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

Friday, June 7th, 2024

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Officials say officer-involved shooting of East Moline man is justified

The officer-involved shooting of Eugene Mewes is justified. That's according to an opinion released Friday evening by Rock Island County State's Attorney Dora Villarreal.

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Inside Iowa Politics: Has anyone been arrested for death threats against Iowa Congresswoman last year?

U.S. Capitol Police issue brief statement regarding death threats against Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks.

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Hundreds of books collected at Cops ‘N Kids Community Book Drive at KWQC station

KWQC joined Together Making a Better Community and the Davenport Police Department, to hold a Cops ‘N’ Kids Community Book Drive Friday at the TV6 studio.

WVIK Augustana College and Rivermont Collegiate sign a guaranteed admissions agreement WVIK

Augustana College and Rivermont Collegiate sign a guaranteed admissions agreement

Students who do well at a local college preparatory school will now have guaranteed admission to Augustana College once they graduate.

KWQC TV-6  Opinion of the Rock Island County state’s attorney: East Moline police officers’ use of deadly force is justified KWQC TV-6

Opinion of the Rock Island County state’s attorney: East Moline police officers’ use of deadly force is justified

A statement regarding the opinion of the Rock Island County state’s attorney was released regarding an officer involved shooting on May 17 that happened in East Moline at Hometown Harbor Apartment Complex when police said they responded to a report of a person with a gun.

Quad-City Times Rock Island County State's Attorney: East Moline officers justified in using deadly force Quad-City Times

Rock Island County State's Attorney: East Moline officers justified in using deadly force

The Rock Island County State's Attorney determined the two East Moline officers who shot an armed man on May 17 were justified in doing so.

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Man shot and wounded in Davenport early Friday morning

Police say the shooting happened in the 800 block of West 3rd Street around 2 a.m. Friday morning. A victim was transported to a local hospital.

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WQAD editor Jacob Mundy releasing his book 'Profound Light' on June 14

Mundy's book is a memoir about the adversities and trauma he overcame as a child.

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1 dead, another injured after shooting in Galesburg Friday

Galesburg Police had asked the public to avoid the 900 block of E. South Street Friday morning due to a shooting.

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All About 8: Meet Lindsey Voss, a self-taught crocheter sharing her craft with the community

Lindsey Voss, or Linn, works as an editor on Good Morning Quad Cities and as a digital content producer at WQAD.

OurQuadCities.com Pedestrian struck by train in Clinton OurQuadCities.com

Pedestrian struck by train in Clinton

A pedestrian was struck by a train this morning in Clinton. On June 7, 2024 at 11:46 a.m., the Clinton Fire Department was dispatched to a reported pedestrian struck by a train in the 300 block of North 2nd Street, according to a Friday release. A deputy in the area for a special event was advised by a train crew member that the train had struck a person in this area. A single victim was located lying near the railroad tracks as reported. First responders began rendering aid as fire personnel were arriving. Clinton Fire Department paramedics arrived with the patient, rendered care, and provided transport to Mercy One in Clinton. Patient condition is unavailable at the time of this report, the release said. The cause is under investigation. No other information is available at this time. Crews were assisted on scene by the Clinton Police, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, and Clinton County Communications.

KWQC TV-6  Help raise money for dog park improvements at Clinton Furry Scurry event KWQC TV-6

Help raise money for dog park improvements at Clinton Furry Scurry event

You can take your four-legged friend for a walk and help raise money for a good cause at the Clinton Furry Scurry.

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ISP finishes investigation into Macomb shooting where police killed child, armed suspect

In March, police shot and killed a 4-year-old boy and an armed suspect, who was using the child as a human shield. The case now heads to the county state's attorney.

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Salvation Army delivers donuts to Quad Cities first responders

In a tradition dating back to World War I, Salvation Army volunteers delivered donuts to Quad Cities first responders on National Donut Day.

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One injured in Clinton structure fire

One patient was treated and transported to Mercy One-Clinton for minor injuries after a Clinton structure fire Friday morning, according to a news release. The fire started shortly after 10 a.m. Friday on the 1300 block of 23rd Avenue North. (cityofclintoniowa.us) Initial reports were of a vehicle on fire inside an attached garage. Crews reported heavy fire on an attached garage of a single-family home. Crews made an aggressive initial attack on the fire and had the main body of the fire knocked down within minutes. Crews, who evacuated the house and continued suppression efforts, remained on the scene for about an hour and a half, checking for hot spots and ensuring the fire was completely out. The fire was contained to the garage portion of the residence and several vehicles within the garage. The cause is under investigation. Crews were assisted at the scene by the Clinton Police Department, the Camanche Fire Department, Alliant Energy, and Clinton County Communications.

KWQC TV-6  Former Iowa women’s basketball recruit Ava Jones medically retires KWQC TV-6

Former Iowa women’s basketball recruit Ava Jones medically retires

The University of Iowa says former women’s basketball recruit Ava Jones will medically retire, but she will remain on scholarship.

KWQC TV-6  Food Truck Fight setting up at The Rust Belt this year KWQC TV-6

Food Truck Fight setting up at The Rust Belt this year

A dozen food trucks will set up in East Moline for the annual Food Truck Fight.

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Best donut shops in the Quad Cities region, according to reviews on Google

In honor of National Donut Day, News 8 is highlighting some of the best donut spots in the Quad Cities region, as determined by reviews and ratings on Google.

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Galesburg shooting leaves one dead

Galesburg Police are investigating a shooting that took place this morning, Friday, June 7, leaving one person dead and one injured. At approximately 11:12 a.m., the Galesburg Police Department responded to the 900 block of E. South Street in reference to shots being fired. Upon arrival, a gunshot victim was located inside the residence at 949 E. South Street. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene with an apparent gunshot wound, police said Friday. A few minutes later, the Galesburg Police Department learned that a second gunshot victim was transported to OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg by an unknown person. The second gunshot victim was subsequently transported to OSF St. Francis to be treated, a department release said Friday. This investigation is ongoing, and at this time, the names of the victims are not being released. This appears to be an isolated incident and there are no identifiable threats to the general public. Anyone with information should contact the Galesburg Police Department at 309-343-9151, or the Galesburg Area Crime Stoppers at 309-344-0044. Tips can also be left using the P3 mobile app or by clicking on the submit a tip on the Galesburg Police Department Facebook page. The Galesburg Police Department was assisted by the Knox County Sheriff’s Department and the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit.

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ISP concludes Macomb domestic incident in which police fatally shot 4-year-old, armed suspect

In March, police shot and killed a 4-year-old boy and an armed suspect, who was using the child as a human shield. The case now heads to the county state's attorney.

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Rock Falls man arrested on child pornography charges

A Rock Falls man was arrested for child pornography charges. According to a release from the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 2, on June 6, after an extensive investigation into the dissemination of child pornography via a computer program, Illinois State Police agents executed a search warrant at a residence in the 1400 block of Avenue A in Rock Falls and arrested Adam Davis, 39, for five counts of dissemination of child pornography (Class X felony). Davis was taken into custody and transported to the Whiteside County Jail. Adam Davis (Illinois State Police) The Illinois State Police provides resources to report crimes against children. Anonymous tips of child pornography can also be reported through the National Center for Missing and ExploitedChildren's (NCMEC) cyber tip line. To keep kids safe online, learn more here and here. For resources for survivors of sexual abuse, click here.

