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

Saturday, June 8th, 2024
	New cannabis dispensary, growing facility coming to Kewanee Kewanee City Council approved two permits last month for HVN Capital, LLC to open a cannabis dispensary shop and build a growing facility.
	Local group calls for an end to racial inequality As the 4-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death draws near, one group is committed to calling for an end to racial inequality. On Saturday, Progressive Action for Common Good (PACG), a group that aims to educate and engage citizens to work for the common good of all, according to their website, gathered along an intersection near Southpark mall in Moline. “We want to make sure that people keep in their minds what happened on that day; it’s a dialogue that needs to be kept going,” PACG Vice President Glenda Guster said. “It’s something that just is usually put in the back, nobody talks about it. We want to keep conversation going about what happened.” Members of PACG come together at the same corner every Saturday with signs that ask drivers to "honk for equality". They hope to keep the memories and the conversation alive while also sharing the values of the group with the community.
	Family Fun Day at Longview Park SAL community services hosted a Family Fun Day at Longview Park shelter in Rock Island on Saturday. Everyone in the Quad Cities was invited for games, snacks and a fun Saturday afternoon. The Rock Island Library and Family Resources were among the organizations who were part of the event. Longview Park, Rock Island. This is an annual event organized with the goal of engagement, recruitment and community outreach. While this event is mainly aimed at family bonding, it also functions to connect families with the resources around them. “This event just doubles as a recruitment event and an engagement event for families,” Family and Community Engagement spokesperson Rosie Zbaracki said. “So, our families are here, they come and they have little activities that they can do to kind of build some bonding time between the families and the children.” While this is one of the larger events put together by SAL community services, with up to 100 people showing up to participate, the organization also puts on other events throughout the year. Those events are hosted in collaboration with various other organizations in the community.
	Davenport wears orange for gun violence About a dozen people gathered at Vander Veer Park in Davenport today to raise awareness about gun violence. Vander Veer Park (File photo) The Wear Orange campaign started as a tribute to Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old girl who was shot and killed in Chicago just two weeks after she performed at President Obama’s inauguration. Saturday's event at Vander Veer park honored those effected by gun violence-- whether through violent crime or suicide. “About three in five Americans have been touched by gun violence in some way shape or form,” Quad Cities Moms Demand Action member Kaleigh Rogers said. “That could be having survived an incident of gun violence or intimate partner violence involving suicide by gun.” The Quad Cities Moms Demand Action group is also focused on gun legislation, particularly red flag laws. These laws allow for guns to be temporarily taken from people who are a risk to themselves or others. Illinois currently has this type of law, but Iowa does not.
	Sacred Heart, Moline, holds reunion Sacred Heart Church in Moline is planning its inaugural Sacred Heart Moline Church Reunion from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, June 22, at the Sacred Heart Moline campus, 1400 16th Ave., Moline, according to a news release. The new Gathering Center at Sacred Heart Church, Moline. Among the activities will be a 50/50, silent auction, raffle, and games. Food from the Sacred Heart Historical Cookbook, which will be available for sale that day, will be featured. Tickets are $10 each, $30 for a family of four or more. Children three and younger will be admitted free. The tickets will be available after Masses prior to the event and at the door. Any money raised from this event go to pay down the principle of the capital campaign debt.
	BankORION expands operations to East Moline BankORION will celebrate its expansion to a new operations facility at 11 a.m. Friday, June 14, at 4700 Kennedy Drive in East Moline, a news release says. Refreshments will be provided. “Our customer base has grown over the past several years and the manner in which we need to serve our customers and employees has also evolved," said Matthew P. Bollinger, president and CEO of BankORION. "The new facility is equipped with additional technology and offers expanded space, enabling us to improve our efficiency and continue delivering exceptional service to our customers." The 11,000 square-foot commercial property was built in 1993 with two levels and was the former office of McClure Engineering Associates, Inc. The remodel of the facility was led by Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities from Moline. BankORION has seven full-service branches including Orion, Cambridge, Moline, Aledo and Annawan in Illinois as well as Bettendorf. For more information, visit here.
	Kinna's House of Love presents Davenport praise festival Kinna's House of Love Inc. will present a praise festival from 5-9 p.m. Saturday, June 22, at LeClaire Park and band shell, 400 Beiderbecke Drive, Davenport. Kinna Hodges and Kossi Liassidji will be the hosts. Special guests will include Milton Calvin, Teleia Holder, Reg, Pastor Smith, Unbroken Ministry and the Olivet Male Chorus. For a vendor link and more information, visit here or call 563-200-8064.
	Deloitte Davenport celebrates 25th Impact Day by helping Moline elementary Deloitte employees gave a helping hand to Washington Elementary School.
	QC Flood Resiliency Alliance to meet in Riverdale The Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance will meet at 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16, at Riverdale City Hall Community Room, 110 Manor Drive, Riverdale, a news release says. The Mississippi River starts to lap over the edge at LeClaire Park in Davenport on April 20, 2023. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) City/county/village leaders and administrators; emergency management personnel, floodplain managers, public works personnel, local and state-level elected officials, residents and property owners in the region are welcome. Admission is free. The Alliance is open to the public and is a forum for timely and educational information on flood prevention, mitigation, flood insurance and floodplain management. For more information, contact Kathy Wine, River Action, at 563-322-2969 or kwine@riveraction.org About the Alliance At River Action’s October 2018 Upper Mississippi River Conference, a workshop launched a new initiative for the greater Quad City region within the Mississippi River watershed. The Quad Cities Flood Resiliency Alliance kicked off with many local river cities, towns and villages showing a keen interest in flood prevention, flood damage mitigation, and floodplain restoration.
	Muscatine makes progress on lagoon project Muscatine City Council on Thursday unanimously awarded a $442,172 contract for the Weed Park Lagoon Project to Sulzco LLC.
