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

Tuesday, April 30th, 2024
	Historic military tank now on display at Rock Island Arsenal A historic military tank built and restored at the Rock Island Arsenal is now on display. The Mark VIII Liberty Tank came to the Arsenal to be restored in 2021, and the Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center did the work. It also built the tank more than a century ago to be used in World War I. The war ended before the tank made it to the battlefield. The tank on display at the Arsenal is among only three that still exist today.
	Rob Sand calls for removal of four-year degree requirements for some state government jobs State Auditor Rob Sand is calling on the state to remove four-year college degree requirements from dozens of public sector jobs.
	Rotary Club and United Way join forces to boost kindergarten literacy in Muscatine Rotary Club of Muscatine partnered with the United Way of Muscatine to assemble literacy kits for kindergarten students at Jefferson Elementary School.
	5 Years Later: The Davenport Levee Break of 2019 Five years ago, a record-high Mississippi River broke through a wall of Hesco barriers, sending millions of gallons of flood water into downtown Davenport.
	Iowa before/after-school programs get $6M in grants The Iowa Department of Education awarded nearly $6 million in competitive Learning Beyond the Bell grants to more than 60 schools, including some in our viewing area.
	Downtown Davenport Flooding, 2019 vs. 2024 Five years ago, a record-high Mississippi River broke through a wall of Hesco barriers, sending millions of gallons of flood water into downtown Davenport.
	QCA's Hiney Heroes joins world's largest diaper drive A Quad-City nonprofit organization has joined a national effort to collect diapers. Hiney Heroes is taking part in the World’s Largest Diaper Drive. The goal is to collect more than two million diapers in May. All diapers and money collected in the QCA will stay local. For more information on donating, click here.
	Rock Island author receives first place prize at international writing contest for his mystery novel series Dave Ramacitti, whose pen name is Dave Lager, won first place in the Thriller/Suspense category for his fictional series following rural deputy sheriff Ro Delahanty.
	Davenport Central senior surprised with $20,000 scholarship Samuel Bevans had no idea he would be receiving the 2024 Kathryn Bell Tate Scholarship. He plans to attend Iowa State to study aerospace engineering.
	Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre in West Liberty hosting festival for new puppeteers The Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre will present a festival for new and inexperienced puppeteers on Saturday, May 4.
	Where and how to find morel mushrooms in the Quad Cities region Sightings of morel mushrooms are already occurring around the Quad Cities, with morels spotted in Davenport, Muscatine, Le Claire, Sherrard and other areas.
	Last day for Iowans to file taxes Tuesday is the final chance for Iowans to file their 2023 taxes.
	Iowa vigils oppose new immigration law A controversial Iowa immigration law is the topic of candlelight vigils across four major cities in Iowa, including Davenport, on Wednesday, May 1. In a concerted display of unity, resilience and resistance, the Latinx Immigrants of Iowa, Escucha Mi Voz, Forward Latino, LULAC Iowa, Obreros Católicos, Iglesia Reina de la Paz de Waterloo Iowa, and Quad Cities Interfaith are organizing the simultaneous vigils at 6:30 p.m. in Iowa City, Waterloo, Des Moines, and Davenport. They oppose enactment of the contentious bill SF 2340 by Gov. Kim Reynolds, due to take effect July 1, 2024. The Latino community, advocates, and allies stand firm in declaring SF 2340 unconstitutional and antithetical to American values, according to a Tuesday press release. The Quad Cities Interfaith vigil will be at 6:30 p.m. May 1, at St. Anthony's, 417 N. Main St., Davenport. “This bill isn't just a piece of legislation; it's an attack on our community's very essence,” said Jose Alvarado from Latinx Immigrants of Iowa. The Davenport vigil will be at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 417 N. Main St., Davenport, organized by Quad Cities Interfaith (641-990-2118). “Our state thrives because of immigrant labor. This law is a step backward for everyone,” Mayra Hernandez from Quad Cities Interfaith, said in Tuesday’s release. These peaceful vigils serve as a reference of solidarity, sending a resounding message that fear will not govern the lives and actions of the Latinx community in Iowa. With the rallying cry of "No Tenemos Miedo" - "We Are Not Afraid," participants aim to galvanize public opinion and showcase the collective resolve to challenge and overcome this unconstitutional legislative hurdle, the release says. President Joe Biden talks with the U.S. Border Patrol and local officials as he looks over the southern border, Feb. 29, 2024, in Brownsville, Texas, along the Rio Grande. Democrats are trying to outflank Republicans and convince voters they can address problems at the U.S. border with Mexico as immigration likely becomes a major issue in elections that will decide control of Congress. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) The organizers emphasize that America's immigration system is in dire need of repair and reform. In a profound reflection of their faith and community values, the organizers express that silence in the face of injustice is not an option. The vigils invite Iowans from all walks of life to join hands peacefully in a demonstration of support and to convey the unwavering spirit of unity and the power of collective action. When signing the bill into law on April 10, Gov. Reynolds said: “The Biden Administration has failed to enforce our nation’s immigration laws, putting the protection and safety of Iowans at risk. Those who come into our country illegally have broken the law, yet Biden refuses to deport them. This bill gives Iowa law enforcement the power to do what he is unwilling to do: enforce immigration laws already on the books.” “The Iowa Legislature has passed one of the most extreme, discriminatory, and unconstitutional anti-immigrant bills in the country, which is based on a Texas law that the courts have currently blocked,” Mark Stringer, ACLU of Iowa executive director, has said. Migrants who crossed the Rio Grande and entered the U.S. from Mexico are lined up for processing by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Sept. 23, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas. A divided Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, lifted a stay on a Texas law that gives police broad powers to arrest migrants suspected of crossing the border illegally, while a legal battle over immigration authority plays out. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) "This law, which is set to go into effect on July 1, 2024, authorizes police to arrest people based on their federal immigration status and tells Iowa judges to order someone to be deported or jailed before they have an opportunity to seek humanitarian protection that they are entitled to,” he said. "The Iowa law enforcement and state judges tasked with authority to carry out this outrageous law are not trained in immigration law and have no proper authority to enforce it. The law encourages and facilitates racial profiling and stereotyping,” Stringer said. “It undermines—not promotes—public safety and the rule of law. It will consume already strapped state court and law enforcement resources. This law is designed to wreak havoc in Iowa families and communities; it threatens Iowans who are citizens and noncitizens alike.” You can read the complete bill HERE.
	John Deere contests OSHA citations John Deere is contesting three Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) citations they received following the death of an employee last year.
	Davenport marks 5-year anniversary of historic flooding Millions of gallons of water flooded into Downtown Davenport.
	Treasures galore at Geneseo spring garage sale Bargain and treasure hunters, listen up! Geneseo is hosting the event for you! Chamber of Commerce executive director Zack Sullivan dropped by Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Geneseo Spring City-Wide Garage Sale. For more information, click here.
	Illinois pushes for affordable housing tax credit Advocates for the homeless say one thing is necessary to help people get off the street: affordable housing. There's a push in Illinois for a tax credit to incentivize people who build affordable homes. The credit would be modeled after the low-income housing tax credit administered federally. Developers would be able to exchange the credits with investors who choose to invest in the units. Under the proposal, credits would only be given after construction is finished and people can move in. For more information, click here.
	Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre hosts festival for new puppeteers The Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre will present a festival for new and inexperienced puppeteers on Saturday, May 4.
	Rock Island author wins first place prize in international writing contest for mystery book series Dave Ramacitti, whose pen name is Dave Lager, won first place in the Thriller/Suspense category for his fictional series following rural deputy sheriff Ro Delahanty.
	Shakey Graves, May 10 Boasting three Billboard top-10 album smashes in Roll the Bones, And the War Came, and Can't Wake Up, folk singer/songwriter Shakey Graves – the performance moniker of Austin, Texas-born Alejandro Rose-Garcia – headlines a May 10 concert at Davenport's Rhythm City Casino Resort Event Center, the artist's 2023 Movie of the Week lauded by Under the Radar magazine as "a heady intellectual concept laced with his silly sense of humor."
