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

Thursday, March 23rd, 2023
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges offer free classes through April EICC is encouraging people to register before all available spots fill up.
	Good Morning for Thursday March 23, 2023 - the Iowa House limits the use of eminent domain,- film and tv revenue set a record in Illinois last year,- and the last former Illinois prison guard is sentenced to prison.
Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023
	Fire departments prepare for rise in agricultural incidents during spring The United States saw 23 ag workers lose their lives in confined spaces in 2021.
	$2.1M program to revive vacant homes in Davenport approved The 'Extreme DREAM' program is focused on improving homes near Gaines Street, between Locust and 5th Streets.
	$2.1M program to revive vacant homes in Davenport approved The 'Extreme DREAM' program is focused on improving homes near Gaines Street, between Locust and 5th Streets.
	An inside look at Black Hawk College’s Multicultural Entrepreneurial Center Loredana Cooper, Black Hawk College’s multicultural entrepreneurial advisor, said the center's programs are free and available to the public
	YWCA Quad Cities encourages runners to break a sweat battling racism for 5th year Submissions for the Race Against Racism's individual honors nominees are open until April 1.
	Rock Island County Board honors Moline boys basketball Rock Island County Board honors Moline boys basketball
	Man found deceased in parking lot of Silvis pizza place Police responded to the restaurant just before 5 p.m. on Wednesday and found a man dead next to a car.
	Flower and Garden Show returns to Expo Center The 2023 QCCA Flower and Garden Show will be adding several new exhibits this year as well hosting the Preview Gala on Thursday night as the kick-off event to the show. The 2022 QCCA Flower and Garden Show will kick off with a Preview Gala Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. at QCCA Expo Center. The Flower and Garden Show Preview Gala will be held on Thursday, from 4 to 8 pm. Tickets are $25 at the door. Advance tickets are available here. The Flower and Garden Show opens to the public on Friday, and runs through Sunday. Hours are Friday: noon-8 p.m; Saturday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults, $1 for children 6-15 and free for children 5 and younger. Friday is Senior Day and Military Appreciation Day. Anyone 65+ and/or military veteran or active duty can attend for $6. Adult discounted advance tickets are available here. Most of the flowers and plants at the show will be available for purchase on Monday, beginning at 2 p.m. in the North Hall of the Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island. Friday 2 p.m. Emily Swihart, U of IL Extension Horticulture Educator, "How to Plant and Care for Trees" 4 p.m. Dick Potter, U of IL Extension Master Gardener, "Riverside Rain Garden" 6 p.m. Jimmy Wiebler, Nahant naturalist and researcher, "Frogs." Saturday Noon: Oliver Lincoln, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, "Bats" 2 p.m. Paul Crosser, U of IL Extension Master Gardener, "Native Plant Seed Collection, Processing and Germination Techniques" 4 p.m: Jody Zimmerman, West High School, "Light Pollution" 6 p.m. Paige Burke, Monarch Rescue Team, "All About Monarchs." Sunday Noon: Jim Knorr, U of IL Extension Master Gardener, "Energy Savings for the Homeowner" 2 p.m. Dave Arensdorf, U of IL Extension Master Gardener and Master Naturalist, "The Future for Modern Sustainable Gardening." The Quad City Conservation Alliance was founded in 1984 as a not-for-profit conservation alliance by five local conservation clubs. The QCCA owns and operates the QCCA Expo Center. Monies raised through the Expo Center are directed to conservation activities in a 90-mile radius of the Quad Cities.
	Eastern Iowa Community Colleges celebrate National Community College Month, free classes in April Easter Iowa Community Colleges celebrate National Community College Month, free classes in April.
	Free rental-insurance workshop set in Moline KWAABA QC in partnership with Togolese Diaspora and QCAIR (Quad Cities Alliance for Immigrants & Refugees) invites the public to is first free rental insurance workshop from noon until 2 p.m. Saturday at Moline Public Library, 3210 41st St., Moline. This workshop is open to the community in general and especially to immigrants and refugees in the Quad Cities area. The goal is to educate the community about the importance of having rental insurance in case of an unexpected situation, such as a fire. To register, visit here. Free food will be provided to all participants.
	Covenant sets open house at Davenport clinic Covenant Family Solutions (CFS) will celebrate the opening of its Davenport clinic with a grand opening and ribbon cutting at 2 p.m. Friday at the new clinic, 5403 Victoria Ave. The public is welcome, a news release says. The clinic opened to the public on March 1 with a team of three. It is expected to grow its team to include 10 licensed mental health therapy providers and a nurse practitioner specializing in mental health by the end of 2023. CFS also operates clinics in Coralville, Cedar Rapids, Marion, Cedar Falls, and Dubuque. “We would like to thank everyone in the Quad Cities for their warm welcome to the community. We are excited to do our part in unleashing the potential of each individual, couple, and family we serve though timely access to quality mental healthcare," said Covenant Family Solutions CEO Dr. Jacob Christenson. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 888-336-9661or visit here. The event will feature remarks from Davenport Mayor Mike Matson and the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce and Christenson. Tours of the new clinic will be held after the official ribbon cutting.
	Moline Coal Valley School District to retire Willard Elementary School The district plans to move Willard students to Lincoln-Irving Elementary School by 2027.
	UT's Ryan Webber has resigned from head coach position Webber had eight successful seasons with the Panthers.
	Tow truck/semi crash results in no major injuries, Bettendorf Police say A crash between a tow truck and a semi resulted in no major injuries, according to a news release from Bettendorf Police. At 12:18 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to a property-damage crash involving a semi and a tow truck at the intersection of State Street and the I-74 west off-ramp. Both trucks were severely damaged, and both were occupied only by the drivers, the release says. There were no major injuries, and the drivers were not transported to the hospital. A preliminary investigation revealed the tow truck was exiting I-74 and went through the red light at the bottom of the ramp after experiencing an equipment failure, the release says. The semi was traveling east on State Street through a green light. Bettendorf Police were assisted by the Bettendorf Fire Department and Medic Ambulance. This investigation is ongoing and no other information was available Wednesday.
	Police recover body in Silvis Emergency responders transported a body from a scene in Silvis on Wednesday evening. Silvis Police and Fire crews were in the area of the 700 block of 1st Avenue shortly after 6 p.m. Wednesday near what appeared to be a body covered with a sheet. Our Local 4 News crew saw crime-scene tape near the parking lot of a closed business next to Frank's Pizza, 711 1st Ave. We will stay in contact with law enforcement to provide details when they become available.
