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

Monday, July 27th, 2026
	The Harlequin This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.What follows is a second-hand Rock Island story; I was not there. It may be one of those stories that are true rather…
	How did you become a Deadhead? Beginning Aug. 1, NPR Music will publish a week-long list of stories and podcast episodes exploring the legacy and future of the Grateful Dead. And we want to hear from you!
	Baltimore will turn 911 into more than just an emergency number Baltimore is rethinking what it means to call 911, and who responds. Callers who don't need police will get help finding social services and healthcare before they actually fall into crisis.
	Kalshi attacks Wisconsin law banning election bets as 'voter suppression' The spat between the leading prediction market company and a key battleground state could be a glimpse into the next major fight between states and the fast-growing industry.
	Dangerous Heat & Humidity & Storms Possible This Afternoon Heat indices could reach 115 degrees as organized thunderstorms threaten damaging winds
	Extreme Heat Warning until MON 10:00 PM CDT Extreme Heat Warning in Effect Until 10 PM CDT
	Special Weather Statement until MON 7:00 AM CDT Dense Fog Advisory for Eastern Iowa and Northwest Illinois Tonight
	Can the U.S. and Iran take the off-ramp? The U.S. military has paused its airstrikes on Iran after nearly two weeks of intensifying bombing, while diplomatic efforts have pushed forward to try to avert a return to all-out war.
	Cook review: Everyone should be talking about 'Motor City's' action "The Odyssey" continues to draw a well-deserved audience in theaters. But when it comes to action, everybody should be talking about "Motor City," too. This is, more or less, a silent movie, with a handful of spoken words, much like John Woo's "Silent Night." It's a gritty, violent, no-holds barred action flick that would have [...]
	With just a few primary elections to go, the competitive Senate map keeps shifting For Democrats to take control of the U.S. Senate, they have to flip 4 seats currently held by Republicans. Republicans, meanwhile, are playing defense and pickup opportunities are harder to find.
Sunday, July 26th, 2026
	5 Ways to Naturally Support Summer Energy and Focus (Feature Impact) Summertime means sunshine, longer days, family vacations and social events everywhere you look - but summer can slip away if you feel too tired and distracted to make the most of your experiences. According to a survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of Botanic Tonics, many adults ages 21 and older struggle to feel fully present in summer activities. Nearly half of respondents said having enough energy and a clear mind would help them get more enjoyment out of the summer moments that matter most. With that in mind, here are five simple daily habits to support your energy and focus throughout the rest of the summer season. Improve Your Sleep Quality It might sound obvious, but getting better sleep should be a top priority for anyone trying to harness more physical and mental energy throughout the day. Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet; avoid consuming caffeine too close to bedtime; and wind down with a relaxing routine like reading or yoga. Get Regular Exercise Even though a workout consumes energy in the short term, it pays you back with dividends. Just 30 minutes of movement a day - including favorite summer activities like swimming or playing games in the yard - can improve your mood. Physical movement also helps reduce stress, which was a reported obstacle for 33% of survey respondents who wished they could be more present with friends and family during the summer months. Stay Hydrated When the weather is hot, it becomes more important to stay on top of your hydration. Even mild dehydration can negatively impact your energy and focus. When you're out of the house, bring a reusable water bottle and set reminders to drink regularly, especially during and after outdoor activities. Limit Device Usage When you're feeling sluggish, it can be tempting to collapse on the couch or in bed to scroll on your phone or watch TV. There's nothing wrong with screen time in moderation, but digital fatigue is real and it can drain your energy and disrupt your sleep. Plus, 49% of surveyed adults said social-media-driven FOMO ("fear of missing out") made it harder for them to enjoy their summer experiences in the moment. Try Botanical Energy Offerings When energy levels start to dip, it's easy to reach for a cup of coffee, a sugary energy drink or soda. Products made with thoughtfully sourced botanical ingredients offer a different approach. For example, Botanic Tonics' "feel free" kava-centric supplements are designed to deliver chilled energy: a unique combination of energy, focus and elevated mood. For smooth, sustained energy without caffeine jitters or sugar crashes, try KavaMat , crafted with noble kava root and yerba mat . For those looking to elevate their mood and enhance focus, feel free Classic is thoughtfully crafted with noble kava root and natural whole leaf kratom - never synthetic ingredients, alcohol or concentrates. Learn more about these products, responsible consumption and where to purchase at BotanicTonics.com. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Beyond Protein: 2 Nutrients Your Plate Might Be Missing (Feature Impact) Everyone is talking about protein these days whether watching their weight or managing a disease like type 2 diabetes. However, fiber and healthy fats are nutrients many people are overlooking. The latest reports show most Americans already meet or exceed recommendations for protein while nearly all (about 95%) do not eat enough fiber, and many people consume too much saturated fat versus unsaturated fat, according to the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Prioritizing ways to get more fiber and healthy fats on your plate could be key to managing weight and type 2 diabetes goals this summer. One food that makes it easier to invest in your health, according to nutrition experts: avocados. A growing body of research and materials from Avocados - Love One Today, a science-based resource, suggests fresh avocados offer weight management benefits, help with type 2 diabetes management and are good for blood sugar management. According to a study* of more than 27,000 adults published in the journal "Internal Medicine Review," people who ate just over half of an avocado per day weighed 7.5 pounds less, had smaller waist sizes and tended to have healthier overall eating habits, including higher intakes of fiber and healthy fats, compared to people who didn't eat avocados. Among the list of benefits, this delicious and healthy fruit uniquely contains fiber and healthy fats in each nutrient-dense bite which slows digestion, helping you feel satisfied and fuller longer which can help you consume fewer calories overall. In fact, if you're using a GLP-1, avocados are one of the foods to add to your menu to make small meals feel more filling and satisfying while supporting nutrient needs. Scientists also recently took a second look at the largest study* about avocado consumption to-date involving close to 1,000 adults, per the journal "Current Developments in Nutrition," and found that consistently eating one avocado every day for six months (no other diet changes required) significantly reduced dietary glycemic load (GL) by nearly 14 points, a metric that evaluates how what you are eating is affecting your blood sugar levels. GL may be an important consideration in the management of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. By slowing digestion, fiber and healthy fats also support stable blood sugar levels. There are many ways to enjoy avocados, including chopped, sliced, mashed, blended, in baked goods or even frozen. Avocados add flavor, variety and nutrition across the day. Try these recipes for Avocado and Blueberry Chia Pudding, Avocado Breakfast Bowl with Leafy Greens for your next breakfast or snack. *Remember: Small, consistent food choices can add up over time. Research suggests regularly eating avocados may support weight management and blood sugar targets while providing the fiber and healthy fats that many Americans are overlooking. These studies were supported by the Avocado Nutrition Center. While these findings are encouraging, the studies highlighted show an association, not cause and effect, and thus more research is needed to confirm these findings in other populations. To explore evidence-based avocado nutrition information, along with practical tips and easy recipes, visit Avocados - Love One Today, a leading resource for avocado nutrition information. Avocado and Blueberry Chia Pudding 1 1/2 cups plain, unsweetened soy milk (or milk of choice) 1 ripe, fresh avocado, halved, pitted and peeled 3/4 cup frozen blueberries 1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1/3 cup chia seeds To Serve: 1/3 cup granola 1/3 cup fresh blueberries 1 kiwi, chopped 1/2 fresh, ripe avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and chopped In blender, puree soy milk, avocado, blueberries, yogurt and maple syrup until smooth. Pour mixture into storage container or bowl and add chia seeds. Whisk well to combine. Cover with lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight, until thickened. To serve, divide into bowls and top with granola, fresh blueberries, kiwi and avocado. Notes: Use any milk (dairy or non-dairy) that you prefer in pudding. Use fresh blueberries or conventional frozen blueberries. Other topping options include: nuts, seeds, hemp hearts, sliced banana or strawberries, or nut butter. Avocado Breakfast Bowl with Leafy Greens Bowl: 1 medium sweet potato, chopped (about 1 3/4 cup) nonstick cooking spray 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup quinoa 1 cup water, plus additional for boiling eggs, divided 2 eggs 2 cups arugula 1 ripe, fresh avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and chopped 1/4 cup pickled red onions Avocado Tahini Dressing: 1/2 large avocado 1/4 cup tahini 1 lemon, juice only (2 tablespoons) 3/4 cup water 1 tablespoon fresh chives salt, to taste pepper, to taste Preheat oven to 400 F. Add chopped sweet potato to baking sheet. Spray with cooking oil then add smoked paprika, garlic powder and salt. Toss to coat in spices. Bake 22-25 minutes, or until tender. In medium saucepan, add quinoa and water. Bring to simmer and cover, cooking 12-15 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and fluffy. Fill small saucepan with water and bring to boil. Use slotted spoon to lower eggs into water. Cook 8 minutes then transfer eggs to bowl of ice water to cool before peeling. To make dressing: In small blender, puree avocado, tahini, lemon juice, water and fresh chives until smooth. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed, to thin until pourable. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Assemble bowls, each with 1/2 sweet potato, 1/2 cup quinoa, 1 egg, 1 cup arugula, 1/2 avocado, 2 tablespoons pickled red onion and 3 tablespoons dressing. Reserve remaining dressing in refrigerator. Heart-Healthy Frozen Avocado Banana Paleta 1 ripe, fresh avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and diced 4 cups orange juice 2 medium bananas, peeled and sliced 1 tablespoon lime juice 8 paper cups (5 ounces) 8 wooden craft sticks In blender, blend avocado, orange juice, bananas and lime juice on high until smooth. Divide into paper cups. Cover cups with aluminum foil. Insert one stick through center of each foil. Freeze 4 hours until firm.
