08 Jan 2014

How to Ensure a Successful Business Or Property Sale in 2014

By Ginny Grimsley
Surprise, It's Not Only About The Price!

Corporations are holding record levels of cash, interest rates are low and the housing market is rebounding. The result? Merger and acquisitions professionals are buying more businesses and high-end homes are selling faster -- Silicon Valley had a 26 percent increase in sales of $1.5 million-and-up houses in the first half of last year.

If you're considering selling a business or property in 2014 - while business is good and before mortgage rates climb - keep in mind: Focusing only on the price can short-change you in the long run.

"A lot of sellers are rushing to close the deal because they're worried about what may be around the corner," says attorney John Hartog of Hartog & Baer Trust and Estate Law (www.hartogbaer.com). "My first rule: Sell smart, not fast."

Sales of commercial properties were up 11 percent in the third quarter of last year, notes wealth management advisor Haitham "Hutch" Ashoo, CEO of Pillar Wealth Management (www.pillarwm.com).

"These sales can constitute a significant money event, so you have to consider how they may impact your future lifestyle needs," he says.

Adds CPA Jim Kohles, chairman of RINA accountancy corporation (www.rina.com):

"And you have to factor in how the transaction will affect your tax position. A great sales price doesn't look so good if it costs you more in taxes."

The three offer these tips for a successful business or residential property sale:

  • Know the true value of your business! A surprising number of entrepreneurs have an unrealistic idea of what their business is worth, says attorney Hartog. He tells of a man who owned a large chain of fast-food franchises. "He told everyone he knew the business was worth $150 million. After he died ... the business was sold for $35 million." That resulted in a drawn-out lawsuit by relatives of the man who accused the sellers of under-valuing the company. "Whether you're selling a business or real estate, get it appraised," Hartog advises. "It may sound obvious, but I've seen savvy business owners make big mistakes due to delusions of value."
  • How confident are you that the transaction will help you maintain the lifestyle you want? Before their clients take one step toward moving forward on a significant sale, wealth managers Ashoo and his partner, Chris Snyder, analyze how it might affect them in the future. "This is a must-do step. You need to have confidence that this money event will help you maintain your lifestyle until you're in your 90s," Ashoo says. He and Snyder run the transaction through an  economic simulation factoring in major world and financial events since 1925, then use the information to project its future effect on the client. "If we're not 75- to 90 percent confident that it will help them reach their goals and maintain their lifestyle, we advise the develop a Plan B -- or not sell at all."

 

  • The pre-tax price and the after-tax price must both be part of the negotiations. Getting the highest price for your business won't result in the most net gain if you end up paying a high tax rate on the proceeds, notes accountant Kohles. If you sell the shares in your company, you'll pay a lower tax rate. If you sell the physical plant, you'll pay a higher rate. In the first case the buyer is on the losing end of the tax question; in the second you are. "You have to package the deal so that there are some tax advantages for both of you; this is where having professional help is crucial," he says. If you've taken depreciation on the equipment, you'll pay a higher rate. Sales of some assets, such as patents, are taxed at the lower capital gain rate. Selling your goodwill - elements of the business that relate to the value of your relationships - allows your buyer to write off depreciation.

About John Hartog, Haitham "Hutch" Ashoo  & Jim Kohles: John Hartog is a partner at Hartog & Baer Trust and Estate Law in Orinda, Calif.  He is a certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law, and taxation law. Haitham "Hutch" Ashoo is the CEO of Pillar Wealth Management, LLC, in Walnut Creek, Calif., specializing in client-centered wealth management. Jim Kohles is chairman of the board of RINA accountancy corporation of Walnut Creek, Calif. He is a certified public accountant specializing in business consulting, succession and retirement planning, and insurance. All three advise ultra affluent families.

08 Jan 2014

MALLARDS' HEEMSKERK NAMED OAKLEY CENTRAL HOCKEY LEAGUE GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK

By Brian Lavelle
MOLINE, Ill. (January 7, 2014) - Quad City Mallards goaltender Thomas Heemskerk has been named Oakley Central Hockey League Goaltender of the Week, the Mallards announced today in conjunction with the CHL.

Heemskerk, 23, last week turned aside 60 of the 62 shots he faced while securing a pair of road wins and recording his second shutout of the season.  The Chilliwack, British Columbia native last Monday made 31 saves to backstop the Mallards to a 3-2 win over the Brampton Beast.  Last Saturday, Heemskerk stopped 29 shots in a 5-0 blanking of the St. Charles Chill.  The shutout was Heemskerk's second in his last four games, his second in his last two starts against St. Charles and the second of his career.

The 6' 0", 210-pound Heemskerk is currently riding a four game winning streak during which he has registered a 1.50 goals against average and a .947 save percentage along with two shutouts.

On the season, Heemskerk ranks second in the CHL in goals against average (2.50), is tied for second in shutouts (2), ranks fourth in save percentage (.919) and ranks seventh in wins (9).  He has suffered just a single regulation loss all season, going 9-1-3 over 14 games.  Heemskerk has also been called up to the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild twice this season. 

Heemskerk is the second Mallard goaltender to earn league wide honors in as many weeks.  Fellow netminder Ty Rimmer last week was named CHL Rookie of the Month for December.

Heemskerk joined the Mallards after going 14-17-3 with a 3.10 goals against average and a .906 save percentage in 38 games with the ECHL's San Francisco Bulls last season. Heemskirk also played in a pair of games for the Worcester Sharks of the AHL last year.Heemskerk gave up just two goals while making 27 saves to post a 1.79 goals against average and a .931 save percentage during that AHL stint.

