Click Here for details.
Save Save Save Save
Published in The Dispatch • The Rock Island Argus on April 5, 2026
By Tom Martin
TOM MARTIN love this newsroom. That's I why leaving it will be so difficult.
After a little more than three years as executive editor, I will step down April 10.
It's been a privilege to lead the newsroom for such reputable publications as the Quad- City Times and Dispatch-Argus. It was difficult to go anywhere in the Quad-Cities without running into someone who had worked for one of these esteemed newspapers. And the list of journalists who've passed through these publications is long and storied.
The journalists I've worked with the past three years —some who are still here and others who have moved on — have made my time here rewarding. The talent here is exceptional, and let's call the culture "spirited."
From all of us dressing like Tom Loewy on Halloween, to one particular staff member making Christmas tree ornaments out of the staff pictures (reindeer, elves and Santas), we've made some memories. The Secret Santa gift exchange is my favorite newsroom tradition.
We do a lot of living in our workplaces. It helps to have kind, caring and fun coworkers.
The reporters have pulled down incredible stories, including the coverage of the downtown Davenport fatal building collapse, our series on people living on the Last Rung, our series on why Iowa shifted politically conservative, coverage of a double homicide in Davenport, the arrest in the Trudy Appleby killing and story after story of the people of the Quad-Cities. A good newspaper reflects its community, and this newsroom strives for that.
The current staff includes Connor Wood, Grace Kinnicutt, Laura Yeater, Sarah Watson, Cesar Toscano, Nina Baker, Gretchen Teske, Tom Loewy, Tom Geyer, Katelyn Metzger, Maya Marchel Hoff, Tom Johnston, Nick Keeley, Joshua Crawford, Ethan Petrik and Ben Hutchens.
Among the long-timers I got a chance to work with were Tony Watt, Barb Ickes, Matt Coss, Jon Gremmels and the late Steve Batterson. Some of the others who were here for briefer, but impactful, spells include Olivia Allen, Gannon Hanevold, Roy Dabner, Brooklyn Draisey, Bethany Kalmbach, Dave Hotle and Dave Selvig.
All of these people deserve more than a mention. They've put themselves into their work and made an impact on readers as well as each other.
I have a history with some of the current staff members. I guess that happens when you're in the business long enough.
Tom Loewy and I have worked together for nearly 20 years. Most of those years were at The Register-Mail in Galesburg, but the last three were here in the Quad-Cities. Tom is absolutely the best interviewer and storyteller I've worked with in my 35 years as editor in five different newsrooms. The high point of my career was announcing Tom (known simply as "Loewy" in the newsroom) as the recipient of the Illinois Reporter of the Year in 2025. In a surprise to me, he announced that I'd been named Illinois Editor of the Year.
Justin Conn is the regional sports editor over the Quad-Cities newspapers. We go way back, to the Macomb Journal in 1998. I hired Justin as a news reporter there, and I later hired him for sports in Galesburg. And now I work with him in the Quad-Cities. Justin is one of my favorite journalists and people. He brings a vibrancy to everything.
Connor Wood is managing editor here, but I first met him at Knox College. I was serving as adviser for the student publication (The Knox Student) and Connor was the editor in chief. I was knocked about by him then and had a chance to hire him as associate managing editor and then managing editor when Barb Ickes left after an incredible career. Connor mostly works behind the scenes, but he is amazing at assigning, organizing, editing, sleuthing public documents and working oneon-one with reporters. He will continue to excel here.
And my editorial board members deserve a little recognition. Quad-City Times President Rob Cravaritis, Wood, John Wetzel and Tyla Sherwin-Cole meet with me every week to guide the editorials for the Sunday edition. I'm the writer, but I couldn't do it without them. In addition, John Wetzel has served on the editorial board for decades. Always a professional, John comes in with a list of topics every week. He's an institution.
Finally, I need to thank readers for putting up with me. My No. 1 goal was to inspire the staff to find and tell better stories. Exclusive stories, compelling stories, stories that provide context, that help readers see and understand more of their community. Understanding can dissolve division. I hope we've made a difference over the past three years.
A piece of me will be here always.
The staff and leadership here will continue to push forward. My departure will not change that.
