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

Saturday, January 24th, 2026
	Galesburg man faces felony gun-, drug-related charges after traffic stop A 27-year-old Galesburg man faces felony charges after the Knox County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop Jan. 20 in Galesburg, according to a news release from the sheriff's office. Deputies saw a traffic violation involving a red Toyota Camry. During the traffic stop, deputies "observed indicators consistent with criminal activity" and, in accordance with [...]
	China's top general under investigation in latest military purge Analysts believe these purges aim to reform the military and ensure loyalty to Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Another commission member, Liu Zhenli, is also under investigation.
	2 injured in shooting at downtown Moline restaurant The shooting is under investigation.
	Explore sports and cultures at 45th Knox College International Fair Knox College's International Club will be hosting its 45th annual International Fair on Saturday, January 31. The fair celebrates cultures, customs, and traditions. This year's theme is Sports from Around the World. Events will start at 10:30a.m. with the Booth Fair running until 11:30a.m. in the lobby of the Ford Center for the Fine Arts. [...]
	Opinion: Mark Carney's warning and its echoes from the past When he spoke at Davos this week, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney referenced a 1978 essay by Vaclav Havel, written when Czechoslovakia was under Soviet control.
	This sprawling, surrealist movie is a tribute to cinema itself Director Bi Gan, known for his films Kaili Blues and Long Day's Journey Into Night, sets his latest film in a world where people can live forever, unless they dream.
	QC Arts visiting artist will be in concert Quad City Arts Visiting Artist, Barron Ryan will be in the Quad Cities for performances next month. Ryan will perform in the Butterworth Center Library, 1105 8th St., Moline, in a free program on Monday, Feb. 23, at 6:30 p.m. Parking is available in the lots to the north and east of Butterworth Center, and [...]
	Davenport man sentenced to 20 years in prison on sexual exploitation convictions He had pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, five counts of first-degree harassment and one count of possession of a depiction of a minor engaged in a sex act.
	Shellie Moore Guy This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Ever since Shellie Moore Guy of Rock Island began writing poetry a few years ago, she has upset me. And I'm too old to…
	As the winter storm rages, here's what to know in your state Reporters across the NPR Network are covering the impact of the storm and how officials are responding. We've also got tips for staying safe once bad weather hits.
	Local basketball games provide entertainment during cold temperatures Local basketball games provided entertainment and warmth during QC cold spell.
Friday, January 23rd, 2026
	Heavy police presence in downtown Moline; bar patrons brave subzero temps to watch Patrons of downtown Moline bars braved subzero temperatures late Friday to watch police during an incident shortly before 10 p.m. Our Quad Cities News crew saw a dozen squad cars and officers on the scene near Chimie's Taco Bar and Bent River Brewing on the 1400 block of 5th Avenue. A man, who was handcuffed, [...]
	Officials: Moline police investigate after shooting inside downtown restaurant A large police presence is gathered in downtown Moline, across from Lagomarcino’s Confectionery.
	Family donates blood in honor of their late grandfather The Butler family came to ImpactLife Friday afternoon to give blood, even in the freezing cold temperatures.
	Previewing Week 3 of The Score Basketball News 8's Shelby Kluver, Kory Kuffler and Jenna Minor preview tonight's basketball action from across the region.
	Inside Iowa Politics: What Gov. Reynolds said she will do about cancer crisis Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said her $50 million state commitment to cancer will have a "hub and spoke" model.
	Cook review: 'Bone Temple' is gory, smart, terrifying look at zombie dystopia The film "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" is more than just another zombie movie. It's a post-apocalyptic tale that will whet the palette of gore hounds, fans of the "28 Days" franchise, and audiences who want their blood sprinkled with character development and literary references. By far the best episode (so far) of the [...]
	Davenport man sentenced to federal prison for possessing firearm A federal grand jury indicted him on two counts of felon in possession of a firearm on April 9, 2025, and he pleaded guilty to the counts in August.
	Community mental-health conference scheduled for Moline Learn about the connection between anxiety and trauma at a community mental health conference Friday, March 20. at Black Hawk College. "Strength in Numbers – The Anxiety & Trauma Connection: Empowering Individuals, Supporting Professionals" will be 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the college’s Quad-Cities Campus in Moline. Cost is $45 and includes a light [...]
	School buses and the cold, how fleet managers prepare Brutally cold temperatures can impact how your child gets to school on time.
	Highlight Zone: Week 3, high school basketball This week’s episode brings some heat to the frigid QCA.
	Tips for protecting your pets from the cold With dangerously cold temperatures, it’s important to know how to keep your furry friends warm.
	Crews battle house fire in Clinton in bitterly cold temps Crews are battling a house fire in Clinton.
	TSA releases 10 best ‘catches’ of 2025, Moline makes list The TSA released their list for the 10 best “catches” of 2025 and the Quad Cities International Airport made the cut.
	Girl Scouts spotlight skills, service and a new cookie flavor Girl Scout cookie season is underway, bringing a new rocky‑road‑inspired flavor and offering girls across eastern Iowa and western Illinois the chance to build skills while raising funds that stay local to support camps, programs and financial assistance.
	Opening night for musical comedy 'Lucky Stiff' at Circa '21 The murder mystery comedy musical is Circa's first show of the year. It opens Friday night, Jan. 23, in Rock Island and runs through March 7.
	-45° "wins" as lowest wind chill of Friday morning Lowden, Iowa hit the cold wind chill jackpot - if there is such a thing. The combo of bitter cold temps and strong winds sent the wind chill in Cedar County (Lowden) plummeting to -45° at 7:01 Friday morning. In the Quad Cities we had wined chills of -38° and -37° from Rock Island to [...]
	Learn about veterinary careers at Black Hawk College Teddy Bear Hospital Black Hawk College and Kewanee Animal Shelter are presenting a Teddy Bear Hospital on Saturday, January 24th at 9a.m. to 12:00p.m. The event will be at the Black Hawk College East Campus Veterinary Sciences Center, 26230 Black Hawk Road Galva, IL. Kids are encouraged to bring in their teddy bears for a checkup that includes [...]
	Niabi Zoo's baby fennec foxes staying warm in the cold The fennec kits were born to mom Dahlia and dad Cosmo.
	Cook review: 'The Rip' tears up the screen with Damon, Affleck, mystery, action "The Rip" involves a huge stash of cash, a group of dirty-cop suspects, and the dependable duo of Affleck/Damon. It's the perfect cure for the winter blues for grownups who like a good mystery and thriller. The setting is present-day Miami, right after what appears to be the assassination of a well-respected police captain. Matt [...]
	ComEd files $15.3 billion grid plan proposal addressing rising demand The plan, if approved in full by state regulators, would add between $2.50 and $3 to the average customer’s monthly bill.
	Quad Cities International Airport makes TSA's list of top 10 unusual finds for 2025 Among the top 10 were turtles found in pants, pills in a shampoo bottle and bullets hidden in a container of strawberry Nesquik.
	Illinois saw no fatal expressway shootings last year The number of shootings on Illinois highways has dropped for the fourth consecutive year, with no fatal shooting incidents on the expressways.
	Clinton barn fire still under investigation No one was injured in a barn fire Thursday evening in Clinton, according to a news release from the Clinton Fire Department. The fire began about 4:30 p.m. on the 2600 block of West Stockwell Lane, where crews responded with one engine, one tanker, a command vehicle, and one ambulance. The remaining on-duty crews were [...]
	Crews respond to early morning fire in Rock Island The Rock Island Fire department responded to a house fire shortly after 1:15 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 23.
	Iowa Quad-Cities lawmakers look to ramp up energy production in the state Area lawmakers gave their views on property taxes, workforce training, energy production and public safety and mental health initiatives to help the few people who repeatedly require emergency resources.
	Get help planning the wedding of your dreams at the Jaycees of the Quad Cities' Wedding Expo If you need help planning the wedding of your dreams and need ideas, you're in luck! Brianna Powell and Drew Grace stopped by Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Jaycees of the Quad Cities' Wedding Expo. For more information, click here.
	3 new members join Empowering Abilities Board of Directors Empowering Abilities has announced the addition of three new members to its Board of Directors: Tracy Lindaman, Kendra Mulcahy Glazier, and Eric Langan. Each new board member brings valuable professional experience, strong community connections, and a shared commitment to Empowering Abilities’ mission of supporting individuals with disabilities to live, work, and thrive in the community. according [...]
	Minnesotans turn out in the frigid cold to protest Trump's immigration crackdown Minnesota residents took to the streets of downtown Minneapolis to protest the federal government's immigration campaign in the state, after weeks of sustained resistance in their communities. Businesses across the region closed in solidarity.
	Police responding to report of threat on UW-Whitewater at Rock County campus Police are responding to a threat Friday at the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater at Rock County campus.
	Trump expands policy banning aid to groups abroad that discuss or provide abortions In addition to adding to the list of groups that will lose funding for providing or discussing abortion, the policy now also calls for ending aid to groups that embrace DEI.
	What you need to know about water main breaks: Iowa American Water Freezing temperatures aren’t just a threat to people and animals; they pose a threat to plumbing inside and outside your home as well. Lisa Reisen, senior manager of external communications with Iowa American Water, spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to give an update on the condition of water pipes in the Iowa [...]
	Trump heading to Iowa, how to reserve a spot, tickets President Donald Trump is scheduled to travel to Iowa next week.
	What to know about the deal to keep TikTok in US Questions remain about whether TikTok users’ experience will change after the deal to keep the app in the US and whether the changes actually address security concerns around the app.
	Rock Island family displaced after early morning house fire A family was displaced after a fire on 25th Street near 33rd Avenue in Rock Island early Friday morning.
	No injuries reported following early morning Rock Island fire No injuries to residents or firefighters were reported following an early morning fire in Rock Island. According to a release, the Rock Island Fire Department was dispatched January 23 at 1:17 a.m. for a structure fire in the 3300 block of 25th St. Firefighters discovered a single-story home with light smoke coming from the inside. [...]
	Two Rock Island residents displaced after early Friday house fire The Rock Island Fire Department was dispatched at 1:17 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, to a report of a structure fire in the 3300 block of 25th Street.
	Designed to grow: New pediatric heart valve could spare children lifetime of surgeries (BPT) - A newborn's heart will grow roughly 15 times larger in volume by the time adulthood is reached — a remarkable transformation that presents an extraordinary challenge for pediatric heart surgeons treating congenital defects such as aortic and pulmonary valve disease.Heart defects affect approximately 1% of babies born in the United States each year, or roughly 40,000 infants. For many families, these diagnoses mark the beginning of long and arduous journeys. Children born with complex valve defects often require repeated surgeries and other treatments as their hearts grow, exposing them to risks and potential complications and their families to overwhelming emotional and financial strain.Finding a better way to treat these young patients has been a longtime goal for Minoo N. Kavarana, M.D., chief of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina and co-director of the Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital."I kept thinking about babies born with the most common congenital heart defect — bicuspid aortic valve," Kavarana said. "When infants need valve surgery in the first week of life, they often face multiple open-heart procedures and catheter-based balloon dilations over their lifetimes."While advances in postoperative care have significantly improved outcomes for pediatric heart surgery, risks still remain. And each additional operation compounds that risk."Every time we reopen a child's chest, we expose them to more trauma," Kavarana said. "That's when I started asking: 'Could we implant a valve early in life that could be expanded over time with a balloon and continue functioning into adulthood after a single operation?'"That idea — a pediatric valve stent capable of growing with a child — had the potential to change pediatric heart care, and it aligned with the culture of innovation that has earned national recognition for MUSC's program.The Pediatric Cardiology & Heart Surgery program at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital is ranked No. 4 in the nation for 2025–2026 by U.S. News & World Report, marking its fourth consecutive year in the top four and its ninth straight year in the top 12. The program is recognized for outcomes, cutting-edge technology and advanced clinical expertise, placing it among the nation's elite programs.A constructive reunionAs Kavarana searched for a solution, he got a call from a bioengineering team at Clemson University with whom he had previously collaborated. The team, led by Clemson bioengineering alumnus Lee Sierad, Ph.D., and his mentor Dan Simionescu, Ph.D., the Harriet and Jerry Dempsey Professor of Bioengineering, was developing a novel valve concept to treat congenital heart defects in infants. They had confidence in their design but needed clinical insight into how hearts grow, how valve disease evolves over time and how surgeons confront these challenges in the operating room. That led them to reconnect with MUSC and Kavarana.Kavarana helped the team to tie innovation to clinical reality, clarifying which defects mattered most and how growth patterns should inform device design."We were asking fundamental questions," Sierad recalled. "Would this look like a metal stent that expands? Should we design it for a one-month-old, a one-year-old or a 10-year-old?"Simionescu said that Kavarana's input led them to shift the design team's direction. "Historically, we take adult devices and make them smaller," he said. "That approach doesn't work for children. Pediatric patients need something that grows with them."From concept to prototypeWith vital funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Emerson Rose Heart Foundation, which was created in honor of the infant daughter of Susan and Jason Smith who passed away due to a congenital heart defect, the MUSC-Clemson collaboration led to the creation of ExpandValve, designed to evolve in tandem with a growing heart. The device is a thin metal scaffold capable of expanding from an infant-sized diameter of 10 to 12 millimeters to an adult-sized diameter of 24 millimeters (just less than an inch) through gradual, controlled balloon dilations.But allowing the valve to grow was only part of the puzzle. The team also had to account for changing blood pressures, flow dynamics and tissue response across every stage of childhood."All of the clinical data we shared helped the engineers to recreate conditions that closely mirror the human heart," Kavarana said. "They're able to test these valves in a bioreactor that simulates real physiologic environments."What comes nextIf all goes well in the simulations, the next step on the road would be proof-of-concept testing in living hearts, which must yield positive results before potential clinical trials could begin."This step is essential," Kavarana said. "If successful, this technology could dramatically reduce the cumulative trauma children experience from repeated heart surgeries and change what lifelong care looks like for families."For Kavarana and the Clemson team, the goal is clear: to replace a lifetime of repeated interventions with a future defined by fewer surgeries, fewer risks and far more hope.Learn more about the Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center at the Medical University of South Carolina at Children.MUSCHealth.org/medical-services/heart.
	Quad-City Times building for sale The former Quad-City Times building along Davenport’s riverfront has been listed for sale online for $4.2 million.
	Why does your dog get so excited about snow? Why does your dog get so excited about snow?It’s a delightful scene: The first snow of the year falls, and you get your dog all suited up to venture outside for a walk. The second they lay eyes on the winter wonderland, their ears perk up. Setting that first paw print into the snow, their snout goes into overdrive, and the seemingly endless zoomies start.You may have wondered: What is it exactly about snow that gets them going? Is it the look of it? The texture on their paws? The cold sensation? Does it do something to the scent landscape that entices their olfactory senses?Of course, not every dog responds eagerly to snow days; some positively hate the cold, can’t stand wearing booties, and go on walk strike during inclement weather. But there are those who go bananas for the white stuff. Pet advice website Kinship talked to a couple of veterinarians about what makes snowfall so appealing, plus, the safety tips you need to know to keep your abominable snowdog safe in freezing temps.They like the sensory experience.“Many dogs love anything that feels different from their daily routine,” says Dr. Ashly Smith, regional medical director for Small Door Veterinary.Dr. Smith points to the texture of snow under their paws, cool air on their skin, and the visual brightness as “sensory newness triggers” that dogs find stimulating. “Some even stomp or dig simply to recreate the crunchy sound of fresh snow underfoot because the feedback is so satisfying,” she explains.A cold dip in temperature can also cause a burst of energy in dogs, though some can get sleepier. (Just picture your dog’s activity level on a hot and humid summer day, compared to a wintery 35 degrees, and this is pretty evident.) The natural boost encourages activity like zoomies, digging, and jumping. Plus, “the buoyancy and softness of snow can make some dogs feel momentarily ‘lighter,’” she explains. If your pup transforms into a bouncy rabbit on a snowy day, you may have noticed this.They have a genetic predisposition for cold temps.Compared to a Retriever or Samoyed, your average eight-pound Chihuahua may act less than thrilled stepping outside for a snowy walk, likely cowering and beginning to shake. That’s because there is a genetic predisposition to a dog’s affinity for snow, according to Dr. Mondrian Contreras, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance.Dr. Contreras says breeds like Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are especially fond of the snow due to their thick fur coats and a history of working in cold environments as sled dogs, hunting dogs, or search-and-rescue dogs. These breeds typically don’t even need an exterior coat or sweater in the winter. Their natural double-coated fur — made up of an insulating under-layer, close to the skin, and a protective topcoat — keeps them extra toasty.Many sporting and working breeds also get excited in the snow, which they see as a prime setting for exploring and games. “I personally have a Bernese and German Shepherd mix, and she loves exploring in the snow and bringing us back ‘treats’ (typically one of my kids’ toys left in the yard),” says Dr. Contreras.Beyond breed, a preference for snow can come down to a dog's individual personality, per Dr. Smith. “Some are more curious, playful, or energetic, and snow amplifies those traits,” she says. “Others may be cautious, dislike getting wet, or simply prefer predictable environments.”They love a snowy maze of smells.Something interesting happens to the scent landscape under layers of snow.“Snow can both mute and amplify odors,” Dr. Smith explains. “Fresh snow temporarily seals off scent trails, which can make sniffing feel like a puzzle. As the snow melts or gets disturbed, new scent layers are released.”Dr. Smith describes the challenge of rooting out buried scents as “intrinsically rewarding” for many dogs.How can you keep your dog safe in the snow?Even if your dog is a natural-born snow dog, there are still safety tips you should follow to ensure their excitement doesn’t get the best of them. Dr. Contreras recommends limiting the amount of time your dog spends outside, because they can develop hypothermia and frostbite. This can vary from dog to dog and breed to breed.The aforementioned Chihuahua, for example, can safely withstand the cold for much less time than your average Husky — but keep an eye out for signs of adverse reactions to the cold, like excess shivering, slowing down or acting confused, pale or blueish skin, or feeling very cold to the touch.There’s also the salt-and-ice melt mixture that gets sprinkled on sidewalks ahead of snowstorms. It can be toxic if ingested, so putting booties on your dog or wiping their paws after walks, is key to prevent sickness. Plus, the combo of the cold snow and the chemical mixture can lead to cracked and sore paws. Dogs will often hold up a paw in mid-air because it hurts to walk on. That’s a sign it’s time to go back inside, and applying a balm or paw wax like Musher’s Secret or coconut oil, can help it heal.Keep your dogs well-hydrated; just because it's cold out doesn’t mean they need less water after exercising, particularly on very cold days when the air is dryer. And, they may need to eat more than usual: “When body temperature drops, dogs must generate more heat to stay near their core temperature,” Dr. Contreras explains. “This means it’s also important to keep them well-fed since they might also be burning a lot of calories.”This story was produced by Kinship and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	At Davos, U.S. allies question a fraying world order It was a volatile week for trans-Atlantic relations, marked by President Trump statements that unsettled global markets and strained ties with U.S. allies — on topics ranging from Greenland to Gaza.
