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

Wednesday, June 12th, 2024

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Out of the box art: Meet the LaSalle artist who can paint a portrait on just about any surface

Some of John Kettman's smallest paintings have been on grains of rice, apple seeds, soybeans and corn kernels.

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QC area Chambers of Commerce receive state grants

Several area Chambers of Commerce are receiving grants from the State of Illinois because they were adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) awarded $5 million in grant funding to 151 recipients through the Back to Business (B2B) Local Chambers program. The program gives additional support for local chambers of commerce that experienced negative economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. “Small businesses are the backbone of our growing economy,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “That’s why my administration is providing support to local chambers of commerce through the B2B Local Chambers grant program. The 151 grantees announced today will amplify our efforts to help small businesses who may have been overlooked by previous pandemic aid efforts access the necessary marketing and development resources they need to thrive. Local chambers that were awarded funding include: Dixon Chamber of Commerce & Main Street will receive $13,697.89. The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce will receive $ 21,700.52. Lee County Industrial Development Association will receive $ 50,000.00. Princeton Chamber of Commerce will receive $ 50,000.00. Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce in Sterling will receive $ 5,942.18. The Greater Quad City Hispanic Chamber in Moline will receive $ 50,000.00. The funding will be used by chambers to market and develop localities, offer professional development for small businesses and support small businesses and entrepreneurs while boosting economic development. “Local chambers serve as vital advocates and champions for economic growth in our business communities,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “The B2B Local Chambers’ program is investing $5 million to strengthen these organizations’ resilience by providing resources to support entrepreneurs, attract new development, and drive prosperity in every corner of our state.” B2B Local Chambers grant award amounts were determined by noting total annual revenue declines between 2019 and 2020, as shown on tax returns. All eligible applicants received a grant if the chamber of commerce met eligibility requirements and submitted proper documentation and attestations. “Through the B2B Local Chambers grant program, the State of Illinois is providing support to dozens of chambers of commerce in communities that were hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic,”said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Economic development in every corner of the state will continue to grow as local chambers have newfound access to resources to promote marketing and development.” Chambers of commerce that were eligible to apply included organizations of businesses and professionals who work to improve the economic climate and business development of their community that experienced a negative economic impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. These chambers have an annual revenue of $1 million or less. Since the onset of the pandemic, DCEO has awarded $1.5 billion in pandemic-related support for businesses, including $705 million through B2B and BIG, $899 million in Childcare Restoration Grants (administered in partnership with DHS), $18.5 million in local CURE funding specifically allocated to businesses, $14 million in Emergency Hospitality Grants and $3.5 million in BIG agriculture grants. Click here for the full list of grant recipients.

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5 taken to hospital after ‘critical incident’ near Lost Lake in Ogle County

The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is on the scene of a reported shooting at an address inside a gated community near Dixon.

KWQC TV-6 5 taken to hospital after ‘critical incident’ near Lost Lake in Ogle County KWQC TV-6

5 taken to hospital after ‘critical incident’ near Lost Lake in Ogle County

The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office is on the scene of a reported shooting at a gated community near Dixon.

OurQuadCities.com Take pride in Pride Party in Moline Saturday OurQuadCities.com

Take pride in Pride Party in Moline Saturday

For Pride Month, The Project of the Quad Cities is hosting its fourth-annual Pride Party at Bass Street Landing in downtown Moline on Saturday, June 15, 2024. This event is free to attend (off 17th Street, north of River Drive), with live music from 3-7:30 p.m., and drag performances 8-10:30 p.m. Beverages will be sold by the nearby Pub 1848. The drag performers will be: Sinclaire Snaps - host & emcee Izzy A. Mess Oshi Devil Carmen Love Monroe Ginger Snaps Logan Flynn Monroe Howie Felon-Luv Monroe Dominique Alexis Zaire Live musical performances will be from: QC Rock Academy BTDT (formerly known as “Been There Done That”) The Chicago Spirit Brigade Food and beverage vendors will be Bears Fire Grill, Mexies Food Truck, Eggroll Express, Kinetic Energy, NuKole’s Grub on Wheels, Pub 1848, Lifted Energy, and Kona Ice. To learn more about The Project, click HERE.

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East Moline public meeting for continuing downtown improvements

The City of East Moline asks for community input in upcoming meeting on downtown revitalization project.

OurQuadCities.com New Wall of Honor hails Common Chord backers OurQuadCities.com

New Wall of Honor hails Common Chord backers

Common Chord opened 20 years ago today at the historic Redstone building, and there’s a new Wall of Honor on the second floor to credit people key to its founding. Seven inaugural members of “The Amplify Society,” recognized on a new Wall of Honor dedicated recently at Common Chord, include: Dan Huber, Bechtel Trusts/Dick Bittner, Betsy Brandsgard, LuAnn Haydon, Ellis Kell, Frank Klipsch and Kent Pilcher. All were instrumental in early formation of what began as River Music Experience. The new Common Chord Wall of Honor. “If not for their actions, we wouldn’t be here,” Downtown Davenport Partnership executive director Kyle Carter said. “This brought new life to a part of downtown that had been left for dead.”  A critical element of their effort was getting support throughout Scott County for a $5-million bond referendum to support the River Renaissance project. The 73% approval in a vote on Oct. 23, 2001, assured the community of obtaining $20 million in funding from Vision Iowa.  The wall displays the first member names in 2024, with music from blues legend Muddy Waters’s “Got My Mojo Workin'.” It was a tune Ellis Kell (a longtime RME stalwart) frequently performed and is a continuing favorite among the Ellis Kell Winter Blues Camp and other programs, Common Chord executive director Tyson Danner said Wednesday. “Sort of an unofficial theme song.” Each year, Common Chord (at 2nd and Main streets, Davenport) will honor additional people on the wall. “The first year, we started with people who were involved in our creation. In future years, we’ll begin adding people who were involved at various points in our history,” Danner said. The wall features a Muddy Waters song and has room to honor more people in future years. The Amplify Society is an honorary group that recognizes people who have made a significant impact on Common Chord’s mission. The Society was created in 2024 to recognize the organization’s 20th anniversary, highlighting community members that played a role in founding and establishing the organization. “We are deeply thankful to these community leaders who were passionate and dedicated to bringing live music to the heart of downtown Davenport,” Danner said. “It’s a way of honoring people who have made a significant impact on our success over the years. The Encore Society (listed on the right side of the Wall of Honor) is their legacy & planned giving group – individuals and families who have made multi-year major gift commitments and/or planned gifts to the organization. The current Encore Society is comprised of Jeff & Kristi Cordle, Jeff & Reggie Goldstein, Kim Nickels and Rusty & Doris Unterzuber. Common Chord is based at 2nd and Main streets, Davenport. The impact of RME -- renamed Common Chord in September 2022 -- has reached into all corners of the Quad Cities, far beyond its headquarters at the Redstone building. No longer a “museum,” the organization has infused the love of music to countless thousands of people through events and educational programs. Last year alone, more than 35,000 people attended concerts and performances. More than 200 events were staged, and over 850 musicians were hired. Education programs reached more than 15,000 students over more than 390 events. “More Music, More Community” is the organization’s motto.  “We do even more off campus than we do here,” said Danner, who has been at the helm of Common Chord since April 2019. “If you’re doing the exact thing today as you did 20 years ago, you’re doing something wrong. The world changes; the community changes.”  For more information on Common Chord, click HERE.

OurQuadCities.com 4 Your Money | Consumer Stress OurQuadCities.com

4 Your Money | Consumer Stress

There has been concern lately about growing consumer frustration and stress in the economy. John Nelson, Financial Planner at NelsonCorp Wealth Management, joins us to shed some light on what is driving this trend and how it might affect the broader economy.

KWQC TV-6  Scott County BOS discuss primary election results Tuesday KWQC TV-6

Scott County BOS discuss primary election results Tuesday

Scott County Auditor confirms results for 2024 Iowa Primary Election.

