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

Thursday, February 19th, 2026
	Illinois Extension offering mental health resources for farmers and their families Amid tariffs, climate change, and economic uncertainty, Illinois farmers and their families can find mental health support from the state’s land-grant institution.
	R&B stars consider two ways to serve an audience Two albums released the same day — Jill Scott's return from a long absence, and Brent Faiyaz's play for a mid-career pivot — offer opposing visions of artistic advancement in the genre.
	New federal rule could lower disability compensation for millions of veterans: VFW A federal rule change could lower disability compensation for millions of veterans, says the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
	100 acres burned during field fire About 100 acres burned during a field fire in Bureau County Wednesday afternoon.
	Democrats offer muted praise of Pritzker’s speech, Republicans dismiss ‘campaign’ rhetoric Reaction to Gov. JB Pritzker’s combined State of the State and fiscal year 2027 budget address fell largely along partisan lines as Democrats offered muted praise while Republicans dismissed his affordability message as campaign-style rhetoric.
	Sky Dine bringing new dining, beverage options to Quad Cities International Airport Quad Cities International Airport’s Board of Commissioners unanimously selected Sky Dine of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, as the new concessionaire for food and beverage services at the airport. Sky Dine, a family-owned company with decades of experience in traveler-focused hospitality, will introduce new concepts and improved service as part of the airport’s ongoing terminal improvements. [...]
	Northern Illinois native, Team USA playing for women’s ice hockey gold Northern Illinois native Tessa Janecke and Team USA are playing Canada for gold on Thursday.
	Baby chicks link certain sounds with shapes, just like humans do A surprising new study shows that baby chickens react the same way that humans do when tested for something called the "bouba-kiki effect," which has been linked to the emergence of language.
	Enjoy Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas in Bishop Hill Crossroads Cultural Connections is hosting internationally acclaimed duo Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas on Tuesday, February 24th at Bishop Hill Creative Commons, 107 E Bergland St,. An optional community potluck dinner starts the evening at 6 p.m. (bring a dish to share if you’d like to join), followed by the concert at 7 p.m. This is [...]
	Dr. Amy Novak named CEO of ACCU Board of Directors The Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU) has announced that Amy C. Novak, EdD, will serve as Chair of the ACCU Board of Directors. Dr. Novak is currently president and CEO of St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University. Dr. Novak’s appointment comes at a critical time for Catholic higher education, as institutions nationwide [...]
	American Jordan Stolz speedskates to a third Olympic medal -- silver this time U.S. speedskater Jordan Stolz had a lot of hype accompanying him in these Winter Olympic Games. He's now got two gold medals, one silver, with one event to go.
	Bad Bunny and J. Cole rule the pop charts These days, the Super Bowl halftime show is a massive driver of the streaming, airplay and sales that fuel the Billboard charts. This week, Bad Bunny benefits from that influence.
	John Deere calls back 27 employees at Dubuque Works The total returning number of employees has climbed to approximately 275.
	New training, new equipment: Blackhawk Fire expands what crews can do on scene Blackhawk Fire Protection District has upgraded to EMT-level service, allowing firefighters to begin more medical treatment on scene and expand emergency response capabilities.
	U. of Iowa presents 'Beyond the Bump' at St. Ambrose The University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine is hosting a Mini-Med School program, “Beyond the Bump,” on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at St. Ambrose University – Rogalski Center Ballroom, 518 W. Locust Street in Davenport. Check in, activity tables and a light meal will be available from 5:15–6 p.m. and [...]
	The U.S. and Canada set to square off in Olympic women's ice hockey gold medal match Canada was long the top dog of Olympic women's hockey. But with a win Thursday, the Americans could do more than earn a third gold medal — they could prove the sport's balance of power has shifted.
	Bett STEAM Expo features dozens of exhibits Area families can learn about STEAM with hands-on exhibits at the free Bett STEAM Expo on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bettendorf Middle School, 2030 Middle Road. The 2026 Visiting Science Scholar will be Alex Turner, a 2012 Bettendorf High School graduate and research scientist who will speak about his [...]
	John Deere to recall 27 workers at Dubuque Works facility John Deere will recall 27 employees to its Dubuque Works facility in March, bringing total callbacks there to 51 since January.
	Debt validation letter: How to validate a debt Debt validation letter: How to validate a debtHaving a debt collector contact you can be upsetting. A debt collector may try to scare you into making a payment right away. Don’t let them throw you off your game. You have rights.The best way to take control of the situation is to start by getting the facts straight. Before you discuss the debt or make any payment, confirm that the claim is legitimate and accurate.Validating the debt is a way for you to protect your rights. Freedom Debt Relief details how you can do it.Key Takeaways:When a debt collector contacts you, respond within 30 days or they may assume the debt is legitimate.How you respond can be the key to how much you end up having to pay.The best way to start is by asking the debt collector to legally validate the debt.What Is a Debt Validation Letter?A debt validation letter is a formal notice from a debt collector. By law, it is required to spell out certain details about the debt the collector claims you owe. Debt collectors are supposed to send you a debt validation letter (also called a debt validation notice) within five days of contacting you about a debt.When someone approaches you for payment of a debt, it is very important to get the details in writing before deciding what to do. Before you have had a chance to review a debt validation letter, do not say or do anything to agree that you owe the money. The debt validation letter can help you confirm that the debt is accurate and owed by you.Debt collectors make money by collecting as much as they can, as quickly as they can. So, they may attempt to bully you into making a payment quickly, before you’ve had a chance to get all the facts straight.This is where your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) kick in. That’s a federal law that governs how debts are collected. A debt collector is required to provide details about your debt. They are also required to give you 30 days to dispute any of the information they send you.When you are contacted by a debt collector, don’t ignore them, and don’t agree to anything based on a phone conversation. The way to take control of the process is to request a debt validation letter. This will give you a clearer picture of the situation. What Is the Difference Between a Debt Verification Letter and a Debt Validation Letter?A debt verification letter is sent from the debtor (you) to the debt collector in response to the debt validation letter. In a debt verification letter, you can request to have the debt collector provide additional information to verify that the debt is valid. A debt verification letter asks the debt collector for basic details such as the amount owed, the original creditor, and the date the debt was incurred.A debt validation letter comes from the debt collector. It provides detailed information about the debt and why the debt collector has the right to collect money from you. This should include account numbers and documentation of the debt. It should show how fees and interest were calculated.You have the right to send a debt verification letter within 30 days of being contacted by a debt collector. Once the debt collector receives your verification request, they are required to pause collections activities until they respond. It’s important for you to send your debt verification letter within the first 30 days, because this protects your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). If the collector can't verify the debt, they must stop their collection efforts. That could save you from paying debts you don’t owe or falling victim to fraudulent claims.Why You Might Need a Debt Verification LetterImagine getting a call from a debt collector about a credit card balance you haven’t thought about in years. You may remember the account, but the amount they’re asking for seems way off. Or, a debt collector contacts you about a debt you already repaid, but insists you still owe it. Maybe it’s a debt that isn’t even yours—a case of mistaken identity or a mix-up with similar names.In these situations, a debt verification letter can help you start to solve the mystery and defend your rights. Sending a debt verification letter within 30 days of receiving a debt validation notice from a debt collector gives you the chance to press pause on the collection process. That can give you the time and information you need to figure out what's going on.A debt verification letter is a formal request for details about the debt in question. The law requires collectors to prove that the debt is real and that they have the right to collect it.Details debt collectors are required to provide include:Name of the creditorContact information for the creditorAccount number associated with the debtItemization of the amount owed. This should reflect the original amount plus any interest, fees, and payment historySending a debt verification letter has an additional benefit. The debt collector has to stop collection efforts until they’ve provided the information you've requested. This can buy you some time. That gives you a chance to check your records and research whether you have grounds for disputing the debt.Getting these details can protect you from scams, errors, or unfair collection practices. The information you receive can help you understand your options before taking action.It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure when dealing with a debt collector. Sending a debt verification letter is a powerful first step in taking control of the situation.What Must a Debt Validation Letter Include?To be legitimate, the debt validation letter you receive must include the following:Name of the creditor. The company contacting you about the debt may be a third-party debt collector that you have never heard of. Getting the name of the creditor can help you figure out if you really owe the debt. It’s possible that the creditor may be different from the original lender if the debt has been sold to someone else, but you should be told where the debt came from.The amount owed. Check this figure against your own records if you have any. Interest charges and late penalties may have added to the amount you originally borrowed.Acknowledgement of your rights under the FDCPA. You should be notified that you have thirty days to respond by disputing the debt or by requesting additional information (by sending a debt verification letter).The debt collector’s first contact with you might include all of this information, which means you won’t need to request it. But even if you receive an accurate, complete debt validation notice from a debt collector, you can still send a debt verification letter to ask for additional details about the debt.How to Validate Debt: 3 StepsYour legal rights depend on your timely response. Here are three things you should do to validate your debt.Respond to the debt collector quicklyMake the debt verification request in writingSend the debt verification request with tracking1. Respond to the debt collector quicklyThe law gives you the right to receive information and time to think about your response. However, your rights depend on responding within 30 days.Responding is not the same thing as acknowledging or paying the debt. You can respond by sending a debt verification letter, which is a request for additional information. A debt verification letter buys you time while you get the information you need to figure out whether the claim is legitimate and whether you are legally obligated to pay.The key is to request debt verification within 30 days. If you fail to respond within that time, the creditor is entitled to assume that the debt is valid.2. Make the debt verification request in writingYour debt verification letter can request written documentation of any of the following items. This list may seem like a lot to deal with, but remember, these are just requests for information. It’s the debt collector’s job to provide answers to your requests. Simply copy anything from the list that you think might apply to your situation, and include those items in your request for debt verification.The name and address of the creditorThe account number of the loan or credit card on which the debt is owedThe amount owedThe name and address of the original creditor, if different from the current creditorThe account number at the original creditor on which the debt was incurredDocumentation of the transfer of the debt from the original creditor to the current oneA copy of the original agreement that created the debtIf you are not the original borrower, documentation of who was and why you should be expected to pay the debtA copy of the last billing statement sent by the original creditorIf the debt has been transferred to another creditor, the date of that transfer and the amount transferredAn itemized list of any interest, fees, and other charges added to the original amount owed. This list should show the date and amount of each addition, along with an explanation of how these were calculatedAn itemized list of payments to the account, including dates, amounts, and the resulting reduction in the amount owedDates for when the creditor claims the amount owed was due, and when it became delinquentA date for when the debt collector believes the statute of limitations for this debt will expire, and their basis for determining that dateInformation on the debt collector’s licensing in your state. This should include the name of the organization to which the license was issued, the license number, and the name, address, and phone number of the state agency that issued the licenseA request for an offer of an amount the creditor would accept to settle the debt, if they will accept less than the full amount owed in order to get payment sooner3. Send the debt verification request with trackingWhen you send your request for more information, keep a copy of your letter. If you send it by mail, request a confirmation of receipt.You may also want to send a copy of your letter by email. This will speed your response and may give you another way to confirm that the debt collector has received your request.What Happens After You Get a Debt Validation Letter?Once the debt collector validates the debt and answers the questions in your debt verification letter, you have to make a decision about what to do next.The three main choices you have are:Pay what you owe. If you think the debt is legitimate and can afford to pay it, you may want to pay the debt. This will save you from further collection activities for this debt, including a lawsuit and potential judgment against you. Paying the debt will also allow you to avoid the potential for further damage to your credit.Fight the claim. If you think the debt collector's claim is not legitimate, you may dispute it. If the debt is large, this may mean defending yourself in a lawsuit. You should consider getting legal advice before fighting a claim. If you can’t afford an attorney or don’t know how to find one, look for a Legal Aid society in your area that can help.Make a settlement offer. By the time a debt has been referred for collection, creditors are often willing to take less than the full amount owed. You can try making an offer yourself or work with a professional debt settlement company to do so.This story was produced by Freedom Debt Relief and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Pay It Forward: Rock Island bus monitor turning wheels to feed students and homeless population Evelyn Day is the founder of the 'Granny Grayson Outreach' nonprofit that serves essential items to the community for free.
