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

Wednesday, June 24th, 2026
	Celebrate 250 years of America at Township picnic in Moline Rock Island Township, South Rock Island Township, Moline Township, South Moline Township, Blackhawk Township, and Hampton Township are hosting an old-fashioned picnic in the park on Thursday, July 2 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Moline Township, 620 18th Street. The theme is “Celebrate 250 Years of America” and participants can enjoy free food, [...]
	Driver tells deputies she rollover caused by deer in roadway A driver was cited for failure to maintain control after rolling a Chevrolet Malibu into a ditch in Mount Pleasant.
	Rock Island-Milan board approves new playground at Earl Hanson A new playground featuring slides and interactive play panels is planned for Earl Hanson Elementary.
	Downtown Davenport Partnership unveils new brand, upcoming projects The Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP) unveiled a new brand identity for Downtown Davenport and highlighted its pipeline of catalytic gateway projects at its Annual Meeting on June 24. The new brand reflects Downtown Davenport’s unique character, capturing the spirit of a downtown that is evolving, authentic and moving forward. “The story of Downtown Davenport has [...]
	Postal Service says its cash crisis is delayed until at least 2031, but problems loom The U.S. Postal Service is no longer set to be out of cash in 2027, the agency's head says. But its finances remain shaky as Trump officials keep putting it in political hot water.
	Will Texas' new top voting official be a 'disruptor'? Locals are preparing for it Just ahead of closely contested midterms, Texas is about to get a new top voting official. Many locals there fear the frontrunner is a state lawmaker and pastor with no election experience.
	Grading project closes part of Stewart Road, Muscatine Road work is underway on a grading project in Muscatine. Stewart Road (X61) is closed to traffic for a grading and PCC replacement project from 41st Street north to the Muscatine City limits. The subcontractor has started the grading portion of the project. When grading is complete, the prime contractor will move in to begin [...]
	How decentralized clinical trials are reshaping patient recruitment How decentralized clinical trials are reshaping patient recruitmentMany organizations are embracing decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) as a permanent part of their operational research offering. With the need to ensure diversity and adhere to health equity mandates in clinical trials, the benefits of decentralized clinical trials cannot be overlooked.Many populations remain excluded and underrepresented in clinical trials. How are decentralized clinical trials reshaping patient recruitment to resolve this? Understanding how DCTs help alleviate the burdens of traditional patient recruitment and deliver a strong ROI is the first step.In this guide from BusTest Express, decision-makers in enterprise organizations will learn everything they need to implement DCTs.Key TakeawaysSite-centric recruitment models are important, but they can increase costs and administrative obstacles, and lack true clinical representation across demographics.Decentralized clinical trials use a range of digital technologies to help underserved people in rural communities and other areas log information and participate in studies.A hybrid approach to clinical trials means that participants and enterprise-level organizations can blend convenience and innovation with occasional in-person appointments when needed.Digital tools, advertising and a strong community presence can improve recruitment for DCTs while building trust with participants.Mobile health fleets are an integral part of overcoming logistics barriers and ensuring compliance and safety across the supply chain.The challenges of an effective DCT can be overcome through strategic thinking and working with a single-source deployment partner to ensure quality and compliance.The Need for a New Model in Patient RecruitmentTraditional trial recruitment poses several challenges, prompting the need for DCTs as a broader solution. The challenges that more traditionally focused trials present include:The Financial BurdenA traditional, site-centric recruitment model entails high direct and indirect financial costs. These include:Site maintenance and staffing needs.Travel reimbursements for patients.Extended timelines due to slow recruitment.Screening failure rate costs for ineligible participants.Localized outreach and marketing costs to raise awareness.Many of these expenses also lack a clear, definable ROI metric. This means maximum spending without clarity on whether these investments have been worth it.The Operational DragSite-centric models entail greater administrative challenges. Staff are expected to handle multiple patients, many of whom will drop out due to the travel and time commitments required. The logistical complexities of reaching on-site destinations also lead to severe potential delays for those who do travel.A Lack of RepresentationA lack of diversity in clinical trials raises ethical concerns for strategic leaders. However, poor representation can also present significant regulatory and financial implications. A trial that fails to represent the real-world population leads to deeper problems, such as:Compromised validity: If a trial’s results can’t be generalized to the entire patient population, its real-world effectiveness and safety are unknown. This can cause significant risks for post-market performance and adoption.Increased regulatory hurdles: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now requires detailed diversity action plans to improve enrollment among underrepresented groups. Failure to do so can lead to costly delays and the potential rejection of a study.Reduced reputation and trust: Failing to conduct inclusive research, especially when health equity is a key performance measure, can severely damage your organization’s reputation. This may also lead to a lack of trust among the diverse communities you serve.DCTs are seen as the solution to overcoming barriers such as geographic location, ensuring the most accurate information is obtained.Decentralized Clinical Trials and the Evolution of ResearchObtaining true diversity and actionable data in a clinical trial can be the defining factor that determines success or failure. Organizations are embracing the benefits of decentralized clinical trials for patient recruitment, enabling a broader range of participants.What Is Used in a Decentralized Clinical Trial?A decentralized clinical trial uses a combination of digital technologies. These technologies are used alongside community-based services to encourage participation from people anywhere. While DCT models will use several advancements, the most common ones are:Telemedicine platforms: Secure videoconferencing software is used for virtual visits between participants and clinical staff. This platform reduces the need for in-person appointments for consultations and follow-ups.Wearable sensors: Devices like smartwatches, ECG monitors or continuous glucose monitors collect vital real-world evidence data. This data typically includes heart rate, activity levels and sleep patterns.Direct report platforms: These electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) and clinical outcome assessment (eCOA) tools are usually delivered via a smartphone app or tablet. They allow participants to report symptoms, quality of life and other information in real time through digital entries.Electronic informed consent (eConsent): These digital platforms manage the consent process remotely. They use interactive multimedia to ensure participants understand the trial before signing electronically, with all documentation recorded for regulatory compliance. BusTest Express These advancements help underserved people in rural areas participate in clinical trials.The Benefits of a Hybrid ModelWhile decentralized clinical trials help generate invaluable data, some in-person interactions remain important to maintain. However, adopting a more hybrid approach offers more flexibility. Organizations can benefit from having a centralized site with the added reach of decentralized solutions.The hybrid approach helps ensure everyone’s needs and requirements are met, including:Trials that can’t be completed remotely, such as biopsies, advanced imaging (MRIs, PET scans) or the administration of intravenous drugs.Participants who require periodic in-person contact due to serious health conditions or concerns about using technology.Early-stage trial phases or studies that involve unknown side effects and require close monitoring.Participants who lack reliable access to the internet or digital literacy and require additional equity support in person.This approach allows for site visits when necessary, while decentralizing anything else that can be done remotely.Strategies for Improving Recruitment With DCTsA strong recruitment strategy requires a combination of digital convenience, trust and a trial that’s easy for participants to take part in. Checking all these boxes ensures that a DCT achieves its desired results while earning the dedication of its participants.Designing for ParticipationOutreach is an important part of improving DCT recruitment. However, a trial that’s designed for patients is possibly the most powerful recruitment tool.Making the trial as convenient as possible keeps participants actively interested — whether through flexible scheduling or a simple, easy-to-follow user experience on digital platforms. Either way, look for any opportunity to reduce the physical, financial or time-related burdens participants face. BusTest Express Using Digital Tools to Broaden OutreachMany tools are available to help you reach participants. The following digital channels can contribute to a broader range of people taking part in a study:Social media campaigns: You can use social media to reach specific patient demographics or post on community forums with details about the trial.SEO landing pages: Create dedicated web pages using specific words that people eager to participate in a trial are already looking for. This strategy can increase potential sign-ups.Targeted digital ads: You can advertise directly on health-related websites, encouraging people who are browsing online to click for more information.Advocacy groups: By collaborating with online patient advocacy groups, you can share information with established readers while using the group’s credibility to build trust.AI is also being used in patient recruitment, streamlining the process of finding patients and matching them to ideal studies.Building Trust in Underserved PopulationsTechnology can develop greater awareness and establish trust, but underserved populations may require some community engagement. Many people nationwide still have a historical mistrust of medical studies.One of the many benefits of decentralized clinical trials is the opportunity to change perceptions. In populations like this, openly addressing past mistrust and partnering with local organizations can help build a more trusting relationship.The Role of Mobile Health Fleets in DCT SuccessMobile health fleets are an integral part of a successful decentralized clinical trial. They handle logistics and ensure compliance and effective supply chain management. Without dedicated mobile clinics, remote trials aren’t as effective or feasible.Single-source deployment partners work with you to bring the trial directly to patients. This partnership is crucial for decentralized clinical trials that face geographical constraints. They achieve dependable, trustworthy results in several ways.Home and Mobile Health ServicesThis process involves deploying well-trained healthcare professionals to a participant’s home. They perform tasks that can’t be done remotely, including drawing blood, administering infusions or performing physical assessments.This bridges the gap between what technology can do and what requires a hands-on clinical touch.Direct-To-Patient (DTP) LogisticsDTP logistics represent the entire supply chain. They manage the shipment of any investigational drugs and study materials. This process will also typically include sending the necessary equipment directly to a participant’s home.The logistics of getting drugs and materials to their intended destination are complex. They may include taking steps to protect the integrity of the products, such as keeping items in temperature-controlled packaging.Fleet Compliance and Regulatory ManagementManaging a fleet of vehicles can entail significant legal and administrative responsibilities. Some of these crucial management and compliance actions include:Ensuring that all vehicles, staff and trial participants are covered for the correct medical services.Managing commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and specialized training for operating large vehicles.Adhering to the different laws and regulations for providing mobile clinics in each state the fleet operates in.Sticking to a complex maintenance schedule to keep vehicles operational and reduce costly downtime.Due to the significance of these duties, many organizations partner with an enterprise physical infrastructure provider with certified professional operators to manage these challenges. Some key decision-makers may rely on an experienced turnkey solution for fleet logistics, leaving them to focus on clinical trial objectives.Challenges and Strategic ConsiderationsA successful transition to a more hybrid or decentralized model requires an understanding of its challenges. With this knowledge, organizations can prepare in advance to ensure an effective trial.Data Quality and IntegrityThe quality of any gathered data must be ensured. This strategy maintains accurate information when participants aren’t in a supervised setting. As remote data can come from a variety of devices, validating their accuracy when self-reported is crucial.Strategic ways to overcome this challenge include implementing training on remote management for investigators, or using centralized platforms to flag inconsistencies.Compliance and Data PrivacyDCT studies typically include home nurses, couriers and having to comply with several data and patient privacy laws. These regulations may include Europe’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).Laws can vary by region, and engaging with regulatory bodies as soon as possible is an important strategy. Protecting sensitive patient data requires a secure digital process with end-to-end data encryption for all transmissions.Mitigating the Digital DivideParticipants in low-income areas and the elderly are key demographics in many decentralized clinical trials. Expecting these people to have personal technology that can log information is unrealistic. To accurately measure results while maintaining diversity, it’s important to provide participants with preconfigured devices.Patient Engagement and RetentionMaintaining patient engagement can be challenging without regular face-to-face interaction. The hybrid model helps reduce dropout rates during a clinical trial. By combining the convenience of remote monitoring with an in-person visit to establish trust and build rapport, studies can remain on track.Logistics and Operational ComplexityThe operational complexities of DCTs can be challenging. They typically involve managing the shipment of temperature-sensitive drugs, coordinating home lab collections and tracking materials across hundreds of locations.Having a prepared logistics partnership plan in place can resolve many of these complexities. Entrusting these logistical requirements to a single-source deployment partner can streamline the process.Charting the Future of Your Clinical Trial StrategyFor many organizations, the future of clinical trials will be an evolution of traditional trials. Instead of thinking of it as a replacement for traditional trials, it should be seen as a more strategic and balanced approach to obtaining valuable data.Technology is a crucial component of this evolution. However, mobile solutions are a key contributor to advancing clinical research. By reaching patients where they live, complex logistical barriers of the past can be overcome. For patients, this means being seen and heard within an effective DCT program. For clinical trial organizers, this means greater data value and increased trust from previously untapped communities.When combining these strategies with a scalable fleet of mobile clinics, patient recruitment and retention rates can increase exponentially. For enterprise-level organizations, this can develop into a far-reaching and rewarding logistics partnership with an enterprise physical infrastructure provider.This story was produced by BusTest Express and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to get equity out of your home with no income How to get equity out of your home with no incomeHomeowners may be able to get equity out of their home with no income through a variety of methods, including home equity investments, reverse mortgages, and certain “no-doc” lending options. It’s good to know that these options are available, since traditional home equity loans and HELOCs typically require providers to verify a homeowner’s ability to repay, which can make qualifying more difficult without a steady source of income.Retirees, self-employed homeowners, and people receiving disability benefits often have substantial home equity but face challenges meeting traditional lending requirements. In this guide, Splitero explains how these options work, who they may fit best, and what homeowners should consider before choosing one.Key TakeawaysMost HELOCs and home equity loans require income verification because providers must evaluate a homeowner’s ability to repay under federal lending regulations, including standards established by the Dodd-Frank Act.A “no-doc HELOC” typically uses alternative documentation rather than eliminating income review entirely.Reverse mortgages may not require employment income, but providers still conduct financial assessments.Home equity investments use a different underwriting model that focuses on home equity, property value, and other qualifying factors rather than employment income.Why do HELOCs and other traditional options require income verification?Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), home equity loans, and most other mortgage-related lending products require income verification because federal regulations require providers to evaluate a homeowner’s ability to repay before approving credit.Following the 2008 housing crisis, the Dodd-Frank Act established “Ability-to-Repay” requirements for certain residential mortgage loans designed to reduce risky lending practices. While these specific rules do not apply to every type of home equity product, income and repayment evaluation remain standard underwriting practices across most traditional home equity lending.