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

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024
	Iowa DOT prepares snow plow crews for winter Local crews are responsible for maintaining nearly 500 miles of highways when the snow starts falling.
	Clinton man sentenced to 8 years in federal prison on child porn charges He is required to register as a sex offender.
	Iowa DOT prepares snow plow crews for winter Local crews are responsible for maintaining nearly 500 miles of highways when the snow starts falling.
	'Don't give up' l Community helps gift new bed for Davenport shooting victim Several organizations and people donated money for the roughly $40,000 bed. The family is also hoping for a handicap-accessible van.
	Rock Island debuts improvements to Arts Alley The City spent more than $500,000 on additions such as new murals, decorative lighting and new stalls for vendors.
	'Don't give up' l Community helps gift new bed for Davenport shooting victim Several organizations and people donated money for the roughly $40,000 bed. The family is also hoping for a handicap-accessible van.
	Rock Island debuts improvements to Arts Alley The City spent more than $500,000 on additions such as new murals, decorative lighting and new stalls for vendors.
	MLK Jr. Center invites community to Thanksgiving in Rock Island, Davenport The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center (MLK Center) invites the Quad City community to its 35th annual Thanksgiving event. All are welcome to a Thanksgiving meal at no cost. The center’s goal this year is to give away 7,500 free meals. (Getty) Meals include turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, green beans, corn, roll/cranberry sauce and dessert. MLK Center, 630 9th St., Rock Island Friday, Nov. 22: Noon-5 p.m., drive-through only Saturday, Nov. 23: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., drive-through and 25-meal minimum delivery Sunday, Nov. 24: Noon-4 p.m., dine-in only. TMBC at the Lincoln Center, 318 E. 7th St., Davenport Saturday, Nov. 23: Noon-4 p.m. Curbside service will be available while supplies last. Meals also will be delivered throughout the Quad Cities to prearranged locations. “It is truly an honor to be able to provide free Thanksgiving meals to our Quad Citiescommunity for the 35th straight year,” said MLK Center Executive Director Jerry Jones.“This is a community effort– a true labor of love from donors, partners and volunteers.” This year’s Thanksgiving Dinner is supported by sponsorships from Ascentra Credit Union, Blackhawk Bank & Trust, Crawford Company, Eaton, Estes Construction, Huiskamp Collins Investments, IHMVCU, John Deere Harvester Works, Nexstar Media, Quad City Bank & Trust, Royal Neighbors, Whitey’s Ice Cream, and Valley Construction; grants from the Regional Development Authority, Moline Regional Community Foundation, Rock Island Township, UnityPoint Health Trinity, and South Rock Island Township; in-kind donations from Hy-Vee in Rock Islan), Hill & Valley and Liberty Packaging; and contributions from individuals. Key partners for this event include Dohrn Transfer, Second Baptist Church and Bayside Bistro. MissionThe Martin Luther King Jr. Center inspires greatness in the Quad Cities through community-building, education and service. Major programs currently include substance use prevention; teenage pregnancy prevention; Family Advocacy Center; free after-school and summer programs for children aged 6-14; a variety of clubs for people of all ages; free tax preparation assistance; four annual events for the community; and backbone support for the West End Revitalization
	Work continues to upgrade Modern Woodmen Park Work continues on the field at Modern Woodmen Park in Davenport to meet the standards set by Major League Baseball. The $700,000 project upgrades are geared to keep the field in good condition for the next 10 years. Davenport Public Works says the project requires going under the grass. The City of Davenport expects the field to be ready for the Quad Cities River Bandits' season opener in 2025. For more information, click here.
	The Thing With Feathers comes to Raccoon Motel, Davenport Rising Nashville rock powerhouse The Thing With Feathers returns to Davenport on Thursday, Nov. 21, for a co-headlining show with fellow Nashville rockers Parrotfish at local-favorite Raccoon Motel in downtown Davenport. The Thing With Feathers Known for songs like “Figure It Out,” “Lights Down Low” and “Everything I’m Missing,” the band is in the midst of a U.S. tour in support of a brand-new live record, "Ready to Burn - Live at Exit/In," released on Nov. 1. The show marks the band's second time at the Raccoon Motel, where fans will be treated to their high-octane set filled with their biggest songs and newest music. Tickets are now available by clicking HERE or by visiting The Thing With Feathers website. About The Thing With Feathers The Thing With Feathers are an alt-rock, indie pop and dance powerhouse, fueled by three of Nashville’s favorite fools: David Welcsh (vocals), Alex Hendricks (lead guitar), and Chris Roussell (drums). Blending their affinity for several artists such as Coldplay, the 1975, and The Strokes, the band created a distinct sound best expressed in their May 2019 release, "Figure It Out." The infectious hook- and pop-sensitive rock sound helped the track amass over a million streams on Spotify since its release, quickly becoming a fan-favorite at live shows and proving a powerful catalyst in reaching an international audience. The band's sophomore EP, "Waste My Revenge," has garnered nearly a million streams on Spotify and comes on the heels of their ‘Lights Down Low’ music video being added into rotation on MTV's "Spankin’ New", a featured performance South By Southwest in Austin, Texas, and constant touring throughout the U.S. in 2023 and 2024. Watch The Thing With Feathers perform live at Nashville’s Exit/In here.
	Milledgeville prepares for their first state championship The Milledgeville football team is preparing for the biggest game in program history. For the first time ever, the Missiles will play for a state championship this Friday night.
