18 Aug 2015

Moline Municipal Cart facelifts go into Phase Two!

By Ronna Walker-Johnson
Moline, Illinois / July 17th, 2015 - Beginning August 24th, 2015 residents of Moline will start seeing Phase Two of the implementation of new lids on their municipal carts. Just as in Phase One residents will notice a secondary truck trailing their regular waste removal team and installing a new media platform to the top of the lids.

The new media platform will display information and special offers from local businesses, organizations and charities. Some of the exceptional business partners include; Genesis Health Systems, Crawford HVAC and Trevor Hardware. Home owners and those interacting with the lid also gain opportunities for free gifts and services.

Philip Bonello, President/CEO/Founding Partner says, "I encourage residents to check out all the new lids and interact with our new "Surprizely" app for a chance to win FREE pizza!"

On average, a homeowner physically interacts with their municipal cart approximately 6 to 10 times per week. In each of those homes, an average of 2.5 people will come in contact with the cart; either placing waste bags within the cart or wheeling it out curbside for waste removal.

Doug House, City of Moline adds, "We have already been receiving a lot of positive feedback and this new lid gives us a way to extend our community outreach and keep our citizens informed."

Members of the press may schedule an appointment for additional information, product demonstration, and personal interview by calling or emailing Ronna Walker-Johnson at (309) 786-5142 or Ronna@medialinkinc.com.
###
18 Aug 2015

