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

Thursday, May 23rd, 2024
	Natural gas leak reported in downtown Rock Island Developing.
	Administrator of FEMA to help aid Greenfield residents amid deadly weather The administrator of FEMA will be in Greenfield, Iowa, surveying damage from a tornado. The tornado also caused severe damage to a nearby 94-year-old family farm.
	Gas leak reported in downtown Rock Island Drivers heading for downtown Rock Island need to avoid a street due to a natural gas leak, according to a news release from the city. The Rock Island Fire Department is currently on the scene of a natural gas leak at 17th Street and Third Avenue. This is next to the city parking lot. The gas leak was reported at about 9 a.m., saying a natural gas service line was damaged by a contractor working in the area. Chief Robert Graff said the fire department is closing off the area to allow MidAmerican Energy to repair the leak. The public is asked to avoid the area until further notice. The timeline to repair the leak is unknown.
	Searching for solutions to Rock Island County youth gun violence After several deadly shootings, local law enforcement is asking the community for help. A Moline nonprofit is working on some answers.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities headlines for May. 23, 2024 A 40 year-old man is facing five counts of theft, Hy-Vee announced free rides through shuttles, and Iowa works is holding a job fair for immigrant and refugees.
	Searching for solutions to youth gun violence in Rock Island County After several deadly shootings, local law enforcement is asking the community for help. A Moline nonprofit is working on some answers.
	Thursday morning trailer fire under investigation in Milan Firefighters extinguished a trailer fire at a Milan mobile home park Thursday morning. The blaze is under investigation.
	New Visit Quad Cities grant boosts tourism bids Visit Quad Cities has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the Regional Development Authority (RDA) as part of its Spring Grant Cycle. The funding will support the group’s work to boost tourism, bring more events to the Quad Cities and enhance economic development of the region. RDA awarded $2,019,680 to 75 grantees in the Spring Grant Cycle, focusing on human services, arts, culture, education and economic development. The group strives to strategically fund initiatives that create a vibrant, inclusive and growing community. “We are incredibly grateful to the Regional Development Authority for this generous grant and investment,” said Joan Kranovich, Vice President of Business Growth and Director of Sports QC at Visit Quad Cities. “The support from RDA will significantly enhance our business development and event acquisition efforts as our team continues to actively bid on, recruit and host a diverse range of events. This initiative is not just about increasing tourism but also driving economic growth and creating a more vibrant community for residents, positioning the Quad Cities as a premier destination for meetings, group business and sports events.” Grant money will be used for bid fees, facility rentals, equipment/transportation rentals, event sponsorships and other event incentives. It doesn’t support operational expenses for Visit Quad Cities as an organization but aligns with VQC’s mission to compete against other destinations to secure business opportunities. Group business directly recruited by VQC has a minimum economic impact of over $30 million annually. Click here for more on Visit Quad Cities’ regional economic development and tourism.
	Fallen LeClaire hero's family helped by foundation This Memorial Day, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is honoring the memory of Army Sergeant Logan Dicus by paying off the mortgage on his family's home in LeClaire. Logan Dicus graduated in 2009 from Mount Mercy College, where he met his wife Rebecca during his senior year. The two shared a love of sports as he played baseball, and she played softball, according to a Thursday foundation release. Army Sgt. Logan Dicus of LeClaire died at age 35 in June 2022 from an undiagnosed heart condition. Dicus had a career before joining the military but felt a strong pull to serve his country and enlisted in 2018. He was assigned to the 87th Sapper Company at Fort Hood, Texas, and later to A Co, 1 Brigade Engineer Battalion at Fort Riley, Kansas. “Logan found a lot of fulfillment in life and pride in serving,” his wife Rebecca Dicus said in the T2T release. “He wanted to give back and be part of something bigger than himself.” In 2021, Sgt. Dicus went on rotation with his company to Europe where he spent time in Poland, Germany, Romania, and Bulgaria. On June 19, 2022, he was found unresponsive in the barracks. It was later determined he died at 35 from an undiagnosed heart condition. In addition to his wife Rebecca, Dicus left behind their children, Lane and Colter. His daughter, Addison, preceded him in death. The Tunnel to Towers Gold Star Family Home Program honors the legacy of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country by paying off the mortgage or providing the surviving spouses and young children with mortgage-free homes. This Memorial Day, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, by paying off the mortgage or providing a mortgage-free home to 36 families across 20 states, stretching from Florida to California. “I feel so blessed to have received this gift. My gratitude and appreciation are beyond words. This gift has allowed me to slow down and focus on raising our children,”said Rebecca. “Sgt. Dicus answered the call to serve our nation and paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedoms. This Memorial Day we pay our respects to the memory of this fallen hero as we support the family he left behind,” said Tunnel to Towers Chairman and CEO Frank Siller. You can join Tunnel to Towers on its mission to provide mortgage-free homes for Gold Star families by going to T2T.org and donating $11 a month. Born from the tragedy of 9/11, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation carries out its mission to “do good,” by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. Tunnel to Towers is also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and helping America Never Forget September 11, 2001.
