20 Aug 2014

65th Troop Command Brigade Command Sergeant Major to retire

By Sgt. Charlie Helmholt, 139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/19/2014)(readMedia)-- SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - John C. Cycotte of Trivoli, Illinois, command sergeant major of the Illinois National Guard's 65th Troop Command Brigade will retire the end of August, after more than a quarter of a century in uniformed service to our nation.

"I am very proud to have worked with the exceptional one percent of the population who stands up to defend the United States," said Cycotte.

Cycotte said the best part of working in the Guard was his time working with the Soldiers, training and developing them and seeing them step up into leadership positions and succeed.

"He is a very thorough guy," said Master Sgt. Donald Siltman of Virginia, Illinois, 65th Troop Command Brigade surface maintenance mechanic. "Everyone was ready no matter the mission. People knew what they were doing when Cycotte was in charge."

Cycotte was born at Perrin Air Force Base, Texas. He attended high school in Decatur, Illinois, and enlisted in January 1982.

Throughout his long career he held every enlisted leadership position from squad leader to command sergeant major.

"Cycotte brought a lot of experience, good common sense and mentorship to the Soldiers under him," said Sgt. Maj. Vernon Wilfinger of East Peoria, Illinois, the interim command sergeant major of the 65th Troop Command Brigade.

He completed six overseas missions during his time with the Guard, including deployments Kosovo and Iraq.

Cycotte credits his leadership style to many men and women in uniform who he served with over the years.

Cycotte said Soldiers, like his platoon sergeant, from his assignment to Company D, 293rd Engineer Battalion out of Baumholder, Germany, taught him the importance of evaluating and developing training at all levels.

"There are many noncommissioned officers and officers who I have worked with over the years that influenced me and I learned from each of them," said Cycotte.

In his spare time, Cycotte likes fishing, hunting and boating. He recently moved to Florida to pursue a new career with the Transportation Security Administration, where he expects to have a little more time for his extracurricular activities, as well as his family.

After his military service he will relocate to Port Charlotte, Florida, joining his wife Bobbi, also an Army veteran of 21 years, son Michael a Navy veteran, his daughter-in-law Lesley, and four grandchildren.

"He has been around a long time and is one of the top noncommissioned officers in the state," said Siltman. "You hate to see the good ones go."

20 Aug 2014

Lowline Farms Win Awards at Iowa State Fair Show

By Lori Chappell

DES MOINES, IA (08/19/2014)(readMedia)-- Tummons Cattle of Gallatin, Mo., exhibited the Grand Champion Fullblood Bull at the Lowline Cattle Show judged Friday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair. The farm also received the Reserve Grand Champion Fullblood Heifer title.

Fanning Cattle Company of Cordova, Ill., was awarded the Reserve Grand Champion Fullblood Bull honors.

MR Cattle Company of Wilton captured the Grand Champion Fullblood Heifer title.

Both the Iowa Campion Bull and the Iowa Champion Female titles were awarded to Spring Creek Farm of Hampton.

Complete results below (names, hometowns, animal identification):

PB&M Junior Heifer Calf - March 1 to 31, 2014

1) Matt Reinken, Boone, Rcc Millie, 3/2/2014, 22886

PB&M Junior Heifer Calf - Jan. 1 to Feb. 28, 2014

1) Matt Reinken, Boone, Rcc Jewels, 2/8/2014, 22889

2) Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., EZ CANDY 701B, 2/1/2014, PF 22661

PB&M Senior Heifer Calf - Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, 2013

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS Erica J 16A, 9/11/2013, 22184

2) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS One Sweet Honey 33A, 10/16/2013, 22175

3) Double K Adventures, Stewartsville, Mo., KKG Gypsy Rose Lee 23A, 9/10/2013, 20357

PB&M Summer Yearling Heifer - July 1 to Aug. 31, 2013

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS Ericas Ace 13A, 7/3/2013, 20343

PB&M Junior Yearling Heifer - April 1 to 30, 2013

1) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, GMC Honey Dew A178, 4/26/2013, MF 20835

2) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, EZ Margo 316A, 4/13/2013, MF 20801

3) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT Newby's Little One, 4/23/2013, 19879

4) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS Erica Jack 9A, 4/9/2013, 20338

5) Effertz Ez Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., EZ BOXY 158A, 4/20/2013, MF 21597

6) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, BAR J TAMI A22, 4/14/2013, MF 20680

7) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, EZ Emmylou 164A, 4/29/2013, MF 21598

8) Steel Brook Lowline, Whitewater, Wis., Steel Brook Annabelle, 4/21/2013, MF20444

9) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, MCL FLOWER PRINCESS, 4/11/2013, MF 19999

10) Broken Acres, Rock Valley, KB MISS SURE THING 7A, 4/15/2013, MF 21718

PB&M Junior Yearling Heifer - March 1 to 31, 2013

1) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, Pine Hurst Sassafras, 3/9/2013, MF 19582

2) Carriage Hill Farm, Syracuse, Neb., CHF Give Me A Chance, 3/25/2013, MF 22309

3) Litchfield Family Lowlines, Boone, LFL Lily, 3/31/2013, PF 20996

4) Double K Adventures, Stewartsville, Mo., KKG Houdini's Storm 21A, 3/22/2013, 19224

5) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, MCL Turpentine, 3/18/2013, 20001

PB&M Junior Yearling Heifer - Jan. 1 to Feb. 28, 2013

1) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, CSF Emily Alpha, 1/8/2013, MF 19404

2) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, MCL Merak, 2/21/2013, MF 19998

3) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, SRF BLACK KARLA MCL A5, 2/25/2013, MF 21055

PB&M Cow/Calf - Cow Born After Sept. 1, 2011

1) Double K Adventures, Stewartsville, Mo., KKG Pippi Longstocking 19Z with calf 7/15/14, 11/1/2012, 19222

PB&M Cow/Calf - Cow Born Before Sept. 1, 2011

1) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, BAR J WANDA 194U Y3(WITH CALF 5/30/14), 3/23/2011, XF 13610

PB&M Senior Bull Calf - Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, 2013

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS Classy Jack 19A, 9/13/2013, 22181

PB&M Junior Yearling Bull - April 1 to 30, 2013

1) Broken Acres, Rock Valley, KB SUPERSTITION 6A, 4/13/2013, MM21716

Light Weight Steer

1) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD Arends, 7/3/2013, 22951

2) Litchfield Family Lowlines, Boone, LFL Blaze, 4/13/2013, 30995

3) JWJ Lowlines, Isanti, Minn., JWJ Delmar 2A, 6/13/2013, 22293

4) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, MCL SEPTEMBER, 9/13/2013, 22581

5) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD AP, 7/6/2013, 22950

Light Weight Steer

1) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD Art, 6/23/2013, 22948

2) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD Abe, 7/13/2013, 22949

3) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD Arnie, 6/22/2013, 22430

4) JWJ Lowlines, Isanti, Minn., JWJ Morgan 1A, 5/8/2013, 21083

Heavy Weight Steer

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS Beau Attraction 10A, 4/10/2013, 20341

2) Carriage Hill Farm, Syracuse, Neb., KKG Roscoe 25A, 4/19/2013, 20445

Heavy Weight Steer

1) Bar J Ranch, Brooten, Minn., BAR J THUNDER A35, 5/7/2013, 22728

2) Steel Brook Lowline, Whitewater, Wis., Steel Brook Ace, 4/25/2013, 20106

3) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, MCL BUFFALO, 4/5/2013, 21238

FB Junior Heifer Calf - After April 1, 2014

1) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT Charlotte, 4/20/2014, 23003

2) Litchfield Family Lowlines, Boone, LFL Annie, 3/29/2014, 22985

FB Junior Heifer Calf - March 1 to 31, 2014

1) Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BIANCA, 3/16/2014, 22562

2) Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BRANDY, 3/21/2014, 22563

FB Senior Heifer Calf - Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, 2013

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS Adele 20U 18A, 9/12/2013, 22178

2) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, 7C Miracle, 9/7/2013, FF 22191

FB Summer Yearling Heifer - May 1 to June 30, 2013

1) MR Cattle Company, Wilton, LVL/FCC Beaufords Surprise, 6/28/2013, FF 20853 12313080311

2) Fanning Cattle Company, Cordova, Ill., FCC Tati, 5/22/2013, FF19834

3) Brad Ewing, Cincinnati, MGR Jewels, 6/24/2013, FF 21022

4) JWJ Lowlines, Isanti, Minn., JWJ Storm 2A, 5/19/2013, FF21326

5) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD Wendy Dayl, 6/29/2013, FF 22431

6) Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., EZ TAFFY 39A, 6/21/2013, FF 21527

7) JWJ Lowlines, Isanti, Minn., JWJ Skyline 3A, 5/19/2013, FF21327

FB Junior Yearling Heifer - April 1 to 30, 2013

1) Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK AURORA, 4/5/2013, 19722

2) Lakeville Lowline Breeders, Lakeville, Minn., LLB Ahalen A37, 4/3/2013, FF20006

3) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT Tina, 4/13/2013, 21800

FB Junior Yearling Heifer - March 1 to 31, 2013

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., JH Fancy Lady 4A, 3/3/2013, 20312

2) Fanning Cattle Company, Cordova, Ill., FCC Echo's Wink, 3/5/2013, FF20250

3) Bar J Ranch, Brooten, Minn., BAR J Nellie U203A3, 3/7/2013, FF20999

4) Carriage Hill Farm, Syracuse, Neb., CHF Rockin The Spotlight, 3/2/2013, FF 22308

5) Bar J Ranch, Brooten, Minn., BAR J Sandi S12 to 3A6, 3/28/2013, FF21000

FB Junior Yearling Heifer - Jan. 1 to Feb. 28, 2013

1) Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., NEW SIZZLE 2210A, 2/15/2013, FF 19660

FB Cow/Calf - Cow Born After Sept. 1, 2011

1) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT Teddie Bare(WITH CALF 06/17/2014), 6/11/2012, 18827

2) Litchfield Family Lowlines, Boone, LFL Alexa(WITH CALF 3/29/14), 4/13/2012, FF 18098

FB Cow/Calf - Cow Born Before Sept. 1, 2011

1) Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., EZ CRIMSON MARNIE 64U with calf 4/12/14, 8/12/2008, FF 8639

FB Junior Bull Calf - After April 1, 2014

1) Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BARON, 4/6/2014, 22569

2) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT Bugs, 6/17/2014, 23002

FB Junior Bull Calf - March 1 to 31, 2014

1) Lakeville Lowline Breeders, Lakeville, Minn., LLB Big Yager B 11, 3/24/2014, FM 22985

FB Summer Yearling Bull - May 1 to June 20, 2013

1) Prairie College Cattle Company, Jacksonville, Ill., PCCC's Number Uno, 6/18/2013, FM 22726

2) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD Timmy's Diesel, 6/29/2013, FM 22432

FB Junior Yearling Bull - March 1 to 31, 2013

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., JH Mister Jack 5A, 3/5/2013, 20310

2) Bar J Ranch, Brooten, Minn., BAR J BEAU JANGLES 3A4, 3/27/2013, FN20014

FB Junior Yearling Bull to Jan. 1 to Feb. 28, 2013

1) Fanning Cattle Company, Cordova, Ill., FCC/SFR Longmire, 2/2/2013, FM20301

2) Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., EZ BOXCAR WILLIE 3A, 2/5/2013, FM 19536

FB Senior Yearling Bull - Sept. 1 to Dec. 31, 2012

1) Litchfield Family Lowlines, Boone, SFR TURBO, 9/2/2012, FM17701

FB Summer Senior Yearling Bull - May 1 to Aug. 31, 2012

1) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT Yoda, 6/6/2012, 18107

Pair of Heifers

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo.

2) Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg

3) Effertz Ez Ranch, Bismarck, N.D.

4) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove

5) JWJ Lowlines, Isanti, Minn.

6) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls

Pair of Bulls

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo.

2) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove

Get of Sire

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo.

2) Double K Adventures, Stewartsville, Mo.

3) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls

Produce of Dam

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo.

2) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo.

3) Double K Adventures, Stewartsville, Mo.

4) JWJ Lowlines, Isanti, Minn.

5) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland

Best Five Head

1) Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo.

2) Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls

3) Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove

4) Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland

Champion Junior Heifer Calf (PB&M): Matt Reinken, Boone, RRC JEWELS

Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf (PB&M): Matt Reinken, Boone, RCC MILLIE

Champion Senior Heifer Calf (PB&M): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS ERICA J 16A

Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf (PB&M): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS ONE SWEET HONEY 33A

Champion Summer Yearling Heifer (PB&M): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS ERICAS ACE 13A

Champion Junior Heifer (PB&M): Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, PINE HURST SASSAFRAS

Reserve Champion Junior Heifer (PB&M): Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, GMC HONEY DEW A178

Grand Champion Heifer (PB&M): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS ERICA J 16A

Reserve Grand Champion Heifer (PB&M): Pine Hurst Farm, Wellsburg, PINE HURST SASSAFRAS

Grand Champion Cow/Calf (PB&M): Double K Adventures, Stewartsville, Mo., KKG PIPPI LONGSTOCKING 19Z

Reserve Grand Champion Cow/Calf (PB&M): Moo Co. Lowlines, Fruitland, BAR J WANDA 194U

Champion Senior Bull Calf (PB&M): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS CLASSY JACK 19A

Champion Junior Bull (PB&M): Broken Acres, Rock Valley, KB SUPERSTITION 6A

Grand Champion Bull (PB&M): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS CLASSY JACK 19A

