04 May 2015

Growth of Ad Agencies

By Ginny Grimsley

Death of the Small- to Mid-Tier Agency Has Been Greatly Exaggerated

Since the 1980's, the anticipated shrinkage in numbers of the small- to mid-tier ad agencies (less than 100 people or so) has not happened. If anything, there are more of them! While worldwide mega-agency groups (starting with Saatchi & Saatchi back then) have continued to grow, merge, morph, and control more media dollars, the small, independent shops stubbornly remain. There are several reasons why even worldwide brands, as well as local or regional brands, prefer working with small- to mid-tier shops.

•  Relationships matter - Most businesses are small themselves, and those large enough to seek the help of an ad agency, PR firm or web shop prefer to do so, in most cases, with similarly-sized companies. In RFPs, a common question is about the agency's client roster and where the prospect's account would fit in the pecking order. Mattering to an agency's business translates to a certain amount of leverage, regardless of the added services or bench strength the larger agency promises it would give access to. All that added firepower that's promised sounds good, but in reality, how much will actually be used on your business?

•  The age of specialization - Almost as common as in the field of medicine, many small shops have become known for their areas of expertise, whether based on creative, or digital media, by client, or channel experience and reputation. Very often advertisers want the particular ingredient for which the small shop excels. It's not uncommon for marketing departments of larger advertisers to manage several "boutique" agencies to keep ideas fresh and flowing.

•  The digital age - The advent of personal computers and the Internet have been the great equalizer between large and small agencies. As long as a small shop stays current with technology, they can compete with agencies twice their size; provided the brain-power and desire is equal to the task. The search ability of the Internet, affordable survey programs, and niche market research available off the shelf, has also leveled the playing field of category knowledge and competitive intel.

•  An appreciation for experience - Make no mistake; the ad business is a young business. Always has been and always will be. That's because historically, many consumer brands (which constitute the bulk of advertising dollars) are aimed at a young adult demographic. But as the population has aged, the number of active, senior-level ad execs has also increased. Many of these are found as the hands-on ownership or leadership in small agencies that they themselves have started. Clients, in turn, benefit enormously from direct access to their tried and true wisdom and insight.

•  The end of the three-martini lunch - The move toward a more accountable approach to client service began in the 90's, as accounting systems and MBA's began to take hold. The recent Great Recession cemented this new, more austere reality. Clients, on the whole, are simply more overhead sensitive nowadays. They know intuitively they will ultimately be paying for all of those assistant's assistants, lavish offices, and entertainment. Small- to mid-tier agencies, on the other hand, run leaner operations out of necessity. And smart clients appreciate the obvious stewardship of money - their money.

•  Demand for better service - As the ad business has matured, the associated mystery and mystique has diminished to a certain extent. Clients are less inclined to suffer aloof, prima donna creative directors, disorganized media buyers or absent-minded account executives. They want and expect more service for their marketing dollar. They have seen "the man behind the curtain." It's been our experience that small- to mid-tier shops, even with smaller "bench depth," deliver as good if not better service for most clients than shops that are much larger.

About the Authors:

Over the last 35 years, Jim Lindsey has served as vice-chairman at several of the world's most powerful advertising agencies, including Saatchi & Saatchi Worldwide, McCaffrey & McCall, and Hill Holiday/Wakeman & DeForrest. He has been honored with more than 50 ADDY Awards, Clio Awards, and Golden Quill Awards and is a recipient of advertising's highest honor, The Silver Medal Award. He has managed hundreds of millions of dollars of advertising contracts on behalf of advertisers around the world.

Paul Friederichsen specializes in marketing strategy and award-winning creative direction and television campaigns for developing and launching brands. He has done so for The Home Depot, Dixie Crystals Sugar, ITT Technical Institutes, RCA and GE consumer electronics, among other category-leading clients. Paul has held executive creative positions at several top advertising firms, including Saatchi & Saatchi.

04 May 2015

LeClaire Chamber of Commerce Friday Announcements - 05/01/15

By LeClaire Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

A Simpler Time - Old and New - Furniture and More Owner, Tammy Allen (formerly Primitive Cottage) 510 N. Cody Road, LeClaire.  Hrs: Monday -Closed, Tues & Thur -10-2, Wed.-Fri -Sat -10-5, Sunday 12-4. 563-289-1223

Kitzman Chiropractic and Acupuncture - Dr. Jay Kitzman - 1101 Canal Shore Dr., LeClaire. Dedicated to helping people regain and maintain control of their health through a holistic approach. 563-289-2166 http://www.kitzmanwellnesscenter.com/

Foxtail Hair Lounge - Owner, Holly Kitzman -1101 Canal Shore Dr., LeClaire. We believe in giving our customers the utmost care all the way down to smallest details. Services for men, women and children including haircare, facials and more. 563-289-2441 http://www.foxtailhairlounge.com/

CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

The June 2015 Chamber Newsletter will soon be in production to be delivered to Every Business and Home within the 52753 zipcode area!! Advertising rates remain: 1/8 page: $75; ¼ page: $100; ½ page: $125; full page: $250. If you commit to all 4 quarterly issues, receive a 10% discount off each ad! Ads can be modified per issue. Just send your ad information to LeClaireChamber@gmail.com and we will forward it on to House of Print for you. No cost assistance in developing an advertisement is available through House of Print. If you would rather work with House of Print directly, send your ad to HouseofPrint@mchsi.com, and please copy LeClaireChamber@gmail.com Deadline Wednesday, May 13th, 5:00 p.m. Chamber Members - Get the word out about your business or events and be ready for SUMMER!

 

CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENT

May 12th - Go Fish Marina Bar & Grill 5:30-7p.m. Everyone Welcome!

 

CALENDAR

May 1st - First Friday in LeClaire - 5-8p.m.

Antique Archaeology open until 6pm

Artswork open until 7pm

Aunt Hattie's is open late

Blue Iguana starts their Cinco de Mayo celebration early

Faithful Pilot Café & Spirits - Live music by Brad Brenny starting at 7:30pm

Grasshoppers will be open late

Isabel Bloom open until 7pm

Jones St Java House open until 7pm

Kernel Cody's Popcorn Shoppe open until 8pm

LeClaire Olive Oil Co. open until 8pm with oil/vinegar/dip sampling and more

Mississippi River Distilling Co. - Fun food and cocktail sampling and the second release of "Boetje's Bourbon Barrel Aged Mustard" and FREE pint glass with spirit purchase.

Razzleberries open late debuting recycled outdoor furniture made from old oil cans from Australia, new artwork by LeClaire artist, and ukuleles upcycled and handcrafted from cookie tins by local music lover.

Unique Recycled Creations open until 7pm with goodies

Urban Classic Home open until 7pm

Wide River Winery Tasting Room open until 7pm featuring samples of Buffalo chicken bites with Ms. D'Meanor White and Spring Fever

Restaurant specials, and many shops open late!

May 1st-5th - Blue Iguana - Cinco De Mayo Celebration Drink specials, live music!

Friday, May 1 - Salsa night with DJ Flacko and a new Drink Feature!

Saturday, May 2 - We bring back DJ Flacko to spin for Sangria Saturday!

Sunday, May 3rd - Kids Day! Bring the whole family out to enjoy Balloon Artists, Face Painting, a Piñata and more!

Monday, May 4 - Sit outside on our patio and enjoy the musical stylings of Jordan Danielson!

Tuesday, May 5 -(CINCO DE MAYO) enjoy the mariachi music of Trio de Colores!

May 1st-2nd - LeClaire Community Library's Annual Book Sale in the Community Room.

Now through May 21st - The LeClaire Community Library was selected as one of the locations around the Quad Cities to host one of the cellos for the Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra's 100 Years - 100 Cellos to celebrate the Symphony's 100th anniversary and world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma performing with the QCSO on May 14. Each cello is uniquely decorated by artists or organizations and will be displayed throughout the Quad Cities mid-April to mid-May. The Library Community Library is the only public place that will be hosting one of these cellos in the City of LeClaire.

May 2nd - Bierstube will be at the Leclaire's Farmers Market- Check out our booth & enjoy our sausage samples. Take home a LB of our sausages for only $5.50!

May 4th - Kris and John Kay, owners of Go Fish Marina Bar & Grill, will host "Coffee and Conversation" at the Princeton Community Center 8 - 10 A.M.  The Princeton Community Center Board welcomes individuals or businesses to host the monthly free coffee and open house.  Kris and John celebrated their second anniversary of ownership in April.  Everyone is welcome to enjoy a morning of good fellowship.

May 8th - Trivia Night Fundraiser at Snow Lodge 44 113 S. Cody Rd. 6p.m. Venture Crew 212, a youth organization for 14-21 year olds based in LeClaire, is raising money for a mission trip to Lima, Peru to build houses for families who live in poverty surrounding this South American Mecca. Please join them for a General Knowledge but with a Hippie themed costume contest - just for the fun of it! There will be a silent auction, raffles, and door prizes. Snacks will be available for purchase, but you can bring your own, too. Doors open at 6pm; trivia starts at 6:30pm. $10 per person; 8 people per table. Please reserve your table today: Emily@hammersofiowa.com or crousefamily@windstream.net or 563-940-8923.

May 8th - Bierstube - Karaoke 9pm-1am. Special Late Night Menu until 1a.m.!

May 9th - If you pre-ordered plants from The First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire,you can pick them up from 7:30-11:30 am. Plant Sale and Bake Sale, including egg rolls and chicken-fried rice. 7;30-11:30 am. 200 South 12th Street. Join us as we worship on Sunday, at 10 am!

