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

Monday, October 12th, 2026
	Davenport, Muscatine were first cities in Iowa to recognized Indigenous Peoples' Day The Quad Cities Area has historically been a home for members of the Sauk and Meskwaki nations.
	Injured man taken from Rock Island scene after reports of gunfire An injured man was removed from the scene after gunfire was reported about 5 p.m. Monday in Rock Island. Police put up crime scene tape at the Corner View convenience store and gas station at the intersection of 7th Avenue and 24th Street. A crowd in the area watched as officers and emergency vehicles gathered. [...]
	Two Burlington men accused of selling cardboard phones to Walmart kiosk The alleged scheme resulted in about 80 fraudulent transactions between April 12 and May 12, according to the West Burlington Police Department.
	Study: EICC generates $710 million in regional economic impact According to the study, 1 in every 22 jobs in our area is supported by EICC, its students and alumni. Today, many of those jobs are in healthcare.
	Diesel relief becomes key issue for Iowa voters ahead of midterms New study shows agriculture’s economic reach extends beyond the state’s farmers.
	Woman arrested after driving vehicle into pedestrians behind Davenport bar A Davenport woman is in custody after driving her vehicle into a group of pedestrians over the weekend.
	Community rallies around Big Apple Family Restaurant after fire Firefighters responded around 7:45 p.m. for a medium size fire at Big Apple Family Restaurant.
	Debate preview: Ashley Hinson focuses on health care, fuel prices, cancer research The 2026 Midterm Elections have several highly watched contests in Iowa, including the Senate seat currently held by Joni Ernst. Ashley Hinson won favor in the Republican primary in June with 74% of the vote. In anticipation of Nexstar Media's Senate debate scheduled for Oct. 13, here's how Hinson plans to address top concerns among [...]
	Davenport to begin phasing in two-way travel on 4th Street Once work is complete, 4th Street will fully switch to two-way traffic between Harrison and East River Drive.
	Another truck loses its roof to Davenport’s infamous Brady Street bridge Brady Street bridge claims another semi truck in downtown Davenport, shearing off trailer roof and scattering debris across three traffic lanes.
	Heavy police presence at Corner View gas station in Rock Island A heavy police presence is currently on scene at the Corner View gas station in Rock Island.
	Man arrested in California waives extradition back to Iowa The man who was arrested last week in California on warrants from a kidnapping and shooting in Davenport waived extradition back to Iowa on Monday.
	Government spent $10 million on pro-Trump ads after president said super PAC would fund Nearly $22 million in taxpayers funds has been spent to air the ads, with nearly half spent after Trump promised to fund what the White House calls public service announcements through his super PAC.
	Fire leaves major damage to Princeton's Big Apple Family Restaurant Fire officials have determined the fire was caused by electrical issues in the dining room.
	Complaint filed against Iowa senator alleging he lives in Illinois. Senator says it's not true. An ethics complaint alleges Iowa Sen. Scott Webster lives across the state line in Illinois. Webster denies the claim, calling it a political stunt.
	Former prison inmate sues state and counselor over alleged sexual exploitation A former Iowa prison inmate is suing the state’s Department of Corrections over her alleged sexual exploitation by a prison counselor.
	Iowa reports water surplus for third year in a row The last 12 months were the 20th wettest year in Iowa's history, with just over 38 inches of precipitation.
	Here are the semifinalists and commended for the 72nd annual National Merit Scholarship Over 1.2 million entered the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program.
	Moline police sound alarm on scam targeting elderly, California man arrested Police posted on social media that scammers are pretending to be from the government and telling victims to act to avoid further problems.
	Davenport woman allegedly withdraws over $28k under 7 bank accounts including 6 deceased members Amanda Tincher of Davenport faces five felony charges. The IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union employee is accused of making multiple suspicious transactions.
	New study finds Eastern Iowa Community Colleges generate more than $700 million for local economies That value, generated across Cedar, Clinton, Jackson, Louisa, Muscatine and Scott Counties, makes up approximately 3.3% of the region's total GDP.
	Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks visits Quad Cities businesses alongside U.S. Chamber of Commerce The congresswoman's stops included Small Town Pastry and Silverthorne Homebuilders.
	Davenport woman allegedly withdraws over $28k under 7 bank accounts including 6 dead members Amanda Tincher of Davenport faces five felony charges. The IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union employee is accused of making multiple suspicious transactions.
	Muscatine auctioning off historic trolley The 1985 trolley was once a gift to the city. Now, it will need extensive repairs.
	Governor Reynolds orders flags half-staff for firefighter who died on duty Charles Jones died on October 8 from a medical emergency he suffered while responding to a fire the previous day. He was 52 years old.
	Quad Cities Growing Families helps those navigating infertility treatment A new organization provides financial assistance to those in the QCA navigating infertility treatment. Brittany Zirkle and Megan Bausman joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about Quad Cities Growing Families. For more information, click here.
	Iowa State’s Bill Fennelly to retire at end of season Bill Fennelly, the winningest coach in Iowa State athletics history, announced Monday that he will retire at the conclusion of the 2026-27 season.
	Lee County man arrested, pleads guilty to drug delivery charges A Lee County man has been arrested after a July investigation by the Lee County Narcotics Task Force.
	“STRONG Minds” weekly programming series focusing on youth mental health to begin this week in Davenport Davenport Parks and Recreation is launching a weekly program with AmeriCorps called “STRONG Minds” to build relationship and communication skills for kids aged 12 to 15. The first session will occur on Tuesday, Oct. 13.
	Profiles in Faith: Rock Island's Word of Life Church derives diverse congregation from across the Quad Cities Monday means another weekend of religious services across the Quad Cities … has come and gone. This week, WVIK’s Joseph Leahy joined worshipers at Word of Life Church on 7th Avenue in Rock Island and has this profile in faith.
	Enjoy beer in Clinton, support Midwest Pets for Life Enjoy craft beer while raising funds for pet care in Clinton. Purina’s Raise a Pint for Pets event will be at 7 Hills South, 238 4th Avenue S. in Clinton on Oct. 17 from 1 – 4 p.m. The event will have raffles, giveaways and local beer and $1 per pint will be donated to [...]
	REVIEW: I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change at The Black Box Theatre in Moline I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change continues at The Black Box Theatre, 1623 – 5th Avenue in Moline, October 16,17, 22, 23, and 24 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday October 18 at 2:00 p.m.
	Coralville chef wins best-in-state award The Iowa Restaurant Association has named Chef Cory Barrett of Barrett's in Coralville as its 2026 Chef of the Year.
	SIU researchers use emerging technology to find best method for measuring deer population density Researchers at Southern Illinois University are cooperating across departments to find the best method for determining the density of deer populations.
	University of Northern Iowa fundraising campaign ends with more than $340 million The University of Northern Iowa’s fundraising campaign garnered a record amount of donations that put it more than $90 million ahead of its original goal.
	Quad City Animal Welfare Center brings Mobile Vet Van to Rock Island Public Library Quad City Animal Welfare Center (QCAWC) is bringing its Mobile Vet Van to the Rock Island Public Library's Downtown Library, 401 19th Street, on Oct. 21 from 2 – 4 p.m. Dog and cat parents can access low-cost vaccinations and preventive care products at the Vet Van. The Mobile Vet Van is part of QCAWC's [...]
	Roger Craig to attend stadium dedication on Thursday Roger Craig will be in attendance on Thursday for the dedication of the Davenport football stadium in his name.
	Meet the candidates running for Iowa House District 98 Incumbent Democrat Monica Kurth is not seeking another term. Democrat Andrew Fitzgerald, an automation technician, and Republican Nathan Ramker, a small business owner, are vying for the open House District 98 seat.
	QC Pride in Memory creates online Story Map, progresses in documentary Augustana College professor Chris Strunk has created an interactive digital Story Map to document key moments and places of LGTBQ+ history in the QC, gathered by Quad Cities Pride in Memory.
	United Way of Whiteside County receives $10,000 grant The grant will support the growing need of 'Let's Feed our Children,' a summer meal program, which provided nearly 50,000 meals to local kids this past summer.
	Fire temporarily closes Big Apple Family Restaurant, Princeton A Princeton restaurant that has been open for decades is temporarily closed after a fire in the dining room over the weekend. A post on the Princeton Fire Department’s Facebook page said firefighters were called to the Big Apple Family Restaurant, 2136 N. Main Street, for a report of a structure fire on Oct. 10 [...]
	Election complaint: Iowa Sen. Scott Webster lives in Illinois Iowa law requires state senators to have lived in Iowa for at least one year and in their district for at least 60 days before an election.
	Federal agents search Rep. Ilhan Omar's DC home, DOJ says it approved the warrant The Justice Department says the search is part of an "ongoing federal investigation", while Omar calls it "an attempt to target political enemies"
	Football season fuels Iowa’s sports betting activity DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa bettors wagered $290.2 million on sports in September, while licensed casinos and sports wagering operators generated nearly $27.9 million in state taxes, according to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. Sports wagering revenue reached $23.75 million, up 4.58% from September 2025, even as the total amount wagered remained virtually unchanged. [...]
	United Way of Whiteside County receives $10K grant for summer meal program The grant will support Let’s Feed Our Children, which provided nearly 50,000 grab-and-go meals through 17 distribution sites this past summer.
	Partial facade collapse at Muscatine Masonic Temple closes downtown alley A partial facade collapse at the Muscatine Masonic Temple on Thursday evening leaves Muscatine’s downtown Number Three Alley shut down until a structural engineer deems it safe to reopen.
	Three things to know: Oct. 12, 2026 Moline fall leaf vacuuming begins, public hearing for Madison Elementary School roof and an update on your forecast.
	Quad City Rollers end 2026 season at Bout of the Deck-ade Mixer! The Quad City Rollers encourage fans to celebrate the end of the 2026 season at the Bout of the Deck-ade Mixer! The decades-themed roller derby double-header will be at the QCCA Event Center, 2621 4th Avenue in Rock Island on Saturday, Oct. 17 and feature skaters of all experience levels, including several making their roller [...]
	QC Veterans Outreach Center celebrates 10 years The QC Veterans Outreach Center celebrated its 10 year anniversary Saturday.
	Warren County reports its first West Nile Virus case in 2026 Warren County Health Department reported its first human case of West Nile Virus this year.
	Davenport woman arrested after allegedly running over two with vehicle A woman was arrested early Sunday after allegedly running over a man and a woman, reversing again over the woman, in an alley behind a Davenport bar on Saturday night.
	Iowa family turns pumpkin patch tradition into fall destination One Northwest Iowa family is turning a tradition they once shared with their kids into a fall destination for others.
	Iowa woman once given a month to live now training for a marathon Cassie O’Brien is not letting her diagnosis slow her down from running toward her dream.
	American Melody making stop in Muscatine A boat launch and parking lot will close on Tuesday for the arrival of river cruise boat.
	India's opposition parties march to top court as protests over voter lists escalate Opposition parties say revisions to the list of eligible voters favor Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party. Authorities have removed more than 130 million names from the voter roll.
	St. Ambrose student raise over $38,000 for children's hospital St. Ambrose University Dance Marathon broke its previous 2021 record by over $6000 and its Thursday goal by over $14,000.
