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

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024
	St. Ambrose head cheer, dance coach steps down After 14 seasons, St. Ambrose Head Cheer and Dance Coach, Danelle Langeneckert, is stepping down. Langeneckert has taken the St. Ambrose cheer and dance programs to new heights winning multiple national championships, four of those within the last year.
	QC YWCA finds a new home The curtain is falling on the old YWCA building in downtown Rock Island. The non-profit organization moved into its new building a couple of blocks away. It's about three times the size of its old facility. "It's been, oh my gosh, five years in the making and finally today is moving day," said Julie Larson, QC YWCA president and CEO. Staff members were doing the heavy lifting Thursday morning as they moved everything into their brand-new facility. The old 24,000-square-foot building has been used for decades, and Larson says the move is long overdue. "Everybody is just excited about the new facility," Larson said. "This building has served us very well over the years since 1954 but were really looking forward to a new chapter at the YWCA." (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) The YWCA's new home cost $20,000,000. The non-profit received $19,400,000 in donations over the years, thanks to grants and community members. The larger space will allow the YWCA to grow and expand its services by adding more childcare classrooms, a new fitness room, a new aquatic area equipped with a slide and lazy river, an upgraded gym, a new empowerment center that will provide employment-training programs, and much more. "It really just enhances the services that we have here and it allows to expand and serve more individuals in the community," Larson said. Because of COVID, inflation, and other challenges, the YWCA had to hold off on its move to a new facility for five years. Larson began working at the non-profit 25 years ago, and she never could have predicted a move like this, and she is beyond excited to see where it takes them in the future. "I don't even know what to say. I don't think it has really hit yet," Larson said. "I drive by it every day and just get a big smile on my face because we did it. It was tough but as women and as community leaders, we put ourselves together and made it happen. We're just really excited about the opportunities for people in Rock Island and the entire community. We're really looking forward to a new chapter for the YWCA." The childcare center will be open on May 6. Larson also says other services will be ready to go in the coming weeks as employees get organized in the new building. There will also be a rooftop patio coming in the future. Once that is completed, the building will be 72,000 square feet.
	Nonprofit gives eye exams and glasses to grade-schoolers United Way Quad Cities celebrated giving 500 elementary schoolers glasses on Wednesday.
	Gov. Reynolds signs mega site tax incentives bill Iowa has a new law to try to attract massive business projects. Now, it needs to find companies interested in starting one in the state.
	Rock Island looking for public input on downtown mural designs The murals will be a part of the future Arts Alley. It's a part of Rock Island's multimillion-dollar downtown revitalization plan.
	New apartment complex coming to Bettendorf near TBK It will have about 300 units. The company says they broke ground last week.
	Living Lands & Waters plant 2 millionth tree The efforts began back in 2007.
	Historic Colonel Davenport House opens for the season The house is open Thursday to Saturday every week from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
	Get outside with Moline Parks and Rec's free Yoga in the Park The series of classes will begin on May 4.
	Two Rivers in Rock Island welcomes United Methodist Church's changes to anti-LGBTQ policies On Thursday, church leaders voted 523 to 161 to eliminate language saying "the practice of homosexuality … is incompatible with Christian teaching.”
	Tech company considering Davenport for $8M data center It's unclear what tech company it is but city documents show they want to develop on 328 acres of land near the new Amazon facility.
	Fresh produce, crafts and more: Here's where you can find a farmers market in the Quad Cities area Farmers markets are the best way to buy local produce and homemade items straight from the source.
	Two Rivers in Rock Island welcomes United Methodist Church's changes to anti-LGBTQ policies On Thursday, church leaders voted 523 to 161 to eliminate language saying "the practice of homosexuality … is incompatible with Christian teaching.”
	Bettendorf food pantry forced to close after tree falls on building, president says The AGAPE Center Project, food pantry in Bettendorf said they’re experiencing a huge setback after a large Oak tree fell on the center’s roof.
	Mississippi Valley Growers Association hosts its first farmers market of the season in Davenport The market is open Wednesday and Saturday mornings in Davenport at NorthPark Mall. It's also open in Bettendorf on Monday and Thursday mornings.