Heemskerk began his professional career in 2011-12 with the ECHL's Stockton Thunder, for whom he turned in a record of 13-12-0 along with a 3.27 goals against average and a .893 save percentage in 25 games. He also saw AHL action for Worcester as a rookie, taking the ice in four games and registering a 2.14 goals against average and a .921 save percentage.

Heemskerk turned pro after four years in the major junior Western Hockey League. In his final WHL campaign, he finished second in the league in minutes (3,841), third in saves (2041) and fifth in wins (36) while recording a 2.94 goals against average, a .908 save percentage and a pair of shutouts in 65 games with the Moose Jaw Warriors.

The 2010-11 season was the second straight campaign during which Heemskerk landed among the league leaders. In 2009-10, while tending goal for the Everett Silvertips, he topped the Western League in save percentage (.927), finished third in goals against average (2.34) and was tied for seventh in shutouts (4) while going 24-12-4 in 42 games. Heemskerk's efforts helped the Silvertips earn a share of the United States Division title. Heemskerk joined Everett midway through the 2008-09 season after spending his first year and a half in the WHL with the Kootenay Ice.

The Mallards return to action on home ice tomorrow night at 7:05 p.m. against the Brampton Beast.  That game is the Mallards' first Winning Wednesday presented by T.G.I. Friday's.  If the Mallards win a Wednesday night home game all in attendance win free tickets for the next Wednesday game.  In addition, $2 beer and hot dogs will be available during Wednesday night tilts.  After each Wednesday night game, fans can join the Mallards for a postgame party at T.G.I. Friday's next to the iWireless Center.

Tickets for tomorrow night's game and all Mallards regular season home games can be purchased at the iWireless Center ticket office, Ticketmaster outlets, through ticketmaster.com or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000.  The ticket office is open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on game days from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the second period.

08 Jan 2014

MALLARDS, GENESIS TEAM UP FOR GAME WORN JERSEY AUCTION SATURDAY NIGHT

By Brian Lavelle

Auction Benefits Genesis Health Services Foundation's Flu-Free QC Program

Free Mallards Youth Replica Jerseys for First 1,000 Fans 12 and Under

Courtesy of Scott County Family Y and Two Rivers YMCA


MOLINE, Ill. (January 7, 2014) - The Quad City Mallards will wear special edition affiliate jerseys when they take on the Arizona Sundogs Saturday night at 7:05 p.m. at the i wireless Center and those jerseys will go up for bid in a live auction immediately following the game to benefit the Genesis Health Services Foundation's Flu-Free QC program. 

The Mallards, who are in their first season as an affiliate of the National Hockey League's Minnesota Wild and the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild, Saturday night will don cream-colored affiliate jerseys bearing "Quad City Mallards" across the chest in Mallard green script and the team's secondary duck logo on the shoulders.

"The money raised at this annual auction is used to provide essential health care services to our neighbors throughout the QCA.  On behalf of that grateful community, I thank the Mallards for their on-going commitment to the health and well-being of their fans and friends," said Ken Croken, vice president of corporate communications and marketing, Genesis Health System.

Last season, the Mallards teamed with Genesis for a pair of jersey auctions that raised better than $46,000 for both the Genesis Flu-Free QC campaign and for Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation.  Over the past 19 years, Mallards jersey auctions have raised over $700,000 to benefit Genesis Health System Charities.

"The generosity and community-mindedness of Mallards fans is something that has impressed me hugely since I arrived here a year ago," said Mallards president Bob McNamara.  "Their willingness to do so much for a cause like the Genesis Health Services Foundation that does such valuable work and provides so many important services for this community is something we are deeply thankful for."

Saturday's event is the first of the Mallards' two Genesis jersey auctions this season.  Another one-of-a-kind set of game worn jerseys be auctioned off following the Mallards' Saturday, March 8 game against Arizona.

This Saturday evening will also see the first 1,000 fans ages 12 and under through the doors at the iWireless Center receive free Mallards youth replica jerseys courtesy of Scott County Family Y and Two Rivers YMCA.

Tickets for Saturday night's game can be purchased at the iWireless Center ticket office, Ticketmaster outlets, through ticketmaster.com or through Ticketmaster charge-by-phone toll free at 1-800-745-3000. The ticket office is open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and on game days from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the second period.

About Genesis Health System

Genesis Health System, its affiliates and partners offer a full continuum of health care services.  Genesis Health System's affiliates include : acute and tertiary hospital care at Genesis Medical Center, Davenport and DeWitt, Iowa and Genesis Medical Center, Silvis and Aledo in Illinois; home health and hospice services through Genesis VNA and Hospice; Genesis Workplace Services, including occupational health, employee assistance and wellness services for employers and their employees; the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House; senior living facilities offering rehabilitation and long-term care; Genesis Health Group, with more than 170 primary care physicians and specialists; a Family Practice Residency program; Genesis Psychology Associates; three Convenient Care clinics; and Genesis Home Medical Equipment.  Partners include the Genesis Medical Park, Crow Valley, Genesis Imaging Centers and Spring Street Surgical Center, Davenport. Genesis Health System serves a 10-county area of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois.  Genesis also manages Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. For more information, visit www.genesishealth.com.