	Coldest wind chills of season so far coming Thursday morning After a cold and blustery Wednesday evening - we're looking at wind chills in THE TEENS Thursday morning! With lows in the 20s and winds gusting close to 30 mph Thursday morning, it will feel like it's in the upper teens early in the morning. It doesn't get a whole lot better Thursday afternoon either. Our high will be around 40° with wind chills hovering in the 20s through the day!
	QC senior meal services in need of funding: How a state bill proposed in Illinois could help The Rock Island County Senior Center said their meal program's waitlist is 117 people long.
	Davenport Police Department hosts very special holiday meal The Davenport Police Department hosted its annual holiday meal November 20 at Empowering Abilities. Empowering Abilities is a nonprofit that provides services for people with special needs. More than 35 people from the department came to help serve meals. The event is a way for the department to connect with the community. The police department has been hosting the tradition for more than 30 years. For more information, click here.
	Man found guilty for 2022 home invasion and murder in Rock Island On Wednesday, Jonathan Rojas-Carrasco was found guilty of murdering Eric B. Beale during an Oct. 9, 2022, home invasion in Rock Island.
	How much will Thanksgiving dinner cost this year? (NewsNation) — Thanksgiving dinner will cost less this year thanks to lower turkey prices, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual survey released Wednesday. The survey found that a classic feast for 10 will cost $58.08 this year, a 5% decrease from 2023 and down from a record high of $64.05 in 2022. It's the second year in a row that American families can expect to spend less on Thanksgiving dinner, but the cost is still almost 20% higher than before the pandemic in 2019. "We are seeing modest improvements in the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for a second year, but America’s families, including farm families, are still being hurt by high inflation,” AFBF President Zippy Duvall said in a statement. This year's decline is partially due to lower turkey prices, which have dropped 6% from a year ago despite a bird flu outbreak. "The American turkey flock is the smallest it’s been since 1985 because of avian influenza, but overall, demand has also fallen, resulting in lower prices at the grocery store for families planning a holiday meal," AFBF economist Bernt Nelson said in a statement. How will Trump's tariffs impact everyday Americans? Other Thanksgiving staples, like pumpkin pie mix, vegetables, and sweet potatoes, are also less expensive than a year ago. The cost of whole milk has dropped more than other items, falling 14% from a year earlier because of favorable weather conditions for dairy farmers, AFBF said. Meanwhile, a pound of frozen peas is down to $1.73, an 8% decline from 2023. But it's not all good news. The survey found some prices, particularly processed food, have gone up. Items like dinner rolls and cubed stuffing saw an 8% increase due to higher labor costs. Cranberry prices have also shot up, almost 12% year over year, though that's still in line with historical averages, the AFBF said. There were also regional differences in the cost of a meal. Those celebrating in the West can expect to spend at least 15% more than the rest of the country: $67.81 for a party of 10. Southern dinners will cost the least at $56.81, followed closely by the Northeast at $57.36 and $58.90 in the Midwest, according to the survey. Why is Thanksgiving so late this year? The AFBF's report is a promising sign that Americans are finally seeing some relief at the grocery store. Since Jan. 2021, grocery bills are up more than 22%, according to government inflation data. However, the rise in grocery prices has slowed significantly since the start of 2024, hovering around a 1% annual rate. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 39th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey comes from Farm Bureau shoppers who checked store prices between Nov. 1 and 7 across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The AFBF said the shoppers didn't take advantage of special promotions and collected the data before most grocery chains started discounting turkey prices. Here’s how Thanksgiving prices compare to a year ago, according to the AFBF: 16-pound turkey: $25.67 (-6.1%) 14 ounces of cubed stuffing mix: $4.08 (+8.2%) 2 frozen pie crusts: $3.40 (-2.9%) Half pint of whipping cream: $1.81 (+4.7%) 1 pound of frozen peas: $1.73 (-8.1%) 1 dozen dinner rolls: $4.16 (+8.4%) Misc. ingredients to prepare the meal: $3.75 (-5.1%) 30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix: $4.15 (-6.5%) 1 gallon of whole milk: $3.21 (-14.3%) 3 pounds of sweet potatoes: $2.93 (-26.2%) 1-pound veggie tray (carrots & celery): $.84 (-6.4%) 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries: $2.35 (+11.8%) Some retailers, like Target, Walmart, and Aldi, are competing for a place at the holiday table with turkey dinner deals and promotions.
	‘Extremely scary’: woman describes escaping Sterling fire that displaced families Two families are left displaced after crews responded to an apartment fire Tuesday night. Several people had to be treated on scene for smoke inhalation.
	Court hears arguments over Iowa counties' carbon pipeline zoning ordinances Two Iowa counties are asking a federal court to allow them to place zoning restrictions on proposed carbon capture pipelines.
	Davenport North student arrested for having gun at school A student at Davenport North High School was arrested Wednesday after he was found to be in possession of a gun while on school grounds, police said.
	Could Iowa families with kids get tax savings next year? An Iowa legislator said that the legislature could consider tax savings for families next year, which could help with child care costs.
	WQAD announces Kory Kuffler as new sports director Kory has been reporting on local sports since 2000 and joined the WQAD team in 2010.
	Moline Breakfast Optimist Club hands out winter gear to local children The "Shoes and Clothes That Fit" program started more than 20 years ago when a club member saw a need for new shoes.
	Senior meal services in need of funding: How an Illinois lawmaker is responding The Rock Island County Senior Center said their meal program waitlist is 117 people long.
	Man charged with murder in connection to death of Davenport woman 35-year-old Dillon R. Adams is accused of fatally assaulting 33-year-old Madeline Bakoylis.
