Guest column's stories

Culture Bright: The Quad Cities’ season of one-of-a-kind experiences

When you see the words Culture Bright, consider it a signal — something unforgettable is about to happen. It’s not a new event; it’s the next chapter in a story that began 40 years ago with Festival of Trees —…

Outplacement Services: the beginning after the end

Job loss is one of life’s most disruptive events. According to the Holmes-Rahe Life Stress…

Aligning industry & education to build tomorrow’s workforce 

Local industry is facing a challenge that’s too familiar – finding skilled, dependable workers who…

With Edgar’s death, nation lost true statesman, caring leader

There are traits that we hope our elected officials have or at least aspire to:…

Medicaid changes threaten future of disability programs 

“You’re sure you’re okay? You just left.” “Yes, she’s great!” “Seriously?” “They have her. They…

Let Iowa small businesses swipe smarter, not harder

Running a small business in Iowa means learning to stretch every dollar. I work long…

Real connections, real change: Empowering Abilities in action

This summer marks 35 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law –…

Families gain long-term tax relief under One Big Beautiful Bill

Families have plenty to celebrate as the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) introduces several favorable…

Introducing financial literacy to your children

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, financial literacy is more important than ever. A recent…

Heidi Parkhurst Bank of America minimum wage

How to be interviewed with an AI chat bot

Artificial intelligence is changing how business is done, no more so than in the hiring…

From coffee chats to corner offices: Why sponsorship must replace mentorship 

For decades, mentorship has been the go-to strategy for advancing women in  leadership. It’s well-intentioned,…

QC nonprofits bracing for federal cuts

  On June 30, I had the honor of co-hosting a Nonprofit Legislative Roundtable with…

Harnessing employee feedback to drive engagement, organizational success

Employee feedback is no longer a “nice-to-have” – it’s a strategic necessity.  As organizations navigate…

Time to LIFT Iowa small businesses, strengthen communities

As a small business owner, I know what it feels like to face a project…

QCAIR: Empowering immigrants and refugees, enriching the Quad Cities

Founded in 2012, the Quad Cities Alliance for Immigrants & Refugees (QCAIR) is a 501(c)(3)…

Understanding sales tax exemptions for manufacturers

Sales tax exemptions are powerful tools that help manufacturers reduce costs, reinvest in operations, create…