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

Tuesday, April 7th, 2026
	Two Men and a Truck collecting donations for Humility Homes and Services Two Men and a Truck are collecting hygiene products, cleaning supplies, feminine care products and other donations to support people and families staying at Humility Homes and Services. The drive runs until May 5. Humility Homes houses up to 80 adults year-round and is the only low-barrier shelter in the Quad Cities. Donations can be [...]
	I-74 Bridge pedestrian trail to close overnight starting April 13 The I-74 Bridge pedestrian trail will close overnight starting April 13 for utility work tied to fiber internet improvements. Daytime access will remain open.
	Learn to keep basements dry with Moline Community Development Corporation Learn how to keep basements dry at a workshop from Moline Community Development Corporation. The group is hosting “Wet Basements Solutions: Top to Bottom on April 327 from 6 – 8:30 p.m. at Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House — Education Center, 701 12th Avenue in Moline. The workshop is sponsored by Moline Human Rights Commission. [...]
	Iowa teen picks near-perfect NCAA tournament bracket Iowa teenager stands second place among 38 million people who filled out a bracket in the official NCAA March Madness bracket competition.
	Photos: NASA releases first images from moon flyby During the mission's loop around the moon, the crew took geological observations of places of interest on the lunar surface using their own eyes and snapping thousands of photos of the surface.
	Rivermont Collegiate hosting Derby Day at the Mansion Catch all the action of Kentucky Derby Day at Rivermont Collegiate, 1821 Sunset Drive in Bettendorf! The school is hosting Derby Day at the Mansion on Saturday, May 2 from 4 – 7 p.m. Admission is $50 per person. Call 563-359-1366 or click here for more information and to buy tickets. Guests are encouraged to [...]
	Inside Iowa Politics: Candidate Jim Carlin doesn’t want American troops on the ground in Iran Jim Carlin, a former state senator who is running for the U.S. Senate, said that he supports the U.S. strikes on Iran but doesn't want to see the country engaged in a long war.
	Opening Day on the horizon at Davenport's Modern Woodmen Park News 8 is out at Modern Woodmen Park to catch up with team owner Dave Heller on the new promotional deals happening throughout this baseball season.
	2 pets killed in Monmouth house fire; home left uninhabitable A Monmouth house fire Monday left a home uninhabitable and killed two pets. No injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation.
	News 8 goes beyond the dugout ahead of Quad Cities River Bandits' opening day News 8 met up with assistant general manager Hunter Rommes to see what spectators can expect during this year's baseball season.
	Appeals court lets Iowa enforce book ban and restrictions on LGBTQ+ topics in K-6 classes An appellate court has ruled that Iowa can fully enforce a law restricting instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation in schools up to sixth grade.
	B & B Drain Tech celebrates 30th anniversary with ribbon cutting B & B Drain Tech in Milan to celebrate their 30th anniversary with ribbon cutting on Friday, April 10.
	Australia charges ex‑soldier with 5 war‑crime murders in Afghanistan Roberts-Smith is only the second Australian veteran of the Afghanistan campaign to be charged with a war crime.
	Warming trend with more rain Our new week is off to a cool start with highs in the 50s Monday and in the 40s to around 50° Tuesday. Windy and warmer weather is on tap Wednesday. A few rain showers are possible tonight, but more substantial showers and storms are on the way. Here's your complete 7-day forecast.
	Sherrard High School senior first female student to be accepted into West Points talks about inspiration Ava Egel is the first female Sherrard High School student to be accepted to West Point. She shared what inspired her to decide to go to the military academy.
	As Trump's deadline approaches, Iranian leaders respond in defiance Hours away from President Trump's 8 pm ET Tuesday deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, attacks continued in the Persian Gulf with no agreement in sight. Trump has threatened to bomb Iranian bridges and power plants if a deal is not reached.
	Mothers share donation stories during National Donate Life Month A mother honors her son’s life after a fatal accident, sharing how his tissue donations helped others and brought meaning to her grief during Donate Life Month.
	How Bill Phillips used flowing water to model the economy Bill Phillips was an outsider to economics, but he used a machine and a chart to change the way we think about the government's role in a capitalist economy.
	Quad City Symphony This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.The fastest way to get a friendly argument going in the Quad Cities is to introduce the phrase "joined by a river."…
	Beer cans, helium balloons and mortgages: An unexpected mix of things affected by the war It's not just oil and gas that are affected by the Iran war. All sorts of shortages and price spikes are starting to pop up that stand to affect people's daily lives.
	Taiwan's opposition leader arrives in China for a 'Journey of Peace' The visit takes place ahead of President Trump's own summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping next month, where Taiwan is expected to be a top agenda item.
	AI in the mental health care workforce is met with fear, pushback — and enthusiasm Artificial intelligence tools that help mental health therapists take notes and keep records are quickly entering the marketplace. But some question the safety of AI in mental health care delivery.
	Artemis II astronauts swung by the moon, broke an Apollo record, and saw an eclipse The NASA moon mission completed several key milestones as its crew looped around the lunar body. It's expected to splash down on Earth on Friday.
Monday, April 6th, 2026
	Michigan muscles its way to program's 2nd NCAA basketball title, beating UConn High-scoring Michigan had to get down and dirty to dig out the national title Monday, making only two 3-pointers all night but still muscling its way to a 69-63 victory over stingy, stubborn UConn.
	New East Moline Fire Chief sworn in He replaces Robert DeFrance, who retired after more than 27 years of service to the city in March.
	New Galesburg bus service to bring routes to major U.S. cities A new bus service will link Galesburg to cities in the region and across the country. Galesburg City Council approved a licensing agreement with a company called Flix North America. The agreement with flix north America will establish bus routes to several cities nearby, such as Des Moines, Peoria and Champaign. "We're only three hours [...]
	Death Notice: Robert Ragona A Mass of Christian Burial for Robert J. "Bob" Ragona, 52, of Donahue, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 10, at St. Ann Catholic Church, Long Grove. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church. Burial will be in St. Ann Cemetery. Chambers Funeral Home, Eldridge, is assisting the family with arrangements. Mr. Ragona died Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City. Memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com. A full obituary will appear in the April 8 edition of The NSP.
	Death Notice: Marilyn Jansen A funeral service for Marilyn Grace Jansen, 91, of Long Grove, will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, at Chambers Funeral Home, Eldridge. Visitation will be from 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Long Grove Cemetery. Mrs. Jansen died Thursday, April 2, 2026. Memorials may be made to the Long Grove Fire Department or Alan Shepard Elementary School in Long Grove. Online condolences may be made at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com. A full obituary will appear in the April 8 edition of The NSP.
	Arrest made in fatal Blue Grass crash 37-year-old Carri Neff of Davenport is charged with homicide by vehicle, operating while under the influence and more in the crash that killed Lisa Johannsen.
	Davenport woman charged in fatal crash A Davenport woman is facing multiple charges in regards to a fatal crash in March.
	Gardening, generosity and partnership growing in QC healthy food program After a successful first year, GIFT (Growing Illowa Food Together) Gardens is returning, inviting community members to again plant with purpose and share their harvest with neighbors in need.
	Controversial natural gas power plant proposal resurfaces amid public pushback The Central Iowa Power Cooperative, or CIPCO, wants to build a natural gas power plant on farmland just outside of Maysville, Iowa.
	CIPCO begins alternative route to bring natural gas power plant to Scott County Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO) began an alternative route to bring a natural gas peaking power plant to Scott County. It's the same plan the Scott County Board of Supervisors rejected a zoning amendment for in February. CIPCO is looking to get a certificate from the Iowa Utilities Commission to build the power plant using [...]
	The Waiting Child: Terry loves basketball and reading; waits for a Big Brothers Big Sisters ‘Big’ More than 200 kids in the area are on the waiting list for a ‘Big.’ Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley needs volunteers to spend time with them. In this week’s The Waiting Child, Our Quad Cities News' Eric Olsen introduces us to Terry, a basketball fan who loves reading. Terry shares what [...]
	What's ahead for the Quad Cities River Bandits? Our Quad Cities River Bandits kick off the new season against the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers here at home, and the fun and excitement continue all season long at Modern Woodmen Park. Dave Heller sat down with Our Quad Cities News to talk about what's ahead for the River Bandits. For more information, click here.
	Galesburg approves new intercity bus service Galesburg will expand its intercity bus service as city leaders added another provider to increase travel options and connections across the country.
	QCA Multilingual Education Conference to help make classrooms more inclusive Educators from across the region are coming together to make classrooms more inclusive, bringing teachers, schools and organizations together to share strategies for supporting students who speak multiple languages. Melissa Gravert and Jose Burgos joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Multilingual Education Conference here in the QCA. For more information, click here.
	Woman arrested in connection with crash that killed Blue Grass woman A Davenport woman was arrested Monday in connection with the death of a Blue Grass woman who was struck and killed by a vehicle as she was walking her dog.
	QCA student wants to mend teaching gaps; carries family legacy along the way Illinois' ongoing teacher shortage prompted the state and local school districts to take steps that attract more people into the profession. Ben Polyak is a sophomore at Augustana College and determined to be a teacher, and he hopes to make a small dent in the problem. In the process, he plans to carry on his [...]
	Traffic Alert: Rockingham Road reconstruction underway to create permanent flood detour Traveling in Davenport? Rockingham Road is closed for reconstruction through mid-July, while emergency water main repairs are expected to reopen this Wednesday.
	United Way Quad Cities CEO stepping down in late June After eight years leading United Way Quad Cities, Rene Gellerman is leaving the regional nonprofit in June, and is not sure what her next challenge will be, but she plans to stay in the area.
	Galesburg considers new intercity bus service Galesburg could soon expand its intercity bus service as city leaders consider adding another provider to increase travel options and connections across the country.
	Think the Sheriff is calling? Think again: Henry County warns of ‘spoofed’ phone scams The Henry County Sheriff's Office warns residents of active phone scams involving spoofed numbers and fake arrest threats. Learn how to protect yourself today.
	Community gardening initiative returns to the Quad Cities for a second year GIFT Gardens is a collaborative program working to fight food and nutrition insecurity by providing fresh, local produce to food pantries. Here's how it works.
	Meeting held on potential natural gas power plant in eastern Iowa The Central Iowa Power Cooperative, or CIPCO, wants to build a natural gas power plant on farmland just outside of Maysville, Iowa.
	Rock River to reach flood stage tonight; Mississippi River could reach action stage by next Monday The Rock River at Moline is expected to reach its 12-foot flood stage by about 7 p.m. tonight and hold there through the daytime hours Tuesday before starting to fall.
	Traffic Alert: Part of Pine Street reduced to 1 lane for reconstruction Part of Pine Street will be down to one lane of northbound traffic starting Monday.