May 10th - For Mother's Day - Isabel Bloom's new Garden Bloom Flowers! Available in pink, purple, green, turquoise and yellow! Or surprise Mom with their Angel with Roses or Bella - new designs that make a perfect addition to any home, patio or garden!

May 10th- Bierstube Mother's Day Brunch 7am- 1pm. Lunch menu at 11am. Adults (13+)- $13.95. 6-12 years old- $7.95. Kids 5 and under FREE. Bottomless mimosas available for $8 during breakfast!

 

May 10th - The Faithful Pilot Café & Spirits Mother's Day Brunch - 10am & 12:30pm seating. Three courses for $35 per person. Call 563-289-4156 for reservations.

 

May 10th - Steventon's - Mother's Day Brunch 10am.m-2p.m Please for reservations; 563-289-3600.

May 11th - 6 Week Outdoor Bootcamp at El Rio! Unlimited sessions throughout the week with a variety of workout formats starting May 11th.  Pre & Post assessments and pictures included. $49 for members and $99 for non-members.  Call or stop in and schedule with Lisa at "El Rio Spa & Wellness". 1000 Stagecoach Trail, 563-289-1344.

May 12th - Chamber Networking Event - Go Fish Marina Bar & Grill 5:30-7p.m. Everyone Welcome!

May 16th - Registration open for the 2015 LIVEFIT WITH LUPUS Race & Festival www.livefitwithlupus.org/ Click on 'Register Now' and select between the 1/2 Marathon, the new 10k race, the 5k or the Kids 1 Mile Fun Run! Sign up now to get the early bird rates.

May 16th - Trivia Night at the LeClaire Civic Center 127 S. Cody Road. Doors open at 6:30pm; Trivia starts at 7pm. 8-person teams; $10 per person. Everyone will be entered into a drawing for door prizes. Mulligans are 10 for $10. Each team may bring its own snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Proceeds to benefit the LeClaire 4H Clovers. Call Debbie at 563-349-4403 or email Smith5Grand@gmail.com to reserve a table.

May 16th - Sketch & Improv Comedy Show - Princeton Community Center - 7:30p.m. Adult humor - ages 18+ only. Pre-Party and Post-Party at Go Fish Marina Bar & Grill. Tickets $20 online www.princtonplayers.org

May 18th - Economic Development Meeting City Hall 8:00a.m.

May 22nd - Bierstube Karaoke 9pm-1am. Special Late Night Menu until 1a.m.!

May 26th - An Afternoon of Euchre at the Princeton Community Center. Meet at 11:30 to order lunch from Go Fish! or just arrive by 12:45 for Euchre. Coffee and dessert provided. We play until 3:00p.m.  Bonnie Sparks-Gray 563-332-5951 for more information. Sponsored by Zion Lutheran Church and others.

SAVE THE DATE

 

June 5th - First Friday in LeClaire - 5-8p.m.

 

June 5th-6th - City Wide Garage Sales

Go to http://www.visitleclaire.com/garage_sale_signup.html by May 22 to list your garage sale. Garage Sale Guides will be available online at www.visitleclaire.com, at the LeClaire Information Center (122 N. Cody Road), LeClaire Community Library, and LeClaire City Hall by May 31st.

June 13th - Kid Picker's Flea Market More information to come. Rain date is June 14.

 

June 13th-21st - Buffalo Bill Museum is participating in Quad Cities' Museum Week. www.qcmuseumweek.com 199 N. Front Street, LeClaire, www.buffalobillmuseumleclaire.com Phone 563-289-5580.

 

June 12th - Bierstube - Karaoke 9pm-1am. Special Late Night Menu until 1a.m.!

June 20th - All You Need Is Love Music Festival LeClaire Pavilion and several downtown businesses - Live Music and more!

June 21st - Bierstube Father's Day Brunch 7am- 1pm. Lunch menu at 11am

Adults (13+)- $13.95.  6-12 years old- $7.95. Kids 5 and under FREE

Bottomless mimosas available for $8 during breakfast!

June 26th - Bierstube - Karaoke 9pm-1am Special Late Night Menu until 1a.m.!

 

June 27th - French Market Day

 

FYI

 

Jones St. Java House has fresh, tasty wraps for lunch in addition to morning pastries, coffee, tea, and other beverages.

Go Fish Marina Bar & Grill Summer Dinner Specials have started! Monday: Burger Baskets Tuesday: Tacos - Wednesday: 50 cent Wings - Thursday: BBQ Ribs - All day Sunday: Jumbo Peel 'n Eat Shrimp

Princeton Community Center The fourth Wednesday of each month through October we will have An Afternoon of Euchre beginning around 12:30 p.m.  Anyone interested in lunch can meet at 11:30 a.m. and we will order from Go Fish (lunch is on their own) and have it delivered to the Center with Euchre to start after that. Zion Lutheran co-sponsors the event.  There will be coffee and dessert included.  There will be no fee to play, just enjoy a fun afternoon near the Mississippi.

