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

Sunday, August 23rd, 2026
	Retirements, hirings and personnel news from Rock Island-Milan School District from Aug. 11 The following personnel items are from the Aug. 11 agenda of the Rock Island-Milan School District.
	Fareway customers raise more than $158,000 for Variety - the Children’s Charity Money raised to support Variety’s mission of improving the lives of children who are at risk, underprivileged, critically ill, or living with special needs.
	Thousands in northwest Indiana still without power nearly two weeks after storm A round of storms impacted the region on Aug. 11
	Nonprofits are helping musicians pay for insurance in Austin, Texas, and beyond A nonprofit and a local public health agency are subsidizing marketplace health insurance for Austin musicians , even as rising healthcare costs make the program more expensive.
	Breakfast Bankroll for week ending 8/21/26 Here's this week's update on retail prices for the breakfast staples of bacon, eggs and milk. This is the USDA's average price for a dozen of large Grade A eggs, a pound of bacon and a gallon of milk on January 20, 2025, compared to where the prices are now. To see the price, click [...]
	President authorization of selling advanced AI chips to UAE raises concerns about conflict of interest & national security Businesses in every country around the world are in a race to dominate the field of artificial intelligence. That makes every technological advancement extremely valuable. Right now, the American company NVIDIA is known for making the best AI microchips. Several other companies produce strong products. One deal that fell somewhat under the radar recently involves [...]
	Congress should act sooner rather than later to fix Social Security solvency Congress can't agree on how to respond to the alarms about the future of Social Security. Almost 76 million Americans collect benefits from the safety net right now. At least three million more will become eligible for the program each year for the next ten years. These are the last of the baby boomers and [...]
	Independent Bridgford believes Iowa would have more power in DC if he's elected to 1st Congressional District This week's countdown to the election leaves us 72 days away from the midterms. This morning, we revisit the race for Iowa's 1st Congressional District seat. History tells us it should be close. Republican incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks seeks a fourth term in office. She faces Democrat Christina Bohannan for the third time in a row. [...]
	Becerra, running for governor of California, faces a health insurance problem The nation's uninsured rate hit a historical low when Xavier Becerra was health secretary. Now he wants to be California's next governor as Trump's actions have driven people off health insurance.
	Tropical Storm Moke to cause more flooding as Hawaii recovers from Lala More than a foot of rain could fall across Big Island of Hawaii, according to NOAA.
	Midwest Iron Addicts gym opens in Colona The Colona facility features a variety of free weights, plate-loaded and pin-loaded machines, and dedicated cardio equipment.
	Take a look at August business openings and closings around the Quad-Cities Tropical Smoothie Cafe opens in Moline
	Local government recap: Eldridge postpones fire decision; Davenport talks finances, $1M request Eldridge postponed a decision on the fire department, music organizations asked Davenport for $1 million for a new building, Moline approved a new interim administrator and other local government news.
	Iowa's cattle industry stays steady for now, farmers worry about the future with Tyson plant closure In 2025, beef was a $6.19 billion industry in Iowa, with 3.45 million head of cattle as of Jan. 1, 2026.
	QC nonprofit Soles for Children plans to provide winter essentials for 1,000 children Quad Cities nonprofit Soles For Children is preparing to provide free winter essentials to nearly 1,100 children during two community events in September, a news release says. The annual shoes and coat giveaway will take place from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, 630 9th St., Rock Island, [...]
	Illinois beef industry sees slow decline, Joslin plant closure may increase expenses "I think it's going to be a major issue for Midwestern and Eastern cattle feeders that this plant has closed," Travis Meteer said.
	MARK-TO-MARKET: The cost of the 2026 back-to-class shopping season This year, the National Retail Federation (NRF) expects U.S. consumers to spend $43.3 billion on back-to-school shopping for their K-12 children.
	BBB Scam Alert: The ‘Grandchild in Trouble’ call: A Back-to-School scam targeting grandparents BBB Scam Tracker warns of callers posing as a grandchild in distress are asking grandparents for emergency money tied to school expenses.
	Beef experts: Loss of imports, consolidation big factors in Joslin’s Tyson plant closure The closure reflects shrinking supplies, rising beef prices, import disruptions and consolidation, pressures that experts say could persist for years.
	The Col This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.She has grown old gracefully into her eighty-one years. For her, no face lifts, no tummy tucks. No owner has ever tried…
	Body cam shows federal agent was 'unjustified' in Memphis shooting, attorney says The family of Jonah Neal and their attorney were recently shown video from the day that Neal was shot by a federal agent while he experienced a mental health crisis.
Saturday, August 22nd, 2026
	High school football preview: Davenport Central Davenport Central is relying on their experience to propel them this 2026 season. The Blue Devils won one game last season.
	Participants go 'Over the Edge' for Big Brothers Big Sisters in Davenport Courage reached new heights as participants rappelled down an 11-story hotel in the Big Brothers Big Sisters fundraiser, raising over $125,000 for youth mentoring.
	Burlington hotel collapse caused by water accumulation Officials say water accumulation caused part of the Comfort Suites in Burlington to collapse.
	Lanterns light the river in memory of Rock Island man killed 10 years ago Loved ones gathered at Schweibert Park to remember De’Mar Bester, who was fatally shot during a 2016 robbery. His murder remains unsolved.
	Clinton's Paint-It-Back block party celebrates art, food and music The Paint-It-Back block party in Clinton brought together fashion, food, art and live music. Organizers say the event is about more than just painting walls.
	Rock Island celebrates Citizens of the Year The City of Rock Island has chosen the winners for the 39th annual Citizen of the Year awards. Each year, people in the community have an opportunity to submit a nomination for those who have made selfless contributions of service to the City of Rock Island and its residents, a news release says. Nine categories [...]
