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

Small businesses see big boost as riders head to DeWitt for RAGBRAI

This is the first time DeWitt has been an overnight host for RAGBRAI

RAGBRAI riders roll into DeWitt

The annual bike ride across Iowa had never hosted an overnight stay in DeWitt before. Even with the last-minute decision, the town celebrated in style.

Mississippi Valley Fair set to return with beefed up security

Fair organizers encourage people to prepare for longer wait times to enter through the fair gates due to increased security.

Dewitt makes 400 gallons of vodka lemonade for Ragbrai party

The celebration welcomed bike riders from a week-long tour across the state of Iowa. We give you a BTS look at what went into the party.

Lottery numbers drawn Friday

ILLINOIS LOTTERY

Mississippi Valley Fair set to return with beefed up security

Fair organizers encourage people to prepare for longer wait times to enter through the fair gates due to increased security.

THIS WEEK: Rocky ready to be first area school to open this school year

First school day to include welcoming ceremony and mask mandates in elementary schools

Leading lawyer for Jussie Smollett can remain on case, judge rules, but can’t question 2 key witnesses

In a written order, Judge James Linn said the evidence “clearly and convincingly” shows that attorney Nenye Uche had spoken with those witnesses about the case in its early stages, an allegation that Uche has strenuously denied.

Cruise passenger says stop in Quad Cities is highlight of trip

Over 100 passengers on the Queen of the Mississippi spent the morning exploring the Quad Cities.

Cruise passenger says stop in Quad Cities is highlight of trip

Over 100 passengers on the Queen of the Mississippi spent the morning exploring the Quad Cities.

Delta variant rapidly spreads across the Quad Cities

As the COVID-19 virus continues to mutate, the delta variant has proven to be more contagious and severe than previous strands. Both Scott County and Rock Island County have declared their case levels qualify them as substantial risk transmission areas. This means the CDC recommends all individuals regardless of vaccination status wear masks indoors. The state of Illinois will be enforcing these recommendations -- requiring people to follow these guidelines if they are in communities deemed substantial- high risk. Health experts say the delta variant may be as contagious as the chicken pox. Furthermore, this strand of the virus can be tricky, because it gives some individuals more intense health effects, whereas others experience more mild symptoms -- which makes the virus near impossible to detect without a test. This facilitates spread of the virus even more easily. Experts plead with the community, asking residents to follow CDC guidelines to keep everyone safe. "You go into any store you see virtually 100% not masking, that means 50% of people are going into stores unvaccinated and unmasked," explains Janet Hill, Chief Operating Officer of the Rock Island County Health Department. Members of local health departments worry the virus will continue to mutate. The existent available vaccines are effective in preventing spread of the virus and all of it's variants -- for now. However, experts emphasize if the virus does continue to mutate, it could do so to a point beyond current vaccination control.

Rock Island and Scott counties reach "substantial" COVID-19 levels

Health officials from both counties confirmed that significant increases in COVID-19 cases over the past week have raised the threat level.

500 volunteers step up to work Dewitt RAGBRAI overnight stop

“I think that's small town Iowa. Everybody wants to be a part of something exciting that showcases their town.”

Hy-Vee, PLB Sports launch Field of Dreams Corn Flakes

Hy-Vee has partnered with PLB Sports and Entertainment and “Field of Dreams” star Dwier Brown to create a limited-edition cereal called Field of Dreams Corn Flakes available in select Hy-Vee stores across the Midwest. Field of Dreams Corn Flakes was created to commemorate the upcoming Field of Dreams Game in Dyersville, Iowa, scheduled for Aug. 12. The “Field of Dreams” movie, which starred Dwier Brown as John Kinsella, the father of Kevin Costner's character, Ray Kinsella, was filmed in Dyersville. “’Field of Dreams’ is a must-watch movie for baseball fans everywhere, and it’s an important part of Iowa history,” said Tina Potthoff, senior vice president of communications at Hy-Vee. “Hy-Vee is excited to be part of this celebration with Dwier Brown and share the Field of Dreams Corn Flakes with our customers across the Midwest.” A portion of each cereal box sold will benefit Comfort Zone Camp, a nonprofit bereavement organization to help children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. Comfort Zone Camp was founded in 1988 and has served more than 20,000 children since its inception. Comfort Zone continues to empower children experiencing grief to realize their capacity to heal, grow and lead more fulfilling lives. “’Field of Dreams’ has not only changed my life, but has impacted the lives of so many others,” said Brown. “Over the years, I’ve been fortunate and humbled to hear the stories of loved ones lost and how something as simple as a movie has rekindled memories and joy. "Our philanthropic partner, Comfort Zone Camp, works with children who have experienced devastating loss to rebuild trust and hope," he said. " Much like the movie, Comfort Zone Camp brings joy to replace pain, and I’m thrilled to be able to support them with this program.” Brown will be in Iowa for the Field of Dreams Game on Aug. 12. Brown will sign autographs at the Dodge Street Hy-Vee in Dubuque from 5-6 p.m. on Aug. 9. On Aug. 10, he also will make appearances at the Cedar Falls Hy-Vee from noon-1 p.m. and the Dyersville Dollar Fresh from 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Rock Island and Scott counties reach "substantial" COVID-19 levels

Health officials from both counties confirmed that significant increases in COVID-19 cases over the past week have raised the threat level.

CDC: Quad-Cities has 'substantial' spread of COVID-19

Quad-Citians should mask up when they are in indoor public spaces, vaccinated or not, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends.

Scott, Rock Island Counties at ‘Substantial’ threat level of Covid-19 transmission

Both counties are have had a 7-day positivity rate over 6.8% over the past week.