	Catch Ms. Pat at Rhythm City Casino Spend an evening with Ms. Pat in the Rhythm City Casino Event Center on Friday, August 21 at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale to the public on January 28 at 10 a.m. and this event is intended for mature audiences ages 18+. Click here for tickets or buy them at The Market at Rhythm [...]
	Firefighters battle early morning house fire in Rock Island A family was displaced after a fire on 25th Street near 33rd Avenue in Rock Island early Friday morning.
	No injuries reported in early morning rollover crash in Davenport Police said driver got distracted and crossed the center line, rolled and hit the back of a trailer.
	Pleasant Valley School District announces finalist for superintendent replacement Next, the board will meet for a special meeting on Thursday, Jan. 29, to interview the three candidates in open session.
	The 25 best places to retire in the US in 2026, ranked by what retirees value most The 25 best places to retire in the US in 2026, ranked by what retirees value mostWhat’s the best place to retire? To answer that question, The Motley Fool surveyed 2,000 retired Americans to understand what matters most in retirement and used those insights to rank the best places to retire across the United States.Based on the survey results, The Motley Fool identified seven key retirement factors and weighted each according to retiree preferences: quality of life (31%), healthcare access and quality (15%), housing affordability (13%), crime and safety (12%), weather and climate (12%), state and local taxes (11%), and non-housing affordability (6%).These weightings were applied to secondary data from eight public and institutional datasets to calculate a final retirement score for every U.S. county, reflecting real retiree needs and preferences rather than assumptions about where people “should” retire. Counties were excluded if their population was below 40,000, their quality-of-life score was below 35, or their housing affordability score was below 35. The survey of U.S. retirees 55 years old and older was conducted by Pollfish for The Motley Fool in December 2025, and scores were computed at both the county and state levels. The survey methodology employed techniques to reflect nationally representative data based on age and gender, as well as to minimize selection bias and ensure a diverse participant pool.The Motley Fool’s Best Places to Retire list reflects what retirees value most on average, but there’s no single “right” retirement destination for everyone. The best place to retire depends on personal priorities, retirement planning, and expected retirement income. For some, that means keeping costs low so that savings and investments in their retirement accounts go further. Others may place more weight on access to amenities or choosing a more expensive location with great weather.With that in mind, here’s The Motley Fool’s Best Places to Retire list.1. Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, FloridaQuality of life: 78 \| Healthcare: 33 \| Housing: 45 \| Cost of living: 64 \| Crime: 61 \| Tax: 62 \| Climate: 88 \| Total retirement score: 64Sometimes dubbed the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale averages 246 days of sunshine and offers miles of waterfront, including Atlantic beaches and boating canals.Pros: Easy access to beaches, including Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach; year-round sunshine; outdoor activities centered around Hugh Taylor Birch State Park; and a strong cultural, shopping, and dining scene, including NSU Art Museum and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.Cons: Housing and rent costs above the national average; below-average healthcare outcomes; and crime rates that are higher than in many other communities in South Florida.2. St. Augustine, St. Johns County, FloridaQuality of life: 70 \| Healthcare: 17 \| Housing: 42 \| Cost of living: 57 \| Crime: 74 \| Tax: 64 \| Climate: 84 \| Total retirement score: 59St. Augustine offers walkability, Atlantic beaches, a thriving downtown, and a strong history as the oldest European-established settlement in the continental United States.Pros: A historic downtown offering easy access to museums, shops, and restaurants along St. George Street; outdoor activities, including birdwatching, fishing, and beach-going at Anastasia State Park and St. Augustine Beach; and a humid subtropical climate with plenty of sunshine.Cons: A hurricane-prone region means insurance is expensive and flooding risks are high, while heavy tourism means historic areas are crowded for much of the year.3. Quincy, Gadsden County, FloridaQuality of life: 41 \| Healthcare: 61 \| Housing: 63 \| Cost of living: 80 \| Crime: 61 \| Tax: 65 \| Climate: 80 \| Total retirement score: 59Quincy is a small city near Tallahassee with the feel of a classic old Florida town, an expansive historic district, and a diverse population that enjoys modest living expenses.Pros: Traditional small-town feel; a growing, diverse population; below-average cost of living; and a historic downtown including cultural attractions like the Gadsden Arts Center.Cons: Healthcare, retail, and restaurant options are more limited than in other cities, so driving to Tallahassee may be necessary; summer heat and humidity can be uncomfortable.4. Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, OhioQuality of life: 53 \| Healthcare: 43 \| Housing: 61 \| Cost of living: 79 \| Crime: 78 \| Tax: 48 \| Climate: 68 \| Total retirement score: 58Cleveland’s location on the southern shore of Lake Erie offers lakefront neighborhoods with a relatively low cost of living, while the Cleveland Clinic and UH Cleveland Medical Center ensure there’s no shortage of top-notch medical care.Pros: Below-average cost of living; affordable housing; world-class healthcare; major cultural attractions, including the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame; and outdoor lakefront recreational opportunities at Edgewater Park.Cons: Freezing and snowy winters; higher-than-average crime rates in some parts of the city; and more urban decay resulting from industrial decline than in many Sun Belt retirement destinations.5. Little Rock, Pulaski County, ArkansasQuality of life: 52 \| Healthcare: 48 \| Housing: 62 \| Cost of living: 80 \| Crime: 55 \| Tax: 56 \| Climate: 75 \| Total retirement score: 58More than just Arkansas’s capital, Little Rock offers an active downtown, an attractive riverfront, and an affordable cost of living for a mid-sized city.Pros: Plenty of restaurants and museums in the River Market District; below-average cost of living; quality healthcare options, including UAMS Medical Center; and opportunities for outdoor activity at Riverfront Park and along the Arkansas River.Cons: Sweltering summers with high humidity and many days above 90 degrees; above-average crime in some parts of the city; and low median incomes, which affect the tax base and public service funding.6. Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, PennsylvaniaQuality of life: 46 \| Healthcare: 52 \| Housing: 59 \| Cost of living: 85 \| Crime: 69 \| Tax: 53 \| Climate: 71 \| Total retirement score: 57Philadelphia offers big-city amenities, is home to numerous historical sites, and boasts a regional rail network that makes car-free living possible.Pros: Revolution-era history; home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall; a strong public transit system; top-notch healthcare at Penn Medicine; professional sports teams; and plenty of culture, including fine-dining establishments and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.Cons: Expensive property and sales tax; cold winters; and high crime in some parts of the city.7. Saint Paul, Ramsey County, MinnesotaQuality of life: 67 \| Healthcare: 27 \| Housing: 51 \| Cost of living: 79 \| Crime: 74 \| Tax: 39 \| Climate: 64 \| Total retirement score: 57Minnesota’s capital city of Saint Paul offers a robust park system, access to the cultural scene in the Twin Cities, and plenty of historic neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and affordable homes.Pros: Affordable home prices; below-average cost of living; large park system, including the Como Park complex; recreational activities like the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, and access to the Twin Cities cultural scene.Cons: Long, cold, and snowy winters; higher crime rates in some parts of the city; higher taxes than most Sun Belt states, including taxes on Social Security for higher earners; and aging public infrastructure.8. Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, WisconsinQuality of life: 54 \| Healthcare: 45 \| Housing: 55 \| Cost of living: 87 \| Crime: 72 \| Tax: 42 \| Climate: 66 \| Total retirement score: 57Milwaukee’s location on the western shore of Lake Michigan means retirees can enjoy waterfront property and plenty of outdoor activities, along with brewery tours and visits to cultural icons like the Milwaukee Art Museum.Pros: Recreational activities and community events, including Summerfest; access to decent healthcare options, including the highly ranked Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center; and a below-average cost of living, especially for a major metro area.Cons: Cold and snowy winters, including lake-effect snow; higher property tax rates than other popular retirement areas; high crime rates and urban blight in some areas, characteristic of older industrial cities.9. Miami, Miami-Dade County, FloridaQuality of life: 58 \| Healthcare: 34 \| Housing: 40 \| Cost of living: 62 \| Crime: 61 \| Tax: 63 \| Climate: 88 \| Total retirement score: 57Miami is best known for its famous shoreline and Latin-influenced culture, but it also offers a tropical climate, proximity to the Everglades, and plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining.Pros: Warm winters; world-famous neighborhoods and beaches; shopping and dining options along Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road; major sports teams, and easy access to renowned museums, including the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.Cons: Expensive housing market with high price-to-rent ratios; significant risk of extreme weather events and damage due to rising sea levels; large tourist presence can cause crowds, especially during certain times of the year.10. Armstrong County, PennsylvaniaQuality of life: 44 \| Healthcare: 37 \| Housing: 69 \| Cost of living: 90 \| Crime: 86 \| Tax: 48 \| Climate: 65 \| Total retirement score: 57Armstrong County offers the best of rural living, with low living costs, outdoor activities along the Allegheny and Kiskiminetas Rivers, and very affordable prices on housing and everyday essentials.Pros: Low housing costs and an extremely low cost of living, outdoor activities, including the Armstrong Trails, a 50-mile trail running along the Allegheny and Kiskiminetas Rivers, and very low crime.Cons: Few options for public transportation; may need to visit a larger city for medical specialists or to access more shopping and dining options than the rural location provides; cold and snowy winters can lead to icy driving conditions.11. Dallas, Dallas County, TexasQuality of life: 45 \| Healthcare: 38 \| Housing: 53 \| Cost of living: 78 \| Crime: 74 \| Tax: 60 \| Climate: 82 \| Total retirement score: 57Dallas boasts diverse neighborhoods, a strong economy, and big-city amenities while still providing a moderate cost of living.Pros: Vibrant art and culture scene, including the Dallas Museum of Art, the AT&T Performing Arts Center, and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center; Katy Trail and White Rock Lake Park offer outdoor recreation; warm winters; and average housing costs but a low cost of living, and decent tax burden.Cons: Heavy traffic along major corridors; limited public transportation outside of core areas; and extreme heat in the summers, with temperatures sometimes topping 100 degrees.12. Austin, Travis County, TexasQuality of life: 56 \| Healthcare: 24 \| Housing: 43 \| Cost of living: 69 \| Crime: 72 \| Tax: 62 \| Climate: 86 \| Total retirement score: 56Austin offers all the amenities you’d expect from the capital of Texas, including a strong music culture and plenty of outdoor recreational activities.Pros: Vibrant food and cultural scene, including many live music venues; no state income tax; the University of Texas offers community engagement and educational opportunities; access to quality healthcare options but outcomes are mixed; and extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation at Barton Springs and Lady Bird Lake Trail.Cons: Rent, housing, and other costs of living are rapidly rising; high levels of traffic congestion; above-average property taxes; a large tourist presence that creates crowds; and very hot summers with days above 100 degrees, although winters are mild.13. Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, PennsylvaniaQuality of life: 48 \| Healthcare: 31 \| Housing: 59 \| Cost of living: 85 \| Crime: 86 \| Tax: 47 \| Climate: 68 \| Total retirement score: 56Pittsburgh is a hilly city with historic neighborhoods, rich cultural attractions, and an extensive system of riverfront parks and trails.Pros: Below-average cost of living for a metro area; low housing costs; extensive park and riverfront trail system, including the Three Rivers Heritage Trail and Point State Park; Carnegie Museum, Heinz Hall, and other cultural activities; and a good public transportation system that includes buses and light rail.Cons: Hilly streets and an abundance of public staircases create mobility challenges; periodic air quality issues; above-average property taxes; economic inequality means some areas lack services; and cold winters with snowy, icy weather.14. Killeen, Bell County, TexasQuality of life: 35 \| Healthcare: 40 \| Housing: 57 \| Cost of living: 87 \| Crime: 81 \| Tax: 61 \| Climate: 85 \| Total retirement score: 56Killeen is best known for its proximity to Fort Hood and offers an easy drive to Austin and Waco while allowing retirees to live life at a slower pace.Pros: Lower housing costs and lower overall cost of living than other Texas metros; strong community built around Fort Hood; outdoor recreational activities nearby at Belton Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake; relatively mild winters; and proximity to Austin and Waco with easy freeway access.Cons: Fewer cultural opportunities and more limited entertainment options compared with larger cities; limited public transportation options; and local healthcare is limited.15. Birmingham, Jefferson County, AlabamaQuality of life: 41 \| Healthcare: 46 \| Housing: 61 \| Cost of living: 66 \| Crime: 73 \| Tax: 60 \| Climate: 75 \| Total retirement score: 56Birmingham may be a historic city, but its revitalized downtown districts offer plenty of cultural attractions along with affordable housing.Pros: Below-average cost of living, including affordable housing; downtown redevelopment means many restaurants and stores are available around Uptown and Railroad Park; outdoor recreational opportunities at Ruffner Mountain and Red Mountain Park; and milder winters than many northern states.Cons: Summers are hot and humid with frequent storms; limited access to public transportation and many areas aren’t very walkable; infrastructure is aging in some areas, and inequality means some parts of the city lack services.16. Baltimore, Baltimore City, MarylandQuality of life: 44 \| Healthcare: 58 \| Housing: 65 \| Cost of living: 69 \| Crime: 64 \| Tax: 43 \| Climate: 73 \| Total retirement score: 56Baltimore’s museums and historic districts make it a favorite for those who prioritize cultural experiences, while its Inner Harbor offers scenic views and walkable waterfront areas.Pros: Historic waterfront and harbor areas provide recreational opportunities at Inner Harbor and Fell’s Point; professional sports teams; architectural character with historic row houses; cultural activities abound, including the Baltimore Museum of Art; world-class healthcare at Johns Hopkins Hospital and University of Maryland Medical Center; and excellent public transportation, including connections to Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.Cons: Higher-than-average crime rates in certain parts of the city; rush hour traffic congestion is high; above-average property tax rates; aging infrastructure in some parts of the city; and cold winters with snowy and icy roads.17. San Marcos, Caldwell County, TexasQuality of life: 36 \| Healthcare: 47 \| Housing: 54 \| Cost of living: 74 \| Crime: 72 \| Tax: 63 \| Climate: 88 \| Total retirement score: 56Located along the San Marcos River, San Marcos offers a college-town feel as well as proximity to both Austin and San Antonio.Pros: Presence of Texas State University creates vibrant college-town feel; cost of living and housing expenses below those of nearby metros; mild winters but hot summers; easy access to both Austin and San Antonio; and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities along the San Marcos River.Cons: Limited healthcare options; influx of students during the school year can cause congestion in certain areas; flooding risks along low-lying areas; and limited dining and entertainment options.18. St. Petersburg, Pinellas County, FloridaQuality of life: 48 \| Healthcare: 34 \| Housing: 49 \| Cost of living: 72 \| Crime: 61 \| Tax: 64 \| Climate: 87 \| Total retirement score: 56St. Petersburg is home to some of the most popular Gulf beaches in Florida, and it also offers a walkable downtown and thriving arts scene.Pros: Abundant sunshine and warm winters; world-class beaches including Fort De Soto and St. Pete Beach; walkable downtown with dining and shopping options; vibrant arts scene including the Salvador Dali Museum; and an active retirement community with many events for seniors.Cons: High housing costs and very expensive homeowners’ insurance; limited public transit; flooding and hurricane risks; and crowds during many parts of the year due to tourist influx.19. Fort Worth, Tarrant County, TexasQuality of life: 42 \| Healthcare: 35 \| Housing: 52 \| Cost of living: 76 \| Crime: 74 \| Tax: 60 \| Climate: 83 \| Total retirement score: 55Fort Worth’s cost of living is lower than that of many metro areas, but it still offers big-city amenities, including the Kimbell Art Museum and the extensive Trinity Trails network for outdoor lovers.Pros: Strong Southwestern culture, including the Fort Worth stockyards; cost of living below that of many other large metros; many cultural opportunities like the Modern Art Museum and the Kimbell Art museum; DFW International Airport is very close by; and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including through river walks on Trinity Trails.Cons: Above-average property taxes; limited public transportation and lots of traffic; air quality issues; and very hot summers with long heat waves and both tornado and thunderstorm risks.20. Denver, Denver County, ColoradoQuality of life: 61 \| Healthcare: 31 \| Housing: 40 \| Cost of living: 66 \| Crime: 56 \| Tax: 62 \| Climate: 72 \| Total retirement score: 55Denver’s access to the Rocky Mountains is its claim to fame, while the city’s surprisingly mild climate makes the area ideal for outdoor lovers who want to explore its extensive parks and trail networks year-round.Pros: Proximity to the Rocky Mountains offers summer and winter recreational opportunities, including world-class skiing and hiking; the Denver Art Museum is the center of a vibrant arts and culture world; the climate is mild and sunny; decent public transportation options, including commuter and light rail lines; and access to top healthcare options like UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, although overall healthcare outcomes are mixed.Cons: Housing costs have soared in recent years; snow and ice can make winter driving difficult, especially if traveling into the mountains; air quality can suffer due to seasonal wildfires; traffic congestion is high, especially during some parts of the year; and the high altitude can worsen cardiac or respiratory conditions.21. Tampa, Hillsborough County, FloridaQuality of life: 47 \| Healthcare: 33 \| Housing: 48 \| Cost of living: 69 \| Crime: 61 \| Tax: 63 \| Climate: 86 \| Total retirement score: 55Tampa is known for warm, sunny weather, the Tampa Riverwalk, its pro sports teams, and its easy access to Gulf beaches.Pros: Waterfront recreational opportunities, including Riverwalk; access to nearby Gulf beaches; many dining and entertainment options, especially in Ybor City; a low cost of living; and no state income tax.Cons: Expensive housing and very high homeowners’ insurance costs; hurricane risk and flooding risks in many areas; crowds during tourist season, causing lots of traffic congestion; and hot, humid summers.22. Palm Bay, Brevard County, FloridaQuality of life: 44 \| Healthcare: 36 \| Housing: 50 \| Cost of living: 75 \| Crime: 61 \| Tax: 64 \| Climate: 86 \| Total retirement score: 55Palm Bay provides a suburban lifestyle with less hustle and bustle than some Florida cities, but there’s still plenty to do, including beaches, nature preserves, and outdoor activities at the nearby Indian River Lagoon.Pros: Lower housing costs than in many other Florida metro areas plus a low overall cost of living; outdoor recreational activities including Turkey Creek Sanctuary, Indian River Lagoon, and nearby Atlantic beaches; suburban lifestyle; and mild winters.Cons: Not a walkable area and few public transportation options make retirees car dependent; limited cultural, dining, and entertainment venues within city limits; and intense heat and humidity during the summer months, although winters are very mild.23. Lapeer, Lapeer County, MichiganQuality of life: 43 \| Healthcare: 32 \| Housing: 54 \| Cost of living: 80 \| Crime: 76 \| Tax: 66 \| Climate: 66 \| Total retirement score: 55Lapeer is perfect for