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

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024
	Davenport City Council advances discussions for high-tech data center project The City of Davenport is considering submitting an application to the State of Iowa High Quality Jobs Program to build a large, high-tech data center campus within city limits at the northwest corner of Hillandale Road and Enterprise Way, according to city documents.
	Police looking for 13-year-old Moline boy The Moline Police Department is asking for help in finding Kyrese A. Rogers, 13, of Moline.
Wednesday, May 1st, 2024
	Governor responds to law enforcement concerns about new law Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds responded to criticism from law enforcement and immigrant groups about new law that makes it a crime for people to be in the state if they have previously been deported or denied entry.
	New cannabis shop may be on its way to Kewanee Kewanee City Council is set to vote on whether or not to approve a special-use permit for a proposed dispensary in town.
	The inspiration behind Ridgewood softball’s historic season The Spartans are ranked number one in Illinois in Class 1A by Max Preps and breaking just about every record in the program’s history.
	Hope Initiative hands outs 43,000 pounds of turkey in Galesburg, runs out Hope Initiative planned on having a second day of handing out turkey but completely ran out Wednesday afternoon.
	Sherrard teachers reach new labor agreement with the school district Approximately 200 teachers and support staff will be covered under the new agreement.
	Traffic slowed on I-74 bridge due to geese crossing Two officers escorted the geese to safety.
	Latino community rallies against Iowa law affecting undocumented immigrants Members of the Latino community and their supporters rallied in Davenport against a new law in Iowa. Governor Kim Reynolds signed Senate File 2340 into law last month. It classifies being an undocumented immigrant as an aggravated misdemeanor. People at the rally call the legislation unconstitutional and say it goes against American values. Republicans behind Senate File 2340 argue it addresses the failures of President Biden on immigration. For more information, click here.
	OSHA issues 3 serious violations after fatal accident at Milan John Deere facility 55-year-old Anthony "Tony" LeCleir of Davenport died a few weeks after he was struck by a workplace vehicle, reports show.
	2 people arrested in connection to drug induced death investigation, deputies say Two people were arrested as part of an ongoing investigation involving a drug induced death at the end of 2023.
	Vision To Learn helps QC students see clearer Some elementary school students in Davenport will be seeing things differently now, thanks to new eyeglasses. Members of the Vision To Learn program marked the end of its first school year with a glasses celebration at Fillmore Elementary School. A partnership between United Way Quad Cities and Vision To Learn provided eye exams and glasses for students at title one schools in Davenport. There was no charge for students or their families. Grants from organizations like the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation made it possible. Vision to Learn provided nearly 2,000 kids with vision exams and two pairs of glasses to 515 students in the QCA. For more information, click here.
	‘Yay It’s Glasses Day!’: United Way Quad Cities gives elementary school students glasses Elementary school students were given glasses as part of United Way Quad Cities’ Vision to Learn program in conjunction with the Davenport Community School District. Those in charge said that 30 students at Fillmore Elementary received glasses.
	OSHA issues 3 serious violations after fatal accident at Milan John Deere facility 55-year-old Anthony "Tony" LeCleir of Davenport died a few weeks after he was struck by a workplace vehicle, reports show.
	14th Judicial Circuit of Illinois names first black woman associate judge Tionn Fambro Carter has now reached a milestone that no other black woman has been able to within the 14th Judicial Circuit of Illinois. Carter was appointed Associate Judge of the circuit in April, making her the first black woman to hold the position.
	Central DeWitt students take the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Some students in the QCA took a chilling challenger for a heartwarming reason. Brave souls from Central DeWitt took the Cool School Polar Plunge and raised more than $15,000 for Special Olympics Iowa. Every student who raised $25 or more got to leap into the water of a portable plunge pool. Homerooms that raised at least $250 got to choose a staff member to take the plunge. The Central DeWitt Community School District supports Special Olympics Unified Sports, which includes students of all abilities. To donate to Central DeWitt's Cool School Polar Plunge, click here.
	City of Davenport advances discussions for high-tech data center project The City of Davenport is considering submitting an application to the State of Iowa High Quality Jobs Program to build a large, high-tech data center campus within city limits at the northwest corner of Hillandale Road and Enterprise Way, according to city documents.
	New app allows Henderson County residents to send in anonymous tips to police The P3 Tips app is available on iPhone and Android.
	Gov. Reynolds signs income tax cut bill, says there’s room for more Wednesday, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed new income tax cuts into law. At the beginning of the year, Iowa will join 13 other states with a flat income tax.
	News 8 meteorologist Morgan Strackbein introduces viewers to The Beast at 'Touch-a-Truck' event 25 organizations were around the show off their trucks and what they do for the community.
	OSHA issues 3 serious citations after worker hit by vehicle at Milan John Deere facility 55-year-old Tony LeCleir of Davenport died a few weeks after he was hit by the vehicle.
	Whiteside County firefighters test skills in training Smoke filled a house, and Rock Falls and Sterling firefighters bust in to save the lives of trapped people. It looks real but it's a training exercise. (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) The training is a way for firefighters to team up for an emergency exercise and improve their search and rescue skills. "It just helps us hone our skills that much more," Rock Falls Fire Department Deputy Chief Kyle Sommers said. "When our firefighters respond to real-life emergencies, they're going to be better prepared to handle those instances." The training took place at an empty house in Rock Falls. Next door to the home, the Whiteside County Health Department looks to expand. The health department bought the home and the land and has big plans for the extra space. In the meantime, the health department teamed up with the Rock Falls Fire Department to let them use the house for the training exercise. (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) "We will be building just under 2,000 square feet to bring on optometry services," Whiteside County Health Department and Community Health Clinic CEO Cheryl Lee said, . "We really needed the parking. We were able to work with the city of Rock Falls to rezone. We purchased the home next door, and we were able to rezone it for parking, which was part of the collaboration with the fire department. Hopefully in the late May, early June, we will be able to get that demolished." It's just one way the health department is expanding its reach to community members. Lee says since COVID, the need for services is much higher. "We just brought on oral surgery. Now we will be able to bring on optometry, so it's really that patient center medical home and that comprehensive care that we can give our community especially those at the highest need who don't have insurance, or any other place to go," Lee said. "I think we are getting a little more modern, a little more updated, and it's one more thing we can do to accommodate our patients." (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) The Rock Falls Fire Department is grateful for the opportunity to use the house before it's demolished. Like the health department, it's looking to expand it's training program in the future, especially following a tragedy. "We started doing this after the line-of-duty death of Captain Garrett Ramos from Sterling fire," Sommers said. "We formed a joint committee where we started discussing what we would like to see from a joint-training facility. " They hope to get something more permanent. "We are planning that right now," Sommers said. "It will be located in the Industrial Park in the city of Rock Falls. For right now, until that is constructed, we use these temporary sites and we use them as much as we can before they are slated for demolition." The Rock Falls and Sterling Fire Departments are currently working on designs for its joint-training facility. They are hoping the facility is operational in a few years.
