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

Glowsticks ready: Silent Disco takes over Arts Alley and the Skybridge during Alternating Currents

Alternating Currents will host three free Silent Disco nights Aug. 13–15, featuring multi‑channel DJs, wireless headphones and two unique downtown venues in Rock Island and Davenport.

10 Tips to Vacation-Proof Your Home While You're Away

(Feature Impact) Whether you're headed toward the beach, the mountains, a new city or your favorite quaint small town, it's exciting to look forward to a vacation. Making sure all the logistics are planned, prepped and ready before your departure is the tough part, but it's well worth putting in the effort now to save yourself stress later. That includes taking precautions to protect your home from break-ins, water damage and other unpleasant surprises you'd rather not return to. "A vacation should end with great memories, not an unexpected repair bill," said Larry Anderson, director of underwriting operations for Mercury Insurance. "Taking a few simple steps before you leave can help protect your home, reduce unnecessary stress and give you greater peace of mind while you're away." Use these 10 steps as a pre-vacation checklist so you can enjoy a worry-free trip. Lock Doors, Gates and Windows You probably won't forget to lock the front door before you leave, but other entry points can be easier to forget. Check all your windows, sliding glass doors, side entrances and gates. If you have any outbuildings like a shed or detached garage, secure them before you leave as well. Automate Lights for a Lived-In Look Although you don't have to go full "Home Alone," a home that appears occupied is less of a target for burglars. Use timers or automated smart devices to turn lights on and off throughout the day, ideally varying the schedules in different rooms. Hold Mail and Packages Beyond being easy prey for porch pirates, stacks of packages and overflowing mail signal no one is home to collect them. Contact your post office to place a hold on deliveries or arrange for a trusted neighbor to get the mail for you. Consider Shutting Off the Water A small leak can quickly become a big problem when there's nobody home to notice. If practical, shutting off your home's main water supply can help prevent major plumbing issues - and at the very least, be good for your peace of mind. Set the Thermostat It's important to maintain a safe indoor temperature in your home while you're away. The usual wisdom is to set the thermostat at 55-60 F during the winter to prevent pipes from freezing, and about 85 F during the summer to reduce energy use while protecting the home from excessive heat and humidity. Smart thermostats allow you to monitor and control temperatures remotely if the weather changes unexpectedly. Test Smoke Alarms and Other Devices Make sure your emergency alert systems are ready to do their jobs while you're gone. Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and any leak sensors, smart devices or security systems. If needed, replace batteries and confirm your monitoring apps are set up to get notifications promptly. Ask a Trusted Person to Check In Neighbors, friends or family members will often keep an eye on the place during your vacation (especially if you return the favor during theirs). It's up to you whether you want to give them a key to check things out inside; otherwise, a quick walk around the property can identify external damage or signs of forced entry. Be Social-Media Savvy Even if you trust everyone on your online friends list, it's better to be safe than sorry. Save the vacation photos to post once you're safely back so you don't unintentionally advertise that nobody's home. Tidy Up Outdoor Spaces Well-maintained landscaping gives the impression someone is home and cares about the property. An afternoon of yardwork before you leave can keep things looking fresh for a while. Review Your Homeowners Insurance No matter how well you prepare, it's smart to have a fallback plan in case something goes wrong. Before your trip, review your homeowners policy to make sure you know what it covers and how to reach your insurance company in the event of any incidents. For more information about homeowners insurance coverage and ways to help protect your home year-round, visit MercuryInsurance.com.   Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

MLS named LAFC co-owner Larry Berg as its next commissioner. Here's what to know

For their commissioner of the future, MLS owners chose a soccer native. Berg's team is seen as one of MLS's best-run franchises, and he has embraced rule changes designed to modernize the league.

Henderson County mulls tax referendum to support emergency services from Burlington

The Henderson County Board will consider a tax referendum that would raise money to support an agreement with the City of Burlington to provide emergency services in the county. The vote will come at the Tuesday, Aug. 11, county board meeting after county board members met Tuesday,Aug. 4, with the Henderson County Ambulance Board to [...]

Village of East Davenport one step closer to keeping its tattoo shops

Two tattoo shops will be forced to move unless City Council approves a zoning law change allowing them to stay in the Village.

Three Quad Cities area projects compete for Iowa League of Cities community award

Projects in Bettendorf, Riverdale and Muscatine are in the running for the All-Star Community Award. Here's how to cast your vote. The first round closes Aug. 14.

Iowa Central becomes first college approved for Workforce Pell EMT program

A federal financial aid program that launched months ago is making history in Fort Dodge. Iowa Central Community College is now the first college in the nation to have an approved Workforce Pell program.

Moline to redesign I-74 and John Deere Road interchange with diverging diamond

The city of Moline is redesigning the I-74 and John Deere Road interchange. IDOT says the new diverging diamond design will reduce crashes and improve traffic flow.

All 20 Eldridge volunteer firefighters say they're quitting Oct. 1

It comes amid ongoing disputes over the best path forward after the city council voted to make the volunteer fire company a city department.

Eldridge volunteer firefighters announce resignation

Shortly before the Eldridge City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance that would make the fire department a city-run entity, the current staff of volunteer firefighters announced they would resign when the takeover happens on October 1. That is when the city plans to take over the fire and EMS operations. The decision [...]

All 20 Eldridge volunteer firefighters to quit later this year

Last year, the Eldridge's Volunteer Fire Department voted unanimously to be absorbed by the City. The two sides haven't always agreed on the best path forward.

Davenport Summer Meal Program serves 71,000 meals

The Davenport Summer Meal Program is serving up more than smiles, serving 71,000 meals to kids since June.

Authorities arrested a man with ammo and apparently monitoring security at Trump golf course near LA

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said Jeanine John Taele, 38, was taking photos and video and had a 16-round magazine with ammunition in his pocket.

Musco Sports Center competes for Iowa community award

The Musco Sports Center is competing for the Iowa League of Cities' All Star Community Awards. According to a release from the City of Muscatine, the Musco Sports Center has been selected as one of 16 statewide finalists for the People’s All Star Community Award. The award recognizes innovative local government projects, with winners determined [...]

Zoning Commission recommends city allow tattoo shops in the Village of East Davenport

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended amending the zoning code after two tattoo shops filed petitions in the Village of East Davenport.

Mississippi Valley Fair prepares for possible rain

As storms threaten the Mississippi Valley Fair, officials and vendors are preparing for those wet conditions.

More Americans now use marijuana than smoke cigarettes, new report finds

For the first time, more Americans report using marijuana than smoking cigarettes, according to a new national report.

Quad City brothers return from BMX world championships in Australia

Knox and Deacon Reaves are no strangers to Team USA BMX competitions, but this was the first time they were able to represent their country together.

Illinois law will require most retailers to accept cash for purchases under $500

Most Illinois retailers will be required to accept cash for in-person purchases under $500 starting Jan. 1, 2028, under a new law signed by Gov. JB Pritzker.

A chance for some storms tonight and tomorrow

After a pleasant start to the work week yesterday, with sunshine and warm weather, the risk of severe weather makes a return for tonight and tomorrow. Later this evening we will see a marginal risk for severe weather mainly for the Iowa side of the river with strong winds and heavy rain being the main [...]

Crews respond to apartment fire in Davenport

The Davenport Fire Department responded to an apartment fire in the 1500 block of Harrison Street Monday.

Police departments across the area celebrate National Night Out

Police departments across the area are celebrating National Night Out with food, games and family activities to strengthen community relationships.

Man arrested in Monday armed robbery in Davenport

He was arrested on Monday after police responded to an armed robbery at Hilltop Grocery.

SpaceX's revenue rises as its once-soaring stock price drifts back to Earth

On their first earnings call since SpaceX's June public offering, executives said the company is pouring funds into rocket development, Starlink satellites and AI.

Quad Cities brothers represent Team USA at Australia BMX competition

Knox and Deacon Reaves are back from The Land Down Under and share what it was like to compete internationally together for the first time ever.

Programming Note: 6 p.m. news only available on streaming Thursday

The news at 6 p.m. will only be available on KWQC’s streaming platforms Thursday.

New date announced for Red, White and Boom! fireworks show

Originally set to take place during the Fourth of July weekend, the event was postponed due to weather.

Davenport man charged in armed robbery of Hilltop Grocery

A Davenport man is charged after police say he robbed Hilltop Grocery at gunpoint Monday. Officers later arrested him and say they recovered a handgun.

Iowa DNR investigating wastewater discharge that reached Mississippi River in Keokuk

Repairs are underway. Those using the river recreationally downstream should use extra caution and avoid the area, the Iowa DNR recommended.

Geneseo Quilt Gallery ribbon cutting Friday at Smith Studio & Gallery

The colorful and artistic creations highlight the skill and creativity of local quilters while demonstrating the many reasons quilts are made.

North Scott Press — Aug. 5, 2026

Muscatine man charged after running from deputies, crashing motorcycle

A Muscatine man is facing multiple charges after running from deputies and crashing his motorcycle.

Where does Mt. Joy PFAS investigation stand?

The Iowa Army National Guard released its first report on potential PFAS contamination near the Davenport Municipal Airport in June 2019. Seven years later, where does the investigation stand? Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, abbreviated as PFAS and often called “forever chemicals,” have been linked to various forms of cancer and break down slowly, if at all, in the natural environment. The former army aviation support facility at 9650 N. Harrison Street, next to the airport, used a specialized firefighting foam containing PFAS—aqueous film-forming foam, or AFFF—to handle difficult fuel fires. A preliminary assessment in 2019 found that prior to 1994, the facility flushed AFFF into a septic system whenever it emptied fire extinguishers and other equipment. Researchers could only confirm one use of AFFF at the airport, following a crash at the 1992 air show. In 2020, groundwater at the support facility tested at around about 1,000 times the Environmental Protection Agency’s drinking water maximum for PFOS, one of several suspected PFAS contaminants. PFOA, another contaminant, was detected at nearly 100 times the drinking water maximum. Groundwater upgradient from the Davenport site contained PFAS at up to 20 times the drinking water maximum. Groundwater downgradient also contained elevated PFAS levels, up to five times the maximum. Those figures were released in 2022. Now, four years later, the ARNG is in the midst of a “remedial investigation” that will determine how far PFAS have spread from the initial contamination site. No drinking water is sourced from contaminated areas. All drinking water in Mt. Joy is safe, officials said. Walt Gee, cleanup program manager with the Army National Guard in Arlington, Va., told The North Scott Press that there is “no present risk to drinking water” in connection with the Mt. Joy site. “The Army is driven by a science-based approach to cleanups. When our data indicates a risk, we act immediately to cut off that exposure path,” Gee wrote in an email. “We aggressively mitigate immediate risks while the final, long-term environmental remedy undergoes necessary regulatory and public reviews.” That has not been necessary in Mt. Joy. Tests of drinking water from wells at the former Caterpillar plant and Mt. Joy mobile home park conducted in 2026 did not detect PFAS. Matt Graesch, senior environmental specialist at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, said that PFAS numbers in Mt. Joy were low compared to other contamination sites linked to military installations and airports. “I’m not saying it’s great, it’s just better than it could have been,” he said. The ARNG has not posted an update to the contamination site’s online case file since June 2025, when a “community involvement plan” said neighbors and members of the public would be notified of “important events or information.” Jake Bucklin, Iowa Department of Natural Resources project manager for the Davenport contamination site, said that work was ongoing. Last fall, ARNG consultants were working on offsite testing to the east and southeast of the air support facility to delineate the spread of PFAS contamination. Additional offsite testing had been planned at the time, Bucklin reported. “It's a fairly large site, and dealing with PFAS can be complicated,” Bucklin said. “Usually, you're not able to fully delineate the contamination in one or two attempts.” “The general public doesn’t have a great sense of how long these sites take to investigate,” Graesch added. “Five years would be a fast one. Ten years would be normal.” The remedial investigation was still in the first of its two phases, Bucklin said: “vertical and horizontal delineation of the contamination that's been identified.” Once that was complete, consultants would “take that analytical data and what they know about the hydrology and everything else, and come up with a feasible remedial strategy to clean that contamination up.” Graesch said the ARNG was concentrating resources on other sites across the country. “The [Mt. Joy] site has been deprioritized. They’re spending the time and money on sites where there’s real risk to public health,” he said. Gee said the ARNG had “maintained ongoing stakeholder engagement throughout the investigation.” “The Army actively coordinates with regulators, local officials, and adjacent landowners through planning meetings, field work, and reviews of investigation reports,” Gee wrote. John Maxwell, chair of the Scott County Board of Supervisors, said he had not heard from the ARNG since he assumed the chairmanship in 2024. Former Chair Ken Beck had not received information since 2024, he said. That may be because remediation strategies for the Davenport site are months, or even years, away. Bucklin said work on PFAS investigations at army sites—which have unfolded across the country in recent years—have been halting, subject to changes in federal funding. “PFAS is a fairly new contaminant, so they’re still developing remedial strategies,” Bucklin said. One solution is activated carbon, the same ingredient in many household water filters. Activated carbon can be injected into the ground to absorb PFAS like a sponge. Activated carbon would be “injected in a line into the ground at the downstream end of the groundwater flow direction,” Bucklin explained. “So basically, it just acts like a wall that stops that the contaminated groundwater from flowing any further.” In some cases, remediation involves excavating contaminated soil or injecting substances that can break down harmful chemicals, Bucklin added. “It just depends on the individual situation,” he said. Gee wrote that it “is too early to estimate when remediation strategies might be implemented.” He declined to indicate when new information would next be made public. What old documents show The first report commissioned by the ARNG—a “preliminary assessment” released in 2019—listed a wash bay used to flush and clean firefighting equipment as a possible site of PFAS contamination. A 2022 “site inspection” found elevated PFAS levels in soil and groundwater below the wash bay, and nearby areas. The first EPA drinking water maximums for PFAS were set in 2023. The results of that study are compiled in the table above. The table lists only the four PFAS contaminants for which the EPA has set a drinking water maximum, though the site inspection tested for over 10 PFASs. The ongoing “remedial investigation” will establish a detailed picture of where PFAS contamination has spread and how it can be redressed. The ARNG has not made public any data collected during the remedial investigation. In June 2025, it published a community involvement plan detailing its conversations with government entitles and nearby landowners. “The CIP reflects input from the surrounding community and establishes measures to ensure timely and effective information exchange between the various federal, state, and local agencies, educational and civic organizations, and the public,” its introduction reports. Groups consulted for the study include the Davenport Municipal Airport, Scott County Board of Supervisors and health department, Iowa DNR, and the City of Davenport. “Approximately 90% of respondents were interested in receiving information ‘whenever events warrant’. Some respondents wanted contact on a monthly or quarterly basis,” the CIP summarizes. The CIP lists several ways the ARNG should engage the public: by sending public notices and press releases to local media outlets, maintaining contact with stakeholders, and post information to social media. Getting tested? Graesch stressed that PFAS contamination at the Davenport site was “extremely low level contamination to what we’ve seen elsewhere.” No Scott County wells had tested positive for PFAS contamination as a result of chemical disposal there, he said. PFAS testing is expensive—$600 for a single test, which must be confirmed with a second, $600 blank test if the first sample shows up positive. Every Iowa county receives a state stipend for PFAS testing at private wells, typically about $50,000, though the sum fluctuates year to year. Private well owners may request to have PFAS tested every three years, Amy Thoreson, director of the Scott County Health Department, said. The health department must pre-approve each well it tests for PFAS with the DNR to guarantee funding.    

“McCarty-Tomlinson & Sherman,” August 13 through October 1

New works by a pair of gifted artists, working in vastly different mediums, will be on display at the Quad City Arts Center from August 13 through October, staffers at the Rock Island venue proud to house paintings by Colleen McCarty-Tomlinson and marbled-paper works by Connie Sherman.