OurQuadCities.com Barge in on a big QC party at Beacon Harbor OurQuadCities.com

Barge in on a big QC party at Beacon Harbor

Living Lands & Waters (LL&W) is hosting its Barge Party on Thursday, June 13th, 2024, at Beacon Harbor in East Moline, the site of its future headquarters. A scene from the 2023 Barge Party at Beacon Harbor in East Moline. This year's event promises to be bigger, better, and more impactful than ever before, showcasing the completed Mississippi River Institute at LL&W's future headquarters, according to a release from the 26-year-old nonprofit. The Barge Party stands as LL&W's flagship event, bringing together over 900 attendees, including crew members, sponsors, and supporters, for a night of celebration and fundraising along the picturesque Mississippi River. Guests will be treated to an array of festivities, including a Fish Fry & Shrimp Boil, Wine Pull, Silent Auction, Barge Tours, Cash Bar, and Live Music by "For Those About to Yacht." Live music Thursday will be by the rock band For Those About to Yacht. “We're incredibly excited to welcome everyone back to the Barge Party,” says Chad Pregracke, founder of Living Lands & Waters. “This event not only serves as a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Quad Cities riverfront but also plays a crucial role in supporting our ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance our nation’s rivers.” The Barge Party on Thursday, June 13 includes an art auction. The event will be Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Beacon Harbor, East Moline. Individual tickets are available for $50, with limited table reservations for 8 at $400. Tickets can be purchased online HERE (through 9 p.m. tonight, then available at the door). Parking and continuous shuttles will be provided at John Deere Harvester Works for the convenience of attendees. In addition to the festivities, LL&W invites local artists to participate in the 2024 Barge Party Art Auction. Artists are encouraged to donate environmental-themed artwork made from natural, repurposed, or recycled materials. The silent auction will start at 5 p.m., with all proceeds contributing to LL&W's mission. the 2013 Barge Party at Schwiebert Riverfront Park, Rock Island. The overarching goal of this year's Barge Party is to rally increased support from the community towards LL&W's mission of environmental conservation and community enhancement. Proceeds from the event will go towards renovating the Beacon Harbor building, thereby bolstering the Quad-City community. A new headquarters The LL&W future headquarters address at Beacon Harbor is 101 Beacon Harbor Parkway, East Moline. They are currently working on fundraising for the renovations of this building, which will hopefully benefit the QC in many ways, such as creating access to host programs, community events, and activities on the river, increasing community interaction. LL&W is working to raise $249,500 to renovate this building (101 Beacon Harbor Parkway, East Moline) for its future headquarters. The building was originally meant to be a visitor center, but it has sat vacant since 2014, said group marketing manager Leah Cafarelli. LL&W purchased it last year, and its fundraising goal is $249,500 for renovations. The current LL&W Shop/HQ is at 17624 Route 84 North in East Moline. It's an inconspicuous building, and they do not currently launch events out of it. The LL&W Mississippi River Institute at Beacon Harbor. The Mississippi River Institute (its floating classroom barge) is currently at Beacon Harbor, but will be moving to St. Louis for workshops after the Barge Party. At Living Lands & Waters, they have always framed the Mississippi River as “2,300 miles of opportunity.” “We believe not only is it a tremendous resource from an ecological standpoint, but it also has numerous career opportunities that are typically overlooked by students preparing to enter the workforce,” the group says.The vast array of careers along the mighty Mississippi include dozens of STEM jobs, barge and boat crew, navigators and pilots, conservation and wildlife rangers, hospitality, and more. The access to learning about career opportunities on the river could be a critical catalyst for students to find pathways to success. The Mississippi River Institute is a floating classroom barge. LL&W built this classroom barge, the Mississippi River Institute. By traveling along the Mississippi from St. Paul to Memphis with various stops in between, high-school students have the chance to explore the available career options along the river in a unique and memorable classroom setting. The free educational workshops available in the Mississippi River Institute are designed for young adults. Each workshop includes: A day of inspiration taught by professional educators. Industry-professional guest speakers talking about real-world experiences. A video highlighting dozens of careers available on the river from Minneapolis to New Orleans, narrated by Mike Rowe. A maritime-focused aptitude test for each student. For more information on LL&W, click HERE.

OurQuadCities.com QC area towns get grants for safe schools OurQuadCities.com

QC area towns get grants for safe schools

New sidewalks and traffic control are coming to Moline, Aledo and Galesburg as part of $9.8 million in new Illinois Department of Transportation grants for local projects to help boost the health and safety of children by making walking and biking to school safer and more accessible. The Safe Routes to School program is funding 47 projects selected from 143 applications received from local governments and schools throughout the state. “From Moline to Normal to Chicago Heights, the Safe Routes to Schools program is creating accessible communities that are safer and healthier places to live,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said in a state release. “Thanks to these grants, 47 communities across the state will build projects that will ensure K-12 students, including those with disabilities, can safely walk or bike to school.” Administered by IDOT using federal funds, Safe Routes to School supports projects and activities that improve safety and encourage active transportation options in areas around elementary, middle and high schools. Improvements include new and upgraded sidewalks, efforts to reduce speeding and other traffic offenses, public education and outreach programs. The projects include: $250,000 to Moline for new traffic control devices (including red flashing stop signs and radar speed signs) around seven schools -- Lincoln-Irving, John Deere Middle, Butterworth, Franklin, Logan, Washington and Seton Catholic. $250,000 to Aledo for new sidewalk from South College Avenue (Illinois 94) west on Southwest 6th Street to complete an east-west sidewalk route across the city, serving Mercer County Intermediate and Apollo Elementary schools. $235,376 to Galesburg for new sidewalks on sections of Fifer Street where no sidewalks currently exist, with ADA improvements, serving Silas Willard Elementary School. “We are pleased to receive this SRTS award,” Aaron Gavin, Galesburg City Engineer, said Tuesday. “It will allow us to ensure students and their family members, including those with disabilities, have access to a safe route to school.” The $235,376 awarded to Galesburg will be used exclusively for work near Silas Willard Elementary School as part of the city’s Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Project. The funding will be used for the construction of new sidewalks where none exist along Fifer Street, as well as improvements to deteriorated crossings and ramps, bringing them into ADA compliance. The project will improve safety and accessibility to the school and its recreational areas. The Galesburg sidewalk project will benefit Silas Willard Elementary School.  “Funding of this type is vital to communities like Galesburg. It enables us to move forward with infrastructure projects that have a direct impact on the health and safety of our children and residents,” said Eric Hanson, City Manager. Galesburg is committed to installing sidewalks and multi-use paths and completing ADA improvements as part of infrastructure improvement projects and will continue to make walkability a priority. This is not the city’s first Safe Routes to School award. Previous SRTS funding has been designated for sidewalk improvements near King Elementary School and Lombard Middle school, with construction scheduled to begin this summer. “Safe Routes to School projects are small improvements that make a big difference in their communities,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Infrastructure supporting active transportation strengthens quality of life and mobility in small towns and big cities alike, while also providing people who walk and bike, as well as their loved ones, peace of mind knowing they have safe options to get to where they want to go.” The maximum award amount is $250,000. “The Safe Routes to School program enhances the health and safety of children across the state by making walking and biking to school safer and more accessible,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “This funding is a vital investment in our communities. These projects across the state will improve infrastructure, create safer environments for our students, and promote lifelong healthy habits.” To see a complete list, visit the state website HERE.

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3 Things to Know | Quad Cities morning headlines for June 12, 2024

Davenport firefighters were dispatched to a fire near Veterans Memorial Park, and the Figge Art Museum received a $14 million donation.

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Miles, Iowa boil order lifted

The City of Miles is under a boil order, city officials say.

Quad-City Times Moline Police Department seeks public input for accreditation Quad-City Times

Moline Police Department seeks public input for accreditation

The Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, or ILEAP, will be assessing the Moline Police Department from June 16 to June 18, including time June 17 for the public to comment.

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Iowa officers are making the rounds to check in with registered sex offenders

Police officers in Linn County, with support from the US Marshals, made the rounds this week to check in with registered sex offenders and ensure they're compliant.