	Muscatine softball coach reaches 500th win “It feels good. It’s been a long road," Steve Hopkins said.
	Quad-City students earn college, business-sponsored scholarships From aerospace engineering to skilled trades, more Quad-City students have earned scholarships toward their various post-secondary paths.
	Izaak Walton League, USFWS celebrate 100 years of Upper Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Refuge The 261-mile Mississippi River refuge was established after a passionate bass fisherman learned of a plan to drain backwaters of the upper Mississippi River and undertook a national grassroots campaign.
	Eldridge finishes utility investigation, refers portions of case to law enforcement Eldridge has wrapped up its investigation into allegations of misconduct by utility board members and employees. Some of the results were referred to unspecified law enforcement agencies.
	Man accused of 2020 Davenport homicide sentenced Authorities accused Sherral J. Tolbert, now 22, of Davenport, of shooting Lavonta Baker, 19, to death on Oct. 25, 2020.
	Quad-Cities business openings: AWAKE Coffee, WOW Aesthetics, BankORION In this week's business news: BankORION plans a new location, AWAKE Coffee continues its expansion and WOW Aesthetics opens.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, June 8, 2024 Patricia “Patti” J. Cunningham, 67, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away Thursday, June 6, 2024. Arrangements are pending at the Runge Mortuary.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, June 8, 2024 Robert Foust, 74, of Rock Island, Illinois, passed away Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at Silver Cross Friendship Manor, Rock Island, Illinois. Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, Moline.
Friday, June 7th, 2024
	New cannabis dispensary and growing facility is on its way to Kewanee after city council approves permits for both projects Kewanee City Council approved two permits last month for HVN Capital, LLC to open a cannabis dispensary shop and build a growing facility.
	Applications open for pre-apprenticeship program in Illinois The program is run through Illinois Works and the American Job Center.
	Mount Carroll Library hosting celebration Saturday after multi-million dollar expansion project After over 12 years of planning, the library now has 7,200 square feet of new space. The celebration is on June 8 at 12:30 p.m.
	Century-old Japanese garden in Muscatine wins preservation award Built in the 1930s, the city's art center spent years planning and reviving the garden to uphold the legacy of a historic community figure.
	1 dead, 1 injured after Friday morning Galesburg shooting One person is dead and another is injured after a shooting Friday morning.
	Rock Island County State's Attorney says officers 'were justified' in fatal East Moline shooting On May 17, East Moline police shot 80-year-old Eugene Mewes, who was armed. Mewes later died on May 20 from his injuries.
	Univ. of Iowa names new gymnastics head coach following Larissa Libby’s resignation The University of Iowa has named Jen Llewellyn the next head coach of the university’s gymnastics program.
	Great River Brewery back in business with grand re-opening celebration Friday was a big day in downtown Davenport as Great River Brewery held a grand re-opening ceremony after being closed for more than five years.
	SAL Community Services holds Family Fun Festival in Rock Island The community is invited to SAL Community Services’ Family Fun Festival on Saturday, June 8, a news release says. The event is open to all families, especially those with children under the age of 4 from Rock Island, Henry, and Mercer counties. “SAL exists to meet some of the most urgent needs for families from the Quad Cities to central Illinois,” said Marcy Mendenhall, president and CEO of SAL Community Services. “Our Family Fun Festival is an opportunity for families to learn more about the wide range of resources they can access through SAL.” SAL staff will be on hand to talk with parents about available programs and child care options. Children and families will enjoy a fun day at the park with food, family fun activities, and giveaways. Additional community partners will also be a part of this fun-filled day. The Family Fun Festival will be held at the Longview Park shelter, 1300 17th St., Rock Island, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. ABOUT SAL COMMUNITY SERVICES SAL Community Services provides Support, Advocacy, and Learning in communities - from childhood to adulthood. Its mission is to strengthen children, families, and individuals to build and enhance thriving communities.
	GRAPHIC CONTENT: Body cam footage released in East Moline police shooting News 8 received body cam video from a May 17 incident where two East Moline police officers shot an armed man. He later died from his injuries.
	New agreement guarantees Rivermont Collegiate students in good standing admission to Augustana College Qualifying students must complete two years in good standing at Rivermont and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.
	How a bike camp in East Moline is helping kids shine, be more independent The camp, put on by the Children's Therapy Center of the Quad Cities, teaches kids with disabilities how to ride a bicycle.
