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

Thursday, February 12th, 2026
	Bettendorf man’s sex charges dismissed; pleads guilty to child endangerment He has a sentencing hearing scheduled for May 5, according to court documents.
	Israel accuses two of using military secrets to place Polymarket bets The Tel Aviv indictment is the first publicly known instance of people being accused of leveraging military secrets to place bets on the popular prediction market.
	Figge Art Museum presents new Preston Singletary immersive exhibition This winter, the Figge Art Museum presents "Preston Singletary: Raven and the Box of Daylight," an immersive exhibition that brings ancestral storytelling into the present through glass, sound, and light. On view February 14 through Aug. 2, the exhibition invites visitors to step inside an Indigenous creation story that continues to shape how people understand [...]
	Joe Moreno named to Running USA Hall of Champions Joe Moreno was 15 years old when he was given a pair of white Nike Cortez shoes with a vibrant red Swoosh on the side. Those white shoes would last him countless hours and guide Moreno to find his life's love and passion, eventually landing him a spot in the Running USA Hall of Fame. [...]
	Scott County board shoots down new power plant ordinance If approved, the ordinance would have allowed power plants to be built on prime farmland.
	Scott County Board rejects thermal-energy zoning proposal Supervisors voted against a proposal that would change zoning rules and allow thermal-energy plants to fall under “special permitted uses,” with one member abstaining to vote.
	Stewart Road railroad crossing temporarily closed, detour in place A traffic alert for drivers in Muscatine.
	Inside Iowa Politics: Whether EV makers can sell vehicles in Iowa Iowa legislators face an upcoming deadline if they want to change the law to allow electric vehicle manufacturers to sell directly to consumers in the state.
	James Van Der Beek's death sparks QCA conversations on early cancer screening Cancer before the age of 50 is rare diagnosis - but one that's increasing, according to findings from the American Association for Cancer Research. It suggests within the last year, colorectal cancer is becoming more common in young people. Actor James Van Der Beek announced he was being treated for colorectal cancer in 2024. He [...]
	Woman pleads guilty in child sex abuse case A Davenport woman has pleaded guilty for her role in a child sex abuse case.
	Valentine’s at Niabi Zoo: Love takes many forms We set out to find the cutest lovebugs in the QCA. At Niabi, that includes a fennec fox family, inseparable otter sisters, singing dogs & pining pallas's cats.
	Stewart Road, Muscatine, railroad crossing closed temporarily Stewart Road in Muscatine is closed at the GPC railroad spur crossing, located just north of Dick Drake Way, because of emergency repairs on a broken section of rail discovered early Thursday, a news release says. The City of Muscatine closed the crossing Thursday morning. The contractor performing the repairs expects the crossing to reopen [...]
	The Heart of the Story: Harvesting a story Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. A children's book author from the QCA takes [...]
	Man charged with using hidden camera to get videos of a minor pleads guilty to federal charges A man accused of using a hidden camera to capture several videos of a minor has pleaded guilty to federal charges.
	Scott County Supervisors reject ordinance that would have made way for power plant Residents in rural Scott County organized against the power plant, citing concerns over air quality, resident health, the environment and taking prime farm ground out of commission.
	Quad City Chordbusters to deliver singing Valentines A singing Valentine’s Day tradition is returning to the Quad Cities Area for another year.
	Man sentenced after pleading guilty to grooming, enticing a minor A Davenport man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to grooming and enticing a minor.
	Iowa House subcommittee discusses bill banning vaccine mandates during health emergencies Iowa lawmakers in the House of Representatives discussed vaccine mandates and what previous safety precautions should be allowed in a future public health disaster.
	Man sentenced after pleading guilty to chatting online with undercover officer posed as teenager girl A Mount Pleasant man who pleaded guilty to chatting online with an undercover officer who was posing as a teen girl in Scott County has been sentenced.
	Pregnancy complications may signal future heart, diabetes risk, researcher says Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or other complications could put you at a higher risk for chronic diseases. Here's how to keep your heart as healthy as possible.
	Iowa House committee advances bill limiting local anti-discrimination ordinances A Republican-led Iowa House committee has moved forward a bill that would prevent cities and counties from enacting their own anti-discrimination ordinances for groups not protected by the state.
	Much warmer weather and potential record high After already seeing much warmer than normal temperatures throughout this week here in the Quad Cities, more of it is to come. By the end of the week and this upcoming weekend, temperatures are looking to warm up even more reaching the mid to upper 50s. Not only are temperatures will be near 60s by [...]
	Local health experts urge young people to watch for colorectal cancer symptoms While doctors recommend getting screened for colon cancer around age 45, people with an increased risk or early warning signs should think about getting screened sooner.
	1 Rock Island High School student faces misdemeanor charge after fight Police were called this week to a fight that broke out at Rock Island-Milan High School.
	Upper Iowa University relocates to Scott Community College Bettendorf campus Upper Iowa University has announced that its Quad Cities location has relocated to Eastern Iowa Community Colleges - Scott Community College, 500 Belmont Road, Bettendorf, a news release says. Upper Iowa University is in Room 1203 on the Scott campus. "This move strengthens Upper Iowa University's long-standing partnership with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges and reinforces [...]
	School Resource Officer to leave Rock Island High School Officer Thomas Danos, the school resource officer at Rock Island High School, will be leaving his position at the school after Friday, Feb. 13. That's according to a letter obtained by Our Quad Cities News that was sent to Rock Island High School parents on Feb. 6. It was confirmed by Rock Island Police Deputy [...]
	Family Resources urges teens to recognize dating abuse , ahead of Valentine’s Day February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and advocates say unhealthy relationship behaviors often begin earlier than many people realize.
	Upper Iowa University adding location at Scott Community College University officials said Upper Iowa will accept up to 78 transferred credits from community college partners.
	Fight at Rock Island High School injures teen a day after school board discusses safety A 17-year-old faces a misdemeanor charge of battery in the incident, according to police.
	RIMSD employees placed on paid administrative leave Rock Island Milan School District's Deputy Superintendent, Jeff Dase, is on paid administrative leave after an allegation of inappropriate conduct was brought against him. That's according to a letter obtained by Our Quad Cities News. The decision to place Dase on leave while an investigation is conducted was made in late January. This is the [...]
	Scam Alert: Henry County, Iowa Sheriff’s Office warns of bail bond scam The Henry County Iowa Sheriff’s Office is warning the public of a scam they say is targeting families of incarcerated people.
	Understanding the link between pregnancy complications and long-term heart issues The link between pregnancy complications and long-term heart issues is a known problem, but has received little research.
	17-year-old arrested after fight at Rock Island High School; RSO to be pulled due to staffing issues The 17-year-old has been charged with misdemeanor battery. District officials said the 18-year-old victim is home recovering.
	Report finds children with mental health diagnoses often incarcerated instead of getting treatment Dozens of juvenile detention centers in 25 states reported holding children weeks or months as they awaited space at long-term psychiatric treatment facilities, according to a new survey.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by High Risk Unit of Iowa Department of Corrections Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	Crime Stoppers: Help ID man in Davenport attempted burglary, mischief case Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted for escape from corrections residence facility in Davenport Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	QC Rock Academy to rock out at The Rust Belt An all-star cast of old and new QC Rock Academy students will take the stage to rock the night away! Billy Gardner joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Greg Hipskind Memorial Jam at The Rust Belt. For more information, click here.
	Talking all things love and dating \| ABC10 Dating Special Looking for ways to find and keep love? ABC10 looks into online dating, and dating safety and shares tips from a relationship coach.
	Bus carrying Northwest Iowa baseball team crashes on highway, 1 student dies from injuries The crash happened around 11:30 a.m.
	QCA pet store will pay 'tribute' to your ex for Valentine's Day A pet store in Davenport is letting you pay 'tribute' to an ex in a unique way for Valentine's Day. Pet Supplies Plus will let customers share their exes' first names and then name crickets after those people. Staff will feed those crickets to the store's reptiles this Valentine's Day! Staff say each reptile can [...]
	Niabi Zoo officials show off some of their loving couples From fennec foxes to Asian small-clawed otters, Niabi has plenty of happy families!