	5 Tips to Make Hosting Easy and Fun (Feature Impact) From celebratory parties to casual get-togethers, hosting is a wonderful way to bring people together, share laughs and make memories. Of course, planning and hosting can be quite a bit of work, so a little preparation can go a long way to ensure an enjoyable time for everyone, including the host. Follow these tips from the hosting experts at Bravo, makers of eco-friendly, high-performance paper towels, to plan your next gathering so it goes off without a hitch. Keep the Menu Simple Naturally, you want to make sure your guests are well-fed and happy, but trying to achieve a Michelin-star rating in your home kitchen is usually just a recipe for stressing yourself out. If you're serving a meal, stick to some tried-and-true crowd-pleasers you can make in your sleep. Cook or bake in advance as much as possible so you'll have less to worry about on the day itself. Let Guests Know What to Bring Good houseguests often enjoy contributing something, so make it easy for them - and yourself - by letting them know how they can help. You could ask one person to bring snacks, another to pick up beverages and a third to cover dessert. Potluck-style lunches or dinners are a great way to make sure everyone has enough to eat and drink while taking the pressure off just one person's shoulders. Have a Backup Plan In case you're arranging an outdoor get-together, remember the weather can betray you. Keep alternative plans on standby in case you need to move the party indoors. Tidy up your living areas and ensure there is enough seating for everyone attending. It doesn't hurt to have indoor-friendly entertainment options available too - often, people are content to just sit and chat with one another, but depending on the crowd, classic party games can still be a hit. Set Up Kids' Zones If you'll be welcoming children to your home, provide one or two dedicated areas where they can safely play and enjoy themselves away from the rest of the action. Having an assortment of toys, games, coloring books, chalk, bubble wands and other sources of kid-friendly fun makes it easy for the whole family to have a great time. Make Prep and Cleanup a Breeze Keeping quality cleaning supplies on hand like Bravo paper towels means you can quickly wipe up spills and messes while you're prepping. Then, after your guests depart, the strong, absorbent sheets make it easy to get your countertops sparkling again. They're made with 75% curbside recycled paper and cardboard, making them sustainable-household-approved. Use them with water or your go-to cleaning solution before enjoying some well-deserved post-hosting relaxation in your fresh, clean home. "Hosting can put paper towels to work, from quick countertop wipes to stuck-on foods and bigger cleanup jobs," said chef and lifestyle expert Jamie Gwen. "Bravo has a clothlike feel that is soft on your hands, but it is still durable enough for scrubbing and strong enough to rinse and reuse." Find more smart cleaning tips at BravoTowel.com.
	The Nutrient-Packed Fruit Families are Adding to Their Fruit Bowls (Feature Impact) Busy families are looking for snacks that do more than simply satisfy hunger - they want foods that deliver great taste along with meaningful nutrition. That's one reason kiwifruit has become one of the fastest-growing fruits in the produce department with more shoppers discovering its sweet taste and impressive nutritional benefits. With its vibrant golden flesh, smooth skin and juicy tropical-sweet flavor, an option like Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit makes it easy to enjoy a snack that's as delicious as it is nourishing. Whether packed into lunchboxes, sliced over breakfast or enjoyed straight from the fruit bowl, it's a simple way to add more nutrition to everyday routines. Why Every Bite Matters Kiwifruit is one of the most nutrient-dense fruits available, making it an ideal choice for busy families looking to maximize nutrition with minimal effort. When time is tight, choosing foods that deliver whole food nutrition becomes essential. Naturally packed with vitamins and minerals, Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit provides 100% of your daily vitamin C needs in just one fruit. They also provide potassium to support normal muscle and nerve function, vitamin E to help protect cells from everyday damage and folate to support healthy cell growth and development. Sweet Flavor, Endless Possibilities The versatility of sweet kiwifruit allows it to pair beautifully with everything from smoothies and yogurt bowls to salads, desserts and savory dishes. For a fresh twist on breakfast, brunch or an afternoon snack, try this Kiwi and Whipped Feta Toast. Creamy whipped feta, ripe avocado and slices of sweet kiwi come together for a delicious balance of vitamins, minerals and vibrant flavor that's as nourishing as it is satisfying. Discover more delicious ways to get more nutrition from every bite, including recipes, at Zespri.com. Kiwi and Whipped Feta Toast 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 8 small rustic bread slices, 3/4-inch thick, toasted 2 Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit, peeled and thinly sliced 1 firm but ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced extra-virgin olive oil fresh basil In small food processor, process crumbled feta cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth. Spread equal amounts onto bread slices and top with alternating slices of kiwi and avocado. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with basil before serving. Optional: Add 1 tablespoon tahini sauce to feta for richer flavor. Variation: Omit avocado and use three kiwis. Sprinkle lightly with chopped Kalamata olives. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with snipped fresh oregano and crushed red pepper flakes.
	Back-to-School Sandwiches to Nourish Kids' Bodies and Minds (Feature Impact) When you picture a schoolchild sitting down at a cafeteria table and opening their lunchbox, you're probably already imagining there's a sandwich inside. After all, it's a classic back-to-school staple that parents rely on for ease, convenience and nutrition when they're trying to get everyone out the door on time - all you have to do is put bread and fillings together, and you're good to go. That, of course, only leaves the question of which bread and fillings to choose. A new survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of Nature's Own indicated that modern parents care a lot about nutrition when deciding which kind of bread to buy, with 88% of survey respondents agreeing that feeding their kids wholesome bread feels like an easy parenting win. With clean, simple ingredients that balance taste and nutrition, Nature's Own bread supports an attainably healthy lifestyle for busy families. Whether you choose a classic white bread, reach for a whole-wheat loaf or need to account for dietary restrictions, you can feel confident you're selecting bread that's free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. For a nutritious lunch that fits the bill for 85% of parents who show strong interest in breads made with whole grains, pack this Ham, Turkey, Bacon and Cheese Pocket made with honey wheat bread. The flavorful mixture of deli meats and American cheese baked to perfection make every bite satisfying. Consider getting the whole family involved assembly-line style to make multiple batches at once, cutting down on time in the kitchen during the week ahead while encouraging learning opportunities as kids count ingredients and measure fillings. Some school days call for simple, fun comfort food, and that's where the Fluffernutter comes in. Soft bread, creamy peanut butter and fluffy marshmallow make for a combination that nourishes kids of all ages not just physically, but emotionally. Whether you pack it as a lunchbox surprise or have it ready as an after-school treat, this is a sandwich that promises sweetness and nostalgia - a perfect fit for the 78% of parents who agreed that sandwiches are a canvas for small moments of care, like notes in lunch bags. Since sandwiches are so customizable, you can easily adapt these recipes to your family's unique preferences and needs. Whether you decide to use different seasonings or swap to a multigrain bread, there's no such thing as a wrong sandwich decision as long as it works for you. To view ingredients and decide what kind of loaf you want to stock up on during the school year, visit naturesownbread.com. Ham, Turkey, Bacon and Cheese Pocket 8 slices Nature's Own Honey Wheat Bread 1/4 pound deli turkey 1/4 pound deli ham 4 slices cooked bacon 4 slices white American cheese 1 egg 1 tablespoon cold water 1 teaspoon coarse salt Preheat oven to 350 F. Chop turkey, ham and bacon and toss together. Set aside. Using knife, cut off crust on each piece of bread. With rolling pin, roll and flatten each slice of crustless bread. Take four slices and place spoonful of chopped meats in middle of each slice. Top with broken slices of cheese. Place remaining slices of crustless bread on top of each pocket. In small bowl, crack egg and add water. Beat together. Dip fork into egg mixture and crimp each edge of pocket until two slices are sealed together. Repeat on each pocket. Brush top of each pocket with remaining egg mixture and sprinkle salt on top. Place on sheet pan and bake until golden brown, 7-10 minutes. Let cool a few minutes and enjoy. Fluffernutter Sandwich Total time: 10 minutes Servings: 1 2 tablespoons peanut butter 2 slices Nature's Own Butterbread 2 tablespoons marshmallow fluff Spread peanut butter on one bread slice. Spread marshmallow fluff on second slice. Put both slices together to form sandwich.
