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

Thursday, October 21st, 2021
	Fire crew responds to early morning structure fire in Bettendorf It happened around 2:30 AM in the 2900 Block of Glenn Street.
	Rockridge School Board named in COVID class action lawsuit against 145 school districts Parents are taking legal action against COVID-related mandates for Illinois schools.
	Davenport school board candidate forum to be held Saturday The forum will be hosted by the Davenport Chapter of the NAACP Unit 4019 and Davenport LULAC, Friends of MLK.
	Rick's Six: Court order targets UAW strikers, frost on Friday, and Halloween decorating
	Linda Cook review: 'The Last Duel' is gripping 'Rashomon'-style drama There’s a lot to recommend about “The Last Duel.” First, it’s based on a true story. Author Eric Jager wrote about it in his 2004 book, “The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France.” Director Ridley Scott (“Gladiator”) helms this tale of two knights and a duel to the death after a terrible accusation. The event really was the last government-sanctioned trial by combat toward the end of the 14th Century in France. In “Rashomon” style, the film tells the story of what led up to the duel in three chapters from three different points of view, with the last from the perspective of the truth. Sir Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon), is a coarse knight, while his friend is the educated Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver.) Both serve Pierre d’Alencon (Ben Affleck), who favors Jacques. Jean marries Marguerite (Jodie Comer, ”Free Guy”), the daughter of a landowner with a bad reputation. Marguerite, more of a possession than a wife, is supposed to give Jean an heir. She is looked down upon by her mother-in-law (Harriet Walter in a wonderful Mrs. Danvers-esque role.) After Jacques discovers the beauty and intelligence of Marguerite, he cannot stop thinking about her. When Jean returns home one day, Marguerite accuses Jacques of a terrible act, and the former friends end up in a duel to the death. The first part is told the way Jean sees it, the second from Jacques’ point of view and the third and truthful chapter from Marguerite’s perspective. Damon and Affleck wrote the script with Nicole Holofcener. The movie contains action, yes, but it’s not an action movie. This is grownup stuff. While “Halloween Kills” bursts forth from neighboring screens, “Last Duel” also contains quite a bit of graphic bloodshed, as well as a sexual assault scene. For grownups, it’s a chance to see a solid, often-disturbing drama that’s well-acted by an entertaining ensemble. It is a tale of misogyny set against the background of a plague … draw your own conclusions as to its modern-day parallels. 3 stars Rated: R for foul language, sexual situations, gore and graphic violence. At Cinemark, Davenport; Regal, Moline; and Palms 10, Muscatine.
	Births for Thursday, Oct. 21, 2023 UNITYPOINT HEALTH-TRINITY MOLINE
	Trunk-or-treat at the library! Little ghosts and goblins are invited to get into the "spirit" of the spooky season as they trunk-or-treat at the Davenport Public Library Fairmount location Wednesday. Local community organizations, city departments and library partners will be handing out Halloween goodies in this safe environment. Don't forget to dress up in your costumes! Trunk-or-Treat at the Davenport Library is Wednesday, October 27, 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Fairmount Library, located at 3000 North Fairmount Street, Davenport. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here or call the library at (563) 326-7832.
Wednesday, October 20th, 2021
	Moline PD to hold Perscription Drug Take Back Day event on October 23 This Saturday, you can take any unwanted, expired, or unused prescription medications to the Moline Police Department.
	Rockridge School Board named in COVID class action lawsuit Parents are taking legal action against mask mandates for Illinois schools.
	Lottery numbers drawn Wednesday ILLINOIS LOTTERY
	Murder suspect pleads not guilty in connection with September shooting death A 27-year-old Davenport man has pleaded not guilty in connection with a shooting death Sept. 5. In court documents filed Monday, Demarco Gray Jr. has pleaded not guilty and demands a speedy trial. He faces charges of first-degree murder and control of a firearm by a felon, both felonies. Shortly after 1 p.m. Sept. 5, Davenport Police responded to the 2200 block of north Nevada Avenue after a report of shots fired and found a man with life-threatening gunshot wounds, according to a news release from Davenport Police. Jeremiah Martinez-Brown, 24, was transported to Genesis Medical Center, where he died from his injuries. “Initial investigation indicates this was not a random act of violence,” the release says. An ambulance left the area near the intersection of Nevada Avenue and Lombard Street shortly after 1:30 p.m., when police confirmed the severity of the person’s injuries. Officers set up crime-scene tape to block part of the 2200 block of Nevada Avenue. Officers talked with neighbors who gathered to watch the scene. Grau is being held on $500,000 cash-only in Scott County Jail..
	Clinton Community College breaks ground on new Career and Technical Center Construction on the Center has been ongoing for three weeks and it is expected to open in fall 2022.
	Rock Island County reports 1 death, 73 new COVID-19 cases The average age of newly infected patients is 40, according to the health department.
	Ironman, ESPY winner, speaks at North Scott Junior High Nikic, 21, was the recipient of the Jimmy V award at the 2021 ESPYs.
	Iowa reports over 6,900 new COVID-19 cases, 100 deaths over 7 days The seven-day positivity rate was 8%, down from 8.7% reported a week ago.
	Moline couple find new place to live after fire destroys their duplex Jessica Houdyshell and Philip Tate are a couple who have been trying to rebuild their lives for a while now. Houdyshell just got out of prison in August for a nonviolent, non-drug-related crime and moved into a duplex in Moline with Tate, but just a few weeks after moving in, the duplex burned down, ruining nearly everything they had. "All of it had mold, mildew and smoke damage and water damage," said Houdyshell. On top of that, Houdyshell is pregnant, and Tate suffers from seizures, making an already challenging situation harder. "He could have seizures standing up, sitting. It don't matter," said Houdyshell. "I have to be at home with him. He needs a caregiver." Fortunately, the couple got some help finding new housing through landlords the Salvation Army had relationships with. "Salvation Army, the director from Salvation Army, they know each other," Houdyshell said of her new landlord and the Salvation Army director. "So they work with each other, so it's a good thing." Houdyshell and Tate have also been able to get some new possessions, but they're still working on getting more. However, even though they are still in need, they are thankful for all the help they have received. "I have gotten a couch, loveseats, some dishes, some clothes," Houdyshell said. "We're just grateful for anything because we have gotten help with dishes, people reaching out to us praying and that have been supportive." But along with working on acquiring additional new belongings, Houdyshell says she is working on getting past her fear of another fire happening at her new home. "I still have some anxiety," Houdyshell said. "I have this phobia, like, is this going to happen again? How do we get out of the apartment? So it's still going through that. I've been battling a lot of that." Houdyshell says some items they are still in need of include a bed and winter clothing, and they are hopeful their lives will continue to improve.
	Famous athlete brings motivation and inspiration to local students Chris Nikic — the first person with Downs syndrome to ever finish the Ironman Triathlon — visited students at North Scott Junior High to talk about inspiration, diversity, acceptance, and achieving goals. He discussed his "1% Better" strategy — the method he uses to train and prepare for his athletic endeavors. "Two years ago I was just a kid with Downs syndrome — that changed with a single mindset — to get one percent better every day," Nikic said. That single change in mindset changed the course of his future in a matter of just two years. Now, he wants to share this opportunity with young people across the country — including students in Eldridge. Students reflected on what they learned from his speech. "I thought he was a great role model to anyone down about anything and doubting themselves." a seventh- grade student at North Scott Junior High said. Nikic holds a Guinness World Record and finished the Boston Marathon. Now he plans to continue his athletic training — all while pursuing his passion for public speaking. With more than 100,000 social media followers, Nikic has become renowned for his work both on and off the track. "It's very memorable to have a celebrity come to school - a once-in-a-lifetime experience." an eighth-grader at North Scott Junior High School said.
	Rock Falls firefighters battle 2 structure fires in same day No one was injured, but a dog died in one of the fires.
	Farmers worry of equipment shortage from John Deere strike As the strike against John Deere continues, farmers who rely on Deere for equipment worry about slowed production of needed parts.
	WANTED: Have you seen these fugitives? It’s a Local 4 News exclusive. You can get an elevated reward for information on this week’s cases. Chaz Patty, 28, 5-feet-11 inches tall, 199 pounds, black hair, brown eyes. He is wanted by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office for escape on a theft charge and sex offender registration violation. He also has three Davenport Police Department warrants for theft, driving suspended and interference with official acts. Corey Still, 47, 5-feet-8 inches tall, 188 pounds, brown hair, blue eyes. He is wanted by the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office for sex offender registration violation. You have a week to contact police for an elevated reward. Call the tip line at 309-762-9500. All tips are anonymous.