“All home equity loans are underwritten primarily on the borrower’s ability to repay and secondarily on the collateral value,” says Cody Schuiteboer, president and CEO of Best Interest Financial. “After the 2008 mortgage collapse, regulatory bodies enacted regulations that required providers to make a reasonable and good faith effort to determine a borrower’s ability to repay the loan before underwriting such transactions.”For most providers, that means reviewing income, employment, assets, credit history, and existing debts before approving a HELOC or home equity loan.Banks generally cannot just waive those requirements. As Schuiteboer explains, “Simply putting aside such a regulation for the sake of helping a borrower is not a policy choice that a bank can make alone.”Eric Croak, CFP and president of Croak Capital, notes that providers typically use debt-to-income ratios as part of the underwriting process. “Most lenders use a qualifying debt-to-income ratio under 43% to 45% as a benchmark when underwriting and usually require two years of W-2s, tax returns, or pay stubs.”These income and debt reviews are a core part of HELOC qualifications, which is why homeowners without traditional income often need to look beyond standard lending options when exploring ways to access their home equity.Still, it’s possible that having a large amount of equity in your home can open the door to other types of solutions, depending on your financial situation and how you qualify.What is a no-doc HELOC, and why is it still not truly “no income required?”A no-doc HELOC is a home equity line of credit that uses alternative documentation rather than traditional income verification. Despite the name, most no-doc HELOCs are not truly “no income required.”Instead of requesting W-2s, pay stubs, or tax returns, some providers may evaluate:Bank statementsAsset balancesRental incomeInvestment incomeSocial Security or pension income1099 incomeRequirements vary by provider, but alternative-documentation HELOCs are more generally offered to self-employed homeowners, business owners, real estate investors, and others whose income may not be reflected on traditional employment forms.According to Croak, “Bank statement loans qualify borrowers based on 12-24 months of business deposits and typically cost more than traditional HELOC rates.” Other alternative programs may allow homeowners with substantial assets to qualify using asset-depletion calculations rather than employment income.Because these programs often involve additional underwriting risk, providers may require stronger credit profiles, larger equity positions, or higher interest rates than traditional HELOC products.The key distinction is that providers are still verifying a homeowner’s ability to repay, but simply using different documentation to do so.Your options for accessing equity without traditional income documentationFor many homeowners, the challenge isn’t finding home equity. It’s finding a way to access that equity without relying on traditional employment income. The options below use different qualification methods and may fit different financial situations. Splitero No-doc HELOCA “no-doc” home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a type of HELOC that uses alternative forms of documentation instead of traditional income verification. A no-doc HELOC may fit self-employed homeowners or investors who have consistent cash flow but do not receive traditional W-2 income. Providers generally still require documentation such as bank statements or asset verification.No-doc home equity loanA no-doc home equity loan is a type of home equity loan that provides a lump-sum distribution instead of a revolving credit line. Like no-doc HELOCs, these products typically rely on alternative documentation rather than eliminating income review entirely, and may also be an option for homeowners with bad credit, depending on provider requirements.Reverse mortgageA reverse mortgage is a type of home loan designed for homeowners age 62 and older that allows them to access a portion of their home equity without monthly mortgage payments. However, providers still conduct a financial assessment to evaluate whether homeowners can continue meeting property-related obligations.Home equity investmentA home equity investment, also known as a home equity agreement or equity sharing agreement, provides homeowners with a lump sum in exchange for a share of their home’s future value. Because qualification is not based on employment income, some homeowners view this as a suitable alternative when traditional investment options are unavailable, particularly when they are looking for ways to access home equity without monthly payments.How a home equity investment qualifies you without income verificationUnlike traditional lending products, a home equity investment does not rely on a homeowner’s ability to make monthly payments. Instead, qualification focuses primarily on factors such as home value, available equity, property characteristics, and credit profile.Because there are no required monthly payments, providers can evaluate eligibility differently than banks offering HELOCs or home equity loans.Even when income documentation plays a smaller role, financial institutions still assess risk. “Within the realm of non-qualified-mortgage lending, lenders will evaluate the borrower’s liquidity, the size of an equity cushion, depth of the credit profile, and even the property type,” says Schuiteboer.Similarly, home equity investment providers generally focus on factors such as:Available home equityProperty valueProperty typeCredit profileGetting home equity with no income: guidance by situationRetirees receiving Social SecurityRetirees often have substantial home equity but limited employment income. A home equity investment may be worth considering because qualification does not depend on employment earnings, which can make it accessible even without W-2 income or traditional cash flow documentation.A reverse mortgage is another common option for homeowners age 62 and older, particularly those who want to access home equity while remaining in their home. However, providers still evaluate whether borrowers can continue paying property taxes, homeowners’ insurance premiums, and other required housing expenses, since those obligations remain the homeowner’s responsibility.Schuiteboer encourages retirees to think carefully about repayment structures before choosing a product. “Clients receiving Social Security or a fixed pension face risks related to payment structure,” he says. “For those who need some income, reverse mortgages and HECMs are great options.”Self-employed homeowners and gig workersSelf-employed homeowners may have the widest range of options available. A no-doc HELOC or no-doc home equity loan may work if you can document cash flow through bank statements, rental income, or other alternative sources. Home equity investments may also be worth evaluating because qualification is not based on traditional income documentation.One challenge for self-employed homeowners is that tax deductions can reduce qualifying income on paper. As Croak explains, “If you show $100,000 of income on your tax return but write off $40,000 in business expenses, you may only qualify for a home equity loan based on $60,000 of income earned.”The choice often comes down to whether you want a home equity option with monthly payments or a financing option that reduces upfront payments in exchange for sharing future home value. It's a good idea to compare all your options carefully before deciding.Homeowners receiving disability benefits or fixed pensionsHomeowners receiving disability benefits or pension income may find it difficult to qualify for traditional lending products, especially if income documentation does not fit standard underwriting models. A home equity investment may provide an alternative qualification path because employment income is not part of the underwriting process. Reverse mortgages may also be worth considering for homeowners age 62 and older who meet eligibility requirements.Next steps: Know your optionsBefore choosing any home equity option, it’s worth comparing the total long-term cost of each path, not just the upfront terms. Home equity investments, reverse mortgages, and no-doc lending products each carry different cost structures, and the right fit depends on your financial goals, timeline, and how long you plan to stay in your home. If you’re on a fixed income, consider how the repurchase obligation at the end of an HEI term could affect your finances, particularly if your home appreciates significantly over the life of the agreement.FAQCan I get equity out of my home if I’m unemployed or not working?Yes. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for a home equity investment, a reverse mortgage if you are age 62 or older, or certain “no-doc” lending options.Is a home equity investment a good idea?A home equity investment may be a good fit if you want to access your home equity without taking on monthly payments. Whether it makes sense depends on your financial goals, available equity, and long-term plans for the property.Can someone on disability or a fixed pension qualify for a home equity investment?Yes. Home equity investment providers generally do not rely on employment income verification, which may make them an option for homeowners receiving disability benefits or pension income.Can a retiree over 70 qualify to access their home equity?Yes. Depending on their circumstances, retirees may qualify for a reverse mortgage, a home equity investment, or other home equity solutions.Can I qualify for accessing my home equity with rental income but no W-2?Potentially. Some providers offering alternative-documentation HELOCs or home equity loans may consider rental income, bank statements, or other documentation instead of W-2 forms.Home equity investments (HEIs), also known as home equity agreements (HEAs), typically do not require income or employment verification, which can make them another option for homeowners with non-traditional income sources.What is the difference between a no-doc HELOC and a home equity investment?A no-doc home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a line of credit that allows homeowners to draw funds as needed up to an approved limit. A home equity investment (HEI), by contrast, provides a lump sum of cash upfront in exchange for a share of your home’s future value.While no-doc HELOCs may reduce documentation requirements, they generally still require some form of income or cash-flow verification. HEIs do not require income or employment verification and do not require monthly payments.This story was produced by Splitero and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: CHRISTIAN BEARD, 28, 5'10", 140 lbs. Wanted by Rock Island County Sheriff's Office for failure to appear for armed violence. BRIEANNA SUMMERS, 37, 6', [...]
	Woman arrested and charged after Burlington basement fire Shariah Collins faces charges of reckless use of fire and criminal trespass after being seen walking away from a Burlington basement fire.
	The AI boom's quiet hiring spree The AI boom's quiet hiring spreeOver the last several months, there has been an increase in headlines about white-collar jobs being eliminated by AI and automation. Data continues to show that this is more than a short-term trend, as seen across marketing roles, for example. However, an under-covered story is how these AI disruptions are also creating new opportunities for the roles that build and maintain the infrastructure that enables AI.As more companies deploy advanced AI systems, there is an increasing need for professionals to ensure that the data feeding it is AI-ready, that the AI decisions are accurate and auditable, and most importantly, that the systems are secure.These are the jobs showing up in the hiring data right now, as seen in Pave’s Hot Job Index, which scores and ranks jobs from −100 (cooling fast) to +100 (heating fast). This analysis of hiring momentum and role prevalence across more than 9,000 companies shows how organizations are redesigning their workforces to meet the evolving AI landscape.Pave takes a look at this trend in more detail.Data Governance: The Foundation AI Runs OnAI tools are only as effective as their inputs. As the saying goes, "garbage in, garbage out." As companies move from AI pilots to production deployment, they’re discovering they need teams to own the data frameworks, taxonomies, and quality standards that will make AI outputs consistently reliable. These are the data governance professionals—and until recently, most companies didn’t have one.This isn’t about cleaning up the data for a single project or just answering “Is this data correct right now?” Data governance teams are answering more challenging questions and ongoing questions: “Who owns this data, how often does it refresh, and can a system unfamiliar with the dataset interpret it?” AI is driving organizations to treat this as a permanent discipline rather than an ad hoc project.The data tells an interesting story: These roles were essentially flat or in decline for most of 2024 and 2025. Then something changed and prevalence jumped from 0.012% to 0.022% between July 2025 and January 2026—nearly doubling in two quarters. That inflection point tracks directly to when large-scale enterprise AI shifted from pilots to production. Pave This increased demand is also showing up in pay premiums at the more senior levels of the job function. While entry-level new hires are paid at nearly the same rate (99.9%), more senior team members command a premium—Career/senior and staff/expert are being paid a premium of 109.5% and 110.4%, respectively. This shows that companies may not be building junior talent pipelines; instead, they are placing greater value on the most experienced professionals in this space. Pave Internal Audit: AI’s Reality CheckWhile data governance focuses on AI inputs, the role of the internal audit professional is about AI accountability. Companies deploying AI systems that directly make or heavily influence real decisions (hiring, asset allocation, customer escalations, etc.) are increasingly required by boards and regulators to ensure the accuracy and defensibility of those decisions. This means the internal audit role is no longer focused just on financial decisions, but managerial ones as well.Whether a legal or management obligation, the job-to-be-done is to ensure that the company can reconstruct how an AI-influenced decision was made and whether it followed the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for that type of decision making.The data shows a nearly uninterrupted upward trend in prevalence from 0.057% to 0.089%—a 56% increase since October 2023. The hiring data is more dramatic: After a mild trough in late 2024, hiring accelerated sharply through 2025, reaching 0.129% in Q1 2026—well above the trend line of 0.112%. That gap between actual and trend is the signal that the urgency around this role shifted. Pave Current pay premiums further reinforce this: Career/senior hires command 113.8%, suggesting real competition for experienced internal auditors specifically.Information Security Operations: Guarding a Bigger PerimeterLong seen as business-critical in the SaaS era, information security operations (InfoSec) takes on new importance as AI creates new opportunities and vulnerabilities. This job was already in high demand, but the boom in AI adoption has launched this demand to new heights.Every business system is vulnerable to attack by bad actors. AI increases that potential risk and introduces new attack methods, such as prompt injection, model poisoning, and data exfiltration through AI interfaces. There is also a security risk of internal teams building “shadow agents” or using unsanctioned AI tools deployed without the necessary security review. InfoSec operations are the teams that monitor and respond to these types of threats, and their continued growth shows that companies are taking this seriously.Indeed, the Hot Jobs score of 69 is driven more by prevalence growth. Prevalence is up 71% from 0.14% to 0.24%, with a sharp acceleration in late 2025 that mirrors the pattern in both data governance and internal audit. Hiring data doesn't show the same surge, indicating that companies are building these teams steadily over time rather than reactively. Pave The Bigger PictureWhile these are three different roles within three different functions, there's a consistent pattern in the data: All three were relatively flat or modest through 2023 and into 2024, and all three show a meaningful acceleration in the back half of 2025. That timing maps cleanly to the shift from experimentation to large-scale deployment in enterprise AI, showing that these jobs are heating up as a direct result of the AI boom.The software engineer role is unlikely to go away anytime soon, but the near-term AI job creation is primarily outside of those engineering roles. The AI builders are getting the most attention, but the people who maintain AI’s data feeds, check its decision making, and defend it against attacks and vulnerabilities are the roles showing up most clearly in the hiring data.AI is still in the early innings, but the more decisions a company moves into AI systems, the more oversight those systems will require. As AI becomes more autonomous and regulation matures, the demand for the people who govern, audit, and secure these systems should continue to climb. The data is already showing it.This story was produced by Pave and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How to spot and get rid of fleas on your dog How to spot and get rid of fleas on your dogDid you know that “flea” is the common name for the order Siphonaptera, which includes 2,500 species of small flightless insects? While you might not care to learn about all 2,500, what is important is how they can impact your dog, and the rest of your household. Here’s what you should know about this pesky parasite and how you can keep your pup safe, Ollie reports.What are fleas?Fleas are flightless insects that live as external parasites on both mammals (like you and your dog) and birds. They feed on the blood of their hosts. Note that fleas don’t tend to live on humans since we lack the protection of feathers or fur, which makes it more challenging for them to reproduce. Even though we make lousy hosts, we can still be a tasty snack for a hungry flea. So, if there are fleas in your home, know that you can be bitten.What are the signs of fleas on dogs?Fleas leave behind some telltale signs—on your dog, on you, and around your home. Here’s what to look for:ItchingWhile itching can simply be a sign of allergies or dry skin, it can also mean fleas. If you have an itchy pet, you want to get to the root of why they are itchy so you can treat it. This is especially important if you think there are fleas in your home.Hair lossIf your pup is constantly itching, or worse—biting at the spots where the fleas are biting them—you might see some patches of hair loss. The hair loss usually comes from the scratching and biting itself, or from an allergic reaction to flea bites. Because it can also signal more serious skin conditions, it’s worth having your vet take a look if you spot hair loss alongside itching.Welts or red skinIf you see any welts or redness where your pup is itching or has lost hair, these could be from flea bites. The saliva of the flea can cause an allergic reaction.Pale gumsIf your pup is being bitten, they may have pale gums. This is because fleas feed off your pup’s blood and can cause your pup to become anemic.RestlessnessThe itching and discomfort of flea bites can cause your dog to become restless. Some dogs and breeds are more prone to restlessness. If your pup’s demeanor changes or the restlessness seems to come on suddenly, you might want to check for fleas.Signs of fleas on your bodyBites on your anklesIf you have a serious flea problem in your home or yard, you might start to see bites on your ankles and maybe even your knees. Unlike a spider bite, a flea bite will only have one puncture.Signs of fleas in your homeFlea dirtFlea dirt isn’t actually dirt, it’s flea feces, and you’ll want to look carefully for these reddish-brown flecks. While they could be just regular dust or dirt tracked in from the outdoors, if you think you might have fleas in your home, this is another good clue.Flea eggs in your carpetTo check for flea eggs, put on a pair of gloves and run your fingers through the carpet. You might need a magnifying glass to see the eggs on your gloves, but if you have fleas, you’ll likely see the eggs. When fleas are in your home, they lay their eggs in the carpet because it’s a safe place for them to grow and hatch undisturbed.How do I get rid of fleas on my dog?If you find fleas on your dog, you might want to start with a quick call to the vet to ask about topical treatment—especially if you think your pup is reacting to the bites. Use a flea shampoo recommended by your vet, and give your pup a warm, soapy bath. After the bath, work through their coat carefully with a special flea comb to get rid of the dead fleas and flea dirt. As you remove fleas, kill any that are still alive with the warm, soapy water. Using your hands can be challenging since fleas can jump large distances.Do I need to treat my house if my dog has fleas?If you find fleas or flea bites on your pup, you will need to treat your house. As we mentioned, fleas typically lay their eggs in the carpet, so even if you don’t currently see any fleas, you might as they hatch. If you don’t treat your dog’s things and your home to ensure the fleas are completely gone, you might have a recurrence.To get rid of these unwanted guests, start with a powerful vacuum on your carpets, dog bed, couch, and mattress. Once you’re done, remember not to let the vacuum bag linger. Throw it away outside your home. If you’re using a newer bagless model, empty the canister and ensure it is thoroughly cleaned out so no fleas are living in your vacuum.Then, use an upholstery cleaner powered by steam. The hot, soapy water should kill anything left behind after you vacuum. Be especially diligent about the places your pup likes to sleep.If the infestation is mild, wash all of your bedding and your pet’s in water that is as hot as you can safely use on the material. If your infestation is particularly bad, you may want to replace your pet’s bedding and maybe even your own.Treat your home with an insecticide designed to kill all life stages of fleas, including eggs. This is the place where your best bet is to bring in a pro. Ensure that whatever they use is safe for your family and your pet. If not, consider staying elsewhere while your home is being treated. You will most likely need to be out of the house for at least a few hours while the chemicals dry.How can I prevent fleas on my dog?There are many preventative options for your dog. Medications like Credelio, Frontline, and NexGard can be prescribed by your vet. For a three-month option, you can ask about Bravecto. There are also options for topical treatments and collars if your pup has contraindications for oral medication. Your vet can help you choose a preventative option that is best for your pup.Your pup should take their preventative all year round. While fleas prefer warm weather, seeing them in the winter is not impossible, especially if you live in a part of the world with higher temperatures.By using preventatives as directed, you will likely not need to worry about a flea infestation. However, if one does happen, now you are prepared.Marissa Taffer also contributed to this article.This story was produced by Ollie and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	US eases restriction on Iran's World Cup team, allowing travel 2 days before next match The U.S. is easing its restrictions on Iran's World Cup team. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Tuesday the squad could travel into the country two days before its next match.
