25 Sep 2012

Morthland Calls on Governor to Take Action on Medicaid Reform

By Rep. Rich Morthland

Moline, IL... State Representative Rich Morthland (R-Cordova) is encouraging residents to join him by signing an online petition that calls on the Governor to implement, without delay, the bi-partisan Medicaid reform package enacted earlier this year. One of the key components of the SMART Act is increased scrutiny of Medicaid eligibility standards.

"Previous and current administrations have failed to take the necessary steps to remove people from the Medicaid program who may have enrolled when eligible, and then became ineligible for various reasons such as finding a job, an increased household income, or the aging out of a child," explained Morthland. "By removing these individuals who no longer qualify from the rolls, it is estimated to save taxpayers hundreds of millions."

The reform package contains tight timeframes for the procurement of an eligibility verification vendor. While the initial requirements have been met, it was revealed last week that the contracted vendor, Maximus Health Services, does not anticipate starting the reviews until January 2013.

"The entire Fiscal Year 13 budget framework relies on the timely and efficient implementation of the reforms. The selected vendor has previous experience that would allow for an expedited timeframe.  If eligibility verification is delayed a full six months into FY13, funding will be jeopardized to those in our community who truly need it."

Morthland is encouraging residents to visit http://morthland.ilhousegop.org/save-state-350-million-by-implementing-medicaid/ today and sign the petition urging Governor Quinn to end the delay.

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25 Sep 2012

In Iowa's Interest: Taking Action to End Hunger

By Rick Martin
By Senator Tom Harkin

Iowa is the world's breadbasket, yet surprisingly, food insecurity is a problem that affects one out of every eight people living in our state.  And Iowa is not alone; according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture some 50 million people living in the U.S. face hunger.

September is Hunger Action Month -- designed to bring awareness to widespread hunger in America and a good time to volunteer your time in the local community to help end hunger.   The Food Bank of Iowa has teamed up with Feeding America for "30 Ways in 30 Days" - a calendar of ideas for one good deed a day to help solve this pressing problem.   Any one of the "30 Ways" is an opportunity for us to make a difference in the lives of Iowans who face hunger - including the one in five children across the state, at risk of not having enough to eat.

While all of these ideas are things we can do on our own, there are plenty of ways to get involved with a group as well.  Donating excess food from your community garden, or including your employer's donation match form along with your contribution to your local pantry, food bank, or shelter are small actions that can go a long way toward helping your neighbors put food on their tables.  If you are a business owner, make sure to sign up your business to be a part of the 2012 Combat Hunger food drive November 15th and 16th in Des Moines.

You can start with simple things like wearing orange in honor of Hunger Action Month, reading a book about hunger to bring awareness to this national crisis, volunteering at your local shelter or soup kitchen, or trying to feed your entire family for a day on only$7 - the average daily food stamp benefit for a family.

As the former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, I have been fortunate enough to lead the efforts to enact the 2002 and 2008 farm bills. These bills and other initiatives expanded food support to millions of Americas by ensuring access to nutrition programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, school meals, child and adult food programs, and food assistance for disaster relief. I am extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish, but our work is far from over.

As Iowans, we have a unique gift to come together and support each other. Hunger Action Month presents the perfect opportunity to do just that.  So look up your closest food bank and see how you can help, or go online to foodbankiowa.org to check out the "30 Ways in 30 Days" calendar to help stop hunger now.

A PDF version of this article can be found here.

25 Sep 2012

Governor Quinn Announces Major Education Partnerships Between Illinois and Brazil

By Erin Wilson

State Initiative Links Private Sector, Higher Ed Community to Provide $155,000 in Scholarships, Internships to Brazilian Students Studying in Illinois

BRASILIA, BRAZIL - September 25, 2012. Continuing his economic trade mission to Brazil, Governor Pat Quinn today announced a new initiative that will help increase educational opportunities between Illinois and Brazil, attract more Brazilian students to the state, and promote Illinois' colleges and universities as global leaders in education. Under the initiative, Illinois-based companies will provide tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships as well as internships to Brazilian students studying in Illinois.

Today's announcement builds on Governor Quinn's commitment to strengthen education in Illinois, and supports President Obama's "100,000 Strong in the Americas" goal, an initiative to increase study between Latin America and the Caribbean and the United States.

