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

Sunday, April 28th, 2024
	Pet dies in morning fire in Galesburg One pet died in a house fire in Galesburg this morning, according to a news release from the Galesburg Fire Department. Galesburg firefighters responded to a structure fire in the 900 block of Hawkinson Avenue on Sunday, April 28 at 9:04 a.m. The response included all three stations and the 11 personnel on duty. When they arrived, firefighters found smoke and flames coming from a northwest window of a single-family residence. Battalion David Farrell established command and the Fremont Street crew took a preconnected fire hose and entered the back of the home, extinguishing the fire. The Central Station crew searched the residence for victims, fire extension and pets while the Brooks Street crew ventilated a north window and conducted a second search of the home. The homeowner’s dog escaped before the fire department arrived. The homeowner's cat was unharmed, but their bearded dragon died in the fire. There were no other injuries. The damages to the home are estimated to be $18,000. The cause of the fire was determined to be unintentional by Galesburg Fire Investigators. An emergency callback of off-duty fire personnel was initiated to provide emergency coverage for the city.
	Jaycees celebrates local community leaders The Jaycees of the Quad Cities honored community members and fellow Jaycees who are having positive impacts in the Quad Cities at their Community Awards Celebration on Thursday, April 25 at Jaycees Hall in Davenport. The Celebration showcases individual excellence in leadership as shown by outstanding initiative, impact of work and inspiring others. Because the group is a young professional organization, all recipients must be under 40 at the time of the celebration to be eligible. This year’s winners include: Young Community Leader Award: Mary Beth Angerer, owner of Angerer Eats. This award recognizes someone whose leadership has made a significant impact in the local community. Through her business, Angerer Eats, she addresses food insecurity among cancer patients by providing healthy, homecooked meals to Gilda's Club. Angerer began working with Gilda's Club in September 2023, first by providing group dinners before support sessions. She crowdfunded nearly $3,645 in November 2023 to buy a large freezer for Gilda's Club and vowed to fill it every week with meals for families affected by cancer. Click here (angereats.com) for more on the meal program. Young Educator Award: Paige Sheppard, language arts teacher at Bettendorf High School. This award recognizes someone whose leadership in the classroom and/or within the educational setting has made a significant impact in the community. Despite being a new teacher, Sheppard developed a multicultural literature course, from proposal to execution. She designed the curriculum using the Understanding by Design framework and over 50 students enrolled in the course. She focused on enhancing student engagement and implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) language in her classroom. Sheppard is working towards a master’s degree. Young Religious Leader Award: Zac Sandry, Youth Pastor at Heritage Church. This award recognizes someone whose religious leadership has made an impact on the local community. Sandry shows unwavering dedication to serving both his church community and the community’s youth population. He volunteers as a baseball coach and, along with his family, provides care and assistance to those in need. He has served with Heritage Church for over 10 years. Young City Servant Award: Cpl. Emily Rasche, Davenport Police Department. This award recognizes someone whose city leadership has made an impact on the community. Cpl. Rasche has had a distinguished career within the police force, starting as a detective in the Narcotics Unit before being promoted to her current position in the Patrol Division. She spent five years undercover while working as a detective and was instrumental in many large-scale narcotics and weapons arrests, as well as leading in arrests and seizures for several years. She also trained newer detectives and decided to pursue a promotion to patrol, where she now serves as a Field Training Officer and mentors new officers. Davenport Jaycees Foundation Scholarship Recipient – Claire Doran, a senior at Moline High School, who plans to pursue a degree in business and political science in the fall of 2024. This scholarship recognizes a student attending Assumption High School, Central High School, North High School, North Scott High School, West High School, Bettendorf High School, Pleasant Valley High School, Moline High School, Rock Island High School or Alleman High School who is entering their freshman year of college in the fall semester at an accredited post-secondary educational institution. Recipients must be active volunteers in the community and show a high level of academic achievement. Doran, a senior at Moline was awarded the $2,000 Community Service Scholarship. Doran was chosen by classmates to represent her school at Rotary meetings and has logged the most volunteer hours in a month for the Interact Club while maintaining high honor roll status throughout her high school career. The Jaycees also honored four of their own members who went above and beyond for the chapter and the community. This year’s honorees included: 2023 Jaycees Member of the Year – Drew Grace. This award recognizes a member who has been actively involved with the chapter, shows great leadership and is a role model to other members while growing chapter involvement. 2023 Jaycees Rookie of the Year – Shannon Lane and Ashley Gore This award recognizes a first-year member (or members) of the chapter who has shown great initiative and involvement in programs and events. 2023 Jaycees Project of the Year – Lisa Gerhardt, Taco ‘Bout A Non-Profit Fair This new award recognizes member(s) of the chapter who have demonstrated leadership and creativity by creating a new successful event for members. “It’s no secret that the Quad Cities is filled with so many wonderful people making positive changes every day,” said Kelsey Watson, Chairwoman of the Board, Jaycees of the Quad Cities. “We are so fortunate, as an organization, that we get to recognize and celebrate these individuals and the work they do for our community and their impact on making the QCA a great place to live!” Click here or email info@qcjaycees.org for more information on the Jaycees of the Quad Cities and their initiatives.
	REVIEW: QCSO and Ax bring A games to gala It’s been a long six years (seemingly a lifetime ago) since the last Quad City Symphony Orchestra gala concert, with superstar violinist Joshua Bell. I’ve had the privilege of attending the buzzy, extraordinary QCSO gala concerts of not only Bell in 2018, but cellist Yo-Yo Ma in 2015, and violinist Midori in 2011, and there was similar electricity in the air at Saturday night’s full audience in the Adler Theatre for the justifiably world-renowned (yet blissfully humble) pianist Emanuel Ax. 74-year-old pianist Emanuel Ax soloed with the Quad City Symphony Saturday night, April 27, 2024 at Davenport's Adler Theatre (photo by Evan Sammons/Quad City Symphony). It's been a much longer gap between QCSO performances for the 74-year-old Ax, who made his QC debut 43 years ago, and then did not play at the Adler, but Rock Island’s Centennial Hall and the old Davenport Masonic Temple. QCSO music director and conductor Mark Russell Smith (who didn’t make any remarks from the podium Saturday), wrote in the gala program that Ax “has graced the international music scene for many years with his extraordinary perspective and musicianship, winning accolades including the Arthur Rubenstein International Piano Competition and the Avery Fisher Prize. Ax has earned 19 Grammy nominations, and eight wins over a prolific career, and returned to the QC just six days after performing solo at Carnegie Hall (April 21), celebrating the 50th anniversary his debut at that prestigious venue. Mark Russell Smith conducting the QCSO with pianist Emanuel Ax (photo by Jonathan Turner). The stellar QCSO and the dazzling pianist certainly brought their A games to Saturday’s program, which featured two of the most popular piano concertos in the repertoire. After the Steinway grand piano was raised on a slowly moving platform below the stage, and put into place by a crew of four, the musicians launched into Ludwig van Beethoven’s grand and glorious Piano Concerto No. 5 (“Emporer”). Despite the fact Ax must have played this work many times over his long career, nothing about the QCSO performance seemed rote or routine, but thrillingly alive and present, on behalf of soloist and orchestra. The gala concert at Adler Theatre, April 27, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). Smith consistently supplied his characteristically clear, crisp conducting, and really got into the music, revealing both a very encouraging and passionate nature. It also was very evident that there was unusually close communication between Smith and Ax (contrasted with many concerto performances