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

Friday, January 23rd, 2026
	Venezuela opens debate on an oil sector overhaul as Trump seeks role for US firms Venezuela's legislature advanced a bill on Thursday to loosen state control over the country's vast oil sector, the first major overhaul since parts of the industry were nationalized in 2007.
Thursday, January 22nd, 2026
	‘He asked me to call 911, so I did’: KWQC reporter summons help as freezing cold hits Quad Cities While waiting outside, Brindley said a man walked up to his car and asked for help.
	Knox County senior services receive funding commitment Officials said the commitment secures almost 25 percent of the total annual local cash match needed to secure more than $600,000 in federal funding.
	Bettendorf School Board removes extension from superintendent contract The Bettendorf superintendent's extension year was removed by school board Thursday night.
	Local hero: Clinton boy named Children’s Miracle Network national champion Sawyer Dawes has chronic kidney disease and is treated at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
	Four Republican gubernatorial candidates lay out priorities during Eldridge forum About a hundred people filled the Regional Innovation Center in Eldridge on Thursday night to hear from Adam Steen, Eddie Andrews, Brad Sherman, and Zach Laye.
	TikTok finalizes deal to form new American entity TikTok has finalized a deal to create a new American entity, avoiding the looming threat of a ban in the United States that has been in discussion for years.
	Quad Cities schools to decide on closures with low temps ahead With frigid temperatures set to hit the Quad Cities on Friday, school districts are preparing for what they will do.
	CNH plans to lay off 209 employees in Burlington The layoffs will take effect between the end of March and the end of May.
	East Moline cattle farm using ear tags that track cow's biometrics The technology is similar to smart watches for humans, allowing the Bohnerts to keep tabs on their herd's health at all times.
	Elevator tech startup shares plans for the KONE Tower Hyprlift, Inc. will use the tower to get its self-propelled elevator system certified.
	Iowa House passes bill to ban eminent domain for carbon capture pipelines DES MOINES, Iowa -- The Iowa House passed a bill banning the use of eminent domain for the construction of carbon capture pipelines. In just a couple weeks, HF 2104 was introduced and cleared through a House subcommittee before House members on Wednesday passed the bill 64 to 28. The bill would prohibit "exercising the [...]
	Iowa man arrested for first-degree murder in case of man missing since 2020 On May 2, 2020, the family of Christian Balke-Thompson, 26, reported him missing to law enforcement. Since that time, Balke-Thompson has not been found, according to a news release from the Iowa Department of Public Safety. On Thursday, Albert John Wolfe, 33, of Lanesboro, Iowa, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder for the death of Balke-Thompson. The [...]
	What EV drivers should know as temperatures drop As temperatures drop across the region, electric vehicle owners face a seasonal reality: cold weather can significantly reduce battery performance and driving range.
	Farmers prepare livestock for cold weather East to West Farm in Columbus Junction takes extra precautions as below-zero temperatures are expected this weekend.
	Iowa woman sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison for embezzling from employer According to court documents, the embezzlement began in June of 2021, about eight months after she began working for a new company. She has multiple past convictions for financial crimes.
	The Heart of the Story: A need for speed Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. Retirement usually means slowing down, but not for [...]
	Project NOW, Moline's new overnight shelter helps 40 people on first night The temporary shelter opened in Moline on Jan. 21 and is capable of sleeping up to 60 people. To help, here are the donation items Project NOW is asking for.
	63 straight hours coming with below 0° wind chills in the Quad Cities It's a long stretch of VERY cold weather in the Quad Cities! We're looking at more than 2 and a half straight days with below 0° wind chills! The worst of it looks to be Friday morning when wind chills dip to -35° in the Quad Cities. The NWS, not surprisingly, has issued an Extreme [...]
	How to protect your home against the incoming sub-zero temperatures The below-freezing temperatures on their way to the QCA this weekend mean homes are at risk of major damages if you're not prepared. Whether it's a furnace failure or burst pipe, homeowners have a lot to look out for while they try to stay warm this weekend. Our Quad Cities News spoke with Petersen Plumbing [...]
	Worst case scenario is -40° in Quad Cities Friday morning We're locked in with dangerously cold wind chills Friday morning...and the worst case scenario puts us at -40° in the morning! "Best" case scenario still places us at -25° early Friday morning. Most likely? That gives us a wind chill of -32° Friday morning. There's limited relief coming next week, here's the 7-day forecast:
	Republican-led House blocks effort to limit President Trump's war powers in Venezuela Two Republicans joined Democrats to vote for the war powers resolution, but the motion failed in a 215-215 vote.
	45 out of 50 states slammed with winter weather alerts! It doesn't happen often, but 45 out of the 50 states have at least one county included in some form of a winter weather alert from the NWS right now! Some of the products in effect right now include Extreme Cold Warnings, Cold Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Warnings to name a few! 2 factors [...]
	Muscatine Community College opens expanded technology center Muscatine Community College cut the ribbon on an expanded technology center, adding new lab and classroom space for welding and advanced manufacturing.