	A look at some (beneficial) recent rain stats in the Quad Cities After many months of dry weather in the Quad Cities, things have finally turned around over the last 5 weeks. We ended up above normal for March and April is off to a wet start as well! There are more showers in the forecast this week too!
	Niabi Zoo animals celebrate Easter The Niabi Zoo's animals received their own eggs with treats inside to celebrate the holiday.
	United Way Quad Cities CEO stepping down Rene Gellerman, CEO of United Way Quad Cities, is stepping down after eight years.
	Illinois politics latest: Property taxes, Pritkzer calls for year-round E-15, warehouse pollution Every Monday on The Current, during the legislative sessions, we break down the top stories from Des Moines, Iowa, and Springfield, Illinois.
	Local nonprofit to distribute books to Rock Island Academy students "Planting Books – Seeds 4 a Better Future" will be distributing books to more than 200 Rock Island Academy students.
	Galesburg schools seek community input in superintendent selection Galesburg CUSD #205 begins its search for a new superintendent as Dr. John Asplund plans to retire in 2027, with a community survey now open.
	City of Rock Island, Arsenal expand partnership with $40M maintenance deal Rock Island lands $40M Arsenal maintenance deal; city expands public works partnership.
	1 dead, 1 injured after Jones County crash Investigators believe a driver heading northbound on Highway 151 crossed the median and was struck by a southbound vehicle.
	Stop light coming to intersection outside Vibrant Arena After a unanimous decision, a traffic signal will be installed outside Vibrant Arena at the intersection of 12th Street and River Drive.
	Iowa politics latest: Right to repair laws, English proficiency for CDL holders, highway speeds Every Monday during the legislative session, The Current's Shelby Kluver recaps the latest topics and headlines from Des Moines, Iowa, and Springfield, Illinois.
	For Better or Worst: “The Drama,” “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” and “Pizza Movie” Prior to writer/director Kristoffer Borgli's transfixing, deeply uncomfortable A24 romance The Drama, I think you'd have to go back to 1992's The Crying Game to find a film that made you – by which I mean me – quite so antsy to learn its heavily promoted Big Secret.
	City of Rock Island, Arsenal officials to sign Intergovernmental Service Agreement IGSAs are partnerships between military installations and local governments.
	Student sent home indefinitely after writing bomb threat, school officials say A student was sent home indefinitely after admitting to writing a bomb threat Monday, New London School officials said.
	Taco & Margarita Festival returns to downtown East Moline More than a 130 vendors have signed on for East Moline’s Taco & Margarita Festival.
	Community gardening initiative returns to the Quad Cities for a second year GIFT Gardens is a collaborative program working to fight food and nutrition insecurity by providing fresh, local produce to food pantries. Here's how it works.
	Blackhawk Bank & Trust announces leadership changes Blackhawk Bank & Trust is saying goodbye to one president as it welcomes a new one. Blackhawk Bank & Trust president Christopher J. Lemon has retired, effective Friday, April 3, ending a 45-year career at the bank. Lemon served as president for the past 18 months, leading Blackhawk through a leadership transition and positioning the [...]
	Illinois pursues abortion coverage for people with little or no insurance A new Illinois bill would establish a state grant program to pay for abortions for uninsured or underinsured people.
	What can Artemis II astronauts see that satellites haven't captured? The astronauts on Artemis II will observe parts of the moon rarely seen by human eyes. A NASA planetary scientist said it will offer a vital perspective for lunar research.
	10News at 2 (4/06): Knoxville Public Transportation, Local Tie to Artemis II, WBIR's New Nashville Coverage Robin Wilhoit updates the latest news and weather. Chief Meteorologist Todd Howell joins, along with reporters Elana Mutnick and Libby Cunningham.
	Good vibes, tequila, and sore feet: What Instacart orders reveal about music festivals in the Coachella Valley Good vibes, tequila, and sore feet: What Instacart orders reveal about music festivals in the Coachella ValleyInstacart analyzed order data across 11 cities in the Coachella Valley during the 2025 spring desert festival season, which spans three weeks in April. Instacart does not deliver alcohol to festival grounds, so purchases reflect orders placed in the surrounding Coachella Valley area. What people put in their carts reveals a lot about how Americans prep, party, and recover from long days in the sun — and how uniquely they do it for the two distinctly different music festivals. In this article, Instacart shares the revelations.Key TakeawaysOrders were placed 25% more often than normal during the three-week festival period, making it one of the busiest times of the year for the region.Tequila was a top-selling alcohol at both festivals. It spiked over 1,200% above the national average at the pop and electronic music festival and over 1,500% at the country music festival — the largest jump of any alcohol at either event. Margaritas were having a moment.There was a clear wave of “oops, I forgot” items. Body sunscreen was up 1,033% for the pop and electronic music festival, while bandages rose 405%, showing how often last-minute essentials made their way into orders.Foot care emerged as a real festival need. Foot insoles and inserts rose more than 3,900% around the pop and electronic music festival and 6,000% around the country music festival — one of the largest spikes across any product category.Electrolyte supplements spiked 304% at the pop and electronic music festival versus 252% at the country music festival, while sports drinks rose 58% and 37%, respectively.The Festivals Rival Thanksgiving in Coachella ValleyThe Coachella Valley doesn't just throw festivals — it throws Instacart into overdrive. Every April, the region sees a grocery surge that rivals Thanksgiving. During the 2025 festival season, orders were placed 25% more often than normal across 11 cities in the surrounding area, including Indio, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, and La Quinta. Instacart The Desert Called. Tequila Answered.During the pop and electronic music festival, unflavored tequila jumped more than 1,200% above the rest of the U.S., leading every alcohol category by a wide margin. Liqueurs, Mexican-style lagers, unflavored vodka, hard seltzers, prosecco, rosé, and more all followed. The desert bar was fully stocked.The more interesting signal is what came with the tequila. Orders containing tequila and limes in the same cart jumped 5,560% above the national average in the Coachella Valley. Add chili peppers to that combination and those orders ran 4,897% above normal.Spicy margaritas, anyone? The carts say yes.Methodology: Instacart calculated the percentage difference between 1) share of orders on the Instacart platform with tequila and limes in the same order between April 10-20, 2025, in Coachella, Vista Santa Rosa, Indio, La Quinta, Indian Wells, Bermuda Dunes, Palm Desert, Thousand Palms, Sky Valley, Rancho Mirage, and Palm Springs and 2) the share of orders on the Instacart platform with tequila and limes in the same order between April 10-20, 2025, in the rest of the United States. Instacart Avo Toast, Energy Drinks, and Survival InstinctsGreen limes (up 120%), Hass avocados (49%), tortilla chips (45%), and sourdough bread (89%) all spiked together, making chips and dips and avocado toast a top-notch snacking option (and arguably a festival food group).Energy drinks (67%), sports drinks (58%), and coffee drinks (110%) all trended up sharply. Celebration, recovery, and survival in the hot desert for three days demands a fueling plan.The shopping list is giving survival mode, festival edition. Instacart And if there's one unsung hero of festival season? Sparkling water. It topped every other beverage category in the Coachella Valley.Among popular sparkling water brands, LaCroix came in first, San Pellegrino second, and Sparkling Ice third — hydration, but make it bubbly. Instacart The “Oops, I Forgot” CartBody sunscreen (up 1,033%), bandages (405%), eye drops (187%), toothbrushes (149%), and razors (116%) pointed to last-minute essentials that people may have forgotten to pack. Items like disposable cups (143%) and pool floats (1,492%) show that people wanted to keep the party going outside of the festival (and possibly into the pool).And then there are the things no one thinks about until they absolutely have to, like pain from wearing cowboy boots and four-inch platforms to an all-day dance party. Foot insoles jumped nearly 4,000%. Instacart Same Lineup, Different Energy: Weekend 1 vs. Weekend 2For the annual pop and electronic music festival, the differences between weekend 1 and weekend 2 are clear.Weekend 1 festivalgoers prioritized keeping the energy high (or at least trying to) by purchasing energy drinks (up 45%), refueling and recovering with electrolyte supplements (37%), juice shots (29%), coffee drinks (13%), and relaxing and snacking with pool floats (19%), and guacamole (20%).Weekend 2 had its own vibe: Pinot grigio surged 75%, false eyelashes jumped 64%, and margarita mix rose 28%. Instacart Same Venue. Completely Different Carts.Both festivals take place around the same time, at the same venue, but they play out very differently. The pop and electronic music festival leans into body sunscreen, juice shots, caffeine drinks, and electrolyte supplements, while the country music festival saddles up for tortilla chips, light lagers, spirits, and snacks like fresh fruit and veggie trays. Instacart And while sore feet show up at both festivals, the country music festival pushes it further — foot insoles jump from around 3,900% at the pop and electronic music festival to over 6,000%, suggesting those cowboy boots might not be as comfortable as they look. Lucky for country music lovers, camping chairs are permitted at their festival and spike in carts, so they can take a load off. No such luck for weary pop and electronic music festivalgoers.This story was produced by Instacart and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Independent contractor vs. sole proprietor vs. LLC: What's the difference? Independent contractor vs. sole proprietor vs. LLC: What's the difference?For many entrepreneurs, the legal aspects of starting a business loom large. One of the first things you’ll have to figure out when opening your business, and reconsider as you grow, is your business structure. If you’re comparing a limited liability company (an LLC) versus a sole proprietorship, this can be an important choice. This explainer from ERGO NEXT shows it’s not as complicated as it might sound.The differences of legal business structures: LLC vs sole proprietorship vs single-member LLC vs corporation ERGO NEXT What are the benefits of an LLC?If you run your own business and you don’t take any legal steps to separate your personal assets from your business assets, you’re a sole proprietor. This is the default for any small business owner. Your business assets and your personal assets are intertwined.If you take steps to register your business as a limited liability company, this separates your personal liability from your business liability. This protection is one of the primary benefits of registering as an LLC.If a customer sues your business and your business operates as an LLC, they likely recover any judgments from your personal assets, like your personal bank accounts, home or car. Your liability, or what you could lose, would be limited to your business assets.LLCs also offer additional benefits that are missing when you operate your business as a sole proprietorship:Tax flexibility: You can choose the same tax treatment as a sole prop or be taxed as an S corp.Multiple owners: You can add more owners to your business beyond yourself.Simpler accounting: Operating as an LLC can help you cleanly divide your business accounting from your personal ones, such as investments, property ownership, etc.The drawback to registering your business as an LLC versus a sole proprietorship is that you must file formal documentation with the state, including submitting articles of organization, an operating agreement for your business and a business license. You’ll also need to register for an employer identification number (EIN) with the IRS and submit annual paperwork and fees.Business insurance for LLCsRegistering as an LLC protects you personally, but it doesn’t protect your business from liability. For that, you’ll need business insurance for LLCs to limit your business’ financial losses from the cost of legal defense, property damage, medical bills or other costs that could wipe out a business after a single lawsuit. Without business insurance, your LLC’s cash, as well as its business assets like real estate, equipment and vehicles, could be at risk.Some common types of business insurance you may want as an LLC include general liability insurance to help protect your business from the cost of nonemployees who get hurt at your business or damage you cause to other people’s property, commercial property insurance to help protect your own business property like products, inventory, furniture, fixtures and the building itself, and workers’ compensation insurance, a requirement in most states if you have employees.Taxes for LLCsLLCs offer tax flexibility. When you register as an LLC, you can keep it simple and add your business income to your personal taxes. It works the same as taxes for a sole proprietorship: you pay personal taxes on the income as well as the self-employment taxes. This is called pass-through taxation because the profits “pass through” to your personal returns, and you pay your individual tax rate based on them. The LLC itself doesn’t pay federal taxes.LLCs