WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

Pebble Creek Golf Course - 3851 Forest Grove Drive, LeClaire, IA 52753, phone - 563-332-5072 LeClaire, IA. http://www.pebblecreekgolf.org Pebble Creek is a challenging course located near LeClaire, IA. The superb design and excellent condition of the golf course guarantees an enjoyable round of play for golfers of all abilities. Open to the public, our social atmosphere is casual and welcoming for everyday play, social functions, and tournaments. Our customer service is friendly and personalized. We look forward to seeing you!  

CALENDAR

May 24th - Wide River Winery - 106 N. Cody Rd. LeClaire, IA. Kick off your Memorial Day weekend in our courtyard wine garden Friday with our Summer Music Series!  Every Friday evening, 5-8 p.m., and on first Sundays from 2-5 p.m., we will feature local up and coming musicians. This Friday's featured artists: Ellis Kell & Tony Hoeppner!

Programs, performers & activities for all ages. Registration materials for Children (B-5th G) available at the library starting May 20th.Program information & Activity Calendar available at the library & online @

June 2nd - Live Music at the Wide River Winery Tasting Room "The Ripplers" from 2-5pm 106 N. Cody Road www.wideriverwinery.com

June 7th - First Friday in LeClaire!  5:00-8:00 p.m.

Food and Beverage Samples at Mississippi River Distilling Company www.mrdistilling.com

Wine samples and live music at Wide River Winery www.wideriverwinery.com

Aunt Hattie's Fanciful Emporium - go in for a free red velvet cupcake!

Razzleberries Come in to shop and get free samples of booze cake (while it lasts)!

Free appraisals at LeClaire Antiques and Appraisals until 7 p.m.

Restaurants and many other shops and will be open late!

June 8th - Trivia Night at the LeClaire Civic Center benefiting the Buffalo Bill Museum. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with trivia starting at 7 p.m. Participants may bring beer, wine, snacks and soda. Water and snacks will also be for sale. Up to eight people per table. $10 per person with a $50 table minimum. Everyone will be entered into a drawing for door prizes. Contact Chris at chris@ccx.net or 563-505-6703 for reservations or information. Don't have enough for a full table? Come anyway and we can put you on a table that needs people!

June 16th - Asbury Methodist Church "WORSHIP IN THE PARK" and Potluck Service The Worship Committee of Asbury United Methodist Church, Bettendorf, is planning a Praise Worship Service in the Park on Sunday, June 16 at 10:30 a.m.  The service will be held at Veterans Memorial Park Bandshell, 1645 23rd St., Bettendorf. Following the service there will be a potluck picnic with sliced ham provided.  Please bring a dish to share and your own table service, drink & lawn chair.

June 17th-21st - Kingdom Rock Vacation Bible School - Asbury United Methodist Church 9 a.m. to noon, 1809 Mississippi Blvd., Bettendorf - 563-355-5218 Register on-line www.asbury-bett.org.  VBS is offered for participants ages Kindergarten through 5th grade (completed), and to volunteers 6th grade and up.  If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Swinney at 563-505-0060 or mswinney@mchsi.com.

June 21st - 22nd - THE LeCLAIRE GIRLS' GET AWAY WEEKEND! On the evening of Friday, June 21, and all day Saturday, June 22, 2013, TUGFEST hosts the Girls's Getaway Weekend in LeClaire, Iowa! Sign up today for this amazing event featuring give aways, coupons, music, games and delicious food. MEET Anthony Ryan Auld the Winner of this year's "Project Runway All Stars" at the Girls Get Away Fashion Show & Cocktail Party on Saturday evening. No other contestant has had more wins beating the best designers in a single season of the show. Anthony Ryan will be speaking about his journey to becoming a top fashion designer and winning Project Runway All Stars. KWQC's anchor and on-air reporter Bailey Deitz will be the mistress of ceremonies for this special event. The LeClaire Girls' Get Away will start on Friday evening, June 21, at the Wide River Winery, where you will taste award-winning wines and pick up your GIRLS GET AWAY passport to LeClaire with your goody bags.

On Saturday, June 22, LECLAIRE GIRLS GET AWAY events include :

* Grasshoppers will host music and wine tasting on their beautiful lawn.

* Win Prizes every hour on the hour at Aunt Hattie's Fanciful Emporium.

* Dwellings will be hosting Margarita Man.

* Zaruba's will host mini make overs.

* Free Tours at the Mississippi River Distilling Company.

