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

Tuesday, May 28th, 2024

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Quad Cities area flood watch: Wapsipinicon River reaches major flood stage levels

The Mississippi River is expected to crest at 14.2 feet by Sunday morning. The flood stage for the river is 15 feet.

KWQC TV-6  Rock Island-Milan School District to offer free summer meals in June KWQC TV-6

Rock Island-Milan School District to offer free summer meals in June

The Rock Island-Milan School District said they’ll be offering free meals during the month of June.

OurQuadCities.com Davenport church forgives man who robbed them OurQuadCities.com

Davenport church forgives man who robbed them

On the cover of the Sunday, May 26 bulletin at Davenport’s Zion Lutheran Church, parishioners could read a heartfelt letter from the young man who broke in and robbed their house of worship last month. Writing from Scott County Jail, 24-year-old Trenton Stewart apologized to the congregation, after receiving many notes from church members. One such note from a Zion member said in part: “The role of the church is love, grace and forgiveness. I am sorry there are conditions in your life that led you to take from our church. You are welcome here.” Trenton Stewart, 24, wrote back to the church from Scott County Jail, Davenport. The following letter—handwritten by Stewart and dated May 7—was delivered to Zion Monday, May 20: “I know you guys did not deserve that at all. No matter how much I want to put it on a heavy drug addiction... The truth is that I let the devil into my heart. No matter what I was wrong. I never would of imagined to receive a letter from you guys... I'm in my cell now writing this letter feeling guilty but very loved at the same time. Thank you so much, I really loved all of the notes you have wrote me!! “Even though I was in a tough situation... I also know I put myself into that tough situation... I'm just sorry that I brought my troubles unto all of you guys and destroyed your guys church all at the same time. “I’m honestly expecting to go to prison for all of this and I know God will be with me during this as long as I stay strong in faith in him. Zion Lutheran is at 1216 W. 8th St., Davenport. “I absolutely know and understand if not, but I really don't have nobody, my mom is the only I but she is in a abusive relationship... Anyways she really can't because he'll flip-out on my mom but if you would be able to help me out with a few bucks on my books that would be if not amazing. “I'm understanding completely if not... I know my Grandpa “David” was Lutheran and he used to say “Ask & you shall receive" but he also used to say “The Golden Rule: Treat ppl the way that you want to be treated" And for that I am sorry for not following The Golden Rule... I am deeply sorry & would love to keep writing letters back & forth, it made at least my world a little brighter when I got some mail thank you.” Stewart drew a heart and inside, he wrote: “Thank you for writing me hopefully I will hear back soon. Please keep me in your guys prayers! Please send more encouraging notes. Please teach me more about God, it’s pretty dark in here. Thank you for not judging me nor hating me... I promise I’m a good person just lost sometimes...” $15,000 insurance claim Two days after police arrested Stewart Tuesday in connection with a burglary at the Probstei Inn Bar & Grill in Davenport, police responded to the burglary alarm at Zion Lutheran, 1216 W. 8th St., Davenport, Thursday night, April 25, 2024. Zion Lutheran Church is at 8th and Marquette streets, Davenport. Stewart was in custody that Saturday, April 27, and he faces a felony charge of third-degree burglary, an aggravated misdemeanor charge of third-degree theft and a serious misdemeanor charge of fourth-degree criminal mischief, according to arrest affidavits. Olson-Smith said the church has recovered a few items that were stolen, including parts of the security system, but two laptops are gone, and the church has replaced stolen microphones. It has submitted an insurance claim valued at $15,000. During worship on Sunday, May 5, Zion people wrote to Stewart in Scott County Jail. “I've felt strongly that I myself wanted to reach out to him and I wasn't quite sure what to say,” Olson-Smith said Tuesday, stressing forgiveness and second chances. He invited church members to write notes to Stewart, and about 30 did, offering compassion, support and forgiveness. Olson-Smith said one of the problems with the criminal justice system in general is that “it separates us at a time when there's an opportunity to bring people together. I would hope that healing is the goal and not just punishment, right?” he said. “He's likely going to prison and who knows for how long, you know? He's not really paying a debt to Zion by going to prison,” the pastor said. “At least there could be some reconciliation. I think the line that really stuck out to me from his letter was -- I'm sitting here in my cell now writing to you feeling guilty and very loved. And that's kind of the thing that's the beginning of what I hope is the ability for him to change his life.” Moved by response Olson-Smith said many church members were very moved by Stewart’s response. “Just to hear anything at all felt like a small miracle,” he said. “I could imagine a response of like, ‘screw these guys’ and he would throw it in the trash.” Pastor Clark Olson-Smith, right, giving a children's message at Zion Lutheran, Davenport. “There at the end, he asked us to keep sending encouraging notes and he said, ‘Please keep teaching me about God. It's dark in here’,” Olson-Smith said. “It's just heartbreaking, you know, heartbreaking.” In a May 21 letter to Stewart (after receiving his response), the pastor encouraged him to turn his life around. “God brings life out of death and good out of bad,” Olson-Smith wrote. “Today’s mistakes can be tomorrow’s testimony about the forgiveness and saving power of Jesus.” “Jesus was always where suffering was, and Jesus healed people in the here and now,” his letter said. “Christians sometimes push that healing down the road to some distant future and reserve it only for the ‘worthy.’ But that was not Jesus’s way, which was a big part of his conflict with the religious leaders of his day. Jesus healed anyone who really wanted to be healed, and that was too much for people who thought they didn't need any healing.” Trenton Stewart's jail mug shot from April 2021. Among his arrest record, in April 2021, at age 21 Stewart was charged with burglary and theft after breaking into a home in the 1900 block of W. 36th Street, Davenport, using a screwdriver and other tools. He entered a locked garage, then went into the residence and retrieved the keys for the vehicle in the garage. Last month, police allege that, once Stewart was inside the Probstei Inn (6315 W. Kimberly Rd., Davenport), he stole various business checks belonging to Probstei Inn, along with a safe. An hour later on the same day, court records say, Davenport Police responded to CBI Bank & Trust, 2322 E. Kimberly Road, Davenport, in reference to fraud. Arrest affidavits say Stewart entered CBI Bank & Trust with a forged check belonging to Probstei Inn. Court records say the defendant did this twice at different times, and was captured on surveillance footage.

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Free kids meals at Rock Island High School in June

The Rock Island-Milan School District is offering breakfast and lunch at no cost to children 18 and under during the month of June, regardless of income level or school district boundary area. The meals will be served at Rock Island High School, 1400 25th Avenue in Rock Island from June 5 – 27. Breakfast will be served from 7:30-8 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. All meals must be eaten on-site. Call the RIMSD #41 Nutrition Services Department at (309) 793-5900, ext. 10220 with any questions. Families can find other meal sites in Illinois by calling (800) 359-2163 or clicking here.

KWQC TV-6  Heavy police presence at Empire Park KWQC TV-6

Heavy police presence at Empire Park

They are extracting the vehicle, and KWQC is speaking with the chief of police.

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Nominations open for Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce's Fiesta Parade Grand Marshal

Nominations are now open for the 71st annual Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s Fiesta Parade Grand Marshal. The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s Hispanic Business Leaders Committee is hosting the parade. Nominees, including individuals, groups or organizations must meet certain criteria to be nominated, including: Nominees should be known by the public as having made a significant contribution to Sterling and Rock Falls. They have inspired others to become more involved in efforts to assist the community. The person/group has shown outstanding volunteerism in the community. A person has demonstrated an act of heroism and continues serving people in the community. They have helped establish goals for community development and saw them followed through. The nominee is dedicated to improving opportunities for all people in the emotional, physical and social environment where they live. Contact the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce at (815) 625-2400, click here or email knoble@saukvalleyareachamber.com to nominate a person, group or organization. Nominations must be received by July 15th to be considered. The parade will start at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 14, beginning in Rock Falls. Parade entries will line up on 10th Street. The parade will travel north on First Avenue in Rock Falls and cross the First Avenue bridge into Sterling. The parade will turn left onto Second Street at the base of the bridge and travel north on Locust Street to Third Street, then turning west (left) and continuing to Avenue C, where the parade will end. Click here to register for the parade.

OurQuadCities.com It's no mystery why family loves Richmond Hill OurQuadCities.com

