Rock Island, IL: For more and more adults, libraries are becoming go-to places to learn about new skills and technology, especially as services like music downloading and free eBook checkouts introduce additional ways to use library services and materials.

The Rock Island Public Library Adult Services department is no exception, offering 11 different events this summer where adults can learn about using library eBooks and audiobooks, downloading music and using either an Apple iPad or Android tablet computer.  Classes start next week and include the following free programs:

Getting Started Downloading Library eBooks & eAudiobooks: Learn how to use the Library's free download services to get eBooks and eAudiobooks to your computer, portable listening devices, tablets, and eReaders.

  • Wednesday, June 12th, 6:00 pm, Main Library, 401 19th Street
  • Thursday, June 27th, 1:30 pm, Main Library
  • Wednesday, July 10th, 6:00 pm, Southwest Branch, 9010 Ridgewood Road
  • Thursday, August 8th, 6:30 pm, Main Library

Using Your iPad: Learn more about your iPad, and what you can use it for. Bring your device with you for a free hands-on session with tips and tricks. This program is for owners of Apple devices only.

  • Thursday, June 13th, 2:30 pm, Main Library
  • Tuesday, July 2nd, 6:30 pm, Main Library

Getting Started Downloading Music: With the Rock Island Library's subscription to Freegal Music Service, you can use your library card to download free music. Learn how to use this new service on a variety of devices.

  • Wednesday, June 19th, 6:30 pm, Main Library
  • Wednesday, July 24th, 6:30 pm, Southwest Branch
  • Tuesday, August 13th, 2:00 pm, Main Library

Using Your Tablet: Learn more about your tablet computer, and what you can use it for. Bring your device with you for a free hands-on session with tips and tricks. This program is for owners of Google Android devices only (includes Amazon Kindle Fire tablets.)

  • Thursday, June 20th, 2:30 pm, Main Library
  • Monday, July 22, 6:30 pm, Main Library

Going beyond technology, the Rock Island Library has one more opportunity for adults to work on an important life skill: Getting organized! Professional organizer and national speaker Mona Brantley, owner of the business "Organize That," will present 5 Steps to Getting Organized on Tuesday, August 20 at 6:30 pm at the Main Library, 401 19th Street. Learn the one difference between organized and disorganized people, while understanding why you may have trouble getting or staying organized. Participants will both laugh and learn as Brantley provides logical and helpful hints, tips, and tricks that will make a difference in your life.

All events are free and open to the public. Registration is not required.  The full list of summer programs is available at http://www.rockislandlibrary.org/page/summer-your-library, as well as in the Summer Events brochure and calendars available at all Rock Island Libraries.

For more news about Rock Island Public Library events, call 309-732-7323 (READ) or follow the Rock Island Library on Facebook and Twitter.

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The hiring landscape facing recent college grads is inhospitable, to say the least.
Coach Micheal J. Burt and Colby B. Jubenville share ten tactics to help graduates
create a best-odds scenario for acing interviews and landing a job.

Hoboken, NJ (June 2013)?If you have just graduated from college, congratulations! Take a few moments to admire your diploma and pat yourself on the back...and then get ready to attach your nose firmly to the grindstone (again). Unless you went to school under a rock, you know that graduates are facing one of the worst job markets in recent memory. In 2012, about 1.5 million bachelor's degree holders under age 25 (that's 53.6 percent) were unemployed or underemployed. And the trend isn't on track to change this year, either: A poll released in April revealed that more than half of graduates admitted to difficulty in finding a job.

Clearly, you'll need to differentiate yourself from the pack if you want to get (and keep) a job in this cutthroat environment. And according to Coach Micheal J. Burt and Colby Jubenville, it's not just about showing how different you are from the competition; it's about showing how you'll make a difference for hiring companies.

"In today's economy, companies need to know from the outset that you'll add remarkable value instead of being a drain on the payroll," confirms Burt, coauthor along with Colby B. Jubenville of the new book Zebras & Cheetahs: Look Different and Stay Agile to Survive the Business Jungle (Wiley, 2013, ISBN: 978-1-1186318-0-5, $25.00, www.zebrasandcheetahs.com). "If you show up to an interview and give the same boring, uninspired answers that your competition is giving, your potential employers will be bored. And worse yet, they'll look at you like you're a commodity?just one more in a million other college grads who simply go through the motions once hired.