Rummage sale clears out community center

A rummage sale at Boll’s Community Center in Princeton cleared out 70% of old decorations and miscellaneous material, and raised $694 for the community center fund. Princeton was set to close on the $200,000 sale of the property Friday, July 31, before buyer Tom McMurren of Rushville, Ill. was called out of the country, City Clerk Kisa Tweed said. Volunteer and former Community Center Board member Val Rasche helped organize the sale, which ran Monday–Thursday. She said much of the small merchandise in the building was taken: holiday decorations, tableware. Everything else, including several larger pieces of furniture, was left for the new owner. “Some were sad to see it go,” Rasche said. “I’m sad to see it go as our community center.” But she expressed confidence that the new owner would improve the building, which has seen deferred maintenance stack up. McMurren has said he would continue to keep the building in operation as an event center open to local use. Princeton City Council has suggested that it could use revenue from the sale of the building to construct a new community center by the Woomert Park ballfield.  

Hall celebrates 50 years with Scott County

Once, during a hotel inspection, Jackie Hall found something she wasn’t expecting to see: chickens clucking inside the building. They hadn’t exactly booked a room. It wasn’t the only unusual situation she had encountered. Years ago, she also found a horse living in a home basement. Not quite a typical household pet. Hall marked five decades as an environmental health specialist with the Scott County Health Department. She began her career in 1976, the first woman hired for her role. “When I started, we had a much smaller staff,” Hall said. Hall’s job is to help protect public health in Scott County by inspecting swimming pools, tattoo parlors and tanning salons while investigating nuisance complaints and responding to unexpected situations. “There is quite a lot of variety,” she said. “You never know what you’re going to get, what questions are going to come up or what you’re going to be asked to do.” Over the past five decades, Hall has watched both public health and the department evolve. Early in her career, much of the work relied on paper records, and professional training opportunities were more limited. “We had a lot of papers to shuffle,” she recalled. She said the pace of environmental health has also accelerated as science has advanced, particularly in disease detection and awareness of emerging public health concerns. Despite the changes, Hall said the variety of the job has kept her motivated. “There is always something new to learn, something challenging or interesting,” she said. “A lot of things are the same, but with the evolution of science there are newly emerging public health issues.” Hall said some of the greatest challenges are helping residents who are desperate for solutions but may not know which agency can address their concerns. “A lot of time residents don’t have a good grasp of available resources,” she said. “I find myself having to ask, ‘What is it the health department can help you with?’” Hall said misconceptions about health inspectors have also changed over the years. While inspections can seem intimidating, she believes education is the most important part of her job. “It is a lot easier to sell the health code when you are able to explain why this is a requirement,” she said. “The best part of the job is educating people.” Looking back on her work, Hall said she is most proud of spending 50 years serving public health, even if the impact of the work is sometimes difficult to measure. “It’s hard. Like, with swimming pools our intent is to make swimming safer and how do you measure swimming is safer?” she wondered. For those considering a career in environmental health, Hall encourages staying informed about current public health issues and recognizing the connection between healthcare and public health. “I encourage people to go into public health because it is fascinating,” she said. “It’s interesting, sometimes exciting, sometimes frustrating. Mostly fun. It’s an adventure.” Hall said her feelings about the job haven’t changed, even after half a century. “It’s a great job,” she said. “It’s a great place to work.”

4-H apple pie contest at hog show break Saturday

All 4-H members are encouraged to compete in the Scott County Pork Producers annual apple pie contest at the Mississippi Valley Fair. Entrants are to bring their pies to Keppy Hall on Saturday, Aug. 8, before 9 a.m. It is not necessary to pre-register to participate. Please attach your name and recipe to pie tin and refer to rules as listed in the fair book on page 152. The pies will be auctioned off at the noon break of the 4-H Hog Show and profits from the sale will go towards the Scott County 4-H program. If you have questions, please call Angie Ehlers at (563) 529-0325.    

Clay Walker, August 14

With his most recent album Texas to Tennessee hailed by Album of the Year as “a fun, lighthearted, and breezy country-pop project from one of neotraditional country's most underrated '90s artists,” the chart-topping Texan Clay Walker brings his "Doin' What I Love Tour 2026" to Davenport's Rhythm City Casino Resort Event Center on August 14, the artist having debuted six chart-topping hits and a dozen acclaimed studio albums over a career of more than three decades.

Neighbors: speed bump solves little

A speed hump installed on Dammann Drive in Eldridge to address speeding concerns has not slowed traffic, according to several residents who live near the project. The city installed a temporary speed hump on the 400 block of Dammann Drive last fall after identifying the area as a speeding hotspot. The city budgeted $9,500 for the project before accepting an $11,500 bid from N.J. Miller Inc. of Bettendorf on June 1, the lowest of two bids received. The permanent speed hump was installed on the 300 block of Dammann Drive, near the intersection with West Donahue Court. City Administrator Nevada Lemke said Police Chief Andrew Lellig had received communication from a resident who was concerned the proposed location on the 400 block would not effectively address speeding in the area. That concern prompted the city to move the project to its current location. Despite the relocation, residents said the project has not achieved its intended goal. The permanent hump has a flat, table-like top with shallow approaches rather than a sharply raised profile. Steve Mohr, who lives near the hump, said drivers continue to travel through the area without slowing down. “And you won’t” see cars slow down, he said. Mohr said that a patrol car sitting in West Donahue Court would do more good. Teresa Hulslander, another resident, said drivers continue to move through the area at speed. “Every car speeds around the corner from 9th street,” she said. Hulslander said she did not believe the permanent hump was worth its cost. “I just think $11,500 could have been spent a little wiser,” she said. Mohr and Hulslander both said the temporary speed hump previously placed on the 400 block was more effective at slowing vehicles. Resident Ali Bolin said the speed hump’s accompanying sign may provide a warning to drivers but does not appear to make them slow down. “I think the sign helps. The sign is a visual cue that something is ahead,” Bolin said. “In my observations, the speed hump alone is not slowing traffic down.” Bolin also questioned why the city does not use a standard size for speed humps. “If you go on Pinehurst, they are very large, and I don’t understand why they didn’t do that here,” she said. Bolin said she appreciated the city’s effort to address speeding but questioned whether the current installation was worth the cost. “You can sit out here and see that people don’t brake,” she said.  

Environmental group could intervene on CIPCO plant

The Environmental Law and Policy Center, an advocacy group with offices throughout the Midwest, has joined the list of local organizations intervening in state proceedings that could see a power plant built in rural Scott County. Central Iowa Power Cooperative has asked the Iowa Utilities Commission to greenlight construction of a 240 MW natural gas power plant outside Maysville, over objections from the county board of supervisors and project neighbors. CIPCO will defend their request at a November 17 hearing. Interveners may oppose or support the request.  Josh Mandelbaum, attorney with the ELPC’s Des Moines office, told The North Scott Press that the organization regularly intervenes in utility projects before the IUC. Intervening allows the ELPC to participate in discovery of documents related to utility development across the state, he explained—a key interest of the ELPC. “We’re an organization that cares about access to energy,” he said. “Clean energy—wind, solar, storage.” Mandelbaum said that the ELPC had “not taken a position at this time” with respect to CIPCO’s planned Scott County plant. “We clearly have some concerns. We want to be able to review the application in whole…. We want to understand CIPCO’s position and support for this project,” Mandelbaum explained. “Generally we have concerns that there’s this rush to gas in the state,” he added. “There’s a lot of new gas that is pending that, if it becomes unnecessary, customers are going to be on the hook for this really expensive generation.” The ELPC “wants to ensure a clean energy transition that uses a diverse deployment of renewable energy and storage technologies to rapidly phase out continued fossil fuel use,” the organization’s July 23 filing with the IUC reports. “As an organization concerned about the larger policy framework to transition to clean energy, support energy efficiency, expand renewable energy, and protect natural resources, air quality and water quality, the interests of ELPC will not be adequately represented by any other party participating in this case,” the filing continues. Mandelbaum said ELPC offices had been contacted by local residents who were “looking for representation” at the November hearing. The ELPC declined to represent those residents, he said, and will instead represent its own interests. He did note that there was “significant resident concern with the health and environmental impacts of a facility like this.” CIPCO asked the IUC to deny the ELPC’s petition to intervene. “Generally, intervenor status is not granted based solely on a broad or general concern about public policy,” CIPCO attorneys wrote July 29. “Intervention should be denied when the petitioning party merely raises a general interest or general concerns that will be adequately represented by other parties,” they continued. Mandelbaum said that the ELPC expected to have its petition granted.  Other groups file The Scott County Board of Supervisors filed to intervene Tuesday, July 28, represented by Kristina Lyon of the County Attorney’s Office. “Because of the potential impact on the County’s land use and the relationship to its zoning ordinances, the residents of the County have unique and important interests in this proceeding that are best represented by the Scott County Board of Supervisors,” the filing reads. The Concerned Citizens of Scott County, a local group opposed to the plant, filed to intervene July 22. “The proposed facility would have a significant impact on the rural character, architectural make-up, and natural environment of rural Scott County,” the Concerned Citizens’ filing argues. The group “was organized to protect and preserve” that rural character, it states.  CIPCO protested the Concerned Citizens’ filing to intervene. The IUC had already granted intervenor status to Jerry Mohr of rural Eldridge, who is also listed as the director of the Concerned Citizens on incorporation papers filed with the state of Iowa. “The prospective intervenor should be required to demonstrate how its interest will not be represented by the individual intervention of Mr. Jerome Mohr or perhaps Mr. Mohr should be required to withdraw his individual intervention as a condition of granting intervention to the entity he has apparently caused to be formed,” CIPCO attorneys wrote. Attorneys also argued that the Concerned Citizens should be asked to “demonstrate how its interest is not already protected by the participation of the County” in November hearings.      

Redstone Room Opening Night with Robert Randolph, August 20

With its special August 20 event celebrating the opening of Common Chord's new Redstone Room facility, the Davenport venue's staffers are proud to host the area return of River Roots Live favorite Robert Randolph, his electrifying blend of gospel and blues signaling the return of a space that has helped shape the Quad Cities music scene for decades.

“Bluegrass on the Grass”: Railroad Earth and Yonder Mountain String Band, August 16

Transforming its gardens into one of the region's most memorable concert experiences, Rock Island's Quad City Botanical Center will host a special "Bluegrass on the Grass" music event on August 16, allowing guests, as surrounded by blooms, trees, and fellow music lovers, to experience an unforgettable night with the artists of Railroad Earth and Yonder Mountain String Band.

I-ROCK 93.5: “7 Freakin' Years of Hard Rock,” August 20

Celebrating, per the event title, 7 Freakin' Years of Hard Rock, radio station I-ROCK 93.5 brings its annual anniversary party back to Eat Moline venue The Rust Belt on August 20, this year's entertainers boasting the hard-driving talents of Eva Under Fire, Alborn, Autumn Kings, and Left on Red.

Aqua Palooza brings new fun to Rock Falls River Chase

Rock Falls is introducing a new family-friendly celebration to its Rock Falls River Chase. Rock Falls Tourism announced the inaugural Aqua Palooza, a new two-day, family-friendly summer celebration on August 15 – 16 throughout Rock Falls. The celebration will be held in conjunction with the Rock Falls River Chase, featuring boat races, live music, fishing, [...]

Auto theft program continued

Last week, supervisors renewed the county’s contract for a restorative justice program that addresses auto theft. Jeremy Kaiser, director of Scott County’s Youth Justice and Rehabilitation Center, said the program organizes meetings between victim and offender, and allows the offender to complete a three-month remediation plan to have charges dismissed. The county instituted the progra when local auto thefts peaked in 2018–19. Many of the thefts were committed by first-time and juvenile offenders. Of 140 referrals since the program began in April 2019, 69 have been completed successfully, with four more on track for completion, Kaiser reported. And 86% of offenders who complete the program avoided charges for the following year.  The Iowa Judicial Branch reimburses the county up to $50,000 of program costs. Kaiser said that number covers all annual expenses. The program helps lighten the county attorney and courts’ workload, he noted. Supervisors unanimously praised the program and approved it Thursday, July 30. Supervisor Ken Beck called it a “very good program,” and Board Chair John Maxwell said it was “a game changer in my eyes.” Supervisor Maria Bribrieco said she had volunteered with the program. She called it “wonderful” and “very effective.” County PRIDE The county held its quarterly PRIDE celebration—rewarding professionalism, responsiveness, involvement, dedication, and excellence among employees—Tuesday, July 28. Jennifer Stout, a nurse at the county jail, was named county employee of the quarter. “Jennifer collaborates effortlessly with custody staff, mental health providers, and fellow nurses, always prioritizing the well-being of the individuals we serve,” Health Department Director Amy Thoreson said. Thoreson said Stout had volunteered to assist cleanup in the cell of a intellectually disabled prisoner who had “smeared feces throughout his cell.” “She put on a jumpsuit, gathered washcloths and towels, and personally assisted in cleaning the inmate with patience, gentleness, and extraordinary compassion,” Thoreson said. “I enjoy the team that I work with, and I love coming to work every day,” Stout said. Maxwell also recognized several employees who had received positive feedback from members of the public: Ben Enlow, Cheyenne Carroll, and Becca Williams. Maxwell also congratulated employees who reached milestone anniversaries with the county: Five years Lewis Fairs, Treasurer’s Office Nichole Gimm, Sheriff’s Office Justin Holmes, Sheriff’s Office Roger Mastin, Secondary Roads Dalton Stout, Medic EMS Bryse Sunderlin, Sheriff’s Office Kerri Tompkins, County Auditor Matthew Weiman, Secondary Roads Kasey Wieland, Medic EMS Eric Jr. Williams, Sheriff’s Office Ten years Brady Floyd, Medic EMS Kyle Jager, Sheriff’s Office Kareena Long, Treasurer’s Office Paul Pridemore, Sheriff’s Office Anna Reynolds, Medic EMS Kyle Smith, Medic EMS Fifteen years Devin Reeves, Sheriff’s Office Jeff Somers, Sheriff’s Office Twenty years Bill Hyde, Sheriff’s Office Leslie Ronnebeck, Health Department Twenty-five years David Anderson, Medic EMS Pam Brown, Sheriff’s Office Daniel Collins, Medic EMS Ryan Crispin, Medic EMS Matt Hirst, IT Director Rob Pearce, Sheriff’s Office Pam Robertson, Sheriff’s Office David Rogis, Medic EMS Fifty years Mary “Jackie” Hall, Health Department Other business In other news, supervisors: • Entered a joint agreement to share medical examiner services in event of an emergency or temporary lapse in local service. • Approved minor updates to county human resources and administrative policies. • Approved routine tax credits and homestead tax exemptions.    

