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

Monday, September 14th, 2026
	USDA seeking information from farmers about fertilizer ‘cartel’ practices U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden was in Iowa Friday, asking farmers from across the country to share their experiences dealing with consolidation and pricing issues in the fertilizer industry.
	Knight's Pizza named Best Pizza in the Quad Cities The 64 recently hosted the Best Pizza in the Quad Cities competition. Pizza restaurants around the Quad Cities competed against each other in a bracket-style tournament and fans voted for their favorites. The winner was announced early this morning. Caden Knight, owner of Knight’s Pizza spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to talk [...]
	Northeast Iowa veterans building memorial park for Vietnam fallen A group of veterans is building a memorial park in Giard to honor Iowa’s Vietnam veterans, including 53 lost service members from northeastern Iowa.
	Charges dropped against Des Moines man facing sexual exploitation, grooming charges in Scott County Charges have been dropped against a Des Moines man who was accused of grooming and sexual exploitation of a minor.
	Smithfield Foods employee dies at facility in workplace incident A Smithfield Foods team member was fatally injured in a workplace incident at the Monmouth facility, spokesperson says.
	Man accused of kidnapping Waterloo girl found guilty of all charges A jury has found a Michigan man guilty of kidnapping a 12-year-old girl from Waterloo.
	Bob Mackie, designer who dressed Marilyn Monroe, Elton John and Cher, dies at 87 The visionary costume and fashion designer was known as the "Sultan of Sequins" for his eye-catching celebrity looks.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Sept. 14, 2026 YWCA is holding a diaper drive across its Quad Cities locations and the Muscatine Fire Department is holding a memorial to honor fallen firefighter Michael Kruse.
	Gas prices up 20 cents per gallon in the Quad-Cities, diesel up 31.6 cents Prices in the Quad-Cities are 25.9 cents per gallon higher than a month ago.
	Clinton community raises awareness with No Data Center Concert The goal was to protect the communities needs against a data center proposal in Clinton.
	One dead after workplace incident at Smithfield Foods, Monmouth One person is dead after a fatal workplace incident at Smithfield Foods in Monmouth this morning. The company emailed a statement to Our Quad Cities News about the incident. “We are deeply saddened to confirm the loss of a team member who was fatally injured in a workplace incident this morning at our Monmouth facility. [...]
	Inside America’s rising fraud hotspots: 2026 update Inside America’s rising fraud hotspots: 2026 updateFraud has quickly become one of the fastest-growing crimes in the United States. According to the FTC, Americans reported losing $3.5 billion dollars to imposter scams in 2025.As our lives move more and more online, scammers find new and more covert ways to adapt to the digital landscape. In the past, scammers were limited to the people in their vicinity; today, they can target thousands of people at a time.Data has repeatedly shown that fraud tends to occur in clusters; scammers tend to gravitate towards “hotspots” for a wide variety of reasons. As such, certain cities and metropolitan statistical areas tend to be magnets for fraudulent activity.Here, PeopleFinders takes a look at five of America’s biggest fraud hotspots, signs of fraudulent activity, and ways that you can protect yourself against it.Identifying America’s Biggest Fraud HotspotsFraud is essentially any scheme that tricks a person into giving away money, personal information, passwords, or access to their private accounts.These hotspot rankings are based primarily on the FTC Fraud & Identity Theft Maps, and also draw from the FTC’s most recently available nationwide data report, the 2024 Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book. Metropolitan statistical areas are ranked by their total number of fraud reports. Metropolitan areas are ranked using fraud reports per 100,000 residents.It’s important to note that higher reporting rates don’t necessarily mean residents are more likely to be victimized; they may simply reflect that residents report fraud more consistently.10 Rising Fraud Hotspots in AmericaWhere is fraud happening the most in the United States? The following 10 metropolitan areas consistently rank among the highest for reported fraud in FTC data.The data below is per 100,000 residents:Homosassa Springs, Florida – 304Ocala, Florida – 298Punta Gorda, Florida – 297Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, Florida – 285Wildwood-The Villages, Florida – 276Prescott Valley-Prescott, Arizona – 276Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, Florida – 275Las Vegas-Henderson-North Las Vegas, Nevada – 273Jacksonville, Florida – 267Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – 266Interestingly, Florida’s metropolitan areas take up a staggering seven slots out of the 10 available, including all of the top five. Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest fraud reporting rates for a host of potential reasons, including its large and growing population, its high proportion of retirees, its tourist-heavy seasons, and its high levels of online vulnerabilities.These potential reasons are not unique to Florida. While the FTC doesn’t specifically identify a reason why certain areas report higher fraud rates, experts generally point to many of the aforementioned reasons across the board. In other words, all U.S. states, including those both on and off of the list, may be vulnerable to fraudulent activity due to a combination of the following reasons.Common Warning Signs of FraudThough fraud is not confined to the aforementioned cities, it may be beneficial to keep an eye out for suspicious behavior if you live in or near one. If you notice any of the following warning signs, proceed with extreme caution.Someone Creates a False Sense of UrgencyScammers thrive off of false senses of urgency; they know that putting people under pressure makes them more likely to act impulsively. Be wary if someone claims that immediate payment is required, threatens unjust legal action, warns of an emergency involving your loved ones, or says that your account will be closed.Requiring Unusual Payment MethodsUnusual payment methods include:Gift CardsCryptocurrencyWire TransfersPayment AppsSending Cash via MailLegitimate organizations rarely request these methods. If someone asks you to utilize them, you should proceed with caution.They Ask for Personal InformationIf someone asks for your Social Security number, banking credentials, credit card information, or for you to share one-time verification codes, it’s a huge red flag. Legitimate organizations will rarely request sensitive information unexpectedly.Something Seems OffDoes the interaction feel strange? Trust your instincts. Poor grammar, generic greetings, fake websites, and inconsistent details can be surefire signs that something is awry.How to Protect Yourself From FraudLooking to implement preventative measures? Work the following tips into your interactions to reduce your likelihood of falling victim to fraud.Research Unfamiliar People Before RespondingScammers often impersonate people to gain their victims’ trust. People search tools can help you identify known scammers and recognize fake identities.Verify Before RespondingMake sure that you only contact businesses using their official websites and phone numbers. Also, never utilize or rely upon contact information that’s provided in strange or suspicious messages.Slow Down Before You Send MoneyScammers rely on panic and urgency; they know it makes you more likely to act impulsively. Before you send money, you should pause, verify, and consider seeking a second opinion.Be Cautious About Links and AttachmentsNever click unexpected links, and look carefully at URLs before you open them. If possible, manually typing out website addresses can help you ensure that you’re navigating to the correct website.Monitor Your Financial AccountsReview your bank statements regularly for unfamiliar charges. If it’s an option, consider setting up account alerts so you’re notified of strange activity the moment it happens.Fraud Isn’t Limited to HotSpot CitiesJust because you’re in a hotspot city doesn’t mean you’re at risk, and just because you aren’t doesn’t mean you’re risk-free. Scammers operate nationwide, and fraud attempts remain common across the board.As criminals begin to increasingly exploit online methods, they slowly chip away at geographic boundaries that once posed barriers to their schemes. Taking precautions and staying informed can mean the difference between a fraud attempt and a successful fraudulent attack.This story was produced by PeopleFinders and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What property data APIs are changing about how investors find and evaluate real estate deals What property data APIs are changing about how investors find and evaluate real estate dealsIn the increasingly cutthroat world of real estate investing, both large and small firms are continually searching for ways to find potentially profitable deals before the competition. One answer, seemingly, has come in the form of property data APIs, or application programming interfaces.You may have heard of APIs if you listen to tech podcasts or follow tech influencers on social media. However, if you invest in properties, you might not have realized that these APIs could transform your own workflow by dramatically scaling your research methods.PropertyReach takes a look at property data APIs, why you should consider using them for your real estate investment business, and how you can get started with this groundbreaking technology.What, Exactly, is an API?An API (application programming interface) is a digital tool that retrieves data from external databases, analyzes it, and presents it in a way that users want. It’s somewhat like a digital middleman—an entity that receives requests from a human user, goes to another place on the internet, and comes back with well-presented datasets.How Does a Property Data API Work?Many real estate investors—especially those at smaller firms—have company websites that primarily function as communication tools, and little else. The mountains of data live on other websites. But an optimal website for the real estate investor would still need to access and use those external datasets so visitors can get the information they need.So, an investor will either create or subscribe to a property data API service that has permission to interact with relevant data. If, for instance, an investor wants a list of motivated sellers in a specific ZIP code, they could set up an API to fetch all properties with lis pendens notices and tax delinquencies within that specified area.Without the investor or someone on the staff having to dedicate time to manually research properties, APIs can save valuable resources.Real Estate Investors Benefit Uniquely from Property Data APIsNearly every profession on earth is becoming more data-driven, which is the primary reason APIs have surged in usage and popularity. Some lines of work benefit more from this technology than others, though, and real estate investing is one of them.Investors often evaluate hundreds of properties before deciding to send one “get-to-know-you” letter to a property owner. Before they actually put in an offer, they could go through tens of thousands of properties.Finding the proverbial needle in the haystack or diamond in the rough is much more feasible when you don’t have to personally inspect each blade of grass. Other industries heavily reliant on APIs include health care, manufacturing, telecommunications, and general professional services.3 Ways Property Investors are Using APIs to Optimize their OperationsThe value an investor can get out of a finely tuned data API is really only limited by their imagination and ingenuity. Below are three features and benefits real estate investors are currently getting from their APIs.1. Automated Scoring SystemsOne of the best, most practical uses of property data APIs is the ability for investors to obtain automatically scored properties. Even the most sophisticated filters on real estate websites with robust datasets may not be able to score properties within seconds the way APIs can.For example, investors could request a list of properties with a mortgage origination date of at least 20 years prior, combined with absentee ownership and an appreciating value. They could then select the characteristic they deem most important and weigh the overall score accordingly.2. Valuation Modeling.Another way for tech-savvy real estate investors to take advantage of the API boom is for property valuation modeling. It’s one thing to see listing prices on platforms like Zillow or Redfin, but building up your own subjective valuation model can be much more precise.Your sophisticated valuation model needs data, though, and lots of it. Enter your property data API. It brings together expertise in your field and cutting-edge data technology tools.3. Ongoing Analysis for Portfolio Properties.Property data APIs can continue working for real estate investors after they’ve used them to home in on qualified properties. Every now and then—or even regularly—you could have an API fetch data on comps for properties your firm already owns.Other potentially useful information might include:Area listing price trendsFuture rental estimatesProperty tax recordsHOA feesLocal vacancy ratesSchool district scoresUtility ratesHow to Get Started with Your New Property Data APIIf the latest technology has never been your forte, learning about APIs, much less using them effectively, can seem a little overwhelming. During your search (and eventual onboarding) for a good property data API, view the following steps as your North Star.Define Your Scope and Target DatasetsBefore doing anything else, you need to define what you want your API to do and where you want it to go. You’ll have no shortage of options once you start looking, but each API performs unique actions.Do you want granular information on each property’s physical characteristics, or would you rather zoom out for exhaustive data on properties’ geographical areas? Answering those types of questions will help you find the right tool.Select an API and Obtain Your KeyAfter you sign up for an API service, you’ll need to get the key so that your API has permission to get information from external datasets. You should also connect your new API with existing data within your organization.Test the API’s Capabilities on Properties You’re Already Familiar WithLike any other serious real estate investor, you’re eager to get the ball rolling and start analyzing some promising properties. However, it’s best to start with a few test subjects so you can get fully acquainted with your API.After you get your first results, check the information against reputable online databases and property search tools. If you notice huge discrepancies, it might be time to adjust the API’s settings.Embrace New Technology for Better WorkflowsThe learning curve dissuades many professionals from adopting APIs. The initial time investment, though, can unlock countless hours during the workweek you can use for more human-centric tasks.The bottom line is that your property data API should complement your natural ability to identify lucrative property investments. If all goes well, you can beat the competition to the punch without feeling rushed.This story was produced by PropertyReach and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	KWQC+ to stream special River Bandits show KWQC+ will stream a preview show Tuesday at 2 p.m. ahead of Game Two of the Midwest League championship series between the Quad Cities River Bandits and the Dayton Dragons.
	Deere calls back 375 workers in Quad-Cities The company will return 150 employees to Seeding and Cylinder operations in Moline and approximately 225 employees to Harvester Works in East Moline.
	16th annual Hispanic Heritage Parade & Fiesta held in East Moline The 16th annual League of United Latin American Citizens Council #5285 Hispanic Heritage Parade & Fiesta was held at Runner’s Park.
