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

Wednesday, September 18th, 2024
	Police: Rock Falls man dead, no suspects identified A Rock Falls man is dead and police need the public’s help to find his assailant. Rock Falls Police responded to a report of shots fired in the 1700 block of 14th Avenue in Rock Falls on Tuesday, September 17 at about 10:24 p.m. Officers found a dead man in the 1300 block of West 17th Street. The victim has been identified as Jasen M. Bell, age 42, of Rock Falls. A homicide investigation is underway, and an autopsy was conducted on September 18th. Investigators from the Rock Falls Police Department, Sterling Police Department, Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office and Illinois State Police are following up on leads but have not identified a suspect. Anyone with information about this incident should call the Rock Falls Police Department at (815) 622-1140. Call Whiteside County Crimestoppers at 815-625-STOP to report information anonymously.
	JA of the Heartland unveils new facility, names new Moline site "Michael Duffy JA BizTown" The announcement came Tuesday during an open house of the new JA Inspiration Center, a $3.25 million investment slated to open for students next month.
	Rock Island Arsenal holding Rocktoberfest Friday, Sept. 20th The free event is from 3 to 10 p.m. at the historic Quarters 1 lawn on the arsenal. Attendees must acquire a pass from the welcome center at the Moline gate anytime between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. before the event.
	How will the Fed rate cut affect consumers? The Federal Reserve met this afternoon and cut the benchmark interest rate by a half a percentage point this afternoon, the first rate cut since 2020. David Nelson, CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management, spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to discuss how this cut will affect consumers. “The Fed (Federal Reserve) decided to go half a percent reduction,” he said. “Speculation, I’ve never seen anything like it as far as last 40 years. Everybody’s all uptight, ‘what are they gonna do.’ The good news is that they made the decision, and they went with 50 basis points, so I think there will be a lot of happy people out there. There will be a lot of money made and or lost today as far as the speculators, as far as what was going to take place. When it’s all said and done, (it was an) easier decision, based on some of the data that came out recently. Mortgage rates coming down, housing starts look good, permits look good. Nelson says some people in the finance industry think this is just the beginning of rate cuts. “The futures traders are still in the camp that we’ll see another half a percent drop yet this year, 1% next year and a half a percent in 2026. That’s the big money bets today, as far as what people believe where interest rates are going.” He says the rate cut is mixed news, depending on your financial goals, but people should see a change soon. “I think today after this half point cut, you should see rather quickly as far as interest rates on mortgages come down. That’s the good news. The bad news is for savers that have been putting their money in CDs and money markets and things of that nature. They too will see a reduction here, rather quickly.” “Historically, what takes place as far as when you get a cut of this magnitude is the market will be very jittery for a period of time especially with elections and whatever that are coming up. History says double digit returns generally take place; again, this is looking in the history book, this isn’t predicting. Generally speaking, you’re talking about double digit returns the next 12 months, so probably a good sign people are pretty excited about this. Again, don’t believe for a minute that the volatility is going to go away and we’re going to move one direction.” The rate cut affects not only American consumers but economies around the world, Nelson said. “I think one of the bigger items that people probably aren’t aware of is what’s happening as far as outside the U.S., the impact that this will have. What we’ve seen in Japan has been kind of interesting. The Japanese equivalent of the dollar, they call it the yen, has risen substantially over the last 12 months and over the last three months has been very dramatic, almost a 12% move. As the dollar decreases, other currencies have a tendency to go up. That’s certainly what’s taking place as far as in the review mirror, so it’ll be interesting to watch because people say, ‘what’s that have to do with me?’ The currency of Japan is a big, important item in the financial landscape and so we’ve got to keep a close eye as far as on that. That’ll be a pretty good indicator as far as how people are digesting what took place today.” Japan is the third largest economy in the world, second to China and the U.S. Consumers who have been reading the news about the rate cut may have seen the term “dot plot.” Nelson says that helps predict financial futures. “They (the Fed) don’t want to surprise the markets, so they try to give hints as far as what they’re going to do. The dot plot is basically a kind of a road map of the predictions of what’s going to take place in the future. It’s basically just trying to tip people off as far as to what’s taking place.” He says this is a fairly new tool for financial forecasting. “You go back 30-40 years ago; you didn’t have any of this stuff but then you’d have huge gyrations as far as when there's an announcement. What we're trying to do is to have a more calm type so that again there's not big surprises, either direction.” Nelson has good advice for anyone thinking about a financial investment of some kind. “Markets are moving in anticipation of things, more rapidly than ever because of technology. Just be careful. We’re seeing interest rates trending down. Just be careful as far as what you own, make sure you know what you own, know what your risks really are and seek out good advice.”
	Current Reads: Dive into fall with these 3 picks from the Moline Public Library This week, we're bringing our traveling book club home to Moline! Here are the three most popular fall reads the librarians have chosen.
	Davenport school, law enforcement officials speak on 'non-credible school threats' Both district officials and police said rumors of threats against Davenport schools are not credible.
	MetroLINK to purchase Channel Cat's first electric ferry with $8 million grant The first battery-powered ferry is set to join the Channel Cat fleet after the Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District (MetroLINK) was granted $8 million in federal funding.
	Rock Falls man found dead after police respond to shots fired call Just before 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 17, officers with the Rock Falls Police Department responded to the 1700 block of 14th Avenue for shots being fired.
	Davenport schools and police to address ‘non-credible school threats’ TV6 will at the media briefing and will live-stream the briefing on our website and news app.