	Few storms possible Wednesday night Good evening QCA. Strong Storms: A cold front will slide through during the overnight hours and a few storms will fire due to this. These storms could be on the strong to severe side with large hail and heavy rain being the primary concern. The timing of the storms will be mainly after midnight through 6 am. Tomorrow morning a few showers and storms could be lingering around but should be out of here by 9 am. Highs will be slightly cooler than today as temps will climb into the mid 40's under a cloudy sky.
	No major injuries reported following crash at the intersection of State Street, I-74 west off-ramp Investigators found that a tow truck ran light after experiencing an equipment failure and struck a semi in the intersection.
	March 30 deadline approaches for TEGNA grant applications The TEGNA Foundation, sponsored by TEGNA Inc., uses its Community Grant Program to empower the people we serve by supporting the future of our community.
	Willard Elementary will close for good in just 4 years Officials credit the 124-year-old building for being an establishment in the community. One woman says it may not be the best thing, though.
	Remarkable Women of the Quad Cities: Erin Granet A Quad-City woman has dedicated herself to making sure dogs and cats get services and vet care for a variety of different issues, one resale shop purchase at a time. Meet Erin Granet, owner of Rescued in Moline, as she coordinates donations, volunteers and a non-profit boutique, all to help our furry friends. Local 4's Stephanie Johnson has this week's story from Remarkable Women of the Quad Cities.
	Ultra realistic exhibit on display at the Muscatine Art Center through April 9 The exhibit features nine sculptures.
	Crews respond to tow truck vs. semi crash, State Street in Bettendorf Crews respond to tow trucks vs. semi crash on State Street in Bettendorf.
	State basketball champion Maroons honored at RICO board meeting The county proclaimed March 21 as "Moline Maroons Day" in honor of the team's historic season and state championship.
	Car crashes into Davenport H&R Block building Tuesday night The building manager told News 8 that the driver ran a red light, hit a car and then went through the business' front window.
	Here's where you can find egg hunts and bunny visits in the Quad Cities this Easter Spring's biggest holiday is almost here! Here's a list of where you can find fun Easter activities for the whole family this year.
	Traffic Update: Davenport Northwest Boulevard closure Davenport Northwest Boulevard closure.
	4 Your Money \| Impact of the Fed Policy It’s time for 4 Your Money! We were joined by David Nelson CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management to talk about the impact of the current Fed Policy.
	4 Your Money \| Improvement It’s time for 4 Your Money! We were joined by David Nelson CEO of NelsonCorp Wealth Management to talk about the improvement of the economy.
	Hop over for Easter fun with Rock Island Parks and Recreation Hippity, hoppity, Easter's on its way, and Rock Island Parks and Recreation is lending a hand to help the Bunny kick off your festivities! Dan Gleason hopped in to Local 4 to tell us how you can help somebunny special put a spring in their step with Rock Island Parks and Recreation. For more information, click here.
	Mount Sinai Christian Fellowship presents last surviving witness to the lynching of Emmett Till A Quad-City church is presenting a program with the theme 'Healing Our Nation,' featuring guest speaker Reverend Wheeler Parker Jr., the last surviving witness to the lynching of Emmett Till. Pastor Frank Livingston from Mount Sinai Christian Fellowship spoke with Local 4 about the Black History Worship Experience. For more information, click here.
	Sterling man charged with possessing, disseminating child pornography The investigation is ongoing, state police said.
	Former Davenport Mayor, passes away at age 70 Davenport Alderman: Former Davenport Mayor, passed away .
	Moline champions honored by county board The Moline Maroons boys high school state championship basketball team was honored by the Rock Island County Board on Tuesday, March 21. By a unanimous vote at its monthly meeting, the county board adopted a proclamation naming March 21st as “Moline Maroons Day in Rock Island County.” Coach Sean Taylor and Assistant Coach Patrick Rangel were on hand with the team and their parents for the board presentation, as well as for an informal reception hosted by the County Board Chairman, prior to the board meeting. Rock Island County board chairman Richard Brunk, left, stands with his grandsons and the state champion Moline Maroons boys basketball team, on March 21, 2023. Chairman Richard “Quijas” Brunk, in presenting the proclamation, expressed community pride in the team’s historic 35-3 season, which was capped off with a first-ever state title. On March 11, 2023, the Maroons team earned their first 4A State Title over Benet Academy, 59-43. To show how the team’s success touched young and old alike, Brunk on Tuesday had two of his grandchildren – who had cheered for the team -- present the proclamation to the team. “I know that I speak for the board and the community – and not just because I am from Moline and not just because my uncle (Porter Bennett) played on the 1943 Moline basketball team that finished second at state,” board member and Moline High alum Porter McNeil said. “But because Sean Taylor and his group of young, talented athletes really lifted the spirits of the community.” “To win the state championship in Illinois, with the Chicago teams, the suburban teams and the powerhouse downstate teams, is really incredible and – so -- huge congratulations to this team,” said McNeil, which was followed by a standing ovation for the Maroons’ team and coaches.
	Spring blooming at QCCA Expo Center this weekend at Flower and Garden show Even if natural spring flowers aren't here yet, you can get a taste of that nature's floral beauty at the show and Preview Gala on March 23-26.
	Crash near I-74 Bridge in Bettendorf disrupts traffic Details are minimal, but News 8 observed several first responders along Grant Street Wednesday afternoon.
	1 dead, 1 injured after single-vehicle crash in Henry Co. One man died and one man was injured after a single-vehicle crash in Henry County Wednesday.
	Townsquare Media: Battle of the Bands returns to Mississippi Valley Fair Grounds Battle of the Bands returns to Mississippi Valley Fair Grounds
	$50M in grants available for Illinois creatives Thanks to advocacy efforts by a statewide coalition led by Arts Alliance Illinois, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) will distribute a historic $50 million in grant money to help businesses, nonprofit organizations, and sole proprietors in the creative sector that have struggled because of the COVID pandemic. Quad City Arts is helping Arts Alliance Illinois spread the word and made the announcement Wednesday afternoon. (quadcityarts.com) “We know we have a lot of creatives in our region that were hit hard during the pandemic, and we want to make sure they are aware of this opportunity,” the rock Island-based nonprofit said in its email. The DCEO Illinois Creative Recovery Grant application portal opens on Wednesday, April 5. If you operate in the creative space, Quad City Arts encourages you to visit illinois.gov/B2B for details on eligibility guidelines and more information on how to apply. Hotels and restaurants also will be eligible for the funding. Applications will open on April 5, and eligibility guidelines and more are available at Illinois.gov/B2B. Arts Alliance is your go-to resource for help with your application. Visit their website at artsalliance.org/creativerecovery. Through the state’s B2B and Business Interruption Grant (BIG) programs, DCEO has provided more than $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic. The DCEO will hold a webinar on Friday, March 24, at 10 a.m. on how to apply for grants. You can register HERE, and grant applications will be due May 10 at 11:59 p.m.
