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

Thursday, June 6th, 2024
	AG Bird: You should know if protection order expired before seeing abuser at store After a nearly year-and-a-half long audit of the state’s crime victim services, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said her office discovered significant gaps in how the state keeps people safe.
	AG Bird: You should known if protection order expired before seeing abuser at store After a nearly year-and-a-half long audit of the state’s crime victim services, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said her office discovered significant gaps in how the state keeps people safe.
	Catch a pop music history classic 'Jersey Boys' at Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse Tickets for the season are $56 for Wednesday matinees and evening shows, and $63 for evening shows on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
	Dems declare ‘Illinois is on the right track’ as Pritzker signs $53.1 billion budget Fending off critics of the largest budget in Illinois history, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the $53.1 billion spending plan will support economic development, relief for the poor and other priorities.
	Crime Stoppers: $15K reward for arrest in murder of Tavian Petersen-Brown Can you help police find who murdered 26-year-old Tavian Petersen-Brown?
	Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Davenport police and in Scott Co. Have you seen him?
	Crime Stoppers: Woman wanted in Rock Island County on multiple charges Have you seen her?
	Rock Island County Health Department handing out free Narcan The Department is working to increase the amount of Narcan kits circulating around the community.
	Sink into sweet summer fun at the Long Grove Strawberry Festival It's time once again to celebrate community, family fun and strawberries with a sweet tradition in the QCA! Scott Hoag stopped by Our Quad Cities News with all the delicious details about the Long Grove Strawberry Festival and Strawberry Stampede. For more information, click here.
	Another new mural coming to downtown R.I. The transformation of downtown Rock Island will also include a new Metro Arts mural to replace an 18-year-old one on the side of the former Goodyear building, at 4th Avenue and 19th Street. Sarah Robb of Davenport, a well-known area muralist, is starting her 18th year as a lead artist for Metro Arts, a paid apprenticeship program for local high school and college students through Quad City Arts. The Rock Island site is one of two murals she'll work on this summer for five weeks. Damage to the left edge of the mural (at Rock Island's 4th Avenue and 19th Street) being repaired Thursday, June 6, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). The old sepia-toned Goodyear mural (facing the downtown Rock Island Public Library) was done in 2006 -- Robb’s first year in Metro Arts -- by Loren Shaw Hellige and her daughter Helayna, depicting several key figures from QC history. The 24,000-square-foot building was constructed in the 1920s for a Nash car dealership; the Goodyear bays were added in 1964, and Goodyear pulled out in 2006, the same year the mural was done, said owner Scott Hughes, who has owned the property for three years. “It’s a cool old building,” he said Thursday. Scott Hughes, who owns the century-old building, seen inside his business June 6, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). Robb is friends with Hughes and his wife. He told the artist, “that wall needs some love.” There was water damage that caused part of the left edge of the wall to come off. They recently removed that part of the wall down to its brick; it was covered with a foam material. Hughes’s company will have it all smoothed out and primed white before Metro Arts starts on its new mural. “He wants a theme of American workers,” Robb said. “Teaching our young people the tradition of these trades, things that are getting lost in our culture a little bit.” The mural will include a large American flag, the medallions of all five armed services, and representatives of American workers in a variety of construction trades. The exterior of the former Goodyear Tires building, which was vacant from 2006 until Hughes bought it in 2021 (photo by Jonathan Turner). The design will be done by students, who will first meet Monday, June 10 at the Figge Art Museum. Both groups will meet each other and work on their designs together, unlike past years, when they met separately, Robb said. It’s one week of design work and then four weeks of painting, starting June 17. “The roof was just let go; the water got behind the brick and inside the brick,” Hughes said of the mural wall damage. “Once that water started to heat up during the summer and freeze during winter, it popped all that off.” They’re going to put a nice flat surface over the wall, so they can prime it. The old surface was an insulated foam system, which was cheap, he said. Sarah Robb and one of her paintings at her Davenport paint shop (photo by Jonathan Turner). The new surface will be much finer and thinner, which will be more resistant to water, Hughes said. “It will be a blank canvas, and away they go,” he said. ‘An old country boy’ “I’m an old country boy, my old man raised me different,” Hughes said of his father in Jo Daviess County, where he also was a general contractor and a Navy veteran. Hughes is a general contractor, whose businesses include Quality Control Restoration and First General Construction (photo by Jonathan Turner). “He taught me how to weld, things like that, at a young age. I just want to make sure kids that are coming along, they can get a very nice, well-paying job that’s very satisfying, actually building something that doesn’t require an app,” he said. “And I like to support the armed services whenever possible.” He hopes the mural will include people buildings things with wood and metal. Hughes has a plaque from the wall that says who each historical person was, and a statement about the artists. That will be preserved in the building. “I’d like to do a little tribute on it,” he said, noting he can do intricate engravings in his woodshop, to be part of that. “Who knows, we can hang that up somewhere so people can see it.” Jack Cullen, executive director of the Rock Island Downtown Alliance, approached Hughes about renovations to the building, including replacing the old mural. The first part of Atlanta Dawn's new mural going up on the west-facing wall at Arts Alley (1700 block of 2nd Avenue, Rock Island), expected to be done on June 18. “As we’re making a major investment in new murals in downtown’s Arts Alley, it’s satisfying to see blighted public art get properly repaired or replaced with additional new works,” Cullen said Thursday. “Scott Hughes and his team at First General Construction are great new downtown neighbors and owners of the former Goodyear Tires building and they’re certainly showcasing that level of stewardship by partnering with the city of Rock Island and Quad City Arts on this Metro Arts project. “They have a lot of exciting improvements and business activities in the works, and I’m excited to see the full vision develop there on 4th Avenue between the new Federal Building and YWCA,” Cullen added. Robb said it fits with the $8.7-million revitalization of the core downtown area. Interior redone Hughes bought the two-story structure three years ago, and has renovated the first-floor interior for his businesses over that time. He’s working on the exterior renovations, which likely won’t be done for nine months. “I just like the old stuff, I like bringing it back,” Hughes said. He’s a general contractor, with four different businesses -- Quality Control Restoration, First General Construction, plus a precision woodshop and a concrete business. Robb has worked as a lead artist for the 24-year-old Metro Arts program since 2006, completing public murals all over the Quad Cities (photo by Jonathan Turner). “I’ve known Sarah personally for a number of years,” he said. “I’ve seen some of her work. I thought, she ought to come down and take a look at that mural, and then Jack’s calling me and said, ‘You gotta do your mural’.” Quality Control Restoration is a Quad Cities-based full-service construction company with offices in Bettendorf and Rock Island, with a combined 111 years of experience in the storm restoration industry. “There's finally some movement down here,” Hughes said of downtown Rock Island under construction. “We have the new federal building, the new Y that just opened. “We’re working in the right direction. It’s good to see that, where something’s actually gonna happen.” The old Goodyear building dates from the 1920s, seen with the downtown library behind it at left (photo by Jonathan Turner). The 10,000-square-foot second floor is not occupied, and that will be renovated for possible residential or business use. That includes new windows, like Hughes added on the first floor. Putnam mural Robb is leading another mural on the concrete base of the circular portion of the Putnam Museum & Science Center (which houses the Lardner Balcony) in Davenport, to cover about 50 feet in length. For the Putnam (1717 W. 12th St., Davenport), vice president Kelly Lao asked Robb to recommend nature, science and pollination themes for that mural. A 50-foot-section of this concrete base at the Putnam Museum in Davenport will be covered with a new Metro Arts mural, by mid-July. “We talked about beekeeping, the history of the Putnam family,” she said. “Each group will give the client a few options to choose from. Sometimes the client will pull from different designs, or just choose one.” “I’m looking forward to both, it’s gonna be fun,” Robb said. Last year was cool, since one of her Metro Arts groups replaced the first mural she worked on – on the building just off the Centennial Bridge in Rock Island. “That was full circle – like 17 years later, we did a full new mural. It’s pretty crazy to think of that, thinking back to my first year.” Robb will work with 24 students, including 19 who are returning from last summer. Robb recently completed this mural for the Boys & Girls Club in downtown Moline. “It’s a good year, no pun intended,” she said Thursday. She’ll work in Rock Island in the mornings and in Davenport in the afternoons. “I’m excited – they’re two really phenomenal projects.” Since the summer of 2000, Metro Arts has provided area youth 15-21 years old with paid summer apprenticeships in various arts disciplines. For more information on Metro Arts, click HERE.
