23 Dec 2011

Amica Insurance offers accident checklist for the holidays

By Amy Duquette

LINCOLN, RI   Dec. 20, 2011 - If you're traveling for the holidays, please drive safely. But if an accident occurs, remember Amica Insurance offers a handy accident checklist on Amica.com and on the Amica mobile app for most smartphones.

"We hope everyone makes it to their holiday parties safely," said Lisa St. Onge, an assistant vice president with Amica. "But accidents do happen, even on those last-minute trips to the mall, so it's important to be prepared. That's why we have an Auto Accident Checklist, with a list of what to do - and not do - if you're involved in an accident. We hope you never have to use it. But, just in case, you may want to print a copy to keep with your vehicle or download the Amica mobile app so you'll have it on your phone."

Amica Insurance Auto Accident Checklist

If you are involved in an accident

• Remain calm and clearheaded.
• Turn on your hazard lights.
• If safe to do so, move your vehicle away from traffic.
• Do not discuss who is at fault or your insurance limits.
• Do not leave the scene of the accident.

Contact emergency personnel

• If anyone is injured, call 911 for medical assistance.
• Do not move an injured person.
• Give police your version of what happened.
• Obtain the police officer's name, department and incident number.

Exchange information

• Vehicle owner's name, address, telephone and/or email address
• Insurance information (company and policy number)
• Other vehicle information (year, make, model and registration plate)
• Driver's name, address, telephone and/or email address (if different from the vehicle owner's information)
• Obtain contact information from passengers and/or witnesses.
• Note the accident location.

Take photos/video if safe to do so

• Accident scene
• Traffic controls
• Street names
• Road conditions
• Vehicles and other property damage

"Also, remember to buckle up, pay attention and stay fresh and alert when driving," St. Onge said. "And, if you're going to a party or event where alcohol will be served, make sure there is a designated driver."

With so many people on the roads and so many holiday parties, motorists need to be extra vigilant this time of year, St.Onge said. We hope everyone has a safe, happy holiday season.

About Amica Mutual Insurance
Amica Mutual Insurance Company, the nation's oldest mutual insurer of automobiles, was founded in 1907. The company, with corporate headquarters in Lincoln, RI, is a national writer of automobile, homeowners, marine and personal umbrella liability insurance. Life coverage is available through Amica Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary. Amica employs more than 3,200 people in 40 offices across the country.

23 Dec 2011

POLICY MEMO: Extending the Middle Class Tax Cut

By Jeff Giertz

There is significant confusion surrounding the recent debate on the extension of the payroll tax cut, extension of unemployment insurance and preventing the pending cut to physician Medicare reimbursement rates.  These three issues are urgent. They will impact millions of middle class families, unemployed Americans and Medicare patients. The deadline for action on all three is January 2012.

 

The Details:

 

  • Extension of Payroll Tax Holiday

 

o   Currently, employees pay a payroll tax of 4.2% of their income to Social Security, on wages earned up to $106,800.

o   On January 1, 2012, if Congress does not pass an extension of the "Holiday," then the payroll tax will revert back to previous law, which is a 6.2% tax on those same wages

o   This equates to a 2% tax increase, if Congress fails to extend the Payroll Tax Holiday.

o   This tax impacts 160 million Americans nationwide.  For an Iowan making $50,000 per year, this equates to a $1,000 tax increase.

 

  • Unemployment Insurance

 

o   Congress must reauthorize provisions that maintain long-term unemployment benefits for laid-off workers.  These provisions will begin to expire on January 3, 2012 if Congress does not pass an extension.

o   Currently, states provide up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits, so those who will be harmed by the expiration of the federal provisions are the long-term unemployed (ie, those unemployed for longer than 26 weeks).

o   Without Congressional action, approximately 6,600 Iowans will lose their long-term unemployment benefits.

 

  • Medicare Reimbursements to Doctors

 

o   If Congress does not act, a scheduled 27% cut in Medicare reimbursements will occur on January 1, 2012, due to the flawed Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) in the Medicare formula.  This means that every time a doctor sees a Medicare patient, the doctor would receive 27% less in his Medicare reimbursement.

o   This could harm Medicare patients' (seniors) access to care, if doctors no longer find it cost-effective to accept Medicare patients.

