22 Aug 2014

Simon welcomes Class of 2025 back to Carbondale Middle School

By Ken Lowe

Speaks about education reform initiatives

Welcoming the Class of 2025 back to school, Lt. Governor Sheila Simon highlighted a new leadership program aimed at keeping Carbondale Middle School students on track to graduate.

Simon joined Principal Marilynn Ross to tout the first CMS Leadership Academy, which provided students with tools to handle stress and inspire good behavior. The summer academy builds on a discipline program students will learn about in the opening days of class that aims to increase the time students are spending in class.

The future college Class of 2025 is now in sixth grade.

"The Class of 2025 is going to shape the future Illinois," Simon said. "We need to provide every student, from Carbondale to Chicago, a clear path for success. Investing in their education is an investment in our state workforce."

The year 2025 is the deadline set by Illinois leaders to have 60 percent of working-age adults hold a college certificate or degree. Economists say the highly educated workforce will be needed to attract and retain jobs of the future.

As part of the 60 by 2025 strategy, Simon's office is working with the state's public universities and community colleges to bring up college completion rates among students through Guided Pathways to Success, which aims to streamline course requirements so more students can graduate on time, in less debt and with a career connection. She also helped launch the state's first math curriculum to cut down on remediation needs and led the Classrooms First Commission as it recommended ways for districts to redirect $1 billion from administration to classrooms.

Simon serves as the state's point person on education reform and chairs the Joint Education Leadership Committee for the P-20 Council, the state's top educational advisory body. This was Simon's second address to the future college Class of 2025 in Carbondale. She first visited in 2011 when the Class of 2025 was in third grade at Thomas Elementary School.

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22 Aug 2014

Banners Awarded in Iowa State Fair Sheep Show

By Lori Chappell

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Amthauer Club Lambs of Beaman was awarded the Champion Ram banner at the Wether Sire/Dam Sheep show judged Friday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Mark Hindman of Albia captured the Reserve Champion Ram banner.

Champion Eve honors went to Hobbs Show Lambs of Persia while the Reserve Champion Ewe was exhibited by Junk Family Club Lambs of Hudson.

Additional results below:

