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

Tuesday, March 25th, 2025
	Riverdale softball defeats Alleman Watch highlights from Riverdale softball’s 4-3 win over Alleman.
	Ben McCollum aims to win championships at Iowa Ben McCollum takes over the Iowa men's basketball program after a record breaking 31-4 season at Drake.
	Muscatine Police Chief graduates from FBI National Academy Chief Anthony Kies was one of 244 law enforcement officers who graduated from the academy.
	Moline Second Alarmers prepare for second chance outside City of Moline The Moline Second Alarmers, a volunteer support group for firefighters on emergency response calls, are planning for a new chapter, as they say they’ve been notified by the City of Moline that their services are no longer needed because of liability issues.
	Sherrard’s Rylan Carton wins KWQC Spotlight Athlete of the Week Sherrard basketball standout Rylan Carton was voted KWQC Athlete of the Week.
	Sterling Fire Department introduces new breathing gear The department's deputy chief said their old gear was two cycles out of date.
	Fire burns over 20 acres in Colona The fire was been determined to be accidental and no injuries were reported.
	'My Happy Place' transforms Davenport teen's bedroom Owen Dangelser has been diagnosed with leukemia and got to see his new room for the first time after an eight-week hospital stay.
	Iowa law banning school library books that depict sex acts on hold again after a new federal ruling Iowa cannot continue to enforce part of its book ban law, a federal judge said on Tuesday.
	Second Alarmers finding new home in Coal Valley The City of Moline said the Second Alarmers can no longer use city-owned facilities and vehicles, citing a review of liability and insurance protocols.
	Illinois could soon tax services for alternative funding Sales taxes in Illinois could soon change. A move in Springfield would have the state tax services like haircuts, landscaping and carpet cleaning and professional services like those provided by lawyers and architects. Reports says the new fees could generate $2 billion per year, money that could reportedly go to education, public transit and paying down the state's pension liability. No state lawmakers have gotten behind it as a sponsor.
	Iowa bill adds work requirements for many on Medicaid The Iowa Senate sent a bill to the Iowa House that would add work requirements for many people on Medicaid. The bill, Senate File 615, passed along party lines, with Republicans backing it. The bill would require 80 hours of work a month to stay eligible for the income-based medical assistance. Those given exceptions include those younger than 19, people over 65, those with dependents under the age of six and pregnant women. For more information, click here.
	No bomb found after threat at Monmouth High School Officials ask anyone with information to contact the Monmouth Police Department.
	City of Davenport's credit ratings reaffirmed by Moody's, S&P Global The City of Davenport's credit ratings have been reaffirmed by both Moody's and Standard & Poor's, demonstrating the city's financial health and outlook, according to a news release. City of Davenport (davenportiowa.com) The city's S&P rating is AA and stable. In reaffirming the city's Aa2 rating, Moody's also upgraded the outlook from stable to positive. Moody's highlighted several of the city's credit strengths, including its role as a regional economic center, strong available fund balance, and liquidity ratios. S&P also noted the city's strong economic growth potential in its rating review. "Achieving strong credit ratings from Moody's and S&P is a testament to our strong financial policies, commitment to balanced budgeting, and robust financial management," said Basia Gerlach, chief financial officer for the City of Davenport. "This success demonstrates the dedication and hard work of elected officials and city staff, whose commitment to excellence drives out financial strategies." Overall, positive credit ratings result in lower borrowing costs, helping the city save money on financing and freeing up funding to spend directly on capital projects including street improvements.
	Bring our your green thumb for the Quad City Botanical Center plant sale Spring is officially here, and it's time to think ahead for what you want to plant now. Horticulturist Kate Mapes joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Quad City Botanical Center's plant sale. For more information, click here.
	Thurgood Marshall Learning Center students to host candidate forum in Rock Island The Rock Island County NAACP has partnered with the West End Revitalization of the Martin Luther King Center to host an engaging and informative municipal candidate forum on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will take place at theYWCA, 513 17th St., Rock Island. City of Rock Island (rigov.org) This forum will be led by the students of the Thurgood Marshall Learning Center's (TMLC) West End Revitalization Club, showcasing the voices and leadership of our youth in the democratic process. The forum will provide a structured format, in which student moderators guide the discussions and ensure that the event runs smoothly. "We are excited to empower our students to take an active role in the electoral process," saidThurgood Brooks, West End Revitalization coordinator. "This forum is an excellent opportunityfor candidates to connect with the community and for our students to learn about civicengagement firsthand." Candidates will be asked a series of prepared questions developed by the TMLC West End Revitalization Club, focusing on issues pertinent to their respective positions. Each candidatewill receive two minutes for introductions, two minutes to respond to each question, and oneminute for a closing statement. If time permits, audience questions will also be posed to thecandidates. This forum is designed to be straightforward and informative. The goal is to elicit substantive information regarding the candidates' positions and plans for the community. The event is open to the public. For more information, visit here.
	Davenport Elementary students honored for perfect attendance In Feb 1600, Davenport Elementary students had perfect attendance.
	Carbon Cliff-Barstow School District implements AI-driven gun detection system In a proactive move to enhance security, the Carbon Cliff-Barstow School District has introduced ZeroEyes, an AI-driven gun detection system designed to identify weapons in real-time.
	Iowa book ban put on hold A federal judge ruled Iowa cannot enforce part of its book ban law (Senate File 496). District Judge Stephen Locher blocked the part of the law that bars school libraries from carrying books that depict sex acts. The law also bans teaching kids about sexual orientation and gender identity before they're in seventh grade. The law passed in 2023, but portions of that were blocked by the judge. His decision was overturned in August and has been enforced this school year.
