30 Apr 2014

Quad-City Area Labor-Management Council Announces Scholarship Winners

By David Buller

I. Weir Sears & Louis De Frieze 2014 Scholarship Recipients are Kirsten Anne Tauke and Daniel Rafael Alonso

 

Each recipient received a $1000.00 Scholarship at the recent QCALM Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon, for their exceptional essays on the history of labor-management relations.

Their Scholarship will go to the college or university they will be attending this fall. Kirsten will be graduating from Moline High School and is the daughter of Brian and Connie Tauke.  Daniel will be graduating from Moline High School and is the son of Daniel and Anna Alonso.

30 Apr 2014

QCSYEs announces conductors for String Ensemble and Prelude Strings

By Benjamin Loeb

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce that Michele Ottesen and Dortha DeWit will be conducting Youth String Ensemble and Prelude Strings respectively beginning in the 2014-15 season.  They will join QCSYEs Music Director Benjamin Klemme and Youth Choir Director Mary Tallitsch to round out the QCSYEs conducting staff.  This year both Prelude Strings and String Ensemble were conducted by Interim Conductor John Schultz who will be leaving to devote his time to Schultz Strings, performing as a freelance violinist and teaching privately in the Iowa City area.

Prelude Strings and String Ensemble are introductory ensembles for young string musicians with a focus on improving technique, developing ensemble skills, and acquiring performance experience. The season will kick off with the August 16/17 retreat for all QCSYEs groups and begin regular rehearsals on Thursday nights.  These two groups will appear on all three QCSYEs concerts, including the Side by Side concert on February 22. Admittance to String Ensemble (and Youth Philharmonic and Youth Symphony) is based on a live audition held in early June.  Participation in Prelude Strings requires no audition, only a completed online application form and a teacher's recommendation.  All information to be posted soon at the QCSO website.

Michele Ottesen is currently in her 6th year as the orchestra director at Davenport North and Wood Intermediate School.  A native of Davenport, Ms. Ottesen spent seven years as a member of the Quad City Youth Symphony under the direction of James Dixon and Daniel Culver.  She holds a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University, and a MM from the University of Michigan.  Her principal violin teachers include Doris Preucil, Andrés Cárdenes, and Stephen Shipps.  Prior to returning to the Quad Cities, Ms. Ottesen was a member of the Dakota String Quartet, and served as principal second violin in the South Dakota Symphony.  She has been a member of the Quad City Symphony since 1998.

Dortha DeWit was born in Anchorage, Alaska and grew up in Michigan.  Her early violin studies were with her mother, Jean Manning, also a violinist, teacher and conductor; later teachers included Romeo Tata, Roland and Almita Vamos, Richard Young, and Josef Gingold.  She

holds a Bachelor of Music degree in violin performance from Oberlin Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music from Indiana University, where she also did doctoral coursework.  She has performed with orchestras and in solo and chamber recitals throughout the Midwest.  In addition to maintaining a private violin and viola studio, Mrs. DeWit teaches at Augustana College. She has also taught at St. Ambrose University and has done lessons and workshops for public schools including the North Muskegon (MI) Public Schools and the Davenportand Bettendorf School Districts.  Her orchestral experience includes the Quad City Symphony, where she is currently assistant principle second violin, West Shore Symphony, Grand Rapids Symphony, and the Clinton Symphony, in addition to working with orchestras in Quincy IL, Galesburg IL, and Evansville IN.  Mrs. DeWit conducted the SEISTA Junior Honors Orchestra in 2014.  She helped found the Quad City Youth Symphony Youth String Ensemble and was its principal conductor for twenty-two years, and she was also instrumental in forming the Quad City Youth Prelude Strings, conducting that ensemble for five years.  Mrs. DeWit is 30-year member of the Quad City Symphony as well as playing in the Serenata String Trio and a clarinet, violin and piano trio at Augustana College.

We are all looking forward to a wonderful 2014-15 season.  Please don't forget that the final QCSYEs concert will be on May 4, 2014 at Centennial Hall, Augustana College, in Rock Island.  You can purchase tickets to this season finale here.