	Kaaba Shriners host player appreciation lunch ahead of Iowa Shrine Bowl The Kaaba Shriners hosted a plater appreciation lunch Tuesday, ahead of the upcoming Iowa Shrine Bowl.
	Science behind atmospheric rivers Several atmospheric rivers have brought devastating flooding to California.
	I74 iowa side A crash along Grant Street in Bettendorf stalled traffic. This video from Mike Hannan shows parts of the wreck. Credit: Mike hannan
	Palmer Hills Golf Course in Bettendorf opened today The City of Bettendorf has a new partnership for Palmer Grill with a new food menu starting in April.
	H&R block open after damage to the downtown Davenport office Police have not confirmed any details at this time.
	Bonnie And Clyde Might Have Left Some Bank Robbery Loot In Iowa Continue reading…
	Nonprofit gearing up for Farm Worker Awareness Week \| News 8 Now We also have the latest forecast update for the Quad Cities.
	Thunder Bay Grill serves up fig & goat cheese bruschetta, egg yolk ravioli with goat cheese, and Panzanella salad with Jenna & Nina Zach Bolin says these courses are being offered to showcase the different things their team can do. These dishes will only be available this week.
	'Kitten shower' helps shelter get ready for new animals Join King's Harvest Pet Rescue at their Annual Kitten Shower on Saturday, March 25th from 12 to 4 p.m. They'll have games (with prizes!), activities, sweets, a photo wall and much more. The pet rescue is located at 2504 W. Central Park Avenue in Davenport. (kingsharvestpetrescue.org) A kitten shower helps the shelter prepare for the upcoming kitten season. King's Harvest rescues and fosters around 400 kittens and their mothers each season. All proceeds from the kitten shower go towards upkeep of the facility, providing food and shelter for the animals and assisting with any unexpected veterinary bills. For more information on King's Harvest Pet Rescue or the kitten shower, visit their Facebook page or their website.
	“Civil Air Patrol Lecture Series: United States Air Force @ 75,” March 29 On March 29, the Eastern Branch of the Davenport Public Library invites patrons to join the Civil Air Patrol in recounting its history in the Quad Cities and nationally in the presentation Civil Air Patrol Lecture Series: United States Air Force @ 75, an examination of some of the organization's most significant accomplishments in celebration of its 75th year.
	This Famous Food Invention Was Created In Eastern Iowa Continue reading…
	Car crashes into Davenport H&R Block building Tuesday night The building manager told News 8 that the driver ran a red light, hit a car and then went through the business' front window.
	Former Saints Player Makes NHL Debut With Chicago Blackhawks Continue reading…
	Learn new skills for free with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Ever want to learn something new but you didn’t think you had the time? Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) has the answer. They’re offering a selection of free continuing education courses to the public from April 1 – 27 to celebrate National Community College Month. All courses are 60 - 90 minutes long and are offered in-person or online through Zoom. “Community College Month is the perfect time to celebrate all EICC has to offer,” said EICC Director of Continuing Education and Professional Development, Paula Arends. “It’s our way of thanking the community for their support and introduce them to the many great continuing education courses we have available. There’s truly something for everyone." Classes cover a wide range of topics that are taught by EICC instructors. You can try a new hobby, learn about a new career or pick up a valuable life skill. Classes include: Spring Maintenance for Your Bicycle Drawing Basics for Beginners Tree Pruning 101 DIY Home HVAC Diesel Engine Basics Scones for the Perfect English Tea Credit 101 Vehicle Maintenance 101 Introduction to Delivering a Baby Kitchen Knife Skills Creating a Business Plan You Can Build a Website! Identity Crisis: Identity, Authentication, and Authorization Ways to Become a Better Mentor Registration is required; to view the full schedule and/or register, click here. Community College Month is an educational campaign organized by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). The main goal of Community College Month is improving awareness of the economic, academic, and equity advantages of attending community colleges. EICC is proud to be among the 1,000+ community colleges across the U.S. recognizing April as Community College Month.
	Study: Iowa ethanol plants connecting to pipelines could generate an additional $2B a year Those who oppose carbon pipelines say the study is "just fear-mongering."
	Iowa governor continues push for sale of E-15 gasoline Several other Midwest governors signed the letter Gov. Kim Reynolds sent to the EPA.
	QC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce marks 15th anniversary with presentation, "When Life Doesn't Go as Planned", awards The Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is hosting their Spring Celebration on their 15th anniversary with a keynote presentation on “When Life Doesn't Go as Planned: Drawing Strength from Our Herencia” by Marisol Solarte-Erlacher, M.A., LPC. The Celebration will be on Friday, April 14 at 6 p.m. at Rhythm City Casino, 7077 Elmore Avenue in Davenport. The evening is a salute to the Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s accomplishments, members and supporters. Photos courtesy QC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Solarte-Erlacher is an award-winning trauma expert, keynote speaker and corporate consultant. She facilitates programming that strengthens employee resilience and enhances team performance. She works with nonprofit organizations, mid-sized corporations and public service entities. She is also the creator and host of the podcast “Resilience and Resistance,” which features successful Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color who have overcome trauma and become resilient. Solarte-Erlacher was a therapist in private practice, clinical supervisor for Master of Counseling students at the University of Colorado at Denver and is currently president of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) International Association. She and her family live in Denver. Registration is online through April 6th and sponsorship opportunities are available. The annual gala will feature a reception, entertainment, dinner, business awards and the opportunity to mingle with colleagues, clients, business leaders, community partners and Hispanic Chamber members. Local businesses that are making a positive difference in the Hispanic and multicultural communities will be honored. Recipients of the awards include: Small Business of the Year – Jazmin Newton, Newton Law Nonprofit of the Year – Project NOW Advocate of the Year – Araceli Vazquez Corporate Member of the Year – Group O For more information on the Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, tickets or sponsorship information, click here or call (563) 214-5160.