	JUSTIFIED: State's attorney rules on deadly East Moline officer-involved shooting State's Attorney Dora Villarreal has determined East Moline Police were justified in their use of deadly force in a shooting that killed 80-year-old Eugene Mewes last month. May 16 incident It started May 16 when police were called to the Hometown Harbor apartments for an assault. An employee at the complex said the man, identified as Eugene Mewes, 80, had assaulted him after an altercation about maintenance work that was done at Mewes’ residence. (OurQuadCities.com) Mewes became angry and began to choke the employee, according to Villareal’s report, “which ultimately caused Mewes to fall from his motorized scooter," the report says. "Both the employee and Mewes were transported for medical treatment and discharged the same day.” May 17 incident About 2:15 p.m. May 17, East Moline officers were dispatched to the same area for a report of a man with a gun. The same employee said Mewes shot at him but missed. The employee said he jumped on a golf cart and was able to avoid being shot. On video, Officer Garrett Kistner is then seen driving forward and coming up behind a sidewalk where Mewes was sitting on a motorized scooter. Kistner parked northwest of the scooter and proceeded to walk up slowly toward him. At 2:25 p.m. Lt. Dustin Edkin arrived as Mewes was holding a semi-automatic pistol under his chin. Mewes was sitting across from the Hometown Harbor Community Room Building and near the East Moline Christian School, where students were playing outside, according to the report. Officers told Mewes to drop the gun, but he refused and told officers to shoot him, saying he had his finger on the gun’s trigger. Both officers fired and hit Mewes a total of four times.The report says they tried to helped Mewes as they waited for paramedics. Mewes died from his injuries three days later. The scene was secured by officers from the East Moline Police Department and the Integrity Task Force. Edkin and Kistner’s body-worn cameras and squad cameras were collected as evidence. Members of the Integrity Task Force completed a neighborhood canvass and interviewed potential witnesses, including the property manager and a teacher from East Moline Christian. May 22 On May 22, it was confirmed that both officers tested negative for the presence of drugs and alcohol. The Crime Scene Investigation by ITF was able to verify that Edkin fired three shots and Kistner fired two shots. An additional shell casing was also found about 20 feet from where Mewes was positioned when he confronted the employee earlier. An initial ballistics review shows that the casing came from the gun Mewes was holding. The report says the use of deadly force was necessary to protect the officers themselves and their partners from a reasonable belief of imminent death or great bodily harm. “An objectively reasonable officer in the same situation would perceive that death or great bodily harm was imminent and that deadly force was necessary,” the report shows. The circumstances The circumstances known to the officers at the time of the event also support their decision to use deadly force: Officers knew that Mewes had a weapon. Officers were aware that Mewes had just shot toward another person before their arrival. Mewes refused to drop the weapon and stated his finger was on the trigger - leading to a reasonable inference that he would fire the gun again, imminently. Mewes made suicidal statements leading to a reasonable inference that he may shoot at an officer to provoke them into shooting. Mewes was outside on a public street in the middle of the day, near a community room and a schoolyard. After Edkin’s first shot hit the scooter, Mewes pointed his gun toward Kistner.
	Cops ‘N Kids Community Book Drive wraps up Friday Cops N’ Kids Community Book Drive happening Friday
	Crews respond to Rapids City house fire, Red Cross assisting family Crews responded to a house fire Friday night. The Red Cross is now assisting the family.
	Moline district middle schools will have soccer programs next school year Both boys and girls at Wilson and John Deere middle schools will be able to participate.
	Deloitte Davenport celebrates 25th Impact Day by helping Davenport elementary Deloitte employees gave a helping hand to Washington Elementary School.
	One man wounded in Davenport shooting early Friday A man was wounded in a shooting in a Davenport alley early Friday, police said.
	Longtime Moline detective retires A longtime Moline police officer who focused a lot of his time catching online child predators is retiring. Detective Jeremy McAuliffe began as a patrol officer for the Moline Police Department 28 years ago. He joined the Criminal Investigations Division, where he helped form a computer forensics laboratory. McAuliffe went on to be a task force officer for the U. S. Secret Service, which honored him Friday with an award for all his hard work. McAuliffe also supported the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. He examined computers, reviewed images and connected IP addresses.
	32nd annual Aledo Rhubarb Festival underway Thousands of people descend on the town of 3,600 every year for the event.
	How an East Moline bike camp is helping kids shine, be more independent The Children's Therapy Center's "I Can Shine" bike camp teaches kids with disabilities how to ride a bicycle.
	Putnam Museum and Science Center names new CEO Cindy Diehl Yang joins the museum and science center next month.
	Made in the QCA: Monmouth family in printing business for a century Bus Kellogg is the third generation in his family to work at Kellogg Printing, Monmouth's only printing company.
	New agreement guarantees Rivermont Collegiate students in good standing admission to Augustana Students eligible under the new agreement must be in good standing and have at least a 3.0 GPA.
	Rock Island County State's Attorney says officers 'were justified' in fatal East Moline shooting On May 17, East Moline police shot 80-year-old Eugene Mewes, who was armed. Mewes later died on May 20 from his injuries.
	Made in the QCA: Monmouth family in printing business for a century Bus Kellogg is the third generation in his family to work at Kellogg Printing, Monmouth's only printing company.
	Officials say officer-involved shooting of East Moline man is justified The officer-involved shooting of Eugene Mewes is justified. That's according to an opinion released Friday evening by Rock Island County State's Attorney Dora Villarreal.
	Inside Iowa Politics: Has anyone been arrested for death threats against Iowa Congresswoman last year? U.S. Capitol Police issue brief statement regarding death threats against Iowa Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks.
	Hundreds of books collected at Cops ‘N Kids Community Book Drive at KWQC station KWQC joined Together Making a Better Community and the Davenport Police Department, to hold a Cops ‘N’ Kids Community Book Drive Friday at the TV6 studio.
	Augustana College and Rivermont Collegiate sign a guaranteed admissions agreement Students who do well at a local college preparatory school will now have guaranteed admission to Augustana College once they graduate.
	Opinion of the Rock Island County state’s attorney: East Moline police officers’ use of deadly force is justified A statement regarding the opinion of the Rock Island County state’s attorney was released regarding an officer involved shooting on May 17 that happened in East Moline at Hometown Harbor Apartment Complex when police said they responded to a report of a person with a gun.
	Rock Island County State's Attorney: East Moline officers justified in using deadly force The Rock Island County State's Attorney determined the two East Moline officers who shot an armed man on May 17 were justified in doing so.
	Man shot and wounded in Davenport early Friday morning Police say the shooting happened in the 800 block of West 3rd Street around 2 a.m. Friday morning. A victim was transported to a local hospital.
	WQAD editor Jacob Mundy releasing his book 'Profound Light' on June 14 Mundy's book is a memoir about the adversities and trauma he overcame as a child.
	1 dead, another injured after shooting in Galesburg Friday Galesburg Police had asked the public to avoid the 900 block of E. South Street Friday morning due to a shooting.
	All About 8: Meet Lindsey Voss, a self-taught crocheter sharing her craft with the community Lindsey Voss, or Linn, works as an editor on Good Morning Quad Cities and as a digital content producer at WQAD.