	Daniel Pak, May 13 through 16 Appearing locally as the final guest in the 2023-24 season of Quad City Arts' Visiting Artist Series, native Hawaiian Daniel Pak will perform in a half-dozen free-to-the-public events from May 13 through 16, with TotemStar.org stating that the musician and educator "embodies the warmth and soul of the islands in his music of healing and joy."
	Davenport Central senior wins $20K scholarship In a surprise announcement, Davenport Central High School’s Samuel Bevans was awarded the 2024 Kathryn Bell Tate Scholarship on Tuesday morning. This $20,000 scholarship is awarded to one Davenport senior each year through the Davenport Schools Foundation and is disbursed over a four-year period of undergraduate schoolwork. It can be used at any accredited college or university. John Korn, left, scholarship committee co-chair and Davenport Schools Foundation board member, with scholarship winner Samuel Bevans, a Davenport Central senior. “I am committed to achieving my goal of becoming a NASA engineer by focusing on my coursework, maintaining a strong academic record, and collaborating with other students to expand my knowledge in the field,” Bevans said in a school district release. “This award will help me pursue my bachelor’s degree at Iowa State University and will give me the best opportunity to achieve my dreams.” He plans to attend Iowa State University in the fall pursuing a major in Aerospace Engineering with goals to become an aerospace engineer, fulfilling his passions for aviation and engineering. “The Davenport Schools Foundation is pleased to celebrate Samuel’s academic and community service achievements by awarding this scholarship to him,” foundation executive director Sally Crino said. “The foundation oversees more than 50 scholarships and this year, we have awarded over $97,000 in scholarships to deserving seniors in the district. We are grateful to the donors who make these awards possible.” Samuel Bevans, center, celebrates his $20,000 scholarship with Davenport Central principal Brian Ehlinger, and school counselor Julie Bueschel. During his Intro to Engineering course at Central High School, Bevans had the opportunity to work with a physical therapist to design and print a 3D therapy device to help a young elementary student with limited mobility have better access to technology, the district release said. “Although I may not have changed the world with my device, I was able to make a meaningful improvement in a small way for another person,” Bevans said. “This is and always will be my goal in life.” “We are thankful for the opportunities our students like Samuel receive through the generous philanthropic work of the Davenport Schools Foundation,” said TJ Schneckloth, Davenport Community Schools Superintendent. “Samuel’s commitment to excellence, both academically and within our community, exemplifies his dedication to his dreams and his compassion for others.” Samuel Bevans (center) pictured with his grandparents Bob and Cindy Weil, left, brother Jack (a 5th-grade teacher in Blue Grass), and mother Elizabeth (a math teacher at Williams Intermediate in Davenport). Bevans is part of the National Honor Society, a group leader in the mentors in violence prevention program, elementary reading buddies, a member of Davenport Central leadership team, a programming captain on the robotics team, and vice president of the drama department. He spends his free time volunteering with Young Eagles, sharing his passion for aviation with younger students. The scholarship, awarded annually by the Davenport Schools Foundation, was established in Kathryn Bell Tate’s honor in 2002 to assist the children of employees of the Davenport Public Schools in financing their undergraduate education. Tate (1906-2003) was a longtime teacher at McKinley Elementary School. Bevans’s mother Elizabeth is a middle school math teacher at Williams Intermediate, 3040 N. Division St. Each year, one Davenport student is awarded the Tate scholarship, and selection of recipients is based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, moral character, and other conditions considered appropriate by the Selection Committee. It was the largest of the 51 scholarships awarded by the foundation this year, Crino said.
	Pokey LaFarge, May 14 Performing blues, folk, country, and Americana music that, according to NPR, “evokes the old-timey spirit of a thousand crackling 78 RPM records” whose “energy makes them feel new and alive,” Midwestern singer/songwriter Pokey LaFarge headlines a May 14 concert at Davenport's Redstone Room, the artist's 2022 album In the Blossom of Their Shade lauded by PopMatters as "vintage stuff that never sounds old as much as ripe and ready for cruising."
	The Claudettes, May 16 Touring in support of their most recent album that, according to No Depression, proves the band's "otherworldly qualities" make them "the quirkiest sound around," blues, rock, and pop ensemble The Claudettes headline a May 16 concert at Davenport's Redstone Room, with Americana Highways stating that in The Claudettes Go Out!, "Their tight approach to varied musical genres is adorned with no gimmicks, nothing superficial, and everything suited to inspiring melodies and spirited lyrics."
	The Matt Fuller Band, May 11 A Davenport native and the youngest person to be inducted into the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, multi-instrumentalist Matt Fuller brings his ensemble to Moline for a May 11 performance at the Sound Conservatory, the artist's Matt Fuller Band boasting Fuller on guitar, Tyrone Phillips on vocals, Bobby Huether on drums, and Dewey Lacefield on bass guitar.
	Kirk Ferentz to speak at Duke Slater Memorial Statue & Scholarship fundraiser event in Clinton Iowa football Head Coach Kirk Ferentz will speak during the scholarship fundraising kickoff event.
	Humbird, May 14 Touring in support of the band's 2024 release Right On, an album whose title track was praised by Atwood magazine as "an achingly tender ballad with a fire burning deep inside," Siri Undlin and her indie outfit Humbird headline a May 14 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, with Atwood adding that the song is "a softly stirring eruption of vulnerability and raw humanity."
	Ringo Deathstarr, May 11 Hailed by AllMusic.com as "one of the finest exemplars of blown-out shoegaze and amped-up dream pop," the alternative musicians of Ringo Deathstarr headline a May 11 concert event at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, their most recent, self-titled album praised by Post-Trash as a work that "condenses everything special about the shoegaze purveyors into one complete package."
	Matthew Logan Vasquez, May 15 With his February release Frank's Full Moon Saloon praised by Glide magazine as a "raw and intimate" recording that "seems to mark a new chapter" for the artist, Matthew Logan Vasquez headlines a May 15 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the acclaimed singer/songwriter and guitarist also a member of the rock band Delta Spirit and the indie super-groups Middle Brothers and Glorietta.
	Christopher Paul Stelling, May 11 Hailed by Acoustic Guitar as " not just an incredible guitarist — one who is capable of filling a room with only his dexterous fingerpicking, voice, and stomp of his foot - but also an excellent songwriter," acclaimed folk artist Christopher Paul Stelling headlines a May 11 concert event at Rock Island's Rozz-Tox, the Florida native also praised by the Village Voice as "a pristine, total package of a one-man musical outfit that recalls the intensity of The Tallest Man on Earth and labelmate Glen Hansard."
	The Lettermen, May 13 With gifted vocalist and ensemble leader Donovan Tea currently celebrating his astonishing 40th year with the group, the beloved pop vocalists of the Lettermen make their long-awaited return to the Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse on May 13, their ever-popular springtime engagements overflowing with timeless hits such as “When I Fall in Love,” “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” “Hurt So Bad,” and “Shangri-La.”
	Horn Hang with Marc Zyla, May 11 Hosted by the Quad City Symphony Orchestra, the Horn Hang with Marc Zyla will find the ensemble's principal horn player meeting fellow horn players of all ages for an exciting hour of sight-reading ensemble music for their instruments, with coffee, music, and good times scheduled for May 11 at Davenport's First Presbyterian Church.
	First Army Deputy Commanding General for Support says farewell to Command Maj. Gen. Jeffrey W. Jurasek, who served as First Army deputy commanding general for support and commanding general of the United States Army Support Command-First Army, will relinquish his position during a ceremony at 10 a.m. Thursday.