"As one of the world's largest economies, Brazil is an important partner for Illinois as we expand our relationships overseas and boost our global competitiveness," Governor Quinn said. "The agreements we're announcing today will strengthen our commercial ties, increase tourism and build a pipeline of educated, skilled workers who are better prepared for a 21st century global economy."

Illinois-based companies including the Motorola Solutions Foundation and Ingredion Inc. (formerly Corn Products) will donate $155,000 in scholarship funds to support undergraduate students attending Illinois schools for the upcoming 2013-2014 school year through the Science Without Borders Program. In addition, Tate & Lyle will provide internships to two Brazilian students at its Illinois facility.

"As the philanthropic arm of a global company, the Motorola Solutions Foundation is proud to partner with Governor Quinn to support the next generation of science and engineering professionals in Brazil," said Matt Blakely, director, Motorola Solutions Foundation. "We look forward to meeting the scholars and seeing all they will accomplish."

Illinois already has 91 students from Brazil's Science Mobility or "Science Without Borders" Program, an initiative of the Brazilian government to provide scholarships to Brazilian undergraduate students for one year of study at colleges and universities in the United States

Scholarships are given primarily to students in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. Students in the program will return to Brazil to complete their degrees. Nine Illinois colleges/universities already qualify for Science without Borders.

During his visit today, Governor Quinn also announced that officials with the University of Illinois, Illinois Institute of Technology and DePaul University have entered into agreements with the Brazilian Federal Agency for Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education to promote educational, scientific and technological activity. The institutions will work together to facilitate undergraduate and graduate exchange programs where students will study at their home and visiting schools. The agreement also opens the door to joint research opportunities.

For updates on Governor Quinn's trip, visit www.Illinois.gov or follow him on Twitter at @GovernorQuinn. More information about Illinois trade and business opportunities can be found on the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's website at www.illinoisbiz.biz.

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25 Sep 2012

Family Museum to Host VIP Opening for Phase I of $1.2 Million Renovation

By Elly Gerdts

Bettendorf – On Friday, October 12, 2012, from 5:30-7:00 pm, the Family Museum will host a grand opening of the River and Bridges gallery for Family Museum members and VIP guests. This invitation-only event celebrates the completion of Phase I of a $1.2 million renovation. Media outlets are welcome to attend.

Phase I (of three) includes a 28 foot indoor waterplay table which resembles an actual stretch of the Mississippi River and allows guests to add obstacles and raise or lower water levels as they watch their boat make the journey down the river. Visitors will play on three new bridge structures designed to look and feel like the I-74 Bridge, the Arsenal Bridge, and the Centennial Bridge. The gallery brings the bridges of the Quad Cities into the Family Museum and puts children and families into, onto, and over these magnificent structures. Through sounds, games, and hands-on building materials, these bridges become accessible to people of all ages. Various stations throughout the gallery include a bridge art table, a bridge building area, a wooden train track, and an interactive crane. Clouds, geese flying in the sky, and hand-painted river murals spanning two walls surround guests and make the experience truly breathtaking.

This Family Museum renovation has been made possible through the generosity of the following organizations: City of Bettendorf, Scott County Board of Supervisors, State of Iowa - Vision Iowa CAT Grant, Hubbell-Waterman Foundation, Alcoa Foundation, Scott County Regional Authority, Riverboat Development Authority, Modern Woodmen of America, Dorothea LeClair Bequest, Family Museum Foundation, Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, 3M Foundation, Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust, and Grainger.

Phase II is scheduled to begin January 2, 2013.

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25 Sep 2012

Braley Announces Nearly $100,000 to Combat Medicare Fraud in Iowa

By Amanda Bowman

Waterloo, IA - Today, Representative Bruce Braley (IA-01) announced that the Hawkeye Valley Area Agency on Aging, Inc. has been awarded $99,957 from the U.S. Health and Human Services' Administration on Aging's Senior Medical Patrol Capacity Building Grant. The agency is located in Waterloo.

"Protecting Iowa seniors from fraudulent claims and inaccurate information is important to ensuring Medicare funds are going to the right people, at the right amount," Braley said. "These funds will go towards educating seniors and helping Iowans protect themselves from fraud."

The grant will assist the agency in helping Iowa seniors combat Medicare fraud by recruiting and training retired professionals and other senior citizens about how to recognize and report instances or patterns of health care fraud. The knowledge helps them to protect themselves from the economic and health-related consequences of Medicare and Medicaid fraud, error and abuse.

