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

Friday, February 13th, 2026
	'Tot Time' at Musco Sports Center is fun for young kids Muscatine families with young children have a new indoor place to play at a reasonable price. The Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department, along with the Musco Sports Center, is offering a new weekly drop-in program especially for young children and their families. “Tot Time” will be held every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. [...]
	1 injured in Mercer Co. house fire Developing.
	Man awaiting trial in sex abuse case arrest for allegedly sexually abusing child A 22-year-old Davenport man who is awaiting trial for allegedly sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl last year was arrested Thursday for allegedly sexually abused a child.
	It sure doesn't feel like February in the Quad Cities Unseasonably warm spring-like temperatures will dominate the weather across the Quad Cities this weekend into the middle of next week. Rain chances are very slim not only this weekend, but into the early part of next week. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Cook review: True-crime 'Investigation of Lucy Letby' is disturbing documentary This isn't the first documentary about one of the most notorious cases in British history in recent years. But it's one of the most accessible and the most popular. "The Investigation of Lucy Letby" has become a recent hit for streaming viewers. True-crime aficionados - and I am one of them - have followed this [...]
	Long-time Scott County Recorder Rita Vargas won’t run for reelection this fall Rita Vargas has served as Scott County recorder for 24 years.
	Iowa Court of Appeals upholds conviction in 2022 murder in Clinton Trevor Ward was convicted in in 2024 of having killed Dustin "Dusty" Doran in March of 2022.
	Geneseo honors business owner Ray Wirth, as well as two teenagers who saved a neighbor Mayor Sean Johnson said the two teens set the standard for being a neighborly city and were an inspiration to everyone.
	Clinton, Camanche, become Fiber-Connected Communities Clinton and Camanche are now Fiber-Connected Communities after the completion of ImOn’s100% fiber Internet network in the area, a news release says. The completed network delivers fiber-to-the-home and fiber-to-the-business Internet service tomore than 10,000 addresses in Clinton and 2,000 addresses in Camanche, with speeds up to 1 Gbps for homes and 10 Gbps for businesses. [...]
	Aledo residents speak on trash troubles The city received more than 600 complaints from residents about Lakeshore Recycling Systems.
	Dispatches from Des Moines: Moments of reflection at the Iowa State Capitol During the legislative session, the Iowa State Capitol is a bustling hub of state lawmakers, lobbyists, staff and reporters. Whenever I get overwhelmed, I remind myself to just look up.
	Eight months on, investigation still 'extensive' after teens removed from Louisa County camp In June, Iowa and Louisa County authorities took 88 minors into protective custody at a faith-based substance abuse recovery camp near Columbus Junction.
	Britain's High Court says government illegally banned Pro-Palestinian group In its ruling, the court said an earlier decision to ban the Pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action as a terrorist organization was "disproportionate."
	Naming Iowa This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.If Lieutenant Albert M. Lea had realized the trouble he would cause back in 1836, he might have never casually referred…
	Spring Flood Outlook: Low Risk for Mississippi River Good news for spring: Flooding risk is below normal this year
	On their way! 4 people on NASA Crew-12 mission launch to International Space Station The four people are set to dock with the I.S.S. on Saturday, returning the orbital lab to its full complement of seven. NASA's last mission, Crew-11, left a month early due to an ill crew member.
	'Wuthering Heights' celebrates mad, passionate excess — but lacks real feeling Emerald Fennell's extravagant adaptation of Emily Brontë's classic cares little for subtlety. Ultimately, this love affair is more photogenic than it is deeply moving.
	Can you medal in quiz? Go for the gold! Plus: more Olympics, the Super Bowl and some monks.
	Goldman Sachs' top lawyer to resign after emails show close ties to Jeffrey Epstein Kathy Ruemmler, a former White House counsel to President Obama, says she will resign from Goldman Sachs after emails between her and Jeffrey Epstein showed a close relationship between the pair.
	Trump pardons 5 former NFL players for crimes ranging from perjury to drug trafficking Those pardoned include ex-NFL players Joe Klecko, Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Travis Henry and the late Billy Cannon.
	Judge blocks Trump admin from rescinding health grants to Democratic-led states The ruling temporarily blocks the Trump Administration from cutting $600 million in public health grants that had already been allocated to four Democratic-led states.
	Bangladesh National Party claims victory in first election since student uprising
	There are three Friday the 13ths to look forward to in 2026 Friday the 13th usually only occurs once or twice per year. But 2026 is the (somewhat) more rare exception.
Thursday, February 12th, 2026
	Illinois considers school mobile panic systems SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinois lawmakers are considering a proposal that would set statewide standards for emergency panic alert systems in schools. State Sen. Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2948 which would task the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) with developing the regulations. The systems, also known as “Alyssa’s Alert,” would allow staff [...]
	Aledo residents speak on trash troubles The city received more than 600 complaints from residents about Lakeshore Recycling Systems.
	Morrison track state champion Brady Anderson commits to UNI Brady Anderson announced his college decision to run for the University of Northern Iowa Panthers next season.
	High school basketball: February 12th Watch highlights from Galva vs A-town, Morning Star vs Unity Christian boys basketball and Assumption vs Clinton girls basketball.
	Aledo residents fed-up with lack of trash pickup Over 600 complaints from various community members have been logged at Aledo City Hall.
	Federal judge rules against feds, orders overhaul of treatment of detainees at Whipple Building The Whipple Federal Building, the base of operations for federal agents in Minnesota and the site where federal detainees are held. (Photo by Henry Redman/Minnesota Reformer)A federal judge appointed by President Donald Trump issued a pointed ruling Thursday, ordering the federal government to overhaul how detainees are treated at the Whipple Federal Building to ensure their constitutional right to counsel is honored. “The Constitution does not permit the government to arrest thousands of individuals and then disregard their constitutional rights because it would be too challenging to honor those rights,” wrote U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel. The order, which is in effect for 14 days, came in response to a lawsuit alleging that the constitutional rights of detainees at Whipple are routinely violated. Brasel is requiring the government to provide people detained there access to in-person visits with their lawyers seven days per week, as well as “free, private, and unmonitored” telephone calls to counsel and family within one hour of their detention and prior to being transferred out of state. Previously, the Star Tribune reported on detainees living in inhumane conditions inside Whipple, including a Muslim woman shackled at the ankles and kept for 24 hours inside a bathroom with three men. The ruling is just one of many rebukes federal judges have leveled against the Trump administration in recent weeks, from jurists appointed by Republican and Democratic presidents alike. Patrick J. Schiltz, chief judge of the federal district court in Minnesota and a former clerk to conservative icon Antonin Scalia, ripped the Trump administration for ignoring dozens of court orders in a ruling last month. Last week, Federal District Judge Jerry Black Blackwell, an appointee of President Joe Biden, lambasted the government’s penchant for ignoring court orders: “The DOJ, the DHS, and ICE are not above the law. They do wield extraordinary power, and that power has to exist within constitutional limits.” Brasel’s order came down hours after the federal government said it was winding down Operation Metro Surge, which brought 3,000 immigration enforcement agents here starting in December. Courtesy of Minnesota Reformer
	Scott County Board shoots down new power plant ordinance If approved, the ordinance would have allowed power plants to be built on prime farmland.
	Bill honoring Trudy Appleby would extend statute of limitations for aggravated kidnapping The three-year statute of limitations for aggravated kidnapping limited prosecutors when seeking an indictment against Jamison Fisher.
	Aledo considers ending contract with waste collection provider after hundreds of complaints Aledo city staff and residents stood together Thursday night, adamant that the current waste collection provider, Lakeshore Recycling, is not fulfilling its services. A handful of people voiced their frustrations during a public hearing at the Mercer County Junior High School in the band room. "One day I was stepping out my back door and [...]
	Bettendorf man’s sex charges dismissed; pleads guilty to child endangerment He has a sentencing hearing scheduled for May 5, according to court documents.
	Controversial new power plant rejected for rural Scott County The Scott County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Thursday to reject an ordinance change that would allow construction of a new natural-gas power plant proposed for prime farmland east of Maysville, Iowa.
	Israel accuses two of using military secrets to place Polymarket bets The Tel Aviv indictment is the first publicly known instance of people being accused of leveraging military secrets to place bets on the popular prediction market.
	Figge Art Museum presents new Preston Singletary immersive exhibition This winter, the Figge Art Museum presents "Preston Singletary: Raven and the Box of Daylight," an immersive exhibition that brings ancestral storytelling into the present through glass, sound, and light. On view February 14 through Aug. 2, the exhibition invites visitors to step inside an Indigenous creation story that continues to shape how people understand [...]
	Joe Moreno named to Running USA Hall of Champions Joe Moreno was 15 years old when he was given a pair of white Nike Cortez shoes with a vibrant red Swoosh on the side. Those white shoes would last him countless hours and guide Moreno to find his life's love and passion, eventually landing him a spot in the Running USA Hall of Fame. [...]
