23 Oct 2014

Construction Begins on Chicago-Moline Rail Service

By Guy Tridgell

Eola Yard Improvements Add Capacity to Route, Create Jobs, Improve Travel Options

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced today the start of construction on the new passenger rail route connecting Chicago and Moline. The $23 million in improvements underway at the BNSF Railway's Eola Yard in Aurora are made possible by funds from the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) $177 million grant toward the project, as well as $78 million in matching funds provided by Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! capital program.

"This project marks the start of better transportation between these two vital areas of the state," Governor Quinn said. "Passenger rail is creating jobs and opening new economic development opportunities across Illinois, and will help travelers get to their destinations quickly and efficiently for years to come. I am proud that our state is leading the way on this transportation trend of the future."

The work that just started consists of track improvements and all necessary signal and capacity upgrades to accommodate the additional trains that will be utilizing the Eola Yard each day once the Chicago-Moline  service begins. Grading and drainage improvements also are included. The estimated completion date is Summer 2015.

"This truly is an historic day and one more major step toward reestablishing passenger service between Chicago and Moline," said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Erica Borggren. "The improvements at the Eola Yard would not be possible without the hard work of our partners at the FRA and BNSF Railway. By working together, we are creating jobs and economic development, improving travel options for communities along the line and building a 21st century transportation system for Illinois."

The Eola Yard project will facilitate additional passenger trains on the 109-mile stretch between Chicago and Wyanet and help improve operational efficiencies for existing service between Chicago and Quincy. Earlier this year, the state reached an agreement with the Iowa Interstate Railroad (IAIS) to begin designing the signal system, as well as the track and tie improvements, to permit passenger trains on the 53 miles from Wyanet to Moline. Once that process is completed later this year, IDOT can begin finalizing an additional agreement with the IAIS that spells out maintenance and operations responsibilities, as well as a construction timeline.

"Reestablishing passenger service between Chicago and Moline is critical to the development of a Midwest passenger rail network that will connect the 40 largest markets in the Midwest," said Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. "These improvements at Eola Yard will help make this new service to Moline a reality, while also improving existing passenger rail service to Galesburg and Quincy - a real benefit for the traveling public."

The restoration of service to the Quad Cities for the first time since 1979 will begin with two daily round-trips, with stops in LaGrange, Naperville, Plano, Mendota, Princeton and Geneseo. "BNSF Railway is pleased to be partnering with the State of Illinois on this important project," said D.J. Mitchell, BNSF assistant vice president passenger operations safety and technical training.

"We look forward to working with state and federal officials to complete this segment of the Chicago-Quad Cities Passenger Rail program."

For more information on the project, visit
goo.gl/6W6YuS.

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23 Oct 2014

MALLARDS WEEKLY UPDATE: OCTOBER 20, 2014

By Brian Lavelle

THIS WEEK
Friday, October 24, 7:05 p.m.

iWireless Center, Moline

Rapid City Rush vs. Quad City Mallards

 

Saturday, October 25, 7:05 p.m.

iWireless Center, Moline

Rapid City Rush vs. Quad City Mallards

 

Quad City
2013-14: 33-23-10, 76 points
5th place, Central Hockey League
Coach: Terry Ruskowski

Rapid City
2013-14: 39-23-4, 82 points
4th place, Central Hockey League
Coach: Joe Ferras

 

QUACK TRACKS
ECHL

The Mallards moved to the ECHL from the Central Hockey League earlier this month along with the Allen Americans, Brampton Beast, Missouri Mavericks, Rapid City Rush, Tulsa Oilers and Wichita Thunder to form the ECHL's Central Division.  The ECHL is the fourth different league in which the Mallards have played, following the Colonial/United Hockey League (1995-2007), International Hockey League (2009-2010) and Central Hockey League (2010-2014).

Return

Nine Mallards have previously played in the ECHL: Kevin Baker, Benjamin Dieude-Fauvel, Matt Duffy, Evan Haney, Darren McMillan, Parker Milner, Kyle Thomas, Garrett Vermeersch and Ben Woodley.

