GALESBURG, ILLINOIS (July 30, 2025) — The Knox College-run organization “Blessings in a Backpack” has received a substantial $15,000 grant from the Galesburg Community Foundation's annual grant cycle, known as The Turnout. This initiative, which operates under the Kleine Center for Community Service, aims to support Galesburg School District 205 students who face food scarcity. Remarkably, this marks the second consecutive year that Blessings in a Backpack has been granted this amount.

ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (July 30, 2025) — Hundreds of current and future Augustana students will benefit from a $500,000 gift from The Austin E Knowlton Foundation, designated specifically for scholarships and financial aid. The Knowlton Foundation’s primary mission is to promote and advance higher education in the United States through direct grants and contributions to qualified colleges and universities.

DAVENPORT, IOWA (July 29, 2025) — The Freight House Farmers Market is thrilled to announce the début of the Back to School Kids Market. Located along the riverfront in downtown Davenport, the Freight House Farmers Market has long been revered as the ultimate destination for locally sourced produce, artisanal crafts, and delectable culinary delights. The Back to School Kids Market provides an opportunity for youth entrepreneurs to showcase their own small businesses.

BETTENDORF, IOWA (July 30, 2025) — The Downtown Bettendorf Organization (DBO) will hold a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the new mural, “Arches” on Thursday, September 4, 4PM. The ribbon-cutting will take place at 312 17th St in downtown Bettendorf.