OurQuadCities.com Clinton joins record number of QC public sculptures OurQuadCities.com

Clinton joins record number of QC public sculptures

After its first-ever national call for public sculpture entries, Quad City Arts is coordinating placement of a record 30 outdoor sculptures throughout the region. Since 2002, Quad City Arts has been a pivotal force in shaping the cultural and urban landscape of the area through the public sculpture program, including six in the city of Clinton for the first time. “Windwave II” by Bill McGrath (Batavia, Ill.), being installed in Riverview Drive, Clinton. "The Quad City Arts Public Sculpture Program not only invigorates the community by introducing fresh perspectives but also promotes a dynamic urban landscape,” executive director Kevin Maynard said recently. “Our recent Arts and Economic Prosperity Study highlights that over 80% of community members view art, including our public sculpture program, as a 'positive experience in a troubled world.' We are thrilled to see this program supported at record levels by our local municipalities, showcasing the profound impact of the arts in our community,” he said. Sculptures, chosen by committees from each city or venue, are leased for one year from talented sculptors across the nation. Dawn Wohlford-Metallo, visual arts director for Quad City Arts, said Friday that since the program increased the number of sculptures needed, the call for entries expanded nationwide – compared to the traditional Midwest call, within a 350-mile radius. They got over 100 submissions, and of the 30 to be placed (mostly next week), by June 25, most are from artists in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Missouri, but also include Washington State, Maryland, Colorado and North Carolina. "Full Sail II" by John Kamrath (St. Paul, Minn.) on Riverview Drive in Clinton. The city of Clinton, Iowa approached QC Arts about taking part in the program, which is a true partnership among their parks and recreation, public works, and library staffs, Wohlford-Metallo said. “They went all in -- four are right on the riverfront, and two are near the riverfront,” she said. The Clinton sculptures will be at: “Point” by Bill McGrath (Batavia, IL), Riverview Drive “Windwave II” by Bill McGrath (Batavia, IL), Riverview Drive “Breezin' Series #3” by Jim Wolnosky (Bath, MI), Riverview Drive (near city pool) “Full Sail II” by John Kamrath (St. Paul, MN), Riverview Drive “Opportunity Doors” by Matt Moyer (Columbia, MO), 611 S. 3rd St. (City Hall parking lot) “Enchantment of Reading” by James Haire (Ft. Collins, CO), 306 8th Ave. S. (Public Library) “This year, Moline is trying something new. Five of the sculptures are on 5thAvenue, to create a sculpture walk,” Wohlford-Metallo said Friday, noting a new sculpture at the KONE Building is a repeat site. Many sites rotate different sculptures each year, and typically one city decides to purchase one to keep permanently, though none did in 2023, she said. "Action Reaction" by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, Mo.) at the KONE Building, north of River Drive off 17th St., Moline (photo by Jonathan Turner). The Moline sculptures (chosen by the Moline Public Art Commission) are: “Action Reaction” by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, MO), Kone Building, 1 Montgomery Drive “Air Garden” by Steven Buduo (St. Louis, MO), 14th St. and 5th Ave. “Portal to Metamorphosis II” by Glory Hartsfield (Stella, MO), 1605 5th Ave. “Whistlepig” by Steve Feren (Fitchburg, WI), 1801 5th Ave. “Helicopter Seeds” by Brian Ferriby (Empire, MI), Heritage Place Plaza “Florette II” by Sam Spiczka (Apex, N.C.), 504 17th St. The most exciting part of the process is watching a Hampton Crane operator use their boom to lift a sculpture from an artist’s vehicle, hoist it high in the air, and skillfully bring it down gently onto a concrete pad, as directed by the artist who created it, Quad City Arts said. The artist will then drill holes into the concrete and secure the sculpture. (Hampton Cranes generously donates their services, which were not needed in Clinton). The sculpture "High Steppin'" by Andrew Arvanetes (on sale for $16,750) has been on display the past year at Rock Island's 18th Avenue and 17th Street, due to replaced this month with another leased sculpture (photo by Jonathan Turner). Rock Island is introducing sculptures to beautify two parks and two libraries., while Bettendorf focuses on drawing attention to local businesses and public spaces. Downtown Davenport enriches its collection with new pieces along 2nd Street, and the city of Clinton celebrates its new participation with wind-themed sculptures along the Mississippi River. The DeWitt Fine Arts Foundation and the DeWitt Community Library are partnering to create a sculpture garden, featuring two sculptures this year. The other locations are: Rock Island (Rock Island Public Art Commission): “Caution Pump” by Matt Moyer (Columbia, MO), Five Points, 18th Ave. and 17th Street “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” by Anna Modeland (Somers, IA), Southwest Branch Library: 9010 Ridgewood Rd. “Bear” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI), Longview Park, 1300 17th Street “Wayward Moose” by Steve Feren (Fitchburg, WI), Downtown Public Library, 401 19th St.Bettendorf (City of Bettendorf, Geifman Properties): “Balancing Act” by John Adduci (Chicago, IL), Veteran’s Memorial Park entrance “Writing Figure” by V. Skip Willits (Camanche, IA), Faye’s Field. 2850 Learning Campus Dr. “Colossus” by Andrew Arvanetes (Kankakee, IL), Waterfront Convention Center, 2021 State St. “Rotating Through the Universe” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI), Build to Suit (River’s Edge Business Park) 1805 State St. "Windblown” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA, Community Center lawn, 2204 Grant Street “The Catch” by Anna Modeland (Somers, IA), Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. (leased for the 2nd year) “Twist” by Michael Young (Chicago), Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. (leased for the second year, in new location) “Bench, Please” by Ben Pierce (Cape Girardeau, MO), Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W.  Davenport (The Downtown Davenport Partnership): “Oxbow” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA). Parking Ramp on W. 2nd Street. “The Feather” by Kirk Seese (Lutherville, MD). Current Hotel, entrance. 2nd & Main. “Collaborative Communication” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI). 129 Main St., Common Chord Courtyard “We're Here” by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, MO), Figge Art Museum Plaza, 225 W. Second St. “Fowl Play” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA), RiverCenter, east entrance, 2nd St. DeWitt Community Library (DeWitt Fine Arts Foundation) “Agua Dorada” by Peter Gray (Chicago, IL) “Learning to Fly” by Dale Compton (Chehalis, Washington) These artworks are available for purchase by individuals, businesses, or cities for permanent installation post-June 2025. All sculptures, both newly installed and those purchased from past exhibits, can be explored (after all have been installed) on the Quad City Arts Public Sculpture site.Public sculptures will also be updated on the Visit Quad Cities Public Art Trail website. QC Arts encourages everyone to share their experiences and interactions with the sculptures on social media using #QuadCityArts on Instagram or by tagging @QuadCityArts on Facebook.

Quad-City Times Putnam Museum names new CEO Quad-City Times

Putnam Museum names new CEO

Putnam Museum's board named Cindy Diehl Yang the new CEO of the Davenport museum and science center.

WVIK IDOT hosts career fair at the Rock Island Holiday Inn June 11 WVIK

IDOT hosts career fair at the Rock Island Holiday Inn June 11

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is holding a career fair this Tuesday from 2 to 6 pm at the Holiday Inn in Rock Island.

KWQC TV-6  82-year-old woman dies in crash in Knox County KWQC TV-6

82-year-old woman dies in crash in Knox County

The Knox County Sheriff’s Office said an 82-year-old woman from Wataga, Illinois, was eastbound on U.S. 34 when the 2017 Buick she was driving went off the road, onto County Highway 9.

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Celebrate Independence Day with East Moline

The City of East Moline invites you to enjoy fireworks and family fun at the 2024 Independence Day Celebration! Kick off the holiday Wednesday, July 3 with fireworks at River Bend Park, located at 900 Bend Blvd., East Moline. The kids' zone is 5:45-8:15 p.m., featuring carnival games, face painting, tattoo stations, bubble magic and balloon art. Enjoy live music from For Those About to Yacht from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Start your July 4 at the East Moline Fire Department pancake breakfast from 6:30-11:00 a.m. Run or walk in the Genesis Firecracker Run. Get creative and celebrate the holiday through the eyes of a child with the 4th of July Parade in downtown East Moline. Bands and musical acts like brass bands, jazz bands, marching bands, pep bands are invited, and their entry fees are waived! The parade starts at 1:00 p.m. For parade entry, click here. Entry deadline is June 28. For a listing of events for East Moline's 2024 Independence Day Celebration, click here.

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Man shot and wounded in Davenport early Friday morning

Police say the shooting happened in the 800 block of West 3rd Street around 2 a.m. Friday morning. A victim was transported to a local hospital.