	For King & Country, April 6 Currently touring in support of their 2022 album What Are We Waiting For?, which became the duo's first number-one entry on Billboard's Christian Albums chart, the performing siblings of For King & Country headline an April 6 concert event at Moline's Vibrant Arena at the MARK, the pair's latest recording also landing chart-topping singles with "Relate" and "For God Is with Us."
	Los Dos Carnales, April 2 On April 2, the Vibrant Arena at the MARK will be filled with the thrilling sounds of corridos, bandas, and romanticos when the Moline amphitheater presents a night with the touring artists of Los Dos Carnales, the norteño musicians whose prolific output includes the release of three studio albums and three EPs in 2021 alone.
	Sandburg College seeking support of extraordinary women The Galesburg-based Carl Sandburg College Foundation and Sandburg’s College of Nursing want to spotlight difference makers as they have joined the national initiative 100 Extraordinary Women, engaging women to pledge their support toward nursing student success and the school's new Science and Technology Center. The Sandburg Foundation is seeking a minimum of 100 women to each donate or pledge $1,000 over five years ($200 per year or $16.67 per month). Donors can make their payment in one amount, donate annually or make bimonthly gifts by credit card on the 100 Extraordinary Women website HERE. 100 Extraordinary Women is an online fundraising platform for nonprofits, offering an easy and effective way to raise significant funds among women. Individuals may also group together to share their pledge, and anyone may give in honor or in memory of a special woman. These donations will help remove educational barriers such as daycare costs and availability, reliable transportation and fuel prices, according to a college release Wednesday. They also will 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 will help with end-of-program costs like board fees and fingerprinting. Throughout the campaign, Sandburg will also celebrate how nursing education at the college has evolved through its first 56 years to meet changing health care needs. A rendering of the Galesburg college's new Science and Technology Center. In the coming months, Sandburg will break ground on a new multimillion-dollar Science and Technology Center that will serve as the centerpiece of its main campus in Galesburg. The building will house all health professions and include a simulation lab, skills labs and collaborative classroom settings that can provide up-to-date workforce learning. This environment will offer an area for both hands-on and theory learning to assist students in developing skills necessary for today's fast-paced healthcare environment, making it a one-stop shop for nursing students, the college release said. Carl Sandburg College plans to complete the new facility in summer 2024. Construction is estimated to be completed in time for the 2024 fall semester. 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 the new Science and Technology Center. To celebrate the power of this initiative, donors will be invited to take part in a celebration event this fall to recognize each participant. To join the initiative or to give in honor of an extraordinary woman, visit bit.ly/sandburg100. For questions, more information or to donate, contact Dr. Emily Schaeffer, dean of nursing professions, at eschaeffer@sandburg.edu or 309.341.5253 or Eric Johnson, chief advancement officer, at ebjohnson@sandburg.edu or 309.341.5349. You can see a video of the planned center HERE.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s a Local 4 News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: JOSEPH COOK, 50, 5’9”, 170 pounds, gray hair, hazel eyes. Scott County warrants for possession of controlled substance and probation violation on original charges of possession of controlled substance and possession of burglary tools. KEYNON PULLIAM, 23, 5’11”, 170 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Rock Island County warrant probation violation on original charge of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. Joseph Cook (L) and Kenynon Pulliam (Crime Stoppers) You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at (309) 762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	Davenport library offers programs on rain gardens Did you know installing attractive landscapes such as rain gardens on your property can help improve water quality and reduce stormwater run-off? The Davenport Public Library will provide free programs on the subject Wednesday, March 29th at 6 p.m. at Eastern and Monday, April 24th at 3 p.m. at Fairmount. Davenport’s Clean Water Manager Amy Kay and local homeowner Gina Haddock will walk attendees through what a rain garden is, how to plan and maintain one, and the benefits of adding this eye-catching water quality feature to any home. The program will include information on the city’s 50/50 cost-share program, the beneficial habitat rain gardens provide, and how rain gardens help reduce stormwater run-off and improve water quality. Haddock added a rain garden to her small urban yard in October 2021 with support from the 50/50 Cost Share program. She will summarize the experience from the homeowner's perspective, including soliciting bids, submitting the grant application, and information about the installation and reimbursement process. For more information and to register, visit the Davenport library website HERE.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities headlines for March 22, 2023 A fungus outbreak is happening across the U.S., with Illinois being in the top five for the highest infection rate. The Fed will determine to hike interest rates.
	Numerous Iowa school districts receive 'swatting calls' Tuesday morning Law enforcement agencies, schools and state officials banded together to respond to a series of 30 non-credible threat calls made to 25 communities across Iowa.
	ComEd’s former top lawyer paints Madigan confidant as ‘double agent’ in testimony “Everybody knew him, and he knew everybody,” Tom O’Neill said. “(He was) highly regarded and could basically get into any meeting.”
	Davenport Municipal Airport looks to make upgrades The airport has million dollar plans to reconstruct its south ramp, which dates back to 1947.
	Davenport Municipal Airport looks to make $1 million ramp upgrade The south ramp dates back to 1947, and the city's decided it's now more cost effective to completely reconstruct the pavement.
	Gloomy Wednesday with storms overnight Good morning and happy Wednesday. We are tracking cloudy skies and rain chances for Wednesday. As the day progresses, scattered rain chances will increase with a few rumbles of thunder possible. Highs will top out today in the mid to lower 50's. Strong Storms: A cold front will then slide through during the overnight hours and a few storms will fire due to this. These storms could be on the strong to severe side with large hail and heavy rain being the primary concern. The timing of the storms will be mainly after midnight through 6 am. A few showers will be possible Thursday morning but we are expected to dry out by the afternoon. Temps will be slightly cooler with temps in the upper 40's to lower 50's.
	Maui Jim-scheme suspect in Illinois pleads guilty Erica Hornof, 36, of Bradford, Ill., pleaded guilty on Monday to three counts of mail fraud and three counts of wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud sunglasses manufacturer Maui Jim, according to a news release. Sentencing for Hornof has been scheduled for June 15 at the U.S. Courthouse in Peoria before U.S. District Judge James E. Shadid. In court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan E. Hawley, Hornof admitted guilt to all six charges, the release says. During the hearing, the government stated that Hornof, a long-term employee of Maui Jim, was a Lead Repair Technician, responsible for fixing sunglasses. As such, she had access to the parts to construct sunglasses, the release shows. The release says Maui Jim conducted an internal investigation that revealed Hornof had, in fact, been stealing sunglasses parts. She used the stolen parts to assemble sunglasses and sold them to two individuals who then sold them on eBay. The mail fraud charges result from her use of the U.S. Mail Service to send the stolen goods. The wire fraud charges stem from her use of a PayPal account to transfer payments to her Princeville State Bank account. As alleged in the indictment, Hornof defrauded Maui Jim of more than $100,000, according to the release. Hornof remains free on bond, pending sentencing. Hornof faces statutory penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment, followed by up to a three-year term of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine on each of the six counts, the release says. The case investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Criminal Chief Darilynn J. Knauss is representing the government in the prosecution.