Mayor’s letter details fire transition, recent steps

A July 31 letter from Eldridge Mayor Scott Campbell detailed eight steps the city has taken or will soon take as it builds a city-run fire department. Eldridge City Council voted July 20 to transition fire services to a city-run entity by Oct. 1. Campbell wrote July 31 that he had sent individual letters to each member of the fire department, asking them to meet with him and Council Member Ryan Iossi, either as a group or individually, to discuss the path moving forward. He said he will assemble a transition team “in the very near future.” City staff have reached out to mutual aid partners, “making them aware of our tenuous situation and solidifying their support in case of emergencies.” Campbell said he and city staff also met with Davenport fire and city officials, and that the lines of communication remain open. Meetings have also taken place with Scott County officials and Medic EMS. Campbell and City Administrator Nevada Lemke also met last week with the city administrator and fire chief in DeWitt to learn more about how that department is run. City officials have previously cited DeWitt as a model for the type of hybrid department they would like to see—service by a volunteer corps, while the city owns the apparatus and oversees the budget. On Monday evening, the council took steps on two further other transition items. They held first reading of the ordinance to establish and organize a city fire department. Three readings are required. The council also approved a timeline for hiring a new, full-time fire chief. The city will begin advertising the position this week, with an application deadline of Aug. 23. According to the timeline, interviews will take place the week of Aug. 31, in the hope of selecting a candidate for approval by the council by early September. Council Member Brian Dockery voted against the ordinance to define and establish the department. According to the job posting approved by the council Monday, the chief position is described as “a unique opportunity to guide the formation of the City’s newly established hybrid department and shape the future of fire and emergency services for one of Iowa’s fastest-growing communities.” The advertised salary range is $85,000 to $95,000 annually. A four-year degree in fire science or a related field or Emergency Medical Operations is preferred, although candidates with an associate’s degree and more than five years’ experience as a full-time firefighter will also be considered. A minimum of 10 years’ related fire and EMS-related service is also required, with a minimum of five years’ experience as a fire officer with Incident Command experience.  The complete job description will be posted on the city’s website. As part of the city’s fire chief hiring procedures, a list of initial priorities for the first 30 days of employment was also established. These include: • Coordinating recruitment of firefighters and command staff. • Developing the organizational structure for the department. • Coordinating the transfer of assets, equipment, records and emergency response systems and evaluating existing apparatus, equipment and facilities. • Establishing 28E agreements with the county/Benefitted Fire District No. 3 to provide fire protection services and with regional public safety agencies to provide mutual aid. • Working with mutual aid partners and Scott County dispatch. • Preparing a proposed operating and capital line-item budget detail for the FY27 total approved budget of $484,406. • Finalizing standard operating guidelines and policies. • Establishing training requirements and operational readiness plans. In his statement, Campbell emphasized the importance of the existing volunteers. “The city council’s action on July 20 in no way demeans the service and contributions the volunteer firefighters provide our community,” he wrote.  “We are fortunate to have them protecting us night and day, and their service is exemplary. Under the city’s oversight, the fire department would still be able to serve their community as volunteers and would still be paid $20 per call. The main difference is that they would be serving under a fire chief hired by the city, and the city would oversee the budget.” Campbell also asked for “patience and trust” from residents as the city works through the transition. “As I stated in my recent letter to the fire department, no matter how far apart we may seem to be, or how much hurt has been caused on both sides, we owe it to our residents and community to find a solution that serves everybody’s best interests, including the fire department, the city, and most importantly, the citizens we serve. You, the residents, deserve our best efforts to create a path forward,” he wrote.    

Scott County Democrats to hold candidate listening sessions

The Democratic candidates running for Scott County Board of Supervisors, County Recorder, and County Treasurer are holding a series of listening sessions on the following dates, times, and places: • Thursday, Aug. 27, Walcott Public Library, 6–8 p.m. • Thursday, Sept. 10, Princeton Public Library, 5–6:45 p.m. • Thursday, Sept. 17, Eldridge Public Library, 6–7:45 p.m. • Thursday, Sept. 24, Buffalo Community Center, 6–8 p.m. • Thursday, Oct. 1, Donahue Fire Department, 6–8 p.m. • Thursday, Oct. 8, LeClaire Public Library, 6-8 p.m. “These listening sessions are free and open to the public,” said Kay Pence, chair of the Scott County Democratic Party. “The candidates want to hear directly from their future constituents what is on their minds and how they can address their concerns,” said Pence. “These are non-partisan listening sessions. Everyone is welcome irrespective of what party they belong to or don’t belong to,” said Pence. The candidates in attendance will be Tim Carr, Stephen Doerscher and Kevin Randle for Scott County Board of Supervisors; Toby Paone for Scott County Recorder; and Samuel Samara for Scott County Treasurer. The election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, with early voting starting on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

Over objections, city council moves forward on fire transition

The Eldridge City Council Monday voted to move forward with ordinances establishing and defining a city-run fire department, over the objection of multiple members of the public and one council member. The council voted 4-1 to approve the first reading of an ordinance “Establishing a Fire Department,” and an ordinance “Adding Fire Chief and Title B Name to Public Safety.” This second ordinance names the fire chief as a department head. Council member Brian Dockery voted against the first readings, although he did vote in favor of a third item, authorizing the fire chief recruitment selection process and job posting. Dockery said he would prefer to table the ordinances for at least one meeting. Prior to the votes, the council heard more than a half hour of public comment, primarily from members of the public expressing concerns about the path forward. Suzanne Gainer, wife of Eldridge firefighter Pat Gainer, addressed the loss of trust from the department, saying the council has used “different standards of accountability compared to what they require of others,” and is “playing games rather than acting in a straightforward manner, and voting recklessly in spending taxpayer money.” She also expressed concerns as a taxpayer that financial plans for a city-run department have not been comprehensively laid out. Resident Roy Leonard called the council’s July 20 vote “a slap in the face to the people that have worked hard and given their time. It also slapped the face of the citizens of Eldridge.” Judith Gilbert, who has spoken at several previous meetings, addressed concerns with the language of the ordinance establishing the fire department, saying that although the ordinance defines fire protection, there is no mention of EMS services. Mindy Martinek, wife of firefighter Tim Martinek, also criticized the city’s assertion that it will rely on mutual aid agreements. “It’s great that you reached out to our neighboring communities, but let me make myself clear, and on behalf of our community: Mutual aid is not a solution at all.” She said response times would increase and the city needs a better plan. She also said that residents have not received a satisfactory answer on what the financial impacts of a city-run department will be. Richard Coy expressed concerns about the Oct. 1 deadline. He spoke after firefighter Bryan Yanke announced all 20 members of the Eldridge Volunteer Fire Company will resign, effective Oct. 1 (see separate story). Coy said it would not be possible to fully train a brand-new fire department in less than eight weeks. He also said relying on mutual aid would be unfair to neighboring communities who need to protect their own residents first. Terry Jurisic expressed frustration with the EVFC’s announcement that they would resign. “What bothers me the most is the Eldridge Fire Department. They have done a great job up to what they’re saying now, that they’re all just going to walk away. To me, that just doesn’t sound like they’re as dedicated to the City of Eldridge and our residents as they say they are.” Members of the fire department shouted Jurisic down until mayor Scott Campbell gaveled back to order. Ward Jones previously lived in a community that transitioned from an all-volunteer department to a hybrid department. He served as a volunteer and had seen some of the growing pains associated with that transition. He suggested that a longer transition timeline could help with some of the issues facing the council. He also suggested an arbitrator or a mediator be brought in to remove some of the emotion from the process. Dockery asks to table As the council moved towards voting later in the meeting, Dockery asked if the council would consider tabling the ordinances for at least one meeting. He said he would not necessarily object to moving forward with the timeline for hiring a chief. Campbell said the problem with tabling was the Oct. 1 deadline and the news that all fire volunteers will resign that day. “They have given us an ultimatum. They have told us Oct. 1, they are all done. And when I’m looking at the timeline, I’m not sure how (tabling) works.” Dockery said there were still a lot of unanswered questions for him, including the make-up of the hiring committee for the chief. He said he also hadn’t gotten a full report on what Campbell and city administrator Nevada Lemke learned when they visited with officials in DeWitt about a hybrid fire department, and there was no information before the council about how much it might cost for Davenport to provide mutual aid. Dockery met with resistance from his fellow council members. “Brian, to your point, they all said they’re leaving Oct. 1,” said Ryan Iossi. “We can’t pump the brakes now. That’s putting our citizens at risk.” Iossi said the only option was to move forward. “I don’t question anyone’s desire to find a better outcome,” said Jeff Ashcraft, who participated via telephone. “I just haven’t heard anything that changes the facts or the options that we’ve been presented. We didn’t set the deadline. The deadline was set for us. I hoped we would never have to be put up against that deadline. But the fact of the matter is … we’ve got 60 days to figure this out. Pushing pause doesn’t gain us anything new.” Ashcraft said that some issues are still being worked out and he was concerned tabling could slow some of this work down. Adrian Blackwell said, while he didn’t necessarily think it was time to push the brakes, he did want to see more input from the fire department and the community. Iossi reiterated the need to keep moving forward. “We need to quit talking about yesterday. It’s time to pass these ordinances, get a group together, and move forward. The clock is ticking.” Dockery said it would be a show of good faith to table and revisit some of the language in the ordinances. Blackwell said it might also be necessary to make some adjustments to the deadline. Campbell asked city attorney Allison Wright for her opinion. She said her recommendation would be to move forward with voting on the ordinances, and that voting would not preclude further discussion. “I would absolutely encourage further discussions on both sides, but I am hard pressed to recommend the city to take any steps back,” she said. Hiring timeline approved While Dockery voted against the first reading of both ordinances, he did support the hiring timeline for the new chief. However, he also said he wanted to ensure there was input from the volunteers in the process. He said if the hiring committee was five people, for instance, he would like to see at least two members be fire volunteers. He also suggested a member of the public be involved, although Campbell said that would have to be discussed as the process moved forward. Ashcraft also asked if there would be a rubric for the hiring process and Campbell confirmed. Just before the vote, Iossi made an appeal to the members of the EVFC in the audience. “I want you guys to just take this away tonight: None of you guys would walk down the street and pass someone who needs help. None of you would walk past a house burning down and not stop and help. That’s what’s in you. “So, I just want you guys to think about that over the next month or two months. But short term, think how important it is that you guys get involved in the hiring of this team. Because if we don’t have your input, you’re never going to be able to change that,” Iossi continued. After the vote, Campbell asked Lemke if the job will be posted within the week, which she confirmed. He also asked for the fire department to give the council the names of four candidates to be on the hiring committee, of whom two would be chosen. Following the meeting, Campbell reiterated the need to keep moving forward with the process. “We have to, just to protect ourselves, because they’ve given us a deadline of Oct. 1, and if we delay, that window shrinks.” He said he did not believe the search for a chief would be made more difficult by the EVFC’s decision to resign en masse effective Oct. 1. “They’re on the department because they want to serve — I was on the department because I wanted to serve, Ryan served — I’m hoping that hopefully they feel the same way,” said Campbell. “Our hope is that we get a chief, and that he can convince the volunteers to stay. That he’s a man that they can rally around, or a woman that they can rally around and support. That’s why we’ve given them a seat at the table.” Noah Glasgow contributed reporting.          

Independents vow to listen to community concerns

Brendan O’Brien just completed RAGBRAI. He said as he made his way across the state, he saw small towns shrinking and struggling. Community concerns have formed the backbone of the independent campaign for Scott County Board of Supervisors he’s running with Wendy Walljasper. The pair formed the Scott County Neighbors’ Campaign, which they describe as a reimagining of what politics can be. A purpose statement on the campaign’s Facebook page said they envision politics “not driven by money and individual representatives, but instead by the collective concerns and efforts of neighbors.” Walljasper and O’Brien brought the campaign to Eldridge last Saturday during a gathering at the Scott County Library. And they said their work is more than just about what happens after the November election. “Our biggest goal is that, on the journey to November, we get people out and talking to their neighbors and figuring out what problems our community is facing and what can we do about it right now,” said Walljasper. “Instead of just saying. ‘Oh, thank you for those concerns. I’ll fix that in November.’ Our philosophy is, OK, those are concerns. Can we do anything right now? Maybe we can’t fix it, but I bet we can do something.” The Eldridge event is one of several assemblies Walljasper and O’Brien have held where they’ve discussed concerns with Scott County residents. Walljasper said one of the biggest issues they’ve heard about is food insecurity in the area. To that end, they brought Taelor Denton, hunger relief coordinator for Churches United of the Quad City Area, to one of their assemblies to discuss ways to help, including accessibility options, like food reclamation programs involving restaurants and grocery stores. At that assembly, attendees discussed options for reaching out to churches to create community giving gardens. While previous assemblies have been held in Davenport, O’Brien and Walljasper are working their way into the county to learn more about concerns in smaller communities “The Board of Supervisors really has a role in smaller towns,” explained O’Brien. “Anything that gets left to its own devices, in the open. Davenport can kind of cover itself, but the Board of Supervisors really can make a regional plan and connect the dots.” “And that’s why Brendan and I both were interested in looking at the county level instead of an alderman or a state position,” said Walljasper. “I think that the county level is perfect to try to see where there are gaps and fill those in without getting so high level. There’s no way at the state level you can really understand what 99 counties are doing, right? It’s a fairly diverse state in terms of needs from one end to the other.” Walljasper said she and O’Brien like to begin discussions by talking about what attendees love about Scott County, as well as their concerns. One of the concerns brought up at Eldridge’s assembly was residents not having much say in the decisions elected officials make. “There’s a lot of threats, people that operate in the background, and they are large entities that kind of take control of the process of how we get our food, where we get our energy, how decisions get made,” said O’Brien. He said the campaign was supportive of people being in more control of how they have their needs met at the local level. Walljasper paused for a moment as she wrote out a list of concerns on a piece of paper taped to the wall. “I think the bigger issue with some of this stuff is … people feel like decisions are being made – you know, are we turning a street into a one-way that everyone is used to driving as a two-way. People did not get any input. Everybody knows about the Humane Society of Scott County. And now, all of the sudden, Davenport says they’re spending too much money, so they’re going to do it themselves. I, as a resident, was not consulted on that topic.”    She said one of the other issues that has frequently come up at assemblies is a concern about the loss of institutions. As people continue to struggle to meet basic needs, non-profit organizations have sprung up to try to assist. But Walljasper said there’s a slightly haphazard nature to this when the attempts spring up organically. “A lot of people recognize that the way decisions have been made is not working at various levels of government, and they’re kind of taking matters into their own hands,” added O’Brien. “When we’ve had this coordinated approach and suddenly the bottom drops out, it doesn’t just get replaced from all these small things.” Having worked in the non-profit sector, Walljasper said she has seen this and has had friends also tell her about their experiences. This includes healthcare professionals learning more about issues that will arise with changes to Medicare, social workers who are learning about increased waitlists for programs like Meals on Wheels, and changes to programs offered by Housing and Urban Development. “There’s all these things that, if you’re not in the middle of it, you don’t really see it happening. But if you zoom out, you see our health system, our housing system, our schools, all of these places, things look very different than they did five or six years ago, let alone 20 years ago when I first started doing this work. “There’s almost like an institutional decline,” Walljasper continued. “The institutions that we relied on to take care of some of these things are struggling more and more every year. The non-profits are getting less in government funding, and what they are getting is getting more and more restricted … So, less and less government funding, more strings attached to the government funding, and then local charities, like we have the wonderful Community Foundation and those kinds of places, that do a lot of supplemental funding, but they can’t keep up. The amount of local funding has stayed kind of steady or even decreased for a lot of non-profits. And so, I really worry, between the public stuff and the non-profit stuff, if both of those are declining at the same time, how are people going to get their needs met in the next few years?” O’Brien said the decline of the social safety net can also breed a sense of individualism. “If you are not dependent on those services directly, everything seems fine. And you start looking at people who are struggling. When it comes to people being unhoused, there’s a lot of judgement – like, why can’t they meet their needs? But people might not be seeing that institutional decline, failures of systems that people were dependent on.” Walljasper said that was potentially another goal of the Neighbors’ Campaign – to get people to be able to rely on one another rather than institutions. She said one person running a non-profit might run out of steam, but having a community of people behind them could make that endeavor more sustainable. “That was kind of the theory behind the Neighbors’ Campaign, which we want to be bigger than either of our political campaigns. Obviously, I want to win, but we also want to create this group of people where, if SNAP benefits get cut again, we have a whole group of people that can call each other, email each other and say, how can we work together in our little areas to do something?” The Scott County Neighbors’ Campaign has an active Facebook presence, where members can share ideas and converse with one another. Walljasper and O’Brien are also planning more community events, including a potluck party at Sister Concetta Park in Davenport on Aug. 15 at 11:30 a.m., and a meet and greet at Miss Effie’s in Donahue at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 19.  