	Winter Olympic shocker: American Chloe Kim falls short of halfpipe gold three-peat Korea's Gaon Choi, 17, rebounded from a hard fall to win gold — and end her role model's historic bid for three in a row in the Winter Olympic halfpipe.
	Chloe Kim's protégé foiled her Olympic three-peat dreams. She's celebrating anyway Korea's Gaon Choi, 17, rebounded from a hard fall to win gold — and end her role model's historic bid for three in a row in the Winter Olympic halfpipe.
	DHS expected to shut down as immigration talks falter Senate Democrats blocked two Republican-backed measures Thursday to keep the department open, including a short-term funding extension for two weeks as negotiations continue.
	Officials: Rock Island-Milan School District’s school resource officer returning to Rock Island Police Department amid staffing shortages Officer Thomas Danof has been serving the Rock Island-Milan School District as their school resource officer.
	Officials: Rock Island-Milan School District deputy superintendent placed on paid administrative leave The Rock Island-Milan School District Deputy Superintendent has been placed on paid administrative leave.
	Muscatine railroad crossing closes A Muscatine railroad crossing is closed for emergency repairs on a broken section of rail. According to a release from Muscatine City Hall, Stewart Rd. is closed at the GPC railroad spur crossing, just north of Dick Drake Way. The broken section was discovered early February 12. The City of Muscatine expects the crossing to [...]
	ICE conducted 37 investigations into officer misconduct in last year The disclosure from the agency's acting director came after immigration officers shot two U.S. citizens, intensifying questions about ICE officers' tactics, training and use of force.
	Man killed after being struck by vehicle on Rockingham Road in Davenport A 32-year-old man died after being struck by a vehicle Wednesday night on Rockingham Road in Davenport, according to police.
	Illinois GOP Senate candidates take stage in first major debate Don Tracy, Jeannie Evans and Casey Chlebek pitched themselves as best positioned to flip a Senate seat Democrats have held since 1985.
	Pedestrian dies in after being struck by vehicle in Davenport on Wednesday Police officers responded to Rockingham Road and West River Drive at about 7:09 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11.
	Rock Island police to pull school resource officer from RIHS amid staffing issues The Rock Island Police Department said police will conduct extra patrols and walk-throughs at the high school.
	1 dead in Davenport pedestrian/vehicle crash A pedestrian is dead after an incident with a motor vehicle in Davenport last night. A news release from the Davenport Police Department says Davenport Police, Fire and Medic EMS responded to the area of Rockingham Road and West River Drive on February 11 at about 7:09 p.m. in reference to a motor vehicle accident [...]
	Police: Man dies after being hit by vehicle A man has died after being hit by a vehicle Wednesday night, Davenport Police said.
	17-year-old charged with misdemeanor battery after fight at Rock Island High School The Rock Island Police Department said the other student involved, an 18-year-old, refused medical treatment at the scene.
	Federal judge orders return of Venezuelan migrants deported to El Salvador under Alien Enemies Act In his Thursday order, U.S. District Court Judge James Boasberg ordered the government to allow any of the men deported last year to El Salvador to appear in a U.S. port of entry to be conditionally allowed in as they challenge their removal.
	Have astronomers witnessed the birth of a black hole? A massive star in the nearby Andromeda galaxy has simply disappeared. Some astronomers believe that it's collapsed in on itself and formed a black hole.
	Marimar Martinez, Chicago woman shot and briefly charged by Border Patrol, moves to sue Marimar Martinez, the Chicago teacher’s aide shot five times by a Border Patrol agent last fall, will release evidence that was recently unsealed from the government’s dismissed case against her.
	Rock Island-Milan school district places deputy superintendent on paid leave The Rock Island-Milan School District has placed Deputy Superintendent Jeff Dase on administrative leave as it investigates an allegation of inappropriate conduct.
	Judge approves Mark Kelly's request for preliminary injunction against Pete Hegseth Kelly, an Arizona Democrat, sued Hegseth after the Defense Secretary moved to formally censure him for participating in a video where he told service members they can refuse illegal orders.
	Judge temporarily blocks Pentagon action against Mark Kelly over illegal orders video Kelly, an Arizona Democrat, sued Hegseth after the Defense Secretary moved to formally censure him for participating in a video where he told service members they can refuse illegal orders.
	Standing-room council meeting spotlights Davenport and Humane Society split over stray animal services The meeting was the first time hearing from council members after the announcement last week.
	Crime Stoppers: Help ID man in attempted burglary, mischief case Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	Olympic athletes push their bodies to the limit. Should we? Elite athletes often push through pain to achieve victory. But, everyday exercisers need to distinguish between soreness which is normal and pain which is the body's way of telling you to stop.
	North Dakota reports 2nd case of measles in 2026, with officials warning of community spread Vials of measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are displayed on a counter at a Walgreens Pharmacy on Jan. 26, 2015. (Photo by Illustration Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)North Dakota health officials warned Thursday about possible community spread of measles after a case was identified in Pembina County. The state’s second case of the disease for 2026 involves an unvaccinated adult who was required to be hospitalized, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. The person had not traveled and likely was exposed in North Dakota, though officials were still working to determine the source. The case in far northeastern North Dakota is not connected to the first North Dakota measles case of 2026, reported in Williams County in the northwest part of the state last week. That case also involved an unvaccinated adult, but that infection was linked to out-of-state travel. For the Pembina County case, health officials are identifying and notifying people who may have been exposed. “When measles appears in a community without a travel link, it signals that the virus may be spreading more broadly,” said Molly Howell, director of HHS disease control and forensic pathology, in a statement. North Dakota HHS released a list of exposure sites related to the Pembina County measles case. Those exposure sites are: Charras and Tequila Mexican Cuisine in Grand Forks, on Feb. 4, between noon and 3 p.m. Cavalier Public School gymnasium on Feb. 4, between 3:45 and 7 p.m. Cavalier Clinic Care waiting room on Feb. 6 between 8:30 and 11 a.m. People who were at those sites should monitor themselves for symptoms and contact a health care provider if symptoms develop. North Dakota reports first measles case of 2026 Measles symptoms often include fever, cough, runny nose and eye irritation, followed by a widespread rash, according to the department. A person who thinks they may have contracted the disease should call a health care provider before going to a medical clinic for treatment to avoid spreading the disease to others. If the person is unvaccinated, they should quarantine themselves for 21 days after the date of the exposure, the department said. Due to the potential community spread in the Pembina County measles case, the department recommends any residents and travelers to Pembina County should ensure they are vaccinated against measles. The department recommends parents of infants 6 to 11 months old consider having the child receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine. Also, any child 12 months of age or older should receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine and a second dose 28 days later. “The most effective protection we have is vaccination,” Howell said. “When individuals are immunized against measles, they protect themselves and also infants and others who may be more vulnerable to severe illness.” North Dakotans can review their vaccination records through the HHS website. In 2025, North Dakota reported 36 measles cases, the first since 2011. The department also said measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can be serious, particularly for young children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Measles spreads easily through the air and can remain in a room and on surfaces for up to two hours after a contagious person leaves the space. For more information on measles, and for updated data on the status of the disease in North Dakota, visit the HHS measles dashboard. North Dakota Monitor reporter Michael Achterling can be reached at machterling@northdakotamonitor.com. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of North Dakota Monitor
	Home decor retailer closing Davenport store later this month Home decor store Kirkland's Home is closing its Davenport location at the Elmore Market Place shopping center.
	Gold medal favorite US women dominate a Canada team missing its captain in 5-0 win The U.S. women’s hockey team so thoroughly overwhelmed rival Canada that coach John Wroblewski issued a reminder that the 5-0 victory still left the Americans a long way from Olympic gold.
	Gothic lust, chair lust and big-league dreams are in theaters this weekend A fever-dream of a "Wuthering Heights" adaptation is out this weekend starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. And Stephen Curry-produced GOAT is a speedy, snazzily animated sports flick.