	Big Brothers Big Sisters raises money local youth with Over the Edge event in Davenport Participants rappelled 11 stories down Hotel Blackhawk in Davenport to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters' local mentoring programs.
	Burlington hotel safe for occupancy after partial collapse The City of Burlington reissued a Certificate of Occupancy for the hotel portion of a building that sustained a partial collapse.
	Group O brings packaging automation to the community through Lantech Packaging Tour The week-long event, beginning Monday, is designed to showcase automation solutions that can help organizations improve efficiency, productivity, and operational consistency.
	Resignations, hirings from United Township School District in August See the following personnel items from the Aug. 10 agenda of the United Township Board of Education in East Moline.
	Trump administration's 75-country visa ban was illegal, judge rules The U.S. stopped issuing visas for citizens of 75 countries because it said they were likely to need public assistance. A judge ruled the policy illegally discriminated on the basis of nationality.
	US Postal Service issues rule to tighten requirements for mail-in voting despite courts looking to block The United States Postal Service (USPS) announced Friday new eligibility guidelines for mail-in ballots, complying with President Trump's March executive order restricting the practice — despite a federal court later striking it down. USPS's 95-page unpublished report, slated for an official release on Aug. 26, detailed how it would distribute mail-in ballots for November's midterms. [...]
	Rock Island names 2026 Citizen of the Year award winners The winners will be recognized at the Rock Island City Council meeting on Aug. 24.
	Democratic Iowa Senate candidates back minimum wage increase, talk taxes at forum Four Democratic Iowa Senate candidates backed raising the state’s minimum wage and opposed eliminating state income taxes during a Davenport forum.
	Former Moline city administrator resigned after concerns over his professional behavior Documents produced in a records request say elected leaders intended to terminate Bob Vitas’ employment if he didn’t resign.
	Pleasant Valley School District resignations, hirings from August school board agenda The following personnel items are from the Aug. 10 of the Pleasant Valley School District. The School Board met at Belmont Administration Center at 525 Belmont Rd., Riverdale, Iowa.
	Retirements, hirings and other Davenport schools personnel news from August 10 See the personnel items from the Aug. 10 agenda of the Davenport Community School District.
	As Flock battles public scrutiny, other police surveillance companies see an opening Dozens of cities have canceled their contracts with Flock. Some are switching to other companies, but privacy experts say they're no better than Flock.
	NSRA QC Street Rod Nationals will roar into Davenport The NSRA Quad Cities Street Rod Nationals is back Aug. 28-29 at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds, Davenport, a news release says. Car enthusiasts and spectators from across the region will gather to enjoy automotive exhibitions, including Nick Donovan's Rockin' Road Show, Women's World, Circle of Winners Program, and more throughout the weekend. “We're excited to [...]
	Rotary, Kiwanis co-host State of the Schools address for Rock Island-Milan School District The Rotary Club of Rock Island, in partnership with the Rock Island Kiwanis Club, will host the annual State of the Schools Address featuring Sharon Williams, superintendent of the Rock Island-Milan School District, on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the Quad City Botanical Center, 2525 4th Ave., Rock Island. The luncheon meeting will begin at noon, [...]
	Sandburg, Galesburg, will host ceremonial groundbreaking for Charger Center Sandburg will host a ceremonial groundbreaking for the construction of the Charger Center at 4 p.m. Aug. 27 on the college’s Galesburg campus. Outside building G on the Galesburg campus, 2051 Tom L. Wilson Blvd. Parking will be available in the lots next to building C and building G. Speaking at the event will be President Seamus Reilly, Board [...]
	Flock license plate readers vandalized in the Quad-Cities At least 10 Flock Safety automatic license plate readers in the Quad-Cities have been vandalized, according to area police departments.
	'Lanterns' shines a bright but unsteady light If Watchmen taught us that you can use superheroes to excavate the cracked foundations of the American experience, Lanterns seems content to linger in the shadow of another HBO prestige genre series, True Detective.
	Memories of Muscatine: Successful Farming This week for Memories of Muscatine: a chromolithograph Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling.
	Two Languages This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Do you ever wish you could speak a second language? You already do: English. Let me explain. It will help you…
	What Rep. Hinson wants to do about Trump’s plan to import more beef Rep. Ashley Hinson said on Friday that she opposes President Donald Trump's plan to import more beef.
Friday, August 21st, 2026
	U.S. imposes 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian products The United States imposed 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian products early Saturday, and Canada immediately said it would retaliate, after last-ditch negotiations failed.
	U.S.-Canada trade talks collapse minutes before deadline for tariffs to take effect Trade negotiations between the United States and Canada fell apart on Friday night, shortly before a midnight deadline for 50% tariffs to take effect on $20 billion worth of Canadian products.
	U.S.-Canada trade talks collapse just before deadline for tariffs The midnight deadline means that U.S. is imposing 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian products. Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada "will match those tariffs dollar for dollar."
	OQC Crime Watch: County ends contract with Flock cameras: Episode 77 Watch crime reporters Linda Cook and Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in our area with the latest episode of the Our Quad Cities Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode Linda and Sharon discuss: updates on: Henry County Sheriff's Office ends contract with Flock cameras Whiteside County could get bogged down with old cases [...]
	Twin Cities PADS Homeless Shelter in Sterling is closing temporarily Officials said the facility is the only emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness in Whiteside County.
	Records show former Moline city administrator was warned about inappropriate behavior before resigning Documents show that city council unanimously agreed to terminate Bob Vitas' contract. However, he was given the option to resign before that action took place.