How Illinois hopes to avoid summer eviction surge

A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire Saturday, after the Biden administration extended the original date by a month. The moratorium put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent. Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access nearly $47 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses. Advocates for tenants said the distribution of the money had been slow and that more time was needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to oust tenants who were behind on their rents. Even with the delay, roughly 3.6 million people in the U.S. as of July 5 said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households. Here's the situation in Illinois: WHAT'S THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE? The state's own moratorium on evictions will expire at the end of August, more than 17 months after Governor J.B. Pritzker issued it. Eviction filings can resume at the start of the month, but enforcement can't resume until September.  Pritzker extended the order several times during the pandemic. After landlords of small properties complained that it was hurting them financially, the Democrat modified his order in November to require tenants to vouch that they met certain conditions. WHAT'S BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?  The state expects to provide $1.1 billion in relief to renters and landlords, plus $400 million that will be available in some cities. Pritzker's office estimated that the money could help more than 120,000 people. Individuals can apply for up to $25,000 that would be paid directly to landlords. A separate $280 million program focuses on utility costs.  According to the Illinois Housing Development Authority, the agency has received nearly 95,000 applications for rent assistance seeking a total of more than $900 million. As of Wednesday, it had paid roughly $180 million to 20,480 households, prioritizing people who were unemployed or had very low incomes.  A state law created this year also seals the records of any evictions between March 2020 and March 2022, aiming to prevent pandemic-related financial woes from deepening a renter's ability to get future housing.  Teri Ross, executive director of Illinois Legal Aid Online, also encouraged people who are behind in their rent payments to contact community groups that have received money from federal relief packages to offer aid or legal services. HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS? It varied in recent months based on the renter's location. Ross said counties in the Chicago area have not allowed landlords to file lawsuits seeking to boot tenants for being late on their rent.  Elsewhere, counties that did accept eviction filings largely didn't act on them. Eviction orders entered before the pandemic began and those based on health and safety concerns were allowed to proceed.  In September, all Illinois courts can resume eviction proceedings and enforcement.  The Illinois Housing Development Authority is providing training on rent relief and other assistance to judges around the state. The agency's director, Kristin Faust, said the goal is to encourage landlords and tenants to enter mediation rather than move toward eviction.  Housing advocates said some counties already have embraced that approach and hope it will help some renters stay in their homes while giving their landlords financial relief. But they still expect a flood of people to be evicted from rental homes this fall.  HOW AFFORDABLE IS HOUSING IN THE STATE'S MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS? As of May, the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the Chicago area was 2.7% higher than the year before, at $1,900, according to a June 16 report from Realtor.com. That was higher than the national median cost of $1,770. The median cost of studio and one-bedroom units in the Chicago area dropped during the past year but still topped the nationwide median cost. The median rent of a Chicago one-bedroom was $1,650, compared to the national figure of $1,466. A Chicago-area studio apartment, meanwhile, cost $1,345 per month, compared to $1,294 nationally.  Those prices are far out of reach for many renters in the city and surrounding suburbs, said Karla Chrobak, a supervising attorney with CARPLS Legal Aid, an organization that provides free legal help in Cook County.  Chrobak said clients seeking the group's help already struggled to find affordable housing before the pandemic, making the prospect of being evicted now "terrifying." ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS? Ross said community organizations around the state "are in fear of seeing mass evictions."  "I hope that we see communities working together, landlords and tenants," she said. "Keeping communities stable is largely dependent on keeping people housed consistently — not precariously." One indication of the scope of the problem is recent census data showing that 109,211 Illinois residents were concerned they could be evicted within the next two months. Faust, director of the state agency managing rent relief, hopes shared efforts to keep tenants in their homes will help Illinois avoid mass evictions. "We're going through a shared trauma here and we're going to deal with it together and we're going to address it together," she said. 

Jackson County fair brings economic boost to area

County fairs are making a come back and this week, the Jackson County Fair has been ongoing. The fair is a way for families and friends to spend time together, but it can be so much more than that. It's an economic boost not just for Maquoketa, but also for local restaurants and businesses throughout Jackson County. "Especially this year we're finding more and more people because they were cooped up all last year are wanting to get out and about and this is the place to come not only just this week for the fair, we've seen a big upsurge in tourism in Jackson County all spring long," said Tom Devine, Jackson County director of tourism.

Local kids donate lemonade stand money to QC Animal Welfare Center

Carter, Natalie and Jade were able to raise $1,330 in donations.

Iowa governor: No plans to offer $100 vaccine incentives

An aide says Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has no plans to offer $100 incentives to Iowans to get the coronavirus vaccine after President Joe Biden pleaded with states and local governments to offer incentives using federal funds to stop the rapid spread of a virus variant. While many states and some Iowa counties have offered incentives for citizens to get a COVID-19 vaccination, Iowa's governor continues to call for citizens to get vaccinated but repeat that ultimately it's their choice. Iowa had 49.5% of the population fully immunized as of Thursday, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

Davenport Southeast Little League All-Stars clinch Iowa State Championship, advance to play for a spot in Little Leauge World Series

The Quad City Area has not had a team qualify for a Regional tournament since Rock Falls in 2011.

Reynolds rejects Biden’s call for $100 vaccine incentives

Iowa had 49.5% of the population fully immunized as of Thursday, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

Rock Island County at 'substantial level' of COVID-19 community transmission

Due to a 46.94% increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases over the last seven days, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now reports Rock Island County as having a substantial level of transmission of coronavirus that causes the COVID-19 disease. The county’s positivity rate also increased 2.59% to 6.82% over the last seven days. The number of hospital admissions also increased 50%. The CDC determines the level of transmission by a total new cases per 100,000 people in the past seven days (Rock Island County = 50.75/100,000) and percentage of positive diagnostic and screening tests during the last seven days (Rock Island County = 6.82%). The CDC’s updated mask guidance recommends that masks be worn in indoor public spaces (regardless of vaccination status) for anyone living in counties with substantial or high levels of community transmission. Scott County, Iowa, also moved into the substantial level of community transmission on Friday. The level of community transmission for any community could fluctuate. Vaccination, universal indoor masking, frequent handwashing, and social and physical distancing in indoor public spaces remain our defense against further spread of the virus. By far, the best tool we have in this fight is vaccinating those age 12 and older. You can find your shot at vaccines.gov. The health department also offers walk-in vaccines on Tuesdays (Moderna and Johnson & Johnson for ages 18 and older) and Fridays (Pfizer for ages 12 and older). The hours for both days are 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m. The Rock Island County Health Department will update levels of transmissions as warranted. Updates can be found at any time by visiting the CDC’s Data Tracker website at https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view.