 

Faithful Pilot - April, May, June, July, and August

Mondays - Half Priced Martini's

Tuesdays - Tequila Tuesday $5.00 unique, and interesting tequila cocktails for $5.00

Wednesday - Half Priced Bottle of Wine Night

Thursday - $1.00 Oysters & Buckets of Beer on the patio

Saturday - Saturday Brunch 11-2 - yes Brunch is back at The Pilot on Saturdays!

Sunday - reserved for wine tastings and private events.

Join Crane & Pelican Café every Thursday evening from 5-9pm for Sliders & Suds. For $10, you get three gourmet sliders with their house made chips, and for $5 you get three 8 oz. sample pours of beer!

The Ascentra Credit Union Foundation will host its first fundraising event with the Inaugural Paul Lensmeyer Golf Outing on Sept. 28, 2015 at the Rock Island Arsenal Golf Club. The event will include a four-person scramble, box lunch and awards reception following the golf outing. Register now by visiting following the golf outing link on the foundation website located at www.ascentra.org/foundation.  Following the link, people can register to golf and companies may also partake in special sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information, please contact Event Coordinator Ally Herr at 563-344-2279 or email mktg@ascentra.org.

Visit the LeClaire Chamber of Commerce website www.leclairechamber.com and see us on Facebook!

If you would like to attend a Chamber Board Meeting in order to present a topic, please contact the Board in advance at LeClaireChamber@gmail.com in order to be included an upcoming agenda. Board Meetings are held the 4th Tuesday of each month, 8a.m. at LeClaire City Hall.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND

 

First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire Wednesday evening program: Halftime! For kids, 5-11 years old. It's half way through the week - and it's a time of fun for the kids. We meet from 5:30-7pm, every Wednesday - there is school, through May 6. We serve dinner, play games, have a lesson and a craft. Have your child join us for a week or two to see what we are doing. We are located across from Bridgeview Elementary School, at 200 South 12th street. For more information, call Pastor Melody at 563-381-7777.

Pick up the new LeClaire information guide at the LeClaire Information Center. It has many photos and great information for everyone including residents, potential residents, visitors, realtors, relocation personnel, schools, and more! Summer hours have started: Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm; Sunday 1-4pm. 122 N. Cody Road. LIC Volunteers Needed! Contact Cindy Bruhn at info@visitleclaire.com or 563-650-7963 to volunteer.

PROPERTY LISTINGS

 

Riverview Apartment for Rent - Downtown LeClaire. One Bedroom. $1250/month. Call 563-940-3742 for more information.

Commercial Property for Sale 613-617 N Cody Road, LeClaire IA 52753. Contact Jeff R. Heuer, NAI Ruhl Commercial Company, jheuer@ruhlcommercial.com, Office: 563-355-4000, Direct: 563-823-5107.

Commercial Property for Sale Cody Road, LeClaire IA 52753. Description: contact John G. Ruhl, NAI Ruhl Commercial Company, jruhl@ruhlcommercial.com, Office: 563-355-4000, Direct: 563-823-5126.

Commercial Property Available Eagle Ridge Road, LeClaire, Iowa. Please call: Mike Burke - Mel Foster Co. mburke@melforsterco.com, Mobile: 563-349-2705, Direct: 563-823-5272

Do you have Residential or Commercial property available? Please contact the LeClaire Chamber of Commerce, leclairechamber@gmail.com, with a property description, complete contact information including phone numbers and rental or purchase pricing.

LECLAIRE EVENTS COMING UP!

May 16th - Cars & Coffee - LeClaire Levee

June 5th-6th - City Wide Garage Sales

June 13th - Kid Picker's Flea Market (rain date, June 14th)

June 27th - French Market Day

Tug Fest - August 13-15

CHAMBER NETWORKING EVENTS - EVERYONE WELCOME!

May 12th - Go Fish - Evening - 5:30-7p.m.

June 9th - Big Dave and Holly's - Lunch - noon

July 14th - Blue Iguana - Lunch - noon

04 May 2015

BIG NAMES COMING TO THE iWIRELESS CENTER

By iWireless Center
CHRIS TOMLIN'S LOVE RAN REDTOUR FEATURING REND COLLECTIVE

Grammy and Dove® award-winning, Christian worship sensation Chris Tomlin hits the road again this fall for his "Love Ran Red" Tour, featuring Rend Collective.