 

 

The Votes:

 

Ignoring the rhetoric and partisan positioning on both sides of the aisle, there have been two substantive votes in the House of Representatives to resolve these three urgent issues.

 

  • Vote "On Passage" of HR 3630, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011 (called "the House GOP bill"), on Tuesday, December 13, 2011

o   Braley crosses party lines and supports.  Only 10 Democrats supported.

o   The Senate did not allow a vote on this bill.

o   This vote would do the following:

§  Extend for one year, until December 31, 2012, the Payroll Tax Holiday

§  Extend for 13 months, until January 31, 2013, the long-term unemployment benefits provisions

§  Prevents any reduction in the SGR for 2 years, through January 1, 2014.  Instead, gives a 1% increase in Medicare reimbursement rates.

 

  • Vote on "Motion that the House Disagree to the Senate Amendments" on HR 3630, the Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act of 2011 (called "the Senate bipartisan bill"), on Tuesday, December 20, 2011

o   Braley supports the Senate Bill, by voting "nay" on the Motion to Disagree.

o   The Senate bill died in the House when this Motion to Disagree passed 229-193.

o   This bill had earlier been Agreed to in the Senate by a vote of 89-10

o   This vote would do the following:

§  Extend for 2 months, through February 29, 2012, the Payroll Tax Holiday

§  Extend for 2 months, through March 6, 2012, the long-term unemployment benefits provisions

§  Prevents for 2 months, through February 29, 2012, the 27% cut to Medicare reimbursement rates.

 

Both of these votes would prevent the damage from occurring in January if passed into law:

 

  • Prevent a tax increase to 160 million Americans.
  • Prevent 6,600 Iowans from losing unemployment benefits.
  • Prevent Iowa doctors from seeing a cut of 27% in their Medicare reimbursement rates.

 

Rep. Braley is 1 of only 14 to support BOTH SOLUTIONS:

 

Of the 535 members of  both the House and the Senate, Rep. Braley was 1 of only 14 to vote at every opportunity to extend the middle class tax cut and stop the loss of unemployment benefits and the 27% reduction to Iowa doctors.  He supported BOTH the House GOP's 1-year extension, and the Senate bipartisan 2-month extension.

 

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23 Dec 2011

Need to Lose Weight? Skip Calorie Counting & Burn Fat Instead

By Ginny Grimsley
Weight Loss Expert Offers Slimming Tips to Last a Lifetime

Losing weight has become a matter of life or death and counting calories, Weight Watcher points and fat grams hasn't lessened the numbers of people affected. In 2010, more than 25 percent of Americans had pre-diabetes and another 1.9 million got a diabetes diagnosis, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The single most effective way for people to avoid the disease? Losing weight.

"The current obesity epidemic proves that the typical low-fat diet recommendations and low-calorie diets have not worked," says Don Ochs, inventor of Mobanu Integrated Weight Loss Solution (www.Mobanu.com), a physician-recommended system that tailors diet and exercise to an individual's fat-burning chemistry. "America is eating less fat per capita than we did 30 years ago, yet obesity, diabetes and heart disease are all up."

To drop the weight and keep it off, people need to get rid of their stored fat by eating fewer processed carbohydrates and the correct amount of protein, and by doing both high and low- intensity exercises, Ochs says.

Here are some of his suggestions for getting started:

  • Eat what your ancestors ate - if it wasn't available 10,000 years ago, you don't need it now. Our bodies haven't had time to adapt to the huge increase in processed carbohydrates over the past 100 years. These refined carbs kick up our blood sugar levels, which triggers insulin production, which results in fat storage. Avoid the regular no-no's such as candy and soft drinks, but also stay away from sneaky, sugary condiments like ketchup; dried fruits, which have more concentrated sugar than their hydrated counterparts, and anything with high fructose corn syrup.

  • Eat the right kind of fat - it's good for you! Bad fats include trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils. Look for these on labels. Trim excess fat from meats and stick with mono- and poly-unsaturated fats. Use olive oil for cooking, as salad dressing or on vegetables. Eat avocados, whole olives, nuts and seeds, and don't be afraid to jazz up meals with a little butter or cheese.