It's been an honor to serve you.
Tom Martin is executive editor at the Quad-City Times and Dispatch-Argus. Contact him at tmartin@qctimes.com.
View all Illinois public notices 24 hours a day - publicnoticeillinois.com
Member Log-In + Contact Us + Events + PressLines + Job Bank + Advertising Toolbox + Upload Pages
Subscribe to RSS headline updates from: Powered by FeedBurner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 15, 2026 Media Contact Information: Carrie Skogsberg (309) 821-4175 news@countryfinancial.com
As planting season begins and farmers head back into the fields, COUNTRY Financial is encouraging the agricultural community to prioritize safety and check on farm insurance coverages. Taking proactive steps now can help reduce accidents, prevent breakdowns and protect farm operations during one of the busiest times of the year. COUNTRY received more than 180 farm equipment collision claims between the months of March and June 2025. These claims include collisions on the road with other vehicles, as well as collisions with buildings or other equipment on the farm. “The planting window is short, and farmers can’t afford to lose time to setbacks from accidents, which unfortunately can happen when rushed or not prepared,” said Zack Hinthorn, agribusiness underwriter at COUNTRY. “Taking time now, before the rush begins, keeps farmers safe and operations running smoothly.” Hinthorn shares the following tips for a safe and successful planting season: Improve visibility on the road
Accidents involving farm equipment often occur at dawn or dusk during peak commuting hours, especially when motorists attempt to pass slow-moving vehicles or do not anticipate turns or stops. Use flashing lights, ensure reflective tape and Slow-Moving Vehicle emblems are clean and confirm all lights are functioning properly to help maximize visibility and reduce risk. Remember to use turn signals, as drivers often misinterpret a tractor moving to the right side of the road before making a left turn.
Drivers should plan ahead during the busy planting season, remembering that farmers will be on the road and allowing for extra time. Slow down, stay focused on the road and look for the lights on farm vehicles. Prepare equipment Equipment malfunctions are a common cause of farm accidents. Thoroughly inspect and maintain all farm equipment before hitting the fields. Regular maintenance such as checking worn parts, replacing filters and lubricating moving components can reduce unexpected breakdowns and improve overall safety. Take extra caution when handling chemicals Chemical safety is another critical focus during planting season. Review safe handling procedures for fertilizers, pesticides and other hazardous materials with all farm workers to help ensure everyone is aligned on proper protocols. Have Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on-hand in case of emergency and ensure the use of personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles and masks. “Safety on the farm isn’t just about equipment—it’s about awareness, communication and looking out for one another,” Hinthorn said. “Refreshing safety practices each season helps prevent injuries and protects everyone involved.” Prevent theft Theft of tools, chemicals and other personal property is common during planting season and can occur when equipment is left unlocked in the field, and when farmers are in and out of sheds frequently and don’t close and lock the doors. Take time to ensure valuable items are secured. Check insurance coverage and review extra coverage options Farmers should check their farm insurance coverages to be sure they have the right endorsements and coverages. For example, with Extra Expense coverage, a farmer who has a covered loss on a piece of equipment may be able to receive additional payment to rent equipment and resume operations. Farmers who sell seed corn need to purchase additional coverage. Check farm inventory lists to be sure they are accurate and up-to-date, especially if you have sold or purchased new equipment. Meeting with an insurance agent to discuss equipment, buildings, livestock, crops and employees can help ensure proper protections are in place and that any recent changes to operations are addressed. Take care of your health Finally, farmers are encouraged to prioritize their health and wellbeing. Long hours and physical demands can take a toll, making it important to take breaks, eat healthy meals, get enough rest and understand how medications may affect alertness. Let family members or employees know where you’re working and keep a phone or walkie‑talkie nearby in case of emergency. Taking time to prepare for a safe planting season helps prevent accidents, reduce stress and protect against the unexpected. COUNTRY Financial has been protecting farms for more than 100 years and has more than 400 Farm Certified representatives ready to serve farmers’ crop, farm and liability insurance needs. For more information, visit countryfinancial.com/farm. Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL, an equal opportunity provider.
###
Click Image to Find the IPA Disaster Checklist!