QUAD CITIES RANKED NO. 1 MINOR LEAGUE MARKET

By Marco LaNave
Quad Cities market vaults from No. 48 in 2013 to the top spot in biennial rankings by Sports Business Journal
DAVENPORT, Iowa/MOLINE, Ill. (August 17, 2015) - When it comes to minor league sports, there is no place like the Quad Cities. The bi-state region joined by the Mississippi River is the No. 1 minor league sports market in the country, according to the Sports Business Journal in its latest biennial ranking of more than 229 communities coast to coast that are home to 386 teams and 48 leagues in the sports industry.
Home to the Quad City Mallards, ECHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild in Moline, Ill., and the Quad Cities River Bandits, Midwest League Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros in Davenport, Iowa, the Quad Cities leaped from the No. 86 ranking in 2011 and the No. 48 ranking in 2013 to claim the top spot, according to the Sports Business Journal's announcement on Monday.
"The Quad Cities scored well in every facet of our study," said SportsBusiness Journal research director David Broughton. "The fans continue to come to the games, the facilities are constantly updated and the clubs each have a long tenure. It's really the perfect combination for our study."
"This rating shows how vital sports are to Quad Cities economic development by being a cool, creative, and prosperous region and destination," said Joe Taylor, President/CEO of the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau and chair of Quad Cities Sports Commission. "Room nights attributed to sports are more than half of all new hotel room nights generated in the Quad Cities, one reason our community benefits from and is able to support an ever growing inventory of hotel rooms."
QUAD CITIES RIVER BANDITS
Since their first season under Main Street Baseball's ownership in 2008, the River Bandits have drawn nearly two million fans to Modern Woodmen Park, making it the most successful run in the region's proud sports history. Under Main Street Baseball, per-game attendance has increased nearly 75 percent. Last season, the River Bandits drew 3,885 fans per home game - setting a per-game attendance record for the franchise - and the team is currently on track to shatter that record this season. In addition, sponsorships, concession sales, merchandise sales and group sales, as well as revenue from non-baseball events have all more than doubled, and in some cases, quintupled, since Main Street Baseball took over.
To celebrate Monday's announcement, the River Bandits will be selling all general admission tickets to their 7 p.m. game Wednesday for just one dollar each at Modern Woodmen Park, which was voted the No. 1 Minor League Ballpark in a 2013 USA TODAY and 10Best.com poll.
"I have long said that the best fans in the world are right here in the Quad Cities, and having our market ranked the best minor league sports market in the country is another validation of that," said River Bandits owner Dave Heller. "This award is a testament to the special symbiotic relationship that our club has with the City of Davenport and the Mallards have with Moline and the State of Illinois; the Quad Cities earned this ranking because of the way the community has supported us and the way they have partnered with their teams to invest in their facilities. I love that our fans can see a game in the number one minor league ballpark in America in the number one minor league sports market in America - and Wednesday they can do it for just one dollar!"
The River Bandits' success under Main Street Baseball, and the number of awards and accolades the team and its ballpark have earned in the past seven-and-a-half seasons has been unprecedented in Minor League Baseball. Four times in the past seven seasons, Modern Woodmen Park has been recognized by Ballpark Digest with the nation's Best Ballpark Improvement award. This year, the team's name was voted one of the top eight in Minor League Baseball in a Sporting News contest. In May, the team's logo was voted among the top eight - and best in the Midwest League - in Baseball America's Logo Mania, and Modern Woodmen Park's R.I.A. Federal Credit Union Hon. Lane Evans Patriot Seats were voted the No. 2 Best Seats at any minor league ballpark in the country - and the top view of any ballpark at the Class-A and short season level - by fans on MiLB.com. In June, fans voted Modern Woodmen Park the "Best of the Ballparks" in a Ballpark Digest contest featuring all 30 Class-A ballparks. Recently, the team's was cap voted among the top three in Minor League Baseball - and best of any Class-A club. The club also recently won a Golden Bobblehead Award recognizing the best promotions in Minor League Baseball and has been nominated for another this season.
No minor league baseball team has played in an older ballpark for longer than the Quad Cities Midwest League franchise (begun in 1960) has played in Modern Woodmen Park along the Mississippi River in Davenport. The venue opened in 1931 as Davenport Municipal Stadium (1931-1971) and was later known as John O'Donnell Stadium (1971-2007).
"By improving local venues and giving unprecedented support to teams that offer affordable, family-friendly entertainment, people across the Quad Cities region and their leaders have proven why this is the top minor league market in the country," said River Bandits General Manager Andrew Chesser. "The River Bandits are blessed to play at Modern Woodmen Park, where the community has given outstanding support and development. We look forward to celebrating the No. 1 minor league market with one-dollar admission on Wednesday at the ballpark!"
Currently holding the best record in Class-A baseball, the River Bandits have already clinched a playoff spot for the fourth time in six seasons by winning the Midwest League Western Division first-half title. The Quad Cities franchise has won six Midwest League Championships, including two in the last four seasons. The team will begin this season's playoffs on Sept. 9.