	Tips for booking the best holiday travel deals, according to KAYAK data One way or return? Book now or wait? Fly on the holiday itself or the weekend before? Those are the questions on travelers’ minds right now.The good news: KAYAK’s latest 2026 Holiday Travel Check-In has the answers. Travel expert KAYAK dug into its search data from 2025 and 2026 to provide actionable tips and tricks on how to get the best-priced flight tickets, when fares historically come down, and which travel dates deliver the best value for this year’s holiday season. Round Trip? Not NecessarilyRethinking the traditional round trip could pay off when it comes to ways to save this holiday season. Piecing together two one-way tickets could cut airfare by as much as 30% internationally and 29% domestically.The biggest potential savings when booking two one-way trips include Simpson Bay, St. Maarten, at 30%, Liberia, Costa Rica, at 23%, and Lima, Peru, at 20%. Domestically, Washington, D.C. leads at 29%, followed by Chicago at 28% and San Diego at 22%.International holiday destinations with the biggest price difference: two one-way flights vs. a round trip KAYAK Domestic holiday destinations with the biggest price difference: two one-way flights vs. a round trip KAYAK When to Book and When to Take Off?Patience could pay off, but it's got a deadline. Despite flight prices being higher this year, they have followed similar patterns to 2025. That makes last year a useful guide, not a crystal ball.For a domestic Thanksgiving trip, airfare has historically hit a low around five weeks before the holiday (hint: get that flight booked before the end of October), then climbs sharply within two weeks of departure. Flying on Thanksgiving Day could save travelers up to 19% domestically and 49% internationally versus departing Nov. 20, currently the priciest day to fly.Christmas travelers have a sweet spot of their own: KAYAK data shows fares historically dip between four and seven weeks before departure (roughly mid-November through early December). Flying the week of Christmas (vs. the week before) can save travelers up to 18% domestically and 34% internationally. That Long-Haul Trip Just Got More BookableIf that far-flung trip is sitting on your travel wish list, it actually might be closer than it looks this holiday season. KAYAK records some of the biggest airfare price drops versus last year for a holiday break can currently be found on long-haul routes, with average fares to destinations across Latin America, Asia and the Caribbean coming in lower than last year. KAYAK Methodology:Unless otherwise noted, holiday travel data is based on flight and hotel searches made on KAYAK between April 1, 2026, and Sept.1, 2026, for travel between Nov. 20, 2026, and Jan. 6, 2027, compared to searches made between April 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2025, for travel between Nov. 21, 2025, and Jan. 7, 2026. All flight prices are average prices for round-trip, economy tickets. All hotel prices are average nightly rates. Prices may vary, and savings cannot be guaranteed. Percentages for changes in pricing are approximate.Thanksgiving data is based on flight and hotel searches made on KAYAK between April 1, 2026, and Sept. 1, 2026, for travel between Nov. 20, 2026, and Nov. 29, 2026, from any U.S. airport, compared to searches made between April 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2025, for travel between Nov. 21, 2025, and Nov. 30, 2025.Christmas data is based on flight and hotel searches made on KAYAK between April 1.2026, and Sept. 1, 2026, for departures/stays between Dec. 17, 2026, and Jan. 6, 2027, from any US airport, compared to searches made between April 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2025, for the travel period between Dec. 18, 2025, and Jan. 7, 2026.This story was produced by KAYAK and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Traffic Alert: Crews phasing in two-way travel on 4th Street in Davenport Starting tomorrow, the city will be phasing in two-way travel on 4th Steet.
	Grant to help United Way Whiteside County fund Let's Feed Our Children program A new grant will help United Way of Whiteside County fund its summer meal program next year. The organization has received a $10,000 grant through the Quad Cities Community Foundation’s 2026 Operations and Program Grants to support Let’s Feed Our Children, United Way’s summer meal program. During summer 2026, the program provided almost 50,000 grab-and-go [...]
	The SaaSpocalypse is real, if you're not a system of record Everyone is arguing about whether AI is killing SaaS. ZoomInfo looked at 229 software categories across its database and found that small companies are dropping point solutions at four times last year's rate. At the recent Salesforce Dreamforce conference, companies discussed what they are doing about it.Roughly $2 trillion of software company value has moved this year on the claim that AI is killing business software.The two sides of the argumentOn the one hand, Salesforce announced that nine of the ten biggest AI companies use Salesforce and Slack, and their spending is up 435% in a year.Compare that to what's filled the feeds for most of 2026: stories like the 55-person firm that ditched its CRM, built its own, and saved about $100,000 a year seemed to crop up every other day.Both sides have valid examples. Here’s what the macro view looks like.ZoomInfo tracks the software that companies use across 229 categories and every company size, from firms with less than 10 staff through to global enterprises. In looking at every tool added or dropped over two years, from mid-2024 to mid-2026, ZoomInfo saw an interesting trend when categorizing software into two groupings:Point solutions: Software that does one job, with fewer dependencies. Live chat, help desk, web forms, marketing automation, review management.Systems of record: Software that holds the data the rest of the business runs on. CRM, HR, payroll, accounting, ERP, reporting.The data showed a serious gap emerging between the two software types, but only at one end of the market.1. A year ago, the two were dropped at similar rates…A year ago, at companies with under 100 staff, point solutions and systems of record were being dropped at close to the same rate.Now, in the space of only one year, point solutions are being dropped four times as often as they were, and the gap between point solutions and systems of record is 24 percentage points.Adds are flat across the group, so the number of buyers hasn't changed. Live chat went from 1,700 drops a quarter to 9,900; help desk went from 700 to 7,200; marketing automation went from 900 to 9,300. ZoomInfo Why? A point solution is the kind of thing a small team can now look to replace in an afternoon. Someone builds a workaround with an AI tool and switches the old one off. These point solutions have no data of their own. What they have is a workflow, which is now a lot easier to replace.2. Point solutions are more resilient at large companiesAt the smallest companies, a third of all activity on point solutions is now companies dropping them. A year ago it was under one in ten. Then it falls at every step up in company size. It halves at 50 staff. It halves again at 1,000. Over 10,000 staff, it's 1 in 100, exactly where it was a year ago.At large companies, the gap between the two kinds of software opened by just two points.What's left to be seen is how much this is going to change. There are two ways to read it. Either large businesses will keep these tools because they are harder to remove once everything is wired into them, or large businesses just move more slowly and the same trend reaches them over the next few months. ZoomInfo Table shows, for all activity on a software (adds and drops), how many were drops. Broken down by company size.The intel from DreamforceThe discussion on the Dreamforce floor lined up almost exactly with the numbers above. Everything at Dreamforce came down to where the data lives and where people go to use it, which splits the market three ways. The systems of record, who hold the data. The front end, which increasingly means Claude and ChatGPT, where people now go to get things done. And the orchestrators, who move work between the two. A point solution is none of these. It's an app with a workflow in it, and it relies on people opening the app.That explains the numbers we're seeing. People go to Claude or ChatGPT instead of multiple apps. The system of record took the workflow: it already had the data, and now it's building agents on top of that. And anything left over, a small team can rebuild in an afternoon. A point solution held no data and did nothing the other three can't. So it gets switched off.Looking around the booths at Dreamforce, almost every one had an agent, and most of them were an AI wrapper on what the product already did. The ones without a system of record underneath were quiet, because their agent did nothing Claude or ChatGPT couldn't.The final wordSo what are companies doing about it? On the floor, the answer was the same everywhere: they overbought, and now they are consolidating around the systems that hold their data, with an agent doing the work that used to need a separate tool.A year ago, point solutions and systems of record were being dropped at nearly the same rate. Now they're 24 points apart. The SaaSpocalypse is real for point solutions at small companies. It isn't happening to large companies yet, and it isn't happening to systems of record.In Q1, the build hype was real. People were saying no SaaS tool was safe. That has calmed down, and what's left are two questions every buyer is asking:Is it worth our time to build and maintain something like this? How time-consuming is the existing software to replace? A lot of tools don't have a good answer to either.This story was produced by ZoomInfo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The benefits of managed IT services for legal firms Data security is critical in today’s digital world, especially for law firms that handle sensitive client information. A lack of cybersecurity efforts can lead to data breaches, resulting in financial losses, reputational damage and even safety risks for you and your clients. However, as lawyers, your expertise lies in the law, not IT systems. Managed IT services can bridge the knowledge and skill gap by offering advanced technologies, 24/7 monitoring services, compliance solutions and support. Frontline Managed Services explains the details in this article.What Security Threats Target Legal Practices? Frontline Managed Services Your law firm is susceptible to social engineering attacks as long as you work with sensitive and valuable information. Social engineering attacks involve psychologically manipulating people into providing confidential information by performing specific actions. Scammers may aim to disrupt your operations, gain unauthorized access or commit fraud. With technological advancements, the techniques involved in these threats are also evolving.In 2024, 42% of organizations reported experiencing social engineering attacks. Some attacks you need to be mindful of include:Phishing scams: Scammers can use phishing scams through email or text messages to access your or your clients’ email, bank or other accounts, including your passwords. They can sell this information to other scammers or steal your identity, which can cause financial losses and reputational damage. Spear phishing can be especially dangerous, as it is a targeted and researched form of attack. It involves impersonating contacts you may know through fake accounts. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), scammers perform thousands of phishing attacks daily, which are often successful.Doxing: Doxing involves gathering personally identifiable information, then releasing it publicly for malicious purposes. This can cause identity theft, stalking, public humiliation or harassment. This attack can also impact you or your clients’ families and neighbors.Ransomware attacks: Ransomware attacks use malware to encrypt files on your device. This encryption makes your files and systems unusable, which impacts your business operations. Scammers demand ransom in exchange for decryption. They may threaten to sell or leak your data. In 2025, 72% of organizations reported an increase in cyber risks, with ransomware as their top concern. Apart from digital attacks, you should also be wary of physical ones. For instance, a scammer may impersonate an IT support representative in person, before inserting a device into your computer to steal sensitive information. They then use this information to extort you or your clients.Why Cybersecurity Is Critical for Law FirmsManaging cyber threats and preventing data breaches is part of your professional responsibility as lawyers. You handle sensitive information daily, whether through document collaboration, e-signing contracts, legal research or workflow automation. These activities make you an attractive target for hackers. Taking safety precautions is especially essential for a remote and hybrid workforce. The American Bar Association (ABA)’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct indicate you should take reasonable steps to protect client information. Specific model rules that apply to cybersecurity include: Competence: As lawyers, you must be competent enough to provide client representation. You need to have the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness and preparation that’s reasonably necessary. This competence encompasses the ability to handle technology and manage client information that is susceptible to cybersecurity threats.Safeguarding property: You must properly safeguard client properties you possess, including accounts you manage on their behalf. For instance, if you’re managing their trust accounts, you need to take necessary steps to protect them. Communication: You must inform clients of circumstances that impact their decisions regarding your representation. You may explain the security measures you have in place that protect client information. You’d also need to notify them of any data breach that involved their information.Confidentiality of information: You must not reveal information regarding client representation, unless the client offered their consent, your contract impliedly authorized the disclosure to let you perform your work, or if you believe that revealing the information is necessary. This confidentiality goes beyond confidential communications and privileged information. It requires you to make reasonable efforts to protect all information regarding your client representation. States may also have their own professional conduct rules, often based on these model rules. As law professionals, you must stay on top of these data protection requirements. If you’re an international law firm, you must also understand privacy laws in other countries. Frontline Managed Services How Do Managed IT Services Protect Client Data?Managed IT services can help protect your client data through the services they offer, which can include:1. Strong Cybersecurity FeaturesManaged IT services provide strong data protection through advanced cybersecurity features. They offer security assessments to identify your vulnerabilities and highlight areas for improvement. They also monitor your systems 24/7, detecting and responding to issues immediately before the damage escalates. Since scammers don’t function on a regular schedule, continuous monitoring is essential. Managed IT teams use technology that detects patterns of potential attacks from real-time data. Once they identify unusual activity in your system, automated alerts can inform responsible teams of potential breaches. Analytics also examines past incidents to foresee future vulnerabilities. IT teams can then refine security protocols as needed.2. Support for Regulatory ComplianceManaged IT services can help you comply with regulations for handling sensitive information, thus avoiding noncompliance penalties. They also provide recovery solutions in the event of a data breach. For instance, you may be handling medical records due to personal injury or medical malpractice cases. In this case, you must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA requires you to protect people’s identifiable health information, whether electronically, orally or on paper, which includes:Past, present or future mental or physical health conditions.Past, present or future health care payments.Health care provisions.If your law firm engages in financial activities, such as financial advisory, tax preparation or real estate services, the FTC Safeguards Rule also requires you to keep customer information secure. After a data breach, the FTC suggests that you:Secure your systems and fix vulnerabilities immediately.Mobilize a response team to prevent further data loss.Take all affected equipment offline.Determine the legal requirements, including state-specific regulations, for data breach notifications. HIPAA’s Breach Notification Rule requires you to notify affected individuals within 60 days. A resolution agreement may also apply, where you must perform specific obligations and report to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for about three years. The HHS will monitor your compliance within this period. Managed IT services can help you comply with the reporting requirements.3. Reliable Backup and Recovery SolutionsAdhering to regulations involves adopting recovery solutions. However, recovery solutions are only effective with sufficient backups. Managed IT services regularly back up your files and systems to ensure business continuity and minimize downtime. These services periodically create and update copies of your files and store them in remote locations or in cloud storage. IT services encrypt and regularly test these backups, ensuring they’re free from data corruption. With backups in place, recovery solutions can use the copies to reestablish access to your files, applications, data or other resources. Without these systems, retrieving lost data can take hours or days, impeding business operations. These consequences can be severe, especially if they involve lost, altered or compromised evidence in legal cases.4. Efficient and Cost-Effective IT SupportManaged IT service providers know about the latest threats and how to protect your data from them. Engaging managed IT services can be more cost-effective than building an in-house team. You’ll also avoid the costs of investing in your own equipment.Some managed IT services leverage automation and artificial intelligence (AI). For instance, a provider may use an AI-powered service desk to make workflow efficient and reduce resolution periods. They can also provide support for your in-house teams, if you have any. They can offer employee training and share best practices in handling cybersecurity risks. The cost of lost time and resources due to potential data breaches can be substantial. Long-term costs also include reputational damage and strained attorney-client relationships. With this in mind, investing in a managed IT service provider can be worth it. They can fill the skill gap in your company without increasing your capital expenses.5. Scalable IT SolutionsSmall to medium-sized law firms can especially benefit from outsourcing IT management. You can limit the services to what you need, whether they include cybersecurity monitoring, compliance support or cloud management services. Growing and established firms also benefit from tailored services, no matter the complexity of their infrastructure. Managed IT services have the capacity to scale:Service: You might have fluctuating demand or upcoming growth initiatives. Service providers can scale their services, adding or reducing resources and support based on your needs.Software: Platforms, applications and systems must be able to handle your growing datasets and transactions without impacting functionality and performance. Managed IT service providers can deliver a streamlined experience thanks to their advanced technologies.Infrastructure: The larger your firm, the more you may need to invest in servers, storage and networking equipment. Increasing workloads and demands require more resources. With managed IT services, accessing this infrastructure becomes easier. You won’t even need to allocate physical locations to make room for this infrastructure.How to Select the Right Service ProviderSome managed IT services are better than others. You might even encounter malicious actors posing as IT experts. To ensure you’re selecting a trusted and reliable provider, look for: Proven track record: Look for a history of success and positive client feedback. If you need the provider to support your growth initiatives, do they have the necessary expertise? How many clients have they worked with, and what is the retention rate? Be wary of in-person social engineering tactics, where malicious actors ask for access to your computers. It’s safer to work with established companies with decades of experience.Certifications: Certifications ensure providers have the training and skills necessary to protect your sensitive information. The staff should also be certified depending on their focus area, whether it’s cyber defense, cloud security or digital forensics. Certifications indicate whether professionals, such as an accounting or auditing firm, have reviewed the provider’s processes to ensure they operate effectively. As a company, a provider can have different certifications, such as ISO/IEC 27001 and Service Organization Control (SOC) 2 certification.Comprehensive and personalized services: Each law firm has its own needs and challenges. One firm might handle medical cases, while another focuses on tax law. Does the provider show valuable insights and possess a deep understanding of your industry? What is included in the managed IT support services? A tailored solution is essential in achieving your long-term goals.Advanced technological solutions: Although many IT services leverage advanced technology, some use better technologies than others. How can the provider’s technology scale with your business? Will they be able to adapt to your workload? Do they have proprietary technology that makes workflow more efficient?Quality and level of support: Support schedule is important in case of data breaches. Will you be able to contact them 24/7 throughout the year? Do they have a clear process in case of incidents? How can they help you comply with regulations, especially regarding incidents?Protect Your Law Firm Through Managed IT ServicesAs law professionals, it’s your responsibility to ensure your clients’ information is well-protected. Managed IT services can play a significant role, as they can help you navigate the increasing cyber risks that come with advancing technology. These services can also protect you and your company, ensuring malicious actors can’t steal your information and identity. Given the consequences of data breaches, investing in managed IT services can be worth the cost. Depending on the provider, covered services can include:Strong cybersecurity features.Support for regulatory compliance.Backup and recovery solutions.Expert training.Scalable growth solutions.Consider working with those who have extensive industry expertise. Certifications and a proven track record also show if you’re looking at a trusted company. Tailored professional services ensure you’re getting the solutions you need. This story was produced by Frontline Managed Services and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Public art has brought the river town of Clinton together Two best friends have been working to make Clinton a destination and create connection in their community through art — from colorful murals to giant wooden trolls.