	Narratives QC hosts first Creative Arts Showcase Words have transformational power to change lives. The nonprofit Narratives QC knows this well. On Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at 6 p.m., Narratives QC invites the community to its inaugural Creative Arts Showcase, an inspiring evening of spoken word and poetry performed by local young adults at the Rock Island Public Library's Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30th St. Narratives QC held an open-mic fundraising event at the King Center in Rock Island this past winter. The organization believes every young adult deserves to reach his or her full potential and, through mentors, life coaching and creative expression, empowers them to find their purpose and achieve success. The Creative Arts Showcase marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Month in May and celebrates the profound impact of expressive arts on emotional well-being, particularly for young adults ages 17-25. During the event, participants of Narratives QC’s programs will share their personal stories and creative poems, highlighting their journeys and the therapeutic benefits of spoken word. Thanks to a generous grant from Quad City Arts in partnership with the Rock Island Library, the event is free to the public. Narratives programs are all free -- based at The House, a nondenominational church, at 2623 5th Ave., Rock Island. The middle of the building is used by QC Closet2Closet. The House is at 2623 5th Ave., Rock Island. (photo by Jonathan Turner) Young adults are paired with trained life coaches for individualized support based on their strengths, weaknesses, and life goals. Narratives supports young adults who have mental health issues, addiction, and trauma find the most adaptive ways to function with their mental illness and not let that hinder their success in life. When paired with life coaching and community mentors, mental health support helps young adults change their lives more significantly than any one aspect alone, according to the group website. The main meeting room for Narratives QC at The House in Rock Island (photo by Jonathan Turner). Group classes provide education in a safe environment on topics that the entire group needs to achieve their goals. Topics may include money management, cooking, employment coaching and skills, study skills, and basic daily living skills. Growth over four years Narratives started right before the pandemic in early 2020, mainly meeting virtually. “We were all-volunteer staff up until last year, and we’ve exploded in the number of young adults, staff and programming,” co-founder and executive director Annette Clevenger said Tuesday, noting they served 75 people last year. “It has just taken off.” Dr. Annette Clevenger, co-founder and executive director of Narratives QC, started the nonprofit in early 2020 (photo by Jonathan Turner). There are also some groups they run in the community, such as at Black Hawk College and the Thurgood Marshall Learning Center. Narratives also plans to expand to Scott Community College. The mission is to empower young adults in that transition from youth to adulthood, Clevenger said. “We work with them on a variety of things, to help them find their voice and their path to success.” That includes education, employment, housing, life skills, relationships, cooking classes. Narratives uses spoken word and transformational writing to encourage the young adults to express themselves and find healing and solutions. “They’re working through the struggles of life – mental health, relationships, anything, you name it,” Clevenger said. The Wednesday event is the culmination of the past year’s work, made to be very inclusive. Not all the people will perform or read their pieces -- some will have work read on behalf of them, or shown by video. “The goal is to get their word out – they have wonderful things to contribute to the community,” Clevenger said. “We want that to be heard, in whatever form they’re most comfortable doing it.” Narratives has two full-time staff (including Clevenger, a clinical psychologist) and two part-time staff, plus life coaches, who meet with young adults, in group and one-on-one counseling sessions. They meet weekly on Wednesday nights, including a free meal. They host a spoken word group, a women’s empowerment group, a board games group and Bible study. It’s all based on what the young people want, Clevenger said. All programs free The programs are all free, because most of them can’t afford it and don’t have insurance coverage. There’s typically a three-month waiting list to access traditional mental health services in the area, and young people prefer the group therapy format, Clevenger said. Narratives QC groups typically meet Wednesday nights, starting with a free meal. “We have to find creative ways for them to tackle their mental health issues, that don’t look like the conventional sit-down therapy,” she said. “Research shows that group settings are actually more beneficial therapeutically, but most mental health centers don’t use them because insurance won’t pay for it.” Hearing that you’re not alone in struggles of depression and anxiety is the main benefit to group settings, Clevenger said. “Just having peer support and connection, and also it’s therapeutic to be a sounding board for each other.” Life coaches have backgrounds in social services, but are not psychologists like Clevenger. One part-time employee is Chris Britton, a creative arts specialist who will be part of Wednesday's event. He works at Thurgood Marshall Learning Center, Rock Island; holds a B.A. in youth ministry & adolescent studies and a master's in leadership in ministry from Judson University. Britton served the community for over 15 years as a director at YouthHope. “What young adults want is for us to be genuine, real and authentic, kind of do life with them in a meaningful way,” Clevenger said. “We are not looking to take the place of any counselors in the community. We are about providing extra mental health support and we are about prevention.” There is a tendency for greater mental health challenges in early adulthood, and many people Narratives sees have dropped out of high school or college, or don’t have a satisfying job and need to complete a GED, she said. “Anything we can do to lower that risk can help them for years to come,” she said. Partnering with other groups Narratives is partnering with spoken word artist Aubrey Barnes and his group Young Lions Roar to present another creative open-mic showcase for Juneteenth, June 19, at Theo's Java Cafe in downtown Rock Island. That will include younger kids from his program. "Because this has become so popular and effective, we are actually looking to expand and become a therapy modality," Clevenger said. They're applying for a grant to have Britton trained to incorporate spoken word and hip-hop into therapy. "Currently, the focus is just on the writing and performing. With Chris, there's a whole another layer that we can provide, of understanding the meaning and benefits, exploring finding healing from trauma, in your native language," she said. "It has found to be really effective in urban areas," Clevenger said. "We are so big into partnerships here at Narratives." Clevenger, a clinical psychologist, at Narratives QC on April 30, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). In early April, Narratives hosted another event at Watts-Midtown Branch for National Poetry Month. "Our goal is to get our young adults into the community and the community involved in our young adults," Clevenger said. "We're trying to expand." Narratives is working with some business partners to help offer employment or job skills. They are funded by grants and private donations. Narratives had its first fundraiser this past winter at the MLK Center, Rock Island, and hope to hold another one this fall. "We work on building community, so they trust each other," Clevenger said of the group sessions. "They're learning to trust their peers, which allows them to be more vulnerable and more transparent to, compared with someone they just walk in every week to, and I'm supposed to spill my guts, my most personal things?" Gave up own business Clevenger gave up her 20-year-old private family practice for Narratives, because she saw too many young people falling through cracks in the social safety net. The community is strong in serving K-12 kids, the elderly and people coming out of prison, but there are very few preventive services aimed at young adults, she said. "I gave it up four years ago," she said. A 1995 Rock Island High alum, she earned her bachelor's in psychology and sociology from Illinois State, and doctorate in clinical psychology from Wheaton College. "With the shortage of mental health services, I felt compelled to do something different and better," Clevenger said. She and co-founder Jessica McCracken visited an organization in Springfield, Mo., helping youth transition from foster care, and were inspired. "One of their biggest struggles was mental health needs of young adults," Clevenger said. "We toured this program like five years ago, thought it was phenomenal and thought we could replicate that here in the Quad Cities, and expand on it." "It shouldn't just be for young adults aging out of foster care," she said, noting Narratives fits the needs of the QC, open to anyone in that age group. Problems of technology People were isolated before the pandemic, which just added to mental health problems, Clevenger said. More than the pandemic, technology today isolates and hurts young adults. "We hide behind it -- the connection is not there. We don't sit down, one on one, talking," she said. "We gain convenience, but we lose connection," Clevenger said of tools like texting, email and social media. "People hide behind anonymity. It distances you -- you don't see the person and you don't see the pain, the reaction that your words cause. It gives you license to say things mentally that you shouldn't." Wednesday night group sessions usually start with a free 6 p.m. dinner. The Wednesday night sessions started last summer -- starting with a 6 p.m. dinner, with a second class starting at 7 p.m. They plan to expand to another weeknight, including outdoor activities this summer. Life coaches are very similar to mentors, along the lines of an adult Big Brothers Big Sisters. "That's the best thing I could liken it to," Clevenger said. "You hang out with somebody at the ball park, having coffee, you join them in going fishing. You take an interest, encourage them, support them the way you would a friend." "The best part of my job is, we celebrate their successes, so we are regularly having graduation parties here, or when you get a new job," she said. Narratives ideally would like to produce a book this fall collecting the writing of many of their clients. For more information on the group, click HERE.
