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

Tuesday, May 7th, 2024
	Pieta Brown & the Taken and Chastity Brown, May 18 A pair of gifted singer/songwriters who, although unrelated, share a love of folk, indie, and Americana as well as the same surname, Pieta Brown and Chastity Brown co-headline a May 18 concert event at Maquoketa's Codfish Hollow Barn, the former performing alongside her ensemble The Taken, and the latter in support of her 2022 album Sing to the Walls.
	Clinton Fire Department names new chief The city of Clinton on Tuesday announced the appointment of Clinton Fire Department (CFD) Battalion Chief Mike McQuistion to serve as the new Fire Chief. Chief McQuistion will become the 12th overall Fire Chief during the 134-year history of the Clinton Fire Department. Mayor Maddasion will administer the oath of office to McQuistion at the May 28, 2024 Council meeting. As Fire Chief, McQuistion will oversee 50 full-time firefighters, and five Building and Neighborhood Service (BNS) employees, along with an annual department budget of $6.5 million. Chief McQuistion, born and raised in the Clinton area, began his career with CFD as a firefighter paramedic and has risen through the ranks over the last 25 years, serving in a wide range of areas: Engineer, Lieutenant and currently Battalion Chief, according to a city release Tuesday. As Battalion Chief for CFD, McQuistion is responsible for one of the Department’s three shifts. He leads a team on a daily basis through a wide variety of emergent and non-emergent events. McQuistion serves as an incident commander on emergency scenes, assists in training and operations along with the Assistant Chiefs. The Clinton Fire Department will be hosting an open house on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.. at Central Fire Station, 344 3rd Avenue South, to welcome Fire Chief McQuistion.
	Davenport named in new lawsuit over HESCO barrier fail in 2019 A new lawsuit has been filed in Scott County District Court against the City of Davenport, according to court documents. The city, former city administrator Corri Spiegel and HESCO Bastion Inc. are listed as defendants in the lawsuit, which stems from the failure of the HESCO barrier in downtown Davenport on April 30, 2019. In the first count, Timothy J. McDonnell, one of the plaintiffs, says when the barrier fell, his company, Great Bedding Corp., lost all its inventory for sale, business records, banking records and more to floodwaters. He also says he lost the rental value of two commercial buildings, as well as inventory from two fully stocked warehouses and three eBay stores with over 10,000 pieces of inventory. The lawsuit claims Davenport city employees were negligent in correctly installing, repairing and maintaining the HESCO barriers. McDonnell says the loss of business income is over $500,000. In the second count in the lawsuit, Paul Krutzfeldt, owner of Great River Brewery, says he lost all inventory for sale, business and banking records, tax records and more during the flooding after the barrier failed. He estimates his property damages are over $1 million. The suit says Davenport should have known that the installation and placement of the HESCO barriers wouldn’t withstand the pressure and height of the water. One of the attorneys in the case told Our Quad Cities News an amended copy of the suit is expected to be filed later this week.
	“Heartache Tonight: The Music of the Eagles,” May 18 On May 18, a revered group of chart-topping, Grammy-winning rockers will be celebrated when Maquoketa's Ohnward Fine Arts Center presents the six-piece tribute event Heartache Tonight: The Music of the Eagles, an evening of beloved, iconic hits sure to include such chart-toppers as "Hotel California," "Peaceful Easy Feeling," "Best of My Love," "One of These Nights," and, of course, "Heartache Tonight."
	"An Evening with Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives," May 18 Known for his traditional style and eclectic combination of rockabilly, honkytonk, and traditional country music, a legendary talent brings his gifted ensemble to the University of Dubuque's Heritage Center in An Evening with Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, a May 18 event with the artist who has released more than 20 major label albums and scored platinum sales, hit singles, and just about every honor the industry could bestow along the way.
	“The House of Blue Leaves,” May 17 through 26 A four-time Tony Award-winning smash that enjoyed Broadway runs with talents such as Ben Stiller, Edie Falco, Christopher Walken, and Stockard Channing, author John Guare's masterful dark comedy The House of Blue Leaves enjoys a May 17 through 26 run at Moline's Playcrafters Barn Theatre, this wild theatrical ride also lauded by Variety magazine as a stage work that "still sets the bar for smart comic lunacy."
	X.H. Collins, May 22 With her most recent publication lauded by the Historical Novel Society as "well-researched" and "beautiful to behold." local author and native of China X.H. Collins will read from and discuss her 2020 novel Flowing Water, Falling Flowers on May 22, the in-person event held as part of the Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Month celebration at the Davenport Public Library's Eastern Avenue Branch.
	“Georgia O'Keeffe's World: Focused on Nature,” May 22 Delivering a close look at the artist's early years in New York with her husband Alfred Stieglitz, Georgia O'Keeffe's World: Focused on Nature will find Carol Ehlers leading a May 22 program at the Rock Island Public Library's Watts-Midtown Branch, the event's presenter exploring how O'Keefe's close-up and magnified flower, leaf, and landscape paintings forever affected the way we look at nature.
	“Illumination: Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts from the Figge Collection,” May 18 through August 11 With Davenport's Figge Art Museum holding a small yet impressive collection of Medieval and early-Renaissance manuscripts from Europe, the Middle East, and India, a selection of 12 of these works will be on view from May 18 to August 11, as Illumination: Medieval & Renaissance Manuscripts from the Figge Collection offers a cross-cultural examination of hand-painted book illustrations and typography from the 15th and 16th centuries.
	Habitat to dedicate new Davenport home Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities invites the public to celebrate the dedication of Habitat home #135 this Thursday, May 9 at 10 a.m. The house is at 2416 N. Nevada Ave., Davenport, and will be the home for Kodjo, Princia, and their family. Long-time Habitat supporters Craig and Nancy Foster have sponsored this home build in memory of Craig’s parents John and Leah Foster, according to a Tuesday Habitat release. Kodjo and Princia break ground on their Habitat house in Davenport, in June 2023. This particular location is meaningful to them because it is just a few houses down from where John and Leah Foster lived and where Craig grew up. Habitat’s homeownership program is a long-term solution to the affordable housing crisis. When a home build is finished, a Habitat partner family purchases the home with affordable monthly payments on a zero-interest mortgage. Prior to purchasing the home, Habitat partner families follow a structured program with the support of a volunteer mentor. This program includes the completion of a minimum of 250 volunteer hours of sweat equity and mandatory homeownership education classes. The local Habitat for Humanity affiliate has seven more homes in progress and plans to break ground on five new builds later this year. Volunteers aged 16 and up with regular availability are needed. No prior experience or skills are required. You can register for a volunteer orientation HERE.