	Defense bill to protect jobs at Arsenal Millions of dollars of federal funding is coming to the Rock Island Arsenal to protect jobs and expand its drone program.
	Amazon dethrones Walmart as the world's biggest company by sales In a slow-motion race of two retail behemoths, Amazon's trump card was its lucrative cloud-computing business.
	A Republican plan to overhaul voting is back. Here's what's new in the bill A Republican voting overhaul is back on Capitol Hill — with an added photo identification provision and an altered name. Opponents say the legislation would disenfranchise millions of voters.
	These Finnish homes are being heated by a surprising source: Bitcoin These Finnish homes are being heated by a surprising source: BitcoinFor someone who cares about climate change, Matt Carlsson had what seemed like a dream job: teaching clients how to decarbonize buildings. But he was frustrated. He could give customers the tools to improve energy efficiency and phase out fossil fuels, but if they couldn’t easily turn his guidance into cost savings, they’d simply ignore him.“Most of these people are not going to take action,” he realized, “because there’s not going to be a business case.”Carlsson decided that he’d need to find a job where he could make the case for energy efficiency on economic terms. This led him somewhere surprising: Bitcoin.Mining Bitcoin generates a significant amount of heat. That’s because the “mining” in question refers to the energy-intensive computational process by which Bitcoin transactions are verified. In a typical transaction, a boxy computer attempts to solve what’s essentially a very complex math problem. If it can do this before any of the other “miners” working on the problem across the world, the miner is rewarded with Bitcoin of its own.This process takes a whole lot of power; overall, Bitcoin mining accounted for an estimated 0.5% of global electricity use in 2024. The more complex the task at hand, the more electricity is needed — and the more heat is created. Essentially, as long as it’s lucrative to mine Bitcoin, it’s going to spit out a lot of extra heat as a byproduct. The question becomes: Can that heat be put to beneficial use?That’s where Carlsson comes in. He’s now helping to heat the homes of 80,000 residents in Finland with waste heat from local cryptocurrency miners, as a part of a project run by his new employer, the Bitcoin mining company MARA Holdings, Grist reports.Water runs through MARA’s miners, which are stored in black metal units in the center of the towns, cooling them off before coming out at a scalding 122 to 172 degrees Fahrenheit (50 to 78 degrees Celsius). From there, the water is pumped underground through the cities’ existing district heating systems, drastically cutting down the need for traditional boilers. As a result, MARA’s two Bitcoin districts have avoided greenhouse gas emissions roughly equivalent to those produced by 700 U.S. homes since its first project came online in 2024.Carlsson thinks this model could be expanded to cities and buildings across the world — and he’s not the only one. Joint Bitcoin mining and heating operations are popping up across Finland, an ideal location because of its cool climate and existing district heating systems that companies can easily plug into. Terahash Energy’s “Genesis” project, for example, is sending waste heat from Bitcoin mining to be used in an industrial area in the Nordic nation, plus some nearby homes. The global Bitcoin mining infrastructure firm Hashlabs hosts six sites connecting miners to district heating systems elsewhere in Finland, with more in the works.“It’s a business, after all,” said Alen Makhmetov, co-founder of Hashlabs. “I just want to make our business much more sustainable, robust, and long-term,” he said. Though there’s a climate case to be made for the operation as well, Makhmetov means “sustainable” in an economic sense. That’s because Hashlabs is now insulated from a crash in the price of Bitcoin — if it loses crypto revenue, it’ll still get revenue for its heating services. The heating customers are insulated, too: Hashlabs has promised to continue producing heat, even if the value of Bitcoin makes its mining unprofitable.“It was really a no-brainer in terms of: Why not do this?” said Adam Swick, MARA’s chief strategy officer. That’s because MARA gets to pull in two revenue streams: The company earns Bitcoin by mining, of course, but it also earns a fee from the districts for supplying heat — all while receiving the water necessary to cool its miners for free. Each of MARA’s Bitcoin heating systems are sized so they provide the minimum heat needed year-round in the cities where they operate. (In the winter, the districts use a combination of electric and biomass boilers to provide extra heat.)Residents of the two locations where MARA operates, the region of Satakunta and the city Seinäjoki, might not realize that anything has changed, since they’re getting heat from the same pipes that they always have. “That’s kind of the goal, that nobody’s impacted,” Swick said. MARA assumed all equipment costs and is providing heat at a lower price compared to electric heating companies.Through MARA’s eyes, it’s better for the climate, too. District heating systems in Finland are mostly powered by burning biomass, such as wood chips. While biomass is considered renewable by some, including the European Union, it still emits carbon when burned. (In the two sites where MARA installed its Bitcoin miners, the districts were also burning peat.) By cutting down on the amount of biomass and peat the districts need to use, MARA calculates that it has mitigated almost 5,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions over the 1.5 years that its districts have been operating. (To come up with this tally, the company references the latest official count of emissions caused by producing and consuming electricity in Finland to figure out how many emissions are caused by the miners, and then it compares that to the emissions stemming from traditional district heating in Finland.)But the scheme won’t make sense for every district heating system in the Nordic nation, because many of them are already highly efficient. Nearly half source their heat from co-generation plants, or power plants that are already burning fuel for the electricity grid. These systems “harvest that heat to be as efficient as possible,” said Eric Bosworth, founder of Thermal Energy Insights, where he advises on projects to transition heating systems from gas to low-carbon thermal energy networks. That weakens the case for heating with Bitcoin.And even where using waste heat from co-generation plants is not possible, reusing the heat from Bitcoin mining is by no means the ideal form of efficient heating — although it is undoubtedly better than letting it go to waste. Bitcoin miners use the same amount of energy as an electric-resistance water heater. Essentially, one unit of energy in produces one unit of heat out. That pales in comparison to the efficiency of electric heat pumps.But while converting to heat pumps would be far more efficient, that would require costly overhauls; each individual building would have to install a heat pump and the associated infrastructure. Most existing systems are not prepared to bear these costs — another version of the dilemma Carlsson found himself confronting before he joined MARA.When district heating systems become overly reliant on imported fossil fuel sources, however, waste heat from Bitcoin can offer a cost-effective solution that comes with a plausible climate case. Hashlabs got its first contract for a Bitcoin heating district after Russia invaded Ukraine, sending energy prices soaring. Some district heating plants that relied on natural gas had gone bankrupt and “needed to either shut down or innovate,” said Makhmetov. Bitcoin mining offered a cheaper solution — one that provided heat with far less need for fossil fuels.Of course, it’s easy to argue that the one thing better than efficiently using Bitcoin’s waste heat is not mining Bitcoin at all. Out of all forms of crypto, Bitcoin consumes the most electricity — more than a small country — because of the particularly energy-intensive way it verifies transactions, which is called proof of work.Given that most electricity grids today still run primarily on fossil fuels — unlike in Finland, which is powered by nearly 95% carbon-free sources, including nuclear and biomass — this could severely limit the climate case of welcoming Bitcoin mining to harness its waste heat.“It’s not a bad thing to be able to heat homes in an affordable way,” said Johanna Fornberg, a senior research specialist at the environmental advocacy nonprofit Greenpeace. “But does that actually provide justification for the industry? I would argue it does not.”“We want to avoid believing these claims that Bitcoin is providing a solution where there otherwise is not one,” she added. Greenpeace, along with other climate organizations, has advocated for Bitcoin to change its verification method, which would cut its energy use drastically.In a world where decarbonization efforts frequently involve tradeoffs, Carlsson is happy that, in this case at least, Bitcoin mining produces what looks to him like a win-win.“When I first started learning about Bitcoin, I was leery of it and trying to figure out if it was a scam,” he said. Seven years later, two tiny miners sit atop his desk. “Now, I feel like a missionary, part of a strange cult.”Still, if operations like MARA’s expand further, it could mean fossil power plants in Finland have to run more, increasing overall emissions, just to have enough energy to power Bitcoin mining, Bosworth said. “I think the more valid argument is that if a Bitcoin operation is already planned, then that heat should definitely be recovered and sent to a district where possible,” he said.A reduction in energy use stemming from the reuse of mining’s waste-heat “is more of a positive side-effect that largely has a negative climate impact,” said Fornberg, “not something that we want to incentivize and become increasingly reliant on in the long term.”This story was produced by Grist and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	'Dude, good luck': the Olympic wit and wisdom of a pioneering African skeleton racer Who says serious athletes are always serious? Akwasi Frimpong, who's competed for Ghana, is a world-class wisecracker as he reflects on being a Black African athlete in the white world of winter sports.