	Iowa prison searched after repeated use of overdose antidote Authorities are searching for contraband at an Iowa prison after several sickened inmates and workers were treated over the weekend with the life-saving overdose antidote Narcan.
	QC Restaurant Week: Cafes and delis offer deals on salads, sandwiches and more Quad-Citians can use their lunch breaks to check out new restaurants and find a good deal this QC Restaurant Week.
	Good Morning for Wednesday, March 22, 2023 - Davenport prepares businesses and residents for spring flooding,- "swatting" affects schools across Iowa,- and this is QC Restaurant Week.
	SUV crashes into H & R Block, Davenport A heavy police presence remained in the area of Fourth and Harrison streets at 12:30 a.m. Wednesday in downtown Davenport. Davenport Police were near two severely damaged SUVs - a Kia and a Jeep. The Kia crashed into the H & R Block building, 332 N. Harrison St. Glass and debris littered the sidewalk and the street. There was a heavy police presence in downtown Davenport after an SUV drove into H & R block late Tuesday. (photo by Eric Olsen) There was a heavy police presence in downtown Davenport after an SUV drove into H & R block late Tuesday. (photo by Eric Olsen) Several officers and squad cars remained in the area for some time. Officers at the scene told our Local 4 News crew there were at least two minor injuries from the incident. We do not know whether anyone has been charged in connection with the incident. Local 4 News will stay in contact with law enforcement to provide details when they become available. window.loadAnvato({"mcp":"LIN","width":"100%","height":"100%","video":"8492578","autoplay":false,"expect_preroll":true,"pInstance":"p1","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","cs_ucfr":""}},"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%3D8492578%26pers_cid%3Dunknown%26vidcat%3D/news/local_news%26bob_ck%3D[bob_ck_val]%26d_code%3D1%26pagetype%3Dsubindex%26hlmeta%3Dlocal%20news%26aa%3Df"},"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.eyJ2aWQiOiI4NDkyNTc4IiwiaXNzIjoiUmF3azVBYU9FWHhhUkNSbzJ6Q25CY2tkQjNLeTBkbkQiLCJleHAiOjE2Nzk0Njg3MDl9.V6hbS8F77TQRTH3NS3janr682-PG82UTvhDCEofMO3A","expectPrerollTimeout":8,"nxs":{"mp4Url":"https://tkx.mp.lura.live/rest/v2/mcp/video/8492578?anvack=26qYwQV3rJ52OI2WxpUdpTDRpVdAMgG1&token=%7E5iywc5YAZUS%2BMihTYluqVLloGseZvo70MQ%3D%3D","enableFloatingPlayer":true},"disableMutedAutoplay":false,"recommendations":false,"expectPreroll":true,"titleVisible":true,"pauseOnClick":true,"trackTimePeriod":60,"isPermutiveEnabled":true,"pauseOnTabInactive":false});
Tuesday, March 21st, 2023
	QCA schools, police weigh in on new school shooter safe rooms The bulletproof shelter is designed to deploy in just ten seconds, but currently has a hefty price tag of $60,000.
	2nd Illinois prison guard sentenced A second Illinois corrections officer has been sentenced to prison, according to a news release. Todd Sheffler. 54, a former lieutenant at the Western Illinois Correctional Center in Mt. Sterling, was sentenced Tuesday to an aggregate 20 years’ imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for civil rights deprivation resulting in bodily injury and death and obstruction of justice in connection with the death of Larry Earvin, an inmate at the facility, At the sentencing hearing in front of Senior U.S. District Judge Sue E. Myerscough, the government summarized the evidence from Sheffler’s 2022 trial. During the trial, the government presented evidence that Sheffler and co-defendants Alex Banta, 31, who was a correctional officer, and Willie Hedden, 43, who was a sergeant, participated in the May 17, 2018, assault of Earvin, 65, during their forcible escort of Earvin from the residential housing unit of the prison to the segregation housing unit while he was restrained and handcuffed behind his back and while he posed no physical threat to the defendants or other correctional officers, the release says. According to the release, the government presented further evidence that Sheffler, as the lieutenant and senior officer to co-defendants Hedden and Banta, not only participated in the assault but had a duty to intervene to prevent it. The assault resulted in serious bodily injury to Earvin, including multiple broken ribs, a punctured mesentery (tissue in the abdomen), and other serious internal injuries, and resulted in Earvin’s death in June 2018. After the assault, all three defendants failed to ensure Earvin received medical care and instead sought medical attention for their own minor scratches and thereafter falsified incident reports that they filed with prison officials and lied to the Illinois State Police by denying any knowledge of or participation in the assault, the release shows. Also at the sentencing, the government presented evidence, including testimony from co-defendant Hedden, that it was part of the culture at the facility to abuse inmates and lie to cover up the abuse. At Banta’s sentencing last week, during which Judge Myerscough also sentenced him to 20 years’ imprisonment, the government summarized the evidence establishing that Banta had inflicted the most serious blows leading to Earvin’s death, including jumping in the air and landing on Earvin with both knees, according to the release. Hedden testified at Tuesday's sentencing about a prior incident in which Sheffler was the segregation lieutenant during a previous beating of an inmate in the segregation building. During that beating, according to Hedden, Sheffler instructed the assaulting correctional officers through hand motions to strike the inmate below the head but above the waist. And the government also again presented the testimony of Earvin’s son, who stated that although he didn’t wish for anyone to go to prison, he believed that Sheffler’s request for a 30-month sentence for causing the death of his father was an “insult.” The release says Sheffler’s sentence, like Banta’s sentence, consisted of concurrent 15-year terms of imprisonment on two of the five counts of the indictment: conspiracy to deprive civil rights and deprivation of civil rights under color of law resulting in bodily injury and death. He also received five-year terms of imprisonment on the remaining three counts – conspiracy to engage in misleading conduct; obstruction – falsification of a document; and obstruction – misleading conduct – to run concurrent to each other and consecutive to the fifteen-year terms. A federal grand jury had previously returned an indictment against Sheffler, of Mendon, Illinois; Hedden, of Mt. Sterling, Illinois; and Banta, of Quincy, Illinois, in December 2019. At the first trial in April 2022, Banta was convicted of all five charges in the indictment. The jury in that joint trial was unable to reach verdicts as to Sheffler, resulting in a retrial in August 2022 at which he was convicted of the same charges. Judge Myerscough ordered that both Banta and Sheffler be detained pending their sentencings, the release says. Hedden pleaded guilty in March 2022 to both civil rights charges and to conspiracy to engage in misleading conduct. His sentencing is set for March 22, 2023, at 10 a.m. in the federal courthouse in Springfield, Illinois. “At today’s and last week’s sentencings, we advised the court that the government’s job is to seek justice and not to win, and that an appropriate sentence in this case should include justice for the victim, Mr. Earvin,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris. “We hope that the convictions of Todd