El Ritmo

06/03/2026

🦁 COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT 🦒

One of the most rewarding parts of this Over the Edge fundraiser has been seeing local organizations come together to support a cause that invests in the future of our community. Today, I'd like to recognize Niabi Zoo for their generous donation to the silent auction supporting my Over the Edge fundraiser benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley.

Founded in 1959 and later gifted to the community by Patti S. Wiman, Niabi Zoo has been creating opportunities for learning, exploration, and connection for generations of Quad Cities families. While many people know Niabi Zoo as a place to get up close to incredible animals from around the world, its impact extends far beyond its exhibits.

Niabi Zoo's mission is simple but powerful: "Working today to assure a better tomorrow for all living things." That mission comes to life every day through educational programs, conservation initiatives, and care for animals in need.

While most visitors know Niabi Zoo for the animals they can see, many may not realize the important work happening behind the scenes. In 2025, Niabi Zoo partnered with federal, state, and local agencies to provide refuge for animals rescued from illegal ownership situations, confiscations, facility closures, and other circumstances where animals needed immediate care. From monkeys and macaws to tortoises and fennec foxes, the zoo stepped in to provide safe, professional care for animals with nowhere else to go.

Niabi Zoo isn't just preserving the past—it's continually investing in the future. Earlier this year, the zoo was awarded a $527,800 grant from the State of Illinois to help fund new attractions and educational spaces, including a splash pad, dinosaur dig playground, and outdoor educational deck. These improvements will give families even more opportunities to learn, play, and make memories together while helping ensure the zoo remains a vibrant community destination for years to come.

We're excited to feature items donated by Niabi Zoo in our silent auction during El Ritmo's Rhythm in Bloom event on Saturday, June 6. Proceeds from the silent auction will support my Over the Edge fundraiser benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley and the life-changing mentorship opportunities they provide to local youth.

Organizations like Niabi Zoo and Big Brothers Big Sisters share something important in common: they help create a better future by investing in the next generation. Whether through education, conservation, or mentorship, their work creates a lasting impact that extends far beyond a single day or event.

Please join me in thanking Niabi Zoo for supporting both this fundraiser and our community.

Supporting local organizations. Supporting local kids. Strengthening our community together.

🦓 Learn more about Niabi Zoo:
https://niabizoo.com/

🌸 Learn more about Rhythm in Bloom:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BBDLruRM2/

06/02/2026

🍷 COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT 🍷

One of the things I've loved most about this Over the Edge fundraiser is seeing how many local businesses are willing to invest in our community. Today, I'd like to recognize The Grape Life Wine Lounge and Cellar for their generous donation to our silent auction benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley.

While The Grape Life is known for its thoughtfully curated wine selection, it's much more than a wine store. Owners Jason and Rhiannon have created a welcoming gathering space where people can slow down, connect, and enjoy meaningful experiences together.

From live music and jazz nights to comedy shows, Wine Down Wednesdays, tastings, and special community events, The Grape Life has become one of the Quad Cities' premier destinations for bringing people together. Their intimate atmosphere encourages conversation, connection, and appreciation for the moment, something that's increasingly rare and incredibly valuable.

As a veteran-owned local business, The Grape Life embodies a commitment to service, hospitality, and community. Their support of this fundraiser is just one more example of the positive impact they continue to make right here in the Quad Cities.

We're excited to feature items donated by The Grape Life in our silent auction during El Ritmo's Rhythm in Bloom event on Saturday, June 6. Proceeds from the silent auction will support my Over the Edge fundraiser benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley and the life-changing mentorship opportunities they provide to local youth.

Please join me in thanking The Grape Life for supporting both this fundraiser and our community. If you haven't visited yet, I encourage you to stop in, enjoy a glass, catch some live music or comedy, and experience for yourself why so many people love this local gem.

Thank you, Jason, Rhiannon, and The Grape Life team, for helping make a difference.

Supporting local businesses. Supporting local kids. Strengthening our community together.

🍇 Learn more about The Grape Life:
https://www.thegrapelife.com/

🌸 Learn more about Rhythm in Bloom:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BBDLruRM2/

05/05/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/1BMQs3kUa2/?mibextid=wwXIfr

🎊 Cinco de Mayo Salsa Essentials – Tonight! 💃🕺

Got Cinco de Mayo plans?
Start your night here… then go show off your salsa skills at the celebrations later 🔥🍹

🟢 6–7 PM | Beginner Salsa
Start from scratch or sharpen your fundamentals

🔵 7–8 PM | Intermediate Salsa
Build confidence, flow, and that “where did you learn that?” energy

Location: Phoenix Davenport on the 2nd Floor

This is a Latin dance night, so expect great music, good vibes, and a welcoming environment whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.