	What families need to know about postpartum psychosis What families need to know about postpartum psychosisA few weeks after a healthy delivery, a young mother became convinced her husband was having an affair. There was no affair. But her parents believed her. Her sister believed her. So did her therapist and, later, her lawyer. Everyone believed her, because nothing about her looked like an illness. Only when the fear hardened into something stranger, and then frightening, did anyone suspect the truth: She was in the grip of postpartum psychosis — one of the rarest and most dangerous conditions in psychiatry, and one that most clinicians will never see in an entire career.That gap between how devastating the illness is and how seldom it is recognized sits at the center of every high-profile postpartum psychosis case that reaches a courtroom. The Massachusetts prosecution of Lindsay Clancy has renewed a national conversation about how a new mother can allegedly seek help repeatedly and still slip through the cracks. Two decades earlier, the trial of Andrea Yates in Texas raised the same question. The purpose here is not to weigh guilt or innocence, but to explain a clinical reality: Postpartum psychosis is easy to miss, and understanding why is the first step toward catching it in time.While postpartum psychosis symptoms and warning signs are very important, LifeStance Health examines a different question: Why does an illness this serious so often go unrecognized, even when a mother is already under a clinician’s care?Why the illness is so easy to overlookPostpartum psychosis affects an estimated 1 to 2 in every 1,000 deliveries, which makes it one of the least common conditions a mental health professional will encounter. Rarity is a core reason why the diagnosis may be missed.Consider the arithmetic of a single clinician’s career. In more than four decades of this author’s psychiatric practice, only three cases of postpartum psychosis have knowingly presented, and each looked strikingly different from the others. One patient developed the belief that her husband was deceiving and “messing with” her mind. Another, seen in a New York hospital in 1988, arrived showing severe signs of psychosis and mania, insisting on a fabricated identity. But only later did the team learn she had recently given birth, and the postpartum origin of her illness was recognized well after admission. A third presented with manic symptoms and a conviction that her husband was looking “strange” and had somehow changed; she was diagnosed with bipolar mania and maintained on lithium for over a decade.Three cases, three entirely different faces of the same illness. If an experienced psychiatrist sees the condition only a handful of times in a lifetime, a newer clinician — or a therapist, obstetrician or nurse practitioner who has never encountered it — may not recognize it.Postpartum psychosis vs. depressionMuch of maternal mental health screening is built around depression since postpartum depression and anxiety are far more common after giving birth. But the tools designed to catch them are not designed to catch psychosis. A standard depression questionnaire asks about sadness, guilt and loss of interest; it does not ask, for example, whether a mother believes her baby is in supernatural danger or if her partner has been replaced. A mother experiencing psychosis can also look calm and lucid between episodes, since the symptoms wax and wane.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends routine perinatal screening for depression and anxiety using validated questionnaires, yet it does not call for universal screening aimed specifically at psychosis, largely because the condition is so rare. The result is a real blind spot: A mother experiencing psychosis who does not screen as depressed can pass through a well-run system without her actual illness ever being named. Rising concern about broader maternal mental health has sharpened attention on this gap, but the screening mismatch remains.Postpartum psychosis and bipolar disorderOne of the most important clues is also one of the most overlooked. A 2016 review in the American Journal of Psychiatry describes postpartum psychosis as closely tied to the bipolar spectrum — essentially an atypical presentation of bipolar disorder triggered by childbirth, with symptoms that most often begin within the first two weeks after delivery. Individuals with bipolar disorder tend to respond to mood stabilizers such as lithium and to antipsychotic medication (when taken as prescribed) rather than to antidepressants alone.This distinction has enormous practical weight. When the underlying illness is bipolar in nature, antidepressants on their own may not address the problem and can sometimes worsen symptoms. A postpartum patient cycling through multiple antidepressant trials without meaningful improvement is a signal that the diagnosis may be inaccurate. Medications are appropriate only when prescribed by a clinician and taken exactly as prescribed, and finding the right one is a careful process handled through medication management. A pattern of repeated medication changes without noted progress should prompt a fresh look at what is actually being treated.There is a further trap. Because most women with postpartum depression recover within a few months, the bipolar connection can be hard to confirm in the moment. On the other hand, a smaller group of women in the postpartum stage does go on to develop classic bipolar disorder and need long-term treatment. The same illness can therefore look like a one-time crisis in one individual and a lifelong mood disorder in another.Why the diagnosis gets missedSeveral forces line up to keep postpartum psychosis hidden.The first is training. Although earlier editions of psychiatry’s diagnostic manual listed postpartum psychosis, it carries no standalone code in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), or the U.S.’s mental health guidebook. As a result, U.S. textbooks, courses and clinical training often give it little attention, and clinicians may never be taught to look for it. On the contrary, the World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and subscribing European nations do acknowledge postpartum psychosis.The second is the illness itself. Individuals often have enough self-awareness during lucid periods to hide their most frightening thoughts, especially from authority figures, out of fear of hospitalization or losing custody of their children. The distressing or delusional thoughts that accompany postpartum psychosis are not the same as the fleeting, unwanted intrusive thoughts that many anxious new parents experience. A delusion feels completely true to the person living it, which is exactly why a new mother may not report it.The third is disconnected care. A new mother may be seeing an obstetrician, a therapist, a prescriber and sometimes an inpatient team, each holding a single puzzle piece. Cross-examination in the Clancy case highlighted exactly this danger: providers who were not comparing notes. When no one connects the fragments, the larger psychiatric picture may not come into focus, so a disjointed care model likely makes diagnosis more difficult.How clinicians diagnose postpartum psychosisBecause the illness disguises itself so well, catching it depends less on a single test than on a thorough, deliberate evaluation. Here’s what a provider should consider:Rule it in, not out. Any unusual thinking or behavior in a woman who has recently given birth should raise postpartum psychosis as a possibility, even when she does not look depressed.Interview the family, not just the individual. Because mothers frequently conceal psychotic thoughts (out of fear), input from a spouse, parent, sibling or friends is often what reveals the true picture. Experienced clinicians insist on speaking with those closest to her.Prioritize an in-person evaluation when someone is not improving. Subtle changes in affect, expression and behavior are easier to read face-to-face than on a screen, and judicious in-person visits matter most precisely when an individual is doing poorly.Coordinate across providers. A connected, team-based approach, and the idea behind a collaborative care model, help ensure that a therapist, prescriber and obstetrician are not working from partial views.When to seek helpFamilies should never dismiss dramatic personality changes, unusual beliefs, paranoia or a sudden loss of touch with reality in the weeks after a birth. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency, and it warrants urgent inpatient hospitalization, preferably in a dedicated mother-baby psychiatric unit. If symptoms like these appear, seek care immediately rather than waiting to see whether they pass. When there is any concern about a mother’s or infant’s safety, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.The most hopeful part of this difficult subject is that the illness is often treatable once it is correctly identified. Getting to the right diagnosis and getting the right care is what allows that kind of improvement to reach the mothers who need it. If something does not feel right after giving birth, keep asking questions until the concern is fully addressed.This story was published by LifeStance Health and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The hottest new degree on campus this fall? A bachelor’s in content creation The hottest new degree on campus this fall? A bachelor’s in content creationArizona State University will enroll its first Content Creation majors this fall. The bachelor’s degree, housed in the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, teaches video and podcast production, audience analytics, and personal branding, and its capstone requires students to build a following on a platform of their choice and show measurable growth before they graduate. It is the newest entry in a quiet wave: Three content creation bachelor’s degrees launched in the fall of 2023 alone, and Syracuse University opened the nation’s first academic center for the creator economy last September, Net Influencer reports.These programs are easy to mock. Nobody needs a diploma to go viral, and the MrBeasts, Ms. Rachels, and Alix Earles of the world never majored in it.The story is the scale of the need. An entire economy now runs on this breed of entertainment, personality-driven video built to capture and hold attention in the feed: creator companies staffed like studios, brands building creator teams of their own, agencies in between. All of it is thirsty for people who understand how it works, and until now those people were trained nowhere. The degrees are for them, not for the stars.One Face on Camera, a Company Underneath Net Influencer The organization behind MrBeast, one of the largest creator businesses on earth, spans Beast Industries, Feastables, Beast Philanthropy, and Viewstats. A Net Influencer reconstruction of public employment records counts roughly 370 people working there today, out of more than 1,100 who have passed through over the company’s history.The most common job title in the MrBeast organization is not influencer. It is producer, followed by assistant editor and camera operator. Barely a third of the jobs today involve making content; the rest sit in operations, finance, engineering, marketing, and HR, the jobs of a mid-size media company. One face carries the channel. The rest is a company, and every seat in it demands fluency in a breed of entertainment nobody was teaching.The pattern holds at every scale. “Hiring people was the turning point when my work started to feel like a small business,” says creator Ryan Kelly. Creators stall at the point where growth means management, and the successful ones recruit seasoned executives, because operating experience is the one thing an audience cannot teach. The trade runs both ways: the executives arrive with the operating experience and must develop a fluency in the attention economy that no previous job taught them. A creator, at scale, is a payroll.Attention Is the Contest Net Influencer Creator companies staff for attention natively, because attention is the business. Beast Industries spent June recruiting a Head of TikTok for all MrBeast ventures, and the posting’s requirements measure how thin the qualified pool is: six to ten years running TikTok or short-form social for a major creator or consumer brand, with team management and proven channel growth. TikTok has been available in the United States for eight years. The company is asking for someone who has held a job almost as long as the job has existed.Brands are bidding for the same thin pool, in public. The job postings of the last two months read like a roll call of the consumer economy: Unilever building a global influencer function, and Cadillac, e.l.f. Beauty, Temu, SharkNinja, Rivian, Instacart, Hilton, Campbell’s, SEGA, and Warner Music Group all hiring creator and influencer roles, with OnePay offering $240,000 to $290,000 for a Head of Social and Influencer Marketing. These are not media companies; they are car makers, soup makers, and hotels, and a $290,000 salary for social media is what scarcity looks like. Ishveen Jolly, founder of OpenSponsorship, summarizes where the market has landed: no brand is skipping influencer marketing anymore; the only question left is whether to do it in-house or through a third party.The logic driving this is one mapped in June. Attention lives in feeds, content spoils in hours, and no marketing department can produce at feed velocity, so companies buy the capacity from creators. But the buying side is itself skilled work: sourcing, vetting, briefing, negotiating, measuring. Gabe Gordon of the agency Reach watched that work move onto payrolls, with large companies writing standing job descriptions for roles that used to be one-off agency engagements. Marketing has run this play before: the tech sector began pulling agency work in-house around 2013, starting with media buying. What is moving in-house now is the entire discipline of manufactured attention.Nobody Trained This Payroll Net Influencer “Influencer marketing is kind of stuck in most brands because they cannot hire,” says Aurélie Sauthier, who runs the influencer agency Maiden. The discipline does not scale like software, she notes. It scales like staffing, and the staff does not exist.Jeremy Barbara, a consultant who builds influencer programs inside brands, prices the gap in time: Hiring one in-house influencer marketer takes about six months, then three to six months of testing before anything works, roughly a year from decision to functioning program. The brands that call him keep arriving with the same opening line: we do not know where to start.Run-of-the-mill marketing degrees have not improved the talent pipeline. Jacob Hiler, a marketing professor at Ohio University, says the standard curriculum has barely moved since his own student days: still the four P’s, consumer behavior, market research. Kyle Hjelmeseth and Kofo Jolaoso, who run the talent firm G&B Digital Management and the education venture College of Influence, dated the gap precisely: Until this year, students received virtually no education about influencer marketing, despite its becoming a giant share of the digital marketing mix. An economy-wide hiring need, met by a syllabus written before the feed existed. Markets do not leave gaps like that open.The Tuition Was Already Being PaidThe paradox of creator education is that the information is free, and people pay anyway. One course business has put more than 30,000 students through its programs. One creator community charges $5,000 a year. Talent firms now run mandatory monthly workshops for their own rosters, and the YouTube franchise Spy Ninjas is building what it calls a creator class, “essentially like a creator university,” where recruits are paid while they learn. Every technique these programs teach is a search away. What buyers pay for was never the information. It is structure, mentorship, and a signal they can show someone else.That signal is becoming formal. The industry has started manufacturing credentials for itself: BBB National Programs is building an influencer certification, digital training with an exam and a credential at the end, and the EU, Australia, and India already run formal creator training and certification. An industry writing its own exams has stopped debating whether the training matters. It is deciding who the certifier of record will be, and the universities are slowly noticing that trade groups, foreign regulators, and the creators themselves are encroaching on turf that was historically theirs. They have been responding in ascending order of prestige: a community college certificate in 2022, three bachelor’s degrees at small colleges in 2023, a Texas public university in 2024, and the flagship journalism schools in 2026.What Film School Actually Sold Net Influencer Higher education has run this exact sequence before. On Feb. 6, 1929, the University of Southern California opened a course called Introduction to Photoplay, built with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, with Douglas Fairbanks giving the first lecture and a founding faculty that read like a studio call sheet: Mary Pickford, D.W. Griffith, Ernst Lubitsch, Irving Thalberg, Darryl Zanuck. USC’s own history records that the “crazy idea was the talk of Hollywood.” Three years later, USC granted America’s first bachelor’s degree in cinema, in 1932.Film school never minted stars. The great directors still come from everywhere, and the degree was never selling stardom anyway. It sold three things, and all three worked: standardized training for the crew, a hiring pipeline for the studios, and a respectable reason for parents to fund a child’s entry into a