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

Tuesday, September 26th, 2023
	Quad Cities hosting multiple job fairs to fill vacant positions Between WIU, Black Hawk College and the National Guard Readiness Center -- businesses are seeking applicants to fill open positions.
	Galesburg stabbing suspect captured Tuesday Overnight the suspect allegedly involved in an attempted murder was taken into custody. The victim remains in a hospital for his injuries.
	Davenport alderman Tim Kelly says city workers used racist language towards him The 5th Ward alderman voiced his complaints at a recent Committee of the Whole meeting.
	Rock Falls police on alert after string of car thefts Three cars were broken into and one stolen 2006 Chevy Impala. The suspects were last seen heading south and west of the city, anyone with tips should call police.
Monday, September 25th, 2023
	Public schools concerned new state program could lead to more budget cuts Over 18,000 students in Iowa were approved for education savings accounts heading into the 2023-2024 school year after the governor signed the Students First Act in January.
	Davenport community frustrated over alleged racial language towards alderman Tim Kelly The 5th Ward alderman voiced his complaints at a recent Committee of the Whole meeting.
	Friendship Manor receives $200,000 from Rock Island City Council The money is part of a $12.5 million renovation project.
	Suspect in Galesburg stabbing arrested Jeremiah Bradfield is charged with attempted murder.
	Five Quad City Area towns to receive nearly $2 million for neighborhood revitalization Galesburg, Monmouth, Macomb, Moline, and Rock Island will split the money.
	How a government shutdown could affect the nation and here at home Lawmakers have until the end of the day Saturday, September 30 to avoid a government shutdown. At midnight that Sunday, government business shuts down without a deal. Behind the scenes a bipartisan group is pushing a short term plan to keep things running. Alexandra Limon reports on some of the consequences we could see across the nation and here in the QCA if a shutdown happens.
	Applications open in October for Toys for Tots Quad Cities It’s not too early to start thinking about the holidays. Applications for Toys for Tots Quad Cities open this weekend.
	Nonprofit hosting 10th annual 5K walk and run in Princeton, Iowa Not only is the race a chance to get out and run, it's also raising money for a Mississippi River Trail.
	Bettendorf Police Department asking for support of Pink Patch Project Throughout October, look for a pink patch on the Bettendorf Police Department’s blue uniforms.
	Bethany for Children & Families and Bridgeview Community Mental Health Center merge Officials say this transition maintains the corporate structure of both organizations, while being governed by a unified Board of Directors.
	Suspects in over 5,000 pound marijuana case appear in court, how lawmakers react Illinois State Police Troopers have arrested 29-year-old Robert Mazo and 33-year-old Pedro Arreola last Wednesday on drug possession charges. Today, both suspects had an appearance in Henry County Court. Even after they were released on pretrial conditions by a Henry County Court judge. Pedro Arreola (L) and Robert Mazo (Illinois State Police) Both suspects appeared in court today in street clothes, along with their two attorneys. Both Mazo and Arreola were arrested last week in possession of more than 5 thousand pounds of marijuana. Illinois State Police say it was one of the largest seizures in the agency's history. Both suspects waived their rights to preliminary hearings on Monday. Illinois senators and representatives across the state of Illinois shared their reactions on both the case at hand, and the newly appointed Safe-T that included no cash bail starting just last week. "This just shows you how ridiculous the Safe-T act is. And the fact that we have now allowed two drug runners from the state of California to be released," Illinois Representative Ryan Spain said. "I can't think of anything more ridiculous and reckless. The legislation has been fundamentally flawed from the beginning. And now that no cash bail has been implemented in the state of Illinois for one week now, we are starting to see the results of what a failed policy that is." Local 4 also reached out to Illinois Senator Neil Anderson who said in a statement, "Unfortunately, Illinois is the guinea pig for this ill-advised experiment called the 'Safe-T Act', becoming the first in the nation to completely eliminate cash bail in exchange for a system that favors criminals. I commend and support our law enforcement, who continue to do the best job possible to keep the public safe even when their hands are tied by this new law." Robert Mazo and Pedro Arreola will both have pretrial conferences on the same day, November 9th. While in the courtroom, the judge for Henry County allowed both suspects to the leave the state of Illinois, as long as they are both electronically monitored, and return to their next scheduled court date.
	Moline's African Catholic Community celebrates 20 years Hundreds of worshipers gathered at Christ the King Church on Sunday and celebrated through music and prayer.
	Live Interview: QC Storm returning with 'Hockey is for Her' night featuring Olympic gold medal holder Hilary Knight won a gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics and will be at the QC Storm "Hockey is for Her" night on Oct. 28.
	Got tickets? $785M - 4th largest Powerball ever! The fourth-largest Powerball jackpot in histiory is up for grabs! A single winner would take home a $785,000,000 jackpot, which would be $367,000,000 for the cash option. The drawing is just before 10:00 p.m., so we'll have those numbers for you on Local 4 News at 10:00.
	Recap of the 2023 Quad Cities Marathon Around 200 runners experienced delays due to a train crossing in Davenport.
	Bettendorf students recognized by National Merit Scholarship program Three seniors were named semifinalists, with a fourth receiving an award for commendable merit.
	‘Try to explain to me that’s OK’: Davenport alderman said he’s heard racist epithets in City Hall Ald. Tim Kelly said last week he’d heard fellow council members using racist terms. On Monday, pastors and community organizers said city leaders haven’t responded and that the matter deserves more attention.
	USP Thomson issues statement on possible government shut down American Federation of Government Employees AFGE Local 4070 President Jon Zumkehr issued a statement on Sunday regarding the possible government shut down.
	Train delays Quad Cities Marathon mid-race The race's director said his team communicates with Canadian Pacific every year about when the train needs to be delayed for the marathon.
	Humane Society of Scott County celebrates pets with fee-waived adoptions In celebration of Dog Week, Humane Society of Scott County is hosting a ‘Name Your Price’ adoption promotion for adult dogs and cats, allowing people to decide the adoption fee themselves.
	“4bles” Foibles: “Expend4bles,” “Dumb Money,” “Cassandro,” and “It Lives Inside” Because the competition is so fierce, it's hard to say which scene in director Scott Waugh's action sequel Expend4bles is the most repellent. And for the sake of time and our collective sanity, I'm going to ignore every multitudinous instance of brains being splattered via gunfire, the effects for which look like they were added post-production with a red magic marker.
	Additional college readiness funding coming for low-income students in Iowa More than $25 million is up for grabs from the U.S. Department of Education's GEAR UP program.
	How can I get my free COVID-19 tests? People can start ordering free at-home COVID tests again. You can request four tests through the special government website. Every U.S. household may place an order to receive four free COVID-⁠19 rapid tests delivered directly to your home. The Biden Administration stopped issuing them in June to conserve supplies. The relaunch of the free program for the fall and winter months is for when COVID infection rates are expected to be higher.
	6 displaced following house fire in Moline No injuries were reported in the incident, which is still under investigation.
	Galesburg Police arrest man wanted in weekend stabbing The Galesburg Police Department has found a man they had been looking for since Saturday in connection to a weekend stabbing.
	Three Bettendorf seniors are semifinalists in National Merit Scholarship program The recognition went to Zachariah Stone, Michael Farmer, and Kaelee Wolf. Charlie Silver received a commendable merit.
	Davenport Black community speaks out about racism used against alderman 5th Ward Alderman Tim Kelly claims that city coworkers used racially charged language against him.
	Humane Society of Scott County to host pet food distribution Inflation is affecting everything from food to gas, and the Humane Society of Scott County is reminding everyone that pets are family, too, as they host a pet food distribution event. Celina Rippel from the Humane Society of Scott County spoke with Local 4 about all the details. For more information, click here.
	National Headlines on The Current: September 25, 2023 The WGA has a tentative deal with Hollywood studios, the UAW strike continues, and more.
	Adventureland kicks off Fall Fest The park is open for regular hours but will have some additional spooky surprises after 6 p.m.