Blue Grass Legion names essay winners

Blue Grass American Legion participated in both the Blue Grass and Buffalo Elementary Schools’ 5th Grade Award Celebration/Ceremonies on May 29, presenting the American Legion’s Fifth Grade Flag Essay Contest awards and certificates to all the participants. The 5th Grade Flag Essay Contest consists of a one-page, double spaced, no more than 300 words, 12 pitch-type written, original effort of the student titled, “WHAT THE FLAG MEANS TO ME.” The essays are judged on four topics: Originality, Logic, Facts/Comprehension and Grammar /Spelling. Blue Grass Legion Fifth Grade Flag Essay winners from Blue Grass Elementary School: First place and third  place at 2nd District went to Joseph Van Fleet, son of Aron and Jennifer Van Fleet. He received a gold medal and ribbon, 1st place certificate and a gift card of $75. Second place went to Kierston Soliz, daughter of Keri and Stephen Soliz, who received a silver medal and ribbon, 2nd place certificate and a gift card of $50.  The 3rd place winner was Dahlia Deppe, daughter of Natalie and Brandon Wells, who received a 3rd place bronze medal and ribbon, 3rd place certificate, and a gift card of $25.  The remainder of the students also received a Certificate of Participation. Fifth grade teachers Mrs. Carrie Patterson, Mrs. Sara Engstler and Mrs. Natalee Marth were presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their participation with the program and tutoring the students. Principal Sara Gott was also presented with a Certificate of Appreciation for her support of the program. Blue Grass Legion Fifth Grade Flag Essay winners from Buffalo Elementary School: First place went to Sawyer Dieerling, who received a gold medal and ribbon; 1st place certificate and a gift card of $75.  Second place went to Lorenzo Pavano, who received a silver medal and Ribbon, 2nd place certificate and a gift card of $50. The 3rd place winner was Asher Cook,  who received a 3rd place bronze medal and ribbon, 3rd place certificate and a gift card of $25. Buffalo School had a total of 44 students participate. The remainder of the students also received a Certificate of Participation. Fifth grade teachers were presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their participation with the program and tutoring the students. Principal Heidi Gilliand was also presented with a Certificate of Appreciation for her support of the program.  

McCausland blood drive a success

On July 7, the blood was flowing in McCausland. Thirty-six donors showed up to donate, and 43 pints were collected. Donors were: Craig Bauer, Mike Belk, Jodi Bemrich, Mike Carstensen, Tom Claussen, Kimberly Conrad, Dexter Hamann, Roger Hess, Kerri Hurning, Laurie Judge, Grace Knapper, Walt Knapper, Lee Lensch, Kent Long, Megan Louck, Patrick Maloney, Eric Marshall, Bob Merten, Jolayne Milefchik, Kristel Nebinger, Loren Neimann, Michelle Robbins, Scott Robbins, Wayne Schneckloth, Linda Schoonover, Clayton Schroder, Deena Schroder, Toby Schroder, Steve Scull, Sofia Simons, Josephine Srp, Anita Stockman, Don Stroud, Ken Sutter, Aaron Tuttle, Tony Vaughn, Danielle Whitcanack, Jon Yocum and Keith Youngers.

Record heat and dewpoints recorded across Iowa

July ended with hot temperatures and record high dew point temperatures, according to a weekly weather report from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. While the temperatures were warm and parts of the state could use some rain as of the July 27 through Aug. 2 reporting period, Iowa’s crops continue to progress closely to the average pace as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. According to State Climatologist Justin Glisan, Iowa had slightly above average rainfall for the week, with a statewide average of 1.31 inch, while the normal is nine-tenths of an inch. The eastern half of the state received heavy rain during the period, with areas logging accumulation totals between 1.5 inches and 8 inches for the week. Glisan reported that temperatures tapered off late in the week, despite sitting in the “unseasonably warm” category for most of the reporting period. According to Glisan, the average temperature statewide was 76.6 degrees Fahrenheit, which is 3.6 degrees above the normal. Per the weather report, “numerous” Iowa airports logged record dew-point temperatures July 26. Burlington Municipal Airport in Des Moines County recorded a dew point temperature of 85 degrees and a high temperature of 92 degrees, making for a heat index of 121 degrees. A weather station in Little Sioux logged the highest air temperature for the week at 102 degrees, which Glisan said was also the warmest temperature recorded in the state this year. The temperatures might have made it sweaty out in the field, but farmers had 5.7 days suitable for field work during the reporting period, according to USDA’s crop progress and condition report. All but 7% of Iowa’s corn acres reached the silking stage by the end of the reporting period, which is 2 percentage points ahead of the year prior and the five-year average. Four percent of corn acres reached the dent stage in Iowa, which is half of the amount from the year prior, but just 2 percentage points behind the five-year average. Corn acres in the dough stage continued to sit slightly behind the 2025 crop’s pace and slightly ahead of the five-year average with 48% of the crop in the dough stage as of Sunday. Corn condition rated 80% good to excellent and soybean condition was 78% good to excellent for the reporting period. Nearly 90% of soybeans acres are blooming in Iowa, putting the crop on pace with the 2025 soybean crop. Just over 60% of soybean acres were setting pods as of the reporting period. At 61%, the crop is 2 percentage points behind last year and the average. The majority of oat acres — 87% — have been harvested, according to the report, which rated the crop as 82% good to excellent. Abnormally dry conditions increased from 36% of the state the week prior to 46% of the state in the most recent weekly report from the U.S. Drought Monitor. Most of the dry conditions, including 22% of the state in moderate drought conditions, are on the western side of the state. Sixty percent of topsoil was rated as having adequate moisture and 25% of topsoil moisture was rated as short for the period. Subsoil moisture rated 58% adequate and 27% short. According to 30-day maps from the state, most of Iowa accumulated less rain than what is typical in July, though parts of central and eastern Iowa received between 1 and 4 inches more than the normal. Average temperatures across the state were between 1 and 3 degrees warmer during July 2026 than the normal.

This Oklahoma tribe is revisiting its Iowa roots on a tour of ancestral sites

Members of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe are crossing the Midwest on a tour of ancestral sites. The 11-day journey brought them across Iowa and included a stop in Decorah, where they met with a researcher of the tribe’s native language.

What I've been watching this summer

I am an inveterate moviegoer. I once had an English teacher tell me that the best thing I wrote were a few spontaneous paragraphs on The Empire Strikes Back. I thought my essays on Raymond Carver and Flannery O’Connor had been pretty good. Guess not. In that spirit, a bundle of reflections on this summer’s movies. The new and the old.  The Odyssey. Matt Damon plays himself—who else?—in this retelling of Homer’s ancient poem. Hollywood darling Christopher Nolan directs Damon to flatten the trickster Odysseus into a guilt-ridden veteran more palatable to modern audiences. And it works. Damon is a font of charisma, and Nolan is a modern bard in complete control of his medium. That medium just happens to IMAX rather than dactylic hexameter. Perhaps other talents will turn their attention to old material. Disclosure Day. You can count on me to appreciate a Steven Spielberg picture, and Disclosure Day was no exception. The film finds Spielberg in familiar alien territory. Josh O’Connor and Emily Blunt star as a pair of civilians caught up in the machinations of a shadowy corporation with a closely guarded secret: aliens walk among us. Blunt is the standout—the most honest victim of a close encounter since, well, Close Encounters. And Spielberg still knows how to stage an action scene: a memorable train sequence reminds us that computer effects are best kept discrete, leaving human faces, not digital wizardry, to hold out attention. Close Encounters of the Third Kind. I prepared for Disclosure Day with a screening of Close Encounters on the rooftop of the Last Picture House in downtown Davenport. Here is a movie caught halfway between the blockbuster form Jaws had pioneered, and the New Hollywood cinema Spielberg obviously admired. Blue-collar characters wander through a story with little structure, while Francois Truffaut babbles in French through a range of esoteric locations.  And when the threads come together in the last twenty minutes—finally, aliens!—Spielberg opts for impressionism over neat narrative resolution. The music is as difficult to interpret as Marlon Brando at the end of Apocalypse Now, and a lot more compelling. The Mandalorian and Grogu. My girlfriend declined to join me for this viewing. I can’t blame her. I drove to the theater out of boredom and a sense that as a reasonably committed Star Wars fan, I owed the ticket to myself and my overlords at Disney. The unremarkable film was about… I’m struggling to remember. Hold on, I’m sure it’ll come to me. There must have been something memorable in these two hours of IMAX? Pedro Pascal, the action figure in the title role, wanders through a movie surely designed to sell merchandise. Director Dave Filoni replaces Star Wars’s mystical spirit with the mundanity of a Saturday morning cartoon. Only a score by Ludwig Göransson, who also scored The Odyssey, manages to stand out. Dazed and Confused. I caught this picture, one of my all-time favorites, at another rooftop screening at the Last Picture House. Richard Linklater directs a host of young stars, like Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck and Parker Posey, as teenagers on the first day of summer vacation, 1976. This high school movie has no plot and no protagonist, no outpourings of self-discovery or moving lectures for adult. Leave that to John Hughes. Linklater attends to humor and minor tragedies—the everyday stuff of teenage life. Every scene has an objective quality, as if you were the one holding the camera, cruising in the Low Rider, knowing every street, being the one to meet. Eddington. I thought Ari Aster was not my cup of tea. I had seen some of his horror hits and decided I could ignore his latest movie, Eddington, when it released last year. But lo, Eddington cannot be ignored. Joaquin Phoenix stars as a sheriff in rural New Mexico in the fiery spring of 2020. He is embattled in private by his conspiracist wife and mother-in-law, and in public by a mask-preaching mayor. (And that is before the Black Lives Matter protests begin.) Phoenix brings unusual pathos to the lead role, an ordinary man caught between the demands of social conformity imposed by lockdown and the racial justice protests, and the corrosive insanity of family members who see evil in every corner of public life. The movie is equal parts wry and violent, lonely and social—as close as you can get to our modern world. Farewell, Olivia On an unrelated note: this week The NSP bid a fond farewell to Olivia Donahue, our trusty summer intern. Over the last few weeks you got to know Olivia through her reporting, while the rest of us got to know her in person. She was funny, reliable, and eager to pitch in. Her last stories appear in this issue. We wish her all the best in Ames!        

2001: Volunteers help bring Eldridge skateboard park to life

Aug. 5, 1976 • Ed Parent of Buffalo and Richard Hengl of Princeton took top honors in the Scott County Cookout King Contest. Hengl won the showmanship contest and prepared barbequed pork chops. Parent was named the Cookout King with his marinated beef round cooked over charcoal. Both qualified for the Cookout King contest at the Iowa State Fair. • A group of Scott County 4-H members travelled to Washington, D.C., to attend a citizenship conference. They returned just in time for the start of the Mississippi Valley Fair, which was set to run Aug. 6-15. • A crew of volunteers helped pour concrete at the new McCausland city building. They included Clarence Louck, Bill Flenker, Warren Darland, Walter Knapper Jr., Cliff Piggott, Ken Mizauer, Lloyd Litscher, Bob McCaughey, Elmer Brehmer, Bernard Schoonover, Sonny Anderson, Jon Darland, JC Carsten, Don Morris, John Welch and Terry Carsten. • The North Scott FFA chapter placed first in the livestock judging contest in West Liberty. Team members were Marty Claeys, Dennis Claussen and Terry Behrens. Behrens also placed third in the individual competition, with Claussen placing seventh. This was the third year in a row a North Scott FFA team had won at the West Liberty contest. • The Donahue softball team won the championship of the Southern Wapsi Softball League tournament. Team members included Penny Marten, Dianne Boll, Chris Moore, Lisa Greve, Sherri Stoltenberg, Nancy Strohbehn, Gwen Moore, Debbie Gronewold, Mary Jo Gronewold, Christie Marten, Brenda Hamilton, Cathy Marten, Denise Boll, Kathy Kluever, Darcy Jones and Lisa Marten. They were coached by Kathy Jones. Aug. 6, 1986 • U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Richard Lyng was announced as the featured speaker at the Scott County Corn Growers’ first ever Corn Grower Expo, which would be held at the Karl Arp farm near Walcott. County president Harlan Meier said the event would be great for area farmers, and he was excited the ag secretary planned to speak. “We’re really pleased Lyng is coming,” he said. • The would be a contest for two three-year seats on the North Scott School Board, as incumbent Ned Mohr said he would run again. He would face off against newcomers Nancy Tyra and Jerry Vollbeer. Gene Schneckloth was running unopposed for a one-year seat on the board. • The Scott County Board of Supervisors rejected bids on the proposed secondary roads maintenance garage, which came in nearly half a million dollars over what was expected. “We were shooting for $1.7 million, and the bids came in considerably over budget,” said board chair Ed Winborn. “We’re back to the drawing board.” The architect said the increase in price was due to improved market conditions, which were driving up building costs. He said he would look at modifications to the plan to get the costs more in line with the budget and report back to the board within two weeks. • Juanita Hathaway won the sweepstakes award at the Sew and Show contest at the Mississippi Valley Fair, modeling three-piece suit made of cashmere Ultrasuede she purchased on a trip to Asia. She said making the suit herself led to considerable savings. The estimated retail price was $800-$1,000, while Hathaway was able to sew the garment herself for $175. • The North Scott “I” Club purchased a 1,190 lbs. steer owned by Brent Arp during the Mississippi Valley Fair Livestock Auction at a price of $61.50 per hundredweight. The meat would be donated to the University of Iowa football team. Arp was pictured with his steer and Hawkeye football player Myron Keppy. Aug. 8, 2001 • A group of volunteers worked alongside workers from Scott County Ready Mix to pour more than 100 yards of concrete for a new skateboarding park in Eldridge. A committee supporting the skatepark had been formed a year earlier, and members had sought input from local youth, including on design aspects. The land was donated by the public works department, and the city also helped match fundraising efforts. While the concrete was expected to be completed by the time school started, metal skateboarding equipment would be purchased in three stages, corresponding with skill level. • Several coaching changes were announced at North Scott. Lori Osterberg was hired as the new varsity softball coach, replacing the retiring Dennis Johnson. Meanwhile, the district was on the hunt for a new football coach, as Randy Schrader was hired as the new athletic director for the Davenport School District. • The North Scott softball team finished second at the state tournament. They defeated Sioux City North (6-5) and No. 1 ranked Dowling Catholic (1-0) before falling to Des Moines Lincoln in the championship game (1-0). With the win over Dowling, Dennis Johnson became only the seventh coach in Iowa high school softball history to record 1,000 wins. Anne Wylie, Allison Erichsen and Mindy Heidgerken were named to the all-tournament team. • Zeb Hubner was named first-team all-MAC for baseball. Mike Blavet, Michael Arensdorf and Matt Conklin were second team selections, and Brett Mandsager, Joe Arnold and Jason Arp were honorable mention. • Members of the Scott County 4-H County Council included Jana Hemphill, Bridget VanDenBerghe, Ross Grunwald, Mike Dierickx, Meghan Hermiston, Angie Jared, Sara Pethoud, Ashley Schwarz, Adrienne Hermiston, Rachel Murphy, Heather Berg, Emily Green, Lance Ehrecke, Heather Behrens, Joyce Ferry, Jody Dierickx, Nathan Geurink, Justin Speth, Trent Claussen, Dana Petersen, Natalie Miller, Meredith Miller and Dean Claussen. Aug. 10, 2011 • The ballot for North Scott School Board would be crowded in September, with eight candidates competing for four seats, including three incumbents, four first-time candidates and a former board member. Sue Cannon announced she would not seek reelection, but incumbents Paul Dierickx, Krista Long and Tim Lane filed their papers. So did first-time candidates Dennis Albertson, Dennis Kirby, Barb Kuhl, and John Maxwell, and former board member Joni Dittmer. • The North Scott School Board learned 60% of North Scott eighth graders were below grade level in reading comprehension in 2010, according to the Basic Reading Inventory. Curriculum director Sue Kane said primary grades were doing well, but comprehension started to dip at the intermediate level (grades 4-6), “where you start to go from learning to read to reading to learn. And when looking at the secondary curriculum, reading is not taught. It is assumed.” The data showed scores began to rebound by the time students reached high school. Kane acknowledged the numbers were not where the district wanted to be. • Thanks to efforts by council member Sue Motz, Dixon had a new storm siren warning system in place. Motz said that had been one of her goals when returning to serve on the council, and she wrote a grant to the Scott County Regional Authority for the funds. Previously, the town had relied on a small siren used by the fire department for all storm warnings, but the new siren would be able to be heard for miles around. Motz said the town’s next goal was to construct a new well. • Tor Hawley was named second team all-state for softball. Anna Boffeli was a third team selection and Dana Suiter was named honorable mention. • Giddian Kappeler showed the Grand Champion Market Beef steer at the Mississippi Valley Fair. He also received the Josh Arp Memorial Spirit Award at the Market Beef show. Aug. 4, 2021 • Central Scott Telephone was looking to expand its fiber footprint in the Park View and Long Grove, and was seeking up to $12 million in federal funding to bring fiber to rural Scott County homes and businesses. In February, the company announced plans to bring fiber to 2,200 Eldridge customers, and in July the company said it would include 1,500 homes and businesses in Long Grove and Park View. The grant it was seeking would cover fiber lines to just over 1,000 rural farms and homes in Scott and Clinton counties. • The Lucky Frog in McCausland was helping the Milestones Area Agency on Aging with the delivery of meals to elderly residents in the northeast portion of the county. Owner Jason Waldorf and members of his staff packed and delivered the lunches to 30 seniors and Waldorf said they were looking to expand. He also said he enjoyed building relationships with the customers. “We really connect with these people. The clients are like family now.” • Scott County supervisor Ken Croken held a series of forums highlighting his opposition to a new, 40-bed juvenile detention facility in the county. He said the county should be spending more money to reduce juvenile crime. The board had already voted 4-1 in favor of designing the $17 million center, and it was estimated it would cost about $2.5 million annually to run. “If we have $2.5 million to operate a detention center, we should find our way towards $2.5 million to obviate the need for detention,” Croken said. • Park View Lutheran Church was celebrating 18 years of its quilting ministry. The ministry began after church members Ken and Janice Thomsen learned about a church quilting group while they were snowbirding in Florida. Fellow congregation members Shirley Mirfield and Jo Miller visited the Thomsens, and Janice took them to a quilters meeting. Upon returning home, the PVLC ministry began in early 2003. Several members were also involved with Habitat for Humanity, and the ministry began sewing twin-sized quilts for children moving into these homes. They also made quilts for the homeless, patients at the VA Hospital in Iowa City, nursing home residents, crisis pregnancy centers, Share & Care Preschool graduates, and high school graduates. • Jack Gomez, an incoming North Scott freshman, was offered a spot to play in the John Deere Classic Pro-Am through First Tee of the Quad Cities. He was teamed up with PGA Tour professional Jason Bohn, who he out-drove on the eighth hole. Gomez was the first Quad Cities student ever to compete in the Pro-Am and joined First Tee when he was seven. “Golf is tough and it’s mental, but I love it,” he said. “I like being in control of the club and what I do out on the course, and I like knowing that I can always get better.”

