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

Friday, January 15th, 2021
	200+ Iowa guard soldiers, airmen will go to DC to aid inauguration More than 21,000 national guard soldiers and airmen from 44 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia will be providing support during the inauguration.
	Gift of Giving: 'Hand In Hand' aims to allow everyone to reach their full potential Hand In Hand was an organization developed by two families with a goal to help those with special needs.
	Iowa officials report 1,347 new COVID-19 cases, 6 deaths over 24 hours That brings the statewide total to 302,789 cases and 4,257 since the pandemic began
	Cookies & Dreams is Open in Bettendorf Continue reading…
	Expect lane closures on I-280 bridge The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announce that temporary lane closures on the Interstate 280 bridge over the Mississippi River will begin on Monday, January 18, and last through February. The closures are necessary to prepare the bridge for a multiyear deck replacement project that will begin later in the spring. There will be temporary daytime and nighttime lane closures in both the eastbound and westbound lanes of the bridge in order to do deck inspection, installing netting, and patching. Motorist should expect delays when traveling in the area and allow for extra time. The use of an alternate route to avoid the construction delays should be considered. The $49.7 million deck replacement project will begin in the early spring with the replacement of the westbound bridge deck. The eastbound bridge deck will be replaced in 2022. In 2023, the approach from the bridge to the Illinois 92 interchange will be resurfaced. The bridge will also be painted. One lane is each direction will be maintained during all stages of the project. The overall project is expected to be completed by late 2023.
	Names of Bettendorf house fire victims released Bettendorf Police have released the names of the victims of the house fire that took place on Thursday, January 14.
	COVID-19 antibody testing available at Hy-Vee Hy-Vee will start offering COVID-19 rapid antibody tests at their pharmacy locations beginning Monday, January 18. The antibody test can show if someone had an infection of COVID-19 in the past and is not meant to indicate a current infection since antibodies take one to three weeks to develop. Anyone who wants to know if they had been previously infected with COVID-19 and are not currently experiencing any symptoms can get a test for $25, by any form of payment, including health account savings (HSA) and flexible spending accounts (FSA). The antibody test uses a finger stick to collect a small blood sample and results will be emailed that same day. Patients must register online by selecting "antibody test" to schedule a testing time and location and get a test voucher. The tests will be administered inside the Hy-Vee Pharmacy. Testing date and times vary by location. Children 6 years and older can be tested when registered and accompanied by a parent or guardian. Quad City area Hy-Vees that are offering the antibody test are: In Iowa: Bettendorf Hy-Vee, 2900 Devils Glen Road, BettendorfHy-Vee South, 939 Angular Street, BurlingtonClinton Hy-Vee, 901 South Fourth Street, ClintonUtica Ridge Hy-Vee, 4064 East 53rd Street, DavenportWest Locust Street Hy-Vee, 2351 West Locust Street, DavenportHy-Vee on Rockingham, 3019 Rockingham Road, DavenportWest Kimberly Road Hy-Vee, 2200 West Kimberly Road, DavenportNorthgate Hy-Vee, 1823 East Kimberly Road, DavenportLocust Street Hy-Vee, 400 South Locust Street, DubuqueHy-Vee on Dodge Street, 3500 Dodge Street, DubuqueAsbury Plaza Hy-Vee, 2395 N.W. Arterial, DubuqueMuscatine Hy-Vee Mainstreet, 510 East Sixth Street, MuscatineMuscatine Hy-Vee, 2400 Second Avenue, Muscatine In Illinois: East Main Hy-Vee, 2030 East Main Street, GalesburgHy-Vee on Henderson, 1975 National Boulevard, GalesburgMacomb Hy-Vee, 1600 East Jackson Street, MacombMilan Hy-Vee, 201 10th Avenue, MilanHy-Vee on Avenue of the Cities, 4218 Avenue of the Cities, MolineJohn Deere Road Hy-Vee, 750 42nd Avenue, MolineRock Island Hy-Vee, 2930 18th Avenue, Rock IslandTwin Oaks Hy-Vee, 2001 Fifth Street, Silvis
	Foodie Friday: Meat Bowl, Round 2 The Local 4 News This Morning crew tries the two latest dishes featured in this year's Meat Bowl, presented by Iowa Beef and Iowa Pork. Here are this week's recipes: Pineapple Cream Cheese Pig Shots; Entered by Wendy Lewis. Preheat the smoker. Preheat your smoker to 300 degrees F. This method is also adaptable for the oven if you don't own a smoker. Simply preheat to the same temperature.Make the pig "shot glasses." Slice the sausage into 1/2 inch thick rounds. Wrap each slice of sausage with a half of a slice of bacon so it forms a little "shot glass" of meat. Season the shots with the sweet rub.Make the pineapple cream cheese filling. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, brown sugar, and most of the pineapple chunks, reserving a couple of tablespoons of the pineapple to top the shots with later.Fill the pig shots. Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a quart sized zip top bag and snip off the bottom corner. Fill each shot glass with some of the mixture, leaving just a little room at the top. Spoon the remaining crushed pineapple into the top of each shot and season them all again with a little sweet rub.Smoke the pig shots. Carefully transfer the shots to the grill grates (or a foil lined pan if using your oven) and cook for 75-90 minutes, or until the bacon gets crisp.Serve warm. Serve the pineapple cream cheese pig shots warm with plenty of napkins. 1 package smoked pork sausage or kielbasa2 -8 oz packages cream cheese (softened)1 cup crushed pineapple½ cup brown sugar1 teaspoon salt2 Tablespoons Signature Sweet Rub1 pound bacon (cut in half width wise ) Meatballs; Entered by Sara Sikkema. 1 pound beef1 egg1 piece of breadGreen onionsDash of PaprikaDash of Red PepperSaltPepperMeatball sauce2 tablespoons soy sauce1 teaspoon lemon juice4 tablespoons brown sugar barbecue sauce1 tablespoon ketchupDash of red pepper and green onionsMeatball directionsPut beef in a large bowl and add the egg. Tear up the piece of bread into tiny pieces and add to bowl. Chop up green onions and add those to bowl. Add all the seasonings and mix together well. Make into small balls and place on baking sheet. Add meatball sauce before putting in oven. Pre heat oven to 375° and cook for 30 minutes.Meatball sauceMix ingredients together and chill in refrigerator a few hours. Put on meatballs and place in oven.