	Dept. of Veterans Affairs cuts won't affect QC Veterans Outreach Center, Davenport In 2016, the Quad City Veterans Outreach Center opened its doors and helped 37 registered veterans. "When you are a veteran, I think it's instilled in us that service that we give back to our country, or back to other veterans," said Polly Graham, a retired Army colonel who serves on the Quad City Veterans Outreach Center's advisory board. Now in 2025, the outreach center in Davenport helps upwards of 4,500 veterans. "The more people, the more veterans we reach, the more services we can provide," Graham said. "The (veterans are) happier, and they all need the services." Some of those services include help with job placement, veterans benefit assistance counseling, and a food pantry. "We've opened up, basically, a grocery store that the veteran can come in and get a month's supply of groceries," Graham said. "It's like a regular grocery cart that runs through a grocery store." For Graham, her time at the outreach center is personal. "When I come through the doors in the morning, it is just awesome and such a good feeling to be able to help our veterans that need assistance in anyway," Graham said. Since the Quad City Veterans Outreach Center is a non-governmental organization, it is not impacted by potential federal government cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs. "It's just been an awesome, awesome ride for those who utilize our services." Graham said. "(The veterans) come in, and they tell us this is their happy place, and you can see it as they begin to talk to one another." The Quad Cities Veterans Outreach Center's services are available only to registered veterans, not their spouses or other relatives.
	Davenport students celebrate stellar attendance records with first responders It's all part of the "Superhero Attendance Challenge," encouraging K-5 students to achieve perfect attendance for the entire month.
	Floatzilla 2025 adds new race, bigger festivities on the Mississippi Floatzilla returns Aug. 16 with a new Dam to Dam kayak race and expanded festivities, including races, contests, live music and more at Lake Potter.
	City of Moline decides to part ways with volunteer firefighter group The Moline Second Alarmers have served the community for over 70 years.
	Davenport Teen battling cancer receives "Man Cave" bedroom makeover Owen Dangelser from Davenport is a teen who likes to be active and ride his skateboard. He likes music and playing video games. When he was 12, he started to experience pain in his neck and arm. His mother took him to the emergency department where he was told he had a broken arm. After that he visited an orthopedic specialist who said that the arm was not broken. As his pain got worse Owen's mom took him to the ER even more times and he kept getting turned away. One morning Owen could no longer lift his arms. He was taken to the Stead Family Children's Hospital, Iowa City, to have an MRI. He then went in for emergency surgery and doctors found a cancerous tumor. He was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Doctors removed as much of the tumor as they could and started treating Owen with chemotherapy. Owen was sick at times but kept a positive attitude throughout his treatment and was ready to get back to normal. Eventually he was considered to be in remission. Because of his surgery, however, he was no longer able to play contact sports, which was harsh news. But he kept his positive attitude. Three years later, Owen began to lose weight and was pale and sick. A pediatrician diagnosed him with mononucleosis ("mono.") A month later Owen was still sick - he threw up every day. He went back to the pediatrician, and the doctor felt a supraclavicular lymph node. After an X-ray and blood work, Owen went back to an oncologist at the children's hospital. He then received a diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia, which was caused by one of Owen's chemotherapy medications. Since then, Owen has been an inpatient receiving blood products and more chemo. He recently turned 16 years old in the hospital and finally returned home for the first time in around three months on Tuesday. He came home to a surprise: Thanks to My Happy Place, a non-profit that creates spaces for people with serious health diagnosis, Owen has a brand-new room with all a teen could ask for. Owen Dangelser (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Owen told Our Quad Cities News that he is thankful for the new room and glad to be back home for a week before he has to go back to the hospital to resume treatment. His mom, Melissa Dangelser, says her son is the reason she stays strong. "I've been pretty emotional especially when he first got diagnosed and he's so strong and he doesn't allow me to be weak or sad," she said. "He says, 'Mom, you have to be tough.' He says, 'I'm gonna beat it'." Owen will eventually need a bone-marrow transplant. For now, he is focusing on feeling better in the moment. Over his week home he will enjoy his new room and the company of friends and family. To learn more about My Happy Place click here. Owen's profile on My Happy Place My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)My Happy Place Room Renovation (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com)
	Coroner shares why he led an inquest into Jackson Kradle's death Carroll County Coroner Matt Jones scheduled an inquest in January that lasted two days and ultimately ended in Kradle's death being ruled a homicide.
	Iowa bill to remove DEI programs in government moves forward A plan to remove diversity, equity and inclusion programs in Iowa government cleared the State Senate. Senators voted 34-15 in favor of Senate File 507. The move would prohibit cities and counties from establishing or maintaining a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) offices. The bill's sponsor, Sen. Cherielynn Westrich says the Republican Party's position is that DEI causes more discrimination. Democrats argue it should be up to local authorities to make these decisions. The bill now heads to the State House for debate. For more information, click here.
	New events added to Floatzilla Organizers are also adding what they call Floatzilla Palooza, which will include entertainment and other activities at Lake Potter.
	Floatzilla 2025 adds new race, bigger festivities on the Mississippi Floatzilla returns Aug. 16 with a new Dam to Dam kayak race and expanded festivities, including races, contests, live music and more at Lake Potter.
	Coroner's inquest helped lead to charges being filed in Jackson Kradle's death News 8 spoke with Carroll County Coroner Matt Jones for the first time since the inquest about the preparation and why he worked to hold one.