A volunteer's unexpected advice changed how she faced cancer

After Annabelle Gurwitch was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, a volunteer with the same diagnosis encouraged her to stop worrying so much about the future and start living again.

Replacing income tax with sales tax helps the rich, hurts the rest

If Iowans want a glimpse of their future, they might just look to the south. To Missouri. Republicans there are asking people to approve a constitutional amendment next month to eliminate the state income tax and authorize an expansion of the sales tax to make up for the lost revenue. This would be a big change — and not a good one. The Missouri Budget Project, which has been critical of the plan, said this tax swap would mean more than tripling the state’s general sales tax rate or significantly expanding its base, to include things like health care and childcare. This would hurt older and middle-class Missourians, while helping the rich, according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. A coalition of opponents is fighting back. But big money — from somewhere — is supporting the proposal. The Kansas City Star reported this week that almost $10 million has been donated over the past two months to try to pass this tax swap. However, the newspaper reports the source of the money hasn’t been disclosed, “leaving voters in the dark about who is bankrolling the plan to overhaul the state’s tax structure.” Across the country, a number of states, mostly Republican-led, have been aggressively moving toward this kind of a tax swap. And they’ve been egged on by the Trump administration. In Iowa, we have already started down this road. Even as our leaders haven’t explicitly acknowledged it. Between 2019 and 2025, the state’s sales and use tax revenues rose by $1.3 billion, or an average of about $1,100 for a household of three. (About two-thirds of this was attributable to inflation.) Meanwhile, net income and corporate tax revenues went down during this period, with the biggest benefits going to the wealthy. Republicans call this a “pro-growth” tax code. Which is true in the sense that it grows the incomes of the rich. But for the rest of us, it simply shifts the tax burden for state government from the well off to the rest of us. And the rest of us weren’t doing so well in the first place. Reynolds would like to eliminate income taxes Real median household income under the Republican trifecta has grown by an average of just 1% per year. Meanwhile, the 10,000 state income tax filers making more than $500,000 per year were expected to reap a windfall of more than $320 million in 2026 from the change to a flat tax. Now, Republicans are seeking to protect those gains. They have put a proposed constitutional amendment on the general election ballot this November making it harder to raise income and corporate taxes than it is to raise the sales tax. Under the proposed amendment, an income tax increase would require a two-thirds super-majority in both houses of the Legislature to pass. A sales tax increase would still only need a simple majority. This is no accident. Reynolds has said she would like to eliminate income taxes in Iowa. And in April, Zach Lahn, the Republican nominee to replace her, said on the Iowa PBS program “Iowa Press” that he, too, wants to eliminate the income tax and rely on property taxes and sales taxes to pay the bills. Lahn has also said he doesn’t want to raise any tax, but jettisoning the income tax would undoubtedly mean an increase in sales and use taxes. It’s unavoidable. Income taxes and sales and use taxes are, by far, the largest revenue generators for the state’s general fund. Each of these two types of taxes raise roughly the same amount of revenue. Lose one and the other will go up. Anyone who tells you otherwise isn’t telling you the truth. Even if income taxes aren’t eliminated, making it easier to raise the sales tax is a sure-fire recipe for it to increase — especially in the event of a recession or some other budget calamity. When Iowa ran into budget trouble in the 1980s and 1990s, the Legislature raised sales tax rates, and it significantly broadened the base to cover online goods and subscriptions in 2019. The state also more than doubled the tax on gasoline over the last 40 years. The top income tax rate, on the other hand, peaked in 1975, and has dramatically declined since then. Another sales tax increase would be bad news for the average Iowa taxpayer. An $1,100 increase in the sales tax hurts households making $50,000 a year a lot more than it does the one making $500,000 per year. Here’s the truth: The special interests in Iowa are afraid voters will eventually demand that legislators revoke the hefty income tax breaks they gave to the wealthy a few years ago. So, now they’re trying to change the state Constitution to head that off, thus making it easier to raise the sales tax instead. But like in Missouri, Iowans can stand up to the special interests and fight. They can reject this disastrous amendment and demand we return to a fairer tax code. This column was originally published by Ed Tibbetts’ Along the Mississippi newsletter on Substack. It was republished by the Iowa Capital Dispatch through the Iowa Writers’ Collaborative.

Missed opportunity for a roundabout leads to traffic backups

Eldridge city leaders are hearing complaints about the long lines at the intersection of LeClaire Road and 4th Avenue. On my motorcycle trips across Ireland, locals refer to stoplights as “ Those (expletive) stop and go lights.” Europeans are used to the efficiency of roundabouts. There are only two types of fuel in Ireland, and both are much more expensive than here. Their roads are designed with fuel costs and pollution in mind. The majority of traffic on that stretch of Leclaire Road is eastbound or westbound. Imagine an uninterrupted flow of traffic from Route 61 to First Street thanks to the efficiency of one roundabout. No lines of idling vehicles and exhaust emissions. Continuous rolling movement avoids the extra fuel required to accelerate a heavy vehicle from a complete standstill, reducing pollution at that intersection and nearby businesses’ parking lots.  Roundabouts save fuel because accelerating from a complete stop uses significantly more fuel than maintaining a steady cruising speed. Vehicles entering LeClaire Road from 4th Avenue would easily blend into traffic. We missed an opportunity to save fuel and reduce pollution when we chose a traditional intersection over a more efficient one. Our community leaders should support the use of roundabouts in future development.   James Turley Eldridge

Obituary: Benjamin Mark Mink

Memorial services for Benjamin Mark Mink, 84, of Eldridge, will be 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11, at Chambers Funeral Home, Eldridge. Inurnment will follow at Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery, Davenport. Family will greet friends on Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to service time at the funeral home. Mark passed away on Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026, at home. Mark was born on Jan. 11, 1942, in Davenport, the son of Edgar and Mabel (McNatton) Mink. He married Sharon A. Stenger in 1972 in Rapids City, Ill. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service as a letter carrier for 27 years, retiring in 1997. He then worked as a bus driver for North Scott Schools. He served in the U.S. Army. He enjoyed playing his guitar, music, woodworking, family, nature, reading, his faith and visiting his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Survivors include his wife, Sharon, his children, Cindy (Jim) Young, Traci (Stuart) Myers, Lisa (David) Martinolich, son, Stephen (Heather) Mink, 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and sister, Virginia Ball.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Vern Mink and James Mink, niece Jenny Ball, nephew Mike Ball and many other family and friends. Memorials may be directed to worldvision.org. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.   Custom obituary

Obituary: Timothy Reickard

Timothy Martin Reickard, 81, of Eldridge, passed away July 30, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City. A Memorial Service will be Saturday, Aug. 8, at Eldridge United Methodist Church, Eldridge, at 11 a.m., with visitation from 9:30 to 11. Tim was born May 27, 1945, in Rock Island, the son of Harold and Colleen Reickard. His family moved to Davenport when he was young and he graduated from West High School in 1963, where he participated in music. He married Carolyn Thrasher in 1964. Together they had two sons, Richard Martin Reickard and Ronald Lewis Reickard. He married Linda Shanks in 1971. Together they had two sons, Chad Alan Reickard and Jared Scott Reickard. He worked for Alcoa after graduation and then started an apprenticeship with Local 387 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union and became a journeyman steamfitter in 1974. Besides working in the trades, he was an apprentice teacher for eight years and attended Purdue University for apprentice teacher training. He retired from Local 25 at the end of 2004 after 35 years in the trade. Tim was a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader in Donahue and Eldridge. He accompanied scouts on many camping trips to Camp Loud Thunder, Camp Minneyata and the Boundary Waters. He volunteered at the local food pantry, the library, and the Eldridge United Methodist Church, where he was a church member and sang in the choir for many years. Tim loved reading, working crossword puzzles, gardening, canning, camping, fishing and working in his shop. Tim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Linda; sons Ronald, Phoenix, Ariz., Chad (Kristin) of Brooklyn Park, Minn., and Jared (Crystal) of Port Byron, Ill.; grandchildren Elliana, Jaevan, Aria, Jessamina, Kai, Jordan, Devan, and a step-grandson, Skylar (Jessica) Garcia; and sibling Joyce Gabriel, Broken Arrow, Okla. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; his son, Richard; sisters Judith and Lynn; and grandchildren Kael and Tyler. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Ronald McDonald House in Chicago, Ill., or the Eldridge United Methodist Church. Remembrances and condolences may be made to the family at McGinnis-Chambers.com.    Custom obituary

Obituary: Helen Stubbe

Helen Stubbe, 98, of LeClaire, formerly of Pleasant Valley, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026, at her residence. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 5 (today), at Trinity Lutheran Church, Pleasant Valley.  Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service.  Burial will be at Pleasant Valley Cemetery.  Memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Pleasant Valley.  McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Helen was born on Dec. 9, 1927, the daughter of Christian and Jean (Kerr) Schumacher.  She graduated from Davenport High School and continued her education at Iowa State Teacher’s College.  On Oct. 8, 1949, she married Lavern H. “Dudy” Stubbe in DeWitt.  Helen taught elementary school for several years.  She later worked as an administrative assistant to the superintendent at Pleasant Valley School District.  She retired in 1993 after over 40 years of service.  Helen was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, and enjoyed reading, jigsaw puzzles, and crosswords.  She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Pleasant Valley. Those left to honor her memory are her daughter, Jacque (Raymond) Andrews of LeClaire; daughter-in-law, Linda Stubbe of Davenport; grandchildren, Jennifer (Bob Overton) Stubbe, Christopher Stubbe, Anna (David) Heidenreich; and great-grandchildren, Miah Overton, Gavin and Paxton Heidenreich. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lavern; son, Douglas Stubbe; and siblings, Marge Shropshire and Dean Schumacher. Online condolences may be shared with Helen’s family at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.   Custom obituary

Obituary: James Weibel

James L. Weibel, 82, of Long Grove, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in DeWitt. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Monday, Aug. 10, at 10 a.m., at Chambers Funeral Home in Eldridge. Visitation will be held on Sunday afternoon from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the funeral home. Jim was born Feb. 5, 1944, in Denver, Colo., the son of Frank & Gertrude (Swick) Weibel. After graduating high school, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University and later a master’s degree in art education. Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968, Jim served as an infantryman in Vietnam in 1969. He was united in marriage to Ida M. Legner on Aug. 11, 1973, in Davenport. Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Ida; his sons and daughters-in-law, Matthew and Sarah Weibel of Cedar Rapids, Jason and Sarah Weibel of West Des Moines, and Aaron and Cassandra Weibel of West Des Moines; his foster son, Ho Tran of Rochester, N.Y.; his grandchildren, Brandon, Elizabeth, Kaitlyn, Seth and Felix; his brothers, John (Donna) Weibel of Manchester, Frank (Mary) Weibel of Ankeny, Phillip (Claire) Weibel of Gillette, Wyo., Paul (Kathy) Weibel of Claremore, Okla., and Glen (Karen) Weibel of Joplin, Mo.; his sisters, Rose (Ed) Snowbarger of Kirksville, Mo., Glida (Larry) Reamsnyder of Clovis, N.M., and Jo Ann (Bill) Smith of Huntsville, Ala.; and several nieces and nephews. During his life, Jim enjoyed being involved with his community by volunteering with many various youth activities. Jim volunteered as a soccer coach and referee for the Family Y Youth soccer program. He was involved with the Boy Scouts for many years as an Assistant Scoutmaster and later Scoutmaster for Troop 203. He was on the Long Grove Park Board for many years, where he constructed the disc golf course. In later years, he volunteered to construct and maintain off-road bike trails in Scott County Park and Westbrook Park in DeWitt. Jim enjoyed being in nature and visited many national parks. He loved to hike, bike, kayak, camp, rock climb and rappel. He competed in races, including the Bix 7, the Maquoketa triathlon, Dubuque’s B-rrry Scurry, and the Pikes Peak Ascent half marathon. He also rode RAGBRAI and many off-road bike trails. Jim loved his family and enjoyed sharing his love for the outdoors with his grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter, Caroline. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, Humility Homes & Services or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting Jim’s obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.   Custom obituary

Goldpine, August 17

Hailed by Americana Highways as "very innovative and eclectic," the Americana artists of Goldpine, composed of married Nashville musicians Benjamin and Kassie Wilson, return to Davenport's Raccoon Motel on August 17, their 2025 album Three also lauded by Americana Highways as a work that "features powerful vocals, a unique sound, and a mix of raucous and subdued styles."