	Reynolds hopes rule changes will push jobless back to work Unemployed Iowans would be required to meet weekly with state case managers, conduct twice as many weekly work searches and undergo audits to prove they’re actively looking for work.
	Clinton Community College holds groundbreaking for new career and technical education center Eastern Iowa Community Colleges’ (EICC) leaders, local officials and community members on Wednesday celebrated the official groundbreaking of Clinton Community College’s new Career and Technical Education Center. Funding for the modern, 26,700-square-foot facility was made possible earlier this year thanks to strong support of district voters, with more than 70 percent voting in favor of a $40-million bond referendum to expand career and technical training opportunities across EICC’s service area, according to a college release. “After several years of planning and taking our message to the voters, it feels great to see this project underway,” said Brian Kelly, Clinton Community College president. “Everyone is excited to see the progress being made; this project has energized the entire community." The new center will allow for increased services for all EICC students, as well as those in the college’s high school Career Academies. Career Academies provide high school students the opportunity to receive hands-on career training, and college-level credits, while still in high school. By providing students with the training needed to enter high-demand, skilled trades at no charge, the academies especially answer a need for those students who might not normally continue their education past high school. Clinton Community College expects to open the new center in fall 2022. The planned academies include: AgricultureAutomotive TechnologyConstruction TechnologyCulinaryEngineering TechnologyEducationHealthcareInformation TechnologyWelding Technology "This truly is a wonderful day,” said Clinton Mayor Scott Maddasion. “The commitment of students from each of our surrounding school districts will be an important piece of introducing our young people to the trades, manufacturing, culinary and many more career paths that they have available to them.” “Our goal is to keep people here in our community by helping them understand what job opportunities are available,” said Erin M. Cole, president/CEO of the Clinton Regional Development Corporation. “Our collective ability to offer pre-employment and on-the-job training, plus internships and apprenticeships to local students is key to our future economic success. This new CCC Career and Technical Education Center is a priceless resource for accomplishing our goal.” The center will include multi-purpose laboratories, classrooms, a student commons/lobby area and offices for instructors. Studio 483 Architects, an architectural firm with offices in Rock Island and Davenport, provided design services. Construction of the facility is scheduled to be completed by fall 2022. For more information, and to view floor plans and artist’s renderings of the Career and Technical Education Center, visit eicc.edu/groundbreaking.
	Rock Island County Health Department employees speak out after being suspended for refusing vaccine The employees say instead they would like to participate in weekly testing
	Rock Island police chief to retire at the end of the month Rock Island Chief of Police Jeffrey R. VenHuizen has announced his retirement from the Rock Island Police Department effective Oct. 31, 2021. This will mark the culmination of the chief’s 28 ½-year career with the city. Chief VenHuizen has served as police chief since Dec. 10, 2012, overseeing the department of 110 employees. VenHuizen began his career with the Rock Island Police on Feb. 1, 1993. He has served as a patrol officer, K-9 Officer, Field Training Officer, Emergency Response Team member, Patrol Sergeant, Narcotics / Vice Sergeant, Agent to the Office of Professional Standards, Patrol Lieutenant, Commander of the Administrative Technical Services Division, and Deputy Chief of Police, according to a Wednesday release. VenHuizen holds a bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement Administration from Western Illinois University in Macomb, and is a graduate of Northwestern University School of Police Staff & Command in Evanston, and the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He serves as the president of the Quad City Councils of Chiefs of Police. As Chief of Police, VenHuizen has implemented or overseen several major projects during his tenure, including: Construction of a $20-million police station at 1212 5th Ave., opening in 2015;Upgrading the antiquated VHF / UHF radio system to an 800Mhz P-25 compliant system;Implementing the first body-worn camera system of a large agency in the Quad Cities;Achieving department accreditation through the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program Family and friends gather in front of the Rock Island Police Department as part of a peaceful protest for DeShawn Tatum. (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) VenHuizen also oversaw the re-organization of the department, which included creation of a new division within the Rock Island Police Department -- the Tactical Operations Division whose focus is the investigation of violent / gun crimes. "I am proud to say that during my tenure as Chief of Police, through community partnerships and pro-active policing strategies, the City of Rock Island achieved unprecedented all-time lows in both overall and violent crime, never having risen above crime statistics from 2011," he said in Wednesday's release. "Our incredible achievements and successes in reducing crime and making Rock Island a safer community would not have been possible if we did not work with the citizens to enforce laws, solve problems, build partnerships, and protect individual rights," the chief said. "We hold in great regard the trust our community bestows upon us and take personal responsibility in nurturing and promoting that trust.” "The decision to retire has not been easy or made in haste," VenHuizen said. "I committed at the beginning of 2021 to begin exploring future opportunities beyond the Rock Island Police Department. While the Police Department is re-building and faces many manpower challenges, there has never been a more diverse, better educated, or well-trained police department whose members are prepared to lead this department into the future.” “I want to thank the City of Rock Island and its citizens for their trust and support in allowing me to serve as a Rock Island Police Officer, with the last 8 ½ years as its Chief of Police," he said. "I pray that I have served you well. Most of all, I would like to thank all the men and women of the Rock Island Police Department for their support, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to duty. "As Chief of Police, I set high expectations and standards for the employees serving under my tenure. Time and again, the Officers of the Rock Island Police Department rose to meet every expectation or challenge; and they have done so with courage, steadfast determination, and integrity," he added. "They are quite simply, some of the finest men and women serving in law enforcement today and each of them is owed a debt of gratitude for their service. I am proud to have served as a Rock Island Police Officer and prouder still to have led this department as its Chief of Police.” Rock Island city manager Randy Tweet said: “His advice and support were invaluable to me during my tenure as City Manager. I’d like to thank the Chief for his nearly three-decade commitment to the City and the citizens of Rock Island. He will be missed.” Mayor Mike Thoms stated: “Chief VenHuizen has been an outstanding Police Officer and Police Chief for almost 29 years. He is well respected throughout the law enforcement community and throughout the City of Rock Island. We could not have asked for anyone better to represent the City. "His guidance and open-mindedness in working with City staff has been invaluable. Thank you, my friend, you will be missed," the mayor said. There will be a reception on Friday, Oct. 29 , from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Rock Island Police Department Community Room, 1212 5th Ave.
	MLB teams must provide housing for minor league players starting next year The Quad Cities River Bandits will be among the teams providing housing for minor league players next season under MLB's new rule.
	Police: Suspect turned in false report of fire, kicked officer early Tuesday A 39-year-old Moline woman is being held on $20,000 bond in Rock Island County Jail after police say she turned in a false report of a fire and kicked an officer when she was arrested. The Rock Island County State’s Attorney’s Office has charged Pamela Fulton with aggravated battery to a police officer, a Class 2 felony, and disorderly conduct, a Class 4 felony, court records say. Shortly before 3:15 a.m. Tuesday, Moline Police and Moline Fire crews responded to the 800 block of 17th Street for a fire alarm in a building owned by the Moline Housing Authority, according to Moline Police. When responders arrived to the multi-family high-rise brick building, police didn’t find any signs of smoke or fire. Moline firefighters also arrived to ensure the building was safe and no active fire was detected, police told Local 4 News. Officers discovered that a suspect had intentionally pulled a fire alarm on the fifth floor of the building, “allegedly knowing there was no fire or emergency,” police say. Officers found Fulton a block away from the scene. She was arrested for disorderly conduct in connection with the false report. During the arrest, Ford began to fight officers, and kicked one officer in the groin, according to police. Fulton’s preliminary hearing is set for Nov. 19 in Rock Island County Court.