	HUD rule could push families with undocumented immigrants out of their homes A proposed rule could put nearly 80,000 people at risk of eviction, many of them U.S. citizen children. Undocumented immigrants don't get rental aid but can currently live with family members who do.
	1,000 Kenyans were recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine, intelligence report says A new Kenyan intelligence report said the Kenyans were recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine after being misled with false promises of jobs in Russia before being sent to the front lines.
	What is the smallest bra size? What is the smallest bra size?You've measured yourself carefully, tried on countless bras, and still can't find one that fits right. The problem might not be you; you just may need a smaller bra size than you thought.Knowing about small bra sizes opens up properly fitting options that actually work with your body. In this article, shapewear company Honeylove provides the information needed to help you find the right fit.The Smallest Bra SizesThe smallest bra size commonly available is 28AA. Some specialty retailers produce 28AAA, though these are harder to find.A 28AA indicates a 28-inch band with less than one inch difference between your ribcage and bust measurements. AA and AAA cups are smaller than A cups. AAA represents the smallest available cup volume. Many people assume A is the starting point, but the alphabet continues backward for smaller volumes.Cup size is relative to band size. A 32AA contains more volume than a 28AA because the band is larger. When the band increases by one size, the cup volume of the same letter also increases slightly. This relationship between band and cup means your size changes if either measurement shifts.How Small Bra Sizes Are CalculatedBand size comes from measuring around your ribcage directly under your breasts. Pull the measuring tape snug but not tight. You should be able to breathe comfortably.Cup size is determined by the difference between your bust and band measurements. Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level across your back.A difference of less than 1 inch = AAA cupA difference of 1 inch = AA cupA difference of 2 inches = A cupA difference of 3 inches = B cupSister sizing can help you find an alternative size when your cup capacity is perfect, but the band needs slight adjusting. If you're looking for a bigger band size but want to keep the same cup volume, go up one band size and down one cup. If you're looking for a smaller band size with the same cup volume, go down a band size and up one cup size. For example, a 30A and 32AA are sister sizes with similar cup volumes but different band lengths.Proper measuring technique matters more than you might think. Measure while wearing an unpadded bra or no bra at all. Stand straight with your arms at your sides. Take measurements at the same time of day, as breast tissue can fluctuate with hormones, hydration, and temperature. To find your bra size instantly and accurately, use our bra size calculator.Common Misconceptions About Small Bra SizesMany people believe small breasts don't need support. In fact, all breast tissue benefits from proper support regardless of size. A well-fitted bra prevents tissue stretching over time, provides a smooth silhouette under clothing, and distributes weight evenly across your shoulders and back.Small cup sizes can wear the same variety of designs as any other size: lace details, seamless t-shirt styles, plunge necklines, balconettes, and more. The challenge lies in finding brands that manufacture these styles in smaller sizes, not in the styles themselves.Another misconception suggests one size fits all small busts. Your breast shape, root width, projection, and spacing vary independently of volume. Two people wearing 30AA might need completely different styles based on whether their breasts sit close together or wide apart, whether tissue is concentrated at the top or bottom, and how far the breast projects from the chest wall.Finding the Right Fit for Smaller BustsA properly fitted bra sits level across your back. The band shouldn't ride up toward your shoulder blades. Check this by looking in a mirror from the side. The band provides most of the bra's support, so it needs to be snug without digging in.Cups should lie smoothly against your breast tissue without gapping at the top or sides. The fabric conforms to your shape rather than standing away from it. Press gently on the cup; if it moves away from your body easily, you need a smaller cup or different style.The center gore, aka the piece of fabric between the cups, is meant to sit flat against your sternum. If it floats away from your chest, the cups are too small or the wrong shape for your breast spacing.Straps are designed to stay in place on your shoulders without digging grooves into your skin. Adjust them so they provide light support without bearing the weight of your breasts. If you need to tighten straps significantly to feel supported, your band is too loose.Gapping at the top of cups often means the cup is too large, too tall, or designed for more upper fullness than you have. Try a smaller cup size or a style with a lower cut like a balconette or demi cup. Sometimes gapping happens because the bra is designed for a different breast shape, even if the volume is correct.Best Bra Styles for Smaller Cup SizesSoft cup bras without underwire offer comfortable support through fabric structure and band tension alone. The lack of rigid materials means the bra conforms to your unique shape. Many people find soft cups more comfortable for all-day wear, especially in smaller sizes where underwire isn't necessary for support.Lightly lined bras feature thin padding that creates a smooth silhouette under clothing without adding volume. The light lining prevents visible texture while maintaining your natural shape. Look for seamless construction that disappears under fitted tops.Adjustable straps let you customize the fit to your torso length and shoulder width. Closer-set straps prevent slipping on narrower frames. Look for fully adjustable straps that can be shortened significantly.Bralettes provide relaxed support through stretchy fabrics and simple construction. Without molded cups or underwires, they work well for smaller volumes that don't require structured support. Many bralettes feature beautiful lace or mesh details.Keeping these considerations in mind the next time you go bra shopping can help you find the right support and comfort for your unique shape.This story was produced by Honeylove and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Retirements, resignations, hirings, other Davenport School personnel news for Feb. 9 See the personnel items from the Feb. 9 agenda of the Davenport Community School District. The board met at the Achievement Service Center, 2nd Floor, 1702 N. Main St., Davenport.
	Refugees in the U.S. could be arrested under new immigration memo The move is another Trump administration effort to limit legal pathways to migration or resettlement, after already curbing the number of admitted refugees and re-reviewing those admitted under the Biden administration.
	Deere reports mixed Q1 results with revenue growth, lower profits Deere and Company reported first quarter earnings with net income of $656 million, or $2.42 per share, for the quarter ending February 1.
	Inside Iowa Politics: Feenstra faces critics at MAGA Nation Iowa event U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra, a Republican from Hull, faced some party activists who have criticized him for not appearing with other candidates for governor at various events.
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| Feb. 19, 2026 There are many family-friendly events going on this weekend, and we've brought in Dani Howe from WLLR to break it down.
	Deere reports Q1 income of $656 million, net income projected to be nearly $5 billion for 2026 Net sales were $8 million for the quarter, compared with $6.8 million in the same quarter of 2025.
	Seasonal search shifts in home services demand: What spikes when, and how to stay booked year-round Seasonal search shifts in home services demand: What spikes when, and how to stay booked year-roundYour phone rings nonstop in July. By October, it barely buzzes.If you run a home services business, this pattern might be familiar. One month, HVAC jobs are at capacity. The next, the calendar is open. This reflects the reality of seasonal demand patterns in home services.When demand peaks, so does competition for clicks and conversions. When it drops, revenue often follows. Understanding these cycles involves aligning business strategies with homeowner search behavior.WebFX’s analysis breaks down seasonal search shifts in home services demand to help understand the market. This report details what spikes when, the importance of timing in home services, and how seasonality affects lead volume throughout the year.Seasonal search trends by service categoryNot every home service follows the same calendar. Some spike with the weather, while others surge based on immediate necessity. To identify when homeowners are searching, the top U.S. home service queries over the past year were analyzed using Ahrefs Keywords Explorer. Here is what the data shows for each category:1. HVAC services seasonality patterns WebFX HVAC demand swings sharply between cooling and heating seasons. This data shows how searches for top HVAC services rise and fall throughout the year, revealing when homeowners search for repairs, maintenance, or emergency help. WebFX Key insightsDual weather extremes shape demand: “AC repair” searches increase 266% in July, while “furnace repair” dominates January with a 137% increase, indicating that HVAC demand revolves around temperature fluctuations.“Heating system repair” shows the sharpest volatility: With a +594% variance between October highs and January lows, it is the most weather-sensitive term.Emergency searches remain high-converting: “Emergency AC repair” increases nearly 400% from winter to late fall, capturing urgent intent.“HVAC repair” and maintenance terms provide a steady baseline: Their moderate-to-high stability (53–91% range) provides a reliable year-round search engine optimization (SEO) foundation.Strategic considerationsPre-season demand: Cooling-related search volume typically begins to rise in March to April, while heating-focused queries generally increase by September to October.Volatility segmentation: High-volatility keywords (“AC repair”, “emergency AC repair”, “heating system repair”) often see short, weather-triggered bursts. Steady performers (“HVAC repair”, “HVAC maintenance cost”) provide long-term visibility.Weather-driven adjustments: Search activity often correlates with local temperature thresholds, such as 85°F for AC needs or below 45°F for furnace needs.Off-season maintenance: Maintenance-related searches in mild months (April/October) can help smooth revenue dips and fill technician schedules.2. Plumbing services seasonality patterns WebFX Plumbing searches often follow the weather, peaking during heavy summer usage and again in winter when pipes are susceptible to freezing. This data illustrates how searches for key plumbing services surge and dip throughout the year. WebFX Key insightsTwo weather-driven surges dominate plumbing search: “Plumber near me” peaks mid-summer (+36%), while “frozen pipe repair” increases 609% in January.Emergency queries drive high intent: “Emergency plumber” searches rise 191% from April to July, representing real-time service needs.Utility-based keywords show winter resilience: “Water heater repair” maintains steady demand through colder months (41% variance).Evergreen maintenance terms support consistency: “Leak detection” and “drain cleaning service” maintain the lowest volatility (less than or equal to 25%), providing steady organic traffic anchors.Strategic considerationsSeasonal extremes: Demand for “frozen pipe repair” and “water heater repair” typically peaks in November to January, while “emergency plumber” and “plumber near me” see higher volume between June to August.Evergreen content pillars: Topics such as “drain cleaning service” and “leak detection” maintain visibility during slow months.Urgency and automation: Emergency plumbing search volume often correlates with local temperatures falling below freezing or rising above 90°F.Shoulder month diversification: Pre-winter inspections or spring tune-ups can help smooth revenue dips during slower months.3. Electrical services seasonality patterns WebFX Electrical demand remains relatively steady year-round but sees increases during renovation seasons and winter power outages. Here’s how homeowner searches for common electrical services shift across the calendar: WebFX Key insightsMid-summer demand peaks for core services: “Electrician near me” sees its highest search activity in July (+26%), aligning with renovation and repair needs during hot-weather months.Emergency and circuit-related searches surge under pressure: “Emergency electrician” (+160%) and “circuit breaker repair” (+219%) experience sharp spikes, often indicating outage-driven intent.Panel and outlet queries remain steady: With low-to-moderate volatility (20–34%), “electrical panel upgrade” and “outlet not working” offer stable, year-round traffic potential.Inspection-related interest is consistent: “Electrical inspection cost” maintains nearly flat seasonality, making it a strong evergreen target.Strategic considerationsHigh-intent periods: “Emergency electrician” and “circuit breaker repair” demand is highest during late spring to early winter (May to December), capturing storm and overload season needs.SEO stability: Content regarding “electrical panel upgrade” and “outlet not working” maintains