	Famous NYC artist had special Iowa link Iowa City is not a magnet just for the Hawkeyes teams and first-class medical care. The $50-million University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art – built by Davenport-based Russell Construction and open since summer 2022 – is opening a unique exhibit, “To My Friends at Horn: Keith Haring and Iowa City.” Keith Haring posing with A Book Full of Fun, 1989. Photo by Rodney White. © Keith Haring Foundation At the height of his career, the New York-based popular artist Keith Haring visited students at Ernest Horn Elementary School in Iowa City and painted the mural “A Book Full of Fun” (1989). The new exhibit -- on view May 4, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 -- opens on what would have been Haring’s 66th birthday and celebrates the artist’s legacy through works of art on loan from the Keith Haring Foundation, photos and archival ephemera. Haring’s relationship with Horn Elementary began in the early 1980s after teacher Colleen Ernst, affectionately known as “Dr. Art,” introduced her fifth- and sixth-grade students to his work, according to a museum release. At the time, Haring (who died from AIDS-related complications at age 31, in February 1990) was famous for his spontaneous chalk drawings created on sheets of black paper that were used to cover advertisements in New York subway stations. An introductory postcard from Ernst in 1982 grew into an ongoing exchange of letters and care packages between Haring and the grade-schoolers. Haring traveled to Iowa City in March 1984 for “Keith Haring in Iowa City,” a three-day artist residency developed in partnership with the University of Iowa, the museum said. Haring at work at Horn Elementary School, Iowa City, in 1989. Photo by Rodney White. © Keith Haring Foundation He led drawing workshops, created a tarpaulin painting as part of a public performance and shared insight into his practice during a public lecture. After that visit, Haring stayed in touch with the students and addressed his correspondence, “To All My Friends at Horn,” a greeting that inspired the name of the exhibition. “Keith Haring envisioned a world where art functioned as a pillar of education and civic life,” said Diana Tuite, the Stanley’s visiting senior curator of modern and contemporary art and the exhibition curator. “He appreciated children for their sense of wonder and their unprejudiced natures and saw how meaningful it was for him, an openly gay man, to be in these spaces.” Haring’s relationship with the community endured even as his international fame grew. At the invitation of Ernst and Horn Elementary School principal Paul E. Davis, Haring returned to Iowa City for a single day on May 22, 1989. Haring (center) returned to the Iowa City school in May 1989, pictured with school principal Paul E. Davis and art teacher Colleen Ernst (courtesy of Stanley Museum of Art). Proclaimed “Keith Haring Day” at the school, the artist painted “A Book Full of Fun” in the school library, asking for students’ suggestions in real time. Depicting a thought bubble above an open book, the symbolic mural overflows with creative characters, visual puns, letters and numbers in a tribute to the students’ literary imaginations. Imagination of children Haring credited his work with children as one of the most satisfying parts of his career. “What I like about children is their imagination,” said Haring, as reported in John Gruen’s authorized biography of the artist. “It’s a combination of honesty and freedom they seem to have in expressing whatever is on their minds – and the fact that they have a really sophisticated sense of humor.” Planned construction at the school required the mural’s temporary relocation. In July 2023, the Stanley partnered with the school to conserve the artwork. To do so, conservators removed the mural, along with part of the wall to which it was attached, and safely transported the 4,000-pound structure to the museum (160 W. Burlington St.), where it will stay until it can be reinstalled at Horn Elementary School in 2025. Horn Elementary School students pose in front of the Haring mural in progress in 1989 (photo courtesy of Colleen Ernst). The Stanley’s exhibition marks the public debut of “A Book Full of Fun” and the artwork’s first appearance alongside the 12-foot-long mural Haring painted on tarpaulin during his 1984 artist residency in Iowa City. The untitled work was completed in the city’s Old Capitol Center on March 27, 1984 to the accompaniment of the Johnson County Landmark jazz ensemble. It was also featured in an exhibition of his work at the Stanley (then the University of Iowa Museum of Art) during the same time period. Featuring a menacing computer-headed caterpillar – one of Haring’s recurring tropes – the symbolic mural echoes sentiments about technology that Haring was known to write about in his journals: “The human imagination cannot be programmed by a computer. Our imagination is our greatest hope for survival.” Jackson Pollock’s world-famous "Mural" returned to Stanley Museum of Art in 2022. It was displayed at Davenport's Figge Art Museum from 2008 to 2012. Additional works by the artist serve as signposts, contextualizing his visits within his meteoric career, the museum release says. An early experimental video, “Painting Myself into a Corner,” explores the connection between painting, movement and performance and invites comparison to the artist Jackson Pollock, whose monumental 1943 work “Mural” is on view in an adjacent gallery. Living his values Produced in the same year as “A Book Full of Fun,” the print “Ignorance=Fear, Silence=Death” was created for political action group ACT UP, the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power. The Haring print "Ignorance=Fear, Silence=Death" was created for the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power. The poster combines symbolic visuals to urge increased compassion and education around the AIDS epidemic, demonstrating how Haring’s work often operated as a vehicle for activism. Stories from the community will also be incorporated into the exhibition, including interviews with former students, related photographs, drawings and other mementos that reveal the artist’s lasting impact on Iowa City. “Artmaking was an inherently social activity for Haring, as his trips to Iowa City demonstrate. He lived his values and believed that entering into dialogue with people could produce change,” said Tuite. Haring reimagined art’s role within society and devoted much of his time to public works, many of which were created for charities, hospitals, children’s daycare centers and orphanages. He continued to balance high-profile projects with his dedication to accessible public art and social activism throughout his acclaimed career. His work promoted racial and sexual tolerance while confronting social and political issues, including nuclear proliferation, homosexuality, environmental devastation and the AIDS epidemic, the Stanley said. Haring was diagnosed with AIDS in 1988, and he established the Keith Haring Foundation the following year. He died from complications related to the illness at age 31 in 1990, less than a year after painting “A Book Full of Fun” in Iowa City. The new University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art opened in August 2022 at 160 W. Burlington St., on the University of Iowa campus (photo by Jonathan Turner). “We’re grateful to have been given the opportunity to save ‘A Book Full of Fun.’ This rescue mission reflects our community’s embrace of the arts and the love shared towards Keith Haring and his work,” said Lauren Lessing, the Stanley Museum of Art’s director. “Much like the mission of the Stanley, the mural demonstrates the power of education, the reciprocity of inspiration and the role that creative artists play in helping us to see one another and know ourselves.” For more information on the museum, click HERE.
	Sherrard School labor contract ratified, officials say The Sherrard School Board and the Sherrard Education Association (SEA) ratified a three-year labor agreement at the regular board meeting on April 17.
