CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today granted 38 and denied 129 clemency petitions. After inheriting more than 2,500 cases that built up during the previous administration, the Governor continues to make significant progress acting on clemencies.

The 167 clemency petitions acted upon today by Governor Quinn are part of dockets dating back to 2007. Each person granted clemency has recently undergone a criminal background check through the Illinois State Police's Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS).

A granted clemency request for a pardon with expungement allows the petitioner to seek expungement of their conviction through the court system.

Since taking office, Governor Quinn has acted on 2,815 clemency petitions. Governor Quinn has granted 1,032 and denied 1,783 petitions. Those actions include granting 1,011 pardons and authorizing 21 people who had previously received pardons to seek expungement of their convictions.

For additional information on the granted clemency cases, please contact Ken Tupy at the Prisoner Review Board at (217) 782-7274, (217) 502-0948 or ken.tupy@illinois.gov.

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Fills Positions on Capital Development Board, Developmental Disabilities Council and Others

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today announced a number of key appointments to the state's boards and commissions. Today's announcement continues the Governor's commitment to making Illinois government more accountable, transparent and effective.

"The individuals I am appointing are committed to serving the people of our state," Governor Quinn said. "These appointees will work hard every day to move Illinois forward."

As a result of Governor Quinn's efforts to make the executive appointment process more accessible and transparent, residents who are interested in serving on boards and commissions can now apply online. For more information on all of the state's boards and commissions, or to apply to serve on a board, please visit Appointments.Illinois.gov.  

Appointments made by the Governor include :

Advisory Council on Spinal Cord And Head Injuries

James Young of Chicago is a Physician at Rehab Associates of Chicago. He holds an M.D. from Indiana University School of Medicine and an A.B. from Indiana University.

Capital Development Board

Miles Beatty III (reappointment) of Lake Zurich is President of Beatty Decorating Co. He attended Lake Forest College.

Peter O'Brien (reappointment) of Chicago is the Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of MADO Management LP. He attended Loyola University.

Glyn Ramage (reappointment) of Millstadt is a retired construction worker and Business Manager at the Southwestern Illinois Laborers' District Council.

Employment and Economic Opportunity for Persons with Disabilities Task Force

Rene Luna of Chicago is a Community Organizer and Advocate with Access Living. He holds a B.A. from DePaul University.

Dale A. Morrissey of Champaign is CEO of the Developmental Services Center. He has 35 years of experience in disability services and holds a B.S. and an M.S. from Eastern Illinois University. 

HIV/AIDS Response Review Panel

Lam Nguyen Ho of Chicago is staff attorney for Equip for Equality. He holds a J.D. from Harvard Law School, an M. St. from Oxford University and an M.A. and a B.A. from Brown University.

Illinois Community College Board

Dr. Teresa Garate (reappointment) of Chicago is the President and CEO of Neumann Family Services and was formerly the Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Jonathan Jackson of Chicago is a Professor at Chicago State University. He holds an MBA from Northwestern University and a B.S. from North Carolina A&T State University.

Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities

JJ Hanley of Wilmette is the Executive Director of JJ's List. She holds a B.A. from Dartmouth College.

Kathryn Lavin of Chicago is Director of Creative Strategies at Neumann Family Services. She holds an MSW from Jane Addams College of Social Work and a B.A. from Boston College.

Jose A Mendez of Chicago is Director/Employment Specialist for CARES Chicago.  He holds an M.Ed. and a B.A. from University of Illinois at Chicago.

Illinois Independent Tax Tribunal 

Brian Barov of Skokie is an Assistant Attorney General and Deputy Division Chief of the Civil Appeals Division. He holds a J.D. from the IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law and also graduated from the College of William & Mary.

State Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council

Leslee Stein-Spencer of Chicago is Director of Medical Administration and Regulatory Compliance, Chicago Fire Department and a registered nurse. She holds an M.A. from the National College of Education and a B.A. from DePaul University.