Rematch

The Mallards Friday meet the Rush for the first time since April 30 when the Mallards won the seventh and deciding game of the opening round Central Hockey League playoff series between the two clubs 3-2 in Rapid City.  This also marks the second straight season and third time in the last four years the Mallards will open against the Rush.  The Mallards dropped their 2013-14 CHL curtain raiser to the Rush 6-4 on October 19 of last year and lost their first game of the 2011-12 campaign 5-1 to Rapid City.

Home Sweet Home

The Mallards play their first two games and four of their first five at home.  After this weekend's two game set against the Rush, the Mallards will travel to Rapid City for a rematch next Tuesday.  The Mallards will return home to host the Cincinnati Cyclones- who last year reached the ECHL Kelly Cup finals- on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1.

Blink of an Eye

Mallards coach and general manager Terry Ruskowski Friday night will step behind an ECHL bench for the first time in 7,510 days.  Ruskowski's final game as coach of the ECHL's Columbus Chill was a 6-4 second round playoff loss to the Toledo Storm on April 2, 1994.  Since then he has coached in the International Hockey League (Houston Aeros), United Hockey League (Knoxville Speed) and CHL (Mallards, Laredo Bucks and Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees).  

Return, Take 2

Kevin Baker returns to the ECHL with the Mallards this season.  Baker, the 2008-09 ECHL Most Valuable Player, spent the last season plus in the Central Hockey League with the Arizona Sundogs.  Baker last played in the ECHL for the Evansville IceMen in 2013.  Baker has scored 190 goals and added 202 assists for 392 points in 367 career ECHL games for the IceMen, Texas Wildcatters, Florida Everblades, Stockton Thunder and Orlando Solar Bears.

General Lee
Jeff Lee returns for his second season with the Mallards after leading the team in points (60) while playing in all 66 regular season games last season.  Lee will face some old friends when the Mallards meet the Rush this weekend.  He skated for Rapid City as a rookie in 2012-13.

Mac is Back
Defenseman Darren McMillan during the offseason announced his plans to retire after the coming campaign.  McMillan's final season in professional hockey will be his sixth with the Mallards and his fifth as team captain.   Should he, as expected, take the ice this Friday, the Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, native will become the only player who has skated for the team in each of the six seasons since the Mallards returned to the ice in 2009.  McMillan, 34, has played 261 games for the Mallards, sixth most in team history.  He is three games away from catching Rick Emmett- who played 264 times for the Mallards between 1996 and 2001- and moving into a tie for fifth place.  McMillan has missed just three games over the last four seasons.  

Back on the Blue Line

McMillan is, along with Benjamin Dieude-Fauvel, Matt Duffy, Nick Grasso, Darren McMillan, Mike Monfredo and Nicholas Rioux, one of six defenseman returning from last season's Mallard squad.  In all, nine players are back from last year.  Forwards Lee, Justin Fox and Joe Perry join the blue line sextet in re-upping with the Flock.

Euro Trip

The Mallards have added a pair of Europeans in Russian-born Finnish forward Antti Pusa and Danish defenseman Jannik Christensen.  Pusa split last season between Herning in Denmark and TuTo in Finland after previously playing in France and Austria.  Prior to making the move across the Atlantic, Christensen spent the bulk of his career in his home town with the Esbjerg Energy.

Between the Pipes

The Mallards' two goaltenders are new to the team this season.  Parker Milner joins the Mallards after turning pro last season with the Stockton Thunder- and also seeing action for the American Hockey League's Bridgeport Sound Tigers.  Milner's highly decorated collegiate career climaxed when he backstopped Boston College to the 2012 NCAA title.  Rookie Evan Mosher was named to the All-Canadian second team after shining for Acadia University last season.

Openers

The Mallards have suffered regulation defeats in each of their five home openers since the team returned to the ice in 2009 following a two year interregnum during which the Quad City Flames competed in the American Hockey League.  The Mallards are winless (0-5-1) in their last six home openers.  The Flock last started its home slate with a win on October 21, 2005 while in the United Hockey League when it downed the Motor City Mechanics 4-3 in a shootout.

Home Sweet Home, Take 2
The Mallards went 19-11-3 at home last season after winning exactly 20 home games each of the prior two seasons. 