About the Quad City Mallards
A proud affiliate of the National Hockey League's Minnesota Wild and the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild, the Quad City Mallards in the midst of their seventeenth season and their fourth in the Central Hockey League.  One of the winningest teams in all of minor league hockey, the Mallards competed in the United Hockey League from 1995 through 2007 and in the International Hockey League in 2009-10.  The Mallards' proud history has seen them capture the UHL's Colonial Cup Championship three times (1997, 1998, 2001) and secure that league's Tarry Cup four times (1998, 2000, 2001, 2002) for the best overall regular season record.  In 2001, the Mallards made professional hockey history, recording their sixth consecutive season with 50 or more wins, a feat that has yet to be matched.  The i wireless Center provides a unique environment for hockey and features one-of-a-kind seating areas such as the Nest for groups and functions and the exclusive Drake Club.  For more information on the Quad City Mallards or for Mallards tickets go to www.myqcmallards.com.  Fans can also follow the Mallards via Twitter at twitter.com/myqcmallards and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/quadcitymallards.

-### Quad City Mallards ### -

08 Jan 2014

Governor Quinn Takes Bill Action **Tuesday, January 7, 2014**

By William Palmisano

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

Bill No.: HB 1002

An Act Concerning: Education

Allows Lebanon Community Unit School District 9 to issue bonds.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediately

Bill No.: HB 2618

An Act Concerning: Regulation

Amends the Illinois Insurance Code regarding mine subsidence coverage.

Action: Vetoed

 

Bill No.: SB 116

An Act Concerning: Government

Provides that if specific property is no longer used for charitable, educational or public purposes, the title shall revert to the State.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediately

 

Bill No.: SB 492

An Act Concerning: Local government

Provides that any actions taken on design-bid contracts and related procurements entered into or commenced over a specific period are covered under a five year sunset extension.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediately

 

Bill No.: SB 853

An Act Concerning: Safety

Establishes a license for youth to hunt while supervised by a parent, grandparent or guardian who has a valid hunting license.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediately

 

Bill No.: SB 1007

An Act Concerning: Criminal law

Clarifies that defendants charged with prostitution are eligible for specialized services in mental health courts.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediately

 

Bill No.: SB 1523

An Act Concerning: Public employee benefits

Reforms the Chicago Park District Pension Fund.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: June 1, 2014. Many of the provisions take effect Jan. 1, 2015.

 

Bill No.: SB 1595

An Act Concerning: Finance

Allows the Chester Community Unit School District to access energy efficiency grants.

Action: Signed

Effective Date: Immediately

 

###
08 Jan 2014

Real Deal Chicago Blues with John Primer at The Muddy Waters, Friday, January 31 - 9:00 p.m.

By Kristy

John Primer, backed by his incredible Chicago based band, will be delivering real blues at The Muddy Waters, 1708 State Street, Bettendorf, Iowa on Friday, January 31, 2014. The show starts at 9:00 p.m., and admission is $10 per person, or $5 if you are a Mississippi Valley Blues Society Member.

John Primer is one of the driving forces in helping to keep alive the more traditional Chicago blues sound. Born in 1945 in Camden Mississippi John moved to Chicago in the early 60's landed a gig playing lead guitar with the likes of Junior Wells, Louis Myers, Jimmy Johnson, Lonnie Brooks, Paul Butterfield, Johnny Winter, Bonnie Raitt and many others. From there he joined Willie Dixon's band, The Chicago Blues All Stars in 1979.

Six months later he was asked to join Muddy Water's band after being referred by Mojo Buford. This turned out to be Muddy's last band (with Lovie Lee on piano) and it was a shock to Primer when Muddy died. Primer said, "Muddy was a great guy and I was ready to play with him as long as he wanted me to."

After this turn in Primer's life road, John joined forces with West Side bluesman Magic Slim, and together they heated up stages all over the world for over 13 years. Primer really enjoyed all those years saying, "We were like a family, like brothers." Finally, in 1996 with the encouragement of Maurice Holt, John set out on his own and in 2008 he produced with his own label Blues House Production and recorded a CD where one could find his entire musical career "Call Me John Primer".

This show is being presented by The Muddy Waters, and in support of keeping the blues alive, there will be an admission discount given to all Mississippi Valley Blues Society members. For more information check the website for The Muddy Waters at: www.themuddywaters.com; or email: info@muddys.info.

# # #
08 Jan 2014

Iowa Supreme Court Seeks Public Comment

By Iowa Judicial Branch

This section of the site contains orders of statewide interest recently issued by the Iowa Supreme Court. Orders will be posted in this section for one year from the date they are first posted.

Links on this page go to files that may be unusable if you do not have the proper programs installed on your computer. Visit the Site Tools and Accessibility page for any plug-ins or programs your may need.
Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Division III of the Iowa Court Rules (January 7, 2014)

Order (124 kb)


Proposed Chapter 41 amendments (395 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to the Student Practice Rule (January 7, 2014)

Order (100 kb)


Proposed amendments, Rule 31.15 (181 kb)



In the Matter of Extending the Deadline for Public Comment on Proposed Amendments to Iowa Discovery Rules and Expedited Civil Action Rule (Dec. 20, 2013)

Order (31 kb)



In the Matter of Temporary Early Closures of Clerk of Iowa Supreme Court (December 5, 2013)

Order (363 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Division III of the Court Rules Regarding the Client Security Trust Fund (November 26, 2013)

Order (160 kb)


Office of Professional Regulation Memorandum (118 kb)


Chapter 39 and 40 (141 kb)



Request for public comment regarding proposed amendments to Iowa discovery rules and a proposed expedited civil action rule (November 1, 2013)

Order (1614 kb)


Proposed Discovery Amendments (410 kb)


Proposed Expedited Civil Action Rule (200 kb)