It's no mystery why family loves Richmond Hill

Dana Skiles is a key part of what could be called the first family of Richmond Hill Players. The 36-year-old Geneseo High alum is the third generation of her family to be active in the 56-year-old organization, which presents six shows a year in a converted dairy barn in Richmond Hill Park, Geneseo. Dana Skiles and Tom Akers in the new production of "Laura" at Richmond Hill, Geneseo. Granddaughter of one of the company’s founders, and daughter of RHP veterans Mike and Jackie Skiles, Dana has her first lead – the title role in the classic mystery “Laura” by Vera Caspary & George Sklar, based on Caspary’s novel (adapted into a popular 1944 film). The show will be presented Thursdays through Sundays, May 30-June 9 at the Barn Theatre in Geneseo. John Donald O’Shea, Moline, directs the show. Skiles wanted to be in “Laura” for many reasons – including it’s a lead for a character that’s her age, the story blends mystery and romance, and Skiles’s maternal grandmother was named Laura, and she was a founding member of RHP in 1968. “In the program, I am dedicating my performance to her because she passed away back in 2018,” Skiles said recently. “I’m very sad she's not here to see the show, but I'd like to think she's gonna look down and be proud.”  The Laura character doesn’t make her entrance until about 14 pages into the script, but once she does, she basically never leaves the stage, Skiles said. “It's a very large role. So I wanted to do it proud,” she said. “I made sure that I got my lines memorized early. I try to kind of lead by example because we've got several new people in the cast. So I tried to be a good influence on them and like coming in off book and being collaborative with the other actors and trying to work things out and kind of bring them into the fold and stuff like that.” Eric Friedman, left, Dana Skiles, Jim Strauss, and Perry Farley in "Laura." In the story, when Laura Hunt is shot-gunned to death at the door of her upscale New York apartment, detective Mark McPherson is assigned to investigate the case. In the process, he meets the three men in her life, peruses her personal effects and letters, and falls in love with Laura — or, at least, with her portrait which hangs above her mantel. Then, when Laura appears at the door of her apartment, McPherson realizes the victim has obviously been misidentified. So, who was the woman killed at the apartment door? What was she doing there? And who killed her? Suspicion falls on Laura’s friend and mentor Waldo Lydecker, on her fiancé Shelby Carpenter, on Danny Dorgan, a brilliant young pianist and friend of Laura, on Danny’s mother, who believes Laura is a corrupting influence on Danny, or perhaps, even upon Laura herself. Dana Skiles, right, in "Unnecessary Farce" at Richmond Hill in November 2023. Skiles was last on stage at the Barn Theatre last November in “Unnecessary Farce” and directed the iconic thriller “Misery” in June 2023. She likes both directing and acting. “It’s weird because both give you that rush of satisfaction of seeing where the show started and then seeing it come to fruition during performances and it's just a completely different perspective whether you're on stage or backstage, but it still gives you that that sense of pride no matter what,” she said. “It's really difficult to say which one I enjoy more because it's similar but different.” As a director, Skiles feels more pressure early in rehearsals, when she figures out blocking, props and costumes. “It's crazy pressure. But when you're an actor, the pressure's on once the audience is in the seats,” she said. “Coming in as a director, you wanna have all your ducks in a row and you wanna get all the things done that need to get done because that sets everybody up for success. If you've got all that going for you, then the actors have a much easier time and they're under less stress until the show starts. “But then once you're on stage, if you miss a line or you forget like, oh dang it, my entrance was a little bit too late today or something like that, the only thing you can do is try again,” Skiles said. Director as a parent  “This is gonna sound weird from somebody who's not a parent, but I kind of liken it to being a parent as a director,” she said. “You're the parent that you're trying to set your kids up and opening night is like sending them off to college and you hope that you taught them right.“As the actor, you're kind of the child where like they're kind of holding your hand and guiding you through the rehearsals and then once production starts, you don't have that safety net anymore,” she said. While Skiles hasn’t forgotten lines on stage, she was in a comedy several years ago called “Bingo,” and there was a gun that was supposed to go off and it jammed. “And so it was just clicking and thankfully it was a comedy. So one of the crew members off stage just yelled ‘Bang!’ and then they just proceeded as if the gun went off. So that was terrifying in the moment, but it was funny afterwards,” she recalled. Dana's mother, Jackie Skiles, and Jonathan Grafft in the June 2023 production of the Stephen King thriller "Misery." She prefers acting in comedies, but directing dramas, like last year’s Misery,” which co-starred her mother as the unhinged Annie Wilkes, “number-one fan” of author Paul Sheldon, played by Jonathan Grafft, both RHP veterans. “It was nice because the two main people that I had for that show are very experienced actors. I knew they would do a good job,” Dana said. “If I told them, hey, you need to be more menacing during the scene or you need to be more scared during this scene, they just took it and ran with it and did exactly what I wanted. "I didn't have to really dig and pull anything out of them because they wanted it to be a great show too.” It was unsettling to see her mom as such an evil person in the play. “She scared the crap out of me several times,” Skiles said. Jackie Skiles as Annie Wilkes in "Misery," directed by Dana Skiles. “There were some times where I'm like, pretend that I just came home and tell you and told you I got an F on my math test. That's how mad I want you to be. And then I started having like childhood flashbacks of like, no, don't yell at me. “It was weird because I know she's acting and because I'm telling her to do these things, like, be more menacing and be terrifying, you know, and all this other stuff,” Dana said. You have to disconnect from the fact of the person and just view them as the character.” A quarter-century of plays Her parents have been part of RHP for 25 years. Mike started building sets and just helping out in crew. Mike is co-stage managing “Laura.” “Then he did a few acting roles and then my mom was doing acting and stage managing and stuff like that and then it just eventually branched out to my dad's was like, ‘I'd like to try my hand at directing’ because he saw me directing and saw how much I loved it,” Dana said. “Yeah, I'll give it a shot. And so he likes it.” Justin Raver and Dana Skiles in "Drinking Habits" at RHP in April 2022. The first RHP show she directed was “I Take This Man” in 2013, and the first one Mike directed was “The Odd Couple” in 2014. Dana did a few shows at Geneseo High, but concentrated more on RHP with the smaller casts. “A lot of times I couldn't because the schedules overlap and rather than be a small part in a play with 20 other kids, I'd rather be in a show of cast of six,” she said.Skiles doesn’t feel extra pressure because RHP is such an intimate theater, in the round, with audiences on all four sides. “You earn tricks on how to kind of ignore the audience. But at the same time, I love that there's audience on all sides because I know that whatever I do whatever direction I face, somebody's gonna see it,” she said. “So it kind of forces you to stay in character no matter what direction you're facing.” “Especially in a comedy when you are standing there and you do something and you can hear people, they're so close that you can pick out certain people's laughter,” Skiles said. “When there's somebody in the audience and you hear them laugh, it just gives you so much more energy to keep going and pump it up even more.” Her favorite comedy was “Unnecessary Farce” because it was so physical, and directed by Grafft. “Jonathan Grafft was fantastic as a director because he was very much a collaborative director where he's like, hey, this is what I want to do. If it feels weird, come up with another option, we'll try it -- so that it's really nice to have a director like that,” Skiles said. She tries to take that approach when she directs. “I make sure to tell everybody that yes, I am the director and technically what I say goes, but. especially during the first couple weeks of rehearsal, if you wanna try something just let me know we'll try it and I'll tell you yay or nay,” Skiles said. “So it is a team effort because at the end of the day, they're the ones on stage, they're the ones doing it. If it feels awkward to them, it's gonna look awkward to the audience.”  Dana Skiles and Jonathan Friedhoff in "Laura," which opens Thursday, May 30. Skiles’s full-time job is in the gas mapping department of MidAmerican Energy. “In both aspects of my life, job and hobby, I feel like I'm kind of following in my parents' footsteps because my mom is the one who first convinced me to start acting and it was her mom that helped found it and everything,” she said. “I'm following her footsteps there. My dad was a gas mapper for 32 years and I've been doing it for almost seven years now.” Director and newcomer  John Donald O’Shea (who’s directed about 100 productions, including at Alleman High and Seton Catholic), was on stage in a 1967 version of “Laura” at the old Bettendorf Community Center, when he played Shelby. “It’s really a well-written show,” he said recently. “I’ve always remembered the play.” At RHP, he’s also directed “Out of Sight, Out of Murder,” “The Fantasticks” and a version of “Robin Hood.” He’d never worked with Dana before, but said she’s a really good actress. Eric Friedman and Dana Skiles in "Laura." O’Shea is impressed with newcomer Eric Friedman, who plays the detective. “He’s terrific,” the director said. “He’s a first-rate actor. You watch him on stage and it’s not haphazard; he’s really good.” Friedman was in his first RHP show in 2019, as an orderly in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” also directed by Dana. He was cast in 2020 in “Becky’s New Car” (to be directed by Jennifer Kingry), but it was canceled by COVID shutdowns and never rescheduled. Friedman was working at the Geneseo Fareway and two days after he was cast in “Laura,” in early March, he was transferred to the Muscatine Fareway, a little over an hour away. “It’s definitely one of the big roles,” he said of “Laura.” “It’s been kind of an adventure. Everybody’s been really helpful. Dana, she’s been awesome. She’s been giving me tips and tricks.” Friedman recorded many of his lines so he can listen to them on his commute during rehearsals. Skiles is directing the November 2024 show, a farce, “My Son Is Crazy But Promising.” “It is the exact opposite of ‘Misery’,” she said. “It is a cast of 14 and it is pure chaos. I like to change things up a little bit.” In that show, there are characters who believe in aliens, digging for buried treasure, Skiles noted. “We have a gangster who has a girlfriend who wants to be a Hollywood star, but she's the dimmest person ever. You know, just every caricature you can think of, including a Russian spy that tries to blow himself up.” Dana Skiles, right, in the RHP production of "Drinking Habits 2" from April 2023, with Nathan Johnson and Elizabeth Shaffer. The “Laura” cast also includes Perry Farley, Tricia Fox, Jonathan Friedhoff, Tom Akers, Alexandra Champagne and Jim Strauss.  On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 7:30. Sundays are 3 p.m. matinees with the doors opening at 2. Tickets are $12, available by calling the Richmond Hill box office at 309-944-2244or by visiting the website HERE. Late seating is not permitted; no one will be admitted to the theater after the show has started.  An audio description performance will be held Friday, May 31.  Richmond Hill also offers Assistive Listening Devices, which can be requested at the time that reservations are made. 

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324 Main St. city inspection photos from November 2020 to January 2021

Inspection photos spanning from Nov. 18, 2020, to Jan. 11, 2021 show conditions along the west wall prior to the 2023 partial collapse.