	Monmouth home uninhabitable after fire A Monmouth home is uninhabitable after a fire Sunday afternoon at the 600 block of South 4th Street. No injuries were reported, and the cause is under investigation.
	Monmouth house fire leaves residence uninhabitable Fire crews responded to a house fire in the 600 block of South 4th Street Sunday afternoon. No injuries were reported.
	How a smarter home can help families reclaim their time Sorry, but your browser does not support the video tag. var bptVideoPlayer = document.getElementById("bptVideoPlayer"); if (bptVideoPlayer) { var cssText = "width: 100%;"; cssText += " background: url('" + bptVideoPlayer.getAttribute("poster") + "');"; cssText += " -webkit-background-size: cover;"; cssText += " -moz-background-size: cover;"; cssText += " -o-background-size: cover;"; cssText += " background-size: cover;"; bptVideoPlayer.style.cssText = cssText; var bptVideoPlayerContainer = document.getElementById("bptVideoPlayerContainer"); if (bptVideoPlayerContainer) { setTimeout(function () { bptVideoPlayerContainer.style.cssText = "display: block; position: relative; margin-bottom: 10px;"; var isIE = navigator.userAgent.match(/ MSIE(([0 - 9] +)(\.[0 - 9] +) ?) /); var isEdge = navigator.userAgent.indexOf("Edge") > -1 \|\| navigator.userAgent.indexOf("Trident") > -1; if (isIE \|\| isEdge) { fixVideoPoster(); } }, 1000); } var bptVideoPlayButton = document.getElementById("bptVideoPlayButton"); if (bptVideoPlayButton) { bptVideoPlayButton.addEventListener("click", function () { bptVideoPlayer.play(); }, false); bptVideoPlayer.addEventListener("play", function () { bptVideoPlayButton.style.cssText = "display: none;"; }, false); } var mainImage = document.getElementById("mainImageImgContainer_sm"); if (mainImage) { mainImage.style.cssText = "display: none;"; } var mainImage = document.getElementById("photo-noresize"); if (mainImage) { mainImage.style.cssText = "display: none;"; } var assetGallery = document.getElementsByClassName("asset_gallery")[0]; if (assetGallery) { assetGallery.style.cssText = "display: none;"; } var assetGallery = document.getElementsByClassName("trb_article_leadart")[0]; if (assetGallery) { assetGallery.style.cssText = "display: none;"; } var assetGallery = document.querySelectorAll("[src='https://d372qxeqh8y72i.cloudfront.net/b5a7d2c3-39d4-4e11-b1c3-24c7e6990369_web.jpg']")[0]; if (assetGallery) { assetGallery.style.cssText = "display: none;"; } } function fixVideoPoster() { var videoPlayer = document.getElementById("bptVideoPlayer"); var videoPoster = document.getElementById("bptVideoPoster"); fixVideoPosterPosition(videoPlayer, videoPoster, true); window.onresize = function() { fixVideoPosterPosition(videoPlayer, videoPoster); }; videoPoster.onclick = function() { videoPlayer.play(); videoPoster.style.display = "none"; }; videoPlayer.onplay = function() { videoPoster.style.display = "none"; }; } function fixVideoPosterPosition(videoPlayer, videoPoster, display) { setTimeout(function () { var videoPosition = videoPlayer.getBoundingClientRect(); videoPoster.style.position = "absolute"; videoPoster.style.top = "0"; videoPoster.style.left = "0"; videoPoster.style.width = videoPlayer.offsetWidth + "px"; videoPoster.style.height = (videoPlayer.offsetHeight + 20) + "px"; if (display) { videoPoster.style.display = "inline"; } }, 1010); } (BPT) - It's a Thursday evening at home, and all you want to do is relax with your family. However, the mental list of possible to-dos stops you from being fully present with your loved ones. Questions like, "Which clothes need washing?" "Is the bedroom too warm?" "What can everyone agree to watch?" "Did that jacket get cleaned in time for tomorrow?" crowd your mind and interrupt your pleasant quality time.None of these questions on their own are insurmountable, but the collective mental load of remembering, deciding and anticipating what comes next can be draining and distracting, stealing time from what really matters. In fact, according to a survey commissioned by LG Electronics, on average, people experience 27 interruptions during their waking hours that add to their mental load and spend the equivalent of 87 days a year burdened by them.The good news is that household technology has advanced to the point that it can help lighten the load and give you your time, energy and attention back. Check out these smart, tech-enabled household appliances that can quietly handle routine chores, so you can spend less time managing your life and more time living it with those you care about most.Let the laundry unit make a few decisionsMaking decision after decision is mentally taxing, especially when it comes to laundry. But what if you could hand over the responsibility of choosing settings for every single load of clothing to someone — or something — else?With the LG AI WashTower, you won't have to worry about laundry guesswork. The washer/dryer combo uses AI technology to detect the optimal wash and dry settings for your clothing. All you have to do is put the clothes in, switch the load from the washer to the dryer, and sit down to watch a favorite show or movie with the kids.Spend less time searching, more time watchingSpeaking of TV watching, it's incredible how much time it can take to find exactly what you want to watch when there are so many options. Whether you're choosing entertainment for yourself or trying to get everyone to agree on what to watch, it's the endless options that can make even downtime feel like work.With the LG OLED evo AI TV lineup, you can spend less time scrolling and more time watching. Powered by Google Gemini and LG's Smart TV platform with webOS 25, the TVs deliver personalized recommendations on a customized screen, suggest what to watch next, and adjust picture and sound to match individual preferences. Now you can sit back, scroll through a curated list and get down to business catching up on the latest episode or the newest film release.Refresh what you wear without another washPractically everyone has a pile of clothing that is worn but not quite ready for the wash. Instead of wondering how soon you'll need to wash or touch it up before a big presentation or school picture day, you can simplify the routine with the LG Styler.This intelligent steam closet sanitizes, refreshes and deodorizes your favorite garments and hard-to-wash items. Its touchscreen display remembers and prioritizes the most frequently used cycles and options. All you need to do is hang it, turn the closet on and rest easy knowing your favorite jacket will be ready when you need it.Make the mental clutter fade awayIf you could take back your mental energy and task-management time, what would you do with it? That question is at the heart of LG's Life's Good campaign. Its line of AI and smart-tech products helps free up your mind so you can make room for a leisurely dinner, a fun family movie night, a spontaneous evening walk or simply a quiet evening. To learn more about the campaign, visit LG.com/LifesGood.Survey methodology: Fieldwork: Conducted April 24–28, 2026 via Focaldata. Countries: US, UK and Australia. Age: 18–64. Sample size: 3,165 respondents (a minimum of 1,000 per market), nationally representative by age, gender and regionNote: Survey results reflect respondents' perceptions and do not constitute clinical or scientific evidence of health benefits.