* Expert Tammy Allen will teach a FREE Class in "Punch Needle" at Primitive Cottage.

* The Buffalo Bill Museum will offer a Quilt Making Class.

Cost to participate in the LeClaire Girls Get Away are $65 per person. Go to Leclairegirlgetaway.com

July 1st - Friends of the LeClaire Community Library is planning an Open House to celebrate our 9th anniversary! Details are forthcoming!

July 15th-19th - LeClaire Baptist Church - "Colossal Coaster World" VBX Week For kids age 4 up through kids going INTO 6th grade! Cost: FREE! Time:  9:00 AM - Noon Location:  1326 Wisconsin Street LeClaire, Iowa  52753 Family program:  SUNDAY, July 21 at 10:30 PM followed by our "Burger Bash" lunch! For more information or registration: phone:  (563) 289-4191 e-mail:  leclairebaptist@leclairebaptist.org or REGISTER ONLINE at www.leclairebaptist.org (under ministries and kids vbx link)

FYI

The LeClaire Tourism Board Has Two Openings - one for Restaurant and one for Retail representation. Please consider applying, if you feel you are qualified: 1. You need to own or manage a LeClaire restaurant or retail store. 2. Get the application from City Hall or online: http://www.leclaireiowa.gov/MEMBERSHIP%20FORM.pdf 3. Turn the completed application in to City Hall no later than Thursday, May 30, 2013.Thank you for considering this opportunity to serve your community!

Grace Marine/Captain's Quarters now has Pontoon Boat and Jet Ski Rentals! 2 hour Rental - $150. 4 hour Rental - $300.  6 hour Rental - $400.  All day Rental - $500. Jet ski Rentals: $80 per hour or all day for $400.  All fuel costs are the responsibility of the customer.  Any damage sustained will be the responsibility of the customer.  A reservation will need to be made at least 1 week in advance, at which time a $250 fee will be charged to hold the rental and will serve as the damage deposit - customer will need a Visa or MasterCard to hold the rental.  Please call 563.359.1635 to make your reservation or email junior@gracemarine.com

Please volunteer or help recruit volunteers for the LeClaire Information Center! We get a lot of great comments about the LIC, and we help promote all of LeClaire:

1. Through telling visitors about our great attractions, shops, restaurants, parks, schools, housing developments, etc.,

2. By mailing out information to individuals, small groups and bus tours who want to come find out what LeClaire is all about, and

3. Through providing nice, convenient public restrooms to shoppers, diners, people checking out our attractions, families, LeClaire residents who are just out for a walk - everyone appreciates the restrooms!

Almost everyone knows at least one person who loves to talk and meet new people - a retired neighbor or stay-at-home mom, a relative, a friend, a person from church, a person from your civic club, a person from exercise class... Please contact Cindy at 563-650-7963 or info@visitleclaire.com Volunteers are trained and there is lots of brochures and information to share with visitors.

Let's make downtown LeClaire and the LeClaire Information Center the best it can possibly be!

Buffalo Bill Museum is now open until 5pm daily. As of April 1st, the museum is open 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, and on Sundays 12noon to 5pm. A reminder: group discounts are available for tour groups, clubs/reunions, and school groups. Call the museum at 563-289-5580 for details!

Reusable Usables - Planet Green recycled art after school classes on Tuesday and Thursdays.RSVP 563-289-3946 or angie@reusableusables.org

"LIKE" the LeClaire Chamber of Commerce on FaceBook Visit the chamber's Face Book page and discover a great source of news, business announcements, events, and other information that is updated frequently. It's a useful source of updated information for all members and non-members!

Chamber 2013 Networking Events - Everyone welcome to attend!

June 6 - Black Watch Room - after hours - 5-8pm (1st Thursday)

July 9 - Blue Iguana - Lunch -noon

August 13 - Big Dave and Holly's - lunch -noon

September 10 - Steventon's - after hours - 5-8pm

October 8 - Hungry Hobo - lunch - noon

November 12 - tbd

December 10 - Happy Joes - lunch -noon

SERVING THE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND

Meet and greet Pastor Melody any Wednesday from 1-3 pm at Happy Joe's. Pastor Melody from First Presbyterian Church of LeClaire, will be at Happy Joe's in LeClaire, every Wednesday, from 1-3 pm, sipping on a soda, reading and waiting to visit with you and your friends. Stop by and say hi. Or, if you have a prayer request or a question, just let her know. Meals for Seniors at the church every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 12 noon. Good food and a time to visit with others. Please call 563-289-3646 and make a reservation 2 days in advance.