OurQuadCities.com Israel Martinez makes court appearance in first degree murder case, enters plea OurQuadCities.com

Israel Martinez makes court appearance in first degree murder case, enters plea

Israel Martinez made an appearance in court in Rock Island County this morning. He’s accused of two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of 17-year-old Giovanni Flores and 19-year-old Zachary Meincke, both of Moline on May 5. Israel Martinez (Scott County Jail) Martinez, 20 from Davenport, appeared in court for a preliminary hearing. Court records say he waived formal arraignment and reading of the charges and penalties. He pled not guilty and demanded a jury trial. Besides the two murder charges, both class M felonies, he’s also charged with two counts of aggravated battery/discharge of a firearm (class X felonies), two counts of aggravated battery/discharging a firearm near an occupied vehicle (class 1 felonies) and one count of obstruction of justice/destroying evidence (class 4 felony). Martinez continues to be held on no bond, according to court records. He’s set for a pretrial hearing in June.

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Hear about life in a big farm family at Bishop Hill author event

Author Bill Mueller will share his experiences growing up on a family farm with 10 brothers and sisters in his second book, Time to Ship Another Steer at a free presentation/book signing on Sunday, June 8 at 1 p.m. in Bishop Hill. The book’s title comes from how the family paid the bills on the farm. (BHHA) (BHHA) Mueller will offer simple ideas to help participants save their family histories during the presentation. He originally wrote Time to Ship Another Steer to share his family history with his grandchildren. The one-hour presentation and book signing will be in the Steeple Building Museum, 103 N. Bishop Hill Street in Bishop Hill. For more information, email the Bishop Hill Heritage Association at bhha@mymctc.net or call (309) 927-3899.

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Next Rock Island Unplugged is Wed.

In an effort to encourage open dialogue between Rock Island officials and residents, the city will hold another Rock Island Unplugged on Wednesday night, this time featuring Mayor Mike Thoms and department directors. The casual public-forum event allows residents to engage in a question-and-answer session with city officials and department directors outside the City Hall setting. The city has been holding “Rock Island Unplugged” events since 2018, and the next one is at Stern Center, 1713 3rd Ave., Rock Island, on Wednesday, May 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Rock Island Unplugged from Jan. 18, 2023. Residents may ask any city-related questions or bring up concerns about city business, projects, plans, services, public safety and more. The public may also share ideas or suggestions they have. “We are excited to hold another Rock Island Unplugged. It is a great opportunity to meet and engage with the public,” Mayor Mike Thoms said in a news release. “This is an opportunity for the community to ask questions, get answers and provide input.” Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and panel discussions will begin at 6 p.m. Hot appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar will be provided to attendees. In addition to Thoms, the event will feature City Manager Todd Thompson, Public Works Director Mike Bartels, Community and Economic Development Director Miles Brainard, Economic Development Director Tom Flaherty, Interim Police Chief Tim McCloud, Fire Chief Bob Graff, Parks and Recreation Director John Gripp, Finance Director Jessica Sager, Library Director Angela Campbell, MLK Community Center Director Jerry Jones, City Clerk Samantha Gange and Community Engagement Manager Sarah Hayden. An opening statement will be given by Mayor Thoms, followed by introductions of department directors and summaries of current projects or events. The floor will then be opened to questions from citizens. If unable to attend, residents may send questions in advance to Sarah Hayden at hayden.sarah@rigov.org. Submitted questions will be read out loud during the event.

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Music on the Lawn welcomes Jeanie B! and the Jelly Beans

Music on the Lawn at the Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House returns with concerts for the entire family. Jeanie B! and The Jelly Beans are bringing three family-friendly concerts to the lawn of the Deere-Wiman House, 817 11th Avenue in Moline on June 12. Two daytime concerts will be held at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The evening concert starts at 6:30 p.m. with pre-concert, family-friendly activities starting at 5 p.m. All concerts are free, but registration is required for the daytime concerts. Email gsmall@butterworthcenter.com to register. Registration isn’t required for the evening concert. Jeanie B! and the Jelly Beans (Jeanie B!) Concertgoers can bring chairs, blankets and box dinners or picnics to enjoy the music. All concerts will be moved to the nearby Deere-Wiman Carriage House in case of bad weather. Jeanie B!’s lifelong mission is entertaining and educating children and families. She started composing on the guitar at 15, mirroring the styles of Carole King and Neil Young. “Jeanie B! has a strong, melodic voice and writes intelligent and witty songs,” said Parents’ Choice Magazine. “She doesn't underestimate the musical and lyrical sophistication of her audience.” For more on the Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House and the programs offered, click here. For more on Jeanie B! and the Jelly Beans, click here.

OurQuadCities.com New painting celebrates Muscatine-China friendship OurQuadCities.com

New painting celebrates Muscatine-China friendship

Muscatine muralist Chris P. Anderson’s latest artwork, “The Pearl Dragon,” is now on display in Muscatine, celebrating the longstanding relationship between the city and China. This painting (displayed at Pearl City Media, 215 E. 2nd St.) was recently featured during a dinner event at the Merrill Hotel, hosted for Wang Zhengpu, Governor of Hebei, and Wang Zhengding, Zhengding County Party Secretary, along with their delegations. Chris P. Anderson's painting "The Pearl Dragon," on display at Pearl City Media, Muscatine. Anderson, known for his vibrant murals throughout downtown Muscatine, created “The Pearl Dragon” to mark the Chinese Year of the Dragon in 2024. This oil on canvas captures the essence of dragons given to Muscatine during Chinese New Year celebrations and acknowledges the Sino-US Friendship House on Bonnie Drive, where Chinese President Xi Jinping stayed during his 1985 visit, according to a release from Discover Muscatine. The artwork also features a Chinese waterfall, symbolizing the unity of two places and peoples. “The Pearl Dragon” holds significant cultural symbolism. Pearls have been esteemed in China for centuries, believed to offer protection from fire and fire-breathing dragons, Discover Muscatine said. A Chinese dragon Anderson received before a special Muscatine Chinese New Year event on Feb. 9, 2024. This ties back to Muscatine’s history, once known as Fire Island and later becoming the pearl button capital of the world. The painting illustrates a dragon admiring a pearl, signifying the transformation from adversity to beauty, akin to a pearl’s creation from a grain of sand. Governor Wang Zhengpu expressed his appreciation for the artwork and its representation of the deep-rooted friendship between Hebei and Iowa. He stated, “I feel that our friendship has its roots right here and I’m sure that we will further carry this friendship forward.” Additionally, he noted the connection between the Sister States, highlighting prominent athletes like Caitlin Clark, the WNBA rookie and NCAA all-time leading scorer from Iowa, and Sun Yingsha, the top-ranked women’s singles table tennis player from Hebei. Chris Anderson, a Muscatine mural artist, with his 15-year-old daughter Chiara, and some of their paintings they gave to Chinese guests in Muscatine. After the dinner and program, guests mingled and took pictures with “The Pearl Dragon,” commenting on its vibrant colors and the way it captured the essence of the long-standing relationship between Muscatine and Chinese communities. This event not only showcased Anderson’s artistic talent but also reinforced the cultural ties and mutual respect between the Sister States, the Discover Muscatine release said. On Feb. 9, 2024, Art Troupe of the High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China (RDFZ) performed at Muscatine High School. It is renowned for its diverse artistic groups, including dance, boys’ dance, symphony orchestra, martial arts, aerobics, choir, and folk orchestra.

KWQC TV-6  Remembering the Davenport building collapse KWQC TV-6

Remembering the Davenport building collapse

Remembering the Davenport building collapse

KWQC TV-6  The Davenport Disaster: One Year Later KWQC TV-6

The Davenport Disaster: One Year Later

On May 28, 2023, The Davenport apartment building partially collapsed. A tragic event, that will forever be remembered in the Quad Cities.

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3 Things to Know | Quad Cities morning headlines for May 28, 2024

James Thiel is in jail after being convicted of a fatal boat crash in 2022, and residents along the Wapsipinicon River are on alert as water levels rise.

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Rock Island alum headed to the Paris Olympics

Courtney Lindsey will be competing on the USA men's track team.

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Bettendorf's Memorial Day ceremony welcomes QCA nonprofit helping families of fallen heroes

Anonymously Grateful gives monetary and emotional support to Gold Star families and is spreading awareness of veteran suicide.

Quad-City Times United Way of Muscatine's Hilary Henke named new President of Volunteer Centers of Iowa Quad-City Times

United Way of Muscatine's Hilary Henke named new President of Volunteer Centers of Iowa

Hilary Henke, who serves as Community Engagement Manager at United Way of Muscatine, has recently been named President of Volunteer Centers of Iowa.

Quad-City Times Learn how to protect your brain: Lutheran Living to hold dementia event Quad-City Times

Learn how to protect your brain: Lutheran Living to hold dementia event

Lutheran Living will be hosting an event entitled “Dementia Action Plan – Learn How to Protect Your Brain from Dementia.”

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One dies in Sunday crash in rural Wilton

The Iowa State Patrol has not released the name of a motorist who was killed Sunday evening in rural Wilton, nor the names of two people injured.