	Breast cancer screening should start at 40, new guidelines say The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force released new recommendations on Tuesday advising women to begin testing for breast cancer at a much younger age.
	A look inside Iron Tee Golf Iron Tee Golf is the first of its kind in the Quad Cities and they’re getting ready to officially open its doors.
	Central DeWitt schools host polar plunge The event raised money for the district's Special Olympics athletes.
	Logan Lee reflects on being picked in the NFL draft You can catch the full interview with the new Steeler on The Score Sunday.
	House fire disrupts Rock Falls fire department training The Rock Falls Fire Department started their Wednesday with a training. A call later about a house fire put that practice into action.
	United Way Quad Cities gives free glasses to more than 500 students The Vision to Learn program has also provided over 1,900 no-cost vision screenings.
	Rock Island County Veterans Assistance Commission dedicates new home Rock Island County Veterans Assistance Commission has a new place to call home. Managers celebrated the grand opening of the new space in Rock Valley Plaza on Blackhawk Rd. The commission's superintendent says helping veterans is close to his heart. He says the bigger space will make it easier to help veterans and their families. Veteran service officers help with disability claims, healthcare enrollment, veterans survivor benefits, rental assistance, food security and utilities. For more information, click here.
	Rock Falls Fire Department training disrupted by house fire The health department donated a house for firefighters to practice saving victims in smoky conditions. The training was derailed by a real fire across town.
	United Way Quad Cities gives free glasses to more than 500 students The Vision to Learn program has also provided over 1,900 no-cost vision screenings.
	This Week: 2nd Annual East Moline Main Street Cinco De Mayo Taco & Margarita Festival News 8' Jon Diaz sits down with Patricia Hansen and Graciela Macias, organizers of the 2nd Annual East Moline Main Street Cinco De Mayo Taco & Margarita Festival.
	Couple to restore historic Galesburg home to former glory A couple is working to restore a historic Galesburg home to its former glory. The home, originally owned by W. S. Purington in the 1890's, figures into Galesburg's rich history. Purington was the co-owner of the Purington Brick Company in Galesburg, which was once the largest producer of brick pavers in the world, in the early 1900's. The home has since been a designated landmark by the City of Galesburg Landmark Commission. The new owners of the historical home say they want the community to benefit from their restorations. "We'd been looking for about a year to restore a historic home," homeowner Jakki Pettitt said. "We happened to find this house. We knew the minute we walked in that we wanted it." After 20 years in Arizona, the Pettitt's made it all the way to Illinois to restore a historical house for their retirement plans. "My husband is involved in architecture," Pettitt said. "We've been restoring homes and doing our own DIY stuff our whole marriage for 33 years." The Pettitts want to make the historical home a bed and breakfast and a tourist destination that everyone can enjoy. First, they need to take care of all the issues that they faced when they bought the house. "Somebody had enough love to build the house this way," Pettitt said. "We hope to be able to capture that love and bring it back to where it came from. Purington Brick Factory was just right down the road." "People came back from World War II saying Purington bricks were in Paris," homeowner Alex Pettitt said. "They saw them all over the world. This was was the home base for the man who created that little piece of history." The Pettitts can't restore the house by themselves. They say community carpenters and plumbers have offered to help them during their initial cleanout of the property. "That's been the neat part," Pettitt said. "We just asked for the help, and they said 'sure; we would be happy to.' They came in droves, it was neat." The home may not be finished now, but the future is looking bright for the over 130-year-old home. "We want to do more with the community," Pettitt said. "We want to be able to have Santa visit on Christmas and take pictures with the kids. We want this to be something that is given back to the community so they can feel like they can come in and experience the history, too." The Pettitts say the house should be prepared to welcome visitors from all over the area to community events starting this holiday season.
	This Week: Congresswoman Marianette Miller-Meeks discusses abortion, oral contraception and IVF News 8's Jon Diaz asks Congresswoman Marianette Miller-Meeks about her position on abortion, oral contraception and IVF.
	QCA animal shelters reducing adoption fees for 'Empty the Shelters' event Shelters will offer reduced adoption fees from May 1 to May 15.
	This Week: Congresswoman Marianette Miller-Meeks highlights her first two terms News 8's Jon Diaz sits down to chat with Congresswoman Marianette Miller-Meeks to learn what her policy would be focused on if re-elected.
	Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire launches 'Women in History Teas' series The first of several tea parties will be held on May 11. Attendees will learn about The Harvey Girls, who were credited with 'taming' the Wild West.
	2 cicada broods to emerge at the same time in Illinois for the first time in 200 years The emergence is expected to happen around mid-to-late May.
	Report: Tyson Foods dumped 52.7 million pounds of pollutants into Illinois waterways from 2018-2022 The report says Tyson dumped 52.7 million pounds of pollutants into Illinois waterways between 2018 and 2022. 5.2 million pounds of pollutants came from Iowa plants.
