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

Tuesday, April 1st, 2025
	Iowa lawmakers working to lower age to buy and carry a handgun It’s currently 21, but a bill working its way through the senate lowers it to 18.
	Celebration Belle sets sail for 41st season Susan Yarolem joined The Current to talk about what's in store for passengers.
	Police: Man cut driver's neck, stole car in Rock Island According to the victim, he was approached while sitting in his car and was cut in his neck before being pulled from the vehicle.
	Le Claire elementary school teacher receives My Favorite Teacher award A fourth-grade teacher at Cody Elementary School is being honored by one of her students for making the classroom one of her "favorite places to be."
	Dawes, April 16 Currently traveling the country on their "Oh Brother" tour in support of their new album of that title, the indie-rock and -folk artists of Dawes headline an April 16 concert at Davenport's Capitol Theatre, the outfit lauded by NPR for songs that are “bright, approachable, outward-facing throwbacks to the best in classic countrified rock” while also “a canvas for serious, sometimes enormously ambitious ruminations on the meaning of life."
	The Jazz Ambassadors, April 17 Lauded by legendary composer and EGOT (Emmy/Grammy/Oscar/Tony) recipient Marvin Hamlisch, who said of the ensemble “I can't imagine better ambassadors for our country,” the United States Army's premier big-band outfit the Jazz Ambassadors headline an April 17 concert presented by Quad Cities Arts, the group's April 17 Davenport engagement demonstrating why the musicians have earned acclaim both at home and abroad while performing America’s original art form.
	Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, April 12 Celebrating more than 20 years of thrilling crowds with spectacular renditions of “Waterloo,” “The Winner Takes It All,” “Take a Chance on Me,' and additional favorites, the tribute artists of Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute headline an April 12 concert at East Moline venue The Rust Belt, the show taking place just after the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Swedish pop legends' Eurovision victory,
	My Favorite Teacher \| Pleasant Valley teacher making class fun for all This week News 8's Ava Hedges heads to Cody Elementary School to give an elementary school teacher our My Favorite Teacher Award.
	April Fools’ Day posts from the Quad Cities region Here are some of the best April Fool's Day social posts from the Quad Cities region.
	Chris O'Leary and Kevin Burt, April 11 Performing in a special concert co-presented by Common Chord and the Mississippi Valley Blues Society, Chris O'Leary and his opener Kevin Burt bring a night of exhilarating blues to Davenport's Redstone Room on April 11, the former lauded as the lead singer and front man for Grammy winner Levon Helm’s band The Barnburners, and the latter a Midwestern talent praised by Blues Matters as "vocally exquisite and "musically phenomenal."
	Severe t'storm update - Damaging winds likely Wednesday morning We're getting closer and closer to our next chance for severe t'storms in the Quad Cities. We're targeting early Wednesday morning as the next time we'll need to pay close attention to the skies around the Quad Cities. The Storm Prediction Center has the Quad Cities under a "slight" risk for severe weather. There's an "enhanced risk" just to the East of town. Slight risk areas translate to a 15-30% chance for severe weather and the enhanced risk is a 30-45% chance for severe t'storms. What? The biggest threat early Wednesday morning will come from strong, damaging straight-line winds of 60 to 70 miles per hour. Hail is also possible in the morning. The lines on this map indicate the potential for winds up to 75 mph or stronger. When? This storm is operating on a different schedule than normal for the Quad Cities. Normally most of our severe weather happens in the late afternoon and evening. This time around though, the best chance for damaging winds is in the morning from 5 through 9 a.m.
	Lissie, April 17 Touring in support of her most recent album Carving Canyons – a recording that, according to Forbes, boasts “her best as well as her most mature work yet” – lauded singer/songwriter and Rock Island native Lissie returns to the Quad Cities for an April 17 headlining concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the artist also lauded by The Northern Echo for "a voice which crackles with the influence of blues as much as it does with folk, and a range and delivery that could put most rock singers to shame."
	Railroad crossings across the QCA receive funds for upgrades The State of Illinois has dozens of projects planned around the QCA to improve and reconstruct railroad crossings using money from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF). The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has approved its annual five-year Crossing Safety Improvement Program for fiscal years 2026-2030 to implement life-saving safety upgrades at highway-rail crossings statewide. The Grade Crossing Protection Fund (GCPF) and Rebuild Illinois (RBI) will distribute over $400 million to help local communities pay for much-needed improvements at over 900 crossing locations. “Illinois’ rail system is made up of more than 10,000 public crossings,” said ICC Commissioner Michael T. Carrigan. “The ICC’s Crossing Safety Improvement Plan is an essential tool for improving our state’s rail infrastructure and reducing the risk of collisions.” Preliminary data from the Federal Railroad Administration shows there were 80 collisions at public crossings in Illinois in 2024, down from 89 in 2023. State funding from the GCPF and RBI allows Illinois communities to address safety concerns and rising project costs. The five-year plan offers GCPF dollars to help cover 26 highway bridges, eight pedestrian projects, 358 warning device upgrades and 571 low-cost improvements at 963 crossing locations. Projects include upgrades to lighting, gates, and automatic warning devices; grade separation construction and reconstruction; pedestrian gate installation; and separating pedestrian crossings from rail tracks. “Track tragedies are preventable tragedies. Knowing how to make safe decisions around train tracks can be lifesaving information. In an emergency, always get off the tracks, then look for the blue and white sign,” said ICC Rail Safety Specialist Aisha Jackson. Projects are prioritized by the ICC based on factors including safety of the existing crossing, collision history, traffic volume, engineering requirements and geographical location. The ICC also promotes “The Three E’s” of railroad safety: Education through Operation Lifesaver Illinois; Enforcementof existing laws to ensure motorists and pedestrians obey rail safety laws; and Engineering necessary to make crossings as physically and operationally safe as possible. Click here for information on projects in Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and other Illinois counties that will happen between now and fiscal year 2030.