	How do astronauts go to the bathroom in space? 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. How do astronauts go to the bathroom in space? – Henry D., age 7, Cambridge, Massachusetts Whether you use a hole in the ground or a fancy gold-plated toilet, on Earth, gravity pulls your waste down and away from you. For astronauts, “doing their duty” is a bit more complicated. Without gravity, any loose drops or dribbles could float out of the toilet. That’s not good for astronauts’ health, nor for the sensitive equipment inside the space station. I study volcanoes on other planets, and I’m interested in how people can work in extreme environments like space. So how do you go to the bathroom in space or on the International Space Station? Carefully – and with suction. The new toilet is more comfortable, easier to use for both men and women, and lighter. NASA/James Blair via Wikimedia Commons A bathroom vacuum In 1961, Alan Shepard became the first American in space. His trip was supposed to be short, so there was no plan for pee. But the launch was delayed for over three hours after Shepard climbed into the rocket. Eventually, he asked if he could exit the rocket to pee. Instead of wasting more time, mission control concluded that Shepard could safely pee inside his spacesuit. The first American in space went up in damp underwear. Fortunately, there’s a toilet on the space station these days. The original toilet was designed in 2000 for men and was difficult for women to use: You had to pee while standing up. To poop, astronauts used thigh straps to sit on the small toilet and to keep a tight seal between their bottoms and the toilet seat. It didn’t work very well and was hard to keep clean. So in 2018, NASA spent US$23 million on a new and improved toilet for astronauts on the International Space Station. To get around the problems of zero-gravity bathroom breaks, the new toilet is a specially designed vacuum toilet. There are two parts: a hose with a funnel at the end for peeing and a small raised toilet seat for pooping. The bathroom is full of handholds and footholds so that astronauts don’t drift off in the middle of their business. To pee, they can sit or stand and then hold the funnel and hose tightly against their skin so that nothing leaks out. To poop, astronauts lift the toilet lid and sit on the seat – just like here on Earth. But this toilet starts suctioning as soon as the lid is lifted to prevent things from drifting away – and to control the stink. To make sure that there is a tight fit between the toilet seat and the astronauts’ behinds, the toilet seat is smaller than the one in your house. Russian Progress spacecrafts bring supplies to the ISS and take on trash and waste, which is then burned up in the atmosphere with the spacecraft. NASA/Wikimedia Commons After the deed is done Pee is more than 90% water. Since water is heavy and takes up a lot of space, it is better to recycle pee rather than bring up clean water from Earth. All astronaut pee is collected and turned back into clean, drinkable water. Astronauts say that “Today’s coffee is tomorrow’s coffee!” Sometimes, astronaut poop is brought back to Earth for scientists to study, but most of the time, bathroom waste – including poop – is burned. Poop is vacuumed into garbage bags which are put into airtight containers. Astronauts also put toilet paper, wipes and gloves – gloves help keep everything clean – in the containers too. The containers are then loaded into a cargo ship that brought supplies to the space station, and this ship is launched at Earth and burns up in Earth’s upper atmosphere. If you’ve ever seen a shooting star, it might have been a meteorite burning up in Earth’s atmosphere – or it might have been flaming astronaut poo. And the next time you have to pee or poop, be thankful that you’re doing it with gravity’s help. 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: Tracy K.P. Gregg, University at Buffalo Read more:Curious Kids: Can people colonize Mars?Colonizing Mars means contaminating Mars – and never knowing for sure if it had its own native lifeSpace Force sounds like a joke thanks to pop culture – that could be a problem for an important military branchTracy K.P. Gregg does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
	How do scientists hunt for dark matter? A physicist explains why the mysterious substance is so hard to find 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. Can we generate a way to interact with dark matter with current technology? – Leonardo S., age 13, Guanajuato, Mexico That’s a great question. It’s one of the most difficult and fascinating problems right now in both astronomy and physics, because while scientists know that the elusive substance called dark matter makes up the majority of all matter in the universe, we’ve never actually observed it directly. Dark matter is so difficult to interact with because it’s “dark,” which means it doesn’t interact directly with light in any way. I’m a physicist, and scientists like me observe the world around us mainly by looking for signals from different wavelengths of light. So no matter what type of technology scientists use, they run into the same issue in the hunt for dark matter. It’s not completely impossible to interact with dark matter, though, because it can interact with ordinary matter in other ways that don’t involve light. But those interactions are generally very weak. What we call dark matter is really anything that we can see only through these weaker interactions, especially gravity. How we know dark matter exists One way that dark matter can interact with ordinary matter is through gravity. In fact, gravity is the main reason scientists even think dark matter exists at all. For decades, scientists have been observing how galaxies spin and move throughout the universe. Gravity acts on stars and galaxies, in the same way it keeps you from floating off into space. Heavier objects have a stronger gravitational pull. At these huge scales, researchers have spotted some unexpected quirks that gravity alone can’t explain. For example, almost 100 years ago, a Swiss astronomer named Fritz Zwicky studied a cluster of galaxies called the Coma Cluster. He noticed the galaxies inside it were moving very fast, so much so that they should have flown apart many millions of years ago. The only way the cluster could have stayed together for so long is if there was much more matter holding it together with gravity than the telescope could see. This extra matter necessary to hold the galaxies together became known as dark matter. About 40 years after Zwicky, an American astronomer named Vera Rubin looked at the individual stars moving around the centers of spiral galaxies as they rotated. She saw that the stars at the outside edges of the spiral were moving much faster than you’d expect if only the gravity from the stars you could see was keeping them from flying off into intergalactic space. Just as with the galaxies moving around the cluster, the motion of the stars around the edges of the galaxies could be best explained if there was much more matter in the galaxies than what we could see. A rotating spiral galaxy in the Coma Cluster. NASA, ESA, and the Hubble Heritage Team (STScl/AURA); Acknowledgement: K. Cook (Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory) More recently, scientists have combined optical telescopes that observe visible light with X-ray telescopes. Optical telescopes can take pictures of galaxies as they move and rotate. Sometimes, galaxies in these images are distorted or magnified by gravity coming from large masses in front of them. This phenomenon is called gravitational lensing, which is when the gravity around a very heavy object is so strong that it bends the light passing by it, acting like a lens. X-ray telescopes, on the other hand, can see the clusters of hot gases that surround galaxies. By combining these two telescopes, astronomers can see galaxies as well as the gases surrounding them – all the observable matter. Then, they can compare these images with the optical results. If there’s more gravitational lensing seen than what could be caused by the gas, there must be more mass hiding somewhere and causing the lensing. The picture combines optical images of the galaxies with X-ray images. The region in the pink shows the area where the X-ray telescope sees the distribution of gas around the galaxies, and the blue area shows the region where gravitational lensing can be observed. There is blue in places where there isn’t pink, so lensing is showing that there’s something else heavy there. Dark matter is again the best explanation. NASA, ESA, CXC, M. Bradac (University of California, Santa Barbara), and S. Allen (Stanford University) How we might be able to see dark matter Unfortunately, all this tells astronomers only that dark matter must be there, not what it really is. The evidence for dark matter is all based on how it interacts with gravity at very large scales. It’s still “dark” to scientists in the sense that it hasn’t interacted directly with any measurement devices. The good news is that light and gravity aren’t the only forces in the universe. A force called the weak force might be able to interact directly with dark matter and give scientists a direct signal to observe. Most of the ideas about what the dark matter might be include the possibility of it interacting through the weak force, converting energy into signals that are visible. The weak force is not observable at normal scales of distance. But for objects the size of an atom’s nucleus or smaller, it can change one type of subatomic particle into another. The weak force can also transfer energy and momentum at very short distances – this is the main effect scientists hope to observe with dark matter. These processes might be extremely rare, but in theory they should be possible to see. Most experiments looking to see dark matter directly are searching for signals of rare weak interactions in an underground detector, or for gamma rays that can be seen in a special gamma-ray telescope. In either case, a signal from dark matter would likely be very faint, resulting from an interaction that can’t be explained any other way, or a signal that doesn’t seem to have any other possible source. Even if the effect is faint, it might still be possible to observe, and any such signal would be an exciting step forward in being able to see the dark matter more directly. In the end, it may be a combination of signals from experiments deep underground, in particle colliders, and different types of telescopes that finally lets scientists see dark matter more directly. Whichever technology ends up being successful, hopefully sometime soon the matter that makes up our universe will be a little less dark. 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: David Joffe, Kennesaw State University Read more:How are dark matter and antimatter different?When darkness shines: How dark stars could illuminate the early universeThe Vera C. Rubin Observatory will help astronomers investigate dark matter, continuing the legacy of its pioneering namesakeDavid Joffe receives funding from NASA through a grant from the Georgia Space Grant Consortium.
	Scott County board shoots down new power plant ordinance If approved, the ordinance would have allowed power plants to be built on prime farmland.
	Rock Island High School to lose school resource officer due to police staffing shortage Rock Island Police Department Chief Timothy McCloud said in a statement that Officer Thomas Danof is needed "on the street" for patrol duties.
	Scott County Board rejects thermal-energy zoning proposal Supervisors voted against a proposal that would change zoning rules and allow thermal-energy plants to fall under “special permitted uses,” with one member abstaining to vote.
	Stewart Road railroad crossing temporarily closed, detour in place A traffic alert for drivers in Muscatine.
	Inside Iowa Politics: Whether EV makers can sell vehicles in Iowa Iowa legislators face an upcoming deadline if they want to change the law to allow electric vehicle manufacturers to sell directly to consumers in the state.
	James Van Der Beek's death sparks QCA conversations on early cancer screening Cancer before the age of 50 is rare diagnosis - but one that's increasing, according to findings from the American Association for Cancer Research. It suggests within the last year, colorectal cancer is becoming more common in young people. Actor James Van Der Beek announced he was being treated for colorectal cancer in 2024. He [...]
	Woman pleads guilty in child sex abuse case A Davenport woman has pleaded guilty for her role in a child sex abuse case.
	Valentine’s at Niabi Zoo: Love takes many forms We set out to find the cutest lovebugs in the QCA. At Niabi, that includes a fennec fox family, inseparable otter sisters, singing dogs & pining pallas's cats.
	Stewart Road, Muscatine, railroad crossing closed temporarily Stewart Road in Muscatine is closed at the GPC railroad spur crossing, located just north of Dick Drake Way, because of emergency repairs on a broken section of rail discovered early Thursday, a news release says. The City of Muscatine closed the crossing Thursday morning. The contractor performing the repairs expects the crossing to reopen [...]
	The Heart of the Story: Harvesting a story 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. A children's book author from the QCA takes [...]
	Man charged with using hidden camera to get videos of a minor pleads guilty to federal charges A man accused of using a hidden camera to capture several videos of a minor has pleaded guilty to federal charges.
	Scott County Supervisors reject ordinance that would have made way for power plant Residents in rural Scott County organized against the power plant, citing concerns over air quality, resident health, the environment and taking prime farm ground out of commission.
	Quad City Chordbusters to deliver singing Valentines A singing Valentine’s Day tradition is returning to the Quad Cities Area for another year.
	Man sentenced after pleading guilty to grooming, enticing a minor A Davenport man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to grooming and enticing a minor.
	Iowa House subcommittee discusses bill banning vaccine mandates during health emergencies Iowa lawmakers in the House of Representatives discussed vaccine mandates and what previous safety precautions should be allowed in a future public health disaster.
	Man sentenced after pleading guilty to chatting online with undercover officer posed as teenager girl A Mount Pleasant man who pleaded guilty to chatting online with an undercover officer who was posing as a teen girl in Scott County has been sentenced.
	Pregnancy complications may signal future heart, diabetes risk, researcher says Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or other complications could put you at a higher risk for chronic diseases. Here's how to keep your heart as healthy as possible.
