23 Apr 2013

Tom Harkin Endorses Braley for Senate

By Jeff Link
DES MOINES, IA - Senator Tom Harkin has endorsed Rep. Bruce Braley in his 2014 campaign for U.S. Senate.  Harkin joined Braley to make the endorsement official at an event at the Hotel Fort Des Moines this afternoon.
Harkin said, "When I was campaigning for Bruce during his first run for Congress in 2006, I knew he was the real thing: a passionate progressive, a natural-born leader. He is someone from humble roots, who in the time he has been in Congress, has fought for working people and the struggling middle class.  Bruce Braley has already proved his skill at fighting for the people of Iowa.  That is why, today, I am proud to endorse him in his campaign for U.S. Senate."
Braley said, "It's an honor to be endorsed by my friend and mentor, Tom Harkin. For more than four decades, Senator Harkin has stood for integrity, principle, and a commitment to fight for those who can't speak for themselves. Tom has always said that America is strongest when we create opportunity, lift people up, and empower them to live the American dream. I'm running for the Senate to continue that fight because I care deeply about the future of Iowa."
In January, Harkin announced that he was retiring from the Senate when his current term ends. Two weeks later, Braley announced that he had formed a campaign committee to run for the open seat.
Tom Harkin, a native of Cumming, Iowa, born to a coal miner father and a Slovenian immigrant mother, grew up working hard. After graduating from Iowa State University, which he attended on a Navy ROTC scholarship, Harkin joined the Navy where he served as a jet pilot. Harkin was elected to the US House in 1974; in 1984, Harkin was elected to the Senate. For over 40 years, Harkin has worked tirelessly for Iowa, championing policies that strengthen the middle class, protect the rights of Americans with disabilities, and expand economic security and opportunity for everyone.
Braley has received a wave of endorsements in recent weeks, capped off by today's announcement. In February, Rep. Dave Loebsack (IA-02) and former Rep. Leonard Boswell announced their endorsement; in March, Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and Treasurer Michael Fitzgerald endorsed; on April 3rd, 71 Iowa legislators announced their endorsement of Braley. Eleven Iowa labor organizations have also endorsed Braley.
On Monday, Braley reported he had raised $1.07 million for his Senate campaign and has over $1 million cash on hand as of March 30th. Iowans from all 99 counties have contributed to Braley for Iowa.
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23 Apr 2013

Loebsack Statement on the Capture of the Boston Bombing Suspect

By Vonnie Hampel

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack released the following statement this evening after the suspect in the Boston bombing was captured.

"I am relieved that the tragic events, which have terrorized Boston and the nation over the past five days, seem to have come to an end this evening.  The work of the first responders, law enforcement officials and the National Guard has been truly heroic. Now that the suspect has been captured, he must face the full force of our judicial system."

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23 Apr 2013

GAY CHRISTIAN SINGER TO PERFORM IN ROCK ISLAND AND MOLINE WITH A MESSAGE OF INCLUSION

By Rev. Richard Hendricks
At 6 feet and 5 inches tall, Shawn Thomas stands out in virtually any crowd, but there are several things that
make him unique among Christian recording artists. He writes and records his own songs, he tours at no cost, and his ministry includes an outreach to the GLBT community.

Thomas, a Florida-based singer-songwriter with ten solo CDs to his credit, will visit MCC of the Quad Cities in
Rock Island to deliver his message of inclusion at 11am on Sunday, May 5th as part of morning worship, and
again that evening with a full concert benefitting the church at Fargo Lounge in Moline at 5pm.

A four-time Pride in the Arts Awards recipient from The Stonewall Society and fourteen-time nominee, Shawn
Thomas' newest musical effort is a praise and worship collection of original songs called, "Voice of Worship."
The lyrics for each song on the project are based on one or more texts from Old and New Testament scripture.
He explains, "In the past few years there've been a few choices I've made in expressing myself a little more
openly that have brought on a bit of (for lack of a better word) 'controversy' to what I was doing - whether it
be from the Christian community or the GLBT community. I realized as a result, focus was being taken away
from the grace message that is what I truly hope to be able share; So, I thought for this project, why not go
directly to scripture and let that be the lyric and completely take my 'voice' out of it."