	Sherrard board, teachers union ratify 3-year agreement The Sherrard School Board and the Sherrard Education Association (SEA) ratified a three-year labor agreement at the regular board meeting on April 17, according to a news release. “This was the third contract negotiation spanning nine years that I have participated in with the same group of SEA representatives, and each time it keeps getting better. The trust and camaraderie we have developed propelled this to be the most successful contract negotiation to date,” said Rhys Fullerlove, school board president. Fullerlove said the terms of the contract are “One of the best financial packages to our teachers and staff in Sherrard's history,” attributing that to the financial acumen of Superintendent Dr. Johnson and Business Director Lindsay Adams. “This contract will significantly enhance our competitiveness with local school districts of similar size." "We were able to work creatively with the union to develop flexibilities that will help us address the teacher shortage. These include enhanced maternity/paternity leave, recognition of past educational experience, and excellent opportunities for teachers to qualify for tuition reimbursement in hard-to-fill positions,” he said. "These negotiations were a prime example of a beneficial agreement for both sides. By leaving behind traditional ‘adversarial bargaining’ tactics in favor of common sense, hospitality, teamwork, and problem solving, an agreement that benefits all involved was reached in short order. From the start, both the Board and the SEA recognized the need to compensate employees fairly while living within our financial means as a district,” said Superintendent Dr. Carl Johnson. Johnson explained one notable change - two emergency days were added to the school calendar, previously five, to now seven, “Given the historic snowfall event we experienced this year, it’s important that we preserve our opportunities for capturing as many instructional days as possible while maintaining the ability to cancel school when student and employee safety demands it.” Robert Wilson, 6th grade science teacher at Matherville Intermediate and lead negotiator for the SEA team has also been working with the board on contract negotiation for nine years, “Each time the experience is a positive one. The rapport we have with them is great and each time we have met the contracts have been better. The process works because both sides listen and respect each other, and that makes for a really good working relationship.” WIlson said the contract is, “in a really good spot right now and that is because of all the hard work being done by both sides.” Highlights of the new contract include: $825/month towards insurance Annual salary stipend for all employees Extracurricular stipend increases Classified retirement incentive for unused sick days Maternity/Paternity Leave Professional development up to $800/year from $500/year Salary increases: FY25- 4% certified, $1.25/hr classified FY26- 4% certified, $1.25/hr classified FY27- 3% certified, $1.25/hr classified The contract affects about 200 district teachers and support staff, with the exception of those in exempt job classifications and takes effect July 1 and runs through the 2026-2027 school year. To read the contract, visit here.
	Colonel Davenport House officially opens for the season on Arsenal Island According to historians, Colonel George Davenport's home was the first permanent house in the city — making him one of the earliest settlers in the area.
	There's still time to check out Illinois' snake road this spring LaRue Road in Shawnee National Forest is the only road in the world that closes to cars for a bi-annual snake and reptile migration in the spring and fall.
	Traffic Alert: I-280 work begins Monday A traffic alert for Rock Island travelers.
	Police: 2 suspects charged with murder, drug-induced homicide in Mercer County William DeWitt, 41, of Milan, and Susan McFalls, 52, of Colona were both charged in a death investigation dating back to December in Sherrard.
	Culver's restaurants hosting 10th 'Scoops of Thanks Day' on May 2 Guests can choose between chocolate, vanilla or the new "How Now Brown Cow" flavor for their scoop.
	Physical Therapy used to treat dizziness disorders While people should first see their doctor to help determine the cause of dizziness, one option to consider is physical therapy.
	There's still time to check out Illinois' snake road this spring LaRue Road in Shawnee National Forest is the only road in the world that closes to cars for a bi-annual snake and reptile migration in the spring and fall.
	Iowa DNR: Don't try to rescue 'orphaned' baby animals this spring As more baby animals pop up, the Iowa DNR is encouraging you to leave them alone. Even if they appear orphaned and vulnerable, 'rescue' often results in death.
	OSHA issues 3 ‘serious citations’ following death of worker at Deere in Milan Investigators have cited Deere and Company in connection with an employee who died following an accident at the parts distribution center in Milan.
	Real estate update: Myths about buying real estate The monthly real estate update looks at the latest real estate trends in the Quad Cities Metro and across the region.
	Iowa DNR: Don't try to rescue 'orphaned' baby animals this spring As more baby animals pop up, the Iowa DNR is encouraging you to leave them alone. Even if they appear orphaned and vulnerable, 'rescue' often results in death.
	Isolated severe storms possible Thursday evening in the Quad Cities region The round of storms is forecasted to move across the Quad Cities region between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday. The threat of severe weather remains low at 1 out of 5.
	Iowa American Water Company to increase rates, officials say Iowa American Water Company is seeking to raise its water rates, according to a media release from the company.
	Get outside with Moline Parks and Rec's free Yoga in the Park The series of classes will begin on May 4.
	‘Secretary’ Kim Reynolds? Here’s what Iowa governor thinks about this job with Donald Trump Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds responded to a report that confirmed her interest as U.S. Secretary of Education.
	Bettendorf announces free movies in park Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department's 2024 season of Movies in the Park will start in June. All movies are free, shown once a month at Veterans Memorial Park, 1645 23rd Street, starting at sundown. You are encouraged to bring your own lawn chair and/or blanket. This summer’s schedule is: Saturday, June 8th – “Trolls” (Sponsored by The Tangled Wood) Saturday, July 13th – “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (Sponsored by K&K Hardware) Saturday, August 10th – “Wish” (Sponsored by Friends of Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Foundation) Saturday, Sept. 14th – “Migration” (Sponsored by Blackhawk Bank & Trust) For more information, visit Bettendorf Parks & Recreation HERE.
	Bettendorf food pantry sustains damages TV6 received a viewer tip about a tree branch falling and landing on a food pantry in Bettendorf.