	IL Department of Transportation closing U.S. 150 crossing for renovations Drivers in Henry County need to pay attention when driving on U.S. 150 next week. In a news release, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that U.S. 150 at the BNSF Railroad crossing in Henry County will be closed from Monday, May 6, through Saturday, May 11. The crossing is north of Ophiem Road. The crossing closure will allow the railroad to remove and replace its at-grade crossing and repave the approaches. A marked detour will direct traffic to use Illinois 81, Interstate 74 and Illinois 17. Drivers can expect delays and should allow extra time driving through this area. They should consider using alternate routes when possible. Drivers should pay attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, avoid using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment. For the latest information on road construction in Illinois, click here.
	“Chicago,” May 15 One of only few musicals in history to win Tonys, a Grammy, and the Academy Award for Best Picture, the legendary Chicago enjoys a tour stop of Davenport's Adler Theatre in May 15, this second-longest-running show in Broadway history a smash with both audiences and critics, with the New York Times stating, "It has theatrical muscle, the characters are vivid, and its issues are ongoing in our public discourse."
	The Mockingbird on Main's “To Kill a Mockingbird," May 16 through 26 Nearly a year after the tragic collapse of the downtown-Davenport building that housed theatre venue The Mockingbird on Main, the company will fly again with an appropriate title for its return to Moline's Black Box Theatre:To Kill a Mockingbird, playwright Christopher Sergel's adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning Harper Lee novel, running May 16 through 26.
	2024 Beaux Arts Spring Fair, May 11 and 12 An eagerly awaited springtime event taking place over Mother's Day weekend in Davenport's spacious Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds, the 2024 Beaux Arts Spring Fair will treat visitors to an outdoor celebration of visual arts and fine crafts on May 11 and 12, with the annual event featuring food, live music, children's activities, and works for sale by more than 60 artists and Midwestern vendors.
	Quad City Arts Annual Celebration, May 16 Taking place this year at The Bend Event Center in East Moline, the May 16 Quad City Arts Annual Celebration invites the public to gain insight into the organization's recent achievements, future plans, and community impact, all while enjoying hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, and a performance by Quad City Arts Visiting Artist Daniel Pak.
	“Lady Bird,” May 16 Lauded by the New York Times as "big-screen perfection ... exceptionally well-written, full of wordplay and lively argument," Barbie visionary and Oscar nominee Greta Gerwig's coming-of-age masterpiece Lady Bird enjoys a May 16 screening with the Rock Island Public Library's downtown-branch Downtown Movie Club, the film a National Society of Film Critics Best Picture winner that, according to Variety, boasts "a powerfully distinctive voice."
	“Sesame Street Live! Say Hello,” May 14 On May 14, young children and their young-at-heart chaperones can enjoy the stage version of one of the most popular entertainments in television history, with Sesame Street Live: Say Hello invites audiences to a reunion with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends at Davenport's Adler Theatre.
	Sorensen nominates student from Moline High to US Military Academy A Moline high school student is one step closer to attending the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N. Y. after he was nominated by Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17). Sorensen nominated five students from central and northwestern Illinois for admission to the United States Service Academies for the class entering in the fall of 2024. One of them is John Nienhaus from Moline High School. John Nienhaus (submitted photo) “One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is highlighting the talented young people that live throughout our communities in central and northwestern Illinois,” said Sorensen. “Being nominated to a U.S Service Academy is not an easy thing to accomplish, and I am proud of this year’s nominees for their willingness to serve and keep their neighbors and our country safe. Best of luck to all our nominees as they go through the appointment process and congratulations on this incredible achievement.” “Being blessed with the opportunity to attend the United States Military Academy is something I have been wanting for months now, and my dream came true,” said Nienhaus. “I cannot give enough thanks to my family, friends and my counselors for guiding me. I also want to give thanks to Congressman Sorensen and his office, for this opportunity would not have been possible without their support either.” Sorensen, like other members of Congress, nominates qualified students from Illinois 17th Congressional District to attend the four service academies each year: the U.S. Military Academy in West Point; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, M.d.; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. Nominees must be accepted by the academies to be admitted. Click here for more information on the military academy nomination process.
	Police report: More details released after man enters Galesburg High School after being denied access 22-year-old Andre Odom went to the school's front office on April 22 before being asked to leave. He gained reentry after a student let him in a side door.
	Iowa Freedom of Information Council joins Davenport/Sidran lawsuit There’s a new party in the lawsuit between the City of Davenport and Ezra Sidran over a settlement payment to former city administrator Cori Spiegel. Randy Evans, Executive Director of the Iowa Freedom of Information Council explains how his organization is participating. IA-FOIC-motion-to-interveneDownload “We have been involved through the years with the controversies that bubble up in communities around the state,” said Evans. “We follow what's going on and when things are occurring that we believe are inappropriate, we will step in and try to engage with government leaders to help them understand why we think that better transparency serves them well and it also serves their constituents, the taxpayers.” For Evans, the timing of the agreement between the city and Spiegel raises questions. “This agreement had been worked out and had been signed by the city and Ms. Spiegel before the election. but was not made public until after the election. To me, that is just a cut and dried example of government officials forgetting that, in this case, city government in Davenport doesn’t belong to the elected City Council members and the mayor; it belongs to the citizens of Davenport.” He says the agreement between the city and Spiegel should be more public. “We believe strongly that this letter was the basis for $1.6 million in taxpayer money going to Ms. Spiegel,” Evans said. “We believe strongly that that is a public record that the citizens of Davenport should be able to read and see so they can evaluate the allegations that she was making apparently in the letter, so that the citizens can evaluate the diligence or lack of diligence by the City Council and investigating these allegations before the vote on paying the settlement.” The settlement’s approval is also troubling. “The fact that the settlement was approved without a formal vote of the City Council is just the antithesis of what government transparency should be about it, it shouldn't be carried out in secret,” Evans said. “In my 50-some years of paying attention to these kinds of cases, I’ve never seen an example as egregious as what occurred in Davenport, where Davenport's own city ordinances required that there be a formal vote of the City Council on any settlement that involved the payment of $50,000 or more. The former city attorney’s assertion that he had the consent of the City Council and did not need a formal vote just flies in the face of what the plain reading of the city ordinances is.” “It also flies in the face of what the public meetings law requires. It allows government boards to meet for what is called ministerial purposes, which is kind of housekeeping details. The decision on expending $1.6 million is a far cry from a housekeeping detail. We just think it's atrocious that the controversy has gotten to this point without city leaders admitting that they had simply botched this from the beginning.” Evans said the Iowa FOIC isn’t a new party to the lawsuit but are more like advisors to the suit. “We asked the court to allow our organization to intervene in the city’s lawsuit against Mr. Sidran so that we could provide the court with our legal analysis of the city's obligations under the public records law, so that we could provide the court with our assessment of why we believe that the letter should be made available to everybody who's asking to see it.” Evans accuses the city of choosing Sidran specifically for the lawsuit and not groups with deeper pockets who had also requested the letter. “It’s not a coincidence, I don’t believe that the city of Davenport chose to sue Mr. Sidran, a retiree who doesn’t have a lawyer, instead of bringing the legal challenge against an entity that had also asked for the letter. The city knew that if they sued a member of the media, those employers would make lawyers available to represent the media’s position. The city knew that Mr. Sidran wasn’t going to be able to go out and hire a lawyer at hundreds of dollars per hour on a retiree’s income. We asked the court to allow us to intervene, to be able to bring to the court’s attention the legal basis that we believe makes the letter a public record.” Evans is taking the city’s refusal with a grain of salt. “The city resisted; their assertion that they have no position on whether the letter should or shouldn't be public record is farcical.” He said Davenport residents need to be aware of how their tax dollars are spent. “The taxpayers of Davenport, whether they know it or not, were paying attorneys hundreds of dollars an hour to try to keep our organization out of the court case. The judge fortunately saw the rationale for our request to intervene and granted it, which was a kind of a stinging rebuke for the city.” Our Quad Cities News reached out to the City of Davenport for a statement but have not yet heard from them. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for May 14.