	Galesburg Railroad Days begins soon Galesburg Railroad Days begins Thursday with a carnival, model train show, live music, and food trucks, running through Sunday in downtown.
	Millions of Americans owe more on their cars than they're worth. Here's how to get out of negative equity. Millions of Americans owe more on their cars than they're worth. Here's how to get out of negative equity.Most drivers don't know they're upside down or underwater on their car loan until they want to sell, trade in or refinance their vehicle. It can also leave them exposed if they total their vehicle and the insurance payout falls short of what they still owe.Owing more on a car than it’s worth has become a more common scenario than most people realize. Over 3 in 10 drivers trading in a vehicle in the first quarter of 2026 owed more on it than its worth, the highest share since 2021, according to Edmunds. The average deficit was $7,183 per vehicle.But negative equity does not always mean you’re in financial trouble. Many drivers become upside down because cars depreciate quickly, loan terms are longer, or they bought when vehicle prices were high. But it can limit your options and make your next financial move more expensive if you’re not careful.Here, Caribou shares the common causes of underwater car loans, how to tell if you're in one, and what options are available to get out of negative equity.What causes an upside-down car loanBeing upside down on an auto loan is usually caused by a combination of factors:Your car depreciated faster than your loan balance decreased. On average, new cars lose 30% value over the first two years, according to Kelley Blue Book.You made a small down payment or no down payment. Financing most or all of the purchase price gives you less equity from the start.You chose a long loan term. Longer terms can lower monthly payments, but they may slow down how quickly you build equity.Your APR is high. A higher APR means more of each payment may go toward interest instead of principal early in the loan.You rolled taxes, fees or add-ons into the loan. Financing extra costs can increase your loan balance beyond the vehicle’s value.You traded in a previous car with negative equity. Rolling old debt into a new loan can make it harder to get right-side up.You bought when vehicle prices were unusually high. If prices later fall or normalize, your car’s value may drop faster than expected.Your vehicle experienced accelerated wear and tear. While depreciation happens naturally, excessive deterioration can cause your car’s value to decline more rapidly than is typical.How to calculate if you’re upside downTo find out whether you’re underwater on your car loan, subtract your car’s current value from the loan payoff amount. Caribou Your payoff amount may be different from the balance shown on your monthly statement because it can include interest through a specific payoff date or other amounts owed. You can usually request a payoff quote from your lender.For your car’s value, look at a few sources (such as Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds) and be realistic. Trade-in value, private-party value and dealer offers can all be different.How to get out of negative equityThe right move depends on your car, your budget and how urgently you need to make a change.1. Keep the car longerThe simplest way to get out of negative equity is to keep your car and keep paying down the loan. This works best if your vehicle is reliable, the payment fits your budget and you don’t need to sell or trade in right away.2. Pay extra toward the loan principalPaying extra toward principal can help you get out of negative equity faster because it lowers the loan balance, not just the next monthly bill. Before making extra payments, ask your lender how to apply them directly to the principal.Even small moves such as rounding up your payment, making a one-time payment or paying a little extra each month can help. These car loan payoff strategies can help you decide what fits your budget.3. See whether refinancing could helpDon’t assume you won’t qualify for auto refinancing with negative equity. Approval depends on your credit, income, vehicle, payoff amount and loan-to-value ratio. Refinancing won’t erase negative equity, but a lower APR could help more of your payment go toward the balance.Be mindful of the term. A lower monthly payment can cost more over time if the loan is stretched too far. Before deciding, compare how loan terms affect the total cost of credit, use an auto refinance calculator to estimate savings, and review how pre-qualification and pre-approval work.4. Make sure you have GAP coverageIf you’re keeping your car longer, it’s especially important to have GAP insurance or a GAP waiver, which is designed to help cover the gap if your car is totaled or stolen and your insurance payout is less than your remaining loan balance. Terms and coverage vary by product and provider, so be sure to ask questions so you get the right protection for your vehicle.“I am a firm believer in GAP,” says Athena Miller, a Honda CR-V owner from Michigan. “I had a vehicle stolen many years ago and I had GAP insurance and it saved me.”GAP doesn’t remove negative equity while you still own and drive the car. But, it’s designed to help cover the difference between your car’s value and the remaining loan balance in a total-loss situation, which could save you thousands of dollars for a car you are no longer able to drive.5. Avoid surprise repairs with a vehicle service contractIn addition to GAP coverage, a vehicle service contract (VSC) can help protect against surprise car costs if you plan to keep your car longer. Sometimes referred to as an extended warranty, a VSC is a paid protection plan that covers certain repairs after your manufacturer's warranty expires.Most plans exclude routine maintenance, normal wear and tear, and crash damage, but it can cover repairs to the engine, transmission, heating and cooling systems, brakes, and more. Some plans also include additional benefits like roadside assistance, towing, rental car reimbursement, or trip interruption coverage. Before you buy, read the covered parts list carefully to make sure the plan fits your vehicle and how you use it.Bottom lineThe best way to get out of a negative equity car loan is usually to keep the car longer and pay down the balance faster. Refinancing may help if you qualify for better terms, especially if your current APR is high. Trading in a car with negative equity can be costly if the old debt gets rolled into your next loan.Before you make a move, compare your payoff amount, car value, monthly payment and total loan cost. The right option is the one that helps you avoid carrying the same negative equity into your next car.This story was produced by Caribou and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The 4th of July is still about family, even as Americans feel the holiday is becoming more commercialized The 4th of July is still about family, even as Americans feel the holiday is becoming more commercializedThe Fourth of July has long been one of America's most recognizable traditions. From neighborhood cookouts and fireworks displays to road trips and community celebrations, Independence Day remains a summer staple for millions of Americans.A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. respondents by Mecca Bingo suggests Americans are approaching the Fourth of July celebration a little differently in 2026. Rising prices, shifting priorities, and growing perceptions of commercialization are all influencing how people plan to spend the holiday weekend.Even so, one thing remains unchanged: For most Americans, the Fourth of July is still fundamentally about spending time with family and friends. Mecca Bingo Cookouts and fireworks continue to define the fourthWhen asked how they plan to celebrate Independence Day this year, Americans overwhelmingly pointed to two classic traditions.More than half (55%) said they plan to host or attend a barbecue or cookout, making it the most popular Fourth of July activity in 2026. Fireworks remain nearly as popular, with 51% planning to attend a fireworks display.Beyond those staples, celebrations become more varied. Nearly 1 in 5 Americans (18%) plan to attend a parade, while 16% expect to travel or take a vacation. Another 16% said they plan to spend time at a beach or lake, and 13% intend to attend a concert or festival.At the same time, 17% reported that they don't typically celebrate the Fourth of July at all, highlighting that national holidays are becoming increasingly personal rather than universal.Family comes before traditionAlthough fireworks and cookouts dominate public celebrations, Americans say the people they're with matter more than the activities themselves.When asked which Fourth of July tradition is most important to them, spending time with family and friends ranked first, selected by more than a quarter (27%) of respondents.Fireworks followed at 24%, while barbecues and cookouts came in at 22%.More traditional patriotic activities ranked significantly lower. Just 8% identified parades as the most important part of the holiday, while another 8% chose displaying the American flag. Patriotic concerts and music were selected by only 3% of respondents.The results suggest that for many Americans, Independence Day has become less about formal patriotic observances and more about creating opportunities to gather with loved ones.More Americans see commercialization than patriotismWhile Americans continue to celebrate, many believe the holiday has changed over time.A majority of respondents (57%) said Fourth of July celebrations today are more commercialized than patriotic. In contrast, under a third (29%) believe the holiday remains primarily patriotic, while 14% are unsure.For many, the Fourth of July is less about symbolic displays and more about spending quality time with family, friends, and local communities.Most Americans are staying close to homeDespite the holiday's reputation as a major travel weekend, most Americans aren't planning to go far this year.Over half (54%) of Americans said they intend to stay local this Fourth of July. Under a third (29%) of Americans plan to travel somewhere within their state, whereas 17% expect to travel out of state, equating to roughly 44 million Americans.Americans are celebrating with budgets in mindEconomic concerns are also influencing how people plan to celebrate this year.Almost 1 in 4 (23%) expect to spend between $25 and $49 on their Fourth of July activities. Another 22% anticipate spending between $50 and $99, while 19% expect to spend less than $25.One in 6 (15%) Americans plan to spend between $100 and $199, while only 6% expect to spend more than $200.Notably, 15% said they don't plan to spend anything at all.The numbers suggest that while Americans are still eager to celebrate, many are doing so with careful budgeting in mind.Inflation is affecting holiday plansFor many households, rising costs are having a direct impact on how the holiday unfolds.Two-thirds of Americans (66%) said higher prices have affected their Fourth of July plans in some way. More than a quarter (28%) reported being significantly affected, while 38% said rising costs had somewhat influenced their decisions.Over a third (34%) said inflation had not impacted their plans.Rather than canceling celebrations altogether, many Americans appear to be adapting by staying local, reducing spending, or focusing on lower-cost activities that still allow them to participate in the holiday.A holiday that's evolving alongside AmericaThe Fourth of July has changed dramatically over the decades. What began as a day centered on civic ceremonies and patriotic observances has expanded into a broader cultural event that includes travel, entertainment, food, and community gatherings.The 2026 survey suggests Americans recognize those changes. Many believe the holiday has become increasingly commercialized, and rising costs are influencing how they celebrate.Yet the core appeal of Independence Day remains remarkably consistent.Whether they're gathering around a backyard grill, watching fireworks after sunset, or spending the day with family and friends, Americans continue to use the holiday as an opportunity to connect with the people around them.In 2026, that sense of togetherness and family appears to be the tradition that matters most.MethodologyTo uncover the Fourth of July attitudes, Mecca Bingo conducted a nationwide survey of 2,000 U.S. respondents in June 2026. The survey is nationally representative of age (25+), gender and state.This story was produced by Mecca Bingo and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Morrison July utility billing delayed due to new software New computer software in Morrison means that July’s utility billing will be delayed. A news release says the City of Morrison will transition to a new computer software platform with BS&A Software on July 7 to support utility billing, payments and customer information. Utility billing for July 1 will be delayed due to the transition. [...]
	Winey Wednesday: Tycoga Winery It's Winey Wednesday and we're tasting a semi sweet white edelweiss from Tycoga Winery and Distillery.
	Muscatine’s history lives on through riverfront, landmarks and pearl button legacy From the Mississippi River that helped build the city to landmarks that have stood for generations, Muscatine’s history remains visible throughout the community nearly 200 years after its founding.
	Coralville Police K-9 dies after nearly a decade of service K9 Matz served the department for nearly 10 years, joining the department in 2017.
