09 Jul 2013

Have Fun Improving Your Brain Power

By Mark McLaughlin

Test Your Trivia Skills at Pepperjack's American Food & Spirits

DAVENPORT, IA - Research suggests that if you wish to increase your brainpower, you should challenge your mental skills as often as possible. Ways to keep your mind active include various forms of puzzles and memory games. If you'd like to improve your mental powers while meeting new people and having fun, Pepperjack's American Food & Spirits offers a weekly mental workout you are sure to enjoy.
Pepperjack's will hold Brain Gamez live team trivia and games from 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday night in July and August, starting July 2, in the cocktail lounge at Pepperjack's American Food & Spirits, located at 1225 E. Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA. During each Brain Gamez trivia night, three games will be held, starting at 7 p.m., 8 p.m., and 9 p.m., with prizes every hour. Entry is free.
According to Danny Holmes and Wes Ludloff, co-owners of Pepperjack's American Food & Spirits, they are always happy to offer new entertainment options for their patrons. "Last month, we offered the Evening of Art & Wine painting event, and that was a big success," said Holmes. "The Brain Gamez trivia night will make for a great evening of entertainment, whether you come down with a group of friends, or wish to make some new friends."
"We want people to see Pepperjack's not only as a unique dining experience, but also as a fun place to go with a variety of different activities," Ludloff said. "We already have quite a few regulars who come to our Open Mic/Karaoke Night." Pepperjack's offers Open Mic/Karaoke in the lounge on Thursday nights, 8 p.m. to midnight, with extended Happy Hour specials.
For more information on Pepperjack's American Food & Spirits, call (563) 324-9525 or visit www.PepperjacksRestaurant.com. Be sure to check their Facebook page for upcoming events and specials: www.facebook.com/Pepperjacks.Restaurant.
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09 Jul 2013

CORREA WINS FINAL VOTE FOR ALL-STAR FUTURES GAME

By Marco LaNave
Shortstop is first-ever position player selected to the game during his River Bandits season

DAVENPORT, Iowa (JULY 1, 2013) - Quad Cities River Bandits shortstop Carlos Correa was selected by fans for the final roster spot on the World Team roster for the 2013 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game, set for Sunday, July 14, at Citi Field in New York. The Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico, native is the first position player to make the game in the same year he appeared for the Midwest League club.

For the first time in the All-Star Futures Game's 15-year history, fans determined the final player on both the U.S. and World Team rosters by casting their votes in the All-Star Sunday Futures Finalists ballot. Major League Baseball announced Correa's selection Monday afternoon. He is one of three current Midwest Leaguers selected to the game, as he joins Beloit pitcher Michael Ynoa, of the Oakland Athletics, on the World Team; Bowling Green pitcher Taylor Guerreri, of the Tampa Bay Rays, is on the U.S. Team.

The 18-year-old Correa was the No. 1 overall pick by the Houston Astros in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft. He was the youngest player in the 2013 Midwest League All-Star Game, which he started at shortstop for the Western Division All-Stars, June 18 at Fifth Third Field in Dayton, Ohio. He is currently third in the Midwest League with a .323 batting average and fifth with a .408 on-base percentage. He is also third in batting average among Astros minor leaguers with full-season affiliates. Rated by Baseball America as the top prospect in the Astros minor league system entering the season, he was the Quad Cities Player of the Month in May, when he assembled a career-high 10-game hitting streak, held a .349 average and had 18 RBIs in 22 games. In his final 21 games in June, Correa hit for a .422 average with two home runs, 13 RBIs and a .578 slugging percentage.

This season, two former River Bandits - both from the 2011 Midwest League Championship team - have already been selected for the All-Star Futures Game. Outfielder Oscar Taveras and infielder Kolten Wong will play for the World and U.S. Teams, respectively, for a second consecutive year.

The last player selected for the All-Star Futures Game in the same season he played for Quad Cities was St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Carlos Martinez in 2011. Martinez was promoted to the advanced Class-A Palm Beach Cardinals before being named to the World roster for the game in Phoenix, Ariz. He threw one scoreless inning in a 6-4 U.S. victory.

Cardinals right-hander Shelby Miller was the last River Bandit selected for the All-Star Futures Game while on the Quad Cities roster. Miller pitched for the U.S. in the 2010 game in Anaheim, Calif., and worked two-thirds of a scoreless inning in a 9-1 U.S. victory.

The SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game, which is now in its 15th year, features the top Minor League prospects competing in a nine-inning contest as part of Taco Bell All-Star Sunday. The U.S. Team leads the all-time series, 8-6. The game will begin at 1 p.m. Central Daylight Time July 14 and can be viewed live on ESPN2, ESPN2 HD and MLB.com.