  • Eat the proper amount of lean protein to maintain muscle mass and increase your metabolism. Eggs, beef, chicken, pork, seafood and dairy in the right amounts are good protein sources. Remember, most of these contain fat, so it shouldn't be necessary to add more. Use the minimum amount needed to satisfy your taste buds. Also, anyone trying to lose weight should limit non-animal proteins, such as legumes, because they contribute to higher blood sugar levels and increased fat storage.

  • Vary your workouts to speed up fat loss. Both high-intensity and low-intensity exercises play a role in maximum fat loss. Low-intensity exercise, like walking, is effective for reducing insulin resistance so you store less fat. Alternate walking with high-intensity interval training to build lean muscle mass and increase your metabolism. Interval training can be cardio blasts such as running up stairs on some days and lifting weights on others. This type of exercise forces your body to burn up its glycogen - a readily accessible fuel for your muscles - faster than an equivalent amount of cardio exercise. When you're done, your body will replenish that fuel by converting stored fat back into glycogen and you'll lose weight.

"Healthy weight loss isn't about picking a popular diet and trying to stick to it," Ochs says. "It's about discovering the right diet for your unique body. For each person, the optimal amount of carbohydrates, proteins and exercise to burn the most stored body fat will be different. And that's why one-size-fits-all diets just don't work."

About Donald Ochs

Donald Ochs is a Colorado entrepreneur, the president and CEO of Ochs Development Co. and M4 Group, an inventor and sports enthusiast. He developed the Mobanu weight loss system based on research conducted at The Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health. The program is endorsed by physicians, nutritionists and exercise experts.

23 Dec 2011

DAVENPORT MAN WINS $30,000 LOTTERY PRIZE

By Iowa Lottery

Justin Titus Wins Top Prize Playing "Merry Crossword" Holiday Scratch Game

 

 

DES MOINES, Iowa - A Davenport man won a top prize of $30,000 playing the lottery's "Merry Crossword" instant-scratch game.

Justin Titus claimed his prize Monday at the Iowa Lottery's regional office in Cedar Rapids. He purchased his winning ticket at Slagle Foods, 6723 Northwest Blvd. in Davenport.

Merry Crossword is a $3 scratch game. Players win a prize by uncovering at least three complete words in the ticket's puzzle. If a player uncovers 10 words, he/she wins $30,000. The overall odds of winning in the game are 1 in 3.82.

Four top prizes of $30,000 are still up for grabs in Merry Crossword as well as 10 prizes of $3,000, 138 prizes of $300 and more than 600 prizes of $100.

Players can "Super Tech" the Halls in the Iowa Lottery's Super Tech promotion this holiday season. All 10 holiday instant-scratch tickets can be entered online for a chance to win one of 250 Sony® tech prizes or one of six "Super Prizes" valued at more than $4,900 each. The eligible tickets are: "Holiday Countdown," "Holiday Bonus Crossword," "Merry Crossword," "Lucky Elves Bingo," "Holiday Wishes," "Sparkling Winnings," "Betty Boop™," "Snow Bank," "Santa Games Doubler" and "Winter Bucks." To participate in Super Tech, a player must register for a free Iowa Lottery VIP Club account at ialottery.com. Registration is a one-time process. All holiday tickets entered into Super Tech will also earn players "Points For Prizes™" points that can be used in the Iowa Lottery's online store.

Since the lottery's start in 1985, its players have won more than $2.8 billion in prizes while the lottery has raised more than $1.3 billion for the state programs that benefit all Iowans.

Today, lottery proceeds in Iowa have three main purposes: They provide support for veterans, help for a variety of significant projects through the state General Fund, and backing for the Vision Iowa program, which was implemented to create tourism destinations and community attractions in the state and build and repair schools.

 

© 2011 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. 

 

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23 Dec 2011

Global Population Continues to Increase—Are U.S. Farmers Ready?

By Rick Martin
Soybean Checkoff-Funded Initiatives Support Food Production for the Future

ST. LOUIS (December 20, 2011) - More than seven billion people inhabit planet Earth, and about two billion more will join within 40 years, according to the United Nations Population Division. While many decision makers express concern about sustaining the population, often they forget to ask an important Question: Are U.S. farmers ready to produce the food needed to feed the growing population?