	Iron Tee Golf in Bettendorf open for business Iron Tee Golf in Bettendorf open for business
	1 injured in Davenport truck fire, crash One person received minor injuries after a truck they were in caught on fire and crashed into a transformer. The Davenport Fire Department was called to a reported vehicle fire in the 200 block of W. 50th Street on Thursday, May 23 at about 1:22 a.m. They responded with one apparatus initially, but when they arrived, they requested an additional apparatus and a command vehicle, bringing the total response to seven crew members. When the first unit arrived, they found several items burning in the street and a pickup truck that was on fire several hundred yards down the road. The vehicle came to a stop when it struck and damaged an electrical transformer. Fre crews quickly extinguished the blaze. The vehicle sustained heavy fire damage to the bed and cab areas. Other fire crews worked to extinguish the burning items found in the roadway. The driver of the truck was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. Crews remained on the scene for a couple of hours investigating. Mid-American arrived to isolate power to the transformer and survey the damage to their equipment. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
	QC drummer lives, honors Louie Bellson legacy The lives of Davenport drummer and jazz expert Josh Duffee and world-renowned drummer Louie Bellson have been inextricably linked for years. Louie Bellson was born 100 years ago, July 6, 1924 in Rock Falls, Ill. One of Duffee’s career highlights (in a resume packed with them) will be his performance at the third-annual Bellson Music Fest on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the RB&W District in Rock Falls, Ill., an hour east of the QC. This year is the centennial celebration of the legacy of Louie Bellson (1924-2009), the Rock Falls native who became the renowned drummer, composer, band leader and six-time Grammy nominee. The event is hosted by Rock Falls Tourism, which works closely with Bellson’s widow Francine Bellson and Duffee, a fellow Moline High alum who also is acclaimed for playing worldwide. For this year’s fest (free admission), he’ll play on Louie’s drum set (with Duffee’s 13-piece orchestra), in arrangements that Bellson played with Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey and Duke Ellington. Josh Duffee at his Davenport home with a drum set formerly owned by Bellson. “It will be another surreal moment being in his birthplace and being able to play his music on his drums on the 100th anniversary,” Duffee said recently of the centennial of Bellson’s birth. “Yeah, this is gonna be a really special festival.” “But to hear the caliber musicians that are gonna be there and the big bands, I mean, you'd be paying a hefty ticket price to do that,” he said. “To make the short drive and experience this for free, we're just telling people don't miss this opportunity, especially with it being the centennial year.” The June 8 fest will feature musical guest Steve Smith -- who served as drummer for the iconic band Journey. Smith was named best all-round drummer many times by Modern Drummer magazine as well as Modern Drummer’s top 25 drummers of all time and Rolling Stone’s 100 top drummers. Former Journey drummer Steve Smith will offer a free drum clinic at 11 a.m. June 8 in Rock Falls. In 2017, Smith was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his work with Journey. Smith will kick off the Bellson Music Fest by conducting a drum clinic at the McCormick Event Center at 11 a.m. Five bands consisting of big band, jazz and music honoring Bellson will perform from 12 noon to 9:30 p.m. at the RB&W District amphitheater. “Our music allows for individual expression and re-invention. We thrive on swing, groove and creativity,” Smith said in an event release. “We want to surprise each other every night on the bandstand with new ideas and in the process keep our audience ‘in the moment’ with us.” The fest lineup will be: 11 a.m. -- Drum Clinic conducted By Steve Smith, McCormick Event Center (205 E. 3rd St.., Rock Falls) Bands Performing at the RB&W District Amphitheater (201 E. 2nd St., Rock Falls): 12 noon -- Jerry Criss Band 2 p.m. -- Yorkville Big Band 4 p.m. -- Rock River Jazz Band 6 p.m. -- Josh Duffee & His Orchestra 8 p.m. -- Steve Smith and Vital Information (Steve Smith - Drums; Manuel Valera - Keys; Janek Gwizdala – Bass) From Illinois to the world Bellson was born Luigi Paulino Alfredo Francesco Antonio Balassoni in Rock Falls on July 6, 1924. The address of his home birthplace is 706 8th Avenue. This is a private residence. A plaque in his honor is between the sidewalk and the curb. Visitors are asked to stay on the sidewalk and respect the privacy of the homeowners. Bellson pictured in 1941, as a Moline High student, the year he won the national Gene Krupa drum competition in New York City, out of 40,000 contestants. In Rock Falls, Bellson’s father owned a music store and Louie started playing drums at three years of age. Louie and his family moved to the Peoria area in 1928, and after a few years moved to Rock Island (where his father had a music store downtown), and then in 1935 to Moline, where his dad opened the music store on 1711 5th Ave., across from the old Dispatch newspaper building. Bellson maintained a deep affection for Rock Falls, since it was his birthplace. “Louie considers Moline to be his hometown, but Rock Falls is where he was born,” Duffee said. “That’s something that Louie had told me personally. And he goes, I love both places. I love both Rock Falls because that's where I was born. Shades of Color Beauty Supplies is in the downtown Moline building where the Bellson music store was from the 1930s to the 1950s (photo by Jonathan Turner). "I was there for the first years of my life. But with my family moving around like they did, I considered Moline to be my home since that's where we stayed the longest as a family. And that's also where I graduated from high school.” “It’s important because Louie comes from a very strong Italian family and that's where he was born and it'd be like me, if I were to have moved away, Moline would always have a special place because that's where I was born,” he said. “I think that's what it was for Louie is that, that's where he was born. That's where his life began was in Rock Falls. And it has had a very special place in his heart and I know his family talked very highly of Rock Falls. They loved it there.” A Bellson promo photo circa 1953. “He goes, I love being back here knowing that this is where I was born and this is where everything started for me,” Duffee said. Bellson won the national Gene Krupa drum contest at age 17 in 1941 (out of 40,000 contestants), and Ted Fiorito’s orchestra was playing at the old Plantation in Moline. Young Louie got to sit in with them on drums. “And Ted heard him play and offered him a job right there on the spot,” Duffee said. “He said we'd love to have you come and play. And he said, my parents will not let me come and play with you. I have to finish high school. “And then Ted said, well, when you finish, give me a call and I'll have a job for you,” he said, noting he left for California soon after graduating Moline. Bellson often came back to visit Rock Falls and perform. “Of course, they'd roll out the red carpet for him. The mayor loved having him up there,” Duffee said. He performed on more than 200 albums with such greats as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Woody Herman, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, Lionel Hampton, James Brown, Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Mel Torme, Wayne Newton and Bellson’s late wife Pearl Bailey. Bellson died on Valentine's Day 2009, at age 84. As a composer and author, Bellson wrote more than 1,000 compositions and more than a dozen books on drums and percussion. He was a six-time Grammy nominee and received the prestigious American Jazz Masters Award from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1994. Bellson graduated from Moline High in 1942, and Duffee graduated Moline in 1998. The two drummers first met in 1996, when the teenager saw Bellson at Wallenberg Hall, Augustana College, at a drum clinic during the former Louie Bellson Jazz Festival. On June 30, 2001, the Josh Duffee Orchestra performed a Krupa tribute at the then-Moline Community Center on 5th Avenue, less than two blocks away from where Bellson’s family operated a music store. Louie Bellson and Josh Duffee in 2000, when the legendary drummer was inducted in Moline High School's Wall of Honor. Bellson died at age 84 from complications of a broken hip suffered in December 2008 and Parkinson’s disease, and is buried next to his father at Riverside Cemetery, 3400 5th Ave., Moline. After Bellson’s death on Valentine’s Day 2009, they had a funeral in Rock