Request for comments regarding proposed amendments to the Rules for Expanded Media Coverage (October 28, 2013)

Chapter 25 of the Iowa Court Rules

Order (112 kb)


Chapter 25 (767 kb)


Final Report (130 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed Amendments to the Rules for Expanded Media Coverage (542 kb)



In the Matter of the New Rule of Juvenile Procedure (October 16, 2013)

Juvenile Procedure 8.36

Order (705 kb)


Rule 8.36 (256 kb)


Standards of Practice (298 kb)



No. 11-0492 (August 28, 2013)

State of Iowa vs. Jason Jon Means

Order (63 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to Division III of the Iowa Court Rules (August 5, 2013)

Order (72 kb)


Chapter 39 (130 kb)


Chapter 40 (22 kb)


Office of Professional Regulation memo (823 kb)



Video of Public Hearing (July 9, 2013)

A public hearing on the proposed new rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 was held July 9, 2013, with oral presentations from individuals expressing different viewpoints on the proposed rule.
Video, Part 1
Video, Part 2





Schedule for Public Hearing on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (June 20, 2013)

Public hearing will begin at 9 a.m., Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Order (64 kb)



No. 11-0553 (June 7, 2013)

St. John's Full Gospel Baptist Church vs. Tax 207 and Polk County Treasurer

Order (34 kb)



In the Matter of the Appointment of an Independent Special Counsel (May 10, 2013)

Order (209 kb)



No. 11-2019 (May 10, 2013)

Residents of Elsie Mason Manor & Ligutti Tower, Katherine Daniel, et al., vs. First Baptist Housing Foundation and American Baptist Homes of the Midwest

Order (64 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Amendments to the Rules Governing Court Interpreters (March 18, 2013)

Order (765 kb)


Chapter 47 (307 kb)


Chapter 48 (224 kb)



Setting Public Hearing and Reopening Comment Period on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (March 18, 2013)

Order (724 kb)


Proposed New Rule 8.36 (95 kb)


Iowa Standards of Practice for Attorneys Representing Parents in Juvenile Court (195 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (June 3, 2013) (477 kb)



In the Matter of Appointment of Judges to the Iowa Business Specialty Court Pilot Project (March 4, 2013)

Order (46 kb)



In the Matter of Court Forms for Adult and Minor Child Petitions for Change of Name (February 14, 2013)

Name change forms pdf

Supervisory order and name change forms (681 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Recommendations of the Iowa Supreme Court 2012 Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (January 25, 2013

Order (89 kb)


Filed with the clerk of the Iowa Supreme Court office on January 25, 2013

Final Report of Review Committee (3592 kb)



In the Matter of Establishment of the Iowa Business Specialty Court Pilot Project (December 21, 2012)

Supervisory Order and Memorandum of Operation (345 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Regulating the Practice of Law (December 10, 2012)

The Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice has signed an order amending various rules of Division III (Professional Regulation) of the Iowa Court Rules. With two exceptions noted in the order, these amendments are effective immediately. Also accompanying the order is a summary of the amendments.

Order (27 kb)


Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Regulating the Practice of Law (254 kb)


Comments to Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Regulating the Practice of Law (177 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Committee on Expanded Media Coverage (December 7, 2012)

Order (380 kb)



Corrected Expanded Media Coverage Committee Order

Nunc Pro Tunc (47 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Emeritus Pro Bono Practice Rule (December 6, 2012).

Order (309 kb)



Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed rules governing the filing of electronic documents in the Iowa Appellate Courts (December 6, 2012).

Order (546 kb)



Request for public comment regarding proposed collection activities (October 25, 2012)

Order (84 kb)


Proposed new Chapter 26 (288 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed Rules for Collection Activities of the Iowa Courts (2951 kb)


Committee Response to Public Comments (31 kb)



In the Matter of the Electronic Document Management System and Standard eForms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (October 25, 2012)

Supervisory Order (72 kb)


http://www.iowacourts.gov/eFiling/Overview/index.asp

Small Claims eForms (591 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Advisory Committee Concerning Certain Civil Justice Reform Task Force Recommendations (October 10, 2012)

Order (78 kb)



Request for public comment regarding a proposed new rule of juvenile procedure 8.36 (August 30, 2012)

Order (140 kb)


New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (228 kb)


Iowa Standards of Practice for Attorneys Representing Parents in Juvenile Court (1818 kb)


Public Comments on Proposed New Rule of Juvenile Procedure 8.36 (Oct. 31, 2012) (29813 kb)


Additional comment (November 1, 2012) (792 kb)



Request for public comment regarding amendments to Professional Regulation of the Iowa Court Rules (August 27, 2012)

Order (420 kb)


Proposed amendments to Professional Regulation (142 kb)



Request for public comment regarding amendments to Chapters 6 and 21 of the Iowa Court Rules (August 27, 2012)

Order (496 kb)


Proposed amendments to Chapters 6 and 21 (107 kb)



Request for Comments to Proposed New Rule of Civil Procedure 1.1702 (August 3, 2012)

Order (407 kb)


Proposed New Rule (88 kb)



In the Matter of Rules for Involuntary Commitments or Treatment of Persons with Substance-Related Disorders (July 5, 2012)

Supervisory Order and Chapter 13 (516 kb)



In the Matter of Mileage Reimbursement (June 29, 2012)

Supervisory Order (32 kb)



In the Matter of EDMS and Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims (June 29, 2012)

Supervisory Order (991 kb)



In the Matter of Forms for Court Orders Issued in Small Claims Court (June 28, 2012)