	Upcoming theatre in the QCA: Clinton Area Showboat Theatre opens for the season, 'Jersey Boys' at Circa '21 Catch dinner and a show at Circa '21 in Rock Island, or ride along the river with the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre.
	RDA financial gift helps Girl Scouts offer programming in Scott County A new monetary gift is helping Girl Scouts provide outreach programs for girls who might not otherwise be able to participate. Girl Scouts received a $25,000 gift from the Regional Development Authority (RDA) to support staff-led outreach programming for girls in the Scott County area. (Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois) “Girl Scouts’ goal is to give to all girls, no matter their backgrounds or abilities, an opportunity to reach their potential,” says Diane Nelson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. “Funding from RDA helps us to do just that and fulfill our mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character.” Over 650 girls in the Scott County region participated in the Girl Scout leadership programs. They created colorful chemical reactions, designed stencil paintings and made butter. The funding from the RDA allowed Girl Scouts to eliminate common barriers to afterschool activities, like lack of transportation or inability to pay membership fees. As a result, girls can practice healthy living, learn about STEM and develop respectful communication while working with positive adult mentors. The Girl Scout staff-led outreach program is offered to girls in schools or partner sites and removes barriers that can prevent girls from joining, like securing volunteers, paying the $25 membership fee, transportation and more. The organization provides paid staff to offer the program at the school or partner site during or after the school day. Click here to learn more about programs for Girl Scouts.
	Bix at 6 training runs begin June 13 It will be the first of four free training runs offered to those registered to run the Bix.
	Traffic Alert: Government Bridge only open to bicycle, walking traffic on intermittent basis The Government Bridge will only be available to bicycle and walking traffic on an intermittent basis, according to officials.
	Partnership between Monmouth, ROE focused on helping more students attend college The Illinois Regional Office of Education #33 and Monmouth College announced a new partnership to better serve students in Henderson, Knox, Mercer, and Warren counties.
	Programming: Channel 6.2 to air certain Indiana Fever games Several Indiana Fever games will be aired on Ion, Channel 6.2.
	Davenport man threatened to hurt elderly victims, police allege A 25-year-old Davenport man was in custody Thursday after Davenport Police allege he threatened elderly victims with physical harm, court records show. Austin Beauchamp, who was arrested Wednesday on a warrant, faces a felony charge of extortion, along with serious misdemeanor charges of fifth-degree theft against an older individual and fourth-degree criminal mischief, court records show. Austin Beauchamp (Scott County Jail) On May 21, officers responded to a disturbance at a Davenport residence, according to arrest affidavits. Beauchamp, police allege in affidavits, "has been in and out of the (residence,) threatening the victims (with) physical injury if they do not provide him with money or rides. When (Beauchamp) asks the victims for money, rides, or cigarettes and the victims do not provide them (Beauchamp) threatens to burn down the house with the victims in it." Additionally, Beauchamp told the victims "that he would kill them both if he could get away with it," police allege in affidavits. "In a fit of rage (Beauchamp) threw a Pepsi and broke two windows" at the home. The damage to the windows was about $330. Police say Beauchamp "stole the 79-year-old victim's cell phone" that cost $300. During the disturbance, Beauchamp "physically shoved the victim," putting the victim in fear of physical harm, affidavits show. Beauchamp, who was in custody Thursday in Scott County Jail, is set for a preliminary hearing June 14 in Scott County Court.
	LIVE: TV6 Investigates Talks: What goes into an investigation? Jenna Jackson sits down with Investigative producer Heidi Knecht as they share her role and what goes into an investigative piece.
	Tour the Quad Cities to see Quad City Art’s public sculptures Since 2002, Quad City Arts has been a pivotal force in shaping the cultural and urban landscape of the Quad Cities through their Public Sculpture Program.
	Parts of Schwiebert Park closing for resealing project Rock Island is sprucing up one of their parks, but they must close it for a couple of days first. A resealing and striping project means the parking lot and entrance into Schwiebert Riverfront Park on 18th Street and 1st Avenue will be closed on Monday, June 10, and Tuesday, June 11. The park and spray fountain will stay open and accessible at the 17th Street and First Avenue entrance. Parking is available throughout downtown Rock Island or in the parking lot across First Avenue. (City of Rock Island) The bike path through the area will be closed during the project. Bicyclists should walk their bikes around the parking lot to the river side of the park to enter the bike path again. Bicyclists are asked not to cross the parking lot entry during the project.
	Davenport caretaker with meth stole thousands from elderly victim, police allege A 50-year-old home caretaker is in custody after police allege she stole thousands from an elderly victim with ALS, according to court records. Stacey Coudron (Scott County Jail) Stacey Coudron, who was arrested Wednesday on a warrant, faces felony charges of financial exploitation of an older individual - first offense, first-degree theft, dependent adult abuse, and possession of contraband in a correctional institution, court records say. On April 8, Davenport Police spoke with a victim about theft from a Davenport residence that occurred from May 10, 2022-March 4, 2024, according to arrest affidavits. In affidavits, police allege Coudron sent herself money from a cash app - a total of $2,974 over 23 transactions from May 10, 2022 from Oct. 7, 2022. She "also paid 12 rent payments" between April 5, 2023 to March 4, 20224, totaling $16,730, affidavits show. "The victim was unaware of these transactions and did not give (Coudron) permission for any of these transactions," police say in affidavits. "(Coudron) was able to access the victim's financial information because of her status of at-home nurse/caretaker." The victim is an elderly person with ALS who was unable to set up their new computer, affidavits show, adding "This is how (Coudron) was able to take advantage of the victim." On Wednesday, Davenport Police transported Coudron to Scott County Jail on her active warrant shortly after 1:45 p.m. Wednesday. Prior to transporting her, officers asked Coudron whether she had "anything on her person she should not have," affidavits say. She said she did not. Affidavits show that, once inside the jail, jail staff located a small bag of white/crystal substance in the defendant's front left pants pocket. The substance weighed 1.05 grams total package weight and tested positive for methamphetamine. Coudron was being held on a total $30,000 bond Thursday in Scott County Jail, and is set for a preliminary hearing June 14 in Scott County Court. What is ALS? The disease called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is also known as ALS. It is a disease of the nervous system that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, and causes loss of muscle control. The disease worsens over time. FILE - New York Yankees' Lou Gehrig poses at a spring training game in St. Petersburg, Fla., in this March 16, 1935, file photo. Major League Baseball will hold its first Lou Gehrig Day on June 2, 2021, adding Gehrig to Jackie Robinson and Roberto Clemente on the short list of players honored throughout the big leagues. (AP Photo/Tom Sande, File) It is also called Lou Gehrig's disease after the famous baseball player who was diagnosed with it.