FOR RELEASE TO PUBLIC FRI, MAY 1ST 7:30AM

TICKETS ON SALE 5/15/15 AT 10 AM

WWW.CHRISTOMLIN.COM

The highly anticipated night of worship will feature new songs from Tomlin's new release, Love Ran Red album along with an array of hits from the past. With nine albums, 12 No. 1 radio singles, a GRAMMY® Award and eight additional nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a platinum and four gold albums to his credit, Chris Tomlin is among the most well-known and influential artists in contemporary Christian music. Referred to by Time magazine as "most likely the most often sung artist anywhere," Tomlin also has 15 of the Top 100 CCLI songs, with 4 of them being in the top 10.

Opening the show will be energetic Northern Irish worship favorites Rend Collective.

About Chris Tomlin With ten albums, 13 No. 1 radio singles, a GRAMMY® Award and eight additional nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a platinum and four gold albums to his credit, Chris Tomlin is among the most well-known and influential artists in contemporary Christian music. Referred to by Time magazine as "most likely the most often sung artist anywhere," Tomlin also has 15 of the Top 100 CCLI songs, with 4 of them being in the top 10. BMI's 2014 Songwriter of the Year, Tomlin's "How Great Is Our God" was his first No. 1 on the CCLI Top 25, moving to No. 1 after becoming one of the fasting rising modern day hymns in CCLI chart history. In addition to having sold more than 5.3 million albums and over 8 million digital tracks, Tomlin made history as his single "Jesus Messiah" (Hello Love) garnered 97 adds at radio its first week and skyrocketed to No. 1, making it the biggest ever add date in Christian radio history. In the midst of his record breaking success, and continuing his role as worship leader at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, Tomlin continues touring and leading at Passion Conference gatherings across the US and worldwide. Burning Lights, debuted at No. 1 atop the Billboard 200 in January 2013, making history as only the fourth Christian music album to do so.

MIRANDA LAMBERT GOES RETRO WITH BRINGING BACK HER "ROADSIDE BARS AND PINK GUITARS TOUR" ON OCTOBER 17TH.

NASHVILLE, TN -Reigning ACM and CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, Miranda Lambert, is excited to resurrect her "Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars Tour" this fall in the shape of an all women's tour. Miranda hits the stage at the iWireless Center in Moline, IL on Saturday, October 17th. Tickets go on sale Friday, May 8th and are available at the iWireless Center Box Office, by phone at 800-745-300, and online at www.Ticketmaster.com.

Miranda recently thrilled audiences across the country with her Certified Platinum Tour, including her sold-out Madison Square Garden show in New York, with Rolling Stone Magazine saying, "Lambert commanded her no-nonsense stage show with an effortless, unassuming confidence, singing fan-favorite ballads like "Over You" and "The House That Built Me" right alongside hard-partying rockers like her current single, "Little Red Wagon," and her signature, set-closing "Gunpowder and Lead."

She will be joined again by RaeLynn, whose gold-certified single "God Made Girls" made her a fan favorite on tour this spring. Pristine vocalist Ashley Monroe whose duet with Blake Shelton was a recent No.1 hit at Country Radio will appear again on select dates with repertoire that includes her new single, "On To Something Good".

Miranda decided to up the ante and add a few new faces to the bill, Clare Dunn, who she recently saw perform at the Stagecoach Festival. "I hadn't seen her before - but I'm a fan now," Miranda said. "You don't see that many women who get up there and really slay a guitar and play some real rock 'n' roll country."

And introducing singer, songwriter Courtney Cole whose debut song "Drunk" made an impressive impact at Spotify and is now at available at iTunes. Her acoustic EP #NoFilter, a four-song collection, is currently exclusively at Spotify.

Miranda has been supportive of her fellow female artists for years and feels strongly about continuing that pattern. "I really support female artists in any genre, especially country music right now," Lambert said. "I've taken girls on tour for a long time and I want to continue to do that because I feel like I can give them a platform".

Expect to be wowed in these cities: Missoula, MT - Billings, MT - Rapid City, SD- Mankato, MN - Augusta, GA - Fayetteville, NC - Roanoke, VA - Huntsville, AL - Tupelo, MS - Jonesboro, AR - Lacrosse, WI - Ft. Wayne, IN and Moline, IL.

Visit http://mirandalambert.com for more details.

For more information, please contact:
Marcel Pariseau / Sarah Fuller - True Public Relations - 323-957-0730

Fount Lynch - Sony Music Nashville - (615) 301-4373 Fount.Lynch@SonyMusic.com

About Miranda Lambert
Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Miranda Lambert is the reigning five-time CMA and reigning six-time ACM Female Vocalist of the Year. The first single off of Lambert's fifth studio album, Platinum, "Automatic," was Lambert's highest charting first week single to date and won CMA Song of the Year as well as ACM Song of the year. Her duet with Carrie Underwood, the album's second single, "Somethin' Bad," has been certified as an RIAA Platinum Digital Single.

Platinum, made history when it debuted atop Billboard's Top Country Albums Chart, making Lambert the first country artist in the history of the chart to have each of her five albums debut at number one. Platinum also debuted at the top of the all genre Billboard 200 as the number one album in the nation.