Black Face Yearling Ram

1) Anderson/Brix, Atlantic

2) Scott and Shelly Schmitz, Rhodes

3) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

4) Dylan Deemer, Lacona

5) Sloan Farms, Alburnett

Black Face Ram Lamb 142.5>

1) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

2) Taylor Made Show Lambs, Perry

3) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

4) Hobbs Show Lambs, Persia

5) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

6) Counsell Club Lambs, Orchard

7) McIntosh Farm, Dunkerton

8) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

9) Bierle Club Lambs, Creston

10) Bierle Club Lambs, Creston

11) SE Club Lambs, Pomeroy

12) SE Club Lambs, Pomeroy

Black Face Ram Lamb 143-162

1) Scott and Shelly Schmitz, Rhodes

2) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

3) Joel Morrical, Clarion

4) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

5) Clayton Dyer, Clio

6) Taylor Made Show Lambs, Perry

7) Hickman Club Lambs, Melbourne

8) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

9) Scott and Shelly Schmitz, Rhodes

10) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

11) Counsell Club Lambs, Orchard

12) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

13) Zane Gray, Toledo

14) RSO Livestock, Story City

15) K & K Club Lambs, Sumner

16) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

Black Face Ram Lamb 163-176.5

1) Amthauer Club Lambs, Beaman

2) Mark Hindman, Albia

3) Edler Club Lambs, State Center

4) Blondie Show Lambs, Lu Verne

5) Scott and Shelly Schmitz, Rhodes

6) Brian Hickman, Atlantic

7) Kolbet Club Lambs, Rudd

8) Matthew Weeda, Mount Ayr

9) Matthew Weeda, Mount Ayr

10) Sam McIlrath, Laurel

11) Huntrods Club Lambs, Collins

12) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

13) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

14) Hickman Club Lambs, Melbourne

15) Brian Hickman, Atlantic

16) RSO Livestock, Story City

17) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

Black Face Ram Lamb 177-184.5

1) Cody and Mackenzie Schmitz, Rhodes

2) Sam McIlrath, Laurel

3) Cody and Mackenzie Schmitz, Rhodes

4) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

5) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

6) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

7) Sam McIlrath, Laurel

8) Matt Bothell, West Liberty

9) Andrews Club Lambs, Independence

10) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

11) Henry Show Lambs, Ames

12) McIntosh Farm, Dunkerton

13) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

14) Huntrods Club Lambs, Collins

15) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

16) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

Black Face Ram Lamb 185 and up

1) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

2) Junk Family Club Lambs, Hudson

3) Sam McIlrath, Laurel

4) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

5) Hickman Club Lambs, Melbourne

6) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

7) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

8) Bacon Club Lambs, Knoxville

9) Matthew Weeda, Mount Ayr

10) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

11) Sloan Farms, Alburnett

12) Hickman Club Lambs, Melbourne

13) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

Black Face Yearling Ewe

1) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

2) Zane Gray, Toledo

3) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

4) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

5) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

6) Tom Moser, Garden Grove

7) Raymond McElvain, Centerville

8) Raymond McElvain, Centerville

Black Face Ewe Lamb 112.5 and less

1) Hobbs Show Lambs, Persia

2) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

3) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

4) Hobbs Show Lambs, Persia

5) Joel Morrical, Clarion

6) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

7) Prunty/Dyer Club Lambs, Corydon

8) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

9) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

10) McIntosh Farm, Dunkerton

11) Mason Burkett, Grand Junction

12) Mason Burkett, Grand Junction

13) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

14) Shimmering Pines Club Lambs, New Virginia

15) Hocraffer Show Lambs, Clarion

16) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

Black Face Ewe Lamb 113-123

1) Hild Club Lambs, Webster City

2) Hild Club Lambs, Webster City

3) Anderson/Brix, Atlantic

4) Joel Morrical, Clarion

5) Lents Livestock, Lake Park

6) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

7) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

8) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

9) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

10) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

11) Rylee Stevenson, Oakland, Neb.

12) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

13) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

14) Prunty/Dyer Club Lambs, Corydon

15) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

16) Hoot Owl Ridge Suffolks, Colo

17) Henry Show Lambs, Ames

18) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

Black Face Ewe Lamb 124-127.5

1) Hobbs Show Lambs, Persia

2) Clayton Dyer, Clio

3) Taylor Made Show Lambs, Perry

4) Corey Happel, Fairbank

5) Sam McIlrath, Laurel

6) Prunty/Dyer Club Lambs, Corydon

7) Anderson/Brix, Atlantic

8) Tom Moser, Garden Grove

9) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

10) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

11) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

12) McIntosh Farm, Dunkerton

13) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

14) Bierle Club Lambs, Creston

15) Zahradnik Livestock, Inc., Belle Plaine

16) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

Black Face Ewe Lamb 128-133

1) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

2) Mason Burkett, Grand Junction

3) Gutknecht Club Lambs, Cedar Falls

4) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

5) Duane Sprouse, Keota

6) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

7) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

8) Counsell Club Lambs, Orchard

9) Bacon Club Lambs, Knoxville

10) Kolbet Club Lambs, Rudd

11) Bacon Club Lambs, Knoxville

12) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

13) Van Wert Club Lambs, Hampton

14) Hoot Owl Ridge Suffolks, Colo

15) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

16) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

Black Face Ewe Lamb 134-138.5

1) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

2) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

3) Van Wert Club Lambs, Hampton

4) Duane Sprouse, Keota

5) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

6) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

7) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

8) Britney Stevenson, Oakland, Neb.

9) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

10) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

11) Kolbet Club Lambs, Rudd

12) Bacon Club Lambs, Knoxville

13) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

14) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

15) Matt Bothell, West Liberty

16) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

17) McIntire Show Lambs, Gowrie

18) Matt Bothell, West Liberty

Black Face Ewe Lamb 139-144.5

1) Gutknecht Club Lambs, Cedar Falls

2) Shahan Club Lambs, Jefferson

3) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

4) Zane Gray, Toledo

5) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

6) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

7) Shahan Club Lambs, Jefferson

8) Brian Mike, Alden

9) Nick Siedelmann, Linden

10) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

11) McIlrath Club Lamb, Laurel

12) Robinson Club Lambs, Colo

13) Schmitz Farms, Crawfordsville

14) Huntington Club Lambs, Afton

15) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

16) McIntire Show Lambs, Gowrie

17) Bobb Stock Farms, Wever

18) Bierle Club Lambs, Creston

19) Wild Country Club Livestock, Perry

Black Face Ewe Lamb 145 and heavier

1) Junk Family Club Lambs, Hudson

2) Corey Happel, Fairbank

3) Corey Happel, Fairbank

4) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

5) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

6) Medhus Club Lambs, Gilman

7) Wolf Club Lambs, Scranton

8) Anderson/Brix, Atlantic

9) Lents Livestock, Lake Park

10) Andrews Club Lambs, Independence

11) Top Shelf Genetics, Donnellson

12) Edler Club Lambs, State Center

13) Sloan Farms, Alburnett

14) Mason Burkett, Grand Junction

15) K & K Club Lambs, Sumner

16) Henry Show Lambs, Ames

17) Shimmering Pines Club Lambs, New Virginia

White Face/Speckled Face Yearling Ram

1) Hall Family Farms, Grinnell

White Face/Speckled Face Ram Lamb

1) Enfield Clubs Lambs, Collins

2) Huntrods Dorsets, Collins

3) Taylor Made Show Lambs, Perry

4) Huntrods Dorsets, Collins

5) Huntrods Club Lambs, Collins

6) Head Family Farms, Derby

White Face/Speckled Face Yearling Ewe

1) Stars and Stripes Livestock, Tipton

White Face/Speckled Face Ewe Lambs 119.5 and less

1) Heisdorffer Dorsets, Sigourney

2) Taylor Made Show Lambs, Perry

3) McIntosh Farm, Dunkerton

4) Enfield Clubs Lambs, Collins

5) Huntrods Club Lambs, Collins

6) Taylor Made Show Lambs, Perry

7) Tom Moser, Garden Grove

8) Huntrods Dorsets, Collins

9) Huntrods Dorsets, Collins

10) Wild Country Club Livestock, Perry

11) K&K Club Lambs, Sumner

White Face/Speckled Face Ewe Lambs 120 and heavier

1) Heisdorffer Dorsets, Sigourney

2) Britney Stevenson, Oakland, Neb.

3) Duane Sprouse, Keota

4) Adam Vandevanter, Kiron

5) Wasteney Club Lambs, Shannon City

6) Enfield Clubs Lambs, Collins

7) Rylee Stevenson, Oakland, Neb.

8) Wasteney Club Lambs, Shannon City

9) Huntrods Club Lambs, Collins

10) Huntrods Dorsets, Collins

11) Bobb Stock Farms, Wever

12) Sloan Farms, Alburnett

"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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22 Aug 2014

News and Results from the 2014 Iowa State Fair XV

By Lori Chappell

West Union Farm Sweeps Iowa State Fair Oxford Down Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Double O Acres of West Union took top honors in the Oxford Down Sheep show judged Sunday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

The farm was awarded the Champion Ram, Reserve Champion Ram, Champion Ewe and Reserve Champion Ewe banners. They also placed first in the Premier Exhibitor contest.

Van Roekel Family Livestock of Wellman took second place in the Premier Exhibitor contest while Lobdell Oxfords of Freeport, Ill., took third.

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

Yearling Ram

1) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1307 RR, 2/15/2013, 297305

Fall Ram Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-003 NNPRR "New Era", 11/20/2013, 299107

February Ram Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-033 NNPRR "Big Deal", 2/10/2014, 299109

2) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-036 NNPRR "Rare Deal", 2/20/2014, 299112

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1424 QR-NN, 2/6/2014, 298600 Ram

March & After Ram Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-048 NNPRR "Best Deal", 3/12/2014, 299113

2) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-039 NNPRR "What A Deal", 3/2/2014, 299111

Shorn Ram Lamb - All Ages

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-063 NNPRR "DealeRR's Deal", 3/27/2014, 299128

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1422 QR-NN, 1/26/2014, 298598

Pair of Ram Lambs

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Doubole "O" Acres 14-006, 1/20/2014, Applied For

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Yearling Ewe

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 13-053 NNPRR, 2/25/2013, 298175

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 13-058 NNPRR, 3/11/2013, 298181

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1314 RR, 3/5/2013, 297879

4) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1302 RR, 9/13/2012, 297302

Shorn Yearling Ewe

1) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, Van Roekel 1302 RRNN, 1/25/2013, 297364 Ewe

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double 'O" Acres 13-015 NNPRR, 1/30/2013, 298174

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, Van Roekel 1309 QRNN, 2/14/2014, 297360 Ewe

4) Double O Acres, West Union, Houghtaling 13-455 NNPRR, 2/2/2013, 297721

Pair of Yearling Ewes

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-065, 3/5/2014, Applied For

2) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill.

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Fall Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-002 NNPRR "Bailey", 11/10/2013, 299127

January Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-030 NNPRR "Sweet Deal", 1/28/2014, 299117

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-007 NNPRR "Fancy", 1/20/2014, 299115

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1405 RR, 1/21/2014, 298352

February Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-032 NNPRR "Golden Opportunity", 2/10/2014, 299110

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Everett 1482 NNPQR "Kara", 2/2/2014, 298373

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1409 QR, 2/17/2014, 298356

March & After Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-060 NNPQR "Senorita", 3/5/2014, 299126

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-041 NNPRR "Bambi", 3/2/2014, 299119

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1435 QR-NN, 3/2/2014, 298604 Ewe

4) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1411 RR, 3/1/2014, 298358

Shorn Ewe Lamb - All Ages

1) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1430 RR-NN, 2/17/2014, 298603 Ewe

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-065 NNPRR "Enora", 3/5/2014, 299120

3) Hamilton Sheep, Bryant, Double "O" Acres 14-037 RR-NNP, 3/15/2014, 298774 Ewe

4) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1421 RR-NN, 1/25/2014, 298597 Ewe

5) Hamilton Sheep, Bryant, Double "O" Acres 14-013 NNP, 2/20/2014, 298773 Ewe

6) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-006 NNPRR "Stylish", 3/28/2014, 299123

Pair of Ewe Lambs

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill.

4) Hamilton Sheep, Bryant

Pair of Lambs

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Young Flock

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Flock

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill.