	Warmer Temperatures Then a Big Cool Down The start of the week was fairly mild with temperatures around the low to mid 50s during the afternoon. But heading towards the second half of the week and the weekend those temperatures are going to take quite the jump. Temperatures will gradually warm up reaching the 60s by Thursday and then jumping into the upper 70s by Friday. But those warm temperatures are not staying for long as after Friday they cool back down into the 50s by Sunday, and possibly into the 40s by next Tuesday.
	Iowa Senate passes local government DEI ban Republicans in the Iowa House already passed a ban on DEI in local government
	Previewing the Quad Cities River Bandits 2025 season General Manager Julia McNeil is preparing for her first season in the new role. She is just the third woman general manager in team history.
	What to know about Davenport's planned budget for fiscal year 2026 Davenport will hold a public hearing at 5 p.m. Wednesday for the public to comment on its fiscal 2026 proposed property tax levy. Another budget hearing is set for April 16.
	3rd female general manager in River Bandits history reflects on new role's significance Julia McNeil has been with the Bandits since 2018, working her way up through the organization. She was the team's assistant general manager over the last few years.
	Ottomwa man sentenced to over 10 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon A man from Ottumwa man was sentenced to 125 months (10.4 years) in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon, according to a news release from the Department of Justice. Nolan Rork (Wapello County Sheriff's Office) Public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing show that in early 2024, Nolan Ryan Rork, 19, was on probation with the State of Iowa. In April 2024, Rork removed his electronic ankle monitor. In June 2024, law enforcement found Rork and while fleeing from them, Rork threw his backpack, which had two loaded firearms and over 60 grams (over 2 ounces) of methamphetamine. Rork must serve a three-year term of supervised release after his prison term is complete. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement and the case was investigated by the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office and the Ottumwa Police Department.
	Bob Dylan, April 8 Appearing locally in his “Rough and Rowdy Ways” World Wide Tour, a genuine legend takes the stage at Davenport's Adler Theatre in its April 8 hosting of the one and only Bob Dylan, the iconic musician and Nobel Prize winner recently chronicled in the Oscar-nominated bio-musical smash A Complete Unknown.
	Quad City Symphony Orchestra Masterworks VI: “Rhapsody in Blue,” April 5 and 6 Hailed by the New York Times for her “impeccable phrase-shaping (and) crystalline sound,” noted pianist Lorraine Min will be the special guest in the Quad City Symphony Orchestra's sixth and final Masterworks presentations of the ensemble's 2024-25 season.
	Vote now for Coolest Thing Made in Illinois The field of contenders for the 2025 title of The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois has been narrowed further, with voters choosing the Top 8 products to move ahead in the sixth annual “Makers Madness” contest. “Makers Madness” is hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and is a bracket-style tournament where Illinois residents can decide which product is The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. The competition honors the work of manufacturers across Illinois, which supports almost a third of all jobs in Illinois and contributes over $580 billion to the state’s economy each year. Voters chose their favorites over the past week in eight head-to-head matchups between individual products, with nearly 100,000 votes cast in this round. The original field of over 250 nominees for The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois has now been whittled down to the Top 8. They are: Gindo’s Spice of Life made by Gindo’s in St. Charles; Aerial Firefighting Pump manufactured by MTH Pumps in Plano; Chef Heatly’s Hot Pepper Farm Salsa made by Chef Heatley in Sandwich; Joint Combined Aircrew Systems Tester manufactured by Chemring Energetic Devices in Downers Grove; Lagomarcino’s Chocolates made by Lagomarcino's Confectionary in Moline; Donor Milk made by Mother’s Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes in Elk Grove Village; Whiskey Acres Blue Popcorn Bourbon manufactured by Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. in DeKalb; ROV Skimmer – Remote Operated Oil Skimmer manufactured by Elastec in Carmi. “Makers Madness is a celebration of the incredible products made right here in Illinois, highlighting the unparalleled level of creativity and innovation that distinguishes our state’s manufacturing industry,” saidMark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “We wish all of the contestants the best of luck as the search continues for the product that will earn the 2025 title of the Coolest Thing Made in Illinois.” The brackets for the Makers Madness Top 8 are: Bracket A: (1) Gindo’s Spice of Life (Gindo’s, St. Charles) v. (3) Aerial Firefighting Pump (MTH Pumps, Plano) Bracket B: (1) Chef Heatly’s Hot Pepper Farm Salsa (Chef Heatley, Sandwich) v. (3) Joint Combined Aircrew Systems Tester (Chemring Energetic Devices, Downers Grove) Bracket C: (4) Lagomarcino’s Chocolates (Lagomarcino’s Confectionary, Moline) v. (3) Donor Milk (Mother’s Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes, Elk Grove Village) Bracket D: (1) Whiskey Acres Blue Popcorn Bourbon (Whiskey Acres Distilling Co., DeKalb) v. (3) ROV Skimmer – Remote Operated Oil Skimmer (Elastec, Carmi) Voting for this round is now open; click here to vote through 11:59 p.m. on March 30. Voters may cast one vote each day in each of the four head-to-head matchups between products. Consecutive rounds of voting will happen every week, with vote totals reset to zero at the beginning of each round. The contest will end with an awards ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion on April 9 when The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois will be named. “It has been amazing to see our state come together to celebrate the variety of products that are made here in Illinois,” said Sean McCarthy, Comcast’s Regional Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Initiatives. “Congratulations to our eight remaining products and we wish you the best of luck in the final rounds of this competition.” The Komatsu mining truck, a rugged, large capacity vehicle used for construction and mining made by Komatsu in Peoria was last year’s winner. Previous winners include the Rosenberg Moon Habitat, a 3D printed polymer structure designed to house humans on the moon manufactured by Ingersoll Machine Tools in Rockford; Rivian’s all-electric R1T truck made in Normal, the first all-electric truck in production featuring four motors, with one powering each wheel; the Self-Regulating Traffic Signal Heater by Termico Technologies in Elk Grove Village, which uses conductive particles to heat traffic signals so they remain free of ice and snow and traffic can safely navigate our roadways; and the 797F Mining Truck, build in Decatur by Caterpillar, Inc., the world’s largest mechanical truck. Click here for more on the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.
