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

Monday, April 20th, 2026
	Sacred Places This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.A few days ago, I stopped in at a New Age bookstore and coffee house near Rock Island to browse.On one shelf I found a…
	Who owns presidential records? Trump's Justice Department says it's him The Trump administration asserts a nearly 50-year-old law requiring the preservation of presidential records is unconstitutional. Historians warn important papers could be destroyed.
	Spanish speakers learn strategies to pass English-only driving test in Florida A new English-only driving test rule in Florida is fueling a surge in strategy lessons for Spanish speakers where they learn to figure out the questions without having to take English language courses.
	Taking the Barn by Storm: “The Charitable Sisterhood of the Second Trinity Victory Church,” at the Richmond Hill Barn Theatre through April 26 It felt almost like kismet that The Charitable Sisterhood of the Second Trinity Victory Church unfolded during a wild storm that washed out a bridge and stranded its ladies at the church, because the chaos outside mirrored what was happening on stage.
	Data center disputes have been local. But the midterms might change that Anger over the data center boom has spilled into politics with voters unseating local politicians who support them. It's become an issue hard to ignore in the midterm elections.
	Got wearable data? Your doctor can help you connect the dots The American Academy of Neurology issued guidance on using wearable data devices, like smart watches or Oura rings, to track key health metrics that can help flag serious conditions.
	The Sonoran Desert teems with wildlife. These 3D scans could help protect its future A new art exhibit in Phoenix features some of the world's prickliest plants. It could also help save them.
	Freeze Warning until MON 9:00 AM CDT Freeze Warning in Effect Until 9 AM CDT: Protect Sensitive Plants
	A humanoid robot sprints past the human half-marathon world record in Beijing race The winner from Honor, a Chinese smartphone maker, completed the race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, running faster than the human world record in a show of China's technological leaps.
	U.K police investigating if attacks in London are the work of Iranian proxies U.K. police said Sunday they are investigating whether a string of arson attacks on Jewish sites in London are the work of Iranian proxies, the latest of which caused minor damage on Saturday night.
Sunday, April 19th, 2026
	First responders face Special Olympians in basketball fundraiser Organizers said their goal is to raise at least $5,000 to help this cause.
	Money Management: The Importance of Financial Literacy (Feature Impact) You may have mastered the core subjects like math and grammar in school, but financial literacy - or understanding the basics of money management in order to help you make better financial decisions - often goes overlooked before adulthood. It's not so much a course of study as it is a plan of action. Financial literacy in the United States has remained stagnant at generally low levels for several years, according to research from TIAA Institute and the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center, with even lower levels among Gen Z. Yet greater financial literacy - including key aspects such as goal-setting, budgeting, saving, credit management and investing - is strongly linked to better financial outcomes, including lower rates of debt constraint and financial fragility. While emboldening yourself to understand financial terms can be a little overwhelming at first, once you have a grasp of basic concepts you can begin to get a handle on your money and make better financial decisions. Simply put: When you understand how to earn, save, spend and invest wisely, you aren't just building a stable future for yourself, but your family and community as well. From nonprofit partnerships to volunteer-led programs and fee online resources, Schwab and its employees help millions of people every year build the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their financial futures by serving as board members, mentors, role models and educators. Because financial health is a lifelong journey, the earlier people learn vital money skills, the better. That's why the financial advisory services provider develops education programs geared toward kids that continue into adulthood, helping people no matter where they are on their journeys. Talk Money It's never too early to start a conversation about financial literacy. Having teens identify goals that are important to them - such as concert tickets or a first car - can kickstart coversations about money. Working with your child (and a financial advisor, if necessary) on a plan for saving to realize those goals can serve as a jumping off point. After achieving some success, their enthusiasm may grow, which is a powerful motivator to keep saving. Support School Initiatives and Programs Outreach programs that empower young people to make smart financial decisions is key to a bright future. Programs like Money Matters - Schwab's flagship financial education program utilized by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America - gives young people hands-on experience with all aspects of money and investing. This example, and others, don't just include program funding - they build partnerships that create impact and opportunity with national collaborations that reach more than 17 million youth annually, empowering young people with the tools and confidence to make smart financial decisions for life. Spread the Financial Love Championing financial literacy empowers everyone - individuals, families and communities. By serving as a board member, mentor, role model or educator to help bring financial literacy to others in your community, you can supply the tools and knowledge to lead programs that focus on giving back, empowering future generations in countless ways. To learn more about financial literacy and find resources to empower your local community, visit SchwabMoneywise.com. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
