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

Thursday, May 23rd, 2024
	Pay it Forward \| Preschool teacher provides comfort for children in hospitals Amanda Long is a preschool teacher who goes above and beyond for children outside the classroom. Long spends her time creating goodie bags for hospitalized kids.
	UnityPoint Health doctor raising awareness about the risks of strokes Dr. Mohammed Sajed said one of the signs to look for in people having a stroke is sudden weakness on one side.
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| May 23, 2024 There are many family-friendly events going on this weekend, and we've brought in Dani Howe from WLLR to break it down.
	Bally's Quad Cities celebrates National Teacher Appreciation Day Bally's Quad Cities celebrated National Teacher Appreciation Day by donating and delivering 70 boxed lunches to Rock Island Academy, a news release says. Recognizing the hard work and dedication of teachers, Bally's Quad Cities expressed its gratitude by providing meals to fuel the educators throughout their busy day. Teacher Appreciation Day (Bally's Quad Cities) "We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of the teachers and staff at Rock Island Academy," said Travis Hankins, vice president and general manager at Bally's Quad Cities. "Their passion for education deserves recognition, and we are honored to show our appreciation on National Teacher Appreciation Day." Bally's Quad Cities remains committed to supporting the local community and believes in the power of education, the release says. By recognizing the efforts of teachers, they hope to inspire others to value and appreciate the significant impact educators have on the lives of students.
	Living Lands & Waters partners with the John Deere Classic to plant trees around the Quad Cities A total of 1,929 trees will be planted, which is 1 for each birdie scored in the 2023 tournament.
	Happy to help feed: MCSD & USDA Free Summer Meal Program returns Muscatine Community School District will again participate in the USDA’s Free Summer Meal Program. The program will run from June 12 to July 31.
	Community Foundation awards over $500,000 in scholarships to area students The Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine and its affiliate, the Community Foundation of Louisa County, were able to award over 170 scholarships valued at over $500,000 to local graduates.
	Sinclair donates $25,000 to Muscatine County Fairgrounds event center Sinclair Tractor has become the latest of many to donate to the construction of a new event center on the Muscatine County Fairgrounds in West Liberty.
	Golden Apple Accelerators program inducts largest cohort of future Illinois teachers The Illinois Golden Apple non-profit inducted its largest cohort of aspiring teachers into its 2024 Accelerators Program.
	Greenfield, Iowa residents recovering after deadly tornado destroys town The small community of Greenfield, Iowa, is reeling after an "at least" EF-3 tornado came through town, injuring more than a dozen and killing multiple people.
	Davenport woman accused of double murder moved to Marshall County Jail Accused of being part of a double homicide in Davenport, Adriana Blake will now be housed 153 miles away.
	Firefighters battle flames at early morning trailer fire in Milan It happened around 3:30 a.m. Thursday in the Woodland Mobile Home Park on Coyne Center Road.
	Eldridge utility board votes to undo legal actions by previous board members New members of the board that governs Eldridge's municipal utility voted to undo legal action previous members of the board took against the city.
	Early morning truck fire under investigation in Davenport A fire official tells TV6 it happened around 2 a.m. Thursday on W. 50th St/Sheridan St. near Welcome Way in front of the McDonald’s.
	Ride on the wild side at FORC-Side Thrill Ride Take a ride on the wild side at the FORC-Side Thrill Ride! Using natural terrain with leg-burning climbs and thrilling downhills, ride across large wooden berms, skinny creek crossings and more in Davenport's Sunderbruch Park, voted 'Number One Mountain Bike Trail' in Iowa. The race is the 3rd and final installment of FORC's (Friends of Off-Road Cycling) 2024 three-part race series. Featuring a kids' race and challenges for even the most experienced riders, FORC-Side Thrill Ride Mountain Bike Race is Sunday, June 2 at Sunderbruch Park, located at 4675 Telegraph Rd., Davenport. To register, or for more information, click here.
	Hear from the Republican candidates for Scott County Auditor Current Auditor Kerri Tompkins is running for election against a primary challenger, Mark Nelson. Both answered a survey from the Quad-City Times. Read their responses.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 23, 2024 George D. Lockhart, 82, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away Sunday, May 19, 2024. Arrangements are pending at the Runge Mortuary.
	Live Music for June: Metal, Indie Rock, and Things Between on June 1 and 15 Black metal was born in Scandinavia more than three decades ago, the devilish creation of bored, angry, and misanthropic teenagers who sought to take the rawness of thrash and carry it to faster and more sinister extremes. Thirty-plus years later, the style is more popular than ever, but many bands have realized that reinventing the diabolical wheel is not enough.