	Pedestrian struck by train in Clinton A pedestrian was struck by a train this morning in Clinton. On June 7, 2024 at 11:46 a.m., the Clinton Fire Department was dispatched to a reported pedestrian struck by a train in the 300 block of North 2nd Street, according to a Friday release. A deputy in the area for a special event was advised by a train crew member that the train had struck a person in this area. A single victim was located lying near the railroad tracks as reported. First responders began rendering aid as fire personnel were arriving. Clinton Fire Department paramedics arrived with the patient, rendered care, and provided transport to Mercy One in Clinton. Patient condition is unavailable at the time of this report, the release said. The cause is under investigation. No other information is available at this time. Crews were assisted on scene by the Clinton Police, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, and Clinton County Communications.
	Help raise money for dog park improvements at Clinton Furry Scurry event You can take your four-legged friend for a walk and help raise money for a good cause at the Clinton Furry Scurry.
	ISP finishes investigation into Macomb shooting where police killed child, armed suspect In March, police shot and killed a 4-year-old boy and an armed suspect, who was using the child as a human shield. The case now heads to the county state's attorney.
	Salvation Army delivers donuts to Quad Cities first responders In a tradition dating back to World War I, Salvation Army volunteers delivered donuts to Quad Cities first responders on National Donut Day.
	One injured in Clinton structure fire One patient was treated and transported to Mercy One-Clinton for minor injuries after a Clinton structure fire Friday morning, according to a news release. The fire started shortly after 10 a.m. Friday on the 1300 block of 23rd Avenue North. (cityofclintoniowa.us) Initial reports were of a vehicle on fire inside an attached garage. Crews reported heavy fire on an attached garage of a single-family home. Crews made an aggressive initial attack on the fire and had the main body of the fire knocked down within minutes. Crews, who evacuated the house and continued suppression efforts, remained on the scene for about an hour and a half, checking for hot spots and ensuring the fire was completely out. The fire was contained to the garage portion of the residence and several vehicles within the garage. The cause is under investigation. Crews were assisted at the scene by the Clinton Police Department, the Camanche Fire Department, Alliant Energy, and Clinton County Communications.
	Former Iowa women’s basketball recruit Ava Jones medically retires The University of Iowa says former women’s basketball recruit Ava Jones will medically retire, but she will remain on scholarship.
	Food Truck Fight setting up at The Rust Belt this year A dozen food trucks will set up in East Moline for the annual Food Truck Fight.
	Best donut shops in the Quad Cities region, according to reviews on Google In honor of National Donut Day, News 8 is highlighting some of the best donut spots in the Quad Cities region, as determined by reviews and ratings on Google.
	Galesburg shooting leaves one dead Galesburg Police are investigating a shooting that took place this morning, Friday, June 7, leaving one person dead and one injured. At approximately 11:12 a.m., the Galesburg Police Department responded to the 900 block of E. South Street in reference to shots being fired. Upon arrival, a gunshot victim was located inside the residence at 949 E. South Street. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene with an apparent gunshot wound, police said Friday. A few minutes later, the Galesburg Police Department learned that a second gunshot victim was transported to OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg by an unknown person. The second gunshot victim was subsequently transported to OSF St. Francis to be treated, a department release said Friday. This investigation is ongoing, and at this time, the names of the victims are not being released. This appears to be an isolated incident and there are no identifiable threats to the general public. Anyone with information should contact the Galesburg Police Department at 309-343-9151, or the Galesburg Area Crime Stoppers at 309-344-0044. Tips can also be left using the P3 mobile app or by clicking on the submit a tip on the Galesburg Police Department Facebook page. The Galesburg Police Department was assisted by the Knox County Sheriff’s Department and the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit.
	ISP concludes Macomb domestic incident in which police fatally shot 4-year-old, armed suspect In March, police shot and killed a 4-year-old boy and an armed suspect, who was using the child as a human shield. The case now heads to the county state's attorney.
	Rock Falls man arrested on child pornography charges A Rock Falls man was arrested for child pornography charges. According to a release from the Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 2, on June 6, after an extensive investigation into the dissemination of child pornography via a computer program, Illinois State Police agents executed a search warrant at a residence in the 1400 block of Avenue A in Rock Falls and arrested Adam Davis, 39, for five counts of dissemination of child pornography (Class X felony). Davis was taken into custody and transported to the Whiteside County Jail. Adam Davis (Illinois State Police) The Illinois State Police provides resources to report crimes against children. Anonymous tips of child pornography can also be reported through the National Center for Missing and ExploitedChildren's (NCMEC) cyber tip line. To keep kids safe online, learn more here and here. For resources for survivors of sexual abuse, click here.