Obituary: Gerald ‘Jerry’ Tobin

Gerald Matthew Tobin, 52, a resident of Long Grove, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf after a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral services and a Mass of Christian Burial for Jerry were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Long Grove. Burial followed in St. Ann’s Cemetery. Visitation was held from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3, at the church, with additional visitation on Tuesday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. prior to Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for an educational fund for his children or your favorite charity. Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Jerry was born Dec. 28, 1973, in Davenport, a son of Matt and Inez (Gluesing) Tobin. He graduated from North Scott High School in 1992. On Sept. 3, 2011, he was united in marriage to Linsey Moffit in LeClaire. Jerry lived life with a big heart, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering love for his family. He spent many years working alongside his brother at Tobin Brothers Construction before returning to his true passion — farming the family homestead. Above all else, Jerry was a devoted father. Tate, Emery, and Gannon were the center of his world, and there was nowhere he’d rather be than cheering them on at their activities, riding around the farm in the side by side, and making memories together. Jerry was the person everyone could count on — the first to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply show up when he was needed. His genuine kindness, easy smile, and ability to make anyone feel like a friend meant he never met a stranger. When he wasn’t farming or spending time with those he loved, Jerry enjoyed golfing, hunting, and making the most of every moment with his many friends. Those left to honor his life are Linsey, his children: Tate Moffit, Emery and Gannon Tobin; his mother, Inez Tobin of Eldridge; his sisters, Dawn (Chris) Hinrichs of DeWitt and Karen (Jay) Lorenzen of Polk City; his brothers, Brian Tobin of Eldridge and Josh (Kelli) Tobin of Davenport; his nephews, Connell (Alyssa) Lorenzen and Drew Lorenzen, also-in-laws: Tom and Nancee Moffit of LeClaire; as well as many extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Matt Tobin, and his grandparents. Online tributes may be expressed at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.   Custom obituary

Obituary: Gary King

Gary R. King, 74, of Eldridge, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Fieldstone of DeWitt in DeWitt. Gary will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, loyal friend, and a man whose generous heart, infectious laugh, and welcoming spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. A service to celebrate Gary’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 5, at Faith Lutheran Church in Eldridge, where he was a longtime and faithful member. Visitation was from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Faith Lutheran Church’s Camp Scholarship Fund or to the Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City. Chambers Funeral Home of Eldridge is assisting the family with arrangements. Gary was born in Davenport on March 11, 1952, the son of Ralph and Jeanette (Wenndt) King. He earned his associate’s degree from Kirkwood College in Cedar Rapids and proudly served his country as a member of the Iowa Army National Guard. On June 28, 1975, Gary married the love of his life, Joni K. Beranek, in Shueyville. Together they built a life centered on love, family, faith, and hard work, sharing more than 50 years of memories before Joni’s passing on June 16, 2026. Their enduring love was an inspiration to all who knew them. Farming was never simply Gary’s livelihood — it was his passion. As a lifelong farmer in Lowden, he took great pride in caring for his land and especially his cattle. He also spent nearly three decades as a UPS delivery driver in Clinton, where his friendly smile and genuine kindness brightened the days of countless customers and coworkers alike. Gary had a gift for making people feel like lifelong friends. With his booming laugh, easygoing nature, and warm sense of humor, he truly never met a stranger. Whether visiting over a cold Pepsi, playing a spirited game of cards, or striking up a conversation with someone new, Gary’s presence made people feel welcome. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Gary faithfully cheered on the Iowa Hawkeyes football and basketball teams and remained a devoted Philadelphia Phillies fan. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing semi-professional baseball, and throughout his life he rarely missed the excitement of auto racing, especially NASCAR. No matter the event, Gary loved sharing those moments with family and friends. Above all else, Gary treasured his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating memories they will carry with them forever. Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Kristi (Nick) Cummins of Newton; his son, Corey (Stacie) King of Montgomery, Ohio; his beloved grandchildren, Colin and Allyson Cummins, and Kylie, Hayden, and Tyler King; his sister, Vicky (Rick) Brunscheen of Wyoming, Iowa; along with many extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joni, and his parents, Ralph and Jeanette. Though Gary’s family deeply mourns his loss, they find comfort in the countless memories he leaves behind — a life defined by unwavering faith, tireless work, steadfast love for his family, and friendships that spanned a lifetime. His laughter, kindness, and generous spirit will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched. Condolences may be expressed to the family by viewing his obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.   Custom obituary

Obituary: Donald Brandt

Donald LeRoy Brandt, 91, of Donahue, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. Don was born April 12, 1935, in Davenport, the son of LeRoy William Brandt and Zoa Lenore (Andresen) Brandt. He graduated from Davenport High School in June 1954 and served in the U.S. Air Force. Don married Janet Kay Cuppy in July 1958. Together, they built their family and life in Davenport, sharing 68 years of marriage. In 1970, he founded The Brandt Company. He was actively involved in many social, community and business organizations, and enjoyed the outdoors, antique toys, Model T automobiles, war and cowboy movies, and the Iowa Hawkeyes. He was known for his humor as well as his height. Above all, Don was a devoted husband, father of four, grandfather of three, and great-grandfather of five. He is survived by his wife, Janet Kay Brandt of Donahue; his four children, William Brian Brandt and his wife, Marcia (Woods) Brandt, of Davenport, Stacy Elizabeth Brandt of DeWitt, Marc Douglas Brandt and his wife, Susan (Simms) Brandt, of Ellijay, Ga., and Douglas Robert Brandt of St. Louis, Mo. He was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoy William Brandt and Zoa Lenore (Andresen) Brandt, and his sister, Shirley Anne “Sis” (Les) Strohbehn. Visitation was held Sunday, Aug. 2, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the Runge Mortuary. Funeral services were held Monday, Aug. 3, at 12 p.m. at The Runge Mortuary & Crematory in Davenport. Burial and military honors took place immediately following at Rock Island National Cemetery on Rock Island Arsenal. Reception was held at Runge Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org). Find the full obituary and share condolences at www.rungemortuary.com.   Custom obituary

Stacy Antonel, August 18

With Americana Highways praising the artist for delivering a "sweet, steamy pot of serious country music and lyrics." singer/songwriter Stacy Antonel headlines an August 18 concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel, her debut album Always the Outsider hailed by Saving Country Music as "quite an exquisite collection of songs that gives Antonel a unique role in the country landscape."

View the Scott County Sheriff's report from the Aug. 5 NSP!

SUNDAY, JULY 19 8:01 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of a two-vehicle accident near 60th Avenue and Interstate 80 West, Walcott. A vehicle driven by Jayne Marie Anderson, 55, Dayton, Ohio, made a left turn out of a parking lot and struck a vehicle driven by Jacqueline Marie Hiltl, 31, Davenport, that was southbound on 60th Avenue. MONDAY, JULY 20 1:01 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of a one-vehicle accident near 240th Street and 240th Avenue. A vehicle driven by Joshua Michael Volk, 41, Davenport, experienced mechanical failure and became stranded in the roadway. Another individual attempted to help him tow the vehicle to the side of the roadway. A piece of the drivetrain on the vehicle then broke, causing the vehicle to roll into a ditch and come to rest in a cornfield. TUESDAY, JULY 21 6:14 p.m. — Austin Michael Ramirez, 29, no address given, was charged with possession of a controlled substance (marijuana) – 3rd or subsequent offense and possession of drug paraphernalia, following an incident on 210th Street, Davenport. WEDNESDAY, JULY 22 3:43 a.m. — Dale Lee Darland, 39, no address given, was charged with interference with official acts and cited for failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, following a traffic stop near West 53rd Street and Appomattox Road, Davenport. THURSDAY, JULY 23 3:51 a.m. — Amy Jo Ruchotzke, 47, no address given, was charged with possession of a controlled substance (non-marijuana) – 3rd or subsequent offense and possession of drug paraphernalia and cited for improper use of registration, following an incident in the 900 block of West Kimberly Road, Davenport. 7:14 a.m. — Aisha Nicole Bovan, 26, no address given, was arrested on an outstanding intrastate warrant, following a traffic stop near West 49th and North Pine streets, Davenport.  7:36 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of a one-vehicle accident in the 600 block of Belmont Road, Bettendorf. A vehicle driven by Brittany Ann Gonzales, 32, Coal Valley, Ill., was backing off the side of the roadway to pick up some traffic cones. The vehicle struck a speed limit sign. FRIDAY, JULY 24 1:39 a.m. — Justin John Slightom, 42, no address given, was charged with 2nd degree theft and cited for driving while license denied, suspended, cancelled or revoked, following an incident in the 5200 block of Elmore Avenue, Davenport. 10:16 a.m. — Justin Thomas Pyles, 41, no address given, was charged with a probation violation, following an incident in the 400 block of Main Street, Davenport. 2:47 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 600 block of East 4th Street. 3:22 p.m. — Deputies responded to a harassment complaint in the 11300 block of 140th Street. 3:35 p.m. — Deputies responded to a harassment complaint on Park Crest Court. 4:42 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury in the 2100 block of East River Drive. 5:48 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a burglary/home invasion in the 300 block of South Juniata Street. 8:02 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury. 8:58 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a missing person in the 2100 block of Glenn Court. 10:24 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 400 block of North 6th Street. 10:30 p.m. — Deputies responded to a harassment complaint. 11:26 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance. SATURDAY, JULY 25 12:33 a.m. — Deputies responded to a shots fired call near West 46th Street and Rodeo Court. 2:09 a.m. — Deputies responded to a trespassing complaint in the 2100 block of Emerald Drive. 11:27 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury. 11:44 a.m. — Deputies performed a welfare check in the 11000 block of 140th Street Place. 1:24 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of theft in the 2800 block of Hickory Grove Road. 3:47 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance. 7:53 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 3100 block of Rambling Road. 8:28 p.m. — Deputies responded to a drug complaint. 8:49 p.m. — Deputies responded to a fireworks complaint in the 500 block of Chestnut Street. 8:56 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 4600 block of Telegraph Road. 10:31 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of an animal problem in the 22700 block of 282nd Avenue. 10:39 p.m. — Deputies responded to a fireworks complaint in the 600 block of Davenport Street. 11:41 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of theft in the 3100 block of West Kimberly Road. 11:59 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with property damage in the 3600 block of East 53rd Street. SUNDAY, JULY 26 12:08 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 600 block of North Highway 67. 12:41 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 400 block of 2nd Street. 1:18 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in the 400 block of South Dittmer Street. 1:21 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 400 block of 2nd Street. 4:23 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in in the 3600 block of West 83rd Street. 9:08 a.m. — Deputies responded to a drug complaint in the 18800 block of 270th Street. 11:47 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 600 block of North Highway 67. 12:48 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 3500 block of North Plainview Road. 3:32 p.m. — Deputies responded to a weapons complaint in the 1900 block of Perry Street. 5:11 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of an animal problem in the 300 block of Concord Court. 5:17 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of an animal problem. 6:09 p.m. — Deputies responded to a weapons complaint in the 4000 block of East 53rd Street. 7:01 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a juvenile problem in the 6100 block of 114th Street. 7:42 p.m. — Deputies responded to a weapons complaint in the 5200 block of Elmore Avenue. 8:52 p.m. — Deputies responded to a shots fired call in the 2100 block of Emerald Drive. MONDAY, JULY 27 12:26 a.m. — Deputies responded to a trespassing complaint in the 600 block of North Highway 67. 1:30 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 300 block of East 15th Street. 2:29 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of a one-vehicle accident near Highway 61 North and 210th Street, Davenport. A vehicle driven by Ronald Jason Molen, 48, Nancy, Ky., exited Highway 61. On the exit ramp, the vehicle left the roadway and struck a road sign. The vehicle then travelled down the embankment and onto the other ramp, which connects 90th Street to Highway 61. The vehicle travelled south the wrong way down the exit ramp before going onto 210th Street. The vehicle was then located driving southbound in the northbound lanes in the 6600 block of North Brady Street. Molen was charged with OWI – 1st offense and cited for striking fixtures upon a highway. 7:17 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of an animal problem near 290th Street and Scott Park Road. 9:43 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury in the 25500 block of Valley Drive. 11:53 a.m. — Deputies responded to a trespassing complaint in the 11600 block of 110th Avenue. 1:23 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 2300 block of McKinley Avenue. 3:03 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury near Highway 67 and Fillmore Street. 4:59 p.m. — Deputies responded to a weapons complaint in the 1100 block of Jones Street. 10:36 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with property damage. TUESDAY, JULY 28 2:50 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in the 6300 block of Brady Street. 8:15 a.m. — Deputies performed a welfare check. 8:41 a.m. — Robert Darnell Wise, 56, no address given, was charged with a sex offender registration violation – 1st offense, following an incident in the 400 block of West 4th Street, Davenport. 8:56 a.m. — Deputies performed a welfare check in the 1100 block of East 15th Street. 9:15 a.m. — Deputies responded to a trespassing complaint in the 1300 block of Eagle Ridge Road. 11:42 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in the 3700 block of West Locust Street. 12:43 p.m. — Deputies responded to a drug complaint in the 3200 block of South 16th Avenue. 1:14 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 100 block of East 55th Street. 3:01 p.m. — Deputies responded to a fraud complaint in the 18300 block of 110th Avenue. 3:54 p.m. — Deputies responded to a vandalism complaint in the 21500 block of Maysville Road. 3:56 p.m. — Lane Lelyn Walker, 23, no address given, was cited for driving while license denied or revoked, following a traffic stop near Manor Drive and 270th Street, Eldridge. 6:10 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 2900 block of Devils Glen Road. 6:28 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of a two-vehicle accident near Maysville Road and 210th Street. A vehicle driven by Bryce Edward Jabanoski, 49, Davenport, attempted to pass a vehicle driven by Allan Bernard McCoy, 67, Walcott. Jabanoski’s vehicle sideswiped McCoy’s vehicle. Jabanoski was cited for failure to maintain control. 11:45 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 800 block of Stonebridge Circle. WEDNESDAY, JULY 29 10:03 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury near Frontage Road and Veterans Memorial Parkway. 10:32 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with property damage in the 8300 block of Northwest Boulevard. 1:30 p.m. — Kathlene Marie Johnson, 47, no address given, was charged with a sex offender registration violation – 2nd or subsequent offense, following an incident in the 400 block of West 4th Street, Davenport. 2:29 p.m. — Aieshah Monique Castillo, 29, no address given, was charged with public intoxication – 1st offense, interference with official acts, disorderly conduct and prohibited area – state parks, following an incident in the 14900 block of 110th Avenue, Davenport. 2:42 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of theft in the 2300 block of West Locust Street. 7:21 p.m. — Deputies responded to a shots fired call in the 3400 block of West Kimberly Road. THURSDAY, JULY 30 2:07 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with personal injury near East River Drive and East 4th Street. 9:53 a.m. — Richard Brian Bailey, 23, no address given, was charged with intent to deliver marijuana under 50 kg, following a traffic stop near West 76th and North Division streets, Davenport. 10:56 a.m. — Deputies responded to a drug complaint. 1:15 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of harassing communications in the 28100 block of 215th Street. 1:21 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of an assault in the 27700 block of 225th Street. 1:43 p.m. — Deputies performed a welfare check on Park View Drive. 2:02 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of theft in the 13800 block of 118th Avenue. 4:59 p.m. — Deputies performed a welfare check in the 200 block of South Kensington Street. 11:21 p.m. — Deputies responded to a report of a missing person. 11:24 p.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with property damage near 248th Avenue and Wells Ferry Road. FRIDAY, JULY 31 5:50 a.m. — Deputies responded to a report of an animal problem in the 1000 block of Jefferson Street. 6:45 a.m. — Deputies responded to the scene of an accident with property damage near 290th Street and 200th Avenue.

View the Eldridge Police report from the Aug. 5 NSP!