	Iowa House committee advances bill limiting local anti-discrimination ordinances A Republican-led Iowa House committee has moved forward a bill that would prevent cities and counties from enacting their own anti-discrimination ordinances for groups not protected by the state.
	Much warmer weather and potential record high After already seeing much warmer than normal temperatures throughout this week here in the Quad Cities, more of it is to come. By the end of the week and this upcoming weekend, temperatures are looking to warm up even more reaching the mid to upper 50s. Not only are temperatures will be near 60s by [...]
	Local health experts urge young people to watch for colorectal cancer symptoms While doctors recommend getting screened for colon cancer around age 45, people with an increased risk or early warning signs should think about getting screened sooner.
	1 Rock Island High School student faces misdemeanor charge after fight Police were called this week to a fight that broke out at Rock Island-Milan High School.
	Upper Iowa University relocates to Scott Community College Bettendorf campus Upper Iowa University has announced that its Quad Cities location has relocated to Eastern Iowa Community Colleges - Scott Community College, 500 Belmont Road, Bettendorf, a news release says. Upper Iowa University is in Room 1203 on the Scott campus. "This move strengthens Upper Iowa University's long-standing partnership with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges and reinforces [...]
	School Resource Officer to leave Rock Island High School Officer Thomas Danos, the school resource officer at Rock Island High School, will be leaving his position at the school after Friday, Feb. 13. That's according to a letter obtained by Our Quad Cities News that was sent to Rock Island High School parents on Feb. 6. It was confirmed by Rock Island Police Deputy [...]
	Family Resources urges teens to recognize dating abuse , ahead of Valentine’s Day February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and advocates say unhealthy relationship behaviors often begin earlier than many people realize.
	Upper Iowa University adding location at Scott Community College University officials said Upper Iowa will accept up to 78 transferred credits from community college partners.
	Fight at Rock Island High School injures teen a day after school board discusses safety A 17-year-old faces a misdemeanor charge of battery in the incident, according to police.
	RIMSD employees placed on paid administrative leave Rock Island Milan School District's Deputy Superintendent, Jeff Dase, is on paid administrative leave after an allegation of inappropriate conduct was brought against him. That's according to a letter obtained by Our Quad Cities News. The decision to place Dase on leave while an investigation is conducted was made in late January. This is the [...]
	Scam Alert: Henry County, Iowa Sheriff’s Office warns of bail bond scam The Henry County Iowa Sheriff’s Office is warning the public of a scam they say is targeting families of incarcerated people.
	Understanding the link between pregnancy complications and long-term heart issues The link between pregnancy complications and long-term heart issues is a known problem, but has received little research.
	17-year-old arrested after fight at Rock Island High School; RSO to be pulled due to staffing issues The 17-year-old has been charged with misdemeanor battery. District officials said the 18-year-old victim is home recovering.
	Report finds children with mental health diagnoses often incarcerated instead of getting treatment Dozens of juvenile detention centers in 25 states reported holding children weeks or months as they awaited space at long-term psychiatric treatment facilities, according to a new survey.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by High Risk Unit of Iowa Department of Corrections Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	Crime Stoppers: Help ID man in Davenport attempted burglary, mischief case Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted for escape from corrections residence facility in Davenport Davenport police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man in connection with an attempted burglary and criminal mischief reported Jan. 4 in the 3100 block of West Central Park.
	QC Rock Academy to rock out at The Rust Belt An all-star cast of old and new QC Rock Academy students will take the stage to rock the night away! Billy Gardner joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Greg Hipskind Memorial Jam at The Rust Belt. For more information, click here.
	Talking all things love and dating \| ABC10 Dating Special Looking for ways to find and keep love? ABC10 looks into online dating, and dating safety and shares tips from a relationship coach.
	Bus carrying Northwest Iowa baseball team crashes on highway, 1 student dies from injuries The crash happened around 11:30 a.m.
	QCA pet store will pay 'tribute' to your ex for Valentine's Day A pet store in Davenport is letting you pay 'tribute' to an ex in a unique way for Valentine's Day. Pet Supplies Plus will let customers share their exes' first names and then name crickets after those people. Staff will feed those crickets to the store's reptiles this Valentine's Day! Staff say each reptile can [...]
	Niabi Zoo officials show off some of their loving couples From fennec foxes to Asian small-clawed otters, Niabi has plenty of happy families!
	Winter Olympic shocker: American Chloe Kim falls short of halfpipe gold three-peat Korea's Gaon Choi, 17, rebounded from a hard fall to win gold — and end her role model's historic bid for three in a row in the Winter Olympic halfpipe.
	Chloe Kim's protégé foiled her Olympic three-peat dreams. She's celebrating anyway Korea's Gaon Choi, 17, rebounded from a hard fall to win gold — and end her role model's historic bid for three in a row in the Winter Olympic halfpipe.
	How insurance needs change as your relationships change How insurance needs change as your relationships changeWith Valentine’s Day upon us and spring right around the corner, love and romance are top of mind for many. But the truth is that any time of year is appropriate to think about your connection with a significant other, especially when it comes to insurance matters. Because just as relationships evolve throughout your life, so can coverage needs.“As you and your partner move through life, your financial responsibilities, shared property, and risk profiles can change,” the Insurance Information Institute’s Janet Ruiz tells TheZebra.com. “Updating insurance ensures that coverage accurately reflects these shifts and prevents unexpected gaps.”Truth is, most Americans eventually partner up under a single roof, which means they’ll need to carefully navigate insurance matters. Consider that most adults younger than age 45 (59%) have cohabitated with an unmarried partner at some point, according to Pew Research, and married couples comprise nearly half (47%) of American households today, per the U.S. Census Bureau.Let’s take a closer look at common relationship stages and how your homeowners/renters and car insurance requirements can change accordingly.Moving in TogetherWhether you plan to rent or own a home with an unmarried partner, give careful thought to renters or homeowners insurance, as well as auto coverage. The proper amount can provide valuable monetary support if your home or car is damaged by a covered peril. But you have to be aware of coverage deficiencies that many don’t expect.“Some insurance gaps can show quickly when you live together,” says Beth Swanson, insurance analyst for The Zebra. “When only one partner is the legal homeowner, the other partner’s personal belongings often aren’t fully covered under the homeowner’s policy, making renters insurance necessary. Liability coverage is another common surprise, especially if both people share responsibility for the home, pets, or guests.”Another overlooked aspect is whether your partner regularly drives your vehicle but isn’t listed on your auto policy. In this instance, you could have zero coverage if that partner causes an accident, as insurance companies can deny claims for undisclosed household drivers.“Carriers generally define a household as people who live together at the same primary residence, regardless of marital status. This affects who must be listed on an auto policy and whose belongings are covered under a home or renters policy,” adds Ruiz.Bundling auto and renters policies while unmarried can save you 5%, on average, per The Zebra. But keeping separate policies is advised in some scenarios, such as if you own separate vehicles, have different insurance histories, or aren’t ready to combine coverage yet.Getting MarriedAfter you tie the knot, you can benefit from coordinated coverage, merged vs. separate policies and various discounts. Case in point: Married policyholders pay nearly 9% less, on average, for auto insurance than single drivers.That difference isn't uniform around the country, though. In this map, you can see how much of a difference where you live makes in terms of how much less you pay (on average) as a married person. TheZebra But note that premiums depend on many factors, and combining policies isn’t always cheaper if one spouse has a higher rate or different coverage needs. Some couples maintain separate policies initially after marriage, particularly if they are keeping separate residences temporarily or have complex asset situations.Personal finance expert Andrew Lokenauth says it’s wise to immediately review your insurance policies after getting married to add a spouse as an additional or named insured on policies and to add beneficiaries. Your focus at this stage should also be on improving protection, not just saving money. Smart early steps include raising liability limits and evaluating whether an umbrella policy is appropriate.“You should also carefully review coverage limits and revise your deductibles to match combined finances,” notes Lokenauth. “I’ve seen couples wait months before addressing whether their $250,000 liability coverage adequately protects their now-combined $800,000 net worth, which is backwards thinking.”If children enter the picture, revisit your coverage levels again and ensure that you have adequate protection in place for all your assets. Now’s a good time to think about adding life insurance, as well.Separating or DivorcingUnfortunately, plenty of relationships don’t work out. If you and your partner split up, you’ll want to properly review insurance policies to reflect changes in residence, vehicle ownership and financial responsibility.“Both partners need clarity on who is covered, who will pay premiums, and how liability will be managed during the transition,” Ruiz says.Insurance policies often remain shared longer than you’d expect during a separation. Living arrangements can quickly change, but the legal details and paperwork around homes, vehicles and ownership can require time to untangle, as divorce often takes months or years to finalize.“These delays can create coverage and liability risks. For example, if both names are still on an auto or homeowners policy, one person’s accident, missed payment, or claim could still affect the other,” cautions Swanson.Names should typically be removed from policies and paperwork once financial and ownership responsibilities have been legally divided, to prevent unwanted liability or exposure in the event of a claim.Death of a Partner or SpouseIf your partner passes away, insurance and financial paperwork are often the last thing you want to think about. In the short term, most policies remain active, but you’ll likely need to update them once you are ready.“Insurance companies may need to adjust your policy based on who is now listed as the primary insured, who owns the home or vehicles, and whether the household is changing,” says Swanson. “It’s a good idea to contact your carrier when you can, to make sure coverage continues smoothly, and there aren’t any unexpected gaps. You will also likely need a death certificate before you can change many of these financial loose ends.”Be aware that many insurance discounts can disappear after a spouse’s death. Data from The Zebra indicate that widowed drivers pay an average of 3% more than married drivers but 5% less than single or divorced drivers.“Household-based pricing that assumed two adults now reflects one, which can cause your premiums to jump 10% or more, even though your actual risk hasn’t changed,” says Lokenauth.Considerations When It Comes to Insurance and RelationshipsFact is, life is dynamic, especially when two people are involved—which is why you shouldn’t view insurance as static. Insurance is built around households, ownership, and risk, all of which change over time.“Major life transitions are a natural time to review all insurance policies, confirm accurate information, and update coverage to match new circumstances,” says Ruiz.This story was produced by TheZebra and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	DHS expected to shut down as immigration talks falter Senate Democrats blocked two Republican-backed measures Thursday to keep the department open, including a short-term funding extension for two weeks as negotiations continue.