	Cleanup efforts underway after destructive winds sweep through eastern Iowa Tuesday Storms produced wind speeds of at least 70 to 90 mph, damaging trees, snapping power poles and ripping roofs off homes and businesses.
Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024
	QC Edition: National Travel and Tourism Week National Travel and Tourism week gives QCA residents an opportunity to celebrate what all the region offers. The Quad Cities has a variety of vibrant arts, entertainment, scenic riverfronts, and cultural scenes.
	Bettendorf’s Summer Concert Series returns in June There are 10 reasons to spend every Thursday night this summer at Faye’s Field, city officials said. The Bettendorf Public Library is excited to announce the return of it’s wildly popular Summer Concert Series.
	Douglas Park dedicated at Party in the Park Rock Island Parks and Recreation held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Douglas Park. Party in the Park celebrated the completion of renovations at Douglas done to the concession stand, press box and a new playground. There was face painting, bounce houses and yard games, along with free hotdogs. Kids played a game of kickball against Rock Island police officers, and even Our Quad Cities News Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray joined in on the fun. For more information on Douglas Park, click here.
	The city of Rock Island reopens Douglas Park following renovations The city of Rock Island held a ribbon cutting Wednesday for the reopening of Douglas Park along with its party in the park celebration.
	City of Muscatine to host Almost Friday Fest on Thursday The City of Muscatine will be hosting their Almost Friday Fest on Thursday and some parking restrictions will be in place.
	Illinois could offer tax incentives for technology jobs Quantum computing is expected to lead to major breakthroughs in different fields,and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker wants his state to be a player in the technology game. As Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol Bureau Chief Cole Henke reports, Illinois is getting closer to offering tax incentives for companies to bring jobs in the tech fields.
	Gov. Reynolds orders flags at half staff to honor Iowa Department of Transportation worker In Iowa, Gov. Kim Reynolds is ordering all flags to be flown at half staff on Thursday to honor a member of the Iowa Department of Transportation who was killed while working on I-80 last week.
	1 dead after forklift accident, Burlington Police Department says A man is dead after a forklift accident, according to officers with the Burlington Police Department.
	Aftermath of severe weather on QCA farms As severe weather made its way across the QCA and beyond, farms in Clinton County are now dealing with the aftermath as strong winds knocked down trees and took down buildings near Lost Nation. Our Quad Cities News reporter Linsey Tobin shows us the toll damage has taken on one area family.
	Man charged in Knox County storage unit burglary investigation The Knox County Sheriff’s Office made an arrest in an ongoing investigation involving multiple burglaries.
	Catholic Diocese of Peoria announces major parish mergers and closures Major changes are coming to the Catholic Diocese of Peoria, impacting several parishes in the Quad Cities region. Some parishes will be merging, and some buildings will be closing.
	How Rock Island National Cemetery keeps its veterans' headstones bright and white Twice a year, contractors will power wash and brush nearly 30,000 headstones on the Rock Island Arsenal.
	High winds in Maquoketa rip roof off Eagles Club, damages two other buildings The Eagles Club will decide its next steps based on what a structural engineer determines.
	Sherrard students learn Spanish to talk with pen pals in California Third graders in Stephanie Hampton's class made a Spanish word wall and practiced with staff in the building so they could speak in Spanish with their pen pals.
	Why did Tuesday's severe storms fizzle out before hitting the Quad Cities? The same storm system that ripped across Iowa and ravaged the community of Greenfield was greatly weakened when it reached the Quad Cities area.
	Why did Tuesday's severe storms fizzle out before hitting the Quad Cities? The same storm system that ripped across Iowa and ravaged the community of Greenfield was greatly weakened when it reached the Quad Cities area.
	High winds tear roof off Eagles Club building in Maquoketa, damages nearby business News 8's Maddie Franz shows how the community plans to pick up the pieces after high winds swept through May 21.
	Meta considers Davenport for new data center campus A state board recently approved an application for a financial incentive to build a Meta data center campus in Davenport.
	Understanding black cutworms' impact on corn crops Virgil Schmitt, extension field agronomist for Iowa State, joined The Current on News 8 to talk about how black cutworms can negatively affect corn crops.