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2 injured in Galesburg shooting

The public is asked to avoid the area of the 900 block of E. South Street.

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Davenport chiropractor gets 3 years in prison

Once he completes his prison sentence, he will serve five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

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1 dead, 2 injured in Knox County crash

According to the Knox County Sheriff's Office, the driver of the vehicle, an 82-year-old woman, was killed in the crash.

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A look at “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.” | Take a Look

This week on “Take a Look” with Mark S. Allen: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are back “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.”

OurQuadCities.com Clinton, Muscatine projects win preservation prizes OurQuadCities.com

Clinton, Muscatine projects win preservation prizes

Historic preservation projects in Clinton and Muscatine are among eight honored this week by Preservation Iowa, with their annual Preservation at its Best Awards. They honor individuals, organizations, projects, and programs whose work demonstrates a commitment to excellence in historic preservation. The awards were presented as part of the 2024 Preserve Iowa Summit held in Mt. Pleasant this week. Eight historic preservation awards were given out across the state by Preservation Iowa. “Preservation Iowa, a state-wide non-profit advocate for preservation projects in Iowa, honors projects and people who truly demonstrate preservation’s power to change the future of Iowa,” Jim Davies, Preservation Iowa Awards Coordinator, said in a press release. “These awards honor thousands of volunteer hours and over $66 million of investment in Iowa’s economy. Without the combination of private funding, historic tax credits, grant awards, and public dollars, projects like these would not happen. The Wilson Lofts converted the 1914 Wilson Building in Clinton to a mixed-use development featuring 33 apartments. Eight awards were presented in eight categories and ranged throughout Iowa: Clinton, Des Moines, Elkader, Lost Nation, McGregor, Mt. Pleasant, Muscatine, and Sioux City. The two ones in our region are: Public/Non-Profit Structure Award Project: Rehabilitation of Historic Japanese Garden, Muscatine Owner: Muscatine Art Center/City of Muscatine. The only surviving Japanese-style garden predating World War II, installed in 1930, was gifted to the city of Muscatine in 1964. It has been restored to its original historic character after collaborating with Iowa State University and author/garden researcher Beth Cody. The Historic Japanese Garden (installed in 1930) was restored at Muscatine Art Center. Adaptive Reuse/Mixed-Use Award Project: Wilson Lofts, Clinton Owner: Economic Growth Corporation, Rock Island. The Wilson Building, built in 1914, housed professional offices and retail stores in downtown Clinton. It has now been transformed into a dynamic, mixed-use development featuring 33 apartments. For more information about Preservation Iowa, click HERE.

OurQuadCities.com DeWitte Grischow named to Fourth District Appellate Court OurQuadCities.com

DeWitte Grischow named to Fourth District Appellate Court

Seventh Circuit Judge Raylene DeWitte Grischow has been assigned to the Fourth District Appellate Court of Illinois. According to a release from the Illinois Supreme Court, Grischow earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Illinois State University and Juris Doctor from the Washington University School of Law. She was a partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP from 2002-2018. She served as one of the business development leaders for the firm’s Government Practice Group and as a Network Coordinator for the firm's Women Attorneys Network. Grischow was appointed to the bench as a Resident Circuit Judge in the Seventh Circuit for Sangamon County in 2019 and elected in 2020. She was assigned to the felony division and complex civil litigation and overseeing the Veteran’s Treatment Specialty Court. Raylene DeWitte Grischow (Illinois Supreme Court) Grischow has been affiliated with the Illinois Judge’s Association and the Central Illinois Women's Bar Association and the Sangamon County Bar Association, both of which she served as president. She also served as vice-chairperson of the Illinois Supreme Court Committee on Professional Responsibility. “I want to thank Justice Lisa Holder White and the Supreme Court for having confidence in me and providing me with this amazing opportunity,” Grischow said. “I am excited to embrace this new position and work with the esteemed justices of the Fourth District Appellate Court.” “Judge Raylene DeWitte Grischow will make an outstanding addition to the Appellate Court,” Justice Holder White said. “She is an accomplished, hardworking, community-minded person who maintains the highest ethical standards. I am confident she will thrive at the appellate level.” Grischow is being assigned to fill the vacancy created by the impending retirement of Justice John W. Turner on July 5, 2024. The assignment of Grischow is effective July 8, 2024. The Fourth District Appellate Court is composed of 41 counties in central and western Illinois: Adams, Boone, Brown, Calhoun, Carroll, Cass, Ford, Fulton, Greene, Hancock, Henderson, Henry, Jersey, Jo Daviess, Knox, Lee, Livingston, Logan, Macoupin, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, McLean, Menard, Mercer, Morgan, Ogle, Peoria, Pike, Putnam, Rock Island, Sangamon, Schuyler, Scott, Stark, Stephenson, Tazewell, Warren, Whiteside, Winnebago and Woodford

OurQuadCities.com Taste of Ethiopia to close at end of month OurQuadCities.com

Taste of Ethiopia to close at end of month

After eight years, the owners of Taste of Ethiopia restaurant will retire and the business will close at the end of this month. Owners George and Genet Moraetes (who are in their 60s) posted this week on Facebook that this is the right time to retire, spend more time with family, friends and do some traveling. Taste of Ethiopia (founded in 2016 at 102 S. Harrison St., Davenport) will permanently close at the end of this June. Taste of Ethiopia is at 102 S. Harrison St., Davenport. “Now the good news is we have found a fantastic restaurant called ‘I Love Fufu’ to take over the location, and they will be adding our most popular Ethiopian dishes to their already amazing menu!” the restaurant posted. “We will be sticking around for a few months to help the new owners during the transition,” the post said. “So please come by and wish us well as we ease into Retirement and meet the new owners Regina and Julius. They are really good people and we hope you will support them as you have supported us since the day we opened.” For more information on Taste of Ethiopia (located next to the Freight House), click HERE.

OurQuadCities.com Putnam picks new president & CEO OurQuadCities.com

Putnam picks new president & CEO

The Putnam Museum & Science Center will have a new president & CEO starting after the July 4 holiday. After a national search, the nonprofit’s Board of Trustees Friday announced the appointment of Cindy Diehl Yang as CEO, replacing Rachael Mullins, who retired this past January and served as president/CEO since 2019. Cindy Diehl Yang of Cedar Falls will become the next Putnam president and CEO. Yang has over 20 years of leadership experience in innovative nonprofit organizations and 18 years’ experience in executive leadership, according to a Friday Putnam release. Currently, she is a Vice President at VGM Group of Waterloo, Iowa, and leads the online education division of this national company comprising 22 divisions dedicated to healthcare and corporate business solutions. Before that, Yang was director of the Center for Educational Transformation at the University of Northern Iowa. She has extensive membership and fundraising experience in earlier roles as executive director of the Executives’ Club of Chicago and from 2004-2010 was executive vice president of Associated Colleges of Illinois, where she spearheaded important statewide partnerships between colleges and high need public schools and communities. Her record of success includes earned revenue development, fundraising, membership and program development, strategic planning, and online learning systems. The Putnam Museum and Science Center is at 1717 W. 12th St., Davenport. “Cindy brings a breadth and depth of leadership experience perfectly matched for the Putnam’s needs and vision for the future as the leading center for history, science and hands-on learning in the region,” Putnam board president and search committee co-chair Kerry Smith said in Friday’s release. “Since its founding more than 150 years ago, the Putnam has been about discovery, learning and connecting the sciences and history to the community,” he added. The Putnam Giant Screen Theater. Dana Wilkinson, Putnam trustee and search committee co-chair, said: “Cindy brings many years’ experience developing innovative programming, membership development and exceptional fundraising success. She is an entrepreneur and seasoned nonprofit leader.” Yang has a Master of Arts degree in interdisciplinary arts non-profit leadership from Columbia College in Chicago and throughout her career has served on many community boards, and committees. She has been a member and volunteer of national and regional organizations including the American Alliance of Museums, Hawkeye Community College Foundation Board, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Women in Leadership Mentorship Committee at VGM, and the National College Access Network. Putnam president/CEO Rachael Mullins (who retired in January 2024) at the opening of the new "Common Ground" exhibit on April 14, 2023 (photo by Jonathan Turner). “I am thrilled and honored to be selected to lead the Putnam Museum & Science Center as it enters its next phase of growth and sets strategic direction for the next generation of visitors,” she said Friday. “As I reflect on the importance of the Putnam, I marvel at its long history of service to the community and the thousands of visitors who have been inspired by its programs, collections and exhibitions. Start at Peoria Art Guild “It was my career start as Education and Outreach Director at the Peoria Art Guild many years ago that set me on my path of nonprofit service to communities…and now to lead Putnam is truly exciting,” Yang said. “I am thrilled to welcome Cindy to the Quad Cities cultural community,” said Jen Lewis, executive director of the Quad Cities Cultural Trust and member of the search committee. “The Quad Cities Cultural Trust has invested annually in the Putnam for the last 17 years because we know culture matters here and it always will. Interim co-CEO Kelly Lao (the Putnam vice president for museum experiences) spoke at the museum's annual Power Breakfast May 15, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). “Attracting and retaining talent like Cindy is indicative of the growth our region continues to make. Great things are ahead for the Putnam and QCCT will remain a proud investor,” Lewis added. “I was honored to be a member of the Search Committee, and excited to recommend Cindy as the Putnam’s next CEO.” said Greg Schermer, Putnam trustee. “The Putnam is a great institution and resource for the Quad Cities. There is work to be done to drive this museum and learning center forward in the community, and Cindy is the right executive to realize the potential of this fine institution. The Putnam will do wonderful new programs, outreach, and exhibits for the community under her leadership.” Yang will begin work right after the July 4th holiday. She currently lives in Cedar Falls with her husband and two daughters. The national search was conducted by Daniel Keegan of Museum Leadership Placement.