Trivia Nights in LeClaire at the LeClaire Civic Center -

2013 Trivia Nights:

June 8 - Buffalo Bill Museum

July 13 - Hosted by First Presbyterian Church - Hurricane Sandy Victims

LeClaire Trivia Nights have raised over $95,000 for local non-profit organizations! Thank you for your continued support!

LeClaire 2013 Events Calendar:

First Fridays each month 5:00-8:00 P.M.

June 7th-8th LeClaire City-Wide Garage Sales

June 21st-22nd - Girls' Getaway Weekend

Summer 2013 - City-Wide Water Explosion (Hollyhock Park)

Summer 2013 - Bike Parade & Decorating

August 8th-10th Tugfest

October 6th - Dogtoberfest at Bier Stube

October 13th - AppleFest

October 24th - HalloWine

October 26th - Witches Walk Costume Contest and Parade

December 6-8, 2013: Christmas in LeClaire

Family Nights at the LeClaire Rec Center: Details at www.leclairereccenter.com

www.LeClaireChamber.com and visit the Chamber on FaceBook!

Weekly Events Header
Hello!
farmer's market After some technical issues last week, we're happy to be back in business with the weekly calendar!  Now, on to the good stuff. You're guaranteed to have the best Memorial Day grill out on the block if you pick up farm fresh meat and produce at the Freight House Farmer's Market!  You can enjoy tunes by Dave Maxwell and Chuck Hanson while you shop, too.
teen job fair Do you know a teen looking for a job? Send them to the RiverCenter Wednesday for The Mayor's Teen Job Fair. This is a unique one-stop opportunity for teens seeking local jobs.  Later this weekend, the sounds of the windy city will be in the air when Chicago rapper Chief Keef hits the  RiverCenter stage! Down the street at GAHC, stop in for an event highlighting German wedding traditions with Kathi Hofmann.
picadilly circusFeaturing camels and zebras performing with ponies, clowns and an Elephant Extravaganza, the Piccadilly Circus is sure to please the whole family tonight at River's Edge!  If you're looking for other family events this week, head to the Figge to see the Young Artists at the Figge exhibit before it closes this Sunday or hit up a River Bandits game.
With four Blues Music Awards including the 2010 Album of the Year, Joe Louis Walker is not to be missed at  River Music Experience Friday!  If you're more of a Neil Young, Tom Petty, or Bob Dylan fan, come hear what Dead Leaves has to offer on Saturday. For something a bit more uptempo, check out the The Waffle Stompers upstairs in the Redstone Room.  From Mandolin Junction to Community Drum Circle, there are plenty of more events at RME this week, too.
fun for foodies Sick of the same old dinner routine? Mix things up this week when the Figge offers a cooking class and dinner for their Fun for Foodies at the Figge event. Hosted by the Figgey's very own executive chef, Dave Mickelwright, enjoy a delicious meal while learning how to prepare it yourself!   Make sure you grab your complimentary gift to remember the evening!
Project Green SpaceAlthough this event isn't until NEXT Thursday, we wanted to get it on your radar now because it's sounds highly entertaining.  Promoted as "Art! Music! Grilling! Astroturf!, the Figge is hosting  Project Green Space, which will feature graffiti gurus Kevin Lonergan II and Gary White!  Brats and cold beers will be on hand and the evening will end with a projection of artwork projected ON the Figge by Bruce Walters.
App Photo If you haven't already done so, now is the perfect time to download our downtown Android App or iPhone App! You'll love the quick lists of local events, shops, and restaurants when you're out and about this summer.  Remember to thank the men and women who've served  this weekend and we'll see you downtown!
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This Week's Events: May 23 - May 29


Thursday, May 23

Competitor Coupon Craze

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Cooking Class and Dinner

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Price: $40/person; $75/couple

Website

 

Drop-In Hockey (Adult)

Where: River's Edge, Ice

Time: 11:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: $10

Website

 

Kilkenny's Open Mic with Karl

Where: Kilkenny's Pub

Time: 9 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Live Lunch with Mo Carter

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Piccadilly Circus

Where: River's Edge

Time: 4:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Price: $8-$38

Website

 

Quad Cities River Bandits vs. Wisconsin Timber Rattlers

Where: Modern Woodmen Park

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Price: $6 and Up

Website

 

River's Edge Monthly Turf & Ice Schedule

Discover dozens of sporting events at River's Edge!