On December 19, 2012, Shawn Thomas was officially inducted in to the GLBT Hall of Fame. According to the
press release posted on the Hall of Fame website, he was approved for membership based on: "...the work
Shawn Thomas has done to provide a positive and healing atmosphere for today's GLBT Christian... [including building] bridges of understanding and acceptance for the GLBT community within the non-GLBT Christian community... [and highlighting] the negatives thrust onto out GLBT Christians by the GLBT community."

With a minister as a father and a talented musician as his mother, Shawn's ministry is the natural combination
of his musical and spiritual influences. A member of the Grammy Recording Academy, Shawn Thomas emerges not only as an outstanding performer and singer, but as a dynamic and versatile worship leader and presenter His intention is to share the message of God's of love and grace through music in order to build unity, understanding, and acceptance while still encouraging personal responsibility, self-reliance, and the
development of conviction and values.

"Voice of Worship" and other CD releases are available for sale on popular internet sites including iTunes.com
and Amazon.com, and is distributed by Aaron's Rainbow Project and Shawn Thomas Studios, West Palm Beach, FL. For more information about Shawn Thomas and his ministry, visit www.shawnthomasonline.com and www.aaronsrainbowproject.com.

MCC of the Quad Cities is currently worshipping at the TriCity Jewish Center, 2715 30th St., Rock Island, and
the Fargo Lounge is located at 4204 Ave. of the Cities in Moline. The Benefit Concert is part of a chili cook-off
beginning at 4:30pm. For more information, contact the church at 563-324-8281.
23 Apr 2013

MCC QC ANNOUNCES ANNUAL CHILI COOKOFF FUNDRAISER TO BE HELD AT FARGO LOUNGE SUNDAY MAY 5TH AT 5 PM

By Rev. Richard Hendricks
Iowa/Illinois Quad Cities - Metropolitan Community Church of the Quad Cities ("MCC QC") is a spiritual home for many that is currently without a home. "We sold our facility on Harrison Street and we are currently looking for the right building," says the pastor, Rev. Rich Hendricks. MCC QC is currently holding its 11:00 a.m. worship services at the TriCity Jewish Center. "In the meantime," says Hendricks, "we are still growing and seeking financial support for our ministries." The annual chili cookoff is the church's biggest fundraiser. This year the event is being held at Fargo Lounge in Moline and the public is invited to come and enjoy all you can eat chili and fixings and homemade desserts for just $5.

In addition, there is no cost to enter your chili in the contest, which is judged by three independent judges not affiliated with MCC QC. The church offers $100 for first place, $50 for second place and $25 for third place. Mary Todtz, event organizer, says, "I am really excited about all the items we have for sale, about all the fun we are going to have and about the excellent entertainment!"

There will be both silent and live auction items available for purchase, including everything from free oil changes to works of art. Entertainment this year is a free will offering concert by Christian artist Shawn Thomas.

MCC QC is a member church of Churches United of the Quad Cities Area and the Church is involved in feeding the hungry ministries and supporting the works of many area nonprofit organizations.

The annual Chili Cook-Off will be held on Sunday, May 5h beginning at 5 p.m. at Fargo Lounge, 4204 Avenue of the Cities, Moline, Illinois. Doors open at 4:30 and all entries must arrive by 5:00 p.m. to be included as the chili judging takes place promptly at 5:15 p.m., followed by a time of feasting and fellowship during which people can bid on silent auction items. At the close of the silent auction will be a live auction, featuring several special items.

For more information, please call the Church office at 563.324.8281.

MCC QC: tearing down walls & building up hope!
22 Apr 2013

Rock Island Library Line April 22

By Lisa Lockheart
Money Snart Shred Day is Thurs, April 25

Money Smart Week logo 2013 Have some personal documents you want securely shredded?