	Deere wins temporary injunction against striking union workers in Davenport Deere and Company won a temporary injunction Wednesday against striking union workers at its Davenport Works plant. Deere filed for the injunction in Iowa District Court for Scott County, against the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America, Local 281; its president Travis Hanrahan, and all other relevant parties involved in the strike activities. The decision, from Chief District Judge Marlita Greve, ordered that the union and its members are prohibited from: trespassing on Deere’s property at Davenport Works or the driveways leading to Davenport Works from the public roads;obstructing the ways of ingress and egress to and from Deere premises, bodily or through the use of physical objects or in any other way;picketing, loitering, or congregating near the contractor gate entrance;engaging in unlawful activities including unlawful mass picketing and/or parading, verbal and physical harassment, intimidation, vandalism, blocking, or impeding human and vehicular traffic to and from Davenport Works, and any other activity resulting in the infringement of company rights and disruption of business operations;damaging, obstruction or otherwise making unusable or unsafe any part of Deere's facility;damaging the vehicles or property of Deere's guests, agents, employees, or contractors, or threatening damage to the vehicles or property;threatening or harassing any non-striking employees, drivers, vendors or customers who are lawfully conducting business with Deere;picketing, loitering, or congregating at or near any entrance to or exit from the property in numbers larger than four;advising, encouraging, or participating in any of the above-mentioned acts;committing any other unlawful or disruptive acts this Court deems appropriate for injunctive relief. The judge's order also states: The Union shall designate a responsible person as the captain who shall at all times be present at the picket line and who shall control the conduct of all pickets and limit the number of picketers to no more than four (4) peaceful picketers at each gate (two on each side).The Union shall not start fires, bring wood or other debris, material or fuel, whether or not in barrels, use chairs or other similar items, and shall obey instructions of law enforcement and police officers. The Union shall, prior to leaving a picket site, police and remove any and all debris.The Union and its members shall be advised a violation of this injunction may result in the Union or any member being found in contempt of court for violating this order and could result in jail time up to six months and/or a fine of up to $500. Deere spokeswoman Jen Hartmann said Wednesday following the ruling: “Deere & Co. was granted an order for temporary injunction to maintain a safe environment for all our employees and contractors – including those reporting to work and those exercising their right to strike. This temporary injunction was put in place to provide safe entry and exit to the John Deere Davenport Works facility.” The order will not affect ongoing contract talks, Hartmann added. "We are fully committed to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with the UAW," she said, noting the injunction also does not impact other Deere facilities. Last Deere contract expired Oct. 1 The collective bargaining agreement between Deere and the UAW (representing about 10,000 employees) expired on Oct. 1, 2021. Deere and representatives of the Union have been engaged in negotiations to renew the Union’s contract, but they have been unable to agree to a new contract. Deere's motion for temporary injunction said that union members "have trespassed and have engaged in mass picketing thereby blocking ingress and egress to parking lots and plant entrances. Union members have prevented or attempted to prevent or hinder non-striking employees, customers and/or suppliers from entering or exiting Davenport Works." "They have screamed through megaphones and other audible enhancing devices, paraded in the public road up leading to Davenport Works with banners and signs, impeded customers or contractors from attempting to enter and leave Davenport Works and have otherwise blocked the free flow of traffic on the public highways and/or into and out of Davenport Works," the company petition said. "They have committed acts of verbal and physical harassment, intimidation, mass picketing and other direct and indirect forms of intimidating acts and threaten to continue these acts. Deere’s non-striking employees, vendors and customers have been unable to safely enter and exit Davenport Works without fear of blocking or damage to themselves or others, including to their persons or property." The Union members did not have authorization, license or permission to enter or block access to Deere’s property for the purposes described above, or for any other reason, and do not currently have authorization, license or permission to engage in the acts described above to the detriment of Deere’s rights, the petition says. Deere has attempted to resolve the Union members’ continued unlawful acts through non-judicial means, including issuing cease-and-desist demands to the Union and its members, and verbally asking Union members to remove themselves from Deere’s property and neutral gates and to refrain from committing unlawful acts, the petition says, noting the company has also contacted law enforcement. "Despite these efforts, the Union members’ unlawful acts continue unabated, and the Union members refuse to cease these acts absent a court order," the company attorney, Mikkie R. Schiltz (of Lane & Waterman), wrote. "Having exhausted all available options, application to this Court for injunctive relief is appropriate. Deere is not seeking injunctive relief against non-disruptive and peaceful Union strike picketers," the petition says, noting Deere "has suffered and will continue to suffer substantial and irreparable injury by preventing Deere from lawfully managing, controlling and operating its business." "The injuries to Deere outweigh the relative hardship to the Union and its members if they are enjoined from trespassing on Deere’s private property or otherwise engaging in unlawful acts in violation of Deere’s rights," the petition says. This case shall remain open on the docket of the Court (in the Seventh Judicial District of Iowa) until such time as the Union and Deere conclude their bargaining, at which time Deere shall cause this case to be dismissed, the order says. You can read the all relevant legal documents (including attachments) here: 1 2 3 4 5.
	Public health officials report four more COVID-19 deaths in the Quad-Cities COVID-19 claimed the lives of four more people in the Quad-Cities as public health officials in Iowa and Rock Island County provided updates Wednesday
	Knights of Columbus hosts civic award night The Rock Island Knights of Columbus is hosting its civic award night, after the pandemic canceled it last year. Rock Island fire chief Jeff Yerkey and Rock Island deputy police chief Rich Landi dropped by Local 4 to talk about the event. We provided more information about the annual civic awards for you online at OurQuadCities.com.
	Silvis City Hall closed after three staffers test positive for COVID-19 The city is continuing to process requests online or by phone.
	World record holder and Special Olympics champion delivers inspirational message Inspiring kids in the community to better themselves one percent at a time, the first-ever man with Down Syndrome to complete the Ironman Triathlon, Chris Nikic visited students at North Scott Junior High School Wednesday to share his story. Nikic adopted what he calls the one percent strategy for working toward his goals. This habit-based lifestyle focuses on improving yourself just a little bit, about one percent, each day for a year, giving people a realistic approach to making real progress. In addition to being an official Ironman athlete and holding a Guiness world record, Nikic finished the Boston marathon in 6 hours and continues to pursue his passion for public speaking.
	Deere & Co. granted temporary injunction against striking Davenport union workers Brian Rothenberg, a spokesman for UAW, told TV6 in an email that “We as a policy do not comment on pending legal matters.”
	Medical tattooing can change post-mastectomy life For some facing life after breast cancer surgery, a tattoo can be a tool to help women with mastectomy trauma. Medical tattooing is not only covering the surgical scars of cancer survivors, but changing lives. Women have several options following a mastectomy. Some choose to go flat, others get implants, some have traditional breast reconstruction surgery and some undergo areola tattooing. But there is one unique option that is a bit more colorful and memorable than others, mastectomy tattoos. A mastectomy tattoo is designed for when surgeons cannot spare the nipple during a mastectomy. They can often reconstruct breasts, if the patient desires, but this allows for a more sentimental and vivid alternative. Recovering from both breast cancer and a mastectomy is no doubt a painful process, butonce healed, this is a popular option to cover or highlight battle scars with art that is deeply personal.
	LeClaire Halloween Events Include Something Spooky for Everyone Continue reading…
	Drug take-back events being held Oct. 23 It's a safe and convenient way to dispose of unused or unwanted prescription medicines.
	Harvest festival to support River Bend Food Bank Join the BHS Student Council for Harvest Fest Friday to benefit River Bend Food Bank. Admission is free, with tickets for games and activities available for purchase. Enjoy baked goods, carnival games, bounce house, pumpkin painting, crafts and more. The BHS Harvest Fest is Friday, October 29 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the Bettendorf High School gym, located at 3333 18th Street, Bettendorf. All proceeds benefit the Student Hunger Drive for the River Bend Food Bank.
	Whiteside Co. Health Dept. to pause Wednesday Walk-in immunization clinics It's in response to the current high demand for immunizations with limited supply.
	Moline Police to take part in Saturday National Prescription Drug Take Back Day The Moline Police Department has partnered with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and will be a collection site for the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the department, 1640 6th Ave., Moline. If residents have any unwanted, expired or unused prescription medications, just pull up to the front of the Moline Police Department this Saturday and drop them off. Officers will be accepting any pills or patches. They will NOT accept any liquids, inhalers, sharps or needles. "The more we can get people to monitor, secure and properly dispose of the medications, the more we can save lives through less accessibility of those that can intentionally or unintentionally abuse or misuse them," a Wednesday department release says. This is a national program that enlists hundreds of first responders and volunteers who will be at designated locations, encouraging citizens to dispose of unused or expired medications. Officers won’t ask for identification or ask any questions regarding the prescriptions being dropped off, the release said. Medicines flushed or poured down the drain end up in waterways, affecting drinking water. Medications thrown away in the trash will still make it to a landfill and seep through the soil and into ground water. There is also a danger of people or pets finding medications in the trash. The prescription medications will later be counted for statistical purposes and destroyed at a facility in an environmentally safe manner, the MPD said. "Prescription medicines are a toxic waste and pose a danger to people, pets and the environment if they are not disposed of properly," the release said. In April 2021, the last National Take Back Day resulted in 4,425 law enforcement agencies participating, and 839,543 pounds of medications collected (equal to 420 tons). For more information, visit takebackday.dea.gov.