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(DES MOINES) - Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad today announced the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEMD) submitted an appeal to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the reconsideration of an earlier FEMA decision to deny funding to four rural electric cooperatives (REC) in northwest Iowa in the aftermath of an ice storm that struck the state earlier this year.

The April 9, 2013, storm caused millions of dollars in damage to electrical utility lines in five Iowa counties: Dickinson, Lyon, O'Brien, Osceola and Sioux. The damage was so extensive that a Presidential Disaster Declaration was issued on May 6, 2013.

FEMA originally denied funding to restore the downed utility lines in the amount of $19 million on Aug. 30, 2013. The reason FEMA gave for the denial was because the utilities did not conduct "comprehensive laboratory testing."

"We hope FEMA will come to a fair and just decision regarding this REC appeal," said Governor Terry Branstad. "This funding is important for the recovery of Iowa communities. Denying such assistance could result in a financial burden for the customers of these cooperatives."

HSEMD filed the appeal in conjunction with Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative, Lyon Rural Electric Cooperative, Osceola Electric Cooperative, and Sanborn Electric and Telecommunications Utility. FEMA has 90 days from the date they receive the appeal to make an evaluation and then, issue a determination.

The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management leads, coordinates and supports homeland security and emergency management functions in order to establish sustainable communities and ensure economic opportunities for Iowa and its citizens.

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From everyone at the Freight House Farmers' Market, we would like to take a moment and thank our friends, families, neighbors and especially, our customers.  Without your support this market would not be a success. We thank you for you support and patronage.  We look forward to a better and brighter new year and we hope that we will prosper together.

You don't have to wait for the outdoor market to start in May.   You can enjoy the indoor market all year long! Featuring many delicious, homemade and local products. What could be better on a cold winters night?

No Manual? Never Fear, Your Library is Here!

If you just received technology under the tree, you may notice that the user's manual is  no longer included. Fortunately, the Rock Island Public Library offers a number of free programs and resources to help you get the most of your new tablet, computer or other portable reading or listening device..

Classes start as early as this Friday, Dec. 27, with a 2:00 pm session on "How to Download eBooks and eAudiobooks" at the Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street. The free class will show participants how to use the OverDrive digital books service to check out books for free to a personal eReader, computer or tablet. The demonstration covers multiple device types.

The same OverDrive session repeats at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, Jan. 21, also at the Rock Island Main Library. Patrons with a current library card from any OverDrive subscribing library can use the service through their library's website.

Additional technology literacy classes coming up in 2014 at Rock Island Library include :

Library How-to: Downloading Magazines with Zinio on:

  • 6:30 pm, Tuesday, Jan. 7, Rock Island Main Library
  • 6:30 pm, Tuesday, Feb. 4, Rock Island Main Library

Zinio is a web-based digital magazine service. Cardholders of participating libraries in Rock Island, Moline and Iowa can use Zinio to download some of their favorite magazines for reading at their convenience. The broad selection of popular titles includes US Weekly, The Food Network, Digital Photo, Chicago Magazine and Rolling Stone. Patrons need a valid library card and Internet connection to use their library's Zinio subscription. Magazines downloaded through the library subscription are free.

Library How-to: Using your Apple iPad tablet:

  • 2:30 pm on Thursday, Jan. 9, Rock Island Main Library.

The free program will familiarize users with various Apple iPad features, and offer some tips on various uses. Participants should bring their iPad. The library does not supply devices for use.

No registration is required for the above classes.

Free mobile apps for using the library's digital products, including OverDrive, OneClickdigital, Freegal and Zinio, are available via the product links on the library website, www.rockislandlibrary.org.

For more events at Rock Island Public Libraries, visit the library website at www.rockislandlibrary.org, follow the library on Facebook or Twitter, or call 309-732-7323.

Founded in 1872, the Rock Island Public Library serves the area through three locations, which include the Main, 30/31 and Southwest Branches, community outreach efforts, and online opportunities that provide resources to enhance personal achievement and stimulate the imagination.

