18 Jun 2014

SCOTT COUNTY, IOWA IS GIVEN HIGHEST AWARD IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

By Renee Luze-Johnson
Larry Minard, Chair of the Scott County Board of Supervisors, Roxanna Moritz, County Auditor, and Bill Fennelly, County Treasurer, jointly announced today that Scott County has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for Scott County's FY13 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the twenty-seventh (27th) year in a row. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition for excellence in state and local government financial reporting. In order to be awarded a Certificate of Achievement, a government must publish an easily readable and efficiently organized comprehensive annual financial report. This report must satisfy both generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements.

As of June 1, 2014 Scott County is one of only six Iowa counties to hold the Certificate of Achievement. Only 43 of the 1,488 governmental units in the State of Iowa currently hold this honor.

The CAFR report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive 'spirit of full disclosure' to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

The Board of Supervisors has designated the continued achievement of this certification as a priority. The Board, County Treasurer, and County Auditor expressed their appreciation to David Farmer, CPA, Budget Manager in Administration; Craig Hufford, Financial Management Supervisor in the Treasurer's Office; Wes Rostenbach, Accounting and Tax Manager in the Auditor's Office; Dee F. Bruemmer, County Administrator; and the County's auditing firm of Baker Tilly, LLP for their work and professional guidance in helping the County to obtain this financial reporting honor.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals. The association produces a variety of technical publications in various fields of governmental finance, and represents the public finance community in Chicago, IL and Washington D.C.
18 Jun 2014

Frederick Morden presents "The Symphony Immigrates to America"

By G A H C

Join us as we welcome Frederick Morden to the German American Heritage Center as he presents "The Symphony Immigrates to America: From Wiener Schnitzel to Melting Pot" Sunday, June 22nd at 2pm.

How and when did symphonic music grow new roots in the USA? Frederick Morden, retired orchestra-music director, conductor & composer will answer this and more. His talk is a wonderful musical history guide to our exhibition, "100 Years - 100 Stories: Celebrating a Century of Excellence of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra."

This program is sponsored by Humanities Iowa, Western Illinois University Foundtion, Charles B. Preacher Foundation, The Riverboat Development Authority, and the Downtown Davenport Partnership.

18 Jun 2014

Iowa Drivers Can Save $0.68 Per Gallon by Choosing Renewable Fuels

By Aaron Wells

As Turmoil in Iraq Pushes Iowa Gas Prices Up, American Ethanol Brings Relief to Consumers

As the situation in Iraq comes home to motorists paying higher prices at the pump, the Fuels America coalition is urging greater reliance on less expensive, homegrown fuels as opposed to reliance on the volatile market for foreign oil.  In fact, an analysis of state data covering the past year from E85prices.com shows that drivers with "Flex Fuel" vehicles in Iowa can pay an average of $0.68 less per gallon by filling up with E85, which contains up to 85 percent American ethanol.

Ethanol is a higher octane fuel that improves engine performance.  That's why it has been added to gasoline for decades and is now being blended at higher levels into the fuels used throughout professional auto racing. Prices for American-grown renewable fuels like ethanol and advanced biofuels have grown increasingly competitive thanks to America's Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), which ensures that homegrown renewable fuels are available as an option to American consumers.

The analysis of data from "E85 Prices" also revealed that drivers have saved as much as $0.87 per gallon at the pump over the past year by filling up on E85. And because ethanol increases the available fuel supply, it helps to drive down the price of gasoline for all drivers regardless of whether they choose a higher blend fuel like E15 or E85.

In addition to saving American drivers money, the RFS has helped to support 852,000 jobs and $184.5 billion in economic output in the U.S. The renewable fuels industry supports 73,371 jobs and $5 billion in wages in Iowa alone, as well as $19.3 billion in economic output.

Meanwhile, violence in Iraq is driving high gas prices even higher than predicted. Mere worries about oil supply issues have already helped drive world and U.S. prices to their highest levels since September. Americans could see prices for regular gasoline jump more than $0.20 per gallon over the next couple weeks as violence in Iraq continues.

Fuels America's announcement coincides with a paid advertising campaign to highlight the consumer savings the RFS and the renewable fuels industry deliver for Americans. This week, the coalition is running digital ads that ask Americans why we should "let Big Oil pump us dry," and call on our leaders to "invest in affordable, homegrown renewable fuels" by protecting America's Renewable Fuel Standard.