	Have you seen these suspects? Crime Stoppers wants to know! Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities wants your help catching two fugitives. It’s an Our Quad Cities News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases: JASON GOFORTH JR., 50, 6’1”, 175 pounds, brown hair, brown eyes. Wanted in Scott County for three counts of probation violation on charges of felon in possession of a firearm, theft and criminal mischief. MOSES WOODS, 23, 5’11”, 130 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Wanted in Rock Island County for failure to appear in court and probation violation on a charge of possession of a stolen firearm and probation violation on a charge of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. Jason Goforth Jr. (L) and Moses Woods (Crime Stoppers) You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at (309) 762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	Rock Island crews race to complete downtown upgrades as businesses navigate construction challenges It’s been months since construction began on Rock Island’s $8.7 million downtown revitalization project. With the holidays approaching, businesses are navigating the challenges of ongoing construction while city officials work to meet their year-end goals.
	Whitey's Ice Cream sandwich earns first-place honor in 2024 World Dairy Expo Championship The QC staple's Harvest Chipper beat all other competition in a battle of premier ice cream sandwich products.
	QC couple delivers campers full of supplies to Helene survivors A month and a half after hurricane Helene devastated the eastern coast of the United Statesfamilies are still struggling to find food, water and a place to stay. By chance, a couple in Atkinson found a way to bring some much needed aid. "I saw a TikTok where a gentlemen said that it's been over a month and there are still people sleeping in tents and they're freezing, it's getting cold and they desperately, desperately need campers," said Lola Rahn. "I heard the word camper and that is my love language, we love campers. It's something we know a lot about, we go camping, we know the needs, the items needed in a camper." The couple decided to purchase a camper and fill it with supplies to give to a family in need in North Carolina. The couple wasn't sure how they would make it work, but the community came in to help. (Gavin Waidelich, OurQuadCities.com) "We took a leap of faith, and we purchased the camper, hoping that we would have support, not knowing for sure, but people came alongside of us and they supported us," said Rahn. Two weeks after delivering one camper to a family, the couple is heading back with another camper for a struggling family. "There is a family there, a mother with five children and they are anxiously awaiting, they pretty much have nothing but toiletries right now and a little bit of clothing," said Rahn. "So we've taken up donations, just like we did with the first camper. The community, has been super, super generous." Rahn and her husband are hoping to give this family a second chance. "On the second trip, we actually knew the family and the ages of the kids, and then people chose a child and got the necessary items for them, said Rahn. "So it's a little more, I would say, more personal." In addition to food and water, the couple is giving the family new clothes, bedding and toys for the holidays. They are leaving for Clyde, North Carolina Thursday morning.
	Man charged with murder in connection with August death of Davenport woman Dillon Ray Adams, 35, is charged in Scott County District Court with one count of first-degree murder.
	Gun-possessing student arrested in Davenport North High School staff responded quickly, averting any possible crisis complications.
	Clinton man sentenced to prison for having thousands of child-pornography images A Clinton man was sentenced Wednesday to 97 months in federal prison for receipt of child pornography. (Getty Images) According to public court documents, Brent Michael Fisher, 48, had 15 devices - including cell phones and memory cards - that contained child sexual-abuse material. Fisher came to the attention of law enforcement after his then-wife found two memory cards with child sexual- abuse material of minor victims and reported it to law enforcement, according to a news release from the U. S. Attorney's Office - Southern District of Iowa. Clinton Police obtained search warrants for the two memory cards, as well as Fisher’s house, car, and work trailer the same day they received the report. In total, Fisher possessed more than 36,000 images and nearly 10,000 videos containing child sexual-abuse material. After completing his term of imprisonment, Fisher will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Fisher was also ordered to pay $93,000 in restitution. Fisher is required to register as a sex offender. U. S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Clinton Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit here.
	Davenport North student arrested for bringing gun onto school property, police say On Wednesday, the school resource officer received information alleging a 16-year-old student was in possession of a firearm at the school.
	No students seriously injured in Stockton school bus accident All students on a school bus in Stockton, Illinois, were reported safe after a traffic accident Tuesday morning. Officials said no serious injuries were sustained.
	Davenport district will consider weapons-detection at secondary schools The Davenport School Board will discuss a weapons-detection system at its regular board meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, in the Jim Hester Board Room on the second floor of the Achievement Service Center, 1702 N. Main St., Davenport. The public is welcome. In a Wednesday email, a district spokesperson said "The following message was sent out to our North community this afternoon." The Davenport Community School District continues to focus on ways to enhance the safety for students and offer a safe learning environment, the message says. "At Monday’s school board meeting, the Davenport School Board will discuss a plan to purchase and utilize weapon detection and door monitoring systems in all secondary schools in the district. These detection systems will enhance current security measures that are already in place and be used to screen students and visitors." The message concludes: "DCSD continually evaluates our safety procedures and layers of security for our students. These systems will be a further deterrent and an added protection for our students and staff."
	Student arrested with firearm at Davenport North Davenport police said a 16-year-old was arrested for having a firearm at school.
	Man charged with murder in connection to death of Davenport woman 35-year-old Dillon R. Adams is accused of fatally assaulting 33-year-old Madeline Bakoylis.
	Moline Public Library celebrating impact of Native American women in Illinois Presenter Kim Sigafus sat down with Shelby Kluver on The Current on News 8 to talk about the event.
	Upcoming current event: 'Singing Bird' and the impact of Native American women November is Native American Heritage Month. You can celebrate with a talk in Moline on Nov. 25 about the lives, customs and impacts of Native women in Illinois.
	Davenport North student arrested for bringing gun onto school property, police say On Wednesday, the school resource officer received information alleging a 16-year-old student was in possession of a firearm at the school.
