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Saturday, May 18th, 2024

River Cities' Reader River Cities' Reader

Former County Supervisor Endorses Challengers to Incumbents

Take a closer look at the candidates. At times it’s necessary to look at the negatives in order to change direction.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Weather heats up and so does the track at Davenport Speedway

If the first four races are an indication, it will be an interesting year at Davenport Speedway. Through the first four events, there have been four different winners in the IMCA Modifieds and IMCA Late Models. On the other hand, SportMods and Street Stocks each have a three-time winner in four races. Matt Ryan became the latest feature winner in the Outhouse and Storage to Go Container Rentals IMCA Late Models. Ryan started sixth and slowly made his way to the front. On lap 20, early race leader Nick Marolf pulled off the racetrack and into the pit area. Ryan pulled away from the field in the final laps for his first Davenport win of 2024. Josh Foster had an impressive run to finish second with Chuck Hanna taking third. Fourth place went to Andy Nezworski. Mitch Morris drove from 13th starting spot to round out the top five. Foster, Marolf, and Ryan were heat race winners. Matt Werner became the fourth different Wangelin’s Auto IMCA Modified feature winner of the season. Werner started the 20 lap main in the sixth row and leap-frogged his way to second by lap five. On lap seven, Matt got inside of race leader Jason Pershy and grabbed the lead. Once in front, Werner would not be touched, as he headed to Competitive Concrete Victory Lane. Chris Zogg drove from mid-pack to finish second. Spencer Diercks finished third, ahead of Pershy and Tony VonDresky. The D&K Home Products IMCA SportMod feature went to Logan Veloz for the third time this season. Veloz needed all 15 laps to secure win number three. Dakota Cole had led laps two through 13, when a caution flag set up a green-white-checkered finish. Cole had a .01 second lead over Veloz at the white flag. Veloz then took the advantage and drove to victory. Cole finished a close second, with Justin Veloz taking third. Josh Starr and Ryan Walker were fourth and fifth respectively. Tony VonDresky, doing double duty, captured his third straight Koehler Electric Outlaw Street Stock win. Tony wasted no time, racing from seventh to the lead in just two laps. Tony kept the car smooth and straight, finishing nearly three seconds ahead of second-place Jesse Owen. Zach Zuberbrier finished third. Jake Lund made a late race charge to fourth with Landen Chrestensen completing the first five. Daniel Wauters made it back-to-back wins in the Theisen’s IMCA Hobby Stock class. Wauters benefited from a late race caution that sent the two race leaders to the tail. Wauters was able to drive away from Jared Miller on the restart for the win. Miller held on for second with Sheldon Hunter, Justin Morhardt, and Keith Lilly finishing third through fifth, in that order. Jake Benischek led all 10 laps of the Fred’s Towing & Cantrell’s Towing 4-Cylinder feature for his first Davenport win of the season. A long way back in second was Cyle Hawkins. Third was Joe Lafrenz followed by Shawn McDermott, Dustin Munn and Harrison Horn. Friday was Law Enforcement Night at Davenport Speedway. SR Promotions extended thanks and appreciation to all area law enforcement agents and to first responders everywhere.   Next Friday, May 24, the Malvern Bank SLMR series comes to Davenport Speedway for their only appearance there this year. Also racing will be IMCA Modifieds, SportMods, and Hobby Stocks. The modified feature is also a qualifier for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational and pays $1,000-to-win. Results: Davenport Speedway                                                                                                                May 17, 2024 – 17/2024IMCA LATE MODELS - THE OUTHOUSE / STORAGE TO GO (23 entries) A Feature 1 (25 Laps): 1. 07-Matt Ryan[6]; 2. 77F-Josh Foster[7]; 3. 65-Chuck Hanna[4]; 4. 7-Andy Nezworski[8]; 5. 70X-Mitch Morris[13]; 6. 77-Joe Beal[9]; 7. 88-Evan Miller[10]; 8. 93-Chase Brunscheen[20]; 9. 54-Kasey Williams[2]; 10. 34-Scott Strauss[3]; 11. 17-Tim Simpson[15]; 12. 9G-Anthony Guss[17]; 13. 13-Michael Leal[18]; 14. 16C-Cruz Birkhofer[14]; 15. 33-Nick Marolf[1]; 16. 8L-Chris Lawrence[19]; 17. 25-Bryan Klein[11]; 18. 21M-Luke Merfeld[12]; 19. 2JR-Jesse Bodin[21]; 20. 53-LeRoy Brenner[16]; 21. 56W-Gary Webb[5]; 22. (DNS) 70-Mack Mulvany; 23. (DNS) 5-Keith Haislip Heat 1 - Top 4 Make Invert (10 Laps): 1. 77F-Josh Foster[5]; 2. 77-Joe Beal[6]; 3. 54-Kasey Williams[2]; 4. 34-Scott Strauss[3]; 5. 70X-Mitch Morris[4]; 6. 53-LeRoy Brenner[1]; 7. (DNS) 5-Keith Haislip Heat 2 - Top 4 Make Invert (10 Laps): 1. 33-Nick Marolf[1]; 2. 88-Evan Miller[6]; 3. 65-Chuck Hanna[3]; 4. 21M-Luke Merfeld[8]; 5. 16C-Cruz Birkhofer[2]; 6. 9G-Anthony Guss[7]; 7. 8L-Chris Lawrence[4]; 8. 2JR-Jesse Bodin[5] Heat 3 - Top 4 Make Invert (10 Laps): 1. 07-Matt Ryan[4]; 2. 7-Andy Nezworski[5]; 3. 56W-Gary Webb[3]; 4. 25-Bryan Klein[7]; 5. 17-Tim Simpson[8]; 6. 13-Michael Leal[6]; 7. 93-Chase Brunscheen[1]; 8. 70-Mack Mulvany[2] IMCA MODIFIEDS - WANGELIN'S AUTO (21 entries) A Feature 1 (20 Laps): 1. 93-Matt Werner[12]; 2. 9Z-Chris Zogg[10]; 3. 21-Spencer Diercks[8]; 4. 17-Jason Pershy[2]; 5. 88-Tony Von Dresky[1]; 6. 53-Matt Stein[7]; 7. 1JR-Ben Chapman[17]; 8. 99M-Charlie Mohr[11]; 9. 8C-Michael Claeys[3]; 10. 01M-Mitch Way[14]; 11. 99-Brandon Jewell[18]; 12. G1-Mike Garland[13]; 13. 5-Rob Dominacki[16]; 14. 5D-Bob Dominacki[15]; 15. 15-Paul Howard[21]; 16. 86-Jeremy Gustaf[6]; 17. 44X-Blaise Lewis[9]; 18. 3-Dustin Smith[5]; 19. 32K-Kyle Montgomery[20]; 20. 2X-Patrick Moore[4]; 21. 07-Jon Coombs[19] Heat 1 - Top 4 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 93-Matt Werner[7]; 2. 8C-Michael Claeys[2]; 3. 3-Dustin Smith[4]; 4. 44X-Blaise Lewis[6]; 5. G1-Mike Garland[5]; 6. 5-Rob Dominacki[3]; 7. 07-Jon Coombs[1] Heat 2 - Top 4 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 86-Jeremy Gustaf[4]; 2. 88-Tony Von Dresky[1]; 3. 2X-Patrick Moore[3]; 4. 9Z-Chris Zogg[6]; 5. 01M-Mitch Way[5]; 6. 1JR-Ben Chapman[7]; 7. 32K-Kyle Montgomery[2] Heat 3 - Top 4 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 21-Spencer Diercks[5]; 2. 99M-Charlie Mohr[6]; 3. 17-Jason Pershy[1]; 4. 53-Matt Stein[4]; 5. 5D-Bob Dominacki[2]; 6. 99-Brandon Jewell[3]; 7. 15-Paul Howard[7] 13 entries STREET STOCKS - KOEHLER ELECTRIC (13 entries) A Feature 1 (15 Laps): 1. 4S-Tony Von Dresky[7]; 2. 95-Jesse Owen[4]; 3. 4Z-Zach Zuberbier[9]; 4. 88-Jake Lund[12]; 5. 20L-Landen Chrestensen[6]; 6. 77W-Andrew Burk[3]; 7. 00-Rob Henry[8]; 8. 81-Cary Brown[11]; 9. 5-Austin Riggs[1]; 10. 24D-Daron Oberbroeckling[2]; 11. 29Q-Dave Wada[13]; 12. 83-Stan O'Brien[10]; 13. 31-Donnie Louck[5] Heat 1 - Top 5 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 4S-Tony Von Dresky[5]; 2. 31-Donnie Louck[4]; 3. 4Z-Zach Zuberbier[6]; 4. 77W-Andrew Burk[2]; 5. 5-Austin Riggs[1]; 6. 81-Cary Brown[3]; 7. 29Q-Dave Wada[7] Heat 2 - Top 5 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 95-Jesse Owen[3]; 2. 00-Rob Henry[5]; 3. 20L-Landen Chrestensen[4]; 4. 24D-Daron Oberbroeckling[1]; 5. 83-Stan O'Brien[6]; 6. 88-Jake Lund[2] IMCA SPORTMODS - D&K HOME PRODUCTS (21 entries) A Feature 1 (15 Laps): 1. 43LV-Logan Veloz[12]; 2. 18C-Dakota Cole[3]; 3. 43V-Justin Veloz[1]; 4. 9H-Josh Starr[10]; 5. 9W-Ryan Walker[6]; 6. 24X-Cole Stichter[11]; 7. 4G-Kevin Goben[9]; 8. X-Matt Fulton Jr[7]; 9. 71J-Justin Schroeder[8]; 10. 777-Rayce Mullen[13]; 11. 88-Trey Grimm[19]; 12. 97-Josh Geigle[21]; 13. 17-Todd Dykema[14]; 14. 39R-Rance Powell[2]; 15. X14-Randy Farrell[16]; 16. 11J-Trey Jacobs[18]; 17. 54-Nick Shrope[17]; 18. 51X-Cody Weih[15]; 19. 69ER-Ryan Reed[4]; 20. 51-Mike Clausen[5]; 21. (DNS) 36N-Joe Nemitz Heat 1 - Top 4 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 43V-Justin Veloz[1]; 2. 9W-Ryan Walker[5]; 3. 69ER-Ryan Reed[3]; 4. 39R-Rance Powell[2]; 5. 777-Rayce Mullen[7]; 6. X14-Randy Farrell[4]; 7. 88-Trey Grimm[6] Heat 2 - Top 4 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 4G-Kevin Goben[6]; 2. X-Matt Fulton Jr[5]; 3. 51-Mike Clausen[4]; 4. 24X-Cole Stichter[7]; 5. 17-Todd Dykema[3]; 6. 54-Nick Shrope[2]; 7. 36N-Joe Nemitz[1] Heat 3 - Top 4 Make Invert (8 Laps): 1. 18C-Dakota Cole[2]; 2. 43LV-Logan Veloz[7]; 3. 9H-Josh Starr[6]; 4. 71J-Justin Schroeder[5]; 5. 51X-Cody Weih[1]; 6. 11J-Trey Jacobs[3]; 7. 97-Josh Geigle[4] IMCA HOBBY STOCK - THEISEN'S HOME & FARM (11 entries) A Feature 1 (15 Laps): 1. H2O-Daniel Wauters[9]; 2. 17M-Jared Miller[2]; 3. 28-Sheldon Hunter[7]; 4. 7M-Justin Morhardt[3]; 5. 44-Keith Lilly[5]; 6. 86-Logan Gustaf[1]; 7. 4M-Karter Miles[6]; 8. 4-Jordan Miles[10]; 9. 4R-Randy LaMar[8]; 10. 8-Evan Roberts[4]; 11. 2-Kaiden Hixson[11] Heat 1 - Top 5 Make Invert (6 Laps): 1. 4-Jordan Miles[6]; 2. 4R-Randy LaMar[5]; 3. 86-Logan Gustaf[1]; 4. 4M-Karter Miles[4]; 5. 8-Evan Roberts[3]; 6. 2-Kaiden Hixson[2] Heat 2 - Top 5 Make Invert (6 Laps): 1. 28-Sheldon Hunter[4]; 2. 17M-Jared Miller[1]; 3. H2O-Daniel Wauters[5]; 4. 7M-Justin Morhardt[2]; 5. 44-Keith Lilly[3] SPORT COMPACTS - FRED'S TOWING / CANTRELL TOWING (6 entries) A Feature 1 (12 Laps): 1. 5B-Jake Benischek[1]; 2. 28-Cyle Hawkins[3]; 3. 56-Joe Lafrenz[4]; 4. 4-Shawn McDermott[2]; 5. 630-Dustin Munn[6]; 6. 158-Harrison Horn[5]