	Early morning house fire in Moline displaces five Firefighters responded to the 700 block of 43rd Avenue around 5:45 a.m. Tuesday.
	5 people displaced after house fire in Moline The fire occurred at the 700 block of 43rd Avenue Tuesday morning, according to a press release.
	Meet Rock Island's new school superintendent Incoming Rock Island-Milan Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon Williams first met the community this morning at the Rock Island Hy-Vee second-floor community room. The 54-year-old native of Nashville, Tenn., wanted to hold the meet-and-greets (two more are planned this month) because she’s new to the area and wanted to start learning more about the school district. Dr. Sharon Williams, center, met members of the community for an hour Tuesday morning, May 7, at the Rock Island Hy-Vee community room. “It’s important for me to get to different places in the community, to meet a wide swath of people, to understand better how they’re experiencing the schools, what they want me to know,” she said Tuesday. Her high school in Nashville had over 2,000 students. Rock Island High School has about 1,600 students, of a total of 6,159 in the district. There are nine elementary schools, two junior high schools, plus one alternative high school, with a total district budget of $113.7 million and average $14,000-per-pupil spending. The district also has a comprehensive Pre-K and Head Start program through the Horace Mann Early Learning Center. Williams first started as a social worker in Memphis and has a degree in social work. “It spurred me on to want to be a teacher,” she said Tuesday. “I could have more impact as a teacher.” She was a first-grade teacher in Memphis, and moved back to Nashville, teaching 1st and 3rd grades, and became a principal there. Williams is a 54-year-old native of Nashville, Tenn. (photo by Jonathan Turner). Williams has worked in Tennessee, Missouri, Washington State, Mississippi, Louisiana and Illinois. She’s lived in four cities along the Mississippi River – Memphis, St. Louis, Baton Rouge and now, Rock Island. Her last position was deputy superintendent for two and a half years at Proviso Township High School District in Forest Park, Ill., outside Chicago. Williams has held many leadership roles in education over her career. “It’s really served me well, because I pull on all those experiences coming into a new school district,” she said. Williams holds a doctorate of education from Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Teaching from the University of Memphis. Most diverse in the state Rock Island-Milan is the most diverse school district in the state of Illinois, in terms of racial and ethnic makeup, and number of languages spoken in the school system. Of its students, only one-third are White; 2,073 are African-American; 953 are Hispanic; 431 are Asian and 558 are more than one race. Million Father March (photo: Rock Island - Milan School District #41) “There are school districts that are very diverse in Cook County – Proviso, we were primarily Hispanic and African-American, but not a lot of language diversity, not a lot of cultural diversity,” Williams said. “This is truly the most diverse school district in Illinois based on language, culture, race.” She’s worked in many diverse districts, and it’s a challenge with language barriers, and foreign students getting used to this country. “Our students are exposed to students from all over the world,” she said as a plus to that diversity. “Many of our scholars don’t have that opportunity, to be with students who aren’t like them.” There’s always a need for the district to hire more multi-lingual teachers, Williams said. Diversity in the area is a strength, she said, which attracted her to the district. Coming from a high school district, Williams wanted to return to a job that was responsible for pre-K through 12th grade. She also admires the Board of Education’s support of schools, its unified voice and the overall pride of the community in the schools. Williams, right, spoke with members of the public Tuesday morning at the Hy-Vee on Rock Island's 18th Avenue. “Everywhere you look, there’s someone from Rocky – they’re very prideful of their school district and where they went to school,” Williams said. She doesn’t have any kids of her own, but she’s a dog mom -- to a 3-year-old rescue dog, adopted in Baton Rouge. Very quiet, friendly “It’s very quiet; it’s a peaceful place,” Williams said of the Quad Cities. “Lots of outdoor activities. People are very friendly and welcoming.” There are facilities management planning meetings this week for the district to work on its facilities plan. The first public forums will be Wednesday, May 8 at 6 p.m. at Edison Junior High (4141 9th St.) and Thursday, May 9 at 6 p.m. at the high school (1400 25th Ave.). Rock Island High School is at 1400 25th Ave. “Those meetings are set up to gain input from the community,” Williams said, noting architects will share what their building assessments are, and what the needs are. “There have been partial plans over the years and some improvements made,” she said. “But there’s not a comprehensive plan. That’s the goal over the next six months or so, phase one is getting input, and facilities assessment.” Tracy Pugh, a member of the Rock Island-Milan Board of Education, said Williams’s qualifications are strong. “She has an opinion on every department that we have and every program we have in the district, she’s been a leader of,” he said Tuesday. “It’s nice to have somebody who knows what’s going on, even though she’s still willing to learn.” Williams has a doctorate in education from Tennessee State University and has worked in education over 23 years (photo by Jonathan Turner). It’s a plus to have someone with experience like her, from multiple districts, and can apply that here, knowing what has worked and what hasn’t. “Every school district, you have the same issues with kids, but you need somebody who has the knowledge to do the job, and that was the biggest thing for us,” Pugh said. The district’s biggest challenge is getting the buildings back to where they should be, and ensure that programs are geared to all students, he said. “I like she doesn’t use the word student, she uses the word ‘scholar,’” Pugh said. “Those are our future scholars. Those two things we need to get on top of, and get our team on the same level.” Any school district has to emphasize improving graduation rates and making sure kids stay in school. Rock Island has a 77% graduation rate, compared to 89% for Moline High. Rock Island High School senior Aline Niyogusenga in 2023. As a 10-year employee of East Moline Correctional Center, Pugh sees the result of what happens when students drop out of school and get into crime. “Kids who graduate or go on to a trade, they have a better chance of not ending up in that kind of situation,” he said. “Graduation rates, we need to go up, and we need our scholars to stay in school.” The district should help students figure out a possible career path by the time they’re in junior high, Pugh said. “We need to educate them on what money is out there for them, what scholarships are available,” he said. Williams should strengthen the district’s partnerships with local companies and apprenticeships, and get more kids involved, Pugh added. (rimsd41.org) “She wants to do what’s right and being in education for so long, you understand your job is to make sure that kids have an opportunity,” he said. “I think that’s what I saw in her – she wants to make sure all of these kids in our school district have an opportunity in life, period.” “Make sure the teachers have what they need to do their job,” Pugh said. “We are nothing without our teachers. We need the teachers to be happy, to have the materials they need to do their job.” Starting on July 1 In January 2024, the Board of Education approved a three-year contract with Williams to start July 1, 2024, at an annual salary of $220,000. She will have other public meet-and-greet events at these times: May 14 — 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at RIMSD #41 Administration Center, 2000 7th Ave., Rock Island. May 22 — 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at MLK Center, 630 9th Street, Rock Island.
