19 Dec 2011

Sweater Swap Days Means Something Warm For Everyone

By readMedia

Jodi K's Boutique Offers Customers Discounts To Share Sweaters

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA (12/15/2011)(readMedia)-- What makes the harsh midwest winter bearable? A cozy warm sweater. Jodi Cobb, manager of Jodi K's Boutique, is happy to spread the warmth this season.

Jodi K's, the premier women's fashion boutique in the Cedar Rapids area, is located beside Zeppelin's restaurant on Edgewood Road.

Sweater Swap Days

From Thursday, December 17 through Saturday, December 19, Jodi K's is collecting clean, gently used sweaters for the needy around Cedar Rapids. The public is invited to bring a few of their past favorites into the store during Sweater Swap Days to benefit a local women's organization.

Customers who swap three sweaters in good condition receive 30% off an item in the store. Two swetaers will earn a customer 25% off, and one sweater will earn them 20%.

"We think this is a easy way for a woman to update her wardrobe or check a few people off her holiday shopping list," commented Ms. Cobb, "In return, she can help out someone less forutnate by providing some warm sweaters to ward off the cold. Why let perfectly good sweaters sit in a closet just because your taste or size changed? Someone else could really benefit from the clothing. Sweater Swap Days means something new for everyone!"

Details of the event are available on Jodi K's new web site launched last week, http://jodiks.com. There's also still time for shoppers to complete their Christmas Wish Lists for merchandise from the store, including boots, coats, scarves, and of course, sweaters. Jodi K's will coordinate with a customer's special someone, spouse, or husband to ensure the perfect gift of style and size for everyone. "Why risk a gift? Get the women in your life - mom, aunt, sister or beau - exactly what she wants for Christmas," said Ms. Cobb.

####

19 Dec 2011

Soldiers Ride Steel Horses for Less Fortunate Veterans

By readMedia

Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers Use Love for Motorcycles to Help Fellow Veterans

SPRINGFIELD, IL (12/12/2011)(readMedia)-- For years motorcycle groups have ruled the road. Black leather, dark shades, tattoos, and blaring exhausts have left an impression on passersbys and it has not always been a favorable one. Some motorcycle groups have become known for danger and lawlessness. The Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club is different and challenges the negative stereotypes that have been associated with motorcycle groups.

"We don't want to give off the impression that we are some outlaw motorcycle club or anything like that," said Sgt. 1st Class David G. Keefer of Charleston, an Illinois Army National Guard recruiter for the Sullivan/Charleston area and president of the Springfield chapter of the Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club. "We are veterans. We ride respectable and act respectable in public."

The Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club is an organization made up of combat veterans supporting veterans. The three Illinois chapters located in Chicago, Springfield and Galesburg is a part of a national organization with its headquarters based in Florida.

"It's more about helping your local community and local veterans than it is just being motorcycle riders," said Chief Warrant Officer (2) Christopher M. Werth of Springfield, with the 108th Sustainment Brigade in Chicago and vice president of the Springfield chapter.

Keefer and Werth went through a natural progression in becoming a part of the Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club. They both enjoyed riding motorcycles, appreciated the camaraderie found with brothers in arms, and most importantly, thought it was important to help other veterans in need.

"It's almost a fraternity where you get to be around guys with the same likes and interests that you have," said Keefer. "These warriors have done a lot of the same things that you have. It's really special to be able to share the road with guys like that and to share your experience. It's a good outlet and it does become a brotherhood."

There is a natural bond found within the organization because each man knows the importance of defending freedom and have proven their convictions while in combat.

"When you meet a World War II or Vietnam veteran, you know that they have seen a lot when they were putting their life on the line," said Werth. "You can relate to them because even though we weren't a part of the same wars, there is a bond since we have all served in combat."

While the relationships created an important aspect to the Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club, the veterans supported by their efforts are the most important part and the reason they ride. The funds they raised have gone to numerous charities including creating memorial college scholarships, providing food for struggling veterans and supporting injured veterans.

The group has been involved with numerous events recently including Toys for Tots and gathering a truck load of hygiene and personal items for the Danville Veterans Affairs Hospital. They started the Sgt. Gerrick Smith college fund and have raised over one thousand dollars in honor of Smith, an Illinois Army National Guard Soldier from Sullivan killed in Afghanistan in July 2009.

"We have also assisted in two benefits for two of our own members hurt in accidents and we are adding three more Vietnam and Desert Storm veteran relief rides next year," Keefer said. "We are also assisting as escorts for returning units and fallen brothers and sisters in arms."

