Thursday, October 16th, 2025 | |
![]() | ![]() Iowa's 100th year of pheasant hunting opens next weekendPheasant populations in the state are at a 20-year high. |
![]() | ![]() Nahant Marsh Education Center turns 25Over the years, the center has helped restore hundreds of acres of prairie, wetland and woodland habitat. |
![]() | ![]() Centre station reopens in Moline with major upgrades, mural and metro caféMoline's downtown transit hub now features ADA-accessible restrooms, updated HVAC and a vibrant mural, enhancing rider experience across the Quad Cities. |
![]() | ![]() Pedestrian struck and killed on I-80 near Geneseo, police sayA pedestrian was struck and killed early Thursday on I-80 near Geneseo. ISP is searching for the vehicle that left the scene of the accident. |
![]() | ![]() Man killed in Whiteside County ATV crashThe Whiteside County Sheriff's Office said 63-year-old Larry D. Hill was traveling westbound on Mellotts Road when he hit a deer, causing him to crash into a tree. |
![]() | ![]() Penn State at Iowa - chance for t'storms during the game in Iowa CityThere's a chance for showers and storms this weekend, and unfortunately the storms could affect the Penn St at Iowa game Saturday evening. It's a 30-50% chance for t'showers during the course of the game on Saturday. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Man died after hitting deer on ATVA man died after hitting a deer while driving an ATV Thursday morning, the Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office said. |
![]() | ![]() Bettendorf Middle School adding new brain health retreat roomThe district's high school and Edison Alternative School already have similar rooms, but Bettendorf Middle School will be the first middle school in Iowa to get one. |
![]() | ![]() John Deere employees box up food for Riverbend Food BankOver the past month, more than 3,300 Deere employees took part in similar packing events. |
![]() | ![]() Police: Body found on I-80 possible hit-and-runThe person was pronounced dead as the scene, officials said. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Moline police for failure to appearMaurice Jackson Jr., 36, is wanted by Moline police on a warrant for failure to appear in court on charges of felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm and armed habitual criminal. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Crime Stoppers: Woman steals wallet left in checkout linePolice are looking for a woman they say stole a wallet forgotten by a man in front of her in a checkout line. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Crime Stoppers: Man wanted by Iowa Department of Corrections High Risk UnitDeandre Hendricks, 34, is wanted by the Iowa Department of Corrections District 7 High Risk Unit for escape on weapons charges. |
![]() | ![]() Entirety of Milan under boil order until further noticeThe order was issued after a water main break near the water tower at Camden Park. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Scott County man accused of sexually abusing childHe is also charged with violating Iowa's sex offender registry laws. |
![]() | ![]() Carol Stream man arrested in scam investigationShrey Patel was charged with theft by deception after Kewanee Police allege he allegedly participated in an a scam targeting an elderly Kewanee resident. |
![]() | ![]() 6 people hospitalized after Mercer County crash, sheriff saysSix people were taken to area hospitals after a two-vehicle crash Wednesday night on U.S. Highway 67 near Alexis, according to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() MetroLINK's Centre Station in Moline reopens after months of renovationsMetroLINK’s Centre Station in downtown Moline is open again after months of renovation. The $2.5 million project, funded through the state’s Rebuild Illinois program, includes a redesigned lobby, new HVAC system, updated restrooms, and a Metro Shop cafe. |
![]() | ![]() Woman arrested after man found with stab wounds, police sayA Fort Madison woman has been arrested after police say she was involved in an assault reported Oct. 6. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Hammond-Henry Colona Clinic doctor discusses rural healthcareDr. David Cook participated in the Rural Student Physicians Program during his medical training. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Woman arrested, charged in assault investigationA Fort Madison woman has been arrested after police say she was involved in an assault reported Oct. 6. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() 500 John Deere employees pack food boxes for River Bend Food BankThe events created 5,350 packed boxes of food to feed people in River Bend Food Bank’s 23-county service area. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Augustana College's Upper Mississippi Center seeking community organization or municipality for its next partnershipAugustana College’s Upper Mississippi Center in Rock Island is accepting proposals for a new community partner. Director of the Upper Mississippi Center, Dr. Michael Reisner, spoke with WVIK News about the center’s goals, past partnerships, and the educational benefits to Augustana College students. |