	Severe weather damages Maquoketa homes and businesses The scene in Maquoketa showed trees blown over onto houses, debris in the streets and even a roof being blown off of a building, even affecting nearby businesses and apartment complexes. The roof was part of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Maquoketa, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting peace, prosperity, and hope. Many involved with the buildings damaged are hoping for the best, to rebuild what they lost. "It was loud, it was very loud in there," Secretary Trustee Michael Duhme said. "We couldn't hear the sirens, and we found that in the back here the roof was gone. A lot of insulation was outside at that point." Neighbors around the area went out to help others affected by the storm after it traveled through, and some businesses were hit hard. "It was 70 miles per hour, then the second warning came out for 90 mile per hour winds to our north and to our east," Maquoketa resident Brett Massey said. "Storm sirens blew, so our law enforcement did a good job of getting those out very quickly. West end of Maquoketa when it first happened was without power. It impacted local businesses that were still open. Gas stations, a couple of retail stores were without power for a while." Local business owner came out to help the Eagles Club, with possible restructuring of the building that can be done by the weekend. "There's been a lot of support," Duhme said. "We took out what we could last night, it was late when we got out of there. We moved a lot of stuff out." "When you live in a tight knit community like this, its sort of like oh man these people are going through something too," Mississippi Valley Metals owner Steve Kurtzsaid. "It's sort of like what can we do to reach out and help. That's pretty much what everyone is doing here." "There's a lot of money that we pour into the community," Duhme said. "But right now, we just have to take it day by day."
	Bettendorf sets new Summer Concert Series The cities of Moline and Bettendorf will have a virtual battle of the bands this summer, as they do every year, with dueling Thursday night concert series. While Moline launched its Bass Street Landing Summer Concert Series downtown last week, each Thursday, the city of Bettendorf will drop the needle on its Faye’s Field concert series (outside the Bettendorf Public Library) on Thursday, June 6. This 10-week event begins June 6th and takes place every Thursday night through August 15th (with the exception of July 4th due to other festivities taking place across the city). 10 Of Soul -- the QC band that brings to the stage a dynamic range of classic soul, funk, and pop -- will start the free Bettendorf concert series Thursday, June 6 at Faye's Field. The free concerts start at 6:30 p.m. at Faye's Field, 2850 Learning Campus Drive. You are encouraged to bring chairs along with your own food and drinks. In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held inside the Bettendorf Public Library, 2950 Learning Campus Drive. The concert schedule is: June 6 -- 10 of Soul June 13 -- The Tailfins June 20 -- The Blackstones June 27 -- Fair Warning July 11 -- Crooked Cactus July 18 -- Funktastic July 25 -- Avey Grouws Band Aug. 1 -- Troy Rangel and Friends Aug. 8 -- The Velies Aug. 15 -- Angela Meyer The Summer Concert Series is funded by the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation and supported by Title Sponsor TBK Bank, as well as Autographed Edition Sponsors: Bettendorf Rotary Club and Duck Creek Tire & Service. You can find more information about this event and others happening at the Bettendorf Public Library by clicking HERE or by calling (563) 344-4175.
	Common Chord to host Downtown Davenport Summer Kickoff Block Party Common Chord is set to host their ‘Live at 5′ Summer Kickoff Block Party in June.
	Hy-Vee offers free grocery delivery for one year following the upcoming closure of Davenport store Residents must live within one mile of the store, and purchases must be a minimum of $24.95 to be eligible.
	Registration now open for annual Gilda's Club 'Run for Hope' The 5K & 1-mile Fun Run will take place in Coal Valley on Saturday, June 29. Funds will go toward Gilda's Club Quad Cities, benefitting families impacted by cancer.
	Help kids in foster care with QC Closet2Closet As Augustana College students are moving out for the end of the school year, they're getting the opportunity to give items they don't need to kids in foster care. Liam Haskill dropped by Our Quad Cities News to talk about QC Closet2Closet. For more information, click here.
	Hy-Vee offers free grocery delivery for one year following the upcoming closure of Rockingham Road location Residents must live within one mile of the store and purchases must be a minimum of $24.95 to be eligible.
	Memorial Day preparations include cleaning thousands of Rock Island National Cemetery headstones Twice a year, contractors will power wash and brush nearly 30,000 headstones on the Rock Island Arsenal.
	Moline River Front + Centre Plan seek community feedback for Moline’s riverfront survey before summer begins Moline River Front + Centre Plan are asking for the community’s help in gathering feedback on the draft version of Moline’s riverfront before everyone’s busy summer starts. This will be the third community survey.