	Clinton Community breaks ground on new career training center The facility, once completed in 2022, will give high schoolers the opportunity to earn college credit at no cost in several career training programs.
	Man facing arson charge in connection with East Moline fire Police responded to the fire early Wednesday.
	Whiteside County will pause Wednesday walk-in immunizations The Whiteside County Health Department will be pausing walk-in immunizations on Wednesdays. Whiteside County residents needing immunizations will be able to make an appointment on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The county is taking this step in response to the current high demand for immunizations, limited supply, and recent shipping delays, the department said in a Wednesday release. "Our hope is that this will help provide a more uniform experience for residents and reduce wait times which have been longer than normal on Wednesdays." Individuals interested in immunizations can call 815-626-2230 and choose option 4 to schedule an appointment on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.
	Arrest made in East Moline arson overnight Wednesday East Moline police on Wednesday arrested a 22-year-old man for setting a fire. On Wednesday at approximately 12:27 a.m., officers responded to 1511 12th Avenue, East Moline, for a structure fire. The East Moline Fire Department extinguished the fire. While on scene, it was determined the fire was caused using an accelerant and was investigated as an arson. East Moline Police investigated the incident and arrested Sean Gaylord, 22, for arson. Charges were filed with the Rock Island County States Attorney’s Office for Residential Arson being a class 1 felony. Gaylord is being held at the Rock Island County Jail on $75,000 bond (10 percent required for release). No one was in the residence at the time of the fire.
	Trick-or-treat safety Little monsters, princesses and superheroes will soon be knocking on your door for Halloween treats, and the Galesburg Police Department has some safety tips to keep this a very happy Halloween. Always accompany children trick-or-treatingLook both ways before crossing the streetAlways be aware of your surroundingsRemind children to walk, not run, from house to houseInspect all candy before consumingUse sidewalks when possibleUse flashlights and glow sticks for visibilityStay in groupsDecorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickersIf driving, slow down and be especially alert for pedestrians in residential neighborhoods The Galesburg Police Department is hosting a trick-or-treat stop in the lobby of the Public Safety Building, 150 South Broad Street in Galesburg, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 31. Kids are encouraged to stop by to trick-or-treat and visit with Police Department staff.
	QC Chamber unveils new Leadership QC program, starting in January If you or your employer has an extra $2,500 laying around, you can take part in a new Quad Cities Chamber program on leadership. Leadership QC is a program for experienced community leaders and innovative thinkers who want to enhance their individual leadership skills, according to the chamber. Leadership QC participants will work collectively to develop business-oriented solutions to challenges that impact our region’s workforce. QC Chamber president/CEO Paul Rumler discusses Leadership QC on a video at https://quadcitieschamber.com/talent/leadership-qc. Applications are now being accepted through Nov. 15 for this 9-month leadership program, which will meet once a month starting in January (4th Thursday of the month from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). “Leadership QC will bring together a diverse group of our region’s leaders, that maybe wouldn’t normally work together or collaborate, to discuss and resolve issues that affect all of us that live and work in the community,” said Emily Codling, the Chamber’s Talent Manager. Emily Codling -- seen at the Quad Cities Chamber Davenport office -- is the chamber's new talent manager, who administers Scott County's new Home Base Iowa program (photo by Jonathan Turner). “There will be guest speakers, guided discussions and actionable goal setting, all to grow their skills as leaders in their business or organization and to increase their commitment to the place we all call home,” she said. What you can expect: Meet over nine months for a full day each month.Define, refine and enhance leadership skills through practical application.Develop a greater understanding of issues most important to our region.Work together to create solutions and create the positive change needed to improve our region’s quality of life.Teach, learn and demonstrate corporate social responsibility.Build relationships with other area leaders from multiple sectors from throughout our six-county region.Develop a network of diverse leaders who pay it forward and give back to leaders who come after them. Leadership QC is ideal for established professionals with leadership skills and track record of community involvement that can commit to engaging in the program over nine months. “A community with a common goal is rooted in principles, beliefs and attitudes that align to support the execution of the common goal,” according to the Leadership QC website. “In the Quad Cities region, we aspire to create a community where all members can grow, thrive and experience prosperity in a way that is meaningful to them. “We also hope to inspire a generation of community servants and leaders who will leave an indelible mark on this community that will be experienced by generations to come,” the site says. This program is limited to 25 participants and will be led by LaDrina Wilson of IMAN Consulting in partnership with the Quad Cities Chamber. The tuition cost is $2,500. There are a limited number of need-based scholarships available. Applicants may be asked to provide additional information to demonstrate need -- scholarship request considerations are reviewed after the applicant has been accepted into the program. If selected, participant employers will be required to agree to the employee’s time required to participate in the program. Full participation is necessary for the success of the program. If you will be unable to commit to the time necessary, please do not apply. Chamber membership is not a requirement for participation in the program. For more information and to apply, visit quadcitieschamber.com.
	Energy bill program assists during winter heating season Before you know it, snow will be falling and temperatures will be dropping here in the QCA, and that can mean higher heating bills. But what if you can't afford the costs of keeping your home warm? A federally-funded program is available to help during the winter heating season, LIHEAP, or the low-income home energy assistance program. LIHEAP helps qualified low-income families pay winter heating bills. States receive and administer funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, so programs vary by state. “Winters can add a financial strain for our customers who struggle to pay their energy bills,” Mike Gehringer, vice president of customer operations for MidAmerican, said. “We encourage any customer with financial challenges to contact their local community action agency to find out if they are eligible for assistance.” Illinois LIHEAPTo be eligible for LIHEAP in Illinois, the total household income must be at or below 200% of 2021 federal poverty guidelines. For example, a single-person household is eligible with an annual gross income at or below $25,760, and a family of four is eligible with an annual gross income at or below $53,000. Customers should apply as soon as possible for LIHEAP to ensure they receive the assistance they need. The program will accept applications through May 31, 2022. Illinois residents in Rock Island, Mercer and Henry counties can contact Project NOW, Inc. at (309) 793-6391. Residents can also call the state’s LIHEAP hotline at 877-411-WARM (9276). Iowa LIHEAPCommunity action agencies in Iowa review applications and administer grant funds. Household income and size, type of primary heating fuel, housing type and other factors are considered. To be eligible for LIHEAP in Iowa, the total household income must be at or below 200% of 2021 federal poverty guidelines. For example, a single-person household is eligible with an annual gross income at or below $25,760. A family of four is eligible with an annual gross income at or below $53,000. The program began taking applications October 1 for those 60 years old or older, and will accept applications starting November 1 for all others. The program accepts applications through April 30, 2022. Eligible customers who need help with energy bills should apply for LIHEAP at a local community action agency. The Iowa Department of Human Rights has additional information about the program and eligibility requirements.
	Boil Order lifted in Prophetstown Order was lifted around 1:11 p.m. Wednesday afternoon.
	Hiring Now \| Connecting employers with job seekers in the Quad Cities area Whether you're an employer or job-seeker, this is the place to start to get connected.
	Virtual Tour: Bettendorf's Devil's Glen Park The historical, hilly forest park makes for a great hike.
	Rock Island County Board member Angie Normoyle seeks to succeed Bustos in Congress Educator and Rock Island County Board member Angie Normoyle today announced her campaign for U.S. Congress from the proposed Central and Northwest Illinois-based 17th District. The seat is currently held by retiring U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-Moline). Normoyle was elected to the Rock Island County Board in 2018 and served on the Moline-Coal Valley School Board from 2007 - 2011. Normoyle was raised outside of Rockford in Roscoe, Ill., and graduated from Augustana College, where she met her husband Don. After receiving her PhD in Communications from Northwestern University, Normoyle and her husband moved to Moline to raise their three children. Normoyle has taught Communication Studies at Augustana since 2002. “When I finished college, I was sure that with hard work, I could get a good job, buy a home, and eventually raise a family in my community," she said in a Wednesday campaign release. "But today, many of my students tell me that those dreams are out of reach. The skyrocketing costs of education, health care, child care and housing are crushing the next generation. In Congress, I’ll work to make sure everyone has a fair shot at the American Dream that my family and community made possible for me.” Angie Normoyle, a former Moline-Coal Valley school board member and Rock Island County board member since 2018, announced her candidacy for Congress on Wednesday, Oct. 20. Normoyle’s great-grandmother Bessie Buckles worked at a Delco plant that made parts for General Motors. Each morning, she lined up with other workers, waiting to find out if there was enough work for her that day or if she’d be sent home with no work and no pay. Her daughter and son-in-law, Angie’s grandparents, also worked at a GM plant, but as a UAW member whose contract guaranteed their hours and benefits, and allowed them a secure retirement. “I want to serve in Congress to help more people fulfill the dream my great-grandmother had: that with hard work, you will have the opportunity to earn a good living, raise a family and retire with dignity – and you’ll be able to do it right here in Northwest Illinois," Normoyle said in the release. Normoyle, a Democrat, is currently the only candidate running from the central or southern portions of the proposed district, according to her release. Charlie Helmick and Esther Joy King are seeking the Republican nomination to run in the Nov. 8, 2022 general election. You can read more about Normoyle at www.normoyleforcongress.com.