Supervisory Order and Forms for Court Orders (3515 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the 2012 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (June 11, 2012)

Nunc Pro Tunc (103 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the 2012 Iowa Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (June 11, 2012)

Order (533 kb)



In the Matter of the Notice on Court-Generated Documents in Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (May 1, 2012)

Supervisory Order (56 kb)



In the Matter of Revision of Interim Rules 16.306(5) and (6) Relating to Signatures in the Electronic Document Management System (April 24, 2012)

Supervisory Order (82 kb)


Revised 16.306(5) and (6) (36 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to lawyer advertising rules (April 20, 2012)

Order (386 kb)


Proposed amendments (12844 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rule 31.16 Registration of House Counsel (March 21, 2012)

Order (77 kb)


Proposed New Rule (304 kb)



In the Matter of Interim Rules to Govern the use of the Electronic Document Management System (March 1, 2012)

The Iowa Supreme Court amends the interim rules of Chapter 16 of the Iowa Court Rules governing EDMS

Order (77 kb)


Chapter 16 interim rules (349 kb)


Summary (43 kb)


General Commentary (114 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rule of Appellate Procedure (February 10, 2012)

Order (244 kb)


Proposed New Rule (186 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rules of Civil Procedure (December 2, 2011)

Order (575 kb)


Proposed New Rule (479 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to Rules of Juvenile Procedures (November 23, 2011)

Order (103 kb)


Juvenile amendments (11 kb)



Request for comments to proposed amendments to rules regulating the practice of law (November 17, 2011)

Order (429 kb)


Summary (96 kb)


Proposed amendments (200 kb)



In the Matter of Request for Public Comment Regarding Proposed Small Claims Pleadings Forms (October 7, 2011)

Order (550 kb)


Small Claims Forms (944 kb)



In the Matter of Formation of the Small Claims Forms Advisory Committee (May 18, 2011)

Order (619 kb)



In the Matter of the Supreme Court Committee to Study Lawyer Advertising Rules (April 15, 2011)

Order (466 kb)



In the Matter of Rescission of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (April 6, 2011)

Supervisory Order (206 kb)



In the Matter of Temporary Rules Governing the Electronic Document Management System and Use of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (April 4, 2011)

Temporary rules governing EDMS to exempt electronic filers in Small Claims actions until further notice of this court

Supervisory Order (364 kb)



In the Matter of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (April 1, 2011)

The March 28, 2011, order contained typographical errors in the numbering sequence of the new and amended Small Claims forms compared to the prior forms being replaced. The forms themselves were correctly numbered.

Amended Order (427 kb)



In the Matter of Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions (March 28, 2011)

The Court rescinds Chapter 3 of the Iowa Court Rules, Standard Forms of Pleadings for Small Claims Actions, in its entirety. The court approves and adopts the revised Chapter 3 of the Iowa Court Rules attached to this Order.
Effective April 4, 2011

Order (6666 kb)


Standard Forms (pdf) (774 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Jefferson and Louisa County Clerk of Court Offices (March 9, 2011)

Effective immediately

Nunc Pro Tunc (170 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Jefferson and Louisa County Clerk of Court Offices (March 9, 2011)

Effective immediately.

Supervisory Order (181 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Chapter 4; Form 4.11 (February 2, 2011)

Effective immediately.

Order and Form 4.11 (895 kb)



In the Matter of Amendments to Iowa Court Rules Chapter 4: Forms 4.1, 4.2, 4.11, and 4.15 (December 27, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (3402 kb)



In the Matter of the Appointment of the EMC Media Coordinator for Region 3

Effective December 17, 2010.

Order (192 kb)



Proposed Adoption of 2005 Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators (December 7, 2010)

Deadline for comments is March 7, 2011

Order (2271 kb)


Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators (166 kb)


Chapter 11 Study Group (2195 kb)



In the Matter of the Retention of a Private Court Reporter in a Civil Case: Amendment to January 6, 2010 Order (November 24, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (835 kb)



In the Matter of Temporary Rules to Govern the Use of the Electronic Document Management System Plymouth County and Story County (November 4, 2010)

Supervisory Order (538 kb)


Chapter 16 - Rules Pertaining to the Use of the Electronic Document Management System (12070 kb)


Protected Information Disclosure (424 kb)


Small Claims Original Notice and Petition (3124 kb)


Notice of Transcript Redaction (445 kb)


General Commentary on Electronic Filing Rules (118 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Chickasaw and Howard County Clerk of Court Offices (October 19, 2010)

Effective October 25, 2010

Supervisory Order (207 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Greene County Clerk of Court Office (September 29, 2010)

Effective October 12, 2010

Supervisory Order (185 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Boone County Clerk of Court Office (September 29, 2010)

Effective October 5, 2010

Supervisory Order (177 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Adams, Ringgold and Taylor County Clerk of Court offices (September 29, 2010)

Effective October 4, 2010

Supervisory Order (189 kb)



In the Matter of the Judicial Council Advisory Committee on Fine Collection Procedures, Practices and Rules (September 24, 2010)

Effective immediately

Order (928 kb)



In the Matter of the Public Hours of the Office of the Clerk of the Appellate Courts (September 15, 2010)

Effective September 20, 2010

Supervisory Order (465 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Jones County Clerk of Court Office (August 18, 2010)

Effective August 30, 2010

Supervisory Order (167 kb)



In the Matter of the Appointment of Members to Serve on the Civil Justice Reform Task Force (August 6, 2010)

Supervisory Order (106 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Worth County Clerk of Court Office (August 4, 2010)