	Closings across the QCA Ahead of the upcoming extreme winter weather, many schools, business and organizations in our area are announcing closings and other changes. To view current listings, click here.
	Dirt dumped at Vibrant Arena ahead of this weekend's bull riding event The Professional Championship Bull Riders Tour takes place this Saturday. Crews had to dump the dirt a day early due to bitterly cold temperatures in the forecast.
	Night In A Car event returns to Aledo to raise housing funds The Feb. 6 event is raising money and awareness for the unhoused in Mercer County. It's a reality the nonprofit MCBT says is impacting more people locally.
	What's Brewing? \| Antifreeze Party mixes cold weather with cocktails, contests Grab your warmest layers! The annual Antifreeze Party is returning to LeClaire on Jan. 24 with live music, hot cocktails, ice luges, a mac & cheese bar and more.
	Farmers preparing their animals for frigid temperatures Barns will be closed-in to help keep the warmth inside, but farmers say many cows actually find it easier to deal with extreme cold than extreme heat.
	Historic donation places Towhead Island under community stewardship The donation is among the most significant conservation-focused philanthropic gestures in the Muscatine region’s history. Here's what will happen to Towhead Island.
	Supporting and empowering mothers in the QCA with Strength in MotherS From fertility to postpartum and beyond, mothers across the QCA have a resource to feel supported and empowered through every stage of motherhood. Lexi Keppy and Taylor Butler joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the work of Strength in MotherS. For more information, click here.
	Project NOW, Moline's new overnight shelter helps 40 people on first night The temporary shelter opened in Moline on Jan. 21 and is capable of sleeping up to 60 people. To help, here are the donation items Project NOW is asking for.
	Traffic flow resumes on I-74 Bridge Traffic is moving again on the I-74 Bridge.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted in Scott, Rock Island counties Dominik Hladik-Childress, 27, is wanted in Scott and Rock Island counties.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted for delivery of controlled substance Deon Babers, 34, is wanted by Moline police for delivery of a controlled substance.
	Crime Stoppers: Moline hotel robbed at gunpoint, police seek information Police are investigating after an armed robbery Sunday at a Moline hotel.
	Photography exhibit focuses antique lens on modern Navajo life at Dubuque Museum of Art The Dubuque Museum of Art is hosting an event showcasing the works of Diné (Navajo) artist, Will Wilson, in conversation with 20th century photographer Edward Sheriff Curtis (1868-1952).
	What's ahead at Nahant Marsh? As the education center in Davenport just celebrated its 25th year, there are always things to do and learn at Nahant Marsh! Executive director Brian Ritter joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about what's ahead at Nahant Marsh. For more information, click here.
	Slow moving traffic on I-74 bridge into Illinois A traffic alert for drivers crossing the I-74 Bridge.
	House approves spending bills despite many Democrats' objections to ICE funds The House has approved the final set of spending bills to avoid a government shutdown, despite objections from Democrats to the funding levels set for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
	Moline woman sentenced to prison on wire fraud, identity theft charges A Moline woman will spend over a decade behind bars for wire fraud and identity theft charges.
	UnityPoint offers free heart health screenings in February UnityPoint Health said it will offer free heart health screenings throughout February as heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States.
	Former Iowa superintendent pleads guilty to falsely claiming US citizenship The former superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district pleaded guilty Thursday, and admitted to falsely claiming to be a U.S. citizen on a federal form and illegally possessing firearms.
	Moline woman sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison for wire fraud, identity theft A Moline woman was sentenced to 139 months in federal prison for wire fraud and identity theft tied to a $551,961 embezzlement scheme.