OurQuadCities.com Moline rally will mark 4th anniversary of George Floyd's death OurQuadCities.com

Moline rally will mark 4th anniversary of George Floyd's death

A rally will be held in Moline to observe the fourth anniversary of George Floyd's death on May 25, 2020, according to a news release. In 2020, his death "sparked huge local and nationwide protests against the alarming rate at which Black Americans were being killed by police," the release says. Progressive Action for the Common Good (pacgqc.org) Two Quad Cities women, Caryn Unsicker and Glenda Guster, "were concerned that all the news coverage would fade away in short order without any solutions. So they decided to enlist members of their local Progressive Action for the Common Good (PACG) group and others to join them in holding ongoing rallies." On June 13, 2020, three weeks after Floyd’s murder, they gathered from noon to 12:30 pm onthe Slumberland/Party City Corner across from Southpark Mall in Moline. Holding signs such as“Honk for Racial Equality” and “Black Lives Matter,” the group has continued to meet almostevery Saturday for the past four years and plans to continue indefinitely "until racial equality is areality in America," the release says. George Floyd died while in police custody on May 25, 2020, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Photo Credit: Courtesy Ben Crump Law Firm Unsicker says that, despite an occasional detractor, the large number of honks they get each week from passersby of all races is encouraging. “This tells us that most people want to keep the conversation about racial equality alive and active, and that many people acknowledge that we need solutions so we can heal as a nation," Unsicker says in the release. Because June 13 is on a Thursday this year, the group decided to mark the fourth anniversary ofadvocating for racial equality and justice from noon until 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 8, at its regular weekly location. "We have extra signs and all are welcome," the release says. Progressive Action for the Common GroupPACG empowers people to take action for positive change and social justice by coordinating a network of community forums and events aimed at educating and engaging residents to work for the common good of all. Its core values are social justice, empowerment, diversity, sustainability and community.

Quad-City Times One year after 324 Main St., many ideas, but no 'substantive changes' to Davenport rental codes Quad-City Times

One year after 324 Main St., many ideas, but no 'substantive changes' to Davenport rental codes

One year after the collapse of 324 Main St., there have been no “substantive changes” to Davenport’s rental code and inspections policies, so far, according to city staff.

Quad-City Times The $3.26M year: What the City of Davenport spent in the aftermath of the partial collapse Quad-City Times

The $3.26M year: What the City of Davenport spent in the aftermath of the partial collapse

Financial records from the City of Davenport for expenses showed the city had spent a total of $3,267,437 in the aftermath of the partial collapse of 324 Main Street.

Monday, May 27th, 2024

KWQC TV-6 What questions should Rep. Feenstra challenger, Kevin Virgil, have to answer? KWQC TV-6

What questions should Rep. Feenstra challenger, Kevin Virgil, have to answer?

Kevin Virgil will answer question live about his Republican campaign for Iowa's Fourth Congressional District.

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East Moline food truck owner returns to town after bringing supplies to Greenfield

Toni Bare, owner of Toni's Smokin' Grill, said she's been able to help more than 600 people so far.

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Bettendorf veteran launches nonprofit to promote mental health issues in the military

Jose Cerda said he was encouraged to start "Anonymously Grateful" after attending four funerals for veterans who died of suicide.

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James Thiel reports to jail two years after sentencing in deadly boat crash

Thiel was found guilty on two counts of involuntary manslaughter.

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57th Kwik Star Criterium takes place in Village of East Davenport

There were 250 participants and more than a dozen races for all skill levels. It's the second oldest race in the country.

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1 killed, 2 injured in Muscatine County crash

The names of one person killed and two others injured in a crash Saturday in Muscatine County have not been released. According to an Iowa State Patrol report, the crash happened shortly after 6 p.m. Saturday at 120th Street and Taylor Avenue when a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee collided with a 2017 Chevy Equinox. The Jeep was eastbound on 120th Street and failed to stop at a stop sign, the report says. It proceeded through the intersection of Taylor Avenue. The Jeep collided with the Equinox, which was southbound on Taylor Avenue. The Jeep broadsided the Equinox, and caused it to roll. One person was killed, according to the report. Another person was transported by Aircare to University Hospitals, Iowa City, and another person was transported by EMS to Genesis Medical Center - East Campus. No names of anyone involved have been released. The crash remains under investigation.

OurQuadCities.com Illinois budget to eliminate grocery tax by 2026 OurQuadCities.com

Illinois budget to eliminate grocery tax by 2026

A budget for next fiscal year would eliminate Illinois' one percent grocery tax by the year 2026. However, several communities in Illinois rely on the money generated by the tax and are concerned about how to make up for the lost revenue. As Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol Bureau correspondent Theodora Koulouvaris reports, the budget would give those communities time to figure out their next move.

OurQuadCities.com Learn how to protect your brain at free Muscatine session OurQuadCities.com

Learn how to protect your brain at free Muscatine session

Lutheran Living Senior Campus, a continuing care retirement community, welcomes members of the public to an informational event about dementia, according to a news release. "Dementia Action Plan – Learn How to Protect Your Brain from Dementia," will be 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, at Lutheran Living, 2421 Lutheran Drive, Muscatine.    A picture of a human brain taken by a positron emission tomography scanner, also called PET scan, is seen on a screen. (Credit: Fred Tanneau/AFP via Getty Images) Hamid R. Sagha, M.D., author of “Dementia Action Plan: Give Your Brain a Fighting  Chance!" will present, along with Peggy Starkweather, member of the Lutheran Living Board of Directors and Chris Schulz, executive director of Lutheran Living. This event is free and open to the public. Attendees will learn how individuals can best protect their brains from dementia-related illness and disease. For more information, contact Schulz at: 563-263-1241 or cschulz@lutheran-living.org. About Lutheran Living Senior Campus Lutheran Living Senior Campus in Muscatine provides individuals and their families with experienced care and compassionate faith-based living that addresses the individual health care needs of the residents in their community.

OurQuadCities.com Officers accuse Davenport man of hosting drug house OurQuadCities.com

Officers accuse Davenport man of hosting drug house

A 58-year-old Davenport man was released on his own recognizance after police accuse him of hosting a drug house, according to court records. Joseph Deuth Sr. (Scott County Jail) Joseph Deuth, who was arrested on a warrant, faces a felony charge of (hosting) a gathering where controlled substances are used, court records show. On March 28, Davenport Police and the Scott County Sheriff Office executed a narcotics search warrant on the 1300 block of 8th Street in Davenport, according to arrest affidavits. During a search of the residence, officers found drug paraphernalia for crack cocaine in almost every room, affidavits say. After other occupants of the residence were read their Miranda Rights, they said "everyone in the house uses drugs on a regular basis," affidavits show. Officers found evidence of drug dealing in the residence. A crack pipe was located in Deuth's bedroom, and Deuth "admitted to smoking crack cocaine and marijuana," according to affidavits. Deuth is set for arraignment on June 20 in Scott County Court.

OurQuadCities.com Vigil, service set in memory of 3 killed in Davenport building collapse OurQuadCities.com

Vigil, service set in memory of 3 killed in Davenport building collapse

Three groups plan to come out Tuesday night near the spot of last year's deadly building collapse in downtown Davenport. Tuesday will mark one year since it happened. A patch of grass now sits where the building once stood. Davenport Hotel LLC is still listed as the owner of the property on the Scott County Property Registry. At Third Missionary Baptist Church in Davenport, a service at 5 p.m. Tuesday will be a tribute to the three men who were killed. The City of Davenport has confirmed the bodies of (clockwise, from upper left) Branden Colvin Sr., Ryan Hitchcock and Daniel Prien were recovered at the site of the partially collapsed building in Davenport. (City of Davenport) The groups Davenport Strong Against Corruption, The Q-C Movement and Whistleblower Davenport plan to be downtown afterward for a public vigil starting around 6 or 6:30 p.m. Crosses have been on the grass in downtown Davenport for months. They honor Branden Colvin Sr., Ryan Hitchcock and Daniel Prien, the men who died in the collapse. (photo by Mike Colón, OurQuadCities.com) Ryan Hitchcock's uncle, Scott Morehart, spoke with Our Quad Cities News about his family's experience over the past year. "I don't like to bring it up too much, to conjure up feelings, you know," he said. "We just kind of talk about him a little bit, but not too much of a tribute kind of thing ... just missing him." Peach Berry, who lived in the building, survived but lost her leg after being trapped in the collapse. She's one of the people who has filed a lawsuit over the collapse. On Tuesday, Our Quad Cities News will have extensive coverage, including more from Ryan Hitchcock's uncle, a look into what landlord Andrew Wold is doing now, and where things stand for a business that lost everything. That's tomorrow evening for Our Quad Cities News.

OurQuadCities.com When will the cicadas leave Iowa and Illinois? OurQuadCities.com

When will the cicadas leave Iowa and Illinois?

Cicadas have taken over communities across the United States, and it has a lot of people wondering when they will leave. Insect experts say it depends where you live. The cicadas will either die or return to the ground some time next month in most states. A second brood will emerge in the Midwest later in the summer. That group wakes up every 17 years, as opposed to every 13 years. Illinois and Iowa are expected to experience a long cicada summer. For more information, click here.

KWQC TV-6  Rising prices put a sizzle on Memorial Day Barbecues KWQC TV-6

Rising prices put a sizzle on Memorial Day Barbecues

Memorial Day barbecues are going to be more expensive this year, as rising prices are hitting both consumers and local businesses hard.

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Did you see an eerie glow above the QCA Sunday? Here's what caused it

News 8 received numerous videos and questions about some eerie-looking lights flashing in the sky Sunday night. Here's what it was.

OurQuadCities.com Davenport man charged after police say he punched victim in a hospital OurQuadCities.com

Davenport man charged after police say he punched victim in a hospital

A 33-year-old Davenport man was in custody Monday after police say he broke another man's nose in a hospital, according to court records. Clayton Vesey faces a felony charge of assault causing serious injury, court records say. Clayton Vesey (Scott County Jail) Shortly before 11 p.m. Sunday, Davenport Police responded to Genesis Medical Center - East Campus for an assault. Vesey, police say, was at the hospital on a police hold in connection with an incident earlier in the night, affidavits show. When hospital security staff told him he was not free to leave because he was on a police hold, Vesey "began to threaten hospital staff with violence," according to affidavits, and "struck the victim in the face with a closed fist. The victim sustained a broken nose and fresh, red, bloody lacerations to the bridge of his nose." Vesey who was being held Monday on $13,000 bond in Scott County Jail, is set for a preliminary hearing at 2 p.m. June 6 in Scott County Court.

