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

Thursday, April 18th, 2024
	Deputies: 2 men charged in Knox County fight with bat and golf clubs Two men are charged after deputies say they were in a fight with a bat and a golf club.
	World-renowned doctor to speak in Davenport World-renowned physician and activist Dr. Jim O'Connell will speak at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Davenport, Sunday, April 21, at 4 p.m. in the St. Paul Sanctuary, 2136 Brady St. In partnership with Augustana College, St. Paul is welcoming Dr. O’Connell, a Harvard-educated physician who has devoted 40 years of his life serving Boston’s homeless population. Pulitzer-prize-winning author Tracy Kidder has chronicled the unparalleled work of O'Connell and his mobile outreach clinic in his 2023 book Rough Sleepers: Dr. Jim O'Connell's Urgent Mission to Bring Healing to Homeless People. “Rough Sleepers” is available in the St. Paul non-profit bookstore for $17.50. In the 1980s, homelessness was quickly on the rise. When Boston received a grant from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation to create a program to bridge the gap between medical treatment and Boston’s homeless population, Dr. O’Connell was the doctor approached to manage and maintain the program, according to a St. Paul’s release. He chose to defer his fellowship with Sloan Kettering for one year, and the day after he completed his residency, after three years of 110-hour work weeks, he started what he believed would be just one single year, only 365 days, of running this program. After that first year was done, O’Connell realized he wasn’t ready to leave this work or this community behind. Instead, he packed his essential items into a knapsack, hopped into an outreach van, and took to the streets of Boston, armed with medical treatments and supplies, food, blankets, and a listening and empathetic ear to the city’s ‘rough sleepers,’ those who chose to sleep outside instead of in cramped and crowded shelters, St. Paul said. “This is what I was trained for. I wanted to take care of people who were sick. And, oh, my God, have I landed in a world where people are sick,” O’Connell said in the release. Led by the practical guidance of the dedicated nurses at Pine Street Inn, Boston’s largest homeless shelter, O’Connell developed a different approach to engaging with those who would become his patients, one that was outside of the typical doctor’s approach. Those first 365 days turned into more than 14,600 days, and during this time, O’Connell explored the changing medical landscape, navigating the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. In the book Rough Sleepers: Dr. Jim O'Connell's Urgent Mission to Bring Healing to Homeless People. Kidder explores the beginning of O’Connell’s career, the first 'temporary year’ of this doctor’s unexpected work, the retraining it took to find unconventional approaches to connecting with these rough sleepers, and how that one year turned into 40. Kidder outlines the five years he spent observing O’Connell and his team of devoted medical personnel, and shares the stories of the doctor and the people of Boston who changed his life.
	Junior Theatre releases plans for interim facility Davenport Junior Theatre plans to begin programs in its new interim facility at NorthPark Mall in June 2025. That’s according to an ambitious comprehensive study (“The Journey Forward”) that is available now on the DJT website HERE. The project page includes: The former Younkers site at NorthPark Mall is the preferred location for an interim Davenport Junior Theatre facility (photo by Bryan Bobb). Interim Facility Proposal Facility Input Survey (3 minute) - Take survey and provide feedback on the Interim Facility Proposal above. Program Statistic & Information - DJT staff developed these graphics to share the impact and reach of DJT programs (February 2024) Survey results from Community Input Meeting - 342 responses, in person and digital (January 2024) Assessment of current DJT facility location - Overview of scope, scale, and usage of Annie Wittenmyer location (January 2024) “This has been months of hard work from DJT Staff, Davenport Parks & Recreation Leadership, and Junior Theatre Inc. Board Members,” Daniel Sheridan, performing arts supervisor for the city of Davenport, posted Wednesday on Facebook about the plans. “It has been a relief to see thus far everyone in the community who said they were ready to carry us forward has followed through.” The historic city-owned Annie Wittenmyer complex on Eastern Avenue is to be redeveloped for affordable housing. DJT has been based at the city-owned Annie Wittenmyer complex (2800 Eastern Ave.) for 45 years, and is working with the city to find a new location, since the campus will be developed for 99 units of affordable housing, through renovations and no demolition of existing buildings. Through Junior Theatre surveys, they identified the former Younkers space at NorthPark Mall (320 W. Kimberly Road), as the preferred site for an interim facility as it works on plans for a new permanent facility. The Younkers interim space falls within the top choice area based on Community Input Survey (document is on the DJT). “Centrally located in City, with key corridor access to highways for those traveling to Davenport,” the website says, noting it has ample parking. The planned space overview for the former Younkers space at NorthPark Mall, 320 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport. There is easy drop-off at north entrance, which would be exclusive to DJT, with no general mall access Greenspace. Green space will provide an outdoor programming area for summer camps. The mall space size increases square footage compared to current DJT location (which uses 43,617 square feet at Annie Wittenmyer), allowing for continued program growth, the DJT site says. The interim theater itself would seat 270, while the current DJT theatre seats 365. At Annie Wittenmyer, DJT currently uses 12 buildings. The current complex uses are: The Mary Fluhrer Nighswander Theatre (a former 1905 chapel) seats 365. Theatre: Mainstage, Box Office, Green Room, Lighting Loft, Tech Booth Lower Level of Theatre: 2 Dance Studios, Makeup Studio, Shoe & Leotard Exchange, Dance Coordinator Office, Dance Costume Storage. Cottage 16: Acting Studio, Musical Theatre Studio, AmeriCorps Office, Sound Lab Cottage 15: Main Office, Teacher Prep Area, Theatre Coordinator Office, Performing Arts Supervisor Office, Acting Studio (Pre-K) Cottage 14: Costume Storage & Shop, Costume Coordinator Office, Laundry Facilities Cottage 13: DJT History Museum, Costume Storage Cottage 12: Technical Design Studio, Meeting Space, Puppetry Lab, Facility Coordinator Office Cottage 11: Acting Studio, Camp & Workshop Coordinator Office, Camp Storage Cottage 10: Tumble Studio, Event Storage Cottage 9: Props Storage, Props Build Area, Scenic Storage Cottage 8: Scenic Storage & Paint Shop Cottage 7: Mainstage Rehearsal Studio (JTI), Artistic Director Office (JTI), Production Manager Office (JTI), DJT Library Shop: Large Scenic Storage, Lumber Storage, Scenic Build Area The interim mall space would house all previous shops and storage for costumes, props, scenic, lights, audio, paints, etc., with space for an additional theatre studio, dance studio, expanded tumble studio, mainstage rehearsal studio, theatre tech studio, grand interior lobby, adequate offices, expanded storage and more. The current DJT layout at Annie Wittenmyer (Eastern Avenue runs along the top of the image). There would be secure restrooms for students only, not in a public space. All the new studios would be larger than current studio spaces, allowing more room for set, props, costumes and other items needed for classes. DJT enrollments are nearly 2,000 with students from 30+ cities and towns. This does not include its non-profit partner (Junior Theatre Inc.) mainstage programs which serves kids and the communities. Nor the many workshops they host onsite throughout the year. A photo from the DJT production of "Finding Nemo Jr." in February 2024. Among the projected timetable for the project: Through June 2024: engineer plans for new space and cost estimates, begin city process of approval for work July-Sept. 2024: Put construction project out to bid, award bid, and begin project preparation for space Oct.-Dec. 2024: Enter lease for existing space and start construction Jan.-March 2025: Construction continues, programming continues at Annie Wittenmyer April-June 2025: Begin draw down from current facility, finish final mainstage production, recitals, farewell celebration on May 18, 2025, finish final move out of cottages, summer programming begins at interim location For more information on Junior Theatre, click HERE.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities headlines for April. 18, 2024 In today's headlines, a boil order in Moline is now lifted, a new McDonalds location breaks ground, and a business is expected do some re-branding.
