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

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024
	Tornadoes possible this evening in the Quad Cities Tornadoes are possible today in the Quad Cities, says WVIK Meteorologist Gary Best.
	Man shot by police during Friday confrontation in East Moline dies from injuries, officials say Officials confirmed this was not police's first encounter with the subject. They were dispatched to the apartment complex the day before for a physical altercation.
	Boil order issued for part of Rock Island The impacted area spans from 2208 31st Avenue to the intersection of 17th Street and 31st Avenue.
	Man shot Friday by East Moline police died overnight in Peoria The man, who had life-threatening wounds, died overnight, the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force said Tuesday afternoon. He had been transported to a hospital in Peoria.
	Man shot by East Moline police in Friday confrontation dies from injuries, officials say The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force has announced an autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. The incident remains under investigation.
	Boil order issued for part of Rock Island The impacted area spans from 2208 31st Avenue to the intersection of 17th Street and 31st Avenue.
	Task Force: 80-year-old man shot by East Moline police has died The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force is investigating the incident.
	Officer-involved shooting suspect dies The 80-year-old man who was shot by police May 17 in East Moline died overnight. The man passed away at a hospital in Peoria and an autopsy is scheduled for this morning, according to a Tuesday release by Moline Police Chief Darren Gault of the Rock Island County Task Force. The Peoria County Coroner plans to release the identity of the person sometime later today, he said. The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force is comprised of several area law enforcement agencies. In accordance with state law, the coroner has jurisdiction over the name of the deceased. The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force is still investigating this incident. No other updates are available at this time. At approximately 2:17 p.m. on May 17, 2024, the East Moline Police Department responded to Hometown Harbor Apartment Complex at 1011 49th Ave., East Moline for a person with a gun call. As previously reported, an officer-involved shooting occurred with the suspect in the incident. The suspect, 80, had fired a handgun. The incident occurred outside and the caller updated 911 saying the man headed west down 49th Avenue and was near the community room on 10th Street. Two East Moline Police officers arrived at 2:24 p.m. and encountered the man, who was armed with a handgun. A confrontation occurred and “one or more officers discharged their firearm,” according to a task force release. Officers administered first aid and EMS was dispatched. EMS arrived at 2:30 p.m. The man, who was in a motorized wheelchair, was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. His firearm was recovered at the scene. East Moline Police Chief Jeff Ramsey immediately requested the Rock Island County Integrity Task Force (RICITF) to respond. State law requires an outside agency or task force to investigate an officer-involved shooting.
	Channel Cat opening for 2024 season It’s time to get back on the river with the Channel Cat! The Channel Cat Water Taxi season officially starts on Friday, May 24, at 9 a.m. Passengers can board at four Channel Cat docking locations: John Deere Commons in Moline, RiverBend Commons in Moline, Isle Casino Hotel in Bettendorf, The Village of East Davenport. Tickets for all day unlimited use are $8 for adults, and $4 for children ages 2-10. Children under the age of two ride free with an adult ticket. Tickets can be purchased on board, at Centre Station, 1200 River Drive in Moline (cash only) or through the Channel Cat mobile app (credit or debit). The Channel Cat runs seven days a week through Labor Day. Click here for more information or call (309) 788-3360.
	Alternating Currents announces new film lineup Alternating Currents (Aug. 15-18, 2024) will host the Quad Cities’ largest annual film festival in a new venue this year. The Last Picture House, 325 E. 2nd St., Davenport, has a new rooftop bar and outdoor screen. This year, 24 official film selections will be shown at The Last Picture House, 325 E. 2nd St., Davenport, co-owned by filmmakers (and Bettendorf natives) Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. The venue boasts two indoor theaters and a rooftop theater for outdoor viewing. The new space offers an exciting opportunity for filmmakers to screen in a state-of-the-art venue for an intimate viewing experience for attendees, according to an event release Tuesday. Alternating Currents Film Festival has attracted filmmakers locally, nationally and internationally, including submissions from Paris, Los Angeles, Hamburg, London, New York City, Chicago, Iowa City, Des Moines and the Quad Cities. Since its inception in 2017, the festival has received over 300 submissions and put a spotlight on local filmmakers, including hosting a special event with Beck and Woods (whose films include “A Quiet Place,” “The Boogeyman,” and “65”). Among the 2024 film screenings to be held at AC are: “Adieu Gaston,” Director: Victor Guilbaud (France) Emile is a contract killer who travels by bicycle and who kills in exchange for a few tickets left in a small mailbox lost in the middle of the fields. This time, the man to be slaughtered is named Gaston Pouget and lives at 7 rue des Peupliers, which is a shed on the edge of a highway. Arriving on the scene, Emile is surprised by a birthday in honor of Gaston who should arrive soon. Emile was not invited. “Broken Flight,” Directors: Erika Valenciana, Mitchell Wenkus (Chicago) Migration season is when Annette Prince and the other Chicago Collision Bird Monitors are the busiest as Mother Nature literally slams into the urban environment. In this documentary, Annette assembles volunteers as they arrive downtown before sunrise, looking for birds that have flown into skyscrapers—before heading to their day jobs. The birds that survive are sent away for a stay at the Willowbrook Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. “Broken Flight” introduces us to the volunteers, scientists and veterinarians who rescue, study and catalog these amazing avian species. “Essential Essence,” Director: Patrick Boberg (Des Moines) This film was created in 48 hours for the 48 Hour Film Project. The idea to make a puppet film popped up on Christmas Day 2022, via a random text conversation. From there the makers set out to make 6 puppets, but that number eventually grew into making more than a dozen. They had no idea what story they were going to tell, but had a wonderful set of original props. “Meet Me at the End of It All,” Director: Brandon Gale (Rock Island) In a world on the brink of annihilation by an impending meteor strike, this story follows the unlikely encounter between Kim and Ian, two souls grappling with their impending end. As they navigate the desolate streets in search of refuge, Kim stumbles upon Ian atop a deserted parking garage, resigned to witness the world's demise in solitude. Despite their initial differences, they form an unexpected bond as they share their stories of love lost and the personal struggles that led them to this pivotal moment. Through heartfelt conversations and moments of vulnerability, they confront their pasts, confronting the regrets and heartaches that have left them alone in their final hours. Against the backdrop of impending doom, "Meet Me at the End of It All" is a poignant exploration of love, loss and the transformative power of human connection in the face of adversity. As the world teeters on the brink of oblivion, Kim and Ian's journey serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of love can still shine through. “Parallel Lines,” Director: Hannah Rosalie Wright (Des Moines) This is the music video for “Parallel Lines,” written and performed by Holding Hour, an indie rock/shoegaze/dreampop duo from Iowa. A couple lives separate lives under the same roof. “Cultural Abduction,” Director: Abdur M. Howard (Davenport) “Cultural Abduction” is a film that shines a light on the remembrance and love of oneself and one’s culture. Director Abdur Howard said, “It is often that people ask me what inspired ‘Cultural Abduction.’ While the true meaning behind the film would far exceed a short summary, I can say that Cultural Abduction is an ode to the people who hide from their own greatness. Please use this film as a reminder to never trade authenticity for approval and always remember individuality's power. No matter who you are, where you are, or who you are with, remember where you came from. You can only connect the dots by looking backward.” “Voice Fugue,” Director: Kimberly Buikema (Brooklyn, NY – originally from Morrison, IL) “Voice Fugue” experiments with dual meanings of the word fugue, using fugal composition techniques to edit both spoken text and imagery to tell a brief story of unexpected wandering, disassociation and loss of identity. Along with being a musical form, fugue also refers to a disassociated, amnesiac state in which a person loses all sense of self, identity and memory. “Voice Fugue” experiments with both of these meanings, using fugal composition techniques to edit both spoken text and imagery to tell a brief story of unexpected wandering, disassociation and loss of identity. For more information, visit the festival website HERE.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for May 21, 2024 Galesburg leaders are moving forward with a business plan with Western Smokehouse Partners, and Kim Reynolds has vetoed a bill to increase open meetings penalties.