	Raise a glass to QC Ale Trail turning 5 QC Craft Beer Week returns on May 10-17, 2024, marking the fifth anniversary of the QC Ale Trail. Established in 2019 through a partnership between Visit Quad Cities and regional craft breweries, the QC Ale Trail is an immersive self-guided tour spanning both sides of the Mississippi River that showcases the vibrant craft brewery scene, according to a Wednesday Visit QC release. Participants can check in at participating breweries with a QC Ale Trail passport to receive free prizes from Visit Quad Cities while enjoying local brews and meeting fellow craft beer fans. “QC Craft Beer Week never disappoints and is a great reminder of how fortunate we are in the Quad Cities region to have such a thriving craft beer community,” said Dave Herrell, president/CEO of Visit Quad Cities. “We are thrilled to commemorate five incredible years of the QC Ale Trail. Our QC Ale Trail continues to promote and bind together the Quad Cities craft beer scene which adds value to tourism products, visitor experience and resident pride.” During the first five years of the Ale Trail, participating locations have expanded from 12 to 16, attracting nearly 500 craft beer enthusiasts from 25 states who have visited four or more locations or completed the trail. Throughout the week, organizers encourage visitors and Quad Citizens to support breweries across the QC. Follow Visit Quad Cities on social media and join the QC Ale Trail Facebook group to stay updated on QC Craft Beer Week specials, giveaways, tappings and events. QC Craft Beer Week (Visit Quad Cities) QC Craft Beer Week participating breweries include 5 Cities Brewing, Bent River Brewery, Crawford Brew Works, Midwest Ale Works, Radical Effect Brewerks, Rebels & Lions Brewing, Stompbox Brewing, Twin Span Brewing and Wake Brewing (be sure to check back as more locations are added). Scheduled events are: Friday, May 10: QC Ale Trail Five-Year Anniversary Pop-Up Party at Front Street Taproom in Davenport, 4-7 p.m. (Stick around for free trivia beginning at 7 p.m.) Saturday, May 11: Quad Cities Beer Battle on the Belle Cruise (12:30-3 p.m., Celebration Belle departs Moline dock promptly at 12:30 p.m.) Friday, May 17: Mugz Homebrew Collaboration Tapping at Endless Brews in Davenport (Time TBD) Saturday, May 18: Mugz Homebrew Collaboration Tapping at Sallie’s in Rock Island (Time TBD) Saturday, May 18: Shops with Hops in downtown LeClaire, 2-5 p.m. The Front Street Taproom., 421 W. River Drive, Davenport, overlooks LeClaire Park and the Mississippi River. QC Craft Beer Week was created in 2011 by Mugz, a local home brewing club. Bryan Schmid, president of Mugz, says the annual event is a great opportunity for homebrewers and professional brewers to bounce ideas off each other and try something outside their comfort zone. “It's exciting to see the variety that everyone comes up with and have all those ideas on tap at once.” To learn more about the Ale Trail, click HERE.
	Hiney Heroes to take part in ‘World’s Largest Diaper Driver,’ organization says Hiney Heroes, a non-profit diaper bank based in Rock Island says they’re joining many diaper banks across the country to participate in the “World’s Largest Diaper Drive.”
	Mississippi Valley Growers Association hosts first farmers' market of the season MVGA vendors will be at North Park Mall on Wednesday and Thursday mornings.
	Shop 'til you drop at Rock Island Spring Community Garage Sale and Vendor Fair Spring has sprung, and the Rock Island garage sale is sure to have something for everyone! Dan Gleason from Rock Island Parks and Recreation joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Spring Community Garage Sale and Vendor Fair. For more information, click here.
	'Be Downtown' on June 1 for family fun in Bettendorf The Downtown Bettendorf Organization (DBO) is holding the free Be Downtown outdoor event on Saturday, June 1 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the 15th St. Landing, 15th Street and State Street. The event is perfect for families, featuring live music, food trucks, multiple bags tournaments with cash prizes, children’s activities and more. Live music will be provided in two-hour sets throughout the day, starting at 12 p.m., by area bands Been There Done That, Threat Level Midnight and Heads in Motion. Honor Among Wrestling (HAW) pro wrestling starts at 2:05 p.m. Verde will offer food and an outdoor bar for alcohol and other beverage sales. Food trucks will be on site from 12 – 6 p.m. and include Smokin' Goodness and Wolfe It Down Pizza. The K&K Family Fun Zone will be open from 12 - 6 p.m. with bounce houses, bubble stations and a hands-on science experiment. Attendees should bring lawn chairs. The event also features two bags tournaments at 12 and 3 p.m. Bags will be run by a 4-City Cornhole Club. Registration will be held on-site one hour before each tournament. Each tournament will have cash prizes of $300 for 1st, $200 for 2nd and $100 for 3rd place finisher. Players should download the Scoreholio App and get arrive early to register. Be Downtown event line-up: 11 a.m. – Sign-up for Bags Tournament #1 Noon – K&K Family Fun Zone opens, food trucks open Noon – Bags tournament #1 Noon – BTDT 2 p.m. – BTDT 2:05 p.m. – HAW Pro Wrestling 3 p.m. – Bags Tournament #2 3:05 p.m. – HAW Pro Wrestling3:10 p.m. – Threat Level Midnight5:10 p.m. – Threat Level Midnight5:15 p.m. – HAW pro wrestling6:15 p.m. – HAW pro wrestling6:30 p.m. – Heads in Motion 9 p.m. – Heads in Motion On-street parking will be available on State and Grant Streets plus at multiple lots in downtown Bettendorf, including: 15th St. and Grant St. (TBK Bank building lot) available after 1 p.m. 18th St. and Mississippi St. (Asbury Methodist Church lot) 18th St. and Grant St. (City of Bettendorf lot) Bettendorf City Hall Street parking Motorcycle parking will be available on 15th Street Be Downtown coincides with the City of Bettendorf’s 121st birthday and the city will have a fire truck, police squad cars, snowplows, and recycling trucks on display for visitors to see. There will also be giveaways and Mayor Bob Gallagher will lead everyone in singing “Happy Birthday” to Bettendorf. “Summer events in Bettendorf are part of what makes our city so much fun, and the Downtown Bettendorf Organization knows how to throw a party!” said Jeff Reiter, Assistant City Administrator. “We are looking forward to bringing out some of our awesome vehicles and equipment for kids and families to interact with, and we will have so many cool things to hand out that the kids are going to love! Be Downtown and Bettendorf’s birthday celebration are natural fits together, and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of all the festivities.” Click here for more details on the Downtown Bettendorf Organization.
	Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire launches 'Women in History Teas' series The first of several tea parties will be held on May 11. Attendees will learn about The Harvey Girls, who were credited with 'taming' the Wild West.
	City of LeClaire and other QCA cities featured in new Iowa PBS show The City of LeClaire was featured in a new Iowa PBS show called Road Trip Iowa.
	Mississippi River Distilling Company hosts ‘Road Trip Iowa’ watch party “Road Trip Iowa” airs on Iowa PBS at 6:30 p.m. and highlights the state’s portion of the Great River Road, which includes Cody Road District in LeClaire and Figge Museum in Davenport.