Sheffler, Alex Banta, and Willie Hedden and today’s sentence for Todd Sheffler and last week’s sentence for Alex Banta provide a measure of justice for Larry Earvin and his family. We also hope it serves as a warning to all those who would abuse governmental power that they will be held accountable under the law." "Although the vicious and brutal beating of Mr. Earvin cost him his life, and that is a loss that can never be remedied, all of those persons whom the evidence established violated Mr. Earvin’s constitutional rights and caused his death (Sheffler, Hedden, and Banta) have been and are being held accountable," he continued. "Our prosecution of this case demonstrates our continued commitment to equal justice under the law and to protecting society’s vulnerable, including those in our prisons.” Harris added that his office also wanted to express its appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Springfield Office and highlighted the complete cooperation of the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), for their thorough and professional investigation of this most important civil rights matter. Harris also especially recognized and thanked the efforts of FBI Special Agents Angela Bray and Price McCarty for their tireless efforts, without which a just outcome in this matter would not have been possible. In addition, Harris noted the important testimony of IDOC witnesses who initially participated in the cover up of these offenses, but ultimately came forward and told the truth about the events surrounding Earvin’s death. Holding the defendants accountable for Earvin's death would not have been possible without their testimony. Finally, Harris noted that the actions of a few here had unfairly tarnished the reputations of the men and women in law enforcement who honorably serve their communities with professionalism on a daily basis. “While the conduct of Todd Sheffler is not characteristic of the vast majority of those working in law enforcement, it unfortunately undermines the efforts of officers who serve with integrity and who bear the responsibility to respect and defend the rights of those under their watch,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge David Nanz. “Sheffler’s actions tarnished the reputation and badge worn proudly by the many hard-working and upstanding officers who abide by their oath. The FBI is unyielding in our commitment to zealously protect the rights of all Americans and to hold accountable anyone charged with safeguarding those rights.” “ISP thoroughly investigates civil rights violations to hold those who break the law accountable,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “This type of conduct is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated.” The statutory penalties for each of the civil rights resulting in death charges are up to life imprisonment. The statutory penalties for each of the obstruction of justice charges are up to 20 years of imprisonment. The case was the result of a joint investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois, the FBI-Springfield Field Office, and the Illinois State Police Division of Internal Investigation, with the cooperation of the Illinois Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy A. Bass and Eugene L. Miller represent the government in the prosecution.
	GiGi’s Playhouse celebrates World Down Syndrome Day GiGi’s Playhouse celebrates World Down Syndrome Day.
	Alabama school tests folding school shooter safe rooms; QC area schools, police weigh in The bulletproof shelter is designed to deploy in just ten seconds, but currently has a hefty price tag of $60,000.
	Spring cleanup opportunities in the Quad Cities Spring has officially arrived, and we've made a list of community cleaning efforts soon to be underway!
	Services set for former Davenport mayor, police officer Funeral services for a longtime Davenport Police Officer and former Davenport mayor will be Monday. Phillip C. Yerington, 70, of Bettendorf, passed away unexpectedly on Monday. Phillip Yerington (contributed photo) He graduated from Davenport Central High School and earned his criminal justice degree from St. Ambrose College (now St. Ambrose University.) He joined the Davenport Police Department in 1974, and served for 38 years. He also served two consecutive terms as the mayor of Davenport. Visitation will be held from 1-6 p.m. Sunday at Weerts. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Weerts Funeral Home, 3625 Jersey Ridge Road, Davenport. Burial will be held after the service at Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be left to Kings Harvest or Davenport Little League. To leave online condolences, visit here.
	Rock Island and Rockridge softball teams dual With the start of Spring returns softball. Rock Island and Rockridge faced off on Tuesday night.
	Senioritis: “Grumpy Old Men: The Musical,” at the Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse through May 6 The performers at Sunday's performance of director Curt Wollan's production shined, as they most always do at this theatre, and the jokes – most of them innuendos and phallic allusions – were actually pretty funny, and delivered well.
	Check out all that's brewing in Bettendorf! From QC Restaurant Week to new businesses opening up shop, it's a busy time for Bettendorf! Ryan Jantzi with the Quad Cities Chamber visited Local 4 to talk about what's brewing in Bettendorf. For more information, click here.
	Golf with the pros at John Deere Classic Organizations, individuals and families will have an opportunity to play in this year’s John Deere Classic Monday Pro-Am on July 3 with current and future PGA Tour players at TPC Deere Run. Top golfers who have played in past Monday Pro-Ams include the likes of major championship winners Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, John Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Patrick Reed, according to a news release. “The John Deere Classic is pleased to provide the opportunity to play in our Monday Pro-Am to companies, individuals and families who might not have been able to do so in the past,” said Tournament Director Andrew Lehman. “PGA Tour pro-ams are a proven way to build bonds with important people in our lives be they business associates, customers or family members. And there’s no better way to spend a Monday afternoon than on the beautiful property of TPC Deere Run.” In addition to playing an 18-hole round of golf with a world class golfer, each participant will receive an $800 shopping experience for products available only to pro-am players, according to tournament officials. A generous ticket package also will be included so that participants’ friends and family will be able to enjoy tournament rounds. Details on Monday Pro-Am opportunities are available here or by contacting Jennifer Kress or Sarah Hill at 309-762-4653. The 53nd edition of the Quad Cities-based PGA Tour event will be the week of July 3-9 at TPC Deere Run in Silvis with J.T. Poston as defending champion. In a wire-to-wire victory, Poston won by three shots in 2022 with a 21-under par total for the 72-hole event. The tournament will offer a $7.4 million purse, an increase of $300,000, The John Deere Classic, which includes Birdies for Charity, is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization located in the John Deere Classic tournament offices at 15623 Coaltown Road, East Moline, Illinois. Since its founding in 1971, the tournament has helped raise more than $159.57 million for charity.