The club is also planning to help with honor flights to Washington D.C.

"You have to want to give to the ones that are less fortunate," said Werth. "You have to want to give back to your local community and make your living area and your city better. You have to have it in your own heart to determine if this is something you want to do."

There are 46 members between the three chapters in Illinois and they are always looking to increase their membership and, as a result, increase their impact.

"My goal is that we continue to grow and the public comes to see us for what we really are; veterans riding for veterans," said Keefer.

For more information on the Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club visit www.warriorbrotherhood.com.

Photo: Photo courtesy of Sgt. 1st Class David Keefer/ Servicemembers from all branches who served during different wars are members of the Warrior Brotherhood Veterans Motorcycle Club. Illinois Army National Guard members pictured include (far left second row) Spc. Dalton Sargent of Sullivan, (right of the table) Sgt. 1st Class David Keefer of Charleston, Sgt. Robert Czerniak of Schaumburg and Chief Warrant Officer (2) Christopher Werth of Springfield (back row) Sgt. 1st Class Randy Clapham of Mattoon. The servicemembers share a love for motorcycles and embrace helping fellow veterans.

Story by Sgt. Jesse Houk, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

12 Dec 2011

Kirsten Sindelar Cast in Culver-Stockton Theatre Production

By readMedia

CANTON, MO. (12/06/2011)(readMedia)-- Kirsten Sindelar, junior musical theatre major from Sherrard Ill. will take part in Culver-Stockton College's upcoming theatre experience "A Weekend of One-Acts." Throughout the weekend Culver-Stockton College students will take the lead onstage and behind the scenes during "A Weekend of One-Acts." The annual student-led productions will take place Saturday, Dec. 10 through Monday, Dec. 12 in the Mabee Little Theatre inside the Robert W. Brown Performing Arts Center. As part of experiential learning at C-SC, the six students will take responsibility for all aspects of the show as each chooses a play, casts performers and crew and takes charge of directing and producing his or her chosen work.

The productions will include :

"Central Park West" directed by Dakota McKee, senior theatre major from Pittsfield, Ill. Cast members include Lisa Button, sophomore accounting major from Adel, Iowa; Morgan Hakenwerth, freshmen psychology major from Wentzville, Mo.; Brant Beckman, senior history major from St. Louis, Mo.; Nick Johnson, junior theatre major from Fieldon, Ill.; and Alaura Cowart, senior psychology major from Greencastle, Mo.

"For Whom the Southern Bell Tolls" directed by Meghan Townley, junior media communication major from Quincy, Ill. Cast members include Jeffery DeGraw, senior art management major from Canton, Mo.; Sean McAvoy, junior history major from Bluffton, Ind.; and Kayla Pickel, senior criminal justice major from Owaneco, Ill.

"Hotline" directed by Kiana Reed, junior speech and theatre education major from Chicago, Ill. Cast members include Patrick Espanol, junior speech communication major; William Cooper, sophomore art management major from Sikeston, Mo.; Erin Carmdoy, senior speech and theatre major from St. Louis, Mo. Josh Koehler, senior music major from Jackson, Mo.; Brittney Turnbow, sophomore elementary education major from Quincy, Ill.; and Dillion Kelly, sophomore criminal justice major from Toulon, Ill.

"Strawberry Envy" directed by Joey Burbach, senior theatre major from Grant City, Mo. Cast members include Tim Maples, junior musical theatre major from Chicago, Ill.; Hollyann Lillie, junior musical theatre major from Roscoe, Ill.; and Dylan Gauldin, sophomore criminal justice major from O'Fallon, Mo.

"Old Saybrook" directed by Ian Heath, senior theatre major from St. Louis, Mo. Cast members include Kirsten Sindelar, junior musical theatre major from Sherrard, Ill.; Ryan DeGraw, junior speech major from Canton, Mo.; Lina Schiel, sophomore math major; Josh Kollitz, sophomore music major from Grant City, Mo.; Ben Brown, freshman English major from Lincoln, Neb.; and Angie Faoro, sophomore English education major.

A production will also be directed by William Townsend, sophomore speech and theatre education major from Goodman, Mo.

Performances will be divided into time slots as Group A and Group B. Performance dates and times are: Dec. 10 - Group A at 3 p.m. and Group B at 7:30 p.m. On Dec. 11 - Group B will perform at 3 p.m. On Dec. 12 - Group A will perform at 7:30 p.m.