can elect to be taxed as an S corp without becoming a corporation legally. Your income would be paid to you as a salary and subject to payroll taxes.A tax professional can help you determine which method is best for you and your business.LLC vs sole proprietorshipIf you run your business as a sole proprietorship, there would be no division between your business and personal assets. A dissatisfied customer could sue you for all that you have personally, as well as the assets of your business.The difference between a sole proprietorship and an LLC comes down to simplicity and protection.Sole proprietors need no official paperwork to open and run their business. This is the default corporate status.LLCs need to file with the state.There’s no formal cost associated with running your business as a sole proprietorship, while organizing as an LLC will require you to pay filing fees, license fees, reporting fees and other costs.Sole proprietorship leaves you personally liable for costs if you’re sued, while an LLC creates a clear distinction between your personal and business assets.What’s the definition of a sole proprietorship?A sole proprietorship is an unincorporated business owned and operated by a single person. If you aren’t registering your business with the state but do have income and expenses that are separate from your regular household expenses, then you have a sole proprietorship. This includes people who make things, teach classes, sell products, provide creative services or consult.For example, suppose you’re a freelance designer. You run the business under your own name and you deal directly with clients. If there’s no official LLC formation filed with the state, you’re a sole proprietor, the only owner of your business.Sole proprietorships are the simplest business structure, as you and the business are the same legal entity. There’s no formal registration required, and you report your business income on your personal tax return. Being a sole proprietor is the default business structure for anyone doing business alone without forming an entity.Business insurance for sole proprietorsSole proprietor business insurance can help cover some costs from legal action, as well as some costs associated with property damage or medical bills.General liability insurance is one of the most common coverages for sole proprietors to help protect your business from the cost of nonemployees who get hurt at your business or damage you cause to other people’s property.If you run your own business inside your home or rent a commercial office, warehouse, or storefront, commercial property insurance could help protect your own business property inside, such as laptops or other equipment, products, inventory, furniture, fixtures and the building itself.If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is a requirement in most states.If your business sells advice, knowledge or professional services, such as a consultant, an accountant, an insurance agent or a real estate agent, you may also need professional liability insurance (also called errors and omissions insurance, or E&O) to help protect you from the legal defense costs of professional mistakes that cost a client money — even if you’re found not to be at fault.Taxes for sole proprietorsIf you run a business as a sole proprietor, you include your business income and expenses on your personal taxes. You’ll be taxed on your profits, not gross revenue, based on your tax bracket. You’ll owe self-employment taxes as well (the portion normally covered by an employer — Social Security and Medicare). You’ll also be able to deduct your business expenses, such as a home office, computer equipment and software, advertising costs and more.As with an LLC, with pass-through taxation, you don’t have to file a separate business income tax return when you’re a sole proprietor.Sole proprietorship vs single-member LLCA sole proprietorship is not the same as a single-member LLC. As a sole proprietor, you and the business are one and the same. When you register as a single-member LLC, you create a legal entity.What does it mean to be a single-member LLC?A single-member LLC is simply an LLC with one owner. A single-member LLC is not the same as a sole proprietorship legally, although it can be taxed like one.Once you form the LLC, legally, you and the business are separate entities, and your personal assets are protected from legal action against your business (in most cases).Business insurance for single-member LLCsBusiness insurance can help protect your LLC and its assets, but your personal assets are shielded by the LLC’s structure.Just like an LLC, single-member LLCs should consider business insurance for the risks they face. General liability insurance is one of the most common types of insurance coverage for a business because it can cover a broad range of risks, including when someone gets hurt on business property or when you accidentally injure someone else’s property.Business commercial property insurance should be considered if you want protection for your own business property at your business site. This could help out if your business falls victim to theft, fire, vandalism and some severe weather incidents. It can help cover property at your business location, like laptops and equipment, machinery, furniture, and any products you sell or inventory in your stock room.General liability and commercial property coverage can be combined together — often at a better price than two separate policies — into a business owner's policy (BOP insurance).Taxes for single-member LLCsThe IRS treats single-member LLCs as “disregarded entities,” meaning it will ignore the business as separate from the owner. You file taxes the way a sole proprietor would, including the income and expenses on your personal tax return (using Schedule C) and paying both individual income tax and self-employment taxes. This method of taxation is the default.However, you can elect a different tax treatment. As a single-member LLC, you could instead choose to file taxes as either an S corporation or a C corporation.If you choose to file as an S corp, you’d pay yourself a salary from business revenue and pay payroll taxes on it. You could take the remainder of your profits as distributions that aren’t subject to payroll taxes. This is a choice for higher-income single-member LLCs.What does it mean to be a corporation?A corporation is a more formal business structure with stricter rules. It’s completely separate from the people who own it and is treated as its own legal entity. There are two different tax classifications for corporations: C corporations and S corporations.C corporationC corps are the default corporate structure. The business pays corporate taxes. And as an owner, you’ll also pay income tax on the distributions you receive. It’s considered “double taxation” for this reason.C corps are a common structure for startups seeking investors. You can have multiple owners or shareholders, issue shares of company stock and welcome foreign investors. These features make it easier to scale the company, raise outside funds and plow profits back into the business.S corporationAn S corp is a type of tax treatment for corporations. Filing as an S corp avoids double taxation, as it’s considered a pass-through entity, so there’s no corporate tax. It can also help reduce what you pay in self-employment taxes since you’re on the payroll, and you can take owner distributions.S corps have more limits on the number and type of owners you can have than with a C corp. S corps are capped at 100 shareholders, who must be U.S. citizens or residents. In some cases, a shareholder can be a trust, estate or tax-exempt organization, but it can’t be a corporation or LLC.Business insurance for corporationsSince a corporation can be sued, own assets, or enter into contracts like a person, it has distinct insurance protection needs. The corporate structure provides liability protection for individual owners, but for the company itself requires business insurance for its own liability protection.In addition to standard business insurance coverages like commercial general liability, commercial property insurance and professional liability insurance/E&O insurance, corporations may also benefit from directors and officers insurance (D&O). This coverage could help protect officers and directors of the company against legal claims regarding management decisions. It can also offer protection in case of regulatory issues or mismanagement.Taxes for corporationsA corporation is a separate legal entity, and it pays taxes as one, too.A corporation can file federal taxes as a C corp or an S corp. C corp is the default filing method.To file as an S corp, your corporation must meet specific requirements, including its number of members, type of members and class of stock.The benefit of filing as an S corp is avoiding the double taxation of a C corp.Business structures for independent contractorsAn independent contractor is someone hired to perform specific services for someone else, whether it’s a client or a company.Independent contractors are not employees. They don’t receive benefits like vacation time or health insurance, and they control their time and work hours. They also pay their own taxes. A freelancer is an independent contractor; they offer services for hire without joining the company as an employee.An independent contractor is self-employed, and they can choose their own business structure, whether that’s sole proprietorship, LLC or S corporation. Independent contractors receive 1099 forms from each client at tax-time, not W-2s as employees do.This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to make your website GDPR compliant in 8 steps How to make your website GDPR compliant in 8 stepsThe General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is one of the world’s most comprehensive privacy laws that sets out strict requirements for how organizations should handle the personal information of individuals in the European Union (EU).If you’re operating a website that processes EU-relevant personal user data, you’ll have to align your data practices with the GDPR. Failing to do so can result in hefty financial penalties and corrective actions from regulatory authorities. (Note: After the UK’s exit from the EU, the United Kingdom implemented its own version of the law, known as the UK GDPR, which closely mirrors the EU GDPR. If your website serves or collects data from users in both the EU and the UK, you must ensure compliance with both frameworks.)In this article, agentic trust platform Vanta walks through the steps to make your website GDPR compliant.What is the GDPR, and how does it impact websites?The GDPR sets rules to protect the personal data of people in the EU. It also grants them greater control over their information, including the right to access, correct, or delete it.For in-scope organizations, the GDPR lays out strict requirements for processing personal data. These include:Transparency: Clearly communicating how and why data is collectedMinimization: Collecting and storing only the minimum information necessary for a specific processing purposeSecurity: Implementing strong safeguards to prevent misuse or unauthorized accessWebsites are often used to collect data, either through forms, cookies, or account signups, so they are typically subject to the GDPR. Even if your organization is based outside the EU, you must comply with the GDPR if your website is accessible to and collects data of people in the EU.If you’re conflicted about whether to align your website with the EU or UK GDPR, here’s a quick breakdown:If your website targets or collects data from individuals in the EU, comply with EU GDPR.If your website targets or collects data from individuals in the UK, comply with UK GDPR.If your website targets or collects data from individuals in both regions, comply with both EU and UK GDPR (many companies simply adopt the stricter standard globally to streamline compliance).