small-town lovers with beautiful architecture, plenty of outdoor amenities, including fishing lakes, Torzewski County Park, and a historic downtown that’s home to the Lapeer Heritage Museum.Pros: Cost of living below the national average; close to Flint and Detroit for many healthcare and recreational options; small-town living with community events like farmers’ markets; and low traffic congestion.Cons: Limited access to healthcare, dining, and retail within city limits; many homes are older; car-dependent areas without much public transportation; cold and snowy winters that are characteristic of central Michigan.24. Lynchburg, Lynchburg City, VirginiaQuality of life: 43 \| Healthcare: 35 \| Housing: 58 \| Cost of living: 84 \| Crime: 85 \| Tax: 39 \| Climate: 72 \| Total retirement score: 54Lynchburg’s location at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains makes the scenery unbelievable, especially when combined with its riverfront and historic downtown districts that ooze small-town charm.Pros: Affordable housing and cost of living below national averages; attractive area with hill-country landscapes and historic architecture; revitalized downtown with riverfront districts and dining opportunities; Liberty University and University of Lynchburg create a college-town feel.Cons: Limited options for public transportation; lacks the cultural and event venues characteristic of larger cities; specialized healthcare needs may require traveling to nearby Roanoke or Charlottesville; and walkability is limited by hilly terrain.25. Lorain, Lorain County, OhioQuality of life: 43 \| Healthcare: 37 \| Housing: 57 \| Cost of living: 79 \| Crime: 78 \| Tax: 52 \| Climate: 68 \| Total retirement score: 54Located to the west of Cleveland, Lorain is a quiet lakefront community that provides beach and marina access as well as affordable housing options.Pros: Close to Cleveland for healthcare and other activities; affordable housing; below-average cost of living; access to Lake Erie’s beaches for boating, fishing, and recreation; community parks; and fun local attractions, including the Lorain Lighthouse.Cons: Few options for healthcare within city limits; older houses could require more maintenance and repairs; economic challenges may lead to limited services in some areas; limited dining and cultural attractions in town; and winters are cold and blustery.MethodologyHow The Motley Fool Identified the Best Places to Retire in AmericaChoosing where to retire is a deeply personal decision, but retirees consistently prioritize a few key needs: affordability, safety, access to healthcare, and quality of life.The Motley Fool’s Best Places to Retire Index combines secondary data about each location with primary data on what retired Americans say matters most when picking where to live.This hybrid approach creates a ranking that is both data-driven and human-centered – a methodology built by retirees for retirees.Survey-Informed WeightsThe Motley Fool surveyed 2,000 retired Americans aged 55 and above in December 2025 via Pollfish and employed a constant-sum approach (100 points), allowing respondents to clearly allocate points across the factors that mattered most to them when choosing a place to retire. Their average point allocations formed the weights given to scores for each retirement-location factor. The Motley Fool Final scores reflect what retirees value most, not what The Motley Fool assumes they value.Survey Method DetailsSurvey was conducted online on Dec. 2, 2025, via Pollfish.Survey respondents were U.S. retirees 55 years and older.Survey results were post-stratified to reflect nationally representative data based on age and gender.Pollfish employs organic random device engagement sampling, a statistical method that recruits respondents through a randomized invitation process across various digital platforms. This technique helps to minimize selection bias and ensure a diverse participant pool.How Each Factor Was ScoredScores were computed at both the county and state levels. All data were normalized on a min–max scale before applying survey weights.Each factor below includes the justification readers care about most: why it matters to retirees.Healthcare Access & QualityWhy it matters: Aging well requires reliable care, specialists, and strong healthcare outcomes. Healthcare outcomes measure whether people get healthier, live longer, and maintain a good quality of life.Sources:University of Wisconsin County Health Rankings (local outcomes & access)United Health Foundation’s 2025 Senior Report (state-level system performance)Housing AffordabilityWhy it matters: Home costs are the No. 1 expense in retirement and drive relocation decisions.Source: Zillow Home Value Index (October 2025)Counties with a housing affordability score below 35 were excluded.Nonhousing AffordabilityWhy it matters: Day-to-day expenses – food, transportation, utilities – determine how far savings stretch.Source: Economic Policy Institute Family Budget CalculatorTaxesWhy it matters: State and local tax burdens directly affect retirement income sustainability.Sources:Tax Foundation (effective tax burden)EPI Family Budget Calculator (county-level effective rates)Weather & Climate ComfortWhy it matters: Retirees seek comfortable climates that support year-round activity.Source: NOAA NCEI temperature & precipitation averages (2020–2025)Crime & SafetyWhy it matters: Personal safety ranks as a top emotional and financial priority.Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer – violent, property, and social offense ratesQuality-of-Life ComponentsRetirement isn’t only about saving money, it’s about living well.The Motley Fool measured features that enable connection, mobility, recreation, and fulfilling lifestyles: The Motley Fool Data sets were spatially aligned to counties and aggregated to states when necessary for consistency and national comparison.Counties with a quality-of-life score below 35 were excluded.Counties with a population of less than 40,000 were excluded.This story was produced by The Motley Fool and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Death Notice: Richard 'Rich' Meyer A Mass of Christian Burial for Richard Peter "Rich" Meyer, 70, of Eldridge, will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Long Grove. Burial will be in St. Ann's Cemetery. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service at the church. The Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home, Davenport, is assisting the family with arrangements. Mr. Meyer died Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf. Memorials may be made to St. Ann's Catholic Church or to the Ohl Strong Foundation to support patients and families with pancreatic cancer. Online condolences may be made at www.hmdfuneralhome.com. A full obituary will appear in the Jan. 28 edition of The NSP.
	Gladys West, mathematician whose work paved the way for GPS, dies at 95 A self-described "little farm girl" in the Jim Crow Era, Gladys West's complex and pioneering work for the U.S. Navy helped to improve billions of lives — and keep us from getting lost.
	How to build a simple mental health routine this winter (no overhaul needed) How to build a simple mental health routine this winter (no overhaul needed)Winter isn’t just a change in scenery. It’s also a shift in routine and a shock to your physiology. Short days and long nights naturally reduce access to natural light, which can influence mood and circadian rhythms. For some, this contributes to seasonal affective disorder, a form of depression linked to seasonal shifts.Even those without clinical symptoms can still experience the famous “winter blues,” which cause a drop in motivation and an increase in stress. Here are six tips from April Health to keep your spirits up this winter.1. Take 10‑minute outdoor light and movement breaksExposure to natural daylight can help regulate the circadian rhythm and counteract low winter light levels. Light therapy is one of the key treatment methods for seasonal affective disorder, according to the nonprofit academic medical center Mayo Clinic. Combining light with gentle movement, such as taking a walk around the block, can add cardiovascular benefits and a small dopamine lift to your daily life. This exercise isn’t about breaking a sweat. Rather, it’s a way to signal wakefulness to the brain through motion and daylight.If a stroll outside isn’t possible, light therapy boxes can be a potential alternative. For most people, though, taking just 10 minutes to walk around the neighborhood can make a major difference.2. Keep a gratitude or daily-wins journalGratitude journaling is a well-documented way to reduce stress and support cognitive reframing, which can lead to a more positive outlook. During the wintertime, this small reframing can matter even more. Taking the time to write three things you’re grateful for or three small wins you had every day doesn’t force toxic positivity, but instead balances the brain’s bias toward threats and stress. The American Psychological Association notes this practice is a key part of cognitive behavioral therapy, an effective method for transforming thoughts for the better.3. Take a 5‑minute mindful breathing or a body scanMindfulness practices, such as breathing exercises and body scans, can help downshift the nervous system from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest. Organizations that produce mental health resources for the winter season frequently recommend mindful breathing as a tool for coping with stress and overwhelming feelings related to the holidays. A five-minute body scan or guided breath session can help clear mental static and reduce rumination, two things that often spike during the darker months.4. Have a simple weekly social check‑inSocial withdrawal is common in wintertime, especially when the weather limits spontaneous interaction. Providers who work with seasonal affective disorder often emphasize that structured social touchpoints, like a weekly coffee with friends or a hobby group, can help to counteract isolation. Even just brief social contact can help maintain emotional regulation, reduce loneliness, and reinforce a sense of belonging.5. Practice one tiny movement ritual at homeBack to the theme of movement, you don’t need a full workout program to benefit during the winter months. Public health guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that even small intervals of physical activity support mood, sleep, and energy levels. A microhabit like 10 push-ups before a shower, a five-minute stretch while your kettle boils, or just a short yoga workout can help keep you engaged during a sedentary session, bolstering your mood.6. Embrace a calming, consistent presleep wind‑downWinter can disrupt sleep patterns due to circadian changes and holiday stress. Behavioral psychologists recommend consistent presleep routines, such as lowering lights, reading, and gentle stretching, to support the body’s natural sleep transition. Creating a “sleep boundary,” even just 20 minutes of predictable quiet, can help train the brain to anticipate rest.Improve your mood this winterWinter often asks us to slow down, biologically, socially, and psychologically. Instead of fighting that shift, microhabits give us a way to work with the season. Small exposures to light, movement, mindfulness, and connection create resilience during the darkest months of the year. For some individuals, especially those experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, professional support and clinical treatment may also be appropriate. However, for others, winter can become more manageable, perhaps even meaningful, through gentle consistency rather than dramatic change.This story was produced by April Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Murder-for-hire trial ends in acquittal after other Operation Midway Blitz cases fell apart A federal jury in Chicago on Thursday found Juan Espinoza Martinez not guilty in a murder-for-hire case alleging he solicited a $10,000 bounty on U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino.
	ICAN reschedules candidate event in Andalusia Extreme weather has caused the Illinois Conservative Action Network (I-CAN) to reschedule tonight’s meeting with candidates for state office in Andalusia. Annette Parchert, chairman of the Illinois Conservative Action Network (ICAN), spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to announce the cancelation and upcoming event dates. “The weather is so severe and we sent [...]
	Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure – but researchers are homing in on preventing it More than 18 million people worldwide suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, including nearly 1.5 million Americans. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune, inflammatory form of arthritis, meaning a person’s immune system attacks their joints, causing substantial inflammation. This inflammation can cause pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints, and in many cases, patients report fatigue and a flu-like feeling. If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to damage of the joints. But even when treated, this condition can lead to significant disability. In highly active disease or advanced stages, patient may have difficulty performing daily tasks, such as preparing food, caring for children and getting dressed. Up to now, this condition has been treated once patients have already developed symptoms. But a growing body of evidence suggests this disease can be identified earlier – and maybe even ultimately prevented. I’m a physician specializing in rheumatoid arthritis and a researcher who has conducted a clinical trial on treatments for this condition. I believe this research is moving us toward being able to identify people who are at risk for rheumatoid arthritis before the disease fully develops, and to finding treatments that will delay or prevent it altogether. My hope is that this could lead to changes in how we manage rheumatoid arthritis in the next several years. Finding the disease before it causes harm Currently, when someone visits their health care provider because they are experiencing joint pain or other symptoms of an immune attack, health care providers can make a diagnosis by examining the joints for swelling. The health care provider will also run tests to find blood markers called autoantibodies, which help in confirming the diagnosis. While not all people with rheumatoid arthritis will have abnormal blood markers, the two autoantibodies that are seen in up to 80% of people with rheumatoid arthritis are rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide. In addition to joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis affects a person’s entire immune system. But multiple studies have now confirmed that rheumatoid arthritis has a preclinical stage of development. This is a time about three to five years or longer, prior to the onset of swollen joints when markers like rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide are detectable in the blood. The presence of these markers indicates that autoimmunity is occurring, yet the body and organs are still functioning well, and a person who is at risk of getting rheumatoid arthritis may not feel sick yet. Now that researchers have identified this preclinical stage, health care providers can use markers such as autoantibodies and symptoms like prolonged early morning joint stiffness to identify people who are at risk for rheumatoid arthritis but do not yet have joint inflammation. At this point, predicting future rheumatoid arthritis is still in the research stage, although the field is working toward established ways to test for risk for rheumatoid arthritis as a routine part of health care. This is akin to how cardiovascular disease risk is assessed through measuring cholesterol levels. Ongoing research Because of advances in the ability to predict who may get rheumatoid arthritis in the future, researchers are now working on identifying treatments that can delay or prevent the full-blown condition from developing. In particular, trials have been performed in people who tested positive for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide, or who have other risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis. These risk factors include joint pain and subclinical joint inflammation, which is when an imaging study, like magnetic resonance imaging, sees joint inflammation that can’t be seen by a clinician examining the joints. To date, almost all of these trials have used immune drugs that are commonly used to treat full-blown rheumatoid arthritis, such as methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine and rituximab. Researchers have been testing whether a short course of any of these drugs could lead to a lasting reset of the immune system and prevent rheumatoid arthritis from developing. While there is not yet an approved drug for rheumatoid arthritis prevention, these studies offer hope that researchers are on track to find the right drug – as well as the right dosage and duration of that drug. Researching the preclinical stage of rheumatoid arthritis Some challenges remain to be addressed before preventive treatments become the norm in clinical care. First, researchers need to better understand the biology of the preclinical stage of disease. Until recently, most studies have focused on patients with full-blown arthritis and generally ignored people at risk for developing the disease. But now, researchers can use blood markers like anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies to identify those who are at risk much more easily. And a growing number of studies of people with this marker are informing how scientists understand the biology of rheumatoid arthritis development. In particular, it is now apparent that the preclinical stage is marked by multiple circulating immune system abnormalities in cells, autoantibodies and inflammation. The hope is that researchers will find interventions that effectively target the immune system abnormalities driving the development of rheumatoid arthritis before the patient’s joints begin to swell. Researchers are also finding that the abnormalities in the immune system during the preclinical stage may be coming from sites in the body other than the joints. An emerging idea called the mucosal origins hypothesis posits that the early autoimmunity of rheumatoid arthritis is caused by inflammation at mucosal surfaces of the body, such as the gums, the lungs and the gut. According to this theory, the joints are involved only later as the disease progresses. More research is needed, but the mucosal origins hypothesis may help explain why periodontal disease, emphysema or other forms of lung disease and exposure to tobacco or forest fire smoke are risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis. It would also explain why certain bacteria have been associated with the disease. Future trials targeting interventions to a mucosal process could help researchers better understand the nature of this disease. At some point, testing for biomarkers of rheumatoid arthritis may become routine. For now, it can still be difficult for health care providers to determine which of their patients may be at risk for rheumatoid arthritis. MoMo Productions/DigitalVision via Getty Images via The Conversation Making predictions But while biomarkers like the anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies are strongly predictive for future rheumatoid arthritis, one difficulty remains: Some people who test positive for them never develop the full-blown disease. Studies have shown that about 20% to 30% of people who are positive for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies develop rheumatoid arthritis within two to five years, although the presence of combinations of risk factors can identify people who have a greater than 50% risk for developing the condition within one year. This makes it difficult to find participants for clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis prevention. If you can’t predict who will get the disease, it’s hard to know whether you’re preventing it. So far, researchers have tried to recruit people who have already come to their health care provider with early joint symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis but still no swollen joints. That has worked well, but there are likely far more people at risk for rheumatoid arthritis who have not yet sought care. Since health care providers are not yet testing everyone for blood markers for rheumatoid arthritis, researchers will need larger, international networks that can test for risk factors like autoantibodies to identify candidates for participation in prevention trials. More needs to be done, but it’s exciting to see the field advancing toward the point where prevention may be part of routine clinical care for rheumatoid arthritis. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Kevin Deane, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Read more: Newly discovered species of bacteria in the microbiome may be a culprit behind rheumatoid arthritis Pregnancy brings unique challenges for people with autoimmune diseases – but with early planning, pregnancy outcomes can be greatly improved What is inflammation? Two immunologists explain how the body responds to everything from stings to vaccination and why it sometimes goes wrong Dr. Deane has received grant funding from the Arthritis Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, Boehringer Ingelheim, Gilead and ThermoFisher, and has had consulting/advisory board participation with Werfen, Boehringer Ingelheim, AllInBio, and Lilly. Dr. Deane also part of task forces for prediction of rheumatoid arthritis that are sponsored by the American College of Rheumatology and the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology.
