Rock Island, IL: Families can work together to make a small lighted garland at two Family Craft activities at the Rock Island Southwest Branch on Tuesday and Saturday.

This month's free craft involves making a small lighted garland out of cups, fabric and a light string. Families can register for the 6:00 pm session on Tuesday, August 11 or the 10:00 am session on Saturday, August 15. Both sessions are offered in the Community Room of the Southwest Branch, 9010 Ridgewood Road. The event is free and materials are provided.

To sign up, call 309-732-7338 or use the online registration system on the library calendar at www.rockislandlibrary.org. The Southwest Branch hosts a new craft on the second Tuesday and following Saturday of each month.

For information on other free events, contact Rock Island Library at 309-732-READ (7323), visit the library website at www.rockislandlibrary.org, or follow the library's Facebook and Twitter sites.

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Governor Bruce Rauner announced today he has made appointments to the Secure Choice Savings Plan Board, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority and the State Board of Health.

 

Name: Miriam Martinez

Position: Member - Secure Choice Savings Plan Board

Governor Bruce Rauner has appointed Miriam Martinez to the Secure Choice Savings Plan Board. Martinez is currently the Deputy Treasurer and Chief Investment Officer at the Chicago Treasurer's Office and brings more than 30 years of experience to the position.

In the Chicago Treasurer's Office, Martinez oversees the day-to-day activities of the City Treasurer's portfolio and is responsible for ensuring the city's various portfolios achieve the highest returns while meeting established liquidity needs and investment policy standards. Prior to coming to Chicago, Martinez worked for the New York State Insurance Fund as its Director of Investments. In that position she oversaw a diversified $16 billion portfolio.

Martinez earned her bachelor's degree in economics from Hobart and William Smith Colleges. She lives in Chicago.

 

Name: Maureen Josh

Position: Member - Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority

Governor Bruce Rauner has reappointed DeKalb County Circuit Clerk Maureen Josh to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. Her years of experience in managing court records will provide the board with valuable insight. She also previously served on the ICJIA from 2000-2006.

Josh has been the DeKalb County Circuit Clerk for the past 31 years, where she is the keeper of court records. She manages a team of 35 other clerks, while working with members and agencies of the court system, as well as the general public. Prior to becoming clerk, she worked as a secretary for the DeKalb County State's Attorney.

Josh earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. She lives in Sycamore.

 

Name: Jose Sanchez

Position: Member - State Board of Health

Governor Bruce Rauner has appointed Jose Sanchez to the State Board of Health. Sanchez' 30 years of experience as a hospital administrator and healthcare executive make him an excellent addition to the board.

Sanchez is currently the President and CEO of the Norwegian American Hospital. He oversees the hospital's operation that covers 200 beds and more than 1,000 employees and doctors. In four years, he turned the hospital's net margin from a loss of $4.5 million to a profit of $1 million.

Prior to this, Sanchez worked for Generations+/Northern Manhattan Health Network as its Senior Vice President. The company is one of the largest healthcare networks in the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation.

Sanchez earned his bachelor's degree from City College of New York and his master's degree in social work from Adelphi University. He lives in Chicago.

 

Name: David Banaszynski

Position: Member - State Board of Health

Governor Bruce Rauner has reappointed David Banaszynski to the State Board of Health. He has served on this board since 2012, and brings 18 years of experience in public health to the board.

Banaszynski has worked for the Village of Hoffman Estates since 1997 and is currently a Health Officer. In this role, he inspects a number of establishments and businesses to ensure they're safe for patrons including: child care centers, pools and spas, tanning establishments, and massage therapy centers. He also responds to questions and complaints about common public health issues like lead, radon, mold and West Nile virus.

Banaszynski earned his bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University. He lives in Huntley.

 

Name: Beth Fiorini

Position: Member - State Board of Health

Governor Bruce Rauner has reappointed Beth Fiorini to the State Board of Health. In addition to her experience as a healthcare administrator and nurse, Fiorini has served on this board since 2014.

Fiorini is currently the Public Health Administrator and CEO of the Whiteside County Health Department. In this role, she is responsible for all areas of the public health department and community health center. Prior to this, she was the Director of Nursing.

In addition to her prior service on this board, Fiorini also serves on the Ebola Task Force. She also previously served on the Maternal and Child Health Advisory Board.