![]() | ![]() Traffic backed up on I-280Traffic appears to be backed up on Interstate 280 Thursday afternoon. |
![]() | ![]() John Morrow, Quad Cities martial arts instructor and fundraiser, dies at 73John Morrow, a Quad Cities martial artist and fundraiser, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, at his Bettendorf home. He taught thousands and championed local charities. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() MercyOne Genesis doctor talks flu vaccinationsFlu season is approaching fast and while this year's flu vaccine has been available since September, some are hesitant on getting the shot. Dr. Michael Persson, a MercyOne Genesis family practice physician, spoke with Our Quad Cities News about why the vaccine is important and how to talk with a doctor about one. Watch the video above for more on this year's flu vaccine. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Quad Cities martial artist, philanthropist dies at 73John Morrow, a Quad Cities martial artist who raised thousands of dollars for local children’s charities, died at age 73. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Des Moines Police seeking victims after arresting man they say put a camera in a toiletPolice in Des Moines are searching for victims after police arrested a man accused of hiding a camera in a port-a-potty. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() 'Let's Go Crazy' at The Purple Experience in DavenportPrince fans are digging out the "Raspberry Beret" and firing up the "Little Red Corvette" to hear Marshall Charloff and The Purple Expeience at the Adler Theatre, 136 E. Third Street in Davenport. The show is on Friday, October 17; doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are still available here. Watch the video above to hear Marshall Charloff talk about working with Prince and his Vegas residence. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() 6 injured in Mercer County crashSix people were injured in a two-vehicle crash in Mercer County Wednesday, deputies say. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() MetroLINK reopens Moline’s Centre Station after $2.5 million renovationThe upgrades include a new cafe, redesigned lobby, improved accessibility, new HVAC systems, and a more energy-efficient entrance vestibule. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Man facing charges in 3 separate sex abuse casesA Davenport man is facing sex abuse charges in three separate cases. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Des Moines Public School Board Chair no longer running for US SenateThe Des Moines Public School Board chair Jackie Norris announced Thursday morning she will no longer be running for U.S. Senate. |
![]() | ![]() Pedestrian killed on Interstate 80 near Geneseo early ThursdayThe pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() John Morrow dies at age 73A well-known martial artist who taught in the Quad Cities for decades has died. John Morrow, a well-known martial artist who raised thousands of dollars for local children's charities, died peacefully at age 73 on Wednesday, October 15 with his family by his side, according to a news release from the family. Morrow set a Guinness World Record for push-ups and was a tournament champion who taught martial arts to thousands of people in the Quad Cities. He died on the 47th anniversary of opening his school, Morrow's Academy of Martial Arts. Morrow's Academy of Martial Arts has been located in downtown Moline for the past several decades. Morrow was known for his annual Fitness Challenge. Every year on his birthday, he did 1,000 push-ups, 1,000 sit-ups and 1,000 leg lifts in one hour to raise money for local children's charities. He was known as a martial artist who ran his classes with dedication and a sense of humor. Morrow was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 2024. Six months ago, he did his annual birthday Fitness Challenge. |
![]() | ![]() Iowa GOP Chair Jeff Kaufmann to lead RNC Presidential Nominating Process Committee“I’m honored that President Trump and Chairman Gruters have asked me to lead this critical committee," Kaufmann said in a release. |
![]() | ![]() YWCA Quad Cities to open youth homeless group homeThe non-profit is turning it’s former Rock Island location into the Quad Cities only youth homeless group home called Alan’s House. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Milan Water System customers under boil order, village saysCustomers must boil all water used for drinking, cooking or food preparation for at least five minutes before use, the village said. |