 

Bring them to the Rock Island Library Community Shred Day, Thursday, April 25. The drive-up and drop-off event is outside the Main Library downtown, 401 19th Street, along the south (alley) side of the library. Drop off items from 3:30 to 5:30 pm with representatives of Document Destruction & Recycling Services, a certified shredder. Items will be shredded in bulk at the monitored DDRS plant in Davenport. The service is free and open to anyone.
Celebrate Shakespeare's Birthday With Us!

The commonly accepted birthday for William Shakespeare is Willam Shakespeare with birthday hat April 23, but we're hedging our bets by celebrating twice! Join us for two fascinating programs next week on works of the great Bard:

 

Who is Macbeth? Tuesday, April 23, 6:30 pm, Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street. Don Wooten and the Genesius Guild celebrate the bard's birthday with a look at this fascinatingly complex character and play.Who was MacBeth really? What do we know about him?

 

Shakespeare's The Tempest: Thursday, April 25, 6:30 pm, Rock Island Main Library. Believed to be the last play Shakespeare wrote alone, The Tempest continues to fascinate actors and audiences. Find out why, as we watch a scene presented by Rockridge High School actors, followed by a discussion from the Prenzie Players.
More for May

Foreign Letters cover low resolution Independent Movie. Foreign Letters: Thursday, May 2 at 6:00 pm, Main Library. Ellie, a 12-year-old immigrant girl from Israel, is lonely and homesick. Life brightens when she meets Thuy, a Vietnamese refugee her age. Based on the filmmaker's own experience, Foreign Letters is a story about prejudice, poverty, shame, and the power of friendship to heal us. Movie is in English, Hebrew, and Vietnamese with English subtitles.

 

Also on May 2 - Monthly half-price Friends book sale at 30/31. Sale open during library hours, 9 am to closing time. Display of quilts also opens at Main Library art gallery.

 

Bike Touring and Book Writing, Monday, May 13, 6:30 to 7:30 pm, Rock Island Main Library - 401 - 19th Street. Chuck Oestreich will informally discuss his novel, "Bicycle Moon," and lead a discussion about practical tips for touring on a bike.

 

Andersonville of the North? Rock Island Civil War Prison film/discussion: 6:30 pm, Thursday, May 23. Heritage Documentaries screens a 33 minute on the Rock Island Civil War prison camp on Arsenal Island, with discussion afterward by members of Heritage Documentaries, who made the film.

 
America's Music Rocks the House May 7 and  9
  • America';s Music Logo GraphicMaybe you remember that electric moment when Bob Dylan amped up his guitar, maybe you don't. But the history of classic rock is filled with game-changing moments, some of which we'll explore at our May "America's Music" programs at the Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street:  
    • Rock 'n' Roll film and discussion:5:30-7:30 pm, Tuesday, May 7. Film: History of Rock n' Roll: Plugging In.
    • Rock Music Performance, featuring Meet the Press. 6:00 pm, Thursday, May 9. First formed in 1984 with Robbie Bahr, John Resch, Dan Allen and Steve Law, Meet the Press reformed in 2012 with Bahr, Resch and Law. The band had local radio hits in 1985 and 1986, and toured with Edgar Winter, Foghat and Head Start.

America's Music is a grant-funded series of film viewings, discussions and performance events at Rock Island, Moline, Bettendorf and Davenport Public Libraries, River Music Experience and Western Illinois University-Quad Cities. For more events in the series, or to add your own musical memories to the Quad Cities Music oral history project,  visit www.americasmusicqc.com
PrairieState Legal Services at Main Twice a Week

A new awareness service from Prairie State Legal Services is available twice a week at the Main Library, 401 19th Street.

 

Trained volunteers from Prairie State Legal Services will be available from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays on the 2nd floor to offer information and assistance with navigating public benefits for food, cash, medical assistance, disability and township assistance.