Effective September 10, 2010

Supervisory Order (181 kb)



In the Matter of Expanded Media Coverage of the Courts (July 21, 2010)

The supreme court has reorganized the jurisdiction of media coordinators for Jackson County.
Effective August 1, 2010

Order (171 kb)



In the Matter of Interim Procedures Governing the Collection of Court Fines and Fees (July 2, 2010)

Upon recommendation of the Judicial Council, the supreme court adopts interim provisions that will govern installment payment plans and other fine collection activities of the judicial branch until the adoption of permanent rules.
Effective July 12, 2010

Supervisory Order (1250 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Floyd County Clerk of Court Office (May 13, 2010)

Effective May 20, 2010

Supervisory Order (174 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Davis County Clerk of Court Office (May 4, 2010)

Effective May 10, 2010

Supervisory Order (176 kb)



In the Matter of Adoption of EDMS Rules for Pilot Project in Plymouth County (April 21, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (581 kb)


Chapter 16 - Rules Pertaining to the Use of the Electronic Document Management System (12017 kb)


Protected Information Disclosure (520 kb)


Small Claims Original Notice and Petition (2292 kb)


General Commentary on Electronic Filing Rules (2274 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of the Guthrie County Clerk of Court Office (April 13, 2010)

Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (173 kb)



In the Matter of the Business Hours of the Fremont County Clerk of Court Office (April 6, 2010)

Effective April 5, 2010

Supervisory Order (167 kb)



In the Matter of Appointment to the Task Force for Civil Justice Reform (March 23, 2010)

Effective immediately

Order (123 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (March 19, 2010)

Fremont county
Effective April 5, 2010

Supervisory Order (186 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (February 11, 2010)

Jefferson county
effective February 12, 2010

Supervisory Order (180 kb)



In the Matter of Prioritization of Cases and Duties (February 4, 2010)

Amendment to Order of December 1, 2009
Effective immediately

Supervisory Order (323 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (January 28, 2010)

Fifth District
effective February 1, 2010

Supervisory Order (252 kb)



In the Matter of Changes to the Business Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (January 26, 2010)

First, Second and Sixth districts
effective February 1, 2010

Supervisory Order (286 kb)



Proposed Revised Iowa Code of Judicial Conduct (January 19, 2010)

Chapter 51
Deadline for comments is March 19, 2010.

Order and Proposed Code (581 kb)



In the Matter of Private Retention of Court Reporters in Civil Cases (January 6, 2010)

Supervisory order (500 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Task Force for Civil Justice Reform (December 18, 2009)

Order (655 kb)



In the Matter of Court Closure Days and Public Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (December 2, 2009)

Supervisory Order (63 kb)



In the Matter of Prioritization of Cases and Duties (December 1, 2009)

Supervisory Order (1318 kb)



In the Matter of the Public Hours of Clerk of Court Offices (November 17, 2009)

Supervisory Order (2646 kb)



In the Matter of Actions Taken to Reduce Judicial Branch Operating Expenses (November 12, 2009)

Supervisory Order (1443 kb)



In The Matter of Court Closure and Unpaid Leave Days (November 10, 2009)

Supervisory Order (497 kb)



In the Matter of Actions Taken to Reduce Judicial Branch Operating Expenses for Fiscal Year 2010 (June 25, 2009)

Supervisory Order (162 kb)



In the Matter of Court Closure Days and Reduced Public Hours (May 29, 2009)

Supervisory Order (288 kb)



In the Matter of Appointments to the Digital Audio Recording Technology Committee of the Judicial Council (May 7, 2009)

Order (380 kb)



In the Matter of Court Closure and Unpaid Leave Days: May 8 (May 5, 2009)

Supervisory Order (452 kb)



In the Matter of Mileage Reimbursement (March 31, 2009)

Supervisory Order (315 kb)



Actions Concerning Judicial Operations (March 13, 2009)

Supervisory Order (228 kb)



Action Taken to Reduce Operating Expenses (February 27, 2009)

Supervisory Order (186 kb)



Hearing on Proposed Rules (February 24, 2009)

A hearing is scheduled on Thursday, March 5, 2009, regarding minutes of evidence.

Order Setting Hearing Schedule (Feb. 24, 2009) (480 kb)


Order Setting Amended Hearing Schedule (March 2, 2009) (477 kb)


Order (Feb. 13, 2009) (749 kb)



Actions Taken to Reduce Judicial Branch Operating Expenses (February 2, 2009)

Supervisory Order (783 kb)



Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Criminal Procedure (December 2, 2008)

Information about witnesses
Deadline for comments is January 2, 2009

Chapter 2, Rule 2.4 and 2.5 (589 kb)



Proposed Amendments to Iowa Court Rules (November 12, 2008)

Licensing and Practice of Foreign Legal Consultants
Deadline for comments is December 12, 2008

Chapter 31, Rule 31.14 and 31.18 (5008 kb)



In the Matter of Iowa Rule of Civil Procedure 1.422 (September 23, 2008)

Supervisory Order (150 kb)



Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Criminal Procedure (June 23, 2008)

Information about witnesses
Deadline for comments is July 23, 2008

Chapter 2, Rule 2.4 and 2.5 (96 kb)


Order (355 kb)



Final Report of the Child Support Guidelines Review Committee

Final Report of the Child Support Guidelines Review Committee (378 kb)


Proposed Amendments to Chapter 9 (348 kb)


Rule 9.27, Forms 1 and 2 (418 kb)



Revisions to Electronic Document Management System Proposed Rules (June 10, 2008)