	Police: 1 dead after Tuesday night shooting in Rock Falls Rock Falls police found one man dead in the 1700 block of 14th Avenue Tuesday night.
	What's your favorite cheeseburger in the Quad Cities? Wednesday is National Cheeseburger Day and News 8 wants to know what local spot has your favorite burger.
	Davenport Police Department responds to rise in non-credible school threats, locally and nationwide The Davenport Police Department is addressing a rise in social media threats against schools locally and across the country in a news release they released this afternoon. “With the start of the new school year, law enforcement nationwide has seen an increase in threats on social media alleging acts of violence in schools, many being vague and non-specific,” the release reads. “Davenport Police have been made aware of vague social media threats that have impacted out[1]of-state schools that may share generic names with schools within our own community. The Davenport Police Department takes all threats of violence seriously and thoroughly investigates any threat or the possibility of a threat to our community.” The release says that “Davenport Police have investigated several of these vague, non-specific threats and there is no credible threat of violence against any Davenport Community School at this time.” “The Davenport Police Department continues to work in close cooperation with our school partners and will continue to diligently respond to and investigate any threat of potential violence as the safety of our community, students, and school personnel is a top priority.” “We ask our community, parents, and students to remain vigilant, stop sharing screenshots of vague, non-specific threats on social media and via texts, and instead, report suspicious behavior to law enforcement, school officials or a trusted adult.” The release says these incidents can be a teachable moment for families. “Instances like these are an important reminder about the power of social media and how quickly misinformation and rumors can spread. We encourage you to talk to your children about the importance of responsible social media use and the dangers of spreading unverified information that can cause unnecessary fear and concern.” “Threats of violence in our schools will not be tolerated and issuing threats such as these are taken very seriously even if there is no intent on following through. Making threats has consequences not only in the school setting, but also has legal consequences that can result in criminal charges.” “We encourage our community that if you see something, say something - Submit an anonymous tip by downloading the P3 App or by visiting www.qccrimestoppers.com or by calling 9-1-1.”
	Iowa State University researchers discover process to create hundreds of blood stem cells The research published in Nature Communications on Sept. 6th is the first step in possibly finding an unlimited source of stem cells to treat blood disorders like leukemia.
	‘Field of Dreams’ house available for overnight rentals Renting the old family farmhouse for a night costs on average $600-700 a night.
	Lemonade stand raises thousands for Trinity Foundation Breast Screening Fund A group of middle school girls from Bettendorf have raised $4,000 for breast cancer prevention at UnityPoint Health – Trinity with a classic lemonade stand they called the Lovely Lemonade Stand. They gathered at UnityPoint-Trinity in Moline on Wednesday, September 18 to present the check. The girls organized the lemonade stand after a family friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. The money they raised will be donated to Trinity Health Foundation to support the Breast Screening Fund, which makes sure uninsured and underinsured patients receive vital screening and diagnostic testing. Caroline Ruhl, CEO and co-owner of Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors, surprised the girls by agreeing to match the funds they raised, bringing the total to $8,000. An anonymous donor agreed to another match, bringing the total raised for the Breast Screening Fund to $12,000. Trinity Health Foundation works with UnityPoint Health – Trinity team members and community donors to secure charitable gifts and impact the lives of over 100,000 patients every year. Trinity Health Foundation funded more than $1.1 million in 2023 for patient assistance, community outreach, innovative initiatives, equipment & supplies, capital projects and continuing education.
	SAFE-T Act 1 year later: What statewide data is finding The Office of Statewide Pretrial Services in 78 Illinois counties, has collectively issued failure to appear warrants in 5% of nearly 42,000 court dates.
	SAFE-T Act 1 year later: Data in our hometown counties The Office of Statewide Pretrial Services published data on the implementation of the law in Bureau, Carroll, Henry, Jo Daviess, Mercer and Whiteside counties.
	“Immigrant Innovators: The Fruehauf Trailer Company,” October 1 through January 26 A fascinating exploration of both a well-known German-American blacksmith and a revolutionary addition to the transportation industry, Immigrant Innovators: The Fruehauf Trailer Company will be on display at Davenport's German American Heritage Center from October 1 through January 26, the exhibit offering insight into the company’s origins, its development over the decades, and its ultimate downfall after the Fruehauf family’s involvement.
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges seeks community input for chancellor search EICC invites the community to several different forums to express opinions on the key qualities and leadership skills they feel are necessary for the role.
	Leigh Ann Schroeder from Rivermont Collegiate receives the Fulbright Teacher Exchange award In July, the Fulbright Foreign Exchange Scholarship Board announced that a Rivermont Collegiate teacher would receive the Teacher Exchange award.
	Woman charged with arson in connection to rural Davenport fire, deputies say Lisa Lewis, 40, is charged with second-degree arson, a Class C felony.
	Scott County Sheriff's Office investigating fatal crash The crash, Tuesday evening, involved a motorcycle and a car. The motorcyclist was killed.
	Cheeseburger celebrates National Cheeseburger Day Cheeseburgers are a classic American meal. Whether they're plain or loaded, people love eating them. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says Americans eat an average of 2.4 burgers per day (50 billion a year), but they didn’t note how many of those included cheese. To celebrate National Cheeseburger Day, check out our interview with a dog named Cheeseburger (and his human) and find out what this Cheeseburger prefers to eat.
