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

Sunday, June 21st, 2026
	Downtown Davenport celebrates Juneteenth Downtown Davenport was packed as an annual tradition continued for another year, but in a different location.
	Congress presses for involvement in Iran peace deal There's peace with Iran. At least Pres. Donald Trump says so after electronically signing a deal at the beginning of the week. It's only memorandum of understanding at this point. One problem for the American public is we really don't have a lot of details. Reuters reports it would establish a $300 billion fund to [...]
	Pritzker's stance on data centers forces state lawmakers' hands Illinois governor JB Pritzker pulls back on the state's support of new data centers, and Iowa governor Kim Reynolds vetoed two bills lawmakers sent to her desk related to education. We will start with Iowa where Gov. Reynolds used her veto to quash a couple of bills related to dual enrollment. The bills intended to [...]
	Gallagher sees Bridges Two project as gateway to new Bettendorf riverfront west of I-74 Bettendorf's intent to keep the city's economy growing hits different neighborhoods. So much attention is paid to all of the expansion near Interstate 80 around the TBK Bank Sports Complex, but city leaders haven't lost sight of trying to make downtown Bettendorf more attractive. Mayor Bob Gallagher has talked about that for years. City council [...]
	Ukrainian attacks prompt Russian-held Crimea to halt civilian gasoline sales Officials in Russia-occupied Crimea suspended civilian gasoline sales Sunday as Ukraine ramped up attacks on fuel supplies on the Black Sea peninsula.
	Iowa sportsbooks won more from less in May DES MOINES, Iowa — May opened with one of the most memorable sports stories of the year: Golden Tempo’s historic Kentucky Derby win, making Cherie DeVaux the first female trainer to win the Run for the Roses. It was the kind of sports moment that reminds you why people watch, wager and talk about the [...]
	Trump claims vandals damaged D.C. Reflecting Pool, and says it will be drained again The president posted on Truth Social claiming vandals slashed the pool's lining and poured chemicals into the water, saying arrests have been made. He provided no evidence for his claims.
	Why fatherhood matters more than ever before Long gone are the days of the distant dad.
	School board agendas to watch this week: Staffing, safety and playground projects Several Quad-City school districts have important decisions ahead. Here's what board members will be discussing this week.
	Government preview: Major votes ahead in Clinton and Davenport Clinton could choose its next city administrator this week, while Davenport weighs business grants, settlements and new contractor regulations.
	Amy Barth joins Junior Achievement of the Heartland as Chief Financial & Operating Officer Amy Barth joins Junior Achievement of the Heartland as Chief Financial & Operating Officer bringing extensive experience in financial leadership, operations, and strategic planning.
	Lunardi's Italian Restaurant closes after 37 years The longtime family-owned Lunardi's Italian Restaurant in Davenport has closed.
	Muscatine community mourn, remember Lesa and Ryle McFarland As Muscatine grieves, those who knew Ryle and Lesa McFarland are remembering lives filled with kindness and promise.
	New wine lounge, Italian restaurant closes, Asian fusion restaurant moves and more Quad-Cities business news YELO, formerly known as YELO Cupcakes and Bubble Tea, moves to Davenport, new wine lounge, Italian restaurant closes, and more Quad-Cities business news.
	Davenport police investigate crash that critically injured motorcyclist A motorcycle and Jeep collided near Division and Lombard streets, sending a rider to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
	MARK-TO-MARKET: The potential and perils of investing in SpaceX SpaceX has revolutionized how rockets are designed and built. One of its most groundbreaking innovations is the development of reusable rocket technology.
	Counselors and responders provide crucial aid following Muscatine tragedy How do schools help children cope with unimaginable loss? Muscatine educators share what happened after the tragedy earlier this month.
	A new survey on dads found that 9 out of 10 had a surprising reaction to fatherhood Men are traditionally thought of as providers for their children. But a report that interviewed thousands of fathers found them embracing another role.
	Civilized (Women's Clubs) This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.When that anonymous philosopher claimed that women's place was in the home, communities around Rock Island were…
	Bluff Blvd., Clinton to be closed for construction beginning June 22 It's an Our Quad Cities News traffic alert. According to a release from the City of Clinton, Bluff Blvd. will be closed to all through traffic from S. 14th St. to College Ave. for construction beginning Monday, June 22. The closure is due to the reconstruction of Bluff Blvd. Bluff is reduced to two lanes [...]
	Freed from Cambodia's scam compounds, trafficking victims face a new crisis Cambodia's crackdown on scam centers has created a secondary crisis: thousands of stranded foreign workers are now roaming the streets of Phnom Penh.
	1 seriously injured after Davenport motorcycle crash A man is fighting for his life after a motorcycle crash left him with life-threatening injuries.
	Want to improve your agility? Try these 'explosive power' exercises These simple movements combine speed and strength to train your body's ability to rapidly generate force. They can also help prevent injury and boost agility.
	Motorcyclist severely injured in Davenport crash, police say A motorcyclist suffered life-threatening injuries Saturday in a Davenport crash, according to a news release from the Davenport Police Department About 4:30 p.m., Davenport police, fire and Medic EMS crews responded to a report of a crash involving a motorcycle near the intersection of North Division Street and West Lombard Street. A preliminary investigation indicates [...]