	10 best cities to rent rather than own a house in 2026 Affordability issues can be found across goods and services, and Americans have been hit especially hard with rising housing prices in recent years. According to the Urban Institute, the average sales price for a home is $486,000 in the U.S., while the average monthly rent is $1,890. But the real story behind those numbers depends on where you live, how much you make, and how the cost of buying compares to renting.With that in mind, TheZebra.com looked at the 50 most populous American cities to find which are better for renting than buying. The researchers analyzed three main data points:Price-to-rent ratio: This takes the median home value and divides it by the median annualized rent for a two-bedroom home. The higher the ratio, the more cost-effective it is to rent than to buy.Price of rent compared to median income: This identifies cities where rent accounts for a lower portion of income, making it easier to afford other expenses. Home price-to-income ratio: This reveals the cities where home prices are highest relative to income.Read on to discover the top cities for affordable renting and see if you recognize your own hometown or other favorite places.1. Salt Lake CitySalt Lake City comes in as the top city in which to rent, largely due to its high price-to-rent ratio. That means home prices are significantly higher than rent prices, with median sales at $601,000. Plus, the average annual rent of $17,244 is low compared to the city's median household income of $104,059.Salt Lake City by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 34.86Price of rent compared to median income: 16.57%Home price to income ratio: 7.72. DenverDenver's climbing home prices have also soared past rental rates. The median home price is over $668,000, which is fairly high compared to the city's $112,231 median income. Rent, on the other hand, is more affordable and the average price accounts for just under 17% of income. Denver by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 35.35Price of rent compared to median income: 16.89%Home price to income ratio: 5.93. Austin, TexasAustin stands out on the list with one of the lowest rental rates compared to income. Annualized rent takes up just over 16% of the median household income, which is $101,583. That six-figure salary doesn't go as far when buying a place, since the median sales price is $485,400.Austin by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 29.66Price of rent compared to median income: 16.11%Home price to income ratio: 5.7 4. Portland, OregonPortland's price-to-rent ratio is one of the highest on the list, emphasizing the affordability of rental prices compared to home sales. Rent averages $18,600 per year, while the median home sales price is over $611,000. Plus, the home price-to-income ratio is fairly high at 6.2.Portland by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 32.85Price of rent compared to median income: 17.84%Home price to income ratio: 6.25. Las VegasThe price-to-rent ratio in Las Vegas reveals a higher home-buying cost compared to renting. The median home price is just over $486,000, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is just over $16,000 annually.Las Vegas by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 30.02Price of rent compared to median income: 19.32%Home price to income ratio: 5.86. Raleigh, North CarolinaRaleigh is a great place for renting because the annualized average rent of $17,268 only accounts for about 16% of the median household income ($107,446). The price-to-rent ratio of 27% is also on the higher end, indicating a larger gap between home prices ($466,700) and rental rates. Raleigh by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 27.03Price of rent compared to median income: 16.07%Home price to income ratio: 57. Phoenix (tied)The price-to-rent ratio in Phoenix is nearly 29%, thanks to a high home sales price of $477,700 relative to annual rent prices of $16,488. The rent-to-income ratio in the city is also quite competitive at 17.57%.Phoenix by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 28.97Price of rent compared to median income: 17.57%Home price to income ratio: 5.27. San Jose, California (tied)San Jose ties with Phoenix and appears on the list largely because of the stark difference between housing prices and rental rates. The median home sales price is nearly $2.1 million, compared to an annualized rental rate of just under $50,000. Unsurprisingly, the city's home price-to-income ratio is also one of the highest, making it more appealing to rent for many residents.San Jose by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 41.11Price of rent compared to median income: 28.42%Home price to income ratio: 11 9. Columbus, OhioColumbus has one of the lowest home prices in the top 10 ($363,100), but rental prices are even lower, averaging $12,624 per year. That helps Columbus rank in the number one spot when it comes to comparing rent to median income, which is just 14.46%. Columbus by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 28.76Price of rent compared to median income: 14.46%Home price to income ratio: 3.910. Richmond, VirginiaRichmond home prices have jumped to a median of more than $460,000, widening the gap between buying and renting. The average rental price for a year is $16,320. That is a little pricey compared to income, however, accounting for just under 20% of annual earnings. Richmond by the numbersPrice-to-rent ratio: 28.21Price of rent compared to median income: 19.51%Home price to income ratio: 5.410 Cities Where It's Better to BuyHere are ten cities where home prices may be more affordable than rental prices. Although these aren't necessarily budget locations, the numbers make buying more cost-effective than renting at current prices.Birmingham, AlabamaClevelandDetroitBuffalo, New YorkIndianapolisSt. LouisPhiladelphiaDallas and Providence, Rhode Island (tied)New York CityInsurance Tips the Scales, TooRent vs. buy math often stops at the mortgage payment, but that's only part of the bigger picture when it comes to buying a home. According to The Zebra's 2026 State of Insurance report, the average homeowner now pays $2,966 a year for home insurance, a cost that's trending upward alongside rising building material costs and severe weather risk.Notably, none of the cities from the list above land among the priciest states for home insurance (a list topped by Florida, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Louisiana and Nebraska). That's one more reason these markets tend to favor buyers: Less disaster exposure generally means less risk of insurance eating into the savings a lower home price already offers. MethodologyThe Zebra used three data points to analyze the top 50 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) by population related to rental price, home prices, and income. Price-to-rent ratio (National Association of Realtors and Rent.com)Price of rent compared to median income: (Census Bureau and Rent.com)Home price to income ratio: (ConstructionCoverage.com)This story was produced by TheZebra.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	In-house vs. agency marketing for PE-backed multibrand companies In-house vs. agency marketing for PE-backed multi-brand companies comes down to three real options: an in-house team, one centralized agency, or multiple specialist agencies. The model depends on the expertise required, the number of brands and markets, how much local flexibility each brand needs, execution speed, reporting complexity, and how much centralized oversight leadership wants, WebFX reports. WebFX Many companies eventually land somewhere between these three, but the three structures are what actually determine where capabilities should live. Framing this as in-house vs. agency marketing alone misses the real question, which is which model gives the organization the right balance of control, expertise, speed, and visibility across the portfolio, beyond which one can simply execute marketing.Model 1: Build marketing in-houseAn in-house model means hiring internal specialists to handle strategy, SEO, paid media, content, CRO, email, analytics, and marketing operations. Some companies structure this as one centralized team supporting multiple brands. Others build separate marketing teams inside each portfolio company.Advantages of in-house marketingDeep business knowledge. Internal teams build a strong understanding of the products, customers, sales process, and brand history over time.Direct control. Leadership manages priorities, hiring, budget, and process directly, without a vendor relationship in between.Institutional knowledge stays inside the business. What the team learns accumulates internally instead of leaving with an external partner.Challenges of in-house marketing for multi-brand companiesBuilding every specialization internally is expensive. A real digital marketing program needs expertise across SEO, PPC, AI search, CRO, analytics, email, creative, and data attribution. One generalist marketer isn’t equivalent to that whole function.Hiring may not keep pace with acquisition growth. If the platform adds a third brand, a fifth brand, or 30 new locations, the internal team needs to expand just as fast, which takes months most PE timelines don’t have.Brand-level teams can recreate the exact silos a platform is trying to avoid. One portfolio company runs its own reporting system, another uses a different KPI structure, and a third has different tools entirely. Leadership ends up with several internal teams and still no centralized visibility.Expertise becomes a bottleneck. If the one SEO lead or paid-media specialist leaves, that capability can disappear with them.Model 2: Use one centralized marketing agencyIn this model, one agency supports multiple portfolio companies, brands, and locations, while leadership keeps centralized oversight over performance.Advantages of a single-agency modelCentralized accountability. Leadership knows who owns marketing performance, rather than coordinating several vendors to find out.Shared expertise without hiring each capability internally. One partner can provide SEO, PPC, content, CRO, analytics, and AI search specialists without the company building each function from scratch.Faster cross-brand learning. A strategy that works for one brand can transfer to the next one, instead of getting rediscovered independently. The fifth acquisition shouldn’t require relearning what the first four already taught the organization.Centralized technology and reporting. One partner can help create consistent KPI definitions, attribution, and CRM integration across brands, giving leadership one place to compare company, brand, location, and channel performance against revenue.Easier acquisition onboarding. A new company can plug into an existing reporting structure and channel playbook instead of starting over.Challenges of a single-agency modelThe agency needs enough actual depth. A centralized agency that can’t support specialized channels, different industries, or complex data becomes the bottleneck it was supposed to solve.Centralization can slide into one-size-fits-all. The agency needs to standardize infrastructure without standardizing every brand’s strategy.Greater dependency on one partner. If the relationship breaks down, more of the organization’s marketing capability is affected at once than it would be with a single vendor swap.The strongest single-agency model provides centralized infrastructure, specialized expertise, and brand-level flexibility together, avoiding one strategy copied across every company.Model 3: Use multiple marketing agenciesDifferent agencies can split responsibility by brand, by channel, by market, or by specialty, with each partner focused on a narrower slice of the portfolio.Advantages of a multi-agency modelAccess to specialized expertise. A brand can choose the agency with the deepest experience in its specific vertical, channel, or local market.Flexibility. Individual brands choose partners based on their own needs rather than a portfolio-wide default.Strong incumbent relationships can stay intact. An acquisition isn’t automatically a reason to replace an agency that’s already producing results for that brand.Challenges of a multi-agency modelReporting becomes fragmented fast. One agency reports leads, another reports traffic, a third reports ROAS, and a fourth brand uses entirely different attribution. Leadership can’t meaningfully compare performance across any of it.No one owns the full customer journey. One agency manages SEO, another manages paid, the internal team runs email, and sales owns the CRM. The result is a lot of owners and no single owner of revenue performance.Technology gets duplicated. Each agency can bring its own reporting software, call tracking, and dashboards, creating tool sprawl across the portfolio.Cross-brand learning slows down. An insight one agency discovers may never reach another agency, another brand, or another location.Leadership becomes the integrator. Someone internally has to coordinate agencies, reconcile reporting, resolve overlap, and align priorities across every vendor relationship, which is real coordination work that doesn’t show up in any single retainer.A multi-agency model can produce excellent execution inside individual silos while quietly increasing the coordination cost of the system as a whole.In-house vs. single agency vs. multi-agency: Side-by-side comparisonTen factors matter most for a PE-backed multi-brand company, and they don’t all point the same direction. WebFX No model wins across every row. The single agency vs. multiple agencies comparison in particular comes down to how much coordination cost the organization is willing to trade for specialized depth. Use this table to identify which tradeoffs matter most against the company’s actual value-creation plan, rather than to find a universal answer.What each model actually costsThe honest comparison goes beyond salary against agency retainer, toward total cost of ownership: People, plus agencies, plus technology, plus media, plus the internal coordination time each model requires.An in-house team’s real cost includes salaries, benefits, recruiting, management time, software, training, and turnover, beyond a base salary figure. A single agency’s cost includes the retainer and media spend, but can require less internal management overhead since one partner owns more of the execution. A multi-agency model adds multiple retainers, duplicate technology, and the internal coordination and reporting reconciliation someone has to own across every vendor.The cheapest model on paper may not be the cheapest model in practice once coordination time and duplicate tools get counted.Scaling through acquisitionsWhat happens when the next acquisition closesAn in-house team has to audit the new brand’s marketing, integrate its reporting, and take on execution, all while the rest of the portfolio keeps running. Internal capacity is usually the real constraint here, more than willingness.A single agency can often bring a new acquisition into an existing reporting framework, technology layer, and specialist team, which usually means a shorter ramp than building that infrastructure from nothing.A multi-agency model forces a decision every time: Keep the incumbent, replace them, or add another vendor, and figure out how their reporting integrates with everyone else’s. Each acquisition can add another layer of vendor complexity rather than plugging into one that already exists.The strongest marketing operating model gets easier to scale as acquisitions increase, instead of more complicated.Should you replace the agencies you inherit?Not automatically. A simple framework works better than a binary keep-or-fire decision:Keep: The current agency performs