disreputable industry.The two clocks nearly match. Film: one course in 1929, a degree in 1932. Creators: a first-of-its-kind influencer course at USC in 2019, the first bachelor’s degrees in 2023, the flagship journalism schools in 2026.The wave will produce failures, the way credential markets always do. East Carolina’s much-publicized MrBeast credentialing partnership never launched, and Columbia College Chicago is folding its early social media major into a generic marketing degree. Neither is evidence against the trend. It is how a real market separates winners from losers.The Universities Need This, TooWhat makes institutionalization stick is that the need runs both directions. Higher education is under a microscope on return on investment, enrollment is the revenue line, and journalism schools have spent a decade watching their traditional destination industry shrink. For Cronkite and its peers, the creator economy is a lifeline.Nobody sits closer to that calculation than Mark J. Lodato, who spent 14 years at Arizona State’s Cronkite School and now, as dean of Syracuse’s Newhouse School, is building the rival: a Center for the Creator Economy led jointly with the business school, with a minor open to any major on campus. He describes the demand engine plainly: students argue they do not need college because they can earn as creators, while their parents very much want the diploma. The standoff resolves in the university’s favor. The student gets the industry, the parent gets the degree, and the school gets the enrollment. His warning to his own sector is blunt: The creator economy will keep pushing higher education to adapt, and if it fails, the industry will pass it by.The Filters Are Coming Net Influencer The industry built these jobs on its own. The degrees are the outside world catching up: The institutions that certify professions have decided this one qualifies. The sequence from here is predictable because it has run before: standardized titles, then salary bands, then credential filters, then campus recruiting. No job posting anywhere requires a degree in content creation yet, and none will for years. That is what early looks like. The jobs arrive first. The filters follow. And at the end of the sequence, one school’s name becomes the default line on a résumé. That is what certifier of record means, and the contest for it opened this fall.The graduates will go, overwhelmingly, to work for creators and for the brands chasing them. Twenty years from now, nobody will ask why anyone would major in content creation. For the jobs that fill the org chart under the face, the strategists, campaign managers, and producers, the question will point the other way: Why would we hire someone without it? The studios that called film school a crazy idea spent the next century hiring from it. The companies laughing now will do the same, and sooner.This story was produced by Net Influencer and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	When is the best time to move? What a million moves say about timing When is the best time to move? What a million moves say about timingThe best time to move is mid-September through mid-October. Movers are more available, the weather is comfortable for heavy lifting, and you are not competing with half the country for the same weekend.Most guides get there by a different route. Nearly every "best time to move" article tells you to move in January to save money. But across more than a million completed local moves over the past five years, the month barely impacts the price, according to data from Lugg, an on-demand moving and delivery service. The gap between the cheapest month of the year and the priciest is under 4%. What the calendar does decide is whether the date and the arrival window you want are still available when you go to book, and that varies a great deal.Almost all of this is about local moving. Roughly three in four Americans who move each year stay within the same state, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The everyday American move is a few rooms of furniture carried a few miles across town, which is the kind this data covers.Is there a cheapest month to move?Not in any way worth planning around. Month by month the median price moves within a couple of percent of itself all year, with no real seasonal shape to it.Whether that holds for you depends on your moving company. Some add a peak-season surcharge in the busy months and some do not, so it is worth asking how yours prices before treating the calendar as neutral. Interstate movers are explicit about it: the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's own moving glossary defines peak season rates as higher line haul charges applicable during the summer months. Hourly moving companies work differently again, generally billing $105 to $165 an hour for two movers, with minimums that keep even a short job from being cheap.What is the busiest month for movers?August, and it has been every year Lugg has measured. According to the data, August runs about 23% above an average month and roughly half again as busy as December at the other end of the year. The industry's own calendar agrees on the shape: The American Trucking Associations calls May National Moving Month and describes peak season as running from May through the summer. May is the ramp, and August is the peak. Ask for a specific date and arrival window in February and you will usually get it. Ask in August and you are picking from what is left. How hard that bites depends on where you live: In Boston, August runs at twice an average month, while Los Angeles and Seattle barely have a season at all.The best season to moveFall, September through November, is the sweet spot. Demand falls off sharply after Labor Day. Families are settled into the school year, and summer leases have turned over. There is more crew capacity around, so you are more likely to get the date and arrival window you asked for.The first days of September are their own rush, though. In cities built around a Sept. 1 lease turn, the turnover is dense enough to have earned a name. Boston calls it Allston Christmas. If your lease dates are flexible at all, aiming for the second half of the month puts you past it.Winter, December through February, is the quietest stretch. December and February are the two quietest months, so this is when you have the widest choice of dates. But weather can be a factor. A storm can delay a move by days, and shorter daylight leaves less room if the job runs long, so a holiday-season move needs more slack in the plan than a September one. If you are somewhere without hard winters, like Phoenix, Los Angeles or Miami, winter is the easiest time of year to move and carries little of that risk.Spring is the ramp. Volume climbs steadily out of the February trough as end-of-lease season begins, and keeps climbing through the summer. If you are selling a home, spring is prime time. If you are renting, the deeper into the season you go the more you are competing for the same weekends.Summer is the peak. Most people move in summer, because of school schedules, graduations, and the simple fact that nobody wants to move in a snowstorm. That does not mean you pay more, but it does mean tighter scheduling and less give on your arrival window. College move-out and move-in compress into a few days on either side of the academic calendar, so a dorm move is worth booking as far ahead as the school will confirm the date.Does the day of the week matter?For the price, no. For getting the slot you want, more than you would think. Across more than 250,000 completed Lugg moves in the past year, Saturday and Friday are the two busiest days by a clear margin and Thursday is the quietest, with a little over 20% between them. Sunday sits in the middle.So the old advice to move midweek is right, for the wrong reason. It will not cut your bill, because the price does not depend on the day. What it buys is an emptier day: more crews free, lighter traffic, and less competition for a parking spot, a loading zone or a freight elevator. If your lease dates give you a choice between a Saturday and a Wednesday, take the Wednesday.When the date is not up to youMost people do not get to pick a month. A lease ends, a closing date lands, a job starts, and the calendar is decided for you. Four smaller levers usually stay open.Where your date falls inside the month is the first, and it matters more than the month itself. Leases cluster at the edges, and the last three days of a month run about 16% busier than a mid-month day according to Lugg data. If your lease gives you any latitude at all, the 12th is a much easier day than the 31st.The building is the second, and it is usually the real bottleneck rather than the movers. Freight elevator reservations and loading dock windows go first come, first served, and in a large building the good ones are gone weeks out. Reserve that window as soon as your lease is signed, then book the move to fit it.Lead time is the third, and it is where the season shows up most clearly. August is the one month of the year when the typical mover plans ahead, and planning ahead of them is the whole advantage.Time of day is the fourth lever, and the one almost nobody uses. The earliest arrival window your building allows is the best one: The crew is fresh rather than coming off another job, you beat afternoon traffic, and in summer you avoid the worst of the heat. Early windows are also the easiest to book, since most people default to mid-morning or afternoon.Is it cheaper to move in winter?The move itself, no. The apartment, yes. The national median rent falls by about 1.6% from its summer peak to its low point in November, according to Apartment List, and landlords are more willing to offer move-in incentives when fewer people want to sign a lease in the cold. The trade-off is a smaller selection of units, which matters most if it is your first apartment.An apartment move also carries a cost the calendar cannot help with, which is paying two rents at once. If your dates are negotiable, closing the gap between leases is the first thing to fix. On timing, September through November is the easiest window: Summer is peak turnover season, especially in college towns and dense cities, and by September the rush is over, so there is more negotiating room on the apartment itself and an easier time booking a cross-town move into it.What actually reduces the billThe month, the weekday and the time of day barely move the price. The following factors do, and they are worth more of your planning than any date.Reduce the volume. Every item carried costs time, so sell, donate or clear out anything not making the trip. If a good pile of it is going nowhere, finding the dump or donation center before moving day is cheaper than carrying it twice.Be packed before the crew arrives. Boxed, labeled and staged near the door. This is the single largest controllable factor in how long a job takes, and it starts with having the right supplies on hand a few days early.Disassemble ahead of time. Bed frames apart, table legs off, hardware in labeled bags taped to the piece.Get the vehicle right the first time. A second trip costs more than the next size up, so size the truck to the load before you book.Book with enough runway. A week out puts you ahead of the great majority of August bookings and gives you the widest choice of arrival windows. Off season, a few days is usually plenty.How to pick your moving dateIf you have a choice, move in late September or October, mid-month rather than at either end, and midweek if your lease will allow it. Volume is off its peak, the weather is workable, and the dates are still open. If scheduling freedom matters more than the weather, December and February are the quietest months of the year.What you should not do is reorganize your life around the calendar expecting a discount. How much you are moving, and how ready you are when the crew arrives, is the bill.This story was produced by Lugg and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Monmouth Smithfield Foods worker dead after workplace incident A worker at the Smithfield Foods Monmouth location died Monday morning after a workplace incident.
	Finding the best skin care routine for acne-prone skin Finding the best skin care routine for acne-prone skinWhat is acne?Acne is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. It can appear anywhere on the body but is most common on the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Acne can range from mild congestion to more inflamed breakouts. Dove breaks down the different types of acne to help you choose the best skin care routine for your skin’s needs.Whiteheads: These are small bumps that form when pores become clogged and remain closed at the surface of the skin. They often appear white or flesh-coloured and are a common form of mild acne.Blackheads: Blackheads happen when a clogged pore stays open. The dark appearance isn’t dirt, it’s caused by oxidation when oil and dead skin cells are exposed to air.Papules: These are small, red, inflamed bumps that can feel tender to the touch. Papules develop when clogged pores become irritated and inflamed.Pustules: Often recognized as classic “pimples,” pustules are red bumps with a white or yellow center filled with pus. They can occur when inflammation and bacteria build up within the pore.Nodules: Nodules are larger, deeper, and more painful breakouts that form beneath the skin’s surface. They can take longer to heal and may require targeted treatment.Cystic acne: This is one of the more severe forms of acne. Cysts are deep, painful, pus-filled breakouts that can increase the risk of scarring if not treated carefully.What causes acne?Acne can develop for a number of different reasons, and often it’s caused by a combination of factors rather than just one. Understanding what may be triggering your breakouts can help you build an effective acne-prone skin routine.Excess oil production: When the skin produces too much oil (sebum), it can mix with dead skin cells and clog pores, creating the perfect environment for breakouts to form.Clogged pores: Dead skin cells, oil, and impurities can build up inside pores, leading to congestion and acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads.Bacteria on the skin: A build-up of acne-causing bacteria inside clogged pores can trigger inflammation, redness, and more noticeable breakouts.Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones — particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or periods of stress — can increase oil production and contribute to acne flare-ups.Stress: While stress doesn’t directly cause acne, it can increase cortisol levels, which may stimulate oil production and worsen existing breakouts.Diet and lifestyle factors: For some people, factors like lack of sleep, dehydration, smoking, or certain foods may contribute to breakouts or inflammation, although triggers can vary from person to person.Heavy or irritating skincare products: Using products that are too harsh, overly oily, or not suited to your skin type can clog pores or irritate the skin, potentially making acne worse.Friction and sweat: Tight clothing, sports equipment, or sweat sitting on the skin for long periods can contribute to body acne, especially on the back, chest, and shoulders.Morning routine for acne-prone skinThe right morning and night skin care routine is a key step towards clearer skin.Your new morning skin care routine starts in the shower, with a whole-body cleanse using with 1% clearing Salicylic Acid. This helps remove overnight oil build-up without stripping your skin.Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic body moisturizer.Don’t forget your SPF — a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from UV damage, which can make acne worse.Nighttime skin care routine for acne-prone skinYour night skin care routine is all about removing the day’s impurities. It can be tempting to reach for harsh products to tackle acne, but acne-prone skin is often sensitive, and gentleness is your best friend.Ready to wash away the day? A sensitive-skin-specific body wash is perfect for this step, offering a thorough cleanse without irritation. A bar version of this also gently washes away germs and dirt, while treating your skin to a big dose of hydration.Once a week, add a gentle exfoliation to help remove dead skin and boost your skin’s radiance.Follow with a nourishing moisturizer to repair and soothe your skin overnight. Look out for a non-greasy, barrier-boosting option.Top tips for managing acne-prone skinConsistency is key. Stick to your routine both morning and night.Be gentle. Avoid harsh scrubs and over-washing, which can irritate your skin.Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy from the inside out.Mind your diet. Foods high in sugar and dairy can sometimes trigger breakouts.Don’t pick. As tempting as it is, picking can lead to scarring and further breakouts.What do dermatologists recommend for acne-prone skin?Dermatologists often recommend taking a balanced approach to your acne skin care routine. They suggest using products with proven ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide while maintaining a gentle touch, as targeted acne treatments can leave skin sensitive and dry..This story was produced by Dove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Jeni Grouws Band brings blues, soul, roots to Cambridge concert Acclaimed singer-songwriter Jeni Grouws will bring her powerful blend of blues, soul and roots rock to Ca d’Zan House Concerts in Cambridge on Friday, Sept. 18. Presented by Crossroads Cultural Connections, the all-ages concert will begin at 7 p.m., after an optional community potluck dinner at 6 p.m. Bishop Hill Creative Commons will serve as [...]