	Former Moline city administrator was warned about inappropriate behavior before his resignation Documents show that city council unanimously agreed to terminate Bob Vitas' contract. However, he was given the option to resign before that action took place.
	Community remembers Trudy Appleby 30 years after disappearance About 50 people gathered at Bass Street Landing Friday evening to honor Trudy Appleby on the 30th anniversary of her disappearance.
	Tyson workers rally after Joslin facility closure At least 100 people rallied outside of the Tyson facility in Joslin after its closure left 2,500 people without jobs.
	Five important lessons rescue dogs can teach you (BPT) - Every dog has a story, and each story offers a priceless life lesson. For Lee Asher, founder of The Asher House animal sanctuary, his pack of over 50 dogs (as well as a few cats, a horse, and a pig) teaches him something new every day. Now, he's sharing his wisdom with the world.In his book, Saved by the Pack: How 50 Dogs Helped Me Find My Purpose, Asher introduces readers to his furry family members and the lessons each of them has taught him. This beautifully illustrated book is filled with personal and honest stories that animal lovers and pet owners will treasure. Read on to discover a small sampling of the canine wisdom you'll find between the pages. 1. Never judge a book by its cover.Some dog breeds get a bad rap, which can make people reticent to adopt them. But each dog is more than just their breed. For example, Rain, a young dalmatian, was virtually unadoptable because of her breed's reputation for biting and moodiness."When I told people I was rescuing a dalmatian, for the first time I was warned against adopting a dog," Asher says. "When I rescue pit bulls, I hear a lot of 'Thank goodness, pit bulls are so misunderstood.' But with a dalmatian, all I heard was, 'I don't know if that's such a good idea.'"Rain did exhibit some of these negative breed traits. When Asher took her leash for the first time, she attempted to bite him. Thankfully, Asher recognized her behavior for what it was—a sign of fear. He didn't let her initial behavior deter him. He stayed calm and led with confidence. Over time, he proved to Rain that he was safe, earning her love and trust. Now, she's a regular member of the pack."Don't hang on to first, second, or even third impressions," Asher says. "Important things take time, patience, open-mindedness, and the courage to wait." 2. Don't be afraid to take a risk.Would you adopt a dog that constantly tried to run away? Such a risky pup would make most people shy away, but Asher took on the challenge when he adopted Ken, a handsome all-white mixed breed with some husky in him.Ken's reputation as an escape artist made him a high-risk adoption. However, Asher found a kindred spirit in Ken and decided to bring him home."I knew the risks I was taking in adopting Ken given his history," Asher says, "but I was sure I could save him and provide the type of life and freedom he wanted and deserved."When Ken arrived at the sanctuary, Asher made sure to take him everywhere on a leash to help him get comfortable in his new home and with his new pack. Now, Ken is a dog that won't leave Asher's side."The truth is, Ken wasn't running away. He was running to something: the home that could meet his needs, that trusted him, and that he could trust," Asher says. "I've given him his freedom, and in return, he always comes back."3. Believe in second chances.When animal control found Ray, they assumed the worst about this German shepherd. She and another dog had run away from a bad situation and were found next to a third dog who was deceased, leading animal control to believe that she or the other dog was to blame.Ray also was severely anxious and wasn't outgoing. Combined with her story, Ray's anxiety made many people believe she was a dangerous dog and a liability. But her history didn't stop Asher from giving Ray a home."Here's the reality: No one saw the situation unfold or the circumstances that led to one dog's death," Asher says. "And the staff [of the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County] saw no signs of aggression in Ray at all. What they saw was a beautiful, frightened girl."Asher's belief in second chances paid off. Now, Ray is thriving at the sanctuary and has bonded strongly with Asher and her new pack."I don't make a dog's history its identity. Every dog is treated like they were born the day we meet. I learn what I need to know through my own experience of them rather than from what I've been told. Honestly, we should practice this more with our human companions too."4. Practice selflessness.Putting another's needs above your own can be difficult, especially when it means letting go. Asher learned this lesson when he adopted Nacho, a 12-week-old pit bull.Asher had previously raised a puppy, a rottweiler named Doug, among the pack. But he quickly learned that bringing a young dog, especially a male, into a pack of five or more dogs was incredibly challenging. However, Asher's love for Nacho and his grief from a recent dog's passing made him ignore his instincts."Unfortunately, it took only a month for me to acknowledge I wouldn't be able to keep Nacho forever," Asher says. "At just a couple of months old, he was already challenging the other dogs. I was worried he was going to develop bad habits, or worse, risk his and the pack's safety. I didn't need to learn a hard lesson twice."In the end, it was his love for Nacho and the rest of his pack that pushed Asher to do the right thing and put the dogs' needs above his own desires. Nacho now lives in a quieter home with a family who can give him the time and training he needs to be the best version of himself."[Nacho's] thriving in his forever home, with no behavior issues—proof I made the right decision," Asher says. "I've had to learn the hard way that it doesn't matter if I want to keep a dog, if it's my dream dog, or if I'm grieving another soul. I always have to do what's best for the dog in front of me and for the pack." 5. Have a sense of humor.If laughter is the best medicine, then Asher gets multiple doses a day thanks to Tommy, the pack's class clown.When they first met, Asher was dealing with the immense pressure and expectations of opening a dog sanctuary. However, Tommy's goofy teeth and silly, stubborn personality brought the right amount of levity to combat Asher's worries."Tommy reminded me to slow down and enjoy the moment," Asher says. "I'll never forget the day I toured him around the property, only to have him sprint into the freezing cold rock quarry and swim laps. Chasing him into the water, fully clothed, I laughed harder than I had in ages. His goofy spirit brought light back into my days. He became a source of humor, gratitude, and hope."Tommy's presence serves as a reminder to Asher and others of the heart and fun a rescue dog can bring to someone's life.Want to learn more lessons from Asher's pack of rescue dogs? Pick up a copy of Saved by the Pack by visiting Books.Disney.com/Book/Saved-By-The-Pack.All photos courtesy of Aaron Huey/National Geographic.
