At just the age of 17 Moon Haynes is a published writer. Moon, a senior at Thurgood Marshall Learning Center says she’s always enjoyed writing and it’s kind of therapeutic for her. Her writing caught her creative writing teacher’s attention, Mr. Britton. “Moon knew I taught creative writing and had previously let me read a poem that was written during free time in a different class. Because of that, I knew Moon liked writing and wrote very well. So, when I became aware of the summer program, I encouraged Moon and several students to apply. I’m very excited to celebrate... Read More

Allison Holland has been selected as the Bettendorf Middle School Associate Principal beginning July 2023, pending board approval. “We are excited to have Allison accept the associate principal position,” said Dr. Michelle Morse, Superintendent. “She has done an exceptional job as dean of students at Bettendorf Middle School. Her ability to connect with students, staff and parents is impressive. She is authentic and passionate about supporting students both behaviorally and academically. We look forward to her taking this next step in her career.” Prior to coming to the Bettendorf Community... Read More

Western Illinois University has celebrated Minority Health Month in April since 2006. The national theme this year is, “Better Health Through Better Understanding.” This year’s theme focuses on improving health outcomes for racial and ethnic minority and AI/AN communities by providing them with culturally and linguistically competent healthcare services, information and resources. When patients are provided with culturally and linguistically appropriate information, they are empowered to create healthier outcomes for themselves and their communities. “WIU’s recognition... Read More

MOLINE, Illinois—EveryChild, the nonprofit formerly known as the Child Abuse Council, is proud to announce this year’s recipients of the Champions for Every Child Award. This year, two awards will be given – one to an individual and one to organization to celebrate the community leaders who dedicate their time and talents to ensuring a safe, healthy childhood for all. “We received a lot of wonderful, deserving nominations from the community. Our hope is to shine a light on the people and organizations who work every day to help future generations thrive,” said Mark Mathews, EveryChild’s... Read More

Cookies & Dreams is hosting a Grand ReOpening in Bettendorf on April 8th. Following a lengthy & ambitious expansion project, we are thrilled to announce that our Bettendorf location has moved to a bigger location! We are hosting a Grand ReOpening event on April 8th at our new location with a full menu of 13 giant, mouth-watering cookie flavors – including our brand new April Cookies of the Month & our fan-favorite Cinnamon Roll Cookie. The first 50 guests will receive a free OG Chocolate Chip Cookie & we will offer prizes for the 1st, 10th, 25th, 50th & 100th guests throughout... Read More

In partnership with EveryChild, St. Ambrose University hosted a pinwheel garden dedication at the St. Ambrose Children’s Campus at 3:00pm on April 5th. Students from the Children’s Campus at SAU were present to help plant the pinwheels. The garden dedication and planting is part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time when communities nationwide recognize the role everyone plays in keeping kids safe. The pinwheel garden is a symbol of the healthy, happy, and full childhoods every child deserves. “It is a privilege for St. Ambrose University to participate in celebrating this... Read More

Bettendorf, IA – In reflection of Women’s History Month, the Bettendorf Public Library’s Community Connections series will highlight the life and legacy of Iowa conservationist and amateur bird expert Gladys Black. Community Connections – Gladys Black: The Legacy of Iowa’s Bird Lady will be held on Thursday, March 9th at 1:30 P.M. at the Bettendorf Public Library located at 2950 Learning Campus Dr. in Bettendorf. This free event is open to all ages and does not require registration. This program is sponsored by Humanities Iowa and the State Historical Society for The Humanities.... Read More

One of Project NOW’s newest fleet additions is literally a life saver. Project NOW’s new refrigerated box truck began hitting the streets last fall to help those facing food insecurity. The truck, which is grant funded, is being used as a mobile food pantry—providing food to areas that have been defined as “food deserts.” Those areas include the west end of Rock Island, the Floreciente neighborhood, East Moline, and Silvis. According to our Community Services Director, Ron Lund, we have already provided 40 tons of food (80,000 pounds) in the community through pop ups, drive-throughs,... Read More

Brittney Griner is free. Of course, Griner never should’ve been imprisoned in the first place, thrown into jail for an offense that’s as ridiculous as it is minor in a country that has far greater things to address than minor cannabis possession. But while this is a time for Griner and her loved ones to be celebrating, it’s also a time of incredible hypocrisy for the United States, and many of the politicians grandstanding about her release. Before Joe Biden, Kamala Harris (whose horrible history with imprisoning pot offenders is well documented) or anyone in a position... Read More

This week, a bill backed by Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) to combat sexual harassment and assault passed the U.S. House of Representatives with broad bipartisan support. Led by Congresswoman Lois Frankel and Congressman Ken Buck, he the Speak Out Act would void nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) for claims of sexual assault and harassment. WATCH: Bustos Speaks in Support of Speak Out Act The Senate voted to pass the Speak Out Act unanimously on September 29, 2022. The bill now heads to the White House for President Biden’s signature. “For way too long a sinister culture of silence has protected... Read More