“Even if only a small percentage of users are in the EU, GDPR is still applicable,” says Connor Synder GRC subject matter expert at Vanta. “Typically, the safest approach is to apply GDPR requirements and standards globally for simplicity and trust. In cases where this may not be practical, companies can take a hybrid approach by employing global core safeguards across the organization with EU-specific compliance for high-friction items as needed.”Why is GDPR compliance important for your website?If your website falls in the scope of the GDPR, you’re legally obligated to follow all the requirements of the regulation. Noncompliance can result in substantial financial penalties of up to €20 million or 4% of your global revenue, whichever is higher.Besides avoiding fines, there are other benefits to GDPR compliance:Expanding into new regions: If you plan to enter the EU market, your website and operations must comply with the GDPR. Because many of the regulations’ requirements align with or exceed the standards of other international privacy laws, compliance can also streamline further expansion goals.Gaining and keeping trust: Demonstrating GDPR compliance shows your organization’s dedication to data security, which can help build trust among customers, partners, and investors.Strengthening data security: GDPR is one of the most rigorous data privacy laws, so implementing the required measures improves your organization’s security posture.Creating additional opportunities: A GDPR-compliant website signals strong data governance, which can give your business a competitive edge when finding potential partners.8 steps to make your website GDPR compliantWhether you’re operating within the EU and/or the U.K., or simply attracting visitors from there, these eight steps will help you align your website with the GDPR requirements and demonstrate accountability:Assess your GDPR compliance statusAdd permission requests where necessaryAdd data collection information to your websiteInvestigate any third-party apps, plug-ins, or toolsCreate a way for data subjects to get in touchUpdate your data securityDevelop policies for GDPR complianceConfirm and document your GDPR complianceStep 1: Assess your GDPR compliance statusThe first step toward GDPR compliance is to assess how your website currently aligns with the regulation’s requirements. The assessment helps you understand your level of readiness and identify areas for improvement.Start by conducting an internal compliance assessment, which involves:Reviewing privacy notices to confirm they’re clear and up to dateAssessing your controls against GDPR compliance criteriaDetermining whether all the information you’re collecting is necessary for processing activitiesConfirming whether your organization acts as a data controller, processor, or both, since each role carries different compliance responsibilitiesTo make this process efficient, consider using leading automated GDPR compliance software that scans your website, security controls, and data processing practices against GDPR requirements. These tools can pinpoint gaps and risks, allowing you to prioritize updates that will have the largest impact on your website’s compliance status and user trust.Step 2: Add permission requests where necessaryConsent is a key aspect of GDPR compliance. Under the regulation, websites must obtain explicit, informed consent before they start collecting user data. This is different from implied consent, where agreement is assumed when a user visits your website. Explicit consent requires a clear, affirmative action, such as clicking an “Accept” button before any data collection begins.If your website collects data through cookies, analytics tools, mailing lists, or forms, you must inform users in advance and obtain their explicit consent before collecting nonessential data, as well as provide a way for them to opt out.To ensure your consent process is transparent and compliant, you should:Display a clearly visible and accessible privacy notice on your website, explaining what data you collect and whyInclude simple opt-out options that allow users to withdraw consent at any timeAdd a link to your privacy policy in your website footer so visitors can review how their data is collected and usedStep 3: Add data collection information to your websiteTransparency is another key principle of the GDPR. Your website must clearly inform visitors about:What data you’re collectingHow you’re using this dataHow you’re processing the dataWho can access this dataWho you’re sharing the data withWhether the data is being shared across bordersHow long you retain the dataContact information visitors can use to exercise their data subject rightsThis information can be part of your privacy notice or policy and should be written in clear language free of jargon.Step 4: Investigate any third-party apps, plug-ins, or toolsThird-party integrations are often essential for your website’s functionality, but they can also introduce new compliance risks. Under the GDPR, you’re responsible for the data handling practices of any third-party apps, plug-ins, or tools that process data on your behalf.Before integrating third-party software or services, conduct an assessment to verify they meet GDPR requirements and your internal criteria.The biggest compliance gaps with third-party apps or plug-ins happen when functionality and efficiency are prioritized over data protection. Common issues include failing to disclose data sharing, improper cross-border data transfers, and excessive data collection.To minimize these risks, you should:Conduct a technical assessment to ensure the third party has implemented adequate measures for protecting sensitive dataLimit data collection and sharing to the minimum necessary for the stated purposeDefine clear privacy and security expectations in your service-level agreements (SLAs) or data processing agreements (DPAs)Step 5: Create a way for data subjects to get in touchThe GDPR grants individuals eight data subject rights, giving them greater control over their personal information and allowing them to hold organizations accountable. To comply, your website must make it easy for users to exercise these rights, which include accessing, correcting, or requesting the erasure of their data.In practice, this means establishing clear communication channels, such as a phone number or an email address, that data subjects can use to reach your data protection officer (DPO) or privacy contact.You should also establish structured, repeatable procedures for managing data subject requests to ensure you can address them within GDPR’s required time frames.Document all requests and your responses to demonstrate compliance during audits or regulatory inquiries.Step 6: Update your data securityTo comply with the GDPR, you must protect all personal data collected through your website from unauthorized access and misuse. This requires implementing strong data security and access management measures, such as:Access controlsSpecific employee IDsAnti-virus softwareFirewallsBeyond implementing specific safeguards, the GDPR emphasizes two key principles: “privacy by design” and “privacy by default.” Although closely related, they serve distinct purposes:Privacy by design means embedding privacy and data protection into every stage of system or product development, especially in the early stages rather than retrofitting controls after systems are built. It’s a proactive, architectural approach.Privacy by default ensures that all privacy-friendly settings are automatically enabled for all end users, without requiring manual configuration.Another critical concept is data minimization: You should only collect, store, and process the least amount of data necessary to achieve the purpose of your processing activity.Step 7: Develop policies for GDPR complianceEstablish clear governance policies that define responsibilities, guide decision-making, and ensure consistency across all GDPR data processing activities.This includes creating and regularly testing an incident response plan. Under the GDPR, data breaches must be reported within strict time frames, typically 72 hours of detection. To minimize the risk of noncompliance, assign clear roles to each stakeholder and run regular simulations to make sure your team can respond quickly and effectively.Your governance policies should also reinforce accountability across all GDPR-related activities, including how you manage data subject rights, maintain records, and monitor compliance processes.Step 8: Confirm and document your GDPR complianceOnce your website meets the applicable GDPR criteria, you should maintain detailed documentation that demonstrates ongoing compliance in case of audits or regulatory reviews.Some of the documentation you should keep includes:Record of processing activities (RoPA): A log mapping all personal data you collect, store, and process for a specific activityData access logs: Records showing who accessed sensitive data and whenDPAs and SLAs: Contracts with third parties that outline roles, responsibilities, and security obligationsTraining completion reports: Proof that all relevant stakeholders have completed GDPR awareness and compliance trainingData protection impact assessment (DPIA) findings: Documentation of high-risk data processing activities and the measures you’ve taken to mitigate threatsTo make this process more efficient, use a compliance automation tool to regularly scan your website and confirm adherence to GDPR requirements. These tools automatically document your compliance controls, helping you ensure that user data is adequately protected and minimizing the risk of noncompliance.Additional tips for maintaining GDPR website complianceMaking your website GDPR compliant is only the beginning—keeping it that way requires continuous oversight and regular updates as your operations and regulations evolve. GDPR compliance efforts should be reviewed at least once a year, and more often if you experience significant changes to your operations.Here are a few practical tips to help you maintain compliance:1. Assign a data protection officerA data protection officer (DPO) is a stakeholder within your organization responsible for overseeing GDPR compliance and ensuring all privacy-related activities are coordinated and monitored. Having a designated leader helps centralize accountability, streamline decision-making, and maintain consistent adherence to data protection requirements.Under the GDPR, appointing a DPO is only mandatory for:Public authoritiesOrganizations that process large volumes of sensitive dataOrganizations that conduct large-scale, systematic monitoring of individualsIf your organization doesn’t meet these criteria, you are not required to appoint a DPO (although it’s still considered a security-first practice).If your organization is not established in the EU or the UK but targets or monitors individuals in those regions, you may also need to appoint:An EU Representative (EU GDPR Article 27)A UK Representative (UK GDPR Article 27)These must be separate entities, since the UK and EU are distinct jurisdictions post-Brexit. For example, a US-based SaaS company with customers in both France and the UK would need:One DPO (if required by law)One EU Representative (based in the EU)One UK Representative (based in the UK) 2. Use HTTPS for data encryptionProtecting data in transit is a crucial aspect of GDPR compliance. The most effective way to secure your website’s traffic is by using HTTPS instead of HTTP.HTTPS encrypts the data exchanged between your website and its visitors, preventing unauthorized access. It also enhances user trust and boosts your website’s credibility, as modern browsers now flag non-HTTPS sites as “not secure.”3. Integrate data protection principles into your security controlsA key best practice of GDPR compliance is designing your security controls around the regulation’s seven data protection principles. These principles shape how you collect, store, and process personal data, and particularly help your website data handling and supporting systems remain compliant and transparent.Here’s quick overview of what the seven principles mean in practice. Vanta 4. Conduct regular data protection impact assessmentsBefore starting any new data processing activity, especially one that involves highly sensitive personal information, determine whether a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) is required.Under the GDPR, DPIAs are mandatory when processing activities are likely to result in a high risk to individuals’ rights and freedoms, such as when using new technologies, tracking user behavior, or performing automated decision-making that could significantly affect data subjects.While the GDPR does not specify exactly how to determine whether processing meets this “likely high risk” threshold, many organizations use a threshold assessment as a best-practice step. A threshold assessment is a short screening exercise that helps you decide whether a full DPIA is necessary and documents your reasoning, demonstrating accountability under the GDPR.The DPIA process involves:Describing the processing activity and its purposeEvaluating the necessity of the processing activityIdentifying the potential risks to individualsOutlining measures taken to mitigate these risks5. Anonymize sensitive dataMake sure that sensitive personal information can’t be traced to specific individuals by using various anonymization techniques, such as:K-anonymity: Grouping similar types of data so individuals can’t be singled outRandomization: Changing data values in a controlled way to make re-identification more difficultMasking: Replacing identifiable information with fictitious or scrambled data6. Leverage automationMaintaining GDPR compliance is an ongoing, resource-intensive process that demands continuous monitoring, documentation, and adaptation to evolving regulations. Relying solely on manual oversight can overwhelm teams, introduce inconsistencies, and increase the likelihood of human error—all of which can lead to compliance gaps and regulatory exposure.To manage this complexity efficiently, adopt an automated GDPR compliance platform that centralizes evidence collection, control testing, and reporting. Automation reduces repetitive manual work, accelerates audits, and provides real-time visibility into your organization’s compliance posture.By integrating automation into your compliance program, your teams can focus on strategic data protection, proactive risk management, and continuous improvement, rather than chasing spreadsheets or manually tracking updates. The result is a stronger, more resilient compliance foundation that scales with your organization’s growth.FAQsDo I need a cookie banner in the EU?Yes. Under the GDPR, you must obtain explicit consent before you can store any nonessential tracking cookies, such as those used for advertising or analytics.Is Google Analytics GDPR compliant?Google Analytics is generally considered a data processor under the GDPR, meaning it must comply with the regulation’s requirements.Does GDPR apply to US websites?The GDPR applies to US websites if they’re accessible to individuals in the EU and collect their data, offer goods or services, or monitor their behavior.What if my website is not GDPR compliant?If your website falls within the GDPR’s scope but doesn’t meet its requirements, you may face substantial fines and penalties as well as operational disruption.How do I check if my website is GDPR compliant?You can determine your website’s GDPR compliance by conducting an internal audit against relevant requirements or relying on an automated tool that scans your website, identifies risks, and provides actionable recommendations for remediation.This story was produced by Vanta and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Bettendorf to unveil new playground at Friendship Park April 10 Bettendorf will unveil a new playground on April 10 at Friendship Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, free cookies and lemonade for attendees.