	Whitey's Ice Cream sandwich earns first-place honor in 2024 World Dairy Expo Championship The QC staple's Harvest Chipper beat all other competition in a battle of premier ice cream sandwich products.
	President-Elect Trump picks former Hawkeye to join administration Matt Whitaker, a former political candidate in Iowa and Hawkeye football player, has been nominated by President-Elect Donald Trump to become U.S. Ambassador to NATO.
	Davenport man sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for child porn charges A Davenport man was sentenced Wednesday to 192 months, or 16 years, in federal prison for the distribution and receipt of child pornography, according to a media release.
	Empowering Abilities holds early Thanksgiving dinner Davenport police officers fed more than 200 people at the event.
	Davenport man sentenced to federal prison for receipt, distribution of child pornography A Davenport man was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for distribution and receipt of child pornography, according to a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice. According to public court documents, law enforcement received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in 2023, stating that child sexual abuse material had been uploaded and shared from an account on a digital storage platform. Officers determined that Bob Arthur Phillips, 37, uploaded the child sexual abuse material to the digital storage account. Officers seized numerous electronic devices belonging to Phillips after multiple residential search warrants as his home. The devices were found to contain evidence of distributing and receiving child sexual assault material. Phillips must serve an eight year term of supervised release after completing his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Phillips was ordered to pay $38,000 and must register as a sex offender. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood gathers federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Click here for more about Project Safe Childhood. Click here and click on the resources tab for more about internet safety education.
	Davenport man accused of using wooden croquet mallet to attack family member A Davenport man is being held without bond following an attack on a family member with a croquet mallet.
	First Trace of Snow This Season As temperatures have dropped significantly today from the low to mid 60s at the start of the week, we are seeing our first glances at snow today. With temperatures in the 30s this afternoon and gusty winds bringing the wind chill down to the 20s, these clouds are bringing in some slight flurries. It isn't going to be enough to create any accumulation, but it is a sign of the times that snow is on the radar now as we reach the end of November here in the Quad Cities.
	ISU Extension: Preparing for the holiday season Rachel Sweeney, Answerline Program Specialist with the Iowa State University Extension & Outreach shares what the answerline is all about.
	2 women arrested in prostitution sting at LeClaire massage parlor An undercover investigation – launched after customer complaints – reveals what authorities are describing as a prostitution operation at a LeClaire massage parlor.
	Women arrested in LeClaire on prostitution charges Two women have been arrested on prostitution charges after an undercover operation in LeClaire, according to Scott County court documents. The criminal complaint says that members of the Scott County Sheriff's Office Special Operations Unit Task Force (SOU) conducted an undercover operation at KT Rose Spa, 1007 Canal Shore Dr. SW in Le Claire on Tuesday, November 19. The operation was in response to complaints about sexual favors being offered during/after massages. A member of the SOU Task Force entered the business during normal business hours during the undercover operation and told the attendant/masseuse, later identified as Xuemei Wu, 45 of Weston, Fla., that he wished to receive a half hour massage in exchange for U.S. currency. Yalan Chen (Scott County Jail) Xuemei Wu (Scott County Jail) During the massage the undercover agent was asked by Wu if he wished to perform sexual acts with her and her co-worker, later identified as Yalan Chen, 54 of San Jose, Calif. Wu gave the agent a price in U.S. currency for the act, according to the complaint. During post-Miranda interviews with Wu and Chen, Chen denied any involvement in the business and said she did not give any massages. She said she was purely here for "fun" but could not elaborate on what that meant. A confidential source positively identified Chen as someone who had offered them sexual favors during a previous incident. Wu did not wish to speak with agents. Officers obtained a search warrant for the premises and during its execution, it became apparent that Wu and Chen were living within the premises, the criminal complaint said. They found several unused condoms in both of the "bedroom" areas. Chen and Wu were arrested on Tuesday, November 19 on prostitution charges, according to jail records. Chen was released on $2,000 bond and has a preliminary hearing on December 10. Wu was also released on a $2,000 bond and has a preliminary hearing on December 10.
	Nashville man killed after crashing semi on I-80 in Iowa According to an Iowa State Patrol crash report, a semi was driving east near mile marker 245 around 5:12 a.m. when it left the roadway and struck a bridge guardrail.