	Fust, April 12 With their March release Big Ugly hailed by Americana Highways as "a big, riffy record full of Southern observations" that "may just end up being this year’s best album," the alternative-country talents of Fust headline an April 12 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the musicians from North Carolina also praised by Post-Trash for their "inescapable sense of wonder and excitement that's both exhilarating and full of charm."
	LEYA, April 14 Delivering what Pitchfork described as "ambient music that's eerie, beckoning, and tinged with horror." the Brooklyn-based duo of harpist Marilu Donovan and vocalist/violinist Adam Markiewicz bring their outfit LEYA to Davenport's Raccoon Motel on April 16, The Guardian hailing the pair for producing "music that sounds simultaneously 300 years old and somewhere from the distant future."
	Olive Klug, April 16 With the artist's 2023 debut Don't You Dare Make Me Jaded lauded by Americana UK as "highly accomplished and noteworthy" and its creator "a voice to reckon with," contemporary-folk singer/songwriter Olive Klug headlines an April 16 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the artist touring in support of their upcoming April album Lost Dog and currently amassing more than 8 million streams on tracks including “Raining In June."
	The Nova Singers' “Come to the Woods,” April 12 and 13 As the largest and longest living plant on earth, trees have inspired art for centuries. And in celebration of spring, the area's professional vocal ensemble the Nova Singers invites patrons to experience the beauty and wonder of trees through song in the group's 2024-25 season closer Come to the Woods, being performed at Galesburg's First Lutheran Church on April 12 and Davenport's First Presbyterian Church on April 13.
	The Bob Mould Band, April 15 Touring in support of his new album Here We Go Crazy, a recording that Rolling Stone raved "mixes raw power and deep honesty," iconic alternative rocker Bob Gould and his band open the 2025 season at Maquoketa's Codfish Hollow Barn, their April 15 concert treating fans to a night with the artist principally known for his work as guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for Hüsker Dü in the 1980s and Sugar in the 1990s.
	“Animaniacs: In Concert,” April 12 Boasting the talents of Emmy Award-winning composer Randy Rogel on piano and the vocal talents of Emmy winner Rob Paulsen (famed for voicing Yakko and Pinky on Animaniacs and Raphael on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), the touring sensation Animaniacs in Concert lands at Galesburg's Orpheum Theatre on April 12, the show delivering a zany, animany, totally insanely time as Rogel and Paulsen perform popular songs from the beloved cartoon series backed by the original projected animation.
	Davenport Community School District debuts weapons detection system Officials offered a run through of the process Tuesday at Davenport Central High School.
	The University of Iowa School of Music's “Rita” and “La colombe,” April 11 through 13 Closing the University of Iowa School of Music's 2024-25 opera season with a trio of ravishing performances April 11 through 13, the Coralville Center for the Performing Arts will house a pair of obscure yet treasured pieces that have enjoyed a recent resurgence: Gaetano Donizetti’s Rita, a darkly comic look at power dynamics in relationships, and La Colombe, in which Charles Gounod’s sparkling score accompanies a farcical tale of seduction.
	Curator Talk for “Marvin Cone: Painter,” April 17 Featuring paintings both from the museum's collection and on loan, the Figge Art Museum's current exhibition Marvin Cone: Painter celebrates this exceptional artist and teacher who pursued artmaking for more than 50 years, and in an April 17 Curator Talk, the Davenport venue's senior co-curator Vanessa Sage will speak about the artist, his long career, and the evolution of his style.
	Ballet Quad Cities' “The Firebird” and “La Création du monde,” April 12 Even if you've previously seen Lyon's takes on The Firebird and La Création du monde, which will enjoy two stagings at Davenport's Adler Theatre on April 12, you won't have seen them quite the way you soon will.