	Student detained after bomb threat note found at New London High School A student was detained after admitting to writing a bomb threat note found during a testing session at New London High School in Iowa.
	Project NOW hosts Rooting Out Poverty conference Project NOW is hosting the 2026 Rooting Out Poverty Conference on Thursday, April 9, starting at 8 a.m. at Waterfront Convention Center, 2021 State Street in Bettendorf. Click here to register. Speakers, including politicians and representatives of homeless organizations, will give presentations on homelessness and ways to prevent and end it. The conference’s schedule includes: [...]
	Even when Arsenio Hall's show was a hit, 'everyone wanted it to be something else' Hall's late-night show gave hip-hop a home on TV and helped propel Bill Clinton to the White House. "I wanted to do this show that didn't exist when I was a kid," he says. Hall's memoir is Arsenio.
	First-degree murder trial began Monday in Davenport homicide The first-degree murder trial in the case of Johnathan Terrones, 21, of East Moline, began Monday in Scott County District Court.
	Tiny surgical robots are bringing AI inside the human body, and they're closer than you think Tiny surgical robots are bringing AI inside the human body, and they're closer than you thinkTiny surgical robots are learning to make decisions inside the human body, using AI to interpret complex biological environments in real time. Unlike traditional minimally invasive procedures, where precision occurs at the tip of a rigid instrument, these microrobots navigate through tissue, gather data, take biopsies, and deliver treatment.The challenge is not just building devices small enough to move through living systems. As The Infinite Loop shares in this article, it is designing tools that operate in messy, unpredictable environments where fluid dynamics, anatomy, and biology constantly push back.The “mom rule” for robotsRobeauté is steering microrobotics into the neurosurgery operating room. Co-founded by Joana Cartocci and Bertrand Duplat, the Paris-based startup is developing a microrobot of 1.8 millimeters in diameter that moves through brain tissue along curved, pre-planned 3D paths instead of the straight lines imposed by today’s rigid needles.What convinced Cartocci that this could be more than a research experiment was Duplat’s personal motivation. This robotics pioneer had spent his career building robots for space, nuclear environments, and even the pyramids of Giza. Then he lost his mother to glioblastoma.“Seeing what it was like not to have the right tools to intervene meaningfully in the brain … he wanted to do something about that,” Cartocci said. Palta Studios, Robeauté The robot uses the world’s smallest micro-motor, according to Robeauté. A thin tether provides power, enables tracking and allows retrieval. The surgeon directs each action, while AI supports trajectory planning and provides real-time guidance. Unlike passive magnetic microrobots that follow external magnetic fields, Robeauté's device can follow nonlinear trajectories and pull biopsy tools or catheters behind it.Safety is non-negotiable. Cartocci calls it the “mom rule”: “If it is not safe enough for your mom, it is not safe enough for anybody.” Robeauté is now in live pre-clinical studies, with first-in-human procedures planned for 2026.Building the bridge from lab to clinicProfessor Bradley Nelson has spent more than 20 years developing machines that can move within the body. At ETH Zurich, his team focuses on one of the field's hardest problems: making microrobots visible and controllable as they navigate living tissue.His group has built a steerable capsule less than one millimeter in diameter that is guided by external magnetic fields. Iron oxide enables control, while tantalum makes it visible under fluoroscopy so surgeons can track its movement.“Visibility was one of the hardest problems,” Nelson said. “Any device used in real patients needs to be reliably imaged as it moves.”The capsule can carry a drug payload and release it at precise locations. Nelson said this could help treat hard-to-reach tumors by concentrating the dose at the disease site while reducing systemic toxicity.Control, navigation and imaging remain the core challenges. The team has spent years shaping magnetic fields to penetrate tissue safely — work that has improved existing surgical tools as well. Adding a small magnetic element to the tip of a guidewire, for example, lets surgeons steer it with greater precision. Nelson’s spinout, NanoFlex Robotics, has already demonstrated this capability by performing a remote thrombectomy with the surgeon in Zurich and the patient in Phoenix, Arizona.He expects magnetically directed guidewires to reach patients by 2026, creating a regulatory bridge for future microrobots. Nelson said advances in imaging and control will eventually open the door to AI-assisted automation in certain procedures, although he expects clinicians to remain in control for delicate tasks.Endiatx: Cutting the cost of endoscopyEndiatx, based in Hayward, California, is developing PillBot, an ingestible robot that enables clinicians to control a gastric exam in real time without the cost and complexity of traditional endoscopy. Standard diagnostic procedures can cost thousands, involve several clinical staff and require multiple visits. PillBot offers live video through a capsule that the patient swallows and must be “affordable enough to flush down the toilet,” according to Endiatx.The device uses pump-jet motors to maneuver within the stomach. A clinician views and steers it through a software interface. The goal, CEO Arman Nadershahi said, is to combine the comfort of capsule technology with real-time, operator-directed control to create a new class of robotic visualization tools.According to Endiatx, the development roadmap centers on AI and closed-loop control systems. The company is testing how machine learning algorithms can enhance image quality and stabilize the visual field as the capsule moves through the stomach.“Over time, AI could take on a greater role, enabling autonomous functions under physician supervision,” said Nadershahi.PillBot remains under development. A regulatory submission is planned for 2028.Fighting the fluid dynamics using AIProfessor MinJun Kim at Southern Methodist University in Dallas studies how microrobots move inside complex tissue. His group designs bacteria-inspired swimmers, modular magnetic robots and soft devices for drug delivery and diagnostics. The goal, he said, is to build machines that behave reliably in the body rather than only in controlled experiments.“A lot of our work focuses on understanding how these robots behave in low Reynolds number environments,” he said. “At this scale, the physics are completely counterintuitive.” Put simply, in this micro-world of human tissue, fluids are incredibly sticky. The moment the robot stops pushing, it stops moving. It’s like trying to swim through honey instead of water.Kim sees unpredictable fluid mechanics as a significant obstacle.“Biological fluids are viscoelastic and heterogeneous,” he said. “Inside the body, viscosity changes from one region to another, and that makes precise motion very challenging.”Visibility is another constraint. Optical tracking often fails within the eye or brain, so his team is developing magnetic localization enhanced with AI.“We integrate an artificial neural network with a Kalman filter so we can track microrobots even under very low signal conditions,” he said. A Kalman filter is a statistical estimator that helps the system determine the robot’s position when sensor readings are weak or noisy.Kim expects the first clinical applications to be intraocular therapies because the eye offers a confined, predictable environment. Neurovascular and cardiac uses could follow as control systems mature.Progress now depends on solving problems that traditional robotics rarely encounters, including viscoelastic fluids, sub-millimeter localization, and safe imaging inside living tissue.If these teams succeed, surgeons could gain instruments that reach areas today’s tools cannot. Biopsies could follow curved paths, drug delivery could become more targeted, and procedures could be guided by data gathered directly from within tissue.The first approvals may arrive within the next two years. What follows will show whether microrobots can take their place alongside the most precise tools in modern medicine.This story was produced by The Infinite Loop, the editorial arm of AI cloud company Nebius, and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	East Moline to have its first-ever comic convention Do you have a love for comic, video games or any interest deemed nerdy or geek? The Quad-Cities Comic Con is coming to East Moline, late May.
	Why does some rain fall harder than other rain? 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. Why does some rain fall harder than other rain? – Naomi B., age 9, San Fancisco, California There are some days when the rain falls peacefully and gently, nourishing the Earth. But on some other days the rain comes down in a torrential downpour that meteorologists like me call a cloudburst. Standing outside in one of these intense rainstorms can feel like being smothered in a heavy, wet towel. These storms can flood the lands below them and lead to great destruction. So what causes this difference? All rain comes from a combination of two things: moisture in the air – usually in the form of clouds – and currents of air moving upwards. As moist air rises up through a cloud, the air cools and the water in it turns into tiny raindrops. This is the same thing that happens when you can see your breath on a cold evening. The temperature change from warm to cool causes water droplets to form in your breath. In a cloud, these tiny raindrops are very light and float as the rising air pushes them up. But the higher they go, the larger and heavier they get. Eventually, they get so heavy that they fall to the Earth as rain. All-day drizzles come from steady storms that don’t have much upward wind flow. AP Photo/Matt Rourke via The Conversation Cold air storms are steady and slow Cold air can hold much less moisture than warm air, so wintertime clouds don’t have much water in them; they are thin and layered rather than puffy and tall and full of water. Since cold air likes to sink to the ground, it’s difficult to get that air to rise quickly, so these wintertime clouds have only gentle upward air currents. As these slow currents sweep up through the thin clouds that don’t have much moisture, small raindrops form. Gravity easily pulls them down against the air current before they get too big. When clouds are thin and the air is moving slowly, you get nice calm rain. Massive thunderstorms called supercells can form when the right weather ingredients come together. Greg Lundeen/NOAA Thunderstorms and big winter storms are quick and intense Hard rainstorms happen when there is a lot of moisture in the air and the air moves upwards very fast. Summer thunderstorms are the perfect example. The warm, moist air rises very quickly – like a hot air balloon – and can be moving as fast as 30 to 40 miles per hour. The air also holds much more moisture than winter clouds – up to five times as much. All of this creates very tall, thick clouds that are full of moisture. Water droplets form quickly as the air moves up through the clouds. But since the wind is blowing upwards so fast, the droplets can get huge before gravity drags them down to Earth. When the weight of all the water droplets gets to be too much for the wind, the wind current collapses, and all the raindrops in the cloud come crashing down at once. These are summer thunderstorms. Thunderstorms can drop one, two or even three inches of rain in less than an hour. These sudden torrential downpours, called cloudbursts, can lead to flash flooding that can overflow streams and roads and trap people wherever they are. [The Conversation’s science, health and technology editors pick their favorite stories. Weekly on Wednesdays.] Thankfully, because thunderstorms are so violent and relatively small, they don’t last very long. Once the rain falls from the clouds and squashes the upward air currents, the clouds disappear and you often see a nice blue sky. Of course, winter can deliver some strong storms too – especially over the warmer ocean water. When strong winter storms drop lots of heavy rain, the same principles are at work: lots of moisture in the air, fast upwards wind currents and tall clouds. No two rainstorms are ever the same. Sometimes clouds can rain so hard it feels like you are standing in the shower. Other times they bring only a nice peaceful drizzle. Now, whether you are soaked or singing in the rain, you’ll know why. 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. 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: Jeffrey B. Halverson, University of Maryland, Baltimore County Read more:What made the rain in Hurricane Harvey so extreme?Curious Kids: how did the first person evolve?Why you can smell rainJeffrey B. Halverson 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.
	Crime Stoppers Solved: Police identify driver who fled at 100+ mph in Ford Fusion Bettendorf police are searching for a man they say he sped away from officers at more than 100 mph.