	After 14 months, Galesburg completes a $3.5M reconstruction of South Seminary St. After more than a year of construction, South Seminary Street in Galesburg (between Berrien Street to Fifth Street) is now open to traffic. The work on this $3.5-million road reconstruction project began Aug. 14, 2020, and was completed by Brandt Construction. The work included removing and replacing all the existing pavement with new concrete pavement, as well as concrete sidewalk, curb and gutter, driveway approach pavement, and storm sewer, according to a city release Wednesday. This project also included replacing the existing cast iron water main with a new PVC water main as well as replacing any remaining lead water service lines within the project limits. Workers paving the north section of South Seminary Street. The contractor, Brandt Construction, is continuing to finish landscaping and other items, but the roadway work is complete and the street is open to traffic. Of the total $3.5 million cost, 60% of the roadway work was funded by Federal Highway Funds and the balance was from State Rebuild and local funds. The water main work was funded entirely by City of Galesburg water funds.
	Writers in upper Midwest invited to submit for second year of MWC Foster-Stahl Chapbook MWC Press, the press imprint of the Rock Island-based Midwest Writing Center, is now accepting submissions for the second year of The Foster-Stahl Chapbook Series, which looks to publish outstanding short collections of poetry, prose (fiction or nonfiction), or hybrid work from poets and writers living in the upper Midwest region. The contest is named in memory of two important figures in MWC’s history, whose lasting contributions to the center have made this series possible: Mary Foster (1937-2019), a long-time educator and member of the MWC Board of Directors, as well as a founding member of MWC’s Legacy Society.Richard “Dick” Stahl (1939-2020), a teacher and poet who published three collections (including Bluffing and Mr. Farnam’s Guests), and served as the inaugural Quad Cities Poet Laureate in 2001-2003. All submitted manuscripts will be reviewed and selected by a group of writers/editors affiliated with MWC. Authors of selected manuscripts will receive a publishing contract with MWC Press, a $300 publication fee, 20 copies of the finished chapbook, and an invitation to a reading in the Quad Cities (either in a virtual format, or an in-person reading, if possible, with MWC will covering travel expenses). MWC is committed to publishing at least one chapbook in 2022, but reserves the right to select more than one manuscript for publication. The series aims to publish at least one chapbook every year. The submission period will run through Dec. 31st, 2021, and anyone in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, and Ohio is eligible to submit, to midwestwritingcenter@gmail.com. Submissions will be accepted via email and snail mail. Full submission details can be found on www.mwcqc.org/foster-stahl-chapbook-series/. The submission fee is proof of purchase of 1 (one) MWC Press chapbook ($10) from mwcqc.org/books. The MWC is a member of Council of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP) and adheres to its Code of Ethics.
	Virtual Tour: Bettendorf's Devil's Glen Park The historical, hilly, forested park in Bettendorf makes for a great hike.
	Best Halloween displays in QCA? When it comes to Halloween decorating, do you dare to scare? Is your neighbor's house a spooky nightmare on your street? Is your front yard a grave situation for trick-or-treaters? Whether it's because of lively light displays, ghoulish ghosts, wacky witches or magnificent mummies, OurQuadCities.com wants to know who has the best Halloween displays in the QCA! If you or someone you know has what it takes to be one of the best QCA Halloween displays, snap a photo or video and send it to us. Send your name, address of the display, photos or video and a good callback number here, and your submission could be featured on air with other hauntingly great Halloween displays around the QCA!
	Syrian-American funk and soul band to perform tonight and Thursday in Davenport shows The latest visiting artist from Quad City Arts boasts "Syrian Heart. Midwest Soul."Bassel & The Supernaturals tells the story of Bassel Almadani's experience as a first generation Syrian-American using soulful melodies, funk-inspired rhythms, and captivating lyrics regarding love, loss, and the war in Syria. The band will perform tonight at 7 p.m. at the Raccoon Motel (315 E. 2nd St., Davenport), with a $10 admission. They will give a free informal concert Thursday at 2 p.m. at Wesley United Church of Christ, 400 Iowa Ave., Muscatine, and a Performing Arts Signature Series (PASS) concert Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Redstone Room, 129 Main St., Davenport. PASS events feature complimentary hors d'oeurves, a cash bar, and a Q&A with the artists,. and cost $50 per individual performance.Deeply inspired by Otis Redding, Bassel & The Supernaturals uses the stage as a vehicle to engage audiences in over 100 different cities across North America. In addition to performing in major festivals, performance halls, concert series, and clubs, the group works closely with organizations on events and residencies that build awareness and empathy for Syrian refugees, according to a Quad City Arts release. A substantial portion of their proceeds benefit the Karam Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization focused on building a better future for Syria.Bassel & The Supernaturals has performed in over 300 concerts between 2016-2019 on stages including SXSW, John F. Kennedy Center, Summerfest, and Millennium Park, and supporting internationally touring artists such as Youssou N'Dour, Brother Ali, Aesop Rock, Emancipator, The Dandy Warhols, Sinkane, and many others.Upon returning from a September 2019 service trip to Istanbul working with displaced Syrians, Bassel & the Supernaturals released their full-length album "Smoke & Mirrors," whose song "Stepping Back in Time" was featured on Spotify's official "All Funked Up" playlist. Additionally, the band collaborated with TedX Talks on their music video for “Calculated Love,” a work highlighting Chicago’s resilient youth in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on the Quad City Arts’ Visiting Artist Series, visit www.quadcityarts.com/vas.
	Man charged in Davenport shooting that left 1 injured Bond was set Wednesday at $10,000 cash-only.
	Fact Check: If you’ve already had COVID, why should you get the vaccine? TV6 asks the Rock Island County Health Department why people who have already had COVID should still get vaccinated.
	Auditor: Iowa’s privatized Medicaid illegally denies care A state audit finds that Iowa’s privatized Medicaid system has illegally denied services or care to program recipients, and both private insurance companies managing the system have violated terms of their contracts with the state.
	Black Hawk College looks back on 75 years in education The community is invited to attend the college's anniversary celebration 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19 at the Quad-Cities Campus.
	What do you want to hear at the next Riverfront Pops concert? The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is celebrating 40 years of Riverfront Pops in 2022, and they want your input in selecting a musical act for their next event. Take a short survey here to let the Quad City Symphony Orchestra know your favorite musical artists and tributes. Those who fill out the survey are encouraged to forward it to friends and family. Stay up to date on upcoming events by following the Quad City Symphony Orchestra on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. RELATED CONTENT River Music Experience brings power of music into after-school programs with “InTune”Scout elves bring holiday fun for all at the Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Musical at the Adler TheatreVisiting artists Invoke changing up chamber musicMusic Guild to host community conversation about diversity and representation“Rocky Horror Show” to invade Rock Island’s Speakeasy for sixth straight yearMarching band competition returns to Brady Street StadiumAvey Grouws Band new CD hits No. 7 on the Billboard Blues ChartLinda Cook review: ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ is a musical that will resonate with young peopleGlenview Middle School is the only QC school to offer Mariachi music lessonsLocal musicians Lewis Knudsen & Leah Leah celebrate album release
	Fighting to save her son's life, a local mother helps launch "Save Our Medicine" campaign A mother in Morrison, Illinois, fighting to save her son's life, is helping to launch a campaign looking for help. Earlier this year Local 4 brought you the story of Jenna Weets and her eight-year-old son, Jeg. He is battling a rare, fatal, neurodegenerative disease called Niemann-Pick Type C, or NPC. The disease is described as being similar to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and ALS combined, causing rapid declines in the ability to move, think, speak and eat without medication. There is currently no known cure for NPC, and there are only two medications that help keep kids like Jeg alive. Both of those medications are at risk of being taken away. That's why Jenna and other moms are launching a campaign called, "Save Our Medicine", asking the Food and Drug Administration to do just that. The campaign includes a video called "You Are My Sunshine", where the moms sing the famous tune for their children. The moms also put a petition on change.org for the campaign, titled "FDA Save Our Medicine." The petition has received over 43,000 signatures. The Save Our Medicine campaign has also gained support from celebrities, including Jana Kramer, an actress from the TV show "One Tree Hill", who shared the You Are My Sunshine video on social media when it was released. Right now, the FDA is set to stop distribution of the two medicines in June of 2022, which has Jenna and all other moms who have children with NPC hoping the campaign works. "My family knows that if Jeg were to lose this medicine, we'd see him rapidly decline and die within years," she said. "They really are our sunshine, they're the reason that we do everything that we do. They inspire us, they inspire everybody else, and we're going to fight for them." Jenna and all other moms are asking for continued support and more signatures on their change.org petition to the FDA.