consistent organic visibility year-round.Inspection intent: Interest in “electrical inspection cost” is often highest during February to April, when homeowners prepare for renovations.Outage triggers: Emergency-related keywords are particularly valuable during peak storm or summer heatwave periods.4. Roofing services seasonality patterns WebFX Roofing demand rises with weather extremes, including storm damage in spring and fall, and maintenance before winter. This data shows how interest in key roofing services has fluctuated over the past year. WebFX Key insightsVolatility remains low to moderate overall: Roofing demand is less extreme than HVAC or plumbing, with most keywords fluctuating under 70% variance.Roofing searches cluster around maintenance and storm seasons: “Roof repair near me” peaks at +24% variance in September, while “emergency roof repair” and “storm damage roof repair” spike after seasonal storms.Repair and leak-related terms reveal urgency trends: “Roof leak repair” (+69%) and “emergency roof repair” (+70%) show consistent seasonal surges driven by heavy rain or storm activity.Replacement and inspection keywords show stable cycles: “Roof replacement cost” (+55%) and “roof inspection” (+28%) fluctuate modestly, reflecting planned projects or annual maintenance.Strategic considerationsStorm season planning: Demand for “emergency roof repair” and “roof leak repair” typically increases from November to January due to winter storm conditions.Evergreen content for steady leads: “Roof inspection” and “roof replacement cost” guides can ensure off-season lead flow.Retargeting for planned projects: Project planning is often highest during mild months for users who previously searched for “roof inspection” or “replacement cost.”Consistent performers: “Roof repair near me” and “roof inspection” maintain stable, low-volatility demand throughout the year.How seasonality shapes the home services marketWhen analyzing HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing together, it is clear that home services seasonality trends vary by category. Each trade has its own rhythm, influenced by weather, urgency, and homeowner priorities. WebFX HVAC dominates the extremes Search demand for heating and cooling services shows the sharpest swings, with peak-to-valley variances regularly exceeding 250–600%. Heatwaves drive AC repair searches, while cold snaps trigger demand for furnace and heating repairs.Plumbing runs on weather pressure Plumbing peaks twice a year: once during heavy summer use and again when winter temperatures freeze pipes. Searches for “emergency plumber” and “frozen pipe repair” spike quickly with high conversion intent.Electrical demand stays steady Unlike HVAC and plumbing, electrical services are less affected by weather. Most searches fluctuate less than 30%, making electrical a stable category for long-term local visibility.Roofing remains predictable While storms drive emergency searches, overall roofing demand stays relatively stable. Peaks usually align with project planning in spring and late summer.Turning seasonal search data into a year-round planSeasonal demand patterns in home services do not have to result in slow months. Planning for these shifts before they occur is key to maintaining a steady schedule.Set a marketing calendar based on seasonal data: Map peak and valley months for each service and allocate resources before the peak begins.Balance short-term and long-term strategies: Focus immediate efforts on high-volatility, urgent keywords while building long-term visibility around consistent performers.Utilize real-time triggers: Align efforts with weather data, such as increasing focus on AC repair when temperatures exceed 85°F or pipe repair when they drop below 40°F.Localize for regional climates: Southern markets may see longer AC demand, while northern regions may require earlier winter repair campaigns.Maintain off-season revenue: Maintenance bundles and pre-season inspections can help fill calendars during slower periods.Seasonality is a predictable pattern. Understanding and planning for these shifts allows businesses to manage demand effectively throughout the year.Methodology:Data Source: Ahrefs Keywords ExplorerAnalysis Period: January 2023 – December 2024Data limitations and considerations:All search volumes are U.S. national averages (monthly).Values may be rounded for readability; CPC reflects Ahrefs’ current estimates.Seasonality insights show aggregate trends; local climate can shift peaks.This story was produced by WebFX and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	North Scott School District resignations, hirings and other personnel news for Feb. 9 The following personnel items are from the Feb. 9 agenda of the North Scott School District. The School Board met at Administration Office.
	Emergency preparedness test at QC Generating Station Feb. 24 Emergency response personnel from Iowa and Illinois, Scott County, Clinton County, Rock Island County, Whiteside County and Constellation will take part in a one-day emergency preparedness exercise on Tuesday, February 24 in support of the Quad Cities Generating Station near Cordova. Click here for more information on the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program. This scheduled biennial [...]
	Viral body cam footage shows shirtless, alcohol-covered pledges Police body camera footage released following a viral YouTube video shows the scene officers encountered during a 2024 hazing incident at the University of Iowa’s Alpha Delta Phi fraternity.
	Home care has a new job: Well-being Home care has a new job: Well-beingAmericans are spending more time at home. What was a necessity during the pandemic became a preference enabled by technology. With home at the center, how people spend their time and how they care for their environment is changing.New research from The Clorox Company suggests cleaning is becoming more frequent, more emotional, and more closely tied to how people view time and wellbeing. Engagement with cleaning is record high — in fact, many Americans report cleaning more now than they did even at the height of the COVID pandemic. Motivations have shifted, too: Cleaning is increasingly linked to self-care. Consumers find joy in the process and seek emotional rewards. In a volatile world, people turn to home care for stress relief, a sense of control and accomplishment.These are among the many findings in the Home Care Redefined report, a comprehensive look at how life at home is evolving and what that means for the future of related Consumer Packaged Goods categories. Drawing on proprietary insights and broader industry data, the research explores how people are spending time at home, what they value in their spaces, and how domestic routines are adapting to new functional and emotional needs.The takeaway: Cleaning is moving from the background of daily life to something more engaging and meaningful.Cleaning finds a new meaningAccording to the report, Americans continue to spend more time at home than they did before the pandemic, even as offices and social calendars have reopened. Homes are now workplaces, gathering spaces, gyms, entertainment venues and places of recovery — often all in the same day. That shift is reshaping home care.One notable change is the rise of what is described as “in-the-flow” cleaning. Cleaning time now averages 25 minutes daily — more than during the pandemic and a new high. Instead of setting aside large blocks of time for chores, many people are tackling small tasks throughout the day: wiping down surfaces between meetings, refreshing spaces before guests arrive or tidying up to reset between activities.This behavior reflects a deeper shift in motivation. Cleaning is no longer just about meeting expectations or maintaining standards. It is increasingly about how people want to feel in their homes.Consumers frequently describe cleaning as a source of accomplishment and calm. In an environment defined by constant demands on attention, it offers a rare sense of completion and control. The importance of emotional payoff, from reduced stress to improved mood, has for the first time in our tracking surpassed the functional result.For the industry, that shift opens the door to new types of innovation. Solutions that support flexible, intuitive, bite-sized, sensorially rich cleaning are better aligned with how people live today.Greater focus on health at homeAs time at home has grown more central to daily life, so has awareness of how the home environment affects our overall health.People increasingly view their homes as a foundation for holistic wellbeing, spending an additional 5.6 hours per week cleaning. That includes managing germs, allergens and air and water quality, but also creating spaces that feel calm, safe and restorative. A clean home is not just about hygiene; it’s about peace of mind. According to the Home Care Redefined report, up to 93% of respondents said they feel good about themselves when their home smells good.Confidence and reassurance are emerging as powerful drivers of behavior. Many people want to feel certain they are protecting their family’s health and making responsible choices, prompting greater interest in solutions that balance efficacy with ingredient transparency and align with personal values.Younger generations are helping accelerate this shift, with many Gen Z influencers creating content that “rebrands” common household tasks — like calling dishwashing “bath time” for their plates. Rather than reacting to messes, they are approaching cleaning as preventive care — part of a broader wellness mindset that includes nutrition, fitness and mental health. Cleaning routines are increasingly seen as one piece of a larger self-care system.For manufacturers, that evolution raises expectations. Performance remains essential, but so do trust, clarity, and emotional resonance. Products must deliver results while also supporting confidence and comfort in the home.Convenience is no longer just about speedConvenience has long shaped the home care category, but its meaning is changing. Speed still matters, but consumers are placing greater value on ease, flexibility, and even enjoyment. Convenience is also about simplicity, as evidenced by the three out of four consumers who prefer multi-purpose cleaners like wipes and sprays to specialized ones.Many are looking for products that simplify decisions, serve multiple purposes, and reduce friction in everyday tasks. That demand is fueling interest in multi-use solutions and services that bring products directly into the home, helping people reclaim time and mental energy.At the same time, a few long-standing frustrations persist. Laundry stands out as a category where satisfaction is relatively low and expectations are high. People want better results with less effort — and often feel the process is more demanding than it should be. Those gaps represent both a challenge and an opportunity for reinvention.Social media is also shaping perceptions of convenience. According to a survey from American Home Shield, 58% of respondents said they consumed social media about cleaning, housework, or chores. Cleaning routines, product hacks and dramatic “oddly satisfying” transformations have become a staple of online content, influencing how people approach tasks at home and raising expectations for results and ease.Why importance of home care is growingTaken together, these shifts suggest home care is becoming more central to how people manage their time, health and daily lives. What was once considered routine maintenance is increasingly seen as part of a broader effort to create homes that support wellbeing and productivity.That has implications beyond product performance. It points to a category that is more closely connected to culture, emotion and everyday experience than ever before.As homes continue to evolve, the meaning of home care will continue to evolve with them. The question is no longer just how people clean, but why — and what role those routines play in the way they live today.This story was produced by The Clorox Company and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	What is revenue cycle management in healthcare, and why is it important? What is revenue cycle management in healthcare, and why is it important?In today’s healthcare system, patient care is only one side of the equation. Finances, which factor in how providers get paid for their services, support operational viability. Revenue cycle management (RCM) refers to the end-to-end process that transforms a patient encounter into validated, collectible revenue. A strong system ensures providers are fairly reimbursed, reduces waste and improves the patient experience. Weaknesses in RCM lead to cash flow stress, revenue leakage and administrative burdens.Here is Millennia’s guide to managing the revenue cycle in healthcare, why it matters and how organizations can strengthen it, especially in the domain of patient payments.Understanding Revenue Cycle ManagementRCM begins as a patient walks through the door, where registration captures demographic and insurance details. Documentation and coding ensure that the services provided are classified correctly, and charges are submitted to insurers, with claims adjusted and payment posted.However, insurance rarely covers full costs. Patients often receive statements detailing their share of the costs. If these balances are not collected promptly, accounts age, collection costs rise, and revenue is impacted.RCM also includes reporting and analytics to track performance, highlight denial patterns and guide improvements. For leadership, it provides a financial dashboard that reflects the organization’s health in real time. This variable may determine whether a small practice remains independent or merges due