where the soloist seems separate in his or her own world), where they were laser focused on each other and had frequent eye contact. Smith and Ax were in close eye contact throughout the concert (photo by Jonathan Turner). Many times throughout the concert, the soloist and orchestra achieved a seamless blend and balance, and that sensitivity is a hallmark of both Ax and the QCSO. The pianist’s greatness lies partly in the fact that he can unfurl seemingly effortless trills and rapid-fire runs up and down the keyboard with such flawless grace and fluidity. His playing is silky smooth and brutally forceful in equal measure, and making it look easy is one of the hardest tricks a performer can accomplish. Photo by Evan Sammons/Quad City Symphony Especially in the Beethoven first movement, Ax displayed his signature virtuosity in an exacting technique and crystalline tone, building to the triumphant finish and audience applause. The gentle second movement of the Emporer includes a main melody that is a virtual echo of the opening of “West Side Story”’s “Somewhere” ballad written 146 years later (Leonard Bernstein must have known that). It’s simple, eloquent, and in the QCSO hands, the full-bodied warmth of the string section made it seem like the players never touched their bow to the strings, it magically emerged from the ether. Photo by Evan Sammons/Quad City Symphony Ax unveiled more glistening, luxurious trills and I love the modest ending of the movement, which steps down one tone to a new key and into the third movement. It was rhythmic, bouncy and galloping, with more extremely fast, jaw-dropping piano, and exuberant orchestra. It deservedly earned the first of Ax’s three standing ovations. After intermission, he returned to dazzle us more in Mozart’s dark and stormy Piano Concerto No. 20, K. 466. Like Ax, the QCSO delivered strong, rock solid, dependable playing. Soloist and orchestra were confident, commanding, and it was profoundly satisfying. Even in the elegant slow movement, Ax showed off tremendously demanding passages, without breaking a sweat, and he perfectly handled some parts where the left hand plays above the right, another challenge mastered deftly. Mark Russell Smith conducting the QCSO Saturday, April 27, 2024 (photo by Evan Sammons) The last movement highlighted boisterous, sprightly playing in piano and orchestra, running like clockwork, with a last vigorous cadenza. After a rousing ovation, Ax satisfied the audience desire for more in this rare, historic event by performing a solo encore. True to his unassuming, unpretentious nature, he gave a immaculate, tender, and lovely reading of a Schubert Serenade, as arranged by Liszt. The piano pieces were bookended brilliantly by two colorful orchestral works – Gustav Mahler’s “Blumine” (a QCSO premiere), and Igor Stravinsky’s famous Firebird Suite. Both were remarkable and featured astounding sections of barely perceptible strings. The Mahler highlighted a beautiful trumpet theme, with gentle, warm, comforting strings, building up to a bright vista like sun breaking through clouds, and a triumphant sound. Photo by Evan Sammons/Quad City Symphony Due to Smith’s expert precision, the QCSO showed impressive focus and cohesiveness in their performances throughout the program. “Firebird” was a perfect representation of their ability, a showy showcase for the orchestra – including mysterious, quiet, meditative sections, and chaotic wonder, with explosive flourishes from xylophone and bass drum, and an overpowering, enveloping, huge sound at the end, with an exhilarating, blazing climax. One of several standing ovations for Saturday's gala concert (photo by Evan Sammons). The gala was the very definition of breathtaking and it was an honor to attend.
	Scott County Health Dept. offers free online childbirth classes Expecting parents have a new option for taking childbirth classes in the Quad Cities. The Scott County Health Department Healthy Pregnancy program now offers free virtual childbirth classes every three months. The first session will be held on May 13th at 7 p.m. Scan the QR code in the graphic or click here to register. Registration requires providing your name, phone number and email address; staff will reach out to complete registration steps. Call (563) 328-4114 or email health@scottcountyiowa.gov with questions.
	QCAWC events in May help people meet, care for pets The Quad City Animal Welfare Center (QCAWC) has plenty of ways to meet a new furry friend and take care of them in May! The center is participating in the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s spring Empty the Shelters event May 1 – 15. New pet parents can adopt a spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped adult dog for $50 or an adult cat for $25! To help take care of area pets, QCAWC is holding its Mobile Vaccine Clinic at Zion Lutheran Church, 1216 W. Eighth Street in Davenport on Friday, May 3 from 2-4 p.m. Pets can receive low-cost vaccines and preventatives. Click here for more information. QCAWC is joining forces with The Atlas Collective for a morning of literacy and love at the Wags & Tales Reading Event on Saturday, May 11, starting at 9:30 am. Attendees should bring a donation from the QCAWC Wish List to support other shelter pets in need. Click here for all the details.
	Iowa Senators Winckler and Webster address failures of legislative session There were a lot of pieces of legislation that didn't make it to the governor this session. One is the Pesticide Protection Bill that we talked about on this program a few weeks ago. Another that would force public school students to sing part of the National Anthem every day didn't make it either. Host Jim Niedelman brings back State Senators Cindy Winckler and Scott Webster to consider legislation that Gov. Kim Reynolds strongly supports; That is the measure to give women access to birth control pills without a prescription. It never made it to the House floor despite having bipartisan support. ""I will continue to support this particular bill to (improve) access for birth control," Webster said. "I think it has overwhelming support in both the House and the Senate," Winckler said. Click on the video to hear more from our panelists. Question of the Week Now we’d like to hear from you, too, and that brings us to our question of the week: What are some of the measures Iowa state lawmakers adopted this session that you like or where do you think they fell short? 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.
	Iowa Senators Winckler and Webster on income-tax cut implications Host Jim Niedelman returns with Iowa State Senators Scott Webster and Cindy Winckler. It wouldn't be an Iowa legislative session with Republicans in charge without some kind of tax cuts. Republicans managed to speed up the income tax cut by a year. It will establish a 3.8 percent flat tax for everyone starting in the tax year 2025. Before this the state was on schedule to move to a 3.9 percent flat tax in 2026. Our panelists share what they think about the possibility this will eventually lead to Iowa eliminating the state income tax altogether like some other states already have. "I think that we need to responsibly budget and get our taxes as low as we possibly can," Webster said. "I think we need to push for tax cuts." "The flat tax rate is not a fair tax policy," Winckler said. "Middle-class and low-income individuals are disadvantaged by a flat-tax rate." To hear more of what our panelists have to say, 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.
	Iowa Senators Webster and Winckler review legislature's education moves Iowa state lawmakers wrapped up their legislative session last week after putting the finishing touches on an $8.9 billion budget About a billion dollars will go to education – that’s for public schools, higher education and other programs. It amounts to a 2 ½ percent increases for schools and colleges. Other legislation changes the way Area Education Agencies will be funded in the future for providing special education, criticized by opponents as cuts to the agencies. Lawmakers also approved another cut to income taxes. The state will move to a flat tax of 3.8 percent in 2025. That's a year earlier than scheduled for the flat tax and a 10th of a point less. Two Constitutional amendments related to taxes passed, one to add the flat tax to the state constitution and the other to require a super-majority vote from lawmakers to approve any income tax increases. There was never really any doubt that Republicans would adopt their priorities. Time will tell to see the impact they have in the short and long-term. Host Jim Niedelman gets into that with Iowa State Senators Cindy Winckler and Scott Webster. Webster said education continues to be a priority, and that includes teacher pay. "We've put $223.2 million to K-12 education this year," he said. "The one thing that we missed out on, we've cut several million dollars from our Area Education Agencies, which really provided supports for our schools and our students," Winckler said. Hear what else our panelists have to say when you 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.
