16 Jan 2015

Iowans to Celebrate National School Choice Week at Monday, January 27 Event in Des Moines

By Trish Wilger, Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education
DES MOINES - School choice supporters from across Iowa will gather at the State Historical Building in Des Moines for a special celebration to commemorate National School Choice Week 2015 on Monday, January 26, 2015. The event is scheduled to feature remarks and a proclamation presentation by Governor Terry Branstad and Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds.

Students, parents, teachers and community leaders will attend the celebration, which will shine a positive spotlight on all types of education options available for children in the Hawkeye State, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, online learning and homeschooling.

The event, which will begin at 2:00 pm, is being organized by the Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education, Iowa Advocates for Choice in Education, Connections Academy, NICHE Homeschools, and the Ankeny Christian Academy.

"Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education is pleased to be a part of School Choice Week festivities in Iowa.  Iowans have many quality options for educating their children, and we are proud to celebrate those options and parental choice in education," said Trish Wilger, Executive Director, Iowa Alliance for Choice in Education. 

Celebrated every year in January, National School Choice Week shines a positive spotlight on all types of effective education options for children, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, online learning, and homeschooling. The celebration is nonpartisan and nonpolitical. National School Choice Week 2015 will feature a history-making 11,082 independently-planned and independently-funded events across all 50 states. 

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16 Jan 2015

MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY DECEMBER GRADS

By Kelli Sanders
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (Jan. 14, 2015) - The student(s) listed below graduated from Mount Mercy University in December 2014. A commencement ceremony will be held Sunday, May 17, 2015, at the US Cellular Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Emily Crystal Mattke of Davenport graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree.

Founded in 1928, Mount Mercy University offers students a personal, practical and faith-inspired education that distinctly blends professional career preparation and liberal arts with a strong curriculum grounded in leadership and service. Mount Mercy University is sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and is a member of the Conference for Mercy Higher Education (CMHE).

Over 85 years, Mount Mercy has grown in size and reputation, adapting to meet the changing educational needs of the Cedar Rapids community. Mount Mercy offers baccalaureate and graduate education to nearly 1,800 traditional, transfer, adult and graduate students. Popular undergraduate majors include business, nursing, criminal justice, education and social work. Graduate programs are offered in business, education, nursing, and marriage and family therapy. For more information on Mount Mercy, visit www.mtmercy.edu.

Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mount Mercy University is the regional Catholic, Mercy University that promises students of diverse backgrounds, ages and faiths a challenging, practical education that inspires them to discover knowledge, build community and lead courageous lives. Mount Mercy offers baccalaureate and graduate education to nearly 1,800 enrolled students and uniquely blends liberal arts education with professional preparation.

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16 Jan 2015

Loebsack Statement on President Obama's Broadband Announcement

By Randy Stalsberg

Cedar Falls, IA - Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement today as he traveled with President Obama to Cedar Falls for his announcement on his plans to provide more Americans with access to fast and affordable broadband. Loebsack was recently named to the Communications and Technology Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over broadband issues.

"The future of economic development in Iowa and across the country depends, in large part, on access to the internet and specifically broadband. I have met with many small businesses, farmers, and rural telecommunication companies who have stressed the importance of expanding high speed internet to rural areas. Broadband also gives small and rural schools the power to vastly expand their educational options, providing students with a cutting-edge 21st Century education regardless of geography. Today's announcement is a necessary step for rural economic development, education, job growth, businesses, farmers, and families

"I was pleased to join President Obama today as he laid out his plan to make sure Iowans and others in rural areas are not left behind. Expanding broadband for all Iowans is critical so that this economic development tool is available for everyone, regardless of where they live."

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16 Jan 2015

MOUNT MERCY UNIVERSITY FALL DEAN'S LIST

By Kelli Sanders

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (Jan. 14, 2015) - The following student(s) are named to the Fall 2014 Dean's List at Mount Mercy University. Students with a semester grade point average of 3.60 or better, and who are graded (letter grade, not pass/fail) for six or more semester hours, are eligible for inclusion on the Dean's List.

Dana Ewan from Bettendorf, Human Resourses Mgmt

Katelyn Bishop from Davenport, Marketing

Megan Lewis from Davenport, Nursing AP

Founded in 1928, Mount Mercy University offers students a personal, practical and faith-inspired education that distinctly blends professional career preparation and liberal arts with a strong curriculum grounded in leadership and service. Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mount Mercy University is sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and a member of the Conference for Mercy Higher Education.

In more than 85 years, Mount Mercy has grown in size and reputation, adapting to meet the changing educational needs of the Cedar Rapids community. Mount Mercy offers baccalaureate and graduate education to nearly 1,800 students. Popular undergraduate majors include business, nursing, criminal justice, education and social work. Graduate programs are offered in business, education, nursing, marriage and family therapy, strategic leadership and criminal justice. For more information on Mount Mercy, visit www.mtmercy.edu.

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Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Mount Mercy University is the regional Catholic, Mercy University that promises students of diverse backgrounds, ages and faiths a challenging, practical education that inspires them to discover knowledge, build community and lead courageous lives. Mount Mercy offers baccalaureate and graduate education to nearly 1,800 enrolled students and uniquely blends our outstanding liberal arts education with equally outstanding professional preparation.