	Second Alarmers will no longer operate from Moline Both the nonprofit, which helps firefighters at structure fires, and the city said it was not the end for the organization.
	Second Alarmers will no longer operate from Moline Both the nonprofit, which helps firefighters at structure fires, and the city said it was not the end for the organization.
	“MJ Live: Michael Jackson Tribute Concert,” April 7 An exhilarating concert event powered by Las Vegas Walk of Fame recipient Jalles Franca, the touring sensation MJ Live: Michael Jackson Tribute Concert moon-walks its way to Davenport's Adler Theatre on April 7, taking audiences on an unforgettable journey through the timeless music and legendary performances of one of music history's most successful artists.
	Midland, April 5 Touring in support of their September release Barely Blue, an album that Rolling Stone said "evokes images and sentiments of wonderment and playfulness," the country artists of Midland headline an April 5 concert at Davenport's Rhythm City Casino Resort Event Center, Rolling Stone adding that "the Texas-based band blend their voices to produce country music that recalls a mix of George Strait, Urban Cowboy, and Seventies yacht rock."
	Black Violin, April 4 With their concert events praised by Austin 101 Magazine as "a sonic and visual feast," the Florida-based duo of Black Violin -- with Kev Marcus plays the violin, and Wil B. on viola -- performs an April 4 headlining engagement at Davenport's Capitol Theatre, the pair lauded for their unique melding of jazz, hip-hop, funk, and classical music.
	Alex Gilson: “Making Strides,” April 5 On April 5, music lovers are invited to experience the thrilling energy of stride jazz piano with virtuoso Alex Gilson in his solo showcase Making Strides, an event in the Sound Conservatory's Carnegie series showcasing the thrilling joys of swing, syncopation, and masterful improvisation.
	Ben Sollee, April 4 Touring in support of his 2024 release Long Haul, which No Depression lauded as "the most positively alive and vivacious album of [the artist's] recording career," acclaimed cellist, singer/songwriter, and composer Ben Sollee performs a special headlining engagement at Davenport's Raccoon Motel on April 4, his music blending folk, bluegrass, jazz, and R&B elements while employing banjo, guitar, mandolin, percussion, and unusual cello techniques.
	Mark Tester, Landon Caldwell, and Nick Yeck-Stauffer, April 4 Presented by OUTLETProgramme, a nonprofit (501c3) arts and culture community-interest project that focuses on presenting sound artists, DJs, experimental, avant-garde, electronic, and international artist, the April 4 concert event at Rock Island's Rozz-Tox will boast the varies talents of three independent favorites: Indiana natives Mark Tester and Landon Caldwell, and the Illinois-bred Nick Yeck-Stauffer.
	Noeline Hofmann, April 10 Hailing by the Tongue on the Post Festival as "a peach with pistol attitude," 20-year-old country singer/songwriter Noeline Hofmann headlines an April 10 engagement at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, the young artist's laurels to date including scoring a feature on Zach Bryan’s The Great American Bar Scene and more than 37 million streams on Spotify.
	Skerryvore, April 9 Chart-topping Scottish musicians whom Broadway Baby praised for producing “music that upholds heritage while still sounding unmistakably current,” the Celtic rockers of Skerryvore headline an April 9 concert event at Galesburg's Orpheum Theatre, their performance delivering an eclectic fusion of rock, pop, and folk music with an emphatic thundering of drums and bagpipes.
	“The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci,” April 5 An exciting and unique work for chorus and orchestra with texts written by the titular master and accompanying screen projections, Jocelyn Hagen’s The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci enjoys an April 5 performance at Galesburg's Orpheum Theatre, the event promising an immersive and powerful experience drawn from de Vinci's stunning sketches.
	David Briggs, April 6 An internationally renowned organist whose performances are acclaimed for their musicality, virtuosity, and ability to excite and engage audiences of all ages, David Briggs performs in the University of Dubuque's John & Alice Butler Pipe Organ Recital Series, his April 6 program proving why he is considered among the foremost organ transcribers of symphonic works, giving listeners the opportunity to experience the organ in a new way.
	Quad City Music Guild's “Escape to Margaritaville,” April 4 through 13 With its delightful assemblage of songs including “Fins,” “Volcano,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and the iconic "Margaritaville," the Jimmy Buffett celebration Escape to Margaritaville enjoys an April 4 through 13 run at Moline's Prospect Park Auditorium, Quad City Music Guild's 2025 season-opener lauded by the Hollywood Reporter as "the theatrical equivalent of sipping on a frozen drink while lying on a beach chair in the blazing sun."
	Clinton abuse case: How could it happen? It’s a case police call one of the most depraved they’ve ever seen
	“Exit, Pursued by a Bear,” April 10 through 13 Lauded by American Theatre Magazine as "raw and hilarious," the wickedly funny revenge comedy Exit, Pursued by a Bear enjoys an April 10 through 13 run at Augustana College's Honkamp Myhre Black Box Theatre, its playwright Lauren Gunderson also famed for multiple shows that have recently played on Quad Cities stages, among them Silent Sky, The Revolutionists, and Natural Shocks.