	'A Quiet Place' coming to Universal theme parks Created by Bettendorf natives Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, the creepy, tense world of “A Quiet Place” continues to make a lot of noise in the world of mass entertainment. After the first two films of the franchise grossed over half a billion dollars worldwide, and the prequel “A Quiet Place: Day One” due to hit theaters June 28, the series’ post-apocalyptic world will come to an all-new chilling haunted house at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights. The terror of the excruciating silence is set to begin Friday, Aug. 30 at Universal Orlando Resort, and Thursday, Sept. 5 at Universal Studios Hollywood, according to a Thursday release from Universal. Directed by John Krasinski and critically acclaimed for its suspenseful yet mostly silent storytelling, A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II follow the Abbott family as they try to survive the aftermath of sightless creatures with a sharp sense of hearing that draws them to prey on anything that makes the slightest noise. A scene from the "A Quiet Place" Halloween Horror Nights announcement video. Beck and Woods came up with the story, and co-wrote the original 2018 horror hit with Krasinski, who entirely wrote and directed the 2020 sequel. He and his wife Emily Blunt starred in the first two films – the first grossing $341 million (on a $17-million budget) and the second in 2021 raking in $297 million worldwide. “A Quiet Place Part II” had its world premiere in New York City on March 8, 2020. After over a year of postponements due to the COVID pandemic, it was theatrically released in the U.S. on May 28, 2021. It became available to stream on Paramount+ 45 days after its theatrical debut. The film set several box office records, including the biggest opening weekend during the course of the pandemic, and grossed $297.4 million worldwide. A third and final sequel, A Quiet Place Part III, directed by Krasinski, is in development and scheduled to be released in 2025. The franchise also includes a video game set within the same fictional universe that is in development by Saber Interactive. “A Quiet Place: Day One” was written and directed by Michael Sarnoski, based on a story by him and Krasinski. Mirroring the silence in the films, the Universal haunted houses will embrace unique sound design, special effects and the adept performances of the scare actors to convey the ominous sense of dread depicted in the films. Consequential to the storyline, Halloween Horror Nights will incorporate the use of American Sign Language (ASL) for the first time ever within the “A Quiet Place” haunted houses to capture the authenticity of the films. Fans will relive the tension that will come to life in the iconic scenes from the first two films, including traveling through the farmhouse that serves as the Abbott family’s shelter and stepping into the root cellar where Evelyn Abbott escapes to give birth as one of the creatures closes in, the theme parks’ release said. The snarls of the larger-than-life predators will follow guests at every spine-chilling turn, and guests must remember: if they hear you, they will hunt you. Horror fans and movie buffs can now plan their visit to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood as all tickets are available for purchase. A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options are available for purchase to the Universal Studios Hollywood event, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7 p.m. event opening time, the premium R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear and Ultimate Fear, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. Click here to purchase tickets. Last Picture House series Beck and Woods are the primary owners and founders of the Last Picture House, a two-screen independent movie theater in downtown Davenport, with a cocktail lounge and recently opened rooftop bar with its own screen. After showing Charlie Chaplin’s “City Lights” on Wednesday, June 5, “Playtime” is next up in "The Films That Inspired A Quiet Place" screening series, with introductions by Beck and Woods. “You've likely never seen this film, or anything like it, and it demands to be viewed on the largest screen imaginable,” says The Last Picture House Facebook page. “Playtime” will be screened at 7 p.m., Wednesday June 12. "Jacques Tati's 1967 masterpiece still holds up as a feast of subtle sight gags, playful noise and, above all, visual wonders." (Time Out) You can get your tickets HERE. Scott Beck (left) and Bryan Woods (right) attended the “65” premiere March 7, 2023, with stars Adam Driver and Ariana Greenblatt at AMC Lincoln Square in New York City (Sony Pictures). And the third film in the series will be Paul Thomas Anderson's “There Will Be Blood” (starring Daniel Day-Lewis) on June 19 at 7 p.m. “A Quiet Place: Day One” comes to the theater on Thursday, June 27. For more information on Last Picture House (325 E. 2nd St., Davenport), click HERE.
	Registration open for Gilda's Club overnight kids' camp Registration is still open for Gilda’s Club’s free residential (overnight), in-person camp experience for children and teens entering grades 4-9 who are impacted by cancer. The camp runs June 16 – 21 and is a collaboration with Gilda’s Club Quad Cities, Camp Shalom and Genesis Cancer Care Institute. Click here to register online. At Camp Shalom in Maquoketa, campers can get to know other kids impacted by cancer while participating in activities like archery, canoeing, rope courses, campfire circles, camp songs and swimming. Camp Genesis also includes group activities where Gilda’s Club Quad Cities staff talk about cancer and emotions. Campers take a day trip to Genesis Cancer Care Institute that includes a hands-on tour of the hospital. Campers meet with doctors and staff to learn what comes with a diagnosis and treatment of cancer and ask questions in a safe environment. For more details or questions, call Nora Bosslet, Program Manager at Gilda’s Club (563) 326-7504 or email nora@gildasclubqc.org.
	Federal program brings funding to area mental health centers Three mental health centers in the QC area have been chosen to participate in a federal program that expands and improves access to coordinated mental health care and substance use treatment. “This is an investment in the health and well-being of our local communities,” said Illinois State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Being selected as part of this program will ensure mental and behavioral health services are available for residents in crisis, regardless of their ability to pay.” The Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Demonstration Program provides reimbursement through Medicaid for the full cost of services that CCBHCs provide, but at higher rates than what they previously received for Medicaid customers. The program is expected to bring an additional $150 million into Illinois’ behavioral health system. The Robert Young Center in Moline and Rock Island and Bridgeway, Inc. in Galesburg are receiving funding from the program. CCBHCs provide service access and care coordination through evidence-based practices and other supports. Services are based on an assessment of community needs, including crisis services that are available 24/7. CCBHCs must provide routine outpatient care within 10 business days to patients. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 or speak with someone via chat here. Click here to find support for mental health or substance use issues. Find treatment providers here or call (800) 662-HELP (4357).
	U of Iowa Healthcare opens new urgent care clinic in Bettendorf There’s another option for University of Iowa Health Care patients for same day and primary care in the Quad Cities. UI Health Care has opened a second urgent care clinic at their location at 865 Lincoln Road, Suite 400 in Bettendorf. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Patients of all ages can be seen at any UI Health Care urgent care or family medicine location, including the location at 2705 E. 53rd Street in Davenport. Patients can shorten their waiting time by joining the waiting queue online or in MyChart. One benefit for patients is having physicians who can care for the entire family and coordinate specialty care when needed. Specialists can see the same medical records maintained by family medicine providers. New patients can schedule online on UI Health Care’s Family Medicine website.
	African-American film fest opens in Davenport The second-annual Pulling Focus African American Film Festival of the Quad Cities kicks off tonight and runs through Sunday, June 9. The event celebrates the rich and diverse narratives of the Black Diaspora through the art of film. The festival will start with an opening ceremony and filmmaker meet-and-greet on tonight (June 6) at The Last Picture House, 325 E. 2nd St., Davenport. This boutique theater promises an intimate and unique viewing experience. Pulling Focus Film Festival organizer Gaye Shannon Burnett This year, organizer Gaye Shannon Burnett received an impressive 112 submissions and the festival accepted 70 films, showcasing a diverse range of genres, including cutting-edge sci-fi narratives, documentaries, and horror films, according to an event release. They are introducing a new category, The Reel Impact, alongside their traditional "Out-of-Competition" Showcase, emphasizing films with a strong social message. The festival has attracted filmmakers from around the globe, including submissions from the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Rwanda, Kenya, Japan, Jamaica, Italy, Iran, India, the country of Georgia, Ethiopia, Canada, Brazil, Belgium, Australia, and Angola. “We are proud to highlight the work of filmmakers from Davenport and Rock Island, and we are honored to host nine filmmakers traveling from cities such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, St. Louis, and even London to attend the festival,” Burnett said recently. “As our festival grows, so does the spotlight on our community and all the wonderful things we offer. Join us for a weekend of powerful cinema and community engagement featuring heavy hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar to enhance your festival experience,” she said in the release. The auditorium in the Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport. Founded by Gaye Shannon Burnett and her independent filmmaker son Jonathan Burnett, Pulling Focus is committed to empowering Black filmmakers and showcasing stories made by and about people of African descent. Through cinema, we bridge gaps between communities, fostering an appreciation for Black culture and creating awareness of the Black experience. The films that will be showcased at the festival “have been carefully curated by our festival founders and meticulously evaluated by our community judges,” according to the Pulling Focus website. “As a result, our community will be provided with a profound and meaningful glimpse into the diverse tapestry of the Black experience, both regionally and globally. It has been a true stroke of fortune to also receive submissions from talented filmmakers across the global Black diaspora, sparking vibrant dialogues and connections here in the Quad Cities.” “As we immerse ourselves in stories from different corners of the world, it will become clear that our commonalities far outweigh our differences, regardless of where we live or the languages we speak,” the site says. “This eye-opening and unifying experience will solidify our commitment to fostering understanding, empathy, and shared aspirations within our community.” The festival schedule is as follows: Thursday, June 6 TMBC Lincoln Center, 318 E. 7th St., DavenportScreening Block #1: 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Azubuike Hospitality Room for Festival Staff: 1-3:30 p.m. The Last Picture House, 325 E. 2nd St., DavenportOpening Reception: 6-7:30 p.m. VIP Screening Block #2: 7:30-10 p.m. Friday, June 7 TMBC Lincoln Center Screening Block #3: 1-3:30 p.m. Putnam Museum, 1717 W. 12th St., Davenport Screening Block #4: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, June 8 Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St., DavenportScreening Block #5 (Out-of-Competition Showcase): 11:10 a.m.-1:20 p.m.Panel Discussion: 1:30-3:10 p.m.Screening Block #6: 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.VIP/Filmmakers’ Mixer/Reception (with heavy hors d'oeuvres and cash bar): 5:30-6:15 p.m. Featured Speaker/Interview/Artist Talk with Felicia D. Henderson: 6:30-8 p.m. Sunday, June 9 Venue TBA Reel Impact Discussion: 12:30-2:30 p.m. The Last Picture House Closing and Awards Ceremony: 3-5 p.m. Felicia D. Henderson visits the #IMDboat at San Diego Comic-Con 2022: Day Three on The IMDb Yacht on July 23, 2022 in San Diego, Calif. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for IMDb) The Saturday night reception features Felicia D. Henderson, creator of Showtime's Emmy-nominated series “Soul Food.” She will share insights from her acclaimed career and her new short film, “The Rebel Girls.” For more details and to view the full festival lineup, click HERE.
