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

Wednesday, June 18th, 2025
	Bruce’s New & Used Furniture closing after 34-years in business, owner plans to retire Bruce’s New & Used Furniture, 935 West 4th Street, plans to close around August.
	SNAP Cuts: What’s at Risk for Food and Health Access in Iowa Feeding America is hoping to protect SNAP, as proposed cuts could eliminate 9.5 billion meals a year
	Why did the sirens go off in Scott County? If you were in Scott County Wednesday afternoon, you might have heard sirens going off.
	First responders conduct active shooter training at Bettendorf High School Around 30 students on summer vacation also volunteered to be part of the drill.
	First responders conduct active shooter training at Bettendorf High School Around 30 students on summer vacation also volunteered to be part of the drill.
	Moline holds pop-up pollinator sale Moline recently became a designated "bee city" as part of a nationwide effort to increase pollinator awareness.
	Help ImpactLife honor World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day June 19 is World Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Day, and ImpactLife will be recognizing the day in a very special way. Cheryl Easley and Kirby Winn spoke with Our Quad Cities News with info on how you can honor those affected by Sickle Cell Disease. For more information, click here.
	Advocates continue raising opposition to Rock Island dispensary disposal Council members are considering expanding a TIF district near Bally's Casino in order to purchase 10 acres adjacent to the wetlands.
	Lawsuit filed on behalf of Illinois track athlete paralyzed from waist down Meyers & Flowers trial attorneys Craig D. Brown, James A. McPhedran, and Christopher J. Warmbold have filed a lawsuit on behalf of a teenage track athlete who suffered catastrophic injuries while participating in a high school track meet at a local indoor track complex, according to a news release from the attorneys. Dylan Wescott (Kim Kilday) The lawsuit alleges that the Sterling Park District, Sterling High School, and Rock Falls High School all failed to address known safety hazards that ultimately led to the student’s life-altering injuries. The incident occurred during warmups for the triple jump event in March 2025, when theteen athlete (Dylan Wescott) tripped on uneven sand in the triple jump pit and collided head-first into a nearby wall. The impact caused catastrophic spinal injuries, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit says that, despite prior knowledge of the dangerous layout of the triple jump pit which was in violation of applicable safety standards, no corrective action was taken by the defendants responsible for the facility’s design, maintenance, and oversight during track and field events. According to the complaint, the triple jump pit was dangerously located less than five feet from a wall, despite the National Federation of State High School Associations and Illinois High School Association having updated their safety standards in 2020 to require longer and safer pit designs. It is further alleged that the pit’s proximity to the wall and other dangerous obstructions, the failure to properly maintain the landing surface, and the inadequate protective measures were all well-known risks that had been ignored. “The dangers associated with this facility were not hypothetical. The risks were visible, repeated, and completely preventable,” said Partner Craig Brown of Meyers & Flowers. “Our client is now left to deal with a life-altering injury because the responsible parties chose to do nothing.” The complaint names the Sterling Park District, Sterling Community Unit School District 5, and Rock Falls Township High School District #301 as defendants, alleging willful and wanton conduct. Attorney James McPhedran of Meyers & Flowers emphasized the broader implications ofthe case: “This isn’t just about one facility or one track meet. It underscores the duty thatschools and park districts have to protect the safety of the young people who depend onthem. Ignoring clear safety standards can never become an acceptable practice.” “Athletes, coaches, and parents have the right to expect that athletic facilities comply with established safety standards governing their use.," said Attorney Christopher Warmbold. "Our firm is dedicated to ensuring these institutions are held accountable so that preventable incidents like this do not occur in the future.” Athlete's family seeks help Dylan Wescott's family now seeks donations to help in his recovery. Dylan is a senior at Rock Falls High School. Like every other year, he was a member of the track team as a triple jumper.: During a warmup before a track meet, Dylan slipped and hit his head. “I was next to him when he hit his head and I was holding his hand and I was there for a while,” said Issac Duchay, a friend of Dylan. “When I was tapping his leg, he said he couldn’t feel it.” “He ended up breaking his C-7 vertebra in his neck,” said Kim Kilday, Dylan’s aunt. “He had a couple others that were pressed against his spinal cord. So he has suffered paralysis from his chest down.” Since then, Dylan has spent time at a hospital in Rockford, before moving to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. He’s had two surgeries that took a total of 14 hours. He’s making progress. “In just the short time he’s been there, he’s actually been able to do some fine motor (skills) with his hands, with adaptations,” said Kilday. “They’re slowly progressing, (and we’re) hoping that eventually he’ll be able to feed himself.” However his recovery has included many heartbreaks. “Along with the excitement, though, comes the extreme sadness,” said Kilday. “He’s really missing his friends, his family. He’s an 18-year-old kid who’s missing out on the last three months of his high-school career.” Fortunately, his friends, family, school and community have his back. Dylan with his parents (Kim Kilday) “All kinds of schools have reached out to me and I know the family as well,” said Eric Bontz, Dylan’s track and field coach at Rock Falls High School. “I know a lot of them have done their own fundraisers to help support Dylan. It’s been really crazy just watching how much actually people care about things like this, and it’s good to see.” “I have this bracelet that says ‘Dylan Strong’ on it. I’m wearing it every day,” said Duchay. “It makes me feel really good knowing that there’s people behind him, trying to help him out, because no one should go through that alone,” said Ajay Kobbeman, another friend of Dylan’s. “Overwhelming, that’s the only word that we have,” said Kilday. “Total strangers are reaching out, the community, all the surrounding schools. It’s just been overwhelming, and we are truly thankful for everything.” To donate to Dylan’s medical expenses, click here. For updates on his recovery and upcoming fundraisers, click here.
	Quad Cities massage therapists receiving influx of inappropriate requests following human trafficking bust It started after suspicious activity was reported inside numerous Bettendorf massage parlors, leading to the arrest of 58-year-old Heling Di.
	Muscatine man arrested after protest disturbance A Muscatine man is facing multiple charges after a disturbance near a protest.
	Davenport housing project's future may depend on city-backed loan The future of an affordable housing project in Davenport may come down to a city-backed loan that is due. (Eric Olsen, OurQuadCities.com) City staff told council members Wednesday night that the project could be lost without the loan. The Annie Wittenmyer property dates back to the Civil War. A plan to develop more than 40 affordable housing units for the property came together last year through a private developer with low income housing tax credits (LIHTC) from the Iowa Finance Authority through HUD - it's the environmental review from a second HUD program that could derail the project. With that in mind, developers and city staff discussed what amounts to a bridge loan. "That is virtually how all the LIHTC projects have been funded in davenport and in most communities across the country," said Bruce Berger, City of Davenport community and economic development director. But the loan is drawing criticism in and out of council for whether it will be protected. Council member Jazmin Newton asked "Is there anything we can do to essentially ensure that?" "Everything you can do is in the agreement already," Berger said. One person attending the meeting asked "Can I borrow some money from the city at zero percent interest and a balloon payment 30 years out, please?"City council members also pushed for more information from Chris Ales, who's been the face of the development. Ales says he's the project's historic tax credit consultant-- not the future owner. "Brian Fritz is the owner of the campus," Ales said. "He owns Pioneer Property Management. They have several thousand apartments under management. They are highly regarded by the Iowa Finance Authority." Alderman Kyle Gripp helped close the discussion with a plea to approve the loan: "You can provide 46 affordable housing units for the City of Davenport and keep a Civil War-age orphanage from being torn down because the city cannot afford to continue to maintain that property." The council moved the item to the discussion agenda of next week's city council meeting. Newton requested city staff provide more information on the investors in the project ahead of the next discussion about the loan.