Saturday, June 20th, 2026
	2026 Updated Dietary Guidance: 9 Heart-Healthy Steps for Better Eating (NewsUSA) - Why Does Your Diet Matter for Heart Health?What you eat plays a major role in your heart health. According to the American Heart Association, poor diet quality remains one of the leading contributors to cardiovascular disease and related health risks.More than half of adults and about 60% of children in the United States have unhealthy diets. These eating patterns can contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, and other chronic health conditions. The good news is that healthy eating does not require perfection. Small, sustainable improvements can make a meaningful difference over time.The American Heart Association's updated dietary guidance focuses on an overall healthy eating pattern rather than counting individual nutrients. The goal is to make heart-healthy choices easier, more practical, and sustainable throughout life.What Are the 9 Steps for a Heart-Healthy Diet?1. Maintain a Healthy Balance Between Food and ActivityAchieving and maintaining a healthy body weight starts with balancing energy intake and physical activity. Paying attention to portion sizes and staying active can help support long-term heart health.2. Eat More Vegetables and FruitsFill your plate with a variety of vegetables and fruits every day. Different colors, textures, and types of produce provide a wide range of nutrients that support overall wellness.Fresh options are excellent, but canned and frozen fruits and vegetables can also be nutritious, affordable, and convenient choices.3. Choose Whole Grains More OftenWhole grains provide more nutritional value than refined grains.Examples of whole-grain foods include:Whole-wheat breadBrown riceOatmealWhole-grain pastaChoosing whole grains more often can support a healthier dietary pattern.4. Prioritize Healthy Protein SourcesThe American Heart Association recommends shifting toward plant-based protein sources whenever possible.Healthy protein choices include:BeansLentilsPeasNutsSeedsFish and seafood are also encouraged as part of a heart-healthy eating pattern.If you choose to eat red meat, select lean cuts, avoid processed varieties, and keep portions moderate.5. Replace Saturated Fats with Unsaturated FatsNot all fats are the same.Heart-healthy unsaturated fats can be found in:NutsSeedsAvocadosNontropical plant oilsReplacing foods high in saturated fat with these healthier fat sources can support cardiovascular health.6. Choose Minimally Processed FoodsWhenever possible, select foods that are close to their natural state.Minimally processed foods typically contain fewer added ingredients and may help reduce reliance on ultraprocessed products. Building meals around whole foods can make healthy eating easier and more satisfying.7. Limit Added SugarsAdded sugars are commonly found in beverages, snacks, desserts, and packaged foods.Reducing consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and foods with added sugars can support heart health and help maintain a balanced diet.8. Reduce Sodium IntakeMany people consume more sodium than they realize because it is often hidden in packaged and prepared foods.To reduce sodium:Read nutrition labelsChoose lower-sodium optionsCook more meals at homeUse herbs, spices, and lemon for flavor instead of saltThese simple adjustments can help support healthy blood pressure levels.9. Be Mindful About Alcohol ConsumptionIf you do not drink alcohol, don’t start.For those who choose to consume alcohol, moderation is important. Excessive alcohol intake may increase the risk of high blood pressure and other health concerns.Why Is It Important to Start Healthy Habits Early?Healthy eating patterns benefit people at every stage of life.The American Heart Association recommends establishing healthy dietary habits early because they can influence long-term cardiovascular health. Children should begin following a heart-healthy eating pattern at age one.Families also play a critical role. When adults consistently make healthy food choices, children are more likely to develop similar habits that can last into adulthood.Creating a healthy home environment can help reduce reliance on highly processed foods while encouraging lifelong wellness.Progress Matters More Than PerfectionOne of the most important messages from the updated guidance is that healthy eating should be realistic and sustainable.Rather than focusing on strict rules or individual nutrients, the American Heart Association encourages people to focus on their overall eating pattern and make gradual improvements over time.Every healthier choice adds up. By incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant-based proteins, and minimally processed foods into your daily routine, you can take meaningful steps toward better heart health.Learn MoreFor additional heart-healthy eating resources and practical guidance, visit:www.heart.org/healthydiet
	KWQC honors their families on Father’s Day You can submit your Father’s Day photos to KWQC here.
	Motorcyclist taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries after Davenport crash Davenport police, fire and medic officials responded to the intersection of North Division Street and West Lombard Street just before 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.
	Quad Cities' annual Juneteenth festival draws crowds in first year in downtown Davenport Juneteenth dates back to June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas learned they were free — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
	Clinton community members celebrate, learn the true story of Juneteenth Juneteenth became a federal holiday under President Joe Biden, but its history can be traced back all the way back to 1863.
	Maquoketa man injured in motorcycle crash in Dubuque County A 68-year-old Maquoketa man was injured in a motorcycle crash Saturday in Dubuque County.
	Chance for heavy rainfall for Father's Day tomorrow After a great start to Father's Day weekend in the Quad Cities with sunshine and warm weather near the 80s, tomorrow is looking to change that. Temperatures are expected to drop to the 60s for your highs on your Father's Day Sunday with showers and storms throughout the day, some showers potentially heavy. Our Excessive [...]