	Celebrate Juneteenth at Cultural Arts Festival in Clinton Celebrate Juneteenth at the vibrant, rich Juneteenth Cultural Arts Festival in Clinton.
	KWQC: Top headlines in the mid-day Thursday Join KWQC for the top headlines at noon on Thursday.
	Illinois Department of Transportation holding job fair The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is hiring! IDOT is hosting a free Career Fair on Tuesday, June 11 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Rock Island – Quad Cities, 226 17th Street. Representatives from IDOT offices and bureaus who supervise technical and administrative support responsibilities will be on hand to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at IDOT locations. Attendees will learn how to apply for state jobs and attend breakout sessions. Staff from Central Management Services will be available to help explain the application process. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office will have representatives on site to answer questions about obtaining a commercial driver’s license for positions where one is necessary. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs also will be available to help with programs and services for qualified veterans. Participants are asked to bring a laptop if possible. A limited number of computers will be available to register with the state’s electronic job application system. Click here for more information about working at IDOT, including current job openings, pay and benefits or email the IDOT's Office of Diversity and Recruitment at DOT.Recruitment@Illinois.gov.
	Davenport North High School show choir students ready to show out at special performance Davenport North High School hosted a youth show choir camp to prepare students for their special performance that’s meant to get the word out to other students about becoming involved in show choir next school year.
	Circa looking to fill kids' roles in mainstage shows Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island will be holding children’s auditions for two upcoming productions. Auditions will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 15 at the theater, 1828 3rd Ave., Rock Island. Circa '21 auditions will be Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. They are looking for someone between the ages of 9-11 to play Pugsly Addams in the upcoming production of “The Addams Family.” Production dates, including rehearsals, are Aug, 22 through Nov. 2. 2024. They are also looking for several children to play roles in their holiday musical, “Miracle on 34th Street.” Production dates for that show will be Oct. 24 through Dec. 29. All roles might be double cast and all roles in these professional productions are paid. Character breakdown and requirements can be found at circa21.com/auditions. Those unable to attend auditions can send submissions to producer Denny Hitchcock at dpjh@circa21.com.
	Rock Island Dental Associates offer flexible schedule for John Deere layoff employees Rock Island Dental Associates is offering flexible scheduling for John Deere employees affected by the recent layoffs.
	QC youth orchestra earns Illinois honor The Quad City Youth Symphony Orchestra has been named 2024 Orchestra of the Year in the youth category by the Illinois Council of Orchestras (ICO). This week, the ICO announced the 2024 recipients of its annual awards for excellence in the field of music performance and for support of musical organizations. The QC Youth Symphony Orchestra in performance. An awards panel of judges drawn from the Illinois Council of Orchestras Board of Directors and independent professional musicians reviewed nominations representing orchestras, youth orchestras, and chamber ensembles from throughout Illinois, according to a press release. "The Illinois Council of Orchestra's is thrilled to recognize the impressive achievements by the Quad City Youth Symphony Orchestra for their continued dedication to music education in Illinois,” said Tim Corpus, the ICO board president. “Their high achieving arts program is a beacon within the state and a true benefit to the Quad Cities community." Violinist Katie Jones plays with the YSO at a church in Jena, Germany during a June 2023 European tour. “I am absolutely thrilled and honored by the well-deserved recognition of our Quad City Symphony Youth Ensembles and these incredibly inspiring young musicians,” QCSO executive director Brian Baxter said Wednesday by email. “They come from every part of the QC and we are thrilled for the acknowledgement from the ICO.” Baxter and other QCSO staff are in Houston, Tex., this week to present at the League of American Orchestras 79th-annual national conference. With QCSO marketing director Caitlin Lingle Bishop, and Chelsea Sammons, the orchestra’s director of education and community engagement, their panel on Friday afternoon will explore how orchestras can evolve to be more inclusive, youth-focused, and community-centric, all while ensuring financial sustainability. The Youth Symphony Orchestra performance at the 2022 Riverfront Pops at LeClaire Park. “Through a multi-pronged approach to audience development, emphasizing inclusivity, youth engagement, and robust community partnerships, discuss how orchestral music can be accessible to all, especially underserved and diverse populations,” according to a presentation summary. Highlighting the Quad City Symphony Orchestra’s youth-centric initiatives, from Students @ Symphony, which invites school music groups to Masterworks performances, to the formation of the Quad City Symphony Youth Ensembles Concert Club, attendees will discover how to nurture the next generation of orchestra enthusiasts and reinforce your community-centric entity, bringing people together through music. Ernesto Estigarribia conducting the QC Youth Symphony Orchestra at a church in Berlin, Germany on June 19, 2023. The QCSO announced in late March that Hisham Bravo Groover was hired as assistant conductor of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and music director of the Quad City Symphony Youth Ensembles. He also is a new assistant professor of music and director of orchestral studies at Augustana College. For more information on the QCYSE program, click HERE.
	Celebrate Juneteenth in Clinton Celebrate Juneteenth with the Vince Jetter Community Center at a free festival on Saturday, June 15, from 3 - 6 p.m. at Clinton Park, 399 – 301 S. Fourth Street in Clinton. The Juneteenth Cultural Arts Festival is a family-friendly event featuring art, music, dancing, games, giveaways and community. (Vince Jetter Community Center) Visitors can enjoy a performance from the Mujaahid African Drum Ensemble, some of the top Master Drummers in Chicago. The group’s members are dynamic, energetic and exciting griots (African tribal storytellers) who pass on the spirit and tradition of African heritage from generation to generation. Muntheru Shah founded the group in 1990, and Tyehimba Mtu is one of three African drum carvers in the U.S., playing polyrhythms on several drums. Isaiah Williams, of Zay Creatives in Rock Island, will lead interactive art activities. Williams, who goes by "Zay", creates art using canvas, clothing and shoes and by developing relationships with musicians. He has held live visual art demonstrations in the Quad Cities, Chicago, Dubuque and other communities. His engaging personality brings out the best in artists, no matter their skill levels. Participants can explore African cultural heritage through large interactive paintings, which will be on display later this summer at the Vince Jetter Community Center. The Ebony Illusion Dance Team, led by Tiffany Harris, will perform a variety of dances. For further information, please contact the Vince Jetter Community Center at vincejettercc@gmail.com.
	Family Resources announces second round of layoffs After announcing layoffs for 26 employees in early May, Family Resources has announced that it will undergo a second round of layoffs.
	$560M Mega Millions winning ticket sold in Illinois One Illinois Mega Millions player had all the luck with their draw last night.
	Funding cuts mean layoffs, fewer services at Family Resources Contract changes mean cuts in staffing and services at Family Resources. There have been changes in contracts that provide services through the Children’s Mental Health System, meaning Family Resources will be experiencing another round of layoffs. The first layoffs were announced in early May, followed by an outpouring of support from the community. The new round of layoffs will be smaller, but fewer services will be offered. The contracts no longer being offered by Family Resources include: Crisis Stabilization Residential Services, Crisis Stabilization Community Based Services, Co-Response with Law Enforcement, and Care Coordination (Juvenile Court Liaison, Health and Human Services Liaison and Complex Families). The group remains committed to serving those in need, despite the challenges. Services that are still available for anyone needing assistance include: Survivor Services - free, confidential services to survivors of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, human trafficking, homicide and other violent crimes in Clinton, Jackson, Scott, Muscatine, Louisa and Cedar counties in Iowa, and Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties in Illinois. Mental Health and Counseling – therapists provide individual, family and group outpatient therapy for Muscatine and Scott counties. Coordinated Assessment Program (CAP) – serves kids and families who need services by offering comprehensive care coordination in Scott County. The program is funded partly by Davenport, Bettendorf, Scott County, John Deere Foundation and United Way. Integrated Health Homes (IHH) – offers holistic care coordination for people with Medicaid and a qualifying mental health diagnosis in Scott and Muscatine Counties. Holistic Care Coordination is offered to kids and families who do not qualify for IHH or CAP through donor support. Iowa Aftercare Services Network - provides voluntary services and support to adults ages 18-24 who have aged out of foster care or another court-ordered placement in the eastern Iowa region. Foster and Adoption Services - offers licensing and support to prospective and current foster and adoptive families in 17 counties in the eastern Iowa region. High Roads Advantage Program –promotes literacy and economic stability for young adults and families by providing effective, work-based education that integrates basic skills in real work situations. Donations in support of Family Resources’ programming may be made here. Volunteers are always welcome. Click here for more information on Family Resources and their services.