	Comparing 4 minivans like the Honda Odyssey Comparing 4 minivans like the Honda OdysseyThe Honda Odyssey is one of the best-selling minivans in North America, but it faces stiff competition from the likes of the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Carnival. Is the Odyssey the best minivan you can buy? Or can a competitor knock it from its perch? CarMax highlights four alternatives to the Honda Odyssey.Honda OdysseyFirst year of current generation: 2018EPA-estimated combined fuel economy: 22 mpgPick because: Great cargo spacePass because: Fuel economy is poor and no hybrid option is disappointingThe Honda Odyssey comes with just one engine and transmission combination. The good news? That engine is powerful when compared to the competition, making the Odyssey enjoyable to drive, even up big hills with the whole family and their gear in tow. Unfortunately the engine isn’t as efficient as its competitors, and Honda doesn’t offer a hybrid version of the Odyssey, unlike the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica.The Odyssey’s second row reclines and slides to the side, one of the only minivans with this feature, making it easy to get into the third row. The third row folds down, but it must be done manually. This isn’t very difficult, but some competitors offer a power third row, which is very convenient. Overall capacity is excellent—the Odyssey beats both the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica in this area. And there are plenty of spots to store smaller items.Toyota SiennaFirst year of current generation: 2021EPA-estimated combined fuel economy: 35-36 mpgPick because: Great fuel economy, roomy interiorPass because: Sluggish engineToyota made the Sienna a hybrid when it was redesigned for the 2021 model year. Not surprisingly, that dramatically improved the Sienna’s fuel economy. It gets at least 35 mpg in combined driving, according to the EPA, even if you get the Sienna with all-wheel drive. But that fuel economy comes at a price. The engine is very sluggish and the Sienna isn’t very quick. Plus you’ll hear the engine screaming for relief when getting up to freeway speeds or tackling large hills.But there’s more to like about the Sienna than its gas mileage. Its roomy interior makes getting in and out a snap, and its large windows provide excellent visibility. The second-row seats are not removable, making this minivan’s cargo area less customizable than the Chrysler Pacifica’s. Otherwise, storage is excellent, even if its total cargo space lags behind the Honda Odyssey’s.Chrysler Pacifica HybridFirst year of current generation: 2017EPA-estimated combined fuel economy: 30 mpgEPA-estimated efficiency: 41 kWh/100 milesPick because: Fuel efficiencyPass because: Missing the regular Pacifica’s clever storageThe Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) gives you the opportunity to save even more on fuel than with a Toyota Sienna. A fully charged battery can take the Pacifica 32 miles before switching to the gas engine. The catch? You need to charge up that battery on a regular basis to get the most out of its potential efficiency. Here’s everything you need to know about charging an electric vehicle.The good news? Even without a fully charged battery, the Pacifica gets great gas mileage, an impressive EPA-estimated 30 mpg in combined driving. The bad news? That big battery needs to go somewhere. And in this case, it’s under the center of the minivan, nixing the impressive second-row storage system and Stow ’n Go fold-down second-row seats you’ll find on the non-hybrid Pacifica. You’ll need to decide between maximum storage and maximum fuel efficiency on this minivan.Chrysler PacificaFirst year of current generation: 2017EPA-estimated combined fuel economy: 20-22 mpgPick because: Clever storage systemPass because: So-so comfort and fuel economyThe non-hybrid Chrysler Pacifica is a great minivan if you’re primarily interested in storage. The Pacifica’s clever Stow ’n Go second row allows you to store the second row in the floor, something you don’t get on its hybrid counterpart. The trade-off is fuel economy. The two-wheel-drive Pacifica gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in combined driving, which is OK and on par with the Honda Odyssey. But it can’t compete with the hybrid Pacifica or the Toyota Sienna, which is only available as a hybrid.Kia CarnivalFirst year of current generation: 2022EPA-estimated combined fuel economy: 22 mpgPick because: Lots of standard featuresPass because: Fuel economy—for nowEdmunds ranks the Kia Carnival fourth out of five minivans, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. The Carnival is a good minivan that comes with a lot of standard features on the base LX trim, including driver aids like forward collision mitigation and blind-spot awareness. Stepping up one trim level, to the EX, adds a bigger touchscreen display, heated seats, and an interior camera and intercom system. Its fuel economy is competitive with other nonhybrid minivans but lags behind the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid. The good news is Kia is debuting a hybrid version of the Carnival for the 2025 model year.ConclusionThe Honda Odyssey is a great choice if you’re in the market for a minivan, but it’s not the only strong contender out there. Whether you’re looking for great fuel economy with the Toyota Sienna, a plug-in hybrid like the Chrysler Pacifica, or something more affordable like the Kia Carnival, there’s a minivan out there to suit your needs.This story was produced by CarMax and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Don Toliver and Ella Langley top the Billboard charts This week, country star Ella Langley and rapper Don Toliver hit career milestones on the pop charts.
	15 graduation party invitation ideas 15 graduation party invitation ideasLooking for creative ways to invite guests to your graduation celebration? Grad Party Invites has 15 inspiring invitation ideas that will set the perfect tone for your special day.1. Classic Photo InvitationFeature a professional graduation portrait as the centerpiece of your invitation. This timeless approach showcases your achievement and gives guests a beautiful keepsake. Choose a formal portrait or a candid moment that captures your personality.2. Photo Collage DesignTell your story through multiple photos spanning your academic journey. Include memorable moments, friendships, and milestones that led to this achievement. This nostalgic approach helps guests celebrate the full journey with you.3. Minimalist TypographyLet clean, bold typography do the talking. A minimalist design with elegant fonts and simple color schemes creates a sophisticated, modern look. Perfect for graduates who appreciate understated elegance and contemporary design.4. School Colors ThemeIncorporate your school's colors throughout the invitation design. This shows pride in your institution while creating a cohesive look that guests will immediately recognize. Add school mascots or symbols for extra school spirit.5. Floral EleganceSoft floral designs add a touch of sophistication and natural beauty. Whether you choose watercolor flowers, botanical illustrations, or pressed-flower patterns, floral invitations bring an elegant, timeless quality to your announcement.6. Gold Foil AccentsAdd luxury with metallic gold foil details highlighting key information. Gold accents catch the light and create a premium feel that makes your invitation stand out. Perfect for formal celebrations and graduates who want to add glamour.7. Vintage StyleEmbrace retro charm with vintage-inspired designs featuring classic fonts, aged paper effects, and nostalgic color palettes. This timeless style works beautifully for both traditional and eclectic celebrations.8. Modern Geometric PatternsContemporary geometric shapes and patterns create visual interest and a fresh, current aesthetic. Bold lines, abstract designs, and strategic use of negative space give your invitation a trendy, artistic edge.9. Chalkboard DesignThe chalkboard aesthetic brings a casual, handcrafted feel to your invitation. With hand-drawn elements and chalk-style typography, this design mimics the classroom experience in a charming, approachable way.10. Confetti and Celebration GraphicsEmbrace the festive spirit with confetti patterns, balloons, and celebratory graphics. This playful approach signals a fun, energetic party atmosphere and sets an upbeat tone for your celebration.11. Elegant Formal DesignTraditional formal invitations with classic layouts, serif fonts, and sophisticated borders never go out of style. This approach works perfectly for formal dinner celebrations and dignified ceremonies.12. Digital AnimationFor digital invitations, consider adding subtle animations or GIF elements. Moving confetti, fading text, or animated graphics add a modern, tech-savvy touch that engages recipients and stands out in their inbox.13. Before and After PhotosCreate a fun side-by-side comparison showing your transformation throughout your academic journey. This lighthearted approach adds personality and humor while celebrating your growth and achievement.14. Destination ThemeIf you're planning a destination celebration or outdoor event, reflect that in your invitation design. Beach themes, garden party aesthetics, or venue-specific elements help guests understand the celebration's vibe and dress appropriately.15. Custom IllustrationCommission or create custom illustrations that represent your interests, field of study, or future plans. Whether it's artistic portraits, career-themed graphics, or hobby-inspired designs, custom illustrations make your invitation truly one-of-a-kind.Choosing the Right Design for YouWhen selecting your graduation invitation design, consider these factors:Party Style: Match your invitation design to your celebration's formality levelPersonal Style: Choose designs that reflect your personality and aesthetic preferencesBudget: Digital invitations offer beautiful designs at lower costs than printed optionsTimeline: Digital invitations arrive instantly, while printed cards need shipping timeGuest List: Consider your audience and what design styles will resonate with themDigital vs. Printed InvitationsEach format has unique advantages. Digital invitations are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and arrive instantly. They also allow for interactive elements like RSVP buttons and calendar integration. Printed invitations offer a tangible keepsake and work well for formal celebrations or when guests may not regularly check email.Personalization TipsRegardless of which design you choose, personalization makes your invitation special:Include your graduation date and institutionAdd party details: date, time, location, dress codeIncorporate personal photos or meaningful graphicsChoose colors that represent you or your schoolWrite a personal message or quote that reflects your journeyInclude RSVP information and any special instructionsFinal ThoughtsYour graduation party invitation is the first glimpse guests will have of your celebration. Whether you choose a classic photo design, modern minimalist style, or playful confetti theme, the most important thing is that it reflects you and sets the right tone for your special day. Don't be afraid to mix elements from different ideas to create something uniquely yours!This story was produced by Grad Party Invites and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Muscatine teacher named Iowa STEM Teacher Award recipient The Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council named a Muscatine teacher one of six 2026 Iowa STEM Teacher Award recipients. According to a release from the Iowa Department of Education, the annual award, sponsored by Google, honors teachers across Iowa for their contributions and dedication to science, technology, engineering and [...]