Follow the links below to see the complete ice and turf schedule for the month.

Ice Schedule

Turf Schedule

Website

 

Thursdays at the Figge

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Trivia Challenge - Win Gift Certificates!

Where: Brady Street Pub

Time: 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Stick around for live music by Kilborn Alley Blues Band

Website

 

Watercolor Class

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: Noon - 3:00 p.m.

Price: $95/member; $105/non-member

Website

Friday, May 24

$1,500 FREEky Friday Giveaway

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Website

Adam Beck

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m. - Midnight

Price: FREE

Website

Brewery Tours

Where: Great River Brewery

Time: 6:00 p.m, 7:00 p.m, and 8:00 p.m.

Price: N/A

Website

Joe Louis Walker
Where: River Music Experience, Redstone Room
Time: Doors 7:00 p.m. / Show 8:00 p.m.
Price: $15 in adv., $18 day of show
Live Lunch with Lewis Knudsen
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: Noon -1:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Live Music: The Candymakers
Where: Brady Street Pub
Time: 9:30 p.m.
Price: FREE
Mike Cochrane
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Public Skate
Where: River's Edge, Ice
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ; 6:00p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Price: $5 and Up
Quad Cities River Bandits vs. Wisconsin Timber Rattlers
Where: Modern Woodmen Park
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $6 and Up
Weekend Warriors presented by West Music
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: 9:15 p.m.
Price: FREE

Saturday, May 25

 

$15,000 Cash Cow Giveaway

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Website

 

Adam Beck

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m. - Midnight

Price: FREE

Website

 

Brewery Tours

Where: Great River Brewery
Time: Noon, 1:00 p.m, 2:00 p.m, and 3:00 p.m.
Price: N/A

 

Community Drum Circle

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Price: $5 for Adults, $2.50 for Children 12 and Under

Website

 

Dead Leaves with Lewis Knudsen

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time: Doors 7:30 p.m. / Show 8:00 p.m.

Price: $5

Website

 

Detroit Larry and Chris Show

Where: Barrel House 211

Time: 9:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

DMC- Dave Maxwell and Chuck Hanson

Where: Freight House Farmer's Market

Time: 9:00 a.m. - Noon

Price: FREE

 

Drop-In Hockey (Adult)

Where: River's Edge, Ice

Time: 4:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.

Price: $10

Website

 

Exhibition: Double Expose: Prints of Past and Present

Where: German American Heritage Center

Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; Noon - 4:00 p.m. Sun.

Price: Museum Admission or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: American POP Art!

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Pushing the Envelope

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Marking Territory

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), FREE with membership

Website

 

Exhibition: Vintage Vows and Veils

Where: German American Heritage Center

Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, Noon - 4:00 p.m. Sunday

Price: Adults $5, Seniors $4, Children (5-17) $3, FREE for members and children under 5

Website

 

Exhibition: Young Artists at the Figge - Pleasant Valley

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with Membership

Website

 

Freight House Farmers Market

Where: Freight House Farmer's Market

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Live Lunch with Rachael Schuldt
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Price: FREE

Midnight Multiplier

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: Midnight - 4:00 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Public Skate
Where: River's Edge, Ice
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Price: $10

Rock the Pit

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Price: FREE
Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

UFC 160

Where: Brady Street Pub

Time: 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

The Waffle Stompers with Fairhaven, Must Build Jacuzzi, and The Suites

Where: River Music Experience, Redstone Room

Time: Doors 7:00 p.m. / Show 7:30 p.m.

Price: $7

Website

 

Sunday, May 26

 

$3,000 Sunday Shake Up Slot Tournament

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

$10,000 Memorial Moo Lah Lah Giveaway
Where: Rhythm City Casino
Time: Noon - 9:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Chief Keef Concert
Where: The RiverCenter
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Price: $27 in adv., $42 Day of Show
Exhibition Closes: Vintage Vows and Veils
Where: German American Heritage Center
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($5 or less), FREE with Membership
Exhibition Closes: Young Artists at the Figge
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership
German Wedding Traditions with Kathi Hofmann
Where: German American Heritage Center
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($5 or less), FREE with membership

Midnight Multiplier

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: Midnight - 4:00 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Sunday Jazz Brunch at Bix Bistro

Where: Blackhawk Hotel

Time: 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Price: Adults - $17.95 and Kids - $8.95

Website

 

Sunday Live Jazz

Where: Brady St. Chop House

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website


Tour: American POP! Selections from the CU Art Museum Collection
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership

Monday, May 27

 

$10,000 Memorial Moo Lah Lah Giveaway

Where: Rhythm City Casio

Time: Noon - 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Memorial Day Buffet

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 10:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: $9

Website

 

Mexican Monday

Where: Barrel House 211

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: $3 Margaritas and $5 Tacos

Website

 

Nifty 50's

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 a.m. - Noon and 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Tuesday, May 28


Bix Bistro Cooking Class
Where: Hotel Blackhawk
Time:6:00 p.m.
Price: $65/person

Competitor Coupon Craze

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Drop-In Hockey (Adult)

Where: River's Edge, Ice

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Price: $10

Website

 

Freight House Farmers Market
Where: Freight House Building and Parking Lot
Time: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Price: FREE

 

It's Firkin Tuesday!

Where: Barrel House 211

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: $3 Burger Baskets

Website


Mandolin Junction
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Price: FREE

Open Jam Session

Where: Brady Street Pub

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

The 2013 Illinois Forage Expo will be held on Tuesday July 16 hosted by Adam Schroeder, Coal Valley, Illinois. The event will be held on Niabi Zoo Road, just east of the Zoo in Rock Island County.  The Expo will start at 9:00 am and conclude at 3:00 pm.

The Forage Expo will include field demonstrations of forage harvesting equipment and commercial displays of forage related products and equipment.  In addition, educational sessions will be presented that focus on forage management.  For information concerning exhibiting a commercial display contact Dave Gentry, GROWMARK, Inc., P.O. Box 2500, Bloomington, IL  61702-2500, phone (309) 557-6397 or email at dgentry@growmark.com.

Also, a Quality Hay & Haylage Contest will be available for producers to enter 2013 harvested bales and haylage.  Entries in the Quality Hay & Haylage Contest must be delivered on site from 8:30 am to 10 am.  There is no entry fee and NIRS analysis will be provided free of charge.  

Bales weighing over 100 pounds will need an official scale weigh ticket.  Four hay and one haylage class will be available and class winners will receive a certificate.  

Specifically the Forage Expo site can be reached by taking the Quad Cities airport exit off of the I74/I280  interchange and go east on Route 6/1st Avenue (which turns into 69th Avenue) about 3 miles to Niabi Zoo Road.  Then turn right (southeast) and go 1 ½ mile to the Expo site.

Additional information concerning the Illinois Forage Expo will be available in several weeks at http://www.illinoisforage.org/.  

The Forage Expo is co-sponsored by the Illinois Forage and Grassland Council, University of Illinois Extension and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

-30-

Urges districts to better prepare students for college math, careers

SPRINGFIELD - May 23, 2013. As the state's point person on education reform, Lt. Governor Sheila Simon and the Illinois State Board of Education today released the state's first 6th-12th grade math curriculum and urged middle and high schools statewide to implement the new courses beginning this fall.

The new curriculum package aims to reduce remedial math needs for college-bound students and improve career readiness for those going into the workforce. In 2012, 58 percent of Illinois high school graduates failed to meet the math college readiness benchmark, according to the ACT. Research shows when students enroll in remedial math courses at college, they are more likely to drop out or graduate late.

To make sure Illinois students are better prepared for college-level math and careers, Simon worked with ISBE last year to pass Senate Bill 3244 and launch the Math Curriculum Task Force to design the first-ever statewide math curriculum units. The units outline teaching techniques aligned with Common Core standards, providing educators a better road map for math instruction than ever before.

"We want to put all middle and high school students on a track for success," Simon said. "Colleges and employers expect our students to have certain skills, but find too many students unprepared. The tools we released should help educators better prepare students to compete in the global marketplace."

Illinois adopted the Common Core standards in 2010. But how to implement or teach to those standards has been up to districts. Many rely on textbook companies to dictate curriculum not necessarily aligned to standards, while others can invest in curriculum directors to assist teachers.

The state-designed curriculum units, and soon-to-come lesson plans, provide new, high-quality tools that are aligned with the Common Core and can be adapted as needed to meet each classroom's needs. Simon said this should help level the playing field for districts with fewer resources.

"This is not an unfunded mandate," Simon said. "We are giving teachers, schools and districts an extra resource to incorporate within their classrooms in a way that is most beneficial to the students."

In all, 24 middle and 28 high school unit outlines were developed, with major changes in high school curriculum. Currently, high school math progresses annually from one content area to the next - Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II. The new model introduces integrated high school math courses - Math I, II and III - which each teach elements of algebra, geometry and statistics at each grade level.