	Former Tyson Foods workers rally outside Joslin plant Former employees of the Tyson Foods plant that closed in Joslin rallied outside the plant on Friday afternoon. They were joined by supporters in a call for action. About 2,500 people lost their jobs when the company closed the plant without notice. Some workers had been there for more than 30 years. A Chicago-based social-action [...]
	'Certain people ... know certain things.' Trudy Appleby has been gone for 30 years Friday marked 30 years since 11-year-old Trudy Appleby was last seen leaving her home in Moline. Her family moves toward some closure after the man police say killed her waits to go on trial for her murder. But her family will never be the same, despite what happens in court. Trudy Appleby's family and friends [...]
	Nurses, first responders train at MercyOne Genesis to prepare for pediatric trauma A first-of-its-kind training happened in Davenport on Friday, when nurses and first responders focused on preparing for pediatric trauma. The MercyOne Genesis pediatric mock trauma drill put the staff in a real-world scenario: Responding to a car accident involving two children. "It is so important to get down to the nitty-gritty intricacies of that patient [...]
	Severe Thunderstorm Warning from FRI 8:13 PM CDT until FRI 9:00 PM CDT Severe Thunderstorms with High Winds and Hail Expected Until 9 PM CDT
	Laid-off Tyson workers rally outside plant in Joslin, fight for jobs Hundreds of unemployed Tyson Foods workers gathered Friday in the rain outside the plant in Joslin, Ill., organized by a national organization to fight for their jobs and protest the plant closure.
	Tyson workers rally outside of Joslin facility after closure At least 100 people rallied outside of the Tyson facility in Joslin after its closure left 2,500 people without jobs.
	Fish kill discovered at West Lake Park in Scott County Scott County Conservation employees say they started finding dead fish last week in West Lake Park. Iowa's Department of Natural Resources estimates 3,500 to 4,000 fish died. The lake's recent restoration made the water clearer, which enabled sunlight to reach deeper into the lake. That made it easier for plants to grow. Park officials are [...]
	Davenport school district staff celebrate new school year Davenport school district employees gathered at the Vibrant Arena ahead of classes resuming on Monday to celebrate the upcoming school year.
	LIVE: Tornado warning for Bureau County The First Alert Weather team is tracking severe storms.
	MercyOne Genesis holds pediatric trauma drill Hospital officials said cases of pediatric trauma are less common in children than adults, but they're on the rise.
	Severe Thunderstorm Warning from FRI 6:51 PM CDT until FRI 7:30 PM CDT Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Gusty Winds and Hail Expected Until 7:30 PM CDT
	Gavin Waidelich, Our Quad Cities News, goes Over the Edge for Big Brothers/Big Sisters Gavin Waidelich, of Our Quad Cities News, went Over the Edge on Friday afternoon to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley. A crowd gathered to watch as Waidelich went down the side of the Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection in downtown Davenport. "The scariest part was the first story," Waidelich said [...]
	Man’s body found in Hennepin Canal Authorities are working to identify the remains of a man found Friday in the Hennepin Canal near Big Island.
	MercyOne Genesis conducts mock pediatric trauma drill Hospital officials said cases of pediatric trauma are less common in children than adults, but they're on the rise.
	Tyson workers protest outside Joslin plant, ask for state intervention Hundreds of Tyson Foods workers attended Friday's protest outside the beef processing plant in Joslin, Illinois. Over 2,500 lost their jobs last week when the plant announced its closure.
	MercyOne Genesis emergency workers practice life-saving skills during mock pediatric trauma event MercyOne Genesis emergency department workers practiced life-saving pediatric care during a realistic mock trauma simulation.
	Letter: Moline city administrator resigned after allegations of ‘inappropriate behavior’ Bob Vitas, former Moline City Administrator, resigned after being accused of inappropriate behavior and poor hiring that damaged City Hall morale.
	Lawsuit filed against City of Davenport over heavily redacted city administrator resume In response to a public records request, the City produced a resume with almost everything blacked out.
	Construction on I-74 and John Deere Road interchange begins Monday The work will involve shoulder reconstruction, drainage work, temporary lighting and intelligent transportation upgrades.
	First day of school delayed at Dubuque’s Jefferson Middle School after fire A fire at Jefferson Middle School is delaying the first day of school.
	Peosta reviews data center development concept plans The city says plans will help inform its ordinance ahead of moratorium's expiration.
	Sterling's Twin Cities PADS Homeless Shelter to close temporarily Officials said the facility is the only emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness in Whiteside County.
	Former Solon teacher charged with sexual abuse of students Joel Foreman faces multiple counts tied to alleged conduct with two former students.
	SR Promotions schedules season championships at Davenport Speedway SR Promotions will hold its season championships at Davenport Speedway on Monday, Aug. 24, a news release says. The event was originally scheduled for Aug. 14, but was postponed because of rain. Track champions will be crowned in our six weekly classes: the Outhouse/Storage to Go - IMCA Late Models, the Midwest Recycler/Del’s Metal Co. [...]
	Deere seeks early contract extension as UAW members vote Sunday Deere says the deal would add roughly $21,000 in combined wage increases and bonuses per average worker over two years.
	Attorney general candidates outline priorities at Iowa State Fair Voters heard from candidates for Iowa attorney general at the Iowa State Fair this week. Republican incumbent Brenna Bird is facing Democrat Nate Willems in November.