	Muscatine closing part of Mulberry Avenue for sidewalk repair The City of Muscatine is closing the 400 block of Mulberry Avenue to traffic from East Fourth Street to East Fifth Street on Thursday, September 19) to repair the sidewalk in front of the demolition site in the 400 block of Mulberry Avenue. Demolition and cleanup work were completed last week and the block was temporarily opened to traffic on Monday. The block will be reopened to traffic after the sidewalk replacement has been completed. Northbound traffic will be detoured west at East Third Street to Cedar Street, then right on Cedar Street, right onto East Fifth Street, and back to Mulberry Avenue. Southbound traffic will be detoured west on East Fifth Street to Cedar Street, then left onto Cedar Street, left onto East Third Street, and back to Mulberry Avenue.
	Another arrest made in connection to Northpark Mall shooting in July On July 22, police responded to shots fired inside Northpark Mall.
	EICC seeks public input in new chancellor search Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) need your help in the search for a new chancellor. Students, faculty, staff and local residents are encouraged to participate in the search and share their thoughts on the next leader at several upcoming public forums at the Clinton, Muscatine and Scott campuses, as well as online. They can give their opinions on the qualities and leadership skills they think are necessary for the role. The feedback will help create a profile of the ideal candidate that the search committee and Board of Trustees will use during the hiring process. The forums are scheduled for: Clinton Community College Monday, September 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Room 139 Scott Community College Monday, September 30, 2:30 – 4 p.m., Belmont Room 2300, Student Life Center Virtual Session Tuesday, October 1, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., via Zoom Muscatine Community College Tuesday, October 1, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Student Center EICC has launched an online survey to collect more detailed input from the community. The survey will remain open until October 1. EICC is also accepting nominations for people to serve on the Chancellor Search Committee. Community members can nominate people they think would contribute valuable perspectives to the selection process. Nominations are open through September 30; click here for the nomination form. “We want to make sure the next chancellor is someone who truly represents the values and aspirations of our entire EICC community,” said Michelle Garvin, Chair of the Chancellor Search Committee. “The more voices we hear, the better we can identify the right leader for our future.” Click here for more on the search for a new chancellor.
	1 dead, 2 injured in West Liberty crash One person is dead and two are injured following a single-vehicle crash in West Liberty early Wednesday morning.
	Missing Davenport man found Police said 19-year-old Andrew Bunyon has been found and is reunited with family.
	Found: Davenport police asked for public’s help in finding missing 19-year-old Andre Bunyon was found and reunited with family.
	Bettendorf City Council holds public hearing for Genesis rezoning The meeting was held Tuesday night.
	Iowa High School and Junior High School qualifying rodeo to take place Saturday The rodeo is set for 10:30 a.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday at Fort Madison Tri-State Rodeo Arena and the Fort Madison Saddle Club Arena.
	One dead, two injured in West Liberty crash One person was killed Wednesday morning and two more injured after a vehicle rolled over into a field near West Liberty.
	Columbus schools report threat, found to be non-credible A potential threat made against the Columbus Community School District has been found not to be credible, according to a message posted on social media Wednesday morning.
	Koch Fertilizer in Wever hosting emergency response drill The exercise is part of safety training for employees in collaboration with local emergency services.
	Bettendorff closing streets for Homecoming Parade, QC Marathon Things are going to be busy in Bettendorf this week and several roads will be closed to accommodate the activities. The Bettendorf Homecoming Parade takes place on 18th Street on Thursday, September 19. That means 18th Street will be closed from the Bettendorf Middle School entrance to the Bettendorf High School North Parking Lot entrance from about 5:45 – 7 p.m. The parade will start at Bettendorf Middle School, head north on 18th Street, and end at Bettendorf High School. The Quad Cities Marathon crosses four cities, including Bettendorf, on Sunday, September 22. Several roads will be closed from about 7 – 10 a.m., once racers cross the I-74 Bridge from Illinois to Iowa via the bike and pedestrian path. They then head east on State Street until they reach the intersection of 17th Street/George Thuenen Drive. Racers who aren’t running the full marathon turn south and cross the George Thuenen Bridge to access the Mississippi River Trail and head towards Davenport. Full marathon will take this route: North on 17th Street to Mississippi Boulevard West on Mississippi Boulevard to Kimberly Road North on Kimberly Road to Lincoln Road East on Lincoln Road to 14th Street South on 14th Street to Alcoa Avenue, Back North on 14th Street to Lincoln Road East on Lincoln Road to 23rd Street South on 23rd Street to Central Avenue West on Central Avenue to 18th Street South on 18th Street to Mississippi Boulevard South on 17th Street to George Thuenen Bridge Cross bridge to Mississippi River Trail and head towards Davenport. Police and volunteers will be on hand to move cars through the area as safely and quickly as possible.
	Rock Island begins water meter replacement project Water meters will be installed at no cost to property owners.
	Davenport police search for missing man Davenport police are asking for the public's help in locating 19-year-old Andre Bunyon.
	1 dead, 2 injured in Muscatine County crash One person is dead and two are injured following a single-vehicle crash in West Liberty early Wednesday morning.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Sept. 18, 2024 Bettendorf is rezoning land near TBK Sports Complex for new hospital and COVID vaccines are available through Hy-Vee pharmacies.
	INTERVIEW: 50th Annual Charity Bass Tournament Get ready to cast your fishing lines this weekend for the 50th Annual Charity Bass Tournament. It's put on by Live Uncommon. Michelle Russell and participant Paul Engstrom joined Our Quad Cities News This Morning to tell us all about it. Watch the video above and click here for more information.
	1 dead, 2 injured after overnight crash in Muscatine Co. Officials say the car left the roadway, rolled several times, and came to a stop in a bean field.