	1850′s style base ball game to be played at John Deere Historic Site on Saturday 1850′s style base ball game will take place Saturday afternoon in Grand Detour, Illinois
	Frank Caliendo coming to Rhythm City Casino in September Frank Caliendo is bringing the laughs to Rhythm City Casino’s Event Center on Thursday, September 12 at 8 p.m. Tickets will be available online or at The Market at Rhythm City, 7077 Elmore Avenue in Davenport. There will be a presale on Thursday, June 6 at 10 a.m. and general ticket sales start on Friday, June 7 at 10 a.m. Frank Caliendo (Rhythm City Casino) Comedian, actor and impressionist Frank Caliendo ’s comedic timing and impressions have been the focus of viral video clips, TV shows, radio appearances and live shows for over 20 years. Caliendo creates comedic situations for celebrities, sports figures and political leaders. Caliendo starred in his own TBS TV series, Frank TV, an hour-long TBS special, Frank Caliendo: All Over the Place and Comedy Central Presents: Frank Caliendo. He was part of the cast on the Fox TV series MADtv for five years and has been a guest over 20 times combined on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Tonight Show and The Late Show. His acting credits include The Comebacks, two episodes of the Disney Channel series, Liv and Maddie, the Bob Odenkirk-produced IFC series, Birthday Boys, the TBS series Sullivan and Son, and an episode of the Valerie Bertinelli and Betty White’s TV Land series, Hot in Cleveland. He has voiced characters in three episodes of the Chuck Lorre & Kathy Bates Netflix series Disjointed, the animated Disney Channel series, Gravity Falls, and an episode of the Disney Channel animated series, Phineas and Ferb. For more information on Rhythm City Casino, including upcoming events, click here.
	Longtime leader at Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine retires The Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine announces the retirement of Mel McMains, who has served as the chair of the Investment Committee for more than two decades, a news release says. Mel McMains (Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine) His tenure with the Community Foundation has been marked by a steadfast commitment to the financial stewardship and strategic growth of our community’s resources. Under his leadership, the volunteer Investment Committee has consistently outperformed national investment peer benchmarks, ensuring that funds are managed with the highest level of expertise and care. “Mel McMains has made an extraordinary contribution to the Community Foundation’s success," said Rich Dwyer, chairman of the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine. "The volunteer Investment Committee, under Mel’s leadership, has been instrumental in growing our assets and credibility. Individual, business, and agency donors have taken notice and chosen the Community Foundation to achieve their charitable intentions.” McMains joined the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine in the early 2000s, bringing an extensive career portfolio of investment management experience and a dedication to serving the community. Over the years, his vision and guidance have been instrumental in balancing the needs of today with growth for tomorrow and ensuring long-term success for the charitable needs supported through the Community Foundation’s 300-plus funds. “We are profoundly grateful for Mel’s dedication and leadership,” said Charla Schafer, president of the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine. “Mel has been a vital figure in the success of the Community Foundation aligning his intellect, financial expertise, time commitment, and heart. It is not debatable that our community, both today and for future generations, will be strengthened by Mel McMain’s volunteerism and vision.” “After working closely with Mel McMains for 10 years, I have firsthand knowledge of his deep commitment, support, and active leadership in investing for the future of the area’s charitable causes," said Judi Holdorf, retired executive director of the Community Foundation. "Although I am no longer in the area having retired to Arizona, I keep a watchful eye on the many good things happening in Muscatine. I can attest to the fact that Mel has had a hand in many of them." David Jones, retired Chief Financial Officer of KENT Corporation, has been elected by the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine Board of Directors to succeed McMains in the role of volunteer Investment Committee chair. He has been working alongside McMains for six years on the Investment Committee. Before leaving his role, McMains led the Community Foundation through an extensive inquiry and review process to align with Mercer Investments LLC for investment services. With this advisory relationship, the volunteer Investment Committee retains responsibility for strategic direction and oversight of the Community Foundation’s monetary investments, with the support of professional advisors and industry-leading modeling tools.
	Contract therapist for Mid City High School accused of helping student avoid police Independent contract therapist at Davenport's Mid City High School accused of helping student avoid police during active investigation.
	Group O lays off 128 workers effective this week These layoffs were first announced in February.
	Weekend Rundown with WLLR \| June. 6, 2024 There are many family-friendly events going on this weekend, and we've brought in Dani Howe from WLLR to break it down.
	Family Resources confirms second round of layoffs Family Resources has confirmed a second round of layoffs this year.
	Walk to create awareness about gun violence set for Davenport A Wear Orange speaking program and walk around the park will be 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 8, at Vander Veer Botanical Park, 215 W. Central Park Ave., Davenport, at the stone fountain, according to a news release. The event will commemorate the life of Hadiya Pendleton, who was shot and killed in a Chicago park in 2013. It also aims to honor survivors, build community and raise awareness with the public about gun violence. Among those attending will be members of Moms Demand Action - Quad Cities, gun-violence survivors and community members. Speeches with local Moms Demand Action leaders and gun violence survivors will begin at 10 am. For more information contact Kaleigh Rogers at kaleighmrogers@gmail.com.
	EICC announces new vice chancellor Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) is proud to announce the appointment of Ashlee Spannagel, Ed.D., as the new vice chancellor for workforce development, according to a news release. Spannagel brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, having served in various leadership positions in education and workforce development, the release says. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (eicc.edu) Spannagel joins EICC after a successful tenure as the dean of career and technical education (CTE) and workforce development at Southeastern Community College (SCC). With a strong background in fostering collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners, she is poised to lead EICC's efforts in preparing students for success in the workforce. She will oversee the development and implementation of programs and initiatives aimed at addressing the evolving needs of employers in the region. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Spannagel to EICC. Her vision includes fostering innovation in response to changes in higher education and the workforce landscape. We look forward to synergizing her knowledge and skills with our team in service to our communities,” said Liang Chee Wee, interim chancellor of Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. Previously, Spannagel served as the Delabar CTE System director and compliance officer, managing Perkins funding and compliance for eight school districts under the umbrella of the Regional Office of Education #33. She spent five years with Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, holding two successive positions: Retention coordinator and recruiter at Frontier Community College, where she focused on student success and recruitment; and program director of grants, compliance, and outreach, where she prepared state, federal, and private grants and ensured compliance with state and federal legislation. Spannagel earned a doctor of education from Capella University. In her new role, she will work closely with faculty, staff, students, and community partners to develop strategies for enhancing workforce development programs and services. She will also play a key role in fostering relationships with employers to ensure EICC's programs align with industry needs and trends. "I am honored to join Eastern Iowa Community Colleges and have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the economic vitality of the region," said Spannagel. "I am excited to collaborate with the talented team at EICC to develop innovative workforce development solutions that meet the needs of our students and our community partners."
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for June 6, 2024 Officials at Clinton's ADM plant have revealed the cause of Wednesday's fire, and Bettendorf police have arrested four juveniles connected to recent break-ins.
	Illinois State Board of Education releases report on reading comprehension Roughly 70% of third-grade students across Illinois are not reading at their appropriate level.
	Tuesday's primary election sees low voter turnout in Muscatine County According to the unofficial results of Tuesday’s primary election, 5.54 percent of voters in Muscatine County, or 1,596 registered voters, voted out of 28,784.
	Subjects from high-speed chase in Muscatine charged with drug crimes Two Muscatine men connected to a high-speed chase have been charged with drug crimes, but have not, yet, been charged with crimes related to the chase or reports of gunfire.
	Wilton Candy Kitchen nominated for USA Today's Best Candy Store in America This week, it was announced that Wilton Candy Kitchen, located at 310 Cedar Street in Wilton, was nominated for USA Today’s Best Candy Store in America.
	Deadly severe weather sweeps east coast overnight One tornado touched down in Maryland while one tornado swept Michigan. The weather left widespread damage, reports of many injuries, and killed a two-year-old boy.
	Moline City Council approves funding for bike path connection Moline plans to build a dedicated path connecting the Mississippi River Trail from 17th St and 19th St.