well and aligns with the future strategy.Expand: The agency has capabilities worth scaling further.Supplement: Strong in some areas, but missing specific capabilities elsewhere.Consolidate: Moving the work to a centralized partner outweighs the transition risk.Replace: Performance, transparency, expertise, or scalability doesn’t hold up.Agency consolidation should be driven by performance and operating leverage, above organizational tidiness.That same evaluation carries into a broader post-acquisition marketing integration, where inherited agencies, technology, reporting, and assets all need to be assessed before consolidation decisions are made.What to centralize regardless of which model you chooseEven when execution stays decentralized, a few things benefit from centralizing no matter which model the company picks: KPI definitions, revenue attribution methodology, marketing reporting, CRM and data standards, brand governance, and agency evaluation.Centralized measurement also makes it easier to allocate marketing budget across brands and locations using comparable performance, revenue, and capacity data, rather than treating every market the same.Keep these flexible instead: Channel mix, creative, messaging, local search, budget allocation by market, and brand-specific content.Centralize the operating system while leaving individual marketing decisions inside it flexible. That principle holds whether the company ends up in-house, on one agency, or spread across several, and it’s really the centralized vs. decentralized marketing question underneath the whole decision.Choose the right marketing modelEvaluate six dimensions before deciding: complexity (how many brands, locations, markets, and CRMs), capability (what expertise already exists and where the gaps are), speed (how fast the business needs to grow or integrate acquisitions), control (how much ownership leadership wants internally), visibility (can leadership currently compare brands, channels, and revenue), and scale (will this model still work after 10 acquisitions or 100 locations). Underneath all six is really one centralized vs. decentralized marketing question: How much should live in one place, and how much should stay local.Use these questions to see which model the answers point toward: WebFX This isn’t a quiz where one checkmark decides the answer. Use it to see where the strongest fit actually lies once every dimension is weighed together.What about a hybrid model?Many PE-backed organizations may eventually land on some version of a hybrid. A common split: The internal team owns brand strategy, sales alignment, and budget decisions. A central agency owns SEO, PPC, CRO, analytics, and technology.Specialist partners cover PR, niche creative, or local market needs the central agency doesn’t.Hybrid works well when ownership is explicit. It breaks down when responsibilities overlap, KPIs differ by team, vendors don’t share data, and nobody owns overall performance. If you’re building a hybrid, treat it as a deliberate combination of the three models above, rather than a way to avoid choosing.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	AWD vs. 4WD: What's the difference? Here’s everything you need to know about all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, including what makes them different, how each one handles snow and off-road conditions, and exactly which one you should choose. Key Takeaways: What AWD Is Best At AWD works automatically to balance traction and fuel economy, making it ideal for paved roads and light snow or dirt. What 4WD Is Designed For 4WD splits power evenly to all wheels using a transfer case, excelling in off-road driving, deep snow, and towing. AWD vs. 4WD in Daily Driving AWD is easier to use and more efficient for everyday driving, while 4WD should be used mainly at low speeds. How to Choose the Right System Choose AWD for mostly on-road driving and winter weather; choose 4WD for heavy off-roading or frequent towing. If you live somewhere with a lot of rain or snow, or if you want to drive off-road, you’re probably considering an all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD or 4x4) vehicle. Both have an advantage over two-wheel drive vehicles in wintry conditions or on dirt because both send power from the engine to all four wheels. You may even see both terms used interchangeably, but there are important distinctions you need to understand before you buy a 4WD or AWD vehicle. Here’s how AWD and 4WD actually work—and a clear decision guide from CarMax to help you pick the right one. What is AWD?Most all-wheel drive (AWD) systems let your vehicle automatically decide when to drive all four wheels. They’re adaptable, balancing fuel economy and traction without the driver having to think about it. AWD highlightsThinks for itself, so you can focus on driving Balances fuel economy and extra traction Designed for paved roads but can handle some light-duty off-roading Available on a wide selection of cars, crossovers, and SUVs How does all-wheel drive work?You’ll find all-wheel drive on a wide selection of cars and SUVs. All-wheel drive connects your vehicle's engines to the front and rear wheels, but most AWD cars and SUVs can change how much power goes to the front or back wheels, and can even disconnect power from one axle entirely. This is called “part-time all-wheel drive,” and it’s the most common type of AWD. Most mainstream small and medium SUVs, like the Honda CR-V and Toyota Highlander, primarily send power to their front wheels. When they’re equipped with AWD, they use sensors to detect whether the front wheels are slipping and engage all-wheel drive to compensate. All you have to do is drive, and let the car handle the rest. This makes life easy for the driver and lets the vehicle run more efficiently. Check out this list of AWD cars with great mpg for the most efficient AWD options. Because part-time AWD systems still send most of their power to the front wheels, they’re limited in how much they can help in extreme conditions. Other types of all-wheel driveSome vehicles use “full-time all-wheel drive.” Just like the name suggests, full-time AWD always sends power to both the front and rear wheels. While these systems never turn off, they can still vary how much power goes to the front or rear if the wheels start to slip. The advantage of full-time AWD is that there’s no delay in shifting power when you need it, and the power balance is more even than in most part-time AWD vehicles. The trade-off is lower fuel efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, AWD and 4WD systems typically reduce fuel economy by 1-2 mpg compared to two-wheel drive versions of the same vehicle. The same DOE data shows that AWD and 4WD combined accounted for 59% of new light-duty vehicles produced in 2022, making all-wheel drive the most common drivetrain choice in the U.S. Some AWD hybrid cars operate like traditional AWD vehicles, while some use a dedicated electric motor to drive the rear wheels. You’ll also find performance cars and luxury cars that use AWD, along with modern driver assistance features, to improve handling around corners rather than for inclement weather. What is 4WD?Most four-wheel drive (4WD or 4x4) vehicles link the front and rear wheels together using a transfer case, splitting power evenly between them. They’re tough, but more limited in their usefulness on paved roads. 4WD highlightsTough, built to handle more extreme conditions Extra useful when driving off-road Found on vehicles with higher towing capacities Mostly available on larger SUVs and trucks How 4WD worksKey to how a 4x4 works is a piece of equipment called a transfer case. This connects the vehicle's front and rear wheels, splitting the engine’s power evenly between them and making both axles turn at the same speed. That gives 4WD vehicles an advantage off-road or when getting out of a slippery spot, where they can power through even if multiple wheels lose traction. Most 4WD vehicles have a switch that lets you toggle between driving all four wheels or just two (2WD). This matters: as Ford, Toyota, and other manufacturers note in their owner’s manuals, driving in 4WD mode on dry pavement at highway speeds can cause premature drivetrain wear or vehicle damage. Check your owner’s manual, but most manufacturers recommend using 4WD only in slippery conditions, at low speeds, or off-road. Some newer 4WD trucks have an automatic mode that lets the vehicle decide when to switch. But even these systems will only kick in at lower speeds. Other types of 4WDFull-time 4WD is an always-on system that works on-road and at any speed, because it has additional components that let the front and rear wheels vary their speed independently. That makes it more useful on pavement, but it impacts overall fuel efficiency. Trucks and other 4x4s built for serious off-road use often come with additional equipment to keep all four wheels turning in the toughest conditions. These include locking differentials and low-range transfer cases, which are manually controlled by the driver and only meant for off-road use. AWD vs. 4WD: Side-by-side comparison CarMax Is AWD or 4WD better for you?Here’s how to decide: Choose AWD if you: Drive mostly on paved roads Live somewhere with regular snow that gets plowed Want a car, crossover, or mid-size SUV Prefer a system that manages itself without driver input Choose 4WD if you: Regularly drive off-road (mud, rocks, steep inclines) Need to tow heavy trailers or haul large loads Drive in deep snow or on unplowed rural roads Want a larger truck or full-size SUV Keep in mind that AWD typically adds $1,500 or more to a vehicle’s purchase price, according to Cars.com. What is the difference between AWD and 4WD?Both AWD and 4WD send power from your engine to all four wheels to maximize traction. AWD uses a variable connection that your vehicle adjusts on the fly, at any speed, to shift power where it’s needed. 4WD connects your front and rear wheels through a transfer case that splits power evenly, and it's designed for lower speeds and challenging terrain.Many variants blur the line between AWD and 4WD, and you’ll often see car manufacturers using the terms interchangeably. Some advanced 4x4s have extra equipment that makes them behave more like AWD systems, while some AWD vehicles offer terrain-specific driving modes that give them capability closer to a 4x4.In general, AWD is for on-road driving and light off-road use. Four-wheel drive is for serious off-road conditions and for helping bigger, heavier vehicles handle tough situations. Which is better in snow, AWD or 4WD?According to Michelin, Bridgestone, and other leading tire manufacturers, having the right winter or snow tires is the single most important factor for driving in snow. If you’ve got the right tires, AWD vehicles are perfectly capable of handling snow.If you live where roads are regularly plowed and gritted, AWD gives you more flexibility than 4WD. If roads aren’t plowed and snow gets deep, AWD vehicles without enough ground clearance will struggle.4WD is ideal for pulling away from a slippery spot, driving at lower speeds on snow-covered roads, or tackling deeper snow where the added ground clearance on many 4x4s helps.Which is better off-road, AWD or 4WD?4WD vehicles, especially those fitted with a low-range transfer case and locking differentials, really shine off-road. You should choose a 4WD vehicle if you want to tackle mud, rocks, and steep inclines with confidence. Some AWD cars offer selectable terrain modes and off-road hardware, but most AWD cars and SUVs are built primarily for pavement. Having the right tires matters here, too: You’re more likely to find off-road-ready tires installed from the factory on a 4x4 than on an AWD vehicle. Popular AWD vehiclesBased on CarMax sales data, here are the most popular AWD vehicles. Nissan Rogue The Nissan Rogue is a popular choice for its comfortable interior, generous cargo space, and available part-time AWD. It also offers a continuously variable transmission option. Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V stands out for practicality—its cargo area expands to class-leading size when you fold down the rear seats. It’s available with front-wheel drive or part-time AWD, and hybrid CR-V models come with AWD standard. Subaru Outback The Subaru Outback splits the difference between a station wagon and an SUV, with a comfortable ride and higher ground clearance than some trucks. All Outback models come with full-time AWD standard. Toyota HighlanderThe Toyota Highlander is a midsize three-row SUV built for families. Both its V6 and available hybrid powertrain can be equipped with front-wheel drive or part-time AWD.  Popular 4WD vehiclesBased on CarMax sales data, here are the most popular 4WD vehicles. Jeep WranglerThe Jeep Wrangler is essentially synonymous with off-road capability. In the Wrangler Rubicon trim, very few vehicles can match its go-anywhere ability. Since 2011, 4WD has been standard on all Wranglers. Most Wranglers use a standard 4WD system, with full-time 4WD available on select trims. Ford F-150 Ford’s full-size F-150 pickup offers a wide range of trim levels and configurations for nearly any job or lifestyle. 4WD is available, with multiple off-road packages depending on how much capability you need, up to the high-performance F-150 Raptor. Ram 1500 The full-size Ram 1500 delivers a comfortable ride without sacrificing towing muscle. It’s available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD, with various off-road upgrades for added capability. Toyota Tacoma The Toyota Tacoma has defined the midsize truck market for years, earning a reputation for off-road capability through trims like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro. It’s available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD. FAQWhat does AWD mean? AWD stands for all-wheel drive, the name for a system that allows a car, truck, or SUV to send power to all four wheels when it’s needed.What is AWD? AWD is a system that allows a vehicle to drive all four wheels to compensate for a loss of traction. It’s usually controlled automatically by the vehicle and can disconnect to improve fuel efficiency. What does 4WD mean? 4WD stands for four-wheel drive, the name for a system that links a truck or SUV’s front and rear wheels using a transfer case. What is 4WD? 4WD is a system that splits engine power between the front and rear wheels of a truck or SUV. It’s usually controlled by the driver and intended for low-speed and off-road use. Is 4x4 the same as 4WD? Yes, 4x4 (said, “four-by-four”) is another way to refer to a four-wheel drive vehicle. Is AWD the same as 4WD? No. Both AWD and 4WD send power from the engine to all four wheels, but they operate differently and are designed for different situations. What is the difference between AWD and 4WD? AWD is more useful on paved roads or for light off-roading, while 4WD has greater off-road capability but limited usability on paved roads. Which is better, AWD or 4WD? You should choose AWD if you primarily drive on paved roads and roads that are plowed in the winter. Choose 4WD if you do more serious off-roading, especially if you deal with mud or larger rocks, or need higher towing capacity. Does AWD affect fuel economy? Yes. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, AWD and 4WD systems typically reduce fuel economy by 1-2 mpg compared to two-wheel drive versions of the same vehicle. Part-time AWD systems minimize this impact by disconnecting when not needed. See fueleconomy.gov for more details. Updated by Scott WilsonThis story was produced by CarMax and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Rock Island man accused of armed robbery at Davenport KwikStar Evans-Whitfield is being held in the Scott County Jail without bond. He has a preliminary hearing on Oct. 20.