	'23 Ambrose alum earns Fulbright award St. Ambrose University alum Daniel Salazar ’23 is a new Fulbright Program finalist, or award winner, and will undertake an English teaching assistantship in Spain. The Fulbright Program is a prestigious international grant that gives students, scholars, and professionals the opportunity to teach and study in more than 140 countries. Fewer than 20% of applicants to the Fulbright program achieve finalist status, according to a Tuesday SAU release. Daniel Salazar of Muscatine graduated from St. Ambrose University, Davenport, this past December. Salazar graduated from St. Ambrose in December 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary History Education. The Muscatine native was hesitant to pursue the grant. Teaching abroad was not his intended path, the Ambrose release says, noting he was inspired by the sacrifices of his grandfather to seize every opportunity available to him. “As scary as it is to think of leaving all I have ever known, I can see no other way around what I consider my duty and responsibility,” Salazar said. “A duty to use the opportunities allotted to me thanks to a grandfather who had none. “Manual labor left my grandfather with little feeling in his fingertips and required several surgeries,” he recalled. “I thought about the loneliness he must have felt leaving all he had ever known to find a place abundant with opportunity not for himself but for his descendants.” As Salazar pushed himself to pursue this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, St. Ambrose faculty supported him throughout the Fulbright application process. Salazar (center, seen with his parents) will start a teaching assistantship in Spain this September. “The most real moment for me was meeting with St. Ambrose faculty and staff, people I had gotten to know very well along the way, and being interviewed honestly by them,” he said. “Here I stood before faces I trusted, faces I knew would judge me accurately and could determine the direction of my life entirely.” Brittany Tullis, PhD, interim dean for the College of Arts and Sciences, was one of the faculty members who helped Salazar navigate the application process. She is proud of his tremendous accomplishment of becoming a finalist. “It is a testament to Daniel's hard work, drive, and dedication as a lifelong learner and global citizen,” she said. “I know that his time here at St. Ambrose has prepared him particularly well for the mission upon which he will soon embark as a citizen diplomat abroad,” Tullis says. Salazar said that his St. Ambrose education prepared him for the journey he is about to embark on. But he says it’s not just the tangible skills he is taking with him. It’s the values he’s learned about friendship, curiosity, duty, and courage that he hopes to emulate during his time abroad, the release says. Since graduating, Salazar has been working as a long-term substitute teacher in his hometown. He is also the state director for the League of United Latin American Citizens in Iowa. He will leave these positions to pursue his Fulbright English teaching assistantship beginning this September. Laura Meloy, a 2022 St. Ambrose grad, also was a Fulbright winner. This is the second Fulbright English teacher assistantship awarded to an SAU student in as many years. Laura Meloy ’22 of Bettendorf, who earned a bachelor’s in political science and international studies, spent this past year completing her English teaching assistantship in Bulgaria.
	Living Lands & Waters, John Deere Classic's 'Birdies for Trees' means more trees for the QCs Living Lands & Waters (LL&W) is working with the John Deere Classic to make the Quad Cities even greener by planting nearly 2,000 new trees. LL&W, along with the John Deere Classic and the City of Silvis, are hosting a special tree-planting and handout event at Gauley Field, 513 12th Street in Silvis on Wednesday, May 22, at 12:45 p.m. This event is part of LL&W's ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. The group is working to plant one tree for every birdie scored in last year’s John Deere Classic golf tournament. Last year, golfers at the John Deere Classic recorded an impressive 1,929 birdies, meaning that 1,929 trees would be available for planting by the public in the community. LL&W is kicking off the drive by planting a tree at Gauley Field, symbolizing the "Birdies for Trees" partnership. George O. Barr Elementary students will plant the tree, learning about environmental stewardship and community revitalization at the same time. Trees will be available to residents on a first-come, first-served basis after the initial tree planting at Gauley Field. There’s no limit to the number of trees a person can take, as long as they commit to planting them. Swamp white oaks, red oaks, and pecans will be available until 2 p.m. For more information on Living Lands & Waters and their programs, click here.
	QC Housing Council launches new campaign In recognition of Affordable Housing Month, the Quad Cities Housing Council (QCHC) marks its 25th anniversary this month with the launch of a transformative messaging campaign, “Housing Matters.” Aimed at raising awareness and sparking community action on the critical issues of affordable, accessible, and safe housing, the campaign underscores a quarter-century commitment to enhancing economic and community development through housing solutions in the Quad Cities area, according to a Tuesday release. “Housing is more than just a place to live; it's the foundation of community well-being and economic stability," said QCHC executive director Leslie Kilgannon. “At the end of the day, housing should matter to all of us because we all benefit from what it provides. New and rehabbed homes expand a community’s tax base. An adequate supply of affordable housing can enhance a business’ decision to locate new jobs in the area. And finally, when a household pays less for the roof over their head, they have more monies to spend and invest locally.” This is the foundational idea behind the "Housing Matters" campaign, designed to raise community-wide awareness of significant housing challenges highlighted by recent statistics. Over the past decade, the region has seen a sharp decline in affordable rental units, with a loss of over 6,645 homes for those earning below 30% of the area’s median income, the council said. Additionally, ongoing economic pressures have made affordable housing stocks drop to an all-time low, further exacerbating the situation for low-income families. In response to these challenges, the QCHC has been pivotal in maximizing housing funds and coordinating efforts across a network of local not-for-profits, for-profit housing service providers, lenders, and government bodies now known as the Quad Cities Housing Cluster. The collaborative approach has been crucial in advocating for housing needs and developing strategic solutions to meet the growing demands of the Quad Cities’ communities, including a 10-year plan titled Silos to Solutions that lays out six strategies for improving housing accessibility and affordability. Throughout the six-month "Housing Matters" campaign, messaging will highlight the diverse needs and the intersecting issues related to housing with the goal of fostering a deeper understanding and involvement in housing issues. The QCHC invites community members to participate in educational events, explore opportunities to volunteer and engage, and most importantly voice their support by sharing personal stories and discovering why "Housing Matters” — to me, to you and to all of us. QC area residents are encouraged to follow the campaign on social media using #HousingMattersQC or #QCHC25 and visit the QCHC website HERE to stay updated on events and ways to participate.
	Severe Thunderstorm Watch Until 1 p.m. for most of Iowa Conditions remain favorable for damaging thunderstorms through the coming few hours.
	Breaking down how homeowners can stay safe if their power goes out News 8's Charles Hart talks to Tina Hoffman the vice president of corporate communications and public affairs for MidAmerican Energy.
	News 8 offers tips to Quad Citizens to stay safe during severe weather If adults have to be out and about during severe weather take some time driving home and don't drive through standing water.
