MUSCATINE – Climate is changing and demands for energy keep rising. Since October 2022, a group of local citizens have been meeting and planning for an organization to shine a light on a clean, bright future. Today they launched the Muscatine County Energy District, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the development of energy solutions specific to the needs of Muscatine County. The new organization envisions a community powered by sustainable, renewable energy used efficiently which will contribute to a vibrant economy and stable climate. Its mission is to implement that vision through... Read More

The Vera French Community Mental Health Center (VF CMHC) is adding a second full-service outpatient mental health clinic to serve our community in late 2023 & to meet the growing mental health needs of the Quad Cities and our larger region. Today Vera French announced its purchase and renovation of the first three floors of the tower at 852 Middle Road in Bettendorf, Iowa. The location also provides for easy access to I-74. Vera French has proudly served as an independent community mental health center (CMHC) for a five county region including the Quad Cities over the last 74 years. “It... Read More

The State Library of Iowa has announced that the LeClaire Community Library has met the conditions for state accreditation as outlined in “In Service to Iowa: Public Library Standards Sixth Edition.” Achieving accreditation requires a significant, ongoing local commitment to high quality library services. LeClaire Library has been recognized for its efforts in all areas of library operations including governance and funding, staffing, library collection, services, public relations, access, and facilities. The accreditation status begins July 1, 2023, and is valid through June 30, 2026. “The... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) released the following statement on the news that American Airlines will offer twice daily service from Quad Cities International Airport to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) starting on December 20, 2023. “To grow our economy, support jobs, and increase opportunity, it is critical that we expand access to other parts of our country and gateways to the world,” said Sorensen. “I welcome this announcement from American Airlines, which will create a direct connection to one of the busiest airports in the United States. I remain committed to making... Read More

Davenport-based manufacturer American Power Systems, Inc. (APS) has developed two new lower turn-on RPM alternators with the addition of 60- and 90-amp, 48-volt high-output alternators to its product line-up. With these options, end users can potentially begin charging secondary power banks at even lower speeds, including at factory idle without a high idle kit, seeing results in even less time than before. The series now includes 60-, 90-, and 130-amp high-output alternators. “Being able to charge at such a low RPM is a perfect option for those driving at lower speeds in city traffic or sitting... Read More

Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) along with Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15) introduced The Pride in Mental Health Act to improve mental health supports for at-risk LGBTQI+ youth.     “There is a mental health crisis among LGBTQI+ youth across the United States and we need to do a better job supporting this vulnerable community,” said Sorensen. “I am proud to help introduce The Pride in Mental Health Act, which ensures that LGBTQI+ youth get the mental health care and resources they need so we can save lives.”    Specifically, the... Read More

The Independence Day holiday ushers in an era of independence from fines at the Moline Public Library. Beginning Wednesday, July 5, the Library will stop fining for most overdue items. By eliminating late fees, the Moline Public Library joins a larger movement among libraries to ensure free, inclusive, and equitable service for everyone. “Moline Public Library strives to make our services accessible to all,” notes Library Director Bryon Lear. “We hope that eliminating fines for overdue materials will reduce barriers and encourage more people to use the library and check out without the fear... Read More

MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – – Western Illinois University has been on a mission to enhance its reputation as a top-tier educational institution. In 2017, WIU introduced the Learning Assistant Program (LAP), a peer-based initiative aimed at promoting active and collaborative learning in the classroom. Since its inception, the program has yielded impressive results, including improved student grades and a significant uptick in Engineering program retention rates. The LAP was specifically designed to ensure students remain engaged and focused on conceptual learning. Undergraduate Learning Assistants... Read More

Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is joining the Department of Commerce to announce over $1 billion to expand high-speed internet access in rural communities across Illinois.   “I welcome this much-needed investment to expand high-speed internet access across our rural communities,” said Sorensen. “I’ll continue to make sure families in Central and Northwestern Illinois, regardless of ZIP code, have access to the health care, education, and economic opportunities provided by an internet connection in 21st century America.”   “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in... Read More

Project NOW is joining forces with other Illinois not-for-profits to aid those affected by the building collapse in Davenport. Project NOW will serve as a collection place for non-perishable food, new clothing, hygiene products, furniture, mattresses, etc.  Items can be dropped at its 418 19th Avenue Rock Island location for the next month.  Items can be dropped off between the hours of 7 am and 6 pm. According to Project NOW’s Executive Director, Dwight Ford, the agency is working with MidAmerican Energy and will be able to pay the utility bills for all its residents. Project NOW’s Community... Read More