	Quad Cities farmers markets open for summer season Residents of the Quad Cities can enjoy homegrown produce and handmade foods from local farmers markets, starting this weekend.
	Davenport Central senior receives 2024 Kathryn Bell Tate Scholarship A Davenport Central High School senior was awarded the 2024 Kathryn Bell Tate Scholarship in a surprise announcement, according to Davenport Schools Foundation officials.
	Davenport man arrested on weapons charges A Davenport man is in the Scott County Jail after he was arrested after a shooting in Davenport yesterday Davenport Police Officers responded to the 1400 block of West Fourth Street for a report of shots fired on April 30 at about 10:37 p.m. According to the criminal complaint, Danny Young, 59, and another person were in a mutual physical altercation in front of the residence. The fight was broken up and Young went to his backyard to retrieve a black handgun. Young allegedly returned to the front of the home with the firearm and fired a single shot at the victim while he sat in a car. The shot struck the passenger's side of the car. The car was occupied at the time of the shooting by a driver, the victim in the front seat and a back seat passenger. The complaint says Young knew he wasn't allowed to possess a firearm because he was a felon, with convictions dating back over 20 years. Danny Young (Scott County Sheriff's Office) Young was arrested on charges of intimidation with a dangerous weapon, a class C felony, going armed with intent and control of a firearm by a felon, which are both class D felonies . He is being held in the Scott County Jail, with a preliminary hearing on May 10, according to court records.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: GARY LOPEZ, 41, 5’7”, 175 pounds, brown hair, brown eyes. Rock Island County warrant for probation violation on 2021 charge for armed violence. JOHN RULE JR., 26, 5’10”, 170 pounds, brown hair, hazel eyes. Moline Police warrant for felony retail theft and Rock Island County warrant for failure to appear on charge of possession of stolen firearm. Gary Lopez (L) and John Rule Jr. (Crime Stoppers) You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at (309) 762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	34,000 pounds of turkey up for grabs at Hope Initiative in Galesburg The Hope Initiative in Galesburg is giving away 1,512 cases of frozen turkey, totaling 34,000 pounds, during its two-day Turkey Drive Thru.
	40 years go quick for The Lettermen singer Donovan Tea has performed with everyone from Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, to Ray Charles and Tony Bennett. But the 69-year-old Texas native has made his career for 40 years now as one-third of The Lettermen, an indestructible three-man singing group that's romanced audiences for seven decades. "To be honest, we haven't quite come back since COVID to our regular schedule,” Tea said in a Wednesday phone interview. “I don't know if that's with our demographics or just the way things are.” The current Lettermen lineup is Rob Gulack, left, Donovan Tea, and Bobby Poynton. Pre-COVID, The Lettermen would average about 100 concerts a year, but the last couple of years that’s been down to 50-60 a year, including two performances coming up May 13, 2024 at Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse. This year is the 40th anniversary of Tea being in the trio, which has changed membership often over the years. “It's gone by quickly, I can tell you,” he said. Since 1961, The Lettermen have recorded over 75 albums — 18 certified gold, with a myriad of hits including "When I Fall In Love," "Put Your Head On My Shoulder," "Goin’ Out Of My Head," "Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You," and "Hurt So Bad." The Circa shows will be 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., Monday, May 13, preceded by plated meals. The matinee is already sold out. The Lettermen have performed at Circa just about every year the past 38 years. The interior at Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse, 1828 3rd Ave., Rock Island. “We enjoy being there and Denny and the entire staff,” Tea said Wednesday of owner Denny Hitchcock. “It's just wonderful to work there. It's an iconic establishment." "One of the fun things for us is that we never know what our our backdrop is gonna be because we perform on the stage right in front of the set of whatever show they happen to be doing at that time,” he added. “We've had some interesting backdrops, but it's always fun and the people have a good time and we enjoy ourselves very much.” Struck by stars Tea was able to perform with big celebrities in the ‘70s, as lead singer for The Young Americans, who opened for everybody, including Pat Boone and Sammy Davis, Jr. He tap danced with Fred Astaire and sang backup for Bing Crosby on the classic song "White Christmas." “It was like going to college for the Young Americans, for what I wanted to go into opening for all these people,” he said. “And I would always talk to them before or after the show, ask for recommendations, hints, opinions, just pick their brain. And it was interesting. “I would ask many, many questions, but I would always ask, you know, what I, what do I need to do to get where you're at and every single one of them gave me basically the same answer,” Tea recalled. “It was, I don't know how I got here. I just do the best you can. It's 75% luck and 25% combination of talent and tenacity.” Donovan Tea, left, joined The Lettermen in 1984. “It’s not just luck but just being prepared if you get an opportunity and I've been very fortunate to have been in this business as long as I have and, and very grateful,” he said. Tea was also pleasantly surprised at how normal and down to earth many big stars were. “So many of them were kind to me,” he said. “Tony Bennett was very, very kind to me. Ray Charles gave me great, great advice. Bing Crosby, of course, was iconic and, and working with Fred Astaire was a dream. I'm really a below-average dancer. But we had a good choreographer and it was for the Bing Crosby Christmas special. So we had plenty of rehearsal and they were all just very gracious, very professional. It taught me that you don't have to be an egomaniac. You can be a regular person and still go on stage or on television and do a good job.” From Vegas to Lettermen Before joining the group, Tea was performing in Las Vegas, as the lead singer in the Lido show. “It was a great, great opportunity for me to get seen,” he recalled. “And as it turned out, the Lettermen were performing across the street at the Flamingo, came across the street to see the show and saw me quite by accident. They kept me in mind and a couple of years later when they had a group change, they gave me a call, asked me to come out to L.A. and sing with them, see if we had a good blend. “And again, it's gonna be 40 years and it's gone by fast,” Tea said. Besides performing, he is a prolific published songwriter. Many of his songs have been recorded, and some have been included in Lettermen performances. The Lettermen will do two shows at Circa '21 Monday, May 13, 2024. Rob Gulack joined the trio in 2019, just a few months before COVID shutdowns, which forced The Lettermen off the road for a year. “He’s a great person and a great, great singer and it's always tough to have a group change,” Tea sad. “He fit right in and he brings a lot to the group and Bobby Poynton who’s also in the group is great. It’s kind of a marriage, you have to get along pretty well and walk together and so far things are going well.” On Feb. 24, 2020, history in the Lettermen legacy was made when they were honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tea said they went from that high, three weeks later to "oblivion." The Lettermen’s longevity is due not just to quality of their performances, but the singers’ personalities and connection with audiences, Tea said. “You wanna make your audience laugh, you wanna make them cry, happy tears, you wanna pace your show so it's not ballad, ballad, ballad,” he said. “You want to break it up. The Lettermen are perfect since all the Lettermen have always been three soloists.” The concerts are a mix of older and newer songs, slower and uptempo, three-part harmonies and solo numbers. The Lettermen repertoire includes arrangements of "Never Enough from the hit film "The Greatest Showman": a "Sugar" medley ("I Can't Help Myself," "Sugar," How Sweet It Is") and a "Happy" medley ("Happy," "You've Made Me So Very Happy," "Happy Together"). “We pride ourselves in pacing a show that is fun, and enjoyable,” Tea said. “We try to do the kind of show that we go see. When I go to see somebody, I wanna feel like I was thoroughly entertained and that I got to know the entertainer just a little bit and we try to do that every show we do.” Tickets for the May 13 shows are $61.35 for the 1 p.m. matinee (with a noon lunch), and $67.65 for the 7:15 p.m. show, (with a 6 p.m. dinner), available at the Circa box office (1828 3rd Ave., Rock Island, or at 309-786-7733, ext. 2. For more information on The Lettermen, click HERE.