	How Invasive Pests Spread and How You Can Help Stop Them (Feature Impact) Invasive pests can hide in places you'd never expect, and once they spread, they can destroy the trees, plants and food people rely on every day. These pests pose a serious threat to agriculture, forests, ecosystems and the food supply. Many invasive species cannot travel far on their own; instead people unknowingly move them from place to place. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, invasive pests hitchhike on everyday items such as plants, produce, firewood, vehicles and outdoor equipment. That makes many common activities - from traveling and online shopping to camping and gardening - potential "pathways" for invasive pests to move and reach new areas. Understanding these pathways is the first step to stopping pests before they spread. Traveling Abroad When you travel abroad and return from another country, the agricultural items you bring back can introduce new invasive pests into the U.S. and threaten crops or trees that have no natural defenses against them. Even harmless-looking fruit, seed packets or souvenirs made with plant materials can carry pests such as fruit flies and diseases like citrus canker. That's why it's critical travelers declare food, plants and other agricultural products when entering the country from abroad. Shopping Online Just because you can order seeds and plants from sellers around the world, it doesn't mean those items are legal or safe to import. In fact, some invasive snails and plant diseases have entered the U.S. this way. Many agricultural products from overseas require permits, inspections or special paperwork before they can enter the country. Buyers should check where an item ships from, learn the import requirements before purchasing and make sure sellers follow all labeling and shipping rules. Partaking in Outdoor Activities When you spend time outdoors hiking, camping, hunting or fishing, you could inadvertently spread invasive species. For example, transporting firewood from one location to another can spread tree-killing insects, such as the emerald ash borer, which can live inside the wood and emerge later in a new area. The safest choice is to buy or use firewood where you burn it. Additionally, clean all outdoor clothing, gear, equipment and vehicles before leaving an area. Moving Outdoor Equipment When you move to a new home, your move can create another opportunity for invasive insects to travel. Before relocating patio furniture, grills, trailers or lawn equipment, inspect and clean them carefully. Look for insects, plant debris and egg masses like spotted lanternfly egg masses, which can blend into outdoor surfaces and look like smears of mud or clumps of dirt. A few minutes of checking and cleaning before you move can help prevent pests from invading your new neighborhood. Invasive pests cost the U.S. billions of dollars every year and damage forests, farms, parks and backyards. Stopping invasive pests starts with simple steps anyone can take: checking what you pack, clean, move and buy. When everyone does their part, fewer pests spread and communities stay healthier and more resilient. Visit aphis.usda.gov/hungrypests to learn more about how invasive pests spread and the simple steps you can take to help stop them and protect America's agriculture and natural resources. Invasive Pest Protection Checklist Declare all food, plants and agricultural items when returning from another country. When ordering items online, check where the products ship from and verify U.S. import rules before buying. If you're camping, buy firewood where you plan to burn it. Clean clothing, gear and vehicles before leaving. Before moving to a new home, inspect outdoor furniture and equipment, looking closely for egg masses or insects. Content courtesy of USDA.
	Galesburg provides grant to help All-Stars Sports Academy purchase building The Galesburg City Council approved the one-time, $266,941 grant to help the nonprofit acquire the building and six acres of property at 1855 E. Knox St.
	Smithfield Foods temporarily suspends operations at processing facility in Monmouth Smithfield Foods temporarily suspended operations at its Monmouth facility because of technical issues at their wastewater facility.
	Smithfield temporarily suspends operations at Monmouth processing facility Officials say operations have been temporarily suspended at Smithfield Foods processing facility in Monmouth.
	'House of the Dragon,' Season 3, Episode 6: Assassination nation In which Gwayne has a good eye.
	Monmouth apartment fire leaves unit uninhabitable, sends 1 to hospital A Saturday night apartment fire in Monmouth left a unit uninhabitable and sent one resident to the hospital with minor smoke-related injuries.
	Extreme Heat Warning until MON 10:00 PM CDT Extreme Heat Warning in Effect Until 10 PM CDT Monday
	Chance for some severe storms tonight With temperatures hot in the 90s and a very high dew point in the Quad Cities, we are watching for the chance of storms that could rapidly develop from these conditions. A slight risk of severe weather has been issued for most of the area as the timing of these storms will mainly be toward [...]
	Iowa Dems lose first-caucus status after 54 years; South Carolina to take lead in 2028 The Iowa Democrats lost their first-in-the-nation caucus status after 54 years, sparking frustration and debate over political motives and state law.
	Illinois GOP ticket talks taxes, crime and election strategy \| News 8 This Week - July 26, 2026 Republican lieutenant governor candidate Aaron Del Mar joins This Week to discuss the Bailey campaign's priorities ahead of the Illinois election.
	Tadej Pogačar of Slovenia wins the 2026 Tour de France, his fifth victory in the race The route for the iconic cycling race's final stage was shortened because security and police were reassigned to assist with wildfires in southwest France.
	Galesburg Waste Management to run early July 27 due to heat Galesburg's Waste Management routes will start early Monday, art Early on Monday, July 27 due to forecasted heat. According to a release from the Galesburg Community Development Department, all collection routes will begin 30 minutes early due to forecasted high heat and humidity. Residents are reminded to ensure all refuse is placed at the curb [...]
	Extreme Heat Warning until MON 10:00 PM CDT Extreme Heat Warning in Effect Until 10 PM CDT Monday
	U.S. pauses attacks on Iran for a second straight day and Tehran does too The United States paused attacks on Iran for a second straight day Sunday and Tehran said it had done so too, as efforts continued to bring the countries back to negotiations on an interim ceasefire.
	Great Balloon Race returns to Galesburg Colorful hot air balloons filled the sky as the annual Great Balloon Race returned to Galesburg.
	4 the Record WEB EXTRA: Independent Gov candidate Corbett takes aim at Illinois regulations Thanks for checking out this web extra. We ran out of time to bring you all of my conversation with Illinois gubernatorial candidate Collin Corbett on 4 The Record. We pick it up with one issue we didn't get to that's part of his economic platform. Collin Corbett talks about expanding the Illinois economy by [...]
	Breakfast Bankroll for week ending 7/24/26 Here's this week's update on retail prices for the breakfast staples of bacon, eggs and milk. This is the USDA's average price for a dozen of large Grade A eggs, a pound of bacon and a gallon of milk on January 20, 2025, compared to where the prices are now. To see the price, click [...]
	United States could be in too deep in war with Iran to get out quickly We're five months into the war with Iran. The brief respite we saw in June escalated this month with now daily attacks carried out by both countries on high-profile targets. The memorandum of understanding intended to lead to peace talks seems meaningless now. Wars are not popular in general. This one is especially unpopular with [...]