	Parallel Brewery Collective works to get more Iowa craft beverages on shelves Four of Iowa’s top craft beverage brands are working together to bring the best Iowa craft beverages to more shelves, bars and consumers. Mississippi River Distilling Company is a full member of the Parallel Brewery Collective, a partnership with SingleSpeed Brewing, Backpocket Brewing and Five Cities Brewing. This collective will streamline access to top-tier Iowa craft beer and spirits through a single point of contact. This creates new sales opportunities and opens doors for all the partners, while each business stays independently owned. “This is about great Iowa companies working together to make it easier for people to experience the incredible products we create,” said Ryan Burchett, owner and founder of Mississippi River Distilling Company. “By joining the Parallel Brewery Collective, we’re not just sharing resources—we’re creating a powerful opportunity for retailers to carry the best of Iowa craft under one roof. It’s a win-win for everyone.” The Parallel Brewery Collective makes the ordering process easier for retailers by offering access to a curated selection of Iowa’s best craft spirits and beers through a unified sales team. This will open doors for breweries to retail partners already carrying Mississippi River Distilling Company’s spirits. The distillery can access new markets that are familiar with the Iowa beers. Parallel Brewery Collective “We’ve heard from retailers time and again that they want to work with local brands, but managing multiple vendors can be a challenge,” said Dave Morgan, founder of SingleSpeed Brewing. “With this collective, we’re simplifying that process while giving retailers an easy way to showcase the best craft beverages Iowa has to offer.” “This is about working smarter,” said Aaron Vargas of Backpocket Brewing. “By joining forces, we’re creating more opportunities to reach customers who love craft beverages. With Mississippi River Distilling Company on board, we’re offering something no one else is—an easy way to stock premium Iowa beer and spirits from one team that understands the market.” (Getty Images) “Our brands are stronger together,” said Nick Cervine of Five Cities Brewing. “Retailers know and trust these names, and now we’re making it easier for them to get all their favorite Iowa products in one place. This partnership gives us a major advantage in a competitive market while preserving the independence that makes us unique.” “This partnership is about putting great products in front of more people,” said Nick Bandy, director for the Parallel Brewery Collective. “We’re breaking down barriers for retailers and expanding access for our brands. Together, we’re bringing the best of Iowa craft to more fans.” “At Mississippi River Distilling Company, we’ve always believed in the power of collaboration,” said Burchett. “This is an opportunity for growth that we couldn’t achieve on our own. It’s about amplifying our impact and working with people we respect to push the boundaries of what’s possible. With these great Iowa brands, we’re building a stronger, more innovative future for craft beverages while maintaining our independence.”
	Stavros Halkias, April 12 Having made Vulture’s 2023 list of “Comedians You Should and Will Know,” and having been identified by GQ as “at the front of a new wave of comedians," Stavros Halkias brings his tour to Davenport's Capitol Theatre on April 12, the funnyman also noted for being a founding member of the popular podcast Cum Town and appearing in Steven Soderbergh’s sci-fi series Command Z.
	Eiren Caffall, April 14 With Kirkus calling her 2025 novel All the Water in the World "gripping, beautifully descriptive, and likely to stay with you," its author Eiren Caffall will be the featured guest in the Archway Reading and Lecture Series at the University of Dubuque, her April 14 reading and subsequent Q&A session taking place in the campus' Multicultural Student Center at the Peter and Susan Smith Welcome Center.
	Eastern Iowa Community College names next Chancellor Eastern Iowa Community College named Bryan Renfro, PhD as the next Chancellor during a special board meeting on Tuesday.
	St. Ambrose Dance Marathon to fund NICU expansion at Stead Family Children's Hospital in Iowa City Over 100 St. Ambrose University students and other supporters will put on their dancing shoes to fight pediatric illness at SAU Dance Marathon’s 13th Annual Big Event. The marathon will be at the Rogalski Center Ballroom at St. Ambrose University, 518 West Locust Street in Davenport. The 13.1 hour event starts on Saturday, April 5 and raises funds for the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City, the closest children’s hospital within the Children’s Miracle Network. Events will take place throughout the marathon. Last year’s marathon raised over $192,831 and the organization has raised over $2 million over 12 years. This year’s fundraising ends at 11:59 p.m. on April 5. The total will be revealed at midnight, after a full day of celebration of local kids who receive treatment at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The event is open to students, alumni, sponsors, faculty, staff, volunteers and the SAUDM miracle families. Registration is still open; click here to sign up. Late registers will not receive a t-shirt. Participants will be on their feet for 13.1 hours, from 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5 to 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 6 to celebrate the lives of the children being treated at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital and their families. Proceeds from marathons have helped fund the Food For Families Program, Child Life Resource Space, NICU equipment, a brand-new inclusive playground for the UI Center for Disabilities and Development, research and training for Ponseti International and resources for the General Nursing Fund. Funds raised this year will go toward a general NICU Expansion. The hospital hosts Iowa’s only Level 4 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), the highest level recognized by the American Academy of Pediatrics. A Level 4 designation means the NICU is equipped to care for the tiniest and most critically ill babies and offers the widest range of neonatal services and support. In addition, the hospital has the only nationally ranked neonatology program in Iowa. Click here to donate to the marathon.
	Widespread firings start at federal health agencies including many in leadership Staffers began receiving termination notices this morning as part of a major restructuring at HHS. Some senior leadership are on their way out too.
	Widespread firings start at federal health agencies including many in leadership Staffers began receiving termination notices this morning as part of a major restructuring at HHS. Some senior leadership are on their way out too.
	‘Last laugh’: Muscatine Assistant Fire Chief retires on April Fool’s Day A retirement celebration was held from 12-2 p.m. on Tuesday at the Muscatine Public Safety Building.
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges hires Bryan Renfro as new chancellor Bryan Renfro is the president of John Wood Community College in Quincy, Illinois, and touts 20 years of higher education experience.