	Galesburg announces cemetery cleanup week Cleanup at Linwood and East Linwood Cemeteries in Galesburg starts later this month. The City of Galesburg said cleanup week at the cemeteries will be Sept. 28 -Oct. 2. Cemetery staff will remove all decorations, flowers, flags and other items placed on gravesites. Families and plot owners who wish to keep the items should pick [...]
	Companion robots are embodied AI's first real market Companion robots are embodied AI's first real marketFuzozo looks like a plush toy small enough to clip onto a bag. But the little robot has become a big hit: it costs 399 yuan ($55) and has sold nearly 300,000 units in China since launching in July 2025. Robopoet, the Shanghai company behind it, says many users talk to Fuzozo for more than 40 minutes a day.The robot is one of a growing class of products known as "cyber pets" or "companion robots," many of which are on show at IFA Berlin this month. Some look like animals, some walk around on their own, while others burp, purr or simply sit there and talk to you. Few have any function beyond providing company, but they are proving to be embodied AI's first real commercial success.Consumer robot maker OlloBot explores the rise of companion robots and what their early success says about the future of embodied AI.Where the commercialization isEmbodied AI, simply put, refers to AI systems that can perceive and interact with the physical world. The category is most commonly associated with humanoid robots, which have gone viral over the past year for falling over, dancing and generally doing things that look more entertaining than useful. But there is serious money behind the hype. Goldman Sachs Research puts the global humanoid market at $38 billion by 2035. Morgan Stanley Research forecasts a $5 trillion market by 2050, with more than 1 billion machines in service.Yet, the industry is still struggling to decide what exactly these humanoid machines are for. Will they be used mainly for factory work, assisting older people or dancing at trade shows? Zhu Xiaohu, managing partner at GSR Ventures, put it well: "Every humanoid robot can do somersaults, but where is the commercialization?"Companion robots, by contrast, may not be able to do somersaults, but they are already selling in large numbers. Fuzozo, which GSR Ventures now backs, moved roughly 40,000 units during China's 618 shopping festival in June. Haivivi's BubblePal, a clip-on charm that turns any soft toy into a talking one, claimed more than 300,000 units at its U.S. launch in April.So why are companion robots delivering sales so much faster than their humanoid equivalents?One reason is that the need for companionship is hardly new. The World Health Organization reported last year that one in six people worldwide experience loneliness. It found the highest rates among people aged 13 to 29, with between 17% and 21% reporting loneliness.Pet ownership has traditionally helped ease feelings of isolation. More than 1 billion pets live in households worldwide, and in a survey by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, 98% of owners reported at least one health benefit from their animals, including reduced loneliness.But not everybody can have a pet. That includes renters whose leases prohibit them, residents of care facilities, frequent travelers, people with allergies and older adults concerned about outliving an animal. Then there are people who simply don't like fluff on the sofa.From fixed behavior to language modelsThe idea of making robots that can substitute for pets has been around for decades. R2-D2, K9 and Doraemon sold the world on machines that could keep people company long before it was possible to build one. But in reality, most things marketed as "robot pets" haven't come close to simulating the relationships people enjoy with their animals.The most famous historically was Sony's Aibo, a robotic dog that launched in 1999 and sold in large numbers. However, it was limited by its fixed behavior. Aibo could respond to touch and roll over like a real canine, but it could not tell one owner from another, and nothing you said to it would change how it behaved the next day.If all you wanted was companionship, a teddy bear did just about as well as Aibo and never needed charging.The second reason is technological. Large language models, and advances in AI more broadly, have freed cyber pets from limited programmable behaviors. Put an LLM inside Aibo and you get something that can listen, answer in its own words and remember what you told it last week. That is the premise behind the current generation of devices at IFA.Studies suggest LLMs can be surprisingly good at producing empathetic responses. In a 2023 JAMA Internal Medicine study, licensed clinicians rated chatbot answers to patient questions as empathetic or very empathetic 45.1% of the time, compared with just 4.6% for responses from physicians.That ability helps make this generation of cyber pets a plausible alternative to keeping an animal: less mess, less maintenance, but still capable of providing comfort to their owners.The growing pains of a fast marketNone of this is to say the sector's success has been without controversy. The massive demand for these products has prompted many companies to rush their own versions to market, and some have been careless about who they sell to and what they ship.Many companion robots are marketed as toys, but the language models that power them require serious safeguards before they are suitable for children. U.S. PIRG tested four AI-enabled toys last year and found that some would discuss sexually explicit material and tell a child where to find matches and knives. Common Sense Media has advised against these products entirely for children aged 5 and under.In other cases, children have woken up to find their robot pets effectively dead after the company running them went out of business. Embodied Inc.â€˜s $799 Moxie companion stopped working after the company shut down because all of its interactions depended on the company's servers. Owners had no way to keep the product running.These problems are relatively easy to fix. Devices should be able to run locally, and companies need to set appropriate age ratings. Nobody wants any old chatbot to be reading their children a bedtime story. But most importantly, these are complications of a young industry moving fast, not one that has failed to find buyers.The humanoid sector has the opposite problem. The demonstrations are impressive and the forecasts are enormous, but the question Zhu raised about commercialization remains unanswered.Humanoids may eventually find their place in factories and hospitals. But embodied AI's first real market is already here: the home, where people are buying robots simply for companionship.This story was produced by OlloBot and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Eight Autumn Outdoor Power Equipment Tips to Avoid Headaches Later (NAPSI)—Once the grass gets its final cut and the leaves are handled, it’s time to swap out the lawn mower, blower, and trimmer for the snow thrower, generator, and chainsaw. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) says handling equipment this fall sets the stage for when the weather turns colder. “A little prep now means less stress—and fewer repair bills—later,” sums up Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of outdoor power equipment, small engines, battery power systems, portable generators, utility and personal transport vehicles, and golf cars.What To DoHere are eight quick tips for getting ready for fall equipment storage and winter weather:1. Follow the manual. Review the manufacturer’s guide and follow all safety steps—especially how to shut down equipment quickly. Never disable or remove safety features.2. Service before storage. Do all maintenance as directed by the owner’s manual. Clean, change oil, swap filters, and handle any repairs before parking summer gear. Give winter equipment a once-over, too. 3. Manage fuel smartly. Be sure to run tanks empty before storage. For winter equipment, use fresh fuel (most engines run on no more than 10% ethanol), add stabilizer according to manufacturer’s guidelines, and use fuel within 30 days.4. Charge and store batteries correctly. Fully charge batteries, keep them away from metal, and store in a climate-controlled space.5. Keep gear sheltered. Store summer equipment where it’s clean and dry. Keep winter gear handy but out of the weather.6. Clear the way. Make space in the garage or shed now. Remove yard debris, toys, and other hazards from the yard before tree leaf piles or snow hide them.7. Be generator-ready. Stock heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords long enough to run your generator at a safe distance from the house. Never operate it indoors or near openings.8. Keep what’s most important inside. When operating any outdoor power equipment, kids and pets should be indoors and supervised. Learn MoreFor more on safety, visit OPEI.org.Word Count: 324
	Deere bringing back more than 375 Quad Cities factory workers Officials said they have brought back or hired more than 800 employees across Iowa and Illinois since January.
	The producer of Fleabag and Baby Reindeer's tip for finding a hit? Don't look for one Theatre producer Francesca Moody has a remarkable record of spotting shows that go on to have wide success. At the Edinburgh Fringe festival, she told NPR about what she looks for in a performance.
	What are the early signs of suicidal ideation? What are the early signs of suicidal ideation?Suicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S. and around the world. Research from 2023 found that one person died by suicide every 11 minutes in the U.S. Despite this, suicide is considered preventable — especially when you’re familiar with suicide warning signs.Most people who take their own life exhibit warning signs, like changes in behavior, mood, or way of thinking. Rula shares what to look for to help recognize when someone is in distress, so you can connect them with the lifesaving care they deserve.Key TakeawaysSuicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S., but it can be prevented with help from a loved one.Learning to recognize suicide warning signs, like changes in behavior or mood, can help you understand when someone is in distress.If someone in your life is struggling with their mental health and well-being, encourage them to speak with a mental health professional right away. You can even help them find a therapist.*A note on safety: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 confidential support through trained crisis counselors. If you or someone you care about is experiencing emotional distress, self-harm, or a suicidal crisis, please call or text 988. For life-threatening emergencies or immediate assistance, call 911.1. Things someone might sayTalking about wanting to die or expressing hopelessness can be a warning sign of suicide risk. Sometimes, people may voice thoughts of suicide directly or indirectly. For example, they might say, “I wish I wasn’t here,” or, “Nobody needs me.” When someone expresses thoughts like these, it’s a sign they may be struggling and could benefit from immediate support.If it seems like someone in your life is having a difficult time, make a point to pay attention to their words. Someone who’s contemplating suicide may talk about:Feeling hopelessHaving no reason to liveBeing a burden to othersFeeling trapped or emptyFeeling unbearable painWishing they weren’t alive 2. Changes in mood and behaviorIt’s common for people who die by suicide to exhibit changes in mood and behavior. A study of people who previously attempted suicide found that some common behavior changes were increased isolation, anxiety and agitation, and worsening of pre-existing mental health symptoms.Other examples of mood and behavior changes that can come before suicide include:Increased use of drugs and/or alcoholWithdrawing from friends, family members, and/or social activitiesNoticeable changes in eating and/or sleeping habitsLosing interest in personal appearance and hygieneSaying goodbye to family and friendsGiving away prized possessionsRecent suicide attempt(s) or self-harming behavior3. Self-harming behaviorsSelf-harm, or nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), is when a person intentionally harms themself without the intent to die. Self-harm can take many forms, including cutting, burning, and scratching. Not everyone who self-harms has suicidal intent, but it is considered a risk factor for suicide.Signs of self-harming behaviors include:Having unexplained injuries, like cuts or burnsWearing long sleeves or pants, even in hot weatherAvoiding situations in which other people might see their skinExpressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessnessExperiencing low self-esteem 4. Social and environmental influencesWhen considering a person’s risk of suicide, it’s important to think about all aspects of their life. Everyone is different, but certain social and environmental influences may contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.Individual risk factors: Previous suicide attempt(s), unmanaged mental health condition(s), legal problemsRelationship risk factors: Social withdrawal, being in a violent relationship, having a loved one who took their own lifeCommunity risk factors: Community violence, discrimination, limited access to healthcareProtective factors against suicideIt’s important to recognize suicide warning signs, but it's also essential to understand how to prevent suicide in the first place. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, there are several proven protective factors against suicide.These protective factors include:Access to mental health providers, like therapists, psychologists, and/or psychiatristsA strong support network and feeling connected to family, friends, and communityHealthy coping mechanisms and problem-solving skillsBelief systems that encourage connection, purpose, and self-awarenessWhat to do if you notice a red flagIf someone in your life seems to be at risk of suicide, you’re probably wondering how you can help. Research shows that the majority of people say they’d like to support a loved one in this situation, but fear they’d say the wrong thing or make the situation worse.There’s no rulebook for navigating this situation, but the following tips can help you address the topic with sensitivity and compassion.1. Start the conversationIf you're concerned about a loved one who seems to be struggling, make a point to check in. Not everyone will show obvious suicide warning signs, so trust your gut and ask how they're doing.Consider directly asking, "Have you ever had thoughts of suicide?" Otherwise, even a simple comment, like, “I know life can be hard sometimes. I’m always here if you want to talk,” can make a meaningful difference.2. Remember to listenWhen someone decides to open up to you, the best thing you can do is listen. Instead of panicking or challenging their thoughts and feelings, try to remain calm and supportive. Social support has been shown to reduce people’s risk of suicide.3. Notice and respondRecognizing when someone may be at risk of suicide can help you take appropriate action. As a friend or loved one, your role isn’t to diagnose or formally assess risk. That’s the job of trained mental health professionals.But you can help by making their environment safer — like removing medications, alcohol, or firearms — and connecting them to support. In other cases, support might mean calling 988 for the crisis hotline or bringing them to a hospital.Clinician’s takeA subtle but important warning sign is when someone starts giving away possessions or tying up ‘loose ends.’ It can seem thoughtful or generous on the surface, but it may be an early signal that they’re preparing for the possibility of not being around anymore. — Brandy Chalmers, LPC, Clinical reviewerThis story was produced by Rula and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	How much does it cost to raise a child in 2026? How much does it cost to raise a child in 2026?Every fall brings the same rhythm: new backpacks, first-day-of-school photos, and a fresh round of expenses that seem to grow a little more each year. Whether it's packing lunches for a kindergartner, writing tuition checks for a college freshman, or somewhere in between, the cost of raising a child in the U.S. has reached a point that's reshaping how families budget, save, and plan, Hometap reports.Raising a child through age 18 now costs $303,418 — the first time that figure has topped $300,000, and a jump of nearly 28% in just three years. And that's before a single college tuition bill arrives.Below is a breakdown of what each stage of childhood costs right now, from daycare to college, including some of the extras that don't always make it into the budget.Daycare and childcare: the early crunchFor many families, the financial reality of parenthood hits hardest before a child ever sets foot in a classroom. The national average price of childcare reached $13,184 a year in 2025.That annual price tag makes up 10% of a two-parent household's median income and 33% of a single parent's. Infant care can run even higher, averaging roughly $14,760 a year at a daycare center.Center-based infant care now costs more than in-state public college tuition in the majority of states. For families with two children in care, childcare for two exceeds median rent in every state with available data.In one recent survey, the average parent reported spending 22% of their household income on childcare, and 20% reported going into debt to afford it.Summer camp: the seasonal budget-busterJust as school-year childcare bills pause, summer arrives with its own price tag. For working parents, summer camp often provides essential coverage for the months when school is out — and it's getting pricier.Day camp averaged about $87 per day based on 2024 data, which adds up to more than $400 a week per child. Overnight camp roughly doubles that, at around $173 per day.Multiplied across a few weeks of camp — and across more than one child — a season of camp can rival a mortgage payment.Back-to-school and K-12 costsOnce the school year begins, spending shifts to supplies, clothes, and technology. Families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $863.86 on back-to-school shopping in 2026, pushing total K-12 back-to-school spending to a record $43.3 billion nationwide.The typical family's budget breaks down roughly like this:Electronics: $293.11Clothing and accessories: $250.29Shoes: $174.01School supplies: $146.45That's just the start-of-year haul — it doesn't account for the extracurriculars, field trips, sports fees, and mid-year replacements that come up over the following nine months. Hometap Private school tuitionFor families who choose private education, the numbers climb steeply. The national average for private K-12 tuition sits at $14,999 a year, with elementary schools averaging around $14,018 and high schools closer to $17,954.Costs vary widely by region and school type — tuition in the most expensive states can run well over $28,000 a year, and elite independent or boarding schools reach far higher. For a family with more than one child in private school, tuition alone can rival a second mortgage.The college years: tuition, housing, and beyondIf the early years are defined by childcare and the middle years by supplies and activities, the teen years bring one of the largest expenses most families will face for a child: college.For the 2025-26 school year, average published tuition and fees came in at:Public four-year, in-state: $11,950Public four-year, out-of-state: $31,880Private nonprofit four-year: $45,000Tuition is only part of the cost. Once housing, food, books, and other essentials are factored in, the total estimated cost of attendance jumps to roughly $30,990 a year for in-state public students and $65,470 a year at private nonprofit colleges.A few additional school costs often catch families off guard:Housing and food. Room and board average about $14,034 a year at public four-year schools, and those costs have been rising faster than tuition itself. Over four years, housing and food alone can total more than $54,760.Books and supplies. Course materials and textbooks add $1,000 on average — before the laptop or computer most first-year students buy.Technology. First-year students spend around $800 a year on technology, with the majority purchasing a computer for school.Stretched across four years — and across multiple kids — college can easily become the largest line item in a family's budget.The full picture: what it all adds up to Hometap The costs of raising a child don't arrive all at once; they compound over two decades or more. Daycare gives way to camp and school supplies, which give way to activities and possibly private tuition, which give way to college. Through all of it, the total cost of raising a child keeps climbing — up nearly 28% in just three years.For many families, these aren't discretionary expenses they can simply cut; they're the fundamentals required to set kids up for success — which is prompting more households to look for ways to manage rising costs.Home equity as a resource some families are consideringU.S. homeowners currently hold a near-record $34.9 trillion in home equity. For many individual homeowners, that translates into hundreds of thousands of dollars of value built up in a home — value that's real, but not easily converted into cash for a childcare bill or tuition payment.Rising costs are a widely reported source of financial pressure for homeowners. A survey of 1,000 U.S. homeowners found that a majority reported feeling moderately to extremely financially stressed, with rising homeownership costs cited as a top concern. Separately, mortgage rate lock-in has become a factor in homeowners' decisions to stay put: more than half of homeowners surveyed said there's no mortgage rate that would make them comfortable selling this year, according to Bankrate.Selling isn't the only way to access home equity. Homeowners who don't want to sell or take on a new monthly payment have a few options, including home equity loans, HELOCs, cash-out refinances, and a newer category of product known as a home equity investment (sometimes called a home equity agreement). With a home equity investment, a homeowner receives a lump sum of cash in exchange for a share of the home's future value, without monthly payments; the arrangement is settled — through refinancing, a loan, savings, or a home sale — within a set term, often up to 10 years.As with any financing option, a home equity investment carries costs and trade-offs, and it isn't the right fit for every homeowner. Families weighing whether to tap their equity to cover childcare, tuition, or other rising costs typically compare these options against a home equity loan or HELOC and consult a financial, tax, or legal professional to determine what best fits their situation.This story was produced by Hometap and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Deere bringing 375+ employees back to QC facilities Hundreds of employees are being called back to work at John Deere facilities in Moline and East Moline. A news release from the company said Deere plans to bring over 375 employees back to work across its Quad Cities factory operations. The company will return 150 employees to Seeding and Cylinder operations in Moline and [...]
	11 facts Americans might not know about Australia's capital 11 facts Americans might not know about Australia’s capitalAustralia's capital is historically layered and closer to the bush than most visitors might expect, as VisitCanberra reveals below. Here are 11 facts to bring you up to speed on Australia’s capital, Canberra.1. It's not Sydney Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra This surprises more Americans than Australians would like to admit. Australia's capital is Canberra, a juncture the Ngunnawal peoples have inhabited for over 20,000 years, long before the federal government commissioned it as a capital in the early 20th century. The name "Canberra" is thought to come from an Aboriginal word for "meeting place." In 1908, the Australian government selected the site as a neutral ground between Sydney and Melbourne, where the planned Australian Capital Territory (ACT) would be built. Planners designed the street grid, the parliament, the museums and the lake from scratch, which is part of why Canberra looks and feels like nowhere else in Australia. 2. A woman—Frank Lloyd Wright’s first employee—designed it, but almost no one knew for a centuryWhen married Chicago architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney Griffin entered the international competition to design Australia's new capital in 1912, they submitted as a team. Their entry won, but only Walter's name was on it. Marion—who could draft such excellent drawings that Frank Lloyd Wright himself once tried to take credit for them—made sure their bid stood out. However, she omitted her name from the entry, worried a female name would discredit the work. "Her contributions and story were actively written out,” said Sita Sargeant, founder of She Shapes History, a walking tour company that spotlights women's contributions to Australia’s past. “They didn't attach her name to the competition entry because of the assumption that if a woman's name was attached, it wouldn't be taken seriously." Marion Mahoney Griffin is now recognized as one of the most significant figures in the city's founding, a correction that took the better part of a hundred years. 3. Canberra is known as ‘the bush capital’ for good reason Canberra sits inside a valley ringed by mountain ranges, and the boundary between city and bushland is as organic as the 20 varieties of native eucalyptus growing throughout the territory. Just 40 minutes from the city center, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve has operated as a nature reserve site since 1936. It covers nearly 5,500 hectares and borders Namadgi National Park in the northern tip of the Australian Alps. "In a big city, you might visit Sydney or Melbourne and spend 40 minutes stuck in traffic," said Jessica Ward, manager of the Tidbinbilla Visitor Center. "In Canberra, you can spend that same 40 minutes in a car, and you're going to be out in the middle of the Australian bush." That short drive puts visitors face-to-face with platypus, koalas, kangaroos and critically endangered species, says Ward. “We've got some of the obvious Australian animals that everybody knows and loves,” she says. Kangaroos, wallabies, potoroos and bandicoots roam wild behind predator-proof fencing that keeps foxes and feral cats out. Ward also considers Tidbinbilla among the best places in Australia to see a platypus. 4. The endangered rock wallaby is Canberra's official emblem VisitCanberra The southern brush-tailed rock wallaby, a small marsupial native to Australia's eastern mountain ranges, is the official mammal emblem of the ACT. That means it holds the same symbolic status for the territory that the bald eagle does for the United States. This is an unlikely honor for a species on the brink: The wallaby has not been spotted in the wild in the ACT since the 1950s, and fewer than 40 wild wallabies are believed to survive in the country. Tidbinbilla runs the only local breeding program working to keep the species alive, alongside similar programs for the northern corroboree frog—which Ward calls “gorgeous”—and the Canberra grassland earless dragon, two other critically endangered animals. “We're helping to build a genetically strong population as well so that they can thrive out in the wild where they belong,” says Ward. 5. Canberra has four seasonsAs a four-season climate, Canberra changes character across the seasons, with wildflowers blooming in Australia’s spring, from September through November. The city bursts to life with over a million blooms during the Floriade festival in Commonwealth Park. And in the summer, Ward says the long sunny days produce grass that’s “just golden on the hills,” while the native orchids are in bloom all around. During mountain hikes in autumn, visitors can spot fungi while snow-capped peaks become visible from the valley floor in winter. “The blue skies of a Canberra winter are unbeatable,” said Ward. “It's just breathtaking to see the valley ringed by the snow-capped mountains” 6. Canberra has stargazing stops close to the city VisitCanberra Unlike in most densely populated capital cities shrouded in light pollution, constellations twinkle with surprising clarity in the bush capital, making Canberra one of Australia’s best urban astronomy destinations. Mount Stromlo Observatory, about 20 minutes up the road from Canberra’s Central Business District, hosts regular public stargazing sessions for visitors who want to extend their time outside the city. Through the observatory’s telescopes, visitors can spot Jupiter’s moons, distant galaxies and nebulae otherwise invisible to the naked eye, all with the guidance of knowledgeable astronomers after dark. The site is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and during the daytime, guests can explore the Heritage Trail lined with 11 interpretive signs that recount the story of the observatory’s 1928 origins. For stargazing experiences beyond the observatory, tourists can join evening tours along the Murrumbidgee River, or simply look up in admiration while camping out in the bush. 7. Secret suffragette colors are hidden in Parliament's rose garden Near Canberra’s Australian Parliament House, the Centenary Women’s Suffrage Fountain is easy to pass by without a second glance. A low, tiled installation, it looks, at first, almost like a decorative stop on the way to the Old Parliament House Gardens, with glossy blue and green squares forming a mosaic. But upon a closer look, those tiles actually outline a timeline of milestones for women in Australian federal politics, marking the dawn of the suffrage movement that ensured women could be seen and heard in government. The colors—green, white and violet—carry a coded message tied to the suffragette movement. "It's in the colors of the suffragettes. The green, white and violet is a very sneaky acronym for ‘Give Women Votes,’” explained Sargeant. “It's this beautiful timeline of the first women in federal politics and government.” 8. The cultural attractions are all free Andy Austin for VisitCanberra Like the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., Canberra's major cultural attractions—the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library of Australia, the National Museum of Australia and more—charge no admission. "The government very early on designated that free access to the national collections is a core part of what we do," said Dr. Nick Mitzevich, director of the National Gallery of Australia. “At times, there are charges for special exhibitions, but you can experience all of the cultural collections for free in Australia.” Furthermore, nearly all of those cultural attractions sit within roughly a one-mile radius, within the National Triangle along Lake Burley Griffin. 9. The National Gallery holds the largest collection of American art outside of America American visitors might be surprised at how much American art they recognize while they are in Canberra. “The National Gallery holds the largest collection of American art outside of America,” says Nick Mitzevich. He explained that the gallery began collecting in the 1970s because of Australia’s close ties to the U.S. “We have iconic works by American artists,” he adds, highlighting Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles, which the gallery acquired in 1973. 10. The Australian Parliament building is underground (on purpose) VisitCanberra Most of Australia's Parliament House is buried beneath a grassy hill. To American eyes, accustomed to the neoclassical grandeur of Washington’s federal buildings, that might make it appear invisible. But an Australian may tell you that's exactly the point. "It was a symbolic assertion that the people, the landscape and the mechanics of governance are one," Mitzevich muses about the Parliament building’s design. The boldest architectural statements in Canberra, he explains, were reserved for the cultural attractions. "The National Gallery’s architecture is quite radical," he says. Designed by the visionary Cole Madigan, Mitzevich calls it an "extraordinary brutalist temple" of concrete, glass and mirror-finished steel. “It was, from the very beginning, planned to be a provocative statement about the modernity of culture in Australia,” Mitzevich explained. "There’s no 19th-century facade. No classical Greek columns. It asserts a modernity that is very, very bold.” Mitzevich added that the choice was fitting for Canberra, a comparatively young capital, formally designated as such only in 1913. The choice to emphasize cultural attractions over government buildings might defy a person’s preconceived notions of what a federal district is meant to do. “That is one of the interesting things about Canberra,” he said. “The mechanics of governance are subtle, while the cultural presence is bold.” In that way, Sergeant says a visit to Canberra “takes you deeper” than other experiences in Australia. “You will come away really understanding the place.”11. Women in Canberra were cracking wartime codes in a building that's now a bike shed As a political city, Canberra has an undercurrent of espionage, with an extra dash of feminism. During World War II, young single women worked in a small bunker-like building next to one of Canberra’s earliest government offices. Known as the Cable Girls, they decoded and encoded messages for the Prime Minister's office. Because of Australia’s marriage bar—a policy that required women in the public service to resign once they married—many of these women had few career options, and this often became their last job before retirement. "They were seeing and knowing what was happening during World War II before anyone else in Canberra and before the Prime Minister," Sargeant said. “They had such a profound impact on the war.” The building has since been converted to a bike shed, its history almost entirely erased. Canberra might not be the city you expect, but that’s exactly the point. Between its bushland edges, hidden histories and distinct cultural heartbeat, Australia’s capital fascinates the curious traveler. Visitors might come for the politics, but they stay for the platypuses and the Pollocks. This story was produced by VisitCanberra and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Quad City Arts' Riverssance Festival of Fine Art will return to Village of East Davenport A two-day art festival will feature more than 75 artists, live music, food, family activities and the presentation of the 2026 Harley Award, according to a news release. Quad City Arts’ Riverssance Festival of Fine Art returns to Lindsay Park in the Village of East Davenport on Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20, bringing [...]
