(DES MOINES) - Gov. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Reynolds today launched the second Governor's Bullying Prevention Summit, where the focus this year is on practical next steps, and how students and adults can make a difference.

Approximately 1,100 Iowans are attending the summit, which is being held at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines. The 2012 Governor's Bullying Prevention Summit also drew about 1,100 attendees.

The governor and lieutenant governor used their weekly news conference this morning to thank sponsors for the summit

"I want to thank every single one of our sponsors who stepped up to help support our second anti-bullying summit," said Branstad. "This would not have been possible with their generous assistance. Generous summit support pledged by sponsors this summer and registration fees should cover most if not all of the summit costs, estimated to be about $100,000."

A complete list of sponsors is available on the summit website: https://preventbullying.iowa.gov/.

Any additional funds raised by the anti-bullying summit campaign will go to a statewide bullying prevention education fund for Iowa schools. Schools will be able to apply to the Iowa Department of Education for competitive grants for bullying prevention education in the 2014-15 school year. Grants will be distributed across the state among rural, urban and suburban schools.

"We want to send the message that bullying prevention should be a top priority for all of us," said Reynolds. "Support for bullying prevention efforts both inside and outside schools is essential to make the kind of progress needed. It's important that parents, grandparents, educators, elected officials and other community leaders - as well as students - do more to address this pervasive problem."

The theme for the summit is "Mission Possible: Stepping up the Response."

The summit will be streamed live starting at 9 a.m.by eSchoolMedia Inc., in partnership with EduVision by JDL Horizons. JDL Horizons, using its flagship Internet streaming solution EduVision, will accept the stream and deliver the summit to a national audience of more than 1 million K-12 educators throughout North America and around the world. The stream can be seen live at https://educateiowa.eduvision.tv/

Gov. Branstad's speech, as prepared for delivery:

Thank you, Lt. Governor Reynolds. And thank you to the approximately 1,100 Iowans attending this second Governor's Bullying Prevention Summit.

We're here because together we have work to do.

As Lt. Governor Reynolds noted, a number of bullying prevention efforts are already under way across Iowa. I'll add Sioux City public schools, the Cardinal Community School District in Eldon, and St. Mary's in Manchester to the list of places moving Iowa in the right direction.

But if Iowans do nothing more to address the problem of bullying, we will fall short.

57 percent of students who participated in the 2012 Iowa Youth Survey reported being bullied at school in some way in the past 30 days. That's up from 50 percent in 2010.

Maybe students are more willing to report bullying. Maybe more bullying is occurring on social networking sites. Maybe the difference between meanness and bullying isn't always clear.

In any case, 57 percent of students feeling bullied should trouble everyone.

Whatever explains the increase, the first step is looking at how schools can do more to cultivate a culture of respect and kindness. What should we be asking of students, teachers and school staff? How can we get parents more involved? What else could community leaders do?

It is striking that an investigation into factors that may have contributed to A.J.  Betts's death by suicide in July found Southeast Polk High School staff had not tolerated bullying, but that more could be done to improve the school's culture. The district is now working to do that at the high school, along the lines of some of the activities already in place in middle school.

Changing the culture means facing the fact that bullying is a real problem - it is not a normal childhood rite of passage - and agreeing we can do better.

The Iowa Department of Education last year launched a new data collection system to provide a more accurate picture of bullying in schools.

Yet the information districts initially sent to the department this summer suggests reporting is not always the priority it should be. Dozens of districts reported no incidents of bullying.  Other districts reported many incidents, while similar-sized districts reported few.

It's important that we get this right - that we neither understate nor overstate the problem of bullying, but get our arms around the extent of it.

A second step is looking at whether we should strengthen state law to deal with cyber-bullying.

Let's make sure schools have the authority they need to respond to bullying that occurs on social networking sites when it affects students at school.

Let's make sure students understand that it is unacceptable to post rumors, threats and humiliating photos harassing classmates.

All of us can step up the response to bullying - inside schools but also outside schools.

That is why I am proud to make two announcements today. At the 2012 summit, I announced the launch of a new anti-bullying and suicide prevention resource - Your Life Iowa.

This hotline and website provide help to Iowans 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Kids can text their concerns as well as call in.

We plan to expand hours for texting from the current 4 to 8 p.m. to 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Your Life Iowa will soon step up its outreach in other ways, with details available in coming months.

I am also proud to announce that the Iowa Barnstormers plan to launch an anti-bullying campaign for the 2014 season with the slogan, "We've got your back." Initially, there will be one program for younger students and one for high school athletes. This will include some of the players visiting schools. Eventually, the Barnstormers hope to add a program for parents.

What a great example of leadership. Thank you to the Iowa Barnstormers!

In closing, I've received emails, letters and phone calls in the last couple years from students as well as adults who recall the sting of bullying like it was yesterday.