Quad-City Times Musco celebrates new fabrication facility Quad-City Times

Musco celebrates new fabrication facility

On Monday, Musco Lighting held an open house to celebrate the completion of a new 28,000 square-foot foot pole manufacturing and aluminum fabrication building.

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One dies, one injured in crash on Highway 38 Monday

One person was killed and another hospitalized in a three-vehicle accident Monday afternoon on Highway 38 at Brookview Road.

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Dispatch-Argus Spelling Bee Champ places 60th in Scripps National Spelling Bee

Partha Katreddy, 12, of Bettendorf, placed 60th in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May out of 245 spellers.

Quad-City Times Davenport man charged with kidnapping, eluding Quad-City Times

Davenport man charged with kidnapping, eluding

The alleged kidnaping happened in May and was allegedly observed by Davenport police.

Quad-City Times Muscatine City Council considers extending lifespan of TIF Quad-City Times

Muscatine City Council considers extending lifespan of TIF

Muscatine City Council wants to see Merge Urban Development Group secure financing for a project on Carver Corner before discussing increasing the length of the tax increment finance district,

Quad-City Times Muscatine school board discusses new special education delivery plan Quad-City Times

Muscatine school board discusses new special education delivery plan

This week, the Muscatine School Board gathered for its first meeting of the summer season, during which they discussed the proposed Special Education Delivery Plan for 2024 through 2029.

Quad-City Times Davenport school board weighs ending North YMCA lease agreement Quad-City Times

Davenport school board weighs ending North YMCA lease agreement

A 25-year lease agreement between North High and the North Family YMCA could end as Davenport schools continue long-range facility planning.

Quad-City Times The Green Thumbers of Davenport still blossoming after 75 years Quad-City Times

The Green Thumbers of Davenport still blossoming after 75 years

A family-owned lawn and garden center in Davenport celebrates their 75th anniversary and shares their family secrets to staying in business.

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Colona forges forward with park improvements before receiving state grant

Colona City Council on Monday voted 6-1 to spend $70,000 from general fund cash for necessary park improvements without waiting for state grant money to arrive.

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Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, June 12, 2024

Cheryl R. Dobrinske, 70, of East Moline, Illinois, died Friday, June 7, 2024, at Genesis Medical Center, Silvis, Illinois. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.

OurQuadCities.com How to watch movies in the QCA for cheap this summer OurQuadCities.com

How to watch movies in the QCA for cheap this summer

(KTLA/NEXSTAR) – The temperature is rising in much of the United States this week, and a dark, air-conditioned theater beckons as cinemas roll out their summer deals. The summertime specials could also provide a valuable boost for the major movie theater chains. A May report by analytics company Placer.ai found that foot traffic is still way below pre-pandemic levels. "Cinemas have yet to reclaim their pre-COVID glory - and during the first few months of 2024, visits to AMC and Regal, and to a lesser extent Cinemark, remained substantially below 2019 levels," Placer.ai wrote in a blog post. "While some of these visit gaps can be attributed to exhibitors downsizing their real-estate portfolios, the rise in at-home entertainment continues to impact pre-pandemic foot-traffic comparisons." Cinemark Tickets are currently on sale for Cinemark's Summer Movie Clubhouse deal with showings between June 10 and Aug. 15. Select movies are priced at just $1.75, with $1 off deals on snack packs for kids, popcorn and drinks during showtimes. Cinemark encourages viewers to check with their local theater for more information about Summer Movie Clubhouse. The company also has another promotion for adults similar to that of AMC – Discount Tuesdays. Prices vary by location. See the lineup of Summer Movie Clubhouse showings below: June 10 to 13 – “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem“ June 17 to 20 – “Sonic the Hedgehog 2“ June 24 to 27 – “Shrek“ July 1 to 4 – “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie“ July 8 to 11 – “The LEGO Movie“ July 15 to 18 – “Trolls Band Together“ July 22 to 25 – “How to Train Your Dragon“ July 29 to Aug. 1 – “Migration“ Aug. 5 to 8 – “Hotel Transylvania“ Aug. 12 to 15 – “Paddington 2“ AMC AMC Theaters is offering moviegoers a way to beat the heat this summer with the return of its summer movie camp program. During the program, which runs from June 24 until August 14, customers can see select movies at participating theaters for $3 plus tax. A new title will be shown each week on Mondays and Wednesdays, a news release said.   The program will be available at more than 250 AMC locations nationwide. Eight movies from Universal’s Illumination will rotate throughout the program, including recent releases like “Migration” and “Despicable Me 3.” This year’s program is sponsored by Universal’s “Despicable Me 4.” Here is the full list of movie titles and their release dates: June 24/June 26 – “Minions: The Rise of Gru” July 1/July 3 – “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” July 8/July 10 – “Sing” July 15/July 17 – “Sing 2” July 22/July 24 – “The Secret Life of Pets” July 29/July 31 – “Migration” Aug. 5/Aug. 7 – “Despicable Me 2” Aug. 12/Aug.14 – “Despicable Me 3” Spanish dub versions of the titles will be available at 30 select locations nationwide with showing happening on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. More information, including ticket purchasing options, can be found here. For those who want to see new movies at a discounted price, AMC also offers deals on Tuesdays. for its members.

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Free fishing coming to Illinois waters

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) -- The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has announced the 2024 Free Fishing Days, and the fish should be afraid. From June 14 to June 17, or Father's Day weekend, no fishing license is required to cast your line, nor trout or salmon stamps. In addition, keeping your catch is allowed. But those new to fishing in Illinois waters should consult IDNR Fish Advisories here. After the weekend, the waters will be closed to anyone without a license. Anyone interested in purchasing a license or stamps for the 2024 fishing season should click here.

Tuesday, June 11th, 2024

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IL DOT hiring for more than 70 jobs

Most of the openings are in construction and maintenance, but there are also engineering, design and office roles.

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St. Ambrose University seeing continued student enrollments amid national FAFSA challenges

At a time when many higher education institutions are continuing to experience challenges caused by the rollout of the new FAFSA online application process, St. Ambrose University says they’re reporting continued enrollments month over month for undergraduate, transfer and graduate students.

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Rock Island-Milan School Board pushes back vote on new deputy superintendent

The board is considering hiring Jeffrey Dase from the Decatur School District.

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New program raising funds, awareness for Iowa farmers diagnosed with cancer

'Farmers Against Cancer' hopes to get more rural Iowans access to screenings and treatment. Iowa ranks second in the country in cancer rates.

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Rock Island-Milan School District introducing new security measures

Weapon detectors will be installed at the high school and middle schools.

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City of Muscatine considers bringing well known trolley back to the area

The city of Muscatine is considering bringing back Muscatine Trolley & Tours but in a different way. The trolley service was well-known in the community over 20 years ago according to city leaders.

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IL DOT hiring for more than 70 jobs

Most of the openings are in construction and maintenance, but there are also engineering, design and office roles.

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AMBER Alert cancelled for 15-year-old abducted from Iowa City

Police announced that Ophelia Barton was found Tuesday night.

KWQC TV-6 AMBER Alert cancelled for 15-year-old in Iowa City KWQC TV-6

AMBER Alert cancelled for 15-year-old in Iowa City

AMBER Alert has been issued for a 15-year-old girl in Iowa City

KWQC TV-6  State of Iowa asks federal court to lift pause on book ban law KWQC TV-6

State of Iowa asks federal court to lift pause on book ban law

Tuesday, the State of Iowa asked the U.S. Court of Appeals to lift an injunction blocking two portions of SF 496.

KWQC TV-6 City of Muscatine considers bringing well know trolley back to the area KWQC TV-6

City of Muscatine considers bringing well know trolley back to the area

The city of Muscatine is considering bringing back Muscatine Trolley & Tours but in a different way. The trolley service was well-known in the community over 20 years ago according to city leaders.

OurQuadCities.com QCA photographer captures essence of Iowa State Fair OurQuadCities.com

QCA photographer captures essence of Iowa State Fair

An artist from Maquoketa is showcasing the history of the Iowa State Fair through photography.As Our Quad Cities News reporter Gavin Waidelich shows us, Kurt Ullrich's work fully captures the essence of the fair. For more information on Ullrich's Muscatine exhibition, click here.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Rock Island-Milan board delays vote on deputy superintendent hire

The Rock Island-Milan school board postponed a vote on hiring the district's first deputy superintendent due to a mistake with the planned salary contract.