16 Jan 2015

State Treasury Invests in Iowa's Economy.

By Karen Austin

DES MOINES, IA (01/14/2015)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald announced that Tuesday's Invest in Iowa online auction was the most successful to date. All forty-two of Iowa's participating financial institutions received deposits, for a total of $78.2 million. "We use an auction format offering state deposits to Iowa financial institutions six times a year. This allows the state to earn a competitive return on the funds while ensuring local financial institutions have the money they need to keep the economy moving," Treasurer Fitzgerald said. "The program currently has over $232.9 million invested in Iowa banks."

Fitzgerald created the Invest in Iowa program in 1983 as a way to deposit state funds in Iowa financial institutions. The financial institutions hold the funds as CDs and use the money to make loans.

"Demand for funds reached its highest peak this year," Fitzgerald stated. "This is a reflection of the current market. I am glad this program is available to help stimulate lending around the state."

Invest in Iowa quarterly auctions are held on the second Tuesday of January, April, July and October. In response to growing interest in this program, two auctions offering one-year term CDs are also held throughout the year. The next auction is scheduled for February 24, 2015 at 10 a.m and will offer one-year term CDs. Each auction has an established minimum interest rate and a minimum bid. To learn more about the Invest in Iowa program, visit iowatreasurer.gov, select "Invest in Iowa" under the "For Businesses" tab or contact the treasurer's office at 515-281-5368.

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16 Jan 2015

This Week in Downtown Davenport: 1/16 - 1/22

By QC Chamber
Icestravaganza 2015 is finally here! Head out to our new location at the Freight House to watch award-winning ice sculptor, Dawson List, carve ice sculptures live on site. This event will offer FREE indoor kid's activities including a cookie decorating station, crafts, story time, and more. The Farmers Market will remain open until 4 p.m. so you can shop local, too! Get in the winter spirit and hop to River's Edge for public ice skating that afternoon.


Ain't no party like an after party once evening hits. Come on back Saturday night for heavy hors d'oeuvres from Front Street Brewery, a live DJ set by Just Let Go, a cash bar with a vodka luge, and good company during the Icestravaganza After-Party. After-Party tickets are only $10 and can be purchased here or at the door. What a perfect time to see the ice sculptures professionally lit at night!

 

 Featuring wine samples from local wineries and wine distributors, River Music Experience's Winter Wine Experience is back for it's seventh year Saturday! Sip and sample wine, munch on hors d'oeuvres, and enjoy a performance by the Manny Lopez Septet during this benefit for RME and their musical mission. You can still hit this event and catch Icestravaganza, too.   Tomorrow, kick back to some blues/rock tunes from the Nick Schnebelen Band in the Redstone Room.

 

 Considered to be the perfect musical comedy, Guys and Dolls is sure to be a hit at the Adler Theatre on Wednesday. This oddball romantic comedy will steal your heart...and laughs. Make a night of it by attending the pre-show dinner at the RiverCenter. Also at the RiverCenter this week- the Big Brothers Big Sisters Putt-A-Round. Go miniature golfing in the winter and help youth in the community all at once. May the putts be with you!

 

 If you're in need of some warmth this week, look no further than downtown Davenport. Grab a fresh cinnamon roll from Oh So Sweet and treat yourself to a New Orleans Style Ice Coffee at Redband Coffee Company before heading to work. Stop by SiS International Shop for some comfy cozy fair trade socks, hats, and more while you're out! We feel warmer already...

 

See you downtown!  Click here for much, much more.  Presented by the River Cities' Reader.
15 Jan 2015

TEEN-ucopia

By Janine Parr

Wednesdays from 2:30 to 4:30

Teens can stop by the Teen Corner of the Moline Public Library on Wednesdays between 2:30 and 4:30 to enjoy a variety of video games, board games, crafts, and other activities. January crafts will be based on Marvel characters, movies, and shows. For more information call 309-524-2440 or visit us at 3210 41st Street, Moline, IL 61265 or online at  http://www.molinelibrary.com.

Brilliant Companions

Monday, February 2 @ 6:30

The Brilliant Companions, a Doctor Who fan club, will meet at the Moline Public Library on Monday, February 2 at 6:30 to discuss season 9 of the Classic Doctor Who featuring Jon Pertwee. This program is free and open to all ages. No registration is required. For more information call 309-524-2440 or visit us at 3210 41st Street, Moline, IL 61265 or online at http://www.molinelibrary.com.

Teen Advisory Group

Thursday, February 5 @ 3:30

The Teen Advisory Group of the Moline Public Library will meet on Thursday, February 5 at 3:30. Quad City area teens in grades 6 through 12 are invited to help plan programs and events for teens, give feedback about the library, and meet new friends. No registration is required. For more information call 309-524-2440 or visit us at 3210 41st Street, Moline, IL 61265 or online at http://www.molinelibrary.com.