	Rock Falls man arrested on weapons, other charges A Rock Falls man has been arrested in connection with unlawful possession of weapons, ammunition and cannabis after a traffic stop, according to a news release from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Kaden Ulve (Lee County Sheriff's Office) On April 26th at about 10:31 p.m., sheriff’s deputies stopped a vehicle on E. Seventh Street near S. Ottawa Avenue in Dixon for driving 48 miles per hour in a posted 30 miles per hour zone. Kaden J. Ulve, 18, from Rock Falls, was arrested and faces these charges as a result of the stop: Unlawful use or possession of weapons, a class 3 felony Aggravated unlawful use or possession of weapons, a class 4 felony Four counts of possession of a firearm without a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card, class A misdemeanors Possession of firearm ammunition without a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card, a class A misdemeanor Unlawful possession of cannabis (30 grams but less than 100 grams), a class A misdemeanor The Dixon Police Department assisted the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at the scene, the release said. Residents can call and report any illegal activity to the Lee County Sheriff’s Department at (815) 284-6631 or Crimestoppers at 1-888-CAUGHT-U. Callers can remain anonymous and receive rewards of up to $1,000 if their information leads to an arrest.
	Putnam Museum hosts ribbon cutting for new 'QC Innovators' exhibit Some of the featured innovators include John Deere, Otto Rohwedder and Gene Baker.
	USP Thomson on lock-down after contraband influx USP Thomson went on lock-down Friday because of an influx of contraband - including drugs and cell phones - made its way into the prison. Union representatives are calling for Congress to pass legislation to protect staff from contaminated contraband.
	Geneseo Art Walk shows off creativity From paintings to paper maché, the Geneseo Art Walk drew children and adults on Saturday to enjoy a colorful mix of creativity throughout the town. Artist David Smith, of Smith Studio and Art Gallery, says he considers the even a "city show and tell." (photo by Charlie Roiland) To see the artworks and hear what else people at the art walk have to say, click on the video.
Saturday, April 27th, 2024
	Rock Island Police Department moves forward with Group Violence Intervention Program Rock Island city leaders are working to help curb violent crimes in the city by implementing the Group Violence Intervention program, also known as GVI. It’s a partnership with Rock Island Police Department, Family Resources, and a national foundation.
	Galesburg Public Library returns with new location The Galesburg Public Library returned to the community.
	Tornado Watch until midnight Saturday night for Quad Cities A Tornado Watch means conditions are increasingly favorable for tornadoes to develop
	Moline Police Department holds third catch with a cop event The Moline Police Department hosted their third “Catch with a cop” event at Riverside Fields Park.
	Bettendorf varsity soccer defeats Dowling The number 9 ranked Bettendorf boys varsity soccer team on Saturday defeated number 1 ranked and previously undefeated Dowling Catholic, West Des Moines, according to a news release. After a physical and tough back-and-forth regulation ending in a 0-0 tie, Bettendorf outlasted Dowling in penalty kicks 3-2. (contributed photo) Coming down to the final kick and holding a tight 3-2 lead, Bettendorf sophomore goalie Payton Douglas made a diving save to record his third stop in the extra session, and pandemonium ensued as the Bettendorf boys stormed the field in celebration. It was a hotly contested game with several close chances on goal by both teams. Bettendorf senior forward Chase Wakefield looked sure to seal the win with a great run and shot from close range with just a few minutes left, but the Dowling goalie made a diving save to the post to deny the score. Dowling likewise had a chance with time running out but Douglas locked down a hard shot on target to seal the regulation tie and send it to penalties.
	Suspect in Davenport tavern burglary arrested for church theft A 24-year-old Davenport man arrested earlier this week in connection with a bar burglary was in custody Saturday after police allege he broke into and stole items from a Davenport church, court records show. Trenton Stewart, whose address is listed as both Davenport and Moline, 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. Trenton Stewart (Scott County Jail) On Friday, detectives were notified of Stewart being at Walmart, 5811 Elmore Ave, Davenport, trying to buy cell phones. Stewart “already had warrants out for his arrest for theft 3rd degree for (allegedly) stealing a laptop belonging to Double Tree, 111 E. 2nd St.,” say affidavits, which show officers took him into custody without incident. Incidents at a church In affidavits, police say that, during a search “incident to arrest” police found items belonging to Zion Lutheran Church, 1216 W. 8th St., including a business VISA card, a check, and keys belonging to the business. Shortly after 11:45 p.m. Thursday, officers responded to the church for a burglary alarm. They saw an open door and broken glass “valued at approximately $500” at the church on the northeast side, “but were unable to locate the suspect who had gained access to the church at that time.” Police allege Stewart took numerous items belonging to Zion Lutheran Church “and at times staged these stolen items behind a residence in the area.” After he was read his Miranda Rights, officers allege in affidavits, Stewart “admitted to doing this and also led (police) to the location where the stolen items were then recovered. Police found a computer monitor, surveillance DVR system, and other property belonging to Zion Lutheran Church valued at over $800, but under $1,500." Shortly after 5 a.m. Friday, Davenport Police officers responded back to Zion Lutheran Church for another burglary alarm. According to affidavits, “Upon officers’ arrival they located items being staged within Zion Lutheran Church in preparation of being stolen, but again were not able to locate the suspect.” After he was read his Miranda Rights, Stewart admitted to being inside Zion Lutheran Church again after the first time “with the intention of committing another theft upon the property," affidavits show. Stewart, who was being held Saturday on a total $12,000 bond in Scott County Jail, is set for a preliminary hearing May 7 in Scott County Court. Burglary at the Probstei Inn Court records say Davenport Police arrested Stewart early Tuesday in connection with a burglary at the Probstein Inn. Court records say police responded to a call about 10:30 a.m. Monday in reference to a commercial burglary. Arrest affidavits say Stewart “with no right, license, or privilege” forced entry into the Probstei Inn by pushing out an air-conditioning unit attached to the window of the business. In arrest affidavits, police allege that, once Stewart was inside the business, he stole various business checks belonging to the 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 the Probstei Inn. Court records say Stewart did this twice at different times, and was captured on surveillance footage. (Surveillance footage provided by Probstei Inn) In surveillance video tavern workers provided Our Quad Cities News, a suspect can be seen inside, pulling the safe out from under the bar. He then leaves with it, but because it’s too heavy, he doesn’t get very far with it. Police found it in a field.
	Orion's Logan Lee drafted by Pittsburgh Steelers While at Iowa, Lee had over 150 solo tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, and 9.5 career sacks.