	How much do ChatGPT ads cost? A 2026 pricing guide for marketers How much do ChatGPT ads cost? A 2026 pricing guide for marketersChatGPT ads cost $3 to $5 per click on a cost-per-click (CPC) basis, or roughly $25 to $60 per 1,000 impressions on a cost-per-mille (CPM) basis. Your actual ChatGPT ads cost depends on your campaign objective, your max bid, ad relevance, audience fit, and how competitive the eligible conversation context is.The bigger question for most marketing teams is not just how much ChatGPT ads cost, but whether the pricing makes sense for the way buyers research, compare, and decide inside AI conversations. This guide from WebFX walks through the current ChatGPT ads CPC and CPM rates, the access requirements, and how to size a test budget that gives your team real data to work with.How much do ChatGPT ads cost?ChatGPT ads cost $3 to $5 per click for CPC campaigns or up to $60 per 1,000 impressions for CPM campaigns, based on OpenAI’s official bid guidance. OpenAI lists $60 CPM as the default max bid, while Digiday reported some advertisers seeing CPMs as low as $25.Here is the current ChatGPT ads pricing at a glance: WebFX ChatGPT ads cost less predictably than a fixed-rate media buy because OpenAI uses a relevance-weighted, second-price auction. Your final cost depends on more than your bid. Ad quality, landing page fit, context hint accuracy, and how many advertisers compete for the same conversation all affect what you actually pay.On the access side, early launch partners reportedly faced six-figure commitments to advertise on ChatGPT, with ADWEEK reporting a $200,000 minimum. That minimum dropped to $50,000 in April 2026, then was removed entirely when OpenAI launched the self-serve Ads Manager Beta for U.S. advertisers on May 5, 2026. OpenAI’s VP of monetization, Benji Shomair, confirmed the change on record, so any approved U.S. advertiser can now launch a campaign with whatever budget fits their test.How ChatGPT ads CPC pricing worksChatGPT ads CPC pricing means you pay only when someone clicks your ad, not when your ad appears in a conversation. OpenAI recommends a starting max bid of $3 to $5 USD per click for CPC campaigns, which puts ChatGPT ads in a familiar range for advertisers used to Google or Microsoft search.A few important details about how CPC bidding works on ChatGPT:CPC stands for cost per click. You set a max bid, and the auction decides what you actually pay per click.You buy CPC by choosing the Clicks objective. This objective fits traffic goals, demo requests, quote requests, content downloads, and ecommerce visits.Your max bid is not your final average CPC. OpenAI uses a second-price auction, which means winners typically pay just enough to beat the next-highest competitive bid, not the full ceiling.CPC makes ChatGPT ads easier to benchmark. You can compare cost per click directly against Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, Meta Ads, and LinkedIn Ads.One caveat: Conversion tracking on ChatGPT is still maturing. OpenAI launched a Conversions API and a pixel-based measurement tool on May 5, 2026, but the reporting ecosystem is younger than what you get from Google or Meta. ChatGPT ads CPC turns AI conversations into a performance channel because you pay for traffic instead of exposure alone, but you will need to build cleaner attribution to judge results.How ChatGPT ads CPM pricing worksChatGPT ads CPM pricing means you pay for every 1,000 ad impressions, whether or not a user clicks. OpenAI lists $60 CPM as the default max bid for CPM campaigns, though real-world rates have fallen to as low as $25 as the auction has matured.Here is how CPM works on ChatGPT:CPM stands for cost per thousand impressions. You pay for visibility, not action.You buy CPM by choosing the Reach objective. This objective fits brand awareness, category entry points, and early AI visibility plays.CPM can feel expensive without strong downstream tracking. If your impressions do not lead to qualified clicks or conversions, the cost adds up quickly.A quick CPM cost example at the $60 default max bid:10,000 impressions at $60 CPM = $60050,000 impressions at $60 CPM = $3,000100,000 impressions at $60 CPM = $6,000At the lower $25 clearing rate, those same impression volumes cost $250, $1,250, and $2,500. The spread is wide, which is exactly why bid strategy and ad quality matter so much on ChatGPT.What affects your ChatGPT ads cost (and how to lower it)Your ChatGPT ads cost depends on bid strategy, ad relevance, conversation context, landing page quality, campaign objective, and competition for similar user intent. You can lower it by improving each of these levers, not just by cutting your bid.Here are the factors that move your cost, with the actions you can take for each:Campaign objective. Clicks campaigns use CPC pricing, Reach campaigns use CPM pricing. Choose the objective that matches your goal, so you do not pay for impressions when you need conversions.Max bid. Higher bids can improve delivery, but they do not guarantee cheaper conversions. Start at the recommended $3 to $5 CPC floor and raise only when your data justifies it.Conversation relevance. OpenAI matches ads to conversation context, intent, ad title, copy, and landing page. Write specific context hints that describe exactly where your offer belongs.Ad quality. Clear headlines, direct copy, and a strong landing page improve relevance scores and lower your effective cost in the auction.Landing page match. A generic homepage wastes clicks. Send each ad to a page built for the prompt intent behind the conversation.Audience availability. ChatGPT ads only reach Free and Go users in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Plus, Pro, and Business subscribers, plus any users OpenAI identifies as under 18, never see ads. Plan around that audience pool when forecasting reach and cost.Competition. More advertisers bidding for high-value conversations raises cost. Test one offer at a time so you can read auction shifts cleanly.Tracking discipline. Use UTM parameters to separate ChatGPT traffic from your other paid channels, and watch down-funnel quality. A cheap click that never converts still wastes spend.The fastest cost reductions usually come from relevance and landing page improvements, not from chasing lower bids. A $5 click that converts at 6% beats a $3 click that converts at 1% every time.How much should you budget for ChatGPT ads (and is it worth testing)?A practical ChatGPT ads test budget needs enough clicks or impressions to judge real performance, not just enough spend to try the platform once. The channel is worth testing if your buyers already use AI tools to research products, compare providers, or shortlist solutions before contacting sales.Use these budget tiers to plan your test:Entry-level test budget ($5,000 to $10,000 per month). At $3 to $5 CPC, $5,000 buys roughly 1,000 to 1,666 clicks before factoring in conversion rate and auction variation. Use this tier to learn the platform on CPC, get clean tracking in place, and find the conversation contexts that match your buyers.Mid-range pilot ($15,000 to $30,000 per month). This range gives you room to run CPC and CPM in parallel. As an example split, $6,000 at a $25 CPM clearing rate buys up to 240,000 impressions, while $10,000 of CPC at $5 max bid buys 2,000 clicks, leaving budget for testing and optimization. Use this tier to compare downstream quality between the two pricing models and test multiple offers against each other.Scaled campaigns ($50,000+ per month). This tier supports CPM for category presence and CPC for performance, side by side. At a $25 CPM rate, $30,000 buys 1.2 million impressions, while $50,000 of CPC at $5 max bid buys 10,000 clicks. Use this tier when you have proven the channel works and want to defend share of voice in high-intent AI conversations.ChatGPT ads are often utilized by these types of advertisers:B2B software and servicesHigh-consideration ecommerceFinancial servicesTravel and hospitalityEducation and trainingHome services with strong lead tracking in placeBrands already investing in SEO, PPC, and AI visibilityChatGPT ads do not fit as well for:Budgets too small to gather meaningful test dataBusinesses without conversion trackingBrands with weak landing pagesTeams expecting ChatGPT ads to behave exactly like Google Search adsPaid visibility in ChatGPT should sit beside SEO, PPC, and AI visibility, not replace them. ChatGPT ads buy placement to Free and Go users only, but organic AI visibility through AI search optimization helps your brand show up in unpaid AI-generated recommendations across every ChatGPT tier, including the Plus, Pro, and Business users who never see ads.Are ChatGPT ads expensive compared to other ad channels?ChatGPT ads can look expensive on a CPM basis, but CPC pricing puts the channel right in line with Google Search and above Meta on a per-click basis. The $3 to $5 ChatGPT CPC sits well below median Google Ads CPCs in most B2B verticals, while costing more than the typical Facebook click.Here is a quick cost comparison across the three platforms: WebFX For Google Ads, the spread is huge because median CPC depends entirely on your vertical. Based on WebFX’s 2026 PPC benchmarks, median CPCs run $20 to $25 in Logistics, $25 to $40 in Healthcare, $75 to $100 in Home Services, $250 to $300 in SaaS, and $900 to $1,100 in Insurance. Meta Ads (Facebook) CPCs average $1.06 to $1.72 across industries, according to WebFX’s Meta marketing benchmarks.A few important considerations before you compare costs across channels:A $3 to $5 ChatGPT CPC sits below most B2B Google CPC medians, which makes it competitive on raw cost for high-value verticals like SaaS, professional services, and manufacturing.A $60 default max CPM (with some advertisers reportedly seeing CPMs as low as $25) runs significantly higher than Meta’s $7.47 average CPM, so it needs stronger justification through downstream conversion data.ChatGPT ads reach buyers in a conversational research environment, not a feed or a SERP. That changes the value of a click.Cost alone does not tell the full story. Conversion rate, lead quality, sales cycle influence, and assisted conversions all matter.94% of B2B buyers use LLMs during their buying process, so a click from ChatGPT often comes from someone further along in the research process than a typical social click.The real test for ChatGPT ads pricing is not whether a $5 click beats a Google Ads click. The real test is whether that click came from a buyer who had already explained their problem, compared options, and asked ChatGPT for help deciding. That kind of intent is hard to find anywhere else, and it changes the value math.How to measure if ChatGPT ads pricing is worth itChatGPT ads pricing is worth testing when you can connect spend to clicks, conversions, pipeline, and revenue, not just stop at impressions. The reporting tools available today let you do that, though the ecosystem is still younger than what you get from Google or Meta.Here is what OpenAI gives you for measurement:Ads Manager Beta reporting covers impressions, clicks, spend, click-through rate (CTR), average CPC, average CPM, and conversions.Conversion measurement is available through the Conversions API and pixel-based tools launched on May 5, 2026.Static UTM parameters persist on ad clicks and flow into your existing analytics tools, so you can separate ChatGPT traffic from other paid channels.Down-funnel metrics like cost per qualified lead, cost per sales opportunity, and revenue influence give you a better picture than CTR alone.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	‘AI scientists’ are exploding across disciplines. Will they morph what gets researched? ‘AI scientists’ are exploding across disciplines. Will they morph what gets researched?When Google DeepMind co-founder and CEO Demis Hassabis articulated his vision for “AI scientists” that could develop and test their own hypotheses back in 2014, the idea was just that: a vision. Today, it’s reality.A growing number of AI systems designed to conduct scientific research — often called “AI co-scientists,” or seemingly increasingly, just “AI scientists” — are being rapidly developed, proliferated across new disciplines, and operating with increasing autonomy, The Infinite Loop by Nebius reports.“[It] challenges a little bit this ‘co-scientist’ [framing], because now it can just trigger a workflow with an open-ended question, and the agent can run for hours and come back to me with a full research program and…paper,” said Jonas Béal, head of product at biotech firm Owkin, who leads scientific strategy for the company’s K Pro AI Scientist.There have been early wins, but there are also clear challenges. These include ensuring agents have access to necessary data and that “they’re as productive as they are powerful,” as Béal put it, because they can go “off track.”The less obvious challenge is much higher stakes: with some research questions currently better suited for this technology, we risk developing a scientific monoculture. Some argue we need deliberate action to ensure that the embrace of AI scientists doesn’t morph what gets researched.Biopharma as the first-moverThe earliest efforts around “AI scientists” have coalesced around biopharma, with companies like Owkin and Lila Sciences creating systems for drug discovery.Google in 2025 launched its AI co-scientist, a multi-agent system based on its flagship Gemini model and designed to “mirror the reasoning process underpinning the scientific method.” While intended as general-purpose, the firm focused its first year validating it specifically with researchers in the life sciences.José R Penadés, a professor of microbiology at Imperial College London who ran one of the early validation studies, came out of it “impressed” after Google’s Co-Scientist quickly generated the correct hypothesis. The question on bacterial evolution he and fellow researchers prompted the system to investigate was one they had actually already solved. Cracking the case took them years, but the system came to the right conclusion after just two days.“It took a while for us to see the right answer, because sometimes in science, you are biased. And I think the system wasn’t biased,” Penadés said.The correct hypothesis was one of five the system generated, showing the vital role human experts play in making sense of AI outputs. This experiment was also just one of several Penadés conducted with Google’s Co-Scientist; in the others where it failed, he said it was either because it was a very new area of research or data was lacking. At the same time, the reason those experiments failed is exactly why AI scientists for drug research have taken off ahead of other fields.AlphaFold 2, DeepMind’s machine learning model that offered a stunning breakthrough about protein folding in 2020, certainly provided an early boost for AI in the sector. But the real key has been the abundance of data and previous work.“I think all the fields would totally benefit from the same kind of approach. The fact is, there's much less data that has been aggregated,” said Béal. “With all the clinical trials, all the research on cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, we've accumulated lots of data.”The flywheelThe rapid development of agentic AI that can autonomously set goals, use tools, code, and execute complex multi-step tasks has been a boon for the pursuit of AI co-scientists. As the excitement around agentic AI and AI scientists grows, so does the ambition to deliver these systems into new research domains and combine them with other emerging technologies.Matforge is building AI scientists to discover new materials for the semiconductor industry, and Periodic Labs is building AI scientists and autonomous labs for the physics and chemistry fields.Sakana AI, which built a general-purpose AI scientist to conduct experiments and write scientific papers, in 2025 had a paper generated by its system pass peer review and be accepted at a major machine learning conference.LabOS is another firm bringing AI scientists into the physical world, combining them with XR glasses and robotics. This allows the AI to see everything the scientist does, capturing procedural knowledge and helping reason through decisions in real time. What’s more, the AI system can connect with robotics systems many researchers already have in their labs for robotic execution of experimental procedures. LabOS is currently in final beta testing across five laboratories at Stanford, Princeton and the University of Washington. (Disclosure: Nebius, the parent organization of The Infinite Loop, is a founding partner of LabOS.)“The AI can design an experiment, watch it being performed, catch errors in real time, and even carry out procedures with scientists,” said Le Cong, an associate professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and co-founder of LabOS.The AI incentive problemA study published in Nature in January 2026 revealed a telling paradox: Scientists who use AI tools in their research find more individual success (publishing more papers, garnering more citations, and becoming leaders in their field more quickly), yet collectively, AI usage leads to more overlapping research and shrinks the diversity of scientific topics studied overall.James Evans, an author of the paper and University of Chicago professor who studies modern science technology, said this issue isn’t inherent to AI, but is rather a problem of incentives. Researchers naturally want to use the tools available to them and do work that will quickly be recognized as a breakthrough, making areas that already have abundant data, research activity, and are well-suited for AI workflows particularly attractive for further study.While Evans believes the emerging class of “AI scientists” will unlock more potential for discovery, he also fears it will worsen the incentives problem. The gradient, he said, is toward using these tools to squeeze out diminishing marginal increments from existing data and findings.To prevent a monoculture and achieve the fullest benefits of AI in scientific research, Evans argues we need to treat moonshot-esque problems as public goods and compensate scientists for the risk of undertaking low-probability research. Additionally, we need to bring the technology into physical experiments that enable scientists to gather new types of data from previously inaccessible domains.“I don't think that AI science or AI scientists are doomed to just produce the expected, but it's way cheaper for us to use them that way,” said Evans. “And it's way more immediately going to be recognized as successful.”This story was produced by The Infinite Loop by Nebius and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Here are 5 ways to spend less on running Here are 5 ways to spend less on runningIf you feel like joining the 50 million Americans who are runners, you might have the impression that the sport is basically free. You have a T-shirt, you have shorts, you have sneakers, and out the door you go. Right?Let Andrew Huynh disabuse you of that notion. The financial planner from Tolland, Connecticut, is an “avid” runner, and he wants you to know: Being a serious runner is most definitely not free.“The costs can add up quickly once you actually get started,” Huynh tells Current, a consumer fintech banking platform. “I’ve seen many people underestimate the investment before even registering for a race, including shoes, nutrition, recovery tools, gym memberships, and training gear.”Total it all up, and the costs can get pretty eye-popping. According to a survey from Running USA, runners spent an average of $1,748 in the previous year on the sport.Add in so-called “runcations” — trips to marquee marathons around the world like London, Berlin, or Tokyo — and your hobby can truly start to heat up your credit cards.Since many runners right now are aiming toward races in the fall (longer distances typically take a few months of training), now is the perfect time to start planning things out. Some key advice, to get a handle on costs before they start to run away from you:Plan early, plan often. There are a host of reasons why preparing as early as possible will save you a significant amount of money. First, most races offer early discounts on entries, which ramp up over time as you get closer to the start date. Second, many races book hotel blocks for participants at special rates, which, for popular events, get booked up quickly. The same logic holds true for flights: The closer you get, the higher prices will go, if you can find anything available at all.One tip: Some specialty operators, like Marathon Tours & Travel, offer package deals that include flights, hotels, and guaranteed entries into hard-to-get races.Just be careful of the classic runner’s habit of signing up for too many races, which is money down the drain if you don’t end up participating. Instead, be selective and realistic about how many you will undertake.Also, it’s wise to click on the insurance option that almost every race offers: Life happens, you get derailed by work or illness, or an injury makes it impossible to compete. With insurance, at least you know you’ll be financially covered.Don’t go crazy on apparel. The fancy brands of the world won’t want to hear this, but there’s no reason to go overboard on pricey athletic wear. You do need synthetic materials, especially socks — cotton chafes, as every runner knows — but the reality is that entries in most races come with giveaways, such as tops or shorts. As a result, you can assemble a “free” wardrobe in a pretty short order.One place to splurge: Shoes. You should absolutely not skimp on running shoes by buying used gear, even though it may be tempting to do so. The reasons are both performance and injury related: Individual gaits require certain types of shoes, with particular cushioning. (You should ideally be filmed and analyzed on a treadmill, which they can do at many running specialty shops, or some stores also will analyze your patterns with a short jog and measurements.) So if you’re buying a random shoe, which has already been worn down over time, you’re just asking for trouble.