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Rock Island announces Q&A session

On May 29, Rock Island city leaders will be available for an informal Q&A session called Rock Island Unplugged.

OurQuadCities.com Why Illinois professional licenses could be delayed OurQuadCities.com

Why Illinois professional licenses could be delayed

Illinois has gotten a bad reputation when it comes to processing professional licenses, with some applicants waiting months to get their licenses. Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol Bureau correspondent Theodora Koulouvaris reports that the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the department in charge of fixing the issue, just missed a crucial deadline, which could delay things further.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Employees can participate in hiring event to recruit immigrants, refugees

Employers in the Quad Cities can participate in a hiring event to recruit newly arrived immigrants and refugees, according to a news release. "The Immigrant Workforce Job Fair –  QC's Best Kept Secret" will be held 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, May 23, at the Holiday Inn, 226 17th St., Rock Island.  Employers can register here.  The  event will offer employers the opportunity to interact and recruit the new population. They will also discuss jobs available in their businesses and review the application process. "We hope this event offers our immigrant population a glimpse of all the wonderful career opportunities our local employers have to offer," said Grace Fitzpatrick, director of empowerment programs at World Relief. "The job fair also offers our employers a new perspective on this untapped labor pool." The hiring event is the second part of the series QC's Best Kept Secret that allows employers to learn about the immigrant community living in the Quad Cities. The first informational event was held on April 18. For additional information on the event, contact Grace Fitzpatrick, director of empowerment programs, World Relief, at 563-200-1948 or email gfitzpatrick@wr.org.

OurQuadCities.com Augustana students to present Longview Park master plan OurQuadCities.com

Augustana students to present Longview Park master plan

Augustana College students will present the Longview Park master plan to the City of Rock Island Parks and Recreation Board on Tuesday, May 21, according to a news release. Longview Park, Rock Island. The plan will help guide leaders in making decisions for future upgrades and projects for the more than a century-old park, located at 18th Avenue and 17th Street. The public is invited to the 5:30 p.m. meeting at the Rock Island Fitness & Activity Center, 4303 24th St. Presenting students are enrolled in Augustana’s geography and environmental studies classes. The community-based research was spearheaded by Augustana’s Upper Mississippi Center in collaboration with the Rock Island Fitness & Activity Center. Leading student presenters include juniors Adriana Reyes and Ally Magsombol. Dr. Chris Strunk, associate professor of geography at Augustana, said urban planning and environmental studies students have assessed the use of park facilities, which includes shelters, playgrounds, a greenhouse, basketball courts and walking paths. Students also organized public input sessions and visioning activities with community members and conducted a survey of nearly 500 residents.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Community invited to Rock Island Unplugged session

In an effort to encourage open dialogue between Rock Island officials and residents, the city will hold another Rock Island Unplugged, this time featuring Mayor Mike Thoms and department directors, according to a news release. The city of Rock Island held its first Unplugged meeting in three years on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023 (rigov.org). Rock Island Unplugged will be 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, at the Stern Center, 1713 3rd Ave., Rock Island. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and panel discussions will begin at 6 p.m. Hot appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages and a cash bar will be available to attendees. The casual public-forum event allows residents to engage in a question-and-answer session with city officials and department directors outside the City Hall setting. The city has been holding “Rock Island Unplugged” events since 2018. Residents may ask any city-related questions or bring up concerns about city business, projects, plans, services, public safety and more. The public may also share ideas or suggestions they have. “We are excited to hold another Rock Island Unplugged. It is a great opportunity to meet and engage with the public,” Thoms said. “This is an opportunity for the community to ask questions, get answers and provide input.” The event will feature Thoms, City Manager Todd Thompson, Public Works Director Mike Bartels, Community and Economic Development Director Miles Brainard, Economic Development Director Tom Flaherty, Interim Police Chief Tim McCloud, Fire Chief Bob Graff, Community Engagement Manager Sarah Hayden, Parks and Recreation Director John Gripp, Finance Director Jessica Sager, Library Director Angela Campbell, MLK Community Center Director Jerry Jones and City Clerk Samantha Gange. Thoms will give an opening statement, followed by introductions of department directors and summaries of current projects or events. The floor will then be opened to questions from citizens. Resident who are unable to attend, may send questions in advance to Community Engagement Manager Sarah Hayden at hayden.sarah@rigov.org. Submitted questions will be read out loud during the event. Questions must include name, address and a contact number so that answers can beprovided after the event.