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

4-H Crowns Top Dogs at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Youth from across the state competed in the 4-H Dog Show held Sunday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair. Dogs were judged in two divisions: obedience and handling.

Complete results below:

Champion Pre-Novice A Obedience: McKenzie Lofgren, Muscatine

Reserve Champion Pre-Novice A Obedience: Erica Mehlhaus, Boone

Champion Pre-Novice B Obedience: Jessica Schoonover, Washington

Reserve Champion Pre-Novice B Obedience: Hannah Borst, Adel

Champion Sub-Novice Obedience: Aundrea Cox, Adel

Reserve Champion Sub-Novice Obedience: Tyler Pearson, Corning

Champion Novice A Obedience: Blake Sevier, Orient

Reserve Champion Novice A Obedience: Josie Harvey, Seymour

Champion Novice B Obedience: Kayla Stigers, Letts

Reserve Champion Novice B Obedience: Selena Sampson, Creston

Champion Graduate Novice A Obedience: Krista Pearson, Corning

Reserve Champion Graduate Novice A Obedience: Megan Pearson, Corning

Champion Open A Obedience: Noelle Gray, Jefferson

Champion Open B Obedience: Kassidy Monday, Tabor

Champion Rally Grades 5-6: Kelsey Hildreth, Jewell

Reserve Champion Rally Grades 5-6: Allyse Marx, Bryant

Champion Rally Grades 7-9: Haley Ledford, Fort Dodge

Reserve Champion Rally Grades 7-9: Shannon McLain, Albia

Champion Rally Grades 10-12: Marjorie Lagan, Des Moines

Reserve Champion Rally Grades 10-12: Danielle Hoenig, Keokuk

Champion Senior Handling: Jordyn Shaw, Waverly

Reserve Champion Senior Handling: Jessica Schoonover, Washington

Champion Junior Handling: Rylie Weyhrich, Boone

Reserve Champion Junior Handling: Conner Allender, Jefferson

Champion Intermediate Handling: Samantha Hardaway, Jefferson

Reserve Champion Intermediate Handling: Aundrea Cox, Adel

Top Dogs Take Honors at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Stock dogs and masters gathered in Des Moines to compete in the Stock Dog Trials August 13 at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Titles were awarded in two classes. Open class competition was open to experienced teams while Ranch class was for less experienced dogs.

In each competition, handlers work with their dogs to maneuver a small herd of animals through a series of hurdles and gates. The winners are determined by the fastest negotiation of the course.

Complete results follow:

CATTLE

Open Cattle

1) Jerry Davis, Murray

2) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

3) Wayne Bamber, Alden

4) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

5) Bob Johnson, Tingley

6) Debbie Meier, Alden

7) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

8) Bob Johnson, Tingley

9) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

10tie) Jerry Davis, Murray

10tie) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

12) Mike Davis, Murray

13tie) Curtis Dukes, Kent

13tie) Debbie Meier, Alden

15) Robin Reasoner, Saint Louis, Mo.

16) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

17) Gary Goehring, Keosauqua

18) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

19) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

20) Billy Clevenger, Moscow

21) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

Ranch Cattle

1) Jerry Davis, Murray

2) Gary Goehring, Keosauqua

3) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

4) Joel Hollatz, Exline

5) Mark Triggs, Mount Ayr

6) Mary Bolton, Columbus Junction

7) Justin Keller, Seymour

8) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

9) Curtis Dukes, Kent

10) Christi McKenney, Rock Port, Mo.

11) Curtis Dukes, Kent

12) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

13) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

14) Robin Reasoner, Saint Louis, Mo.

15) Tom Damewood, Milan, Mo.

16) Richard Hall, Massena

17) James Bergert, Williams

18) Wayne Bamber, Alden

19) Monty Hogue, Cameron, Mo.

SHEEP

Open Sheep

1) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

2) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

3) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

4) Bob Johnson, Tingley

5) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

6) Robert Fleming, Leon

7) Jerry Davis, Murray

8) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

9) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

10) Bob Johnson, Tingley

11) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

12) Wayne Bamber, Alden

13) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

14) Jerry Davis, Murray

15) Mike Davis, Murray

16) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

17) Robin Reasoner, Saint Louis, Mo.

Ranch Sheep

1) Curtis Dukes, Kent

2) Tom Damewood, Milan, Mo.

3) Curtis Dukes, Kent

4) Ruth Hermanson, Jewell

5) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

6) Christi McKenney, Rock Port, Mo.

7) Jerry Davis, Murray

8) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

9) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

10) Donna Tuttle, Des Moines

11) Ruth Hermanson, Jewell

12) Mark Triggs, Mount Ayr

13) Jack Doty, Plymouth, Minn.