“Great shoes are the only true ongoing requirement, and you shouldn’t skimp on cost,” says Ralph Bender, a financial planner with Enduring Wealth Advisors in Temecula, California. “Rotate several pairs, log the miles, and use them for casual wear after retiring them; 400-500 miles is my running limit.”Use free apps. Sure, tech tools like GPS smartwatches look pretty darn cool. That’s why 12% of runners spent more than $400 in the previous year on tech gear, according to the Running USA survey.But do you really need one? The Garmin version picked in Runner’s World’s 2024 “Gear of the Year” feature, for instance, runs almost $1,000. Most runners don’t really need that level of functionality, so consider apps you can install on your phone, like Runkeeper, Strava, or MapMyRun. Some even have a coaching element, like Nike Run Club, which can save costs on individualized in-person training.Save in advance. If you’re aiming for a longer race, such as a half-marathon or full marathon, then you have a built-in time runway. Proper training takes a few months, so that you can ramp up training distances slowly and not risk injury from going too far, too fast.In a similar way, you can also use that period to prepare your finances. Save a little bit every week in a higher-yielding savings account and automate a portion of your paycheck to it each time you get paid. The resulting stash can help with running-related expenses as you get closer to the starting line.“Planning ahead makes a huge difference,” says Huynh. “Buying gear during holiday sales, registering during early-bird pricing windows, and budgeting for travel upfront can help runners feel excited for race day instead of financially stressed by it.”This story was produced by Current and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The portfolio moves that pay off when markets get weird The portfolio moves that pay off when markets get weirdWhen every headline suggests analysts don’t know which way the market is going, it may feel like the right thing to do is immediately react to the latest trend reports of a volatile market, but it might be wiser to just wait it out. Intuit TurboTax shares what’s worth your attention to protect your portfolio. The goal of this article is to show you where individual investors commonly look during uncertain markets, explain the tradeoffs, and let you decide what fits your personal situation.Mistaking complexity for progressA common mistake for investors is assuming that a larger portfolio requires a more complicated strategy. Often, the opposite is true.You don’t need five new accounts and an elaborate portfolio of speculative stocks. For investors, managing market volatility starts with knowing what you have, not guessing what the market will do.That looks like asking:How much is in long-term retirement accounts?How much do I have in cash?How much, if any, is in a taxable brokerage account?The next time you pull up your investment account, like a Roth IRA, look at it a little differently than you used to.What is a Roth IRA?A Roth IRA isn’t an investment itself; it’s a tax-advantaged account that holds your investments. Contributions go in after tax, and qualified withdrawals come out tax-free. To qualify for tax-free withdrawals, you generally need to be at least 59 1/2 and have held the account for at least five years. Keep in mind that Roth IRA eligibility phases out at higher income levels.Instead of asking, “Did my investments do well?” ask, “Does the overall allocation still make sense?”Consider whether you’re holding the right mix across taxable and tax-advantaged accounts, and what a 20% market drop would actually mean for your financial goals.A list of investment vehicles and what they’re best forDepending on where you are personally, financially and in terms of risk tolerance, here are the investment vehicles worth knowing about.High-Yield Savings Accounts and CDsThe risk-averse portion of your portfolio, high-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) offer safety and a predictable return. They’re FDIC-backed, which means your principal is protected up to federal limits. They won’t outpace a bull market, but they won’t drop either.Dividend StocksDividend-paying stocks can provide an income stream even in down markets, which helps soften the volatility blow. Rather than relying entirely on share price appreciation, you collect regular payments simply for holding the stock.Index Funds and ETFsIndex funds and ETFs are a long-term cornerstone for most investors. Diversification is built in, and because they track a broad index rather than individual companies, they remove much of the timing pressure.REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)REITs give you real estate exposure without the need to own or manage property directly. By law, they’re required to distribute at least 90% of their income as dividends, which can make them attractive for income-focused investors during volatile periods.Treasury Bonds and I-BondsGovernment-backed securities like Treasury bonds and I-Bonds are a traditional safe harbor. I-Bonds in particular are inflation-adjusted, meaning their yield moves with inflation, which can be valuable when prices are rising and market returns are uncertain.Gold and CommoditiesGold and commodities have historically acted as a hedge because they can move independently of equities. A small allocation can help reduce overall portfolio volatility without abandoning growth-oriented investments entirely.CryptoUnlike stocks, crypto is not subject to the wash-sale rule, meaning you can sell at a loss and immediately buy back the same asset. That said, tax rules around crypto continue to evolve, so it’s worth staying current or consulting a tax professional.Managing a portfolio is also about managing behaviorWhen headlines get louder, you don’t need to overhaul your entire portfolio. Focus on what would justify a real change and what is simply market noise.Rebalancing your portfolio once holdings drift too far from their intended mix is very different from panic-selling because a bad week feels like a personal injury. The first is a strategy. The second reaction is stress in action. It’s important to understand and know this distinction.For new investors, this is one reason portfolio management is emotional as much as it is mathematical. Many investors think the hard part is choosing investments. Often, the harder part is staying the course when the market gives new reasons to doubt your own strategy, sometimes on a daily basis.So, if you see your investment account go red, you might feel the urge to move the money back to savings, but before you do this, remember why you set it up in the first place: not to get rich quickly, but to see results over time.Taxes are part of portfolio managementOnce your portfolio starts growing, taxes become part of the picture, not just something to sort out in April.Selling at a profit creates a taxable gain. Dividends and interest are taxable, too. But if you have positions that are down, you can sell them to offset those gains. This is known as tax-loss harvesting, and it’s one of the few upsides of a rough market.It also matters how long you’ve held something before you sell. Hold for more than a year, and you pay a lower tax rate. Sell too soon, and the bill goes up.Staying the courseMarket volatility feels very personal when investing is new. It may be the first red day, the first alarming headline, or the first moment of wondering whether to sell everything.A helpful approach is to decide in advance:How much of a drop feels tolerable based on goals and time horizon?How long is the investing timeline really?What will trigger a calm review, rather than a panic decision?You can’t control the market. What you can control is your system for handling money and the meaning you attach to each swing.In uncertain times, building wealth is less about being fearless and more about being prepared enough to keep going.This story was produced by Intuit TurboTax and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Ameren tells customers how to stay safe from scammers As scammers leverage powerful AI techniques to create convincing frauds, Ameren provides helpful tips on how to avoid common scams that target utility customers, a news release says. Scams are increasingly more convincing, which makes them harder to detect. Common tactics include official-looking emails, texts and websites; voice cloning that sounds like a real representative; [...]
	Getting married in 1 of these 9 states? Your spouse could be responsible for your debt Getting married in 1 of these 9 states? Your spouse could be responsible for your debtCommunity property laws provide a straightforward system for managing finances as a couple, in marriage, or in divorce. This system applies whether you're happily married or considering a financial strategy that will work for you in the future when you meet that special someone.In community property states, most things you and your spouse acquire while married belong equally to both of you. This means there's a clear starting point for figuring out a fair split if you do separate. Below, Achieve explains how understanding community property can make navigating the financial side of your relationship easier.Key takeaways:Community property includes things of value and debts acquired during the marriage (or in some states, during a domestic partnership).If you live in a community property state and get divorced, the starting point for your financial separation is a 50/50 split. The next step is to figure out what’s fair, if it’s not 50/50.If your name is on a debt, a divorce decree doesn’t void your responsibility for it.What is community property?Community property is the property that you and your spouse acquire during marriage, including what you own (assets) and what you owe (debts).Both spouses share ownership of community property, no matter who originally made the purchase or signed on for the debt. In other words, even if the asset or debt is in one person’s name, both spouses are owners.Not everything acquired during marriage is community property. For instance, when one spouse receives an inheritance, it’s separate (but it could unintentionally become community property, and we’ll explain how). Also, a prenuptial agreement will generally take precedence over community property laws, so that’s a way to keep property separate.There are nine community property states in the U.S.:ArizonaCaliforniaIdahoLouisianaNevadaNew MexicoTexasWashingtonWisconsinIn three additional states, couples can opt into community property laws:AlaskaSouth DakotaTennessee Does community property apply to unmarried couples living together?You might have to follow community property laws if you and your partner live in a state that recognizes common law marriages or domestic partnerships. A common law marriage is one where there was no marriage license or ceremony. A domestic partnership (called a civil union in some states) is a legal relationship between two committed people who want to gain certain rights afforded to married couples.California, Nevada, and Washington recognize domestic partnerships once you officially register with the state. Texas is the only community property state that fully recognizes common law marriage. Idaho recognizes common law marriages that were created before Jan. 1, 1996.How does community property work?In a community property state, the things you buy and the debt you take on during marriage are considered shared. Here are a few common examples:Any income you or your spouse earns, whether through a full-time job or a side businessPhysical property, like a car, a boat, or furnitureYour home or other real estate purchased during the marriageIncome from rental properties or stock dividendsMoney accumulated in brokerage and retirement accounts during the marriageDebts taken out during the marriageCommunity property matters if you end up divorcing or if one spouse dies.Community property and divorceIn the case of divorce, community property is divided equitably. That doesn't mean equally. That means fairly. But 50/50 is the starting point. The judge reviewing your divorce is likely to split everything down the middle unless you and your spouse agree on something different, or one of you can show why a 50/50 split is not fair.Community property and deathIn the case of death, community property rules can affect who inherits what and whether the surviving spouse is responsible for debts.If one spouse brings debt to the marriage, is the other spouse responsible?In most cases, spouses are not responsible for their partner’s debts that predate the marriage. Debt your spouse accumulated before you both got married is generally their responsibility alone. One exception to this rule would be if you opened a joint account or cosigned a loan before officially getting married.Why does community property matter for debt?In the case of death or divorce, you could be held financially responsible for any debts that are considered community property, even if your name isn’t on it, and even if you didn’t know about it.Not everything is subject to community property rules. If you or your spouse had your own separate assets or debts before the marriage, those won’t be split in the case of divorce unless they become commingled (no longer separate). Property can become commingled in many ways. For instance, if you bought your home before you got married, it’s your separate property. But if you add your spouse’s name to the deed, you now have community property. Similarly, if you came to the marriage with money, it’s separate. But if you use that money to buy a shared home, that money is no longer your separate property.Some of what you and your spouse acquire during your marriage may also count as separate property, such as:Property protected by a prenuptial agreementAssets you or your spouse separately inheritGifts to either spouseProperty or debt acquired during legal separationWhat if my spouse refuses to cooperate or take responsibility for joint debts?You're still responsible for joint debts, even if your spouse refuses to take any responsibility or work with you to pay them off. (And the reverse is also true.) When you get a loan or credit card, you enter into a legal contract with that creditor. A divorce decree doesn’t make that contract go away.Tackling debt on your own can be done with the right support and tools. Start by talking to an expert. A financial coach can help you learn strategies for managing your debt. If you’re thinking about divorce, or you’ve already started to separate from your spouse, talk to an attorney who specializes in divorce and estate planning.If you’re not sure of your options for dealing with debt, talking to a debt expert can help you figure out which debt solution might be right for your situation. The right answer depends on your financial situation, your credit standing, your financial outlook, and other details.A debt consolidation loan could streamline your debts and potentially get you a lower interest rate.You could negotiate with creditors on your own. Divorce and death are legitimate causes of financial hardship, and many creditors will work with you to deal with the debt.A professional debt relief company could help you resolve your debts for less than the full amount you owe if you are uncomfortable negotiating on your own.A bankruptcy attorney can let you know if bankruptcy would make sense for your situation.Any of these options could give you some breathing room as you navigate your way past community property obstacles.What’s nextTake stock of the assets you acquired before the marriage to determine what you own separately.Look at all your debts accumulated during the marriage to estimate what you may still owe after the divorce.Work with your spouse as best as you can to divide up assets you jointly own.Research options for getting rid of debt.This story was produced by Achieve and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What causes body odor, and how to prevent it What causes body odor, and how to prevent itBody odor can creep up on you when you’re least expecting it. If your daily activities are leading to issues with sweat and odor, Dove explains what causes body odor and how you can keep it at bay.What is body odor, and what does it smell like?Body odor is the unpleasant smell produced by sweat and bacteria on your body. Everyone’s body produces body odor at a different scent and rate. Some common body odor scents are sweet, sour, tangy, and even like onions. To some degree, everyone has body odor, but each person has unique triggers and bacteria that make their scent uniquely them.What causes body odor?Simply put, body odor is a combination of sweat and bacteria. However, there are many factors that impact body odor and reasons that some days you may think, “Why do I smell different than yesterday?”Diet: What you do or do not eat can drastically change your body odor. Foods that are high in sulfur can result in stronger-smelling body odor because sulfur itself can have a rotting-egg smell. There are other foods that simply make you sweat more and may not trigger body odor, but are a factor due to increased sweating.High sulfur foods that may increase BO: garlic, onion, cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli, red meatFoods that increase sweating: caffeine, alcohol, hot/spicy food, pungent spices (curry powder/cumin), very salty foodsWeather: Warmer weather can cause you to sweat more, thus increasing your chances of having smelly sweat, especially in the summer months.Tight clothes: Restrictive clothing can cause your body to sweat more than normal.Exercise: Working out or doing something that elevates your heart rate.Emotions: Big feelings can trigger sweating. These can be positive (excitement) or negative (stress).Hormones: You may sweat more when your body is going through drastic hormonal changes, including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.Medical conditions: Conditions around food processing, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease, can increase your risk of body odor since your body is having trouble properly digesting food.How body odor changesBody odor can vary greatly based on external factors in your daily life, as outlined above. If you think your body odor smells worse than the day before, think about anything in your life that may have changed from the day before.Does sweat smell?Surprisingly, sweat is mostly odorless. But what causes sweat to smell is when it meets the natural bacteria on your skin, developing that telltale odor. There are also different types of sweat: the kind that cools you down when your body is overheating, and what’s known as “psychological sweat” or “emotional sweat.” It’s what happens when you become anxious or stressed, and it tends to appear on your hands, armpits, and face. It’s also believed to be the smelliest kind, but that’s not always the case.How to help prevent body odorWhile body odor will always have some presence, there are things you can do to try to prevent body odor from smelling so bad:Practice good hygiene with regular showers/baths with your favorite soap.Use an exfoliating body scrub to gently remove dead skin cells.Select a deodorant or antiperspirant that works for you (whole-body deodorants can also help cover your pits to your toes).Wear breathable clothes.Mindful eating and avoiding sulfuric and sweat-inducing foods.Deep breaths to bring your heart rate down and manage stress levels.Seek medical advice if you are concerned about a long-lasting issue.This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Musco Sports Center hosts Inflatable Fun Day in Muscatine The Musco Sports Center will host the first Inflatable Fun Day from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. June 27–28. Community members of all ages are invited to enjoy “Fun Without the Sun” inside the Musco Sports Center. The event will feature a variety of inflatable bounce houses, an obstacle course, and space for activities like soccer and [...]
	Eldridge Volunteer Fire Department negotiating with City over department's future Fire officials say a growing population has strained the department's resources, and if the City will not increase funding, they should take it over entirely.
	Pups & Pints, Moline, will support Quad City Animal Welfare Center, Milan Pups & Pints will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom in Moline, a news release says. You can bring your pups or just enjoy the company of the pooches. Pups & Pints is a family-friendly event where people can bring their dogs, enjoy food and drinks, browse local [...]
	Colona hears its score on economic development metric Of five pillars of economic development, the city scored highest in public engagement and communications at 3.06.
	Few more warm days for the Quad Cities Comfortable temperatures continue through Friday and then the summer heat builds. A few showers and storms are possible today and maybe a few more later this week. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Everyday People: Bettendorf dog park visit reveals story of family, gratitude and rescue From Florida to Iowa, one college student reflects on adoption, opportunity and belonging.
	IAEA chief says inspectors will visit Iran's nuclear sites under Iran-US interim deal The head of the U.N.'s nuclear agency has signaled that Iranian nuclear enrichment sites would be visited by his inspectors, a day after U.S. and Iran offered contradictory remarks about the issue.
	IAEA chief says inspectors will visit nuclear sites under Iran-U.S. interim deal The head of the U.N.'s nuclear agency has signaled that Iranian nuclear enrichment sites would be visited by his inspectors, a day after the U.S. and Iran offered contradictory remarks about the issue.
	Rock Island-Milan appoints principal, IT director and dean New leadership is coming to Rock Island Center for Math and Science, district technology services and Washington Junior High.