Although four years of math are not required to graduate from high school in Illinois, the new model also includes content recommendations for senior year courses. The fourth-year options include career and technical education courses and dual credit coursework offered in conjunction with a local community college or university. These can help better prepare students for college-level math or the workforce.

Schools can opt to follow the state-recommended scope and sequence of math study in part or whole, or continue to follow local curricula. Analysis of the models' effect will be completed within four years.

"These math curriculum models can help districts continue to implement the more rigorous Illinois Learning Standards in the coming year," said State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch. "Our new learning standards emphasize a holistic approach and ensure that students truly master math concepts and can apply them in their jobs and everyday life."

ISBE has decided to go beyond its statutory charge and develop lesson plans to correspond with the proposed math curricula, as well as develop math curriculum units for elementary schools. The additional materials will be available in the fall.

"The units structure the way a topic should be approached and allow a common ground for all teachers to teach their grade level," said Tai Williford, an 8th grade math teacher from Neal Math and Science Academy in North Chicago. "You can see the progression from one topic to the next and one grade level to the next. Using these units has been great for me and my colleagues because we know what we need the end result to be and we can discuss how to get our students there based on their current standings."

For more information about the model curricula, click here.

###
Join us this summer at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Scott County as we explore the amazing world of insects in "Insectaganza!" our 4-H Clover Kids summer program.  Youth ages five through nine will closely investigate insects such as crickets, butterflies and ladybugs to learn how they communicate, eat, grow, and survive in their natural habitats.  Please note that 5 year olds must have completed kindergarten during the 2012-2013 school year.

Registration is on a first come, first served basis.  Families can chose from a Monday group OR a Wednesday group.  Both groups will meet from 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. for eight weeks beginning the week of June 10, 2013.  The program costs $10.00 for new 4-H Clover Kids.  For more information and to print the registration forms visit http://www.extension.iastate.edu/scott or contact Jodi at (563) 359-7577 or jmbecker@iastate.edu.
  • June 7, 2013 Pesticide Applicator Testing, Scott County Extension office 10:00 am-2:00 pm
  • June 25, 2013 ISU Scott County Extension Council Meeting, Scott County Extension Office, 7:00 pm
  • July 12, 2013 Pesticide Applicator Testing, Scott County Extension office 10:00 am-2:00 pm
  • July 23, 2013 ISU Scott County Extension Council Meeting, Scott County Extension Office, 7:00 pm
Visit our events calendar at our web site:   http://dbs.extension.iastate.edu/calendar/

DES MOINES - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) announced today that his staff will visit all 99 Iowa counties this summer to discuss polices and collect ideas for increasing economic security in America.  The tour will center on four themes central to Senator Harkin's Chairmanship of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee: retirement security, paid sick leave, rebuilding American manufacturing, and increasing the minimum wage.  The "mobile office" tour begins June 6, 2013 in Indianola, Iowa.

"Congress has the ability through meaningful policies to improve economic security for working families in Iowa and across the country," said Harkin. "Throughout the summer, my staff will visit each county and talk to Iowans about the ideas I am promoting to shore up retirement security, rebuild our manufacturing base, and ensure workers have access to paid sick leave and to a fair wage.  I hope that Iowans will attend these events and share their ideas for policies that would help their families."

Senator Harkin, as Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, has introduced four initiatives his staff will discuss during the tour:

Real Retirement Security: The Universal, Secure, and Adaptable ("USA") Retirement Fund. USA Retirement Funds combine the advantages of traditional pensions - e.g., lifetime income benefits and pooled, professional management - with the portability and ease for employers of a 401(k).  That will give middle class families the opportunity to earn secure retirement benefit that they take with them as they change jobs and that they cannot outlive.  Importantly, USA Retirement Funds also make it simple for employers to offer a benefit without having to take on all of the risk and administrative burden.

Allowing Workers to Earn Paid Sick Leave: The Healthy Families Act. The proposal would allow workers to earn up to 56 hours (7 days) of paid sick time per year, by earning 1 hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Workers can use this time to stay home and get well when they are ill, to care for a sick family member, to obtain preventative or diagnostic treatment, or to seek help if they are victims of domestic violence.

Raising the Federal Minimum Wage: The Fair Minimum Wage Act. The proposal would raise the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour from its current $7.25?in three steps of 95 cents?then provide for automatic annual increases linked to changes in the cost of living. The bill would also gradually raise the minimum wage for tipped workers?which currently stands at just $2.13 an hour?for the first time in more than 20 years, to 70 percent of the regular minimum wage.