![]() | ![]() A Warm first half of October. And still looking to continue next week.As we are now more or less halfway through the month of October it is no doubt that it has been a warm start to the month. Only one of the past 15 recorded highs from this month so far have been below average high temperatures. And as we look to finish off the work week and head into next week, we still have some warmer weather on the way. There are a couple of days in the next 7 days that are looking cooler but still are seeing a few 70s ahead. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Filmmakers create award-winners in 48 hours, earn recognition at Putnam MuseumThis past weekend the Putnam Museum and Science Center hosted its second annual 48 Hour Film Challenge. The challenge invites filmmakers of all experience levels to create an original short film in just 48 hours based on a randomly selected theme. (The Putnam Museum) Once completed, the films are showcased on the GIANT Screen and evaluated by both a panel of judges and the audience. It’s a fast-paced, high-energy event that celebrates creativity, teamwork, and storytelling under pressure. Each year brings a new theme and fresh surprises, ensuring no two challenges are ever the same. On Friday, October 10, at 4 p.m., participating teams received their theme — Evolve — and set off to begin their creative process. Eight teams participated in this year’s challenge, racing against the clock to turn in their work by 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 12. At 6 p.m., family, friends, and film enthusiasts alike arrived to show their support and see the films on the GIANT Screen. The short films were shown in two blocks, four before a brief intermission and four after, showcasing an impressive range of genres, tones, and storytelling techniques. A panel of distinguished judges scored the films based on creativity, storytelling, technical execution, and overall impact. This year’s judges included: Michael Mehuys, Alternating Currents film festival team; Alexander Clark, Artifekz Studios and Xpreshion Multimedia; Linda Cook, digital reporter and content producer at OurQuadCities.com/WHBF; and professional film critic Scott Raper, general manager of The Last Picture House. The teams waited in anticipation as the judges and audience cast their votes for the night’s winners. (The Putnam Museum) And the winners are Critic’s Choice Award: "Real Life" – Little Giant Productions; and Audience Favorite Award: "Dance of the Monarch – Omitted." Winning teams received cash prizes, custom trophies, waiver codes to submit their films to Alternating Currents 2026, and movie passes to The Last Picture House. The winning films will also be featured on select Thursday night screenings at the Putnam. (The Putnam Mueum) Because of the success of this year’s event, the 48 Hour Film Challenge will return in 2026, beginning on Oct. 9 with film screenings on Oct. 11. About the Putnam The Putnam Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, brings to life a sense of place, time and purpose to ignite human potential and inspire our diverse community to learn about and care for our world and all its people. For more than 150 years, guests have experienced the Putnam’s permanent exhibits ranging from Unearthing Ancient Egypt to our family-favorite science galleries, as well as an array of programs and internationally recognized traveling exhibits. The Putnam is dedicated to helping guests discover and explore in a friendly and engaging atmosphere. For more information about events and exhibits, visit here. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() INTERVIEW: A Haunting We Will Go: Muppets Take Main StreetEast Moline is back with its popular Halloween celebration. And this time, The Muppets are invited. East Moline Main Street President Dawn Imel and Michelle Horton from Respect Abilities tells us more about this family-friendly event. |
![]() | ![]() "My Wicked Hometown: The Hidden History of Davenport, Iowa" IntroductionAny citizen of Davenport can tell you that our town was named after Colonel George Davenport. They might not know much else of the city's history, but that they are pretty sure of. Unfortunately, much of what they think they know is wrong. |
![]() | ![]() Sidran's Suit Secures Sorry Depositions In $1.6MM Davenport GiveawayCitizen's Case Reveals Incurious Davenport Mayor and Council Gave Away $1.6MM to Spiegel Without Requesting or Reviewing Demand Letter Addressed to Themselves |
![]() | ![]() Man sentenced to life in prison without parole for 2024 Davenport homicideDevon Braet has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of first-degree murder in a 2024 Davenport double homicide case. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Quad City music organizations announce mergerCommon Chord and the Bix Beiderbecke Jazz Society are merging. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Gov. Reynolds announces $5M in grants to further address gaps in child careGovernor Kim Reynolds has committed an additional $5 million to further expand child care and preschool program partnerships through a second round of Continuum of Care grants. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Iowa officials warn voters about fraudulent texts as early voting beginsSecretary of State urges caution after scam reports surface |