	Bettendorf holiday events will keep the whole family merry Get out the calendars, the City of Bettendorf has plenty of holiday activities for the entire family, including the four-legged ones! Senior Angel Tree, Wednesday, November 20 through Monday, December 2 at the Bettendorf Police Department, 1609 State Street. The Bettendorf Police Department (BPD) is again partnering with CASI – Center for Active Seniors, Inc. to provide gifts to seniors in the community. Anyone can stop by BPD, choose a name tag from the Senior Angel Tree, buy gifts for that person and return the unwrapped items to BPD by December 2. Giving Trees, Monday, November 25 through Friday, December 27 at the Bettendorf Community Center, 2204 Grant Street and the Family Museum, 2900 Learning Campus Drive. The Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department and the Family Museum are asking for donations of supplies for their exhibits, programs, camps and more. Items on their “wish lists” include everything from crayons and markers to gently used board games and DVDs, Letters to the North Pole, Monday, November 25 through Friday, December 20 Mailboxes are located at the Bettendorf Community Center and Family Museum Description. Bettendorf enlisted some special “elves” who can help you get wishes to Santa! Kids can drop off a letter and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to one of two special mailboxes located at the Bettendorf Community Center or the Family Museum and the elves will make sure they receive a response from the North Pole. Reindeer Day, Saturday, December 7 from 12 – 5 p.m. at the Family Museum. This event is included with paid admission and has real live reindeer, a variety of reindeer games and a special performance from the Family Museum Dance Company. Pack a Police Car & Fire Truck, Saturday, December 7 from 12 – 2 p.m. in the parking lot between the Family Museum and the Bettendorf Public Library, Learning Campus Drive. Visit with members of the Bettendorf Police and Fire Departments, drop off a new, unwrapped toy and receive $2 off admission to Reindeer Day. Santa’s Day Out, Saturday, December 7 from 3:15 – 7 p.m. at the Bettendorf Community Center. The Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department invites parents to drop off kids ages 5-12 for an afternoon of fun – and get some shopping done! Register for the event here by November 24. The fun includes holiday-themed crafts, games, dessert decorating, pizza and “The Grinch” on the big screen. ‘Tis the Season, Sunday, December 8 from 1 – 3 p.m. at Waterfront Convention Center, 2021 State Street. This free event for seniors in the community includes live entertainment from bands, choirs, dancers and more. The Bettendorf City Council and city staff will serve refreshments. The event is free, but registration is required; click here to register or call (563) 344-4113. Holiday Dog Walk, Sunday, December 8 starting at 1 p.m. at Crow Creek Dog Park, 4701 Devils Glen Road. The Bettendorf Trails Committee and the Bettendorf Dog Park Alliance are hosting this free event, which includes a 3-mile walk and a special gift for dogs, as well as hot cider for their people. All breeds and pedigrees are welcome to attend. Holiday PJ Paint Party, Sunday, December 8 from 3 – 5 p.m. at the Bettendorf Community Center. The Bettendorf Parks & Recreation Department and Art with Kare are offering a holiday pajama painting class. Kids ages 7-14 will learn to paint a piece of art and enjoy pizza while their paintings dry. This event requires registration; click here to sign up. Opening of The Landing Ice Rink, Sunday, December 15 from 12 – 6 p.m. at The Landing Ice Rink, 2255 Middle Road. The city’s newest attraction features an 11,000+ square foot ice rink surrounded by gas firepits and The Lodge, which has indoor restrooms, concessions and a fireplace. Ribbon Cutting & Tree Lighting Ceremony of The Landing Ice Rink, Monday, December 16 at 4 p.m. at The Landing Ice Rink. Mayor Bob Gallagher, Bettendorf City Council, city leaders and community partners will celebrate Bettendorf’s newest amenity. Holiday Jammie Jam, Friday, December 20 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Family Museum. Families can show off their holiday PJs at this free event and sing holiday favorites in the beautifully decorated Great Hall. Noon Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Family Museum, 2900 Learning Campus Drive. Kids get to celebrate a countdown to 12... Noon! There are a limited number of tickets available for the event and they go on sale December 2. Follow the Family Museum’s Facebook and Instagram pages for ticket information. Click here to see all the holiday events in Bettendorf.
	Davenport man charged with punching police officer before drugs, weapons arrest A Davenport man arrested Tuesday allegedly punched a police officer before his arrest for drugs and weapons possession.
	More than 1,000 students attend Building Futures Career Expo More than 1,000 students visited Rock Island on Tuesday to learn about careers in the trades. Students from seventh through 12th grades showed up for the Building Futures Career Expo at the QCCA Expo Center. They took part in trade-related activities like plumbing, electrical work and ironwork. Students got hands-on experience with technology and spoke with the experts about the work. Organizers say this exposure is important for growing the local workforce in the trades.
	Moline and firefighters' union agree to new contract, including raises, parental leave The contract will be in place starting Jan. 1, 2025 until Dec. 31, 2027.
	Mercer County football coach resigns after being suspended in October, report says Matlick was suspended due to a "series of events resulting in a climate and culture below the expectations of the school district," a district statement said.
	Police say Davenport man struck parent in face with croquet mallet 37-year-old James McNabb is charged with willful injury - causing serious injury, going armed with intent, and domestic abuse.
	Autistic & Loved opening new sensory gym in Davenport QCA families who have members with sensory needs have a new place to play and be safe. Autistic & Loved is opening a Sensory Gym for children with autism and their families. The launch party for the gym will be on Wednesday, December 4 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 3811 Harrison Street, Suite 200 in Davenport. Not only will the gym be a place for children with sensory needs to have a place to play, be safe, and be themselves but area therapists can rent the space for members and their families. The gym also has a sensory chill/calming room, a greenhouse and a gift shop. Autistic & Loved was founded by Dr. Kit Evans Ford, after realizing there was a need for more resources and products for children with sensory needs in the community. Click here for more information on the organization.
	House Ethics Committee is deadlocked on whether to release Gaetz report The U.S. House Committee on Ethics is deadlocked on whether to release its report into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, whose nomination to serve as Trump's attorney general has been plagued by controversy.
	SAL Community Services receives $13,000 in grants SAL Community Services receives $13,000 in new and renewal grants to support childcare and family programs.
	With self-defense classes, women empowered to stay safe, protect others It is a free, weekly women’s survivor self-defense class in Moline, Illinois, for women ages 15 and up that is drop-in and is unique to the Quad Cities.