30 Apr 2014

JOIN WQPT FOR AN OVEE SCREENING EVENT ON MAY 13

By Lora Adams

MOLINE, IL - WQPT, Quad Cities PBS is holding an OVEE screening at 7 p.m. May 13 of the first episode of the new PBS series "Coming Back with Wes Moore."  Viewers are invited to chat live with WQPT throughout the screening with questions and reactions to the show.

"Coming Back with Wes Moore" tells the story of best-selling author and U.S. army veteran Wes Moore's search for answers to some of the most difficult questions facing veterans returning from war. Moore's journey, spurred by the suicide of one of his oldest friends and a fellow officer, takes him into the personal lives of different soldiers as they attempt to reintegrate into society.

Scheduled panelists include Michael Weinrich, a retired Air Force veteran and Western Illinois University Sociology and Anthropology Professor David Rohall, who is a Marine Corps veteran of the Persian Gulf War and has studied the military for more than 15 years. Rohall has published and presented dozens of articles about military service.

The full documentary can be seen on WQPT at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 21.  Parts two and three will air May 28 and June 4.

For more information on all of WQPT's "Embracing Our Military" events and programs, visit wqpt.org/embracing.

WQPT, Quad Cities PBS is a media service of Western Illinois University.

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30 Apr 2014

AARP Applauds Iowa General Assembly for Passing Elder Abuse Law

By Ann Black

Des Moines - AARP thanks the Iowa House and Senate for coming together and passing Senate File 2239, a bill that for the first time creates a definition of elder abuse and specific protections for older Iowans and their families against elder financial exploitation.

"We applaud the bipartisan work of Iowa lawmakers to create a definition of elder abuse and provide new protection from financial exploitation," said Kent Sovern, AARP Iowa State Director. "In tandem with the Iowa's new Uniform Power of Attorney Act, also passed by the General Assembly this session, Iowans can expect greater protection from the devastating effects of financial exploitation and abuse," said Sovern.

"This bill is a good compromise and a much-needed step toward better defense against financial exploitation, one of the most common types of elder abuse," said Sovern. The bill will allow Iowans to seek protective orders against perpetrators of financial exploitation to put a stop to this form of abuse. "While it is unfortunate this final bill does not include criminal sanctions as originally passed by both the House and Senate, we look forward to working with state leaders and stakeholders to establish criminal provisions next session."

For the past two years, AARP Iowa has been active on the Iowa Elder Abuse Taskforce, working with state leaders, advocates and other organizations appointed by the Iowa General Assembly to study the issue of elder abuse in our state and recommend actions to combat it.  Creating an elder abuse definition and better combatting financial exploitation were the top consensus taskforce recommendations.

AARP particularly thanks Rep. Lisa Heddens (D), Rep. Chip Baltimore (R) and Sen. Mary Jo Wilhelm (D) for their leadership on this important protection for older Iowans and their families.

Protecting the financial security of older Iowans has been a top priority of AARP in Iowa and nationally. Since the Association's founding more than half a century ago, AARP has been at the forefront of fighting for protections against financial exploitation of older Americans in statehouses across the country.

# # #

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment security and retirement planning. We advocate for consumers in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services.  A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP VIVA, a bilingual news source.  AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates.  The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands. More www.aarp.org.
30 Apr 2014

Short Shakespeare, D-Day Bravery, Pet Parade, Summer Programs!

By Lisa Lockheart

A performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream in 45 minutes? Join us at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, May 27 at the Rock Island Main Library for a fast-paced tale of mistaken identities, fairies and puppets, with The Waldorf Theatre Company, a professional touring company sponsored by The Waldorf College Theatre Department in Forest City, Iowa. Waldorf College prides itself on "original practices" from Shakespeare's time. Join us for a free program! Where? Main Library Community Room, 401 19th St. FREE

Celebrate D-Day Bravery: The Men of the Normandy Invasion, 2:00 pm, Saturday, May 31, Main Library Community Room. 2014 marks the 70th anniversary of the June 6 D-Day invasion. To celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of the US troops, Robert Mueller of French Battlefields will present the story of the American forces' seaborne and airborne invasion of Normandy, France. His program details the critical roles of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions and of the 1st, 4th, and 29th Infantry Divisions, describing events through the actions of individual soldiers. Mueller's presentation includes battlefield maps, historic and contemporary photographs, and ends with a visit to the Normandy American Cemetery, site of the day's bloodiest fighting.