QUAD CITY MALLARDS
A series of successes both on and off the ice has enabled the Mallards to do their part in propelling the Quad Cities to the top of the biennial survey. The Mallards' season ticket base has more than doubled in the last two seasons while weekend attendance at the iWireless Center increased by 25 percent in 2014-15. In addition, the team's group ticket sales increased by a whopping 50 percent last season.
"We acquired the team because we believed in the Quad Cities market and we're thrilled to see the strides we've made validate that belief," said Jordan Melville, director of QCM Holdings, the Mallards' ownership group.  "We're looking forward to continuing to work with the Quad Cities community to continue to grow the Mallards and we remain committed to putting a product on the ice our fans can be proud of."
The Mallards' upswing began shortly after QCM Holdings' assumption of ownership in 2012 and the arrival of team president Bob McNamara in 2013 and continued last season when the club moved to the ECHL, the premier "AA" hockey league in North America.
"It's a tremendous honor for the Quad Cities to be named the top minor league market in the nation," said McNamara.  "It's a testament to the great support we've received from the fans of the Quad Cities area and their commitment to their teams.  This is also a wonderful validation for the hard work we've put in as an organization over the last couple of years and the significant improvements we've seen as a result."
The Mallards have provided fans thronging to the iWireless Center with plenty to cheer about by making three consecutive playoff appearances since Terry Ruskowski took over as the team's coach and general manager in 2012.
"It's amazing to see how far these teams have come in the ten years I have been here in the Quad Cities area," said iWireless Center executive director Scott Mullen. "Especially in recent years with two top notch team owners who have both gone all out for this community. Jordan Melville and Dave Heller have really built something to be proud of and we are all extremely fortunate for the investment that these two sports- and business-savvy professionals have made in the Quad Cities."
The iWireless Center is known throughout the country as being a first class arena and has done a remarkable job in continually updating the facility. The venue is currently in the process of adding brand new lower bowl seating, a food court, installing additional restrooms, upgrading the arena lighting, constructing a new box office and lobby all to be completed prior to the upcoming season.
The Mallards will begin their nineteenth regular season on the road against the Allen Americans on Friday, October 16 before returning to the iWireless Center to play their home opener on Friday, October 23 against the Tulsa Oilers.
QUOTES FROM QUAD CITIES LEADERS
Below are comments on the Quad Cities' No. 1 minor league market ranking from local and regional leaders on both sides of the Mississippi River:
Bill Gluba, Mayor, City of Davenport, through his office issued the following statement with respect to the Quad Cities named the No. 1 minor league market in the nation: "This is yet another example of the Quad Cities and Davenport receiving fantastic national recognition.  It puts us on the map and helps to keep moving Davenport forward." The Mayor said tourism brings in $800 million and supports some 7,000 full- and part-time jobs in the hospitality and tourist industry.  He commended Joe Taylor, Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau, Dave Heller with the River Bandits, and Bob Hoffman with the Mallards for their outstanding work. This is yet another milestone and accomplishment for the Quad Cities.
Scott Raes, Mayor, City of Moline: "As a life long resident of Moline, I am proud to be a part of the Quad Cities #1 minor league sport ranking. I have been enjoying ball games in Davenport for over 50 years. Quad Cities fans have always been great and now this proves it. Way to go QC!"
Tara Barney, President/CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber: "As the Quad Cities competes in a global market for top talent, quality of place is more important than ever. The vibrant sports scene in the Quad Cities, along with the many other arts, culture, and entertainment amenities that residents have to choose from, adds to the draw of the Quad Cities. We're extremely proud of the great work that the River Bandits and the Mallards are doing in our community."
Cory M. Jobe, Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism: "Being ranked the '#1 Minor League Sports Market' in the nation by Sports Business Journal is a well-deserved honor for the Quad Cities. This ranking is the result of years of hard work and collaboration by those who truly understand the role sports and tourism play in driving economic development for the region. For the Quad Cities, the results are helping to improve the quality of life for residents on both sides of the Mississippi."
18 Aug 2015

Local students elected to Central College leadership positions

By J. E. Hodges

PELLA, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- The following Central College students have been elected to Student Senate positions:

Daniel Dankert of Davenport has been elected Parliamentarian.

Karl Weaver of Davenport has been elected senator.

Founded in 1853, Central College of Pella, Iowa, is a private, residential four-year liberal arts college known for its academic rigor and strength in global experiential learning, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), sustainability education, athletics success and tradition, and leadership and service. Central continues to value its long-standing relationship with the Reformed Church in America that began in 1916. The college participates in NCAA Division III athletics and is a member of the Iowa Conference. Central is an active part of the Greater Des Moines region and just two minutes from Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake.