	Work on I-74, John Deere Road starts Aug. 24 Summer may be winding down but it’s still Road Construction Season in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that work on the Interstate 74 and John Deere Road (Illinois 5) interchange in Moline will start on Monday, Aug. 24, weather permitting. The work zone is on I-74 from south of 27th Street to [...]
	Davenport rehabilitation owner charged with sexually assaulting client A Davenport rehabilitation business owner was arrested on Thursday for allegedly sexual assaulting a client of his.
	Severe T'Storm Watch issued for Friday evening - high school football games could be impacted A Severe T'Storm Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for the Quad cities area Friday evening. This watch goes until 10 p.m. Storms will be capable of producing damaging winds, hail and even an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. The watch will likely be canceled before 10 p.m. in the Quad [...]
	'As long as Trudy's still missing, I'll keep looking' \| Uncle remembers 11-year-old niece 30 years since disappearance Ray Eddleman still remembers Aug. 21, 1996, and the helpless feeling after learning that Trudy was missing. He is one of the last living relatives who knew Trudy.
	Ross Education and its Davenport campus announce change to not-for-profit The new change will allow the institution to keep tuition relatively flat and expand federal and state grant access.
	Body found near Big Island Our Quad Cities News was on the scene at Big Island, where a body was found earlier today. Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson confirmed to Our Quad Cities News that the body is that of an adult male. No other information is available at this time.
	Deere seeks early contract extension as UAW members vote Saturday Deere says the deal would add roughly $21,000 in combined wage increases and bonuses per average worker over two years.
	Mantente conectado este año escolar sin gastar de más (BPT) - La temporada de regreso a clases puede ser un momento emocionante, con una rutina renovada, pero también trae una larga lista de compras que puede poner a prueba el presupuesto familiar. Y todo indica que este año escolar será más costoso que nunca.Según la encuesta de consumidores de PwC de 2026 en EE. UU. sobre las compras para el regreso a clases, los padres esperan gastar un promedio de $922 este año y casi la mitad (47%) afirma que planea gastar más que en 2025.La tecnología se ha convertido en un aspecto importante de esta ecuación. Desde coordinar la recogida de los niños de la escuela hasta enviar un recordatorio sobre el ensayo de la banda, acceder a los recursos digitales de la escuela y comunicarse con los maestros, la tecnología desempeña un papel clave en la vida cotidiana de las familias. Sin embargo, a medida que aumentan los costos, las familias buscan formas inteligentes de administrar sus presupuestos. Una encuesta reciente de Deloitte sobre las compras para el regreso a clases reveló que los padres planean reducir un 16% el gasto en tecnología este año y posponer la renovación de sus dispositivos. Por eso, encontrar opciones que ofrecen el mejor equilibro entre calidad y precio es más importante que nunca.Entonces, ¿cómo pueden las familias obtener la tecnología y la conectividad que necesitan sin afectar aún más el presupuesto de regreso a clases? Un buen punto de partida es consultar a su proveedor de servicios móviles.Metro by T-Mobile ayuda a las familias a mantenerse en contacto sin exceder su presupuesto durante una de las épocas más costosas del año y en los meses siguientes. Con planes de servicios móvil accesibles, ofertas convenientes de dispositivos y beneficios semanales, las familias pueden encontrar opciones prácticas para ahorrar y, al mismo tiempo, mantener a los estudiantes conectados en la escuela, en casa y dondequiera que estén.Ofertas de dispositivos con gran valorEl inicio de un nuevo año escolar puede ser un buen momento para renovar el dispositivo de un estudiante, pero el costo puede aumentar rápidamente. La buena noticia es que quienes cambien su número a Metro ahora pueden obtener un Samsung Galaxy A37 5G gratis, sin cargos de activación, un valor de $450, con el plan PERIOD de $40. Además, con datos 5G ilimitados y una garantía de precio por cinco años para llamadas, mensajes de texto y datos 5G, las familias pueden tener la tranquilidad de saber cuánto pagarán cada mes por su servicio móvil.Planes familiares asequiblesA la hora de elegir un plan, es importante contar con una opción que facilite el día a día y sea accesible. Por eso, Metro ofrece planes asequibles diseñados para ayudar a las familias a permanecer en contacto durante los días ocupados de escuela, las actividades extracurriculares y las comunicaciones cotidianas.Para las familias que tienen seres queridos en el extranjero, Metro también ofrece llamadas y mensajes de texto ilimitados a México y a determinados países de Latinoamérica con ciertos planes, lo que facilita mantenerse en contacto con los abuelos y otros familiares, sin importar dónde se encuentren. Es solo una forma más en la que Metro brinda valor sin compromisos.Ahorros semanales más allá de la conectividadUn plan familiar asequible y ofertas para actualizar dispositivos son solo el comienzo. Los clientes de Metro también tienen acceso a las ofertas de T-Mobile Tuesdays, que incluyen sorteos, descuentos en restaurantes y mucho más. Para las familias que ya están equilibrando los gastos de útiles escolares, actividades extracurriculares y otros gastos cotidianos, estos beneficios semanales ofrecen formas adicionales de ahorrar y agregar un poco de diversión a la semana escolar.Mantente conectado sin exceder tu presupuestoLas compras de regreso a clases pueden ser costosas, pero mantenerse conectado no tiene por qué serlo. Con planes asequibles, ofertas inteligentes en dispositivos y oportunidades de ahorro cada semana, Metro ayuda a las familias a permanecer conectadas, y al mismo tiempo, a dejar espacio en el presupuesto para todo lo que el año escolar pueda traer.Para obtener más información sobre cómo ahorrar este año escolar y permanecer conectado, visita MetroByT-Mobile.com.INFORMACIÓN LEGAL. Garantía de precio: se aplican excepciones. Ahorro de $450 o más, según el descuento de Metro en el dispositivo y la exención de la tarifa de activación. Si utiliza muchos datos, más de 35 GB al mes, es posible que note una ralentización de la velocidad en momentos de mayor tráfico en nuestra red. Para obtener más información, visita MetroByT-Mobile.com.
