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

Tuesday, January 28th, 2020
	Rock Island-Milan School District expects enrollment decline over next five years The district's projections are based on birth rate in Rock Island County.
	Lottery for Wednesday ILLINOIS LOTTERY
	Moline High School teaches parents how to outsmart their kids’ smartphones MOLINE, ILLINOIS -- With social media growing in popularity, the Moline - Coal Valley school district wants parents to be able to outsmart their kids' smart phones. It's part of the district's "Parent YOUniversity", where they give parents information to help their child be successful at school and at home. Topics include mental health awareness and resources, family and community resources, school avoidance and truancy support, substance abuse awareness, social media and cyberbullying. "We are really trying to empower parents to be present for their kids and to help them tackle some of today's challenges," Moline Assistant Superintendent Pupil Personnel, Kristin Sanders said. Tonight, parents learned about social media apps and how to find hidden pictures or messages on phones and apps. "The my eyes only," parent Angelica Murillo said. "I had no idea. I have Snapchat, but I had no idea that there was that." "Social media causes additional stresses for students at home and causes additional stresses for us at school," Sanders said. "We see that it has such a huge impact on them. Kids are taking school home with them, because they are always on their phones, so it's 24/7, they never get away from it." Parents also learned about putting parental blocks on cell phones, social media statistics, and when to have the school or police get involved. "I feel better, because now I know what some of these kids now a days are doing," Murillo said. In the second part of the class, parents learned about truancy and how much school can students really miss. The next class for parents will be on April 7th, 2020, at Moline High School.
	Refugee feels welcome after board approves resettlement of refugees into community The Rock Island County Board took a step in favor of refugees last week. They approved a measure that said they would allow for refugees to relocate to their county. Read more about refugee Hanna Niang's story:
	SBRC votes to relieve more than $9 million of Davenport Schools' debt The School Budget Review Committee has approved a motion to relieve more than $9 million of the Davenport Community School District's debt.
	3 people and a dog dead after plane crashes in Illinois SPRINGFIELD, Illinois-- Three people and a dog are dead after a small airplane crashed in Illinois. The twin-engine plane was trying to land at a Springfield airport when it went down. The airport's traffic control tower says the pilot indicated the aircraft was having instrument trouble and difficulty with the weather. The plane departed from Huntsville, Alabama. Federal aviation administration officials rushed to the scene. Two of the victims have been identified. They include Sangamon County Coroner Cinda Edwards and her husband, former Springfield Alderman Frank Edwards.
	Remains of N.C. soldier arrive in the United States The flag-draped coffin of Spc. Antonio Moore, 22, of Wilmington, arrived at Dover Air Force Base overnight.
	1-year-old Chicago toddler shot in parents' gun struggle Police say a 1-year-old boy whose father claimed had been shot in the head by a gunman outside their Chicago home was actually struck by a bullet as his parents struggled over a gun.
	Court delays trial for man charged with killing Iowa student, Mollie Tibbetts A new trial date will be set after the Iowa Supreme Court decides how to handle Rivera's appeal.
	President Trump to hold campaign rally in Des Moines days before Iowa caucuses The president of the United States will be making a campaign stop in Iowa only days before the Republican and Democratic parties hold their caucuses.
	We all could learn something from this 12-year-old's guitar lesson The rousing chorus came from a small room in a small shop.
	River Museum in Dubuque introduces orphaned river otter to resident otter in need of companion The orphaned male was in need of a companion, so when staff found out there was another young orphaned otter in the state, they got to work planning the introduction.
	Des Moines is ready to cash in on the Caucus DES MOINES, Iowa For Des Moines, it's priceless. The Iowa Caucuses brings worldwide attention to Iowa's largest city. It's a chance for the Capitol city to shine. And make money. The hip, downtown Des Moines coffee shop West End Architectural Salvage, is ready to serve up something different for the Iowa Caucuses. Owners say they're prepared for more than 1500 credentialed journalists and hundreds of politicos who haven't been in Iowa for the past four years. "The whole downtown landscape has changed," said co-owner Don Short who also owns the popular Iowa Taproom. Every four years, Des Moines takes center stage in the political world as the Iowa Caucus brings world attention to the state's largest city. "So we are already on track to really great some records when it comes to the number of national and media here in our community for that weekend for that event," said Tiffany Tauscheck of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Des Moines started planning for the caucus almost a year ago, bringing together businesses and community developers. And why not? The tourism folks at Catch Des Moines say the 2020 Caucuses are worth more than $11-million in extra revenue citywide. "It's not just those dollars, it's also those connections and those relationships that we're able to build," explained Tauscheck. Just ask the people at West End Architectural Salvage. NBC News booked the place for its "Meet the Press" and "Today" show broadcasts. And the Iowa Taproom is booked for some 400-NBC staffers for a Super Bowl party. And just hours later, after the big game is finished and the big night of caucusing is over, Don Short knows they'll all be gone. "On Wednesday, when the Super Bowl truck is unloaded and the generators are gone and the cameras are gone, and everybody's gone, and you're just like, 'Huh, that was fun. What's next?'"