	Fugitive arrested in Monroe County after nearly two weeks on the run Victor Farris was wanted in connection to a kidnapping in Peoria after authorities said he stole a vehicle with a 3-year-old child inside.
	Muscatine County Supervisors voice opposition to eminent domain for CO2 pipeline The Muscatine County Board of Supervisors discussed the use of eminent domain for carbon pipeline in Iowa Monday morning.
	Jewish Film Series begins at Figge Art Museum, Davenport The Gordon Ney Jewish Film Series will feature outstanding films at the Figge Art Museum, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport. The movies have earned awards and have adult content. "The Glory of Life," 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22. Because of the power of love, the last year of Franz Kafka's life becomes his happiest. He has never before been able to allow himself to experience intimacy, he suffers from tuberculosis and is dependent on his overbearing family. But the worldly wise Dora Diamant accepts him as he is, and he accepts her. The two meet in 1923 on the Baltic Sea coast, where he is convalescing and she is working in a Jewish Volksheim. Together they go to Berlin and, when his health deteriorates rapidly, to a sanatorium in Austria. Barely a year after they meet, he dies. The memory of their time together will shape Dora for the rest of her life. 98 minutes. German with English subtitles. Drama, 2024. Watch the trailer here. "All About the Levkoviches," 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29. Tamas ia a gruff but tender aging boxing coach in present-day Budapest whose relationship with his won, Ivan, has frayed to the point of estrangement. After converting to Orthodox Judaism, Ivan moved to Israel, where he had a son., Ariel, whom Tamas has never met. Now, Ivan and Ariel have come back to Budapest for the funeral of Tamas's wife, forcing father and son to face one another. The film is masterfully acted and directed, maintaining a perfectly balanced tone between comedy and pathos. 85 minutes. Hungarian and Hebrew with English subtitles. Drama/humor, 2024. Watch the trailer here. 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, "Remembering October 7" double feature with "Voiceless Witness" and"6:30." In "Voiceless Witness," Nikolay's home is falling apart before his eyes during his home's renovation. The October events left destruction everywhere and the fighting in Gaza fills him with memories of his military past. To maintain his sanity, he adopts a rescue dog from Gaza. Together, they confront the harsh, incomprehensible reality. 31 minutes. Hebrew with English subtitles. Documentary, 2024. "6:30" is a documentary capturing the harrowing events of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel with profound sensitivity. It features firsthand accounts from survivors at seven different attack sites, each story vividly brought to life through the creative use of miniature models and animation. The strength of the film lies in its nuanced depiction of that terrible. Its approach conveys the horror without explicitly showing it, offering a restrained yet deeply impactful portrayal. Watch the trailer here. 65 minutes. Hebrew with English subtitles, documentary, 2024. About the Gordon Ney Jewish Film Series The annual Gordon Ney Jewish Film Series, presented by the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cites, is named after longtime Federation member, Gordon Ney, of blessed memory. For more information, contact ross@jfqc.org or call 309-793-1300. Tickets will be available at the door: Adults $7; seniors (60+) and military, $6; students, free.
	Davenport police asking for public’s help in finding missing 19-year-old Andre Bunyon was last seen in the 1200 block of East Rusholme Street Tuesday.
	More than $500,000 in grants awarded to Quad-Cities nonprofits Grants ranging from $5,000 to $40,000 were awarded to 29 local organizations by the Quad Cities Community Foundation.
	Eviction 'messes you up forever.' Davenport mom, kids, live in motel A shortage of affordable housing has thousands of people in the Quad Cities struggling to find safe places to live. More than a thousand people in Scott County could be at risk of being evicted. Iowa Legal Aid says there were about 1,700 households in Scott County behind on rent as of May 27. They owe a total of $1.7 million. That's roughly $1,000 for each household. About 2,600 children live in those households. "Getting an eviction put on you - it messes you up forever," said Aletta Johnson, who at the time Our Quad Cities News spoke to her was living in two motel rooms with her four children. "One eviction is left on your background for seven to 10 years." Aletta Johnson (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Johnson, who since has found housing in a mobile-home park, lived day by day, and sometimes hour by hour. "If you don't have the funds to be able to move somewhere, and pay rent, security deposit, light and gas … if you don't have that you're just out on the streets. Homeless. How I am now," she told Our Quad Cities News. Her stepson, who had been staying with the family, got into some trouble with the law, and police arrived at her apartment. Such an incident means an automatic eviction for the renter in a lot of places. An eviction alert pops up when a landlord runs a background check. Johnson never had faced an eviction before. Suddenly, she had only days to find shelter for herself and her children, three of whom are under the age of 10. "I have medical issues. I had a fasciotomy on my left arm," she said. She has May-Thurner Syndrome, a condition that affects blood flow. She lost the use of two fingers on her left hand. It hurts when she plays with her kids or tries to lift a gallon of milk. Johnson says she can't work. "I can't work a 9 to 5 job. I'm on disability. That (check) comes once a month," she said. Her medical issues got so bad she ended up on life support at one point. Her situation snowballed from there. "Having to deal with that situation and going through everything I'm going through now … it's like everything just hit all at one time," Johnson said. "It's sad because they don't have anybody to support people that go through that." With the help of community organizations and a donation from a sympathetic stranger, Johnson was able to rent the two motel rooms for a time. She says many of the rental options she had may not be safe for her children. "Usually the places that don't worry about your background isn't a place you'd want to have a family.," she said. "Most of the motels around here have families in the same situation I'm in." Through tears and determination, she faces a future of uncertainty: "Not everybody can go out and just pick up from nothing and build back up, just like that."