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Rock Island National Cemetery hosts Memorial Day ceremony

Army veteran Benjamin Enlow, who served twice in Iraq between 2005 and 2009, was the keynote speaker for the event.

OurQuadCities.com Racers compete in Memorial Day Kwik Star Criterium OurQuadCities.com

Racers compete in Memorial Day Kwik Star Criterium

Beautiful Memorial Day weather provided the setting for bicycle races in Davenport. The Kwik Star Criterium attracted racers from across the country for races all day long.Our Quad Cities News was there for the racing action in the Village of East Davenport. Volunteers and racers said the races don't supersede the importance of remembering those who died in service. This is the 57th year for the event.

KWQC TV-6  Kwik Star Criterium races through Davenport KWQC TV-6

Kwik Star Criterium races through Davenport

The Criterium is the longest running sporting event in the Quad Cities, and it’s the final race in the Memorial Day series that ran through the weekend.

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Rock Island National Cemetery hosts Memorial Day ceremony

Army veteran Benjamin Enlow, who served twice in Iraq between 2005 and 2009, was the keynote speaker for the event.

OurQuadCities.com Illinois moves forward with tax incentive extensions OurQuadCities.com

Illinois moves forward with tax incentive extensions

Illinois is moving forward with a package of tax incentive extensions. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Steve Stadelman, includes the state's credits for electric vehicle companies. Stadelman credits the incentives for keeping the Stellantis factory open in his district while increasing production in the area. The bill would also designate money for the quantum technology campus Gov. JB Pritzker supports. The state budget would include $500 million to facilitate it. The incentives in the bill are intended to attract companies to build there.

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Orange lights above the Quad Cities

Courtesy of Holly Lowe

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Here's what caused those pulsing lights in the sky Sunday night in the QCA

News 8 received numerous videos and questions about some eerie-looking lights flashing in the sky Sunday night. Here's what it was.

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Iowa Black Doula Collective hosting community baby shower

Co-founder Ebonie Bailey joined the Current on News 8 to share more about the event.

OurQuadCities.com Rock Island National Cemetery honors the fallen OurQuadCities.com

Rock Island National Cemetery honors the fallen

The boom of cannon fire and smoke filled the air as the Rock Island National Cemetery held their annual Memorial Day ceremony, dedicated to the men and women who sacrificed their lives for their country. "I served. I have a lot of buddies who served," said Matt Tomes, Rock Island National Cemetery Director. "A lot of them are still serving. There's a lot of guys that I do know that know somebody who has passed away overseas or in combat. So this is special because we have to remember them and keep their memories alive, and we just want to honor them as much as we can." Tomes said he hopes to pass the baton to the younger generation, to continue to remember veterans who have died in battle. "I really loved seeing all the kids," Tomes said. "That was probably the best part. I want all the kids to start coming out. My generation has to start doing that with our kids. We have to show them what Memorial Day is all about, and we got to support the troops and support our service members. It was really great to see the kids come out." The keynote speaker of the ceremony was Benjamin Enlow, a veteran who completed two tours in Iraq in the early 2000's. He lost two close friends of his in battle. "That was extremely hard," Enlow said. "I think about them every day. One of them was from Iowa, so when I visit the capital twice a year when I have to go there for work, I see his picture every time. It brings back all the memories of everything that we did." No matter the day, veterans all across the ceremony emphasized the importance of remembering the ones who lost their lives. "Every year it's tough," Enlow said. "But we have to do it so we don't forget." Memorial Day was first widely observed in 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers and to honor the nation's Civil War dead by decorating their graves.

Quad-City Times NWS: 16 tornadoes hit eastern Iowa, western Illinois on Friday as derecho moved through Quad-City Times

NWS: 16 tornadoes hit eastern Iowa, western Illinois on Friday as derecho moved through

The NWS shared details on 16 tornadoes that hit the region on Friday, including one that caused damage in Coyne Center, and another that came near LeClaire.

OurQuadCities.com Illinois bill to set regulations for carbon capture projects OurQuadCities.com

Illinois bill to set regulations for carbon capture projects

Illinois state senators passed a long list of regulations for carbon capture projects. The bill would set regulations around every stage of the process. That includes from the capture of carbon emissions to storing emissions in underground wells.As Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol Bureau Chief Cole Henke reports, nothing would happen for two years.

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Muscatine County crash leaves 1 dead, 2 injured

According to the Iowa State Patrol, a Jeep failed to stop at a stop sign and drove through the intersection, fatally crashing with another vehicle.

OurQuadCities.com Volunteers needed to take down flags at Rock Island National Cemetery OurQuadCities.com

Volunteers needed to take down flags at Rock Island National Cemetery

The Rock Island National Cemetery is looking for volunteers to take down American flags at the headstones of fallen service members from Memorial Day observances. Work to remove the flags begins at Tuesday, May 28 at 8:00 a.m., weather permitting at the Rock Island National Cemetery, located at the Rock Island Arsenal. For more information, call 309-784-0000.

OurQuadCities.com Final Friday tally: derecho produced 16(!) tornadoes around Quad Cities area OurQuadCities.com

Final Friday tally: derecho produced 16(!) tornadoes around Quad Cities area

The final numbers are in, and they're staggering! Meteorologists with the NWS in Davenport have now confirmed Friday's derecho produced 16 tornadoes in our Quad Cities NWS coverage area! Tornadoes were reported in Rock Island County and Scott County, among several other counties. 8 tornadoes were rated EF-1 and one was an EF-0. the other 7 didn't produce enough damage to be able to properly be surveyed, and are given the classification of EF-U for "unknown." For a full summary on all 16 tornadoes, including the one that tracked across the ground for 20 miles through Rock Island County, click here

OurQuadCities.com Illinois bill to clarify illegal AI imagery OurQuadCities.com

Illinois bill to clarify illegal AI imagery

A new bill in Illinois is headed to the Gov. JB Pritzker's desk. The bill clarifies the state's laws governing artificial intelligence (AI) and child pornography. The legislation holds AI-generated images and videos to the same standard as genuine images of children. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul had pushed to update the state's statutes. Raoul says predators often use AI in their attempts to exploit children. Sen. Mary Edly-Allen sponsored the bill.

OurQuadCities.com Kids fish for free at East Moline youth fishing derby OurQuadCities.com

Kids fish for free at East Moline youth fishing derby

Kids can spend a morning outdoors reeling in the catch of the day at an annual youth fishing derby in East Moline. The East Moline Police Department’s Benevolent group is hosting its sixth annual Youth Fishing Derby on Sunday, June 2 at the lower Butterworth Park Lagoon, 1800 Archer Drive in East Moline. Registration starts at 9 a.m. and the derby runs from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Anglers ages 15 and under should bring their own fishing poles, bait, chairs and buckets. Fishing permits are not required for the derby. Hot dogs, chips and treats will be available and there will be raffles for prizes. Learn more about events in East Moline on the city’s Facebook page.

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Living Lands and Waters' Barge Party fundraiser is a good time on the river

Get ready to party on the Mississippi, learn more about local rivers and enjoy seafood at Living Lands and Waters’ annual Barge Party. The environmental entertainment event is on Thursday, June 13 from 5 – 9 p.m. at their new headquarters, 111 Beacon Harbor Pkwy in East Moline. Guests can enjoy a fish fry, shrimp boil, barbecue, wine pull, silent auction, barge tours and live music from For Those About To Yacht. A cash bar will be available. Parking is available at John Deere Harvester Works, 1100 13th Avenue in East Moline. Shuttle buses will take people from the parking lot to the barge party and back. The group is looking for local artists to donate works of art for the art auction. Artists are encouraged to donate environmentally themed works made from natural, repurposed or recycled items, but any donations are welcome. The deadline to register artwork for the auction is June 5. Click here to register artwork. Click here for tickets to the Barge Party. For more on Living Lands and Waters and their programs, click here.

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WIU, QC Graduate Center hosting inclusivity professional training

Western Illinois University and the Quad Cities Graduate Center are hosting a “How to Foster LGBTQ+ Inclusivity, Building Safe Spaces at Work and in Schools,” event on Friday, June 7 from 13-3 p.m. on the Quad Cities campus in Building C, room 2406. Haley D. Wikoff, WIU Counselor Education and College Student Personnel Assistant Professor, and Chase Norris, executive director of Clock Inc. will present at the event. "I'm excited to offer this professional development opportunity to WIU-QC in partnership with Chase Norris, the Executive Director of Clock, Inc., who is also an alumnus of the Counselor Education program,” said WIU Counselor Education Assistant Director Haley Wikoff. “This continues to help us engage in critical conversations around creating safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals here at WIU and in the community at large." The event aims to ensure LGBTQ+ individuals are safe and supported in schools and the community. Everyone benefits when others understand their experiences and the impact society has on their mental health. This training is geared towards licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical professional counselors, licensed mental health counselors, school counselors, school social workers, clinical social workers and other professionals. Counselors can receive continuing education credit, as WIU-QC is recognized by the National Board of Continuing Education for National Certified Counselors. The event is approved for three contact hours. All attendees will learn LGBTQ+ terminology, describe the differences between sexual identity and gender identity, hear the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in workplaces and schools, consider how privileges can affect societal experiences and develop acknowledgment, affirmation and advocacy strategies to create an inclusive environment. Click here to register for the event.

