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

Monday, May 11th, 2026
	Project NOW will provide senior services in Henry County The Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging (WIAAA), in coordination with Project Now/Rock Island County Senior Center, has announced a transition in the delivery of Community Focal Point services within Henry County, according to a news release. Effective Oct. 1, Project NOW/Rock Island County Senior Center will assume designation as the Community Focal Point for [...]
	Galva man sentenced to 15 years for possession of child sexual abuse materials A Galva man was sentenced to 15 years in prison Monday in Henry County Court after pleading guilty to three counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.
	Trump taps former FEMA director to lead the disaster agency again Cameron Hamilton led FEMA briefly in 2025. He was removed by the Trump administration after telling Congress that the agency should continue to exist. Now, he's been nominated to lead it once again.
	Cops ‘n Kids Book Drive at KWQC slated for June 5 The drive encourages the community to drive up to 805 Brady Street to donate children’s new (or gently-used) books or make monetary donations. The books are then made available to kids for Davenport police to hand out at community events, schools, and calls.
	Nonprofit sues the federal government over plans to paint Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool blue The Cultural Landscape Foundation, a nonprofit advocacy organization, is asking a federal judge to halt President Trump's plans to resurface the reflecting pool on the National Mall.
	4-year-old Whiteside County bicyclist injured in collision with car on U. S. Route 30 A 4-year-old child was injured after a bicycle-car crash in Whiteside County, according to a news release from Whiteside County Sheriff John F. Booker. Shortly after 11:45 a.m. Saturday, May 9, Whiteside County deputies responded to a report of a crash involving a vehicle and a 4-year-old bicyclist on U. S. Route 30 near Blue [...]
	QCA parrot rescue relocates; volunteer help still needed A Quad-City parrot rescue is growing, and they need volunteers to help. Owners of the Land of Illinois Parrot Rescue bought a traveling ICU unit, something they've been focused on getting since the beginning of the year. They also moved to a new space to help more exotic birds around the region. These are just [...]
	Mother mourns toddler killed on Mother’s Day A 3-year-old child was fatally shot during a hostage rescue attempt at a Bureau County mobile home park on Mother’s Day. The family shares memories.
	Getting in gear: What you need to know for Bike to Work Week Riding your bike to work this week? Here's a couple ways to stay safe.
	Real estate agent arrested in Davenport narcotics investigation He was the listing agent for some of Andrew Wold’s properties after the 2023 Davenport building collapse.
	The Waiting Child: Kam’Ron loves robotics; waits for a Big Brothers Big Sisters ‘Big’ More than 200 kids in the area are on the waiting list for a ‘Big.’ Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley needs volunteers to spend time with them. In this week’s The Waiting Child, Our Quad Cities News' Eric Olsen introduces us to Kam’Ron, a lover of robotics and coding. Kam’Ron shares what [...]
	Traffic Alert: One-way traffic only on East Ridge Drive due to reconstruction Crews will reconstruct the road from Woodfield Drive to 3340 East Ridge Drive, according to a Facebook post.
	Rock Island Arsenal launches self-guided historical tour Explore the history of the Rock Island Arsenal with a new self-guided tour featuring 13 stops. You can register through Visit Quad Cities to win prizes.
	A slow start to May when it comes to rain Things have been a little bit slow in terms of rainfall here in the Quad Cities for the month of May, but we are looking to see some relief. Throughout the next 7 days we are forecasted to receive anywhere from an inch to an inch and a half of rain in the Quad Cities. [...]
	Work progresses on Bettendorf’s pedestrian bridge Work is rapidly progressing on Bettendorf’s $14.5M pedestrian bridge near the TBK Bank Sports Complex.
	Explore Mental Health Month with the Rock Island Public Library May is Mental Health Month, and there are plenty of great resources available from the Rock Island Public Library! Karrah Kuykendall joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about what's happening at the library. For more information, click here.
	Recapping major bills from Iowa's legislative session The Iowa legislative session has concluded. We recap major bills that passed both chambers and those that did not make it through.
	Suspect shot by police in Peoria during domestic disturbance call Illinois State Police said a suspect was shot while Peoria police responded to reports of a domestic disturbance.
	Why cruise ship passengers with possible hantavirus exposure went to Nebraska The University of Nebraska is home to the only federally funded quarantine unit in the U.S. and a separate biocontainment unit that can treat people exposed to infectious diseases.
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges launches HVAC training program As demand for HVAC workers continues to grow, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges is launching a new program aimed at training future technicians for the industry.
	Man arrested after shots fired at St. Ambrose parking lot on Friday A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with shots being fired at one of St. Ambrose University's parking lots on Friday, May 8.
	Rock Island National Cemetery seeking volunteers to place flags for Memorial Day Arsenal officials said the event will happen on Thursday, May 21 at 4 p.m., rain or shine.
	Illinois politics latest: Expulsions for sexual assault, Evidence-Based Funding, budget deadline Illinois lawmakers have until May 31 to finalize the state's budget. Plus, we discuss a bill that would expel students who commit sexual violence at school.
	Celebrate the U.S. Armed Forces at Armed Forces Day at the Rock Island Arsenal Celebrate the U.S. Armed Forces at the Rock Island Arsenal! Col. Joe Parker and Victoria Kline joined Our Quad Cities News with details on Armed Forces Day. For more information, click here.
	New Rock Island Arsenal Trail launches The virtual trail is self-guided and takes visitors across 13 stops exploring the Arsenal's history.
	Iowa governor's race, immigration and the economy: News 8 This Week - May 10, 2026 News 8's Jon Diaz speaks with Adam Steen, a Republican running for governor. Plus, a U of Minnesota researcher on the impacts of immigration and the economy.
	Flocking Awesome: “The Sheep Detectives,” “Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard & Soft: The Tour Live in 3D,” and “Mortal Kombat II” The Sheep Detectives is kind of like Babe meets Paddington meets The Wild Robot meets Agatha Christie … which means, unexpectedly yet delightfully, it's also kind of perfect.
	United Way QC and River Bend Food Bank seek Illinois support for food benefits Local communities are bracing for the effect new federal work requirements will have on food security for hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans.
	QC students earn honors in WIU Undergraduate Research Day competition The Western Illinois University Centennial Honors College has announced Quad-City area winners of the 23rd annual Thomas E. Helm Undergraduate Research Day, which was held April 15, a news release says. A total of 44 scholarly presentations were delivered by 131 students, spanning 15 majors. Podium competition First Place: Ryan Vance (senior, electrical engineering student [...]
	New poll finds a majority of Americans unsure if attempts on Trump's life were real When given the options of "true," "false" or "not sure," and asked whether each of the incidents "was staged," a majority of respondents said they thought each event was either staged or were unsure.
	Abortion pill by mail allowed for at least 3 more days, the Supreme Court says Full access to the abortion pill mifepristone, including through telemedicine and the mail, will continue for at least three more days, the high court said on Monday.
	Iowa auditor Rob Sand discusses Truer Better Agenda: News 8 This Week, April 19, 2026 Iowa gubernatorial candidate and state auditor Rob Sand discusses his Truer Better Agenda with News 8’s Jonas Evans.
	Who is running for Scott, Muscatine, Clinton county offices? Republicans will vote in competitive primaries for Scott County Supervisors, and Clinton and Muscatine county recorder.
	PBS KIDS' Summer of Adventure tour comes to QCA libraries, events QCA families can enjoy stories, crafts and PBS KIDS programming during its “Summer of Adventure” tour at library storytimes and community events throughout the area. Communities that are on the tour for 2026 include Blue Grass, Rock Island, Moline, Colona, Sterling, Coal Valley, Davenport, Silvis, Cordova, Morrison, Geneseo, Galesburg, Bettendorf, Sherrard, LeClaire, Port Byron and [...]
	Man arrested after shots fired at St. Ambrose parking lot on Friday A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with shots being fired at one of St. Ambrose University's parking lots on Friday, May 8.
	Fire hydrant struck in Davenport incident Several vehicles were damaged in an incident at E. River Drive and Pershing Street in Davenport today. Officials told an Our Quad Cities News crew that a vehicle lost control during an altercation inside the vehicle, causing it to strike three other vehicles and a fire hydrant. The hydrant struck one of the vehicles and [...]
	Rock Island Arsenal Trail helps visitors explore area history The Rock Island Arsenal Trail officially launched on May 11. The self-guided trail uses a free mobile pass and allows visitors to explore 13 points of interest. They can enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River, outdoor recreation, historic landmarks and moments of patriotism. The pass is active for one year from the date of [...]
	Minnesota man pleads guilty to selling stolen cattle in northeast Iowa A Minnesota man has been convicted for stealing at least $150,000 in cattle and grain from a farmer, then moving and selling those goods in northeast Iowa.
	Learn about the latest scams at 'Stop the Scammers' event in Davenport The Iowa Department of Insurance and Fraud Services is bringing its “Stop the Scammers” roadshow to the River Center, 136 E. Third Street in Davenport, on May 12 at 5 p.m. to educate Iowans on the latest scams. In 2025, the Stop the Scammers roadshow helped stop $2.7 million from being sent to scammers and [...]
	Quad-Cities gas jumps 25 cents in one week, up 55 cents from last month Prices in the Quad-Cities are 55.6 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand $1.37 per gallon higher than a year ago.
	Homeless, pregnant asylum-seeker in Iowa sues Homeland Security A Des Moines asylum-seeker is suing the DHS after waiting over 750 days for work authorization, leaving her homeless and pregnant without healthcare.
	Zach Galifianakis cultivates plenty of laughs in 'This Is a Gardening Show' In the course of his delightful Netflix series, Galifianakis learns how to graft apple trees, make richer compost and generally self-sustain. "The future is agrarian," he says in every episode.
	U.S. Senate leader promotes Hinson’s Senate campaign, touts GOP’s tax cuts at campaign event Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Rep. Ashley Hinson visited Des Moines to discuss how 2025 GOP tax cuts are supporting Iowa workers and families.
	Will Sharpe imagines Mozart's day-to-day in 'Amadeus' Sharpe played a newly rich tech bro on vacation in The White Lotus. Now he's starring as Mozart, a musical genius who struggles to "read the room" in a new limited TV series.
	Death Notice: Fred Van Hoosier A funeral service and Mass of Christian Burial for Frederick D. "Fred" Van Hoosier, 94, of Eldridge, will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 18, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Davenport. The Mass will be livestreamed by visiting Fred's obituary at www.hmdfuneralhome.com. Burial with military honors will be in Rock Island National Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, May 17, from 2-4 p.m. at the Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home, Davenport. Mr. Van Hoosier died Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Davenport. Memorials may be made to the Donahue American Legion or to the Quad Cities Veterans Outreach Center. Online condolences may be made at www.hmdfuneralhome.com. A full obituary will appear in the May 13 edition of The NSP.
	4-year-old airlifted after crash on U.S. 30 in Whiteside County OSF Life Flight responded to the scene and transported the 4-year-old to an area hospital for medical treatment.
	KWQC partnering to host US Senate Democratic Primary debate The debate will air live at 7 p.m. May 14 on KWQC Cozi 6.3 and will be livestreamed on the KWQC apps.
	Ped Mall shooting suspect arrested Iowa City Police say the suspect in the Ped Mall shooting has been arrested.
	Trump wants to suspend the federal gas tax as prices soar amid war with Iran Suspending the federal gas tax would require an act of Congress.
	State responds to Tennessee NAACP lawsuit challenging redistricted map A redrawn U.S. House district map shows Memphis split into three separate districts. Photographs by John Partipilo/Tennessee LookoutState attorneys are asking the court to deny the NAACP Tennessee chapter’s request to stop a redrawn congressional map from going into effect before the 2026 election. NAACP Tennessee President Gloria Sweet-Love and the NAACP Tennessee State Conference filed an emergency petition in Davidson County Chancery Court on May 7, hours after Gov. Bill Lee signed into law the new U.S. House district map — which carved up the state’s only majority-Black, majority-Democrat district in Memphis. State attorneys contend that the governor and the Tennessee General Assembly, both named as defendants, do not conduct elections and have sovereign immunity, and are therefore “immune from this suit,” according to a response filed Friday by Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti’s office. The Tennessee Legislature’s Republican supermajority proposed and passed the new map in a three-day special session called by Lee at President Donald Trump’s instruction after a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision weakened part of the Voting Rights Act. To do so, legislators first had to repeal a long-standing Tennessee law that forbade mid-decade redistricting. The NAACP’s lawsuit argues that Lee did not specifically state that the special session’s purpose included repealing that law. State law requires special legislative sessions to be limited to the purpose stated in the governor’s proclamation. The law’s repeal was lawful, the state argues, because it was captured under the special session’s purpose of “making statutory changes that are necessary” to redraw Tennessee’s congressional districts. The NAACP and Sweet-Love contend that “the Governor didn’t use just the right magic words to describe the exact election laws he hoped to change when he convened the Special Session, and so any legislation resulting from the special session is ‘void,’” Skrmetti’s filing read. “Plaintiffs take an all too jaundiced view of the Tennessee Constitution and the Governor’s Proclamation that began the Special Session.” The lawsuit also challenged a provision that suspends residency requirements for candidates in the newly drawn districts, similarly stating that this was not included in Lee’s proclamation prior to the special session. The state’s response said the lawsuit fails to identify “imminent harm.” “With the recent changes to the qualifying requirements, the state has relaxed barriers to becoming a candidate,” the filing said. “In such circumstances, Plaintiffs can assert no imminent harm from that expansion of the potential candidate pool.” State attorneys also wrote that the lawsuit does not provide evidence of election administration problems. Rather, the Division of Elections has already begun to implement the new plan for the 2026 election, including the changes to districts and candidate qualifying and residency requirements, becoming the “status quo.” The state pointed to Purcell v. Gonzalez, a 2006 case in which the U.S. Supreme Court decided rules should not be changed too close to an election to avoid causing confusion. Notably, opponents of the redrawn maps also cite the so-called Purcell Principle in arguments that the new map should not be implemented for the 2026 election. The lawsuit’s proceedings are on pause while the Tennessee Supreme Court determines whether it will convene a three-judge panel to handle the case. The state hired three attorneys from Arlington, Virginia-based law firm Consovoy McCarthy to work on the case. 2026 NAACP Redistricting Lawsuit_Defendant Response Courtesy of Tennessee Lookout
	Rock Island Arsenal trail launches, connecting visitors to history This new experience connects the past to the present and invites visitors to explore 13 points of interest.
	NMDOJ touts statewide progress with new ‘crime gun’ data tracking initiative Kyle Hartsock, director of the New Mexico Department of Justice's Special Investigations Bureau, explains how the department's new Crime Gun Intelligence Center will help law enforcement officials across the state identify common links between shell casings and firearms they recover at crime scenes during a Dec. 15, 2025, presentation announcing the statewide initiative. (Joshua Bowling/Source NM)New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez on Friday announced that his state Department of Justice’s nascent effort to trace firearms used in multiple crimes across the state is already paying off.SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Torrez first announced the Crime Gun Intelligence Center in December and said it would help law enforcement agencies across the state to quickly and accurately scan evidence such as spent shell casings and recovered guns and check a national database of guns linked to crimes for potential matches. Officials at the time said giving law enforcement agencies around New Mexico machines that can access the federal database would be an important step in tracking weapon trafficking and repeat offenders. Since launching the initiative, law enforcement agencies around New Mexico have uploaded more than 700 shell casings into the database and linked 31 recovered guns to 74 shootings. Nearly half of the guns analyzed were used in crimes in multiple jurisdictions. “New Mexico didn’t wait to act, we built a first-in-the-nation model that is already delivering results,” Torrez said in a statement. “By centralizing this work within our office and partnering with agencies across the state, we are giving investigators the tools they need to connect the dots, solve cases faster, and prevent future violence.” Nationally, gunfire is the leading cause of death for children and teenagers, and New Mexico’s firearm mortality rate of 26.6 per 100,000 residents is among the highest in the nation, according to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. Before the New Mexico Department of Justice brought this technology to rural police departments and sheriff’s offices — including those in Gallup, Roswell and San Juan County — officers typically would have to travel several hours to access the database through a machine located in the Albuquerque Police Department. The initiative has since grown, according to an NMDOJ announcement. The Ohkay Owingeh Police Department joined the program in April. “Every casing entered, every firearm traced and every lead generated represents a step toward safer communities,” Torrez said in a statement. Courtesy of Source New Mexico
	4-year-old bicyclist airlifted after being hit by vehicle in Whiteside County On Saturday morning, the Whiteside County Sheriff's Office responded to a traffic crash involving a 4-year-old bicyclist on U.S. Route 30.