	DOJ memo stokes fear among disability advocates of a return to institutionalization The Justice Department's opinion challenges civil rights protections that have long treated the institutionalization of disabled Americans as a last resort.
	Great River Brewery packed for U.S. World Cup victory watch party Melissa Urbain witnessed history in her hometown Friday afternoon, celebrating with her family the USA men’s soccer team victory in the 2026 World Cup, at Great River Brewery, Davenport.
	The Yogev Shetrit Trio, June 21 For its concert event at Davenport's Redstone Room on June 21, Polyrhythms' Third Sunday Jazz Series will deliver a rich Andalusian-jazz feel in a concert with the acclaimed Yogev Shetrit Trio, an ensemble boasting the collective talents of Moshe Elmakias on piano, Itai Eliezri on bass, and the bandleader/composer himself on drums.
	America250 time capsule sealed until 2276: What did Iowa & Illinois contribute? Everything that's inside "America's Time Capsule."
	Bettendorf man charged with sexual abuse of a child A Bettendorf man has been charged with sexual abuse of a child.
	The Phoenix, Downtown Davenport restaurant, calls on community for support A longtime Downtown Davenport business known for its gourmet food and extensive wine and martini list is calling on the community for support by dining in.
	Windborn Group, QC Arts announce artist for mural in downtown Aledo The Windborn Group and Quad City Arts have announced that artist Madeline Dieters has been selected to create a new public mural on the South side of 112 E. Main St. in historic downtown Aledo, according to a news release from Quad City Arts. Supported by the Illinois Arts Council's America's 250th Public Art Grant, [...]
	Clinton County Sheriff’s Office warns of door-to-door asphalt and paving solicitors A scam alert to watch out for.
	'Plant a Seed, Read' and more at Rock Island library programs Opportunities to grow free summer fun with Rock Island Public Library Plant a Seed, Read summer events are in full bloom for the weeks of June 22-30, a news release says. Fans of the orange cartoon cat Garfield can drop in for his 50th birthday party on Monday, June 22, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the [...]
	Geneseo Police Department to conduct drone operations, Sunday A heads up to residents in Geneseo as the police department plans to conduct drone operations this weekend.
	Paul Mizzi: “Proud Americans,” June 28 Bridging the 57th anniversary of the Stonewall riots with the 250th anniversary of the United States, flutist Paul Mizzi, Paul Mizzi – principal flutist with the Galesburg Symphony and professor of flute at Black Hawk College – will present the flute recital and celebration of queer composers Proud Americans at Davenport's Metropolitan Community Church of the Quad Cities on June 28.
	Moline reminds residents on finance department’s change of location A reminder to Moline residents on the location of the city’s finance department.
	Eagle Ridge Resort, Galena, hosts three days of patriotic events This Independence Day weekend, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa will transform into a tribute to America's veterans as it hosts A Soaring Salute, a two-day Fourth of July celebration benefiting Honor Flight of Dubuque and the Tri-States. Taking place July 3-4, the patriotic events will bring together veterans, military families, history enthusiasts, local residents, and visitors for a weekend [...]
	Bettendorf man pleads guilty to possessing child sex abuse materials A Bettendorf man has pleaded guilty to possessing child sex abuse materials during a hearing in Scott County District Court.
	More buildings evacuated in Muscatine, Salvation Army, Muscatine County Emergency Management open reception center in response All buildings on the north side of the 200 block of second street in Muscatine are now being evacuated
	Knox Arts in Action offers summer community art pop-up workshops This summer, Knox College is offering free summer pop-up art workshops for all ages and skill levels through the Arts in Action program. Participants can learn various forms of art, including collage, drawing, music, poetry, and printmaking. Associate Professor of Dance Kathleen Ridlon will oversee the work of six Knox student artists, a news release [...]
	Hooppole celebrates 50 years, nation's 250th anniversary Hooppole Fun Day celebrates 50 years in 2026, and a big celebration is planned to coincide with America 250, a news release says. The decades-long event returns on Saturday, June 27, with a full day of family activities, live music, a parade, and fireworks. The festivities kick off early in Hooppole for local bakers with [...]
	Memories of Muscatine: A newspaper office in the late 1800s This week for Memories of Muscatine: The Daily and Weekly Tribune and Job Office in the late 1800s.
	Judy Blume says she's done writing: '50 years is enough!' Judy Blume wrote her last book more than a decade ago. At the Santa Fe International Literary Festival, NPR's Scott Simon talked to Blume about her long career and why she doesn't miss writing.
	These nuns spent a lifetime helping others. In their last years, who will help them? The sisters of Uganda are teachers, health-care advocates and more. Those who are in their twilight of their life need help. Who will come to their aid?
	Lowden to celebrate America's 250th anniversary with parade, family activities Lowden's America 250 Celebration will be on Saturday, June 27, at Lowden Memorial Park. As communities across the nation commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the residents of Lowden will observe a day-long celebration honoring the country's history and the small-town traditions that continue to bring Americans together. The event will feature [...]