![]() | ![]() ![]() INTERVIEW: Scare up some candy this weekend at Spooktacular Trunk or TreatCandy, costumes and community. Moline Parks and Recreation brings together all three with its popular Halloween event. Nathan Berthoud tells us all about the 6th annual Spooktacular Trunk or Treat. |
![]() | ![]() Pay it Forward: Quad City students invited to D.C. for reopening of African American Civil War MuseumQuad City students will travel to Washington, D.C., for the reopening of the African American Civil War Museum, honoring local Civil War history and heroes. |
![]() | ![]() Pedestrian struck and killed on I-80 near Geneseo, police sayA pedestrian was struck and killed early Thursday on I-80 near Geneseo, prompting a shutdown of westbound lanes for several hours, police said. |
![]() | ![]() Person killed after being hit by vehicle on I-80, troopers sayThe person was pronounced dead as the scene, officials said. |
![]() | ![]() Pedestrian struck and killed on I-80 near Geneseo, police sayA pedestrian was struck and killed early Thursday on I-80 near Geneseo, prompting a shutdown of westbound lanes for several hours, police said. |
![]() | ![]() Pay it Forward: Quad City students off to D.C. for reopening of African American Civil War MuseumQuad City students will travel to Washington, D.C., for the reopening of the African American Civil War Museum, honoring local Civil War history and heroes. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() How the government shutdown is affecting Iowa and Illinois food banksFood banks in Iowa and Illinois are feeling pressure from the government shutdown. Managers of the Food Bank of Iowa are preparing in case federal funding for food programs goes away. SNAP benefits and WIC food programs continue as normal during the shutdown, but food bank managers worry more furloughed or laid off federal employees might turn to food pantries for help. The Food Bank of Iowa isn't federally-funded. It gets commodity food through the USDA. Managers say they should keep getting those deliveries through December, but anything beyond that is at risk. Soup kitchens in Illinois are bracing for the impact from federal cuts to SNAP food benefits. Managers of the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen in Champaign say they went from serving 600 meals a day to about 1,000 a day over the last six months. They serve a five-course meal every day at noon and send their guests home with a sack lunch. An Eastern Illinois Foodbank spokesperson says that organization is seeing the need increase as well. They are serving twice as many people now as compared to 2022. |
![]() | ![]() Win permanent holiday lights for your home and shine all year long!WQAD and Electric Doctor launch a Holiday Lights Sweepstakes offering a permanent lighting display, with installation. Enter by November 16th! |
![]() | ![]() Geneseo council approves water, electric, refuse ratesOn Tuesday as part of the consent agenda, the council approved the recommended rate increases to water, sewer and electric rates. |
![]() | ![]() No offers made for Colona former car wash propertyThe council approved a motion to hire a commercial real estate agent provided the only cost to the city would be commission-based. |
![]() | ![]() William Jennings BryanThis is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.For those restless Rock Islanders who might have felt cooped up after a long hard winter below the Mississippi River… |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Enter the Library Haunted House if you dare!Enter the Library Haunted House if you dare! The East Moline Public Library will be transformed into a haunted house for two nights only, October 24-25, 7:00-10:00 p.m. Designed and facilitated by the Teen Library Council, this is a free event for ages 12 and up. Donations benefit teen programming. Library Haunted House (East Moline Public Library) The East Moline Public Library is located at 745 16th Ave., East Moline. For more information and a list of rules for the haunted house, click here. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Ben McCollum bringing winning culture to Iowa men’s basketball teamThe Ben McCollum era has officially begun for Iowa Men’s Basketball. McCollum loaded this team with talent. He brought six players with him from Drake and only two players remain from last season’s roster. |
![]() | ![]() Milan under boil order until further noticeThe entire Village of Milan will be under a boil order until further notice. According to a post on Milan's Facebook page: Due to a water main break near the water tower at Camden Park, the Village is currently experiencing a system-wide reduction or loss of water pressure. When water service is restored, the entire Village will be under a boil order until further notice. Please boil all water used for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth for at least 5 minutes before use. According to the post, Milan will provide updates when more information becomes available. |
![]() | ![]() Davenport considers expanding house renovation programCity leaders are considering expanding the Extreme DREAM program as Rejuvenate Housing opens its fifth renovated home in central Davenport. |
Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 | |
![]() | ![]() ![]() ‘It hits hard’: Savanna community reacts to Elkay Plumbing closureElkay Plumbing will be closing its doors in Savanna and will transfer 178 jobs to Lanark and Freeport through the end of December, the company said. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Honor 9/11 at Tunnel to Towers Never Forget ExhibitA museum on wheels is coming to Aledo to remember those who lost their lives on September 11. Julie Wagner, Steve Schrock and Chad Weeks joined Our Quad Cities News to talk about the Tunnel to Towers 9/11 Never Forget Exhibit. For more information, click here. |
![]() | ![]() Books and Meows in Davenport closing its doorsIn its 11 months of operation, the cat lounge adopted out dozens of cats. |
![]() | ![]() Books and Meows in Davenport closes its doorsIn its 11 months of operation, the cat lounge adopted out dozens of cats. |
![]() | ![]() Davenport considers expanding home renovation programCity leaders are considering an expansion to the Extreme DREAM program as Rejuvenate Housing opens its fifth renovated home. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Bella McDaniel Deliver(s) on athletes' mental healthThree years ago, Bella McDaniel was a multi-sport student-athlete at Geneseo High School. She struggled with mental health during her years as an athlete. That's something she saw a lot of her friends and teammates deal with, too. She did not want to be a bystander. McDaniel approached her strength and conditioning coach, Angelo James, with her worries. "I was like, there is a need we need to address here in the athletic setting," recalled McDaniel. "I don't know how we can do that, but let's do it." She decided to pivot her plan after high school from playing tennis at the collegiate level to starting a non-profit organization to help athletes open up about their mental health. Delivered with Purpose became McDaniel's new path in life. "I know this is a need and for some reason, I was chosen to do this," said McDaniel. Her first workshop with a team was June 2024. Since then, she has worked with six other schools and teams in the Quad Cities area. This includes the Assumption softball team - one of the top teams in the state at their level. She brought in a team to collaborate on the workshop with Assumption. She wanted to have people who dealt with their own mental health issues, specifically in softball. "That was great because it was easier for the girls to relate to that," said Tyler Edwards, the Assumption softball head coach. They always start their conversations on the field, literally and figuratively, "Starting there and kind of using it in terms that they understand," said McDaniel. "Because then it opens the conversation to more, deeper mental health." McDaniel and her team will then give the athletes exercises they can use, not only day-to-day, but even in between pitches. "Coaches tell their players to breathe, right?" said Edwards. "Yes, that's great advice, but this is an actual method on how to actually breathe and focus on breathing." That method? A relaxation technique known as "box breathing." Athletes breathe in for four seconds, then out for four seconds, then repeat. "It gives you a way to clear your brain and restart if something just happened," said Edwards. For a team that often finds itself in high-pressure situations on their way to battling for a championship, this tool has been really useful. "We have a lot of opportunities where we're challenged throughout the year," said Edwards. "We have to rely on being able to reset." The workshops also help athletes figure out how to deal with the challenging transition of retiring from sports. "When you compete in your last meet or you compete at your last tournament, you are just left there like, 'OK, now what?'" said McDaniel. "I think it's really important to have those next steps of, 'Where's my purpose outside of athletics?'" Delivered with Purpose works with all levels of teams ranging from Division I to high school and even travel ball teams. For more information, visit here. For those interested in setting up a workshop with Delivered, visit the website. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Manager of massage parlor tenders plea agreement for court's considerationA women arrested over the summer for allegedly operating a massage parlor in which police said illicit sex acts had been solicited submitted a plea agreement for the court's consideration. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() John Deere moving some production jobs out of Ottumwa, Des MoinesJohn Deere announced that some jobs at the Ottumwa and Des Moines plants would soon be relocated to other facilities in Iowa and Illinois. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() YWCA Quad Cities to open youth homeless shelterThe non-profit is turning it’s former Rock Island location into the Quad Cities only youth homeless shelter called Alan’s House. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Vietnam veteran wants to help preserve legacy of combat, warA Quad Cities Vietnam veteran spoke with Our Quad Cities Photojournalist Mike Colón about the importance of remembering veterans and their service. Bill Albracht (Mike Colón, OurQuadCities.com) Most Vietnam veterans don't, won't, or can't, talk about their service in Vietnam, Capt. Bill Albracht said in a presentation at the Bettendorf Library. "I'm very fortunate because once I wrote what became a book it was a cathartic experience," Albracht said. "And this allows me to now enlighten others and tell them the story of the brave men I served with." "Last night I was talking to about 50 or 60 high-school students at St. John Vianney, the youth ministry. And they don't know anything about Vietnam - not a clue," Albracht said. He said it's important to keep alive the memory of the war and those who served. "To keep that alive, we have to honor our veterans and we have to let America know that it was very brave men who served with honor," Albracht said. "You can see it. You know: Read the room. You can see it in their faces. I could see that I got through to them and they really understood the message." He was a little apprehensive at first, with "such an age difference But it turned out to be very good, a bunch of bright, attentive (students,)" Albracht said. "They're going to be the leaders of tomorrow." Albracht discussed leadership with the students, along with what it means to be a leader, "and decision-making - critical decision making," Albracht said. "We talked about all those things, as well as combat in Vietnam." There's a quote that Albracht is fond of. "The night we had the breakout, went through enemy lines, and they were completely surrounded and we were all so, so very scared. But when we said our prayers, we got the courage." The quote is: "Courage is fear that has said its prayers." "Truer words couldn't have been spoken," Albracht said. The Bettendorf Public Library’s Global Gathering Vietnam Series runs through next month. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Wave of development brings new life to Moline’s John Deere Road corridorA major retail corridor in Moline is getting a new look — and a new lineup of businesses. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Devon Braet handed one life sentence for his role in 2024 Davenport double murderDevon Braet, 35, appeared for sentencing Wednesday on nine convictions for his role in the 2024 murders of Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith. |
![]() | ![]() Moline salon reopens after fire forced yearlong closureSerenity Salon & Day Spa is back in business after a fire forced the Moline salon to shut down in July 2024. A grand reopening party is set for Oct. 25. |
![]() | ![]() Zurn Elkay to close Savanna facility, transfer positions to Lanark and FreeportZurn Elkay Water Solutions will close its Savanna, Illinois, facility and transfer employee positions to existing plants in Lanark and Freeport, the company said. |
![]() | ![]() Wallace's Garden Center rebuilding after fireThe center lost about 12,000 feet of growing space in the fire. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Wheel of Fortune Live! coming to Davenport’s Capitol TheatreWheel of Fortune Live! will be making a stop at the Capitol Theatre Thursday night. |
![]() | ![]() Drought rolls on in Quad Cities - next update due out Thursday, October 16thWith plenty of dry weather over the last 7 days, don't expect any improvement in the drought around the Quad Cities when we get the next update on Thursday. The drought monitor comes out each Thursday. |
![]() | ![]() Serenity Salon reopening after fireStaff have been working out of a temporary salon since the fire, but now their home is up and running again. |
![]() | ![]() No injuries in East Moline car fireThe cause of the fire is still unknown. |
![]() | ![]() Man sentenced to life in prison without parole for 2024 Davenport homicideDevon Braet has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of first-degree murder in a 2024 Davenport double homicide case. |
![]() | ![]() Current Reads: 3 book recs from Princeton to get you in the spooky moodA chilling and true Midwest murder, the mysterious case of 12 sisters with a family curse, and a children's book about a skull await in this week's Current Reads. |
![]() | ![]() Current Reads: 3 book recs from Princeton to get you in the spooky moodA chilling and true Midwest murder, the mysterious case of 12 sisters with a family curse, and a children's book about a skull await in this week's Current Reads. |