	Don't Forget, It's Illegal To Warm Up Your Car In Illinois Continue reading…
	Speaking with Governor Kim Reynolds Governor Kim Reynolds talks about her Condition of the State speech delivered this week. She discusses her major initiatives on schools, health care, broadband, workforce training, licensing reform and criminal justice.
	Icestravaganza! Davenport's 9th annual ice carving event is pandemic friendly With Halloween-inspired ice sculptures, Icestravaganza is keeping social distancing in mind and is spread across three days this year to help reduce crowds.
	One Night of Queen Rescheduled For July Continue reading…
	Foundation awards $100,000 grants to QC school districts, housing group Two Quad Cities-area groups have been awarded Transformation Grants from the Quad Cities Community Foundation to bring equitable solutions to the bi-state region. The East Moline and United Township School Districts and Humility Homes and Services will each receive $100,000 Transformation Grants thanks to the many donors to the Quad Cities Community Impact Fund at the Community Foundation. “The past year has shed light on the racial and socioeconomic issues of our country,” said Sherry Ristau, president and CEO. “And while we must all continue to educate ourselves about the inequities that touch our community, nation and world, it is also important for us to act on great ideas and long-term solutions to those challenges. The grants we are awarding today are part of our commitment to building a just, inclusive and equitable community.” The first grant supports a collaboration between the East Moline and United Township School Districts to ensure quality WIFI in student homes, especially critical during the global COVID-19 pandemic. In the initial phase of their comprehensive project, the families of 100 students in the school districts will gain access to quality Internet in their homes. The $100,000 grant is not only a huge step forward to foster equity in the community, but also speaks volumes about the importance of providing equal opportunities for students, said East Moline School District Superintendent Kristin Humphries. “We’re going to light up neighborhoods with WIFI,” Humphries said. “Through this first step, we are hoping to show the community, local business leaders, and other potential funders that technology upgrades like this have a transformative impact on lives now—and far down the road.” Students whose second language is English face additional challenges when they cannot be linked to their classes by video due to lack of Internet. More than 40 languages are spoken in the East Moline School District alone, Humphries added, helping to support equitable access to both technology—and education—for these students in particular. The second $100,000 Transformation Grant, to Humility Homes and Services, will provide stable housing and support for individuals with complex challenges. The grant supports the organization’s five-year goal to end the need for their emergency winter shelter by offering long-term solutions for community members experiencing homelessness. Ashley Velez, executive director at Humility, said the grant represent the community once again stepping up to prevent homelessness. “Investments in housing reduce arrests and emergency treatment needs,” Velez said. “Finding equitable housing solutions is better for the individuals and our community both in the short-term—and the long-term. The partnerships we’ve been able to foster with donors, and city and county government, are critical to removing the barriers to permanent housing.” These Transformation Grants do more than provide a one-time infusion of funding for a nonprofit, as they have serious long-term impacts on the people they serve—and our broader bi-state region. “We serve as a connector in this community—matching brilliant ideas with generous people,” said Kelly Thompson, vice president of grantmaking and community initiatives. “Over the past year, our board and staff has listened to the needs of this community, identified the nonprofits that are addressing those needs, and have made the decision to support them through donor generosity. These grants are examples of the ways we can come together to create lasting change and strengthen our communities.” “These grantees are represented by community leaders taking a leap toward the next level for the efforts they support,” Thompson added. “The solutions they are leading benefit multiple organizations and systems, and make the Quad Cities a more inclusive and equitable place. We are proud to support them as they champion their efforts.” This winter, the Community Foundation also awarded a $50,000 Transformation Grant to the United Way for the Quad Cities’ United for Equity Fund, which is addressing racial inequities in multiple areas of our communities, including health, education and income systems in the Quad Cities. With these new awards, more than $1 million has been granted through this program. This is the sixth time that the Quad Cities Community Foundation has made Transformation Grants that align with the Community Foundation’s mission to transform the region through the generosity of donors. The first Transformation Grant was made in 2015 to the Scott County Housing Council for homelessness prevention. Since then, $100,000 grants have been awarded to the United Way Women United Born Learning Initiative, Family Resources’ Comprehensive Care Coordination Services Program, Grow Quad Cities for the Q2030 Regional Action Plan, Robert Young Center, Child Abuse Council, Vera French Mental Health Center, and Mercado on Fifth.
	Wilton Junior-Senior High School named finalist in Samsung ‘Solve for Tomorrow’ contest It’s a nationwide contest to help the community through technology.