	Learn about fire safety at the 9th annual ‘Fire Muster & Lights & Siren Parade’, Sunday The ninth annual ‘Fire Muster & Lights & Siren Parade’ will take place on Saturday in the Village of East Davenport and will feature a fire truck show, fire safety tips, live music, and food vendors.
	Davenport alderman says racist language was used against him The claims come from 5th Ward Alderman Tim Kelly, the lone Black member of Davenport City Council.
	Illinois communities to receive grants to fix blighted homes Some Illinois communities are getting money to fix damaged or deteriorated properties. A home restoration project in Rock Island is an example of how it works. Galesburg, Moline, Monmouth and Rock Island are getting part of a $19,000,000 Illinois Housing Authority Grant. The program is designed to support local revitalization efforts and attract further investment in communities that may lack the resources needed to tackle vacant, abandoned and deteriorated properties.
	Time for Toys for Tots registration Even though the holidays are still months away, an area holiday tradition is gearing up and an annual motorcycle ride is helping out. Registration for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves’ Toys for Tots program starts in early October. Online toy applications open Sunday, October 1. In person verification starts Friday, October 20. The online toy applications close on Friday, November 24 and in person verification ends Sunday, December 3. Click here to register, then click on “Request a Toy”. Children ages six months-12 years old are eligible. After registering online, parents must verify their information in person with an ID and the children’s birth certificates. Verification is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., from October 20 until December 2. There will be no registration on November 10-11. The verification office is located at 1 Montgomery Drive in Moline. The Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program is in its 76th year. Locally, over 6,600 children received more than 29,000 toys across six counties in Iowa and Illinois. Sunday, October 1st is the 39th annual A.B.A.T.E. of Iowa toy run, where motorcyclists can donate a toy to the program and participate in a ride. Registration for the event starts at 11 a.m. and the ride starts at 1 p.m. For more information on Toys for Tots, click here.
	Galesburg receives grant to further housing revitalization The City of Galesburg has been awarded a grant through the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Strong Communities Program to support community revitalization efforts.
	Iowa receives more than $25 million in funding to help low-income students prepare for college The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Education's GEAR UP program.
	FOR SALE: Davenport Community Schools to sell school building Here's something you don't see every day - Davenport Community Schools will have a 'for sale' sign on one of its school buildings. Buchanan Elementary School, located at 4515 N. Fairmount St., Davenport will be up for sale, and the Davenport School Board is expected to approve a contract with Mel Foster Commercial Real Estate to sell the property. The list prices is just over $1,000,000. Davenport closed the school last year as part of a district realignment.
	Pet of the Week - Jersey \| Sept. 25, 2023 If you would like to adopt Jersey, visit the Quad City Animal Welfare Center's adoption center.
	Davenport City Council faces racial scandal toward member With Davenport's primary election just over two weeks away, controversy is on the table for Davenport's City Council. Davenport Mayoral candidate Ken Croken addressed an issue brought to light by Alderman Tim Kelly in last week's meeting. Alderman Kelly mentioned being called racial slurs in the meetingand spoke about being mistreated as a city councilmen. Representative Croken and other community leaders gave their thoughts on the matter and how change is in order for the Davenport City Council.
	Crews respond to 2 fires Sunday, investigation ongoing in vehicle fire The Galesburg Fire Department responded to a vehicle and house fire Sunday.
	Rock Island changes some refuse pickup schedules Change is coming to Rock Island’s refuse collection schedule. The city is implementing changes in refuse collection days for certain neighborhoods, starting the week of October 2. For residents participating in the Yard Waste Collection Program and/or the Curbside Recycling Program, collection days will remain the same. The trash collection day is being changed to be picked up on the same day as the yard waste collection day. This should simplify the waste management process for residents and provide a more convenient experience for all residents. Residents whose refuse collection day is changing should have received a letter in the mail with your new collection date. For those who didn’t receive a letter, the collection day will remain the same. Refuse carts must be at the designated collection point no later than 7 a.m. on collection day. For information on refuse collection dates, including the holiday collection schedule, click here.
	Muscatine man sentenced, guilty of child sexual abuse, sexual exploitation A Muscatine County man was sentenced on Friday, Sept. 22 after being found guilty of multiple counts of sex abuse related charges back in July.
	Rock Island Police K-9 officer dies after medical procedure The Rock Island Police Department is dealing with the loss of their K-9 officer. According to a post on the department's Facebook page, K-9 Sparky Jackson underwent a medical procedure last week, but he experienced serious complications afterward. His health declined significantly, and Sparky died on Friday, September 22nd. Sparky Jackson was a four-year-old Belgian Malinois and worked alongside his handler, Officer Alex Bowman, since March 2021. Sparky was responsible for finding controlled substances, firearms and suspects, as well as participating in numerous search warrants and K-9 demonstrations.
	5 Quad City communities receiving a total of $2M for neighborhood revitalization Galesburg, Monmouth, Macomb, Moline and Rock Island will all split the money to help revitalize older neighborhoods.
	Rock Falls Police investigating car burglaries Police in Rock Falls are dealing with a rash of vehicle burglaries in the city early today. In a news release from the Rock Falls Police Department, during the early morning hours of Monday, September 25, at least three unlocked vehicles were burglarized in the south and west parts of the city. One of the vehicles was stolen from the residence. The stolen car is a grey 2006 Chevy Impala with Illinois registration AU81349. It is believed to have minor crash damage on the front driver side corner. Rock Falls police officers have collected private surveillance videos that show a small white 4-door car driving in the area of these burglaries. The car appears to be occupied by at least two other people involved in these crimes. Rock Falls Police reminds the public to ensure their vehicles’ doors are locked and the keys and any valuables are removed. Anyone with information about these crimes should contact the Rock Falls Police Department at (815) 622-1140.
	Rock Falls Police Department warns of vehicle theft and vandalism The Rock Falls Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying at least three individuals involved in an early morning car theft and vandalism of at least three other vehicles.
	Friendship Manor plans $12.5M in upgrades After years of growth, challenges and changes to the senior living landscape, Friendship Manor of Rock Island on Monday announced a $12.5-million plan for a series of upgrades and major improvements. This significant funding will allow the facility (1209 21st Ave., Rock Island) to continue its legacy of providing superb senior care across all levels of retirement, the continuing care community said in a press release. The campaign, “Then, Now, Forever: Re-establishing Friendship 2024,” honors the longevity of its past with an eye toward the strength of its future. Friendship Manor retirement community is at 1209 21st Ave., Rock Island. With construction starting in December 2023, this substantial investment in the Rock Island community will bring new amenities and a campus refresh, including: Relaunching the Independent Living Apartments as the Terraces at Friendship Manor with fully renovated apartments, hallways and a new dining room, pub and activity spaces A new state-of-the-art Therapy & Fitness Center with walking track for residents Expanded and upgraded dining at the 1209 Bistro Aesthetic, modern updates throughout Assisted Living, including six renovated ADA apartments Improvements to Silver Cross skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, including a spacious new spa room, new hard surface flooring and other cosmetic upgrades Opening of The Chrysalis Suites at Silver Cross — two dedicated end-of-life suites for the comfort and dignity of residents and their families Infrastructure care, including deck repairs, new water heaters, replacement windows, and updates to the HVAC system including new fan coils, new chiller with backup generator power and more Under the 18 years of leadership of president and CEO Ted Pappas Jr., Friendship Manor has experienced solid and consistent growth, and looks forward to this next phase of progress, the release said. “With this exciting strategic plan to re-establish Friendship Manor in 2024, I’m confident that our ministry will remain strong into the next decade and beyond as we continue to honor our mothers and fathers with the guarantee of care for life,” Pappas said. Friendship Manor’s history began in 1942 with the generous donation of the Harry Cleaveland family home to the Illinois branch of the King’s Daughters and Sons. This 12-room home was modified to house the aging members of the organization. Since the beginning, the Manor’s connection with the KDS Illinois Branch has given it a strong faith-based, non-profit foundation, with a dedication of giving value and dignity to every person they serve. In 1977, the organization moved to build the current campus known as Friendship Manor, officially opening its doors in July 1979. Throughout the decades, Friendship Manor has continued to serve QC seniors, rising to meet the changing needs and desires for retirement. For more information, click HERE.