"A Weekend of One-Acts" is the students' time to explore all aspects of the expressive power of drama and performance from comedy to bitter tragedy. There is no admission charge to the performances and the public is welcome, but some material presented may be appropriate for mature audiences only. For further information, contact the Culver-Stockton College Fine Arts Office at (573) 288-6346.

12 Dec 2011

Gary Slater Named 2012 Chair of International Association

By readMedia

DES MOINES, IA (12/06/2011)(readMedia)-- Gary Slater, CEO/manager of the Iowa State Fair, Des Moines, was elected the 2012 chair of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) during the final business session of the 121st IAFE Annual Convention held Nov. 28 through Dec. 1 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev.

Slater grew up on a 600-acre crop and livestock farm in the small town of Eolia, Mo. After graduating from the University of Missouri with a bachelor's degree in animal science and a master's degree in food science and nutrition, Slater began his career as a livestock field man. He then joined the Missouri State Fair, Sedalia, as a livestock supervisor, where he served for five years. Slater joined the Iowa State Fair in 1991, where he was in charge of planning the special events, free entertainment, and booking the facilities for off-season use. After five years, Slater left to serve the National Pork Producers Council as manager of the World Pork Expo. Slater managed World Pork for six years, holding the event in both Des Moines at the Iowa State Fairgrounds and in Indianapolis at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Knowing that his first love was fairs, Slater received the opportunity to return to Missouri in 1997 to manage the Missouri State Fair. He spent four years in a rebuilding mode, helping to restore the Missouri State Fair to physical and financial success and was instrumental in formulating a master plan for the fair. In 2001, Slater accepted the position of manager of the Iowa State Fair. After one year as manager, Slater accepted the position of CEO and manager of the fair.

Slater earned IAFE Certified Fair Executive designation in 1998 and was elected IAFE Zone 5 director in 2002, representing Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. He served as IAFE treasurer from 2007-2009, as second vice chair in 2010, and most recently as first vice chair. He has also played an active role on several IAFE committees.

Slater and his wife Mary have three children: Madeline, 17; Ali, 15; and Andrew, 12.

###

12 Dec 2011

Local students perform in Augustana College's Messiah

By readMedia

ROCK ISLAND, IL (12/01/2011)(readMedia)-- The Handel Oratorio Society will celebrate its 131st-anniversary performance of Handel's Messiah on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. in Centennial Hall (3703 7th Ave, Rock Island, Ill.). This special holiday tradition will feature four internationally acclaimed soloists, including the return of renowned soprano Mary Wilson, performing with a professional chamber orchestra and 250 singers from Augustana College and the surrounding community.

From your area this includes:

Kaleigh Wall, a Junior from Eldridge, Ill., majoring in Art.

Lauren Reid, a Senior from Sherrard, Ill., majoring in Business Administration- Marketing/Communication Studies.

Rickey Rector, a Junior from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Please visit www.augustana.edu/messiah for a behind the scenes documentary on the joy of singing Messiah.

09 Dec 2011

Major General Celletti visits Rock Falls unit in Kuwait for Thanksgiving

By readMedia

SPRINGFIELD, IL (11/30/2011)(readMedia)-- Maj. Gen. Dennis L. Celletti, a native of Rock Falls and the Illinois National Guard Assistant Adjutant General - Army, visited Soldiers of the Illinois Army National Guard's 1644th Transportation Company in Rock Falls, Nov. 23 to 25 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. Celletti was accompanied by State Command Sgt. Maj. Howard Robinson of Olympia Field. The two Illinois National Guard senior leaders were given an overview of the company's convoy operations and served the Soldiers a Thanksgiving meal. The company mobilized in July 2011 and is scheduled to return home in the summer of 2012.

Photo Captions:

Photo submitted by Command Sgt. Maj. Howard Robinson/ (Right) Maj. Gen. Dennis L. Celletti, a native of Rock Falls and the Illinois National Guard Assistant Adjutant General - Army, serves Thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers of the Illinois Army National Guard's 1644th Transportation Company in Rock Falls, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 24. Celletti spent three days with the 1644th, touring the camp and receiving an overview of convoy operations.

Photo submitted by Command Sgt. Maj. Howard Robinson/ (Left to right) Maj. Gen. Dennis L. Celletti, a native of Rock Falls and the Illinois National Guard Assistant Adjutant General - Army and Command Sgt. Maj. Howard Robinson of Olympia Field receives an explanation of an improvised explosive detection device from Sgt. Jameel Franklin, of Springfield with the Illinois Army National Guard's 1644th Transportation Company in Rock Falls, during a visit at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 24.