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Rock Island-Milan School Board moves vote on deputy superintendent to late-month special meeting

The Rock Island-Milan School District was supposed to vote Tuesday night on a deputy superintendent, a newly-created position, that’s caused some controversy.

OurQuadCities.com Fight over Iowa book ban law continues OurQuadCities.com

Fight over Iowa book ban law continues

A fight over Iowa's book ban law went back to court. The latest round in the battle is over an injunction that's been in place since December. The U.S. Courts of Appeals heard arguments from the state asking to lift the injunction. Attorneys from Lambda Legal and the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) of Iowa want the court to uphold the injunction against two provisions of Iowa Senate File 496. The law bans books that depict any sort of sex act from school libraries and classrooms. There is no timetable for a decision from the court. For more information, click here.

KWQC TV-6  QCA school districts serving free meals for students KWQC TV-6

QCA school districts serving free meals for students

Schools throughout the Quad Cities are serving free meals to students during the summer months.

OurQuadCities.com Hot weather and strong storms on the way OurQuadCities.com

Hot weather and strong storms on the way

In the next coming days, we are going to be seeing some hot temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees for Tomorrow These temperatures are continuing into Thursday as well in the upper 80s with humid dew points. For Thursday we are seeing some strong bands of storms coming in. The 3-day SPC outlook has some areas in a level 2 risk for severe weather with heavy rain and strong storms possible.

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Figge Art Museum receives $14 million are donation

Randy and Linda Lewis are donating 44 pieces of art that will be displayed in a new wing of the museum.

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LaSalle man paints on unique canvases

From chips to corn husks, John Kettman isn't sticking to canvas to bring his visions to life.

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Counting down to the John Deere Classic: 2 big names in college golf receive exemptions

Illinois' Jackson Buchanan and Florida State's Luke Clanton will both compete in the tournament.

KWQC TV-6  Davenport woman charged with burglary, rummages through someone’s home KWQC TV-6

Davenport woman charged with burglary, rummages through someone’s home

A Davenport woman was arrested after police said she went into someone’s home and started rummaging through items inside.

OurQuadCities.com Farming with edge of field practices OurQuadCities.com

Farming with edge of field practices

Since we're surrounded by farmland here in the QCA, have you ever thought about all the different kinds of planting in our area? Rachel Curry with the Illinois State Extension Service spoke with Our Quad Cities News about edge of field practices. For more information, click here.

KWQC TV-6  CDC’s new guidelines to address burnout and support staff wellbeing KWQC TV-6

CDC’s new guidelines to address burnout and support staff wellbeing

Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers, the CDC has rolled out new federal guidelines aimed at addressing burnout and mental health issues among healthcare staff.

Quad-City Times Quad-City Times

Man accused of a June 1 robbery in Davenport

Authorities allege Corion Lard, carrying a gun, forced his way into a residence and took a piece of jewelry from a person.

River Cities' Reader River Cities' Reader

2024 Quad Cities Chalk Art Fest, June 22 and 23

With the eagerly anticipated weekend event hosted by Rock Island's Quad City Arts and taking place for the eighth time, glorious colors and imaginative designs will be gracing the pavement of Rock Island's Schwiebert Riverfront Park in the Quad Cities Chalk Art Fest, a June 22 and 23 summertime fixture boasting free admission, beautiful artistic creations, live music, children's activities, food and drink vendors, and more than $1,800 in cash prizes.

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“The Way He Looks,” June 23

Presented as the third of four Pride Month events in the Figge Art Museum's Free Film at the Figge series, writer/director Daniel Ribeiro's 2014 coming-of-age romance The Way He Looks enjoys a June 23 screening in the Davenport venue's John Deere Auditorium, the Brazilian release currently enjoying a 93-percent appropval rating on Rotten Tomaoes, where the critical consensus reads: "Compassionate, emotionally detailed, and populated with resonant characters, The Way He Looks leaves a warmth that lingers."

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2024 Quad City Air Show, June 22 and 23

A popular summertime weekend event making a welcome return in 2024, the Quad City Air Show roars back above and throughout the Davenport Municipal Airport on June 22 and 23, this exhilarating aerial celebration featuring airborne performances, aerobatic teams, helicopters, squadrons, information booths, vendors, musical entertainment, and much more.

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2024 David R. Collins Writers Conference, June 27 through 29

Authors of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and more will share their talents and help strengthen the talents of others during the Midwest Writing Center's 2023 David R. Collins Writers Conference at Augustana College's Sorensen Hall, a June 27 through 29 celebration of the written word boasting workshops, readings, book pitches, and more, with special events planned at several additional Quad Cities locales.

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How to apply for jobs with the Illinois Department of Transportation

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is hiring and held a career fair in Rock Island. Representatives from several offices and bureaus were present to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities. Breakout sessions showed participants how to set up an account to apply for State of Illinois jobs. Representative saidthe jobs come with some great benefits. To apply or for more information on employment with the IDOT, click here. .

KWQC TV-6 Man charged in dog neglect case sentenced to probation KWQC TV-6

Man charged in dog neglect case sentenced to probation

A former commercial dog breeding facility owner has pled guilty in connection to an animal neglect case from last year.

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QC kids can receive free meals from Davenport Schools this summer

Kids from 1 to 18 can receive free meals, regardless of where they live or their family's income.

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Ridgewood softball coach reflects on state title win

Renae Leander took over the softball program back in 2015. It would take 7 years before the team had a winning season, making the state title that much sweeter.

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Opera Quad Cities' “La Bohème,” June 21 and 23

Delivering the unforgettable story of two young, bohemian lovers in Paris, and serving as the basis for the Broadway sensation Rent, composer Giacomo Puccini's masterpiece La Bohème enjoys June 21 and 23 performances at the Bettendorf High School Performing Arts Center, with the talents of Opera Quad Cities bringing to life this deeply romantic, ultimately heartbreaking stage classic.

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Genesius Guild's “Julius Caesar,” June 22 through 30

For the classical-theatre company's second Lincoln Park production of 2024, Genesius Guild will stage of one William Shakespeare's most timeless historical tragedies with the June 22 through 30 staging of Julius Caesar, a thrilling tale of power struggles famed for such immortal Bard-ian lines as “Beware the ides of March," “Friends, Romans, countrymen ...", and “Et tu, Brute?”

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“Anything Goes,” June 27 through July 7

One of the most popular and beloved musicals in theatre history is scheduled to set sail at Mt. Carroll's Timber Lake Playhouse, with the romantic and hilarious Cole Porter sensation Anything Goes enjoying a June 27 through July 7 run, and treating audiences to such iconic show tunes as "You're the Top," "All Through the Night," "I Get a Kick Out of You," and the unforgettable title number.

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6th annual missing persons awareness ride set for Saturday in Davenport

"Doing it for David," the sixth annual missing-persons awareness ride, will be Saturday, June 16, at Hawkeye Motor Works, 7805 N. Division St., Davenport. Bike blessings will be by Pearl City Disciples, with registration at 9 a.m., and kick stands up at 10:30 a.m. Bo Orrin Music will provide music from noon until 2 p.m. Food and refreshments will be available. David McAllister (contributed photo) A $10 donation per bike is requested. Proceeds will go to raise awareness of persons missing in the Quad Cities and across the nation. Missing since 2017 David McAllister, of Bettendorf is now 29. He went missing in May of 2017. He last was seen at his Bettendorf home. He left in the early hours of May 11, 2017, and said he would return that evening. He had his cell phone, a Bible and a backpack, according to The Charley Project, which profiles cold-case missing-persons cases. His mother has told Local 4 News she remembers going to work early that day, and she noticed David wasn’t home. She texted him, and asked whether he was doing OK. He said he was doing some walking and thinking and "spreading the Word," his mother remembers. She texted him a prayer, and said something she never had said before: “I love you to the moon and back." David hitchhiked sometimes, rode trains and lived on the road. But he always kept in touch with his mother.