	Davenport man sentenced in connection to May 2022 fatal crash A Davenport man has been sentenced in connection to a May 2022 crash that left a man dead.
	Move over pumpkin spice, it's CurderBurger season: Culver's novelty menu item to return Like last year, Culver's will sell the curd-topped burger for a limited time starting Oct. 2.
	Find fall break fun at the Rock Island Public Library The Rock Island Public Library has plenty of activities to entertain students who will be on fall break soon. Family Game Night on Wednesday, September 27 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. gets the fall fun started. Since there’s no school the next day because of conferences, families can try out the library’s new games. They will have a wide selection of oversized yard games, family board games and STEM games available in the Community Room. Preschool games and activities will be in the Children’s Room. The library is located at 401 19th Street in Rock Island. Fall break for Rock Island/Milan Schools runs from Monday, October 2 to Friday, October 13. During the break, the library will offer drop-in activities in the Downtown Library Children’s Room. From October 2 - 7, the library will offer FrankenSTEAM week, with special monster-themed STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) stations in the Children’s Room. Kids can build a monster, learn about electric circuits, find monster books and more. October 9 - 14 is Rocket into Reading Week, featuring a variety of space learning stations for exploring, play and learning. Both themed-week activities are free and open to families. Library patrons can stop by for drop-in exploration and fun during regular Downtown Library hours, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday -Friday and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturdays. If that wasn’t enough to keep the family entertained, library card holders can check out a seven-day culture pass to local museums and attractions. Not only does the library have the usual books, music, movies and games to check out but also yard games, craft tools, baking equipment and sports items through its Library of Things collection. RIPL cardholders who are planning a family trip in the state during break can search for statewide passes and discounts available through the library’s membership in Explore More Illinois. To see what’s available, visit Digital Resources or the Culture Pass pages here. For more information about the Rock Island Library and its programs, click here or call 309-732-READ.
	Davenport man sentenced to prison in fatal 2020 funeral home shooting A Davenport man was sentenced to prison in the 2020 shooting death of Jeramie Shorter outside a Davenport funeral home.
	I-74 bridge seems to disappear during dense morning fog Monday The dense fog is expected again on Tuesday. Make sure to add a few extra minutes to your morning commute!
	12th annual Senior and Disability Expo coming to Bally's Quad Cities Over 45 vendors will pass along educational materials pertaining to healthy living, fraud prevention and assistive devices.
	Moline Fire Department responds to structure fire Sunday All residents were able to escape.
	Transforming boundaries of perception: New Figge Art Museum installation opening to the public What initially looks like some cardboard boxes may leave people amazed.
	Five QC area communities to receive nearly $2 million to revitalize properties Five area cities have received almost $2 in funding that they plan to use to revitalize their communities. In a news release, State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island) announced that Galesburg, Macomb, Moline, Monmouth and Rock Island will receive a combined total of $1,946,000 to support community revitalization efforts. “Community blight and vacant properties are a detriment to growth and economic development,” said Halpin. “Getting some of the blight cleaned up is good for property values and gives families and businesses alike all the more reason to move in.” The Illinois Housing Development Authority approved $19 million to support affordable housing and community revitalization efforts across the state. The initiative is awarded under the Strong Communities Program and will provide funding to 68 units of local governments and land bank authorities for the acquisition, maintenance, rehabilitation and demolition of abandoned residential properties in their communities. The program will support local revitalization efforts and attract further investment in communities that may lack the resources needed to tackle vacant, abandoned and deteriorated properties. Cities receiving funding in the second round of the Strong Communities Program include: Galesburg: $562,000 Macomb: $487,000 Moline: $417,000 Monmouth: $212,000 Rock Island: $268,000 The grants are funded by the Rebuild Illinois capital plan and will use IHDA’s existing funding to increase property values, create jobs, help reduce crime, generate additional tax revenue and attract further community investment in underserved communities around Illinois. A total of $30 million in grant funding has been awarded through two application rounds. To learn more about the Stronger Communities Program, click here.
	Bettendorf High seniors recognized by National Merit Scholarship Program Four seniors from Bettendorf High School have been recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Michael Farmer, Kaelee Wolf and Zachariah Stone received recognition as National Merit Semifinalists. Charlie Silver received Commendable Merit. Bettendorf High School National Merit seniors: Zachariah Stone, Michael Farmer, and Kaelee Wolf. Commendable Merit (not pictured): Charlie Silver "BHS prides itself on a rigorous curriculum with clear learning outcomes. The staff provides engaging learning experiences and course offerings, including honors and advanced placement courses, that challenge students to achieve their highest potential," said Principal Kristy Cleppe. "We are immensely proud of these students and all previously recognized students, as well as the teachers who prepared them. With this level of achievement, these students and staff exemplify commitment in the pursuit of excellence." Merit Scholarship Semifinalists must advance to the final of the competition by meeting several requirements. About 90% of the Semifinalists are expected to reach the finals and about half of the Finalists will be chosen as Merit Scholarship winners and earn the Merit Scholar title. Around 1.3 million high school juniors in nearly 21,000 high schools entered the 2024 National Merit Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which was an initial screening of program entrants. The Semifinalists represent less than 1% percent of U.S. high school seniors, including the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is equal to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors. A Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the school principal and receive SAT scores that confirm the earlier qualifying test performance to become a Finalist. The Semifinalist and a school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, including the student’s self-descriptive essay and information about the Semifinalist’s participation and leadership in school and community activities. The NMSC was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Program. It’s a not-for-profit organization that operates without help or funding from the government. Scholarships awarded through the program are underwritten by NMSC’s own funds and around 500 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence. For more information on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation and its programs, click here.
	Bethany and Bridgeview merge Bethany for Children & Families and Bridgeview Community Health Center are joining forces. Bethany (which serves the greater Quad Cities area) and Bridgeview (of Clinton, Iowa) are two leading social services and mental health care organizations. They announced Monday that they have merged to "better deliver mission-driven, high-quality, and compassionate care to those in need." After many meetings and months of sharing information and insights on how best to serve thecommunities, the merger establishes a management agreement between Bethany and Bridgeview, according to a Monday release. The unification of staff members is advantageous to both Bethany and Bridgeview and creates an economy of scale and synergy, which benefits both organizations and the clients they serve, they said. This transition maintains the corporate structure of both organizations, while being governed by a single Board of Directors. The merger coincides with the retirement of Bridgeview executive director Paul Blair, after more than 25 years of service. Bethany president and CEO Bill Steinhauser, will provide leadership to both organizations. Bridgeview Community Mental Health Center, at 1320 19th Avenue NW in Clinton, employs 34 people and has an annual budget of $3.2 million. Bethany for Children & Families, withheadquarters at 1701 River Drive in Moline, employs a dedicated staff of 90 social workers,licensed therapists, educators, and licensed case managers, along with Human Resources, business, and support staff. With an annual budget of $9.6 million, Bethany said it continues to expand its therapeuticfootprint to help the most vulnerable.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities headlines for Sept. 25, 2023 A Moline house fire displaces seven people this week, and families can begin reordering free COVID tests. Rock Island pickleball courts also getting upgrades.