	Agency on Aging seeks applicants for grant-funded services Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging (WIAAA) will release a competitive request for proposal on May 6 for Title III grant-funded services for transportation, nutrition services (congregate and home delivered meals), legal services, and caregiver services to be furnished in one or more of these counties: Bureau, Henderson, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, McDonough, Mercer, Putnam, Rock Island, and Warren, according to a news release. All successful applicants must be a legally incorporated 501c3 nonprofit or affiliated with an institution of higher education or be a government entity. Grants are procured for a three-year period. Successful grant applicants will receive the initial grant for federal fiscal year 2025 beginning Oct. 1, 2024 and ending Sept. 30, 2025. Completed applications must be submitted to WIAAA by no later than 5 p.m. on June 14. Interested persons should contact WIAAA at 309-793-6800 as soon as possible and state which services they seek funds for. In addition, all applicants will be encouraged to attend a bidder’s conference to be held at WIAAA on May 15 from 10 a.m. until noon. About Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging: The Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging (WIAAA) was founded in 1973 under an amendment to the Older Americans Act of 1965. The act is a federal law created to help older Americans live in their homes with safety and dignity as long as possible with appropriate services and support. There are approximately 629 area agencies across the nation, 13 in the State of Illinois.
	Music & Arts Academy, Rock Island, sets student recital The SBC Outreach Music & Arts Academy will host its annual spring recital “Unleash the Super Hero In You” on Sunday, May 5, at 3 p.m., according to a news release. The SBC Music & Arts Academy is at Second Baptist Church in Rock Island. The event will be held at the Second Baptist Church Family Life Center, 919 6th Ave., Rock Island,. The public is invited to come out to support students as they showcase their talents in music, voice, and dance. Refreshments will be served and there will be special entertainment. This event is free. Donations will be appreciated. For more information, contact the Rev. Carmen Ausborn, executive director at 309-738-6070 or Regina Spann, 563-459-9653, or email sbcmusicacademy@gmail.com
	New McDonald's construction in Moline underway Ground broke earlier this month on the new location, near the Kohl's at 43rd Avenue and Seventh Street.
	United Way Quad Cities sees increase in Day of Caring volunteer numbers More than 1,600 volunteers came out for Thursday's Day of Caring, the highest turnout in five years.
	Rock Island Rotary Club awards students, community members The Rock Island Rotary Club honored several local students and community members with awards, scholarships this month.
	Riley Gaines urges Iowa to define a woman during event in Davenport Gaines, along with more than a dozen other athletes, sued the NCAA, claiming the organization violated her rights under Title IX by allowing Lia Thomas to compete.
	Taco & Margarita Fest returns to East Moline East Moline Main Street’s second annual Cinco de Mayo Taco & Margarita Festival will be noon-8 p.m. Saturday, May 4, on 15th Avenue in East Moline, a news release says. More than 100 local vendors will be featured, along with music, margaritas tacos, and dancing. A kids' zone will be noon until 5 p.m. inside Runners' Park. Parking will be available at John Deere Harvester Works and East Moline Glass with a bus making the loop to downtown. Schedule: Noon: Opening ceremony 12:30 p.m. Los de La Vieja Estasion 3 p.m. Glenview Mariachi 3:30 p.m. Grupo Alegria Ballet Folklorico from Sterling 4 p.m. Overstreet’s Top Notch Boxing Club 4:15 p.m. DJ EDUU Ortiz 5 p.m. Quebradita Dance Competition 5:30 p.m. Banda Adaptivo - 16 from Chicago For more information, email eastmolinecinco@yahoo.com
	Illinois Quad-Cities legislators talk budget pressures at chamber forum Legislators are looking at an education funding model for higher education.
	Davenport Interim City Attorney Brian Heyer to retire May 1, city working on transition plan Davenport's interim city attorney plans to retire next week, according to a letter he sent to the city council April 2.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, April 27, 2024 Richard L. Bivens, 86, of East Moline, Illinois, died Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at New Perspective Senior Living, Silvis, Illinois. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, April 27, 2024 Richard L. Bivens, 86, of East Moline, Illinois, died Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at New Perspective Senior Living, Silvis, Illinois. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.
	Orion mulls raising water, sewer rates Trustees are discussing increases in the water and sewer rates but will wait until they see final numbers for the fiscal year to decide.
Friday, April 26th, 2024
	Regents question whether DEI changes will comply with new legislation There’s disagreement among the Board of Regents about whether changes to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs at Iowa universities will comply with a bill on Governor Kim Reynolds’ desk.
	Here's where you can drop off medication on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day The nationwide initiative brought in nearly 600,000 pounds of medication in 2023.
	Bureau, Henry counties receiving state funding for fire departments Illinois announced $4 million in funding for departments across the state.
	Sterling Police Department introduces new comfort dog The Sterling Police Department welcomed their second comfort dog this week as one is getting ready for retirement. Millie is an eight-week-old golden retriever and the second comfort dog at the Sterling Police Department.
	Rock Island Police Department says farewell to Chief Landi on final day Rock Island Police Department announces Chief Landi’s retirement.
	Kewanee man faces felony grooming charge A jury trial tentatively has been set in the case of a 34-year-old Kewanee man accused of felony grooming, according to court records. Tyler Snider has pleaded not guilty, according to Henry County Court records. Court records show that between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31, 2023, Snider "did knowingly use ... (SnapChat) to solicit a child to commit the offense of distribution and/or production of child pornography, in that (Snider) requested nude pictures from a person under the age of 18." Snider has waived a preliminary hearing, according to court records. A jury trial is tentatively set for the week of June 3.
	Rock Island police chief retires Friday was the end of an era for the Rock Island Police Department. Police Chief Richard Landi retired after more than 30 years with the department. Rock Island Police Chief Richard Landi (photo by Bryan Bobb) He was given a send-off party Friday afternoon at the police station. Landi was appointed chief in April 2022. He began his career in 1993 as a patrol officer, and rose through the ranks - serving as sergeant from 2003 to 2010 and as lieutenant until 2020, when he was appointed as deputy chief of police.
	Vote ahead of Annual Public Works Day in Bettendorf’s Recycling Truck naming contest Bettendorf is encouraging the community to cast their vote for their favorite recycling truck name.
	Bettendorf names recycling truck after boy known for loving garbage trucks who died from cancer Davenport native Reid Gleeson was known for his love of garbage trucks.
	Catch with a Cop set for Riverside Park, Moline "Catch with a Cop" will be 2-4 p.m. Saturday at Riverside Park, Moline. The event kicks off the Moline Little League season. Officers will toss around a ball with kids at the event, where the Quad Cities River Bandits have donated 100 baseballs. One lucky player will go home with a loaded equipment bag courtesy of Breedlove's Sporting Goods. Kona Ice of Davenport also will be there to serve up some sweet drinks to keep the energy going.
	Davenport Speedway cancels races The races at the Davenport Speedway at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds have been canceled for Friday night. Racing will return next Friday - weather permitting.
	Captain Matthew Cain named Galesburg Fire Department Firefighter of the Year Captain Matthew Cain was named as the 2023 Galesburg Fire Department Firefighter of the year.
	Iowa’s Cooper DeJean drafted in the second round Iowa DB Cooper DeJean was drafted in the first round of the NFL draft. DeJean is the 14th Iowa Hawkeye to be drafted in the first round during the Kirk Ferentz era.
	Hello Burlington, part 2 Hello Burlington is an on-site special broadcast that celebrates and shares the stories that made Burlington the community it is now within the region.
	IowaWORKS program helping those who have previously been incarcerated find jobs Organizers say finding employment can be incredibly difficult for those coming out of incarceration. This program seeks to give them a helping hand in the process.
	QCA United Steelworkers members host ceremony for Workers Memorial Day The ceremony honored those who have passed away from job-related accidents or illnesses.
	Strong to severe thunderstorms forecasted to move through Iowa, Illinois over the weekend The risk for severe weather remains relatively low for Friday night before climbing up to a 2 out of 5 risk on Saturday and Sunday.