	Heavy police presence near US 67 bridge in Milan This is a developing story. News 8 is at the scene, working to gather more information.
	Davenport schools' Showing up Together event kicks off the 2026-2027 school year All Davenport Community School District staff members attended a Friday morning gathering at Vibrant Arena to celebrate the start of the school year.
	4 Your Money \| Bonds In Control Despite the Federal Reserve leaving interest rates unchanged, mortgage rates have continued to inch upward. James Nelson, Financial Planner at NelsonCorp Wealth Management, joins us to share how the bond market impacts mortgage rates and why the bond market is more impactful than many realize.
	Morrison Sports Complex receives AED donation Morrison is making sure visitors to the Morrison Sports Complex can get the help they need in a medical emergency. City of Morrison Recreation Services Director Nathan Jacobs announced that a new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been donated to the complex. The AED will be installed in the main concession building, offering quick access [...]
	How jewelry appraisal works and what it costs How jewelry appraisal works and what it costsA jewelry appraisal usually costs about $75-$100, though traditional appraisal fees can range from $50 to $200. This depends on the appraiser, the item’s complexity, and the location.Appraisers may charge a flat fee per piece or an hourly rate; complex rings, antique jewelry, designer pieces, estate items, or multi-stone designs are often more expensive to evaluate.So, how much does a jewelry appraisal cost?Average traditional appraisals are about $75-$100.More complex pieces can cost more.Below, BriteCo explains how often you need a jewelry appraisal, whether a free appraisal is actually useful, how long the process can take, and what indicates that the appraisal is worth your hard-earned dollars.Most jewelry appraisals cost around $75-$100 on average, but appraisal fees vary by appraiser and the complexity of the piece.Note that prices can vary further based on location, appraiser credentials, documentation depth, and whether the appraisal requires research or testing. In-store jewelry appraisals generally cost $65-$200.Flat Fee vs. Hourly Rate: How Jewelry Appraisers ChargeJewelry appraisers usually charge either a flat fee per piece or hourly rates based on the time needed to inspect, research, and document an item.A flat fee for appraisal services is more common for straightforward pieces. You’re more likely to pay an hourly rate for collections, estate jewelry, antique pieces, or pieces that require complex research. Additionally, many appraisers provide a discount if you’re having multiple pieces appraised at the same time.Before you book, ask your appraiser:What is the total estimated fee?Do you charge a flat fee or an hourly rate?Does the fee include photos?Will I receive a signed written report?Are additional pieces discounted?How long will the appraisal take? Red Flag: Avoid Percentage-Based Appraisal FeesAvoid any appraiser who charges a percentage of your jewelry’s value for their services; industry standards dictate that appraisal fees should be based on time, expertise, and report complexity, not the final value assigned to the item. A percentage-based fee can give the appraiser an incentive to overstate the amount of money your piece is worth.The fee should not rise just because the appraiser says the jewelry is worth more; flat fees and hourly fees are much safer alternatives. A reputable appraiser should also offer a written estimate of their fee before inspection begins.What Affects Jewelry Appraisal Costs?The main factors affecting the cost of your appraisal are the complexity of the piece, the appraiser’s credentials and expertise, and the purpose of the appraisal. Your location and the level of documentation required also play a role.Factors affecting jewelry appraisal cost:Number of stones in the pieceMounted vs. loose gemstonesDiamond or gemstone quality grading complexityAntique or estate research neededDesigner or brand verification neededMetal testing neededIncluded photosAppraiser credentialsLocal market pricingNumber of items to be appraisedA simple pendant is usually faster to evaluate than an antique diamond ring with multiple stones and incomplete paperwork. As such, expect the pendant to be cheaper to appraise than the antique diamond ring.How Much Does a Ring Appraisal Cost?A ring appraisal commonly costs $65-$200, depending on the ring’s value, design, and complexity. Engagement rings can cost more to appraise: For example, in a three-stone engagement ring, the appraiser will need to document the center gemstone, side stones, setting, metal type, condition, and replacement value.Factors affecting ring appraisal cost include:Center stone carat weight and qualitySide stones or diamonds in a pavé settingDesigner or custom settingsAntique or vintage detailsMissing or incomplete documentationKnowing what to expect with ring appraisals ahead of time can ensure you approach the process with the right mindset.Jewelry Appraisals for InsuranceA jewelry appraisal for insurance purposes typically documents the item’s replacement value, which is the amount an insurance company uses to help set coverage and support future claims; the appraisal cost is still $75-$100 on average.Most jewelry insurance policies require an appraisal in the event of damage, loss, theft, or a mysterious disappearance, so it’s vital for most insurance claims. Having an accurate appraisal is truly the only way to guarantee that your item will be replaced exactly as-is.Insurance appraisals should be written, detailed, dated, and specific enough to clearly identify the item.Note that the cost of getting the appraisal is separate from your insurance premium, but the appraised value does influence the cost of your insurance.Insurance Appraisal Vs. Resale, Estate, or Fair Market AppraisalThe type of appraisal you get matters; insurance, resale, estate, and fair market appraisals all use different valuation methods.So what’s the difference? BriteCo Can You Get a Free Jewelry Appraisal?Any reputable jeweler will provide you with an appraisal with your purchase. If you weren’t provided with an appraisal, simply ask your jeweler, and they should provide it for you.You may be able to get a free jewelry estimate at a jewelry store, but a free estimate is not always the same as a formal written appraisal.For example, you might be able to get:A free appraisal for a new jewelry purchase at the point of saleA verbal estimate from jewelers as you shopA free promotional appraisal at a dedicated eventA free appraisal if your insurer or jeweler decides to waive the cost for a buyerHowever, if you’re getting an appraisal for insurance purposes, a