UP NEXT: Monday is First Responders Night, when all police, fire and EMS personnel can show a badge or credential at the "Suites" entrance for a $10 package including a bleacher ticket and a hot dog and soda voucher. For $15, fans can purchase a wristband for all-you-can-eat hot dogs, nachos, peanuts and popcorn on Munchie Monday presented by 97X. Single-game tickets are on sale at the River Bandits box office at Modern Woodmen Park, by phone at 563-324-3000 and online at www.riverbandits.com. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $50. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: The River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 112 feet over the playing field, is planned for next spring, along with a carousel and other new games and attractions. This season, the team just unveiled a new 300-foot long dual zip line, a rock climbing wall, a Mediacom Frog Hopper, and a number of new bounce houses. The team also boasts a new major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, and fans can see last year's No. 1 overall draft pick, Carlos Correa, as well as first-round draft choice Lance McCullers. The Astros also just made the very first selection in the major league draft June 6 and could have top pick Mark Appel play in the Quad Cities. With new rides, new attractions, new improvements, a new affiliate and future major league stars, the second half of this season is one every fan will not want to miss!

*****

09 Jul 2013

Top-Selling Indie Author Shares 4 Tips for Marketing Your Book

By Nicholas Depew
Building a Following is a Marathon, Not a Sprint,
Says Corporate Exec-Turned-Novelist

If you want people to read your book, you have to be more than a talented storyteller or researcher - you will need plenty of persistence, says Darlene Quinn, a 75-year-old award-winning novelist whose passion for the written word trumped her lucrative position as a top executive at the legendary Bullocks Wilshire department stores.

"Sometimes an author has it easy; either they're already a celebrity, or their name has been widely reported in a major public scandal - or both - but not even those criteria guarantee readership," says Quinn, author of "Unpredictable Webs", (www.darlenequinn.net), the newest in her stand-alone series of suspense-filled dramatic novels.

"Many authors will tell you just don't get into the book-writing business, because writing something that people will want to read is challenge enough. Then you face the daunting process of getting people to buy it!"

She offers these tips for getting your book in front of the masses - and enticing them to buy it.

• Draw on the strengths that helped you meet previous challenges: Quinn found professional footing decades ago, in a time when it was rare for women to rise to executive positions. After earning a bachelor's at San Jose State University, she became a schoolteacher. She later climbed her way up to working as a department store executive during a time of tremendous upheaval in the retail fashion industry. The tenacity and perseverance required to achieve that dream served her well when she fixed on another dream - writing - late in life. She sharpened her writing chops by penning articles for trade journals, magazines and newspapers.

• Book awards: Simply entering your book in a contest gives it some exposure. Should it be selected for an award, you've got a great marketing tool that can open doors otherwise closed to you. Awards sticker or seals, which can be added to the book cover, can help persuade book stores to carry it. The press release announcing winners of local, national or international book awards also trigger Google Alerts, positively increasing exposure. Announcements of winners prior to publication alert avid readers to upcoming releases.

• Book awards II: Do your research; make sure that the contest is well-established and legit. Read the rules, and if at all possible, research the judges who will be reviewing the books. Try to avoid contests that have high entry fees and those that appear to be non-discriminating. National and international contests such as the Indie Book Awards, Writers Digest Book Awards, USA Best Book Awards Reader's Favorites, and International Best Book Award (sponsored by USA Book News) are just a few respectable contests that meet these criteria. There are also many legitimate regional and local book contests to consider.

• Quality in every respect: With power comes responsibility. In the past, the only real hope an author had of being read by anyone beyond his or her immediate family was going through a major publisher. Today, authors can take production matters into their own hands with self- or independent publishing, which may lead to a contract with a major book company. Either way, a writer should ensure quality in every aspect -- from the plot and characters, to the cover art, design and paper. Make sure the book is edited by an objective professional.

About Darlene Quinn

Darlene Quinn is an author and journalist from Long Beach, Calif., whose novels about deceit, intrigue and glamour in the retail fashion industry were inspired by her years with Bullocks Wilshire specialty department stores. Her newest, Unpredictable Webs, is the winner of the Beverly Hills Book Awards for Excellence in Fiction and was selected as the number-one President's choice before publication. The novel continues her series, including Webs of Fate, which won the 2011 Reader's Favorites Award before it hit bookshelves; Webs of Power, winner of a 2009 National Indie Excellence Award, and Twisted Webs, winner of the 2011 International Book Award for General Fiction and the 2011 National Indie Excellence Awards for General Fiction.

09 Jul 2013

Richard Morthland Graduates from Spring Arbor University

By Julie Tison
??SPRING ARBOR, MI (07/01/2013)(readMedia)-- Spring Arbor University is pleased to announce that Richard Morthland from Cordova was granted a degree during commencement exercises on Saturday, May 11.

Morthland received a Master of Arts in Communication.