18 Aug 2015

Governor Takes Bill Action 8/17/2015

By Catherine Kelly

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Bruce Rauner took action today on the following bills:

 

Bill No.: HB 3149

An Act Concerning State Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: HB 3203

An Act Concerning Local Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: HB 3341

An Act Concerning Safety

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: HB 3475

An Act Concerning Criminal Law

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: HB 3592

An Act Concerning Public Employee Benefits

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: HB 3616

An Act Concerning Regulation

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: HB 3746

An Act Concerning Motor Vehicles

Action: Vetoed

Note: Veto Message Below

 

Bill No.: SB 209

An Act Concerning Criminal Law

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 844

An Act Concerning Criminal Law

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

Bill No.: SB 1470

An Act Concerning Local Government

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: SB 1782

An Act Concerning Insurance

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediate

 

Bill No.: SB 1806

An Act Concerning Regulation

Action: Signed

Effective Date: January 1, 2016

 

 

 

Veto Message HB3746

 

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

Today I veto House Bill 3746 from the 99th General Assembly, which would impose new and unnecessary burdens on used car dealers, single out only some dealers in the market, and drive up the cost of used cars in Illinois.

Since at least 1968, the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act has established certain standards to protect car buyers from "lemon" purchases. The Act, which applies to both new car dealers and used car dealers, assigns liability to the dealer for repairs to defective engine and other power train components within the first 30 days after the sale. The Act also permits a dealer to sell a car as-is, without warranty, as long as the dealer conspicuously informs the seller prior to and at the time of sale.

House Bill 3746 would require every used car dealer - but not new car dealers that sell used cars or private sellers - to provide a warranty of merchantability for 15 days or 500 miles. The required warranty is not limited to power train components, but applies to any defect that could limit its use "for the ordinary purpose of transportation on any public highway." This requirement is both overly-broad and ambiguous.

A significant proportion of used car sales in Illinois are as-is. Many used car dealers do not provide warranties for all or a portion of their sales, while others may offer service contracts instead of dealer warranties. Requiring warranties, therefore, would necessarily increase the cost of used cars, hurting low-income Illinoisans the most.

Even if the requirements of House Bill 3746 were good policy, the bill singles out only used car dealers, exempting new car dealers that sell used cars. As noted above, the current Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act applies to both used car dealers and new car dealers. But this bill would apply only to used car dealers, even though new car dealers sell a large portion of used cars.

Protecting consumers from fraudulent practices and defective goods is important. But this bill would discriminately impose a significant mandate on an important industry without having first established a compelling need. We must end the cycle of regulation and taxation that hurts our economy, suppresses job creation, and costs the State valuable revenues.

Therefore, pursuant to Section 9(b) of Article IV of the Illinois Constitution of 1970, I hereby return House Bill 3746, entitled "AN ACT concerning motor vehicles", with the foregoing objections, vetoed in its entirety.

Sincerely,

Bruce Rauner

GOVERNOR
18 Aug 2015

Downtown Bettendorf Bash, Saturday, August 22, 2015

By Meredith Dennis

Saturday, August 22, 2015 is the first "Downtown Bettendorf Bash."  In conjunction with K&K Hardware's 75th Anniversary Celebration, Downtown Bettendorf will open for an all day party, ending with the Night Ranger Concert at Waterfront Convention Center and an after party at Purgatory's Pub.

Events kick off Saturday morning at K&K Hardware, starting at 10:00. K&K will provide food, and fun for the entire family, until 3:00pm to help celebrate turning 75! Starting at Noon, the State Street Market will open.  Vendors will be set up across from the Waterfront Convention Center, for shoppers to explore.  Also, starting at noon, Purgatory's Pub will host a bags tournament.  These events end at 5:00, but the fun is not over. Purgatory's will host an outdoor concert, featuring the Band "Bleach," starting at 6:30pm.  Then folks can head over to the Waterfront Convention Center to catch Night Ranger, and before they head home, stop by Purgatory's for the Band, "Divebomb."

Space is still available for Vendors, just go to www.downtownbettendorf.org and click on the State Street Market Application.  Booth space is just $15.00 for one 10x10 space, or $25 for two.

"We are looking forward to a great event to Celebrate K&K and Downtown Bettendorf," said Event Planner Meredith Dennis.

For more information on the event contact Meredith Dennis at downtownbettendorfevents@yahoo.com or 563-676-9472.
18 Aug 2015

New opinion research shows biodiesel matters in presidential election

By Randy Stalsberg

Iowa Biodiesel Board releases data showing 76 percent of voters support expanding biodiesel in Renewable Fuel Standard

ANKENY, Iowa - As the parade of presidential hopefuls continues at the Iowa State Fair this week, the Iowa Biodiesel Board reminds them just how important biodiesel is to the state's voters.

According to the group's annual independent public opinion research, the state trade association said today 76 percent of voters in Iowa widely support expanding the Renewable Fuel Standard to increase biodiesel use in the United States.

The majority of voters surveyed also said a presidential candidate's view on the RFS is important to their vote.

Grant Kimberley, executive director of the Iowa Biodiesel Board, said a candidate's support for renewable fuels should be a central campaign issue, both in Iowa and beyond.

"Growing a diverse, domestic energy supply is one of the most critical challenges our nation faces," Kimberley said. "There are many foreign security threats today, which only strengthen the argument for domestic fuel production. The RFS has helped us move in that direction, but it's a policy constantly under threat. Where the next president stands on this matters to voters."

The IBB has reached out to several campaign leaders, inviting candidates from both parties to tour one of the state's 12 biodiesel plants. The group plans to share the voter data with the campaigns.

"As a sustainable, commercially available advanced biofuel with economic and environmental benefits, biodiesel is a shining success in what America's innovative farmers and small business community can achieve in energy production," Kimberley said.