	Are there thunderstorms on Mars? A planetary scientist explains the red planet’s dry, dusty storms Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Are there thunderstorms on Mars? – Cade, age 7, Houston, Texas Mars is a very dry planet with very little water in its atmosphere and hardly any clouds, so you might not expect it to have storms. Yet, there is lightning and thunder on Mars – although not with rain, nor with the same gusto as weather on Earth. More than 10 years ago, my planetary science colleagues and I found the first evidence for lightning strikes on Mars. In the following decade, other researchers have continued to study what lightning might be like on the red planet. In November 2025, a Mars rover first captured the spectacular sounds of lightning sparking on the Martian surface. Mars dust storms are many times larger and taller than this large terrestrial dust devil photographed in a valley near Las Vegas. Fernando Saca, University of Michigan Lightning on Mars On Earth, lightning is an electric discharge that begins inside big clouds. But because Mars is so dry, it doesn’t have clouds of water – instead, it has clouds of dust. With little water to weigh down dirt on Mars, dust clouds can quickly grow into huge, windy dust storms a few times taller than Earth’s tallest thunderstorms. When smaller dust particles and larger sand particles collide with each other while being whipped around by these storms, they pick up a static charge. Smaller dust particles take on a positive charge, while larger sand particles become negative. The smaller dust particles are lighter and will float higher, while the heavier sand tends to fall closer to the ground. Because oppositely charged particles don’t like to be apart, eventually the energy building between the negative charges higher up in the dust storm and the positive charges closer to the ground becomes too great and is released as electricity – similar to lightning. The air around the electricity rapidly warms up and expands – on Earth, this creates the shock waves that you hear as thunder. Nobody has seen a flash of lightning on Mars, but we suspect it’s more like the glow from a neon light rather than a powerful lightning bolt. The atmosphere near the surface of Mars is about 100 times less dense than on Earth: It’s much more similar to the air inside neon lights. The dust devil shown creates a dark track as it lifts the small and brighter dust particles. Mars Global Surveyor/NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Releasing radio waves Besides shock waves and visible light, lightning also produces other types of waves that the human eye can’t see: X-ray and radio waves. The ground and the top of the atmosphere both conduct electricity well, so they guide these radio waves and cause them to produce signals with specific radio frequencies. It’s kind of like how you might tune into specific radio channels for news or music, but instead of different channels, scientists can identify the radio waves coming from lightning. While nobody has ever seen visible light from Martian lightning, we have heard something similar to the radio waves created by lightning on Earth. That’s the noise that the Perseverance rover reported at the end of 2025. They sound like electric sparks do on Earth. The rover recorded these signals on a microphone as small, sandy tornadoes passed by. A dust devil travels across the Martian landscape. NASA/JPL-Caltech, CC BY Searching for Martian lightning When my colleagues and I went hunting for lightning on Mars a decade ago, we knew the red planet emitted more radio waves during dust storm seasons. So, we searched for modest increases in radio signals from Mars using the large radio dishes that NASA uses to talk to its spacecraft. The dishes function like big ears that listen for faint radio signals from spacecraft far from Earth. We spent from five to eight hours every day listening to Mars for three weeks. Eventually, we found the signals we were looking for: radio bursts with frequencies that matched up with the radio waves that lightning on Earth can create. Artistic impression of a glowing dust devil on Mars. Instead of lightning, electric discharges on Mars dust storms are expected to produce a glow-like discharge like that illustrated in the bottom of this dust devil. Nilton Renno, University of Michigan To find the particular source of these lightning-like signals, we searched for dust storms in pictures taken by spacecraft orbiting Mars. We matched a dust storm nearly 25 miles (40 kilometers) tall to the time when we’d heard the radio signals. Learning about lightning on Mars helps scientists understand whether the planet could have once hosted extraterrestrial life. Lightning may have helped create life on Earth by converting molecules of nitrogen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere into amino acids. Amino acids make up proteins, tens of thousands of which are found in a human body. So, Mars does have storms, but they’re far drier and dustier than the thunderstorms on Earth. Scientists are continually studying lightning on Mars to better understand the geology of the red planet and its potential to host living organisms. Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live. And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Nilton O. Rennó, University of Michigan Read more: The detection of phosphine in Venus’ clouds is a big deal – here’s how we can find out if it’s a sign of life Where does lightning strike? New maps pinpoint 36.8 million yearly ground strike points in unprecedented detail Lightning strikes link weather on Earth and weather in space Nilton O. Rennó receives funding from NASA, JPL, DARPA, and IARPA.
	Conference on new addiction treatment hosted by Vera French A new way to treat addictions will be the subject of a mental health conference this coming spring.
	Moline woman sentenced to federal prison for wire fraud A Moline woman was sentenced to 139 months (over 11.5 years) in federal prison on January 20 for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, according to a news release from the Department of Justice, Southern District of Iowa. Public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing showed that Rianne Len Brinker, 36, embezzled $551,961.66 from [...]
	The 2026 Academy Awards Nominations The biggest story regarding contenders for the 98th Oscars, which were revealed this morning by Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman at 7:30 a.m. CT, is Sinners. And it's quite literally The Biggest Story, as Ryan Coogler's period vampire musical flew away with 16 nods – the most citations for one movie in Academy Awards history.
	Clinton MTA offers free rides due to warming centers Clinton residents who need to visit a warming center in this weekend's extreme cold can ride for free this weekend. On Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24 the MTA will provide free fixed route bus rides to help citizens get to warming stations! Passengers can click here see where the buses are located. For [...]
	200+ workers losing jobs at Burlington manufacturer CNH Industrial is closing in Burlington and 209 workers will lose their jobs.
	3 people involved in Minnesota church protest arrested; judge rejects charges against journalist Protesters on Sunday entered the Cities Church in St. Paul, where a local official with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement serves as a pastor. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest of protester Nekima Levy Armstrong and others on X.
	Controversial new power plant opposed in rural Scott County Hundreds of concerned residents in Scott County oppose approval of a new natural-gas power plant proposed for prime farmland east of Maysville, Iowa.
	Former state representative Luana Stoltenberg to run for Scott County Supervisor Former state representative Luana Stoltenberg, a Republican, will run for the Scott County Board of Supervisors, she announced Wednesday.