Public Notice (47 kb)


General commentary (71 kb)


Chapter 16--Pertaining to the use of EDMS (258 kb)



Proposed Amendments to Rules of Appellate Procedure and Rules of Civil Procedure Concerning Certiorari (June 6, 2008)

Deadline for comments is August 6, 2008

Order (81 kb)


Proposed Amendments to Rules of Appellate Procedure (851 kb)


Summary of Key Changes (238 kb)


Proposed Amendments to Rules of Civil Procedure (113 kb)



Appointments to the Supreme Court Limited Jurisdiction Task Force (January 14, 2008)

Appointment Order (205 kb)


Resolution in Support of the Pew Commission (September 10, 2007) (86 kb)



Filing by facsimile transmission (August 6, 2007)

Order granting filing by facsimile transmission of certain documents in chapters 125 and 229 commitment proceedings
Effective immediately

Order (66 kb)



Uniform Bond Schedule (August 2, 2007)

Order amending uniform bond schedule

Order and bond schedule (97 kb)



Instructions to Compensation Commissioners from the Chief Justice (January 12, 2007)

Instructions (208 kb)
07 Jan 2014

Winter Programs at Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

By Adam Prato

WEST BRANCH, IOWA– Herbert Hoover National Historic Site invites visitors to attend free winter ranger programs in 2014.

Join a park ranger at 10 a.m. on January 18 for a one-hour "Snowshoe Through the Park". The park has some snowshoes to lend. Call (319) 643-2541 to reserve a pair. The hike is suitable for ages 5 and up, will begin at Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, and will cover less than one mile through the tallgrass prairie. Participants must have sturdy boots, and should dress appropriately for the weather and bring water.

Dr. Richard Baker continues his lecture series "Geology of the National Parks", with presentations focusing on Everglades (January 15) and Arches and Canyonlands (February 19). The lectures begin at the visitor center of Herbert Hoover National Historic Site at 7 p.m. and last about one hour.

President's Day weekend will be a good opportunity to learn more about our 31st President. On Saturday, February 15 a park ranger discusses "Herbert Hoover's National Parks": special places like Arches, Isle Royale, George Washington Birthplace, Sunset Crater Volcano, and other national parks and monuments preserved by Herbert Hoover's administration. The presentation begins at 2 p.m. in the visitor center.

Following "Herbert Hoover's National Parks" on February 15 will be the grand opening of the historic site's new permanent exhibits from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The new exhibits the stories of President Hoover's childhood in West Branch and how he later helped develop this park which commemorates his life. Refreshments will be offered.

On Saturday, March 29 a park ranger will examine "The Undying Legacy of President Hoover": the many places, events, and objects named in his honor. Archival photos and documents will illustrate his range of influence and the variety of ways he legacy carries on today. Audience members will be invited to share their own remembrances of Herbert Hoover during the program. Meet at the visitor center at 2 p.m.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum are in West Branch, Iowa at exit 254 off I-80. Both are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. For more information go online at www.nps.gov/heho or call (319) 643-2541.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

110 Parkside Drive

PO Box 607

West Branch, Iowa 52358

 

319 643-2541 phone

319 643-7864 fax

www.nps.gov/heho


Twitter: @HooverNPS

Facebook: HerbertHooverNHS

07 Jan 2014

Patilyn Lowery of Bettendorf Studies Abroad at University of Evansville's British Campus

By Office of University Relations

EVANSVILLE, IN (01/07/2014)(readMedia)-- University of Evansville student Patilyn Lowery of Bettendorf, IA, will spend the Spring 2014 semester studying abroad at Harlaxton College, UE's British campus near Grantham, England.

Lowery, who is majoring in Art and Associated Studies, is among 172 students who begin classes Monday, January 13 at Harlaxton, housed in a 120-room Victorian manor in the East Midlands countryside.

"For more than 40 years, studying at Harlaxton College has been a definitive part of the University of Evansville experience. Where else can students live and study in a grand manor house, travel throughout the United Kingdom and Europe on weekends, and form lasting ties with local residents?" said Earl Kirk, UE director of study abroad. "We're thrilled to provide this transformational educational experience for students such as Patilyn Lowery, and we wish all of the Spring 2014 Harlaxton students a semester of learning, discovery, and growth."

The Harlaxton curriculum features a core course, The British Experience, which offers an interdisciplinary introduction to British life and culture. Literature, art history, economics, history, and political science are part of the course, which combines lectures, seminars, and field trips to locations such as Lincoln and London. In addition to The British Experience, students enroll in a range of classes in the liberal arts and pre-professional studies. Harlaxton College's British faculty is supplemented by visiting faculty members from American institutions.

Optional weekend trips to destinations such as London, Paris, Ireland, Wales, and the Lake District in northern England provide students with opportunities to engage the culture in Britain and beyond. While at Harlaxton, students may participate in the popular Meet-a-Family program, athletics, and other activities.

The University of Evansville is a private, liberal arts-based university with a full-time undergraduate enrollment of approximately 2,400. UE's diverse student body represents 42 states and 46 countries. U.S. News & World Report recognizes UE as a top 10 master's-granting university in the Midwest, and third in the region for "Great Schools, Great Prices." For more information, please visit http://www.evansville.edu.

07 Jan 2014

Red Kettle Campaign Extended in Hopes of Nearing Goal

By Holly Nomura

The Salvation Army 2013 Red Kettle Campaign Update

Quad Cities Families Could Suffer

Quad Cities, USA: January 7, 2014 - The Salvation Army of the Quad Cities' update on the Red Kettle Campaign is not good. The goal of $750,000 is further away than in years' past. At this time in 2012, the donations totaled $731,000. But in 2013, the total is $658,000.