	Muscatine County to celebrate Memorial Day 2024 with services and events This year, Muscatine County will see several of its annual Memorial Day events return.
	Muscatine freshman golfer qualifies for state tournament Last week, Muscatine High School freshman Rylee Brockhouse qualified for the Girls’ State Golf Tournament.
	Meet the two Democrats running for Scott County Sheriff in the June 4 primary Scott County Lt. Thomas Gibbs and Davenport Cpl. Gordon Morse are running for the Democratic nomination for Scott County Sheriff in the June primary.
	More details released after East Moline police shot man on Friday Friday's encounter was not the first last week between police and the man who was shot.
	Rock Island National Cemetery holds Memorial Day ceremony The public is invited to a Memorial Day ceremony at Rock Island National Cemetery. The ceremony is Monday, May 27 at 10:45 a.m. Main parking will be at the Memorial Park parking lot, located off Rodman Ave. at the corner of East St. Buses will be transporting people from the parking lot to the cemetery, running from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Visitors are advised to arrive early to ensure enough time to park and be transported to the cemetery. According to a release, the keynote speaker will be Benjamin Enlow, Scott County Veteran Services officer U.S. Army veteran with two tours in Iraq. The Veterans Service Organization honor guard will be conducted by East Moline American Legion Post 227. The Center for Active Seniors Inc.'s Golden Tones Choir will perform musical selections throughout the ceremony. The National Anthem will be performed by Rachel Hoffman, with an invocation by Rev. Scott Culley from Faith Walk World Outreach Center. The 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment, Milan, will conduct the national salute. Other speeches, a moment of silence, the playing of taps and a rifle volley, will also be featured. For more information, click here.
	Rock Island Rotary donates over 500 pounds of food to local nonprofits The Rotary Club of Rock Island collected and distributed more than 500 pounds of food to area nonprofits.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 21, 2024 Juleen Ann Barrows, 90, of Camanche, Iowa, passed away Monday, May 20, 2024, at the Alverno, Clinton. Snell-Zornig is assisting the family with arrangements.
	Cook review: 'Sight' is inspiring true story “Sight” is the latest in a series of inspirational true stories from Angel Studios. The films, which include “Cabrini” from earlier in the year, are about people of faith. Well-written and beautifully acted, these movies deservedly are striking a chord among faith-based audiences. “Sight” is the story of Dr. Ming Wang (Terry Chen, “Cabin in the Woods”,) a Chinese-born surgeon whose treatment has restored the sight of millions of people around the world. Wang, known for restoring sight to patients who come to him from all over the globe, now has a new patient. A girl from Calcutta – accompanied by a nun played by Fionnula Flanagan - who was blinded in the hope that her loss of vision would enhance her ability to beg, has arrived to seek the doctor's expertise. Wang obsesses over the child’s plight and works day and night with the help of his colleague Dr. Mischa Bartnovsky (Greg Kinnear) to find a way to help her. The doctor has flashbacks of trauma from his own life. He grew up the son of a doctor during China’s Cultural Revolution. In a terrifying scene, we see soldiers enter a school where the younger Wang is a student. This sequence is bone-chilling. The students are helpless as one soldier in particular mocks and threatens the teacher. The more his past troubles him, the less confidence Wang has. And the more he recalls a girl who was a childhood friend and whose grandfather was blind. As he remembers, the audience learns about how he came to the United States and became a respected surgeon. This is a capable ensemble in a compelling story. At the end of the film, we meet the real doctor, who gives a brief testimony in a film that will inspire you regardless of your walk of faith. 3 ½ stars Running time: One hour and 40 minutes. Rated: Rated PG-13 for violence, coarse language and adult themes. Opens Thursday at Cinemark, Davenport; and Palms 10, Muscatine. Watch the trailer here.
	QCA bi-state pride parade set for June 1 The community is invited to support and participate in the QC Unity Pride Parade. Quad Cities Pride Alliance is hosting the parade June 1, starting at 2nd and Iowa Streets in Davenport, heading down 2nd Ave. to the Centennial Bridge, crossing over to Illinois, down 3rd St. and heading to the entry way of the Quad Cities Pride Festival at Schwiebert Riverfront Park, located at 101 17th St., Rock Island. Enjoy candy, music and creativity at this family-friendly event. The QC Unity Pride Parade is Saturday, June 1 at 11:00 a.m. Parade entry is free. To register or for more information, click here.
Monday, May 20th, 2024
	Signing day held at Moline High School for ‘Grow Your Own Teacher’ program A special signing day was held at Moline High School to celebrate some blossoming teachers.
	Caitlin Clark overcomes injury, but Harris shines late to give Sun 88-84 win over winless Fever Still, it was progress for Indiana.
	FBI Springfield Field Office warns of scam targeting Chinese communities The FBI Springfield Field Office is warning the public about a scam targeting Chinese communities in the U.S. and students attending U.S. universities.
	Future QC teachers attend signing day Some high school seniors in Moline committed to becoming teachers. Moline High School held a signing day for students enrolled in the Grow Your Own Teachers career pathway program. The program is designed to train and nurture students interested in becoming teachers. The goal is to have them come back after college to teach in the Moline Coal Valley School District. The program offers courses with first-hand experience like meeting with teachers and visiting classrooms. For more information, click here.
	Galesburg City Council approves business development plan with Western Smokehouse Partners The company agreed to stay in Galesburg for 10 years.
	Barn collapses after fire in Rock Falls, crews say Multiple crews were dispatched to battle a barn fire Monday afternoon.
	Diocese of Peoria to restructure from 156 parishes to 75 The Diocese cited declining Mass attendance and a dwindling number of active priests as reasons for the changes.
	Rock Island swears in new police chief Timothy McCloud started with the department in 1994.
	Sepp Straka looking to defend John Deere Classic title People gathered to honor 2023 John Deere Classic defending champion Sepp Straka.
	Rock Island hosts Spring Market Fest to showcase city’s vibrancy The Rock Island Parks and Recreation Department brought new life to the riverfront last weekend with the Revive Rock Island: Spring Market Fest.
	Illinois bill could ban wildlife-killing contests A bill, HB2900, making its way through the Illinois State Legislature would ban wildlife-killing contests in the state. The bill amends the Wildlife Code and prohibits contests or competitions with the objective of killing any fur-bearing mammal. At question are competitions over a specific period of time. People can win prizes for killing the most animals, like money or hunting equipment. The contests focus on animals like coyotes, foxes, raccoons and squirrels. For more information, click here.
	Meta named as company eyeing Davenport for data center, state board OKs incentives Meta is the company considering Davenport for an $800 million data center, according to documents from a state board.