Anime Club

Tuesday, February 17 @ 3:30

Fans of anime, manga, and all things Japanese are invited to join the Moline Public Library's Anime Club on Tuesday, February 17 at 3:30. Bring your anime and manga to share with the group or exchange for something new. This program is free and open to ages 12 to 21. No registration is required. For more information call 309-524-2440 or visit us at 3210 41st Street, Moline, IL 61265 or online at http://www.molinelibrary.com.

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15 Jan 2015

ELLSWORTH COMMUNITY COLLEGE FALL DEAN'S LIST

By Robin Anctil
iOWA FALLS, Iowa (January 14, 2015) - One hundred thirty-eight students have been named to the Fall 2014 (August to December) Dean's List at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls, including MEGAN DENNY and TROY MUILENBURG, both of Bettendorf. To be eligible for the Dean's List, students must have taken 12 or more credit hours during the semester (a full-time class load) and have earned at least a 3.5 grade point average while attending ECC classes in Iowa Falls or online. Part-time students are not included on this list, and developmental courses do not count toward a student's GPA. The ECC faculty, administration and staff congratulate these students for their academic excellence.


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15 Jan 2015

QCSO Music Education Fundraiser at Chili's

By QCSO

Eat a delicious meal at Chili's located at 4020 East 53rd Davenport, IA between now and March 15, 2015 and help support QCSO music education programs.  Chili's will match 15% of your pre-tax bill and donate that amount to Volunteers for Symphony.  Simply present one of the attached coupons or say "Symphony" when you pay your bill.

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15 Jan 2015

Richard Ross: Girls in Justice and Juvenile in Justice

By Natalie Dunlop
Davenport, Iowa (January 14, 2015) - The Figge Art Museum is partnering with Augustana College to present Girls in Justice and Juvenile in Justice, a nationally acclaimed project by photographer Richard Ross.

Each year in the United States there are nearly 150,000 minors as young as 10 years old booked into confinement facilities for reasons ranging from truancy to violent crime. Many have histories of abuse, abandonment and addiction. Over the past eight years, Ross has traveled to juvenile detention facilities across the country, photographing young prisoners and recording their stories. The result is large-scale photographs which focus on the young people Ross has encountered, accompanied by their own personal stories.

The more recent photographs by Ross include the young women he met in juvenile detention centers all over the United States. The images, along with the heart-wrenching personal stories, will be featured at the Figge in Girls in Justice for the first time publically. The exhibition will open Saturday in the fourth-floor gallery, and will be on view until March 15.

Ross's earlier work with both young men and women will be included in Juvenile in Justice at Augustana Teaching Museum of Art beginning March 9. The photographs put a face on juvenile detention centers and allow the viewer a glimpse into the lives of these inmates. The exhibition will be on display through April 18.

Both exhibitions are funded through a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

Ross holds the title of Distinguished Professor of Art at the University of California, Santa Barbara. His work has been exhibited internationally, and monographs of his work have been published, including in Museology and The Architecture of Authority. Ross has published two books in conjunction with this project: Juvenile in Justice, with a foreword by Ira Glass, host of NPR's This American Life; and Girls in Justice, with a foreword by Marian Ross Edelman, founder of the Children's Defense Fund. Both books will be available in the Figge Museum Store.

Companion Programming:

FIGGE EVENTS:

Film: What I Want My Words to Do to You

6 p.m. Thursday, January 29 • John Deere Auditorium

This documentary of a writing workshop led by playwright Eve Ensler takes an unprecedented look into

the minds and hearts of the women inmates of New York's Bedford Hills Correctional Facility.

 

Any One of Us: Words from Prison

7 p.m. Thursday, February 19

Augustana students will perform a collection of stories written by women in prison moving toward healing

and change as they use their voices to impact policy, laws and treatment of incarcerated women.

 

Closing Reception/Artist Talk

Thursday, March 12

5:30 p.m. Closing Reception • 7 p.m. Artist Talk

Mingle with Figge members and photographer Richard Ross before joining Ross in the Figge auditorium

for a talk about his experiences.

 

Exhibition Tours

1:30 p.m. Sunday, January 25, February 22

1:30 p.m. Saturday, January 31

 

AUGUSTANA EVENTS:

Juvenile in Justice Opening Reception

4 p.m. Friday, March 13

Augustana Teaching Museum of Art, Centennial Hall

Richard Ross will be present at the reception to chat with attendees.

 

Panel Discussion

7 p.m. Tuesday, March 24

Augustana Teaching Museum of Art, Centennial Hall

A panel discussion on issues of juvenile injustice as it relates to the Quad-Cities area.

About the Figge Art Museum

The Figge Art Museum is located on the riverfront in downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays the museum is open until 9 p.m. Admission to the museum and tour is $7. Admission is free to Figge members and institutional members, and free to all on Thursday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. To contact the museum, please call 563.326.7804, or visit www.figgeartmuseum.org.

About Augustana Teaching Museum or Art

The Augustana Teaching Museum of Art is in Centennial Hall on Augustana's campus at 3701 7th Avenue. The museum consists of a permanent collection of 4,250 art objects and also sponsors a rotating series of gallery exhibitions and programs during its annual season, serving more that 35,000 visitors each year. Hours are noon to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday when school is in session. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information about the museum please call 309.794.7469, or visit www.augustana.edu/artmuseum.

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