	Wildlife officials accuse North Louisiana man of killing bald eagle A North Louisiana man is accused of killing a bald eagle and other wildlife crimes in Claiborne Parish.
	QC Storm players open up about their fights against cancer The Quad City Storm hockey team held an ice painting event on Tuesday to raise cancer awareness.
	Biden kicks off busy week of presidential candidate visits to the QCA With the Iowa caucuses less than one week away, presidential candidates are traveling across Iowa this week, hoping to come out on top.
	Illinois to continue voter registration program after error Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there are no plans to suspend Illinois' automatic voter registration program as election officials work to contain the fallout from hundreds of mistaken registrations.
	Chinese Orchestra concert stirs QCA coronavirus fear Public assured of "low" exposure risk
	Connecticut man accused of killing wife found unresponsive, 2 sources say Authorities believe Fotis Dulos, the Connecticut man accused of killing his estranged wife Jennifer Farber Dulos, made an apparent suicide attempt Tuesday, according to two law enforcement sources. His current condition is unknown at this time. CNN has reached out to his attorney, Norm Pattis. Authorities requested a well-being check on Dulos after he did not show up for an emergency bond hearing, and upon arrival, Farmington police officers observed Dulos unresponsive and began performing CPR, both law enforcement sources said. Dulos was found alone at his home, one law enforcement source said. Jennifer Farber Dulos, a 50-year-old mother of five, disappeared in May 2019 in New Canaan, Connecticut, after she dropped her children off at school. Investigators found her car near a park not far from her home, but she has not been seen or heard from since, and officials now believe she is dead. She and Fotis Dulos, 52, were in the midst of a bitter custody battle. Jennifer Farber Dulos moved out in 2017 to a home in New Canaan and filed for divorce, court records show. She had told officials she was afraid of her husband before her disappearance, according to court documents obtained by CNN. Fotis Dulos denied making any threats or bullying her, according to court filings. Fotis Dulos and his then-girlfriend, Michelle Troconis, were arrested in June and charged with tampering with or fabricating evidence after investigators found blood stains and evidence of attempts to clean the crime scene, officials said. They had pleaded not guilty. He was arrested on murder and kidnapping charges earlier this month and again pleaded not guilty. Troconis, as well as Dulos' friend and former attorney, Kent Mawhinney, have also been arraigned on a charge of conspiracy to commit murder. Neither has entered a plea yet. Fotis Dulos has denied wrongdoing and his attorney has said the murder case against him lacks sufficient evidence. He was released on a $6 million bond earlier this month, and an emergency bond hearing was set for Tuesday at noon.
	Peoria authorities identify man whose remains were found in 2016 Authorities in Peoria say they have finally identified a man whose remains washed up on the shore of the Illinois River back in 2016.
	Iowa school budget committee forgives more than $9 million in overspending by the Davenport School District DAVENPORT, Iowa — More than $9 million in overspending by the Davenport School District has been forgiven by the State of Iowa’s School Budget Review Committee. Under state law, school districts have budget limits. When a school district spends more than its allotted amount, representatives from that district are required to appear before the committee to provide a corrective action plan. The district made a request for the committee to approve a modified supplemental amount of $9,275,489 in spending authority. The committee approved the amount Tuesday, January 28 in a three to two vote, according to the district’s communications director, Staci Hupp. More details on the ruling were expected to come from Superintendent Robert Kobylski on Wednesday, January 29.
	“Moderate” flu season teaches Rock Island students healthy habits ROCK ISLAND, Illinois – Doctors say we are in the midst of a moderate flu season. Whether you got your flu shot or not, they say you could still get influenza A or B. At Denkmann Elementary School, students know germs are everywhere, but school nurse Susanne Zimanek has a lesson for them she hopes will stick. It involves “Glo-Germ” lotion and with the help of a black light it illuminates the germs on student’s hands. “Probably in the school I’ve had probably about a dozen between last week and this week,” says Zimanek, in reference to the number of students who’ve come to her office. “Most have been B, influenza B, which is interesting and a lot of them have the flu shot too.” “We are seeing a lot of the flu,” says Molly McCarty, a nurse practitioner at UnityPoint Trinity Express Care Clinic. “It’s rampant around the community.” So far, this moderate flu season, McCarty says more than half of their patients at the express care center had influenza. She says even those who got the flu shot are still susceptible to either influenza A or B. “The people who didn’t get the flu shot, they tend to look a little sicker than the rest,” says McCarty. Doctors say it’s not too late to get your flu shot. They also advice to go to clinics and stay away from the emergency room if you have flu symptoms.