Kick Off Summer With Family Fun, Pet Parade! Paws to Read Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival - All Ages! Saturday, June 7, Noon to 3:00 pm, Rock Island Main Library parking lot, 401 19th Street. Come to our carnival to register for summer reading and pick up your summer reading registration prize, while supplies last. The carnival includes events for the whole family -- adults, children and teens! The fun includes a bounce house, animal events, costumed pet parade, K-9 police dog demo, special games, mascot visits, face-painting, and magic!  The carnival schedule includes: Noon - registration, games & snacks, 1:00 pm - Costumed pet parade - enter now! 2:00 pm - K-9 police dog demo by the Rock Island Police Department.  Free hot dogs and pop will be available, and you can also purchase Kona Ice for dessert. Register your pet now for our costumed pet parade by May 31. If your pet has paws and can walk on a leash or be carried in a secure carrier, it qualifies! Prizes for best reading theme, best pet/person match, most original entry. To sign up your pet, download this entry form and return it to any Rock Island Library.


Children's Storytimes, Legos, Crafts!  Evening Storytime: 6:30 pm, May 5, 30/31 Branch Evening Storytime, 6:30 pm, May 13, Southwest Branch Wind down your day with a story for your little ones! Morning Storytimes, 10:30 am at these locations: Tues., May 6, 30/31 Branch Wednesday, May 7, Southwest Branch Friday, May 2 & May 9, Main Library Fun story, song & activity for ages birth to five. Lego Block Club, 4:00 pm, these locations: Wed., May 7, Main Library May 14, 30/31 Branch May 21, Southwest Branch Develop creativity and building skills, ages K-6. Kid's Crafternoon - 4:00 pm, May 28, Main Library. Fun make & take spring crafts for ages K-6. To get a head start on more than 85 FREE events for summer, download our June & July calendars now!

30 Apr 2014

Lt. Gov. Reynolds joins broad, bipartisan letter from state leaders in support of the National Guard

By Office of the Governor of the State of Iowa

(DES MOINES) - Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds is joining nearly 40 of her colleagues in asking President Obama to support the U.S. National Guard on the eve of an important congressional hearing. National Guard Bureau Chief General Frank Grass is scheduled to testify to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for Defense on the proposed reductions tomorrow, Wednesday April 30. Lt. Governor Reynolds currently serves on the Executive Committee of the National Lieutenant Governors Association.

"I am working with my peers across the country to highlight this vital state issue which requires serious review," said Reynolds. "The Iowa National Guard has helped communities across the state effectively respond to disasters, like floods and tornadoes. Beyond that, the National Guard is an effective and efficient element of the U.S. total force and has aptly served our nation at home and abroad."

Nearly forty of the seconds-in-command in the states and territories co-signed the letter noting various proposed National Guards cuts would return funding to a pre-9/11 level.  Lt. Governor Reynolds commends the entire Iowa delegation for their engagement on this important issue to the Iowa National Guard, including Congressmen Latham, King, Braley, and Loebsack for co-sponsoring legislation calling for an independent commission to thoughtfully explore the optimal force structure to meet emergency response and national defense needs.

Reynolds continued, "As a state leader, I respect the need to review, modernize, and balance budgets.  I would request that this scrutiny, though, include transparent, careful examination of the cost effectiveness of the National Guard and the essential nature of its service to states and territories."

A copy of the letter co-signed by Lt. Gov. Reynolds can be found here.

This letter echoes continued engagement from Governor Branstad and 49 other governors and the nation's Adjutants General to ensure the National Guard is appropriately valued in national policy discussions.

# # #
30 Apr 2014

Governor Thompson Receives Japanese Decoration

By JULIAN WESLEY

Conferral of The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star Upon Governor James R. Thompson

Former Governor of the State of Illinois and Chairman of the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association

On April 29, 2014 (Japan Time), the Government of Japan announced the foreign recipients of the 2014 Spring Imperial Decorations.  Among the 55 foreign recipients is Governor James R. Thompson, former Governor of the State of Illinois and Chairman of the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association.  He will receive The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star in recognition of his significant contributions to the promotion of mutual understanding and the strengthening of economic relations between Japan and the United States.  The prestigious decoration is conferred by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.