	How to avoid a SIM swap scam You’ve probably deleted a shady text message or two without a second thought, and blocking spam email from strangers feels second nature by now. But would you recognize the signs of a SIM swap scam? Also called SIM hijacking, this form of account takeover is more common than ever. The scale isn’t small, either. In 2025, authorities charged a cybercrime ring with stealing more than $800,000 in cryptocurrency from victims through SIM swapping. “Customers have become more mindful with what they’re clicking, where they’re going online, and who they’re speaking to, but it’s the small things that may seem harmless, such as your phone suddenly losing a signal,” says Roxane Adams, fraud expert at Forbright Bank. “If your security is not top of mind, then you’re vulnerable.”  When you understand how the scam works and what you can do to stop it, you’re in a stronger position to protect your phone number and the money tied to it.  There’s a lot you can do to lower your risk. Forbright Bank shares what to know. What Is a SIM Swap Scam?  In a SIM swap scam, a criminal tricks your mobile carrier into moving your phone number onto a SIM card they control. Once that happens, they can receive your calls and texts, including the security codes meant to verify your identity.  Not every SIM swap is fraud. You go through a legitimate version any time you switch phones or request a replacement SIM yourself. The fraudulent version looks different: an attacker armed with your stolen personal details poses as you and convinces the carrier to hand your number to them. From that point, they’re positioned to reset your passwords, capture verification codes, and take over your accounts one by one.  What Is a SIM, Exactly?  Your SIM is the small chip inside your phone that phone carriers use to confirm your identity and route your calls, texts, and data to the right device. Consider it the anchor of your mobile identity, since it’s what links your number to things like SMS two-factor codes and account-recovery processes. That’s exactly why criminals go after it, because whoever controls the SIM controls the gateway to a lot of your sensitive accounts — even those with additional security protection.Newer eSIM technology is more secure since it’s built directly into the phone rather than on a removable card that can be physically swapped. Even so, an eSIM is still tied to your phone number, so it isn’t immune to the digital version of this attack. How Does a SIM Swap Attack Happen?  The scam relies on gaps in how carriers verify who’s on the other end of the line. It typically plays out in four stages.  First, the criminal gathers your personal details, often through phishing emails, oversharing on social media, or straightforward social engineering. “It’s easier than ever to find personal information online, such as birthdays, previous addresses, and Social Security numbers,” Adams says. “The data is there and the fraudsters are leveraging that.”  Next, they call your mobile carrier pretending to be you.  Then they ask the carrier to move your number to a new SIM, often claiming your phone was lost or damaged. Finally, with your number in hand, they intercept the one-time codes sent by text, reset your account passwords, and work their way into whatever systems those accounts protect. Why a SIM Swap Scam Can Be Costly  SIM swapping causes so much harm because it defeats SMS-based two-factor authentication, one of the most widely used security tools out there. Once an attacker owns your number, they can:  Drain bank accounts by intercepting the verification texts needed to approve transfers. Empty crypto wallets by resetting logins tied to your number. Lock you out of email and cloud storage while quietly pulling your personal or business data. Open new credit lines or otherwise impersonate you using the accounts they’ve already taken over. How to Protect Yourself  from a SIM Swap Scam Phone carriers are improving their defenses, but you shouldn’t count on that alone. A handful of habits can reduce your risk:Use multi-factor authentication to access your apps when available, especially those with financial information.  Ask your carrier for a PIN or port-lock on your account. Most carriers let you require a separate code before any transfer request goes through, which adds a barrier for anyone trying to impersonate you. Turn on SIM protection through your phone carrier. This feature, free of charge, locks your SIM in place so no transfer request can go through until you unlock it yourself. Be conservative with sharing personal details online. Attackers build convincing impersonations out of publicly available information, so the less you post about your phone number, birthday, or address, the harder you are to imitate. Give every account its own strong password. Reusing passwords, or using close variations across accounts, means one breach can cascade into several. A password manager makes this easier to maintain. Keep an eye on your accounts. Turn on login alerts where you can and check in periodically for anything that looks off. Identity-monitoring services can also flag you if your information turns up in a breach or on the dark web. Treat unexpected contact with suspicion. Legitimate banks will never call or text you asking for a password, PIN, Social Security number, or payment. If something feels off, hang up and call the institution back using a number you already know is legitimate—don’t use a callback number a caller gives you. And never hand over personal information to an unsolicited call, email, or text. Signs You May Have Been SIM Swapped  The sooner you catch it, the less damage it does. If your phone suddenly loses a signal, with calls and texts no longer coming through, that’s a warning sign.  Also watch for login notifications or password-reset emails for accounts you didn’t touch, or a message from your carrier about a SIM activation or number transfer you never requested. If you’re locked out of your email, social media, or banking apps without warning, you may have been a victim of a SIM swap scam.  What to Do If It Happens to You  If you think you’ve been SIM swapped, speed matters more than almost anything else. Follow these steps as quickly as you can, Adams says.  Get your number back first. Call your carrier right away, explain that you’ve been targeted, and ask specifically for the fraud department—they’re equipped to handle this and can usually restore your number to a SIM you control. Lock down every account that may be exposed. Start with financial institutions and email, resetting passwords as soon as your number is back. Check your email provider’s sign-in activity for logins from unfamiliar devices, and going forward, refresh your passwords periodically and glance at your credit report for accounts or inquiries you don’t recognize. Report it. In the U.S., you can file a report with both the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Beyond helping your own case, it gives investigators data they can use to track patterns across other attacks. This story was produced by Forbright Bank and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Searching for your next home? Now you can see nearby childcare options Prospective home buyers are often experiencing transition in their personal lives. Perhaps a wedding — or divorce — is on the horizon. Maybe their kids have grown up and moved out, or their financial circumstances have changed.In many cases, though, people are looking to move because they want to start or grow their families, Daryl Fairweather, chief economist at Redfin, a real estate brokerage, told The 74 — making the matter of childcare particularly relevant to their search.With housing and childcare accounting for many families’ two biggest expenses — an intersection that Redfin explores in a new report — leaders at Redfin have been looking for a way to bring childcare into their own platform for some time.Now, they’re debuting a new feature, in partnership with Winnie, a national online childcare marketplace, that gives families visibility into nearby early care and education programs right there on the property listing they’re viewing.“Searching for a home often coincides with having a child,” said Fairweather. “If you’re trying to do the calculation on how much house you can afford, it’s helpful to know what your childcare options are before committing to that mortgage.”Winnie’s childcare data from more than 250,000 licensed early care and education programs nationwide is available on every for-sale property listing on Redfin’s mobile and desktop websites. The integration became available on Redfin’s mobile application for iOS and Android at the end of September, said Isabelle Novak, a spokesperson for the real estate company.The childcare feature will live right alongside the K-12 feature from GreatSchools — a nonprofit that rates schools — that has been available on Redfin for over a decade, Novak added. Prospective buyers, scrolling down a property listing, will see a “K-12” option and a “Preschool & daycare” option. Courtesy of Redfin The “Preschool & daycare” feature pulls the Winnie profiles of nearby providers — including licensed center-, home- and school-based early childhood programs — displaying up to five options along with the ages each program serves and its distance from the home. A buyer can click the name of a previewed program to see a pop-up that offers more details, including a provider’s website URL, hours of operation, description, address, options for financial assistance, language and any parent reviews that have been published to Winnie.For further information, buyers can click through to the provider’s profile on the Winnie website, which may have information like available slots and tuition rates, said Sara Mauskopf, CEO and co-founder of Winnie. Winnie pulls from public state licensing databases to create provider profiles on its site, Mauskopf said. From there, providers can update their pages with additional information. About a quarter of the 250,000 provider pages on Winnie have been claimed, Mauskopf added, and providers who are active on the Winnie platform will frequently update the number and type of open spaces they have in their program, since it can change “day-to-day.”Mauskopf believes this partnership will be very valuable to young families for whom “childcare is a necessity, not a nice-to-have,” she said.“I think it’s really critical for families to be thinking about childcare upfront and not as an afterthought,” she said.Mauskopf, a mom of three, recalled that when she and her husband were trying to find a home in their area, their focus was on home prices, not care options. After they’d moved, they ended up “scrambling at the last minute to secure childcare,” even having to consider whether one of them would need to step away from work until they could find childcare for their kids.That’s as important for families moving to quiet rural areas as it is for those in large metro areas, she said. They will want to know if they have many options or few, and if those are within walking distance or require a drive.“One of the things we know is true is that there are sometimes areas where there is no childcare nearby — childcare deserts,” Mauskopf said, referencing a term often used to describe areas that lack access to licensed programs. “Those might actually be affordable places to live,” she added, but if care is sparse or unavailable, that could be a dealbreaker for some families. The new feature can help families see whether there are care options near the home they’re eyeing.Indeed, Novak at Redfin said that the childcare integration will only show providers within a 10-mile radius of the address. If there are none, a message will appear noting that no programs were found within that distance of the home.One detail that many families will be seeking is the cost of childcare in a given area. Unfortunately, Mauskopf said, a lot of early care and education programs still require families to tour the space before sharing prices, “which is crazy,” she said. “It’s unlike any market.”That may soon change, though. She has recently begun to notice a shift in the industry, in which providers are starting to post tuition information publicly — a change likely driven by the fact that families are asking AI about program rates, she noted.“A lot of providers, for the first time, are willing to list prices online, since AI will just give you an answer anyway,” Mauskopf said.A majority of programs are still requiring parents to come in first, she said, but there’s increasing willingness to share costs upfront. She hopes that shift will continue and can soon be reflected in the Redfin integration so families can have a complete picture of their costs before making a move.This story was produced by The 74 and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Crossroads Inc. celebrates HNI Charitable Foundation Grant for new Muscatine facility Crossroads Inc. is celebrating a $200,000 gift from the HNI Charitable Foundation to support its new Day Habilitation facility at 2206 Lucas St., Muscatine, according to a news release. The gift will help Crossroads expand access to services for people with disabilities in a space designed to better meet their needs. Crossroads provides the only [...]
	How to get help paying your utility bills as colder weather approaches Staying warm might cost more this year. With the cost of energy rising, households may need to set aside more for heating as temperatures drop. NEADA estimates overall winter heating costs will rise 8.7% this year, more than double the rate of inflation, bringing the average household heating costs to about $1,030 over the coldest four months of the year. For families already stretching their budgets to cover everyday expenses, higher utility bills can make an already tight budget even harder to manage.Having access to things like electricity, gas, and water is non-negotiable. These utilities are fundamental for living a comfortable and safe lifestyle, which can make higher bills particularly difficult to manage.If higher utility costs are putting pressure on your budget, here are a few steps you can take, CreditFresh reports.1. Plan and Budget A good place to start is by creating a financial plan and budget that helps you manage your utility bills effectively, especially if your heating costs tend to rise during colder months.Here's how to get started:Track Your Expenses: Keep a record of your monthly expenses, including rent or mortgage, groceries, transportation, and other essentials. If you have them, review your utility bills from last fall and winter to get a better idea of how your costs changed during colder months. This will help you understand where your money is going.Create a Budget: Based on your income and expenses, create a budget that allocates a specific amount for each expense category, including utilities. If your heating costs tend to rise in fall and winter, leave some flexibility in that part of your budget rather than assuming every month will look the same. Prioritize Payments: Make sure that you prioritize essential bills like utilities to avoid disconnection.Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Identify areas where you can cut back on discretionary spending, like dining out or entertainment. The money saved can be redirected toward utility bills.2. Have a Backup PlanEven if you plan your utility expenses carefully, unexpected costs can still come up. A higher-than-expected heating bill, an emergency home repair, or other winter expenses can quickly put additional pressure on your budget.Having a backup plan can help you prepare for situations like these. Here are a few things to consider:Build an emergency fund: If you can, set aside some money for unexpected expenses. Even a small amount can give you something to fall back on when an unplanned bill comes up.Keep emergency supplies at home: Having basics like extra food, water, and blankets on hand can help you prepare for winter storms or power outages without having to make last-minute purchases.Know your borrowing options: If your savings aren’t enough to cover an emergency expense, you may want to look into emergency loans or other forms of emergency borrowing, including a personal loan or line of credit. Make sure you understand the costs and repayment terms before choosing an option.3. Contact Your Utility ProvidersIf you require assistance with your utility bills, you can start by reaching out to your utility providers directly. Whether it's your electricity, gas, or water company, they may have programs in place to help customers facing financial hardship. Here's how they can help:Payment Plans: Some utility companies may offer payment plans that allow you to spread your bills over a longer period, making monthly payments more manageable. These plans can help you avoid disconnection while catching up on overdue bills.Budget Billing: Some providers offer budget billing programs that let you pay a more consistent monthly amount based on historical or estimated usage. This can help stabilize your monthly expenses, which may be especially helpful when your heating use changes during colder months. The amount may be adjusted periodically, and any difference between estimated and actual costs may be reconciled later.Low-Income Assistance Programs: In some places, utility providers offer low-income assistance programs, often in collaboration with government agencies. These programs can provide reduced rates, subsidies, or emergency assistance to eligible customers.Winter Protection: In regions with cold winters, qualifying customers may be eligible for programs that restrict or delay utility disconnection during the winter season. Requirements and protections vary by location, so check with your utility provider or local assistance agency before winter arrives.4. Explore Government Assistance & Community ProgramsIn addition to assistance from utility providers, government agencies and community organizations may offer programs and resources that can help with utility bills. Eligibility requirements and available support can vary depending on your situation and your area. Here are some common options:LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program): LIHEAP is a federal program in the United States that provides financial assistance to low-income households to help with heating and cooling costs. Eligibility is based on income and household size, and funds are typically distributed through community action agencies.WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program): WAP is another federal program designed to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households. It provides funding to states, territories, and tribes, which arrange weatherization services for eligible households; these improvements can help reduce utility bills. 211 Helpline: In the United States, you can dial 2-1-1, a national helpline that connects individuals and families to local resources, including utility bill assistance programs and nonprofit organizations.Community Action Agencies: Community action agencies, also known as CAAs, operate in many areas and provide a range of services, including utility bill assistance. They often serve as the front line for government assistance programs like LIHEAP.SpringFour: SpringFour is a free online tool that can connect you with local and statewide resources that may help reduce your household expenses, including utility bills. Simply enter your ZIP code to find programs and resources available in your area.5. Plan for the Long TermIn addition to getting help with your current utility bills, improving the energy efficiency of your home can help reduce your utility bills over the long term. These aren’t something that will help you in an emergency this winter, but as you look ahead, they are worth considering. Here are some ways to make your home more energy efficient.Energy-Efficient Appliances: Consider replacing old and energy-hungry appliances with more energy-efficient models. Look for the ENERGY STAR label, which signifies appliances that meet specific energy efficiency guidelines.Smart Thermostats: Smart thermostats can help you control your heating and cooling more effectively, potentially reducing your energy consumption.Energy Audits: Some utility providers offer free or low-cost energy audits to identify areas where you can save energy in your home.Rebates and Incentives: Check if your utility company offers rebates or incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. These can help offset the initial costs of improvements.While higher utility bills can put extra pressure on your budget, especially during the colder months, planning ahead and knowing where to turn for help can make those costs easier to manage. Taking steps now to prepare for higher costs can help you feel more confident about managing your utility bills in the months ahead. 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.