	Columbus Zoo continues to collect letters for Jack Hanna; family shares statement on health decline The zoo is collecting letters to send to the Hanna family. People close to the family says going to the mailbox is one of Jack’s daily activities he enjoys.
	Cook review: Hear sublime music in 'Lost Angel' Judee Sill documentary As a die-hard music aficionado, I was stunned to find out that, during the 1970s, I missed out on the music of an artist who has become one of my favorites decades later. A few years ago, I discovered Judee Sill’s work upon a recommendation. Her ethereal melodies and spiritual lyrics drew me in, and several of her songs are among my favorites of any genre or era. 'Lost Angel: The Genius of Judee Sill' (IMDb) Now, through “Lost Angels: The Genius of Judee Sill,” I hope her music – and her intriguing story - reaches a wider audience. As a teenager and a young woman, Sill was a felon, involved in the likes of armed robbery. She decided to pursue another career as a musician, with the hope of becoming a famous pop star. I never thought I’d get to see and hear Sill perform, but, through this documentary, I have. And I understand more now that Sill battled demons throughout her entire life. The film features another one of my favorite musicians, Robin Pecknold of The Fleet Foxes, as he performs a Sill tune. Through narratives or talking heads, we also hear the likes of Shawn Colvin, Linda Ronstadt, J. D. Southern, Jackson Browne, and interviews with Sill herself as they piece together Sill’s complex personality and incredible songs. The archival imagery includes some of Sill’s drawings and handwritten notes, some of which are animated to great effect to reflect Sill at her most talented, most hopeful, and most devastated. Take special note of “The Lamb Ran Away with the Crown.” Even if you’ve never heard of Sill before, you’re likely to be just as confounded as I am about why this song never became a hit. Better late than never, this documentary is well-earned and deserved. It deserves to be seen, and if you love music, you deserve to see it. 4 stars Streaming on multiple platforms. Running time: One hour and 31minutes. Watch the trailer here.
	Davenport Junior Theatre decides on an interim facility The program will move out of the Annie Wittenmeyer Campus in May 2025.
Wednesday, April 17th, 2024
	EF-2 tornado destroys home near New London, IA in wave of severe weather Tuesday Cleanup efforts continue in Henry County, Iowa after a tornado swept through the area Tuesday.
	St. Ambrose University cheer and dance teams celebrate national championship It was a celebration on St. Ambrose University’s campus as the student body celebrated another national championship in competitive dance and competitive cheer.
	Iowa lawmakers pass bill to make state parks more accessible for people with disabilities A bill is now headed to Governor Kim Reynolds’ desk that could make Iowa’s state parks more accessible for people with disabilities.
	Henry and Lee county damaged in Tuesday's severe weather The Holtkamp Round Barn had its steeple cracked, and shingles were also torn off.
	Davenport Junior Theatre finds a new home at NorthPark Mall The program will stay in the Annie Wittenmeyer Campus until May 2025, then start at its new location that June.
	Morning Sun house damaged by fire, crews say A home in Morning Sun was damaged by fire before storms rolled through Tuesday afternoon.
	Clinton fire chief set to retire after 35 years The Clinton Fire Department’s fire chief is set to retire.
	Here's a look at the aftermath of the severe storms that rolled through Iowa, Illinois Severe storms with hail, heavy rain and high wind impacted most of our viewing region Tuesday. One tornado was confirmed in southeast Iowa.
	Villanova All-American Lucy Olsen to transfer to Iowa Villanova point guard Lucy Olsen, who averaged 23.3 points per game in 2023, will transfer to Iowa, according to multiple outlets.
	New London community unites in aftermath of devastating tornado The town of New London is reeling after a powerful tornado tore through the area, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
	Free pet supply giveaway to be held in Burlington Free pet supplies are available in Burlington for people who need them. The city is teaming up with the Des Moines County Humane Society for a giveaway, made possible by donations from Chewy. Dog and cat food, cat litter and other supplies are available.Pet owners can stop by the Burlington Armory, located at 2500 Summer St., Friday, April 19 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 20 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Supplies are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, click here.
	New report predicts warmer, wetter future, recommends nature-based solutions The Quad Cities will get warmer and wetter in the coming decades. That's according to a new report on how climate change will impact the area.
	Niabi Zoo reducing admission for upcoming season Zoo officials said the price change is to reflect the fact that visitors won't be able to see some animals while they work on renovation projects.
	Orion's Logan Lee ready for NFL draft Catch the full interview with Lee ahead of draft night on The Score Sunday.
	Young turkey hunters in Illinois set record Illinois youth turkey hunters harvested a preliminary total of 2,006 birds during the 2024 youth turkey season, breaking the previous harvest record of 1,733 set in 2020, according to a news release. The dates for this year’s season were March 30-31 and April 6-7. A total of 6,001 youth turkey permits were issued this year, compared to 5,283 in 2023. In 2023, a total of 1,297 turkeys were taken. The top five counties for harvest during this year’s youth season were Randolph, 71; Fayette, 66; Jefferson, 63; Marion, 62; and Pike, 54. A preliminary total of 160 wild turkeys, or 8% of this year’s harvest, were taken on public land. The following table shows youth turkey season preliminary harvest figures by county with numbers from 2024 and 2023. County20242023ADAMS4937ALEXANDER2327BOND1814BOONE42BROWN3514BUREAU1410CALHOUN2622CARROLL85CASS1917CHAMPAIGN33CHRISTIAN610CLARK3214CLAY4935CLINTON309COLES73CRAWFORD3112CUMBERLAND1513DEKALB10DEWITT22EDGAR88EDWARDS1513EFFINGHAM3410FAYETTE6626FORD21FRANKLIN3634FULTON2414GALLATIN/HARDIN4433GREENE2913GRUNDY65HAMILTON4636HANCOCK2819HENDERSON139HENRY1010IROQUOIS41JACKSON4224JASPER4211JEFFERSON6352JERSEY2515JO DAVIESS2718JOHNSON2723KANKAKEE42KENDALL00KNOX147LAKE01LASALLE10LAWRENCE98LEE812LIVINGSTON43LOGAN43MACON72MACOUPIN4628MADISON3521MARION6246MARSHALL/PUTNAM1111MASON1510MASSAC2215MCDONOUGH34MCHENRY115MCLEAN53MENARD148MERCER138MONROE256MONTGOMERY2715MORGAN74MOULTRIE52OGLE1813PEORIA127PERRY4323PIATT22PIKE5439POPE2725PULASKI2314RANDOLPH7148RICHLAND1611ROCK ISLAND911SALINE2615SANGAMON135SCHUYLER2219SCOTT82SHELBY2317ST CLAIR3826STARK11STEPHENSON1816TAZEWELL102UNION3326VERMILION175WABASH55WARREN50WASHINGTON2011WAYNE4124WHITE4125WHITESIDE159WILL35WILLIAMSON4618WINNEBAGO1813WOODFORD1312Total2,0061,297
	Tornado with 130 mph winds travels across southeastern Iowa Tuesday night The tornado formed just southwest of Houghton, Iowa in Lee County. The tornado tracked northeast for 26 miles.