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“Rock of Ages,” June 27 through July 7

Described by Time Out New York as an “insanely fun mixtape musical” and by Variety as a show that “gleefully apes the worst excesses of the era's pole-dancing, crotch-grinding, big-hair-tossing movies,” the Broadway smash Rock of Ages enjoys a June 27 through July 7 run at the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre, treating audiences to a celebration of 1980s chart-toppers that NY1 called “so cleverly staged and impressively performed that it's an irresistible, offbeat trip of a show that hits all the right notes.”

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Iowa board launches "Farmers Against Cancer"

The program's creator, Britt Van Roden, joined Shelby Kluver on The Current to discuss the program's importance.

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An uncommon gem celebrates 20 years in QC

Twenty years ago this week, the precursor to Common Chord launched at 2nd and Main streets, then a museum and performance space that would inject life into downtown Davenport through the power of music, specifically music that had its roots along the vastness of the Mississippi River.  The 2021 mural on the side of the 1892 Redstone Building, before RME changed its name to Common Chord in September 2022 (photo by Jonathan Turner). Originally branded as River Music Experience, the organization was a linchpin of the $113-million placemaking project called River Renaissance which brought other major improvements to downtown, including the Figge Art Museum, renovation of the Redstone Building (home of Common Chord), expansion of the Adler Theatre, NewVentures Center, parking garages and the Skybridge.  But the impact of RME -- called Common Chord since September 2022 -- has reached into all corners of the Quad Cities, far beyond its headquarters at the Redstone building. No longer a “museum,” the organization has infused the love of music to countless thousands of people through events and educational programs, according to a Quad Cities Chamber release Tuesday. Last year alone, more than 35,000 people attended concerts and performances. More than 200 events were staged, and over 850 musicians were hired, according to Common Chord executive director Tyson Danner. Education programs reached more than 15,000 students over more than 390 events. “More Music, More Community” is the organization’s motto. Tyson Danner is executive director of Common Chord, Davenport. “We do even more off campus than we do here,” said Danner, who has been at the helm of Common Chord since April 2019. “If you’re doing the exact thing today as you did 20 years ago, you’re doing something wrong. The world changes; the community changes.”  “It’s been an evolution since the day it was born,” said Kyle Carter, executive director, Downtown Davenport Partnership. On June 11, 2004, the day before the doors opened, an estimated 1,000 people attended a gala preview, amazed by the 81-foot interactive River Wall that told the story of river-influenced music through multimedia clips of interviews and performances.  Seven inaugural members of “The Amplify Society,” recognized on a new Wall of Honor dedicated just recently at Common Chord, include: Dan Huber, Bechtel Trusts/Dick Bittner, Betsy Brandsgard, LuAnn Haydon, Ellis Kell, Frank Klipsch and Kent Pilcher. All were instrumental in the RME’s early formation.  “If not for their actions, we wouldn’t be here,” said Carter. “This brought new life to a part of downtown that had been left for dead.” A River Renaissance A critical element of their effort was getting support throughout Scott County for a $5-million bond referendum to support the River Renaissance project. The 73% approval in a vote on Oct. 23, 2001, assured the community of obtaining $20 million in funding from Vision Iowa.  Common Chord is at 2nd and Main streets, Davenport. And at the heart of the music was Rock Island native and noted blues guitarist Ellis Kell, “The Godfather of RME.” The influence of Kell, who passed away in December 2016 at the age of 61, is seen in many of Common Chord’s signature programs, like the popular summer camp KidStock (which began as Rock Camp) and the Ellis Kell Winter Blues Music Camp.  A tribute wall to Ellis Kell on the second floor of Common Chord (photo by Jonathan Turner). A larger-than-life tribute on the second floor of Common Chord notes that Kell, hired in 2004 as the membership, operations and special events manager, wore “many hats to help RME figure out its place in our community.” Kell always looked out for young people, says his widow, Kristi, especially those who had no access to music lessons or never touched an instrument. With the RME, she said, “he was in a position to change that.” He traveled to Texas to train with musicians who ran a rock camp there so he could start one here.  Carter said Kell was the soul of the organization. “They figured out early on that a place like this needs a soul and needs somebody who really cares about its programming, and that was Ellis’ role,” Carter said. Redstone and more There have been many milestones in Common Chord’s development. One was the opening in 2006 of the Redstone Room, a performance space seating up to 250 people with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. The late Nate Lawrence at the Redstone Room, Davenport. The space is one of several that features live music, educational programming, and community events, enhancing the Skybridge Courtyard and the first-floor restaurants that have operated over the years in the Redstone Building. The Redstone Room is also a popular venue that can be rented for private events such as wedding receptions.  Another milestone was the introduction of the River Roots Live festival in 2005, drawing thousands to LeClaire Park annually for a celebration of music. That event evolved in 2017 to Alternating Currents, a multi-day festival founded by the Downtown Davenport Partnership which showcases comedy, film, music, art, and local businesses across dozens of venues in downtown Davenport, Rock Island and Bettendorf.    The second free Live At Five summer concert this year is this Friday, June 14 at the Skybridge Courtyard, 5 to 7 p.m. Danner notes that it takes constant support and innovation to create programming that is relevant to the community. “As we celebrate 20 years of success, we have to remember that it took a whole community of support to create this place… and it will take stronger support from private and public partners to keep downtown moving on the right trajectory,” he said. “We have to keep our foot on the gas pedal.”  Rhythm on the River Saturday For the first time, Common Chord is partnering with the Friends of MLK and The Lincoln Center for this Saturday's Juneteenth Festival and Rhythm on the River, June 15 at LeClaire Park, Davenport. The free event includes the QC Juneteenth Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Rhythm on the River concert at 6 p.m. The concert will celebrate the contributions of Black musicians and highlighting Black voices in our local music scene and beyond. Rhythm on the River will feature Ashley Dean, Jerry Johnson & The Voices of the QC Gospel Choir, and The Voices – Chicago-based Tribute to Motown. Admission is FREE but additional 10’x10′ “picnic plots” are available for reservation in the area closest to the stage – $25. Picnic plots will be marked in the grass. Visit the Common Chord table at check-in to be directed to your reserved picnic plot. Must be purchased by June 14 at 5 p.m. Proceeds from picnic plots support after-school enrichment programs at The Lincoln Center. Food trucks will be on-site. You may bring your own food and drinks. No alcohol permitted.Minimal seating provided – bring your blankets and chairs! Pop-ups and tents are permitted, but must be placed far from the stage, behind the line marking “tent area. And well-behaved pets are welcome. For more information on Common Chord, click HERE.

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Figge Art Museum receives $14 million art donation

Randy and Linda Lewis are donating 44 pieces of art that will be displayed in a new wing of the museum.

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Emily Elgin, June 22

An up-and-coming country-music sensation lauded by CanvasRebel as "brilliant and insightful," Emily Elgin headlines a June 22 engagement at Davenport's Rhythm City Casino Resort Rhythm Room, her concert in the venue's Country Vibes Series sure to include her hits "Tuesday" and "Should've Been Raining," as well as favorites from her 2019 debut EP This Woman.

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Drake White, June 21

Acclaimed by Taste of Country as "a natural storyteller" who is "capable of reaching every single fan without pulling a muscle," country singer/songwriter and Billboard sensation Drake White headlines a June 21 concert at East Moline venue The Rust Belt, the musician an inclusion among Rolling Stone’s "10 Country Artists You Need to Know" and the recipient of the British CMA Awards’ citation for International Song of the Year.

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BYOBrass, June 27

A collective of Iowa-based musicians and educators founded in 2017 by a group of friends at the University of Northern Iowa, the high-energy ensemble BYObrass headlines a June 27 outdoor event the Big 9 Concert Series, the collaboration between the City of Davenport and Common Chord in which gifted Midwestern musicians play various parks along Davenport’s nine miles of riverfront.