	John Deere laying off 34 employees at Moline Cylinder Works John Deere plans to lay off 34 production employees at its Moline Cylinder Works factory at the end of May.
	Accident causing delays at 16th Street, Avenue of the Cities intersection in Moline Officials say the intersection will have flashing red lights in all directions Tuesday. Signals are hoped to be restored by the end of the day.
	Yoso in downtown Bettendorf closing until further notice The Japanese restaurant made the announcement on Instagram Monday. It did not provide a timeframe on when it hopes to reopen.
	26 employees to be laid off at Family Resources in Davenport The organization provides confidential services to survivors of domestic abuse, human trafficking and violent crimes.
	Bettendorf Police asking drivers to slow down Bettendorf Police Department has received numerous complaints from residents about speeding drivers in the community.
	John Deere to lay off 34 employees at Moline Cylinder Works John Deere is laying off 34 production employees at its Moline Cylinder Works factory at the end of the month.
	Residents, pets safe after morning fire in Moline Two people and three pets must find a new place to stay after a morning fire in Moline. Moline firefighters were called to the 700 block of 43rd Avenue for a report of smoke inside a residence on May 7 at about 5:46 a.m. First responders arrived within eight minutes and found a small, one-story residence with light smoke in the home. The homeowners said the smoke began after the thunderstorms had passed through the area. The occupants escaped the home before the fire department arrived. The engine company found a fire in the attic of the home and quickly extinguished it. Fire crews stayed on scene to assist with salvage and overhaul. Two adults and three pets were displaced but didn’t need other assistance. The Moline Fire Department Bureau of Investigations is investigating the fire.
	Firefighters respond to Moline house fire Five people were displaced after a fire in a Moline home Tuesday morning, crews say.
	St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University announce new collaboration The agreement will allow students to take a variety of different courses from either university, whether in-person, or in a hybrid or online format.
	Pedestrian killed in Rock Island crash identified as East Peoria man The collision happened Thursday near Centennial Bridge.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for May 7, 2024 One person is dead after a crash near DeWitt, and an Alabama man was arrested in connection to an East Moline shooting.
	QC films win Iowa Motion Picture awards Several films with Quad Cities connections earned Iowa Motion Picture Association awards at the 33rd-annual award ceremony at the Bowman Fine Arts Center in Forest City, Iowa, on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Tammy and Kelly Rundle filming at Forest Grove School in Bettendorf. Two documentaries produced by Kelly and Tammy Rundle of Moline-based Fourth Wall Films received honors -- the top award in the Documentary Feature category for “Resurrecting Forest Grove” and the Best Documentary Short for the environmental documentary “Moved by Waters.” The Iowa Motion Picture Association recognized outstanding creative and technical achievement in Iowa’s film industry in 57 categories. Film director Stephen Folker, left, and actor Dave Juehring with their Iowa Motion Picture Association awards on Saturday, May 4, 2024. The winners with QC connections are: Actor Award of Excellence: Dave Juehring, “House on Rockingham” Actor Award of Achievement: Rob Merritt, “Blue Christmas” Screenplay (produced) Award of Excellence: Max Allan Collins, “Blue Christmas” Direction (long form) Award of Achievement: Max Allan Collins, Chad Bishop, “Blue Christmas” A scene from the film "Blue Christmas." Direction (long form) Award of Achievement: Stephen Folker, “House on Rockingham” Direction (medium form) Award of Achievement: Stephen Folker, “The Kids’ Table” Documentary (long form) Award of Excellence: “Resurrecting Forest Grove, Kelly Rundle, director Documentary (short form) Award of Achievement: “Moved By Waters,” Kelly Rundle, director “Resurrecting Forest Grove” cinematically tells the dramatic true story behind the seemingly impossible task of restoring a vintage one-room school in northeast Bettendorf to its 1920s appearance. Footage and interviews gathered over a decade depict the problems they faced and the solutions they employed as they attempted to bring the decaying rural icon back to life. The surprises and successes of this challenging restoration project are intercut with a vivid historical portrait of the “Roaring 20s” in rural America.’ The school is open for tours late May – starting May 25, they will be open on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., until Aug. 21. “Moved by Waters” is an uplifting and inspirational documentary that depicts collaborative projects involving organizations and diverse groups of students, teachers, artists, farmers, and volunteers of all ages in the Quad Cities region -- setting aside political or other differences -- all working toward improving the quality of water in the Upper Mississippi Watershed. The film was made possible by a grant from Roger Ross Gipple of BeWildReWild. “We are grateful to the Iowa Motion Picture Association for honoring our documentary films with these awards, and the inspiring people behind the important work of historic preservation, and clean water for all creatures great and small,” Fourth Wall producer Tammy Rundle said in a recent release. “Moved by Waters” recently screened during Earth Day festivities in the Washington D.C. area, and will be shown on May 10th at 7 p.m. at the RPL Nordlof Center, in Rockford, Ill. A Q&A with the Rundles will follow the screening. The free event is sponsored by the Sinnissippi Audubon Society and kicks off the World Migratory Bird Day celebration. For more information on IMPA, click HERE.
	More than 800 without power in the Quad-Cities Tuesday morning Expected restoration time is 10 a.m.
