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

Monday, August 17th, 2026
	KWQC to air special coverage for 30th anniversary of Trudy Appleby’s disappearance We will be featuring Trudy’s family’s relentless search for answers, why the case is so complex and where we are now, 30 years later.
	Former federal prosecutor is suing DOJ for 'unlawful and retaliatory' firing A federal prosecutor who was fired earlier this year is suing the DOJ, alleging she was unlawfully dismissed for political reasons tied to her work prosecuting a case against anti-abortion activists.
	Trailblazing Rock Island judge dies at 86 years old Walter Braud died at the age of 86 last week. He worked in law for nearly five decades.
	United Township High School wins $5K in Friday Night 5G Lights contest United Township High School in East Moline has been named one of T-Mobile’s first $5,000 Friday winners in the Friday Night 5G Lights contest this year. . The competition is built around high school football and community pride. Schools can use the funds for programs that are most in-need, such as supporting academics, athletes or the broader school community. [...]
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Aug. 17, 2026 The Davenport Fairmount Library is closed for renovations, and city leaders in East Moline are considering plans for Empire Park.
	Look ahead: What's coming up in Davenport, Eldridge and Bettendorf city councils This week, Eldridge will take a third vote on establishing a fire department and Davenport will consider the first reading of a change to allow tattoo shops in the Village.
	Mark Schwiebert remembers late Judge Walter Braud Tributes continue to pour in after the death of longtime Rock Island attorney, judge, author and community leader Walter Braud on August 13 at the age of 86. Attorney and former Rock Island mayor Mark Schwiebert spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to share his memories of Judge Braud. “Walter and I have [...]
	Democrat Rep. Jimmy Gomez being investigated over sexual misconduct allegations The California Democrat has admitted to "personal mistakes" outside of his marriage, but also says his actions were consensual in nature did not violate House Ethics rules.
	No injuries reported after East Moline abandoned building partially collapses Sunday A partial collapse occurred at an abandoned building in East Moline early Sunday and was unwitnessed with no injuries reported, according to fire officials.
	Abandoned building partially collapses in East Moline An abandoned building in East Moline has experienced a partial collapse, the second one in the area since the beginning of summer. The building is located at the corner of 14th Avenue and 10th Street. It appears that part of the building’s roof collapsed, sending bricks and other debris to the ground. The city has [...]
	Washington Square Apartments purchased by Renew Moline Moline’s downtown Washington Square Apartments building is now owned by Renew Moline, an economic development nonprofit, with two units available for rent for low-income individuals.
	In 'Etna,' a canine narrator delivers a poignant anti-war message Paul Yoon's new novel follows a dog conscripted into an unnamed war in an unnamed country. From the very first page, Etna's voice is somber and poetic in its simplicity.
	Muscatine suspect drove through fence, hit garage before shooting, deputies say Mark Lee Jackson, 59, is accused of shooting at officers and hitting one in the elbow area during a chase on Friday.
	Free 12th-annual Bill Bell festival is Aug. 21-22 in Rock Island Top-notch musical performances, health education, Black authors, and youth activities are part of the 12th-annual Bill Bell Jazz and Heritage Festival, August 21 and 22 in Rock Island.
	Renew Moline acquires Washington Square Apartments New income-restricted housing is coming to Moline. Renew Moline’s Board of Directors of Renew Moline said it has acquired Washington Square Apartments, a 10-unit building at 316-17th Street in downtown Moline. The late-19th century building originally contained five, three-story townhome-style units. It was constructed under the direction of Charles H. Deere and designed by Merton [...]
	Learn about data centers at Rock Island meeting Data centers are making headlines across the country and communities are gathering together to discuss their impact. Prairie Rivers Network is hosting a presentation on data centers and how they affect communities on Tuesday, August 18th from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Center, 630 9th Street in Rock Island. Nina Struss, [...]
	Eldridge cafe to be featured on America’s Best Restaurants A local cafe is going to be featured on America’s Best Restaurants this month.
	Muscatine Police Chief Tony Kies provides an update on Friday's shooting The suspect, Mark Lee Jackson, 59, of Des Moines, is still at large and should be considered armed and dangerous.
	Quad-Cities area literacy and library programs receive over $320,000 Augustana University, Western Illinois University and Black Hawk College are among the recipients.
	Longtime Rock Island judge dies at age 86 Former Chief Judge Walter Braud died last week at 86 years old.
	Skincare benefits of niacinamide Skincare benefits of niacinamideNiacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a versatile antioxidant that’s taken the skincare world by storm. Celebrated for its ability to tackle lots of different skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation or a dull complexion, niacinamide is an ingredient for anyone looking to enhance their skincare routine. Here, Dove looks at the benefits of niacinamide.What does niacinamide do for skin?Niacinamide is a multitasking marvel that offers a range of benefits for your skin. It helps improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, brightens your complexion, and keeps your skin looking clear and radiant. With its ability to strengthen your skin barrier, niacinamide is perfect for maintaining healthy, glowing skin.Niacinamide underarm benefitsEvens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of dark spotsNiacinamide is known for its ability to regulate pigment production in the skin. Niacinamide works by inhibiting melanin transfer, helping to lighten these spots and restore your natural complexion. Frequent shaving, deodorant use, and sweat buildup can lead to darkened patches under the arms. Regular use can help reduce hyperpigmentation and fade dark spots, leading to a more even underarm tone over time — particularly beneficial if you struggle with discoloration from shaving or friction.Soothes irritation and redness Underarm skin can be easily irritated, especially after hair removal or from harsh deodorants. Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm the skin, reducing redness, itchiness, and post-shave discomfort.Strengthens the skin barrier Using niacinamide regularly can help strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This is essential for underarm skin, which often undergoes friction and contact with fabric or razors. A healthy barrier helps lock in hydration and protect against external irritants.Minimizes enlarged pores and sweat-related buildup Niacinamide can help refine the appearance of pores and control oil production. While it won’t stop sweating, it may help reduce clogged pores and keep the area looking smoother and cleaner, especially if you’re prone to buildup or ingrown hairs.Gentle enough for daily use Unlike some brightening ingredients that can be harsh or drying, niacinamide is typically well-tolerated — even on sensitive skin like the underarms, but be sure to consult a doctor if you have concerns. This makes it ideal for daily use without risk of over-exfoliation or irritation.Niacinamide benefits for skinRegulates oil productionNiacinamide helps balance sebum (oil) production, making it especially helpful for those with oily or combination skin. By preventing overproduction of oil, it can help reduce shine and minimize the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.Offers anti-inflammatory benefits and helps reduce redness and blotchinessIf your skin is prone to irritation, rosacea, or sensitivity, niacinamide can help calm visible redness and inflammation. Its soothing properties support a more even, balanced complexion over time. Its anti-inflammatory properties make niacinamide ideal for calming inflamed, irritated, or acne-prone skin. It can also help speed up the skin’s healing process after breakouts or sensitivity flare-ups.Improves skin elasticity and firmness Regular use of niacinamide can improve the skin’s elasticity by boosting collagen production and supporting the skin’s structural integrity. This helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and gives your skin a firmer, plumper look.Strengthens the skin barrier A healthy skin barrier is essential for maintaining hydration and protecting against environmental stressors. Niacinamide helps reinforce this barrier by increasing the production of ceramides — natural lipids that keep moisture in and irritants out.Minimizes the appearance of pores By regulating oil production and improving skin texture, niacinamide can help make enlarged pores look smaller and less noticeable, giving your skin a smoother, more refined appearance.Brightens dull skin and evens out tone Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer in the skin, which helps fade dark spots, acne scars, and sun damage. This leads to a brighter, more radiant complexion with consistent use.Is niacinamide good for sensitive skin?Niacinamide is gentle enough for sensitive skin, offering soothing benefits without causing irritation. Its ability to strengthen the skin barrier makes it a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin, ensuring your skin stays calm and comfortable.This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The US markets where fix-and-flip returns are strongest heading into fall The US markets where fix-and-flip returns are strongest heading into fallFor years, home-flipping shows and success stories have made real estate investing feel like a new gold rush. The best investment opportunities were now diamonds in the rough: homes that needed serious renovations, but also had serious profit potential.The thought of finding a property that’s rough around the edges, renovating it into something gorgeous, and selling it for a handsome profit is satisfying. But it’s also completely detached from today’s market.The reality for investors nowadays, especially as the end of summer nears, is much more complex. Between increasing interest rates, rising material costs, and cautious buyers, return on investment from flipping has become more of a risk than a guarantee. As PropertyReach explains below, choosing the right markets and using the right data will be key to securing low acquisition costs and high ROI.The Current State of the Flipping MarketAfter two years of squeezed margins, the market is finally showing signs of stabilization. Recent market data shows that the typical U.S. home flip generated a 25.4% gross return in early 2026—an uptick after almost a decade of decline.Nationally, the median flip involves a $260,000 purchase price with a $326,000 resale price. That’s an average of $66,000 gross profit before accounting for holding, carrying, and transaction expenses.Of course, national averages only tell half of the story. The gap between top-performing and struggling regional markets is huge. Texan metros like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, which flourished during the pandemic, now see gross margins compress into single digits (from 2%-7%) because of surging inventory and higher acquisition costs. Meanwhile, affordable mid-tier metros across the Midwest and Northeast are yielding returns up to 80%.What Makes For an Ideal Fix-and-Flip Market?With market conditions constantly changing, it’s more important to know which features actually make an area ideal for fix-and-flip projects than to memorize a list of specific regions. Factors like those below are what truly make a market great for this type of investment:Affordable Entry PricesLow acquisition costs minimize total capital risk. If you purchase a property at a lower price as a flipper, you have more of a safety buffer to absorb unexpected contractor expenses or extended hold times without wiping out net profits.Severe Inventory ConstraintsCities where listing inventory remains 30%-70% below pre-pandemic levels give sellers significant pricing power. It ensures that renovated, move-in-ready homes will sell quickly.Aging Housing StockUrban areas with a high concentration of homes built before the 1980s offer a continuous pipeline of distressed, outdated properties ready for cosmetic modernization.Strong “Plan B” Rental YieldsIf interest rate volatility causes retail home buyers to pause late in the fall, a top-tier market allows the investor to pivot into a high-cash-flowing long-term rental.Top 6 U.S. Markets Delivering Strong Fix-and-Flip ROIBased on a combination of 2026 data from the National Association of Realtors and housing market analysis from Realtor.com, here is a list of some of the best markets for investors interested in fix-and-flip properties.1. PittsburghAverage Gross ROI: 85.9%Median Purchase Price: $234,600With the highest ROI among major U.S. metros, Pittsburgh is in high demand due to low-mortgage “lock-in” pressure and affordable entry pricing. The wide spread between distressed purchase prices and renovated resale values allows flippers to capture double-digit margins more easily.2. Buffalo, New YorkAverage Gross ROI: 84%Median Purchase Price: $262,600Upstate New York remains one of the most competitive, inventory-starved regions in the country. Updated homes in Buffalo regularly command multiple offers. An aging housing stock allows flippers to buy structurally sound properties at deep discounts, renovate them, and exit quickly with a guaranteed profit.3. Hartford, ConnecticutAverage Gross ROI: 66%-73%Median Purchase Price: $393,700Hartford is plagued by extreme inventory constraints, with active listings remaining over 40% below pre-pandemic levels. High-income buyers relocating from nearby major cities have created fierce competition for single-family homes, giving flippers a chance to get strong margins and fast turnarounds.4. ClevelandAverage Gross ROI: 72%Median Purchase Price: $226,900Cleveland boasts some of the lowest acquisition costs of any major metro area, minimizing the capital required to jump into a deal. Beyond its strong gross flipping margins, Cleveland offers great rent-to-price yields, giving investors an ideal plan B in holding the home as a rental if the market slows in the late fall.5. Scranton, PennsylvaniaAverage Gross ROI: 75%Median Purchase Price: Roughly $222,000Driven by low entry prices and active listings nearly below pre-pandemic baselines, Scranton is one of the country’s best risk-adjusted value markets. An older housing stock provides a continuous pipeline of distressed properties that yield high absolute returns after modernization.6. MilwaukeeAverage Gross ROI: 55%-62%Median Purchase Price: $417,900Milwaukee is one of the Midwest’s most steady, low-basis markets for flippers. In dense neighborhoods with aging pre-war housing stock, investors can pick up distressed single-family or two-family duplexes at heavy discounts. There’s always high demand for modernized, affordable entry-level homes, so generating strong margins is easily achievable.Pro Tips on Maximizing Your ROI Heading into Fall1. Secure Off-Market DealsBuying from the open market usually means competing against retail buyers who drive up acquisition costs. Experienced flippers target pre-foreclosures, probate estates, and tax-delinquent owners directly before a home hits the market.2. Keep Renovations FunctionalOver-renovating a home is the fastest way to erode your profit margins. Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that functional updates (i.e., modernizing kitchens, updating bathrooms, enhancing curb appeal, and fresh interior paint) yield far higher returns. Luxury additions like pools or custom stonework can wait.3. Budget for Extended Fall/Winter Holding CostsFrom acquisition to closing, the average national flip takes about 165 days. If you have a project starting in late summer or early fall, there’s a high probability it will be on hold into the winter. Be sure to factor extra utility bills, winterization maintenance, and additional hard-money interest payments into your capital.4. Plan B: Your Exit StrategyConsider underwriting every transaction under two separate conditions: a fix-and-flip resale and a long-term rental hold. Ensuring your deal meets debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) standards guarantees you can refinance into a cash-flowing rental if local buyer activity cools down for the season.The Bottom LineWhile real estate flipping isn’t as effortless as TV shows make it look, it remains a highly profitable strategy for investors who follow the data. By shifting toward affordable value markets and using data-driven sourcing techniques, investors can continue securing standout returns heading into the new season.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	A midyear financial reset: 8 ways to get your money back on track A midyear financial reset: 8 ways to get your money back on trackHalfway through the year is a natural checkpoint for reviewing your budget, savings and financial goals. Comparing your original plan with year-to-date spending can help identify categories that have shifted and support a more realistic plan for the months ahead.That check-in matters because many households still have limited room for unexpected costs. The Federal Reserve reported in May 2026 that 63% of adults could cover a hypothetical $400 emergency expense using cash or its equivalent. Below, CreditFresh shares eight steps for a midyear review of your household finances.1. Compare Your Budget With Your Actual SpendingA midyear financial reset starts with understanding how your spending compares with the budget you set at the beginning of the year. Review your income and expenses from the past six months and look at each spending category individually. Are you spending more or less than expected on groceries, transportation, utilities, subscriptions, dining out or other regular costs?Where spending has increased, consider what caused the change. Some increases may reflect higher prices, unexpected expenses or changes in your household needs. Others may highlight areas where spending has gradually moved beyond what you originally planned.Once you understand the differences, update your budget for the rest of the year. Look for expenses that can be reduced, paused or removed, and make sure the amounts you assign to essential costs reflect what you are actually spending today.Budgeting tools and apps can help you organize transactions and identify patterns, but even a simple review of your bank and credit statements can give you a clearer picture of where your money is going.2. Emergency Fund: Your Financial Safety NetLife is unpredictable, and unexpected expenses can pop up at any time. Establishing an emergency fund is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against financial emergencies. Aim to save around three to six months' worth of living expenses in a separate, easily accessible account. This fund can help cover expenses such as medical emergencies, car repairs or home repairs.Because of the financial security it provides, an emergency fund can give you some peace of mind and lower your stress if you run into a sticky situation. Make regular contributions to it and try to make it a nonnegotiable expense in your budget.If your regular expenses have changed since the start of the year, review whether your current savings target still reflects the cost of an emergency today.3. Review How You Are Using CreditCredit can be a useful financial tool. A loan or line of credit may help cover an unexpected expense, manage a temporary gap between income and bills or spread the cost of an important purchase over time.Review any balances you are carrying, the payments you are making and the overall cost of borrowing. Consider whether your current repayment plan still fits within your budget and whether there are opportunities to pay down balances more quickly without putting pressure on essential expenses.On top of this, be careful about taking on new debt and only borrow what you can comfortably repay. Develop a repayment strategy and consistently put money toward whatever debt you're carrying.Making payments on time and keeping track of your balances can also help you maintain a stronger credit history over time.4. Set Realistic Financial GoalsEstablishing clear and achievable financial goals can give direction and motivation for your financial journey. Whether your focus is on short-term goals like saving for a vacation or long-term goals like buying a home, define your objectives and create a plan to reach them.Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps to make it easier to track your progress. Regularly revisit and reassess your financial goals, adjusting them as needed based on changes in your life or financial situation. Celebrate your achievements along the way, no matter how small, to stay motivated.5. Live Below Your MeansSpending less than you earn is an important part of keeping your finances on track and saving and investing for the future. Take a close look at your lifestyle and spending habits to find areas where you can cut unnecessary expenses.You'll also want to look out for lifestyle inflation that can come with salary increases. Instead of increasing your spending when your income rises, put this money toward savings, investments, or debt repayment.6. Establish Multiple Income StreamsDiversifying your sources of income can help give you some extra financial security and speed your progress toward reaching your financial goals. While your main job is going to be your biggest income source, there might be some room to find other opportunities to make some extra money. This could include side hustles, freelance work, investments, or passive income sources.Multiple income streams can act as a buffer during economic downturns and make you more financially resilient overall.7. Build a Strong Credit HistoryA solid credit history is so important to reach all sorts of financial goals, like buying a home or qualifying for personal loans. Monitor your credit report regularly, making sure to deal with any issues right away. Pay bills on time, maintain a healthy credit utilization ratio and avoid opening unnecessary lines of credit. A strong credit history not only opens up financial opportunities but also helps guide you toward being a responsible borrower.8. Don't Stop LearningThe financial landscape is constantly evolving, with new investment opportunities, tax laws, and economic trends happening regularly. Stay informed about changes in the financial world by reading reputable financial publications, going to workshops and getting advice from financial professionals.Continuous financial education helps you to make informed decisions, adapt to economic shifts and maximize your financial potential. Take advantage of online resources, podcasts and community events to expand your knowledge and stay ahead in the ever-changing financial environment.A midyear reset is most useful when it leads to one or two realistic changes, such as updating a savings target, revising a budget category or checking a credit report.Disclaimer: Information in this article, including references to third parties, is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute endorsement or individualized financial or legal advice.This story was produced by CreditFresh and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	7 common bills you can negotiate right now and how much you could save in 2026 7 common bills you can negotiate right now and how much you could save in 2026You’re spending wisely, maybe with the help of a budgeting app, and you want to stretch your dollars even farther.Your regular expenses may be more flexible than you might have realized. Not all bills are set in stone. Negotiating could save you money now and in the future if you’re willing to do a little legwork.While not every negotiation attempt will succeed, you might be surprised at how often companies are willing to work with you to keep your business. With some research and a polite approach, you could trim your expenses without sacrificing services.Achieve explores ways to negotiate with creditors and save money on common bills.Key takeaways:You could negotiate many common bills, including gym memberships and internet services.Successfully negotiating with creditors and other companies could save you hundreds or more each year.Strategies include presenting competitors’ offers, or offering to sign a longer contract. 1. Credit card feesIf you make a late payment but you normally pay on time, ask your credit card company to waive the late fee. If they agree, consider it a one-time gift. They aren’t likely to offer it again.2. Insurance coverageIs your auto or homeowners insurance policy renewal date coming up? Call your insurance provider to ask for a lower rate.One of the most effective ways to present your case and justify a rate decrease is to show up to the conversation prepared with quotes from other insurers. It’s worth taking the time to shop around to find out what competitors charge for the same coverage. If your insurance company won’t budge, your research can still be put to good use. Switch to the insurance company that offers the better rate.3. Gym membershipsGyms usually run promotions or offer perks in a bid to win over new customers. You may find promotions throughout the year, but especially in January. Keep an eye on your gym’s social media pages and website. If you find an advertised special, ask if you can nab it. Or ask for a discount if you know other gyms in the area are offering more competitive pricing.4. TV and internetMany internet and TV providers offer lower pricing for the first few months to get you to switch and commit to a contract with them. But you probably know the drill by now: Your bill will go up after the introductory period.If you’ve signed a contract, you might be stuck at the regular rate for a while. But set a calendar reminder for a week or two before your contract is set to renew. At that time, call up your provider to ask for a lower new-customer rate. Be nice but persistent. The representative may need to escalate your call to people who have more authority to offer you a better deal. They know you could switch to a new provider when your contract ends, so they may be flexible on pricing to keep you.5. Cell phone billsBefore you call, take a careful look at what features you use, such as how much data you typically use in a month. Think about whether you’re willing to commit to a longer contract. If you’re using much less than you’re paying for, ask to downgrade to a plan with a lower price. Or ask how you could get a lower price for the same plan. If you’ve been a longtime customer, remind them of that.Many cell phone service providers offer low prices and nationwide coverage. If you’re not happy with the price you’re paying, it’s easy to switch your number over to another provider as long as you’re not bound by a contract.6. Health careMedical bills have the potential to be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you need to pay the amount on your initial bill. The healthcare industry is known for often being willing to forgive medical debt (a portion of it, anyway).Your provider may agree to let you make affordable payments or even lower the total amount you owe.7. RentIt doesn’t hurt to ask for lower rent, or to keep your rent at the same level and not raise it. Keep your eye on prices for similar properties in your area, especially if your lease is ending soon and you’ll have the choice to renew or move. If the place you’re interested in has been vacant for a while, your position may be stronger if you offer to sign a longer lease or move in right away.Negotiating bills doesn’t need to take a lot of time and effort. But you’ll never get a “yes” if you don’t ask. As long as you ask politely and do your homework (like researching options), you could increase your chances of success.This story was produced by Achieve and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Bring Hotel Luxury Home with Better Bedding (NewsUSA) - A great night's sleep doesn't always require a luxury hotel reservation. Increasingly, homeowners are discovering that one of the simplest ways to create a more comfortable sleep environment is by upgrading the quality of their bedding.Premium cotton sheets have long been a hallmark of upscale hotels, offering a soft, breathable feel that helps promote restful sleep. Today, that same experience is becoming more accessible through thoughtfully crafted bedding designed for everyday use.One example is the Bedsure PureWoven™ Giza Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set, created for people who want to enjoy the comfort and elegance associated with luxury hospitality. Made from 100% authentic hand-picked Giza long-staple Egyptian cotton, the sheets are verified through BV-certified batch No. 5625021-0005 and official CEA accreditation (Certificate No. 1657), giving shoppers added confidence in the authenticity of the material.The smooth sateen weave delivers a silky feel while remaining durable enough for everyday living. Unlike many fabrics that wear quickly, the stronger long-staple cotton fibers help resist pilling, maintain their vibrant appearance through repeated washing, and provide lasting comfort over time. The collection was also recognized with the iLUXURY AWARDS 2026, highlighting its combination of quality craftsmanship and long-term value.Comfort goes beyond softness. The breathable sateen construction naturally promotes airflow, helps wick away moisture, and regulates temperature throughout the night. Whether you're a warm sleeper or simply looking for year-round comfort, the fabric is designed to stay comfortable across changing seasons without feeling overly warm or too cool.For households with pets, durability can be just as important as comfort. The sheet set's snag-resistant weave offers additional resilience against everyday wear, including pet claws, making it suitable for primary bedrooms, guest rooms, or any sleep sanctuary throughout the home.The bedding is also made with wellness in mind. It is OEKO-TEX® certified (BJ025 231038) and produced without added fabric softeners. Instead, a physical air-tumbling process creates a crisp yet soft feel that becomes even softer with continued use. These qualities also make the set a thoughtful gift for weddings, housewarmings, or other special occasions.Practical design features further enhance everyday convenience. The fitted sheet includes an 18-inch deep pocket that fits mattresses up to 16 inches thick, along with 360-degree elastic and directional labels that help make bed-making quicker while keeping the sheets securely in place.Creating a luxurious bedroom doesn't necessarily require a complete makeover. Sometimes, upgrading to high-quality bedding can make a noticeable difference in comfort, helping transform an ordinary bedroom into a relaxing retreat inspired by the world's finest hotels.The Bedsure PureWoven™ Giza Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set is currently available on Amazon. During the August 10–23 promotion, shoppers can save up to 44%, making it an ideal time to experience luxury hotel-inspired bedding at home.Learn more and shop the collection here.