	Illinois delays rules to limit AI use in employment decisions Illinois' move to protect job applicants from being discriminated against by artificial intelligence might not be enough. Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law that makes it illegal for businesses to use AI as a way to weed out applicants based on race, gender, age, religion and more. Businesses are also required to notify applicants and [...]
	Corbett playing long game in Illinois governor's race as longshot independent We're now 100 days away from the midterm election on November 3. The race for Illinois governor is on the ballot. This is actually a three-way race. You know about incumbent governor JB Pritzker and Republican challenger Darren bailey, but there's also Collin Corbett running as an independent. Collin Corbett was born in Batavia, Illinois. [...]
	An insurance card is not an appointment This commentary is by Matt Swenson, who is the founder of Omnidex Solutions, a risk diagnostics company. He lives in Vermont. Vermont’s healthcare debate has spent a decade stuck on the wrong question. The political class argues about who should pay the bill. Patients are asking something simpler: Can I actually see a doctor? Insurance is not care. Coverage is not capacity. A promise from the government does not create a primary care appointment, a hospital bed, a nurse or an operating room. Yet Montpelier keeps tightening its grip on the money while patients have fewer real options every year. Call it what it is. The Green Mountain Care Board is a rationing authority, whether or not anyone in Montpelier has the nerve to use the word. It sets hospital budgets, caps revenue and increasingly dictates what hospitals can build and offer. For fiscal year 2026, the board denied $94.5 million in revenue Vermont hospitals had proposed, most of it aimed at the University of Vermont Medical Center. The board has its defense. Regulators accused the UVM Health network of shipping Vermont healthcare dollars to New York to cover losses at its New York hospitals and said the network should cut administration, executive pay and traveling staff before touching patient services. Fine. Hospital executives have earned that scrutiny. But look at the arrangement: Regulators choke the money, administrators pick where the cuts land, and patients absorb whatever falls out of the fight. Nobody voted for that outcome, and nobody answers for it. The pattern is already on the ground. In 2024, UVM Medical Center shelved a planned $130 million outpatient surgical center after the board approved a fraction of the revenue growth it requested — a facility meant to replace aging operating rooms and expand the exact surgical capacity Vermonters are waiting on. Vermont did not reduce the need for surgery that year. It reduced the ability to perform it. That is rationing by spreadsheet, and Act 68 is about to make it law, pushing Vermont toward global hospital budgets: fixed annual spending targets, first for the larger hospitals, eventually for all of them. Global budgets look tidy because the numbers are set in advance. Illness doesn’t care what the number is. When demand outruns the approved figure, you get closed beds, dropped service lines, out-of-state transfers and longer waits. There’s a quieter cost. Squeeze a hospital hard enough, and it stops practicing medicine and starts managing throughput. Patients get sent home minutes after surgery ends, nowhere near a safe margin for anesthesia recovery, because the bed has a quota. Surgery becomes drive-through. Recovery becomes your problem, at home. That is the Walmart model of healthcare: high volume, standardized product, minimum staffing, everybody processed on the average and nobody treated as a person. At least McDonald’s is honest about what it’s selling. Vermont is building the machinery of single-payer without the payer: centralized financial control, politically set spending caps and the delusion that squeezing payment produces affordability without destroying access. Canada is the warning label. Its system guarantees public coverage for medically necessary care, and Canadians wait anyway. In 2024, only 68% of hip replacements and 61% of knee replacements happened within the recommended six-month window, and only 69% of cataract surgeries within the recommended 16 weeks — even as Canada performed record surgical volumes. The clinicians are not the problem. Scarcity is. When government dominates payment and constrains capacity, rationing doesn’t go away. It moves from price to queue. The asymmetric patient pays first — the patient whose illness refuses to match the average the budget was built on. Several interacting conditions, a strange diagnosis, a failed prior treatment, a need for one particular surgeon. Standardized pathways were never built for that person, and a budget-driven system has every incentive to push them aside. The asymmetric patient waits the longest, gets transferred the farthest and takes whatever the system has left over. READ MORE Better models exist. Switzerland covers everyone without a government payment monopoly: regulated basic insurance for all, subsidies for those who can’t pay. It’s expensive, but it proves the point Montpelier refuses to hear: Universal coverage does not require running every dollar through one public spigot. Kaiser Permanente proves the delivery lesson: Tying insurers, physicians, hospitals and records into one system genuinely cuts waste. But Kaiser also shows the trap. A closed network works right up until you need something it doesn’t have. Then coordination becomes confinement. Take the coordination, refuse the captivity. Vermonters should hold enforceable rights to outside referrals and second opinions whenever timely care isn’t available in network. Take Switzerland’s regulated competition, refuse Canada’s payment monopoly. And measure reform by access, not enrollment. How long for a primary care appointment? How many specialists take new patients? How many surgeries slipped? How many Vermonters had to leave the state for treatment? Montpelier keeps mistaking control for reform. Past a point, controlling budgets controls care — and when the state caps capacity and patients have nowhere else to go, cost containment stops being accounting. It becomes rationing with better manners. An insurance card is not an appointment. A balanced spreadsheet is not a cured patient. Read the story on VTDigger here: An insurance card is not an appointment. Courtesy of VT Digger
	Alternating Currents, Davenport, announces 2026 comedy lineup Alternating Currents will bring a mix of stand-up, improv and one-of-a-kind comedy experiences to the Quad Cities with its 2026 comedy programming for the festival Aug. 13-16 in Downtown Davenport, Bettendorf and Rock Island, a news release says. With a lineup of comedians from across the Midwest and beyond, this year's festival also features nationally [...]
	MARK-TO-MARKET: 6 years after the pandemic, the state of remote work Global Workplace Analytics estimates there are 75 million remote-capable employees in the U.S.
	BBB Tip: Why you should use BBB's Get a Quote tool You hear from experts who adhere to BBB Standards and can respond in a timely manner.
	Son gifting dad's scrapbook of WWII memories to QC Veteran Outreach Center The scrapbook is being donated on behalf of the family and in honor of America's 250th anniversary.