Fiorini earned her bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University and her master's degree in hospital administration from the College of St. Francis. She lives in Rock Falls.

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Coal Valley, IL - August 7, 2015 - Late in the day on Thursday, August 6th, 2015, Niabi Zoo staff and the Rock Island County Forest Preserve District received a copy of the "Campaign Positioning, Feasibility and Program Analysis Report" compiled by the McCarthy/Blansett Group LLC on behalf of the Niabi Zoological Society. The report is being forwarded on to all members of the Rock Island County Forest Preserve District Commission for review.

In the interim while the study is being reviewed, Niabi Zoo is continuing to move forward with the recommendations outlined in the Five-Year Strategic Action Plan that was published by the consulting firm Schultz & Williams in October 2014 and approved by the Forest Preserve Commission. Schultz & Williams is a nationally recognized consulting firm which has worked with dozens of respected zoos and aquariums from all around the country.

As part of its Strategic Action Plan, Niabi Zoo continues to work toward reaccreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and continually enhance and upgrade Niabi Zoo for the benefit of its visitors and animals. In addition to ongoing improvements, Niabi Zoo is also working to ensure its long-term financial stability by maintaining a responsible fund balance and working with a balanced operating budget year after year.

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All of the volunteers and staff at the Bettendorf Discovery Shop are hoping that you will be able to join us for three days of wild bargains.  Our summer clearance on Friday, August 14th kicks things off, with all clothing half price.  Then on Saturday, August 15th everything in the shop will be half price.  Lastly, will be our Safari Reveal that starts on Monday, August 17Th.

Lion, tiger, giraffe &zebra prints of every kind, it is going to be a jungle in here! Kicking off on Monday, the store will be full of safari printed clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, household accessories, and more.  With a wide variety of styles, sizes and brands the shop will be full of beautiful items for you to search out.  Safari prints are always a fall favorite so be sure to stop by and pick up your wardrobe additions at wild prices!

Thanks to the generosity of the community, the Discovery Shop raises money by selling gently used items donated by individual donors and local businesses.  Helping to make the shop such a success is the staff of wonderful volunteers that donate their time, if you are interested in joining our volunteer team we are always happy to have extra hands to help.   All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society for cancer research, education, patient services and advocacy.

Donations needed and welcomed anytime the shop is open and a tax receipt is always available.  Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm., Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm. and Saturday from10 am to 4 pm.

We are thankful for all the wonderful donations and excited to have this wild event for our customers. Watch for a Safari Event preview on Sunday, August 16th on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/qcdiscoveryshop
LECLAIRE, Iowa - The cities of LeClaire, Iowa and Port Byron, Illinois are preparing for their unique 3-day event that is unlike any festival anywhere else in the USA.  It's called Tug Fest and runs August 13-15.
Tug Fest includes live bands, carnival rides, great food, a grand parade, 5K run and the greatest fireworks spectacular in the two-state area. What makes Tug Fest truly unique is the fact that it is the only Tug-of-War event in the country that spans two states and crosses the Mississippi River. LeClaire, Iowa's theme this year is "Safari", and "Tug for a Cause" proceeds go to King Harvest Pet Rescue.
On the August 15th from 12:30-3:00 PM, barge traffic and pleasure boats will yield the right of way to a 2,400 foot long, 680 pound rope that stretches across the river between the two towns. Eleven teams from each side compete against each other trying to gain advantage by pulling in the most feet of rope within 3 minutes. The town with the most winning teams receives the coveted "Alabaster Eagle in Flight" trophy and bragging rights for that year.
This year's festival kicks off on Thursday, August 13th with Family Night and free admission to the LeClaire Levee area. For $20 you will receive a wristband for unlimited carnival rides that evening. Friday, August 14th is the grand parade and fireworks spectacular, and Saturday, August 15th is all about tugging.  Illinois leads the competition with 17 winning years over Iowa's 11.  Admission to the LeClaire Levee is $5 on Friday and Saturday.
For more information and a complete Tug Fest schedule, please visit: www.tugfest.com
Situated at the intersection of I-80 and Hwy. 67 just north of the Quad Cities, LeClaire offers a complete shopping and dining experience. Relax along the scenic streets of this historic river town that exudes turn-of-the-century charm. LeClaire has great events including First Friday, weekly Farmer's Market, car shows, and the Tug Fest in August. Attractions include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Antique Archaeology - "Home of the American Pickers", Wide River Winery and The Mississippi River Distilling Co. Nature lovers enjoy the scenery at Lock and Dam #14 - bald eagles in the winter and pelicans during the spring and fall. For more information: www.visitleclaire.com