	Rep. Dan Swanson working for funding to restore state historic sites Bishop Hill was recently listed on Landmarks Illinois’ list of the Ten Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois. According to a news release, the site was “threatened since the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has not been provided with sufficient funding to properly maintain the site.” State Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) has been trying to get state funding for these sites for years. Back in July of 2021, he hosted IDNR director Colleen Callahan and later Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton to discuss the situation. “I wanted to bring awareness to the director of IDNR, who had responsibility for Bishop Hill, and also the lieutenant governor to try and bring attention at the executive level to what we were dealing with,” he told Our Quad Cities News via Zoom. “Fortunately, they both agreed that hey, something needs to be done. Unfortunately, nothing was done.” Swanson said the lack of maintenance has led to the need for drastic renovations at both Bishop Hill and the Carl Sandburg birthplace in Galesburg. “It's been ignored for so long that those things that need to be patched and fixed and it needs to be done quickly. Deferred maintenance creates larger maintenance issues.” He says an $800 million budget shortfall for the state is part of the problem. “It (the deferred maintenance) didn't happen overnight. It's been a long, progressive event and we've continued to bring that to the attention of others, and it just seems to be falling on deaf ears.” Swanson says residents who are concerned about these sites can contact the state’s executive branch by emailing, calling or writing to the governor. “I feel we’re well represented in the district with Representative Weaver and Senator (Neil) Anderson (R, 47th District). They know the concerns. I know the concerns. Senator (Mike) Halpin (D-72nd District) is involved, and he understands the concerns.” Swanson recently spoke on the House floor about Senate Bill 2976. Among other things, the bill would remove distinctions between state historic sites, state memorials and miscellaneous properties. It would authorize the State Historic Preservation Board to modify, remove or add properties to the list of state historic sites. “State-owned properties like the Carl Sandburg Birthplace and Bishop Hill have been neglected and deprioritized for too long,” said Travis Weaver (R-Edwards). “I am optimistic this legislation will help these properties get the attention they need. Carl Sandburg’s birthplace in Galesburg is also in dire need of repairs, said Swanson. “The roof, leaking ceilings need repaired. The list is quite lengthy; close to a half million dollars in repairs required there.” Repairing these sites is more than protecting history, he said. “It's important, we need to get these fixed. They bring in revenue; we forget that they bring in revenue to our state and to our cities and to our counties.” Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as organizing a fundraiser or GoFundMe page for the repairs. “The estimates for Bishop Hill are around $22 million. That's a lot of money for an association to try and tackle. It's gonna take a big crew to come in and bring it back up to any type of standards. I know there have been some people who have said hey, I'd like to help donate but $22 million and then a half million dollars in Galesburg? So yeah, it's a lot of money.” Bishop Hill has played a big part in Swanson’s family. “It's just so many memories there. Not only my generation, my dad's generation, my grandfather's generation, going there to Bishop Hill for family reunions at Bishop Hill Park. As a child, we would go there often for Fourth of July celebrations and other events. I actually took a class at Western Illinois University called Bishop Hill, a couple of weekend classes, so I learned a lot more details.” “We've had several Honor Flight fundraisers there. But it would be to bring tears to many people's eyes if we're not able to save the church and other sites in Bishop Hill and Galesburg.”
	Clark signs multiyear deal with Wilson Sporting Goods for signature basketball line The No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft will also test, advise and provide feedback on a range of Wilson basketball products.
	At least four killed in Greenfield tornado, neighbors say Greenfield, Iowa residents say four of their neighbors did not survive the devastating storms that passed through the area on Tuesday, the Des Moines Register reports.
	Hawkeyes to play two Friday football games First, the Hawks will travel to Pasadena to take on new Big Ten team UCLA at the Rose Bowl stadium for a November 8th matchup.
	Registration now open for annual Gilda's Club 'Run for Hope' The 5K & 1-mile Fun Run will take place in Coal Valley on Saturday, June 29. Funds will go toward Gilda's Club Quad Cities, benefitting families impacted by cancer.
	Galesburg selects new director of finance The City of Galesburg has selected a candidate to fill the position of director of finance.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: JOSE RODRIGUEZ-LOPEZ, 22, 6’0”, 220 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Rock Island County warrant for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. MATTHEW ROWE, 28, 5’11”, 165 pounds, brown hair, green eyes. Rock Island County warrant for two counts of felony theft. Jose Rodriguez-Lopez (L) and Matthew Rowe (Crime Stoppers) You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at (309) 762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	Sterling schools enter lockdown after threat, discovery of man with loaded firearm near high school Two separate instances lead to a limited access lockdown across the district on Tuesday.
	Iowa women’s basketball assistant coach Jenni Fitzgerald to retire Iowa women’s basketball Special Assistant to the Head Coach, Jenni Fitzgerald, is retiring.
	Downtown Rock Island street closes for gas leak 4th Avenue in downtown Rock Island shut down at 24th Street early this afternoon for a natural gas leak, according to Rock Island Fire Department. The downtown construction crew hit a gas line Wednesday, and Rock Island Fire, Moline Fire, Metronet, and MidAmerican Energy were at the scene to repair it, and block off the area.
	Keegan Murray to tee off at John Deere Classic Pro-Am Former Iowa Hawkeye basketball star Keegan Murray will tee off during this year's John Deere Classic Pro-Am.
	Deputies: Man dies after tractor rolled in Dubuque Co. A Dyersville man is dead after a tractor rolled in Dubuque County Sunday, deputies say.