	Beaux Arts Fair returns Mother's Day weekend The spring Beaux Arts Fair returns to Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds (2815 W. Locust St., Davenport) on Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12, Mother’s Day weekend. This is the 71st year of the Beaux Arts Fair, so the first 71 mothers to stop at the information booth will receive a small gift, according to a Thursday news release. All attendees are invited to explore 80 booths showcasing handcrafted artworks spanning photography, jewelry, pottery, stained glass, fine furniture, sculpture, and more created by artists from all over the country. The spring Beaux Arts Fair returns to Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds (2815 W. Locust St., Davenport) on Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12, 2024. Items at all price levels will be available for purchase. Admission is complimentary, and food and drinks are available for purchase. All proceeds from the fair generously support the Figge Art Museum’s educational programs and exhibitions throughout the year. As a juried fine arts and fine craft fair, awards will be presented in several categories including a $250 prize for Best of Show and a $50 prize in following categories: Clay, Drawing/Printmaking, Fiber/Leather, Glass, Jewelry, Mixed Medium, Painting, Photography, Sculpture and Wood. “We are proud to bring together a diverse array of artists, offering attendees a chance to explore a wide range of artistic expressions,” Beaux Arts Committee president Linda Hardin said in Thursday’s release. “This event is a testament to the vibrant arts community in the Quad Cities, and we're delighted to support the Figge Art Museum's ongoing commitment to art education,” she said. The Quad-Cities Woodturners will be doing a demonstration on Saturday, May 11. Fair hours are Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday, May 12 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Save the date for the Fall Beaux Arts Fair at the Figge Art Museum’s Bechtel Plaza on Sept. 7-8, 2024. The fair was established in 1967, making the Beaux Arts Fair one of the longest-running art fairs in the Midwest. Fair attendance and artist participation expanded on a yearly basis. In 1970, to celebrate the new Wiese addition, the Beaux Arts Fundraising Committee started a second fair, making them one of the few bi-annual art fairs. The fairs are held annually on Mother's Day weekend, kicking off the season of outdoor summer events. The second fair is held annually on the weekend after Labor Day. In May of 2001, the Beaux Arts moved the fairs downtown while the new Figge Art Museum, was being built. In September 2008, the fairs moved back to the museum grounds. The Beaux Arts Fundraising committee continues to donate all proceeds from the fairs to the Figge Art Museum for programs and exhibitions. The spring fair was moved to the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds in the spring of 2019 due to the major flooding of downtown Davenport. Artists and patrons enjoyed the move with easy parking and little traffic congestion, according to the fair website. The committee polled the artists and patrons about permanently keeping the spring fair at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds. With that polling, it was decided to continue the spring art fair at the fairgrounds in northwest Davenport. For more information, click HERE.
	Methodist church celebrates new policies on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings An inclusive church in the Quad Cities is celebrating after the United Methodist Church lifted bans on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings.
	Piano draws patrons to Moline club It was an unusually festive after-work Wednesday at the private Svithiod Club, 1522 6th Ave., Moline. That’s when pianist Alex Gilson played a variety of jazz, blues and classical for an hour, with upright bassist Rich Wagor, in a free concert presented by Moline-based Sound Conservatory and its new “Keys of Unity” program. Gilson is organist at Davenport’s First Presbyterian Church, who teaches piano and cello for Sound Conservatory. Wagor has taught bass at Sound Conservatory for over a year. The music school and store moved to the former Carnegie Library (504 17th St., Moline) from downtown Rock Island last November. Alex Gilson and Rich Wagor perform at Moline's Svithiod Club on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. In the “Keys of Unity” program, Sound Conservatory owner Andzrej Kozlowski has loaned upright pianos for selected downtown businesses free of charge for a month. The first locations have been Svithiod Club, Dead Poets Espresso, Fifth Avenue Syndicate Bistro & Bar and Los Portales restaurant. “I like coming out and performing in a more relaxed setting,” Gilson said Wednesday. “I just don’t do this that much.” Pianist Alex Gilson and bassist Rich Wagor perform at Svithiod Club, 1522 6th Ave., Moline (photo by Jonathan Turner). He likes the idea of allowing the public to play the pianos, which is encouraged for Keys of Unity. “When I see a piano in a public place, it says ‘Do Not Touch,’ I was like, why is that?” Gilson said. “When I was a kid, sometimes I’d play in public places and I was told, ‘Don’t play’ and that was just soul-crushing when something like that happened. “It’s always good to encourage people to touch a piano, see what sound comes out,” he said. “Another thing is, there are always pianos around, everywhere I’m at – the church I work at, and to me it’s really sad, I went to vacation in Florida and I don’t think I saw a single piano anywhere I went.” “It struck me that, I’m pretty lucky in the Quad Cities, it seems like every room has a keyboard in it,” Gilson said. “So programs like this are good to get that out there in public.” Patrons listen to live music Wednesday, May 1, at Svithiod Club in downtown Moline (photo by Jonathan Turner). “The goal behind the program is to get more people excited about live music, going out to the local businesses,” Kozlowski said. “Also allow these businesses to offer live music for their guests. Music is one of the biggest things that draws people into a restaurant or a space.” New piano locations The first round of “Keys of Unity” ends Sunday, May 5, and the Svithiod Club is keeping its piano another month (until June 5). The program is adding another piano to the mix, at Atlas Collective (1801 5th Ave.), in addition to switching pianos to Tony’s Chicago Style Pizzeria (1321 5th Ave.) and Bass Street Chop House (1425 River Drive), starting May 5. The donated piano at Svithiod Club (which anyone can play) will stay through June 5, 2024. “We’re adding more pianos to the mix, so we can move up certain things,” Kozlowski