	Meet the Red Kiwi Everyone's Talking About This Spring Zespri (Feature Impact) While spring may be a season of fresh starts, your reset doesn't have to include a closet clean-out or juice cleanse. Sometimes the easiest upgrade is simply adding something new, fresh and unexpectedly delicious to your plate - and when something as unique and exciting as a red kiwi hits stores, it's the kind of spring discovery you have to try. Enter Zespri RubyRed Kiwifruit, the berry-sweet seasonal fruit dietitians are already excited about, and one you'll only find in stores for a limited time this spring. With its naturally vibrant ruby-red center and sweet flavor that tastes like a cross between a kiwi and berries, it's quickly becoming one of the most talked-about fruits in the produce aisle. Beyond its striking color, it delivers antioxidant vitamin C along with anthocyanins - the beneficial plant nutrients that naturally give red fruits their signature hue. Plus, it makes it easy for families to add more whole-fruit nutrition to everyday routines. Naturally sweet and simple to prepare, it's a kid-friendly snack parents can feel good about serving on its own or adding to breakfast bowls, lunchboxes and quick spring recipes. Registered dietitian Lauren Manaker said it's exactly the kind of simple upgrade people are looking for this time of year. "I love recommending foods that make healthy choices feel effortless, and Zespri RubyRed Kiwifruit is a great example," Manaker said. "It's naturally sweet, visually beautiful and a nutrient-dense fruit that delivers antioxidant vitamin C in every bite. Adding foods like kiwi to your routine is an easy - and delicious - way to boost the overall nutritional quality of your day." Forget restrictive resets. Adding one colorful, crave-worthy fruit to your routine can be a smarter - and more enjoyable - place to start. Simple Ways to Enjoy Kiwi This Spring Easy to enjoy on its own - just slice and scoop - RubyRed Kiwifruit also makes everyday meals a little more special. For a quick breakfast or snack, try layering sliced kiwi into a yogurt parfait with Greek yogurt and granola. The berry-sweet flavor pairs perfectly with creamy textures and adds a refreshing seasonal twist. Or finish a warm spring day with Red Kiwi Ice Pops. Blended with fruit juice and frozen with fresh slices of kiwi, they're simple, colorful treats that feel just as fun for adults as they do for kids. A Seasonal Find Worth Grabbing While You Can Part of the excitement: it isn't around for long. This limited-time seasonal fruit is available in stores nationwide through May, so it's one you'll want to grab while you can. Visit Zespri.com/RubyRed to find a store near you and explore more recipes before the season ends. Red Kiwi Yogurt Parfait 2 Zespri RubyRed Kiwifruit 1 cup Greek yogurt 1/3 cup nutty granola Dice one kiwi and thinly slice one. In bottom of tall glass, layer 1/4 cup yogurt, kiwi and granola. Continue layering with remaining ingredients. Red Kiwi Ice Pops 4 Zespri RubyRed Kiwifruit, peeled pineapple juice (or fruit juice of choice) Dice three kiwis into small cubes. Thinly slice remaining kiwi and reserve. In blender, blend kiwi cubes and pineapple juice until smooth. Put sliced kiwi in ice pop mold and pour juice mixture over top. Freeze until chilled.
	Fresh Start, Fresh Planet: 5 Steps to Reduce Waste During Spring Cleaning (Feature Impact) As the days get longer and the weather improves, many people often find the motivation to refresh their homes - and their habits. Spring cleaning is a perfect opportunity to reset, reorganize and make small changes that can help the planet. What's more, these changes are simple to implement and can even earn you some extra cash. Consider these five easy waste-reduction tips from the experts at CalRecycle to help you jump into the season feeling organized and eco-friendly. 1. Recycle Kitchen Waste As you clear out expired or forgotten food, sort items for maximum impact: Remove plastic and non-compostable packaging and put spoiled or freezer-burned food into your green bin. These scraps can be turned into compost and clean energy, helping cut methane emissions from landfills. Toss empty, dry recyclables, including condiment bottles, glass jars, metal cans and plastic food containers, into your blue bin. 2. Cash in Empty Beverage Containers Cleaning out your home may uncover some empty or forgotten beverage containers. Empty out leftover liquids and take eligible beverage containers for soda, water, juice, wine and distilled spirits to your nearest recycling site for cash back. Every California Redemption Value (CRV) beverage container you recycle saves resources and puts money back in your pocket. If you're short on time, donate your empty CRV beverage containers to your favorite nonprofit organization. Set up a separate bin just for eligible beverage containers and drop them off for donation when it's full. 3. Give Clothes and Household Items a Second Life Dig into your closets and shelves to see what you can repair, repurpose or donate. Fix a missing button, turn old fabric into cleaning rags or give gently used items to a local free-exchange group or thrift store to reduce textile waste. Simple steps like these can keep usable items out of the landfill and help someone else put them to good use. 4. Declutter Paper and Electronics Recycle junk mail, magazines and newspapers in your blue bin. Remove any plastic windows, wrap or stickers first. If you shred documents, place the shredded paper inside a paper bag before recycling. Bonus tip: Switching to digital statements and bills can help prevent paper clutter in the first place. Old electronics and used batteries don't belong in the trash. Gather them from drawers and cabinets then take them to an e-waste drop-off site or local household hazardous waste collection center for safe handling. 5. Refresh the Bathroom When restocking soaps or cleaners, look for products that offer refillable containers (especially reusable glass and aluminum ones). It's a simple way to cut down on plastic waste. When you finish bottles of shampoo, conditioner, soap or cleaning sprays, make sure they land in your recycling bin after you empty them out. Swap out single-use paper towels for washable cloths or rags. They're reusable, durable and kinder to the environment. For more details, CRV redemption locations and food scrap recycling tips, visit RecyclingReimaginedCA.com. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
	Sustainably Sourced Staples for Family Favorites (Feature Impact) Living sustainably might include habits like recycling or composting, but you can go above and beyond by using food ingredients that are environmentally friendly. As a pioneer in humane and sustainable meat, Niman Ranch recently launched a Regenerative Organic Certified beef program sourced entirely from U.S. family ranches covering 105,000 acres today and with a roadmap to reach 250,000 acres by 2028. Simply put, "regenerative" is a soil-first approach to farming that restores the earth rather than depleting it. This program bridges the gap between environmental stewardship and steakhouse-quality flavor so you can enjoy meals like a Seared Strip Loin with Linguini or Vietnamese Caramelized Beef Bowls. The program sets the standard for a sustainable future in several ways: Supporting American Ranchers: 100% U.S. grass-fed and finished, it provides a vital premium market for domestic family ranchers when over 95% of organic beef is currently imported. Steakhouse Quality Meets the Gold Standard: By pairing elite angus genetics with Regenerative Organic Certified's rigorous standards, the program delivers USDA-graded Choice and Prime marbling - a flavor and tenderness rarely found in the organic market. Healing the Land: Through "high-frequency rotational grazing," Niman Ranch cattle are moved across pastures in a way that restores soil health and promotes biodiversity. Learn more by visiting NimanRanch.com. Seared Strip Loin with Linguini Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes 1 Niman Ranch Strip Loin Steak (6-8 ounces) 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional to taste, divided 1 box (16 ounces) linguini 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cups chopped fennel 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1/3 cup chopped Castelvetrano (green) olives 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 orange, zest and juice only 1 goat cheese log (4 ounces) 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish pepper, to taste Pat steak dry and season generously with kosher salt. Heat grill pan or grill to medium-high heat. Grill steak until medium-rare (135-140 F), turning halfway through cooking, about 8 minutes total. Set aside. Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining linguini in colander. In same pasta pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook fennel, red pepper flakes and 1 teaspoon kosher salt over medium heat, stirring, until fennel is tender, 5-6 minutes. Add chopped olives, garlic and orange zest. Stir in orange juice and stir to combine. Set aside. Return drained linguini to pot. Crumble goat cheese on top and add reserved pasta water. Stir until pasta is evenly coated. Serve with slices of steak on top and garnish with fresh parsley. Vietnamese Caramelized Beef Bowls Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes 1 package (8 ounces) rice vermicelli noodles Beef: 2 cloves garlic, grated 1 thumb ginger, peeled and grated 2 tablespoons fish sauce 4 teaspoons light brown sugar 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1 pound Niman Ranch ground beef 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Dressing: 4 tablespoons soy sauce 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons lemongrass paste 2 tablespoons light brown sugar 2 teaspoons sriracha or hot sauce (optional) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Salad: 8 ounces butter lettuce leaves 8 ounces carrots, peeled and sliced into matchsticks 1 English cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly crosswise into half-moons 1 bunch fresh mint 1 bunch cilantro chopped roasted and unsalted peanuts 1 lime, cut into wedges Cook vermicelli noodles according to package directions. Set aside. To prepare beef: In medium bowl, whisk garlic, ginger, fish sauce, brown sugar, lemongrass paste and lime juice until blended. Add beef and mix until well blended. Marinate 15 minutes. In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Add beef and cook, breaking up using wooden spoon and stirring occasionally, until beef is dark and caramelized, 10-12 minutes. To make dressing: In small bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, lemongrass paste, brown sugar and sriracha, if desired. Whisk until sugar dissolves. Slowly stream in vegetable oil, whisking, until dressing is thickened. To prepare salads: Divide noodles between four shallow bowls. Arrange caramelized beef, lettuce, carrots, cucumber, mint and cilantro in bowls then drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with peanuts. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing on top.
	Turn a Parent's Love into Lifesaving Impact with Gifts That Give Back Globally (Feature Impact) A parent's love knows no limits. Across the globe, mothers and fathers do everything in their power to protect their children and give them the chance to grow up safe and strong. This year, celebrate that love with meaningful gifts that gives back. Through UNICEF Market and Inspired Gifts, you can honor a mother, father or caregiver while helping the United Nations Children's Fund deliver lifesaving support to children across 190 countries and territories - from Lebanon to Gaza, Sudan and beyond. They represent tangible interventions that help deliver safe water, strengthen education systems, provide critical services and protect children from preventable diseases. Lifesaving Nutrition Invented 30 years ago, Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) is a low-cost, innovative option to treat child wasting. Each year, UNICEF delivers nearly 1 billion sachets of RUTF, reaching more than 9 million children across every continent: from the Pacific to the Sahel and South Asia to Latin America. Nine out of 10 children treated with RUTF make a full recovery, often within weeks. Gifting 150 Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food Packets provides a child with a two month's supply of RUTF. "For three decades, RUTF has helped save millions of children suffering from severe acute malnutrition around the world," said UNICEF USA President and CEO, Michael J. Nyenhuis. "As we mark this milestone, we celebrate the lives saved and the progress made - and recommit to building a future where every child has access to the quality nutrition they need not only to survive, but to thrive." Maternal and Newborn Care Support new moms with a gift that gives newborn babies a chance for a better start in life. These Newborn Kits packages contain blankets, prenatal supplements for 20 new moms and essential vaccines to protect babies against measles, polio, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. In addition, the Mom and Baby Care bundle contains essential medications to assist with a smooth and safe delivery as well as newborn antibiotics aimed at helping reduce the risk of perinatal asphyxia, neonatal infections and prematurity. Artisan Gifts From a Peruvian-made Adjustable Leather Sling Bag designed for versatility that also provides 112 packets of lifesaving nourishment to children around the world suffering from malnutrition to a handcrafted Talavera-Style Vase from Mexico that provides 21 doses of measles vaccine, UNICEF Market artisan goods blend craftsmanship with purpose. Each purchase delivers lifesaving nutrition, vaccines and essential services for children around the world. Partner Gifts Children of the world are too often at risk, exposed to conflicts, diseases and natural disasters that threaten their safety and well-being. Since 2016, Louis Vuitton has helped protect these children through its partnership with UNICEF, creating a dedicated Silver LockIt Collection in support of the organization's work, and more than $24 million has been donated through this initiative. In collaboration with House Ambassador and UNICEF Korea Goodwill Ambassador Felix, a new design is engraved with the word "DREAM," representing every child's right to grow, live and learn in a nurturing environment with access to education, health care and protection. For each piece purchased, a donation will be made to help deliver lifesaving assistance and education to children in urgent need around the world. Learn more at us.louisvuitton.com. This year, celebrate mothers, fathers and caregivers with more than a gift. Celebrate them with an act of generosity through UNICEF Market and Inspired Gifts that transform gratitude into action and love into lifesaving impact. To dedicate a personalized gift in their honor, visit market.unicefusa.org.