	Major changes ahead for Catholic Diocese of Peoria Major changes are coming to the Catholic Diocese of Peoria. Some parishes will be merging, and some buildings will be closing. Recommendations for planning are being made for the Rock Island, Kewanee and Galesburg areas. Rock Island planning area (Catholic Diocese of Peoria)Kewanee planning area (Catholic Diocese of Peoria)Galesburg planning area (Catholic Diocese of Peoria) According to the Catholic Diocese of Peoria, recommendations are as follows: Rock Island St. Pius X – Rock Island St. Mary of the IC – Rock Island Sacred Heart – Rock Island● Merger of the parishes of St. Mary and Sacred Heart● Common pastor with ministry by Franciscans● Recommend pastor discern one building to use for the St. Mary/Sacred Heart merged parish within three years St. Ambrose – Milan St. Patrick – Andalusia● Merger of parishes● One priest assigned St. Mary – Moline● Two priests assigned (one Spanish-speaking) Sacred Heart – Moline● One priest assigned Christ the King – Moline● Two priests assigned (one French-speaking) Mary Our Lady of Peace – Orion St. Maria Goretti – Coal Valley● Merger of parishes● One priest assigned● Recommend pastor discern if two buildings are viable for the parish within three years. Our Lady of Guadalupe – Silvis St. Patrick – Colona● Merger of parishes● One priest assigned St. Anne – East Moline St. John the Baptist – Rapids City St. Mary – Hampton● Merger of parishes● One priest assigned Kewanee St. Malachy – Geneseo● One priest assigned St. Anthony – Atkinson St. Mary of the Fields Shrine – Hooppole St. Patrick – Sheffield Sacred Heart – Annawan● Merger of parishes● One priest assigned● Recommend the pastor discern the future of shrine and ability to be self-sustaining, providinga recommendation within the next two years. St. John the Evangelist – Galva St. John the Apostle – Woodhull St. John Vianney – Cambridge● Merger of parishes● One priest assigned● Recommend the pastor discern which buildings are needed for the new parish within the next two years. St. John Paul II – Kewanee● Two priests assigned (one Spanish-speaking) Galesburg St. Mary MagdaleneAledo site and Matherville site● One priest assigned Immaculate Conception – Monmouth St. Theresa – Alexis site St. Patrick – Raritan● Merger of parishes● Two priests assigned Immaculate Heart of Mary – Galesburg Corpus Christi – Galesburg St. Augustine – St. Augustine St. Aloysius – Wataga St. Patrick – Galesburg Sacred Heart – Abingdon● Merger of parishes● Three priests assigned The restructuring is set to begin July 1 and could continue through 2027. For more information, click here.
	Tim McCloud sworn in as Rock Island Chief of Police Tim McCloud was sworn in as the new Rock Island Chief of Police.
	Tim McCloud approved as Rock Island Chief of Police The Rock island City Council approved Tim McCloud to be the city's new police chief. McCloud had been the interim chief since Rock Island Police Department when chief Richard Landi retired. McCloud took the oath of office at the Rock island City Council meeting May 20. McCloud started his law enforcement career with the Rock Island Police Department 30 years ago. He served as detective from 2002-2006, sergeant from 2006-2009 and lieutenant from 2009-2021, when he was appointed as deputy chief of police. McCloud has also served as commander of the Juvenile Investigations Unit and commander of the Honor Guard.
	Actress Sigourney Weaver gives Monmouth College's commencement speech alongside husband Jim Simpson In addition to delivering the commencement address, Weaver and Simpson both received honorary Doctors of Letters for their work in the arts and philanthropy.
	Severe storms forecasted to move through Quad Cities region Tuesday Severe storms are forecasted to move through the greater Quad Cities region today and tomorrow, with the strongest line set to move through from 3-9 p.m. Tuesday.
	Imaginary, All the People Sharing All the World: “IF,” “The Strangers: Chapter 1,” “Back to Black,” and “I Saw the TV Glow” Written, produced, and directed by co-star John Krasinski, the comedy fantasy IF concerns a bunch of imaginary friends (hence the acronym) eager to feel needed again, and when I first scanned the list of those voicing these beings, I practically needed an overnight bag and a canteen to get through it.
	QC officers hit the streets for Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Police officers in the area hit the streets, but they weren't chasing any criminals. They came out for the Law Enforcement Torch Run. The event leads up to the Special Olympics Iowa Summer Games. The run started outside of the Bettendorf Police Department. Officers carried the flame of hope for more than six miles and ended at Rookies Sports Bar in Davenport. The event is a fundraiser for Special Olympics. The Iowa Torch Run started in 1987. For more information, click here.
	EXPLAINER: Why Gov. Reynolds vetoed an open meetings bill Governor Kim Reynolds vetoed a bill aiming to increase transparency at public meetings.
	Calls on Muscatine School District to cancel CCP funded trips spark debate An Iowa lawmaker has raised concerns about recent Chinese Communist Party-funded trips for Muscatine High School students and staff.
	Bettendorf Police Department holds torch run for Special Olympics Officers raised awareness and their heart rates in a run for Special Olympics.
	Rock Island City Council approves Sunset Marina repairs The investment will include dredging, dock replacement and electrical upgrades.
	Bishop Hill music fest coming June 1 The Bishop Hill Folk Music Festival will be Saturday June 1, 2024, in the village park in Bishop Hill. Performing will be some of the best-known musicians in Illinois, with styles spanning a wide range of folk music including hammered dulcimer, bluegrass, Celtic, and Woody Guthrie songs to name a few. In addition, Mike Anderson, the “Dulcimer Guy,” will have a program about the beauty of the Mountain Dulcimer in the Steeple Building Museum at noon. Mike Anderson All the park concerts and the dulcimer presentation are free and open to the public. Music starts at 10 a.m. and continues throughout the day. Local favorite Hammer and Pick will start off the day with their old-time music. At 11 a.m., the bluegrass band Coffee Creek will be performing. Hammer and Pick At 1 p.m., Chicago singer-songwriter Bucky Halker will be playing music from his 15 CDs. The Bucktown Americana Music Show (bluegrass, folk, Celtic, Americana, and old-time music) will step on stage at 2 p.m. Bucky Halker Peoria’s singer-songwriter Barry Cloyd will finish off the day performing songs from his 10 CDs. This free event is funded in part by the Illinois Arts Council, the Galesburg Community Foundation and the Geneseo Foundation. The concert schedule for Saturday, June 1 (main stage is located next to the park gazebo in the center of the village park) is: Bucktown Americana Music Show 10 a.m. -- Hammer & Pick 11 a.m. -- Coffee Creek 1 p.m. -- Bucky Halker 2 p.m. -- Bucktown Americana Music Show 3 p.m. -- Barry Cloyd For more details, you can call 309-927-3899 or email bhha@mymctc.net. Information about this festival is also posted HERE or the Bishop Hill Heritage Association Facebook page HERE.
	Parts of U.S. Highway 61 interchange to close for construction There's an Our Quad Cities News traffic alert for Clinton County. Work begins May 21 on a U.S. Highway 61 interchange. Crews will close the northbound entrance to U.S. Highway 30 West near DeWitt. The entrance ramp from U.S. Highway 30 East to U.S. Highway 61 North will also be closed. The construction project is expected to last until the end of July.
	Diocese of Peoria to restructure from 156 parishes to 75: Impact on the Quad Cities area The Diocese of Peoria has announced massive restructuring plans that will reduce its number of parishes.
	Western Illinois University students get an up-close look at the beef production industry 11 students were able to take tours of beef facilities across the Dakotas and Iowa.
	Bettendorf Police honor Special Olympic athletes with Torch Run 25 officers carried the flame of hope for six miles.
	A W-Q-A-D spelling bee showdown! Pleasant Valley 7th grader Parthasaradhi Katreddy is headed to the Scripps National Spelling Bee and stopped by News 8 studios to practice with some familiar faces.
	How MidAmerican Energy is gearing up for severe weather The very real possibility of severe weather brings a threat of widespread power outages to the QCA, and managers with MidAmerican Energy are monitoring the conditions to be ready to respond. Geoff Greenwood with MidAmerican Energy spoke with Our Quad Cities News about the company's approach. For more information, click here.
