Rock Island Today

RICO GOP, the county’s Republican organization, recently listed 10 special events coming up in the next few months for constituents to mark on their calendars, including a grand opening, committee meetings, workshops and candidate appearances.

The organization highlighted news about its opening of its new headquarters and a special dinner event April 29 among the events listed on its roster.

From 4-6 p.m. on Feb. 6, an informal meet and greet for candidates is set for Port Byron residents and members of the press at the village’s library, 214 S. Main St. in the upstairs meeting room, with light refreshments.

From 6-8 p.m. Feb. 9, the Iowa American for Prosperity Foundation (AFP) presents an "Insight to Action" session focused on impacting elected leaders; at Hampton Inn & Suites Davenport, 5290 Utica Ridge Road, in Davenport. Its purpose is to enable voters to communicate effectively with their local and regional representatives.

“The election was only one part of the political process,” the foundation stated. “The real change happens when our elected officials start passing laws, and we need to stay engaged.”

To RSVP for this Feb. 9 event with a speaker and refreshments, go to the website.

RICO GOP will hold its central committee meeting 6-7 p.m. Feb. 16 at 500 16th St., in Rock Island; one week later, all are invited to a grand opening from 2-6:30 p.m. on Feb. 23 of Rock Island GOP’s new headquarters at 500 16th St., Silvis. An open house with food and drink is planned for residents to meet their elected officials during the event.

Two important election dates should be noted by county constituents: first, the Consolidated Primary Election on Feb. 28; and second, the Consolidated General Election on April 4. Both elections are slated for the Rock Island County Office Building, 1504 Third Ave. in Rock Island.

Feb. 28’s primary will also be the last day of grace voting; the polls will include nomination of municipal and township officers, referenda items and special elections.

April 4 is the general election — again, at the County Office building in Rock Island. The election will cover officer selection for municipal and township positions; park, library, school and community college districts; fire protection; other special purpose districts, non-partisan items, referenda and any special elections.

“Please Vote,” RICO GOP reminds residents. Any general voting questions can be directed to 309-786-VOTE (309-786-8683); questions about voter registration can be asked by calling 309-558-3571.

Republican Women of Rock Island County (RWRIC) has scheduled a monthly meeting and social for 5-7 p.m. on March 2 at Short Hills Country Club, 2500 11th St. in East Moline. RWRIC noted that men are welcome and has planned a guest speaker. For questions, individuals may contact the organization’s president, Andrea Anderson, or email RWRIC@gmail.com.

Illinois Federation of Republican Women (IFRW) plans a spring convention for 6-9 p.m. on April 7. More details will be forthcoming.

Additionally, the Greater Quad-Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GQCHCC) will present its annual gala from 5:30-9:30 p.m. on April 22 at the waterfront Bettendorf Event Center, 2021 State St. in Bettendorf.

“The evening is a celebration of our organization’s accomplishments, members, and supporters,” GQCHCC officials stated in a news release printed in the Dispatch-Argus online. “We will feature entertainment, a great dinner, business awards, silent auction, and the warmth of colleagues, clients, business leaders, community partners and GQCHCC members.”

Finally, a Lincoln Day Dinner is in the works for RICO GOP, slated for 6-9 p.m. on April 29, with a venue yet to be determined. RICO announced two planned speakers: state Sen. Neil Anderson (R-Rock Island) and state Rep. Tony McCombie (R-Savanna), with more details to come soon.

RICO noted that area residents should stay alert for updates and thanked voters for their ongoing support.