Prairie State Legal Services volunteers cannot offer legal advice.

 
Last International Storytime Next Week

Quetzacoatl imageStart your family's Saturday off right with tales from around the world for the whole family!

 

Each of the short storytimes start at 10:00 am, and include a fun activity:

 

Saturday, April 27: Main Library Children's Room
22 Apr 2013

CONSERVATION COUNTS ON EARTH DAY AND EVERY DAY FOR IOWA FARMERS

By Laurie Johns

Virtual Tours Show Progress of Iowa Farmers

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA - April 19, 2013 - Iowans can see how today's farmers are always seeking new ways to protect the land and water, while providing a wide array of food choices for consumers, by taking virtual farm tours.  Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) is launching 'Conservation Counts' (www.iowafarmbureau.com/conservationcounts), an online resource where consumers can see how farmers use conservation practices on their farm and the progress that statewide voluntary measures have brought in the last 30 years.  The Conservation Counts website goes live April 22nd, the 43rd observance of national Earth Day.

"Conservation methods are different on every farm because the terrain is different, the soils are different and the crops we grow are diverse.  So when it comes to conservation, forcing a one-size-fits-all approach would be a detriment to the progress we need to make in protecting the land and water," said IFBF President Craig Hill.

"Today's responsible farmers are always looking for new ways to help them not only maintain but improve the integrity of their land and watersheds.  Some farmers plant trees (http://www.supportfarmers.com/Programs/gfpp/case-studies ) through the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmer's Green Farmstead Partner Program; many more farmers plant grassy buffer strips to protect streams; some use no-till methods or cover crops, or terraces to hold nutrients and reduce erosion.  On my farm, I use precision agriculture where I spoon feed plants nutrients/fertilizer at the right time, right place and right amount so they get only what they need which is better for the plant and the environment. And, there are also innovations in seeds and equipment which help today's farmers use less fertilizer," said Hill.  "Progress and new ideas are what it takes to meet our nation's food needs, while protecting the land.  One in six jobs in this state are tied to agriculture.  By 2050, it's estimated the global population will be over 9 billion, which requires 100 percent more food than we're growing today.  The Nutrient Reduction Strategy (http://www.nut\rientstrategy.iastate.edu/ ) shows farmers all the options they can use on their farms to get us there."

Voluntary conservation measures have brought progress.  In the last 30 years, soil erosion in the U.S. has been reduced by 43 percent, according to the USDA's National Resources Inventory report.  Iowa's erosion rate was down 33 percent, thanks to a combination of practices being put in place, such as buffer strips, terraces, no-till, cover crops, restoring wetlands, installing bio-filters and grassy waterways in fields.  Today's responsible farmers continue to search for new ways to protect the land and watershed; seven major conservation practices used on Iowa farms are estimated to remove as much as 28 percent of the nitrate, 38 percent of the total nitrogen, and up to 58 percent of the phosphorus that otherwise would be present, according to the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development's Conservation Practices in Iowa: Historical Investments, Water Quality and Gaps.

"Farming is never a one-year proposition. It's something we do over time and we are continually learning.  It's never static; you always want to be getting as much information as you can, and then putting it to work on your farm," said Ankeny farmer, Mark Kenney, who uses no-till, has restored grasslands on his farm and this year is taking more land out of production to plant new grassy buffer strips to reduce erosion on his Nevada-area farmland.

Learn more about how today's responsible farmers embrace new conservation methods by checking out 'Conservation Counts' at www.iowafarmbureau.com/conservationcounts or follow them on Facebook at IowaFarmBureau or Twitter at (#ConservationCounts13).

-30-

About Iowa Farm Bureau

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is a grassroots, statewide organization dedicated to helping farm families prosper and improve their quality of life.  More than 153,000 families in Iowa are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve economic growth, educational improvement, and environmental quality in their communities.  For more information about Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit the online media center at www.iowafarmbureau.com.