to financial strain.Key Components of RCMEach component of RCM plays a role in patient satisfaction and financial stability. These components include:Insurance verification: RCM processes include insurance verification and authorization, which confirm coverage and required approvals to prevent payment delays that affect organizations’ bottom line.Medical coding: RCM systems translate diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes for claims submission. They also record services and treatments for billing accuracy.Claims submission: After recording and assigning the correct medical codes, the RCM system sends code claims to payers in compliance with requirements. The system also conducts payment posting, matching received payments to patient accounts.Accounts receivable (A/R) management: The system follows up on unpaid claims and balances to assist with patient billing and collections. It issues statements and supports patient payment options.Reporting and analytics: Administrative teams benefit from automated reporting and analytics tools, where the system tracks financial performance, trends and areas for improvement.Why RCM MattersRCM matters because it directly determines whether providers are paid and on time. Strong RCM supports clients, organizations and staff equally through operational efficiency, compliance and financial best practice. Millennia Improves Cash FlowStandardized coding and billing practices reduce mistakes that cause claim denials or delays. Fewer errors mean steadier cash flow, which improves financial stability. Hospitals and physician practices have ongoing costs such as salaries, supplies, utilities and debt service. Reimbursement delays create stress and force stakeholders to make difficult trade-offs. The American Hospital Association reports that low reimbursement significantly impacts their bottom line, highlighting the need for disciplined RCM practices.Boosts Operational EfficiencyAutomated claim scrubbing, denial prevention and streamlined patient communication reduce manual errors and save staff time. A missed modifier on a claim, an incorrect patient address or a delayed follow-up call can result in uncollected revenue. When staff members focus on exceptions rather than routine tasks, organizations capture more revenue with fewer resources. Accurate data collection also feeds reporting tools, which help stakeholders make informed, data-driven decisions.Builds Patient TrustPatients often face bills they don’t fully understand. Confusing statements or inconsistent follow-ups can leave them feeling frustrated. Patients need to better understand their bills, have flexible payment plans and enjoy proactive communication from healthcare providers. Simple billing and accessible payment options also secure returning patients.Enhances ComplianceRCM ensures operational alignment with payer requirements, federal regulations and industry standards. Strong compliance practices lower the risk of penalties, audits and repayment demands, which protects finances and reputation. Essential regulations include:Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): HIPAA protects patient health information during billing, claims and data exchanges. RCM systems safeguard electronic health records and financial data.CMS and Medicare regulations: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services frequently update billing guidelines, coding rules and reimbursement models. Compliance is essential for accurate claims submission and to avoid repayment demands.ICD-10-CM and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding standards: Accurate use of diagnosis and procedure codes is necessary for reimbursement.No Surprises Act (2022): The No Surprises Act prevents unexpected medical bills for patients getting out-of-network care. RCM accounts for transparency in patient cost estimates and billing communications.Office of Inspector General (OIG) oversight: The OIG monitors fraud and abuse. Noncompliance in billing or claims can lead to fines, penalties and reputational damage.Patient Experience and RCMHealthcare financial interactions are shifting toward patient-centered models that differ from traditional statements with complex medical jargon that frustrates patients and often delays payments.Patient-centric billing emphasizes straightforward, transparent communication and flexible payment options. This approach enhances patient satisfaction and accelerates the collection process. Supporting patients through accessible statements, online payment portals and responsive communication builds trust and encourages timely payment in A/R.The Patient Payment and A/R DomainThe patient portion of the balance is one of the more critical stages of RCM. Patient balances are fragmented, variable and influenced by individual behavior. Providers must strike a balance between financial necessity and patient sensitivity.A/R follow-up is the structured process of monitoring and resolving unpaid accounts. Dedicated staff or systems track outstanding balances, respond to denials and communicate with payers or patients. When follow-up is inconsistent and balances age beyond 90 days, the likelihood of collection drops significantly. When a patient account reaches 120 days past due, the account is often considered uncollectible.By tracking key performance indicators such as days in A/R, denial rates, patient recovery rates and write-offs, organizations get visibility into revenue trends. Predictive analytics, powered by artificial intelligence, can identify which accounts are most likely to default and prioritize follow-up.Key Challenges in Revenue Cycle ManagementEven well-resourced healthcare organizations struggle to maintain effective RCM. The complexity of payers, patient expectations and internal systems creates barriers that, if left unchecked, can erode trust and revenue. The most common challenges include:Claim denials: Rejections often result from incomplete documentation or incorrect patient information.Change management resistance: Staff often resist new workflows. Without proper training and accountability, even the most advanced tools can fail to deliver results.Manual overhead: A heavy reliance on manual A/R follow-up extends the days’ sales outstanding and increases costs.Payer complexity: Each insurer enforces different rules, prior authorizations and denial codes. Keeping pace requires constant monitoring and adaptation.Shifting reimbursement models: Value-based care and bundled payments complicate billing, as they directly link revenue to outcomes.Coding errors: Mistakes in diagnosis or procedure codes delay payments and may trigger audits.Ethical risks in collections: Aggressive or unclear billing practices damage patient trust and may discourage future care.Regulatory changes: Evolving payer rules and compliance requirements increase risk and complexity.Manual processes and fragmented systems amplify these problems. Paper-based workflows and disconnected software create inefficiencies, extend timelines and leave revenue uncollected. Limited visibility across systems also makes it more difficult to identify errors early, resulting in increased financial strain and administrative burden.Technology’s Impact on RCMWith RCM gaining traction, technology, regulation and patient expectations are shifting, with several trends shaping the future landscape. Staying up to date on key developments helps healthcare organizations effectively handle the challenges in RCM.AI and automation are the foundation of RCM’s impact, with about 46% of hospitals using AI in their RCM operations, according to a 2023 AKASA/Healthcare Financial Management Association Pulse Survey of 450 financial leaders at hospitals across the U.S. This is transforming how organizations handle denials, prioritize accounts and predict payment behavior.Integration with electronic health records (EHRs) and electronic medical records (EMRs) improves accuracy and efficiency. When billing systems align with EHR platforms, patient data flows seamlessly from care delivery to claims submission. Connections with other healthcare IT systems, such as practice management software, patient portals and analytics platforms, streamline workflows.These integrations reduce manual entry and enhance compliance, providing leaders with actionable insights. For these systems to be successful, stakeholders need to keep two pressing matters in mind — cybersecurity and patient expectations.CybersecurityCybersecurity is a growing issue. Because RCM systems handle sensitive financial and clinical information, they are vulnerable to fraud and ransomware attacks. A Microsoft survey found that 67% of U.S. healthcare organizations experienced a ransomware attack in 2024, representing a 42% increase from the previous year.Patient ExpectationsPatients are increasingly treated as healthcare consumers. They expect transparency and convenience. Providers are responding with real-time cost estimates, payment portals and flexible payment plans. Value-based models are influencing RCM by tying reimbursement to outcomes and quality metrics rather than service volume. This shift requires revenue cycle teams to integrate clinical and financial data more closely than ever before. Millennia Best Practices for Effective Revenue Cycle ManagementWhile each organization has unique needs, following RCM best practices will consistently strengthen revenue cycle performance. Start with a comprehensive gap assessment. Mapping the revenue cycle from registration to collection helps identify areas for improvement. Other priorities include:Standardizing processes: Consistency across departments and payers through standardized processes reduces variability and prevents errors.Using automation: Layer automation and artificial intelligence where possible. Automated claim scrubbing, eligibility checks and patient outreach reduce manual work. Predictive analytics enables staff to focus on key accounts.Prioritizing data quality: Clean demographic and insurance data at registration prevents downstream delays and denials.Implementing training: Change management and training are equally important. Support staff with clear instructions, accountability and recognition for improvements.Put RCM Into PracticeTo make these practices actionable, organizations can follow a structured framework:Assess: Evaluate the current revenue cycle performance and benchmark against industry standards.Standardize: Regulate workflows for registration, billing, denial management and patient collections.Automate: Automate repetitive tasks such as eligibility checks and payment reminders.Measure: Gauge key performance indicators and create dashboards for leadership visibility.Engage: Deliver clear and compassionate financial communication to patients.Refine: Continuously improve strategies based on data-driven insights.Ethical and Sustainable RCMRCM is not only about collecting revenue — it’s also about how revenue is collected. Providers must strike a balance between financial recovery, fairness and compassion. Patients with high medical bills may feel overwhelmed. Aggressive or unclear billing practices can lead to distrust and a reluctance to seek future care. Sustainable RCM strategies have clear statements, flexible payment options and respectful communication.Regulatory compliance is also a key aspect of ethical RCM. Federal and state regulations govern billing, collections and data privacy. Violations carry financial and reputational risks. Strong governance, audit trails and ethical training help organizations stay compliant.Ultimately, RCM’s goal is to secure the financial resources that enable providers to continue delivering care, rather than creating unnecessary burdens for patients.The Future of Revenue Cycle Management in HealthcareThe revenue cycle continues to evolve in response to emerging industry priorities and technologies, and AI is the copilot driving all these changes. Providers preparing for future business scaling should track these key trends:Value-based care: Aligning billing with outcomes encourages efficiency and quality over volume.Interoperability: Seamless data exchanges between systems improve visibility and collaboration.Predictive analytics: Using data models to forecast denials, payment trends and patient behaviors supports proactive strategies.Adopting these trends lets healthcare organizations position themselves for financial resilience. Preparing for change requires continuous education, system upgrades and a willingness to adopt new technologies. Investing in agile processes today means stakeholders can more easily navigate ongoing industry shifts, adding greater confidence and stability to the process.How to Optimize Your Revenue CycleRCM is the foundation for sustainable healthcare delivery. By uniting clinical and administrative processes, RCM ensures that providers are reimbursed accurately and patients experience manageable, easy-to-understand billing. Effective RCM reduces errors, improves cash flow and strengthens compliance with evolving regulations. At the same time, it supports a positive patient experience by simplifying payment options and offering clear communication.As the healthcare landscape becomes increasingly complex, organizations that prioritize strong revenue cycle practices safeguard both their financial health and their ability to deliver quality care. When managed strategically, RCM benefits patients, providers and the entire healthcare system.This story was produced by Millennia and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Resignation, hirings and transfers from Bettendorf School District for Feb. 5 The following personnel items are from the Feb. 5 agenda of the Bettendorf Community School District. The School Board met at the Administration Center, 3311 18th St., Bettendorf.
