The Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce and the Rock Island County GOP recently hosted a Quad Cities Big Table Discussion, the first event of its kind in the Rock Island area, which featured local and state leaders as well as candidates discussing everything from religion to media and the economy.
Russell Christ, second vice chairman for the RICO GOP and a candidate for Rock Island County clerk who hosted the event at the group's headquarters, said the event was designed to strengthen relationships and to further community improvement.
"The Quad Cities is making a big statement in coming together for the shared purpose to listen and learn from one another," Christ recently told Rock Island Today. "When we do that, we create stronger relationships and create an even better community."
The table discussion included Christ and fellow Republican candidates Bill Fawell, who is running in Congressional District 17; Bill Long, running in Rock Island County Board District 8; and Mike Steffen, running in Rock Island County Board District 12. Also in attendance were South Rock Island 8th Precinct GOP Committeeman Gary Snyder and Silvis 1st Ward Alderman Larry York.
"The concept originated in Chicago several years ago," Christ said. "Columbus (Ohio) effectively used the concept and now the QC (Quad Cities) is executing the concept supporting the Q2030 planning initiative."
"The 'Big Table' is an open opportunity for all people in the QC to express their thoughts on how to make the QC a better community for the future and specifically assist in the successful execution of the Q2030 initiative," he said. "We have a voice, so let it be heard."
Topics discussed included "seven spheres of a community," Christ said. Among the topics were worship/belief systems/religion, family, media, government and politics, education/science, and technology. The economy, along with finance, business, and culture and entertainment were also discussed.
Christ said more Big Table events are expected to be held over the next couple of years.
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