	Hy-Vee responds to concerns over closing Iowa stores, offers measures to ease transition The Rockingham Road stores officially close in June.
	Illinois Department of Public Health issues warning regarding animals with rabies Scientists in Illinois recently discovered two bats with rabies in Cook and Will Counties. Officials want to remind residents to get their pets vaccinated.
	Buildings in Davenport industrial park sold for $42M JLL announced today that it has closed a $42.6-million sale of Buildings 1 and 6 in the Russell Industrial Park in Davenport, to a private, unnamed buyer. The buildings acquired total 380,000 square feet on behalf of Russell, a Davenport-based construction and development firm. A private buyer acquired the 100% leased buildings, according to a Wednesday release from the JLL Des Moines team. The Russell Industrial Park covers 95 acres at 8730 Northwest Blvd., Davenport. The 95-acre industrial park is located at 8730 Northwest Blvd. in Davenport and consists of six buildings totaling nearly 1.5 million square feet. Notable tenants in this transaction include Nestlé Purina, PODS, Crescent Electric and Tube and Solid Tire, JLL said. JLL’s Michael Minard, Senior Vice President, Marcus Pitts, Senior Managing Director, Austin Hedstrom, Executive Vice President and Tanner Hedstrom, Vice President, represented the seller, Russell, in the transaction. According to JLL Des Moines’ 2024 Q1 Industrial Outlook, the industrial real estate market is experiencing robust momentum, exemplified by the completion of several significant projects in the first quarter of the year. In Q2, the market can anticipate a surge in leasing activity as multiple major warehouse users are actively searching for available space, the company said. “A premier destination for companies to build their warehousing and logistics operations in, this industrial portfolio takes full advantage of the market’s comprehensive transportation network,” said Minard. “The sale demonstrates one of, if not the biggest, sale transaction in the Quad Cities in the last 20 years.” The location of the industrial park is near I-80 and the Davenport Municipal Airport. “We are proud to be at the forefront of the industrial expansion that has taken place in the Quad Cities region in recent years,” Damen Trebilcock, vice president at Russell, said in the release. “Our partners on this project keep pushing us to do more. Building 3 is ready for lease and will be delivered this fall.” Adjacent to Davenport Municipal Airport, the Russell Industrial Park offers immediate access to the region’s interstates, river barges and distributor facilities. The buildings feature 34 docks, 28-to-36 foot clear heights and LED warehouse lighting. The industrial park’s six new buildings total 1,469,340 square feet. JLL is a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, that helps clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. It’s a Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $20.8 billion and operations in over 80 countries.
	QC foundation approves $202,000 in new grants The Moline Regional Community Foundation Board has approved grants of $202,000 for 35 area nonprofit organizations. The funds will be used for capital and program expenses, according to a Wednesday press release. Paul Plagenz, president/CEO of Moline Regional Community Foundation “These grants are focused on improving our area residents' quality of life through support of arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, and human services programs and capital needs,” Paul Plagenz, president/CEO of Moline Regional Community Foundation, said in the release. “Generous financial support from our donors made these awards a reality and shows how giving in action can profoundly change lives.” “We are grateful to the Moline Regional Community Foundation for giving us the opportunity to expand our impact within the community,” said Kim Harrison, executive director of Mercer County Family Crisis Center, which received $25,000. “For 40 years, we have been serving Mercer County by providing support, advocacy, and education on domestic violence and child abuse. The generous gift from the foundation will allow us to broaden our efforts and reach even more people,” she said. Butterworth Center, at 1105 8th St., Moline, is getting a $20,000 grant for capital renovations. Among the largest grants from the foundation (which serves the region) are: Butterworth Center, Moline -- $20,000 for capital renovations. Two Rivers YMCA -- $10,000 for summer day camp and Nourish program. Youth Service Bureau of Rock Island County -- $7,500 for counseling at-risk youth. Quad Cities Golf Classic Charitable Foundation -- $7,500 for military outpost program. Humble Dwellings -- $7,500 for From Plastic Bags and Tubs to Dressers program. Hauberg Civic Center -- $7,500 for sustainable revenue development project. Habitat for Humanity -- $7,500 for making homes accessible. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Valley -- $7,500 for out-of-school programming for underserved youth. An award ceremony will be held at the Butterworth Center (1105 8th St., Moline) on Wednesday, June 6th, starting at 8:30 a.m. For more information on Moline Regional Community Foundation, click HERE.
	REVIEW: The House of Blue Leaves at Playcrafters Barn Theatre The House of Blue Leaves continues at Playcrafters Barn Theatre, 4950 – 35th Avenue in Moline, Friday and Saturday, May 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 26 at 3:00 p.m.