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Pet of the Week - Maya | May 27, 2024

News 8 and the Quad City Animal Welfare Center partner each week to help pets find their forever homes.

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1 person dead, 2 injured after Sunday crash in Muscatine County

Authorities say a Jeep traveling east on 120th Street drove past a stop sign and hit another vehicle traveling south on Taylor Avenue.

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1 killed, 2 injured in Muscatine County crash

The crash remains under investigation.

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SAL Family Fun Festival at Longview Park

Support, Advocacy and Learning Community Services is hosting a family fun festival at Longview Park in Rock Island on June 8. Rock Island, Henry and Mercer County families with children under the age of four are encouraged to attend the event. The festival will begin at 10 a.m. Food, family activities and giveaways will all be part of the fun. SAL representatives will be present to discuss early child education and care services. SAL is a nonprofit organization that offers early education, child care services and family support. SAL offers high quality care and services to families with children up to the age of 13. They also offer specialized early care programs for children ages zero through three years. “Our early education and care programs provide a nurturing and welcoming space for both parents and children,” says Marcy Mendenhall, president and CEO of SAL Community Services. “We know that children who receive quality early care experience less abuse and are 93 percent less likely to be removed from their home. Parents leave our workshops with tools to create a positive and nurturing atmosphere at home. Seeing their success and watching their children grow is an inspiration. We’re committed to bringing these services to as many families as possible.” Studies show that families that participate in SAL's Early Head Start program have better parenting and family outcomes, including lower levels of parenting stress, more supportive home environments, and less family conflict. This lowers the risk of child maltreatment by 10 to 22 percent and decreases the likelihood of child welfare system involvement. Parents involved in SAL’s early care program have seen the same positive impact on their families. “No parent wants to abuse their child,” says Nicole Carroll, a parent ambassador for the Illinois Head Start Association who also has children enrolled in SAL’s Early Head Start program. “Parents from all backgrounds face so many challenges and frustrations. Without the right tools, frustration can lead to abuse. If we can meet parents’ needs, we can prevent a lot of violence.” Carroll’s son was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, and she considered his social and emotional growth a priority. “At SAL, his development took off immediately,” she says. “He was in a small group with lots of direct contact with his teacher. He created a bond with his teachers, and I did, too. The care there felt incredibly personal, and it made a huge difference for him.” By age two, Carroll’s son was communicating his likes and dislikes, counting to 13, and identifying his shapes, colors, and sounds. SAL’s safe and enriching environment prepares children for continued growth and learning leading to success in school and beyond, all while giving parents the tools they need to be wonderful, self-sufficient caregivers. During that time, Carroll became increasingly involved as a parent advocate. “I had the opportunity to connect with other parents through SAL’s workshops and events for parents,” she says. "The community I made through those groups and the tools we received really changed the way I thought about parenting, both for me individually and for parents generally.” Carroll has become involved in efforts to support Early Head Start at the state and national levels. As a parent ambassador for the Illinois Head Start Association, Carroll has traveled from Springfield to New Orleans and Washington D.C., speaking at conferences and in the offices of lawmakers about the critical importance of funding early child care and education. “If my story can help tip the scale even a little bit and help other parents like me, then I feel like I have a responsibility to share it,” Carroll says. To learn more about SAL click here. To arrange an interview with SAL staff email Amber Wood at awood@salcommunityservices.org or call 309-429-5512.

OurQuadCities.com Learn about edge of field conservation for free at Knox County Farm Bureau OurQuadCities.com

Learn about edge of field conservation for free at Knox County Farm Bureau

A free panel discussion on edge-of-field conservation is connecting farmers with those who have tried the method. The Cultivating Conversations: How and Why Illinois Farmers Implement Edge-of-Field Practices panel discussion for farmers in west-central Illinois will be held from 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25 at the Knox County Farm Bureau, 180 S. Soangetaha Road in Galesburg.   Four area producers will share their experiences and the lessons they learned about using edge-of-field practices and answer questions about their use. Participants can network with other farmers, learn how practices work, explore cost-share opportunities and find local professionals installing practices such as buffer strips, constructed wetlands and bioreactors designed to capture nutrients and sediment and keep them out of nearby bodies of water.  “We want to share real-life experiences of farmers who have used edge-of-field practices and not shy away from the considerations and complications that come up,” said Rachel Curry, University of Illinois Extension agriculture and agribusiness educator. “Farmers listen to other farmers when it comes to stewarding their land.”  Losing nitrogen and phosphorus from fields can pollute local waterways, contaminate drinking water supplies, lower property values, hinder recreational opportunities and hurt local businesses and tourism. Local water quality impacts the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, where a hypoxic zone the size of Yellowstone National Park is threatening the fishing industry. Learn more about the University of Illinois Extension’s resources for preventing nutrient loss in Illinois here. Click here to learn more about the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. Curry will discuss the Illinois Nutrient Loss Strategy that she leads and Catherine DeLong, a water quality expert from Iowa State University, will cover strategies farmers can use when discussing conservation with others.. Click here to register for the free program or call (309) 342-5108. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

KWQC TV-6  Haunted Haven in Rock Falls seeks community support after tragic fire KWQC TV-6

Haunted Haven in Rock Falls seeks community support after tragic fire

Tragedy struck Rock Falls earlier last week when a devastating fire engulfed the barn that housed Haunted Haven, a beloved local haunted house.

KWQC TV-6 Did you see an orange glow over the QCA? KWQC TV-6

Did you see an orange glow over the QCA?

Clinton based company is responsible for the orange, flickering glow seen over the QCA.

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This Week: Iowa State Rep. Monica Kurth reflects on Davenport collapse

Tune in to News 8 on the one-year anniversary of the collapse this Tuesday, May 28, at 6:30 p.m. for a half-hour special featuring more from Kurth's interview.

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House used in 1990 film "Home Alone" is now up for sale

Anybody can now live in the home used as a backdrop for the Christmas classic film. The home listing price is going at 5.25 million dollars, which was built in 1921.

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Quad Cities unemployment rose slightly in April

The unemployment rate in the Quad Cities rose slightly in April, compared to the same time last year.

Quad-City Times Quad-Cities Learning: Rock Island High School class preps entrepreneurs of tomorrow, and today Quad-City Times

Quad-Cities Learning: Rock Island High School class preps entrepreneurs of tomorrow, and today

Future entrepreneurs can learn the ins and outs of business, product design, sales, marketing and more at Rock Island High School.

Sunday, May 26th, 2024

KWQC TV-6  NWS: Friday’s derecho dropped 16 confirmed tornadoes in the TV6 viewing area. KWQC TV-6

NWS: Friday’s derecho dropped 16 confirmed tornadoes in the TV6 viewing area.

NWS: 16 tornadoes tore through the region Friday.

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Building destroyed in Burlington fire

A vacant residence was destroyed in a late night fire in Burlington, according to a news release from Fire Marshal Robert Berndt. The Burlington Fire Department was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of Peasley Street for a report of black smoke and flames on May 25 at about 10:28 p.m. First responders arrived within four minutes to find heavy fire coming from the back of the two-story building. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the flames. The property was vacant at the time of the incident. The residence is insured and considered a total loss. There were no injuries reported and the last unit cleared the scene by 1:27 a.m. The West Burlington Fire Department, Danville Fire Department, Alliant Energy and Gas and the Burlington Police Department assisted at the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Burlington Fire Department and Burlington Police Department and any additional information will be released by the Fire Marshal.

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This Week: Upcoming projects at Veterans Memorial Park in Davenport

News 8's Jon Diaz spoke with Bill Churchill, president of Friends of the Veterans Memorial Park in Davenport, about the park's next phase.

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Milan Walgreens armed robbery: Police release photos of masked suspects

Milan police have released descriptions and images of two suspects who displayed an AR-style rifle during a May 12 armed robbery at Walgreens.

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Moline's Riverside Riverslide opens to the public

The water park features various improvements and new amenities that have been three years in the making, according to Moline Parks and Recreation.

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Hundreds head to Silvis to honor fallen soldiers during Memorial Day weekend

Local officials and veterans spoke at Hero Street Park, located next to a two-block stretch of homes occupied by dozens of families who served in the military.

OurQuadCities.com How much is a cookout in 2024? OurQuadCities.com

How much is a cookout in 2024?

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer fun, including backyard cookouts. How much are those cookouts going to cost this summer? The experts at Cookout News, a website covering everything about outdoor cooking, ran numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to see which parts of the country are paying more for grilling out. BLS tracks regional data based on the census regions of the Midwest, West, Northeast and South. The pros decided a typical cookout would serve 10 people with one plate of food each. The costs don’t include higher priced items like alcohol or people who like seconds. For the purposes of the study, one plate for each person consists of: 4 oz. cheeseburger with lettuce, onion, tomato, ketchup, mustard and bun Hot dog with bun Serving of baked beans Serving of potato salad Serving of potato chips Serving of strawberries Serving of vanilla ice cream Serving of cookies 12 oz of soda Grillers out West are paying more to cook outdoors; the average cookout will set hosts back $94.55 on average. The Northeast does a little better with an average overall cost of $90.33. Southern hosts can expect to pay $87.76 on average to entertain. The Midwest comes out as the bargain place for cookouts, with an average of $84.99. The national average for 2924 is $89.41, a 3.6% increase from last year. That may not sound good, but it’s better than the 12% increase from 2022 to 2023, when it rose from $76.87 to $86.32. The website offers tips for cutting costs even more. Barbecuing began as a way to take inexpensive meat and turn it into something tasty. Try less expensive items, like pork shoulder, and let them cook slowly for better flavor. If you want to serve steaks, try cheaper cuts that still taste good, like flat iron steaks, instead of the more expensive Porterhouse or T-bone cuts. Have a good assortment of side dishes on hand because they are generally cheaper than proteins and are filling, like potato salad, macaroni salad and cut fruit. Save money by doing some of the work yourself. Make hamburger patties instead of buying premade ones or make homemade sides like macaroni salad. Cutting fruit for a platter may take a little longer but is much less expensive than precut. Check for deals at warehouse/membership stores.