22 Apr 2013

Carol Ehlers speaking at the Muscatine Art Center

By Lynn Bartenhagen
APRIL 22, 2013

The public is invited to join the Muscatine Art Center in welcoming Carol Ehlers, art history speaker, as she presents a 45 minute lecture on the art of French Neo-Impressionist Paul Signac. The lecture will take place Thursday, April 25 at 5:30 pm in the Muscatine Art Center's Music Room. Admission is free.

Paul Signac was born in Paris on November 11, 1863 to a well to do family and grew up in the cultural district of Montmartre. By the age of 18, Signac studied architecture before deciding to pursue a career as a painter after attending an exhibit of Claude Monet's work. He chose to be an Impressionist painter because of his liking for Monet, the outdoors, originality, and independence.  He had no formal art instruction but devoted himself to the study of the works of Manet, Monet, Degas, and Caillebotte.

In 1884 Signac met Georges Seurat at the first Société des Artistes Indépendants and was struck by Seurat's meticulous methods. By 1885, under Seurat's influence, he abandoned the short brushstrokes of impressionism to experiment with scientifically juxtaposed small dots of pure color based on the laws of color theory established by the chemist Eugène Chevreul. These dots were intended to combine and in the viewer's eye, the defining feature of pointillism, a branch of Neo-Impressionism that Seurat and Signac successfully coined.

By 1892, he moved from Paris to St Tropez, and he was painting almost entirely in his studio from sketches and watercolors originally made in front of the scenes he found in the course of his travels. As an avid sailor, he went on a number of cruises, which took him to various ports in France, Italy, Holland and Constantinople.

Signac was president of the Société des Artistes Indépendants from 1908 until his death at age seventy-two in 1935. He encouraged the next generation of young artists by exhibiting their controversial works. He inspired Henri Matisse and André Derain in particular, thus playing a decisive role in the evolution of the Fauvist movement.

In 1992 the Muscatine Art Center's collections were significantly enriched by a gift of twenty-seven works of art by Toulouse-Lautrec, Matisse, Degas, Boudin, Chagall, Renoir, and other European artists. The collection was a gift from the estate of Mary Musser Gilmore in honor of her parents, Richard Drew Musser and Sarah Walker Musser. The paintings are on permanent display in the Laura Musser Mansion.

 

EVENT DETAILS:

Lecture: Paul Signac: Scientific Theory and Pointillism

Who: Carol Ehlers

When: Thursday, April 25 2013

Time: 5:30 PM

Where: The Muscatine Art Center's Music Room

Admission to this program is FREE.

 

Please contact Katy Doherty, Program Coordinator, with any questions or concerns at

563-263-8282 or by email at kdoherty@muscatineiowa.gov.

 

The Muscatine Art Center is open to the public Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 PM Admission is FREE.

22 Apr 2013

BANDITS ADDING AMUSEMENT RIDES FOR 2013!

By Marco LaNave

New rides planned include a Ferris wheel, dual zip line, carousel, Frog Hopper and 4-D Ride Theater

DAVENPORT, Iowa (APRIL 19, 2013) - The Modern Woodmen Park experience is about family-friendly fun, and this season Main Street Amusements is enhancing the ballpark to a whole new level. The Quad Cities River Bandits are set to become the first team in Minor League Baseball to bring a Ferris wheel inside its ballpark. But they are not stopping there. The River Bandits will also be adding a dual zip line, a carousel, a Mediacom Frog Hopper and, if the team receives approval from the Davenport Levee Commission, a 4-D Ride Theater. The team will also be adding four new bounce houses and a new 25-foot tall rock climbing wall as part of its Jumpin' Joey's Children's Play Area. In the process, they will become the first minor league team to open its home seven days a week - both game days and non-game days - during the season for the public to enjoy the new attractions.

Main Street Amusements is working with the City of Davenport and multiple amusement ride companies on the aforementioned projects, all of which will debut at the ballpark this summer.