	Scattered snow showers today This forecast is current as of Friday morning, January 15th. Following some snow & wintry mix yesterday, more snow showers will develop in the QCA today. A low pressure center will meander through eastern Iowa today, bringing blizzard conditions to the western half of the state, but just light snow to our area. Scattered snow showers will develop into this afternoon, leading to brief periods of reduced visibility and light accumulations. Additional snow up 1" is possible for most locations. Wind speeds will remain under 15 mph, so blowing & drifting snow shouldn't be big problems. A few flurries will linger into Saturday.
	Hy-Vee to Offer COVID-19 Antibody Testing at QCA Locations Continue reading…
	9th annual Icestravaganza returns to Davenport Freight House Artists this year are working with about 100 blocks of ice to create a Halloween scene.
	Man found dead under train in Muscatine Initial investigation suggests that the man had intentionally walked onto the tracks as the train was approaching.
	Good Morning from WVIK News for Friday, January 15, 2021
	Rick's Six: 2 die in Bettendorf fire, LeClaire man faces meth charges, and a chance of snow
	A through K This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island. We Rock Island Lutherans don’t take much stock in the doctrine of predestination—except when it comes to church potlucks. Somewhere in the fine print of the Augsburg Confession, the early church fathers determined that Lutherans whose last names begin with A through K must always bring salads to church suppers.
	Civil War Comes to Rock Island This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island. The first few minutes of a war are exciting. Some madness seems to make men eager to leave home and family to hunt each other down.
Thursday, January 14th, 2021
	Breasia Terrell AMBER Alert canceled after six months, Missing Persons case continues The then 10-year-old was reported missing on July 10th, just over six months ago, and was last seen in Davenport, according to police.
	School district reacts to family members injured, lost in Bettendorf fire A school district in Bettendorf is mourning with the family of those injured and killed in a house fire early Thursday morning. The following statement was posted to the school district's website and also sent out to staff and parents: "This is a sad and tragic day for all of us in the Bettendorf Community School District, and the broader community. We have come to learn about the passing of members of a Bettendorf family due to the tragic home fire on Thursday. Words cannot begin to express our feelings of pain and grief over the loss of life. In addition to a Bettendorf parent, one of our precious preschool students has passed, and one of our high school students and a parent were injured. We pray for their quick recovery. This family lived next door to Neil Armstrong Elementary School. They were our friends and neighbors, and our hearts are heavy as we mourn with the family. We will have additional counselors available to address the needs of students and staff members within the district and will continue to provide support to our school families as we process this painful event. Thank you for all you do to support our students and each other during this difficult time!" Names of victims in the fire are being withheld pending notification of family. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
	Homeless shelters in the QC make efforts to keep the homeless out of the cold despite challenges Homeless shelters are preparing for the possibility more people may need a roof over their heads during bad weather. Managers at Christian Care and Humility Homes and Services say they have not reached capacity this winter, but there's an increase in the number of people seeking shelter. They add this winter has been one of the busiest because of the pandemic and want to make sure anyone who needs shelter has the opportunity. Senekia Hall, Christian Care Residence coordinator, says they expect to see more people seeking shelter. "If we are full, we normally refer them out to another agency that has openings," says Hall. The shelter has 42 beds total — six of which is the Grant Per Diem Program, three for the Drug Court Program and the remaining 33 for emergency shelter. Hall says, "People call every day; it's just if they show or not. So, they'll call, and some will and some won't." "Between winter shelter and our shelter serving over 150 people day after day, week after week, is certainly the highest numbers we've ever seen," says Christine Adamson, Assistant Director of Humility Homes and Services. The pandemic safety restrictions have forced shelters to cut back on the number of people they can accommodate, but they have made adjustments. "We have some folks staying with us at our actual shelter facility, but in a much reduced capacity because of the pandemic. Then, we have everyone else located at hotels," says Adamson. The eviction moratorium will end soon, which brings concerns. Adamson says an eviction crisis could send more people into homelessness. "We may be serving numbers of individuals unlike anything we have seen in our careers. So, that again goes back to our interest in really encouraging people to advocate and get help before it's too late," says Adamson. Both Christian Care and Humility Homes say they could always use more donations. For those who want to help out, it's best to contact the shelters.
	Therapy dogs out of commission due to pandemic Sharon Cramer says Bailey the therapy dog misses visiting hospitals and schools, noting they’ve visited almost every school in the Rock Island and Quad Cities area, “she misses all of that and I think she’s a bit depressed.”
	Therapy dogs out of commission due to pandemic: “I think she’s a bit depressed.” Sharon Cramer says Bailey the therapy dog misses visiting hospitals and schools, noting they’ve visited almost every school in the Rock Island and Quad Cities area, “she misses all of that and I think she’s a bit depressed.”
	Watch: News 8 Drone flies high over Eagle Point Park in Clinton The Stone Tower and a limestone footbridge are highlights of the area, first designated as a park in 1888.
	Explore new ideas at CommUniversity in February Explore new ideas and engage in lively discussions at CommUniversity at Black Hawk College. CommUniversity is a series of Sunday=afternoon seminars taught by local experts in arts/humanities, personal enrichment, regional studies and theology/spirituality. It’s a friendly learning atmosphere with no exams or papers to write. For 2021, CommUniversity will be virtual, so participants can experience the same great classes and instructors from their homes. Choose from classes such as: "Stories and Myths of Ancient Egypt""There’s More to Being Irish than Green Beer and Leprechauns""Why are Americans so Politically Divided by Partisanship and What Can be Done About It?""Basic Spanish""The Psychology of Humor""Community Development Through the Career of George Davenport""Judaism Addresses the Challenging Issues of Our Day" Sessions will be Sundays, Feb. 7-28, from 2-4 p.m. Participants will receive a Zoom link before the program begins. Cost is $40. For details or to register, visit www.bhc.edu/cu or call 309-796-8223.