Quad-City Times Evans receives sentence of 50 years in shooting death of Zavion McNair in August Quad-City Times

Evans receives sentence of 50 years in shooting death of Zavion McNair in August

Glen Evans Jr. sentenced to 50 years in shooting death of Zavion McNair in August 2023.

Quad-City Times Following Miller-Meeks's statement, Rep. Collins shares Muscatine-China trip concerns Quad-City Times

Following Miller-Meeks's statement, Rep. Collins shares Muscatine-China trip concerns

Only a day after Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks released a statement speaking about the MCSD’s student trips to China, which first occurred in January 2024, Rep. Taylor Collins gave his own statement.

Quad-City Times Muscatine council approves a $4.8M bond sale and issuance Quad-City Times

Muscatine council approves a $4.8M bond sale and issuance

During the regular Muscatine City Council meeting Thursday evening, the council approved the sale and issuance of $4,880,000 in general obligation corporate purpose bonds and provided a levy of taxes to pay for the bonds.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Muscatine holds online surplus auction

The City of Muscatine and the Department of Public Works (DPW) will conduct an on-line public surplus auction May 20 through June 3. The items for bid contain a variety of items that were declared surplus by the Muscatine City Council. All items are available to bid on through the auction web site www.publicsurplus.com starting May 20, and running through 3 p.m. on June 3. Potential bidders can go to that website, search for Iowa, and then City of Muscatine for the auction items. You must register to view items and to bid on items.

Quad-City Times DuTrac, other Quad-Cities organizations announce scholarships Quad-City Times

DuTrac, other Quad-Cities organizations announce scholarships

Area organizations, including DuTrac Community Credit Union, Moline Regional Community Foundation and Quad-City Engineering and Science Council, have recently given out scholarships to area students.

Quad-City Times Quad-Cities business openings, closings: Wolfe It Down, Azteca 3 and more Quad-City Times

Quad-Cities business openings, closings: Wolfe It Down, Azteca 3 and more

In this week's business openings and closings roundup: a new pizza food truck opens; Azteca 3 plans to close.

Quad-City Times Rock Island man inducted into truck Driver Hall of Fame Quad-City Times

Rock Island man inducted into truck Driver Hall of Fame

Stuart Shuck has driven more than 3 million miles without a preventable accident in the last 26 years.

Quad-City Times Rock Island County Catholic Schools look to invest in future with new transfer grant program Quad-City Times

Rock Island County Catholic Schools look to invest in future with new transfer grant program

Starting this fall, Rock Island County Catholic Schools (RICCS) will offer up to $2,000 in tuition grants to transfer students for the 2024-25 school year.

OurQuadCities.com Red Cross hosts Taste on the River in East Moline OurQuadCities.com

Red Cross hosts Taste on the River in East Moline

The American Red Cross will host the 28th annual A Taste on the River Thursday, June 20 at 6 p.m. at Bend XPO in East Moline. Tickets and table sponsorships can be purchased online. Single admission tickets are $50 each and sponsorships, including eight tickets each, begin at $500. (American Red Cross) Enjoy a night of sampling culinary creations from top local chefs, enjoying live music, bidding on exciting live and silent auctions and connecting with friends at this beloved community event, which brings people together in support of the Red Cross. “A Taste on the River is a longstanding tradition in the Quad Cities – bringing together people to support the mission of the Red Cross in a fun way,” said Trish Burnett, executive director of the Red Cross Quad Cities and West Central Illinois chapter. “It is an opportunity to help friends and neighbors here in our community when they experience a disaster including home fires, tornados or flooding. We are grateful for everyone who is part of this event and supports the work of the Red Cross.”  (American Red Cross) Funds raised at A Taste on the River help deliver critical humanitarian services to the Quad Cities and West Central Illinois chapter every day. These services include providing vital resources in times of disaster, installing smoke alarms to make local homes safe, supplying over 40% of the blood needed for patients, and supporting local veterans, service members and their families.  

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Pending Death Notices for the Muscatine, May 18, 2024

Ricky L. Puckett, 64, of Davenport, Iowa, died unexpectedly on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at home. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 18, 2024

Patricia A. Nimrick, 96, of Taylor Ridge, passed away on Friday, May 17, 2024, at home. Arrangements: Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Reynolds.

OurQuadCities.com Family, friends hold prayer vigil for missing East Moline man, 92 OurQuadCities.com

Family, friends hold prayer vigil for missing East Moline man, 92

Family and friends of a missing 92-year-old East Moline man gathered Friday at a prayer vigil. On Saturday, March 30, the East Moline Police Department took a missing person report regarding William Weber, 92, 5’11” and weighing 140 pounds, missing from his apartment at the Fox Pointe Apartments in the 4500 block of 7th Street in East Moline. Weber was last seen March 29 at his apartment. Also missing is his 2012 silver Chevrolet Malibu with Illinois Purple Heart specialty registration plate 2610PR that was parked in the parking lot. Weber used a walker, and that also is missing from the apartment. William Weber and his car (East Moline Police) As the investigation into this missing-person case continues, police ask anyone with any further information to contact the East Moline Police Department at 309-752-1555, Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities at 309-762-9500, or submit an anonymous tip via the “P3 Tips” mobile app. William Weber (LEAP)

Friday, May 17th, 2024

KWQC TV-6  Quad Cities International Airport could soon be adding more routes, officials say KWQC TV-6

Quad Cities International Airport could soon be adding more routes, officials say

The Quad Cities International Airport could soon be adding more routes. Officials with the airport said they’ll be making a trip to Washington, D.C. for a conference to talk with the airline network planners about possible airline routes in the Quad Cities.

KWQC TV-6  Vigil held for 92-year-old missing East Moline man KWQC TV-6

Vigil held for 92-year-old missing East Moline man

A missing elderly man’s family continues to search for him as they held a public vigil Friday night.

KWQC TV-6  Zone Fifth Street Gang members convicted in federal court KWQC TV-6

Zone Fifth Street Gang members convicted in federal court

Five gang members were convicted by a federal jury for conspiracy to engage in racketeering activity, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of firearms and ammunition as a felon.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Arsenal Island hosts Armed Forces Day Celebration

Visitors enjoyed a carnival, live music, food trucks and more.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Inside Iowa Politics: Rep. Randy Feenstra

On this episode of Inside Iowa Politics, Political Director Dave Price sits down with Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra to discuss the Middle East struggle between Hamas and Israel, Iowa’s economy, and how his faith guides his moral code.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

East Moline police shoot armed man during confrontation

The 80-year-old man who was shot sustained life-threatening injuries, and two officers were placed on administrative leave.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Carbon Cliff reminding residents to keep their lawns mowed

Grass and other vegetation must be kept below 10 inches tall.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Allergist says allergy season is right on schedule

Catch the full interview with Dr. Mark Blaser on News 8 This Week.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Iowa senators react to DOJ's decision to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III drug

If the Drug Enforcement Administration approves the proposed rule, marijuana would be reclassified from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance.

KWQC TV-6  Galesburg door to door salespeople receiving identification badges KWQC TV-6

Galesburg door to door salespeople receiving identification badges

The City Council approved an ordinance that requires door to door salespeople to have a picture ID badge issued to them by the City Clerk’s office.

KWQC TV-6  Improvements approved for Rock Island’s Sunset Marina KWQC TV-6

Improvements approved for Rock Island’s Sunset Marina

Rock Island’s Sunset Marina is receiving improvements in the near future.

WQAD.com WQAD.com

Maintenance tips to keep your AC unit running smooth this summer

Replacing your air filter at least four times a year and hosing down the unit once a year, are the most important things to keep in mind, a local repairman said.