	Gabriel Iglesias adds matinee show at Rhythm City Casino The Quad Cities can’t get enough of Fluffy, so he’s doing a matinee! Comedian Gabriel Iglesias is performing an extra matinee performance on Sunday, July 7 at 5 p.m. at Rhythm City Casino, 7077 Elmore Avenue in Davenport. Tickets will be available online or at The Market at Rhythm City. There will be a presale on Thursday, May 9 at 10 a.m. and general ticket sales start on Friday, May 10 at 10 a.m. Gabriel Iglesias (Rhythm City Casino) Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is the second highest-grossing touring comedian and is one of the most watched comedians on YouTube with over 1.1 billion views and over 25 million fans on social media. He was in The Hollywood Reporter’s “Top 40 Comedy Players” issue with Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock and Lorne Michaels. He’s headlined and sold out Madison Square Garden in New York, Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles and The Sydney Opera House in Australia. He’s acted in Magic Mike, Magic Mike XXL and A Haunted House 2. Iglesias signed a deal with Netflix for two stand-up comedy specials; “One Show Fits All,” was filmed in front of a sold-out audience at the Toyota Center in Houston and started streaming in January 2019. “Stadium Fluffy” premiered back in October and was taped in front of a crowd of 55,000 fans at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, where Iglesias became the first comedian to perform at and sell out the largest MLB stadium in the U.S. For more on Gabriel Iglesias, click here.
	Coroner identifies man, teen killed in Moline shooting The Moline Police Department is investigating after two men were found dead from apparent gunshot wounds early Sunday morning. Tuesday, the coroner identified the two victims.
	The Arc of the Quad Cities MLK Food Drive beginning Tuesday The Arc of the Quad Cities MLK Food Drive beginning Tuesday
	Muscatine plants trees in parks after grant, donation The City of Muscatine received a $2,000 Community Forestry Grant earlier this year, and that amount turned into a $4,000 effort to purchase trees for city parks thanks to a $2,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Muscatine, CBI Bank & Trust, and Donald Consulting Group, a news release says. (City of Muscatine) “This was a matching grant and the effort to match it started with Rotary and expanded from there,” said Barth Donald, community services chair for the Rotary of Muscatine Club. “With this grant we were able to purchase 11 trees,” said Melissa Baker, park maintenance supervisor for the City of Muscatine. Rotary Club members, along with staff from the City of Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department, were originally scheduled to plant the trees in Lucas Park on Arbor Day (April 29) but inclement weather forced the postponement to Friday. "The City of Muscatine is thankful for the invaluable support of local residents and businesses in their urban forestry efforts. Last Saturday, volunteers from the Vision Center relocated 40 trees from the greenhouses at Weed Park to the tree nursery at the Muscatine Municipal Golf Course.," the release says. Baker said that the Parks and Recreation Department will apply for more grants to fund the purchase of more trees to plant this Fall.
	A US company is fined $650,000 for illegally hiring children to clean meat processing plants The February filing indicated federal investigators believed at least four children had still been working at one Iowa slaughterhouse as of Dec. 12.
	New Iowa crosswalk law to help protect bicyclists Just in time for the celebration of National Bike Month in May, Gov. Kim Reynolds signed HF 2568, which extends critical protections to everyone who uses crosswalks.
	Rain or shine: Muscatine Area Farmer's Market returns Saturday's kick off to the 2024 season of the Muscatine Area Farmer's Market was a successful one.
	City, Rotary Club plants 11 new trees through urban forestry grant The city’s urban forestry efforts continued last week with the planting of 11 brand new trees on Friday.
	Cook review: 'Fall Guy' is uplifting romp An homage to stunt people and to a popular 1980s television series, “The Fall Guy” is a lot of fun. Before the movie starts, you'll see director David Leitch, who began his career as a stunt double, and Ryan Gosling, who stars as Colt Seavers, a stuntman. 'The Fall Guy' (IMDb) In their brief appearance, Leitch tells the audience this is a kind of love letter to stunt experts. At first, I wondered whether this was necessary, because the movie is overly long as it is. But, because of this addition, the idea of stunt work immediately changed my perspective: Not once during all of the heavy-duty stunts in this film, did I forget stunt actors were the reason it works. The TV series was about a stuntman – also named Colt Seavers - who worked during slower times as a bounty hunter. The movie has a similar tone, although here Colt isn’t a bounty hunter. He’s a fellow who’s hopelessly in love with filmmaker Jody (Emily Blunt.) Colt is a stunt double for a Tom Cruise-type of action star whose face is recognized globally. After a stunt goes tragically wrong, Colt finds himself out of the action and romance loops until a producer calls him to a set. Then the star goes missing, and that’s when Colt becomes involved in a mystery that will challenge his fast thinking and fast moves. The KISS song “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” runs all the way through the practically non-stop action and gives a nice nod to the film’s origins. If you’re old enough to remember the television series, be patient: At the very end of the finale there’s a most welcome appearance by that show’s star, and you’ll hear the series theme, this time delivered by Blake Shelton. What a great romp this is, with an enjoyable chemistry between Blunt and Gosling, incredible stunts and fun characters portrayed by capable actors. This is old-fashioned film making that doesn't depend on CGI to entertain. It richly deserves to be seen on the big screen. 3 1/2 stars Rated: PG-13 for violence, drug content and coarse language. Running time: Two hours and six minutes. In theaters. Watch the trailer here.
	Arts Alley potential murals need feedback Rock Island is asking for the public's input on one of the largest public art projects in the city’s history.
	QC Animal Welfare Center holds low-cost mobile vaccine clinic in Silvis The Quad City Animal Welfare Center will hold a low-cost mobile vaccine clinic from noon until 2 p.m. Friday at the Silvis Library, 806 1st Ave., Silvis. For a list of vaccines and preventative products for this mobile clinic please visit here. Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be on a leash. For more information, visit here or here. The Quad City Animal Welfare Center Adoption & Education Center is at 724 2nd W. Avenue in Milan. The Quad City Animal Welfare Center Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic is at 612 1st W. Street in Milan
	A violent Sunday leaves one dead in East Moline, two killed in Moline A violent Sunday on the Illinois side of the Quad-Cities started with a fatal shooting and ended with an armed standoff.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, May 7, 2024 Steven G. Aeschliman, 40, of East Peoria, Illinois, died Thursday, May 2, 2024, in UnityPoint Health – Trinity Rock Island. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities.