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley will begin holding meetings with Iowans in every county again next year with meetings in Floyd and Chickasaw counties on Friday, Jan. 3.

"Representative government is a two-way street, and it's strengthened by dialogue between elected officials and the people we represent," Grassley said.  "I look forward to events and meetings where I listen to comments, hear concerns and respond directly to questions.  I'm committed to keeping in touch with Iowans."

Grassley has held at least one meeting with Iowans in each of the state's 99 counties every year since he was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1980.

Grassley will be available for 15 minutes before the meeting at Nashua-Plainfield High School and 15 minutes after the meeting at Mitas Tires to answer questions from local reporters.  Otherwise, members of the media should contact the individual host about each event, as Grassley is a guest of each organization.

Here are the details of Grassley's schedule for Friday, Jan. 3:

 

12:45-1:45 p.m.

Q&A with students at Nashua-Plainfield High School

612 Greeley Street

Nashua

*The press availability from 12:30-12:45 p.m. will be in the main office.

2:15-3:15 p.m.

Tour and Q&A with employees at Mitas Tires North America, Inc.

1200 Rove Avenue

Charles City

*The press availability from 3:15-3:30 p.m. will be in the conference room.

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WEST DES MOINES, IOWA - December 23, 2013 - The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) and the University of Iowa Athletic Department are bringing some much-needed assistance to the Iowa Food Bank Association with a special donation of $21,500 through the America Needs Farmers (ANF) initiative, which began three years ago.

"With 1 in 8 Iowans classified as 'food insecure' they face some tough choices during the season of giving.  This generous donation by the ANF program sponsors helps us meet the needs of thousands of needy Iowans, so at least they will have a healthy meal on the family table for the holidays," says Cory Berkenes, state director of the Iowa Food Bank Association.

The Iowa-based ANF initiative was originally launched by the University of Iowa Hawkeyes during the 1985 Farm Crisis to honor the contributions of farmers.  IFBF joined the initiative in 2011 to heighten the awareness of today's diverse farms, while raising donations for Iowa food banks.  "The ANF initiative has helped increase understanding about today's farming, but it has also helped raise awareness of the issue of food insecurity in Iowa," said Craig Hill, IFBF president.

"We are very pleased that our work with Iowa Farm Bureau and ANF is helping to provide a helping hand to those Iowans who need some assistance.  We also invite all who can to consider a gift to their local food pantry during this holiday season and periodically throughout the year," added Gary Barta, director of athletics at the University of Iowa.

To learn more about the ANF program, visit www.americaneedsfarmers.org. The Iowa Food Bank Association is a collaboration of eight food banks that collect and distribute food and essential supplies across the state.  To learn more or to make a donation, go to: www.iowafba.org.

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About Iowa Farm Bureau

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is a grassroots, statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the People, Progress and Pride of Iowa.  More than 153,000 families in Iowa are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve farm and rural prosperity.  For more information about Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit the online media center at www.iowafarmbureau.com.

December 23, 2013 - January 2, 2014
TENTATIVE AGENDA
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Committee of the Whole - 8:00 am
Board Room, 1st Floor, Administrative Center
1. Roll Call: Sunderbruch, Cusack, Earnhardt, Hancock, Minard
Facilities & Economic Development
2. Approval of second of three readings of an ordinance for establishing speed limits on
Scott County Secondary Roads. (Item 2)
3. Approval of a second and final reading of an ordinance to rezone approximately 7
acres from Agricultural-Preservation District (A-P) to Agriculture Service Floating
Zone (A-F) in the southwesterly corner of Section 19, Princeton Township. (Item 3)
Human Resources
4. Approval of personnel actions. (Item 4)
Other Items of Interest
5. Other items of interest.
Regular Board Meeting - Immediately following the Committee of the Whole
Board Room, 1st Floor, Administrative Center
Page 1 of 1
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Organizational Meeting - 11:00 am
Board Room, 1st Floor, Administrative Center
Happy Holidays from your Library!
snowflake-cookies.jpg
"I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year."  A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens

The staff of Rock Island Public Library wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, filled with good reading, good tidings & good health.
New Info - Community Partnerships at Your Library
Get Enrolled for Health Insurance! Walk-in one-on-one help sessions are available on the 2nd floor of the Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street, on every Thursday, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Counselors from Genesis Health System will be on hand to help you sign up. 