	REVIEW: Illuminating Forest Grove film shows power of community It not only takes a village to raise a child, but the new documentary film “Resurrecting Forest Grove” shows how it takes a village to bring an old, abandoned school back to life. The characteristically beautiful, illuminating and important hour-long film byKelly and Tammy Rundle of Moline-based Fourth Wall Films was given its world premiere to an appreciative, sold-out crowd Saturday, Sept. 23 at the Putnam Giant Screen Theater. "Resurrecting Forest Grove" had its world premiere Saturday, Sept. 23 at the Putnam Giant Screen Theater, Davenport. The former one-room school at 24040 Forest Grove Drive, Bettendorf — was built in 1873 and closed in 1957. Restoration began in 2012 and was completed in 2019. Forest Grove is refurbished to its 1920s appearance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Like the seven-year painstaking, meticulous restoration work, the making of the new documentary took patience and persistence. The Rundles started making the film in 2012, to document the long process of restoring the ramshackle, totally dilapidated, empty gray building. The Rundles amazingly found time to put together “Resurrecting Forest Grove” over the period they also made 19 other films. “We’ve had the privilege to be there and observe first-hand many of these moments,” Kelly said Saturday. “It’s not a comprehensive telling of this story, for sure. It’s really just what we happened to see.” He remembered several people in the new film who have since passed away, including Iowa historian Tom Morain, who died Oct. 10, 2020, after a battle with cancer. Tammy and Kelly Rundle of Moline filming inside the restored one-room school in Bettendorf. “You’re seeing these amazing images, and this film project was extremely inspirational for us,” Tammy Rundle (Kelly’s husband and filmmaking partner) said. She called Forest Grove project leader Sharon Andresen “a visionary.” When the Rundles were standing outside the building in a 2009 blizzard as part of filming for their 2010 “Country School” doc, Tammy thought, “Do not stand close to that schoolhouse. That thing is coming down. Just step away from that.” The dilapidated 1873 former school as it looked in December 2009. Andresen later stood there and said, “I think we can save this schoolhouse,” Tammy recalled. “My favorite part was meeting Sharon, meeting the Blunk family, the amazing storytellers that we met. My favorite part of our work is when we get to talk to and interview and meet these people, and hear their stories. That’s when it comes to life for me. That’s when Forest Grove came to life for me.” A death, then resurrection I love the inspiring tagline of the new movie (“A Death. A Vision. A Miracle.”) and the profoundly inspirational message of the film – that iconic old buildings that play a central role in society are worth saving and that a community that bands together for that common goal can realize their dreams. “Resurrecting Forest Grove” starts in December 2009, when all appeared lost. The footage (during a snow storm) of the dilapidated shell of the school was captured for the end of the Fourth Wall’s 2010 documentary, “Country School: One Room – One Nation,” in which the Rundles visited 100 such schools in Iowa, Kansas and Wisconsin. The former school as it appeared in 2012, when work started. Forest Grove School No. 5 (celebrating its 150th anniversary this year) first opened in 1873 and enrolled upwards of 30 students each year ranging in age from 5 to 14. The children (taught by one teacher) came from within a 2-mile radius to attend school. Bringing along their books, which they had purchased in nearby Princeton, their subjects included math, reading and writing, spelling, geography, history and English, according to the school website. The school remained in use until 1957, when it was closed and purchased by Delbert Blunk who attended the school when he was a young boy. His family had farmed the land around the school for a century. Some of the best interviews in the new film are of some former teachers and students from Forest Grove, recalling their memories. One teacher said she made $175; Tammy asked if that was per week, and she laughed, saying that was per month. Some of the former students attended the Putnam premiere. Footage and interviews gathered over a decade depict the problems that volunteers faced and the solutions they employed as they attempted to bring this 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. Community members provided labor and materials at a discount or no charge, including donations of floorboards and slate chalkboards from three nearby schools, two of which had been demolished. After years of neglect, Sharon Andresen worked with the Quad Cities Community Foundation to raise money in 2012, and then formed Forest Grove School Preservation as a non-profit corporation to bring new life back to the dilapidated, then-gray shell of a school. The Blunk family donated the property to the nonprofit and in the film Rod Blunk fights back tears as he speaks of how impressed he was with the finished product and why people should see it. Sharon Andresen, head of Forest Grove School Preservation, the nonprofit that owns the property. While the total renovation cost about $250,000, about one-quarter was supported by state historic preservation tax credits, she said, noting Cedar Rapids architect Doug Steinmetz oversaw the work. That included rebuilding of the bell tower, as it had appeared in the ‘20s, but was lost, and the Blunks supplied the original bell. Of course, another film highlight is the 2016 placement of the new tower back on the top of the school. Putting a new cedar-shingled roof on the building. The Rundles also captured footage at the first Forest Grove fundraiser, a September 2012 car wash, and a later trivia night. We see each major piece of the building preservation -- from the new cedar-shingled roof, new front door and lettering, new flooring, and painting. Putting new lettering at the entrance. With assistance from architect Doug Steinmetz, volunteers worked from historic photos to reconstruct the structure’s bell tower, windows and doors, foundation, roof, and signage. The restoration project was featured in the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s magazine, Preservation, in 2018. In 2022, the project was honored by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs with the Adrian D. Anderson Award. It recognized outstanding preservation of a smaller historic preservation project that uses tax credits from State Historic Preservation and Cultural & Entertainment District programs. The award is named for a highly regarded archaeologist who helped found Iowa’s State Historic Preservation Office and served as its first leader. This May, the school received official designation as a Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area Site. The restored historic schoolhouse first opened to the public May 22, 2021. In August 2021, about a mile to the west (at 6100 Forest Grove Drive), the new Forest Grove Elementary opened to serve the Pleasant Valley Community School District. The two-year-old Forest Grove Elementary School is at 6100 Forest Grove Drive, Bettendorf. Q & A panel In a panel discussion following the first of two Saturday showings, Andresen praised Ben Taylor of Pleasant Valley (who's briefly interviewed in the film), the master carpenter, who led the renovations. “I have never worked with a person who is so meticulous in that particular craft. He was just phenomenal," she said. "We struggled through things together. When we came out the other side, it looked fabulous.” The Rundles outside the restored school, finished in 2019, to its 1920s appearance with a rebuilt bell tower and the school's original bell. Taylor reflected the film's title in bringing the school (once the hub of the community) "back from the grave," he said on screen. Andresen said her family was incredibly tolerant during the project. They had over 600 donors who contributed money for the work. “They’re all part of the project,” she said in the Q & A. “It’s not me; it’s this whole community of people who came together and said, ‘We like this, we’re going to support it so you can keep going.’” Kelly noted there was skepticism over whether it could be done and he asked Andresen when there was a turning point in the work. “It took me a really long time for me to get over that someone had doubted me so profoundly,” she said. “We saved an old building that’s a great piece of history. That was the first hurdle we had to get over. There was no ulterior motive – I wanted to see this great historic gem restored.” The real turning point was when Goodwin House Movers actually raised the building off its foundation “and it didn’t crumble into a million pieces,” Andresen said. “I knew as long as this thing could stand solid, we could do the rest. I knew that.” The school is on the National Register of Historic Places. Kelly said their first regional Emmy nomination was for "Country School," but they didn’t win their first (which he unveiled Saturday) until 2022 for the 10-minute museum film short, “Remembering Forest Grove,” which can only be seen in the school. “To me, teachers have the second-most important role in society, after being a parent,” Kelly said. “But we don’t always treat them that way.” He asked all teachers in the audience to stand as well to be recognized. “What we’re celebrating are the stories that took place within that building when it was operating as a one-room school, and the stories that are taking place around the renovation of this school,” Kelly said. Bill Sherman, an expert on Iowa one-room schoolhouses and editor of the book Iowa’s Country Schools: Landmarks of Learning, called “Resurrecting Forest Grove” a wonderful documentary and “the best is yet to come.” Saturday's event coincided with the weekend 2023 Iowa Country School Preservation Conference in Clinton, and attracted visitors from across the nation. “We’re going to have hundreds of school groups visiting Forest Grove. They’re gonna go home and talk to their parents, talk to their friends,” Sherman said. “You’re gonna have senior citizen groups that want to come out and visit a one-room school. Many of the people in senior homes went to one-room schools. “They’re going to look at this wonderful documentary and it’s gonna bring back memories they want to relive,” Sherman said. “Ninety percent of the people that I talk to have very positive experiences they want to share with people.” “Tammy and Kelly are wonderful documentary producers; we’re lucky to have them living in Iowa,” he said, noting they could easily make more money in L.A. or New York. Kelly later joked that they actually live in Illinois. Part of the Forest Grove-related items on display Sept. 23 outside the Putnam Giant Screen Theater. Putnam CEO Rachael Mullins said before the screening that the museum's partnership with Fourth Wall Films "has been a treasure,” noting their work is closely aligned to the Putnam’s mission, “to bring to life a sense of place, time and purpose to ignite human potential and inspire diverse communities to learn about our world and all its people.” Mullins called “Resurrecting Forest Grove” an “iconic moment,” representing local history and “our love of history.” It shows that the Rundles are not only dedicated, tremendous filmmakers, but they too are teachers, providing priceless images, interviews and information to people that will be valued for generations to come. For more information on Forest Grove School Preservation, click HERE. For more on the film, click HERE.