Mercer County woman charged in Moline hit and run

Police said the driver involved in the crash left the scene, but was later connected to it partly due to the damage on her truck.

Scott County at 'substantial level' of COVID-19 community transmission

The seven day positivity rate for COVID-19 in Scott County is on the rise. So much so, that the CDC now reports Scott County to be in the substantial level of transmission. The CDC uses a combination of total new cases per 100,000 persons in the past seven days and percentage of positive diagnostic and screening tests over the last seven days to make that designation. Scott County is at 29/100,000 and 8.78 percent in those metrics respectively. Those numbers will change from time to time. The CDC recommends that masks be worn by everyone, vaccinated and unvaccinated, in all indoor public spaces in communities with substantial or high transmission levels. The best way to protect yourself against the virus is to get vaccinated. The Scott County health department will update the transmission level every week. Updates can be found at any time on the CDC website.

Davenport Hosting Movies On The Mississippi

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Woman arrested and charged in Moline hit-and-run incident

The July 25th accident left a motorcyclist hospitalized with serious injuries.

Silvis man gets federal sentence for attempted enticement of a minor

Michael McKinney was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison after he tried to meet with an 11-year-old for sexual acts.

Woman charged with 2 felonies after hit-and-run crash involving motorcycle

A woman was arrested and charged in connection with Sunday's hit-and-run crash involving a motorcycle, the Moline Police Department announced Friday. Lily M. Stratton, 47, of New Windsor has been charged with two felonies. Officers from the Moline Police Department responded to the 3800 Block of John Deere Road around 3:31 a.m. after a report of a hit-and-run crash with injuries involving a motorcyclist. Police say they located a 48-year-old man in the roadway suffering from major injuries after his motorcycle was hit by a pickup truck. Witnesses at the scene described the suspect vehicle as a white Dodge Ram pickup and the suspect driver to be a woman. The victim was transported to the hospital where he was treated for serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Department made contact with Stratton and located her 2013 white Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck, which had damage consistent with a motor vehicle crash. Mercer County notified Moline Police of their related investigation and Stratton was arrested and charged by the Rock Island County State's Attorney’s Office with failure to report an accident with injuries, a Class2 felony, and aggravated DUI/accident/bodily injuries, a Class 4 felony. Stratton is currently out on bond. Anyone with information on this crash is encouraged to contact the Moline Police Department’s Traffic Investigations Division at 309-524-2214, Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities at 309-762-9500 or the free anonymous reporting mobile app P3 Tips. The Moline Police Department was assisted by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Rock Island County States Attorney’s Office and the Moline Fire Department.

Police: Suspect burglarized gas station, then broke into Subway

A 25-year-old Davenport man has been released on his own recognizance Friday after police say he burglarized a gas station and later broke into a Subway restaurant. Matthew Rowe faces two felony charges of third-degree burglary, two misdemeanor charge of fourth-degree criminal mischief and a misdemeanor charge of fifth-degree theft. Shortly before 1:45 a.m. Wednesday, police say, Davenport Police responded to Subway, 7551 W. 76th St., Davenport, in response to a burglary, an arrest affidavit says. Surveillance video shows Rowe enter the business to commit a theft, police say. After he was read his Miranda Rights, Rowe admitted he entered the business. Police say Rowe shattered the window of a glass door with a hammer to enter the building. The estimate to replace the door is $450. Prior incident Before that, shortly after 1:15 a.m. Wednesday, Davenport Police responded to a report of a burglary at the Gas Depot, 3108 W. Central Park Ave., Davenport. Officers, who saw the front door was smashed open, cleared the building and did not find any suspects at the time.The business owner arrived and let officers review security footage. At around 1:18 a.m., the video shows Rowe arrive with another suspect, who used a hammer to smash the window and kick it to make an opening, an arrest affidavit says. Video shows Rowe crawl through the shattered door and go inside the closed business. In the video, Rowe runs toward the back of the front counter and grabs the cash drawer. He takes the drawer off the counter and forcefully detaches it from all the cables, police say. Rowe runs out of the business with the cash drawer, valued at less than $300. The cost to repair the glass door is estimated to be between $300 and $750. In the video, Rowe wore a gray-and-black jacket, light-blue jeans, yellow boots, and a dark-colored half mask that covered the lower half of his face. His hair also is shown on video during the incident, police say. On Friday, officers conducted an investigation and determined Rowe was a suspect, an arrest affidavit says. Officers found Rowe at his residence. He wore the same jeans he wore during the burglary. After he was read his Miranda Rights, Rowe admitted the jacket inside the residence was the jacket he wore during in the burglary. Rowe admitted he went into the business and took the cash drawer, and also admitted he drove away from the scene.

Police investigate report of gunfire early Friday

Police were on the scene for a report of gunfire just after midnight Friday near the corner of 9th Avenue and 8th Street in Rock Island.  Our Local 4 News crew, the only station at the scene, saw police examine a car and a house. They also searched the driveway of a house across the street. Local 4 News and www.ourquadcities.com will provide updates when they become available.

Officials push vaccinations as COVID-19 variants are in Muscatine County

Officials say this may occur as the variant is passed from person to person more easily.

Fired Iowa Veterans Home leader kept excess pay, audit finds

Iowa governor spokesman says state officials are working to recover any overpayments that Iowa Veterans Home Commandant Timon Oujiri received during his tenure.

East Moline man drowns while working in Iowa farm tank

54-year-old Robert Baenziger Jr. died on June 8 while making repairs in an anaerobic digester, a tank that uses manure, food waste and water to create methane.