Special Teams
The Mallards finished last season fourth in the CHL in penalty killing (83.7 percent) and ranked ninth on the power play (14.3 percent).  The Mallards, who scored shorthanded 12 times last season, led the CHL in shorthanded goals each of the last two seasons.

Head to Head

The Mallards went 3-2-1 against Rapid City during the 2013-14 regular season.  The Mallards went 2-1-0 against the Rush on home ice.  All time, the Mallards have gone 12-8-2 overall in the regular season and 7-4-0 at the iWireless Center against the Rush.  Last spring's seven game battle was the first playoff match-up between the two clubs.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES
Friday, October 24, 7:05 p.m.- Mallards vs. Rapid City
$1 Dog/$1 Beer Friday presented by 97X and MetroLINK
Beginning with opening night, fans again this season will enjoyed $1 hot dogs and beers from iWireless Center concession stands during all Friday home games.  97X will follow in the spirit of the evening by presenting hot dog-themed intermission entertainment.

 

Saturday, October 25, 7:05 p.m.- Mallards vs. Rapid City

Rush Rematch

The Mallards and Rush will no doubt ramp up their rivalry when they meet for the second time in as many nights.

ON THE AIR
Fox Sports Radio 1230 is the radio home of Mallards Hockey Presented by Genesis Power Sports Performance.  Mallards games broadcast on AM 1230 also stream live online at www.wfxn.net.  A limited number of Mallards games will not air on Fox Sports Radio 1230 due to conflicts with University of Illinois basketball and football and Green Bay Packer football.  ECHL-TV pay-per-view video webcasts of all Mallards games are also available at myqcmallards.net.

TICKETS
Single Game Tickets
Single game tickets for all Mallards regular season contests are now available.  Fans can contact the Mallards at (309) 277-1364 or info@myqcmallards.com for more information about tickets.  Single game tickets are also available at the iWireless Center box office, at Ticketmaster outlets, through www.ticketmaster.com or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free.  The box office is open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on game days from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the second period.

Group Tickets
Groups of at least ten receive savings off the walk-up price and a host of group benefits.  Mallards group tickets are a great fit for youth organizations, friends, co-workers, family groups, religious groups, school functions and business events.  For more group ticket information, fans can contact the Mallards at (309) 277-1364 or info@myqcmallards.com.

 

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

 

Jim Kersten


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23 Oct 2014

Braley Gets Senatorial Support

By Sam Lau
US Sen. Martin Heinrich: Braley Works Across Party Lines, Fights for All Iowans

Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) highlighted Braley's strong record of breaking through gridlock to fight for an economy that works for all Iowans, not just the wealthiest few

Fort Dodge, IA - Today Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) highlighted the importance of Bruce Braley's work to protect and strengthen the job-creating Renewable Fuel Standard to Iowa's economy while touring the Iowa Central Fuel Testing Lab in Fort Dodge. Bruce Braley has a strong record of breaking through gridlock to build an economy that works for all families by promoting Iowa agriculture and fighting to grow Iowa's rural economy.

"In Congress today, there's too much gridlock and too little compromise. All too often, Senators are looking out for the interests of the wealthiest few, not the middle class. Bruce has a strong record of working across party lines to strengthen and protect Iowa's agriculture economy - he's shown that he'll fight for an economy that works for all Iowans, not millionaires, billionaires and special interests. In contrast, his opponent says she is "philosophically opposed" to the RFS and stands in lockstep with out-of-state Big Oil special interests that want see it eliminated, jeopardizing the 75,000 jobs it supports in Iowa. Iowans need a Senator who will fight for hardworking families, and that's Bruce Braley," said Heinrich.

Braley has been a leader in the fight to protect the RFS; according to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, nearly 75,000 Iowa jobs are connected to renewable fuels. Late last year, Braley was the only member of the Iowa U.S. House delegation to join Governor Terry Branstad at an EPA hearing where they spoke out against the EPA's proposed cuts. In November 2013, Braley teamed up with Republican Rep. Steve King to host an event with Iowa State's Bioeconomy Institute to explain to Congressional staff the importance of keeping the RFS at its current levels. At Braley's request, Iowa consistently has had representation at Congressional hearings examining the future of the RFS. And early this year, he helped deliver 100,000 signatures to the EPA urging them to maintain a strong RFS.