About RaeLynn
RaeLynn scored the highest charting debut single by a solo female artist in 2014 and sold over half a million copies of her GOLD-certified debut single "God Made Girls." The petite talent's follow-up, "For A Boy," is now available on iTunes and is quickly becoming a fan-favorite. Taste of Country insists, "fans of every age will find a trio of lyrics to get behind" on RaeLynn's ME EP (The Valory Music Co.), a diverse collection the vibrant 20-year-old singer/songwriter penned.

RaeLynn will hit the road with Rascal Flatts' RIOT TOUR 2015 later this month before joining fellow Texan Miranda Lambert once again. For tour dates and adventures, follow RaeLynn on Twitter and RaeLynnOfficial.net.

About Ashley Monroe
Ashley Monroe's new single "On to Something Good," which was recently picked as one of SPIN's "Can't Miss Tracks," is available at iTunes and currently impacting country radio. Written by Monroe with Barry Dean and Luke Laird, "On to Something Good" is the first single from her much-anticipated sophomore album expected to be released later this year and produced by friend and mentor, Vince Gill and Justin Neibank.

Her second Warner Bros. Records release follows the critically acclaimed Like A Rose, named the top country record of 2013 by Billboard, Rolling Stone and The New
York Times. Ashley is currently enjoying a top 5 hit with "Lonely Tonight," her duet with label mate Blake Shelton, and will be on the road with the Vince Gill and Friends Tour, Lambert's Certified Platinum Tour and Little Big Town's Summer Tour 2015. She'll also be making select festival appearances.

About Clare Dunn
Clare Dunn is a fearless performer and guitar player whose music possesses a unique blend of country and rock. In 2014, Clare was named the highest charting independent female artist on the Music Row Country Breakout chart in 10 years. Shortly after, she was featured on the cover of USA Today. The article, "Country Lassos 'Fresh Voices'," discussed her inclusion as one of SiriusXM's Fresh Female Voices.

In addition to opening select shows for American Rock icon Bob Seger on his 2015 tour, she also topped "Artists to Watch in 2015" lists for USA Today, Billboard, The Boston Globe, Taste of Country, Roughstock and Whiskey Riff, and was named one of 2015's Next Big Things by MusicRow Magazine. Clare is signed to Universal Music Group Nashville and has a world wide publishing agreement with BMG/Chrysalis. Visit www.ClareDunn.com and follow her on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

About Courtney Cole
Courtney Cole is introducing her unique brand of fun-filled, energetic sound to fans with her first single, "Drunk" now available at iTunes. The music video accompanying her single charted at #1 on Taste of Country's Top 10 Countdown within 2 weeks and debuted at #8 on CMT Pure 12 Pack Countdown. According to ShotGun Seat, "Cole achieves the perfect balance of being simultaneously strong and vulnerable, like an early Taylor Swift".

Courtney has been hitting the pavement across the country opening for artists like Chris Young, Kip Moore, Thompson Square, Josh Thompson & Granger Smith. As a Spotify Spotlight Artist and one of Huffington Post's Country Artists to Watch in 2015, Courtney is bringing her hometown spirit of New Orleans into her music, her empowering lyrics and her live show. Check out Courtney at CourtneyColeMusic.com, Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram.
04 May 2015

Loebsack Welcomes Quad Cities Chamber to Washington

By Joe Hand

Washington, D.C. - April 30, 2015 - Congressman Dave Loebsack today welcomed leaders from the Quad Cities to Washington for their annual trip. They discussed economic development issues including the implementation of the Regional Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Hub; transportation issues such as the I-74 Bridge and other infrastructure projects; as well as the importance of the Rock Island Arsenal. Each year, Loebsack meets with community leaders and local Chambers of Commerce groups from around the state to discuss issues important to their region.

"I am glad leaders from the Quad Cities could come and discuss important projects aimed at moving the region forward," said Loebsack. "Meeting with the local leaders in Washington gives me a very important opportunity to continue the conversation we have when I am in the district. I look forward to working alongside them and being a strong voice for the regions priorities."

04 May 2015

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Travels to Turkey for G20 Agriculture Ministers Meeting

By USDA Office of Communications

U.S. Agriculture Secretary also Traveling to Jordan to Sign Food Assistance Agreement

WASHINGTON, April 30, 2015 - U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will travel to Istanbul, Turkey, next week to meet his counterparts at the G20 Agriculture Ministers Meeting that will focus on food security.

"The G20 ministerial provides an important platform for agricultural leaders to discuss efforts to improve food security around the world," said Vilsack. "From the U.S. perspective, reducing post-harvest loss and food waste play a major role in this effort. We also believe that nations must acknowledge the important role that science plays in increasing crop production and the role that open, rules-based trade can play in growing economies and fostering food security in the face of a changing climate."