Quad Cities Community Foundation President and CEO Sherry Ristau stepping down

After seven years leading the Quad Cities Community Foundation, President and CEO Sherry Ristau will step down from her position at the end of August. “I am deeply grateful for all the relationships and opportunities this community has provided me since arriving in the Quad Cities,” said Ristau. “With the board of directors, we have spent the last seven years in pursuit of a new mission to transform the region through the generosity of donors, and I believe wholeheartedly that we have moved the organization to meet that mission for the benefit of our community. Now is the time to welcome an even greater transformational leader into our work.” A search for the next president and CEO will be led by Randy Moore, chairperson of the board of directors, and the board, which is made up of community members. Moore will serve as president and CEO until a successor is named. “Sherry has hired and led a high-performing team of professionals who love their work, love their community, and are quite frankly, whip-smart. We are positioned so well to take this work to the next level,” Moore said. “I’m looking forward to working more closely with the team in the months ahead. Under Sherry’s thoughtful leadership, the Community Foundation has grown in donor contributions, grants awarded out into the community, and regional reputation and awareness.” Since arriving September 2014, Ristau guided a renaming and rebranding from the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend to the Quad Cities Community Foundation while charitable assets grew from $112 million to $182.5 million. Over the past two years, Ristau and her team launched back-to-back Quad Cities Disaster Recovery Funds to support recovery from the historic Mississippi River flood of 2019 and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, leading to more than $2 million in support raised and granted out to support relief and recovery efforts. “I’m very proud of all that has been accomplished,” Ristau said. “What I hope our staff and board -- and our donors, volunteers, and community -- know is that these are not my accomplishments. They are all of ours. Our work isn’t possible without this community. And I know that this organization will continue to flourish as it ensures that generosity always lives here in the Quad Cities region.”

Destination Illinois: Whitey's Ice Cream

When you think of hot summer days, you might also think of ice cream. One ice cream store has been going strong for almost 90 years in the Quad Cities. Whitey's Ice Cream has seen a lot of growth from its humble beginnings in 1933. It started with a dairy worker named Chester Lindgren. "He did not like his first name and he had white-blonde hair, so he always went by 'Whitey,'" says Annika Tunberg, Whitey's Ice Cream Vice President. From Whitey's first store on the corner of 23rd avenue and 16th street in Moline, to the now eight that await eager customers all around the Quad Cities, Tunberg says not much has changed in the way Whitey's Ice Cream is made. "We make ice cream like we like to eat it," Tunberg says. "We don't cut corners to save on cost, or whatever the case may be because we want it to be the best experience possible. The ice cream you ate back in the day is probably the same quality ice cream you're going to get today." Whitey's Ice Cream has gotten its share of recognition over the years, including an award for Best in the Midwest from the Midwest Living Magazine. Although lots of people enjoy Whitey's in the summer, the ice cream shops are open all year long. You can learn more about the history of the shop on its website.

John Deere Davenport Works to be featured on History Channel’s ‘Modern Marvels’ Sunday

The show features the history, innovation, and technological advances of a broad range of machines.

Armored vehicle responds to incident in west Davenport

Police said they were responding to a call when they had an encounter with someone who was armed.

Linda Cook review: 'Jungle Cruise' is worth the trip

What a nice surprise! Yes, “Jungle Cruise” is indeed a marketing gimmick for a Disney theme-park ride, just as “Pirates of the Caribbean” was. Still, it has enough old-school Disney charm, color, action and romance to stand solidly on its own as the newest summer hit … and possibly a franchise. Emily Blunt “(Mary Poppins Returns”) stars as explorer Liily Houghton, who wants to find a legendary flower with healing powers. She has swiped an artifact that could lead her on her quest in the Amazon jungle. She and her brother MacGregor (Jack Whitehall, “Bad Education”) take off in search of a captain to guide them through the jungle, and they happen upon Frank (Dwayne Johnson), a kinda/sorta shyster who thinks this might a way for him to make money. But Prince Joachim (Jesse Plemons, “Breaking Bad”) and his submarine crew also want the flower, and they will stop at nothing to get it. Frank’s fakery, along with his penchant for groan-inducing puns, are among the movie’s highlights. Blunt’s fearless determination – and yes, there are a couple of scenes with Poppins-esque dialogue – is engaging. Plus she and Johnson share a terrific chemistry. The look of the movie is great fun, too. Fish leap about, monkeys escape, colorful birds take wing … there is a lot of action and something eye-catching in every corner of each frame. It’s not perfect. There’s a scene in which a scorpion seems to vanish into thin air, and a blurry part of the legend doesn’t always make sense. Still, this is good popcorn fun that will appeal to people of all ages who enjoy Disney movies. It’s certainly worth a cruise to the theater, where it’s bound to make a huge box-office splash this weekend. 3 stars Running time: Two hours and seven minutes. Rated: PG-13 for coarse humor and cartoonish violence. In theaters and available for Premium purchase on Disney+

Construction is believed to have started fire at Geneseo family's home

Flames leaked out the roof of a Geneseo home after a fire broke out Wednesday evening.

Four people shot near Davenport's W. Locust Street

Police responded to several reports of shots fired at 9:15 p.m. on Thursday night. When they arrived on scene, they found four gunshot victims.

MetroLINK waives fare for students heading to and from school

The program is available to all K-12 students riding Metro routes to and from school, regardless of income.

Rick's Six: 4 wounded in Davenport shooting, western wildfires affecting Q-C air quality, and renters details landlord neglect

4 People in Serious Condition after Shooting in Davenport

Davenport Police say the shooting happened after a fight broke out between two vehicles

"I just told him to hold on" | Four people shot near Davenport's W Locust St

Police responded to multiple reports of shots fired at 9:15 p.m. on Thursday night. When they arrived on scene, they found four gunshot victims.

Beyond the Baseline to hold free volleyball clinic for youth; former Clinton star Monique Harris hopes her story will inspire others to take part

Growing up in Iowa, former Clinton Volleyball star Monique Harris was often the only black player on her team, or one of very few.

Quad City Area leaders hold grand opening for Bend XPO in East Moline

This is the latest addition to The Bend complex. Organizers say the event center will be able to hold up to 10,000 people.

Housing prices hit 15 year high

Quad Cities realtors say the local housing market inventory is at a 16-year low, while prices are at a 15-year high.

Grand opening held for Bend XPO in East Moline

The roughly $10 million facility will be able to hold up to 10,000 people.

Luka Garza drafted by Detroit Pistons with 52nd overall pick

The Detroit Pistons selected Luka Garza with the 52nd overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft Thursday. Garza became the 2nd former Iowa star to be taken in this year’s draft after the San Antonio Spurs selected Joe Wieskamp with the 41st overall pick.