"You have to show and tell potential employers how you'll bring unique and immediate value to the table. That might seem like a tall order, but a great way to do that is to tell them how you'll positively impact the company during the first 90 days of employment."

In their book, Burt and Jubenville explain exactly what it takes for employees (and specifically, leaders) to survive and thrive in the fast-paced, always-changing, and highly competitive business world. Specifically, they say, today's companies aren't just looking for technical qualifications but for candidates with a specific "softer" skill set.

"Of course employers want to hire people who are committed and who will be on time and work hard," Jubenville says. "But they also need to know that you'll hit the ground running and that you have the ability to boost the company's overall standing, innovate, adapt, and collaborate. Leaders know that employees who are deficient in any of these areas will cause conflict and slow up the entire organization in an economy where teamwork, efficiency, and agility are crucial."

Here, Burt and Jubenville share ten tips that will help you to show your value so that you can get?and keep?a job in the chaos of the concrete jungle:

Respond quickly. On the African savannah, animals that are slow in making a beeline for food and water don't last long. The same thing is true in the concrete jungle. With such a high unemployment rate for college graduates, most jobs won't stay on the market very long after being posted. You've got to be Johnny-on-the-Spot if you want to have a shot at an interview.

"Responding quickly to a job posting will express to the company that you are eager for this particular job," points out Burt. "As an employer, I'm always impressed by candidates who are committed enough to put together articulate, personalized applications within 72 hours of posting. And who knows? Your cheetah-like speed may pay off. Maybe you'll be the first one to apply, the first one to be interviewed, and you'll so impress your interviewers with your unique skills and ideas for the company that everyone else will pale in comparison."

Show up in person (and early) when you can. While it may seem obvious, this point is worth underscoring: Now that you've secured an interview, don't screw it up by being late. (And keep in mind that in these kinds of situations, "on time" is tantamount to "late"!) Arriving at your interview with plenty of time to spare is just good common sense, but most importantly, it's the first in-person opportunity for you to show your potential employer that you're hungry, committed, and motivated.

"I can't overstate how important first impressions are," Jubenville says. "If you walk into that interview room late (or even frazzled and out of breath after dashing in from the parking lot), it doesn't matter how firm your handshake is or how impressively you're able to discuss your résumé. You have already sent the signal that you'll be a weak member of the herd. The one always lagging behind. And since the weakest member of the herd is usually the first to be picked off by predators, why go to the trouble of hiring you in the first place?"

Differentiate yourself. This is arguably the most important thing to bring to the job interview table: a clear answer to the question "What makes you different?" Whether you want to believe it or not, you're one of many freshly graduated applicants with good GPAs, well-rounded résumés, and glowing references. You're not the only one who has researched the company and spent hours prepping for interviews. However, you might be the only applicant for a junior copywriting position who can provide your interviewer with a link and sample posts to your personal blog, which has several hundred followers!

"And while it may sound cliché, a big part of differentiating yourself is simply allowing your personality, interests, values, and quirks to flavor the interview?just don't go overboard and talk for ten minutes about your passion for showing your Weimaraner!" Jubenville explains. "After all, employers aren't just hiring your skill set; they're hiring you. Your personality may get you through the door, but your character will get you the job and keep you in the job. Potential employers need to understand you, like you, and be able to envision you as a part of their team before extending you a job offer. "

Learn to leverage your past. Of course you'll talk about your education during your job interview, and you'll probably have the opportunity to discuss any other experience that might be relevant to the job. But according to Burt, one of the most important points you can make is that you know how to overcome adversity. Whether you've made poor choices in the past or have dealt with an unforeseen obstacle, employers want to know that you can clear hurdles and reinvent yourself when circumstances call for it. No organization wants to hire an employee whose hand will need to be held every time the going gets tough!