	Man charged following weekend Amber Alert in Waterloo A man has been arrested in connection to an Amber Alert that went out Sunday for a missing 12-year-old girl from Waterloo.
	Burlington names Deputy Chief Wayne Thomson as next police chief Burlington has chosen its next police chief: a veteran deputy chief with nearly three decades of experience.
	11 marketing budget mistakes to avoid (and how to avoid them) 11 marketing budget mistakes to avoid (and how to avoid them)There is a lot of information to consider when drafting a marketing budget. Regardless of how much you spend or your marketing experience, you want to avoid common marketing budget mistakes to ensure you get the highest possible return on investment.WebFX breaks down common marketing budget mistakes and offers practical tips to help maximize ROI.1. Not setting goalsThe first marketing budget issue companies face is a lack of direction. This problem comes from a lack of goal-setting when creating your budget. If you have nothing to aim for, you won’t know how to invest and monitor your budget.And, without any goals, you won’t be able to see the progress you’ve made through your digital marketing investments, making ROI tracking nearly impossible.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Set SMART goals for your marketing budgetTrack your goals along with other marketing metricsCreate varying objectives that all contribute to larger goals2. Ignoring trends in your industryNot looking to your industry for trends is a key marketing budget issue. Every industry prioritizes different marketing channels, strategies, and tactics. If you aren’t investing in these strategies, you’ll likely fall behind competitors.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Perform competitor analyses for industry leadersResearch your industry’s preferred marketing strategiesLook at top-ranking websites and results for industry terms3. Targeting the wrong audienceIf you don’t know who you are marketing to, your budget will go to waste. Many companies don’t take the time to investigate their target audience before selecting the channels they think will work.You might be surprised at what marketing channels drive the most revenue, which is why it’s crucial to learn as much as possible about your audience.For example, a common marketing budget issue is investing in social ads without validating whether your audience is active on that platform.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Spend time researching your target audienceSegment your audience based on their demographics and create buyer personasOutline the different steps in your sales funnel and where your customers align4. Miscalculating your budgetThis marketing budget is a simple error caused by calculating your budget incorrectly. For example, if you plan your marketing budget before considering the cost of digital marketing services, you might miscalculate how much you’ll spend per month.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Check your work with any formulas you useCompile information about digital marketing pricesUtilize budget calculation tools5. Lacking dataData is everything when it comes to creating your marketing budget. If you don’t have a clear look at your customer preferences, leads, conversions, and more, you won’t be able to invest in the right channels. Your data collection methods should give you clear, accurate data about your marketing.Prioritizing customer data collection is a foundational step.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Test your data collection toolsUpgrade any out-of-date or ineffective softwareInvest in quality customer relationship management (CRM) tools6. Only using one marketing channelDiversifying your marketing approach gives you the best chance at success and growing your ROI. While it can be easy to play it safe, it’s better to invest in more channels (even if it’s a low investment) to see what works best for your company.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Evaluate your marketing approachLook at the marketing channels that other companies in your market useDiversify your advertising spend into different channels7. Information and data silosAnother marketing budget error involves information and data silos. If your marketing and sales teams don’t communicate effectively, it could lead to confusion and ineffective marketing spending.For example, if the sales team sees high engagement from pay-per-click (PPC) ads, the right move might be to invest more in that channel. But if the marketing team doesn’t have the data for those ads, they might not know how effective they are.Creating better alignment between sales and marketing teams is crucial to your budget’s effectiveness.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Combine your sales and marketing data in one place through a CRMCreate open communication channels between sales and marketing teamsTesting sales and marketing funnels and comparing their results8. Only focusing on new customersWhile it’s important to earn new customers, it’s also essential to market to past and current ones. Your customer acquisition cost (CAC) might be higher than the cost it takes to maintain customers, especially depending on your industry.Targeting existing customers with your marketing budget is essential for maximizing your investment and avoiding those high CACs. If you don’t prioritize strategies that either lower your CAC or improve customer lifetime value (CLV), you’re missing out on potential revenue.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Create specific retargeting strategies for existing customersReach out to past customers and ask for feedbackAllocate a portion of your budget strictly for retargeting9. Underinvesting in marketing strategiesWhile you don’t want to overinvest in marketing if you don’t have the funds, you also shouldn’t underinvest in strategies. Especially if those strategies have proven useful in the past.One example of this marketing budget error would be not investing in digital marketing at all or trying to do it all in-house without the proper resources. By underinvesting, you get poor results that don’t reflect your strategy’s potential.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Do research about the cost of digital marketing before setting your budgetAnalyze what strategies are bringing in the most revenue for your business10. Poor forecasting and visibilityIf your organization doesn’t have the right data to plan accurately, you might end up in a bind regarding your budget. You must have an accurate view of your budget for the year to prevent overspending and underspending.For example, if you underestimate the cost of marketing tools and software, you might overspend in the first quarter, meaning you don’t have enough budget for the rest of the year.Thinking ahead and being realistic about spending can help you prevent this common marketing budget issue.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Create marketing budget reports to share across your organizationOutline the costs associated with marketing for decision makers11. Neglecting reporting and analyticsFinally, the last major marketing budget error is neglecting your reporting and analytics. Some companies don’t test their digital marketing strategies at all, while others don’t do it often enough. Without reviewing your digital marketing approach, you could miss out on data that could help you allocate your budget effectively.How to avoid this marketing budget mistake:Account for marketing tools and ROI tracking software in your budgetTake time to analyze the data on a set schedule and compare it to your goalsThis story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	East Moline Main Street to hold fourth annual Taco & Margarita Festival with 130 vendors The Taco & Margarita Festival returns May 9 to 15th Avenue in East Moline, with organizers launching a week of sponsor spotlights ahead of the event.
	NWS confirms 6 tornadoes from April 2 severe weather event Several tornadoes caused damage across the area April 2.
	Gift Gardens program returns to help local food pantries Organizers announced plans Monday for this year’s Gift Gardens, a community garden program that donates fresh produce to local food pantries.
	City of Burlington names police chief Wayne Thompson will be officially appointed at future city council meeting.
	Paying cash for healthcare: Can it save you money? Paying cash for healthcare: Can it save you money?You don’t need health insurance to access healthcare. In fact, you can pay out of pocket for healthcare even if you have insurance. Sometimes, doing this will cost less.GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, explains more about what’s known as cash-pay healthcare.Key takeaways:Cash-pay healthcare means accessing medical treatment, preventive medicine, and wellness services without insurance. This is also known as paying out of pocket or self-pay healthcare.You can use cash-pay healthcare even when you have insurance. This is more common if you have high copays, have not met your deductible, or are underinsured.In some cases, skipping insurance and using self-pay can mean lower prices for services.What is cash-pay healthcare?Cash-pay healthcare means paying for medical services without involving insurance. It’s also known as out-of-pocket healthcare or self-pay healthcare. This just means you’ll use your own financial resources for care. Cash-pay healthcare doesn’t require currency, however. You could pay with a debit or credit card — or even a medical credit card.What are the benefits of cash-pay healthcare?Self-pay healthcare can help you reduce your expenses for medical services. Cash-pay healthcare can benefit you by:Letting you bypass using health insurance if you have coverage.Helping you avoid insurance claim denials or delays, such as prior authorization or step therapy, when you access care.Offering a lower-cost option for accessing care if you haven’t met your deductible.Offering a lower-cost option for filling a prescription if you haven’t met your deductible.Offering an alternative that costs less than your copay.Offering a lower-cost option for care than your share of the insurance plan’s negotiated rate.Letting you choose a healthcare professional who’s outside of your plan’s network.Giving you some comfort if you skip health insurance and pay directly for only the services you use.Giving you healthcare cost literacy, which clarifies pricing through healthcare price transparency.What kinds of healthcare practices accept cash pay?Here are some healthcare options you might access by paying cash:Concierge care: Concierge care is a membership-based model, often with an annual fee, which gives you direct access to a physician. Same-day appointments are usually available. Concierge care offices usually limit the number of patients and offer longer appointments. Concierge care tends to attract higher-income consumers. This type of care is also called concierge medicine, retainer-based medicine, platinum practice, and boutique medicine.Convenience care: Typically, in high-traffic areas, these healthcare facilities have transparent and flat-free pricing. Locations include retail clinics — often in pharmacies and grocery stores — and urgent care centers.Direct primary care (DPC): DPC is an alternative model for accessing medical care without insurance. You make the care arrangements with a healthcare professional and pay out of pocket. DPC may be offered by a physician, a physician assistant, or an advanced practice nurse. DPC typically covers routine care, chronic condition management, acute care, and care coordination. Emergency and hospital services aren’t included.Sliding scale care: Care at community clinics tends to cost less, but it’s not free. There are also other free and low-cost healthcare options available nationwide.Traditional healthcare with self-pay options: If you’re not using insurance to pay for medical services, you are entitled to a good faith estimate (GFE), which is an itemized list of expected costs for a scheduled service. If your bill is $400 or higher than the GFE, you can dispute the charges. In many cases, the self-pay price is lower as a discounted cash price than the standard hospital charges and negotiated insurance rates. The same can be true in other traditional healthcare settings.When should you use cash pay instead of insurance?Cash pay is an option, whether you have insurance or not. In some cases, healthcare can cost you less out of pocket when you skip your insurance. Here are reasons you might choose self-pay instead of accessing your coverage:You are underinsured and your health plan doesn’t cover the service, item, or care you need.You are underinsured and your prescription plan doesn’t cover your medication.You want to avoid prescription coverage restrictions, such as prior authorization or step therapy.You want to choose a healthcare professional who is not in your insurance plan’s network. What are alternatives to cash-pay healthcare?If you don’t have insurance, you might not be able to afford medical services out of pocket. But you may qualify for options that make your healthcare free or low cost. These alternatives include:Medicaid: If you qualify, your healthcare typically has very low out-of-pocket costs. Your expenses can be even less if you are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare.Sliding-scale care: Care at community clinics can be among the free and low-cost healthcare options. These locations are available nationwide.Patient assistance programs: If you don’t have insurance, you may qualify for free healthcare and prescription medications from patient assistance programs.Charity care: This is also known as indigent care. You may qualify if you are medically indigent. This means medical bills and medical debt threaten your financial stability. You’re financially indigent if you’re uninsured or underinsured and your household income is below a certain threshold. Nonprofit hospitals are legally required to offer this type of financial assistance. Some for-profit hospitals do too.What are the drawbacks of cash-pay healthcare?If you have health insurance, the main drawback of cash-pay healthcare is that your spending typically doesn’t count toward your deductible. Sometimes it’s more strategic to self-pay if you don’t expect to meet your deductible. But be mindful that meeting your deductible is typically the only way someone with insurance gets cost-sharing relief before the year ends.Another drawback is the unexpected cost of care that’s not coordinated and negotiated. This is particularly common for a complex procedure without a bundled price because you will receive bills for physician services, the care of other medical professionals, facility fees, and, potentially, other charges. If you have health insurance, always weigh the costs, benefits, and drawbacks when choosing to pay on your own.Frequently asked questionsIs self-pay the same as cash-pay healthcare?Yes, self-pay healthcare is the same as cash-pay healthcare. You are responsible for the costs and will not be using insurance.Can you cash pay even if you have insurance?Yes. People do this all the time for different reasons.Do cash-pay transactions count toward your deductible?Cash-pay services typically don’t count toward your deductible. But you can ask your insurance plan about your spending outside coverage to see if your expenses can be considered.The bottom lineCash-pay healthcare — also called self-pay healthcare — means accessing medical services and paying the bill without involving insurance. It’s also known as out-of-pocket healthcare. Benefits include bypassing health insurance and coverage limits that delay care and may involve more out-of-pocket spending. You may also be able to access care for a lower price than your share of negotiated insurance rates, which tend to be higher than cash prices. It’s important to note that if you have insurance and pay on your own, what you spend typically doesn’t apply to your deductible.This story was produced by GoodRx and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Rye Davis Band performing at Bishop Hill Creative Commons The Rye Davis Band will perform an evening of authentic country music on Saturday, April 11 at Bishop Hill Creative Commons, 309 Bishop Hill Street. The evening starts at 6 p.m. with an optional potluck dinner so guests can gather and connect before the performance. Attendees are welcome to bring a dish to share if [...]