Joe Wieskamp drafted by San Antonio Spurs with 41st overall pick

Former Iowa Hawkeye Joe Wieskamp was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs as pick #41 in the second round of the NBA Draft on Thursday night

Former Rock Island insurance building to house federal courthouse

Once complete, the building will house three government offices, including the United States District Court for Illinoi's Central District.

3 injured, car damaged, after gunfire late Thursday

Davenport Police confirmed three people suffered non-life-threatening injuries after a report of gunfire about 9:15 p.m. Thursday in the area of West Locust and Howell streets, just west of the Five Points Wellness Center. Police also found a car damaged by gunfire on the 1700 block of Pacific Street, where blood was splattered on the pavement and crime-scene tape secured the immediate area. Chief Paul Sikorski was among officers who examined the vehicle, a small blue Honda. Photo by Mike Colón Scott County Deputies also were at the scene, where law enforcement talked with neighbors and retrieved at least 10 shell casings. Officers searched for possible evidence in a nearby ravine. Two blocks of West Locust Street were closed for hours during the investigation. We do not know the extent of injuries or whether anyone has been arrested. Local 4 News and www.ourquadcities.com will provide updates when they become available. Multiple police officers are in the area of the 1700 block of Wilkes, Davenport, after a report of gunfire. pic.twitter.com/GBEoXub40R— Linda Cook, reporter, film critic. (@CookWHBF) July 30, 2021 Multiple police officers are in the area of the 1700 block of Wilkes, Davenport, after a report of gunfire. pic.twitter.com/HhehxTMHP0— Linda Cook, reporter, film critic. (@CookWHBF) July 30, 2021

Former Rock Island insurance building to house federal courthouse

Once complete, the building will house three government offices, including the United States District Court for Illinoi's Central District.

Man discovers bobcat on Rock Island trail

The 83-year-old Rock Island man captures the bobcat lingering five minutes behind him.

Lottery numbers drawn Thursday

ILLINOIS LOTTERY

Heavy police presence blocks off portion of Locust St. in Davenport

Investigator blocked off a portion of Locust Street in Davenport Thursday night.

Quad Cities Community Foundation president and CEO to step down at the end of August

A nationwide search will begin immediately for the next president and CEO, according to the release.

Bobcat discovered on Rock Island trail

83-year-old Rock Island man discovers bobcat using trail camera.

DeWitt is getting ready for RAGBRAI

RAGBRAI is making it's way to DeWitt, the 7 day ride crosses through the state of Iowa. This is the first time DeWitt will be hosting the riders over night. They have not had the ride go through the city since 1994. Tonya Rheingans is the owner of Sophie Luroo which opened it's doors last year during the pandemic Rheingans said this ride will help many small businesses. "It's a very small town and this gives us a chance to put DeWitt on the map so everyone else can see what we have to offer too, we have so many cute buisnesses," said Rheingans. Molly Goettsch is one of the organizers and said they're still in need of volunteers for Friday and Saturday. "The biggest places we're going to need volunteers are the campgrounds we have about 3 or 4 different around town that will need kinda people directing people where to do and that kind of thing," said Goettsch. The riders will leave DeWitt Saturday morning and make their way to Clinton.

Davenport riverfront construction allows for more visiting cruise lines

Two ships are docking Friday, July 30 and Saturday, July 31 at the new spot at River Heritage Park.

Car break-ins on the rise in towns outside the Quad Cities

It's not just happening in the Quad Cities - small communities outside of the cities have been dealing with car thefts and break-ins as well. One town hit particularly hard has been Colona, Illinois. Colona Police said today they have responded to four car thefts and 34 trespassing and car break-in situations this year, and those numbers are still on the rise. One family in Colona recently witnessed an attempted car theft happening right across the street from their house, and immediately called 911 and scared off the thieves. However, despite scaring them off that day, the family and other residents of Colona are still very much on edge. "Supposed to, you know, feel safe in this small, somewhat gated community, you know there's one way in and one way out," said Jamie Hudson, a Colona resident

Dewitt businesses prep for 20,000 people to take over the town for RAGBRAI

The town will quadruple in size while riders in town Friday

Davenport riverfront construction allows for more visiting cruise lines

Two ships are docking Friday, July 30 and Saturday, July 31 at the new spot at River Heritage Park.

Backpack give-a-way happening in Rock Island

Lonnie Ray's Academy in Rock Island is holding a backpack give-a-way for families just before the start of school. It's happening Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at 815 9th Street in Rock Island. This comes as families are planning to spend an average of $850 on back to school shopping this year. That's according to MarketWatch. It's up $59 from last year. The backpacks include school supplies such as notebooks, pencils and pens. They also have hygiene products such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, and soap.

New federal courthouse coming to Rock Island

Rock Island Investors, Inc. announced Thursday that it has been awarded the Rock Island Federal Courthouse project by the General Services Administration. A new 53,356 square foot federal facility will be constructed at 320 18th Street in Rock Island, where the former Bituminous building now stands. The three-story building will have multiple government tenants, including the United States District Court (Central District of Illinois). The project is expected to break ground in fall 2021. The GSA is expected to occupy the building in late 2022 or early 2023. Russell Construction will provide general contracting services and the Shive-Hattery Institutional Team will serve as its architectural partner. This project will be owned and developed by Rock Island Investors, Inc., a special purpose entity that is 50% owned by Russell Government Group, LLC, 30% by Fishman Family Properties LLC and 20% by Jeff Eirinberg. This joint venture team has participated in the GSA search and solicitation process since 2018.

Bix Jazz Festival celebrates 50th anniversary

The month of Bix events means we'll experience some smooth tunes. It's the big 50th anniversary of the Bix Jazz Festival. Organizer Steve Trainor joined Local 4 News at 4 to tell us all about it. Watch the video above for the full conversation and go to BixSociety.org for more information.