	Child shot during response to hostage situation, police say A child died during an incident early Sunday between officers and a person who was reported to be armed and holding several people hostage in Princeton, according to a news release from the Illinois State Police. It happened just before 3 a.m. Sunday. Officers with the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office and Princeton Police Department responded [...]
	Celebrate Louie Bellson's music in Rock Falls The 5th Annual Bellson Music Fest will be held on Saturday, June 6 and celebrates the legacy of Louie Bellson (1924-2009), the Rock Falls native who became a world-renowned drummer, composer, band leader and six-time Grammy nominee. Rock Falls Tourism, along with Bellson’s widow Francine Bellson and music director Josh Duffee, are hosting the festival. [...]
	Morrisey asks WV Supreme Court to uphold Raleigh County school vaccine ruling (Greenleaf123 \| Getty Images)West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey has asked the state’s highest court to affirm a Raleigh County Circuit Court ruling that found that — without religious exemptions — the state’s school vaccine policy violates a 2023 religious freedom law. West Virginia Attorney General J.B. McCuskey filed an amicus brief on Morrisey’s behalf in the state Supreme Court case Board of Education v. Guzman. The school board is appealing Judge Michael Froble’s November ruling that schools must allow children to attend school with a religious exemption to the vaccine requirements. “West Virginia law protects religious freedom, and that law must be followed,” Morrisey said in a statement Monday. “Parents should not be forced to choose between their sincere religious beliefs and their child’s right to an education. The Equal Protection for Religion Act is clear, and my administration will continue fighting to ensure that religious liberty is respected across state government.” States generally require school children be vaccinated against a number of infectious diseases, like measles, polio and chickenpox. West Virginia is one of only a handful of states with laws that do not allow families to opt out of vaccinations because of philosophical or religious objections to the shots. Morrisey issued an executive order his first day in office requiring the state to allow religious exemptions. The order is based on the 2023 Equal Protection for Religion Act. The governor did not rescind the order, even after lawmakers rejected a bill in the 2025 legislative session that would have codified the religious exemptions. The state school board has directed county boards not to allow religious exemptions. Two Raleigh County families filed a lawsuit against the state and county school boards. Froble ruled in the families’ favor. The school board formally appealed the ruling to the Supreme Court in March. In the amicus brief, the governor argues that the EPRA was “largely ignored” until he “brought life” to the law with his executive order. The law applies to the vaccine policy, he argues. “Respondent Miranda Guzman is one of those harmed by the Board’s resistance to EPRA,” the brief says. “She holds sincere Christian beliefs that prohibit her from vaccinating her daughter, A.G. She obtained the exemption the law provides, through the process the Governor established, from the agency the Legislature designated. She did everything right — but Petitioners turned her away anyway.” Besides the governor’s, other amicus briefs have been filed in the Supreme Court case. The League of Women Voters of West Virginia and the Defense Trial Counsel of West Virginia joined several health-related organizations and Education West Virginia in backing the state school board in the case. Attorneys for the families in the case are expected to file their argument in the case this week. The school board will then have until June 1 to file a reply brief, after which the court may decide the case on its merits or set the case for oral arguments before handing down a ruling. “This case is not about whether vaccines are effective or whether families may choose them,” Morrisey said in the statement. “It is about whether the government can ignore a law designed to protect sincere religious exercise. West Virginia must be a state where families of faith are not pushed out of the classroom because they exercised rights protected by law.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of West Virginia Watch
	Crime Stoppers solved: Man was wanted by Rock Island police Officials said Kutzman was wanted by the Rock Island Police Department on a warrant for possession of a stolen vehicle.
	4-year-old airlifted after crash with car while riding bicycle Deputies responded to a crash at 11:43 a.m. on U.S. Route 30 near Blue Goose Road, according to the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office.
	1 juvenile dead after shots fired during reported hostage situation Illinois State Police say shots were fired during a domestic disturbance call on the 2700 block of East Street on Sunday.
	1 juvenile dead after shots fired during reported hostage situation in Princeton, IL Illinois State Police say shots were fired during a domestic disturbance call on the 2700 block of East Street on Sunday.
	4-year-old bicyclist airlifted after being hit by vehicle in Whiteside County On Saturday morning, the Whiteside County Sheriff's Office responded to a traffic crash involving a 4-year-old bicyclist on U.S. Route 30.
	Kansas abortion rights advocate hoping for encore defeat of constitutional amendment in August vote Sandy Brown, president of the Kansas Abortion Fund, answers questions for the Kansas Reflector podcast during a May 8, 2026, interview at her Lawrence home. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)LAWRENCE — Kansas Abortion Fund president Sandy Brown wants Kansans to show up in August and repeat their 2022 decision to defeat a constitutional amendment that could upend abortion rights in the state. Four years ago, voters by a 59-41 margin defeated a proposal to overturn a Kansas Supreme Court ruling that established the right to terminate a pregnancy. This year, the proposal would eliminate the merit-based system for selecting state Supreme Court justices and make them elected positions instead. Proponents of the amendment, including Senate President Ty Masterson, see it as a way of electing conservative justices who will provide more partisan rulings on issues like abortion and school finance. “People need to stand up like they did before in 2022 and just ram it down their throats,” Brown said on the Kansas Reflector podcast. “Put up your yard signs, make a donation, get online.” Brown has led the all-volunteer, Lawrence-based nonprofit for the past 13 years. The Kansas Abortion Fund brings in about $400,000 in grants and donations each year to cover the costs of Kansas women seeking an abortion, regardless of their financial status. In 2025, they served 1,328 individuals — about 27% of the total number of Kansas women who received an abortion. “They probably wouldn’t know about us, the person who is pregnant and needs help, until they go to the clinic, and we work directly with the clinics,” Brown said. The organization began in 1996 as a small group of women in Lawrence who had a phone tree and helped women who needed an abortion. For a while, it was known as the Peggy Bowman Second Chance Fund, in honor of a prominent advocate for women’s rights. Bowman was a lobbyist for George Tiller, the Wichita abortion provider who was murdered in 2009 in his church by an anti-abortion zealot. When Bowman died of heart failure in 2016, her obituary read: “Her condition was undoubtedly aggravated by the catastrophe known as Sam Brownback and Kris Kobach.” Brown said the work of the Kansas Abortion Fund evolved after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. The ruling, just weeks ahead of the Kansas vote in 2022, left decisions about reproductive health care up to individual states. The most recent data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment shows that three-fourths of the 19,000 women who received an abortion in Kansas in 2024 were from out of state. The Kansas Abortion Fund only helps in-state patients, but Brown said the organization can connect out-of-state patients with other resources. Brown said she “wasn’t surprised at all” by the 2022 vote, even though it was an unexpected landslide for most political observers. “We had the polling and we had the energy behind us,” Brown said. “I wasn’t really surprised. Relieved, yes.” Kansas voters, she said, are “the salt of the earth, and you start talking about taking precious rights away from us, like bodily autonomy, you know, that’s just going way overboard for us.” This time, however, she said it is more of a challenge to inform voters about what’s at stake with the Aug. 4 ballot question. She said the wording of the proposed constitutional amendment is complicated. It reads: “The citizens of Kansas who are qualified electors shall have the right to elect the justices of the supreme court. The rules applicable for such elections and the designation of position numbers shall be provided by law. Justice positions 1, 2 and 3 shall be elected at the general election in November of 2028, justice positions 4 and 5 in November of 2030 and justice positions 6 and 7 in November of 2032, and every six years thereafter, respectively. Any vacancy occurring on the supreme court for an unexpired term shall be filled at the next even-year election for the remainder of such term by election as provided by law.” The amendment also strikes other parts of the constitution, including a prohibition against justices engaging in political activities. In simple terms, according to Brown: “It turns our justices into campaigning politicians. It’s terrifying.” The Marion County Record in December reported that Masterson, the Senate president from Andover who is seeking the GOP nomination for governor, told a Patriots for Liberty group that electing justices would reverse Supreme Court decisions on abortion rights. “But you can’t go out there and say it because they’ll say that if you elect your Supreme Court, you won’t have any right to abortion anymore,” Masterson said. He added: “If we elect our Supreme Court, they won’t force you to spend money on schools.” Brown said supporters of the amendment have an advantage when it comes to messaging. If someone asks, “Hey, you want to vote,” most people will say, “Sure,” she said. But she remains optimistic that voters will understand what’s at stake as the election gets closer. “I know that Kansans will rise to the occasion, and they will understand that this is about overturning abortion protections,” she said. “This is about electing Supreme Court justices where big money will be thrown in. And we all know what that what that’s going to look like. It’s going to get ugly.” Courtesy of Kansas Reflector
	Man arrested in connection with shooting in St. Ambrose University parking lot A Davenport man is accused of shooting at a driver in a St. Ambrose University parking lot, police said.
	Thinking about renting out your home? Here are 10 things you should know Thinking about renting out your home? Here are 10 things you should knowDeciding to rent out a property is an exciting step. Whether you are inheriting property, turning a former home into a source of income, or getting started in real estate investing, becoming a landlord is more straightforward than you might think, even for first-timers who have never managed a property before.You don’t need a property manager to do it well. With the right preparation and a few solid systems in place, independent landlords successfully manage their own rentals every day, keeping more of their income and staying in control of their investment. This guide from RentRedi for first-time landlords walks through the most common questions for new rental owners. You’ll learn about how to build steady cash flow, reduce turnover, and keep more of your profits from day one, so you can start your rental journey with confidence.1. Should I Form an LLC for My Rental?This is a question worth discussing with both a real estate attorney and a tax professional, since the answer depends on your specific situation. That said, it is worth understanding the basics before you become a landlord.Forming a limited liability company (LLC) creates a legal separation between your personal finances and your rental business. If a liability issue were to arise related to the property, an LLC can help protect your personal assets. Many landlords find this separation valuable as their portfolio grows.The trade-offs are worth knowing upfront. Forming an LLC involves filing fees that vary by state and some ongoing administrative requirements, and lenders sometimes have different financing terms for properties held in an LLC. Whether it makes sense depends on your specific situation. A quick conversation with a professional can help you decide.On the tax side, it is also worth knowing that rental property owners can take advantage of depreciation, a deduction that lets you write off a portion of the property’s value each year, which a tax professional can help you set up correctly from the start.2. What Do I Need to Do Before Listing the Property?Getting the property ready before listing sets the tone for the entire rental experience. A well-prepared unit attracts well-qualified tenants and gives you a stronger foundation for the landlord-tenant relationship.Begin with a thorough walkthrough of the property. Check that electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are all functioning correctly. Test every lock, inspect for any signs of mold or pests, and confirm smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working. Many municipalities require landlords to obtain a rental permit or pass a local safety inspection before a unit can be legally occupied, so checking in with your city or county office early is a worthwhile first step.After any necessary repairs, a professional deep clean goes a long way. A move-in-ready property justifies your asking price but also signals to prospective tenants that you take property management seriously, which is exactly the kind of first impression that attracts reliable renters.3. How Do I Know What to Charge for Rent?Pricing your rental well is one of the most important decisions you will make, and there are good tools to help you get it right.Start by researching comparable properties in your area: units with similar size, features, and location currently listed on rental platforms. Tools like Rentometer let you enter your property’s address and see how a proposed rent stacks up against nearby listings, giving you a data-backed starting point in minutes.From there, your strategy depends on your goals. Pricing slightly above market gives you room to adjust while gauging interest. Pricing at market value tends to generate steady, reliable demand. Pricing slightly below market is a useful approach if you want to move quickly and have your pick of a larger applicant pool. All three are legitimate approaches; the right one simply depends on your timeline and priorities.4. How Do I Find and Screen Tenants?Finding great tenants starts with a compelling listing. Use high-quality photographs, highlight the property’s best features and amenities, and post across both national and local rental platforms. You can explore different property management software options, which can syndicate your listing across multiple major sites from one place, making it easy to maximize your reach without extra legwork.Once applications come in, a consistent screening process helps you select tenants with confidence. Conduct a thorough review that covers five key areas: credit reports, criminal records, eviction history, income verification, and asset verification. All together, these metrics paint a complete picture of an applicant’s reliability and financial stability.As a general benchmark, most landlords look for tenants whose gross monthly income is at least three times the monthly rent. They may accept a tenant who makes less with a cosigner who makes the required amount.When calling prior landlords for references, ask specific questions: Was rent paid on time? How did the tenant leave the property? Were there any neighbor complaints? Would they rent to this person again? Those questions give you a much clearer picture than a simple yes-or-no verification.Fair housing law applies throughout this process. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, and disability. Many states and cities add further protections. Whatever criteria you establish, applying them consistently to every applicant keeps your process both fair and legally sound.5. What Should I Know About the Lease Agreement?A well-crafted lease protects both you and your tenant by setting clear expectations from day one. Your lease should cover rent due dates, accepted payment methods, late fee policies, the security deposit amount and conditions, maintenance responsibilities, pet policies if applicable, and the process for ending the tenancy early.Laws around lease requirements, security deposits, and tenant rights vary meaningfully from state to state. State and local government websites typically have dedicated landlord-tenant law sections, and federal resources through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are a useful reference as well. State-specific lease templates are widely available as a starting point, and having the document reviewed by a real estate attorney before use is highly encouraged.Reviewing the key terms with your tenant before they sign, rather than simply handing over a stack of pages, builds trust and reduces misunderstandings down the line. After signing, keep digital copies accessible to both parties so that neither side has to hunt for the agreement when a question comes up later.6. How Do Security Deposits Work?A security deposit protects your property by giving you a financial cushion in the event a tenant causes damage beyond normal wear and tear. The amount you can collect, how you must hold it, and the timeline for returning it are all governed by state law and vary widely, so look up your state’s rules before collecting anything.Walk through the property with a detailed checklist before the tenant takes possession. Photograph every room, appliance, wall, and floor. A video walkthrough is even more valuable, as it captures things a photo cannot, such as the sound of a sticking door or a flickering fixture. Have the tenant sign the checklist to confirm the property’s condition at move-in.When the tenant moves out, repeat the process before returning the deposit. Normal wear and tear, such as minor scuffs, small nail holes, or ordinary carpet wear, is part of renting and generally cannot be deducted. Clear documentation from both ends of the tenancy means both parties have a fair, shared record to refer to.7. How Should I Collect Rent?Setting up a clear, efficient rent collection process before the first payment is due makes everything easier for you and your tenant. The lease should spell out the due date, any grace period, the late fee structure, and the accepted payment methods.Mobile rent payment platforms have transformed this part of the business for independent landlords. Tenants can pay from their phones, set up automatic recurring payments, and receive reminders before rent is due — all without a single paper check changing hands.On your end, you can track incoming payments in real time and set up automatic late fees that calculate and apply themselves, so you do not have to chase anyone down. Advanced features like autopay make a measurable difference: units rented by tenants using autopay have a 99% on-time payment rate, according to RentRedi data since January 2020.One small scheduling tip worth noting: Aligning your rent due date a few days before your own mortgage payment gives you a comfortable buffer between the two.8. What Is the Best Way to Handle Maintenance?Staying on top of maintenance is one of the best investments you can make in your rental business, both for your property’s long-term value and for your relationship with your tenants. Proactive inspections two to four times per year, with proper advance notice to your tenant, let you catch small issues before they develop into bigger ones. Addressing a minor plumbing issue early is far less costly than the water damage it can cause if left unattended.For incoming requests, a response within 24 to 48 hours is a reasonable and professional target, and some states even set legal requirements in that range.Building a short contact list of trusted contractors for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and general repairs before you need them puts you in a strong position when something comes up. And keeping written records of every request (what was reported, when, and how it was resolved) is good practice for both parties.9. How Do I Keep Good Tenants Once I Have Them?Retaining a reliable tenant is one of the best financial decisions a landlord can make. Every renewal from a tenant who pays on time and takes care of your property is a win for your income stability and your peace of mind.Consistent, proactive communication goes a long way. Reaching out before issues arise, responding to maintenance requests promptly, and treating the rental as a long-term relationship rather than a transaction are habits that make tenants want to stay.Offering practical benefits helps too. Reporting on-time rent payments to credit bureaus, for example, helps tenants build their credit scores, and according to a 2024 TransUnion report, 84% of renters saw their scores improve after their payments were reported. RentRedi’s own data shows that tenants are 13% more likely to pay rent on time when credit reporting is in place, which is a win for landlords and tenants alike.10. How Can Property Management Technology Help Me Do This Without a Property Manager?One of the most common questions first-time landlords have is whether they can manage a rental property on their own without it consuming all of their time. The answer is yes, and modern property management technology is a big reason why. Self-managing is far less expensive than hiring a full-service property manager, who typically charges 8% to 12% of monthly rent.Property management platforms are built specifically for independent landlords who want to run their rental like a business without the overhead. From a single dashboard, landlords can list vacancies, screen applicants, collect rent, manage maintenance requests, and generate tax-ready financial reports, all without juggling multiple tools or platforms. Tenant apps can make the experience equally seamless on the other side when mobile rent payments, autopay, and maintenance submissions are built in.For first-time landlords who want to do this themselves and do it well, having the right tools in place from the start makes all the difference.You Are More Ready Than You ThinkBecoming a landlord for the first time does not require years of experience or a team of professionals behind you. Good preparation, a few reliable systems, and a willingness to learn as you go are key.The steps involved — setting up your business, preparing the property, pricing it right, screening carefully, drafting a solid lease, collecting rent efficiently, staying on top of maintenance — are all entirely manageable with the right approach.Thousands of independent landlords successfully self-manage their properties, build meaningful income, and hold onto great tenants year after year. With a clear plan and the right tools, you are well positioned to do the same.This story was produced by RentRedi and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	'Atlanta Journal-Constitution' chief steps down as bold goals yield to tough realities The owners of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution invested $150 million to reinvent the paper. The changes have been significant. Three years in, the payoff has been modest.