	Former Illinois football star Johnny Newton drafted in second round Former Illinois football star Johnny Newton was drafted in the first round of the NFL draft. Newton gives Illinois back to back years with a first round draft pick after Devon Witherspoon was drafted by Seattle with the 5th overall pick last year.
	QCA leaders speak on new Biden rule requiring overtime pay for millions of salaried workers Starting July 1, employers will be required to pay overtime to salaried workers who make less than $43,888 a year in certain roles.
	Blue Grass man arrested on child porn charges A tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has led to the arrest of a Blue Grass man on child porn charges.
	Free, indoor autism acceptance walk happening in Rock Island The event will run from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 27. April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC says 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
	East Moline police continue search for missing 92-year-old man, seeks public's help in search East Moline Police are continuing their search for a 92-year-old man who has been missing since March 30.
	Davenport Express store among 95 set to close The Express Factory Outlet store at NorthPark Mall is among 95 locations set to close as a result of the company's recent bankruptcy filing, according to court documents.
	Hello Burlington, part 1 Hello Burlington, KWQC TV6′s on-site broadcast is underway.
	Marching Illini Band joining the Rock Island Labor Day parade The University of Illinois Marching Illini band will be participating in this year’s 40th annual Rock Island Labor Day Parade on Sept 2.
	University of Illinois marching band to perform in Rock Island Labor Day Parade The City of Rock Island announced that the University of Illinois Marching Illini band will perform in this year's 40th annual Rock Island Labor Day Parade.
	Learn about QC innovators and inventors in new exhibit You may have known that chiropractic care, sliced bread and Dairy Queen were all invented in the Quad Cities, but did you know that Deere & Company was very briefly in the automobile business? The new Quad City Innovators exhibit is on the second floor, near Common Ground, at the Putnam Museum & Science Center, 1717 W. 12th St., Davenport (photos by Jonathan Turner). That’s one fab tidbit in a fascinating new permanent exhibit, Quad City Innovators, which highlights inventors, innovators, and trailblazers that hail from the QC, now open at the Putnam Museum and Science Center (1717 W. 12th St., Davenport), on the second floor. “We’re so excited to welcome visitors to this new space,” Kelly Lao, vice president of museum experience and education at the Putnam, said Friday afternoon before a Quad Cities Chamber ribbon-cutting for the new 1,000-square-foot-plus exhibit. “The Quad Cities is so interesting. How many places have you been and you go, ‘Did you know that chiropractic was invented in the Quad Cities? Did you know sliced bread was invented in the Quad Cities?’” she said. “People like don’t believe you.” Kelly Lao, vice president of museum experience and education, talks about the new permanent exhibit before the ribbon-cutting Friday, April 26, 2024. The Putnam was able to track down stories people have heard about influential inventions, and find artifacts that represent these inventions and innovations, she said. “This has been part of our ‘Putnam Reimagined’ campaign,” Lao said. “Not only have we brought forth this gallery that talks about the innovators, the inventions and the trailblazers – people who led the way in the Quad Cities, but we’ve also been doing a lot of great things with the World Culture Gallery we opened a couple years ago and last year’s ‘Common Ground: Our Voice, Our Stories,” the telling of our regional history.” “We’ve been doing a lot here at the Putnam and there’s more to come,” she said, noting a brand new gateway and welcome center that will transform the current entrance this fall. A new vault will also display many more pieces from the 250,000+ object collection that have been stored away, Lao said. The new QC exhibit features an early ironing board, washing machine and combination harp/guitar. She thanked the funders for the renovation work, which connects to the Fab Lab and Common Ground, tore down walls, and renovated the old Palmer lecture hall and non-public space that is now considerably brighter and more open. The exhibit financial supporters included Arconic Foundation, Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust, Scott County Regional Authority, Adler-Schermer Foundation, Bechtel Trust and the Goldstein family. A display honoring Bernie Goldstein of Alter Company, who lobbied for riverboat gambling in Iowa in 1989, and a model of his Diamond Lady, the nation's first gaming riverboat. It set sail on April 1, 1991 in Bettendorf. “Quad City Innovators shares the incredible stories of Quad City innovators, inventors, and trailblazers through artifacts, stories, hands-on interactives, and fun learning experiences in our updated Fab Lab, re-opening in late April for drop-in maker and educational experiences,” Lao said, noting the lab was geared just for students in the past, and is now open to the general public. The goal of the new exhibit is to spark hometown pride and inspire future change-makers right here in our community. “This exhibit is a great way to celebrate the innovation that comes from our community and inspire visitors to trailblaze in their own ways,” Lao said. “Many of you have watched the Putnam change, evolve, grow to the amazing place that it is now,” Davenport Mayor Mike Matson said Friday. “The Putnam is a shining beacon. It’s a great example of something wonderful in the Quad Cities, and the growth and change in the cultural exhibits, the innovative exhibits you’re going to see here, it’s just amazing, and the challenge we have is to get the word out and make sure everybody knows.” An interactive display (you can press buttons answering questions and the corresponding image lights up) features (from left) Nelly Cheboi, Gary Payton, Chad Pregracke, Mary Solbrig, and Bob Ontiveros, among others. “The Putnam’s Innovators exhibit offers visitors an opportunity to see how many creative people we have in the Quad Cities and the world,” said Christina Kastell, curator of history and anthropology. “Every child will be able to see someone who looks like them and find inspiration to become innovators themselves.” Some of the people and inventions featured in the Innovators exhibit include: A bread slicing machine invented by Otto Rohwedder in 1928 in Davenport. Otto Rohwedder (bread slicer) J.F. McCullough, Cecil Medd & Henry C. Duke (Dairy Queen and soft serve ice cream) The Palmer family (chiropractic) Voss Brothers (washing machine) John Deere (farm equipment pioneer) Alexander Victor (movie camera and projector) Joe Whitty (Happy Joe’s Pizza) Fred Lundahl (Buddy L toys) Fred Boetje (Boetje’s Mustard) Nelly Cheboi (CNN Hero of the Year 2022) Dr. William West Grant (first successful appendectomy) Gene Baker (first African-American on the Cubs roster) Mary Solbrig (early airplane mechanician) Chad Pregracke (environmentalist and 2002 Jefferson Award recipient) Gary Payton (astronaut) The existing 1927 Velie Model 50 standard sedan, made by the Velie Motor Company of Moline, got an upgrade in its presentation and highlights the Deere connection to the auto industry. Willard Velie (a grandson of John Deere) produced 75,000 automobiles between 1908 and 1929, among 300,000 motor vehicles – including tractors, trucks, and the Velie Monocoupe airplane. The 1927 Velie sedan on display was among 75,000 automobiles made by the Moline-based Velie Motor Company from 1908 to 1929. There’s a panel in the exhibit on several QC automobile companies, including the Deere-Clark Motor Company of Moline (1906-07), a partnership of William Clark and John Deere’s son Charles (president of Deere), which manufactured 50 early automobiles. One glaring omission from the new exhibit with a QC connection is John Vincent Atanasoff (1903-1995), who was credited with inventing the first digital electronic computer in 1937. In the winter of 1937, Atanasoff — then an assistant professor in mathematics and physics at Iowa State College in Ames — traveled to Rock Island, where he conceptualized the first computer, reportedly sketching it on a napkin at the former Hunter's Club downtown on 4th Avenue. Lao of the Putnam said Friday they've had a hard time getting an actual artifact related to the early computer, and the invention may be added to an exhibit touch-screen display. A display