	Significant severe weather outbreak possible Tuesday There could be a few scattered showers/storms Monday night and Tuesday morning. But the real show is possible Tuesday afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center has outlined our area in a "moderate" risk for severe weather Tuesday afternoon and evening. The potential is there for damaging tornadoes and strong straight-line winds Tuesday afternoon and evening. We're looking at a couple windows with severe weather potential. First, severe storms are possible between noon and 3 p.m. Then, strong winds are possible with another batch of strong to severe storms between 6 and 11 p.m. If you'd like a responsible forecast update for your neighborhood, feel free to send me an email (amccray@whbf.com) or look me up on Facebook (Andy McCray Local 4 News)
	Severe weather expected in the Quad-Cities Tuesday evening Strong winds, hail and tornadoes risks are on the way.
	Illinois bill could change how your biometric data is protected A bill in Illinois could change how your medical information is protected. The bill would require companies to get prior consent from someone before collecting fingerprints or face scans. The current law fines businesses if they don't get someone's consent before collecting their biometric data for each violation. The legislation on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk would only fine a business once per person. It would also let businesses get consent through an electronic signature. The move comes after the Illinois Supreme Court ruled violations of the law are accrued for each time someone's data is collected. It will be up to lawmakers to change how those are counted, not the court.
	Company owned by Meta might build $8M data center in Davenport Vemerald LLC's proposed project will span around 328 acres in northern Davenport. The center would be used for storing and transferring user and customer data.
	Tim McCloud chosen as next Rock Island police chief The city of Rock Island has chosen its new chief of police.
	Mercado on Fifth returns! It's quickly become a Quad-City tradition, hosting vibrant outdoor markets and celebrating Latin culture, and Mercado on Fifth is ready to return! Frances Williams, Maria Urbina, Laura Mata-Bolandi and Adolfo Reyes joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the excitement of Mercado on Fifth. For more information, click here.
	University of Dubuque's new president starts next month Starting next month, the University of Dubuque will have a new president for the first time in 25 years.
	Western Illinois University students get an up-close look at the beef industry in new course 11 students were able to take tours of beef facilities across the Dakotas and Iowa.
	Students voice FAFSA concerns WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Students met with Virginia Democratic Senator Mark Warner Monday to tell him how the troubled FAFSA application upgrade impacted them. The delayed rollout of the financial aid service led to delays in college decisions for students. Karla Jean Valle is one of many students who were plagued by the FAFSA application process changes. "The whole process itself was hard figuring out,” Valle said. The rollout ran into glitches and processing delays, and some schools did not push back their decision deadlines. This left students, like Valle, stressed. "You have to figure out the deadlines for a lot of these scholarships, FAFSA, the college applications, when you're getting back from, when you're hearing back from colleges,” Valle said. Victoria Zambrano-Argueta ran into a major bug while submitting her application. "I got an indicator saying that there was an error in my FAFSA. That it was missing my student signature. However, there was never that opportunity to fill out that student signature. And I wasn't the only one,” said Zambrano-Argueta. Both students spoke with Senator Warner to express their concerns about improving FAFSA. College counselor Will Esswein says students with challenging backgrounds are especially feeling the hit. "To see them struggling so hard and the same students coming back day in and day out has been really frustrating,” said Esswein. The Education Department estimates around 30% of the class of 2024 have completed their FAFSA applications, a significant drop from last year. "Why does the federal government have such an inability to deliver a new technology platform in an efficient manner?" Warner asked. Warner is disappointed the Education Department did not have a testing process before rolling out the new system. "I feel for these first-generation students, who without this financial aid, they're just not going to be able to school,” Warner said. He says there is no silver bullet to fix what happened this year, but he will press for improvements for next year.
	Deere announces 190 new layoffs in Waterloo after idling 308 workers in April A John Deere spokesperson said 190 production employees will be laid off. Employees reportedly learned of the layoffs in meetings with factory leaders Monday morning.
	REVIEW: Mockingbird resurrected in powerful Moline play There’s so much tragedy swirling around the classic story “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and the real-life Mockingbird on Main, which lost its home theater in the collapse of the Davenport Hotel building (324 Main St.), nearly one year ago. But a silver lining among all the stormy clouds is the indestructible troupe’s dedicated, electrifying and inspiring new production of the Southern tale of racism, injustice and compassion that premiered last weekend at Moline’s Black Box Theatre. Doug Kutzli, left, and Jim Driscoll in "To Kill a Mockingbird." “To Kill a Mockingbird,” based on Harper Lee's 1960 classic novel, is set in 1935 Alabama, in a sleepy rural town, but its heart-rending lessons are as relevant as ever, as noted in the program by lead James Driscoll – “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Storm Marie Baca, left, and Yvonne Siddique. Directed and designed with true sensitivity, life and soul by husband-and-wife team and Mockingbird founders Tristan Tapscott and Savannah Bay Strandin, the excellent cast includes Driscoll as the wise, world-weary hero Atticus Finch, Sophia Kilburg (Scout), Doug Kutzli (Heck Tate), Cynthia Johnson Lomas (Calpurnia), Renaud Haymon (Rev. Sykes), Yvonne Siddique (Miss Maudie), Storm Marie Baca (Miss Stephanie), Jullian Tottan (Bob Ewell), Brenna France (Mayella Ewell), Tatum Kilburg (Jem), Will Emerle (Dill), Jayden Smith (Clerk/Townsperson), Wendy Czekalski (Mrs. Dubose), Tyler Henning (Mr. Cunningham/Judge Taylor) and Bradley Heinrichs (Mr. Gilmer/Boo Radley). The beautiful production design features the work of Circa ‘21 costume designer Bradley Robert Jensen and Circa lighting designer Emmett Boedeker, with the ramshackle home set designed by Tapscott and Strandin, including lots of lush greenery. I liked the Easter egg touch of the door home number 320, which was the Mockingbird’s address on Main Street (its first production opened July 29, 2021). The set for "To Kill a Mockingbird" at Black Box Theatre, 1623 5th Ave., Moline. Keenen Wilson plays the pivotal role of Tom Robinson (who’s accused of raping a white woman, and is defended at trial by Finch), the fifth man to be cast in the Mockingbird role, after others quit for a variety of reasons. Wilson starred as Lola in the spring Music Guild production of “Kinky Boots,” which closed April 14. After other actors dropped out of “Mockingbird” rehearsals, Tapscott asked Wilson to play Tom on May 8, his first rehearsal was May 12, and the first performance was May 16. Bradley Heinrichs, left, plays prosecutor Mr. Gilmer (as well as Boo Radley), and Keenen Wilson plays Tom. Unlike the flashy, flamboyant drag queen role, Wilson is quiet, reserved, noble, and dignified as Tom, a selfless, married man of three. He communicates much without saying a word and he seems resigned to a cruel fate he could not control as a Black man in the rural South of the ‘30s. In Wilson’s assured, gentle performance (in which you never doubt that Tom is innocent of any crime), it looks like he’s been playing this part the whole time. In his white suit, Driscoll