Iowa is the top biodiesel-producing state, supporting 4,376 full-time equivalent jobs.

A professional public opinion research firm, Moore Information, conducted the online survey of 500 Iowans in late July.

Biodiesel is made from a variety of resources including soybean oil, recycled cooking oil and animal fats. The Iowa Biodiesel Board is a nonpartisan state trade association representing the biodiesel industry.

18 Aug 2015

Gov. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Reynolds Announce Iowa Culture App

By Jeff Morgan

Free mobile app features more than 3,500 arts, history and cultural destinations in Iowa

 

(DES MOINES) - Iowa Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds announced today the launch of Iowa Culture, a new interactive mobile app that puts the largest, most comprehensive statewide collection of Iowa arts, history and cultural destinations in the palm of your hand.

"I travel to all 99 counties every year, so I know these destinations are points of pride that connect Iowans and visitors to the stories of Iowa," Branstad said. "I am very pleased we now have this fun and interactive tool that helps people discover and experience Iowa's best-kept secrets. I encourage Iowans and others to download Iowa Culture and use it today."

"The Iowa Culture app not only serves as a marketing and promotional tool, it also offers life-long learning opportunities for people of all ages and across all generations as they discover and experience Iowa," Reynolds said. "I am especially pleased this project aligns with our STEM initiative by showcasing the use of digital technology as an educational tool, while connecting Iowans with even more opportunities to learn across Iowa.  I join Governor Branstad in encouraging Iowans to download it and use it today."

The Iowa Culture app includes more than 3,500 historic sites, arts experiences and cultural destinations, including sites on the National Register of Historic Places, museums, historic schools and theaters, performing art centers, public art, and science and nature sites.

Through the app, people can plan vacations, weekend getaways and daytrips all across Iowa with a simple search by category or subcategory, keyword, or destinations in their immediate vicinity. Users can also filter their search by town and view destinations as far as 50 miles or as close as one mile to the chosen town. They can also create their own tours or explore featured tours included in the app.

The department began working on the app in 2013 when it recognized Iowa needed a comprehensive inventory of arts, history and cultural destinations. In 2014, the department hosted 30 Community Conversations across the state to ask Iowans for input on local cultural vitality and how the State Historical Building could be a hub for Iowans interested in arts, history, historic preservation and other cultural initiatives.

"During these community conversations, Iowans said they want their communities to be promoted as progressive, innovative and culturally healthy," Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Director Mary Cownie said. "Iowans also said they want to increase awareness of and ensure greater sustainability for Iowa's hidden gems. The Iowa Culture app delivers on those requests by giving people information they can use to discover and explore all of the cultural amenities that Iowa has to offer."

The Iowa Culture was developed by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs and is free and compatible with most iPhones and Android Smartphones. It is available for download by searching "Iowa Culture" in the Apple and Google Play stores.

The Iowa Culture app will continue to grow and evolve as more destinations are identified and added. Iowans are encouraged to suggest a place, submit photos, provide feedback and get more information by visiting www.iowacultureapp.com.

WIN AN EXCLUSIVE IOWA CULTURE EXPERIENCE

 

In conjunction with today's announcement, the Department of Cultural Affairs is launching the Iowa Culture Selfie Contest.

Iowans and others are invited to share their most creative selfie at any of the destinations on Iowa Culture and share it on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with #iowaculture for a chance to win exclusive experiences and getaways to some of Iowa's unique cultural destinations.

Visit www.iowacultureapp.com for details and official rules.

Share your experiences using #iowaculture.

Facebook: iowaculture

Twitter: @iowaculture

Instagram: @iowaculture

 

###
18 Aug 2015

News from the Iowa State Fair 8/17/2015

By Mindy Williamson

Howell Wins Iowa State Fair Breeding Sheep Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- Zachary Howell of Columbus Junction showed the Champion Commercial Ewe in the FFA Breeding Sheep show Friday at the 2015 Iowa State Fair. Howell's ewe topped 259 sheep exhibited by 132 other competitors.

Kaci Keitzer of Mediapolis was awarded Reserve Champion Commercial Ewe.

Additional results below:

Champion Suffolk Ram: Kevin Werner, Grinnell

Reserve Champion Suffolk Ram: Kolton Werner, Grinnell

Champion Suffolk Ewe: Kevin Werner, Grinell

Reserve Champion Suffolk Ewe: Dalten Bierle, Creston

Supreme Champion Suffolk Individual: Kevin Werner, Grinnell

Champion Dorset Ram: Levi Klemish, Calmar

Reserve Champion Dorset Ram: Kolton Werner, Grinnell

Champion Dorset Ewe: Payge Edwards, Monroe

Reserve Champion Dorset Ewe: Delaney Carroll, Avoca

Champion Other Meat Breeds Ram: Zachery Hamilton, Goose Lake

Champion Other Meat Breeds Ewe: Zachery Hamilton, Goose Lake

Reserve Champion Other Meat Breeds Ewe: Austin Hamilton, Goose Lake

Champion Southdown Ewe: Payge Edwards, Monroe

Reserve Champion Southdown Ewe: Payge Edwards, Monroe

Champion Commercial Yearling Ewe: Calvin Stewart, Goose Lake

Reserve Champion Commercial Yearling Ewe: Justin Swanton, Goose Lake

# # #

Best Feeder Calves Awarded in Iowa State Fair Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- Cattle farms from across the Midwest were recognized for their top quality cattle in the Beef Feeder Calf show judged Saturday at the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

Christo Cattle of Albion, Neb., took top honors, winning Grand Champion Market Animal and

Grand Champion Market Heifer titles. Mittag Show Cattle of Prescott showed the Reserve Grand Champion Market Animal and Smith Family Cattle Company of Storm Lake exhibited the Reserve Champion Market Heifer.