	REVIEW: To Kill A Mockingbird at The Black Box Theatre To Kill a Mockingbird continues at The Black Box Theatre Thursday through Saturday, May 23 through 25 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, May 26 at 2:00 p.m.
	Task Force: 80-year-old man shot by East Moline police has died The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force is investigating the incident.
	Maquoketa’s Eagles Club damaged as strong winds, severe weather sweeps through Tuesday night Severe weather involving strong winds swept across the state of Iowa Tuesday evening. Maquoketa was one of the towns that reported damages including devastation to the Eagle’s Club.
	LIVE: Gov. Reynolds to speak in Greenfield after devastating storms Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds will be in Greenfield Wednesday morning to see the damage caused by Tuesday’s storms.
	Register now for River Action Senior Golf Tours Registration is now open for River Action’s Senior Golf Cart Tours on September 5-6. This year’s offerings include a tour of the Arsenal Island in the early evening, giving participants an usually unseen look at the Mississippi River and the island. There are tours on both sides of the river, with Illinois side tours on Thursday, September 5 and Iowa side tours on Friday, September 6. Each cart, which can hold two people, is $30. Seniors who can’t drive themselves can arrange for a driver during registration. Tours available this year include: Illinois Tour A: Tour the Rock Island Arsenal’s beautiful riverfront trail, with stops at the Col. Davenport House, the 1856 Bridge Pier, the Civil War Confederate prisoner of war camp, the National Cemetery, the Colonel's Row of Quarters and the historic Rock Island Arsenal Quarters One commander's home. A valid ID is necessary to enter Arsenal Island. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., 2 – 4 p.m. and the Twilight Tour from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Illinois Tour B: Visit Rock Island and Moline riverfront, starting at Sunset Park, going to Ben Butterworth Parkway and returning to Sunset Park. There will be speeches in both Moline and Rock Island. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Illinois Tour C: This tour starts in Rapids City and moves through Port Byron to Cordova and back. There will be speakers in each community. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Iowa Tour D: This tour travels along Duck Creek Trail, starting in Davenport and turning around in Bettendorf. Speakers from each city’s Planning and Public Works Departments will brief participants on new developments along the route. Available time slots are 9 – 11 am., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Iowa Tour E: This tour starts at Miller Avenue and S. Concord Street. Speakers will focus on the new wetlands and trails at Nahant Marsh. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Iowa Tour F: Visit the Davenport and Bettendorf riverfronts, starting at Credit Island and moving to Leach Park and back. Speakers from both cities will update participants on new developments along the route. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Click here for more information or to register.
	Moline Library Gardens to have groundbreakng The Moline Public Library invites the community to celebrate the start of the $1.4-million Moline Gardens project on Tuesday, May 28 at 4 p.m., at 3210 41st St. Local dignitaries and supporters will make brief remarks, then break ground in the future Gardens area, located on the south side of the library building, according to a Wednesday release. Beginning in 2021, the Moline Library Gardens developed out of a desire to create a unique expansion to the library, where the community can gather in a welcoming and inviting outdoor space. The Library Board of Trustees enlisted two local businesses, Shive-Hattery Architecture and Engineering and Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities, to undertake the project, the library said. The Gardens is expected to be completed in the spring of 2025. “The Moline Library Gardens is a significant milestone in our continuing efforts to enhance the library experience for all patrons,” said Bryon Lear, Moline Public Library director. “This groundbreaking ceremony will be the culmination of several years of planning and collaboration. It will be an exciting day for everyone involved in this project.” Among the Gardens’ many features include a multi-use pavilion and stage, flexible event lawn, an interactive story loop, butterfly garden, and multiple areas for gathering, reading, or participating in library events. Through May 27, tote bags designed and made by the Teen Library Council are on sale to support the Gardens. Plain and tie-dyed totes are now available at the 2nd Floor Information Desk or order online HERE. Tote bags are for sale through May 27 to benefit the Moline Library Gardens project. The totes are $7 each and all proceeds go to support the Moline Library Gardens. To learn more about the Moline Library Gardens, click HERE.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for May 22, 2024 Sterling High School was on temporary lockdown due to an unrelated traffic stop, and a shooting victim from East Moline died from their injuries.
	Muscatine County Supervisors deny zoning request The request had been previously approved 3-2 by the county planning and zoning commission. The county staff had recommended against rezoning the property.
	Former Muscatine County corrections officer charged with possession of child pornography A former Muscatine County Corrections officer has been charged with multiple counts of possession of child pornography.