	Galesburg Fire Department deals with 2 fires; dogs rescued at 1, vehicle lost in another The Galesburg Fire Department was busy with two fires yesterday. The department was called to a vehicle fire near a residence in the 900 block of N. Kellogg Street on Sunday, September 24, at 8:22 a.m. The response included personnel from Central Fire Station and Fremont Fire Station and eight personnel on duty. When they arrived on the scene, firefighters found a vehicle with fire coming from the rear driver's side and the passenger compartment. The Fremont Station crew used an attack line to extinguish the fire while the Central Station crew established a water supply. The vehicle was determined to be a total loss, but there was no damage to the residence and no injuries were reported. The preliminary damage estimate is $13,000. The vehicle fire was determined to be intentionally set and is under investigation by Galesburg Fire and Police Investigators. Anyone with information on this fire should call the Galesburg Fire Department at (309) 345-3756. The department was later called to a structure fire in the 300 block of N. Whitesboro Street on Sunday, September 24 at 4:28 p.m. The response included all three stations and 11 personnel on duty. When they arrived, firefighters found heavy smoke coming from a basement window and an open doorway. Battalion Chief Brackett established command while the Brooks Street Station crew used a line to make a quick attack from the exterior before entering the structure to extinguish the fire. The Central Station Crew performed a search of the residence while the Fremont Station Crew improved interior smoke conditions with ventilation. Two dogs were rescued from the home by a passerby before the fire department arrived. No one was home at the time of the fire, which caused smoke and fire damage to the basement. The interior of the home sustained heavy smoke and water damage throughout. No injuries were reported by residents, firefighters or dogs. Preliminary damage estimates are at $10,000. The department issued an emergency callback of off-duty fire personnel to provide emergency coverage for the city. Fire investigators determined the cause of this fire to be unintentional.
	Muscatine County man sentenced on multiple charges for sexual abuse of a minor A Muscatine County man has been sentenced on sex abuse charges, according to a news release from the Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office. George Wesley Bishop II, 45, appeared in Muscatine County District Court on September 22 for sentencing after being found guilty on multiple counts of sex abuse related charges on July 21. He was sentenced to a maximum of 45 years in prison, the release said. The sex abuse 2nd degree, a class B felony, carries a 25-year maximum sentence with a mandatory minimum period of confinement of 70% before being eligible for parole. The sex abuse 3rd degree, a class C felony, and sexual exploitation of a minor, a class C felony, carry a 10-year maximum sentence each. All sentences were ordered to run consecutively to one another, or one after the other. Bishop must register as a sex offender and upon release from prison, will be placed on supervision. Case background Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were called to Trinity Muscatine on March 7, 2022 after a minor reported they had been sexually abused by George Wesley Bishop II, age 44, of Muscatine County. The Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation based on the information gathered, where evidence gathered showed that Bishop had sexually abused the minor multiple times over several years. Bishop was arrested on March 11, 2022 on charges of crimes relating to sexual abuse of a minor and sexual exploitation of a minor. On Friday, July 21, 2023, Bishop was found guilty of one count of sex abuse in the second degree, a class B felony, three counts of sex abuse in the third degree, a class C Felony, and three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, a class C felony.
	Sandburg College exceeds 'Extraordinary' campaign Carl Sandburg College Foundation and Sandburg’s College of Nursing on Friday announced they have exceeded their goal in the 100 Extraordinary Women campaign. The campaign, which launched in March, sought to raise $100,000 through a minimum of 100 donations or pledges of $1,000. Through the generosity of alumni and community members, employees and current students, Sandburg has now reached 104% of that goal, the Friday release said. Money raised through the campaign will go to support nursing student success. “The successful completion of the 100 Extraordinary Women campaign is a testament to the strong support in our community for our nursing graduates,” Sandburg president Dr. Seamus Reilly said. “This campaign celebrates current and former students in our nursing programs and provides funding for the next generation of nurses in our district. Carl Sandburg College is grateful to our donors for their incredible generosity.” A recognition event for participating donors will take place from 1:30-3 p.m. Sunday., Sept. 24 in the Student Center on Sandburg’s Galesburg campus. A rendering of the planned Carl Sandburg College Science and Technology Center, to open in fall 2024. Additionally, the name of every donor or every woman honored as part of the 100 Extraordinary Women campaign will be permanently listed in the College of Nursing as part of Sandburg's new Science and Technology Center, which is scheduled to open for the 2024 fall semester. “We are so incredibly thankful to all of these donors for their commitment to Sandburg students and their appreciation for the roles nurses play in our lives,” said Dr. Emily Schaeffer, dean of nursing professions. “Campaigns like this are truly impactful. This will help students change their lives and their families’ lives, possibly for decades to come.” Proceeds from the campaign help remove educational barriers for students such as daycare costs and availability, reliable transportation and fuel prices. They also relieve the financial hardship related to the inability for students to work many hours during the program as well as the initial textbook costs and fees for stethoscopes, uniforms and clinical supplies. Commitments also assist with end-of-program costs such as board fees and fingerprinting. "The donations and support we’ve gained from nursing alumni, area citizens, district-wide leaders and Sandburg employees and trustees, coupled with increased funds from our Sandburg Foundation, has enabled us to allocate $30,000 per year over the next five years in nursing success grants,” said Eric Johnson, chief advancement officer for the Sandburg Foundation. “This will help impact nearly 75% of our nursing professions students," he said. "Prior to this initiative, the amounts awarded in the last five years ranged from $3,000-$9,770, assisting less than 25% of our nursing professions students. Just since the start of the current semester, our Sandburg Foundation has already awarded $16,000 to 32 nursing professions students, in $500 awards through our nursing success grants." While the 100 Extraordinary Women campaign goal has been met, you can still join the initiative or give in honor of an extraordinary woman by visiting the website HERE. Donors can make their payment in one amount, donate annually or make bimonthly gifts. Individuals may also group together to share their pledge, and anyone may give in honor or in memory of a special woman. The 100 Extraordinary Women campaign is a nationwide effort -- an online fundraising platform for nonprofits, offering an easy and effective way to raise significant funds among women.
	Bettendorf begins final phase of the Forest Grove Drive Project Monday The City of Bettendorf will start its final phase of The Forest Grove Drive Reconstruction Project Monday, after beginning work in 2022.
	Good Morning from WVIK for Monday, September 25th, 2023 Record Year for Book Bans in ILIowa 1 of 23 States with High Obesity RateClean Energy in IL is Big Business
	UAW expanding strike across US after week of negotiation issues UAW workers are expanding their strike without new contract agreement. President Biden has also announced he will join workers on the picket line.
	'Day of Atonement' being observed this Monday Followers of the Jewish faith are celebrating Yom Kippur this Monday, otherwise known as the "Day of Atonement". Many will attend services and fast for the holiday.
	Quad Cities Marathon coming to close, hear who took home first place In the men's division Abraham Talam Kipkemei finished the race in over two hours. On the women's side Damaris Areba finished again, defending her previous title.
	WIU hosting couple of events for students At the WIU Macomb campus Olympic gymnast Katelyn Ohashi will give a presentation, and closer to the Quad Cities, WIU will host a career expo.
	WGA members and Hollywood studios meeting for contract negotiations After 146 days on the picket line WGA representatives and Hollywood studios have reached a tentative agreement, which now awaits a vote from union leaders.
	Rock Island park expanding pickleball courts Upgrades have been planned for Mel McKay Park. These construction plans will add six new courts and parking lot improvements.
	House fire in Moline displacing seven people, no injuries reported A fire started in a three-story building early Sunday afternoon in Moline. Crews were able to quickly put out the fire, but six adults and one child are homeless.