	4 Your Money \| Long-Term Cycles When investors evaluate long-term stock market returns, it is helpful to look through the lens of rolling 20-year periods. Nate Kreinbrink, Financial Planner at NelsonCorp Wealth Management, shares the history of S&P 500’s returns and where the index stands now.
	Trump’s vow to arrest immigrants lifted private prison stocks. Then why did they tank? Trump’s vow to arrest immigrants lifted private prison stocks. Then why did they tank?The GEO Group and CoreCivic, the largest companies that provide detention space for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, seemed likely to reap a windfall after their stocks soared in the weeks leading up to last year’s inauguration of President Donald Trump.But while Trump’s deportation machine had explosive growth, its reach hasn’t lived up to Wall Street expectations. Stock prices for both companies slumped. Despite a series of immigration blitzes and high-profile raids, the government didn’t use as much detention space as investors expected.Detention industry experts and other observers believe all that could change this year, with the immigration system — and privately run holding facilities — expected to grow even larger.“Once Trump was elected, there was a rush and belief that all this was going to occur at the snap of a finger,” said Joe Gomes, an equity analyst for Noble Capital Markets, an investment bank. “It’s just taken a little longer than many investors thought to see these numbers really jump up,” he told The Marshall Project.On his first day in office, Trump reversed an executive order from former President Joe Biden to curb the use of private companies to operate federal prisons for the Justice Department — though they continued to be used for immigration detention. Contractors like GEO Group and its primary competitor, CoreCivic, welcomed the news. Days later, the first piece of legislation Trump signed into law, the Laken Riley Act, made it easier to detain undocumented immigrants accused of low-level crimes.At the beginning of 2025, the companies had about a dozen prison facilities sitting empty, ready to be reactivated. GEO Group, based near Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s home in Florida, seemed particularly well-suited.“This is a unique moment in our company’s history, and we believe we are well-positioned to scale up our diversified segments — in secure housing, transportation, electronic monitoring — to meet the changing needs of this new administration, and to continue to enhance value for our shareholders,” George Zoley, the Greek-born founder of GEO Group, said during a quarterly earnings call in February.By summer, Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” was signed into law, approving $170 billion in new funding for immigration enforcement.Oddly enough, the price of GEO Group’s stock, which had nearly tripled between the waning months of the presidential campaign and Inauguration Day, then plummeted. At the end of 2025, GEO Group’s stock was trading around $16 per share, down from a high of $36.46 on Trump’s second day in office. Stock prices also fell for CoreCivic, formerly known as Corrections Corporation of America.“Investors got over their skis,” said Gomes, the analyst.The Trump administration has said it intends to deport 1 million people a year. In December, the Department of Homeland Security, which includes ICE, claimed it had deported 605,000 people since Trump was elected and that an additional 1.9 million people self-deported. The department dangled financial carrots like a “free flight home for Christmas and $1,000.”Immigrant arrests climbed. In December, ICE detained 68,000 people nationwide, up from about 40,000 at the beginning of the year. That’s more than ever before on record, yet only a quarter of those people had been convicted of a crime, including low-level offenses. Another 25% had criminal cases pending.Detention capacity is still far from ICE’s stated goal of having access to more than 100,000 beds at a time to detain immigrants.Early last year, GEO Group said it expected to provide 32,000 beds for ICE, more than double the amount at the end of the Biden administration. In doing so, the firm told investors that it was likely that all of its idle prisons would be activated by the end of the year.GEO Group resumed admitting immigrants at its 1,940-bed Adelanto ICE Processing Center in California after a COVID ban was lifted. On the East Coast, in Newark, New Jersey, GEO Group’s 1,000-bed Delaney Hall Facility opened with the help of an ICE contract valued at $1 billion. In the Midwest, North Lake Processing Center, a notorious 1,800-bed facility in Baldwin, Michigan, also opened.As of Dec. 15, GEO Group had idle facilities with nearly 4,700 empty beds in California, Colorado, North Carolina and Texas, according to its report to investors.CoreCivic also ramped up, but not as quickly as investors expected. Notably, in March, the Tennessee-based firm said it resumed “operations and care” for up to 2,400 people, including families, at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas, a contract expected to generate $180 million in annual revenue.“Never in our 42-year company history have we had so much activity and demand for our services as we are seeing right now,” CoreCivic CEO Damon Hininger, a former correctional officer himself, said during an earnings call in May.At the end of September, CoreCivic reported that it had idle facilities with more than 7,000 empty beds.Adding pressure to stock prices, the federal government apprehended fewer people at the U.S. southern border, lowering the number of new arrivals to detain or monitor. Still, in December, GEO Group touted that the “alien population” in the United States holds strong at 16.8 million, citing a figure from the Federation for American Immigration Reform, a nonprofit seeking to reduce immigration. GEO Group also said that 182,000 people were being monitored in the community for ICE’s Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (down from about 370,000 under the Biden administration).Zoley said GEO Group subsidiary BI Incorporated could scale up its monitoring contract to serve millions of people for ICE.The Trump administration is also still ramping up. And investors and observers expect the system to keep growing this year.“As they expand their infrastructure — that includes officers, buildings, fleets, buses, planes, technology — then that’s when we are probably going to see more people, more numbers captured into all of this,” said Bianca Tylek, executive director of Worth Rises, a national human rights nonprofit that monitors the prison industry.The Department of Homeland Security recently signed a $140 million contract to buy planes from Boeing for deportations. Thousands of new ICE and Border Patrol agents are being recruited, with others offered $50,000 signing bonuses to come out of retirement. More local police and sheriff departments have formal agreements to support national immigration enforcement efforts.The White House and ICE see publicly traded private prison companies like GEO Group and CoreCivic as “allies and assets” to their ongoing efforts to deport many more people, said David Bier, director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank.“The contractors are the consequence of the policy choice made by this administration,” he said.And as a libertarian, he said he views illegal immigration as the consequence of a broken immigration system. He described the Trump administration’s immigration policy as “indiscriminate mass deportation.”“If you go down the list, it’s hard to find a right that they haven’t violated in the Constitution,” he said. “I find it incredibly troubling that they are getting away with it so far.”He said trying to open 100,000 ICE detention beds nationwide is an “absurd goal” that has required the government to arrest people for a far broader set of reasons than previous administrations have used.“There aren’t enough criminal immigrants in the United States that they can catch to fill those facilities, so this is all about caging a bunch of peaceful people who aren’t bothering anyone,” Bier said.He expects the Trump administration to surpass its detention bed goal.“They could easily be at 200,000 by the end of this term,” he said. “The main limitation would just be the personnel to man that. You have to find actual people willing to do this work. But in terms of just paying for it, they got way more money than they could possibly spend on this.”Gomes, the analyst, said that as ICE brings more people into work, it could improve the financial results of GEO Group and CoreCivic.“As those employees come on, you will see the number of detentions increase,” he said.This story was produced by The Marshall Project and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Feeling unprepared for the AI boom? You’re not alone Journalist Ira Glass, who hosts the NPR show “This American Life,” is not a computer scientist. He doesn’t work at Google, Apple or Nvidia. But he does have a great ear for useful phrases, and in 2024 he organized an entire episode around one that might resonate with anyone who feels blindsided by the pace of AI development: “Unprepared for what has already happened.” Coined by science journalist Alex Steffen, the phrase captures the unsettling feeling that “the experience and expertise you’ve built up” may now be obsolete – or, at least, a lot less valuable than it once was. Whenever I lead workshops in law firms, government agencies or nonprofit organizations, I hear that same concern. Highly educated, accomplished professionals worry whether there will be a place for them in an economy where generative AI can quickly – and relativity cheaply – complete a growing list of tasks that an extremely large number of people currently get paid to do. Seeing a future that doesn’t include you In technology reporter Cade Metz’s 2022 book, “Genius Makers: The Mavericks Who Brought AI to Google, Facebook, and the World,” he describes the panic that washed over a veteran researcher at Microsoft named Chris Brockett when Brockett first encountered an artificial intelligence program that could essentially perform everything he’d spent decades learning how to master. Overcome by the thought that a piece of software had now made his entire skill set and knowledge base irrelevant, Brockett was actually rushed to the hospital because he thought he was having a heart attack. “My 52-year-old body had one of those moments when I saw a future where I wasn’t involved,” he later told Metz. In his 2018 book, “Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” MIT physicist Max Tegmark expresses a similar anxiety. “As technology keeps improving, will the rise of AI eventually eclipse those abilities that provide my current sense of self-worth and value on the job market?” The answer to that question, unnervingly, can often feel outside of our individual control. “We’re seeing more AI-related products and advancements in a single day than we saw in a single year a decade ago,” a Silicon Valley product manager told a reporter for Vanity Fair back in 2023. Things have only accelerated since then. Even Dario Amodei – the co-founder and CEO of Anthropic, the company that created the popular chatbot Claude – has been shaken by the increasing power of AI tools. “I think of all the times when I wrote code,” he said in an interview on the tech podcast “Hard Fork.” “It’s like a part of my identity that I’m good at this. And then I’m like, oh, my god, there’s going to be these (AI) systems that [can perform a lot better than I can].” What will happen to workers who have spent their entire lives learning a skill that AI can replicate? jokerpro/iStock via Getty Images via The Conversation The irony that these fears live inside the brain of someone who leads one of the most important AI companies in the world is not lost on Amodei. “Even as the one who’s building these systems,” he added, “even as one of the ones who benefits most from (them), there’s still something a bit threatening about (them).” Autor and agency Yet as the labor economist David Autor has argued, we all have more agency over the future than we might think. In 2024, Autor was interviewed by Bloomberg News soon after publishing a research paper titled Applying AI to Rebuild Middle-Class Jobs. The paper explores the idea that AI, if managed well, might be able to help a larger set of people perform the kind of higher-value – and higher-paying – “decision-making tasks currently arrogated to elite experts like doctors, lawyers, coders and educators.” This shift, Autor suggests, “would improve the quality of jobs for workers without college degrees, moderate earnings inequality, and – akin to what the Industrial Revolution did for consumer goods – lower the cost of key services such as healthcare, education and legal expertise.” It’s an interesting, hopeful argument, and Autor, who has spent decades studying the effects of automation and computerization on the workforce, has the intellectual heft to explain it without coming across as Pollyannish. But what I found most heartening about the interview was Autor’s response to a question about a type of “AI doomerism” that believes that widespread economic displacement is inevitable and there’s nothing we can do to stop it. “The future should not be treated as a forecasting or prediction exercise,” he said. “It should be treated as a design problem – because the future is not (something) where we just wait and see what happens. … We have enormous control over the future in which we live, and [the quality of that future] depends on the investments and structures that we create today.” At the starting line I try to emphasize Autor’s point about the future being more of a “design problem” than a “prediction exercise” in all the AI courses and workshops I teach to law students and lawyers, many of whom fret over their own job prospects. The nice thing about the current AI moment, I tell them, is that there is still time for deliberate action. Although the first scientific paper on neural networks was published all the way back in 1943, we’re still very much in the early stages of so-called “generative AI.” No student or employee is hopelessly behind. Nor is anyone commandingly ahead. Instead, each of us is in an enviable spot: right at the starting line. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Patrick Barry, University of Michigan Read more: More than half of new articles on the internet are being written by AI – is human writing headed for extinction? What are Hollywood actors and writers afraid of? A cinema scholar explains how AI is upending the movie and TV business AI isn’t what we should be worried about – it’s the humans controlling it Patrick Barry does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Is being virtuous good for you – or just people around you? A study suggests traits like compassion may support your own well-being Virtues such as compassion, patience and self-control may be beneficial not only for others but also for oneself, according to new research my team and I published in the Journal of Personality in December 2025. Philosophers from Aristotle to al-Fārābī, a 10th-century scholar in what is now Iraq, have argued that virtue is vital for well-being. Yet others, such as Thomas Hobbes and Friedrich Nietzsche, have argued the opposite: Virtue offers no benefit to oneself and is good only for others. This second theory has inspired lots of research in contemporary psychology, which often sees morality and self-interest as fundamentally opposed. Many studies have found that generosity is associated with happiness, and that encouraging people to practice kindness increases their well-being. But other virtues seem less enjoyable. For example, a compassionate person wants to alleviate suffering or misfortune, but that requires there be suffering or misfortune. Patience is possible only when something irritating or difficult is happening. And self-control involves forgoing one’s desires or persisting with something difficult. Volunteers who drive homeless people to shelters talk with a person from Ukraine in Berlin on Jan. 7, 2026. Michael Ukas/dpa/picture alliance via Getty Images via The Conversation Could these kinds of virtues really be good for you? My colleagues and I investigated this question in two studies, using two different methods to zoom in on specific moments in people’s daily lives. Our goal was to assess the degree to which, in those moments, they were compassionate, patient and self-controlled. We also assessed their level of well-being: how pleasant or unpleasant they felt, and whether they found their activities meaningful. One study, with adolescents, used the experience sampling method, in which people answer questions at random intervals throughout the day. The other, studying adults, used the day reconstruction method, in which people answer questions about the previous day. All told, we examined 43,164 moments from 1,218 people. During situations that offer opportunities to act with compassion, patience and self-control – encountering someone in need, for example, or dealing with a difficult person – people tend to experience more unpleasant feelings and less pleasant ones than in other situations. However, we found that exercising these three virtues seems to help people cope. People who are habitually more compassionate, patient and self-controlled tend to experience better well-being. And when people display more compassion, patience and self-control than usual, they tend to feel better than they usually do. In short, our results contradicted the theory that virtue is good for others and bad for the self. They were consistent with the theory that virtue promotes well-being. Why it matters These studies tested the predictions of two venerable, highly influential theories about the relationship between morality and well-being. In doing so, they offered new insights into one of the most fundamental questions debated in philosophy, psychology and everyday life. Moreover, in the scientific study of morality, lots of research has examined how people form moral judgments and how outside forces shape a person’s moral behavior. Yet some researchers have argued that this should be complemented by research on moral traits and how these are integrated into the whole person. By focusing on traits such as patience, compassion and self-control, and their roles in people’s daily lives, our studies contribute to the emerging science of virtue. What still isn’t known One open question for future research is whether virtues such as compassion, patience and self-control are associated with better well-being only under certain conditions. For example, perhaps things look different depending on one’s stage of life or in different parts of the world. Our studies were not randomized experiments. It is possible that the associations we observed are explained by another factor – something that increases well-being while simultaneously increasing compassion, patience and self-control. Or maybe well-being affects virtue, instead of the other way around. Future research could help clarify the causal relationships. One particularly interesting possibility is that there might be a “virtuous cycle”: Perhaps virtue tends to promote well-being – and well-being, in turn, tends to promote virtue. If so, it would be extremely valuable to learn how to help people kick-start that cycle. The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Michael Prinzing, Wake Forest University Read more: Even as polarization surges, Americans believe they live in a compassionate country Transform the daily grind to make life more interesting – a philosopher shares 3 strategies to help you attain the good life What 13th-century Christian theologian Thomas Aquinas can teach us about hope in times of despair This research was made possible through the support of grants from the John Templeton Foundation (#61221, #62208). The opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the John Templeton Foundation.