MONDAY, JULY 27 1:14 a.m. — Complaint of a suspicious vehicle in the 200 block of East Iowa Street. Handled by officer. 1:32 a.m. — Report of an alarm sounding in the 9600 block of Harrison Street. Keyholder contacted. Handled by officer. 2:08 p.m. — Complaint of a disabled vehicle in the 900 block of East Iowa Street. Handled by officer. 4:00 p.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call on Highway 61. 5:21 p.m. — Complaint of a reckless driver near North Buttermilk and West LeClaire roads. Handled by officer. 6:42 p.m. — Assisted a subject near 180th Avenue and 230th Street. Handled by officer. 9:20 p.m. — Complaint of a suspicious vehicle in the 100 block of South 4th Avenue. Handled by officer. 11:08 p.m. — Erin Stanley, 34, of Eldridge, was arrested for driving under suspension and cited for no insurance and speeding, following a traffic stop in the 1400 block of East LeClaire Road. 11:53 p.m. — Complaint of a dog running loose in the 2700 block of East Daniels Court. Handled by officer. TUESDAY, JULY 28 12:58 a.m. — Report of an alarm sounding in the 9600 block of Harrison Street. Keyholder contacted. Handled by officer. 4:46 a.m. — Assisted another agency with a traffic stop near South 1st Street and East Fisher Court. 5:23 a.m. — Report of a fire alarm sounding in the 900 block of Trails Road. False alarm. Handled by officer. 11:04 a.m. — Grant Golden, 36, of Des Moines, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for criminal mischief 4th degree – probation violation, following an incident near South 9th Avenue and East LeClaire Road. 9:26 p.m. — Complaint of juveniles ringing a door bell in the 100 block of South 8th Street. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 9:57 p.m. — Complaint of suspicious subjects in the 800 block of North 1st Street. Handled by officer. 11:01 p.m. — Complaint of suspicious subjects in the 200 block of East Iowa Street. Handled by officer. 11:41 p.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call in the 300 block of West Oak Street. 11:45 p.m. — Complaint of a disturbance in the 800 block of Stonebridge Circle. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. WEDNESDAY, JULY 29 12:52 a.m. — Report of an alarm sounding in the 21100 block of Scott Park Road. Keyholder contacted. Handled by officer. 1:27 a.m. — Assisted another agency with an incident in the 700 block of North 1st Street. 2:22 a.m. — Assisted a resident in the 500 block of West Prairie Vista Drive. Handled by officer. 2:42 a.m. — Complaint of a house being TP-ed in the 500 block of West Prairie Vista Drive. Handled by officer. 7:30 a.m. — Report of a fire alarm in the 900 block of Trails Road. False alarm. Handled by officer. 10:42 a.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call in the 300 block of East Donahue Street. 10:54 a.m. — Complaint of a carbon monoxide detector going off in the 300 block of North 6th Street. Handled by officer. 11:41 a.m. — Report of a parking complaint in the 400 block of South 9th Avenue. Handled by officer. 12:33 p.m. — Report of a parking complaint in the 1000 block of East Iowa Street. Handled by officer. 2:03 p.m. — Complaint of a reckless driver on Highway 61. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 2:45 p.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call in the 3200 block of South 16th Avenue. 4:36 p.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call in the 1600 block of Leonard Court. 5:05 p.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call in the 200 block of North 6th Street. THURSDAY, JULY 30 12:49 a.m. — Report of an alarm sounding in the 200 block of South 16th Avenue. Keyholder contacted. Handled by officer. 1:48 a.m. — Complaint of a dog running loose on Highway 61. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 9:06 a.m. — Complaint of a disabled vehicle on Highway 61. Handled by officer. 10:27 a.m. — Complaint of a disabled vehicle near West LeClaire and North Buttermilk roads. Handled by officer. 10:38 a.m. — Complaint of goats running loose near East Lincoln and South Scott Park roads. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 11:05 a.m. — Complaint of a reckless driver on Highway 61. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 11:31 a.m. — Complaint of a gas leak in the 300 block of North 16th Avenue. The call was turned over to MidAmerican Energy. 1:50 p.m. — Report taken for an accident between two vehicles on Highway 61. 2:03 p.m. — Assisted another agency with a traffic stop on Highway 61. 5:52 p.m. — Complaint of a dog running loose on Highway 61. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 6:16 p.m. — Complaint of a suspicious vehicle in the 24500 block of 170th Avenue. Handled by officer. 9:13 p.m. — Complaint of a suspicious vehicle in the 800 block of South Buttermilk Road. Handled by officer. 10:36 p.m. — Complaint of juveniles ringing a doorbell in the 500 block of West Prairie Vista Drive. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. FRIDAY, JULY 31 1:42 a.m. — Complaint of a watermain break near West Donahue and North 3rd streets. The call was turned over to public works. Handled by officer. 11:03 p.m. — Report taken for theft of property in the 300 block of West Torrey Pines Drive. 1:30 p.m. — Assisted another agency with a report of a civil issue in the 300 block of North 2nd Street. Handled by officer. 6:35 p.m. — Brandon Fullmer, 37, of LeClaire, was cited for an expired driver’s license, following a traffic stop near South 1st Street and Slopertown Road. 9:41 p.m. — Karla Higgins, 72, of Eldridge, was arrested for driving under suspension, following a traffic stop on Highway 61. 11:07 p.m. — Complaint of suspicious activity in the 700 block of East Pinehurst Drive. Handled by officer. SATURDAY, AUG. 1 10:57 a.m. — Complaint of a disabled vehicle on Highway 61. Handled by officer. 5:49 p.m. — Lindsey Brower, 37, of Eldridge, was cited for operating a non-registered vehicle, following a traffic stop in the 400 block of East LeClaire Road. SUNDAY, AUG. 2 12:52 a.m. — Complaint of loud music playing in the 800 block of North 1st Street. Unable to locate. Handled by officer. 4:44 a.m. — Report taken for a vehicle striking a mailbox in the 400 block of South Scott Park Road. 6:40 a.m. — Assisted Medic with an EMS call in the 400 block of North 3rd Avenue. 1:06 p.m. — Report of a parking complaint in the 1000 block of East Iowa Street. Handled by officer. 5:34 p.m. — Corey Adams, 42, of Port Byron, Ill., was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear – possession of a controlled substance, following a traffic stop in the 2200 block of South 1st Street. 6:34 p.m. — Assisted a resident in the 300 block of Country Club Court. Handled by officer. 9:41 p.m. — Complaint of a suspicious vehicle near South 1st Street and East Lincoln Road. Handled by officer. 9:58 p.m. — Complaint of a dog running loose in the 2700 block of East Daniels Court. The owner retrieved the animal. Handled by officer. 10:54 p.m. — Complaint of suspicious subjects in the 100 block of East Iowa Street. Handled by officer.  

Counting down the best North Scott sports moments of 2025-2026 season

What a wild 2025-2026 sports season for North Scott High School. You all kept me busy, that’s for sure. Over the past month, I’ve pondered ways to recap the year. It’s not something our paper typically does, outside of the ‘Year in Review’ pages around the holidays. This is the best I’ve got: a top 10 list. But I want this top 10 list to be different. I asked myself these questions: What moments can I not stop thinking about all these months later? Who are the people that made them so memorable? When did I have the most fun on the job this year? I’ll take you behind the scenes of what I was seeing, thinking and doing during some of the most exciting moments of the season, and why they still resonate with me today. After revisiting each North Scott Press sports section from the last 52 weeks, nominees were selected. They were cut, combined, reorganized and settled into a solid 10. A point of order: This is not an objective list. There is an association between success and placement, but it is not absolute. You can probably guess what No. 1 is. But No. 2 involves a crushing defeat. Four of the 10 don’t even occur at state tournaments. To whet the palate, here are some honorable mentions, listed in chronological order, that just missed my cut:   I've always wanted to witness a basketball buzzer-beater. Naturally, the one time I leave town for a planned-months-in-advance vacation, Alaina Dreckmeier hits a fadeaway three-pointer to beat ninth-ranked Clinton at Yourd Gymnasium. At 9 a.m. the next morning, sitting on the airport floor and feeling awful, I did my ‘postgame’ interview with Dave Linnenbrink. He connected me with Dreckmeier, with whom I spoke the following afternoon by phone from my cruise cabin. Had I been in the gym, this moment almost certainly makes the list.   Bowling doesn’t get big publicity, but its state meet experience is immaculate. Spectators pack into Cadillac XBC like sardines. It’s claustrophobic. The cracking sounds of crushed pins are neverending. It’s intense. The boys’ bowling team competed, and Lucas Persson and Skylar Shalack came away with individual medals. I still remember the look on Lindy Dhuse’s face when she realized she’d miss the knockout stage, ending her state title defense, by a few pins. Dhuse was graceful in defeat, and I was glad she joined Shalack and me for a recap interview.   The boys’ soccer team provided great late-match theater this spring. Somehow, the drama always involved the goalkeeper. One got a red card in the final minute against Hempstead. Another broke his nose against Central. (The team’s emergency goalkeeper, Davis Hoeper, played the final 30 minutes of the latter). In the substate final, the Lancers nearly scored three unanswered goals in the second half to force overtime against North. The team gave fans a thrilling game seemingly every night.   Golf is the most unique prep sport to cover. It’s the most intimate setting. I can’t blend in on a sideline or in the bleachers. If I’m there, everybody sees. As a result, I’ve gotten to know golfers and their families better than any other sport. I know the girls’ golf team wishes it qualified for state, but I was happy that Addison Eckhardt went as an individual. It closed an incredible chapter for her and the program; one I got to witness firsthand starting in 2023.   It’s no secret that my favorite sport is tennis. I watch an unhealthy amount of the ATP and WTA tours. What great fortune that Maddy Jepsen and Lucas Persson arrived at North Scott at the same time I did and became the most accomplished tennis players in school history. Jepsen placed fourth at state singles in October. She and Persson joined forces at coed state in June. It was neat watching those two share the court one last time. No. 10 — Football defeats Clear Creek-Amana in overtime When I started at the NSP, Mark Ridolfi half-joked that I am allotted two exclamation points in headlines per year. I’m glad I saved them for the fall. I used exclamations in consecutive weeks in September, this story being the second. (You’ll see the first later on in this list). Out of every headline I’ve written at the NSP, ‘Great Scott!’ is one of the best. It wasn’t a buzzer-beater, but the excitement was the same. The Lancers walked off Clear Creek-Amana in Tiffin. Scott McCoy caught the game-winner in overtime in a truly bonkers football game. McCoy only had four career receptions entering the game. He ends up the hero. There were eight combined touchdowns in the game. Ryan Block had a kick return for six in the first half. CCA led by seven with just over four minutes left, and Miller Haedt rushed in for the game-tying score. It was one of those nights where I raced up and down the Lancers’ sideline. My notebook was a disaster zone of scribbles and arrows, trying to keep up. And, icing on the cake, the North Scott student section had its best performance of the season. They were trading barbs back and forth with the Clippers’ student section. My personal favorite was when someone in the North Scott section belted out ‘46 and 1!’ No. 9 — Jaxon Adkisson ties for second at state golf Literally the first shot I watched Jaxon Adkisson hit on day two of the state golf tournament, he holed out for eagle from 130 yards away. It was a harbinger of things to come. Adkisson started the day one shot off the lead. That eagle on the par-4 eighth hole put him two shots in front of the pack. After making sure I had at least one good photo of the other five Lancers playing, I stuck to Adkisson’s group for the final stretch. It was pretty surreal watching him walk off of the 18th green and become the leader in the clubhouse at 1 under. Andrew Johannsen of Johnston, son of former Lancer great Jeff Johannsen, birdied the par-4 17th hole to go to 2 under. Johannsen sank a six-foot par putt on the last hole to win the state title. I walked the final few holes with a Hyperion Field Club member and state meet volunteer, someone who knew the Johannsen family, as it was their home course too. In hindsight, I should’ve tried to have him help me find Jeff. That would have been a fun interview. For Adkisson, he won conference individual gold. He placed fourth at districts. He tied for second at state, officially third on cardback. It is the best season for a North Scott golfer in school history. No. 8 — Sage Dzeladini places third at state wrestling At every match, I could not believe what I was watching. In her first match at state, leading 9-2 in the third period, Sage Dzeladini got taken down, pinned and bumped into consolations. Dzeladini trailed 3-0 in her next match, but found a pin. Dzeladini trailed 11-0 (eleven to zero!) in her third-round consolation, but found a pin. In her fourth-round consolation, Dzeladini trailed 3-0, but found a pin against a South Tama girl who beat her twice at state last year. Same script in the bronze medal match. Dzeladini got taken down. She reversed. She pinned. I didn’t get a single good action shot of Dzeladini from state wrestling. At least, none made it into the paper. Dzeladini was in trouble for most of her time on the mat. The reaction shots, however, were perfect. Three made it in that week. Dzeladini and Aviea Holden both won regional titles the week prior. Khloe Hamilton won a win-or-go-home second-place match. Sierra Metcalf became the program’s first 100-win wrestler at regionals. It was a thrilling eight-day stretch. During this time, I received my first on-the-record f-bomb. I will keep the speaker anonymous. The phrase rhymed with ‘low ducking crowd.’ That about sums it up, doesn’t it? No. 7 — Boys’ wrestling beats Bettendorf, Assumption Speaking of reaction shots: There’s a reason why none were in the paper when the boys’ wrestling team beat Assumption in a MAC dual. I put my camera away when the final bout between Bryce Stewart and Maxwell Azzaline went into overtime. Assumption led by four team points. I thought it had clinched the dual. Rookie mistake. I didn’t know the rules. Mea culpa. Stewart’s sudden-death pin was the loudest crowd pop in a high school gym I’ve heard during my time here. The Lancer bench exploded. Drew Kelly, already on the mat, had a foot inside of the circle when the ref slammed his hand down. I whipped my phone out when I realized the ref would allowed Stewart a chance to pin. I shared the video on the social platform X. It is, to date, my most-viewed post on the site. This came just a month after Cole Bruck and Max Davis pinned a pair of Bulldogs to beat Bettendorf 37-35 in The Pit. This one was less dramatic, with both pins coming in the first period. It was no less meaningful as it was the team’s first dual win over Bettendorf in nearly four years. We are still not done with wrestling moments on the list. For now, another winter sport. No. 6 — Boys’ basketball substate at Bettendorf, Prairie At George Mason University, basketball is the culture. EagleBank Arena is where I cut my teeth for the student newspaper. No sporting environment fires me up as a reporter more than a capacity crowd basketball game, and my time in college helped foster that. (As an aside, if I were to do a top 10 list of my all-time favorite North Scott moments, the substate final from 2024 at the PowerHouse against undefeated Kennedy is probably in the top three). Likewise, the environments inside Bettendorf’s and Prairie’s gyms last winter were phenomenal. Crowds roared at every basket. The student sections were electric and downright mean at times with their chants. I loved it. The Bettendorf game was a pure rout. The Bulldogs did not have an answer all night. I felt the magic again at Prairie. The Lancers played great ball through three quarters. Prairie started to self-destruct in the fourth quarter with five personal fouls in two and a half minutes. The Hawks crowd vociferously booed the referees. By triple zeroes, it wasn’t meant to be. I’m often a big self-critic, but I really like the way I ended that story. It highlights the importance of traveling with the team and being present for the moment: “As the postgame press gaggle disbanded, (Shamus) Budde stuck around to thank the local media members. He did so amid a backdrop of Prairie players climbing up a ladder to one of the gym’s 10-foot hoops, scissors in hand. “Next year,” Budde remarked. “That’s us next year.” No. 5 — Six Lancers win medals at state track meet I get that North Scott has great track and field athletes. But do they have to be great at both high jump and discus? Can’t they just pick one? It’s becoming a real pain trying to be in two places at once. I thought 2024 was a one-off. Zach McMillian won discus, and Sydney Skarich and Natalie Nwatchock tied for third at high jump — two events going on at the same time on opposite sides of the state meet site. It happened again this spring. Alyssa Schroeder placed second in the high jump, and Behren Radech went from the No. 20 seed to seventh place in discus. Fun fact: I set my own PR in the 400-meter dash trying to get from the southern endzone to the northernmost grassy field at Drake Stadium. Maybe Joe Greenwood will give me a tryout next spring? Adalynn Johnson and Trey Feist medaled in shot put the next day, as did Kaylee Ervin in the long jump. Boys' shot put and girls' long jump started at the same time. Thankfully, I didn't have to leave the turf infield. Saturday afternoon, Micayla Ramirez capped off the meet with a fourth-place finish in the 100-meter dash. State track is my most demanding weekend of the year, more so than state wrestling because it’s outdoors. But with it comes tons of great story opportunities. Maybe it’s a good thing, after all, that the Lancers have great athletes. No. 4 — Girls’ soccer are state runners-up From the very first game, when North Scott crushed Independence 7-0, I could tell this team was different. Maybe not ‘19-match unbeaten streak’ different. But it was stark. That streak was strange. The Lancers didn’t have a ‘wow’ type of game, at least from my perspective, in the first 18. The Assumption win on senior night had a little bit of it. The team won fairly convincingly against Dallas Center-Grimes in teh state quarterfinals, too. North Scott beat every team they were supposed to during the regular season, but it tied all of the other top-ranked teams. There’s only so much one can write about a tie. The team must have been saving up for Norwalk. With about 10 minutes left, with North Scott trailing 1-0, I stood up from my spot near midfield on the spectators’ sideline and made the long walk around the field towards the team benches, brainstorming questions along the way. I did, in fact, learn my lesson from wrestling. I kept my camera out. The pictures of Julia Solis, who scored the winning goal, and Reese Barnett, who had the tying goal and winning assist, are two of my favorites from the year. I had ‘team of destiny’ vibes at that point. North Polk had other ideas in the final. It was still an incredible run spanning nearly three months. Between the boys’ team, girls’ team, and the World Cup, I found myself enjoying soccer to a degree I didn't think was possible. Goal-based games like soccer, hockey, lacrosse, etc., still lag behind many other sports in my personal power rankings. I don’t see the beauty in them that others do. But maybe there’s hope for me yet.   No. 3 — Volleyball beats Pleasant Valley in five sets   Deadline days on the news side of the NSP office are typically 12-hour shifts. On this particular Tuesday, feeling zombified and seeing the volleyball team get walloped in the first two sets against Pleasant Valley, I ordered food delivered to my apartment. When I arrived home over two hours later, I was no longer tired. And my food was cold. The Lancers had absolutely no business winning this match. I put this stat in the story: “North Scott had not scored fewer than 10 points in a first-to-25 set since October 11, 2016. And the Spartans pinned two on the Lancers in quick succession.” This came after North Scott got routined by Assumption the week prior. In that game’s post-match interview with coach Brian Schubert, he was quite unhappy with his group’s performance. I didn’t plan to stick around after the first two sets against Pleasant Valley. I'd just call him after the Saturday tournament, hoping it would go better. North Scott saved four match points and won the third set 29-27. It won the fourth set 26-24. It won the fifth set 15-11. Good thing Mediacom was there broadcasting the game. We have video evidence that it actually happened. Do the Lancers still qualify for state if they lose this match? Probably. Do the Lancers still win state if they lose this match? Not a chance. This was a season-defining win. It helped the team earn a piece of the MAC title. It helped them stay afloat in the rankings. It showed what was possible when the team appeared in a similar spot against Clear Creek-Amana in the state semifinals. More on that in a bit. No. 2 — Cole Green’s last gasp at state wrestling Sports journalists should not root for the teams and players they cover. We are  to be objective in our coverage. One inevitability, which is human nature, is pulling for good people and good stories. Cole Green’s incredible season led him to the state semifinals, where he instantly dislocated his left shoulder. He wrestled with one arm for the rest of that match and his consolation semifinal Saturday, losing two technical falls by a combined 40-6 score line. He had a sizable black strap on his shoulder Saturday. He came back out for his last match, wrestling for fifth place, and was down 6-1 with 60 seconds left. I still don’t know how, and I couldn't find the video while researching for this column, but Green got two takedowns — his first two takedowns since getting hurt — and dragged the match into overtime. In the crowd behind me, I saw Green’s parents, Tim and Elisa, screaming their hearts out, trying to will their son over the finish line in the last match of his high school career. I’m sure younger brother Zach wasn’t far away. Green lost shortly into overtime. He left everything he had on the mat. It was the single gutsiest performance I saw this year. I was rooting for him to win. “That match for fifth, I’ve never seen anything tougher out of a kid,” coach Drew Kelly told me the next day. This wasn’t the first herculean effort from Green in his senior year. As essentially the fourth quarterback option for the varsity football team, Green and the Lancers got demolished by Xavier in week one. Six days later at Kingston Stadium, Green led the team to a 38-16 win against Cedar Rapids Washington, rushing for 159 yards and accounting for three touchdowns. Even into the spring, I was reminded of the toll that state wrestling took. I saw Green on the sidelines of a few boys’ soccer matches, wearing a shoulder support brace, supporting the team he could not play for. His perseverance and toughness are beyond admirable, and they’ll serve him well beyond the gridiron and mat. They are lessons all of us can learn from, too. No. 1 — Volleyball wins state championship Here in the NSP office, I am infamous for my terrible prep sports predictions. Whatever I say out loud, the opposite tends to happen. I’d like to defend myself by offering two notable exceptions: the 2023 state volleyball final and the 2025 state volleyball final. There was just a feeling I got after watching those two teams all season long, and how they won their semifinals, that they would get the job done in the championship. The 2023 team was notable for its sheer dominance, bludgeoning all the teams in its path. The 2025 team just, simply, never, ever, quit. Heck, I was ready to go home during the Pleasant Valley match. Who would’ve blamed the players, after getting embarrassed by Assumption the week prior, for feeling the same way? In the state quarterfinals, facing a Dallas Center-Grimes team it had lost to twice during the regular season, North Scott saved set points in the first frame and won in four. In the state semifinals, facing top-ranked Clear Creek-Amana, North Scott stood two points from elimination in the fifth set before rolling off five consecutive points to steal the win. In the state championship, facing No. 2 seed Sioux Center, North Scott lost the first set and trailed big in the third set. The Lancers stormed back to win their second state title in three years. 15 wins in a row to end the season. Simply remarkable for a team that finished the year with double-digit losses. It’s cliché, but this truly was the fairytale ending. 10 seniors ending their careers on top. That’s how you do it. It was neat for me as well, starting my fourth year on the beat, getting to know a bunch of the kids over the years, seeing them win the big one in their last rodeo. My first winter here, Kenzie Moeller played in 17 games for the varsity basketball team as a freshman. She’d go on to make three deep state runs with the soccer team, win two state volleyball championships, and be named all-tournament team captain last fall. To the North Scott Athletic Hall of Fame committee members in 2036: don’t wait too long. One of the first times I talked with Adalynn Johnson, in her freshman softball season, was after she crushed a stunning opposite-field go-ahead home run in the regional final at Cedar Rapids Xavier. Johnson had a hand in winning seven state softball tournament games. This year, she qualified for the Drake Relays and won that state shot put medal. I wish she got the chance to go back to Fort Dodge this summer, but it doesn’t take away from a fantastic career. I think on my unofficial list of ‘most interviews given,’ Moeller and Johnson are No. 1 and No. 2. Lucas Persson and Maddy Jepsen are probably No. 3 and No. 4. Those first three are graduated and  probably happy to be rid of me. (Sorry, Maddy, you’re stuck until October). Special shoutouts go to Paige Coon, Addison Allen, and Ainsley Haedt as well. Coon was on those same soccer teams as Moeller starting her freshman year. One of the absolute nicest kids you’ll ever meet. Allen was there from year one, too, qualifying for state on the girls’ track shuttle hurdle team all four years. She made an incredible impact on the volleyball court, becoming North Scott’s single-season assists leader and No. 2 all-time. Haedt was a two-year volleyball starter, but I only first met her last fall for the team captains’ preseason interview. She was a brick wall on the hardwood and gave some great quotes. I ended that week’s story, from Aug. 26, with one. “We want to win it,” Haedt said. “We know how it feels to lose on the big stage. This year, we have some fire in our bellies.”    