14) Rachel Ritland, Stanhope

15) Mary Bolton, Columbus Junction

16) Donna Tuttle, Des Moines

17) Richard Hall, Massena

18) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

19) Kari Carney, Norwalk

20) James Bergert, Williams

"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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22 Aug 2014

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Congressman Bruce Braley to Announce Resources to Strengthen Iowa's Rural Econom

By USDA Office of Communications

MARSHALLTOWN, IOWA, Aug. 22, 2014 - TODAY, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Congressman Bruce Braley will travel to Ely and Marshalltown, Ia. to announce Value-Added Producer Grants for Iowa producers and Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants that will expand healthcare and job opportunities throughout the state. Vilsack and Braley will also discuss the many ways that the Farm Bill and Rural Development programs benefit Iowa's rural economy.

The Value-Added Producer Grant program was developed to help agricultural producers generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities, and increase income. The funds being announced were authorized by the 2008 Farm Bill. The 2014 Farm Bill substantially increases funding for this program. The program is an example of how farm bill provisions contribute to continued investment in rural businesses and critical infrastructure, in order to strengthen rural communities and build on rural development initiatives.

Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants provide zero-interest loans and grants to utilities that lend funds to local businesses for projects to create and retain employment in rural areas.

22 Aug 2014

LeClaire Chamber of Commerce Announcements - 08/22/2014

By LeClaire Chamber

COME CRUISE WITH US!

 

September 20th - Twilight Riverboat Dinner Cruise! 5 - 8 p.m. Tickets $45 per person - includes dinner and the cruise!  The Twilight holds 140 people, so get tickets to reserve your spots soon!  The tickets are available at First Central State Bank, LeClaire. Sponsored by The LeClaire Chamber of Commerce.

 

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS!

 

August 29th - Isabel Bloom Ribbon Cutting 103 S. Cody Road - 12:30p.m. Come help Celebrate the Grand Opening! Everyone Welcome!

 

CALENDAR

 

August 22nd - First Central State Bank - LeClaire - Free Community Shred Day 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Paper products only.

 

August 22nd - Wide River Winery - Live Music by Unidynes - 5-8 p.m.

 

August 23rd - Grappling on the Greens - 3rd Annual Golf Tournament Benefiting Pleasant Valley/Five Point Wrestling Club. Sunrise Golf Course. Register by August 15th or same day 7:30 a.m.  Shotgun Start 8 a.m. $60 per person or $235 4 man team. 18 Hole 4 Man Best Shot Tourney. Grill-Out, Hole Prizes, Silent Auction, Bags Tournament for families and non-golfers, and more. Call 563-505-7650 or 563-940-0229 or email zahntrever@pleasval.k12.ia.us or scary1016@hotmail.com for more information about the outing and/or to be a sponsor!

 

August 23rd - Diamond Dash - LeClaire The Neckers Diamond Dash is taking over LeClaire, and the GRAND PRIZE: A $10,000 Hearts On Fire Diamond Ring! Visit all your favorite LeClaire businesses for scavenger hunt clues! For more information and to complete entry form, go to www.neckersdash.com

 

August 23rd - The Faithful Pilot will be open for lunch beginning at noon for Diamond Dash

 

August 23rd - LeClaire Riverfront Farmers' Market 3-6 p.m. LeClaire Levee

 

August 25th - Faithful Pilot - Vino Vaso - $40.00 - A glass to paint, a glass to drink, and a glass to take home!  Ticket includes Chefs cheese and crackers, and a FREE glass of wine.  Tickets available at VINO/VASO's FACEBOOK page

 

August 27th - Bierstube Kooby's Karaoke 9p.m.-1a.m.

 

August 28th - Dr. Crystal's Chiropractic Care - Game Night with Essential Oils! 419 N. Cody Road, LeClaire. 12 noon and 5:30 p.m. Earn tickets that day or online to win items in several drawings, and get more information at http://www.nataliecgoddard.com/doterra/ RSVP 480-567-4356

 

August 29th- Isabel Bloom Ribbon Cutting 103 S. Cody Rd. - 12:30 p.m. Everyone Welcome!

 

August 29th - Wide River Winery - Live Music The Whoosdads? - 5-8 p.m.

 

August 30th - LeClaire Riverfront Farmers' Market 3-6 p.m. LeClaire Levee

 

August 30th- Bierstube Live Music The Old 57's 9pm-1am

 

August 31st - Faithful Pilot Wine Tasting - $20.00 for 15 wines.  3:00-5:00, includes wine and chefs small bites - $5.00 of each glass sold to a local women's charity

 

SAVE THE DATE

 

September 1st - Faithful Pilot Closed for Labor Day

 

September 5th - First Friday - LeClaire 5-8p.m.

 

September 6th - LeClaire Riverfront Farmers' Market 3-6 p.m. LeClaire Levee

 

Sept 14th - Faithful Pilot - PINOT PIG - A CHARITY HOG ROAST on the LeClaire Levee 12-4p.m. Why? Cuz it feels good to give back - NO KID HUNGRY Cost:$50.00 includes admittance, All U CAN Eat HOG ROAST with an organic hog coming from Rustik Rooster with farmer Karl Blake (From TV's Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern) and sides, live music from The Matriarchs, and $10.00 of your ticket sales goes to charity!  Goal is to raise 2K *You do NOT need to be 21 to enter but will be wrist banded at the front gate. Tickets will be available at faithfulpilot.com and in the restaurant, or call 563-289-4156.