Bolstering American Manufacturing: The Rebuilding American Manufacturing Act of 2013. The proposal requires the President to establish a National Manufacturing Strategy to better utilize existing federal resources and effectively support American manufacturing.  Senator Harkin also supports President Obama's call to create a National Network for Manufacturing Innovation, a public-private partnership to help manufacturing companies innovate, create new products, and improve the manufacturing process.

Each summer, Senator Harkin's staff visits each Iowa County to talk to Iowans about the issues impacting them and their families.  Staff will then post information on their visits on Senator Harkin's web site (http://harkin.senate.gov/)

A full list of events for this year's tour is still coming together, but all events will be advised to media by county.

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PORT BYRON, IL - State Rep. Mike Smiddy (D-Hillsdale) encourages local residents to practice safe boating habits in recognition of Safe Boating Week.

"Enjoying the outdoors and spending recreational time with friends and family is a part of the summer culture for many families in our area," Smiddy said. "We should all take the necessary precautions to ensure that everyone using our waters this summer remains safe."

Continuing efforts to increase boating safety, the legislature recently unanimously approved a proposal aimed at preventing dangerous and avoidable accidents caused by boaters operating a boat under the influence of alcohol. Under Senate Bill 1479, boat operators involved in an accident causing injury or death would be required to complete a blood alcohol level test, similar to implied consent to a chemical test for drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents.

Several other states passed or are considering similar measures.

"Boating can be dangerous activity when inexperienced operators, rough waters, and quickly changing conditions are brought together," said Smiddy. "This initiative will help keep children, families, and friends safe by further discouraging boat operators from boating recklessly."

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) reported 101boating-related accidents in 2012, including 17 deaths and 77 injuries. Wearing life vests, completing boating safety courses, and avoiding alcohol while operating a motorized boat help protect boaters from accidents and injury. IDNR offers free instructor-led safety education classes throughout the year in addition to online education programs. Information on these programs can be found at www.dnr.state.il.us/safety or by calling IDNR toll-free at (800) 832-2599.

For more information, contact Smiddy's office at RepSmiddy@gmail.com, (309) 848-9098, or toll free at (855) 243-4988.

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Kaplan University's Davenport campus will celebrate the graduation of 102 students on Friday, May 24 at 6:30 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the RiverCenter Great Hall, 136 E. 3rd St. in Davenport.

Student Melanie Baumann, candidate for the master of science in criminal justice degree, will address her fellow graduates.

The May 2013 graduates of Kaplan University's Davenport campus are as follows:

Master of Science

Criminal Justice

Melanie Baumann, Davenport, IA

Jennifer DeCock, Moline, IL

Kimberly Hill, Bettendorf, IA

Kimberley Koller, Muscatine, IA

Melissa Vance, Davenport, IA

Information Technology

Thomas Beaudry, Buffalo, IA

Geoffrey Salyars, Wilton, IA

Environmental Policy

Libby Imming, Davenport, IA

Psychology,

Christopher L. McAfee, Davenport, IA

Bachelor of Science

Accounting

Brian Dalton, Clinton, IA

Business Administration

Derrick Barry, Bettendorf, IA

Justin Burds, Peosta, IA

Jennifer Foster, Aledo, IL

Katie Gerst, Morning Sun, IA

Gail Johns, Clinton, IL

Brittany Johnson, Clinton, IA

Ishanti Johnson, Davenport, IA

Shawn Montagna, Muscatine, IA

LaMonté Nimmers, Rock Island, IL

Gabriella Palmer, Sterling, IL

John Pieper, Muscatine, IA

Darcy Raymie, Davenport, IA

Tiaira Walls, Davenport, IA

Chris Wheatley, Aledo, IL

Criminal Justice

April Davis, Davenport, IA

Kevin Esp, Moline, IL

Michael Grace, Tipton, IA

Dianna Head, Davenport, IA

LeAnna Heard, Davenport, IA

Bobbi Hepler, Davenport, IA

Eustace King, Davenport, IA

Jessica L. McIntyre, Davenport, IA

Michael Pearce, Whitten, IA

Hallie Petre, Davenport, IA

Crystal Roquet, East Moline, IL

Kelly Van Rycke, Davenport, IA

Health Care Administration

Jordan Brautigam, Rock Island, IL

Jennifer Buchanan, Galesburg, IL

Rebecca S. Klemme, Davenport, IA

Ashleigh Mayberry, Clinton, IA

Information Technology

Joseph Bates, Davenport, IA

Harold Boyd, Walcott, IA

Stephen Gibson, Davenport, IA

Randall Miller, Wilton, IA

Thomas Rivera, DeWitt, IA

Kelly Whitlow, Davenport, IA

Jason Wieneke, Geneseo, IL

Seth Yerington, Davenport, IA

Legal Studies

Whitney Dietz, Moline, IL

Vincent Jones, Moline, IL

Kayla M. Thorndike, Eldridge, IA

Psychology

James Hollowell, Sterling, IL

Rachel Paetz, Muscatine, IA

Associate of Applied Science

Accounting

Veronica Bales, Walcott, IA

Barbara Gonzales, Moline, IL

Chelsea Harland, Seaside, CA

Jackelin Moats, Kewanee, IL

Stan Rossmiller, Eldridge, IA

Business Administration

Ashley Atkins, Oceanside, CA

Rhonda Goettsch, Davenport, IA

Melissa Gottfreid, Eldridge, IA

Danny Lapsey, Bettendorf, IA

Justin MacIntyre, Bettendorf, IA

Jessica Mackin, DeWitt, IA

Emily Schwener, Eldridge, IA

Lateshia Sheets, Davenport, IA

Marshall Siegfried, Davenport, IA

Samantha Strohbehn, DeWitt, IA

Nathan Tutor, Eldridge, IA

Criminal Justice

Luke Garcia, Colona, IL

Heather Hammond, Muscatine, IA

Jessica Houseman, Moline, IL

William Lovel, Davenport, IA

Human Services

Jaime Barnes, Bettendorf, IA

Katlyn Gibson, Clinton, IA

Renea Harbison, Davenport, IA

Tiffany Hinkle, Davenport, IA

Bonnie Jenious, Davenport, IA

Ashley Jones, Eldridge, IA

Lynn Mizer, Walcott, IA

Information Technology

Jabes Blake, Clinton, IA

Edgar Grandberry, Rock Island, IL

Angela Leffler, Bettendorf, IA

Jeremy Mills, Moline, IL

Kenneth O'Donnell, Davenport, IA

Cody Schroeder, DeWitt, IA

Medical Assisting

Pamela Bonnewell, Sterling, IL

Tonya Cole, Muscatine, IA

Marcy Combs, Wilton, IA

Jennifer Hass, Davenport, IA

Shannon Lenz, Joy, IL

Kimberly Luke, Davenport, IA

Gwendolyn Marino, Davenport, IA

Katrina Norton, Muscatine, IA

Dallas Retherford, Joy, IL

Julie Smith, Sterling, IL

Leslie Villalpando, Milan, IL

Stephanie Willis, Thomson, IL

Medical Office Management,

Samantha Mayland, Park View, IA

Sonja Newell, Bettendorf, IA

Medical Transcription

Sariah Luna, Davenport, IA

Ellen M. Stone, Bennett, IA

Paralegal Studies

Benjamin Crichfield, Davenport, IA

Chasity Swift, Savanna, IL

About Kaplan University

Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves approximately 49,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.

Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education Group and Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. serves approximately 67,000 students online and through approximately 70 campus-based schools across the United States. Kaplan's higher education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan serves students of all ages through a wide array of offerings including higher education, test preparation, professional training and programs for kids in grades K-12. Kaplan, Inc., is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company and its largest division. For more information, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu today.

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(DES MOINES) -Today, Gov. Terry E. Branstad signed a letter to be delivered to President Obama requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration for 19 Iowa counties where significant damage was sustained from heavy rains, thunderstorms and flooding between April 17-30.

The Governor is making the request for federal Public Assistance Program funding for the counties of Appanoose, Cedar, Clinton, Davis, Decatur, Des Moines, Iowa, Johnson, Keokuk, Lee, Lucas, Marion, Monroe, Muscatine, Ringgold, Van Buren, Wapello, Warren and Wayne.

A joint federal, state and local preliminary damage assessment of the 19 counties found the severe weather caused an estimated $8.9 million of damage that could be eligible under the Public Assistance Program. Public Assistance funds may be used to rebuild damaged infrastructure that may include roads, bridges, culverts and other public facilities, or to cover costs of emergency work during and debris removal after storms.

The Governor's letter to President Obama will be available at www.homelandsecurity.iowa.gov.

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