	Sen. Durbin meets with federal railroad administrator on stalled Quad-Cities passenger rail U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, met with Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose on Tuesday to receive an update on the Chicago-Quad-Cities passenger rail project.
	Two arrested in connection to December death in rural Sherrard The two were arrested Tuesday on charges of first degree murder and drug induced homicide.
	Run with Carl celebrates 30 Years at 2024 Labor Day run This year's 30th Run with Carl takes place this year on Labor Day, September 2. The race was created after the Schillig family lost their 15-year-old son, Carl, in a car-pedestrian accident and has been a Bettendorf and Pleasant Valley tradition ever since. The family created an annual scholarship for graduating seniors at Bettendorf and Pleasant Valley High Schools with proceeds from the race. Both school foundations took over organizing the race in 2015 and since then, nearly $200,000 has been raised for both school districts. Race start times are: 7:45 a.m. - Children's ½ mile fun run 8:00 a.m. - Memorial service 8:15 a.m. - 5 mile run 8:30 a.m. - 5K run/walk Due to continued construction, all race events will take place at Bettendorf Middle School, 2030 Middle Road, including the post-race party, children’s fun run, and the 5K/5M start and finish line at the light outside the tennis courts on Middle Road. Registration is now open here and there’s an early bird discount through May. Click here to sign up as a volunteer.
	Iowa communities hosting candlelight vigils across the state in opposition to controversial immigration law Quad Cities Interfaith will host a vigil at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Davenport, right off of Main Street. It starts at 6:30 p.m.
	Iowa PBS premiering 'Road Trip Iowa' documentary May 1 Those looking for a watch party can head over to the Mississippi River Distilling Company in LeClaire from 5 to 7 p.m.
	Knox County Sheriff's Office warning of new phone scam Officials say the scammer will call and tell the victim they missed jury duty and that there is a warrant out for their arrest.
	'Looking for Lincoln' program focuses on Effie Afton case The next Looking for Lincoln Conversation will revisit one of his most famous legal cases, with a tie to the Quad Cities. In the Hurd v. Rock Island Bridge Co. (aka the Effie Afton Case), a boat/bridge collision brought the fight of established river interests of St. Louis versus the growing railroad interests of Chicago. The case discussions usually focus on Lincoln’s support of the railroad and new technologies, but recent research shows that might not be accurate. John Lupton and Dr. Samuel Wheeler from the Illinois Supreme Court Historic Preservation Commission will discuss what happened when the Effie Afton riverboat crashed into the first railroad bridge to cross the Mississippi River at Rock Island. The public can watch and participate in this online program on Wednesday, May 8 at 7 p.m. on the Looking for Lincoln YouTube and Facebook video channels. Viewers can submit questions for the host to answer at the end of the presentation. The program will be recorded and available on the Looking for Lincoln Facebook and YouTube video channels. Reservations are not required, and the event is free. “We are proud to host this series of Looking for Lincoln conversations,” said Sarah Watson, Executive Director of Looking for Lincoln. “These live, digital programs cover a range of topics that depict the life and times in the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area. Few individuals have so profoundly influenced American history as did Abraham Lincoln. Millions around the world are inspired by the story of Lincoln's rise from humble beginnings to President of the United States, his qualities of integrity and courage and his decisive leadership traits that carried a fragile nation through one of its most trying periods.” For more information about the Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition and the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, click here.
	Scott County Jail overcrowding sends Davenport double homicide suspect to Muscatine Crowded conditions in the Scott County has prompted the move of one of the suspects in a Davenport double murder to Muscatine.
	The Arc/ Quad Cities Disability Coalition hosting food drive in May The Arc of the Quad Cities and the Quad Cities Disability Awareness Coalition are holding a two-week community-wide food drive to address food insecurity, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service to others. The Coalition is made up of disability service providers who will administer the food drive by picking up food items and dropping them off at Quad City food pantries. Donations can be dropped off at the locations in the table below between Tuesday, May 7 and Tuesday, May 21. Donations can be left in collection boxes at the sites. “This is a true community-wide food drive,” says Sarah Wright, Chief Development Officer for The Arc. “This project is unique in that it enjoys a wide capacity because of the wide-ranging partnerships we’ve been able to establish. We’d like to give special thanks to Hy-Vee, all the local libraries, and parks and recreation departments for addressing food insecurity and for embracing inclusive volunteering.” For more information on the Disabilities Awareness Coalition, click here. For more information on The Arc of the Quad Cities, click here.
	Lee Enterprises adds Chief Transformation and Commercial Officer Les Ottolenghi is responsible for modernizing Lee’s IT infrastructure and directing accelerators to Lee’s digital transformation strategy.