	Co-parenting? How to create healthier digital boundaries across two homes Co-parenting? How to create healthier digital boundaries across two homes“Mom lets me use my phone at night. Why can’t I here?” If you’re co-parenting, you’ve likely heard some version of this, and it rarely leads to a simple answer.One household allows late-night scrolling. The other says phones get turned off at nine. One parent says yes to social media. The other isn’t ready.In these situations, the child is caught in the middle and parents are left wondering: Am I being too strict, or not strict enough? Parenting coach Bea Moise, who works with families navigating divorce and shared custody, says getting two households aligned on anything is difficult — especially when it comes to technology.Moise encourages parents to focus on alignment and emotional safety. Trying to control every rule across two households often creates more conflict than consistency, she says. What matters most is that children experience clarity, support and stability in at least one home Verizon reports.Why screen time consistency and digital boundaries matter across two homesDifferent rules about devices and social media don’t just create behavioral issues; they can create emotional confusion.When faced with conflicting expectations, kids may:Feel caught in the middleBecome unsure which rules matterHide apps or devicesFeel pressured to align with one parentHow Moise recommends handling differences in screen time rulesWhen screen time rules don’t matchYou don’t need identical schedules, but large differences in screen time can create confusion and tension.Moise recommends aligning with co-parents on:What time devices turn off at nightDevice-free times and spaces, like mealsIf weekend rules are different than weekdaysWhat to say if your child pushes back“Different homes can have different rules. In this house, this is what helps your brain and body rest.”When you don’t agree on social mediaThis is one of the most common conflicts. If you can’t agree on when your child is ready, Moise suggests starting with:Which platforms are off-limitsWhat rules apply once access is givenWhat happens if those rules are brokenWhen you don’t agree on device rulesA child may “own” a phone, but each home still sets the rules for how devices are used. When expectations clash, it can lead to increased anxiety, mood changes and sleep disruption.Moise suggests this simple guideline: The device belongs to you, but the rules belong to the home you’re in.When devices blur boundaries between co-parentsSometimes, parent behavior with tech can be confusing or intrusive for kids. For example, some co-parents run into situations like:The other parent texting through the child’s phoneLocation tracking without clear agreementChildren being asked to pass messagesMoise suggests that co-parents align on this: Any communication with a child’s device should support their safety, not be used to manage or monitor the other parent.When texts between co-parents aren’t collaborativeNot every co-parenting relationship is highly collaborative, and that’s real. In parallel parenting situations — where parents keep things separate and limit interaction — communication may be limited, but baseline agreements around digital safety still matter.Focus on:Short, logistics-based communicationShared tools like calendars or school portalsAvoiding emotional conversations over textA simple rule: If the message doesn’t support a child’s well-being, it doesn’t need to be sent.How to create a digital co-parenting planMoise recommends creating a written digital co-parenting agreement so expectations remain clear as children move between households. Whether families use an existing family technology agreement or create one of their own, she says the goal is consistency rather than identical rules.Technology will continue to evolve. Apps will change. Platforms will come and go. And children will continue to grow and take their place in this world. But Moise says children will remember how safe, supported and understood they felt as they moved between two homes.This article was produced by Verizon’s Parenting in a Digital World and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	The $400,000 home is disappearing from some US markets The $400,000 home is disappearing from some US marketsSix years ago, homes listed under $400,000 made up most of the market across major U.S. cities. Today, they make up less than 30%.Real estate portal Movoto by Lower recently analyzed active single-family home listings across U.S. cities with populations of at least 100,000 to see how much inventory remains below five price points: $250,000, $300,000, $350,000, $400,000 and $500,000.Key TakeawaysThe supply of homes under $400,000 has collapsed over the last six years. Among cities analyzed in 2020 and 2026, the median share of listings under $400,000 fell from 72.6% in 2020 to 28% in 2026.Some cities saw especially steep inventory declines. In Hesperia, California, 89.5% of listings were under $400,000 in 2020. Today, just 7% are.By 2026, some cities had no listings under $400,000. Ten major cities had no active listings below $400,000 in Movoto’s May 2026 analysis, and nine of them were in California. Coral Springs, Florida, was the only exception.Sub-$400,000 homes still dominate some Midwest markets. In 2026, more than 94% of listings in Warren, Detroit, and Lansing (Michigan) and Cleveland and Toledo (Ohio) are under $400,000.The decline extends across price points. From 2020 to 2026, the share of listings under $250,000, $300,000, $350,000, $400,000 and $500,000 all fell. Movoto by Lower The biggest shift happened at the $400,000 price point.Among 228 cities compared directly between 2020 and 2026, the median share of homes listed under $400,000 fell from 72.6% to 28%.The median share of active listings priced under $400,000 today is just 35.7% across the major U.S. cities analyzed in the report.The decline in lower-priced inventory follows years of rising home prices, with increased buyer demand helping drive the sharp run-up during the COVID-19 pandemic. But some of the biggest changes shown in the analysis happened in markets that once offered a more affordable alternative to nearby high-cost areas.In Southern California, buyers increasingly moved inland in search of more affordable housing and space. Hesperia, Victorville and San Bernardino, three of the five cities with the largest declines in sub-$400,000 inventory, are all in San Bernardino County. Phoenix and Las Vegas similarly became popular destinations for buyers searching outside their existing metro during the pandemic, including buyers coming from Los Angeles and San Francisco.Where Homes Under $400,000 Have Fallen the MostThe shift is especially clear in cities where homes under $400,000 once made up most of the market. Movoto by Lower Hesperia, California, saw the largest change in the analysis. Nearly 9 in 10 active listings there were priced under $400,000 in 2020. By 2026, that was down to just 7%.Victorville, California, saw a similar shift. In 2020, 96.2% of its listings were under $400,000. Today, fewer than 1 in 5 are.North Las Vegas also went from a market where nearly every listing was under $400,000 to one where less than a quarter are.Where Homes Under $400,000 Are Hardest to FindIn some cities, finding a home listed under $400,000 has become especially difficult.Ten major cities had no active single-family listings under $400,000 in May 2026. Nine were in California: Anaheim, Corona, Riverside, San Francisco, Huntington Beach, Fremont, Fontana, Irvine and Tracy. Coral Springs, Florida, was the only city outside the state. Movoto by Lower Five of those cities had at least some listings under $400,000 in 2020. Coral Springs saw the biggest change, falling from 31.8% of listings under $400,000 in 2020 to none in May 2026. Fontana and Riverside also saw notable declines, from 26.5% and 20.7%, respectively, to zero.The other five cities were already starting from little to no sub-$400,000 inventory in 2020. Huntington Beach, Anaheim, Fremont, and Irvine had none, while just 0.4% of listings in San Francisco fell below that price.That doesn’t mean homes under $400,000 never come on the market in these cities, but none of the active listings included in the May 2026 analysis fell below that price.Where Homes Under $400,000 Are Still CommonThe picture looks very different in parts of the Midwest. Movoto by Lower In Warren, Michigan, nearly every active listing is priced under $400,000. Detroit isn’t far behind at 96.4% of listings under $400,000.Cleveland and Toledo in Ohio and Lansing, Michigan, also stand out, with more than 94% of active listings priced below $400,000.Lower-Priced Inventory Has Shrunk Across the BoardThe decline isn’t limited to homes under $400,000.Movoto also looked at listings under $250,000, $300,000, $350,000 and $500,000. Across cities analyzed in both 2020 and 2026, the share of listings below every price point fell. Movoto by Lower The $400,000 mark saw the largest percentage-point decline of the five price points analyzed.At $350,000, the typical share fell from 58% to 14.8%. At $300,000, it dropped from 42.4% to just 5.4%.Even at $500,000, the share fell from 84.6% in 2020 to 55.7% in 2026.Taken together, the numbers show how much the mix of homes available for sale has changed in just six years. While the size of that shift varies considerably by city, listings at lower price points make up a much smaller share of the market today than they did in 2020.What This Means for HomebuyersFor buyers shopping with a $400,000 budget, their options can look dramatically different depending on where they search. In some cities, there are few, if any, homes listed below that price. In others, $400,000 still covers most of the market.Higher mortgage rates add another challenge. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 3.15% in late May 2020, according to Freddie Mac. As of Sept. 3, 2026, it was 6.71%. That means buyers are not only choosing from a smaller share of listings under $400,000 in many markets, but also facing higher borrower costs that can affect their monthly mortgage payment.The difference between cities is also significant. In Detroit, Cleveland, and Warren, Michigan, more than 90% of active listings are still under $400,000. In the 10 cities with no listings below $400,000 in the analysis, buyers with that budget may need to expand their search or consider a different market.Data & MethodologyMovoto analyzed active single-family residential listings from May of each year from 2020 through 2026.The analysis focused on U.S. cities with populations of at least 100,000, based on the 2024 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimate, and measured the share of active listings priced under $250,000, $300,000, $350,000, $400,000 and $500,000.Cities were required to have at least 100 active listings in a given year to be included in that year’s analysis. Comparisons between 2020 and 2026 include 228 cities with at least 100 listings in both years.The 2026-only findings include 281 qualifying cities. Because the number of qualifying cities differs, those figures should not be directly compared with the fixed 228-city 2020-to-2026 analysis.This analysis reflects active listing prices rather than final sale prices and measures the availability of homes at different price points. The thresholds are not intended to define whether a home is affordable for an individual buyer.This story was produced by Movoto by Lower and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Wet week ahead for the Quad Cities We'll see a daily chance of showers and storms this week with moderate to heavy rain likely, especially tonight and Tuesday. Temperatures will be close to normal for this time of the year. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Rock Island County real estate transactions for September 13, 2026 Here are homes sales and property sales in Rock Island County.
	New coffee shop, wings and catfish restaurant opens, Two Sisters Restaurant new chapter, florist and boutique opens, and more Quad-Cities business news AWAKE Coffee opens third location, new wings and catfish restaurant, florist and boutique opens, and more Quad-Cities business news and more Quad-Cities business news.
	Quad-Cities Popular Astronomy Club: Taking a solar eclipse cruise Total solar eclipse viewing from a cruise ship off the northern coast of Spain in the best possible viewing spot.
	The powerful millionaires hiding in plain sight They own car dealerships, law firms, dental practices, and restaurant chains. Collectively, these overlooked business owners hold far more wealth than the Forbes 400 — and wield considerable political power.
	The Emmys are Monday night. Here's how to watch Noah Kahan will perform "Bridge Over Troubled Water" as part of the In Memoriam segment.
	New Carlo Rovelli book challenges science's understanding of reality and the universe In his latest book, the world-renowned physicist draws on science and philosophy to explore the notion that the university and reality are fully knowable.
	ChatGPT has a feature to help those in crisis. But where can you find it? Earlier this year, OpenAI launched a feature on ChatGPT meant to help people at risk of suicide connect with someone they trust for support. But its setup may prove challenging to someone in crisis.
	Indonesia searches for 129 people missing after ferry capsizes Indonesian authorities intensified on Monday a search for people missing after a ferry overturned in bad weather in the Java Sea. At least six passengers were killed and 129 people are still missing.
	Indonesia searches for 129 people missing after ferry capsizes in the Java Sea Indonesian authorities intensified on Monday a search for people missing after a ferry overturned in bad weather in the Java Sea. At least six passengers were killed and 129 people are still missing.
	Russian drone hits train near Ukraine-Poland border soon after dignitaries passed through A Russian drone struck a train near the Ukraine-Poland border shortly after senior visiting officials, including the former prime ministers of the U.K. and Sweden, passed through.
	Amazon suspends use of 21 Air, cargo carrier whose plane careened off Miami runway Amazon said it's decided to pause operations with 21 Air as the investigation into the crash continues. North Carolina-based 21 had flown packages for Amazon since 2024.
	Geneseo’s Jaydn Shipman wins Spotlight Athlete of the Week The junior came up with a play in Geneseo’s win against Rock Island, recovering a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown.