	Trump, Yang, and Sanders are the most popular candidates in Iowa according to Youth Straw Poll DES MOINES – Donald Trump, Andrew Yang, and Bernie Sanders received the most votes so far among presidential candidates according to Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate’s Iowa Youth Straw Poll. Thousands of students across the state voted in the poll. The office of Secretary Pate says more than 23,000 votes have been cast in the poll. Donald Trump leads all presidential candidates with 7,604 votes, and more than 91% among Republican candidates. Andrew Yang is second in the overall totals, with 3,370 votes. Yang leads Democratic candidates, garnering 22% of the party’s vote. Bernie Sanders is a close second, with 21%. Pete Buttigieg is third at 18% and Joe Biden sits in fourth place at 11%. No other Democratic candidate surpasses 10% of the vote. “A lot of Youth Straw Poll participants are eligible to vote in the Iowa Caucuses next Monday and I hope many of them do,” Secretary Pate said. “The Youth Straw Poll is designed as a hands-on learning experience to engage students in the civics process.” Among U.S. Senate candidates, Republican Joni Ernst picks up 9,371 votes out of 19,753 cast. Kimberly Graham leads all Democrat candidates with 33% of the party’s vote, followed by Theresa Greenfield at 20% and Michael Franken at 19%. Iowa’s four U.S. House races were also polled. Results for all the races are available here. More ballots are expected to be received on Wednesday, January 29. All results are unscientific. The Iowa Youth Straw Poll is open to students of every grade level and youth civic organizations. Each candidate was asked to submit a short video message to students. Those can be viewed Here.
	Florida daycare worker loses job after writing in marker on baby’s belly The message on the boy’s stomach said, “Mom, I’m out of diapers pls read my report.”
	TaxSlayer ice rink turns into colorful tribute to cancer survivors, fighters MOLINE, Illinois -- The Quad City Storm team invites people to turn the TaxSlayer Center ice rink into a tribute for those affected by cancer. On January 28, the arena was open to the public from 10 AM – 7 PM for the Storm’s "Paint the Ice" event. People were invited to paint the names of loved ones who have fought cancer on the ice in the color that symbolizes the cancer they fought. That's what brought Vicki Neels and her family to the TaxSlayer. "We have gray for a friend’s father who had lung cancer, we have teal for my mom cause she had a uterine cancer," said Neels, listing off several names. "Blue for couple people that had colon cancer." She said cancer is a merciless disease. "It knows no sex. It knows no race. No gender, age," said Neels. "It is unfortunately an equal opportunity disease." Together her and her husband, Hank, painted six names on the ice with the help of their grandson, Jordan. "This is my mom," said Neels as she painted the name Nancy. "17 years cancer free... and she didn’t even tell me about it until last year." She had joyful tears thinking back on the loved ones, like her mom, she still has. Those like her own husband, Hank, that beat cancer. "Well he had had a sore throat… for a long time," Neels said painting next to her husband. "Then on June 3rd of 2011... the doctor said 'yup, it’s stage four head and neck cancer'." She said after ten rounds of chemotherapy and 35 rounds of radiation therapy, her husband Hank beat cancer just months later. "You need the support of your friends, your family, your faith, in order to get to the other end of it," said Neels. "Almost everybody knows a loved one, friend or family that has been impacted by cancer," said Kristi Siwajek, the Community Outreach Coordinator for UnityPoint Health Trinity Cancer Center. Siwajek said the event can be an emotional process, but it could actually help one's healing process. "It’s okay to have tears, it’s all about coming together and fighting for cures. Fighting for those that are still in that journey," Siwajek said. The Neels said they are thankful they were able to make this memory as a family. "We thought it was a good way to commemorate, honor and make sure you don’t forget," said Neels. All names painted will remain on the ice until the Quad City Storm’s "Hockey Fights Cancer Night" on February 1st when the team will take on the Peoria Rivermen. The Storm will be wearing special cancer awareness jerseys covered in ribbons inscribed with the names of cancer fighters, which will be auctioned live after the game. The game is sponsored by UnityPoint Health Trinity and all proceeds raised from the live and online jersey auction, jersey ribbon purchases, chuck-a-puck and more will be donated to the UnityPoint Health Trinity Cancer Center.