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| Feb. 12, 2026 There are many family-friendly events going on this weekend, and we've brought in Dani Howe from WLLR to break it down.
	Soybean wars: When a commodity becomes a political weapon Soybean wars: When a commodity becomes a political weaponA boycott on soybeans by China left U.S. soybean farmers without their primary customer for the bulk of 2025, with many still struggling after China agreed to resume purchasing in October.Soybeans were just one of dozens of farm products that saw lower prices in 2025 because of global trade wars initiated by President Trump, who slapped tariffs on nearly every country in the world this past year.Addressing the rough year for farmers, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced in December of 2025 a $12 billion farmer bailout program to be delivered in 2026, but many farmers and farm advocacy groups are left unsatisfied by the deal.“Are we going to end up having to rely on the taxpayer to make us whole from here on out?” said Gene Stehly, a soybean, corn, and wheat farmer from South Dakota. “I don’t know of one farmer who wouldn’t prefer the free market,” he said to The Daily Yonder.Soybean farmers like Stehly were collateral damage in Trump’s trade wars, according to Ryan Mulholland, senior fellow in international economic policy at the Center for American Progress.“China simply stopped buying soybeans as a form of protest [against the tariffs] and as a form of building leverage, knowing how much that would hurt the U.S. agricultural sector,” he said.“And it did.”The U.S. exported nearly 27 million tons of soybeans to China in 2024, and almost none in 2025. The October agreement between the U.S. and China guaranteed 12 million tons of soybeans would be exported to China through January, but still, the months without Chinese sales contributed to very low profits for farmers. That’s why in December of 2025, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced $12 billion for the farmers through the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program.The money will come as a one-time payment and is expected to hit farmers’ bank accounts by Feb. 28, according to Secretary Rollins. Eligible commodities include barley, corn, soybeans, and wheat, for which farmers will be paid per acre. (A full list of eligible commodities can be found here.)Stehly said the payments are certainly a welcome relief — he’ll get $44.36 per acre of corn, $30.88 per acre of soybeans, and $39.35 per acre of wheat he farms — but the money won’t make up for the profit loss he experienced in 2025.“It’ll help, but it won’t make me whole,” Stehly said.The February timeline will also make for a tight turnaround time for farmers who will be relying on that money to get ready for the coming growing season. And, because it’s a one-time payment, it doesn’t offer any sort of continuous relief to farmers who could take years to bounce back from low 2025 commodity prices.Many economic experts are calling the bridge payments a “band-aid” solution to a more systemic issue. “It’s a very small amount of money without dealing with the larger structural problems in agriculture that we have right now,” said Ben Lilliston, director of rural strategies at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy.Lilliston pointed to corporate consolidation (when companies are bought up and merged together, decreasing competition in the market), rising input costs and lower commodity prices, and a federal crackdown on immigrant farmworking communities as just some of the most pressing issues facing agriculture today.“This is kind of a perfect storm, and that’s why people are really concerned about a potential emerging farm crisis, if it’s not already here,” Lilliston said.The tariffs are just the latest in a long line of trade disputes that have inadvertently put farmers in the middle of them. For example, the grain embargo of the early 1980s initiated by the Carter administration against the Soviet Union greatly harmed business for U.S. grain farmers, and directly preceded the 1980s farm crisis, wherein thousands of farmers went bankrupt.“Tariffs, regardless of who puts them on, are really hard on agriculture,” Stehly said. He’s been farming since the 1980s and experienced firsthand the effect of the grain embargo. He said the 2025 trade wars felt similar to what the grain embargo did to his business.“When [the federal government] starts using my commodity as some sort of leverage, some sort of weapon, I’m the one that suffers,” Stehly said. “And this time is no different.”This story was produced by The Daily Yonder and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance will meet in Riverdale; public welcome The Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance meeting will be 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, at Riverdale City Hall, 110 Manor Drive, Riverdale, a news release says. The general public, city/county/village leaders and administrators; emergency management personnel; floodplain managers; public works personnel; local and state-level elected officials; resident and property owners in the region are invited. [...]
	Davenport man arrested, charged with child sexual abuse A man from Davenport is in the Scott County Jail after police say he sexually abused a child in 2024 and 2025. The criminal complaint filed in Scott County Court says on January 5, Davenport Police received a report of a child sexual assault that occurred in the 7100 block of W. 60th Street. Officers [...]
	Much warmer days ahead for the Quad Cities A system moving through the area Thursday morning brought a few sprinkles and flurries, but most of us stayed dry. Our next best chance of rain holds off until early next week. February is off to a warmer than normal start. This week alone, highs made it into the 40s and low-50s. Here's your full [...]
	New weight-loss pill: 6 things you should know New weight-loss pill: 6 things you should knowFor decades, researchers have been looking for an effective weight-loss pill. But the recent success of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) weight-loss injections has sparked new hope — especially for those frustrated with existing oral options.But for many, injections aren’t the most convenient or preferred choice. The possibility of achieving similar weight-loss results with a daily pill is appealing — and is now a reality. The FDA approved Wegovy (semaglutide), which was previously available only as an injectable GLP-1, in pill form for weight loss.GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, shares what you should know about oral semaglutide (Wegovy) for weight loss — how it works, how to take it, and more.Key takeaways:Wegovy (semaglutide) was initially available as a weekly injection. Recently, the FDA has approved an oral pill version that you take every day.The 25 mg Wegovy pill dose may lead to similar weight loss as the 2.4 mg Wegovy injection dose.It’s possible to switch from Wegovy injections to Wegovy pills (and vice versa). Your prescriber can help you do this safely.1. Wegovy pills work the same way in the body as the injectionsBoth injectable and oral Wegovy contain the same active ingredient: semaglutide. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps people lose weight by:Activating the brain’s appetite centers to reduce hunger and food cravings.Slowing how quickly food leaves the stomach, which can help you feel full sooner and for longer.Managing blood glucose (blood sugar) levels to prevent spikes after eating.The main difference between oral and injectable semaglutide is how it enters the body, not what it does once it’s there.Good to know: Oral semaglutide is also available in lower doses for Type 2 diabetes as Rybelsus. Its injectable counterpart is sold as Ozempic.2. Oral Wegovy has shown weight loss similar to Wegovy injectionsWegovy injections and pills haven’t been compared directly in a study. But separately, both forms appear to result in similar amounts of weight loss.The OASIS 4 trial studied the 25 mg oral semaglutide dose. The study included adults considered obese or overweight with at least one weight-related health condition. At 64 weeks (almost 15 months), people in the semaglutide group lost almost 14% of their starting body weight on average. Those who remained on treatment for the full duration lost about 17% on average.The OASIS 4 results are comparable to the results from the largest injectable Wegovy trial. Participants had about 15% average weight loss with the highest dose (2.4 mg) within a similar timeframe.However, it’s important to keep in mind that higher injectable Wegovy doses may be approved in the near future. During studies, the 7.2 mg dose resulted in nearly 21% average weight loss.3. Oral Wegovy is taken every day to build up consistent levels in the bodyWegovy injections are administered once a week. This is because most of the dose reaches your bloodstream, and it takes your body about one week to remove half of it. The Wegovy pill, on the other hand, isn't absorbed as well. So it’s taken daily to help build and maintain a steady level of the medication in your bloodstream.Taking Wegovy pills every day as directed helps you get the most from the medication. If you find that you’re missing doses, there are medication reminder apps and other strategies that can help keep you on track.4. Wegovy pills need to be taken on an empty stomach — and timing really mattersBecause they are absorbed differently than the injections, Wegovy pills have specific instructions to follow. This helps ensure that you’re absorbing as much of your dose as possible. You’ll need to:Take your dose first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking anything else.Swallow it with no more than 4 oz of plain water (no coffee, juice, or other drinks).Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking other liquids, or taking other medications.Skipping or shortening this wait time can reduce how much semaglutide your body absorbs.5. You’ll start with a low oral Wegovy dose and work your way upIf you’re new to treatment with Wegovy, you’ll follow a specific dosage schedule when starting Wegovy pills. This involves starting with a low-dose tablet that’s gradually increased every month or so until you reach a target maintenance dose, similar to Wegovy injections. Following this schedule helps your body get used to the medication and minimizes side effects.But if you’re switching directly from Wegovy injections, you may start with a comparable oral dose right away. Your prescriber will give you instructions for the dose and timing the transition.6. Oral Wegovy can cause side effects similar to injectable WegovySince both forms contain semaglutide, they can cause similar side effects. The main difference is that Wegovy injections can cause injection site reactions (such as irritation), while the pills do not.Common side effectsThese side effects are most likely to occur when starting Wegovy treatment or after your dose is increased. They’re usually mild to moderate in severity and tend to improve over time.NauseaVomitingDiarrheaStomach painConstipationIndigestionSerious risks to know aboutMore serious but less common risks include:Gallbladder problems, such as gallstonesPancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)Gastroparesis (slowed stomach emptying)Kidney problems, often related to dehydrationPotential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors (boxed warning)Because of potential thyroid risks, people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, or with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, shouldn’t take semaglutide. You may also be advised to avoid semaglutide if you have a history of pancreatitis or severe gastroparesis.Can you switch from Wegovy injections to Wegovy pills (and vice versa)?Yes, it’s possible to switch between Wegovy injections and Wegovy pills.If you’re currently using the 2.4 mg Wegovy injection dose, you can switch to the 25 mg pill. You’ll wait one week after your last injection before starting the pill. And if you’re taking the 25 mg Wegovy pill dose, you can switch to the 2.4 mg injection (or 1.7 mg if you can’t tolerate the 25 mg pill). You’ll start the injection the day after stopping the pill.Your healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate dose and timing based on your current treatment, side effects, and personal preference.How to save on the Wegovy pillThere are ways to save on the Wegovy pill, which is available as a brand-name medication. Coupons and manufacturer copay cards can help make your prescription more affordable. If you have commercial insurance, you could pay as little as $25 per month with a copay savings card.The bottom lineOral semaglutide (Wegovy) is now FDA-approved for weight loss. This provides a new option for people who are interested in a daily pill or don’t want to give themselves shots. Weight loss appears to be comparable between the Wegovy injection and the pill.Wegovy pills have specific instructions to follow when taking them to ensure proper absorption. This includes taking your dose first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with no more than 4 oz of plain water. You’ll also need to wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications.Talk to your healthcare team if you’re interested in starting or switching to Wegovy pills. They can help determine if oral Wegovy is a good fit for you.This story was produced by GoodRx and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	U.S. cross-country star Jessie Diggins claims bronze, medaling in third straight Olympics She's done it again. Jessie Diggins, age 34 and skiing in her final Olympics, captured a bronze medal for the U.S. at the Milan Cortina Games. She battled through the pain from injured ribs to reach the podium.
	Court rebuffs plea from domestic workers for better pay and respect They're often paid low wages and lack job protections. A petition to the country's supreme court to support their demands did not see success — and they are protesting.
	How to estimate what your home will sell for in 2026 How to estimate what your home will sell for in 2026Are you selling your home in 2026? If so, you’ve probably already asked the question, “What will my home sell for?” and are curious about the best way to find out.However, the answer will depend heavily on several factors, including how you are selling the home, when you are selling it, and the overall strength of your local market.In this quick guide from HomeLight, you’ll learn how to estimate what your home will sell for in 2026, what valuation tools are at your disposal, and see expert insights that can help you decide which method of selling is right for you … and your wallet.How can I estimate my home’s worth?Thankfully, there are several easy ways to estimate your home’s value and set a listing price, letting you gauge how much it might sell for and plan accordingly.“A home’s sale price is really driven by three big buckets: location, the property itself, and current market conditions,” explains Jamie McMartin, a top-rated Texas real estate agent with over 19 years of experience. “Location and neighborhood (schools, commute, specific street), combined with size, layout, condition, and level of updating, set the basic value range, while local supply and demand, interest rates, and recent comparable sales determine how aggressively buyers will compete for it within that range.”1. Use an online valuation tool like an automated valuation modelFor a fast and easy estimate of your home’s market value, consider using one of the several home valuation tools that exist online. These calculators typically use an automated valuation model, or AVM, which looks at a variety of local market data, such as comparable homes in your market, recent sales data, and more, to give you a rough estimate of your home’s value in just a few minutes.You’ll simply enter some basic information about your property, such as its address, and you’ll get a ballpark valuation of your home. While AVMs are a great starting point, it’s important to remember that there is a lot they don’t consider in their analyses, such as a detailed assessment of the home’s condition, unique architectural features, or any recent upgrades or additions you may have made.Sites like Zillow, Redfin, and HomeLight all offer their own versions of AVMs, each with its own bells and whistles.Sean Keene, an Oregon real estate agent with nearly 20 years of experience, points to tools like Zillow’s “Zestimates” as one of the most popular of these calculators, but cautions that there are a lot of things these tools miss.“The analogy that I give is this: when you go to the grocery store, how many different kinds of apples are there? How many different prices are there for apples? Zillow sees every house as a red delicious apple and struggles to tell them apart. The algorithm can not see what we [real estate agents] can see with our own eyes,” Keene adds.Should I use an AI chatbot to determine my home’s worth?While it might be tempting to let an AI chatbot like ChatGPT or Gemini take a stab at guessing what your home is worth, both McMartin and Keene are skeptical that these tools are well-suited to give homeowners an accurate assessment of their home’s value or what it will sell for.“Just as the Zestimates can come close, AI can not see what we see with our eyes right then and there,” says Keene.“AI chatbots like Gemini or ChatGPT are great for education and strategy brainstorming, but I would not treat them as a standalone pricing tool. They usually don’t have live access to a local multiple listing service, can’t see the home’s actual condition or micro-location, and may rely on generalized or lagging data, so their estimates can be off or lack crucial nuance,” warns McMartin.“I see them as a helpful ‘second opinion’ to generate questions and perspectives you can bring to your agent, not as a replacement for a data‑driven CMA and an in-person evaluation,” she adds.Instead, consider using a Home Sale Net Proceeds Calculator. This type of tool is great for helping you break down what you might earn from selling your home, letting you factor in a real estate agent’s commission, how much is left on your mortgage (if any), and more. This can give you a clearer snapshot of what you might earn when all is said and done, and help you plan accordingly.2. Consult a real estate agent and get a comparative market analysisIf your AVM estimate looks good and you want to take the next step, it’s time to start thinking about contacting a top local real estate agent.An experienced real estate agent is usually going to have a finger on the pulse in their respective market, and as such, is best equipped to help you estimate what your home will sell for. But more than that, a skilled agent can provide you with a comparative market analysis (CMA), often for free.A CMA is a tool that real estate agents use to determine the value of a home by assessing various features about the property, like its size, age, location, and more, against similar properties in the area that have recently sold. The goal is to compare your home with similar properties to determine the correct starting price to list it for (which can, of course, change depending on potential future bids or how the listing shakes out).“A comparative market analysis helps a seller move from a vague idea of ‘what my home is worth’ to a data-backed price range based on recent sales, current competition, and how their home’s condition and features stack up,” says McMartin.McMartin calls CMAs one of the best ways to anticipate what buyers are likely to pay for a home in the next 30 to 60 days.