	How to use artificial intelligence to enhance the retail experience How to use artificial intelligence to enhance the retail experienceThe AI retail market is projected to reach $24.1 billion by 2028, a significant rise from $15.4 billion in 2023. This growth underscores the urgency for retailers to move from experimentation to strategic implementation.For retailers, the challenge is not simply acknowledging AI’s potential but navigating its complexities to unlock real, measurable value. With new tools emerging constantly, knowing where to invest can be a significant hurdle. This article from Driveline Retail Merchandising provides a roadmap for understanding and implementing AI to enhance the retail experience, improve efficiency, and boost profitability.Key TakeawaysAI enhances customer experience through personalization, 24/7 support, and improved in-store environments.AI optimizes retail operations by improving demand forecasting, inventory management, and supply chain efficiency.A successful AI strategy requires clear business objectives, data readiness, and the right AI tools and partners.The future of AI in retail includes agentic AI, which is expected to further revolutionize the industry.Understanding the AI Revolution in RetailTo effectively use AI, it’s essential to understand its current impact and the core technologies driving its adoption. It’s about separating the hype from the tangible applications that can drive your business forward today.AI has moved from a competitive advantage to an essential part of retail infrastructure for many companies. The modern consumer expects personalized experiences, instant support, and a frictionless shopping journey across all channels. AI is now required to manage this complexity and meet heightened consumer expectations. The cost of inaction is high, potentially leading to decreased customer loyalty and a loss of market share to more agile, data-driven competitors.The data speaks for itself. According to an NVIDIA survey, in 2024, 69% of AI adopters report increased annual revenue, and 72% experience reduced operating costs. Furthermore, 42% of retailers claimed to be using AI, with another 34% piloting initiatives, indicating a clear industry-wide shift.Understanding the Core AI Technologies Transforming RetailSeveral key AI technologies are at the forefront of the retail revolution. Understanding their functions is the first step to harnessing their power:Machine learning and predictive analytics: By analyzing vast datasets, algorithms identify patterns to inform strategic decisions. These patterns range from demand forecasting to dynamic pricing, where prices are adjusted in real time based on demand, competition, and other variables. Supervised learning models can be trained on historical data to predict future outcomes, while unsupervised learning can uncover hidden patterns in customer behavior.Natural language processing (NLP): NLP powers advanced chatbots and virtual assistants, enabling them to understand customer queries and provide helpful, contextually relevant responses. NLP technology can be the difference between a frustrating, dead-end bot interaction and a helpful, humanlike conversation that can resolve complex issues and even offer personalized advice.Computer vision: This technology enables AI to interpret the physical world. In retail, computer vision is used for inventory management through shelf-scanning robots, loss prevention by detecting unusual behavior, and in-store analytics that track customer traffic patterns. It provides a rich source of data on how customers interact with the physical store environment.Generative AI: The technology behind tools like ChatGPT, generative AI can create new content, such as marketing copy, product descriptions, and even personalized email campaigns. It powers innovative customer experiences like AI-driven styling suggestions and virtual try-ons. Beyond content creation, it can also generate synthetic data to train other AI models, helping retail companies overcome challenges of data scarcity. Elevating the Customer Experience with Artificial IntelligenceAI’s most visible impact is on the customer experience. AI can improve customer engagement and enable a new level of personalization. Courtesy of Driveline Retail Merchandising Personalization at Scale With AI-Powered Recommendations and MarketingAI algorithms are instrumental in transforming vast amounts of customer data into personalized experiences.Data collection and processing: AI systems gather data from multiple touchpoints, including e-commerce interactions, in-store purchase history, and loyalty program activity. The systems then use this data to create a holistic, 360-degree view of each customer.Predictive analytics: By analyzing consumer data, AI can predict future customer behavior and preferences with a high degree of accuracy, anticipating their needs before they even arise.Behavioral tracking and modeling: AI creates individual customer profiles that evolve in real time. This capability allows for highly relevant customer interactions, such as sending a push notification with a special offer on a product a customer has been browsing.A deep understanding of the customer enables a range of powerful applications:Product recommendations: AI systems suggest products a customer is likely to be interested in, based on their past behavior and similar user profiles. The personalized approach improves the customer experience and increases average order value.Targeted promotions: With the help of AI, retailers can deliver personalized offers and discounts that are most relevant to each customer, increasing the likelihood of conversion and building customer loyalty.Tailored marketing messages: Customizing the content, timing, and channel of marketing communications helps maximize consumer engagement and increase conversion rates.Retailers must be transparent with customers about how their data is being used and provide them with control over their data. Building trust is essential for the long-term success of any personalization strategy.The Rise of Conversational AI in RetailAI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants have evolved into sophisticated conversational agents that can handle a wide range of customer interactions, offering significant benefits:Providing 24/7 customer support: This always-on technology handles customer inquiries around the clock, reducing the need for after-hours staffing and minimizing wait times — a critical factor in customer satisfaction.Answering FAQs: Chatbots provide instant, accurate answers to frequently asked questions about delivery, returns, and store policies, freeing up human agents to handle more complex, high-value interactions.Guiding customers through their purchasing journey: By providing tailored product suggestions and proactive engagement, conversational AI helps customers find what they need and complete their purchase with ease and confidence.The integration of voice-activated AI assistants, such as Alexa and Google Assistant, is another growing trend. Customers can now use voice commands to create shopping lists, search for products, and even make purchases, creating a truly hands-free and convenient shopping experience.Enhancing the In-Store Experience With AIThe impact of AI is not limited to the digital realm. In physical stores, AI is being used to create a more efficient, engaging, and personalized shopping environment.Smart shelves: Shelves automatically track inventory and detect out-of-stock items.Physical AI: Robotics-assisted scanning system in store to track inventory, predict OSA and phantom inventory.Cashier-less checkout systems: Eliminate wait times and create a truly frictionless experience.AI-powered store analytics: Provide insights into customer behavior through space mapping systems, heat mapping, and queue management.Augmented reality (AR): Another technology that is enhancing the in-store experience. For example, some retailers are using AR apps that allow customers to visualize how a piece of furniture would look in their own home before they make a purchase.Optimizing Retail Operations Through AIBeyond customer-facing applications, AI is a powerful tool for optimizing back-end operations, improving efficiency, and driving profitability.One of the most powerful applications of AI in retail is its ability to dramatically improve demand forecasting and inventory management. Accurate forecasting is critical for profitability. AI-powered predictive analytics offers a level of precision that traditional methods cannot match.Advanced Demand ForecastingAI goes beyond simple historical sales data to create a more nuanced and accurate picture of future demand, through:Diverse data integration: AI models can simultaneously analyze a wide range of variables, including historical sales figures, current market trends, upcoming holidays, and even local events or weather patterns that could impact purchasing behavior.Identifying hidden patterns: Machine learning algorithms can identify subtle correlations and patterns that would be harder for a human analyst to spot. For example, AI might find a link between a local sporting event and an increase in sales of specific snack items, allowing for proactive inventory adjustments.Social media sentiment analysis: AI can monitor social media and other online platforms to gauge public sentiment and identify emerging trends. A sudden spike in online conversations about a particular product can be an early indicator of a future surge in demand.Intelligent Inventory OptimizationMore accurate forecasting directly leads to more efficient inventory management, which has a significant impact on the bottom line. AI helps retailers achieve this through:Reduced overstocking: By having a clearer picture of future demand, retailers can avoid ordering excess inventory that leads to costly markdowns, storage fees, and waste, particularly for perishable goods.Minimized stockouts: Conversely, AI helps prevent stockouts of popular items, which can lead to lost sales and frustrated customers. The system can automatically trigger reorder points to ensure shelves remain stocked.Automated replenishment: AI-driven systems can automate the entire replenishment process, from identifying the need to placing an order with the supplier, reducing the manual workload on employees and minimizing the risk of human error.Effective Returns ManagementAI can also bring a new level of intelligence to product returns, a significant challenge for many retailers. AI can help with:Predicting return rates: By analyzing historical return data, AI can predict the likely return rate for different products. This information can be used to adjust inventory levels and inform product descriptions and marketing strategies to reduce the likelihood of returns.Identifying fraudulent returns: AI can analyze patterns in return data to identify and flag potentially fraudulent activity, such as organized return fraud rings or individuals who consistently abuse return policies. This capability can significantly reduce losses associated with return fraud.The Role of AI in Logistics and Warehouse AutomationAI is also transforming retail supply chain optimization. Here’s how:Optimizing delivery routes: AI can analyze real-time traffic data, weather conditions, and delivery schedules to determine the most efficient routes, reducing fuel costs and delivery times.Automating warehouse processes: Autonomous mobile robots and other AI-powered automation solutions can streamline warehouse operations, from picking and packing to inventory control, leading to faster order fulfillment and fewer errors. The rise of “dark stores,” which are dedicated to fulfilling online orders, is a testament to the power of warehouse automation.Improving overall supply chain efficiency: AI provides end-to-end visibility into the supply chain, enabling more accurate demand planning and a more agile response to disruptions. This focus on supply chain efficiency is a key area where AI can deliver significant ROI.A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your AI StrategyDeveloping a successful AI strategy requires a thoughtful, systematic approach. Here is a five-step guide to help you get started. Courtesy of Driveline Retail Merchandising Step 1: Identify Your Business Objectives and AI OpportunitiesThe first step is to clearly define what you want to achieve with AI. Rather than chasing the latest technology, start by identifying your key business challenges and opportunities. Whether it’s improving customer satisfaction, reducing operational costs, or increasing sales, your AI strategy should be directly aligned with your business goals.Step 2: Ensure Data Readiness and QualityData is the lifeblood of AI. To get the most out of your AI initiatives, you need to have high-quality, accessible data. Invest in robust data governance and preparation processes to ensure your data is accurate, complete, and unbiased. Creating a single source of truth for your customer and operational data is a critical first step. Effective data collection is a crucial part of this process.Step 3: Choose the Right AI Tools and PartnersThere are a vast number of AI tools and platforms on the market. When evaluating vendors, look for partners with a deep understanding of the retail industry who can provide a comprehensive solution that meets your specific needs.Step 4: Integrate AI With Your People and ProcessesTo be successful, you need to integrate AI with your existing workflows and support your employees with new tools and insights. This process requires a focus on change management and employee training. The right partner will help you integrate AI into your existing workflows and support your team through the process.Step 5: Measure, Learn, and IterateAI implementation is an ongoing process of improvement. It’s essential to establish a framework for monitoring AI model performance and using the insights to make continuous improvements. This iterative approach will allow you to adapt to changing market conditions and customer behaviors and ensure your AI initiatives continue to deliver value over the long term.This story was produced by Driveline Retail Merchandising and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Third Missionary Baptist Church pastor retires Rogers Kirk Jr. has led the Davenport congregation for more than 30 years.
	Child dead after hostage situation ends in officer-involved shooting, troopers say Illinois State Police responded to a domestic disturbance Sunday in the 2700 block of East State Street, according to a news release.
	How do no preset spending limit credit cards work, and who qualifies? How do no preset spending limit credit cards work, and who qualifies?A no-limit credit card refers to a card with no preset spending limit. These cards offer flexibility by letting your spending power adjust based on factors like income, credit history, and payment behavior.Unlike traditional credit cards with fixed caps, a no-limit card’s available credit changes over time. While they can make large purchases easier, they also carry risks if your cash flow is inconsistent. Below, Ramp delves deeper into the benefits and drawbacks of these credit cards, their various types, the qualifications for approval, and more.Note: The cashback percentages, limits, fees, and other figures mentioned in this article are for illustrative purposes only. They do not represent guaranteed or expected rates. Actual terms, credit limits, rewards, and approval criteria vary by card issuer and may change at any time. Readers should verify current details directly with each issuer before applying.What is a no-limit credit card?A no-limit credit card doesn’t have a fixed spending cap. Instead, your limit adjusts from month to month based on your credit score, income, and payment history. Consistent spending and on-time payments can increase your limit, while missed payments, lower profitability, or reduced income may shrink it.The term “no-limit” is also sometimes used to describe cards with exceptionally high limits, such as invitation-only black cards that require steep fees and strong financial profiles.Types of no-limit credit cardsNo-limit cards fall into a few main categories:Charge cards: Charge cards don’t have preset limits, but you must pay the full balance each month. Your spending power shifts based on income, credit history, and payment behavior.Credit cards with no preset spending limit: These let you carry a balance, unlike charge cards, but your available limit still changes with your payment history, cash flow, and overall credit profile.Invitation-only black cards: Often seen as status symbols, these cards come with very high spending power and steep fees. The best-known example is the American Express Centurion Card, which charges a $10,000 initiation fee and a $5,000 annual fee.How do no-limit credit cards work?No-limit credit cards don’t have a fixed cap; your spending power changes over time based on how the issuer evaluates your profile. Common factors include:Income and cash flow: Higher revenue usually allows more flexibility.Credit score and history: Strong credit signals responsible usage and may unlock higher limits.Payment history: On-time payments can increase your spending power, while late payments may reduce it.Recent usage: Large charges or rapid spending changes can temporarily tighten your limit.Having no preset limit doesn’t mean you can spend without restrictions. Your available credit adapts to your financial situation. Some cards require payment in full each month (charge cards), while others let you carry a balance.No preset spending limit vs traditional credit limitHere are the key differences between a traditional credit card and a card without a credit limit: Courtesy of Ramp Pros and cons of no-limit credit cardsNo-limit credit cards can offer more flexibility than traditional cards, but they also carry unique risks.ProsFlexibility to make large purchases without rigid limits.Potential for higher limits with a strong payment history.Protection against rising operational costs.Rewards on large purchases, such as cashback, points, or miles.ConsSome cards require payment in full each month; others charge high interest if you carry a balance.Variable, undisclosed limits that may change from month to month.Higher risk of overspending without a fixed cap.Complex fees and often higher annual costs than regular cards.Who should consider a no-limit credit card?No-limit credit cards work best for businesses with high or seasonal expenses, especially if you need the flexibility to cover large purchases or frequent business travel. They’re a good fit if you have steady cash flow, disciplined financial habits, and want access to premium rewards tied to higher spending.They’re less suitable if cash flow is tight, budgeting is a challenge, or you tend to carry balances. Many of these cards require payment in full each month or charge higher fees, which can make them risky if your finances aren’t stable.How to qualify for a no-limit credit cardQualifying for a no-limit credit card requires stronger credentials than a standard business credit card. Issuers usually expect excellent personal credit (a FICO Score of 700+), steady business revenue, and a history of paying vendors and creditors on time. They may also weigh your company’s operating history, profitability, and available cash reserves.To improve your chances, maintain consistent revenue and keep clear financial records that demonstrate cash flow stability. Paying vendors, lenders, and credit accounts on time builds a solid business credit profile. Separating business and personal expenses also strengthens your credibility with issuers.This story was produced by Ramp and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Inflatable Fun Day scheduled for family fun at Musco Sports Center, Muscatine The Musco Sports Center will roll out the first Inflatable Fun Day from May 16-17 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Families, children, teens, and anyone looking to burn off some energy can enjoy an indoor playground of inflatable bounce houses, an obstacle course, and open‑play activities including soccer, football, and more, a news release [...]
	South Rock Island Township hosting free giveaway The South Rock Island Township, 4330 11th Street, is hosting a free giveaway of household items. Free clothes, household items, coats, jackets, kitchen utensils, furniture, a sewing machine and more will be distributed on Tuesday, May 12 from 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Items will be available both inside and outside and all items are [...]