	QC COVID-19 Coalition outlines phase 1B plans The Rock Island Health Department is still in phase 1A for healthcare workers but expect to move to tier 1B soon.
	Two dead, one in critical condition after early morning Bettendorf house fire Bettendorf firefighters responded to calls of a structure fire after 5:30 A.M. Thursday, where a teenager managed to escape.
	2021 JEFFERSON AWARDS: Lola VanDeWalle - Serving Those Who Have Served Us She is "Multiplying Good" by helping all veterans... in memory of a special one.
	Police: Man intentionally stepped in front of train A 40-year-old man was found dead underneath a train shortly after noon Thursday, according to the Muscatine Police Department. Muscatine police received a report shortly after 12:30 p.m. about an individual under a train along the riverfront area of downtown Muscatine. Officers found a deceased man under the stopped train near the East Mississippi Drive and Sycamore Street intersection. The male was identified as Robert Wayne Miller. The initial investigation indicates that Miller was a pedestrian who intentionally entered the tracks as the train was approaching. Access to the riverfront was blocked for several hours while the investigation took place.
	Two dead, one in critical condition after early morning Bettendorf house fire Bettendorf firefighters responded to calls of a structure fire after 5:30 A.M. Thursday, where a teenager managed to escape.
	Humility Homes and two area school districts plan to spend new "Transformation Grants" Humility Homes and Services in Davenport, plus the East Moline and United Township school districts, were announced as recipients of the grants on Wednesday.
	2021 JEFFERSON AWARDS: Lola VanDeWalle - Serving Those Who Have Served Us She is "Multiplying Good" by helping all veterans... in memory of a special one.
	How to help mail carriers in rough winter conditions Icy conditions are a big risk for the people who deliver the mail and packages. A homeowner in Davenport is going beyond shoveling and salting sidewalks to keep them safe. He shovels a path across his front yard where mail carriers go house to house to get done as quickly as possible. He got the idea while shoveling for his mom when he saw a postal worker walk through several inches of snow. How he's hoping others will join him in doing it, and a local mail carrier tells Local 4 what it means to have help from homeowners.
	Family members pulled from Bettendorf home as fire rages inside The Bettendorf Fire Department responded to a fire on Riverview Lane around 5:45 a.m. At least three people were seen on stretchers. Their conditions are unknown.
	COVID-19 claims three lives in Scott County, 1B vaccination in Iowa will move "quite slowly" Scott County Health Department Director Ed Rivers said Iowa is expected to move to Phase 1B of the vaccination schedule Feb. 1, but there is no guarantee 1B vaccinations will start immediately on that date.
	COVID-19 claims three lives in Scott County, 1B vaccination in Iowa will move "quite slowly" Scott County Health Department Director Ed Rivers said Iowa is expected to move to Phase 1B of the vaccination schedule Feb. 1, but there is no guarantee 1B vaccinations will start immediately on that date.
	Hy-Vee offering rapid antibody testing at many locations in Iowa and Illinois Tests will provide same-day results.
	Davenport wants more cops on the street. Here's what they're asking of Iowa lawmakers City officials have also requested lawmakers allow cities to bring a case before local district courts to abate public safety nuisances caused by bars, rather than having to rely on the Iowa Alcohol and Beverage Division.
	CRIME STOPPERS: Man wanted on probation violation charges Anyone with information should call police.
	CRIME STOPPERS: Man displays box cutter, steals cash from Kwik Star Anyone with information is urged to call police.
	CRIME STOPPERS: Suspect wanted following burglary at Tobacco Outlet Anyone with information should call police.
	CRIME STOPPERS: Man wanted on murder charges in Rock Island Anyone with information should call the police.
	Start your engines! Cordova International Raceway plans action-packed year Cordova International Raceway has announced an action-packed schedule for 2021 highlighted by the 67th Annual O’Reilly Auto Parts World Series of Drag Racing Aug. 27-29. The world’s longest continually running drag racing event is highlighted by the thrilling pro show featuring fire-breathing Nitro and Jet cars, ground-pounding Pro Mods, Nostalgia Pro Stocks and a gravity-defying Wheelstander, a news release says A big part of Cordova’s history, brings the community together April 3 and 10 for Volunteer Day. Raceway staff, racers, fans and sponsors come together working toward a common goal of preparing the facility for the 2021 season. Other events include the first annual GM, Ford and Mopar Nationals on May 22, and the second annual Nostalgia Nationals June 12, featuring Nostalgia Pro Stock, Gassers and more. The first test and tune is scheduled for April 10 with the first points race for the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Summit SuperSeries, and the Kamper Korner Bracket Series takes place May 1. The popular “River Redemption” small-tire racing series returns for a fourth season beginning May 29. Octoberfest and Halloweird with the Ironman Benefit Race close out an action-packed season Oct. 16. For more information about the raceway visit RaceCIR.com or call 309-654-2110.
	TV6′s Skubie Mageza to join in on the ‘Hidden Conversation’ Thursday It will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday.
	Police: Man dies after being struck by train in Muscatine This is a developing story.