The United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean checkoff has responded with a resounding 'yes,' by funding soybean production research designed to help U.S. farmers grow as much as possible with as few resources needed.

"Soybean farmers must stay in tune with what is going on in the United States in order to stay ahead of any problems, such as the growing population," said Jason Bean, a soybean farmer from Holcomb, Mo., and USB director. "Finding ways to figure out how to get everything out of our soybeans in order to have the best yield is crucial for success."

In order to stay ahead of the curve, much of the research USB funds focuses on creating new U.S. soybean varieties more resistant to the pressures from pests and diseases that decrease yield. "Every year, we do a major production research project in each region that allows us to figure out the No. 1 yield robber," says Bean. "Whether it is finding out how to resist pests, like aphids, stink bugs or soybean cyst nematodes, or determining drought tolerance, checkoff-funded research is intended to locate the problem, and then is shared with farmers across the United States."

To help get this research into farmers' hands, USB has established a program to help state soybean checkoff boards, land-grant universities and local extension service staff share checkoff-funded research results with those who need it most. To date, twelve states participate in the program.

But informing U.S. soybean farmers is only one part of the equation. Making sure consumers are informed about the process is important too, says Bean. 

USB is made up of 69 farmer-directors who oversee the investments of the soybean checkoff on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers. Checkoff funds are invested in the areas of animal utilization, human utilization, industrial utilization, industry relations, market access and supply. As stipulated in the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soybean checkoff.

For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit www.unitedsoybean.org
Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/UnitedSoybeanBoard
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/unitedsoy
View our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/UnitedSoybeanBoard

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23 Dec 2011

Braley Statement on House Vote on Middle Class Tax Cut

By Jeff Giertz

House fails to pass 2-month compromise extension of payroll tax cut 

 

Washington, DC - Today, Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) released the following statement after the House rejected a bipartisan agreement to extend the middle class payroll tax cut:

"Extending the middle class tax cut that keeps $1,000 in the pocket of the average Iowa family is good for the economy and good for our country.

 

"Playing politics over this issue does nothing other than put families at risk of seeing their taxes go up on January 1st.

 

"That's why I supported the Republican plan to extend the middle class tax cut last week.  And it's why I just voted with 89 out of 100 Senators, including Senators Harkin and Grassley, on a bipartisan compromise to extend the middle class tax cut.  This issue shouldn't be about Republicans or Democrats.  It's good for Iowa.  And Iowans need Congress to come together and finish the job."

 

Braley has voted in support of a middle class tax cut extension every time the issue has come up in the House for a vote.

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23 Dec 2011

News from the Ron Paul Campaign

By Gary Howard
Ron Paul Campaign Releases New Pro-life Ad Featuring Some of His Former Patients
Women patients attest to Dr. Paul's character, professionalism and commitment to life
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign unveiled its new prolife ad "Always on the Right Path" featuring four former patients of Dr. Paul's medical practice in Brazoria County, Texas.

Dr. Paul, an Air Force flight surgeon and 12-term Congressman from Texas, is by trade an accomplished OB-GYN who personally delivered more than 4,000 babies.

The 60-second online ad will be shared via email and on websites with conservative, prolife, and values voter audiences beginning today.  It begins with a narrator describing Dr. Paul as a prolific doctor, a man of faith, and a man committed to protecting life.  However, the moving testimonials of his patients are what the ad features most prominently - and most effectively.

"Some people need to have a good word said about them.  Ron is the sort of person that his life is his good word," former patient Laura Mays offers in the ad.  "Ron did not let Washington change him," Ms. Mays later adds.

"He not only protects unborn life, but he also walks through journeys with women and he has for years," Kara Gore proclaims in the ad.

"It's not hard for someone who is a Christian and who truly believes to stay on the right path, and I think that's what kind of person Ron Paul is," Diane Wilson declares in the ad.