	“Cara & Diego Romero: Tales of Future Past” Program, April 10 Held in conjunction with the current exhibit showcasing 18 thought-provoking pottery pieces and lithographs, 20 evocative photographs, and a new collaborative piece created exclusively for this exhibition, a special presentation celebrating Cara & Diego Romero: Tales of Futures Past will take place at Davenport's Figge Art Museum on April 10, the evening's program based on themes found throughout the married artists' works.
	Virtual Illinois Libraries Present: “The Act of Foraging with Alexis Nikole Nelson,” April 10 A wildly popular presence on TikTok and Instagram, and the 2022 winner of the inaugural James Beard Award for Best Social Media Account. Alexis Nikole Nelson serves as the latest virtual guest in the Illinois Libraries Present series, her April 10 program The Act of Foraging, co-presented by the Rock Island and Silvis Public Libraries, designed to celebrate all the edible plants hiding in plain sight.
	Non-profit transforms bedroom of Davenport 16-year-old battling Leukemia My Happy Place transforms spaces for those with a serious health diagnosis.
	“Priscilla Steele: Fresh Steele,” April 4 through May 31 Delivering intimate explorations of the human condition through drawing and printmaking, the exhibition Fresh Steele, by area talent Priscilla Steele, enjoys a showcase at Dubuque's Voices Studios April 4 through May 31, with the artist present for an opening celebration on April 4.
	“Fatherless Print Posse: Delusion of Choice,” April 4 through May 31 Offering a bold, provocative critique of societal structures through collaborative, resistance-driven prints, the exhibition Delusion of Choice, by the art collective Fatherless Print Posse, enjoys a showcase at Dubuque's Voices Studios April 4 through May 31, with the artists present for an opening celebration on April 4.
	1 person dead following single-vehicle crash in Scott County A 71-year-old Muscatine man died in a single-vehicle crash Monday night near Blue Grass. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
	Early voting underway for April 1 election in Illinois Due to lower turnouts in consolidated elections, only one early voting location is open in Rock Island County.
	Clinton Police Department Junior Academy teaches kids about police work Students in Clinton will get up close to the work of law enforcement at the Clinton Police Department Junior Academy. Cpl. Shane Haskell with the Clinton Police Department spoke with Our Quad Cities News via Zoom to talk about the academy. Haskell says while this program is brand new, the department has held similar events in the past. “We did have something similar, a one-day camp that we allowed kids to do in the summer. The officers came in and showed a couple of things that they do, like criminal investigations and police duties, and that was a hit. I hang out with these kids at the middle school all the time and they're always asking me questions about police officers and what I do. I just thought this would be a great opportunity for them to get a chance to do that.” “We'll have 10 weeks for the class and on each of those days, they'll do something different that officers do. For example, one day we'll be doing traffic stops. We have some teachers who are going to volunteer for that, which would be a pretty cool experience for them, to be able to pull over their teachers." "We're going to do traffic stops one day, where they would be practicing what to say on traffic stops and what to look for. We'll have patrol officers helping out with that. We'll have other days where we're going to do handcuffing techniques. We'll have criminal investigations for a couple of days where they'll come in and we'll do a mock crime scene. The kids will help us process it and try to figure out who the suspect is. We'll also have an opportunity for a K9 officer to come in and present with the K9 dog, and also our drone unit, so they'll be able to see how the drone gets used. There's going to be a lot of opportunity for them to get a variety of different things from the police department.” Academy sessions will be once a week on Wednesdays, from 1:45 – 3:30 p.m. for 10 weeks. “Every Wednesday, middle school gets early dismissal, and the kids will hang out with us for an hour and a half,” Haskell said. “Every Wednesday, they'll get a different police class.” Students will take field trips to the Clinton County Courthouse during the program to participate in a mock trial and to the Clinton County Jail and dispatch center. The registration deadline has already passed, and the first session begins on March 26. Haskell hopes the students have a positive impression of the program. “The cool thing is, if it works out well, which I think it will, this will be something we'll do every year. It'll be something that every seventh-grade class, as they come in, can experience.” He says the program may lead to kids considering law enforcement as a career, but it’s benefits officers too. “I think this is just a good opportunity for police officers to connect with the kids and not only have them learn from us, but us learn from them, and also give them an opportunity just to connect with us and just get an idea of what we do.” “I just think it's an awesome opportunity,” he said. “I've had kids almost every day check on the status, did you get my application? We have 19 applicants, and we accepted every application.” Haskell says his coworkers are excited about the new academy. “I don't know who's more excited about it, the kids or the officers. We have four instructors, including myself, and we always look forward to this. I think that's probably our favorite thing to do, is to give back to the youth. There's really no better investment.”
	Future uncertain for Moline volunteer fire service The City of Moline said the Second Alarmers can no longer use city-owned facilities and vehicles, citing a review of liability and insurance protocols.
	Lagomarcino's advances in annual March Madness-style competition highlighting Illinois products Voting for the Elite Eight round runs until midnight on Sunday, March 30.
	Resignations, hirings and other Moline School District personnel news from March 10 See personnel items from the March 10 agenda of the Moline-Coal Valley School District. The board met at Black Box at the Bartlett Performing Arts Center, Moline High School.
	QC non-profit transforms bedroom of 16-year-old battling Leukemia My Happy Place transforms spaces for those with a serious health diagnosis.
	'Mad House' exposes Congressional disfunction, from petty feuds to physical threats The MAGA-controlled 118th House passed only 27 bills that became law — the lowest number since the Great Depression. Journalists Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater examine the chaos in a new book.
	'Mad House' exposes Congressional dysfunction, from petty feuds to physical threats The MAGA-controlled 118th House passed only 27 bills that became law — the lowest number since the Great Depression. Journalists Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater examine the chaos in a new book.