	Rock Island County reports 56 new COVID-19 cases The Rock Island County Health Department reported 56 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, bringing the county total to 11,521. There were no new reported deaths due to the coronavirus, so the number of deaths remains at 281. There are currently 35 patients hospitalized in the county. The new cases are: 2 men in their 80s6 men in their 60s2 men in their 50s3 men in their 40s6 men in their 30s7 men in their 20s1 man in his teens1 boy in his teens1 boy younger than 131 woman in her 70s6 women in their 60s4 women in their 50s6 women in their 40s2 women in their 30s5 women in their 20s2 girls younger than 131 girl infant 1 or younger For a more complete look at the numbers from the local counties, visit our COVID-19 Cases in Illinois & Iowa webpage. To get more statistics about COVID-19 in Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health website.
	Looking to eat healthy? Here's a guide to the most popular eating plans So, how's that New Year's resolution going?
	Firefighters: Heater caused fire over New Year's weekend; tips to stay safe During the New Year’s weekend a trailer fire in Muscatine resulted in fire damage to one room and smoke damage throughout the trailer. The quick response of the Muscatine Fire Department prevented a much bigger tragedy, a news release says. The investigation into the fire determined the initial cause was a heating device left too close to combustibles. The investigation also found several other space heaters plugged into extension cords, placed in close proximity to combustibles, and smoke detectors present but the batteries taken out. “This fire brings up safety topics of smoke alarm maintenance, use of extension cords, and the use and spacing of space heaters,” Mike Hartman, Muscatine Fire Department assistant chief and fire marshal, said. Heating, cooking, decorations, and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months. The National Fire Protection Association says that it is important to pay careful attention to the proper use and maintenance of heating equipment, which are one of the major causes of residential fires. The primary culprits in home heating fires are open-flame space heaters, portable electric heaters, and wood-burning fireplaces and stoves. Improperly installed or maintained central heating equipment can also be a cause of fire in the home, although not as often. Heating is the second leading cause of residential fires, deaths, and injuries in the United States with December, January, and February the peak months. Space heaters are the cause in two out of every five home fires. Hartman said fire code does allow space heaters but they are required to be plugged directly into the outlet. “Space heaters pull a lot of power and can overheat extension cords and multi-plug adapters,” Hartman said. “The heaters need to be properly listed (kind of a given anymore), and spaced at least three feet from combustible materials.” Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the invisible killer. This odorless, colorless gas is created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. Carbon monoxide incidents are more common during the winter months, and in residential properties. The Muscatine Fire Department suggests a few simple precautions to help reduce the risk of a home heating tragedy, either by fire or deadly carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning: · Open-flame space heaters: Maintain at least three feet of clearance from the front and sides of the heater to any combustible materials, such as curtains, drapes, furniture, and bedding. Make certain the heater burns with a clean blue flame across the entire burner. If it does not, a plumber or heating expert should clean the burner and adjust the flame. Avoid the use of any type of unvented fuel burning heating device, and if absolutely necessary use only if the space is equipped with both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. · Portable electric heaters: Should always to be placed on the floor, not in a chair or on other objects. The portable electric heater should have an automatic shut-off device to turn it off if tipped over. Its electrical cord should not be in an area where it will get walked on repeatedly, without being protected by a cord protector, mat, or rug. · Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves: Maintain at least three feet of clearance from the front and sides of the fireplace or wood-burning stove to any combustible materials (see open-flame space heaters above). The flue or chimney should be checked periodically (optimally once a year) for creosote buildup, cracked, or broken flue tiles, loose mortar joints, and corroded or leaking flue pipes. The flue or chimney should be checked before use to be certain it isn’t blocked. These are attractive locations for birds and squirrels to build nests. · Fresh air: Be sure to allow some fresh air into the area where the stove or fireplace is in use. A lack of fresh air can cause incomplete combustion and/or interfere with the unit’s ability to draft properly, either of which can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate in the home. · Type of wood: The type of wood burned in a fireplace or free standing woodstove is important. Your best bet is to use hardwood, such as oak, maple, beech, or ash. It should be properly dried or seasoned for about one year. We also advise removing ashes regularly for maximum air flow. Disposal of ashes should be in a non-combustible container such as a metal bucket. Hot ashes or coals can smolder for days, and if placed in a cardboard box, or plastic garbage container the results can be disastrous. · Avoid burning trash: Homeowners should avoid burning items such as trash or gift wrapping paper. · Fireplace screen: Also, when leaving a room while a fire is burning, a fireplace screen or glass door should be closed to protect the room from sudden sprays of sparks. SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are two essential tools every resident needs to protect their families and their homes. Working smoke alarms provide an early warning of a fire and allows residents to exit the home quickly and safely according to the National Fire Prevention Association. Carbon monoxide detectors are also a life saving device, notifying residents of the odorless gas that could be fatal. Residents should check the batteries in each device located in the home at least twice a year and replace each device after 10 years (always write the date of installation on the device). EXTENSION CORDS & POWER STRIPS Most extension cords and power strips are meant to handle lower amounts of current and cannot handle the high currents space heaters draw. Extension cords and power strips are also a tripping hazard in the home and that could be harmful to a person and also cause the space heater to fall over. Space heaters need to be plugged directly into the wall as heating elements can reach 500-600 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also keep an eye on them when it is in use. “There is a common theme in space heater fires,” Hartman said. “They were left unattended.”