	State agrees to retest for lead at homes near Exide where cleanups failed State agrees to retest for lead at homes near Exide where cleanups failedSince 1986, Karen Noga has lived within 2 miles of the Exide battery smelter, which belched lead and arsenic unabated into surrounding neighborhoods until it shuttered in 2015.First, Noga lived in Huntington Park, about 1.5 miles away from the plant, she told The Economic Hardship Reporting Project and LA Public Press for this article. Then, in 2002, when the Los Angeles Unified School District claimed her house through eminent domain, Noga bought a home in Boyle Heights, where she lives today.The Boyle Heights property is within a 1.7-mile radius of Exide, which the state Department of Toxic Substances Control identified as the zone most impacted by lead contamination spewed by the battery recycler.Noga was 50 years old when, in 2009, she was diagnosed with Stage 2 uterine cancer.She said she didn’t consider the cancer might have been caused by lead exposure until around 2013, when state officials began sampling soil in residential neighborhoods and discussing cleanup efforts in advance of Exide’s closure. That effort would become the largest environmental cleanup of residential properties in California history. The job has been imperfect, and it’s far from finished.“We live in an area where people are dying of cancer,” Noga said.Lead is a toxic chemical that even at low levels can damage internal organs and the reproductive system. But there are no studies on the rates of cancer near the Exide plant, and according to Dr. Howard Hu, a professor of preventive medicine at USC who spoke with The Economic Hardship Reporting Project and LA Public Press, the connection between lead exposure and uterine cancer has also not been studied very much.But since at least 2023, state officials have known that hundreds of properties like Noga’s still contained high levels of lead — even after they had been “cleaned.”For the first time, the state is agreeing to retest hundreds of those properties, including, possibly, Noga’s.It’s a small victory for Noga and other residents, largely of working-class Latino neighborhoods, who have implored the state to retest the soil, conduct effective remediations, and consider alternative methods to sequester the lead.When the state first tested soil at Noga’s property in 2016, one of 11 samples came back as high as 491 parts per million (ppm). The state’s “level of concern” for lead in soil around Exide is 80 ppm. With such high levels of lead, Noga’s property made the state’s cleanup priority list.The state’s 80 ppm level is lower than the federal screening threshold of 200 ppm and is designed to protect pregnant people, fetuses, and children, who are the most vulnerable to lead poisoning.‘I thought the garden was clean’In 2021, Irvine-based National Engineering and Consulting, Inc., a private contractor hired by the state, completed remediation of Amalia Ordorica’s property in Boyle Heights, where earlier testing had found lead concentrations in the soil as high as 260 ppm.NEC, after declaring its work finished in 2021, found lead toxicity measurements of 166 ppm in soil 9 inches below the ground’s surface, where Ordorica grows food and her child plays. In its letter of completion to the state, the contractor said its crews did not dig deeper to maintain the integrity of a fence.But Ordorica said she was never informed about the letter or the results of the tests after remediation was finished. Contacted on Feb. 9 by LA Public Press, she said the findings were upsetting.Ordorica said her 1-year-old plays with soil and volcanic rocks from the garden. She said she cooks with rosemary and basil that grow on the plot, but plans to stop using them. Now she plans to take her son to have a blood lead test.“I thought the garden was clean, because they did the cleanup. I thought everything was clean. This is disappointing,” said Ordorica.NEC did not return requests for comment.State officials acknowledge that cleanups falteredExposure to even low levels of lead carries health risks for everyone, especially children. And because the heavy metal can’t break down or biodegrade in the environment, removal is critical.Lead can enter the body when it’s inhaled, consumed, or more rarely, touched. Once inside the body, it moves from the lungs or digestive tract into the bloodstream, where it passes to soft tissues, including the brain, kidneys, liver, and muscles. It also integrates into bones and teeth, where with repeated exposure, it can build up over a lifetime.The health consequences of lead exposure are wide-ranging and widely proven, from behavioral problems to kidney damage to high blood pressure to miscarriage to weakness in fingers, wrists, or ankles.The link between lead and cancer is less widely agreed upon. In California, lead and lead compounds are listed on Proposition 65 because the state says, definitely, that they can cause cancer. The EPA, however, has identified lead as a “possible” carcinogen.Hu, the professor of preventive medicine, said it’s “plausible” that lead can cause uterine cancer.“What is known is that lead can serve as a tumor enhancer, and it can induce DNA damage. But there is no direct evidence of lead causing uterus cancer, as far as I know,” he said. “There is more evidence that lead has an association with urinary tract cancers.”Hu said that if any people did get cancer from lead exposure generated by Exide, it was likely through the inhalation of fumes while the plant operated from 1922 through 2015.In 2013 and 2014, California ordered Exide to upgrade the plant’s air pollution system to control arsenic and lead emissions, and the South Coast Air Quality Management District placed 52 violation notices on the site from August 2012 through May 2015.In 2019, Noga’s property was remediated and immediately retested by NEC. But even after removing 48 tons of contaminated soil from her property and replacing it with clean soil, the contractor’s letter of completion certified lead levels around her home still tested in the range of 104 and 240 ppm.In 2023, the Los Angeles Times reported that at least 559 state-led cleanups conducted since 2017 around Exide were unsuccessful at totally removing contaminated soil. Those cleanups faltered largely due to underground obstacles, like tree roots and utility lines, that limited digging.In a typical Exide cleanup, contractors excavate soil at depths of 6 inches at a time, until reaching depths of 18 inches; they then backfill the excavated areas with clean soil.Noga said she herself asked the site supervisor overseeing the remediation at her property to avoid digging up the soil in her rose bed, which she feared would have killed her plants.These limitations have been acknowledged by state officials: “We can’t dig under a house, we can’t dig under a sidewalk. We cannot dig under trees that are older than, believe it or not, the people who bought these homes,” Mehdi Bettahar, a program manager with the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, said at a public hearing in February.In previous public meetings, Steven Hariri, a supervising engineer with the Department of Toxic Substances Control, told residents that many property cleanups have not met the state’s goals.In the last year, Hariri said the department has already re-sampled 100 lots that it previously treated. Hariri said the state plans to retest lead on up to 1,375 more properties that have already been cleaned. He did not provide a timeline to retest those properties.The state also has not allocated any funding to re-clean properties where remediation failed.“As far as the subsequent action to be taken, we have to analyze what data shows, and then we can make that determination at that time,” Hariri told residents at the Feb. 12 meeting.‘Is that dust blowing over now contaminated?’Residents have long criticized the state’s cleanup plan for its hodgepodge strategy: prioritizing lots above 400 ppm while leaving less polluted lots untreated for years, which can result in dust and runoff from dirty parcels recontaminating cleaned ones.These concerns prompted a 2023 study conducted by two experts on urban environmental health, in coordination with East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice, an organization that works to revitalize communities in Southeast Los Angeles. The study found that 73 of 93 remediated properties had soil lead levels above 80 ppm.The investigation, titled Get the Lead Out!, was led by Jill Johnston, professor of population and public health and spatial sciences at USC; Bhavna Shamasunder, professor of urban and environmental policy at Occidental College; and mark! Lopez, a special projects coordinator with East Yard.Lopez said physical obstacles in the soil, like cisterns, are perceived by residents as “excuses” for the state’s shoddy cleanup efforts. He wants the state to consider second cleanups and alternative methods.“We were interested in doing this study, initially because we were worried about the approach the state was taking, as far as the patchwork approach,” said Lopez. “They would clean one house and they’d come back three years later and clean the neighbor’s house. The concern is, is that dust blowing over now contaminated?”Cleanup costs top $770 million in taxpayer fundsThe cost to clean up lead-contaminated soil at residential properties around Exide has, as of Feb. 27, cost California taxpayers $772 million.To date, the state has remediated 6,041 lots in Boyle Heights, East Los Angeles, Commerce, Vernon, Maywood, Huntington Park, and Bell, and dismembered most of the Vernon plant.The state estimates it will clean 6,505 parcels total with the money it has already budgeted.In January, Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed another $70 million for Exide residential cleanups in the state’s 2026-27 budget; that would cover the remediation of about 1,000 more lots, with about 2,600 left to clean.Residents look for other ways to clean their soilA study conducted from 2022 through 2023 by local arts initiative Prospering Backyards on 13 parcels around Exide concluded that using special zeolites, compost, and mulch in that order, each separated with cardboard, proved effective in sequestering lead in soil. Zeolites are a type of mineral that can act like a sponge in soil, soaking up lead.“A goal of the project was to record the best ways to absorb lead without removing soil,” said Elena Esparza, a Boyle Heights resident who participated in the study. They also wanted to see how far away toxins fly in the air, Esparza added.Aaron Celestian, a professor of earth sciences at USC and the study’s lead scientist, said the type of zeolite used in the study, known as sodium clinoptilolite, matters a lot. He dispelled fears that the mineral would release toxins.Despite the findings, using zeolites to remove lead from dirty soil is not a viable option for the state, according to Elizabeth Leslie-Gassaway, a public information officer with the Department of Toxic Substances Control.“Recently, we reviewed the use of zeolites and spoke with various vendors about it. We found that using zeolites would not reduce the amount of lead in the soil, it would just transfer the lead onto the zeolite, leaving it in place,” said Leslie-Gassaway. “So the overall lead levels would stay the same.”Claudia Vazquez, another Boyle Heights resident, said remediation crews decided not to excavate below the canopy of her pomegranate tree to save its roots in 2019. Soil was remediated elsewhere in her property.Vazquez said her family harvested and enjoyed pomegranates from the tree last year.“I think a follow-up would be necessary to ensure the quality of the cleanup from the vendor,” said Vazquez.The Los Angeles County Public Health Department has distributed fliers around Exide telling residents it is safe to eat fruits “after being properly washed” from trees in the lead cleanup area. But it warned residents to avoid consuming root crops or plants grown on lead-contaminated soil.The public health department has advised residents to use raised beds with clean soil to grow any herbs or food, and state officials have underscored that remediated soil is safe so long as the fresh soil stays in place and buried lead remains unearthed.Ordorica said she wants the state to retest her garden, conduct an efficient cleanup, and use zeolites, compost, and mulch.As for Noga, she said her cancer is in remission. She underwent surgery in 2009 to remove the tumor. During treatment, she filed for work disability and collected a portion of her $1,200 weekly pay for several weeks. The surgery and other medical costs were covered by her insurance.To this day, she undergoes yearly screenings to keep the disease in check.She agrees with Ordorica about the approach the state should be taking.“There has to be an alternative method that does not involve tearing up the entire lawn, and does not cost hundreds of millions of dollars,” Noga said. “There should be a more efficient way to treat the underground.”Co-published by The Economic Hardship Reporting Project and LA Public Press.This story was produced by The Economic Hardship Reporting Project and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	National Make-a-Will Month: Why business owners need one and how to get started National Make-a-Will Month: Why business owners need one and how to get startedWhile long-term planning is important year-round, August is National Make a Will Month, a vital reminder for small business owners to reflect on the future of their company and loved ones. If the unexpected happens to a business owner and there is no plan in place, the result can be chaotic. Families may disagree, partners may lose direction, and business can stall overnight.For business owners, plans are essential because personal and professional assets can be deeply intertwined. As Rocket Lawyer explains below, a solid succession plan is the best way to safeguard both.Plan for the Unexpected, Protect Your FutureA clear estate plan ensures that outdated documents or state laws don't dictate what happens to your hard-earned business. Without up-to-date, legally binding documents in place, your business could end up in the hands of unprepared, inactive partners or outside parties.What would happen to your business if you were suddenly incapacitated by a health issue? Without a power of attorney, your business could stall, and payroll could go unpaid. Having someone you trust ready to step in ensures your business keeps running smoothly.What if you or a business partner decides to retire? Without a buy-sell agreement, you could suddenly find yourself in business with your partner’s heirs or someone you never intended to work with. This agreement sets the rules up front and ensures you have a safety net.What about your legacy? Without a will or a living trust, the ownership of your business could be tied up in court, creating unnecessary stress for your family. A clear plan ensures your business goes to the person you choose, helping to protect your loved ones' future.For business owners, having the right legal documents can be a lifesaver when the unexpected happens. Although succession planning can sound like a tedious process, taking preliminary steps will relieve difficult transitions and keep your partners and employees on the same page.Take Control of Your Legacy, Starting TodayYou might be asking, well, why now? The short answer is that life is unpredictable. Starting your plan now gives you a strong foundation that you can easily update as your business grows or as your family’s needs change.First, take a fresh look at your company's value. Conducting a thorough financial assessment of debts, assets, equipment, real property, and profitability gives you a clear baseline for valuation.Next, consider your personal goals alongside your business goals. Deciding who you trust to step into key leadership positions and training them early can help to ensure a smooth transition. Pairing these steps with legally binding contracts like buy-sell agreements can protect your existing team and reassure investors and customers that the business will continue to thrive.At the end of the day, proactive estate and succession planning is about peace of mind. For business owners, ensuring your company remains a reliable asset for your family and partners can be the ultimate reassurance.Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Estate and Succession PlanNational Make a Will Month is a great opportunity to review whether your current legal documents reflect how your business operates today, and how you’d like it to continue in the future.Do you have a buy-sell agreement in place? Does it clearly spell out valuation methods, transfer terms, and funding mechanisms like life insurance?Who has the authority to make decisions if you are incapacitated? Have you appointed a power of attorney to prevent a court from stepping in to manage your business affairs?Does your plan reflect your current operations? Have recent business growth or debt shifts created gaps in your original agreements?Should you review your policies with professional advisors? Have you consulted an attorney or financial advisor to confirm your documents align with current legal and tax requirements?What to Do NextYou don’t need to wait for an unexpected emergency or medical determination to secure your business and family. Consider taking these next steps:Conduct a financial assessment and business valuation to establish a fair picture of your company's assets and debts.Draft or update essential legal documents, including your power of attorney, buy-sell agreements, and will or living trusts.Evaluate key person life insurance options to ensure surviving partners or family members have immediate liquidity if leadership changes hands.Identify and train future leaders to ensure a smooth transition of executive responsibilities.Consult with trusted advisors. Consider speaking with an attorney to ensure your succession and estate plans are legally sound and to protect your company’s future.This story was produced by Rocket Lawyer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Dry texting: The meaning behind teens’ short texts Dry texting: The meaning behind teens’ short textsIt can start like this. A parent spends five chaotic minutes crafting the perfect text to their tween. It’s short. Thoughtful. Not too cringey.The reply?“kk”There’s a term for this kind of ultra-short response: dry texting. And while these responses can feel like a brush-off, researchers say they’re usually something else entirely, Verizon reports.It’s often simply a way to say, “I’m here, but I can’t talk right now.” For parents, understanding the slang and shorthand can help, but what’s at stake isn’t manners or grammar. Early adolescence is when kids are learning how to handle relationships, conflict and complicated emotions. Short texts can also offer clues about how they’re managing all of it.To better understand what dry texting means for teens, this article draws on insights from Mary Chayko, Ph.D., sociologist and Distinguished Teaching Professor at Rutgers University’s School of Communication and Information, and other researchers who study how technology is changing the way people talk and text.Why teens use dry textingFrom a sociological perspective, dry texting is often about managing limits. Short replies can function as:A signal of limited emotional bandwidthA boundary that says, “I’m here, but I can’t get into this right now”A stylistic choice: It’s just how their friend group talksChayko’s research on digital communication shows that dry texting emerged because constant connection made quick responses necessary.Kaylin Peete, Program Specialist at the Family Online Safety Institute, agrees. And she says that dry texting has taken off as the push toward efficient communication has intensified in recent years.“That cultural shift came with generative AI,” she explains. “Kids are getting used to technology making things faster: instant answers, instant help. That expectation shows up in texting, too.” Because adults tend to read tone and intent differently, Peete says, these digital responses are often misunderstood.When short messages become a concernThis is where Sherry Turkle, Ph.D., Founding Director of the MIT Initiative on Technology and Self draws an important distinction.“The problem is not dry texts,” Turkle says. “The problem is substituting texting for talking. Don’t allow texting to be part of a flight from conversation in your family.”Naomi Baron, Ph.D., a linguist at American University, who studies how digital technology shapes communication, agrees.“We are losing the ability to read people,” Baron says. “Knowing how to say something that’s appropriate—or if you say something inappropriate, knowing how to recover—is something you really learn in person.”What researchers say about social skillsResearch scientist Chelsea Olson, Ph.D., who studies social media and adolescent health at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, says that while texting removes facial cues and tone, it doesn’t mean teens are losing the ability to read those non-verbal signals. Most still experience them daily, at school, at work and in games.“Texting is a less-rich form of communication,” Olson says, “but it doesn’t replace all the other ways teens are interacting.”So when does dry texting become something parents should be concerned about?“Each child is different,” Olson says. “If short texts are just how they communicate, that’s not a problem. But if a teen suddenly withdraws, online and offline, that’s when it’s worth paying attention.”Researchers say short text replies aren't necessarily cause for concern when:Short replies happen during busy parts of the day.Your child is warm and connected in other moments.This is how your child texts everyone.At the same time, experts say it may be worth paying closer attention if children are:Dry texting only during conflict, with no attempt to talk or repair laterAvoiding conversations both online and offlineOther changes in their mood, sleep, school or friendshipsWhat experts recommendBaron suggests starting with a simple but often overlooked question for your teens: How do you like to communicate?“How soon would you ideally respond? How long would your response be? What feels respectful to you?”Parents can model that clarity, too. For example:Use text for logistics, not big emotions.Save harder conversations for face-to-face moments.Say, “We can talk about this later,” and follow through.From dry text to haikuFor many teens, a one-word text isn’t an ending.The short structure lends itself to a haiku format, Turkle says. “Yes. No. Busy. Love. Safe landed.”It’s not always a dismissal, and it’s not always a problem to solve in the moment. Sometimes the most supportive response leaves room to talk later.Quick reply receivedI’ll save the big stuff for laterLove you, carry onThis article was produced by Verizon’s Parenting in a Digital World and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Most Gen Zers want to live in cities, but that may require giving up homeownership Most Gen Zers want to live in cities, but that may require giving up homeownershipIf you asked a room full of 20-somethings where they'd love to plant roots, a lot of them would point straight to a city. The version of young adulthood many Gen Zers are picturing right now includes walkable streets, coffee shops around the corner, friends a short train ride away, and a commute measured in minutes instead of hours.The catch is that in today's housing market, buying a home in the neighborhoods they want isn't always realistic.That tension shows up in Apartments.com data from its City Comeback Index survey and Rent Forever survey, both conducted in 2025. Over the past two years, Apartments.com research has found that Gen Z renters are willing to stay flexible with their living situation to maintain the lifestyle they want and keep their commute short.For a growing number of young adults, that flexibility means choosing to rent in a city they love rather than buy a house somewhere they don't — at least for the foreseeable future. And increasingly, Gen Z is redefining renting as less of a temporary stop on the way to homeownership and more of a long-term housing choice.Key TakeawaysEighty percent of Gen Zers (ages 18-29) who expect to buy a home in the next three years would live in a walkable, transit-connected city neighborhood if it would cost the same or less than a suburban home.Fifty-eight percent of Gen Z prospective homeowners say their preferred neighborhood is in or on the edge of a city, more than any other generation. Just 44% of millennials (ages 30-45) and 43% of Gen Xers (ages 45-61) say the same.In 2025, 27% of people ages 18-29 said they chose to rent because they don't want to be house-poor, a higher share than the general population (20%).Forty-two percent of Gen Z prospective homeowners say their interest in city living has grown over the last two years, far more than any other generation.Twenty-eight percent of Gen Z prospective homeowners buying a home is about equally affordable in urban and suburban areas, compared to 23% of millennials and 23% of Gen Xers.Both Gen Z Renters and Homeowners Dream of City LivingCity living has real pull for Gen Z renters, more so than for any older generation. Among young adults who expect to buy a home in the next three years, 58% say their ideal neighborhood is a city — either downtown (22%) or a bit farther out toward the city's edge (36%). Compare that to older prospective buyers, where 44% of millennials and 43% of Gen Xers say the same, and a clear generational preference starts to take shape. Apartments.com The reasons behind that preference are pretty relatable. Gen Zers generally want to be close to their friends and the amenities that make daily life easier and more fun. Compared to millennials and Gen Xers who plan to buy soon, young adults are more likely to prioritize walkability, proximity to shopping, entertainment, loved ones, and green space, and a shorter commute. Gen Z adults tend to be willing to spend on experiences, and cities put a lot of experiences within reach.Among prospective Gen Z homeowners, these are the features they're most likely to call important. In each case, they lead every other generation:Parks, outdoor recreation, and green space: 60%Proximity to a job or a short commute, plus work flexibility: 54%Walkability and closeness to shops, restaurants, and family and friends: 53%Culture, dining, and entertainment: 43%Gen Z Renters Are Also Future-ThinkingIt's tempting to assume Gen Zers gravitate toward cities simply because they live in the “now.” But the numbers contest that theory: Prospective Gen Z and millennial homeowners are equally likely (54%) to say that quality schools and a family-friendly community matter to them, a higher share than older generations. In other words, wanting a city doesn't mean not wanting the things people traditionally associate with the suburbs. Many young adults simply want both.None of this means every Gen Zer plans to stay in the city forever. But right now, urban living is a genuine priority for many young prospective homeowners.In Major Cities, Renting Is Often the Best Option for Cash-Strapped Young AdultsThe dream often meets the price tag for Gen Zers. Currently, 57% of Gen Zers who expect to buy a home soon already live in a city. However, 80% say they would live in a walkable, transit-connected city neighborhood if it cost the same as or less than a suburban home. That gap between where they are and where they'd like to be is wider for Gen Z than for older buyers: 68% of people ages 30-45 and 65% of those ages 46-61 said the same.The Reality CheckThe math of suburban versus city living isn't always what most would expect. Suburban homes are sometimes less expensive than city homes. So in exactly the places young adults most want to live, buying downtown often costs a serious premium.New York City is the clearest example. There, suburban homes are about 43% less expensive than homes in the urban core. The average NYC home costs nearly $3 million, while renters can expect to pay around $4,185 per month for an apartment. That rent figure is still well above the national average, but it makes renting far more attainable for a young adult than saving up to buy in the same neighborhood.It also helps explain why 28% of Gen Z prospective homeowners say buying feels equally affordable in urban and suburban areas. This is a higher share than millennials (23%) or Gen Xers (23%), which may nudge even more of them toward staying put in the city.Add it all up, and plenty of young adults who want the bustle of a major metro may end up renting for the foreseeable future — often by choice.In 2025, 20% of U.S. adults said they rent because they don't want to be house-poor, and that number climbs to 27% among people ages 18-29. Beyond avoiding a stretched budget, Gen Zers also commonly say they rent because they want:Greater flexibility (21%)Less stress and responsibility than owning (20%)Access to amenities and social interaction (10%) Apartments.com Different Milestones for Different GenerationsFor a long time, buying a home has been treated as one of the major milestones of adulthood. But not everyone wants to own right now, and for many Gen Zers, renting in the city is a trade-off they're glad to make if it means living the life they actually want.Young adults are navigating a tough job market and, like everyone else, absorbing the high cost of living. Cities can carry a higher overall price tag than the suburbs or the countryside, but they also tend to offer better access to jobs and a steady supply of free or low-cost events and services. Work is a serious factor here, too: 39% of Gen Z prospective homeowners say that even with some hybrid or remote flexibility, their work situation heavily shapes where they'd buy.All that said, it's fair to acknowledge the other side of the coin. For some young adults, setting aside the goal of homeownership stings, even when the decision makes sense on paper. It can be genuinely hard to let go of a milestone you grew up expecting to hit on a certain timeline.Those struggling with the idea of homeownership are far from alone. Many people are choosing to rent long-term, and it's one more example of the tricky financial spot a lot of Gen Zers find themselves in. In fact, more than 1 in 3 (35%) Gen Zers say they'd accept delaying major life goals as a housing affordability trade-off, compared to 21% of all adults.The Suburbs Aren't Calling Yet. Young Adults Are Becoming More Interested in City Living Over TimeIf you're expecting this to be a phase Gen Z grows out of, the data says otherwise, at least for now. A full 42% of Gen Z prospective homeowners say their interest in city living has grown over the last two years, dramatically more than older generations, where just 27% of 30- to 45-year-olds and 23% of 46- to 61-year-olds say the same.Rather than cooling on cities as they get a little older and a little more established, young adults are leaning in. It makes sense given the moment they're in: cities offer proximity to jobs, opportunities to build a network, and a lower-commitment way to live somewhere expensive while they get their financial footing. For a generation focused on both today's lifestyle and tomorrow's stability, urban living checks a lot of boxes.MethodologyThe City Comeback Index survey was conducted by Centiment on behalf of Apartments.com. The survey was fielded in late 2025 and is based on 1,045 completed responses from U.S. adults who indicated they were looking to buy a home within the next one to three years. The Centiment data is unweighted.The Rent Forever survey of 523 adults ages 18 and over was conducted via SurveyMonkey Audience for Apartments.com on April 10, 2025. Data is unweighted, and the margin of error is approximately +/-4% for the overall sample with a 95% confidence level.This story was produced by Apartments.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	DHS defends investigating agency critics and giving them warning notices Federal officials acknowledged that ICE special agents tracked a New York man to his house, the airport and a hotel to question him about a critical email he sent to the former head of ICE in January.