	Balance Your Plate with Produce, Protein and Whole Grains (Feature Impact) Making health-conscious decisions with your at-home menu doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require commitment and a little more foresight at the grocery store. Simple adjustments to overall eating patterns, like building your plate around produce, powerful proteins and whole grains, can encourage better health. Nutritious meal-planning can be easy, affordable and delicious – and it all starts with a little balance. Consider this advice from the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative, nationally sponsored by the Egg Nutrition Center, to adequately round out a healthy plate. Fill Half Your Plate with Fruits and Veggies Loaded with nutrients, fresh produce is a perfect place to start each plate. Fill about half your plate with combinations of bananas, strawberries, blueberries, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots and more of your favorites. To boost variety with each meal, look for fruit and veggie blends or step out of your usual routine and try something new. Grocery tip: Frozen fruits and veggies are often cheaper and just as delicious as their fresh counterparts. It’s frozen right after it’s picked, locking in freshness for a longer shelf life. Just be sure to avoid products with added salt or sugar. Carve Out a Quarter of the Plate for Powerful Proteins Healthy food isn’t just fuel. It should be easy and nourish you, too. Look for versatile solutions that provide a protein power-up like skinless chicken breast, no-salt-added beans, low-sodium tuna, tofu or eggs. High-quality protein from foods, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help support the muscles in your body. Eggs are an example, along with lean animal protein and some plant-based proteins. According to the American Heart Association’s guidelines, healthy people can include up to one whole egg daily, and up to seven per week, as part of a heart-healthy diet. For older adults with normal cholesterol, two eggs per day is acceptable. Eggs deliver both protein and choline, nutrients that help support growing brains and bodies, especially early in life. In fact, many Americans don’t get enough choline, a critical nutrient for supporting brain development, memory and mood. Grocery tip: Stock up on proteins that offer both versatility and affordability, helping you cook multiple meals per week without putting a dent in your wallet. Eggs are a perfect example as they can be used at any meal, not just breakfast – try them in wraps or omelets in the morning, hard-boil them to go with a lunchtime salad or add to a frittata at dinner. Save a Corner for Whole Grains Finally, fill that last quarter of the plate with ready-to-go whole grains, many of which provide dietary fiber that can support a healthy heart and healthy digestion. Conversely, most refined grains contain little or no fiber. Examples of whole grains include barley, brown rice, corn, oatmeal, rolled or steel-cut oats, popcorn, quinoa, sorghum and wild rice, along with products labeled “whole grain” or “whole wheat” like bread or pasta. Grocery tip: Look for whole grains that can make mealtime a cinch. Corn tortillas, instant oats and even popcorn can help you create nutritious plates and better-for-you snacks with the snap of your fingers. Try keeping packets of pre-cooked brown rice on hand to bulk up favorite dishes or toss with leftovers to round out a healthy plate. Visit Heart.org to discover more nutrition guidance for heart-healthy meals. 3 Tips to Complement a Healthy, Balanced Plate Nutrition isn’t just about what’s on your plate – it’s also about what’s next to it and how much is on it. Pair a balanced meal with this advice to help take healthy eating to the next level. Stay Hydrated If it’s not already a habit, add a glass of water to each meal. Staying hydrated helps your heart pump blood throughout the body, get rid of waste and regulate body temperature. While water is the best source of hydration, water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables can also play a role. Watch Portion Sizes Pay attention to suggested servings from your favorite food groups. For example, one slice of whole-grain bread, 1/2 cup of cooked pasta and two ounces of cheese (about the size of a domino) are the suggested serving sizes for these popular foods. You can serve and eat smaller portions by: When cooking at home, offer the proper serving size to each family member then put extra food away for leftovers. When dining out, skip appetizers and split your meal with a friend or partner. Avoid eating while watching TV or at your computer. It may be harder to control how much you’re eating if you’re not paying full attention. Mindfully measure out your snacks – even fruits and veggies – into appropriate portions before serving instead of helping yourself directly from the bag or box. Limit Salt While sodium supports vital functions like controlling your body’s fluid balance, excess sodium in your bloodstream pulls water into the blood vessels, increasing the amount of blood inside them and thus increasing blood pressure. More than 70% of the sodium people eat comes from packaged, prepared and restaurant foods due to salt added for flavoring, stabilizing, preserving and reducing bacterial risk, according to the American Heart Association. Cutting back on sodium can help reduce the rise in blood pressure that occurs as you age, even if you don’t have high blood pressure now. It may also help reduce the risk of heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease and more. Try cooking more meals at home where you can control sodium intake, flavoring foods with herbs and spices instead of table salt and rinsing canned beans and vegetables to wash away excess sodium. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (family preparing meal)
	Illinois lawmakers advance slate of bills ahead of chamber deadline SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) -- Illinois lawmakers moved a wide-ranging group of bills out of their respective chambers ahead of their Friday deadline. The measures now head to their opposite ends of the General Assembly for further consideration, as they approach the end of spring session on May 31. Here’s a look at some of the [...]
	High school sophomore builds memorial at Rock Island Arsenal A Bettendorf High School sophomore has earned scouting’s highest honor after leading the construction of a memorial honoring military families.