highlighting Madam C.J. "Sarah" Walker, Leonardo Da Vinci and Cesar Chavez. The exhibit has prominent walls featuring internationally recognized inventors, innovators and trailblazers – including Leonardo Da Vinci, Madam C.J. "Sarah" Walker, Cesar Chavez, Steve Jobs, George Washington Carver, and Malala Yousafzai. An innovator, inventor and trailblazer wall with Steve Jobs (left), George Washington Carver and Malala Yousafzai. Quad City Innovators caps off a remodeling and construction project that expanded the footprint of the museum. This latest remodel adds space to the museum that was mostly closed to the public, adding about 1,000 square feet to public exhibit space, including easier access to the Putnam’s Giant Screen Theater lobby. New CEO expected July 1 The Putnam is also changing its top leader, as it has chosen three finalists in the nationwide search to replace retiring CEO Rachael Mullins. Mullins announced last October that she planned to move to the Atlanta area to be closer to family and help with her mother’s care. She has been CEO of the Putnam since June 2019, after working nearly 18 years for the Davenport Community School District. Putnam president/CEO Rachael Mullins at the opening of the new "Common Ground" exhibit on April 14, 2023 (photo by Jonathan Turner). Mullins’ mother Pat died on April 7 at age 91. Pat Mullins had moved to Davenport in the 1970s where she served in the Mississippi Bend AEA, pioneering physical therapy in the Davenport schools, according to her obituary. The three finalists (none are local) selected by the Putnam executive search committee (comprised by board members and community members) will be interviewed in person next week, said Scott Peake, museum marketing director. A new CEO is expected to be named by late May, to start with the beginning of the fiscal year July 1, 2024. The Putnam exhibit includes a big ad for Dairy Queen, which first opened in 1938 in East Moline. QC Innovators is included in the price of the Putnam’s general admission—$12 for adults, $10 for youth (ages 3–18), college students, and $8 for seniors and military. Through the Putnam’s Museums for All program, admission is $1 per person for households with the presentation of an EBT card. Admission is free for members. For more information, visit the Putnam website HERE.
	Inside Iowa Politics: More room for tax cuts but not too fast, taxpayer group leader says Inside Iowa Politics looks at why Iowans for Tax Relief President Chris Hagenow believes that the legislature should be able to cut taxes again -- even after passing another round of tax cuts this year -- but he thinks that they need to be thoughtful about not doing too much too fast.
	Cybertip leads to arrest of Blue Grass man for child pornography A 57-year-old rural Blue Grass man faces felony charges after the Scott County Sheriff's Office received a Cybertip, a news release says. On Jan. 8, 2024, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office received a Cybertip from the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and started an investigation, according to a news release. Christian Allen (Scott County Jail) During the investigation, Christian B. Allen "was developed as the suspect in this case," the release says. "Through the criminal investigation, evidence was obtained for criminal charges against Allen that he possessed child pornography." On Friday, Allen was arrested and booked into the Scott County Jail. He was charged with five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, a Class D felony. According to court records, Allen was released on his own recognizance.
	WATCH NOW: Hello Burlington Hello Burlington, KWQC TV6′s on-site broadcast is underway.
	Blue Grass man facing child pornography charges Deputies launched an investigation earlier this year.
	M.A.D Therapy, Coffee Apothecary hosting mental health awareness event Enjoy an evening of poetry, a mental health panel & terrariums at 'Mental Health M.A.D.ness' on May 3. A portion of proceeds will go to The Gray Matters Collective.
	Vote in Bettendorf's recycling truck naming contest The City of Bettendorf is asking the community to help name two recycling trucks.
	QC Chamber hosts forum with Illinois lawmakers QCA state legislators spoke at the event and took questions from attendees. It comes as the legislative session is set to wrap up on May 24.
	Rock Island police chief finishes last day on the job Rock Island Police Chief Richard Landi started at the department in 1993 and climbed through the ranks before becoming police chief in April 2022.
	Gilda's Club's Camp Genesis gives summer fun Summer camp can make lifetime memories for a child, and Gilda's Club wants to make sure kids impacted by cancer can have the freedom to experience camp like everyone else. Nora Boslett from Gilda’s Club Quad Cities and some very special friends dropped by Our Quad Cities News to talk about Camp Genesis. For more information, click here.
	Community, poetry & nature: M.A.D Therapy, Coffee Apothecary hosting mental health awareness event Enjoy an evening of poetry, a mental health panel & terrariums at 'Mental Health M.A.D.ness' on May 3. A portion of proceeds will go to The Gray Matters Collective.
	Free, indoor autism acceptance walk happening in Rock Island The event will run from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 27. April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC says 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
	Search continues for missing East Moline man He was last seen at his apartment by family in the early evening of March 29, police said.
	Fareway finalizing plans for a new store in Coal Valley An Iowa grocer plans to open a new location in Coal Valley, bringing an end to years of campaigning to lure a grocery store back to the village.
	East Moline man still missing As of Friday, William Weber, a 92-year old East Moline man, is still missing.
	Local community college students tell their stories in "The College Tour" The latest season of the Amazon Prime series, "The College Tour," will shine a spotlight on some local community college students.
	Quad Cities man sentenced to federal prison in gun case He pleaded guilty in November, court records show.
	Fareway finalizing plans for new store in Coal Valley The company said the new store will provide a full-service butcher counter, farm-fresh produce, and “to-your-car carryout.”
	Fareway to build a new Coal Valley store Fareway Stores, Inc. on Friday announced plans to build an approximately 17,000-square-foot store at the southeast corner of 1st Street and Route 6 in Coal Valley. This store is tentatively planned to open in 2026. A rendering for the new Fareway at 1st Street and U.S. 6 in Coal Valley. “Communities depend on a local grocer to offer high quality products and unmatched service. We look forward to offering these qualities to Coal Valley and area residents with a new Fareway store,” Fareway CEO Reynolds W. Cramer said in a company release. “We want to thank city officials and economic development for helping make this project possible.” The new store will provide only the best in fresh, highest quality meat; a full-service butcher counter; farm-fresh produce; low, competitive prices; and the highest level of customer service, including to-your-car carryout, the company said. The new store will offer FastLanes, a self-service checkout option, and online shopping and curbside pick-up. “We're thrilled to announce the arrival of Fareway to the Village of Coal Valley, marking a significant milestone in our community's journey,” Mayor Mike Bartels said in Friday’s release. “After six years of collaboration, we're delighted to welcome back a local grocery store, with Fareway as our ideal partner,” he said. “Fareway's commitment and investment in Coal Valley are deeply appreciated, and we're confident this partnership will greatly benefit our residents. “Beyond fulfilling our need for a grocery store, Fareway's presence has the potential to stimulate economic growth by generating jobs, supporting local businesses, and fostering further development in the area.” Bartels said. “Being able to bring a grocery store such as Fareway to our community will be such a wonderful asset for our residents,” said Village Administrator Penny Mullen. The new Fareway store at 1301 Eagle Ridge Road, LeClaire. Fareway is a growing Midwest grocery company currently operating more than 130 grocery store locations in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Its QC area stores are in Moline, Bettendorf, LeClaire, Davenport, Geneseo, Clinton and Muscatine. For more information, visit its website HERE.