	Help sought to find missing Iowa girl The Johnson County Sheriff's Office asks the public for help to find a missing 14-year-old girl. Bristol Wieland was last seen at 3 p.m. Friday, March 17, in Hills, Iowa, a news release says. She is 5'4" and weighs 90 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. Bristol Wieland (contributed photo) She was last seen wearing a red sweatshirt with a Champion logo, blue jeans with holes in the knees, and tan Ugg shoes. She wears white-and-black glasses. She was reported as missing on Monday, the release says. Anyone who has any information that could help locate her should call their local law enforcement agency.
	John Deere Classic makes Pro-Am spots available John Deere Classic makes Pro-Am spots available.
	Phil Yerrington remembered for strong, at times brash leadership Davenport officials remember Phil Yerington as a fierce advocate for the city, whose strong opinions awarded him friends and attracted opponents.
	Former DeWitt teacher faces sexual exploitation charges A 37-year-old former DeWitt teacher faces multiple charges after a victim alleged an inappropriate relationship occurred, according to the Central DeWitt Community School District superintendent, court documents and jail records. Cody LaKose, of Cedar Rapids, faces a felony charge of sexual exploitation of a minor-cause to engage in act, a felony charge of sexual exploitation by a school employee, and three aggravated misdemeanor charges of sexual exploitation by a school employee, court records show. Cody LaKose (photo: Clinton County Jail) An investigation begins On March 2, 2022, DeWitt Police opened an investigation into alleged incidents involving LaKose, according to arrest affidavits. The investigation was a result of a former student who alleged being groomed by LaKose and who had a sexual relationship with the teacher while the victim was a student at Central DeWitt, affidavits show. The victim feared LaKose could be targeting and grooming students in his current teaching position, police report in arrest affidavits. According to affidavits, the victim reported that during the spring of 2017, while the student was still a minor, LaKose and the victim began a sexual relationship, with some incidents in his school office. The former student also provided the police with digital messages LaKose had sent. "These messages were sexual in nature and corroborate the information the victim reported to the DeWitt Police Department," police allege in affidavits. According to court documents, LaKose was arrested Tuesday on a warrant. He was being held Tuesday on a $10,000 cash-only bond in Clinton County Jail. Sexual exploitation of a minor is a Class C felony, which carries a sentence of no more than 10 years and a fine of $1,000 to $10,000. DeWitt superintendent responds In a message to the Central DeWitt Community School District community, Superintendent Dan Peterson responded to LaKose's arrest. "As many of you know, Cody LaKose was a high school science teacher and coach for our school district from August 2010 to December 2018. At that time, he resigned from the school district midyear," the message says. There isn’t a lot that the district can say about his employment other than the dates of his employment, Peterson says in the message. "We thoroughly investigate any information we receive regarding inappropriate acts, and go above and beyond to try to discover more. Anything we discovered regarding LaKose was referred to law enforcement at the time. LaKose’s personnel information was subpoenaed by law enforcement. I have been following the situation and requesting updates periodically for the past four years. Thank goodness they recently had a break in the case allowing them to proceed," Peterson says in the message. "These are extremely ugly allegations and findings, but I want to be transparent with the information that can be shared. I realize that just because information can be shared, doesn’t mean it should be shared," Peterson continues. "I just believe in this situation, regarding a former school employee, I should provide as much information as I can." "Please keep the victim that came forward and their family in your thoughts and prayers. This took such amazing courage," Peterson says. "This is never the type of information I want to share with you. I am ashamed, disappointed, and heartbroken that this happened on my watch over our amazing school district. I pray that nothing like this ever happens again here … or anywhere else. Most importantly, I hope that this allows those involved to begin to heal." Peterson says anyone with questions or comments may contact him "and I will do my best to respond."
	Plambeck, woman who had nearly 200 dogs, back in court Plambeck's lawyer requested that the defense be given more time to review redacted information from prosecutors. Her next court date is slated for May 2.
	Numerous Iowa school districts receive 'swatting calls' Tuesday morning Law enforcement agencies, schools and state officials banded together to respond to a series of 30 non-credible threat calls made to 25 communities across Iowa.
	Local women to perform music by women at Figge Women are still woefully underrepresented on classical music programs worldwide. The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is working to change that one program at a time. The next "Up Close" chamber music concert -- Saturday, March 25, at 7:30 p.m. at the Figge Art Museum (225 W. 2nd St., Davenport) -- will feature all female performers playing mostly music by women. Among the women composers on the March 25 program is Jessie Montgomery (submitted photo). After QCSO principal cellist Hannah Holman performs from the J.S. Bach Cello Suite No. 4 in E-flat major, the program includes: Kaija Saariaho's Dreaming Chaconne for Solo Cello (2010) Augusta Read Thomas's Incantation for Solo Violin (1995) Ellen Taaffe Zwilich's A Little Violin Music in Memory of Elijah McClain for Solo Violin (2020) Rebecca Clarke's Two Pieces for Violin and Cello (ca. 1916) Jessie Montgomery's Strum for String Quartet (2006, revised 2012) Amy Beach's Piano Quintet in F-sharp minor (1907) In honor of the Figge’s major exhibit Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960, as well as Women's History Month, the museum and QCSO chamber series are celebrating women in music. The first half of the program will take place in the Winter Garden and the second half will be in the lobby. In addition to Hannah Holman, the concert features the QCSO's Emily Nash, violin; Janis Sakai, violin; Deborah Dakin, viola, and pianist Marian Lee. Hannah Holman is principal cellist of the Quad City Symphony. “It's a hugely neglected genre,” Holman said Tuesday of music written by women. A major study of 100 orchestras worldwide found that just 5 percent of all programmed works in the 2020-21 season were penned by women. It’s fitting now to feature female composers and female performers since all four principal string players in the QCSO are women, Holman said. In addition to the principal cellist, the concertmaster (principal first violin) is Naha Greenholtz (who’s also director of the Up Close series), principal 2nd violin is Autumn Chodorowski, and principal viola is Deborah Dakin. “If you're going to program the voice of a female composer, it's kind of nice to do it from a female perspective,” Holman said, noting she appreciated this month’s Masterworks highlighting women composers. Fierce females “It was great. I think everybody was especially surprised -- I'll speak for myself. I was especially moved and delighted by the Louise Farrenc. Everybody was like, this is a great piece,” Holman said of the Farrenc Symphony No. 3 in G minor (1847). A symphony by Louise Farrenc (1804-1875) was on the March 2023 Masterworks concerts. “I kept singing those tunes like the whole following week,” she said. “It was very rare because almost everybody in the section -- and there’s a very experienced cello section of professionals that have played for decades -- none of us had played any of those women’s pieces on the last Masterworks,” Holman said. The “Fierce Females” concerts in early March featured Joan Tower’s “Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman” (1987), Louise Farrenc’s Symphony No. 3 in G minor (1847) and Florence Price’s excerpt from “The Mississippi River” (1934). “The true test will be if we can get enough awareness out there that then they're programmed more regularly throughout the year, and not just during Women's History Month,” she added. Most of the female composers on the March 25 program are living, with the exception of Amy Beach (1867-1944) and Rebecca Clarke (1886-1979). The number of current women composers is increasing and Holman is friends with several on the Juilliard School composition faculty. “I think we are making progress but sometimes it feels slow,” she said. A composer, conductor and retired music professor, Rebecca Burkhardt (director of orchestral activities at University of Northern Iowa from 1988-2020) is writing a new cello concerto for Hannah Holman. She recently commissioned a new cello concerto from Rebecca Burkhardt, former director of orchestral activities at University of Northern Iowa, now living in Santa Fe, N.M. She also wrote a piece in 2016 for the string trio Holman is in, which they recorded. “Rebecca's great. And we've worked with her; we've gone on tour to Brazil with her,” Holman said. “She's a real force. She really was amazing at University of Northern Iowa.” The QCSO is one of 30 orchestras nationwide that’s part of the League of American Orchestras’ Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program. The unprecedented national consortium ensures that new works by women composers, each commissioned by the League, will be infused in orchestra seasons to come, with multiple performances throughout the country. Composer Angel Lam has been commissioned by the QCSO to write a new piece, to be performed in April 2024. The QCSO will partner with composer Angel Lam for a performance of her new work on its final Masterworks concert of the 2024 season, scheduled for April 6-7, 2024. Free Figge talk The cellist will give a free talk at the Figge on the program Thursday, March 23, at 6:30 p.m. Holman will explore and celebrate extraordinary female instrumentalists and composers throughout musical history. Holman is also founder and artistic director of The Deanery School of Music in Davenport. The string players on Saturday will perform in the museum Winter Garden area, including on the stairs, for the first half of the concert, and patrons will stand for that (an estimated 30 minutes). Holman called that part “a living exhibit.” “It's a really cool idea. I'm excited to see how it works,” she said. The second half (featuring piano) will be in the Grand Lobby. Holman also praised the Figge women's sporting fashion exhibit and its reaching out to many community groups to partner in complementary programs like this one. Part of the Figge's "Sporting Fashion: Outdoor Girls 1800 to 1960" exhibit, on display through May 7, 2023. “It's wonderful. We're so lucky in the Quad Cities to have so many great things. That space is beautiful and what they bring in is fantastic,” she said. “It’s great that we can expand upon it through music and everything else.” Tickets for the chamber music concert are $25 for adults, and $10 for students, available on the QCSO website HERE.
	Illinois and Iowa representatives reach agreement on Tug Fest dispute The new agreement means there will be a barge placed in the river during the competition to mitigate the effects of the Mississippi River's current.
	Former Central Dewitt High School teacher arrested for sexual exploitation of student According to Clinton County affidavits, Cody LaKose groomed an underage female student into a sexual relationship while he was employed at Central Dewitt High School
	Iowans can anonymously report school threats in new program DES MOINES — On a day when the need was on display, Gov. Kim Reynolds on Tuesday unveiled the new state program where Iowans can anonymously report potential threats of school violence.
	Wisconsin police arrest suspect accused of stealing Rockford funeral van with body inside Authorities in Wisconsin have arrested the suspect of the January theft of a funeral home van containing a body in Rockford.
	Former Central DeWitt teacher charged with sexually abusing a former student A former Central DeWitt High School teacher has been arrested on multiple charges after police say he sexually abused a former student.
	New principal hired for East Moline's Glenview The East Moline School District 37 Board of Education has approved a new principal for Glenview Middle School, Karla Hawley, to start this July. She is currently the principal at Prairie High School in the College Community School District in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Previously, Hawley has worked as the associate principal at Rock Island High School and started her career as a kindergarten teacher at Ridgewood Elementary in East Moline. Karla Hawley She was chosen by a group of stakeholders from Glenview Middle School and the East Moline School District including employees and parents, according to a district release Tuesday. Hawley was chosen for her student-centered focus, leadership, and passion for bringing educators together around a problem of practice. "Mrs. Hawley brings a remarkable amount of energy and leadership to this role," district superintendent Kristin Humphries said. "We are very excited about her ability to bring a team together for a higher purpose - serving our students and families." "I am so honored and excited for this opportunity to lead Glenview Middle School," Hawley said in the release. "I'm looking forward to working with Glenview students, staff, families, and the East Moline community to support and celebrate all students and their educational goals and successes. "Our youth are coming of age in a time where our world evolves almost overnight; it is our responsibility to introduce, teach, and hone the skills that they will one day rely on to be successful global citizens," she added. "I truly can't wait to meet everyone and get started." Hawley is originally from East Moline. She graduated from United Township High School; and earned both her bachelor's (2001) and master's in educational leadership (2008) degrees from Western Illinois University.
	Illinois and Iowa reaches Tug Fest Resolution Changes to this year's Tug fest.
	Maquoketa Cardinal Elementary expected to be in session Thursday According to school officials, the concert scheduled for Thursday will be rescheduled.
	Nu-Metal Madness Tour 2, April 6 A quartet of rock, punk, and metal acts will take the stage at East Moline venue The Rust Belt on April 6 with the area arrival of the Nu-Metal Madness Tour 2, an exhilarating night for the genre's fans boasting a lineup of touring artists (hed)p.e., Crazy Town X, Adema, and Tantric.
	Demun Jones, April 2 Best known for his tenure with the Southern hip-hop ensemble Rehab, country rapper Demun Jones headlines an April 2 solo concert at East Moline venue The Rust Belt, the artist's songs on his album Jones Country lauded by The Front Row Report as "loaded with country lyrics with some insane rap beats and rap skills that can stand with the best of them."

Thursday, March 23rd, 2023

Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023

Tuesday, March 21st, 2023