	Simple tips to see your favorite football team on a budget (BPT) - Key takeawaysScoring seats to watch your favorite football team doesn't have to cost a fortune.Budget-friendly tips like choosing the right games, using deal-finding apps, taking advantage of rewards programs and planning for game-day expenses can help you have a great time and save money.You can visit sites or apps like Vivid Seats to find NFL tickets at some of the lowest prices.It's football season, and fans across the country are gearing up to see their favorite teams. If you count yourself among the crowd, it's time to pick the games you want to attend, choose your seats and dig up your fan gear so you can cheer your team on to victory.Whether you are spending the preseason planning ahead, or looking for last-minute deals, think about ways you can save on your day out. Check out these four expert tips that can help you have a great time at the stadium without breaking the bank.The right games for the best valueThe game you choose can make a huge difference in ticket prices.Primetime matchups and playoff tickets, particularly those played on Thursday and Monday nights, often come with a premium price tag for fans. Data suggests that opting for a Sunday game can offer meaningful savings. On average, tickets for Sunday matchups are about 6% cheaper than Monday Night Football games and around 4% cheaper than Thursday Night Football games, making them a more budget-friendly choice for fans looking to cut costs.Also, consider looking beyond marquee matchups, games featuring popular or high-performing teams and players. Instead, buy tickets for games featuring lower-ranked teams, which are often more affordable. No matter the matchup, you're guaranteed to have fun at an NFL game. The game day experience is what it's all about.Buy affordable seats on deal-finding appsNot all ticket sites or apps offer the same ticket prices or customer service experience. Look for affordable tickets to see your favorite NFL teams on apps like Vivid Seats.Bought your tickets and then thought you found better prices somewhere else? Don't worry. If you bought tickets on the Vivid Seats app, you can take advantage of its in-app Lowest Price Guarantee. If you spot the same NFL ticket for less on a qualifying competitor site, Vivid Seats will match the price.Always make sure you are buying from a trusted source. Look for third-party credentials to confirm that the site is legitimate and a member of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB). When you purchase a ticket from a verified and trusted brand like Vivid Seats, you can count on transparent ticket prices thanks to its all-in pricing model, which shows the full ticket price, including all fees, up front. That means the price you see when choosing your seats will be the same price you'll see at checkout, no surprises, so you can choose seats that best match your budget.No matter the matchup, you're guaranteed to have fun at an NFL game. The game day experience is what it's all about.Offset costs with rewardsJust like you would for hotels and flights, don't forget to look into loyalty and rewards programs. If you plan to attend more than one football game throughout the season, choose a site or app that rewards repeat customers.For example, the Vivid Seats Rewards program allows football fans to earn rewards on every purchase, which they can redeem for free tickets, while also getting surprise seat upgrades and other game-day exclusives.How to save on game day beyond the ticket priceTicket prices aren't the only expenses you need to budget for when going out to a football game. Costs like parking and concessions can quickly add up, especially when you're going out as a group or family.A simple way to save on parking can be to purchase or reserve a spot ahead of time to avoid day-of prices. Not only can you save on parking at or around the stadium, but you'll have peace of mind knowing that you won't have to waste time looking for a spot, and you can look at options like tailgates to make the most of your game day visit. You can also research whether the stadium offers a park-and-ride service that will drop you off right in front of the gates. Many of the apps and sites you use to find tickets can also help you find affordable parking options.Stadium concessions can also put a strain on your wallet. The good news is that many stadiums offer discounts and value meals, so you can enjoy a drink or two and a hot dog while staying on budget.Ready to kick off football season on a budget?Cheering on your favorite football team doesn't have to cost a fortune. Using these four tips, you can enjoy watching live football and save some money while you're at it. To learn more about ticket pricing and find games for your favorite football teams, visit VividSeats.com/NFL.Submit claim within 1 hour to get 115% of the price difference as a Vivid Seats credit. Valid only on comparable tickets at eligible marketplaces. Limit $200 Vivid Seats credit per claim; 2 claims per year. Additional restrictions and terms apply. See full terms.
	Prairie Fires This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Remember the Phoenix, that Arabian bird that lived for five hundred years, then consumed itself on a funeral pyre, and…
	Movies and TV shows casting across the US muratart // Shutterstock Movies and TV shows casting across the US The glitz and glam of Hollywood captures the attention of Americans starting from an early age. Beyond celebrities' Instagram Stories and red carpet poses, there are actors out there paying their dues and honing their craft in pursuit of a sustainable career or a fulfilling sideline. Submitting to casting calls is a big part of that journey.Whether you're a working actor or an aspiring one, you might be curious to know which movies and TV shows are casting roles near you. Backstage compiled a list of projects casting right now across the U.S., and which roles they're looking to fill. Tikkyshop // Shutterstock New Dating Show - Project type: reality TV- Roles: --- Singles With A Secret (real people, 21-37)- Casting locations: nationwide- Learn more about the reality TV show here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Trust the Man' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Young 1960s Military Types (lead, male, 25-45)--- Gay Bar Patrons (lead, male, 24-45)--- BLONDE/ LIGHT BROWN HAIR FRIEND TYPE - JERSEY CITY SHOOT 6/22 (lead, male, 25-35)- Roles pay up to: $1,792- Casting locations: Jersey City, NJ; Montclair, NJ- Learn more about the feature film here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Ghost' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Photo Double for Black Male Actor, Shaved Head, 6'2-6'3 (background / extra, male, 23-50)--- Photo Double for White/Latino Male Actor, 6'0-6'2 (background / extra, male, 25-50)- Roles pay up to: $262- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Brooklyn, NY; Queens, NY; White Plains, NY; Yonkers, NY- Learn more about the feature film here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Resurrection: In The Field Of Blood' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- God (lead, male, 18+)--- Jesus (supporting, male, 33-35)--- Judas (lead, male, 30-35)- Roles pay up to: $3,000- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the feature film here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'School Jam' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Vinnie (day player, male, 40-60)--- Pete (day player, male, 40-60)--- Anders (day player, male, 18-21)- Casting locations: New York City, NY- Learn more about the feature film here Dpongvit // Shutterstock HBO's 'The Gilded Age' Season 4 - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- White Male with Dark Hair, Beard & Mustache (background / extra, male, 50-59)- Roles pay up to: $187- Casting locations: New York City, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock 'La Escuela' - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Kelly (lead, female, 18-23)- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the scripted show here KinoMasterskaya // Shutterstock 'Cupertino,' Background Actors - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Nightclub Patrons in College Town (background / extra, 18-40)- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Little Falls, NJ; Cedar Grove, NJ; Paterson, NJ; Totowa, NJ- Learn more about the scripted show here Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock 'The Tarot Oracle' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Astra Wisdom (lead, female, 18-25)--- Jack Bennett (lead, male, 23-30)--- Alan Habsburg (supporting, male, 45-55)- Roles pay up to: $4,800- Casting locations: Baldwin Park, CA; Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the vertical series here Media_Photos // Shutterstock Willys Jeep World Record - Project type: reality TV- Roles: --- Guinness Record Judge Impersonator (supporting, male, 40-90)- Roles pay up to: $200- Casting locations: Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the reality TV show here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Lights Out: Who's Out' Vertical Thriller Series - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Richard (lead, male, 40-50)--- Mia (lead, female, 25-30)--- Liam (lead, male, 25-30)- Roles pay up to: $4,800- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the vertical series here Grusho Anna // Shutterstock 'Out the Kitchen' - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Photo Double for White Male Actor, 6'3"-6'5", Bald (background / extra, male, 40-65)--- Photo Double for White Male Actor, 6'1"-6'3", Dark Hair (background / extra, male, 20-35)--- Hand/Arm Double for White Male Actor, 5'9"-5"11" (background / extra, male, 40-55)- Roles pay up to: $270- Casting locations: New York City, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'The Gilded Age' Season 4, Extras - Project type: scripted show- Roles: --- Speech Attendees (NON SAG-AFTRA covered) (background / extra, female, male, 18-70)- Roles pay up to: $187- Casting locations: New York City, NY; Jersey City, NJ; Brooklyn, NY; Queens, NY- Learn more about the scripted show here Media_Photos // Shutterstock 'My Psycho Vampire' - Project type: vertical series- Roles: --- Emile (supporting, male, 21-35)--- Vanessa (supporting, female, 21-35)--- Sabine (day player, female, 30-50)- Roles pay up to: $3,000- Casting locations: Los Angeles, CA- Learn more about the vertical series here guruXOX // Shutterstock 'The Witch' - Project type: feature film- Roles: --- Mila (The Witch) (lead, female, 21-35)--- Naomi (supporting, female, 25-40)--- Brittany (supporting, female, 20-27)- Roles pay up to: $5,000- Casting locations: Worldwide- Learn more about the feature film here This story was produced by Backstage and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	In the Ebola epicenter, a gold-mining town reacts with fear, disbelief and grit NPR reports from Mongbwalu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The fight to contain the virus faces obstacles from lack of supplies to residents who doubt that the virus is real.
	Why are crisis pregnancy centers saying they can 'rule out' ectopic pregnancy? Under President Trump, more federal attention and support has gone towards anti-abortion Christian centers. A watchdog group says many of them mislead patients with promises to "rule out" ectopic pregnancies.
	4 ways to design a dreamy summer, according to a happiness expert Don't let the season fly by. Gretchen Rubin, host of the Happier podcast, shares exercises to help you get what you want out of summer. Fill out the printable worksheet and stick it on your fridge.
	5 years after the Surfside condo collapse, the toll of the tragedy remains Surfside, Florida, is marking five years since a beachfront condominium collapsed, killing 98 people. It was one of the largest structural failures in U.S. history.
	Experts weigh in on Screwworm dangers for Iowa livestock With Screwworm cases rising in the south, concerns have arisen on Capitol Hill as international trading partners question the import of American beef.
	Appeals court allows Trump administration expanded use of speedy deportations A federal appeals court on Tuesday allowed the Trump administration to resume carrying out speedy deportations of undocumented migrants throughout the United States, not just near the border.
	Archaeologists find huge Viking textile production site in Denmark Archaeologists have discovered a huge Viking Age textile production site in Denmark that dates back more than 1,000 years and underlines the sophistication of Viking society.
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026
	Illinois Keaton Walger, Iowa’s Bennett Stirtz, Iowa State’s Joshua Jefferson taken in first round of NBA Draft Three college basketball players with regional ties were selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, including players from Illinois, Iowa and Iowa State. Keaton Wagler, Bennett Stirtz and Joshua Jefferson heard their names called in the first round.
	Iowa, your Caitlin Clark vote counts in WNBA All-Star race DES MOINES, Iowa — This is one assist Iowa fans can make from the couch. Caitlin Clark is in the running for the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, and the fans have a real say in whether the local superstar gets the starting spot. Clark, the former Dowling Catholic and Iowa Hawkeyes star, is already among [...]
	Davenport Parks and Rec holding summer camp The camp will meet four days a week at the Roosevelt Community Centers.
	Eldridge Volunteer Fire Department negotiating with City over department future Fire officials say a growing population has strained the department's resources, and if the City will not increase funding, they should take it over entirely.
	Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre to hold summer puppet day camp Campers age seven to 12 will build their own puppets in several styles and learn to work with them.
	DNA Doe Projects describes how it identified 'Jane Clinton Doe,' 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards More than 50 years after a Jane Doe was found in Clinton County, the DNA Doe Project used forensic genetic genealogy to identify her as Cheryl Lynn Edwards.
	Sides clash in court over legality of abortion-pill advertising in South Dakota The Andrew Bogue Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Rapid City, South Dakota, where a judge conducted a hearing Tuesday in a lawsuit against a new state anti-abortion law. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)RAPID CITY — A nonprofit organization argued Tuesday that the information it provides about abortion pills is protected as free speech even in a state that bans abortion, while the state of South Dakota equated the nonprofit’s messaging with soliciting and facilitating illegal activity. The opposing sides presented their arguments during a court hearing on the eve of the four-year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling that overturned nationwide abortion rights. The hearing was about New York-based Mayday Health’s request for an order blocking a new South Dakota law from taking effect. The judge will issue a ruling later. New anti-abortion laws clarify definition, criminalize pills, require prenatal videos in schools The new law prohibits the dispensing, distribution and advertising of abortion pills and other abortion-related items, and makes violations punishable by felony prosecutions and fines. Another South Dakota law that took effect four years ago bans abortion in all cases except when necessary to save the mother’s life. South Dakota’s Republican governor signed the new law in March after the Republican-controlled Legislature passed it. The law is scheduled to take effect on July 1. Jim Leach, the Rapid City-based lawyer representing Mayday, said the law unconstitutionally targets free speech about abortion that state officials don’t like. “The state absolutely hates our speech,” he said in his opening statement. A team of state lawyers at the hearing included Attorney General Marty Jackley, who is also the Republican nominee to run for U.S. House in the Nov. 3 general election. Jackley said the type of speech Mayday practices on its website is not protected by the U.S. constitution. “What the First Amendment doesn’t do is protect an illegal drug transaction in South Dakota,” he said. Plaintiff’s case The clash between Mayday Health and the state predates Mayday’s lawsuit. It began in December when Mayday posted advertising placards on gas-station pumps in South Dakota. The placards included the address of Mayday’s website, which provides information about abortion pills and links to providers who send abortion pills in the mail. Jackley sent Mayday a cease-and-desist letter, accusing Mayday of falsely advertising abortion as legal in South Dakota and making misleading statements about the safety of abortion pills. Dueling lawsuits arose and were settled in early March when Mayday agreed to remove the placards. State board approves options for prenatal videos in schools, including one from anti-abortion group By that time, the Legislature was on its way to approving the new law. Mayday and a South Dakota woman, Nancy Turbak Berry, filed their lawsuit against that law last month in federal court. Turbak Berry is a lawyer, a Democratic former legislator and an abortion-rights proponent from Watertown. The lawsuit’s argument about free speech is partially built upon her purchase of a sweatshirt from Mayday’s website. Text printed on the sweatshirt says, “They don’t want you to know this: You can still get abortion pills in all 50 states” and “learn more at mayday.health.” Turbak Berry alleges the state could use the new law to label the shirt as abortion-pill advertising and prosecute her for wearing it. She alleged that would violate her free-speech rights. As Leach’s first witness Tuesday, Turbak Berry explained why she got involved in the lawsuit. “I was disgusted that the state was trying to keep information from South Dakota women about the fact that abortion pills are available,” Turbak Berry said. Leach’s next witness was Leo Raisner, who lives in Brooklyn, New York, and works as executive director of Mayday Health. He testified that he co-founded Mayday Health in 2022 after seeing survey data indicating that many people in the United States are unaware that abortion pills are available. Raisner testified that Mayday provides information for people to use for themselves, and does not promote abortion or encourage anyone to have an abortion. “What I really, really want women to have is reliable, trustworthy information about abortion pills,” Raisner said on the witness stand. Mayday Health Executive Director Leo Raisner, left, and attorney for Mayday, Jim Leach, talk on June 23, 2026, outside the federal courthouse in Rapid City, South Dakota. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight) State’s witnesses In the state’s questioning of Turbak Berry, Raisner and the state’s own witnesses, the state’s lawyers attempted to show that Mayday’s website goes beyond the mere dissemination of information. The state’s first witness was Kayla Klemann, an investigator for the Office of the Attorney General’s Division of Consumer Protection. She testified that the Mayday website provided her with links to abortion pill providers after she input her age as 14, that the site never asked her where she lived or whether abortion was legal in her state, and that after she input 23 weeks and four days as the duration of her pregnancy, the site told her that pills were not her best abortion option but allowed her to go back and change her response. Klemann testified that her interactions were with a chatbot on the Mayday website. Raisner testified that the chatbot was removed from the website on Sunday. That removal was a frequent point of contention during the hearing, with Leach contending the judge should only consider current conditions when deciding whether to issue a court order against the new law, and Jackley and the state arguing that the chatbot’s past existence remains relevant to the case. Klemann additionally testified that she found information from Mayday advising people to use mail-forwarding services to receive abortion pills — which Jackley described as part of a “scheme” to help people obtain illegal drugs. Raisner testified that the mail-forwarding information was removed from Mayday’s site several years ago. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley talks to reporters on June 23, 2026, outside the federal courthouse in Rapid City. (Photo by Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight) The testimony concluded with dueling South Dakota OB-GYN doctors, both of whom are retired. Patti Giebink, who acknowledged she considers herself “pro-life,” testified for the state that prescribing abortion pills — mifepristone and misoprostol — online without an in-person consultation is potentially dangerous, especially for patients who are alone and have conditions that might make them susceptible to complications. The state’s attorneys attempted to show that Mayday misleads people about those potential safety risks. Marvin Buehner, who acknowledged that he has won awards for his “pro-choice” advocacy, testified for Mayday and Turbak Berry that complications from abortion pills occur in “astoundingly small numbers” and that abortion pills are safe and effective. In closing arguments, Leach said Mayday provides information vetted as accurate by experts and does not sell abortion pills. He said the state failed to prove that Mayday committed a crime, or engaged in commercial activity involving abortion pills, or provided misleading information. Jackley said Mayday chooses the content and links on its website, that it describes abortion pill providers as trusted partners, and that it instructs users how to obtain abortion pills that are illegal in South Dakota. Jackley characterized Mayday’s actions as conspiring, soliciting, and aiding and abetting the distribution of illegal drugs. Mayday and Turbak Berry are initially seeking a temporary injunction that would prevent the state from enforcing the new law while the lawsuit proceeds. Judge Camela Theeler gave the parties until June 30 to file additional briefs, and until July 3 for responses to the briefs. Although the new law takes effect July 1, Jackley told the judge he does not intend to initiate any enforcement actions against Mayday during the time between the hearing and the judge’s ruling. EDITOR’S NOTE: South Dakota Searchlight has engaged attorney Jim Leach, who represents the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, in a past unrelated legal matter. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of South Dakota Searchlight
	All six weekly classes will compete at Davenport Speedway When racing returns to the Davenport Speedway this Friday, weekly points racing will be center stage. All six weekly classes will be in action, on June 26, a news release says. Davenport Speedway has reached the midway point of the 2026 season. The battles for the track championships are beginning to take shape. While some [...]