	Hurricane season report: The US cities most at risk for storm damage Hurricane season report: The US cities most at risk for storm damageThe Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 each year. For millions of Americans living in coastal and inland communities across the Gulf Coast, the Southeast, and the Atlantic Seaboard, that period is associated with documented and measurable risks. In this report, Mokaram Injury Lawyers, a Houston-based personal injury law firm, examines federal data identifying the cities with the greatest exposure to storm surge, hurricane-force winds, and flooding, drawing on the expanded record of storm impacts from recent seasons.What Federal Data ShowsThe National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) has tracked U.S. billion-dollar weather and climate disasters since 1980. Of the 403 separate events on that record through Dec. 31, 2024, tropical cyclones have caused the most total damage, totaling over $1.5 trillion, with an average cost of $23 billion per event. Hurricanes are also responsible for the highest number of deaths among all tracked disaster types, accounting for 7,211 fatalities since 1980, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) hurricane costs data.By state, the cumulative picture is concentrated in the Gulf and Southeast:Florida leads all states in total costs from billion-dollar disasters since 1980, at approximately $450 billion, driven largely by hurricanes.Texas ranks second, at approximately $436 billion, and has been affected by the highest number of billion-dollar disasters of any state since 1980.Louisiana ranks third, at approximately $314 billion in total costs. Mokaram Injury Lawyers Those figures come from NOAA's 2024 billion-dollar disaster analysis, which also reported that the U.S. experienced 27 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2024 alone, totaling $182.7 billion in damages, the fourth-highest annual total on record.The Cities With the Highest Exposure to Storm SurgeStorm surge, the abnormal rise in seawater pushed inland by a hurricane's winds, is identified by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) as the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the United States. The NHC uses its SLOSH (Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes) model to simulate storm surge risk across the Gulf and Atlantic coasts under Category 1 through 5 scenarios. The agency updated its national storm surge risk maps in 2025, reprocessing Gulf and East Coast data to improve spatial resolution.The NHC notes that storm surge is not limited to beachfront communities, with risk extending several miles inland in some areas.Among the metropolitan areas with the largest number of homes at risk from storm surge and hurricane winds, based on Cotality 2026 risk assessments, include:Miami: Approximately 791,775 properties at risk from a Category 5 storm, with a potential reconstruction cost value of $158 billion. AccuWeather analysis of NOAA hurricane research data estimates Miami's annual probability of hurricane impact at 16%, with a direct strike occurring on average every six to eight years.New York: Approximately 731,137 properties at risk, with a potential reconstruction cost of $283 billion. New York's vulnerability is largely linked to storm surge, as demonstrated by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, which caused an estimated $19 billion in damage to the state.Tampa, Florida: Approximately 465,644 properties at risk, with a potential reconstruction cost of $84 billion.New Orleans: Approximately 399,403 properties at risk, with a potential reconstruction cost of $101 billion. More than 50% of the city sits below sea level, and AccuWeather analysis of NOAA data estimates its annual hurricane impact probability at 11%.Virginia Beach, Virginia: Approximately 391,365 properties at risk, with a potential reconstruction cost of $95 billion.Houston: Approximately 294,188 properties at risk, with a potential reconstruction cost of $64 billion. Mokaram Injury Lawyers Florida has the largest total number of homes with moderate or greater risk of hurricane wind damage at 8,178,843, with a reconstruction cost value of $2.32 trillion. The state also leads in storm surge exposure, with 2,414,132 homes at moderate or greater surge risk, according to 2025 risk data. Mokaram Injury Lawyers Historical Frequency: Which Cities See Storms Most OftenBeyond property exposure, historical storm tracking data provides insight into how frequently specific locations are affected. Based on NOAA hurricane research data analyzed by AccuWeather, using 126 years of hurricane track data:Miami and Key West, Florida: Each carries a 16% annual probability of hurricane impact, the highest among major U.S. cities. Key West is directly impacted by a hurricane on average every six years.Tampa, Florida: Has an estimated 11% annual probability of hurricane impact. The city's location at the top of a funnel-shaped bay is associated with increased storm surge exposure.New Orleans: Also at 11%, with a hurricane making landfall within 50 miles on average every seven to 11 years.Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, holds the record for the most hurricane and tropical storm contacts since 1871 in tracking data maintained by HurricaneCity.com, which draws on NHC historical archives.The 2025 Season OutlookNOAA's 2025 Atlantic hurricane season outlook, released ahead of the June 1 season start, forecasts a 60% chance of an above-normal season. Forecasters projected 13 to 19 named storms, with six to 10 becoming hurricanes and three to five reaching major hurricane strength (Category 3 or higher). NOAA cited continued El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO)-neutral conditions, warmer-than-average ocean temperatures, weak wind shear, and elevated activity from the West African monsoon as contributing factors.The agency also noted that sea level rise is associated with increased storm surge impact from hurricanes, a trend documented in NOAA's Fifth National Climate Assessment.This story was produced by Mokaram Injury Lawyers and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The US may be hitting a tipping point for heat pumps The US may be hitting a tipping point for heat pumpsIt appears America may be falling in love with heat pumps, which is a tall order for an appliance. Heat pumps extract warmth from wintry air and bring it inside, a far more efficient way of staying toasty than with gas furnaces. It’s better to move heat from one place to another, instead of generating it by burning fossil fuels. Cold-climate heat pumps can still do this in the most frigid of places. As a bonus, in the summer, a heat pump reverses the process to act like a traditional air conditioner, providing comfort in all seasons.According to a new report from the nonprofit Building Decarbonization Coalition, over the past 15 years, heat pump sales have doubled. In the first quarter of 2026, heat pump shipments outpaced shipments of fossil fuel furnaces by 32%, and narrowly missed beating out AC units. And in 2024, 46% of new housing included a heat pump, compared to 47% with forced-air furnaces, which includes models running on natural gas and electric versions that work like giant hair dryers.“All the trends are pointing towards increased heat pump adoption, not only versus gas, but also versus just traditional one-way air conditioning,” Kevin Carbonnier, associate director of analytics at the coalition, told Grist for this article. “It’s not just that heat pumps are better, more comfortable, more efficient than furnaces. But also, you get the two-in-one appliance.”A major driver of this electrification is new housing. Three-quarters of new apartments in the U.S. are heated electrically, and if you’re doing that, the thinking goes, you may as well install electric stoves. At that point, it doesn’t make sense for a builder to spend money to pipe natural gas into the place. “It’s kind of becoming more of a common-sense measure to only build electric, especially with these new buildings, because the appliances are also so much more efficient,” said Kristin George Bagdanov, associate director of research at the coalition.The tricky bit is that homebuilders too often opt for resistance heating, like baseboard heaters, which are basically giant toasters. These have a “coefficient of performance,” or COP, of one, meaning you get one unit of heat for every unit of energy that goes into the device. Heat pumps, by contrast, have a COP of between 2 and 4, making them at least twice as efficient as baseboard heaters.Apartment builders seem to be coming around to heat pumps, though. Half a century ago, few new structures used them, opting instead for resistance heating. But since 2010 — in the Northwest, at least — 18% of new apartment buildings featured heat pumps, according to a recent report from the nonprofit Sightline Institute. Multifamily housing, then, is a hugely powerful and popular way for the U.S. to decarbonize, as both Democrats and Republicans agree that the country urgently needs new housing. The Building Decarbonization Coalition’s report also notes that in new housing overall, including single-family homes, heat pumps were installed nearly half the time in 2024.Utilities are also experimenting with another way of heating and cooling buildings with heat pumps that is even more efficient. It’s known as networked geothermal. The utility drills holes in the ground, installs pipes that look almost exactly like gas ones, pumps liquid through them, and delivers it to the homes and businesses in a neighborhood, where heat pumps use the water, rather than air, to work. Because the earth might still be 50 degrees Fahrenheit as air temperatures drop below freezing, the devices can extract consistent subterranean heat in the winter, then spend the summer drawing heat from structures and adding it to the liquid, which circulates back through the ground. This makes a utility’s geothermal system up to seven or eight times more efficient than having the same homes using gas furnaces.You might imagine a future, then, where liquid, not natural gas, flows into neighborhoods with nothing but electrified kitchens. “It’s all the same skill sets: managing infrastructure systems, drilling, laying down pipe in the street,” Carbonnier said. “All the same stuff that the gas workers are already doing.”Ultra-efficient systems like networked geothermal aren’t just ideal for decarbonization because they run on electricity. As the U.S. uses more electricity in general — as massive data centers plug into the grid, for instance — utilities will have to build out more solar and wind farms, transmission lines, and battery banks to store power. Those costs get passed down to ratepayers. The less energy used for warming and cooling our homes, the less additional electricity and infrastructure needed, reducing energy bills. Electric vehicles are another way utilities are trying to avoid adding infrastructure: All those batteries will place extra demand on the grid, but can also send power to it in times of need. This will also lower costs for customers.Energy bills have exploded of late, entering the political zeitgeist, as pressure increases on politicians to do something. “I think for a long time individual consumers were taught that it was their fault if their bills were high; either they weren’t turning off their lights, or they were keeping their thermostat too low or too high,” George Bagdanov said. Now they’re learning more about how public utility commissions set rates, how much money building out additional fossil fuel infrastructure costs, and how a utility’s investors reap financial rewards. “And then we kind of saw more of a shift to the conversation being about the systems around those bills,” George Bagdanov said.Meanwhile, the market continues shifting in favor of the heat pump. “It’s been four years in a row that there’s more heat pumps being shipped out from manufacturers than fossil fuel furnaces,” Carbonnier said. “I think we are at a tipping point.”This story was produced by Grist and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Tickets available for Fall Senior Golf Cart Tour in Bettendorf The Friends of Bettendorf Parks & Recreation – partners of the Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department and endorsed by the City of Bettendorf – invite area seniors to participate in their annual Fall Senior Golf Cart Tour on Monday, Sept. 14, a news release says. There is no rain date. Held twice a year in [...]