	Halpin collecting Valentines for area seniors A local state politician wants to make sure area seniors have something to look forward to on Valentine’s Day. Illinois State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island) is collecting store-bought or handmade cards for residents in long-term care facilities for Valentine’s Day. “A thoughtful handmade or store-bought Valentine’s Day card can brighten a senior’s day,” said [...]
	Burlington Police Chief Adam Schaefer announces retirement after 33 years Burlington Police Chief Adam Schaefer is retiring after 33 years of service. City officials will begin the process of selecting the next chief.
	Scott County corrections officer dies, sheriff’s office says A corrections officer in Scott County has died, according to the sheriff’s office.
	ROWVA searching for bus drivers after shortage disrupts classes ROWVA School District canceled classes last Friday after three of its five bus drivers called in sick, leaving the rural district unable to run routes.
	School closures, delays around the Quad-Cities for Friday, Jan. 23 With the area under an extreme cold warning Friday morning, some Quad-Cities area schools have canceled classes or moved to e-learning.
	Trump sues JPMorgan Chase and CEO Jamie Dimon for $5B over alleged 'debanking' The lawsuit escalates a series of confrontations between the president and the leader of the country's biggest bank.
	Pay It Forward: Morrison resource center providing free blessings to community members God's Will Giving Center is a nonprofit providing essential items to community members at no cost, including furniture, food, clothing and personal items.
	Heart disease deaths declined. And here's how to reduce your risk of the #1 killer An annual report from the American Heart Association shows deaths from heart disease and stroke are down, encouraging news after the rate went up in the early years of the pandemic.
	East Moline assists residents with replacing lead pipes using state-revolving loans The city of East Moline, like many municipalities across the country, is collaborating with homeowners in replacing lead pipes on their properties.
	Feeling the Freeze, Understanding Wind Chill What is the wind chills, also know as "feels like".
	Stay safe in cold weather with tips from MercyOne Genesis Wind chills are expected to reach dangerous levels this weekend, with the possibility of extended power outages. MercyOne Genesis Davenport Emergency Care physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have these tips to help people stay safe and warm in severe winter weather. Overexposure to cold temperatures or cold water, also known as [...]
	A large Syrian camp for ISIS families faces an uncertain fate after a security handover Security at the biggest ISIS detention camp in Syria has collapsed as Syrian Kurds withdraw to face advancing government forces.
	Can leucovorin treat autism? History says, probably not Parents of autistic children are clamoring for a prescription vitamin promoted by federal health officials. But there's little evidence the drug will help.
	Can the prescription drug leucovorin treat autism? History says, probably not Parents of autistic children are clamoring for a prescription vitamin promoted by federal health officials. But there's little evidence the drug will help.
	Bruno Mars and Zach Bryan top the pop charts this week This week, we've finally received an infusion of fresh blood in the form of a brand-new album and a brand-new song — by two different artists, no less! — debuting at No. 1.
	Bettendorf man enters plea for failure to maintain worker's comp insurance A Bettendorf man pled guilty for himself and his company to a charge of failure to maintain worker’s compensation insurance after a man died in a 2024 workplace accident. A news release from the Johnson County Attorney’s Office said James Watts, 83, pled guilty on January 16 to a charge of failure to maintain workers’ [...]
	How to protect your home, car from extreme winter weather Extreme cold doesn’t just make conditions uncomfortable — it increases the risk of costly damage at home and dangerous situations on the road. Preparing ahead of time can help reduce those risks.
	A vaccine trial is called 'unethical' and a 'unique' opportunity. Is it on or off? The U.S. is giving $1.6 million to researchers to study how the hepatitis B vaccine affects newborns in Guinea-Bissau. Local officials say the trial is suspended. U.S. officials say that's inaccurate.
	Tens of millions of Americans brace for winter weather blast A winter storm is expected to wallop a huge chunk of the U.S. from the southwest, into the Plains, the Deep South, and the eastern seaboard. Heavy snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain are forecast.
	Night In A Car event returns to Aledo to raise housing funds The Feb. 6 event is raising money and awareness for the unhoused in Mercer County. It's a reality the nonprofit MCBT says is impacting more people locally.
	5 takeaways from the 2026 Oscar nominations, where 'Sinners' made history Sinners landed a record number of nods, while Avatar: Fire and Ash and Wicked: For Good fell short of their franchise predecessors.
	The Taiwanese president's proposal to hike defense spending faces gridlock at home Opposition parties are slamming the brakes on billions in defense funding as the China escalates military pressure.
	Resident and pets escape Davenport house fire Wednesday evening A Wednesday evening house fire in Davenport displaced two occupants and four pets, with no injuries reported. The cause remains under investigation.
	'The White Hot' asks: If men can go find themselves, why can't women? Quiara Alegría Hudes' novel was inspired by Siddhartha and other classic tales of men seeking enlightenment. It's about a mother in Philadelphia who buys a bus ticket, leaving her daughter behind.
	'Even the Dead' wraps up John Banville's smart, moody mystery series Originally published under a pseudonym, Banville's Quirke mystery series follows a troubled Dublin coroner who dwells in the basement morgue of a hospital.