"Whether it's big or small, being able to discuss a problem you have successfully dealt with shows that you are adaptable and that you are willing to evolve into a better version of yourself," Burt confirms. "It might help to think about your life backwards: Where are you today and how did you get there? What were the major turning points or challenges? You didn't earn that degree without putting in your share of metaphorical blood, sweat, and tears!"

Showcase your innovation. As recently as ten or fifteen years ago, it was relatively safe for companies to stick with "the way we've always done things." That's not the case anymore. As the global economy becomes flatter, swifter, and more competitive, businesses in all industries are finding it necessary to think of new ways to solve problems on the fly. So even if you're going into a field that is generally seen as non-creative (such as banking or engineering), it's still smart to show that you are imaginative and innovative.

"Innovative thinking is going to instantly increase your value to a company that is trying to move forward," confirms Jubenville. "A good way to demonstrate that you have this skill is to make a video of yourself articulating why you're valuable and what you could bring to the table. In fact, Coach Burt and I sometimes ask candidates to do this very thing in order to gauge how creatively each person thinks and how they react to an open-ended assignment. If video isn't your thing, make sure to weave examples of how you've thought beyond established boundaries and actively sought efficient new solutions to problems into your interview answers."

Let them know you play well with others. Nobody is looking to hire a hotshot employee who's in it for individual glory. While these individuals tend to think of themselves as "superstars," their coworkers and bosses are more likely to describe them as "prima donnas" or "self-absorbed jerks." Instead, companies want to hire people who are willing and eager to be members of a team, and who are capable of collaborating with others to reach the best possible outcome. Increasingly, it takes the skill sets of many different people to stay competitive in the global economy. One person simply can't shoulder the load alone.

"During your interview, highlight your role in past group projects when the opportunity arises," advises Burt. "Another major way in which you can convey that you are easy to work with is to be responsive and sincere in the interview?but don't dominate the conversation. Believe it or not, some candidates interrupt interviewers mid-sentence, or are so determined to talk about a particular topic that they ignore the question that was actually asked. What's the interviewer to assume if not that this person will hijack meetings, projects, and other tasks in the same way? The bottom line is you should make sure you leave the interviewer with the distinct impression that you are both a people person and a team player."

Solve their problems. Before walking into the interview, you need to do your homework about the company you're hoping to work for. And you need to go beyond dropping a few key words or phrases into your cover letter. Being able to intelligently discuss the company overall?as well as the specific position for which you're applying?will not only show the interviewer that you are interested enough to come prepared, it will enable you to pinpoint ways in which you'll be an asset if you're hired.

"All companies want you to be able to do at least one of three things: make the company money, save the company money, and/or solve major problems," Jubenville asserts. "By doing so, you'll add immediate value. Before you go into the interview, think about specific ways in which you can tie your skills and accomplishments to achieving one of those three outcomes. Don't just say, for example, 'I took a class in supply chain management' and leave it at that. Explain how you think that knowledge would help you streamline the company's current product shipping system. Remember, interviewers care about getting to know you, but they care about determining how valuable you'd be to the company a lot more."

Be coachable. Yes, interviewers want to be assured that you have the skill set necessary to get the job (whatever it may be) done well. But they also know that no matter how qualified and experienced you are, you'll still have to learn new things pertaining to your new job and employer. And sooner or later, interviewers also know that you'll receive criticism from supervisors, clients, or both. The ability to accept constructive feedback and implement those suggestions is extremely valuable.

"Many interviewers will purposefully try to ask you difficult questions or knock you a bit off-balance just to see how you handle yourself," Burt warns. "If this happens, don't react defensively or become argumentative. Instead, show that you are flexible and willing to admit when you are wrong or when you don't know an answer. Remain calm and express an interest in learning more. Most employers worth their salt aren't looking for yes-men and blind order-takers; they simply don't want to waste time and effort coaxing inflexible employees to grow, change, and improve."

Hit the ground running. As Burt and Jubenville have pointed out already, companies want to know that you'll add immediate value if you're hired. That's why it's important for you to come to the interview not only with general ideas as to how you'd be an asset, but with at least one specific action plan for how you'd like to hit the ground running.