Sunday, September 13th, 2026
	Ted Nugent to take the stage at The Rust Belt, East Moline According the website for The Rust Belt, East Moline, Ted Nugent will play a concert in the Quad Cities on Friday, Sept. 18. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets start at $74.94 and are available here. Rocker and actor Kurt Deimer, whose new album is "A Grog Is Born" will [...]
	‘We need to do something for our officers’: 1st Back the Blue Flight visits D.C. Over 170 past and present police officers, their families, and friends flew from Moline to Washington D.C. to honor the past and inspire the future of law enforcement.
	Score Big on Game Day with Winning Tailgate Recipes (Feature Impact) Football, family, friends and food are a winning combination during tailgating season, especially if your recipe game is locked in. Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd in the stadium parking lot or putting together a savory plate to enjoy while you chill on the sofa, these recipes bring plenty of flavor and keep the energy going until the final whistle. A main course of Grilled Chicken Kebabs served alongside Steakhouse Hasselback Potatoes and Simple Salami Sliders will fuel you and your crew all the way from the pre-game festivities to the after party. Visit Culinary.net to find more recipes to inspire your game plan. Fire Up the Grill for Mouthwatering Chicken Kebabs Tailgating and grilling go together like touchdowns and victory dances, and some of the best game-day recipes are the ones you can make well ahead of kickoff so you aren't rushing around to get ready. These sweet-and-smoky Grilled Chicken Kebabs can be prepped and marinated up to 8 hours in advance so all you need to do is pull them out of the fridge and get them to the grill. With lean protein from the chicken plus vitamins and fiber from a generous amount of bright, colorful veggies, this recipe is a score for more than your taste buds. Grilled Chicken Kebabs Recipe adapted from Dinner at the Zoo Prep time: 20 minutes Marinating time: 1 hour Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 Marinade: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or other vinegar 1/8 cup soy sauce 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon minced garlic salt, to taste pepper, to taste Kebabs: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 small zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices 1 small yellow squash, cut into 1-inch slices 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces 4 wooden skewers 1 tablespoon chopped parsley To make marinade: In large bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. To make kebabs: In bowl, toss chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, squash and red onion with marinade. Cover and refrigerate 1-8 hours. Soak wooden skewers in cold water at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken pieces and vegetables onto skewers, alternating ingredients. Cook 5-7 minutes on each side, or until chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. Fuel Your Tailgate Team with a Steakhouse Side If you're looking for a tasty twist on tailgating tradition that'll give you as much energy in the stands as the athletes on the field, look for a steakhouse-worthy side dish that's loaded with complex carbohydrates and fueling flavor. These Steakhouse Hasselback Potatoes, loaded with caramelized onions and crispy bacon, feature Wisconsin Russets - a complex carbohydrate that plays an important role in the body by providing energy to cells, the brain and certain parts of the kidney. As a healthier choice than simple carbs, which are composed of sugars that break down faster in your system, potatoes are also a good source of vitamin B6, potassium, copper, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, dietary fiber and pantothenic acid, making them a superstar selection on game day. Tackle your next tailgate with more delicious recipes by visiting eatwisconsinpotatoes.com. Steakhouse Hasselback Potatoes Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 90 minutes Servings: 8 Hasselback Potatoes: 4 Wisconsin Russets (about 1 pound each) 4 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons kosher salt Caramelized Onions: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2.2 pounds yellow onions, sliced thin 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/4 cup cognac or brandy (optional) To Plate: 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese 12 ounces hickory smoked bacon, cooked and cut into 2-inch pieces 1/2 cup sour cream 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped Preheat oven to 400 F. To make Hasselback potatoes: Using vegetable brush, wash potatoes. Dry well and place on cutting board. Arrange handles of two wooden spoons so they are alongside potatoes to prevent knife from slicing all the way through. Make several cuts down each potato about 1/4 inch apart. Repeat with remaining potatoes and arrange on baking sheet fitted with wire rack. Drizzle with olive oil, making sure some oil is in slices. Sprinkle salt on each potato. Bake 90 minutes, or until potatoes are crispy on outside, fluffy in center and internal temperature is 205 F. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. To make caramelized onions: In heavy-bottomed shallow pan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced onions and season with salt. Continue to cook, stirring regularly until onions are deep brown and caramelized. Deglaze pan with cognac or brandy, if desired, scraping caramelized bits off bottom of pan. Remove from heat and set aside. To assemble, sprinkle potatoes with cheese, about 1/4 cup per spud, ensuring some cheese is in potato slices. Place cooked bacon pieces in some slices. Return potatoes to oven for about 5 minutes, just long enough to heat potatoes slightly and melt cheese. Place potatoes on serving platter and garnish with caramelized onions, sour cream and chopped chives. Slide Into the End Zone with Salami A tailgating MVP recipe is easy to assemble, easy to eat and packed with flavor - and these Simple Salami Sliders check every box. Soft slider buns, melty cheese and savory salami are baked in a buttery sauce for craveable bites that will disappear as soon as you pass the basket around. Switch up the sauce, use a different cheese or add your favorite extra toppings to customize your perfect slider. Simple Salami Sliders Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy" Servings: 4-6 1 package slider buns 8 slices Swiss cheese 8 slices salami 8 slices ham or other deli meat 1 stick butter, melted 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder everything bagel seasoning (optional) Heat oven to 350 F. Halve slider buns, creating top and bottom portions. Set top portion aside, leaving bottom portion in original container. Place bottom portion and container in baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer Swiss cheese, salami and ham then cover with top buns. Mix melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Parmesan cheese, onion powder and garlic powder. Pour over sliders. Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes then remove foil, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired, and bake, uncovered, 10 minutes. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (kebabs)
	Stroke Recovery Starts Early and Continues for a Lifetime (Feature Impact) When it comes to stroke, time matters. Recognizing the warning signs and calling 911 quickly can help with receiving time-sensitive, life-saving treatment. Recovery should begin early, too. Having a stroke can divide life into a stark before and after, affecting many aspects of daily life. While it's easy to focus on the things a stroke can take away, it's important to remember there's life after stroke. Recovery isn't just about relearning skills. It's about adapting to new challenges, finding purpose in a different reality and continuing to move forward. Navigating the aftermath of a stroke means balancing short-term and long-term plans. Once medically stable, rehabilitation should ideally begin within 48 hours, according to the 2026 Guideline for Adult Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery from the American Stroke Association. Recovery doesn't have a fixed end. Meaningful progress can continue for months or years after survivors leave the hospital or complete formal therapy. "Stroke rehabilitation is complicated," said Lorie Gage Richards, Ph.D., FAHA, volunteer chair of the new guideline, associate professor at the University of Utah and an occupational therapist. "Each person faces a different set of challenges and care should be personalized to fit each person's needs. The goal is to help individuals gain as much independence as possible to perform everyday activities while improving their overall quality of life." Approximately 800,000 people have a stroke each year in the U.S, according to the American Heart Association's 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics. Whether you're navigating recovery yourself or supporting someone you love, connecting with a coordinated healthcare team is an important first step. Ask about a comprehensive assessment, develop a rehabilitation plan based on what matters to you and set small, achievable goals throughout recovery. Building Skills and Independence After a stroke, familiar parts of a daily routine may take more effort or require a new approach. A rehabilitation team can assess how stroke has affected movement, communication, thinking, vision, hearing and other abilities then develop a plan based on individual needs and goals. Recovery doesn't look the same for everyone. For one person, a meaningful goal may be dressing independently. For others, it could be returning to work, driving safely or participating in favorite activities. Start with manageable goals, evaluate progress and reassess the plan as needs change. Understanding the Invisible Impacts Some of the most challenging parts of recovery may be the ones others can't see. For instance, you might lose confidence or sense of identity, have trouble concentrating or experience anxiety or depression. Along with mental and emotional changes, you may notice ongoing physical symptoms like pain, difficulty sleeping, changes in sexual function or difficulty with bladder control. Invisible challenges don't have to stay that way. Ask your healthcare team to assess your physical and emotional health, including depression and anxiety, during the hospital stay and throughout recovery. Speaking up about new or changing symptoms can help identify appropriate treatment and support. Navigating Changing Relationships When you have a stroke, your life isn't the only one that changes. A partner, parent or friend may suddenly take on new responsibilities, making honest conversations about support especially important. Family responsibilities may also look different. Parenting young children, supporting loved ones or balancing work and family can bring new challenges during recovery. Give yourself permission to slow down, accept care and connect with the people who matter most. Finding Purpose and Redefining Success Recreation, hobbies, social connections and other meaningful activities are an important part of recovery and can help people regain confidence, participate in their communities and improve quality of life. That may mean returning to music, art, exercise or time with friends. It could also mean modifying favorite activities, discovering new interests or connecting with a support group. Life after stroke may look different, but different doesn't mean less meaningful. Recovery isn't measured by how closely someone returns to who they were before. It's about finding new ways to pursue what matters most and continuing to move forward. Learn more about recognizing stroke, preparing for rehabilitation and adjusting to life after stroke by visiting Stroke.org. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
	Treat Guests to 'Grape' Fall Get-Togethers (Feature Impact) Fall gatherings take many shapes, from special occasions with loved ones to neighborhood soirees and glamorous get-togethers. For hosts, these opportunities for entertaining to the fullest call for fresh, flavorful meals, drinks and ingredients that complement a season worth celebrating. Whether you're serving a showstopping main course, sharing small plates or playing bartender (or all three), an option like California grapes can be the versatile ingredient that elevates both dishes and drinks alike. Their juicy burst of flavor and pop of color bring fall recipes to life, such as roasted chicken, lettuce wraps or cocktails. You can also try freezing them to replace ice cubes in drinks, serving as a topping for crostini or simply placing in glasses or bowls to enjoy as a healthy, fresh snack while breaking the ice and waiting for the meal to be served. To find more fall entertaining tips, tricks and recipes, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com. California Grape Shallot and Thyme Roasted Chicken Servings: 6 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds) 1 tablespoon butter, at room temperature 1 teaspoon sea salt 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme freshly ground pepper, to taste 2 cups red and black Grapes from California 1/3 cup finely chopped shallots 1/3 cup dry white wine fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional) Heat oven to 375 F. Rinse chicken and pat dry; place in 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Spread butter over surface of chicken and sprinkle with salt, thyme and pepper, to taste. Roast 45 minutes. Add grapes, shallots and wine to pan and roast 30-40 minutes, or until grapes are softening and thighs reach internal temperature of 165 F on meat thermometer. Remove from oven and tent with foil; let stand 15 minutes before carving. Place grapes, shallots and cooking juices in bowl and serve over slices of chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Nutritional information per serving: 260 calories; 29 g protein; 11 g carbohydrates; 9 g fat (31% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (3% calories from saturated fat); 90 mg cholesterol; 480 mg sodium; 1 g fiber. California Grape Beef Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps Servings: 6 Pickled Grapes: 1/3 cup unseasoned rice vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 1/2 cups Grapes from California, halved 2 tablespoons minced red onion Beef Bulgogi: 1/2 pound beef round or sirloin steak 1/3 cup bulgogi sauce, plus additional for serving (optional) 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil 12 larger hearts of romaine leaves, clean and dry snipped green onion tops To make pickled grapes: In small saucepan, stir vinegar, sugar, coriander seeds, mustard seeds and pepper flakes; bring to simmer. Remove from heat and stir to dissolve sugar; let cool to warm. Stir in grapes and onion and set aside to cool. Let stand 1 hour, stirring occasionally. To make beef bulgogi: Cut beef into small, bite-size strips. In medium bowl, stir 1/3 cup bulgogi sauce, vinegar and sesame oil then add beef. Let marinate 1 hour, stirring occasionally. In large skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Using slotted spoon or tongs, remove beef from marinade and add to skillet. Stir fry until beef is cooked through and golden brown, stirring constantly; let cool. To serve: Place equal amounts beef and pickled grapes in romaine leaves and sprinkle with green onions. Serve immediately with additional bulgogi sauce, if desired. Nutritional information per serving: 150 calories; 11 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 3.5 g fat (21% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 25 mg cholesterol; 65 mg sodium; 1 g fiber. California Grape and Tamarind Whiskey Smash Servings: 2 3/4 cup halved green Grapes from California ice 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) whiskey 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon tamarind paste bitters, to taste In medium bowl, muddle grapes until mashed and in small pieces. Transfer to two lowball glasses and add ice almost to top of glasses. In shaker or small bowl, combine whiskey, lemon juice and tamarind paste; shake or stir. Season with a few drops of bitters, to taste. Pour into glasses over grapes and stir briskly to chill and dilute slightly. Nutritional information per serving: 140 calories; 0 g protein; 11 g carbohydrates; 0 g fat (0% calories from fat); 0 g saturated fat (0% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 0 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
	Bridging the Gap Between Military Experience and Civilian Careers: 5 Tips for Veterans (Feature Impact) Every year, approximately 200,000 service men and women transition from military life to corporate America. Finding the right civilian career is a transition, but it's an opportunity to leverage military leadership and mission-driven talent. Traditional hiring processes often focus on conventional resumes, but forward-thinking organizations recognize military experience as a competitive advantage in today's workforce. The resilience, integrity and adaptability of America's veterans and military families make them uniquely positioned to drive growth and innovation in their communities. "Veterans bring unmatched discipline, adaptability and a results-driven mindset that directly translates to high-impact corporate careers," said Drew Matheson, senior director at Capital One's Commercial Bank and retired U.S. Army infantry officer. "While military experience doesn't always fit perfectly on a traditional paper resume, employers like Capital One who know how to decode these unique leadership skills are able to unlock an incredible pipeline of proven performers." To help transitioning service members successfully navigate this career pivot, military community leaders at Capital One offer these five essential tips for service members entering the civilian workforce: Start With What You've Already Earned Opportunity starts with preparation. Beyond the well-known Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can cover tuition, housing and books, transitioning service members can look into vocational rehab or the SkillBridge program, which allows them to do civilian internships during the last 180 days of service. Many employers also offer internal tuition reimbursement programs. Taking the time to proactively map out these benefits ensures you aren't leaving valuable opportunities or money on the table. Find Employers with Veteran Support Structures With almost half of veterans leaving their first post-military job within a year, according to research published by the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and VetAdvisor, finding the right culture and community is key to a successful transition. Look for employers with active veteran networks and dedicated mentorship. For example, Capital One's Salute Business Resource Group serves as a thriving internal community of more than 6,000 members, offering peer support, year-round professional development and mentorship for veterans, reservists and military spouses. Additionally, partner organizations like Hiring Our Heroes provide career workshops, fellowships and job fairs to ensure you're employment-ready from day one. Lean Into and Translate Your Soft Skills Veterans bring a distinct competitive advantage to the applicant pool. You should confidently lean into the cross-functional "soft skills" learned in the line of duty such as risk management, crisis resolution and building trust under high-pressure scenarios. The trick is translating these capabilities out of military jargon on your resume. Swap military terms like "NCOIC" for "Operations Manager" or "commanded" for "directed." To make this easier, look for military-friendly employers that employ dedicated military recruiters who specialize in decoding military resumes to align skills with the right roles. Prioritize Support for the Whole Family Military service is a family commitment, and the transition out of uniform affects everyone. Military spouses often face unique career hurdles, including frequent relocations and employment gaps. When evaluating employers, look for companies that offer holistic benefits and flexible structures. For example, Capital One, recognized by "U.S. Veterans Magazine" as a Top Veteran Employer and Top Military Spouse Employer, actively supports military spouses and families through dedicated spouse hiring initiatives and internal support mechanisms. Furthermore, look for organizations that support continued military training and active-duty leave, ensuring military associates never have to choose between their service and their careers. Build Your Civilian Network Early In the military, your network is built in. In the civilian world, you have to cultivate it. Long before your terminal leave begins, connect with veterans who work at companies you admire. Reach out for brief, 15-minute informational interviews to learn about their transition journeys rather than simply asking for a job. With more than 70% of civilian jobs filled through networking, according to estimates from Career Horizons, making organic connections early is a powerful tool for getting your foot in the door. To find additional resources and learn more about how to support the hiring of veterans and military spouses, visit CapitalOneCareers.com/Military. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Tinkerers This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.One of the most enduring of American characters is the tinkerer, that small-time amateur inventor who turns bits of…
	Clinton community holds No Data Center Concert People at the event signed multiple petitions that they hope get added as amendments to the latest ordinance draft.