Monday, May 6th, 2024
	Memories in the Making raises $55,000 for Alzheimer's research The Alzheimer's Association's Memories in the Making fundraiser was a record-breaker for the group. The organization raised $55,000 to help fund Alzheimer's and dementia care, support and research. Money was raised from the sale of works of art created by people living with dementia.A painting by Our Quad Cities' Eileen Vermeulen's mother sold for $1,700. More than 200 people attended the event, which was emceed by Chief Meteorologist Andy McCray.
	Kyle Petty's Charity Ride Across American stops in Bettendorf The annual ride raises money for Victory Junction, a summer camp for kids with serious medical conditions and chronic illnesses.
	Here's when Rock Island-Milan School District families can meet their new superintendent Visitors will learn more about Dr. Sharon Williams' background and her vision for the district.
	Bass Street Landing Summer Concert Series returns in May Fans of live music and outdoor events will have something fun to look forward to this summer as the downtown Moline music season begins on Thursday, May 16, according to Renew Moline officials.
	250,000 Iowans could soon see their water bill increase by 30% 250,000 Iowans could soon see their water bill increase by 30%.
	Victims identified in Moline double homicide Anyone with information in this case is asked to contact Moline police.
	Hy-Vee recalling some cream cheese spreads The batches were exposed to possible salmonella contamination.
	Kyle Petty Charity Ride roars through QCA When NASCAR's Kyle Petty lost his son Adam in a racing accident, it shook him and his legendary father Richard Petty to the core. The Petty family honors Adam's memory through the Victory Junction camp for kids with serious illnesses. The Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America has been one of the biggest fundraisers for that camp since it started 28 years ago. The charity motorcycle ride stopped in Bettendorf on its journey from South Datoka to the camp just outside of Greensboro, North Carolina. Their ride is about celebrating Americana this year. For more information, click here.
	It's lights out on Centennial Bridge to help migratory birds River Action will turn out the Centennial Bridge lights at 11 p.m. May 6-8 to protect birds migrating nocturnally as they pass through the Quad City region, a news release says. This operation will be conducted by Art-o-Lite/Crawford Company. Migratory birds fly over a wetland in the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary at Morigaon in India's Assam state on February 27, 2021. (Photo by BIJU BORO/AFP via Getty Images) Also, River Action suggests that residents in the flyway turn off all non-essential lightingfrom 11 p.m. until 6 a.m. the following morning. Bright lights attract and disorient nocturnally migrating birds, potentially causing fatal collisions with buildings or exposure to additional day time hazards. It is estimated that as many as 28,000 birds will migrate Monday and Tuesday. The estimate is 16,000-28,000 birds on Wednesday. For more information about this three-night migration forecast, visit here. For more information about the Centennial Bridge lights, contact kwine@riveraction.org or call 563-322-2969.
	Layoffs coming to Family Resources, report states Layoffs are coming to Family Resources, according to a notice posted on the Iowa Worker Adjustment and Retaining Notification (WARN) list.
	St. Ambrose and Mount Mercy join forces for education St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University are joining forces to offer more educational opportunities to students. A new agreement between the two schools would allow students to take a range of courses from either university. Classes could be taken in-person or in a hybrid or online format. The program is scheduled to begin in the fall. The collaboration will create new opportunities for adult learners. Both universities will keep sports and music programs separate. For more information, click here.
	Moline man arrested for aggravated assault and firearm charge A Moline man is in custody after barricading himself in a garage with a gun. On May 5 at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Moline Police Department responded to a 911 call ofa domestic disturbance in the 3200 block of 40th St. A woman at the residence advised that thesuspect had a gun and was distraught. Police officers responded and Cayne Wilford, 27, barricaded himself in the garage with the firearm. Cayne Wilford (Moline Police Department) Police deployed a large amount of resources to the location to mitigate both the risk and in an attempt to deescalate the standoff. Negotiators arrived and spent approximately 3 hours negotiating with Wilford. At approximately 1:41 p.m., Wilford allegedly fired a shot inside the garage. Police deployed additional resources, including the Crisis Containment Unit. At approximately 2:34pm, Wilford surrendered and was taken into custody. No injuries were reported in this incident. Wilford was charged with aggravated assault and aggravated discharge of a firearm. He is being held in the Rock Island County Jail, pending a pretrial detention hearing.
	Golfers tee off for area youth at Jim Victor Memorial Junior Achievement Golf Classic Around 170 golfers teed off for area youth at the Jim Victor Memorial Junior Achievement Golf Classic. Jim Victor served on the board of directors and taught classes at JA. He was part of the creation of the Free Enterprise Foundation over 20 years ago, a fund that keeps JA's mission sustainable for the future. Victor died six years ago, but he's still making differences in Junior Achievement. This is the 24th year of the Jim Victor Memorial Junior Achievement Golf Classic. For more information, click here.