	Moline-Coal Valley School District moving its administrative support office District officials will begin moving to their new home on Aug. 2.
	Jeff's Car Corner in Davenport nominated for national award Jeff West of Jeff's Car Corner in Davenport is in the running for an award from the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association.
	Low turnout helps fuel 12-point race in Iowa 1st Congressional District GOP primary A passionate right flank campaign and low turnout helped propel a Davenport prayer breakfast organizer to within 12 percentage points of a Republican congressional incumbent in Tuesday's primary.
	Rock Island National Cemetery sets open house, tours Rock Island National Cemetery will hold an open house with walking tours from 3-6 p.m. Wednesday, June 26, at Rock Island National Cemetery, according to a news release. Rock Island National Cemetery (OurQuadCities.com) Veterans and their spouses, veteran service officers, funeral home directors and staff, members of Congress, and the public are invited. Walking tours will be given at 3:15, 4:15 and 5:15 p.m. The cemetery was established in 1863 and has two Medal of Honor recipients and other notable burials. Tours will begin at the Memorial Walkway. Visitors can go to the administration building to find out information about veterans benefits and pre-need burial eligibility so veterans and their spouses can plan in advance to use VA burial benefits that veterans have earned through their military service. The Friends of Rock Island National Cemetery and Bi-County Memorial Day Association will have a table with information about how they support the cemetery. The U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs operates 155 national cemeteries, one national veterans burial ground and 34 soldiers’ lots and monument sites in 42 states and Puerto Rico. More than 4 million Americans, including veterans of every war and conflict, are buried in VA national cemeteries.
	Davenport council members revive debate on downtown one-ways At least two new Davenport council members want to revive debate on a 2022 decision to eventually convert the downtown's one-ways to have two directions of traffic.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, June 6, 2024 Ryan L. “Rylie” Gean, 31, of Bettendorf, passed away Monday, June 3, 2024, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Illinois. Arrangements at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, June 6, 2024 Richard Schubert, 66, of Burlington, Iowa, passed away Monday, June 3, 2024, at Great River Hospice, West Burlington, Iowa. Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, Moline.
Wednesday, June 5th, 2024
	Bix at 6 training runs begin June 13th The Iowa American Water Bix at 6 training runs will begin on Thursday, June 13th. It will be the first of four free training runs offered to those registered to run the Bix.
	Mountain biking rises in popularity amongst QCA youth “I think kids are just looking for something new to do. It’s a fun sport, it gets them outside. I just think the word is spreading that the kids enjoy it," said Karl Dimmer.
	Iowa company recycling old wind turbine blades Regen Fiber expects to process more than 30,000 tons of blades each year.
	Here's where kids in Davenport can get a free meal this summer Davenport schools will be offering free meals to kids around the district this summer.
	Some IL lawmakers claim $5.3 billion state road budget could be spent more effectively Lawmakers say staffing issues and a slower approval process are holding back the state from using all of its road funding.
	Rock Island County Health Department handing out Narcan to residents The drug can be used to help mitigate a suspected opioid overdose.
	Rockford airport bringing back international flights The airport will offer flights to Cancun, Punta Cana and Costa Rica.
	Set up is underway for Clinton’s Tailgate ‘N’ Tallboys festival Crews were in Clinton Wednesday to set up for the second annual Tailgate ‘N’ Tallboys Festival. The event is scheduled to take place on June 6. - June 8. in the Clinton’s River Front Area with activities starting at 2:00 pm each day according to organizers.
	Weed Park Lagoon project moving forward, Muscatine city officials say A nearly half million-dollar contract to revitalize the lagoons at Weed Park in Muscatine along with a quarter million dollar project for Wayfinding sign fabrication and installation is set to be approved by the Muscatine City Council at Thursday night’s council meeting.
	Golfers tee off at Quad Cities Chamber Golf Outing A tribute to a Quad-City man who had a welcoming smile for all, is now greeting golfers at Palmer Hills Golf Course in Bettendorf. The Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce dedicated a bench with a plaque in honor of Larry Mokeben, considered a trailblazer with the Bettendorf Chamber of Commerce before the chambers merged to become the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce. Mokeben was remembered as someone who always had a welcoming smile. The bench dedication came right before the annual Quad Cities Chamber Golf Outing. The tournament featured a luncheon and drinks before some friendly competition. Organizers say the event is a great way for members to connect. Business expansion projects generated more than $75 million for the local economy last year.
	Therapy Dogs bring comfort and joy to residents at Davenport nursing home In senior care facilities across the nation, therapy dogs are spreading joy and companionship, but their impact goes beyond mere comfort.
	Gov. Kim Reynolds speaks to QCA business conference Gov. Kim Reynolds spoke June 5 in Davenport at a business conference. Reynolds delivered a speech in front of representatives from more than 500 businesses. She credits the businesses for being part of the reason Iowa is now considered a top ten state to live. The Governor added her priority is to help grow businesses, and push for tax reforms played a part. Reynolds finished by saying her plan is for Iowa to be a top five state by next year.
	Capitol Notebook: Iowa Workforce Development leader tells Congress about benefit changes Iowa Workforce Development Executive Director Beth Townsend testified this week in front of a U.S. House subcommittee on work and welfare.
	Rock Island High School students earn recognition in National Pitch Competition Out of 60 submissions, Team Swaver from Rock Island High School is among 25 Quarter-Finalists in the highly competitive National Pitch Competition, according to a news release. Team Members include recent grads Lucette Feigley, Julian Jimenez, Mason Lensing, and Larry Oliver. (Rock Island-Milan School District) Back in May, five teams consisting of RIHS INCubatoredu Entrepreneur and Enterprise students gave their business pitches to a row of “sharks” at Final Pitch Night. Team Swaver took home the grand prize of Best Business Model and $5,000. Their presentation was submitted to the National INCUbatoredu Pitch Competition. The team’s business will be evaluated by a judging panel and the semi-finalists will be announced in the upcoming weeks. Swaver is a device that can be put in toilet tanks to save water when flushing. Team Members include recent grads Lucette Feigley, Julian Jimenez, Mason Lensing, and Larry Oliver.
	ICan Bike camp teaches individuals with disabilities how to ride a bike The Children’s Therapy Center of the Quad Cities has hosted the ICan Bike camp since 2015. ICan Shine is an international charitable non-profit organization that collaborates with local organizations to host three different types of ICan programs, one of those being the ICan Bike program.
	Bettendorf Police: Residents can help prevent 'crimes of opportunity' As the school year wraps up and the weather gets warmer, the Bettendorf Police Department (BPD) wants to remind residents to take the extra step and ensure they lock up their vehicles, garages, and homes in order to prevent “crimes of opportunity," according to a news release. (bettendorf.org) “We always see a spike in juvenile crime this time of the year and taking the small step oflocking up will help keep this spike down,” said Captain Justin Paul. On Monday night, Bettendorf Police reported a number of juveniles flooding both sides ofDevils Glen Road in the Deerbrook, Deer Ridge, Glenview, Linton Hills, and Halcyon Hillsneighborhoods. “They were entering vehicles and garages that were left unlocked,” said Paul. “Fortunately,the Davenport Police Department (DPD) apprehended four of these juvenile suspects on the night of Tuesday, June 4th, 2024, but there will be others still out there committing these crimes." Davenport Police recovered three guns from those juveniles, "which serves as a stark reminder of how quickly vehicle and garage burglaries could turn into violent crimes," Paul said. When “crimes of opportunity” occur, significant police resources are spent taking initial reports, processing crime scenes, documenting items stolen, and searching for the perpetrators. “This results in fewer proactive patrols throughout neighborhoods, less traffic enforcement to reduce speeding and crashes, and less overall police presence and visibility throughout the entire city,” added Paul. In addition to locking up vehicles, garages, and homes, Bettendorf Police encourage residents to call 911 if they observe suspicious activity or crimes in progress. If they have any securitycamera/doorbell camera video of suspects or criminal activity, they can call the Scott EmergencyCommunications Center (SECC) at 563-388-3661 so an officer can be sent to retrieve thatfootage.