“Matt Stone as Elvis: In Person,” August 20

Internationally recognized by Graceland and the Elvis Presley Estate, a popular touring artist brings his Matt Stone as Elvis: In Person stage spectacle to Galesburg's Orpheum Theatre on August 20, the artist hailed for bringing staggering levels of authenticity and attention to detail to his craft, and captivating audiences with flawless recreation of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll in his prime.

Milan pet salon Treats & Trims holding grand opening today

To celebrate the new grooming salon, Treats & Trims is having a grand opening today from 5-7 p.m. at its new facility in Milan.

Dailey & Vincent, August 15

Having already won 20 awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association and 23 from the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America, the Grammy-nominated bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent – composed of guitarists, bassists, and vocalists Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent – will perform music that speaks to faith, family, hope, and the journey they have walked together when their "A Beautiful Life Tour" comes to the University of Dubuque's Heritage Center on August 15.

“Rick Lindy's A Black & White Night: A Salute to the Legendary Roy Orbison,” August 15

With the headliner performing in his four-octave vocal range and backed by some of the nations best musicians, the touring sensation Rick Lindy's A Black & White Night: A Salute to the Legendary Roy Orbison lands at Maquoketa's Ohnward Fine Arts Center on August 15, this exhilaration celebration of the music legend designed to delight audiences of all ages and get them dancing in their seats.

Red, White and Boom! now set for Saturday, Aug. 15

Originally set to take place during the Fourth of July weekend, the event was postponed due to weather.

Floatzilla 2026, August 15

An eagerly awaited day of outdoor fun culminating in an attempt to break a pair of Guinness World Records is set for August 15, when River Action hosts the 17th-annual celebration of paddle sports Floatzilla, with participants and spectators gathering at Rock Island's Sunset Park to see if the Quad Cities can boast the world's “Largest Raft of Canoes and Kayaks” and “Largest Simultaneous Kayak Launch.”

2026 Dino Days, August 15 and 16

Those who love dinosaurs and all things Mesozoic will be in Putnam Museum & Science Center paradise when the venue welcomes families to this year's August 15 and 16 Dino Days – a family-friendly, specialty-ticketed weekend event boasting crafts, activities, a fossil dig, and screenings of the Pixar hit The Good Dinosaur and the international box-office smash Jurassic Park.

The Young Emerging Writers Reading and “THE ATLAS 21” Release Party, August 13

With the Midwest Writing Center's literary magazine THE ATLAS celebrating the publication of its 21st volume, a release party, open-mic night, and KAS concert honoring the Young Emerging Writers (YEW) program will be held at Rock Island venue Rozz-Tox on August 13, the evening boasting readings from YEW alumni and copies of new and back issues of THE ATLAS available for purchase.

“Marlee Matlin Live at the Putnam,” August 19

On August 19, Putnam Museum & Science Center patrons will be privileged to share an evening with Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin when the star of Children of a Lesser God and Best Picture winner CODA delivers a keynote address in tandem with a screening of I Am disABLEd.

“Stand & Deliver,” August 19

Presented as a special event in the Quad Cities Latino Cinema Series, the Oscar-nominated inspirational-teacher drama Stand & Deliver enjoys an August 19 screening at Davenport venue The Last Picture House, writer/director Ramón Menéndez's 1988 film the winner of the Independent Spirit Award for Best Feature, and a work selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

“Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” August 20 through 30

Lauded by the New York Daily News as "consistently entertaining" and by Newsday as "a major treat," Steve Martin's hit comedy Picasso at the Lapin Agile enjoys an August 20 through 30 run at Geneseo's Richmond Hill Barn Theatre, the New York Post adding to the praise by calling the show "highly credible" and "very funny" with "giggles in plenty [and] moments of enlightenment."

The Mockingbird at Black Hawk's “Death of a Salesman,” August 20 through 29

A dramatic landmark whose 2026 Broadway return recently won six Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Play, Arthur Miller's timeless Death of a Salesman serves as the debut production in a new collaboration between the Mockingbird on Main and Black Hawk College, the show's August 20 through 29 run at Black Hawk treating audiences to an undisputed classic playing locally fewer than two weeks after its New York run ended.

NAACP, LULAC hosting Iowa legislative candidate forum

Metrocom NAACP Unit 4019 and LULAC Council 10 invite Iowa voters to attend a nonpartisan Iowa Legislative Candidates Forum on Saturday, August 22, at the Eastern Avenue Library, 600 Eastern Avenue in Davenport. Voters will hear directly from candidates seeking election to the Iowa State Senate and Iowa House of Representatives representing Scott County. Two [...]

Trinity Rock Island pick-up, drop-off locations change for road repairs

Starting Tuesday vehicles aren’t able to access the main hospital or the Trinity Heart Center’s entrance due to road repairs, according to a media release.

Texas Roadhouse coming to Moline

Moline sold property to Texas Roadhouse at 3620 38th Ave., the road north of John Deere Road for $800,000.

'It's just so fun to make people laugh,' says 'Hacks' star Jean Smart

"The fifth and final season of the HBO Max series Hacks is nominated for 24 Emmys, including one for Smart as best actress in a comedy series. The writers "raised the bar every single season," Smart says."

The soaring demand for Patriot missiles, from the Middle East to Ukraine

The U.S. and its partners depend on Patriot interceptors to shoot down incoming ballistic missiles. But Russia and Iran are firing their weapons at rates far higher than Patriots can be produced.

Quad-Cities area students sign for first cohort of manufacturing apprenticeship program

They will be working at regional manufacturing companies such as LMT Defense, West Liberty Foods, Amcor and others.

UnityPoint Trinity Rock Island lot partially closed due to road work

This week, patients of UnityPoint Health — Trinity in Rock Island should be aware of road work ongoing in the lot and use the emergency entrance for pick up and drop offs until Aug. 7.

Dobro master with Alison Krauss to return to Davenport for 9/11 anniversary

Veteran dobro and lap steel guitar player Jerry Douglas will return to Davenport’s Adler Theatre with Alison Krauss & Union Station for a concert on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Sept. 11, 2026.

Red, White & Boom to make a bang at Alternating Currents festival

Red, White & Boom will now take place on Saturday, Aug. 15 at 9:30 p.m. during the Alternating Currents festival.

Senate Democrats say banks turned blind eye to suspicious moves by Jeffrey Epstein

A report from Senate Democrats accuses big banks of failing to report suspicious money transfers made by Jeffrey Epstein until after his arrest in 2019.

New date announced for Red, White and Boom!

There’s a new date for fireworks on the Mississippi River between Davenport and Rock Island. The annual Red, White and Boom! fireworks show has been rescheduled to Saturday, August 15, during the Alternating Currents festival. The fireworks start at 9:30 p.m., launching from two barges on the Mississippi River between downtown Davenport and Rock Island. [...]

Person killed in crash outside of Tipton, Iowa

One person died after a crash involving a car and a semi-truck Monday morning near Tipton. The Iowa State Patrol is investigating.

1 person killed in Cedar County crash

One person has died following a two-vehicle crash in Cedar County on Monday.

Davenport man pleads guilty to trafficking in meth in plea agreement

His sentencing hearing has been set for Nov. 18.

Construction limits access to UnityPoint Health-Trinity, Rock Island

Road repairs on the UnityPoint Health – Trinity Rock Island campus mean vehicles cannot access the main hospital or Trinity Heart Center entrance. Patients are asked to use the emergency department entrance for pickup and drop-off until repairs are complete. Visitor and handicapped parking lots remain accessible and the hospital entrance and emergency department remain [...]

Europe heat wave fuels drought, fires and energy fears

Europe's heat wave exposes buried history and new threats — Nazi-era wrecks emerge from the Danube, nuclear reactors face cooling risks, and Greece battles deadly wildfires.

Davenport man wins record-breaking Iowa InstaPlay jackpot of over $545,000

Davenport resident Jered Sandry won a record $545,153 InstaPlay jackpot with a ticket purchased at the Kimberly Road Hy-Vee, the Iowa Lottery reports.

Red, White and Boom rescheduled

Red, White and Boom has been rescheduled to Aug. 15.