Learn Something New in 2014!

Did you get a new eReader or tablet under the tree? Did you notice it didn't come with a manual? Your library can help with new classes for 2014!

red-bow.jpg Library How-To: Download Books,

Learn how to use the Library's eBook and eAudiobook service OverDrive, to download books to your personal devices and computer. Registration is not required - the library does not supply devices.

Friday, Dec. 27, 2:00 pm,
Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street.

 

Library How-To: Download Magazines
Learn how to use the Library's downloading magazine service, Zinio, to download some of your favorite magazines to your computer or other personal device!
Tuesday, January 7th, 6:30 pm (Main Library)
Tuesday, February 4th, 6:30 pm (Main Library)

Using your iPad
Do you own an iPad and wish you knew more about it?  Looking for tips on what to use it for?  Head to the library for this session on using your iPad.  You must bring your device with you.  The Libray will not supply devices for use.
Thursday, January 9th, 2:30 pm (Main Library)

More Opportunities for Adults
Independent Movie Night for Adults - Thursday, Jan. 2 at 6:00 pm, Rock Island Main Library. Movie is "The Day I Saw Your Heart." In French with English subtitles. 

In 2014, the Friends of the Library Big Book Sale returns to an every other month schedule. The first discount book sale of the year is Thursday, Feb. 6, from 9;00 am to 8:00 pm, at the Rock Island 30/31 Branch Library, 3059 30th Street. 

Can't wait? You don't have to! The book sale room is open during regular branch hours. Stop by and pick up some great deals, anytime you are in the neighborhood.

Looking for something to do? Volunteers wanted! Stop by and talk to a Friends volunteer about helping out.
Begin Here for Fun from the Children's Library
Lego Block Club kicks off 2014 with a 4:00 pm program on Wednesday, Jan. 8 at Main Library; Free building block fun for the kids! Sessions at 30/31 and Southwest Branch follow on the next two Wednesdays. 

2014 also brings a full schedule of children's morning, evening and Saturday storytimes, a new monthly "crafternoon," a Friday movie, and a big Midwinters Knight read party and reading contest. Stay tuned for more details!
Get the Scoop on Hometown Teams

Logo for Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition Service The second Community Meeting for Hometown Teams has been set, and you are invited. The Rock Island Library is seeking volunteers and partners to help implement the Hometown Teams national exhibit, and supporting programs and exhibits of local history, coming

to Rock Island in Sept. 2014.


To get involved, come to the meeting at the Rock Island Main Community Room on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014,  from 2:00 to 3:00 pm, or
call Project Coordinator Lisa Lockheart at 309-732-7303 or email her at the library.

 

Part of the exhibit will involve telling the stories of hometown teams from Rock Island and surrounding Illinois communities through local exhibits and free public programs.

 

Link to full story.
Take an Art Break!
Artist Bryan Cotton's one-man show, runs December 3 
Cityscape by Bryan Cotton through January 3 at the Rock Island Main Library. The 28-year-old Rock Islander specializes in ink and pen creations in architectural abstract illustrations, cityscapes, murals, cartoons, and still life perspectives. He primarily works in ink, but also creates in watercolors, marker, colored pencil and pastels. Stop by to see his work on the 2nd floor anytime during regular library hours.

 

Brainfuse Online Tutoring

Rock Island Library now offers Brainfuse, an online tutoring service that provides learning tools for learners from kindergarten through college, as well as adult learning tools for career, job searching and skill building.

 

The free service requires a Rock Island Library card.

 

To get started, click here!

 

 

Rock Island, Illinois > 309.732.7323 (READ) > www.rockislandlibrary.org Rock Solid, Rock Island.

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