	How to measure AI adoption: 4 key metrics to track How to measure AI adoption: 4 key metrics to trackTelling employees you're "all in" on AI is one thing. Knowing whether it's actually being used—and creating impact—is another. If you don't track adoption, you risk falling into the trap of vanity wins: a few flashy pilot projects that never make their way into day-to-day work.To avoid that, you need clear, consistent ways to measure AI adoption. That means tracking both how widely employees are using AI and how deeply it's embedded into workflows across teams so you can be sure you're not mistaking hype for impact.Here, Zapier outlines four practical ways to measure AI adoption across your organization. Zapier 1. Percentage of active employee usageOne of the easiest and most telling ways to measure AI adoption is to look at the percentage of employees actively using AI tools to help them work faster and better. If the number's high, you know AI has officially made it out of the fun side project category and into actual day-to-day work. If it's low, you may still be in the phase where everyone thinks it's cute that ChatGPT can write haikus.Of course, "high" and "low" are all relative and context-dependent. So rather than benchmarking against some arbitrary percentage dictated by the internet, define what "high" means for your company and track your progress over time. The trend line matters more than the absolute number.How to measure:Monthly pulse surveys: Incorporate specific questions into your existing team surveys—like "Which AI tools did you use for work this week?" with checkboxes for tools you've made available to your team.AI analytics dashboards: Most AI tools have admin dashboards that show active users, session frequency, and usage patterns. It's like checking your screen time report but less depressing (hopefully). This is why enterprise accounts are valuable: They give you another lens on who's actually using AI—not just talking about it in Slack.2. Number of AI workflows deployedYou could use ChatGPT every day to mock up images of your dog in different Halloween outfits, and that would technically count as active AI usage. But seeing a hound dog dressed as a bowl of spaghetti and meatballs doesn't exactly support the business.That's why it's important to go beyond just measuring who's logging in to AI tools. A clearer signal of adoption is the number of AI workflows actually deployed. Workflows are where experimentation turns into lasting value—automating lead routing in sales, drafting customer support replies, or streamlining reporting in ops. Tracking these workflows by department also helps you see where AI has become part of everyday operations and where there's still room to grow.How to measure:Centralized AI registry: Keep a single source of truth where leaders can log new AI use cases. It makes it easier to track growth over time and spot which departments are leaning in.Self-reporting mechanisms: Build measurement into the tools teams already use. For example, set up a Slack bot that prompts employees to share which AI workflows they used that week. It's lightweight, quick, and captures activity that might otherwise fly under the radar.3. Number of AI experiments launchedExperiments show that employees aren't just learning about AI—they're actively testing how it fits into real problems and workflows.You don't need to log every tiny test, but keeping a pulse on how many experiments are launched each quarter gives you a sense of momentum. If the number is rising, adoption is spreading. If it's flat or declining, it may be time to step in with more training, better tooling, or fresh inspiration. Over time, you can also track how many experiments graduate into full workflows. That transition—from test to scaled process—is a strong marker of sustainable adoption.How to measure:Project management tags: Use tags like "AI experiment" in project management tools to easily track and filter AI-related pilots.Hackathon participation: If you run internal hackathons or innovation weeks, track the number of AI-focused projects submitted. These events are a natural breeding ground for experiments. You can also set up a way to follow up on hackathon experiments: how many of them develop into consistent AI usage?4. Rates of completion for AI trainingRolling out AI tools without training is like handing someone a power drill without explaining how and when to change the bits. Sure, they'll figure out how to turn it on. But will they know you have to flip it into reverse to swap out the flathead bit for the hole saw attachment that lets you carve a perfect circle through drywall? Absolutely not. Instead, they'll keep drilling sad little holes and wonder why it's taking forever.That's why tracking completion rates for your AI training programs matters. It's a simple way to see whether people are engaging with the resources you've put in place.How to measure:Learning management systems (LMS): Most LMS platforms have built-in reporting dashboards. They'll tell you exactly who completed training, how long it took, and where people dropped off. (If you notice everyone bailing halfway through Module 3, that's not on them—that's a signal to rework Module 3.)Post-training surveys: A quick survey right after training helps you gauge whether employees found it useful. Ask questions like "Do you feel confident applying what you learned to your work?" It adds color to the raw completion data.Make measurement part of the cultureMeasuring AI adoption isn't about adding more bureaucracy or creating dashboards no one looks at. It's about understanding whether AI is making its way into the daily rhythm of your business—and that it's driving real value, not just hype. That starts with giving teams the right tools to experiment and build. If employees are stuck juggling disconnected apps or shadow AI tools, you'll never get a clear read on what's working.Start simple: track usage, workflows, experiments, and training. Then use those insights to double down on what's working and adapt where needed. Over time, these metrics give you a living picture of how AI is embedding into your culture, so measurement isn't an afterthought but part of how you grow.This story was produced by Zapier and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
	Davenport considers joining IL-MABAS for specialized emergency response Davenport could join Illinois Mutual Aid Box Alarm System District 43 to boost regional emergency response, joining six departments from the Quad Cities.
	Pay It Forward \| Rock Island bus monitor bringing meals to those in need Evelyn Day has been working for the Johannes Bus Company for over a decade and found a passion for youth outreach through slices and fundraisers.
	Dramatic changes coming in the Quad Cities weather Our streak of warm weather is coming to an end with rain, storms, and snow on the way in the next 24 hours. After another day in the 50s today, we cool off to more seasonal temperatures through early next week. Here's your full 7-day forecast.
	Deere reports $656 million first-quarter profit Deere & Co. on Thursday reported fiscal first-quarter profit of $656 million. On a per-share basis, the Moline-based company said it had profit of $2.42. “While the global large agriculture industry continues to experience challenges, we’re encouraged by the ongoing recovery in demand within both the construction and small agriculture segments,” Chairman and CEO of [...]
	Cesar Toscano: My thoughts on the Regional Innovation Center after my first visit Education Reporter Cesar Toscano visited the Regional Innovation Center for the first time.
	Kewanee man charged with criminal sexual abuse CAMBRIDGE — A Kewanee man was charged Tuesday in Henry County Circuit Court with one count of criminal sexual abuse.
	Moline man faces charge of indecent solicitation in Henry County A first appearance in court was set for March 2.
	Des Moines man who drove to Davenport to meet minor enters plea agreement The plea agreement will spare him the possibility of a 140-year prison sentence.
	Louisa Massey This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Dubuque was not always the upstanding city she is today. Begun as a lead mining settlement in the 18th century, she…
	That ain't perfume! Ancient bottle contained feces, likely used for medicine Researchers found a tiny bottle from ancient Rome that contained fecal residue and traces of aromatics, offering evidence that poop was used medicinally more than 2,000 years ago.
	Former Prince Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office: reports Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, reports say.
	Urban sketchers find the sublime in the city block Sketchers say making art together in urban environments allows them to create a record of a moment and to notice a little bit more about the city they see every day.
	Epstein once attended an elite arts camp. Years later, he used it to find his victims Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell lavished money on the Interlochen Center for the Arts to gain access, documents show — even funding an on-campus lodge they stayed in. In the process, two teenagers were pulled into their orbit.
	How do Olympians like Eileen Gu earn $23 million? Here are all the ways Most Olympians never win big money — or big fame. So how are athletes such as Eileen Gu or Chloe Kim able to earn millions of dollars? Here are some of the ways.
	An unsung hero stepped in to help a newly widowed mom in a moment of need Barbara Alvarez lost her husband in 2017, just before their daughter went off to college. Her unsung hero helped her find the strength to be a single mother to her child at a key moment in their lives.
	Iran and the U.S. lean into gunboat diplomacy as nuclear talks hang in balance Iran and the United States leaned into gunboat diplomacy Thursday, with Tehran holding drills with Russia and the Americans bringing another aircraft carrier closer to the Mideast.
	Former South Korean President Yoon receives life sentence for imposing martial law Former President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to life in prison for his brief imposition of martial law in December 2024.
	José María Balcázar becomes Peru's eighth president in a decade José María Balcázar has become Peru's new interim president, replacing another interim leader who was removed over corruption allegations just four months into his term.
	Trump gathers members of Board of Peace for first meeting, with some U.S. allies wary President Donald Trump will gather Thursday with representatives from more than two dozen countries that have joined his Board of Peace, for a meeting that will focus on the reconstruction of Gaza.
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
	North Scott and Muscatine advance to Regional Semifinals North Scott and Muscatine girls basketball picked up wins Wednesday night to advance to the regional semifinals.
	Maquoketa and Assumption advance to Regional Championship Maquoketa and Assumption girls basketball picked up wins Wednesday night to advance to the Regional Championships.