	A Ten-Year Term Limit for Illinois Speakers Can Feel Like a Long Time If the Speaker Is a Very Tedious Person After Michael J Madigan’s 36 years as Illinois House Speaker, a ten-year term limit on current and future speakers doesn’t seem like a lot of time in the big chair. Except it is.
	What research shows about how divorce affects children's academic performance What research shows about how divorce affects children's academic performanceNearly one in three American children experiences parental divorce before turning 18, and decades of research show the classroom is where that disruption often shows up first. In this article, Skillern Firm Divorce & Child Custody Lawyers, a Texas family law firm, examines research on how divorce affects children's academic performance and which factors help protect kids from the worst of it.Parental divorce is associated with lower test scores, reduced classroom engagement, and diminished long-term educational attainment, though how severe that effect is depends largely on how much conflict children witness and how well parents cooperate after the split.The Scale of the IssueThe numbers are worth understanding. According to a 2025 working paper drawing on U.S. Census Bureau records, federal tax data, and Social Security Administration information, the share of children living with a single divorced parent grew from below 2% before 1950 to nearly 25% by 2000. Nearly one-third of U.S. children experience divorce in their households while they are minors.A landmark meta-analysis by sociologist Paul Amato, published in the Journal of Family Psychology, found that children from divorced families continued to score significantly lower on measures of academic achievement, conduct, and psychological adjustment compared with peers from continuously married households.A later analysis by the same researcher reported that, after controlling for research methodology quality, children of divorce performed 0.17 standard deviations lower on academic achievement measures than their counterparts from intact families. That gap is modest in statistical terms but meaningful when aggregated across an entire school year of learning.What Drives the Academic GapThe stress children experience often predates the legal separation, and academic difficulties can begin before parents even file. A longitudinal study published in the Journal of School Psychology used data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Cohort, a nationally representative federal dataset tracking children from kindergarten through eighth grade, to examine why divorce disrupts learning.The study found that divorce was associated with less growth in reading and mathematics test scores, and that a child's engagement and motivation in the classroom, what researchers call "approaches to learning," accounted for part of that gap, mediating roughly 18% of the effect in reading and 12% in mathematics. Divorce does not lower grades directly. It works partly by reducing the behavioral and motivational engagement that sustains learning over time.Parental separation commonly triggers a decline in household economic conditions, which in turn is linked to lower academic performance and reduced educational attainment. The Census Bureau working paper found that divorced households fell from the 57th to the 36th income percentile after separation, recovering only about half of that lost ground over time. Reduced family resources affect everything from access to tutoring and school supplies to the stability of housing and neighborhood school continuity.School transitions compound those effects. When divorce prompts a move to a less expensive home or neighborhood, children frequently change schools mid-year, losing established relationships with teachers and peers at a critical point in their development. Research consistently links mid-year school changes to declines in academic performance and increased behavioral difficulties, with the disruption most pronounced for children in elementary grades.The Variable Nobody Talks About Enough: Parental ConflictThe single strongest predictor of poor academic outcomes after divorce is not the divorce itself, but the level of conflict between parents that surrounds it. A review published in Perspectives on Psychological Science by Jennifer Lansford of Duke University's Center for Child and Family Policy synthesized decades of research and found that interparental conflict consistently functions as a key mediator between family structure and child outcomes, including in school.The co-parenting relationship after separation matters considerably. Research published in the Journal of School Psychology found that cooperative co-parenting relationships, marked by communication and shared responsibility, are linked to children's behavioral outcomes, academic achievement, and psychological well-being after divorce, in part because they support continued nonresidential parent involvement and reduce the level of ongoing conflict to which children are exposed.The custody and co-parenting arrangements established in a divorce proceeding are not only legal documents; they shape the daily environment children return to after school.What Protects Children's Academic PerformanceNot all of the research points in the same direction. Studies consistently identify factors that buffer children's outcomes. A randomized controlled trial of the New Beginnings Program, published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, followed children aged nine to 12 over six years and found that improving the quality of the parent-child relationship and reducing children's behavioral problems after divorce led to measurable improvements in educational goals and academic competence, particularly for children who began the study at the highest risk.The factors that matter most are also the ones families have some ability to influence: the level of conflict children witness, the consistency of routines across households, and the degree to which both parents remain actively involved in schooling. A child whose parents communicate respectfully about pickup schedules and homework is better positioned than one who enters the classroom carrying the weight of ongoing parental conflict.This story was produced by Skillern Firm Divorce & Child Custody Lawyers and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Jay Leno will perform at Rhythm City Casino, Davenport Jay Leno will perform at the Rhythm City Casino, 7077 Elmore Ave., Davenport, on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027, according to a news release. Tickets are available here or at The Market at Rhythm City for $55.15-$103.30, which includes tax and an online/phone ticketing fee. (The online/phone ticketing fee is waived when you purchase tickets at [...]
	Police: Search for man accused of shooting Muscatine officer continues Muscatine police provided new information Sunday evening on the search for a man accused of shooting an officer following a pursuit Friday.
	Nice day ahead for the Quad Cities Highs are expected to below average for the week ahead. After all the rain last week, lesser amounts are expected this week. Astounding rainfall amounts last week are recapped in this full 7-day forecast.
	Resignation, hirings and transfers from Bettendorf School District for Aug. 12 The following personnel items are from the Aug. 12 agenda of the Bettendorf Community School District. The School Board met at the Administration Center, 3311 18th St., Bettendorf.
	NuKole's Grub On Wheels expands to Davenport brick-and-mortar location NuKole’s Grub On Wheels has opened a new kitchen inside The Sport Bar and Lounge in East Village, Davenport.
	Rock Island and Henry County real estate transactions for August 16, 2026 Here are homes sales and property sales in Rock Island County and Henry County.
	Hayden Panettiere, who starred in 'Heroes' and 'Nashville,' dies at 36 A child actor since she was cast in various commercials as an 11-month-old, Panettiere was best known for her role as the country music star Juliette Barnes in the series "Nashville."
	Hannah Banana This is Roald Tweet in Rock Island."Abracadabra," and "Open, Sesame," can't possibly match the three magic words which end this Rock Island story.The main…
	Elon Musk's Starbase wants to expand in south Texas Landowners and activists worry about impact to the environment around SpaceX's complex.
	Cialis is an erectile dysfunction drug. Could it also help you live longer? In some wellness circles, tadalafil is promoted as a longevity drug. There is evidence showing a link between it and a lower risk of death in men, but there are no well-controlled trials in humans.
	As wildfires get worse, some states are struggling to pass fire protection rules There's a lot homeowners can do to prepare for wildfires, such as managing flammable plants and using fire-resistant building materials. But some states struggle to pass rules requiring those steps.
	Meta heads to court in a landmark trial about kids and social media addiction Four states are suing the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, alleging that the platforms were designed to hook kids and that Meta hid the mental health risks.
	Can a student ID be used for voting? More Republican-led states are banning it New bans on using student IDs for voting in Indiana and New Hampshire have sparked lawsuits after creating the latest hurdles to the ballot box for the U.S. voting-age group least likely to vote.
	How one video game is teaching and preserving American naval history (BPT) - Key takeawaysVideo games can be a powerful tool to teach and preserve history.World of Warships, a free-to-play multiplayer naval combat game, offers players an opportunity to immerse themselves in American naval history.One of the most recent game updates celebrated America's 250th anniversary.Beyond gameplay, the game's developer and publisher supports other educational ventures to connect players with military history.Many modern video games aim to immerse players in the game's world. And when coupled with historical events, these games can teach history and preserve it for current and future generations. One game that stands at the forefront of this trend is World of Warships, a leading naval multiplayer online game that brings American military history to life.World of Warships prides itself on being the world's largest virtual naval museum, boasting 800 ship models and counting. Each ship has been faithfully recreated down to the rivets. As players progress through the game, they'll have the opportunity to take part in several events inspired by history, including famous World War II battles and other key conflicts across the 20th century.Celebrating the dawn of the nation Last month, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, Wargaming — the game's developer and publisher — released a special update that allows players to explore America's origins. In the new "Dawn of a Nation" narrative campaign, players could experience the personal stories of four characters from different nations and learn how the Thirteen Colonies won their independence. As players progressed through the campaign, they'd collect narrative-specific rewards, including the formidable Tier VIII U.S. cruiser Congress.Wargaming continued the Fourth of July celebration in an update to World of Warships: Legends, an adapted version of the original video game featuring faster-paced, arcade-style gameplay. Players could immerse themselves in dedicated historical activities, including the "Three Eras of Freedom" Collection and the "Big Chief" Calendar. By completing the daily calendar, players unlocked the legendary Commander Ernest E. Evans, alongside three Commander guises of notable figures from defining eras of U.S. Navy history.Beyond gameplay: Preserving America's naval heritageWargaming doesn't limit its dedication to preserving American history to direct gameplay alone. The game developer has also invested heavily in connecting players with naval museums around the world through its annual "Longest Night of Museums" event.This year's event dove into 160 years of torpedo history across seven world-class museums during a special live broadcast on the official World of Warships Twitch channel. Alongside the livestream announcement, a special video commemorated the 85th anniversary of the sinking of the Bismarck, an iconic German battleship. Another great example of Wargaming's efforts to preserve and spread knowledge of American naval history is its partnership with the veteran nonprofit FORCE BLUE. Marking the 80th anniversaries of the D-Day landings, and the Battle of Okinawa — two pivotal moments in the European and Pacific Theaters of World War II — Wargaming and FORCE BLUE collaborated on "Frog Fathers: Lessons from the Normandy Surf" and "Frog Fathers 2: Last Battle of the Pacific." These documentaries follow two teams of veterans comprised of Navy SEALs, Marines (including actor and FORCE BLUE co-founder Rudy Reyes), and a Green Beret as they follow in the footsteps of their predecessors, revisiting battle sites and retracing the unique challenges faced by the Naval Combat Demolition Unit and Underwater Demolition Teams of old.Finally, for ongoing historical education, the company's dedicated YouTube series, Naval Legends, showcases naval museums around the globe and fosters deep appreciation for maritime heritage.Educational entertainment is a powerful tool. Through its games and educational initiatives, Wargaming proves that playing video games and learning history are not mutually exclusive. To learn more about World of Warships and World of Warships: Legends, visit WorldOfWarships.com.
	Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea President Trump explained the decision by saying South Korea had declined to help with the "denuclearization" of Iran and he cited his good relationship with North Korea's leader.
Sunday, August 16th, 2026
	HAVlife Foundation: Pay to play In this episode of Real Conversations in the QC, the cast explores the HAVlife Foundation and pay to play.