	QC nurse gives CPR to shooting victim: 'I'd seen a body fall to the ground' A Quad Cities nurse was nearby when a shooting happened Sunday in East Moline. She didn't hesitate to do all she could to save the victim. And now the magnitude of her actions in the middle of a crime scene is really sinking in. Rachael Downing,med manager, Senior Star, told Our Quad Cities News "I'd seen a body fall to the ground and I heard people screaming." Rachael Downing (Charlie Roiland) "I jumped right in. As soon as I'd seen his body fall and heard (someone else) screaming, I immediately ran over there. I knew what needed to be done and I knew that the quicker I worked the more of a chance he could've had at surviving," she said. Downing is a CNA who is CPR-certified. Day-to-day, she works with dementia patients at Senior Star. Her experience allowed her to help the man who had been shot, and call for additional help from bystanders. "Since he was a heavier male too, and I was getting pretty tired, I had somebody else also step in and help me. I asked multiple people to hold where he had been shot, and then I had another guy helping me do chest compressions," Downing said. Even with her professional training and prior experience giving CPR, Downing described the situation as incredibly traumatic. "I'm still shaky, even," she said. "I did decide to still go to work this morning and all, just to really kinda keep my head on straight cause I know that if I wouldn't I would've probably spiraled out." Despite the trauma, Downing's efforts did not stop after administering CPR Instead, she has continued to communicate with the family, who has agreed to keep her up to date on the man's funeral proceedings. "I have tried to reach out to the family and they've been very, very sweet to me about it. I do appreciate that, I would love to be there for him," she said. Police arrived Sunday morning at the Deerfield Woods Apartments complex and found a man who was shot multiple times and unresponsive, according to a Monday release. Responding officers provided life-saving measures on the man, turned over to Fire and EMS services with the man being transported to Genesis Illini Hospital. The man, Michael J. Robinson, 22, of Davenport, died at the hospital shortly afterward. Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson said Robinson was shot multiple times. An investigation immediately began into this incident by the East Moline Investigations Division. A suspect was soon identified as Jarquez D. Robertson, 21, out of Huntsville, Ala., with him possibly fleeing the area in a vehicle back to Alabama, police said. An arrest warrant was obtained for Jarquez Robertson for First Degree Murder with no bond. Jarquez Robertson (East Moline Police Department) An alert was put out nationwide to be on the lookout for the suspect and vehicle he was driving. Huntsville Alabama Police Department was also contacted as it was suspected he was headed to that area. At approximately 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 5, the Huntsville, Ala., Police Department located Jarquez Robertson and arrested him without incident. He is being held at the Madison County Jail in Alabama and processes will take place to extradite Robertson back to the Rock Island County Jail in Illinois. The Silvis Police Department, Moline Police Department, Rock Island County Sheriff’s Department, East Moline Fire Department, Genesis Ambulance, Illinois State Police, and Huntsville Police Department assisted on this incident. The investigation into this incident continues by East Moline Police Criminal Investigation and Illinois State Crime Scene teams and Rock Island County. Police ask anyone with information to contact the East Moline Police Department at 309-752-1555, Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities at 309-762-9500, or use the “P3 Tips” mobile app. You can remain anonymous.
	Rock Island Township office closed, giveaway postponed The South Rock Island Township office will be closed on Tuesday, May 7, because the water was shut off for maintenance work on the roadway, a news release says. The giveaway that was set earlier also will be cancelled for the day, and will be held Thursday, May 9, instead. The township office hopes to reopen on Wednesday.
	Beaux Arts Fair returns to Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds May 11 & 12 Proceeds from the event help support educational programs at the Figge Art Museum.
	3 Clinton High School students recognized for efforts to save lives in their community The students' project focused on reducing overdose deaths in their community. It placed third at the National Career Development Conference.
	Election 2024: Voters to consider amendment on gubernatorial line of succession Iowans will vote on a constitutional amendment this fall that centers on the line of succession for Iowa Governor. We know the Lieutenant Governor becomes Governor, but who picks the next Lieutenant Governor?
	Suspect arrested in Alabama in connection to fatal East Moline shooting 21-year-old Jarquez D. Robertson was arrested on first-degree murder charges in Huntsville, Alabama, in connection to the shooting.
	Sherrard lunch lady with deafness honored by students and faculty Kathy Slattery said that some students have started learning sign language to help communicate with her.
	2 killed in Moline: Victims identified as teenagers Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson has identified the victims as 17-year-old Giovanni Flores and 19-year-old Zachery Meincke, both of Moline.
	Golfers tee off for QCA youth in Jim Victor Memorial Junior Achievement Golf Classic More than 170 golfers teed off for area youth at the Jim Victor Memorial Junior Achievement (J.A.) Golf Classic at the Crow Valley Golf Club.
	John Deere to lay off 34 in Moline at end of month John Deere plans to lay off 34 people at its Cylinder Works in Moline at the end of the month.
	Hy-Vee recalls cream cheese, cookies & cream mix Hy-Vee, Inc., based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is voluntarily recalling two varieties of its Hy-Vee Cream Cheese Spread out of an abundance of caution because of the potential for contamination with Salmonella, according to a news release. Additionally, Hy-Vee is voluntarily recalling its bulk-packaged Cookies & Cream Mix out of an abundance of caution due to the potential for contamination with Salmonella. Example of Product – Hy-Vee Cream Cheese Spreads Example of Product – Hy-Vee Cookies & Cream Mix These products are manufactured at different third-party facilities around the Midwest and are sold under Hy-Vee’s private label and bulk packaging programs. The manufacturers of these products notified Hy-Vee of the potential issue and out of an abundance of caution Hy-Vee is voluntarily recalling these specific products. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions because of consumption of any of these products. The affected products were distributed to Hy-Vee, Hy-Vee Drugstore and Dollar Fresh Market locations – as well as Hy-Vee Fast and Fresh convenience stores – across the company’s eight-state region of Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The recalled products are labeled as outlined below. No other varieties of Hy-Vee Cream Cheese or bulk-packaged items are affected by this voluntary recall. UPC Product and size Use by/Best by Lot Number 0075450096132Hy-Vee Whipped Cream Cheese Spread – 8 oz.8/7/2024; 8/14/2024N/A0075450096120Hy-Vee Cream Cheese Spread – 12 oz.10/1/2024N/A0075450486740Hy-Vee To Go Cookies & Cream Mix – 4 oz.12/5/2024240730075450486740Hy-Vee To Go Cookies & Cream Mix – 4 oz.12/1/2024241010075450486740Hy-Vee To Go Cookies & Cream Mix – 4 oz.12/5/2024241170075450486730Hy-Vee Cookies & Cream Mix – 16 oz.12/5/2024240730075450486730Hy-Vee Cookies & Cream Mix – 16 oz.12/1/2024241010075450486730Hy-Vee Cookies & Cream Mix – 16 oz.12/5/202424117 Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. Hy-Vee has voluntarily removed all affected items listed above from its shelves. Customers who purchased the product should dispose of the product or return it to their local Hy-Vee store for a full refund. Customers with questions may contact Hy-Vee Customer Care representatives at (800) 772-4098 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. More about Hy-Vee Hy-Vee, Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 570 business units across nine Midwestern states with sales of more than $13 billion annually. The company’s more than 75,000 employees provide “A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle” to customers every day. For additional information, visit www.hy-vee.com.
