The new “ROCK ISLAND” block letters have quickly become one of the city’s most popular photo spots — and residents showed off their creativity in a recent photo contest celebrating the installation. The letters, standing 4½ feet tall, mark the transformation of a former parking lot into a welcoming green space at 2nd Avenue and 18th Street.
On Monday, September 8, the winners were announced and prizes presented during the Rock Island City Council meeting. Contest entries highlighted not only the new landmark, but also the fun, personality and community spirit of downtown.
1st Place – Kylie Wise
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Album Drop — Rock (and Roll) Island!
Featuring songs like:
That Barge Ain’t Even Movin’
I Left My Dignity Somewhere In The District
A Nite In Rock Island (cover) iykyk!
P.S. The drummer may need a replacement — too many drinks at practice! #downtownrockisland
Prize | Suite Staycation
Dinner & Show at Circa ’21 ($140 gift card for two tickets)
One-night stay at Holiday Inn ($150 gift card)
Drinks at Icons Martini ($25 gift card)
Carry-out snacks at Healthy Harvest Urban Farms ($20 gift card)
2nd Place – Bella Perkins
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We were trying to take our submission photo for the sign contest, but we promptly got under attack by Godzilla himself!!! What the heck!!!! Anyway, #downtownrockisland
Prize | Shopping Spree
Lunch at Roosters Sports Bar & Grill ($35 gift card)
Manicure at Lavish Salon and Spa ($30 gift card)
Clothing/accessories at Brick and Motor Boutique ($25 gift card)
Vinyl, CDs & more at Ragged Records & Music ($25 gift card)
Vintage finds at Skeleton Key Art & Antiques ($25 gift card)
3rd Place – Rylan & George
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Meet Rylan and George — a Match with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley! Over 300 matches have been made in Rock Island to date, but 32 youth are still waiting for a Big of their own.
Ways to get involved:
Become a School-Based Big and meet with a child over lunch at their school
Be a Community-Based Big and explore the city together
If you’re ready to become a Big in Rock Island, visit bbbsmv.org or call 563-323-8006.
Prize | Daring Destinations
Gangsters & Ghosts Tour by QC Haunts & History ($40 gift card for two tickets)
Escape Room Experience at Skellington Manor (voucher for 4 players)
Drinks at Wake Brewing ($15 gift card)
Honorable Mention – Nichole Payney
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Somebody say Downtown Rock Island selfie photo op with the #downtownrockisland new block letters? Well, sure! Why not! Get you a #GappedApparel shirt while you’re at it! Support City of Rock Island Government small businesses in #TheTown!
Prize | Cultural Course
Admission to Quad City Botanical Center ($20 gift card for two tickets)
Drinks & bites at Rozz-Tox ($20 gift card)
Artisan gift & staff-guided tour at Quad City Arts Gallery ($20 gift card)
Thanks to everyone who participated and helped showcase the energy and creativity of Downtown Rock Island. Be sure to stop by the corner of 2nd Avenue and 18th Street to snap your own photo with the letters — your new go-to backdrop for celebrating Rock Island pride.