	Rock Island Arsenal implements stricter security measures The Rock Island Arsenal announced stricter security measures on Wednesday.
	Saturday SCORCHER on the way! Get ready for a serious dose of some summertime heat and humidity this weekend! We are under an Extreme Heat Watch for Saturday and Sunday, this could easily be extended through Monday and Tuesday too. The combination of heat and humidity will make it fell like it's about 105° Saturday afternoon! Sunday looks just as hot...
	Opening statements begin in retrial of man charged with killing 2, setting fire to bodies Devon Braet is charged with killing Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith and setting their bodies on fire in a Davenport apartment.
	No charges filed yet as members of eastern Iowa ministry share stories of salvation, deny abuse allegations Last week, police removed 88 children who were attendees of the church and a summer bible camp as part of a child abuse and endangerment investigation.
	Live-Work Rock Island’s next phase works to continue to strengthen workforce, grow homeownership According to program leaders, this program helps preserve and gfgrow homeownership in the city.
	'A fresh start': Members say they find solace in eastern Iowa church, deny abuse reports Last week, police removed 88 children who were attendees of the church and a summer bible camp as part of a child abuse and endangerment investigation.
	See it here: Moline unveils Riverfront Reimagined Plan After more than a year of community input, technical analysis and collaborative planning, the City of Moline and Renew Moline are proud to share the final Riverfront Reimagined Plan. City of Moline (moline.il.us) This plan outlines a clear path for transforming the area beneath and around the new I-74 bridge into a more connected, vibrant and accessible part of downtown. It includes recommendations for mixed-use development, new public green spaces, walking and biking paths, and infrastructure improvements. The primary plan area is generally bounded by the Mississippi River to the north, 7th Avenue to the south, 18th Street to the west, and 23rd Street to the east. A secondary area extends the eastern boundary to 25th Street. The plan is grounded in community feedback and aims to support long-term economic growth, environmental resilience and a higher quality of life for residents and visitors alike. You can view the full Riverfront Reimagine Plan here and learn more about what’s next for Moline’s riverfront.
	Bettendorf 7th grader wins national award for book ban documentary Adrian Gillette's documentary looked at the only court case on book banning to reach the Supreme Court, as well as how modern day bans impact libraries and students.
	Sirens activated after funnel clouds spotted in Scott County Two funnel clouds were observed in Scott County on Wednesday afternoon, according to a news release from Melissa Ketcham, director of the Scott Emergency Communications Center (scottcountyiowa.gov/ema) About 2:50 p.m., the Scott Emergency Communications Center (SECC) "received credible reports" from Scott County Sheriff’s Deputies and personnel with a rural fire department of two rotating funnel clouds in the area of U.S. Highway 61, near Park View, Eldridge, and Long Grove, the release says. In the interest of public safety, SECC activated the countywide outdoor warning sirens at 2:56 p.m. to alert residents to the potential tornado threat. A second siren activation occurred at 3:12 p.m. as weather conditions continued to develop. The release says that, although no formal tornado warning had been issued by the National Weather Service at the time, the decision to activate the sirens was based on real-time visual confirmation from trained emergency responders. This proactive measure aligns with Scott County’s commitment to protecting lives through early and effective alerting. Outdoor warning sirens are designed to warn people who are outdoors to seek shelter immediately and monitor trusted weather sources for additional information and instructions.
	Galesburg family expands foundation to support veterans’ mental health A new nonprofit is working to bring mental health services to veterans and their families in Galesburg.
	What the Supreme Court’s ruling on trans youth health care in Tennessee means for Iowa families SCOTUS upheld a Tennessee law banning gender-affirming care for minors, cementing a similar law in Iowa and sending some families to Illinois for care.
	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: CALVIN BENDIX, 42, 6’, 225 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. Wanted by Iowa DOC for escape and Scott County Sheriff’s Office for probation violation on convictions for possession controlled substance, interference with official acts and operating a vehicle without consent. He is also wanted by Galesburg Police for failure to appear in court on charges of possession of meth, possession drug paraphernalia and resisting police. CHAD ERWIN, 41, 6’1”, 180 pounds, blonde hair, blue eyes. Wanted by Scott County Sheriff’s Department and Iowa DOC for parole violation on convictions for eluding, possession controlled substance and theft. Calvin Bendix (L) and Chad Erwin (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.
	Harassment of massage therapists in the Quad Cities rising after human trafficking investigation Therapists described sexual harassment over the phone, social media and even in-person.
	Bettendorf school officials, first responders simulate school shooter emergencies There are no days off when it comes to school safety. "It's a reality in America today. We have to be prepared for the worst," said Doug Scott, Bettendorf police chief. The Bettendorf Community School District and police and fire departments worked side by side, Wednesday, through potential active shooting situations. "We want our community's families and students to understand that their safety is of the utmost importance to us as a district, and that we are taking the time to really work and learn things that we can to be better," said Sarah Harris, Bettendorf Community School District's student service coordinator. School officials and first responders said clear communication during an emergency is critical. "(The police and fire departments) annually are going through it once, if not twice," Harris said. "All of our staff is dealing with just this type of active threat response." Wednesday's simulation covered transition from a school lockdown to getting students back to their families. "We need (the police and fire department) expertise and knowledge to help lead our response, and recovery, and planning to help keep our students and staff as safe as possible in the event of any kind of situation or emergency," Harris said. "You're trying to simulate what it looks like in real life the best that you can," Scott said. "We've learned a lot about what our capabilities are today, about what resources we bring to the table, and things for improvement in the future."
	Muscatine man faces charges after incident at public demonstration A 22-year-old Muscatine man was arrested Wednesday after an incident Saturday during a public demonstration, according to a news release from Muscatine Police. Austin Payne (Muscatine Police) Shortly before 2:30 p.m., Austin Gauge Payne was taken into custody at the Muscatine County Jail by Muscatine Police. He faces charges of disorderly conduct, reckless driving, criminal mischief and traffic-related offenses. All are simple misdemeanors. He also was in custody for an active arrest warrant for violating conditions of pretrial releasestemming from May charges of first-degree burglary, first-degree harassment and assault with bodily injury. Shortly before 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14, Muscatine Police responded to a disturbance at Park Avenue and Jackson Street near a public demonstration. Callers reported they saw a truck, later identified as Payne’s vehicle, "driving recklessly by conducting a burnout while blowing large clouds of exhaust smoke toward persons at the event," the release says. Payne has been released on bond from Muscatine County Jail.