 

September 20th - Star Gifts for Kids 6th Annual Golf Outing Hole prizes, door prizes, and food at The Riverview Roadhouse after outing. 18 holes with cart 60.00 dollars per person - 4 person best ball begins at 9:30 a.m. Olathea Golf Course. All money raised stays in the LeClaire and Princeton Area. Call Barry, 563-949-6969, for more information.

 

September 20th - Twilight Riverboat Cruise 5 - 8 p.m. Tickets $45 per person - includes dinner and the cruise!  The Twilight holds 140 people, so get tickets soon to reserve your spots.  The tickets are available at First Central State Bank, LeClaire.

 

September 21st - 50th ANNUAL FALL HARVEST DINNER - Silver Creek Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, LeClaire Masonic Center, 113 S. Cody Rd., LeClaire. Swiss Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Green Beans, Salads, Rolls & Butter, Deserts & Beverage. Donation of $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children under 10. Serving from 11 a.m. till 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome!

 

September 24th- Bierstube Live Music from The Parrot Head Club & The Fry Daddies 7pm-11pm

 

October 9th - LeClaire Community Library/LeClaire Chamber of Commerce Business Fair LeClaire Community Library - details and more information to come.

 

FYI

 

Essential Oils Classes - Dr. Crystal's Chiropractic Care Beginning August 12th and then every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Classes by Sara Bennion. 419 N. Cody Road, LeClaire. 480-567-4356. Visit mydoterra.com/sarabennion for more information.

The LeClaire Riverfront Farmers Market would like to "spotlight" a different downtown business each week during its market on Saturdays from 3 - 6 p.m. No cost opportunity. Tent provided by LRFM.  Electrical power can be arranged. Set-up is between 2 - 2:45 p.m., sales start at 3 p.m. and conclude at 6 p.m., rain or shine!  Use the opportunity to showcase your business. No restrictions on "hand crafted," "American-made" or otherwise. It's your shop - feature and sell what you choose. Contact LeClaireRiverfrontFarmersMkt@gmail.com with preferred dates, and space needs (10x10 tent size limitation).

Faithful Pilot Wednesdays - Still 1/2 priced bottles wine night with Chef's special tapas menu *Coming Soon - Brunch & Lunch so look to our website and Facebook!

Go Fish Marina Bar and Grill, Princeton - Live Music Cody Road Unplugged. Wednesdays 6-9pm

 

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

 

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

 

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND

 

FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION FOR FAMILIES OF ACTIVE MILITARY THROUGH LABOR DAY 2014 The Buffalo Bill Museum is participating in the nation-wide "Blue Star Museum" project, "a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to the nation's active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserves, from Memorial Day, May 26, 2014 through Labor Day, September 1, 2014.

First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire Men's group Saturday at 7:30 am at church; there are donuts, coffee, discussion and Bible Study, plus really great guys! What more could you ask?

First Presbyterian Church, LeClaire Look for us at TugFest! We have a new menu!  And, check out our website:  fpcleclaire.org

The LeClaire Community Library has a LOT going on! Contact LeClaire Community Library, 323 Wisconsin Street, LeClaire, IA 52753, (563)289-6002 or visit http://www.leclaire.lib.ia.us for more information!

LeClaire Information Center Volunteers Needed! Contact Cindy Bruhn at info@visitleclaire.com or 563-650-7963 to volunteer.

 

PROPERTY LISTINGS

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

Park Run Apartments/Newbury Living complex - 1, 2, & 3 Bedrooms Available - 1701 Iowa Drive, LeClaire, Iowa 52753. 1 BR, 2 BR or 3 BR unit. Call (563) 289-5159 more information today!

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

LeClaire Events Coming Up!

May-Oct - LeClaire Riverfront Farmers' Market - Every Saturday, 3-6 p.m. on the LeClaire Levee

August 16 - Cars and Coffee on the Levee - begins at 8 a.m. - Bring your wheels!

August 23 - Diamond Dash

September 6 - Vettes on the River - LeClaire Levee - in support of Vietnam Veterans

October 5th - Bierstube - Dogtoberfest

October 12- Apple Fest

December 5-7 - Christmas in LeClaire

 

Chamber Networking Events - Everyone Welcome!

September 9th - Steventon's - evening 5:30 -7pm

October 14th - Faithful Pilot - lunch- noon

November 11th - Bier Stube - lunch - noon

December 9th - Subway - lunch - noon
22 Aug 2014

Lt. Gov. Reynolds to serve on NLGA State Strategies in Education committee

By Office of the Governor of the State of Iowa

(DES MOINES) - Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds has been selected to serve on the National Lieutenant Governor Association (NLGA) State Strategies in Education committee for 2014-2015. The selection comes in addition to Reynolds' position as NLGA Chair-Elect and Chair of the Policy Resolutions Committee. She was nominated to serve with peers nationwide by the NLGA Chair Connecticut Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman.