"We are always looking for creative  ways that families can enjoy affordable family fun and make memorable experiences at our ballpark, and the new amusement rides will be fantastic, unique, and affordable entertainment for the entire community to enjoy every night of the week," said River Bandits owner and Main Street Amusements president Dave Heller. "All of these great attractions will highlight the ballpark and the Quad Cities as a one-of-a-kind destination for inexpensive family fun!"

The Ferris wheel from Chance Rides will tower to 112 feet above the playing field and be located beyond the left-field fence atop the berm. It will be entirely inside the ballpark and connected to the berm by a new boardwalk. Its opening is planned for late June, though flooding in Davenport could push the date back.

"We are ecstatic about partnering with the River Bandits and Main Street Amusements to make Modern Woodmen Park the first ballpark to create such a huge amusement experience," said Chance Rides president Mike Chance. "We have enjoyed working with Dave Heller and his outstanding team, and we share their vision of bringing more unique and affordable family-friendly fun to the Quad Cities."

Main Street Amusements is planning to have the pair of zip lines, the Fly Wire®, in different locations on game days and non-game days. Game days will feature the Fly Wire® zip lines outside the ballpark, while the non-game days will give riders the incredible experience of gliding over the playing field at Modern Woodmen Park. The zip lines come from California-based Extreme Engineering, the world's largest supplier in award-winning zip lines, climbing walls and adventure products to the entertainment industry.

"The Fly Wire® zip lines are going to not only provide additional thrills at the ballpark, but a great view of the baseball field," said Matt Rehnstrom, sales account manager for Extreme Engineering. "The zip lines will be a great promotional vehicle and exciting attraction for the fans in the Quad Cities."

The carousel will be located in the right-field corner of the ballpark. The Frog Hopper will come to the ballpark in May and be located inside the Jumpin' Joey's Children's Play area next to the Party Plaza along the right-field line, next to a new 25-foot-tall rock-climbing wall.

With a colorful and kid-friendly design, the Frog Hopper, sponsored by Mediacom, bounces up to seven riders comfortably along a tower as they sit in a row looking over the playing field for a one-of-a-kind view of the stadium as they "hop alongside" the Mississippi River. The Frog Hopper is an amusement ride from manufacturer S & S Worldwide, Inc. (www.engineeringexcitement.com), which has more than 400 rides in 30 countries around the world.

"S&S Worldwide is excited for our joint venture with the River Bandits and Main Street Amusements to combine amusement rides and baseball with the addition of a Frog Hopper to Modern Woodmen Park," said Toby Garcia, North American Sales Representative for S&S Worldwide/Sansei Technologies. "With more than 250 Frog Hoppers worldwide, this ride is a family favorite that will delight kids in the Quad Cities and across the region."

The River Bandits are also partnering with SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment to bring a 4-D Ride Theater to the ballpark, pending Levee Commission approval. A 4-D Theater shows short (5-6 minute) films with 3-D visual effects and the added thrills of the physical experience, such as seat movement and an added sense of smell and touch. The planned 4-D Experience at Modern Woodmen Park will feature several motion-based films in high-definition 3-D with added in-theater special effects.  Join Speed Racer (SPEED RACER MOVIE: © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. SPEED RACER:® Speed Racer Enterprises, Inc. (s13)) on a six-minute, full-throttle adventure as you hurtle down the track, careening around, over and through the competition in Speed Racer Grand Prix.  The 4-D Ride Theater will also include Dino Island - one of SimEx-Iwerks' top performing ride films and Pirates Rapids, a seemingly harmless water slide adventure that quickly takes a turn for the worst as you are whisked away to a land of pirates.

SimEx-Iwerks is the leading innovator of immersive 3-D and 4-D Attractions and the exclusive distributor of the industry's best selling film titles. The company supports over 150 family-friendly attractions in more than 30 countries. Its attractions entertain and educate over 80 million people every year? bringing a whole new dimension to the guest experience.