	Mamdani's political gamble pays off as his endorsed candidates sweep their primaries All three progressive candidates backed by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani — including two who took on Democratic incumbents — won their primaries in safe seats almost guaranteeing their election in November.
	Cook review: 'Beast' packs solid punch in story about MMA fighters "Beast" made a quiet entrance and an even more silent exit in theaters a few months back. Maybe this solid film will earn an audience on streaming platforms. I hope so - it deserves to be seen. Russell Crowe, who is among the ensemble in a small but pivotal role, also co-wrote the screenplay with [...]
	Moline American Legion Post #246 swears in new leadership Moline American Legion Post #246 swore in new leadership. The move is part of the legion's celebration of 250 years of America. To join the American Legion, click here. Those interested can also send a message via Moline American Legion Post #246's Facebook page or contact Jack Achs at 563-650-3641 or email here.
	Bettendorf police remind community of fireworks ordinance ahead of 4th of July Consumer fireworks can only be used July 3 and July 4.
	Muscabus will take center stage at Muscatine City Council meeting MuscaBus will take center stage during Tuesday’s Muscatine Council meeting as the council recognizes the 2026 MuscaBus Driver of the Year and the mayor will proclaim June 26 as MuscaBus Appreciation Day. The council will convene at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the City Council Chambers, on the second floor of Muscatine City Hall. Veteran driver [...]
	Davenport Speedway extends fan vote for 2026 Hall of Fame inductees The Davenport Speedway Hall of Fame Selection Committee has decided to extend the fan vote for the 2026 class of inductees to the Hall of Fame, a news release says. The fan vote was scheduled to end June 17 at the Iowa Governor’s Cup, which was rained out. The new deadline for the fan vote is [...]
	‘Trump’s farmer’ wins nomination for SC agriculture commissioner Cody Simpson with his 1-year-old golden retriever, Manning, outside his family's general store in the unincorporated Home Branch community in Clarendon County. (Photo courtesy of the Simpson campaign)COLUMBIA — The candidate who calls himself “President Trump’s farmer in South Carolina” easily won the GOP nomination to become the state’s next agriculture commissioner. As of 9:45 p.m., Cody Simpson was leading with a lopsided 63% of votes cast over Danny Ford II, the son of the legendary football coach of Clemson’s 1981 national championship. Ford, whose crops include hemp, touted his first-hand understanding of the plant. But he said it was a crisis at his family’s Upstate cattle farm last year that fueled his bid. Before he even entered the race, Simpson had the endorsement of both Gov. Henry McMaster and President Donald Trump. His campaign quickly broke fundraising records. Simpson specifically thanked the president and the governor for their support in a statement on social media following his win. “South Carolina just planted the seeds for a stronger future,” Simpson added. “We must — and together, we will — protect our farms, ensure our food security, strengthen our rural communities, and preserve our agricultural heritage. Our momentum is strong, and we’re just getting started.” The fifth-generation farmer joined McMaster’s office in 2018 as an agriculture adviser and left as chief executive assistant in spring 2025. That’s when the Trump administration appointed him as the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency’s executive director for South Carolina — a long title he shortened to Trump’s farmer. Less than 1 percentage point separated Simpson and Ford in the four-way primary June 9. In an interview with the S.C. Daily Gazette, Ford thanked the people of South Carolina for giving him the opportunity. “To have never participated in politics before and in three months to do what I did speaks volumes,” the political newcomer said. “For me, it was not about the seat. It was about getting out for the farmers,” Ford added. “They’re really in trouble.” As for Simpson, Ford said he hopes he does a good job, “because our farmers need it.” Simpson’s win means November will feature two natives of Clarendon County. Simpson’s family farm is in the unincorporated Home Branch community, where he says he was working at the family general store by age 10. Democrat DeShawn Blanding, of Manning, is a former policy analyst for the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. Today he works with farm organizations and policymakers on issues tied to food access and rural economic development. They are competing to replace Commissioner Hugh Weathers, who’s retiring after 22 years leading the state Department of Agriculture. He was first appointed to head the agency of about 250 full-time employees in 2024. Farmers in the fast-growing Palmetto State are feeling more pressure from developers seeking to turn farmland into subdivisions. The state has lost nearly 290,000 acres of farmland since 2001, according to the state Farm Bureau. The agency’s duties include promoting the state’s $51 billion agriculture industry and various agribusiness sectors, keeping the food supply safe, inspecting gas pumps, and — since 2024 — handling all inspections of the state’s 24,000 food vendors, including restaurants and cafeterias. Courtesy of South Carolina Daily Gazette
	LeClaire to hold splash pad ribbon cutting ceremony Kids in LeClaire will have a new spot to cool off this summer.
	Morris-based mega-dairy coming closer to reality with key regulatory ruling Riverview Dairy is seeking to expand their Morris-based West River Dairy operation from 7,855 cows to almost 19,000 cows. (Drone photo by Rob Levine/Minnesota Reformer)A proposal to expand a Morris-based dairy operation from roughly 8,000 cows to nearly 19,000 moved closer to construction this week with a key regulatory ruling. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency decided this week that Riverview Dairy does not need to complete an environmental review known as an Environmental Impact Statement to move forward with the expansion. The decision was met with outcry from farmers, environmentalists and some Morris locals who worry a dairy of this size could put smaller dairy farms out of business and potentially pollute the nearby Pomme de Terre watershed. “Consolidation is reshaping our dairy sector, and the trend has implications for land access, local economies and the next generation of farmers,” said Minnesota Farmers Union’s Vice President Anne Schwagerl, in a press release. “Requiring an (Environmental Impact Statement) is a measured, reasonable step. It ensures that when we make decisions, we do so with eyes wide open.” The MPCA, which is the regulatory agency for Minnesota dairies, received nearly 1,400 public comments on Riverview Dairy’s feedlot permit and Environmental Assessment Worksheet, a requirement for all feedlot permits that assesses a proposal’s potential for significant environmental impact. (Considered less rigorous than an a Environmental Impact Statement.) The agency also held a public meeting in Morris in late April that was attended by an estimated 450 people. Big dairy outside Morris wants to grow bigger After reviewing public comments, the MPCA announced on June 22 that the proposal did not have adverse-enough environmental impacts to require an EIS. The agency said concerns about pollution in Morris and the Pomme de Terre watershed would be “mitigated through the water appropriation and feedlot permits the company is required to comply with,” according to an MPCA press release. Conservation groups disagreed with MPCA’s decision. “An EIS is exactly the tool needed to answer the serious questions people have raised about water use, manure management, groundwater protection, public health, and the future of family-scale dairy farming in western Minnesota,” said Sean Carroll, policy director of the Land Stewardship Project — a vocal opponent of the expansion — in a press release. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. The operation would be the largest dairy in Minnesota if constructed. The project would add a new barn and three new liquid manure storage areas to the existing facility in Morris. Brady Janzen, a partner of Riverview LLP, said the expansion represents a “long-term investment in the Morris area that will support local jobs, local businesses, and Minnesota’s agricultural economy.” The company was issued its feedlot permit on June 23 and is waiting for a water appropriation permit and local zoning permits. The project is estimated to take 16 to 24 months to complete. Courtesy of Minnesota Reformer
	Moline to celebrate completion of Riverside Legacy project with ribbon cutting for new mini-pitch The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on July 10.
	Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley names new president and CEO Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley has announced a new president and CEO. According to a Facebook post from Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley, Daniel Gleason has been named as the president and CEO of the organization. Daniel brings a wealth of experience in community leadership, nonprofit management, fundraising, partnership [...]
	DNA Doe Project reveals how Cheryl Lynn Edwards was identified more than 50 years later A team of 16 genealogists from three countries helped identify Cheryl Edwards. Here's how they traced her family history.
	Muscatine police start patrols around evacuated buildings Overall, 36 apartments and 18 businesses are still under evacuation orders.
	Iowa blocked from restricting sugary foods and drinks under SNAP A federal judge said Iowa cannot block SNAP recipients from buying sugary foods and drinks with their benefits.
	Two new locations make pitch to become home of the Chicago Bears Two new locations have been proposed for a new Bears stadium, one in Chicago's Southeast Side and one in McCook, with the latter offering the Bears the land for free, a $2 billion stadium with their own money, and a $1 per year lease to the village.
	DNA Doe Projects discusses how it identified 'Jane Clinton Doe,' 15-year-old Cheryl Lynn Edwards More than 50 years after a Jane Doe was found in Clinton County, the DNA Doe Project used forensic genetic genealogy to identify her as Cheryl Lynn Edwards.
	Oregon AG Rayfield highlights new Medicaid fraud charges amid national fraud crackdown Attorney General Dan Rayfield listens to a Salem City Club member after his speech at the Willamette Heritage Center in Salem on Sept. 12, 2025. (Photo by Laura Tesler/Oregon Capital Chronicle)SALEM — Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield announced new criminal charges Tuesday against four people the state alleges stole taxpayer money and victimized vulnerable Oregonians by filing fraudulent Medicaid reimbursement claims. Rayfield’s announcement coincided with the federal government pressing Medicaid fraud charges against more than 450 people. In Oregon, each of the new cases involved providers investigated by the state’s 22-person Medicaid Fraud Unit of investigators, auditors, attorneys and data analysts. “At its core, combating Medicaid fraud is about fighting for working families, protecting vulnerable Oregonians and holding bad actors accountable when they take advantage of taxpayer dollars,” Rayfield said at a press conference. None of the defendants in the recently filed cases Rayfield highlighted Tuesday have yet listed defense attorneys on the state’s court information system, and none responded to calls to publicly listed phone numbers Tuesday afternoon. Edward Morgan III of Beaverton faces two counts of first degree theft, two counts of forgery, two counts of identity theft and one count of computer crimes tied to fraudulently receiving housing assistance for two individuals through the state’s health-related social needs funds, according to Rayfield and charging documents. Linda Thomas of Corvallis and the company she owns, Gateway of Willamette Valley, each face charges for theft and making false claims for health care payments related to billing Medicaid for day support program services that were not provided to Medicaid recipients, according to Rayfield and charging documents. Amanda Thorne of Portland, a former Lane County employee, faces charges for allegedly making personal purchases that included paying rent and a car down payment with a government-issued credit card intended to be used for purchases for clients of Lane County’s developmental disabilities services, according to Rayfield and charging documents. Tedros Gebrezgabhere, who owns a medical transportation company in Portland, faces multiple charges of theft and making false claims for health care payments for billing for non-emergent medical transportation that he never provided, according to Rayfield and charging documents. “In addition to holding bad actors accountable, we want to speak publicly about this work and these cases to hopefully deter people who might be considering taking advantage of our Medicaid system,” Rayfield said. Approximately 1.4 million Oregonians — roughly one in three people and more than half of all children in the state — receive health care through Medicaid, known here as the Oregon Health Plan. Staff from Rayfield’s office were among the only employees of Democratic state attorneys general offices to attend a late May meeting on anti-fraud measures Vice President JD Vance led. Rayfield said while he objected to the late notice — his office received an invitation the Friday before Memorial Day for a meeting across the country the following Tuesday — he felt it was an important issue. “This is incredibly bipartisan work that is being done by attorney general offices across the state and their fraud units at the state level,” he said. “Currently, there are hundreds fewer people working on fraud investigations at the federal level now than there were when the Trump administration took over, and that’s why this work is so important right now at the state level. This is just another area where the states have had to step up when the federal government has stepped away from protecting consumers and taxpayers.” The Medicaid Fraud Unit has secured 348 criminal convictions, 156 civil settlements and judgments, $14.9 million in criminal recoveries and $131.7 million in civil recoveries since 2010, Rayfield said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of Oregon Capital Chronicle
	Finding Jane Doe: How genealogists identified Cheryl Lynn Edwards Law enforcement and genetic genealogists identified an unidentified body from 1975.
	Where legislatures lag, local officials are stopping data centers altogether The rapid expansion of hyperscale data centers is far outstripping efforts to regulate them in Missouri and other states. As a result, communities are responding with hastily called moratoriums and divisive local elections to address the massive industrial facilities popping up across America.
	New mural with nod to Burlington's history brightens corner A new mural brightens the corner of Central Avenue and Columbia Street, adding another piece to Burlington's growing collection of public art while celebrating the community's rich history and sense of place. Commissioned by local business owner Ross Haeger and painted by Burlington artist Craig Jacoba, the mural depicts a Burlington riverfront scene featuring a [...]
	Illinois, public school libraries receive over $27M in grants The money will help pay for books, technology, literacy programs, building improvements and security upgrades.
	Chateau Estate residents return after explosion Residents of the Chateau Estates neighborhood in Dixon, Illinois are returning home after an explosion that severely injured one person.