	How to optimize Amazon listings for Rufus AI How to optimize Amazon listings for Rufus AIOnline sellers should know that Amazon's Rufus AI will recommend your competitor if your listing fails to answer a shopper’s question clearly. This becomes visible when browsing a product and asking Rufus basic fit and use-case questions.When a product doesn't meet a specific requirement, Rufus doesn't stop there. Rufus immediately offers to surface competing products that do meet the stated criteria.That moment changes how businesses should think about Amazon optimization. Rufus is not just helping shoppers understand your product; it is actively rerouting them when your listing falls short.This is not hypothetical. It is already happening inside live product detail pages.To stay competitive, sellers need to understand how Rufus evaluates listing content, what it trusts, and how to structure listings so they consistently answer shopper questions before Rufus looks elsewhere.Below, Intero Digital examines how Amazon's Rufus AI evaluates listing content.What Is Rufus, and Why Does It Change Shopper Behavior?Rufus is Amazon’s AI shopping assistant that answers product questions in real time using your listing content and supporting signals. It lives directly on product pages and allows shoppers to ask natural-language questions like they would in a conversation.Instead of scanning your listing manually, shoppers can now ask:“Will this fit a king-size bed?”“Is this durable for outdoor use?”“Does this work with iPhone 16 Plus?” Rufus then synthesizes answers using multiple inputs, including your listing copy, structured attributes, reviews, Q&A, and other contextual signals.This creates a fundamental shift: Your listing is being interpreted and summarized. If your content does not clearly answer a question, Rufus fills the gap or redirects the shopper.However, it does not treat every part of your listing equally. Rufus relies on a clear hierarchy of trust and understanding that hierarchy is the key to optimization.How Rufus Reads Your Listing: The 3-Tier HierarchyRufus evaluates listing content using a hierarchy that prioritizes clarity, structure, and authority. It is not scanning for keywords; it is scanning for answers it can confidently use.Tier 1: Primary Sources (Highest Trust)Tier 1 content is where Rufus looks first because it is brand-controlled, structured, and easiest to interpret. This includes your product description, A+ Content, and structured attributes like size, material, compatibility, and fit.When written well, these elements provide direct answers with minimal ambiguity. That makes them the foundation of every Rufus-generated response. If your Tier 1 content is incomplete or vague, Rufus has to rely on less reliable sources or move on entirely.Tier 2: Validation Sources (Context and Reinforcement)Tier 2 content helps Rufus validate and refine what it finds in Tier 1. It does not usually define the answer, but it heavily influences how that answer is framed.This includes customer reviews and the Q&A section. For example, if a shopper asks whether a backpack is waterproof for heavy rain, Rufus may combine:A listing claims that it is “water-resistant.”Reviews indicate it performs well in light rain but fails in downpours.The result is a nuanced answer that reflects both the brand’s positioning and real-world performance. This is why vague Tier 1 content is risky. If your listing does not clearly define the claim, Rufus leans more heavily on reviews, which you do not control.Tier 3: Low-Clarity Sources (Limited Influence)Tier 3 content has minimal impact on Rufus because it is harder to interpret and less structured. This includes images without readable text, backend search terms, and hidden metadata.These elements still matter for conversion and traditional search, but they rarely drive AI-generated answers unless the information is explicitly clear and extractable. If critical product details only exist in images or backend fields, Rufus will likely ignore them.Rufus Content Trust Hierarchy at a GlanceRufus prioritizes content based on how reliable and easy it is to interpret. The table below shows how each tier functions and what it means for your optimization strategy: Courtesy of Intero Digital The takeaway is simple: If your most important information is not in Tier 1, you are relying on weaker signals to carry your listing.What Rufus Rewards: The 3 Signals That Determine VisibilityRufus surfaces content that is easy to match to a question, rich in concrete detail, and reinforced across sources. If your content lacks these qualities, it is far less likely to be used.Directness: Clear Answers WinRufus prioritizes content that directly answers a question without interpretation.“Fits iPhone 16 Plus” is immediately usable.“Designed for modern smartphones” is not.The difference is clarity. Rufus needs a clean match between the question and the answer. Write your content as if every line is responding to a specific shopper query.Specificity: Vague Language Gets IgnoredRufus favors concrete, verifiable claims over general marketing language. Statements like “premium quality” or “built to last” do not provide usable information. In contrast, details like materials, dimensions, compatibility, and certifications give Rufus exactly what it needs.Specificity reduces ambiguity, which increases the likelihood that your content will be surfaced.Redundancy: Reinforced Claims Gain TrustRufus assigns more confidence to information that appears across multiple sources. If a key claim is present in your bullets and description and then echoed in reviews, it becomes a stronger signal. This corroboration makes it easier for Rufus to trust and present that information.Your most important product facts should appear in more than one place. Single-point claims are weaker and easier to overlook.The Mindset Shift: From Keywords to Answer CoverageRufus shifts Amazon optimization from keyword placement to answer coverage. The goal is to ensure your listing can answer real shopper questions completely and clearly.The old model focused on placement and density. The new model focuses on completeness. Instead of asking, “Did I include this keyword?” the better question is “If a shopper asked Rufus this question, would my listing answer it clearly?”This requires mapping the most likely shopper questions (fit, compatibility, durability, and use case) and making sure each one is addressed directly in your Tier 1 content.Keywords still matter for traditional search. Rufus does not replace that system; it adds a new layer on top of it. But listings that ignore answer coverage will develop gaps, and Rufus is designed to fill those gaps with competing products.How to Optimize Your Listing for RufusYou can optimize for Rufus by identifying answer gaps, rewriting Tier 1 content, and reinforcing key claims across your listing. The process is structured and repeatable.Start by thinking like a shopper. Identify the most common questions someone would ask about your product.Use a tool like ChatGPT to analyze current listings for question-and-answer coverage and to help generate other potential customer questions.Then, review your listing and check whether each question is answered clearly and directly.Next, replace vague language with concrete claims. Each bullet point should serve a purpose and answer a specific question.Then, look at your Q&A and reviews. Repeated questions and consistent feedback reveal exactly what shoppers (and Rufus) care about. If your listing does not address those points directly, you have a gap.Finally, reinforce your most important claims. Make sure critical product details appear in multiple places across your Tier 1 content so Rufus can validate them with confidence.The New Standard: Answer-Complete Listings WinRufus will recommend a better product if your listing can’t fully answer a shopper’s question. That is not a flaw; it is the intended behavior. The sellers who adapt will focus on completeness instead of visibility.Winning listings in a Rufus-driven environment are structured to answer questions clearly, consistently, and confidently across multiple sources. If you want to stay competitive, audit your top listings now. Because Rufus already is.This story was produced by Intero Digital and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	City of Moline hosts 2nd annual Bike to Work Day The celebration is in partnership with the Quad Cities Bicycle club and will be from 6 to 9 a.m. on May 11 at Bass Street Landing.
	How to insure an engagement ring How to insure an engagement ringIf your ring is worth over $1,000, it is a good idea to get it insured sooner rather than later. Engagement ring insurance protects your investment if the ring is damaged, lost, stolen, or falls victim to a mysterious disappearance. The best part? Insuring your ring is much easier than you might think. Today, BriteCo walks you through how to insure engagement rings and factors that impact ring insurance costs. Whether it’s engagement ring insurance or wedding ring insurance, having coverage for your valuable jewelry is essential.What Is Engagement Ring Insurance?Engagement ring insurance is a tailored insurance coverage designed to protect your engagement ring from unforeseen circumstances, ensuring its sentimental and monetary value remains intact. This specialized standalone jewelry insurance protects against potential risks such as loss, theft, or damage, allowing you to enjoy your engagement without worrying about the “what ifs.”Why Do You Need Engagement Ring Insurance?Here’s why you might want to think about getting some jewelry coverage:Accidents and Loss: Let’s face it, life can be unpredictable. Your ring might accidentally slip off your finger while doing something as mundane as washing dishes or playing your favorite sport.Theft: Insuring your engagement ring means that if the unthinkable happens, such as theft, you won’t have to bear the entire financial burden alone.Damage: If your engagement ring needs repairs or refurbishment due to unforeseen damage, you won’t have to break the bank to restore its sparkle.Replacement: Maybe your engagement ring is a unique, one-of-a-kind family heirloom. Standalone jewelry insurance can cover the cost of recreating a similar piece if the original is lost or damaged beyond repair. BriteCo How Much Is Insurance For An Engagement Ring?If you’re asking yourself, “How much is it to insure an engagement ring,” then you should know that it can vary depending on factors such as the jewelry coverage limits, your location, and the intricacies of each policy:Ring Value: Unsurprisingly, the more your engagement ring is worth, the higher your insurance premium will likely be. Insurers calculate the cost based on the appraised value of your ring.Location: Believe it or not, where you live can impact insurance rates. Urban areas may experience higher rates due to increased risk factors like theft and loss.Deductibles: Like any insurance policy, engagement ring insurance coverage often comes with a deductible. This is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible might lower your premium, but you’ll pay more if you ever need to make a claim.Personal Factors: Your history can play a role. Factors such as credit score and prior claims may influence your insurance rate.Does Diamond Ring Insurance Cost More?While diamonds might be a precious stone, the short answer is no, diamond ring insurance does not cost more. Jewelry insurance is based on the overall cost of the item, and does not depend entirely on the stone. Enjoy your diamond, and rest easy knowing insurance will be simple, affordable, and provide the protection you need.Step 1: Choose Your Jewelry Insurance ProviderA common option is to add your ring to your homeowner’s insurance policy. However, when finding the best engagement ring insurance policy, consider insuring with a top-rated specialized jewelry insurance provider.Step 2: Get an Engagement Ring Insurance QuoteOnce you choose your provider, you can get a quote telling you the available policy options and their cost. There are a few pieces of information you’ll need to submit to an insurance company to receive an accurate quote, including:Engagement Ring Appraisal — An appraisal is a detailed description of the ring, including the approximate cost of replacing the ring. This information needs to be updated, which isn’t typically a problem for recently engaged couples looking into how to insure a ring. If, however, you want to insure a ring you’ve had for many years, you may need to get it reappraised before you can do so.Basic Information About the Policy Holder — An insurance provider will ask for basic contact information about the policyholder and the person wearing the ring if they are not the same person.Other Information Required by the Jewelry Insurance Provider — Insurance companies may ask additional questions about your occupation, prior claims, criminal history, and more to create a customized policy.Step 3: Choose Your Jewelry Insurance PolicyNow, you may be wondering, how much is engagement ring insurance? A widespread but mistaken belief is that insuring your jewelry items comes with a hefty price tag, but that’s not true.Fortunately, there are policies available to fit various budgets so that you can keep your ring safe regardless of the ring insurance cost. When shopping for a jewelry insurance policy, be sure to note coverage limits, deductibles, and limitations to ensure the ring insurance cost is worth the price you’re paying. Additionally, consider whether the policy is a blanket or scheduled policy and review the settlement terms. These policy components greatly determine the ring insurance cost. In general, a blanket policy costs more than a scheduled policy. Although the latter requires more documentation, since it is the most common jewelry policy.The settlement terms have to do with the claims process and whether you receive actual cash value or replacement cost should your ring be stolen, misplaced, or damaged. While replacement cost policies may increase your overall ring insurance cost, they do provide higher-quality coverage.How Much Does Engagement Ring Insurance Cost?When you’ve invested in a beautiful piece of jewelry like a diamond engagement ring, it’s important to consider your insurance options. Insuring your ring may not be the first thing you think of, but it’s an essential step to protect your valuable piece. One option is to add it to your homeowners insurance policy or renters insurance policy. However, the coverage limit for jewelry items on a typical homeowners policy or renters insurance policy might not be enough to cover the cost of the ring. In that case, you might need a standalone jewelry insurance policy for more comprehensive coverage.Different factors determine your actual engagement ring insurance cost, including the value of your ring, the specifics of your policy, and your risk factors. The annual cost of insuring your ring will typically range from 1% to 3% of the appraised value.A deductible is the amount that an insured must pay in the event of a loss before the insurance company contributes. In other words, it is a certain amount of agreed-upon money that you will pay upon a claim. When a claim is made, and say your deductible is $500, you will only be responsible for paying up to $500 toward the cost of that claim. However, most customers prefer policies with no deductibles.You should get your ring insured as soon as possible after purchasing it (even before you propose). A business that specializes in jewelry insurance will provide you with the best value for a ring insurance policy. The actual amount will be determined by numerous factors, as previously said, including where you live and the cost of the ring. This means that you should expect to pay between 50 cents to $1.50 for every $100 of value.Engagement ring insurance is a risk-mitigation strategy in the event of loss, theft, damage, or mysterious disappearance. Preventative maintenance may also covered by ring insurance from a specialized jewelry insurance provider.How To Insure An Engagement RingWhen you’ve determined that insurance for your engagement ring is the right step, here’s how to proceed:Research Jewelry Insurance CompaniesWhile adding your ring to your homeowner’s insurance is a common choice, exploring a specialized insurance company for optimal coverage is advisable.Ask For An Engagement Ring Insurance QuoteOnce you’ve chosen an insurance company, the process typically involves getting a quote. Most jewelry insurance providers enable you to get an initial quote online in a matter of minutes with some basic information This quote outlines the available policy options and their associated costs. To receive a final, accurate quote, you’ll be required to provide certain additional information:Engagement Ring Appraisal: This involves a comprehensive report of the ring, encompassing the estimated cost for replacement.Basic Information: When setting up a jewelry insurance policy, the provider will ask for your basic information, such as your address and the best way to contact you. Suppose someone other than the policyholder is going to be wearing the ring. In that case, the provider will also ask for their information.Additional Details: You should also expect inquiries about your occupation, claims history, background, and more as insurance companies seek to tailor a customized policy to your specific needs.Pick A Jewelry Insurance Policy Tailored To Your NeedsThere’s a common misconception that protecting your jewelry comes at a steep price, but that’s not the case.There are affordable jewelry insurance options that allow you to keep your ring secure without breaking the bank. When you’re on the hunt for a standalone jewelry insurance policy, pay attention to details like coverage limits, deductibles, and any restrictions to ensure the cost aligns with what you’re getting.Do I Need To Purchase Engagement Ring Insurance?When protecting your engagement ring, the decision to get insurance isn’t always as clear-cut as saying, “I do.” Here are two key questions to ask yourself:Is your engagement ring a family heirloom, or does it have a high monetary value?Are you prone to misplacing things or working in an environment where your ring faces potential damage?If so, standalone jewelry insurance can offer you greater peace of mind.FAQsHow much is insurance on an engagement ring?Engagement ring insurance cost relies on several factors, such as the ring’s appraised value, the chosen provider, and the coverage. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from 1% to 3% of the ring’s value annually for insurance coverage.How much is diamond ring insurance?The cost to insure an engagement ring with diamond stones varies based on factors such as the ring’s appraised value, coverage limits, and the provider, so it’s best to obtain quotes for specific pricing.How much do engagement rings cost?The cost of engagement rings varies widely, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars or more. The average cost of an engagement ring in the U.S. in 2025, for example, was around $6,000.ConclusionEngagement ring insurance provides financial protection for your valuable symbol of love, covering potential loss, theft, or damage, something worth considering if you’re about to propose or have already exchanged the famous “I do’s.”This story was produced by BriteCo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Furlough vs. layoff vs. termination: What's the difference? Furlough vs. layoff vs. termination: What's the difference?If you're worried about losing your job, you're not alone. Today's economy is tricky. Costs are still rising because of tariffs, and many people are worried that companies will reduce their headcounts to reduce costs or as they transition to AI.The loss of a job, no matter how it comes about, could make it difficult to keep up with your bills, resulting in debt and necessitating debt relief. But the way you lose a job could have an impact on the benefits you're entitled to afterward. That's why it's important to understand the difference between furlough, layoff, and termination.In a nutshell, the difference between furlough, layoff, and termination is as follows:Furlough is a temporary, unpaid leave from work.Layoff is a permanent loss of a job, not due to an employee’s actions.Termination is a permanent end to a job, often (though not always) for a specific reason.It’s important to know what rights you have if any of these things happen to you, so Freedom Debt Relief took a closer look at each one.Key Takeaways:Employers sometimes cut labor costs with furloughs, layoffs, or terminations.A furlough is an unpaid, temporary interruption in work, but you keep your job and benefits.Layoffs and terminations are permanent. Layoffs are usually no-fault, and terminations (firings) are typically for a reason.Understanding the Legal and Financial Implications of Losing Your JobFurlough, layoff, and termination all result in the loss of your paycheck. But the difference between layoff and termination, for example, could influence whether you're entitled to collect unemployment benefits.Generally speaking, if you're furloughed or laid off from your job, you're entitled to unemployment benefits. If you're terminated for cause, you can't collect unemployment. Your state will ask you why you're no longer working.What makes things tricky is that there's such a thing as a “no-fault” termination. From an unemployment standpoint, a layoff and a no-fault termination are virtually the same, in that you should be able to collect benefits as long as you meet your state's requirements.There's also a difference between voluntary and involuntary termination. Voluntary termination is when you decide to leave your job, whether it’s to take a new one, to retire, or for another reason. Involuntary termination is when your employer decides to eliminate your job.With a voluntary termination, you're not entitled to unemployment benefits. With involuntary termination, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits if it's considered a no-fault termination.Most U.S. companies operate on an at-will employment basis. This means your employer can terminate your job at any time, as long as it’s for a legal reason. (It’s illegal for an employer to terminate your job based on race, religion, sexual orientation, age, or gender, for example.)The difference between layoff and termination could also be a factor when you’re looking for a new job. A layoff may not make it harder to find work again, as you can simply explain in interviews that your job was eliminated through no fault of your own.Being terminated for cause, on the other hand, could make it harder to get hired again. If you're terminated for cause, be prepared to explain what steps you're taking to avoid ending up in a repeat situation.What You Need to Know About a FurloughA furlough, or mandatory suspension from work without pay, is as brief or as long as your employer needs it to be, provided they follow certain rules. If you’re furloughed, it’s generally because your employer doesn't want to lay you off but also can’t keep paying your wages in the near term. While there’s no standard time period for a furlough, they’re usually short.Here are some things to know about being furloughed.You shouldn’t work without payAs a furloughed employee, you shouldn't do any work for your employer. According to the Department of Labor, if you answer work-related phone calls or emails or engage in any other work-related tasks, your employer must pay you for the time you worked. This holds true whether you’re a salaried or an hourly employee.You get to keep your benefitsIf your employer gives you benefits in addition to your salary, you typically keep them while you’re furloughed. So if you depend on your employer for health insurance, retirement accounts, life insurance, or other benefits, you probably won’t lose them during this time. However, you might still be required to contribute toward things like health insurance premiums, despite not getting a paycheck.It’s also common for employers to offer matching contributions to employee retirement plans. You generally won’t get those matching contributions while you’re furloughed, though, because you’re not getting paid, and therefore aren’t contributing to your retirement plan yourself.You can seek new employmentIf you’ve been furloughed and are technically still someone’s employee, you can still look for a new job. Many furloughed employees take temporary jobs during their furlough period so they can bring in some income. If your goal is to return to your job, you may want to turn to the gig economy for flexible work in the meantime. Earning at least some money could help you avoid the need for debt solutions.You can collect unemployment benefitsYou can usually collect unemployment benefits as a furloughed employee. The amount you’re eligible to receive depends on your wages, as well as your state—each state has a maximum weekly unemployment benefit. If you return to work, your unemployment benefits end.In some cases, when you're furloughed, your hours and paycheck are reduced, as opposed to being paused completely. In this situation, you may be eligible for partial unemployment benefits. Most states use a formula to reduce unemployment benefits based on how much money you're earning while furloughed and working part-time.Your employer should communicate with you regularlyBecause a furlough is not permanent, your employer should keep you updated on when you may be able to return to work. When your company is ready for you to come back, you usually receive a formal recall notice with a return date.At that point, you have the right to not return to work (such as if you've found a new job). But if you don't go back to work, you generally stop being eligible for unemployment benefits, since the situation becomes a voluntary termination.It’s important to manage your finances carefullyAlthough a furlough may only be temporary, you may end up going weeks or months without a paycheck. It’s important to avoid debt as much as you can during that time.Aim to reduce your expenses, and if you have an emergency fund, now’s the time to tap it before charging expenses on a credit card. Furthermore, if you’ve been furloughed and have an installment loan you’re paying off, like a mortgage or personal loan, you may want to see if your lender will let you pause your payments temporarily. You may also be eligible for credit card forbearance.What You Need to Know About a LayoffIn a layoff, you’re let go from your job due to no fault of your own. It could be that your company’s needs have changed, and they’re downsizing their staff. Or that money is tight, and your employer needs to cut its headcount. It’s possible to be rehired after a layoff, but it’s not something to bank on. Here are some things to know about layoffs.You should seek unemployment benefitsIf you’ve been laid off, file an unemployment claim as soon as possible in the state where you worked. If you receive severance pay from your employer, you might not be eligible for unemployment benefits right away, but it’s still a good idea to file your claim so it gets processed. In some states, no benefits are paid for the first couple of weeks after you file, so get that waiting period started.You may need to apply for new health insuranceTypically, when you’re laid off, you lose your workplace benefits right away, including health insurance. You could sign up for COBRA, a program that continues your health insurance while you’re furloughed or laid off. But typically, you have to pay the portion of your insurance that used to be covered by your employer. That could be quite expensive.You may be better off finding a more affordable alternative through the Affordable Care Act marketplace (healthcare.gov). Medicaid may also be an option if you qualify based on income. Or you may be able to secure health coverage from a spouse’s job.You need to understand your severance packageYour employer may offer you a severance package when they lay you off. It may be a one-time payment or several payments spaced out over time. Your severance may be based on the length of your employment.To get paid, you may also have to sign a severance agreement in which you give up certain rights. It could pay to review that agreement with an employment lawyer before you sign it. Your severance package and agreement may be negotiable, so you could end up with better terms.Even if you’re not entitled to severance, it’s important to get the details of your layoff in writing in case your unemployment claim is denied. It’s also important to understand what benefits you’re entitled to (if any) as part of your layoff, such as being paid for accrued vacation or sick days.You should know what rights you haveLayoffs often come out of the blue. But depending on the size of your company, your employer may be required to give notice of a layoff.The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act generally requires companies with 100 or more full-time employees to give proper notice (usually 60 days), particularly for mass layoffs. If your company violates this rule, you may want to speak to an employment attorney.You should try to leave on good termsIt can be difficult not to take a layoff personally, even when it’s clear that you aren’t being fired for cause. But one thing you generally don’t want to do is express anger toward your employer. You never know when your employer’s situation might change and when a job may open up for you, whether it’s the one you’re losing or a new opportunity. So it’s worthwhile to leave on good terms and maintain a professional relationship with your employer even after you’re collecting a paycheck. You also might need to ask your employer to be a reference for a future job.What You Need to Know About TerminationWhen you’re terminated from a job, it typically means you’re being let go for cause. However, that’s not always the case. Some companies offer voluntary termination, meaning an employee resigns, usually in exchange for some type of payment. And it’s also possible to have a no-fault termination, which is similar to a layoff.Keep in mind that even though most U.S. employment is at-will, you may have grounds for wrongful termination if you're let go for an illegal reason. That includes:Discrimination based on your race, nationality, gender, religion, or age.Retaliation for reporting a safety violation or harassment in the workplace.Letting you go because you took leave you were entitled to, or filed a workers’ compensation claim.Here are some additional things to know about termination.Don’t expect unemployment benefitsUnemployment benefits are generally available to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. If you’re terminated for cause, whether because of issues with your performance or for violating your employer’s rules, you usually can't claim unemployment benefits. If you file a claim, your employer will likely contest it and say that you're not entitled.However, you may be able to argue that you're eligible for unemployment due to “constructive dismissal.” Constructive dismissal is when an employee feels compelled to leave their job because their workplace environment is intolerable. This concept may apply if your workplace or manager was hostile, if your working conditions were unsafe, or if your office was unsanitary.You may or may not be entitled to severanceIf you’ve been terminated from your job, your employer may still offer you severance benefits. If not, you may be entitled to payment for accrued but unused sick or vacation time. Talk to your human resources representative to learn more.Whether you're eligible for severance or not, it's important to request documentation detailing the terms of your termination. That includes:Your employment end date.The status of your final paycheck.The reason for your termination in writing. Prepare to lose your benefitsWhen you’re terminated, you typically lose your workplace benefits. As is the case with being laid off, you may need to find a new source of health insurance. However, you may also be eligible to get coverage under COBRA for a period of time (though the cost means it’s often better to consider other options, such as the Affordable Care Act marketplace).If you have a workplace retirement plan, it’s important to understand your options. You may be allowed to keep your money in your existing plan. But even if that’s the case, rolling it into a new retirement plan could be a better option.Start your job hunt as soon as possibleIf you’ve been terminated, you probably can’t get unemployment benefits. That could make it difficult to pay your bills and lead to credit card debt. You might also blow through your emergency savings quickly without a job.Look for work as soon as possible. Here are a few job search tips that could help you out.Network online. Join professional groups on Facebook and LinkedIn, and make it known that you’re in the market for a job in your industry.Bolster your skills. The more skills you learn and develop, the more options you may have. You can also consider free courses and certification programs.Prepare for interviews. If you were at your most recent job for a while, your interview skills may, understandably, be rusty. Practice in front of a mirror to boost your confidence, or find a friend or family member to do mock interviews with you so you get more comfortable.How Employers Handle Furloughs, Layoffs, and TerminationsWhen you're furloughed, laid off, or terminated, you're often called into a meeting with your manager and a representative from your company's human resources department. If it's a mass layoff, you may simply be notified by email.Your employer should provide you with information that includes:The details of a furlough, such as whether your hours are being reduced versus cut completely.The nature of your termination, such as whether you're being let go for cause.Your final employment date.Your final paycheck date.What benefits to expect, if any.The terms of your severance agreement.How to return company property, such as a laptop or cell phone, you use for your job.If you’re being terminated for cause, you may be asked to leave immediately. In that case, you may be escorted by a human resources representative to collect your belongings from your workspace. This may also happen if you’re being laid off through no fault of your own and your job is ending right away.Furlough vs Layoff vs Termination: Key Differences at a GlanceThere are a number of key differences between a layoff and a termination, and being furloughed. Here’s a summary for easy reference. Courtesy of Freedom Debt Relief It’s important to have a clear understanding of the nature of your job loss, as it could impact your eligibility for benefits, among other things.Protecting Your Finances After Furlough, Layoff, or TerminationLosing your job, no matter how it happens, could impact your personal finances. If you find yourself out of a job, take these steps.Assess your emergency fundSee how many weeks or months of bills you can pay out of your savings. If your essential bills come to $2,400 a month and you have $6,000 in savings, you could cover 2.5 months of bills without resorting to debt. And that doesn’t include any money you might get from severance or unemployment benefits.Review your budgetThere may be expenses you can cut back on while your job situation is in flux. Comb through your budget carefully, and try to pinpoint a few bills to reduce. Make sure to prioritize your essential bills like rent, car payment, and food. Consider canceling extras like streaming services temporarily, then resubscribe once your financial situation improves.Get relief from your debtIt can be hard to pay a mortgage or make minimum payments on your credit cards when you’re out of work. Contact your lenders and credit card issuers to see what options you have. You may be able to pause some of your payments or negotiate the terms of a loan to lower your monthly payments. You can also find out how debt relief works if you feel your debts are no longer manageable.Unfortunately, the loss of a job could lead to more debt, since you may need to rely on credit cards or loans if you're not getting a paycheck. But you may be eligible for debt settlement.Figure out your most affordable path to health insuranceLosing a job often means losing your health coverage. Going without insurance could result in catastrophic bills if you need surgery or emergency care, so it’s important to research your options. Depending on your situation, you may be able to join a spouse’s insurance plan at a cost, or you may qualify for subsidies that make an ACA plan more manageable for a time.Find out if you qualify for government assistanceDepending on your financial situation, you may qualify for government assistance beyond unemployment benefits. You may be eligible for:SNAP, which provides food benefitsHousing assistanceMedicaidUtility bill assistanceEligibility for these programs generally varies by state.Losing a job can be a harsh blow, whether it’s temporary or permanent, and whether you did something wrong or not. Don’t hesitate to turn to family and friends for support as you figure out your next steps.This story was produced by Freedom Debt Relief and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Redefining Plastic Surgery Standards in the Social Media Age (BPT) - With celebrities and influencers openly sharing their surgical tweaks and procedures, there's never been a more candid conversation around plastic surgery and beauty ideals. With this new emphasis on transparency, the taboo around plastic surgery has shifted, but with it, the standards around patient care have become murky.In our social media-driven world, doctors can post altered before-and-afters, controlling their image in a way that doesn't reflect their work and leaving it hard for patients to know who to trust. Across Rowe Plastic Surgery's offices in New York, New Jersey and Palm Beach, FL, the consistent results and 5-star reviews give patients confidence that these are doctors they can trust. Founded in 2003 by renowned, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Norman Rowe, Rowe Plastic Surgery specializes in a full range of surgical procedures from facial aesthetics to body and breast reshaping, especially after weight loss and pregnancy. They can seamlessly refer patients within the group to ensure the best possible care and results. With a "one-ring" policy for all incoming calls, Rowe Plastic Surgery is redefining the industry standards one patient at a time: warm, elevated and most of all, accessible.Beyond aesthetics, many of the procedures that the Rowe team performs are life-changing and medically necessary, from reconstructive procedures after breast cancer, to necessary skin removals and breast reductions. For one Rowe Plastic Surgery patient, her breast reduction reduced her pain and allowed her to start running. Always advocating for and in full support of this quality of life improvement, the Rowe team sponsored her running group for a marathon last year. These types of long-standing and recurring patient-doctor relationships are not uncommon across the Rowe Plastic Surgery offices."As a true patient-centered practice, we work with each patient on a personalized approach to their treatment," shares Dr. Rowe. "There is no one-size-fits-all."What should you look for when choosing a plastic surgeon? Dr. Rowe recommends the following factors.5 Things to Look For in a Plastic SurgeonBoard CertificationNot all cosmetic providers are board-certified plastic surgeons. Patients should look for credentials, extensive surgical training, and a proven track record of safety and results.Consistent, Natural-Looking ResultsA great surgeon doesn't create the same look on every patient. Results should feel balanced, individualized and aligned with the patient's anatomy and goals.Transparency: Online and In PersonIn today's social media landscape, heavily edited before-and-afters can make it difficult to know what's real. Patients should look for honest communication, authentic patient outcomes and realistic expectations from the very beginning.A Personalized ApproachThere is no one-size-fits-all approach to plastic surgery. The right surgeon takes time to understand each patient's lifestyle, concerns, goals and long-term vision before recommending treatment.A Reputation Built on TrustBeyond photos, patient experience matters. Reviews, referrals, long-term patient relationships and consistent care are often the clearest indicators of a practice patients can truly trust.To see the difference for yourself and read Rowe Plastic Surgery's patient testimonials (including reconstructive and post weight loss cases) click here.
	That Sound of Loose Coins Jingling in Pant Pockets? It’s Illinois’ Tax Relief “Special Payment” for Home Owners. Before the House passed the megaprojects bill last month, we were told that the drafters didn’t want to just do some symbolic or “token” property-tax relief. After the chamber passed the bill, we were told the property-tax component will provide meaningful statewide relief for home-owners.