"We are excited to open this popular attraction at Modern Woodmen Park - the first ballpark in the country to offer multiple amusement rides," said Mark Cornell, Senior Vice President, Attractions Development.  "We have chosen our opening lineup carefully and these titles offer something for everyone."

The amusement rides will complement the largest set of promotions in the history of the Quad Cities franchise.

"As the River Bandits spring into a new season, we are eager to share the new amusements and all of the family-friendly entertainment our fans will experience at Modern Woodmen Park this year," said General Manager Harold Craw. "We can't wait to see fans enjoying the new rides and another memorable summer at the ballpark."

UP NEXT: Tickets for the 2013 season are now on sale! Call 563-324-3000 or visit www.riverbandits.com. It's not too late lock in your season ticket plan for the 2013 season! Season ticket and mini-plan packages start at just seven games and begin at less than $50. Call a River Bandits account representative today at 563-324-3000 to choose your seats and get the details of our various mini-plan packages.

22 Apr 2013

LeCLAIRE CHAMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS - Friday 04/19/2013

By LeClaire Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME NEW MEMBER!

Staged Right Photography, LLC - Roger Anderson, 22760 282nd Avenue,  Le Claire, Iowa  52753, 563-468-7536. stagedrightphoto@gmail.com -  www.srp-leclaire.smugmug.com Staged Right Photography, LLC provides photography services for events, portraits, weddings, commercial projects, and special projects.

CALENDAR

April 26th - The Crane & Pelican Cafe presents Dinner and Music featuring "Quartrio" View menu and details at www.craneandpelican.com

 

May 1st - All Ages Spelling Bee at the LeClaire Community Library. Registration and details at the front desk. www.leclairelibrary.org

 

May 3rd - First Friday, 5:00 - 8:00pm, Downtown LeClaire.

Food and Beverage Samples at Mississippi River Distilling Company www.mrdistilling.com 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Wide River Winery www.wideriverwinery.com Kentucky Derby theme-hat parade, samples of wine mint juleps paired with appetizers from Crane & Pelican

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

Aunt Hattie's will have red velvet cupcakes!

Restaurants and several other shops will be open late, too!

May 3rd - Expressions in Threads - "Civil War Quilts Lecture and Luncheon with Becki Wright". Becky Wright of Mount Pleasant, IA, quilter, designer, owner of Orphans of War patterns.  Her love of the Civil War Era has led her to reseach and share her knowledge of this time in our country's history. She will give 2 lectures, the first starting at 11 am on Friday May 3rd at the Holiday Inn, Leclaire, Ia. Her first lecture is "The Importance of Civil War Quilts and Textiles". Starting with the facts of the history of textiles and sewing in the 1800's, she leads the audience to the beginning of the Civil War, how the textile industry was affected and the role it played in the war. At noon, lunch will be served by Big Dave and Holly's of Leclaire. After lunch, we will resume with the second lecture, "Christain Staffinger: A Soldier and His Quilts." This lecture tells the story of a young soldier who went to war and the quilts in his life. Lecture and Lunch- $45; www.expressionsinthreads.com Seating is limited, so don't delay. Call the shop or send a a check to insure your spot. www.expressionsinthreads.com Phone: 563-289-1447Phone: 563-289-1447

May 4th - Expressions in Threads -  Workshop - "Hardtack & Coffee" Becky Wright, quilter, designer, and owner of Orphans of War patterns, will present a workshop titled "Hardtack and Coffee" using her pattern by the same name. The workshop will be held at the Holiday Inn in Leclaire, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The $50 cost includes the pattern. Kits will also be available from Expressions in Threads. Seating is limited, so don't delay. Call the shop or send a a check to insure your spot. www.expressionsinthreads.com Phone: 563-289-1447

May 4th - Trivia Night at the LeClaire Civic Center benefiting the LeClaire Lions 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!