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One dead after Knox County traffic crash

The Knox County Sheriff's Office is investigating a fatal traffic crash. According to a release, on Thursday, June 6 at 5:37 p.m., a 2017 Buick was traveling east on U.S. Highway 34 and left the roadway on the south side of the highway at Knox Highway 9. The 82-year-old driver of Wataga, Ill., died as a result of the crash, and two passengers, 18 and 19, were transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance. Names of the deceased and passengers have not been released, pending next of kin notifications. The incident remains under investigation.

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Aledo Rhubarb Festival kicks off June 7

The annual Rhubarb Festival kicks off June 7 in Aledo. This marks the 32nd year for the event, a celebration of all things rhubarb. Festival-goers can enjoy pie, ice cream and soda pop featuring rhubarb. The festival is filled with vendors and entertainment and runs Friday, June 7 and Saturday June 8. For more information, click here.

OurQuadCities.com Reforms to Illinois Prisoner Review Board fail OurQuadCities.com

Reforms to Illinois Prisoner Review Board fail

Reforms to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board (HB0681) failed to pass after getting unanimous support in May. Lawmakers considered a bill that would make changes like requiring domestic violence training every year for board members and creating a task force. The move came after a man attacked a woman and killed her son in March. this was the day after the board granted him release. The proposal passed unanimously in the House and Senate, but after some changes were made in the Senate, it went back to the House and was never voted on. Gov. JB Pritzker opposed certain aspects of the bill because the proposal's changes would have required live streaming of prisoner review board hearings.

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Quad Cities bakeries are preparing for National Donut Day

From Casey's to Taco John's businesses around the Quad Cities are holding sweet deals on donuts on National Donut Day.

KWQC TV-6  Cops N’ Kids Community Book Drive happening Friday KWQC TV-6

Cops N’ Kids Community Book Drive happening Friday

Cops N’ Kids Community Book Drive happening Friday

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Great River Brewery reopening years after 2019 flood forced it to close

The Davenport business plans on bringing back its classic brews while offering new drinks and food.

Quad-City Times Musco to celebrate new fabrication facility with ribbon cutting Monday Quad-City Times

Musco to celebrate new fabrication facility with ribbon cutting Monday

Next week, on Monday, June 10, Musco Lighting will be holding a ribbon cutting and open house event for its new state-of-the-art fabrication facility, located at 1925 Stewart Road.

Quad-City Times Muscatine Junior Police Academy provides students chance to learn about law enforcement Quad-City Times

Muscatine Junior Police Academy provides students chance to learn about law enforcement

This year’s Junior Police Academy class includes a pair of best friends, Natalie Clove and Paige Bedenbender.

Quad-City Times ImpactLife recognizes Muscatine area students through annual award program Quad-City Times

ImpactLife recognizes Muscatine area students through annual award program

This week, it was announced that fourteen students from high schools within Muscatine County have received an ImpactLife Student Impact Award in recognition of the work they have done to support the region’s blood supply.

Quad-City Times Davenport considers wetlands, native seeding at Duck Creek Golf Course Quad-City Times

Davenport considers wetlands, native seeding at Duck Creek Golf Course

The city of Davenport is improving water quality through native prairie planting and stormwater wetlands at the Duck Creek Golf Course.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, June 7, 2024

Julia Jane Glockhoff, 68, of Moline, passed away May 30, 2024, at Rush Hospital, Chicago, Illinois. Arrangements are in the care of Wendt Funeral Home, Moline.

KWQC TV-6 Police: 1 person shot early Friday morning in Davenport KWQC TV-6

Police: 1 person shot early Friday morning in Davenport

According to officers on the scene, a report of shots fired came in at 1:59 a.m. Friday in the 800 block of W. 3rd St. in Davenport.

OurQuadCities.com Cook review: 'The Watchers' isn't worth watching OurQuadCities.com

Cook review: 'The Watchers' isn't worth watching

Its environments are beautiful. Its cast does everything it can to keep the story moving. But “The Watchers” is an incomprehensible mess, an idea that begins with a strong, engaging horror/thriller concept that completely falls apart at the end. This movie’s pedigree has people talking, as well it should. Filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, who is known for his twist endings, is the producer of this film that his daughter Ishana Night Shyamalan directed. The setup has the overall feel of one of the lesser movies directed by the elder Shyamalan – “The Happening,” for example, or “Lady in the Water.” Dakota Fanning stars Mina, an American grieving an earlier tragedy, lives in Dublin and works at a pet shop. She is assigned to deliver a talking conure to someone in Galway. Off Mina goes, talking constantly to the bird as she transports it and its cage in her car. She has a terrifying experience in a wooded part of Ireland: Mina ends up lost in the forest – she can’t even find her car – and still is carrying the bird cage when an older woman named Madeline (Olwen Fouere) tells Mina to get inside a sort of bunker if she wants to live through the night. Inside, Mina talks with Madeline and two other people who share the spartan space they call “The Coop,” where creatures called “The Watchers” watch them from a distance every night. During the day, the little troupe is allowed to move around in the forest – that is, if they abide by numerous rules that annoy Mina, who insists on exploring. I liked the look of forest and also “The Coop,” which has a mirror that makes things more interesting. About halfway through, just as the tension begins to accelerate, the plot begins to disintegrate, until it devolves into a ridiculous finale that will leave you scratching your head and saying "Huh?" Despite the buildup, this one really isn’t worth … watching. 1 star Rated: PG-13 for violence and horror. Running time: 101 minutes. In theaters. Watch the trailer here.

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

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City of Davenport looking for input from flood-prone property owners

The City says it will help them identify properties that would be eligible for various kinds of assistance.

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Muscatine softball coach Steve Hopkins celebrates 500 wins

Hopkins has been coaching softball for 17 years at Durant and Muscatine.

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2nd annual Pulling Focus film festival celebrating Black filmmakers underway in Davenport

The event highlights stories created by Black filmmakers from around the world, including several right here in the Quad Cities.

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Great River Brewery reopening years after 2019 flood forced it to close

The Davenport business plans on bringing back its classic brews while offering new drinks and food.