"This ad is unequaled in its authenticity, and in its capacity to convey the message that not only is Ron Paul the Champion of the Constitution, he is also a champion of life with particular emphasis on the unborn," said Ron Paul 2012 National Campaign Chairman Jesse Benton.  "This is a clear case of credible subject matter serving as its own convincing message."

To view the online ad click here.

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Ron Paul Endorsed by Nationally Syndicated Radio Talk Show Host Jerry Doyle
Radio host, actor and philanthropist talks up Paul
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign announced today that nationally-syndicated radio talk show host Jerry Doyle has endorsed Ron Paul for the presidency.

"In many areas of the country including in some key early voting states, Jerry Doyle is a household name, discussing current events but also energizing and entertaining audiences.  We appreciate the support Jerry Doyle gives Ron Paul as it contributes to the likelihood of a strong showing in the first few voting contests where Ron Paul is competitive," said Ron Paul 2012 National Campaign Chairman Jesse Benton.

"The Jerry Doyle Show" is a nationally-syndicated talk radio program with a heavy finance component in addition to politics, pop culture, and current events, with elements of satire and biting social commentary.  It is the sixth largest show in the country with more than 200 affiliates and 3.75 million weekly listeners, according to Talkers Magazine.  The show airs live Monday through Friday from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. PST with select markets airing the show at various times.  Check your local listings by clicking here.

Jerry Doyle is an experienced pilot, investment banker, actor, and the voice of numerous national advertising campaigns.  He is the author of Have You Seen My Country Lately - America's Wake-up Call, published in 2009 by Simon & Schuster.  Mr. Doyle also is an Honorary Naval Aviator and F-16 Test Pilot, and a Distinguished Supporter of the U.S. Space Program.

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Ron Paul Endorsed by Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Clinton
Rev. John Preus of Clinton County calls Dr. Paul a "Republican who consistently articulates conservative stances on every issue he faces."
ANKENY, Iowa - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign announced today that the Rev. John Preus, Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Clinton, Iowa, has endorsed Ron Paul for the presidency.

Below please find the full statement of support from Rev. Preus:

"My name is Rev. John Preus.  I am the pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Clinton, Iowa.  We are a conservative congregation, and I am a conservative pastor.  Our doctrine has not morphed over time, and neither have our positions on issues of morality with which our country and culture are currently wrestling.  As a pastor, it is not my job to endorse political candidates, and so I won't.  It's my job to preach the word of God, and I do. 

"But as an American and as a Christian, it is my job to support and promote good government and faithful rulers.  What a delight for me it has been to find a candidate like Ron Paul.  He is a true blue Republican who consistently articulates conservative stances on every issue he faces. 

"Some have suggested that perhaps he is weak on such issues as homosexual marriage, or a federal amendment against abortion.  But this is not so.  Ron Paul has not hidden his convictions that support life at conception and fidelity between man and woman within marriage.  He is quite open about what he believes.  But he also understands, as I do, that if this nation of ours will see a moral and political reversal, it must happen in our families and communities, and not be dictated from the top of some bureaucracy. 

"It is our job as conservatives and as Americans to effect such change, but we need the freedom to do so.  It is, therefore, the job of our President to abide by our Constitution and to defend our liberties so that such change can be effected by those in a position to do so.  That is why I support Ron Paul for President proudly and with a clear conscience, knowing that if this great land is to be restored to her first principles of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, the rule of law must be firmly upheld.  Ron Paul will do this."

Ron Paul 2012 Iowa Chairman Drew Ivers welcomed the endorsement, saying, "Rev. Preus's endorsement and those of others adds to an atmosphere conducive to a strong top-three showing in the January caucuses."

In making the endorsement, Rev. Preus mentioned that he was not speaking on behalf of Trinity Lutheran congregants, but rather he was doing so "as an American, and as a Christian."

Mike Heath, Iowa State Director for the Ron Paul 2012 campaign, is visiting Christian churches across Iowa to do outreach and discuss Ron Paul's candidacy.  To date, Heath has visited 256 houses of worship across the state toward that end.  Heath is an ordained Christian minister.

If ministering in Iowa, local pastors interested in discussing an endorsement are invited to email the Iowa Director of Voter Outreach, Meghann Walker, at meghannw@ronpaul2012.com.