	‘The worst possible catch-22’: Fish and Wildlife struggles to combat bear rumors A bear enjoying a dumpster feast earlier this year in Eden, Vermont. Photo by S. Chambers, courtesy of Vermont Fish and Wildlife. As bear-human incidents continue at record rates, the state Fish and Wildlife Department is encountering public misperception that is leading Vermonters to avoid reporting minor bear activity because they fear the bear will be killed. This often leads to “the worst possible catch-22 for the bears,” said Joshua Morse, public information officer for the department: the situation not being properly addressed until it has escalated much further — so much so that it can be difficult, if not impossible, to de-escalate things without considering killing the bear. “I wish people knew that what happens when you call us, 99% of the time, is that we give you advice on how to coexist with the bear,” Morse said. “That’s what we want to be doing and that is what mostly happens.” Vermont has a large population of around 7,000 black bears, about one for every 100 residents, that reside in all areas of the state except the Champlain Islands. The mammal’s sense of smell is 2,100 times better than a human’s and they have an excellent long-term memory, able to remember the location of food sources years after an initial visit. Black bears are “opportunistic omnivores” and will eat just about anything they find, especially during the spring and early summer when their highest-fat natural food sources (beechnuts and acorns) are not yet available and they continue to draw upon last year’s remaining fat reserves. These biological factors mean the long-lived animals can locate human-created food sources like birdseed or unsecured trash from far away and, once they get a taste, will return for years in hopes the feast has replenished itself. According to Jaclyn Comeau, the state’s black bear project leader and a wildlife biologist with the department, there have been a heightened number of bear-human incident reports for the past eight years, most of them minor. The department is on track to likely exceed 1,200 reports before the year is over, potentially hitting a new record, she said this month. Not only are there more bear-human incidents being reported, but Comeau said the department is seeing an increase in more intense types of interactions: around 50 reports of home entries and around 40 reports of vehicle entries per year, often the same bear entering multiple homes or vehicles. “If the department was able to intervene earlier, we believe it would help to reduce the number of more serious cases,” said David Sausville, wildlife management program manager with the department, in an email. “We would be able to help people before the issue elevated in concern.” In situations where a bear is habituated to enter residences or vehicles, killing the bear does become a safety consideration, though Comeau notes that not every bear that enters a home needs to be killed. An average of about 35 bears per year are put down by the department, she said. Comeau’s impression is that there are more severe bear reports happening and more bears needing to be killed: Six years ago, there were just a handful of home entry reports. “As best we can tell, it’s a learned, escalated behavior where they’ve had enough positive food rewards from communities,” she said. “For some bears, this switch happens where they just become so bold that they are willing to take that risk of going right into someone’s house to get more food.” While bears do need to be put down on a fairly regular basis, most of those cases do not make the news. Every so often, however, a highly visible case will occur, like last month in Stowe when a town police officer was authorized to shoot a bear after it repeatedly broke into a restaurant’s walk-in cooler. Each time a bear killing does make the news, the rumor about reporting minor bear incidents leading directly to a bear being put down “bubbles up,” Morse said. “It’s extremely frustrating. It’s this rumor with this really long life that pops up when you least need it,” he added. “It sounds really extreme, but it has real spreading power.” Morse himself fields the department’s general inquiry phone and email lines a few days a week, and on occasion gets calls from people who say, “I was really anxious to call you. Please don’t kill the bear.” “And I’ll say, ‘We’re so glad you called us. We’re not going to kill the bear,’” he recounted. “‘Our goal is to help you and the bear coexist, that’s what we want.’” When should you report a bear sighting? Vermonters should let the department know when they see bears in “places they probably shouldn’t be, or doing things they probably shouldn’t be doing,” Comeau said. The main way to do so is via Fish and Wildlife’s bear reporting form, though those needing immediate assistance for unsafe bear situations can call their local game warden. When a report is submitted, the department follows up with an email full of detailed information relevant to the specific situation or, in medium-intensity situations, with a phone call. In either situation, Comeau said, they will offer a site visit to help people locate and secure bear attractants. “Getting rid of bird feeders, putting up electric fences around chickens and finding a really good place to store your garbage can go a really long way,” the biologist said. “That’s the bulk of what we’re doing, and it proves to be most effective.” In a new partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, electric fences and electrified mats can be loaned out to Vermonters to help with bear situations for a few weeks until residents have a chance to purchase their own. Support staff help set up the equipment and get people comfortable with using it. In more severe cases, the department has tactics to make the bear have a negative experience at a site to outweigh the positive food experiences. They catch the bear and release it on site with loud noises and use a paintball gun or rubber ammunition. Those efforts are very time-intensive, Comeau said, and are saved for situations where people have made all the right changes to secure food sources. A bear exits a fenced but unsecured dumpster in Stowe on September 5, 2021. Photo by K. Fiegenbaum/VTDigger. Despite their great sense of smell, memory and drive to locate calories, bears can definitely unlearn the association between a locale and a feast, the biologist said. “It takes us being really diligent about it,” Comeau said. “We really have to make some of our own changes if we really want to see the light at the end of the tunnel for this situation.” In some cases, though, when bears are consistently entering homes, businesses or vehicles, or acting aggressively and not responding to changed human behavior, they do need to be put down. Relocation is not an effective option, she said. Bears have an “amazing ability to navigate” and will eventually return to their original location, as well as likely causing problems for the humans or other bears living where they are relocated to. “The public really likes that idea and I understand why they do, because it seems like the nicest thing to do,” Comeau said. “But I honestly feel like it is the most selfish way to handle this.” ‘We need people to step it up’ As the frequency and intensity of bear incident reports have increased, the department has amped up their bear coexistence outreach, Morse said, from workshops to social media and television ads to poster campaigns in conflict towns. Ten years ago, Morse said, the department wasn’t spending any marketing funds on bear coexistence. Despite their best efforts, he said, the department seems to have “hit a wall” with the number of people they can reach and educate about bear coexistence, especially in places with chronic issues such as Stowe, Killington, the Mad River Valley and the Wilmington and Dover area. “We are using every tool and every channel to try to give people the means to coexist with bears, and we need people to step it up,” Morse said. “We need whole communities to be doing the information sharing and making the changes in lockstep,” he added. “Otherwise, it will just be whack-a-mole, and that’s not the scale of change that we need for the bears.” To that end, the department is supporting a peer-to-peer nonprofit, Vermont Coverts, that helps residents educate their neighbors on what to do with bears using their own social networks or word of mouth. They also support grassroots community groups like the Mad River Valley Bear Initiative, as well as encourage towns to think about adopting ordinances to keep garbage contained. Working to help Vermonters coexist with bears is a significant and overwhelming drain on the department, Morse said, even with the new partnership with the USDA. While all the outreach and education they do is to help make living with bears easier, the department is also discussing concerns that there are too many bears in the state. “We are trying to help people expand their comfort level a bit, but we are also talking about making some changes to bring the population down a little bit lower to see if that will also help alleviate some of the pressure we’re all feeling,” Comeau said. The best and really only way to do that is by increasing the number of bears killed in hunting season, a policy conversation the Fish and Wildlife commissioner’s office is currently having, she said. To that end, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board announced Wednesday that it will be holding public hearings at the end of August on proposed changes to the state’s bear hunting regulations. Currently, hunters can take one bear per year. The proposed changes would allow a second bear permit to be purchased for specific areas of the state, as well as slightly extend the bear hunting season. Read the story on VTDigger here: ‘The worst possible catch-22’: Fish and Wildlife struggles to combat bear rumors. Courtesy of VT Digger
	Dangerous Heat Index Near 110 Degrees Sweeping Quad Cities Storms Possible Tonight
	Arkansas’ smoking ban just turned 20. Can the state find common ground on public health again? A no-smoking sign on a doorway in Little Rock, Arkansas on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 (Photo by Andrew DeMillo/Arkansas Advocate)Just 20 years ago, trying to avoid smoke in Arkansas was an onerous task. Going out to restaurants and bars often meant coming home reeking of cigarettes, even if you or your companions weren’t the ones smoking. Many employers had a smoke break room. At my first newspaper job in Arkansas, that meant walking through a thick, noxious cloud to buy a can of Diet Coke from the vending machine. It wasn’t just a hassle navigating this environment. It was a serious risk, especially for a state that has regularly placed at the bottom or near-bottom of most major health indicators. Last week marked the 20th anniversary of the state’s indoor smoking ban taking effect. The law is a testament to bipartisanship and the work of Arkansas public health leaders. It’s also a model for how Arkansas policymakers can address the state’s public health concerns today. Let us know what you think... Banning indoor smoking wasn’t the primary reason lawmakers were summoned to the Capitol in 2006. Republican Gov. Mike Huckabee, our current governor’s father, called the predominantly Democratic Legislature back into session to address a court ruling that Arkansas still hadn’t funded its schools adequately. But the session gave Huckabee, who was term-limited and already laying the groundwork for a presidential bid, a chance to add policy wins to his resume. Trying to position himself as someone especially focused on health, reducing smoking became one of his signature causes. To do so, he reversed course on his previous opposition to such a ban. The nonsmoking governor, who had received campaign contributions from tobacco companies, rejected a similar ban on smoking in restaurants in 2001. But five years later, Huckabee argued forcefully for such a restriction and painted it as a matter of protecting workers’ health. “I think people are going to find out that there is an overwhelming number of people who really prefer a nonsmoking environment,” Huckabee said in 2006. “There may be some businesses who think they can thrive that way, but I think more often than not, I think they not only limit their customer base but they also do encourage additional hazards.” The wide vote margins in the House and the Senate for the ban don’t reflect just how much resistance there initially was to a ban that’s now a part of everyday life in the state. The idea faced opposition from some restaurant owners who said it would hurt their business and from some conservatives who portrayed it as a form of government overreach. The ban even cleared the way for the passage of another measure banning smoking in cars with small children inside. Health advocates embraced that restriction, even though many suspected it was introduced as a joke or protest to the indoor ban. The smoke-filled restaurants and other workplaces aren’t the only things that feel bizarre 20 years later. The idea of bipartisan support on public health issues, in an increasingly polarized environment, also feels like a different world. The smoking ban passed during a weeklong session where a Republican governor and Democrats passed a raft of progressive measures. The agenda included a major boost in school funding and an increase in the state’s minimum wage. But the smoking ban still provides a model. It showed what happens when people of different political backgrounds trust health experts and work together to make a pragmatic argument for change. It required leaders to be willing to change their minds and to accept compromises. It’s a model that may be more difficult to replicate in an environment where so many policy discussions turn into fierce partisan battles. And it’s complicated further by the demonization public health officials have faced and the easy spread of medical disinformation. But obstacles like that can be overcome, and environments can change. Every smoke-free workplace and restaurant in Arkansas is proof that consensus can be found. Courtesy of Arkansas Advocate
	Prairie Towns This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.The Mississippi River Valley in which Rock Island nestles is lovely, but there is a lonely beauty, too, above the…
	Lebanese displaced by war turn to satellites to check their homes Unable to return home, some Lebanese displaced by Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon are buying satellite images to see whether their houses survived.