In contrast, State Sen. Ernst would put Tea Party obstructionism before Iowa: Ernst would have opposed the Farm Bill, is "philosophically opposed" to the RFS, and her spokesperson said that "in a perfect world...she would support doing away with the (RFS)." Braley for Iowa released a report detailing the devastating impacts of state Sen. Joni Ernst's reckless plan to eliminate all energy incentives and all tax credits. If Ernst's energy proposals were enacted, energy costs for Iowans could increase by $1,200 per year, tens of thousands of Iowa jobs could be threatened, and business investments in Iowa could be reduced by billions of dollars.

Heinrich also kicked off phone banks in Des Moines and Mason City and encouraged all Iowans to vote early. Voting early by mail or in person is the simplest and easiest way to cast a ballot. Iowans can vote early in person from now until November 3, or they can vote by mail anytime between now and Election Day.  Iowans can find their early voting location or can request a ballot to vote by mail at vote.brucebraley.com.

U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich is the junior United States Senator for New Mexico. Elected in 2012, Heinrich serves on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources, Intelligence, and Joint Economic Committees.  He Previously served in the House of Representatives from 2008 - 2012.

Heinrich's strong and principled leadership is driven by his working-class upbringing, his wife Julie, and his two young sons.

BACKGROUND:

Braley Was Endorsed By The Iowa Corn Growers Association PAC's Bipartisan Committee Of Farmer-Members. In September 2014, The Des Moines Register reported, "The Iowa Corn Growers Association, one of the state's most influential farm groups, announced Tuesday its political action committee has endorsed Democrat Bruce Braley in his campaign for U.S. Senate against Republican state Sen. Joni Ernst." TheRegister continued, "A press release from the Corn Growers Association PAC said the decisions are made by a bipartisan committee of farmer-members who consider candidates based only on their support of ICGA policies. Braley was one of 75 state and federal candidates included in the endorsements." [Des Moines Register,9/2/14]
  • Iowa Corn Grower Endorsement "Decisions Are Made Through An Objective Analysis Including Candidate Responses To Our Survey, Voting Records, Letters And Other Quantified Evidence Of Support. In September 2014, Iowa Corn Growers Association PAC announced: "ICGA PAC decisions are made through an objective analysis including candidate responses to our survey, voting records, letters and other quantified evidence of support. The ICGA PAC committee members include farmers from across Iowa, with an equal balance of party affiliation to ensure decisions are based only on corn growers' policies. Funding for contributions to candidates from the Iowa Corn Growers Association PAC comes only from voluntary PAC donations by ICGA members. Neither ICGA dues, nor checkoff dollars, are used for PAC contributions." [IowaCorn.org, 9/2/14]
  • Iowa Corn Growers' PAC Chair: "Bruce Has A Fantastic Track Record With Our Key Issus" - "Bruce Has Done Over And Above On Farm Bill And Crop Insurance And The RFS." In a September 2014 interview on WHO TV, Iowa Corn Growers' PAC Chair, Mark Recker, said: "Bruce has a fantastic track record with our key issues, and has over the past term and over his past few terms... Bruce has done over and above on Farm Bill and crop insurance and the RFS, and has scored with us very well, and supported us very well, and is very credible with us on those issues." [WHO TV, 9/7/14]
  • Iowa Corn Growers' PAC Chair: We Choose Who To Endorse Based On The Issues - "They Tell Us What's Important, Whether It's Ethanol And The Renewable Fuel Standard, Farm Bill Or Crop Insurance." In a September 2014 interview on WHO TV, Iowa Corn Growers' PAC Chair, Mark Recker, said: "Well, it all comes down to the issues for us and how well candidates support our priorities as an organization and producers. And those issues, those priorities, come to us from the producer level. They tell us what's important, whether it's ethanol and the Renewable Fuels Standard, Farm Bill or crop insurance, trade and transportation issues. That's how we score our candidates, based on how well they vote on those particular priorities and issues." [WHO TV, 9/7/14]
US Sen. Tim Kaine: Bruce Braley "Clear Choice" for Senate

While Braley works to put Iowa families first, Ernst's out-of-step plans work for millionaires, not the middle class
Mason City, IA - Today, US Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) traveled through Iowa to speak about the clear choice in the US Senate race. Kaine highlighted Bruce's plans to break through the gridlock and be a Senator that works for all of Iowa's families, not just the wealthiest few.