"Here's an example," offers Jubenville. "While doing your homework on the company, maybe you noticed that their website is confusing, cluttered, or doesn't clearly state what the company is trying to portray. Go into the interview with a 90-day plan to make it better. In my experience, most job candidates don't think about their potential roles with a company in this level of detail. Doing so will set you apart in a major, memorable way."

Show your agility. Being smart, skilled, and capable is good...but these qualities aren't very valuable if you aren't able to deploy them with quickness and efficiency. Employers want to see that you can effectively react and respond to questions and problems in a timely manner. Conveying that you seek out and respond well to challenges is a good way to prove your value in this area. You might want to discuss how you excelled despite a heavy workload during a particular semester, for example, or explain how your summer job working the customer service desk of a retail store taught you to be a swift and decisive problem solver.

"Agility in the workplace also means that you're a quick learner, not just a quick doer," Burt adds. "This is definitely something you want to get across to the employer. Try to remember what he or she says earlier in the interview so that you can tie later answers and conversations back to it."

"Here's one last tip to keep in mind when going into an interview," Burt concludes. "Never ask about money up-front?save that discussion for after you've proven your value. Once your employer knows how much of an asset you are, your request is more likely to be granted, anyway!

"And be persistent," Jubenville adds. "If you get a job offer after your first interview?and it's a position you're excited about accepting?you're one of the very lucky few. Odds are, you'll have to fill out many applications and go to numerous interviews before you reach gainfully employed status. That's okay! Keep putting these strategies into practice, and sooner or later, you'll hear those magic words: 'You're hired.'"

# # #

About the Authors:
Coach Micheal Burt is the coauthor of Zebras & Cheetahs: Look Different and Stay Agile to Survive the Business Jungle. He represents the new age leader: the Zebra and the Cheetah. Part coach, part entrepreneur, and all leader, Coach Burt is the go-to guy for entrepreneurs who want to become people of interest, salespeople who want to be superstars, and managers who want to be coaches. He is a former championship coach and the author of eight books. His radio show, Change Your Life Radio, can be heard globally on iheart.com (WLAC). Follow Coach Burt at www.coachburt.com.

Colby B. Jubenville, PhD, is the coauthor of Zebras & Cheetahs: Look Different and Stay Agile to Survive the Business Jungle. He holds an academic appointment at Middle Tennessee State University and is principal of Red Herring Innovation and Design (www.redherringinc.com), an agency specializing in teaching people and organizations how to compete on unique perspective, education, and experience in order to create unique value. He regularly speaks on his philosophy, Collective Passion, a model that illustrates how to meaningfully connect organizations, customers, and employees.

About the Book:
Zebras & Cheetahs: Look Different and Stay Agile to Survive the Business Jungle (Wiley, 2013, ISBN: 978-1-1186318-0-5, $25.00, www.zebrasandcheetahs.com) is available at bookstores nationwide, from major online booksellers, and direct from the publisher by calling 800-225-5945. In Canada, call 800-567-4797. For more information, please visit the book's page on www.wiley.com.

In her new book, "How To Be A Teen On The Move," (www.LenoreLuca.com), 19-year-old Lenore Luca offers advice for teens - from a teen.

"Many teenagers dream of being known as someone on the move and someone who will be remembered for the things they did and said," says Luca, creator and host of the Internet show "Teen Groove On The Move," in which she interviews celebrities and compelling fellow adolescents, and she is a sought-after youth motivational speaker.

"Unfortunately, so many of us don't realize that we are already someone making a difference and taking steps toward achieving our dreams."

Her website features testimonials from various teens who were inspired by Luca's message - and they like hearing advice from someone who understands them; an author their own age.

Luca says she wrote her book to spread her message of empowering youth to follow their dreams. Through stories and activities, Luca shows teens ways to take responsibility for their lives and encourages them to believe that they can achieve their goals. She provides peer-to-peer information for teens about making better choices in order to stand out as students and athletes. She guides them to learn how to push past rejection while taking action toward accomplishing what makes them happy on their road to living a better life.