	A year in, Rock Island County defendants see varied impact from Pretrial Fairness Act The law, which took effect last year, abolished monetary bond in Illinois. If released under the act, defendants have conditions they must meet.
	"Next Up" fundraiser to benefit Rock Island Academy library project The nonprofit aims to raise $1,500 to fully fund RIA's library project, titled "Building Literacy Opportunities for English Language Learners."
	Higher workload, fewer inmates: A year of the Pretrial Fairness Act in Rock Island County The act abolished the monetary bail system last year, replacing it with hearings in which the detention of a defendant must be justified.
	Orion trustees hear about proposed new recycling rates The village of Orion had its recycling contract extended for a year at a rate of $4.48 per month for residents. The contract will expire December 1, 2024.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, Sept. 18, 2024 Charles O. Allen, 90, of Coal Valley, Illinois, died Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at home. Funeral arrangements are pending at Trimble Funeral Home, Coal Valley.
	Public comment is back at Davenport's Committee of the Whole meetings Public comment rules were changed by Mayor Mike Matson in February in reaction to heated public comment sessions.
	Experts explain why you should ‘leave the leaves’ this fall BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details. For a lush yard, leave the leaves behind Fall is fast approaching, and with it, the time when many families head into the yard armed with rakes, leaf blowers and garbage bags. But agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Wildlife Federation have asked us to “leave the leaves” — that is, skip bagging up fallen leaves and leave them on the ground instead. Why? There are a lot of reasons that benefit plants, animals and the natural landscape. In this article: EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower, Manpower Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set and Heavy-Duty Garden Rake Why leave the leaves? First, the most obvious reason: Raking leaves into plastic garbage bags and sending them to a landfill creates huge amounts of unnecessary waste. It also contributes to releasing greenhouse gases that warm the climate and harm the environment. But that’s not the only reason you should skip raking your lawn. Another reason is that the leaf cover on the ground provides a natural home for small animals that need warm cover to survive the winter. “Removing leaves also eliminates vital wildlife habitat,” said National Wildlife Federation naturalist David Mizejewski. “Critters ranging from turtles and toads to songbirds, mammals and invertebrates rely on leaf litter for food, shelter and nesting material. Many moth and butterfly caterpillars overwinter in fallen leaves before emerging in spring.” What about the lawn? The idea that leaving leaves on your lawn will harm the grass is a misconception, according to experts. In fact, the opposite is true. Leaving fall leaves can help your lawn thrive. When you let leaves decompose as nature intended, they break down into natural mulch, which is great for the environment. It provides nutrients for the soil that will feed your lawn next spring, as well as your garden and any trees or other plants you have growing in your yard. “Leaves form a natural mulch that helps suppress weeds and fertilizes the soil as it breaks down,” Mizejewski explained. “Why spend money on mulch and fertilizer when you can make your own?” How to manage leaves without removing them completely Adobe Stock That’s not to say fall is now lawn-maintenance-free. There are still some things you can (and should) do to help set your yard up for success next spring. First, the leaves will make more effective mulch if they’re chopped up into smaller pieces. For this, experts recommend running a lawn mower over them without the bag attachment. Some lawn mowers even have a mulching attachment added for this purpose. Lawn mowers and mulching blades EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower This battery-powered lawn mower is adjustable to accommodate different heights, has LED lights for mowing when it’s not light outside and the ability to mulch leaves, which can be healthy for your lawn. SHOP NOW Manpower Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set It is also an option to purchase blades specifically made for mulching leaves, like this two-blade set. Be sure to purchase the blades made for your model of lawn mower. SHOP NOW You can also rake the leaves into your garden or flower beds (or anywhere else that could use extra mulch). It’s a good idea to spread the leaves around to avoid deep spots that might smother parts of your lawn. Rakes Heavy-Duty Garden Rake The head of this garden rake is made of high carbon steel and features an anti-rust coating, so it should last you many seasons. It also has nonslip grips to make the process a little easier. SHOP NOW 65-Inch Garden Leaf Rake This model has an adjustable handle, making it more comfortable for people of varying heights. It also folds up for easy storage, making it an excellent choice if you have limited space for garden tools. SHOP NOW Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.
	Davenport police seek public's help to find missing man Davenport Police seek assistance from the public to find a a missing 19-year-oold man, according to an early-morning Wednesday news release. Andre Bunyon (Davenport Police) Andre Bunyon, described as 5'9" and weighing 180 pounds, has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen in the 1200 block of East Rusholme Street between 2 and 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 17. He was wearing a black shirt and red sweatpants. Police ask that anyone with information about Andre Bunyon's whereabouts call 9-1-1.
