We want to keep you informed of upcoming programs, events and exhibits at the Heritage Center.  We hope you will attend as many as you can.

 

Through May 31 - Cigar Exhibit - over 200 artifacts relating to the manufacture and consumption of cigars in the QCA.   First floor exhibit room

 

April 10 - Fifty+ years of the fashion dolls Barbie and Lili - An American icon and its German predecessor - a new exhibit presented by Ellen Sagaris at GAHC.

 

April 10, 2:00 - What a Doll! - an introduction and overview of Lili, Barbie and the German origins they share - presented by Ellen Tsagaris at GAHC.

 

April 19, 7:00 - Book Discussion Group: March Violets - led by Phil Hall at the Bettendorf Public Library in the Malmrose Room from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

 

May 1, 2:00 - Celebrating the life and music of Robert Schumann, presented by Don Wooten at GAHC

 

May 15, 2:00 - Davenport Zither Ensemble at the Homestead Colony Church/Museum in Homestead, Amana Colonies.'

 

May 22, 2:00 - My German Story - focusing on everyday Quad Citians, their German heritage and family journeys.  Presented by Bruce Bufe at GAHC.

 

June 1 - July 31 - PEZ Dispenser Exhibit - featuring the extensive collection of Emily Jackson.

 

June 1 - July 31 - German Influences in the Civil War Exhibit

June 5, 2:00 - Davenport Zither Ensemble - Annual early summer concert at the Downtown Davenport Family YMCA.

 

June 26, 2:00 - How Sweet It Is - Emily Jackson will present a program on the origin and history of the PEZ candy toppers at GAHC.

The Bettendorf Discovery Shop invites you to join them Thursday, April 7th and Friday, April 8th for their 19th annual cookbook and kitchenware event.

The store is already packed with great items, and on Thursday morning we will have hundreds and hundreds new and old cookbooks, china, dishes, linens, and many other kitchen items. If you love to cook, or know someone that does, this will be then perfect day for you to shop at the Discovery Shop. If you have cookbooks that you would like to donate for this event we would be happy to have them.

The Discovery Shop is an upscale resale shop selling gently used items donated by the community and staffed by over 100 volunteers. Proceeds go to the American Cancer Society for cancer research, education, patient services and advocacy.

Donations are accepted anytime the shop is open and a tax receipt is always available. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm., Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm. and Saturday from10 am to 4 pm.

We are thankful for all the wonderful donations and excited to have this fun event for our customers.

March 30, 2011

The Moline Foundation has a grant opportunity through a fund called Karen's Summertime FUNd in honor of Karen Getz. Through the Karen's Summertime FUNd, The Moline Foundation is offering mini-grants between $300 and $1,000. The object of this special opportunity is to provide non-profit organizations extra funds to develop creative, educational, and fun-filled activities for kids during the summer months. Non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply if they serve the citizens of Moline and the surrounding region, including the Quad Cities.

Karen's Summertime FUNd grants are made possible by Tom Getz, the Getz family and friends and many generous donors to The Moline Foundation. Such monies allow The Moline Foundation to give non-profits the opportunity to fill some of the gaps in quality summer programming and to support innovative and worthwhile efforts so that children through the Quad Cities have something just a little extra special to do this summer.

In establishing Karen's Summertime Kids program, we honor the life of a woman who gave to so many others. This special program will help us remember the many ways Karen Getz reached out to children with her sparkling personality and tireless spirit. But Karen will also be remembered as the thoughtful, intuitive partner in so many ventures and programs that brought light and hope to the hungry, homeless, and poor in our community.

All materials necessary to receive funds are due in The Moline Foundation offices by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2011 or must be postmarked by or on Friday, April 29, 2011. Please call The Moline Foundation at (309) 764-4193 to request a Grant Application.

Any child-oriented, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, including those who have never received Moline Foundation funding in the past, is welcome to apply.

The Moline Community Foundation offices are located at the Deere-Wiman House, 817 11th Avenue, Moline.

The Moline Foundation, founded in 1953, is a community foundation which provides grants to health, human services, education, community development, the arts and other charitable organizations which benefit the citizens of Moline and the surrounding area, including the Quad Cities region in both Iowa and Illinois. The Moline Foundation receives and administers charitable gifts and has a current endowment of approximately $16 million.

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The Steve's Old Time Tap Spring Chaser, a 5K run/walk led by two Rock Island women, is set for April 30 at 9 a.m. in downtown Rock Island. The goal is to reach 500 participants and to raise $5,000 with the fifth-annual run benefitting the American Red Cross of the Quad Cities Area.

Since the race's inception in 2007, it has raised more than $10,000 for the organization.

"Our race started with 260 people in 2007. Last year, we reached just more than 400 participants," said Holly Sparkman, race co-director with Jayna Gallagher. "Our goal of 500 participants will mean more support for one of the most valuable organizations in the Quad-Cities."

The American Red Cross of the Quad Cities Area serves Scott, Muscatine, and Louisa counties in Iowa and Rock Island, Henry, Mercer, Bureau, and a portion of Whiteside counties in Illinois.