Director of Public Health warns about COVID-19 variants, urges vaccinations

"The COVID-19 variants are in Muscatine County. Those unvaccinated are urged to get the vaccine to stop the rise in COVID numbers." That's the how a news release from Christy Roby Williams, Director of Muscatine Public Health starts out. “COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the variants that are currently in circulation,” WIlliams says in the release. “So all eligible people are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.” "The best way to stop the spread of all COVID-19 virus strains, including the Delta variant, is for unvaccinated people to become fully vaccinated. Getting vaccinated protects against the current virus strains and decreases the chances of a vaccine-resistant variant developing in the future." Here's the rest of the text from the news release: COVID-19 VARIANTS ARE IN MUSCATINE COUNTY Those unvaccinated urged to get vaccine to stop rise in COVID numbers MUSCATINE, Iowa – The best way to stop the spread of all COVID-19 virus strains, including the Delta variant, is for unvaccinated people to become fully vaccinated according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Muscatine County Public Health. Viruses constantly change when they spread from person-to-person and new strains of a virus (called variants) are expected to occur. Many COVID-19 variants have been found in the United States and globally during this pandemic. Some are found and quickly disappear. Other times, new variants stick around and spread. This may occur because the variant is passed from person-to-person more easily, resistant to existing treatments, or resistant to existing vaccines. “COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the variants that are currently in circulation,” Christy Roby Williams, Director of Muscatine Public Health, said. “So all eligible people are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.” The Delta variant (B.1.617.2) is currently the most common COVID-19 virus strain circulating around in the United States, the region, in Iowa, and in Muscatine County. The variant was originally found in India in December 2020, and became visible in the United States during March 2021. The Delta variant spreads more easily than other variants which is why COVID-19 cases are increasing in the US and in Iowa. The CDC indicates the currently available vaccines are effective against the Delta variant. For those who get an mRNA vaccine, the second dose of vaccine provides a higher level of protection. Because of this, it is important for people get both doses once beginning this series of vaccines. According to the CDC, if you received the J&J vaccine it is not required for you to receive any additional vaccines. People who have not been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are most at risk of contracting, being hospitalized for, and potentially dying from COVID-19 according to national and state statistics. The best way to stop the spread of all COVID-19 virus strains, including the Delta variant, is for unvaccinated people to become fully vaccinated. Getting vaccinated protects against the current virus strains and decreases the chances of a vaccine-resistant variant developing in the future. If the COVID-19 virus strains continue to spread from person-to-person, new variants will continue to occur. COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the variants that are currently circulating, so all eligible people are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. To maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading the virus to others, the CDC urges even those fully vaccinated to wear a mask in indoor public spaces if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission. Muscatine County is considered a high transmission county. https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view. The CDC considers a county to have a high transmission if there have been 100 or more cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents or a test positivity rate of 10 percent or higher in the past seven days. Visit https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/ for additional information. “We urge everyone in Muscatine County to please consider masking up in public indoor locations to increase mitigation efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our county while protecting our most vulnerable populations,” Roby Williams said. For information and updates related to COVID-19, visit Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC. VACCINATION CLINIC AT MUSCATINE AQUATIC CENTER A COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be offered from 1-3 p.m. Saturday (July 31) in the Community Room at the Muscatine Aquatic Center in Weed Park. Volunteers from the United Way of Muscatine will be assisting Muscatine County Public Health staff to help the clinic run smoothly. Vaccines are free and anyone can walk-in to receive a vaccination. Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson will all be available at the clinic. Insurance is not needed but please bring your identification (ID) with you. Minors (ages 12-17) must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. WALK IN CLINIC AVAILABLE Muscatine County Public Health, 1609 Cedar Street, Muscatine, offers a walk-in vaccination clinic every Wednesday and Friday. No appointment is needed, no insurance is required, and there is no cost. For more information, contact Muscatine County Public Health at (563) 263-0122. Muscatine County Public Health is open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Prescription drug prices continue to rise despite accessibility efforts

Insulin and prescription drug prices are higher than ever before. More and more families struggle each day to afford these life-saving medicines. This July, President Joe Biden issued an executive order aiming to reduce prescription drug prices. Additionally, Illinois is one of just 8 states that has implemented caps on insulin prices. However, many still cannot afford the costly drug. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 1 in 4 patients with Type 1 Diabetes has resorted to rationing their insulin supply for financial purposes -- in order to preserve it. This practice can be very dangerous and even life threatening, because patients are deliberately receiving less insulin than what they were prescribed. Some young people may not be worried about paying these high prices right now, but as they look to the future, many brace themselves for when they will be on their own in a world where the price only continues to go up. "I hear about prices I start thinking oh what am I gonna do when I'm off it when I have my own career? Will this be a problem for me? Just me having to think about the future when it's something you shouldn't have to think about." explains fifteen-year old Morgan Quaranta. Morgan was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when she was 5 years old. She's now an advocate for others who require the drug to stay alive. She wants to serve as a voice for the community and fight for accessibility for those who are less fortunate.

CRIME STOPPERS: Man threatened Metrolink driver while holding a knife in Rock Island

Officials say the suspect then damaged property on the bus using the knife he was brandishing.

CRIME STOPPERS: Suspect wanted after car is burglarized in Rock Island

On July 15, just after 3:30 p.m., police say the man above burglarized a vehicle in the Two Rivers Point area.

CRIME STOPPERS: Woman wanted on possession of heroin charges out of Bettendorf

Officials say she is wanted out of Bettendorf, Iowa on possession with intent to deliver heroin charges.

Sherry Ristau to leave Quad Cities Community Foundation

Sherry Ristau is stepping down as president and CEO of the Quad-Cities Community Foundation at the end of August.

NTSB releases preliminary report following fatal plane crash in Muscatine

Officials with the National Transportation Safety Board have released its aviation accident preliminary report following a fatal plane crash in Muscatine.

UnityPoint Health - Trinity launches website to help with community needs

Your car breaks down and you can’t afford to pay for the repair costs. Where do you turn?