Luca says she never stops encouraging her peers to make their time and efforts count, and offers reminders to:

Be Yourself
Be Unique
Be Happy
Follow Your Dreams
No Goal Is Too Small
Embrace Your Weirdness & Awkwardness
Exercise Today
Remember To Do Your Homework
Watch A Good Movie

About Lenore Luca

Lenore Luca is a teen entrepreneur who began her path to becoming a "teen on the move'' when she was 16 years old. Luca is the creator and host of the Internet show "Teen Groove On The Move," which discusses teen topics and news, and shares compelling interviews with celebrity guests. She also travels to schools and community centers, where she aims to help empower her peers to follow their dreams. Luca is the producer of the CD "How To Believe In You." She studies broadcasting at Montclair University.

Houston's top two picks from the 2012 draft win monthly honors one day after being named All-Stars

DAVENPORT, Iowa (JUNE 6, 2013) - Shortstop Carlos Correa is the Quad Cities River Bandits Player of the Month for May, and right-handed pitcher Lance McCullers is team's Pitcher of the Month, the Houston Astros announced on Thursday.

The Houston Astros Player Development Department named a Pitcher and Player of the Month at each of their four in-season minor league affiliates. These awards are chosen every month by the field staff of each team. For Correa and McCullers, the Astros' 2012 first-round draft picks, the awards come one day after they were named to their first professional All-Star Game, which will be June 18 in Dayton, Ohio.

Correa, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft, led the River Bandits in May with a .349 batting average, 30 hits, 38 total bases and 18 RBIs. He had six doubles, a triple and a .423 on-base percentage in 22 games, which including a career-high 10-game hitting streak May 11-19. He currently leads the River Bandits with 34 RBIs and 14 multi-hit games and is tied for the team lead with three home runs. On Wednesday, the 18-year-old Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico, native was named the starting shortstop for the Western Division All-Stars and was the youngest player selected to the league's All-Star rosters.

McCullers, the Astros first supplemental round pick in 2012, earned his first career win May 28 to cap a month in which he had a 1.88 ERA in seven appearances, including four starts. In 24 innings, the 19-year-old Tampa, Fla., native struck out 26 batters. He posted a career-high nine strikeouts in five shutout innings at West Michigan May 5 and did not allow more than two earned runs in any May appearance. After winning his last start June 2 at Beloit, McCullers has a Midwest League-leading 1.70 ERA. He will be on the pitching staff for the Western Division All-Stars June 18.

Through Wednesday, the four active Astros minor league affiliates each have a winning record and are a combined 135-96 for a .584 winning percentage - the best among any organization's minor league system. Quad Cities is in third place in the Midwest League Western Division, while the other three affiliates - advanced Class-A Lancaster, Double-A Corpus Christi and Triple-A Oklahoma City - are each in first place in their respective divisions.

UP NEXT: Reservations can be made from now until June 10 for the River Bandits Father's Day Cookout and pre-game catch scheduled for Sunday, June 16. Check out www.riverbandits.com for details or call 563-324-3000. Single-game tickets are on sale at the River Bandits box office at Modern Woodmen Park, by phone at 563-324-3000 and online at www.riverbandits.com. Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $50. Call a River Bandits account representative today to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

ABOUT THE BANDITS: The River Bandits ownership is making one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since the ballpark was first built back in 1931! A new Ferris wheel, standing 112 feet over the playing field, is planned for the ballpark, along with a new dual zip line, a carousel, a Mediacom Frog Hopper, new bounce houses and many other fun attractions. The team also boasts a new major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, and fans will see last year's No. 1 overall draft pick, Carlos Correa. The Astros will also make the very first selection in the major league draft on June 6 and could have another top pick end up in the Quad Cities. With new rides, new attractions, new improvements, a new affiliate and future major league stars, this season will be one every fan will not want to miss!