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25 Sep 2012

Quad Cities Comic Book Convention Oct 7

By Alan Morton
The Quad Cities Comic Book Convention will be held on a special Sunday date October 7 at the Ramada Inn in Bettendorf, IA. The Ramada Inn is located at3020 Utica Rd (I-74 @ Kimberly Rd / Spruce Hills Dr, IA Exit 2). It will be three states specializing in comic books new and old, toys and related. Or if you have comics lying around that you no longer want bring them by dealers are buying. For further information contact Alan at (309) 657-1599 or visit www.epguides.com/comics.
25 Sep 2012

Lt. Governor Simon to discuss government, leadership during social media town hall

By Kara Beach

CHICAGO - Participating in a social media town hall, Lt. Governor Sheila Simon will field questions this evening on government, leadership, and the importance of female mentorship. Simon's discussion, "Policies That Help Women and Girls - and the Consequences When They Don't," is the third in a series of social media town halls hosted by the Chicago Foundation for Women.

 

"There is no shortage of women and girls looking to take the next step and lead," said Simon, a mother of two and former professor and prosecutor. "It's our responsibility to reach out and help the next generation find its path to success."

 

This is the third and final town hall presented by the Chicago Foundation for Women leading up to its 27th Annual Luncheon on Thursday. Attendees of the luncheon will include all three town hall guests: Simon, Katrina Markoff, CEO and founder of Vosges Haut-Chocolat, and Cheryle Jackson, vice president of government affairs and corporate development of AAR Corp. Anita Hill, professor of law, social policy and women's studies at Brandeis University, will serve as the luncheon's keynote speaker.

 

Social Media Town Hall

DATE: Tuesday, September 25

TIME: 6:30 p.m.

PLACE: Social media users can submit questions at www.facebook.com/SheilaSimonIL or on Twitter using the #27ALCFW hashtag.

 

27th Annual Chicago Foundation for Women luncheon 

DATE: Thursday, September 27

TIME: 11:30 a.m.

PLACE: Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

 

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25 Sep 2012

Leading Historian of African American Photography to speak at the Figge

By Susan Horan

Davenport, IOWA (September 2012) On Thursday, September 27 at 7pm Posing Beauty in African American Culture curator Dr. Deborah Willis will speak at the Figge. Dr. Willis will talk about the contested ways in which African and African American beauty have been represented in historical and contemporary contexts through a range of media including photography, film, video, fashion, advertising and other forms of popular culture such as music and the Internet. The lecture will explore contemporary understandings of beauty by framing the notion of aesthetics, race, class and gender within art, popular culture and political contexts.

Deborah Willis, PhD, is chair and professor of photography and imaging at Tisch School of the Arts, New York University, where she also has an affiliated appointment with the College of Arts and Sciences, Africana Studies. Willis, a 2000 McArthur Fellow, is one of the nation's leading historians of African American photography and curator of African American culture. Her most recent works are Posing Beauty-African American Images from the 1890s to the Present; Michelle Obama, The First Lady in Photographs; and Black Venus 2010: They Called Her 'Hottentot' (editor).

Prior to the 7pm lecture an exhibition reception will be held. Refreshments will be served and a cash bar will be available from 5:30pm to 7pm. Both the reception and lecture are free with membership or paid admission.

About Posing Beauty in African American Culture 

Posing Beauty in African American Culture explores the contested ways in which African and African American beauty have been represented in historical and contemporary contexts through diverse media including photography, film, video, fashion, advertising and other forms of popular culture such as music and the Internet. Throughout the Western history of art and image-making, the relationship between beauty and art has become increasingly complex within contemporary art and popular culture.

The images in this exhibition challenge idealized forms of beauty in art by examining their portrayal and exploring a variety of attitudes about race, class, gender, popular culture and politics as seen through the aesthetics of representation.

Posing Beauty in African American Culture is sponsored by the Riverboat Development Authority, Hunt and Diane Harris and Dr. Ralph and Jennifer Saintfort.

About the Figge Art Museum

The Figge Art Museum is located on the riverfront in downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and Sundays 12-5 p.m.  Thursdays the museum is open until 9pm. Admission to the museum and tour is $7. Admission is free to Figge members and institutional members. To contact the museum, please call 563.326.7804, or visit our website, www.figgeartmuseum.org.

-end-
25 Sep 2012

Secretary Vilsack Announces Soybean Board Appointments

By USDA Office of Communications

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced the appointment of 16 members to the United Soybean Board.