	High school sophomore builds memorial at Rock Island Arsenal A Bettendorf High School sophomore has earned scouting’s highest honor after leading the construction of a memorial honoring military families.
	Explosion reported during East Moline house fire The victim's condition and the cause of the fire remains unknown.
	Where are Davenport’s speed cabinets going to be? A list of where Davenport's speed cabinets and speed van will be this week.
	Sheffield Summer Festival returns for third year A once-ended tradition is back in Sheffield, as a community-funded festival returns for its third year.
	One dead following Bettendorf house fire One person is dead following a house fire in Bettendorf. According to a release from the City of Bettendorf, the Bettendorf Fire and Police Departments responded to a 911 call of a house fire April 19 at approximately 2:02 p.m. at the 3000 block of Bellevue Ave. A neighbor and responding police officer entered the [...]
	1 dead after a house fire in Bettendorf A 76-yeard-old male has died after a house fire occurred on the 300 block of Bellevue Avenue in Bettendorf.
	1 dead after Bettendorf house fire The Bettendorf Fire and Police Department responded to a house fire on the 300 block of Bellevue Avenue that left one dead.
	Freeze warning tonight, but things warming up Things have cooled down quite a bit since those storms from Friday night with afternoon temperatures falling to the low to mid 50s. So much so that tonight and early tomorrow morning with be under a freeze warning due to the shift in colder temperatures in the upper 20s and low 30s. But it will [...]
	Programming Alert: No 5 or 10 p.m. newscasts Sunday There will be no 5 p.m. or 10 p.m. newscasts Sunday night due to NBA Basketball on NBC.
	Communities launch cleanup after severe weather and tornadoes churn across Midwest At least 66 tornado reports were submitted across multiple states on Friday, according to the National Weather Service.
	Three students among five wounded in shooting at Iowa City Ped Mall No arrests have been made yet.
	Home damaged in East Moline fire A home was damaged in a fire in East Moline Sunday afternoon.
	76-year-old man dies after Bettendorf house fire on Sunday The fire was reported in the 3000 block of Bellevue Avenue at about 2:02 p.m. on Sunday.
	Man dies in Bettendorf house fire A man is dead after a house fire in Bettendorf Sunday afternoon.
	Crews respond to Bettendorf house fire Firefighters from Bettendorf and the Rock Island Arsenal are on scene of a house fire
	Ex-Quad-City, Anaheim Angels outfielder Garret Anderson dies at 53 Garret Anderson, the multitalented outfielder who became the Los Angeles Angels' career hits leader and led the Anaheim Angels to their only World Series title, has died. He was 53. Anderson played 105 games with the 1991 Quad City Angels, hitting .260 with 102 hits and 42 RBIs. Angels is a previous name of the [...]
	Ped Mall reopens hours after Sunday shooting in Iowa City Police say there is no current threat to the public.
	QC Business Showcase: Hob Nosh ’26 welcomes the community April 22 QC Business Showcase: Hob Nosh ’26 welcomes the community April 22, booths and special incentives available.
	Eight children killed in a shooting in Louisiana, police say The victims ranged in age from one to about 14 years old, said Shreveport, Louisiana police spokesperson Chris Bordelon. A total of 10 people were shot.
	8 children killed in a shooting in Louisiana, police say The victims ranged in age from 1 to about 14 years old, said Shreveport, La., police spokesperson Chris Bordelon. A total of 10 people were shot.
	Barbara Flynn Currie, 40-year veteran of Illinois House, trailblazer for women, dies at 85 Former Illinois House Majority Leader Barbara Flynn Currie, who served 40 years in the General Assembly, died Thursday at age 85.
	West Carroll superintendent addresses students, families after students witness tornado in Lena The West Carroll superintendent is addressing the West Carroll community after students attending a music competition in Lena encountered a tornado.
	Officials: 5 injured, including 3 University of Iowa students in shooting at Ped Mall near university The Iowa City Police Department is investigating a shooting that happened early Sunday morning at the Ped Mall near the University of Iowa campus.