The Group of Twenty (G20) is a forum for supporting international economic cooperation and decision-making. It comprises 19 countries plus the European Union. G20 members represent around 85 percent of global gross domestic product, over 75 percent of global trade, and two-thirds of the world's population. Turkey is serving as the president of the G20 in 2015. The Agriculture Ministers Meeting runs from May 7 to May 8.

Following the G20, Vilsack will travel to Amman, Jordan, to sign a government-to-government food assistance agreement
04 May 2015

DISASTER RESPONSE UPDATE

By Lauri Rheinhart

I wanted to share a few updates on our disaster relief work in just the last 5 days. The American Red Cross is working with the Nepal Red Cross and our international counterparts to respond to the catastrophic earthquake in Nepal.

Reports vary, but more than 5,000 people have been killed in Nepal, Tibet, Bangladesh and at the Nepal-China border, with some 10,000 more injured. Many are feared trapped under rubble and, tragically, the number of casualties is expected to rise.

In addition to joining the relief efforts in Nepal, the Red Cross continues to respond to emergencies happening in communities near you, and prepare for more to come.

Severe flooding and tornadoes in parts of the United States have already ushered in spring storm season. The Red Cross is providing shelter and assistance for the community residents who need it.

Numerous multi-unit home fires impacted families this week across the country. Our volunteers and employees were on the scene right away to provide comfort, food, gift cards to purchase clean clothes, and help with next steps toward rebuilding lives.

This past week has been devastating for so many families. We're humbled by the ongoing support of the Red Cross community, because it's times like these when your commitment can truly change the lives of people who are suffering.  

We are so grateful to all of you who have donated, your support is making an incredible impact for those in need. If you'd like to support our efforts at home and across the globe, donate to American Red Cross Disaster Relief to help people affected by disasters big and small.
04 May 2015

"Will B. Rolling" to "Ben Bikin" Media Event

By Rick Martin

Port Byron, IL - May is Bike Month! To celebrate, Port Byron, IL and Sparta, WI will kick off the inaugural Will to Ben bicycle ride with a news conference at 3 p.m. Friday, May 8 in downtown Port Byron, IL at the Will Be Rollin' statue. Port Byron Mayor Kevin Klute, other Quad Cities dignitaries, and officials from Sparta WI will provide information on this unique ride to occur between two communities and two states October 3-9, 2015.

Local members of the Quad Cities Bicycle Club and fans of the penny farthing bicycles will also be on hand to kick-off the event. It is hoped that this will become one of the Midwest's premier
annual bike rides linking the two 30 foot penny-farthing bicycles. "When the bicyclists leave Port Byron they 'Will B. Rolling;' when they reach Sparta they've 'Ben Bikin.'"

Background:

The Village of Port Byron, IL, the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Sparta, WI Chamber of Commerce, and communities in between have partnered to create the inaugural "Will B. Rolling to Ben Bikin" bicycle tour to be held October 3-9, 2015. The tour covers portions of Northwestern Illinois and Southwestern Wisconsin at a time of year when fall colors should be at their peak and when Sparta's Fallfest is in full swing to offer riders festivities at the conclusion of the tour. The ride covers six days, averaging 10 hours per day.

In 1995, Sparta designed and manufactured a large fiberglass "man" dressed in Sparta colors (red and gold), sitting on a penny-farthing bike. The bike and rider were installed in the Information Area on the corner of Water and Highway 16, a prominent spot for viewing, and were named "Ben Bikin." The statue was manufactured by a local Sparta company called Fiberglass Animals Shapes & Trademarks (F.A.S.T.).

In 2013, the Port Byron Mayor visited Sparta to ride the famous Elroy-Sparta Trail and was impressed with the statue. F.A.S.T. was commissioned to build a replica to be called Will B. Rolling, and it was installed in 2013 in a prominent location in downtown Port Byron, adjacent to the Mississippi River and the Great River Trail. The mayors began to discuss the possibility of connecting the two towns with a bicycling event. The Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce began collaborating between the two cities and eventually contracted with Bicycle Illinois to coordinate the logistics of the event.

To register go to www.willtoben.com

Other Announcements:

Quad City Get Out And Trail (GOAT) Event

Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline, and Rock Island Parks and Recreation Departments invite the public to participate in their annual GOAT event! This "Get Out And Trail" event will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2015 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Enjoy the many trails in the Quad Cities with your family and friends. The majority of the routes are on separated trails along the Mississippi River and Duck Creek in Iowa and the Rock River in Illinois. Walk, jog, bike, or rollerblade as much or as little of the many trails as you want and in any direction, starting from any location.