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Quad City Togolese immigrant group hosts clean up along Avenue of the Cities

The Association of the Togolese Diaspora's president says they want to take care of the cities that welcomed them.

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Grammy award-winning artists Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience to perform in Muscatine

The band will host an educational program on Creole music for kids and families followed by a public concert on Friday, June 7.

OurQuadCities.com Trust in U. S. Supreme Court called into question after latest justice controversy OurQuadCities.com

Trust in U. S. Supreme Court called into question after latest justice controversy

Trust in the U. S. Supreme Court is relatively low across the country. Only 49 percent of Americans have trust and confidence in the high court. That's not good for the institution that's supposed to be the pillar of justice. Now one of the conservative justices who's taken heat for some of his public comments in the past is under scrutiny again. It's Justice Samuel Alito, after the New York Times recently published a photo of the American Flag flying upside down in front of his house in January of 2021 ... three days before Joe Biden's inauguration. It's not a good look for a justice at any time. But flying a flag upside down became the symbol for people in the Stop the Steal Movement, election deniers who claim Donald Trump won the election. Host Jim Niedelman returns with former Iowa Republican Party Chair Steve Grubbs and Scott County Democratic Party Chair Kay Pence. Should the judge recuse himself? And what does this do to the already-struggling reputation of the Supreme Court? "Republicans and Democrats alike have been of this flag being flown upside-down for the day that it was, and rightly so," Grubbs said. But as far as Alido recusing himself, "That's sort of a non-starter." "You've got to be able to trust that when you go into court that you're going to have an equal chance under the law, and that a judge is going to be impartial," Pence said. To hear more from our panelists, click on the video. Question of the Week And now we want to hear from you, too, with our question of the week: What do you think about Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito flying the American Flag upside down outside his home? Please share your thoughts at 4therecord@whbf.com. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you.  It’s a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on what’s happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home'Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you.  It’s a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on what’s happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home

OurQuadCities.com Illinois could review property-tax system with no commitment to cuts OurQuadCities.com

Illinois could review property-tax system with no commitment to cuts

A new law in Iowa that requires special labels on meat substitutes does more than that. And  talk of any property-tax relief in Illinois will remain talk ... at least for now. Host Jim Niedelman gets into that with former Iowa Republican Party Chair Steve Grubbs and Scott County Democratic Party Chair Kay Pence. "People vote with their feet," Grubbs said. "And for the Quad Cities, we need Illinois to be competitive." "When you balance tax revenue and services, one of the things that hurts Illinois right now is their hands are tied with their flat tax and their constitution," Pence said. To hear more from our panelists, click on the video. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you.  It’s a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on what’s happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home

OurQuadCities.com Pautsch challenging Miller-Meeks in GOP primary from right wing of party OurQuadCities.com

Pautsch challenging Miller-Meeks in GOP primary from right wing of party

We are now nine days away from the Iowa Primary. There are some competitive races for jobs you might not expect. Republican Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks has an early challenge. She faces a primary fight against Republican David Pautsch for the First Congressional District seat. Let's follow the money. Miller-Meeks enjoys a huge financial advantage over Pautsch. The latest filings with the Federal Election Commission show Miller-Meeks has almost $1.8 million in cash on hand. Pautsch has a little more than $6,000. Host Jim Niedelman gets to know Pautsch better. Born in Jacksonville, Illinois, Pautsch really grew up in Ida Grove, Iowa. He served four years in the Army. "My opponent is doing a pretty good job of shooting herself in the foot," Pautsch said. "She ... votes like she doesn't even know how to spell 'Republican.'" Hear what else Pautsch has to say when you click on the video. And we've got more of the conversation with David Pautsch in a web extra, where you can hear the opinions he has about the 2020 presidential election, right here at www.ourquadcities.com. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you.  It’s a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on what’s happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home.

OurQuadCities.com WEB EXTRA: FOX News, OAN 'weak' for settling defamation cases, Pautsch says OurQuadCities.com

WEB EXTRA: FOX News, OAN 'weak' for settling defamation cases, Pautsch says

Thanks for checking out this web extra. We didn't have time to bring you all of host Jim Niedelman’s conversation with Iowa Congressional candidate David Pautsch, the Republican who is challenging incumbent Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks in the primary. He's got a very strong opinion when it comes to the 2020 Presidential race results: "It doesn't take a genius to figure out that this thing was a bogus operation," he said. Click on the video to hear what else he has to say. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you.  It’s a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on what’s happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home.       

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13-year-old killed, 11-year-old injured in Poweshiek County crash

The names of the victims haven't been released.

OurQuadCities.com Mi Banda El Mexicano coming to Rhythm City Casino OurQuadCities.com

Mi Banda El Mexicano coming to Rhythm City Casino

Mi Banda El Mexicano is coming to Davenport this fall! The band will be at the Event Center at the Rhythm City Casino on Saturday, November 2 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available now by clicking here or at The Market at Rhythm City, 7077 Elmore Avenue in Davenport. Mi Banda El Mexicano is a technobanda musical group from Mazatlán, Sinaloa Mexico. They are the composers of the songs "No Bailes de Caballito" and "Feliz, Feliz," which were extremely popular in Mexico and Latin America in the 90s. They reinterpret the works of the famous Spanish singer-songwriter Cecilia’s "Un Ramito de Violetas." Many of their songs, including “La Morena” and “La Bota” hit the music charts in Mexico and the United States, with “Un Ramito de Violetas” selling over 1 million copies and spending 20 weeks on the charts. The band started as a rock group in 1973 but moved towards recording synthesized Sinaloan banda songs in the 80s and moved fully into the technobanda style in the 90s. The group was formed by Casimiro Zamudio, Jorge Hopkins and Francisco Vidriales, with Germán Román joining in the 80s as a drummer and vocalist. They gained more international fans when “No Bailes de Caballito” became popular in the United States, Central America and South America. In 2009, Jorge, Pancho and Casimiro, three of the original elements of the band, reunited to form Mi Banda El Mexicano de Casimiro Zamudio. Click here for more on the band.

OurQuadCities.com State help available for Iowa storm victims OurQuadCities.com

State help available for Iowa storm victims

Scott County residents are now eligible for help from the state of Iowa after several recent outbreaks of severe weather. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a disaster proclamation for Scott County on May 24, one of many Iowa Counties impacted by the recent severe storms. The proclamation makes grant assistance and case management services available to affected residents for needs including auto and home repairs, clothing, food and emergency housing. Individuals and families must meet income eligibility guidelines to qualify for the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program. There are no income eligibility guidelines for case management assistance.  Potential applicants have 45 days from the date of the proclamation, May 24, 2424 to submit a claim. The deadline date is July 8. People who need help can contact these agencies for assistance: Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program Forms are available online here or they may also picked up in person and submitted to: Community Action of Eastern Iowa 500 E. 59th St. Davenport, IA 52806 They can also call (563) 324-3236 with questions or to get help. Iowa Legal Aid Impacted residents who experience legal issues (tenant-landlord disputes, employment disputes, etc.), insurance issues or related questions can contact Iowa Legal Aid for assistance by clicking here or calling (800) 532-1275

Quad-City Times Riverboat Twilight sets sail on another season in LeClaire Quad-City Times

Riverboat Twilight sets sail on another season in LeClaire

The cruise season for the Riverboat Twilight officially started Saturday and will continue through the last weekend in October.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Rock Island and Henry County real estate transactions for May 26, 2024

Following are seller, buyer, property description and price of property. Note: Price is an estimate based on revenue stamps that are bought from the county.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 26, 2024

Michael G. Higgins, 41, of Davenport, Iowa, died Thursday, May 9, 2024. Private services have taken place at Trimble Funeral Home & Crematory, Moline.

OurQuadCities.com Illinois Healthcare Protection Act advances OurQuadCities.com

Illinois Healthcare Protection Act advances

Gov. JB Pritzker's health insurance reforms for Illinois are one step closer to becoming law. The House has sent the Healthcare Protection Act (HB2499) to his desk. The act would ban controversial step therapy, when an insurance company makes a patient take an alternate and often cheaper medication first before they cover the treatment their doctor prescribed. A bill was also passed to ban short-term insurance plans, which offer coverage to people who don't get insurance through their job. Pritzker called the move a "historic win for patients across the state," and he plans to sign the bill.

OurQuadCities.com Kids got to 'Touch a Truck' in Silvis OurQuadCities.com

Kids got to 'Touch a Truck' in Silvis

Silvis is celebrating its centennial this year, and to help celebrate the public library held an event for families on Saturday. The Touch a Truck event featured vehicles from Silvis Public Works, Silvis Police Department and other agencies. Some kids also got a chance to have their pictures taken with a Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine. Staff organizers were grateful the weather cleared and the field where the event was held wasn’t too muddy.

Saturday, May 25th, 2024

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Severe storms, flooding expected across Iowa and Quad Cities overnight

Wind damage and potential flash flooding are expected through dawn Sunday

KWQC TV-6  Pleasant night Saturday; storms by Sunday morning could be severe KWQC TV-6

Pleasant night Saturday; storms by Sunday morning could be severe

Heavy rain this weekend may lead to rising rivers and flash flooding.