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City of Abingdon receiving $1.5M grant for infrastructure projects

It's part of $41 million in grants from the state for storm sewer and water line replacement, or other projects that prevent flooding or support public water needs.

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18th Street entrance to Rock Island Schwiebert Park closing for construction

The entrance will be closed starting Monday with work anticipated to wrap up Tuesday.

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Clock Inc. hosts art show at Figge to raise funds for its mission

The show featured more than 50 pieces of art donated by local artists, including paintings, pottery and wooden creations.

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Community leaders host 'Flowers on the River' event to honor those impacted by domestic violence

The event was hosted by Elephant Club and Family Resources. Attendees placed flowers on the Mississippi River as a symbol of lives lost.

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City of Davenport looking for input from flood-prone property owners

The City says it will help them identify properties that would be eligible for various kinds of assistance.

KWQC TV-6 Wapsi River Center staff sees large emergence of Cicadas at facility KWQC TV-6

Wapsi River Center staff sees large emergence of Cicadas at facility

The Cicadas are out in the thousands for the summer season. The staff at the Wapsi River Center says the constant ringing from the Cicadas at their facility has been going on for weeks as it’s mating time for the insects

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Meet the Quad City native painting one of Rock Island's largest public art installations

Atlanta "Dawn" Fulscher's mural will live in Arts Alley, a new space in Rock Island's downtown that will have sculptures, murals, seasonal pop-ups and performances.

OurQuadCities.com Former inmate gets fresh start with prison education program OurQuadCities.com

Former inmate gets fresh start with prison education program

Following almost 30 years of incarceration, a man is beginning what he calls the next chapter of his life. Our Quad Cities News reporter Victoria Frazier introduces us to the first graduate of Augustana College's Prison Education Program as he gets a fresh start with his new college degree. For more information on the program, click here.

KWQC TV-6 PV grad prepares for U.S. Swimming Olympic Trials KWQC TV-6

PV grad prepares for U.S. Swimming Olympic Trials

In May, Chiles swam the 200 IM in 2:03.35 and qualified for the upcoming U.S. Olympic Trials in Indianapolis by 0.14 seconds.

KWQC TV-6 Hundreds of Iowa sexual assault victims await Plan B reimbursements after audit backlog KWQC TV-6

Hundreds of Iowa sexual assault victims await Plan B reimbursements after audit backlog

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird’s office is working through a backlog of reimbursements to sexual assault survivors caused when she paused payments during an overall review.

OurQuadCities.com Cook review: 'The Beach Boys' documentary gives you (almost) endless summer OurQuadCities.com

Cook review: 'The Beach Boys' documentary gives you (almost) endless summer

I know what the calendar says. It’s technically still spring. But for me, it’s summer now. That’s because, for nearly two hours, I enjoyed the gorgeous sounds of “The Beach Boys” – along with some of their history, even the sadder parts – and it’s felt like summer ever since. 'The Beach Boys' (IMDb) I can’t imagine someone who doesn’t smile when they hear “California Girls” or “Little Deuce Coupe” or any of the other Beach Boys hits that are too numerous to list. Part of the joy is seeing the band, of course, from its beginnings – those incredible harmonies! Those iconic striped shirts! - to its performances for thousands of fan and its path to becoming America’s Band. Despite the effervescent sounds, the movie doesn’t shy away from the darker parts of the band’s history:  The built-in villain of Murray Wilson, the abusive father; the personal demons Brian Wilson faced; the group’s internal strife; the tragedies involving early losses; and the band’s connection to the notorious Charles Manson and the deadly crimes that rocked a nation – all are part of this tale. Even as the story passes through sobering times, the music is there to lift your spirits again. Not much of this will be revelatory for longtime fans. But darned if it isn’t interesting to see again in a fast-paced retrospective that has just enough of the tunes to keep you humming along. The look of the movie is like one gorgeous postcard, from the studio to the stage and, of course, to the surf. Yes, the final scene is well-choreographed and meant to touch the heart … and it does just that. Regardless of whether you end up your reaching for your earbuds, vinyl or eight tracks, this will leave you wanting to hear more. 3 1/2 stars Running time: One hour and 53 minutes. Rated: PG-13 for foul language and other adult material. Streaming on Disney+ Watch the trailer here.

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Rotarians will collect food at Hy-Vee, Rock Island

The Quad Cities Illinois Rotary will be at the Rock Island Hy-Vee on Saturday, June 8, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the Rotary Food Drive, according to a news release. Volunteers will collect non-perishable and shelf-stable foods to benefit those in need. All donations will go to St. John’s Lutheran Church Pantry in East Moline. The food drive is a Rotary District Project to support the community. The Rotary believes in "Service Over Self. " For more information, contact Marcy O’Brien, with the Quad Cities Illinois Rotary Committee, at 309-781-7721. 

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Deere resolves discrimination allegations, pays $1.1 million back wages, interest

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has entered into a conciliation agreement with Deere & Co. to resolve alleged systemic hiring discrimination affecting Black and Hispanic applicants at three of the global agricultural, construction and forestry equipment manufacturer’s production facilities in Illinois and Iowa, according to a news release from the U. S. Department of Labor, Chicago. John Deere (deere.com) The agreement follows routine compliance evaluations by OFCCP that found hiring disparities at the company’s facilities in Milan, Illinois, and Ankeny and Waterloo, Iowa, the release says. Preliminary findings alleged discrimination against 33 Black and 12 Hispanic applicants for warehouse positions in Milan; 36 Black applicants for assembler positions in Ankeny; and against 196 Black applicants for production positions in Waterloo. Executive Order 11246 prohibits federal contractors from discriminating in employment based on race, sex, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. To resolve the allegations, Deere & Co. will pay $1,105,000 in back wages and interest to affected job applicants and provide 53 job offers to eligible class members. As part of the agreement, the Moline-based company will also evaluate its personnel practices, including its record-keeping and internal auditing procedures. “Over the past 58 years, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs has helped define and defend equal employment opportunity in the American workplace. We are committed to tackling employment policies and practices that create barriers to opportunity and perpetuate inequality,” said Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Acting Director Michele Hodge. “Companies that accept federal contracts must monitor their hiring processes to ensure applicants are not rejected based on unlawful practices.” Deere & Co. is a contractor for federal agencies, including the departments of Agriculture, the Army, the Interior and Transportation as well as the Defense Logistics Agency and the U.S. Forest Service. “The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to protecting America’s job seekers from employment discrimination,” said Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Midwest Regional Director Carmen Navarro. “The settlement reached with Deere & Co. resolves the hiring discrimination uncovered by OFCCP and ensures actions will be taken to correct and prevent a recurrence of discrimination.” OFCCP launched the Class Member Locator to identify applicants or workers who may be entitled to monetary relief and/or consideration for job placement as a result of compliance evaluations and complaint investigations. If you think you may be a class member who applied for positions with Deere & Co. use OFCCP’s Class Member Locator to learn more about this and other settlements. In addition to Executive Order 11246, OFCCP enforces Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Together, these laws prohibit employment discrimination, the release says.

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IowaWORKS hosts job fair in Davenport for open school staff positions

Several districts were in attendance looking for secretaries, nurses, coaches and technology technicians. Available jobs are listed at iowaworks.gov.

OurQuadCities.com The Heart of the Story: Flying like a bird OurQuadCities.com

The Heart of the Story: Flying like a bird

Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies, and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. Ever wonder what it would be like to fly like a bird? Our Quad Cities News takes to the air with a professional crop duster to capture the thrill of being in the pilots seat. Gary Metivier gets to the Heart of the Story. Gary Metivier has The Heart of the Story above and even more about their story and what happens next on YouTube. You can also listen to the extended versions on his podcast. The Heart of the Story with Gary Metivier is available on all platforms -- and now Our Quad Cities News. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Podbean

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Illinois State Sen. Mike Halpin announces funding for area mental health clinics

The Robert Young Center in Moline and Rock Island, along with Bridgeway Inc. in Galesburg, will receive federal funding.