	What the Supreme Court’s ruling on trans youth health care in Tennessee means for Iowa families SCOTUS has upheld a Tennessee law banning gender-affirming care for minors, cementing Iowa’s similar law and sending some families to Illinois for care.
	Funnel clouds spotted in eastern Iowa Wednesday afternoon The National Weather Service said the conditions were favorable for brief spin-ups, but not "strong-long-lived rotations."
	Current Reads: 3 novels readers in DeWitt can't put down As the temps heat up, here are three novels to relax and cool down with. Get lost in stories of a global friendship, a Tokyo library and the Siege of Sarajevo.
	Clinton County Sheriff warns public about thieves Anyone who encounters these travelers is asked to contact law enforcement.
	Davenport double murder trial begins for second defendant Opening statements began Wednesday in Devon Braet’s trial. He’s charged in the 2024 killings of Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith.
	Testimony begins in trial of Davenport man accused of 2024 double homicide Devon Braet's attorney told jurors Wednesday that Adriana Blake pulled the trigger and killed Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith.
	Double homicide trial of Devon Braet begins Opening statements and testimony began on Tuesday.
	Architect describes Moline downtown revitalization plan The master plan was presented on Tuesday night.
	Bettendorf 7th grader creates documentary for national history competition Adrian Gillette joined the Current to talk about his documentary and his experience showing it off all the way in Washington D.C.
	Crews respond to barge fire in Bettendorf Multiple fire crews battled a barge fire Wednesday morning.
	Muscatine man arrested Wednesday in connection to June 12 stabbing A Muscatine man has been arrested following an investigation into a stabbing that occurred in Muscatine on June 12 in the 300 block of Liberty Street, according to police.
	135-year-old building torn down in Davenport The building at 711 West Third Street was located just off Gaines Street.
	Family of child with Shaken Baby Syndrome raises funds for accessible home Two parents in Monmouth are updating their home to meet the needs of their oldest son, Piersen. The 13 year old is a survivor of Shaken Baby Syndrome. (Timothy Eaker) In 2014, the family followed an ambulance during a February storm. Inside, their nearly two year old son had stopped breathing. In the hospital room, the family learned he would have life long complications after an incident at a daycare. "What we saw was terrifying," said Timothy Eaker, Piersen's dad. "Piersen had went at least six minutes without oxygen. He had suffered extensive brain damage and the medical community diagnosed him with shaken baby syndrome." After two hundred days in the hospital, the family went home. With regular help from nurses, they have managed the more than 30 health issues that came with Shaken Baby Syndrome, but with everyday Piersen grows, the house becomes a tighter fit. "He's 13 now, nearly a hundred pounds, four foot eight," said Eaker. "As he got bigger and the wheelchair got bigger, the hallway became too narrow." "That's probably his biggest struggle, is his communication," said Stacey Hawkins, the family's in-home nurse. "Now as far as joy, he has plenty of that." The family started a GoFundMe, raising more than $90,000 to fix up the house for Piersen, including a new bedroom, bathroom and therapy area. Their goal is $100,000. "Piersen's had bed baths for the past few years because we can't get him to a bath tub," said Candis Steele, Piersen's mom. "Now he had his first shower two weeks ago and he just enjoyed it so much. You know he's a teenaged boy, he needs his space." The family is still working on making the house more Piersen-friendly, with a current goal of 100 thousand dollars for the renovations, but in the meantime, they are grateful for how the community has stepped up. "Truly a blessing, with so many people that want to be involved in making his life better," said Steele. "It makes us feel like we're not so much alone." The family also started the nonprofit Piersen Strong, which they intend to use as an educational platform about survivors of Shaken Baby Syndrome.
	DANGEROUS heat to engulf the Quad Cities this weekend Our first Extreme Heat Watch has been issued for Saturday and Sunday. Highs will hit the middle 90s and heat index values will be well over 100° during the afternoons this weekend. Don't count on much relief at night either...it'll still feel like it's in the middle 80s in the middle of the night! We'll have team coverage and safety tips galore over the next couple days...stay tuned for more of that! In the meantime, remember to drink a lot of water and try to stay in the A/C or in the pool this weekend!
	Devon Braet double homicide trial Day 1: Opening statements, testimony begins Opening statements began Wednesday morning in the double homicide case of Devon Braet. He faces 15 charges in connection with the deaths of Brian Goodwin and Amy Smith on January 16, 2024. Devon Braet (Scott County Jail) Our Quad Cities Nwes crew was in the courtroom when Scott County Attorney Kelly Cunningham began by reading the charges against Braet. She reviewed the facts behind his arrest and the timeline of the events of Jan. 15 -16, 2024 for the jury. Defense attorney Jill Ann Eimermann began her opening statements: “Adriana Blake shot Amy Smith and Brian Goodwin. Nobody else, not Devon.” She reminded the jury that the burden of proof in the case rested with the state. The prosecution called its first witness after the morning break. Hong Vu lived next door to the address where Goodwin and Smith died. She was returning home from taking her child to an emergency room just before 4 a.m. on Jan. 16 when she saw smoke coming from Goodwin’s home. Tracey Screechfield, deputy director of the Scott Emergency Communications Center, testified that Vu’s call to 911 came in at about 3:55 a.m. Vu told dispatchers that the fire had spread to the roof. Another 911 call about the fire came in at about 3:59 a.m. from a passerby who reported “the whole street is covered in smoke.” Screechfield also testified about how 911 calls are managed and how long call logs are kept. She continued her testimony after the lunch break, where she explained how and why cell phones are “pinged” to show location. Davenport Detective Aric Robinson testified next, and explained the investigative process and how police gathered evidence in the case. He said they collected a great deal of video from across Davenport and other areas that traced Braet and Blake’s whereabouts. License plate readers helped track them, Robinson said. Testimony in the trial continues Thursday in Scott County Court in Davenport. Two bodies found at the scene of a fire On May 30, in connection with the same case, a Scott County jury found Adriana Blake guilty on two charges each of first-degree murder, first-degree robbery, assault while committing a felony – serious injury and use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime. She was found not guilty of one count of going armed with intent. Adriana Blake (Prieto) (Scott County Jail) A fire and two suspicious deaths Shortly before 4 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, Davenport Police and Fire responded to the 5200 block of North Division Street for a report of a structure fire. Davenport Fire crews arrived to find moderate smoke showing from an apartment and quickly extinguished the fire, according to arrest affidavits and Davenport Police. During a search of the apartment, firefighters found two people deceased. They were identified as 44-year-old Brian L. Goodwin and 44-year-old Amy M. Smith, police say. Police allege Braet and Blake (Prieto) placed a combustible material inside of the residence where the deceased victims were located, according to police and affidavits. Officers say the two knowingly acted together “to mutilate the bodies of the victims by the use of fire in an attempt to conceal the crime of murder,” police allege. On Jan. 18, 2024, Braet and Blake (Prieto) were taken into custody on outstanding warrants. A detective testifies Goodwin and Smith both had been shot, according to earlier testimony from Davenport Police Detective Brandon Askew. He said the shooting took place between 4:30 and 7 a.m. Jan. 15. Askew said two guns were recovered.