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Ron Paul Iowa Team Touts New 'Small Businesses for Ron Paul'
Latest Main Street owner-operators are based in Dallas, Davis, Polk and Story counties
ANKENY, Iowa - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign announced today new members of its active 'Small Businesses for Ron Paul' nationwide coalition.  New members hail from Dallas, Davis, Polk, and Story counties, all Iowa.

Below are the statements of new coalition members who agree with Dr. Paul's position that restoring free markets is the best way to revitalize Main Street and encourage job creation.

Monty Button, who has owned Adel Tree Company for 21 years, employs several persons and says of the 12-term Congressman from Texas, "I have been very impressed with Ron Paul's consistently conservative voting record.  He is a true statesman, a rarity today, closely resembling the caliber of the founders and their original intent.  America needs the constitutional leadership Ron Paul offers."

Since 2003, Mark Davenport has operated Davencorp Welding & Fabrication, a company that serves the Bloomfield area and employs 21 people.  He said, "I feel Ron Paul has demonstrated foresight in what is required to cure our economy and other issues that ail our country.  Dr. Paul appears adeptly immune to the 'political correctness' that has plagued our nation for too many years." 

"Ron Paul's many years as a lawmaker has forged the temper of a man needed to make and carry through with the difficult tasks that will be essential of our next President.  As a nation, we need to regain our post as not only an economic leader, but one of global integrity," added Mr. Davenport.

LaFleur Chiropractic owner Ben LaFleur has been in business for four years and employs two persons.  He stated, "I have become very concerned with our current economic status and the overall future of the United States.  As more and more people become unemployed and uninsured, we have arrived at a place where the priorities of government have become skewed.  We need a president that speaks for the people and represents the principles this country was built on.  His name is Ron Paul, and he is the answer for the 2012 presidential election."

Eric Riedinger has owned his sign business 'Attention Signs' for several years.  He offered his take on the congressman's readiness to make the tough but necessary decision:  "Ron Paul realizes our need to get realistic with our debt issues.  He is willing to take bold steps to turn things around for our country.  Dr. Paul will straighten this country out and get us back on track."

Ryan Kirk, owner of an Ames-area IT business startup explains, "As an entrepreneurial individual, I feel like small businesses already have enough hoops to jump through.  What's worse is that the number of hoops seems to increase every year as new laws and policies are created to the benefit of large companies, thwarting competition.  Ron Paul promises change for America that is more than just acquiescent lip service.  As a small business owner, I support Ron Paul because of his clear foresight on issues such as reducing big government, reigning in the Federal Reserve, Right-to-Work, and pro growth tax reform."

As a first basic step, those interested in joining the "Small Businesses for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition should visit the official page here.  Those residing in Iowa should email Iowa Voter Outreach Director Meghann Walker at meghannw@ronpaul2012.com.

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23 Dec 2011

This Holiday Season Sign-up for the Conservation Stewardship Program

By Elisha Smith

By Traci Bruckner, tracib@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs

Farmers and ranchers that want to participate in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) this year have less than a month to apply at their local Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office. The CSP rewards farmers, ranchers, and foresters for maintaining existing conservation practices and for adopting additional practices on cropland, grassland, non-industrial private forestland and tribal lands. This program pays producers for fostering clean water, better soil management, improved habitat, energy efficiency, and other natural resource benefits.

The CSP is a continuous sign-up program that has periodic cut-off dates for ranking applications. The USDA recently announced that January 13, 2012 is the deadline for this year.  Applications can be filed at your local NRCS office (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/about/organization/regions.html). The Center for Rural Affairs is also encouraging farmers and ranchers to call the Center's Farm Bill Helpline to help us learn more about how the program and application process are working and any possible barriers farmers and ranchers may encounter during the sign-up.  Potential CSP applicants can call the Farm Bill Helpline at (402) 687-2100 or send an email to tracib@cfra.org.  The Center for Rural Affairs also has a CSP fact sheet available online at http://www.cfra.org/renewrural/csp.

 

CSP is one of the most popular conservation programs, with many more applicants than the program can fund each year. In 2010 alone, 1,480 Iowa farmers received a CSP contract, about 62% of the total applicant pool that year. Those interested in applying should contact their local NRCS office as soon as possible to meet the deadline.