Every day, on average, the American Red Cross of the Quad Cities Area works to reunite one family through the Armed Forces Emergency Services and International Social Services programs; reaches more than 107 people with lifesaving training in CPR, first aid, and water safety; and trains 28 youth and adults to be prepared and ready for potential disasters.

In 2010, 148 families in the area received assistance after a disaster threatened to destroy their lives. "On average, it costs $1,100 to assist a family of four following a fire," said Leslie Anthony, chief advancement officer for the Quad Cities chapter. "The $5,000 goal for the Spring Chaser could help five local families recover after a fire."

Steve's Old Time Tap is the lead sponsor of the race. Other sponsors include, Stern Beverage, Gas & Electric Credit Union, Cruz Plumbing, Meridian Title, CBS 4, Jumer's Casino, Crawford & Company, Huckleberry's, Cumulus Quad Cities and Nehlsen Communications.

Sparkman is the communications director for the Rock Island School District. Gallagher is the marketing coordinator at Nehlsen Communications in Moline. They are lifelong residents of the Quad Cities.

"This event started as a result of two Rock Islanders looking for a downtown race in their hometown," Gallagher said. "We've been fortunate enough to have the Quad City area support our event, and more importantly support a great cause. There is no better time to make a donation. With the disaster in Japan and the threat of flooding right here in the Quad Cities, please consider helping us reach our goal of raising $5,000 for the Red Cross."

To register or to get more information about sponsorships, go to www.springchaser.com, or visit www.facebook.com/springchaser5k.

The roof on the Geneseo Food Pantry is in dire need of being replaced.  Our community is coming together to help "Raise the Rood!"  Choirs and vocalists from are churches will be featured in this afternoon of praise and thanksgiving.

Sunday, April 10th at 4 p.m. at St. Malachy Church, 595 East Ogden Avenue, Geneseo. 

Sponsored by the Geneseo Ministerial Association.  Refreshments will follow.

Participants Gather Push-Up Sponsors Around Town

MOLINE, IL--Morrow's Academy of Martial Arts kicked off its second annual "Push-Ups for Peace" fundraiser today. The event will take place April 30th at 2:30pm, in St. Ambrose University's Lee Lohman arena. Participants can download a sponsor sheet from www.morrowsacademy.com and start gathering sponsorships right away. Everyone is invited to participate, no matter your age, gender or occupation!

"I want people to join me in making history April 30th while raising awareness for our local children's charities," said Morrow. "Push-Ups for Peace is a Guinness World Record Attempt for the most pushups done by a group of people in one place for one hour. It is a fundraiser. All push-up proceeds are evenly divided between Quad City Children's Therapy Center, Kids Against Hunger, and the Make A Wish Foundation. Spectator admission proceeds will benefit the Rock Island Word of Life food pantry."

In addition to the group world record attempt, Morrow will attempt to set a new Guinness world record for the most push-ups on the backs of hands in one hour.

"In order to participate," explained Morrow, "choose the number of pushups you are able to do every minute for one hour. For example, if you choose 5 as your goal then you will do 5 pushups for one minute then rest. When the bell rings for the second minute you will do 5 more pushups. This will  continue until the hour is complete. At that time you will have completed 300 pushups! Feel free to choose 3 or 8 or 12 or any number of pushups you can complete every minute for one hour," he added.

First, download your sponsor sheet from http://morrowsacademy.com/sponsorsheet.htm.

Participants will collect pledges from their sponsors and put the monies and the sponsor form (complete with sponsor's name, pledge amount and type of payment) in an envelope. Checks should be made payable to The Morning Optimist Club. Participants must mark clearly, on the outside of their envelope, their name and the total monies which have been collected. Participants will turn in completed envelopes on the day of the event. There will be autographed posters and buttons on sale at the event; these proceeds will also go to charity.

Morrow asks that participants please arrive at the event at 2:30 to turn in envelopes and attend the event orientation. The push-ups event begins at 3pm. Every Saturday leading up to the April 30 event, Morrow is offering participants free training sessions. Join the group Saturdays at 2:30, in Morrow's Academy, 1321 - 5th Avenue, Moline.

ADMISSION FOR SPECTATORS: $3 per person (5 years old and younger are FREE).For more information call 309-764-1929 or visit www.morrowsacademy.com to download flyers and sponsor sheets.

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MOLINE, ILLINOIS - Do you enjoy Public Television? Do you like to volunteer? Do you like new and exciting experiences? Then consider becoming a WQPT/PBS Ambassador.

WQPT is seeking energetic college students for an exciting volunteer opportunity. Entering its seventh year, the WQPT/PBS Ambassador program is an opportunity for college students to represent public television at a variety of events throughout eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Ambassadors are a more highly trained extension of the WQPT volunteer force representing the station at fairs, community and fundraising events and on television.