Photo submitted by Command Sgt. Maj. Howard Robinson/ Sgt. Jameel Franklin of Springfield, with the Illinois Army National Guard's 1644th Transportation Company in Rock Falls, shakes hands with Maj. Gen. Dennis L. Celletti, a native of Rock Falls and the Illinois National Guard Assistant Adjutant General - Army, during a visit at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 23. The company was mobilized in July 2011 and is scheduled to return in the summer of 2012.

Permalink: http://readme.readmedia.com/Major-General-Celletti-visits-Rock-Falls-unit-in-Kuwait-for-Thanksgiving/3130204

Related Media

06 Dec 2011

Courtney Wachal to Perform in University of Mount Union Christmas Festival

By readMedia

ALLIANCE, OH (11/30/2011)(readMedia)-- Courtney Wachal of Bettendorf, Iowa will perform in the University of Mount Union's Christmas Festival, Child of Light, on Friday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. in Myers Sanctuary, located in Dewald Chapel on the University's campus. The holiday event will feature performances from Mount Union's Concert Choir and Women's Choir.

Wachal, a freshman French and international studies major, is a graduate of Bettendorf High School. Wachal also is a soprano and member of the Mount Union Concert Choir.

Under the direction of Dr. Grant Cook III, director of choral activities at Mount Union, the choirs will combine choral selections and traditional carols with scriptures and readings of the season.

The performance is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. To make reservations, contact the Office of Alumni Relations and University Activities at (330) 823-2030 or alumni@mountunion.edu.

About the University of Mount Union

The University of Mount Union, founded in 1846, is a four-year, private institution grounded in the liberal arts tradition. Mount Union offers an array of broad-based and career-specific undergraduate and graduate programs to its 2,200 students who experience outstanding opportunities for success after graduation. Ranked as one of America's Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report, the University is committed to providing a student-centered approach and an exceptional educational experience, as evidenced by its mission to prepare students for fulfilling lives, meaningful work and responsible citizenship. The University's 115-acre campus is located in Alliance, Ohio, 80 miles of both Cleveland and Pittsburgh, and more than $100 million has been invested in the construction and renovation of modern facilities throughout the course of the past decade. For more information, visit www.mountunion.edu.

On the web: http://readabout.me/achievements/Courtney-Wachal-to-Perform-in-University-of-Mount-Union-Christmas-Festival/3125828.

06 Dec 2011

Michelle Welke Named to Dean's List at Biola University

By readMedia

LA MIRADA, CA (11/30/2011)(readMedia)-- In October, Michelle Welke, was named to Biola University's Dean's List for academic excellence last Spring.

Michelle Welke, from Bettendorf, was one of 1,300 students who were named to the Dean's List for the spring semester of 2011.

Biola students are placed on the Dean's list to honor those with a grade point average of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in twelve of more credit units and whose cumulative grade point average is at least a 3.2. This past spring, 26% of Biola students achieved this academic goal.

"Inclusion on the Biola Dean's List is an indication that this student is performing exceptionally well in a rigorous academic program," Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Patricia Pike said. "Our Dean's List students are bright, motivated, engaged, competent, and personable. They are already demonstrating the characteristics of success that results from applied intelligence and that will support future endeavors in society, community, career, and family life."

Biola's grade point average requirement for the Dean's list is one of the highest among Southern California Christian Universities.

Biola University, an "Up and Coming" university according to U.S. News & Word Report, is a private Christian university located in Southern California on the border of Los Angeles and Orange counties in the city of La Mirada. For more than 100 years, Biola has remained committed to its biblical foundation, integrating biblical principles with every academic program. U.S. News recognizes Biola as a "National University," which is considered the "major leagues" of higher education. In addition to its focus on intentional spiritual development and career preparation, Biola offers a unique academic environment where all faculty, staff and students are professing Christians. With the highest enrollment in Biola's history of 6,250 students, the school offers 145 academic programs in six schools and degrees ranging from B.A. to Ph.D. For more information, visit www.biola.edu or call (562) 777 - 4061.

On the web: http://readabout.me/achievements/Michelle-Welke-Named-to-Dean-s-List-at-Biola-University/3128583.

06 Dec 2011

Hannah Oak Named to Illinois College Cheerleading Squad

By readMedia

JACKSONVILLE, IL (11/30/2011)(readMedia)-- Hannah Oak, a sophomore, is a member of the 2011-2012 Illinois College Cheerleading Squad.

Oak, a graduate of Rockridge High School, is the daughter of Kevin and Cynthia Oak of Taylor Ridge.