	Police report: More details released after man enters Galesburg High School after being denied access 22-year-old Andre Odom went to the school's front office on April 22 before being asked to leave. He gained reentry after a student let him in a side door.
	4th Annual Sip & Shop event to be held in Downtown Muscatine The Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry along with downtown businesses will host the 4th annual Sip & Shop event on Friday, May 10.
	INTERVIEW: Bettendorf Cars & Coffee Show If you love cars, coffee, or both, we have the perfect event for you this weekend. It's the Bettendorf Cars and Coffee Show. Conor Flaherty and Julie Fick Martin joined Our Quad Cities News This Morning to share more about it. Watch the video above or see more information below.
	Scam alert: What you need to know to avoid storms-chaser scams, price-gouging Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said scammers and “shady” contractors exploit vulnerable people after damaging storms.
	Pet dies in Galesburg house fire The Galesburg Fire Department responded to the fire on Sunday, April 28, at 9 a.m. According to the first responders, one pet passed away during the fire.
	Ballet QC gets $100,000 donation for building On Tuesday, April 30th, Ballet Quad Cities announced it's received a $100,000 donation to its building fund, for renovations to its new space in downtown Moline. BQC purchased the property at 1611 5th Avenue, in October 2022 and has been working on a capital campaign, “Building Ballet Quad Cities Better” to raise funds for the building’s renovation. Renderings for the planned $1.4-million renovation of 1611 5th Ave., Moline, for Ballet Quad Cities' new home. “We are thrilled to receive a major gift from a local arts supporter that is moved by the organization’s benefit to the community,” Ballet Quad Cities founder and CEO Joedy Cook said in a Tuesday morning release. “The addition of private funds to our grants will greatly help us to fulfill the vision of a fully functional studio for our company.” The new location in Moline offers wide open spaces -- without pillars that restrict movement -- as well as room to grow and expand programming that engages, inspires, and transforms the community, BQC said. City of Moline officials met recently with Ballet Quad Cities CEO Joedy Cook (right) to discuss the planned renovation of 1611 5th Ave., Moline, for the professional dance company. The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “I am so happy to give to the Ballet that provides exceptional beauty to the entire community through performances and youth programs in the schools.” The donation is intended to provide matching funds for other private donations that are currently being solicited. “This is a great shot in the arm for our capital campaign,” Dan Gleason, BQC board chairman, said in the release. “It’s rare to see that level of support from a private donor and we hope this will inspire others to give. We are tremendously grateful.” A scene from Ballet Quad Cities' April 2024 production of "Snow White" at the Adler Theatre (photo by Joseph Maciejko). The donation brings the capital campaign total raised through grants and other private donations to $700,000, about half of the $1.4 million required to complete the renovations. BQC holds a public performance schedule during the regular season and engages with schools and the community through programs such as “Dance Me a Story: Exploring Literature through Ballet” initially for second graders and later expanded and adapted for all ages. A bullying prevention program entertains and teaches first through sixth grades, and “LEAP: Ballet as Conversation” is designed for fourth-grade students. Moline’s Fifth Avenue is experiencing a renaissance with the Sound Conservatory leasing the Carnegie Library last fall for teaching music lessons and regular community concerts, joining the eight-year-old Black Box Theatre nearby. BQC dancers at the downtown Moline property in 2023. “Ballet Quad Cities’ purchase and renovation of the property is another building block that is creating a ‘Heart of the Arts’ District in downtown Moline,” Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati said. “We are pleased to see the investment in our community by these organizations.” BQC dancers rehearse in their studio at 613 17th St., Rock Island (photo by Kelly Bryant). The company (which for years has operated at 613 17th St., Rock Island) hopes to begin construction later this year. Cook said there isn't an exact date yet for building work to start. For more information on BQC, click HERE.
	Salute to First Responders: Julie Pope Julie Pope has served as a paramedic and teacher for the Prophetstown Ambulance Service for more than 20 years. She was honored for her service as this month’s recipient of SERVPRO's Salute to First Responders. Her family, friends and coworkers surprised Julie with the recognition. Watch the video above to hear from them and see the check presentation.
	Man injured in Rock Island shooting After reports of gunshots, Rock Island police arrived to 1100 block of 8th Avenue on Monday afternoon and found a 20-year-old who was seriously injured by a gunshot wound.
	See the stars at Augustana College's John Deere Planetarium Spring Open House Enjoy stargazing at Augustana College's John Deere Planetarium during its annual Spring Open House on Saturday, May 11. The planetarium is located at 820 38th Street and will be open from 8:30-10 p.m., featuring indoor and outdoor programs led by planetarium director Dr. Lee Carkner. Admission is free. Space fans can see the mountains and craters of the moon through Augustana’s telescopes. There will also be a planetarium show and an opportunity to visit the Carl Gamble Observatory. The Getz-Rogers Gallery will be open, featuring images of celestial objects and a quarter-ton piece of the Canyon Diablo meteor. John Deere Planetarium telescope Cryolophosaurus The Fryxell Geology Museum will also be open and features one of the best collections of minerals and fossils in the Midwest. The museum is in Swenson Hall of Geosciences, next to the planetarium. The museum features a wall of glowing, fluorescent rocks; casts of a Tyrannosaurus rex skull and a complete 22-foot long skeleton of Cryolophosaurus, a large, crested carnivorous dinosaur discovered in Antarctica by Dr. William Hammer, a paleontology professor at Augustana at the time. The observing areas in the planetarium are unheated, so visitors are advised to dress for the weather. Telescope views may not be possible in the event of cloudy skies, but the indoor programs will still be held.
	REVIEW: Murder in the Studio at the Black Box Theatre Murder in the Studio continues at The Black Box Theatre, 1623 5th Avenue in Moline, Thursday through Saturday, May 2nd through 4th at 7:30 p.m.
	Augustana expands Augie Choice assistance Fifteen years after launching Augie Choice, Augustana College is expanding the program, allowing sophomores in addition to juniors and seniors to apply for up to $2,000 to help pay expenses related to an internship, research or study away experience. The broadening of this program coincides with the launch of the college’s five-year strategic plan, Bold & Boundless, which prioritizes engaged learning, maximizing student potential and connecting to the community through partnership, according to a college release. That learning then translates into students finding inspirational pathways and developing their capacity to be impactful citizens when they leave Augustana. Making Augie Choice accessible to sophomores allows students to access the transformative experiences earlier and accelerate the building of skills and mindsets that today’s and tomorrow’s employers desire, the private liberal arts school in Rock Island said. Each year, nearly 550 students use Augie Choice to engage in career- and life-changing experiences. Augustana has invested more than $11.8 million to assist Augustana students in achieving high-impact learning experiences. During the 2022-2023 school year, 415 students were awarded Augie Choice. Of the recipients, 224 used those funds to study abroad, 177 to defray the costs of internships and 14 used it to conduct independent research. Since 2009, over 3,000 Augustana students have used Augie Choice funds to study abroad. One of the goals of Bold & Boundless, President Andrea Talentino said, is to make high-impact learning opportunities unavoidable for students, which means they need to be accessible to all. Augie Choice helps remove or lessen financial barriers for students, and this expansion helps students pursue opportunities to shape their chosen academic and career paths earlier during their time at Augustana. “We know Augie Choice has been instrumental in shaping Augustana juniors and seniors into strong leaders and that it prepares them for their next steps in the workforce, graduate education or service,” Talentino said. “We’ve seen the benefits for these students, and we are so excited to add sophomore students to this program to allow them to dive into the experiences that will enrich them and lead them to their next steps.” Augie Choice dollars have helped students in a variety of ways — paying for professional clothing for internships, covering rent for internships or research, and helping students travel. This includes students who have traveled individually and group travel. Since its inception, more than 3,000 students have used Augie Choice for study abroad; 2,400+ used it for the costs related to internships, such as rent or professional clothes; and nearly 400 have used it to conduct research. Augie president Andrea Talentino discusses the benefits of Augie Choice in a college video. “Augustana develops the qualities of mind, spirit and body necessary for students to discover their life’s calling of leadership and service in a changing world, and we know Augie Choice creates life-defining experiences that prepare them for that world,” Talentino said. “We also know that earlier opportunities will help them better shape their curricular and co-curricular journey and inspire their vocational direction.” Members of the Class of 2024 who tapped into Augie Choice includes: Leslie Bandera, a biochemistry and chemistry double major, paid for housing in Houston, Texas, for her summer research experience with the Texas Medical Center. Alexander Tosetti, an accounting and business administration-finance double major, paid for professional attire and transportation costs during his summer internship. John Flannery traveled to Japan with the Augustana Symphonic Band during the spring 2023 tour. The group explored the country and played concerts with Japanese students. Emily Martin, an environmental studies and geology double major, went to Bonaire in the Caribbean as part of Geology 321: Island Geology to learn more about the nature of the islands and threats upon them. Alyssa Macias, a public health major, studied abroad in Iceland and Sweden, learning about the multiple factors influencing health and wellness in Scandinavia in comparison to America. Grey White, a theatre – musical theatre and business administration – management double major, interned at Skellington Manor in Rock Island, and funded “Private Lives,” the play they directed as part of their Senior Inquiry. More information about Augie Choice is available HERE.