	May flowers delivered to truck-eating bridge A semi hauling flowers was the latest victim of the truck-eating bridge on Brady Street in Davenport on Wednesday. The driving wasn't perfect, but the timing was -- it's May 1. And although the recent showers to end April had nothing to do with it, the flowers arrived all the same. Not to their final destination -- by the way, the driver was uninjured, as usual -- but instead an unscheduled stop that so many make when they don't observe height restrictions. Flowers can be seen inside the peeled-open trailer of a semi that hit the truck-eating bridge on Brady Street on May 1, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, Our Quad Cities News) It's 11-foot-8, for future reference. (There are signs... and flashing lights.) You can see all of our photos of the various truck-eating bridges through the years by clicking here. The truck-eating bridge on Brady Street was hit by another semi on May 1, 2024. (Danielle Davis, Our Quad Cities News)
	Milan artist honored with Illinois fellowship One Quad Cities artist is among 17 throughout Illinois to be honored with the Illinois Arts Council (IAC) 2024 Artist Fellowship Award (AFA). The IAC AFAs are $15,000 awards to Illinois artists in recognition of their outstanding work and commitment within the arts. This year, the IAC awarded 17 Illinois artists with fellowships totaling $255,000. Finalist awards of $1,500 were also awarded to 13 Illinois artists for a total of $19,500, according to a Wednesday release. “Individual artists fuel our state’s creativity, communities, and economy,” IAC executive director Joshua Davis-Ruperto said in the release. “They tell stories, spark conversations, pass on traditions, and provide inspiration. A textile artwork by Nicole Davis of Milan, one of the 17 Illinois artists honored by the Illinois Arts Council. “IAC Fellowship Awards acknowledge, support, and celebrate the highest quality artistic work being created in Illinois,” he said. “The 2024 IAC Fellows were selected for their remarkable artistic practice and their commitment to Illinois’ communities – both within their specific regions and discipline at large. The IAC congratulates each of these extraordinary individuals.” “These artists represent the highest levels of craft for their respective disciplines, and I’m proud to uplift their work through IAC’s Fellowship Awards,” Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said in the release. “I look forward to seeing how they will continue to represent their communities across Illinois and grow their work, and I congratulate each of them on the award.” The Artist Fellowship Program offered funding in seven artistic disciplines. This year's Fellowship and Finalist Award recipients were selected from 302 Illinois-based creative artists working in Ethnic and Folk Arts, Crafts, and Visual Arts -- which includes Visual-Based Arts (Installation, Mixed Media, Painting, Graphic & Drawing), Photography, and Sculpture. Quad Cities winner In the Crafts category, Nicole Davis of Milan was named a $15,000 fellowship winner. She’s a visual artist and educator. Nicole Davis of Milan Having served as a special education teacher for 21 years, Davis pivoted to pursue a career in art, according to her bio on the IAC website. In 2020, she graduated with honors from the University of Iowa with an MFA degree in painting and drawing. Her current art practice encompasses textiles, photography, and painting. Her artwork uses the energy embodied time-honored materials to address issues related to her lived experience as a Black woman. Black feminist theory, memory, and identity are themes deeply rooted in her work. Davis was honored with numerous scholarships and fellowships in pursuit of her graduate work and has had residencies at Ox Bow. She has been a visiting critic and/or given lectures at institutions including: Cornell College, Drake University, Divine Word College, and the Figge Art Museum. Her artwork has been shown throughout the Midwest, at the Soo Visual Arts Center, Minneapolis; Koehnline Museum in Skokie; Legion Arts in Cedar Rapids; South Bend Museum of Art in South Bend, Ind., and Freeport Art Museum, Freeport, Ill. A 2020 textile artwork by Davis. In 2020, Davis was selected to be an Artivism Fellow for the Broadway Advocacy Coalition. She is currently an Art Instructor and Gallery Coordinator for Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. The IAC is proud to be able to provide Illinois artists with unrestricted funds in these awards that will support their creative endeavors and artistic growth, according to Wednesday’s release. The mission of the Illinois Arts Council is “To build a strong, creative, and connected Illinois through the arts.” The Agency recognizes that Illinois’ artists are an essential component of the social fabric and economic vibrancy of the state. The Artist Fellowship Awardees and Finalists are representative of the diversity found in the arts across Illinois and represent a diversity of age, gender, and geographic locations. For brief bios on all the Artist Fellowship Awardees, click HERE.
	Friends of Bettendorf Parks & Recreation hosts Spring Senior Golf Tour The Friends of Bettendorf Parks & Recreation invite seniors to join their annual Spring Senior Golf Cart Tour on Monday, May 20th. There is no rain date. The Spring Senior Golf Cart Tour is held twice a year, in the spring and fall, and travels along the Duck Creek Recreation Trail from Palmer Hills Golf Course to Duck Creek Park in Davenport and back to Palmer Hills. Transportation on the trail will be by golf carts provided by Palmer Hills. Carts may be operated by the participants and operators will be provided for those who don’t want to drive. Drivers must be at least 18 years old. The tour lasts about two hours and stops will be made at several sites along the way. Participants can leave at either 10 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Parking is available at Palmer Hills Golf Course, 2999 Middle Road. There is no fee and liquid refreshments will be provided. Registration is required and tours are limited to 70 people each. The deadline to register is May 16. Click here to register. For more information or to register by phone, call the Bettendorf Parks and Recreation Department at (563) 344-4113.