	Officials: Rock Island-Milan School District’s school resource officer returning to Rock Island Police Department amid staffing shortages Officer Thomas Danof has been serving the Rock Island-Milan School District as their school resource officer.
	Officials: Rock Island-Milan School District deputy superintendent placed on paid administrative leave The Rock Island-Milan School District Deputy Superintendent has been placed on paid administrative leave.
	Muscatine railroad crossing closes A Muscatine railroad crossing is closed for emergency repairs on a broken section of rail. According to a release from Muscatine City Hall, Stewart Rd. is closed at the GPC railroad spur crossing, just north of Dick Drake Way. The broken section was discovered early February 12. The City of Muscatine expects the crossing to [...]
	ICE conducted 37 investigations into officer misconduct in last year The disclosure from the agency's acting director came after immigration officers shot two U.S. citizens, intensifying questions about ICE officers' tactics, training and use of force.
	The 20-minute problem: Small business shipping and mailing solutions The 20-minute problem: Small business shipping and mailing solutionsBottom line up front: Small business owners are losing critical hours each week to mailing and shipping tasks—time that could be driving revenue instead. A recent survey from Stamps.com reveals that 78% of small business owners make frequent trips to mailing locations, and 68% regularly interrupt important work to handle mailing tasks.Twenty minutes doesn’t sound like much—barely enough time to grab coffee and check your email. But that’s how long the average mailing trip takes when you factor in travel, waiting, and handling time. Those minutes add up fast, creating a productivity drain that quietly undermines business growth.Small business mailing doesn’t have to be this complicated or this time-consuming. The right small business shipping and mailing solutions can transform these daily interruptions into streamlined processes that actually support your growth.The hidden cost of “quick” mailing tripsStamp.com’s August 2025 survey of 200 business owners revealed findings about the true cost of traditional mailing processes.Time investment is substantial. Half of the respondents spend one to two hours per week on small business mailing tasks. Another 50% dedicate even more time—up to more than six hours weekly. That’s time that could be spent serving customers, developing products, or growing the business.Trips are frequent and disruptive. A striking 78% of business owners make frequent trips to mailing locations. Of these, 38% go two to three times per week and 28% make weekly trips. Another 12% are making daily trips. This turns mailing into a constant business interruption.Work gets sidelined for mailing. Perhaps most telling, 68% of respondents regularly interrupt important work to handle mailing tasks—with 35% interrupting multiple times per week and 9% every single day. Stamps.com When traditional mailing becomes a problemTraditional business mailing creates a chain reaction of inefficiencies that ripple throughout your entire workday. Business owners find themselves doing the following.They plan their day around mailing deadlines rather than business priorities. Your packages have deadlines, but mailing locations have limited hours. So your schedule bends around mailing logistics instead of customer priorities—putting routine tasks ahead of the work that actually grows your business.They break their workflow momentum for what should be simple tasks. Every interruption doesn’t just cost the time spent on mailing. It also costs the additional time needed to refocus and get back into productive work mode.They make multiple trips for what could be batch processes. Business owners can’t calculate exact postage from their office or print labels on demand. So they make separate trips throughout the week.The real cost of the 20-minute problemLet’s do the math. A business owner making two to three weekly mailing trips spends about 50 hours per year on mailing logistics. At a rate of $50 per hour, those 50 hours represent $2,500 in lost productivity annually.But the real cost goes beyond those 50 hours. Every mailing interruption also costs focus time. It creates workflow delays and pulls attention away from revenue-generating work.Most small business owners (68%) regularly stop important work for mailing tasks. This creates several problems:Delayed customer responses when urgent business needs wait for mailing deadlines.Lower daily productivity from switching between strategic work and mailing tasks.Less business flexibility when your schedule follows mailing location hours, not customer needs.Missed growth chances when business development time goes to routine logistics.How mailing costs for small businesses add upBeyond time costs, traditional mailing methods often result in higher expenses. Small businesses frequently pay retail rates because they can’t access discounted rates. They also risk overpaying for postage when they can’t calculate exact costs beforehand. Stamps.com What business owners really want: Better small business mailing serviceWhen survey respondents were asked how they’d reinvest time currently spent on mailing trips, their answers revealed the true opportunity cost of the 20-minute problem. The most common responses centered around the following.Revenue-generating activities. Business owners want to focus their prime working hours on growth activities. They want to serve customers, develop new products, and build relationships that expand their business.Better work-life balance. Entrepreneurs already work long hours. Cutting routine interruptions gives more time for strategic thinking during business hours. It also creates better boundaries between work and personal time.Improved customer service. When mailing logistics don’t dictate the schedule, business owners can be more responsive to urgent customer needs. This leads to better service overall.Consistent workflow. Fewer interruptions mean deeper focus on complex projects. This also enables more productive work sessions.Small business mailing options: What’s available todayThe good news is that small business mailing options have evolved significantly. Modern solutions for small businesses address these pain points directly.Traditional mailing methods vs. modern solutionsTraditional mailing means business owners:Visit mailing locations during limited hours.Wait in line for service.Guess at mailing costs.Handle paperwork manually.Make multiple trips for different needs.Modern small business mailing solutions let you:Print labels from your desk.Access discounted rates.Know exact postage costs instantly.Schedule convenient pickups.Track shipments automatically.The best mailing solutions for small businessesWhen evaluating mailing options for small businesses, consider solutions that address the core problems: time waste, cost uncertainty, and workflow disruption.Key features to look forLabel software should make creating and printing labels simple. The best mailing software for small businesses includes:Easy address managementAutomatic rate calculationMultiple carrier optionsBatch processing capabilitiesAutomated mailing cuts boring tasks. Look for mailing automation software that:Works with your businessHandles routine mailingShows tracking updatesManages mailing suppliesCost management tools help control expenses. The best mailing service for small businesses should offer:Access to discounted ratesClear cost comparisons across carriersBulk discountsTransparent pricing without hidden feesHow to reduce mailing costs for your small businessReducing mailing expenses goes beyond finding the cheapest option for small businesses. It requires a strategic approach that considers time, efficiency, and service quality.Strategies for lower mailing costsCompare rates automatically. The best mailing rates for small businesses often vary by package size, destination, and delivery speed. Automated rate comparison ensures you always get the best price.Take advantage of bulk discounts. Many companies offer volume discounts. Batching shipments can help you reach these thresholds.Use automation. Automated mailing cuts work costs and reduces mistakes. This lowers your costs overall.Getting affordable small business shipping and mailing solutionsThe transition to modern mailing solutions doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here’s how to get started.Step 1: Assess your current mailing needsCalculate how much time you currently spend on mailing tasks. Include travel time, waiting time, and administrative work. Also, review your current mailing costs and identify areas for improvement.Step 2: Research small business mailing suppliesModern mailing solutions often include access to discounted mailing supplies. This can include shipping boxes, labels, stamps, and packaging materials.Step 3: Choose the right label maker softwareLook for mailing label software that:Works with your businessSupports many carriersCompares rates easilyTracks packagesThe best mailing label generator software should make creating professional labels simple and fast.Step 4: Set up automationStart with basic mailing automation features:Automatic address validationDefault mailing preferencesBatch label printingAutomatic tracking notificationsAs you become comfortable with these features, you can add more advanced automation.The best mailing option for small businesses: Making the right choiceThe best company for a small business depends on your specific needs. Consider your needs:Package volume and frequencySpeed requirementsBudget limitsWhere you ship (local, national, international)How it works with your businessMulticarrier solutionsRather than choosing a single carrier, many small businesses benefit from multicarrier solutions. These provide access to multiple companies through one platform.Benefits include:Automatic rate comparisonService redundancyFlexible mailing optionsBetter negotiating powerThe ROI of small business shipping and mailing solutionsInvesting in small business shipping and mailing solutions provides measurable returns through the following.:Time savings. Getting back two to four hours per week helps right away. You can use this time to make money.Cost cuts. Better rates often pay for mailing software in the first month.Better customer service. Fast, reliable mail makes customers happy. They come back for more.Business growth. Automated systems grow with your business. You don’t need more staff.Calculating your potential savingsTo estimate your ROI, add up:Time spent on mailing (hours per week multiplied by what your time is worth)Rate savings (current costs vs. better rates)Better workflow (fewer errors, faster work)Growth time (time used to build your business)Getting started: How to calculate mailing costsBefore choosing a mailing solution, understand your current costs. This includes both direct mailing expenses and hidden costs like time and opportunity costs.Direct mailing costsPostage and shipping feesPackaging materialsTransportation to mailing locationsStorage for suppliesHidden costsTime on mailing tasksLess work done due to stopsLost business chancesPoor customer service due to shipping delaysFuture cost projectionsConsider how your mailing needs might change as your business grows. The best solution for small businesses should scale with your needs without requiring complete system changes.Taking action: Solving your 20-minute problemThe 20-minute problem isn’t just about mailing inefficiency—it’s about business owners spending their most valuable resource on tasks that technology can handle more efficiently.Modern mailing products and services make it possible to handle all your mailing needs without leaving your office. This transforms mailing from a business interruption into a seamless part of your daily operations.When you can print postage, schedule pickups, and track deliveries from your office, you get those hours back. You can respond to customers faster. You can build new products. You can think about your business without interruptions.This story was produced by Stamps.