Spring Arbor University is a private, four-year, Christian liberal arts university located eight miles west of Jackson, Mich. With a total enrollment around 4,200, the University is affiliated with the Free Methodist Church of North America and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

09 Jul 2013

Drum Corps International to Perform in Muscatine 7:00p Thursday, July 11, 2013

By Jeff Heid
What: Percussion on the Pearl ? A Drum Corps International extravaganza
Where: 2705 Cedar St., Muscatine, Iowa (Muscatine High School Football Stadium)
When: 7:00p Thursday, July 11th, 2013
Why: To experience the DCI phenomenon
How: Buy tickets at dci.org/tickets
Tickets: Range from $15-$20 in advance (lowest price in the area!), $15-25 day of the show
Promo: http://youtu.be/GR1Zn5EBX3o

MUSCATINE, Iowa - They are athletes, artists and performers and guaranteed to present a spellbinding performance. Drum Corps International, known as the Major League of Marching Music, will perform in Muscatine, Iowa, at 7:00p on Thursday, July 11th.

Drum Corps is sometimes described as marching band but there?s no real comparison. Each drum corps performance is an intense, highly competitive, choreographed musical that is rehearsed and developed daily throughout the summer months. Drum Corps is composed of students age 13 to 22 playing brass, percussion or color guard - no woodwinds.

?It will be the second time Muscatine will host a major Drum Corps International event,? said Muscatine High School Director of Bands Jeff Heid, who is organizing the event. ?It will be an outstanding competition among seven great drum corps from around the country.?

The eight corps performing are: The Colt Cadets from Dubuque, IA; Legends from Kalamazoo, Mi; Pioneer from Milwaukee, WI; Colts from Dubuque, IA; Spirit of Atlanta from Atlanta, GA; Crossmen from San Antonio, TX; and Madison Scouts from Madison, WI!

Active participants in U.S. Drum Corps hail from more than 15 countries, and the annual DCI tour consists of more than 100 events throughout North America. Each summer more than 400,000 fans attend live events, and more than 8000 students audition for 3500 marching spots.

Tickets range in price from $15 to $25 and can be purchased online at dci.org/tickets for a discount if purchased in advance.

09 Jul 2013

Bustos puts politics first

By Katie Prill

July 1st passed and thanks to Cheri Bustos and her Washington Democrat friends, student loan rates have now doubled.

That's right, Cheri Bustos voted against a common-sense proposal?similar to President Obama's own plan?that would have kept rates from doubling.

Illinois families wanted a solution on student loan rates but Bustos voted against a common-sense proposal and then let the deadline pass without action.

NRCC Statement: "Congresswoman Cheri Bustos' disingenuous politicization of the student loan debate is very troubling. Bustos needs to throw the Nancy Pelosi talking points in the garbage can and start working across the aisle to find a long term solution for college students." - NRCC Spokeswoman Katie Prill

Background:


Last Month, Bustos Voted Against A Bill That Would Have Prevented Student Loan Rates From Doubling. (H.R. 1911, Vote #183, 221-198, 5/23/13)

 

The House Bill "Echoes A Plan Obama Offered In April." "[T]he Republican bill echoes a plan Obama offered in April to tie interest rates to the yield on the 10-year Treasury bill, rather than setting them via an act of Congress. (Nick Anderson, "House Approves Republican Student Loan Bill," The Washington Post, 5/23/13)

Student Loan Rates Doubled On July 1st. " The legislation responds to a looming deadline: On July 1, unless the law is changed, rates for a certain type of new loan for undergraduate students in financial need will double to 6.8 percent, from 3.4 percent." (Nick Anderson, "House Approves Republican Student Loan Bill," The Washington Post, 5/23/13)
05 Jul 2013

This Week in Downtown Davenport: 7/5 - 7/10

By QC Chamber
Hello!
Fish The Mississippi Valley Blues Festival is under way! Keep in mind the festival is now on 2nd street from Ripley St. to Brady St. in Downtown Davenport. Additional stages and workshops will be housed in the River Music Experience and its courtyard outside. Show your love for blues at one of the finest fests in the country and catch Kenny Wayne Shepherd along with many more amazing bands!
Take some time to appreciate the art around Downtown Davenport this weekend. Head to the Figge for their new exhibition Studio1: Pop Art Soup to see iconic images by Andy Warhol. Or, familiarize yourself with another newer exhibit during the docent-guided tour of the No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service Exhibition. If you prefer to be the artist, be sure to try out the Acrylic Painting Class for beginners.
Looking for environmental, cultural, and physical activities for kids? How about an afternoon of obstacle courses, bounce houses, basket ball, kite making, and more? Celebrate at Davenport Parks and Recreation on Wednesday during Youthfest! Due to high water, the event has been relocated from Centennial Park to the Fejevary Children's Center.
The Adler Theater's Grace Potter & the Nocturnals show is right around the corner on July 13! Be sure to get your tickets before it's too late.   While you're at it, grab your tickets for the Headbanger's Burlesque Part Deux coming to the Adler on July 20th, too.
With summer flying by, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful weather while you can! Enjoy a delicious lunch outdoors on the patio of Sippi's or Barrel House 211. After lunch, walk on over to The Ruby Slipper or the SiS International Shop to peruse wide selections of gifts and trinkets! Of course, you can't beat the fine dining at Duck City Bistro if you're in the mood for something unique and delicious for dinner.
Last but not least, we'd like to thank everyone who came out for Red White & Boom!  The weather was beautiful and we were thrilled to give you a great fireworks show from the Centennial Bridge.  We'd also like to say thanks one more time  to Genesis Health System and Riverboat Development Authority for sponsoring the fireworks and making this great QC tradition possible.
See you downtown!
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This Week's Events: July 5 - July 10
Friday, July 5