said, noting certain locations will have pianos longer than a month. They are all loaned free for each business, and Sound Conservatory also is covering the cost of paying instructors to play, and $50 gift cards for monthly drawings to people who post videos of themselves playing, tagging Sound Conservatory with #keysofunity. “Businesses have been very responsive; they’ve been sharing a lot of our posts,” Kozlowski said. “We want to show all the great things we have going on down here.” “Having them for two or three months gives people more opportunity on social media to see it, and get down there to try it out,” he said. “We decided to add more pianos.” The winning "Keys of Unity" piano design by Moline High senior Shea Gende. A piano painted by a Moline High School student will also be placed downtown soon. For senior Shea Gende’s winning design (out of 12 submitted), she earned of $250 in gift cards to Lagomarcino’s, Meli’s Pancake House, Dead Poets Espresso, Tony’s Pizzeria, and Sound Conservatory. Another donated piano will be painted by artist Regan Hatfield during the weekly Bass Street Landing summer concert series, starting Thursday, May 16 (with Funktastic 5). “We’re using this first year to see what works, what doesn’t work,” Kozlowski said. “We’re hoping through this program, we can also draw interest from other musicians who want to partake in this. Each location we want to do one free concert.” The Keys of Unity Baldwin piano at Fifth Avenue Syndicate, 1630 5th Ave., Moline. “I love the idea having music in the community,” said Tammy Skovronski, the Svithiod Club bar manager. They occasionally have live music, but not on a regular basis. Not many people have come to play the upright piano, since it is a private club, she said. Wednesday’s event was open to the public, and attracted a lot of new faces. “It’s helping get the word out to the community about the music and our club,” Skovronski said. She wanted to extend having the piano for another month to encourage more people to come hear it. For more information on “Keys of Unity,” click HERE.
	4 Your Money \| Paying The Bills High interest rates have kept housing activity like sales and refinances at a very low level nationally. David Nelson, CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management, is here to explain if he thinks this will become a broader problem for the economy and how it impacts viewers working on their financial plans.
	Road work coming to I-280 in Rock Island The work zone will go from the John F. Baker Jr. Mississippi River Bridge to the Illinois 92 interchange. Work is expected to be completed by May 10.
	Hiney Heroes joins World's Largest Diaper Drive for those in need The nonprofit is just one of many across the nation working to raise over 2 million diapers by the end of May for families in need.
	US 150 north of Ophiem Road in Henry County to be temporarily closed The closing is located at the BNSF Railroad crossing on U.S. 150. It's expected to last roughly a week.
	Rain and thunderstorms Thursday afternoon and evening Active weather looks to continue again next week.
	2 charged with murder, drug-induced homicide in Mercer County death William DeWitt, 41, of Milan, and Susan McFalls, 52, of Colona were both charged in a death investigation dating back to December in Sherrard.
	'Herky on Parade' honoring the Hawkeyes' mascot returns to Iowa City 100 statues of Herky in various designs will be placed around Johnson County. The mascot is celebrating 75 years at the university.
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| May 2, 2024 Tune in to Good Morning Quad Cities every Thursday at 5 a.m. for events happening in and around the Quad Cities area.
	Ballet Quad Cities receives anonymous $100,000 private gift Ballet Quad Cities announced that they received a $100,000 donation from an anonymous donor.
	Arts Alley designs to be unveiled May 8 Ten designs proposed for two large-scale wall murals in Rock Island’s Arts Alley will be unveiled next week, and the community is invited to take part in the final selection process. The art will be displayed gallery-style for a public event 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, at Rozz-Tox, 2108 3rd Ave., Rock Island. Attendees will have the opportunity to “tag” their favorite designs and engage in conversation, according to the Rock Island Downtown Alliance. The proposed Arts Alley design submitted by mural artist Atlanta Dawn of Rapids City. Dennis Hockaday of neighboring downtown business Ragged Records & Music will be spinning tunes for the event, and food and drinks will be available for purchase from the café. “This is a great opportunity for our community to help shape the future look and feel of downtown,” Jack Cullen, executive director of Rock Island Downtown Alliance, said in a Thursday release. “We’re proud to host this event at Rozz-Tox in partnership with Quad City Arts and the city of Rock Island, and we hope the community is just as excited about this level of investment in such a unique shared space.” Arts Alley, a pedestrian gateway connecting the riverfront and downtown business district in the 1700 block of 2nd Avenue, is one of the public spaces undergoing a transformation as part of the city’s $8.7-million Rebuild Downtown Rock Island project. Atlanta Dawn's proposed mural design as superimposed on the west-facing wall in Arts Alley, Rock Island. Combined, the two murals spanning 4,000 square feet of wall space, account for one of the largest public art projects in Rock Island’s history. More than 400 artists responded to a Request for Qualifications issued by Quad City Arts in January. By March, the list was narrowed to about 130 artists based on qualifications. The Downtown Alliance and Quad City Arts worked closely with building owners in Arts Alley, downtown stakeholders and the city’s Arts & Beautification Commission to reach consensus around the 10 finalists, who later submitted proposals for the walls. A rendering of a revitalized Arts Alley, to be completed in July 2024. The only local finalist is well-known Rapids City mural artist Atlanta Dawn. She incorporated moths into her design. “I’ve just been feeling a deep connection to moths this year. There is something about them I feel very drawn to,” she said Thursday. “I painted the giant Luna moth at the YWCA mural and just really appreciate their beauty. They symbolize transformation and rebirth and I feel like I am in a stage in my life that has a lot of change happening that I’m excited about. Atlanta Dawn and part of her four-wall mural at the outdoor YWCA child care playground, 513 17th St., Rock Island (photo by Jonathan Turner). “Also, with the rebuilding of Rock Island I felt the moths would be a powerful symbol of what they are