Tug Fest - LeClaire, Iowa Contact:
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CHICAGO - Governor Bruce Rauner took action today on the following bills:

 

Bill No.: HB 227

An Act Concerning Transportation

Action: Veto

Effective Date: Immediate

Note: Veto Message Below

 

Bill No.: HB 2495

An Act Concerning Safety

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: HB 3234

An Act Concerning Wildlife

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: HB 3674

An Act Concerning Wildlife

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: HB 3692

An Act Concerning Education

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: HB 4029

An Act Concerning Regulation

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 125

An Act Concerning Agriculture

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 376

An Act Concerning Local Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 379

An Act Concerning Local Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 563

An Act Concerning State Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: SB 691

An Act Concerning State Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 806

An Act Concerning Education

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 1408

An Act Concerning Safety

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: SB 1444

An Act Concerning Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 1466

An Act Concerning Regulation

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 1684

An Act Concerning State Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: SB 1735

An Act Concerning Regulation

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 1846

An Act Concerning State Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 1947

An Act Concerning State Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

 

Veto Message for HB 227:

To the Honorable Members of The Illinois House of Representatives, 99th General Assembly:

Today I veto House Bill 227 from the 99th General Assembly.

Current law requires a person using a non-powered watercraft to obtain a water usage stamp from the Department of Natural Resources, which is available for $6 per year. This bill would exempt "a non-resident operating a non-powered watercraft while engaged in a paddling event or race."

Tourism is an important economic driver for Illinois, and I appreciate non-residents who come to Illinois to enjoy sporting events. The Department of Natural Resources has committed to working with event organizers to ensure that the organizers are able to sell stamps to participants on the day of the race.

While we work to make compliance more convenient and efficient, I do not support exempting one particular group of non-residents, particularly when Illinois residents are not being exempted.

Therefore, pursuant to Section 9(b) of Article IV of the Illinois Constitution of 1970, I hereby return House Bill 227, entitled "AN ACT concerning transportation", with the foregoing objections, vetoed in its entirety.

Sincerely,

Bruce Rauner

GOVERNOR

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Creekside Vineyards 2015 Wine Competition Awards
MID AMERICAN WINE MEDAL WINNERS:
2013 Blushing Bonnie, Moonbeam, Front Porch, & Blossom
INDY INTERNATIONAL MEDAL WINNERS:
2013 Blushing Bonnie, Moonbeam, Front Porch,
Blossom, & Creekside White

8/15: Peaceful Easy Weekend
While we are usually hopping with music, yoga, painting, or a tour, once and awhile we like to give guests a chance to kick back and enjoy the peace and quiet of the country.  It's the perfect weekend to stroll the vineyard, birdwatch, journal, and enjoy company with friends, family, and fabulous vino.
8/16: 12-1pm: Yoga in the Vineyard ($12 drop in)
STAY for a 2pm Vineyard Tour
($10 includes a wine tasting, wine glass, & tour)

WEST BRANCH, IOWA– On Saturday, September 5 join a park ranger for a campfire talk about prairie animals past and present. The multisensory family program will include pelts, sounds, photography from American prairies. The campfire program is free and begins at 7:30 p.m. on the village green at the intersection of Parkside Drive and Main Street in historic downtown West Branch.  Visitors and their families are welcome to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on, and toasting sticks and marshmallows.

Then on Labor Day Monday, September 7 a park ranger leads visitors through the reconstructed 81-acre tallgrass prairie at Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. Learn how and why the National Park Service is reconstructing this endangered habitat as part of the landscape commemorating Herbert Hoover's life.

The walk begins at the tallgrass prairie observation deck by the gravesite parking lot at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. The walk is less than a mile and lasts about 60 minutes. Bring water, dress for the weather, and wear comfortable walking shoes. Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent are also recommended.

On Saturday, September 26, help collect and distribute native plants in the tallgrass prairie at Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. All ages are welcome. Participating volunteers will be rewarded with a coupon for free entry into their favorite federal public land areas that have entrance fees. Contact Denise Collar or Adam Prato at (319) 643-2541 if you are interested.