Island, and Duffee was asked to take part in the private burial. “And I said, I would be honored to do that. So I was there, playing ‘Taps’ on a snare drum, with the Bugler there,” Duffee recalled. “It was very emotional knowing that I was picked by my (high school) band director to do that. But I'm there at Louie Bellson’s private family burial.” Plans for the new fest Melinda Jones, director of Rock Falls Tourism and the Bellson festival organizer, contacted Duffee a few years ago about starting the annual fest in Bellson’s honor. The Mike Conrad Trio performed at the 2023 Bellson festival -- pictured are (L-R) Katie Ernst, Mike Conrad and Jameson Scriver. “They said we'd love to do something like that because we have a great stage right down by the river there that we could utilize outside, and make it a public event,” he said, noting he started as a consultant, and Duffee has brought his big band each year to play, based on Francine Bellson’s recommendation. “When I took over tourism, I decided that we needed to not let Louie Bellson’s name go and let people know who he is,” Jones said recently. “Plus, just having a jazz festival, I think that’s something that everybody would enjoy.” The fest attendance was about 800 to 1,000 people throughout the day for the first two years, with more in 2023. “Last year was probably the most. And I'm sure this year will be really good with Steve Smith being here,” Jones said. Performers at the 2023 Bellson Jazz Fest in Rock Falls. For this centennial year, the event is focusing more on big bands, since that was Bellson’s specialty, she said. “So having those up there, that'll be awesome. As far as other things, we'll have his drum kit out,” Jones noted. “Louie Bellson has a drum kit that, that was gifted to Rock Falls. So that'll be on display…And people love to see that.” Bellson loved coming back to visit Rock Falls (his father passed away in 1960, after running his Moline music store until the mid-‘50s). “It was amazing that he still came back to Rock Falls to see it and to visit with everybody,” Jones said. “His dad ran a music store in Rock Falls. So I'm thinking that just the two combinations and he appreciated the area here that loves drumming.” Walfredo Reyes, Jr., the drummer for Chicago, did a free clinic in Rock Falls at the 2023 festival. “The very first year was a lot of fun,” Duffee said recently, noting 2023 was especially good when they featured drummer Walfredo Reyes, Jr., of the popular band Chicago. Reyes and his father are featured on a Bellson record made in 1978, Duffee said. When Chicago played the Moline arena a number of years ago, Duffee was playing at the Hotel Blackhawk, where Chicago was staying. “I’m playing with my brushes and we finished the song, and this guy starts applauding behind me really loud and I turn around and it's Walfredo from Chicago,” he recalled. “I remember seeing him when I was a teenager like on videos and was so impressed with his drumming and then he's like, wow, he goes, your brush playing is like Louie Bellson. “I said, I took some lessons with Louie when he came to town and I was good friends with him,” Duffee said. “And right from there, we had a friendship…So he was able to come last year and he gave a wonderful one- hour drum clinic and then his trio performed that evening.” Walfredo Reyes, Jr., the drummer for the pop-rock band Chicago. He’s very excited to host Steve Smith for the 11 a.m. drum clinic this year – he was Journey’s drummer from 1978-85, 1995-98 and 2015-20. “He's still ranked as one of the top drummers in the world today. And that's not from me, that's from Modern Drummer magazine. That's from all these different publications,” Duffee said. “He knew Louie personally as well for so many years. And actually the last time Journey was in a town with Steve on drums, I actually dropped off like a little Bellson care package at the iWireless Center, I think it was at the time.” Duffee got a call from Smith the next day, who said, “Oh my gosh, this was so great getting this care package for Louie. He goes, I love Louie so much and his music and I was such good friends with him. He goes, that meant so much to get it, and he goes, I got your package before the concert. So my drum solo, I'm dedicating to Louie Bellson and you'll see me playing in the Louie style.” Double bass drums Louie was unique partly because he used two bass drums at once. “No other drummer at the time had a drum set like that,” Duffee said. “It allowed both of his feet to be making the bass drum sound twice as fast. But the way Louie approached the drums was a very musical approach with the toms. Bellson with his trademark double bass drums in the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, 1947. "And so having his feet being able to play on both bass drums allowed another voice to happen on the drums that he could get more creative, musical with his drums," he said, noting Bellson used it first with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra in 1947. “I love teaching students about Louie Bellson talking about the double bass drums,” Duffee said, noting that set-up is often used in heavy metal and rock bands today. “I tell them, well it all started with Louie Bellson in the basement of his father's music store in Moline, Illinois in the thirties,” he added. After Bellson’s death, Duffee was given one of Louie’s drum sets by his wife, Francine. Duffee's drum set, once owned by Bellson, set up at the Rock Falls amphitheater. “I had contacted Francine because I've been very dear friends with her ever since I first met her in 1996. I contacted her and I said, do you know anybody that's selling a Louie Bellson-style drum set? I'm gonna be featured with the Sterling Municipal Band and I'd love to play on a Louie-style kit. And she said, well, I'll do you one better. “She said before Louie passed away, he and I were talking about what I would do with his drum sets,” Duffee recalled. “She said, both he and I wanted you to have one, back in the Quad-City area since you've done so much for keeping his legacy alive, and being such a big supporter of his.” Duffee was speechless. “I currently own the drum set that he used for recording sessions and performances when he was in California,” he said this week. “The cases have all his names on it. What makes it surreal, is that when I was 16 and I saw him doing the clinic at Wallenberg Hall, I was just sitting there watching him. I mean, little did I know that all these years later I've been playing on the same type of drum set I saw him sitting behind.” Duffee playing on the Bellson drum set. “It's great being able to keep his legacy going here in the Quad Cities and then with Rock Falls and the jazz fest there,” Duffee added. In 2017, when Francine heard him play with the Sterling band, that was the first time she had ever heard Duffee play in person. “I’m behind Louie’s kit, warming up and she’s in the front row and she just jumps out of the front seat of the auditorium there and she’s like ‘no, no, no, no,’ and I'm like, oh my gosh, I've done something wrong and I've upset her and then she's like, no, no, no, and she walks to the front of the stage and she looks at me and just points and says ‘You’re Louie.’ Duffee met Bellson many times of the years, the last time was here, in October 2008 at the RME, today's Common Chord in Davenport. "She goes, ‘You sound exactly like Louie.' I mean, that gave me chills when I heard that,” Duffee recalled. More summer gigs On the actual 100th anniversary – July 6, 2024, Duffee plans to be at Bellson’s gravesite, from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Louie’s snare, a sound system with his music, and some Bellson photos. Duffee, left, with drummer Walfredo Reyes, Jr. at the 2023 Bellson Jazz Fest in Rock Falls. “So if people just wanted to come and pay their respects to Louie and wish him a happy birthday, the music will be playing there and I'll be there,” he said. Duffee also plans to perform some Bellson and his big band concert on Tuesday, July 23 at Rock Island’s Lincoln Park as part of their Starlight Revue summer concert series. The free concert will be 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. He’s playing up in Hackensack, Minn. (eight hours north of the QC), on July 12-13, for the Northwoods Arts Council “Drummer’s Delight,” in a tribute to Bellson, Krupa and Buddy Rich. This will be the eighth time that Duffee has brought his 14-piece big and to the small community that he loves, and all previous performances have led to a focus on famous drummers and Josh's talents. Food vendors will be on site for the June 8 fest. For more information on Bellson, click HERE.
	Pay It Forward \| Teacher helps parents in the emergency room Amanda Long puts together goodie bags with a coloring book and crayons for a local hospital, earning her the Pay It Forward award.