No partner. No experience. No pressure.

Pull up, level up… then go turn heads later 💃😎

03/20/2026

🚨 Heads up, El Ritmo family! 🚨

If you’re joining us tonight at The University Club, please plan ahead—traffic in Moline is expected to be heavier than usual.

🎤 A sold-out Hardy concert at The Vibrant Arena will be bringing a lot of extra traffic into the area
🚧 River Drive will be closed at the Arsenal Bridge overpass (between 15th & 17th Streets)

What this means for you:
➡️ Give yourself extra time to get to the venue
➡️ Expect delays and consider alternate routes
➡️ Arrive early so you can settle in stress-free and enjoy the night

We promise the dancing will be worth it 💃🔥—just don’t let traffic be the reason you miss your favorite song 😉

See you tonight!

Send a message to learn more

02/23/2026

There’s no Salsa Essentials class this week but that’s not the only place Dr. Mike can show you the moves. Check him out Pillar Chiropractic!

✨ Well this is interesting…

I just had a few appointments open up this afternoon at Pillar Chiropractic.

If you’ve been thinking:

“I probably need an adjustment…”

“My back’s been a little off…”

“I’ll schedule next week…”

👀 This might be your sign.

Maybe the universe is speaking. Maybe your spine is. Either way… I’ve got space today.

If you’d like to grab one of the openings:
📩 Private message me here
📞 Call or text the office at (563) 265-5235

Let’s get you realigned and feeling strong going into the week. 💪

02/21/2026

In Loving Memory of Willie Colón (1950–2026)

Salsa has lost one of its true architects. Willie Colón was more than a trombonist; he was a visionary who helped define the sound, attitude, and global reach of salsa music. As a powerhouse bandleader and producer with the Fania movement in the 1970s, he fused Afro Caribbean rhythms with bold brass arrangements that gave salsa its unmistakable punch.

From his groundbreaking collaborations with Héctor Lavoe to his work as a producer shaping generations of artists, Willie helped transform salsa from neighborhood dance music into an international force. His trombone lines were gritty, driving, and unapologetically rhythmic, creating music that made you move whether you planned to or not.

At Salsa Essentials, we dance to a legacy he helped build. Every turn, every shine, and every syncopated break carries a little of that sound forward.

Rest in peace to a legend whose rhythm will never fade.

02/19/2026

Support the puppies… the slightly more wild puppies!

Niabi Zoo Trivia Night 🐕

🐾 Think your team has what it takes? Put your pack to the test at Another Doggone Trivia Night!

Join us for a fun evening of trivia, drinks, and conservation as teams of six (ages 18+) compete while learning about endangered African painted dogs.

Special guest Dr. Greg Rasmussen from Painted Dog Research in Zimbabwe will share stories from the field and the impact your support makes.

📅 February 26 | 6:00–8:30 PM
💲 $30 per person (includes one drink ticket, trivia, and prizes)

Proceeds support Painted Dog Research, with unique conservation items and signed books available.

Gather your pack and play for a purpose! 🐾https://campscui.active.com/orgs/NiabiZoo?season=3661535

02/14/2026

There’s just a few tickets left for this year’s Adult Prom The University Club. Keep the romance going with a date night at one of the finest events in the QC!

ADULT PROM SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21ST, 2026!!

This biggest party of the year! It's like Prom but for adults! Presale tickets will go live at 10am on Friday 12/12 🎟 First 100 GA tickets are $5 off for presale! The rest of GA will not be available until 12/19 at 10am so set your alarms because this event sells out every year! There will be dancing, music, beer pong, portrait photographer, spiked punch, late night food truck ( ), Photo Booth, magician, and of course a disco ball 🪩 We promise you do not want to miss out! It's a night to dress up and have a good time 💫

This years theme: Masquerade Ball
Tickets: https://UCadultprom2026.eventbrite.com

02/14/2026

If you’re up for a day trip to Chicago consider taking a class with top notch sensual Bachata instructors CRM Dance!

ONE WEEK AWAY! 😱

Don't miss this immersive 3-hour Masterclass with Carolyn & AKL in Chicago, designed for Intermediate & Advanced Sensual Bachata dancers who want to refine their technique, dance connection, and body movement ✨

Reserve your spot TODAY ➡️ https://crmdance.com/sensual-bachata-classes-and-events