	Artist brings larger-than-life puppets to small towns Brant Bollman founded Uplifting Puppet Co. two years ago to build community and spark imagination through puppetry. Since then, his giant birds, glowing turtles, towering skeletons and colorful fish have made appearances across Iowa.
	Crews respond to barge fire on Bettendorf shoreline Wednesday morning Nobody was on the boat at the time of the fire, officials said. The cause is unknown at this time and is under investigation.
	Bettendorf responds to barge fire Wednesday morning Bettendorf firefighters responded to a barge on fire along the shoreline of the Mississippi River on Wednesday, according to a news release.
	Current Reads: 3 novels readers in DeWitt are loving right now As the temps heat up, here are three novels to relax and cool down with. Get lost in stories of a global friendship, a Tokyo library and the Siege of Sarajevo.
	Arrest made in Muscatine stabbing investigation Muscatine police have arrested 22-year-old Gabriel Garcia in connection with a June 12 stabbing that left one man hospitalized.
	Man arrested in connection with stabbing that left 1 injured A Muscatine man was arrested Wednesday morning in connection with a stabbing that left one man injured in Muscatine on Thursday.
	News 8 This Week: June 18, 2025 News 8 This Week: June 18, 2025
	Bettendorf firefighters respond to barge fire Bettendorf firefighters responded to an unusual call for service this morning – a barge was reported on fire along the Mississippi River. The Bettendorf Fire Department (BFD) was dispatched for a report of a barge on fire along the shoreline of the 2900 block of Depot Street in the Mississippi River on June 18 at about 10:08 a.m. They responded with support from area agencies and quickly found and extinguished the fire. The Moline Fire Department, Rock Island Arsenal Fire Department, U.S. Coast Guard and Illinois Conservation Police assisted, according to a news release from the Bettendorf Fire Department. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is unknown. There was no one aboard the barge at the time of the fire.
	Recognizing a stroke: BE FAST can save a life Every second counts when it comes to stroke. UI Health Care, home to the region’s only comprehensive stroke center, informs viewers on how to recognize stroke when you see it.
	Who ran the camp where 88 children were taken into protective custody? The Kingdom Ministry’s Rehab and Rehabilitation Camp, where a child safety operation took place Monday, is ran by the Chin people, an ethnic group from Myanmar.
	Cook review: 'Wick is Pain' documents a franchise that almost never was The problem with the entries in the John Wick franchise are a problem for fans: It's tough to wait for the next episode in this ultra-violent, high-action series. 'Wick Is Pain' (IMDb) But now there's "Wick Is Pain," a documentary that shows longtime viewers and newcomers alike how the first "Wick" almost didn't get made ... and the challenges involved in delivering smart "gun fu" over the years. Just about all the odds were against the first "John Wick," which as an independent actioner that no one ever dreamed would become a hit - let alone the first of a string of hits. I won't ruin it for newbies, but the first film is truly a revenge film - with an origin so grim the filmmakers David Leitch and Chad Stahelski - whose careers in stunt work are among the most fascinating parts of the movie - weren't sure whether to include it. The ties that connect "John Wick" to the 1994 "The Crow" - one of my favorite films of all time - surprised me, and made me appreciate both films even more. It also surprised me how much a part of this documentary Reeves is. He's a huge presence, recalling the origins of his character, the gazillion times he was injured during filming, and remembering how certain scenes were created (I'd watch it again to enjoy these sequences alone.) This documentary also is a tribute to the stunt work that's at the core of so much of the Wick series, from car chases to Wick's plummet from the Continental. It's as full of action and intrigue as a "Wick" flick. 4 stars Running time: Two hours and six minutes. Unrated, but similar to an "R" for violence and foul language. "Wick Is Pain" is streaming on YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home. Watch the trailer here. .
	Visit these state historic sites this summer There is plenty to learn at historic locations across the state of Iowa.
	Food Truck Fight to feature no duplicate cuisines Organizers said for the first time ever the food truck lineup has no duplications in food items.
	The signs are obvious: Wayfinding Program takes shape in Muscatine Muscatine residents and visitors will notice new additions to city streets and sidewalks as the first phase of the City of Muscatine’s comprehensive Wayfinding Program begins to take shape, a news release says. (City of Muscatine) This initiative marks a significant investment in enhancing navigation, boosting the visitor experience, and supporting local businesses, parks, and cultural attractions. “City leaders are committed to enhancing and improving the vitality of our community core and gateway areas to support a thriving economy, vibrant neighborhoods, and a high quality of life,” said City Administrator Matt Mardesen. “The Wayfinding Program is a key City Council priority for building a safe and vibrant community.” The first round of installations includes consistent, visually distinctive signage for motorists, pedestrians, and public parking areas. These signs are designed to help people easily find key destinations, identify districts, and orient themselves across the city. Each sign reflects Muscatine’s unique character, incorporating nature-inspired themes that align with the city’s "River and Nature" brand. Key benefits of the Wayfinding Program: Improved navigation: Clear and intuitive signage will make it easier for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to access major destinations, city services, and cultural landmarks. Stronger community identity: A cohesive design enhances the city’s aesthetic appeal while showcasing what makes Muscatine special. Economic support: By directing people to shopping, dining, and entertainment areas, wayfinding helps drive foot traffic to local businesses. Enhanced visitor experience: Visitors can confidently explore Muscatine, which encourages longer stays and return visits. Initial signs are now visible in Downtown Muscatine and near key gateways to the city. Additional signage will be installed citywide in phases over the next several years. The program was developed with guidance from Corbin Design, a nationally recognized wayfinding consultant. In January 2023, the City of Muscatine contracted with Corbin to create a Wayfinding Master Plan focused on improving citywide navigation and supporting economic development. The final plan was adopted by the Muscatine City Council in January 2024. (City of Muscatine) Titled "Direction in Motion," the program includes: Monument and gateway signs welcoming travelers to Muscatine; Directional signage linking parks, cultural institutions, and business districts; Enhanced visibility for key neighborhoods and amenities for those traveling by car, bike, or on foot. Implementation officially began in June 2024 when the City Council approved a $243,204 contract with Geograph Industries for the fabrication and installation of signs. The first major signs include two monument markers along Highway 61 at the north and south entrances to the city. The Wayfinding Program was incorporated into Muscatine’s Urban Renewal Plan and approved by the Muscatine City Council in January 2022. The five-year program is funded through annual Tax Increment Financing (TIF) allocations of $150,000, totaling $750,000 by completion. A request for proposals (RFP) was issued in September 2022, resulting in nine submissions. Following a review and interview process, Corbin Design was selected as the lead consultant. As the installation continues, the City of Muscatine invites residents and visitors alike to explore the community with fresh eyes—and greater ease. Share a pic if you see one with one, or more, of the following hashtags. #Muscatine #Wayfinding #DirectionInMotion #ExploreMuscatine
	Man facing sexual abuse charges, sheriff’s office says Deputies said on May 10 officials received a call about a possible sexual assault.