	Clinton joins record number of QC public sculptures After its first-ever national call for public sculpture entries, Quad City Arts is coordinating placement of a record 30 outdoor sculptures throughout the region. Since 2002, Quad City Arts has been a pivotal force in shaping the cultural and urban landscape of the area through the public sculpture program, including six in the city of Clinton for the first time. “Windwave II” by Bill McGrath (Batavia, Ill.), being installed in Riverview Drive, Clinton. "The Quad City Arts Public Sculpture Program not only invigorates the community by introducing fresh perspectives but also promotes a dynamic urban landscape,” executive director Kevin Maynard said recently. “Our recent Arts and Economic Prosperity Study highlights that over 80% of community members view art, including our public sculpture program, as a 'positive experience in a troubled world.' We are thrilled to see this program supported at record levels by our local municipalities, showcasing the profound impact of the arts in our community,” he said. Sculptures, chosen by committees from each city or venue, are leased for one year from talented sculptors across the nation. Dawn Wohlford-Metallo, visual arts director for Quad City Arts, said Friday that since the program increased the number of sculptures needed, the call for entries expanded nationwide – compared to the traditional Midwest call, within a 350-mile radius. They got over 100 submissions, and of the 30 to be placed (mostly next week), by June 25, most are from artists in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Missouri, but also include Washington State, Maryland, Colorado and North Carolina. "Full Sail II" by John Kamrath (St. Paul, Minn.) on Riverview Drive in Clinton. The city of Clinton, Iowa approached QC Arts about taking part in the program, which is a true partnership among their parks and recreation, public works, and library staffs, Wohlford-Metallo said. “They went all in -- four are right on the riverfront, and two are near the riverfront,” she said. The Clinton sculptures will be at: “Point” by Bill McGrath (Batavia, IL), Riverview Drive “Windwave II” by Bill McGrath (Batavia, IL), Riverview Drive “Breezin' Series #3” by Jim Wolnosky (Bath, MI), Riverview Drive (near city pool) “Full Sail II” by John Kamrath (St. Paul, MN), Riverview Drive “Opportunity Doors” by Matt Moyer (Columbia, MO), 611 S. 3rd St. (City Hall parking lot) “Enchantment of Reading” by James Haire (Ft. Collins, CO), 306 8th Ave. S. (Public Library) “This year, Moline is trying something new. Five of the sculptures are on 5thAvenue, to create a sculpture walk,” Wohlford-Metallo said Friday, noting a new sculpture at the KONE Building is a repeat site. Many sites rotate different sculptures each year, and typically one city decides to purchase one to keep permanently, though none did in 2023, she said. "Action Reaction" by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, Mo.) at the KONE Building, north of River Drive off 17th St., Moline (photo by Jonathan Turner). The Moline sculptures (chosen by the Moline Public Art Commission) are: “Action Reaction” by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, MO), Kone Building, 1 Montgomery Drive “Air Garden” by Steven Buduo (St. Louis, MO), 14th St. and 5th Ave. “Portal to Metamorphosis II” by Glory Hartsfield (Stella, MO), 1605 5th Ave. “Whistlepig” by Steve Feren (Fitchburg, WI), 1801 5th Ave. “Helicopter Seeds” by Brian Ferriby (Empire, MI), Heritage Place Plaza “Florette II” by Sam Spiczka (Apex, N.C.), 504 17th St. The most exciting part of the process is watching a Hampton Crane operator use their boom to lift a sculpture from an artist’s vehicle, hoist it high in the air, and skillfully bring it down gently onto a concrete pad, as directed by the artist who created it, Quad City Arts said. The artist will then drill holes into the concrete and secure the sculpture. (Hampton Cranes generously donates their services, which were not needed in Clinton). The sculpture "High Steppin'" by Andrew Arvanetes (on sale for $16,750) has been on display the past year at Rock Island's 18th Avenue and 17th Street, due to replaced this month with another leased sculpture (photo by Jonathan Turner). Rock Island is introducing sculptures to beautify two parks and two libraries., while Bettendorf focuses on drawing attention to local businesses and public spaces. Downtown Davenport enriches its collection with new pieces along 2nd Street, and the city of Clinton celebrates its new participation with wind-themed sculptures along the Mississippi River. The DeWitt Fine Arts Foundation and the DeWitt Community Library are partnering to create a sculpture garden, featuring two sculptures this year. The other locations are: Rock Island (Rock Island Public Art Commission): “Caution Pump” by Matt Moyer (Columbia, MO), Five Points, 18th Ave. and 17th Street “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” by Anna Modeland (Somers, IA), Southwest Branch Library: 9010 Ridgewood Rd. “Bear” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI), Longview Park, 1300 17th Street “Wayward Moose” by Steve Feren (Fitchburg, WI), Downtown Public Library, 401 19th St.Bettendorf (City of Bettendorf, Geifman Properties): “Balancing Act” by John Adduci (Chicago, IL), Veteran’s Memorial Park entrance “Writing Figure” by V. Skip Willits (Camanche, IA), Faye’s Field. 2850 Learning Campus Dr. “Colossus” by Andrew Arvanetes (Kankakee, IL), Waterfront Convention Center, 2021 State St. “Rotating Through the Universe” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI), Build to Suit (River’s Edge Business Park) 1805 State St. "Windblown” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA, Community Center lawn, 2204 Grant Street “The Catch” by Anna Modeland (Somers, IA), Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. (leased for the 2nd year) “Twist” by Michael Young (Chicago), Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. (leased for the second year, in new location) “Bench, Please” by Ben Pierce (Cape Girardeau, MO), Geifman First Equity, 2172 56th Ave. W. Davenport (The Downtown Davenport Partnership): “Oxbow” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA). Parking Ramp on W. 2nd Street. “The Feather” by Kirk Seese (Lutherville, MD). Current Hotel, entrance. 2nd & Main. “Collaborative Communication” by Paul Bobrowitz (Colgate, WI). 129 Main St., Common Chord Courtyard “We're Here” by Chris Wubbena (Jackson, MO), Figge Art Museum Plaza, 225 W. Second St. “Fowl Play” by Tim Adams (Webster City, IA), RiverCenter, east entrance, 2nd St. DeWitt Community Library (DeWitt Fine Arts Foundation) “Agua Dorada” by Peter Gray (Chicago, IL) “Learning to Fly” by Dale Compton (Chehalis, Washington) These artworks are available for purchase by individuals, businesses, or cities for permanent installation post-June 2025. All sculptures, both newly installed and those purchased from past exhibits, can be explored (after all have been installed) on the Quad City Arts Public Sculpture site.Public sculptures will also be updated on the Visit Quad Cities Public Art Trail website. QC Arts encourages everyone to share their experiences and interactions with the sculptures on social media using #QuadCityArts on Instagram or by tagging @QuadCityArts on Facebook.
	Putnam Museum names new CEO Putnam Museum's board named Cindy Diehl Yang the new CEO of the Davenport museum and science center.