	Suspect remains at large in connection to Galesburg stabbing 37-year-old Jeremiah Bradfield is wanted in connection to an attempted murder last Saturday. Anyone with tips on Bradfield should call their local police department.
	Attempted murder suspect sought in Galesburg Jeremiah J. Bradfield, 37, has been identified as the suspect in an attempted murder in Galesburg on Saturday night.
	START THE WEEK OFF RIGHT: A focus on eczema October is right around the corner, and it happens to be Eczema Awareness Month, which may be news to you.
	Illinois’ SAFE-T Act Promises an Undiscovered Country’s Worth of Complications Hannah Meisel’s recent report for Capitol News Illinois included a line that jumped out at me: “Per state law - which hasn’t been updated since 1949 - only counties with 35,000 or more residents are required to set up offices of public defender.”
	Thomson Prison faces government shutdown, pay cut: Union window.loadAnvato({"mcp":"LIN","width":"100%","height":"100%","video":"9024991","autoplay":false,"expect_preroll":true,"pInstance":"p0","plugins":{"comscore":{"clientId":"6036439","c3":"ourquadcities.com","version":"5.2.0","useDerivedMetadata":true,"mapping":{"c3":"ourquadcities.com","ns_st_st":"whbf","ns_st_pu":"Nexstar","ns_st_ge":"News,Video","c4":"vod"}},"dfp":{"adTagUrl":"https://pubads.g.doubleclick.net/gampad/ads?sz=1x1000&iu=/5678/nx.whbf/news/local_news/landing&impl=s&gdfp_req=1&env=vp&output=vmap&unviewed_position_start=1&ad_rule=1&description_url=https://www.ourquadcities.com/news/local-news/feed/&cust_params=vid%3D9024991%26pers_cid%3Dunknown%26vidcat%3D/news/local_news%26bob_ck%3D[bob_ck_val]%26d_code%3D1%26pagetype%3Dsubindex%26hlmeta%3Dlocal%20news%26aa%3Df","isFreewheel":false},"nielsen":{"apid":"PE960F05F-339A-432F-86B1-464685BDDB37","sfcode":"dcr","type":"dcr","apn":"Anvato","environment":"production","useDerivedMetadata":true,"mapping":{"adloadtype":2,"adModel":2}},"segmentCustom":{"script":"https://segment.psg.nexstardigital.net/anvato.js","writeKey":"pHTh01LNodgBw3bclBmxxhrOBUbDktVw","pluginsLoadingTimeout":12}},"accessKey":"Rawk5AaOEXxaRCRo2zCnBckdB3Ky0dnD","token":"eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJ2aWQiOiI5MDI0OTkxIiwiaXNzIjoiUmF3azVBYU9FWHhhUkNSbzJ6Q25CY2tkQjNLeTBkbkQiLCJleHAiOjE2OTU2MjkzNjN9.FWdz7lE8-J0K5pGUiDX_3vjpchVRv4Jj0jwSdqA_buk","expectPrerollTimeout":8,"nxs":{"mp4Url":"https://tkx.mp.lura.live/rest/v2/mcp/video/9024991?anvack=26qYwQV3rJ52OI2WxpUdpTDRpVdAMgG1&token=%7E5yi7dZoObES%2BPy5TYlalWbloGseZvo70MQ%3D%3D","enableFloatingPlayer":true},"disableMutedAutoplay":false,"recommendations":false,"expectPreroll":true,"titleVisible":true,"pauseOnClick":true,"trackTimePeriod":60,"isPermutiveEnabled":true,"isMinimizedEnabled":false,"pauseOnTabInactive":false,"isLeadMedia":false}); Employees at Thomson Prison face a government shutdown and a pay cut, according to a news release. American Federation of Government Employees AFGE Local 4070 President Jon Zumkehr on Sunday issued a statement: "We are facing a government shutdown and a 25% pay cut at USP Thomson. Congress needs to do its job to keep the 25% retention in place and do everything it can to avoid a shutdown," says Jon Zumkehr, president of AFGE 4070 at the prison. "All, federal law enforcement officers, are considered essential. Essential employees, even though they continue to work, are not paid while the government is shut down," Zumkehr. If a government shutdown happens it could have a dire impact amid an already challenging time for staffing and pay among Thomson Prison staff, he said in the release. "Staff should not have to choose between coming to work and not being able to pay for child care due to the government shutdown," he says in the release. "We're told that our 25% retention that Sen. Durbin, Sen. Duckworth, and former Representative Bustos secured to retain staff at USP Thomson will be removed." "We need the 25% retention to compete with the factories in the local area and lack of child care due to USP Thomson being in a remote location." According to Zumkehr, 147 staff have said they will leave USP Thomson if the 25% retention bonus is removed. USP Thomson has announced more than 50 jobs because of its new mission change, he said. It has faced "a retention crisis" since being converted to a federal prison.
	Local firefighters train for worst-case scenarios involving agricultural machines Over 40 firefighters from 13 departments participated in the training that included operations to rescue a person who had become victim of a rollover, entanglement or entrapment.
	UnityPoint Health Cancer Center and Gilda's Club Quad Cities offering free colon cancer screening kits UnityPoint Health and Gilda’s Club Quad Cities are teaming up to offer free at-home colon cancer screening kits.
	Project NOW announces start of energy assistance program Project NOW is the administrator of the Energy Assistance Program for Henry, Mercer and Rock Island counties..
	Rock Island fire hydrant flushing program to start Oct. 1 The Rock Island Public Works Department will begin fire hydrant flushing at 11 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 1.
Sunday, September 24th, 2023
	Hundreds gathered for the 11th annual Breaking the Silence Suicide Awareness Walk on Sunday The community of Camanche came together for the 11th annual Breaking the Silence Suicide Awareness Walk.