	Job seekers can meet employers at Black Hawk College Career Fair Job hunters can meet with dozens of employers at a career fair at Black Hawk College. The 2025 Career Fair will be on Wednesday, March 26 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Black Hawk College, 6600 34th Avenue in Moline. The fair will be in the gym in Building 3. Participants can park in Lot 3 off 34th Avenue. Job hunters should dress professionally and bring résumés. The Career Fair is free and open to the public. Call BHC Career Services at 309-796-5626 for more information and click here for a list of participating employers.
	Bonnie Raitt plays Adler Theatre in September Bonnie Raitt is in her fourth year on tour and is playing Davenport’s Adler Theatre on Wednesday, September 10th. Her current tour has taken her across the U.S. and Canada, stopping overseas in Australia, England, Ireland, Scotland and Europe since the release of her critically acclaimed, three-time Grammy Award-winning studio album, “Just Like That… “in 2022. Bonnie Raitt (Adler Theatre) Tickets for the show can be purchased in person at the Adler Box Office, 136 E. Third Street in Davenport or online here or here. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets will go on venue presale on Thursday, March 27th at 10 a.m. and general sales start on Friday, March 28th at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. "I'm looking forward to having my longtime pal and one of my favorite artists, blues legend Jimmie Vaughan & The Tilt-A-Whirl Band be our special guests for the late Summer tour,” said Raitt. “We’ve shared many gigs and duets over the years but never as a 'double trouble' co-bill. Bound to be some good blues rockin’ going on - can’t wait to hit the road together!” "Thrilled to play some shows with my talented friend Bonnie Raitt and her band,” Vaughan said. “It’s been a long time coming! Myself and The Tilt-A[1]Whirl Band are excited to be part of this great tour.” Raitt earned her 31st Grammy nomination in December, in the Best American Roots Performance category, for her contribution to the track "Nothing In Rambling," a cover of Memphis Minnie’s song featuring Fabulous Thunderbirds founding member Kim Wilson, Raitt, Keb' Mo', Taj Mahal and Mick Fleetwood. The track is on the Fabulous Thunderbirds’ latest album, “Struck Down,” which was also nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album. Click here for more on Bonnie Raitt.
	Augustana College is surveying women in Quad Cities about maternal healthcare The Augustana College Center for the Advancement of Community Health and Wellness is conducting a research project concerning maternal health experiences and outcomes women have experienced in the Quad Cities area.
	Hamdan Ballal, a Palestinian director beaten by Israeli settlers, is now released Hamdan Ballal, who won an Oscar for No Other Land about Palestinians under Israeli occupation, was attacked by Israeli settlers and later detained by the Israeli military, witnesses tell NPR.
	Hamdan Ballal, a Palestinian director beaten by Israeli settlers, is now released Hamdan Ballal, who won an Oscar for No Other Land about Palestinians under Israeli occupation, was attacked by Israeli settlers and later detained by the Israeli military, witnesses tell NPR.
	‘Does not mark the end’: City of Moline announces changes to Moline Second Alarmers protocol The City of Moline says it has changed operations with Moline Second Alarmers, a volunteer support group for firefighters on emergency response calls, based on new liability and insurance protocols.
	Mobile Vaccine Clinic coming to Zion Lutheran Church, Davenport The Quad City Animal Welfare Center will be having its first Mobile Vaccine Clinic of the year at Zion Lutheran Church (1216 W. 8th Street, Davenport) on Friday April 4. The clinic will be at the church the first Friday of every month (except for July which will be on Thursday) from April through September at 2pm to 4pm. If your pet has been spayed or neutered, you will receive a half price discount. If your pet is not spayed or neutered half of the price can be applied as a credit toward spaying or neutering your pet. Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be on a leash. There will be carriers available for purchase for $5. Flea, tick, and heartworm preventive products can also be purchased at the mobile clinic along with the vaccines. For a list of prices and services available click here. For more information about the Quad City Animal Welfare Center click here.
	Muscatine man dies after crash near Blue Grass A Muscatine man was pronounced dead Monday night after a single-vehicle crash north of Blue Grass.
	Moline shutters Second Alarmers program after 70+ years The Moline Second Alarmers Association is considering its next steps after Moline decided the group can’t use city facilities and vehicles. A post on the group’s Facebook page says, “Moline Fire Chief Steven Regenwether shut down the Moline Second Alarmers today. Citing that our services were no longer needed by the city of Moline. The Second Alarmers were started 1952. We have proudly served the Moline Fire Department for 73 years. We have also been in a mutual aid agreements with all other local departments. Most recently serving the MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System) Units 39 & 43 which includes Rock Island, Henry , Mercer Counties as well as the Rock Island Arsenal Fire Department & the Quad City International Airport. There have been numerous people come through our organization and possibly someone you know. We had men that joined the fire department when they got hired and some that came back to us after they retired. It was a great fire service organization to belong to and all of the Second Alarmers enjoyed working beside all of our brothers & sisters in the local area fire departments. Gone for now, but the legacy will return!” Moline Second Alarmers (moline2ndalarmers.org) The City of Moline released a statement about the Second Alarmers on its Facebook page and via email. It reads, “The City of Moline would like to publicly thank and recognize the Second Alarmers for more than 70 years of dedicated volunteer service to the Moline Fire Department and the Quad Cities community. Their commitment to firefighter support and scene rehabilitation has been deeply appreciated by both Moline residents and first responders.” “As part of a recent review of liability and insurance protocols, the City has determined that, moving forward, the Second Alarmers will no longer be permitted to operate out of City-owned facilities or vehicles. The Second Alarmers are a fully independent 501(c)(3) volunteer organization. Their current use of a City-owned firehouse and a City-owned vehicle is 100% funded by Moline taxpayers. After careful consideration, it was decided that it would not be appropriate for Moline residents to bear the liability or costs for an organization whose mission has grown to a service area that extends well beyond City limits, including surrounding municipalities in Rock Island, Mercer and Henry Counties.” “As a result of this decision, the Second Alarmers will no longer be responding to Moline structure fires. However, this does not mark the end of the organization. The Fire Chief has worked closely with the Second Alarmers to assist with a potential relocation. Discussions and planning are currently underway with the Village of Coal Valley to explore a new operational base for the group. We emphasize that the Second Alarmers are not being shut down. They remain an independent organization and are encouraged to continue their mission of supporting local fire departments throughout the region. We sincerely thank them for their decades of volunteerism and dedication to firefighter safety.”