	Dogs can need more than kibble, walks and love − consider the escalating expenses of their medical care before you adopt Many Americans struggle to pay for health care for themselves and other members of their families, even if they have insurance coverage. Some very big bills arise when the furriest members of their households get sick or just need an annual checkup: their dogs. Americans spend an average of about US$1,700 annually on their dogs’ food and care, including $580 for veterinary bills. All told, Americans spent more than $41 billion on their pets’ veterinary care in 2025, primarily on dogs and cats. Veterinary costs have soared in recent years, rising much faster than inflation in the past decade. The average cost of any visit to a veterinarian for a dog is about $214 today. Appointment costs for a routine examination for a dog range from $70 to $174, depending in part on the vet’s location and your dog’s conditions. Estimating future costs Aidan Vining, a Canadian public policy scholar, and I, a public policy researcher based in the U.S., considered the extent to which economics can explain our canine relationships in our 2024 book “Dog Economics.” Our own love of dogs helps us understand how people bring dogs into their lives without fully taking account of future costs. One of these often unanticipated costs is for veterinary bills that may break the family budget. Indeed, a Gallup survey of dog and cat owners conducted for PetSmart Charities in 2024 and 2025 found that 42% of respondents had declined veterinary care for their pets because they could not afford it. In the same study, an additional 38% declined care because they did not believe it was worth the cost. I think that people should consider the risk of bearing these costs before bringing a dog into the family. Part of the family Between 60 million and 68 million U.S. households include at least one dog. That means that as many as half of all occupied U.S. homes include a dog. Most families with dogs revere them. A survey I conducted with colleagues in 2018 found that 73% of people with pet dogs strongly agreed with the statement “I consider my pets to be part of the family.” A 2023 Pew Research Center survey found that 51% of pet owners viewed their animals as being as much a member of their family as their human relatives. Because many of us will spend whatever we can to save the life of our family members, being unable to afford lifesaving care for dogs can be very upsetting. Steep veterinarian bills But sometimes dogs require very expensive care. And veterinarians in cities where the costs of living are high tend to charge more than elsewhere. Treating some fairly common dog ailments can cost a bundle: as much as $3,000 for gastroenteritis, $7,000 for intestinal obstruction surgery, $5,000 for severe pancreatitis and $8,000 for stomach bloat. The tab for canine cancer treatments involving chemotherapy or radiation can set you back more than $10,000. The initial phase of treatment for immune-mediated hemolytic anemia for my family’s poodle, for example, cost more than $10,000 in veterinary costs. She is doing well but needs continuing medical care. Ming, the author’s family poodle, needs continuing veterinary care. Dave Weimer Sometimes pooches require overnight veterinary supervision. That can cost you as much as $1,500 per night they spend in an animal hospital on top of those other expenses. Many Americans cannot afford to pay for such expensive care – only 41% could cover a $1,000 unanticipated expense of any kind from their savings. Although only a stopgap,there are charities that provide free or lower-cost veterinary care for the pets of low-income people? Insurance coverage is rare and often falls short Pet insurance can help make these expenses more manageable, but it covers only about 4.9 million dogs – about 8% of all American dogs. Most of those policies have deductibles you have to meet before they’ll reimburse you for at least part of the cost of your animal’s care. Some policies cover treatment only for accidents. Many exclude routine checkups and impose caps on total claims, typically at $5,000. Ironically, people who can most easily afford pet insurance are also the most likely to have enough money to pay for veterinary expenses. Insurance premiums for dogs, which depend on breed, where you live, their age and coverage terms, average about $62 per month. Premiums that cover well visits and either have high caps – annual limits on what you can be reimbursed through pet insurance policies – or no caps at all cost more than that. And pet insurers may exclude preexisting conditions. That is, unlike human patients protected by the Affordable Care Act, insurers can decline to cover dogs with prior illnesses. To be sure, some claims of over $60,000 have been paid by insurers through policies without any claim caps. But in most cases, it’s clear that having a dog can mean you’ll bear substantial financial risks when your dog gets injured or ill. And that’s true whether or not you’re paying pet insurance premiums throughout its lifetime – which on average lasts about a dozen years. Going into debt to pay the vet Americans who do pay big veterinary bills often have to borrow to do so – 39% of pet owners say they have gone into debt to pay for veterinary care, according to a survey conducted by MetLife’s pet insurance division. Even when they can afford those bills, many families often find providing care demanding and difficult to accommodate, given their work schedules and the caregiving that other relatives require. People who cannot afford the cost or lack the time to provide their dogs with the veterinary care required may choose to euthanize, give their dogs to someone else – known as rehoming – or surrender them to shelters. There’s no reliable data about this but I’m certain that veterinary issues contribute to the 6% of the pet surrenders that happen for financial reasons. And these surrenders contribute to the over 330,000 dogs that U.S. shelters euthanize each year. 3 considerations before acquiring dogs Although dogs can enrich your life with their devotion and companionship, I urge anyone considering bringing a dog into your home to think through these financial issues first. 1. The potential cost of veterinary care for dogs is high and likely to increase. Veterinary science will continue to develop new treatments, and some inevitably will be very expensive. As a result, dog owners will more often face heartbreaking choices between extending the life of an animal they consider to be a family member and destabilizing their own finances. 2. Like your human relatives, dogs tend to have more medical problems as they age. Most people with dogs will outlive their pets and will eventually have to confront canine medical problems. In other words, veterinary costs will at some point challenge almost all pet parents. 3. Whether or not our relatives want to get expensive medical care, we usually err on the side of providing whatever we can afford unless they demand a switch to palliative care only. Despite our emotional bonds with our dogs, they cannot tell us how they feel about the trade-off between quality of life and longevity. We should not ignore their suffering even when we can afford extensive veterinary care. Sometimes, euthanasia is the most loving decision. Those facing these difficult end-of-life decisions may benefit from seeking out veterinary palliative and hospice care, which is increasingly available. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: David L. Weimer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Read more: Raccoons break into liquor stores, scale skyscrapers and pick locks – studying their clever brains can clarify human intelligence, too Your dog’s nose knows no bounds – and neither does its love for you Thousands of genomes reveal the wild wolf genes in most dogs’ DNA David L. Weimer does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Your brain can be trained, much like your muscles – a neurologist explains how to boost your brain health If you have ever lifted a weight, you know the routine: challenge the muscle, give it rest, feed it and repeat. Over time, it grows stronger. Of course, muscles only grow when the challenge increases over time. Continually lifting the same weight the same way stops working. It might come as a surprise to learn that the brain responds to training in much the same way as our muscles, even though most of us never think about it that way. Clear thinking, focus, creativity and good judgment are built through challenge, when the brain is asked to stretch beyond routine rather than run on autopilot. That slight mental discomfort is often the sign that the brain is actually being trained, a lot like that good workout burn in your muscles. Think about walking the same loop through a local park every day. At first, your senses are alert. You notice the hills, the trees, the changing light. But after a few loops, your brain checks out. You start planning dinner, replaying emails or running through your to-do list. The walk still feels good, but your brain is no longer being challenged. Routine feels comfortable, but comfort and familiarity alone do not build new brain connections. As a neurologist who studies brain activity, I use electroencephalograms, or EEGs, to record the brain’s electrical patterns. Research in humans shows that these rhythms are remarkably dynamic. When someone learns a new skill, EEG rhythms often become more organized and coordinated. This reflects the brain’s attempt to strengthen pathways needed for that skill. Your brain trains in zones too For decades, scientists believed that the brain’s ability to grow and reorganize, called neuroplasticity, was largely limited to childhood. Once the brain matured, its wiring was thought to be largely fixed. But that idea has been overturned. Decades of research show that adult brains can form new connections and reorganize existing networks, under the right conditions, throughout life. Some of the most influential work in this field comes from enriched environment studies in animals. Rats housed in stimulating environments filled with toys, running wheels and social interaction developed larger, more complex brains than rats kept in standard cages. Their brains adapted because they were regularly exposed to novelty and challenge. Human studies find similar results. Adults who take on genuinely new challenges, such as learning a language, dancing or practicing a musical instrument, show measurable increases in brain volume and connectivity on MRI scans. The takeaway is simple: Repetition keeps the brain running, but novelty pushes the brain to adapt, forcing it to pay attention, learn and problem-solve in new ways. Neuroplasticity thrives when the brain is nudged just beyond its comfort zone. Tasks that stretch your brain just beyond its comfort zone, such as knitting and crocheting, can improve cognitive abilities over your lifespan – and doing them in a group setting brings an additional bonus for overall health. Dougal Waters/DigitalVision via Getty Images via The Conversation The reality of neural fatigue Just like muscles, the brain has limits. It does not get stronger from endless strain. Real growth comes from the right balance of challenge and recovery. When the brain is pushed for too long without a break – whether that means long work hours, staying locked onto the same task or making nonstop decisions under pressure – performance starts to slip. Focus fades. Mistakes increase. To keep you going, the brain shifts how different regions work together, asking some areas to carry more of the load. But that extra effort can still make the whole network run less smoothly. Neural fatigue is more than feeling tired. Brain imaging studies show that during prolonged mental work, the networks responsible for attention and decision-making begin to slow down, while regions that promote rest and reward-seeking take over. This shift helps explain why mental exhaustion often comes with stronger cravings for quick rewards, like sugary snacks, comfort foods or mindless scrolling. The result is familiar: slower thinking, more mistakes, irritability and mental fog. This is where the muscle analogy becomes especially useful. You wouldn’t do squats for six hours straight, because your leg muscles would eventually give out. As they work, they build up byproducts that make each contraction a little less effective until you finally have to stop. Your brain behaves in a similar way. Likewise, in the brain, when the same cognitive circuits are overused, chemical signals build up, communication slows and learning stalls. But rest allows those strained circuits to reset and function more smoothly over time. And taking breaks from a taxing activity does not interrupt learning. In fact, breaks are critical for efficient learning. Overdoing any task, whether it be weight training or sitting at the computer for too long, can overtax the muscles as well as the brain. Halfpoint Images/Moment via Getty Images via The Conversation The crucial importance of rest Among all forms of rest, sleep is the most powerful. Sleep is the brain’s night shift. While you rest, the brain takes out the trash through a special cleanup system called the glymphatic system that clears away waste and harmful proteins. Sleep also restores glycogen, a critical fuel source for brain cells. And importantly, sleep is when essential repair work happens. Growth hormone surges during deep sleep, supporting tissue repair. Immune cells regroup and strengthen their activity. During REM sleep, the stage of sleep linked to dreaming, the brain replays patterns from the day to consolidate memories. This process is critical not only for cognitive skills like learning an instrument but also for physical skills like mastering a move in sports. On the other hand, chronic sleep deprivation impairs attention, disrupts decision-making and alters the hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism. This is why fatigue drives sugar cravings and late-night snacking. Sleep is not an optional wellness practice. It is a biological requirement for brain performance. Exercise feeds the brain too Exercise strengthens the brain as well as the body. Physical activity increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF, a protein that acts like fertilizer for neurons. It promotes the growth of new connections, increases blood flow, reduces inflammation and helps the brain remain adaptable across one’s lifespan. This is why exercise is one of the strongest lifestyle tools for protecting cognitive health. Train, recover, repeat The most important lesson from this science is simple. Your brain is not passively wearing down with age. It is constantly remodeling itself in response to how you use it. Every new challenge and skill you try, every real break, every good night of sleep sends a signal that growth is still expected. You do not need expensive brain training programs or radical lifestyle changes. Small, consistent habits matter more. Try something unfamiliar. Vary your routines. Take breaks before exhaustion sets in. Move your body. Treat sleep as nonnegotiable. So the next time you lace up your shoes for a familiar walk, consider taking a different path. The scenery may change only slightly, but your brain will notice. That small detour is often all it takes to turn routine into training. The brain stays adaptable throughout life. Cognitive resilience is not fixed at birth or locked in early adulthood. It is something you can shape. If you want a sharper, more creative, more resilient brain, you do not need to wait for a breakthrough drug or a perfect moment. You can start now, with choices that tell your brain that growth is still the plan. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, University of Pittsburgh Read more: Why ‘unwinding’ with screens may be making us more stressed – here’s what to try instead Eating less ultraprocessed food supports healthier aging, new research shows Wearing a weighted vest can promote bone health and weight loss, but it’s not a cure-all Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	Iowa House passes bill banning use of eminent domain for carbon pipelines The legislation would prohibit companies from using eminent domain to obtain land for pipelines designed to transport carbon dioxide.
	The Botanical Center keeps temperatures in low 80's for tropical plants The Botanical Center keeps tropical plants thriving during the winter months with temperature and humidity control, with temperatures in the 80's.
	Federal transportation funding, CDL enforcement, and capacity signals are reshaping the freight market for 2026 Federal transportation funding, CDL enforcement, and capacity signals are reshaping the freight market for 2026While many supply chain leaders focused on the peak shopping season, holiday sales, and returns, transportation policy and freight market dynamics continued to move quickly. Over the past month, a series of announcements from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), along with emerging capacity signals in the trucking market, point to a more regulated, infrastructure-heavy, and less forgiving freight environment for 2026.Looking at the whole picture, these recent developments highlight a clear reality for shippers: Transportation planning is becoming more complex, and the margin for error is narrowing.On Dec. 30, 2025, the DOT announced more than $118 million in grant funding through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to strengthen Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) oversight, enforcement, and training. The initiative, announced by Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, focuses on keeping unqualified drivers off the road while improving nationwide safety outcomes.The implications for shippers are mixed. While stronger enforcement and improved training support long-term safety and stability, tighter oversight can restrict driver availability in certain regions or corridors, especially where compliance gaps already exist.“This investment reinforces that compliance and safety are no longer optional variables in freight planning but are foundational to capacity availability,” said David Stone, director of transportation at WSI. “As enforcement tightens, shippers need to understand where capacity may thin and plan accordingly.” WSI examines what is impacting the freight market this year.CDL compliance disputes could disrupt driver supplyIn addition to the new funding, the DOT has also indicated continued scrutiny of state-level CDL programs. Public statements made around potential funding withdrawals tied to CDL issuance standards create an ongoing regulatory wildcard for the trucking industry.Freight stakeholders are less concerned about a single enforcement action and more about uneven implementation across states. Differences in how CDL standards are enforced can create regional imbalances in driver availability, especially when legal challenges or policy reversals delay clarity.Freight brokers will play a critical role in monitoring these developments and adjusting carrier strategies in real time, something that is increasingly difficult for shippers to manage internally as regulatory signals shift.Nearly $1B in roadway safety funding aims to accelerate infrastructure upgradesJust days before the CDL announcement, the DOT announced nearly $1 billion in funding for roadway safety improvements through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. The funding supports 521 projects across 48 states, tribal communities, and Puerto Rico, with a focus on reducing serious injuries and fatalities.The projects include intersection redesigns, roundabouts, pedestrian and cyclist safety improvements, upgraded emergency communications, and traffic incident management facilities. According to the Department, the program was streamlined to accelerate funding deployment and remove application barriers that previously slowed project approvals.For freight networks, infrastructure investment is a long-term positive but not without near-term friction.“Infrastructure upgrades ultimately improve reliability, but during construction phases they introduce temporary chokepoints,” said Stone. “Those disruptions can create unpredictable transit times if shippers aren’t proactively routing freight around active projects.”Capacity tightens as equipment orders hit historic lowsAt the same time regulatory pressure is increasing, structural capacity indicators suggest the U.S. trucking market is operating with less built-in slack than in prior years. According to reporting from FreightWaves in early January, executives at Uber Freight note that tractor and trailer orders remain down double digits year over year.The slowdown is especially pronounced in:Class 8 sleeper tractors, which are essential for long-haul capacity.Dry van trailers, a cornerstone of general freight movement.Refrigerated trailers, which support food, beverage, and pharmaceutical supply chains.Low equipment orders signal limited near-term fleet expansion, even as demand fluctuates. Carrier exits over the past two years have further reduced the industry’s ability to absorb sudden surges.This dynamic creates what freight leaders describe as “less buffer during demand spikes.” In practice, that buffer loss affects both sides of the market.For carriers, fewer spare tractors and trailers mean less flexibility to add capacity during seasonal or promotional surges. For shippers, it translates into higher exposure to spot market volatility, tighter tender acceptance, and reduced service consistency when volumes rise unexpectedly.Cross-border freight with Mexico offers relief but brings complexityDespite tightening domestic capacity, cross-border freight between the U.S. and Mexico is emerging as a stabilizing force. FreightWaves also highlighted that Uber Freight data shows Mexican exports to the U.S. are up roughly 15% in recent months, driven by sustained manufacturing activity and supply chain adjustments related to tariffs and sourcing strategies.Cross-border flows are helping to offset softness in other segments of the trucking market. However, they also introduce added complexity around customs compliance, security, and contingency planning.“Shippers moving cross-border freight are planning for disruptions as a baseline assumption,” Stone said. “That includes alternate ports of entry, backup carriers, and clear documentation to avoid delays.”Freight brokerage in 2026Between the convergence of policy changes, infrastructure projects, enforcement actions, and capacity constraints, freight brokerage is shifting from a transactional role to a strategic one.Modern freight brokers provide:Scenario-based capacity planning across soft and tight marketsAccess to compliant, vetted carrier networksAlternate routing strategies during infrastructure disruptionsReal-time regulatory and market intelligenceStone said, “Shippers that rely on a single forecast or a static carrier strategy are exposed in this market. Flexibility and visibility are what protect service levels when conditions change quickly.”Looking aheadFederal investments in safety and infrastructure show a long-term commitment to improving the transportation system. In the near term, however, shippers face a more regulated, capacity-constrained, and operationally complex freight environment.As 2026 approaches, transportation strategies built around compliance, adaptability, and expert brokerage support will be better positioned to navigate what comes next.This story was produced by WSI and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Your guide to Oscar-nominated movies and where to watch them There are a lot of films and we are here to help! We've assembled details and coverage for the 14 films nominated in six major categories — all in one place.
	Extreme Cold Warning until FRI 12:00 PM CST Extreme Cold Warning and Advisory in Effect: Dangerous Wind Chills
	Davenport man sentenced to three years for firearm as a felon A Davenport man was sentenced January 20 to three years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. According to public court documents, Areion Watson, 29, had a loaded pistol, which was recovered during a traffic stop. Watson fled on foot during the stop. Watson was prohibited from possessing firearms because he was [...]
	How Dolly Parton’s ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’ reminds us why hope matters How Dolly Parton’s ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’ reminds us why hope mattersHope is more than just a feeling. It serves as a psychological anchor, provides a way to cope and acts as a force that influences how we move through difficult chapters. In the spirit of renewed optimism, Dolly Parton rereleased her beloved classic “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” in 2026, describing it as a song she originally wrote when she was “searching for hope.” A message, she says, “still feels just as true” 50 years later.LifeStance Health reports how Parton’s message resonates with the core of positive psychology: Hope is a tool that helps us believe in possibilities beyond the present moment. Whether individuals are rebuilding after loss, navigating uncertainty or simply trying to make sense of the world, hope and optimism may fundamentally shift the emotional landscape of our lives.Why hope is psychologically powerfulWhen Parton wrote “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” in 1976, she was emerging from a painful professional rupture and needed reassurance that things would get better. She has called the song her “song of deliverance,” a reflection of finally seeing the metaphorical sun after a long, dark night.Some modern mental health research supports what Parton captured emotionally.1. Hope reduces feelings of helplessnessPeople who maintain hope during difficult circumstances experience lower levels of anxiety and depression. Hope helps individuals feel more capable of facing challenges.2. Optimism strengthens emotional resilienceOptimistic people aren’t blindly positive; they believe they can influence outcomes. That belief improves coping strategies and stress tolerance.3. Hope encourages forward movementParton herself described the new version as her way of “shining a little light forward.” When individuals expect the possibility of a better tomorrow, they’re more likely to take steps that make that tomorrow real.The symbolism of a ‘Clear Blue Morning’The imagery in the song, darkness lifting, a horizon opening, reflects how our brains respond to hope. Symbolic representations of light have long aligned with psychological renewal. When Parton revisits this song in 2026 with a message of reassurance, she taps into a universal emotional truth: recognizing the start of a new chapter may be profoundly healing.How music reinforces hopeThe new version of the song features Lainey Wilson, Miley Cyrus, Queen Latifah and Reba McEntire; voices that add dimension, emotional warmth and generational harmony. Parton has emphasized that these collaborators help her “bring that hope to life again.”Psychologically, this matters:Music activates emotional memory. Songs tied to resilience can help revive emotional strength felt before.Harmonies enhance emotional bonding. Hearing multiple voices join in one message can increase feelings of unity and shared humanity.Lyrics offer cognitive reframing. Lines like, “I can see the light of a clear blue morning” may encourage listeners to imagine relief and renewal, which can help reshape emotional patterns.Hope as an ongoing practiceHope is a skill that can be cultivated. Here’s how many individuals intentionally nurture hope and optimism.1. Look for ‘clear blue morning’ momentsIdentify small signs of progress. These markers retrain the brain to anticipate good outcomes.2. Revisit stories of resilienceParton’s own journey, turning pain into creativity and reconnecting with her song 50 years later, shows how experiences can transform over time.3. Use music as emotional scaffoldingChoose songs that help with feeling grounded, uplifted or understood. Music can be a therapeutic tool for emotional regulation.4. Share hope with othersJust as Parton invited multiple artists to carry this song’s message forward, expressing hope aloud can strengthen it for the individual and the people around them.A new morning for allDolly Parton’s 2026 rerelease of “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” feels less like a nostalgic tribute and more like a reminder that hope is timeless, renewable and worth tending to, regardless of age.References to Dolly Parton and other artists in this article are for informational and cultural context only. LifeStance does not endorse or promote any specific artist, song, or musical work.This story was produced by LifeStance Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport man sentenced to 3 years in federal gun case A Davenport man was sentenced in to three years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon.