	Your October cybersecurity checklist: What to check about your public digital footprint The scariest time of year is right around the corner, but the biggest threat to your privacy may have been silently looming in the background all year long. October is the perfect time to conduct a quick audit of one of the most commonly overlooked threats to your privacy: your public digital footprint. Any sensitive information about you that can be found online is at risk of being exploited by scammers – even information that you didn’t intentionally share yourself. Here, PeopleFinders provides a checklist to identify and clean up potentially sensitive information so you can avoid a security scare. What’s a Public Digital Footprint?In short, your public digital footprint includes any information about you that’s available online. Your public digital footprint is most commonly an accumulation of various online sources, including:Social Media SitesSearch EnginesPublic RecordsPeople-Search SitesProfessional ProfilesApps/WebsitesWhat Does My Public Digital Footprint Say About Me?Individual pieces of your information may seem tame enough, but when looked at altogether, they can create a scarily detailed profile of you. Someone searching for you could learn private information like: Your nameYour phone number Your addressWhere you workFamily connectionsFrequently visited locations In this day and age, anyone who knows your name can discover your private information. Organizations like the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommend taking proactive steps, like limiting publicly shared information. Similarly, the FCC recommends taking steps to protect your personal data. But what do you do about the information that’s already out there? Your Public Digital Footprint Checklist: OverviewIf you have personal information online, there’s no need to panic. The goal of cybersecurity isn’t to erase your online presence; it’s to have a better handle on what information of yours is publicly available.Get a handle on your public digital footprint by running through the following cybersecurity checklist: Search your name & informationCheck people-search websitesReview your social media privacyDelete unused accountsReview app permissionsUpdate passwords and security settingsHow to Evaluate Your Public Digital Footprint Before you can address your online presence, you need to know what it consists of. Start the process by evaluating your public digital footprint for weak spots. Search for Yourself The first step in protecting your information is knowing what’s readily accessible about you. Search the following combinations and see what results are returned: Full nameName + cityName + employerPhone numberEmail addressCommon usernames Check People-Search Sites Sometimes, even information you never posted yourself is online. People search tools compile information from public records, social media, and other online sites. Plus, depending on the website, results may include phone numbers, relatives, age, addresses, and property information. Consider running a reverse phone or email search on a people search tool to see what information is publicly associated with your name. Review Your Social Media and Old AccountsNext, you should audit your current and old posts for unnecessarily personal information. Look for: Addresses and location information Phone numbers or email addressesWorkplace/educational information BirthdaysFamily detailsWhen you review your social media, ask yourself one question: would I want a stranger to see it? If not, consider removing it or making your posts or account private. Review Apps, Permissions and Privacy Settings Next, review the permissions and privacy settings on your apps. Check which of your apps can access private information like your location, contacts, camera, photos, and microphone. Websites and apps use these permissions to collect information about your browsing activity, internet searches, location, and devices. Revoke unnecessary permissions to further protect your privacy. How to Clean Up Your Digital FootprintNow that you’ve done a review of your information, take the following steps to further secure your privacy. Delete or Hide Old ContentKeeping a strong handle on your online presence means knowing exactly what’s on each public profile. Delete old posts, profiles, and accounts that no longer serve a purpose. Remove any unnecessary personal information from public profiles, and consider making your accounts private when available. Secure the Accounts You KeepKeep yourself secure with the following tips for digital security: Use strong, unique passwords for each account.Enable multifactor authentication, where available. Update outdated passwords, especially ones that may have been involved in data breaches.Keep your devices and software up to date.Remove unnecessary third-party app connections. Close Unused AccountsDelete accounts you no longer use, like shopping websites, gaming forums, and, of course, social media accounts. Removing abandoned accounts reduces the personal information that sits idly online. Make Your Digital Footprint Check an Annual HabitOctober is a great month to get your digital hygiene straightened out. Even so, this checklist should be a starting point, not a one-time fix. New accounts, websites, and information can change what’s publicly available. For maximum online safety, consider doing an annual digital footprint audit. Once a year, make a point to search for your personal information, reinforce your security settings, and delete unused accounts. Remember that the goal of cybersecurity isn’t to delete your online presence; it’s to give you a level of agency and control over your publicly accessible information. The right precautionary measures can save you a lot of time, money, and energy down the line.This story was produced by PeopleFinders and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Upper Mississippi River Conference will be hosted by River Action The annual Upper Mississippi River Conference is less than a month away, according to a news release from River Action. The 20th Annual Upper Mississippi River Conference will be Npv. 4-5 at the RiverCenter, 136 E. 3rd St., in Davenport. Hosted by River Action, the 2026 theme is "The Future of the River." "We have [...]
	‘The Work in Progress’ documentary from Robert Reich brings everyday Iowans to the big screen What do we owe each other as Americans? That’s the question that kicks off The Work in Progress, a timely, new documentary that features everyday Americans — including several Iowans — in conversation with one another. The film will screen in Iowa City on Oct. 16.
	Record warmth today in the Quad Cities The average high today is 67° and the record is 87°. We should easily break that. Rain chances increase later Tuesday through Thursday. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Davenport man accused of sexually abusing 5-year-old child A 32-year-old Davenport man has been charged after he allegedly sexually abused a 5-year-old child.
	IMEG expands Florida presence with acquisition of Construction Engineering Group IMEG acquired Construction Engineering Group, expanding its Florida presence and adding nearly 30 years of multidisciplinary engineering experience.
	Rock Island man who jumped into Mississippi River to evade police gets 17 years A Rock Island man who jumped into the Mississippi River while fleeing police has been sentenced to 17 years in federal prison on drug and weapons charges.
	City of Aledo to hold ribbon-cutting for Phase 1 of the Sponsler Manor Fourth Subdivision To encourage new home construction, the City Council has approved a 50% Lot Incentive Program.
	Strawberry Sprouts thrift store opens in Cambridge Strawberry Sprouts thrift store to provide the community a local secondhand and thrift shopping offering affordable goods.
	Tattoo studio opens in NorthPark, new thrift store, Miss Kate's Creations opens, and more Quad-Cities business news The Spicy Brain Tattoo studio opens in NorthPark, new thrift store opens, Miss Kate's Creations opens, and more Quad-Cities business news.
	Rock Island County real estate transactions for October 11, 2026 Here are homes sales and property sales in Rock Island County.
	Mayfly Mayday This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Are you as worried as I am about the disappearance of the mayflies? June is a poor thing along the Upper Mississippi…
	Mahershala Ali is still hungry as an actor: 'Let's fail on camera until we find it' Ali plays a devout Muslim family man, who also happens to be an assassin in Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother. After decades in the business and two Oscars, he says he has less fear as an actor.
	Here's what to know if you're unsure about your measles immunity status Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against measles. For most adults, one shot of the MMR is considered enough protection. But there are certain situations that call for a second dose.
	U.S. restrictions on Chinese drones are leaving police departments in the lurch The U.S. government is trying to end the dominance of high-quality, low-cost drones made in China. But more restrictions mean higher costs for cash-strapped police forces that rely on those drones.
	Fontaines D.C.'s decadent, dystopian vision of our time "I just want to make people really feel things about the world they live in," Grian Chatten says of Dopamine Chamber, which he describes as the band's attempt to map the tensions of our moment.
	Enter the Holiday Lights Sweepstakes for a Chance to Win a Year-Round Lighting Display! Enter for a chance to transform your home with a permanent holiday lighting display, courtesy of WQAD and Electric Doctor. Deadline is November 15th!
	Trump says Russia and Ukraine agree to an 'energy ceasefire' President Trump said Sunday that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to an "energy ceasefire," but he offered no details on it and Kyiv reported attacks by Moscow on energy sites after his statement.
	OQC Crime Watch: Gunfire rings out near Roger Craig stadium: Episode 84 Watch crime reporters Linda Cook and Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in the latest episode of the Our Quad Cities Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode, Linda and Sharon provide updates about: A man from Davenport has been arrested in connection with burglary and damage at The Grinders and Spaghetti House, Moline. U. [...]
	Davenport Central’s Dillynn Moore wins Spotlight Athlete of the Week Davenport Central volleyball star Dillynn Moore wins Spotlight Athlete of the Week.
	Iowa Ghostbusters turn fandom into fundraising at Nerdtober Con Comic book fans gathered at Nerdtober Con in the Quad Cities Sunday, where Iowa Ghostbusters raised funds for a local children's hospital.