Reserve Grand Champion Bull (PB&M): Broken Acres, Rock Valley, KB SUPERSTITION 6A

Grand Champion Steer: Bar J Ranch, Brooten, Minn., BAR J THUNDER A35

Reserve Grand Champion Steer: Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS BEAU ATTRACTION 10A

Champion Junior Heifer Calf (FB): Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BIANCA

Reserve Champion Junior Heifer Calf (FB): Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BRANDY

Champion Senior Heifer Calf (FB): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., TCS ADELE 20U18A

Reserve Champion Senior Heifer Calf (FB): Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, 7C MIRACLE

Champion Summer Yearling Heifer (FB): MR Cattle Company, Wilton, LVL/FCC BEAUFORDS SURPRISE

Reserve Champion Summer Yearling Heifer (FB): Fanning Cattle Company, Cordova, Ill., TCC TATI

Champion Junior Heifer (FB): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., JH FANCY LADY 4A

Reserve Champion Junior Heifer (FB): Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., NEW SIZZLE 2210A

Grand Champion Heifer (FB): MR Cattle Company, Wilton, LVL/FCC BEAUFORDS SURPRISE

Reserve Grand Champion Heifer (FB): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., JH FANCY LADY 4A

Iowa Champion Female (FB): Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BIANCA

Champion Cow/Calf (FB): Effertz EZ Ranch, Bismarck, N.D., EZ CRIMSON MARNIE 64U

Reserve Cow/Calf (FB): Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT TEDDIE BARE

Champion Junior Bull Calf (FB): Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BARON

Reserve Champion Junior Bull Calf (FB): Lakeville Lowline Breeders, Lakeville, Minn., LLB BIG YAGER B 11

Champion Summer Yearling Bull (FB): Prairie College Cattle Company, Jacksonville, Ill., PCCCS NUMBER UNO

Reserve Champion Summer Yearling Bull (FB): Triple D Farms, Iowa Falls, DDD TIMMYS DIESEL

Champion Junior Bull (FB): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., JH MISTER JACK 5A

Reserve Champion Junior Bull (FB): Fanning Cattle Company, Cordova, Ill., FCC/SFR LONGMIRE

Champion Senior Bull (FB): Litchfield Family Lowlines, Boone, SFR TURBO

Reserve Champion Senior Bull (FB): Gatewood Genetics, Eagle Grove, GAT YODA

Grand Champion Bull (FB): Tummons Cattle, Gallatin, Mo., JH MISTER JACK 5AG

Reserve Grand Champion Bull (FB): Fanning Cattle Company, Cordova, Ill., FCC/SFR LONGMIRE

Iowa Champion Bull (FB): Spring Creek Farm, Hampton, SPRING CREEK BARON

"Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair. The 2014 Fair ends today. The 2015 Iowa State Fair is set August 13-23. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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20 Aug 2014

News and Results from the 2014 Iowa State Fair XII

By Lori Chappell

Experienced Wives Win Top Honors in Iowa State Fair Contest

DES MOINES, IA (08/19/2014)(readMedia)-- Leslie Eichelberger of Muscatine won first place in the Ladies' Husband Calling contest judged Friday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Second place was awarded to Bonnie Swalwell Eilert of Newton, and third place went to Rose Beauregard of Center Point.

Complete results below:

1) Leslie Eichelberger, Muscatine

2) Bonnie Swalwell Eilert, Newton

3) Rose Beauregard, Center Point

4) Lori Frank, Sterling, Va.

5tie) Marge Mefferd, Des Moines

5tie) LeAnne Hewitt, San Benito, Texas

6) Sheryl Beals, Colfax

7) Virginia Stone, Waukee

8) Michelle Redman, Dauphin Island, Ala.

9) Melissa Longnecker, Des Moines

10) Lisa Snodgass, Indianola

The contest was part of "Rural Americana Olde Tyme Competitions" in Farm Bureau Pioneer Hall. A first prize of $5 and ribbons were awarded to each class.

Farmers Test Their Skills in Iowa State Fair Contest

DES MOINES, IA (08/19/2014)(readMedia)-- Teams of farmers competed in the Adult and Youth Farmer's Challenges on Thursday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

In the Adult division, each male/female team competed in six farm-related events such as bale throwing, egg gathering and an obstacle course, and were awarded points for their placement in each event. The team with the most points at the end of the challenge was named the Farmer's Challenge Champion and received a $300 cash award.

In the Youth division, teams of two boys and two girls competed in bale toss, egg gathering, bale shuffle and obstacle course competitions.