DECORATION: The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star

SERVICE: Contributed to the promotion of mutual understanding and the strengthening of economic relations between Japan and the United States

NAME (AGE): James R. Thompson (77)

MAJOR TITLES:

l  Former Governor of the State of Illinois

l  Chairman of the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association

l  Senior Chairman of Winston & Strawn LLP

ADDRESS (NATIONALITY): Chicago, Illinois (USA)

Governor Thompson's achievements regarding Japan are impressive and many.  As Governor, he took the initiative to promote trade and investment between Japan and Illinois.  He led 8 Illinois missions to Japan, the most by any Governor in the United States, and he had many successful meetings with top Japanese business executives.  His leadership achieved a significant expansion of the Japan-Illinois business partnership.  Mitsubishi Motors selected Illinois for its large vehicle assembly plant, after Governor Thompson presented his state's key advantages beginning with his first trip to Japan in 1979.  During his tenure as Governor, the number of Japanese business facilities in Illinois more than doubled from 260 to 610 and their employment tripled from 12,000 to 38,000.  Illinois became the first state with two offices in Japan:  Osaka in 1983 and Tokyo in 1987.

Governor Thompson has been serving as the Chairman of the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association since 2003.  The annual conferences held in Japan and the U.S. bring together government and business leaders to advance new business ties.  Seven Japanese prefectures and nine Midwest states are members.  Governor Thompson's exemplary leadership and that of Mr. Yuzaburo Mogi, Chairman of the Japan-Midwest U.S. Association, and Honorary CEO and Chairman of the Board, Kikkoman Corporation, continue to make the conference a tremendous success.

Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Fumio Kishida, has sent a congratulatory message to Governor Thompson that recognizes his outstanding contributions.

 

Governor Thompson's Career

Governor Thompson received a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law in 1959.  Before being appointed by President Nixon as U.S. Attorney in Chicago (1971-1975), Governor Thompson argued more than 200 cases before the Illinois Supreme Court and argued the landmark Escobedo case in the Supreme Court of the United States.  He also served as an Associate Professor at Northwestern University School of Law, an Assistant State's Attorney of Cook County (1959-1964), and an Assistant Attorney General of Illinois (1969-1970).

As Illinois' longest-serving chief executive (14 years), Governor Thompson was noted for his skill in settling difficult labor-management problems, his ability to manage one of the nation's largest public budgets while maintaining one of the nation's highest state bond ratings, and his leadership role among his peers.  He served as Chairman of the National Governors' Association, the Midwestern Governors' Conference, the Council of Great Lakes Governors, and the Republican Governors' Association.  During his tenure in office, he traveled abroad extensively on behalf of Illinois business interests, meeting with foreign heads of state and leading government officials; he also led numerous trade missions to Japan, Canada, Mexico, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East on behalf of Illinois businesses.

In 1989, President George H.W. Bush appointed Governor Thompson as Chairman of the President's Intelligence Oversight Board, a position he held until 1993. He was a Commissioner of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks upon the United States (9-11 Commission) by appointment of Speaker Dennis Hastert.

Listed in 1997, 2000, and 2013 by The National Law Journal as one of the nation's 100 most influential lawyers, Governor James Thompson served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of Winston & Strawn from 1991 to 2006, as well as Chairman and CEO of the firm from 1993 to 2006.  As Chairman, he oversaw the growth of the firm, both domestically and internationally.  He presently serves as Senior Chairman.

#####
30 Apr 2014

Notice of Annual Meeting Wednesday, May 7th 5pm

By G A H C

German American Heritage Center members are invited to join us for our 2014 Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 7th at 5pm in our 4th floor meeting room. Organizational information will be presented as well as the voting in of new Board of Directors members.

Please support our efforts and come participate in this process!

Your membership entitles you to attend Annual Meetings. If you are not a member, join by visiting: http://gahc.org/membership.htm

30 Apr 2014

100 Royal Neighbors volunteers will plant gardens to raise food for local families

By Britney Quaale

(Rock Island, IL) -More than 100 volunteers from the Royal Neighbors of America Home Office and area chapters are scheduled to observe JOIN HANDS DAY on Saturday, May 3, by "Growing & Giving TogetherSM." The group also will include individuals from Girl Scout Troop 5895, Rock Island; the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners; and The Friends of Riverside Park Gardens. Also invited are women and their families who use the services of area social services agencies.