Additional results below:

FEEDER CALF

Angus Heifers

1) Buck Creek Cattle, Prescott

2) Brandt Farms, Corning

3) Buck Creek Cattle, Prescott

4) Vanderholm Cattle Co., Villisca

5) Kerrigan Mobley, Diagonal

6) Cole Mobley, Diagonal

Chianina Heifers

1) Moore Show Cattle, Earlham

Chianina Heifers

1) Logan Takes, Lisbon

2) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

3) Bouslog Cattle Company, Harper

4) Horizon Show Cattle, Indianola

Foundation Simmental Heifers

1) Weber Cattle, Pamell

2) Muir Farms, Rippey

3) Tapken Cattle Co., Adel

4) Weber Cattle, Pamell

Foundation Simmental Heifers

1) Jacob and Jeron Koppen, Lakota

2) Smith Show Cattle, Charter Oak

3) Questing Hills Livestock, Afton

Foundation Simmental Heifers

1) Sievers Show Cattle, Dixon

2) Cade Bracker, Underwood

3) Stevenson Farms, Knoxville

4) Richard Siek Family, Blairstown

5) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

Foundation Simmental Heifers

1) Smith Family Cattle Company, Storm Lake

2) Brandt Farms, Corning

3) Puckett Show Cattle, Goose Lake

4) Vanderholm Cattle Co., Villisca

5) Bouslog Cattle Company, Harper

Maine-Anjou Heifers

1) Maine Aim Ranch, Allerton

2) Bormann Show Cattle, Algona

3) LDB Show Cattle, Clinton

4) Irons Farms, Northwood

Maine-Anjou Heifers

1) Macy Schroeder, Pella

2) Camiel Blomme, Brooklyn

3) Maine Aim Ranch, Allerton

Maine-Tainer Heifers

1) Weber Cattle, Pamell

2) Sievers Show Cattle, Dixon

3) Danker Farms, Avoca

4) Smith Show Cattle, Charter Oak

5) Meyer Cattle Company, Rowan

6) Mitchell Family Show Cattle, Charles City

7) Irons Farms, Northwood

Maine-Tainer Heifers

1) Stevenson Farms, Knoxville

2) Maass Show Cattle, Ida Grove

3) Bormann Show Cattle, Algona

4) Lehner Stock Farm, Le Mars

5) Willis Show Cattle, Diagonal

6) JRB Cattle Company, Anamosa

7) Brittain Cattle, Earlham

Maine-Tainer Heifers

1) Maass Show Cattle, Ida Grove

2) Bormann Show Cattle, Algona

3) Anthony Hansen, Hornick

4) Mackenzie Martin, Batavia

5) Cale Martin, Batavia

Maine-Tainer Heifers

1) Maine Aim Ranch, Allerton

2) Nelson Farms, Perry

Shorthorn Plus Heifers

1) Richard Mitchell, Charles City

2) Dick Nichols, Lewis

3) Mallory Bakley, Osceola

4) Horizon Show Cattle, Indianola

Simmental Heifers

1) Richard Siek Family, Blairstown

2) Zach Jamison, Colo

Simmental Heifers

1) Richard Siek Family, Blairstown

2) Paul Pisarik, Solon

3) Hard Luck Cattle Company, Pleasantville

4) Cade Millikin, Hedrick

5) Horizon Show Cattle, Indianola

Simmental Heifers

1) Brandt Farms, Corning

2) Nelson Farms, Perry

3) Jon Schaben, Dunlap

All Other Breeds - Heifers

1) Muir Farms, Rippey

2) KCR Cattle, Charter Oak

3) Kendra Robinson, Tennant

Commercial Heifers

1) Mitchell Family Show Cattle, Charles City

2) Stevenson Farms, Knoxville

3) Double P Cattle Co, Maloy

4) Richardson Family Farms, Lake City

Commercial Heifers

1) Mittag Show Cattle, Prescott

2) Rod Beeler, Truro

3) Jacob and Jeron Koppen, Lakota

4) Mitch Holcomb, Winterset

5) Dylan Schnitker, Alden

Commercial Heifers

1) Danker Farms, Avoca

2) Maci Slater, Shenandoah

3) Moore Show Cattle, Earlham

4) Willis Show Cattle, Diagonal

5) Hard Luck Cattle Company, Pleasantville

Commercial Heifers

1) Matilyn Lautner, Adel

2) Maine Aim Ranch, Allerton

3) Van Gelder Cattle Van Gelder Cattle, Le Mars

4) Brooklyn Buck, Tennant

Market Heifers

1) Meyer Cattle Company, Rowan

2) Downing Show Cattle, Creston

3) Clayton Van Aernam, Exira

4) Lehner Stock Farm, Le Mars

5) Double P Cattle Co, Maloy

6) Brandt Farms, Corning

7) Emma Hay, Maxwell

8) Tapken Cattle Co., Adel

Market Heifers

1) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

2) Smith Family Cattle Company, Storm Lake

3) Schulte Cattle Company, Odebolt

4) Brooklyn Treinen, Marcus

5) Schulte Cattle Company, Odebolt

Chianina Steers

1) Shozeboom Show Cattle, Sioux Center

2) Bormann Show Cattle, Algona

3) Muir Farms, Rippey

4) Audrey Bulecnek, Oxford

5) JRB Cattle Company, Anamosa

Maine-Anjou Steers

1) Mittag Show Cattle, Prescott

2) Downing Show Cattle, Creston

3) Von Glan Cattle Company, Vail

4) Maine Aim Ranch, Allerton

Maine-Anjou Steers

1) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

2) Anthony Hansen, Hornick

3) Brittain Cattle, Earlham

4) Nelson Farms, Perry

Maine-Tainer Steers

1) Camiel Blomme, Brooklyn

2) Maass Show Cattle, Ida Grove

3) Paul Pisarik, Solon

4) Nahkunst Family Cattle Company, Hamburg

5) Tyson Blanchfield, Lohrville

6) Van Gelder Cattle Van Gelder Cattle, Le Mars

Simmental Steers

1) Cade Millikin, Hedrick

2) Horizon Show Cattle, Indianola

3) LDB Show Cattle, Clinton

4) LDB Show Cattle, Clinton

All Other Breeds - Steers

1) Dalton Smith, Charter Oak

2) Walker McDermott, Wiota

3) Tapken Cattle Co., Adel

4) Rasmusson Show Steers, Jefferson

5) Puckett Show Cattle, Goose Lake

6) Mallory Bakley, Osceola

7) Mitchell Family Show Cattle, Charles City

Crossbred Steers

1) Nahkunst Family Cattle Company, Hamburg

2) Conover Club Calves, Adel

3) Dead End Livestock, Colo

4) Double P Cattle Co, Maloy

Crossbred Steers

1) Von Glan Cattle Company, Vail

2) Kallie Burzlaff, Delmar

3) Brandt Farms, Corning

4) Conover Club Calves, Adel

5) Mitch Holcomb, Winterset

Crossbred Steers

1) Anthony Hansen, Hornick

2) Stevenson Farms, Knoxville

3) Delaney Bulechek, Oxford

4) Kerrigan Mobley, Diagonal

5) Nahkunst Family Cattle Company, Hamburg

6) Kade Burzlaff, Delmar

Crossbred Steers

1) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

2) Mittag Show Cattle, Prescott

3) Shozeboom Show Cattle, Sioux Center

4) Dylan Stein, Portmouth

5) Dylan Stein, Portmouth

Chianina Heifer Champion & Reserve

1) Logan Takes, Lisbon

2) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

Foundation Simmental Heifer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Smith Family Cattle Company, Storm Lake

Reserve) Sievers Show Cattle, Dixon

Maine-Anjou Heifer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Macy Schroeder, Pella

Reserve) Camiel Blomme, Brooklyn

Maine-Tainer Heifer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Stevenson Farms, Knoxville

Reserve) Weber Cattle, Pamell

Simmental Heifer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Brandt Farms, Corning

Reserve) Richard Siek Family, Blairstown

Commercial Heifer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Matilyn Lautner, Adel

Reserve) Danker Farms, Avoca

Maine-Anjou Steer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

Reserve) Mittag Show Cattle, Prescott

Crossbred Steer Champion & Reserve

Champion) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb.

Reserve) Mittag Show Cattle, Prescott

Grand Champion & Reserve Breeding Female

Grand) Macy Schroeder, Pella, 1/22/15

Res. Grand) Matilyn Lautner, Adel, 54655

3rd Overall Breeding Female - Sponsored by Brandt Farms

1) Smith Family Cattle Company, Storm Lake, 2/25/15

4th Overall Breeding Female -Sponsored by Mittag Show Cattle

1) Sievers Show Cattle, Dixon, 3/20/15

5th Overall Breeding Female - Sponsored by Sullivan Supply

1) Camiel Blomme, Brooklyn, 1/18/15

3rd Overall Market Animal - Sponsored by Mittag Design

1) Christo Cattle, Albion, Neb., 54702

4th Overall Market Animal - Sponsored by Mittag Show Cattle

1) Dalton Smith, Charter Oak, 54718

5th Overall Market Animal - Sponsored by Sullivan Supply

1) Walker McDermott, Wiota, 551

# # #

FFA Photographer from Eddyville Wins Best of Show at the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- FFA members competed in the Photography contest judged the Thursday prior to the 2015 Iowa State Fair. Marshal Wilz of Eddyville received Best of Show honors while Jay Wessels of Dyersville received the Reserve Best of Show title.

Additional results below:

Black and White/Toned

1) Katie Larkin, Ottumwa

2) Tayler Jones, Eddyville

3) Faith Huebert, Denison

4) Greta Schmidt, Iowa City

5) Darcey Tjaden, Wyoming

Color

1) Jay Wessels, Dyersville

2) Alec Schoof, Primghar

3) Mary Lindsey, Leon

4) Jacob Looney, Wheatland

5) Darcey Tjaden, Wyoming

Animals-Birds-Wildlife

1) Dana Armstrong, Ottumwa

2) Joshua Sunberg, Red Oak

3) Katie Larkin, Ottumwa

4) Morgan VanderHeiden, Wheatland

5) Marshal Wilz, Eddyville

Still Life Compositions

1) Ray Schmidt, Williamsburg

2) Hunter Achenbach, Oakland

3) Morgan Asher, Farmington

4) Hannah Holdsworth, Denison

5) Marshal Wilz, Eddyville

Iowa Landscape

1) Marshal Wilz, Eddyville

2) Hannah Fisher, Coggon

3) Austin Baack, South Amana

4) Claire Jager, Oskaloosa

5) Marshal Wilz, Eddyville

Landscape Outside Iowa

1) Dana Armstrong, Ottumwa

2) Emma Haselhuhn, Eddyville

3) Kennedy Plowman, Adair

4) Vanessa DeBock, West Liberty

5) Kristi Goedken, Earlville

Plants

1) Mikayla Heckman, West Liberty

2) Jordyn Sanders, Bussey

3) Brandon Reed, Ottumwa

4) Brittany Gunn, Jefferson

5) Kaylee Jones, Hawkeye

FFA

1) Ali Oepping, West Liberty

2) Aly Jones, West Liberty

3) Hunter Wilz, Eddyville

4) Savannah Wilz, Eddyville

5) Tanner Powers, Eddyville

Supervised Agricultural Experience

1) Dana Edleman, Cambridge

2) Symantha Fisher, Oakland

3) Katlyn Ruth, Iowa City

4) Elizabeth Hahn, Morning Sun

5) Amanda Crow, Lamont

Agricultural Photo Essay

1) Joshua Sunberg, Red Oak

2) Allyson Hasenlhuhn, Albia

3) Lexie Hudachek, Lone Tree

4) Hannah Fisher, Coggon

5) Celiina Young, Waverly

Contemporary/Creative

1) Katlyn Ruth, Iowa City

2) Amanda Crow, Lamont

3) Calise Hammes, Wilton

4) Alec Schoof, Primghar

5) Tanner Powers, Eddyville

Theme Class

1) Lauren Graeve, Audubon

2) Mary Lindsey, Leon

3) Darcey Tjaden, Wyoming

4) Paige Schebaum, Shenandoah

5) Hunter Wilz, Eddyville

State Exec. Sec./Treasurer's Choice

1) Amber Bonert, Dyersville

# # #

School Chapters Across the State Sweep Iowa State Fair FFA Dairy Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- Michael Lyons of Calmar won Supreme FFA Exhibitor in the FFA Dairy Show judged Saturday at the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

A total of 50 exhibitors from 26 chapters showed 139 animals in this year's competition.

Additional results below:

Top 10 chapters awarded

1) Delhi

2) Calmar

Wilton

3) Goose Lake

Marian

West Union

4) Le grand

5) Decorah

6) Troy Mills

Wapsie Valley

 

# # #

Fabulous FFA Farm Crops Wow Judges at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- Seventy-two FFA members displayed 441 exhibits in the Farm Crops contest judged Thursday at the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

Complete results below:

Premier Exhibit Award

Champion: Celina Young, Waverly

Reserve Champion: Megan Striegel, Thornburg

Sweepstakes Trophy

Champion: Trevor Stevenson, Wheatland

Reserve Champion: Morgan Deidrich, DeWitt

Field Corn

Champion: Samantha Urime, Eldrige

Reserve Champion: Trevor Stevenson, Wheatland

Popcorn

Champion: Amanda Gorzey, Wheatland

Reserve Champion: Andrew Rock, Wheatland

Small Grains, Legumes and Special Crops

Champion: Trevor Stevenson, Wheatland

Reserve Champion: Becca Hermann, Manchester

Soybeans

Champion: Celina Young, Waverly

Reserve Champion: Jamie Glanz, Manchester

Sheaf Grains

Champion: Samantha Urmine, Eldrige

Reserve Champion: Chelsi Bailey, Nashua Plainfield

Forages, Grasses and Legumes

Champion: Megan Striegel, Thornburg

Reserve Champion: Sarah Striegel, Thornburg

Crop Display

Champion: Tanner Powers, Eddyville

Reserve Champion: Marshal Wilz, Eddyville

# # #

'Cream-of-the-Crop' Earns Ribbons in Farm Crop Contest at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- Iowans from all over the state gathered to show off their crops in the Farm Crops contests judged Thursday at the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

Additional results below:

SOYBEANS

Early Soybeans

1) Deb Turnball, Waverly

2) Mary Zelle, Waverly

3) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

4) David Klindt, Bettendorf

5) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

6) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Mid Season Soybeans

1) Deb Turnball, Waverly

2) Kevin Glanz, Manchester

3) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

4) David Klindt, Bettendorf

5) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

6) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Late Season Soybeans

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

2) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

3) Oxford Farms, Cambridge

4) Deb Turnball, Waverly

5) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

6) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Specialty Food Soybean

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

2) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

Soybean Bundles

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

3) David Klindt, Bettendorf

4) Mary Zelle, Waverly

5) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

6) Thomas Huck, Waverly

Soybeans - Sweepstakes

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

Soybeans - First Place Overall (Classes 40-42)

1) Deb Turnball, Waverly

Soybeans - First Place Overall (Class 43)

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

SHEAF GRAINS

Barley in the Straw

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Brome Grass for Seed

1) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

3) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

4) Mary Zelle, Waverly

Millet for Seed

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Early Oats

1) Thomas Huck, Waverly

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

3) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

4) David Klindt, Bettendorf

Mid Season Oats

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Thomas Huck, Waverly

3) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

4) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Late Season Oats

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Oats, any other

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Deb Turnball, Waverly

3) Mary Zelle, Waverly

Orchard Grass

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

3) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

Rye in Straw

1) David Klindt, Bettendorf

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

3) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

4) Deb Turnball, Waverly

Grain Sorghum

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Timothy for Seed

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

3) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

4) Mary Zelle, Waverly

Spring Wheat in Straw

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

3) Mary Zelle, Waverly

4) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

Winter Wheat in Straw

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

3) Deb Turnball, Waverly

4) Mary Zelle, Waverly

Sheaf Grains - Sweepstakes

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

FORAGES, GRASSES & LEGUMES

Alfalfa

1) David Klindt, Bettendorf

2) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

3) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

4) John Reilly, Redfield

Alsike Clover

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

3) John Reilly, Redfield

4) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

Birdsfoot Trefoil

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Mary Zelle, Waverly

3) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

4) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

Smooth Bromegrass

1) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

3) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Medium Red Clover

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

3) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

4) Deb Turnball, Waverly

Millet

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Orchard Grass

1) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

2) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

3) Mary Zelle, Waverly

4) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Reed Canarygrass

1) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

2) Mary Zelle, Waverly

3) John Reilly, Redfield

4) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Sudan

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Sweetclover

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

2) Deb Turnball, Waverly

3) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

4) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

Timothy

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

2) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

3) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

4) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

Any Other

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

3) Mary Zelle, Waverly

4) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Forages, Grasses & Legumes - Sweepstakes