	Freedom at Your Own Pace: How Savvy Travelers are Mastering Solo Travel Trend (BPT) - The thought of navigating a new destination without a familiar companion and stepping outside the comfort of a group is the ultimate catalyst for personal growth. Traveling solo means replacing compromise with total independence, transforming every decision into an empowering act of self-discovery that restores your spirit and sharpens your sense of self. Recently, the AARP's 2026 Travel Trends survey found that travel remains a top priority for 86% of older adults, and with its known physical and emotional benefits, each step of the journey is a chance to boost your health, happiness, and sense of community."For the modern traveler, solo travel isn't about being alone. Rather it is a unique moment where you are able to have the freedom to choose your own pace," said AARP Services Director of Travel Steve Guilday. "Whether you're joining a small-group cultural experience, a cruise with like-minded travelers, or a wellness-focused retreat, solo travel allows you to step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and make connections you might not otherwise do when traveling with others."While the enthusiasm for travel remains high, the AARP survey also notes that cost remains the biggest hurdle. However, older adults are becoming "deal hunters," with more than half taking advantage of loyalty programs like an AARP membership to stretch their budgets.Savvy Planning. Like any other travel, start your solo adventure by choosing the kind of trip you would like to experience. Through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, you can plan an R&R beach vacation, foodie tour across a new city, or solo hiking trip without paying full price. With exclusive deals, seasonal offers, and special savings on hotels, car rentals, and cruises, AARP members can get a $50 gift card of their choice when they book a flight vacation package and receive up to $100 in onboard credit on select cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe and more. For a limited time, you can kick off summer with an escape and save 30% or more off select hotels. Plus, get a $100 gift card on stays of 3+ nights when you book via AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. Offer ends 05/25.Cruising to a New Community. Solo travelers often find it easier to meet new people. By choosing to take a cruise, many find camaraderie without being constrained by a traditional travel partner. Explore a new destination or enjoy one of your favorites as you sail from port to port. Utilizing your AARP membership, take advantage of Holland America Line's fleet of 11 ships with more than 500 sailings a year to all seven continents, including cruises in Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe. Additionally, you can receive up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom, based on the length of the cruise and the stateroom chosen.Or set sail with HX Expeditions where you can experience some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on the planet from Antarctica to Alaska and Greenland or the Galápagos Islands to the Northwest Passage, and more. AARP members and any travel companions can circumnavigate the world and receive a 5% discount on all cruise fares. You can also receive a €100 per person onboard credit. This offer will be stackable with all in-market HX offers. Terms and conditions apply.If your solo adventures have you looking to stay closer to land, travel to the city centers and towns that dot picturesque riverbanks, exploring diverse landscapes and the fascinating history and cultures. You can sail the rivers of the world from the waterways of Europe to the Nile in Egypt, India's Ganges, and the Mekong in Vietnam with Grand European Travel (GET). AARP members save up to $100 in addition to any promotional savings on all-inclusive luxury river cruises. Plus for a limited time, you can sail in style with up to 20% off 2027 all-inclusive river cruises and enjoy world-class gourmet cuisine in luxury accommodations on Europe's rivers and beyond. Members save an additional $100 per member when they book directly with GET. Ends 5/31.The Year of the Rail. In 2026, traveling by train is no longer merely an option of getting yourself from point A to B, but rather it can be the destination itself. With more options that offer a seamless blend of efficiency and upscale comfort, travelers are able to swap out the stress of airport security for panoramic views, high-speed travel, and rejuvenation. You can use your AARP membership to save 5% on more than 40 rail and cruise vacations with Vacations by Rail in popular destinations like France's famous waterways, the Rhine and Danube Rivers, Alaska's Inside Passage and trans-Atlantic crossings.Navigating Miles Not Stress. A solo road trip could offer you the ultimate wellness retreat as the day-to-day stresses feel further behind you the more miles you travel. For a limited time, AARP members looking for a little alone time to rediscover the joy of their own company can save up to 35% off base rates when you choose to Pay Now or Pay Later at the Avis or Budget counter — giving you the perfect combination of savings and flexibility.Finding a Strategic and Safe Stay. When traveling alone, you do not want your evening resting place to be filled with any unwanted surprises. An AARP membership gives you peace of mind and plenty of options with the nearly 7,400 Choice Hotels® properties around the world. Members save 10% on their stays and for a limited time, you can receive 15% off 2+ night stays if you book by December 31, 2026. Check out their website for additional terms and stay dates.At Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, you can plan ahead and save more. With over 6,500 properties in North America, members save 20% off the Standard Rate when booking at least seven days in advance and selecting the "Pay Now & Save, Non-Refundable" option. Or, you can save 10% off the Standard Rate and get flexible booking when you select the "AARP Members: Save 10%" rate.Solo travel is the ultimate act of self-care, offering a rare opportunity to disconnect from daily demands and reconnect with yourself. Learn more about additional discounts for AARP members by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits.
	Warming up after Monday with several rain chances After a fantastic Mother's Day weekend, our week starts out sunny and mild today. Showers and a few storms are possible Tuesday and some of the storms could be strong to severe. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	College aviators will compete in national championships in Quad Cities The Quad Cities will take center stage in collegiate aviation this May as Visit Quad Cities and the Quad Cities International Airport host SAFECON 2026, the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) national championship from May 18-23, a news release says. Throughout the week, hundreds of aviators representing more than 20 colleges and universities will compete [...]
	Rock Island and Henry County real estate transactions for May 10, 2026 Here are homes sales and property sales in Rock Island County and Henry County.
	New Italian cuisine restaurant, Coya's Cafe moving, tattoo and art studio grand opening, and more Quad-Cities business news New Italian cuisine restaurant, Coya's Cafe moving to Avenue of the Cities, new tattoo and art studio grand opening, among other Quad-Cities business news.
	Quad-Cities Popular Astronomy Club: Leaving a legacy, PAC founder’s donation benefits Augustana College In the 57 years since Carl Gamble Observatory and John Deere Planetarium opened, it has given both Augustana students and the public a better understanding of the universe.
	Oregon's most unexpected gubernatorial candidate? A pencil with a point Oregon's public schools rank last in fourth-grade reading, according to an analysis of national testing. As a wake-up call for elected leaders, Pencil is running for governor as a write-in candidate.
	Sheriffs, police, mayors rally to save Utah Medicaid program for the homeless, parolees A supporter wears an "I love Medicaid" button during a news conference held at Pioneer Park in Salt Lake City on May 6, 2025. (Katie McKellar/Utah News Dispatch) Key points The Targeted Adult Medicaid Program provides 12 months of continuous Medicaid coverage to eligible Utah adults who are chronically homeless, navigating the justice system, or in need of treatment for substance use or mental health issues. The state program’s uninterrupted coverage has been possible through a waiver from the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, but the agency has now indicated it doesn’t plan to renew the waiver. Local leaders, law enforcement and advocates are calling on federal officials to allow the TAM program to continue, and public comment is being accepted through May 21. A wide variety of Utah leaders — including sheriffs, police chiefs and Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall — along with advocates for people experiencing homelessness and struggling with addiction or mental health are all rallying to save a Utah Medicaid program from being discontinued. Federal officials with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently signaled to state officials that they won’t allow Utah to continue its Targeted Adult Medicaid Program, known as TAM. Since 2017, Utah’s TAM program has provided 12 months of continuous Medicaid coverage to Utah adults without dependent children earning up to 5% of the federal poverty level who are: Chronically homeless. Involved in the justice system through probation, parole, or court ordered treatment for substance abuse or mental health. Need substance abuse treatment or mental health treatment. Though state Medicaid officials said in public hearings last week that they may be able to move the program into the state’s current Medicaid expansion programs, advocates and other local leaders remain concerned that the program is in jeopardy and could result in lapsed coverage for vulnerable Utahns because they could lose continuous eligibility. The threat to the TAM program — which advocates say is crucial to help reduce jail recidivism, prevent people from returning to homelessness and help people recover from addiction — comes as Utah state leaders have been working to improve Utah’s homeless system with a special focus on people who repeatedly cycle in and out of jails and homeless shelters. Utah homeless board looks at data — and cost — of ‘super high utilizers’ on shelters, jails About 6,500 Utah adults were covered under TAM as of April 2025, according to an overview of the program posted on the state’s website. “TAM has saved thousands,” Stephanie Burdick, a co-leader of the Protect Medicaid Utah Coalition, wrote in a document she’s been circulating to stakeholders while urging them to advocate for the program. “But now we must save it from federal bureaucrats that fail to understand our program.” The issue Utah’s TAM program was previously approved by federal officials under a federal waiver program known as the 1115 waiver. The state’s waiver is up for renewal, set to expire June 30 next year. Though Burdick said state leaders have indicated they’re willing to adjust Utah’s TAM program to comply with a six-month recertification period required by language in HR1, the “big, beautiful” law approved by Congress last year, federal CMS officials have signaled to Utah Medicaid officials that they could take a more restrictive approach and may deny any waiver that has continuous eligibility, even if it’s capped at six months. “Therefore, Utah has decided to go forward eliminating the TAM program UNLESS they are able to get an indication from CMS that they will approve of 6 months of uninterrupted coverage for TAM,” Burdick wrote. So now advocates are urging people to come together to express support of the program to convince CMS to let it stay, she said. Utah Medicaid officials have held multiple public hearings, including two last week, to field comments. The public comment period will stay open until May 21. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX In a May 1 letter to Julie Ewing, Utah’s state Medicaid director, Sarah Aker, the acting director of CMS said the federal authority “does not anticipate” approving or extending section 1115 applications that allow for continuous eligibility — like TAM does — “beyond what is required or available under the Medicaid or CHIP statutes.” CHIP is Utah’s Children’s Health Insurance Program. “The use of section 1115 demonstration authority to expand continuous eligibility beyond statutory limits raised concerns about Medicaid and CHIP fiscal and program integrity, leading to an increased risk of Medicaid and CHIP payments on behalf of individuals who would otherwise have lost eligibility in the absence of such a section 1115 demonstration,” Aker wrote. “This shift in approach reflects the agency’s commitment to preserving these vital programs for the most vulnerable Americans and being good stewards of taxpayer dollars.” Aker also wrote that CMS “will continue to work with Utah to support innovative section 1115 demonstrations that promote the objectives of Medicaid and CHIP.” Ewing, in a public hearing Thursday, acknowledged concerns about TAM’s future. “Since 2017, TAM has provided tremendous value to Utah, and we’re really proud of our program,” she said, noting it was adopted in Utah before the state adopted statewide Medicaid expansion. Ewing said it has provided a “critical foundation” for Utahns to “overcome significant life challenges and improve their long-term health outcomes, as well as having the added benefit of actually supporting Utah’s public safety needs.” TAM has saved thousands. But now we must save it from federal bureaucrats that fail to understand our program. – Stephanie Burdick, a co-leader of the Protect Medicaid Utah Coalition “If this were a state decision that we could make, we would continue this program as is,” she said. However, she also said that “while TAM once offered more benefits than adult expansion, that’s no longer the case. The TAM benefits and the adult expansion benefits align. And the main difference … is that TAM offers 12 months of continuous eligibility.” Ewing said that under federal law, HR1, Medicaid officials are now required to review adult expansion members every six months instead of every 12 months. “The only pathway we have right now to continuous eligibility is through the waiver authority,” she said. “What can be approved in a waiver is entirely at the discretion of CMS at the federal level.” Ewing said Utah officials “have made several requests to permit continuous eligibility for TAM,” but CMS has said in the written notice “it will no longer approve or extend continuous eligibility authority under our 1115 demonstration waivers.” “So the discontinuation of continuous eligibility is not a state decision,” she said. “Because CMS will no longer approve that continuous eligibility, TAM members will transition to the adult expansion Medicaid program effective July 1, 2027. And we do this with a commitment to ensure that people who are eligible for Medicaid remain enrolled in Medicaid.” Ewing said “we share” concerns about any Utahns losing Medicaid coverage even if they’re eligible. “Getting to this outcome of making sure people maintain Medicaid eligibility will require the support of people in this room, and we hope you will join us in our efforts,” she said. Calls to continue TAM Both the Utah Chiefs of Police Association and the Sheriffs’ Association have sent letters last week to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services urging support of keeping TAM alive. “From a public safety perspective, TAM has proven to be an effective and practical tool in addressing some of the most persistent challenges facing law enforcement across our state,” Kane County Sheriff Tracy Glover, president of the Utah Sheriffs’ Association, wrote. “A significant majority of TAM participants are justice-involved individuals who often struggle with substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and housing instability,” he added. “These are the same underlying factors that frequently drive repeated law enforcement contacts, incarceration, and crisis situations in our communities.” Glover pointed to Sanpete County, where he wrote “the use of TAM to support reentry services for jail inmates has been associated with a reported 61% reduction in recidivism.” From a public safety perspective, TAM has proven to be an effective and practical tool in addressing some of the most persistent challenges facing law enforcement across our state. – Kane County Sheriff Tracy Glover, president of the Utah Sheriffs' Association “Outcomes like this translate directly to fewer repeat offenses, fewer victims, and safer communities,” he said. Glover said sheriffs “strongly encourage” Utah officials to pursue a waiver that “preserves the core elements that make TAM effective, including uninterrupted access to care for this high-risk population.” Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall also spoke during a public hearing Thursday, noting that in 2024 she responded to a call to top state leaders to improve public safety, which among many things included calls to expand county jail capacity. “But without stability for someone coming out on the street on the other side of an arrest or a jail stay, we will see no better outcomes and no real improvement on our streets,” she said. “Targeted Adult Medicaid is an absolutely critical component of stability for justice-involved people.” Without TAM, Mendenhall said “full implementation” of Salt Lake City’s public safety plan would be “much more difficult if TAM goes away.” Advocates and providers of services for the homeless, addiction treatment and others also urged state officials to preserve TAM, especially its continuous eligibility to help vulnerable people continue to have access to coverage and treatment when they need it most. A majority of the Salt Lake County Council also issued a letter supporting the program. So did the Weber-Morgan Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, along with former lawmaker and Provo Mayor Marsha Judkins. Daniel Morris, who spoke during Thursday’s public hearing, called TAM a “beacon of hope for me.” “After being in prison for six years and losing everything, reentering society felt scary,” Morris said. “I was worried about many things: my health, mentality and (physical well-being). I knew I needed treatment and therapy, and having such caring people … help me apply for TAM, (I) started to build that hope of succeeding with a second chance.” Morris said now, through TAM, he can get that therapy, and “I feel and know with this coverage, I can succeed.” “It’s hard to believe and scary to think that TAM could be eliminated,” he said. “It is doing so much good in providing so much help for me and many others. I just ask, please … reconsider what is to be lost with how much there has been gained with the help of TAM.” Editor’s note: The key points for this story were written by a Utah News Dispatch journalist. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Utah News Dispatch
	Thousands of NJ residents face food stamp cuts under new federal rules Federal changes to the national Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program could reduce benefits for some New Jerseyans and force others off the food stamp program, while shifting more program cost to state taxpayers. (Photo by U.S. Department of Agriculture)Many New Jerseyans on food stamps could see their monthly payments reduced, and 47,000 could lose benefits entirely, under Trump administration actions that also shift hundreds of millions of dollars in program cost to state taxpayers, according to New Jersey officials. The funding changes come on top of new work rules in the food stamp program that could put benefits out of reach for some participants starting this month. Veterans, former foster children, and healthy older adults are among the groups that previously were exempt from work rules but now must prove they are employed or volunteering at least 20 hours a week. Elizabeth McCarthy, president and CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, said the impact of all these changes isn’t yet clear, but confusion is widespread. “A lot of people just don’t know that this is coming, and I think that is one of the scariest things for us,” McCarthy told the New Jersey Monitor. New Jersey’s food stamp program provides a monthly cash benefit — on average $194 — to help about 430,000 low-income families purchase groceries, feeding some 850,000 people statewide. McCarthy said 80% of these households include a working adult. Nearly half of households that receive food stamp benefits in New Jersey have small children at home and 44% include a disabled person, according to national anti-poverty advocates. “It’s not as though people are not working. It’s just the compliance … is going to be very difficult for some people,” she said. Applying and maintaining benefits requires people to upload pay slips, bank statements, utility bills, and more. The food stamp program is also called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. The changes stem from a law President Trump signed in July that also slashed federal funding for Medicaid, the national healthcare program for low-income people. In addition to expanding work requirements for people who receive food stamps, the law changes how the benefits are calculated, calls for states to shoulder more of the administrative burden, and penalizes states with higher rates of over- or under-payments. State Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha warned lawmakers that those changes could reduce what the federal government gives needy families by as much as $150 million this year and $270 million next year. Many food stamp recipients will see benefits cut by $10 a month, but some may lose as much as $100, according to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office “Tens of thousands of SNAP participants are facing new hurdles just to maintain assistance,” Cha told members of the Assembly budget committee last week. The federal law Trump signed last year revises how participants can deduct utility costs and how the government calculates food costs, among other things. “Many residents who remain eligible for assistance could still lose coverage or food support because complex paperwork or missed deadlines prevent them from completing required steps,” Cha said. In all, New Jersey’s program cost more than $1.9 billion in 2024, according to an analysis by KFF, a national healthcare policy group, almost all of which has traditionally been covered by the federal government. State lawmakers are now reviewing Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s $60.7 billion state spending proposal, which they must finalize and adopt before the new fiscal year begins July 1. Her plan includes an additional $71 million to cover the increased cost of administering the program. While the federal government previously split these costs evenly with states, the new law puts 75% of these expenses on states. The state plans to allot $61 million from this increase to counties directly to help fund the additional administrative costs that are expected to result from all the changes, according to budget documents, while the remaining $10 million would support new administrative responsibilities in Trenton. Without support from Trenton, “this shift would place significant financial pressure on counties and could drive property taxes or reduce service capacity,” Cha told lawmakers. County offices “are the front door for nutrition and health benefits,” he said. Cha also warned lawmakers about another pending change to SNAP that could cost New Jersey an additional $89 million to $239 million annually, starting in 2028. That’s when the federal government plans to penalize states that have a high error rate, a measurement of under- and over-payments. In a letter to members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation, Cha said the error rate is an “inappropriate and flawed metric” that the federal government is using to shift cost to certain states. He urged federal lawmakers to repeal this element of the law or delay its implementation for at least two years. Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger (R-Monmouth) pressed Cha on what his department was doing to reduce the error rate and protect federal funding. The law calls for states with error rates above 6% to eventually pay 5% to 15% of the cost of providing benefits to their residents. New Jersey’s error rate hovered between 2% and 8% over the past two decades, according to Cha’s letter, but spiked to 35% in 2023 when the federal government changed how it was calculating the figure. “The reality is, it is what it is, and we have to deal with it,” Scharfenberger said at last week’s budget hearing. Cha and his team said they are working closely with the county offices that process SNAP claims to reduce these error rates, holding regular meetings with staff and implementing additional quality control protocols. He stressed that errors do not mean there is fraud or other abuse. “We are doing a lot to decrease those payment error rates. That is a constant,” Cha said, “regardless of how it’s being used, or how we disagree with how it might be described or interpreted or applied to us.” He added, “We can always do better, let me make that clear.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of New Jersey Monitor
	IMEG acquires two Ohio-based companies IMEG expands performance & energy platform with addition of AGM Energy Services and Palmer Conservation Consulting.