Contact: Aaron Wells, aaron@smoottewes.com, 320-247-7616

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18 Jun 2014

Local Students named to Marquette University's spring 2014 Dean's List

By Rick Martin

MILWAUKEE (June 17, 2014) - The following students have been named to the Dean's List for the spring 2014 semester at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin:

from Bettendorf, Iowa:

Anna Aquino, Master of Physician Assistant, Physician Assistant Studies
Olivia Garman, Bachelor of Arts, Anthroplogy
Alexa Hackfort, Bachelor of Arts, Public Relations
William Herzberg, Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
from Davenport, IA
Emmaline Jurgena, Bachelor of Arts, Journalism
Austin Lower, Bachelor of Arts, Public Relations
from Rock Island, IL
Matthew Noe, Bachelor of Science, Accounting



Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university that draws its more than 11,500 students from all 50 states and more than 75 different countries. In addition to its nationally recognized academic programs, Marquette is known for its service learning programs and internships as students are challenged to use what they learn to make a difference in the world. Find out more about Marquette at marquette.edu.

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18 Jun 2014

Gov. Branstad announces appointments to Iowa's Electrical Examining Board

By Rick Martin

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad today announced appointments to Iowa's Electrical Examining Board.  The Board is responsible for adopting wiring standards that protect public safety, issuing licenses, handling disciplinary matters, setting continuing education standards and determining inspection fees.

The following individuals' appointments are effective June 17, 2014, and are subject to Iowa Senate confirmation. The positions are not paid.

Electrical Examining Board

Allen DeHeer, Winterset

Marg Stoldorf, Red Oak

Emily Wuebker, Afton

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17 Jun 2014

Groups across Iowa Protest Wage Theft by Outback Cleaning Contractor

By Dino Leone

Labor, faith, and community activists are rallying at Outback Steakhouse restaurants in Davenport, Cedar Rapids, Clive, and Sioux City on Wednesday June 18 at 6:00pm to protest the latest case in what experts are calling a growing epidemic of "wage theft" - when workers are not paid some or all the wages they are legally owed for their labor. Last fall, Kossiwa Agbenowassi worked hard seven days per week cleaning an Outback Steakhouse in Coralville to support her young children - but the restaurant's cleaning contractor has refused to pay her for 49 days of her work, totaling more than $2,300 in wages she is legally owed.

Kossiwa was hired by Sandpiper Maintenance and Repair, which held cleaning contracts with at least two Outback Steakhouses in Iowa. Sandpiper is not licensed in the state of Iowa, has no legitimate business address, and has refused to return Kossiwa's calls. This spring, alone and unsure how to proceed, Kossiwa approached the Center for Worker Justice of Eastern Iowa (CWJ), an Iowa City-based group that helps low-wage workers understand and defend their civil and workplace rights. With CWJ's help, Kossiwa has filed complaints with state and federal agencies, and has enlisted the help of faith and labor activists who have also contacted the Outback and its contractor. A few weeks ago, Representative Art Staed called for an investigation into this case by the Iowa Attorney General, Iowa Workforce Development, and the U.S. Department of Labor. In response to growing community concern, the Outback has ended its use of this cleaning contractor...but Kossiwa has still not been paid. CWJ Director Misty Rebik says that while she welcomes the Outback's decision to end its contract with Sandpiper, it's not enough. "The Outback hired this contractor, and benefited from Kossiwa hard labor. She needs to be paid immediately, and the Outback has a responsibility to make sure that happens."

Wage theft is reaching epidemic proportions in low-wage workplaces, according to a 2012 report by the Iowa Policy Project, which estimates that low wage Iowa workers miss out on an estimated $600 million in wages each year. The Iowa legislature considered a bill this spring that would have strengthened penalties against employers who don't pay their workers; it passed the Senate, but the House failed to take action. The Center for Worker Justice of Eastern Iowa is sponsoring Wednesday's actions, with solidarity from labor federations in the Quad Cities, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Sioux City.

17 Jun 2014

Four Local Students on Spring 2014 Dean's List at Mount Mercy University.

By Kelli Sanders

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (June 17, 2014) - The following student(s) are named to the Spring 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.

Those honored include Marissa Albracht and Dana Evan from Bettendorf, Matthew Purl from Davenport, and Kelsey Kernan from Rock Island.

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.

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.

17 Jun 2014

Retirees Tell Braley about Social Security Worries

By Jeff Giertz

Braley predicted Social Security will be "one of the big topics" is his race against GOP nominee Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Red Oak, for the seat now held by Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa.

He and Ernst "have drastically different opinions" on what should be done to ensure the long-term viability of Social Security, Braley added.

Social Security is "part of that promise of retirement security" that seniors rely on and younger Americans expect to be there when they reach retirement age. Privatization is nothing more than "gambling on the stock market," he said.