	EICC names new Chancelor Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) has a new Chancellor. Bryan Renfro, PhD, was appointed the next Chancellor following a special board meeting on April 1. Renfro currently serves as the President of John Wood Community College in Quincy and has over 20 years of experience in community college leadership, academic instruction and workforce development. Renfro’s career focus has been to expand educational access and strengthen connections between community colleges, local industry and the community. Before serving as President at John Wood, he held leadership roles at Paris Junior College and Tyler Junior College in Texas, including Vice President of Academic Instruction, Associate Vice Provost of Academic and Workforce Affairs and Dean of Professional and Technical Programs. Renfro has also worked at Hawkeye Community College and Colorado Mountain College. Renfro has taught anthropology and criminal justice courses and served as a department chair. He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education from Iowa State University, with a focus on Community College Leadership; a master’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Arkansas and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Tennessee. Larry Ebers, PhD, led the search for EICC’s next Chancellor. District stakeholders took part in forums and gave valuable feedback to help the search committee select the right leader for the college. Bryan Renfro (EICC) “Through a thoughtful and inclusive process, we have selected Bryan Renfro to lead EICC into its next chapter,” said Michelle Garvin, Board of Trustees Member and Chair of the Search Committee. “I’m confident his leadership experience, commitment to community engagement, and passion for student success make him the ideal person to build on our strong foundation. We also want to thank everyone who participated, including our search committee and those who attended forums and provided their feedback. Their input was invaluable.” “Throughout my career, as a faculty member and administrator, I’ve been guided by a student-first philosophy,” Renfro said. “I will continue this approach in a collaborative spirit, with a strategic focus, and with the utmost respect for the transformative power of the community college to change lives. I promise to be a thoughtful steward of this college and of the public resources entrusted to us. I will work to ensure that education remains accessible and affordable, and I will strive to foster innovation that expands partnerships, develops new academic programs, and enhances the support systems our students need to succeed.” Renfro starts his role as Chancellor on July 1, succeeding Interim Chancellor Liang Chee Wee, PhD.
	Whirlpool in Amana to layoff 650 workers Whirlpool in Amana confirmed it is laying off 650 workers.
	Monmouth man charged with Sunday stabbing and car theft in Rock Island A Monmouth man is accused of stabbing a man before taking his car Sunday in Rock Island. The victim had a non-life threatening wound.
	Monmouth man arrested after violent carjacking in Rock Island According to the victim, he was approached while sitting in his car and was cut in his neck before being pulled from the vehicle.
	Rock Island woman arrested; accused of theft against older person A woman from Rock Island is in the Scott County Jail after police say she took over $10,000 in jewelry from an older person she was paid to care for. Janna Robinson (Scott County Jail) The criminal complaint says Davenport Police received an online report of stolen jewelry on June 24, 2024 from a residence in the 200 block of Wynnewood Court. The defendant, identified as Janna Robinson, 53, was a paid, in-home caretaker for the victim, who is an older individual. Robinson is accused of taking multiple items of jewelry belonging to the victim without the victim's consent. Robinson allegedly removed the items from the residence and sold them through a series of transactions at local pawn shops for a profit. The value of the stolen property exceeds $10,000. A warrant was issued on November 5, 2024 for Robinson’s arrest and it was served on March 31. She was arrested on one count of felony dependent adult abuse and felony theft against an older individual. She is being held in the Scott County Jail on a $20,000 cash-only bond and has a preliminary hearing on April 10.
	Man charged after officials say he stabbed man, stole car in Rock Island At 9:20 p.m. Sunday officers arrived to the 3700 block of 14th Avenue for a man that had been stabbed.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for April 1, 2025 The QC International Airport has unveiled its new facility to expedite travelers through the airport, and Illinois officials are cutting cover crop funding.
	“The light emerging.” Reflecting on an uplifting moment in a hospital during the COVID pandemic A woman's first breath after treatment became a moment of light in the dark times of 2020.
	MercyOne Genesis expands Bettendorf emergency care site MercyOne Genesis held a ribbon cutting on March 31 for its expanded emergency care location in Bettendorf. The expansion totals 2200 square feet and adds six more exam rooms, to bring the facility’s total to 15. It also includes a new procedure room, a four seat nurses’ station, two provider offices and two supply storage area. The expansion was necessary because of the number of visits the emergency department sees every year. Watch the video above to see the new emergency department.
	INTERVIEW: Sylvan Island Stampede A local mountain bike race is returning to Sylvan Island this weekend, called the Sylvan Island Stampede. Joining the Morning Show to talk more about the race is Friends of Off-Road Cycling Race Director Mandy Griesenbeck. Watch the interview above for all the details about the race this weekend. For more information on the Sylvan Island Stampede, click here.
	Monmouth man arrested in connection with Rock Island stabbing A man from Monmouth was arrested yesterday and accused of stabbing a man in the neck in Rock Island and taking his vehicle, according to a news release from the Rock Island Police Department. The release says that on March 30 at about 9:20 p.m., the Rock Island Police Department responded to reports that a person had been stabbed in the 3700 block of 14th Avenue. When they arrived, officers found a 44-year-old man with a non-life-threatening wound to his neck. The victim said that an unknown man approached him while he was sitting in his vehicle. The unknown man reportedly cut the victim in the neck with an unknown object and pulled him out of his vehicle. The suspect fled the area in the victim’s vehicle. Tory Shultz (Rock Island Police Department) The victim was taken to Unity Point Trinity Hospital, where he was treated and released. Area license plate reader systems tracked the stolen vehicle to Galesburg. The Rock Island Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, the Galesburg Police Department and the Knox County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as Tory J. Shultz, 32 of Monmouth. An arrest warrant was issued for Shultz on March 31 on charges of aggravated vehicular hijacking, armed robbery, aggravated battery and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. The Warren County Sheriff’s Office found and towed the victim’s vehicle. The Monmouth Police Department found Shultz, took him into custody and transported him to the Knox County Jail. Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Rock Island Police Department at (309) 732-2677, Crime Stoppers at (309) 762-9500 or use the P3 Tips app.