Complete results below:

ADULT FARMER'S CHALLENGE

1) Luke Wilson, 35, Prairie City, and Andrea Wilson, 36, Prairie City

2) Steven Allgood, 26, Eddyville, and Devan Voss, 24, Eddyville

3) Zach Mosbey, 23, Hedrick, and Ashley Mosbey, 25, Hedrick

YOUNG FARMER'S CHALLENGE

1) Hunter Hamilton, 18, Lone Tree; Savannah Keitzer, 16, Mediapolis; Mikayla Dolch, 18, Villisca; and Seth Weirup, 16, Delmar

2) Jay Spitler, 18, Belmond; Cody Bonnstetter, 18, Belmond; Rachel Freland, 18, Prairie City; and Kallie Malloy, 15, State Center

3) Bobbi Fogle, 17, Oskaloosa; Carey Stroh, 16, Peru; Justin Rottinghaus, 17, La Porte City; and Joshua Sunberg, 17, Red Oak

"Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair. The 2014 Fair ended August 17. The 2015 Iowa State Fair is set August 13-23. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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20 Aug 2014

HU PITCHES KERNELS BY BANDITS

By Scott Kornberg

Quad Cities strikes out 14 times in 4-2 loss

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (August 18, 2014) - Andrew Thurman tossed six strong innings but the Quad Cities River Bandits offense struck out 14 times in a 4-2 defeat at the hands of the Cedar Rapids Kernels, who won their season-high seventh game of the season Monday at Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Cedar Rapids starter Chih-Wei Hu (6-1) gave up a lone unearned run on three hits over six innings to earn the win. The Taiwanese right-hander struck out eight without walking a batter, and only allowed Quad Cities to put runners in scoring position in one inning. The River Bandits have now fanned 45 times over the last four games, in which they've gone 1-3, losing all three contests by two runs or less.

Shoddy defense helped the Kernels get the scoring started in the second. Thurman got the first two outs of the inning on a strikeout and dribbler back to the mound before a throwing error on Quad Cities shortstop Thomas Lindauer allowed Cedar Rapids center fielder Zack Larson to reach first. A double off the bat of Logan Wade brought Larson all the way around to score the first run of the game. Wade came home when the next batter, J.D. Williams, tripled to right-center to make it 2-0. Both runs were unearned off Thurman (5-9), who took the loss despite fanning seven against zero walks with three runs, one earned, on six hits in six innings.

Quad Cities was able to get on the board in the fifth for the only time against Hu. An error on Cedar Rapids third baseman Jonatan Hinojosa placed J.D. Davis on first. Marc Wik then tried to bunt him over, but popped the ball up in the air. That forced Davis to hold at first, and when the ball dropped to the turf, Hu threw him out at second on a 1-6 fielder's choice. Brett Booth singled to put runners on first and second with one out, and then James Ramsay lifted a double to center to score Wik and cut the Kernels' lead to 2-1. Ramsay finished 2-for-4 with both of Quad Cities' runs batted in.

With Hu out of the game and the score 3-1 Cedar Rapids in the seventh, Quad Cities was helped when Davis reached first on an error, this one by Cedar Rapids second baseman Ryan Walker. Wik struck out, but Davis stole second during Booth's at-bat, which ultimately ended in another strikeouts. Ramsay then singled up the middle to bring home Davis and trim the Cedar Rapids lead to one. However, Cedar Rapids reliever Brandon Bixler got Thoams Lindauer to pop out to second on a 3-2 pitch to end the threat.

Kernels reliever Dallas Gallant gave up a double to Chase McDonald in the eighth, with a wild pitch advancing the River Bandits' designated hitter to third, but struck out A.J. Reed to end the River Bandits' chances in that frame. Gallant fanned both Ryan Bottger, who had entered the game for Davis in the bottom of the seventh and Wik, before yielding a single to Booth with two outs in the ninth. Gallant picked up his fifth save by getting Ramsay on strikes to end the game.

The Kernels improved to a season-best six games over .500 at 66-60, 34-21 in the second half while Quad Cities dropped to 61-64, 26-30. The River Bandits are scheduled to send Blaine Sims (3-4, 4.30 ERA) to the mound tomorrow at 6:35 p.m. against Cedar Rapids' Kohl Stewart (3-5, 2.42).

UP NEXT: The season's final homestand opens with MidAmerican Energy Day and Family Sunday presented by KWQC and B100 at 1:15 p.m. Aug. 24. Pregame autographs are at 12:30 p.m., Bark in the Park means dogs are welcome to the Modern Woodmen Berm, and Kids Run the Bases after the game. The River Bandits are then home through Aug. 29. Tickets are available at www.riverbandits.com.

