In conjunction with the German American Heritage Center's current exhibition The White Rose: The Student Resistance Against Hitler, Munich 1942-1943, the Davenport venue sponsored a poetry contest seeking original works inspired by the theme of “resistance.” All individuals chosen for the slam were between 13 and 20 years of age, with their poems five minutes or less in length, and the contest winners received $100 as compensation for their entries. With the kind permission of the GAHC and the authors, a selection of winning entries will be published monthly through January.

One of the most universally admired novels of modern times, and the widespread controversy it has engendered, will be explored in the Rock Island Public Library's latest Frieze Lecture Series presentation Toni Morrison's “Beloved,” a a November 10 program in which Augustana College's assistant professor of English Dr. Ashley Burge will discuss how the author's masterpiece has faced multiple banning attempts for its frank depiction of the horrors of slavery.

Known for his successful standup career and for playing Kevin MacArthur on the FXX series The League, Steve Rannazzisi will perform two comedy sets at Davenport's Rhythm City Casino Resort Rhythm Room on November 5, the film and television veteran having also enjoyed guest spots on such successful TV programs as Samantha Who?, New Girl, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Described by the New York Times as "an important humorist in the classic tradition" and "a modern-day Dorothy Parker," a living legend brings her national tour to Galesburg's Orpheum Theatre in the special November 9 event An Evening with Fran Lebowitz, with the revered social commentator offering acerbic views on current events and the media – as well as pet peeves including tourists, baggage-claim areas, after-shave lotion, adults who roller skate, children who speak French, or anyone who is unduly tan.