	Medical supplies are stuck in Dubai, as clinics around the world face shortages The war in Iran has slowed down international shipping, much of which contains medical and humanitarian goods destined for Asia and Africa.
	What it really means to ‘crash out’ What it really means to ‘crash out’New slang terms are constantly being created to describe our emotional experiences. One phrase that’s been gaining popularity on social media is to “crash out.” People usually use this term to describe when they’re feeling intensely emotional, to the point of feeling out of control. Merriam-Webster defines it as “becom[ing] suddenly, uncontrollably angry or distressed.”We all crash out sometimes, but certain conditions may make you more likely to have these intense emotions. Therapy can help you learn to regulate your emotions and find healthy outlets for your feelings.In this article, Rula examines what “crashing out” really means.Key Takeaways“Crashing out” usually refers to suddenly feeling overwhelmed by emotions to the point that you feel out of control.It’s different from burnout. “Crashing out” tends to come on quickly and feel intense rather than gradually building over time.Certain mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions can make emotional regulation harder, which could make “crash outs” more common.Signs you’re on the verge of “crashing out”Crashing out isn’t an officially recognized term, so there are no clinical signs or symptoms of it. But, generally, when we talk about crashing out, we’re referring to feeling so overwhelmed by emotions that we feel out of control. People might use the term “spiraling” to describe this experience too.When people say they’re crashing out, they usually mean they’re having an intense emotional experience or breakdown — not that they’re slowly becoming more stressed over time. This is different from being burned out, which is a term that’s recognized in research literature. A crash out tends to be more sudden and uncontrollable than burnout.For example, you might suddenly crash out upon receiving upsetting news, like losing your job. But you can burn out at your job because you’ve been stressed and underappreciated for a long time.Because crash outs can come on so suddenly, it can be hard to predict when you’re about to feel this way. But some signs that you’re crashing out include:You feel suddenly and intensely angry.You feel so intensely emotional that you feel like you can’t cope.You feel out of control.Your heart is pounding, or your breathing becomes fast and shallow.You’re crying uncontrollably or yelling without thinking.You feel like you need to escape the situation immediately.You act impulsively in a way you might regret later.Why we “crash out” sometimesWe can crash out for a wide range of reasons, from superficial to serious. People use the term crashing out both to describe genuinely painful emotional experiences, as well as to exaggerate their emotional reactions to relatively “trivial” events. For example, you might crash out over a breakup or a bad grade you got on an exam. But you might also crash out over celebrity gossip.Because the term isn’t recognized or related to any specific mental health condition, it’s OK to use it when you feel it’s appropriate.But some conditions can make it more difficult to regulate your emotions — making you more likely to crash out more often. These conditions include:Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): People with ADHD can have trouble with emotional regulation. They may also experience rejection sensitive dysphoria and sensory sensitivities. So if you have ADHD, you might be more likely to crash out over things like feeling ignored by someone you care about or getting overwhelmed by noise or chaos.Autism: Autism is another neurodevelopmental condition, like ADHD, that can make it more difficult to manage emotions. You might crash out when routines change suddenly or when you’re overloaded by sensory input.Depression: If you live with depression you may be more likely to feel hopeless or overwhelmed by small setbacks. When you feel this way, it can become easier to crash out over things that might not usually upset you.Anxiety: Anxiety can make you crash out over stressors. For example, if you live with social anxiety disorder, then you might crash out because you felt like you didn’t “perform” well in front of others at a social event.Borderline personality disorder: One of the symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD) is having intense mood swings and emotions, especially when you’re feeling abandoned. So you might crash out if someone doesn’t text you back or you feel rejected by someone you love.Crashing out sometimes — especially in reaction to a trigger — isn’t necessarily a sign that you live with one of these conditions. But if you’re also experiencing other symptoms, seeing a mental health professional could help you figure out what’s going on.Four steps for when you’re “crashing out”Crashing out can feel scary. But it’s important to remember that feelings are temporary, and they’ll pass with time.If you feel like you’re crashing out or feeling out of control, these steps can help you feel calmer:1. Use your breath intentionally.When you’re crashing out, your nervous system is in overdrive. It feels like you’re out of control, but there are conscious ways that you can calm your body and mind.One way is to use your breath intentionally. When you breathe deeply and slowly — for example, with a diaphragmatic breathing technique — you can interrupt your body’s stress response and help you physically calm down.2. Remember you’re in control.Part of what makes crash outs feel so intense is that they make you feel completely out of control. Try to remember that these emotions will pass. Emotions typically last up to 90 seconds. It’s where our thoughts go that keep them lingering.Small steps, like grounding yourself or practicing mindfulness, can remind you that you’re safe in the present moment.3. Talk about it.If you keep all your emotions bottled up, it might actually make you feel worse. Acknowledge that you’re having intense feelings, and talk about them with someone you trust. Tell them how you’re feeling and why.But even if you feel upset, avoid lashing out at others in anger. Just tell them clearly how they can support you. For example, you might say something like, “I’m crashing out, and I just need someone to listen.”4. Try therapy.It’s normal to crash out sometimes, regardless of the reason. But if your crash out isn’t getting easier to deal with over time — or if you think that a mental health or neurodevelopmental condition could be making you crash out more often — therapy may be essential. A therapist can help you understand your emotional triggers and learn tools to manage overwhelming feelings more effectively.A clinician’s take“Before an emotional crash, people often miss signs like feeling detached, irritable, or suddenly unmotivated,” said Ashley Ayala, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “They may keep pushing through fatigue or emotional overload instead of slowing down to recharge. Catching this ahead of time can help prevent a crash out.”Find care“Crashing out” is a term that’s gained popularity recently to describe a state of emotional intensity. It can feel scary and unpredictable to crash out, but know that it’s a common experience. With the right tools and support, you can learn to understand what triggers these intense emotions — and how to respond before things feel out of control.This story was produced by Rula and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	United Way Quad Cities CEO stepping down CEO Rene Gellerman, who joined the organization in 2018, announced she will step down in June.
	It’s time to clean your gutters again. Here’s a step-by-step guide It’s time to clean your gutters again. Here’s a step-by-step guideWhen taking stock of all the home maintenance projects on your agenda this season, your gutters may be out of sight, out of mind. But clearing all the crud out of your home’s gutters at least twice a year — once in fall and once in spring — is essential for preventing water damage and other costly home repairs.If you rarely give the matter much thought, it’s time to get your mind in the gutters. HomeServe walks through a few effective methods for cleaning your gutters — some of which don’t even involve climbing up a ladder:Cleaning Your Gutters From the GroundIf your gutters aren’t severely clogged, spraying out your gutters with a garden hose can be a fairly easy way to get the job done. That is, if you have a gutter-cleaning wand attachment for your hose. These specially designed wands attach to your hose and have a long, curved end that allows you to control the water to push the debris out of the gutter. Expect things to get a little messy, as leaves, mud, twigs, critter corpses and other debris will likely get blasted over the edge of the gutter as you work.If you’ve neglected your gutters for a long while, you may need to use a pressure washer to clean them. The high pressure should clear out any stubborn debris that’s accumulated over time. Just like with the garden hose, you’ll need a special gutter-cleaning wand if you plan to clean from the ground, but the concept is the same: Spray the hose through the gutters until the water flows freely through them.Cleaning Gutters on a LadderAlthough it’s not as safe as cleaning your gutters from the ground, using a ladder gives you better access and control. When using a ladder to access your gutters, make sure you use an extension ladder, ideally with a ladder stabilizer attached. These attachments help keep the ladder from sliding or tipping over by bracing the ladder against your home's siding. Stabilizers are especially helpful when you’re handling tools and equipment while atop the ladder. Also, enlist the help of a trusted spotter, if someone’s available.You can use a garden hose or pressure washer to clean your gutters from a ladder, just as you would from the ground. Although you won’t necessarily need a gutter-cleaning attachment, you’ll need to reposition your ladder periodically as you work your way along the roof’s edge.A surefire method for cleaning clogged gutters is to simply do it by hand. It might take longer, but cleaning by hand ensures a thorough job. To clean gutters manually, you’ll need some work gloves, a bucket or trash bag to place the debris you’ve cleared out, and a gutter scoop — although a garden trowel or plastic children’s shovel will work just fine. After shoveling out debris and placing it in your disposal receptacle, grab your garden hose and flush out the gutters and downspouts. If you detect any clogs in your downspout, you can use a plumber's snake to dislodge the clog, then resume flushing with the hose.Prevention Is KeyCleaning your gutters can be a time-consuming project, especially if it’s been a woefully long while since you last did it. To save time and energy, make it a point to clean them at least twice a year, preventing excess debris from building up and making your job quicker and easier.For added protection, consider installing gutter guards or strainers. While they’ll still require a thorough annual cleaning, gutter guards prevent leaves and other larger debris from accumulating and clogging up your gutter system.When it comes to gutter cleaning, regular maintenance and prevention are key to making the job as quick and painless as possible — giving you more time to spend knocking out those other home maintenance tasks that are closer to the ground where you can see them.This story was produced by HomeServe Editorial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Bettendorf hosting Friendship Park ribbon cutting Quad City families can check out the newest playground equipment in the area at a ribbon-cutting on Friday. Bettendorf will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Friendship Park, 5033 White Post Road, on Friday, April 10 at 4 p.m. The city installed a brand-new, $171,027 state-of-the-art playground system at the park following a Community Input Event [...]
