The funny bone of one of the United States' most revered presidents will be explored at the Moline Public Library on October 14 when historian and former professor Dr. William Hampes presents The Humor of American Lincoln, a program focusing on the types of humor that Lincoln used, how he used them in politics and his personal life to achieve his goals, and what his sense of humor demonstrated about his personality.

Lauded by The Spokesman-Review as a "throwback who is silly, sassy, and smart" as well as "inventive, unpredictable, and uncompromising," touring comedian and TikTok favorite Becky Robinson brings her "The Entitled Housewife" tour to Davenport's Capitol Theatre on October 5, the Spokesman-Review adding that "no punches are pulled at Robinson’s shows, which are spirited and obscene."

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, the city's Capitol Theatre will host the October 10 event TEDxDavenport, a local, self-organized event that brings people together to share a TED-like experience, and that will find eight gifted speakers sparking deep discussion and connection through a number of fascinating subjects.

With her bestseller Remarkably Bright Creatures lauded by Book Marks as “a truly tender masterpiece” that is “whimsical, immersive, and vibrantly written,” acclaimed author Shelby Van Pelt will take part in the Moline Public Library's in-person, October 9 author visit at Moline's Bartlett Performing Arts Center, van Pelt's debut novel noted for selling more than 1.4 million copies and reappearing on the New York Times bestseller list a year-and-a-half after its initial release.

Quad Citians of all ages are invited to celebrate the arrival of fall when Rock Island venue Rozz-Tox and Laborspace host an expansive neighborhood gathering in Lowland VII: An Autumn Block Party, the October 6 outdoor event boasting art vendors, a flea market, a farmer's market, poetry readings, food and beverages, and plenty of fun for the entire family.

With the Chicago Tribune calling their performances “politically incorrect and funny” and the Charleston City Paper adding that the cast “has funny going on before they even open their mouths,” the Chicago-based comedians of Pimprov bring their sketch-comedy skills, acting talent, and significant bling to the Circa '21 Speakeasy on October 4, demonstrating why the Los Angeles Times calls their set “not your traditional improv.”

With the author appearing in a special virtual program hosted by Illinois Libraries Present and the Rock Island and Silvis Public Libraries, the October 9 event Being Imperfect with Erica Sánchez will find the author of the New York Times bestseller I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter in conversation with Cynthia Pelayo, the Times having raved that Sánchez's book was "alive and crackling – a gritty tale wrapped in a page-turner."

A variety of traditional craft demonstrations, live-music performances, food options, vendors, hands-on children's activities, and much more will be enjoyed in Bishop Hill, Illinois, during the 2024 agriculture-days celebration Jordbruksdagarna (pronounced "yord-brooks-dah-ga-na"), the September 28 and 29 event that will also boast a petting zoo, a book signing, a bake sale, and a concert of Swedish music with Johan Johansson & Friends.

Outdoor adventurers are again invited to paddle, mountain bike, and run their way to the top in the eagerly anticipated, 19th Taming of the Slough Mississippi River Adventure Triathlon, the River Action-sponsored test of endurance set to take place on Saturday, September 28.

An important issue affecting our present and future will be explored in fascinating detail when Black Hawk College reference and instruction librarian Atticus Garrison presents AI Apocalypse: A Survival Guide for Navigating AI Disinformation, an October 3 program at the Rock Island Public Library's Watts-Midtown Branch designed to equip attendees with the critical thinking and media literacy skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape with confidence.

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