One recent letter asked, "Will you do something about it?"

That's the question for all of us.

I am confident that together we can do more to address bullying, including the kinds of behavior that can escalate into bullying.

After all, this is Iowa where we pride ourselves on looking out for each other.

When you pick up your box lunch today, you will also receive an orange and teal wristband that says, "Iowans United Against Bullying."

I hope you will wear it with pride. We are united against bullying, and I deeply appreciate your commitment. Thank you.

Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds' speech, as prepared for delivery:

Thank you, Director Buck for that nice introduction.

Good morning everyone. Thank you for attending the 2^nd Governor's Bullying Prevention Summit.

How many students are in the audience today?

Could I have a show of hands please?

And how many adults are here?

I am thrilled to see all of you.

Your commitment to stepping up the response to bullying is clear.

Governor Branstad and I share that commitment.

The message of our first Governor's Bullying Prevention Summit in November 2012 was that schools alone can't stop bullying, that it takes the community.

This year our focus is on practical next steps, how students and adults can make a difference.

We have a shared responsibility to make sure everyone feels safe and respected at school.

State law may need to be strengthened.

But let's also change the culture so bullying is not acceptable anywhere -- not on the playground, not in the cafeteria, and not on social media.

This is a challenge we can meet by building on the many good things already going on in Iowa to address bullying.

I'll highlight three...

First, after last year's summit, Oskaloosa Middle School students returned home and began to plan a Kindness Day for May 2013.  

Quote - "When you are kind, you can't be a bully. This was the message the students heard at the summit," recalled counselor Amanda Hoffman. 

Kindness Day activities included writing a note the recognized an act of kindness by a classmate and taking an all-school photo with students wearing orange T-shirts in a show of unity. 

The second example is in Ankeny, where schools have a new slogan -- "Bullying: We don't do that here." The slogan is part of an anti-bullying action plan approved by the school board in September. Businesses and the city council are supporting this initiative, launched after a community survey identified bullying as a top concern.

The plan also includes a hotline for anonymous reports on bullying.

And third, the Iowa Youth Congress at their annual meeting in October picked cyber-bullying reform as one of their top priorities.

Now I have the honor of introducing Aditi Dinakar, a Johnston High School senior and regional president for Iowa Youth Congress, to tell you more.

(Aditi speaks for 2 minutes.)

Thank you, Aditi, and Iowa Youth Congress for your commitment to bullying prevention.

We are grateful to all the students, parents, educators, civic and business leaders, and elected officials, who have been involved in bullying prevention efforts across our state.

We also want to thank our many sponsors, whose generous contributions have made this second summit possible, and who helped raise additional funds for bullying prevention education.

You are all setting a great example.

Now, it's my privilege to turn the podium over to Gov. Terry Branstad.

You won't find a more passionate, caring or kind individual than Governor Branstad.

Repeatedly, he will say his goal is to treat people with - quote - "respect and dignity." And I see him demonstrate that every day, even when the cameras aren't rolling.

I am so pleased Governor Branstad has chosen to champion bullying prevention, on top of all of his other responsibilities. He understands that students deserve to feel safe and respected at school.

Please join me in welcoming Gov. Terry Branstad!

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DAVENPORT, IA–Celebrate America Recycles Day with us! There are two ways to join the fun.

On Friday, Nov. 15, Waste Commission of Scott County and iLivehere (a Keep America Beautiful affiliate) will host a free tour of the Scott Area Recycling Center at 1 p.m. The one-hour tour is open to everyone, but space is limited. Sign up online at www.wastecom.com.

Can't make the tour? Stop by one of the Commission's recycling drop-off locations and enjoy a free treat! From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 15, you can get all your recycling questions answered and warm up with a complimentary cup of hot chocolate at 5640 Carey Ave. or 202 S. Marquette St., Davenport.

On America Recycles Day, Keep America Beautiful affiliates across the U.S. host activities to educate people about recycling. Details are online at www.americarecyclesday.org. For more information about iLivehere, visit www.ilivehereqc.org.

Waste Commission of Scott County is an inter-governmental agency whose mission is to provide environmentally sound and economically feasible solid waste management for Scott County. For more information about the Commission, please call (563) 381-1300 or visit www.wastecom.com.

ROCKFORD, IL (11/04/2013)(readMedia)-- Veteran's Day means something different to everyone. For some, it is a time to grieve for what has been lost. For others, it is celebrated for the freedoms fought for and gained.

For Illinois Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Lawrence Orsborn Jr., it is a moment for reflection and pride.

"Twice a year, on Memorial Day and Veteran's Day, families and friends meet at the LZ (Landing Zone) Peace Memorial located at Midway Village in Rockford, Illinois," said Orsborn, a recruiting and retention noncomissioned officer with Company D, Recruit Sustainment Battalion in Aurora, Ill. "The event is held to pay honor and tribute to the veterans, both living and on the wall of the memorial. They are Vietnam veterans from Winnebago County."

