Rock Island Mayor Mike Thoms watches as representatives from Rock Island's Police and Fire Departments prepared to raise Illinois' Bicentennial flag in front of City Hall Monday, December 4, 2017.  State Representative Mike Halpin and Aaron Tennant, a member of the Governor's Bicentennial Committee, along with Mayor Thoms, offered comments to the group regarding the year long birthday celebration. Elementary students from Rock Island's Math and Science Academy attended, as well as City staff members and citizens.  Mayor Thoms said the flag will be flown at City Hall to honor the year long birthday celebration.