Kaine spoke with Iowans today on a variety of issues? from Braley's passionate work on behalf of veterans to his commitment to protecting and strengthening Social Security and Medicare for all generations of Iowans. Braley has a strong record of accomplishments for Iowa veterans, including leading a successful effort to secure back-pay that was initially denied to hundreds of Iowa National Guard members, and introducing legislation that cut taxes for businesses hiring veterans. Braley has also worked to protect and strengthen Social Security and Medicare. Braley strongly opposes risky privatization schemes that end guaranteed benefits and put Iowa seniors' retirement security in the hands of Wall Street.

"Bruce Braley has an impressive record of standing up for Iowa's middle class families, reaching across the party divide, and delivering results. Nowhere is this record more evident than his work on some of the issues most important to Iowans - including his passionate work on behalf of veterans and his commitment to protecting and strengthening Social Security and Medicare for all generations of Iowans. Iowans need a Senator who will stand up for their interests - Bruce Braley is that Senator," said Kaine.

Kaine also spoke on the importance of voting early in this year's midterm election. Kaine encouraged all Iowans to vote early by mail or in person because it is the simplest and easiest way to cast a ballot. Iowans can vote early in person from now until November 3, or they can vote by mail anytime between now and Election Day.  Iowans can find their early voting location or can request a ballot to vote by mail at vote.brucebraley.com.

In stark contrast to Bruce's focus on policies that put Iowa families first, Sen. Joni Ernst's plans - including privatizing Social Security, protecting corporations that ship jobs overseas from paying their fair share in taxes, abolishing federal student loans, and opposing a minimum wage increase that would give 300,000 Iowans a raise - would have devastating consequences for Iowa's families.

Kaine was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2012. He was first elected to office in 1994, serving as a city councilmember and then Mayor of Richmond.  He became Lieutenant Governor of Virginia in 2002 and was inaugurated as Virginia's 70th Governor in 2006.

In the Senate, Kaine serves on the Armed Services, Budget and Foreign Relations Committees.

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23 Oct 2014

New York Times Best-Selling Authors Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze's 'The Legacy Journey' Coming to Select U.S. Cinemas Nov. 19

By Nicholas Depew
For only one night, on Wednesday, November 19 at 7 p.m. local time, Fathom Events will bring New York Times best-selling authors Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze's 'The Legacy Journey' to nearly 600 select cinemas nationwide. Taped in front of a live audience in Grand Rapids in September, "Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze Present: The Legacy Journey" will rekindle attendees' "fire" to make the tough financial choices. In this powerful event Ramsey and Cruze present life-changing lessons regarding investing, estate planning, purposeful living, the keys to generational wealth, true generosity and how to raise money-smart kids in a debt-filled world.

"Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze Present: The Legacy Journey" will be shown at the following cinemas in your area on on November 19:

Cinemark Davenport 18 with IMAX 3601 E 53Rd St Davenport IA 52807

Tickets for "Dave Ramsey and Rachel Cruze Present: The Legacy Journey" are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com now. For a complete list of theater locations and prices nationwide, click here - theaters and participants are subject to change).

23 Oct 2014

Braley Touts Plans to Fight for Iowa Families and Students, While Ernst Would Eliminate Department of Education and Jeopardize Federal Student Aid

By Sam Lau
Ames, IA - Bruce Braley today visited Iowa State University to discuss the clear choice in the US Senate race on college affordability and highlight the importance of voting early in this year's crucial midterm election. Joni Ernst has admitted the consequences of her policies would be "very painful and we know that." While Bruce continues traveling the state and talking to Iowans about his plans to fight for all Iowa students and families, not just the wealthiest few, Joni Ernst puts her special interest agenda ahead of Iowa's families and would eliminate the Department of Education, privatize student loans, and increase costs for Iowa students and families.