	United Way of Caring volunteers complete 23 projects in Wilton Volunteers in Wilton completed 23 projects for local seniors and organizations during United Way of Muscatine’s Day of Caring, according to a news release. Day of Caring exemplifies Living United when volunteers join with local civic and community groups to connect with others in the community who need help, the release says. (United Way of Muscatine) On May 10, more than 650 Wilton students and community members completed 23 projects during Wilton Day of Caring. This totaled 987 volunteer hours. Projects included yard cleanup at senior homes, trash, and yard debris pickup in local parks, painting picnic tables at Westview Park, planting trees in City Park and the Muscatine County Fairgrounds, helping clean up Muscatine County Fairground, and so much more! Completing these projects during Day of Caring makes such a difference in helping seniors stay in their homes and local nonprofit organizations get projects done that they did not have the resources to complete otherwise. “What a great day. The planting at the fairgrounds was so well-organized and engaging for my 4th graders.,” said Kathy Stout, of Wilton Community Schools. "I want to thank CDS this year for helping with my flower beds. It’s something I can’t do anymore but I still appreciate all my flowers. I thoroughly appreciate all the help I get," said Geraldine Pedersen after volunteers cleaned out her flower beds. After projects were completed in the morning, Arty’s provided lunch at a discount for all volunteers. United Way of Muscatine hosts multiple Day of Caring events throughout the year for both students and employees. To learn more about Day of Caring and how you can help, contact Hilary Henke at hilary@unitedwaymuscatine.org or 563-263-5963. About United Way of Muscatine The mission of United Way of Muscatine is to mobilize resources to empower the greater Muscatine community to improve the lives of people in need.
	Pay it Forward \| Preschool teacher provides comfort for children in hospitals Amanda Long is a preschool teacher who goes above and beyond for children outside the classroom. Long spends her time creating goodie bags for hospitalized kids.
	UnityPoint Health doctor raising awareness about the risks of strokes Dr. Mohammed Sajed said one of the signs to look for in people having a stroke is sudden weakness on one side.
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| May 23, 2024 There are many family-friendly events going on this weekend, and we've brought in Dani Howe from WLLR to break it down.
	Bally's Quad Cities celebrates National Teacher Appreciation Day Bally's Quad Cities celebrated National Teacher Appreciation Day by donating and delivering 70 boxed lunches to Rock Island Academy, a news release says. Recognizing the hard work and dedication of teachers, Bally's Quad Cities expressed its gratitude by providing meals to fuel the educators throughout their busy day. Teacher Appreciation Day (Bally's Quad Cities) "We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of the teachers and staff at Rock Island Academy," said Travis Hankins, vice president and general manager at Bally's Quad Cities. "Their passion for education deserves recognition, and we are honored to show our appreciation on National Teacher Appreciation Day." Bally's Quad Cities remains committed to supporting the local community and believes in the power of education, the release says. By recognizing the efforts of teachers, they hope to inspire others to value and appreciate the significant impact educators have on the lives of students.
	Living Lands & Waters partners with the John Deere Classic to plant trees around the Quad Cities A total of 1,929 trees will be planted, which is 1 for each birdie scored in the 2023 tournament.
	Happy to help feed: MCSD & USDA Free Summer Meal Program returns Muscatine Community School District will again participate in the USDA’s Free Summer Meal Program. The program will run from June 12 to July 31.
	Community Foundation awards over $500,000 in scholarships to area students The Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine and its affiliate, the Community Foundation of Louisa County, were able to award over 170 scholarships valued at over $500,000 to local graduates.
	Sinclair donates $25,000 to Muscatine County Fairgrounds event center Sinclair Tractor has become the latest of many to donate to the construction of a new event center on the Muscatine County Fairgrounds in West Liberty.
	Golden Apple Accelerators program inducts largest cohort of future Illinois teachers The Illinois Golden Apple non-profit inducted its largest cohort of aspiring teachers into its 2024 Accelerators Program.
	Greenfield, Iowa residents recovering after deadly tornado destroys town The small community of Greenfield, Iowa, is reeling after an "at least" EF-3 tornado came through town, injuring more than a dozen and killing multiple people.
	Davenport woman accused of double murder moved to Marshall County Jail Accused of being part of a double homicide in Davenport, Adriana Blake will now be housed 153 miles away.
	Firefighters battle flames at early morning trailer fire in Milan It happened around 3:30 a.m. Thursday in the Woodland Mobile Home Park on Coyne Center Road.
	Eldridge utility board votes to undo legal actions by previous board members New members of the board that governs Eldridge's municipal utility voted to undo legal action previous members of the board took against the city.
	Early morning truck fire under investigation in Davenport A fire official tells TV6 it happened around 2 a.m. Thursday on W. 50th St/Sheridan St. near Welcome Way in front of the McDonald’s.
	Ride on the wild side at FORC-Side Thrill Ride Take a ride on the wild side at the FORC-Side Thrill Ride! Using natural terrain with leg-burning climbs and thrilling downhills, ride across large wooden berms, skinny creek crossings and more in Davenport's Sunderbruch Park, voted 'Number One Mountain Bike Trail' in Iowa. The race is the 3rd and final installment of FORC's (Friends of Off-Road Cycling) 2024 three-part race series. Featuring a kids' race and challenges for even the most experienced riders, FORC-Side Thrill Ride Mountain Bike Race is Sunday, June 2 at Sunderbruch Park, located at 4675 Telegraph Rd., Davenport. To register, or for more information, click here.
	Hear from the Republican candidates for Scott County Auditor Current Auditor Kerri Tompkins is running for election against a primary challenger, Mark Nelson. Both answered a survey from the Quad-City Times. Read their responses.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 23, 2024 George D. Lockhart, 82, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away Sunday, May 19, 2024. Arrangements are pending at the Runge Mortuary.
	Live Music for June: Metal, Indie Rock, and Things Between on June 1 and 15 Black metal was born in Scandinavia more than three decades ago, the devilish creation of bored, angry, and misanthropic teenagers who sought to take the rawness of thrash and carry it to faster and more sinister extremes. Thirty-plus years later, the style is more popular than ever, but many bands have realized that reinventing the diabolical wheel is not enough.
	Cleanup efforts underway after destructive winds sweep through eastern Iowa Tuesday Storms produced wind speeds of at least 70 to 90 mph, damaging trees, snapping power poles and ripping roofs off homes and businesses.
Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024
	QC Edition: National Travel and Tourism Week National Travel and Tourism week gives QCA residents an opportunity to celebrate what all the region offers. The Quad Cities has a variety of vibrant arts, entertainment, scenic riverfronts, and cultural scenes.