	'Severe' geomagnetic storm reported: Will it spark auroras, impact electrical grids? (NEXSTAR) — It was an active weekend for the sun, which hurled multiple solar flares into space that impacted Earth, bringing the northern lights to part of the U.S. and sparking an alert from federal forecasters. A pair of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) were detected Friday and Saturday, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). CMEs are explosions of plasma and magnetic material from the sun that can collide with Earth's atmosphere, causing the northern lights along with other less-enjoyable phenomena. Parts of the U.S. were able to catch some of those northern lights Sunday night, and again on Monday. Northern lights: What causes the colors that we see — and don’t see? Conditions sparked by the CMEs became so strong Monday night that the SWPC issued a "severe geomagnetic storm alert" around 11 p.m. ET. According to the SWPC, the "major disturbance in Earth's magnetic field" was expected to reach G4 strength. The SWPC uses a five-point scale to categorize a geomagnetic storm's strength. At the lowest end is G1, described as minor storms that can lead to aurora being visible in Maine and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. A G5 storm, described as extreme, could send the northern lights as far south as Florida and southern Texas. G4 storms, considered severe, have been known to bring the northern lights into Alabama and northern California. Such storms can also spark "widespread voltage control problems," throw off navigation systems, and impact high-frequency radio signals. The SWPC warned of such conditions Monday, saying it had notified infrastructure operators "to mitigate any possible impacts" and that there may be impacts to satellite operations and GPS systems. Thankfully, U.S. power grid operators are kept well-informed about the potential impacts of space weather, SWPC Service Coordinator Shawn Dahl told Nexstar via email Tuesday. He noted that the electrical grid weathered Monday's brief storm well. 5 things to know about the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs indictment The geomagnetic storm conditions are also slowly improving, reducing the likelihood of potential impacts on the power grid. That does, unfortunately, mean your chances of seeing the northern lights on Tuesday are growing slim. According to Dahl, aurora chances do continue for Tuesday night, but coverage is diminishing with improving storm conditions. The northern lights may only be visible in the far northern states, he added. The latest aurora forecast from the SWPC, seen below, shows even Alaska and Canada — which frequently have strong chances of seeing the northern lights — have only a low likelihood of a celestial show Tuesday night. The aurora forecast for Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024. (NOAA SWPC) The forecast for aurora viewers doesn't improve in the coming days either. According to Dahl, "less than G1 conditions" are predicted for Wednesday and Thursday. We will, most likely, get another chance to see the northern lights again before the year ends. The sun is progressing through an active pattern known as Solar Cycle 25 in which it flips its poles. As we near the peak of that 11-year cycle, researchers say we can expect to see more strong solar storms — and, hopefully, more strong bouts of the northern lights.
Tuesday, September 17th, 2024
	Long Grove Volunteer Fire Department buys new CPR machine The Long Grove Fire Department now has a Lucas Chest Compression System.
	Junior Achievement hosts open house for new inspiration center The event was from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
	Mail truck strikes Silvis apartment building The truck's driver sustained minor injuries, according to Silvis police.
	Davenport restores public comment to Committee of the Whole meetings Public comments rules were changed by Mayor Mike Matson in February in reaction to heated public comment sessions.
	Rock Island replacing water meters around the city The process will take about five years to fully complete.
	Officials release details into fatal crash investigation outside of Eldridge The Scott County Sheriff’s Office has released information into an investigation regarding a fatal crash that happened outside of Eldridge.
	Bettendorf leaders approve new hospital plans The new hospital from Genesis Health Systems would be located near the TBK Bank Sports Complex.
	Quad City Animal Welfare Center holding 'Clear the Shelter' event The center is waiving all adoption fees through Saturday.
	Junior Achievement of the Heartland opens new Inspiration Center The space is designed to teach kids about money, business and career skills.
	QC veterans fly to Washington D.C. for Hy-Vee Honor Flight 80 local veterans were able to make the cross-country journey.
	Motorcyclist killed in Scott County crash The victim's name hasn't been released.
	Motorcyclist killed in Scott County crash The victim's name hasn't been released.
	One dead after car/motorcycle crash near Donahue One person is dead after a collision between a car and motorcycle near Donahue. According to a release from the Scott County Sheriff's Office, about 5:13 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17, the Scott Emergency Communication Center received a call about a crash near the 24100 block of 115th Avenue, south of Donahue. The Scott County Sheriff’s Office Accident Investigation Team responded to the scene and found that a Ford Fusion veered across the center line into the northbound lane, colliding with a motorcycle. The 75-year-old driver of the Fusion was checked by medical personnel on scene and transported to a hospital, where she remains in stable condition. The 60-year-old driver of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene. Neither driver had been identified as of 10 p.m. Tuesday. The accident remains under investigation by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office Accident Investigation Team. The Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Scott Emergency Communications Center, Scott County Medic EMS, Scott County GIS, Donahue Fire Department, Maysville Fire Department and MedForce assisted at the scene.
	Dave & Buster's eyeing potential Quad Cities location The sports bar chain, known for its large arcades, is applying for a liquor license in Davenport.
	Bettendorf Community School District to dedicate new alternative high school The Bettendorf Community School District will dedicate a new alternative high school program in the QCA. Our Quad Cities News photojournalist Mike Colón takes us for a look at Edison Academy as the school aims to provide an environment for students who don't do well in a traditional classroom. For more information, click here.
	Galesburg student earns National Merit Scholarship recognition Galesburg High School principal Jeff Ewig has announced that William Edwards has been named a Commended Student in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program, a news release says. William Edwards (Galesburg High School) A letter of commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which conducts the program, will be presented by the principal to this scholastically talented senior. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2025 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2025 competition by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT.)
	Illinois to ban fluorescent lighting in 2026 (WTVO) — Soon Illinoisans will no longer be able to buy fluorescent light as a result of the Clean Lighting Act. The main goal of the act is to stop pollution that comes from fluorescent lights. Fluorescent lighting is known to be incorrectly disposed of which leads to mercury and other toxins being released into the air. The act changes the wording of the Illinois Environmental Protection Act. The law will take partial effect in 2026 by banning screw-based or bayonet-based compact fluorescent lamps from being produced or sold. By 2027, the law will take full effect and will also ban pin-base compact fluorescent lights and fluorescent tubes. The main exceptions to the law are for using fluorescent lighting in medical uses, academic research and headlights on vehicles manufactured before 2020. lawmakers who pushed for a ban said 3 in 4 fluorescent bulbs are disposed of incorrectly, resulting in broken glass and the release of toxins into the air. Opponents said the law will cost businesses in the long run. Illinois is the 10th state to ban fluorescent lighting.