	Davenport Speedway guarantees action-packed night When the cars and stars of the Malvern Bank SLMR East Series come to Davenport Speedway on Friday, May 24, it will mark the 10th time in series history. It is five more than any other track in the series that started in 2020, according to a news release. The best late model drivers in the region will be on hand to race for the $3,000 first place prize. Support classes at Davenport Speedway will be IMCA Modifieds, Sport Mods, and Hobby Stocks. The modifieds will be competing for $1,000-to-win. The modified feature is also a qualifier for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational. Modifieds will have a $30 entry fee for Friday’s race. Grandstand admission will be $25 for adults, $10 for children (5-10), and kids (4 and under) are free. Pit passes are $40 for adults, $25 for children (10 and under). The pit gate opens at 3:30 p.m., and hot laps are at 6:30 p.m., with racing to follow. Friday is also Scott County Cattleman’s Association Night at Davenport Speedway. For more information, visit SR Promotions on Facebook.
	'We will find you': Moline police arrest man accused of post-prom double murder At a press conference Tuesday, Moline police said a Davenport man has been charged with killing Zachary Meincke and Giovanni Flores.
	Pleasant Valley High School junior Tanya Rastogi turns to art, poetry Pleasant Valley junior Tanya Rastogi, the 2024 Iowa Student Poet Ambassador, didn’t become interested in poetry until her sophomore year.
	Muscatine Aquatic Center to open May 25 Muscatine Parks and Recreation announced the Aquatic Center will open for the season Saturday, May 25 at 12:00 p.m. The center will be closed Sunday, May 26 due to the Melon City Criterium in Weed Park. The facility will reopen on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27 and be closed May 28-29. Daily operations are scheduled to begin Thursday, May 30. The Aquatic Center's hours of operation are 1200-8:00 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Registration for programs offered by the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department is still open, but the deadline is May 30 at 5:00 p.m. For more information, click here.
	Orion trustees approve project to alleviate drainage issue Orion trustees approved a $52,171 bid from Porter Brothers Construction of Rock Falls for a sewer extension at 10th Street and 14th Avenue B.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 22, 2024 Thomas Edward Crosby, 90, of Geneseo, IL, passed away on May 19, 2024, at his home in Geneseo, IL. Arrangements are pending with Wendt Funeral Home, Moline, IL.
	Buried Stories: Louie Bellson (1924-2009) Luigi Paul Balassone Sr. moved his music story to 1171 Fifth Avenue in Moline, Illinois, when his son Louie was a child. As Louie later said, “My dad had taught me practically every aria from every Italian opera.” He added, “It’s all music, whether it’s opera or jazz, and maybe you can hear a little of both in what I play.”
Tuesday, May 21st, 2024
	Strong winds and severe weather sweep through QCA damaging Maquoketa’s Eagles Club Severe weather involving strong winds swept across the state of Iowa Tuesday evening. Maquoketa was one of the towns that reported damages including devastation to the Eagle’s Club.
	NWS to assess storm and tornado damage on Wednesday The severe weather threat has ended for Tuesday night in our area. There were many wind, hail and even a tornado report in the local area Tuesday. The National Weather Service will review storm reports from today and then likely send out a damage survey crew to hardest hit areas on Wednesday. That could take them the the Wilton, IA area where there was likely a tornado on Tuesday. Other areas to consider include NW Clinton County, and Jackson County in and around Maquoketa. We'll have full details on what they determine caused today's damage (mainly outside of QC metro area) on Wednesday.
	USPS defending modernization efforts to Congress Lawmakers asked the agency to hold off on some changes, including one that would've moved services from Milan to Des Moines.
	Moline Police arrest man in connection to double homicide that killed 2 teenagers Moline police have arrested a Davenport man in connection to a May 5 double homicide that left two teenagers dead.
	LIVE UPDATES: Severe storms move through Iowa, Illinois Tuesday StormTrack8 is monitoring the storm as it passes through the Quad Cities area. Here are live updates to keep you weather aware.
	Gov. Reynolds to visit Greenfield Wednesday, issues statement on impact of severe weather Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued the following statement regarding the impact of severe weather across the state of Iowa Tuesday.
	Nurse wins DAISY Award for organizeing early graduation for cancer patient’s children At Trinity Cancer Center, one nurse’s dedication has won him the prestigious DAISY Award, a symbol of exemplary care and compassion.
	Weather blog: Power outages persist in rural Scott, Cedar, Clinton counties Click here for live updates on the weather in the QCA.
	Programming note: The Voice re-air time Due to severe weather coverage, the end of The Voice will re-air early Wednesday morning.
	Primary Elections: Here are the questions that candidates for Congress should answer Iowa will have three Congressional Districts that have contested primaries on June 4, including two Republican incumbents.
	MidAmerican Energy reports power outages across QCA Multiple power outages have been reported across the Quad Cities Area in both Iowa and Illinois by MidAmerican Energy.
	Davenport man accused of sexually abusing 8-year-old A Davenport man is facing a charge of sexual abuse after police alleged he improperly touched an 8-year-old child.