is the literal embodiment of good and his silvery hair, and deep, authoritative voice all help lock in the essential role model and father that is Atticus. He’s not only the parent of Jem and Scout, but he takes on that protective role (revealing profound pearls of advice) with Dill and just about everyone else he encounters. (I’m not sure why Scout calls him by his first name, and not “Dad.”) Tatum Kilburg (left) is Jem, Will Emerle is Dill and Sophia Kilburg is Scout. One of the most timeless truths Atticus tells is that you can never understand another person unless you consider life from their point of view, to walk a mile in their shoes. That seems to me the cause of so much racism and bigotry – that is, fear and ignorance. Even today, too many people cruelly lambaste others they don’t know or understand, people of different races, creeds or national origins. Racists in “Mockingbird” didn’t think of Tom as a person, a husband and father, with his own needs and emotions. In the trial, Jim Driscoll as Atticus questions Brenna France as Mayella. In the story, 19-year-old Mayella (played by Brenna France, a Pleasant Valley High student) actually hugged and kissed Tom, but her father Bob lashed out at what he didn’t understand, and beat her, cooking up the rape accusation to punish Tom. France gives a heated, emotional performance in Mayella’s conflicted, cathartic testimony, as she’s upset, defensive and thinks Atticus is mocking her. Julian Totton is brutal and threatening as Bob, who gets his own form of justice (off-stage) at the play’s end. The "Mockingbird" trial features Julian Totton as Bob Ewell (seated, foreground), Mayella's father. As the three playful kids, Sophia and Tatum Kilburg, and Will Emerle (another PV student) show infectious spark and enthusiasm (at one point, Scout and Dill literally jump for joy). I was especially taken with Sophia as the spunky, feisty tomboy Scout, and she’s kind of an audience surrogate for Atticus’s homilies. During the second-act trial closing argument, the 60-seat Black Box audience is the jury that Driscoll addresses. Despite his coherent, persuasive and passionate points, the story’s jury still finds Tom guilty. The uniformly top-notch cast, and striking lighting effects, all combine to raise this iconic story and make the 64-year-old Harper Lee book seem as fresh, important and necessary as ever. Little did Lee ever think her story about the songbird within the book – “It’s a sin to kill a mockingbird” – would have such deep resonance here. The Mockingbird dedicates this performance to the memories of those lost in the collapse -- Branden Colvin Sr., Ryan Hitchcock and Daniel Prien. The play features Doug Kutzli, left, as Sheriff Heck Tate, Cynthia Johnson Lomas as maid Calpurnia (to be played by K.C. Ross on May 23), and Jim Driscoll as lawyer Atticus Finch. Performances at Black Box (1623 5th Ave., Moline) will continue at 8 p.m. May 23, 24 and 25, and 2 p.m. May 26. All tickets are $16, available HERE. For more information about Mockingbird on Main, click HERE.
	Galesburg 2024 hydrant testing The City of Galesburg Water Division in conjunction with the Galesburg Fire Department (GFD) began the annual fire hydrant flushing and testing program.
	Looking ahead to possible active weather After areas hit highs in the 80s and at the 90-degree mark Saturday, some other changes are coming for the area weather in the next week.
	Structure collapse at Hennig construction site in Machesney Park Several emergency crews are being called to a building collapse in the 9900 block of North Alpine Road in Machesney Park.
	Company owned by Meta might build $8M data center in Davenport Vemerald LLC's proposed project will span around 328 acres in northern Davenport. The center would be used for storing and transferring user and customer data.
	Pet Supplies Plus to make ‘paw print’ in Bettendorf Pet Supplies Plus will be “making a paw print” in Bettendorf with the opening of a new, locally-owned pet store this summer.
	Diocese of Peoria to restructure from 156 parishes to 75 The Diocese of Peoria has announced massive restructuring plans that will reduce its number of parishes. Here's how local parishes will be impacted.
	St. Ambrose and Mount Mercy discuss "strategic combination" Beginning this fall, students from St. Ambrose University can take online or hybrid classes at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids.
	Caitlin Clark adjusting to playing in the WNBA, finishes first week on a high note Caitlin Clark is adjusting to life as a professional women’s basketball player.
	Candlelight vigil set for anniversary of building collapse Tuesday, May 28, 2024 marks the one-year anniversary of the seismic building collapse at 324 Main St., Davenport, which killed three people, displaced many and resulted in a flood of lawsuits regarding building owner Andrew Wold and the city. A candlelight vigil recognizing the anniversary will be held May 28 at 7 p.m. on the sidewalk outside the now-vacant property (covered by grass), and everyone attending is asked to wear purple, event organizer Jess Noles of Davenport said Monday, May 20. Purple represents unity, understanding and compassion, putting others before yourself, she said. The vigil (called "Justice for 324 Main Street") is also being organized by Davenport Against Corruption, Quad City Movement and Whistle Davenport. Noles grew up in downtown Davenport until 2015, when she moved to the northwest side of town. “Justice can come in many forms and in my opinion that can be accountability to all at fault for this tragedy,” she said of the participants’ goals. “The bittersweet of all this is the community coming together as one,” Noles said. “I have developed friendships with people I would of otherwise may have never met.” The vigil is meant to remember the souls of the men lost because of the collapse (Ryan Hitchcock, Branden Colvin, Sr. and Daniel Prien), and all those affected by this tragedy, according to the event flyer. The Davenport apartment building, located at 324 Main St., Davenport, sustained a partial building collapse May 28, 2023. (OurQuadCities.com) The defendants in a major collapse-related suit filed May 2 in Scott County Court are Andrew Wold, Andrew Wold Investments LLC, Select Structural Engineering LLC, Bi-State Masonry, the City of Davenport, Waukee Investments I, LLC, and Parkwild Properties LC, according to court documents. “In the days, weeks, months and even years leading up to this tragic and devastating structural collapse, alarms had been sounded concerning a specific area on the lower portion of the exterior west wall of The Davenport,” the suit says. Crews dismantle partially collapsed apartment building in downtown Davenport (photo by Mike Colón) “…the Wold defendants either performed such a substandard inspection and/or due diligence at the time of purchase then (sic) the need for immediate corrective action was not understood or a proper inspection was performed and the dangerous condition of the west exterior wall was realized but the Wold defendants disregarded the danger and did nothing,” the insurance company alleges in the suit. Andrew Wold (Scott County Jail) Wold also faces a jury trial Sept. 9, 2024, for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bettendorf Police arrested Wold on Nov. 22, 2023, on a charge of OWI (operating a vehicle while intoxicated). Police say he failed field sobriety tests, smelled of alcohol and refused to take a breath test.
	Pet of the Week - Panda \| May 20, 2024 News 8 and the Quad City Animal Welfare Center partner each week to help pets find their forever homes.
	Muscatine detective honored with Life Saving Awar A Muscatine police detective was presented the Muscatine Police Department Life Saving Award on May 16 at a Muscatine City Council meeting.
	Sterling woman wins Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. award A Sterling AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Volunteer was awarded the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. award through the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies on May 7.
	Few storms this afternoon and tonight; Severe weather likely Tuesday Quieter weather expected by midweek.