	New McDonald's coming to Moline The newest Mickey D's will be built near Target and Kohl's in southwest Moline. Its anticipated open date is not yet known.
	QC school connects generations with Grand Friends Day Smiles and conversations filled classrooms at Riverdale Heights Elementary School for a special 'Grand Friends Day.' Riverdale Heights 6th grade teacher David Barber works part-time at Senior Star retirement community. He recognized some students were unable to have grandparents at the school, so he invited some seniors to spend some time in his class to fill the void. That's why the school made the name switch from just 'Grandparents Day' to 'Grandparents/Grand Friends Day.' (Michael Frachalla, OurQuadCities.com) Kids got the chance to interview their 'grand friends' or grandparents and find out what life and school were like back in the day and share what school is like now. Principal Jennifer Richardson says she loves seeing her students being engaged with the older generation. "It's wonderful to have grandparents share their experiences in school when they were growing up and make comparisons to how kids are learning and thinking today," Richardson said. "Its just a wonderful opportunity to connect with our community and have grandparents experience what our public schools have to offer." "Just seeing everybody hang out and meeting other people's grandparents, saying 'hi' and learning about each other is really fun," 6th grade student Jack Jurkowski said. "We have pretty much a one-to-one ratio today of grand friends to students so everyone is able to have someone to talk with," Barber said. Senior Star resident Anne Marie Schmieder is a retired teacher, and she saw this event as a great way to connect with kids again. "I just happened to notice a student was kind of off in the corner and I thought, 'he doesn't have anybody here.' I was trying to get eye contact just to try and include him because he was kind of just off on his own," Schmieder said. "I think its important that the kids know someone is interested in them." Seeing faces light up in joy was what this event was all about "I think the grand friends enjoy it just as much as the kids do," Barber said. "It really works well on both sides. Everyone is having a good time, and they are learning from one another. " "When I see those smiles on the kids and on the grandparents' faces, nothing beats that," Richardson added. This is an annual tradition for the school that's been going on for over a decade.
	Clinton man wins $2 million lottery prize 72-year-old Mark Krogman bought his winning ticket back in November.
	Clinton man claims $2 million Powerball win A Clinton man has claimed a $2 million Powerball prize he won in November, according to a news release. Mark Krogman, 72, who is retired, claimed his prize on Wednesday. He said he felt shock and joy when he realized he’d won big. A display panel advertises tickets for a Powerball drawing at a convenience store, Nov. 7, 2022, in Renfrew, Pa. There is an $865 million Powerball jackpot up for grabs Wednesday night, March 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File) Krogman’s ticket was purchased at Clinton Liquor, 1641 S. Bluff Blvd. in Clinton, and came within one number of winning the $337.9 million jackpot in the Powerball drawing on Nov. 25. His ticket initially matched the first five numbers but missed the Powerball to win a $1 million prize. But Krogman added the Power Play option to his purchase, which multiplies the prize at the Match 5 level to $2 million. Krogman’s ticket was the only one in the country to win a $2 million prize in that night’s drawing, the release says. The winning numbers in the Nov. 25 drawing were: 27-33-63-66-68 and Powerball 9. The Power Play number was 2. Clinton Liquor received a $2,000 bonus from the Iowa Lottery for selling the $2 million-winning ticket. Krogman has specific plans for his winnings: He wants to pay off his house and possibly add onto it, help his family with needed finances, and just enjoy life, the release said. Players in $2 Powerball choose their first five numbers from a pool of 69, and another number – called the Powerball – from a separate pool of 26. The Power Play option is available for an extra $1 per play. Since getting its start in April 1992 in 15 states with jackpots that started at a guaranteed $2 million, Powerball has grown into one of the world’s biggest and most recognizable lottery games. Today Powerball is played by 48 lotteries across the country with drawings at 9:59 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. About the Iowa Lottery Since the lottery's start in 1985, its players have won more than $5.7 billion in prizes while the lottery has raised more than $2.4 billion for state programs.
	Severe weather tears roof off of Aledo church Severe storms tore through the News 8 viewing region on Tuesday, April 16.
	Gov. Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for Iowa counties impacted by Tuesday's storms Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation for several Iowa counties impacted by Tuesday's severe weather, including Henry and Des Moines counties.
	Judge sentences Chicagoan for Moline bank robbery A 55-year-old Chicago man has been sentenced to 180 months in the Bureau of Prisons, to be served consecutive to a U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois sentence, followed by a five-year term of supervised release, for armed bank robbery, according to a news release. Eric Boyd (Moline Police Department) At the sentencing hearing, the government presented evidence that, on the morning of May 1, 2023, Boyd entered a Chase Bank in Moline. He was wearing a mask and carrying a duffel bag. Boyd brandished an apparent firearm, indicated he had a bomb, and ordered employees and customers to “get on the ground," then placed the duffel bag on the counter and directed bank employees to fill the bag with currency. Also at the hearing, U.S. District Court Judge James E. Shadid found that, in January of 2021, Boyd was released early from a previous prison sentence for multiple armed bank robberies, and that at the time of this offense he was on supervised release from the Bureau of Prisons. Judge Shadid also noted that Boyd’s extensive criminal history indicated he was a risk to re-offend, that prior prison sentences had not deterred Boyd from engaging in new crimes, and that a lengthy sentence was necessary to protect the community from further harm. Boyd was arrested on May 5, 2023, and has remained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service since his arrest. Boyd pleaded guilty on Sept. 19, 2023. The statutory penalties for armed bank robbery are up to 25 years in prison. (OurQuadCities.com) Moline Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Supervisory Assistant U.S Attorney John Mehochko represented the government in the prosecution. The case against Boyd 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. 'Outstanding police work' Boyd was located at his residence in Chicago by the FBI – Springfield Division Quad Cities Safe Streets Task Force and Moline Police detectives. Moline Police and the FBI served a federal search warrant and federal arrest warrant in Chicago. “This was just outstanding police work by Detective Mike Griffin, Detective Jeremy McAuliffe, Detective Sean Hoover, Detective Cesar Lopez and Lt. Andrew Raya. While I cannot go into the details of the investigation, I can say it was great work by this skilled investigative team that resulted in a quick arrest of a suspect in this case,” said Chief Darren Gault. “We would also like to thank our partners with the FBI for their assistance on this case. Moline has had a long partnership with the FBI and we work very closely with the local agents.” (Moline Police photo) “The Moline Police Department has federally deputized task force officers working on the FBI Quad Cities Safe Streets Task Force, which makes the partnership very efficient and effective for our community.” The Moline Police Department was assisted in this investigation by FBI Springfield, Quad Cities Safe Streets Task Force, FBI Chicago Violent Crime Fugitive Task Force, Milan Police Department, Ottawa Police Department and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois.