	Quad City Storm announces promotional schedule for 2023-2024 The Quad City Storm has announced its promotional schedule for the 2023-2024 season. The promotional schedule features themes, giveaways and events that add to the excitement of the Storm’s game experience. More information pertaining to the game promotions will be released over the course of the season, a news release says. SATURDAY, OCT. 21 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENThe Quad City Storm takes the ice for its fifth season Saturday, Oct. 21, versus cross staterival Peoria Rivermen. Opening Night is presented by Old National Bank and the first 1000 fans in attendance receive a 2023-2024 Storm magnet schedule and rally towel. Puck drop is at 7:10 and the entertainment will start early with a pregame concert in the arena parking lot. FRIDAY, OCT. 27 vs. ROANOKE RAIL YARD DAWGSDay of the Dead Night presented by Ray’z Barbershop returns and will once again feature food and craft vendors from Mercado on Fifth, specialty Day of the Dead-themed merchandise andspecialty jerseys that will be auctioned live post-game to raise money for Mercado on Fifth. Onthe ice, the Storm square off against the reigning SPHL champion Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs forgame one of a two game set. SATURDAY, OCT. 28 vs. ROANOKE RAIL YARD DAWGSThe Storm will host its first Hockey Is For Her Night presented by WLLR and iHeart Media. This game will feature local-women owned businesses and recognize outstanding achievements from female leaders, organizations and teams in the QCA. There will be a meet and greet pregame with a special guest. (quadcitystorm.com) SUNDAY, OCT. 29 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENHalloween comes early for Trick or Treat Day presented by Nestle Purina. Kids are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes and, after the game, all kids are invited to come down on to the ice and Trick or Treat with the players. Sunday also means it’s a Pucks and Paws day and dogs get in free. There will be a costume contest for kids and dogs in-game. FRIDAY, NOV. 10 vs. FAYETTEVILLE MARKSMENRock n’ Roll Night presented by 97X returns with a bang as the Storm welcome a rock group back to Vibrant Arena at the Mark for a head-banging post-game concert. In-game you'll hear the hits from the '70s, '80s and '90s. Wear your coolest band t-shirt, spike your hair and keep an eye out for the return of rock ‘n roll Twisty. SATURDAY, NOV. 11 vs. FAYETTEVILLE MARKSMENSalute to Military Night presented by QCA Pools and Spas returns for an unforgettable experience as we honor our active duty military and veterans. The night starts with a National Anthem and recognition will continue throughout the night with the songs of service and an enlistment ceremony on the ice. The ice will be covered with names of service members that will be painted on the ice by family and friends (the Salute to Military Night ice painting will take place Monday, Nov. 6, and is open to the public.) WEDNESDAY, NOV. 22 vs. EVANSVILLE THUNDERBOLTSBlackout Wednesday returns to kick off a busy holiday weekend. The Storm will be wearingtheir home-black jerseys and the first 1,000 fans get a free black t-shirt. It is also the first dollar beer night of the season, and the first home matchup with the Evansville Thunderbolts. FRIDAY, NOV. 24 vs. EVANSVILLE THUNDERBOLTSAfter you’ve wrapped up your Black Friday shopping, bring packaged socks and underwear tothe Storm game for the Holiday Sock Toss presented by Vintage Radio. When the Stormscores the first goal of the game fans will throw packaged socks and underwear onto the ice.The items will be collected and donated to local shelters and organizations that support people without housing. SATURDAY, NOV. 25 vs. EVANSVILLE THUNDERBOLTSWrestling Night returns bigger and better than ever. The first 1,000 fans in the arena get a freereplica jersey and SCW returns for a can’t-miss post-game wrestling show. And…stay tuned fora former WWE superstar to be named later who will be in the house for a pregame meet andgreet. FRIDAY, DEC. 8 vs. PENSACOLA ICE FLYERSScout Night has a special twist this season as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the BeagleScout on Peanuts Night presented by the Illowa Council. Special ticket offers will be availableto scouts and, back by popular demand, registered scouts will have the opportunity to spend thenight on the ice after the game. Specialty Peanuts jerseys will be auctioned online after thegame and fans will have the opportunity to win outdoor gear at the game like kayaks, grills andmore. SATURDAY, DEC. 9 vs. PENSACOLA ICE FLYERSJoin us as we celebrate Radar’s birthday with all of his mascot friends. The first 1,000 fans inattendance get a Radar bobblehead and all fans can enjoy the pregame funzone in theconference center. Stay tuned for a complete list of all the mascots that will be in the house. After the game, Radar’s Kids Club members can come on the ice for a meet-and-greet and birthday picture. FRIDAY, DEC. 15 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENJohn Deere Night is back and all John Deere employees receive two free tickets when they show their ID at the arena box office (Deere employees also receive BOGO tickets all season long). All fans are encouraged to get their tickets for the final game before Christmas. TUESDAY , DEC. 26 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENGet out of the house and bring the whole family to the first Winter Classic Night. The Storm will be wearing specialty retro jerseys and throwback merchandise will be available for sale in the team store. Enjoy dollar beers and sip on some hot chocolate to stay warm as the Storm battles Peoria in the #ColdWaron74. FRIDAY, DEC. 29 vs. EVANSVILLE THUNDERBOLTSSensory Awareness Night presented by Adolph’s Mexican Restaurant returns for a fun-fillednight enjoyable for all fans. Audio and visual levels and effects will be adjusted to an appropriate level for the entire game and a party area will be designated for fans who prefer to enjoy the game away from larger crowds. SATURDAY, DEC. 30 vs. EVANSVILLE THUNDERBOLTSBuild it, and they will come. Join us for the first Field of Dreams Night hockey game as theStorm battle the Evansville Thunderbolts. Baseball Storm merchandise and specialty jerseyswill be a part of a baseball-themed evening. FRIDAY, JAN. 19 vs. KNOXVILLE ICE BEARSRebrand Game #1 presented by TapOnIt! More info coming soon. SATURDAY, JAN. 20 vs. KNOXVILLE ICE BEARSRebrand Weekend #2 with a jersey auction presented by Bettendorf Financial. More infocoming soon. FRIDAY, JAN. 26 vs. MACON MAYHEMCalling all youth sports teams in the QCA and beyond. Youth Sports Night presented by Palmer Chiropractic returns as we recognize young athletes from all different sports. And 1,000 kids will go home with replica jerseys and you can guarantee your kid goes home with a jersey by booking their teams tickets through the youth sports group link. More info and a specialguest announcement are coming soon. SATURDAY, JAN. 27 vs. MACON MAYHEMHop in the Mystery Machine and head to The Mark for Scooby-Doo Night presented by theMachinists Union (IAM). Scooby-Doo jerseys will be worn in-game and auctioned to raise money for Tender Loving Canines and Guide Dogs of America. Keep an eye out for characters, special Scooby-Doo related merch and more on game night. THURSDAY, FEB. 1* vs. EVANSVILLE THUNDERBOLTSEducation Day presented by Chick-fil-A returns. Thousands of students will pack the arena for the loudest game of the season. A special 10 a.m. puck drop allows schools to bring students tothe game for an exciting life and educational experience. Students will learn about the science of hockey, hometowns (geography) of Storm players and even how to say "Go Storm!" in French and Swedish. FRIDAY, FEB. 2 vs. HUNTSVILLE HAVOCJoin us as we recognize Black-owned businesses, organizations and leaders in the QC with aCelebration of Black Excellence. More information on businesses, artists and more comingsoon. SATURDAY, FEB. 3 vs. HUNTSVILLE HAVOCDollar beers are back as we recognize organized labor on Union Night presented by theTri-City Building Trades Council. Unions can contact the Storm front office to book their tickets. FRIDAY, FEB. 9 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENHockey Fights Cancer Night presented by UnityPoint Health Trinity returns. The Hockey Fights Cancer ice painting will take place Feb, 5 and all names will remain on the ice for Saturday’s game. For the first time, specialty jerseys will be customizable to recognize loved one(s) who have battled cancer. Proceeds from the night will benefit the UnityPoint Health Trinity Cancer Center. FRIDAY, MARCH 8 vs. MACON MAYHEMStar Wars Night is back. You won’t want to miss this transformation from Storm to Storm Troopers. Specialty jerseys will be worn in game and Star Wars merchandise will be available at the team store. SATURDAY, MARCH 9 vs. MACON MAYHEMThe Storm is excited to, once again, partner with Blackhawk Electric to honor local heroes with First Responders Night. All first responders receive a free ticket when they show their ID badge at the box office and special recognition will take place throughout the game. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENThe end of March means summer is almost here. And that means we’re getting you ready forthe John Deere Classic with Birdies for Charity Night. John Deere employees can redeem their special two-free ticket offer and the Storm will be raising funds for Birdies for Charity throughout the game. SATURDAY, MARCH 30 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENFor the third consecutive year the Storm pays homage to hockey history in the Quad Cities with HockeyTownQC Night presented by the Quad Cities International Airport. Quad City Hockey Heroes will be in the house and the first 1,000 fans receive a specialty Storm bobblehead.Custom #HockeyTownQC jerseys will be auctioned post-game. FRIDAY, APRIL 5 vs. PEORIA RIVERMENFan Appreciation Night will be presented by Hy-Vee. The first 1,000 fans in the house get a Storm team poster and there will be special giveaways in the stands throughout the game. Enjoy special offers in the team store and gear up as we prepare for the postseason.
	2023 TBK Quad Cities Marathon Thousands of runners from all across the country as they lined the streets in front of Vibrant Arena to take their mark in this year's TBK Quad Cities Marathon.
	Moline Fire Department responds to structure fire Saturday All residents were able to escape.
	Galesbug Police asking for help finding suspect in stabbing Jeremiah Bradfield is wanted for Attempted First-Degree Murder.
	Learn about dozens of universities at Black Hawk College's College Night The 51st annual College Night will feature representatives from Midwest colleges and universities.
	Gilda's Club QC hosting educational workshop on genetic cancers The program will feature Jodie Kavensky, founder and CEO of NormaLeah Ovarian Cancer Initiative.