	3 Must-Dos Before Your Next Road Trip (Feature Impact) Review any driver's road trip checklist, and you'll likely find some items always top the list, such as suitcases, snacks and (sometimes) a spare tire. New research from Hankook Tire's ongoing consumer Gauge Index Survey found that, when packing for a road trip, nearly 6 in 10 drivers (58%) said they would prioritize bringing a spare tire and tools. While the majority said they check their spare tire, getting stuck without air in the spare could quickly turn an adventure into a headache. Before you hit the road next, here are three ways to prepare: 1. Check your vehicle. Preparing for a long road trip requires more than simply saving room in the suitcase for souvenirs. Once the bags are packed, it's easy to get behind the wheel and go. However, a quick car inspection is an important step, especially as 36% of Americans said if they could eliminate one travel inconvenience, it would be vehicle issues. According to the survey, nearly all drivers (86%) check their fuel level before a road trip. Yet only about two-thirds (66%) inspect their engine fluids even though this is also a key recommendation before a long drive. Don't forget to plan your refueling or EV charging stops ahead of time: 27% of drivers said running out of fuel is their top concern on the road. 2. Kick the tires. Most drivers (78%) check their tire pressure before a road trip, and the majority of drivers (90%) have a spare tire in their vehicle. Yet less than half (44%) actually check their spare tire before a long drive. This may be because 71% of drivers regularly inspect their spare at least once a month, giving them peace of mind that it's ready if needed. Before heading out, experts recommend checking tire tread, as well. A quick coin test can confirm your tires are in good shape. Insert a nickel or quarter heads-down into the groove of the tire with the head pointing down. If the top of the head is visible, it's recommended to replace the tires. 3. Pack the emergency essentials. Beyond the phone charger and salty-and-sweet snack combo of choice, think about what else you might need if you find yourself in a roadside emergency. Many drivers consider a first-aid kit (25%) and navigation system or map (35%) essential additions to a spare tire. The latter could certainly help avoid many drivers' biggest worries: More than 1 in 5 (21%) said getting stranded in a remote area is their worst-case scenario for a road trip mishap. No matter where your journey takes you, a little preparation goes a long way. By referring to these insights from Hankook Tire's Gauge Index Survey, you can start your adventure confidently prepared for whatever the road may bring. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Pediatric Cancer Goes Beyond a Victory Bell: How Research and Innovation Improve Survivorship Rates (Feature Impact) For every tear-jerking video found online of a child ringing a bell that signifies a cancer journey victory, there are dozens, if not more, people working behind the scenes. From leading minds in cancer research to doctors, nurses and support staff, a vast network of people and decades of medical advancements make those moments possible. In fact, in the last 10 years, the FDA approved 10 new immunotherapies and 20 molecularly targeted therapies to treat pediatric cancers, according to the American Association for Cancer Research. Those breakthroughs - and the children they impact - come with a cost, which is why Hyundai Hope on Wheels has served as a pioneer in increasing survival rates by investing $303 million in pediatric cancer research over nearly three decades. Those funds have supported more than 1,600 grants to 210 institutions, leading to new insights into cancer biology, clinical trials and new drug development while bringing hope at all stages of a child's cancer journey. However, there remains work to be accomplished. According to a survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of Hyundai Hope on Wheels, 46% of U.S. adults believe that a child ringing a hospital bell after cancer treatment signifies the child is cancer-free and their medical journey is largely over. The reality is more nuanced than that. In fact, more than one-third of respondents said they're not familiar with the term cancer survivorship or they have heard the term but don't fully understand what it means. Many health care organizations define survivorship as beginning at the time of diagnosis and continuing through treatment and beyond. According to the American Association for Cancer Research, children who survive cancer face several long-term physical and psycho-social challenges due to their cancer and treatment, including planned surgeries, additional rounds of radiation or other forms of medical treatment to address common physical challenges stemming from chemotherapy. Survival rates continue increasing with scientific and technological breakthroughs, up from 75% to 85% in nearly three decades, representing roughly 40,000 more children surviving their diagnoses. More than 3 in 4 U.S. adults are encouraged by that progress. For survivors, treatment is just the beginning. Research, follow-up care and long-term funding determine what comes next, and every grant funded and every survivorship program backed means more children reaching adulthood. According to the survey, more than 80% of adults said they're more likely to support organizations that fund survivorship services, creating opportunities to fund crucial research and support for children facing pediatric cancer. Collaboration among leading minds, made possible by funding from organizations like Hyundai Hope on Wheels, has led to the development of comprehensive approaches to help children thrive during life after cancer, including enhanced medical records, AI integration, socioemotional support and combatting long-term side effects. Find more information and ways you can join the fight by visiting HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	School Night Meals That Help Busy Families Share Time Together (Feature Impact) Weeknights often feel like a race against the clock. Busy families feel the squeeze from school pickups, homework and social commitments, but dinner remains one of the few opportunities for everyone to slow down, reconnect and share important moments together at the close of a hectic day. With a little planning and convenient ingredients like Little Potatoes - which come pre-washed, require no peeling and are small enough that they don't need to be cut - families can spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table. For example, The Little Potato Company's new A Little Homestyle Ranch Microwave Ready Kit serves up a favorite flavor in an easy-to-prepare side dish your whole family will love. Simply pop the steamable tray into the microwave for 5 minutes, sprinkle on the included ranch seasoning pack and enjoy without any prep or cleanup. They're also a perfect foundation for this easy, all-in-one Sheet Pan Chicken and Little Potatoes recipe. It's ideal for busy weeknights as a balanced, flavorful meal that requires just 10 minutes of prep and minimal cleanup. Plus, you can customize with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest. If you're in search of a simple side dish that can accompany a variety of family favorites, these flavor-filled Ranch Green Beans and Little Potatoes with Bacon are a great fit for a backyard barbecue or casual evening with your nearest and dearest. To find more ways to bring loved ones together at the table throughout the school year, visit LittlePotatoes.com. Sheet Pan Chicken and Little Potatoes Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30-35 minutes Servings: 4 1 1/2 pounds Little Potatoes 2 cups broccoli florets 1 bell pepper 1 red onion 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2-3 teaspoons of your favorite seasoning blend 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts fresh parsley or cilantro (optional) lemon wedges (optional) Preheat oven to 400 F and line baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Slice Little Potatoes in half. Slice broccoli florets, bell pepper and onion into bite-sized pieces. In mixing bowl, toss veggies with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1-1 1/2 teaspoons seasoning. Spread veggies evenly on baking sheet. In same bowl, add chicken, remaining seasoning and remaining olive oil. Toss to combine then place chicken between veggies in single layer. Roast 30-35 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through to internal temperature of 165 F and potatoes are tender. Flip veggies and chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Let chicken rest 2-3 minutes. Divide Little Potatoes, veggies and chicken into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Ranch Green Beans and Little Potatoes with Bacon Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 2 1 package maple bacon 1/2 pound fresh string beans, washed 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon rosemary salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 package A Little Homestyle Ranch Microwave Ready Kit On stovetop, cook bacon until crispy, reserving 1/4 cup bacon grease. Crumble bacon and set aside. In same pan, add fresh string beans, bacon grease, olive oil, garlic powder and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Saute until soft. Peel back plastic on potatoes kit and microwave 5 minutes. Let potatoes cool 1-2 minutes and spread ranch seasoning over potatoes followed by bacon and string beans.
	Top 5 Tips for Teaching Kids Modern Money Lessons in the Digital Age (Feature Impact) Helping kids feel confident about money can start with simple, everyday experiences. That can be especially important today, when children may hear different messages about money from parents, friends and financial influencers on social media. Giving kids opportunities to practice earning, saving, spending and making choices with money can help them build skills and confidence, even as more of their financial lives become digital. Parents don't need to be financial experts to help children develop healthy money habits. Starting conversations early and giving kids opportunities to practice skills like budgeting, saving and investing can prepare them to make thoughtful financial decisions as they grow. Consider these tips from the experts at Charles Schwab, which provides a full range of brokerage, banking and financial advisory services, to help build kids' financial knowledge and confidence. Start with Hands-On Activities As children grow, the way parents teach them about money should grow with them. Young kids can start by filling piggy banks or savings jars with coins and cash. As they get older, help them open bank accounts to see how their balances change over time. Introduce budgeting by letting kids make some of their own spending decisions, such as choosing a snack or deciding whether to go to a movie or save for new headphones. Older kids can get involved in family decisions, such as planning a weekend trip within a set budget. Encourage Smart Saving and Investing Habits Learning to save and invest early can help kids see how financial decisions pay off over time. Start with a savings account and show them how compound interest can help their money grow. As kids enter their teen years, look for ways to give them hands-on experience with investing. A teen investing account can give young people a real-world opportunity to research investments, make decisions and learn how to manage money with a parent's guidance and oversight, helping them better understand risk and reward while building financial skills and confidence. Teach Teens About Debt and Credit Before teens begin using credit themselves, help them understand what borrowing actually costs. A credit card may make a purchase feel easy in the moment, but interest and fees can make that purchase more expensive if the balance isn't paid off. Talk about the importance of living within their means, how credit scores work and how interest and late fees can cause debt to grow. Real-life examples, such as comparing the cost of paying for something now versus the cost of carrying a balance, can make these lessons easier to understand. Introduce Kid-Friendly Digital Tools For today's kids, learning about money also means learning how to manage it digitally. When children are old enough to have their own devices or use a parent's device with supervision, introduce them to age-appropriate banking and budgeting tools. Show them how to check a balance, track spending and follow progress toward a savings goal. These everyday experiences help connect the money lessons they learn at home with the tools they'll likely use as adults. Keep Talking About Money Building financial confidence doesn't happen through one conversation. Make money an ongoing, age-appropriate topic by asking kids what they think about spending and saving, and what short- and long-term goals matter to them. Invite them to ask questions and, when appropriate, include them in everyday household money decisions. Giving kids a safe place to learn and make choices (and sometimes mistakes) can help them become more comfortable managing money. Learn more modern strategies for teaching kids and teens financial literacy at SchwabMoneywise.com. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Forever to For Sale: The Resilient Flooring Benefits for Short- and Long-Term Homeowners (Feature Impact) Whether you just closed on your forever home or decided to stay put with a low-interest loan and renovate, choosing the right flooring often pays off. Flooring is a foundation homeowners count on every day in their homes and often a key factor for potential buyers. No matter where you are in your home journey, your flooring needs to deliver. Great design, durability, ease of maintenance, convenience, indoor air quality, performance and value - these are universal considerations when choosing flooring, but not every type of flooring offers these benefits with such a wide breadth of options. Resilient flooring has a host of solutions that offer a balance of performance with personalization, making it a great option for homeowners at every stage of their building or renovation journeys. Resilient Meets You Where You Are If you're staying put, one of the most impactful things you can do to improve your home is refresh your floors. In addition to a new and inspiring aesthetic, resilient flooring offers numerous options that deliver more. Ease of maintenance is one of the most valued attributes in flooring. Resilient flooring has a host of options that are known for how easy they are to clean and how well they stand up to furry friends' claws and accidental spills. On the other hand, if you're moving on and up, it's important to remember dated and poorly maintained flooring are red flags for potential buyers or renters, making them consider repair costs or whether the rest of the home has been maintained. Updating flooring prior to selling often supports the value of your home compared to similar homes with worn or outdated floors. They inspire in the listing photos, create a positive first impression and make your home feel move-in ready. No matter where you are in your home journey, when you're balancing your budget for upgrades, it's important to consider where you'll get a good reward for your investment. Resilient flooring offers thousands of options to refresh any space in your home at a host of price points. When designing or redesigning a space, it's important to also look beyond durability and performance and consider the invisible benefits like indoor air quality. Resilient flooring offers two major third-party certifications in indoor air quality. The FloorScore certification means your floors have been tested and confirmed to promote good indoor air quality. For rigid core flooring, Assure Certified also has strict standards for indoor air quality and content and performance requirements. Both give you and your family peace of mind, knowing your floors are creating a better home environment where you live, play and work. Sound Footing for Any Stage in the Home Journey Ultimately, resilient flooring has numerous options that deliver beauty and performance for your family now and years down the road. Whether you're staying put or moving to your next home, resilient flooring meets you where you are in life and helps you enjoy the next step. Its combination of thousands of designs, durability, ease of maintenance, third-party certifications and more make it a great option for sellers and dwellers. To learn more about the benefits of resilient flooring, visit BeautifullyResponsible.com.