Ambassadors have come from Western Illinois University, Black Hawk College, St. Ambrose University, Illinois College, University of Iowa, Illinois State University, Kaplan University and Northern Illinois.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of the Ambassador program is that the Ambassadors keep coming back each year they are in college," said Bea Brasel, WQPT's Special Projects Coordinator. "It isn't just a volunteer opportunity, but a relationship that continues long after the student has graduated."

For more information and an application log on to www.wqpt.org. Application deadline is May 2, 2011. You may also mail applications to WQPT, Quad Cities PBS, Attn:  Ambassador Program, 3800 Avenue of the Cities, Suite 101, Moline, IL  61265. Inquiries can be made at (309) 764-2400.

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March 16, 2011 (Davenport, IA) - Juan Diez Rancheros is celebrating their 1st anniversary with their annual open house and barbecue fundraiser on Saturday, May 21 from 3 - 8 PM at their facilities located at the former zoo area of Fejervary Park at 1800 W 12th Street in Davenport. Activities include a guided grounds tour, pony rides, children's games, live music, a barbecue dinner and a silent auction.  Tickets are $10 for adults and children ages 12 and up, $5 for kids 2 - 11 and $35 for families of 5 or more. Proceeds from the event will be used to continue Juan Diez Rancheros program of providing alternative outlet sessions with horses at no charge to children that are in counseling due to abuse or emotional trauma.

"Our first year has been truly remarkable.  Over 100 children from the Quad Cities benefited from the program.  In addition, counselors within the Davenport Community Schools have started enrolling students in the program," said Michele Allison, Juan Diez Rancheros Executive Director and Founder.  "I am so proud of the strides we made in 2010 and am looking forward to 2011 as we build towards reaching our goal of serving 300 children a year."

Founded in 2010, Juan Diez Rancheros is a non-profit organization, operating on proceeds from the annual fundraiser, public donations and grants.  This event is an excellent opportunity for the public to come out and learn more about the program and services available to children in need.  Each dollar contributed will go directly back into the program and will not only benefit the children, but will help provide the basic needs for sustaining the good health of the horses.  This fundraiser is an opportunity for the public to invest in a program that has the power to change lives and provide emotional hope and healing to the adults of tomorrow in our community.

Juan Diez Rancheros is a nonprofit organization providing sessions with horses to children and young adults from ages 5 to 24 that are currently receiving counseling or some form of structured mentorship.  Led by Michele and her team of 10 extraordinary horses, and the safe and private environment provides an alternative outlet for children who have not previously responded to conventional counseling. Visit their website at www.jdrhorses.org .

For additional information, contact Michele Allison at M.Allison1010@gmail.com

Moline, IL - Golfers can sign up for the Jim Victor Junior Achievement Golf Classic to benefit Junior Achievement of the Heartland on May 2, 2011. Tournament play will take place at two beautiful courses: TPC Deere Run and Davenport Country Club. The event includes a 4-person best ball format, box lunch, player gift and Player's Reception. Check-in and warm-up begins at 11:00 am, tee time is Noon.  

The Player's Reception will be held at Davenport Country Club at 5:30 pm, following the day of golf. Participants will enjoy appetizers and a cash bar while bidding on wonderful live and silent auction items.

Golfers can register online by contacting Leslie Corlett at 309-277-3919, leslie.corlett@ja.org. Cost to participate is $250 per golfer. If golf is not your game, you can still support area youth by participating as a Spirit Golfer. Spirit Golfers receive the same amenities as the golfers without having to hit the course ($50 registration fee).

Proceeds from the event will support Junior Achievement programs offered in area schools. JA empowers young people to own their future economic success by providing programs that focus on work readiness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. More than 56,000 K-12 grade students in JA of the Heartland's 24-county area will benefit from programs this school year.

Thank you to our sponsors for their support of this event. The title sponsor is Jim Victor with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. The course sponsors are DHCU Community Credit Union and HNI Corporation.

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A grants submission deadline has been announced by the Moline Community Foundation. Non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply if they serve the citizens of Moline and the surrounding region, including the Quad Cities.

All materials necessary to receive funds are due in The Moline Foundation offices by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15, 2011 or must be postmarked by or on Friday, April 15, 2011.

Any non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, including those who have never received Moline Foundation funding in the past, is welcome to apply.

An application should consist of eleven copies of a written request stating the name and address of the organization, its mission, names and addresses of Board members, income and expense statement, balance sheet, and the specific purpose for which any money received would be used including a project budget. The name, telephone number, and email of a contact person must also be included. The requested materials should be mailed according to the above deadline. Other important information about grant submission is available on The Moline Foundation's web site at www.molinefoundation.org.

The Moline Foundation offices are located at the Deere-Wiman House, 817 11th Avenue, Moline.

The Moline Foundation, founded in 1953, is a community foundation which provides grants to health, human services, education, workforce development, the arts and other charitable organizations which benefit the citizens of Moline and the surrounding area, including the Quad Cities region in both Iowa and Illinois. The Moline Foundation receives and administers charitable gifts and works with citizens to achieve their dreams to improve the community.

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