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23 Dec 2011

Quinn signs budget bill to keep facilities open

By Rich Morthland

Rep. Morthland: "I voted to keep Dixon's Jack Mabley Center open..."

 

Moline, IL...Today, December 20, 2011, Governor Pat Quinn signed into law the state budget reallocation bill, Senate Bill 2412. State Representative Rich Morthland (Cordova-R), voted for the budget reallocation bill to keep the Dixon Jack Mabley Developmental Center open, along with other facilities that Governor Quinn had threatened to close.

 

"When I attended the facility closure hearing in Dixon, I had the opportunity to listen to the victims of Governor Quinn's Blagojevich-style budgeting methods," Rep. Morthland said. "My colleagues and I quickly assembled legislation that would reallocate funds in the budget to keep State facilities open for the developmentally disabled, our most vulnerable citizens."

 

"I commend the Governor for signing our efforts into law," Morthland added. "I voted to keep Dixon's Jack Mabley Center open with responsible budgeting methods, not revenue increases."

 

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23 Dec 2011

HARKIN ANNOUNCES ACADEMY NOMINATIONS FOR 42 IOWA STUDENTS

By Sen. Tom Harkin
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today nominated 42 Iowa students for appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Merchant Marine Academy and Military Academy, West Point for the 2012 classes.  

"I would like to congratulate these students for their many outstanding achievements," Harkin said. "An academy nomination is a great honor because of the intense competition for these nominations across the state of Iowa."

In a typical year, Harkin receives more than 150 applications from young Iowans interested in pursuing a career as a military officer.   Students apply for admission to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado; or the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.

Academy nomination finalists are interviewed by Senator Harkin's Academy Selection Board, during which time their motivation, poise and self-expression are measured.  Harkin may nominate up to ten applicants to compete for each available vacancy.  From the Senator's nominees, the academy then selects the final candidate who will be offered an appointment.  

"In order for an individual to be nominated, he or she must demonstrate superior leadership, academic and athletic abilities," Harkin said.  "Nominees also must exhibit the necessary motivation for serving in the demanding role of a career military officer and be of outstanding moral character."  

After March 1, 2012, men and women between the ages of 17 and 22 who are interested in pursuing a nomination to one of the academies for the class entering in 2013, should go to http://harkin.senate.gov/ and complete Senator Harkin's online Service Academy application, or they may contact Senator Harkin's Cedar Rapids Office at (319) 365-4504.  

A list of this year's nominees is below.


Afton
Austin Bolinger has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Austin is the son of Amanda and Clint Bolinger and is a senior at Creston High School.

Ainsworth
Jesse Hahn has been nominated to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Jesse is the son of Teresa and Ted Hahn and is a senior at Highland Community High School.

Ankeny
Brett Deters has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Brett is the son of Karen Deters and Victor Vera and is a senior at Ankeny High School.

Ankeny
Logan Braadt has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Logan is the son of Kathy Amos and Walter Braadt and is a senior at Ankeny High School.

Argle
Richard Wilkerson has been nominated to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Richard is the son of Stephanie Anderson and Randy Wilkerson and is a senior at Central Lee High School.

Bellevue
Dylan Meek has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Dylan is the son of Tracy Meek and Phillip Meek and is a senior at Bellevue High School.

Bettendorf
Samuel Kuznetsov has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Samuel is the son of Danielle and Alexei Kusnetsov and is a senior at Bettendorf High School.

Bettendorf
Andrew Peterman has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Andrew is the son of George Peterman and Carolyn and a graduate of Bettendorf High School.  He is currently attending Greystone Preparatory School in Kerrville, TX.

Bettendorf
Matthew Miller has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Matthew is the son of Kathryn and Marc Miller and is a senior at Bettendorf High School.

Cedar Falls
Ryan Giarusso has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Ryan is the son of Deborah and Richard Giarusso and is a senior at Cedar Falls High School.

Cedar Falls
Nicholas Heth has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Nicholas is the son of Carol and Steve Heth and is a senior at Cedar Falls High School.