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Soccer programs coming to middle schools in Moline-Coal Valley School District

It will be available at John Deere and Wilson middle schools. Boys will play in the fall and girls will play in the spring.

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Illinois announces $2M in grant funding for libraries across the state

Several libraries in the area are eligible to apply for funding, including Galesburg, Kewanee, Sterling and Rock Falls.

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Why aren't cicadas emerging in the Quad Cities?

17-year cicadas are emerging across Northern Illinois, but they're avoiding the immediate Quad Cities.

OurQuadCities.com Destination Illinois: International Dark Sky Park OurQuadCities.com

Destination Illinois: International Dark Sky Park

Our Quad Cities News takes you on a journey across the Land of Lincoln for some unique places to visit in Illinois. If you're searching for a one-of-a-kind experience to see the stars, you only need to go as far as Mahomet in central Illinois. Our Quad Cities News correspondent Jacob Dickey takes us to Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, an International Dark Sky Park, in Destination Illinois. For more information, click here.

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Family Resources announces second round of layoffs

It comes after 26 employees were laid off in early May.

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Where are cicadas in the immediate Quad Cities?

17-year cicadas are emerging across Northern Illinois, but they're avoiding the immediate Quad Cities.

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Looking for work? IowaWorks hosts event to fill teacher shortage

IowaWorks is helping fill staffing shortages in local schools with their educational hiring event.

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Rock Island County Health Department handing out free Narcan

Narcan is a nasal form of naloxone, a drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.

OurQuadCities.com Therapy dogs spread sunshine to seniors OurQuadCities.com

Therapy dogs spread sunshine to seniors

Nursing home The Ivy at Davenport hosted some four-legged friends, a group of therapy dogs who helped residents have a spot of sunshine for their Wednesday. Therapy dog trainer Jennifer Hamner says she and her dog, Freddy, have been on over 300 visits to other nursing homes and hospitals over the years, and every visit is worth it. "Nobody's sad to see you walk in the door with a therapy dog," Hamner said. "Freddy was certified in 2021, so it's been over three years, and he's been on over 300 therapy dog visits." Those visits have helped Freddy's trainer find a purpose for herself in volunteering and helping the mental health of everyone that greets her dog. "It's such a joy because you see all the smiles," Hamner said. "Whether you're in a hospital or a senior living center, you just see the smiles and you know that you've brightened somebody's day. Even just for a little or the whole day, dogs are great at making people smile." Working for the Bettendorf School District, Hamner has seen therapy dogs before and how they benefit other people. That's part of the reason why she wanted to do it as well. "We got Freddy as a puppy," Hamner said. "I knew I wanted to train him as a therapy dog, which we did, and ended up getting certified. I met a bunch of other people with therapy dogs, and we became good friends. We like to now go on visits together. We go to a lot of the local senior living centers, care centers, hospitals, all volunteers to take our dogs to help bring a little joy to people's day." In addition to the residents enjoying the time with dogs, therapy dogs also benefit from their trainers. "I get a lot of enjoyment out of it," Hamner said. "I feel like I'm contributing to people and their wellbeing. It's good for Freddy because it keeps him engaged, and it helps our friendships with the other dogs too." The Ivy at Davenport will host future events in the month of June, including birthday parties and games of Family Feud, to bring residents together and enjoy being with each other.

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AG Bird: You should know if protection order expired before seeing abuser at store

After a nearly year-and-a-half long audit of the state’s crime victim services, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said her office discovered significant gaps in how the state keeps people safe.

KWQC TV-6  AG Bird: You should known if protection order expired before seeing abuser at store KWQC TV-6

AG Bird: You should known if protection order expired before seeing abuser at store

After a nearly year-and-a-half long audit of the state’s crime victim services, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said her office discovered significant gaps in how the state keeps people safe.

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Catch a pop music history classic 'Jersey Boys' at Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse

Tickets for the season are $56 for Wednesday matinees and evening shows, and $63 for evening shows on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

QCOnline.com Dems declare ‘Illinois is on the right track’ as Pritzker signs $53.1 billion budget QCOnline.com

Dems declare ‘Illinois is on the right track’ as Pritzker signs $53.1 billion budget

Fending off critics of the largest budget in Illinois history, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the $53.1 billion spending plan will support economic development, relief for the poor and other priorities.

KWQC TV-6  Crime Stoppers: $15K reward for arrest in murder of Tavian Petersen-Brown KWQC TV-6

Crime Stoppers: $15K reward for arrest in murder of Tavian Petersen-Brown

Can you help police find who murdered 26-year-old Tavian Petersen-Brown?

KWQC TV-6  Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Davenport police and in Scott Co. KWQC TV-6

Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Davenport police and in Scott Co.

Have you seen him?

KWQC TV-6  Crime Stoppers: Woman wanted in Rock Island County on multiple charges KWQC TV-6

Crime Stoppers: Woman wanted in Rock Island County on multiple charges

Have you seen her?

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Rock Island County Health Department handing out free Narcan

The Department is working to increase the amount of Narcan kits circulating around the community.

OurQuadCities.com Sink into sweet summer fun at the Long Grove Strawberry Festival OurQuadCities.com

Sink into sweet summer fun at the Long Grove Strawberry Festival

It's time once again to celebrate community, family fun and strawberries with a sweet tradition in the QCA! Scott Hoag stopped by Our Quad Cities News with all the delicious details about the Long Grove Strawberry Festival and Strawberry Stampede. For more information, click here.

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New Era Cap looks to expand reach with purchase of sport and lifestyle company

New Era Cap announced Thursday that it is purchasing global fashion brand ’47 with the goal of expanding and diversifying its product portfolio of apparel and accessories.

OurQuadCities.com Another new mural coming to downtown R.I. OurQuadCities.com

Another new mural coming to downtown R.I.