	Bettendorf briefly closing State Street Late-night drivers in Bettendorf will need to avoid State Street for a short time tomorrow. Starting at midnight on Wednesday, March 26, State Street will briefly close just east of Devils Glen Road so MidAmerican Energy crews can complete a project. To ensure the safety of the traveling public and the workers onsite, State Street will be completely shut down at 4077 State Street to ensure the safety of drivers and crews. The closure is expected to last about 20-40 minutes and drivers should find an alternate route.
	1 person dead following single-vehicle crash in Scott County A 71-year-old Muscatine man died in a single-vehicle crash Monday night near Blue Grass. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
	Dubuque Co. requests jury trial in Dyersville lawsuit over missing half a million dollars Dubuque County has requested a jury trial in a Dyersville lawsuit over missing funds.
	Caitlin Clark to be on episode of David Letterman’s Netflix show Letterman’s show is called “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction.”
	Iowa Severe Weather Preparedness Week underway Severe Weather Awareness Week in Iowa will be observed March 24 to 28 by highlighting a different dangerous weather subject daily.
	Muscatine man dead after crash north of Blue Grass The vehicle became airborne, hit a utility pole and came to rest on the driver side. Officials said the man died from his injuries.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for March 25, 2025 Construction work begins along Brady Street in Davenport, and Rock Island is donating some property to convert into veteran housing.
	Muscatine man dead in Scott County crash A 71-year-old man from Muscatine is dead after a single-vehicle crash in rural Scott County last night, according to a news release from the Scott County Sheriff’s Department. The Scott Emergency Communication Center received a call of a single motor vehicle accident at the intersection of 165th Street and 70th Avenue north of Blue Grass on March 24 at about 9:32 p.m. The Scott County Sheriff’s Office responded and an initial investigation showed that a 2018 Nissan Rogue was traveling south on 70th Avenue approaching the intersection of 165th Street. The driver of the Rogue, identified as a 71-year-old man from Muscatine, apparently left the roadway, crossed the center line and went over into the east ditch. The vehicle went airborne, struck a utility pole and landed on the driver's side. The driver was wearing his seatbelt but died from his injuries. The accident is under investigation by the Scott County Sheriff’s Accident Investigation Unit. The driver’s name is not being released, pending notification of family. The Scott Emergency Communications Center, Blue Grass Fire Department, Blue Grass Police Department, Walcott Police Department Scott County Medic EMS and MedForce assisted at the scene.
	Muscatine County will participate in statewide tornado drill The Muscatine County Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) will participate in the Statewide Tornado Drill to be held in conjunction with Severe Weather Awareness Week, according to a news release. The drill will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 26, when the sirens will be activated in conjunction with the drill. (Getty Images) For more information on severe weather awareness and safety tips, visit the National Weather Service Site here. “The Statewide Drill gives businesses, schools, daycares and other facilities the chance to practice their severe weather procedures as we move into storm season,” said Chris Jasper, director of Emergency Management/911 for Muscatine County. “I encourage all facilities in the county to participate in the drill. I cannot stress enough the importance of having a plan and being able to execute it during severe weather or any disaster.” Any business or family that needs assistance to make a preparedness plan can call the Muscatine County Emergency Management office at 563-264-7142. Or they can email ema@muscatinecountyiowa.gov to set up a time. Find more information on plans and preparedness here. MUSCOM, in conjunction with Emergency Management, will start the yearly testing of the Outdoor Sirens on Monday, April 7. The sirens are tested on the first Monday of every month at 11 a.m. during non-freezing months. However, if there is severe weather forecast for a testing day, the sirens will not be tested. As a reminder to all residents, during a severe weather event, the sirens are activated by MUSCOM when one of the following criteria is met: Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service; Tornado or funnel cloud reported by a trained weather spotter; or Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued by the National Weather Service or a report from a trained weather spotter that includes: Wind 70 mph or greater and/or Golf-ball-sized hail or larger. According to information from the National Weather Service (NWS) most fatalities during tornadoes or severe thunderstorms occur because of falling trees or large branches. The typical threshold at which large branches and small trees break is wind speeds of 70 mph. Hail also begins to break windows when it reaches or exceeds golf-ball-sized hail. “Muscatine County follows the guidelines that are set out by the National Weather Service,” Jasper said. “Due to the possibility of extreme danger from falling trees and branches we will continue to activate the siren system for Severe Thunderstorm Warnings that meet that threshold.” Sirens are designed to alert residents who are outdoors of an imminent hazard and prompt them to go indoors and seek further information. “We encourage the public to tune into local media outlets or listen to a weather radio during severe weather and ask that they limit the use of 911 to emergencies only,” Jasper said. The sirens are a countywide system so if a warning is issued for any part of the county, the sirens for the entire county are activated. “It may be sunny in Montpelier but if there is a severe weather warning in West Liberty, the sirens will go off in Montpelier” Jasper said. Jasper also reminds the public that there is no “all clear.” The threat is over when the warning has been allowed to expire. Anyone who believes a siren is not working or is malfunctioning can reach out to the Office of Emergency Management at 563-264-7142 or email ema@muscatinecountyiowa.gov.