	Rage-giving, innovation and cuts: How public media has survived without federal funds A year after President Trump signed a law ending six decades of federal funding of public media, it's a time of reinvention, innovation and clear anxiety at public tv and radio stations nationwide.
	Meet the robots programmed by kids to speak their Indigenous languages Many Native American languages are endangered. With the help of his mentor, a 12-year-old in Michigan hopes to help preserve his language through robotics.
	ADHD looks different in women and poses unique health risks For decades, ADHD was viewed as a childhood condition that mostly affected boys. Researchers now know ADHD manifests differently in girls, but many still go undiagnosed until adulthood.
	Climate change is now threatening a pillar of childhood: summer break When summer rolls around, many parents scramble to sign up their young kids for outdoor activities. But what do you do when extreme heat and wildfire smoke increasingly make the outdoors dangerous?
	Mississippi Valley Blues Society presents Rick Estrin & The Nightcats Mississippi Valley Blues Society presents award-winning, modern blues legends Rick Estrin & The Nightcats! According to a release from Mississippi Valley Blues Society, three-time winners of the Blues Music Award for Band Of The Year Rick Estrin & The Nightcats perform live at The Gypsy Highway August 30. Vocalist, harmonica master and songwriter Estrin, along [...]
Saturday, July 25th, 2026
	Cases of cyclosporiasis rise: What to know Cases of cyclosporiasis are rising in the U.S. while health officials look to contain it. That's all in addition to a salmonella outbreak that has started in several brands of eggs. Our Quad Cities News correspondent Lia Lando has the latest on the spread of cyclosporiasis.
	Pam's Place hosts back-to-school giveaway, carnival in Davenport Pam's Place gave away free school supplies, clothes and shoes while hosting a back-to-school carnival with food, music and performances.
	Democratic candidates focus on ag future at Iowa Farmers Union forum Nearly 100 Iowa Farmers Union members from across the state attended the annual barn party on July 25, 2026 at the Big Oak Barn in Elkhart, Iowa. (Photo by Joanna Schroeder for Iowa Capital Dispatch)ELKHART — Nearly 100 Iowa Farmers Union members from across the state came out Saturday to learn how several Iowa Democratic candidates plan on leading change — especially for the ag industry and the struggling farm economy. The event at Big Oak Barn in Elkhart kicked off with Sarah Trone Garriott, a Democrat who is running for U.S. House District 3 against incumbent Republican Rep. Zach Nunn. She focused on how the farm bill is a viable way to address declining farm income. “In the farm bill, we have tremendous opportunity to really incentivize the practices that we know make a difference, cover crops, no till. But in order to do those things, farmers have to invest in some new technology and they have to be prepared for a decrease in their productivity for a period of time,” Trone Garriott said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE State Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott, Democratic candidate for U.S. House District 3, speaks July 25, 2026 at the Iowa Farmer Union’s annual barn party. (Photo by Joanna Schroeder for Iowa Capital Dispatch) “We have to help them through it,” she continued. “We’re (farmers) under a lot of pressure right now and it’s really hard to make changes when you’re so stressed.” She explained that during the Nixon administration, there was a huge investment in water quality and that priority cleaned up the country’s water. “We can do that again,” Trone Garriott said. “I believe that we have the resources, we have the answers. We just need to direct that support and make it the priority. And we can make a huge positive impact for our state.” Muhlbauer cites farm bankruptices, high input costs Dave Muhlbauer, a fifth-generation farmer from Manila, Iowa, running for lieutenant governor on Democrat Rob Sand’s ticket, said he has prioritized agriculture and rural communities as part of his campaign. Dave Muhlbauer, running for Iowa lieutenant governor on Rob Sand’s ticket, speaks during the Iowa Farmers Union annual barn party July 25, 2026 in Elkhart. (Photo by Joanna Schroeder for Iowa Capital Dispatch) “If it’s a good idea, it doesn’t matter where it comes from,” Muhlbauer said. “It’s not right versus left but right versus wrong and we’re going in the wrong direction. I gotta say, people are very frustrated and upset with the direction of our state.” Muhlbauer said many farmers are facing a fourth consecutive year of losses and last April farm bankruptcies hit a six-year high. He cited a recent report that found farm incomes have dropped 53% in the last three years. He said causes include the tariffs and high input prices like fuel and fertilizer as a result of the ongoing Iran conflict. “This isn’t sustainable to our family farms and it’s further driving our state economy into the ditch,” Muhlbauer said. “You know, I’m a farmer. I’m a real farmer. That’s my livelihood and what I’ve done all my life, so I think it’s fitting for me to say it’s time to rotate crops.” Jones calls for diversifying crops Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for Iowa secretary of agriculture, speaks to Iowa Farmers Union members July 25, 2026 in Elkhart. (Photo by Joanna Schroeder for Iowa Capital Dispatch) Chris Jones, Democratic candidate for secretary of agriculture, who spent his career monitoring water quality and high nitrate levels, agrees. He noted that Iowa is a two-crop state (corn and soybeans) and it’s time to diversify crops with a focus on crops that would thrive in Iowa. Diversifying crops, he said, would help reduce nitrate levels in Iowa’s water. “It’s time to stop making incremental change and focus on structural change. It came to me that if we want to improve agriculture, if we want to create a resilient and a humane and a sustainable system that delivers good environmental outcomes, we need structural change,” Jones said. To do this, Iowa needs diverse farming systems where farmers are growing oats, forage crops, vegetables and fruits, Jones said. He is advocating for locally grown food to be served in local schools and his campaign is releasing a local food policy that will position Iowa to be the number one state in the country for access to local food. “We can’t be saying we feed the world when we can’t feed Polk County,” Jones said. He is running against incumbent Republican Mike Naig. Turek emphasizes need for change Josh Turek, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, speaks July 25, 2026 to Iowa Farmers Union members in Elkhart. (Photo by Joanna Schroeder for Iowa Capital Dispatch) Josh Turek, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, said Iowa needs candidates who are going to fight for Iowa and Iowans. “Fighting for social and economic justice, not just fighting for the billionaires and the large corporations. That’s the opportunity all of us have this year – working together.” Turek, a state representative from Council Bluffs who is running against Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, stressed that Iowa should not be leading the country in farm foreclosures. He made the promise if he is elected, he will fight to pass policies that support farmers, including enabling farmers to repair their equipment. He also promised to pass a farm bill that works for farmers. “I will not let Congress leave D.C. with a passive farm bill.” He ended the evening highlighting what Iowans have been saying to him as he travels across the state speaking with Iowans: “This is not the state I know. This is not the state I love. We need change. I voted for Ernst. I voted for Trump. Enough is enough.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Extreme Heat Warning tomorrow After things have cooled down in the Quad Cities, with some 70s over the past few days, the heat is making a return to end July. Temperatures back in the 80s for this Saturday but tomorrow and Monday is going to see temperatures back in the mid 90s on your thermometers. But with a very [...]
	One dead, several injured after vehicle plows through crowd at Berlin Pride event Berlin police said they have identified a suspect who "is known to police" and has links to "Islamist circles."
	France and Spain fires force more than 200,000 to flee homes At least one person has died in a fire in Spain, according to officials.