20 Aug 2014

Governor Quinn Takes Bill Action **Monday, August 18, 2014**

By William Palmisano

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today took action on the following bills:

 

Bill No.: HB 3681

An Act Concerning: Regulation

Exempts certain payment system operators from licensure by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 3798

An Act Concerning: Government

Changes quorum requirements for certain state boards.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 4535

An Act Concerning: Regulation

Exempts applicants with an advanced degree from an accredited U.S. educational institution from an English proficiency test prior to licensure as an architect or engineer.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: HB 4653

An Act Concerning: Criminal Law

Enhances penalties for domestic battery offenders with similar prior convictions in other jurisdictions.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: HB 4741

An Act Concerning: Local Government

Changes current law to allow current and former military members between the ages of 35 and 40 to apply for a position as a firefighter.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 4782

An Act Concerning: Civil Law

Extends the amount of time condominium associations have to lease certain units.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: HB 5488

An Act Concerning: Regulation

Requires that the Continuity and Record Evaluation patient care needs assessment tool be identical to the version used by the federal Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 5678

An Act Concerning: Education

Allows the Western Illinois University Board of Trustees to sell, lease or transfer and convey specified property.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 5681

An Act Concerning: Education

Requires the Western Illinois University Board of Trustees to hold one quarterly meeting at the Quad Cities campus each year.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 5697

An Act Concerning: Public Aid

Permits military dependents to remain eligible for and receive disability services if the military member is reassigned out of state.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 5742

An Act Concerning: Regulation

Authorizes Illinois Department of Public Health to designate a hospital as an Acute Stroke-Ready Hospital if certain requirements are met.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: HB 5785

An Act Concerning: Local Government

Streamlines the process for consolidating certain units of local government.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: HB 5856

An Act Concerning: Local Government

Permits voters to vote to dissolve and consolidate their fire protection district with an adjoining district.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: HB 5935

An Act Concerning: State Government

Makes technical changes to the Illinois Department of Human Services Home Services Program and creates the Home Services Medicaid Trust Fund.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: SB 125

An Act Concerning: Government

Provides for the lending or donation to a presidential library or museum items linked to President Barack Obama's service as an Illinois State Senator.

Action: Signed

Effective: Immediately

 

Bill No.: SB 3440

An Act Concerning: Public Health

Amends the Illinois Rural/Downstate Health Act regarding Access Fund.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: SB 3504

An Act Concerning: Regulation

Requires insurance companies to issue notifications to consumers regarding mine subsidence coverage.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

Bill No.: SB 3554

An Act Concerning: Education

Adds a non-voting member to the Illinois Purchased Care Review Board.

Action: Signed

Effective: Jan. 1, 2015

 

 

 

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20 Aug 2014

Matt Flinner Trio tour coming to Iowa Sept. 5

By Mike Romkey

Matt Flinner ? "one of the best mandolin players ever," according to Downbeat magazine ? is coming to Iowa for a show, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, when the Bucktown Revue Presents an Evening With The Matt Flinner Trio.

The Trio will play an hour-long set headlining a special music-only edition of The Bucktown Revue.
Marc and Brandi Janssen from Iowa City will perform in the first half of the show, along with solo banjoist Jon Eric, Q-C bluegrass favorites Milltown, and the Barley House Band.
Each Matt Flinner Trio concert features three "music du jour" tunes. Trio members draw inspiration from the community they're visiting and write a new instrumental for debut that evening.
The Bucktown Revue is a monthly variety show recorded live for Internet broadcast, featuring music, poetry and humor held at Davenport Junior Theater, 2822 Eastern Ave., Davenport. 

Tickets are $20 and may $12 and may reserved online at the Bucktown Revue's website, and paid for at the door.
Matt Flinner Trio: www.mattflinner.com/trio/
19 Aug 2014

THE SALVATION ARMY Participates in DAY OF CARING

By Holly Nomura
QUAD CITIES, USA: On August 20, 2014, fifteen local John Deere Employees will have the opportunity to help brighten up a homeless shelter with a fresh coat of paint and a splash of color.

The Family Service Center is a 108-year-old building that requires a lot of maintenance. Over 100 people live here every day, and 55%-60% of them are children.

Major Gary Felton, Quad Cities Coordinator, states "We do our best to make the surroundings at the shelter as beautiful as we can on a very limited budget. When a homeless family enters our shelter, we want them to know they are important to us and deserve to have nice surroundings during their fresh start."

John Deere will supply the volunteers, Valspar provided the paint, and United Way manages the program.