	King's Harvest Pet Rescue, Jordan's Way hosting live fundraiser Get ready for live hijinx and laughs as King’s Harvest Pet Rescue No Kill Shelter and Jordan’s Way cohost a three hour fundraiser on Saturday. A post on the group’s Facebook page says they’re going live on Saturday, January 24 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. for what they’re calling “the most fun and chaotic [...]
	Seguridad de los quitanieves: prepárese antes de que caigan los primeros copos El Instituto de Equipos Eléctricos para Exteriores (OPEI) ofrece recordatorios de seguridad (NAPSI)—El clima invernal está en camino, y el Instituto de Equipos Eléctricos para Exteriores (OPEI) alienta a los propietarios de hogares y negocios a revisar los consejos de seguridad y preparar sus quitanieves, a menudo denominados sopladores de nieve, y otros equipos de invierno antes del mal tiempo.“El clima es más impredecible ahora que nunca, por lo que debes estar listo antes de que caigan los primeros copos. Revise su quitanieves ahora, antes de que los talleres de reparación estén ocupados”, dice el presidente y director ejecutivo de OPEI, Kris Kiser. OPEI ofrece estos consejos:Lea y siga el manual del propietario. Repase los procedimientos de manejo seguro. Aprenda a operar los controles. Apague completamente el equipo antes de inspeccionarlo.Compre y use combustible y baterías aprobados por el fabricante. Asegúrese de utilizar el combustible y las baterías correctos, según lo recomendado por el fabricante del equipo. Compre combustible y cargue las baterías antes de una tormenta. Para obtener más información, consulte: https://www.opei.org/programs/ethanolwarning/ .La seguridad es lo primero. Limpie el patio de obstrucciones como felpudos, mangueras y juguetes y otros desechos para evitar atropellarlos, dañar la máquina o las personas. Vístase apropiadamente con equipo de seguridad como gafas de seguridad, guantes y calzado que pueda soportar superficies frías y resbaladizas. Tenga lista una herramienta de limpieza o un palo. NUNCA meta las manos dentro de la barrena o el conducto. Use una herramienta de limpieza (o palo) para desatascar la nieve o los escombros de su quitanieves. Siempre apague el quitanieves antes de despejar una obstrucción.Opere su quitanieves solo en condiciones visibles. Nunca opere el quitanieves sin bue-na visibilidad o luz, y tenga mucho cuidado en pendientes y colinas. Apunta tu quitanieves con cuidado. Nunca arroje nieve hacia personas o automóviles. No permita que nadie se pare frente a su quitanieves.Mantenga a las mascotas y a los niños adentro mientras la quitanieves está funcionando. No permita que jueguen en la nieve mientras se arroja por el tobogán. Para obtener más información de seguridad sobre el uso de equipos eléctricos para exteriores y estar preparado para el clima, vaya a WeatherItBetter.com .Word Count: 344
	Hubbell-Waterman Foundation grants more than $2 million to 67 QC non-profit groups The Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, a private foundation founded in 1967 by the late Larned and Mary Hubbell Waterman, will grant more than $2 million to 67 area nonprofits in 2026 to advance its vision of a growing, thriving, inclusive community through investments in innovation and accessibility, according to a news release. “For over 55 years, the [...]
	2 people, 4 pets displaced after fire in Davenport Wednesday evening The fire happened just before 7 p.m. in the 1900 block of Eastern Avenue.
	Laber and Mullins Gallery Opening Quad City Arts invites the public to the Laber and Mullins Gallery Opening Friday, Feb. 6, from 6-8 PM.Local artists Philip Laber and Rachael Mullins tell us more about their artworks.
	Extreme Cold Friday Morning! With the weekend right around the corner, we are preparing for some brutal cold weather to get us there. Temperatures for Thursday night and Friday afternoon are already around 20 to 30 degrees below average and that is not including the wind chills. Wind chill values have the potential to fall to -35 degrees during [...]
	Davenport fire displaces 2 people, 4 pets A fire in Davenport last night displaced two people and four pets, according to a news release from the Davenport Fire Department. Davenport firefighters were called to the 1900 block of Eastern Avenue on January 21 at about 6:50 p.m. for a report of a residential structure fire. The first units arrived within two minutes [...]
	2 residents, 4 pets displaced after house fire Fire crews responded to the 1900 block of Eastern Avenue in Davenport Wednesday night.