	Official Sweepstakes Rules for Holiday Lights 2026 Sweepstakes starts October 12th and runs through November 15th
Sunday, October 11th, 2026
	4 Questions to Ask When Planning Dental and Vision Coverage for Retirement (Feature Impact) When you're picturing retirement, it's more fun to imagine yourself on a sandy beach than filling out insurance paperwork. However, with 4.1 million Americans reaching retirement age this year - including many retiring earlier than expected - it's important to be proactive and informed about your options for dental and vision coverage and care. "With nearly 7 in 10 adults over 65 having gum disease, oral health issues don't wait for a convenient time to show up," said Dr. Jason Grinter, vice president of dental science and network strategy at Delta Dental of Illinois. "Planning for preventive dental visits, just like any other health need, can help catch issues early and avoid larger costs down the road." Preventive care plays an important role in maintaining both oral and overall health. In fact, 90% of adults believe preventive dental care is the best defense against serious and costly dental issues, according to the 2026 State of America's Oral Health and Wellness Report, and adults with dental insurance are twice as likely to make a preventive dental visit. Despite the importance of preventive care, nearly one-third of adults 65 and older with vision difficulty miss their annual eye exam, according to a national vision study. As you plan for dental and vision coverage in retirement, consider these questions: When should you start thinking about dental and vision coverage for retirement? Treat dental and vision coverage as an important item on your retirement checklist - not a last-minute addition. Since Medicare Parts A and B don't cover routine dental and vision care, research alternative coverage options and factor in potential out-of-pocket costs. Depending on your needs and area prices, you may pay higher monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs in retirement. What should you look for when comparing dental and vision plans? Monthly premiums are easiest to focus on, but they don't tell the whole story about whether a plan is right for you. Consider whether your preferred dentist or eye doctor is in network and, if you travel frequently, whether the plan offers a broad network away from home. Using in-network providers can mean lower out-of-pocket costs, helping stretch retirement dollars further. How can you choose dental and vision coverage that fits your retirement budget? Cost is an important factor for many retirees, and it's an area where balance is key. The plan with the lowest premium may not be the most affordable option once you've factored in deductibles, copays, annual maximums and coverage limitations. Since regular visits are important for early detection of potential health issues, consider individual dental and vision plans through Delta Dental of Illinois. With a focus on preventive care and comprehensive coverage, individual dental plans cover preventive checkups and exams at 100% and help reduce out-of-pocket costs for many procedures. Why are routine dental and eye exams important as you age? Regular checkups can catch small problems early before they turn into larger, more costly ones. Dentists can identify signs of gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer, as well as oral health issues associated with other conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Routine eye exams, meanwhile, can help diagnose common age-related eye diseases and help prevent vision loss. As concerns like tooth loss, cataracts and glaucoma become more common with age, it's important to factor evolving dental and vision needs into your retirement planning. Planning your dental and vision coverage today can help protect your overall health for years to come. Learn more and explore plans at deltadentalil.com/individual-plans. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Beyond Hot Flashes: 5 Things Women Wish Everyone Knew About Menopause (Feature Impact) Menopause is a phase of life every woman knows will come eventually yet few are truly prepared for. Beyond stereotypical symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, the other realities of menopause can be mysterious, taking women by surprise when their experiences differ from expectations. Rather than being a single event, menopause involves a gradual transition that happens as estrogen production changes - meaning symptoms can appear and evolve unpredictably. According to a survey commissioned by the National Menopause Foundation, 63% of U.S. women ages 35-54 experienced symptoms they believed may be related to perimenopause or menopause, yet nearly half (49%) said they weren't prepared for the changes beforehand. When women and their loved ones understand what they're facing, they can approach this time with patience and compassion, which can make a real difference to the 71% of women who wished the people in their lives understood more about perimenopause or menopause. Consider these five facts to help fill in the menopause knowledge gap. Perimenopause Can Start Years Before Menopause The physiological transition to menopause can happen up to 10 years before a woman's final menstrual period, although the average length of perimenopause is about four years. Symptoms may quietly begin in a woman's 30s, 40s or 50s, and what might look like an isolated problem at first - like brain fog, a night of insomnia or an irregular monthly cycle - could be connected to broader hormonal changes. Menopause Is More Than Just "Hot Flashes" Since more than half of women surveyed were already aware of menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, anxiety and fatigue, these may not take them by surprise. Little-known symptoms are a different story - the majority of respondents didn't anticipate menopausal issues like rage, inner-ear itching or reduced joint mobility. According to the National Menopause Foundation, women may also experience sleep disturbances, sweating, changes in libido, vaginal dryness, incontinence, weight changes and more. Every woman's experience is unique, so these symptoms could present in different combinations and intensities during menopausal years or may not appear at all. Talking About Menopause Can Be Difficult Even as women go through these physical and emotional shifts, many struggle to open up about their experiences. In fact, women rank menopause symptoms (17%) more difficult to discuss than hot-button topics like political views (13%), weight (13%) and religious beliefs (10%). However, suffering in silence can lead to feelings of isolation, relationship misunderstandings and hesitation to seek help, which is why 66% of women said the lack of open discussion about menopause makes the experience worse. Menopause Isn't All Bad News Although this season of life comes with challenges, there are joys to embrace as well. Women navigating midlife can come out the other side with more resilience, emotional awareness and a stronger sense of self. In fact, 44% of women surveyed said their outlook on life became more positive since their transition. What Loved Ones Can Actually Do Menopause is a highly individual experience, but that doesn't mean women have to navigate it alone. Support from partners, families and friends can lift women up during difficult moments, and it can be as simple as taking the time to ask questions, listen and learn about how menopause is affecting their lives. With 30% of women in the U.S. labor force - approximately 15-16 million - in the age range corresponding to menopausal transition (ages 45-60), workplaces can also take steps to become more menopause friendly. For more resources to help understand symptoms and discuss the transition with loved ones, visit nationalmenopausefoundation.org. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	6 Ways to Create a More Sustainable Bathroom (Feature Impact) Conserving water, energy and resources is key to running an environmentally friendly household, and one of the best places to start is your bathroom. As one of the most frequently used rooms in the house, it's a small space that makes a big difference. Every flush, shower, twist of the tap and restock of restroom essentials is an opportunity to manage your ecological footprint. The good news is you don't need a full-scale remodel to make your bathroom more efficient. Small changes to daily habits, routine maintenance and upgraded plumbing fixtures can all have a valuable impact. By making thoughtful choices at home now, you can protect your community's freshwater supplies, consume less energy and help create a more sustainable future. For useful ways to save water, conserve energy and reduce waste, consider these tips from the bathroom design and sustainability experts at TOTO. Fix Leaks Before They Waste More Water From dripping faucets to worn toilet flappers, small leaks can quickly add up. In fact, according to the EPA, the average household wastes approximately 9,400 gallons of water each year due to leaks. That can mean money going down the drain, too: If you notice your water bill is increasing and can't figure out why, a hidden leak could be responsible. To test whether your toilet has a silent leak, try adding a dye tablet or a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If color seeps into the bowl before you've flushed (usually within 10 minutes), it likely means an issue with the flapper. Many leaks are easy fixes, but a trained plumbing professional can give you more specific guidance. Choose Water-Efficient Fixtures Upgrading your plumbing fixtures can make an immediate difference, particularly when you choose EPA WaterSense-labeled models designed to save water without sacrificing performance. The water-efficiency specialists at TOTO helped shape the product-performance standards for the program, which turns 20 this year. Its toilets pair elegant design with water-saving performance and no compromises on power. They are designed to use either 1.0 or 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF), representing water savings of 37.5% or 20%, respectively, compared with the federal standard of 1.6 GPF. Whether you're looking for the Aurora's elegant sculptural design, the Redington's clean architectural lines or the Glaston's timeless two-piece look, each model features powerful, gravity-driven flush performance and an ultrasmooth ceramic bowl glaze for easy cleaning, all while using less water. Cut Paper and Single-Use Waste Next time you're ready to restock your bathroom cabinets, consider some simple eco-friendly product swaps. Look for toilet tissue made with recycled or sustainable materials or consider adding a bidet to reduce paper use - and never flush anything except toilet paper, even wipes labeled "flushable." Instead of buying soap and personal care products in single-use packaging, you can lower your plastic consumption by choosing refillable containers. When possible, opt for a stash of washable cloths for cleaning rather than relying on disposable wipes and paper towels. Take Shorter Showers and Make Every Gallon Count Spending less time in the shower is one of the most impactful things one person can do to save water. Showering accounts for nearly 17% of residential indoor water use, according to the EPA, and if you prefer warm showers, that also means using energy to heat the water. Make a habit of staying in the shower long enough to complete your routine but not lingering beyond that. To make each minute more water-efficient, consider upgrading to TOTO's 2-Mode Showerhead, available in stylish round and square designs. Its efficient 1.75 GPM flow is paired with Comfort Wave for a stimulating experience and Warm Spa for soothing, enveloping warmth. You can also save water by turning off the tap while you lather with soap and shampoo, a technique sometimes referred to as a "Navy shower." Ventilate Efficiently to Control Moisture Keeping your bathroom and the rest of your home in good condition relies in large part on controlling moisture and humidity. Use exhaust fans to vent moist air outside - not just into an attic or another enclosed space where it can cause damage, rot or mold. You can also use smart home features like humidity sensors and timers to control ventilation without running the fan longer than necessary. Maintain Fixtures for a Longer Life By taking good care of your bathroom fixtures, you can extend their longevity, thereby saving resources compared to replacing them more frequently. Follow manufacturers' care instructions for cleaning and maintenance, avoiding abrasive cleaners that may wear away finishes. Aim to proactively remove any mineral buildup on faucets and showerheads, since it can reduce water flow and prematurely age your fixtures. Keep an eye on serviceable components that tend to wear out - such as seals, faucet cartridges and toilet fill components - and see if you can fix or replace them individually first. When the time comes to upgrade toilets, sinks and showers, choose high-quality options you'll be happy to have in your home for years to come. Learn more about sustainable bathroom fixtures at TotoUSA.com.
	Make Mealtime Easier with These Air Fryer Recipes (Feature Impact) When busy weeknights begin to make dinners feel more like a race against the clock than a chance to slow down, families need meals that come together quickly without defaulting to takeout. One solution may already be sitting on your counter: an air fryer. Air fryers are now found in 7 of 10 American homes, according to new consumer research from the National Frozen and Refrigerated Foods Association, but consumers are still learning how to use them beyond dinner, despite nearly 9 in 10 owners saying they'd like to discover more ways to get the most from their air fryer. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of air fryer users said the appliance is faster than their oven, making it a convenient solution for everything from quick breakfasts and lunches to snacks and weeknight dinners. With the added convenience encouraging users to eat at home more often, air fryers can also help stretch the family food budget. If you're looking to get more from your air fryer, start by thinking beyond dinner. Frequent users treat air fryers as an all-day essential, putting them to work for breakfast, quick lunches, after-school snacks and beyond. Look for frozen and refrigerated products that include air fryer directions on the packaging, such as frozen potatoes and vegetables, then visit Easy Home Meals for even more recipe inspiration. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or simply looking to try something new, recipes like Air Fryer Butternut Squash and Chorizo Tacos and Air Fryer Chicken Katsu Bowls can help you get more from your air fryer while bringing fresh flavors to the table. For more air fryer recipes, tips and inspiration for every meal occasion, visit EasyHomeMeals.com. Air Fryer Butternut Squash and Chorizo Tacos Recipe courtesy of Easy Home Meals Total time: 15-30 minutes Servings: 1-4 1 pound fresh chorizo sausage links 1 pound frozen, diced butternut squash 1 tablespoon olive oil kosher salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste 12 flour tortillas (6 inches) 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco 1/4 cup pickled red onions chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish Preheat air fryer to 400 F 5 minutes. Place chorizo and butternut squash in even layer in air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Air-fry 10-14 minutes, flipping sausage and butternut squash halfway through, until chorizo's internal temperature reaches 160 F and vegetables are tender. Transfer sausage to cutting board. Cut into 1/4-inch slices. Top tortillas with sausage and butternut squash. Garnish with queso fresco, pickled red onions and cilantro. Air Fryer Chicken Katsu Bowls Recipe courtesy of Easy Home Meals Total time: 15-30 minutes Servings: 1-4 1/4 cup ketchup 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon molasses 1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar 1 clove garlic, finely grated 2 frozen, breaded chicken breast cutlets 1 bag (10.8 ounces) frozen California blend vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower and carrots 1 tablespoon olive oil kosher salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 microwavable bag (8.5 ounces) jasmine rice, prepared and kept warm 1 cup shredded purple cabbage 1/2 cup shelled edamame toasted sesame seeds, for garnish chopped green onions, for garnish In small bowl, combine ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, soy sauce, sugar and garlic. Set aside. Preheat air-fryer to 400 F 5 minutes. Place chicken cutlets in even layer in air-fryer basket. Arrange vegetables in even layer around chicken cutlets. Drizzle vegetables with oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook 10-15 minutes, flipping cutlets halfway through, until lightly browned and crisp and vegetables are tender. Slice chicken cutlets. Divide prepared rice evenly between bowls. Top with chicken cutlets, vegetables, cabbage and edamame. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with ketchup mixture.
	5 Simple Steps to Prepare Before Disaster Strikes (Feature Impact) Disaster preparedness doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. It's all about the small, simple steps you can take to protect yourself, your family and your community. Yet, as severe weather becomes more frequent, many people aren't prepared for the impact. New research from United Way Worldwide and Verizon revealed that although 60% of U.S. adults are concerned a natural disaster could affect their household in the next year, only 15% would feel very prepared for one. While many people understand the risks, they face real barriers to preparation. Cost remains the primary obstacle to disaster preparedness with 45% of those surveyed naming it as the top barrier. In addition to cost, lack of time (25%) and not knowing where to start (28%) prevented people from taking action. That's why preparedness should be practical and affordable. For example, the United Way's United We Prepare initiative, supported by Verizon, offers free disaster preparedness workshops, emergency kit distribution, information on local emergency services and practical guidance to help people plan and be ready to weather a storm. When individuals and families are better prepared, communities are more resilient. Get started with these simple, zero-cost steps: Identify Key Emergency Contacts Choose a relative or friend outside of your immediate community who can act as a central check-in point or offer shelter during an emergency. Also, take a few moments to create updated digital and physical emergency contact lists with names, phone numbers and addresses of loved ones as well as service and healthcare providers. Enable Local Alerts Identify trusted local emergency services and news that can provide weather and emergency information. Turn on wireless emergency alerts in your phone settings, bookmark local news weather pages and save other important website links to ensure you're in-the-know when disasters strike. Build a Support System Before severe weather, touch base with at least two neighbors or family members to identify what help they may need (or what assistance they can provide) and create a plan for checking in with each other in the event of an emergency. Plan for Special Needs It's easiest to make clear-headed decisions before you're stressed and rushing in the heat of the moment, so sit down and sketch out basic plans for special needs related to transportation, prescriptions, caregiving and pets before severe weather arrives. Decide where you would meet if separated, how to get there if transportation is disrupted, who would pick up children or take care of pets, what health needs or medications need to be considered and more. Save Key Information and Documents Digitally During a crisis, you likely won't have time to search filing cabinets, desks and glove compartments for important documentation. Take photos or make digital copies of identification documents, insurance information, medical cards, prescription details, important household records and other key documents to access if you need to leave home quickly. For insurance purposes, it may also be helpful to take a video of your property and valuable belongings in your home in case they're damaged or ruined. The goal isn't to do everything at once; it's to start. An hour spent making connections, gathering information and talking through a plan today can make it easier to act when time matters most. For more simple preparedness tips and resources, visit UnitedWePrepare.org. Test Your Disaster Preparedness Knowledge Take the quiz at UnitedWePrepare.org to test your knowledge on 10 disaster preparedness questions customized to your area, such as: What should you include in a winter emergency supply kit for your car? What is the difference between a Tornado Watch and Tornado Warning? When should you evacuate during a wildfire? Why is it important to prepare for disasters? Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (preparation supplies)

Monday, October 12th, 2026

Sunday, October 11th, 2026