	‘Just wonderful’: USC musicians perform at Congaree National Park for country’s 250th birthday The Fuse Woodwind Quintet, composed of Molly Damitio on flute, Jonathan Krause on oboe, Elle Senn on bassoon, Connor Hammond on French horn and Jennifer Saavedra Tovar on clarinet, performs at Congaree National Park near Columbia, South Carolina, on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette)HOPKINS — The birds that usually sing at Congaree National Park had accompaniment Saturday from jazz musicians, saxophonists, singers and woodwinds. The music, performed by ensembles of University of South Carolina students, commemorated two anniversaries: the nation’s founding 250 years ago and the national park’s initial designation under federal protection 50 years ago. First preserved in 1976 as Congaree Swamp National Monument, the 26,000-acre park at the southern end of Richland County was renamed in 2003. Stationed along a half-mile portion of the park’s iconic 2.6-mile boardwalk, four groups of musicians performed for dozens of people over the course of two hours. Some hikers stopped to take in entire sets, which the ensembles played on repeat for new visitors. Others paused for a moment or moseyed on, venturing further into a swamp awash with the sound of music. Onlookers watch as the USC Choral Ensemble, directed by Alicia Walker, performs at Congaree National Park in Richland County on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) On a bench between a woodwind quintet and the 11-member choir, where the music overlapped, Sherry Stormant leaned back on a bench, taking it all in. The 70-year-old drove about two hours from her home in Huger, a small community near Mount Pleasant, after seeing a post about the event on Facebook, she said. The idea of listening to classical music while in a national park seemed so pleasant, Stormant knew she had to give it a try, she said. Saturday’s performances did not disappoint her. “It’s just wonderful,” Stormant said. “It’s almost overwhelming, it’s just so beautiful and touching. Everybody’s face has a certain serenity to it.” Near the visitor’s center at the park’s main entrance — 18 miles southeast of USC’s main campus — a jazz band played selections of various tunes. Where the boardwalk widened, a quartet of saxophonists played a series of songs, including “Amazing Grace” and a suite of ragtime music, another American-formed genre. Both the quartet and the choir, stationed on a trail just off the boardwalk, performed versions of “Simple Gifts,” the tune written by the Shakers, a religious group that came to America to escape persecution in 1774. Those pieces were meant to represent various parts of American culture, said Allister Frankle, a second-year doctoral student in saxophone performance, who played the soprano saxophone Saturday. Allister Frankle plays soprano saxophone as part of the USC Saxophone Quartet at Congaree National Park near Columbia, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) “There’s a bunch of different music happening that we (as Americans) have associated with us, whether it’s jazz or popular music or esteemed classical music,” Frankle said. “We’re very much a cultural center of a lot of different arts, so this is a great opportunity to share that.” The university and national park partnered for a similar event last spring, when bassoonists played different parts of the same song throughout the forest as a way of representing the interconnectedness of nature. That got staff at the park and school of music talking about another performance, this time in celebration of the country’s founding, said Elle Senn, a third-year doctoral candidate in bassoon performance who helped organize the event. Playing at South Carolina’s only national park was a way of meeting people where they’re at, Senn said. Traditional sit-down performances generally draw the same crowds every time, since newcomers might feel intimidated or simply not want to sit still for that long. Going for a walk at Congaree could introduce new groups of people to the music, either because it’s less commitment than a full-length concert or because they happened upon the performances while out for a hike, she said. “I hope people see that music, even classical music, is a lot more accessible than it may seem,” Senn said. Santi Balagtas plays a trumpet solo as part of the Butterfield Combo’s performance at Congaree National Park near Columbia, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) The Fuse Woodwind Quintet, which Senn oversees as artistic director, performed Antonin Dvořak’s string quartet “American,” written in 1893 as a celebration of the composer’s visit to Iowa, while standing in the underbrush just off the boardwalk, surrounded by cypress trees and swamp. That should be proof enough that “we are willing to play literally anywhere” if it means exposing people to new music, Senn said, pointing out her muddy boots. That accessibility drew Tyler Farley out to the park Saturday. The Lexington resident wants to expose her 4-year-old daughter, Emilia, to as much nature and culture as possible, and Saturday’s event seemed like the perfect chance to do both at the same time, she said. Concert tickets aren’t always affordable, especially with a 4-year-old who’s unlikely to sit still for that long, so Farley jumped at the chance to show her daughter live music for free, she said. “It’s a lot of just showing her a lot of new things at one time,” Farley said. “It’s an experience, and I’m hoping that when we leave here, she’ll want to call my parents and talk about it, call her dad and talk about it — something that sparks some spark in her, ignites something.” For Emilia, who wants to be a ballerina when she grows up, the music gave her a reason to dance. “It was just great,” Emilia said of the performances, dancing along. “I want to make them feel great about me dancing.” Seeing people’s response, whether they were discussing the performances, listening quietly or, indeed, dancing, did make the musicians feel great, Senn said. “It really does warm my heart,” she said. Thomas Bridgmon plays trumpet as part of the Butterfield Combo jazz band at Congaree National Park southeast of Columbia, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) Ryan Johnson, on tenor saxophone, Meng-Yung Weng, on alto saxophone, and Ryan Conteras, on baritone saxophone, perform as part of the USC Saxophone Quartet at Congaree National Park in Hopkins, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) Onlookers stop to watch the Fuse Woodwind Quintet play "American" by Antonin Dvorak at Congaree National Park in Richland County, South Carolina, on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) The Fuse Woodwind Quintet, composed of Molly Damitio on flute, Jonathan Krause on oboe, Elle Senn on bassoon, Connor Hammond on French horn and Jennifer Saavedra Tovar on clarinet, performs at Congaree National Park in Hopkins, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) Ryan Johnson plays tenor saxophone as part of the USC Saxophone Quartet at Congaree National Park in Hopkins, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) The USC Choral Ensemble performs Congaree National Park in Hopkins, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) Dennis Heaven plays the double bass as part of the Butterfield Combo at Congaree National Park in Hopkins, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) Onlookers watch as the USC Choral Ensemble, directed by Alicia Walker, performs at Congaree National Park near Columbia, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) Jayden Moreno plays a saxophone solo as Santi Balagtas, another member of the Butterfield Combo, looks on at Congaree National Park near Columbia, S.C., on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo by Skylar Laird/SC Daily Gazette) { "@context": "http://schema.org", "@type" : "ImageGallery", "id" : "https://scdailygazette.com/2026/04/19/just-wonderful-usc-musicians-perform-at-congaree-national-park-for-countrys-250th-birthday/", "url" : "https://scdailygazette.com/2026/04/19/just-wonderful-usc-musicians-perform-at-congaree-national-park-for-countrys-250th-birthday/" } Courtesy of South Carolina Daily Gazette
	Energy demand in ComEd territory could double by 2040, in part driven by data centers Representatives from Ameren and Commonwealth Edison, Illinois’ major electric supply companies, said a majority, though not all, of the large load projects in their queues are data centers.
	5 injured, including students, in shooting near the University of Iowa The investigation remains ongoing.
	Clucking egg prices as of 4/17/26 Here’s this week’s egg price update. This is the USDA’s average price per dozen when delivered to the warehouse on Jan. 20, 2026, compared to where prices are now. To see the price, click on the video above. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and [...]