verbal opinion is not valid, and written documentation is always required. As such, before specifically trying to get a free appraisal, make sure that what you’re getting will actually be suitable for your purposes.Verbal Appraisal vs. Written Appraisal: Why the Document MattersA verbal appraisal may give you a rough estimate of your piece’s value, but a written appraisal report is what insurers, estate planners, and serious buyers usually need.Verbal estimate: It’s quick, informal, and usually not insurance-ready, and may not even be accurate.Written appraisal: This is a detailed report, with photos, an item description, the appraiser’s signature, and the purpose of the valuation.Insurance appraisals, in particular, require written, detailed documentation; a verbal or incomplete jewelry appraisal will not suffice. If you’re paying for an appraisal, that written report is the main thing you’re paying for.Diamond Grading Reports vs. Jewelry AppraisalsA certified gemologist diamond grading report from an independent gemological laboratory describes a diamond’s characteristics and quality, while a jewelry appraisal assigns a value to a full piece for a specific purpose.A grading report may include carat, cut, color, clarity, measurements, and lab details. An appraisal may reflect this information, too, but it also assigns the piece a retail replacement value, resale value, or fair market value.Use your grading report as supporting documentation when getting insurance or in other situations wherein you might submit documentation showing your jewelry’s value, but don’t assume it can replace a true written appraisal.What Should Be Included in a Paid Jewelry Appraisal?A proper jewelry appraisal should include a highly detailed written report; the appraiser shouldn’t just give you a single number.The appraisal should include:The jewelry owner’s nameAppraiser name and signatureAppraisal dateAppraisal purposeMetal type and purityItem weight and measurementsGemstone detailsDiamond 4Cs when relevantCondition notesClear photosReplacement or fair market valueWhether you’re insuring a new piece or estate planning, detailed documentation will make your appraisal more useful.How Long Does a Jewelry Appraisal Take?A jewelry appraisal can sometimes be completed quickly, but timing depends on the provider, the piece’s complexity, and whether the appraiser needs to conduct additional research. Simple pieces are faster to appraise, whereas antique, estate, designer, and multi-stone pieces can take longer. Additionally, written reports require more time than a verbal estimate.If you need an appraisal for insurance purposes, confirm both the appraiser’s turnaround time and that your insurer will accept their appraisal before booking.How Often Should You Pay for a New Jewelry Appraisal?You should have your jewelry appraised every three to five years, or sooner if the piece changes, its value changes, or your insurer requests updated documentation reflecting the appraised value.Reasons why you might update your jewelry appraisal sooner include:Making a major upgrade to the pieceMaking the investment in a new center stone or settingA major market value shiftMissing photos or details in an old appraisalYour insurer requests a new valuationNewly inheriting a piece of cherished jewelryWhile it’s advisable to get an updated appraisal every few years, there are definitely situations in which you should seek a new appraisal right away.Where to Get a Jewelry AppraisalYou can get jewelry appraised through a qualified local jeweler, through an independent jewelry appraiser, or via an online appraisal service if your item qualifies.Local jeweler: If you find a local appraiser, they can be convenient and useful for straightforward pieces.Independent appraiser: A specialist is often best for high-value, estate, complex, or antique jewelry pieces.Online appraisal: Online jewelry appraisals are ideal for eligible pieces when you have good photos and documentation.How to Avoid Overpaying for a Jewelry AppraisalTo avoid overpaying for a jewelry appraisal, it’s crucial to ask about the appraiser’s fee structure, the kind of details their report provides, and the expected deliverables before the appraisal begins.To avoid overpaying:Ask whether pricing is a flat fee or hourlyAvoid value-based percentage feesAsk whether photos are included in the reportAsk whether the report is signed and datedAsk whether multiple items qualify for a discountAsk whether the appraisal is accepted for insuranceCompare online vs. in-person optionsRemember: The cheapest option is not always best if it does not produce the documentation you need.Is a Jewelry Appraisal Worth the Cost?A jewelry appraisal is worth the cost if your piece of jewelry is valuable enough that insurance, resale, estate planning, or replacement accuracy matters.An appraisal can help you:Establish your piece’s replacement valueSupport insurance coverageDocument your ownership of the pieceReduce future insurance claim friction ( if you make a claim to replace a lost piece)Resell the pieceWith estate planningJewelry Appraisal Cost FAQsHow much does a jewelry appraisal usually cost?A jewelry appraisal usually costs $75-$100, though the cost varies depending on factors such as the item being appraised and your location.Is a free jewelry appraisal good enough for insurance?No, in most cases, a free jewelry appraisal will not be comprehensive enough to be accepted by an insurance provider. However, if you receive a “no charge” appraisal from a jeweler at the time of your jewelry purchase that is detailed and documented, it will probably be sufficient.Does a diamond grading report replace an appraisal?No, while there is overlap in the type of information the two types of documentation contain, a diamond grading report cannot replace an appraisal.How often should I update a jewelry appraisal?Update your appraisal every few years, expediting the process if your jewelry insurance provider asks for an update, the market changes, or you change the piece.Jewelry Appraisal Cost: Final TakeawayMost jewelry appraisals cost around $75-$100 on average, with in-person appraisal prices varying by appraiser, location, and item complexity.Decide what kind of valuation you need: insurance, resale, estate, or fair market. Choose an online or in-person appraisal based on your jewelry’s complexity and your appraisal needs. Store the final appraisal safely alongside the jewelry’s photos, receipts, and insurance documents.This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Expert recommendations for how to weather a summer outage (BPT) - Outages aren't a matter of if, but when. If you live in an area where summer storms and heat waves can take out local power, it's time to consider how to power your home no matter how