	IDOT hosts career fair at the Rock Island Holiday Inn June 11 The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is holding a career fair this Tuesday from 2 to 6 pm at the Holiday Inn in Rock Island.
	82-year-old woman dies in crash in Knox County The Knox County Sheriff’s Office said an 82-year-old woman from Wataga, Illinois, was eastbound on U.S. 34 when the 2017 Buick she was driving went off the road, onto County Highway 9.
	Celebrate Independence Day with East Moline The City of East Moline invites you to enjoy fireworks and family fun at the 2024 Independence Day Celebration! Kick off the holiday Wednesday, July 3 with fireworks at River Bend Park, located at 900 Bend Blvd., East Moline. The kids' zone is 5:45-8:15 p.m., featuring carnival games, face painting, tattoo stations, bubble magic and balloon art. Enjoy live music from For Those About to Yacht from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Start your July 4 at the East Moline Fire Department pancake breakfast from 6:30-11:00 a.m. Run or walk in the Genesis Firecracker Run. Get creative and celebrate the holiday through the eyes of a child with the 4th of July Parade in downtown East Moline. Bands and musical acts like brass bands, jazz bands, marching bands, pep bands are invited, and their entry fees are waived! The parade starts at 1:00 p.m. For parade entry, click here. Entry deadline is June 28. For a listing of events for East Moline's 2024 Independence Day Celebration, click here.
	Man shot and wounded in Davenport early Friday morning Police say the shooting happened in the 800 block of West 3rd Street around 2 a.m. Friday morning. A victim was transported to a local hospital.
	2 injured in Galesburg shooting The public is asked to avoid the area of the 900 block of E. South Street.
	Davenport chiropractor gets 3 years in prison Once he completes his prison sentence, he will serve five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
	1 dead, 2 injured in Knox County crash According to the Knox County Sheriff's Office, the driver of the vehicle, an 82-year-old woman, was killed in the crash.
	A look at “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.” \| Take a Look This week on “Take a Look” with Mark S. Allen: Will Smith and Martin Lawrence are back “Bad Boys: Ride or Die.”
	Clinton, Muscatine projects win preservation prizes Historic preservation projects in Clinton and Muscatine are among eight honored this week by Preservation Iowa, with their annual Preservation at its Best Awards. They honor individuals, organizations, projects, and programs whose work demonstrates a commitment to excellence in historic preservation. The awards were presented as part of the 2024 Preserve Iowa Summit held in Mt. Pleasant this week. Eight historic preservation awards were given out across the state by Preservation Iowa. “Preservation Iowa, a state-wide non-profit advocate for preservation projects in Iowa, honors projects and people who truly demonstrate preservation’s power to change the future of Iowa,” Jim Davies, Preservation Iowa Awards Coordinator, said in a press release. “These awards honor thousands of volunteer hours and over $66 million of investment in Iowa’s economy. Without the combination of private funding, historic tax credits, grant awards, and public dollars, projects like these would not happen. The Wilson Lofts converted the 1914 Wilson Building in Clinton to a mixed-use development featuring 33 apartments. Eight awards were presented in eight categories and ranged throughout Iowa: Clinton, Des Moines, Elkader, Lost Nation, McGregor, Mt. Pleasant, Muscatine, and Sioux City. The two ones in our region are: Public/Non-Profit Structure Award Project: Rehabilitation of Historic Japanese Garden, Muscatine Owner: Muscatine Art Center/City of Muscatine. The only surviving Japanese-style garden predating World War II, installed in 1930, was gifted to the city of Muscatine in 1964. It has been restored to its original historic character after collaborating with Iowa State University and author/garden researcher Beth Cody. The Historic Japanese Garden (installed in 1930) was restored at Muscatine Art Center. Adaptive Reuse/Mixed-Use Award Project: Wilson Lofts, Clinton Owner: Economic Growth Corporation, Rock Island. The Wilson Building, built in 1914, housed professional offices and retail stores in downtown Clinton. It has now been transformed into a dynamic, mixed-use development featuring 33 apartments. For more information about Preservation Iowa, click HERE.
	DeWitte Grischow named to Fourth District Appellate Court Seventh Circuit Judge Raylene DeWitte Grischow has been assigned to the Fourth District Appellate Court of Illinois. According to a release from the Illinois Supreme Court, Grischow earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Illinois State University and Juris Doctor from the Washington University School of Law. She was a partner at Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP from 2002-2018. She served as one of the business development leaders for the firm’s Government Practice Group and as a Network Coordinator for the firm's Women Attorneys Network. Grischow was appointed to the bench as a Resident Circuit Judge in the Seventh Circuit for Sangamon County in 2019 and elected in 2020. She was assigned to the felony division and complex civil litigation and overseeing the Veteran’s Treatment Specialty Court. Raylene DeWitte Grischow (Illinois Supreme Court) Grischow has been affiliated with the Illinois Judge’s Association and the Central Illinois Women's Bar Association and the Sangamon County Bar Association, both of which she served as president. She also served as vice-chairperson of the Illinois Supreme Court Committee on Professional Responsibility. “I want to thank Justice Lisa Holder White and the Supreme Court for having confidence in me and providing me with this amazing opportunity,” Grischow said. “I am excited to embrace this new position and work with the esteemed justices of the Fourth District Appellate Court.” “Judge Raylene DeWitte Grischow will make an outstanding addition to the Appellate Court,” Justice Holder White said. “She is an accomplished, hardworking, community-minded person who maintains the highest ethical standards. I am confident she will thrive at the appellate level.” Grischow is being assigned to fill the vacancy created by the impending retirement of Justice John W. Turner on July 5, 2024. The assignment of Grischow is effective July 8, 2024. The Fourth District Appellate Court is composed of 41 counties in central and western Illinois: Adams, Boone, Brown, Calhoun, Carroll, Cass, Ford, Fulton, Greene, Hancock, Henderson, Henry, Jersey, Jo Daviess, Knox, Lee, Livingston, Logan, Macoupin, Marshall, Mason, McDonough, McLean, Menard, Mercer, Morgan, Ogle, Peoria, Pike, Putnam, Rock Island, Sangamon, Schuyler, Scott, Stark, Stephenson, Tazewell, Warren, Whiteside, Winnebago and Woodford
	Taste of Ethiopia to close at end of month After eight years, the owners of Taste of Ethiopia restaurant will retire and the business will close at the end of this month. Owners George and Genet Moraetes (who are in their 60s) posted this week on Facebook that this is the right time to retire, spend more time with family, friends and do some traveling. Taste of Ethiopia (founded in 2016 at 102 S. Harrison St., Davenport) will permanently close at the end of this June. Taste of Ethiopia is at 102 S. Harrison St., Davenport. “Now the good news is we have found a fantastic restaurant called ‘I Love Fufu’ to take over the location, and they will be adding our most popular Ethiopian dishes to their already amazing menu!” the restaurant posted. “We will be sticking around for a few months to help the new owners during the transition,” the post said. “So please come by and wish us well as we ease into Retirement and meet the new owners Regina and Julius. They are really good people and we hope you will support them as you have supported us since the day we opened.” For more information on Taste of Ethiopia (located next to the Freight House), click HERE.