	Accident in Bettendorf knocks down light pole A minor accident between a car and a pickup knocked down a light pole in the 1000 block of State Street in Bettendorf just after 1 p.m. on Thursday. There were no injuries from the accident and it remains under investigation. Local 4 News was first and only station at the scene. 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.
	30+ in the hospital due to COVID-19 in Rock Island County Officials with the county's health department released the numbers on Thursday.
	Some calls not going through to Colona Police Dept. on Thursday The Colona Police Department announced they are having phone issues on Thursday.
	Financial help still available for some Illinois residents struggling to pay heating bills Project NOW announced there is still funding available for residents in Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties.
	Muscatine Fire Dept. urges caution when using portable heating devices this winter Earlier this month, firefighters responded to a trailer fire. An investigation revealed that the initial cause was a heating device left too close to combustibles.
	Suspected meth dealer held on $100,000 bond A 34-year-old LeClaire man was being held Thursday on $100,000 bond after police say he sold methamphetamine to undercover officers. Zackery Vaughn faces charges of felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of possession with intent to deliver, all felonies. In an arrest affidavit, police say Vaughn sold about 2.52 grams of meth for $140 to an officer shortly before 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9, 2020, in the area of the 800 block of Middle Road, Bettendorf. On Tuesday, Quad-City Metropolitan Enforcement Group agents served a search warrant on Vaughn in the area of 5000 Competition Drive, Bettendorf. During the search they found he had about 6.68 grams of meth and another 0.2 grams meth. Agents also served a warrant on the 1400 block of Dodge Street, LeClaire, and found two guns in the residence. The affidavit notes Vaughn was convicted of domestic battery/bodily harm on Aug. 30, 2006 in Rock island County. He is scheduled for arraignment at 11 a.m. Feb. 4 in Scott County Court.
	Illinois reports 6,600+ new coronavirus cases, more vaccine doses As of Tuesday night, 704,225 doses of vaccine were delivered to providers across the state.
	Target Announced Quad-City Stores Will Be Closed on Thanksgiving Continue reading…
	Four sent to hospital after early morning fire in Bettendorf The Bettendorf Fire Department responded to a fire at 9 Riverview Lane just after 5:30 a.m. on Thursday. When crews arrived, fire could be seen on the exterior of the home and was found on the main level of the split level structure. One occupant was able to get out of the home, but indicated that three others were still inside. Fire crews were able to get them all out. All four were treated at the scene and then taken to a hospital. The Davenport Fire Department and Rock Island Arsenal Fire Department assisted at the scene. The fire is still under investigation.
	Iowa surpasses 300,000 coronavirus cases Iowa officials reported 1,532 new COVID-19 cases and 19 more deaths between 10:30 a.m. Wednesday and 10:30 a.m. Thursday,
	Assistance available to help pay utility bills Project NOW's Low Income Housing Assistance Program (LIHEAP) still has funding to help Rock Island, Henry, and Mercer county residents who are having a hard time paying heating bills. The assistant is available to those living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. “Many people continue to struggle financially to meet the basic needs of their household due to the persistence of the COVID-19 pandemic," says Project NOW's Executive Director Dwight Ford. "We want Individuals and families to know that we are here to provide support and resources during this difficult season.” Ford adds that the assistance will be available through May or until funding runs out. The program is funded through the state and provides one-time payments, a percentage of income payments, reconnection assistance, and emergency furnace assistance. Appointments can be made by calling one of the following local Project NOW offices: Rock Island Office - (309) 793-6391Henry County - (309) 852-4565Senior Center - (309) 788-6335Mercer County - (309) 582-2644 The following documents need to be provided for the assistance application: Photo ID30 days proof of gross income for all household membersValid Social Security Card for everyone in the householdMedical Card/Link Card/Medicare CardCurrent utility bill
	Continuing weekly unemployment claims increase in Iowa Iowa Workforce Development reports 7,638 people filed initial unemployment claims in Iowa last week, a slight decrease from the previous week.
	Officials report total of 45 COVID-19 related deaths in Henry County, Ill. Health officials announced the most recent death was of a woman in her 100s, who had tested positive for the virus.
	WGU offers "Dream" scholarships Western Governors University (WGU) has announced a scholarship opportunity. WGU announced it will award $100,000 in scholarships to those who have dreamed of furthering their education but have faced challenges in their lives that have prevented them from doing so.
	Financial help is available to those struggling to pay utility bills Project NOW’s Low Income Housing Assistance program (known as LIHEAP) still has available funding for residents in Rock Island, Henry, and Mercer counties struggling to pay their heating bills.
	A dynamic system brings rain, snow, and ice to the Quad Cities This forecast is current as of 9:30 Thursday morning. All week we've been tracking this system and as of this morning it is officially here. We have seen an outer band bring the first round of light rain. The biggest concern for the majority of the QCA is rain changing to a rain/snow/ice mix with snow falling on top of all of that later today. This will cause slick roads for most of the QCA Today. Timing for this system today has begun with light rain and some ice this morning. Some of it started as early as 8 AM this morning. Around noon we will begin to see the rain mix with snow, with a full transition to snow around 3 PM. After then, we will continue to see snow for the remainder of the evening and well into the day tomorrow. The snow looks to be wrapping up early Saturday morning. This forecast gets increasingly difficult as a lot of the models are still very greatly from each other, offering little agreement. As for snow totals, more models are begging to show totals near 2 inches here in the Quad Cities. For the most part the heavier amounts will be in Central Iowa, with lesser amounts to the South East. As for now the worst part of this slow moving system will remain in Western and Central Iowa, we will still be seeing a limited impact according to the National Weather Service's Winter Storm Impact Index. The main take away with this today is roads will likely become slick with snow falling on top of a wet, slushy, if not frozen road surfaces. Make sure to drive with caution today, take it slow, and leave extra distance for stopping.
