Daily
Davenport
Friday, October 3rd, 2025
Good morning, Davenport. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Quad Cities Community Foundation in Bettendorf announced on Sept 29 that 36 local nonprofits will receive $629,000 in grants from its Field of Interest Funds and the Quad Cities Community Impact Fund — the largest competitive grantmaking cycle given annually. The awards range from $5,000 to $40,000 and support efforts in basic needs, health, community development and arts. Quad Cities Business Journal
- ➤ Toys for Tots 2025 opened Wednesday at a new storefront in NorthPark Mall where parents must go inside to verify their children and pick up new unwrapped toys. Community events include a motorcycle ride on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at West Kimberly Walmart and a Fill the Dump Truck collection on Oct. 17 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. with public works and Marines receiving donations — the campaign also welcomes its new coordinator Gunny Sgt Vanessa Feliscian. KWQC
- ➤ On Sunday the 10th annual Fire Muster—and Lights and Siren Parade will start at 11:30 a.m. at the Farmer's Market and head to the Village around noon along a set route, event organizers said. KWQC
- ➤ The YWCA Quad Cities will host its Spooky Swim on Oct. 11th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.—the event features games, a pumpkin relay and treats along with a free trolley ride as part of the Back from the Dead celebration. YWCA QC members enter for free while non-members pay a $10 drop-in fee. KWQC
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Organizers say the Greater Quad Cities Renaissance Faire will transport visitors back to old times with jousts, storytelling, comedy shows+birds on Credit Island on Oct. 4 and Oct. 5. The event offers a space where everyone can be who they want to be. KWQC
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Lysa Hegland was hired on Aug 20 to lead JA of the Heartland and she brings 40 years of local experience with 25 years guiding education and nonprofit work. She plans to visit JA Inspiration Center, JA BizTown and JA Finance Park—building relationships with schools and businesses to give students practical skills. Quad Cities Business Journal
- ➤ Dougal Nelson is retiring this week after nine years as CEO of Junior Achievement of the Heartland. Local leaders like Jim Russell say his work — which built the JA Inspiration Center and new programs for local youth — will inspire future generations. Quad Cities Business Journal
- ➤ Pleasant Valley Superintendent Brian Strusz will retire at the end of the 2025 to 2026 school year and a new superintendent will take over on July 1. KWQC
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ River Action announced that the Centennial Bridge lights will be turned off until Oct. 15 to help migrating birds fly safely along the Mississippi Flyway — officials said bright lights can disorient the birds. KWQC
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Davenport mayor candidate Judith Lee said that the city council must retake its authority over city decisions—she wants the council to have a stronger role in making local decisions. The Dispatch Argus
- ➤ Voters showed early interest with 170 votes at the county clerk’s office and 312 absentee ballots cast ahead of Davenport’s primary election on October 7—local news will interview mayoral candidates later this week to discuss the race. KWQC
- ➤ Jim Huiskamp, a former teacher and coach who retired as president and CEO of Blackhawk Bank Trust last year, said he will build trust with constituents by focusing on customer service in his bid for mayor. The Quad City Times
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Vera French Community Mental Health clinics now offer same day walk-in therapy for patients dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues—Duck Creek clinic also provides specialized help for children and families managing behavior concerns. KWQC
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Bettendorf’s QCAR extended its ADU design contest deadline to Oct. 15 so more architects, builders and students can submit designs for accessory dwelling units. The contest, funded by a $15,000 AARP Community Challenge grant, will award cash prizes and post the top 12 designs on the association’s website—showing local talent. Quad Cities Business Journal
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ St. Ambrose men’s soccer is off to its best 11-game start since 2012 with eight wins and players from 10 countries—each adding a winning attitude. The team will face Holy Cross this Saturday in South Bend and hopes to build on its strong international lineup. KWQC
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Masterworks I: Grieg Piano Concerto
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Adler Theatre — Check event site for pricing — Experience the opening of the 111th season with Grieg's emotional Piano Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s lively compositions.
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