	Iowa Republican gubernatorial candidates share priorities in QCA campaign forum Four Republican candidates running to be Iowa's next governor shared their priorities if elected during a campaign forum in Eldridge, covering a lot of issues that need answers. Our Quad Cities News reporter Gavin Waidelich tracks the event for Your Local Election Headquarters.
	Luke Bryan to perform at Vibrant Arena Luke Bryan's, "World on the Street Tour" is coming to Vibrant Arena.
	Planning life after high school isn’t easy: 4 tips for students and their families Planning life after high school isn’t easy: 4 tips for students and their familiesMany high school seniors are now focusing on what they will do once they graduate — or on the fact that they don’t at all know what is to come.Families trying to guide and support these students at the juncture of a major life transition likely also feel nervous about the open-ended possibilities, including starting at a standard four-year college or not attending college at all.Writing in The Conversation, Purdue University psychology professor Shannon Pickett, a mental health counselor, shares four tips to help make deciding what comes after high school a little easier for everyone involved.1. Shadow someone with a job you might wantMany college students are interested in a particular career path, but are not familiar with the job’s day-to-day workings.A parent, teacher or another adult in this student’s life could connect them with someone they shadow at work, even for a day, so the student can better understand what the job entails.High school students may also find that interviewing someone who works in a particular field is another helpful way to narrow down career path options or finalize their college decisions.Research published in 2025 shows that high school students who complete an internship are better able to decide whether certain careers are a good fit for them.2. Look at the numbersFull-time students can pay anywhere from about $4,000 for in-state tuition at a public state school per semester to just shy of $50,000 per semester at a private college or university. The average annual cost of tuition alone at a public college or university in 2025 is $10,340, while the average tuition cost at a private school is $39,307.Tuition continues to rise, though the rate of growth has slowed in the past few years.About 56% of 2024 college graduates had taken out loans to pay for college.Concerns about affording college often come up with clients who are deciding on whether or not to get a degree. Research has shown that financial stress and debt load are leading to an increase in students dropping out of college.It can be helpful for some students to look at tuition costs and project what their monthly student loan payments would be like after graduation, given the expected salary range in particular careers. Financial planning could also help students consider the benefits and drawbacks of public, private, community colleges or vocational schools.Even with planning, there is no guarantee that students will be able to get a job in their desired field, or quickly earn what they hope to make. No matter how prepared students might be, they should recognize that there are still factors outside their control.3. Normalize other kinds of schoolsSome students feel they should go to a four-year college right after they graduate because it is what their families expect. There are students and parents who see a four-year college as more prestigious than a two-year program, and believe it is more valuable in terms of long-term career growth.That isn’t the right fit for everyone, though.Enrollment at trade-focused schools increased almost 20% from the spring of 2020 through 2025, and now comprises 19.4% of public two-year college enrollment.Going to a trade school or seeking a two-year associate’s degree can put students on a direct path to get a job in a technical area, such as becoming a registered nurse or electrician.But there are also reasons for students to think carefully about trade schools.In some cases, trade schools are for-profit institutions and have been subjected to federal investigation for wrongdoing. Some of these schools have been fined and forced to close.Still, it is important for students to consider which path is personally best for them.Research has shown that job satisfaction has a positive impact on mental health, and having a longer history with a career field leads to higher levels of job satisfaction.4. Consider a gap year before shutting down the ideaOne strategy that high school graduates have used in recent years is taking a year off between high school and college in order to better determine what is the right fit for a student. Approximately 2% to 3% of high school graduates take a gap year — typically before going on to enroll in college.Some young people may travel during a gap year, volunteer, or get a job in their hometown.Whatever the reason students take gap years, the time off can be beneficial in certain situations. Taking a year off before starting college has also been shown to lead to better academic performance in college.This story was produced by The Conversation and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	An AI judge, a time-traveling 10-year-old and more in theaters In a not-too-distant future, an artificial intelligence entity determines the fate of the accused in Mercy, starring Chris Pratt and Rebecca Ferguson.
	New technology Center reopens at Muscatine Community College Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) celebrated the completion and reopening of the Muscatine Technology Center (MTC) with a ribbon cutting on January 22. MTC, located at 152 Colorado Street in Muscatine, on the Muscatine Community College (MCC) campus, added over 5,000 square feet of state-of-the-art lab and classroom space. This significantly increases the capacity for EICC’s welding and [...]
	Be My Valentine Sweepstakes 2026 Rules Complete rules for the Be My Valentine Sweepstakes
	Why auto insurance might not cover major losses Why auto insurance might not cover major lossesMost drivers operate under a sense of security provided by a monthly premium. There is a common assumption that as long as a car insurance policy is active, the financial consequences of a collision or theft are managed. However, the reality of insurance contracts is that they are designed to cover specific risks within rigid boundaries. When a catastrophic event occurs, policyholders frequently discover that the gap between their actual loss and their insurance payout is much wider than anticipated.Cheap Insurance explains why these shortfalls happen and looks into the mechanics of depreciation, policy exclusions, and the limits of liability.The Reality of Actual Cash ValueThe most significant factor in insurance shortfalls is the distinction between what a vehicle is worth to the owner and what it is worth to the insurance market. Most standard policies are written based on Actual Cash Value (ACV). This represents the cost of the vehicle minus depreciation.Vehicles are rapidly depreciating assets. From the moment a car is driven off the dealership lot, the market value begins to drop. If a vehicle is totaled three years into ownership, the insurer will only provide a check for the current market value of that specific make, model, and mileage. This amount is rarely enough to purchase a brand-new equivalent, leaving the owner to fund the difference for a replacement.The Danger of the Financing GapFor those who finance or lease their vehicles, depreciation creates a specific financial peril: being underwater on a loan. Because cars lose value faster than most loan principals are paid down, a total loss can result in a payout that is lower than the remaining balance owed to the bank.Without a specific endorsement known as gap insurance, the owner remains legally responsible for paying the remainder of the loan for a vehicle that no longer exists. This is a primary example of how a major loss can transform from a physical inconvenience into a long-term debt burden.Liability Limits and Catastrophic DamagesWhile damage to the vehicle is a concern, the greatest financial threats usually stem from liability. Most states require a minimum amount of liability coverage, but these figures are often stuck in the past, failing to account for modern medical costs and vehicle prices.If a driver is found at fault for an accident involving multiple vehicles or serious injuries, the costs can easily exceed standard policy limits.Medical Expenses: A single week in intensive care or a series of complex surgeries can quickly surpass a $50,000 or $100,000 policy limit.Legal Fees: If the injured party sues for pain and suffering or lost wages, the insurer only defends the policyholder up to the limits of the contract.Property Damage: If an accident involves a luxury vehicle or public infrastructure, a $25,000 property damage limit is often insufficient.Once the insurance company pays out the maximum limit defined in the policy, the individual is personally responsible for the remaining balance. This can lead to the seizure of assets or the garnishment of future wages.Minimum Liability Limits are different in each state.AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawai’iIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingRegional Variations in Coverage and RiskThe geographical location of a driver significantly impacts the likelihood of a coverage gap. Liability laws and weather patterns vary from the rugged terrain of Alaska to the coastal risks of Florida. For instance, drivers in California, Texas, and New York often face higher litigation costs, making standard liability limits insufficient. Meanwhile, those in Michigan must navigate unique no-fault insurance structures that differ greatly from the tort systems found in Ohio or Pennsylvania.In the Southeast, motorists in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina frequently deal with different appraisal hurdles than those in Virginia or Maryland. Similarly, the risk of total loss due to environmental factors like hail or flooding is a primary concern for residents in Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa.State-specific mandates also dictate how much protection a driver carries by default. A policy that meets the legal requirements in Mississippi, Alabama, or Louisiana might leave a traveler vulnerable if they have an accident while driving through Illinois or Indiana. Those moving between New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts often find that urban density increases the probability of multivehicle claims that exceed basic property damage caps.In the West, expansive highway systems in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico contribute to high-speed collisions that result in more severe physical damage than the lower-speed traffic found in Rhode Island or Delaware. Drivers in Washington and Oregon must also account for seasonal hazards that can impact vehicle valuation differently than in Utah, Idaho, or Montana.Whether operating a vehicle in the heart of Missouri, Arkansas, and Kentucky, or traversing the northern landscapes of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota, the local legal environment dictates the payout. Even in smaller markets like West Virginia, New Hampshire, Maine, or Vermont, the cost of specialized labor can vary. From the islands of Hawai’i to the plains of South Dakota, understanding local statutes is the only way to ensure a policy truly covers the scope of a potential loss.Hidden Exclusions in the Fine PrintEven comprehensive car insurance policies contain exclusions that can catch policyholders off guard. Many people assume that if a vehicle is damaged, the cause is irrelevant. However, insurers are very specific about what constitutes a covered peril.Business Use of Personal VehiclesWith the rise of the gig economy, many individuals use their personal cars for delivery services or ride-sharing. Standard personal auto policies almost universally exclude coverage for accidents that occur while the vehicle is being used for profit. Unless a specific commercial rider is added, a major loss during a delivery shift could result in a total denial of the claim.Modification and Custom EquipmentAftermarket upgrades, such as custom wheels, high-end audio systems, or performance modifications, are generally not covered unless they are specifically appraised and added to the policy. If a vehicle with $10,000 in modifications is stolen, the insurer will likely only pay for the value of the factory-standard parts.The Impact of Inflation on Repair CostsThe cost of repairing vehicles has risen sharply due to the complexity of modern automotive technology. Vehicles are now equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including sensors, cameras, and radar units. A minor fender bender that once required a simple bumper replacement now involves recalibrating sophisticated electronics.Insurance premiums do not always keep pace with the hyperinflation of specialized labor and parts. If a policy has a low cap on labor rates or specifies the use of aftermarket parts, the owner may find that the preferred repair shop charges significantly more than the insurer is willing to pay. This creates an out-of-pocket expense even for a covered claim.Steps to Bridge the Coverage GapTo avoid these financial pitfalls, it is necessary to move beyond the minimum requirements and evaluate personal risk.Increase Liability Limits: Moving from state minimums to higher limits, such as $250,000/$500,000, is often surprisingly affordable and provides a much sturdier shield against lawsuits.Evaluate Umbrella Insurance: For those with significant assets to protect, an umbrella policy provides an extra layer of liability coverage that kicks in after the auto policy is exhausted.Review Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost: While rare in standard auto insurance, some specialty insurers offer agreed value or replacement cost coverage, which is essential for classic cars or brand-new luxury vehicles.Add Specific Endorsements: Ensure that any business use, custom equipment, or gap coverage needs are explicitly written into the policy.Auto insurance is a tool for risk management, but it is not a catch-all solution. By identifying where a policy ends and personal liability begins, a driver can take proactive steps to ensure that a bad day on the road does not turn into a lifelong financial crisis.This story was produced by CheapInsurance.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Burlington seeks input on community trail extension Burlington needs your input on a new community trail extension. The city was awarded $875,000 in grant funding to advance a planned extension of the community trail network between Summer Street and Madison Avenue. The funding includes $750,000 from the Statewide Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and $125,000 from a REAP grant. Construction is expected to [...]
	How to prevent AI slop from costing your business How to prevent AI slop from costing your businessArtificial intelligence in the workplace offers compelling benefits, such as faster execution, increased output, and better-informed decision-making. However, as organizations rush to implement AI, they often discover that speed and efficiency alone don’t translate into effective outcomes. Without the right guardrails and processes in place, overreliance on technology can introduce AI slop, which undermines productivity, trust, and quality.In this article, Upwork, an online marketplace for hiring skilled freelancers, explains what AI slop is, the hidden costs of limited oversight, and how to maintain both productivity and quality while incorporating AI into your business.What Is AI slop?AI slop is output generated by artificial intelligence that seems adequate on the surface but falls short in substance. Outputs may include reports, presentations, messages, or code that appear grammatically correct and formatted properly but are missing depth, context, accuracy, or relevance. The end result is often content that creates more work than it saves.Because AI outputs can seem accurate and look complete, they’re often accepted without adequate review. AI slop typically emerges when users don't fully understand the limits of the tools they’re using, fail to apply appropriate oversight, or lack subject matter expertise. Unfortunately, this can mean passing along work that is flawed, vague, or simply wrong.The hidden costs of AI slopThe effects of AI slop can compound quickly. At first glance, AI slop may seem like a minor inconvenience. But recent data shows that consequences are significant and widespread.Low-quality work and reputational damageResearchers from Stanford Social Media Lab and BetterUp Labs explored in September 2025 the implications of AI slop and coined the term “workslop” to describe the issue. Based on a survey of 1,000 full-time U.S. office workers, the research found that nearly 40% of respondents reported receiving some form of workslop — incomplete, low-quality content — in the previous month. Respondents estimated that more than 15% of the content they receive at work qualifies as workslop.Put into perspective, this means that nearly one in six messages, deliverables, or reports may be unfinished, unclear, or require additional edits and cleanup before they can be used.The emotional and reputational impacts can be significant. The research found that over half (53%) of the respondents say they feel annoyed, 38% feel confused, and 22% even feel offended when they encounter workslop. About half of the respondents said they view colleagues who send workslop as less capable, less reliable, and less creative. Additionally, 42% perceive those coworkers as less trustworthy, while 37% see them as less intelligent.Burnout and lack of clarityEven when productivity appears to be improving on paper, other implications of AI may be overlooked. Data from The Upwork Research Institute report From Tools to Teammates: Navigating the New Human-AI Relationship found that 77% of executives surveyed reported seeing gains from AI adoption, and employees reported being 40% more productive when using AI tools.However, the same report found that among workers who reported high productivity levels with AI, 88% also reported feeling burned out. This combination — higher output and lower well-being — highlights the productivity paradox: Faster doesn’t always mean better.Another report from The Upwork Research Institute, From Burnout to Balance: AI-Enhanced Work Models, found that half of full-time employees surveyed who use AI indicated they have no idea how to actually meet the productivity goals set by their employers. Nearly two-thirds (65%) also said they’re actively struggling with productivity expectations.6 steps to prevent AI slopGiven the hidden costs of AI slop, organizations need to be proactive and intentional about how they introduce AI tools and platforms, set expectations, and manage outputs.Avoiding AI slop isn’t about limiting the use of AI. Rather, it’s about building the right systems and processes around how team members leverage AI. Here are six steps teams can take to ensure AI outputs add value rather than clutter.1. Treat AI as a tool, not a replacementThink of AI as a capable but inexperienced team member. An AI tool can quickly create drafts and suggest ideas but still requires guidance and oversight. Review AI outputs with the same scrutiny you would apply to any junior team member’s contributions.For example, if you're using AI to draft marketing copy, consider the content a starting point — not a final draft. A marketer on your team with domain knowledge should still revise tone, validate facts, and ensure the message aligns with brand strategy. The AI saves time on structure and wording, but the worker can ensure the content is up to standard.2. Implement a standardized review processBecause all AI outputs require feedback from your team before approval or publication, implement a standardized process to review and refine content. Designate AI content checkpoints within your workflows and project timelines, ensuring worker review isn't skipped under pressure. Encourage workers to ask whether the output is actually solving a problem or simply adding volume and more work for the team.Consider implementing a rubric or checklist to evaluate AI-generated outputs. Answering the right questions as part of a review checklist can significantly improve output quality.Address questions such as:Does this deliver accurate information?Is the output on brand?Does the content serve its intended audience?Is the data or evidence cited properly?Are the insights original or merely surface-level summaries?Would I feel confident putting my name or the company’s name on this output?Does the output raise follow-up questions or require additional clarification?3. Shift your metricsInstead of measuring productivity by the number of deliverables produced by AI, focus on the value outputs created. For example, measure whether engagement metrics improve or customers respond more positively to automated processes powered by AI. And track time saved — or additional time added — after accounting for revisions, rework, and team clarification.A team producing 50 AI-generated reports per month may appear productive. But if half the reports require extensive revisions or are flagged for inaccurate content, this is a sign that volume is eclipsing value. Instead, organizations should track net productivity metrics — including how much usable work is produced after factoring in review, refinement, and revisions. This reframing can drive better strategic decisions about how and when to use AI.4. Invest in AI literacyPrompting, editing AI outputs, and identifying when content doesn’t align with context or objectives are all essential in AI-driven workplaces. Provide employees with training, shared resources, and opportunities to experiment with AI tools in a low-stakes environment. This builds confidence and encourages responsible use.Run internal workshops focused on how to construct better prompts. For technical teams, explore pair-programming sessions in which software developers co-create with AI tools and then reflect on what worked and what didn’t. For content teams, allow time to compare AI- and human-written drafts to identify areas for improvement. Embedding this kind of hands-on learning accelerates adoption while reducing misuse.In addition to investing in training and AI literacy, set expectations around when and where AI tools should be used — as well as which tools are approved for use at your organization. Because many workers reported a lack of clarity with productivity expectations, outlining which tasks should be handled by AI and which tasks should be overseen by your team can be helpful.5. Build a culture of experimentation and feedbackOpenly encourage and create a safe space for team members to share feedback about what’s working and what’s not with AI tools. When something isn’t working, ask what the original prompt was and how it may be improved. Share ideas for better prompts, iterate together, and make feedback part of how teams grow.Start team meetings with short reviews of recent AI-assisted projects. Discuss what went well and what could have been stronger. Ask individuals to share prompt versions that led to clearer or more accurate outputs. This approach can help everyone learn to collaborate more effectively with AI. Creating transparent feedback loops turns individual learning into team capabilities.As part of your culture of feedback, also consider distributing employee engagement surveys or meeting with team members one-on-one to gather feedback about their experience using AI tools, as well as their overall workload. Collecting and addressing feedback can help improve the efficiency of AI tools, show employees their input is valued, and minimize burnout.6. Bring in outside expertise when neededIn some cases, organizations — especially small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with limited resources — may not have the internal bandwidth needed to effectively manage AI tools, review outputs, and maintain quality. To address this, many companies turn to skilled freelancers for the flexibility, structure, and oversight they add.Freelancers bring to a company specialized skills, subject-matter expertise, and fresh perspectives. And because they often work across multiple clients and across industries, they bring tested strategies for deploying AI responsibly and effectively. Once organizations have standardized review processes and other AI guardrails in place, freelancers can be a powerful extension to internal teams.Freelancers can help bridge gaps in quality control by reviewing, validating, and refining outputs. Data published in the September 2025 Upwork Monthly Hiring Report found that demand for localization and translation services jumped 29%, quality assurance testing increased 9%, and project management spiked by 102% in September.Companies can hire translation experts, for example, to catch nuances that AI-powered tools often miss, while freelance QA testers can validate AI outputs before they go live. Demand for freelance project managers has particularly risen among SMBs as annual planning gets underway and companies look to effectively integrate AI into core business processes.Engage workers to produce high-quality outputsRapid AI adoption in the workplace presents both benefits and drawbacks for organizations and workers. While the technology can accelerate workflows and spark creativity, it can also produce AI slop — outputs that are misleading, incomplete, or counterproductive if not reviewed carefully.Organizations that treat AI as a collaborative tool, invest in employee skills, and prioritize quality over volume are more likely to see sustainable results from AI integration. And by tapping into specialized expertise when needed, teams can ensure AI investments truly deliver value.This story was produced by Upwork and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Extreme Cold continues into the weekend We are seeing the worst of the cold on this Friday morning at the time of posting this story with wind chills reaching -37 degrees below zero at the coldest in the Quad Cities. Further up north in areas like Galena and Mt. Carroll even saw wind chills exceed 40 below and we are still [...]