 

$1,500 FREEky Friday Giveaway

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Website

 

Brewery Tours

Where: Great River Brewery

Time: 6:00 p.m

Price: N/A

Website

Evergreen Grass Band
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: Doors 8:00 p.m. / Show 8:30 p.m.
Price: FREE
Family Fun Fridays at GAHC
Where: German American Heritage Center
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Price: $10 (for families up to 5 people)
Live Lunch with The Myers Brothers and special guest Elise Castro
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Live Music: Jason Carl
Where: Barrel House 211
Time: 9:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.
Price: FREE
Live Music: Just Chords
Where: Kilkenny's
Time: 9:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Mississippi Valley Blues Festival
Where: 2nd Street East of Ripley
Time: 2:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Price: $15 in adv., $20 at the gate
Public Skate
Where: River's Edge
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Price: $5 and up
Swing Shift
Where: Rhythm City Casino
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Saturday, July 6

 

Backyard Blowout

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Brewery Tours

Where: Great River Brewery
Time: Noon, 1:00 p.m, 2:00 p.m, 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Price: N/A

 

Drop-In Hockey (Adult)

Where: River's Edge

Time: 4:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.

Price: $10

Website

 

Exhibition: Double Expose: Prints of Past and Present

Where: German American Heritage Center

Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; Noon - 4:00 p.m. Sun.

Price: Museum Admission or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: American POP Art!

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Beyond the Classroom

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Frank Lloyd Wright: The Bogk House Drawings

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: No Shoes, No Shirt, No Service

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Pushing the Envelope

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Questionable Architecture: Terry Rathje in Collaboration with Steve Banks and Monica Correia

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition Opens: Studio1: Pop Art Soup

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Freight House Farmers Market

Where: Freight House Farmer's Market

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Live Lunch with Lowdenstein

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Live Music: Kevin Boyd
Where: Freight House Farmers Market
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Price: FREE
Live Music: Just Chords
Where: Kilkenny's
Time: 9:00 p.m.
Price: FREE

Midnight Multiplier

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: Midnight - 4:00 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter


Mississippi Valley Blues Festival
Where: 2nd Street east of Ripley
Time: 2:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Price: $15 in adv., $20 at the gate
Public Skate
Where: River's Edge
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Price: $5 and up

Rock the Pit

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Price: FREE
Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Tour: Questionable Architecture

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 1:30 p.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Sunday, July 7

 

$3,000 Sunday Shake Up Slot Tournament

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter


Midnight Multiplier

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: Midnight - 4:00 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Public Skate

Where: River's Edge

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Price: $5 and up

Website

 

Sunday Jazz Brunch at Bix Bistro

Where: Blackhawk Hotel

Time: 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Price: Adults - $17.95 and Kids - $8.95

Website

 

Sunday Live Jazz

Where: Brady St. Chop House

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Tour: No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Monday, July 8

 

Mexican Monday

Where: Barrel House 211

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: $3 Margaritas and $5 Tacos

Website

 

Nifty 50's

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 a.m. - Noon and 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Public Skate

Where: River's Edge

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: $5 and Up

Website


Tuesday, July 9


Class: Acrylic Painting- Beginners
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: Noon - 3:00 p.m.
Price: $75/member; $85/non-member

Competitor Coupon Craze

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Drop-In Hockey (Adult)

Where: River's Edge, Ice

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: $10

Website

 

Freight House Farmers Market
Where: Freight House Building and Parking Lot
Time: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Price: FREE

 

It's Firkin Tuesday!