	Rock Island mayoral candidates sit down with Quad Cities Today Several consolidated elections begin Tuesday in Illinois.
	Businesses, residents invited to participate in surveys about Moline services The City of Moline is conducting two important surveys – one for residents and one for businesses – to gather feedback on government services and assess the quality of life in Moline, according to a news release. City of Moline (moline.il.us) The results from both surveys will inform the city’s upcoming strategic plan, ensuring that Moline’s future is shaped by the voices of both its residents and business owners. Over the next few weeks, randomly selected households will receive invitations to complete the National Community Survey. Those selected are encouraged to follow the enclosed instructions and participate. The survey will then open to all residents in the coming weeks, and those interested can sign up for a notification when it becomes available here. Moline businesses will also receive the National Business Survey to share their experiences, challenges and priorities. Business owners are encouraged to participate to help the city strengthen Moline’s business environment. Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati emphasized the importance of survey participation: “Moline’s success is built on collaboration between our city government and the people who live and work here. We value resident and business owner feedback year-round, but as we shape our Strategic Plan, your voice is more important than ever. This survey is your opportunity to directly influence the city’s priorities and help guide Moline’s future. If you receive a survey, please take a few moments to complete it – it’s a small effort with a big impact on our community.” City Administrator Bob Vitas echoed this sentiment, encouraging participation: “If you choose to participate in the survey, we thank you for your valuable time. Know that we take the process of engaging the community seriously and the overall survey results will help to guide the City leadership over the next several years to further improve and enhance Moline as a place to live, work and play.” For more information, contact Community Engagement Manager Ashley Allen Smith at aallensmith@moline.il.us or 309-524-2007.
	Community invited to share ideas about arts, culture at Burlington open house Two teams of University of Iowa graduate students will host a community-wide open house at the Burlington Public Library from 12:30-5 p.m. Friday, April 4, a news release says. City of Burlington (burlingtoniowa.org) The students will share their ideas for the cities of Burlington and West Burlington to cultivate a rich arts and culture ecosystem as well as expand transportation options. There will be interactive prompts to encourage residents to share their thoughts and provide feedback on the students' ideas. The open house is welcome to residents of all ages, featuring a kids' corner where younger attendees can engage in activities, along with interactive stations for everyone to participate. Drinks and snacks will also be provided for residents to enjoy as they are making their way through the different stations. The students will use the feedback in selecting arts, culture and transportation recommendations and priorities that reflect the interests of the community. The arts and culture ideas will guide the future of Burlington and West Burlington’s arts and culture scene to work towards developing the joint community, enhance their identity, and build cohesion between the two cities. The transportation ideas will contribute towards policy recommendations in the two cities that improve the accessibility of alternative transportation modes, such as walking and using public transit. The arts & culture and transportation planning projects are made possible through a collaboration between the City of West Burlington, City of Burlington, and the University of Iowa’s Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) program. Through IISC, over 100 University of Iowa students are working with community leaders and residents on a wide variety of projects over the course of the academic year. The project list includes a prairie installation in West Burlington, public art, storm-water engineering, and many more. About Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities The University of Iowa’s Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) is an engaged learning program housed in the School of Planning and Public Affairs at the University of Iowa. IISC pursues a dual mission of enhancing the sustainability of Iowa’s communities while transforming teaching and learning at the university. To learn more about IISC’s partnerships and projects visit here.
	Illinois voters head to the polls for consolidated general election People in Rock Island County are choosing between Mike Thoms and Ashley Harris for Rock Island mayor.
	Easter Egg Hunt April 12 The Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department is inviting the community to the 2025 Easter Egg Hunt on April 12.
	Kids! Get creative in coloring sweepstakes to win a $25 gift card during Financial Literacy Month! The Family Credit Union and WQAD launch a Coloring Sweepstakes for kids to celebrate Financial Literacy Month.
	Muscatine man charged with vehicular homicide in August 2024 crash Marion Hinnant Edwards Jr., 53, is charged with homicide by vehicle - OWI for the Aug. 23, 2024, crash at Taylor Avenue and Highway 61.
	What to know about Bettendorf's tax levy rate, planned budget Bettendorf City Council will hold a special public meeting at 6:30 p.m. on its proposed tax levy on Tuesday at City Hall.
	What to know about Bettendorf's tax levy rate, planned budget Bettendorf City Council will hold a special public meeting at 6:30 p.m. on its proposed tax levy on Tuesday at City Hall.
	Assistant Chief Mike Hartman retires from Muscatine Fire Department “One of the proudest moments of my life is when I got the call that I was being hired as a Muscatine firefighter,” Mike Hartman said.
	Green card holders, travelers caught in Trump's immigration crackdown A lawful permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for 50 years was detained because of a decades-old conviction amid tougher immigration enforcement at airports and border crossings.