	Supreme Court upholds Tennessee law that bars gender-affirming care for minors At issue was a Tenneessee law that bars minors from accessing gender-affirming care as they transition from their sex assigned at birth.
	Supreme Court upholds Tennessee law that bars gender-affirming care for minors At issue was a Tenneessee law that bars minors from accessing gender-affirming care as they transition from their sex assigned at birth.
	Advocates to hold “Roost-In” at City Hall ahead of TIF hearing Advocates plan to hold another “Roost-In” ahead of the hearing from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday outside of Rock Island City Hall.
	Iowa hospital has warning about e-bikes An Iowa hospital is warning about injuries from e-bikes.
	Voy 61 Drive In, south of Maquoketa, hosts first family night of the season The Voy 61 Drive In Theatre, south of Maquoketa, Iowa, will host its first family night of the season on Thursday, June 19, a news release says. Admission is $5 per vehicle. Everyone will receive a free souvenir Coca Cola cup (while supplies last.) Before the movie, free activities will include face painting, train rides and more. There's a sand box, swing set, basketball court, wiffle ball diamond, tether ball and volleyball, along with a concession stand. Customers can bring their own food and tailgate before the movie. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. and the movie "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" will start about 9 p.m. or dusk. For more information, visit here.
	Take a look at Moline's plan to overhaul its riverfront The development could create over 300 residential units in the downtown area and up to 60 hotel rooms by the riverfront.
	City of Moline celebrating new affiliation with multiple community events This week, the city of Moline is celebrating "Pollinator Week" in recognition of its "Bee City USA" affiliation with multiple environmental awareness events.
	3 Things to Know \| Quad Cities morning headlines for June 18, 2025 East Moline workers are beginning construction on the city's downtown area, and this weekend, step back in time in LeClaire at the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show.
	Linn County jail holding inmates for ICE under new housing agreement Linn Co. a 3-year housing agreement with the U.S. Marshal Service. The county gets $140 per inmate per day for housing people for ICE.
	Illinois’ direct admission bill accelerates college application process for in-state students The General Assembly passed the Public University Direct Admission Program Act at the end of May.
	Enjoy free music in Galva's Wiley Park Grab your lawn chairs and enjoy a night of free live music at Galva's Wiley Park. Galva Arts Council will welcome Kiran Ahluwalia and Amanda Fish to the area Sunday, June 22, as part of the 2025 Levitt AMP Galva Music Series. Every Sunday through Aug. 3, this family-friendly concert series will bring free live music to Wiley Park in Galva. All concerts begin at 6 p.m., end around 8:30 p.m., and feature two acts per night. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable lawn seating. A variety of food and non-food vendors will be on-site, and guests are also welcome to bring in outside food. Amanda Fish began as a singer songwriter in late 2012, refining her original material as a solo act for 2 years before she formed her band in early 2014, a roots rock and soul project featuring Amanda's signature 'from-the-gut' vocals. In 2015, she released her first all-original LP, "Down In The Dirt" on VizzTone Label Group, for which she was awarded the 2016 "Sean Costello Rising Star" Blues Blast Music Award. She became a semifinalist in the 2017 International Blues Challenge where she garnered acclaim from new fans and industry professionals alike. From her performance at the IBC, she was able to start touring the US and Canada. In 2018, Fish released her second all original studio album, "Free," on VizzTone Label Group, debuting at #6 on the Billboard Blues Album Chart and nabbing a 2019 Blues Music Award for Best Emerging Artist Album. During the 2020 COVID-19 crisis, Fish cut an album of home-recorded demos of her newly written music, aptly named "Trailer Park Demos," which she self-released exclusively through her website in 2021. Over the next three years, heavily influenced by her experiences of new parenthood and the shift from playing music to working as a CNA during the pandemic lockdowns, civil unrest, and government corruption, Fish wrote and recorded a new album entitled "Kingdom." The long-awaited new album, described as "A journey of faith, redemption, and hope against a backdrop of chaos and upheaval, "Kingdom" returns time and again to its message of truth and love", was released on VizzTone Label Group in July 2024. Kiran Ahluwalia’s open-hearted vocals have established her as one of global music’s most compelling cross-pollinators. She writes songs of breakup and love with equal conviction, organically mixing Indian music with West African Blues and American Jazz. Its combination of ethereal elegance and raw urgency is immediately welcoming and ultimately universal, a sound quite unlike anything you’ve heard. Her five-piece band is led by ace guitarist Rez Abbasi whose accolades include the Guggenheim Fellowship and frequent appearances in the Top Ten Guitarists of Downbeat’s International Critics Poll. Ahluwalia and Rez are a real-life couple, one born in India, the other in Pakistan. Having grown up in the Diaspora they crossed ethnic and religious lines between their two warring motherlands to forge a musical and life partnership. Over the course of seven albums, Ahluwalia has garnered numerous awards including two JUNOs (Canadian Grammys) and her work has featured collaborations with leading musicians from the Celtic and Fado worlds, as well as Malian super group, Tinariwen. Her reworking of the classic Qawwali tune Mustt Mustt has amassed over 3 million views online and the inspiration that drove her to create it continues to inform her music today. Event information Street parking is available around the park and surrounding areas. Do not park in the park. New this year, handicap-accessible seating is in the northwest corner of the park, with a designated unloading zone and golf cart shuttle service available for assistance. Those with golf carts/UTVs are asked to keep their vehicles on the perimeter of the audience to prevent blocking the view of guests and minimize the risk of accident while driving through the park. The Levitt AMP Galva Music Series is supported by many community sponsors, donors, and volunteers, and the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, a private foundation that empowers towns and cities across America to transform underused public spaces into thriving destinations through the power of free, live music. Learn more here.
	Resignations, hirings and other personnel news from North Scott School District The following personnel items are from the May 27 agenda of the North Scott School District. The School Board met at the Administrative Office.
	Iran warns of 'irreparable consequences' as Trump weighs U.S. role in conflict Iran's Supreme Leader struck back at Trump's calls for Tehran's "unconditional surrender," warning that any U.S. involvement in Israel's offensive would cause "irreparable harm" to Americans.