KWQC TV-6 Greenfield High School alumni class looks to help community following deadly tornado KWQC TV-6

Greenfield High School alumni class looks to help community following deadly tornado

It has now been four days since an EF4 Tornado tore through Greenfield, Iowa causing four deaths and dozens of injuries. The town with a population of 2,000 people is now left figuring out how to recover.

KWQC TV-6  Pleasant night tonight; storms by Sunday morning that could be severe KWQC TV-6

Pleasant night tonight; storms by Sunday morning that could be severe

Heavy rain this weekend may lead to rising rivers and flash flooding.

Quad-City Times Two arrested on animal neglect charges Quad-City Times

Two arrested on animal neglect charges

Two Davenport residents are facing animal neglect charges after Animal Protection Services discovered pets at their home that were malnourished as well as three animals in their freezer.

OurQuadCities.com 2 in custody after police allege Davenport animals found filthy, starving OurQuadCities.com

2 in custody after police allege Davenport animals found filthy, starving

Two Davenport residents were in custody Saturday after animal-control officers and police allege they found malnourished animals at their home along with dead rabbits and a cat in a freezer, according to court records. Joshua Schmidt (L) and Suzanne Schmidt (Scott County Jail) Suzanne Schmidt, 48, and Joshua Schmidt, 25, both face three aggravated-misdemeanor charges of animal neglect with serious injury or death, and three serious-misdemeanor charges of animal neglect with injury, court records show. In Iowa, conviction of an aggravated misdemeanor could mean a sentence of up to two years and a fine. Shortly before 4 p.m. April 19, Animal Protection Services responded to a Davenport home on West 3rd Street for a report of animal neglect, according to arrest affidavits. The Schmidts failed to provide several animals in their care “with basic needs such as adequate food, water, and sanitary conditions leading to serious medical issues/death to several animals," affidavits show. Additionally, affidavits show that “Animal Protection Services removed one canine (matted fur with feces stuck to it, long nails, malnourished) and two rabbits (both showing signs of neglect, one showing signs of starvation).” In the Schmidts’ freezer were two rabbits and one cat  that showed signs of severe neglect and were just "fur and bones,” according to arrest affidavits. “There were no medical records for any of the animals,” according to arrest affidavits. “Four cats were allowed to remain with the defendants, but Animal Protection Services did note their litter boxes were full of fecal matter.” Suzanne Schmidt, according to court records, has received prior city citations for exceeding number of animals (allowed,) failure to provide proof of rabies vaccination and failure to obtain a city dog license. Suzanne and Joshua Schmidt, each held on $2,500 bond, were in custody Saturday in Scott County Jail, and are set for preliminary hearings June 4 in Scott County Court.

Quad-City Times Illinois lawmakers working through weekend to wrap up state budget Quad-City Times

Illinois lawmakers working through weekend to wrap up state budget

Lawmakers blew past their self-imposed Friday deadline to adjourn their spring legislative session and will remain in Springfield at least through Memorial Day.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Update: Damaging storms expected in Nebraska and Iowa Saturday night

Wind damage, large hail, and tornadoes are expected in parts of Nebraska and Iowa

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

River Action presents Explore the River Series

Registration is now open for the Explore the River Series, part of River Action’s Summer Education Program, according to a news release. Participants get to learn first-hand from experts about the wildlife, history, culture, and geography along the Mississippi River through a series of Channel Cat Talks and Riverine Walks. The series provides Quad City residents and visitors a chance to explore and experience the Mississippi River on the Channel Cat or by guided tours of varying unique location. Each talk covers an aspect of living along the Mississippi from its geography and wildlife to its culture and history, and even future economic plans. To purchase tickets or to view the full line up of Channel Cat Talks and Riverine Walks, visit here. Here are just a few of the 52 Explore the River Series sessions River Action is offering in 2024: Channel Cat Talks Participants board the water taxi from the Riverbend Commons in Moline and listen to experts narrate on this hour-and-a-half cruise along the river. Channel Cat Talks are $20 and leave from the Channel Cat dock at 2951 River Drive in Moline. This year, hear from Guinness World Record Holder and adventurer Dana Starkell as he details his “Fantastic Voyage on the Mississippi” on June 25 and 27. If you’re interested in learning about the new “I-74 Bridge and Its Features,” geotechnical engineer Matt Dotson presents on July 23 and 25. Musician and jazz historian Josh Duffee will educate and entertain with his musical presentation of “The Music of Bix Beiderbecke & Louie Bellson” on July 30 and Aug. 1. Boat space is limited so people are advised to purchase tickets in advance. Riverine Walks Riverine Walks offer unique experiences along the shores of the Mighty Mississippi. Guided walking tours meet at various sites around the QC area and each Walk’s meeting location can be found in Explore the River Brochures or online here. This year, learn about the “Past, Present, and Future of Moline Centre’s Riverfront” from Kirk Marske of Renew Moline on May 29 and June 1. The following week on June 5 and 8, tour Modern Woodmen Ballpark with the River Bandits owner, Dave Heller, as he presents “Ballpark Backstage Pass." "This is a Farm” by Tapestry Farms’ Hydroponics Manager Sonja Kinser, will take listeners on a tour of a self-contained hydroponic freight-farm. Riverine Walks are $10 or free with a River Action membership, which can be purchased here. (gogreenmetro.com) Funding for the series is provided in part by: MetroLINK, IHCMVU, BITCO Insurance Companies, Modern Woodmen of America, the QC Times, and Nelson Brothers Insurance Agency. To register for this or any other programs, visit here. Brochures are available at River Action’s office, 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, or can be mailed upon request. To volunteer or for more information, email Ashley at River Action at ahamerlinck@riveraction.org or call 563-322-2969.

OurQuadCities.com Veterans to be honored in Memorial Day service at Summit Church, Davenport OurQuadCities.com

Veterans to be honored in Memorial Day service at Summit Church, Davenport

The public is invited to one of the oldest continuous observances of Memorial Day west of the Mississippi River at the 105th annual Memorial Day services at Historic Summit Church, on Utica Ridge Road, 21980 210th Ave., Davenport, according to a news release. Utica Ridge Bridge is closed, so visitors should follow detour signs, the release says. Summit Church (Scott County Historical Society) The service will be held at 9 a.m. Monday, May 27. It is a tradition that started at Summit Church in 1919, with Sunday School Superintendent Sally Walker, who wanted to honor World War I veterans from the church. Now, Scott County Historical Society and the Carl Jacobsen Post #639 of the American Legion & Auxiliary, Eldridge, honor all Scott County veterans who have served from the Civil War to the present. The service will include an honor guard presenting the U. S. Flag, a veteran who will receive the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of patriotic songs, patriotic speeches, and reading of a roll call of Scott County veterans. After the tribute, everyone is invited to stay for fellowship and refreshments at the historic country church.

OurQuadCities.com Figge features Gay Pride Film Series OurQuadCities.com

Figge features Gay Pride Film Series

This June, the Figge Art Museum presents a series of four award-winning LGBTQ+ films, according to a news release.  Admission is free to the films that will be shown at the John Deere Auditorium at the Figge, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport. For more information, visit here or call 563-326-7804. Here's a look at the lineup: Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m. "Jimmy in Saigon." (U.S., 2002) Documentary filmmaker Peter McDowell explores the radical life, forbidden romance, and mysterious death of his brother, a 24-year-old Vietnam veteran who died in Saigon in 1972. McDowell will introduce the film at this special screening on the 52nd anniversary of his brother's death. Watch the trailer here. 'Jimmy in Saigon' (IMDb) Sunday, June 16, 4 p.m. "Ammonite" Based on a true story, acclaimed paleontologist Mary Anning sells fossils to tourists when a chance job offer to care for the wife of a visitor changes her life.  Watch the trailer.  'Ammonite' (IMDb) Sunday, June 23, 4 p.m. "The Way He Looks" (Brazil, 2014) A new classmate transforms the daily life of a blind teenager who longs for independence in this coming-of-age film.  Watch the trailer here. 'The Way He Looks' (IMDb) Sunday, June 30, 4 p.m. "Out in the Dark" (Israel, 2012) Worlds collide for two men on opposite sides of the Mid-East conflict for Palestinian student Nimer and Roy, an Israeli lawyer. Watch the trailer here. 'Out in the Dark' (IMDb) Post-screening wine and discussion Each week, audiences can socialize and discuss the Gay Pride 2024 film selections after the movies with a complimentary glass of wine. (Underwritten by Barb Zimmerman)

OurQuadCities.com Gigi's Playhouse sets event in Bettendorf OurQuadCities.com

Gigi's Playhouse sets event in Bettendorf

GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities will host the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge SUPERHERO 5K, 1 Mile Walk and Kids Dash for Down Syndrome on Saturday, June 1, in Veterans Memorial Park, Bettendorf, as a physical and social movement for acceptance, according to a news release. The local Down syndrome achievement center is working alongside the network of more than 60 playhouses, throughout the United States and Mexico, to host a GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge event. with its annual SUPERHERO 5K run, 1 mile walk, and Kids Dash for Down syndrome. Visit here to learn more or here to register for the local event.   GiGi’s Playhouse is the only international network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers providing free life-changing therapeutic and educational programs for all ages. GiGi’s Playhouse started in 2003 when GiGi was only 1 year old. Today, there are 59 locations across the U.S. and Mexico and serve families in more than 83 different countries.