	Green card holders, travelers caught in Trump's immigration crackdown A lawful permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for 50 years was detained because of a decades-old conviction amid tougher immigration enforcement at airports and border crossings.
	QC Karen community worries for friends and family impacted by earthquakes in Myanmar At least 2,000 people are believed to have been killed.
	The Family Credit Union Financial Literacy Month Coloring Sweepstakes Official Rules Complete rules for this sweepstakes
Monday, March 31st, 2025
	Davenport attorney nominated for U.S. Attorney for Southern District of Iowa Waterman’s nomination now goes to the Senate Judiciary Committee for vetting and consideration.
	City of Bettendorf considers building new police station to accommodate city’s rapid growth The City of Bettendorf is considering plans to build a new, $27M police station, to accommodate for the city’s rapid growth towards their northern boarder.
	North Scott YMCA partnering with local schools to get kids ready for summer swimming The sessions are built into the students' gym class.
	North Scott YMCA partnering with local schools to get kids ready for summer swimming The sessions are built into the students' gym class.
	Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins says tariff payments are a possibility for farmers The visit to Colfax marked Rollins' first trip to Iowa as a Cabinet member.
	Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins says tariff payments are a possibility for farmers The visit to Colfax marked Rollins' first trip to the state as a Cabinet member.
	QC Karen community worries for friends and family impacted by earthquakes in Myanmar At least 2,000 people are believed to have been killed.
	Iowa lawmakers race against second funnel week deadline To survive the second 'funnel,' bills need approval from the chamber that introduced it, and passage at the committee level in the opposite chamber.
	Moline using surveys to shape strategic plan The results of these surveys will impact the city’s upcoming strategic plan.
	Iowa bill for first-responder cancer coverage advances A bill to expand cancer coverage for emergency workers in Iowa advanced out of a Senate subcommittee. House Study Bill 266 would have employees like police officers and firefighters pay more into a state fund. Cities would budget more toward cancer treatment for firefighters. The bill still needs to pass committee before the next funnel deadline. For more information, click here.
	Peer recovery group looks for answers after ARPA cuts Life Connections Peer Recovery Services is a non-for-profit that supports people experiencing mental health and substance abuse issues out of Clinton and Dewitt.
	March 31 officially designated Transgender Day of Visibility in Illinois Illinois governor JB Pritzker officially designated March 31 as Transgender Day of Visibility in Illinois. The day been celebrated across the country since 2009, but Illinois is now officially highlighting it. The move marks another criticism of the Trump administration. During his first two weeks in office, President Trump signed an executive order meant to erase the concept of gender ideology from government functions. Pritzker pointed to the Illinois Human Rights Act as a defense against discrimination the transgender community might see. The human rights act currently prohibits someone being fired or denied housing or other services like banking solely because of their gender identity. The act also bars any laws prohibiting transgender girls from playing on female sports teams, or restricting someone from using a restroom matching their gender identity. For more information, click here.
	Rock Island women charged with theft and dependent adult abuse Robinson is being held in the Scott County Jail on a $20,000 cash bond.
	First phase of terminal upgrades completed at Quad Cities International Airport A new 14,600-square-foot building added to the backside of the terminal features new TSA screening equipment and an upgraded conveyor belt system.
	Cornbelt Running Club’s 24-hour run returns Registration is open until April 15.
	Danny Taylor's parents testify during first day of trial of teen charged in his death Danny Taylor was shot on April 14, 2023, at his home. Johnell Smith III is one of two facing murder charges in relation to his death.
	Danny Taylor's parents testify during first day of trial of teen charged in his death Danny Taylor was shot on April 14, 2023, at his home. Johnell Smith III is one of two facing murder charges in relation to his death.
	Help Make-A-Wish at Wishes in Bloom gala A simple wish can mean the world to a child fighting a serious illness, and you can help grant those wishes. Maryanne Graves joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about Make-A-Wish Iowa's 26th Annual Riverbend Gala: Wishes in Bloom. For more information, click here.
	Rock Island Arsenal will conduct severe weather drill The Rock Island Arsenal will conduct an annual Severe Weather Drill at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, to familiarize the Arsenal workforce with storm sirens and sheltering procedures in preparation for the upcoming storm season, according to a news release. Alert! notifications and Giant Voice Mass Warning Notification Systems (MWNS) will beused during this drill. All exercise messaging will begin with “Exercise-Exercise-Exercise.”Incoming and outgoing gate operations may be affected by the exercise for a limited time, the release says.
	March 2025 - 1 of the warmest ever in Quad Cities With just a few hours left in March, we have a preliminary report for the final climate stats this month. The average temperature was 45.3° and that's more than 5° above normal. This was the a tie for the 7th warmest March ever. Strangely enough, it tied last year for that mark! Rain was below normal and snow was way below normal. We only picked up 1.5" of snow and normal for March is 4.4". This continues our trek toward the least snowy season ever. If we don't get another inch and a half, this will be the LEAST SNOW we've ever picked up in one season in the Quad Cities!
	Bettendorf grad and Iowa State cornerback impresses at NFL Combine Some mock drafts have Darien Porter going in the second round of this year's draft.