“Most full‑service real estate agents do offer a CMA as part of a listing consultation, often at no cost, but the real value comes from choosing an agent who can clearly explain the data and customize the strategy to that specific property and market,” McMartin says.3. Hire a professional appraiser for unique property situationsIf the home you’re selling is especially unique, of unusually high value, or in an area with few comparable sales (comps) and limited market data, you might want to purchase a pre-listing appraisal. A professional appraisal can help you determine the most appropriate list price to avoid over- or underpricing. However, for most sellers, a CMA from a top agent is more than sufficient.What if I want to sell my home for cash?Maybe you’ve looked into working with a real estate agent and decided that you just need to sell your home quickly and be done with it. Perhaps you have an unwanted inherited house or a home that needs a lot of work. In that case, you might want to consider obtaining a cash offer.There are many ways to sell your home for cash. For example, there are modern online platforms that provide near-instant quotes and “We Buy Houses” companies that specialize in purchasing homes for cash, often in a matter of days, regardless of the property’s condition. This is usually ideal for sellers dealing with time-sensitive issues, such as avoiding a foreclosure or relocating for a new job.Redfin lists the median days on market nationwide for December 2025 at 60. Compare that to working with a local We Buy Houses company, which can usually purchase a home in days rather than months with minimal effort on the seller’s part, and it’s easy to see why a cash offer might be appealing.However, there is a downside. While cash buyers are known for their speed, this comes at a cost. Most cash offers are well below a property’s market value. This is because cash buyers typically use the 70% rule, which means they generally won’t pay more than 70% of a home’s after-repair value (ARV), minus the cost of repairs, when purchasing a property.For example, if a property with an ARV of $300,000 needs $45,000 in repairs, a cash offer might look something like this:Step 1: ($300,000 × 0.70) = $210,000Step 2: $210,000 – $45,000 (the estimated cost of repairs) = $165,000Cash offer amount: $165,000Depending on the condition of your property and other market conditions, this could be even lower. Some cash buyers, like iBuyers, will pay more, but they typically focus only on properties in good to excellent condition — often called “turnkey homes.”Conversely, a real estate agent can likely get you a higher price for the same property, perhaps around $290,000 in this example scenario. This is much closer to its full market value; however, it may take longer, and you’ll need to factor agent commissions into your net proceeds.“A cash offer is going to be quick and easy — you most likely won’t negotiate the price. You just get the offer and decide whether or not to take it. There is no cleaning up the house for showings and such. The downside is that they are investors buying the home and will turn around and want to sell it, so they won’t offer you full price,” says Keene.“A cash offer typically wins on speed, certainty, and convenience with fewer contingencies, faster closing, often as is. A traditional, well‑marketed listing with an agent usually takes more time and effort, but exposes the property to the widest buyer pool and gives the best chance of achieving top dollar through competition,” says McMartin.Want more examples? Try a Home Cash Offer Comparison Calculator. You can put in your home’s estimated value and get a quick comparison of what it might sell for between a We Buy Houses company or investor, a traditional iBuyer, and a real estate agent.I want to sell my home on my own. How much can I get?You might also be tempted to sell your property on your own, skipping agent fees and commissions to save money and making a “for sale by owner” (FSBO) sale.One way to get the most out of an FSBO sale is to use a flat-fee MLS listing company. These companies help DIY sellers list their homes on the local multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS is a private directory of for-sale homes that real estate professionals use to share home details with each other.The main benefit is that the MLS puts your home in front of a wider pool of potential buyers, as FSBO sellers typically do not have access to it.Flat-fee MLS listing companies are available at both the local and national levels, and their fees range from as low as $90 to thousands of dollars, with varying levels of service available at different tiers.While this can be a great tool for FSBO sellers, many homeowners underestimate the time and effort that goes into selling a home, and doing it solo means juggling everything, from listing and marketing the property to contracts, negotiations, and more.As such, increasingly, homeowners are relying on agents to get the job done. According to the National Association of Realtors, only 5% of successful home sales have been FSBO in the past few years. What’s more, these homes sold for a median price of around $360,000, compared to a median price of $425,000 for an agent-assisted sale — 18% less.McMartin does not recommend that sellers undertake an FSBO transaction, primarily because the increasing complexity of selling a home, particularly in competitive markets, makes it more difficult than ever.“Pricing, marketing, qualifying buyers, contract negotiations, inspections, appraisals, and legal compliance have all become more complex, and many FSBO sellers either underprice (leaving money on the table) or overprice (sitting on the market and ultimately discounting),” she says.McMartin concedes that there are limited areas where an FSBO sale can make sense, like an “as-is” sale to a buyer you know, but “even then, I still encourage sellers to involve a professional (agent or attorney) to reduce their potential risk,” she adds.How will the real estate market fare in 2026?The 2025 housing market struggled. In a HomeLight survey of more than 850 top real estate agents across the country, many said their markets experienced a general “freeze,” with buyers slow to act due to affordability issues and sellers suffering in turn.Will 2026 be better? Agents and other industry experts are, for the most part, optimistic. 74% of agents surveyed predict that homeowners who delayed entering the market in recent years are likely to make an attempt in 2026.“I’m expecting sellers to list in the new year. I’m excited for a 2026 with decent interest rates and improved inventory levels,” said Barbara Sawin, a top-rated Connecticut agent, in the report.Similarly, Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with the National Association of Realtors, expects a bit of bounceback this year, and a steady reduction of the “lock-in” effect — a phenomenon where homeowners are unwilling to sell, because the purchase of a new home will mean buying with a much higher interest rate than they currently hold.“We are seeing a little better condition for more home sales … with more inventory and the lock-in effect steadily disappearing — because life-changing events are making more people list their property to move on to their next home,” Yun said in a NAR market forecast.“Next year should be better with lower mortgage rates, and that will qualify more buyers. We are expecting home sales to increase by about 14% nationwide in 2026.” As in 2025, real estate success will be heavily defined across regional lines, with some markets faring significantly better than others. For example, Realtor.com expects its top 10 markets to be primarily in the Northeastern United States, in cities like Rochester, New York. It attributes the success of these markets to several factors, including relative affordability, a below-average “lock-in” effect, less overall new construction (which creates more demand for existing property), and a bevy of well-qualified buyers.McMartin also expects this region and the Midwest to see success.“Most forecasts point to 2026 as a ‘normalizing’ year rather than a boom or bust: modest national price growth, slightly lower mortgage rates, and a bit more inventory. Markets in parts of the Northeast and Midwest, especially affordable metros with solid job bases and limited new construction, have strong potential to outperform as buyers look for value and stability,” she says.However, regions like the Southeast and some coastal cities, which had been real estate market darlings in previous years due to strong fundamentals, are expected to take a step back amid growing economic headwinds.“On the flip side, some pandemic‑era areas in the South and certain coastal or climate risk markets may soften or feel flatter as insurance costs, weather concerns, and a normalization of remote work cool demand; a dynamic I’ll be watching closely as the ‘Great Housing Reset’ continues to unfold,” McMartin adds.Keene predicts that if mortgage rates do indeed dip to more favorable levels, buyers who have been waiting in the wings will likely enter the fray.“If the rates get in the upper-to-mid 4%, you are going to see a lot of sellers enter the market who have been holding off because of a low Covid rate. At the upper-to-mid 4%, they can get a rate buy-down and still feel like they have a screaming good rate,” he says.This story was produced by HomeLight and reviewed and distributed by reviewed Stacker.
	MercyOne Genesis Eldridge clinic expanding The two new physicians can treat up to 5,000 patients.
	Spy agency says Kim Jong Un's daughter is close to be North Korea's future leader Seoul's assessment comes as North Korea is preparing to hold its biggest political conference later this month, where Kim is expected to outline his major policy goals for the next five years.