	Fighting persists in Lebanon despite a ceasefire as U.S.-Iran deal is under threat Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon on Saturday killed at least seven people, including two children, hours after reports emerged of a ceasefire agreement.
	Henry Bosse This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Some promotions take place only after death. For many years, a number of large oval photographs of 19th century…
	Illinois pheasant and wildlife habitat grant applications begin July 1 The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will begin accepting applications for pheasant and wildlife habitat grant programs July 1. According to a release from the IDNR: The pheasant habitat and wildlife habitat programs enhance the natural environment for pheasant and wildlife through projects developed by not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities for conservation. Funding for [...]
	This couple got married at the end of Romeo and Juliet — and so will 31 others At Free Shakespeare in the Park in New York, real weddings are happening every night after a production of Romeo and Juliet. But don't those characters die?
	Shot by ICE and still in pain. LA detainee highlights gaps in DHS oversight Federal officers shot Ricardo Parias eight months ago during an ICE operation to detain him. His lawyer says he is still in pain, highlighting gaps in oversight and care in DHS facilities.
	Toy Story 5’s ‘Lilypad’ is an indictment of the world that birthed the ‘iPad Kid’ Some parents have called tablet computers the "square au pair." (Photo by Danielle Villasana/The Washington Post via Getty Images)In the trailer for “Toy Story 5,” a little girl named Bonnie is playing with her toys when a package arrives in the mail. She opens it to find Lilypad, a tablet for children. The iconic toys from the series — Woody, Buzz Lightyear, the Potato Heads, Forky and Slinky Dog – then watch in dismay as Bonnie casts them all aside in favor of the bright tablet screen. Rex the dinosaur exclaims, “What? Extinction? Not again!” The film zeros in on a uniquely 21st-century phenomenon: the “iPad kid,” a term used – often disparagingly – to describe a generation of children who grew up enchanted by screens. A lot of the discussion around tablet use among kids shames parents, framing it as an example of lazy or bad parenting. Yet factors such as long working hours and lack of access to affordable childcare compel many parents to rely on tablets. As a scholar of the attention economy — and also as a mom to a 4-year-old — I’ve noticed a disconnect between the resources U.S. society offers parents versus what’s expected of them in the digital age. The pandemic and the ‘square au pair’ When the first “Toy Story” came out in 1995, many single-income families could still afford to comfortably raise multiple kids. It was more common for new parents to live near their extended families, such as grandparents, to provide childcare support. Federal policies provided some low-income families with cash assistance that helped ease the cost of transition to parenthood. Since then, parenting has become a lot more challenging. Single-income households with kids under 18 have steadily declined as wages have stagnated, forcing both parents into the workforce. At the same time, it’s harder to qualify for government benefits. Even when moms do earn a paycheck, working moms experience what sociologists call the “motherhood penalty” – career disadvantages, such as lower wages and promotion barriers, due to childbirth – even as U.S. parental leave policies remain weak. So it’s hardly a surprise that fewer Americans are choosing to become parents under these conditions. But those who did have kids in the years leading up to 2020 ran smack into the COVID-19 pandemic. The lockdown that started in March 2020 following the outbreak of the pandemic led to closures of schools and many workplaces. Many parents either worked from home or provided critical work in grocery stores and hospitals. Kids stayed home and schools transitioned to remote-learning models. It’s important to remember that many institutions with social legitimacy and authority encouraged the use of tablets during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. School systems around the world normalized their use for remote learning. Children as young as 4 were given tablets, which gave their parents space to complete their own remote work and other household tasks, with some moms referring to it as “the square au pair.” In this sense, the tablet became a form of school-sanctioned childcare. Economic activity was minimally disrupted. Productivity hummed along. And the kids? Comfortably distracted. For some households, there’s little choice When lockdowns ended, tablets remained integrated into the education system. In 2021, 4 in 5 U.S. households with children had a tablet. Beyond schoolwork, kids also use tablets for activities, such as video games and watching TV. The adverse impacts of excessive screen time in general has been well documented for decades. But scholars have only recently unpacked the specific harms of interactive tablet use among young children. Children who use tablets are more likely to experience emotional dysregulation and dependency on screens. Researchers have also found tablet use among kids to be significantly associated with ADHD diagnoses. At the same time, research shows screen time use among children is tied to social class. Parents from working- and middle-class households are more likely to rely on screens compared to high-income parents, who can hire childcare services, such as full-time nannies. Parental education is also a factor. Americans generally have little grasp of digital hygiene – knowledge about best practices to minimize negative effects of screens. But households with parents who didn’t graduate from college are even more in the dark. And while schools hand out tablets, most of them fail to provide students and families with a comprehensive education on the adverse impacts of excessive screen time. In other words, this isn’t a Generation Alpha problem. Most people — adults included, with or without children — aren’t properly educated and informed about their choices around technology use. Yet adults continue to be shamed if they hand their kid a tablet. All the while, parents navigate the added burdens of challenging the educational status quo around tablets. Frankenstein’s village When work is the only sturdy pillar in a society where government benefits for low-income people, family ties and community institutions have eroded, tablets replace the metaphorical village — the web of social support that helps families thrive. In pursuit of jobs or affordable housing, many young parents move farther from their extended families and the communities where they grew up. The working parents who are forced to rely on daycare — sending kids as young as a few weeks old — end up spending an exorbitant amount of money on the service. Meanwhile, the persistence of traditional gender roles ensures that many moms still go home to a second shift: Working women continue to disproportionately cook, clean and care for children. No matter how overworked or exhausted some parents are, they cannot afford to hire help as the inflation and cost-of-living crises hit historic highs. Big Tech takes advantage of this crisis with a “solution” that ultimately treats children as products, manipulating their emotions and mining their data. As I argue in my book, “Attention and Alienation,” children’s dependency on screens is a key component of the attention economy. The earlier a life is monetized, the longer it is profitable. “Toy Story 5” and its critical take on the tablet may be helpful. But it will take more than a blockbuster movie to protect small kids from the harms of too much screen time. Instead, I think it will require strong parental leave policies, expansive and affordable childcare access, fair wages and shared household labor. In other words, there needs to be a full rehabilitation of the village. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Aarushi Bhandari is an assistant professor of sociology at Davidson College. Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary, here. Courtesy of Kansas Reflector
Friday, June 19th, 2026
	Iowa, Illinois county fair dates, events KWQC has compiled a full list of county fairs in the area including the dates and main events.