	Quad Cities Business Journal: Clean River Advisory Council's environmental work in the QCA The Mississippi River is the backbone of the QCA, and advocacy for the river and the environment around it is growing throughout the region. Jennifer DeWitt from the Quad Cities Business Journal joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the environmental work of the Clean River Advisory Council for the mighty Mississippi. For more information, click here.
	U.S. Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins visits Iowa ahead of new tariffs Rollins says that the onslaught of tariffs may be difficult for farmers
	Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins visits Iowa The visit marked her first official trip to the Hawkeye State.
	Weekend fires in Davenport leave man injured, displace 7 Two Davenport fires over the weekend left one man seriously injured and displaced seven residents. Both incidents remain under investigation.
	First phase of terminal upgrades completed at Quad Cities International Airport Project GATEWAY is a multi-year, multi-million dollar project to upgrade QCIA's landside terminal. The first phase of that project is now done.
	MercyOne Genesis expands Bettendorf Emergency Care to serve more patients The expansion includes six new exam rooms, a nurse's station and a procedure room for triage.
	Voters to determine fate of $28M in bonds for Mercer County High School Mercer County High School soon could get a long-awaited facelift. "A lot of planning has gotten us to this point," said Tim Farquer, Mercer County Schools superintendent. "The current building was constructed in 1954." (Evan Denton, OurQuadCities.com) It comes down to whether Mercer, Henderson, and Rock Island County voters approve a referendum seeking $28 million in bonds over a 30-year stretch on April 1. "We'd prefer to make wholescale upgrades to modernize the facility, but we know that requires a little bit more debt over a longer period of time," Farquer said. The project focuses on classroom enhancements, building modernization, and improved safety and security. "In many of those locations, (students and teachers) are working with lab spaces and equipment that was constructed, installed, or purchased in 1954," Farquer said. "A lot of our lab stations don't function fully. Currently we have students that walk outside to get to their (vocational tech) classes. We would like to secure that and connect that space with the main building so kids would no longer walk through the parking lot multiple times a day to get to and from class." Farquer added the proposal would not make an impact on taxpayers' wallets. "In the first eight years, we anticipate the school tax rate will be the same, regardless of if the referendum passes or not," Farquer said. The bond needs a simple majority to pass.
	Trial begins for man accused of sexually abusing child for almost five years Jury selection was completed, and opening statements were made in the sex abuse case of Michael John Cross, who is accused of sexually abusing a child for almost five years.
	Lawsuit accuses Casey's of exploiting employees with tobacco-use surcharge A lawsuit accuses Casey’s General Store of exploiting workers through the discriminatory practice of imposing a tobacco-use surcharge for health insurance coverage, according to The Capital Dispatch. Casey's workers who fail to certify as non-smokers pay more for insurance, the lawsuit says. The surcharge, which is alleged to be $35 per pay period, amounts to an illegal “cash grab” by Casey’s that is masquerading as a wellness program, the lawsuit claims. The lawsuit, which was filed Friday in U. S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, seeks class-action status but is currently filed on behalf of one Casey’s employee, Elizabeth Blalock of Carroll County, Missouri. Attorneys for Blalock say that all Casey’s workers are automatically assumed to use tobacco unless they submit to a process in which they provide a sworn affidavit stating they do not. Any worker who fails to complete that process by a specified deadline is then required to pay a “tobacco surcharge” for the entire calendar year, even if they do not use tobacco, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit claims Casey’s fails to provide the federally required options that would allow employees to avoid the surcharge. “The surcharge is structured as a penalty rather than a legitimate wellness incentive,” the lawsuit claims, because the workers “who miss the enrollment deadline are penalized for the entire year without any opportunity to later demonstrate compliance or avoid the surcharge.” The lawsuit is based on the requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. ERISA allows employers to deduct from workers’ pay a tobacco-use surcharge, but only in connection with wellness programs that meet specific federal guidelines established in 2014. Those regulations state they are intended to ensure corporate wellness programs actually promote health as opposed to being a “subterfuge for discriminating based on a health factor.” The lawsuit alleges Casey’s is illegally shifting the costs associated with less healthy workers from the company back to those same workers “who end up subsidizing their healthier colleagues.” ERISA bars any health insurer or medical plan from discriminating against participants by charging premiums based on a “health-related factor,” including tobacco use. It does, however, allow group health plans to establish premium discounts or rebates” in return for adherence to programs that promote wellness and disease prevention. The lawsuit claims Casey's does not meet that standard. “There is no smoking-cessation program, waiver, or alternative route for tobacco users” to avoid the surcharge, the lawsuit alleges. “The only avenue for smokers to avoid the surcharge is to quit smoking and then submit that change in status to the benefits department. Thus, tobacco users are penalized based solely on their status as smokers, which violates ERISA’s nondiscrimination provisions.” The lawsuit goes on to allege that “allowing companies like Casey’s to exploit their participants and unlawfully extract millions from them under the guise of a wellness program that is, in reality, a cash grab, directly contradicts ERISA’s purpose of protecting workers from health-based discrimination. If unchecked, this practice would permit employers to manipulate wellness programs as revenue generating schemes rather than genuine health initiatives.” According to the lawsuit, Blalock has forfeited to Casey’s $35 in earnings per pay period — roughly $910 per year — in order to maintain health coverage through the company. Casey’s, which is headquartered in Ankeny, is one of the nation’s largest convenience store chains, with more than 2,600 locations in 16 states. There are more than 18,000 employees enrolled in the company’s health plan, according to court records. In seeking class-action status for their lawsuit, the plaintiff’s attorneys argue the amount of money at issue exceeds $5 million, and the number of Casey’s workers who might potentially join the case is more than 1,000. Casey’s has yet to file a response to the lawsuit. The company did not immediately respond Monday requests for comment from The Capital Dispatch. The plaintiff is represented by attorney Adam J. Wachal of the Koley Jessen law firm in Omaha. To read The Capital Dispatch article, visit here.