"I'm honored to have been chosen, and pleased to be able to serve as the chair of this critical committee on education," said Reynolds. "Iowa has been a leader nationally in terms of our innovative Teacher Leadership and Compensation System, the Governor's Science, Technology, Education and Math Advisory Council and our transformational education reform. Governor Branstad and I know that to ensure our children are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow, they must have a world-class education today. I look forward to the opportunity to share Iowa's story and am eager to hear of progress occurring in other states."

Reynolds was elected Iowa's 45th Lieutenant Governor on Nov. 2, 2010.  She serves as the co-chair of the Governor's Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Advisory Council. Her passion for STEM education was recognized by STEMconnectorTM when she was the only elected official named to their "100 Women Leaders in STEM." She currently chairs their STEM Food & Ag Council. She has led economic development trade missions to China, Germany, South Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines and Thailand.

NLGA is a professional association enabling policy discussion on a broad range of topics, an exchange of best practices, and an opportunity for lieutenant governors to develop leadership priorities and shared solutions for the states and territories.  See www.nlga.us for more information.

A photo of Reynolds can be found here.  For more information on Lt. Gov. Reynolds, please visit www.ltgovernor.iowa.gov.

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22 Aug 2014

Volunteers Needed for NAFA Masters Fastpitch Tournament

By Dr. Jeffrey Bassman

First, I want to thank all of the volunteers who helped out with the first two NAFA tournaments -- the success of these events was due to all of our great volunteer support!

For anyone that was unavailable for the first two tournaments, we are still in need for the upcoming NAFA Masters tournament.  The Masters will take place September 5-7 at Green Valley Sports Complex in Moline (5920 52nd Ave., Moline, IL).

Click the REGISTER button to sign-up to volunteer.

Benefits of volunteering:

  • FREE Volunteer T-Shirt
  • FREE Tournament Entry
  • Lunch voucher
  • Involvement in a fastpitch tournament with elite players from around the world

If you have questions, please contact Ryan Merritt at (309) 736-6825.

Thank you in advance for your help!

22 Aug 2014

BANDITS HOMER TWICE TO WIN 2ND STRAIGHT

By Marco LaNave
J.D. Davis and James Ramsay each go deep to bring Quad Cities within three games of last playoff spot

DAVENPORT, Iowa (August 21, 2014) - Quad Cities third baseman J.D. Davis hit a two-run, fifth-inning home run, and right fielder James Ramsay had a sixth-inning, go-ahead RBI single and a ninth-inning solo home run in a 5-2 River Bandits win over the Beloit Snappers at Pohlman Field Thursday night.

Quad Cities (28-31 second half, 63-65 overall) did not have a baserunner through the first four innings and was outhit, 11-8, but won its fourth straight game at Pohlman Field and for the 13th time in 17 games against Beloit (20-38, 50-78), which committed three errors.

While Snappers right-hander Hunter Adkins set down the first 12 batters of the game, River Bandits right-hander Michael Feliz kept the home team scoreless until the third inning. Snappers catcher Josh Ludy led off the third inning with a double to right-center field, and center fielder B.J. Boyd hit a two-out RBI double to give his team a 1-0 lead.

In the fourth inning, Feliz allowed a leadoff single by left fielder Ryan Mathews. Designated hitter Phil Pohl hit a one-out double down the third-base line to put runners at second and third bases. Right fielder Justin Higley tapped a ground ball in front of home plate and reached first base on an infield single to load the bases. Ludy then hit a fly ball toward the right-field, where Ramsay caught it and made a one-hop throw to catcher Brian Holberton, who tagged out Mathews for an inning-ending double play. Ramsay's third outfield assist in two games kept the deficit to 1-0, although Feliz yielded six hits in the first four innings.

Adkins' perfect string snapped when River Bandits first baseman A.J. Reed led off the fifth inning with a ground-ball single to right field. Davis hit the next pitch over the left-center field fence for a 2-1 lead. With two outs, shortstop Dayne Parker reached on a fielding error by shortstop Branden Cogswell, and Ramsay drew the first walk against Adkins, who was removed from the game after 4 2/3 innings, allowing two earned runs on two hits with three strikeouts. Right-hander Sam Roberts (0-4) got the inning's final out.

With his only lead of the game, Feliz allowed a fifth-inning, leadoff single by Cogswell and a walk to second baseman Melvin Mercedes. Boyd put a bunt along the third-base line, but Feliz bobbled the ball, allowing Boyd to reach and load the bases with no outs. Snappers third baseman Matt Chapman grounded to Parker, who began a double play for the first two outs while the tying run scored. Feliz struck out Mathews to finish five innings, allowing two runs - one earned - on seven hits and one walk with five strikeouts. After Feliz, right-hander Frederick Tiburcio (3-3) worked around two hits and an error for 2 2/3 scoreless innings, striking out four batters without a walk.