	Davenport COVID-19 testing site will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day COVID-19 testing sites in Iowa will be closed on Monday, Jan. 18, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Those include one in Scott County — the drive-thru testing site located at NorthPark Mall in Davenport. The site, along with four others in the state, will reopen for testing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Individuals who wish to be tested at any site must first complete an online assessment at TestIowa.com and schedule an appointment. More information about Iowa COVID-19 testing sites is here.
	Davenport PE Teacher Goes Viral Internationally A Davenport PE coach started making videos to keep his students active during quarantine. Now, he’s gone viral internationally. Mic Siefert, the PE teacher at Madison Elementary School, began making exercise videos back in March, when the pandemic shut down schools. Now his YouTube Channel, PE with Mr. S , has nearly 3,000 subscribers. “This year, we went for Spring Break, and we got notification that we weren’t going to return so after I went through that initial shock and self-pity, I realized that my students and their families are going to be facing some very challenging situations. I knew I needed to up my game, so to speak, and find ways to engage students through new technology.” Then, this December, Siefert posted a Christmas-themed exercise challenge: On the First Day of Fitness . It wasn’t long after he posted the video that the views spiked to 35,000, and educators from overseas started calling. Siefert woke one morning to a voicemail from an Italian PE teacher in charge of
	One Night of Queen at Taxslayer Center rescheduled to July date The One Night with Queen performed by Gary Mullen and the Works tour stop at the TaxSlayer Center in Moline has been rescheduled for July 23, 2021. Tickets for the original March 18, 2020 date and subsequent March 26, 2021 date will be valid for the rescheduled show. Gary Mullen formed the band the Works in 2002 to pay tribute to Queen. Over the years, they have performed in the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, South Africa, and New Zealand to sell out audiences. One Night with Queen is a spectacular live concert that recreates the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of the legendary band Queen. Ticket prices are $49.50, $35.50, and $25.50 with a limited number of $69.50 also available. Tickets can be purchased online.
	3 rescued from morning house fire in Bettendorf Three people were rescued from a house fire early Thursday in Bettendorf.
	Iowa Workforce Development reports initial unemployment insurance claims decreased last week DES MOINES — The number of initial unemployment claims in Iowa filed Jan. 3-9, was 7,638, a decrease of 217 from last week’s adjusted numbers.
	VIDEO: Chicago's Shedd Aquarium Penguins First Field Trip of 2021 Continue reading…
	Work Begins on New Map for R.I. County Board Even before final census figures are known, Rock Island County has begun working on how to re-draw county board member districts. This week, the county board's Governance, Health, and Administration Committee held its first meeting on re-apportionment. Board Chair Richard Brunk says the committee looked at state laws and recent census estimates, and talked about the process it'll use. "I'm very confident that there will be a reduction in the number of county board members through this process. The only question is exactly what that number will be." Currently the county board has 25 members, each representing one district. Advocates of reducing its size have talked about 15 members, either from single-member districts or having multiple members elected from the same district. Brunk says it's important to pick the right number. "We want to make sure the board reflects the demographics of the county as much as possible. We want to make sure that the average person still has the ability to
	Crews respond to Bettendorf house fire early Thursday morning Firefighters are on the scene of a house fire in Bettendorf.
	4 rescued from house fire in Bettendorf At least four people were rescued from a house fire in Bettendorf off Riverview Lane Thursday morning, Jan. 14.
	Freezing rain moving northeast this morning From the National Weather Service at 6 a.m.:
	Freezing rain moving northeast this morning From the National Weather Service at 6 a.m.:
	200 Illinois guard troops will go to DC to aid inauguration Gov. J.B. Pritzker is sending about 200 members of the Illinois National Guard to Washington, D.C., to help with security at next week’s inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden.
	Iowa chief justice: In-person trials will resume in February Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen says the coronavirus pandemic forced the court system to enact two shutdowns of jury trials and institute remote hearings.
	Good Morning from WVIK News for Thursday, January 14, 2021
	John Deere bridging the gap between technology, agriculture at Consumer Electronics Show Many events throughout the pandemic have gone virtual and that includes the Consumer Electronics Show. While the latest phone and gaming systems are shown off, John Deere is in its third year of participating. Instead of showing off that type of technology, they explain how important agricultural technology is that works to help feed the world. This year's theme is "From the Ground Up." "Agriculture has to meet the challenge, like it has met the challenge up to this point, which is to continue to produce abundant food at an affordable price safely," said Than Hartsock, John Deere Director – Corn and Soy Production Systems. "Our technology is a component of what enables that growth." Because the show was virtual this year, they used virtual reality to bring the farm to the people taking them places they never could have gone before. "We actually give them the opportunity to go below the soil surface and essentially allow the tractor and the planter to plant right over top of them," Hartsock said. The virtual display helps bridge the gap between agriculture and technology. "We really get to start with the very basics relative to the equipment, to the seeds, why agriculture matters, where our food comes from," said Jenny Ose, John Deere Director – Marketing and Shared Services. More information about CES can be found here. More information on what John Deere is doing this year can be found here.