Where: Barrel House 211

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: $3 Burger Baskets

Website


Network at Noon
Where: Modern Woodmen Park
Time: 11:45 a.m.
Price: $15 for members, $20 for non-members

Open Jam Session

Where: Brady Street Pub

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Solar Tuesdays

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Website

 

Wednesday, July 10

 

Art Lovers Book Club

Where: Figge Art Museum Cafe

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Price: FREE (Members Only)

Website

 

Attack of the Casks

Where: Great River Brewery

Time: 5:00p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: N/A

Drop-In Hockey (Adult)
Where: River's Edge
Time: 6:15 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Price: $10

Midday Moolah Tournament

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Price: 100 points per entry; 10 entries max per guest

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Nifty 50's
Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 a.m. - Noon and 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Public Skate

Where: River's Edge, Ice

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: $5 and up

Website

 

Quad Cities River Bandits vs. Bowling Green Hot Rods

Where: Modern Woodmen Park

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Price: $6 and up

Website

 

Workshop: Art in the Middle- Printmaking

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Price: $45/members; $55/general public- per student, per workshop

Website

 

Youthfest

Where: Fejeveray Children's Center

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website
05 Jul 2013

LeClaire Chamber of Commerce Announcements- Friday 07/05/2013

By LeClaire Chamber of Commerce

WELCOMING NEW MEMBER!

 

Sally Hand - Realtor, Remax River Cities. Ms. Hand has been in real estate in one capacity or another for twenty six years, and was formerly with ReMax on the Lake in North Carolina before recently moving to Iowa. Contact number - 434-774-5855 realestaterivercities.com

 

CALENDAR

 

July 5th - First Friday in LeClaire - 5-8 p.m.

LeClaire Firefighters Association Annual Water Fights - Friday, July 5th in conjunction with LeClaire's First Friday event. Registration: 5:30 p.m. Fights start: 6:30 p.m. along the Mississippi on the LeClaire Levee. No entry fee.  Double elimination trophies awarded to top 4 places. Contact: LeClaire Fire Rescue Dept. - 563-289-6044 or Greg Chapman at 563-210-8528 for more information.   

Mississippi River Distilling Company - 5:30-8p.m. Signature Cocktails in the tasting room and food items prepared by our Spirited Chef!!  Strawberry Vodka is Back - Cheers!!  www.mrdistilling.com

Wide River Winery Wine samples, open until 8PM; featuring Sangria samples! Recipes available. www.wideriverwinery.com Live Music at the Wide River Winery Tasting Room and Garden from 5-8pm featuring "Danika Holmes" 106 N. Cody Road www.wideriverwinery.com

Aunt Hattie's Fanciful Emporium Come in for a free red velvet cupcake!

Razzleberries Come in to shop and get free samples of booze cake (while it lasts)!

Other shops and restaurants will be open late!

 

July 6th - Wide River Winery - Come sample Wine-A-Ritas!

July 7th Live Music at Wide River Winery Tasting Room featuring "Joe & Vicki Price Blues" from 2-5pm 106 N. Cody Road www.wideriverwinery.com

July 9th - Blue Iguana - LeClaire Chamber of Commerce Networking Lunch noon - Everyone welcome to attend! www.leclairechamber.com

July 12th Live Music at the Wide River Winery Tasting Room 5-8pm featuring "Ellis Kell and Tony Hoeppner" 106 N. Cody Road www.wideriverwinery.com

July 13th - Trivia Night - LeClaire Civic Center hosted by LeFirst Presbyterian Church of LeClaire. Doors open at 6:30; game starts at 7 pm. Cost $10 per person; call 563-381-7777 to pre-register individuals or a table. We are raising money for the Hurricane Sandy Victims. Bring your own snacks and drinks or purchase something there. 

 

July 15th-19th - LeClaire Baptist Church - "Colossal Coaster World" VBX Week For kids age 4 up through kids going INTO 6th grade! Cost: FREE! Time:  9:00 AM - Noon Location:  1326 Wisconsin Street LeClaire, Iowa  52753 Family program:  SUNDAY, July 21 at 10:30 a.m. followed by our "Burger Bash" lunch! For more information or registration: phone:  (563) 289-4191 e-mail:  leclairebaptist@leclairebaptist.org or REGISTER ONLINE at www.leclairebaptist.org (under ministries and kids vbx link)

 

July 18th - First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire - Funeral Planning At the time of death, decisions can be difficult. This program will help you plan your own funeral or help you think about decisions when planning another's funeral. Lunch at 11:30, program and discussion to follow. No cost; please call 563-381-7777 to pre-register.

July 19th - Live Music at the Wide River Winery Tasting Room 5-8pm featuring "Pieces of Candy" 106 N. Cody Road www.wideriverwinery.com

July 21st - Sunday Brunch at the Faithful Pilot Cafe & Spirits Seatings at 10:00 and 12:30 Reservations 563.289.4156 www.faithfulpilot.com

Save the Date

August 2 - First Friday in LeClaire!