	Niabi Zoo opening for the season on Tuesday Niabi Zoo opening for the season on Tuesday
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for April 30, 2024 The people's identities in the I-80 car crash have been released, and Davenport is looking for an assistant city attorney. The Army Corps is debuting lower pool 13.
	Touch a Truck event set in Galesburg The City of Galesburg Parks and Recreation Department will host the annual Touch a Truck community event on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Lake Storey Pavilion, 1572 Machen Drive. Thanks to many organizations volunteering their time and equipment, the event will feature a plethora of vehicles for kids to see and explore, including fire trucks, police cars, tractors, and a race car. The City of Galesburg Parks and Recreation Department mobile playground truck will be on-site, and the Galesburg Police Department will offer free car seat safety checks. In addition to the event, Lake Storey Park includes a variety of activities for participants to enjoy, including walking trails, shelters for picnic lunches, and a playground. The event is geared for the preschool to early grade school age range but may be enjoyed by a wide variety of individuals. Registration is available, but not required, and the event is free and open to individuals and group outings. “We are excited to host this wonderful community event again this year, which allows kids the opportunity to see and explore a wide range of vehicles and equipment,” said Angie Buchen, recreation supervisor for the City of Galesburg Parks and Recreation Department. “It is an outstanding opportunity for hands-on learning, in a fun and interactive setting. We are thankful for the organizations who participate each year and make this a truly remarkable experience for the youth in our community.” More details can be found on the city’s website.
	Iowa DOT X account appears to be hacked, advertising crypto Local 5 has reached out to the Iowa DOT for any information on the mysterious change.
	Last lost zebra spotted Monday in North Bend, but again got away Three of the four zebras that escaped a trailer in North Bend on Sunday have been captured.
	Motorcyclists in Iowa raising concerns over bill to require riders to wear helmets New data from the Iowa Department of Transportation shows that 74% of motorcyclists killed on Iowa roadways were not wearing a helmet.
	First Army deputy commanding general to leave position Maj. Gen. Jeffrey W. Jurasek, who served as First Army deputy commanding general for support and commanding general of the United States Army Support Command-First Army, will relinquish his position during a May 2 ceremony at the Rock Island Arsenal. Maj. Gen. Jeffrey W. Jurasek (First Army) According to a release, Jurasek began his First Army assignment on November 8, 2021. In his position, he assisted the First Army commanding general with the training, readiness and mobilization of all Army National Guard and Army Reserve units across the United States and two U.S. territories. He joined the First Army team after serving as commanding general, 1st Mission Support Command in Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico. Jurasek was promoted to major general inside First Army headquarters in 2022. Jurasek leaves Rock Island Arsenal for an assignment in Asia. As part of the ceremony, First Army Soldiers will conduct ceremonial cannon fire during the ceremony.
	Muscatine intersection scheduled to reopen The intersection of Fulliam Ave, and Sycamore St. is scheduled to reopen Wednesday, May 1. Closed as part of Phase 6B of the West Hill Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project, the intersection may reopen at the end of the day on Tuesday, April 30, depending on the work progress and the weather, according to a release. Phase 6C is underway with utility work at the 11th St. and Iowa Ave. intersections. Iowa Ave. will be closed from both directions at the 11th St. intersections May 1-3. Traffic for 11th St. will be detoured to 10th St. Access to residences on E. 11th St. will be from E. 10th St. through the alley. Access to residences on W. 11th Street will be from W. 10th Street via Chestnut St. Once the utility work is completed at the intersection, Iowa Ave. and the W. 11th St. intersection will be reopened. Beginning May 6, E. 11th St. will be closed from Iowa Ave. to Sycamore St. as underground work for Phase 6C begins. For more information, click here.
Monday, April 29th, 2024
	How does Iowa’s state income tax rates compare to other states? Iowa joins a growing number of states to use a flat state income tax rate.
	One month later: 92-year-old East Moline man is still missing William “Bill” Weber, 92, was reported missing on the morning of March 30 and his whereabouts are still unknown.
	John Deere employees help build tricycles for children with disabilities Deere is donating 14 trikes this year.
	John Deere employees help build custom tricycles for kids with disabilities One employee finally got to help out a family member after a yearlong wait for a tricycle.
	Iowa DOT installing more speed signs 86 additional signs have been installed, and 100 more sites have already been approved for new signage.
	Name released in fatal Scott County crash Eric Fraelle died at the scene after police say a semi rear-ended his car.
	Illinois & Iowa workers remembered for Workers' Memorial Day Family and friends gathered in Illinois and Iowa to remember workers who lost their lives on the job. Internationally recognized on April 28, Workers' Memorial Day is in observance of when a federal law took effect to keep workers safe in the workplace. Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol Bureau correspondent Theodora Koulouvaris takes us to some of those observances. For more information, click here.
	Enjoy movies under the stars at The Last Picture House's new rooftop lounge The lounge features a full bar, fire pit and seating with a river view.
	Search continues for William Weber one month after he went missing Anyone with information about the 92-year-old's disappearance is asked to contact East Moline police.
	Jackson County sending out child care survey Economic development leaders said a lack of child care and affordable housing are the top two reasons people turn down job offers in the county.
	Moline Housing Authority receives $9 million grant The state funding will help cover the cost of building its Parkview Apartments complex.
	Sorensen back from bipartisan trip to border Illinois Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-Illinois) is back from a bipartisan trip to the border. The delegation of Democrats and Republican lawmakers went to Nogales, Arizona, last week for a fact-finding mission. Illinois Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-Illinois,) left, is back from a bipartisan trip to the border. (contributed photo) "This can't be a partisan or political issue, right?" he said. "We have to make sure that we solve the issue regardless of the year it is, regardless of what the politics are. It is also important that we keep our politics out of this, and we focus on what is in front of us and what are the facts." Sorensen says he will push for legislation that adds more border patrol agents and technology to combat drug and human trafficking. He hosted a news conference Monday in his Rock Island office to discuss what he learned.