	September hot streak continues in Quad Cities After starting the month with almost all cooler than normal days, things have really turned around temperature-wise in the Quad Cities lately. For the 3rd out of the last 4 days, we hit 90° for the high on Tuesday. The only day we didn't make it up to 90° was Monday, when it was 89°! We're looking at more close to 90° heat for the next couple days. There is a chance for some rain for a change Thursday night. We are yet to see measurable rain at the airport this month!
	Landlords, housing agencies invited to Rent It Forward forum in Moline The Quad Cities Housing Council, in collaboration with several local housing agencies, invites local housing management professionals and landlords to join the Rent It Forward event on Thursday, Sept. 26, from 11:30 am. to 1:30 p.m. at The Salvation Army, 2200 5th Ave., Moline, according to a news release. Quad Cities Housing Council (qchousingcouncil.org) This gathering is designed to bring together housing professionals and local agencies to strengthen partnerships, discuss current housing challenges, and explore future opportunities for affordable housing solutions. The event will include a panel discussion featuring local experts, a Q&A session, and a meal catered by Biaggi’s. It's an opportunity for professionals to share insights and collaborate on strategies that will sustain and expand affordable housing in our community. RSVP by Sept. 20 to contact@humilityhomes.org. Participating organizations include Quad Cities Housing Council, Family Resources, Project NOW, Inc., U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Iowa Legal Aid, and Humility Homes and Services, demonstrating a community-based approach. The urgency for this conversation comes in the wake of alarming statistics showing a severe housing shortage in the Quad Cities and beyond, the release says. According to the Iowa Finance Authority, the average vacancy rate for rental units in Iowa priced at $600 or less has plummeted to just 2%, the lowest rate since 1985. Even as we move past the immediate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the housing crisis remains a pressing challenge. The population continues to grow, but the housing stock simply isn’t keeping pace. "This event is a follow-up to a conversation we had two years ago with local landlords and housing management professionals," said Leslie Kilgannon, executive director of the Quad Cities Housing Council, a participating sponsor. "We heard your concerns, took action, and now we’re ready to discuss what more can be done to address the ongoing housing crisis. It’s time to lay the groundwork for real change, and we need everyone at the table to make it happen." About the Quad Cities Housing Council Founded in 1999 and formerly known as the Scott County Housing Council, the renamed Quad Cities Housing Council (QCHC) is dedicated to providing resources for creating housing opportunities that promote economic and community development. As the local Housing Trust Fund, QCHC also serves bi-state entities and acts as the resource development arm of the Quad Cities Housing Cluster, a consortium of bi-state not-for-profit and for-profit housing service providers and developers, lenders, funders, local governments and members of the housing industry. Cluster members work collaboratively to address the overall housing needs and opportunities of the Quad Cities’ communities. To learn more, visit here.
	MetroLINK secures $8 million grant to bring electric ferry to Channel Cat fleet MetroLINK is steering toward a greener future, all thanks to an $8 million grant from the Federal Transit Administration. This funding will be used to bring the first battery-electric ferry to the Channel Cat fleet.
	Appeal denied in 1980 Muscatine murder A judge denied a petition for post-conviction relief for William Beeman, convicted in the 1980 death of Michiel Winkel, whose nude body was found at Wildcat Den State Park in Muscatine.
	Quad Cities-area veterans visit national monuments made in their honor Three women were on Tuesday's HyVee Honor Flight of the Quad Cities and were honored at the Military Women's Memorial.
	Doug Maxeiner selected as Davenport city administrator, council to vote later this month Former Moline and East Moline city administrator Doug Maxeiner was announced Tuesday as Davenport's pick to be the next city administrator.
	Get into the spooky season spirit at Circa '21, plus the 48th season just announced The creepy and kooky Addams Family is taking over the dinner theatre stage for the first time through Nov. 2.
	Rock Island Public Works temporarily switches to free chlorine water treatment: 'People shouldn't be afraid of it.' The city's water division is starting its routine fire hydrant flush, using a stronger chemical.
	Officials: 1 person dead, 1 person injured in crash outside Eldridge Crews responded to a fatal crash just outside of Eldridge.
	Rock Island begins flushing fire hydrants City officials said the chemicals used in the process are still safe to drink.
	Quad Cities-area veterans receive warm welcome in DC on Tuesday's Honor Flight Four buses of school kids had signs, flags and lots of cards for 80 veterans on today's Hy-Vee Honor Flight of the Quad Cities.
	'Give Like Charly' \| The second annual golf outing in honor of Bettendorf teen Bettendorf High School graduate Charly Erpelding passed away in October 2022 after battling cancer.
	Election 2024: Iowans to decide on constitutional amendment on voting age There will be two constitutional amendments on Iowans’ ballots this fall. One of them seeks to guarantee the right for young people to vote.
	River Action's Taming of the Slough Mississippi River Adventure Triathlon, September 28 Outdoor adventurers are again invited to paddle, mountain bike, and run their way to the top in the eagerly anticipated, 19th Taming of the Slough Mississippi River Adventure Triathlon, the River Action-sponsored test of endurance set to take place on Saturday, September 28.