	Dream acquire 2-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese from Sky for first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028 The Atlanta Dream have acquired two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky in exchange for Atlanta’s first-round picks in 2027 and 2028.
	Galesburg schools seek community input in superintendent selection Galesburg CUSD #205 begins its search for a new superintendent as Dr. John Asplund plans to retire in 2027, with a community survey now open.
	Trump set to hold press conference after profanity-laced post on Iran The president has had mixed messages about how and when the U.S.-Israel-led war in Iran will end.
	Trump holds s press conference after profanity-laced post on Iran The president has had mixed messages about how and when the U.S.-Israel-led war in Iran will end.
	Trump holds a press conference after profanity-laced post on Iran The president has had mixed messages about how and when the U.S.-Israel-led war in Iran will end.
	6 steps to confirm your digital safety 6 steps to confirm your digital safetyOnline access is likely essential for how you live your life. Whether managing finances, shopping for necessities, planning a trip, or interacting with friends and neighbors, many are doing those things online.When your personal data is constantly in motion, keeping it safe is essential. The good news is that protecting yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking a few deliberate steps on a regular basis, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to hacks, data breaches, or identity theft.“The digital landscape continues to evolve with new data breaches and new ways of scamming people,” says Tika Batra, cybersecurity leader at Forbright Bank. “Regular checks to your data can help you protect your financial data and catch potential threats early.”Follow these six steps to conduct a review of your digital safety.1. Audit Your Social Media Privacy Settings   Social media platforms are common entry points for bad actors, and they find success because users often leave their profiles more open than they realize. Visit the privacy settings on every platform you use to determine who can see your posts, your contact information, and your friend or follower list.When possible, set your profiles to private or “friends only.” Be especially cautious about what personal details are publicly available, such as your phone number, email address, hometown, or workplace. Also, review any third-party apps that have been granted access through your social accounts and revoke permissions for any you no longer use or recognize.2. Update Software RegularlyKeeping your software up to date is one of the most powerful things you can do for your digital security. Cybercriminals routinely exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated operating systems, browsers, and apps. Updates from your smartphone or software provider are designed to patch those vulnerabilities.If possible, enable automatic updates on your devices, including your phone’s operating system, your laptop, web browser, and any applications you use regularly. Don’t ignore those update notifications, as they may be more important than they seem. A device running outdated software essentially leaves a window cracked open for intruders.3. Review App Permissions Take a few minutes to look through the apps installed on your device and consider what access you’ve granted them. Many apps request permissions that go well beyond what they need to function. For example, a recipe app doesn’t always need access to your location, and a flashlight app doesn’t need access to your contacts.You can review and manage app permissions in your device settings. Look through categories like location, microphone, camera, contacts, and photos. Aim to grant apps only the minimum permissions needed for them to do their jobs, and nothing more.4. Use a Password ManagerIf you’re still reusing the same password across multiple accounts, you’re taking a significant risk. When one site suffers a data breach, every account sharing that password becomes vulnerable, Batra says. The solution is to use strong, unique passwords for every account—and a password manager can help you keep up with all of them.A password manager will generate and store complex passwords for you, so you only must remember one master password. It may also flag any of your saved passwords that have appeared in known data breaches.5. Enable Advanced Authentication  Wherever possible, turn on multi-factor or biometric authentication for your accounts to add another layer of verification.Multi-factor authentication typically involves a code sent to your phone or generated by an app, so that even if someone obtains your password, they still can’t access your account without that second factor. Biometric authentication uses your face or fingerprint to allow login. Prioritize enabling advanced authentication on your email, banking, and social media accounts, as these may be the highest value targets for financial fraud.6. Monitor Your Financial Accounts  At least once a month, take time to review your bank and credit card statements and other financial accounts. “Review transactions and login alerts to make sure everything looks normal,” Batra says. “If you see any surprises, follow up and get them corrected.”Digital safety isn’t a one-time fix. To protect yourself and your finances, it’s important to create an ongoing practice of digital safety reviews. Consider setting a reminder to run through these checks regularly. A little vigilance can go a long way toward keeping your data and your identity safe.Disclaimer: This article is for general information and education only. It should not be considered financial or tax advice.This story was produced by Forbright Bank and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	United Way Quad Cities CEO to step down Gellerman has been with United Way Quad Cities since 2018.
	What is debt consolidation, and how does it work? What is debt consolidation, and how does it work?Debt consolidation combines multiple debts into one payment, possibly with a lower interest rate. In this article, OneMain Financial explains how debt consolidation can clear the way for you to move ahead.If you’re juggling multiple loans and credit card balances, keeping up with monthly payments might seem impossible. That’s where debt consolidation comes in.Debt consolidation is a solution that combines multiple debts into one manageable monthly payment. This can be a great way to help you get out of debt, simplify finances and maybe even free up your budget.Let’s break down what you need to know about debt consolidation to help you take control of your finances and breathe more easily.What is debt consolidation?Debt consolidation is a way to pay off multiple debts, typically those with a high interest rate, by combining them into a single, more manageable monthly payment.How does debt consolidation work?Here’s how debt consolidation works using a debt consolidation loan. Let’s say your debt from credit cards, installment loans and medical bills totals $9,000. If you take out a debt consolidation loan for that amount, you then use your new loan to pay off those outstanding debts, leaving you with just one loan to manage.The right debt consolidation loan could potentially reduce the amount of your total monthly payments, giving you more room in your budget and a path out of debt.It's important to note that debt consolidation is different from debt settlement or credit counseling. A debt settlement agency (DSA) will try to negotiate with your creditors to reduce your balances. A DSA will charge fees for its services and may suggest strategies that can impact your credit. Credit counseling agencies, on the other hand, are generally nonprofits that provide advice on how to manage your debts and may work with you to figure out a payment plan.With debt consolidation, you focus on simplifying your monthly payments to more easily pay down debt — sometimes even lowering those payment amounts depending on the interest rate and term.Types of debt consolidationYou can combine your debt and put a plan in place in a few ways: with a personal loan for debt consolidation, a credit card with a balance transfer offer, or a home equity loan.Personal loan for debt consolidationA personal loan is a lump sum of money you can borrow from a lender, bank, or credit union and repay in fixed monthly payments, at a fixed interest rate, with a predetermined payoff date. This kind of predictability makes it easier to confidently manage your budget, both now and long term, because, unlike a credit card, you know exactly what you’ll pay each month and when the loan will be completely paid off. Another benefit of a debt consolidation loan is the potential for a lower interest rate or lower monthly payments.While the debt doesn’t go away when you choose consolidation, you might save money on interest if your new loan interest rate is lower than what you pay now.Some lenders, banks, and credit unions may restrict the types of debt you can consolidate with a personal loan, so be sure to check before you apply.How to applyMany lenders will let you see if you prequalify before you apply for a loan. While applying for multiple loans may affect your credit score, checking for prequalified offers will not. Prequalifying gives you a snapshot of what loan amount might be available to you before submitting your full application.Choose the offer that works best for you and then submit your application. The lender will typically require you to provide your personal and financial information, such as proof of identity, residence, and income. They will also do a hard credit check, which can have a small, temporary impact on your credit score. If your loan application is approved, review the loan documents during the loan closing phase.How repayment worksOnce you’ve signed the loan documents, the funds can be disbursed. Payment times vary by lender.Once the money is available, you or your new lender will send your creditors the funds needed to pay off the debts you're consolidating. Then you’ll start making one monthly payment to the new lender to pay off the debt consolidation loan. Be sure to always make your payments on time and in full to avoid late fees or additional interest, which may slow your progress in paying off your debt and erase any savings you might have gained with the debt consolidation loan.Credit card with a balance transfer optionSome credit cards allow you to transfer your existing high-interest debt from other credit cards or loans to a card with a potentially lower interest rate.Many credit cards offer a 0% introductory or promotional annual percentage rate (APR) period when you use them for a balance transfer. During the low-APR offer period, which can range from 12 to 21 months or more, you can benefit from a low or 0% interest rate on the transferred balance.But remember that the honeymoon period for your lower interest rate will end. Be sure to have a plan to pay off that transferred balance before the low-APR offer period is over. If you only make the minimum payment each month, you may not pay off all your debt before the no-promotional interest rate kicks in.How to applyYou’ll apply for a credit card with a balance transfer offer just like you do with any other credit card. You’ll have to qualify based on factors like your credit history and financial information. Many credit cards charge a balance transfer fee, generally around 3% to 5% of the amount you’re transferring.4 You typically can’t apply for a new credit card with a balance transfer offer if you already have an account with that credit card issuer. However, you may be able to use an existing credit card for a balance transfer if you have enough available credit. Ask your card issuer for more details.If approved for a credit card with a balance transfer offer, you can provide the card issuer with information about the debt you want to consolidate, including the creditors’ names, debt amounts, and account numbers. Depending on the issuer, you may use the card to repay the debts yourself, or the credit card issuer will handle the payments once the balance transfer is approved.How repayment worksYou would start repaying your balance to your new card issuer in the same way you would make payments to a conventional credit card, with a minimum payment due each month. Because it’s a credit card, you’ll also be able to make purchases on it, but be cautious about spending unnecessarily and accumulating unwanted and expensive debt. Note that purchases may not be subject to the low promotional APR, so be sure to check the terms of the agreement before using your card to shop. The card’s nonpromotional APR will apply once the offer period ends, which could make any remaining balance more expensive to repay, so be sure to check when the promotional APR expires and plan to pay off the transferred balance before that date.Home equity loanA home equity loan allows you to borrow funds against your home’s equity — the difference between what you presently owe on your mortgage and the market value of your home. You can use the funds you receive from a home equity loan to pay off your existing debt.How to applyYou can typically apply for a home equity loan with your existing mortgage provider, or another bank or credit union.How repayment worksIf you’re approved for the loan, you’ll receive the funds in one lump sum payment. You can use the funds to help you pay off your existing high-interest debt and repay the home equity loan in fixed monthly installments.It's important to note that a home equity loan is a secured loan, meaning your home is considered collateral (something valuable that you possess to back the loan). If you’re unable to make your loan payments, you could lose your collateral — in this case, your home.Simplify your finances with debt consolidationDebt consolidation could be a game-changer if you’re feeling overwhelmed by multiple debts. Combining your loans and credit card balances into a single, manageable payment can simplify your finances and provide a clear path to paying off your debt. However, it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons to determine if debt consolidation is right for you.Matt Diehl contributed to this article.This story was produced by OneMain Financial and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

Tuesday, April 7th, 2026

Monday, April 6th, 2026