'It’s going to be surreal': Transformed Luka Garza hopeful going into draft day

It’s been a busy summer for former Iowa center Luka Garza. That might be a bit of an understatement though, as he’s spent months getting ready for what he hopes will be the biggest moment of his basketball career.   “The biggest thing for me at the beginning of this process was to transition and transform my body and kind of redefine who I am in terms of what I was doing in college, as opposed to what I’m going to be doing in the NBA,” Garza said. Aside from the whole NBA thing, it’s nothing new for the 2021 Naismith Award winner. “It was very similar to years past when I’ve made big transformations in summers,” Garza said. So, what does that look like? Well, he’s transformed his body by losing 27 pounds. “I changed my diet completely, I became flexitarian,” Garza said. “No carbs, no pasta, no bread.” He’s also changing his game, working to expand his shooting range in order to fit today’s NBA. “I know I’m not going to be posting up as much in the NBA, so I’m transitioning into being a stretch five guy,” Garza said. “My shot’s the best it’s ever been and I’m coming off a year where I shot 44 percent from three.” You don’t just have to take his word for it though. His father Frank, has posted numerous videos of his son on Twitter, working on that shot over the past couple months. Seldom will you find a miss. “The biggest thing is to show I’m good enough at that to be a big part of my game, the main part of my game,” Garza said. “I can play in an offense without a post-up, I don’t have to be on the block.” Dear #NBA, Luka's 3 ball % most will never reach; his current ceiling is 55+% 🦚 @PelicansNBA @DetroitPistons@SacramentoKings @LAClippers @Bucks @BrooklynNets @nyknicks @hornets @Timberwolves @Lakers @okcthunder @trailblazers @chicagobulls @ATLHawks @sixers @spur @Suns @nuggets pic.twitter.com/xiLvcSHzEB— Frank Garza (@frankgarza57) July 17, 2021 His dad did a lot more than tweet, though. A former college basketball player himself, he’s has been there for his son every step of the way. “Since teaching me the game, working with me every step of the way, continuing to work with me through this point,” Garza said. “There’s not many people who thought I’d be sitting here in this position and he’s one of them.” He’s gotten to showcase all of the progress he’s made this summer during the NBA combine and workouts with twelve different NBA teams. The most recent being with the Boston Celtics. “I think I’ve helped myself in every workout I’ve been a part of and that was the goal,” Garza said. He even got to share the court with an old pal in Joe Wieskamp during a workout with Detroit. “We were on opposing teams, which sucked,” said Garza on having to play his old teammate. Garza claims each of their teams won a game during that matchup. Throughout the rest of the pre-draft process, however, they’ve been able to lean on each other. “It’s been great to have someone going through it with you,” Garza said of Wieskamp. “We’ve been communicating a lot.” The hard work culminates with the NBA Draft on Thursday night. All Garza has left to do now is wait. “I did everything I could during this process,” Garza said. “I didn’t leave anything out on the court during any of these workouts. I played as hard as I could, worked as hard as I could and went as hard as I could.” He’s one of the most decorated players in college basketball history. But if -- he always says when -- the moment comes where his name is called, it will be one of his best. “It’s going to be surreal,” Garza said. And it won’t just be about him. “Everybody at some point has had a positive effect on me,” Garza said. “Really, it takes a village and I’ve had a great village.” Garza is projected by many experts to go in the second round. To him though, it doesn’t matter when or where he goes. All he wants is the opportunity. “I think I’m a guy that’s going to be able to help an organization some way,” Garza said. “And whatever way that is, I’m going to do it and do it to the best of my ability.” The NBA Draft starts Thursday at 7 p.m. Luka Garza on what the past few months have been like as he prepares to enter the NBA. He’s adapting his game to fit the modern pro-style of basketball. The 2021 NBA Draft starts tonight at 7PM CT. pic.twitter.com/GEQYqH9Fib— Jarek Andrzejewski (@Local4Jarek) July 29, 2021 Luka Garza attended 12 workouts with NBA teams over the last month or so leading up to tonight’s NBA Draft. The list of teams along with their upcoming picks: pic.twitter.com/R60BcQZ7CF— Jarek Andrzejewski (@Local4Jarek) July 29, 2021 Luka Garza says he & Joe Wieskamp have been talking a lot through this draft process. They’re excited for each other. “It’s been a pleasure to play with him. Maybe, a couple of these teams have a couple picks in the 2nd round and they’ll go for the Iowa connection. We’ll see.”— Jarek Andrzejewski (@Local4Jarek) July 29, 2021 Luka also mentioned he and Joe were both at the Detroit workout together. They were on opposing teams and each one a game against each other. He says he might be a little biased, but he’s confident he and Joe performed the best in that workout. https://t.co/XFtxsoYvAV— Jarek Andrzejewski (@Local4Jarek) July 29, 2021 For more Hawkeye coverage, follow @HawkeyeHQ on Twitter and Facebook.

Maysville Country Garden Walk

The event is being held on August 1st, 2021 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to benefit the Maysville Fire Department.

Preliminary report for plane crash near Muscatine released by NTSB

The preliminary report for a plane crash in Muscatine earlier this month has been released by the NTSB. The bodies of Daniel Slack, 68, and Sharon Slack, 69, both of El Dorado Springs, Missouri, were found in the wreckage west of Iowa Route 38 and north of 170th Street in northern Muscatine County. "A series of course changes along with altitude changes that continued to the end of the flightdata" were observed for the last hour of the flight, according to the report. Air traffic controllers had lost both radio and radar contact with the aircraft in that area. Law enforcement from the Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office and Muscatine Police Department responded to the area. The aircraft was located in a grass/hay field approximately a quarter mile north of 170th Street. The plane was believed to be traveling from Michigan to Missouri when it lost contact with the Quad Cities International Airport, but the report could not confirm the destination since a flight plan was not filed. Here is the full text of the report: On July 14, 2021, at 1238 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28-180, N2801T, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Muscatine, Iowa. The pilot and the passenger were fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight. The pilot held a private pilot certificate for single-engine airplanes and did not have an instrument rating. No flight plan had been filed and the pilot was not in contact with air traffic control. The flight originated from the Ford Airport (IML), Iron Mountain, Michigan, at 0918, and the destination has not been confirmed. A review of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data showed that the airplane departed IML and proceeded on a 210° heading for about 220 nautical miles. The first part of the flight was at an altitude of about 4,500 ft msl. About 1141, the airplane started a series of course changes along with altitude changes that continued to the end of the flight data. At 1238, the airplane was at 2,900 ft on a heading of about 240° when it began a right descending turn. As the turn continued the radius of the turn decreased and the descent rate increased until the last recorded data point at 1238:28.7. The final recorded point indicated that the airplane was heading 165°, and still descending. The final data point was about 200 ft from the initial impact location. The airplane impacted a farm field on a south heading. The airplane fragmented upon impact and was distributed in a fan shaped pattern. The fuselage of the airplane came to rest about 435 ft south of the initial impact point.