	“AI Apocalypse: A Survival Guide for Navigating AI Disinformation,” October 3 An important issue affecting our present and future will be explored in fascinating detail when Black Hawk College reference and instruction librarian Atticus Garrison presents AI Apocalypse: A Survival Guide for Navigating AI Disinformation, an October 3 program at the Rock Island Public Library's Watts-Midtown Branch designed to equip attendees with the critical thinking and media literacy skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape with confidence.
	Nate Jackson, October 1 One of the most impressive and adored rising stars in the arena of touring comedy, Nate Jackson brings his "Super Funny World Tour" to the University of Dubuque's Heritage Center on October 1, his evening of hysterical standup part of the university's 12th-annual Live at Heritage Center Performing Arts Series.
	“M,” October 2 Currently holding a perfect 100-percent critical-approval rating on the Rotten Tomatoes aggregate, Fritz Lang's classic 1931 thriller M serves as the fifth and final presentation in the German American Heritage Center's German Expressionist Film Series for 2024, its October 2 screening at Davenport venue The Last Picture House demonstrating why Rotten Tomatoes' critical consensus calls the work "a landmark psychological thriller with arresting images, deep thoughts on modern society, and Peter Lorre in his finest performance."
	“Of Mice & Men,” October 3 through 13 The funny, moving, and profound stage version of one of literature's all-time classics enjoys an October 3 through 13 run at the Richmond Hill Barn Theatre when the Geneseo venue stages Of Mice & Men, John Steinbeck's adaptation of his revered 1937 novel included as one of Amazon's list of “The 100 Greatest Books Ever Written.”
	Davenport announces new city administrator Doug Maxeiner will serve in the new role starting Oct. 28, pending city council approval. He previously served as city administrator for Moline and East Moline.
	Historic Clinton building to be repurposed as apartments The old Lafayette building in downtown Clinton has a long history. The City of Clinton plans to reopen the currently vacant building as an apartment complex, using its historical significance to help fund the project. Both federal and state historical tax credits could be used to help cut costs, but a few conditions must be met first. "Does the building look like it did?" asked Marion Meginnis, owner of Davenport Historic Preservation Consulting LLC. "Does it retain historic elements? What is its significance in the context of downtown Clinton? Not every building that's old can be listed in the National Register. There has to be something about it that is a significance." The Clinton mayor believes this building could meet those requirements. "That hotel has massive historic value to Clinton. It was one of the swankiest hotels back in the day and if you go in there they still have the vaulted ceilings and the ballroom and all that stuff," said Clinton Mayor Scott Maddasion. "So hopefully as they work towards the historic tax credits and the work for housing credits and all those types of things we can get that project going sooner than later. That will be a huge game changer for downtown as well, because obviously to grow a downtown and develop it, you have to have people down there." Meginnis thinks the building's storied past could help bring people in. "Young people love living in these buildings," said Meginnis. "They don't want to live in some cookie-cutter thing. They like things that are authentic. You can't drive 30 miles away to another town and find the same thing. It is real and it grounds people, and it gives people a sense of place and a sense of belonging and you become part of something." Plans call for the building to have 50 apartments.
	Search warrant executed in connection to human remains found near decommissioned Cherry Mine, deputies say Deputies executed a search warrant in connection to human remains that were found in June near a decommissioned Cherry Mine.
	Highly Suspect, September 29 Touring in support of their July release As Above, So Below that inspired Record Weekly to call it "another demonstration that this fiery lot can dial it up to 11 then pare the punchy rock back, too," the alternative-rock and grunge masters of Highly Suspect headline a September 29 concert at Davenport's Capitol Theatre, their latest also leading The Soundboard to rave, "The melodies, the lyrics, the emotion ... . It's all incredible and fresh and new."
	The Bunny the Bear, September 29 With their most recent recording Afterglow lauded by SputnikMusic as "the strongest album in their career," the experimental-rock and synth-pop musicians of The Bunny the Bear headline a September 29 concert event at Davenport's Redstone Room, Ghost Killer Entertainment adding that Afterglow is "versatile enough to accommodate even the most casual of listeners while still retaining songwriting and orchestration prowess that would appeal to a hardcore music nerd."
	Polaris, September 28 Touring in support of last year's album Fatalism, a recording that reached the number-on spot on Australia's ARIA charts, that continent's metalcore band Polaris headlines a September 28 concert at Davenport's Capitol Theatre, the ensemble famed for blending elements of metalcore with progressive/post-rock soundscapes, electronics, and melodic hooks intertwined with personal lyrics, many of them dealing with anxiety, depression and loss.
	Davenport announces new city administrator Doug Maxeiner will serve in the new role starting Oct. 28, pending city council approval. He previously served as city administrator for Moline and East Moline.
	Flogging Molly, September 27 Lauded for albums including 2006's Whiskey on a Sunday, 2011's Speed of Darkness, and their 2022 critical smash Anthem, the contemporary Celtic rockers of Flogging Molly bring their national tour to Davenport's Capitol Theatre on September 27, AllMusic raving that "the group's hard-hitting sound still makes room for the nuances of their folk influences, and the songs make room for tales of brawling and wild times and more sentimental stories of love, loyalty, and times past."
	Nivrana: A Tribute to Nirvana, September 27 In celebration of one of the best-selling and most popular bands of all time, the alt-rock musicians of Nivrana: A Tribute to Nirvana will brings their grunge talents to Common Chord's Redstone Room on September 27, with the Davenport venue hosting a repertoire of hits from the platinum- and diamond-selling albums Bleach, In Utero, and the timeless Nevermind.

Wednesday, September 18th, 2024

Tuesday, September 17th, 2024