	NWS confirms EF-2 tornado with 130 mph winds SW of Quad Cities on Tuesday The preliminary results of the storm survey team from the National Weather Service show a tornado with winds up to 130 miles per hour ripped through SE Iowa on Tuesday. The storm traveled through multiple counties as it was on the ground for 26 miles. Lee, Henry and Des Moines counties in Iowa were all affected. The tornado was on the ground from 4:25 - 5:04 p.m. At times it was 600 yards wide. Here is more from the NWS: An NWS survey team confirmed an EF2 tornado Tuesday afternoon in southeast Iowa. The tornado developed just southwest of Houghton, Iowa in Lee County. Significant damage to homes, trees, and outbuildings was observed. The worst damage occurred at a farmstead north of New London in Henry County, where the roof was removed from a brick house, one of the exterior walls collapsed, and the garage was destroyed. Numerous out buildings were also destroyed at nearby farmsteads. Maximum winds were estimated around 130 mph. The tornado continued into northwest Des Moines County and caused additional damage at several farmsteads southeast of Yarmouth before dissipating. There were no injuries. Numerous emergency managers provided valuable assistance to NWS Quad Cities during the survey.
	Introducing Galesburg's new girls basketball coach: Lexi Demott After longtime coach Evan Massey announced he'd retire, many wondered who would fill in his shoes. Turns out it was someone already in the Silver Streaks family.
	Coal Valley trivia night fundraising for local Ironman competitor Matt Jackson will head to Kona, Hawaii, for the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship. You can donate and/or attend an April 20 trivia night to help.
	Southeastern Iowa picking up the pieces after Tuesday's tornado Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation after severe weather, including a tornado, moved through numerous counties on Tuesday, April 16.
	Support Safer Foundation through Safer Sacks fundraiser Volunteers, including representatives from the cities of Bettendorf, Davenport, East Moline, Moline and Rock Island, gathered Wednesday for the fourth year in a row to build sack lunches for Safer Foundation’s annual Safer Sacks fundraiser. All of the money raised goes toward individuals served through Safer Foundation’s many local programs: Employment Services Program, Pathway Home, Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) and I-MATTER. New this year: Drive-through On Thursday, April 18, between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., customers can purchase lunches for $8 at the Safer Sacks drive through at the JB Young Opportunity Center, 1702 N. Main St., Davenport. For 19 years, Safer Foundation staff, board members, individuals served, public partners, employers and volunteers come together to assemble, promote, and sell sack lunches throughout the Quad Cities community. Each lunch consists of a ham/turkey/cheese croissantwich, chips, cookies and fruit. Proceeds support Safer’s efforts to provide a safe place for individuals with arrest and conviction records to foster their untapped potential while removing barriers to employment, education and other life necessities. About the Safer Foundation At the very core of Safer Foundation is the belief in an unobstructed road to reentry, according to the organization’s website. From its start in 1972, its mission has been to pave that road with stabilizing support, employment, education, and advocacy that empower justice-involved individuals to achieve their true potential. April marks Second Chance Month, a nationally recognized observance since 2017. It is a time dedicated to raising awareness of the significance of granting individuals with arrest and conviction records the opportunity to rebuild their lives. This month emphasizes the importance of reentry for both individuals and communities, serving as a platform to highlight the promising initiatives across the nation that aim to improve reentry outcomes. In the United States, approximately one in three adults have a criminal record. Each year, more than 650,000 individuals are released from state and federal prisons, contributing to a total of over 70 million Americans with a history of involvement in the criminal legal system. However, the journey of reintegration into society for these individuals is filled with obstacles. Securing stable employment, housing, healthcare, education, and other essentials becomes a difficult task for those with a record. As a result, nearly 75 percent of formerly incarcerated individuals remain unemployed a year after their release, according to the Safer Foundation.
	YouthHope to celebrate 88 years with celebration at Bend XPO YouthHope, a non-profit organization located in Moline, Ill. that hosts programs that create new opportunities for kids and teens to “learn purpose, build character, and grow in faith,” will be celebrating “88 years of Legacy of HOPE” with an event at the Bend XPO Center.
	Arc Industries rebranding to QC Flex There will be no changes to the services offered, which include box making, assembly, paper shredding and more.
	City of Burlington partners with Des Moines County Humane Society to distribute free pet supplies The City of Burlington is undergoing a new partnership with the Des Moines County Humane Society to distribute free pet supplies to local residents. It’s an initiative made possible through a generous donation from Chewy, officials said.
	QC Music Guild Youth Chorus marks 10 years The Quad City Music Guild Youth Chorus is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special concert Saturday, April 20 at 2 p.m. at the Prospect Park theater, 1584 34th Ave., Moline. Music director Valeree Pieper (who’s been a longtime Music Guild performer and choreographer, and her husband Kevin, and daughters Hillary and Heather are veterans) launched the program in 2014 after seeing the then-Quad City Symphony Youth Choir and Moline Boys Choir were unaffordable for many families. Both later disbanded. Valeree Pieper, left, with the Music Guild Youth Chorus at last November's Festival of Trees at the RiverCenter. “I brought it to the board and said this could be something that, it's a good way to reach out to our community and get new families involved and so the board supported it and we went from there,” Pieper said Wednesday. She worked 21 years as an elementary vocal music instructor in the Moline school district, retiring four years ago. The Music Guild Youth Chorus consists of 3rd- to 8th-grade students, including several homeschooled students, and they rehearse for 90 minutes every Monday night at the Guild lobby. Since COVID, they usually meet one part rehearsing first each week, then the second part the same night, and they come together about four to five weeks into rehearsals. Part of the Youth Chorus at rehearsal. Many kids participate over several years, and they’ve served about 100 total over the 10 years, Pieper said. Saturday’s concert features the current 28 members and for the first time, Youth Chorus alumni – 14 altogether, most in high school and two college students. “I just thought, when I realized that this was our 10th season, I thought, well, that's kind of a mile mark. So, maybe it would be cool to invite some of these kids back to see,” Pieper said. “It's amazing to me, some of the kids that have come through, their parents had no idea we were here,” she said of Music Guild (which was founded in 1949). “We've had a number of kids that, at each of my auditions, I would say 85% never had heard of Music Guild before and they, didn't even know that we were here. Part of the Youth Chorus in rehearsal. "It's really been a great outreach, and the whole idea of the open house, it was kind of one of those things it's really helped people see where we are an entity that we serve the community in a number, in a number of ways.” The chorus repertoire (in two-part harmony) is all from musical theater, including the early December concert – which features half winter or holiday-oriented musical selections. Saturday’s program (which features four songs from 2024 Guild shows) will include: “Opening Up” from “Waitress” “Soon It’s Gonna Rain” from “The Fantasticks” “Pure Imagination” from “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” from “My Fair Lady” “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” from “Hair” “Step One from “Kinky Boots” “Send In the Clowns” from “A Little Night Music” “Seize the Day” from “Newsies” “Tradition” from “Fiddler on the Roof” “Consider Yourself” from “Oliver” They do two concerts a year, and the student’s $50 fee helps cover the cost of music and student shirts, and Music Guild supports stipends for Pieper and an accompanist. Pieper leads the Music Guild Youth Chorus in December 2022 at the DKG Educational Society at Butterworth Center, Moline. The choir occasionally sings at Festival of Trees, at some churches, and once for a teachers’ group. Admission to Saturday’s concert is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under.