	Elevator tech startup shares plans for the KONE Tower Hyprlift, Inc. will use the tower to get its self-propelled elevator system certified.
	"Word on the Street": Luke Bryan coming to Vibrant Arena this summer Luke Bryan’s “Word On The Street Tour” kicks off on May 29 in New Hampshire and stops at the Vibrant Arena in Moline on July 10. Joining him on stage are Shane Profitt, Lauren Watkins, Raelyn & DJ Rock. Tickets go on sale on Friday, January 30 at 10 a.m. here. Bryan’s fan club members can [...]
	New review of studies finds children with ADHD are more likely to struggle with motor skills New review of studies finds children with ADHD are more likely to struggle with motor skillsADHD is typically associated with symptoms like impulsivity, hyperactivity, and trouble with focus. But a recent review of studies strengthens our understanding that kids with ADHD may also struggle with motor skills. These are the skills that let people move, control, and coordinate movements in the body.Understood shares what you need to know and how you can help your child.What the study foundThis review of studies was published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders in September. It reviewed 25 studies that included kids with ADHD and kids without.Combined, the 25 studies included over 2,000 children between the ages of 5 and 14 years. Almost half of the children had ADHD, and the rest did not. It’s the first time a review compared motor skills in kids with ADHD and neurotypical children. This comparison allows us to better understand the unmet needs of kids with ADHD.When researchers reviewed all the studies, they found that children with ADHD were more likely to have lower motor competence than their neurotypical peers. Motor competence is the ability to perform different motor skills effectively and efficiently.The researchers found that kids with ADHD had a particularly hard time with certain motor skills. These included:Fine motor control: Fine motor skills involve using the hands and fingers to make small movements.Manual dexterity: Manual dexterity is a type of fine motor skill used for gripping and moving objects with your hands.Manual coordination: Similarly, manual coordination is the ability to use the hands and fingers effectively, along with hand-eye coordination.Body coordination: Body coordination includes gross motor skills like running and jumping. It also includes balance, hand-eye coordination, and being able to use both sides of the body together.Locomotor skills: These skills allow you to move your body from place to place, such as running, jumping, or leaping.Throwing and catching: The ability to throw and catch involves hand-eye coordination and other motor skills.The researchers suggest that difficulties with these skills may be due in part to issues with motor planning. Motor planning is a skill that requires coordinating all the steps it takes to complete a physical task. Motor planning and coordination require executive function to complete. Executive function is the brain’s ability to plan, focus, remember instructions, and manage tasks to reach goals. These skills are frequently affected by ADHD.Other research has come to similar conclusions. Researchers estimate that up to 50% of children with ADHD have problems with motor skills.The study’s limitationsThis review adds new information to our understanding of motor skill issues in kids with ADHD. But it’s important to keep in mind that it does have limitations.First, the 25 studies in this review were not representative of the full ADHD community. For example, the studies reviewed included more boys than girls. ADHD shows up differently in girls than in boys. The same may be true of motor skill issues, especially because boys and girls have different bodies and genetics. Boys are also more likely to be encouraged to play sports compared to girls.Not all of the studies in this review measured motor competence in the same way. The researchers accounted for this by grouping studies that used the same tests together. But it does make it more difficult to compare results and draw conclusions.Many studies in this review also didn’t consider other factors that might explain why kids with ADHD struggle with their motor skills. For example, the studies didn’t take into account whether kids had dysgraphia, which makes handwriting difficult. Without taking these variables into account, the researchers may end up with false conclusions.Why these results are importantMotor difficulties can have a significant impact on kids with ADHD. The researchers in this review highlighted that children with ADHD are less likely to be physically active compared to their neurotypical peers. This is likely due in part to problems with motor skills.Physical activity matters for overall health. But physical activity also helps improve other ADHD symptoms. It makes it easier to pay attention, resist distractions, and adapt your thinking. Motor skill development is also tied to cognitive development. Motor competence, coordination, and planning all support executive functioning and attention span.Motor competence also matters for academic performance. Being able to hold a pencil and write legibly can affect how well a child does at school.Kids who struggle with skills like throwing, catching, jumping, and running may have a hard time keeping up in sports or other physical activities. They may end up being left out or feeling as if they are. This can lead to less physical activity and missed opportunities for social connection.How to help kids with ADHD develop their motor skillsIf your child struggles with their motor skills, there are things you can do to help.1. Have your child’s motor skills tested.Consider getting your child’s motor skills assessed. Motor skills can help improve your child’s development and well-being. It’s especially helpful to work on these skills early. We know that problems with motor skills can continue into adulthood.2. Get your child moving.Encourage your child to exercise. You can try activities like swimming or bike riding, which will help with balance and coordination. These types of exercises target gross motor skills, which help build the foundation for developing fine motor skills as well.3. Consider medication.Talk to your child’s doctor about medication for ADHD. Research suggests that kids with ADHD who take stimulants may experience improvements in their motor skills, as well as their other symptoms.4. Talk to an occupational or physical therapist.An occupational therapist can help your child work on their motor skills to complete tasks like:HandwritingTying shoesCutting with scissorsFastening clothingA physical therapist can also help your child with larger movements, like balance and jumping.With the right supports, it is possible to improve your child’s motor skills.SummaryKids with ADHD may be about 12 times more likely than other kids to have trouble with motor skills. Researchers found that kids with ADHD often have challenges with fine motor control, dexterity, coordination, and balance. This may be caused by differences in motor planning and executive function. The findings show how important it is to check the motor skills development of kids with ADHD. Early interventions, like physical activity, occupational therapy, and medication, may help improve motor skills and development.This story was produced by Understood and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Vietnam leader To Lam consolidates power as country targets 10% growth Lam, 68, pledged to accelerate economic growth and was reappointed unanimously by the 180-member Central Committee at the conclusion of the National Party Congress.
	15 reasons why women outlive men, and 6 ways men can narrow the longevity gap 15 reasons why women outlive men, and 6 ways men can narrow the longevity gapIt might sound like an old wives' tale, but women do indeed live longer than men. It's actually the case for the majority of mammals in the animal kingdom. This is nothing new: The female species has enjoyed a longevity edge since researchers started reporting these statistics.What's interesting about this fact is that historically, women have had to deal with more illness and difficult life conditions, like poverty and having less control in their lives and more limited access to resources. And research suggests that while their years on the planet may be longer, they are filled with more age-related illnesses and overall "dings" to their well-being—giving men an advantage for overall healthspan.Why this paradox? The answers aren't totally clear. Life Extension reviews what is known, though, and how blood testing and lifestyle changes can help men close the gap and get the most from their golden years.At a glanceGlobally, women live about 5.4 years longer than men on average.The longevity gap likely stems from a combination of biological factors and behavioral differences between the sexes.Even though they live longer, women have a shorter healthspan than men, meaning they have a lower quality of life due to age-related illnesses.Do women live longer than men?Yes, women do tend to outlive men. On average, global research shows that women live about 5.4 years longer than men. In the United States, women live to an average age of 80 while men live to an average age of 75, according to the Centers for Disease Control.Even more fascinating: This effect, which researchers call the "female survival advantage," is seen across different countries. Even in cultures with vastly different histories and societies, women generally live longer.What are some biological reasons women live longer than men?Researchers have many hypotheses about women's longer lifespan, and the longevity gap is likely due to a combination of many factors working together. There's a ton of variation out there, so these are only the statistical trends across populations.1. Sex chromosomes: Women have a lower risk of genetic mutations.One of the leading hypotheses concerns sex chromosomes. Females (of all mammal species) carry two X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y chromosome. In females, only one X chromosome is expressed in each cell; the other is inactivated. So about half of her cells express her father's X chromosome and half express her mother's.Why does this matter? Because males have only one X chromosome, if that chromosome carries a harmful mutation, it gets expressed in every cell. For females, though, whether the mutation gets expressed depends upon whether it is recessive or dominant, and whether she inherited the same mutation from both parents. This explains why there are plenty of X-linked disorders that are more prevalent in men, such as hemophilia and color blindness.One other point worth noting: Women, on average, have longer telomeres from birth. (Telomeres are the pieces of DNA at the end of a chromosome.) Some X chromosome-linked genes are also associated with longer, which—as long as they're not too long—may be linked to a lengthier lifespan.2. Sexual selection: What makes a male “attractive” may shorten his life.Another hypothesis focuses on the intense competition males face for mates. The idea is that evolution may favor traits in males that boost their chances of reproduction, even if those same traits shorten their lifespan. For example, in many species, males show higher levels of aggression and larger body size, which can help them compete for mates but also increase their chances of injury, exhaustion or early death.3. Sex hormones: Estrogen protects the heart.Hormones and biology go hand in hand, and researchers point to certain hormones playing a part in longevity. Women generally have higher levels of estrogen and lower levels of testosterone.This matters because estrogen has cardiometabolic health benefits. Before menopause, women are naturally more protected against visceral fat accumulation (the dangerous fat that builds up around internal organs) thanks to estrogen. Even women with obesity tend to carry less of that dangerous visceral fat than men who are comparably overweight. Estrogen's perks extend to the heart, too. Cardiovascular disease tends to appear later in women than in men.But this protection doesn't last forever: Once women hit menopause and estrogen levels plummet, their risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other metabolic conditions rises significantly.4. Immune differences: Women have stronger natural defenses.While it might seem like the men in your life never get sick, the data shows that women tend to have stronger immune defenses. Men are more susceptible to infections from birth through adulthood, research shows. And it turns out that the X chromosome is rife with immune-related genes affecting both the innate (general) and adaptive (specialized) immune responses.Women generally have stronger innate and adaptive immune responses, which makes them less susceptible to infection than men. The flip side is that women are more likely to develop autoimmune conditions, since their immune systems are more active. Still, more people die from infections than from autoimmune conditions.Men may also develop immunosenescence (aging of their immune cells) earlier than women. Research shows that as they age, men experience more spikes associated with inflammation.5. Mitochondrial differences: The battle of the sexes at the cellular level.As you might recall from high school biology, mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell. Women generally have more mitochondrial DNA and better cellular respiratory function, meaning their cells are more efficient at converting oxygen and nutrients into usable energy.Men also tend to have a lower mitochondrial DNA copy number, which is linked to faster aging, reduced cognitive and physical abilities, and higher mortality rates.One hypothesis for this gap is called the "mother's curse," which suggests that mitochondria are inherited from mothers and thus mutations that harm males but not females can potentially accumulate over generations. This hypothesis is not universally accepted, though, since research is conflicting.6. Epigenetic age: Biologically, women are younger than men with the same birthday.Epigenetic age is basically a measure of your biological age based on chemical modifications to your DNA (called methylation patterns) rather than the years you've been alive. Think of it as a snapshot of how much wear and tear your body has endured.At all ages, men tend to have an older epigenetic age than women. While this is still an emerging area of research, there appear to be some sex-related differences in DNA methylation patterns that lead men to be "epigenetically older" than their same-age female counterparts.What are lifestyle and behavioral factors that shorten men's lifespan?Biology isn't the whole story. Compared with women, men also tend to engage in riskier behaviors and lifestyle choices that can shorten their lifespan. Here are the vices worth noting:1. Risky behaviorStatistics show that men are more likely to drive drunk, speed, smoke, or engage in otherwise dangerous behavior (like fighting or trying extreme sports). This risky behavior can raise the risk of death from accidents and violence. Why are men less risk-averse? Social expectations surely play some role, but it's also likely due to how hormones affect parts of the brain associated with decision-making.2. SmokingTobacco use is more common in men than in women. But it's worth noting that this gap is closing, and we may see the effects on female lifespan statistics if this trend continues.3. Drinking alcoholHistorically, men tended to imbibe more alcohol than women. This gap, too, is closing as women have been drinking more. But similar to smoking, it's too soon to see the effects of this change.4. Substance abuseMen have higher usage rates of illicit drugs, by which we mean both illegal drugs and misuse of prescription medication. They're also more likely to overdose and require drug-related visits to the emergency room.5. Occupational exposureMen may work in more dangerous jobs (construction, military, mining, manufacturing, etc.), and this increases their risk of work-related accidents. In the same way, men may be more exposed to potentially dangerous toxins that damage health in the long term (like asbestos or industrial chemicals).6. Healthcare avoidanceMen may put off seeing their doctor or may be less likely to seek out preventative screening.7. Refusal to ask for helpIn addition to avoiding healthcare, men may also be less likely to seek out help in general, preferring to "handle it themselves." This applies whether they're lost driving and won't ask for directions or need emotional support.8. Social isolationWhile men and women tend to report similar levels of loneliness and report having social networks of about the same size, men tend to reach out to their social networks less frequently than women do. Single men, specifically, seem to be more isolated than single women. Social isolation is well-documented to put a dent in both the quality and quantity of our years.9. Mental health concerns and suicideWhile women tend to have higher rates of many mental health disorders (such as depression and anxiety), men are a lot more likely to commit suicide. The lack of social support and hesitance to seek help may contribute to this.How men can narrow the longevity gapMen can help close the lifespan gap by tackling the lifestyle and behavioral factors that contribute to earlier death. Here's what that looks like in practice. Life Extension 6 Longevity Tips for MenDon't smoke. If you smoke currently, quit.Limit alcohol consumption. This means moderate drinking or none at all. The CDC defines "moderate" drinking as no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. If you drink more than this, cut back or quit altogether.Less risky business. Avoid risky behaviors like drunk driving, speeding or unnecessary physical confrontations.Take safety precautions seriously, especially if you work in a hazardous job. Wear protective gear, handle potentially dangerous materials properly, and follow safety protocols without cutting corners.See your doctor annually for bloodwork and a general checkup—or more frequently if you have existing health conditions or a family history of serious illness. (If your parent had a heart attack in their 40s, for example, go see a cardiologist to assess your own risk.)Reach out. Don't fall victim to toxic ideas of masculinity. When you're struggling—physically, mentally, or emotionally—talk to friends, family members, or a professional.At what age do men start falling behind in life expectancy?Men don't really start "falling behind" at any specific age. In fact, certain factors (such as genetics and hormones) may be present starting at birth. However, men are more likely to die at many stages of life. Men aged 15-40 are about three times more likely to die than women of the same age bracket. But mortality of men ages 60+ is the main factor in their shorter life expectancy, likely due to earlier onset of age-related diseases like cardiovascular disease.Are women healthier than men?It might seem as if the answer to this question is an obvious "yes" since women live longer, but there's a catch: those extra years are not always good ones. Women seem to deal with more age-related diseases and non-communicable illnesses than men. While there is a female advantage to lifespan, there is a male advantage to healthspan.What nutrients support men’s longevity?Many nutrients support longevity, and both men and women can add them to their diets. These nutrients include:ResveratrolFisetinErgothioneineQuercetinOmega-3 fatty acidsAstaxanthinVitamin DLithiumTaurineSpermidineMyricetinGreen teaLuteolinCoQ10Key TakeawaysThe female survival advantage is real and rooted in both biology (like the protective effects of estrogen) and behavior (men engage in riskier activities).Men can narrow the longevity gap by quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, and taking safety precautions and their health screenings seriously.Men don't fall behind at a specific age. Biological factors such as telomere length are present from birth.This story was produced by Life Extension and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Can your water heater explode? Can your water heater explode?Not to unduly alarm homeowners out there, but it’s of vital importance for you to know that your water … could explode. Sorry to alarm you, but it’s true. Your water heater is a dependable workhorse home system that provides your plumbing fixtures with a steady supply of hot water in all seasons. But when things go wrong with your water heater, they could really go wrong — occasionally with explosive results.Not to blow things out of proportion, as the phenomenon is relatively uncommon — especially with modern units, which have improved failsafe mechanisms — and the chances are minuscule that you’d get rocket-like liftoff through your roof like in an episode of TV’s “MythBusters” back in 2007 — but a water heater explosion poses great danger, so knowing how to ensure yours doesn’t become a ticking time bomb is a must, HomeServe reports.Can a Water Heater Explode?The risk of a water heater explosion rises if you don't maintain your unit correctly or ignore common warning signs. Generally, water heater explosions occur when the temperature inside your water heater exceeds the safe limit, increasing the pressure inside the tank and potentially causing it to burst.How Do Water Heater Explosions Happen?During a water heater explosion, your unit likely will release significant quantities of scalding water and steam into your home. An explosion can cause serious injuries, such as burns, to anyone near the unit.Injuries aren't the only potential hazard of a burst water heater. Water released from the tank can cause severe damage to floors, walls and other elements of your home. The force of the explosion may also damage your furnishings and personal belongings.Gas water heater explosions can be particularly dangerous because they could damage the gas line supplying the unit, leading to a gas leak. Gas leaks increase the risk of house fires and can cause physical symptoms such as lightheadedness and nausea.What Causes Water Heater Explosions?The most common cause of a water heater blowing up is rust inside the unit. Rust prevents water and heat from circulating through your system properly, leading to pressure buildup. Installing your water heater incorrectly can also cause pressure problems and increase the risk of an explosion — so hiring a professional plumber to install a new water heater is essential.Rust inside your water heater is challenging for a layperson to diagnose, but some common warning signs could indicate a buildup of rust and sediment inside your system. You can reduce the risk of a water heater explosion by scheduling a checkup with a qualified professional whenever you notice one or more of the following issues:Leaking or constantly open pressure release valveHissing, banging or clanking noises coming from the water heaterDiscolored waterUnpleasant, rotten egg smells coming from your water heater or fixturesHow to Prevent Water Heater ExplosionsHiring a pro to inspect and clean your water heater at least once a year can help you spot and fix issues before they become more serious. Running your water heater at the correct temperature can also prevent dangerous pressure from accumulating; the EPA generally recommends 120 degrees Fahrenheit, but also be aware of manufacturer instructions for your specific unit. Consult your user manual or ask your plumber to determine the optimal temperature for your water heater's make and model. Ensure anyone you hire to install or service your water heater has the correct license to avoid potentially hazardous errors.If the Worst Happens: What to Do If Your Water Heater ExplodesIf your water heater explodes, seek immediate medical attention if anyone has suffered burns or scalding. Turning off the water supply can help you avoid costly water damage to your home. If the stopcock is safely accessible, turn the valve clockwise to stop more water from flowing into your unit.Next, turn off the electrical supply to your water heater from the circuit breaker panel. The water released by a burst water heater can cause an electrical fire if it contacts the electrical elements of your unit. If you have a gas-powered water heater, prevent gas from escaping into your home by turning off the emergency shutoff valve.Finally, make an emergency call to a plumber to repair any damage and replace the faulty unit. Avoid approaching the water heater or attempting to clean up standing water until your contractor tells you it's safe to do so.You can clean smaller leaks by soaking up standing water with old rags or towels and placing fans or dehumidifiers in the affected room to facilitate drying. However, you may need to hire a specialized restoration company to repair extensive water damage.This story was produced by HomeServe and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Iowa Ag Secretary hopeful says state must rethink ethanol if pollution of waterways is to be controlled If Iowa wants to have clean waterways, reduce the nitrates its drinking water and have economic outcomes that benefit the people, the current agricultural model of growing corn and soybeans is going to need to change.