"A college education is the gateway to economic opportunity, but too often, the rising cost of tuition and other college costs are putting that dream out of reach," said Braley. "Few issues are more important for Iowa families than a strong education, and the choice couldn't be clearer. My opponent would eliminate the Department of Education, privatize student loans, and increase costs for Iowa students and families. While Sen. Ernst may think that we need extreme policies that would inflict, in her words, 'painful,' consequences on Iowa's families, I'll never stop fighting to expand access to a quality college education. Iowans need a Senator who fights for all families and students, not just the wealthiest few."

While Braley is working to reduce the burden of college costs, Joni Ernst said she'd do away with federal student loans and Pell grants, which could put college out of reach for the hundreds of thousands of Iowans who rely on that aid annually for their education. As a report released recently by Braley for Iowa shows, State Sen. Ernst's plan has devastating consequences for Iowa students and families, including:

Across Iowa, eliminating the Department of Education would:
  • Eliminate the Pell Grants that 111,000 students receive.
  • Eliminate the 228,000 federal loans that have been distributed to Iowa students
  • Force Iowa Students Receiving Pell Grants To Pay Up To $5,730 More Per Year For College - Or $22,295 over four years
  • Force Iowa Students To Take On Thousands In Debt Through Private Lenders
  • Slash Federal Work-Study Aid For More Than 4,000 Iowa Students
At Iowa State University:
  • 6,271 students received Pell Grants to attend Iowa State University
  • ISU graduates with student loan debt owed on average $24,300 in federal obligations
Braley has made college affordability a priority throughout his time in Congress. In addition to working to expand the Pell Grant program and keep student interest rates and payments low, he has introduced legislation to renew tax credits that offset tuition and college costs. Braley also supports legislation that allows people to refinance student loans to lower interest rates.

Braley also emphasized today the importance of voting early in this year's crucial midterm election. Voting early by mail or in person is the simplest and easiest way to cast a ballot. Iowans can vote early in person from now until November 3, or they can vote by mail anytime between now and Election Day.  Iowans can find their early voting location or can request a ballot to vote by mail at vote.brucebraley.com.

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23 Oct 2014

Former Labor President Backs Schilling

By Randy Stalsberg

Forret: "He's not a typical Republican. He knows what built America... organized labor and the American farmer."

MOLINE, IL -- Bobby Schilling received a major endorsement today from Bradley Forret, former President and organizer for the Laborers Local 309 in Rock Island. Forret also served as a member of the Great Plains Laborers District Council.

Forret said that Schilling was the better choice for organized labor.

"Bobby Schilling best reflects my beliefs as a business owner, a veteran, a hunter, an outdoorsman, a Christian, a gun owner with rights for concealed carry, and as a laborer," Forret said.
Forret praised Schilling's 13 years of union experience.

"He's not a typical Republican," Forret said. "Bobby is a union man. He knows what built America?organized labor and the American farmer. He'll protect our right to organize and belong to organized labor. And he'll work to fix our economy and create more union jobs."

Forret also pointed out that Schilling is a strong supporter of the second amendment.

"Bobby Schilling respects our constitutional right to bear arms, and he supports the right to carry," Forret said.

"I endorse Mr. Schilling," Forret continued. "And I ask you, as a constituent of the 17th District, to also support him. It's time to vote for the person, not the party."
23 Oct 2014

Notable Amount of Epipen Usage in Schools

By Lainey Tick

I'm reaching out to follow up about an important Illinois issue that has just recently gained a lot of attention:  Epinephrine and the new laws in Illinois allowing for better usage in schools. Northwestern University just released a report claiming that during the 2012-2013 school year, 38 Chicago Public School students and staff were given emergency medication for potentially life threatening allergic reactions. This finding is detailed in the report here.

Medical practitioners across the state are urging more school officials to become trained administrators in order to prevent safety risks associated with allergies. As proven in this report, the need for training is definitely there and as food allergies continue to rise, the people dealing with children must be prepared.

Following national and local legislation, CPS was the first large, urban school district in the nation to develop and implement an initiative to supply all public and charter schools in Chicago with epinephrine auto-injectors ? medical devices used to treat acute allergic reactions.