	Mississippi River groups tell feds to act on nitrate contamination Tyler Frye, of Casco, Wisconsin, fills a water glass in this 2024 photo. Frye and his wife discovered years ago that their well was contaminated with high levels of nitrates and chose to install a reverse osmosis system to make the water safe to drink. (Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)Mississippi River conservation groups are among a broad coalition urging the federal government to take action against nitrate contamination in drinking water, which they say has reached “crisis levels” and is a public health emergency. Nitrate, which forms when nitrogen-rich sources combine with oxygen, has long been found in the country’s surface waters and groundwater, where it can end up in people’s drinking water. Consuming water with elevated levels of nitrate is linked to birth defects, thyroid problems and some cancers. Agricultural fertilizer and manure are the most common sources of nitrogen to groundwater, with septic systems and lawn fertilizers also contributing. An April analysis from the Environmental Working Group found that about 18% of the U.S. population from 2021 to 2023 used drinking water from community systems with 3 milligrams per liter (mg/L) or more of nitrate, the threshold at which the Environmental Protection Agency says indicates contamination. Advocates say nitrate contamination has struggled to capture public attention but is costly and hazardous to those it affects. The May 5 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services and the EPA was signed by 80-plus groups, about a third of which are located in or focused on the Mississippi River basin. It calls on the agencies to “immediately identify and eliminate sources of nitrate pollution in drinking water and provide funds to communities to reduce nitrate to safe levels.” The letter cites a recent report from the Iowa Environmental Council and the Harkin Institute at Drake University in Des Moines that found high nitrate levels in drinking water, as well as the presence of pesticides and forever chemicals, are linked to rising cancer rates in Iowa. Intensive farming across the state, including corn, soy and hogs, is the dominant source of nitrate pollution, the report notes. “We understand these are long-term problems,” said Tyler Lobdell, senior attorney at Food & Water Watch, which spearheaded the letter. “The longer we wait to address root causes, the more difficult, and more expensive [it is], and the more harm is caused in the long run.” The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to a request for comment on the letter. A spokesperson for the EPA said it is beginning the next round of review of national drinking water regulations, which was last published in 2024. Too much nitrogen taints drinking water, hurts river ecosystem Nitrate contamination is a widespread problem across the country, especially in the Corn Belt, but actions to address it have been slow-going. Groups in multiple states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa, have previously petitioned the EPA to take emergency action on nitrate problems in specific regions. Lobdell said the agency has either ignored or given an insufficient response to those petitions, dating back several years and multiple presidential administrations. Under former President Joe Biden, the EPA restarted an assessment — which had been suspended during the first Trump administration — of the impacts of nitrate on human health. Environmental advocates had hoped that it could lead to an adjustment of the national standard for nitrate in drinking water, which currently sits at 10 mg/L, because some research shows impacts to human health below that level. Little progress has been made on the assessment. Beyond human health impacts, too much nitrogen in surface water can drive excessive algae growth, causing harm to fish and other aquatic life. It’s one culprit, in addition to phosphorus, in the creation of the Gulf of Mexico’s “dead zone,” an area of low oxygen that spans thousands of square miles from the mouth of the Mississippi River. Kelly McGinnis, executive director of the environmental advocacy organization One Mississippi, a signatory on the letter, said humans aren’t separate from the environment and that addressing nitrate contamination would have positive impacts on both. She said she hopes the letter catches the attention of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has pledged to “Make America Healthy Again” and has shown interest in reducing toxins in people’s diets. “We felt the urgency right now to take advantage of the new research [from Iowa] to say, ‘Hey, this is something you guys need to be addressing,'” McGinnis said. The spokesperson for the EPA said the agency is “committed to Making America Healthy Again by taking real, tangible steps to evaluate risks of nitrates in drinking water while following the law and gold standard science.” This story is a product of the Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk, an independent reporting network based at the University of Missouri in partnership with Report for America, with major funding from the Walton Family Foundation. Signatories Mississippi River Basin-state signatories are shown in bold. Alabama: Black Warrior Riverkeeper Illinois: Climate Action Evanston; Committee on the Middle Fork Vermilion River; Illinois Stewardship Alliance; League of Women Voters of Illinois Indiana: Wabash Riverkeeper Network Iowa: Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement; Iowa Environmental Council; LWV of Iowa; UNI’s Center for Energy & Environmental Education Kentucky: Kentucky Waterways Alliance Minnesota: League of Women Voters of Minnesota (LWVMN); Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy Mississippi: MS Communities United for Prosperity (MCUP) New York: Chuatuauqa-Conewango Consortium, Inc. Ohio: Ohio Environmental Council Pennsylvania: Three Rivers Waterkeeper Tennessee: Harpeth Conservancy Texas: Bayou City Waterkeeper Wisconsin: League of Women Voters of WI; Midwest Environmental Advocates; Milwaukee Riverkeeper Regional/Multi-State Focus: Environmental Law & Policy Center (active in IL, IA, MN, and WI); Izaak Walton League of America; League of Women Voters Upper Mississippi River Region ILO; Mississippi River Collaborative; Ohio River Foundation; One Mississippi; Sierra Club; Waterkeeper Alliance SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Tennessee Lookout
	Looming federal cuts prompt concerns about food aid in Arkansas Valencia White, left, speaks to reporters at an Arkansas Community Organizations rally against the state cutting income taxes for high earners while nutrition assistance faces federal cuts on April 23, 2026. (Photo by Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate)Fayetteville resident Jen Cole tries her best to use her monthly $20 in nutrition assistance on what she needs most, but it still doesn’t go very far. “This month, I was like, ‘Okay, I need olive oil for healthy cooking, and I need smoked paprika, and that’s going to take up most of my food stamps,’” Cole said. “So I got that and a couple of avocados and an onion, and that was it.” Cole gets more for her money at a local farmers market than at a grocery store, and she also uses Meals on Wheels and the food pantry where she volunteers. She said the pantry has seen a surge of families seeking assistance in recent months. Jen Cole (Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate) Demand for help putting food on the table in the nation’s most food-insecure state has increased while grocery prices have also increased, and federal restrictions and cuts to nutrition aid are months from taking effect. The federal tax and spending cuts measure known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 requires states to share some of the administrative cost of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for the first time in the food assistance program’s 87-year history. For Arkansas, that will eventually amount to $24 million more a year. The additional cost and a $6.7 billion state budget lawmakers approved that didn’t address that need has sparked concerns about how the state will cover the funding gap in a state where roughly one in 10 households are on SNAP. More than 220,000 Arkansans in about 118,000 households receive SNAP benefits as of April 26, Department of Human Services spokesperson Gavin Lesnick said. Both figures have dropped since January, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture data. Under the budget Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed last month, DHS’ $1.86 billion budget will remain mostly flat compared to the current fiscal year. When asked how the agency will absorb higher administrative costs, Lesnick said officials are “continuing discussions on this funding and also exploring efficiencies within the Division of County Operations,” which administers SNAP. Proposed SNAP asset limit increase hits roadblock as DHS takes action on 2023 law The lack of clarity from the state about its plan to absorb the cost is concerning, especially with little to no change to the agency budget, said Sylvia Blain, CEO of the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance. “We’ve been waiting for [a plan], and so I believe it needs to be a line item to make sure that it’s covered,” she said. Republican Sen. Jonathan Dismang of Searcy, co-chairman of the Joint Budget Committee, said he has been “assured repeatedly by the administration and by DHS that this is something they can absorb inside their budget.” In 2023 and 2025, Dismang sponsored legislation to raise SNAP’s asset limit in order to help Arkansans build enough wealth to no longer need food assistance. Neither bill passed after other Republicans said the policy promoted government dependency. The current state budget set aside $100 million for DHS that has sat untouched, and the same amount will be set aside in the next fiscal year that begins July 1, Dismang and Lesnick both said. Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signs the fourth income tax cut since 2023 into law on May 6, 2026. At left are House Speaker Brian Evans, R-Cabot, and Joint Budget Committee co-chair Sen. Jonathan Dismang, R-Searcy. (Photo by Ainsley Platt/Arkansas Advocate) Blain and other advocates for nutrition assistance have expressed concern about how the state can handle additional costs when it’s collecting less revenue as a result of phasing out the income tax. The Legislature approved the state’s fourth tax cut since 2023 in a special session last week. Democrats and community advocates told Republican lawmakers that the SNAP funding shortfall was one reason not to cut taxes, especially when the lower and middle classes see little savings. Valencia White, who was among activists with Arkansas Community Organizations rallying outside the Capitol against the cuts on April 23, said she used to forgo eating so her children would have enough food. “When they were younger, I would cry because my money didn’t go as far as it should have, and I had to feed my children,” White told reporters. More upcoming SNAP changes The One Big Beautiful Bill Act incentivizes states to keep their rates of overpaying or underpaying SNAP benefits below 6% in order for the federal government to continue to pay 100% of the cost of assistance. States with error rates above 6% will pay at least 5% of SNAP benefit costs starting Oct. 1, 2027. Arkansas’ error rate has consistently been above that threshold. It was 7.43% as of April 13, an increase from December. Lesnick said DHS “will continue to look for new ways” to reduce the error rate below 6%. Those efforts include monthly staff training, creating a quality assurance team, enhancing fraud detection capacity with the help of a USDA grant “and investing in AI tools within the eligibility system to reduce human data errors and reduce repetitive tasks, freeing up caseworker resources to detect errors,” Lesnick said. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US After Sanders signed the tax cuts into law Wednesday, House Speaker Brian Evans said the Legislature is keeping a close eye on changes to SNAP costs. “Depending upon how that goes, obviously, that could become a top priority for us [in 2027],” the Cabot Republican said. Arkansas already had work requirements for SNAP recipients before the latest mandates. As of November, adult SNAP recipients younger than 64 and without dependents younger than 14 must work if they are capable of working. Research shows that SNAP work requirements reduce food assistance enrollment instead of boosting employment rates. Additionally, Arkansas is one of several states that will ban the use of SNAP funds to purchase soda, candy, juices with less than 50% natural juice and other highly processed foods as of July 1. Sanders said last year that taxpayers should not be “subsidizing poor health.” A dozen states win approval to restrict soda, candy for SNAP recipients This upcoming change prompted concerns from Dismang that local retailers in rural areas could stop serving SNAP recipients if the state doesn’t provide clear guidance on how to implement the new rules. On Wednesday, the Joint Budget Committee reviewed a $1.2 million contract with Sifter Solutions, a Chicago-based consultant that provides regularly updated lists of restricted products to retailers in states with SNAP junk food bans. People facing food insecurity usually don’t seek out unhealthy foods with their limited benefits, Cole and Wannalitha Anderson both said. They volunteer at the food pantry at Fayetteville’s St. James Baptist Church, which increased distribution from once to twice a week last year to meet demand. “Most people that I see that use SNAP are using it to get nutritious stuff, but trying to tell someone what they can and can’t eat [is] not going to fix anything,” Anderson said. The charitable food network has been more difficult to sustain since the federal government ended several grants in 2025, including one that funded Anderson’s job at AmeriCorps focused on addressing food insecurity. The effects of the war in Iran, tariffs and other decisions from Washington D.C. caused the pantry to run low on food on April 30, which Anderson said is unusual. “Sometimes it’s feast and sometimes it’s famine,” Anderson said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Arkansas Advocate
	WV among states where hospitals charge commercial insurance plans the most, study says West Virginia hospitals have some of the highest prices in the country for commercial insurance, a new study finds. (Jack Yen Joy Photography/Getty Images)West Virginia hospitals charge commercial insurance prices that are among the highest in the United States, according to a report released Thursday. According to the report, West Virginia hospitals charged on average prices that are 337% of the rate that Medicare charges for the same services. Only two states — Florida and South Carolina — have higher prices. The report, from healthcare consumer advocacy organization Families USA, analyzed financial data and commercial insurance prices for more than 2,800 hospitals in 49 states and Washington D.C. from 2018 to 2023 and came up with each state’s weighted average commercial price. “This report adds to decades of literature that detail how big hospital chains have become big business in America,” Families USA director Anthony Wright told reporters during a virtual briefing Wednesday. “The health systems incentives for corporate health systems are to get bigger, not to get better. As a result, healthcare consumers, primarily the more than 182 million with commercial coverage, are paying the price — around three times what Medicare pays for the same set of services.” Ellen Allen, executive director of West Virginians for Affordable Health Care, said that consolidation — particularly by West Virginia’s two largest healthcare systems — contributes to the high prices. “We’ve had this great consolidation over the last decade, primarily by WVU Health Systems and Vandalia Health, and that has driven up costs because there’s fewer choices,” Allen said during the briefing. “And it’s made rural healthcare much more expensive and inaccessible.” The report says West Virginia hospitals had an average annual net income of more than $14.1 million per hospital for 2018 through 2023. West Virginia is one of the most consolidated states when it comes to healthcare systems, Alicia Camaliche, senior policy analyst for Families USA and one of the authors of the study, told reporters. Five of the largest health care systems in the state control 89% of hospital care delivered, and three of those systems control 84% of care delivered, she said. “That speaks massively to the market power these big systems have to set prices and directly correlates to having some of the highest prices in the country,” she said. Healthcare finances are ‘complicated’ Jim Kaufman, executive director of the West Virginia Hospital Association, said healthcare finances are complicated. In the average West Virginia hospital, three out of four patients are covered by a government health care program — West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency, Medicaid, or Medicare — which pay providers less than the cost of care. Medicare, the program that’s used to compare the cost of services, pays less in West Virginia than in other states because the program is based on cost of living, Kaufman said. That does not include the cost of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. According to the study, authors took into account Medicare’s local wage indexes. Kaufman also pointed to a study from Kaiser Family Foundation that found that West Virginia was among the 10 states with the lowest hospital expenses per day, “which shows we’re actually doing a great job of holding down costs,” he said. “Now the challenge is… we lead the nation in obesity rates, tobacco rates, diabetes,” Kaufman said.” I mean, we have lots of healthcare issues, and we have an older population, so we actually see utilization of healthcare services higher than other states that are healthier.” One of hospitals’ challenges is filling vacancies — the state’s hospital systems currently have more than 4,000 openings for nursing, respiratory imaging and laboratory jobs alone, he said. There are more than 125,000 vacant nursing positions nationwide, he said. West Virginia having a higher percentage than average of government payers, which pay less than insurance plans, means hospitals have fewer resources to pay competitive salaries, he said. “So when you think about healthcare costs, yes, to compete and keep that nurse or doctor or respiratory therapist in West Virginia, we need to offer competitive salaries, but that also means healthcare costs are higher,” he said. He compared hospitals’ business model to that of a body shop that has to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week in case of an accident. “We’ve got to pay for things to be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of whether it’s being utilized, just in case,” he said. “Because if you’re in an accident, at two o’clock in the morning, you want that emergency room there. But you only get paid when it’s getting used. So there’s a high amount of standby cost built in.” Hospitals do lots of community benefit programs like diabetes education, farmers markets, pharmacy programs and other efforts to help people get healthier and be less dependent on hospital services, he said. The state’s largest healthcare systems are Vandalia Health — with 17 hospitals across the state, and West Virginia University Health System, with 25 hospitals across West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland. Marshall Health — also among the state’s largest health care systems — has 130 clinic locations across West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. A spokesman for Vandalia Health said in an email that 81% of payors are governmental — Medicare, Medicaid, PEIA etc. “In West Virginia, commercial payors must cover the low reimbursement rates of governmental insurance. Therefore, the cost shift may be higher compared to other states,” the hospital system said. Commercial insurance prices are negotiated between healthcare systems and insurance companies. Kaufman said the state’s largest insurer — Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield — controls 80% of the market for commercial insurance in West Virginia. “So if you think about it, who’s got more market leverage, the insurance company or one of the three healthcare systems?” Kaufman said. “Because none of those health care systems can operate without working with Highmark. And I think that’s something the report leaves out. When you really look at consolidation, the health insurance market has a lot of market leverage, much more than any hospital would ever have.” Organization pushes for reforms The report comes more than a week after Congress’s Ways and Means Committee questioned hospital executives from for-profit and non-profit healthcare systems about the rising costs of healthcare. “Simply put, hospitals are charging an insane amount for care,” Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, R-Missouri, said in his opening statements. “Hospital prices have skyrocketed 300 percent in just over two decades — more than any other sector of our economy. “Hospital consolidation and mergers, that lead to ever-growing market power, are fueling the borderline extortionary prices hospitals charge patients,” he said. Families USA called on Congress to act to lower healthcare costs by implementing “bipartisan reforms” like enacting site-neutral payments — which would require the same rate for medical services regardless of where they’re performed, mandating full transparency, banning anti-competitive practices, strengthening oversight of nonprofit hospitals and limiting hospital prices or hospital price growth. “Ultimately, these policy reforms would directly curb excessive prices, boost competition and deliver meaningful cost relief for American families,” the organization wrote. “Failing to advance hospital pricing reforms would only continue to force healthcare consumers to bear the brunt of our overcharge for care and generate financial windfalls at consumers’ expense.” Changes coming to healthcare The One Big Beautiful Bill Act will change much of the landscape for hospitals in West Virginia and throughout the country. Beginning in January, states are required to implement work requirements for people who are on Medicaid as a part of the expansion population — those who qualify for the program based on their income as a provision of the Affordable Care Act. State health officials have said they expect Medicaid enrollment to decline when work requirements are in place. One study estimates between 40,000 and 75,000 West Virginians will lose their Medicaid coverage in 2028 under the work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks. “We’re very concerned about how those requirements in the Big, Beautiful Bill will change Medicaid enrollment and more individuals will lose their healthcare coverage, which means higher uncompensated care for the hospitals,” Kaufman said. “How much more, we don’t know.” The loss of the premium healthcare tax credits that helped people pay for insurance plans on the federal government’s Health Care Marketplace will also result in more uncompensated care for hospitals, he said. At least nearly 10,000 fewer West Virginians signed up for the health care plans this year. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act will also cut the Medicaid directed care program resulting in West Virginia hospitals losing $1 billion each year when the bill is fully implemented, he said. Allen, the director of West Virginians for Affordable Health Care, said changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill are a “perfect storm” to add more stress to the state’s healthcare system and West Virginians across the board. “Whether or not you’re on unemployment based healthcare, we’re going to see costs rise there, whether or not you’re on (a plan through) the (Affordable Care Act), Medicaid, I just think we’re going to see uninsured rates continue to rise,” Allen said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of West Virginia Watch
	Marguerite This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.As a child, you learned that it's possible for a kingdom to be lost for want of a nail. Long ago near Rock Island, it…
	Mamma Mai's Bar & Grill to open on Wednesday Mamma Mia Bar & Grill, formerly Boone Docks Restaurant, in Joy, Illinois, to open on Wednesday, May 13.