Orsborn said both are solemn days to remember and honor those who came before and served their country.

"It's not about the sales we see on TV...it's about the men and women of the past who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their beliefs," said Orsborn, a Rockford, Ill., native. "It allows peace for the families of those who were lost, and a way to honor who those men and women were. To not forget their memory, to hold that piece of history close to your heart."

Orsborn's father served in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive, from 1967 to 1969. His example ultimately influenced his son to join.

"My father's influence is everything I try to hold dearly each day," said Orsborn. "To teach new recruits to be proud of our flag, and the rights of freedom for all those oppressed, no matter where that takes you or what you may face."

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Stephen Cooper, the Joint Force Headquarters' command staff chaplain, usually does the benediction and closing prayers for these events. He said the day is full of meaning for all veterans and must be remembered.

"We stand on the very tall shoulders of the Soldiers, Marines, Airmen and Sailors who went before us," said Cooper, also a Rockford native. "We must never forget our heritage and the blood, sweat and tears that were shed building that heritage. For Vietnam veterans this is perhaps even more the case since, for the most part, they did not receive their due recognition and honor when they came home."

Cooper also said this day holds a special significance for Orsborn.

"These events are extremely significant for Staff Sgt. Orsborn," he said. "Not only is he a combat vet himself, but his father's name is on the LZ Peace Memorial wall as a fallen Vietnam veteran."

Orsborn agreed the day means much to him.

"On those hallowed days, I get to stand and read the fifth panel of names," said Orsborn. "I stutter, I cry...I am proud to read the name, Lawrence Edward Orsborn Sr., my own name, my namesake, my father and my best friend. It hurts each and every time. Family and veterans are always encouraged to speak. The voices heard echo in the wind and our hearts."

This year marks the 50th anniversary since the Vietnam War. Cooper emphasized the importance of events such as these, as they have a direct impact on those serving today.

"Anecdotally, this very group of Vietnam vets was key in my 'recovery' from my time in Iraq," he said. "I grew up with Vietnam vets as my heroes. To have them look at me, a fellow combat vet, in the eye and consider me a brother was incomprehensibly momentous to me."

Orsborn echoed this sentiment.

"The importance of the Vietnam war is vast," Cooper said. "From a historical perspective, it opened up the racial balances of our own country. Men volunteered and were drafted. Women saw the grimaces of combat as nurses, saving lives both physically and mentally. Back home our nation was at war over serving or not. The younger generation needs to understand what choices can do to our country."

As the years go by, Orsborn said he will continue to participate in events like these and honor the

memory of all veterans.

"It is very humbling to speak of these brave men; to speak of the passion I have for the memory of my father," Orsborn said. "I can honestly say that my heart yearns to talk to him again, to show him the man I have become and the children I have raised, to show him the Soldiers I have enlisted and the passion I display to them about service to this great nation."

Orsborn said his father is and will continue to be his role model in both his military career and life.

"The main inspiration I have is my dad's shell casing from his funeral," he said. I carry that every day with me, everywhere I go, no matter my clothing. It is with me, as is my dad, eternally."

MOLINE, Ill. (November 2, 2013) - Andrew Fournier scored a pair of third period goals- including the game winner- as the Brampton Beast edged the host Quad City Mallards 4-3 Saturday night.

Fournier gave the Beast its fourth lead of the night and third of the third period from the doorstep at 12:58 of the final frame.  Fournier delivered the decider just a minute and 12 seconds after Gergo Nagy's close range power play goal had evened the score at three.  Brampton's Brett Smith had provided a similarly quick response from the left wing circle at the 5:43 mark of the third after the Mallards' Corbin Baldwin had knotted the contest at two at 4:20.  Fournier's goals bookended the third period- he gave the Beast a 2-1 lead by finishing off a 2-on-1 rush just 67 seconds into the period.

The Beast had first moved in front when Michael MacIsaac tipped in a power play opener at 10:38 of the first period.  After missing the net from the high slot, Jeff Lee pounced on the carom from the end boards and backhanded the first Mallard goal in under the cross bar from the bottom of the right wing circle at 6:14 of the second period.

Quad City fell despite outshooting the Beast 32-26 on the night and 17-6 in a third period that saw Brampton goaltender Krisofer Westblom make 15 saves.

The Mallards return to action next Friday night at 7:05 p.m. on home ice against the Denver Cutthroats.  That game is a $1 Dog/$1 Beer Friday presented by 97X.  $1 hot dogs and $1 beers will be available at iWireless Center concession stands during each of the Mallards' 11 Friday night home games this season, but the Mallards never would take the lead.

Tickets for next Friday night's tilt and all other 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.

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 are approaching 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.