In the sixth inning, River Bandits designated hitter Ryan Bottger reached on an error by Mercedes and went to second base on a sacrifice by catcher Brian Holberton. Parker's bunt single put runners at the first and third bases. Ramsay then lined the go-ahead single to left field, and after a groundout and walk loaded the bases, second baseman Marc Wik hit a high chopper against right-hander Joel Seddon behind the pitchers' mound for an infield RBI single to give Quad Cities a 4-2 lead. Both runs were unearned against Roberts. Seddon worked 1 1/3 scoreless innings, before right-hander Tyler Vail yielded Ramsay's second home run of the season - both in the last 13 days against Beloit - in the ninth inning. River Bandits left-hander Chris Cotton worked 1 1/3 scoreless innings for his third Midwest League save.

Now three games behind Wisconsin and one behind Peoria for the Western Division's final playoff spot, Quad Cities continues its series in Beloit at 7 p.m. Friday. River Bandits right-hander Kevin Comer (1-4) is scheduled to face Snappers right-hander Kyle Finnegan (6-8).

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.

22 Aug 2014

GAHC this weekend - Join us for two great films on Sunday, Aug 24th at the BHS auditorium

By G A H C
12:00 pm- Night Crossing - FREE FAMILY FILM! See this Disney classic based on the true story of two families who escape over the Berlin Wall via a home-made hot air balloon!
PG 1 hr 37 mins
2:30 pm-Good Bye Lenin! - $5 Movie!
This critically acclaimed German dramedy takes place in 1989 Germany! A modern classic!
Rated R 2 hrs - must have ID and be over 17
Read QCTime's Linda Cook's review:
Don't miss out on this day of fun and film!Bettendorf High School- 3333 18th St. Bettendorf, IA
22 Aug 2014

Governor Quinn Signs Law to Protect Survivors of Domestic Violence

By Katie Hickey

"Diane's Law" Expands Monitoring of Domestic Abusers Released on Bail

CHICAGO - Governor Quinn today signed legislation to protect survivors of domestic violence. "Diane's Law" allows the courts to order risk assessment and electronic surveillance of those charged with domestic abuse in order to increase protections for victims of domestic violence. Today's action is part of the Governor's agenda to improve public safety across Illinois.

"We need to help protect victims and prevent future tragedies from occurring," Governor Quinn said. "The tragic loss of Diane Kephart's purposeful life left us with further proof that something had to be done to strengthen protection orders. Diane's Law will help our law enforcement authorities enforce restraining orders and increase penalties for those who commit domestic violence."

Diane's Law was written following the murder of Diane Kephart by a former boyfriend on March 15, 2013. Diane was murdered three days after renewing her protective order against an ex-boyfriend.

"I think of mom every day and wonder how much different life could have been if this bill was around a year and a half ago," Jamie Kephart, daughter of Diane Kephart, said. "I pray that it helps protect victims affected by domestic violence the way it is intended to do. I am so grateful the community recognized the necessity for Diane's Law."

House Bill 3744, sponsored by State Representative Barbara Wheeler (R-Crystal Lake) and State Senator Pamela Althoff (R-McHenry), allows the court to order individuals charged with intimate partner abuse including domestic battery, kidnapping, stalking, harassment and attempted murder to undergo a risk assessment evaluation as a condition of bail. The court may also require GPS monitoring of the defendant to help monitor and enforce restraining orders. The new law is effective Jan. 1, 2015.

"Hopefully this legislation will contribute towards keeping the victims of domestic violence safer in the future," said Representative Wheeler. "This measure will be an added tool in the hands of the justice system to protect those potentially in harm's way."

"In the case of Diane Kephart a protective order was not enough to prevent the tragedy that unfolded,"  Senator Althoff said. "This law goes beyond an order of protection and focuses on prevention by ensuring that a person charged with violent crimes is properly monitored by law enforcement."

Governor Quinn has supported and signed numerous initiatives to address domestic violence and protect its victims. He signed several laws in 2013 to address domestic violence and teen dating violence in Illinois, including: House Bill 958, which increases the penalties for domestic violence by classifying domestic violence as a felony if the defendant has a prior domestic violence conviction; House Bill 3379, which requires school boards to adopt a policy on teen dating violence; and House Bill 3300, which protects domestic violence victims who are covered by their abusers' insurance policies. The law allows insurance companies to communicate with the victims in ways that do not divulge personal information or current addresses to their abusers.

The Governor also signed legislation in 2012 to allow prosecutors to use prior domestic violence offenses as evidence in first- and second-degree murder cases involving domestic violence. He has supported initiatives and laws that prevent discrimination against individuals taking out orders of protection and providing time off from work for victims to help them address issues relating to domestic violence.

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