	Lawmakers want research on social media’s effect on young people Lawmakers advanced bills Tuesday to set up a social media research center and examine social media’s effect on youth. (Photo by Anne-Marie Caruso/New Jersey Monitor)A legislative panel approved two bills Tuesday that would create a social media research center in New Jersey and call for it to work with state health officials to study and possibly recommend warning labels to help kids avoid addictive online behavior. The bills passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee with Democratic support alone; the four Republican members all abstained or voted no, with several citing concerns the legislation would violate free speech, an issue also flagged by trade groups critical of the measures. Amy Bos, the vice president of government affairs with NetChoice, a tech lobbying firm, said requiring companies to post warnings would violate constitutional protections. “No matter how well intentioned this bill may be, forcing a private platform to display a government message puts it on the wrong side of the First Amendment,” she said. No supporters testified Tuesday. The bills, both championed by Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (D-Burlington), cite growing research connecting obsessive use of social media platforms with anxiety, depression, body image issues, and other mental health concerns among youth. The issue is also a chief concern of Gov. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat who has prioritized child mental health and online safety in her first budget proposal and praised related bills sponsored by Katz. One of the bills approved Tuesday calls for state officials to select a four-year public college to host the research center, which would study the negative impacts of social media and make recommendations to lawmakers, the governor, and other stakeholders. The second measure calls for the research center to collaborate with the state Department of Health’s office of online youth mental health to examine the impact of addictive social media on children’s health, the impact of repetitive warning labels to steer kids away from addictive online behavior, and make recommendations on what should be done in New Jersey. The state would then need to implement the recommendations under the bill. Senate versions of the two proposals, sponsored by Sens. Raj Mukherji (D-Hudson) and Linda Greenstein (D-Mercer), have both passed one panel and now face votes in the Senate Budget Committee. The bills cite a 2025 report from a commission established under former Gov. Phil Murphy that studied the impact of social media on youth. The panel recommended banning phones from schools — a change Murphy signed into law in January — and called for parents to delay children’s access to social media. The commission also said social media companies need to better police bullying and restrict under-age use. “This report is a roadmap for action. Social media has rewired childhood, and the stakes could not be higher,” commission co-chairs Pearl Gabel and Charles Gelinas said in September, when the report was released. “New Jersey has the opportunity to lead the nation and prove that when it comes to our children, safety and well-being come first.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. Courtesy of New Jersey Monitor
	Vander Veer Park fountain will be inoperable this year Staff have tried to fix a persistent issue with the fountain, but city officials said a full replacement is needed.
	Rally attendees criticize Gov. Shapiro for being ‘incredibly cozy’ with data center industry Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro was heavily criticized for his perceived coziness with data centers across the commonwealth on June 23, 2026. (Natalie Javitt/Pennsylvania Capital-Star)Over the course of an hourlong rally calling for a data center moratorium in Pennsylvania, no single individual’s name came up more than Gov. Josh Shapiro — who was repeatedly criticized for welcoming a $20 billion Amazon investment last year. Colby Wesner, part of the Concerned Citizens of Montour County who opposed a local data center rezoning effort related to Amazon, filed numerous Right-to-Know requests seeking details about the proposal. Those records, he said, revealed “how incredibly cozy our governor and his administration are with Amazon and the data center industry.” “The only thing I haven’t been able to find yet is where and when he sat down with big tech to make friendship bracelets,” said Wesner. Amazon announces $20 billion AI investment that will bring at least 1,250 jobs to Pa. The event is only the most recent grassroots backlash to data centers, which are springing up across the commonwealth — and country — at a breakneck pace, prompting several to call for a development pause. The resource-hungry facilities are necessary to process the influx of digital information, powering new technologies like artificial intelligence. It’s not clear how much Amazon will get in return for its Pennsylvania investment, but, like other data center developments, it could receive a sales tax exemption diverting millions from the state’s coffers. Speaker after speaker decried deals that they said occurred without public notice behind closed doors, only to be revealed by a well-placed public records request. But powerful politicians, including Shapiro alongside Republicans U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick and President Donald Trump, have all touted their support for various efforts related to AI and data centers. Many signs at the rally targeted Gov. Josh Shapiro specifically, calling on him to limit data center growth in the commonwealth. (Photo by Emily Scolnick/Pennsylvania Capital-Star) Megan McDonough, the state director at Food & Water Watch, compared the data center “playbook” to fracking companies, who tried to come into communities like hers over a decade ago. “Now they want us to hand data centers powered by fracked gas and call it the future. Nope. That’s not the future we’re fighting for,” continued McDonough. “We show up. We get louder. We get stronger and we do not stop until every sellout in this building understands that Pennsylvania belongs to the people, not big tech.” The power-hungry demands of data centers are being used to kickstart future fracking efforts, she continued, while pointing to studies linking increased cancer rates to fracking proximity in southwestern Pennsylvania. “It’s the same thing that we do over and over again,” McDonough told the Capital-Star. “The AI data centers that they want to build in Pennsylvania, they want gas-fired power plants to power them. That inevitably means that we’re all on the chopping block for fracking again … and we’ve had enough. We’ve already suffered enough.” At the Capitol Perhaps one of the most vocal data center critics in the legislature is Sen Katie Muth (D-Montgomery), whose Senate Bill 1359 would prohibit developments statewide for the next three years. Muth was unsparing in her assessment of data centers and Shapiro’s plan for “responsible” development, saying she would “love to see a data center that’s built responsibly.” But, she added, she has yet to see “anything that protects the public from the health harms of these massive, industrial projects.” SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE “The lesson of Pennsylvania’s industrial history is clear,” said Muth, noting that Pennsylvania leads the nation in its number of polluted superfund sites. “When government fails to ask hard questions at the beginning, communities pay the price for generations.” “We cannot afford to repeat those mistakes. Not with our water, not with our air, not with our families and our communities, and not with our future,” continued Muth. “Because Pennsylvania is not for sale.” She tied ever-increasing electric bills with the projects, saying average users “subsidize the transmission and distribution costs for infrastructure buildout.” Sen. Katie Muth (D-Montgomery) pushes for a three-year moratorium on data centers on June 23, 2026. (Photo by Whitney Downard/Pennsylvania Capital-Star) “If you think we’re going to sit by and live next to massive high-voltage power lines, massive hyperscale data centers and then also pay the bill for it, you’re out of your mind,” said Muth. In response to concerns about electrical and water usage, Shapiro pitched voluntary standards, known as GRID, which tie tax breaks to sustainability measures and incentivizes companies who supply their own power. Wesner dismissed these rules as a “PR stunt to attempt to show concern,” drafted in coordination with Amazon and other data center interest groups. “But behind the scenes, you’re making sure your friendship bracelets stay firmly in place,” continued Wesner. “That’s not leadership, that’s duplicity.” Ramifications for the November election? Again and again, speakers warned of consequences for Shapiro if the governor didn’t take action to limit data centers. He’s running for reelection in the fall. Sam Burleigh, also of Montour County, pointed to a primary write-in effort for Muth, with some voters casting ballots for the state senator to protest Shapiro. He said opposition to data center projects would be “a major topic” up and down the ballot. “There’s Republicans and Democrats standing side-by-side on this, and whoever wants to stand with the people and stop these things — or at least slow them down so that people can get ahead of them — they’re going to be the ones that are in the limelight,” said Burleigh. “I voted for Shapiro, and he’s done some good, but this is one issue (where) the party is not going to matter.” Construction continues for a data center being built at the former Homer City Generating Station in Center Township, Indiana County May 14, 2026. Previously, the largest coal-burning power plant in Pennsylvania, the plant is being transformed into a natural gas-powered data center campus. (Photo by John Beale for the Pennsylvania Capital-Star) Alluding to Shapiro’s rumored presidential aspirations, Burleigh said that even if Shapiro was reelected as governor, support for data centers would sink that campaign. Shapiro’s Republican gubernatorial opponent, State Treasurer Stacy Garrity, attacked Shapiro over the Amazon deal in May, calling it a “sweetheart tax deal” for former company CEO Jeff Bezos. “Pennsylvania should pause data center development to give local communities the opportunity to update zoning laws and the Office of the Attorney General should initiate an investigation into the sweetheart tax deal Jeff Bezos and others received from the Shapiro Administration,” said Garrity. “We need a Governor who will partner with local communities to find solutions that best meet their needs, not sacrifice the people they represent for the sake of their personal political aspirations.” Some legislative proposals would allow municipalities to enact their own bans and eliminate the sales tax exemption used by Amazon and others. Last week, two state House committees advanced transparency requirements alongside a bill allowing municipalities to “pause” developments while they consider zoning requirements. But at the time of the Amazon announcement, when she was already considered a frontrunner to challenge Shapiro for his seat in 2026, she called the investment “great news” on the social media platform X. She previously pitched rural Pennsylvania as communities that could “welcome” data centers. In a statement, Shapiro spokesperson Rosie Lapowsky said the administration was working with the General Assembly to codify GRID standards into law, but pinned inaction on Senate Republicans. “(The Shapiro Administration) is working closely with the House Democrats on an appropriate package of data center legislation that will protect Pennsylvanians and establish strict guardrails to hold data center developers accountable,” said Lapowsky. “Unfortunately, Senate Republican leadership has said they will not take action to rein in these developments — we urge advocates and others to engage them on the need for legislation to protect our communities.” Lapowsky added that Shapiro proposed the voluntary GRID guidance because he believes the state “should establish strong, enforceable standards,” saying he “has heard directly from Pennsylvanians who are concerned about what data center development could mean for their communities.” Shapiro didn’t respond directly to a question about whether he was reviewing the Amazon project, or if the administration would consider a statewide data center moratorium. Courtesy of Pennsylvania Capital-Star
	Supreme Court rules that prison guards can't be sued for shaving Rastafarian's head The Supreme Court ruled that a Louisiana prisoner whose dreadlocks were forcibly shaved off by prison guards cannot sue the guards under a federal law to protect the religious rights of prisoners.
	Police begin patrols to ensure no one enters evacuated Muscatine buildings The City of Muscatine asks residents in the 200 block of East 2nd Street to comply with the mandatory evacuation put in place last week as a precautionary measure, according to a news release. Starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, the Muscatine Police Department is patrolling the area to ensure no one enters the [...]
	Latest sunset of the year coming this Saturday Enjoying these late sunsets? Or early sunrises? Well, the latest sunset of the year is THIS Saturday! The sunset times do not change much near the solstices, so we're only gaining a few seconds in the evening right now. It all peaks this Saturday when the sun sets around 8:41:44. Then, we slowly start losing [...]
	Medical experts urge safety around fireworks as Fourth of July nears Hospital emergency rooms typically see an uptick in visits from fireworks-related injuries around the holiday.
	Local photographer opens gallery highlighting local female athletes Holly Willwerth is on a mission to highlight and celebrate local female athlete from elementary through high school.
	Rock Fall hit and run driver, vehicle identified The driver and vehicle that struck a bicyclist in rural Rock Falls have been found and identified.
	State police sergeant remembered 25 years after Centennial Bridge death The Centennial Bridge reflects that day, now named for fallen Master Sgt. Stanley Talbot.
	Bill to increase supply of homes and lower prices advances The Senate passed a bill designed to increase the supply of homes and lower their prices. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644) would ban corporate investors from buying single-family homes. The move also provides money to turn abandoned infrastructure into housing and offers a framework for communities that want to reform outdated [...]
	Moline-based Elliott Aviation celebrates 90th anniversary Elliott Aviation is one of the country's oldest fixed-base operators.
	Healthcare providers, law enforcement provide 4th of July safety tips for fireworks Doctors urge anyone using fireworks to always have water on hand to put out any fires and to douse used shells.
	Dedication ceremony to be held for mural honoring Black Davenport’s history The Friends of MLK, Quad City Arts and the Downtown Davenport Partnership will host a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for the new mural, according to a media release.
	Free garden breakfast series invites you to tour QC GIFT Gardens, fight local hunger This summer you can enjoy free breakfast while touring QC GIFT gardens and learning how they're stocking our food pantries with fresh produce. Here's how to attend.
	Go Over the Edge to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley You can take the rappel of a lifetime and help Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley! Kylie Wise joined Our Quad Cities News with details on Over the Edge. For more information, click here.
	Learn about historical garments and textiles with the Putnam Museum's Collection Couture Club You can get exclusive glimpses into the world of collecting historical garments and textiles, how collections are built and what it takes to preserve them with the Putnam Museum. Michele Darland joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Collection Couture Club. For more information, click here.
	Elliott Aviation celebrates 90 years in the QCA An aviation services company in the QCA is marking a big milestone. Elliott Aviation is celebrating 90 years in Moline. The company started off on a small grass airstrip in DeWitt in 1936 and has expanded its service from the Quad Cities metro and Des Moines to Minneapolis and Atlanta. CEO Michael Parrish says they've [...]
	Nearly $3 million available for flood mitigation in Davenport City officials have until July 22 to apply for the funds.
	Pharmacy seeks millions from Iowa Medicaid, citing unsupported fraud allegations (Photo by Getty Images)The owners of a Fort Madison pharmacy are suing the state over an alleged failure to pay for millions of dollars’ worth of pharmaceuticals. Rashid Pharmacy is seeking judicial review of a May 22, 2026 order by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees Iowa Medicaid Enterprises. The company claims it operated in Fort Madison from 1963 to March 2022, when it closed. In June 2021, Iowa Medicaid Enterprise suspended all Medicaid payments to Rashid Pharmacy, claiming a “credible allegation of fraud” existed, although, the lawsuit claims, the Medicaid programs in Illinois and Missouri took no such action. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX. The lawsuit alleges that in March 2022, the federal government executed a search warrant at the pharmacy, seeking information related to alleged inventory discrepancies tied to Medicare — not Medicaid — payments for drugs. The lawsuit claims that after the search, the federal government acknowledged it had misinterpreted data, giving rise to a suspicion of inventory discrepancies. The data, the lawsuit alleges, had counted shortfalls for drugs that were packaged in a certain way, but failed to take into account overages for the same drugs purchased in different packaging. The result was that the pharmacy falsely appeared to have billed Medicaid for dispensing far more drugs than it had on hand, the lawsuit claims. Rashid Pharmacy appealed its Iowa Medicaid payment suspension, noting that Medicare, the Department of Justice and Iowa Medicaid Enterprises had been unable to find “a single patient report” of fraud. According to the lawsuit, Iowa Administrative Law Judge Jonathan M. Gallagher issued a proposed order in favor of DHHS in October 2021, expressing concern that “there is precious little to indicate Medicaid fraud,” while adding that “there is no definitive proof of no fraud.” In his proposed order, Gallagher stated that “on balance, DHHS’ position on whether a credible allegation of fraud exists has more force than Rashid’s counterargument.” Gallagher noted that DHHS was not required to show proof of fraud in order to suspend payments, pointing out that it was “enough to say there is no proverbial smoking gun to show no fraud.” “It has now been more than 62 months since the search warrant and about 60 months since the inception of the payment suspension,” the lawsuit asserts. “Rashid Pharmacy ceased operation on March 26, 2022. Despite the federal government’s investigation, no criminal charge or civil claim has been brought against Rashid Pharmacy in relation to alleged Medicaid fraud. Nor have there been any allegations, charges, indictment, information, or civil suits as to any claimed Medicare or Medicaid fraud or shortage.” During those five years, the lawsuit adds, Iowa Medicaid Enterprises has withheld approximately $2 million to $3 million in payments for services rendered and products lawfully dispensed to Medicaid beneficiaries. Rashid Pharmacy now seeks judicial review of DHHS’ May 2026 decision to deny payment of the money the pharmacy claims it is owed, arguing the decision is either unsupported by evidence or is wholly irrational. The State of Iowa, which does not comment on pending litigation, has yet to file a response to the lawsuit. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Iowa Capital Dispatch
	Carrie Underwood, July 4 A country-music superstar whose long list of accomplishments includes eight chart-topping albums, more than two dozen chart-topping singles, and recognition as the most awarded country artist of all time – all since her American Idol debut in 2005 – Carrie Underwood is the fourth of July's special guest in the John Deere Classic's "Concerts on the Course" series, Rolling Stone hailing her as "the female vocalist of her generation in any genre."
	Old Dominion, July 5 With AllMusic hailing the group's most recent album Barbara for "songs that are as vulnerable and deeply introspective as they are radio-friendly," the chart-topping musicians of Old Dominion perform the closing July 5 event in the John Deere Classic's "Concerts on the Course" series, the popular touring ensemble's credits including four Academy of Country Music Awards and nine top-10 Billboard singles over the past decade.
	Pints and Paws blood drive returning to the Quad Cities in July For every donor who gives blood at one of the drives, the Red Cross will donate $10 to animal shelters in the Quad Cities.

Wednesday, June 24th, 2026

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026