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What happens when rent is sent to collections? What happens when rent is sent to collections?When it comes to rent collection, every missed rent payment puts landlords in a tight position. You’re forced to cut into your bottom line and cover expenses out of pocket, all while hoping tenants pay their past-due balance. But if they don’t, what options do you have? TurboTenant takes a clear, realistic look at rent debt collection so you can decide your next move with confidence, not frustration.Approaching a collection agency for unpaid rent may feel like a last resort. It’s the breaking point where your patience runs out, you’ve taken legal action, and your relationship with the tenant changes. And while this scenario is common, the rental debt collection process is often misunderstood. Many landlords have questions, such as:What actually happens when you send rent to collections?How does it affect the tenant?What are your chances of getting paid?What steps should you take before involving a collection agency?This guide answers these questions and more. Learn everything you need to know about rent collection agencies for landlords, including when to use one, what the process looks like, legal considerations, and strategies to avoid going to collections in the first place. Let’s get started.Rent Debt Collection Key InsightsHere’s a quick overview of what all landlords should know about taking unpaid rent to a collections agency:Landlords can send rent to collections if tenants fail to pay after making multiple collection attempts.Tenants can dispute the debt within 30 days of an agency’s contact.Avoid rent collection headaches with rent collection software that provides communication tools, automated late-payment reminders, and clear financial tracking.Let’s get into the details.Understanding Rental Debt CollectionWhen tenants don’t pay their rent, landlords can contact a debt collection agency for assistance. The collection agency helps landlords recoup their losses by collecting outstanding amounts from tenants. Here’s how it works.To prompt tenants to take action, the agency typically reports the outstanding balance to the three major credit bureaus — TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. Then, each credit bureau sends the tenants a letter notifying them about their outstanding balance. Once a debt enters collections, credit bureaus typically keep it on a tenant’s credit report for up to seven years.The collections process helps motivate tenants to pay their outstanding debt. If the tenant pays, most agencies deduct a commission and remit the balance to the landlord. In most cases, the fee is between 25% and 50% of the balance collected.Keep in Mind: Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), tenants have 30 days to dispute a debt with a collection agency. To do so, they must send a written request to the agency asking them to validate the debt (15 U.S.C. § 1692g).When tenants request validation, you must wait until the agency verifies the debt before you can reclaim the unpaid rent. If the agency can’t verify the debt, you lose your claim to collection.At this point, you should pursue other options, such as filing a small-claims lawsuit or negotiating a payment plan directly with the tenant.The Rent Debt Collection Process: A Step-by-Step GuideBecause reporting a tenant’s unpaid balance requires sending an official notice, rental laws apply. Each state has its own legal guidelines.Some states, such as Washington (Wash. Rev. Code § 59.18.170) and New York (N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 238-A(2)), mandate grace periods. Other jurisdictions have specific notice requirements when tenants fail to pay rent. Here are a few examples to illustrate just how different each state legislates the process.California: State law requires landlords to send tenants a written three-day notice to pay or quit (Cal. Civ. Code § 1161).Florida: Landlords must give the tenant a written three-day notice to pay or quit before taking further action (Fla. Stat. § 83.56).Texas: Landlords must provide tenants with a three-day notice to pay or quit before escalating the matter (Tex. Prop. Code § 24.005).Illinois: State law requires landlords to send tenants a five-day notice to pay or quit (735 Ill. Comp. Stat. 5/9-209).Ohio: Landlords must give tenants a three-day notice to pay or vacate (Ohio Rev. Code § 5321.07).New Jersey: State law only requires landlords to provide formal notice if the tenant is in federally subsidized housing (N.J. Stat. § 2A:18-61.1).Washington: Landlords must give tenants a 14-day notice to pay or vacate (Wash. Rev. Code § 59.12.030).Georgia: Landlords must give them a three-day notice to pay or quit before taking legal action (Ga. Code § 44-7-50).Always check your local rules or speak with a trusted legal professional if you have specific questions.Pro Tip: Landlords can use property management software to access rent debt collection tools, including digital payments and automated late fees, that comply with their state’s regulations.While each state has its own legal requirements, the following four steps cover most aspects of a compliant rent debt collection process.Step 1: Provide a Written Notice About Past-Due RentOnce rent is late, your first step is to document it. Send your tenant a written notice, including:A statement that rent is past due.The total amount they owe.The due date.A summary of late fees or late payment penalties outlined in your lease.By providing written notice, you create a paper trail. If you have to escalate the issue to eviction or collections, you’ll need detailed documentation showing that you notified the tenant.As mentioned, remember to check your state’s law on grace periods to keep your process compliant.Step 2: Give the Tenant a Pay or Quit NoticeIf tenants fail to pay by the due date, your next step is to send them a formal pay or quit notice. The official notice gives tenants a specified period to pay the rent in full or vacate the property. You’ll need to complete this step to proceed with eviction or collections later, if needed.As outlined above, many states have laws governing this step, so check your local regulations.Step 3: Begin the Eviction ProceedingsIf you reach the pay or quit notice deadline and the tenant still hasn’t paid, you can file for eviction through your local court system.The eviction process doesn’t guarantee you’ll recover the unpaid rent, but it does strengthen your position if you send the debt to collections. Many agencies require proof of eviction or a court judgment before accepting rent debt.Step 4: Contact Rent Debt CollectorsAt this point, you can submit the unpaid rent to a collection agency. Agencies typically try to recover the balance by reporting it to credit bureaus.If tenants take action to resolve the issue, they usually pay the collection agency directly. The agency forwards the funds to you, minus any fees or commission for the rent debt collection process.What Collection Agencies Expect from LandlordsJust because you submit a rent debt for a single-family home or apartment property doesn’t mean they’ll accept it.Today’s agencies prefer to work with landlords who provide clean, well-documented files and verifiable records. In most cases, organized, accurate accounts move faster and have higher recovery rates.To increase your chances of reclaiming your lost funds, provide the following to the collection agency:Digital ledgers showing rent payment records and late fees.Timestamped notices proving you formally informed the tenant about the past-due rent.Evidence of lease compliance showing you met all of your contractual obligations.Supporting documentation, including the signed lease agreement, eviction documents, and court records.Meticulous recordkeeping and cloud-based software enable the agency to perform its work quickly and efficiently.Impact of Collections on the TenantNo tenant wants to deal with the ramifications of having a debt sent to collections, which include:Negative impact on credit historyLowered credit scoreReduced loan eligibilityBeyond the financial hit, the process can impact a tenant’s rental reputation. Tenant screening reports usually list debt in collections, making it difficult for renters to qualify for their next property. The record can follow them for up to seven years, which is a long time for a renter to contend with. So, many will choose to pay it to avoid the record hanging over their heads.Rights and Protections for TenantsThe Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects tenants by governing how rent debt collectors pursue unpaid balances. Here’s what you need to know:Collection agencies can’t misrepresent debts, threaten debtors, or use unfair practices (15 U.S.C. § 1692e-1692f).As mentioned, tenants have the right to dispute a debt within 30 days (15 U.S.C. § 1692g). Once tenants request verification, the agency must cease all collection efforts until the situation is verified.Federal law prohibits all forms of harassment. Tenants have the right to request specific forms of contact (such as email or phone call), and they can pursue legal remedies if the agency doesn’t comply (15 U.S.C. § 1692c-1692k).If tenants feel the collector is violating these federal guidelines, they can contact a lawyer.How Tenants Can Avoid Having Rent Sent to CollectionsAs a tenant, you can avoid the headaches of having landlords send rent debt to collections by paying on time or communicating transparently.If you can’t make this month’s rent payment in full, reach out to your landlord in advance. They may be willing to set up a payment plan or accept a partial amount.Remember: If your landlord refers your debt to collections but you believe it’s invalid, contact the agency and request verification. Consider consulting a legal expert for more support.Landlord’s Perspective: Sending Rent to CollectionsIn a perfect world, your tenants pay rent in full and on time every month. Most tenants have valid reasons for falling behind on their payments. And you probably don’t want to go through the rent debt collection process or pay the agency’s commission fee.But when communications fail, and they still haven’t paid, turning to collections helps you protect your investment. It’s not personal — it’s practical, and the process can help you mitigate losses and keep your business on the right track.This story was produced by TurboTenant and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Man killed after being struck by vehicle on Rockingham Road in Davenport A 32-year-old man died after being struck by a vehicle Wednesday night on Rockingham Road in Davenport, according to police.
	Illinois GOP Senate candidates take stage in first major debate Don Tracy, Jeannie Evans and Casey Chlebek pitched themselves as best positioned to flip a Senate seat Democrats have held since 1985.