	What to Know before Illinois’s April Election There’s a big election in Illinois on Tuesday, and we’re breaking down some of the big decisions you’ll be making.
	Trial begins for defendant in Taylor murder case The trial for 17-year-old Johnell Smith, one of three people charged in the 2023 killing of Danny Taylor, began Monday with jury selection, opening statements, and emotional witness testimony.
	Latest from the Iowa legislature: Firearm purchasing age, SNAP benefits and more Every Monday on The Current, while state legislatures are in session, we catch up on the latest from Des Moines in Iowa and Springfield in Illinois.
	'Project Gateway' begins at QC Airport, Moline The Quad Cities International Airport anticipates some big changes with Project Gateway, a series of renovations. The airport hosted a ribbon cutting for the first phase Monday. The name of the game is accessibility. (Gavin Waidelich, OurQuadCities.com) "Accessibility is a big one," said Quad Cities International Airport Executive Director Benjamin Leischner. "Accessibility for passengers, having companion care restrooms, nursing mother suites. Have it accessible for all users, travelers and customers." The first phase of the project focused on baggage screening and building a new 14,600-square-foot baggage handling facility, with local jobs creating the space. "Ninety-seven percent is local craft labor that built this place," said Randy Clarahan, a market executive for Mortenson, a construction agency involved in the project. "And the reason and how we got there, frankly, I spent 20 years in the Quad Cities, my kids grew up in the Quad Cities, so it's easier for me to reach out to the subcontracting community, which I already knew and had a base for. Our promise to the Quad City airport was we're going to make this a local project, and we did." Improved ticket counters and a new conveyor belt make the job easier for workers and passengers alike. "Having to tote your bags over to the other spot, now you just drop them off at the ticket counter, it's going to be a game-changer for the operations of the airport," said Clarahan. "It's going to make it much more efficient." Leischner hopes the changes bring more comfort for flyers. "It aligns well with our guiding principle around passenger convenience," said Leischner. "So it's one less step in a busy and stressful process to travel for passengers." Phase two of the plan is expected to begin this fall, with work on the floors, updated restrooms and a curbside canopy coming.
	Strong storms possible (twice) this week! It could be another active week of severe weather around the Quad Cities. There's a chance (slight risk) for severe t'storms late Tuesday night (after midnight.) The best chance for severe storms this week is Wednesday. This is an enhanced risk according to the Storm Prediction Center. Something to note about Wednesday's severe weather chances, they are highest in the morning into the afternoon. That's a little different than the normal late afternoon into evening timeframe that's most often when we get severe weather. This will likely turn into a full-blown severe weather outbreak as the storms move East and away from the Quad Cities Wensesday evening.
	Moline Police seek help to find missing teen A 15-year-old girl who was last seen in Moline is missing, and police ask the community for help. Audriana Marie Brown (also goes by Audri and Audie) is 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighs 100 pounds, has brown eyes and long dark brown hair with some streaks of blonde. She changes hair color frequently, according to a post on the Quad Cities Missing Persons Network Facebook page. Sometimes she wears a bonnet. She was last seen at 4 p.m. March 25 at Burger King in Moline. She was wearing black pants with a black polo shirt that says "Burger King" and black tennis shoes. The post says Audriana may be with an ex-boyfriend. She may be somewhere in East Moline. She does not have her cell phone with her. Moline Police ask anyone with information to call the Moline Police Department at 309-797-0401 or 9-1-1.
	Myth Adventure: “Death of a Unicorn,” “The Woman in the Yard,” and “A Working Man” Yes, a horned, magical creature does indeed perish – at least twice. But forget its demise(s): Nothing that happens to the apparently not-mythical beast is quite as grisly as what happens to most of the movie's humans, our collection of potential victims including a Big Pharma titan and a grown man who seemingly doesn't own a pair of long pants. So, you know … it's okay to laugh if they die.
	Muscatine assistant fire chief retires after more than 30 years Mike Hartman joined the department in November 1994.
	Inmate fails to report back to Davenport work release program 42-year-old Brian Clark was convicted of burglary in Clinton County.
	Quad Cities International Airport unveils new facility in first phase of $60M renovation Baggage screening will now be “seamless” for travelers, a construction manager for the project said.
	Quad Cities International Airport unveils new facility in first phase of $60M renovation Baggage screening will now be “seamless” for travelers, a construction manager for the project said.
	Here's what voters should know for Illinois' consolidated election Illinois voters will head to the polls on Tuesday to vote on several local races and ballot measures impacting education and public safety.
	iPhone crash alert notifies first responders of crash; driver charged with DUI The crash remains under investigation.

Tuesday, April 1st, 2025

Monday, March 31st, 2025