	'Find Local Bites' website helps locate meal deals in the Quad Cities The website was designed by a local developer.
	Home Runs for Life honors 6-year-old Bryce Gronowski Bryce was born with cerebral palsy, and he's overcome a lot on his journey to run the bases.
	Clinton celebrates the true meaning of Juneteenth The holiday's origins can be traced all the way back to 1863.
	5th annual 108th USCT memorial service held at Rock Island Arsenal Juneteenth is the holiday commemorating the day when the last slaves were informed of their freedom, in slavery's unofficial end in the United States. A longtime ceremony and celebration got underway once again on the Arsenal Island. Our Quad Cities News spoke to descendants of some of these honored soldiers. "I've had somebody ask me [...]
	Muscatine reception center set up to help those affected by 2nd Street evacuations In response to the Second Street evacuations in Muscatine, The American Red Cross - in partnership with The Salvation Army and Muscatine County Emergency Management - has opened a reception center to support people affected. The location is at The Salvation Army, 1000 Oregon St., Muscatine. Reception center services include a safe place to stay, [...]
	Officials release body camera footage of former Des Moines superintendent arrest Iowa State Patrol has released body camera video of the arrest of former Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts.
	Third man involved in Davenport shooting incident sentenced to probation A third man involved in a downtown Davenport shooting incident in November has been sentenced to five years on probation.
	Dunleavy vetoes nine bills, but Alaska lawmakers override two in special session flurry Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, speaks in favor of the veto override on Senate Bill 41 on Friday, June 19, 2026. Watching at left is Rep. Louise Stutes, R-Kodiak. (James Brooks photo/Alaska Beacon)Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy extended his record-high veto rate Thursday by vetoing nine of the 82 bills passed by lawmakers in the second year of the 34th Alaska State Legislature. Among the vetoed bills were measures that would have provided mental health lessons to kids in public schools, created a retirement plan for private-sector workers who don’t have one and updated the state’s corporate income tax system. Two of the vetoed bills — one expanding the power of pharmacists and the other covering the state’s board of engineers and architects — were put into law Friday after lawmakers overrode the governor. Dunleavy has now vetoed or attempted to veto almost one-fifth of all bills passed by the 34th Legislature. Other governors have issued more vetoes, but none have vetoed a higher proportion of bills than Dunleavy. Pharmacists’ powers expanded State legislators voted 43-17 on Friday to override Dunleavy’s veto of House Bill 195, which gives pharmacists more authority to prescribe medicines and conduct simple medical tests. Forty votes were needed. Rep. Genevieve Mina, D-Anchorage, spoke in favor of the override, saying the bill will enable Alaskans to get cheaper medical care from pharmacists instead of more expensive providers. Rep. Zack Fields, D-Anchorage, offered an example: For a parent with a child suffering from strep throat after their pediatrician had closed for the day, going to an urgent care clinic might cost hundreds of dollars, and an emergency room visit could cost thousands. “This bill allows a parent to take their child to a pharmacy” and get a strep throat test, he said. “We have a growing number of families in Alaska that cannot afford health insurance. If they can’t take their kid to a pharmacy, they’re just not going to get treated,” he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Some antiabortion advocates lobbied against the bill, saying they believe the bill could allow pharmacists to more easily dispense abortion-inducing drugs. Rep. Jamie Allard, R-Eagle River, spoke to that point, but Rep. Mike Prax, R-North Pole and a strong antiabortion advocate himself, said that information is incorrect. Alaska law limits who may perform an abortion in the state, Prax said. “It just simply isn’t an issue, and therefore the benefits of this bill clearly outweigh any of the risks,” he said. Interior designers added to architecture board Lawmakers also overrode Dunleavy’s veto of House Bill 314 by a 45-15 margin. Forty votes were needed. A revised version of a bill Dunleavy vetoed last year, HB 314 will regulate some aspects of interior design in the state by adding them to the State Board of Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors. The bill also renewed the board’s legal authority, and when Dunleavy vetoed HB 314, it could have at least temporarily eliminated the board as a side effect. While the duties of the board would have been assumed by the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, lawmakers said they did not want to eliminate the board just as the state considers a state-spanning natural gas pipeline. No extra oversight for for kids’ psychiatric facilities Forty of the Legislature’s 60 members are needed to override the veto of a policy bill, and legislators failed to reach that threshold on three votes Friday due to the opposition of Republican lawmakers. On House Bill 52, which would require increased oversight of youth psychiatric facilities, the vote was 36-24. The bill, from Rep. Maxine Dibert, D-Fairbanks, was introduced in response to reports of widespread problems at North Star psychiatric hospital in Anchorage. If enacted, the bill would have required unannounced state inspections of facilities like North Star and reports on the use of physical and chemical restraints on children, among other items. In his veto message, the