	Davenport man charged with trying to sell stolen bike to owner arrested on theft, burglary charges A Davenport man who was arrested last month for trying to sell a stolen bicycle back to its owner, who was accompanied by police, is back in the Scott County Jail today. This time he’s being held on multiple theft, conspiracy and burglary charges. Dillan Silvers (Scott County Jail) Dillan Silvers, 20, was arrested on Wednesday, November 20 and taken to the Scott County Jail on these charges, according to jail records: 6 counts of felony third degree burglary 2 counts of felony conspiracy 2 counts of misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor Felony second degree theft Misdemeanor fourth degree theft Felony trafficking in stolen weapons Felony ongoing criminal activity Silvers is in the Scott County Jail on a total secured bond of $33,000 and a total cash-only bond of $30,000 and is awaiting an initial court appearance.
	Davenport man accused of using wooden croquet mallet to attack family member A Davenport man is being held without bond following an attack on a family member with a croquet mallet.
	Argrow's House hosting launch party for cafe, gift shop There’s exciting news from Argrow’s House – they’re hosting a launch party for their gift shop and cafe! The party celebrating the cafe, the new Social Innovation Hub documentary and the gift shop will be on December 4 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Davenport location, 3811 Harrison Street, Suite 100. Visitors can shop their naturally handmade products by women survivors of violence. Free samples of a new coffee made by women survivors in Colombia will be available. Argrow's House of Healing and Hope is a safe space where free services are offered every day for women healing from violence and abuse. It’s also a bath and body social enterprise where women healing from abuse create beautiful products to make a living for themselves. Over the past seven years, Argrow’s House has served hundreds of women and children who are healing from violence. The group employs survivors and offers monthly domestic violence support groups, art therapy, food programs, therapeutic animal support and yoga. They have opened a community and counseling center for survivors and provided a rent-free home for women and children survivors of violence. Click here for more on Argrow’s House, including a link to buy products.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for Nov. 20, 2024 The QC Botanical Center will unveil its winter display for its 8th annual "Winter Lights," the Scott County Regional Authority awarded $1.3 million in grants.
	Dhol drum artist Sunny Jain playing at Butterworth Center Percussions fans, check out Dhol drum artist Sunny Jain when he performs a concert for Music at Butterworth Center on Wednesday, December 4 at 7 p.m. in the Butterworth Center’s library, 1105 Eighth Street in Moline. Sunny Jain (Butterworth Center) Known as the “Hendrix of Dhol,” Jain founded Red Baraat, a fusion of bhangra, hip-hop, jazz, rock and sheer energy that NPR calls the “best party band in years.” Red Baraat has played the White House, London Olympics, TED, Austin City Limits, Bonnaroo, Luxembourg Philharmonic, Peter Gabriel’s WOMAD festivals (Australia, New Zealand, Spain and UK) and Padma Lakshmi’s Blossom Ball. While Jain entertains with his Dhol, a double-sided drum with a wide range of sounds and rhythms, he encourages families with young musicians to try it. All Music at Butterworth concerts are free and take place in the grand Butterworth Center Library, with complimentary refreshments in the historic dining room afterward. Visitors can find plenty of parking adjacent to the Butterworth Center. Call (309) 743-2701 or click here for more information on the Butterworth Center and its event schedule.
	Regional blood center ImpactLife celebrates 50 years with ribbon cutting In 1974 two blood banks merged to create one.
	City of Davenport to discuss progress on Fair Oaks Foods project Davenport city leaders are continuing discussions on the progress being made on a major meat-processing factory that could bring hundreds of jobs to the Quad Cities Area.
	Davenport man arrested after punching police officer A Davenport man is being held in the Scott County Jail on no bond after police say he punched one officer in the face and caused knee injuries in two others after a chase. Melvin Hawkins III (Scott County Jail) Members of the Davenport Police Department's Tactical Operations Bureau concluded a narcotics investigation on November 19 at about 8:26 a.m. involving Melvin Hawkins III. Officers followed Hawkins from his home in the 2700 block of N. Brady Street to a home in the 300 block of E. 30th Street. A uniformed police officer in a fully marked squad car arrived as detectives wearing vests with clear police markings approached Hawkins. According to the criminal complaint, he punched the officer in the face with a closed fist, causing the eye to swell and a bleeding laceration. Hawkins tried to run from officers but eventually fell to the ground and was detained. Two officers sustained knee lacerations causing pain and bleeding during the chase. Hawkins dropped a bag while running that contained 147.45 grams of high-grade marijuana, a digital scale and a box of sandwich bags. He also had a cell phone and $1,123 in cash. The complaint further says that officers checked Hawkins’ Iowa driver's license and learned it was revoked for Eluding until December 16, 2024. He also failed to have SR-22 insurance in his vehicle. Officers checked his criminal history and discovered Hawkins is a convicted felon. Detectives executed a search warrant on Hawkins’ home and found a 12 gauge shotgun, $4,000 in cash, a digital scale, 14.65 grams of marijuana, 61.35 grams of marijuana edibles and ammunition. The marijuana weighing 147.45 grams and the marijuana edibles weighing 61.35 grams did not have an affixed Iowa Drug Tax Stamp, which the Code of Iowa requires. The marijuana and marijuana edibles field-tested positive using a field test kit. Hawkins was arrested and charged with: Felony dominion/control of a weapon by a domestic abuse offender Assault on a police officer Driving while license denied/revoked 2 counts of failure to affix a drug tax stamp Interference with official acts 2 counts of possession with intent to deliver Violation of financial liability Jail records show he is being held in the Scott County Jail on no bond as he awaits an initial court appearance.
	More than 1K students gather for Building Futures Career Expo in Rock Island With a number of people nearing retirement, the building and trades industry is in need of new workers.
	2 families displaced in Sterling apartment fire, crews say Two families are left displaced after crews responded to an apartment fire Tuesday night. Several people had to be treated on scene for smoke inhalation.