	Bettendorf’s Summer Concert Series returns in June There are 10 reasons to spend every Thursday night this summer at Faye’s Field, city officials said. The Bettendorf Public Library is excited to announce the return of it’s wildly popular Summer Concert Series.
	Douglas Park dedicated at Party in the Park Rock Island Parks and Recreation held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Douglas Park. Party in the Park celebrated the completion of renovations at Douglas done to the concession stand, press box and a new playground. There was face painting, bounce houses and yard games, along with free hotdogs. Kids played a game of kickball against Rock Island police officers, and even Our Quad Cities News Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray joined in on the fun. For more information on Douglas Park, click here.
	The city of Rock Island reopens Douglas Park following renovations The city of Rock Island held a ribbon cutting Wednesday for the reopening of Douglas Park along with its party in the park celebration.
	City of Muscatine to host Almost Friday Fest on Thursday The City of Muscatine will be hosting their Almost Friday Fest on Thursday and some parking restrictions will be in place.
	Illinois could offer tax incentives for technology jobs Quantum computing is expected to lead to major breakthroughs in different fields,and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker wants his state to be a player in the technology game. As Our Quad Cities News Illinois Capitol Bureau Chief Cole Henke reports, Illinois is getting closer to offering tax incentives for companies to bring jobs in the tech fields.
	Gov. Reynolds orders flags at half staff to honor Iowa Department of Transportation worker In Iowa, Gov. Kim Reynolds is ordering all flags to be flown at half staff on Thursday to honor a member of the Iowa Department of Transportation who was killed while working on I-80 last week.
	1 dead after forklift accident, Burlington Police Department says A man is dead after a forklift accident, according to officers with the Burlington Police Department.
	Aftermath of severe weather on QCA farms As severe weather made its way across the QCA and beyond, farms in Clinton County are now dealing with the aftermath as strong winds knocked down trees and took down buildings near Lost Nation. Our Quad Cities News reporter Linsey Tobin shows us the toll damage has taken on one area family.
	Man charged in Knox County storage unit burglary investigation The Knox County Sheriff’s Office made an arrest in an ongoing investigation involving multiple burglaries.
	Catholic Diocese of Peoria announces major parish mergers and closures Major changes are coming to the Catholic Diocese of Peoria, impacting several parishes in the Quad Cities region. Some parishes will be merging, and some buildings will be closing.
	How Rock Island National Cemetery keeps its veterans' headstones bright and white Twice a year, contractors will power wash and brush nearly 30,000 headstones on the Rock Island Arsenal.
	High winds in Maquoketa rip roof off Eagles Club, damages two other buildings The Eagles Club will decide its next steps based on what a structural engineer determines.
	Sherrard students learn Spanish to talk with pen pals in California Third graders in Stephanie Hampton's class made a Spanish word wall and practiced with staff in the building so they could speak in Spanish with their pen pals.
	Why did Tuesday's severe storms fizzle out before hitting the Quad Cities? The same storm system that ripped across Iowa and ravaged the community of Greenfield was greatly weakened when it reached the Quad Cities area.
	Why did Tuesday's severe storms fizzle out before hitting the Quad Cities? The same storm system that ripped across Iowa and ravaged the community of Greenfield was greatly weakened when it reached the Quad Cities area.
	High winds tear roof off Eagles Club building in Maquoketa, damages nearby business News 8's Maddie Franz shows how the community plans to pick up the pieces after high winds swept through May 21.
	Meta considers Davenport for new data center campus A state board recently approved an application for a financial incentive to build a Meta data center campus in Davenport.
	Understanding black cutworms' impact on corn crops Virgil Schmitt, extension field agronomist for Iowa State, joined The Current on News 8 to talk about how black cutworms can negatively affect corn crops.
	Severe weather damages Maquoketa homes and businesses The scene in Maquoketa showed trees blown over onto houses, debris in the streets and even a roof being blown off of a building, even affecting nearby businesses and apartment complexes. The roof was part of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Maquoketa, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting peace, prosperity, and hope. Many involved with the buildings damaged are hoping for the best, to rebuild what they lost. "It was loud, it was very loud in there," Secretary Trustee Michael Duhme said. "We couldn't hear the sirens, and we found that in the back here the roof was gone. A lot of insulation was outside at that point." Neighbors around the area went out to help others affected by the storm after it traveled through, and some businesses were hit hard. "It was 70 miles per hour, then the second warning came out for 90 mile per hour winds to our north and to our east," Maquoketa resident Brett Massey said. "Storm sirens blew, so our law enforcement did a good job of getting those out very quickly. West end of Maquoketa when it first happened was without power. It impacted local businesses that were still open. Gas stations, a couple of retail stores were without power for a while." Local business owner came out to help the Eagles Club, with possible restructuring of the building that can be done by the weekend. "There's been a lot of support," Duhme said. "We took out what we could last night, it was late when we got out of there. We moved a lot of stuff out." "When you live in a tight knit community like this, its sort of like oh man these people are going through something too," Mississippi Valley Metals owner Steve Kurtzsaid. "It's sort of like what can we do to reach out and help. That's pretty much what everyone is doing here." "There's a lot of money that we pour into the community," Duhme said. "But right now, we just have to take it day by day."
	Bettendorf sets new Summer Concert Series The cities of Moline and Bettendorf will have a virtual battle of the bands this summer, as they do every year, with dueling Thursday night concert series. While Moline launched its Bass Street Landing Summer Concert Series downtown last week, each Thursday, the city of Bettendorf will drop the needle on its Faye’s Field concert series (outside the Bettendorf Public Library) on Thursday, June 6. This 10-week event begins June 6th and takes place every Thursday night through August 15th (with the exception of July 4th due to other festivities taking place across the city). 10 Of Soul -- the QC band that brings to the stage a dynamic range of classic soul, funk, and pop -- will start the free Bettendorf concert series Thursday, June 6 at Faye's Field. The free concerts start at 6:30 p.m. at Faye's Field, 2850 Learning Campus Drive. You are encouraged to bring chairs along with your own food and drinks. In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held inside the Bettendorf Public Library, 2950 Learning Campus Drive. The concert schedule is: June 6 -- 10 of Soul June 13 -- The Tailfins June 20 -- The Blackstones June 27 -- Fair Warning July 11 -- Crooked Cactus July 18 -- Funktastic July 25 -- Avey Grouws Band Aug. 1 -- Troy Rangel and Friends Aug. 8 -- The Velies Aug. 15 -- Angela Meyer The Summer Concert Series is funded by the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation and supported by Title Sponsor TBK Bank, as well as Autographed Edition Sponsors: Bettendorf Rotary Club and Duck Creek Tire & Service. You can find more information about this event and others happening at the Bettendorf Public Library by clicking HERE or by calling (563) 344-4175.