governor said that while he supports oversight, he believes the bill duplicates what the state is already empowered to do. No mental health education in public schools Despite an impassioned speech from Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, the Legislature declined to override Dunleavy’s veto of Senate Bill 41, which would have required the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development to draft a mental health curriculum in the same way that it has a physical education program. Alaska Legislature approves plan for mental health education in schools Local districts would have been responsible for implementing that curriculum. The override vote was 38-22, two votes short of what was needed. The issue, Gray-Jackson told legislators Friday, is nothing short of a matter of life and death. Alaska has the highest suicide rate in the nation, she said, and “in many rural communities, suicide rates are nearly four times that the national average. Teaching our students how to recognize mental health challenges, to seek help and support one another, is one of the most basic and meaningful steps we can take to address this crisis.” In his veto message, the governor said, “this bill places the state in the role of imposing upon school districts to mandate the development of mental health education at a time when districts are already working to meet existing requirements.” “Decisions about sensitive classroom instruction, especially instruction involving a student’s mental and emotional health, should remain as close as possible to parents, local school boards, and communities,” he said. Gray-Jackson lambasted that statement, saying it repeated “false” and “harmful” misinformation from “online blogs and commentators.” “SB 41 didn’t remove parents from the conversation, it didn’t strip authority from local school boards, it didn’t replace community values with a one-size-fits-all mandate,” she said. “The reality is much simpler,” Gray-Jackson said. “The governor vetoed a bill with the potential to save lives in every community represented in this chamber, and I can’t emphasize that enough.” No retirement plans for minimum-wage workers Legislators failed by a single vote to override Dunleavy’s veto of Senate Bill 21, which would have provided state-run retirement plans for workers in businesses that do not currently offer retirement benefits. The program under SB 21, similar to efforts already launched by other states, would have principally affected minimum-wage workers and those in small businesses. Unless they opt out, eligible workers would have had 5% of their paychecks automatically deducted and deposited into an investment account managed by the state. In his veto message, the governor said he opposes a mandate, even with an opt-out provision. “Although employees may opt out, the bill relies on automatic enrollment and places employers in the middle of a state-run investment program. Alaska businesses should not be required to administer or facilitate retirement savings accounts created by the State when private retirement and investment options are already available,” Dunleavy wrote. The vote on an override was 39-21, with Rep. Kevin McCabe, R-Big Lake, casting the last and decisive vote to sustain the governor’s decision. No updates to corporate or tobacco taxes Of the governor’s nine vetoes, legislators declined to vote on four, permitting them to stand without a vote. Dunleavy vetoed two bills — House Bill 280 and Senate Bill 24 — saying that he is unwilling to approve tax changes without a comprehensive fiscal plan that brings state expenses and revenue into line over the long-term. Both bills had been passed in different forms by prior editions of the Legislature and were also previously vetoed by Dunleavy. If SB 24 had been enacted, it would have imposed Alaska’s first tax on e-cigarette products. HB 280 would have modernized the state’s corporate income tax system, taking tax revenue for online sales from other states to the Alaska treasury by declaring that sales to Alaskans take place in Alaska, not at the location of a warehouse or computer server operated by the seller. House Bill 23, also vetoed by the governor, would have subjected nonprofit businesses to the authority of the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights, which handles discrimination complaints against employers. “While I support protecting Alaskans from unlawful discrimination, this bill expands the commission’s reach over nonprofit employers, including charitable, educational, and religious organizations. That expansion creates uncertainty for small community organizations and risks unnecessary administrative proceedings and litigation,” the governor wrote in his veto message. The last of the vetoes, Senate Bill 258, would have forbidden the state from signing computer software deals that lock in the state to a particular company or limit the software to a particular geographic area. The governor’s veto message said in part that the “bill places rigid statutory limits on how the State and political subdivisions may contract for software in a highly technical and rapidly changing marketplace.” “Software licensing, cybersecurity requirements, cloud services, support, hosting, and pricing models are complex and often negotiated together. Restricting those negotiations in statute could reduce flexibility, limit access to needed products, and increase costs for agencies and local governments,” he wrote. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Alaska Beacon
	Aledo movie expands into scripted podcast series debuting June 25 The film "Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois" is now being turned into a 4-part comedy podcast with all the same characters and a brand new one!