OurQuadCities.com Federal jury in Davenport convicts 5 for racketeering OurQuadCities.com

Federal jury in Davenport convicts 5 for racketeering

A federal jury in Davenport has convicted five men for conspiracy to engage in racketeering activity, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of firearms and ammunition as a felon, according to a news release. (Getty Images) According to public court documents and evidence presented during the two-week jury trial, Don Christopher White, Jr., 37; Raheem Jacques Houston, 30; Deaguise Ramont Hall, 34; Devell Carl Lewis, 35; and Simmeon Terrell Hall, 34; among others, were members and associates of a criminal organization or enterprise known as the “Arsenal Courts Posse a/k/a Zone Fifth a/k/a Fifth Street Mafia a/k/a Rock Town Money Getters (RTMG) a/k/a Money Team,” whose members and associates engaged in acts of violence, the release says. The Enterprise’s origins began in Rock Island in the late 1990s and early 2000s. At that time, members and associates of the Enterprise referred to themselves as the Arsenal Courts Posse. Arsenal Courts was the former name of Century Woods, a housing complex where members or associates of the Enterprise lived in or frequented on a regular basis, according to the release. The housing complex is in the 1400 block of Fifth Street. Between 2009 and 2011, the younger members and associates of the Enterprise began referring to themselves as “Zone Fifth” or “Fifth Street Mafia” continuing to represent the location of the Enterprise’s territory, the release says. "As alleged in the indictment, the principal purposes and objectives of the Enterprise were to distribute controlled substances, obtain money and things of value, and earn and maintain respect in the Quad Cities," the release says. White, Houston, Lewis, Deaguise Hall, and Simmeon Hall were all found guilty of conspiracy to engage in racketeering activity. As part of this racketeering activity, the jury further found that this group committed multiple acts involving murder and trafficking in controlled substances. Additionally, Houston and White were found guilty of felon in possession of firearms and ammunition; Deaguise Hall and Simmeon Hall were found guilty of possession of cocaine base with an intent to distribute. Sentencing hearings have have not been scheduled. White faces a maximum of 40 years in prison. Houston faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. Lewis, Deaguise Hall and Simmeon Hall each face a maximum of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal court system. Co-defendants, Devante Atwell French, Michael Linn Cross, Lashawn D. James Hensley, Ricky Lee Childs, Jr., Timothy Justin Beaver, Rasheem Damonte Bogan, Kylea Dapri Cartwright, Jr., and Cortez Deangelo Cooper, Jr. were also charged as part of the investigation. A jury trial for co-defendants French, Cross, and Hensley is scheduled for Aug. 5. A jury trial for co-defendants Beaver, Bogan, Cartwright, Childs and Cooper is scheduled for Nov. 4. “The Quad Cities community deserves to go about their days free from the threat of violence used by these defendants,” said U. S. Attorney Richard Westphal. “Whether individually or as part of a gang, people that choose to use violence as part of their criminal enterprise will be held accountable. Our gratitude to the multiple local, state and federal law enforcement officers who spent countless hours working on this investigation. Showing, as police officers do every day, that the protection of the community is their highest priority.” Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department, the Rock Island Police Department, the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation, the Iowa State Patrol, the Moline Police Department, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the Bettendorf Police Department, the Des Moines Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit here.

KWQC TV-6 Retirement community in Bettendorf hosts ‘Senior Prom Night’ KWQC TV-6

Retirement community in Bettendorf hosts ‘Senior Prom Night’

The Fountains Senior Living in Bettendorf hosted a ‘Senior Prom’ night for its residents Friday. The event ran from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and will include food and live entertainment.

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

West Burlington Police find juvenile with gun on school property

A juvenile with a gun was found on school property and now faces a felony charge, according to a news release from West Burlington Police. About 6:15 p.m. May 12, officers received a tip from a resident who saw two people walking around the area of Leffler Street with what appeared to be a gun. Officers searched the immediate area and located two juveniles walking on the property of the West Burlington Elementary School. Officers recovered a gun in the waistband of one of the juveniles. The juvenile was placed under arrest and transported to Juvenile Hall in Montrose, and was being held in Juvenile Hall awaiting charges through adult court, the release says. The juvenile was charged with possession of a firearm on school grounds, a Class D felony.

OurQuadCities.com Rock Island's next police chief is on track to have the job soon OurQuadCities.com

Rock Island's next police chief is on track to have the job soon

An era ended last month for the Rock Island Police Department when Chief Richard Landi signed off for the last time. "It's been a special honor and privilege for me for these final years to serve as chief of police," Landi said. (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) Now Landi's longtime co-worker Tim McCloud is tapped to take over. City Manager Todd Thompson nominated McCloud to run the department permanently. It's something McCloud has been pursing for decades. "It's still something that I've got to take in," McCloud said. "It doesn't seem quite real and of course it's not until I get sworn in. It's been a goal of mine for several years now and it's nice to finally see it come to fruition. I'm just looking forward to the opportunities to be in this role." (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) McCloud started his law enforcement career with the Rock Island Police Department in 1994. He rose through the ranks of the police department, serving as detective from 2002 to 2006, sergeant from 2006 to 2009, and lieutenant from 2009 until 2021 when he was appointed as deputy chief of police. McCloud has served in a variety of roles, including being the commander of the Juvenile Investigations Unit and commander of the Honor Guard. Being selected as police chief this quickly helps prove to McCloud that city leaders and police department members have faith in him to lead. (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) "I've spent a long time getting to know the citizens and getting to know the leaders of this city," McCloud said. "I think they're comfortable with working with me and I'm excited to continue that partnership moving forward." McCloud explains how he'd like to lead the next generation of officers. "This is a team. This is a partnership amongst all of the leadership here. All the way down to the brand-new rookie on the street," McCloud said. "I want to hear what everybody has to say, and I want them to feel valued and that they play a part in this."                   McCloud adds that he would strive to strengthen relationships with members of the Rock Island community. He said it's one of the ways the police department has continuously evolved over the years. (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) "Our whole community outreach has grown considerably over the last 20 years," said McCloud. "That's a good thing because we have such an ongoing relationship with the community and the citizens." He says he would build on those relationships by being present every day. "We're always going to be here for you. We want you to feel safe. We want you to trust us and that's going to be a process that we have got to continuously work on," McCloud added. "I want to be able to reach the community in every way that they need. I will do my best and I think the future is really bright for us." McCloud plans to increase community policing if he is sworn in as chief on Monday.

Quad-City Times Silvis schools' Terri VandeWiele named Superintendent of Distinction Quad-City Times

Silvis schools' Terri VandeWiele named Superintendent of Distinction

On Thursday, the Illinois Association of School Administrators named Silvis Superintendent Terri VandeWiele as the Blackhawk Region's 2024 "Superintendent of Distinction."

KWQC TV-6  Rock Island Public Library launches mental health project KWQC TV-6

Rock Island Public Library launches mental health project

"You Are Not Alone” is a three-year project by the Rock Island Public Library that spotlights mental health resources in the community. Rock Island City Council approved funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for the project.

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Rock Island County, City of LeClaire partner on pedestrian path for new I-80 Bridge

Rock Island County and the City of LeClaire are partnering on a bicycle and pedestrian path that will be located on the new I-80 Bridge.

OurQuadCities.com Fitness coach takes on burpee challenge for the Humane Society of Scott County OurQuadCities.com

Fitness coach takes on burpee challenge for the Humane Society of Scott County

Fitness coach Shelby Marsh will raise money Saturday through some extreme exercise, all to support a local animal organization. Marsh is a fitness coach at 1031 Fitness in Bettendorf. She's doing 1,000 burpees to try and raise awareness for the Humane Society of Scott County to hopefully bring more volunteers and donors to the organization. "A lot of times, the animals don't have a voice," said Marsh. "This year, it's just very near and dear to my heart." Marsh's dog, Flora, has a voice of her own, showing off her treadmill skills early Friday morning. She's cheering her mom on as she completes a 1,000 burpees challenge, all for a good cause. "I don't know if it's positively impacting that I do a burpee, but when you hear someone doing 1,000 burpees, it grabs your attention," Marsh said. "That's what it's all about. Non-profits getting more recognition or eyes toward what they're doing or what they have to offer, or how they're helping." Marsh actually has done the challenge multiple years in a row, for other businesses and organizations. "My cousin unfortunately had a really weird accident that wound her up in a children's hospital," Marsh said. "So I turned it into a fundraiser event. Then from there, it kind of snowballed into what it is today. One year it was Dress for Success, another year it was Nest Café." The inspiration behind this year's burpee challenge came from her own dog, and the work the Humane Society of Scott County puts in for animals. "They will go above and beyond to make sure the animals have a place to stay," Marsh said. "They get the attention and love, or vaccines that they need, They help them and find them a good home. That's something I'm passionate about in general. Helping whether it's humans or animals around us, I feel like we always need more of that." Providing the exposure for businesses and non profit organizations is what Marsh strives for every year. "There's been times where I maybe haven't has as much wealth and money to donate," Marsh said. "But I have wealth in my body, and just knowing I can give back in some way shape or form to get a community behind me to give back to them, is something that also I'm passionate about for myself." An event will be held at 1031 Fitness Saturday morning around 10 a.m. with members of the Humane Society of Scott County and adoptable animals. That's where Marsh will do the 1,000 burpees challenge.