	Historic locomotive 'Empress' rolls into the QCA Hit the rails as a historic locomotive rolls into the QCA. Terry Cunha spoke with Our Quad Cities News about The Empress. For more information, click here.
	St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University announce partnership The partnership would allow students to enroll in courses at both schools.
	Last Picture House opens rooftop bar, lounge The theater plans to host screenings on the weekends during the warmer months.
	New Rock Island-Milan school superintendent to meet parents on Tuesday Community members can meet Dr. Sharon Williams at the Rock Island Hy-Vee between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
	GoFundMe returns over $400,000 to donors hoping to support homeless man Sanai Graden, said all she wanted to do was help a man experiencing homelessness get treatment and permanent housing.
	250,000 Iowans could see water bill increase Iowa American Water says the hikes would help them invest in improved water infrastructure.
	Moline City Council will vote on plans for former JCPenney building The Moline City Council will vote Tuesday night on a plan to turn the old JCPenney building into apartments.
	Go for the gold at Quad Cities Senior Olympics Athletes over 50 will soon be going for the gold in sporting competitions. Rhonda Elsbury sprinted in to Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Quad Cities Senior Olympics. For more information, click here.
	A woman fed a bull a banana here and there, but the cops were called when he showed up at her back door Mansfield police took the bull safely back to its pasture. It and another bull wander up to Latoya Keeling's backyard daily, where she gives them a snack.
	Stunted Development: “The Fall Guy,” “The Idea of You,” “Tarot,” and “Unfrosted” The leads are attractive and charming. The action is swift and loud. The jokes are unmissable. And if you spend more than five seconds thinking about The Fall Guy, the whole thing crumbles like a particularly flimsy house of cards.
	Teen seriously injured after falling down abandoned missile silo Crews rescued the teen after he fell about 30 feet in the silo near Deer Trail, the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office said.
	Bridge lights to be turned off for migrating birds The Centennial Bridge lights be turned off for three nights to protect up to 56,000 migrating birds, River Action said.
	Make way for migrating birds: Centennial Bridge to have lights shut off at night The lights will be off from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on May 6, 7 and 8.
	Silvis Public Library holding Zoom event featuring actor Kal Penn The virtual talk featuring actor Kal Penn will be held on Tuesday, May 7 at 7 p.m.
	Quad City Law Enforcement Officers Memorial honors those who lost their lives in the line of duty The event took place on the first Sunday of May, which is Law Enforcement Appreciation Month in Illinois.
	Meet-and-greet Tuesday with new Rock Island superintendent The school district said there will be three events in Rock Island.
	Teacher/adult student relationships could be illegal in Illinois It could soon be illegal in Illinois for a teacher to have a sexual relationship with an adult student. The bill, HB4241, passed unanimously in the Illinois House that criminalizes relationships with students 18-23, if the educator is at least four years older than the student. Currently, educators in the state can be fire if they're sexually with a student but not charged criminally. Charges would range from a misdemeanor to felony, depending on the number of students and the nature of the conduct. For more information, click here.
	Officials identify two people shot and killed Sunday in Moline The investigation into their shooting continued as of Monday.
	Final person sentenced for 2020 homicide in Davenport Sylvester Eddings, 45, was killed during a robbery on Aug. 22, 2020.
	Dunkin’ delivers ‘Dose of Gratitude: Free Cup of Thanks’ campaign for healthcare workers Dunkin’ is celebrating healthcare heroes with a campaign called “Dose of Gratitude: Free Cup of Thanks” for healthcare workers on National Nurses Day.
	Crossroads Inc. to offer free Residential Secure Shred Day Crossroads Inc. said they will be offering their third annual free Residential Secure Shred Day in May.
	Muscatine Senior Center opens The center is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
	Centennial Bridge to turn off its lights during bird migration Nocturnally migrating birds are coming through, and those birds can be disoriented by bright lights.
	1 dead after Clinton County crash The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office said the deadly crash happened on Highway 30 where 330th Avenue intersects with the divided highway east of DeWitt.
	Police: Man, teen dead, identified after shooting in Moline, autopsies underway, coroner says The Moline Police Department is investigating after two men were found dead from apparent gunshot wounds early Sunday morning. Tuesday, the coroner identified the two victims.
	2 killed in Moline: Victims identified as teenagers Rock Island County Coroner Brian Gustafson has identified the victims as 17-year-old Giovanni Flores and 19-year-old Zachery Meincke, both of Moline.
	Free Bass Street concerts to start May 16 The start of summer is six weeks off, but the 2024 Summer Concert Series at Moline’s Bass Street Landing Plaza kicks off Thursday, May 16th, with 12 outdoor concerts through Thursday, August 8th. A solo or duo will play starting at 6 p.m. each week, followed by the featured band 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., with free admission. Funktastic 5 kicks of the 2024 Summer Concert Series on Thursday, May 16th, with opening act Soultru. The summer concerts at Bass Street Landing are free all-ages shows, and food and beverages are available for purchase. Concertgoers should bring a lawn chair. No outside alcohol is allowed. The 2024 Summer Concert Series featured bands are: May 16 – Funktastic 5 May 23 – Fair Warning May 30 – Wicked Liz and the Bellyswirls June 6 -- John Resch & Doggin’ Out June 13 – Jason Carl & the Whole Damn Band June 20 – For Those About to Yacht June 27 – Totes McGotes July 4 – NO CONCERT – enjoy the Quad City area fireworks! July 11 – Smooth Groove July 18 – Far Out 283 July 25 – Crooked Cactus Band Aug. 1 – Corporate Rock Aug. 8 – Dani Lynn Howe Band The 2024 Summer Concert Series schedule is also available on the Moline Centre Facebook page and on the Bass Street Landing website HERE. The concert series is presented by the Moline Parks and Recreation Department and the Moline Centre Program. Bass Street Landing Plaza is adjacent to the River Station building (1601 River Drive, Moline), on the north side of the building, and west of the Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center. Fans of live music and outdoor events can find more offerings throughout the summer in downtown Moline Centre, including the following music series: Mercado on Fifth – Friday nights, May 24-Sept. 20 Pour Bros. Craft Taproom’s Railside Series -- Saturday nights, May 18-Sept. 28 Moline Township Activity Center’s Concert in the Park -- Monday nights, June 3-July 22 Sound Conservatory’s Keys of Unity performances -- dates and times TBA Live music events are also offered by Dead Poet’s Espresso, Los Portales, O’Keefe’s Irish Pub, and other downtown Moline merchants. For a list of music, improv, live theater, and other events in downtown Moline Centre, visit the Events page of www.molinecentre.org.