August 8-10 - Tugfest! Live bands all 3 nights. Thursday Wristband Night 5-11. Friday parade, fireworks, tug pit dedication.  Saturday Kid's Tug and Big Tug!  Advance purchase weekend wristbands for $8 available at Slagle's Grocery from June 15-August 1.  Get ready to TUG!!!

FYI

 

The LeClaire Chamber of Commerce has an opening for Web Designer to maintain, update and to continue to develop the Chamber website.  The qualified candidate must have website development experience and the ability to oversee Facebook and all applications related to the site.  Knowledge of the LeClaire community preferred.  Interested applicants may send resume to leclairechamber@gmail.com We do want to thank Chris Cournoyer for her service!

 

The LeClaire Chamber of Commerce also has an opening for a member of the Board of Directors as Lane Bleeker has resigned to take a position with the City of LeClaire. This is a voluntary position working with businesses, organizations and individuals to build a healthy economy while promoting and nurturing the quality of life in LeClaire. The qualified candidate will fill Lane's term until it has expired and will be eligible for re-election.  Please send your letter of interest to leclairechamber@gmail.com Thank you, Lane, for your time and for your service!

First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire FREE LUNCH at the Civic Center, 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Third Tuesday of the month: June 18, July 16, August 20: Come to eat and stay for the conversation! 

LeClaire Antiques is hosting an on going Plant Sale benefiting LeClaire Parks. Go by and see the beautiful plants for sale - great prices!

Please volunteer or help recruit volunteers for the LeClaire Information Center! We get a lot of great comments about the LIC, and we help promote all of LeClaire:

1. Through telling visitors about our great attractions, shops, restaurants, parks, schools, housing developments, etc.,

2. By mailing out information to individuals, small groups and bus tours who want to come find out what LeClaire is all about, and

3. Through providing nice, convenient public restrooms to shoppers, diners, people checking out our attractions, families, LeClaire residents who are just out for a walk - everyone appreciates the restrooms!

Almost everyone knows at least one person who loves to talk and meet new people - a retired neighbor or stay-at-home mom, a relative, a friend, a person from church, a person from your civic club, a person from exercise class... Please contact Cindy at 563-650-7963 or info@visitleclaire.com Volunteers are trained and there is lots of brochures and information to share with visitors.

Let's make downtown LeClaire and the LeClaire Information Center the best it can possibly be!

 

Buffalo Bill Museum is now open until 5pm daily. As of April 1st, the museum is open 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays 12noon to 5pm. A reminder: group discounts are available for tour groups, clubs/reunions, and school groups. Call the museum at 563-289-5580 for details!

 

"LIKE" the LeClaire Chamber of Commerce on FaceBook Visit the chamber's Face Book page and discover a great source of news, business announcements, events, and other information that is updated frequently. It's a useful source of updated information for all members and non-members!

 

Chamber 2013 Networking Events - Everyone welcome to attend!

July 9 - Blue Iguana - Lunch -noon

August 13 - Big Dave and Holly's - lunch -noon

September 10 - Steventon's - after hours - 5-8pm

October 8 - Hungry Hobo - lunch - noon

November 12 - tbd

December 10 - Happy Joes - lunch -noon

 

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND

 

Meet and greet Pastor Melody any Wednesday from 1-3 pm at Happy Joe's. Pastor Melody from First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire, will be at Happy Joe's in LeClaire, every Wednesday, from 1-3 pm, sipping on a soda, reading and waiting to visit with you and your friends. Stop by and say hi. Or, if you have a prayer request or a question, just let her know. Meals for Seniors at the church every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 12 noon. Good food and a time to visit with others. Please call 563-289-3646 and make a reservation 2 days in

advance.

Asbury United Methodist Church is hosting a "Partnering to EmPOWER" fundraising event for Winnie's Place on Tuesday, October 15th.  The team putting together the event is looking for vendors who would be interested in participating in this worthy cause. Booth fees are $15 for sales people and $25 for those providing a service (ALL booth fees will go to Winnie's Place). Vendors will also agree to donate 9% of their sales to Winnies Place, which corresponds to the statistic that every 9 seconds, a woman is abused. Interested vendors are asked to contact Heidi Lubben at hjlubben@aol.com for more details. Marketing packets for vendors will be available June 15th. The deadline for returning a signed vendor agreement is August 20th.

Trivia Nights in LeClaire at the LeClaire Civic Center -

2013 Trivia Nights:

July 13 - Hosted by First Presbyterian Church - Hurricane Sandy Victims

LeClaire Trivia Nights have raised over $100,000 for local non-profit organizations! Thank you for your continued support!

 

LeClaire 2013 Events Calendar:

First Fridays each month 5:00-8:00 P.M.