Meet at the Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m. for an orientation and to get signed up. Work will be from 9:00 a.m. to about 1:00 p.m. Please dress for the weather, and wear comfortable work clothes.  Long pants and closed toe shoes are required.  Bring a water bottle, hat, sunscreen, long sleeved shirt, insect repellent, a snack, and a shopping bag (paper or plastic) or ice cream pail for seed collection.  The park has work gloves and other required tools.

This year the National Park Service launched its "Find Your Park" campaign which begins a two year celebration commemorating its first 100 years of preservation and service to the public. "Find Your Park" is aimed at getting people out to experience all their national parks have to offer and to share their favorite stories about National Parks. Visit www.findyourpark.com to learn more.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum are in West Branch, Iowa at exit 254 off I-80. Both are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. For more information go online at www.nps.gov/heho or call (319) 643-2541.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

110 Parkside Drive

PO Box 607

West Branch, Iowa 52358

319 643-2541 phone

319 643-7864 fax

www.nps.gov/heho

Twitter: @HooverNPS

Facebook: HerbertHooverNHS

August 7, 2015 - This morning is the first day of business for Cornerstone Family Dentistry, at 1304 Brady Street, in the heart of the Hilltop Campus Village.

Dr. Melinda Hochgesang, DMD, said that they will be open every Friday until mid-September, at which point they'll be open full-time. Dr. Hochgesang is a general practitioner of Dentistry, with a specialization for small children and for babies.

The building has been undergoing renovation for sometime, and has a nice open feel. It was formerly owned and occupied by Davenport Dentures, Ltd., whose owner recently retired.

The facility offers ample parking and is conveniently located adjacent to Red Band Coffee, across the street from St. John's Methodist Church and Townsquare Media.

"This is a great addition for the Hilltop Campus Village, one that will be appreciated by the many residents living in these growing commercial corridors", said Scott Tunnicliff, Drector of the Hilltop Campus Village. "We have been in touch with the new owners for a couple months, providing some counsel on matters of Signage and the availability of financial resources for façade improvement through the Hilltop Association's Self-Sustaining Municipal Improvement District (SSMID).

"Our specialty with kids and babies is going to be of real interest to folks in the Quad Cities", said Dr. Hochgesang. "We anticipate a lot of customers because of that and due to our high visibility. This is a great location for us, and we anticipate becoming a meaningful partner within the Hilltop community."

More information may be gathered by contacting Scott Tunnicliff at 563 370 2098. For appointments, contact Cornerstone Family Dentistry, 563 - 231 - 5990, MindyHochgesang@gmail.com.
Spin Zone Bumper Cars from Amusement Products will be added to the K&K Hardware Kids Zone
DAVENPORT, Iowa (August 7, 2015) - Already home to award-winning improvements and amusements rides, Modern Woodmen Park will give its guests another unique thrill, as the Spin Zone Bumper Cars had their ribbon cutting Friday at the ballpark. A set of five cars have been installed in the K&K Hardware Kids Zone adjacent to the Party Plaza down the first-base line at Modern Woodmen Park.
The bumper cars add to a fun-packed lineup of amusements that includes the Ferris wheel atop the berm in left field, the Mediacom Drop'N Twist and Space Camp in the Party Plaza, as well as the dual zip line that operates on South Gaines Street outside the ballpark on game days.
Each of the Spin Zone Bumper Cars from Amusement Products seat one driver, who controls the car with a lever on each side of the car. The drivers can bump their cars into one another, and for added excitement, if a driver hits another car on one of its Spin Zone Targets, that car will be sent into three 360-degree revolutions while it flashes LED lights - showing other drivers the car has been hit. The ride operator can also add to the fun with Chaos Mode that sends all cars into similar spins.
"Every kid loves bumper cars, so the Spin Zone Bumper Cars make a great addition to the Modern Woodmen Park amusements lineup," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "Now, for the first time at any ballpark, our fans can create their own amusement experience - by driving the Spin Zone Bumper Cars, sending other cars into crazy spins, and delighting riders and viewers with a light show and unpredictable - and unforgettable - fun!"
The amusements are open during all River Bandits home games, normally beginning 60 minutes before the scheduled first pitch. The Ferris wheel is also open every Saturday - weather permitting - from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., as well as Saturday non-game days 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Spin Zone Bumper Cars will cost five tickets. Fans can purchase tickets for $1 each or buy 25 tickets for $20

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