*****

Weekly Events Header
Hello!
Start your weekend off with some live outdoor music, refreshing drinks, and good company when River Music Experience kicks off Friday Live at 5! Sponsored by TAG Communications, this week's event features the Ellis Kell Band. On Saturday, RME gives you an excuse to wear your PJ's out of the house during their Dress Up and Dance Series: Pajama Jam! Enjoy contests, giveaways, and live music by Have Your Cake and The Candymakers.  Tonight, catch a great all female act visting from Austin, The Trishas.  On Wednesday, RME will host a phenomenal up and coming musician from St. Louis, Pokey Lafarge.
The Figge has activities for all crowds this weekend! Middle school students can explore the drawing of pop art during the Art in the Middle workshops. For the older crowd, enjoy fun studio art activities paired with a glass of wine and light hors d'oeuvres during Wine & Art tonight. There's even a chance to bond with the whole family by heading to the new Beyond the Classroom exhibit or participating in tonight's interactive Zumba Fitness class.
Awarding more than $50,000 each year in scholarships, the Miss Iowa Scholarship Program continues to be a great asset for the state.   Come show your support at the Adler Theatre this Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Also, don't forget that tickets for the July 13th  Grace Potter & the Nocturnals show are still on sale.  Get 'em while they last!
With June already here, Father's Day is right around the corner! In need of a unique way of celebrating the holiday? Join the Quad Cities River Bandits on Sunday, June 16th, as they host pre-game catch in the outfield and their second annual Father's Day Cookout on the Sky Deck! This day not only features an all-you-can-eat buffet, but giveaways and prizes, too. Reservations must be made by June 10.
Don't miss the FREE concerts along the Mississippi River this summer during Music on the Levee at LeClaire Park. Wind down this weekend to the tunes of Josh Duffee & His Graystone Monarchs while enjoying refreshments. Speaking of music in the park, keep your eyes open for this year's River Roots Live line-up that we'll be announcing June 13th! Like our brand new
River Roots Live Facebook Page and be the first to hear the news.
We're excited to announce a new retail business!  If you're looking for a sweet fix, stop by Chocolate Manor located at 110 E. 2nd St. across from the Radisson!  With treats like gourmet chocolates, cupcakes, toffee, and even GELATO, this local chocolate shop is sure to impress. While you're there, ask about their gift baskets, dessert bars, and catering options. Chocolate Manor is already open, but keep an eye out in upcoming newsletters for the date of their official grand opening.
See you downtown!
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This Week's Events: June 6 - June 12


Thursday, June 6

Backyard Blowout

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Competitor Coupon Craze

Where: Rhythm City Casino

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

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Five Course Wine Dinner

Where: Hotel Blackhawk, Bix Bistro

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Price: $65/person

Website

 

Kilkenny's Open Mic with Karl

Where: Kilkenny's Pub

Time: 9 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Live Lunch with Lars Rehnberg

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Miss Iowa Scholarship Program

Where: The Adler Theater

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Price: $42.60 and up

Website

 

Public Skate

Where: River's Edge

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.; 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Price: $5 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

 

The Trishas

Where: River Music Experience, Redstone Room

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

Price: $10

Website

 

Thursdays at the Figge

Where: Figge Art Museum

Time: 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

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

Wine & Art
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Price: $15/student; all supplies provided
Workshop: Given Space: Writing Your Own Cartography
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($7), or FREE with membership
Zumba Fitness
Where: Figge Art Museum
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Price: FREE
Friday, June 7

$1,500 FREEky Friday Giveaway

Where: Rhythm City Casino

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

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

Buddy Olson
Where: Rhythm City Casino
Time: 8:00 p.m. - Midnight
Price: FREE
Coach Reece Summer Hoops League
Where: Centennial Park
Time: 11:00 a.m.
The Figure Skating Club of the Quad Cities presents the 17th Annual Quad City Championships
Where: River's Edge
Friday Live at 5 featuring Ellis Kell Band sponsored by TAG Communications
Where: River Music Experience, RME Courtyard
Time: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Jacob Green
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Price: FREE
Live Lunch with The Rough & Tumble
Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Miss Iowa Scholarship Program
Where: The Adler Theater
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $42.60 and up
Saturday, June 8

 

Backyard Blowout

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

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

 

Coach Reece Summer Hoops League

Where: Centennial Park

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Website

 

Cynthia Haring CD Release Show

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Dallas Hendrix

Where: Barrel House 211

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

Price: FREE

Website

 

Dress Up and Dance: Pajama Jam featuring The Candymakers & Have Your Cake

Where: River Music Experience, Redstone Room

Time: 9:00 p.m.