trying to accomplish,” Dawn said. “The selection process for the Arts Alley murals was exceptionally challenging for the Rock Island Arts and Beautification Commission and the Rock Island Downtown Alliance due to the outstanding caliber of the artist submissions,” said QC Arts executive director Kevin Maynard. “These artists have extensive experience, having created murals nationally and internationally. Public art should reflect the community that it is in, and to do that we need our community to come out and be involved in this process.” Part of a new mural Atlanta Dawn is painting at the Avenue Tap in Silvis. Input gathered at the upcoming event will aid the final selection process. Data will be reviewed at a special Arts & Beautification Commission meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9, at Rock Island City Hall, and the final two artists or artist teams will be notified May 10. Other planned improvements to Arts Alley this spring and summer include a decorative walkway, lighting and signage; space for social gatherings and performances; space for seasonal pop-up shop programs; and additional art installations. The current west-facing wall of Arts Alley, 1700 block of 2nd Avenue, Rock Island. The total budget for the improvements to Arts Alley is just over $534,000, with half of the project being funded by a $267,000 State of Illinois Tourism Attractions grant. The city of Rock Island is primarily funding the remaining costs with a combination of Downtown Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District funds and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
	'Jersey Boys' veterans lead new Circa version A new production of “Jersey Boys” at Circa ’21 in Rock Island has just about the two best men possible at the helm, on and off stage. Less than year after Michael Ingersoll directed Bear Manescalchi as Frankie Valli in the popular jukebox musical about Valli and The Four Seasons in Memphis, the pair is back for a run that will open Friday, May 3 and run through July 6, 2024. "Jersey Boys" will run at Circa '21 in Rock Island through July 6, 2024. Manescalchi, 36, is back at Circa in his fifth production of “Jersey Boys,” after being part of the cast of a successful Murder on the Orient Express here. Among his long list of theater credits are Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, Motel in Fiddler on the Roof, Watson in Baskerville, Twelfth Night (Musical), almost four productions of Sister Act (one canceled due to COVID), singing on Disney Cruise Line, and performing at Universal Japan. “Sister Act” was the first show he sang falsetto in and people encouraged him to do Frankie (who famously sang in the high falsetto range) in “Jersey Boys,” and his first production was in 2022 in Kansas. The Circa cast is led by Bobby Becher, left, Bear Manescalchi, Kelly Brown, and Michael Ingersoll. The star and Circa director worked in the same roles for the 2005 musical in Memphis, Tenn. (Playhouse on the Square), for a month-long run last June and July. Ingersoll played Nick Massi (one of the Four Seasons) in the very first Broadway tour in 2006, the second person ever to play the role. “There’s never a guarantee that anything that hits on Broadway is going to hit in the country,” he said Wednesday. “Jersey Boys” had very gritty material and a lot of profanity (they toned down some language for the Circa production). “The stakes were so high to have a hit that would survive outside of New York, that the entire creative team reassembled for the national tour,” Ingersoll said. “It was the entire Broadway process, with all the Bradway set and Broadway technology, but we opened in San Francisco.” After they opened, it was such a hit, the show stayed for nine months – then in Los Angeles for three months and two and a half years in Chicago, and he played the part a total of 1,300 times. Michael Ingersoll and his wife run a Chicago-based concert production company. “The show became so popular by the time I was out of it, there were four companies,” Ingersoll said. Then, six companies over four continents. “Jersey Boys” ran on Broadway until Jan. 15, 2017, for 4,642 performances, now the 13th longest running show in history. “The reason ‘Jersey Boys’ is a success is that it is a fantastic play with music. The writing is what sets it apart,” Ingersoll said, comparing it to a lesser jukebox musical about a more popular group – The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations.” That show opened on Broadway the same year, 2005, received scathing critical reviews, and only ran for 94 performances. ‘Difference is writing’ “The difference is the writing,” Ingersoll said, noting “Jersey Boys” was co-penned by Oscar winner Marshall Brickman (“Annie Hall,” “Manhattan”). The story focuses on four poor, working-class guys, trying to get out of poverty “by way of this incredibly risky medium, and that’s why it’s compelling,” he said. "Jersey Boys" features Bear Manescalchi (left) as Frankie Valli, seen with Michael Ingersoll, Bobby Becher, Kelly Brown, and Derrick Bertram. “A lot of people can see themselves in this story. A lot of us are striving – we start in difficult places, we want to get to a better place,” Ingersoll said. “We want to provide for our families. That’s all they wanted to do. Those stories, and the fact they tanged with the Mafia a little bit; they sold 100 million records.” The single greatest thing that makes the show work is, while the audience is familiar with the songs (like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” December 1963 (Oh What a Night”), they learn things about the group that they didn’t know, he noted. “When you recontextualize it, and they hear it live, it’s like hearing it again for the first time, and that’s why it works,” Ingersoll said. “That’s why people cry at many of the celebratory moments.” He first directed it two years ago in Arrow Rock, Mo., and Circa is his third time directing it. Ingersoll and his wife run a Chicago-based concert production company, called Artists Lounge Live. Kelly Brown, left, Michael Ingersoll, Kyle DeFauw and Bear Manescalchi. “This play changed my life and career forever,” he said of “Jersey Boys.” “I’ve been interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and I’m nobody, because the show is so big.” Why jukebox musicals do or don’t work Ingersoll doesn’t like the more common jukebox musical formula of taking pop songs and forcing them into an unrelated narrative, though “Mamma Mia!” (songs of ABBA) made that work to tremendous success. “You can count on one hand how many times that’s been successful,” he said. “If Jersey Boys” was about a girl named Sherry and big girls who didn’t cry, it wouldn’t work. It was due to the surviving Four Seasons