	Davenport West student and teacher share experiences from trip to Kenya DAVENPORT, Iowa– A Davenport West teacher and student made a trip to Kenya to work on several projects including, bacteria testing in several water sources, working to purify the water using filtration systems, teaching robotics in classrooms, and collecting data for their eventual return. According to the school, on Monday, January 27, at 8:35 a.m., Davenport West Junior, Brady O’Neil, and Industrial Technology Teacher, Mr. Smith, shared their experiences on a trip to Kenya where they worked as ambassadors for Davenport West INSPIRE. “Brady and Smith shared their findings and experiences from the nearly two week trip to Kenya, that involved working on several projects including, bacteria testing in several water sources, working to purify the water using filtration systems, teaching robotics in classrooms, and collecting data to implement upon the team’s return in Summer of 2021.” According to the school, Brady, Smith, and Ngao tested well water, everywhere they went. They tested shallow wells that were hand-dug between 40 and 50 feet that contained water from local rivers. “The team tested the water on criteria like how clear the water was, conductivity and ph, along with looking for bacteria, which they found almost all water sources to have. What the team discovered was that community members were pumping the water straight from the well and drinking it without it being purified. As a result of not having filtered drinking water, this often leads to sickness that has affected many within the town.” Brady said, “This trip opened my eyes to a lot of things we normally take for granted. I’ve been involved in engineering since my freshman year, and we’re always doing exciting things and it’s given me the opportunity to have real-world problem-solving skills.” Check out some photos from the trip below! Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment Missing Attachment
	Following the candidates; how many times they've visited the Quad Cities area The following candidates are still in the running for the 2020 election. Sen. Michael Bennet, Joe Biden, Michael Bloomberg, Pete Buttigieg, John Delaney, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Deval Patrick, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Tom Steyer, Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Andrew Yang.
	Biden tells voters in Muscatine that this year’s Iowa Caucuses are the most important ever MUSCATINE, Iowa -- Former Vice President Joe Biden told voters in Muscatine and Clinton today that this year's Iowa caucuses might be the most important ever. On his statewide "Soul of the Nation" bus tour on Tuesday, Biden said the country might be able to tolerate just four years under President Trump, but "eight years of Donald Trump will fundamentally change the character of who we are as a country." Defeating Trump in November appears to be his top priority as he makes a final push for Iowa voters to caucus for him. "It’s time to get the heck up, take back the country in a way that we can," Biden said. "We have never, ever failed in anything we’ve done in war or peace, as long as we stick together, so let's get the heck up and take it back now," he said to applause from a crowd of a few dozen supporters at the Muscatine Riverview Center. "He's really the down-to-earth guy I expected," Biden supporter Ismael Lopez said. "I never met him before, but I like what I see." Lopez and several other supporters at the event said they were committed to caucusing for Biden on Monday, but a few others remained holdouts. "I admire him and I respect him but I think my heart and my vote are with Mayor Pete," said Sharon Kapteina, who nevertheless waited in line after the event for a selfie with Biden. Another voter, Bill McCracken, said the event inspired him to support the former Vice President. "I thought it was awesome," he said. "I mean I’ve seen him on TV, heard him on TV but to be here in person and just listen to the passion that he has, Biden is the one who can bring us back to where we need to be as a country," he said.
	Man accused of opening fire at Dixon High School found unfit for trial for the second time DIXON, Illinois — A man accused of opening fire at Dixon High School has been found unfit to stand trial. When he was 19 years old, in May of 2018, Dixon High School student Matthew Milby came to graduation practice with a loaded gun and exchanged fire with a school resource officer, according to previous reports. Milby was shot and injured in the exchange. According to Milby’s defense attorney, Thomas Murray, Milby has a mental disorder. On Tuesday, January 28, Milby was found unfit to stand trial for the second time, previously being found unfit back in March of 2019. Milby was expected to be turned over to the Department of Human Services until he is considered fit for trial. Previous reports show that Milby has pleaded not guilty.
	What you need to know about the Iowa caucuses If you are planning to participate, you need to be registered to vote and choose a party. You will also find your caucus location by using your precinct, but that does not mean the caucus will be held where you usually vote.
	Everything you need to know about the Iowa Caucus
	Honoring Cancer Victims and Survivors The Quad City Storm are helping people affected by cancer honor their loved ones. For the second year, the team is hosting "Paint the Ice," a chance for local residents to paint the names of others who have fought cancer on the ice at the TaxSlayer Center.
	Person hit and killed by train at Galesburg crossing GALESBURG, Illinois — A person was hit and killed by a train in Galesburg on Monday evening, January 27. The incident happened around 8 p.m. at the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad crossing in the 100 block of North Academy Street, according to Deputy Chief Rod Riggs with the Galesburg Police Department. Police said the the train crew saw someone on the tracks as they drew nearer to Academy Street. According to Chief Riggs, the crew said “the person laid down on the track the approaching train was on.” The crew put their brakes on, but could not stop in time.