	QC Farmers' Market starts in Rock Island The QC Farmers’ Market is returning to Schwiebert Park in downtown Rock Island for its third season, starting Saturday, May 4, 2024. Featuring homegrown produce, handmade foods and agricultural products, the weekly market is run Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon through November. New and returning vendors will be set up with their fresh local products for sale, and customers will be eligible for drawings to win prizes every hour. The farmers' market runs in Schwiebert Riverfront Park, downtown Rock Island on Saturday mornings May, 4, 2024 through November, weather permitting. “We are thrilled to offer customers an expanded selection of products this year,” said Ian Forslund, president at QC Farmers’ Market and co-owner of Mad Farmer’s Garden in Coal Valley. “New vendors this season will feature locally-grown strawberries, personal care products that feature local agricultural products, and produce grown in urban community gardens. “We are excited to welcome back many vendors too,” said Dylan Parker, QC Farmers’ Market board member and a Rock Island alderman. “Many of our most popular vendors will be returning for another season, including Dailey Farms Goat Milk, Suzanne’s Swiss Bakery, Grateful Graze, Crandall Farms, and The House with the Flowers.” Founded in 2021, QC Farmers’ Market is a cooperative of farmers and producers local to the Quad Cities area. Customers who purchase food and products at the QC Farmers’ Market buy directly from the producer, and all products are homegrown and handmade, without exception. All vendors at the QC Farmers’ Market accept SNAP payment, and thanks to a grant with Experimental Station, Illinois LINK card holders get double their value on every SNAP dollar spent, with matching funds to buy fresh produce and food-bearing plants. Complete List of Vendors for the 2024 Season: African Organics, Rock Island (Produce) Broken Shovel Farms, Joy, Ill. (Coffee, produce) Grateful Graze, Geneseo (Beef, pork, and chicken products) Crandall Farms, Coal Valley (Honey, beeswax products, quail and chicken eggs, produce) Cravers Little Red Barn, Taylor Ridge (Produce, soap) Dailey Farm, Alexis, Ill. (Goat milk, soap) Family Thyme Farms, Hillsdale (Produce, food-bearing plants) Flamingoberry, Davenport (Personal care products) Flora Flower Farm, Taylor Ridge (Floral arrangements) From the Earth Bakery, Rock Island (Baked goods, frozen treats) Ineichen Tomatoes, Milan and Blue Grass (Produce) Inner Light Essentials, Rock Island (Personal care products) Lathe & Lambsquarters, Cambridge (Produce, maple syrup, canned goods, meat, eggs) Mad Farmer’s Garden, Coal Valley (Produce, spices, baked goods) Never Dun Growing, Geneseo (Produce, CBD products, pork, poultry, eggs) Old Paths Farm, Aledo (Jams, preserves, baked goods) Perennial Crops Nursery, Rock Island (Food bearing trees and shrubs) Shire Regenerative Farm, Coal Valley (Food bearing garden plants) Strawberry Fields, Orion (Strawberries and produce) Suzanne’s Swiss Bakery, Rock Island (Baked goods) Tapestry Farms, Rock Island and Davenport (Produce) The House with the Flowers, Davenport (Floral arrangements) For more information on the Rock Island market (which is year-round online), click HERE.
	Bishop Hill plans 3-day quilt show The 2024 Bishop Hill Quilt Show "Rainbows, Rick Rack & Roses" will be held May 17-19 in the Bishop Hill Colony School. Hours will be 10 a.m.-4 pp.m. Friday, May 17; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 18; and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, May 19. Quilts, gifts and antiques will be featured throughout the village in the event that is sponsored by Prairie Queen Quilt Club.
	Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce awards over $32,000 in scholarships to area students The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce has awarded $32,750 in scholarships to local students for the 2024-25 school year. The chamber raises funds and awards scholarships to local students pursuing higher education every year. Committees and volunteers organize fundraising efforts, collect scholarship applications, evaluate applications and award funds. “We are so appreciative of our members’ support to provide these scholarships. Collaborating with the chamber, whether financially, as a committee member or a volunteer goes a long way in supporting our area students in their future,” said Pam Fluck, SVACC Board President. “A future we hope brings them back to the Sauk Valley area.” The Agribusiness Committee awarded scholarships totaling $18,750 to all 15 applicants for the upcoming school year. Four manufacturing scholarships were awarded, totaling $6,000. The Farnham Business Scholarship was awarded to four students, totaling $4,000. The SVACC Hispanic Business Leaders Committee awarded four scholarships, totaling $4,000. “It is due to the engagement and commitment of our members in our Chamber events and activities that allow us to make workforce development initiatives a priority,” said Kris Noble, Executive Director. For more information on SVACC scholarships and their allocations, please email Kris Noble at knoble@saukvalleyareachamber.com or call (815) 625-2400.
	Ex-convicted convict receives second chance at life through unexpected pardon Jason Hernandez didn't have a positive upbringing, being convicted at 21. However, his determination to change paid off after President Biden gave him a pardon.
	Scott County voters have new user-friendly election website Scott County voters now have a user-friendly website to find all their election information, according to a news release. Scott County Auditor Kerri Tompkins has announced that elections.scottcountyiowa.gov is online. Tompkins said the site will be easier to navigate to find election information, register to vote or find a form to request an absentee ballot. Additionally, voters can enter their addresses to find their polling location and sample ballots, along with their current elected representatives. “We’ve been working for some time on ways to improve displaying information about elections on our Scott County site,” Tompkins said. “We believe voters will find everything they need in a user-friendly format at this site.” Tompkins said the site also includes past election information and a section listing officials voted on by Scott County voters. The site also converts to a mobile format for those looking up information on their phones or tablets. “Neapolitan Labs presented us with a great platform for this site that was affordable, and they have been great to work with,” Tompkins said. “We encourage Scott County voters to check out the site and find how clean it looks and how easy it is to use.”
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for May 1, 2024 A Galesburg football coach is facing domestic battery charges, and a vigil is scheduled in response to Iowa's new immigration law.
	Purina, Clinton, supports Maquoketa Betterment Corp., dog park Team members from Purina in Clinton recently presented a $15,000 donation to leaders of Maquoketa Betterment Corporation to create pet-friendly activities and build obstacles in the new dog park at the Horseshoe Pond Campground, a news release says. The donation was delivered through the Purina Trust Fund, recognizing organizations who work to positively impact Purina’s operating communities. Maquoketa Betterment Corporation is focused on improving the city of Maquoketa by making the community a better place to live and conduct business. “We are honored to accept this donation from Purina as it will help us make a difference in the community,” said Scott Warren, dog park committee member. “Purina’s investment in our organization will have a tremendous impact and will contribute to a thriving environment for people and pets. We look forward to using the funds to actively carry out our mission as we improve the new dog park at the Horseshoe Pond Campground.” “At Purina, we focus on crafting the best quality food for pets, but we are just as passionate about the communities where we serve,” said Justin Wilkinson, Purina Clinton factory manager. “We are thrilled to present Maquoketa Betterment Corp. with a Purina Trust Fund grant and continue our partnership in the community.” In the last five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million to organizations focused on making a difference for pets, people and the planet, the release says. The Purina Clinton factory employs more than 565 local associates. To learn more about causes Purina supports, visit here.
	Supervisors approve grant for fruit and vegetable industry A grant was approved for $19,876.
	Rotary Club, United Way of Muscatine assemble literacy kits for Jefferson students Sixty-one literacy kits were assembled and delivered.
	Wilton students present project in Washington D.C. at National STEM competition Wilton students make the case for their project at the National STEM compeition in Washington D.C.