Riverside Park in Moline will be the site of several projects including planting fruit, vegetable, and herb gardens which will benefit the Sacred Heart and St. Mary's Food Pantries; designing a children's garden; and creating make-and-take container gardens. Master gardeners will be on site to teach participants how to plant and maintain the gardens. It is estimated that when harvested, the food will feed nearly 100 women and their families.

WHAT: Planting gardens in observance of JOIN HANDS DAY

WHEN: Saturday, May 3; 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Riverside Gardens and Park, 5th Avenue and 34th Street, Moline, IL

CONTACTS: Vickie Sedam (563) 320-1137; Sarah Reemtsma (563) 343-7770

In the event of inclement weather, outdoor garden work will be rescheduled for June.  The make-and-take container garden event will go on as scheduled from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

In its 15th year, JOIN HANDS DAY is sponsored by America's fraternal benefit societies such

as Royal Neighbors of America. The day of service provides an opportunity for adults and young people to build relationships through volunteer activities. As partners, adults and youths work together to plan, organize, and implement activities that improve their neighborhoods.

Royal Neighbors of America, one of the nation's largest women-led life insurance organizations, exists for the benefit of its members. It offers insurance and annuity products to fulfill financial needs of growth, savings, and protection. Members receive valuable benefits and can participate in volunteer activities through the organization's local chapters to help make a difference in their communities. The organization's philanthropic efforts are dedicated to changing women's lives through its national programs, including the Nation of NeighborsSM Program, and through the Royal Neighbors Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity.

Headquartered in Rock Island, IL, with a branch office in Mesa, AZ, Royal Neighbors serves more than 200,000 members and is licensed to do business in 42 states and the District of Columbia.

For more information about Royal Neighbors of America, call (800) 627-4762, or visit www.royalneighbors.org.
30 Apr 2014

Governor Quinn Names Bobbie Gregg Director of DCFS

By Dave Blanchette
CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today appointed Bobbie M. Gregg to continue to lead the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Gregg, who has been interim director of the state child welfare agency since February, will now become Acting Director. A social worker with a law degree from Northwestern University and a Masters in Social Work from Loyola University, Gregg brings more than three decades of administrative and legal experience to the post.

"After considering several candidates, I determined that Bobbie Gregg is the right person to lead this agency at this important time," Governor Quinn said. "Bobbie Gregg is a problem-solver who brings a fresh perspective to DCFS. Her extensive legal and administrative experience- in addition to her passion for protecting our most vulnerable children- will strengthen DCFS at this critical juncture."

Prior to being named interim director two months ago, Gregg served as Deputy Chief for the Bureau of Operations for DCFS. Gregg has previously served as an Assistant Director in the DuPage County Health Department, as a social worker for a local human service agency and as an Assistant United States Attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice.

At DCFS, Gregg oversaw a wide array of agency operations, including resource development and management of agencies providing foster care, shelter care and congregate care. She also managed transition services for older adolescents, education services and programs for children and youth, and support services for relative caregivers.

"I have been impressed with Bobbie Gregg's diligent and organized approach to work and her sincere commitment to fulfilling the agency's mission towards safety, well-being and permanency for Illinois' most vulnerable children," State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) said. "Bobbie Gregg has the skills and experience that this agency needs and that taxpayers demand in this position."

"Our youngest, most vulnerable residents need a strong and zealous advocate who will fight for their best interests," State Representative Greg Harris (D-Chicago) said. "Bobbie Gregg's private sector experience brings an appreciation for the services our community partners provide. Her legal expertise in investigations and compliance makes her an excellent choice to lead DCFS."

"We applaud Governor Quinn's efforts to find a new leader for the Department of Children and Family Services who can bring both a fresh perspective and a demonstrated commitment to the critical work of keeping children safe and families strong," said David Sanders, Executive Vice President for Systems Improvement at Casey Family Programs, the nation's largest operating foundation focused on safely reducing the need for foster care. "We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the governor's office and DCFS to support efforts to improve the safety and success of Illinois' children and families."

Gregg's appointment requires state Senate confirmation. A photo of Acting Director Gregg is attached.

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