Price: $5

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 Opens: Beyond the Classroom

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

 

The Figure Skating Club of the Quad Cities presents the 17th Annual Quad City Championships

Where: River's Edge

Website

 

Freight House Farmers Market

Where: Freight House Farmer's Market

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

Price: FREE

Website

Josh Duffee Orchestra
Where: Rhythm City Casino
Time: 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Price: FREE
Live Music: Kevin Boyd
Where: Freight House Farmer's Market
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Price: FREE

Midnight Multiplier

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: Midnight - 4:00 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

Miss Iowa Scholarship Program
Where: The Adler Theater
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $42.60 and up

Rock the Pit

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Price: FREE
Website

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Second Saturday

Where: Bucktown Center For the Arts

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Songwriter's All-Original Open Mic

Where: River Music Experience, Community Stage

Time :3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Workshop: Acrylic Painting- Pop Art

Where: Figge Art Museum

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

Price: $50/member; $60/non-member

Website

 

Sunday, June 9

 

$3,000 Sunday Shake Up Slot Tournament

Where: Rhythm City Casino

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

Price: FREE

Website

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Coach Reece Summer Hoops League
Where: Centennial Park
Time: 1:00 p.m.
The Figure Skating Club of the Quad Cities presents the 17th Annual Quad City Championships
Where: River's Edge

Midnight Multiplier

Where: Rhythm City Casino

Time: Midnight - 4:00 a.m.

Price: FREE

Website

Follow on Facebook and Twitter

 

Music on the Levee: Josh Duffee & His Graystone Monarchs Big Band

Where: LeClaire Park

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

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


The Legacy of Jens Jensen
Where: German American Heritage Center
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Price: Museum Admission ($5 or less), or FREE with membership

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, June 10

 

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

 

Public Skate

Where: River's Edge

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

Price: $5 and Up

Website

Tuesday, June 11


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


Open Jam Session

Where: Brady Street Pub

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Price: FREE

Website

 

Public Skate

Where: River's Edge, Ice

Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Price: $5 and up

Website

PELLA, (06/06/2013)(readMedia)-- The following local students graduated from Central College in December 2012.

Perry Harrah, of Davenport, graduated with a major in French and linguistics.

Hannah Seibel, of Eldridge, graduated with a major in sociology.

Tyler Wentworth, of Davenport, graduated with a major in business management.

Central College is a residential liberal arts college dedicated to the education of 1,500 undergraduate students. Guided by its ecumenical Christian tradition, the college community engages in vigorous, free, open inquiry in pursuit of academic excellence. Founded in 1853, the college is affiliated with the Reformed Church in America and NCAA Division III athletics.

Central is a recognized leader in study abroad as a result of its international, residential programs. Central College is located in Pella, Iowa, a thriving community of 10,000 two minutes from the state's largest lake and 40 minutes southwest of Des Moines. Please visit the college website at www.central.edu.

WELCOME

Tim Heim

Senior VP of  Sales & Marketing, Innkeeper Hospitality Services, LLP

&

Kristin McDaniel

Chief Marketing Executive, Royal Neighbors of America

 

They join current Board Members:

Frank Mitvalski, Board President, Califf & Harper

 

Jane Bahls, Secretary, Freelance Writer

 

Marty Kurtz, Treasurer, The Planning Center

 

Linda Bowers, LinguiSystems

 

Chad Ervin, US Bank

 

Suni Leinart, Vital Support Systems

 

Carol Ann Watkins, Arts Supporter

Farmers and those who advise farmers about crops will want to attend the annual spring field day for the Iowa State University Southeast Iowa Research Farm near Crawfordsville on June 27 beginning at 1:00 p.m. One of the features on the tour will be Virgil Schmitt's presentation on "Crop Weather Outlook & How New Weather Stations Will Benefit Iowa Farmers." Schmitt is an extension field agronomist with Iowa State University.