The cheerleaders promote school spirit at football and basketball games on campus.

Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success.

On the web: http://readabout.me/achievements/Hannah-Oak-Named-to-Illinois-College-Cheerleading-Squad/3126288.

06 Dec 2011

Local students participate in Christmas at Augustana

By readMedia

ROCK ISLAND, IL (11/29/2011)(readMedia)-- Augustana presents its fourth annual Christmas at Augustana holiday concert-which has nearly sold out in previous years-on Friday, Dec. 2, at 8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 3, at 4 p.m. in Centennial Hall (3703 7th Ave.). More than 300 students in the college's choirs, brass ensemble and orchestra will join together to share music with audience members in what promises to be a warm and memorable holiday experience for all.

From your area this includes:

Hannah Barney, a Junior from Bettendorf, Iowa, majoring in Business Administration-Marketing/Communication Studies.

Elizabeth Kuster, a Sophomore from Bettendorf, Iowa, majoring in Creative Writing.

Anthony TouVelle, a First Year from Bettendorf, Iowa, majoring in Undecided.

Kaleigh Wall, a Junior from Eldridge, Ill., majoring in Art.

Steven Ray Trent, a Sophomore from Eldridge, Iowa, majoring in Geology.

Ashley Finley, a Sophomore from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Music Education Instrumental.

Peter Wiese, a Junior from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Neuroscience/Mathematics.

Guy Iaccarino, a Senior from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Music General/Anthropology.

Abigail Jones, a Sophomore from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Biology/Environmental Studies.

Rickey Rector, a Junior from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Nick Kendell, a Sophomore from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Undecided.

Ingrid Schneider, a First Year from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Undecided.

Benjamin Knapper, a First Year from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Undecided.

Adam Bengfort, a First Year from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Undecided.

Christine Harb, a First Year from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Undecided.

Manisha Kumar, a Junior from Davenport, Iowa, majoring in Biology/Pre-Medicine.

Anne VanSpeybroek, a Junior from Rock Island, Ill., majoring in Music Performance- Instrumental.

Timothy Murga, a Senior from Rock Island, Ill., majoring in Biology.

Monica Hill, a Sophomore from Carbon Cliff, Ill., majoring in Business Administration-Advising.

Lindsey Sikorski, a First Year from East Moline, Ill., majoring in Undecided.

Samantha McGreer, a First Year from Illinois City, Ill., majoring in Undecided.

Samantha Kammerman, a First Year from Milan, Ill., majoring in Undecided.

Laurel Williams, a Senior from Milan, Ill., majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders/English.

Jacob McManus, a First Year from Reynolds, Ill., majoring in Undecided.

Lauren Reid, a Senior from Sherrard, Ill., majoring in Business Administration- Marketing/Communication Studies.

Elyzia Powers, a First Year from Silvis, Ill., majoring in Undecided.

Jennifer Youngs, a Senior from Taylor Ridge, Ill., majoring in Psychology/Political Science.

Megan Keller, a Senior from Taylor Ridge, Ill., majoring in Communication Studies.

Christmas at Augustana is one of a series of performances planned for the Christmas season. The Handel Oratorio Society, a choir that combines the vocal talents of Augustana students and Quad-City community members, along with the professional Handel Oratorio Society Chamber Orchestra and guest soloists, will perform Handel's Messiah on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. in continuation of an annual tradition. The event will be held in Centennial Hall (3703 7th Ave.).

Tickets for both Christmas at Augustana and Messiah are available at www.augustana.edu/tickets or by calling (309) 794-7306.

The Augustana Chamber Singers and the Office of Campus Ministries will present Lessons and Carols on Thursday, Dec. 15, at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. This beautiful Advent service chronicles the preparation of Christ's birth through songs and readings in Ascension Chapel (on campus at 820 38th St.). The event is free and open to the public.

Pages

Subscribe & Listen to Reader Podcasts

On Stands Now

 

Tagged Content

Two Ways to Subscribe

1. Subscribe to free weekly e-mail content updates.

You'll get both the current official narrative challenge and What's Happenin' in the Quad Cities.
(Did you know we publish a new Amy Alkon Advice Goddess, Real Astrology, Red Meat cartoon and RCR Crossword every week?) 

* indicates required

View previous campaigns.

2. Get 12 monthly issues mailed first class for $48

Get 12 issues mailed monthly for $48 per year.

Get the printed Reader edition mailed to you (or anyone you want) first-class for 12 months for $48.
$24 goes to postage and handling, $24 goes to keeping the doors open!

Click this link to Subscribe now.