	Police say man stole handbags in Davenport store, punched officer in eye An 18-year-old Cincinnati man was in custody Wednesday after police allege he stole high-end handbags then punched a Davenport Police officer in the eye, according to court documents. Brandon Hardin (Scott County Jail) Brandon Hardin faces felony charges of second-degree robbery and conspiracy to commit forcible felony, and an aggravated misdemeanor of assault on persons in certain occupations - bodily injury, court records show. Handbag theft, officer assault Shortly after 4 p.m. July 8, 2023, Davenport Police responded to NorthPark Mall, 320 W. Kimberly Road, for a robbery complaint. Police allege Hardin entered a store with co-conspirators "with the intent to steal high-end purses," according to affidavits. Hardin entered an employee only area and removed high-end bags from the glass case and shelf, then tried to run toward the exit and past the last point of sale, affidavits show. An off-duty police officer present in the store attempted to intervene and identified himself as "Davenport Police" to Hardin, who then got into a fight with the officer, who was struck once with a closed fist in the left eye, causing injury. In affidavits,police say Hardin then ran from the store, got into an SUV with stolen license plates, and left the scene. Hardin "was able to remove over $2,000 worth of purses past the last point of sale before the physical confrontation ensued," police allege in affidavits. Affidavits say that, through the investigation, police learned that Hardin and the co-conspirators traveled in a rental vehicle from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Iowa to commit a series of felony thefts. Hardin, who was being held on a total $7,500 bond in Scott County Jail, is set for a preliminary hearing April 26 in Scott County Court.
	Annual search for Iowa’s ‘Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin’ begins The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) invites Iowans to nominate their favorite restaurant for the 22nd annual “Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin.”
	New McDonald's coming to Moline near Target The newest Mickey D's will be built near Target and Kohl's in southwest Moline. Its anticipated open date is not yet known.
	PHOTO GALLERY: April 16 severe storms through your eyes Severe weather passed through the News 8 viewing region on Tuesday, April 16. Here is what the weather looked like from your point of view.
	Rock Island library hosts Taylor Swift release party Taylor Swift’s “Tortured Poets Department” era will start late Thursday night. That’s when her hotly anticipated new album of that name drops, at 11 p.m. Central time. "The Tortured Poets Department" by Taylor Swift will be released at midnight Eastern time Friday, April 19 (11 p.m. Central time Thursday). To celebrate both that release and National Poetry Month, the Rock Island Public Library’s new Watts-Midtown branch (2715 30th St.) will host a free party, that will include streaming of “The Tortured Poets Department” and older Taylor hits. The free event is from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., where teens and adults alike can try blackout poetry, make friendship bracelets, enjoy music, and more. Blackout poetry will be one of the free activities Friday, April 19 at Rock Island library's Watts-Midtown branch, 2715 30th St. Blackout poetry is where you take magazine and book pages and black out words with marker, leaving just the words you want to make a poem. Other activities will include lyric watercolor art, and connecting “Animal Crossing” game characters to Taylor Swift eras, or albums, branch manager Rachel Ippolito said Wednesday. The Watts-Midtown branch display of Swift album titles with "Animal Crossing" characters. All materials will be provided free for patrons, she said, noting the Rock Island library usually holds some kind of event for National Poetry Month. "The Tortured Poets Department" follows Swift’s 2022 studio album "Midnights," which earned her awards for album of the year and best pop vocal album at the 66th Grammy Awards. Prior to "Midnights," Swift released "Evermore" and "Folklore" in 2020, "Lover" in 2019, "Reputation" in 2017, "1989" in 2014, "Red" in 2012, "Speak Now" in 2010, "Fearless" in 2008 and her debut album "Taylor Swift" in 2006. Additionally, she has released several re-recorded albums, including "Fearless (Taylor's Version)" and "Red (Taylor's Version)" in 2021, and "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)" and "1989 (Taylor's Version)" in 2023. Taylor Swift performs during "Taylor Swift \| The Eras Tour" at the National Stadium on March 2, 2024 in Singapore. (Photo by Ashok Kumar/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management) Ippolito of the library said she’s a Taylor fan, and saw the superstar in concert for the first time last June at Soldier Field in Chicago. “I thought it was really good. She performed about four and a half hours,” she recalled. “It was a workout just standing in the audience; I can’t imagine performing for that long.” Ippolito is very much looking forward to the “Tortured Poets” music, and has listened to Swift’s re-recordings as well. “I’m excited for new music from her,” she said. Burning Red, a Taylor Swift tribute, returns to The Rust Belt in East Moline on May 3, 2024. Another QC Swiftie must-attend is the return of Burning Red, a tribute to the 34-year-old Taylor, back at The Rust Belt in East Moline on May 3. The band was here last Sept. 30, 2023, and tickets for the upcoming show are (appropriately) $19.89, plus fees, available HERE. Taylor Swift -- who resumes her world tour May 9 in Paris, France -- performs during "Taylor Swift \| The Eras Tour" at the National Stadium on March 2, 2024 in Singapore. (Photo by Ashok Kumar/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management) The real Taylor returns to her world tour (at slightly higher prices) on May 9 in Paris, and has an extensive European tour before returning to North America in November, with six shows in Toronto, Canada. You can pre-order “The Tortured Poets Department” on Swift’s website HERE.
	Scott County Conservation readying for campers For more information, call 563-328-3280 or visit www.scottcountyiowa.gov/conservation.
	Gov. Reynolds issues disaster proclamation for 6 counties after severe weather After severe weather swept through parts of Iowa on Tuesday, April 16, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Allamakee, Cass, Des Moines, Fayette, Henry, and Lee counties.