	California couple takes over Rookies Sports Bar in Davenport Mike Burzynski and Liz Connaughton-Burzynski purchased Rookies recently and are gearing up to reopen soon.
	Bettendorf man accused of sexually abusing girl over two days in November A 29-year-old Bettendorf man is accused of sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl over two days in November.
	Friends, family and community members gather to remember the McFarland family in Muscatine A funeral service was held on Friday for members of the McFarland family, as loved ones shared memories and paid their respects.
	New Rock Island bagel shop offers scratch-made bagels Blue Collar Bagels, named in honor of Quad Cities history, has opened up its shop in downtown Rock Island.
	Rob Sand not ready to say whether he agrees with paying private companies for Iowa’s IT services Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand, a Democratic nominee for governor, said that he isn't ready to say whether he agrees with plans to switch information technology operations of state governement to two private companies.
	Tattoo festival, vinyl show and more among weekend activities in the Quad Cities Find out where you can find some fun times this Father's Day weekend!
	More buildings evacuated in Muscatine All buildings on the north side of the 200 block of second street in Muscatine are now being evacuated
	4 displaced after house fire in Davenport Officials said the fire spread into the residence, causing damage to the kitchen area.
	New Rock Island bagel shop offers bagels made from scratch Blue Collar Bagels, named after Quad Cities history, has opened up its shop in downtown Rock Island.
	'Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois' movie expands to comedy podcast The film debuted at last year's Rhubarb Festival. Now, the story is expanding into a four-part scripted podcast series, featuring the original characters.
	Bird's-eye views from across the Quad Cities region during the week of June 19, 2026 Sit back, relax and enjoy these scenes captured by the News 8 drone from across the Quad Cities region this week.
	Showers and storms looking more and more likely for Father's Day After a few passing showers Friday evening, things look good Saturday in the Quad Cities. We'll see sunshine and highs in the lower 80s. Sunday...doesn't look quite so good. Father's Day looks rainy with highs barely making it into the 70s. Showers and t'storms start up Sunday morning and linger throughout the day.
	New Perspective Silvis assisted living center celebrating 20th anniversary The event will have live music, a classic car show, food trucks and more.
	Clinton County officials warning of issues regarding door-to-door asphalt and paving solicitors Law enforcement in Iowa and the Midwest has received complaints alleging that transient contractors have used high-pressure sales tactics on unwary customers.
	Widespread rain Father’s Day Cooler than normal conditions expected mid-week before active pattern returns
	Eldridge police arrested suspect in child exploitation case The Eldridge Police Department, working in partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Child Exploitation Task Force based in Kansas City, Missouri, have announced the arrest of a 46-year-old Missouri man after an undercover investigation into online child exploitation, according to a news release. The arrest was on Thursday, June 18, after an investigator [...]
	Clinton Hy-Vee employee honored on company truck Hy-Vee honored a Clinton employee by putting her photo on one of the company’s semitrailers. According to a release from Hy-Vee: Jody Turner, greeter at the Clinton Hy-Vee, is a 2025 recipient of the Hy-Vee Legendary Customer Service Award, which recognizes exemplary achievement in providing service that exceeds customers’ expectations. Turner first started at the [...]
	James Burrows, director of classic shows 'Cheers' and 'Friends,' dies at 85 Burrows spent his career behind the camera specializing in situation comedies. Few viewers recognized him or knew his name, other than to see it flash quickly on the screen in the opening credits. But they knew his work.
	Local government roundup: New Davenport chief sworn in, settlements with parkgoers, church to be demolished From business grants to public safety programs, local governments took action on several major issues this week.
	A new study rewrites the history of the plague A new study looks at one of the most prolific pathogens in human history — the plague.
	Air Force One, gifted to Trump from Qatar, arrives at Joint Base Andrews The luxury Boeing 747, initially valued at $400 million, arrived ahead of schedule on Friday. The jet caused controversy as one of the biggest foreign gifts ever received by the U.S. government.
	Eldridge police and FBI arrest Missouri man in undercover child exploitation sting Eldridge police and the FBI arrested Christopher Cassidy, 46, after an undercover sting. He now faces multiple federal child exploitation charges.
	Juneteenth events taking place this weekend across the Quad Cities The Quad Cities has several Juneteenth events this weekend. The annual holiday is the oldest-known celebration commemorating the end of slavery.
	Trump and Italy's Giorgia Meloni used to be buds. But a rift is widening "Italy and I do not beg," Meloni said in a video rebuke posted on social media Friday. Italy's top diplomat, meanwhile, said he was cancelling a visit to the U.S because of the alleged remarks.
	Italy's Meloni, once Trump's closest ally in Europe, says he made up a story about her "Italy and I do not beg," Meloni said in a video rebuke posted on social media Friday. Italy's top diplomat, meanwhile, said he was cancelling a visit to the U.S because of the alleged remarks.
	Railway confirms 18 train cars blown off tracks near Monmouth during severe storm BNSF confirmed that 18 train cars derailed near Monmouth after severe storms.