The transformation of downtown Rock Island will also include a new Metro Arts mural to replace an 18-year-old one on the side of the former Goodyear building, at 4th Avenue and 19th Street. Sarah Robb of Davenport, a well-known area muralist, is starting her 18th year as a lead artist for Metro Arts, a paid apprenticeship program for local high school and college students through Quad City Arts. The Rock Island site is one of two murals she'll work on this summer for five weeks. Damage to the left edge of the mural (at Rock Island's 4th Avenue and 19th Street) being repaired Thursday, June 6, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). The old sepia-toned Goodyear mural (facing the downtown Rock Island Public Library) was done in 2006 -- Robb’s first year in Metro Arts -- by Loren Shaw Hellige and her daughter Helayna, depicting several key figures from QC history. The 24,000-square-foot building was constructed in the 1920s for a Nash car dealership; the Goodyear bays were added in 1964, and Goodyear pulled out in 2006, the same year the mural was done, said owner Scott Hughes, who has owned the property for three years. “It’s a cool old building,” he said Thursday. Scott Hughes, who owns the century-old building, seen inside his business June 6, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). Robb is friends with Hughes and his wife. He told the artist, “that wall needs some love.” There was water damage that caused part of the left edge of the wall to come off. They recently removed that part of the wall down to its brick; it was covered with a foam material. Hughes’s company will have it all smoothed out and primed white before Metro Arts starts on its new mural. “He wants a theme of American workers,” Robb said. “Teaching our young people the tradition of these trades, things that are getting lost in our culture a little bit.” The mural will include a large American flag, the medallions of all five armed services, and representatives of American workers in a variety of construction trades. The exterior of the former Goodyear Tires building, which was vacant from 2006 until Hughes bought it in 2021 (photo by Jonathan Turner). The design will be done by students, who will first meet Monday, June 10 at the Figge Art Museum. Both groups will meet each other and work on their designs together, unlike past years, when they met separately, Robb said. It’s one week of design work and then four weeks of painting, starting June 17. “The roof was just let go; the water got behind the brick and inside the brick,” Hughes said of the mural wall damage. “Once that water started to heat up during the summer and freeze during winter, it popped all that off.” They’re going to put a nice flat surface over the wall, so they can prime it. The old surface was an insulated foam system, which was cheap, he said. Sarah Robb and one of her paintings at her Davenport paint shop (photo by Jonathan Turner). The new surface will be much finer and thinner, which will be more resistant to water, Hughes said. “It will be a blank canvas, and away they go,” he said. ‘An old country boy’ “I’m an old country boy, my old man raised me different,” Hughes said of his father in Jo Daviess County, where he also was a general contractor and a Navy veteran. Hughes is a general contractor, whose businesses include Quality Control Restoration and First General Construction (photo by Jonathan Turner). “He taught me how to weld, things like that, at a young age. I just want to make sure kids that are coming along, they can get a very nice, well-paying job that’s very satisfying, actually building something that doesn’t require an app,” he said. “And I like to support the armed services whenever possible.” He hopes the mural will include people buildings things with wood and metal. Hughes has a plaque from the wall that says who each historical person was, and a statement about the artists. That will be preserved in the building. “I’d like to do a little tribute on it,” he said, noting he can do intricate engravings in his woodshop, to be part of that. “Who knows, we can hang that up somewhere so people can see it.” Jack Cullen, executive director of the Rock Island Downtown Alliance, approached Hughes about renovations to the building, including replacing the old mural. The first part of Atlanta Dawn's new mural going up on the west-facing wall at Arts Alley (1700 block of 2nd Avenue, Rock Island), expected to be done on June 18. “As we’re making a major investment in new murals in downtown’s Arts Alley, it’s satisfying to see blighted public art get properly repaired or replaced with additional new works,” Cullen said Thursday. “Scott Hughes and his team at First General Construction are great new downtown neighbors and owners of the former Goodyear Tires building and they’re certainly showcasing that level of stewardship by partnering with the city of Rock Island and Quad City Arts on this Metro Arts project. “They have a lot of exciting improvements and business activities in the works, and I’m excited to see the full vision develop there on 4th Avenue between the new Federal Building and YWCA,” Cullen added. Robb said it fits with the $8.7-million revitalization of the core downtown area. Interior redone Hughes bought the two-story structure three years ago, and has renovated the first-floor interior for his businesses over that time. He’s working on the exterior renovations, which likely won’t be done for nine months. “I just like the old stuff, I like bringing it back,” Hughes said. He’s a general contractor, with four different businesses -- Quality Control Restoration, First General Construction, plus a precision woodshop and a concrete business. Robb has worked as a lead artist for the 24-year-old Metro Arts program since 2006, completing public murals all over the Quad Cities (photo by Jonathan Turner). “I’ve known Sarah personally for a number of years,” he said. “I’ve seen some of her work. I thought, she ought to come down and take a look at that mural, and then Jack’s calling me and said, ‘You gotta do your mural’.” Quality Control Restoration is a Quad Cities-based full-service construction company with offices in Bettendorf and Rock Island, with a combined 111 years of experience in the storm restoration industry. “There's finally some movement down here,” Hughes said of downtown Rock Island under construction. “We have the new federal building, the new Y that just opened. “We’re working in the right direction. It’s good to see that, where something’s actually gonna happen.” The old Goodyear building dates from the 1920s, seen with the downtown library behind it at left (photo by Jonathan Turner). The 10,000-square-foot second floor is not occupied, and that will be renovated for possible residential or business use. That includes new windows, like Hughes added on the first floor. Putnam mural Robb is leading another mural on the concrete base of the circular portion of the Putnam Museum & Science Center (which houses the Lardner Balcony) in Davenport, to cover about 50 feet in length. For the Putnam (1717 W. 12th St., Davenport), vice president Kelly Lao asked Robb to recommend nature, science and pollination themes for that mural. A 50-foot-section of this concrete base at the Putnam Museum in Davenport will be covered with a new Metro Arts mural, by mid-July. “We talked about beekeeping, the history of the Putnam family,” she said. “Each group will give the client a few options to choose from. Sometimes the client will pull from different designs, or just choose one.” “I’m looking forward to both, it’s gonna be fun,” Robb said. Last year was cool, since one of her Metro Arts groups replaced the first mural she worked on – on the building just off the Centennial Bridge in Rock Island. “That was full circle – like 17 years later, we did a full new mural. It’s pretty crazy to think of that, thinking back to my first year.” Robb will work with 24 students, including 19 who are returning from last summer. Robb recently completed this mural for the Boys & Girls Club in downtown Moline. “It’s a good year, no pun intended,” she said Thursday. She’ll work in Rock Island in the mornings and in Davenport in the afternoons. “I’m excited – they’re two really phenomenal projects.” Since the summer of 2000, Metro Arts has provided area youth 15-21 years old with paid summer apprenticeships in various arts disciplines. For more information on Metro Arts, click HERE.

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Upcoming theatre in the QCA: Clinton Area Showboat Theatre opens for the season, 'Jersey Boys' at Circa '21

Catch dinner and a show at Circa '21 in Rock Island, or ride along the river with the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre.

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RDA financial gift helps Girl Scouts offer programming in Scott County

A new monetary gift is helping Girl Scouts provide outreach programs for girls who might not otherwise be able to participate. Girl Scouts received a $25,000 gift from the Regional Development Authority (RDA) to support staff-led outreach programming for girls in the Scott County area. (Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois) “Girl Scouts’ goal is to give to all girls, no matter their backgrounds or abilities, an opportunity to reach their potential,” says Diane Nelson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. “Funding from RDA helps us to do just that and fulfill our mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character.” Over 650 girls in the Scott County region participated in the Girl Scout leadership programs. They created colorful chemical reactions, designed stencil paintings and made butter. The funding from the RDA allowed Girl Scouts to eliminate common barriers to afterschool activities, like lack of transportation or inability to pay membership fees. As a result, girls can practice healthy living, learn about STEM and develop respectful communication while working with positive adult mentors. The Girl Scout staff-led outreach program is offered to girls in schools or partner sites and removes barriers that can prevent girls from joining, like securing volunteers, paying the $25 membership fee, transportation and more. The organization provides paid staff to offer the program at the school or partner site during or after the school day. Click here to learn more about programs for Girl Scouts.

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Bix at 6 training runs begin June 13

It will be the first of four free training runs offered to those registered to run the Bix.

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Traffic Alert: Government Bridge only open to bicycle, walking traffic on intermittent basis

The Government Bridge will only be available to bicycle and walking traffic on an intermittent basis, according to officials.

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Partnership between Monmouth, ROE focused on helping more students attend college

The Illinois Regional Office of Education #33 and Monmouth College announced a new partnership to better serve students in Henderson, Knox, Mercer, and Warren counties.

KWQC TV-6  Programming: Channel 6.2 to air certain Indiana Fever games KWQC TV-6

Programming: Channel 6.2 to air certain Indiana Fever games

Several Indiana Fever games will be aired on Ion, Channel 6.2.

OurQuadCities.com Davenport man threatened to hurt elderly victims, police allege OurQuadCities.com

Davenport man threatened to hurt elderly victims, police allege

A 25-year-old Davenport man was in custody Thursday after Davenport Police allege he threatened elderly victims with physical harm, court records show. Austin Beauchamp, who was arrested Wednesday on a warrant, faces a felony charge of extortion, along with serious misdemeanor charges of fifth-degree theft against an older individual and fourth-degree criminal mischief, court records show. Austin Beauchamp (Scott County Jail) On May 21, officers responded to a disturbance at a Davenport residence, according to arrest affidavits. Beauchamp, police allege in affidavits, "has been in and out of the (residence,) threatening the victims (with) physical injury if they do not provide him with money or rides. When (Beauchamp) asks the victims for money, rides, or cigarettes and the victims do not provide them (Beauchamp) threatens to burn down the house with the victims in it." Additionally, Beauchamp told the victims "that he would kill them both if he could get away with it," police allege in affidavits. "In a fit of rage (Beauchamp) threw a Pepsi and broke two windows" at the home. The damage to the windows was about $330. Police say Beauchamp "stole the 79-year-old victim's cell phone" that cost $300. During the disturbance, Beauchamp "physically shoved the victim," putting the victim in fear of physical harm, affidavits show. Beauchamp, who was in custody Thursday in Scott County Jail, is set for a preliminary hearing June 14 in Scott County Court.