	Coal Valley trivia night raising money for local Ironman competitor Matt Jackson will head to Kona, Hawaii, for the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship. You can donate and/or attend an April 20 trivia night to help.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: MACKENZIE COX, 28, 5’9”, 190 lbs., brown hair, green eyes. Rock Island County warrant for failure to appear in court on a charge of felon in possession of a weapon. CLARENCE FORD III, 39, 5’11”, 170 lbs., black hair, brown eyes. Scott County warrants for sex offender registration violation, sex offender provide false information and failure to appear in court on a charge of sex offender registration violation. MacKenzie Cox (L) and Clarence Ford III (Crime Stoppers) You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at (309) 762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	“Jersey Boys,” May 1 through July 6 Lauded by Time Out New York for its “infectiously energetic 1960s tunes” and by The New Yorker for its “well-judged humor and elegant strokes of observation,” the Broadway-musical smash Jersey Boys enjoys a May 1 through July 6 run at Rock Island's Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse, this multiple Tony Award winner a show that, according to Broadway World, “rousingly recreates the catchy songs, convoluted lives, and roller-coaster careers of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.”
	Moline boil order lifted after the major water main failure A boil order was lifted Wednesday for the northeast part of Moline, city officials said in a media release.
	Chicago man sentenced in 2023 Moline bank robbery A Chicago man charged in connection to a Moline bank robbery that happened in May of 2023 has been sentenced to prison.
	Former Naeve Family Beef packing plant up for auction Sealed bids must be submitted by 5 p.m. May 22.
	Quad City Music Guild Youth Chorus Spring Concert, April 20 In celebration of the ensemble's 10th anniversary, the gifted vocalists of the Quad City Music Guild Youth Chorus will present their springtime concert at Moline's Prospect Park Auditorium on April 20, treating patrons to delightful group numbers from past Music Guild hits, forthcoming summer titles, and shows that may just appear in future seasons.
	Bettendorf hotel group honored, growing Cambria Hotel Quad Cities in Bettendorf has been recognized with a prestigious 2023 Ring of Honor Award by Choice Hotels International, Inc., one of the world's leading lodging franchisors, according to a Wednesday release. Specifically, the Cambria is being recognized with just two other Cambria hotels nationwide with this prestigious Ring of Honor Award because of its ranking by Cambria guests in the “intent to recommend” category, which denotes how strongly guests feel about the Cambria after having stayed at the hotel. The Cambria Hotel at 5061 Competition Drive, Bettendorf, earned a "Ring of Honor" award, in the top 1 percent of all hotels within its brand. The designation is awarded to the top 1% of hotels within the brand, representing a tremendous accomplishment, the hotel release said. As one of the top-tier properties operating under the Cambria flag, the hotel has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to superior service. Award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports. Frontier Hospitality Group credits general manager Ashlei Shepherd, and “her amazing team with caring for our guests’ day in and day out to provide guests with the highest quality stay,” the company said. The Cambria opened in Bettendorf at The Plex in 2019. “The Cambria team deserves this honor which is the truest representation of Frontier’s culture and values,” Dan Huber, owner & CEO of Frontier Hospitality Group, said in the release. “Ashlei and her team live out our vision and our mission by operating a hotel our guests both prefer and refer! Our guests have strongly indicated they intend to recommend the Cambria to other guests, and this is the highest possible reward for the warm and generous hospitality our Cambria Hotel team offers each day.” Groundbreaking in Bettendorf Frontier will hold a groundbreaking May 14, 2024 for its new SpringHill Suites by Marriott hotel near Cambria, at 5235 Competition Drive, Bettendorf, at The Plex area. Frontier will develop and operate a new $17-million SpringHill Suites adjacent to the new Iron Tee Golf attraction being built in the new development at the northeast quadrant of Middle and Forest Grove roads. The new SpringHill Suites by Marriott will have its groundbreaking May 14, 2024 at 5235 Competition Drive, Bettendorf. The 80-room hotel will be a key component of the Phase 2 expansion of The Plex Area district, according to a Frontier release. It is expected to open in early 2025. This past December, Frontier also opened its new 113-room Courtyard by Marriott Bettendorf Quad Cities (907 Utica Ridge Place), next to the Frontier-owned Home2Suites by Hilton, off Spruce Hills Drive and Utica Ridge Road. For more information on the Cambria Bettendorf, click HERE. For more on SpringHill Suites, click HERE.
	Two men arrested after Knoxville fight On Tuesday, April 16th, 2024, Knox County Deputies were dispatched to a fight in progress involving two people using a bat and a golf club. Deputies were given information while en route that some of the individuals departed in a vehicle. Deputies arrived on scene and located a man with visible trauma to his face, and a woman with a laceration to her shin. The female victim was treated and released on scene by Knoxville First Responders, according to a Wednesday Knox County release. Cade Nuss, 22, arrested by Knox County (courtesy of Knox County Sheriff's Office) The male victim was treated on scene by First Responders then transported by GHAS ambulance to St. Mary’s Medical Center Emergency Room to be evaluated for his injuries. Deputies were able to locate the suspect vehicle and conducted a traffic stop where two men were located inside of the vehicle, the Sheriff’s Department release said. James Nuss, 24 (courtesy of Knox County Sheriff's Office) The driver had a visible laceration to his cheek. The driver informed the deputies he had been in a physical altercation. Cade Nuss, 22, and James Nuss, 24, were taken into custody and booked at the Knox County Jail and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Aggravated Battery, and Mob Action.
	TIMELAPSE: Storms roll through the Quad Cities News 8's Bridgepointe camera in downtown Moline captured storms rolling through the area on April 16.
	Davenport man tased during police pursuit receives sentence A Davenport police officer used a Taser on Eugene D. Hoefer when he did not comply with police commands after the pursuit ended.
	PHOTOS: Storm damage in Aledo Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage during storms on Tuesday. The roof was torn off and flipped over to the other side of the building. Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage after storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com)Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage after storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com)Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage after storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com)Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage after storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage during storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage during storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage during storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Community Bible Fellowship in Aledo suffered roof damage during storms on April 16, 2024. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com)
	Light show to the East Credit: Marta Behrends
	Burlington adds its first-ever pride parade, looking for entries "It's just one of those events that is all about inclusivity and equality and just making people feel accepted," an organizer said.