The press is invited to share the experience with our volunteers on Wednesday.

WHEN: Wednesday, August 20, 2014

10:00am - 3:00pm

LOCATION: Family Service Center, 301 W. 6th

Street, Davenport, IA 52803

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19 Aug 2014

Braley Promotes Importance of Farm Bill and RFS to Iowa with Sen. Stabenow

By Sam Lau
Braley joined by Stabenow, chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, at events in Des Moines, Boone and Springville

Des Moines, IA - Today Bruce Braley highlighted the importance of the bipartisan Farm Bill and a strong Renewable Fuel Standard to Iowa's economy at events in central and eastern Iowa with U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Braley and Stabenow visited FEC Solutions in Des Moines, the Iowa State University BioCentury Research Farm in Boone, and the Linn Co-Op Oil Co. Elevator in Springville.

"When it comes to protecting Iowa agriculture jobs, there's a clear choice in the race for US Senate," Braley said. "I worked across the party divide for three years to help pass a bipartisan Farm Bill, and I've fought to protect the job-creating Renewable Fuel Standard from the EPA's proposed cuts. State Sen. Ernst, on the other hand, stands with the Big Oil interests backing her campaign against the Farm Bill and is 'philosophically opposed' to the job-creating RFS. I grew up in rural Iowa, worked in ag jobs growing up, and will always work to put the 75,000 Iowans whose jobs depend on renewable energy first."

Bruce has a strong record of promoting Iowa agriculture and fighting to grow Iowa's rural economy. He worked for three years across party lines to pass the bipartisan Farm Bill that is critical to Iowa jobs and Iowa's farming communities.

He has also fought staunchly 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)."
19 Aug 2014

Governor Quinn Signs Laws to Protect Vulnerable Adults and Seniors

By Katie Hickey

New Laws Improve Procedures for Reporting and Resolving Problems with Individuals in Nursing Homes or Community Settings

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today signed two new laws that protect vulnerable adults and senior citizens across Illinois. The new laws improve procedures for reporting and resolving problems with individuals in nursing homes or community settings. Today's action is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to improve safety, care and quality of life for Illinois' senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

"Protecting our most vulnerable family members is one of the most important duties we have," Governor Quinn said. "These new laws will help ensure that our older adults and individuals with disabilities receive the highest quality of care no matter where they choose to live."

"The health and safety of our loved ones in nursing homes and long-term care facilities is one of our top priorities," Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck said. "New means of accepting and compiling complaints about a nursing facility will help the Department better identify new ways to investigate and substantiate anonymous complaints, ultimately helping to ensure quality care for residents."

"The law to expand the authority of the long-term care ombudsman will make sure that older adults and persons with disabilities ages 18 to 59 who live in a community setting and receive medical assistance waiver services and managed care services receive the same advocacy rights and quality of life protections as people who reside in nursing homes around the state," Department on Aging Director John K. Holton said. "Furthermore, this law now allows for ombudsman to have unrestricted private communication with any consenting resident without the additional consent of a legal guardian."

House Bill 5703, sponsored by State Representative Michael Unes (R-Pekin) and State Senator Julie A. Morrison (D-Deerfield), allows complaints about a nursing home or long-term care facility to be submitted electronically to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). It also requires that complainant questions be provided on the IDPH website, along with notification that complaints made with less information are far more difficult to respond to and investigate. IDPH will annually review the complaint process and produce reports for long-term care advisory boards and councils, who can provide suggestions on how to investigate and substantiate anonymous complaints while eliminating frivolous ones. HB 5703 takes effect immediately.

"These are common sense reforms that allow for a better complaint and response process," Representative Unes said. "This will make for a more fair procedure to investigate complaints and provide for facilities to better understand the complaints made with Public Health."

Senate Bill 798, sponsored by State Senator Heather Steans (D-Chicago) and State Representative Naomi Jakobsson (D-Urbana), expands the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program to include advocacy for individuals in the Adult Protective Services program. The new law also allows ombudsmen more open access to individuals living in community-based settings and allows the ombudsman to report any business-related offense directly to the Attorney General or the county state's attorney. The new law is effective Jan. 1, 2015.

"This law expands the long-term care ombudsman program, enhancing its capabilities, reach and coordination with other agencies," Senator Steans said. "It's good news for senior citizens and families navigating the often confusing world of long-term care, and it's an essential part of Illinois' ongoing nursing home reforms."

"With this new law, the ombudsmen will be able to have direct contact with our citizens living in community-based settings," Representative Jakobsson said. "That direct contact will enable the ombudsmen to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves."