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LIVE: TV6 Investigates Talks: What goes into an investigation?

Jenna Jackson sits down with Investigative producer Heidi Knecht as they share her role and what goes into an investigative piece.

KWQC TV-6  Tour the Quad Cities to see Quad City Art’s public sculptures  KWQC TV-6

Tour the Quad Cities to see Quad City Art’s public sculptures

Since 2002, Quad City Arts has been a pivotal force in shaping the cultural and urban landscape of the Quad Cities through their Public Sculpture Program.

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Parts of Schwiebert Park closing for resealing project

Rock Island is sprucing up one of their parks, but they must close it for a couple of days first. A resealing and striping project means the parking lot and entrance into Schwiebert Riverfront Park on 18th Street and 1st Avenue will be closed on Monday, June 10, and Tuesday, June 11. The park and spray fountain will stay open and accessible at the 17th Street and First Avenue entrance. Parking is available throughout downtown Rock Island or in the parking lot across First Avenue. (City of Rock Island) The bike path through the area will be closed during the project. Bicyclists should walk their bikes around the parking lot to the river side of the park to enter the bike path again. Bicyclists are asked not to cross the parking lot entry during the project.

OurQuadCities.com Davenport caretaker with meth stole thousands from elderly victim, police allege OurQuadCities.com

Davenport caretaker with meth stole thousands from elderly victim, police allege

A 50-year-old home caretaker is in custody after police allege she stole thousands from an elderly victim with ALS, according to court records. Stacey Coudron (Scott County Jail) Stacey Coudron, who was arrested Wednesday on a warrant, faces felony charges of financial exploitation of an older individual - first offense, first-degree theft, dependent adult abuse, and possession of contraband in a correctional institution, court records say. On April 8, Davenport Police spoke with a victim about theft from a Davenport residence that occurred from May 10, 2022-March 4, 2024, according to arrest affidavits. In affidavits, police allege Coudron sent herself money from a cash app - a total of $2,974 over 23 transactions from May 10, 2022 from Oct. 7, 2022. She "also paid 12 rent payments" between April 5, 2023 to March 4, 20224, totaling $16,730, affidavits show. "The victim was unaware of these transactions and did not give (Coudron) permission for any of these transactions," police say in affidavits. "(Coudron) was able to access the victim's financial information because of her status of at-home nurse/caretaker." The victim is an elderly person with ALS who was unable to set up their new computer, affidavits show, adding "This is how (Coudron) was able to take advantage of the victim." On Wednesday, Davenport Police transported Coudron to Scott County Jail on her active warrant shortly after 1:45 p.m. Wednesday. Prior to transporting her, officers asked Coudron whether she had "anything on her person she should not have," affidavits say. She said she did not. Affidavits show that, once inside the jail, jail staff located a small bag of white/crystal substance in the defendant's front left pants pocket. The substance weighed 1.05 grams total package weight and tested positive for methamphetamine. Coudron was being held on a total $30,000 bond Thursday in Scott County Jail, and is set for a preliminary hearing June 14 in Scott County Court. What is ALS? The disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is also known as ALS. It is a disease of the nervous system that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, and causes loss of muscle control. The disease worsens over time. FILE - New York Yankees' Lou Gehrig poses at a spring training game in St. Petersburg, Fla., in this March 16, 1935, file photo. Major League Baseball will hold its first Lou Gehrig Day on June 2, 2021, adding Gehrig to Jackie Robinson and Roberto Clemente on the short list of players honored throughout the big leagues. (AP Photo/Tom Sande, File) It is also called Lou Gehrig's disease after the famous baseball player who was diagnosed with it.

OurQuadCities.com 'A Quiet Place' coming to Universal theme parks OurQuadCities.com

'A Quiet Place' coming to Universal theme parks

Created by Bettendorf natives Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the creepy, tense world of “A Quiet Place” continues to make a lot of noise in the world of mass entertainment. After the first two films of the franchise grossed over half a billion dollars worldwide, and the prequel “A Quiet Place: Day One” due to hit theaters June 28, the series’ post-apocalyptic world will come to an all-new chilling haunted house at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights. The terror of the excruciating silence is set to begin Friday, Aug. 30 at Universal Orlando Resort, and Thursday, Sept. 5 at Universal Studios Hollywood, according to a Thursday release from Universal. Directed by John Krasinski and critically acclaimed for its suspenseful yet mostly silent storytelling, A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II follow the Abbott family as they try to survive the aftermath of sightless creatures with a sharp sense of hearing that draws them to prey on anything that makes the slightest noise. A scene from the "A Quiet Place" Halloween Horror Nights announcement video. Beck and Woods came up with the story, and co-wrote the original 2018 horror hit with Krasinski, who entirely wrote and directed the 2020 sequel. He and his wife Emily Blunt starred in the first two films – the first grossing $341 million (on a $17-million budget) and the second in 2021 raking in $297 million worldwide. “A Quiet Place Part II” had its world premiere in New York City on March 8, 2020. After over a year of postponements due to the COVID pandemic, it was theatrically released in the U.S. on May 28, 2021. It became available to stream on Paramount+ 45 days after its theatrical debut. The film set several box office records, including the biggest opening weekend during the course of the pandemic, and grossed $297.4 million worldwide. A third and final sequel, A Quiet Place Part III, directed by Krasinski, is in development and scheduled to be released in 2025. The franchise also includes a video game set within the same fictional universe that is in development by Saber Interactive. “A Quiet Place: Day One” was written and directed by Michael Sarnoski, based on a story by him and Krasinski. Mirroring the silence in the films, the Universal haunted houses will embrace unique sound design, special effects and the adept performances of the scare actors to convey the ominous sense of dread depicted in the films. Consequential to the storyline, Halloween Horror Nights will incorporate the use of American Sign Language (ASL) for the first time ever within the “A Quiet Place” haunted houses to capture the authenticity of the films. Fans will relive the tension that will come to life in the iconic scenes from the first two films, including traveling through the farmhouse that serves as the Abbott family’s shelter and stepping into the root cellar where Evelyn Abbott escapes to give birth as one of the creatures closes in, the theme parks’ release said. The snarls of the larger-than-life predators will follow guests at every spine-chilling turn, and guests must remember: if they hear you, they will hunt you. Horror fans and movie buffs can now plan their visit to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood as all tickets are available for purchase. A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options are available for purchase to the Universal Studios Hollywood event, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7 p.m. event opening time, the premium R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear and Ultimate Fear, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. Click here to purchase tickets. Last Picture House series Beck and Woods are the primary owners and founders of the Last Picture House, a two-screen independent movie theater in downtown Davenport, with a cocktail lounge and recently opened rooftop bar with its own screen. After showing Charlie Chaplin’s “City Lights” on Wednesday, June 5, “Playtime” is next up in "The Films That Inspired A Quiet Place" screening series, with introductions by Beck and Woods. “You've likely never seen this film, or anything like it, and it demands to be viewed on the largest screen imaginable,” says The Last Picture House Facebook page. “Playtime” will be screened at 7 p.m., Wednesday June 12. "Jacques Tati's 1967 masterpiece still holds up as a feast of subtle sight gags, playful noise and, above all, visual wonders." (Time Out) You can get your tickets HERE. Scott Beck (left) and Bryan Woods (right) attended the “65” premiere March 7, 2023, with stars Adam Driver and Ariana Greenblatt at AMC Lincoln Square in New York City (Sony Pictures). And the third film in the series will be Paul Thomas Anderson's “There Will Be Blood” (starring Daniel Day-Lewis) on June 19 at 7 p.m. “A Quiet Place: Day One” comes to the theater on Thursday, June 27. For more information on Last Picture House (325 E. 2nd St., Davenport), click HERE.