![]() | ![]() 'I hope you rot in hell.' It's life without parole for Braet in double Davenport homicide"I hope you rot in hell." The words from the loved ones in of the late Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith were tearful, emotion-packed and compelling as they gave victim-impact statements during the sentencing of 36-year-old Devon Braet on Wednesday in Scott County Court. Devon Braet (Scott County Jail) In July, a Scott County jury found Braet guilty of one count of first-degree murder, two counts of assault while participating in a crime, one count of going armed with intent, one count of use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime, two counts of abuse of a corpse and second-degree arson. He was found not guilty of one count of first-degree murder, two counts of robbery, one count of going armed with intent and one count of use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime in the deaths of Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith on Jan. 16, 2024. "We must maintain decorum throughout thus proceeding," District Court Judge Stuart Werling said as the sentencing hearing began. Braet "has a criminal history going back to 2001," said prosecutor Scott County Attorney Kelly Cunningham. "This is an individual who is a significant danger to the community." Braet did not address the court. Four several people gave victim-impact statements and sometimes spoke directly to Braet. "Brian and his family made our family whole," said Deanna Gott, Goodwin's mother. She showed a picture of the family. "If I ever needed anything, he would be right there," she said. "These ashes are all I have left of my son. "And you still live on," she said to Braet. "I hope you have the life and death you so deserve." Also giving a victim-impact statement was Destiny Martinie, Goodwin's sister: "He was always there. He was my rock," she said. "I had to sit in a pew at his funeral and stare at a box and a picture." All she has left of her brother is a teddy bear and some ashes, she said. She told Braet "You are a vile human .... I hope you rot in hell." "I thought I would have more time," said Sallie Smith, Amy Smith's mother. "He took her. He just took her. Why?" Werling's sentenced Braet for each count for which he was convicted, including life without parole for first-degree murder. A fire, and then a double-homicide scene Shortly before 4 a.m. Jan. 16, 2024, Davenport Police and Fire responded to the 5200 block of North Division Street for a report of a structure fire. Davenport Fire crews arrived to find moderate smoke showing from an apartment and quickly extinguished the fire, according to arrest affidavits and Davenport Police. During a search of the apartment, firefighters found Goodwin and Smith deceased. Davenport Police say Braet and Adriana Blake (Prieto) placed a combustible material inside of the residence where the deceased victims were located, according to police and affidavits. Officers say the two knowingly acted together “to mutilate the bodies of the victims by the use of fire in an attempt to conceal the crime of murder.” On Jan. 18, 2024, Braet and Blake (Prieto) were taken into custody on outstanding warrants. Goodwin and Smith both had been shot, according to earlier testimony from Davenport Police Detective Brandon Askew. He said the shooting took place between 4:30 and 7 a.m. Jan. 15. Askew said two guns were recovered. Adriana Blake (Prieto) (Scott County Jail) A Scott County jury on May 30 found Adriana Blake guilty on two charges each of first-degree murder, first-degree robbery, assault while committing a felony – serious injury and use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime. She was found not guilty of one count of going armed with intent. Blake maintained her innocence in August of 2025 when a judge sentenced her to life without parole. |
![]() | ![]() Ulta coming to MolineThe makeup and beauty supply store will be alongside the new ALDI, Five Below and Burlington just off John Deere Road. |
![]() | ![]() Man sentenced to life in prison without parole for 2024 Davenport homicideDevon Braet has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of first-degree murder in a 2024 Davenport double homicide case. |
![]() | ![]() Quad City Storm return to the rink this weekendGoalie Zane Steeves and Captain Tommy Tsicos joined The Current to give fans a look at what the season has in store. |
![]() | ![]() Rock Island Arsenal cancels retiree appreciation event amid shutdownThe event was originally scheduled for Saturday and will be rescheduled for later in 2026, officials said. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Larry the Cable Guy will 'Git-R'-Done' at Rhythm City Casino“I’ll tell you what…” there’s going to be plenty of laughs for everyone when Larry The Cable Guy comes to the Event Center at Rhythm City Casino, 7077 Elmore Avenue in Davenport, on Saturday, March 21 at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at The Market at Rhythm City or online here. (Rhythm City Casino) Larry has entertained fans of all ages for decades, whether as a standup comedian, part of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour or performing as “Tow Mater” in the Pixar “Cars” franchise. Larry won Billboard's 2005 Comedy Artist of the Year and Comedy Album of the Year and received the Billboard Top Comedy Tour Award in 2006. His best-selling book “Git-R-Done,” (2005) debuted at #26 on the New York Times bestseller list. He and his wife, Cara established the Git-R-Done Foundation in 2009, which emphasizes children’s and veterans causes. The foundation has donated over $8 million to charities like Operation Homefront and the Arnold Palmer Hospital since 2009. |