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

SMALL GRAINS & LEGUMES

Early Oats

1) Thomas Huck, Waverly

2) David Klindt, Bettendorf

3) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

4) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Mid Season Oats

1) Lynne Pfantz, State Center

2) Thomas Huck, Waverly

3) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

4) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Late Season Oats

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) David Klindt, Bettendorf

3) Dean Stormer, Bridgewater

Oats - Any Other Officially Recognized Variety

1) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

2) David Klindt, Bettendorf

3) Dwight Sanders, Vinton

4) Mary Zelle, Waverly

Red Clover Seed

1) Ginger Werner, Chelsea

2) Chuck Werner, Chelsea

Spring Wheat

1) Mary Zelle, Waverly

2) Deb Turnball, Waverly

3) Ronald Zelle, Waverly

Winter Wheat

1) David Klindt, Bettendorf

2) Jay Van Wert, Hampton

Any Other

1) David Klindt, Bettendorf

# # #

FFA Ag Mechanics Competition Revs-Up Its Engine at the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/17/2015)(readMedia)-- Restored tractors and metal working topped off the Ag Mechanics competition judged Friday at the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

Entries were judged on the basis of workmanship, design, usefulness, appearance and safety.

Complete results below:

Restored Tractor 1958 & Prior: Nathan Krull, Decorah

Restored Tractor 1959 & Later: Jacob Miller, Eldridge

Restored Tractor by First Year Exhibitor: Kayle Ausdemore, Neola

Restored Tractor by Group: Interstate 35, Truro

Metal Working (small): Rylee Hodge, Baxter

Metal Working (medium): Savannah Wilz, Eddyville

Metal Working (large): Hunter Kelderman, Eddyville

Restored Farm Equipment: Samantha Urmie, Eldridge

Woodworking (indoor): Colton Lamphier, New Sharon

Woodworking (outdoor): Bradley Ver Steegh, Eddyville

# # #

18 Aug 2015

Getting Your Home Ready to Sell

By Steve Burke

By Nathaniel Sillin

As the economy improves, today's sellers are facing a very different environment than they were before the housing market stumbled in 2006.

Today's housing market features new procedures and standards, not the least of which are continuing borrowing hurdles for prospective buyers. If you are thinking about a home sale in the coming months, it pays to do a thorough overview of your personal finances and local real estate environment before you put up the "for sale" sign. Here are some general issues to consider:

Make sure you're not underwater. You may want to buy a new home, but can you afford to sell? The term "underwater" refers to the amount of money a seller owes on a house in excess of final sales proceeds. If what you owe on the home - including all selling costs due at closing - exceeds the agreed-upon sale price, then you will have to pay the difference out of pocket. If you're not in a situation where you absolutely have to sell now, you may want to wait until your financial circumstances and the real estate market improves.

Evaluate your finances. Before you sell, make sure you are ready to buy or rent. Making sure all three of your credit reports (https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action) are accurate is an important part of that process.

Consider "for sale by owner" vs. "for sale by broker." "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) signs were a common sight in many neighborhoods during the housing crisis. Shrunken home values convinced many sellers to sell their property themselves rather than pay 5-6 percent of profit in broker commission. However, consider what a licensed real estate broker could accomplish in your specific situation. Many experienced brokers have market knowledge and negotiating skills that could potentially get a better price for your property. Deciding which route to take shouldn't be an overnight decision. Check leading FSBO and broker sites and talk with knowledgeable friends, attorneys and real estate professionals to learn as much as you can.

Think twice before spending on improvements. Not every home construction project pays off at sale time. Remodeling magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report (http://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2015/) tracks both pricing and cost recovery for leading remodeling projects. Before fixing up a bathroom, kitchen or any other area of your home, research whether the work will actually pay for itself at sale. For many sellers, it might be advantageous to hire a licensed home inspector to identify any structural, mechanical or major appliance repair issues that could delay or compromise a sale.

Don't forget moving costs. According to the American Moving and Storage Association, a leading industry trade group, the average professional interstate move of 1,220 miles costs an average of $5,630; in state, the average moving cost is $1,170. After all the costs involved in selling a home, don't forget how much it costs to relocate.

Bottom line: Selling your home requires planning. Before putting it on the market, get solid, qualified advice on how to sell smart in a still-recovering housing market.

18 Aug 2015

The Biggest Fish Fry - Men that are Making a Difference.

By Rick Martin

The entire Quad Cities community is invited to attend the area's biggest Fish Fry on Sunday, September 6th at the Martin Luther King Center, 630 Martin Luther King Drive in Rock Island.  Serving will be from 12 Noon until 4pm.

Our goal is to provide 300 kids with shoes. Volunteers are welcome, donations are welcome, and Quad Cities women are encouraged to help, too.

For more information, please call 309-292-3210.

Pages

more

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 Real Astrology and RCR Crossword every week?) 

Subscribe!

* indicates required

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.

 
 

Meetings Calendar

Kids Calendar

Eat & Drink Calendar