	Railroad tie fire in Central Florida town shows polluters’ disregard for environment, human life Thousands of creosote-soaked railroad ties caught fire in Dunnellon, leaving residents to fear for their health and for the impact on the nearby Rainbow River. (Photo via Marion County Fire Rescue)Have you ever seen an out-of-control fire? I have. Seeing flames leaping wild and high, spreading smoke and ash everywhere, was one of the scariest sights ever. Now imagine seeing a fire like that next to your neighborhood, but it’s burning a form of toxic waste that leaves you choking for breath. That’s what happened on Feb. 1, when tens of thousands of wooden railroad ties caught fire in the Central Florida town of Dunnellon. “A large stockpile of chemically-treated railroad ties caught fire on Sunday morning in Marion County, sending huge plumes of potentially irritating smoke into the air,” WOFL-TV reported. Because the ties were soaked in creosote, “it can produce heavy, irritating smoke,” the TV station reported. “When it burns, it can release toxins into the air, officials said. Due to this, the fire is also being treated as a potential environmental and public health incident due to toxic smoke and contamination risks.” How tens of thousands of creosote-coated railroad ties wound up burning just a couple of blocks from the Rainbow River is quite a tale. It involves Florida history, corporate sneakiness, bureaucratic fumbling, and public outrage. The neighbors in Dunnellon had warned local officials that a fire there would be a disaster — and then the very thing they warned everyone about happened. Jiyoti Parmer via Sierra Club “This is not how it’s supposed to work,” said Jyoti Parmar of the Sierra Club Florida, who started tracking the railroad tie company at its original location near Gainesville. Yet this is the dysfunctional way things DO work in our state these days. And to heck with all the people who have to live with the results. The flesh preserver Here’s something for you to choo-choo on: A lot of Florida cities owe their existence to the railroad. The first steam-powered train in Florida history was one that, in 1836, began hauling cargo from the boomtown of St. Joseph in the Panhandle to the Apalachicola River. By the 1880s, rail had become the primary method for transporting people and goods long distances. Two men, both named Henry, became the state’s railroad barons: Henry Flagler and Henry Plant. The latter expanded his line down the state’s west coast, primarily in Tampa. Flagler, the more ambitious of the two, pushed his East Coast Railway down the Atlantic coast, from Jacksonville to Key West, building new hotels that boosted tourist traffic along the way. When Flagler’s train reached Miami, the town’s population was a mere 300. The railroad brought in so many people that in 25 years it became a bustling city of nearly 30,000. Plant’s rail line eventually became part of the massive CSX system, which since 2003 has been headquartered in Jacksonville. While a lot has changed in rail transportation over the years, one thing has not: Wooden railroad ties support the metal rails. To prevent them from being attacked by termites and wood rot, they have been treated with tar-like creosote since 1875. “Creosote,” by the way, is a made-up word. A German scientist named Carl Ludwig von Reichenbach came up with the word by merging the Greek words “kreas,” which means “flesh,” and “soter,” which means “preserver.” It’s a substance distilled out of coal. And coal, as any backyard chef can tell you, can really burn. Keeping track of Track Line A creosote coating doesn’t mean the ties last forever. They have to be replaced. What if, instead of dumping them in landfills, the old ties could be used as fuel somewhere? A Texas company set up shop in the town of Newberry to do just that. The company planned to grind used railroad ties into dust to be used as fuel in cement kilns nearby. It would be the first operation of its kind in Florida, making this small Alachua County town a hub for railway recycling — whether they wanted to be or not. The company didn’t bother to get any permits from local or state government before it started work. But grinding railroad ties produces lots of dust and fumes. Complaints from coughing people began pouring into the offices of Alachua County’s hazardous materials program. The head of the county agency drove over to Newberry to see what was going on. “He was surprised to see a flurry of activity,” WUFT-FM reported. “Workers hauled in ties …, offloaded them to an open expanse and ground them outdoors, uncovered.” David Malay via LinkedIn The operation was run by a company called Track Line Rail, founded in 2020 by a former railroad official named David Malay. He claimed to have gotten a verbal okay from a now-departed Newberry city manager to proceed with no permits or approved plans, but the city staff couldn’t find any paperwork to verify that. In quick order, the city and county both took action to shut the operation down. City officials told Malay he had to submit a site plan and a development plan and gave him a deadline. He missed it, and they ordered him to close the Track Line site. “When they told us to stop, we stopped,” Malay told WUFT. He appealed the decisions, but told another news organization, Main Street Daily News, that he didn’t think the outrage was justified, calling it “a bit of a witch hunt.” I guess he was feeling railroaded. He asked the county commission to cut him a break, telling them he had a pending $130 million investment backed by a Track Line client that had just brought an additional concrete kiln into the area. He talked of having spent $6 million on equipment and eventually hiring perhaps 50 people as a benefit to the town. A real estate agent who had worked with Malay called him a good corporate neighbor. But the commissioners refused to budge. One said, “I have a problem with companies that think they can come into the city and begin operation … then use pressure tactics such as warning us of loss of jobs.” After seeing which way the wind was blowing, Malay quietly left town. Here comes the iceberg! Dunnellon, a town of about 2,000, lies roughly 45 miles south of Newberry. The first inkling people in Dunnellon had that their town was now the center of the Florida railroad tie recycling industry was a legal notice that appeared in the local paper last fall. The notice said that the Florida Department of Anything Goes — er, excuse me, Environmental Protection — was considering issuing an air pollution permit to Track Line to operate in the historically black neighborhood of Chatmire. “Obviously, this is not just an environmental issue but also an environmental justice issue,” Parmar of the Sierra Club told me. Cathy Redd via subject. Chatmire holds about 400 people, many of them low-income folks in wooden homes and mobile homes who like the laid-back, rural feel of the place. Cathy Redd of Concerned Citizens for Chatmire told me most of it is in unincorporated Marion County, not the city limits. The area just got a central sewer a year ago, she said. Normally in Florida, the people in power pay little attention to pollution problems in enclaves of Black and brown residents, which is perfectly legal under state law. But the fact that this site was in the springshed of the Rainbow River meant that it got lots of attention. The spring-fed river is a wildly popular tourist draw, attracting people (me included) who want to float or paddle down a sparkling waterway. Bill White via subject. The notion of cancer-causing creosote leaking into the soil and then making its way into the river “created alarms for everybody,” said Bill White, vice president of the Rainbow River Conservation group. Initially, White’s organization and others tried to stop the DEP from issuing any pollution permit to Track Line. Then they figured out that resistance, as they used to say on Star Trek: The Next Generation, was futile. As long as Track Line checked the proper boxes on its application, the DEP would never reject its permit, White explained. The DEP would not take any action to protect the environment unless the company violated the terms of the permit. “It was a real eye-opener for me,” he said. “I didn’t know things worked that way,” When he said that, dear reader, I had to bite my tongue reeeeally hard. What many residents worried about was whether the site might catch fire. It was not an idle fear. In 2021, a fire broke out at a railroad tie recycling plant in Selma, Alabama, that was so big it could be seen on weather radar. In 2023, a similar blaze broke out at a tie recycling plant in North Carolina, one that smoldered for nearly a week and spewed plumes of purple smoke several stories high. At their urging, Marion County’s fire marshal toured the site and wrote a three-page report that talked about the danger should a fire break out. Then one did. “It was like telling the captain of the Titanic two hours ahead of hitting the iceberg that he was going to hit an iceberg,” White said. Marion County firefighters battle blaze. (Photo via Marion County Fire Rescue) Burning questions Nobody knows yet what sparked the spectacular Dunnellon blaze. There are lots of them breaking out all over Florida right now — 650 so far this year, thanks in part to our worsening drought. The blaze sent ashes and pieces of wood raining down on roofs and lawns in the nearby neighborhood. Redd got a call from her adult daughter at 5:30 a.m. to ask if she knew about the fire. It was all that people were talking about on Facebook, her daughter said. “I looked out the door and saw flames all over,” she told me. If the wind had shifted and sent the fire toward Chatmire, she said, it could have wiped out everyone in her neighborhood. The next day, people fired up about the fire crowded into Dunnellon’s City Hall to talk about how awful it was and what should happen next. I haven’t seen a transcript, but I bet somebody mentioned the old-fashioned practice of riding someone out of town on a rail. “This catastrophe is a once-in-a-generation event, especially in a place like Dunnellon,” White said, noting that the town is so small, the mayor’s salary is $150 a month. “It’s beyond the normal scope of what this place has to deal with.” Marion County had already ordered Track Line to get out of town, sending a notice of violation in October and a cease-and-desist letter in November. During a community meeting in December, Redd said, local officials announced that Track Line had agreed to remove all of its ties. But by the time the fire started three months later, Track Line had hauled off only 20% of its pile, leaving tens of thousands still ready to fuel the flames. Now not only are the remaining timbers being removed (to Alabama, if you’re wondering), but so is the soil under them, because of the creosote contamination. The most recent DEP update to Dunnellon, dated last week, said 37 truckloads of soil have been hauled away for disposal. The DEP is also paying a contractor to conduct air quality tests, which Redd said are badly needed because a number of Chatmire residents have gone to the emergency room with breathing problems. Meanwhile, I think everyone is holding their breath to see what effect this has on the Rainbow River. CSX has been cooperative with local and state officials, which is smart since the timbers were piled on its property. One person no one has heard much from: Malay. I tried several times to reach him for comment, to no avail. He’s been as quiet as he was when he moved those timbers from Newberry to Dunnellon. Marion County Commission Chairman Carl Zalak III via screen grab. I watched a video of Marion County Commission Chairman Carl Zalak III saying they were “taking action at every turn.” That’s more than I can say for our laissez faire DEP. In fact, the next time you hear some dopey politician talking about cutting bureaucratic red tape, yanking away the power of local government, and allowing business to flourish in a rules-free environment, remind them of the Dunnellon disaster. The local government tried to stop what happened before it happened, business showed no concern for anyone else, and the agency that’s supposed to protect the environment did not. Maybe, if we remember these lessons, we can avoid another trainwreck like this one Courtesy of Florida Phoenix
	Northern Illinois native seeks Olympic gold with undefeated Team USA Tessa Janecke and Team USA take the ice one more time at 12:10 p.m. Thursday to try and finish their undefeated run to the gold medal.
	Davenport elementary students play in their own Olympic Games As the Olympics are set to wrap up, students at Garfield Elementary School are wrapping up their own lesson on the Olympics.
	Davenport considers joining IL-MABAS for specialized emergency response Davenport could join Illinois Mutual Aid Box Alarm System District 43 to boost regional emergency response, joining six departments from the Quad Cities.
	Quad Cities faith leaders protest ICE The Walk for Peace and Dignity will begin at 4 p.m. on Friday at the Rock Island County Courthouse.
	Students at Harrison Elementary celebrate Black History Month Davenport Native and business owner Dailon Rush-Trice will also be holding a free book fair for students.