	What is digital transformation? And how to build a digital transformation strategy What is digital transformation? And how to build a digital transformation strategyWithout the right approach, digital transformation can feel like being trapped in a Kafka novella. Except instead of waking up as a bug, you've transformed your business processes into an endless loop of clunky legacy tools and mysterious IT dependencies.That's why it's important to meet the digital moment strategically and with purpose. Digital transformation is about rethinking how your business works—not just adopting every shiny new tool you see. When done right, it means breaking free from clunky, hard-to-scale systems and building something more flexible and human-centered.In this guide, Zapier explains what digital transformation actually means, why it matters, and how AI and automation can accelerate the process. Plus, the guide describes how you can start building a transformation strategy that doesn't just look flashy but actually works for your team.What is digital transformation?Digital transformation is the process of changing how your business operates in a world where digital tools are the norm, not the bonus. It's not just about switching from paper forms to PDFs or even using a dedicated customer relationship management (CRM) tool in place of a spreadsheet. Instead, it's about using technology to reimagine workflows, customer experiences, and even your business model from the ground up.Digital optimization vs. digital transformationWhile the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, digital optimization isn't the same thing as digital transformation.Digital optimization is when you use digital tools to make an existing process more efficient. You might automate a manual task, streamline a report, or swap out a legacy system for something more modern. It's like upgrading your car: You ditch the old stereo for one of those fancy touch screen interfaces, add heated seats, and maybe even get better tires. The car runs more smoothly and uses some modern features, but it's still the same vehicle, running on the same roads (and in my case, just as in need of an oil change).Digital transformation, on the other hand, asks: What's the best way to do this, now that we're not limited by old systems? Instead of focusing on upgrading what exists, it imagines what's possible. That could mean:Shifting from selling products to offering a subscription-based serviceReorganizing your team structure around digital workflowsLetting automation and AI handle routine operations so your team can focus on higher-impact workIn other words, digital transformation is like ditching the car altogether and rethinking how you get from point A to B. Maybe you switch to a rideshare model, build a fleet of electric scooters, or redesign your city to prioritize walkability and public transit. You're reimagining the entire system based on what's possible with modern technology.While transformation might sound more daunting, it doesn't have to be. You don't need to blow up your business overnight, but you do need to be willing to let go of "the way we've always done it." You'll need to start building systems that are flexible and ready for whatever comes next.Core characteristics of digital transformationSince the whole concept of digital transformation requires thinking outside the box, you can't follow a simple checklist for your own business. But most successful digital transformation efforts still share a few core traits—so here's what to keep in mind.1. Customer-centricity above allDigital transformation starts (and succeeds) with the customer. That means reorienting your tools, processes, and teams around delivering more efficient and personalized experiences.Rather than just adopting flashy tech for the sake of it, try asking: "How does this help us serve our customers better?" You might decide to reduce friction in onboarding, respond to requests more quickly, or proactively surface the right content at the right time. Regardless, transformation efforts should tie back to a clear customer benefit.2. End-to-end process rethinkingTrue transformation doesn't happen in a silo. It's not just one team upgrading a tool—it's rethinking how the entire business runs. That might mean:Breaking down data silos between marketing, sales, and opsMapping the full customer journey and identifying automation opportunitiesCoordinating handoffs across teams in a smarter, more agile wayBeyond just moving faster, the goal is to build systems that are more connected and better equipped to adapt when things change.3. Tech is an enabler, not the goalIt's easy to fall into the trap of chasing new tools just to say you're innovating. But real transformation isn't about collecting AI tools or onboarding the latest SaaS trend—it's about using technology to unlock better outcomes for your business and your customers.The tech should enable agility and insight, not add more friction or complexity.Why is digital transformation important?Digital transformation isn't just a nice-to-have anymore. The way we work—and the way our customers expect to interact with us—has fundamentally changed.Here's why that matters:Customers want better experiences. People expect fast, personalized, and seamless interactions. Transformation makes you better-equipped to meet those expectations.Your team is drowning in manual work. Outdated systems slow everyone down.Your tools need to talk to each other. Data silos mean missed insights and messy handoffs. Digital transformation connects the dots so your systems (and teams) work smarter together.It makes your business more agile. When things shift (e.g., new priorities, market changes, emerging tech), having flexible, automated systems makes it easier to pivot fast.It sets the stage for long-term growth. Beyond just fixing what's broken, transformation lets you build a foundation that scales with you, no matter what's next.AI and digital transformationWhen used right, AI can be a massive accelerator for digital transformation. It can help you get there faster, whether you're looking to make better decisions, personalize customer experiences, or automate time-consuming tasks.AI-powered tools can analyze massive amounts of data, uncover patterns, and make predictions that would take humans days or weeks. That means you can route tickets intelligently or surface the right insights in real time, all without manually sifting through spreadsheets.Low-code and no-code AI is also opening the door for everyone. Not every team has a data scientist or machine learning engineer on hand—and that shouldn't be a blocker. AI can become just another step in your workflow, doing things like enriching data, summarizing content, or routing leads based on sentiment.But like any powerful tool, it comes with caveats. Hallucinations, bias in training data, and lack of transparency are real risks—especially when you're using AI to automate decisions at scale. Digital transformation teams need to think critically about:Where and how AI is usedHow decisions are audited and explainedWho's accountable when something goes wrong Zapier How to build a digital transformation strategy for your businessDigital transformation doesn't happen by accident or all at once. It takes a clear strategy, the right tools, and a lot of cross-functional alignment. Here's how to start building a plan that works for your business.Assess your current digital maturityBefore you map out where you're going, you need to understand where you are. What parts of your business are still running on manual processes? Which teams are already experimenting with automation or AI? Are your tools connected—or cobbled together?A simple audit can help build a shared understanding of your starting point. Look at:How data flows (or doesn't) across departmentsWhat processes still require human handoffsWhere customers or employees are experiencing frictionSet clear goals tied to business outcomesDigital transformation should support real business priorities—whether that's increasing revenue, improving customer retention, or reducing time-to-resolution in support.Tie each transformation initiative to a specific outcome. For example:Automating lead routing should reduce response time by X amountCentralizing ops workflows should improve handoff accuracy between teams by X percentClear goals help everyone stay aligned and make it easier to measure progress along the way.Choose leaders to spearhead the projectBeyond mere executive buy-in, digital transformation needs leaders who can break down silos, advocate for change, and keep the work moving forward when priorities shift. Ideally, you'll have both:Executive sponsors who can remove roadblocks and secure the budget.On-the-ground leaders who understand the day-to-day realities of how work gets done.In smaller companies, this might be one person wearing multiple hats. In larger organizations, consider forming a transformation task force with reps from each major team.Choose the right toolsTech should support your strategy, not dictate it. That means picking flexible platforms that are scalable and built for collaboration across teams, not just isolated fixes.Build in safeguards for implementing AIAI can supercharge your transformation—but it also introduces risk. Before you plug it into every workflow, ask:What data is being used to train or prompt this model?How are decisions being reviewed or validated?What happens when the model gets it wrong?AI-powered workflows should include human checkpoints where needed—especially in customer-facing or compliance-heavy contexts.Build incrementally, but think bigYou don't need to rebuild everything overnight. Start with one or two high-impact workflows, prove the value, and expand from there. Look for quick wins, but keep your eyes on long-term transformation.The key is to keep the momentum going. Celebrate small wins, share what's working, and continuously revisit your goals as your business evolves.How to measure digital transformation successYou've launched new workflows, upgraded your tools, and maybe even tossed around the word "orchestration" in a meeting. But how do you know if your digital transformation is actually working?Successful digital transformation doesn't stop at rolling out new tech. It should make meaningful improvements to how your business operates and how your customers experience your brand. That means measuring outcomes, not just effort.Here's how to track what matters.Start with your original goalsRemember those goals you set at the beginning of your transformation strategy? (If not, now's the time to write them down. Incorporate them into a custom inspirational poster for your office if you have to.) Measuring success starts with revisiting those goals and asking:Have we improved speed, accuracy, or consistency?Are we seeing better customer satisfaction or retention?Are we freeing up time for higher-value work?Choose the right KPIsRemember: The best KPIs are tied to business outcomes, not just tool adoption.Build feedback loopsDigital transformation is iterative, not a one-and-done effort. You need to know what's working, what's stuck, and where the next opportunity lies.Make feedback part of your process by:Running short surveys or pulse checks with internal teamsReviewing usage data to spot automation bottlenecks or underused integrationsSetting up automations to flag issues in real time (for example, sending an alert when a form fails to trigger the right workflow)Are you ready for digital transformation?Digital transformation doesn't have to be a bureaucratic fever dream. It's not about chasing every shiny new tool or ripping out everything that works—it's about being intentional when designing systems that are human-centered and ready for whatever's next.Transformation is also an ongoing process, whether you're just starting out or already elbows-deep in automation. It requires curiosity, a willingness to rethink the status quo, and the right tools to help you move faster without burning out your team.This story was produced by Zapier and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Open house will celebrate Tunnicliff's years as director of LeClaire Community Library Feb. 28 will mark Melita Tunnicliff’s last official day as director of the LeClaire Community Library. Her years of dedicated service will be celebrated at a farewell open house from 1-4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27. The public is invited. She joined the LeClaire Community Library in 2018 as circulation manager, after working in libraries around [...]