	Iowa hospital accused of harvesting patient’s organs without Nebraska family’s authorization CHI Health-Missouri Valley, a western Iowa hospital. (Photo via Google Earth)An Iowa hospital is facing a lawsuit for allegedly harvesting the organs of a deceased patient without first consulting with the patient’s next of kin. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, seeks damages from Alegent Health-Community Memorial Hospital of Missouri Valley, which also does business as CHI Health-Missouri Valley. The plaintiffs in the case, Christina Gubbels of McLean, Nebraska, and Daun Stoddard of Norfolk, Nebraska, are the biological daughters of the late Martin Gillespie of Missouri Valley. The lawsuit claims that in the early hours of April 1, 2026, Gillespie arrived by ambulance at CHI Health-Missouri Valley and was pronounced dead. Gillespie had never authorized “anatomical gifts of his body in any manner,” the lawsuit alleges. According to the plaintiffs, although the hospital had access to information showing Gillespie had biological children, the staff determined his aunt, Karen Holst, was the next of kin who had legal authorization to make any organ-donation decisions on his behalf. At 4:50 a.m. that day, the lawsuit alleges, the hospital made a “routine referral” to the Iowa Donor Network, and within hours the network had collected Gillespie’s organs, skin tissue and eyes. Under Iowa law, Gillespie’s daughters had priority over his aunt in determining whether his organs were subject to donation, the lawsuit alleges. The lawsuit seeks more than $75,000 in damages for alleged malpractice, fraud, and negligent infliction of emotional distress. CHI Health-Missouri Valley officials did not respond Thursday when contacted for comment. Iowa Capital Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kathie Obradovich for questions: info@iowacapitaldispatch.com. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Nebraska Examiner
	RI attorney general makes final push to boost enforcement powers against pharmaceutical middlemen Prescription drug costs and pharmacy benefit managers are central concerns in several health care bills backed by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha this legislative session. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current)With his term ending in early January 2027, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha has less than eight months in the Ocean State’s highest lawkeeping post. But there’s less than two months in Rhode Island’s lawmaking session, and the AG still has some legislation he’d like to see cross the finish line — namely a quartet of bills aimed at improving healthcare delivery, access and pricing for Rhode Islanders. One bill seeks to slash prescription drug prices via pool purchasing, another would expedite a receivership process for struggling hospitals via Superior Court intervention, and the other two bills extend Neronha’s ongoing battle against pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs as they’re known, by bolstering his office’s enforcement powers against the pharmaceutical middlemen. “Last year, working with the General Assembly, we made significant strides by increasing primary care reimbursements and reducing burdensome and unnecessary prior authorization requirements,” Neronha said in a May 7 statement. “Yet our problems persist.” Neronha helped to steer the state’s two safety net hospitals toward new ownership, has consistently advocated for higher Medicaid reimbursement rates for primary care physicians, and has used his powers to more tightly regulate healthcare mergers in the state. He has also filed lawsuits against PBMs, like Express Scripts and CVS Caremark, as well as their purchasing organizations The latest tranche of bills he’s promoting continue to unspool these threads, Neronha said in his statement, noting that “Reimbursement rates are still too low” and that “Rhode Islanders are paying far too much for essential, life-saving medications.” He added that his office will soon debut additional “proposals to structurally reorganize and reform the state’s health care agencies, including the creation of a new agency which will prioritize data-driven change.” The four pieces of legislation have duplicates in both chambers of the state legislature, and all have been heard and held for further study (as is procedural standard) in their respective House committees. The Senate bills were still awaiting hearings as of Friday, May 8. Here are the bills Neronha wants to see pass before this year’s legislative session ends in June. Amending deceptive trade practices law H8360 and S3260 Sponsors: Rep. Mia Ackerman and Sen. Robert Britto The legislation would amend Rhode Island’s current law on deceptive trade to include certain practices performed by PBMs by defining them as unfair or deceptive. Examples of these suboptimal practices include redirecting patients toward PBM-chosen pharmacies, shackling pharmacies to do business with certain wholesalers, manipulating early refill limits, making the maximum allowable costs for drugs untenable, and restricting some uses of prescription data. The legislation would also ban spread pricing, which is when PBMs pocket the difference between what a health insurer pays for a drug and what the PBM charges a pharmacy. PBM Prime Therapeutics submitted testimony during the House bill’s hearing on April 14 that denied the core tenets behind the legislation. “Spread pricing, network management, and tools to support patient medication adherence and monitor waste and abuse are all standard industry practices put in place to provide options for plan sponsors and support for members,” Prime’s Michelle Crimmins, a government affairs liaison, wrote in her letter to the House Committee on Corporations. Sam Hallemeier, senior director of government affairs for the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, wrote in his testimony, “Many small and mid-sized employers select spread pricing because it gives them predictable, stable drug costs without big month-to-month swings.” “The ‘spread’ is simply the difference between what the PBM pays the pharmacy and what the employer pays the PBM,” Hallemeier wrote. “That difference can be either negative or positive – it transfers all the risk onto the PBM.” Matt Tocco, pharmacy manager at Atwood Pharmacy in Johnston, is pictured on Feb. 13, 2026. Atwood Pharmacy was one of the independent pharmacies which benefited from Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha’s use of a 2025 state law which allowed his office greater control over PBMs’ auditing practices. (Photo by Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) PBM audit regulation H8382 and S3258 Sponsors: Rep. Rebecca Kislak and Sen. Linda Ujifusa The legislation builds on successful legislation from last year that increased the AG’s powers over PBMs. That legislation, also sponsored by Kislak and Ujifusa, was used by Neronha for the first time earlier this year, when he took action against unannounced PBM audits of independent pharmacies. The bill would further narrow how PBMs can use claims of fraud, waste or abuse to perform audits that are exempt from certain state laws. PBMs are already limited in the number of audits they can perform annually, but can perform audits outside those quotas by claiming exceptions. Under the proposed legislation, PBMs would need to write their specific justifications and factual bases for any exempt audits and make the documents available to the Attorney General upon request. Auditors showed up unannounced at 3 independent pharmacies. This RI law was ready for them. Auditors could not rely on a common owner to justify investigating several independent pharmacies at once — an issue that occurred with the audits which spurred Neronha’s earlier investigation — and they would also need to notify the AG in advance of any exceptional audits. The bill would also authorize the AG to bring legal action and impose civil penalties of up to $10,000 each against PBMs that violate the law. When the bill went before the House Committee on Health and Human Services on April 16, a mix of proponents and opponents similar to the deceptive practices bill submitted written testimony, with Hallemeier again decrying the proposal. “In a time when the cost of health care continues to rise, it is more important than ever that fraudulent activity be prevented to keep these costs down,” Hallemeier wrote, citing audits as an essential tool against pharmaceutical fraud. A state-managed drug purchasing pool H8383 and S3257 Sponsors: Rep. Tina Spears and Sen. Lou DiPalma This legislation would forge a state-run prescription drug purchasing pool via the Department of Administration (DOA), and allow municipalities, self-insured private employers and health insurance carriers to join a program that would allow them to take advantage of the state’s drug-purchasing power and realize additional discounts. The Department of Administration, the AG’s office notes, would set the rules for eligibility, enrollment, payment, and participation. It would also allow the department to enter into multistate purchasing agreements to further rebates and price reductions. The legislation would also permit stop-loss coverage, which would prevent self-insured entities from being financially ruined by unpredictably excessive costs. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, as of 2023, there were five multi-state consortia which band their purchasing power together to buy in bulk. Three of these programs are Medicaid-based, while the other two involve state and local governments. Those involved in the Medicaid purchasing pools typically saved between 3 and 5% on drugs. A similar logic of negotiation has animated President Donald Trump’s salvoes against drug pricing. Trump’s May 2025 executive order which laid the groundwork for TrumpRX argued that U.S. purchasing power alone should make pharmaceutical companies comply with his demands. Ben Mingle, CEO of The Centurion Foundation, acknowledged the challenges presented in buying Roger Williams Medical Center and Our Lady of Fatima during a press conference announcing the sale completion on Friday, March 6, 2026. Behind him, left to right, are Gov. Dan McKee, Senate President Valarie Lawson, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi and Attorney General Peter Neronha. (Photo by Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current) A process for hospital receivership H8364 and S3244 Sponsors: Rep. Susan Donovan and Sen. Melissa Murray With a petition from the AG or state health department, this legislation would authorize the Superior Court to take up and appoint a receiver over a hospital for mismanagement, financial distress, insolvency, illegal or fraudulent conduct, risk of losing assets, or threats to patients’ health and safety, to name a few. The court could also liquidate hospital assets and business operations in some circumstances, and the receiver, with court supervision, could take over operations, preserve assets, begin litigation, or sell or dispose of property. Neronha’s proposal likely derives from his experience and involvement in the multiyear saga to find new owners for Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence and Our Lady of Fatima Hospital in North Providence, two safety-net hospitals formerly owned by Prospect Medical Holdings. After federal bankruptcy proceedings held thousands of miles away in Texas, the Centurion Foundation ultimately closed the deal in March 2026 with a little help — about $18 million worth — from the state to help close the deal. The price of saving Roger Williams and Fatima hospitals? $408M over 30 years While the proposal is meant to reduce the likelihood of such a debacle in the future, several groups had concerns about the legislation when it went before the House Committee on Health and Human Services on April 9. Lisa Tomasso, vice president of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, wrote that, under the legislation, “a hospital could be placed into receivership and subject to asset liquidation based on broadly defined and subjective standards.” “Hospitals in Rhode Island are operating under sustained financial pressure driven by reimbursement shortfalls, workforce constraints, and rising costs,” Tomasso wrote in her testimony. “Creating a mechanism that allows for court-directed takeover and liquidation in response to these conditions does not solve underlying challenges; it amplifies instability and uncertainty across the entire healthcare system.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Courtesy of Rhode Island Current
	As ranks of uninsured grow, charity care can be hard to come by at many hospitals An investigation of hospital data and charity care programs shows most Minnesota hospitals provide little financial aid to patients and often make assistance difficult to get.
	Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi transferred to a Tehran hospital, her foundation says Nobel Peace laureate and activist Narges Mohammadi has been transferred to a Tehran hospital more than a week after collapsing in prison, her foundation said Sunday.
	Bettendorf street patching begins May 12 It's an Our Quad Cities News traffic alert. According to a release from the City of Bettendorf, work will begin Tuesday, May 12 on State St. from 17th St. to 23rd St. as crews make improvements to the roadway and sidewalks. Lane closures will move daily on State St. The lane closures will last for [...]
	Remains of US soldier who went missing in Morocco have been recovered The remains of a U.S. soldier who went missing during military drills in Morocco were recovered in the Atlantic Ocean, the army said. Military teams are searching for a second missing soldier.
Sunday, May 10th, 2026
	Your Medicare Roadmap: What to Know Before You Turn 65 (Feature Impact) Sixty-five is more than a number. It's a milestone. A moment to reflect on where you've been and look forward with confidence to what comes next. For millions of Americans, turning 65 also means unlocking one of the most valuable benefits you've earned: Medicare. The best is still ahead, and it starts with knowing your options. The official source for Medicare information, Medicare.gov, is here to help with clear, trusted information. The path to Medicare is not the same for everyone. Some people get Medicare automatically and others have to sign up. It depends on whether you are already getting Social Security. Either way, you'll want to choose how you get your Medicare coverage. Get information for your path at Medicare.gov, where you can find out when and how to enroll and explore your coverage options. Understanding Your Medicare Coverage Options When you first sign up for Medicare, you choose how to get your coverage. There are two main options: Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Original Medicare is health coverage provided directly by the federal government. It has two parts: Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and home health care. Most people pay no premium for Part A. Part B (Medical Insurance) covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services (like screenings, vaccines and annual wellness visits) and durable medical equipment like wheelchairs and walkers. The standard Part B premium is $202.90 per month and is typically deducted from your Social Security check. With Original Medicare, you can visit any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare. You can also add optional coverage to help manage costs: Medigap (Supplemental Insurance) helps pay your share of Medicare costs. Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) helps pay for medications. Medicare Advantage is an alternative to Original Medicare that provides Part A and Part B and is offered by private insurers approved by Medicare. You still pay the Part B premium. Some plans charge an additional premium - though many carry a $0 plan premium and may even help cover part of your Part B cost. Most plans include in Part D drug coverage along with extra benefits like dental, vision and hearing. Keep in mind most plans require you to use doctors within the plan's network. 5 Steps to Enroll with Confidence Use official sources. Go to Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE for step-by-step, personalized guidance on coverage and enrollment. Start early. You don't have to wait until your birthday. Explore your options now so you're ready when your enrollment window opens. Know your enrollment path. Your path depends on your circumstances - some people are automatically enrolled and some are not. There are unique steps for people who are still working. Avoid late enrollment penalties. Missing your enrollment window can result in a permanent premium penalty for both Part B and Part D. Signing up on time protects your wallet for years to come. Compare plans and save. At Medicare.gov, you can compare plan costs side-by-side, based on the specific drugs you take. A quick comparison could save you money each year. You can also confirm your current doctors are in-network before you choose a plan. Turning 65 is a milestone worth celebrating and it's the perfect time to focus on what matters most: your health and well-being. That includes eating well, exercising and making sure you have health insurance that fits your needs. There's no one-size-fits-all plan. What's important is finding an option that works for you and your health and financial needs. Start your journey at Medicare.gov - your roadmap to a healthier and confident future. Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
	Dog, occupants safe following Bettendorf fire No injuries were reported following an early-morning fire in Bettendorf. According to a release from the City of Bettendorf, the Bettendorf Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a structure fire in the 3100 block of Sunburst Dr. May 10 3:18 a.m. Crews found smoke coming from the roof and discovered a fire inside [...]

Monday, May 11th, 2026

Sunday, May 10th, 2026