	Augustana raises wage for all hourly employees to $15, ahead of Illinois rise in minimum wage Effective Nov. 1, Augustana College will raise the rate of minimum wage on campus for hourly employees from $12.62 per hour to $15 per hour. The increase was initiated by the Augustana Board Chair John Murabito, who is an alumnus of Augustana and chief human resources officer of Cigna Corporation, and college president Steve Bahls. This increase makes Augustana a leader, as Illinois law currently has the minimum wage set at $11 per hour and scheduled a $1-increase per year through 2025, when it will then reach $15. “The employees at Augustana are what make the college shine brightly,” Bahls said in a Wednesday release from the college. “It’s important to the entire college community that we compensate people competitively.” Augustana president Steve Bahls. “As the college turns a corner in the COVID-19 pandemic, finances and fiscal planning become clearer,” he said. He noted Augustana is in a strong financial position that allows flexibility to increase the minimum wage ahead of the next state-mandated increases expected on Jan. 1, 2022. “We recognize the strain that the pandemic has put on organizations, Augustana included, but I know that for each individual family that burden is much greater," Bahls said. The minimum wage increase comes after a $1,000 bonus was given to all full-time employees earlier this year. And it’s on the heels of an extra day off in 2021, which was recently announced. This increase does not apply to student employees. “Employees at Augustana enjoy benefits that are unique to our institution,” said Mindy Zumdome, director of human resources. “Competitive health benefits, generous paid time off benefits, tuition remission for their children, and a vibrant, mission-driven community all attract and retain valuable talent.” Augustana College in Rock Island has a total workforce of 600. Like many other institutions and organizations, Augustana, with a workforce of 600, has a number of unfilled positions. The college currently has 16 open positions from a variety of departments (including faculty, staff and athletics). “The mission of Augustana is to serve students and encourage them to find their life’s calling of leadership and service,” Bahls said. “It’s absolutely critical that we serve employees — the people who keep this place running — with the same drive and consideration.” One big position the private school is looking to fill is president, as Bahls plans to retire July 1, 2022, after leading Augustana since summer 2003. This past February, the college held several listening sessions with key constituencies of the campus and wider community, to help draft a job description and get on the road to choose its ninth president by Jan. 1, 2022. Bahls delayed his planned retirement (from this past summer to next year) in order to lead the college through the challenging years of the pandemic.
	Free family-friendly flu vaccination clinic Wednesday Genesis and Community Health Care Inc. are hosting a free family-friendly flu vaccination clinic Wednesday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at Brady Street Stadium, located at 3603 Brady Street, Davenport.
	Federal court strikes down outdated redistricting map, rejects GOP push for bipartisan commission SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (NEXSTAR) -- A federal court on Tuesday officially invalidated the old redistricting maps that Illinois Democrats scrapped and replaced with new ones in September, describing their map-making scheme as a "patchwork of political maneuvering and manipulation." The court also invited Republicans and Latino groups to submit their own new map proposals to prove their accusations that the updated Democratic map lines Governor Pritzker signed into law in September are unconstitutional. The ruling sets up a November hearing where the courts could determine whether to keep or throw out the new maps Pritzker signed into law last month. Back in May, Democrats used incomplete census estimates from the American Community Survey data to rush wildly inaccurate maps to Governor J.B. Pritzker's desk before a constitutional deadline would've forced them to allow Republicans a chance to advance their maps through a bipartisan commission. At the time, on May 12th, Governor Pritzker said, "there is a constitutional requirement that there is a map that passes before June 30th." On June 3rd, after the General Assembly passed those maps to Pritzker's desk, House Speaker Chris Welch said, "the Republicans were asking us to ignore our constitutional mandate to draw maps by June 30." Again, on August 23rd, Pritzker repeated, "there was a redistricting plan that was passed by June 30. That's the constitutional deadline." The federal court found those claims false. "Neither the text nor the structure of the Illinois Constitution mandates that the redistricting process be completed by June 30," the court ruling said. "They could have waited for the census data in August 2021 before producing the maps." The court noted that "the Census Bureau itself states that ACS data should not be used for redistricting," and if the General Assembly had waited for the official census data, then the Democrats in the supermajority would have to share the map-drawing powers with Republicans on a bipartisan commission. The court scolded Democrats for prioritizing their grip on the gerrymandering process and jeopardizing voters' constitutional rights in the process. "The General Assembly risked running afoul of the one-person, one-vote principle to avoid ceding political control of the legislative redistricting process," the court found. Despite the court's thorough criticism of the Democrats' initial power play, the ruling also said the new maps drawn in September were warranted, and shut down any notion of moving toward a bipartisan commission at this stage, calling that a "far-fetched notion" this late in the process. Republicans still celebrated the ruling and described it as the courts "seizing control" of the map-making process. The court ruling, however, plainly stated that the Supreme Court has ruled repeatedly that those powers rest with the legislature. "This is a big setback for the Governor and his Democrat allies, because this proves that twice the Governor signed an unconstitutional map," state senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) said. In fact, the court did not make any ruling on the constitutionality of the second map. "Well, this one basically looks like it's going to potentially invalidate that one," Plummer backpedaled. "If the courts show that, you know, the the original map was wrong. And that map, you know, wasn't taken out of consideration when they passed the second map." Plummer's wishful thinking misreads the court's clearly stated ruling. They struck down the old map specifically so that if, or when, the new map was temporarily suspended during the judicial review, the outdated, inaccurate map based on census estimates wouldn't immediately become law and throw the upcoming election year into complete chaos. A federal court ruling struck down the first state redistricting maps Illinois adopted in June, in part, to ensure they would not be enforced if the new September maps are invalidated or suspended during the court battle. pic.twitter.com/YDbNeRkEhe— Mark Maxwell (@MarkMaxwellTV) October 20, 2021 A federal court ruling struck down the first state redistricting maps Illinois adopted in June, in part, to ensure they would not be enforced if the new September maps are invalidated or suspended during the court battle. Beyond generally showing deference to the legislature in redistricting matters, the court also said it would proceed toward approving the map Democrats adopted in September, unless Republicans or Latino groups could submit their own maps and demonstrate how their maps remedy any statutory defect or constitutional violation. Senate President Don Harmon said, "Now, the Republicans finally need to put forward their own maps instead of simply complaining about ours.” Plummer claimed the GOP map proposal would include concerns raised by Black and Latino voter groups, but he would not say if the Republican map proposal would actually include more majority-Black districts. "The map that we're going to submit is going to better reflect the African American population, it's going to better reflect the Hispanic population, it's going to reflect the groups that were overlooked," he said. House Deputy Majority Leader Mary Flowers (D-Chicago), the longest tenured member of the Illinois General Assembly, said, "For them to say that theirs is going to be better, I doubt that seriously." Other House Democrats found Plummer's purported concern for Black voters disingenuous, and questioned why he opposed the Black Caucus' push for expanded voter rights, criminal justice measures, police reform, and their efforts to tackle systemic racism in health care, business, and education. "The Republican Party caring about diversity in this day sounds little bit surprising to me," Rep. Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago) said. "There's no one who isn't white on that side of the aisle as well. They've not worked to support a Black candidate, or Latinx candidate, or anyone else." Republicans have until November 8th to submit their alternative map proposals. Democrats have until November 18th to object or respond. The court scheduled a status hearing for November 5th. The 2022 primary election is scheduled for June 28th. Candidates can start circulating petitions to appear on the primary ballot in January.