	Augustana College, Rock Island, earns reaffirmation of accreditation Augustana College, Rock Island, has earned reaffirmation of its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, "affirming the college’s academic quality, student-centered mission and long-term commitment to continuous improvement," a news release says. Approved Jan. 28, the reaffirmation extends Augustana’s accreditation through 2035 and follows a multi-stage evaluation process that concluded in fall 2025. “Receiving reaffirmation [...]
	Granite City Valentine's Day Granite City is brewing up some fun for Valentine's Day. Weston Baril from Granite City Food & Brewery tells us how you can celebrate Valentine's Day at Granite City, with their Dinner for 2.
	As Des Moines loses another indie music venue, local artists wonder what's next Since 2020, Des Moines has lost several cornerstones of its live music scene, from small clubs to major festivals. The closures have narrowed the path for local artists to develop, even as new venues and entertainment giants reshape how live music operates in the metro.
	Using GLP-1s to maintain a normal weight? There are benefits and risks Drugs like Zepbound and Wegovy are intended for people who are overweight. Some patients are using them after bariatric surgery to keep pounds from creeping back. Others may just want to lose a few pounds.
	Muscatine nursing home administrator accused of stealing from patient with dementia Prosecutors allege that in December 2023, she stole two checks belonging to a female resident of the Aspire of Muscatine nursing home.
	Central Bank Illinois announces promotions Central Bank Illinois has announced a series of executive and officer-level promotions that reinforce its commitment to local leadership and operational excellence, according to a news release. "These advancements recognize the significant contributions of five dedicated professionals who have consistently demonstrated the bank's core values of community service and financial integrity," the release says. Leading [...]
	Former Davenport mayor, YMCA leader Frank Klipsch remembered for life of service "When I think about Frank (Klipsch), I always think about collaboration," Davenport Ald. Kyle Gripp said. "He wanted everybody to be involved in the process and decision-making."
	New long-range transportation plan for the Quad-Cities is open for public review There are five in-person open houses and one online meeting where residents can join Bi-State Regional Commission staff and give feedback.
	It's not just bad breath: Good dental health means a healthier pet (BPT) - Whether you have a dog or cat (or both!), you probably want them to stay healthy and happy for as long as possible. What you may not know is that oral health is key to their overall wellness.In honor of Pet Dental Health Month, this is the perfect time to learn why your pets' teeth and gums are so vital for keeping them healthy and happy, as well as increasing their longevity. The good news is, there are many simple things you can do to care for your beloved pets' oral health throughout their lifetime.The mouth-body connectionWhy is oral health so crucial to your pet's overall well-being? The truth is, 70% of cats and a whopping 80% of dogs will suffer from some form of dental health issues by the time they are 3 years old, with their risk of dental problems increasing as they age.These potentially painful dental health problems don't just stay in their mouth. When plaque and tartar build up on a dog or cat's teeth, they can cause gingivitis: inflammation, redness, swelling and even bleeding of the gums. Over time, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, where harmful bacteria invades the gums and can even enter their bloodstream, potentially damaging vital organs over time.Oral bacteria have been linked to serious conditions including heart disease, liver problems and kidney failure in dogs, as well as sepsis, kidney, liver and heart disease in cats. One study found that dogs with severe gum disease were much more likely to develop heart issues like endocarditis or congestive heart failure.It's not just bad breathOne early indication your pet may be experiencing oral health issues is bad breath, but there are many other signs. Dogs and cats can effectively mask their pain, and unfortunately can't tell you when something hurts them. Watch for signs like:Redness, swelling or bleeding of the gumsDroolingWeight lossTaking longer to eat or having difficulty eatingTilting head when eatingOther changes in behavior, like being less playful or active, are worth checking out with your pet's veterinarian.What you can doYou can take proactive steps to prevent oral health problems. Any one of these steps can help, but consistently following many of them will go even further toward ensuring your four-legged family member stays healthy for years to come. No matter your pet's age, it's never too early or too late to begin building healthy habits.Regular tooth brushing: Use toothpaste designed for dogs or cats (not humans), with a soft brush or finger brush. Try to brush at least a few times per week, if not daily. Introduce brushing along with positive rewards like treats. Even 30 seconds of brushing can help disrupt plaque before it hardens. Dental chews or treats: Chewing can be nature's toothbrush. Dental chew toys or treats can mechanically scrape plaque from your dog's or cat's teeth. However, some are high in calories or not very effective. Look for VOHC-accepted dental chews or veterinarian-recommended products with scientific backing, like these choices from Swedencare's ProDen PlaqueOff® line:New Crunchy Dental Bites for Dogs and Crunchy Dental Bites for Cats are natural, effective supplements that support your pet's oral health, featuring the 100% natural kelp ingredient A.N ProDen®. Clinical trials show significant reduction in plaque and tartar while improving bad breath, with noticeable improvement in 3-8 weeks when used as directed.Soft Chews — Dogs or Soft Chews — Cats are another option you can try, containing similar ingredients and providing similar results as Crunchy Dental Bites. They are perfect for older pets who may have difficulty eating harder chews, and can double as a reward or treat your furry friends will love.Dental Care Bones for Dogs are designed to satisfy your dog's natural chewing instincts while supporting dental health. Perfect for pet parents looking for an enjoyable chewing experience, they contain the same unique, clinically studied kelp ingredient A.N ProDen® found throughout the ProDen PlaqueOff® range.Oral health supplements: Adding an oral health powder to your pet's diet is one of the easiest, most seamless ways to keep their teeth cleaner. These work with the animal, helping to prevent plaque from sticking and hardening through natural chemical processes in your pet's body. ProDen PlaqueOff's® Powder for Dogs and Powder for Cats are odorless and tasteless, using the same natural, effective ingredients as other products in the ProDen PlaqueOff® line. The powder is also an economical choice: A 40 g bottle of Powder for cats lasts up to four months, and a 60 g bottle for dogs lasts roughly six months for a 22-pound dog. All ProDen PlaqueOff® formats can be used daily and for long-term use, complementing each other and offering flexible options that are easy to use."Dental issues are some of the most common problems we see in the clinic — and they're often painful, advanced and expensive before owners even notice," said veterinarian Marie Jury. "That's why preventive care is absolutely essential. A daily product like ProDen PlaqueOff®, which is accepted by the VOHC, can make a meaningful difference long before problems start."Annual checkups: Your veterinarian is your best ally in protecting your pet's oral health. They can also perform services like professional dental cleanings, which may be necessary to address oral health issues.Following these steps, you can help ensure your dog or cat maintains good oral health and overall well-being — so you can enjoy many more years of tail wagging, cuddles and play time together.
	Locomotives and Automobiles This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.If you are the kind of person who gives your car a name—like Alice or Jonathan—I’m afraid I have bad news. I’m almost…
	Jordan Stolz opens his bid for 4 golds by winning the 1,000 meters in speedskating Stolz received his gold for winning the men's 1,000 meters at the Milan Cortina Games in an Olympic-record time thanks to a blistering closing stretch. Now Stolz will hope to add to his collection of trophies.
	US Colleges received more than $5 billion in foreign gifts, contracts in 2025 New data from the U.S. Education Department show the extent of international gifts and contracts to colleges and universities.
	Swing voters in Arizona say they want to see ICE reformed Concerns about the tactics of federal immigration agents remain front of mind for some key voters who supported President Trump in 2024.
	Free speech lawsuits mount after Charlie Kirk assassination Months after the killing of Charlie Kirk, a growing number of lawsuits by people claim they were illegally punished, fired and even arrested for making negative comments about Kirk.

Thursday, February 12th, 2026