team were willing to tell their story as it happened. In the biographical Carole King jukebox musical, “Beautiful,” the popular singer-songwriter emerges unscathed, and it’s a nice show, but without much of the drama and grit “Jersey Boys” has, Ingersoll said. A scene from "Jersey Boys" at Circa. “It doesn’t hook me the way this one does, because Frankie and Bob and Tommy were gonna say, let me show you when we were not great. Let me show you what we did very, very wrong,” Ingersoll said. “That’s what hooks people. It’s really difficult to root for a hero who never says, ‘I was wrong, I struggled, I did this terribly.’” “Look at our lives – when we can see other people on stage, especially famous people, it takes it from being their story to our story, and that’s what good theater is,” he said. Frankie Valli goes from a teenager to age 60 in the musical. The guys desperately needed each other to succeed, Ingersoll said. When Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi met, they were just four teens singing together under street lamps, scraping for gigs and money in their working-class neighborhood, according to a Circa synopsis. As the quartet rises to international stardom, however, they celebrate the highs and endure the lows that come hand-in-hand with fame. Each member of the group takes a turn narrating events in this stage tale, illustrating how a ragtag group of guys from New Jersey – and their decades-long friendships – became music history. In “Jersey Boys,” actor Joe Pesci (“Home Alone,” "My Cousin Vinny," “Goodfellas”) plays a pivotal role in the formation of the popular band. Growing up near Newark, N.J., young Pesci was friendly with Tommy DeVito and the rest of the band and Pesci connected DeVito (the band’s behind-the-scenes leader at the time) with writer Bob Gaudio, who would later pen nearly all of the Four Seasons’ most popular songs. “Later on, Tommy ended up working for Pesci, because Pesci became a far bigger star than DeVito did,” Ingersoll said. “Tommy got a job driving him around.” Pesci showed up for the “Jersey Boys” musical premiere in L.A. Importance of story Manescalchi loves playing the evolution of the group over the years, and the strong storytelling. Bear Manescalchi (center) plays Frankie Valli in the biographical jukebox musical. “It’s nice working with Michael, because he really gets how important it is,” he said. “I worked for someone fresh off the Broadway tour at Bradway Palm (in Florida), and they had a very different approach. They had different things they thought were important about the show, I thought was contrary to telling the story.” “The story is what makes this piece compelling,” Manescalchi said. “It takes you on a journey and makes you feel something.” Ingersoll credited Nick Massi (who died in December 2000, before “Jersey Boys” was created) with the harmonic structure that made the Four Seasons’ vocals so famous. Bobby Becher, left, Bear Manescalchi, Michael Ingersoll and Kelly Brown. “They’re really fun to sing; it uses my whole range, basically,” Manescalchi said, noting he enjoys doing the iconic high falsetto Valli notes. He was trained at American Musical and Dramatic Academy in L.A. Another favorite role of his was the lead Seymour in “Little Shop of Horrors,” which he called “one of THE great shows of all time.” “I’m always so grateful to get to do a piece like that,” he said. “Jersey Boys” is “an unkillable play,” Ingersoll said. “It is an unkillable script; the most solid script in the modern era I’ve ever come across in terms of its writing.” “Also, remember that 50 years of familiarity with the material, and writing that solid, the play can still really connect with people – whether you’re talking a community theater level or a Broadway level,” he said. “That’s what makes a good piece of art.” Staying healthy over run The biggest X factor in a “Jersey Boys” success is who can sing Frankie, 24 songs, and stay vocally healthy for a two-month run. “Bear is amazing that way, in terms of consistency, staying vocally healthy.” “Frankie’s falsetto has a coarseness and a grit and an aggressiveness, and an urgency behind it,” Ingersoll said. “Mixing falsetto with that is a whole different ball game.” “Bear freaking delivers it and he should get credit for delivering it,” he said of his star. “I do my best to get that rougher edge,” Manescalchi. “It’s not easy.” He tries to make smart choices, and stays healthy to protect his voice – no smoking or drinking, and getting enough sleep. “It takes a lot of discipline to make good choices,” Ingersoll said. “Those are choices a pro makes, and Bear is a pro.” “Sleep is the most important thing,” Manescalchi said. “I just try to live a healthy lifestyle. It’s all about longevity of your body.” The Circa '21 cast of "Jersey Boys," which is the 13th longest-running show in Broadway history. The impressive song list in the show includes “My Eyes Adored You,” “Working My Way Back to You,” and the show-stopper “Can't Take My Eyes Off You.” Ingersoll got called by Circa owner Denny Hitchcock after he reached out to Playhouse on the Square in Memphis. “The director that was lined up to do this show, couldn’t do it a few months out,” Ingersoll said. “I got to learn about Circa, which was wonderful. From my point of view in terms of camaraderie, this is easily one of the most cohesive, generous, professional groups I have ever worked with on any level, and I mean that. “When you try to put up a show this big in 13 days, which no one should do by the way…if you have even one problem individual, it is so freaking hard,” Ingersoll said. “The reason this play is going to make people very happy to see it is because of the dedication, professionalism and generosity of these people here,” he said. Under veteran music director Ron May, the show quartet is completed by director Ingersoll as Tommy DeVito (until May 15), Kyle DeFauw as Nick DeVito and Kelly Brown as Nick Massi. Additional members of the cast include Sara Leigh, Bobby Becher, Derrick Bertram, Brad Hauskins, Tristan Tapscott, JJ Varik, Tom Walljasper, Molly Wiley and Rachel Winter. And the musical's ensemble includes John Michael, Hanna Marie Felver, Sophia Kilburg and Nathan Moreno, Adam Cerny and Kiera Lynn act as understudies for numerous roles. “Jersey Boys” will be performed Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 5:30 p.m., and Wednesday matinées at 1:15 p.m. Pre-show entertainment featuring the theater wait staff the Bootleggers will also precede all performances. Ticket prices are $63 for the Friday-through-Sunday dinner-and-show productions and $56 for all Wednesday performances. Reservations are available through the Circa '21 ticket office, 1828 3rd Ave., Rock Island, or by calling 309-786-7733 ext. 2.