	Scott County emergency agency wins state award Iowa’s Emergency Management Association has awarded the Scott County Emergency Management Commission the Emergency Management Program of the Year for 2023. “Over the last several years, our commissioners’ dedication, collaboration, and direction have increased public communication options, readiness tools for the general public, engagement with private and public partnerships, and enhanced the overall readiness for Scott County,” Brian Payne, the Scott County EMA director, said in a Monday press release. “This award is a great honor, and we are thrilled that Iowa’s Emergency Management Association recognized our commission’s dedication, collaboration, and direction,” he said. The Emergency Management Commissions in Iowa are comprised of every city Mayor (or an appointed Council Member), one Board of Supervisor, and the Sheriff. The Program of the Year award recognizes the accomplishments of an Emergency Management Commission in Iowa that has made the greatest advancements in protecting their communities from disasters during the previous calendar year. It recognizes how the collaborative effort of a commission can develop an integrated culture of preparedness involving individuals, businesses, and government. Through the efforts of this commission, the cost of emergency management has been minimized and risk reduction has been maximized. Their actions stand as an exemplary example for other Commissions to follow.” For more information, click HERE.
	Quad City Bank & Trust CEO John Anderson to retire Anderson was with the bank for 26 years, serving as CEO for 17 of those.
	Rock Island Rotary gives 500 lbs. food to nonprofits The Rotary Club of Rock Island has collected and distributed more than 500 pounds of food to selected area non-profits as part of a five-month initiative. A Rotary food donation at World Relief Quad Cities. The Rotary’s district-wide service project aims to help alleviate hunger in the surrounding communities. The selected non-profits that have received food are: Christian Care – provides safe shelter, support, and resources for the homeless population. Heart of Hope Ministries – manages a weekly food pantry on Thursdays. Project NOW Head Start – a school readiness and family support program at no-cost to low-income families. Donated food at Christian Care in Rock Island. SAL Community Services – The welcoming center includes a food pantry for the culturally-specific needs of area immigrants, refugees, and English-language learners. World Relief – provides newly arrived refugees and other immigrants with access to basic necessities. Comprised of nearly 100 members and growing, the Rotary Club of Rock Island meets at the QC Botanical Center every Tuesday at 12 p.m. It’s focused on international service, community involvement, and youth projects. For more information, visit rirotary.com.
	Celebrate tourism's impact during National Travel and Tourism Week Tourism is a major industry in the Quad Cities region and National Travel and Tourism Week is a great time to understand its impact on the local economy. National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual celebration marking the U.S. travel community's contributions to economic growth and community vitality. This year it runs May 19-25 and this year’s theme is “Travel. Powering the Economy. Connecting America.” In the Quad Cities area, the travel industry is a vital partner in driving economic growth, supporting job opportunities and boosting community well-being. Visit Quad Cities, the region’s official destination management and marketing organization (DMMO), works hard to generate non-resident revenues that positively impact households, businesses and the public sector. Tourism has a major impact on the Quad Cities, with over 9,000 local jobs supported by the $1.3 billion regional visitor economy. Visit Quad Cities’ efforts have led to tourism saving each household in the Quad Cities nearly $1,300 in taxes annually. “We’re proud to join our colleagues around the country in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week 2024,” said Dave Herrell, President and CEO of Visit Quad Cities. “Travel is not just about visiting new places – it's about fueling economies and powering brand identity, investment, talent, community programming, and resident pride. The travel industry's impact extends beyond tourism dollars by contributing to essential sectors like manufacturing, healthcare and agriculture. In 2023, travel spending made a $2.8 trillion impact on the U.S. economy and supported over 15 million jobs nationwide. It also generated $89 billion in state and local tax revenue, providing financial support for education, emergency response, public safety and more. Click here for more information on Visit Quad Cities and tourism in the area.
	Severe storms ahead for Iowa Monday night and Tuesday Monday night and Tuesday bring the greatest threats.
	QC Bank & Trust CEO to retire in January After 17 years as CEO of Quad City Bank & Trust (QCBT) and a 40-year banking career, John Anderson will retire effective Jan. 3, 2025. At that time, Laura “Divot” Ekizian will take over as president and CEO of the Bettendorf-based bank – with $2.6 billion in assets, 115 employees and five Quad Cities locations. John Anderson and Laura “Divot” Ekizian When John Anderson first took the helm in 2007, QCBT had a total asset size of $600 million, which has grown to $2.6 billion today. QCBT has also greatly expanded its market share from number 10 in 2007, to its top spot today with over 20% market share, according to a Monday company release. QCBT’s Trust Department has also experienced significant expansion with $5 billion in assets under management and $5 billion in safekeeping assets. “Watching the banking industry transition and change has been amazing, but the one thing that has not changed is how we work with clients and support their financial needs,” Anderson said in the release. “I believe a banker is a dream-maker for their clients and I have had a front row seat to watching that happen.” He has been extremely active in the Quad Cities community throughout his entire career. Serving the community has been a core belief for Anderson, volunteering for such boards as St. Ambrose University, Genesis Foundation, Vera French, Community Foundation and the Diocese of Davenport Foundation, among others. Anderson has been bank CEO since 2007, and will retire effective Jan. 3, 2025. “It has been an amazing journey from my first job as a cash vault teller at Davenport Bank to serving as CEO of QCBT for the past 17 years,” Anderson said. “I have been able to witness the impact that a community bank has on the community, and it has been a gift. Watching the Quad Cities grow and prosper has been a personal blessing for me.” He will continue to work with QCBT to ensure a smooth transition. Laura Ekizian has served as president and chief relationship officer for QCBT for the past four years of her 24-year tenure at QCBT. “While I am excited and honored to serve QCBT in the role of president and CEO, I am also mindful of the legacy John A has imparted on this company,” Ekizian said in the Monday release. “His commitment to the Quad-City community and to our work as a community banking organization is what we will continue to focus on. I am looking forward to working with our entire team at QCBT to continue our 30-year history of serving this community and being worthy of our name.” “John has redefined community banking in his stellar career and has done an incredible job cultivating and building upon the customer centric culture created by our founders, Mike Bauer and Doug Hultquist,” said Mark Kilmer, chair of the QCBT board. “John has blended his genuine passion for the community with his strong leadership skills, admiration for our employees, and relentless focus on building a best-in-class financial organization where personal relationships are paramount.” Laura “Divot” Ekizian (who's been with QCBT for 24 years) speaking at Rhythm City Casino, Davenport (photo by Jonathan Turner). “The board is very excited to welcome Divot as only the third CEO in QCBT’s impressive history,” Kilmer added. “Her vast community involvement combined with her leadership and overall banking expertise make her an ideal individual to lead QCBT to continued growth and success.” Anderson has developed close working relationships with not only QCBT board members and community leaders, but also with fellow bankers and colleagues. “Working among the best bankers in the region has been a gift. Even in some of the most challenging of times, the one constant has been the dedication of our team to see it through. That is my most cherished honor,” he said. For more information on the bank, click HERE.
	Here's what bills Gov. Kim Reynolds signed into law Friday Reynolds signed 20 bills into law Friday.