	Sleepy, sweet puppy up for adoption You'll find him or can meet his siblings at the Rock Island County Animal Care and Control shelter
	Youth straw polls let Iowa students make their voices heard in elections Students across the state of Iowa will vote for candidates in mock-elections just days before the Iowa caucuses. Every public school, private school, homeschool and youth group were invited to participate on Tuesday, Jan. 28. In the Quad Cities, straw polls were held at Edward White Elementary in Eldridge, Rivermont Collegiate School in Bettendorf, Pleasant Valley High School in Riverdale, Davenport West High School and Davenport North High School. Students voted for their preferred candidates for President, the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. By 1 p.m. President Donald Trump collected 1,571 votes, leading the presidential candidates. Entrepreneur Andrew Yang totaled 956 votes and Vermont U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders had 828, coming in second and third place respectively. Each year, the Iowa Secretary of State office organizes the straw polls to “inspire civic engagement.” Click here to keep track of the results.
	Four Fennec Foxes born at Niabi Zoo, Coal Valley Four Fennec Foxes born at Niabi Zoo, Coal Valley
	Bottled Up: Impress your Valentine with a three-course meal and wine pairing It’s almost February and with it, red, pink, and white candy aisles glisten as many prepare to dote upon their significant others, loved ones or gal pals. Restaurants will offer prix fixe menus for the special day, but what’s more…
	Little change in skies and temperatures in the days ahead Clouds will linger through the rest of the day into tonight resulting in little fluctuation in temperatures. This afternoon temperatures around 30 degrees will only drop around the mid 20s overnight. System plaguing areas around the lower Mississippi and Gulf states will enhance our cloudiness locally come Wednesday with the potential for a few snow flurries later in the day. We’ll remain around the freezing mark of 32 degrees both Wednesday and Thursday before we trend a little bit warmer heading into the upcoming weekend. After seeing a few flurries or light snow showers Friday, skies will slowly improve with the weekend’s brightest still on track for Sunday. By then, temperatures will be in the lower 40s with upper 40s by next Monday. Chief meteorologist James Zahara Here’s a look at the hour-by-hour forecast from the StormTrack 8 Weather App! Click on the links below to download the free app:
	34 years ago NASA lost 7 astronauts when Challenger exploded On this day 34 years ago, seven astronauts perished when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded over Cape Canaveral.
	Noon update: Cloudy with a high near 30 degrees
	Bix Museum and Archive in downtown Davenport hires its first director More than two years since it opened, the Bix Beiderbecke Museum and Archive at Davenport's River Music Experience has hired its first director, Nathaniel Kraft.
	New Davenport apartment project in former IH truck service station will feature unusual bowstring truss Another apartment conversion project is being proposed for downtown Davenport, this one west of Brady Street in a brick building constructed in 1927 as the International Harvester Truck Service Station.
	Six former Shopko locations in Iowa to reopen as Hy-Vee Dollar Fresh stores Hy-Vee announced purchase agreements Monday for Shopko buildings in Cresco, Dyersville, Hampton, Oelwein, Vinton and Waukon.
	Disney to give ‘Bambi’ live-action remake Variety reports the studio is developing a live-action redo of its 1942 classic “Bambi.”
	Free kippot will be distributed at interfaith service at St. Paul, Davenport A brief interfaith service will include the distribution of free kippot (brimless caps) at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2136 Brady St., Davenport.
	Burke Cleaners offers free dry cleaning for Night to Shine prom attendees Photo from Night to Shine website’s 2019 highlights. Night to Shine is a complete prom experience for people with special needs. Those aged 14-years-old and up are invited to party the night away at the TaxSlayer Center in Moline. The event is on Friday, Feb. 7 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Burke Cleaners is offering free dry cleaning for those attending. Burke’s district manager Pat Dilla, business manager Kevinn Serrano joined us on News 8 at 11 a.m. to talk about their services before the big event. Jennifer Hildebrand, Night to Shine event organizer, also gave us more details about the prom.
	$Wienermobile pulled over in Wisconsin for traffic infraction$ Wienermobile pulled over in Wisconsin for traffic infraction WAUKESHA, Wis. — Oscar Mayer's iconic Wienermobile got a grilling from a Wisconsin sheriff's deputy because the driver of the giant hot dog failed to give enough room to another car on the road with emergency lights.
	Police issue endangered alert for Louisiana woman and her 4 children The four children were last seen with their mother in a blue 2015 Ford F-150 pickup with a Texas license plate. A 25-year-old man is also likely with them, police say.