	East Moline celebrates Mexican Independence Day with annual parade Proceeds support the League of United Latin American Citizens' college scholarship program.
	Attendees tag butterflies, learn about insect conservation at Nahant Marsh's annual Monarch Party Nahant Marsh held its 11th annual Monarch Party, teaching hundreds of attendees about the importance of insect conservation.
	Louisiana man accused of reaching 105 mph on I-80 A Louisiana man is facing multiple charges after troopers say he reached 105 mph on I-80 and ran from them Saturday night.
	Is there still time to keep the Bears in Illinois? The Chicago Bears may be looking at Indiana as its new home, but Arlington Heights is still fighting to keep the team in Illinois. Arlington Heights remains a primary option for the Chicago Bears stadium project. The Chicago Tribune reports the village has renewed a contract with lobbying firm Mac Strategies Group. The firm is [...]
	Bishop Hill honors settlers in unmarked graves with monument dedication As Bishop Hill celebrates 180 years since its founding, the historic village is honoring some of its earliest settlers with a new monument at the Bishop Hill Cemetery.
	River Bandits beat Dayton 4-0 in championship series game The Quad Cities River Bandits beat the Dayton Dragons Sunday night.
	Death Notice: Judith Roper A funeral service for Judith Marjorie Roper, 82, of Davenport, will be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, at the Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home, Davenport. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Eagle Grove. Mrs. Roper died Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026, at MercyOne-Genesis Medical Center, Davenport. Memorials may be made to the family to establish a memorial at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.hmdfuneralhome.com. A full obituary will appear in the Sept. 16 edition of The NSP.
	Trump downplays calls for AI slow down President Trump said there were "negative forces" predicting things that he says won't happen.
	Trump downplays calls for AI slowdown President Trump said there were "negative forces" predicting things that he says won't happen.
	Semi-trailer hauling meat burned down on I-80 near Geneseo A semi-trailer hauling meat burned down on I-80 near Geneseo Saturday afternoon.
	Quad Cities River Bandits to face Dayton in Championship series game The Quad Cities River Bandits will play the Dayton Dragons in the first game of the Midwest League championship series Sunday evening.
	Ascentra Credit Union: People before profit, community investment In this episode of Real Conversations in the QC, the cast discusses Ascentra Credit Union’s “People before profit” philosophy and community-first mission.
	Wisconsin congressman survives emergency plane landing, swims to safety Wisconsin Congressman Tom Tiffany escaped a sinking plane and swam to shallow water after an emergency landing in a lake. Tiffany and the pilot called 911 from on top of the plane.
	Man charged with sexually abusing two children tenders plea deal for court's consideration A Davenport man who abused two children, one for six years, has tendererd a plea deal for the court to consider.
	Breakfast Bankroll for week ending 9/11/26 Here's this week's update on retail prices for the breakfast staples of bacon, eggs and milk. This is the USDA's average price for a dozen of large Grade A eggs, a pound of bacon and a gallon of milk on January 20, 2025, compared to where the prices are now. To see the price, click [...]
	No easy answers for failure of United States to assimilate extreme jihadist people living in the country For 250 years, the United States has lived up to the poem inscribed on the Statue of Liberty that says, in part: Give me your tired, your poor,Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me. No other country on Earth comes close to the [...]
	U.S. - Canada trade war might be tested on the November ballot The United States' relationship with those neighbors in the the Great White North is struggling beyond complaints of 'get off my lawn.' Economic tension between the traditional allies doesn't seem to be subsiding. We will start with the trade war between the United States and Canada that's intensified in recent weeks. Both countries imposed stiff [...]
	Pritzker coy about presidential aspirations while optimistic Bears could stay in Illinois We find ourselves 51 days away from counting the votes in the midterm election. This morning we focus on the Illinois race for governor with Democratic incumbent JB Pritzker seeking a third term with challenges from Republican Darren Bailey and independent Collin Corbett. There isn't any recent polling of this race but JB Pritzker is [...]
	Actor Tatyana Ali is advocating for Black and Indigenous maternal health Actor Tatyana Ali says her healing journey after a traumatic childbirth has inspired her advocacy for Black maternal health, including support for midwives, doulas and other birth workers.
	Cesar Toscano: How my grandmother's dementia impacted my mom and our family Education Reporter Cesar Toscano writes about how his grandmother's dementia impacted his mother and family for eight years.
	BBB Scam Alert: Grandparents, don't get sacked by fake football tickets BBB Scam Tracker warns grandparents buying seats for themselves or as a gift for a grandchild are being urged to slow down before clicking "buy."
	Indonesian passenger ship overturns, sparking search for about 130 missing Indonesian rescuers said about 130 passengers and crew are missing after a ferry carrying more than 240 people sank in bad weather in the Java Sea on Sunday.
	Indonesian passenger ship overturns, sparking search for at least 129 missing Indonesian rescuers said about 130 passengers and crew are missing after a ferry carrying more than 240 people sank in bad weather in the Java Sea on Sunday.
	How a young woman became an ISIS bride — and then an informant, helping save others A young Canadian mother shares her memories of being an ISIS bride, and her harrowing escape from the extremist group.
	Our QC Crime Watch: Fraud expert tells how to keep your money safe: Episode 80 Watch crime reporter Sharon Wren talk about crime and courts in the latest episode of the Our Quad Cities Crime Watch Podcast. In this episode Sharon talks with Matt Mortvedt, who is the bureau chief of the Fraud Bureau at the Iowa Insurance Division, where he leads investigations into insurance and securities fraud, and senior [...]
	Young Cambridge museum director receives T. rex skull replica The Cambridge Natural History Museum has received a new addition to its collection: a half-scale replica of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skull donated by Acme Design, Inc., according to a news release. The replica is modeled after a specimen at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Museum founder and curator Anderson Taylor first met members [...]
	Davenport Speedway races into the past Davenport Speedway raced into the past Saturday for a great night of old-time racing. The track played host to the Mississippi Valley Vintage Race Car Association’s Hawkeye Futurity. The Hawkeye Futurity featured vintage racecars, including Caged Sprints, Non-Caged Sprints, Midgets, Super Modifieds, Jalopies, and Vintage Late Models. Racers from five states took part in the [...]
Saturday, September 12th, 2026
	Playtime This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Between 1933 and 1939, the entire Upper Mississippi from St. Louis to St. Paul changed personalities, courtesy of the…
	Bettendorf native Caden Buhr lifts Iowa to win over Iowa State in Cy-Hawk game Bettendorf native Caden Buhr made the game winning field goal with 15 seconds to play giving #21 Iowa a 16-13 win over Iowa State.
	Rock Island Police Department holds career day The Rock Island Police Department held a career day, providing resources and demonstrations for people interested in law enforcement.
	Man severely injured in East Moline firework incident A 41-year-old man was severely injured when a firework exploded. According to a release from the Rock Island County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a home in the 16000 block of Route 84 North in East Moline September 12 at approximately 2:30 p.m. for reports of a firework incident resulting in severe injuries. The victim [...]
	Man airlifted to hospital after firework explodes A man suffered serious injuries after a firework exploded in his hand Saturday afternoon in East Moline.
	Hawkeye Marching Band member honored at Cy-Hawk game The Iowa Marching Band member who collapsed at the home-opener football game and died is being honored at the Cy-Hawk game on Saturday.
	Iowa State University Marching Band to honor Derek Phillips The Iowa State University Cyclone Marching Band is showing their support for Hawkeye Marching Band member Derek Phillips.
	Eldridge fire department holds 9/11 memorial stair climb The climbers ascend the equivalent of 110 stories, which represents the steps that first responders took at the World Trade Center on 9/11.
	Traffic at standstill after semi truck trailer fire on I-80 near Geneseo KWQC has reached out to officials for more information.
	Programming Note: News at 6 p.m. to stream on KWQC+ The news at 6 p.m. will be livestreamed on KWQC+ Wednesday evening.
	Alien Terrorist Removal Court deports legal US resident to Afghanistan in first-ever case Nazira Haji Zada, a lawful permanent resident, conceded to being an "alien terrorist." It marks the first case in the Alien Terrorist Removal Court.
	Moline apartment fire remains under investigation A Friday night apartment fire in Moline remains under investigation, according to a news release from the Moline Fire Department. Shortly before 8:15 p.m., the Moline Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke inside an apartment complex on the 1200 block of 15th Street Place. The first arriving fire unit reached the scene [...]
	Operator of Davenport massage parlor tenders plea agreement for court's consideration The operator of one of the Asian Massage parlors that shuttered last year has tendered a plea agreement for the court to consider.
	New bill would restrict SNAP benefits in Illinois, other states A new law introduced in the House this month would add more restrictions to what types of food SNAP recipients can buy with their monthly benefits.
	YMCA Hubbell Waterman Complex boosts soccer participation in the Quad Cities The YMCA Hubbell Waterman Soccer Complex in downtown Davenport is introducing European‑style 5‑on‑5 soccer to the Quad Cities, offering league play, open sessions and rentals as interest in the sport continues to grow.
	Iowa Machine Shed to present Fall Family Festival Fall is coming to the farm at Iowa Machine Shed, and families are invited to the annual Fall Family Festival on Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 26-27 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at 7250 Northwest Blvd. Davenport. This free family event transforms the grounds of the Machine Shed at I-80 and Northwest Boulevard into a celebration of fall, complete [...]
	Moline Public Library seeks applicants for student trustee The Moline Public Library seeks applications for position of student trustee to serve an eight-month term on the Library Board of Trustees, a news release says. In its third year, this volunteer position provides a unique opportunity for students to participate in shaping the future of the Moline Public Library and enhancing its value to [...]
	Inside Iowa Politics: Why Sen. Grassley isn’t sure Americans would react today like they did on September 11, 2001 U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley said that he doesn't know that Americans would react the same way today like they did after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Monday, September 14th, 2026

Sunday, September 13th, 2026

Saturday, September 12th, 2026