	Student success in the AI age: Higher education must rewire its model (BPT) - The workplace of the future will look vastly different from today's workplace. The impact of AI is just beginning to be felt, and experts agree jobs will continue evolving, with many new jobs being created that can't be anticipated today.You don't have to go too far back to see how much digital technology has already changed the employment landscape."If you traveled back to 2000 and introduced yourself as 'social media manager,' 'prompt engineer' or 'brand influencer' you would be met with blank stares," said Elise Awwad, president and CEO, DeVry University. "Looking forward 25 years, the difference will not just be in what jobs we do, but who — or what — is doing them. You will likely encounter jobs, departments or entire sectors that are unrecognizable today."Because the impact of AI is ongoing, unpredictable and unstoppable, it's critical for higher education to respond to rapid technological changes by fully equipping students with tools, knowledge and practical skills they will need not just in today's workplace, but also the future."This is why DeVry is committed to embedding AI into every aspect of our curriculum, programs and student experience," added Shantanu Bose, Ph.D., provost and chief academic officer, DeVry University. "Institutions must respond to this urgent call to action. In that vein, DeVry is executing a focused plan to incorporate AI skill-building across 100% of courses, expanding access to AI specializations and certificates, ensuring graduates can understand and apply AI responsibly in their professions."How to embrace AI for goodStudents today already use AI to a large extent, for a variety of purposes. A recent study found that 90% of students today use AI, with many using it in helpful ways including brainstorming assignments (37%), summarizing information (33%) and receiving feedback (32%) — usually without any guidance or understanding of how to critically approach and best use AI tools.According to recent articles in Forbes, some higher education institutions are starting to understand AI skills are key to student success in the workplace and that AI fluency is crucial for today's students, driving many schools to introduce AI-specific content to their curriculums.DeVry University, a digital-first, career-focused institution specializing in technology- and business-centered education for adult learners, is going even further, embedding AI in 100% of their courses by the end of 2026."We're building an AI-forward education that is grounded in our belief that higher education must fundamentally evolve to remain relevant in today's AI-powered economy," added Bose.DeVry's AI-focused, dual-competency approachToday, AI concepts and applications are already embedded across the university's programs through coursework, discussions, projects and learning experiences that require students to analyze data, support decision-making, evaluate AI-generated insights and apply AI responsibly within their field. These durable, human skills are taught throughout DeVry's curriculum to foster the critical thinking and creativity needed in the workplace of the future alongside AI.Here are the many ways DeVry is further integrating AI into its curriculum and infrastructure to ensure student success in today's digital economy — and into the future.AI Catalyst: DeVry developed the DeVryAI Catalyst core curriculum, available to undergraduate students across disciplines. This allows students to complete a set of foundational AI courses, on which they can continue to build more advanced AI courses throughout their studies. Furthermore, every DeVry course builds toward AI fluency, so students learn to apply AI responsibly in their field.AI program and credential expansion: DeVry launched its initial coursework in automation and machine learning in 2020 and has since taken meaningful steps to integrate AI throughout its academic portfolio, expanding applied AI coursework, specializations and certificates in Business and Technology programs. Building on this foundation, DeVry will expand its AI degree portfolio at the undergraduate and graduate level.Lifelong AI upskilling through DeVryPro: DeVryPro extends DeVry's AI strategy beyond traditional degrees, through its dedicated upskilling and reskilling platform designed to quickly teach workplace-critical skills to working professionals and employer partners.AI-enabled culture of care: DeVry Care uses predictive analytics alongside dedicated advisors to support learner success. Among learners who received targeted outreach and used tutoring, 80% saw an improved assignment grade and 96% were successful (they graduated or persisted).AI Learning Assistant in every course: All DeVry courses include an embedded AI Learning Assistant that provides real-time, conversational support, 24/7. The assistant currently handles over 90% of routine student questions, reducing friction and enabling the faculty to focus on higher-value instruction, coaching and mentorship.AI Assisted Support for every student: All DeVry students, alumni, and applicants have access to an integrated AI-powered agent in their account portal providing on-demand assistance, 24/7, designed to reduce friction and help learners get back to focusing on what matters most — their studies. Users supported by the AI-powered agent report both high rates of issue resolution and satisfaction, especially when the AI agent and Advisor work alongside each other.Faculty professional development: DeVry faculty are participating in a proprietary AI training program, created by faculty for faculty, ensuring they are supporting AI fluency development through coursework, discussions, projects, and learning experiences.Preparing for an AI economyBy fundamentally reimagining both pedagogical frameworks and curricular objectives for an AI-driven labor market, the university is helping ensure that students cultivate the specialized technical competencies and 'durable' skills essential for professional resilience."Recognizing that AI raises the bar for human performance, DeVry has centered its approach on a dual-competency model; one that balances technical AI fluency with the ethical reasoning and leadership necessary now and in the future," noted Awwad.Learn how DeVry is leading the way in AI education at DeVry.edu.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Jan. 22, 2026 Muscatine Community College is unveiling its newly expanded tech center, and the QC Rock Academy is honoring its founder with a free memorial concert.
	Watch: The 2026 Oscar nominations were announced this morning Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman presented the nominees for the 98th Academy Awards this morning.
	See the full list of 2026 Oscar nominations Horror movie Sinners has a record 16 nominations this year, including for best picture, actor Michael B. Jordan and a new category: achievement in casting.
	Monmouth College secures $5 million leadership gift A transformational $5 million investment from 1965 graduate William Goldsborough - the former chair of his alma mater's Board of Trustees - and his wife, Beverly, is accelerating Monmouth College's momentum, strengthening the student experience, modernizing the campus and investing in the college's future, a news release. "Beverly and I made a decision to pull [...]