	Playcrafters needs volunteers for 24-hour benefit Playcrafters Barn Theatre needs actors and actors for its second 24-Hour Play Festival Fundraiser this weekend. They plan to have 10 writers and directors and as many actors as possible. All participants will meet in the theater (4950 35th Ave., Moline) on Friday, April 19th at 7 p.m., and will draw names from a hat for what actors will be with which directors. At 8 p.m., all will be released, and the writers will have until 7 a.m. Saturday to turn in a 10-minute play. Playcrafters Barn Theatre is at 4950 35th Ave., Moline. At 8 a.m., the director and actors receive copies of the script and will have until 5 p.m. to rehearse. The ten 10-minute plays will then be performed for the first time in front of an audience at 7 p.m. on April 20th. For audience members: • The show will take place on April 20th with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show will begin at 7, with a 15-minute intermission after the first five plays. • Tickets are $15 and are available HERE or by calling 309-762-0330 to make a reservation. • They will have an assortment of raffle baskets available and draw winners at the night's end! There are 60 available acting slots (40 for ages 16+, 20 for ages 15 and under), and 10 alternates (6 for ages 16+, 4 for ages 15 and under). You MUST be available ALL day on Saturday, April 20 to be an actor. If someone has to drop out, the acting spot will be filled by the alternates in order of sign up. Each writer will draw the name of a director, who will direct the show that they write. The director then draws the name of an actor, who will act in the show that they direct. (If a director is also acting, they will count as the first actor.) The directors continue drawing names until all actors are assigned to a show. (If a writer is also acting, they may not be assigned to their own show.) An actor from each group will then draw a genre which the script must be written in. The next actor will draw a time period in which the script must be set. Another actor will draw a prop which must be included in the show. Another actor will draw a famous phrase or quote that must be included in the script. And finally, another actor will draw a number to determine the order in which the show will be performed. There will be a panel of three secret judges that will give awards for Outstanding Script, Outstanding Ensemble Performance, Outstanding Individual Performance, and Best Inclusion of Required Elements. Playcrafters asks that all participants contribute to the fundraiser by providing the following for concessions: Writers and directors are asked to provide one 12-pack of soda. Actors (who are not writers or directors) are asked to provide a dozen individually wrapped store-bought snacks. If a family unit is participating, they are asked to provide for every two participants. Those interested in directing should sign up HERE. Those interested in acting should sign up HERE.
	Augustana names commencement speaker Higher education leader Dr. Lisa Durant-Jones will deliver the commencement address at Augustana College's 164th annual convocation on May 25, 2024. She will also be awarded a doctor of humane letters during the 2 p.m. ceremony at the Vibrant Arena at The MARK. Dr. Lisa Durant-Jones will be the Augustana College 2024 commencement speaker. Durant-Jones served Augustana as interim vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion during the 2023-2024 academic year, during which time she provided strategic leadership for campus-wide initiatives and committees. She oversaw Augustana’s Office for International Student Scholar Supports and the Office for Student Inclusion and Diversity and served as a member of the Student First Committee of the Board of Trustees. She is credited with facilitating improved processes for recognizing and addressing equity gaps within the student experience for under-represented and international student populations. President Andrea Talentino said Durant-Jones was selected for this honor for the same reasons she was selected to serve at Augustana, according to a college release. “Lisa is an extraordinary leader in higher education,” Talentino said. “Her time at Augustana was impactful and ensured Augustana continued its forward momentum in creating a more inclusive, equitable and just community. She has a deep empathy for and commitment to helping people achieve their best.” Prior to her time at Augustana, Durant-Jones served as associate vice president of academic affairs and then vice president of community and belonging at Nazareth University, Rochester, N.Y. She is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist in the state of New York and was named Nazareth faculty emerita in August 2022. Ashley Allen, director of the Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity, said Durant-Jones was a familiar face around campus interacting with students and staff. “This was a testament to how she served our institution as an engaged leader,” Allen said. “Her visibility, genuine care for our students and community, and ability to empower her team, were qualities I observed and admired as I worked closely with her. “In her brief tenure at Augustana, Dr. Durant-Jones not only made an impact, but truly made us a better community because of her leadership and devotion to diversity, equity and inclusion.” Augustana’s Class of 2024 will represent 68 majors with students from 20 states and 14 countries. A complete list of commencement related events is available HERE.
	Proper steps to take if your home or business has storm damage Proper steps to take if your home or business has storm damage
	Register to win a special prize package for your mom WQAD and participating sponsors will surprise one lucky mom this Mother’s Day with a prize package provided by our sponsors.
	Report: Quad Cities to be 'warmer and wetter' in future decades because of climate change More intense flooding, drought and hotter temperatures are expected in the Quad-Cities in the coming decades as a result of climate change, according to a new report.
	'Cultures are not meant to be gate-kept': Students explore with Davenport, Bettendorf Diversity Clubs "I want to know everything about everyone," Davenport Central senior Nhi Nguyen said. "Our community is very diverse, and every person brings something different to the table."
	Super Mom Sweepstakes 2024 Official Rules Official rules for this sweepstakes
	Rotation over hamond Henry hospital Credit: Ry
	Aledo church damaged in Tuesday storms Several storms raged through the QCA viewing area Tuesday afternoon and into the evening, including storms that passed through Aledo and Viola, Ill.
	Lightning Credit: Laurie Johnson
	Lighting in Cambridge, Il Credit: Amy Hofmann
	Storm coming into Aledo Credit: Scott Wheeler
	Lyndon streaks Credit: Christy
	Storm Rolling In Credit: Brian Meeker
	Severe weather caught on camera from news 8 viewers As we brace for spring, mother nature continues its destructive patterns of weather. Both hail and tornadoes affected several towns in both Iowa and Illinois.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for April 17, 2024 Illinois lawmakers are changing how elderly drivers are treated, and Iowa officials have a bill that would allow school staff to be armed with a gun.
	Muscatine City Administrator releases monthly report The City Administrator Report for March 2024 is now available on the City of Muscatine website under "Monthly Report."
	Muscatine dispatchers celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week This week, Muscatine County is recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and honoring its hardworking dispatchers.
	Stanley Center asks public to submit ideas for summer mural project The Stanley Center is accepting ideas for its Living Future Mural project.
	MCSA's New Beginnings gala raises over $110,000 on its 20th anniversary year The MCSA team broke its previous record and raised $116,145 with it's New Beginnings Gala, with the evening of the gala bringing in $27,475 on its own.
	Muscatine County ISU Extension to host webinar on raising sheep and goats On May 9 at 6 p.m., the Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Muscatine County will be hosting its "Small Ruminant: Starting Your Flock," webinarr.
	Illinois lawmakers creating a bill to remove the driving test for older adults This bill would remove the requirement for adults 75 or older in Illinois to take a driving test and replace them with "triggers" to determine a person's fitness.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, April 17, 2024 Carole L. Brown, 79, of Davenport, Iowa, died Friday, March 22, 2024, at Bickford of Davenport. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.
Tuesday, April 16th, 2024
	Applications open for Iowa education savings accounts Applications can now be submitted for Students First Education Savings Accounts in Iowa for the next school year. Students who went to an accredited non-public school without an account will now be eligible if their household income is at or below 400% of the 2024 federal poverty level. The residency and income eligibility will automatically be verified during the process using a parent or guardian's most recent state income tax return. Other documents will be needed to verify eligibility if a tax return wasn't filed in Iowa. Parents and guardians can go to the Iowa Department of Education's website to apply through June. For more information, click here. To apply, click here.
