Quad Cities Teacher Appreciation Night Kicks Off Rust Belt Americana

Featuring Guest Speaker Jim Wichman to Inspire and Empower Teachers

 

East Moline, IL – June 27, 2025 – Quad Cities educators are invited to Teacher Appreciation Night during the opening reception of Rust Belt Americana, set for Thursday, August 7 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Bend Xpo Center in East Moline. Presented by Rob Wolfe, star of the hit TV show American Pickers, Rust Belt Americana is quickly becoming the nation’s largest Antique Swap and Auction, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from across the globe to the Quad Cities.

 

This year’s event centers on educators—especially those who ignite creativity and passion in students despite budget constraints. Wolfe will launch his family's scholarship program, aimed at helping local kids explore rewarding careers in the trades.

 

“Not every kid is interested in going to a four-year college, and that’s okay,” said Rob Wolfe.

“There are so many exciting and fulfilling careers in the trades, and I want to make sure kids in the Quad Cities have the chance to explore those options. One of the best ways we can do that is by supporting our teachers, because they’re the ones inspiring the next generation. I’d love to hear from local teachers who have ideas for lessons, field trips, or projects that can introduce students to these career paths. Let’s make it easier for them to bring those ideas to life.”

 

Rob knows how budget limitations can make it challenging for educators to provide hands-on learning experiences.

“Teachers often dig into their own pockets to give students better opportunities,” Wolfe added.

“Through our scholarships, we want to help bring their visions to life without the financial burden falling on them. If we can help fund a great idea that lights a spark in a kid’s imagination, that’s a win for everyone.”

 

Wolfe has been passionate about working with students, especially elementary-aged kids, offering in-person and virtual tours of his Davenport garage and studio, answering their questions about history, and sharing the stories behind the many vintage treasures he’s collected on American Pickers. He hopes to expand this program right here in the Quad Cities, starting by empowering the educators who know their students best.

 

About Guest Speaker – Jim Wichman, Founder of Inspired Edification

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Jim Wichman, Ed.S, brings over 25 years of experience as an educational administrator in both rural and urban settings. He is a former principal, keynote speaker, consultant, and coach through his firm, Inspired Edification, which focuses on empowering educators and students. Wichman grew up facing poverty and homelessness, experiences that fueled his advocacy for value-driven, respectful education.

 

Jim is passionate about leveraging individual strengths and creating positive ripple effects in school communities. Described as energetic, authentic, and “a breath of fresh air,” his speaking style emphasizes vulnerability, celebration, and leadership rooted in core values. 

 

At Teacher Appreciation Night, Jim will inspire educators and community members with his message: “Shake the world as you go by,” challenging them to build value-centered schools that uplift every student.

 

Teacher Appreciation Night Features:

- Live musical entertainment, food, and drinks

- Exclusive first-look access to Rust Belt Americana’s vendors

- An invitation-only auction to benefit the Rust Belt Americana Foundation

- Keynote address by Jim Wichman, sharing his vision for empowering teachers and students through purposeful leadership and community-building

 

Rob Wolfe will also share more details on local trade-career scholarships, reinforcing his commitment to supporting educators’ innovative classroom programs.

 

If you are not a vendor an RSVP is Required. 

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Event Details:

Quad Cities Teacher Appreciation Night at Rust Belt Americana

Rust Belt Americana Opening Reception

📅 Thursday, August 7, 2025

🕔 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

📍 Bend Xpo Center, East Moline, IL

 

Media Contact:

Sue Ramsett-Kretz

Ink & Feather, Boutique Marketing

📞 563-514-3413

✉️ Inkandfeatherllc@gmail.com