	Monmouth grads thrilled to hear Sigourney Weaver On a sunny Sunday at Monmouth College’s Wallace Hall Plaza, its annual commencement featured traditional pageantry of bagpipes, trumpets and choir singers that have characterized the event for decades, as well as unique A-list speakers, actress Sigourney Weaver and her writer/director husband, Jim Simpson. “Oh my gosh, it was so great to have them here, because the arts and humanities don't always get the love they deserve,” Jan Abel of Galesburg, who graduated summa cum laude with degrees in English and public relations, said in a college release. Actress Sigourney Weaver and her husband Jim Simpson deliver remarks to the 2024 graduating class of Monmouth College, May 19, 2024. By virtue of her last name, Abel was the first of 165 Monmouth students to be handed her diploma by Clarence Wyatt in his 10th and final commencement as the college's 14th president. "To have big creatives like them here was so awesome," said Abel. Although a day of celebration, the word "failure" came up in both of the main commencement addresses, including the one given by another summa cum laude graduate, Lillian Hucke of Aledo. "We have learned to adapt from online learning to our cafeteria catching on fire," said Hucke, the college's Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. "Even when times are hard, it is crucial to remember your inner power to overcome adversity. Also, remember that it is okay to fail. ... Without failure, we would never know the extent of our inner strength and resilience." The award-winning Weaver, 74, who has starred in such films as “Alien,” “Ghostbusters,” “Gorillas in the Mist” and “Avatar,” also focused on failure by paraphrasing advice from legendary playwright and director George Wolfe. While delivering a speech to graduates of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, Weaver recalled that Wolfe gripped the podium and told the assembled students: "'I want to talk to you about the most creative tool you have -- failure.' He said that life is like an enormous casino, with everybody at a slot machine, throwing in coins. You look around and hear bells going off and you see other people winning jackpots. It makes you want to get up from yours and try theirs. Actors Mel Gibson and Sigourney Weaver on the set of "The Year of Living Dangerously," based on the novel by C.J. Koch, and directed by Peter Weir. (Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images) "But Wolfe's advice was, 'Stick with your machine.' It may take a little while longer to develop and you're going to have to make some adjustments. But this machine that each of you built at Monmouth ... stick with that and believe in yourself, because if you do that, you will never go wrong." "It was super awesome to see them here - to have people of that level give the address," said graduate Cade Sharp of Aledo, Hucke's boyfriend. Sharp and Hucke are two of several members from the Class of 2024 who graduated as a couple. "Something they said that stuck with me is something that Lillian talked about, too -- that failure can be a big part of life." One of the takeaways of the main commencement address for another summa cum laude graduate, Madison Walker of Vernon Hills, Ill., was what Simpson said regarding trying to impress "gatekeepers" versus relying on advice and encouragement from loved ones. Simpson said: "Don't forget the friends you came up with. In my experience, they'll be more influential than the higher-ups. That's the turbocharger for creativity. My friends have had the greatest impact on that for me." "I liked the idea of knowing that the people you work with and are close to you will be a big part of your life," said Walker. "It was super amazing they were here, and I thought their speech was amazing." Who is Jim Simpson? There were light-hearted moments from the main commencement address as well, such as when Simpson addressed the elephant in the plaza. Monmouth College graduate Lillian Hucke of Aledo delivers the student address on Sunday, May 19, during the college's 2024 commencement ceremony, held on the Wallace Hall Plaza. Hucke was the college's Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. "I know many of you are wondering, 'Really, who is this guy standing next to Sigourney Weaver?' I'd like to introduce myself by way of my sister," he said, referring to Gail Simpson Owen, who graduated from Monmouth 50 years ago in the Class of 1974, and who attended the ceremony as a member of the college's Board of Trustees. "Gail is one of the finest people I know, and she's an alum of Monmouth College," he said. "Because of that, I have great respect for the school that helped make Gail the person she is. Monmouth has been an important touchstone for her for her whole life." Sigourney Weaver and Jim Simpson With each point they made from their nearly 40 years of marriage, Weaver and Simpson shared relevant advice for the graduates that went beyond Weaver's quips of "who to call when you're dealing with ghosts and extraterrestrials" and how the stress of co-writing the Commencement address nearly led to their divorce. They were both presented with a doctor of humane letters by the college. "We're so thrilled to be here on this incredibly beautiful campus," Weaver said when she began the address. The day before commencement in Dahl Chapel and Auditorium, the Rev. Charles Burton, a 1992 Monmouth graduate, gave the Baccalaureate sermon, titled "Where Do We Go From Here?" Honors and retirements Other summa cum laude graduates in the Class of 2024 included two students from Iowa, Abigail Furness of Indianola and Elizabeth Schmidt of Waverly. Monmouth College president Clarence Wyatt speaks Sunday, May 19, at the 2024 commencement ceremony. Wyatt, who has been the college's 14th president since 2014, is retiring at the end of this school year. A dozen more are from Illinois: Bethany Allen and Courtney Bizzari, both of Monmouth; Charlie Conkle of Morton Grove; Grace Cornelius of Warrenville; Samantha Hartman of Chadwick; Tyler Houck of Park Ridge; Madyson Goodwin of Normal; Alyssa Mileham of South Elgin; Corey Pevitz of Glenview; Larissa Pothoven of Rock Island; Hannah Rossmiller of East Moline; and Makaylea Sepich of Galesburg. Wyatt announced the promotions of four faculty members: Eric Engstrom in biology, Bob Simmons in classics and David Wright in English, all to full professor, and Mike Solontoi in physics to associate professor. Retiring faculty who were recognized included Trudi Peterson, 26 years in communication studies; Craig Vivian, 24 years in educational studies; Brian Baugh, 19 years in art; and Brad Sturgeon, 17 years in chemistry.
	Muscatine Aquatic Center scheduled to reopen May 25 Muscatine Parks and Recreation staff began filling up the Aquatic Center pool last Monday, stabilizing its pool chemistry prior to a state inspection that occurred later that same week.
	A commitment to safety: GPC receives 2023 Pinnacle award from Union Pacific Last week, it was announced that Grain Processing Corporation (GPC) in Muscatine, part of the KENT Corporation family of companies, had received Union Pacific Railroad’s prestigious 2023 Pinnacle Award.
	Looking back at this year's Wilton Day of Caring On May 10, Wilton saw over 650 students and community members put in nearly a thousand total volunteer hours during this year’s Wilton Day of Caring.
	Olivia Allen: Quad-City students are doing amazing things and getting acknowledged for it This week, education reporter Olivia Allen highlights some of the recent accolades earned by area students.
	Four takeaways from Moline's Parks Department annual report Youth scholarships, remote controlled lawnmowers and more in the Parks and Recreation 2023 annual report.
	Graduates from Monmouth College capture words of wisdom from a pair of Hollywood icons Sigourney Weaver and Jim Simpson earned honorary doctorates from Monmouth for their efforts in the arts and philanthropy.
	Orion School Board hears complaints of book being removed from curriculum Several teachers and others spoke at the Orion School Board meeting last week, saying a book should not have been removed from the curriculum for a dual credit English course.
	Hundreds of Illinois bills make their way to the governor's desk Some of these bills include a $2 million food infrastructure grant. Another two bills would affect children in foster care.
	How an East Moline senior facility is hoping to change the stigma around nursing homes News 8's Joe McCoy shows how Hope Creek Nursing and Rehab Center in East Moline is working to create a welcoming, homey environment for its residents.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, May 20, 2024 William G. Clelland III, 64, of Lost Nation, Iowa, died Friday, May 17, 2024, at Jackson County Regional Health Center, Maquoketa, Iowa. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.
	Bettendorf's Paul Norton Elementary receives Heart Safe School designation Paul Norton Elementary has been designated a Heart Safe School through University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital and Project ADAM: Iowa Heartland.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 20, 2024 Jan W. Christensen, 76, of East Moline, passed away Friday, May 17, 2024, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf. Arrangements are pending at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island.

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

Monday, May 20th, 2024