	More Iowans traveling out of state for reproductive healthcare: What to know More women in Iowa are traveling out of state for reproductive healthcare after a ban on telehealth prescriptions for abortion pills in the state. Our Quad Cities News correspondent Adrianna Torres takes a look at what those increasing numbers could mean for Iowans.
	Crowd support keeps runners returning to annual Bix 7 Thousands of runners thrived in Davenport's vibrant streets for the 52nd annual Bix 7 race.
	Bix 7 runners praise Davenport crowd support Thousands lined Davenport streets for the 52nd annual Bix 7 as runners praised the race's electric atmosphere and strong community support.
	43 treated at MercyOne Genesis Quad-City Times Bix 7 medical tent MercyOne Genesis announced its team treated 43 patients at its Quad-City Times Bix 7 medical tent.
	Second man faces charges after vandalism at new Bettendorf park Another Bettendorf man faces charges after vandalism in a new Bettendorf park, according to Scott County arrest affidavits. Michael Taylor, 19, of Bettendorf, faces a felony charge of explosive material or destructive devices with intent and an aggravated misdemeanor charge of third-degree arson, arrest affidavits show. In court documents, police say that Taylor and co-defendant [...]
	Death Notice: Robert Westphal A funeral service for Robert Gene "Rollo" Westphal, 89, of Davenport, will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, at the Bentley Funeral Home, Durant. Visitation will be from 9:30 - 10:45 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Private burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery. Mr. Westphal died Friday, July 24, 2026, at his home. Memorials may be made to the Walcott Community Club. Online condolences may be made at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com. A full obituary will appear in the July 29 edition of The NSP.
	Iowa DOT to use traffic counters to collect data in Muscatine The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) will begin its annual summer traffic collection program in Muscatine starting Sunday, July 26, with work continuing through Thursday, July 30. Iowa DOT crews will install traffic counters at multiple locations throughout the city during this period, a news release says. The Iowa DOT will return later in [...]
	Habaneros to stay in Moline after moving out of SouthPark Mall Owner Josue Sanchez expects to open his new location on Avenue of the Cities in the first few weeks of September.
	Biden ghostwriter tapes to be released Former President Joe Biden is declining to appeal a court ruling that allows the Justice Department to publicize recordings of conversations between him and a writer collaborating on his memoir.
	Survey: Do you know how much gas prices have risen? (The Hill) -- As ongoing fighting in the Middle East continues to influence prices at the pump, a new survey signals many Americans overestimate gas price increases. The Politico poll, released on Friday, found roughly 3 in 5 adults in the U.S. believe the cost of gas in their area rose more than the data [...]
	Why campaign appearance was emotional for Iowa candidate Iowa lt. governor candidate Dave Muhlbauer describes emotional return to center that helped his son in crisis.
	India's 'cockroach' movement ousts minister, but can Modi calm youth? Led by Gen-Z youth across India, the movement has become perhaps the biggest challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 12 years in office
	Mohammed El Youssfi wins 2026 Bix 7 Mohammed El Youssfi won the Bix 7 with a time of 32:07 on Saturday. Everlyn Kemboi won the women's race at 35:29, just seconds off the all-time record, according to race organizers. Kelsey Allbaugh, who got a head start for a chance at prize money if she crosses the finish line before the winners, was [...]
	Book talk 'Becoming Utopia' scheduled for Bishop Hill On Saturday August 1, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. at the Steeple Building Museum in historic Bishop Hill IL, will host a free presentation and book signing by Adam Kaul and Margaret Farrar. The new book about Bishop Hill was written by a political scientist and an anthropologist over the course of 15 years, a news [...]
	Bettendorf Library's main entrance to change so sidewalks can be replaced Beginning Tuesday, July 28, work will begin outside the Bettendorf Public Library, 2950 Learning Campus Drive, as crews remove and replace the sidewalks and ADA curb ramps that surround the building, a news release says. This is Phase 1 of the Learning Campus Sidewalk Replacement Project, which is being completed in two stages – the [...]
	COMIC: Temps are predicted to hit 106 in Egypt this week. How do people stay cool? Back in the '90s, I learned the art of staying cool in Egypt. At that time, air conditioning was not common. In the extremely hot summer of 2026, how are people managing?
	Sextortion: That's the threat for women who are simply trying to buy clean water Water is often a scarce commodity in Nairobi's largest slum. The only source may be a local cartel — and with that comes the risk of sexual threats and attacks.
	Illinois Lt. Gov. candidate Aaron Del Mar wants to talk affordability, not abortion Aaron Del Mar, Republican candidate for Illinois lieutenant governor, emphasized taxes, education, public safety and political balance between parties.
	School board recap: Budgets, bonds and operation project items approved Budgets, bonds, and other agenda items were approved by school boards across the Quad-Cities this past week.
	Ford recalls over half a million Broncos. Here's why Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than half a million Broncos because a wiring harness in the engine compartment can short-circuit and increase the risk of fire.
	Sandburg plans open house for prospective students, families A Take Charge Summer Open House will be held from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, on Sandburg's Galesburg campus, a news release says. Prospective Sandburg students and their families are invited to explore opportunities available at the college and complete next steps before the fall semester begins. Meet faculty and staff, register for classes [...]
	Recap: Eldridge wants to absorb fire department, Muscatine denies appeals, and Moline adds translation tech Here's a recap of local city government news in the Quad-Cities you may have missed this week.
	Love's travel stop opens in Rock Falls Love’s Travel Stops has opened a new travel stop in Rock Falls at 2801 Hoover Road (Interstate 88 and State Route 40,) a news release says. The new location offers fresh food items, Godfather’s Pizza, and Naf-Naf Grill, as well as a dog park. The location adds 90 jobs to Rock Falls. "As part of [...]
	Memories of Muscatine: A lithograph by Adolf Arthur Dehn This week for Memories of Muscatine: "Rodeo" by Adolf Arthur Dehn.
	Seven winners, seven races - action continues at Davenport Speedway The last Davenport Speedway stock car race before the Mississippi Valley Fair usually delivers a great show. The 2026 version lived up to expectations. The streak continues in The Outhouse/Storage to Go - Late Models. Seven races, seven different winners. Tommy Elston on his first trip to Davenport this season put his ride into victory [...]
	Runners hit the streets Saturday for 52nd Bix 7 The seven-mile course starts at the base of Brady Street Hill and is lined with live bands and cheering crowds.
	Extreme Heat Returns to Quad Cities This Weekend Pleasant weather settles in, cooler through end of work week
	Steamboats Acoming This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Imagine what the view from Rock Island must have been like just before the Civil War, when some 1,500 steamboats a…
	Trump is hellbent on tariffs. Here are 5 implications Trump's determination to find new legal justifications for his tariffs threatens to prolong the uncertainty facing the U.S. and global economies.
	Democrats in Maine gather to replace Graham Platner in the race against Susan Collins Democrats are hoping to move past Platner's scandal-plagued campaign as they look to unseat Republican incumbent Susan Collins. The apparent front-runner is former Maine Senate President Troy Jackson.
	Extreme Heat Warning from SUN 11:00 AM CDT until SUN 9:00 PM CDT Extreme Heat Warning and Watch in Effect: Dangerously High Temperatures Expected
	Trump returns to correspondents' dinner 3 months after shooting President Donald Trump returned to the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association dinner Friday night, delivering a rambling, hour-long speech.
Friday, July 24th, 2026
	Assumption wins 3A State Baseball Championship game against Wahlert Assumption beat Wahlert 5-3 in the 3A State Championship game. The Knights ended the season on an 11 game winning streak.
	Habaneros moving out of SouthPark Mall, will stay in Moline in new location Owner Josue Sanchez expects to open his new location on Avenue of the Cities in the first few weeks of September.
	Bix Family Jam honors Beiderbecke's 'Davenport Blues' There was plenty of food and music to be had for the second year of the event, held on the eve of the Bix 7.
	Orion 250 event to bring music, history and community together Aug. 1 Free hot dogs, apple pie and ice cream await at the family-friendly event. There will be several hours of patriotic performers, ending with a movie in the park.
	Man involved in fentanyl, cocaine trafficking case sentenced to 5 years in federal prison A man who pleaded guilty to trafficking in cocaine and fentanyl in Henry and Rock Island counties was sentenced to serve five years in federal prison.