	Farmers markets open for the summer this week in the Quad-Cities Which market are you going to? There are plenty of options in the area opening this week.
	Eldridge City Council removes utility board member Paula Steward amid ongoing tensions Without public discussion by council members, the Eldridge City Council voted unanimously Monday to remove Paula Steward from the city's utility board.
	New Kingdom Trailriders in Sherrard celebrates 40th anniversary Nearly 110 riders a week come through the doors.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, May 1, 2024 Beverly M. Meyer, 86, of New Liberty, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at Genesis East Medical Center, Davenport. Arrangements are pending at Bentley Funeral Home, Wilton, Iowa.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 1, 2024 Thomas L. Hansen, 76, of Cambridge, died Friday, April 26, 2024, at Hammond-Henry Hospital, Geneseo. Cremation rites will be accorded. Private family interment will be in the National Cemetery on Rock Island Arsenal. Military rites will be given. Memorials may…
Tuesday, April 30th, 2024
	5 years later: Davenport’s quest to improve flood resiliency after 2019 downtown barrier failure After barriers failed in Davenport during the flooding of 2019, city officials were forced to rethink their flood resiliency plans.
	We're 100 days out from the Iowa and Illinois state fairs! Both fairs run from Aug. 8 to Aug. 18.
	Ballet Quad Cities receives anonymous $100,000 donation Officials said the funding will help renovate their new Moline location.
	FBI says older adults lost $3 billion to scams in 2023 That's an 11% increase from 2022.
	Niabi Zoo reopens with new prairie dog exhibit, despite delays from repair work The park is still fixing up enclosures and buildings that were damaged by winter snow.
	Galesburg skating rink back and ready to roll A Galesburg roller rink once in jeopardy of losing its role as a safe community spot has residents back skating again after installing a new floor. As Our Quad Cities News reporter Victoria Frazier found out, the rink is ready to roll into the future.
	Niabi Zoo reopens with new prairie dog exhibit, despite delays from repair work The park is still fixing up enclosures and buildings that were damaged by winter snow.
	Area native Republican candidate makes stop in QCA Your Local Election Headquarters was there as a Republican candidate for Iowa's First Congressional District met with voters in Eldridge. Davenport native David Pautsch is challenging incumbent Mariannette Miller-Meeks in the Iowa Primary. Pautsch spoke with voters about border control, family values and crime rates. The Iowa Primary is June 4.
	Davenport business owners reflect on 2019 flood Tuesday marked five years since a devastating flood impacted downtown Davenport.
	Galesburg football coach arrested on domestic battery charge On Tuesday, April 23, Galesburg Police responded to 39-year-old Derrek Blackwell's residence after receiving a report of domestic physical violence.
	QC rescues are part of the Empty the Shelters initiative To support the nation’s animal shelters and help pets find loving homes, BISSELL PetFoundation will host its Spring National Empty the Shelters reduced-fee adoption event fromMay 1-15, according to a news release. Both the Quad City Animal Welfare Center, Milan, and Humane Society of Scott County, Davenport, will participate, according to the BISSELL Empty the Shelters website. Both shelters will participate May 1-15 with special lowered fees for adult animals. The Quad City Animal Welfare Center Adoption & Education Center is at 724 W. 2nd Ave., Milan, and the Humane Society of Scott County is at 2802 W. Central Park Ave., Davenport. "Our nation’s animal shelters are facing a capacity crisis and need your help now. Adoptionshave slowed while a surge in owner surrenders due to families facing economic and housingchallenges has left tens of thousands of highly adoptable pets desperate to find homes," saidCathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. "Our Spring National ‘Empty the Shelters' willsupport the adoption of thousands of pets across the country, helping shelters in this criticaltime. Opening your home to a shelter pet saves a life and creates lifesaving space to helpanother pet in need." (OurQuadCities.com) For more information about the Quad City Animal Welfare Center, visit here. For more information about the Humane Society of Scott County, visit here.
	Minnie Fridge reducing its hours in Davenport Fridge officials said someone has been cleaning out the entire pantry while leaving nothing behind for others.
	Davenport Central senior surprised with $20,000 scholarship Samuel Bevans was awarded the 2024 Kathryn Bell Tate Scholarship but didn't know he was going to receive it until the presentation.
	Galesburg football coach arrested on domestic battery charge On Tuesday, April 23, Galesburg Police responded to 39-year-old Derrek Blackwell's residence after receiving a report of domestic physical violence.
	Mark VIII Liberty Tank unveiled at Rock Island Arsenal Museum A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Mark VIII Liberty Tank was held on April 30.
	Minnie Fridge reducing its hours Pantry officials said someone's been cleaning out the whole fridge while leaving nothing behind for other community members.
	Two QCA volunteers honored for Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame Two people from the QCA are being honored for their commitment to volunteering and mentoring. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds inducted the 2024 Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame members presented the excellence in mentoring awards in a ceremony at the state capitol. Robert Albee from Muscatine was inducted for his work with an area food pantry and homeless shelter. Albeevolunteered to be the interim executive director of the Muscatine Center for Social Action and put in more than 40 volunteer hours a week last year. Yvonne Lyons of Bettendorf received the excellence in mentoring award. Lyons became a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley 14 years ago. She has been in three matches and has been mentoring her current 'little' for more than seven years. For more information, click here.
	Knox County Sheriff's Office issues fraud alert about scam calls According to a Tuesday post on its Facebook page, the Knox County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a scam involving phone calls. The sheriff's office has received reports that a caller has demanded that a bond be posted to resolve missing jury duty or face a warrant arrest, according to the post. The caller also mentioned Sheriff Harlan by name, the post says. The victims are then instructed to make arrangements to “post bond” over the phone. While Jack C Harlan Jr is the Knox County sheriff, The Knox County Sheriff’s Office will not call and demand money to be paid over the phone or via any electronic means, the post says. "Be aware it is common in these types of scams that a legitimate law enforcement number may be 'spoofed' on your caller ID," the post says. "If you receive a scam call like this or something similar, hang up and call the 24 hour non-emergency Public Safety number at 309-343-9151."
	Rock Island Arsenal displays tank made there 100 years ago A tank made at the Rock Island Arsenal over 100 years ago has been returned, restored and is now on display.

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024

Wednesday, May 1st, 2024

Tuesday, April 30th, 2024