	Davenport to host Big 9 Summer Concert Series The Big 9 Summer Concert series is coming to Davenport this summer.
	Moline man reaches plea deal in 2020 neglect death of stepson Justin Keim and the Rock Island County State's Attorney reached plea agreement in the 2020 death of J.J. Hammond.
	Galesburg firefighter of the year chosen The Galesburg Fire Department (GFD) has chosen Captain Matthew Cain as the 2023 Firefighter of the Year. The annual GFD Firefighter of the Year award recognizes significant contributions, achievements, character, and dedication of a firefighter or fire captain, according to a city release Friday. Selection is based on criteria including skills and ability as a firefighter, performance of duties, motivation, teamwork, leadership, and professionalism. Captain Matthew Cain, right, is congratulated by Galesburg Fire Chief Randy Novind. Candidates are nominated by the fire department staff, and the final selection is made by a consensus of the management staff, union president, and staff captain. Captain Cain was appointed to the Galesburg Fire Department on Feb. 16, 2003, and subsequently promoted to the rank of captain on June 29, 2015. He manages the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) inventory and has performed a tremendous job keeping up with industry changes and ensuring firefighters are properly protected, the release said. Cain is the lead for GFD’s Juvenile Fire Setter Program and handles the compressor and fill stations as well. He is instrumental in doing much of the behind-the-scenes work in procuring grant funds to keep SCBAs current. Cain took a special interest in GFD’s recruiting efforts. For the past couple of years, he has become heavily involved, often identifying events to attend, coordinating with other firefighters to attend the events, and arranging travel plans for career recruitment events in Champaign and Macomb. In addition, Cain has been instrumental in training new firefighters after they return from the Illinois Fire Academy, providing positive leadership and years of experience. A ceremony was held on Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Galesburg Fire Department to honor Captain Cain as Firefighter of the Year and recognize his achievements and dedication to the Galesburg Fire Department.
	Fareway grocery store coming to Coal Valley The 17,000-square-foot store is tentatively planned to open in 2026.
	Bettendorf needs your help naming recycling trucks The City of Bettendorf wants your help to name some recycling trucks! The City received 4,446 submissions to its Recycling Truck Naming Contest, and 94% were in honor and memory of a young boy named Reid who loved garbage and recycling trucks but passed away from cancer in 2020. Due to the outpouring of love and support for Reid, Bettendorf will name one of its three recycling trucks after Reid, but the other two trucks still need names. The City has created a poll with the 10 most popular submissions: The Green Reaper Truck Norris CHEWbacca Recyclosaurus Rex Bin Diesel Recycling McQueen The Incredible Bulk Scrappy Repete Sir Eats-a-Lot The poll will be open through May 11, and the winning names will be revealed during Public Works Day on Saturday, May 18. To vote on your favorite name, click here.
	Moments in History: Historic people playing a role in Burlington history The ‘Moments in History’ of Burlington, Iowa, celebrate the community and what has brought it to what is there today.
	$4M awarded to EMS and fire across Illinois The Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) awarded a total of $4 million to 165 fire departments and districts and EMS providers across the state. The program provides grants of up to $26,000 each for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment. The OSFM received 417 applications, requesting around $9.5 million in funding for this period. According to a release, the following departments around the QCA received grants: Bureau County: Bureau Fire Protection District: $20,277 Cherry Fire Protection District: $26,000 Henry County: Atkinson Fire Protection District: $23,245 Anawan Alba Fire Protection District: $23,455 Galva Fire Department: $22,217.99 Kewanee Community Fire Protection District: $26,000 Jo Daviess County: City of East Dubuque Fire Department: $22,556 Menominee-Dunleith Fire Department: $25,455.06 Knox County: Elba Salem Fire Protection District: $26,000 Maquon Fire Protection District: $25,987.83 Oneida-Wataga Fire Protection District: $25,972 Williamsfield Fire Protection District: $26,000 Knox/Warren County: Abingdon Fire Protection District: $26,000 Rock Island County: Coyne Center Fire Protection District: $25,429.15 Warren County: Central Warren Fire Protection District: $24,686 “We continue to see and hear about the need and understand the issues fire departments face when it comes to funding across the state," Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera said. "I am proud this year we were able to increase our grant funding to $4 million, a $2.5 million increase from last year, which has allowed us to award over 100 more departments money to purchase lifesaving tools they might not have been able to afford otherwise." Most fire departments, fire protections districts, township fire departments and nonprofit ambulance service providers in Illinois were eligible to apply. All fire departments, fire protections districts and township fire department applicants were required to have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) for a minimum of two years prior to applying. For more information, click here.
	QC piano festival expands to two days If you like piano music, you can double your pleasure tonight in Bettendorf. A husband-and-wife team -- 88 Squared, the duo of married pianists Jeffrey and Karen Savage -- will give a concert on the unique 1904 Pleyel double grand piano, at Asbury United Methodist Church, 1809 Mississippi Boulevard, Bettendorf, at 7 p.m. tonight. "For the past three years, we've had the Quad City Piano Ensemble Festival and it's been growing so much, we decided to make it a two-day festival," event organizer (and pianist) Marian Lee said Friday. 88 Squared -- Jeff and Karen Savage -- will perform tonight at 7 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 1809 Mississippi Boulevard, Bettendorf. The Savages are on the piano faculty of University of Missouri-Kansas City and they’ll be playing a program of French and American works, but not your usual Faure and Debussy, Lee said. "The program is a lot more innovative with audience-friendly new works." 88 Squared has received critical praise from Singapore's The Straits Times, American Record Guide, and Fanfare magazine. Praised as "gifted pianists" by David DeBoor Canfield of Fanfare Magazine and "a composer's dream" by Lowell Lieberman, their performances have been called "fearless" (The Straits-Times) and "joyful and inspiring" (American Record Guide). The duo's performances have been broadcast on internationally syndicated programs, on National Public Radio stations across the U.S., and on Vietnamese Public Television. Karen and Jeff Savage earned their master's and doctoral degrees from Juilliard and teach piano at University of Missouri-Kansas City. "They're presenting a really unique French-American program, because the Pleyel is a French instrument," Lee said. "The Savages have a unique tie with this instrument, because back when the Pleyel double grand was in bad shape and we needed to raise money to get it rebuilt, the Savages, who had heard about the instrument, they volunteered to play a concert and raise money for it." Event organizer Marian Lee is head of the keyboard area at St. Ambrose University and associate professor of piano. By 1890, wealthy music lovers yearned to own two grand pianos for their salons, but most lacked the necessary floor space. Two grands were needed to perform both orchestral reductions of symphonies and piano concertos, according to a history of the Pleyel. Inventing the double grand To satisfy that demand, Pleyel and Company of Paris invented the double grand piano. The instrument combined two grand pianos into one - with two facing keyboards, and a new frame on which two sets of identical strings were mounted head-to-tail with their own bridges, but with a shared soundboard. Pleyel's instrument, patented as the "Duo-Clave," began manufacture in 1897 and continued until 1946. It is believed that 74 Pleyel double grands were manufactured during this period. The Pleyel double grand piano in Bettendorf was built in 1904 in Paris. The Pleyel double grand owned by the local Federated Music Teachers Association (FMTA) came to the Quad Cities by way of its last, previous owner, Joe and Thea Leclair. They acquired the piano while Joe was commissioned by the U.S. military in Paris. Upon her passing, Thea, a lifelong member of IFMC (Iowa Federation of Music Clubs), wished that the piano would stay in the QC and be played. In 2010, FMTA voted to begin fundraising to restore Thea's piano. In the 2017, FMTA acquired full ownership of the piano. On Nov. 21, 2017, the piano was moved to Premier Piano Service of Walker, Iowa, for complete restoration. On Oct. 26, 2018, the fully restored piano returned to the QC and is housed at Asbury United Methodist in Bettendorf, where Thea was a member for 50 years. Research indicated this is the only Pleyel double grand piano in the Western Hemisphere (other than France) on which performances are possible, allowed and welcomed. It is one of just seven Pleyel double grand pianos known to remain in the world. It has two separate, facing keyboards with two complete and separate sets of strings, on one shared soundboard. The resonance created by this design is akin to the extra harmonics created by a 12-string guitar - with over 460 strings. Marilyn Mitchem, left, and Laura Crumbleholme at each end of the Pleyel double grant. "We're really excited to welcome them back into town and hope that they're pleased with the rebuild of the instrument," Lee said of 88 Squared. Tonight's program The program for the QC Piano Ensemble Festival includes performances of the following: Toccata from the Fifth Symphony for Organ - Charles-Marie Widor Lullaby in D-flat Major, Op. 76, No. 2 - Lowell Liebermann Variations on a Theme of Beethoven - Camille Saint-Saëns Souvenirs, Op. 28 - Samuel Barber (Two-Step, Hesitation Tango, Galop) Sonata No. 3 “Ballade” - Eugène Ysaÿe/Sean Chen (world premiere) An American in Paris - George Gershwin (a test performance in collaboration with the George and Ira Gershwin Critical Edition) The festival aims to encourage students of all levels of FMTA teachers to play duets, duos, trios, quartets, and concertos and to expose students and their families to the rare and historic Pleyel double grand piano. On Saturday, the Savages are giving a master class at 10 a.m., which is free and open to the public. Then at 3 p.m., there will be a student ensemble concert at Asbury, with 23 student ensembles performing, and that is also free. Tickets for tonight's concert are $15 for adults and $5 for students, available online HERE, or at the door.