	How market research solves the 91% retail dissatisfaction rate How market research solves the 91% retail dissatisfaction rateFor retailers attempting to capitalize on the persistent preference for physical storefronts, the gap between consumer expectations and operational reality has reached a critical fracture point. While the majority of shoppers still favor brick-and-mortar environments for purchasing decisions, 2024 research from the IBM Institute for Business Value revealed a stark disparity: Only 9% of consumers reported being satisfied with the current in-store experience.The numbers tell a clear story. Even in the more convenient context of online ordering, satisfaction levels remained stagnant at 14%. As digital integration raises the bar for personalization, physical retail is struggling with friction points—specifically inventory transparency and checkout velocity—that actively erode brand loyalty.In this analysis, The Barcode Group evaluates the data driving this dissatisfaction and how high-level market research is being deployed to reclaim the competitive advantage. The Barcode Group What’s Wrong With Retail Experiences?That aforementioned IBM study pinpoints a few other interesting facts about the state of retail experiences, especially in-store.First and foremost, brick-and-mortar retail retains the upper hand in terms of customer preference, with 73% of respondents citing in-person visits as their choice for making buying decisions and purchases. The utilization of physical space is often undermined by operational friction. One in 4 shoppers cites sluggish checkout times as a primary deterrent to in-store retail.Next, there’s the lack of digital integration. Sixty-five percent of people said they turn to their smartphones to enhance the in-store shopping experience, in part because they feel there isn't enough product information available in most physical retail environments.Finally, the often impersonal experience that’s associated with brick-and-mortar stores is increasingly under fire. Modern consumers are used to receiving a totally tailored approach to retail in an e-commerce context. Replicating this in-store requires increased digital integration and a better understanding of what individual customers actually want.What Else is Hurting Sales?Dialing into the specifics of what’s going wrong in brick-and-mortar outlets requires a shift to focus on data derived from a 2025 study from IHL Group. Here, retailers, rather than consumers, were surveyed, with 67% reporting that inventory inaccuracies hurt their relationships with customers on a daily or weekly basis.Consumer brand engagement is also strained by this issue, with 47% citing inventory inaccuracies as a stumbling block here. The same proportion said this caused customer dissatisfaction, while half said sales took a hit as a result.Grouped under the category of shelf issues, the sales being lost because products are either not in their proper place or out of stock due to a miscalculation of demand, reveal an underlying complication. Consumers want to make purchases, but are being let down by store inventory, both in terms of item availability and the product information issue covered earlier.Is Market Research the Solution?The idea of applying market research to address imperfections in the retail experience is not novel, but the optimal approach has evolved with changing consumer expectations.Conducting high-level market research can help proactively identify shelf issues, rather than allowing lost sales and disgruntled customers to result from inventory gaps and inaccuracies. This process can center on the human element rather than pure data analysis. Retailers benefit from understanding why customers pick up products in the first place, why they might return an item to the shelf without buying it, and how to prevent this in the future.In addition to solving short-term sales issues, market research helps build trust, leading to long-term loyalty among an increasingly fickle consumer base. When retailers can anticipate the needs and expectations of customers, and align their shelving setup to suit what the research tells them, people who have previously been dissatisfied with in-store experiences will no longer feel ignored. It’s effectively a method of delivering a sense of personalization to the brick-and-mortar sphere, keeping individual shoppers engaged even if top-level data has been put to work to suss out their desires.What Retailers Can Do NextIndustry data shows us that the vast majority of retailers are failing their consumers, losing sales and trust in the process. Deep, human-centered market research may help address the facets of in-store experiences that frustrate today’s buyers, and a human-oriented approach could be helpful.Inventory inaccuracies and shelf issues that come with them won’t be solved instantly by market research. However, it provides a base of understanding on which companies can build better experiences in the months and years to come, even with online shopping and digitization holding sway over more of the sector.This story was produced by The Barcode Group and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Why do I feel nauseous when I’m hungry? Why do I feel nauseous when I’m hungry?Feeling nauseous when hungry is a common experience that many people encounter, yet it can be confusing and uncomfortable. This sensation often arises from the complex interactions between your digestive system, hormones, and brain signals. Understanding why this happens can help you manage symptoms better and know when to seek medical advice. In this article, telehealth platform Doctronic explores the reasons behind hunger-induced nausea and its implications for your health.Key TakeawaysEmpty stomachs produce excess gastric acid with pH levels as low as 1.5-2.0, which irritates the stomach lining when not buffered by food, creating that queasy feeling.Ghrelin, the "hunger hormone," peaks every three to four hours and can trigger nausea in sensitive individuals, especially when combined with blood glucose levels dropping below 70 mg/dL.Eating small meals every three to four hours maintains stable blood sugar and prevents acid buildup—waiting longer than five to six hours between meals significantly increases nausea risk.Certain medications like NSAIDs, antibiotics, and iron supplements can worsen symptoms by increasing stomach acid production or slowing gastric emptying.Persistent symptoms lasting more than two to three days may indicate gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gastroparesis, particularly if accompanied by vomiting, weight loss, or severe abdominal pain.What Causes Nausea When You’re Hungry?Hunger and nausea might seem like unrelated sensations, but they are closely linked through your body’s physiological responses. When your stomach is empty, several processes can trigger that queasy feeling.1. Stomach Acid and Empty StomachYour stomach continuously produces acid to digest food. When you haven’t eaten for a while, this acid can build up and irritate the lining of your stomach, leading to discomfort and nausea. This is especially common if you skip meals or fast for extended periods. The acid has nothing to digest, so it can start to cause a burning sensation and nausea. In addition to the discomfort, the increased acidity can also lead to other symptoms, such as bloating or a feeling of fullness, even when the stomach is empty. This is your body’s way of signaling that it’s time to refuel, and ignoring these signals can lead to more severe gastrointestinal issues over time.2. Hormonal Signals and Blood Sugar LevelsWhen you’re hungry, your blood sugar levels drop. Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can trigger nausea as your body signals that it needs energy. Additionally, hunger hormones like ghrelin increase, stimulating your appetite but sometimes also causing nausea. These hormonal changes prepare your body to seek food, but they can make you feel queasy in the meantime. Furthermore, the interplay between these hormones and your body’s metabolic processes can lead to irritability and fatigue, making it even more important to listen to your body’s hunger cues. Eating small, balanced meals throughout the day can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent the uncomfortable sensations associated with hunger.3. Delayed Gastric EmptyingIn some cases, the stomach empties more slowly than usual, which can cause nausea when you’re hungry. This condition, known as gastroparesis, means food stays longer in the stomach, and when it’s empty, the imbalance of stomach acid and digestive juices can cause nausea. While less common, it’s a medical condition worth knowing about if nausea when hungry is frequent and severe. Symptoms of gastroparesis can include not only nausea but also vomiting and a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount of food. If you suspect that you might have this condition, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management. Understanding the underlying causes of your symptoms can lead to more effective treatment and a better quality of life.When Is Hunger-Related Nausea a Sign of Something More Serious?Most people experience mild nausea when hungry occasionally, but persistent or severe nausea can indicate underlying health issues. Recognizing when to seek medical advice is crucial for your well-being.1. Gastrointestinal DisordersConditions like gastritis, ulcers, or acid reflux can cause nausea related to hunger. These disorders involve inflammation or damage to the stomach lining, making the acid buildup more painful and nauseating. If your nausea is accompanied by stomach pain, vomiting, or weight loss, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, chronic gastrointestinal issues can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, which may exacerbate feelings of nausea and contribute to a cycle of discomfort. Keeping a food diary may help identify specific triggers, allowing for better management of symptoms and dietary adjustments.2. Blood Sugar DisordersPeople with diabetes or other blood sugar regulation problems may experience nausea when hungry due to fluctuating glucose levels. Hypoglycemia can cause dizziness, sweating, and nausea, which require prompt management to avoid complications. Individuals with these conditions need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and maintain a consistent eating schedule. Consuming small, balanced meals throughout the day can help stabilize glucose levels and minimize the risk of nausea. Moreover, understanding the role of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in blood sugar regulation can empower individuals to make healthier food choices.3. Eating Disorders and Psychological FactorsSometimes, nausea when hungry can be linked to eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, or stress and anxiety. The brain-gut connection is powerful, and emotional distress can manifest as physical symptoms, including nausea. In such cases, addressing the psychological aspects through therapy or counseling can be beneficial. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown promise in treating eating disorders, helping individuals develop healthier relationships with food and body image. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques can alleviate anxiety, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of hunger-related nausea.How to Manage and Prevent Nausea When HungryFortunately, there are practical steps you can take to reduce or prevent nausea caused by hunger. These strategies focus on stabilizing your blood sugar and protecting your stomach lining.1. Eat Small, Frequent MealsInstead of waiting long periods between meals, try eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. This approach keeps your stomach from becoming too empty and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, reducing the likelihood of nausea.2. Choose Balanced FoodsIncorporate a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in your meals. Protein and fats slow digestion, which helps prevent rapid drops in blood sugar. Complex carbohydrates like whole grains provide sustained energy, keeping hunger and nausea at bay.3. Stay HydratedDehydration can worsen nausea, so drinking water regularly is important. Sometimes, sipping on clear fluids or herbal teas can soothe your stomach and reduce queasiness.4. Avoid IrritantsLimit foods and drinks that can irritate your stomach lining, such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic beverages. These can exacerbate acid buildup and nausea when your stomach is empty.When to Seek Urgent Medical CareWhile most hunger-related nausea is manageable at home or with telehealth support, some symptoms require immediate attention. Seek urgent care if you experience:Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomitingSigns of dehydration, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or dark urineBlood in vomit or stoolConfusion, weakness, or faintingIn such cases, visiting an emergency room or urgent care center is necessary.Understanding Hunger-Related Nausea for Better HealthNausea when hungry is a common but often misunderstood symptom. It usually results from stomach acid irritation, hormonal changes, or blood sugar fluctuations. While occasional nausea is normal, persistent or severe symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Managing your diet, eating habits, and hydration can help reduce discomfort.The Bottom LineThe key is preventing acid buildup and hormonal spikes through consistent meal timing and avoiding stomach irritants like caffeine on an empty stomach. Small, protein-rich snacks every few hours work better than waiting for intense hunger to develop.This story was produced by Doctronic and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Cheapest gas stations in every state Feb. 12, 2026 jittawit21 // Shutterstock Cheapest gas stations in every state Feb. 12, 2026 Anyone who drives a car understands the sting of having to fill up their tank and pulling into the gas station, only to discover that gas prices have skyrocketed. Paying extra for gas means you have less to spend on other things, which, over time, can really put a crimp in your budget.Cheap Insurance explored some of the reasons behind major changes in gas prices, and compiled a list of the cheapest gas stations in every state using data from Gas Buddy.Gas prices fluctuate based on several factors, including the cost of the key ingredient, crude oil, as well as the available supply and demand for gasoline. If the price of oil rises, a major refinery goes offline, or more drivers are hitting the road, for example, then the cost will increase.In the first half of 2022, a unique confluence of events led to a surge in gas prices. The increased demand stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and a slowdown in oil production all contributed to a national all-time high of $4.93 per gallon on average in June 2022.Seasons also affect gas prices. Demand tends to drop in winter, but the cost also falls because gas stations switch to a different blend of gasoline that's optimal for lower temperatures—and has cheaper ingredients.Location also matters. The South and Midwest tend to have the lowest gas prices, while the West, including Hawai'i, has the highest. Californians, in particular, pay more for gas on average than any other state. That's because of its high state excise taxes; its isolation from the country's major pipelines, which causes supply issues; and its requirements that mandate a more environmentally friendly blend of gas that costs more to produce and adds to the price per gallon.No matter where you live, read on to see if you can get a deal on gas near you.Alabama#1. Love's Travel Stop (8400 County Farm Rd, Irvington): $2.28#2. Alabama National Guard (1730 Cong W L Dickinson Dr, Montgomery): $2.29#3. Fletcher Smith (19415 N 3rd St, Citronelle): $2.30Alaska#1. Costco (48 College Rd, Fairbanks): $2.99#2. Holiday (575 Johansen Expressway, Fairbanks): $3.05#3. Speedway (2110 Peger Rd, Fairbanks): $3.14Arizona#1. ARCO (802 W Speedway Blvd, Tucson): $2.35#2. Fastrip (1620 N Pinal Ave, Casa Grande): $2.37#3. Costco (1650 E Tucson Marketplace Blvd, Tucson): $2.39Arkansas#1. Sam's Club (7700 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith): $2.16#2. Mighty Market (104 S Broadview St, Greenbrier): $2.17#2. Harps (15 N Broadview St, Greenbrier): $2.17California#1. Fastrip (6401 S H St, Bakersfield): $3.55#1. Fastrip (13710 Calimesa Blvd, Yucaipa): $3.55#1. Fastrip (345 S China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest): $3.55Colorado#1. Shell (6200 S Santa Fe Dr, Littleton): $2.13#1. QuikTrip (2338 W Belleview Ave, Littleton): $2.13#1. Shell (2715 S Santa Fe Dr, Englewood): $2.13Connecticut#1. The Road Runner (575 Main St, Ansonia): $2.49#2. CITGO (198 Leavenworth Rd, Shelton): $2.55#3. BJ's (75 Spring St, Southington): $2.56Delaware#1. Costco (900 Center Blvd S, Newark): $2.59#1. BP (1 JAY DR, New Castle): $2.59#1. BJ's (2131 Kirkwood Hwy, Elsmere): $2.59Florida#1. VP Racing Fuels (4105 US-231, Panama City): $2.40#2. Dodge's Store (1 Eglin Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach): $2.45#3. Tom Thumb (1096 Beal Pkwy NW, Fort Walton Beach): $2.46Georgia#1. Costco (100 Cobb Pkwy, Ringgold): $2.19#2. Shell (301 GA-515, Blairsville): $2.27#3. Murphy USA (129 Alabama Rd, Adel): $2.29Hawaii#1. Costco (94-1331 Ka Uka Blvd, Waipio): $3.59#1. AAFES (500 Kolekole Ave, Schofield Barracks): $3.59#1. AAFES (Beaver St, Schofield Barracks): $3.59Idaho#1. Chevron (6161Bannock Hwy, Pocatello): $2.54#2. Costco (2051 S Cole Rd, Boise): $2.56#3. Maverik (3080 South Five Mile Road, Boise): $2.58Illinois#1. Love's Travel Stop (3020 E 8th Rd, Utica): $2.39#1. Love's Travel Stop (1001 W Walnut St, Oglesby): $2.39#1. Shell (5247 Trompeter Rd, Peru): $2.39Indiana#1. BP (804 E Markland Ave, Kokomo): $2.23#1. Mobil (1300 W Markland St, Kokomo): $2.23#3. BP (2020 S Washington St, Kokomo): $2.24Iowa#1. Knoxville FAST STOP Express (1101 N Lincoln St, Knoxville): $1.89#2. Murphy USA (906 W. Bell Ave., Knoxville): $1.94#2. Casey's (1201 E Main St, Knoxville): $1.94Kansas#1. Sam's Club (3010 Larue St, Garden City): $1.96#2. Love's Travel Stop (1500 N Jones Ave, Holcomb): $2.02#2. Love's Country Stores (3285 E US-50, Garden City): $2.02Kentucky#1. Sam's Club (3200 Ken Bale Blvd, Bowling Green): $2.14#2. Sam's Club (5240 Frederica St, Owensboro): $2.19#3. BP (3205 Plano Rd, Bowling Green): $2.23Louisiana#1. Murphy USA (14251 Coursey Blvd., Baton Rouge): $2.08#1. Murphy USA (10250 Sullivan Rd., Baton Rouge): $2.08#1. Murphy Express (12912 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge): $2.08Maryland#1. Sam's Club (5702 Baltimore National Pike, Catonsville): $2.46#2. 7-Eleven (5809 Deale Churchton Rd, Deale): $2.49#3. Carroll Motor Fuels (12600 Twinbrook Pkwy, Rockville): $2.53Massachusetts#1. Sal's (385 S Franklin St, Holbrook): $2.42#2. Mobil (971 Boston-Providence Tpke, Norwood): $2.45#3. New World (359 Bedford St, Whitman): $2.47Michigan#1. Sunoco (3017 20 Mile Rd, Barryton): $2.19#2. Quality Car Wash & Marathon (1931 E Sherman Blvd, Muskegon): $2.26#3. SNK (8091 E 8 Mile Rd, Warren): $2.33Minnesota#1. BP (208 1st NE, Sartell): $2.19#2. BP (230 Pine Cone Rd, Sartell): $2.26#3. Stop N Go (2715 Clearwater Rd, St Cloud): $2.28Mississippi#1. Sam's Club (715 Bonita Dr, Meridian): $2.00#2. Walmart (3310-B MS-39, Meridian): $2.09#3. CEFCO (1303 Roebuck Dr, Meridian): $2.15Missouri#1. Sam's Club (3660 E Sunshine St, Springfield): $2.09#1. Buc-ee's (3284 N Beaver Road, Springfield): $2.09#3. Sam's Club (3536 Hammons Blvd, Joplin): $2.11Montana#1. Maverik (211 E 1st Ave, Plentywood): $2.52#2. Costco (3220 N Reserve St, Missoula): $2.54#3. Cenex (1803 N Merrill Ave , Glendive): $2.56Nebraska#1. Love's Travel Stop (1300 W Monroe Ave, Norfolk): $2.18#1. Casey's (1001 Veterans Ave, Stanton): $2.18#1. Casey's (1020 S 13th St, Norfolk): $2.18Nevada#1. Pilot (1200 W Wendover Blvd, West Wendover): $2.57#2. Love's Travel Stop (2001 NV-766, Carlin): $2.58#2. One9 Fuel Stop (791 10th St, Carlin): $2.58New Hampshire#1. Bosco Bell (130 Suncook Valley Rd, Barnstead): $2.35#2. BJ's (1801 Woodbury Ave, Portsmouth): $2.47#3. Monster gas North (1010 US Highway 1 Byp, Portsmouth): $2.49New Jersey#1. Delta (53 Lakeside Blvd, Hopatcong): $2.49#2. Exxon (1290 Anderson Ave, Fort Lee): $2.51#2. Conoco (1196 Anderson Ave, Fort Lee): $2.51New Mexico#1. Warrior Fuel 2 (1005 US-550, Bernalillo): $2.12#2. Valero (2401 Rio Rancho Dr SE, Rio Rancho): $2.13#3. Avanyu Travel Plaza (618 N Riverside Dr, Española): $2.14New York#1. Mike's Trading Post (2342 Printup Rd, Sanborn): $2.35#2. Totem Pole Smoke & Gas (1031 Ledge Rd, Basom): $2.40#2. Western Door (379 Martin Rd, Akron): $2.40North Carolina#1. Mobil (2853 N Center St, Hickory): $2.35#2. Murphy USA (1453 Sunset Ave., Clinton): $2.37#2. Murphy USA (102 Columbus Corners Dr., Whiteville): $2.37North Dakota#1. Sam's Club (2501 32nd Ave S, Grand Forks): $2.22#2. Costco (750 23rd Ave E, West Fargo): $2.25#2. Sam's Club (4831 13th Ave S, Fargo): $2.25Ohio#1. Gold Star Gas (701 W North St, Lima): $2.24#1. MAPCO (3634 Massillon Rd, Green): $2.24#3. Amoco (6004 N Dixie Dr, Dayton): $2.26Oklahoma#1. Sam's Club (6521 SE 29th St , Midwest City): $1.89#2. VP Racing Fuels (1601 S Douglas Blvd, Midwest City): $1.95#2. Walmart (5425 Tinker Diagonal, Del City): $1.95Oregon#1. Town Pump (330 Ivy St, Junction City): $2.69#2. Love's Travel Stop (1678 SE US-97, Madras): $2.99#2. Love's Travel Stop (1041 NW Washington Ave, Ontario): $2.99Pennsylvania#1. Rutter's (641 Waltz Mill Rd, Ruffs Dale): $2.65#1. Sheetz (205 N Center Ave, New Stanton): $2.65#1. GetGo (119 Bair Blvd, New Stanton): $2.65Rhode Island#1. BJ's (1450 Hartford Ave, Johnston): $2.55#2. Roadrunner (2862 Hartford Ave, Johnston): $2.57#3. American Dream of Tiverton (400 Main Rd, Tiverton): $2.59South Carolina#1. Dodge's Store (1801 Old Edisto Dr, Orangeburg): $2.22#2. Murphy USA (2737 North Road, Orangeburg): $2.24#3. Love's Travel Stop (2210 US-601 N, Pageland): $2.26South Dakota#1. Goode To Go (1301 River Dr, North Sioux City): $2.16#1. Clark (1312 River Dr, North Sioux City): $2.16#3. Sinclair (5100 N Cliff Ave, Sioux Falls): $2.24Tennessee#1. Murphy USA (145 Walton Dr, Waverly): $2.09#2. Exxon (265 Dover Rd, Clarksville): $2.15#2. Walmart (216 Dover Rd, Clarksville): $2.15Texas#1. Walmart (22850 Morton Ranch Rd, Katy): $1.89#1. Quick Trip (23169 Morton Ranch Rd, Katy): $1.89#3. Malia Food Mart (550 FM1959, Houston): $1.96Utah#1. 76 (885 S Park Ave, Fillmore): $2.25#2. Costco (11100 S Auto Mall Dr, Sandy): $2.39#2. Costco (3571 W South Jordan Pkwy, South Jordan): $2.39Vermont#1. 305 South (305 South St, Bennington): $2.64#2. CITGO (510 South St, Bennington): $2.65#2. Cumberland Farms (111 Northside Dr, Bennington): $2.65Virginia#1. Sam's Club (215 Piedmont Pl, Danville): $2.38#2. Valero (5611 Williamson Rd NW, Roanoke): $2.39#3. Crown (7610 Lee Hwy, Falls Church): $2.44Washington#1. Costco (301 5th St, Clarkston): $2.86#2. 76 (61 W Wapato Rd, Wapato): $2.95#2. Wheelers Smoke N Gas (7453 Sunnyside Mabton Hwy, Mabton): $2.95West Virginia#1. Sam's Club (1100 Grand Central Ave, Vienna): $2.25#2. Walmart (2900 Pike St, Parkersburg): $2.32#3. Speedway (2893 Pike St, Parkersburg ): $2.33Wisconsin#1. Costco (443 Pewaukee Rd, Pewaukee): $2.25#1. Costco (W162N9235 Pershing Ave, Menomonee Falls): $2.25#1. Costco (7707 94th Ave, Pleasant Prairie): $2.25Wyoming#1. Loaf 'N Jug (1325 Bridger Dr, Green River): $2.19#2. Love's Travel Stop (190 US-16 E, Buffalo): $2.23#2. Maverik (109 N Main St, Buffalo): $2.23This story was produced by CheapInsurance.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Pedestrian dies in after being struck by vehicle in Davenport on Wednesday Police officers responded to Rockingham Road and West River Drive at about 7:09 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11.
	Rock Island police to pull school resource officer from RIHS amid staffing issues The Rock Island Police Department said police will conduct extra patrols and walk-throughs at the high school.
	1 dead in Davenport pedestrian/vehicle crash A pedestrian is dead after an incident with a motor vehicle in Davenport last night. A news release from the Davenport Police Department says Davenport Police, Fire and Medic EMS responded to the area of Rockingham Road and West River Drive on February 11 at about 7:09 p.m. in reference to a motor vehicle accident [...]