	Common Chord to host Downtown Davenport Summer Kickoff Block Party Common Chord is set to host their ‘Live at 5′ Summer Kickoff Block Party in June.
	Hy-Vee offers free grocery delivery for one year following the upcoming closure of Davenport store Residents must live within one mile of the store, and purchases must be a minimum of $24.95 to be eligible.
	Registration now open for annual Gilda's Club 'Run for Hope' The 5K & 1-mile Fun Run will take place in Coal Valley on Saturday, June 29. Funds will go toward Gilda's Club Quad Cities, benefitting families impacted by cancer.
	Help kids in foster care with QC Closet2Closet As Augustana College students are moving out for the end of the school year, they're getting the opportunity to give items they don't need to kids in foster care. Liam Haskill dropped by Our Quad Cities News to talk about QC Closet2Closet. For more information, click here.
	Hy-Vee offers free grocery delivery for one year following the upcoming closure of Rockingham Road location Residents must live within one mile of the store and purchases must be a minimum of $24.95 to be eligible.
	Memorial Day preparations include cleaning thousands of Rock Island National Cemetery headstones Twice a year, contractors will power wash and brush nearly 30,000 headstones on the Rock Island Arsenal.
	Moline River Front + Centre Plan seek community feedback for Moline’s riverfront survey before summer begins Moline River Front + Centre Plan are asking for the community’s help in gathering feedback on the draft version of Moline’s riverfront before everyone’s busy summer starts. This will be the third community survey.
	Rep. Dan Swanson working for funding to restore state historic sites Bishop Hill was recently listed on Landmarks Illinois’ list of the Ten Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois. According to a news release, the site was “threatened since the Illinois Department of Natural Resources has not been provided with sufficient funding to properly maintain the site.” State Representative Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) has been trying to get state funding for these sites for years. Back in July of 2021, he hosted IDNR director Colleen Callahan and later Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton to discuss the situation. “I wanted to bring awareness to the director of IDNR, who had responsibility for Bishop Hill, and also the lieutenant governor to try and bring attention at the executive level to what we were dealing with,” he told Our Quad Cities News via Zoom. “Fortunately, they both agreed that hey, something needs to be done. Unfortunately, nothing was done.” Swanson said the lack of maintenance has led to the need for drastic renovations at both Bishop Hill and the Carl Sandburg birthplace in Galesburg. “It's been ignored for so long that those things that need to be patched and fixed and it needs to be done quickly. Deferred maintenance creates larger maintenance issues.” He says an $800 million budget shortfall for the state is part of the problem. “It (the deferred maintenance) didn't happen overnight. It's been a long, progressive event and we've continued to bring that to the attention of others, and it just seems to be falling on deaf ears.” Swanson says residents who are concerned about these sites can contact the state’s executive branch by emailing, calling or writing to the governor. “I feel we’re well represented in the district with Representative Weaver and Senator (Neil) Anderson (R, 47th District). They know the concerns. I know the concerns. Senator (Mike) Halpin (D-72nd District) is involved, and he understands the concerns.” Swanson recently spoke on the House floor about Senate Bill 2976. Among other things, the bill would remove distinctions between state historic sites, state memorials and miscellaneous properties. It would authorize the State Historic Preservation Board to modify, remove or add properties to the list of state historic sites. “State-owned properties like the Carl Sandburg Birthplace and Bishop Hill have been neglected and deprioritized for too long,” said Travis Weaver (R-Edwards). “I am optimistic this legislation will help these properties get the attention they need. Carl Sandburg’s birthplace in Galesburg is also in dire need of repairs, said Swanson. “The roof, leaking ceilings need repaired. The list is quite lengthy; close to a half million dollars in repairs required there.” Repairing these sites is more than protecting history, he said. “It's important, we need to get these fixed. They bring in revenue; we forget that they bring in revenue to our state and to our cities and to our counties.” Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as organizing a fundraiser or GoFundMe page for the repairs. “The estimates for Bishop Hill are around $22 million. That's a lot of money for an association to try and tackle. It's gonna take a big crew to come in and bring it back up to any type of standards. I know there have been some people who have said hey, I'd like to help donate but $22 million and then a half million dollars in Galesburg? So yeah, it's a lot of money.” Bishop Hill has played a big part in Swanson’s family. “It's just so many memories there. Not only my generation, my dad's generation, my grandfather's generation, going there to Bishop Hill for family reunions at Bishop Hill Park. As a child, we would go there often for Fourth of July celebrations and other events. I actually took a class at Western Illinois University called Bishop Hill, a couple of weekend classes, so I learned a lot more details.” “We've had several Honor Flight fundraisers there. But it would be to bring tears to many people's eyes if we're not able to save the church and other sites in Bishop Hill and Galesburg.”
	Clark signs multiyear deal with Wilson Sporting Goods for signature basketball line The No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft will also test, advise and provide feedback on a range of Wilson basketball products.
	At least four killed in Greenfield tornado, neighbors say Greenfield, Iowa residents say four of their neighbors did not survive the devastating storms that passed through the area on Tuesday, the Des Moines Register reports.
	Hawkeyes to play two Friday football games First, the Hawks will travel to Pasadena to take on new Big Ten team UCLA at the Rose Bowl stadium for a November 8th matchup.
	Registration now open for annual Gilda's Club 'Run for Hope' The 5K & 1-mile Fun Run will take place in Coal Valley on Saturday, June 29. Funds will go toward Gilda's Club Quad Cities, benefitting families impacted by cancer.
	Galesburg selects new director of finance The City of Galesburg has selected a candidate to fill the position of director of finance.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: JOSE RODRIGUEZ-LOPEZ, 22, 6’0”, 220 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Rock Island County warrant for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. MATTHEW ROWE, 28, 5’11”, 165 pounds, brown hair, green eyes. Rock Island County warrant for two counts of felony theft. Jose Rodriguez-Lopez (L) and Matthew Rowe (Crime Stoppers) You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at (309) 762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	Sterling schools enter lockdown after threat, discovery of man with loaded firearm near high school Two separate instances lead to a limited access lockdown across the district on Tuesday.
	Iowa women’s basketball assistant coach Jenni Fitzgerald to retire Iowa women’s basketball Special Assistant to the Head Coach, Jenni Fitzgerald, is retiring.
	Downtown Rock Island street closes for gas leak 4th Avenue in downtown Rock Island shut down at 24th Street early this afternoon for a natural gas leak, according to Rock Island Fire Department. The downtown construction crew hit a gas line Wednesday, and Rock Island Fire, Moline Fire, Metronet, and MidAmerican Energy were at the scene to repair it, and block off the area.
	Keegan Murray to tee off at John Deere Classic Pro-Am Former Iowa Hawkeye basketball star Keegan Murray will tee off during this year's John Deere Classic Pro-Am.