Major Gary Felton, Quad Cities Coordinator for The Salvation Army, states, "Our goal of $750,000 to keep our programs strong is still a long way away. Therefore, we will continue the campaign an extra two weeks, until January 31, 2014, and plead with the community to dig just a little deeper."

The campaign's kettle totals were especially affected by the 6 less days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The bell ringers usually generate close to $400,000, but this year The Salvation Army collected $340,000.

He adds, "These donations allow us to do our work all year round. When people find themselves in trouble, they turn to The Salvation Army. It is part of our society and has been for over 100 years. The monies collected provide shelter, food and other basic needs to families and individuals in crisis. Our services do so much more, though, as we help people see clearly to solve their own problems. We try not to think about falling short of the goal - we simply cannot fall short - too many people depend on us."

The Salvation Army implores the community to consider a gift during this long month of January.

There are three ways you can give.

  1. Mail a check to: The Salvation Army, 301 W. 6th Street, Davenport, IA 52803

  2. Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY to make a gift by credit card

  3. Go to www.salvationarmyqc.org and make a gift through the Army's central website.

07 Jan 2014

How to Solve the Education Crisis - It's all about who you elect

By Rick Martin

Strong education leaders needed in 2014 elections

By Jeanne Allen & Kara Kerwin

Thanks to assessments of educational progress, we know where our children stand compared to other communities, states, and even nations. Now that the holidays are behind us, it's time to take stock of how we are doing, and set resolutions for the New Year.

According to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), U.S. students are lagging behind. 2012 results show the U.S. is on a rapid decline, ranking 36th in math, 24th in reading, and 28th in science. On the Nation's Report Card (NAEP), only 34% of 8th graders are proficient in reading and math.

Where have we gone wrong? Quite simply, we've elected the wrong people.

In response to children demonstrating less proficiency, the Governors of the 1980s started a movement that reduced federal meddling in state policy and united both parties over issues of choice and accountability. Then-Governors Lamar Alexander of Tennessee and Bill Clinton of Arkansas embraced transformative changes, coalesced other state leaders into an outspoken force, and brought their efforts to national prominence at a groundbreaking policy-making summit in Charlottesville, VA.  Governor Tommy Thompson partnered with Democratic and African-American lawmaker Polly Williams to enact the nation's first voucher program for the neediest children.

Bold leadership in the 1990s saw then-Michigan Governor John Engler buck his own party to equalize school funding, permit parent choices, and enact a charter school law that remains a national model today. Standards and accountability were heresy when Virginia Governor George Allen decided his state needed uniform measures to elevate outcomes. Pennsylvania's Tom Ridge created a tax credit program to fund school choice scholarships and secured a hard-fought charter school law. And Jeb Bush of Florida oversaw some of the deepest education policy changes the nation has ever seen.

That fervor ignited a movement of educators, parents, and community leaders who started schools, turned around existing ones, became legislators, and created innovations in learning and school delivery, including digital learning. What was once a fast and furious run for school reform from the ground up has come to a steady crawl, incapable of reversing educational decline.

When governors are strong, they counter special interests - teachers unions, school boards associations, and the like - that inhibit progress. When governors are weak, policies emanate from "above" to supplant state programs. Apathetic or timid governors wait for bills to reach their desks, allow special interests to organize, and govern by favorability ratings. The result is a lack of commitment to executing much needed changes.

For example, charter schools are known to be hotbeds of innovation or providers of quality education. Despite numerous studies attesting to their progress in closing the achievement gap, charter schools are still expanding in low numbers in some states, and exist with policies that hamstring those who wish to open them in others. It sounds dramatic that 42 states and D.C. have charter laws, but only half that number have any vibrant charter environment that can help a small number of students. State leaders are key to creating more options, yet laws that need to be improved are compromised from the first discussions.

Kentucky Gov. Steve Bashear recently remarked that his state didn't need charter schools because the education system was improving, despite evidence to the contrary. He was confusing activity and effort with results, a common problem among today's leaders.

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett once declared education a top priority but has achieved little reform despite his party's full control of the state legislature. Even with Chris Christie, New Jersey moved forward in requiring teachers be evaluated as a condition of employment, yet the final compromise with unions resulted in more ways to skirt the system.

Some state officials show promise of becoming tomorrow's reform leaders. Wisconsin's Scott Walker looked unions in the eye and didn't blink. Louisiana's Bobby Jindal has set records for positive education reform lawmaking in a state where a devastating storm served as a catalyst for a new public education landscape. Both have state legislatures excited to join them in fighting the status quo.

Make no mistake - the U.S. education system remains in crisis and the achievement gap between poor and minority students and the rest of society remains wide. Most people are aware that the solution is not more money or superficial changes. The key to solving the crisis is electing governors who understand that they have the power to change a system, and holding them accountable to do so. With 36 gubernatorial elections underway in 2014, we should all resolve to make education our top priority when we take to the polls in November.

###

Jeanne Allen founded the Center for Education Reform (CER) in 1993. Today she serves as senior fellow and president-emeritus. She is President of The Allen Company and currently writes and speaks regularly all over the country on education and cultural issues.

Kara Kerwin is Allen's successor as president. CER, based in the Washington, DC metro-area, is the leading national voice and advocate for lasting, substantive and structural education reform in the U.S. For more information or to join CER and its thousands of members, visit our website at www.edreform.com.

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