Full article: http://qctimes.com/news/state-and-regional/iowa/retirees-tell-braley-about-social-security-worries/article_9f17ec8b-1481-5e0d-9b68-ea66118f070d.html


KGAN CBS2 Iowa
Braley Hosts Retirement Security Roundtable in Cedar Rapids
June 16, 2014

Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJTKmv-gdEw

WOI ABC 5 News at 5
Braley Hosts Retirement Secuirty Roundtable in Des Moines
June 16, 2014

Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22Q1U5pVmA0

# # #
17 Jun 2014

Hong Kong Market Reopens for U.S. Beef

By USDA Office of Communications
U.S. to Benefit from Expanded Export Opportunities

WASHINGTON, June 17, 2014 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the United States and Hong Kong have agreed on new terms and conditions that pave the way for expanded exports of U.S. beef and beef products to Hong Kong.

"This is great news for American ranchers and beef companies," said Vilsack. "Hong Kong is already the fourth largest market for U.S. beef and beef product exports, with sales there reaching a historic high of $823 million in 2013. We look forward to expanded opportunities there for the U.S. beef industry now that all trade restrictions are lifted," Vilsack said.

Under the new terms, Hong Kong will permit the import of the full range of U.S. beef and beef products, consistent with access prior to December 2003. The new terms become effective today, June17, 2014. Previously, only deboned beef from all cattle and certain bone-in beef from cattle less than 30 months of age could be shipped from the United States to Hong Kong. Earlier this year, Mexico, Uruguay, Ecuador and Sri Lanka also lifted their longstanding restrictions to provide full access for U.S. beef and beef products.

"Last year, the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) granted the United States negligible risk status for BSE, further affirming the safety of U.S. beef and beef products," said Vilsack. "We welcome this move by Hong Kong and will continue our efforts to break down barriers and expand access for high-quality, safe and wholesome U.S. food and agricultural products in Hong Kong and around the world."

In December 2003, Hong Kong banned U.S. beef and beef products following the detection of a bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)-positive animal in the United States (one of only four cases ever discovered in America). In December 2005, Hong Kong partially reopened its market to allow imports of deboned U.S. beef from cattle aged 30 months or younger produced under a special program for Hong Kong and expanded access to include certain bone-in cuts from cattle less than 30 months of age in February 2013.

Experts in the United States and countries around the world have confirmed that U.S. beef is safe, with extremely low risk of BSE. There has never been a recorded case of BSE transmission to a human through American beef.

While Hong Kong is officially part of China, it serves as its own customs and quarantine administration zone and so maintains its own rules and regulations.

#

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users)

#
17 Jun 2014

Luther College announces 2014 spring semester dean's list

By Luther College

DECORAH, IA (06/17/2014)(readMedia)-- 752 Luther students were named to the spring 2014 dean's list. To be named to Luther's dean's list, a student must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale and must complete at least 12 credit hours with 10 hours of conventional grades (A, B, C, D).

Audrey Bird, Luther College junior of Rapids City, Illinois, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Bird is the daughter of Steven and Susan Bird.

Emily Crowe, Luther College freshman of Davenport, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Crowe is the daughter of Catherine Hanson and David Crowe.

Tyler Crowe, Luther College senior of Davenport, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Crowe is the son of Catherine Hanson and David Crowe.

Kelli Golinghorst, Luther College senior of Dixon, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Golinghorst is the daughter of David and Linda Golinghorst.

Lauren Gonyier, Luther College junior of East Moline, Illinois, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Gonyier is the daughter of Kirk Gonyier and Sheryl Kotula.

Chloe Gumpert, Luther College senior of Eldridge, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Gumpert is the daughter of Joseph and Tamra Gumpert.

Miranda Gumpert, Luther College sophomore of Eldridge, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Gumpert is the daughter of Joseph and Tamra Gumpert.

Carrie Kilen, Luther College senior of Eldridge, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Kilen is the daughter of Kathryn and David Kilen.

Justin Kreiter, Luther College freshman of Davenport, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Kreiter is the son of Nancy and Eugene Kreiter.

Blake Letney, Luther College sophomore of Bettendorf, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Letney is the son of Todd and Robin Letney.

Melissa Lockwood, Luther College junior of Bettendorf, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Lockwood is the daughter of Jeff and Lora Lockwook.

Lindsay Lovaas, Luther College sophomore of Davenport, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Lovaas is the daughter of Jeffrey and Judy Lovaas.

Kayla Naber, Luther College senior of Eldridge, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Naber is the daughter of Glan and Jacqueline Naber.

Kylie Romeo, Luther College junior of Moline, Illinois, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Romeo is the daughter of Kelly and Anthony Romeo.

Kelsey Rose, Luther College senior of Bettendorf, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Rose is the daughter of Kevin and Mary Ann Rose.

Lucille Vens, Luther College senior of Bettendorf, Iowa, has been named to the 2014 spring semester dean's list. Vens is the daughter of Christine Little and Gregory Vens.

Luther is a selective four-year college located in northeast Iowa. The college has an enrollment of 2,500 students and offers a liberal arts education leading to the bachelor of arts degree in 60 majors and pre-professional programs.

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