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John Deere Pavilion launches new exhibit celebrating 100 years of toys

The display contains John Deere toys dating back a century, including a Barbie doll and LEGO sets.

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16th Street in Moline reopened after crash on Friday afternoon

Two cars were involved in the incident; News 8 is working to confirm if anyone was hurt.

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How to check your air conditioning unit for the summer

Experts recommend replacing your air filter at least four times a year and hosing down the AC unit once a year.

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Pleasant Valley students hold breakfast for local veterans

5th graders wrote an essay about what the American flag means to them.

Quad-City Times Man receives life-threatening injuries in officer-involved shooting in East Moline Friday; task force investigating Quad-City Times

Man receives life-threatening injuries in officer-involved shooting in East Moline Friday; task force investigating

Police were called to the Hometown Harbor apartment complex around 2:17 p.m. Friday.

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East Moline officer involved shooting at Hometown Harbor apartments leaves man with life threatening injuries, police chief says

A large police presence was reported near an apartment complex in East Moline Friday afternoon.

OurQuadCities.com Contestants have a blast in Milan for a good cause OurQuadCities.com

Contestants have a blast in Milan for a good cause

It's a sport some describe as "golf with a shotgun." Contestants showed off their skills Friday during a sporting clays competition in Colona as a way to raise funds for the Milan Chamber of Commerce. The president of the club, Tim Kelley, says that despite the negative reputation guns get, shooting is a great hobby that anyone can enjoy. Anyone is welcome to get involved in future tournaments, even if they have no prior experience. The tournament took place at the Bi-State Sportsman Association.

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Celebrating 75 years of the Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities

News 8's Matt Randazzo shows the impact the center has made in the Quad Cities community for over seven decades.

OurQuadCities.com Man, 80, taken to hospital after officer-involved shooting in East Moline OurQuadCities.com

Man, 80, taken to hospital after officer-involved shooting in East Moline

Police have been on the scene of an officer-involved shooting since about 2 p.m. Friday at the Hometown Harbor Apartment Complex in the area of 11th Street and 48th Avenue, East Moline. An 80-year-old man was taken to the hospital after the shooting, police told Our Quad Cities News. As of 5:30 p.m. we do not know details about his condition. (Victoria Frazier, OurQuadCities.com) Crime scene tape is established in the area. Our Quad Cities News will remain in contact with police to provide details when they become available.

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Tim McCloud named Rock Island Police Chief

Rock Island Police Department Interim Police Chief Tim McCloud has been selected to become Chief of Police, pending approval on Monday, May 20.

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Quad City Botanical Center opens Storybook Landscapes exhibit

The interactive experience is inspired by the storybooks we read as children.

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Rock Island road temporarily closed due to water main repairs, unrelated boil order in effect

The work area is on 17th Street just south of 31st Avenue in Rock Island. Traffic delays are expected in the area during construction.

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BREAKING: East Moline police shoot armed suspect, Moline Police Chief says

Moline Police Chief Darren Gault is the Public Information Officer for the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force and hosted a press conference on the matter.

OurQuadCities.com Eat at Moline Applebee's, help a QC library OurQuadCities.com

Eat at Moline Applebee's, help a QC library

You can eat out for two great causes Tuesday, May 21, with the Together We Care Dining Fundraiser hosted by the Friends of the Moline Public Library Foundation, and the Rock Island Public Library Foundation PALS (People Advocating for Library Services). To participate, drop in at the Moline Applebee’s, 3805 41st Avenue, on Tuesday, May 21 anytime between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m., and order from the special fundraiser menu. The two library advocacy groups will split 50 percent of all proceeds from special menu orders. Proceeds will support programs and activities at the Rock Island and Moline Public Libraries. This offer is good for both dine-in and carryout, as long as the items are on the special menu. Membership in the Rock Island Public Library Foundation PALS group ranges from $10 for students to $30 for families. Member dues, book sales, and other fundraising activities support fine-free lending and other special library programs that fall outside of the library’s carefully managed tax-supported budget, according to a Friday release. The Moline library book sale (3210 41st St., Moline) continues Saturday, May 18 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Everything for sale is by donation -- just pay what you can and take home some great reads -- cash payments only. Volunteers also assist with quarterly book sales, library beautification, library events, and other special projects. For more information, click HERE. Friends of the Moline Library supports the library through book sales, fundraising events, and grants to provide the funds used for materials, equipment, and services that the library would otherwise not be able to provide. For more information, click HERE.

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Developing: Large police presence at East Moline apartment complex

Several police officers are on the scene at the Hometown Harbor apartment complex in East Moline, with crime scene tape blocking off a portion of the parking lot.

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Iowa turkey hunting season breaks records with 16,059 turkeys harvested

The 2024 spring turkey season finished with a record 16,059 turkeys harvested, beating the previous record of 14,483 birds set in 2023.

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New display at John Deere Pavillion showcasing 100 years of toys

The new, permanent exhibit is the first time some of the toys have been put on display for the public.

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City of Bettendorf to announce names in ‘Recycling Truck Naming Contest’ at Public Works Day celebration

National Public Works Week takes place May 19-25, through the American Public Works Association, according to City of Bettendorf officials. To kick off the celebrations, the City of Bettendorf’s Public Works Department held a “Recycling Truck Naming Contest” ahead of its annual Public Works Day on Saturday.

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Iowa turkey hunting season breaks records with 16,059 turkeys harvested

The 2024 spring turkey season finished with a record 16,059 turkeys harvested, beating the previous record of 14,483 birds set in 2023.

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Check out Havencrest Castle, a place full of love and art nestled on a hilltop in Savanna, Illinois

Childhood sweethearts Alan and Adrienne St. George bought the mansion in 1976. For 31 years, the couple turned 20 rooms into 63, with each one having a theme.

OurQuadCities.com 'Warrior Women' doc shows at Putnam OurQuadCities.com

'Warrior Women' doc shows at Putnam

A documentary about Native American women will be shown for free Saturday, May 18 at the Putnam Giant Screen Theater, 1717 W. 12th St., Davenport. In the 1970s, with the swagger of unapologetic Indianness, organizers of the American Indian Movement (AIM) fought for Native liberation as a community of extended families, according to a synopsis of the 2018 film, "Warrior Women." Marcella Gilbert, left, and Madonna Thunder Hawk in "Warrior Women." It is the story of Madonna Thunder Hawk, one such AIM leader who shaped a kindred group of activists’ children – including her daughter Marcella Gilbert – into the “We Will Remember” Survival School as a Native alternative to government-run education. Together, Madonna and Marcy fought for Native rights in an environment that made them more comrades than mother-daughter. Today, with Marcy now a mother herself, both women are still at the forefront of Native issues, fighting against the environmental devastation of the Dakota Access Pipeline and for indigenous cultural values. Through their story, "Warrior Women" explores what it means to balance a movement with motherhood and how activist legacies are passed down from generation to generation in the face of a government that has continually met Native resistance with mass violence," according to a Putnam release. After the film (starting at 5 p.m.), the theater will host a Q&A with Marcella Gilbert, a Lakota and Dakota community organizer with a focus on food sovereignty and cultural revitalization. You can learn more about Marcella and the "Warrior Women" film on the Good Docs site HERE. Watch the film's trailer below. The showing is free to the public.

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Check out Havencrest Castle, a place full of love and art nestled on a hilltop in Savanna, Illinois

Childhood sweethearts Alan and Adrienne St. George bought the mansion in 1976. For 31 years, the couple turned 20 rooms into 63, with each one having a theme.

OurQuadCities.com Moline gets greener: City plants 100 trees OurQuadCities.com

Moline gets greener: City plants 100 trees

Soon Moline will offer more habitats for wildlife and shade from the sun for all its inhabitants. Our Quad Cities News spoke to the City of Moline Arborist Terry Bates and the Executive Director of the Moline Community Development Corporation Rochelle about their efforts to plant 100 trees in Moline. They say that planting trees has many benefits for the community, including aesthetics and added value to homes. (Gabe Zwierzynski, OurQuadCities.com) Volunteers, along with Moline Community Development, started planting 100 trees across the city this week. They started at Velie Park on Thursday. Our Quad Cities News checked the progress at 11th Avenue. The Carlin-Krueger says planting trees adds a lot of value. (Gabe Zwierzynski, OurQuadCities.com) Oak, Kentucky Coffee, Sugarberry, Yellow Wood and Catalpa were among the tree species that will be planted to encourage biodiversity.