	Putnam picks new president & CEO The Putnam Museum & Science Center will have a new president & CEO starting after the July 4 holiday. After a national search, the nonprofit’s Board of Trustees Friday announced the appointment of Cindy Diehl Yang as CEO, replacing Rachael Mullins, who retired this past January and served as president/CEO since 2019. Cindy Diehl Yang of Cedar Falls will become the next Putnam president and CEO. Yang has over 20 years of leadership experience in innovative nonprofit organizations and 18 years’ experience in executive leadership, according to a Friday Putnam release. Currently, she is a Vice President at VGM Group of Waterloo, Iowa, and leads the online education division of this national company comprising 22 divisions dedicated to healthcare and corporate business solutions. Before that, Yang was director of the Center for Educational Transformation at the University of Northern Iowa. She has extensive membership and fundraising experience in earlier roles as executive director of the Executives’ Club of Chicago and from 2004-2010 was executive vice president of Associated Colleges of Illinois, where she spearheaded important statewide partnerships between colleges and high need public schools and communities. Her record of success includes earned revenue development, fundraising, membership and program development, strategic planning, and online learning systems. The Putnam Museum and Science Center is at 1717 W. 12th St., Davenport. “Cindy brings a breadth and depth of leadership experience perfectly matched for the Putnam’s needs and vision for the future as the leading center for history, science and hands-on learning in the region,” Putnam board president and search committee co-chair Kerry Smith said in Friday’s release. “Since its founding more than 150 years ago, the Putnam has been about discovery, learning and connecting the sciences and history to the community,” he added. The Putnam Giant Screen Theater. Dana Wilkinson, Putnam trustee and search committee co-chair, said: “Cindy brings many years’ experience developing innovative programming, membership development and exceptional fundraising success. She is an entrepreneur and seasoned nonprofit leader.” Yang has a Master of Arts degree in interdisciplinary arts non-profit leadership from Columbia College in Chicago and throughout her career has served on many community boards, and committees. She has been a member and volunteer of national and regional organizations including the American Alliance of Museums, Hawkeye Community College Foundation Board, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Women in Leadership Mentorship Committee at VGM, and the National College Access Network. Putnam president/CEO Rachael Mullins (who retired in January 2024) at the opening of the new "Common Ground" exhibit on April 14, 2023 (photo by Jonathan Turner). “I am thrilled and honored to be selected to lead the Putnam Museum & Science Center as it enters its next phase of growth and sets strategic direction for the next generation of visitors,” she said Friday. “As I reflect on the importance of the Putnam, I marvel at its long history of service to the community and the thousands of visitors who have been inspired by its programs, collections and exhibitions. Start at Peoria Art Guild “It was my career start as Education and Outreach Director at the Peoria Art Guild many years ago that set me on my path of nonprofit service to communities…and now to lead Putnam is truly exciting,” Yang said. “I am thrilled to welcome Cindy to the Quad Cities cultural community,” said Jen Lewis, executive director of the Quad Cities Cultural Trust and member of the search committee. “The Quad Cities Cultural Trust has invested annually in the Putnam for the last 17 years because we know culture matters here and it always will. Interim co-CEO Kelly Lao (the Putnam vice president for museum experiences) spoke at the museum's annual Power Breakfast May 15, 2024 (photo by Jonathan Turner). “Attracting and retaining talent like Cindy is indicative of the growth our region continues to make. Great things are ahead for the Putnam and QCCT will remain a proud investor,” Lewis added. “I was honored to be a member of the Search Committee, and excited to recommend Cindy as the Putnam’s next CEO.” said Greg Schermer, Putnam trustee. “The Putnam is a great institution and resource for the Quad Cities. There is work to be done to drive this museum and learning center forward in the community, and Cindy is the right executive to realize the potential of this fine institution. The Putnam will do wonderful new programs, outreach, and exhibits for the community under her leadership.” Yang will begin work right after the July 4th holiday. She currently lives in Cedar Falls with her husband and two daughters. The national search was conducted by Daniel Keegan of Museum Leadership Placement.
	One dead after Knox County traffic crash The Knox County Sheriff's Office is investigating a fatal traffic crash. According to a release, on Thursday, June 6 at 5:37 p.m., a 2017 Buick was traveling east on U.S. Highway 34 and left the roadway on the south side of the highway at Knox Highway 9. The 82-year-old driver of Wataga, Ill., died as a result of the crash, and two passengers, 18 and 19, were transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance. Names of the deceased and passengers have not been released, pending next of kin notifications. The incident remains under investigation.