	Deputies: Man dies after tractor rolled in Dubuque Co. A Dyersville man is dead after a tractor rolled in Dubuque County Sunday, deputies say.
	Hy-Vee responds to concerns over closing Iowa stores, offers measures to ease transition The Rockingham Road stores officially close in June.
	Illinois Department of Public Health issues warning regarding animals with rabies Scientists in Illinois recently discovered two bats with rabies in Cook and Will Counties. Officials want to remind residents to get their pets vaccinated.
	Buildings in Davenport industrial park sold for $42M JLL announced today that it has closed a $42.6-million sale of Buildings 1 and 6 in the Russell Industrial Park in Davenport, to a private, unnamed buyer. The buildings acquired total 380,000 square feet on behalf of Russell, a Davenport-based construction and development firm. A private buyer acquired the 100% leased buildings, according to a Wednesday release from the JLL Des Moines team. The Russell Industrial Park covers 95 acres at 8730 Northwest Blvd., Davenport. The 95-acre industrial park is located at 8730 Northwest Blvd. in Davenport and consists of six buildings totaling nearly 1.5 million square feet. Notable tenants in this transaction include Nestlé Purina, PODS, Crescent Electric and Tube and Solid Tire, JLL said. JLL’s Michael Minard, Senior Vice President, Marcus Pitts, Senior Managing Director, Austin Hedstrom, Executive Vice President and Tanner Hedstrom, Vice President, represented the seller, Russell, in the transaction. According to JLL Des Moines’ 2024 Q1 Industrial Outlook, the industrial real estate market is experiencing robust momentum, exemplified by the completion of several significant projects in the first quarter of the year. In Q2, the market can anticipate a surge in leasing activity as multiple major warehouse users are actively searching for available space, the company said. “A premier destination for companies to build their warehousing and logistics operations in, this industrial portfolio takes full advantage of the market’s comprehensive transportation network,” said Minard. “The sale demonstrates one of, if not the biggest, sale transaction in the Quad Cities in the last 20 years.” The location of the industrial park is near I-80 and the Davenport Municipal Airport. “We are proud to be at the forefront of the industrial expansion that has taken place in the Quad Cities region in recent years,” Damen Trebilcock, vice president at Russell, said in the release. “Our partners on this project keep pushing us to do more. Building 3 is ready for lease and will be delivered this fall.” Adjacent to Davenport Municipal Airport, the Russell Industrial Park offers immediate access to the region’s interstates, river barges and distributor facilities. The buildings feature 34 docks, 28-to-36 foot clear heights and LED warehouse lighting. The industrial park’s six new buildings total 1,469,340 square feet. JLL is a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, that helps clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. It’s a Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $20.8 billion and operations in over 80 countries.
	QC foundation approves $202,000 in new grants The Moline Regional Community Foundation Board has approved grants of $202,000 for 35 area nonprofit organizations. The funds will be used for capital and program expenses, according to a Wednesday press release. Paul Plagenz, president/CEO of Moline Regional Community Foundation “These grants are focused on improving our area residents' quality of life through support of arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, and human services programs and capital needs,” Paul Plagenz, president/CEO of Moline Regional Community Foundation, said in the release. “Generous financial support from our donors made these awards a reality and shows how giving in action can profoundly change lives.” “We are grateful to the Moline Regional Community Foundation for giving us the opportunity to expand our impact within the community,” said Kim Harrison, executive director of Mercer County Family Crisis Center, which received $25,000. “For 40 years, we have been serving Mercer County by providing support, advocacy, and education on domestic violence and child abuse. The generous gift from the foundation will allow us to broaden our efforts and reach even more people,” she said. Butterworth Center, at 1105 8th St., Moline, is getting a $20,000 grant for capital renovations. Among the largest grants from the foundation (which serves the region) are: Butterworth Center, Moline -- $20,000 for capital renovations. Two Rivers YMCA -- $10,000 for summer day camp and Nourish program. Youth Service Bureau of Rock Island County -- $7,500 for counseling at-risk youth. Quad Cities Golf Classic Charitable Foundation -- $7,500 for military outpost program. Humble Dwellings -- $7,500 for From Plastic Bags and Tubs to Dressers program. Hauberg Civic Center -- $7,500 for sustainable revenue development project. Habitat for Humanity -- $7,500 for making homes accessible. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Valley -- $7,500 for out-of-school programming for underserved youth. An award ceremony will be held at the Butterworth Center (1105 8th St., Moline) on Wednesday, June 6th, starting at 8:30 a.m. For more information on Moline Regional Community Foundation, click HERE.
	REVIEW: The House of Blue Leaves at Playcrafters Barn Theatre The House of Blue Leaves continues at Playcrafters Barn Theatre, 4950 – 35th Avenue in Moline, Friday and Saturday, May 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 26 at 3:00 p.m.
	REVIEW: To Kill A Mockingbird at The Black Box Theatre To Kill a Mockingbird continues at The Black Box Theatre Thursday through Saturday, May 23 through 25 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, May 26 at 2:00 p.m.
	Task Force: 80-year-old man shot by East Moline police has died The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force is investigating the incident.
	Maquoketa’s Eagles Club damaged as strong winds, severe weather sweeps through Tuesday night Severe weather involving strong winds swept across the state of Iowa Tuesday evening. Maquoketa was one of the towns that reported damages including devastation to the Eagle’s Club.
	LIVE: Gov. Reynolds to speak in Greenfield after devastating storms Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds will be in Greenfield Wednesday morning to see the damage caused by Tuesday’s storms.
	Register now for River Action Senior Golf Tours Registration is now open for River Action’s Senior Golf Cart Tours on September 5-6. This year’s offerings include a tour of the Arsenal Island in the early evening, giving participants an usually unseen look at the Mississippi River and the island. There are tours on both sides of the river, with Illinois side tours on Thursday, September 5 and Iowa side tours on Friday, September 6. Each cart, which can hold two people, is $30. Seniors who can’t drive themselves can arrange for a driver during registration. Tours available this year include: Illinois Tour A: Tour the Rock Island Arsenal’s beautiful riverfront trail, with stops at the Col. Davenport House, the 1856 Bridge Pier, the Civil War Confederate prisoner of war camp, the National Cemetery, the Colonel's Row of Quarters and the historic Rock Island Arsenal Quarters One commander's home. A valid ID is necessary to enter Arsenal Island. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., 2 – 4 p.m. and the Twilight Tour from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Illinois Tour B: Visit Rock Island and Moline riverfront, starting at Sunset Park, going to Ben Butterworth Parkway and returning to Sunset Park. There will be speeches in both Moline and Rock Island. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Illinois Tour C: This tour starts in Rapids City and moves through Port Byron to Cordova and back. There will be speakers in each community. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Iowa Tour D: This tour travels along Duck Creek Trail, starting in Davenport and turning around in Bettendorf. Speakers from each city’s Planning and Public Works Departments will brief participants on new developments along the route. Available time slots are 9 – 11 am., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Iowa Tour E: This tour starts at Miller Avenue and S. Concord Street. Speakers will focus on the new wetlands and trails at Nahant Marsh. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Iowa Tour F: Visit the Davenport and Bettendorf riverfronts, starting at Credit Island and moving to Leach Park and back. Speakers from both cities will update participants on new developments along the route. Available time slots are 9 – 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. Click here for more information or to register.