OurQuadCities.com Botanical Center opens colorful new chapter OurQuadCities.com

Botanical Center opens colorful new chapter

On a gorgeous, sunny Friday, the Quad City Botanical Center introduced a colorful new chapter to its long-running story. In the growing, 10-year-old Children’s Garden, the center (2525 4th Ave., Rock Island) opened its $830,000 Storybook Landscapes. A unique nature-themed ribbon cutting at the new Botanical Center Storybook Landscapes on Friday, May 17, 2024 (photos by Jonathan Turner). The new outdoor exhibit area was carefully thought out to elicit memories of storybooks from people’s childhoods while creating new ones for today’s youth, executive director Ryan Wille said. Complete with a shaded picnic area, a QCBC story-themed photo opportunity, flower talk tubes, a millhouse, wishing well, costume hut and acting area, spider net arbor, a bedtime story plaza, a group reading structure and storyteller’s chair, there is something for both the young and the young at heart. The $830,000 project was fully funded by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Its location is right off the garden’s mini-Mississippi River for quick access and is designed to be accessible within ADA standards, leaving no barriers to experiencing the garden. The new Storybook Landscapes exhibit was designed by Eric Hornig of Hitchcock Design Group (Naperville, Ill.) and was constructed by The Weitz Company (Rock Island). Center executive director Ryan Wille speaks at the opening Friday, May 17. It was funded wholly by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Capital Museum Grant Program, Wille said Friday before the ribbon-cutting. The city of Rock Island maintains ownership of the QCBC property and leases it to the center, allowing it to qualify for the state grants, he said. A total of $3 million from Illinois DNR has supported the center Children’s Garden over the years, Wille said. The QCBC has built and expanded the Children’s Garden over 10 years and it’s become one of the facility’s most treasured resources, Wille said. “This adventurous and interactive garden, spanning almost two acres, is a perfect introduction for Quad-City youth and is often what most people think about when deciding to visit us. Record attendance in 2023 “Over its decade of existence, this Children’s Garden has been a driving force in our attendance,” he said, noting 2023 saw record-breaking attendance of nearly 80,000 people. The Storybook Landscapes will increase the center’s visitor stay time and achieve a broader range of exhibits. Plant selections were chosen for their boldness, interesting structures, colors, and playful nature, Wille said. The curved steel rainbow was a special challenge for the builders, said Blake Mosher, project manager for Weitz Construction, which built the new areas. He credited Local 111 ironworkers. Mayor Mike Thoms speaks at the Friday ribbon-cutting. “You have never seen a group of union ironworkers so amazed at trying to figure out to how to keep steel from deforming, to stay at the same elevation,” Mosher said. “These guys’ kids, their grandkids will be playing on this. It was an exciting opportunity for them to contribute,” he said. “We had to come together and learn how to be different builders and at the end of the day, it’s our hope that as people are coming through here in the future, they’ll say, how can we make it better, how can we improve on the built environment?” Mosher said. “It never ceases to amaze me how the Botanical Center continues to come up with great, creative ideas to interact with the public,” Rock Island Mayor Mike Thoms said Friday afternoon. “It is a great experience throughout the grounds here, from inside to out. They’ve done a great job.” Free books available The opening of this garden kicks off the QCBC 1,000 book giveaway. You can visit the Little Free Library wheelbarrow in the lobby for a free book. Books vary in interest and reading level, with a variety of titles available in Spanish. Books were made possible by the Rock Island Rotary Club and the Quad Cities Community Foundation - Young Family Endowment for the Quad City Botanical Center. That donation was about $1,500, Wille said. The Rock Island Public Library will host its free summer reading kickoff at the Children’s Garden on May 30, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., including 15 other local organizations and free ice cream and popsicles provided by the Gas & Electric Credit Union. Wille said the new gardens are meant to link literacy and nature. “A lot of these books are focused around nature; we’ve got multiple languages represented here as well, and we’re just hoping to connect two things we think are very vital,” he said. The QCBC was inspired in part by a botanical garden in Sheboygan, Wis., called the Bookworm Gardens, Wille said. “It’s worth a trip if you’ve never been there.” For more information on the center, click HERE.

KWQC TV-6  DEVELOPING: Police presence near Hometown Harbor apartments, East Moline KWQC TV-6

DEVELOPING: Police presence near Hometown Harbor apartments, East Moline

TV6 is on scene where there is a large police presence near an apartment complex.

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Road closure in effect on part of 17th Street in Rock Island due to emergency water main repairs

The work area is on 17th Street just south of 31st Avenue in Rock Island. Traffic delays are expected in the area during construction.

KWQC TV-6  POLICE: West Burlington Police Department arrests juvenile after gun found in possession on school grounds over weekend KWQC TV-6

POLICE: West Burlington Police Department arrests juvenile after gun found in possession on school grounds over weekend

The West Burlington Police Department said a juvenile male was arrested and charged after he was found to be in possession of a firearm on school grounds. The incident occurred outside of school days and hours, police said. They also said they want to advise there is no current threat of safety for the school or students.

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Juvenile with gun arrested on West Burlington Elementary School grounds

A juvenile was arrested Sunday night in West Burlington for possessing a gun on school property, officials say.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

On Iowa Politics Podcast: Iowa AG in New York, government transparency, and early voting underway in primary

On the latest episode of the "On Iowa Politics Podcast," featuring SCJ's Jared McNett, QCT's Sarah Watson and Lee Des Moines Bureau Chief Caleb McCullough: Brenna Bird goes to New York, government transparency advocates warn the governor, and early voting…

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Moline Double Homicide: Police continue investigating, ask for public's assistance

Moline police continue to investigate an early May double homicide that claimed the lives of two teenagers.

OurQuadCities.com Celebrate older Americans at CASI OurQuadCities.com

Celebrate older Americans at CASI

The Center for Active Seniors (CASI) will celebrate national Older Americans Month on Tuesday, May 21 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. You can enjoy cake, ice cream, punch and coffee at 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, and hear from the following speakers: Carole Ferch, Scott County I-Smile Al Loeffelholza, Quad Cities HEARTSafe Coalition Christina Kastell, Putnam Museum & Science Center Julie Nelson, Hauberg Museum The celebration will be hosted by Aaron Terrell Shivers, community relationship manager for Oak Street Health. You can RSVP to the free event (requested by the end of today, May 17) at the CASI front desk or by calling 563-386-7477.

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Dunkin' raising money for Special Olympics with annual 'Cop on a Rooftop' event

All donors will receive a coupon for a free doughnut, and anyone donating $10 or more will also receive another coupon for a free medium coffee.

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Sunny and warm weekend ahead; Storm chances early next week

Warmer by the weekend.

KWQC TV-6  Carbon Cliff: Maintain overgrown grass in ditches KWQC TV-6

Carbon Cliff: Maintain overgrown grass in ditches

Carbon Cliff is reminding homeowners that they are responsible for mowing and maintaining the ditches in front of and along their property.

OurQuadCities.com New song written in honor of Bishop Hill OurQuadCities.com

New song written in honor of Bishop Hill

When singer-songwriter Dan Holmes heard the historic state-owned properties in his hometown of Bishop Hill had fallen into disrepair, he knew he needed to do something. Dan Holmes “So, like I usually do when moved, I wrote,” Holmes said in a Friday news release. The finished product ended up being a song titled “Hometown,” which is partly a history lesson of the colony and partly an autobiographical account of a childhood spent in Bishop Hill and insight gained through a life of travel. Holmes makes a nod to the long neglected historical landmarks owned by the state, in hopes that “it might help the cause,” he said. The Bishop Hill Colony Church was recently added to Landmarks Illinois' Most Endangered Historic Places List.  Holmes began playing guitar at age 10, learning by listening to James Taylor, Paul Simon, Jim Croce and John Denver records. His music career later began to grow while attending Millikin University in Decatur, Ill. For a time, Holmes moved to the East Coast and experienced some success there, once opening for Arlo Guthrie and Pete Seeger. When his father was diagnosed with cancer, he moved home and put music on hold for a time, while he began a career in education. Years later, Holmes began performing again, including four tours of Europe, performing at the Illinois State Fair and the Susan G. Komen 3 Day Walk To Cure Breast Cancer, and writing music for the Appalachia Service Project.He calls himself an "old school singer/songwriter" who loves creating music about the presence of God in our world. He lives in Belvidere, Illinois with his wife. A recording of "Hometown" can be heard HERE. Those interested in helping the cause are encouraged to voice their concerns to Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and their state legislators.