	New principal, retirements, resignations, hirings, other Davenport School District personnel news for May 27 See the personnel items from the May 27 agenda of the Davenport Community School District. The School Board met at Davenport Community School District at 1702 N. Main St., Davenport.
	Downtown Muscatine wayfinding program taking shape Muscatine residents and visitors will notice new additions to city streets and sidewalks as the first phase of the city's comprehensive Wayfinding Program begins to take shape.
	Orion Village Board ponders location of new digital sign After learning the new sign is on the state right-of-way and needs to be moved, trustees discussed a new location with no resolution.
	Resignations, hirings and other Moline School District personnel news from May 27 See personnel items from the May 27 agenda of the Moline-Coal Valley School District. The board met at the Moline Education Center, 1900 52nd Ave. in Moline.
	Quad-Cities community leaders detail effects proposed Medicaid cuts would have About a dozen community leaders gathered at the Community Health Care office in Rock Island for a round table discussion with U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen.
	LEGISLATOR REVIEW: Gosa proud of bills expanding cancer coverage for firefighters, lowering age for permit to carry handgun Democratic Iowa state Rep. Dan Gosa of Davenport shares his highlights and disappointments from the 2025 legislative session.
	QC Safer Foundation leader promoted to new role Safer Foundation has announced the promotion of Erica Lee to associate vice president of regional operations - Quad Cities, a role that reflects her outstanding leadership and longstanding commitment to advancing reentry and workforce opportunity in the region. In her new capacity, a news release says, Erica Lee (The Safer Foundation) Lee will oversee the strategic direction and day to-day operations for all Safer Foundation programs in the Quad Cities region, spanning both Illinois and Iowa. She will lead local partnerships, workforce collaborations, and service expansion efforts, while continuing to guide a diverse portfolio of reentry, education, and employment services that support individuals with arrest or conviction records. Lee joined Safer Foundation in 2018 as assistant director of the Quad Cities office and waspromoted to director in 2021. Under her leadership, the region has seen consistent programgrowth, deeper community integration, and enhanced service delivery for justice-impactedyouth and adults. She has spearheaded the expansion of the Youth Empowerment Program(YEP), championed trauma-informed care practices, and strengthened connections withemployer and training partners to better meet the needs of both job seekers and the localeconomy. According to Sodiqa Williams, Safer Foundation’s chief Program officer, “Throughout her tenure, Erica has embraced collaboration and communication, fostering strong partnerships that drive better outcomes for those we serve. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to Safer’s mission, and a forward-thinking approach grounded in evidence-based innovation. Shecontinuously seeks new ways to strengthen reentry, workforce, and education or life skillsservices, helping us remain at the forefront of effective, person-centered programming.” “Our success in the Quad Cities wouldn’t be possible without the incredible dedication of theSafer staff,” said Lee. “Their passion, commitment, and unwavering belief in those we serve drive everything we do. I’m also deeply grateful to our advisory board, whose support has been vital to our progress. As we near our 50th year in the Quad Cities, I look forward to further growing Safer’s regional impact and continuing to champion second chances.” A Quad Cities native, Lee earned a master of social work from St. Ambrose University and a bachelor of arts in psychology from Augustana College. She is a licensed master level social worker (LMSW) in both Iowa and Illinois, bringing nearly two decades of experience in criminal justice, child welfare, and human services. Her career encompasses both clinical and administrative leadership, with a steadfast commitment to empowering the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our community. Lee is also an inaugural recipient of the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal’s Forty Under 40,which honors emerging leaders making a lasting impact in their fields and communities. About Safer Foundation Headquartered in Chicago, Safer Foundation is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits dedicated to disrupting cycles of recidivism and social injustice. Since 1972, Safer has helped people witharrest and conviction records secure employment, rebuild their lives, and strengthen their families. Each year, Safer serves more than 5,000 people, including 400 to 500 individuals in theQuad Cities region. Safer’s cornerstone program since 1976, Employment Services, recentlymoved to downtown Rock Island and its well-known Safer Sacks annual fundraiser celebrated20 years of delicious lunches in April. Learn more here.
	Pleasant Valley School District resignations, hirings from May 27 The following personnel items are from the May 27 agenda of the Pleasant Valley School District. The School Board met at Belmont Administration Center at 525 Belmont Rd., Riverdale, Iowa.
	DIRTcar Summer Nationals heat up Davenport Speedway On Monday night, Ryan Gustin made his first start with the DIRTcar Summer Nationals Late Models for the first time since 2022. Ryan Gustin On Tuesday at Davenport Speedway, the Marshalltown, Iowa native scored his first career win with the Hell Tour on his home turf in the Iowa Governor’s Cup. Gustin showed speed from the start of the night’s program by setting the fastest time in his Qualifying group, then drove towards the win in Heat 3. Gustin started alongside World of Outlaws Real American Beer Late Models presented by DIRTVision rookie contender Jake Timm for the start of the 30-lap race, with Gustin taking the lead early on the bottom of Turns 1-2 before shifting towards the top as Timm transitioned to the bottom. The two drivers stayed even with each other until Timm conceded the lead on Lap 6 after Gustin got clear of Timm and moved down to the bottom line. Amid the two drivers racing for the lead, Hampton, GA’s Ashton Winger began his charge towards his Outlaw competitors for the win at the 1/4-mile race track. In the first restart on Lap 6, Winger crossed Timm on the high lane to take second place, but could not mount a pass for the lead on the Todd Cooney Racing No. 19R Infinity Chassis. The three drivers each stayed within one second of each other through the halfway point until the final caution on Lap 21 gave Winger and Timm a final chance at overtaking Gustin. Gustin controlled the lanes behind him on the last restart as Timm took back second place over Winger by performing the exact move that the Jeff Mathews Motorsports No. 12 executed on him. Timm had to focus on maintaining his track position over Winger as “The Reaper” extended his lead to 2.5 seconds to capture his first career Hell Tour win, and his first win at Davenport. “We’ve lost a bunch of (races) here, whether it be flat tires or mechanical issues or whatever,” Gustin said. “It definitely feels really good to win here. It’s been an uphill battle for sure. We unloaded yesterday and didn’t know what the heck to do, so we worked on it all day today and found a bunch of things that weren’t correct. So we fixed them, and this thing drove right around there tonight.” Up Next: The DIRTcar Summer Nationals Late Models and DIRTcar Summit Racing Equipment Modified Nationals join forces for the first time in Week 2 for a night at Quincy Raceways on Wednesday, June 18. If you can’t make it to the track, you can watch every DIRTcar Summer Nationals race live on DIRTVision. 2025 DIRTcar Summer Nationals DATE WINNER AND TRACK JUN 10 BILLY MOYER, BROWNSTOWN, IN JUN 11 JASON FEGER, KANKAKEE, IL JUN 12 DRAKE TROUTMAN, PEORIA, IL JUN 13 (RAIN OUT) GRANITE CITY, IL JUN 14 BRIAN SHIRLEY, FAIRBURY, IL JUN 15 JASON FEGER, MAPLE PARK, IL JUN 16 DRAKE TROUTMAN, WILMOT. WI In six of the eight previous DIRTcar Summer Nationals events at Davenport, the Davenport winner has gone on to claim the Summer Nationals championship in that same year. Davenport Summer Nationals winners are: 1996 BILLY MOYER 1997 SCOTT BLOOMQUIST 1999 BILLY MOYER 2000 SHANNON BABB 2021 BOBBY PIERCE 2022 CHRIS SIMPSON 2023 DRAKE TROUTMAN 2024 TYLER ERB