	Augustana College presents pop-rock musical "Island Song" in its Black Box Theatre The Augustana College Theatre Arts Department will present the pop-rock musical “Island Song” on Thursday through Sunday at 7:30 p.m., in the Honkamp Blackbox Theatre, inside the Brunner Theatre Center (3750 7th Ave., Rock Island). The show -- with lyrics by Sam Carner, music by Derek Gregor, and story by Carner, Gregor and Marlo Hunter -- is an off-beat dramedy with a kinetic pop-rock score. “Island Song” takes us through a year in the lives of five 20- and 30-somethings sharing a city and the chain of surprising, poignant, and partially random connections that bring them into each other’s spheres at moments that become pivotal, according to an Augustana release. As the city pulses around them, they all must work through their own complex relationships with ambition, distraction, and the search for connection. “Island Song” is directed by Augustana senior Brycen Witt. When asked what audiences could expect from the production, Witt explained, “I can’t remember the last time I was involved in or even saw a show like this. Island Song really is a can’t miss event.” The cast features Augustana students AJ Weber, Ariela Policastro, Sarah Walton, Brian Heffernan, Julie Tarling, and Camryn MacLean. The production team includes Lindsey Edwards, who serves as the assistant director and choreographer, music director Andrew Bradshaw, stage manager Synth Gonzalez, assistant stage manager John Flannery, lighting designer Riley Scranton, costume designer Amber Johnson, and props designer Zach Misner. Sam Carner and Derek Gregor, among Playbill.com’s 12 Contemporary Musical Theatre Songwriters You Should Know, won the Richard Rodgers Award and the John Wallowitch Award for songwriters under 40, and Sam won the Kleban Prize for “Most Promising Librettist.” Their songs, which have garnered 11 MAC nominations for “Best Song” / “Best Comedic Song” with one win, are performed in hundreds of venues around the world every year and have been sung on all seven continents (including Antarctica). Derek Gregor, left, and Sam Carner are the team behind "Island Song." Their musical UNLOCK’D was produced Off-Broadway at the Duke Theater in the summer of 2013. That musical was produced at the New York Musical Theatre Festival in 2007, where it won the “Best of the Fest” audience prize and received Talkin’ Broadway citations for “Outstanding New Musical” and “Outstanding Original Theatrical Score.” Their musical ISLAND SONG was produced at New York's Adirondack Theatre Festival (“tuneful, lyrically smart, and full of heart… an uncountable number of bright, funny lyrics… superb” – Albany Times Union), the Bloomington Playwrights Project (“mesmerizing… vibrant, supercharged” – Herald Times), and London’s Rose Bruford College, with productions in 2017-18 at Oakland University, London’s Hidden Theatre, and more. "Island Song" has been performed in workshop or concert at the Balagan Theatre in Seattle, the Indiana Festival of Theatre, Princeton University, Western Carolina University, (le) Poisson Rouge in New York City, Crawfish in Tokyo (in Japanese), the Comedie Nation in Paris, London’s St. James Studio, and many more. Tickets for this weekend's performances are $10, $7 for seniors, and $5 for faculty/staff/and non-Augustana students, and free for Augie students with ID. Tickets are available by calling 309-794-7306, visiting augustana.edu/tickets, or at the door.
	LIVE: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds holds media briefing Wednesday The briefing begins at 10 a.m.
	Quad Cities housing prices have increased 18.8 percent over the past five years, echoing national trends Due to tremendous buyer demand for homes and limited inventory, home values have significantly increased. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), the rate of appreciation in the metro areas served by Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors increased over the past five years between 18.76% and 22.6%, as shown in the the chart below. Even more impressive is the increase in the prior 12 months which ranges from 5.99% in Iowa City to 9.08% in Cedar Rapids, according to a Ruhl & Ruhl release. "FHFA data always runs a quarter behind, so this increase was only through June of 2021. Based on extremely strong 3rd quarter sales, we anticipate values will continue to appreciate, albeit at a slower pace, through the end of this year and likely through 2022," the company said. "This increase in home values makes now a great time for sellers to sell," Ruhl said, noting Quad Cities home values have jumped nearly 18.8 percent in five years. "It’s also a good time to unlock the equity in a home with a cash out refinance that can be used for many purposes such as home improvements, buying an investment property, paying off debt, etc. " “During the second quarter, home prices nationally peaked in June with an 18.8% growth rate, compared to a year ago," said Lynn Fischer, Deputy Director of FHFA’s Division of Research and Statistics. The continuing appreciation in home prices and likely increase in mortgage rates will make now the best time to buy a new home before monthly payments increase. Nationally, housing prices appreciated 47.6 percent in the past five years. Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs)Percent Change in House Prices 1 Year5 YearCedar Rapids, IA+ 9.08%+ 22.60%Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL+ 7.37%+ 18.76%Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA+ 8.59%+ 25.17%Dubuque, IA+ 6.72%+ 19.70%Iowa City, IA+ 5.99%+ 18.82%USA+ 17.42%+ 47.66% This information is courtesy of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) for the second quarter of 2021. FHFA stats always run one quarter behind. Their full report is available at www.fhfa.gov. "We have continued to experience sizable gains across our region in home values over the last year," said Caroline Ruhl, CEO, Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors. "To get a real sense of your local neighborhood real estate market, we suggest you meet with a Ruhl & Ruhl Realtor who can give you a summary of activity in your neighborhood." According to the real estate website Zillow, the current average U.S. home price is $308,220, compared to $202,000 in early 2016. Housing prices are forecast to continue increasing, to an average of $355,000 in September 2022. According to Ruhl & Ruhl, the average Iowa Quad-Cities home in September 2021 sold for $247,000, while the average sale price in the Illinois Quad-Cities was $149,000. For more information, visit the company's Facts & Trends.
	Drive-through clean out your medicine cabinet event The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office and Clinton Police Department want you to drive through and drop off unused, unneeded or expired medication Saturday. Local law enforcement is partnering with the local youth substance use coalition, the Camanche DeWitt Coalition and the Gateway ImpACT Coalition and the Drug Enforcement Administration to help residents by offering a convenient and safe option for disposing of medication. The Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Event is Saturday, October 23, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the Clinton County Law Center/Courthouse parking lot, located at 241 7th Avenue, Clinton. No sharps, needles or business waste will be accepted. Medication can be left in original containers. If you are unable to attend this event, you can also drop off medication during normal business hours at one of the following locations: HyVee Pharmacy, 901 South 4th Street, Clinton Scott Drug, 629 6th Avenue, DeWitt Wagner Pharmacy & Integrated Health, 1726 North 2nd Street, Clinton Walgreens, 1905 North 2nd Street, Clinton
	Family fun: pumpkin painting for purpose Kinnas House of Love invites you to paint pumpkins for purpose! Bring our the kids for pumpkin painting and drone education Saturday with Kinnas House of Love. Enjoy pumpkin painting, drone education and free hot dogs, chips and juice for all kids. Painting for Purpose is Saturday, October 23, 1:00-3:00 p.m., at 318 East 7th Street, Davenport. Kinnas House of Love's mission is to assist single homeless women and young girls in the community, serving the community where it's needed and creating a safe space for kids. Painting for Purpose raises money for supplies for ongoing events.
	2021 girlpARTs virtual scavenger hunt aims to raise cancer awareness The scavenger hunt will run through Dec. 15.
	Quad City Kids Are The Worst At Ding Dong Ditching, Forget People Can See Them [VIDEO] Continue reading…
	Tom Vilsack to visit union workers on strike in Iowa U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, and former Iowa governor, Tom Vilsack is expected to visit union workers picketing against John Deere in Iowa.
	Garage door monster Credit: Eric and Cindy Benson
	House fire breaks out in East Moline early Wednesday Firefighters were called to a home early Wednesday morning, Oct. 20.
	Stockham Spook House Credit: Cyndee Stockham
	Dragons, ghosts. and monsters oh my! Halloween decorations a vital hobby for some Quad-City residents Decorating the yard for Halloween is becoming almost as popular as stringing the old lights before Christmas. Three Quad-Cities residents tell why they love decorating their yards for Halloween.
	Crews respond to early morning house fire in East Moline East Moline Fire crews respond to overnight fire.
	Rick's Six: Union support grows on the picket line, Bettendorf wants to raze 17 flood-prone homes, and county takes another step in courthouse demolition
	Crews investigate house fire that broke out in East Moline Firefighters were called to a home early Wednesday morning, October 20th.
	UAW workers from other states backed John Deere strikers with caravan UAW workers from different states joined the picket lines in East Moline to support John Deere strikers.
	UAW Workers support John Deere Strikers with Caravan UAW workers from different states joined the picket liens in East Moline to support John Deere strikers.