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| Jan. 22, 2026 There are many family-friendly events going on this weekend, and we've brought in Dani Howe from WLLR to break it down.
	5 things to know about AMD that could save your vision (BPT) - Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) once meant a slow, irreversible loss of vision, and many people still believe that's true. But the AMD of today isn't the AMD of a generation ago. Advances in early detection and new treatments have transformed what was once an inevitable march toward blindness into a more manageable condition for many, especially when detected early and treated by a retina specialist. During February's AMD Awareness Month, the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) encourages the public to learn more about AMD to safeguard their vision."An AMD diagnosis can be frightening," ASRS President Geoffrey G. Emerson, MD, PhD, FASRS, said. "The key is detecting AMD before irreversible damage occurs. Once you've lost vision from AMD, we can't always restore it. But catching AMD early and working closely with a retina specialist gives patients the best chance to preserve their sight and their quality of life."Nearly 20 million Americans are living with AMD, a condition that damages the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD occurs in two primary forms: dry and wet. Most people are diagnosed with early or intermediate dry AMD, which may remain stable for many years or gradually affect vision over time. However, about 1 in 10 people with intermediate AMD will progress to wet AMD, an advanced form marked by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macula that can lead to sudden and significant vision loss.The American Society of Retina Specialists is sharing five essential facts about today's AMD that could help protect your sight.1. AMD is the leading cause of blindness in people over 55When people think about vision loss and aging, cataracts and glaucoma often come to mind. But AMD is the leading cause of blindness in individuals over the age of 55 in developed countries. Unlike cataracts, which can be surgically corrected, vision loss and blindness from AMD can be permanent when not caught early enough. The strongest risk factor for AMD is older age, yet AMD is a disease that can strike earlier than expected, so prioritizing healthy vision should be a lifelong endeavor. Adopting habits that support healthy vision, such as engaging in regular exercise, avoiding smoking, eating nutritious foods including dark, leafy greens and fish, and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure, is critical for safeguarding sight at any age.2. Regular dilated eye exams are your best defense against AMD vision lossAMD's early stages are silent, with most people experiencing no symptoms. But a dilated eye exam can detect warning signs like drusen deposits, pigment changes or fluid accumulation years before vision changes occur.Dilated eye exams and advanced retinal imaging technologies allow retina specialists to diagnose the specific type and stage of AMD and create personalized monitoring or treatment plans. The National Eye Institute recommends dilated eye exams at least every 1 to 2 years for people over 60, and more frequently for those with AMD risk factors such as family history, smoking or cardiovascular disease.3. Treatment for wet AMD can prevent vision loss, and even improve visionWet AMD can progress rapidly without treatment, but today's therapies have transformed outcomes. Anti-VEGF medications that control the leakage and growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye can often slow or stop the progression of wet AMD. Retina specialists administer these medications through intravitreal injections, or eye injections, in which the drug is placed directly into the back of the eye.Anti-VEGF treatments improve vision in about 1 in 3 patients and help stabilize vision in nearly 9 out of 10. Newer treatment options may also allow some patients to maintain vision with fewer injections and office visits.4. Advanced dry AMD can now be slowed with new treatment optionsNew advances have also been made benefitting people with geographic atrophy (GA), the late stage of dry AMD. No current treatment can prevent vision loss for patients with GA, but two newer drugs can help to slow GA progression. Both drugs are eye injections that patients receive every one to two months, helping patients preserve functional vision longer.5. Not all eye doctors specialize in AMD: Expert care mattersRetina specialists are medical doctors who complete up to 10 years of advanced medical training to specialize in ophthalmology and sub-specialize in diseases and surgery of the retina. Their extensive education and training make them the most qualified experts to diagnose AMD and develop a personalized treatment plan for patients with the condition.If you experience symptoms of AMD such as blurred central vision, wavy or distorted lines, or a decrease in color intensity, see a retina specialist as soon as possible. Find a retina specialist near you at FindYourRetinaSpecialist.org.