	Some vitamin gummies sold at ALDI, BJ's recalled: FDA (WJW) — Some vitamin gummies sold at ALDI, BJ's Wholesale Club and online have been recalled, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The gummies potentially contain undeclared peanuts, the FDA says. The affected gummies could pose a serious risk to people with peanut allergies. Symptoms of peanut exposure can range from hives and itching, to anaphylaxis and even death, explains Mayo Clinic. Vita Warehouse Corp. voluntarily recalled one lot of the following products: Welby brand Vitamin B12 Energy Support gummy product 1000 mcg, 140 count Berkley Jensen Vitamin B12 1000 mcg, 250 count VitaGlobe Vitamin B12 Extra Strength, 60 count FDA officials said the recalled batch has a lot code of 248046601 and an October 2026 expiration date. This information will be printed on the bottom of the clear bottle. Some vitamin gummies sold at ALDI, BJ's Wholesale Club and online have been recalled, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The gummies potentially contain undeclared peanuts, the FDA says. (Credit: FDA) All other lots of these products are not affected, the recall said. The recalled vitamins were sold at ALDI and BJ's stores across the country, as well as on Amazon and VitaGlobe's website. Anyone who has a peanut allergy and purchased one of these recalled products should return them for a full refund or throw them away, the FDA said. Anyone experiencing an allergic reaction should seek out medical attention immediately. There have been no reported illnesses related to this recall. To learn more about the gummy vitamin recall, visit the FDA recalls section.
Tuesday, June 17th, 2025
	Kraft Heinz to remove artificial dyes from U.S. products in 2027 Kraft Heinz will be pulling artificial dyes from its U.S. products starting in 2027 and will no longer roll out new products with the dyes. The move comes nearly two months after U.S. health officials said that they would urge foodmakers to phase out petroleum-based artificial colors in the nation’s food supply. Kraft Heinz said Tuesday that almost 90% of its U.S. products already don't contain food, drug & cosmetic colors, but that the products that do still use the dyes will have them removed by the end of 2027. FD&C colors are synthetic additives that are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in food, drugs and cosmetics. Kraft Heinz said that many of its U.S. products that still use the FD&C colors are in its beverage and desserts categories, including certain products sold under brands including Crystal Light, Kool-Aid, Jell-O and Jet-Puffed. Kook-Aid drink (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma) The company said that it will instead use natural colors for the products. “The vast majority of our products use natural or no colors, and we’ve been on a journey to reduce our use of FD&C colors across the remainder of our portfolio," Pedro Navio, North America President at Kraft Heinz, said in a statement. Kraft Heinz stripped artificial colors, flavors and preservatives from its macaroni and cheese in 2016 and said it has never used artificial dyes in its ketchup. The company plans to work with licensees of its brands to encourage them to remove the dyes. In April, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary said at a news conference that the agency would take steps to eliminate the synthetic dyes by the end of 2026, largely by relying on voluntary efforts from the food industry. Health advocates have long called for the removal of artificial dyes from foods, citing mixed studies indicating they can cause neurobehavioral problems, including hyperactivity and attention issues, in some children. The FDA has maintained that the approved dyes are safe and that “the totality of scientific evidence shows that most children have no adverse effects when consuming foods containing color additives.” The FDA currently allows 36 food color additives, including eight synthetic dyes. In January, the agency announced that the dye known as Red 3 — used in candies, cakes and some medications — would be banned in food by 2027 because it caused cancer in laboratory rats. Artificial dyes are used widely in U.S. foods. In Canada and in Europe — where synthetic colors are required to carry warning labels — manufacturers mostly use natural substitutes. Several states, including California and West Virginia, have passed laws restricting the use of artificial colors in foods. Many U.S. food companies are already reformulating their foods, according to Sensient Colors, one of the world’s largest producers of food dyes and flavorings. In place of synthetic dyes, foodmakers can use natural hues made from beets, algae and crushed insects and pigments from purple sweet potatoes, radishes and red cabbage.
	Tom Barber named Alleman head varsity football coach The Alleman Pioneers will be returning to Western Big 6 action in varsity football.
	High school Baseball and Softball: June 17th Watch highlights from Pleasant Valley vs Davenport North baseball, Notre Dame vs Mediapolis baseball, and Holy Trinity vs Mediapolis softball.
	Iowa could override Reynolds' veto of eminent domain bill DES MOINES, Iowa -- The Iowa House secured the necessary number of signatures to call for a special session to override Governor Kim Reynolds' veto of the eminent domain bill. House Republicans announced on Tuesday that the House of Representatives obtained 70 signatures, surpassing the two-thirds majority required for the House to call for a special session per the Iowa Constitution. Last week, Gov. Reynolds vetoed House File 639 which aimed to limit the use of eminent domain by private companies for carbon pipelines. The news of the governor's veto came as a blow to politicians on both sides of the aisle who have worked for several years to pass legislation aimed at protecting property rights, with State Representative Steve Holt telling WHO 13 that the veto would "forever tarnish her [Gov. Reynolds'] legacy." Now, House leadership is calling on the Iowa Senate to secure the required number of signatures so they can convene the special session and override the governor's veto of the legislation. "This veto was a major setback for Iowa landowners and the tireless efforts of the House to safeguard property rights," House Speaker Pat Grassley said. "With 70 members of the House standing united, we've met the constitutional threshold to move forward. We now call on our colleagues in the Senate to join us by securing the necessary signatures so we can convene a special session, override this veto, and deliver the protections Iowa landowners deserve against eminent domain for private gain." The Senate would need to flip seven Republicans to obtain the two-thirds requirement, or 34 signatures, for the special session to occur. Iowa News:
	Quad Cities lawmakers hold listening session in Rock Island Rep. Eric Sorensen, IL Rep. Gregg Johnson and IL Sen. Mike Halpin all participated.
	Quad Cities lawmakers hold listening session in Rock Island Rep. Eric Sorensen, IL Rep. Gregg Johnson and IL Sen. Mike Halpin all participated.
	Moline offers look at riverfront overhaul plan The long-awaited development could create over 300 residential units and up to 60 hotel rooms.