The fear of anaphylaxis is something Lurie Children's Hospital Advanced Practice Nurse, Christine Szychlinski, knows very well. Szychlinski is the manager of the Food Allergy program within Lurie's Department of Allergy and Immunology, where she has practiced for 35 years. She also does a lot of outreach in the schools. If you're interested in speaking with Szychlinski about this important issue, please let me know and I would be happy to arrange a time for you to connect.

A new Illinois law is giving kids a shot at a healthy school year. It's an epinephrine shot, providing treatment for those at risk of anaphylactic emergencies. Illinois schools are required to have epinephrine available for emergency use and state legislators have taken this requirement a step further in providing timely care for those at risk.

Governor Quinn recently signed into law additional legislation to strengthen the existing epinephrine-in-schools law, now allowing not only school nurses but any trained school employee or volunteer to administer an epinephrine auto-injector to someone believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis from a severe allergic reaction.

Food allergies are on the rise. Currently an estimated one in 13 children in the U.S. is living with a food allergy. Kids with known food allergies avoid their allergens and typically carry epinephrine auto-injectors with them wherever they go in case of accidental exposure. According to national food allergy guidelines, epinephrine is the treatment that should be given first when a person is experiencing anaphylaxis.

Fast facts:

·        According to the CDC, the incidence of food allergy increased 18% from 1997-2007

·        Anaphylaxis is an unpredictable, life-threatening allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death

·        Everyone at risk for anaphylaxis should have an anaphylaxis action plan that include : (1) Avoiding known allergens; (2) Recognizing signs and symptoms; (3) Having immediate access to two epinephrine auto-injectors; and (4) Seeking immediate emergency medical care should anaphylaxis occur

Having access to epinephrine on school grounds is critical, because reports show that among children with peanut allergies who have experienced anaphylaxis at school, 25% had not previously been diagnosed with a food allergy.

The fear of anaphylaxis is something Lurie Children's Hospital Advanced Practice Nurse, Christine Szychlinski, knows very well. Szychlinski is the manager of the Food Allergy program within Lurie's Department of Allergy and Immunology, where she has practiced for 35 years. She also does a lot of outreach in the schools. This legislation is critical to her patients and their families which is why she is pleased that Illinois lawmakers have taken steps to provide additional access to epinephrine auto injectors in the school setting.

I hope you might have an interest in talking with Christine, and running a story that will prompt more schools to take advantage of this important legislation, and get more people aware of the signs of anaphylaxis.

23 Oct 2014

Why are the Holidays So Hazardous to Our Health?

By Ginny Grimsley
Physician Shares Tips for Giving Your Body What It Needs
to Fight Illness

It's a sad statistical fact: The holidays, from Christmas to New Year's, are a treacherous time when it comes to our health.

"There's a spike in heart attacks and other cardiac issues," says Dr. John Young, a physician specializing in the treatment of chronic illnesses through biochemical, physiological and nutraceutical technologies, and the author of "Beyond Treatment: Discover how to build a cellular foundation to achieve optimal health," www.YoungHealth.com.

"The incidence of pneumonia cases spikes - in both cold and warm climates. And deaths from natural causes spike. In fact, more people die of natural causes on Christmas Day than any other day of the year!"

While those numbers are well-documented, the cause(s) are not.

"Stress plays a role, particularly if your immune system is weakened," Dr. Young says. "If you look at how most of us eat from Halloween through New Year's, it's easy to see how the immune system takes a beating and otherwise healthy people become more susceptible to illness during the holidays."

It's basic biochemistry, he says.

"We eat a lot more refined sugar, for instance, which is a carbohydrate that's been stripped of all the vitamins, minerals and proteins that make up a complete carbohydrate," he says. "Our bodies can't use that, so the cells in our digestive organs work overtime, burning up a lot of energy, vitamins and minerals to digest it, and they get nothing back. So, eventually, they grow weak."

So - can we have a little sugar, and good health, too? Dr. Young says we can.

"The occasional slice of pumpkin pie is fine as long as you're also feeding your cells with the nutrients they need - the minerals, vitamins, good quality protein, amino acids, essential fatty acids - to stay healthy."
He offers these tips for staying healthy through the holidays and throughout the year.