	Start the new year right: Top 5 items for every senior's health care to-do list (BPT) - By Dr. Ali Khan, chief medical officer for Aetna® Medicare and practicing board-certified internist After you enrolled in your Medicare Advantage plan for 2026, you may have put it out of your mind. However, the new year is the ideal time to prioritize your health. I talk to my patients every day about how important preventive care is for maintaining wellness and preventing minor health issues from becoming more serious concerns. Unfortunately, it's often overlooked among older adults. By 2050, the population of adults ages 50 and older living with at least one chronic condition is projected to nearly double, making preventive care even more important. With preventive care and regular screenings, your physician can more easily spot areas of concern early, so health problems can be more effectively treated or even, in some cases, prevented. To get started, here are five ways to make the most of your benefits, putting your well-being at the top of your New Year's resolutions. 1. Understand your plan Take time to familiarize yourself with this year's plan. Are there benefits you could have used last year, but for some reason didn't take advantage of? Make sure to explore these in 2026. For example, your plan may include things like access to fitness programs and nutrition counseling designed for older adults. If you have an Aetna Medicare Advantage plan, you can scan the QR code on your ID card with your smartphone, which will take you directly to information about your specific plan. You can also contact the Member Services team. They are ready to answer questions, walk you through your benefits or even join a call with your provider to help schedule appointments and walk through billing questions. 2. Make appointments now Most plans cover annual wellness visits, vaccinations and basic health screenings, so set appointments for these crucial visits right away. For some people, setting appointments at the same time each year makes them easier to remember. Medicare Advantage plans commonly offer $0 copays for annual physicals, colonoscopies, mammograms and routine eye and hearing exams. Some plans also include $0 copays for primary care visits and labs, and $0 copays for certain vaccines. This makes it easier to ensure you'll take care of these vital health appointments every year. 3. Put your annual wellness visit and routine physical exam at the top of the list Your wellness visit sets your care road map for the year. It gives you the chance to talk to your primary care provider and build a prevention plan. During this visit, your doctor will use your answers to a questionnaire to create a personalized health care plan for you to follow. Additionally, you'll want to schedule your routine physical exam for an overall picture of your health. During this visit, your doctor will do a full exam that includes blood work, lab tests and vaccines. They'll also order any preventive screenings that are due. By identifying health conditions early, preventive care improves treatment options and reduces costly treatments and hospitalizations, allowing people and their loved ones to manage expenses and focus on what truly matters: your well-being. 4. Don't forget vision and hearing Using your hearing and vision benefits is important for your well-being. Even if you don't wear corrective lenses, vision exams are key to identifying conditions like glaucoma and cataracts. And whether or not you have difficulty hearing, it's also vital for your overall health. As a board-certified internist and practicing physician serving older adults, I encourage everyone to prioritize common age-related health screenings like vision and hearing. These are critical for catching signs of more serious health conditions like dementia, and they allow for early intervention. 5. Download the Aetna HealthSM app In addition to making sure you have a new ID card for 2026, you may also want to download the Aetna HealthSM app to get the most for your health. Aetna is making it simpler to stay on top of your health by providing educational resources like a video library of Medicare basics and benefits so you can stay informed and get the most out of your plan. On the Aetna website and in the app, you can also access additional around-the-clock tools and resources to find in-network doctors, track claims and even print a list of your medications to bring to appointments. Maximizing your plan for a healthier 2026 Health care can seem complicated, but it doesn't have to be. Aetna Medicare Advantage provides access to a Member Services team to answer your questions, and a Care Management program that offers a dedicated case manager to members to help coordinate doctors, support hospital recovery and guide you in advanced care decisions for certain medical conditions. Qualifying members can also get access to a Medication Therapy Management program for a personalized prescription review. There's even a 24-Hour Nurse Line* connecting members with a registered nurse for quick answers to health questions, day or night. Interacting with your plan early in the year helps you maximize your benefits. Aetna makes accessing your plan easier through their secure member website, where you can view benefits, track claims, find in-network care and see prescriptions all in one place. You can also access a video library of Medicare basics to stay informed and get the most from your plan. Make 2026 a year to prioritize your health. Find more information and get the year off to a good start at AetnaMedicare.com. *While only your doctor can diagnose, prescribe or give medical advice, the 24-Hour Nurse Line can provide information on a variety of health topics. See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. Participating health care providers are independent contractors and are neither agents nor employees of Aetna. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed, and provider network composition is subject to change. This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Health information programs provide general health information and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other health care professional. Contact a health care professional with any questions or concerns about specific health care needs. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to our website. Y0001_NR_7002354_2026_C
	Credit union modifies hours because of expected severe cold Because of the extremely cold temperatures expected on Friday, Jan. 23, all Ascentra Credit Union branch locations will be open with modified hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., a news release says. Ascentra's Digital Branch will be available during its regularly scheduled hours of 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to help members. Members also [...]
	Scott County residents rally against proposed natural gas power plant The plant, operated by Central Iowa Power Cooperative, would turn on when the demand for power is highest.
	ROVWA School District asks for patience during search for bus drivers This week, the district had three drivers call out, and with no substitutes available, it stretched routes thin.
	Pay it Forward \| Morrison woman offers support to families in need Lori Snow opened God's Will Ministry two years ago with the goal of giving families the resources they need.
	Pay what you want at Rock Island Library book sale The Rock Island Public Library’s first quarterly book sale of 2026 will be Friday and Saturday, Jan. 23 and 24. The pay-what-you-want book sale runs from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Rock Island Downtown Library, 401 19th St., Rock Island. Books for all ages will be available for browsing and buying. Unless otherwise marked, sales are [...]
	Cesar Toscano: My IEP story, through my mom's point of view Education reporter Cesar Toscano writes about having an individualized education program, or IEP, through his mother's point of view.

Friday, January 23rd, 2026

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026