	How to instantly elevate your game day spread (BPT) - Excited to gather with fellow football fans for the big game? You can score big with your guests — without too much fuss — by choosing premium products that turn a ho-hum cheese plate into a delectable charcuterie board, transforming so-so game day appetizers into a chef's kiss-worthy experience.What's the secret? Président® Cheese. From flavorful Pub Cheese to creamy Brie and more, Président Cheese will be the MVP of game day, bringing a taste of dairy mastery to your snacks and creating surprisingly simple but elevated culinary masterpieces.Get ready for kickoff with an elevated snack boardAn easy way to get the party started is offering a fun, shareable game day board that brings the energy of the stadium to your table. Classic bites get an irresistible upgrade with Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar, generously spread on top or served in inviting bowls for dipping. This mix of savory favorites, fresh veggies and crispy sides creates an effortless spread that will keep everyone reaching for one more taste.Président® Pub Cheese® Stadium Snack Board Prep time: 30 minutes; Servings: 12Ingredients2 packs Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp CheddarChicken wingsHasselback sausagesLarge soft pretzelsSoft pretzel bitesCrispy waffle friesChili-spiced nutsCelery sticksCarrot sticksPita chipsCrostinisInstructions1. Warm the Pub Cheese: Place Président® Pub Cheese® in small cast-iron or regular pan, reserving a second pack to serve raw. Heat over medium on stovetop about 2 minutes, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth, even melt.2. Prepare board: Arrange Président® Pub Cheese®, chicken wings, Hasselback sausages, pretzel bites, large soft pretzels, waffle fries, chili-spiced nuts, pita chips and crostinis on large serving board or platter.3. Add fresh elements: Tuck celery and carrot sticks around the board to add color and a crisp, refreshing bite.4. Set up the cheese: Serve melted Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar in small bowls — or keep in its pan — and place around the board for easy dipping and spreading.5. Serve and enjoy: Dip, spread and snack freely, mixing and matching favorite bites with Président® Pub Cheese® Sharp Cheddar.Boost your game plan with BrieRich and creamy Brie was made for entertaining. Whether served as is or warmed up, it's perfect for spreading on crusty bread or crispy crackers. Président Brie Cheese is incredibly versatile for any occasion, from grilled to charcuterie boards. You're sure to score a touchdown with this delicious combo of nuts and honey with Brie. Simply grill Brie, then top with seasonal fruit, pistachios and honey for something so delicious in just 10 minutes.Grilled Président Brie with Pistachios & Honey Prep time: 5 minutes; Cook time: 10 minutes; Servings: 6Ingredients1 package (8 ounces) Président® Brie1 apple, sliced1/4 cup pistachios, unshelled2 tablespoons honey, for drizzlingSalt, to tasteCrostinis, for servingInstructions1. Preheat grill: Set grill to 350°F.2. Prepare the Brie: Score the top of the Brie in a crosshatch pattern.3. Place in skillet: Add Brie to lightly greased 8–10 inch cast iron skillet and place directly onto a preheated grill. Close lid and let warm about 5–7 minutes, until soft and melty.4. Add seasonal fruits and nuts: Place apple slices and pistachios around Brie in the skillet. Close the lid again and warm another 2–3 minutes to warm the fruit and meld the flavors.5. Finish with extra honey: Drizzle the entire skillet generously with honey.6. Serve and enjoy: Serve warm with crostini for dipping. Enjoy!Dip it, spread it and dive in on game dayYour game watch party all-star? Chips and dip. But there's no need to stick to the same-old, same-old. Instead, let Feta cheese add more zip to your dip. This easy dip combines sweet, juicy NatureSweet Cherubs® tomatoes with creamy, oven-baked Président feta for a warm, savory appetizer. Perfect for game day, this simple dip pairs beautifully with pita chips for a crowd-pleasing recipe everyone will love.Baked Feta and Tomato Dip Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 15 minutes; Servings: 4IngredientsOlive oil, drizzle1 teaspoon garlic, minced1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced1 1/2 cup NatureSweet Cherubs® tomatoes1 package (8 ounces) Président® Feta Chunk1 teaspoon fine herbsSalt and pepper to taste2 teaspoon fresh parsley, choppedPita chipsInstructions1. Mix olive oil, garlic, red onion, Cherubs®, Président® Feta Chunk, pepper, fine herbs and salt in a baking dish.2. Bake at 360°F for 15 minutes.3. Mix and garnish with parsley. Serve with pita chips.Score extra points with a trendy butter boardIf you haven't tried a butter board yet, now's your chance! Just one look, and friends and family will tackle this dessert board with gusto. This recipe takes a decadent twist on the savory approach with three sweet variations of high-quality Président® Salted Butter. Creamy dessert butter is perfect for spreading, and is even more tasty enhanced with flavors like sweet honey, sultry caramel and spiced cinnamon.Président® Butter Board Prep time: 25 minutes; Servings: 10IngredientsHoney Butter1 cup Président® Salted Butter, softened to room temperature1/4 cup powdered sugar3 tablespoons raw and unfiltered honeyCaramel Butter1 cup Président® Salted Butter, softened to room temperature1/3 cup caramel sauce2 tablespoons powdered sugarCinnamon Butter1 cup Président® Salted Butter, softened to room temperature1/2 cup powdered sugar2 teaspoons ground cinnamonInstructions1. In three separate small bowls, mix ingredients for each butter until smooth and lump free, about 20 seconds each.2. Spread butter onto a wooden board (lined with parchment first).3. Fill board with a variety of cookies, fruits and side dipping sauces.Win big with exciting new recipesYou'll be the champion of this year's big game with a little help from Président Cheese. Visit PrésidentCheese.com for more recipe inspiration, and check out their social media on Instagram, Facebook and X. President Cheese is a product of Lactalis USA.
	Two boys with fascinating hobbies: How travel made their wishes possible (BPT) - Although they live in different states and have never met, Michael and Andrew have a lot in common. Both boys love to immerse themselves in their favorite subjects — trains for Michael and penguins for Andrew — and they are both dealing with critical illnesses. And thanks to Make-A-Wish® and corporate partner Chase, both boys were able to see their long-cherished wishes come true.For Michael, that meant traveling from his home near Fresno, California, to Cheyenne, Wyoming, to see Big Boy 4014, the world's largest operating steam locomotive and one of his favorite trains! Animal lover Andrew and his family were able to travel across the world, from their home town of Draper, Utah, to Dunedin, New Zealand, to see the country's unique yellow-eyed hoiho penguins up close and personal.According to Make-A-Wish, which has granted over 390,000 wishes for children with critical illnesses in the U.S. since 1980, approximately 75% of children's wishes involve some form of travel. To help meet this need, Chase has donated more than $4 million in Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, allowing Make-A-Wish to have more resources to grant even more wishes, and helping to ensure that a child's wish is granted at the best time to support their journey to fight their critical illness. Since their partnership began in 2024, Chase has helped grant over 800 wishes."Airfare costs are often the largest expense for granting wishes," said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. "And for every wish we grant, two more children with critical illnesses are still waiting. With Chase's ongoing support, Make-A-Wish can continue to create lasting memories for children and families, bringing them hope and joy during their most challenging times."Life-changing journeysMake-A-Wish strives to bring the power of wishing to every child with a critical illness, because wish experiences can help improve their emotional and physical health.* For eight-year-old Michael, learning about trains and wishing to see one of his favorite locomotives in person brought him hope, uplifted his spirits and gave him strength to continue his fight against cancer. Michael and his family were able to fly from Fresno, California, to Denver, Colorado, where they picked up a rental car to drive to Cheyenne. Michael experienced memorable visits to the High Plains Railroad Preservation Association and Cheyenne Depot Museum, but the trip's highlight was his afternoon at the Union Pacific Steam Shop and private tour of Big Boy No. 4014. Michael's wish uplifted his spirits and brought him hope. Twelve-year-old Andrew, who has a critical genetic disorder, is an avid reader who has always loved animals — especially penguins — and enjoys swimming. Thanks to the partnership with Chase, Andrew and his family were able to travel halfway around the world to New Zealand, where they spent time at the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital to witness hoiho chicks being fed and cared for, as well as seeing these distinctive penguins in the wild. The family also enjoyed a trip to the beach at Otago peninsula and a visit with some alpacas, completing a once-in-a-lifetime trip that Andrew will never forget. Most wish kids go on to overcome their illness and lead healthy lives, often crediting their wish as a turning point in their emotional and physical health. By helping grant these travel wishes, Chase's donation enables children to replace fear with confidence, sadness with joy, and anxiety with hope. Research shows that a wish can have significant physical and emotional benefits, increasing the chances of survival for children facing critical illnesses.How you can helpWould you like to make a difference in the life of a child with a critical illness? Chase cardmembers can support Make-A-Wish by donating at Wish.org/Chase, then redeem Ultimate Rewards for the value of the donation by using Pay Yourself Back® through the Ultimate Rewards portal. You can also learn more about children who have been granted wishes at Wish.org.Source: Make-A-Wish 2022 Wish Impact Study, wish.org/impactstudy
	Orion School Board OKs STEM lab materials purchase; hires new middle school principal The school board on Wednesday voted to spend $188,902 on SmartLab HQ Explorer program materials to equip the STEM lab at the grade school.
	Hubbell-Waterman Foundation grants more than $2 million to 67 Quad-Cities nonprofits Since its founding, the Hubbell-Waterman Foundation has granted more than $43 million to local organizations.
	Exhibition by Sandburg, Galesburg, alumna is first art show of 2026 Sandburg’s first art show of the new year highlights the work of alumna Madelyn Havens through March 24. The opening reception for Havens’ exhibit, “Lingering Forms,” will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 23 in the Sandburg art gallery in building D on the college’s Galesburg campus. The show and reception are free and open to the public. Regular gallery hours are weekdays from [...]
	Muscatine Police Department to host training on Iowa Crime Free Multi Housing Program The program aims to reduce crime, improve resident safety and enhance quality of life in rental communities.
	National parks are key conservation areas for wildlife and natural resources View of Western North Carolina from Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Photo by Jim Renfro/Courtesy of the National Park Service) Sarah Diaz, Coastal Carolina University and Linda Lane, Coastal Carolina University The United States’ national parks have an inherent contradiction. The federal law that created the National Park Service says the agency — and the parks — must “conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife … unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” That means both protecting fragile wild places and making sure people can visit them. Much of the public focus on the parks is about recreation and enjoyment, but the parks are extremely important places for research and conservation efforts. These places contain a wide range of sensitive and striking environments: volcanoes, glaciers, sand dunes, marshlands, ocean ecosystems, forests and deserts. And these areas face a broad variety of conservation challenges, including the effects of climate change, the perils of popularity driving crowds to some places, and the Trump administration’s reductions to park service staff and funding. As scholars of recreation who study the national parks and teach a course on them, we have seen the park service make parks far more than just recreational opportunities. They are living laboratories where researchers — park service personnel and others — study nature across wide-ranging ecosystems and apply what they learn to inform public and private conservation efforts around the country. A wolf howls while standing near Blacktail Pond in Yellowstone National Park on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2019. (Photo by Jim Peaco/Courtesy of the National Park Service) Returning wolves to Yellowstone One of the best known outcomes of conservation research in park service history is still playing out in the nation’s first national park, Yellowstone. Gray wolves once roamed the forests and mountains, but government-sanctioned eradication efforts to protect livestock in the late 1800s and early 1900s hunted them to near extinction in the lower 48 states by the mid-20th century. In 1974, the federal government declared that gray wolves needed the protections of the Endangered Species Act. Research in the park found that the ecosystem required wolves as apex predators to maintain a healthy balance in nature. In the mid-1990s, an effort began to reintroduce gray wolves to Yellowstone National Park. The project brought 41 wolves from Canada to the park. The wolves reproduced and became the basis of a Yellowstone-based population that has numbered as many as 120 and in December 2024 was estimated at 108. The return of wolves has not only drawn visitors hoping to see these beautiful and powerful predators, but their return has also triggered what scholars call a “trophic cascade,” in which the wolves decrease elk numbers, which in turn has allowed willow and aspen trees to survive to maturity and restore dense groves of vegetation across the park. Increased vegetation in turn led to beaver population increases as well as ecosystem changes brought by their water management and engineering skills. Songbirds also came back, now that they could find shade and shelter in trees near water and food sources. A black bear eats cherries in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023. (Photo by Betty Blanton/Courtesy of the National Park Service) Black bear protection in the Great Smoky Mountains Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most biologically diverse park in the country, with over 19,000 species documented and another 80,000 to 100,000 species believed to be present. However, the forests of the Appalachian Mountains were nearly completely clear-cut in the late 1800s and early 20th century, during the early era of the logging industry in the region. Because their habitat was destroyed, and because they were hunted, black bears were nearly eradicated. By 1934, when Great Smoky Mountains National Park was designated, there were only an estimated 100 bears left in the region. Under the park’s protection, the population rebounded to an estimated 1,900 bears in and around the park in 2025. Much like the gray wolves in Yellowstone, bears are essential to the health of this ecosystem by preying on other animals, scavenging carcasses and dispersing seeds. Water preservation in the Everglades The Everglades are a vast subtropical ecosystem located in southern Florida. They provide drinking water and irrigation to millions of people across the state, help control storm flooding and are home to dozens of federally threatened and endangered species such as the Florida panther and American alligator. When Everglades National Park was created in 1947, it was the first time a U.S. national park had been established to protect a natural resource for more than just its scenic value. As agriculture and surrounding urban development continue to pollute this natural resource, park professionals and partner organizations have focused on improving habitat restoration, both for the wildlife and for humans’ water quality. Inspiring future generations To us, perhaps the most important work in the national parks involves young people. Research shows that visiting, exploring and understanding the parks and their ecosystems can foster deep connections with natural spaces and encourage younger generations to take up the mantle of stewardship of the parks and the environment as a whole. With their help, the parks — and the landscapes, resources and beauty they protect — can be preserved for the benefit of nature and humans, in the parks and far beyond their boundaries. An alligator protests her nest in Everglades National Park in 2015. The average American alligator nest size is 38 eggs. An estimated 24 hatchlings will emerge from nests that survive predation or flooding. By end of the first year, only 10 of the alligator hatchlings will still be alive. To help their young survive, mother alligators will often guard the eggs during incubation, release them from the nest upon hatching and escort them to the relative safety of the water where she will continue to guard them. Baby alligators stay with their mother for the first year, until she will need to protect her new young. (Photo courtesy of the National Park Service) This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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