	'Protecting Places of Worship' session set in Davenport The Davenport Civil Rights Commission, in collaboration with the Department of Justice Community Relations Service (CRS), has announced the launch of the Protecting Places of Worship Initiative, a news release says. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support and resources to ensure the safety and security of places of worship across the Illinois and Iowa Quad Cities. City of Davenport (City of Davenport Government) In recent years, incidents targeting places of worship have unfortunately become increasingly common, posing threats to the safety and well-being of congregants and communities as a whole. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding these sacred spaces, the Davenport Civil Rights Commission and CRS have joined forces to address this pressing issue, the release says. The event will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday, May 2, at the RiverCenter Mississippi Hall East (next to HotelBlackhawk,) 136 E. River Drive, Davenport. Through the Protecting Places of Worship Initiative, the Davenport Civil Rights Commission and CRS will offer a range of services including: Risk assessments: Conducting comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop tailored security plans for each place of worship. Training and education: Providing training sessions and educational resources on security protocols, emergency response procedures, and conflict resolution strategies for clergy members, staff, and volunteers. Community engagement: Facilitating dialogues and fostering partnerships between religious leaders, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations to promote understanding, collaboration, and mutual support. Crisis intervention: Offering immediate assistance and support in the aftermath of incidents targeting places of worship, including crisis counseling and coordination with law enforcement agencies. "We are deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals can worship freely and without fear," said Civil Rights Commission Director Latrice Lacey. "By partnering with the Department of Justice Community Relations Service, we are taking proactive steps to enhance the safety and security of places of worship and protect the fundamental right to religious freedom." For more information about the Protecting Places of Worship Initiative or to get involved, contact the Davenport Civil Rights Commission at 563-326-7888 or Latrice.Lacey@davenportiowa.com About the Davenport Civil Rights CommissionThe Davenport Civil Rights Commission is a civil rights law enforcement agency providing neutral investigations of alleged civil rights violations. About the Department of Justice Community Relations Service (CRS)The Department of Justice Community Relations Service (CRS) is the department's "peacemaker" for community conflicts and tensions arising from differences of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. ---
	Weekend tornadoes rip across Iowa Weekend tornadoes roared through parts of Iowa, and thousands of people lost power and their homes. Victims only had minutes to take shelter, with damage being done in seconds. As Our Quad Cities News correspondent Griffin Wright reports, many are now focused on cleaning up the aftermath.
	Freight House Farmers' Market opens for the 2024 season on May 4 The market will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.
	‘I’ve never had damage like this’: Iowa woman says recent storms worst of three she’s seen in 51 years The tornadoes that hit the state put an Iowa woman in a position that she’s unfortunately found herself numerous times. She’s cleaning up from another natural disaster.
	Life Breads Gluten Free Bakery celebrates first anniversary and commitment to celiac community As we approach Celiac Awareness Month, one local bakery is not only celebrating its first anniversary but also its dedication to serving those with specific dietary needs.
	Probstei Bar and Grill nearly back to normal following robbery Trenton Stewart was arrested the same day as the robbery after allegedly attempting to steal the bar's safe.
	Illinois village gets $600,000 to restore homes La Fayette Illinois. Population 250. Only 89 homes are in this community that's not even a mile long. (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) The village was established in the late 1830s and it's showing its age. "We've seen houses, including the one I grew up in, demolished," said longtime Village of La Fayette resident Bud Mckirgan. "There are several more in town that should be demolished because the village can't afford to take care of them." The small Stark County village is getting a huge boost: $600,000 will be used to renovate or repair homes. The money comes from the state in the form of a Community Development Block Grant. Village leaders spent more than a year laying the groundwork to acquire the grant. Surveys were sent out to each community member. They were asked to detail their housing issues and needs. At least 30 surveys were filled out, thanks to a collaboration with the North Central Illinois Council of Governments. Since at least 30 surveys were filled out, the village was awarded the maximum amount possible of $600,000. Village of La Fayette Mayor Chris Smith says this money will especially benefit people who are elderly or disabled. "The small community like this, this amount of money has just never been heard of here before," Smith said. "To help those that need the help is what it's all about. The opportunity to have this money to use it accordingly is going to be great." (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) Up to 10 homes will get money for improvements. It can be used for structural work, electrical and flooring improvements, new appliances, and more. The village's treasurer, Nora Williams, says this grant is vital to keep and attract more people. "It's very exciting to see that the homes will be able to get help and that people who lived here for years," Williams said. "Even with those that are elderly or disabled, they may not be able to have a ramp or have the amenities that they need to be able to stay home. This will be huge for every one in the community," she added. Resident Bud Mckirgan says he's excited for what the future may offer and he's happy for the next generation who will call La Fayette, home "Maybe we can hold our ground here for a while," Mckirgan said. "We have a lot of young people in town here. A lot of kids are running around on the streets now. It's something new in the last decade and it's important to have a place that they can feel safe in," he added. Village leaders say a committee will decide which homes get upgrades based on needs in the community. They hope contractors can come out next year to begin renovations. A total of nearly $9,000,000 was divided and awarded to 13 other communities, including Galesburg, in Illinois. They will get $650,000. That money will be focused on the southwest part of the city. For more information about the grant and its goals, click here.
	Rock Island appoints interim police chief The city of Rock Island has chosen its deputy chief of police to serve as interim police chief.
	Freight House Farmers Market opening for season The Freight House Farmers Market on the Davenport riverfront will be open Saturday.
	Rotary Club of Muscatine, United Way, give students literacy kits Rotary Club of Muscatine partnered with the United Way of Muscatine to assemble literacy kits for kindergarten students at Jefferson Elementary School, according to a news release. Hilary Henke, United Way of Muscatine’s community engagement manager, attended the Rotary Club’s weekly meeting Monday to provide information about the importance of achieving literacy benchmarks in early elementary school and to lead the kit-packing event. Rotary International Rotarians assembled and delivered 61 literacy kits to kindergartners at Jefferson Elementary on Monday. "Literacy kits deepen children’s reading experience and help them build their personal library at home," the release says. “It's incredibly rewarding when we can bridge Rotary's global focus on literacy with local impact, reaching students right here in Muscatine,” said Megan Francis, president, Rotary Club of Muscatine. Each kit included a book, a personalized note of encouragement, and an activity to make reading interactive and to bring the book to life for the children. “We are incredibly grateful to the Rotary Club for their generous donation of new books and activities for our Kindergarten students,” Kandy Steel, Ed.D, principal at Jefferson Elementary School, said. “Their support will undoubtedly inspire a love of learning and help our students continue to thrive, even while learning remotely. Thank you for your commitment to education and for making a difference in the lives of our Jefferson students." United Way of Muscatine’s goal is that every child succeeds academically through support in and out of school. Data show that third-grade reading proficiency scores in Muscatine County dropped by 19.2 percent post-pandemic and have still not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Research found having books in the home correlated to higher academic performance and children who are reading proficiently in third grade are five times more likely to graduate from high school. United Way strives to increase third grade reading proficiency rates through literacy kit packing events and programs like Imagination Library, Reading Buddies, and Reading Mentors. “We are grateful to Rotary Club of Muscatine for their ongoing support of community initiatives,” Henke said. “Their efforts through this kit-packing event will help ensure all kindergarten students at Jefferson Elementary School have a book of their own and book-related activities to enhance their learning.” Currently, 77.2 percent of Jefferson Elementary School students qualify for free and reduced lunch, which is the highest rate in the Muscatine Community School District. “The partnership with Rotary to get books and literacy kits into the homes of these students ahead of summer break is an important piece to increasing the number of children who are reading at or above grade level–a core piece of United Way’s efforts to increase household independence through education and training,” Henke said. “Instilling a love of reading in children is critical to ensuring more children are reading at or above their grade level–a core piece of United Way’s efforts to increase household independence through education and training,” Henke said. For more information, please contact Hilary Henke at hilary@unitedwaymuscatine.org or 563-263-5963. About United Way of Muscatine United Way of Muscatine has been serving the community for 70 years. The mission of United Way of Muscatine is to mobilize resources to empower the greater Muscatine community to improve the lives of people in need. Its goal is to increase household independence through education and housing.
	What's the latest on QC passenger rail service? Passenger rail service from Quad Cities to Chicago has been a longtime local priority, and former U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has put out a call to action to make the service a reality. Jennifer DeWitt from the Quad Cities Business Journal joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the latest on the plans. For more information, click here.
	Community rallies behind Probstei Bar and Grill following robbery Trenton Stewart was arrested the same day as the robbery after allegedly attempting to steal the bar's safe.