	Button, Button This is Roald Tweet on Rock Island. If you come for a visit to our Mississippi Valley and want to bring a souvenir back to the relatives in Potosi, Wisconsin, here's some advice. Avoid those cute ashtrays made in Taiwan that say, "Greetings from the Quad Cities," or the bumper stickers that say, "Support mental health or I'll kill you." Instead, take a walk along some of the more out-of-the-way stretches of our Mississippi River, where the current has deposited a stash of old clam shells. With any luck, you'll soon find one that resembles a Swiss cheese—with half-inch holes over the whole shell.
	Rick's Six: Wintry mix today, Q-C reaction to Trump impeachment, and Iowa game postponed by COVID-19
	Births for Thursday, Jan. 14, 2020 UNITYPOINT HEALTH-TRINITY MOLINE
Wednesday, January 13th, 2021
	'I am hopeful.': Illinois Governor JB Pritzker issues statement on impeachment of President Trump Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement following the second impeachment of President Trump late Wednesday evening: “For the first time in United States history, a sitting president has been impeached on two separate occasions by the House of Representatives – a testament to the resiliency of our Constitution, but an ugly stain on our nation’s history. Make no mistake: to hold accountable those who smear our democracy, who unleash violence and death upon the halls of Congress, who dance on the desks of duly elected public servants in the name of insurrection – and yes, those who incite it all from inside the world’s most powerful office – is the most patriotic thing we can do. We cannot rebuild without ridding ourselves of what’s rotten. We cannot hope to unify without upholding the ideals of justice, democracy and liberty that tie us together as one nation. Today, Republicans joined with Democrats to send that message. The events of Jan. 6, 2021 – and the weeks’, months’ and years’ worth of falsities and fantasies that led up to them – represented a culmination of Donald J. Trump’s longstanding efforts to channel hate and demagoguery into power. As a proud American, I have long feared the repercussions of these efforts, and the choice of the national Republican Party, to embrace them and its media ecosystem to amplify them. He has long posed a danger to our nation – and last week, the world watched in horror as his name was carried on flags – alongside the flag of our nation’s most infamous traitors, the Confederacy – in a siege on our Capitol. And I believe fully that we would be remiss to assume the threat of such efforts lies behind us. But today, amid sorrow, amid worry, amid the bruising impact of a pandemic on pace to soon take over 400,000 American lives: I am hopeful. By impeaching President Trump on the charge of incitement of insurrection, the House of Representatives has taken a necessary step toward holding accountable a president whose very hallmark has been the derision of our democracy. In the constant pursuit of our nation’s finest ideals, the promise of a more perfect union lives another day. Our work to secure it continues, and I urge the Senate to take up its duty immediately.”
	Baseball will stay in Clinton and Burlington The Lumberkings and the Bees will be joining the Prospect League.
	Bustos votes to impeach Donald Trump Today, U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos (IL-17) issued the following statement after voting in support of H.Res. 24, an article of impeachment charging President Trump with incitement of insurrection: "Last week, the world watched as the President of the United States used his sacred and powerful office to incite a vicious and violent attack on Congress and our very democracy. Today, I solemnly cast my vote to impeach him because, as a member of Congress, I swore an oath to protect our Constitution and defend our nation. The President’s actions last week resulted in mayhem and insurrection and cost the lives of at least five Americans. If a leader cannot or will not lead, then he must resign or be removed, and there is no doubt that the President’s actions have betrayed our great nation. I have called on the President to resign – he has remained. I have called on the Vice President to invoke the 25th Amendment – he has refused. The only action left to me is to vote to impeach, and so I cast my vote, knowing it is the sole action I can take in good conscience.We must move forward in unity, but we cannot do so without accountability and justice. We must work together in peace, but we cannot do so without acting in truth. As we begin to move past this dark time in our history, I remain proud that we have never let our nation falter and remain determined to ensure that democracy will continue to prevail."
	Davenport officer speaks after spring ambush, recognized by governor Three officers were guests at the governor's "Condition of the State" address on Tuesday.
	Quad City Community Foundation gives $100K grants to two area organizations The East Moline and United Township School Districts, and Humility Homes and Services are getting transformation grants to aid the communities.
	Amber Alert for Breasia Terrell expires, now a missing persons case Terrell was last seen at a Davenport apartment complex the night of July 9, 2020.
	Davenport officer speaks after spring ambush, recognized by governor Three officers were guests at the governor's "Condition of the State" address on Tuesday.
	Burlington Bees and Clinton LumberKings join Prospect League Two area baseball have found new homes to continue their sport traditions.
	Burlington Bees and Clinton LumberKings join Prospect League Two area baseball have found new homes to continue their sport traditions.
	Quad City Community Foundation gives $100K grants to two area organizations The East Moline and United Township School Districts, and Humility Homes and Services are getting transformation grants to aid the communities.
	Lottery numbers drawn Wednesday ILLINOIS LOTTERY
	Lottery numbers drawn Wednesday ILLINOIS LOTTERY
	DeWitt Opera House Theater halting showings The temporary shutdown puts a pause in the over 140-year-old theater's service.
	'It's been a lot of growth': Illinois cannabis cultivator hopes to see new dispensaries open in 2021 2020 brought a lot of firsts for Green Thumb Industries, like a completed expansion and the beginning of recreational marijuana sales in Illinois.

Friday, January 15th, 2021

Thursday, January 14th, 2021

Wednesday, January 13th, 2021