	More Than Hair: How the Back-to-School Haircut Impacts Confidence (Feature Impact) For years, parents make nearly every style decision for their children - from first-day outfits to picture-day haircuts. Then, almost overnight, those little ones develop opinions of their own about what to wear and how to style their hair. As boys enter middle and high school, 84% of parents notice their sons care significantly or somewhat more about their appearance, based on results of a survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of Sport Clips Haircuts, a sports-themed haircutting franchise specializing in haircuts for men and boys. What's more, according to the American Psychological Association, physical appearance is an important part of adolescent identity, helping young people express themselves while also navigating social expectations and peer relationships. Those expectations have added more pressure on children and teens to present themselves well as nearly three-quarters of parents surveyed (71%) said boys today face more pressure to look put-together going into a new school year than they remember from their own school years. Haircuts are Becoming Part of Back-to-School Checklists While shopping for school supplies, organizing backpacks and choosing first-day outfits are all familiar traditions ahead of a new school year, scheduling a haircut is increasingly part of the back-to-school agenda. While 20% of parents surveyed notice their child shift back into school mode when they pick out their first-day outfit, and another 19% said it's when their sons pack or organize their bags, 71% said getting their son a fresh haircut or new hairstyle has become a reliable part of their back-to-school routine. In fact, more than one-third of parents said their preteen or teenage sons are the ones asking for a back-to-school haircut. Another 22% said they bring it up around the same time, meaning more than half of boys are already thinking about how they'll show up on the first day. The Connection Between Appearance and Confidence Ninety-five percent of parents surveyed said the way their son feels about his appearance influences how confidently he approaches school, sports and social activities. As boys age and want to choose their own style, a haircut is only one piece of the equation. Allowing them to choose clothes they feel comfortable wearing as well as having conversations about what they're looking forward to (and what they're nervous about) as another school year begins are also part of the preparations that can help boost self-esteem before they ever walk through the school doors. The Hairstyles Boys are Asking for This Year If you thought parents' opinions about theirs sons' haircuts mattered, think again. More than half of boys ages 11-17 know exactly what haircut they want before the school year begins. Parents report many are inspired by celebrities, athletes or digital creators. According to the survey, 30% of boys want a tapered fade like the one U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese wore during the 2026 World Cup. Nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents said their child wants a classic cut, similar to YouTuber Caylus Cunningham. Only 10% of boys are requesting a longer or shaggy style, like actor Jacob Elordi, and even fewer are looking for fringe bangs; the "broccoli cut," which is short on the sides and curly on top; or a buzz cut. Whether it's a subtle trim or a completely new style, the back-to-school haircut has evolved into one of the first opportunities each school year for boys to express themselves. Learn more about this year's trends, and schedule an appointment ahead of the school year, at sportclipsinc.com.
	Part of East Moline building collapsed, fire officials say Officials said they don’t know if anyone was in the building during the collapse and there are no known injuries.
	Tyson plant closure could send ripple effect through local cattle industry The closure of Tyson Foods' Joslin beef plant is hitting local cattle farmers hard — fewer buyers at area sale barns could cut prices by up to $200 per head, and longer hauls to processors are adding costs to already tight margins.
	Muscatine officer shot during traffic stop; suspect still at large A Muscatine police officer is recovering at home after being shot during a traffic stop. Suspect Mark Lee Jackson, 59, remains at large as 16 agencies search a 120-acre perimeter.
	Muscatine shooting suspect still at large, officer expected to make full recovery Police say the suspect, Mark Lee Jackson, should be considered armed and dangerous. The public is asked to call 911 if they see him and should not approach him.
	Fresh Films debuts its first Quad Cities feature film at Alternating Currents Fresh Films debuted its first Quad Cities-made feature film during Alternating Currents, showcasing a production built with help from the local community.
	Muscatine police still looking for man accused of shooting officer Muscatine police are still looking for a man accused of shooting an officer, officials said during a press conference Sunday night.
	Quad Cities firefighters train for heavy vehicle rescues Quad Cities firefighters spent the weekend training for emergencies involving large vehicles, focusing on stabilization, rescue planning and specialized equipment.
	Fresh films debuts locally made feature film at Last Picture House During Alternating Currents four-day festival, Fresh Films debuted its locally created feature film at the Last Picture House in Davenport.
	Pritzker tours storm damage, signs flood relief bill expanding local Chicago programs Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill on Friday that allows more Chicago homeowners to access financial relief for flood damage locally while many communities in the state cleaned up from damaging storms.
	Gas leak reported on Olivia Drive in Geneseo; repairs expected to take several hours Nicor Gas crews are working to repair a gas leak on Olivia Drive in Geneseo, with repairs expected to continue for several hours.
	Real Conversations: Live at Alternating Currents The cast discussed the origins of Real Conversations and spoke with Black artists in the Quad Cities.
	Crowds pack Greyhound Lounge for Loose Meat Comedy Show in Davenport Alternating Currents hosted its Loose Meat Comedy Show bringing eight comedians to downtown Davenport.
	Multiple people dead as flooding continues in Indiana Some parts of Indiana received more than 11 inches of rainfall over three days, beginning Aug. 11, causing record floods. Several suburbs of Indianapolis also underwater.
	Kushner meets with Hamas on the Gaza road map ahead of talks with Netanyahu Jared Kushner, President Trump's son-in-law, held a rare meeting with Hamas leadership Sunday in Egypt, in a new diplomatic effort to make progress in the stalled Gaza ceasefire.
	Tommy John, namesake for a pioneering elbow surgery that saved his career, dies at 83 The left-handed MLB pitcher was 31 years old when he tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow in 1974, an injury that had been a death knell for pitchers' careers up to that point.
	National Democratic party leaders officially tell Iowa: They don’t get to be first in 2028 National Democratic Party leaders decided not to allow Iowa to hold its presidential nomination contest before most other states.
	Crime Stoppers offers reward for arrest of man accused of shooting Muscatine officer Police plan to hold a press conference at Sunday afternoon to provide an update on the case.
	A good – and bad – week for Italy's art police and museum security On Friday, Italian police said they'd recovered three paintings stolen from a museum near the city of Parma. By Saturday night, thieves in Sicily had made off with four more masterpieces.
	Lala is again a tropical storm, sending drenching rain and winds across Hawaii Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm Sunday after skirting Hawaii without making landfall, but it wasn't done punishing the Big Island with hurricane-force gusts.
	What really happened in Ceuta? Why we may never find out Hundreds of migrants have again attempted to cross from Morocco into the Spanish territory of Ceuta. This time, Moroccan officials fended them off, raising new questions about the crossing of July 30.
	4 the Record WEB EXTRA: Iowa Congressional candidate Bohannan's position on Israel We ran out of time and couldn't bring you all of my conversation with Iowa congressional candidate Christina Bohannan. We pick it up with the Democratic party's changing position regarding a long standing ally of the United States in the Middle East. It seems the Democratic party is weakening its support for Israel, if not [...]
	Breakfast Bankroll for week ending 8/14/26 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 [...]
	AI might be the most effective way to stop hackers attacks on water systems Securing the water supply across the country is getting more attention after dozens of water systems in twelve states now report being targeted by cyber attacks. There could be more than that we don't know about yet. It sounds a new alarm about concerns that have been around for several years, specifically that the country's [...]
	Iowa & Illinois attorneys general among those pressuring FCC to crack down on illegal robocalls Iowa and Illinois fight the same fight to keep you from getting unwanted computer generated phone calls. We will start with those annoying and frustrating interruptions to daily life we all know as robocalls. Attorneys general from all 50 states are trying to get the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to do more to stop those [...]
	Bohannan undeterred after 2 losses in third run to represent Iowa in Congress Our countdown to the November midterms puts us 79 days away from tallying the votes. There's one race on the ballot expected to be very close. That's the contest for Iowa’s first congressional seat. Republican incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks seeks a fourth term in office. She faces Democrat Christina Bohannan for the third time in a [...]
	Business Spotlight: Ridgecrest Village celebrates 60 years Ridgecrest is celebrating six decades of community, compassion and dedicated care this year, with the first residents moving in Dec. 19, 1966.
	As Trump blocks Medicaid funds, one trans teen's mom asks: What's next? A longtime Republican living in California says the Trump administration's continuing actions to target transgender youth take a personal toll.
	'What are we going to do?' The mom of a trans teen grapples with Trump's Medicaid move A longtime Republican living in California says the Trump administration's continuing actions to target transgender youth take a personal toll.
	MARK-TO-MARKET: For Caterpillar, AI revolution has turned to an industrial revolution According to data from Gartner, total global spending on AI is expected to reach $2.6 trillion in 2026.
	Quad-Cities farm stands getting creative with their offerings Area farm stands are evolving beyond simple driveway setups, embracing more elaborate self-service formats.
	Ukraine launches one of its largest aerial attacks of the war, killing at least 6 people in Russia Ukraine launched hundreds of drones across Russia Sunday, killing at least six people in one of Kyiv's largest aerial attacks of the war.
	Banvard's Panorama This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Landscape painters who sketch mountains and lakes have it easy. Their subjects fit so neatly into a well-proportioned…
	Doctors and women who've had it call for more attention on postpartum psychosis The high-profile murder trial of Lindsay Clancy's has put the condition in the spotlight. Women who have had it call for more research and understanding of a difficult mental illness.
	Billions of sea stars have died. A Northwest tribe is trying to save the species Sunflower sea stars are critically endangered in the Pacific Ocean. University of Washington researchers are working with the Samish Indian Nation to bring this 24-armed creature back from the brink of extinction.
	65 and older? Have a story to tell? Hit 'record' and send NPR your podcast This fall, we're asking seniors to send us their stories in audio form. Our judges will pick the best ones and air them on NPR.
Saturday, August 15th, 2026
	High school football preview: Riverdale Rams The Riverdale Rams are entering the 2026 football season with momentum after their first playoff appearance in 14 years.
	Iowa quarterback battle on display at Kids’ Day The quarterback battle was on full display at kids day and Iowa fans may have picked their guy, but head coach Kirk Ferentz isn’t ready to make a decision at quarterback yet.
	Transfer QB Katin Houser brings fastest release time in college football to Illinois With only eight starters returning this season, the Illinois football team is leaning heavily on transfer portal additions — none more so than quarterback Katin Houser.
	Crowds pack Greyhound Lounge for Loose Meat Comedy Show Eight comedians performed at the Loose Meat Comedy show at the Greyhound Lounge in Davenport.
	Ruling: Iowa contractors can’t negotiate insurance claims on homes they repair DES MOINES, Iowa — When storm damage hits a home, the person making money from the repairs cannot also serve as the person negotiating how much the insurance company should pay. A federal appeals court ruling this week upheld Iowa laws designed to keep those two roles separate. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the [...]
	Special Weather Statement until SAT 9:45 PM CDT Strong Thunderstorms Bringing Gusty Winds and Heavy Rainfall This Evening
	Special Weather Statement until SAT 9:30 PM CDT Strong Thunderstorms Bringing Gusty Winds and Heavy Rainfall This Evening
	Habitat for Humanity breaks ground on 149th and 150th homes in QC Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities conducted groundbreaking ceremonies Saturday, Aug. 15, on its 149th and 150th homes. These two are at 745 21st St. in East Moline and at 1117 12th St. in Moline.

Monday, August 17th, 2026

Sunday, August 16th, 2026

Saturday, August 15th, 2026