	Moline Library Gardens to have groundbreakng The Moline Public Library invites the community to celebrate the start of the $1.4-million Moline Gardens project on Tuesday, May 28 at 4 p.m., at 3210 41st St. Local dignitaries and supporters will make brief remarks, then break ground in the future Gardens area, located on the south side of the library building, according to a Wednesday release. Beginning in 2021, the Moline Library Gardens developed out of a desire to create a unique expansion to the library, where the community can gather in a welcoming and inviting outdoor space. The Library Board of Trustees enlisted two local businesses, Shive-Hattery Architecture and Engineering and Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities, to undertake the project, the library said. The Gardens is expected to be completed in the spring of 2025. “The Moline Library Gardens is a significant milestone in our continuing efforts to enhance the library experience for all patrons,” said Bryon Lear, Moline Public Library director. “This groundbreaking ceremony will be the culmination of several years of planning and collaboration. It will be an exciting day for everyone involved in this project.” Among the Gardens’ many features include a multi-use pavilion and stage, flexible event lawn, an interactive story loop, butterfly garden, and multiple areas for gathering, reading, or participating in library events. Through May 27, tote bags designed and made by the Teen Library Council are on sale to support the Gardens. Plain and tie-dyed totes are now available at the 2nd Floor Information Desk or order online HERE. Tote bags are for sale through May 27 to benefit the Moline Library Gardens project. The totes are $7 each and all proceeds go to support the Moline Library Gardens. To learn more about the Moline Library Gardens, click HERE.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for May 22, 2024 Sterling High School was on temporary lockdown due to an unrelated traffic stop, and a shooting victim from East Moline died from their injuries.
	Muscatine County Supervisors deny zoning request The request had been previously approved 3-2 by the county planning and zoning commission. The county staff had recommended against rezoning the property.
	Former Muscatine County corrections officer charged with possession of child pornography A former Muscatine County Corrections officer has been charged with multiple counts of possession of child pornography.
	Davenport Speedway guarantees action-packed night When the cars and stars of the Malvern Bank SLMR East Series come to Davenport Speedway on Friday, May 24, it will mark the 10th time in series history. It is five more than any other track in the series that started in 2020, according to a news release. The best late model drivers in the region will be on hand to race for the $3,000 first place prize. Support classes at Davenport Speedway will be IMCA Modifieds, Sport Mods, and Hobby Stocks. The modifieds will be competing for $1,000-to-win. The modified feature is also a qualifier for the Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational. Modifieds will have a $30 entry fee for Friday’s race. Grandstand admission will be $25 for adults, $10 for children (5-10), and kids (4 and under) are free. Pit passes are $40 for adults, $25 for children (10 and under). The pit gate opens at 3:30 p.m., and hot laps are at 6:30 p.m., with racing to follow. Friday is also Scott County Cattleman’s Association Night at Davenport Speedway. For more information, visit SR Promotions on Facebook.
	'We will find you': Moline police arrest man accused of post-prom double murder At a press conference Tuesday, Moline police said a Davenport man has been charged with killing Zachary Meincke and Giovanni Flores.
	Pleasant Valley High School junior Tanya Rastogi turns to art, poetry Pleasant Valley junior Tanya Rastogi, the 2024 Iowa Student Poet Ambassador, didn’t become interested in poetry until her sophomore year.
	Muscatine Aquatic Center to open May 25 Muscatine Parks and Recreation announced the Aquatic Center will open for the season Saturday, May 25 at 12:00 p.m. The center will be closed Sunday, May 26 due to the Melon City Criterium in Weed Park. The facility will reopen on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27 and be closed May 28-29. Daily operations are scheduled to begin Thursday, May 30. The Aquatic Center's hours of operation are 1200-8:00 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Registration for programs offered by the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department is still open, but the deadline is May 30 at 5:00 p.m. For more information, click here.
	Orion trustees approve project to alleviate drainage issue Orion trustees approved a $52,171 bid from Porter Brothers Construction of Rock Falls for a sewer extension at 10th Street and 14th Avenue B.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 22, 2024 Thomas Edward Crosby, 90, of Geneseo, IL, passed away on May 19, 2024, at his home in Geneseo, IL. Arrangements are pending with Wendt Funeral Home, Moline, IL.
	Buried Stories: Louie Bellson (1924-2009) Luigi Paul Balassone Sr. moved his music story to 1171 Fifth Avenue in Moline, Illinois, when his son Louie was a child. As Louie later said, “My dad had taught me practically every aria from every Italian opera.” He added, “It’s all music, whether it’s opera or jazz, and maybe you can hear a little of both in what I play.”
Tuesday, May 21st, 2024
	Strong winds and severe weather sweep through QCA damaging Maquoketa’s Eagles Club Severe weather involving strong winds swept across the state of Iowa Tuesday evening. Maquoketa was one of the towns that reported damages including devastation to the Eagle’s Club.
	NWS to assess storm and tornado damage on Wednesday The severe weather threat has ended for Tuesday night in our area. There were many wind, hail and even a tornado report in the local area Tuesday. The National Weather Service will review storm reports from today and then likely send out a damage survey crew to hardest hit areas on Wednesday. That could take them the the Wilton, IA area where there was likely a tornado on Tuesday. Other areas to consider include NW Clinton County, and Jackson County in and around Maquoketa. We'll have full details on what they determine caused today's damage (mainly outside of QC metro area) on Wednesday.
	USPS defending modernization efforts to Congress Lawmakers asked the agency to hold off on some changes, including one that would've moved services from Milan to Des Moines.
	Moline Police arrest man in connection to double homicide that killed 2 teenagers Moline police have arrested a Davenport man in connection to a May 5 double homicide that left two teenagers dead.
	LIVE UPDATES: Severe storms move through Iowa, Illinois Tuesday StormTrack8 is monitoring the storm as it passes through the Quad Cities area. Here are live updates to keep you weather aware.
	Gov. Reynolds to visit Greenfield Wednesday, issues statement on impact of severe weather Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued the following statement regarding the impact of severe weather across the state of Iowa Tuesday.

Thursday, May 23rd, 2024

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024