	Man killed in Clinton shooting First responders said they found an adult man suffering from a gunshot injury on Tuesday night. Though he was hospitalized, the victim eventually died of the injury.
	Large fire breaks out in rural Bureau County More than 100 acres were burned, but the only structure damaged was a home that had its back wall burnt.
	Man killed in Clinton shooting First responders said they found an adult man suffering from a gunshot injury on Tuesday night. Though he was hospitalized, the victim eventually died of the injury.
	One man dead in Clinton shooting incident Tuesday night Clinton police officers and firefighters were sent to the 500 block of 22nd Avenue N to investigate a report of a gunshot victim at about 9:02 p.m. Tuesday.
	Davenport glass-making nonprofit completes project for Clinton arboretum Construction surrounds the Bickelhaupt Arboretum as Clinton Community College leaders envision a modern look on a timeless home. The college broke ground on the project last May. Part of that project includes transforming an old pool into a brilliant display of color. "We decided that the best thing to do with this beautiful homestead is [...]
	Clinton Police investigate fatal shooting The Clinton Police Department is investigating an fatal shooting incident. According to a release, on February 17 at approximately 9:02 p.m., the Clinton Police Department and Clinton Fire Department responded to a reported gunshot wound in the 500 block of 22nd Avenue N. First responders found a victim and transported the man to MercyOne Medical [...]
	Why Illinois commercial driver's license program is at risk of losing funding Illinois could lose money after the U.S. Department of Transportation warns $128 million for the state is at risk. A federal review of the Illinois' commercial driver's license program indicates almost 20% of licenses were issued illegally. The federal agency says Illinois has 30 days to comply and revoke the illegal licenses or risk losing [...]
	Man dies after being found with gunshot wounds, police say A man has died after being found with gunshot wounds Tuesday night.
	Carbon monoxide scare in Moline highlights the danger of defective detectors Moline firefighters responded to carbon monoxide in a home Wednesday after a car ran in an attached garage. Officials warn symptoms can mimic illness.
	In legislative speech, Dan Sullivan reiterates support for Trump administration, denounces Democrats U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, leaves the Alaska Legislature on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, after his annual address to state legislators. (James Brooks photo/Alaska Beacon)Facing a potentially difficult re-election campaign, U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan came to the Alaska Legislature with praise for President Donald Trump’s administration and damnation for Democrats. The Republican senator endured a gauntlet of protesters before he delivered his annual address to state lawmakers, saying his theme was an “Alaska comeback” brought about by the change between the Democratic presidency of Joe Biden and Trump’s Republican administration. “We’re now beginning to see the beginnings of a real comeback and real progress on goals we’ve dreamed about collectively for decades,” he said, referring to the way the Trump administration has opened more parts of the North Slope to oil and gas drilling, and its stated support for a trans-Alaska natural gas pipeline. Sen. Lyman Hoffman, D-Bethel, leads U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, through a group of protesters in the Alaska Capitol on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026. Hoffman has endorsed Sullivan in this year’s U.S. Senate elections. (James Brooks photo/Alaska Beacon) He reiterated his support for the Republican-drafted budget plan known as the Big, Beautiful Bill Act. It’s since been rebranded the “Working Families Tax Cuts Act.” That plan calls for multiple oil and gas lease sales in Alaska, new military and Coast Guard construction in the state, and large personal tax cuts. It also offered large one-time health care funding grants to compensate for a cut to Medicaid, cut federal food stamps and imposed work requirements for both programs. More Alaska-specific benefits in the Big Beautiful Bill were objected to by Senate Democrats and removed before the bill’s final passage, including a Medicaid increase that Sullivan had sought. In his speech, Sullivan repeatedly criticized Democrats in the U.S. Senate. “Alaskans should know who wants to help us and who wants to hurt us,” Sullivan said. One of the legislators listening in the audience was state Sen. Forrest Dunbar, D-Anchorage. “That was the most partisan speech I’ve ever heard a member of the congressional delegation give in the Alaska Legislature,” he said afterward. “There was no critique of what the Trump administration has done in canceling projects in Alaska. There was no critique of what Trump has done, whether it comes to rule of law or democracy,” Dunbar said. U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, receives applause from the Alaska Legislature on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, during his annual address to state legislators. (James Brooks photo/Alaska Beacon) Also listening was state Sen. George Rauscher, R-Sutton. Afterward, Rauscher said he always appreciates the volume of Sullivan’s speeches and the range of subjects. Did it feel like a campaign speech to him? “If it felt like that, there’s probably a reason,” Rauscher said. Until Sullivan was prompted by reporters and lawmakers, he didn’t address some of the nation’s most inflammatory issues, including the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers nationwide. The day before Sullivan’s speech, ICE agents detained a Soldotna family, including a mother, two teenagers and a five-year-old. Rep. Alyse Galvin, I-Anchorage, asked Sullivan about the incident. He responded that he hadn’t heard about it. Answering reporters’ questions after his speech, Sullivan voiced soft disagreement with ICE policies nationwide, saying he supports deporting illegal immigrants with violent criminal records. “I think that should be the focus of the administration’s efforts,” he said. About ICE’s violent tactics in Minnesota, Sullivan said, “I put out statements, but also, importantly, weighed in with senior folks in the administration, saying, look, it’s really important to bring the temperature down on both sides — which ended up happening — and then very much that ICE needs to refine its techniques and tactics.” Sullivan said he doesn’t believe protesters killed by ICE agents are “domestic terrorists,” as the White House has claimed. “American citizens have the right to their Second and First Amendment rights, and I don’t think they should be targeted for that reason,” he said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Courtesy of Alaska Beacon
	Quad Cities Muslims gather for Ramadan, emphasize faith and community For the next month, the focus is on fasting, faith and family for our QCA Muslim community, which now stands at more than 2,000 members and is growing each year.
	Iowa bill to regulate license plate readers advances A bill to regulate automatic license plate reader cameras use by law enforcement is advancing in Iowa. House File 2161 regulates how the the cameras could be used by law enforcement. Local governments would have to adopt ordinances to approve their use, and officers wouldn't be allowed to use the data from the readers after [...]
	Sundown towns: Examining a dark chapter in U.S. history during Black History Month Local experts and residents share testimony about communities that excluded Black Americans after dark
	Our Quad Cities News weather team visits Ekstrand Elementary in DeWitt After the kindergarten students at Ekstrand Elementary spent some time studying weather lately, it was a great day for Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray to pay a visit to the school! Andy talked about weather, severe weather safety and read a great kids' weather book to 4 separate classes! Here are some pics from Wednesday: And [...]
	Homeschool parents speak against Iowa tax credit bill Some parents who could receive thousands in tax dollars per year spoke out against a proposal to do that during an Iowa House subcommittee hearing Wednesday.
	Police say camera registry program is investigative tool Doorbell camera footage is playing an increasingly important role in criminal investigations, giving law enforcement valuable leads and helping piece together events, as seen recently in the Nancy Guthrie case.
	4 year old birthday girl Gynelle helps Andy with weather update It's another windy, warm and dry day around the Quad Cities - so the Red Flag Warning is in effect for a little while longer Wednesday evening. And Andy gets some help from a 4 year old birthday girl (granddaughter of one of our co-workers at Our Quad Cities News!) Check out the very entertaining [...]
	With a win over Sweden, the U.S. men's hockey team will play for an Olympic medal A thrilling overtime goal by defenseman Quinn Hughes puts Team USA through to a semifinal game against Slovakia. On the other side of the bracket, Canada had its own close call, but moves on to face Finland.
	Zuckerberg grilled about Meta's strategy to target 'teens' and 'tweens' The billionaire tech mogul's testimony was part of a landmark social media addiction trial in Los Angeles. The jury's verdict in the case could shape how some 1,600 other pending cases from families and school districts are resolved.
	Full text: Sen. Anderson’s letter to GOP leaders after abortion bill backlash The full text of Sen. Neil Anderson resignation from leadership posts in the Illinois Senate.
	Extreme Temperatures in History While we have been seeing temperatures over the past week very above normal, it has been leading to wonder where do we normally see temperatures like this? And while temperatures like these are certainly unusual, they are not impossible when looking over the history of records and seeing the vast difference between them. The Spring [...]
	Galesburg prepares to break ground on National Railroad Hall of Fame After nearly two decades of planning, Galesburg is preparing to break ground on the National Railroad Hall of Fame.
	Vegetation fire burns across eastern Iowa counties, 558 lose power Multiple grass fires are burning across several eastern Iowa counties Wednesday afternoon, with smoke visible from city cameras.
	QCA students earn a spot at FIRST LEGO League international STEM competition A team of 5th and 6th graders from schools in the Pleasant Valley School District made competitive robotics history. The Robogineers landed a spot to compete on the world's stage in April, but they need the community's help to get them there. The team members' ages range from ten to twelve years old, and they [...]
	The Trump administration is increasingly trying to criminalize observing ICE ICE officers often tell people tracking and watching them that they are breaking federal law in doing so, but legal experts say the vast majority of observers are exercising their constitutional rights.
	Crews extinguish field fire near Coal Valley homes A fire is threatening some homes and buildings east of Coal Valley Wednesday afternoon.
	Boil order issued following large water main break in Moline The City of Moline said that crews were still working to repair the large water main break as of 3 p.m. Wednesday.
	Davenport Fire Department considering joining mutual aid box alarm system "MABAS" is a group of local fire departments who commit to responding to large-scale incidents, disasters and special operations.
	Pritzker pitches $56 billion Illinois budget Illinois Governor JB Pritzker proposed his $56 billion state budget on Wednesday during his State of the State address. It includes new taxes on social media companies and a ban on cell phones in the classroom. Pritzker wants to implement a tax on social media companies to help balance the budget. Like the last two [...]
	March for Peace and Dignity set for QCA A news conference at the Rock Island County Courthouse previewed the March for Peace and Dignity set for February 20. Nine religions were represented at the announcement via Quad Cities Interfaith. Religious leaders said the intention is to present a united front and will protest federal immigration enforcement across the country. The march begins at [...]
	Muslims in the Quad Cities celebrate Ramadan Lisa Killinger with the QC Muslim Community joined The Current to speak about the significance of the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

Thursday, February 19th, 2026

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026