	Petition launched to feature Kobe Bryant on NBA logo Millions of people have signed a petition to change the silhouette on the NBA logo to Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant following his tragic death.
	Local therapists typically see more people this time of year for seasonal affective disorder This kind of weather can lead to a depression-like condition known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. Therapists at the Robert Young Center say they typically see more people coming in this time of year.
	Three hospitalized in Dubuque apartment fire Three people were taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation Monday after a fire broke out in a Dubuque apartment.
	Ex-Illinois lawmaker charged with red-light camera bribery (AP)-- The U.S. attorney's office in Chicago has filed bribery and tax charges against a former Illinois state senator and longtime chairman of the powerful transportation committee. A two-page filing in U.S. District Court Monday says the allegations relate to former State Sen. Martin Sandoval's support for the installation of red-light cameras. It says the Chicago Democrat “corruptly solicited, demanded, agreed to accept and accepted” payments for “continued support for the operation of red-light cameras in the State of Illinois." Agents raided Sandoval's office in Springfield, his office in Chicago and his home on Sept. 24 amid still-active federal investigations of public corruption that have ensnared multiple Democrats.
	Angered by transgender flag, Iowa GOP lawmakers seek limits (AP)-- Angered by a flag observing Transgender Day that briefly flew over the Iowa Capitol, Republican lawmakers are moving forward with a bill that would limit the types of flags state and local governments can display. Republicans on Monday moved the bill from a subcommittee to a full committee for consideration. It would allow only the flag of the United States, state of Iowa, a prisoner of war/missing in action flag and a flag of the city, county or school district from being flown at government buildings. A flag observing Transgender Day flew over the Capitol for less than five minutes in November.
	East Moline’s newest coffee shop drumming up business with drive-thru contest EAST MOLINE, Illinois-- A new coffee shop in East Moline is holding a unique contest, encouraging more people to come through their drive-thru window. Iron + Grain Coffee House has been opened for just a little more than a month in the Rust Belt. They've served up plenty of coffee to new guests but this week baristas are keeping an out eye for four-legged guests. "It's pretty new, and it's been a very big whirlwind, but it's really fun," Megan Hogg, one of the baristas said. Hogg came up with the idea to hold a cutest dog contest in the drive-thru. "We're having people bring in their dogs," she explains. "They bring them through the drive-thru. Then we have the little whip cream cups for them. Then we take a picture, and everyone gets to vote." The photos are being posted on Iron + Grains Facebook page. Comment to vote for your favorites and share to help them win. "It's nice to see how happy people get bringing their dogs in and just being able to enjoy something with their dog," Hogg says, "Which sounds kind of odd, but you know, they get to both have their coffee." The contest goes through Saturday at 3 p.m. Voting will be open for a few days after that before a winner is announced.
	Good Morning from WVIK for Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020 Presidential candidates will include the QC and eastern Iowa in their final week of campaigning before the Iowa caucuses,
	News of Bolton book sends jolt through Trump’s impeachment trial News of John Bolton’s book manuscript about his time as President Donald Trump’s national security adviser has exploded into public view, sending a jolt through the president’s impeachment trial.
	Rick's Six: Freezing drizzle, toxic chemicals in Davenport water, and plea deal in beating death of 5-year-old A good Tuesday to all. Allow a little extra time for the morning commute as we are experiencing light freezing drizzle and fog throughout the Quad-City region.
	Muscatine project turns waste into renewable energy The waste to renewable energy project turns organic waste into natural gas and fertilizer.
	Burlington woman, Peoria man arrested in largest meth bust in Arizona DPS history Officials with the Arizona Department of Public Safety announced a traffic stop Friday, January 24 led to a 362 pound methamphetamine bust.
Monday, January 27th, 2020
	Davenport Schools Superintendent says crisis response and violence prevention summits should start in the next few weeks DAVENPORT, IOWA -- The Davenport Superintendent says the school district is looking at how it addresses bullying after a student assaulted another kid at Davenport West High School in November, 2019. Superintendent, Dr. Robert Kobylski, said in an interview with News 8, that the district is planning multiple summits, to hear everyone's ideas for improvement. At the January 27th, 2020, school board meeting, school board members decided to spend more than 40 thousand dollars for a consulting team, CE Consultants, that will help get the new "crisis response and violence prevention summits" started. Dr. Kobylski says the summits will begin with focus groups of parents, teachers, and law enforcement to brainstorm ideas. "CE Consulting will help us reach out to our community with focus groups and surveys, so we can gather information, about not only how people feel, but what they think," Kobylski said. "Then, we will start pulling folks into a room and coming up with a plan for how we want to handle situations that we are dealing with, not only from the school system but from a community perspective." Dr. Kobylski says he hopes the summits bring the community together, so students can focus on their education. "The community comes together and realizes that we have to form a consensus on what our goals are and what our aspirations are for our students and our community, but also to make sure we have a safe and orderly environment within our school system," Kobylski said. He also said the school board is meeting with the Department of Education on January 28th, 2020, to work out details with the new consulting agency. He says community members should see the first meeting within the next month. "We will engage the contract this evening," Kobylski said. "We have a meeting tomorrow afternoon actually to work out the details of the timing of that, but I would fully expect within the next month or so, those focus groups and meetings will be taking place."