	Man convicted in fatal 2019 Davenport crash faces more felony charges A 24-year-old Davenport man previously convicted in a fatal 2019 crash was arrested again after Eldridge Police allege he led officers on a chase Monday. Angel Ochoa faces felony charges of controlled substance violation and failure to affix a drug-tax stamp, along with obstructing prosecution or defense, an aggravated misdemeanor, and eluding, a serious misdemeanor, court records show. Angel Ochoa (Scott County Jail) Shortly before 9:42 p.m. Monday, according to arrest affidavits, Ochoa was observed driving a Honda Accord without license plates. “A temporary registration tag was not immediately visible,” police say in affidavits. Ochoa failed to stop for emergency lights and sirens, and officers saw him throw two separate items out of the driver-side window onto the road, police allege in affidavits. Police confirmed Ochoa’s license was suspended. “A fraudulent temporary tag was observed in the back window on the passenger side and the VIN, make and model did not match (the) vehicle,” affidavits say. “A strong odor of marijuana emitted from the inside of the vehicle.” When officers backtracked the path before Ochoa stopped, a plastic bag with 50 grams of marijuana was found, according to affidavits, which show “The vehicle was searched and additional buds of marijuana were found. (Ochoa) did not affix required tax stamp to marijuana.” Ochoa, who, police say, admitted to throwing the located item out the window, had $2,754 in cash in his pants pocket, affidavits show. A fatal crash in 2019 In June of 2019, a Davenport woman was killed after a crash that happened during a police chase. Iowa State Patrol says Ochoa, then 19, was involved in the death of 48-year-old Lori Ann Letts. It happened around 2 p.m. June 13, 2019, when Davenport police say they tried to stop Ochoa’s car at Division Street and Northwest Boulevard. Officers say Ochoa hit the gas, and they chased him to Kimberly Road. Police say he ran a red light at Fairmount Street and hit Letts’ car. She died at the scene. Ochoa and an 18-year-old passenger in his car were taken to Genesis Medical Center – East Campus. Ochoa was sentenced after he pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle, for which he was sentenced to a period not to exceed 10 years; serious injury by vehicle, sentenced to a period not to exceed five years; and interference with official acts, sentenced to a period not to exceed five years. The sentences in the last two charges were to be served concurrently, or at the same time, to each other but consecutive, or after, to the sentence for homicide by vehicle, court records say. Officials documents show Ochoa was on parole. He was released on his own recognizance to appear June 7 in Scott County Court for a preliminary hearing.
	Gov. Reynolds issues disaster emergency for 15 counties impacted by severe weather Tuesday, Governor Kim Reynolds authorized a proclamation of disaster emergency for 15 counties in response to severe weather that occurred across the state.
	Meta named as company looking to build data center in Davenport, report says Meta was named as the company looking to build a high-tech data center in Davenport, according to a report from Iowa Economic Development.
	Quad Cities host government contracting symposium 2024's speakers focused on technological advancements and enhancing cybersecurity.
	Moline Police arrest suspect in connection to May 5 double homicide Moline police have arrested a Davenport man in connection to a May 5 double homicide that left two teenagers dead.
	Severe weather could change Our Quad Cities programming In light of severe weather hitting the QCA, some programming changes may occur for some of Our Quad Cities stations. On WHBF, it will be our intention to air any preempted portion of CBS programming at 12:35 a.m. after 'After Midnight.' It will be our intention to displace primetime programming on KGCW and KLJB until 10:00 p.m., when the front should be out of our area. Fox 18 - KLJB 7:00 p.m. - 'Modern Family' 7:30 p.m. - 'Modern Family' 8:00 p.m. - 'Mom' 8:30 p.m. - 'The Neighborhood' 9:00 p.m. - 'Our Quad Cities News' 9:30 p.m. - 'Our Quad Cities News' 10:00 p.m. - 'The Cleaning Lady' The Quad Cities CW - KGCW 7:00 p.m. - 'Seinfeld' 7:30 p.m. - 'Seinfeld'8:00 p.m. - 'Bob's Burgers' 8:30 p.m. - 'Bob's Burgers'9:00 p.m. - 'Two and Half Men' 9:30 p.m. - 'Two and Half Men' 10:00 p.m. - 'Police 24/7' 11:00 p.m. - 'Hostage Rescue' Stay tuned to Our Quad Cities News on-air and online for weather updates.
	Rock Island alum headed to the Paris Olympics Courtney Lindsey will be competing on the USA men's track team.
	MidAmerican warns public not to approach downed power lines Severe weather is set to move through the region Tuesday night, which could result in power outages across the area.

Thursday, May 23rd, 2024

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024