	Tips & techniques to protect pets from ticks While they generally stay dormant during the winter, mild weather paved the way for an early return for a tiny threat to both you and your pets. According to managers with the Quad City Animal Welfare Center, ticks are affecting a lot of animals coming in to the shelter. As Our Quad Cities News reporter Michael Frachella discovered, there are plenty of tips and techniques to protect your pets from ticks. For more information, click here.
	Aledo church sustains damages in Tuesday storms, community shows their support, pastor says Several storms raged through the QCA viewing area Tuesday afternoon and into the evening, including storms that passed through Aledo and Viola, Ill.
	Crews respond to fire at dentist office in Coal Valley Crews are on scene responding to a fire at General Dentistry, 2302 1st St. in Coal Valley, Tuesday night.
	Severe weather moves through QCA and surrounding areas Tuesday, some towns report damages Much of the TV6 viewing area was under severe weather warnings Tuesday afternoon and evening as a line of severe weather moved through the area, including right through the QCA metro.
	A new climate change report predicts warmer, wetter future for Quad Cities region The report predicts places like the Isle Casino Hotel and Vibrant Area at the MARK could become susceptible to flooding as early as 2040.
	Moline police officers plant pinwheel garden in honor of child abuse victims 22 of the gardens will be planted around the Quad Cities.
	Severe storms cause damage in Aledo A power line fell down just a mile east of the town.
	Cook review: 'Civil War' is more about journalists than politics “Civil War” probably isn’t the kind of movie you think it is. It’s about journalists trying to do their jobs during a civil war instead of being a war movie featuring journalists. 'Civil War' (IMDb) This fictional tale does make reference to the rising polarization of politics in the United States and the all-too-real politically motivated violence that brews in current times. But mostly it’s a story about a world-weary journalist named Lee (played wonderfully by Kirsten Dunst) who is part of a team of journalists following the action to Washington DC, with the aim to get there before the President himself is slain by rebel soldiers. Nick Offerman plays the President, and we see him preparing a speech as chaos erupts throughout the nation. Elsewhere, a group of four reporters includes Lee, who has made a name for herself as a topnotch reporter; and Cailee Spaeny as Jessie, a younger, less experienced reporter who looks up to Lee as a mentor and an example of what she wants to become in the future. Stephen McKinley Henderson – a terrific and too-little-seen character actor - is welcome as the oldest of the group who’s often the practical voice of reason. It’s unnerving to see the violence and destruction the reporters are there to record: Masses of bodies, people being shot mercilessly in public, and bombings are commonplace as they make their way along a journey fraught with peril. There are a couple of really intense scenes that will stay with you. One involves the group’s run-in with a violent man (Jesse Plemons) who has no problem killing anyone. Although the movie examines violence, it really doesn’t examine the politics behind it or how the United States finds itself in such turmoil. More background would have made the film even more engaging. Still, the ensemble is a good one, and it does present some thought-provoking themes for adult audiences with nerves steely enough to withstand the violence. 2 1/2 stars Rated: R for violence, gore, and foul language. Running time: One hour and 50 minutes. In theaters. Watch the trailer here.
	Crews on scene at dentist office fire in Coal Valley Crews are on scene responding to a fire at General Dentistry, 2302 1st St. in Coal Valley, Tuesday night.
	Camping season! \| Scott County Conservation announces campgrounds are opening Scott County Conservation has started opening campgrounds for the 2024 camping season.
	Crews on scene of fire at dentist's office in Coal Valley Fire crews from the area worked in rain that came down in sheets Tuesday night to control a fire in a dentist's office in Coal Valley. While rain pours down, firefighters work to control a fire Tuesday night in a dentist's office in Coal Valley. (Mike Colón) Our Quad Cities News crew saw lightning flashes illuminate the scene as white smoke rose from the roof and firefighters used a ladder truck to reach the roof to vent the building with a chainsaw. The fire started about 7 p.m. in the building across the street from the Shell station on U. S. Route 150, Coal Valley Police and Fire crews and firefighters from Coyne Center, Orion, and Blackhawk Fire Protections District, along with the Moline Second Alarmers, were at the scene. MidAmerican crews also arrived. While rain pours down, firefighters work to control a fire Tuesday night in a dentist's office in Coal Valley. Crews used a ladder truck to reach the roof to vent the building with a chainsaw. (Mike Colón) The building still was smoking at 8 p.m. Our Quad Cities News will remain on the scene to provide updates as soon as possible.
	Davenport City Council hears plans to renovate Smart Middle School Davenport City Council members learned Tuesday about plans for the renovation of Smart Middle School as part of a facilities plan for the Davenport Community Schools District. The presentation was part of a management update and mayor/council discussion Tuesday afternoon. (davenportschools.org) The district plans to provide an expansion and renovation to the existing facility to support the middle-school curriculum and integration of sixth grade at Smart. The plans are for a "house model" within the academic wings of the building. Because it's one of the buildings most in need of improvement, Smart is one of the first projects in the facilities plan. Plans include: Expansion of the cafeteria to improve efficiency for lunch Additional classroom space to meet needs of additional students and programs and to allow the "house" approach Additional gym space to improve instruction because of a larger population Improve spaces for FCE, CTE and STEM Improve site safety and logistics, parking and outdoor student activity space Removal of the Monroe Elementary building. "None of our taxes will be increasing for this," District Superintendent TJ Schneckloth said. The project will cost an estimated $52 to $54 million. Students will be able to remain in the building during construction. Students will be on three floors, with the six-graders on the top floor. In 2022, Davenport Community School District decided to close three elementary schools - Monroe, Washington and Buchanan - as part of its long-term facilities plan. Administrators said Monroe and Washington are too old and expensive to maintain and enrollment at Buchanan is too low to stay open.
	Lee County, Iowa impacted by storm, sheriff’s office reports The Lee County, Iowa Sheriff’s Office is reporting damage from severe weather Tuesday evening.
	Openings and updates announced for Scott County campgrounds and parks Scott County Conservation has announced the opening of campgrounds for the 2024 season and key updates for each park. Buffalo Shores Campground will reopen on Thursday, April 19. The shower house is being renovated and will remain closed until completion. No showers or flush facilities are currently available. Park Terrace Campground at West Lake Park is open. Some sites are temporarily closed because of ongoing construction within the campground. Staff and contractors are working to open these sites within the next few weeks. The new playground will also be completed soon. Summit Campground remains closed. Over the winter, contractors added sewer hookups to each site. They are now in the process of repaving the entire campground. The work should be completed in the next few weeks. The campground will remain closed until the construction project is complete. All Scott County Park campgrounds are open except for Incahias Campground, which is closed indefinitely due to mechanical issues. For more information, visit Scott County Conservation’s Facebook page or click here.
	Quad Cities River Bandits postpone Tuesday home game The Quad Cities River Bandits have postponed their Tuesday night home game against the Peoria Chiefs (High-A-affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals) for game one of their six-game series due to severe weather.
	Approximately 1,200 Ameren Energy customers without power in the greater Quad Cities region Severe storms caused the power outages on Tuesday afternoon.

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Tuesday, April 16th, 2024