	Muscatine plans to resume building demolition next week The city paused the project on Tuesday and will resume pending a review by a second structural engineer. It is also evacuating additional nearby buildings.
	Henry County approves 12-month moratoriums on carbon sequestration, data centers Under the carbon sequestration moratorium, Lapis Carbon Solutions can proceed with engineering work on its project, but cannot store carbon at the site.
	Death Notice: Joni King A celebration of life for Joni K. King, 71, of Eldridge, will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 26, at Faith Lutheran Church, Eldridge. Visitation will be Thursday, June 24, from 4-7 p.m. at the church. Chambers Funeral Home, Eldridge, is assisting the family with arrangements. Mrs. King died Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Fieldstone of DeWitt. Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church or to Stead Family Children's Hospital in Iowa City. Online condolences may be made at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com. A full obituary will appear in the June 24 edition of The NSP.
	4 displaced after overnight house fire in Davenport Officials said the fire spread into the residence, causing damage to the kitchen area.
	4 Your Money \| Small Cap Slumber Most investors focus on the S&P 500, but a significant portion of the market remains largely overlooked. Nate Kreinbrink, Financial Planner at NelsonCorp Wealth Management, explains why the performance gap continues for small cap stocks.
	We should transform a state watching the technology race to a state where the race is won A portion of a data center owned by Big Watt Digital north of Pierre, pictured on Dec. 23, 2025. (Photo by Meghan O'Brien/South Dakota Searchlight)America is in a race, one that will define global economic leadership for the next decade. China is aggressively positioning itself as a center for artificial intelligence development and deployment. The winner will capture enormous competitive advantages in innovation, job creation and geopolitical influence. But there’s a detail often overlooked in this high-stakes competition. None of it happens without reliable critical infrastructure, such as power and data centers. Winning the AI race is fundamentally about establishing the critical infrastructure that powers innovation. AI systems rely on data centers, and data centers require electricity. If the United States intends to remain competitive, we must be able to build and power that infrastructure efficiently and affordably. That requires thoughtful policy, modernized permitting and a clear commitment to growth. Data centers are not secondary to the tech economy. They are the foundation. The nation that builds and controls the most advanced, reliable and affordable data center infrastructure will lead in AI development and deployment. Here in South Dakota, we have the essential components to build this critical infrastructure. Our affordable energy, vast land and strong workforce create the necessary conditions for establishing data center facilities that can compete globally. Tech employment in our state has grown 17% in recent years, outpacing many parts of the country. This is a signal that South Dakota can support and sustain the specialized environment required for advanced infrastructure development. Sully County, home to SD’s largest data center, would welcome more with ‘open arms,’ official says But having these advantages is not enough. The window of opportunity is finite, and other states are mobilizing their own competitive advantages. If we want South Dakota to be where America builds the critical infrastructure that powers the AI future, we must act decisively. Supporting and enabling this infrastructure development is not a favor to industry. It is imperative for our state and our nation. Establishing critical data center infrastructure in South Dakota delivers immediate and long-term benefits for our communities. The Big Watt data center in Sully County alone contributes roughly $900,000 a year in kilowatt-hour taxes directly to local schools and could eventually provide more than $160 million annually as future phases come online. Its payroll already totals several million dollars a year, with nearly all staff drawn from within the region. This kind of investment can strengthen schools, support local businesses and create lasting economic opportunity. Additionally, construction and development of this infrastructure alone can support hundreds of electricians, contractors, engineers and skilled trades workers. These are good-paying jobs that circulate dollars through local businesses. For rural parts of our state, that kind of investment can be transformative. At Oahe Electric Cooperative, we see how thoughtful planning and load growth can support grid upgrades while protecting affordability for the families and small businesses we serve. We also know South Dakota is already a leader in renewable energy, with 29 wind projects totaling 3,476 megawatts, along with growing solar capacity and grid storage resources. As demand for electricity grows, we are taking on new generation responsibly through an all-of-the-above energy strategy that rests on a reliable foundation of natural gas and coal, accompanied by wind and solar resources. Just as importantly, data centers should be required to pay the upfront costs associated with their onboarding so existing consumers are not left subsidizing the infrastructure needed to support large-scale new load. When planned responsibly, this approach can support grid upgrades and new generation in ways that maintain reliability and protect affordability for South Dakota’s households and small businesses. The broader significance is strategic. By establishing critical infrastructure for the technology economy, South Dakota positions itself as essential to American competitiveness. We attract complementary investment, develop specialized workforce expertise and build advantages that strengthen our state’s position in the global economy for decades. If our policies create uncertainty or make infrastructure development financially unworkable, capital will flow to other states where the path is clearer and the commitment is stronger. We must transform from a state watching the technology race to a state where the race is won. Our state must act now to establish the critical infrastructure that will power American innovation for the next decade. This is our moment to position South Dakota as essential to winning the technology race. With practical regulations and a clear commitment to supporting data center infrastructure development, we can ensure that South Dakota is where America builds the advanced infrastructure that leads the world in artificial intelligence. The technology shaping the global economy will be powered by the infrastructure we build today. South Dakota can be that foundation. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of South Dakota Searchlight

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