"These appointees represent a cross section of the soybean industry and I am confident that they will serve the soybean producers well," said Vilsack.

Appointed Soybean Board members are as follows: James H. Carroll, III, Arkansas; Walter L. Godwin, Georgia; David P. Hartke, Illinois; Mark A. Seib, Indiana; Laura L. Foell, Iowa; Dennis R. Clark, Kentucky; Raymond S. Schexnayder, Jr., Louisiana; James A. Call, Minnesota; Todd A. Gibson, Missouri; Mark Caspers, Nebraska; Morris L. Shambley, North Carolina; Jay M. Myers, North Dakota; John B. Motter, Ohio; Jim Musser, Pennsylvania; David G. Iverson, South Dakota; and Robert W. White, Jr., Virginia.

The 69-member board is authorized by the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act. The Secretary selected the appointees from soybean producers nominated by Qualified State Soybean Boards. All appointees will serve 3-year terms beginning December 2012.

Research and promotion programs are industry-funded, authorized by Congress, and date back to 1966, when Congress passed the Cotton Research and Promotion Act. Since then, Congress has authorized the establishment of 20 research and promotion boards. They empower farmers and ranchers to leverage their own resources to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets, and conduct important research and promotion activities. AMS provides oversight, paid for by industry assessments, which ensures fiscal responsibility, program efficiency and fair treatment of participating stakeholders.

#

25 Sep 2012

The 50 State Fish and Wildlife Agencies Honor Bass Pro Founder, Johnny Morris, as Its Citizen Conservationist of the Year

By Laura MacLean

The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies' dedicates new Johnny Morris Award in
his honor to recognize lifetime commitment to natural resource stewardship

WASHINGTON, DC (September 25, 2012) ? The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA), which represents North America's fish and wildlife agencies, has bestowed its inaugural Johnny Morris Award to its namesake, Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, in recognition of his lifetime of service to the cause of fish and wildlife conservation. AFWA presented the award to Mr. Morris on September 10, 2012 during a luncheon ceremony as part of the Association's annual meeting in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

The new award will be conferred annually to a citizen conservationist who exemplifies Mr. Morris' extraordinary leadership at the highest level and steadfast commitment to solving large-scale natural resource challenges.

"Johnny Morris is the epitome of the enlightened, able and progressive citizen conservationist who sees beyond the limits of one hometown or one state to the national or international scale, and works accordingly and effectively to produce results," said Dr. Jonathan Gassett, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and former AFWA President who created the award. "The Association dedicates the Johnny Morris award in his honor, not only because of his passion for the outdoors, but specifically because his actions show that he is one of us."

Mr. Morris related that he was absolutely surprised and humbled to receive the inaugural Citizen Conservation award from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. "There can be no higher honor than having your name as part of an award that will recognize citizen conservation on a national and global scale each year," Johnny stated.  This award is especially meaningful to me as the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies is the front line for protecting America's precious fish and wildlife resources and implementing the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.  "I proudly share this recognition with my fellow team members at Bass Pro Shops.  They fully recognize the future of our outdoor industry and the sports we love depend, more than anything else, on how we manage our natural resources and conservation," Johnny continued.

John L. Morris developed a love of the outdoors at early age while fishing with his father. He started in the early 1970's with a U-Haul trailer full of the newest bass tackle and eight feet of sales space in his father's liquor store in Springfield, Missouri. Since then, Bass Pro Shops has become what Sporting Goods Business magazine named the #1 Outdoor Retailer in America. More than 100 million shoppers annually visit one of the company's 58 destination outdoor retail stores across the U.S. and Canada.

Through all his success, Mr. Morris has remained an ardent conservationist and is the recipient of numerous honors including the Teddy Roosevelt Conservationist Award, the International Conservation Achievement Award and AFWA's "President's Award" in 1996. He was inducted into the International Game Fish Association's Hall of Fame in 2005 and served three terms as chairman of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Nominations for the Johnny Morris Award for citizen conservationist of the year will be solicited in early 2013. A state director member of AFWA must submit nominations. More information will be available on www.fishwildlife.org.

The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies?the organization that represents North America's fish and wildlife agencies?promotes sound resource management and conservation, and speaks on important fish and wildlife issues. Found on the web at www.fishwildlife.org, on Facebook /AssociationofFishandWildlifeAgencies and on Twitter @fishwildlife.

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