	Oregon initiative that would have banned most killing of animals won’t be on November ballots Members of the Yakama Nation harvest Pacific lamprey at Wilumpt, or Willamette Falls, near Oregon City on June 24, 2026. The lamprey are an ancient and culturally significant species for many Northwest tribes. Fishing would have been banned under an initiative that failed to gather sufficient signatures to make the November ballot. (Photo by Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital Chronicle)Oregonians won’t vote in November on whether to ban hunting, fishing, livestock farming and animal research after backers of a widely criticized initiative failed to gather enough valid signatures to make the ballot. The Oregon Secretary of State’s Office announced late Friday afternoon that it had determined Initiative Petition 28, an effort led by Portland-based vegan advocates to dramatically expand the state’s animal cruelty laws, had less than 75% of the valid signatures it needed from Oregon voters to make it onto the November ballot. Oregonians trying to pass laws through a statewide vote need to collect signatures from 6% of voters who cast ballots in the last gubernatorial election. This year, that’s 117,173 signatures. Backers of the animal cruelty initiative, who did not immediately return a call for comment Friday, reported handing in 142,784 signatures. But through two statistical samples, state election officials determined that just 104,262 of those signatures matched individual Oregon voters’ signature records. Election officials compare signatures submitted to voter records and exclude duplicates. Initiative Petition 28 would have banned nearly all harming or killing animals, with exceptions for self-defense and veterinary care. It would not have applied to insects, which aren’t considered animals under Oregon law, but would cover all other non-human creatures. The initiative had widespread opposition from Democratic and Republican political leaders, the farming, ranching and fishing industries and Oregon’s federally recognized tribes, whose treaty-protected rights to hunt and fish in their traditional land would not have been exempted from the ban. A coalition opposing the initiative welcomed the news. Lauren Kuenzi, government affairs director at the Oregon Farm Bureau and a coalition spokesperson, thanked Oregonians who raised alarms about the potential consequences of the proposed law. “Today’s announcement means Oregonians will not be faced with a ballot measure that would have made criminals out of law-abiding citizens, threatened family farms and ranches, increased food costs and undermined the science-based wildlife management that protects our state’s natural resources,” Kuenzi said. This was the third election cycle that animal rights advocates have introduced a version of the initiative, and the closest they’ve come to making the ballot. The campaign raised more than $300,000 for its efforts this time around, state campaign finance records show, allowing it to pay petition circulators. None of the other 88 initiatives Oregonians proposed this year submitted enough signatures, so this will be the first general election in decades without a citizen-led initiative on the ballot. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Oregon Capital Chronicle
	Bubba's 33 restaurant opening in Davenport on Monday This is the chain's first location in Iowa. It's owned by the same company as Texas Roadhouse.
	Hughes Taylor, August 2 Performing blues-rock that, according to Blues Blast Magazine, delivers a sound "loaded with explosive, steady-driving fretwork" and "a heavy beat and a voice to match," genre great Hughes Taylor performs an August 2 concert sponsored by the Mississippi Valley Blues Society, his Pour Bros. Craft Taproom set treating fans to what Creative Loafing called "a fiery brand of blues-rock whose power trio lineage stretches back to Stevie Ray Vaughan, Cream and Jimi Hendrix."
	Half a century of Bix: Davenport runner celebrates 50 consecutive races Mark McMullen ran in his first Bix at just 18 years old. Here's why he keeps coming back, year after year, and his advice for any first time Bix 7 runners.
	Crash slows traffic in Downtown Davenport A crash has slowed traffic on River Drive in Davenport
	Iowa left out of early 2028 Democratic presidential calendar Iowa will not be among the states holding an early Democratic presidential contest in 2028.
	Idaho’s strict Medicaid work requirements to start next year. Most meet the rules, official says. Hundreds of Idahoans gathered in the rotunda of the Idaho Capitol on Jan. 12, 2026, to protest budget cuts to the state's Medicaid program. The protest, organized by Idaho Voices for Children, took place before the governor's State of the State Address. (Photo by Christina Lords/Idaho Capital Sun)Idaho state health officials plan to start implementing work requirements for people on Medicaid expansion starting next year. Idaho Republican lawmakers and Gov. Brad Little in April adopted the work requirements from President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, the state’s largest agency that runs Medicaid and other public assistance programs, plans to implement the work requirements on Jan. 1, 2027, agency officials announced in a news release this week. Under the federal law, work requirements, also called community engagement requirements, require people enrolled in Medicaid expansion to prove that they are working, doing community service or educational or training activities for at least 80 hours each month. About 85,000 Idahoans are enrolled in Medicaid expansion, the state says. Medicaid work requirements and other changes in the “Big Beautiful Bill” could kick 20,000 to 34,000 Idahoans off Medicaid expansion by 2028, according to an analysis by the Urban Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. That’s lower than what some other researchers estimate. Idaho Medicaid Deputy Director Sasha O’Connell presents to the Legislature’s Medicaid Review Panel in Rexburg on Dec. 15, 2025. (Photo by Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun) In a statement last week, Idaho Medicaid Administrator Sasha O’Connell said in an initial review, the Department of Health and Welfare found that “the vast majority” of people on Medicaid expansion were already “meeting the new requirements.” The agency found that 68,400 Idahoans on Medicaid expansion met the new work requirements, out of the roughly 83,000 on the program at the time of the review, she said. She said the agency found that many Idahoans on Medicaid expansion already met the work requirements for several reasons, such as meeting work requirements for other programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program, or state officials could see they were working through sources such as the Department of Labor. “The remaining population will have the opportunity to provide documentation showing that they met the requirements if it wasn’t in our systems,” O’Connell said. How far back do you need to prove work history under Idaho Medicaid’s work requirements? Idaho lawmakers decided to require Medicaid expansion enrollees to prove work history for three months before their application for Medicaid. That time period, called a lookback period, is the longest allowed under the federal law. Only three states — Idaho, Indiana and North Carolina — plan to use lookback periods that long, according to KFF, a nonpartisan health policy research organization. “If you can show that you have been working, going to school, participating in a work program, volunteering, or earning at least $580 in the three consecutive months before applying for Medicaid, you will meet the new requirements,” a state website explaining the new work requirements says. People on Medicaid will also be required to re-apply to the program every six months, another change under the new federal law that increases the eligibility verification frequency from once a year. Medicaid expansion is a program, approved by Idaho voters through a 2018 ballot initiative, that offers health insurance coverage to a group of people commonly called the working poor. Idahoans can qualify for Medicaid expansion if their household earns up to 138% of the federal poverty level, or $29,863 for a family of two each year. What exemptions are there to Idaho’s Medicaid work requirements? There are several exemptions to the work requirements, including for: People who have been pregnant within the past year People who are primary caregivers of children age 13 or younger, or who are caregivers of a person with a disability People who are blind, or who have “a serious or complex health condition that requires regular medical care,” along with people who have “a substance use disorder, or are in a drug or alcohol treatment program,” or people who have “a disabling mental health condition,” or people who “have a serious or complex health condition that requires regular medical care.” People who are Native American or Alaska Natives, veterans with a 100% disability rating, people who are aged 18-25 and aged out of foster care, people incarcerated or released from incarceration in the last 90 days. People who receive food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program, or cash assistance through the Temporary Aid for Needy Families program, and “are already required to meet work requirements for those programs.” How will patients find out about work requirements? The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare says it is sending letters to all households affected by the policy. Based on Idaho’s plan to require work proof for three months, Idaho must start sending outreach notices this month, KFF says. If you’re on Medicaid expansion and want to make sure you receive updates on the program, state health officials encourage you to visit Idalink to make sure your mailing address, phone and email are up to date, and that you are signed up for email and text alerts. Verify your enrollment status in Idaho Medicaid by calling 1-877-456-1233. The Department of Health and Welfare plans to host virtual town halls in the coming months. Find more information online at the agency’s Medicaid website or its website about Medicaid expansion. Courtesy of Idaho Capital Sun

Monday, July 27th, 2026

Sunday, July 26th, 2026

Saturday, July 25th, 2026

Friday, July 24th, 2026