	FISA Section 702 renewal not a slam dunk in Congress One of the most controversial intelligence tools utilized by the federal government might disappear, Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). Section 702 has been around since 2008. It lets the government spy on foreigners abroad but can track the communications of Americans who speak with any targets under surveillance. Critics take the [...]
	Tougher animal torture law in Iowa in doubt despite broad agreement A bill to get tougher on people who torture animals in Iowa might be losing momentum, and Illinois might get tougher on insurance companies that try to raise prices. We will start in Illinois and new regulations proposed for companies that provide car and homeowners' insurance, Senate Bill 1486. Here's what it would do: This [...]
	Illinois lawmakers McCombie & Halpin on new taxes and the next home for the Chicago Bears Illinois state lawmakers are moving closer to the pressure point of this year's legislative session. It's scheduled to end May 31, and they need to finalize a budget by then. Gov. JB Pritzker submitted his $56 billion spending plan about two months ago. It would be the largest budget in state history. The biggest challenge [...]
	Officials: 3 University of Iowa students injured in shooting at Ped Mall near university The Iowa City Police Department is investigating a shooting that happened early Sunday morning at the Ped Mall near the University of Iowa campus.
	Several injured in shooting near University of Iowa campus at Ped Mall The Iowa City Police Department is investigating a shooting that happened early Sunday morning at the Ped Mall near the University of Iowa campus.
	“Butcher, Hymes, & Murtha,” April 29 through June 29 Colorful, playful, and delightfully goofy works will be on display at the Quad City Arts International Airport Gallery from April 29 through June 29, with the shared exhibition Butcher, Hymes, & Murtha showcasing new illustrations on shaped wood by Aaron Butcher and examples of fiber art by MaryKay Hymes and Diane Murtha.
	Sunday Puzzle: For Mimi NPR's Elissa Nadworny plays the puzzle with WMEH listener Chee Sing Lee and Weekend Edition Puzzlemaster Will Shortz.
	Work continues on Bettendorf's Central Avenue Resurfacing Project Iowa American Water crews will move eastward on Monday and begin work on the second of five sections.
	BBB Tip: Healthcare scams are after your personal information Healthcare scams are as varied as just about any con out there. The fraudster often poses as a government authority to persuade you to provide personal information related to your insurance, Medicare or Medicaid account for identity theft. In other…
	Photos: In this part of the world, nearly every chile pepper farmer is a woman Chile peppers are a traditional part of Indian cuisine — and a key crop for women farmers. They say it's too demanding for men. "In spite of the challenges," says one, "we've found freedom."
	Why nearly every farmer who grows these chile peppers is a woman Chile peppers are a traditional part of Indian cuisine — and a key crop for women farmers. They say it's too demanding for men. "In spite of the challenges," says one, "we've found freedom."
	MARK-TO-MARKET: Despite Iran conflict, stock market soars to record highs Not even halfway through the year, 2026 has been a rollercoaster ride for stock market investors. In early February, the major U.S. stock market indexes were all trading at or near their respective all-time highs. Investors were optimistic that the…
	U.S.-Iran ceasefire expires this week with no deal in sight After briefly reopening the vital economic waterway, Iran has again closed the Strait of Hormuz, saying it will restrict ships from passing through as long as the U.S. continues its blockade.
	U.S. negotiators prepare for more peace talks as Trump repeats threats to Iran After Iran again closed the Strait of Hormuz, President Trump said the U.S. is returning to Pakistan for negotiations, but threatened to strike Iranian infrastructure if a deal isn't reached soon.
	How Iowa Quad-Cities school districts reacted to 2% increase in supplemental state aid As school budgets for next year are nearing completion and being presented to the public, here is how Iowa Quad-Cities schools responded the 2% increase in supplemental state aid.
	From Matchbox cars to history: One man’s archive tells Davenport’s story He started with Matchbox cars. Now his vast collection preserves Davenport’s past, one photo, record and story at a time.
	A County Seat This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.Folks around here once took their right to vote seriously. They cared about who won.That was one-hundred and fifty…
	She no longer remembers it's her birthday. He got her a present anyway A special day can be tinged with sorrow when your partner has dementia. But then he found the perfect gift.
	Freeze Warning from MON 12:00 AM CDT until MON 9:00 AM CDT Freeze Warning: Sub-Freezing Temperatures Expected Overnight
	The Little Probe That Could: Why Voyager 1 Matters, and Why NASA Just Switched Part of It Off This week, NASA announced it had shut down one of that spacecraft's remaining science instruments — not because the mission has failed, but to keep it alive a little longer.
Saturday, April 18th, 2026
	St. Ambrose Dance Marathon caps yearlong fundraising with its 13-hour event After months of preparation and fundraising, St. Ambrose University students are dancing for 13 hours to support pediatric care at the University of Iowa.
	Local company donates HVAC system to Kings Harvest Ministries Northwest Mechanical Inc. donated an HVAC system, valued at approximately $10,000, to Kings Harvest Ministries' homeless shelter.
	Bridge deck over Spoon River undergoes emergency repairs A section of eastbound I-74 in Knox County is closed for emergency bridge deck repairs over the Spoon River until April 22.
	Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois holds 'Journey Around the World' event Kids and families got the chance to explore booth representing cultures and countries from around the world.
	KWQC brings home 8 Iowa, 1 Illinois broadcaster awards KWQC is bringing home hardware from the Iowa and Illinois Broadcaster News Association award events Saturday.
	North Korea launches ballistic missiles toward sea South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff says the launches happened on Sunday morning from the North's eastern Sinpo area.