•  Get your vitamin D!
Vitamin D is actually a hormone, not a vitamin, and one of our best sources for it is sunshine. Unfortunately, many people work indoors all day, so they get little sun exposure. When they do go outside, they wear long sleeves and sunblock to protect against skin cancer. And, of course, in the wintertime, people in cold climes tend to stay inside. As a result, many of us are vitamin D deficient, and should be taking supplements.

"Vitamin D is crucial to many physiological systems, including our immune defenses," Dr. Young says. "It helps fight bacterial and viral infections, including the flu. It supports our cardiovascular system; optimal vitamin D levels can reduce hypertension, heart attacks and stroke.

"If I feel I'm coming down with a cold, I'll take 40,000 units of vitamin D at bedtime," he says. "The next morning, I usually feel like a new person."

•  Eat your protein - 1 gram for every 2.2 pounds of body weight daily.
In this country, we think a healthy diet means eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. We've forgotten protein, Dr. Young says.

"Our immune system is made up of proteins - our bones are 40 percent protein," he says. "We need protein."

When calculating your protein intake, consider: an egg has about 8 grams, and 8 ounces of fish, chicken, beef or pork have about 30 grams.

Dr. Young does not give any of his patients more than 100 grams of protein a day.

•  Get a good night's sleep, exercise, and manage your stress.
Yup, some doctors' orders never change. Rest, exercise and finding effective, healthy ways to cope with stress are simple ways to pamper your cells.

"One of the many cellular benefits of exercise is that it increases the oxygen in our bloodstream. Every cell in our body requires oxygen, so consider exercise another means of feeding your cells."

It's also important to manage stress during the holidays. With unchecked stress, our body releases large amounts of cortisol which, among other things, suppresses the immune system.

"Take time out to meditate, listen to music, or take a walk in the woods," Dr. Young says. "It feels good - and it's good for you!"

About John Young, M.D.

Dr. John Young, (www.YoungHealth.com), is a medical doctor with more than 15 years' experience working in emergency rooms and pediatric burn units. He's the medical director of Young Foundational Health Center, specializing in treating patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes by addressing the physiological issues and not just the symptoms. He's also medical director of Young Health Products, which incorporate the latest biochemical, physiological and Nobel Prize-winning protocols for optimal cellular nutrition. Dr. Young is the author of "Beyond Treatment." He takes questions via a call-in conference call every Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. Eastern time. Call (760) 569-7676, access code 772967.

23 Oct 2014

HOT GLASS INC. Presents The First Annual Great Pumpkin Bash

By Mary McNeil

A night of Glassblowing Demonstrations, Blown Glass Pumpkins, Food, and Drinks!

When: Saturday, Oct.25th from 6 PM-10 PM

Where: Hot Glass Inc.

104 Western Ave.

Davenport, IA 52801

*Park in the Modern Woodmen Ballpark Lot across the street.

Proceeds from all sales help a support glassblowing classes for at-risk youth.

23 Oct 2014

Local students earn Central College presidential scholarships

By Randy Stalsberg

PELLA, (10/20/2014)(readMedia)-- Area students earn presidential scholarships from Central College for their commitment to high academic achievement.

Annie De Vries of Eldridge is a recent graduate from North Scott H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Tegan Hoover of Leclaire is a recent graduate from Pleasant Valley H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Sarah Kersten of Davenport is a recent graduate from Davenport Central H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Jacob Logan of Bettendorf is a recent graduate from Bettendorf H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Alexis Lotspeich of Davenport is a recent graduate from Davenport West H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Lauren Parsons of Davenport is a recent graduate from Davenport West H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Adam Sargeant of Bettendorf is a recent graduate from Pleasant Valley H S and is now a freshman at Central College.

Central's presidential scholarships range from $14,500 to $18,500 and are renewable for four years. Central evaluates scholarships based on a combination of cumulative high school GPA and ACT/SAT composite test score results.

Central College is a residential liberal arts college dedicated to the education of 1,500 undergraduate students. Founded in 1853, the college is affiliated with the Reformed Church in America and NCAA Division III athletics. Central is a recognized leader in study abroad as a result of its international, residential programs. The college is located in Pella, Iowa, a thriving community of 10,000 two minutes from the state's largest lake and 40 minutes southeast of Des Moines. Learn more at www.central.edu.

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