	Family spokesman: Second autopsy of David Schultz planned, 'Don't feel comfortable with results' A spokesman for David Schultz's family told The Journal Friday they plan to have a private forensic pathology firm conduct a second autopsy on the Wall Lake, Iowa, trucker's body. "I don't feel comfortable with the results of the initial…
	Take the Abermination mountain bike challenge! Take a ride along a five-mile loop of pristine, wooded single track on the Mississippi River bluffs! Friends of Off-Road Cycling (FORC) invites you to take the challenge of the Illiniwek Abermination Mountain Bike Race. Race through Illiniwek Forest Preserve on trails packed with flowing corners, large wooden berms and ripping descents that will challenge riders of all ages and stages. Illiniwek Abermination Mountain Bike Race (Friends of Off-Road Cycling) The Illiniwek Abermination Mountain Bike Race is Saturday, May 4 at the Illiniwek Forest Preserve, located at 836 State Ave., Hampton. For more information, or to register, click here. FORC's goal is to expand mountain biking opportunities in the QCA through education, advocacy, stewardship and community building. For more, click here.
	New Fareway coming to Coal Valley The new grocery store will be at the corner of 1st Street and Route 6. Construction is expected to finish in 2026.
	2 Burlington women sentenced to prison for sex trafficking charges The two women were sentenced to decades in federal prison for sex trafficking charges.
	Davenport man sentenced on firearm charge A Davenport man was sentenced April 23, 2024, to seven years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. According to public court documents, Marveon Dashawn Jovan Williams, 27, was arrested in 2022, after Davenport Police responded to a call in May for a gunshot victim in a vehicle. Upon arrival on the scene, the victim was located in the driver seat of a vehicle, with a gunshot wound to the head. Marveon Williams (photo from Scott County Jail listing.) Several firearms, including one located on the passenger side, and one located on the sidewalk outside the passenger side of the vehicle were recovered. A cell phone belonging to Williams was also located on the scene. Witnesses described a shootout between two different vehicles. A male, matching Williams’ physical description was seen possessing the firearm that was dropped on the sidewalk and recovered by police and fleeing the crime scene, according to a Justice Department release Friday. Video surveillance footage of the scene showed Williams fleeing the area and then changing his clothing in a nearby wooded area. The discarded clothing was recovered by law enforcement and tested for DNA. DNA belonging to Williams was located on the clothing recovered from the wooded area. After completing his term of imprisonment, Williams will be required to serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by Davenport Police Department. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
	Women's sports activist Riley Gaines speaks at QC conference Former collegiate swimmer and women's sports activist Riley Gaines was a guest speaker for the Iowa Federation of Republican Women spring conference in Davenport. Gaines spoke against transgender women competing in women's sports, saying it's unfair. Gaines was among more than a dozen college athletes who filed a lawsuit against the NCAA last month. They accused the organization of violating their Title IX rights by allowing a transgender woman to compete at the national championships in 2022. The recent changes to Title IX passed by the Biden administration say that no person should experience sex discrimination.
	New Davenport riverfront concert series to kick off Memorial Day weekend A new riverfront concert series will bring musicians to Davenport's nine miles of riverfront throughout the summer.
	Illinois could increase funding to fight homelessness A new report finds the racial disparity in homelessness in Illinois is among the worst in the country. According to researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago, Black residents in Illinois are almost eight times more likely to experience homelessness than white residents. The gap is double the national rate. Gov. JB Pritzker says his administration is proposing an increase in revenue to fight homelessness. Pritzker says his fiscal year 2025 proposal includes $35 million in court-based rental assistance and legal help for people facing eviction court. For more information, click here.
	Rock Island-Milan staff, community speak against, and for, deputy superintendent position The hiring a deputy superintendent at Rock Island-Milan schools was major topic during Tuesday's public comment.
	Foodie Friday: Taco and Margarita Festival Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner, and the second annual Taco and Margarita Festival is back to celebrate it. Patricia Hansen and Gracie Macias of East Moline Main Street joined Our Quad Cities News This Morning to share more about the event. Watch the video above and click here to learn more.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities headlines for Apr. 26, 2023 Man accused of murder in a park has pleaded not guilty, law enforcement will participate in prescription drug take back, and Illinois State Police warns about scam.
	Park View man pleads not guilty in murder of Taylor Escontrias A judge ruled Thursday a Park View man must answer charges that he killed Taylor Escontrias.
	Illinois State Treasurer announces residents with savings bonds are owed money The government has around $30 billion in unpaid savings bonds. People in Illinois and Iowa should check online to see if they have unclaimed money.
	Muscatine Humane Society hopes to encourage adoptions with 'Kash 4 Kritters' event This year, the Muscatine Humane Society’s “Kash 4 Kritters” event will be held May 3 – 5 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, and 12 to 4…
	Progress Muscatine starts new educational video series This week, Progress Muscatine began releasing its “Know Better, Do Better” video series. The series is set to release a new video every Tuesday through June 2024.
	Quad-Cities high school seniors earn annual Iowa Credit Union Foundation scholarships Four Quad-Cities area high school students earned a portion of the Iowa Credit Union Foundation's record-breaking 2024 Warren A. Morrow Memorial Scholarships.

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