When it opens in early 2027, the facility will be the only bank in the West End of Rock Island.
	Quad-City tribute to honor the fallen for Memorial Day Hundreds gave of their time to lovingly place flags on each of the 28,000 headstones at the Rock Island National Cemetery to honor the fallen. Our Quad Cities News photojournalist Mike Colón caught up with those who came together for this Memorial Day tribute.
	Rock Island welcomes Ascentra Credit Union to the West End Ascentra Credit Union broke ground on a branch in Rock Island on Thursday, which city and Ascentra leaders said represented more than just a new building in the West End.
	Clinton County pastor honored with Liberty Bell Award Pastor Ron Lott serves as chaplain for police officers, firefighters and community members impacted by traumatic events.
	Drake University reports $424.1 million annual economic impact on Iowa Drake University had an economic impact on the state of Iowa of nearly $425 million in fiscal year 2025, according to a report released by the private university Thursday.
	Rock Island Rotary Club grant to fund upgrades to Tapestry Farms urban orchard The Rotary Club of Rock Island Foundation has awarded Tapestry Farms $10,500 to make upgrades to an urban urban orchard it purchased last year in Rock Island’s West End. The grant was announced at the club’s weekly meeting on May 12. Rock Island Rotary Foundation funds will allow Tapestry Farms team to install a water [...]
	Ascentra Credit Union breaks ground on new site in West End of Rock Island Ascentra Credit Union's $2.7 million center is a first for people who live in Rock Island's West End, a financial institution in their own backyard. Community leaders say this project is an important part of the city's revitalization plan. "It plays several roles," said MLK Center Executive Director Jerry Jones. "Of course it provides access [...]
	ACLU drops lawsuit against now-closed Galesburg juvenile detention center A lawsuit that prompted the closure of the Mary Davis Home Juvenile Detention Center in Galesburg has been dropped two months after the center shut down. The American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois moved to have the lawsuit dismissed on Thursday. The dismissal required the defendants to publicly agree that they wouldn't reopen the facility. [...]

Friday, May 22nd, 2026

Thursday, May 21st, 2026