Governor Quinn also today signed Senate Bill 2958, sponsored by Senator Steans and State Representative Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago), which creates a three-year pilot program for certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to administer medication in a limited setting under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This will help fill the immediate need for more healthcare professionals created by the Affordable Care Act. The law is effective immediately.

In 2013, Governor Quinn signed legislation to create the state's first-ever Adult Protective Services Unit to ensure that every allegation made by those who are elderly or disabled is thoroughly investigated. The Governor has increased eligibility levels for households to qualify for programs such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Illinois home Weatherization Assistance Program for those who need assistance paying heating bills during winter months, with a priority given to households containing elderly members, persons with a disability or young children.

The elderly are often the targets of financial exploitation. Over the years, Governor Quinn has signed legislation that strengthens training standards for employees of financial institutions who have direct contact with customers, increased the penalties for financial exploitation of the elderly or those who are disabled, and for the Illinois Department on Aging to receive reports of elder abuse or neglect from senior service providers via the internet. He also signed legislation allowing the state to freeze a defendant's assets if he or she is charged with financial exploitation of the elderly, giving law enforcement a chance to obtain reports of elder abuse or neglect.

Governor Quinn issued an executive order to strengthen protections for adults with disabilities who are suspected victims of mistreatment in state-operated facilities and to ensure that potential cases be properly reviewed and referred to the appropriate authorities.

The Governor has proclaimed July "Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in Illinois" every year since 2009.

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19 Aug 2014

Illinois Army National Guard commissions 18 new lieutenants

By Illinois National Guard PAO

SPRINGFIELD, IL (08/18/2014)(readMedia)-- The Illinois Army National Guard's 129th Regional Training Institute Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois, commissioned 18 Soldiers as second lieutenants during the OCS graduation ceremony at Springfield High School, Aug. 17. To meet the commissioning requirements, an officer candidate must complete more than 658 hours of classroom and field instruction. Candidates are evaluated on leadership abilities along with academics. They must also complete many physical and mental tasks, such as road marches and tactical exercises. One traditional class is held one weekend a month for 16 months with two weeks of continuous annual training. The accelerated class is completed in 57 consecutive days out of state. The 129th has commissioned 2,310 officers from the program.

The five newly commissioned accelerated program officers are:

• 2nd Lt. Sonji Davis of Waukegan, Illinois, with the 1244th Transportation Company in North Riverside, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Reasudeen Katideen of Rockford, Illinois, with Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Mattoon, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Michael McPeek of Springfield, Illinois, with Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Mattoon, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Matthew Mullins of Normal, Illinois, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 33rd Military Police Battalion in Bloomington, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Jeremy Wenthe of Carterville, Illinois, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment in Marion, Illinois

The 13 newly commissioned traditional program officers are:

• 2nd Lt. William Adkins of Nokomis, Illinois, with Detachment 1, Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Sullivan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Martin Anderson of East Peoria, Illinois, with the 5th Civil Support Team in Bartonville, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Joseph Hahn of Deerfield, Illinois, with Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery in Milan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Matthew Maddox of Troy, Illinois, with the 445th Chemical Company in Shiloh, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Carlos Ortiz of Princeville, Illinois, with the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Forward Support Company in Milan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Brian Ramirez of Chicago, with Company B, 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment in Elgin, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Sarah Roth of Chester, Illinois, with the 445th Chemical Company in Shiloh, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. David Smejkal of Wheaton, Illinois, with Company C, 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment in Kankakee, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Kevin Spears of Edwards, Illinois, with Company C, 1st Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment in Litchfield, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Andrew Trine of Sherman, Illinois, with the 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Support Company in Milan, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Brandi Tyne of Urbana, Illinois, with Company A, 634th Brigade Support Battalion in Mattoon, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Alfred Vidrio of Aurora, Illinois, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 33rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion in Machesney Park, Illinois

• 2nd Lt. Juan Villa of Peoria, Illinois, with the 5th Civil Support Team in Bartonville, Illinois

Outstanding OCS graduates were awarded the following:

• 2nd Lt. Juan Villa received the Erickson Trophy after being named the class distinguished honor graduate for top overall cumulative performance in leadership, physical fitness and academics.

• 2nd Lt. Matthew Maddox received the Leadership Award for the highest overall leadership evaluation score over the entire OCS program.

• 2nd Lt. William Adkins received the Physical Fitness Award for the highest average score on the OCS Army Physical Fitness Test.

• 2nd Lt. Carlos Ortiz received the Academic Award for holding the highest academic average in the class.

Individual high-resolution photos of each Soldier are available, please contact the Illinois National Guard Public Affairs Office

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