Clarion
Wyatt Sann has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Wyatt is the son of Patricia Stockman-Sann and Dwight Sann and is a senior at Clarion Goldfield High School.

Clinton
Matt Truninger has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Matt is the son of Gina and Mark Truninger and is a senior at Northeast High School.

Clive
Stephen Sanburn has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Stephen is the son of Lisa and Daniel Sanburn and is a senior at Waukee High School.

Clive
Jack Oberman has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Jack is the son of Karen and Tony Oberman and is a senior at Waukee High School.

Davenport
Daniel Sullivan has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Daniel is the son of Jane and Richard Sullivan and is a senior at Bettendorf High School.

Davenport
Noah Jones has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Noah is the son of Julie and Todd Jones and is a senior at West High School.

Dubuque
Daniel Eichman has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Daniel is the son of Choon and Bruce Eichman and is a graduate of Dulwich College - Bejing High School.

Dunkerton
Daniel Rigdon has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Daniel is the son of Bommoe Sadler and Daniel Rigdon and is a senior at Dunkerton High School.

Earlham
Aloysius Tekippe has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Aloysius is the son of Krista and Ronald Tekippe and is a senior at Earlham High School.

Glidden
Daniel Van Horn has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Daniel is the son of Cynthia and John Van Horn and is a senior at Gidden Ralston High School.

Granville
Collin Ascherl has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Collin is the son of Donna and Joe Ascherl and is a senior at MOC-Floyd Valley High School.

Grimes
Nathaniel Dyett has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Nathaniel is the son of Laura and Jaswick Dyett and is a senior at Johnston High School.

Hamburg
Colby McGinley has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Colby is the son of Sarah McGinley and Rodney McGinley and is a senior at Lourdes Central High School.

Hinton
Matthew Veach has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Matthew is the son of Jeana and Gerald Veach and is a senior at Hinton High School.

Hornick
Hanna Hubert has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Hanna is the daughter of Carla and Joel Hubert and is a senior at Woodbury Central High School.

Hubbard
Felix Knutson has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Felix is the son of Danielle and Dallas Knutson and is home schooled.

Iowa City
Jindalae Suh has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Jindalae is the daughter of Laura Crow and DaeHong Suh and is a senior at City High School.

Maquoketa
Isaac Kinrade has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Isaac is the son of Julia and Steven Kinrade and is a senior at Maquoketa High School.

Marion
Justin Fenske has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Justin is the son of Linda and James Fenske and is a senior at Xavier High School.

Mason City
Travis Mallo has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Travis is the son of Wendy and Larry Mallo and is a senior at Mason City High School.

Mount Pleasant
Jackson Bell has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy and to the U.S. Naval Academy. Jackson is the son of Martha and Richard Bell and is a senior at Mt. Pleasant High School.

Norwalk
Alec La Velle has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. Alec is the son of Nancy and Michael La Velle and is a senior at Norwalk High School.

Oelwein
Sean Steil has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Sean is the son of Karla  and John Steil and is a senior at Wapsie Valley High School.

Orange City
William Guthmiller has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. William is the son of Tamara and Martin Guthmiller and is a senior at MOC -Floyd Valley High School.

Ottosen
Adam Wachholz has been nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Adam is the son of Cindi and James Wachholz and is home schooled.   

Paton
Chantel Blair has been nominated to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Chantel is the daughter of Jackie Blair and Ricky Price and is a senior at Jefferson-Scranton High School.

Sioux City
Tyler Reiser has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Tyler is the son of Lisa and Gene Reiser and is a senior at East High School.

Story City
Christopher Morgan has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Christopher is the son of Rose and Keith Morgan and is a senior at Roland- Story High School.

Tabor
James Saker has been nominated to the U.S. Miltary Academy. James is the son of Susan and Jamie Saker and is a senior at Fremont-Mills Sr. High School.

Waterloo
Andrew Foster has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Andrew is the son of Patricia and Craig Foster and is a graduate of West High School.  He is currently attending Ohio State University in Columbus Ohio.

West Des Moines
Haley Wireman has been nominated to the U.S. Naval Academy. Haley is the daughter of Joi and Richard Wireman and is a senior at Valley High School.

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