	Virtual QCA film series to feature 'A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting' The 'Movies That Matter: Informing Your Vote' virtual film and discussion series will feature the film 'A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting.' The series from the Franciscan Peace Center will feature the film June 11-27. A follow-up presentation by survivors and a viewer discussion session will be held on June 27. The 'Movies That Matter: Informing Your Vote' series offers monthly access to documentaries addressing topics relevant to voters, including immigration, gun violence, overcoming partisanship, care of the Earth, voting rights and more. 'A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting' (IMDb) According to a press release about this showing of 'A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting,' The film provides an in-depth look at the tragic events of October 27th, 2018, when a gunman opened fire inside a Pittsburgh synagogue, killing eleven people as they prayed, in what would become the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. 'A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting' is a deeply personal portrait of the survivors, victims and family members who share their harrowing first-hand accounts of the impact of the shooting on the community.The film is rooted in a community in the aftermath of a violent attack, as they work to rebuild and heal. Despite core differences, they come together to determine what justice looks like and how to best move forward while honoring and learning from the past. The film sheds light on the collective trauma suffered by a tight-knit group and brings into sharp focus the hate-based rhetoric that surrounds many of the mass shootings today, threatening the fabric of our society. Franciscan Peace Center The virtual screening of 'A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting' runs June 11-27. Advance registration is required to view the film online, available here. To watch a trailer for the film, click here. For more information, click here.
	Taste of Ethiopia to close, new restaurant will move in Several of the restaurant's signature dishes will be preserved when Iowa City-based African restaurant "I Love FuFu" takes over the location.
	Wilson Middle School student recognized with national award Textbook publisher gave the 180 Awards to 20 kids across the country who inspire their peers and exemplify positivity.
	Former Scott County Sheriff K9 laid to rest Spike was a narcotics and patrol canine for the Scott County Sheriff's Office from 2013 to 2021.
	Illinois man gets life in prison for killing Iowa grocery store worker A Jo Daviess County man has been sentenced to life in prison for killing an Iowa grocery store worker in November 2023.
	'I Can Shine Bike Camp' in East Moline helping those with different abilities ride bicycles 28 children and young adults are taking part in the program, which the Children's Therapy Center has been hosting since 2014.
	Man convicted of attempted murder fails to return to Davenport correctional facility Authorities are searching for a man convicted of attempted murder who failed to report back to the Davenport Residential Corrections Facility.
	Moline-Coal Valley school district moving administrative support center The office will move to the former Vibrant Credit Union corporate office.
	Taste of Ethiopia to close as owners retire, new restaurant opening Several of the restaurant's signature dishes will be preserved when Iowa City-based African restaurant "I Love FuFu" takes over the location.
	Supporters react to Davenport street conversion concerns The Davenport City Council hesitated on the two-way street conversion project, which has spent years in the planning process, and now the Downtown Davenport Partnership says delaying the street conversion even more could waste federal dollars and affect all other roads needing work in the city. New Davenport City Council members let their voices be heard regarding the two-way street conversion project on 3rd and 4th streets downtown. "Maybe that business on 3rd is going to suffer," Tim Dunn, Davenport's 2nd Ward Alderman, said. "Or 4th is going to suffer in two-way traffic. I just don't think it's a good idea." Despite concerns from new city council members, Downtown Davenport Partnership's Executive Director Kyle Carter says the project is very far in the process, with multiple federal grants helping the conversion happen. "If this is to get re-litigated all over again, it could potentially risk a lot of time and a lot of money if we drag this back through the process again," Carter said. Grants awarded to the two-way conversion project were connected through a package of road improvements, including road resurfacing and flood mitigation projects. Since the federal government awarded the city for all aspects of the package and not just the two way conversion aspect, the risk the city could take if deciding not to continue would be the potential loss of grant money and time wasted on the project. "We can appreciate that there's concern," Carter said. "There has been since day one. This has never been a topic that everyone is going to agree on, and that's okay. But, the decision was made. To try and undo the decision at this point is going to create a lot of other chaos that people need to understand the impact of. It's not as simple as oh, we're just not going to do that." Other city council members who've been elected for more than two years tried to explain the importance of the project Tuesday night. "That's seven years it's taken to get to this point," Marion Meginnis, Davenport's 3rd Ward Alderman, said. "I would hate to see anything to happen to this process, that would delay that start. I would be very concerned if anything happened to that, and we said oh we're not going to 3rd and 4th street because it's not that simple." A workshop will be held June 15, where the Downtown Davenport Partnership hopes to educate council members who are hesitant and get the project back on track.
	ELECTION 2024: Iowa primary turnout lowest so far in 21st century Turnout for Tuesday’s primaries was especially low, with only 8.3% of registered voters showing up to the polls. Turnout is usually in the 20% range for a primary election, and hasn’t been this low so far in the 21st century.
	Season underway for Clinton LumberKings baseball team News 8's Shelby Kluver sat down with the team's new general manager to find out what deals and fan experiences are coming up this summer.
	Davenport Community School District launches summer meal program Davenport schools will be offering free meals to kids around the district this summer.
	Davenport North student selected to attend 6-week Broadway camp Reece Riewerts will be able to sharpen his singing, dancing and acting skills alongside guest Broadway performers.
	ADM plant evacuated in Clinton Wednesday morning due to fire Officials say it started around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 5.
	Man convicted of attempted murder fails to return to Davenport correctional facility Authorities are searching for a man convicted of attempted murder who failed to report back to the Davenport Residential Corrections Facility.
	John Deere Classic scores $70M in QC economic impact The John Deere Classic has an economic impact of over $70 million on the Quad Cities, according to estimates compiled by Visit Quad Cities and the PGA Tour event. Visit Quad Cities uses the Destinations International Event Impact Calculator (EIC) and visitor profile business intelligence via Datafy to analyze event performance. Sepp Straka poses with the trophy after winning the John Deere Classic at TPC Deere Run on July 9, 2023 in Silvis, Ill. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) “The John Deere Classic produces on a lot of levels for the Quad Cities region,” Dave Herrell, Visit Quad Cities president/CEO, said Wednesday by email. “The impact on tourism, our brand identity, our community’s reputation, and positioning, along with the local pride the JDC instills in all of us is vital to how we advance the Quad Cities forward. Being on a global stage is of high value and our regional economy is the better for it. “We are activating the QC, the visitor economy and hospitality industry are thriving, and the quality of vibrancy our community experiences through this signature event is a win any way you want to dissect it,” he said of the tournament, which tees off July 1-7, 2024 at TPC Deere Run in Silvis. “Hosting impactful events can transform places and the JDC and the billion plus people we reach (on broadcast channels) is simply an opportunity to continually leverage.” The Classic (which originally launched in 1971) was last studied for its economic impact in 2015, and JDC tournament director Andrew Lehman said Wednesday 2023 was picked to get new data as it has gained ground since the pandemic. There are no exact attendance figures available (since most volunteers are not counted, and there were nearly 2,400 volunteers in 2023), but total indirect and direct economic impact grew from $63.2 million in 2015 to $70.9 million in 2023, Lehman said. 2023 economic impact numbers for the John Deere Classic. Of total paying guests to the tournament, an estimated 47 percent stayed overnight last year. Of the 2023 numbers, they found: $3.7 million was spent on food and beverages $4.1 million on retail $5.6 million on hotels $5.6 million on recreational activities $2.9 million on transportation For 2023, $23.1 million was spent in direct impact, $33.7 million in indirect impact, and $14.1 million in the Birdies for Charity program benefitting nonprofits in the region. The 2023 analysis also found that QC hotel occupancy was up 10.1% compared to the JDC week in 2022, and overall hotel revenue increased 29% from the previous year. “John Deere brings about 900 to 1,000 guests from around the world who are here. We've got all of our guests. We work with our hotel partners,” Lehman said Wednesday. “The impact report reflects the numbers based on the data that was given to the folks who did the study from all the partners involved.” The direct economic impact is the money that's spent as a direct result of the event, while the indirect impact is for dollars “being reinvested in the community, whether it's restaurants hiring staff, hotel people, that's where that number is driven from,” Lehman said. “It's growth in those businesses based off of the fact that that event is happening from the direct economic impact. It's