Iowa elected officials respond to CDC’s updated mask guidance

Governor Kim Reynolds fielded questions about the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s change of course regarding mask guidance during a press conference on Wednesday.

Car hits pole in two vehicle accident

A sedan hit a pole in Davenport in two vehicle accident Thursday afternoon. That sustained significant damage to the front end. Police responded to the crash at the intersection of East Locust Street and Iowa Street around 2 p.m. Police initially couldn't find the second vehicle. It was found nearby. There were no injuries. This is a developing story. Stay tuned to Local 4 News, Fox 18 News and OurQuadCities.com for updates. Got a news tip? Forward it to Local 4 on Twitter or Facebook or download our app on your iPhone or Android phone. 

CRIME STOPPERS: Man wanted out of Scott County on original charges of stalking

He is described as being 5′11 and weighing 220 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes.

MetroLINK waives bus fare for Moline and Rock Island-Milan students during fall semester

The program is available to all K-12 students riding Metro routes to and from school, regardless of income.

Pay It Forward: Galesburg woman offers free meals, serving first responders

Shirley Chu has provided thousands of meals for area first responders and hospital workers on a weekly basis at Tres Café in Galesburg.

Pay It Forward: Galeburg woman giving back with free meal program

Shirley Chu has provided thousands of meals for area first responders and hospital workers on a weekly basis at Tres Café in Galesburg.

Western Iowa doctor announces run for U.S. Senate seat

Dr. Glenn Hurst provides health care in his hometown of Minden, Iowa and oversees clinics in the county.

Multiple fire crews respond to structure fire in Geneseo

Multiple fire crews responded to a call Wednesday of a structure fire with flames visible at 209 West Pearl St., Geneseo.

Niabi Zoo staff keeps animals cool during high humidity

Zoo staff provide extra water, sprinklers, fans and cold foods to help the animals stay cool. The staff plans for the heat months in advance.

Niabi Zoo staff keeps animals cool during high humidity

Zoo staff provide extra water, sprinklers, fans and cold foods to help the animals stay cool. The staff plans for the heat months in advance.

One person hospitalized after apartment fire in Downtown Davenport

The Davenport Fire Department responded to a call at Heritage Apartments around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 28.

Rock Island County Board Member Don Johnston hospitalized

He is in the hospital after suffering a stroke.

Slow down or pay up: In just over four months, nearly 40,000 speeders caught on LeClaire cameras

Since the cameras went live in March, nearly 40,000 fines have been levied totaling $2,749,775.

Rock Island woman says neighboring vacant home is infested with raccoons, seeks city’s help

A group of raccoons are now living in the house and they have since made their way onto her property and into her attic.

What's COMING SOON to the Quad Cities?

JULY 29, 2021: A Unique Pilates Studio, Old Sam's Club Building Update, New Events Center, & the Reboot of A Popular Music Venue

Real Conversations goes ‘Back to School’ with local educators about programs to better serve students

TV6 spoke with 3 Quad City educators on efforts to make education more equitable for children.

Celebration of life for 'Mr. Richmond Hill,' is Saturday

John VanDeWoestyne passed away in 2020 but his family wanted to hold a larger memorial service once COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.

MetroLINK giving students free rides to school

Students can get free rides to and from school on the MetroLINK this upcoming fall semester. Students in the Moline-Coal Valley and Rock Island-Milan school districts rely on Metro’s fixed route and a number of school peak routes. In 2019, there were nearly 2000 trips taken by students each day to and from schools on MetroLINK. The fees are waived for all students regardless of income. "After speaking with the school districts we serve, we felt it was important to offer this program to families as students return to learn this fall,” said Jennifer Hirsch, Manager of Administration, Metro. “Access to transportation can sometimes be a barrier." The program is available on days when there are classes. High school students will need to show an I.D. Elementary and middle school students do not. It's a partnership both parties are excited about. “The Moline-Coal Valley School District partnership with Metro is invaluable and their support for our students and families is an excellent example of how this community comes together when the need arises,” said Dr. Rachel Savage, Superintendent, Moline-Coal Valley School District "Reliable transportation is an important part of every child's education," said Dr. Reginald Lawrence, Superintendent for RIMSD#41. "Thanks to Metro's new initiative, Rock Island-Milan School District families can be assured their children will arrive at school and home safely and at no cost to them." For more information, go to MetroLINK's website or call 309-788-3360.

COMING SOON: New Luxury Townhomes

Silverthorne Homebuilders is putting in this new development on 55th Street, just west of Utica Ridge Road in Davenport

COMING SOON: Restaurant Opening New Location in Iowa

Combine started in East Moline and is now expanding to Davenport

Alzheimer's Association Iowa Walk to End Alzheimer’s event back this year

The fight to help end Alzheimer's is an ongoing one and this fall there are two opportunities to do your part with the 'Walk to End Alzheimer's' event returning this year. The event will kick-off with an opening ceremony which will include the associations signature Promise Garden ceremony to honor loved ones and connection to the cause. The Quad Cities Walk is on October 2 at the TaxSlayer Center, the Clinton Walk is on September 18 at NelsonCorp Field and the Burlington Walk is on October 9 at Westland Mall. Funds raised through the event will be used locally for care and support resources for those living with the disease as well as their families, caregivers and anyone looking for information about the disease. Walk manger of the Alzheimer's Association, Megan Olsen, said the walk will also help host education programs around many topics like the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's, dementia-related behavior, communication strategies and more. "We offer local support groups for caregivers to connect with other caregivers to find support, exchange ideas and solutions to problems they may encounter with their loved one and it helps them feel like they're not alone in their journey," said Olsen. For more information to get started with a local walk go here. You can also reach out to the local Quad Cities office at 563-293-8056.