	Additional investigations into UI Greek Life organizations Additional investigations into UI Greek Life organizations
	Coming Soon: Rock Island officials welcome their community to Arts Alley This project began in 2021, and with some financial assistance from the Quad Cities Chamber in 2022, this section of Rock Island has been revitalized for future use.
	Firefighters put out Sterling house fire Two families were displaced, and three people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.
	New city administrator for Muscatine likely to be approved in early December Mayor Brad Bark hopes the new city administrator will be able to start before the start of the new year.
	Trial begins in 2022 Rock Island murder and home invasion case Authorities allege Jonathan Rojas-Carrasco killed Eric B. Beale during an Oct. 9, 2022, home invasion in Rock Island.
	1,000 students get a hands-on taste of building trades at expo in Rock Island Students from 39 schools in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois could explore 42 hands-on activities and exhibits on building and construction trades at the first ever Building Futures Career Expo.
	1,000 students get a hands-on taste of building trades at expo in Rock Island Students from 39 schools in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois could explore 42 hands-on activities and exhibits on building and construction trades at the first ever Building Futures Career Expo.
	Southeast Iowa counties prepare to recount more than 400,000 ballots in 1st District race Counties are gearing up to recount more than 400,000 ballots in Iowa's 1st Congressional District race.
	Quad Cities Community Foundation scholarship applications open for 2025 Applications are due by Feb. 15, 2025, and students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
	Public defenders won't represent misdemeanor cases in Scott County "If private attorneys don't step up, if judges don't start assigning attorneys to cases, we are going to have unrepresented people," Iowa Chief Public Defender Jeff Wright said.
	Orion village to hold levy flat for 13th year While Village President Jim Cooper called for at least some increase, all six trustees voted to go with finance chairman Steve Newman's recommendation to hold the levy at $193,155.
	Pending Death Notices for Muscatine, Nov. 20, 2024 Olivia O'Connor, 25, formerly of Saginaw, MI, passed away Sunday, November 17, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA. Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, Moline.
	Pending Death Notices for the Quad-Cities, Nov. 20, 2024 Joann Love, 92, of Rock Island, passed away Sunday, November 17, 2024, at home. Arrangements are pending at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island.
	Second person involved in overdose death of Bettendorf woman sentenced to probation The second person charged in connection with the October 2023 overdose death of a Bettendorf woman has been sentenced to five years on supervised probation.
	Structure fire displaces two Sterling families Two families were displaced late Tuesday after a structure fire in Sterling, according to a news release. (sterling-il.gov) About 7:45 p.m. the Sterling Fire Department, Rock Falls Fire Department, CGH EMS and Sterling Police were dispatched to a possible structure fire. Police arrived to find smoke coming from the upstairs window, with flames visible in the window as well, on a two-story home that had been split into two apartments. Dixon Rural Fire, Prophetstown Fire, Milledgeville Fire and Advance Ambulance also came to the scene. Morrison Fire and Amboy Fire covered for the two fire departments.First-arriving fire units made a quick outside hit on the fire, then transitioned into the upstairs to get the fire out. About 250 gallons of water were used. The fire and smoke displaced two families. Three people were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene, but were not transported to a hospital. Two cats that had to be resuscitated are now in the care of Whiteside Animal Control.The scene has been turned over to Sterling Code Enforcement, the release says. To assist the displaced families, 1-800-Boardup and the Red Cross were contacted.
Tuesday, November 19th, 2024
	$400k approved to help rebuild, upgrade Niabi Zoo exhibits destroyed by heavy snow Rock Island Co. board members approved $400,000 Tuesday to help Niabi Zoo rebuild popular exhibits destroyed by record snowfall in January.
	Western Big 6 Boys Basketball coaches look ahead to season at banquet The high school boys basketball season tips off next week. Western Big 6 boys’ basketball coaches met at the Quad City Botanical Center for the conference’s annual banquet Tuesday night.
	City of Galesburg purchases playground equipment for Cooke Park The equipment will cost approximately $110,000.
	Optimist Club once again selling Christmas trees in Davenport All proceeds will benefit more than 40 youth-oriented charities in the region.
	2 Peoria County men accused of derailing train Officials said the derailment, which took place outside of Bartonville, caused around $80,000 in estimated damages.
	Tanner Matlick resigns as head football coach at Mercer County Matlick missed the team's last two games of the season while serving an indefinite suspension.
	Moline moving forward with 2025 budget The council held a public hearing on its proposed budget on Tuesday night.
	Niabi Zoo seeking funding to repair damaged animal enclosures A January snowstorm dropped 25 inches of snow, and multiple enclosures collapsed under the weight.
	Scott County Regional Authority celebrates awarding more than $100 million awarded The group has been donating to groups in the Quad Cities since 1991.
	Visit Quad Cities awarded more than $40,000 for tourism The funding came from Illinois' International Tourism Grant Program.
	Officials: More funding needed to repair Niabi Zoo animal enclosures A January snowstorm dropped 25 inches of snow, and multiple enclosures collapsed under the weight.
	Chance for snow! First flakes of the season possible Wednesday afternoon With colder weather moving in over the next few days, the stage is set for our first chance of snow this season! There's not likely going to be any accumulation, but a quick snow shower or two is possible Wednesday afternoon. It'll be cool and blustery with temps in the 40s. Even though there's no accumulation likely, the snow showers could offer a quick drop in the visibility if they materialize!
	Deadline for candidates to request election recount has passed in Iowa: Here are the impacted races locally The Scott County Board of Supervisors has approved conducting two recounts, one state race in House District 98 and Iowa's First Congressional District race.