	Family Resources holds barbeque fundraiser in support of sexual assault survivors All proceeds from the fundraiser benefit Family Resources’ sexual abuse programs.
	Overview of last night's storms After a very eventful week of severe weather, last night was most likely the worst of it with a strong line of showers and thunderstorms bring strong winds, hail, and tornadoes in our area. Some of our storm reports from last night's storms include strong wind gusts that reached as high as 90 mph over [...]
	Life jacket worn by a passenger who survived the Titanic auctioned off for over $900,000 A life jacket worn by a passenger on the RMS Titanic has sold at auction for 670,000 pounds, which is more than $900,000.
	Crews respond to Rock Island fire Fire crews respond to fire.
	Flood warning issued for Rock and Mississippi rivers, rains erase local drought conditions All the rain that has fallen over Iowa and Illinois has erased the drought conditions in the Quad-Cities region, but it also is causing local rivers to flood.
	A mass shooting in Ukraine's capital leaves 6 dead before police shot and killed the gunman A gunman has killed six people and injured at least 14 in a mass shooting in Ukraine's capital before he was shot and killed by police.
	MercyOne Genesis Woodhull Family Medicine to open April 20 A public ribbon cutting for the new location will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 1.
	Rock Island's 2026 Annual Action Plan available for public inspection and comment A draft of Rock Island's 2026 Annual Action Plan is now available for public inspection and comment.
	Trump signs order fast tracking review of psychedelics for mental health disorders President endorses psilocybin and ibogaine: "Can I have some, please?"
	Lena Strong Community Fund to support storm relief efforts The Foundation for Northwest Illinois says it will match donations up to $50,000.
	Traffic Alert: Eastbound I-74 closure in Knox County Traffic is being rerouted to U.S. Highway 150 East and Illinois Route 97, according to the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
	Recovery efforts underway in Lena after likely tornado tears through town Friday's storm caused destruction across the village.
	Geneseo Chamber of Commerce to host annual Artwalk Visitors can stroll through the heart of the city while exploring a diverse mix of artists, makers and vendors showcasing their work and products.
	Viola coffee shop damaged by Friday storms The Bean Field coffee shop, 1708 13th Street, sustained damage after Friday nights storm, the business shared to Facebook.
	Severe weather causes 2 separate truck tractor semi trailer crashes on Knox County interstate Friday’s severe weather caused some truck tractor semi trailers to overturn on an interstate. No injuries were reported.
	Mural artist will give Volunteer Millers program in Fulton The Volunteer Millers at Fulton’s Windmill Area will host mural artist Eve Van Kampen for a program on her work at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, a news release says. The presentation will be held at the Windmill Cultural Center, 111 10th Ave. in downtown Fulton. Van Kampen is a mural artist and designer based [...]
	Photos: How overfishing in Southeast Asia is an ecological and human crisis A rare look at one of the world's most critical and understudied environmental crises. Southeast Asia produces more than half of the world's fish, yet its waters are among the most depleted and contested.
	Photos: In this part of the world, nearly every pepper farmer is a woman A rare look at one of the world's most critical and understudied environmental crises. Southeast Asia produces more than half of the world's fish, yet its waters are among the most depleted and contested.
	Learn how to care for trees in free Moline session The City of Moline and Moline Community Development Corporation will host a tree education session from 11 a,m, until noon Saturday, May 9, at Riverside Park, 3300 5th Ave., Moline. The City of Moline and Moline Community Development Corporation are partnering for the second year to invite residents, homeowners, and community members. The session will [...]
	Opinion: Remembering Kevin Klose, former NPR president and broadcasting icon We remember Kevin Klose, former NPR president, who helped secure financial stability for the network while supporting and encouraging its journalism.
	Tired of waiting for your EV to charge up? One Chinese company has a novel solution Chinese car company NIO is putting up EV battery swapping stations all around the world. NPR took a ride in one car for the experience.
	Holocaust Film Series will be held at Figge Art Museum, Davenport The Holocaust Film Series 2026 will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26, with "Orchestra of Exiles" at the Figge Art Museum auditorium, 225 W. 2nd St., Davenport, according to a news release. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and military, free for students. All films have won multiple awards and all have [...]
	Front Street Brewery will present cruise for QC Honor Flight Front Street Brewery has announced the Front Street Topless Cruise for Charity at noon Saturday, May 16, a news release says. This is part of the nationally recognized Go Topless Day, the annual tradition for Jeep owners and outdoor vehicle enthusiasts across the country. This year, Front Street Brewery will join the celebration, with all [...]
	School board splits on installing synthetic turf at Rock Island High School Rock Island High School will get synthetic turf in the following years, but the decision came down to a deciding vote on Tuesday night's school board meeting.
	Muscatine Power and Water receives national awards, including for safety and reliability “Our employees take pride in doing their work the right way, and these awards highlight that dedication across every part of our organization," MPW General Manager Gage Huston said.
	Kiwanis Club of Moline plans Music Bingo night The Kiwanis Club of Moline is teaming up with Think and Drink Trivia to host its first Music Bingo night, a news release says. The goal is to raise money to go toward becoming an IMPACT Club with Kiwanis International while improving the lives of children in the community through fundraising. The event will be [...]
	Memories of Muscatine: The Gardener This week for Memories of Muscatine: A watercolor by Katheryn Rogers.
	Rivers and Lakes This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island.We Rock Islanders who live along the Mississippi River don't hold much for lakes, those little puddles that dot the…

Monday, April 20th, 2026

Sunday, April 19th, 2026

Saturday, April 18th, 2026