	Fareway celebrates National Nurse’s Day with discount Fareway Stores Inc. will showcase its appreciation of medical professionals with a special offer in honor of National Nurse’s Day, according to a media release from the grocery store chain.
	1 dead after crash near DeWitt One person is dead following a two-vehicle crash in Clinton County on Sunday, May 5.
	Deere announces layoffs Thirty-four employees are being laid off at the John Deere plant in Moline.
	Deputies respond to Jo Daviess County crash with injuries, deputies say Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a single-vehicle crash with injuries Saturday in rural Galena.
	$69.9 million grant helps connect rural Illinois to internet Residents of rural Illinois are about to get a major internet connection boost thanks to a $69.9 million grant from the Connect Illinois program. “We’re really excited about this opportunity, especially for our members,” said Mike Casper, president and CEO of JCE Co-op. “We’re a member owned, not-for-profit cooperative and we have a lot of not served and underserved members, as well as others in our counties that participate in not only our electric and natural gas services but other services as well.” “It means so much to the businesses, to the residents of our counties that we serve,” he said. “It's about 5100 homes that it's going to pass through that will provide access to that high-speed Internet, and that goes a long ways.” Having high speed access benefits both residential and commercial customers, Casper said. “It’s hard to even explain how important they are because priority is not given to the rural areas. These grants are allowing us to bring that high-speed internet service to people, residents, homes, businesses.” The grant will help bring high speed internet access to Whiteside, Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties. Casper says having high speed internet access will let residents enjoy new opportunities for work, entertainment and more. “The speed that it provides to be able to do everyday work, whether you’re working from home, and there’s so many people that want to move into our area or spend more time in our beautiful area. It’s about improving the quality of life in rural America. That’s what our primary focus, enhancing the quality of life in our region. My mother had a call with her doctor the other day and she was able to do that because she was on JCE Co-op fiber.” For more on JCE Co-op, click here.
	Community Foundation gives over half million in new scholarships The Quad Cities Community Foundation on Monday announced it has awarded $578,600 in new scholarships. The awards are made possible by the generosity of donors to scholarship funds at the Community Foundation. “The Community Foundation and the donors we work with are dedicated to investing in our local students,” Sue Hafkemeyer, president and CEO of the Community Foundation, said in a Monday release. “Along with our staff, board, and scholarship committee, I am incredibly proud of every recipient and cannot wait to see what they do next.” Winners of 2024 QC Community Foundation scholarships. This year, 74 scholarships were awarded to high school and college students. More than half of these are renewable, meaning students will receive ongoing financial support throughout their academic careers. Awards were granted to students of all ages and educational paths, from community colleges and four-year universities to trade and technical schools. “Donors contribute to these awards for many reasons,” said Hafkemeyer. “Some represent memorial funds honoring a loved one, others are returning the generosity that helped them when they were a student. In any case, their generosity is funding a bright future for our region. These scholarships are supporting the future of our region.” This year, changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) came into effect as the Community Foundation’s application process was ongoing. “Those changes caused several logistical challenges for students, parents, and counselors,” said Kelly Thompson, Community Foundation vice president of grantmaking and community initiatives. “Our staff responded quickly and flexibly so that we could provide options for applicants and ensure these awards would be delivered on time.” Anyone interested in starting a scholarship for area students can contact the Community Foundation at (563) 326-2840.
	You can meet Rock Island-Milan new schools chief The public is invited to attend a reception to welcome the Rock Island-Milan School District #41 incoming Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Sharon Williams. Dr. Sharon Williams Guests will be able to learn more about her, her background and hear her vision for the district. Afterward, guests will be able to mix and mingle. There will be three receptions held: May 7 -- 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Hy-Vee community room, 2930 18th Ave., Rock Island. May 14 -- 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at RIMSD #41 Administration Center, 2000 7th Ave., Rock Island. May 22 -- 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at MLK Center, 630 9th Street, Rock Island. In January 2024, the Board of Education approved a three-year contract with Williams to start July 1, 2024, at an annual salary of $220,000. She has over 23 years of educational experience, including as a teacher, principal, executive director, project director, executive coach, chief academic officer, chief of schools, and most recently as deputy superintendent at Proviso Township High School District in Cook County, Ill.
	Alabama man arrested after East Moline homicide The East Moline Police are asking the public for information after a man was shot dead over the weekend.
	St. Ambrose University, Mount Mercy launch new partnership, eye further collaboration A new partnership between St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University will allow students to take some courses at the other university.
	New principal picked for DeWitt middle school Pending school board approval, Pam Hayes has been named as the Central DeWitt Community School District’s next middle school principal. As the associate principal of instruction at Meredith Middle School within the Des Moines Public Schools, Hayes has supported teachers through grade-level instructional coaching, according to a DeWitt district release Monday. Pam Hayes In this capacity, she has also developed and monitored an equity-driven, data-centered intervention program tailored to student needs. Hayes holds a master’s degree in educational administration with a principal endorsement from Northwestern College, as well as a master’s degree in leadership and effective teaching from Drake University. She has 22 years of teaching experience in special education. Her tenure at Meredith Middle School began with her role as an instructional coach, which she held for six years. “I am honored to join the Central DeWitt community and to have the opportunity to lead Central DeWitt Middle School,” Hayes said in Monday’s release. “I am committed to embracing our district’s mission of creating an innovative and supportive learning environment that ensures the lifelong success of all our students. Together, we will work towards fulfilling this vision and making a positive impact on the lives of our students.” Board members worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the search. Hayes interviewed with stakeholder groups consisting of teachers and administrators on April 30, 2024. She will officially begin leading Central DeWitt Middle School effective July 1, 2024.

Tuesday, May 7th, 2024

Monday, May 6th, 2024