Summer 2013 - City-Wide Water Explosion (Hollyhock Park)

Summer 2013 - Bike Parade & Decorating

August 8th-10th Tugfest

October 6th - Dogtoberfest at Bier Stube

October 13th - AppleFest

October 24th - HalloWine

October 26th - Witches Walk Costume Contest and Parade

December 6-8, 2013: Christmas in LeClaire

Family Nights at the LeClaire Rec Center: Details at www.leclairereccenter.com

www.LeClaireChamber.com and visit the Chamber on FaceBook!

05 Jul 2013

A GREEN RIVER Opens Friday

By Tyson Danner
A Green River Flows Through the QC Theatre Workshop, July 5 through 14
When the QC Theatre Workshop debuts its world-premiere presentation of A Green River, running at the Davenport venue July 5 through 14, author Aaron Randolph III will celebrate the end of a lengthy journey, as he's spent the last five years writing, re-writing, and continually developing his powerful combat-veteran drama.
Yet considering that the production's rehearsal process, as Randolph says, has been a truly collaborative effort between himself, director Daniel DP Sheridan, and the show's five-person cast - with entire scenes sometimes shaped primarily through improvisation - he won't be celebrating alone.
"Everyone has contributed to the finished product," says Randolph, "either through making suggestions for dialogue changes, or helping organize the material in more effective ways, or reinterpreting lines in ways I never would've imagined on my own. And while this sort of collaboration can sometimes turn 'simple fixes' into major undertakings, the end result is a much stronger play."
Adds Sheridan, "The depth brought to this production by the artists involved is what makes this one of the most dynamic theatrical pieces I've ever been involved with. There have been some heated discussions and disagreements, but they've only made us delve even deeper into this story."
A Green River centers on the character of Erik (portrayed by Thomas Alan Taylor), a young Army veteran who has returned from overseas to a world he now struggles to recognize. Told through a kaleidoscopic blend of present-day sequences, flashbacks, memories, and dreams, the 90-minute drama explores the frequently harsh realities of being a soldier, a husband, a son, a brother, and an expectant father - obligations that weigh heavily on Erik's already troubled mind.
Yet despite A Green River's weighty material, Sheridan states, "The script is incredibly engaging and really captures the scope of Erik's life. And in any life, there are moments of great joy and sorrow. I really think the audience will have a full emotional experience, because this play is heartbreaking, funny, scary, honest, dangerous, and thrilling."
"The show is all about very human people dealing with wide ranges of emotions," adds Randolph, whose production also features Jessica Sheridan, Joe Goodall, Jessica Denney, and Mike Schulz as significant figures in Erik's life. "So while there are some intense moments, there's also a great deal of love and humor in the play. I actually hope people find themselves laughing a lot during the course of the show."
Taylor, whose character is seen at many different ages over a two-decade period, is himself no stranger to the process of working on debuting scripts, as the actor appeared in five original theatrical productions as a student at the University of Iowa.
"Being part of a premiere really pushes you to re-attach to the role of storyteller," says Taylor, "because it's the only time the story itself is being developed along with the production. And it's very rewarding to be part of something that's never been done before. There's a higher sense of ownership for all of us, especially since this process has involved so much improvisation."
As for the role he has been entrusted with, Taylor says, "I love the challenge of bringing clarity and specificity to Erik's journey. It's extremely challenging to cover a 20-year arc, a harrowing struggle with civilian stresses, and the suffering of a modern American soldier all within the script's stream-of-consciousness structure. Aaron has done tremendous work, and being able to give breath to Erik through his words is quite an honor."
A Green River is also a considerable technical challenge, with the show's sprawling riverfront set, lighting, and original sound effects and music - composed by Randolph himself - contributing greatly to the show's tone.
"We are focused on using the technical elements to heighten the psychological state of Erik's character," says Sheridan. "We want the audience to not only witness, but feel, the stress Erik is under. And we're really pushing ourselves as artists in terms of expanding the experience at appropriate moments. We're holding nothing back in our design options."
Adds Randolph, "The play is about blending very natural things with very surreal things, and I'm trying to blend sound and music so there's a constant flow between reality and memory.
"I kind of have this sword-forging mentality about how I like to work," he continues. "When you make a sword, you shape the metal into place only to heat it back up and fold the metal again. By doing this over and over again, you end up with something that's effective and strong. And hopefully, that's what we're making here."
A Green River will be staged at the QC Theatre Workshop (1730 Wilkes Avenue, Davenport, IA) Friday, July 5, through Sunday, July 14, with show times at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Due to the play's adult language and violent scenes, this debuting drama is recommended for mature audiences, and as with the QC Theatre Workshop's previous productions, the show will be presented under the company's unique "Pay What It's Worth" policy, allowing audience members to determine their own ticket prices following each performance based on the quality of their theatrical experience.
For reservations and more information on A Green River, please call (563)650-2396 or e-mail info@QCTheatreWorkshop.org, and visit QCTheatreWorkshop.org and Facebook.com/QCTheatreWorkshop.
A Green River performance dates:
Friday, July 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 7 - 3 p.m.
Friday, July 12 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 13 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 14 - 3 p.m.
Location:
QC Theatre Workshop
1730 Wilkes Avenue, Davenport, Iowa, 52804
(563)650-2396
info@QCTheatreWorkshop.org
QCTheatreWorkshop.org
Facebook.com/QCTheatreWorkshop
05 Jul 2013