when those businesses are then reinvesting in their product to be bigger and better.” Record growth for Birdies Birdies for Charity contributions (included in the direct economic impact) grew from $8.9 million in 2015 to $14.1 million last year. Since Deere became title sponsor of the golf tournament in 1997, 99 percent of all Birdies donations have been received over that time, Lehman noted. Birdies for Charity formally started in 1993. JDC tournament director Andrew Lehman “We live in an area where people understand the nonprofit sector and how vital it is to our marketplace. We've got so many nonprofits that are doing such wonderful work in our community,” he said. “It's a correlation from the business community, and it starts in my estimation, it starts with John Deere. They're very civic minded and philanthropic as a company.” The JDC is by far the number-one charitable contributor per capita on the PGA Tour, for several years running, Lehman said. “I think Phoenix this year, the WM Phoenix Open, I think they did right at about $17 million, which is an awesome, awesome number that they should take a ton of pride in. But you're also comparing, you're comparing a market of 5 million to a community of 380,000,” he said of the QC metro area. Supporting nonprofits is also built into the Classic’s DNA. The 2023 Birdies for Charity total -- $14.1 million -- broke a single-year record, and brought the program's 30-year total contributions to over $173 million. “Our mission is pretty simple. It's five bullet points,” Lehman said. “It's to contribute positively to the quality of life in our community; provide a growing annual financial contributions to nonprofits in our region; promoting volunteerism -- which last year we had a record number of volunteers, I think we're about 2,393; provide a positive economic impact to the community and then contribute to a more inclusive community and attract a diverse population to the game of golf.” The generosity of the QC was reflected even in the height of the pandemic, in 2020, when there was no tournament, but people still contributed $12.2 million to the JDC. “Then we saw growth in 2021 from the pandemic number, but we were still in very uncertain times,” Lehman said. “Even though people are struggling to put groceries in their pantry and refrigerator and food on the table, people are still supporting their favorite nonprofits.” Birdies is what drives the JDC staff, even more than putting the tournament on, he noted. “The athletic contest and tournament week is a blast and we should all take a ton of pride in having a professional sporting event here,” Lehman said. “But when we give charity money away in October, that's why our staff gets up and goes to work every day. (birdiesforcharity.com) “None of us in this office are John Deere employees, but they trust us with presenting a John Deere experience for the community, for guests from around the Midwest who are coming here,” he said. “The concerts have certainly changed the attendance numbers. It's just so important because all these nonprofits, whether they're getting $2,500 or they're getting $800,000 whatever that number is to that organization, is important to them.” Last year was the first time that the Classic offered post-play Concerts on the Course, on Saturday and Sunday, featuring Darius Rucker and Blake Shelton. This year, Counting Crows will perform Saturday, July 6, and Lainey Wilson on Sunday, July 7, both concerts starting at 5:45 p.m. Boosting the Bonus Fund The Birdies goal this year is $14.25 million, and they will determine the amount of 2024 bonus to nonprofits (at least 5 percent) in September, Lehman said. “We're always striving to do better than we did the year before,” he said. “Of the 481 nonprofits that were active last year, Micaela and Anika and our small team is in contact with those groups. We want to make sure that we're doing everything that we can to maximize their benefit.” Micaela Booth is the Birdies director, and since this past January, Anika Martin is the first full-time employee to focus on growing the Birdies Bonus Fund. Anika Martin at the John Deere Classic tournament office, on Coaltown Road in East Moline (photo by Jonathan Turner). “As the tournament has grown, we needed her to focus on selling our assets of tournament week, whether it be marketing or advertising or corporate hospitality,” Lehman said. “She’s a trained development person who’s had a long history of success here in the Quad Cities and is no stranger to the John Deere Classic. It's all about focusing positive momentum and growth on the Bonus Fund side so we can continue to maximize the impact on these nonprofits.” Last year, JDC raised a record $14,102,833 through its Birdies for Charity program and paid a 7.5% bonus to all participating charities. That fund is seeded each year by a $325,000 donation by John Deere. Moline-based Deere also underwrites all Birdies administrative costs, to ensure that participating charities receive 100% of all donations and pledges designated to their organization. Every year, the PGA gives the most engaged community award and JDC has won it eight times, including in December 2023. Patrick Cantlay, the No. 9 golfer in the world, is among the players committed to this summer's JDC, July 1-7, 2024, at TPC Deere Run, Silvis. Factors taken into consideration for “Most Engaged Community” include spectator attendance, volunteer support and how well the community is weaved into the overall flavor of the tournament. Next month, the JDC is excited to welcome Patrick Cantlay, who’s ranked the 9th top golfer in the world, has nabbed eight PGA Tour wins and over $45 million in PGA Tour winnings over his career. For more information on the tournament, click HERE.
	Niabi Zoo joins nationwide pilot program to reduce wildlife trafficking Niabi Zoo is just one of 24 zoos across the nation to be a part of the new Wildlife Confiscations Network, which helps care for and house smuggled animals.
	Iowa business, political officials respond to recent John Deere layoffs in the state The President of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry said the recently announced changes are likely the result of trade and supply chain issues.
	Tasty trivia and deals for Pizza Hut's Hut Day! June 5 is Hut Day, and to celebrate, we found some tasty trivia about Pizza Hut! 🍕 Pizza Hut was founded by brothers Dan and Frank Carney, still in college, when they borrowed $600 from their mother in 1958 to open a pizza place while attending Wichita State University. 🍕 Before the red roof logo was adopted in 1969, Pizza Hut had a cartoon mascot, Pizza Pete, who also served as its logo. Pizza Pete was still used in the 1970s on bags, cups, and advertisements, but was eventually phased out. 🍕 Pizza Hut once offered a limited-edition perfume that smelled like "fresh dough with a bit of spice." The packaging for the perfume, originally only available through promotional contests, looked like mini pizza boxes. A few surfaced on eBay for as much as $495. 🍕 A hot item in the 1970s were Pizza Hut Easy-Bake ovens. Kids could use the toy to bake tiny Pizza Hut pizzas under a 60-watt light bulb. 🍕 Pizza Hut used star power in their commercials. Celebrities like Elijah Wood, then 11, Ringo Starr, the Monkees and former Soviet statesman Mikhail Gorbachev all appeared in Pizza Hut ads. 🍕 Pizza Hut's Book It! program is 40! Kicked off in 1984, the program encouraged kids to read by rewarding them with "praise, recognition and pizza." 🍕 Pizza Hut was early to online ordering. In 1994, Pizza Hut and The Santa Cruz Operation created PizzaNet, a then-unique program allowing computer users to place orders via the internet. 🍕 Pizza Hut pizza has been to space! In 2001, Pizza Hut became the first company to deliver pizza into space. The pizza recipe had to undergo "rigorous stabilized thermal conditions" to ensure it would be edible when it got to the International Space Station. 🍕 Pizza Hut accounts for 3% of U.S. cheese production. The company uses over 300 million pounds of cheese each year and is one of the largest cheese buyers in the world. To make that much cheese, 170,000 cows are used to produce an estimated 300 billion gallons of milk. To celebrate Hut Day, Pizza Hut locations owned and operated by Flynn Group LP (FG) are offering a one-day-only BOGO deal exclusively on Wednesday, June 5. Guests who purchase any large menu-priced pizza will receive a large one-topping pizza for free by using the promo code FREEPIZZA. Hungry for more about Pizza Hut? Click here.
	Sheriff after K9 dies: Spike, we’ll take the watch from here The Scott County Sheriff’s Office said that retired K9 Officer Spike was laid to rest Wednesday by his handler.
	Therapy dogs visit Davenport nursing home The canines brought smiles to seniors at The Ivy.
	Woman in custody for trying to bite, kick Davenport officer A 43-year-old Davenport woman was in custody Wednesday after police allege she tried to bit an officer, according to court records. Lisa Dahnke faces a felony charge of possession of contraband in a correctional institution and serious misdemeanor charges of assault on persons in certain occupations and possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine - first offense, a news release says. Lisa Dahnke (Scott County Jail) Shortly before 11 a.m. Tuesday, Davenport Police responded to the 100 block of East 3rd Street for a disturbance, according to arrest affidavits, which say Dahnke "did knowingly obstruct the duty of a police officer by ignoring the lawful command of a fully uniformed, visibly marked Davenport Police Officer to stay back from the room Officers were in." Dahnke was told three times to stay back, but did not, affidavits say, and "did assault a fully uniformed, visibly marked Davenport Police Officer ... kicking an Officer in the leg, and later trying to bite an Officer on the arm." Dahnke "possessed a total amount of 6.1 grams of methamphetamine on her person/in her purse," affidavits show, saying she "knowingly (brought) 5.55 grams of methamphetamine into the Scott County Jail. The methamphetamine was in a small plastic bag concealed inside her bra." Dahnke was being held Wednesday on $7,000 in Scott County Jail, and is set for a preliminary hearing June 14 in Scott County Court.
	Trial date set for former Dubuque priest accused of sexual abuse The trial for the former Dubuque priest accused of sexually abusing altar boys in the 1980′s is set for July 30.

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Wednesday, June 5th, 2024