	Celebrate Armed Forces Day at the Rock Island Arsenal The Rock Island Arsenal is celebrating the military at their annual Armed Forces Day Celebration on May 16-19 at the Arsenal. Visitors’ passes will not be necessary that day but all visitors 18+ must present a valid picture ID for access to the base. A full carnival, live music, food trucks, vendors, military displays, car show, a live wrestling show, fireworks and the annual Run the Rock 5K/10K and America’s Kids Run will make a full day of fun for everyone. Click here to sign up for the races or register as a volunteer. Admission to the installation is free but there are fees for carnival rides, games and food. There is an ATM at Memorial Park that will be available throughout the activities. The fun starts on Thursday, May 16 with the carnival open from 4 – 10 p.m. only for those who live and work on post. The Armed Forces Day opening and keg tapping ceremony will be on Friday, May 17 at 4 p.m. Packet pickup for the races is from 4-6 p.m. The carnival runs from 4 – 10 p.m. Races start a full day of excitement on Saturday, May 18. 8:45 a.m. America’s Kids Run kickoff and run events, 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. QC Cruisers Auto Show, 9:30 a.m. Run the Rock 5K/10K opening remarks, ceremonial opening, 10 a.m. race begins, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Carnival festivities, 10:45 a.m. 5K Run the Rock awards, 11:05 a.m. 10K Run the Rock awards, 1 p.m. Superfly Samurai performs, 2 p.m. Honor Among Wrestling, 5:30 p.m. Moonshine Run performs, 9:25 p.m. fireworks. On Sunday, May 19 the carnival will be open from 12 – 4 p.m. and Honor Among Wrestling takes place at 1 p.m. These items are prohibited on the installation to provide a safe environment for everyone attending this event: firearms, knives, weapons of any kind, illegal substances, clothing with obscene or offensive language. Pets, other than service animals, are discouraged.
	IDOT starts guardrail work on I-280 in Rock Island May 6 There’s more road work coming to Rock Island, this time on a bridge in the city. Work on Interstate 280 in Rock Island will start on Monday, May 6, weather permitting, according to a news release from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The work zone is from the John F. Baker Jr. Mississippi River Bridge to the Illinois 92 interchange. Workers are repairing the guardrails, so lane closures the eastbound and westbound lanes will be necessary. The project is expected to be completed by Friday, May 10. Drivers can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. They should use alternate routes when possible. Drivers should pay close 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. IDOT is planning to improve over 3,000 miles of highway and nearly 10 million square feet of bridge deck over the next six years as part of the Rebuild Illinois capital program. The program is investing $33.2 billion into all modes of transportation across the state. Accomplishments through Year Four of the project included approximately $12.1 billion of improvements statewide on 5,339 miles of highway, 533 bridges and 762 additional safety improvements. Click here for more on road construction projects in Illinois.
	QC movie house rooftop bar opens Saturday A new rooftop bar at The Last Picture House is opening Saturday, May 4. It's one of the only combined outdoor cinema and lounge in the nation, in the heart of downtown Davenport, 325 E. 2nd St. The new rooftop bar at The Last Picture House, 325 E. 2nd St., Davenport, opens Saturday, May 4. The rooftop will be open during the warmer months, seven days a week from approximately 3 p.m. to close, weather permitting, according to the independent theater co-owned by acclaimed filmmakers (and Bettendorf natives) Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. Ticketed movie screenings will be Fridays and Saturdays (and some holidays) starting around 8 p.m. (or as soon as it is dark). The new rooftop lounge overlooks the Government Bridge. The rooftop features a mix of comfortable seating options, from low-rise loungers on turf, to cushioned couches surrounding a fire pit, to bar stools and picnic tables for a casual hang with friends and family, the website says. For film screenings, seating capacity is 80 and will be general admission, first-come, first-serve. The rooftop bar is fully stocked, and the theater concession stand downstairs serves Lopiez Pizza, hot dogs, popcorn, candy, and more. If you'd like to rent the space, email carlie@lastpicturehouse.com or fill out the inquiry form on the theater's Rentals page. For film screenings and more information, click HERE.
	Moline police needs help finding 13-year-old boy The Moline Police Department is asking for the public's help locating 13-year-old Kyrese A. Rogers.
	Moline police needs help finding 13-year-old boy The Moline Police Department is asking for the public's help locating 13-year-old Kyrese A. Rogers.
	Protests in Davenport and across Iowa over new state immigration law The law makes it a crime to re-enter the state if a person has been previously denied entry.
	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.
	IowaWORKS offers a second chance Ex-cons often struggle to find work after doing their time. A local organization hosted some former inmates Friday who are on the outside again. The event focused on equipment, ex-offenders with interview skills, community resources and financial advice. This is the sixth year IowaWORKS has hosted the workshops to help prepare them for job interviews. Watch the video above for the full story.
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.

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024

Wednesday, May 1st, 2024