Community Foundations awards $284,000 in scholarships to QC students

By Natalie Anderson

BETTENDORF, Iowa - A total of 54 Quad City Area high school students received $284,000 in scholarship aid. The scholarship awards were presented during the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend's annual scholarship reception. This reception provides an opportunity for scholarship fund holders to converse with their student recipient and learn more about that student's educational goals and aspirations.
The 2013 recipients are listed below:

Diana (Diane) De Pover-Nesseler Memorial Scholarship Vanessa Cannon, Clinton High School

Bill & Hilda Macomber & the Alta Kahl Scholarship
Eli Shellabarger, Davenport West High School

Helen Maurer Simmons Scholarship
Nickolas Beohme, West Liberty High School

James D. Morrison Scholarship
Ananya Pillutla, Pleasant Valley High School

Edwin R. Adland & Ruth H. Adland Scholarship
Jade Coulter, Mediapolis High School

Don E. & Charlotte Williams Scholarship
Jacklynn Ripperton, Davenport North High School
Paige Whitney, Prince of Peace Catholic School
Zachary Inskeep Prophetstown High School
Keaton Mohr, Tipton Community High School
Demond Thompson, United Township High School
Anna Yackshaw, Prince of Peace Catholic School
Summer Cook, Rock Island High School

Central High School Scholarship for Teacher Education Scholarship
Margaret Van Camp, Davenport Central High School

Clifford and Louise King Scholarship
Kaylie Morrison, Sherrard Jr/Sr High School

Corky Kress Golf Scholarship
Chelsea Roehm, Davenport North High School

Gene S. Duke Scholarship
Jessi Tapia, United Township High School

Great River Bend Cyclone Scholarship
Mackenzie Garlock, Davenport North High School

Herman & Sarah Segal Scholarship by the Stroud/Segal Families
Tyshianna Bankhead, Rock Island High School

P.E.O Chapter BL - Blanche Wood Music Award
Amanda Dang, Moline High School

Mr. and Mrs. Yang Ho Rhee Scholarship
Karl Lehman Weaver, Pleasant Valley High School

Jane and Clem Werner Scholarship
Margaret Martens, Rivermont Collegiate
Maya Murcia, Davenport Central High School
Chelsea Roehm, Davenport North High School
Alexis Greiser, Davenport West High School

Carl & Ethel Schacht Scholarship
Logan Lafrenz, Durant High School

Mariah Becker Memorial Scholarship
Jessica Weiser, Davenport Central High School

Morency Family Scholarship
Kristin Ketelaar, Assumption High School
Hunter Ilg, Central Community High School

Richard J. Collins Scholarship
James McNeil, Moline High School

August & Edna Zahatko Scholarship
Summer Cook, Rock Island High School

Ligino Family Scholarship
Demond Thompson, United Township High School

Sophia N. Hapke Scholarship Fund Maya Murcia, Davenport Central High School
Adam Petersen, Davenport West High School

Dr. Thomas Anthony Dooley Memorial Scholarship
Daphne Cornish, Davenport Central High School

Louis F. Bulechek Memorial Scholarship
Sarah Kinrade, Maquoketa High School

Verna Kaucher Scholarship
Dylan Beyhl, Davenport North High School
Kristopher Burney, Davenport West High School

Rotary Club of Davenport Scholarship
Daphne Cornish, Central Community High School
Claire Rayburn, Central Community High School
Danielle Moore, Assumption High School
Kristopher Burney, Davenport West High School
Dylan Beyhl, Davenport North High School

Brand Boeshaar Scholarship
Joshua Byrne, Davenport Central High School
Marina Kruger, Moline High School
Emily Grooms, Moline High School
Grant Chaddick, Riverdale Senior High School

Kelly Marie McQuate Memorial Scholarship Paige Whitney, Prince of Peace Catholic School

Ted & Eloise Pfeiff Scholarship Emily Doxsie, Davenport North High School

Iowa-Illinois Regional Auto Show Scholarship
Alexandra Gustafson, Galva High School
Katherine Hopkins, Davenport Central High School
Jonelle Humphrey, Galva High School

Madison Ruge, Bettendorf High School
Alex Timmerman, Marquette Catholic High School
Jacob Arnold, Annawan High School

Cordova Scholarship
37 scholarships were awarded to current and past 3M employees and family members

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