	Racket 'Ships: “Challengers,” “Unsung Hero,” and “Boy Kills World” I found Challengers almost obscenely entertaining – a deep dive into competitive and sexual power dynamics so overflowing with passion that your admission ticket should come with a complimentary mini-fan.
	Ferentz to speak at Clinton statue fundraiser The Duke Slater Memorial Statue & Scholarship fundraiser will be held Thursday May 9, at The Church at Lyons, 2118 North 2nd St., in Clinton, Iowa. To kick off the scholarship fundraising campaign, the committee is hosting University of Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz for a luncheon. The Church at Lyons in Clinton will host the May 9 fundraiser. From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., there will be a short program on Duke Slater’s life and the planned bronze statue to be placed at Clinton High School. Around 12:45 p.m., Kirk Ferentz will speak. “The goal for this scholarship is to have a four-year scholarship for a student,” Ryan Veenstra, committee member, said in a Grow Clinton release Monday. “Ideally, this would grow into a $2,500 per year scholarship. This event is to kick off the scholarship fundraising campaign so we can set the financial amounts. I’m thinking about an annual golf outing named after Duke.” Duke Slater (1989-1966) moved to Clinton as a teenager in 1911 from Normal, Ill. He led Clinton High School to two state championships in 1913 and 1914. Duke attended the University of Iowa and led them to a national championship in 1921. He would go on to play 10 years in the NFL, while also obtaining his law license. “For whom the scholarship will go to, we are focusing on trailblazing leaders who excel in and out of the classroom and the athletic fields,” committee chair Gary Delacy said. “The scholarship will require students to reflect on Duke’s legacy and show why their life story and their trajectory reflect Duke’s story.” A mockup of the Duke slater memorial statue to be placed at Clinton High School this fall. After graduating from Clinton High, Slater attended the University of Iowa and earned three All-Big Ten selections, 1919-21. He was named a first team All-American in 1921 after Iowa’s national championship season, and joined the National Football League in 1922, becoming the first African-American lineman in NFL history, according to the website dedicated to the statue project. Slater played in the NFL for 10 years (first for the Rock Island Independents in 1922-26) and achieved All-Pro status six times. He earned his law degree from Iowa in 1928 and practiced law in Chicago while still playing in the NFL. He became an assistant district attorney and an assistant Illinois commerce commissioner after retiring from football. Slater was elected as the second African-American judge on the Cook County Municipal Court in Chicago in 1948, and elevated to the Cook County Superior Court in 1960, becoming the first African-American to serve on that court. Moved to the Circuit Court of Cook County in 1964, where he served until his death in 1966. Slater played 10 years in the National Football League, including for the Rock Island Independents from 1922 to 1926. Duke was named to the inaugural class of the Iowa High School Football Hall of Fame in 1980. He was inducted as the first and only African-American in the inaugural class of the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951, and elected to the centennial class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. Slater became the namesake of the football field at the University of Iowa when it was named Duke Slater Field in his honor in 2021. In Clinton, the Duke Slater statue is in the final stages of being cast, created by Brodin Studios in Minnesota. It will be finished sometime this summer, and there is a planned unveiling for the first home football game this fall. A bronze law enforcement statue done by Brodin Studios. “The statue is life sized, bronze,” said committee member Matt Parbs. “It’s been amazing to see the updates and see Duke come alive. The firm is great to work with. Locally, Paul Dotterweich has led the charge with Josh Mussman on the pocket park. Amazing work by all. “The vision is that every Clinton High student for a century and all the visiting students walk by Duke and realize their paths are not set, they set them,” Parbs added. Tickets for the May 9 fundraiser are $25, and a table is $200. To make reservations, email Deb Deters at debra.deters@csdkq.org or call 563-243-7540, extension 7022. There is also an online option to purchase tickets HERE. For more information about the statue, Duke, and the scholarship, click HERE.
	Iowa Attorney General warning of after-storm scammers Scams can be reported to the Iowa Attorney General's office.
	Davenport Assistant City Attorney Brian Heyer to retire City of Davenport Assistant City Attorney Brian Heyer is retiring effective May 1.
	What's ahead at Freight House Farmers' Market Vendors from all around the QCA will be out to show off and sell their local products, and it all starts this weekend! Executive director Missy Carter spoke with Our Quad Cities News about what to expect at the Freight House Farmers' Market. For more information, click here.
	The Last Picture House debuts rooftop lounge The rooftop lounge will feature a full bar, a fire pit and plenty of seating along with a river view.
	Get ready to 'bug out' at NEST Cafe during an evening of edible insects World renowned Chef Joseph Yoon will join NEST on May 11 for an educational evening tasting some Midwest favorites with an insect twist.
	Rock Island police announces interim chief of police Deputy Chief of Police Tim McCloud has been appointed interim police chief of the Rock Island Police Department.
	Moline's Riverside Riverslide pool to open Memorial Day weekend Riverside Riverslide, with three new water slides, a lazy river and a splash pad, officially opens Memorial Day weekend.
	ISP names Chicago man suspect in high-speed chase through Walcott A 32-year-old Chicago man is being held in connection with a high-speed chase through Walcott, according to court records. Prince Young faces a felony charge of eluding - speed over 25 mph over the limit, court records show. Prince Young (Scott County Jail) About 6:44 p.m. Sunday, Clinton County relayed information to Iowa State Patrol about a suspect vehicle involved in large-scale fuel thefts, court records say. Clinton County advised a black Ford truck with Illinois plates was southbound on 130th Avenue from Wheatland and was heading toward Scott County, according to arrest affidavits. They later advised that the truck continued south on Y40/60th Ave in Scott County. An Iowa State Trooper was on 60th Avenue in Walcott and proceeded north to try to locate it. Clinton County said that the truck was involved in a recent theft and later advised that they would likely have felony charges, affidavits show. "As I approached the intersection of 60th Avenue and Highway 130, I observed a black truck southbound on 60th Avenue approaching Highway 130," the trooper writes in affidavits. The truck "was traveling at a high rate of speed and failed to obey the posted stop sign at this intersection. This violation was not provoked by law enforcement presence. The vehicle continued south on 60th Avenue and was heading toward Walcott. I turned around and attempted to catch up to the vehicle in order to initiate a stop for the stop sign violation." The truck accelerated to speeds near 95 mph in a posted 55 mph zone. "Once I caught up to the vehicle, I had my full emergency lights and siren activated," the trooper writes in affidavits. "The vehicle failed to stop. " The truck proceeded into a 30-mph zone within the city limits of Walcott at speeds up to 94 mph, police allege in affidavits. The truck made an illegal pass on the left as it went over Interstate 80 and drove toward oncoming traffic, then merged eastbound onto Interstate 80. The truck continued at speeds of up to 95 mph in posted 70-mph zones and posted 65-mph zones, affidavits show, making erratic passes to include utilizing the right shoulder to pass traffic. Stop sticks were successfully deployed near the 298 Mile Marker and flattened the front passenger side tire. Still, the truck continued to flee. The vehicle took the exit for Middle Road (301 mile marker) and reduced speed. "I exercised intentional vehicle contact to try and bring the chase to an end as we approached a very busy area," the officer writes in affidavits. The truck came to a stop on the exit ramp to Middle Road and the driver was taken into custody without incident, affidavits show. The driver was identified by his Illinois driver's license as Prince Young. Clinton County investigators are handling the large scale fuel theft investigation and charges are pending in that investigation, affidavits say. The vehicle was towed by Teos Towing and Recovery with a hold in place for further investigation. Young was being held Monday on $5,000 bond in Scott County Jail, and is set for a preliminary hearing May 19 in Scott County Court.
	Freight House Farmers Market opens Saturday The market will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
	Thomson prison on lockdown Prison authorities claim a firearm may have been brought inside.
	Niabi Zoo opens Tuesday, Apr. 30 Niabi Zoo is re-opening its doors to the Quad Cities on April 30 after record-breaking snowstorms damaged numerous exhibits.

Tuesday, April 30th, 2024

Monday, April 29th, 2024