	Lottery for Tuesday ILLINOIS LOTTERY
	United Township students took Holocaust history lessons to the stage Monday marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
	East Moline’s Robo Gators design new all-inclusive playground equipment for Silvis EAST MOLINE, Illinois-- A group of students from Glenview Middle School are changing their community in a big way - and it all started with a class project. "This year’s challenge was city shapers," said Sanchia Sommer, head coach of the Robo Gators, a robotics league with the East Moline School District. "So finding a solution to a problem in your city." With that in mind, Sommer said her students took off to solve problems they saw within their own community. "(The students) thought about what kinds of handicap-accessible equipment is out there and do any of our local parks have this equipment?" said Sommer. After doing research, seven students decided to design a wheelchair accessible merry-go-round. "It will be at ground-level so somebody can easily roll on," said Gracie Pfaff, a 5th grader with Robo Gators. "It will have seatbelts from two angles," she said as she demonstrated their model replica. Once strapped in, each child can use a center turn table to spin themselves around. "It's similar to the tea cup rides at Disneyland," Ms. Sommer said. The merry-go-round will also have a bench-style seat where adults accompanying their child can sit. Students said the flooring of the equipment "will be paint or recycled tire so they don’t slip as much." However, the students' assignment did not end with the design. "We usually want to reach out to some professionals and talk to them and get some feedback from them," said Landon Slyter, a 7th grader with Robo Gators. "So we decided to present to a bunch of (city) boards." Sommer said the students pitched their design to the cities of Davenport, Moline and East Moline among others. However, there was one city that saw an immediate opportunity. "I’ve never heard of that before," said Silvis' city administrator Jim Grafton. "So… we’re gonna try it!" "Once I heard that he was going to put it on the budget I was like “what?” I mean that’s crazy," said Slyter. "I would never think that it would get this far," Pfaff said. "They can take some pride knowing that they were involved in implementing a project in our city that many can use for years to come," said Grafton. Grafton said now it is just a matter of "getting it ordered and getting it installed." He estimates the equipment will cost $10,000 and said there are plans to have it installed by this summer. The new merry-go-round will go in Schadt Park, one of the city's busiest parks, where ADA accessible equipment already exists. "I want to try and be a role model for kids out there and let them know they can do this. They can get this into their community," said Slyter. "What a great world it would be if kids could just stay kids and continue to find solutions to problems," said Sommer.
	Clinton Village Inn closes, parent company files for bankruptcy Clinton Village Inn closes, parent company files for bankruptcy
	Colona approves tax for cannabis businesses WHAT WE KNOW: Municipalities can impose a 3% sales tax on cannabis establishments as of Jan. 1.
	Moline approves amending school budget MOLINE – Moline-Coal Valley School Board members on Monday approved beginning the process for amending the 2019-2020 budget, with administration now expecting a smaller education fund deficit.
	City of Clinton awarded Iowa Great Places Grant Clinton is one of just five cities across the state to receive the Iowa Great Places Grant from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs.
	A week of cool cloud cover! Lots of clouds this week with temps a bit on the cool side as the week begins
	Niabi Zoo celebrates birth of four Fennec Foxes The Niabi Zoo is celebrating the birth of four Fennec Foxes.