Various hosts will be located throughout the loop from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with refreshments available. There will also be raffle tickets given out to anyone visiting any of the rest stops, so be sure to stop by as many as you can to help your chances of winning great prizes! This is a free event, and no registration is needed. Maps of the routes are available at the following locations:

Bettendorf Parks and Recreation at (563)344-4113 or http://www.bettendorf.org/parks

Davenport Parks and Recreation at (563)328-7275 or

http://www.cityofdavenportiowa.com/parks

Moline Parks and Recreation at (309) 524-2424 or http://www.molineparks.com

Rock Island Parks and Recreation at (309) 732-7275 or http://www.rigov.com

** END**

04 May 2015

Happening this week at the Putnam Museum and Science Center!

By Putnam Museum
May 4 & 5: Celebrate Navy Week at the Putnam Museum and Science Center!

Designed by the Navy Office of Community Outreach, Navy weeks are arranged to bring America's Navy closer to the people it protects in cities that do not have a significant naval presence. Navy Week activities are included with admission:
May 4 & 5 Times:
USS Constitution Presentations (10:15am & 11:15am)
Come see Sailors stationed aboard the world's oldest commissioned warship USS Constitution as they interact with guests in traditional 1800's uniforms and talk STEM and history.

Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Demonstrations (10:00am-12:00pm)
Navy EOD Technicians interact with visitors through static displays, dive suits, and robots.

Navy STEM Activities (10:00am-5:00pm)
Get involved with our Laparoscopic Simulator Trainer, Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and other interactive activities all designed to show the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and how we use it in the Fleet! Also stop by and visit our Environmental "Stewards of the Sea" and meet Stewie, our mascot, and get an inside look at how the Navy is on the leading edge of environmental awareness.
May 7 @ 7pm:  Aerosmith Rocks Donington 3D

Over their 40+ year career, Aerosmith has earned the title of "America's Greatest Rock and Roll Band" and their 3D concert is sure to be a crowd pleaser! With several platinum albums, many number one hits and 4 Grammy Awards, Aerosmith Rocks Donington 3D is packed with many fan favorites.

Captured at Donington Park at Leicestershire UK on Sunday June 15, 2014, where tickets to the live event went for $800... Aerosmith proved beyond a doubt that they still have what it takes to ROCK an audience.This concert will take fans on an epic Dream On journey full of Sweet Emotion.

"Walk This Way" to the Putnam May 7th at 7pm
to hear the best Aerosmith songs on the National Geographic GIANT Screen!
04 May 2015

Iowa Delegation Calls on USDA to Provide Assistance in Combating Bird Flu Outbreak

By Joe Hand

Washington, D.C. - The bipartisan, bicameral Iowa delegation, led by Congressman Dave Loebsack, today called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide any assistance they can under their statutory authority to help affected states combat the recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N2), also known as bird flu. In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, the Members of Congress detailed the vested interest that the USDA has in containing and preventing the spread of this outbreak. As of today, Iowa has had eight confirmed cases and four probable cases of bird flu, affecting more than 10 million birds. Iowa is the nation's leading egg-producing state.

"Iowa leads the nation in egg production, producing approximately 16.5 billion eggs annually, and is ninth in turkey production. Within the past month, the HPAI H5N2 virus has impacted one-sixth of Iowa's 59.5 million egg laying chickens and over 100,000 turkeys," the Members of Congress wrote. "While there is no known risk of HPAI H5N2 transferring to humans, stopping the spread quickly is necessary to safeguard our country's poultry and egg producers and ensuring a stable domestic supply of these foods that are an integral part of healthy diets for millions of Americans. Our nation has a vested interest in containing and preventing the spread to other Iowa communities and states, and ensuring consumers are not adversely impacted by increasing egg and poultry prices."

In the letter, the members of the Iowa delegation called on USDA to:

·         Provide communities battling the avian influenza with all available assistance;

·         Provide Members of Congress with time-sensitive updates on new cases and requests for further resources to help turkey farmers and egg producers; and

·         Inform Congress of the economic impact that the poultry and egg reductions will have on producers and consumers.

A copy of the letter can be found here.

###

04 May 2015

Affordable Summer Day Camp Registration Begins

By Holly Nomura
Moline, IL - The Salvation Army is offering a low-cost Summer Day Camp.   For the eleventh year, children can come spend their summer in a fun-filled and safe setting at the Community Center, located near downtown Moline. The Summer Day Camp runs from June 8th to August 7th.  

Children entering kindergarten through 6th grade will be cared for Monday through Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm. A breakfast and lunch are provided each day.  IL Child Care Assistance is accepted, and sliding scale fees and scholarships are available.

Activities will include swimming twice a week, weekly field trips to places such as: Niabi Zoo, Fun City, Family Museum, a fishing expedition and much more. This will be a fun, educational summer for your children!

Space is limited; please stop in at The Salvation Army located at 2200 5th Avenue Moline, IL to register ASAP.  If you have any questions, please call 309-764-6996 x209 and ask for Duane Sorenson.

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