![]() | ![]() “Artificial and Still: Woven Works on Paper,” through December 12With the project supported by Quad City Arts' re-granting program Arts Dollars, the Illinois Arts Council Agency, the Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, and the Quad Cities Community Foundation - Isabel Bloom Art Education Endowment, Lucas Berns' exhibition Artificial and Still: Woven Works on Paper is on display at St. Ambrose University's Morrissey Gallery through December 12, a Q&A and reception scheduled for November 6. |
![]() | ![]() “Lettering and Assemblage: (things I love, my art so far),” October 20 through December 12An eclectic mix of practical lettering and expressive pieces that involve letters, historical recreations, and three-dimensional collages, Cheryl Jacobsen's Lettering and Assemblage: (things I love, my art so far) is on display at St. Ambrose University's Catich Gallery from October 20 through December 12, with the artist and her work showcased in a Q&A and reception on October 23. |
![]() | ![]() LIVE: Man sentenced to life in prison in Davenport murder, arson trialDevon Braet was found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of Brian Goodwin and arson in July. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() YWCA 'Week Without Violence' events offer support to familiesYWCA Quad Cities is part of a global movement to end all forms of violence. The annual Week Without Violence is October 20–24 and this year's theme is “Safe Beginnings: Protecting Mothers, Nurturing Futures.” Events will focus on supporting mothers and their children while they build hopeful, healthy futures. YWCA Quad Cities invites the public to participate in events throughout the week to educate, engage and advocate for a world free from violence for women, girls and families. “When we invest in safe, healthy beginnings for mothers, we strengthen the foundation of our entire community,” said Julie Larson, YWCA Quad Cities President & CEO. “This week is about awareness, action, and compassion—standing together to make sure every family has the support they deserve.” Events during the week include: Monday, October 20 – Every Mother Matters Awareness March, 9:30 a.m., YWCA Quad Cities, 513 17th Street in Rock Island. The march will raise awareness about maternal and infant health disparities and advocate for equitable, respectful care for all mothers. Argrow’s Café Food Truck will be on site starting at 8:30 a.m. for breakfast and coffee and Larson will give remarks at 9:30 a.m., followed by a one-mile community walk through downtown Rock Island. Tuesday, October 21 – The Village presents “Healthy Beginnings Q&A”, 5 –6 p.m., YWCA Empowerment Center, 1115 Mississippi Avenue in Davenport. Community Health Care (CHC) is partnering with the YWCA for an open Q&A session for new and expecting moms. Trusted providers can give expert advice on newborn care, safety, development and postpartum health in a welcoming, judgment-free space. Wednesday, October 22 – Maternal Health Expo, 3 – 6 p.m., YWCA Quad Cities, 513 17th Street in Rock Island. The YWCA is working with CHC to host a one-stop event with free resources and services for expecting mothers, including: • Free blood pressure checks by CHC nurses • Guidance on Title X assistance and family planning • Information on behavioral health, perinatal dental care and primary care • Free diapers, wipes, and prenatal vitamins provided by YWCA Quad Cities Thursday, October 23 – The Village Presents “Healthy Beginnings Q&A” (Encore Session), 10 –11 a.m., YWCA Quad Cities, 513 17th Street in Rock Island. This is a repeat of the session on Tuesday. |
![]() | ![]() Iowa mom criticizes Medicaid cuts on Capitol HillAn Iowa mother spoke on Capitol Hill, condemning proposed Medicaid cuts and recalling her family’s struggle caring for two children with critical illnesses. |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Bettendorf man arrested for allegedly receiving child sex abuse materials on DiscordA Bettendorf man has been arrested on charges alleging he possessed child sex abuse materials obtained through online platform Discord. |
![]() | ![]() Holiday Lights Sweepstakes Official RulesOfficial rules for this sweepstakes |
![]() | ![]() Win Tickets to a Quad City Storm Game Sweepstakes Official RulesOfficial rules for this sweepstakes |
![]() | ![]() ![]() Former Keokuk County Sheriff’s Deputy sentenced for role in hayride crashA former Keokuk County Sheriff’s Deputy was sentenced for his role in a hayride crash that injured multiple kids. |
![]() | ![]() “The Wicked & the Weird: Stories from the Quad Cities,” October 26"Wicked" and "weird" are two words that can sum up various Quad Cities events and serve to define the region's past and present, and on October 26, historian, storyteller, and Eerie Quad Cities co-author John Brassard Jr. will share fascinating tales of our area history in The Wicked & the Weird: Stories from the Quad Cities, the latest presentation in the German American Heritage Center's popular "Kaffee und Kuchen" series. |