	Christina Bohannan announces 2026 run for Congress in Iowa’s 1st District Democrat Christina Bohannan is running again for Iowa’s 1st Congressional District in 2026, setting up a likely rematch with Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks.
	Alleman Catholic High School names Tom Barber new head football coach Alleman Catholic High School has named Tom Barber the new Varsity Head Football Coach. Tom Barber (Alleman Catholic High School) According to a release, Barber has over 15 years of high school coaching experience, following his college football career. Since 2016, Barber served as the Varsity Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach at Riverdale High School. Prior to his time at Riverdale, Barber held the following positions: Davenport North High School - Offensive Line Coach, Sophomore Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator, Head Sophomore Football Coach & Offensive Coordinator, Wide Receivers/Tight Ends coach (Varsity) John R. Lewis High School, Springfield, VA - Wide Receivers Coach (Varsity), Offensive Coordinator (Junior Varsity), Special Teams Coordinator (Varsity) Waverly-Shell Rock High school, Waverly, IA - Assistant Football Coach & Defensive Coordinator (Sophomore), Wide Receivers/Outside Linebackers coach (Varsity) Barber is married and has two children.
	Why Iowa candidate said that ‘third time will be the charm’ Christina Bohannan, a Democrat from Iowa City, announced that she will make her third attempt to win a seat in Congress.
	Rotary Club installs Peace Poles throughout Rock Island Five new structures promoting peace are now on display around Rock Island. The Rock Island Rotary Club added the poles as part of the international Rotary World Peace Pole project. The poles feature the message 'May Peace Prevail On Earth' in eight different languages as an affirmation of peace and Rotary's goal of building a culture of peace throughout the world. Area poles are located outside the Rock Island Public Library, Friendship Manor, the Rock Island Fitness & Activity Center, Rock Island High School and the Quad City Botanical Center. For more information, click here.
	River Bandits get off to late start Tuesday night With rain threatening on the radar, the Quad Cities River Bandits pushed back the first pitch to 7:45 p.m. instead of 6:30 tonight. And with things underway, the threat for rain is still looming. Here's a shower on the NE side of the Quad Cities right now, only about 5 miles away from the ballpark: This is what the radar looks like at 8:20 p.m. That shower is about 5 miles away from Modern Woodmen Park. The River Bandits have great specials all this week as the homestand continues through Sunday afternoon. Earlier this evening:
	'A major milestone': East Moline breaks ground on downtown remodel Work on the Greater Downtown Revitalization Project is expected to be complete in 2027.
	Moline launches aid program for residents in recovery using opioid funds The City of Moline is launching a new financial assistance program to support residents recovering from addiction.
	Great Galena Balloon Race is this weekend The Great Galena Balloon Race benefits JDRF and Camp Hertko Hollow. The event has raised more than $350,000 for kids with diabetes since the event began in 2002.
	Augustana Hilltop Community has new executive director The removal of the former Curry Out QC building at 1407 30th St. marks a new beginning — opening space, both physically and symbolically, for growth in the College Hill District, a news release says. The former Curry Out QC building at 1407 30th St. was razed recently, clearing the way for long-term investment in the College Hill District. (Augustana College) Leading this next phase is Jerry Lack, newly appointed executive director of the Augustana Hilltop Community Development Corporation (CDC). A lifelong resident of the Quad Cities, Lack brings decades of experience in economic development, labor leadership and public service. He is known for his ability to build trust, form cross-sector partnerships and move complex projects forward. The Hilltop CDC was created through a partnership between Augustana College and the City of Rock Island to support neighborhood revitalization through housing, local business development and long-term investment in the College Hill District. “In every aspect of my career, I have collaborated with others to bring new life to the places we call home,” said Lack. “The Hilltop CDC is about building opportunity and ensuring the future of this community reflects the voices and hopes of those who live, learn and work here.” Lack most recently served as executive director of the Tri-City Building and Construction Trades Council. He previously led the Illowa Construction Labor & Management Council and spent more than two decades working for U.S. Congressman Lane Evans, serving as district director and economic and community development director. He holds a master of public administration from Drake University. “Jerry brings deep roots in this community and a track record of moving good ideas into action,” said Kirk Anderson, chair of the Hilltop CDC board and chief financial officer at Augustana College. “He’s a steady, trusted leader who understands both the complexity and the opportunity here. Under his leadership, the CDC can help spark meaningful, lasting neighborhood growth.” Tom Weigand, a founding Noodles & Company partner and CDC board member, has worked in both national business and neighborhood development. “I know the right leadership is critical from the start,” he said.“Jerry understands that revitalization is about earning trust, listening first, and building with the community.” Redevelopment plans for the Curry Out site are still in formation, and CDC leaders say they are prioritizing a space that reflects community pride and brings new energy to the area. Community members are encouraged to reach out, share ideas and be part of the vision. The CDC and the hire of its executive director advance a key priority of Augustana’s Bold & Boundless strategic plan, to “connect through partnership” by activating campus edges, investing in adjacent neighborhoods and building prosperity in Rock Island. The initiative reflects Augustana’s commitment to being a place-based partner for growth — a pillar for regional collaboration, economic opportunity and neighborhood vitality.
	Bettendorf to vote on new futsal court The court at Kiwanis Park will replace an underused basketball court.
	East Moline breaks ground on $30M downtown revitalization project The project will connect 15th Avenue with key downtown hotspots, aiming to reshape the city into a walkable destination.
	East Moline breaks ground on downtown revitalization The Greater Downtown East Moline Revitalization Project is underway. The nearly $30 million project connects the Rust Belt, The Bend and 15th Avenue, which is being reimagined as main street. "Not a lot of communities have, just down their road, a hotel motel area" said Connie Cornmesser, owner of Hey Bryans in East Moline. "They have a bin, they have a car show."The finished project is intended to bring events and more businesses to the city."They have all of these huge events which bring people out of the local area," said Cornmesser. "That's what we need to grow and to bring our, basically our revenue up in our community."Work is already going on in The Bend. Improved roads and walkways are coming to 15th Avenue. Walkability and accessibility are the focus."It's going to help us in the small business, because you're going to go to a concert, you're going to stop in to a local restaurant, a local bar," said Cornmesser. "Have a drink or something light to eat."The city wants to ensure access to local businesses isn't impeded for too long."It's vitally important for them, so it's vitally important for us to make sure that customers are still having access and still going to those businesses," said Mark Rothert, East Moline's city administrator. "We don't want them to suffer through construction season.""They actually stated 'we're doing a block at a time,'" said Cornmesser. "That in itself during this time of year will be very, very beneficial, we're just hoping the winter goes as smoothly."The work is expected to be done by 2027.
	Shock, denials follow removal of 88 children from Louisa County camp "Most of them were here for substance abuse," said one Shekinah Glory Camp volunteer. "They come here for God."

Wednesday, June 18th, 2025

Tuesday, June 17th, 2025