	John Deere union workers begin voting on direct UAW representation One million United Auto Workers can now decide if they want to directly elect their leadership, which is currently chosen by delegates.
	Watch: John Deere union workers begin voting on direct UAW representation One million United Auto Workers can now decide if they want to directly elect their leadership, which is currently chosen by delegates.
	FDA lays out plan to potentially make hearing aids accessible over the counter The plan comes after congress pushed for the idea in 2017
	Firefighters battle early-morning house blaze Wednesday A home on the 1500 block of 12th Avenue, East Moline, has major damage from a fire that began about 12:30 a.m. Wednesday. East Moline fire and police crews, along with Moline and Rock Island Arsenal fire crews, were at the scene. The second floor of the home had severe fire damage. We do not know whether anyone was home or injured, and we do not know what caused the fire. Local 4 News and www.ourquadcities.com will provide updates when details become available.
	Suspect accused of chasing woman with weapon at casino Easter Sunday is back in jail A 43-year-old East Moline man accused of chasing a woman with a weapon on Easter Sunday at a Davenport casino is back behind bars. Jeromy Anderson is being held on a $10,000 cash-only bond in Scott County Jail after he was arrested on a warrant. He faces a felony charge of going armed with intent, an aggravated misdemeanor charge of domestic abuse with the use of a weapon – first offense, and a serious misdemeanor charge of carrying a weapon – knife over 5 inches. Shortly after 8 a.m. April 4, officers were called to the Rhythm City Casino, 7077 Elmore Ave., for a disturbance that involved a man chasing a woman with an axe, an arrest affidavit says. Anderson chased her while “brandishing the axe overhead in a threatening manner,” the affidavit says, during an incident that happened in the parking lot and inside the casino. Multiple uninvolved people saw the incident, which also was recorded on surveillance video. Anderson “was still armed with the axe and aggressively yelling at the victim in the parking lot when officers arrived,” the affidavit says. His behavior, “yelling, and violent actions in a public setting gave alarm to other citizens.” Officers also saw Anderson had a knife with a blade length measuring 5.25 inches in a sheath on his belt. Court records say Anderson did not show up for sentencing Oct. 8. He now is scheduled for sentencing Jan. 6 in Scott County Court, court records say.
	Sportscast- Tuesday, Oct. 19th Sports news and highlights from Tuesday, October 19th.
Tuesday, October 19th, 2021
	Old Rock Island County Courthouse is one step closer to the wrecking ball Rock Island County's old courthouse moved a step closer to the wrecking ball Tuesday night after the county board gave the okay to preserve part of it. The Rock Island County Board voted Tuesday to follow the plan established by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to record the history of the building. The old county courthouse is almost 120 years old. Demolition of the building was already approved by the county board, but preservationists got the Illinois DNR to intervene and block the move unless the county maintains a record of the building's history for posterity — a lot of it involving photography. Tuesday's decision opens up the recording process for the county to hire a contractor to follow the state's guidelines. There's no timeline for how long that work will take. It does, however, clear the way for demolishing the courthouse once a complete record is made.
	Black Hawk College celebrates 75th anniversary by opening, creating time capsule Black Hawk College celebrated 75 years of existence Tuesday afternoon. Its first class had 74 students, and one of them was the uncle of the school's current president. Students, faculty and alumni celebrated at the Moline campus. The school put together a new time capsule to open in 2046. They also opened a time capsule from 1971. Students open a time capsule from 1971 during Black Hawk College's 75th birthday celebration Monday afternoon in Moline (Bryan Bobb, OurQuadCities.com) Black Hawk has two campuses and six satellite campuses with thousands of students enrolled. "It shows you a legacy of the college that extends through the community. It touches everybody's life," said Black Hawk College president Tim Wynes. "We're an open-access institution, which means anybody can come here at any point in their life, and if they want to pursue higher ed, we're here to help them." Black Hawk College employees started a Forever Scholarship to help students over the next 75 years.
	Watch now: UAW members from other states, other local unions join Deere employees on the picket lines
	John Deere, UAW resume negotiation as strikers receive community support On Day 6 of the John Deere strike, workers on the picket line felt the support of community supply caravans as the two sides resumed negotiations.
	Bettendorf seeks to buy and demolish another 17 flood-prone homes Bettendorf is aiming to purchase and demolish another 17 houses near Duck Creek.
	Man fatally stabbed in Fort Madison Tuesday Police say the incident appears to be an intentional homicide.
	Two from Clinton arrested regarding stolen property from Lock & Dam 13 The Clinton Police Department has arrested two people in regard to stolen property from Lock and Dam 13.
	Themes of women empowerment as John Deere Union Workers continue their strike As negotiations continue between John Deere and the United Auto Workers, John Deere union workers continue to strike. The last John Deere strike took place in 1986, and a key difference between this one and the strike currently in motion is the increase in women joining this time around. Despite the large number gap between women and their male counterparts — as the manufacturing industry is largely dominated by men — women participating in the strike described how they feel empowered as they unify in solidarity with their male counterparts to stand up for what they feel is right. "I get to go home, and I get to tell my almost 16-year-old daughter that her mom went out and did strike duty, and I'm trying to make it a better future for all John Deere workers," said Carey Lundy, a John Deere union worker. "All UAW members, really." RELATED CONTENT Deere, UAW reach tentative agreementWorkers set up potential strike with Deere and CompanyNo deal yet between Deere and UAW: Deadline 30 hours awayFarmers concerned about potential strike at John DeereWoman remembers family’s struggle during the 1986 John Deere strikeJohn Deere distributors worry about strike, say they’ve already had trouble getting productsJohn Deere employees out on strikeDeere & Co. workers go on strike after rejecting contractDemocratic Party chair: ‘I stand with the workers at John Deere factories around Iowa’John Deere UAW workers walk off jobUAW John Deere workers out on strikeUnion worker talks about John Deere strike and what’s nextDelivery drivers show support for striking workersIowa governor confident striking union members and Deere will resolve issuesLocal businesses show support for union workers by serving free foodUAW members get community support – Deere commits to ending strikeUnion strike hits close to home for business owners on both sides of river
	You may want to rethink how you decorate this holiday season If you are thinking about decorating your house for Christmas, you may want to stick to last year's decorations. A global shortage in Christmas trees has caused an uptick in price, as well as speeding up the time consumers are being urged to purchase their decorations. Artificial trees, real trees and LED Christmas lights are all expected to face shortages for the 2021 holiday season. Unprecedented weather events have led to a shortage of real Christmas trees. As a result, the prices of both artificial trees and decor have gone up as much as 25%. Christmas trees are the latest fallout from the ongoing global supply chain crisis that is causing a massive shipping backlog. Due to supply chain disruptions, artificial trees are also expected to be scarce in supply and more expensive this year. Artificial tree sellers are raising their prices with even less supply than years before. "The global supply chain, freight issues as well as the fires out west that are hurting the western tree production has put more pressure on eastern tree production, so normally, we would get about a thousand Christmas trees to sell," said Kate Terrell, owner of Wallace's Garden Center. "This year, we're looking at just under 500 trees." Kate also noted that, if buyers could hold off just another year without purchasing a new artificial tree and LED lights, this might be the year to do so.
	Should Muscatine lift its ban on pitbulls? The breed has been banned from within city limits since 2003
	LIVE: Davenport school board candidates answer voter questions during Tuesday night forum There are three spots up for grabs.
	Davenport man 1 of 2 people killed in vehicle crash; third person was airlifted to hospital A 70-year-old man of Davenport is one of two people who were killed in a vehicle crash that happened Monday afternoon in Buchanan County, Iowa. According to sister station WHO-TV in Des Moines, a 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis crossed the center line and struck a 2006 Toyota Sienna near Hazleton, about two hours away from the Quad Cities. The Mercury Grand Marquis was driven by 40-year-old Nicholas Johnson, of Oelwein, Iowa. The Toyota Sienna was driven by 70-year-old John Friend, of Davenport. Friend and Johnson died in the accident. A third person was airlifted to University Hospitals, Iowa City. WHO-TV also reported a third vehicle was struck by debris as a result of the crash. The accident remains under investigation.
	UAW strikers getting supplies of food, supplies from community caravan On Day 6 of the John Deere strike, the community put together a supplies caravan for workers on the picket line.
	State of Illinois to require photos, records of old Rock Island County Courthouse be created before demolition "If the building's going to be gone, then we need to document what was there, how it was used," a local historian and preservationist said.

Thursday, October 21st, 2021

Wednesday, October 20th, 2021

Tuesday, October 19th, 2021