	Iowa Democratic Chairman says 2020 changes should speed up Caucus night DES MOINES, Iowa – When Iowa Democrats caucus on Monday night, February 3 their selections will be worth more than ever before. "Folks should come prepared to have a vigorous discussion, have a conversation with their friends," said Iowa Democratic Party chairman Troy Price. But it's more than that. Democrats are showing up to pick their favorite candidates but now their selections mean more than ever. "What happens on Caucus night will be the result going forward," said Price. Do you know where to Caucus? In the past, Caucus night merely selected delegates to the County convention, then a smaller delegation would go to the District convention, who are further reduced in size at the state convention. That means the assumed delegate count Caucus night could change by June. "The close results in 2016 really highlighted some of the challenges within our process," said Price. Democrats in 2016, like Republicans in 2012, were stung by an incredibly close Caucus. Hillary Clinton won Iowa by just three tenths of a percentage point. Four years earlier, Mitt Romney was declared the winner, only to find out 16 days later that Rick Santorum won by three dozen votes. "We could see our largest turnout, just given the size of the field," predicted Chairman Price. "We've been preparing for our largest turnout." So this Caucus, Iowa Democrats say they'll have more party registration forms ready for newcomers. Also, Presidential preference cards will be distributed to record the ballots. "We'll be able to take all these cards and we'll be able to recreate each of the precincts," said Price. And, Caucus goers will be able to see who is voting for who. "So they'll be able to see who progresses through this process and whose able to bring our party together." These are changes made by Democrats but also welcomed by Iowa Republicans who say what their political adversaries do to make Caucus night stronger helps their Party as well. And Iowa Republicans say results of their Caucus may be a foregone conclusion, but Monday night's gathering is still important for them. "(We need to) show the rest of this world that Iowa deserves this honor," said Iowa Republican chairman Jeff Kaufmann. "That really is the thing that we can do this Caucus season."
	‘Outlet Challenge’ has school officials warning parents of safety concerns The ‘outlet challenge’ has kids plugging a phone charger into a wall leaving enough space to drop a penny in between the wall and the outlet.
	Bucktown gallery manager becomes new community arts head at Quad City Arts A cushion to the planned shutdown of the 26-year-old MidCoast Fine Arts nonprofit organization is that Tony Seabolt, gallery manager at MidCoast's Bucktown Center for the Arts in Davenport, has been named the new community arts director of Quad City…
	YOUR HEALTH: Alpacas are helping crack some of our medical mysteries NASHVILLE, Tennessee – Researchers want to know why some animals can handle illnesses, infections, and diseases differently than humans. It's led some of them to alpaca farms. Alpacas may be coveted for their wool and maybe their personalities but according to some researchers what's in their blood may prove to be more valuable. "Turns out that alpacas and other members of the camel family, old-world camels and llamas, have a very unique form of antibody," said Vanderbilt University associate Pharmacology professor Brian Wadzinski. They have a heavy-chain-only antibody, which means it is easier to extract and isolate a fragment of that antibody. "It sort of enables the study of new diseases as they are being understood to be related to specific mutations," explained his colleague Benjamin Spiller. Such as Jordan's Syndrome which affects about 100 kids worldwide. The team is using the alpaca antibodies to visualize and potentially regulate the gene product PPP2R5D, which is linked to the condition. "Patients that have this syndrome known as Jordan's Syndrome, they are characterized both with intellectual disability, a large head, low muscle tone," said Wadzinski. The same gene that is linked to Jordan's Syndrome is also linked to autism, Alzheimer's, and some forms of cancers. "I think one of the beautiful things about what we've been doing is it's allowed us to engage three different groups of people, group of scientists here at Vanderbilt, a group of farmers out in rural Tennessee and then the families who have children that are afflicted with this syndrome," - Brian Wadzinski Wadzinski said with a quick blood sample from the alpacas they have "a plethora of different tools to be able to study. "This will increase our understanding and hopefully pave the way for future development of treatments," he added. Earlier this year, the first drug to use antibodies from the species camelid which include camels, llamas and alpacas, gained FDA approval. It is used to treat a rare blood clotting disorder called TTP. If this story has impacted your life or prompted you or someone you know to seek or change treatments, please let us know by contacting Jim Mertens at jim.mertens@wqad.com or Marjorie Bekaert Thomas at mthomas@ivanhoe.com.
	Silvis approves 3% retail cannabis tax SILVIS — Silvis aldermen have approved an ordinance establishing a 3% sales tax on the retail sale of cannabis within the city limits.
	Shane Brown: The Columbia House music scam made me what I am today I was wasting time on Facebook the other day when a funny meme sent me on an all-expenses-paid trip to Nostalgiatown.
	Federal investigators to visit to Iowa care centers in February (AP) — Federal officials investigating practices at two Iowa care centers say they plan to visit next month and have asked the state for extensive documents. The state learned in November that the U.S. Department of Justice was investigating the Glenwood Resource Center for possible violations of patient civil rights. They were also investigating the Woodward Resource Center for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Related: Superintendent fired at center for disabled Iowans amid investigation into human experiments Federal officials said in a letter dated Dec. 19 that they wanted lists of former Glenwood employees, residents, grievances involving residents, and charts for everyone who has died in the past year. The centers have a mission of helping people with intellectual disabilities.

Tuesday, January 28th, 2020

Monday, January 27th, 2020