long the grid goes dark.What's the easiest solution? According to Beau, a former licensed electrician and now an in-house product expert at Jackery, the answer is simple: buy a home backup system.Throughout his career, Beau has answered many of the same questions from homeowners considering purchasing a home backup battery. Below are his answers to some of the most common ones.Q: Do I really need a home backup?If you've considered buying a home backup system but have been putting it off, consider what you'll have to deal with if the power goes out tomorrow.Without an independent power source, you risk going without food, air conditioning, communication and other essentials. Because blackouts can last hours, days or even weeks, now is the best time to buy home backup before the alert hits your phone.Q: Is home backup worth the cost? Yes. A home battery is a small investment with a fast payback. In fact, a home backup battery can pay for itself the first time it protects food. During a multiday outage, you can lose hundreds of dollars' worth of groceries when the fridge stops running and have to spend hundreds more to replace what you lost.Q: How long can a home backup run my home?I field this one question more than any other, and I always answer the same way: It depends on your household. Home backup systems come in different sizes and capacities. How long one can run will depend on what you need to keep powered during an outage.For example, families with young kids will need to prioritize keeping the refrigerator running and having a way to cook food. Pet owners may prioritize keeping their home cool during a heat wave, while remote workers may focus on keeping laptops, monitors, routers and phones powered.Q: How do I know what size home backup I need?The right home backup system is the one sized around your actual priorities. Now that you know what you couldn't live without during a blackout, match those needs to the right portable power stations, solar generators or home backup battery.If you only need to run a few plugged-in essentials, a smaller home battery backup may be enough. However, if you want to keep a refrigerator, internet equipment and family basics running longer, step up in capacity. If you want circuit-level or whole-home coverage, plan for a larger system and a transfer switch.Q: I need to stay connected no matter what. What should I look for in a power station?For remote workers or homeowners focused on connectivity, I'd suggest the HomePower 1000 v2. This power station offers 1500W output, enough power to keep a laptop running for 57 hours, and features sub-10 ms switchover and built-in 3 kV of surge protection for modems, routers and computers. And thanks to Jackery Priority Routing, you can rest easy knowing that you can preserve your networking gear's capacity during long outages.Q: During a long blackout, I want to make sure I have enough power to keep my whole family comfortable. Do I need to get a large-capacity power station right away?For families who want a power station that grows with their needs, I'd recommend the HomePower 2000 Plus v2. The power station starts at a 2048Wh baseline capacity, enough to power a refrigerator for up to 48 hours, and expands to 12kWh with additional batteries.Like the HomePower 1000 v2, it features Jackery Priority Routing, which automatically protects critical devices as the battery drains. When you need more power, hook up the station to portable solar panels, where it can fully recharge in about three hours.Q: Can I power my whole home at once?One hundred percent full, whole-home coverage with no compromise is very costly. But you don't need everything in the event of an outage, and you certainly don't want to overpay for backup. For backup that covers multiple rooms simultaneously, you'll want to look at systems that connect to your home circuits via a transfer switch. Jackery's bestseller, the HomePower 3600 Plus, is a great option for households that want to be prepared for longer outages. It delivers 3600W output and 3584Wh capacity, expandable up to 21kWh, which allows you to keep large home appliances like a refrigerator powered for up to 14 days.This home backup solution connects to home circuits through a Manual Transfer Switch, offers sub-10ms UPS switching, runs at about 30dB (as quiet as a library), provides six recharge methods and is built to last on a 6000-cycle battery rated for 16-plus years. The HomePower 3600 Plus is also a great option for RV adventures. For larger homes with high energy needs, I'd recommend our largest and most powerful backup option, Jackery's Solar Generator 5000 Plus. When paired with the Jackery Smart Transfer Switch (STS), you get more control and automation over up to 12 30-amp circuits. The Jackery app shows you exactly what you are using on each circuit and puts control at your fingertips. The STS also opens up many options for load management and grid arbitrage, helping lower utility bills in areas where power is more expensive and will also help keep the appliances that are most important powered for the longest amount of time. Up to two Solar Generator 5000 Plus units can pair with the Jackery STS, increasing the continuous output to 14,400W and surge up to 28,800W.It also features eight recharge methods, high-voltage solar compatibility, full AC recharge in 1.7 hours, 0ms UPS switching, Jackery App monitoring, an 11-plus-year battery lifespan, and a five-year warranty, so you can count on it to power your home through outages in any season for years to come.Don't wait for a blackout to get serious about home backupWhen you break it down, Beau's plan for how households can prepare for a summer storm or heat wave is simple: buy home backup now, figure out what you couldn't live without, and match it to the right product. To learn more and find the right home backup that fits your home needs, visit Jackery.com.
	Iowa Economic Development Authority awards $2.23 million in tax credits to ADM in Clinton The $55.5 million project is expected to create 53 jobs at a qualifying wage of $23.57 per hour.
	National Senior Citizens Day recognizes older adults' impact August 21 is National Senior Citizens Day, a day that recognizes older adults and the impact they have had on society. The day was created in 1988 after President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5847. Ty Hill, owner of a local Caring Transitions franchise, spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to talk about the [...]
	Supreme Court allows Trump's ballroom construction to continue for now The ruling comes after months of back and forth between the Trump administration and the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Sunday, August 23rd, 2026

Saturday, August 22nd, 2026

Friday, August 21st, 2026