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The Culture Report | A history of the Kendrick Lamar v Drake rap battle

This week we talk about the trend of sentencing celebrities to the 'digitine' for not speaking up about Gaza and have a powerful conversation about mental health.

KWQC TV-6  Genesis BirthCenter named one of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals KWQC TV-6

Genesis BirthCenter named one of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals

The Davenport hospital was named one of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals by Newsweek magazine and Statista Inc., the leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.

OurQuadCities.com Eldridge couple arrested for stealing from older relative OurQuadCities.com

Eldridge couple arrested for stealing from older relative

An Eldridge couple was in custody Friday after police allege they stole thousands from an older relative, court documents say. Cassandra Lynn Crafton, Miles Dwayne Crafton (Scott County Jail) Miles Crafton, 34, faces felony charges of financial exploitation of an older individual – first offense, ongoing criminal conduct – unlawful activity, first-degree theft and money laundering – acquire property, and serious misdemeanor charges of possession of controlled substance – marijuana - second offense and unlawful possession of a prescription drug, court records show. Cassandra Crafton, 33, faces felony charges of financial exploitation of an older individual – first offense, ongoing criminal conduct – unlawful activity, money laundering – make property available, and first-degree theft, court records show. Eldridge Police conducted an investigation based upon ongoing criminal conduct by means of theft, and financial exploitation of an older person (a relative,) according to arrest affidavits. Cassandra Crafton is accused of stealing money from a relative, police allege in affidavits, which show between the dates of Nov. 1, 2022, and April 30, 2024, Cassandra Crafton took and spent about $34,187.95 for personal gain while her husband, Miles Crafton, took and spent about $22,599.10, affidavits show. Cassandra Crafton "unlawfully electronically wire-transferred the stolen money to Miles through a cash app account while Miles Crafton also received the funds through his cash app account," according to affidavits. Total loss was $56,787.05. "When Miles was being arrested, he was found in possession of prescription medication not prescribed to him and he was in possession of a THC vape," police say in affidavits. Miles Crafton is being held on a $72,000 bond in Scott County Jail, where Cassandra Crafton is being held on a $70,000 bond. Both are set for preliminary hearings May 24 in Scott County Court.

Quad-City Times Five men involved in shootings during Davenport riots in 2020 convicted of racketeering Quad-City Times

Five men involved in shootings during Davenport riots in 2020 convicted of racketeering

A federal jury on Thursday convicted five members of a Rock Island-based criminal organization of racketeering after a two-week trial in U.S. District Court, Davenport.

OurQuadCities.com Jazz pianist uses music to uplift, unify OurQuadCities.com

Jazz pianist uses music to uplift, unify

From war to racism to poverty and political division, it’s easy to get depressed about the state of the world, but Lynne Arriale wants us to have hope. The acclaimed, sensitive jazz pianist/composer is returning to the Quad Cities this Sunday after several years, to play at the Polyrhythms Third Sunday Jazz Series on May 19, 2024, at the Unitarian Church, 3707 Eastern Ave., Davenport. Lynne Arriale is Professor of Jazz Studies and Director of Small Ensembles at The University of North Florida in Jacksonville. “The world really affects me. I watch the news, I am aware of things that are going on in the world and it really affects me emotionally and I want to express things through my music,” Arriale said in an interview Thursday.  “Being Human,” her 17th album as a leader, is her fourth for Challenge Records International. A suite of 10 original compositions, the disc celebrates the ways that our lives are enriched by acts of passion, courage, love, persistence, heart, soul, curiosity, faith and joy. Featuring bassist Alon Near and drummer Lukasz Zyta, the album explores these life-affirming facets of humankind. Many of the songs (each named for the emotional goal) are dedicated to people who’ve inspired Arriale, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman and Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai. "This particular album was conceived as a response to the division and the very stressful times that we're experiencing in our country and around the world,” she said. “There's lots of reasons to be anxious and depressed. My goal was look at the qualities that we share in common with our fellow human beings and focus on those and send out a message of hope and unity and positive energy.”  Arriale aims to help bring people together through music and reveal the best in humans everywhere. “It's very difficult, especially now because of the level of polarization,” she said. “This is unprecedented. But at the end of the day, if one of our fellow human beings were in trouble or had fallen, we wouldn't think twice about helping them. because know that we're all related. We're all connected.” Though all the pieces on the new record reflect positive emotions, Arriale overcame lots of challenges to get there, including writing and growing as a performer. “The process of writing itself is, is overcoming obstacles. Just like everybody else, I've had times that things were really rough,” she said, noting the death of her husband Don from lung cancer on Aug. 29, 2021. “I said, I've got to get through this, I've gotta move forward,” Arriale recalled. “A friend of mine years ago said to me, you know, Lynne, everybody has huge challenges in their life or everybody she knew. And she said it's how you get out of them that really matters. And so sometimes when we're in really difficult situations, we just have to say, OK, what do I need to do first?  “Let's just take it a step at a time. And that has worked for me.” Sources of inspiration  Arriale has won the Great American Jazz Piano Competition, and her 16 critically acclaimed albums have topped the Jazz Week Radio Charts and received “Best of” honors in major publications. She has performed at major international festivals including Montreux, Burghausen, Gilmore, Spoleto Arts, Montreal, Monterey, North Sea, Stuttgart, San Francisco, Ottawa, Zagreb, Perth, Brisbane, Rouen, and Sardinia, and has given five performances at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Arriale will perform with a bassist and drummer Sunday, May 19 at 5 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist church, 3707 Eastern Ave., Davenport. In recent years, Arriale’s compositions and albums have reflected current social issues. “Chimes of Freedom” 2020) highlights the worldwide immigration crisis and the experiences of refugees who risk everything to find a better life for themselves and their families. “The Lights Are Always On” (2022) examines the life-changing events wrought by COVID. Some compositions are named in honor of heroes, including those who served as caregivers on the front lines of the pandemic and those who defended American democracy. “I expanded that idea and to be that the lights of humanity are always on even in the midst of total chaos and devastation,” Arriale said Thursday. “And it was just a few years ago where we were in a pandemic and nobody knew when it was going to end.”  In “Being Human,” Arriale affirms the need for love, hope and unity in a world torn by the negative effects of political and cultural polarization. It is a musical inspiration to fully appreciate the incredible potential in each of us, and to best express what it means to be human. Arriale is joined by bassist Alon Near and drummer Lukasz Zyta, both outstanding, in-demand musicians on the international jazz scene.  Of Amanda Gorman (who delivered her poem, “The Hill We Climb” at President Biden’s 2021 inauguration at age 22), Arriale said: “She has such a beautiful, deep soul. She's beautiful inside and out. "And her poem ‘The Hill We Climb’ was to unify the country even in the most difficult of times. And to have someone so young have this deep of a consciousness, it is truly magnificent and in fact, several of the compositions have dedications to young people," the pianist said. "And it wasn't intentional. It just happened that way.” The men and women she dedicated her pieces to are definitely role models for Arriale.“Everyone influences me,” she said. “I learn from everyone and these young people are so special and when I think about what I was doing when I was 15, my God. And they're out there speaking their truth and standing up for what they believe in. And it gives me great hope for humanity.” “The problems in the world seem insurmountable, but hopefully we'll all get through this together,” she said. Rave reviews Iconic pianist and composer Richie Beirach calls “Being Human” an “important, stunningly beautiful, powerful musical and spiritual statement. Lynne recognizes the tough realities of the world we live in, but she chooses to highlight the positive in us. Her compositions are masterpieces that reveal the pain, love, joy, suffering and triumphs of extraordinary individuals. “Lynne is so much more than a jazz pianist,” Beirach has said. “She, like the heroes she celebrates, exudes the wonderful essence of humanity. I don't know anyone more empathetic, big-hearted or generous of spirit.” Esteemed pianist, composer and author Andy LaVerne says: “Lynne has crafted a superb selection of music which is closely tied to a thought-provoking storyline. Each of her original compositions is a well-crafted musical statement of depth and gravitas, balanced by a spirit of invention and freedom. The members of the trio interact with telepathic communication and provide the listener with a truly visceral experience. “With ‘Being Human,’ Lynne once again demonstrates her ability to assemble the finest players, write the most compelling compositions and weave melodic phrases of great emotion, clarity and creativity, all while conveying a captivating narrative,” LaVerne said. “The blend of opposing elements, such as intensity and sensitivity, drive and restraint, strength and gentleness, consonance and dissonance, jubilance and poignancy, serve to make this music uniquely Arriale. Lynne Arriale exemplifies being human.” A review in her hometown Milwaukee’s Shepherd Express calls the artist “among the most affecting keyboard stylists of the current era. Incorporation of folk, calypso, baroque classical and other genres to suffuse her already expansive artistic palette.  “Arriale's desire to pay tribute to (mostly) public figures she admires results in yet another of her trios' masterful balances of compositional finesse and lively improvisation,” the review says. “However, Being Human needn't be listened to in a programmatic context in order to enjoy its varied, enrapturing musical conversation.” She is recognized as “one of the most exciting pianists in contemporary jazz,” (The Guardian, UK). Jazz Police called her "the poet laureate of her generation." JazzTimes said of her, “Lynne Arriale’s music lies at the synaptic intersection where brain meets heart, where body meets soul. She is one of jazzdom’s most intensely unique voices." Demystifying jazz On Sunday in Davenport (featuring Ethan Philion on bass and Greg Artry, drums), Arriale will give a short talk at 4:45 p.m. before the concert. “In layperson's terms of what we're doing when we're improvising,” she said. “Often people say, what are you doing? And they don't have to know what we're doing to enjoy the music. But people seem to respond when I explain it a little bit and show them at the piano, you know what we're doing.” “I think the arts in general are so important right now,” Arriale said. “We need that soothing energy and to be engaged in something other than all the stress that's going on and all the issues that we're facing just to just take a breather.“ "I think music can take us on a little bit of a journey if we just allow it to,” she added. “I try to program many different colors and textures in the music so that we keep connected to the audience throughout the whole performance.”  She has a renewed appreciation for performing in concert the last couple years, including concluding a two-week European tour in April with her trio from “Being Human.” “I feel so lucky and blessed that people come out and hear the music,” Arriale said. “It's obviously easier to stay home, but live music and making a personal connection with the audience is a very special, very special experience in general. And artists want to reach out to their to their listeners with all their hearts and we all appreciate when people come.” The Sunday program features a social hour starting at 4 p.m.; performance doors open at 4:30 p.m., and the concert is from 5-7 p.m. General admission for the lecture and concert is $20 (no reserved seating) with free admission for children, K-12 students, and college students (ID required).