	Kick off the holidays in Downtown Davenport! The holidays are right around the corner, and Davenport is ready to kick it all off as only the QCA can. Olivia Warren from Downtown Davenport Partnership joined Our Quad Cities News for a preview of weekend holiday festivities. For more information, click here.
	2nd person sentenced in Bettendorf woman's fatal overdose A second person has been sentenced in the fatal overdose of a Bettendorf woman, according to court records. Nicole Tucker and Lucas Seitz (Scott County Jail) Lucas Seitz, who earlier entered a guilty plea in connection with the death of Kayla Slusser, was sentenced Nov. 13 in Scott County Court to incarceration, a sentence that was suspended. Seitz was placed on five years of probation. According to the order of disposition, Seitz must complete the Residential Correctional Facility program, obtain a substance abuse evaluation and follow through with any recommended treatment, abstain from alcohol and controlled substances and submit to random urine tests. An overdose in 2023 About 1:46 a.m. Oct. 14, 2023, police responded to a room at the City Center Motel, 1138 State St., for an unresponsive person. "The victim was transported to the hospital and life support measures were done," police say in affidavits. "The victim was pronounced deceased three days later." A witness, LC, was interviewed several times during this investigation. "LC states the victim is a fentanyl user and will rarely smoke methamphetamine. LC states the victim was not in possession of any narcotics and contacted Lucas Seitz to obtain heroin or fentanyl. LC arranged an Uber driver to drive Seitz from the motel to meet with his supplier to obtain opiates. LC observed the victim to be under the influence of what LC believed to be opiates based on her demeanor. LC then observed the victim to turn blue and was not breathing," according to affidavits. "LC attempted life-saving measures to include multiple doses of Narcan as well as chest compressions," affidavits say. Affidavits show that Seitz, who was interviewed several times during the investigation, said LC contacted him looking for heroin for his girlfriend, whom Seitz had never met. Affidavits say Seitz contacted his main supplier, who put him in contact with Nicole Tucker, who agreed to sell Seitz opiates, police allege in affidavits. "Seitz obtained a ride to the City Center, where LC provided him $100 for the purchase of heroin or fentanyl as well as an Uber driver to transport him to meet with his supplier." Affidavits say Seitz spent some of the $100 on cigarettes and a soda, then met with Tucker in Davenport. Seitz purchased a personal-use amount of what he believed to be heroin or fentanyl in exchange for $40 from Tucker. Seitz was given a ride back to the City Center, where he gave the packaged drugs to LC. "Seitz claimed to have not used any of the narcotics," according to affidavits. Tucker was interviewed once during the investigation, affidavits say. Tucker stated that Seitz contacted her looking to purchase opiates, and that Tucker was in possession of two "bad batches" of drugs, possibly "fake dope." Tucker stated she had purchased these for herself and they did not have the desired effect, so she re-sold them to Seitz in exchange for $40 to re-coup some of what she spent on it, according to affidavits. She met with Seitz about 10:30 p.m. Oct. 13 in the area of 31st Street and Western Avenue, Davenport. Text messages and phone calls between Seitz, Tucker and another person confirmed the transaction between Seitz and Tucker on Oct. 13 about 11 p.m., police allege in affidavits. The night of the overdose, officers performed a consent search on a neighbor's room and located: 0.6 grams (total package weight) methamphetamine (DCI - Division of Criminal Investigation - findings methamphetamine), 0.55 grams foil with burnt liquid sludge (DCI findings fentanyl), hypodermic syringe with liquid (DCI findings - methamphetamine/fentanyl/n-pyrrolidino etonitazene mixture), a spoon with burn marks and cotton swab (DCI findings - methamphetamine/fentanyl/n-pyrrolidino etonitazene mixture), and drug pipes, according to affidavits. Affidavits show "It was learned that at some point after the victim overdosed, these items were moved from the victim's room to the motel room next door." Toxicology results report the victim had positive findings of methamphetamine, amphetamine and phenylpropanolamine in her system. The initial toxicology test was sent in for only an amphetamine panel, not fentanyl or heroin, according to affidavits. Seitz and Nicole Tucker were arrested on warrants. 'I'll carry the weight of regret for the rest of my life.' In July, Tucker pleaded guilty to providing drugs to Kayla Slusser. Tucker was sentenced in Scott County Court to a total of 15 years for charges of involuntary manslaughter, third-degree burglary, first-degree theft and delivery of fentanyl. Tucker’s attorney read a statement written by Tucker. “I’d like to express immense remorse,” she wrote. “Drug addiction is what this all stems from ….I’ll carry the weight of regret for the rest of my life.” “I allowed addiction to take control over me. My choices will haunt me forever. I’m willing to face the repercussions I will be handed.” Members of the late Kayla Slusser‘s family, several of whom wore pink T-shirts with Kayla Slusser’s face on them, read emotional victim-impact statements. One read a statement on behalf of Kayla Slusser’s mother, who said “My daughter did not deserve this, to die like this.” Kayla Slusser’s sister said Kayla had a “sweet, happy-go-lucky spirit.” She said her sister knew she needed help, went to rehab and then relapsed. But “I had every hope that my sister was going to get better,” she said. “Every family get-together is marked by her absence.” Kayla Slusser was 25 when she died. “Your statements were very powerful,” the judge told the family. What are these drugs? According to the Department of Justice, N-pyrrolidino etonitazene (etonitazepyne) is a synthetic opioid that is "extremely potent" and "high risk" to users. Fentanyl is a strong opioid used as a pain medication. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the United States, the CDC says.

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Tuesday, November 19th, 2024