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Gasoline Lollipops, June 22

Touring in support of their 2022 album Nightmares that The Sound Advocate praised for its blend of "an open, acoustically-based sound with ferocious, eclectic playing," the the indie rockers of Gasoline Lollipops headline a June 22 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the group also lauded by New Noise magazine for delivering "a powerful mix of Americana, outlaw country, and just enough punk-rock swagger to appeal to those who won’t admit to liking those other two genres."

KWQC TV-6  Galesburg receives Safe Routes to School funding KWQC TV-6

Galesburg receives Safe Routes to School funding

On Tuesday, Illinois Department of Transportation awarded Galesburg another Safe Routes to School funding to build new sidewalks and paths that follow ADA compliance.

KWQC TV-6  QC Botanical Center to unveil Plant Discovery Bus with private ribbon cutting ceremony KWQC TV-6

QC Botanical Center to unveil Plant Discovery Bus with private ribbon cutting ceremony

The Quad City Botanical Center will host an invite only Plant Discovery Bus ribbon cutting event this week. The one-of-a-kind mobile classroom has been two years in the making.

KWQC TV-6  Man accused of breaking into ex’s home with firearm KWQC TV-6

Man accused of breaking into ex’s home with firearm

Corion Lard, 21, of Davenport, was arrested and charged with first-degree robbery and burglary, both Class B felonies.

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Rob Leines, June 21

With his most recent album Blood, Sweat, & Beers lauded by Saving Country Music as "fun and raucous Southern-fried music meant to be listened to loud," outlaw-country and Southern-rock singer/songwriter Rob Leines headlines a June 21 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, Saving Country Music adding that his 2021 recording "may not help you solve the meaning of life, but it sure will make life a lot more entertaining."

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Lucero, June 25

Touring in support of their 2023 album Should've Learned by Now, a work that Pitchfork calls "endearing and impassioned" and Saving Country Music deems" incredible," the Memphis-based alt-country rockers of Lucero headline a June 25 concert at Maquoketa's Codfish Hollow Barn, the group's most recent recording inspiring Americana UK to rave, "Lucero show us that they’ve learned their craft well, thank you very much, and that they’ve left ample room for bringing in new tricks to make them sound even better."

OurQuadCities.com Iowa Department of Corrections seeks man who didn't report for work release OurQuadCities.com

Iowa Department of Corrections seeks man who didn't report for work release

The Iowa Department of Corrections (IDOC) needs your help finding a man who did not report back for work release. According to a news release from the IDOC, Damonti Lee Mayfield, who was convicted of robbery second degree and theft first degree in Scott County, did not report back to the Davenport Work Release/OWI Center as required on Monday, June 11. Damonti Lee Mayfield (Iowa Department of Corrections) Mayfield is 19-years old Black man who stands 5'5" and weighs 137 pounds. He was admitted to the work release facility on Feb. 12, 2024. Anyone with information on Mayfield's whereabouts is urged to contact local police.

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Murder by Death, June 22

With their 2022 album Spell/Bound lauded by Glide magazine for its "massively expansive, moody soundscape" that results in "a hauntingly beautiful record," the indie rockers of Murder by Death play a June 22 headlining concert at Maquoketa's Codfish Hollow Barn, the group also praised by New Noise magazine for being a unit whose members “seemingly have no problem pushing the boundaries of their unique creativeness."

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Cherry & Jerry, June 25

On June 25, the Rock Island Public Library's Watts-Midtown Branch invites patrons to step back in time as the delightful touring duo Cherry & Jerry enchant audiences with hit tunes and rarely played gems from the ragtime era, delivering an hour of great songs that they've dusted off and brought back to life, and treating listeners of all ages to a bit of history, as well.

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Ernst Otto Piano Recital, June 16

On June 16, the music of the locally famous composer, musician, and band leader Professor Ernst Otto will once again fill the air at Davenport's Schuetzen Park, with several of Otto's best-known compositions performed by Dr. Marian Lee, the gifted pianist and associate professor of piano at St. Ambrose University.

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Enjoy free music at Rock Island Public Library this month

The Rock Island Library is hosting two free musical performances this month as part of its Read, Renew, Repeat summer program. Children’s entertainer “Duke Otherwise”(aka Noah Riemer of Madison, Wis.) takes the stage on Monday, June 17 at 10:30 a.m. for a free show in the Rock Island Public Library’s Watts-Midtown Branch auditorium, 2715 30th Street. Otherwise offers clever lyrics on such original tunes as “My Uncle the Ant,” and “Creepy Crawly Love.” The audience gets in on the fun with sing-alongs and movement on “Brussel Sprout Shout,” “Yodeling Lament” and “Everybody Spin.” His imaginative show is for kids of all ages. He has recorded three albums, Kith and Kin (2019), Beehives and Bedheads (2015) and Creepy Crawly Love (2012). Duke Otherwise (Rock Island Public Library) The Cherry & Jerry Ragtime Show features Isaac Cherry on percussion and Jerry Rabushka on piano, playing ragtime, early blues and jazz standards from the 1900s through 1920s. The free one-hour performance is on Tuesday, June 25 at 1 p.m. at the RIPL Watts-Midtown Branch auditorium. The St. Louis-based group plays familiar tunes like “The Entertainer,” “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” and “St. Louis Blues,” along with music from W.C. Handy, Scott Joplin, May Aufderheide, Irving Berlin, Charlotte Blake, Euday Bowman and more. Jerry plays the original sheet music while Cherry provides percussion through a setup of cajon box drum, cymbal and bell tree. Cherry & Jerry (Rock Island Public Library) Participants can sign up for the library’s Read, Renew, Repeat Summer Reading Challenge. Adults, children and teens are encouraged to read at least 1,000 minutes from June 1 through July 31, or about 16 minutes a day. The library has set a community goal of 500,000 minutes for the all-ages challenge and has already reached more than 56,534 minutes. Book fans earn digital badges for meeting reading and activity goals, with virtual tickets rewarded to use toward prize drawings. Finishers with 10 badges or more can also claim a special prize. Kids earn a prize book and a draw from a prize bin; teens earn prize books and adults earn a packable straw kit made from eco-friendly wheat-straw fiber. Online and paper-based reading challenges are available. Participants do not have to live in Rock Island or Milan to join the reading challenge or attend concerts. For more information about library services and upcoming events, click here or call (309) 732-READ. For more information on Duke Otherwise, click here. For more on Cherry & Jerry, visit their Facebook page.

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Florida man facing DUI charges after driving burning semi on I-80 in Illinois, police say

Burnt debris, including boxed cookies, was scattered along the road for about a mile. Officials say the road was closed for around six hours Saturday morning.

OurQuadCities.com REVIEW: Stars shine in glorious 'Night Music' at Guild OurQuadCities.com