	Davenport man arrested after depositing fraudulent Treasury check A man from Davenport is in the Scott County Jail after police say he deposited a counterfeit Treasury check into his personal account. Mark Nissen (Scott County Jail) The criminal complaint says that on June 21st, 2024 the defendant, identified as Mark Nissen, 60, intentionally deposited a counterfeit United States Treasury check in his name at the Ascentra Credit Union on W. 53rd Street in Davenport. Nissen allegedly deposited the check totaling $51,115.55 into a checking account in his name and was seen on surveillance video depositing the check in the drive-thru teller lane. He was the passenger of the vehicle driven by the co-defendant. Later that same day, Nissen and the co-defendant returned to the bank and withdrew $9,000 cash at the drive-thru teller together. The co-defendant gave Nissen a cashier's check on May 28th, 2024 totaling $4,100. They appeared to have planned to deposit the counterfeit Treasury check, then systematically withdraw the funds together. On June 21 - 22nd, 2024, Nissen allegedly withdrew $49,700 in cash in seven transactions at different branch locations. He also made several purchases, getting the balance of his account down to $16.62. The check was returned as altered/fictitious from the Treasury Department on November 8th, 2024. He is accused of intentionally depositing the counterfeit Treasury check into his checking account, withdrawing cash and making purchases knowing the deposit was fraudulent. This caused a loss to Ascentra Credit Union of about $51,082. Nissen was identified by his Iowa Driver's license compared to the surveillance video. Court records show that a warrant for Nissen’s arrest was issued on March 20, 2025 and he was taken into custody on March 24 on charges of felony conspiracy, felony forgery and felony first-degree theft. He is being held in the Scott County Jail on a cash-only bond of $10,000 and is awaiting an initial court appearance.
	Quad City Animal Welfare Center mobile vaccine clinic Cats must be in carriers and dogs must be on leashes, organizers said.
	Watch: Intelligence leaders testify before Congress, fresh off the group chat fiasco Some of the nation's top intelligence officials will appear before Congress in a pair of hearings this week. Two were participants in a widely criticized war plans group chat on Signal.
	Intelligence leaders: We didn't share classified information in Signal chat group Some of the nation's top intelligence officials will appear before Congress in a pair of hearings this week. Two were participants in a widely criticized war plans group chat on Signal.
	Girl Scouts programming receives $50,000 in Scott County Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois received a $50,000 gift from the Bechtel Charitable trust fund. The funding will help girl scout programming in Scott County. The programming centers around teaching kids STEM, life skills, leadership skills and entrepreneurship. Girl Scouts at Madison Elementary School in Davenport, Iowa. Pictured from left to right: Daria Beason, Jeranie Shorter, Miley Angel, and Kaizlee Leab. The Trust has been a supporter of Girl Scouts since 2005. CEO of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois Diane Nelson said, "Their support keeps our programming strong and helps us to shape the next generation of leaders." To find more information about the Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois click here.
	INTERVIEW: Coffee with a Cop Davenport Police want to get to know you better -- and work together to make the city safer. Sergeant Andrew Harris joined Our Quad Cities News This Morning to tell us all about next week's Coffee with a Cop. Watch the video above and click here for more information.
	Rock Island County holds in-person voting center for Illinois primaries So far officials in Rock Island County have received over 1,500 ballots in the mail for this year's primary election.
	Trump's back-to-office order will hurt veterans, VA docs and therapists say The Department of Veterans Affairs embraced telehealth, especially for mental health care, in recent years. Now, staffers hired to give therapy and other health care remotely are ordered to do it from offices lacking privacy, VA clinicians told NPR.
	It Takes a Village gets grant for van It Takes A Village Animal Shelter has been awarded an $80,000 grant from the Stanton Foundation for Life for the purchase of a van.
	Muscatine County Supervisors hold public hearing on budget increase On Monday, 14 people attended a public hearing regarding the Muscatine County budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, with seven speaking against the 4.2% increase in taxes for the coming year.
	Severe Weather Awareness Week starts The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the National Weather Service have joined together to promote Severe Weather Awareness Week, which runs through March 28.
	Muscatine man faces drug charges A Muscatine man remains in the Muscatine County Jail under $30,000 bond with a preliminary hearing set for April 2 after being arrested with drugs early Sunday.
	Rock Island creating more housing for veterans The development near 11th Street and 13th Avenue will offer housing to 25 veteran families.
	Expect Lane closures in Park View, Eldridge throughout 2025 Some roads will be down to one lane due to construction in Park View in Eldridge. The roads affected will be South Park View Drive, Crest View Drive, Park Lane Circle, and Cherokee Drive. The roads will remain open to local traffic and lane closures and delays in the work zone are to be expected. Closure dates will be throughout the 2025 construction season.
	Expect lane closures in Mount Joy Industrial area, Davenport throughout 2025 Some roads in the Mt. Joy industrial area in Davenport will having lane closures. They are North Brady Street, 214th Street, 215th Street, Holden Drive, and 210th Street. The roads will remain open to local traffic and lane closures and delays in the work zone are to be expected. Closure dates will be throughout the 2025 construction season.

Tuesday, March 25th, 2025