Also highlighted on the tour will be "Managing Nitrogen for Corn after a Rye Cover Crop" by John Sawyer, ISU Extension Agronomist - Soil Fertility; "Managing Glyphosate Tolerant Waterhemp in Soybeans" by Jim Fawcett, ISU Extension Field Agronomist; and "Crop Season Review" by Myron Rees, Farm Superintendent.

Certified Crop Advisor continuing education credits will be available for attending the event for a fee.  Those wishing to obtain additional CCA credits can come at 9:00 a.m. for a morning training session with a focus on soil and water management.  The credit fee for Certified Crop Advisors attending the morning session is $50.00 and includes lunch.  There is no fee for the afternoon tours.

A lunch will be available at noon for $5, followed by a demonstration on grain safety by the Washington County Health Department. Please register by June 25 for the morning CCA session and the noon lunch by calling the Johnson County Extension Office at 319-337-2145.

To reach the farm, follow U.S. Highway 218 one and three quarters miles south of Crawfordsville, then two miles east on county road G-62, then three quarters mile north.  Signs will be posted to guide you to the event.

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Every year is different and 2013 is not an exception to that rule.  The drought has broken, flooding is back, and the CSR ratings are being revised and will be called the CSR2 starting in October.  Change in agriculture is occurring at a record pace and landlords and tenants need to do their best to keep up with the changes.

Iowa State University (ISU) Extension is offering a Farmland Leasing workshop on Tuesday, August 6, 2013, starting at 9:00 a.m. at the Johnson County Extension Office at 3109 Old Highway 218 South in Iowa City.  Another workshop will also be offered on Wednesday, August 14, 2013, starting at 1:00 p.m. at Buzzy's at 414 Main Street in Welton.

Jim Jensen and Ryan Drollette, ISU Extension Farm Management Specialists, will be the presenters. According to Jensen & Drollette, "The 2013 Extension Cash Rental Survey is out and will be discussed as well as the profit potential for tenants." Are cash rents keeping up with land values that have increased over 100% in the past six years?

Jensen & Drollette will be discussing land values, leasing practices, and lead an interactive discussion on methods to calculate cash rent.   Jensen stated, "The most frequent stumbling block for setting a cash rental rate is determining the land quality of the farm.  Rents on various quality soils and ways to determine land quality will be discussed. Land values and cash rental rates for various grades of land have not increased at the same percentage rate.  

The Farmland Leasing workshop cost is $25 per person and includes the 2013 Farm Leasing Arrangement booklet and copies of the presentation. To pre-register call the Johnson County Extension Office at 319-337-2145 or the Clinton County Extension office at 563-659-5125.

Registration cost can be paid at the door approximately 30 minutes before the workshop begins.

For those that pre-register 1 business day prior to or at the meeting, a $5 late registration fee will be added.

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WASHINGTON - Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa is asking the Social Security Administration to account for promised plans to reduce billions of dollars in improper Social Security payments each year.  The improper payment rate for the last fiscal year was $7.9 billion.

"Improper payments cost the taxpayers billions of dollars a year and strain the system for those who rely on the benefits," Grassley said.  "The government has to take concrete steps to fight the problem, especially when it knows the payments could be improper and fails to stop them."

In a letter to the Social Security Administration, Grassley cited inspector general and agency statistics that show the Continuing Disability Review and redetermination processes are the most important program integrity tools available to the agency, yet the agency has a backlog of those reviews or fails to conduct them as needed.  Also, the Department of Justice has not prosecuted improper payment cases because the Social Security Administration in some cases is allowing the payments to continue, despite possessing information that should trigger a review.

"Those who perpetrate fraud against the government should be stopped and prosecuted," Grassley said.  "If the Social Security Administration knows payments are improper and doesn't stop them, that's a basic management failure.  Allowing fraud sends the wrong message that crime pays."

The text of Grassley's letter is available here.

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