REVIEW: Stars shine in glorious 'Night Music' at Guild

All the stars align in a blindingly brilliant production a treasured Stephen Sondheim classic, "A Little Night Music" at Quad City Music Guild, which opened last weekend at Moline’s Prospect Park. I loved it so much, from the gorgeous singing, sensitive orchestra, to its snarky sense of humor and beautiful set and costumes. Music Guild's "A Little Night Music" runs through Sunday, June 16 at Prospect Park, 1584 34th Ave., Moline. Director Colleen Houlihan (who also helmed Sondheim’s “Into the Woods” here in 2016) clearly has affection for this glorious cast and story, which she bills as the legendary composer’s rom-com – a story about love (unrequited and re-ignited) with as many relationships destined for eternity and as doomed for failure. Based on filmmaker Ingmar Bergman’s comedy of manners, Smiles of a Summer Night, “A Little Night Music” takes its title from the Mozart classic and while the 1973 musical is a full-bodied, graceful operetta – at Music Guild blessed with phenomenal voices and actors – Sondheim never takes the story or genre too seriously. As the dominating, imposing actress Desirée Armfeldt (played here by the excellent Rachel Vickers) famously sings in the show’s most popular song (“Send in the Clowns” in Act II), “Don’t you love farce?” There’s a lot of silliness to go around this bewitching summer night. Callen Sederquist as 18-year-old Anne in "A Little Night Music." With its soaring arias and wild, melodramatic plots, the enchanting, elegant musical leans into “the madcap, the messy, the mayhem,” all without sacrificing the beautiful music and ingeniously clever rhymes and wordplay, Houlihan writes in the program. I’ve always known that Sondheim wrote nearly the entire score in variations of waltz time, but it just occurred to me recently that the inveterate Broadway puzzle master must have done that partly because of “Night Music”’s emphasis on love triangles (variations of three). Set in 1900 Sweden, A Little Night Music explores the tangled web of affairs centered around Desiree and the men who love her: the stuffy lawyer Fredrik Egerman (Kevin Pieper) and the boisterous, buffoonish Count Carl-Magnus Malcom (Michael Van Belle). When the traveling actress performs in Fredrik’s town, the estranged lovers’ passion rekindles. Rachel Vickers (center) as Desiree, with Kevin Pieper, left, Callen Sederquist, Sarah Lounsberry and Michael Van Belle. This sparks a flurry of jealousy and suspicion among Desirée; Fredrik; Fredrik’s wife, Anne (Callen Sederquist); Desirée’s current lover, the Count; and the Count’s wife, Charlotte (Sarah Lounsberry). The men and their wives agree to join Desirée and her family for a weekend in the country at Desirée’s mother’s estate. With everyone in one place, abundant possibilities for new romances and second chances bring surprises. With a book by High Wheeler, “Night Music”’s witty and heartbreaking triangles include: * Fredrik, a widower married to 18-year-old Anne, who is still a virgin 11 months after their wedding night, and Fredrik’s son Henrik (Noah Hill) an earnest, tortured divinity student, who is secretly in love with his new stepmother. Noah Hill (center) as Henrik, flanked by Amelia Fischer and Callen Sederquist. * The glamorous actress Desiree Armfeldt, who’s involved in a fling with the egotistical womanizer Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm, but who still has feelings for her old flame, Fredrik. * The Count’s cynical wife, Charlotte, who decides to seduce Fredrik in order to make her husband jealous and renew his interest in her. The theme of three (introduced at the start with “First Waltz” and the expository trio of “Now,” “Later” and “Soon”) was extended to five by Sondheim with a delightful quintet of “Liebeslieders” – who impressively open the show, and comment like a Greek chorus throughout. At Guild, these tremendously talented singers are Paulla Houston, Rochelle Schrader, Noel Jean Huntley, Brent Behrens and Joshua Ramseyer. Kevin Pieper, Callen Sederquist and Noah Hill in "A Little Night Music." Fittingly for this story, the starry cast shines with lights that never set (listen for the great rhyme, “The hands on the clock turn, but don’t sing a nocturne just yet”). Thanks to Houlihan and music director Bob Manasco, this little show (with a big score and bigger dreams) is perfectly cast, led by Pieper and Vickers, who both reflect skeptical, bruised, world-weary characters searching for happiness. In a glittering score packed with amazing songs (is there a Sondheim show that’s not?), the Fredrik/Desiree duet “You Must Meet My Wife” (in Act I) is one of my favorites. For both middle-age adults, the teenage Anne is still a child, and when Vickers bends down to meet the relatively short Sederquist as Anne, the moment is priceless. A haunting lament Another priceless scene is the iconic “Send in the Clowns,” a melancholy, haunting lament of regret for Vickers, sung alongside a mute Pieper (who has chosen Anne over Desiree), who leaves before the last verse. True to the nature of the song, the poised, pitch-perfect Vickers is understated and resigned, and Manasco’s characteristically precise, delicate orchestra melts into the moving final chord. Rachel Vickers and Kevin Pieper (foreground) with (rear L-R) Brent Behrens, Noel Huntley and Joshua Ramseyer. Sederquist (who wonderfully played Maria in Guild’s 2017 “West Side Story”) lives up to a line about Anne (“What is she, a bird?”) with her light, feathery, floating soprano which takes flight in the first act, but unfortunately she doesn’t sing in the second. Lucy Petersen (a Sudlow Intermediate student) is a perky Fredrika, and about the same height as Sederquist. She is daughter of Desiree and Fredrik and granddaughter of the sardonic, outspoken Madame Armfeldt (Pam Cantrell). She’s the character who gave Bergman his film title – she tells Fredrika the summer night "smiles" three times: first on the young, second on fools, and third on the old. Another showstopping scene that made me smile is the exuberant, idealistic “The Miller’s Son,” the irresistible ode to living life to the fullest, given a rousing performance here by Amelia Fischer. She plays Anne’s maid Petra, a little older, but who is much more experienced in love and sex, having first lost her virginity at 16. Fischer is simply delightful in the role, and she gives “Miller’s Son” just the right balance of big, sweeping gestures, and small, controlled intimacy. It’s a true revelation, with profoundly meaningful lyrics. Rachel Vickers, left, Pam Cantrell and Lucy Petersen. Sarah Lounsberry and Michael Van Belle are also outstanding as the sympathetic, put-upon, dramatic Charlotte, and her unsympathetic, pompous, self-absorbed, adulterous husband. Deservedly, they each shine in their own numbers – Carl-Magnus with “In Praise of Women,” which to me closely echoes Van Belle’s “Pretty Women” (last fall as Judge Turpin) in Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd” (which opened just six years after “Night Music”). And Charlotte in the affecting “Every Day a Little Death” (with Anne), where she decries the habits of men and the small stings that hurt us on a regular basis. Michael Van Belle as Count Carl-Magnus and Sarah Lounsberry as Countess Charlotte. Van Belle and Pieper also share a commanding duet in the second half, “It Would Have Been Wonderful.” The long anticipatory romp, “A Weekend in the Country” is a great, bouncy finale to the first act. Noah Hill gives an intense, angry, bitter performance as Henrik, who considers suicide before being rescued by Anne. “A Little Night Music” is a complete, classy entertainment also because of its sumptuous costume design by Cathy Marsoun and stylish, stately and refined set, designed by Aaron Deneckere and Roger Pavey Jr. I hope the large tree on stage was created with three trunks on purpose, to complement the waltz/triangle theme. Kevin Pieper, Rachel Vickers and Michael Van Belle. The show will continue at 1584 34th Ave., Moline Thursday, June 13, through Sunday, June 16. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., except the Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, and $15 for children (12 and under), available by calling 309-762-6610 or by visiting the QCMG website HERE.

KWQC TV-6  It’s been a week. What did June 6th tell us about what Iowans want in November’s election? KWQC TV-6

It’s been a week. What did June 6th tell us about what Iowans want in November’s election?

There will be several questions that Iowa voters will have to answer in November's election following the results of the primary election in June.

KWQC TV-6  85-year-old man dies in crash in Knox County KWQC TV-6

85-year-old man dies in crash in Knox County

The Knox County Sheriff’s Office said that an 85-year-old Galesburg man was eastbound when his 2024 Subaru left Highway 23 and landed at Knox Road 50 at 5:40 p.m. Monday.

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Deere to pay $1M in discrimination case

Deere has agreed to pay back wages and offer jobs to dozens after fed evaluation

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Clinton art map shows art from around the city

Finding all the artwork on display around Clinton just got easier. The city has created a Public Art Map that includes murals, statues and memorials that can be found around Clinton. The map also provides information and images about the art. The map project was started at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year by the Clinton High Synergy Program. When students moved on to new projects, Hillary Burken, Assistant to the City Administrator, completed the public art map. The map will grow as the city installs new artwork. Scan the QR code below for a copy of the map.

KWQC TV-6  Burlington street closures start Wednesday KWQC TV-6

Burlington street closures start Wednesday

Beginning on Wednesday, construction on Madison Ave and 9th street will close traffic, says the Public Works Directors Office.