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Iowa Ethics Board launches investigation into US Congress candidate's campaign

The Iowa Unity Coalition is alleging Vine's campaign submitted over 100 fraudulent membership submissions in order to win its endorsement.

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4 Your Money | The Fed Model

Interest rates have been a consistent topic of discussion recently. David Nelson, CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management, joins us to explain the data that is worth watching and what the numbers mean for viewers’ investment decisions.

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Iowa governor pushes for new law to create state parks more accessible

Kim Reynolds signed the measure Thursday and would direct funds from the Iowa Natural Resources Commission toward making state parks more accessible.

OurQuadCities.com Cook review: Veterans help each other heal in 'Mending the Line' OurQuadCities.com

Cook review: Veterans help each other heal in 'Mending the Line'

“Mending the Line” is a somewhat predictable but enjoyable look at the plight of veterans recovering from wounds that aren’t necessarily physical. 'Mending the Line' (IMDb) The story begins in Afghanistan where a group of Marines are celebrating their last day of deployment. That is, until they dispatched for one final patrol, where many are killed and Colter, their leader (Sinqua Walls) is injured. Meanwhile, back in the states, Ike, a Vietnam veteran (Brian Cox) has a mishap while he is fly fishing. Both Ike and Colter are sent to the same veterans clinic, where neither wants to listen to what a doctor (Patricia Heaton) has to say. Colter, who wants to get back into action, is frustrated that he is required to undergo therapy at a rehabilitation facility. He cannot deal with the possibly that he may not be able to return to active eduty. Soon after an enraged Colter disrupts a therapy group, he meets Ike and Ike’s friend Harrison (the wonderful Wes Studi,) who runs a local fishing shop. The gruff Ike growls at Colter for drinking, and encourages him to learn to fly fish, which has helped Ike cope for a good many years. Colter also makes the acquaintance of Lucy (Perry Mattfield,) a librarian who volunteers at the rehab facility. Lucy, too, is working through some trauma, and she forms a tentative friendship with Colter.   I really like the friendship between Ike and Harrison – I knew of one very like it. It feels genuine. Except for the war scenes and Colter’s nightmares, the movie is a gentle one, with the beautiful environments of Montana and a gorgeous score by Bill Brown. A few times, the film strays toward a “Lifetime Movie” feel, but Cox and Walls bring it back to solid footing. The final few moments are the best – it wouldn’t be fair to tell you any more than that, except to say you may feel a lump in your throat at the end. 3 stars Running time: Two hours and two minutes. Rated: R for foul language and violence. Streaming on various platforms. Watch the trailer here.  

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Police in central Iowa charge a teenager with second-degree murder

The fifteen-year-old suspect allegedly assaulted a health center staff member in Johnston, Iowa. This attack led to the staff member's death.

Quad-City Times Helping and healing: Back in Line Chiropractic celebrates nearly 15 years Quad-City Times

Helping and healing: Back in Line Chiropractic celebrates nearly 15 years

First opening in January 2010, Back in Line Chiropractic and Massage officially moved to its new location on 2104 Cedarwood Drive Ste 202 this April.

Quad-City Times Muscatine school district, resident respond to Miller-Meeks' concerns about China trips Quad-City Times

Muscatine school district, resident respond to Miller-Meeks' concerns about China trips

This week, on May 15, Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks released a statement regarding concerns she had about Muscatine Community School District's trips to China.

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Planned dispensary under construction in Milan

Construction on Tech Drive in Milan is planned to be a cannabis dispensary and future construction is expected for a craft growing facility, a village official said.

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Workers at Davenport Starbucks vote to form union

It's the state's second unionized Starbucks, following a successful union drive in Iowa City.

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Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 17, 2024

Bruce H. Droessler, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at home. Arrangements are pending at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

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Geneseo anticipates longer timeframe for State Street project

The North State Street project may take longer than expected, possibly into next spring.

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Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, May 17, 2024

Barbara F. Switzer, 81, of Moline, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Genesis Medical Center, Illini Campus, Silvis, Illinois. Arrangements are pending at DeRoo Funeral Home, Moline.

Thursday, May 16th, 2024

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MLK Center hosts 4th annual community bike ride

Bikers took a ride around the City of Rock Island for the fourth annual community bike ride hosted by the MLK Center.

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College savings spending bill on Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's desk

The law would allow parents to roll over unused money in a college savings account to an IRA.

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Davenport schools honoring retiring faculty members

About 50 staff members are retiring this year.

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Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance holds meeting on Quad Cities Climate Assessment

A Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance meeting was held Thursday where a presentation of QC Climate Assessment was given.

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Pleasant Valley Jr. High student headed to Scripps National Spelling Bee

12-year-old Parthasaradhi Katreddy is a seventh grader at Pleasant Valley and is headed to the Scripps National Spelling Bee later in May.

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Hearing-impaired Burlington man dead after being hit by garbage truck

An Iowa State Patrol crash report says a garbage truck was backing up on Isabella Avenue when the pedestrian was hit.

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New details on future I-80 bridge

The bridge spanning LeClaire and Rapids City will have a bike and pedestrian path.

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Rock Island names its next police chief

Rock Island Interim Police Chief Tim McCloud will take over the full-time position, pending city council approval.

OurQuadCities.com The Heart of the Story: Teen racer takes on the big boys OurQuadCities.com

The Heart of the Story: Teen racer takes on the big boys

Our Quad Cities News is partnering with award-winning journalist Gary Metivier for The Heart of the Story. Each week, Gary showcases inspiring stories of everyday people doing cool stuff, enjoying their hobbies, and living life to the fullest. Stories that feature the best of the human condition. We begin this weekly series with a father and daughter dirt track team making big moves. They spent several summers on the road going from city to city and track to track. He is in the pit crew and she is in the driver's seat. They are creating memories they will never forget. Gary Metivier has The Heart of the Story in the video above, and even more about her story and what happens next on YouTube. you can also listen to the extended versions on his podcast. The Heart of the Story with Gary Metivier is available on all platforms -- and now Our Quad Cities News. Watch on YouTube | Listen on Apple | Listen on Spotify | Listen on Podbean