	Aledo Rhubarb Festival kicks off June 7 The annual Rhubarb Festival kicks off June 7 in Aledo. This marks the 32nd year for the event, a celebration of all things rhubarb. Festival-goers can enjoy pie, ice cream and soda pop featuring rhubarb. The festival is filled with vendors and entertainment and runs Friday, June 7 and Saturday June 8. For more information, click here.
	Reforms to Illinois Prisoner Review Board fail Reforms to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board (HB0681) failed to pass after getting unanimous support in May. Lawmakers considered a bill that would make changes like requiring domestic violence training every year for board members and creating a task force. The move came after a man attacked a woman and killed her son in March. this was the day after the board granted him release. The proposal passed unanimously in the House and Senate, but after some changes were made in the Senate, it went back to the House and was never voted on. Gov. JB Pritzker opposed certain aspects of the bill because the proposal's changes would have required live streaming of prisoner review board hearings.
	Quad Cities bakeries are preparing for National Donut Day From Casey's to Taco John's businesses around the Quad Cities are holding sweet deals on donuts on National Donut Day.
	Cops N’ Kids Community Book Drive happening Friday Cops N’ Kids Community Book Drive happening Friday
	Great River Brewery reopening years after 2019 flood forced it to close The Davenport business plans on bringing back its classic brews while offering new drinks and food.
	Musco to celebrate new fabrication facility with ribbon cutting Monday Next week, on Monday, June 10, Musco Lighting will be holding a ribbon cutting and open house event for its new state-of-the-art fabrication facility, located at 1925 Stewart Road.
	Muscatine Junior Police Academy provides students chance to learn about law enforcement This year’s Junior Police Academy class includes a pair of best friends, Natalie Clove and Paige Bedenbender.
	ImpactLife recognizes Muscatine area students through annual award program This week, it was announced that fourteen students from high schools within Muscatine County have received an ImpactLife Student Impact Award in recognition of the work they have done to support the region’s blood supply.
	Davenport considers wetlands, native seeding at Duck Creek Golf Course The city of Davenport is improving water quality through native prairie planting and stormwater wetlands at the Duck Creek Golf Course.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, June 7, 2024 Julia Jane Glockhoff, 68, of Moline, passed away May 30, 2024, at Rush Hospital, Chicago, Illinois. Arrangements are in the care of Wendt Funeral Home, Moline.
	Police: 1 person shot early Friday morning in Davenport According to officers on the scene, a report of shots fired came in at 1:59 a.m. Friday in the 800 block of W. 3rd St. in Davenport.
	Cook review: 'The Watchers' isn't worth watching Its environments are beautiful. Its cast does everything it can to keep the story moving. But “The Watchers” is an incomprehensible mess, an idea that begins with a strong, engaging horror/thriller concept that completely falls apart at the end. This movie’s pedigree has people talking, as well it should. Filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, who is known for his twist endings, is the producer of this film that his daughter Ishana Night Shyamalan directed. The setup has the overall feel of one of the lesser movies directed by the elder Shyamalan – “The Happening,” for example, or “Lady in the Water.” Dakota Fanning stars Mina, an American grieving an earlier tragedy, lives in Dublin and works at a pet shop. She is assigned to deliver a talking conure to someone in Galway. Off Mina goes, talking constantly to the bird as she transports it and its cage in her car. She has a terrifying experience in a wooded part of Ireland: Mina ends up lost in the forest – she can’t even find her car – and still is carrying the bird cage when an older woman named Madeline (Olwen Fouere) tells Mina to get inside a sort of bunker if she wants to live through the night. Inside, Mina talks with Madeline and two other people who share the spartan space they call “The Coop,” where creatures called “The Watchers” watch them from a distance every night. During the day, the little troupe is allowed to move around in the forest – that is, if they abide by numerous rules that annoy Mina, who insists on exploring. I liked the look of forest and also “The Coop,” which has a mirror that makes things more interesting. About halfway through, just as the tension begins to accelerate, the plot begins to disintegrate, until it devolves into a ridiculous finale that will leave you scratching your head and saying "Huh?" Despite the buildup, this one really isn’t worth … watching. 1 star Rated: PG-13 for violence and horror. Running time: 101 minutes. In theaters. Watch the trailer here.
Thursday, June 6th, 2024
	City of Davenport looking for input from flood-prone property owners The City says it will help them identify properties that would be eligible for various kinds of assistance.
	Muscatine softball coach Steve Hopkins celebrates 500 wins Hopkins has been coaching softball for 17 years at Durant and Muscatine.
	2nd annual Pulling Focus film festival celebrating Black filmmakers underway in Davenport The event highlights stories created by Black filmmakers from around the world, including several right here in the Quad Cities.
	Great River Brewery reopening years after 2019 flood forced it to close The Davenport business plans on bringing back its classic brews while offering new drinks and food.
	City of Abingdon receiving $1.5M grant for infrastructure projects It's part of $41 million in grants from the state for storm sewer and water line replacement, or other projects that prevent flooding or support public water needs.
	18th Street entrance to Rock Island Schwiebert Park closing for construction The entrance will be closed starting Monday with work anticipated to wrap up Tuesday.
	Clock Inc. hosts art show at Figge to raise funds for its mission The show featured more than 50 pieces of art donated by local artists, including paintings, pottery and wooden creations.
	Community leaders host 'Flowers on the River' event to honor those impacted by domestic violence The event was hosted by Elephant Club and Family Resources. Attendees placed flowers on the Mississippi River as a symbol of lives lost.

Saturday, June 8th, 2024

Friday, June 7th, 2024

Thursday, June 6th, 2024