OurQuadCities.com Hoker Trucking sponsoring Patrick Emmerling at HyVee Perks 250 race in Newton OurQuadCities.com

Hoker Trucking sponsoring Patrick Emmerling at HyVee Perks 250 race in Newton

Hoker Trucking has sponsored many racers over the years, but the company is sponsoring its first Xfinity driver at Saturday’s HyVee Perks 250 at the Iowa Speedway in Newton. Jeff Hoker, owner of Hoker Trucking in Dixon, Iowa, spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom about the sponsorship and the race in Newton, Iowa this weekend. “Their marketing person actually sent me an e-mail not quite two weeks ago wondering if we’d be interested in sponsoring Patrick Emerling this coming weekend,” he said. “I almost didn’t respond to it; our roots are in dirt track racing.” The company is sponsoring Emerling only for the race on Saturday, which starts at 3:30 p.m. “That’s what made it so kind of appealing to us, that it is in Iowa, our home state,” Hoker said. (Hoker Trucking) “I’m stoked to be able to race at Iowa this weekend in front of a sold-out crowd! It’s a cool track, and with my roots in modified racing, I love short tracks,” said Emerling in a news release. “I have a great partner this weekend in Hoker Trucking. They’re big supporters of local racing, so it’s exciting to bring them into the top tiers of NASCAR.” Hoker says fans are ready for this weekend’s race. “I know everything up there in Newton is sold out and has been sold out for some time. That’s what made it appealing to us, that it’s right here at Newton and one of the biggest races Newton has had to date. It was a great opportunity, we thought, to maybe hit up a market where we’ve not hit in the dirt track side of things.” “We hit the racing market years ago,” he said. “We decided to spend our marketing money there and once again on the dirt track side. To have an opportunity honestly to be on a car of this caliber and race, that’s going to be big. We didn’t think we’d be able to put something together but at the end of the day it took us a few days, but we were able to put it together so we’re very excited about it.” “I don’t know if I’ll have an opportunity like this again. They needed a partner for this race. Everybody who’s been racing kind of knows somebody who’s in racing and that’s how they got ahold of us. It was just a perfect opportunity.” For more on Hoker Trucking, including employment opportunities, click here. For more on Emerling, click here.

WVIK Davenport Community Schools offer free meals for kids this summer WVIK

Davenport Community Schools offer free meals for kids this summer

From June 10 to July 26 Davenport Community Schools will serve free breakfast and lunch at various locations.

OurQuadCities.com Iowa teachers hospitalized after stabbing in China OurQuadCities.com

Iowa teachers hospitalized after stabbing in China

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – China is promising to work with the U.S. to investigate a stabbing that sent four U.S. college instructors in China to the hospital. China’s foreign minister is not reporting a motive and calls the incident “isolated.” All four instructors were from Cornell College in Iowa, three of them were American. All are in stable condition. Chinese police say the man bumped into a foreigner at a public park early Monday morning when he began stabbing the victims, including one Chinese national who tried to intervene. On Twitter, the U.S. ambassador to China sad he was “angered and deeply troubled” by the stabbing. He says he visited the victims in the hospital. A spokesperson from the office of Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) said,” The U.S. Consulate General in Shenyang has confirmed to Senator Grassley that it’s working to advocate for the attack victims, with the Consul General planning a personal meeting with them at the hospital. Senator Grassley stands ready to assist.” Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa) says at least one of the American victims is expected to return to the U.S. in the next 24 hours and says so far Beijing is being “very cooperative.” "What I don't want people to do is jump to a conclusion that there was something more than a random unprovoked attacked, until we have that information this is what we have,” says Miller-Meeks.

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Galesburg man dead in Knox County crash

A Galesburg man is dead following a single-vehicle crash in rural Knox County on Monday, June 10.

OurQuadCities.com Augie students help more towns with water lines OurQuadCities.com

Augie students help more towns with water lines

Augustana College students will canvas 300 Port Byron homes Thursday, June 13, in the college’s next chapter of helping local municipalities with inventorying water service lines.  Seventeen students will work on the Port Byron project through Sept. 1, 2024. Augustana sustainability manager Peyton Heisch, a leader on the water line project, said students will use the historical marker of copper for all homes in the village newer than 1986 as well as past survey data to determine which houses should be included in the canvassing event, according to a college release. Augustana student research assistants Adriana Reyes and Erik Bergren at a canvassing event of Rock Island neighborhoods. Reyes, a junior geography major, is the GIS specialist on the Port Byron project. Augustana students and faculty first partnered with the city of Rock Island in July 2022 to identify and inventory lead water service lines in the city. The project, which emphasized engaged learning and a commitment to the community, was spurred by the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act, the Illinois law adopted in 2022 which requires cities to inventory lead service lines, implement replacements and coordinate financing strategies to fund the work. The law also requires the prioritization of low-income neighborhoods.  The Rock Island project finished in November 2023, following the presentation of findings and  funding proposals to city leaders. That project included more than 12,000 residential homes, accounting for 25% of the inventory citywide. Project leaders used predictive modeling to estimate the remaining 75%.  Both projects emphasize all three components of Augustana’s strategic plan, Bold & Boundless, which prioritizes engaged learning, maximizing student potential and connecting through partnership, the college said. “The water line inventory project is multi-disciplinary and allows Augustana students to strengthen their data collection and people skills as they connect with residents in our community with the aim of improving the water quality for our region,” Heisch said. “It’s an incredible opportunity, and we have benefitted from these experiences as much as the coordinating cities have.” The water line inventory projects are led by Augustana’s Upper Mississippi Center and the Center for the Advancement of Community Health and Wellness. Student researcher Adriana Reyes, a junior geography major, is the GIS specialist on the Port Byron project.  “Partnering with Port Byron on the service line project will allow more students and residents to learn about safe drinking water and provide students with real-world experience," she said. Port Byron residents received a postcard included in their water bills in early June describing the inventory project in advance of the June 13 canvassing event. Augustana students will provide a draft inventory to the village by the end of June and a draft prioritization plan by late July.  Heisch said the college is gathering data and findings, with a goal of completing this work by Sept. 1. Port Byron received a $30,000 grant from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and an extension to aid the village in adhering to the Illinois law. In 2023, 260 Illinois systems received grant funding ranging from $20,000-$50,000 per award to assist in creating the inventory. The original deadline for this work was set as April 15, 2024.  Additional EPA grants in Rock Island County include $50,000 each for Moline and East Moline and $30,000 for Hampton.  Per the Illinois law, cities have two years to create a replacement plan, and then up to 20 years to replace the lead lines. 

OurQuadCities.com OurQuadCities.com

Name of driver killed in Knox County crash released

Officials have released the name of an 82-year-old Wataga, Ill., woman killed Thursday in a Knox County crash. Karen Y. Perrin was killed in a single-car crash shortly after 5:30 p.m. at U. S. Highway 34 and Knox Highway 9, according to a news release. Perrin was driving a black 2017 Buick. She and a passenger, a 19-year-old Galesburg man whose name has not been released, were transported to a hospital by ambulance, the release says. Preliminary information indicates the car was headed east on U.S. Highway 34 when the driver left the roadway on the south side of the highway at Knox Highway 9, according to the release.

KWQC TV-6  Miles, Iowa under boil order until further notice KWQC TV-6

Miles, Iowa under boil order until further notice

The City of Miles is under a boil order, city officials say.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Human remains found near decommissioned Cherry Mine, deputies say

Human remains were found near the decommissioned Cherry Mine, deputies say.

KWQC TV-6  Lincolnway lane closures start Monday KWQC TV-6

Lincolnway lane closures start Monday

Starting Monday, lanes of Lincolnway will be closed due to road patching, the Clinton Engineering Department says.

WVIK WVIK

John Deere pays over $1 million in hiring discrimination settlement

John Deere will pay over $1 million in back wages to some Black and Hispanic job applicants.

KWQC TV-6  Couple donates ‘transformative’ $14 million of art to Figge KWQC TV-6

Couple donates ‘transformative’ $14 million of art to Figge

The Figge Art Museum said they’ve established The Linda and J. Randolph Lewis Wing after Randy and Linda Lewis of Davenport donated 44 works of modern and contemporary American art valued at $14 million by Christie’s in New York.

KWQC TV-6 KWQC TV-6

Knox County Coroner identifies woman killed in fatal crash

The Knox County Coroner, Mark Thomas, identified the 82-year-old woman who died in a Knox County crash.