	Police: Man dies after being hit by vehicle A man has died after being hit by a vehicle Wednesday night, Davenport Police said.
	5 hidden sales tax traps every e-commerce CFO should watch for going into 2026 5 hidden sales tax traps every e-commerce CFO should watch for going into 2026Running an e-commerce business means juggling more than just margins and customer acquisition. Underneath the balance sheet, all CFOs need to be aware of the complex state and local tax regulations that shift with workforce trends, product types, and evolving legislation.Sales tax risks can lurk in unexpected places — remote employee locations, usage-based pricing models, or something as simple as ambiguous definitions around digital goods. In addition, shipping terms and title transfer language can directly affect sales tax treatment in many states. Whether a contract specifies FOB origin vs. FOB destination, when title transfers, and how shipping charges are stated on invoices can all influence where a transaction is deemed to occur for tax purposes. Similarly, working with online influencers or affiliate marketers can trigger “affiliate nexus” in states with affiliate nexus laws, even if the company has no physical presence there. These relationships can create a sales tax collection obligation simply by driving in-state referrals or commissions.Inconsistent or ambiguous shipping terms across contracts and invoices can unintentionally shift tax liability or create exposure in states where the business did not expect to collect tax. Missing one trap can mean your company is on the hook for steep audit liabilities or back taxes. It’s also important to remember that back taxes rarely stop at the tax owed. States routinely assess penalties and interest on unpaid sales tax, which can significantly increase total liability over time. In some cases, penalties alone can rival the original tax due, turning what seemed like a manageable oversight into a material financial risk.Anrok deep dives into the common pitfalls that today’s average e-commerce CFO needs to watch out for to compile five hidden risks.The list: 5 hidden risks and how to fix themBy learning the common sales tax risks your organization may face, you can be better prepared to react appropriately to protect your business:1. The "remote employee" nexus trapThe first trap involves remote workers. Any remote employees you have can instantly create a physical-presence nexus in their home states, as outlined by the global cloud-based human capital management provider ADP, even if your company is below certain economic thresholds. This means that just a single worker can trigger multi-state registration, collection, and audit exposure. The best way to stay ahead of this trap is to maintain a live map of all employee locations, assess a new nexus before hiring into that state, and register proactively when a new presence is created.2. The usage-based pricing paradoxUsage-based or consumption-driven pricing can cause complications, blurring whether a charge is for SaaS, a taxable service, a digital good, a bundled transaction, or something else entirely. As states continue to expand the taxability of services and digital products, misclassifying usage fees can lead to under-collection issues. Misclassification can also work in the opposite direction, causing businesses to collect and remit sales tax when it is not actually owed, potentially creating customer refund obligations and compliance challenges. To avoid this, break down every charge type and ensure it aligns with state taxability rules. While many businesses choose to bundle fees to avoid exposing granular pricing details to customers, bundling can make it harder to accurately determine the taxability of each component. You should also reevaluate tax treatment whenever pricing models or billing structures change. Even small changes to how usage is measured or billed can have an impact on sales tax obligations.3. The marketplace facilitator "false security"Marketplace facilitator laws shift sales-tax collection onto platforms, but coverage will vary by state and product type. Facilitator errors, miscategorization, or incomplete reporting can still leave sellers exposed during audits. In some states, marketplace facilitators are also required to report marketplace sales on their own sales tax returns and then take a specific deduction for those marketplace transactions, making accurate reporting and reconciliation even more critical. You should confirm facilitator responsibilities in writing, reconcile platform reports with your own sales data, and verify product tax codes independently. Additionally, certain jurisdictions require sellers to maintain specific forms or documentation to substantiate the marketplace seller–marketplace facilitator relationship, and failure to retain these records can increase audit risk even when the facilitator is collecting the tax.4. The "zombie" exemption certificateOutdated, expired, or incomplete exemption certificates remain one of the most common audit triggers. If a valid certificate is not held on file, states will treat the sale as taxable, typically retroactively, regardless of customer claims. Additional risk can arise when an exempt customer is acquired or undergoes a legal entity change. In these cases, exemption certificates may need to be updated to reflect the new entity, even if the acquiring company is also exempt. Centralizing certificate management, validating completeness, correctness, and expiration dates, and implementing automated renewal workflows can help put a stop to this issue early on. If the acquiring entity is not exempt, previously valid certificates may no longer apply, yet seller systems may continue exempting transactions based on outdated records, creating hidden exposure over time.5. The "digital goods" definition driftStates continue to broaden and redefine what counts as taxable digital products. As a result, there are often inconsistent rules governing downloads, SaaS, streaming, and cloud-based tools. Outdated product classifications are an issue, as they can lead to multi-state tax gaps. You should conduct regular digital-goods taxability reviews, monitor regulatory updates, and clearly separate digital and physical items during the checkout and invoicing process.Small overlooked details can cost bigThese aren’t merely academic exercises. Real e-commerce businesses are constantly being audited, facing assessments, or accidentally writing off material revenues because of outdated assumptions. Considering that many sellers nowadays have some sort of physical presence in many states, whether from inventory storage or remote employees, that were never accounted for, tax slip-ups are easier. As your business scales, or as you expand geographically, do your tax-compliance obligations. By uncovering hidden risks early, you can enjoy a clean audit instead of a multi-state penalty fire drill.This story was produced by Anrok and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Which states will get first access to new AI-driven treatment? Which states will get first access to new AI-driven treatment?Artificial intelligence is starting to change how doctors find diseases, choose treatments, and care for patients. AI tools are already helping read scans, spot cancer earlier, and support medical decisions.As these AI-driven treatments move closer to everyday use, many people are asking the same question: Where will patients get access to these new tools first?New medical technology rarely spreads evenly across the country. Some states tend to see new treatments years before others. This usually happens in places with large hospitals, strong research centers, and a high number of doctors.To better understand where AI-driven treatments are most likely to appear first, Kivo, a document management platform that helps life sciences teams collaborate efficiently, analyzed public healthcare and research data and created a state-by-state ranking.Ranking PremiseAccess to emerging treatments is typically connected to both general healthcare infrastructure and the presence of major research centers.People are most likely to have early access when their state has:More doctors per capita than other states.More major research centers that test new medical technology.This is why The District of Columbia ranks first overall in the study. It has far more doctors per person than any state and sits near many national research and policy institutions. Several Northeastern states also rank near the top, reflecting the region’s long history of medical research and teaching hospitals.Large states like California and New York still rank highly, but their large populations reduce per-person access compared with smaller, research-heavy states.MethodologyTo identify which states are most likely to see early access to AI-driven medical treatments, the research team created a Healthcare AI Readiness Index using publicly available data.Early access was defined using measurable factors that reflect where advanced medical technologies are usually introduced first.Physician workforce capacity was measured using the number of active physicians per 100,000 residents in each state. These data were sourced from Becker’s Hospital Review, which publishes state-by-state rankings of active physicians per capita based on federal workforce data.Physician totals were cross-checked using the Kaiser Family Foundation’s State Health Facts tool, which reports total active physicians by state.Research infrastructure was measured using the number of National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers in each state. These centers are among the most advanced research hospitals in the country and often serve as early sites for new medical technologies. Cancer center data were sourced from the National Cancer Institute’s official directory and verified using the NCI Cancer Centers Program directory.Population data used for per-capita calculations came from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, which publishes state population estimates based on U.S. Census data, provided through the FRED database.Physician density and cancer center density were converted into per-capita values and standardized so states could be compared fairly. Each state’s standardized scores were combined with equal weight to produce a single Healthcare AI Readiness Score. States were then ranked from highest to lowest based on this score.This analysis does not predict specific treatment approvals or commercial launch plans. It also does not include private pilot programs that are not connected to major research hospitals.Instead, it reflects how healthcare capacity and research presence have historically shaped where new medical technologies appear first.AI Access Scores & Ranking By StateThe chart below shows how each state ranks based on healthcare workforce capacity and advanced research infrastructure. Higher scores suggest states that are better positioned to see early access to AI-driven treatments. Kivo Why Healthcare Infrastructure Matters for AIAI-driven treatments often need more support than traditional care. Many rely on large data systems, trained specialists, and ongoing testing after they are introduced. Because of this, new AI tools are usually first used in large health systems that already handle complex care.Academic medical centers and federally recognized cancer centers often lead this work. These hospitals take part in clinical trials and early testing programs. States with more doctors per person also have an easier time adding new tools without placing extra stress on the healthcare system.Why Geography Still Shapes AccessThe rankings highlight something healthcare leaders have known for decades. Geography still plays a major role in who sees new medical technology first. States in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic consistently rise to the top because they concentrate academic hospitals, research funding, and specialty physicians within a relatively small population base. This creates a dense testing ground where AI tools can be piloted, evaluated, and refined before broader rollout.In contrast, many Southern and Mountain West states face a different reality. Even when population growth is strong, research hospitals and specialist capacity often lag behind demand. That makes it harder to introduce AI-driven diagnostics or treatment tools without straining existing systems. These regions are not falling behind because of a lack of innovation. They are constrained by workforce shortages, fewer federally designated research centers, and longer distances between patients and advanced care sites.Large coastal states show a more complex pattern. States with world-class research institutions still rank well overall, but their size dilutes per-capita access. Patients may have access to cutting-edge AI tools in major metro areas, while rural or inland regions wait much longer. The result is a patchwork of availability within the same state, shaped by where research hospitals and specialist networks are concentrated.Over time, many of these gaps will narrow as AI tools become easier to deploy and less dependent on large academic centers. Early access, however, continues to favor regions that already combine physician density with strong research infrastructure. For patients and policymakers alike, the data underscores a simple reality. Where you live still influences how quickly medical innovation reaches your exam room.What This Means for Patients and PolicymakersFor patients, these rankings help explain why some treatments may be available nearby while others are not. Early access often depends on where people live, not just on medical need.For policymakers, the results highlight the role of investment. Training more doctors, supporting research hospitals, and improving health data systems can all help states become better positioned for future medical innovation.This story was produced by Kivo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	17-year-old charged with misdemeanor battery after fight at Rock Island High School The Rock Island Police Department said the other student involved, an 18-year-old, refused medical treatment at the scene.

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Thursday, February 12th, 2026