May 5th - Cinco de Mayo in LeClaire Details Pending

May 12th - Mothers Day Brunch at the Bier Stube. 1001 Canal Shore Dr., LeClaire. Seating's begin on the hour. Price $13.99 for buffet or $19.99 per person with unlimited Bloody Mary's and Mimosas. 563-289-2121

May 12th - The Blackwatch Room Mother's Day Brunch 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Chef Beau will be offering a huge Holiday Brunch including his famous creme brulee french toast and personalized omelettes. Pork Tenderloin with cornbread stuffing, chopped salad and our homemade desserts and danishes plus much more.  Brunch is $21.00 for adults and $10.00 for children under ten.  First seating is at 9:00 a.m.  Please make your reservations early as seating is very limited and fills up quickly.  Please call Kelle at 563-332-5072 or email kelle@theblackwatchroom.com

May 14th - Chamber Networking Event - Great River Financial - after hours.

May 17th-18th - French Market Days, 10:00am - 4:00pm LeClaire Passport Collecting - Pick up a LeClaire Passport from participating stores and the LeClaire Information Center. Each store will offer a different French stamp. A completed passport will qualify for one entry for a free drawing at the LeClaire Information Center (122 North Cody Road). Shoppers can collect stamps May 17th and 18th only. Other activities include a Jewelry Making Class, Wine Garden Event, Terrarium Class, Afternoon Tea, Glass Garden Crafts, Fashion Plate Pet Contest, Rue de Marche - Vendors on the Alley - furniture, crafters, antiques, Tour de LeClaire - Big Wheel races, Special Exhibit about Antoine LeClaire at the Buffalo Bill Museum, Parasol Art Contest, Plant Exchange, Library Book Sale, Build the Eiffel Tower and Market Bag Classes at Reusable Usables Creative Arts Center, and much more! *Activities subject to Change.

May 20th - Economic Development Meeting - Great River Financial - 8 a.m.

 

Save the Date

June 16th - Asbury Methodist Church "WORSHIP IN THE PARK" and  Potluck Service 10:30 a.m. It will be held at Veterans Memorial Park, 1645 23rd Street, Bettendorf. More details will be available soon.

 

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!

 

FYI

Wide River Winery now open in their new location! On March 27, we opened the new tasting room in LeClaire, IA. After months of construction and renovation, the new room is transformed. We are located at 106 N. Cody Rd. (Hwy 67), a few blocks from Antique Archaeology, home of the American Pickers. Thank you to all of our neighbors and friends in LeClaire and to all of our loyal customers for the warm reception and continued support. Coming soon, the new wine garden. Whatever the occasion Wide River Winery is the perfect place to enjoy your special day. Bridal showers, birthday parties, graduation, Mother's Day and Father's Day - everybody has fun at the winery! Contact Martha O'Brien for details widerivermartha@gmail.com

 

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! The Buffalo Bill Museum offers admission discounts for group tours!   School groups, 4-H, fraternal and civic clubs, family reunions, etc. Call 563-289-4603 for more information and schedule a guided tour! Reservations are required and can be made months in advance!

"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!

May 14 - Great River Financial - after hours

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 - Faithful Pilot - after hours -5-8pm

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:

May 4 - LeClaire Lions

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.

May 5th - Cinco de Mayo

May 17th-18th French Market Days

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!

22 Apr 2013

Loebsack to Speak at Quad City Habitat for Humanity 20th Anniversary Celebration

By Rick Martin

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack announced that he will speak at a house dedication and ceremony to honor the 20th anniversary of the Quad City Habitat for Humanity in Davenport, TOMORROW, April 20th.  Loebsack will join Habitat leaders and local officials at a house dedication and then at a ceremony.

 

Quad City Habitat for Humanity 20th Anniversary Celebration

 

House dedication

1229 West 8th Street

Davenport

10:00am

 

20th Anniversary Ceremony

Zion Lutheran Church

1216 West 8th Street

Davenport

Around 10:45am (immediately following the dedication)

 

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