	Child, pets safe after fire in Moline No injuries were reported by people or animals after a fire in Moline this afternoon. The Moline Fire Department was called to the 700 block of 16th Avenue on September 24 at about 1:12 p.m. The first fire company arrived within seven minutes and reported a small, three story home with smoke coming from the roof. All the home’s occupants had escaped on their own before the fire department arrived. They told firefighters there was a fire in the bedroom on the second floor. The fire company entered the home to search for the blaze, found it and extinguished it. The fire was under control in about 20 minutes, but crews remained on site for an hour, completing overhaul and breaking down equipment. Six residents, including a child, were displaced and are being assisted by the Red Cross. No injuries were reported by residents or firefighters. A dog and several birds were removed from the home and were not injured. Initial Moline Fire response included 17 on-duty personnel in three engine companies, an aerial unit, a command vehicle and two ambulances. An off-duty Chief Officer responded to assist with scene and city coverage. The East Moline, Rock Island and Arsenal Fire Departments. Moline Second Alarmers, MidAmerican Energy and the Red Cross assisted at the scene. The fire is currently under investigation by the Moline Fire Department Bureau of Investigations.
	The Project of the Quad Cities receives gift from the Quad Cities Community Foundation A gift of $50,000 from the Lynn and Dennis Quinn Family Charitable Foundation Fund will allow The Project to expand its healthcare offerings.
	CornCon Cybersecurity Conference returns to Davenport Register here to secure your spot at the ninth annual CornCon Cybersecurity Conference & Kids' Hacker/STEM Camp Oct. 5-7 at the RiverCenter in Davenport. Industry leaders, educators, students, and families will converge to explore the world of cybersecurity and its critical importance in today's interconnected society. This year's CornCon event will shed light on why cybersecurity is crucial to companies and society at large and why awareness and preparedness are everyone's responsibility, from CEOs to parents and teachers, a news release says. The conference kicks off with the CISO Summit, where 40 Chief Information Security Officers and security leaders from across the United States will convene at the EICC Urban Campus in Davenport. On Oct. 6 and 7, the RiverCenter in Davenport will host over 500 cybersecurity professionals. More than 50 world-class experts will share their knowledge on a wide range of cybersecurity topics, with this year's theme "The Rise of A.I." Attendees can explore the latest innovations at the vendor expo, engage in hands-on experiences in the hacker villages, and build lasting connections at after-hours networking events. Scholarships are available upon request to ensure inclusivity and accessibility. CornCon is an annual cybersecurity conference and educational event that brings together industry professionals, educators, students, and families to promote cybersecurity awareness and knowledge. The event features a range of activities, including expert presentations, workshops, and hands-on experiences, to empower individuals with the tools and insights needed to navigate the digital world securely. Docent, a registered 501(c)(3) educational charity, organizes CornCon with the mission of advancing cybersecurity education and fostering a safer digital society. The conference includes a High School Cybersecurity Career Day, hosted by the Docent Institute, with 150 high school students and teachers in attendance. Students will gain insights into various cybersecurity career options, participate in a cybersecurity competition, and interact with a diverse panel of cybersecurity professionals who will share their career journeys.
	Hazardous waste collection set in East Moline Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim has announced six upcoming Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) one-day collection locations - including one in the Quad Cities - for the fall of 2023, a news release says. These collection events are co-sponsored by units of local government and provide residents the free opportunity to safely dispose of unused or leftover hazardous products commonly found in homes. The collection in East Moline is set for Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Rock Island County Fairgrounds, 4200 Archer Drive, East Moline. Rock Island County Waste Management Agency will host the collection. “Illinois EPA’s one-day Household Hazardous Waste collection events provide opportunities for residents to safely get rid of unused and unwanted chemicals and other hazardous products often found in homes,” said Kim. “We continue to see great attendance at collection locations throughout Illinois, showing the ongoing need for these important events. We thank our local partners for helping make each one of them possible.” One-day collections are open to all Illinois residents and operate from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the day of the event. Registration is required. Residents participating are encouraged to bring chemical cleaners, oil-based paints, thinners, antifreeze, motor oil, gasoline, kerosene, weed killers, insecticides, and pesticides, old or outdated medication, and similar hazardous household products. Fluorescent and other high-intensity discharge lamps may also be brought to the collections. Items not accepted include latex paint, explosives, propane tanks, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, agricultural chemicals, and business wastes. For safe transport of HHW, residents are asked to:• Pack HHW items in a disposable box to avoid spilling during transport.• Keep like chemicals together and separate unlike chemicals.• Secure lids and make sure containers are not leaking.• Place box(es) of HHW in the empty trunk or storage compartment of your vehicle, away from passengers during transport.• Remain in vehicle at collection site. On-site personnel will remove the HHW from your vehicle. A complete list of wastes that are and are not accepted is available here. For more information, call 217-524-3300. Illinois EPA HHW collections continue to be contact-less for the safety of participants and workers. Collection events are funded through the Illinois EPA’s Solid Waste Fund.
	Lead(h)er announces new leader from Muscatine Lead(h)er, the mentorship program fueling career and community engagement for Quad Cities area women, has announced its new executive director. Hannah Howard of Muscatine has joined the non-profit in this leadership role, a news release says. Hannah Howard (Lead(h)er) “We are so excited to have Hannah take on this role. Her energy, community engagement experience, and fantastic communication skills make her a great fit. We can’t wait for our match community and all of our community partners to get to know her,” says Anika Martin, board president. Howard brings a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector. She most recently served as the director of business services & community development for the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce & Industry. "I am passionate about this organization because I personally experienced the power of mentorship as a mentee in the Strike A Match mentoring program," Howard said. "I look forward to serving the women of the Quad Cities through my new role and connecting with our wonderful community partners." About Lead(h)er Lead(h)er is a mentorship program dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the Quad Cities area by fostering career growth and community engagement. The organization strives to create opportunities for women to excel personally and professionally through mentorship and networking. To learn more, visit here.
	Celebrate pets all week with Quad Cities Animal Welfare Center events Three animal-related holidays happen this week and the Quad Cities Animal Welfare Center (QCAWC) wants to help pet lovers take part. This is National Dog Week, a week to show furry friends some extra love. Those who want to be pet parents or expand their packs will get half price adoptions on adult dogs all week. Click here to see dogs up for adoption or visit the Adoption center at 724 Second W. Avenue in Milan. #RememberMeThursday is Thursday September 28. This worldwide social media awareness day spotlights the millions of adoptable pets waiting in shelters and remembers those who never got a second chance. QCAWC is joining animal-lovers and animal welfare organizations worldwide on Thursday, September 28 to share pictures of their adopted pets and pictures of pets waiting to find their forever homes using the hashtag #RemeberMeThursday. Click here to see animals available for adoption at QCAWC. September 28 is also World Rabies Day, raising awareness about rabies and its prevention. Rabies vaccines are easy to obtain and not expensive. The rabies vaccine must be given by a licensed veterinarian and pet owners must register with their local county or city, proving that pets have been vaccinated. Rabies and other important vaccines are available at the QCAWC Drive-Up Curbside Clinic every Wednesday and the first Saturday of the month from 8-11 a.m. The clinic is located at 612 First Street West in Milan. You can also celebrate the week by becoming a volunteer or making a donation to QCAWC. Click here for a list of products and services available at the Center or visit their Facebook page.
	Galesburg Police seek suspect after stabbing Galesburg Police need your help to find a suspect in a stabbing last night, according to a news release from the department. The Galesburg Police Department responded to JB Hawks/Lucky's Landing, 1042 N. Henderson Street in Galesburg, on September 23 at about 9:12 p.m. about a disturbance. Officers found a victim with multiple stab wounds. The victim was transported by Galesburg Hospital Ambulance Service to OSF St. Mary's Hospital and then to OSF St. Francis in Peoria by Life Flight. The victim is in stable condition. Galesburg Police have identified the suspect as Jeremiah J. Bradfield, 37. Bradfield is wanted for attempted first-degree murder. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information should call the Galesburg Police Department at (309)343-9151, Galesburg Crime Stoppers at (309) 344-0044 / (888)-266-0044 or text a tip – text the word “Galesburg” + the tip to 274637.
	Where home sales are headed in Davenport Are prices headed up or down? Where are the hotspots for buyers and sellers? Find out with these charts and graphs, updated weekly.

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